Even though a lot of herbal medicines have yet to be scientifically supported in the West, logic proves that people wouldn’t be using an herbal product for centuries if it didn’t work. A great deal of the herbs that we now recognize as having great health benefits were recently considered fairly exotic, a main one being Green Tea, which has just recently gone mainstream. It is predicted that this same event will occur with herbs from the Amazon basin, which is one of the most bountiful places on the planet. It has been explored and looked at for generations for “the next big thing,” which in most cases has already been in use for centuries. There are many energizing herbs that also have great antioxidant properties, which are also available to us here in the United States.
Maca root, which has been cultivated for at least 2000 years, is related to plants including radishes, mustard, and cabbage. It is cultivated by the Andean people in Peru, where it is found to contain a great deal of beneficial compounds that enhance overall health and vitality. Some strains of maca root have been cultivated in Incan sites since 1600 B.C. During early European colonization, maca root was used as a form of currency, similar to the way cocoa was used by the Aztecs. This plant thrives in high altitudes between 10,000 and 16,000 feet. It seems that the harsher the conditions, the better it grows, as efforts to grow the plant in Central Europe haven’t been successful as compared to its home turf in Peru. Maca root is a popular, nutrient-packed super food which is commonly powdered and mixed into drinks. Because maca root is a natural energizer, it has libido enhancing abilities, as well as many others. It acts as an adaptogen, being known as “Peruvian Ginseng” in South America. Maca root is most commonly recommended for boosting the immune system, menopause support, and hormonal balance in general. It is a great source of energy and for all-day endurance. The alkaloids found in maca root are partially responsible for maca’s energizing abilities and libido boost. Research has proven that the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) boosts energy and overall aphrodisiac abilities in both men and women. Maca root contains compounds called macamides and macaenes which have been scientifically proven to enhance energy, stamina, and sexual function. There are other reasons why maca root is such a great plant. One group of compounds, isothiocyanates, reduces the risk of breast and stomach cancer.
Guarana, loved for its mild stimulating effect, has many benefits. It is such a big part of the culture in Brazil that it actually out-sells Coca-cola in its soft-drink form. Similar to many other herbs, Guarana was used locally well before European settlement. This evergreen vine usually climbs fairly far up the Brazilian forest trees, its seed being the main part that gets used. It also contains powerful antioxidants including catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins that protect cells from destruction of free radicals and also give benefits to the body’s tissues and blood.
Catuaba, a common tree found in South America, contains many components known as alkaloids. These alkaloids are responsible for the mental boost that most people get when they take a catuaba-based supplement or mix. Catuaba bark can be a little bit confusing because there are many species using the same common name. Make sure to read labels carefully, as the one that results with the best luck is Erythroxylum catuaba.
Coffee Fruit, specifically the bright, red berry that is the seed of the coffee fruit, is often left behind in the process of making coffee. This is because it is too delicate to last long in the hot conditions necessary to make coffee. However, advances in technology have made the “coffee cherry” extract possible. This extract is not just another antioxidant. It also decreases tumor size and possibly even prevents their formation in the first place. The elements in coffee berry activate T-lymphocytes which shrink mammary tumors or simply put them on hold.
Muira Puama, which grows between 15 and 45 feet high and is native to the Amazon basin of Brazil, has been used for centuries for energy support. Some of its included components are beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and lupeol. Like other nervous system stimulants, muira puama has been researched lately for its ability to boost memory retrieval and protect brain tissue. This herb is also able to improve low libido and poor erectile function in men after only two weeks.
Acai berry, a traditional favorite food source for people in the Amazon, grows on a tall-growing palm and provides a rich source of anthocyanins, which are purple pigments that have extremely high antioxidant activity. Once the fruit is harvested, it decays rapidly. Therefore, special processing is necessary to make sure that all the nutrients of acai berry are included. Not only do these fruits fight against free radical damage, but they also help natural digestive enzymes and boost natural immune defenses. Current research is investigating the effects of acai berry on leukemia, as results have been very positive so far. When choosing a supplement, make sure to look for one that is organically-grown. The best companies employ local people to harvest acai so that they provide jobs and better lives for future generations to come.
Sustainability refers to a set of naturally occurring circumstances that ensure that all members of a situation are adequately nourished to promote their healthy continuance as well as practices in programs designed and implemented to keep natural systems healthy and flourishing. Many of these programs focus on environmental protection and preservation of traditional cultures. In the realm of medicinal plants, sustainable practices consist of organic agriculture, species management, fair trade, and benefit-sharing programs. To sum it up, sustainability pays people fair wages, puts resources back into the communities they came from, and ensure that the resources that benefit us all are going to stay around for a long time to come. It is an earth-friendly, people-friendly concept of commerce that is thankfully being put into effect all around the world.
Herbal supplements are a great way to boost energy, boost immune response, and boost libido when taken correctly. Always consult your health care provider for conditions such as loss of energy, chronic colds from low immune system, or no libido because symptoms like these are not normal to healthy individuals and need address by a processional. Great supplements like maca root, catuaba, muira puama, acai berry, and green tea can all be found at your local or internet health food store.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Exotic Herbal Powerhouses To Boost Libido, Memory And More
Even though a lot of herbal medicines have yet to be scientifically supported in the West, logic proves that people wouldn’t be using an herbal product for centuries if it didn’t work. A great deal of the herbs that we now recognize as having great health benefits were recently considered fairly exotic, a main one being Green Tea, which has just recently gone mainstream. It is predicted that this same event will occur with herbs from the Amazon basin, which is one of the most bountiful places on the planet. It has been explored and looked at for generations for “the next big thing,” which in most cases has already been in use for centuries. There are many energizing herbs that also have great antioxidant properties, which are also available to us here in the United States.
Maca root, which has been cultivated for at least 2000 years, is related to plants including radishes, mustard, and cabbage. It is cultivated by the Andean people in Peru, where it is found to contain a great deal of beneficial compounds that enhance overall health and vitality. Some strains of maca root have been cultivated in Incan sites since 1600 B.C. During early European colonization, maca root was used as a form of currency, similar to the way cocoa was used by the Aztecs. This plant thrives in high altitudes between 10,000 and 16,000 feet. It seems that the harsher the conditions, the better it grows, as efforts to grow the plant in Central Europe haven’t been successful as compared to its home turf in Peru. Maca root is a popular, nutrient-packed super food which is commonly powdered and mixed into drinks. Because maca root is a natural energizer, it has libido enhancing abilities, as well as many others. It acts as an adaptogen, being known as “Peruvian Ginseng” in South America. Maca root is most commonly recommended for boosting the immune system, menopause support, and hormonal balance in general. It is a great source of energy and for all-day endurance. The alkaloids found in maca root are partially responsible for maca’s energizing abilities and libido boost. Research has proven that the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) boosts energy and overall aphrodisiac abilities in both men and women. Maca root contains compounds called macamides and macaenes which have been scientifically proven to enhance energy, stamina, and sexual function. There are other reasons why maca root is such a great plant. One group of compounds, isothiocyanates, reduces the risk of breast and stomach cancer.
Guarana, loved for its mild stimulating effect, has many benefits. It is such a big part of the culture in Brazil that it actually out-sells Coca-cola in its soft-drink form. Similar to many other herbs, Guarana was used locally well before European settlement. This evergreen vine usually climbs fairly far up the Brazilian forest trees, its seed being the main part that gets used. It also contains powerful antioxidants including catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins that protect cells from destruction of free radicals and also give benefits to the body’s tissues and blood.
Catuaba, a common tree found in South America, contains many components known as alkaloids. These alkaloids are responsible for the mental boost that most people get when they take a catuaba-based supplement or mix. Catuaba bark can be a little bit confusing because there are many species using the same common name. Make sure to read labels carefully, as the one that results with the best luck is Erythroxylum catuaba.
Coffee Fruit, specifically the bright, red berry that is the seed of the coffee fruit, is often left behind in the process of making coffee. This is because it is too delicate to last long in the hot conditions necessary to make coffee. However, advances in technology have made the “coffee cherry” extract possible. This extract is not just another antioxidant. It also decreases tumor size and possibly even prevents their formation in the first place. The elements in coffee berry activate T-lymphocytes which shrink mammary tumors or simply put them on hold.
Muira Puama, which grows between 15 and 45 feet high and is native to the Amazon basin of Brazil, has been used for centuries for energy support. Some of its included components are beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and lupeol. Like other nervous system stimulants, muira puama has been researched lately for its ability to boost memory retrieval and protect brain tissue. This herb is also able to improve low libido and poor erectile function in men after only two weeks.
Acai berry, a traditional favorite food source for people in the Amazon, grows on a tall-growing palm and provides a rich source of anthocyanins, which are purple pigments that have extremely high antioxidant activity. Once the fruit is harvested, it decays rapidly. Therefore, special processing is necessary to make sure that all the nutrients of acai berry are included. Not only do these fruits fight against free radical damage, but they also help natural digestive enzymes and boost natural immune defenses. Current research is investigating the effects of acai berry on leukemia, as results have been very positive so far. When choosing a supplement, make sure to look for one that is organically-grown. The best companies employ local people to harvest acai so that they provide jobs and better lives for future generations to come.
Sustainability refers to a set of naturally occurring circumstances that ensure that all members of a situation are adequately nourished to promote their healthy continuance as well as practices in programs designed and implemented to keep natural systems healthy and flourishing. Many of these programs focus on environmental protection and preservation of traditional cultures. In the realm of medicinal plants, sustainable practices consist of organic agriculture, species management, fair trade, and benefit-sharing programs. To sum it up, sustainability pays people fair wages, puts resources back into the communities they came from, and ensure that the resources that benefit us all are going to stay around for a long time to come. It is an earth-friendly, people-friendly concept of commerce that is thankfully being put into effect all around the world.
Herbal supplements are a great way to boost energy, boost immune response, and boost libido when taken correctly. Always consult your health care provider for conditions such as loss of energy, chronic colds from low immune system, or no libido because symptoms like these are not normal to healthy individuals and need address by a processional. Great supplements like maca root, catuaba, muira puama, acai berry, and green tea can all be found at your local or internet health food store.
Maca root, which has been cultivated for at least 2000 years, is related to plants including radishes, mustard, and cabbage. It is cultivated by the Andean people in Peru, where it is found to contain a great deal of beneficial compounds that enhance overall health and vitality. Some strains of maca root have been cultivated in Incan sites since 1600 B.C. During early European colonization, maca root was used as a form of currency, similar to the way cocoa was used by the Aztecs. This plant thrives in high altitudes between 10,000 and 16,000 feet. It seems that the harsher the conditions, the better it grows, as efforts to grow the plant in Central Europe haven’t been successful as compared to its home turf in Peru. Maca root is a popular, nutrient-packed super food which is commonly powdered and mixed into drinks. Because maca root is a natural energizer, it has libido enhancing abilities, as well as many others. It acts as an adaptogen, being known as “Peruvian Ginseng” in South America. Maca root is most commonly recommended for boosting the immune system, menopause support, and hormonal balance in general. It is a great source of energy and for all-day endurance. The alkaloids found in maca root are partially responsible for maca’s energizing abilities and libido boost. Research has proven that the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) boosts energy and overall aphrodisiac abilities in both men and women. Maca root contains compounds called macamides and macaenes which have been scientifically proven to enhance energy, stamina, and sexual function. There are other reasons why maca root is such a great plant. One group of compounds, isothiocyanates, reduces the risk of breast and stomach cancer.
Guarana, loved for its mild stimulating effect, has many benefits. It is such a big part of the culture in Brazil that it actually out-sells Coca-cola in its soft-drink form. Similar to many other herbs, Guarana was used locally well before European settlement. This evergreen vine usually climbs fairly far up the Brazilian forest trees, its seed being the main part that gets used. It also contains powerful antioxidants including catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins that protect cells from destruction of free radicals and also give benefits to the body’s tissues and blood.
Catuaba, a common tree found in South America, contains many components known as alkaloids. These alkaloids are responsible for the mental boost that most people get when they take a catuaba-based supplement or mix. Catuaba bark can be a little bit confusing because there are many species using the same common name. Make sure to read labels carefully, as the one that results with the best luck is Erythroxylum catuaba.
Coffee Fruit, specifically the bright, red berry that is the seed of the coffee fruit, is often left behind in the process of making coffee. This is because it is too delicate to last long in the hot conditions necessary to make coffee. However, advances in technology have made the “coffee cherry” extract possible. This extract is not just another antioxidant. It also decreases tumor size and possibly even prevents their formation in the first place. The elements in coffee berry activate T-lymphocytes which shrink mammary tumors or simply put them on hold.
Muira Puama, which grows between 15 and 45 feet high and is native to the Amazon basin of Brazil, has been used for centuries for energy support. Some of its included components are beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and lupeol. Like other nervous system stimulants, muira puama has been researched lately for its ability to boost memory retrieval and protect brain tissue. This herb is also able to improve low libido and poor erectile function in men after only two weeks.
Acai berry, a traditional favorite food source for people in the Amazon, grows on a tall-growing palm and provides a rich source of anthocyanins, which are purple pigments that have extremely high antioxidant activity. Once the fruit is harvested, it decays rapidly. Therefore, special processing is necessary to make sure that all the nutrients of acai berry are included. Not only do these fruits fight against free radical damage, but they also help natural digestive enzymes and boost natural immune defenses. Current research is investigating the effects of acai berry on leukemia, as results have been very positive so far. When choosing a supplement, make sure to look for one that is organically-grown. The best companies employ local people to harvest acai so that they provide jobs and better lives for future generations to come.
Sustainability refers to a set of naturally occurring circumstances that ensure that all members of a situation are adequately nourished to promote their healthy continuance as well as practices in programs designed and implemented to keep natural systems healthy and flourishing. Many of these programs focus on environmental protection and preservation of traditional cultures. In the realm of medicinal plants, sustainable practices consist of organic agriculture, species management, fair trade, and benefit-sharing programs. To sum it up, sustainability pays people fair wages, puts resources back into the communities they came from, and ensure that the resources that benefit us all are going to stay around for a long time to come. It is an earth-friendly, people-friendly concept of commerce that is thankfully being put into effect all around the world.
Herbal supplements are a great way to boost energy, boost immune response, and boost libido when taken correctly. Always consult your health care provider for conditions such as loss of energy, chronic colds from low immune system, or no libido because symptoms like these are not normal to healthy individuals and need address by a processional. Great supplements like maca root, catuaba, muira puama, acai berry, and green tea can all be found at your local or internet health food store.
Natural Supplements Like 5-HTP To Support A Normal Sleep Cycle
5-HTP is 5-Hydroxytryptophan, and amino acid and a precursor of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter. 5-HTP can pass from the blood to the brain and allow it to synthesis serotonin and it is thought to work synergistically with some nutritional supplements to support the way we feel, otherwise called mood. It is also thought to promote a healthy sleep cycle since serotonin itself takes part in the processes that regulate mood, sleep and also control of appetite.
A typical healthy diet does not contain significant sources of 5-hydroxytryptophan. Instead, it is manufactured by the body’s biochemistry from l-tryptophan that is found in most proteins. Hence it is available from read meats, cheese, poultry and seafood. Most is available from beef and cheese and vegetarians and vegans rely on avocados, peanuts and cashews for their l-tryptophan. Even so, these sources of tryptophan do not lead to the production of large amounts of 5-HTP by the body and a supplement is indicated when natural levels have to be increased, not only in the case of vegans but for all of us.
The major natural source of this important amino acid is the plant Griffonia simplicifolia. Native to Central and West Africa, this is a climbing shrub and its seeds are an important source of supplemental 5-HTP. So the biochemical pathway to serotonin is from 5-HTP that is taken as a supplement or synthesized from l-tryptophan.
The reason that serotonin is so important is in its variously different functions within the body. It is found not only in the brain, but also in the intestines and in the blood. When you get cut, or the blood vessels get damaged, then serotonin is released by the platelets in the blood and acts by constricting the blood vessel, and so preventing or reducing blood loss. It also controls the action of the muscles in the cardiovascular system and intestines ensuring that they function smoothly by stimulating their contraction.
However, it is for its effect on the brain that serotonin is best known. It is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for the transmission of electrical signals across the synapses, the small gaps that separate neurons. If these misfire then a whole range of neurological malfunctions can occur, including sleeplessness, autism, appetite loss, migraines, mood disorders and eating disorders. Serotonin is therefore a critical component of the brain and so, therefore, is 5-HTP, from which it is made.
The biochemical pathway involves the formation of 5-HTP from l-tryptophan by means of the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, and another enzyme converts the 5-HTP to serotonin. The serotonin can then be converted to melatonin by means of a two step reaction involving two other enzymes. Incidentally, not all of the tryptophan is converted to serotonin since it is also used to manufacture niacin, Vitamin B3 by means of another biochemical pathway and different enzymes.
Melatonin is the hormone that controls sleep patterns, and synthesized in the pineal gland deep in the brain. It would therefore seem sensible to take supplements of melatonin directly in order to promote sleep, but this seems to be effective only where the patient’s melatonin levels are low. A melatonin supplement is not nearly as effective as a supplement of 5-HTP. Tryptophan is effective in improving sleep levels and decreasing the number of times insomniacs awaken during the night, but this is a prescription drug.
5-HTP is not, and can be purchased at any health store. It is a very effective substitute for tryptophan and a daily dosage of 50 mg – 100 mg taken with fruit juice has a significant sedative effect on children and insomniac adults. All these facts have been established in double blind studies where neither the patients nor those carrying out the studies have known who received the drug or supplement and who were given a placebo.
Apart from its effect on sleep, 5-HTP supplements improve mood and help depression, PMS, anxiety and migraines, and also help overweight people by acting as an appetite suppressant. Insomnia can be caused by a number of factors, among them anxiety and depression, and serotonin can help to control these conditions. Melatonin secretion appears to be promoted by Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and B12 deficiency is common, especially among the elderly and in vegans, since there is no effective vegetable source. A vitamin B12 supplement might also help sleeplessness by improving the secretion of melatonin once biosynthesized.
However, although the supplement is a natural product, keep in mind that it is a mood-changing chemical and can interact with other drugs. Examples of known interferences are with triptans used in treating migraines, and Carbidopa that is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease. It is important that if you are on any other medication you check with your doctor that a 5-HTP supplement is safe for you to take. It has not yet been tested for safety during pregnancy and nursing and there is a possibility that it could be the cause of seizures in Down’s Syndrome children, though that has still to be established.
To sum up, then, 5-HTP is not contained to any extent in a normal diet, but is manufactured from the body’s diet of proteins that contain its precursor, l-tryptophan. In the event of a 5-HTP deficiency, there is insufficient biochemical production of it from natural sources of l-tryptophan to make up for any shortage, and so supplements are required.
5-HTP supplements are indicated in the event of insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns and where mood and appetite have to be regulated. It is also used to alleviate the symptoms of melatonin deficiency such as depression, anxiety and tension, and in such cases 5-HTP, being a natural over-the-counter supplement, is preferred to the prescription drug tryptophan. Recently l-tryptophan has come back on the market as an Over the counter supplement available in health food stores. Melatonin supplements are effective only where there is a definite reduction in the patient’s natural level, and 5-HTP is more effective where a general increase in melatonin is needed.
5-HTP is a natural and safe remedy for sleeplessness, but you must check with your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you are taking any other medication.
A typical healthy diet does not contain significant sources of 5-hydroxytryptophan. Instead, it is manufactured by the body’s biochemistry from l-tryptophan that is found in most proteins. Hence it is available from read meats, cheese, poultry and seafood. Most is available from beef and cheese and vegetarians and vegans rely on avocados, peanuts and cashews for their l-tryptophan. Even so, these sources of tryptophan do not lead to the production of large amounts of 5-HTP by the body and a supplement is indicated when natural levels have to be increased, not only in the case of vegans but for all of us.
The major natural source of this important amino acid is the plant Griffonia simplicifolia. Native to Central and West Africa, this is a climbing shrub and its seeds are an important source of supplemental 5-HTP. So the biochemical pathway to serotonin is from 5-HTP that is taken as a supplement or synthesized from l-tryptophan.
The reason that serotonin is so important is in its variously different functions within the body. It is found not only in the brain, but also in the intestines and in the blood. When you get cut, or the blood vessels get damaged, then serotonin is released by the platelets in the blood and acts by constricting the blood vessel, and so preventing or reducing blood loss. It also controls the action of the muscles in the cardiovascular system and intestines ensuring that they function smoothly by stimulating their contraction.
However, it is for its effect on the brain that serotonin is best known. It is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for the transmission of electrical signals across the synapses, the small gaps that separate neurons. If these misfire then a whole range of neurological malfunctions can occur, including sleeplessness, autism, appetite loss, migraines, mood disorders and eating disorders. Serotonin is therefore a critical component of the brain and so, therefore, is 5-HTP, from which it is made.
The biochemical pathway involves the formation of 5-HTP from l-tryptophan by means of the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, and another enzyme converts the 5-HTP to serotonin. The serotonin can then be converted to melatonin by means of a two step reaction involving two other enzymes. Incidentally, not all of the tryptophan is converted to serotonin since it is also used to manufacture niacin, Vitamin B3 by means of another biochemical pathway and different enzymes.
Melatonin is the hormone that controls sleep patterns, and synthesized in the pineal gland deep in the brain. It would therefore seem sensible to take supplements of melatonin directly in order to promote sleep, but this seems to be effective only where the patient’s melatonin levels are low. A melatonin supplement is not nearly as effective as a supplement of 5-HTP. Tryptophan is effective in improving sleep levels and decreasing the number of times insomniacs awaken during the night, but this is a prescription drug.
5-HTP is not, and can be purchased at any health store. It is a very effective substitute for tryptophan and a daily dosage of 50 mg – 100 mg taken with fruit juice has a significant sedative effect on children and insomniac adults. All these facts have been established in double blind studies where neither the patients nor those carrying out the studies have known who received the drug or supplement and who were given a placebo.
Apart from its effect on sleep, 5-HTP supplements improve mood and help depression, PMS, anxiety and migraines, and also help overweight people by acting as an appetite suppressant. Insomnia can be caused by a number of factors, among them anxiety and depression, and serotonin can help to control these conditions. Melatonin secretion appears to be promoted by Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and B12 deficiency is common, especially among the elderly and in vegans, since there is no effective vegetable source. A vitamin B12 supplement might also help sleeplessness by improving the secretion of melatonin once biosynthesized.
However, although the supplement is a natural product, keep in mind that it is a mood-changing chemical and can interact with other drugs. Examples of known interferences are with triptans used in treating migraines, and Carbidopa that is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease. It is important that if you are on any other medication you check with your doctor that a 5-HTP supplement is safe for you to take. It has not yet been tested for safety during pregnancy and nursing and there is a possibility that it could be the cause of seizures in Down’s Syndrome children, though that has still to be established.
To sum up, then, 5-HTP is not contained to any extent in a normal diet, but is manufactured from the body’s diet of proteins that contain its precursor, l-tryptophan. In the event of a 5-HTP deficiency, there is insufficient biochemical production of it from natural sources of l-tryptophan to make up for any shortage, and so supplements are required.
5-HTP supplements are indicated in the event of insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns and where mood and appetite have to be regulated. It is also used to alleviate the symptoms of melatonin deficiency such as depression, anxiety and tension, and in such cases 5-HTP, being a natural over-the-counter supplement, is preferred to the prescription drug tryptophan. Recently l-tryptophan has come back on the market as an Over the counter supplement available in health food stores. Melatonin supplements are effective only where there is a definite reduction in the patient’s natural level, and 5-HTP is more effective where a general increase in melatonin is needed.
5-HTP is a natural and safe remedy for sleeplessness, but you must check with your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing, or if you are taking any other medication.
Folic Acid May Reduce Birth Defects And Aid In Cancer Treatment
Folate also known as folic acid is a member of the B vitamin family, derived from the term “foliage”. Folic acid is found in dark leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits, meat, and wheat germ. Let’s look at how folic acid is found in nature, how folic acid might help in birth defects, and help with cancer treatment.
Folic acid occurs in two forms in nature folic acid or folate. The only place you will find folic acid is in fortified foods or multiple vitamins. B vitamins need to be in their active form for the body to utilize them. All B vitamins have to be coenzymated by the liver the active form before the body can absorb them. Folic acid is usually found in the form of folate. Folate is the most commonly use form of folic acid because it is highly bioavailable and chemically stable. Folate is easily reduced to tetrahydrofolate, the active coenzyme form of folate.
Folate is most always absorbed in the small intestines. Folate is converted or metabolized into 5-methylterahydrofolate when absorbed across the intestinal mucosa. When folic acid in the form of folate is taken on an empty stomach, almost one hundred percent is absorbed into the bloodstream. Digestibility of folic acid with foods is estimated at fifty percent and folic acid that is not in the form of folate is estimated at eighty five percent. Recently, studies have been performed on the digestibility of folic acid in supplements verses foods fortified. They discovered that dietary supplements provide more bioavailable folic acid than foods. For example, one study compared folic acid in supplement form verses orange juice that is fortified with folic acid, the dietary supplement won in terms of a better absorption rate.
Pregnant women can benefit the most from taking folic acid daily. In the United States alone there are over three thousand pregnancies with neural tube birth defects. Neural tube is formed early in pregnancy which later turns into the brain and spine on babies. When the neural tube does not form correctly early in pregnancy, the baby can grow up with life long disabilities or worst case it can cause death. The two most common neural tube defects are known as spinal bifida and anencephaly. Studies have found that a folic acid deficiency can cause a neural tube defect early in pregnancy. The U.S. Public Health Service and March of Dimes recommends that all women in child bearing years should take folic acid in no less than 400 micrograms per day to reduce the risk of neural tube defects while pregnant. The studies have been so conclusive that even the FDA has authorized a disease risk reduction health claim that folic acid can reduce the risk of birth defects in pregnant women.
One study in 2004 was done by the Lewin Group found that in 10.5 million women of childbearing age who took 400 micrograms of folic acid. This study showed six hundred fewer babies were born with neural tube defects which provided a significant reduction in medical costs. Estimated savings of 1.3 billion in lifetime medical costs just in the five years this study has been out.
Also, researchers have discovered that cancer cells have a natural attraction to folic acid. This opens a whole new area of drug therapies that could become available for cancer patients. Folic acid could be used as a nontoxic carrier for chemotherapy drugs. Researchers at the fourth annual Gene, Drug Therapy and Molecular Biology meeting, suggested that conventional chemotherapy drugs could be used to destroy cancer cells with folic acid as the carrier. Researchers have found that folic acid is over-expressed in certain cancers: especially cancers of the ovary, cervix, endometrium, kidney, breast, brain, lung, and colon. Researchers said that tumors resistant to typical chemotherapy treatments gobble up folic acid. Researchers estimate that over 300,000 people are diagnosed with cancers that over-express the folate receptor in the United States alone. These cancer cells have 500,000 times greater affinity for folic acid than normal healthy cells. Drugs with folic acid as a carrier can find those hard to reach cancer cells while avoiding the normal healthy cells.
Folic acid looks like a very promising B vitamin supplement to aid in wide range of diseases. If you are in child bearing years or undergoing cancer treatment, always consult your health care provider before starting a new supplement regiment. Remember when looking for folic acid, always read the label and make sure the folic acid you are taking is in the form of folate. Great supplements like Folic Acid can be found at your local or internet health food store.
Folic acid occurs in two forms in nature folic acid or folate. The only place you will find folic acid is in fortified foods or multiple vitamins. B vitamins need to be in their active form for the body to utilize them. All B vitamins have to be coenzymated by the liver the active form before the body can absorb them. Folic acid is usually found in the form of folate. Folate is the most commonly use form of folic acid because it is highly bioavailable and chemically stable. Folate is easily reduced to tetrahydrofolate, the active coenzyme form of folate.
Folate is most always absorbed in the small intestines. Folate is converted or metabolized into 5-methylterahydrofolate when absorbed across the intestinal mucosa. When folic acid in the form of folate is taken on an empty stomach, almost one hundred percent is absorbed into the bloodstream. Digestibility of folic acid with foods is estimated at fifty percent and folic acid that is not in the form of folate is estimated at eighty five percent. Recently, studies have been performed on the digestibility of folic acid in supplements verses foods fortified. They discovered that dietary supplements provide more bioavailable folic acid than foods. For example, one study compared folic acid in supplement form verses orange juice that is fortified with folic acid, the dietary supplement won in terms of a better absorption rate.
Pregnant women can benefit the most from taking folic acid daily. In the United States alone there are over three thousand pregnancies with neural tube birth defects. Neural tube is formed early in pregnancy which later turns into the brain and spine on babies. When the neural tube does not form correctly early in pregnancy, the baby can grow up with life long disabilities or worst case it can cause death. The two most common neural tube defects are known as spinal bifida and anencephaly. Studies have found that a folic acid deficiency can cause a neural tube defect early in pregnancy. The U.S. Public Health Service and March of Dimes recommends that all women in child bearing years should take folic acid in no less than 400 micrograms per day to reduce the risk of neural tube defects while pregnant. The studies have been so conclusive that even the FDA has authorized a disease risk reduction health claim that folic acid can reduce the risk of birth defects in pregnant women.
One study in 2004 was done by the Lewin Group found that in 10.5 million women of childbearing age who took 400 micrograms of folic acid. This study showed six hundred fewer babies were born with neural tube defects which provided a significant reduction in medical costs. Estimated savings of 1.3 billion in lifetime medical costs just in the five years this study has been out.
Also, researchers have discovered that cancer cells have a natural attraction to folic acid. This opens a whole new area of drug therapies that could become available for cancer patients. Folic acid could be used as a nontoxic carrier for chemotherapy drugs. Researchers at the fourth annual Gene, Drug Therapy and Molecular Biology meeting, suggested that conventional chemotherapy drugs could be used to destroy cancer cells with folic acid as the carrier. Researchers have found that folic acid is over-expressed in certain cancers: especially cancers of the ovary, cervix, endometrium, kidney, breast, brain, lung, and colon. Researchers said that tumors resistant to typical chemotherapy treatments gobble up folic acid. Researchers estimate that over 300,000 people are diagnosed with cancers that over-express the folate receptor in the United States alone. These cancer cells have 500,000 times greater affinity for folic acid than normal healthy cells. Drugs with folic acid as a carrier can find those hard to reach cancer cells while avoiding the normal healthy cells.
Folic acid looks like a very promising B vitamin supplement to aid in wide range of diseases. If you are in child bearing years or undergoing cancer treatment, always consult your health care provider before starting a new supplement regiment. Remember when looking for folic acid, always read the label and make sure the folic acid you are taking is in the form of folate. Great supplements like Folic Acid can be found at your local or internet health food store.
Support Adolescence with Flower Remedies
Adolescence - the difficult period when a child changes from child to adult, usually beginning at age eleven and lasting through nineteen. This is a period of great change - physical changes in their body become very apparent, young people begin to search for their personal identity, they begin to feel strong sexual feelings and learn what is socially appropriate and responsible in reaction to theses feelings.
Young people begin to challenge parents' authority and the safety of their care in order to develop personal freedom and independence. This is a time when they begin to know the world they live in, their social systems become more solid, their school work becomes more challenging, many hold their own jobs and become active in extra-curricular and civic activities.
Ironically, during these turbulent years, as young folks work hard at establishing their self-identity and individuality they are very vulnerable to the pressures of the world and often look for security in their peers. Adolescence brings with it a period of apprehension, insecurity, and experimentation which produces a kind of sameness in order to become one-of-the crowd. These young adults begin to dress in similar fashion and wear similar hairstyles; they begin to talk alike, listen to the same style of music, and socialize with others of similar mind.
Individuality and maturity carries with it a long period of unreasonable judgment commonly due to a lack of life inexperience. Too often we hear reports in written and verbal media regarding the extremely high incidence of teenage pregnancy resulting in the death of mother and/or child, and in extreme cases, incarceration of one or both too-young parents. Drug and alcohol abuse is seen in children as young as ten years of age. Drug abuse now includes snorting of household chemicals, pulverizing standard over-the-counter (and prescription) drugs and snorting them. Suicide is the third leading cause of death amongst American teens (aged 10-19), next to accidents and homicide. Three million people in the US cry out in emotional pain by "cutting", causing physical injury to themselves as a way of relieving internal emotional agony. Recent statistics report that there are more children in the population affected by divorce than there are children living in households with intact parental partnerships. 35% of our teens are at risk or are overweight (by 25 pounds or more). 20% are obese. It is incredible that very young children and teens alike are now being diagnosed with high blood pressure, dangerously high cholesterol levels, and the beginnings of cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and depression, asthma, allergies and ADD/OCD in record numbers. Almost 30% of our teens are diagnosed with eating disorders or other forms of mental or emotional illnesses.
Why? One can entertain many explanations. A record number of families are fractured by divorce. Parents are absent from the home too often. Social, spiritual, role model connections are often sacrificed when the family unit is stressed. Our food sources are sadly depleted from vital nutrients due to additives during processing of our food and the stripping of nature's soil for centuries of over use. Fast food has become a main source of nutrition in the home, in the car, and in schools nationwide. Children have become too busy and over-stressed by well meaning social activities. Our culture has become incredibly media minded, learning the wrong ways to health and happiness. Computers have become too much of a source of our social and intellectual entertainment. Exercise of the mind, body and spirit is becoming extinct as a result.
What to do? Spend more time in a family unit to eat healthy, home cooked meals together. Take a few hours a week to play, take a walk, go to the park, concerts, game nights, etc. Look into community sponsored exercise and recreation courses. Worship together and develop a spiritual foundation to build upon. Contact a holistic nutritionist to set up healthy meal plans and dietary guidelines. Browse your local health food store for healthy choices in food and find holistic health professionals in your area. (Chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, yoga for physical helps; homeopathy, aromatherapy, and flower remedies for mental, emotional and social health are available everywhere.)
A Registered Bach Practitioner will offer supportive consultation and a personal remedy formula. The correct combination of essences will help turn negative moods and emotional states into positive ones. This gradual and subtle change supports one to be "who they truly are", decreases stress, and guides us wonderfully during challenging transitional periods. Self discovery, self-acceptance, increased confidence, and a happier path in life are all possible with flower essences. Consider essences to support the physical changes (self-image) during the teen's years; for the transition from child to adult, and help with fear and apprehension. Your practitioner can offer essences that guide in setting healthier bound-aries in relationships. Essences can help balance anger, feelings of isolation, and even help determine the long-term goals in one's life!
There is no reason for parents and teens to wander through this inevitable and challenging period of life without healthy supports. Call a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner today - and find your healthy balance today!
Young people begin to challenge parents' authority and the safety of their care in order to develop personal freedom and independence. This is a time when they begin to know the world they live in, their social systems become more solid, their school work becomes more challenging, many hold their own jobs and become active in extra-curricular and civic activities.
Ironically, during these turbulent years, as young folks work hard at establishing their self-identity and individuality they are very vulnerable to the pressures of the world and often look for security in their peers. Adolescence brings with it a period of apprehension, insecurity, and experimentation which produces a kind of sameness in order to become one-of-the crowd. These young adults begin to dress in similar fashion and wear similar hairstyles; they begin to talk alike, listen to the same style of music, and socialize with others of similar mind.
Individuality and maturity carries with it a long period of unreasonable judgment commonly due to a lack of life inexperience. Too often we hear reports in written and verbal media regarding the extremely high incidence of teenage pregnancy resulting in the death of mother and/or child, and in extreme cases, incarceration of one or both too-young parents. Drug and alcohol abuse is seen in children as young as ten years of age. Drug abuse now includes snorting of household chemicals, pulverizing standard over-the-counter (and prescription) drugs and snorting them. Suicide is the third leading cause of death amongst American teens (aged 10-19), next to accidents and homicide. Three million people in the US cry out in emotional pain by "cutting", causing physical injury to themselves as a way of relieving internal emotional agony. Recent statistics report that there are more children in the population affected by divorce than there are children living in households with intact parental partnerships. 35% of our teens are at risk or are overweight (by 25 pounds or more). 20% are obese. It is incredible that very young children and teens alike are now being diagnosed with high blood pressure, dangerously high cholesterol levels, and the beginnings of cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and depression, asthma, allergies and ADD/OCD in record numbers. Almost 30% of our teens are diagnosed with eating disorders or other forms of mental or emotional illnesses.
Why? One can entertain many explanations. A record number of families are fractured by divorce. Parents are absent from the home too often. Social, spiritual, role model connections are often sacrificed when the family unit is stressed. Our food sources are sadly depleted from vital nutrients due to additives during processing of our food and the stripping of nature's soil for centuries of over use. Fast food has become a main source of nutrition in the home, in the car, and in schools nationwide. Children have become too busy and over-stressed by well meaning social activities. Our culture has become incredibly media minded, learning the wrong ways to health and happiness. Computers have become too much of a source of our social and intellectual entertainment. Exercise of the mind, body and spirit is becoming extinct as a result.
What to do? Spend more time in a family unit to eat healthy, home cooked meals together. Take a few hours a week to play, take a walk, go to the park, concerts, game nights, etc. Look into community sponsored exercise and recreation courses. Worship together and develop a spiritual foundation to build upon. Contact a holistic nutritionist to set up healthy meal plans and dietary guidelines. Browse your local health food store for healthy choices in food and find holistic health professionals in your area. (Chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, yoga for physical helps; homeopathy, aromatherapy, and flower remedies for mental, emotional and social health are available everywhere.)
A Registered Bach Practitioner will offer supportive consultation and a personal remedy formula. The correct combination of essences will help turn negative moods and emotional states into positive ones. This gradual and subtle change supports one to be "who they truly are", decreases stress, and guides us wonderfully during challenging transitional periods. Self discovery, self-acceptance, increased confidence, and a happier path in life are all possible with flower essences. Consider essences to support the physical changes (self-image) during the teen's years; for the transition from child to adult, and help with fear and apprehension. Your practitioner can offer essences that guide in setting healthier bound-aries in relationships. Essences can help balance anger, feelings of isolation, and even help determine the long-term goals in one's life!
There is no reason for parents and teens to wander through this inevitable and challenging period of life without healthy supports. Call a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner today - and find your healthy balance today!
The Green Person
We know our planet is hot - how hot is still a question of some debate - although it seems we get closer each day to a consensus that something (or a whole lot of something's) must be done to reverse the effects of global warming.
Chances are if you're reading this column, you are one of those people who is either looking for more information on Living Green or you are a Green Person already.
The good news: There is no shortage of ways Joe Consumer can make changes in Living Green on the way to Being Green.
If you are just starting, here are some powerful adjustments almost anyone can make:
1. Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs (or, CFLs). The EPA says "If every American household changed five regular light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs, it would be like taking 8 million cars off the road." Look for the Energy Star logo; any average hardware store carries them.
2. Cut down on VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) by using gas grills over charcoal grilling. Gas BBQs produce about half as much CO2 as charcoal grills, and about 1/3 as much as electric grills.
3. This summer collect rainwater run-off with a simple rain barrel solution. Rainwater is chlorine free, can be used on plants and helps reduce polluted rain run-off in streams and rivers.
4. Plant a tree. Trees act like natural air filters. They absorb the carbon dioxide and release oxygen back into the air. The average person is responsible for emitting 94 pounds of CO2 every day. It takes at least four trees to offset the CO2 you personally generate in a month. Visit American Forests (americanforests.org) or The Conservation Fund (conservationfund.org), a non profit group in Arlington, VA for more. Both groups will plant a tree for you.
(And, for $57 the Conservation Fund will plant 11 trees for you - enough to neutralize 14 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere!)
The other half of the model Green Person requires a bigger commitment to Living Green/Being Green. Because they are "macro" choices they will have much bigger impacts on the cleaning up the environment, saving energy and remaining carbon neutral.
Big commitments might look like this:
1. Drive a fuel-efficient hybrid car
2. Build an energy efficient, sustainably built green home
3. Donate a percentage of your earnings to an environmentally responsible non-profit.
Living Green starts with a state of mind. The choices can be absurdly confusing, often eccentric and tend to the altruistic. The important thing is to put it in perspective.
At the same time, Living Green is NOT meant to be polarizing, it is NOT a superficial label and it is NOT an excuse to point fingers at people.
Green IS an excuse to take some new steps towards cleaning up the environment.
Chances are if you're reading this column, you are one of those people who is either looking for more information on Living Green or you are a Green Person already.
The good news: There is no shortage of ways Joe Consumer can make changes in Living Green on the way to Being Green.
If you are just starting, here are some powerful adjustments almost anyone can make:
1. Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs (or, CFLs). The EPA says "If every American household changed five regular light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs, it would be like taking 8 million cars off the road." Look for the Energy Star logo; any average hardware store carries them.
2. Cut down on VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) by using gas grills over charcoal grilling. Gas BBQs produce about half as much CO2 as charcoal grills, and about 1/3 as much as electric grills.
3. This summer collect rainwater run-off with a simple rain barrel solution. Rainwater is chlorine free, can be used on plants and helps reduce polluted rain run-off in streams and rivers.
4. Plant a tree. Trees act like natural air filters. They absorb the carbon dioxide and release oxygen back into the air. The average person is responsible for emitting 94 pounds of CO2 every day. It takes at least four trees to offset the CO2 you personally generate in a month. Visit American Forests (americanforests.org) or The Conservation Fund (conservationfund.org), a non profit group in Arlington, VA for more. Both groups will plant a tree for you.
(And, for $57 the Conservation Fund will plant 11 trees for you - enough to neutralize 14 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere!)
The other half of the model Green Person requires a bigger commitment to Living Green/Being Green. Because they are "macro" choices they will have much bigger impacts on the cleaning up the environment, saving energy and remaining carbon neutral.
Big commitments might look like this:
1. Drive a fuel-efficient hybrid car
2. Build an energy efficient, sustainably built green home
3. Donate a percentage of your earnings to an environmentally responsible non-profit.
Living Green starts with a state of mind. The choices can be absurdly confusing, often eccentric and tend to the altruistic. The important thing is to put it in perspective.
At the same time, Living Green is NOT meant to be polarizing, it is NOT a superficial label and it is NOT an excuse to point fingers at people.
Green IS an excuse to take some new steps towards cleaning up the environment.
How to Pick a Reflexology School
How to Go About Choosing the Right Reflexology School
So you want to learn how to give your friends or family a reflexology session or maybe even are thinking about beginning a new career or part-time job that lets you help others who are looking for solutions that support wellness.
Maybe you have looked at holistic health or trade publications that speak about the opportunities for financial growth in the alternative health industry of which reflexology is a part. At this point you're asking yourself, "Where do I start?”
Slow down, relax. Here are a few tips by experts in the field about choosing the school that is right for you. Maybe you really like the holistic, body, mind and spirit connection of bodywork like reflexology. Or maybe you are a “just the facts” kind of person who likes to have scientific facts and data to back things up. Schools are as different as the students that attend their classes.
So, take the following tips and come up with some questions designed to get the particular answers you need to make your decision about the school that is the right choice for YOU. Then, check out the school setting to see if the atmosphere is right for you. Attend a clinic where the students get hands on experience by working on people like you. Ask the students questions about their class and what they think about it. Call and talk to the instructors. Remember you are hiring them to provide a service. So interview them first. Attend an open house to see the facilities and talk to the faculty.
Here are some five tips to help you pick the reflexology program and school that is a perfect match for you:
1. Have a reflexology session or two to experience the different styles of each therapist. Talk to them about their school and find out what they liked best and least.
2. Now let’s talk a little bit about you. Sit down and let your brain go and think with your pencil without worrying about legibility, grammar or whether it makes sense or not. No one needs to even see this but you. Answer some questions. Why do you want to learn reflexology? What did you like best about receiving reflexology? Least? Do you have any hang-ups about touching other people’s feet, hand or ears? What about strangers? Do you wish to practice reflexology as a gift for people you know or for others outside your circle of family and friends? Will you work part or full time on others? Will you have problems charging for your services? These are all important questions that you need to be honest with yourself about before you commit financially and personally to professional training like the IUPUI Reflexology Certification Program in Indianapolis.
3. Still unsure? Consider a short, community education course at your local school or university such as Indiana University, Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). The shorter hour courses offered through community education or community learning networks will probably provide sufficient instruction to work on family and friends. They will also give you a good idea whether or not you want study reflexology in a longer course for professionals which are typically 200 or more hours.
4. Review the materials and course descriptions. Note class requirements, instructor credentials costs, classroom hours, dates and length of the course. List questions the materials don’t address.
5. Interview the instructors. Look at whether they are nationally certified, still operate a practice and if the school is accredited and has a long-standing reputation.
These are all great ways to ensure that your reflexology training will be a great investment in your future as a professional reflexologist or that your community education class will help you learn enough about reflexology to work on your kids and friends.
For the right school in Indiana, call IUPUI Reflexology Certification Program at 317-403-5051 or go to http://www.restore-inc.com/iupuireflexology.html
So you want to learn how to give your friends or family a reflexology session or maybe even are thinking about beginning a new career or part-time job that lets you help others who are looking for solutions that support wellness.
Maybe you have looked at holistic health or trade publications that speak about the opportunities for financial growth in the alternative health industry of which reflexology is a part. At this point you're asking yourself, "Where do I start?”
Slow down, relax. Here are a few tips by experts in the field about choosing the school that is right for you. Maybe you really like the holistic, body, mind and spirit connection of bodywork like reflexology. Or maybe you are a “just the facts” kind of person who likes to have scientific facts and data to back things up. Schools are as different as the students that attend their classes.
So, take the following tips and come up with some questions designed to get the particular answers you need to make your decision about the school that is the right choice for YOU. Then, check out the school setting to see if the atmosphere is right for you. Attend a clinic where the students get hands on experience by working on people like you. Ask the students questions about their class and what they think about it. Call and talk to the instructors. Remember you are hiring them to provide a service. So interview them first. Attend an open house to see the facilities and talk to the faculty.
Here are some five tips to help you pick the reflexology program and school that is a perfect match for you:
1. Have a reflexology session or two to experience the different styles of each therapist. Talk to them about their school and find out what they liked best and least.
2. Now let’s talk a little bit about you. Sit down and let your brain go and think with your pencil without worrying about legibility, grammar or whether it makes sense or not. No one needs to even see this but you. Answer some questions. Why do you want to learn reflexology? What did you like best about receiving reflexology? Least? Do you have any hang-ups about touching other people’s feet, hand or ears? What about strangers? Do you wish to practice reflexology as a gift for people you know or for others outside your circle of family and friends? Will you work part or full time on others? Will you have problems charging for your services? These are all important questions that you need to be honest with yourself about before you commit financially and personally to professional training like the IUPUI Reflexology Certification Program in Indianapolis.
3. Still unsure? Consider a short, community education course at your local school or university such as Indiana University, Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). The shorter hour courses offered through community education or community learning networks will probably provide sufficient instruction to work on family and friends. They will also give you a good idea whether or not you want study reflexology in a longer course for professionals which are typically 200 or more hours.
4. Review the materials and course descriptions. Note class requirements, instructor credentials costs, classroom hours, dates and length of the course. List questions the materials don’t address.
5. Interview the instructors. Look at whether they are nationally certified, still operate a practice and if the school is accredited and has a long-standing reputation.
These are all great ways to ensure that your reflexology training will be a great investment in your future as a professional reflexologist or that your community education class will help you learn enough about reflexology to work on your kids and friends.
For the right school in Indiana, call IUPUI Reflexology Certification Program at 317-403-5051 or go to http://www.restore-inc.com/iupuireflexology.html
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