Natural Health Solutions - Michele Sevier

Welcome to the Natural Health Solutions blog!

It seems blogs are today’s venue to express opinions and specific views on a multitude of topics. Unlike other blogs, Natural Health Solutions will offer some opinion (of course), but focus primarily on education and hot topics. For simplicity and ease, entries will (hopefully) be short and to the point!

The natural health industry continues to grow and expand with not only new revolutionary products, but scientific validation on ingredients and their beneficial health values.

Many individuals today know that the regular use of certain supplements can improve your overall health and well-being. I will be posting information to assist you in the process of making informed, educated decisions related to your health needs.

 

Feel free to let me know your thoughts and personal stories on this exciting industry!

 

Sincerely,

 

Michele Sevier DNM DAc
Education Coordinator
nutrition house

Power Your Child’s Brain with a Smart Breakfast

As the lazy days of summer vacation begin to come to a close, it’s time to start thinking about re-formulating and re-energizing morning rituals that can help boost your child’s learning potential.

So, what can parents do to make sure that their children “have it all” — sharper mental and physical alertness, improved attention and mood, not to mention overall better health? It’s not that complicated to do. It’s about enriching one thing — breakfast.

Most children eat something in the morning before school, but that “something” doesn’t necessarily provide them with the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support their growing minds, bodies and health needs. According to a 2008 National Marketing Institute study, almost 30% of parents say they constantly struggle with trying to get their children to eat healthy. Twenty-five percent admit that they are not usually successful in getting their children proper nutrition daily. And research shows that undernourishment during any period of childhood, even for relatively short-term periods, can have a negative effect on cognitive development.

Forget the Marketing Hype, Look to the Science.

We are bombarded by marketing hyperbole: cereals that profess to be nutritional powerhouses, albeit loaded with sugar or fructose; energy drinks and juices that are beginning to make the headlines because of their excessive use of stimulating ingredients; and other convenient yet not-so-good foods that fill children’s bellies.
And we know that protein, fats and carbohydrates are important. But within each of these macronutrient categories, there are more nutritious choices over others.

Pouring your child a glass of milk in the morning? Good start, but why not enhance milk’s health benefits by including whey protein powder as well. Whey is an exceptional dietary protein choice, derived from milk, for all ages and stages of your growing child. Whey is used in infant formulas where top-notch nutrition is essential. Not only is whey an excellent source of calcium, but it also contains macro- and micro-fractions that are established immune-enhancing constituents that improve healthy body composition and lean tissue mass, and help to prevent cardiovascular disease.

A Brain Teaser or Pleaser?

Fish oils are the top performers in the healthy fat category, specifically for their EPA and DHA content. These essential fatty acids profoundly influence the overall development and health of the human body. That they are considered brain pleasers is to say the least.

In particular, DHA from omega-3 is a key building block for a healthy brain. This major structural fat supports brain and nervous system health, vision acuity, and mood. It is required in high levels to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal brain functioning, including learning ability and mental development.
Because these EFAs are inadequately supplied in most Canadian diets, especially teenagers’, the healthy fat ratio is desperately skewed and out of balance, making a supplemental source of these omega-3 fish oils a necessity for the majority of the population.

But, as most of us can attest to, it’s already hard enough to get kids to eat healthy without adding fish oil to the battle. But there is an easy way. Simply combine the milk of your choice (regular, almond, rice, etc.) with a scoop of vanilla whey protein powder. Add some fresh or frozen fruit (banana, strawberries, blueberries, etc.) along with a dose of liquid, flavoured fish oil. (Yes, fish oil can actually taste good!). Blend together. And in less than two minutes, you have a recipe for mental and physical performance success. Even the pickiest eaters will love this early morning shake. Flavours and ingredients can be modified; for example, chocolate whey protein with banana and peanut butter, a kid’s favourite. Children not into smoothies? Then take a serving of yogurt, and stir in the fish oil and a scoop of whey protein for a tasty breakfast pudding. Add a few berries and/or sprinkle of granola. The choices and combinations are only limited by your imagination.

Smart food, smart brains.

Nutrition House carries a full line-up of various brands of high-potency omega-3s and whey protein to choose from. With some planning and creativity, picky eaters’ breakfasts can be taste-pleasing, highly nutritious, and fast. And from a parent’s perspective, knowing that you have delivered a powerhouse of nutrients at the start of your children’s day that provides them optimal functioning of the body and brain, is a healthy way to give yourself peace of mind.

Stress can kill…..

Or can it?

This affliction seems to be at an all time high and people are seeking natural remedies to help ease the associated anxiety, irritability and fatigue they are suffering from. And although stress itself does not cause a specific illness or disease, it can comprise the immune system and weaken many areas of the body. Most chronic, degenerative diseases have a significant stress component attached. Irritable bowel, high blood pressure and heart disease, insomnia and depression can be caused by or worsened because of stress.
And although there is no one magic supplement, there are many that offer well-researched benefits to alleviate the frustration, anxiety, insomnia and irritability.

A great new product on the market is Veeva; a synergistic blend of nutrients that’s proven to reduce 19 stress-related symptoms and promote healthy mood balance. Tranquil Sleep from Natural Factors is an excellent adjunct to support sleep, which is essential for the body to heal. And that’s not all. Passionflower, 5-HTP, GABA, l-theanine, St. Johns Wort, Holy Basil, magnesium and so many more natural nutrients are valuable adjuncts for any stress- reducing program.

Lifestyle strategies including relaxation and meditation are essential. And don’t forget to kick the stimulants out! Caffeine, sugar and yes, ephedrine, are very hard on the body.

It’s summer, take some time for yourself. Enjoy the weather, take a walk in the woods or a run along the lake/river.

Take a drive into the country, deep breathe and regenerate your body and soul.

US Invests in Disease Prevention. Do You Invest in Yourself?

A recent news article reveals that the US Department of Health and Human Services has earmarked $250m for investment in the prevention of chronic diseases. This money is designed to promote public health and wellness, from a preventative standpoint. A large focus of the program will include disseminating information to help prevent obesity and improve fitness.

And yes, this educational initiative may be advantageous for many. But the choice is up to the individual if they will action preventative measures. Most of us know that a healthy diet is important and we also know that regular activity is essential. But ultimately it boils down to action, or in the majority of cases, lack thereof. The biggest challenge is not only the undertaking of healthy initiatives, but sticking with those new routines until they become a habit.

Kicking one bad habit at a time is often the easiest approach and is attainable. So where do you start? With what we know.

Andrew Shao, Senior VP of scientific and regulatory affairs at the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), states that observational studies have shown that people who engage in a healthy lifestyle - including eating a healthy diet, exercising, taking supplements, and not smoking, - tend to have lower rates of chronic disease, including cancer.

Perhaps it is time to invest in yourself and decide where you can improve for long term benefits and the reduction of, or at the very least, improved management of a chronic disease. Some initial steps may include forgoing the deep fried food. Increase fruit and vegetable intake each day – perhaps up it by 2 or 3 servings. Go for a brisk walk on your lunch break. Reduce alcohol consumption. Invest in a high potency omega 3 fish oil rich in EPA and DHA.

Pick one or two. The investment is worth it.

Female? Forty to Fifty? Frustrated, Fatigued and Flabby....

Sound familiar? It's a fact. Most women are looking to escape from the "F" club, or at the very least, make it a lot more FUN. Many of us are aware of the aging process. Not just the physical tell-tale signs, but the emotional ones as well. Emotional highs and lows, anxiety, lack of sleep and chronic stress. It all requires great effort and some days its downright overwhelming. What's a girl to do?

Focus on a few simple solutions.

1) Cultivate healthier food choices

Review your meals and food choices. Pick an area or two to improve. Up the veggie intake by 2 or 3 servings a day. Bypass the pop and juice. Opt for herbal tea or a glass of water with fresh squeezed lemon or lime. Bake and broil meats rather than frying.

Starting the day with a cup of coffee and a bagel? Ditch it. Take 3 minutes out of your day. Make a breakfast smoothie (whey protein, milk and fresh/frozen fruit) to ensure you start the day off right. It provides a nutritious, quick breakfast to kick start your metabolism, support health and immunity.

Did you know, some whey proteins come with many perks?

SHAPE UP SMOOTHIE contains whey protein, healthy fats, fibre and the powerful antioxidant green tea (battles aging and helps burn calories) and banaba leaf(to control cravings and balance blood sugar levels)

MOOD FOOD is a whey protein product that contains l-theanine (to help improve mood and create mental calm).

Kick it up a notch with a daily supplement of Omega 3 fish oil rich in EPA and DHA. The essential fatty acids have a plethora of health benefits. They improve mood, support brain and cognitive health, cardiovascular health and vision. They are anti-inflammatory in nature which can also aid joint health (arthritis, aches and pain) and support weight loss.

Cultivate a Stress Free Lifestyle

Chronic stress creates havoc in our lives and on our body. Effects include irritability, lack of sleep, loss of sex drive to name only a few. Furthermore, research reveals that greater life stress and stress reactivity can contribute to central (abdominal) fat.

Ugh....seriously it all seems so unfair. We do have the power to change.

Laughter. Find it. Develop it and use it. It works. Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones. Its invigorating and energizing! Research shows laughter can improve general health and strengthen the immune system, reduce pain levels and food cravings. So much more, but those few benefits alone are a great start.

MOVE. Forget exercise as we know it. Become active. Garden. Go for a walk, cut the lawn, spring clean the house.

Consider a few supplements to improve symptoms of stress. They may include theanine, GABA, 5-HTP, passionflower, St Johns Wort.

Keep a healthy attitude. Consider you cup half full. Looking on the bright side

FORTY, FRISKY, FUN, and FEELING FANTASTIC!!!!!!

Spring Cleaning for an Overworked Liver

A remarkable organ that is often taken for granted, the liver is considered to be the most important organ of metabolism, health and vitality. Amongst its 500 plus functions, the liver metabolizes protein, carbohydrates and fats. It filters over 1 litre (32 oz) of blood per minute, while removing toxins, bacteria, viruses, parasites and other unwanted particles from circulation. It manufactures 13,000 different chemicals and maintains 2,000 enzyme systems. It is the primary hub where toxins, drugs and hormones are transformed, broken down, and neutralized for their proper removal. BUT, the liver can only perform optimally given the necessary substances and nutrients to thrive.

Unfortunately toxins can build up in the body as a result of poor lifestyle and dietary habits (caffeine, alcohol, white sugar, refined food) along with the repetitive use or exposure to chemicals found in cleansers, detergents, food additives, preservatives, synthetic materials, air and environmental pollutants, heavy metals, prescription and recreational drugs, and so much more.

And although there are many organs (kidney, colon, lungs, lymphatic, skin, etc) responsible for the elimination of toxins, your liver is one of the major organs essential to support detoxification. If your liver is over-burdened many health problems can arise, including poor digestion, allergies, inflammation, chronic fatigue, blood sugar abnormalities, hormone imbalances (a cause of such things as PMS), excess weight and other chronic conditions.

Liver Detoxification
The liver has two detoxification pathways (phase I and phase II) that are responsible for breaking down, neutralizing and eliminating toxins. Simply put, a substance or toxin (pollutants, drugs, hormones, etc.) enters Phase I (the P-450 cytochrome system) where it is broken down into smaller pieces necessary for its safe removal. These modified pieces then proceed to Phase II, known as the conjugation pathway, where they are bound to substances (including cysteine, glycine and sulphur) to render them harmless. They will then be excreted from the body via urine, bile and stools.

Often the liver can become overburdened by the sheer amount of work that needs to be carried out as well as the lack of essential nutrients required for the detoxification process. Some of the most important nutrients include the amino acids glutathione, cysteine, glycine, taurine and glutamine, vitamins A, C and E, as well as the B vitamins. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein is also important.

Silymarin, the active extract found in milk thistle, has been used in clinical settings to aid against various liver disorders. This potent antioxidant has anti-inflammatory and other hepatoprotective actions. Silymarin has been shown in a variety of different studies to reduce liver cell injury by toxins through various pathways.

NAC, (N-acetylcysteine) is an amino acid and precursor of glutathione that helps with detoxification by producing optimal amounts of glutathione for conjugation reactions, rendering harmful compounds less toxic. NAC can offset liver damage caused by acetaminophen overdose. Acetaminophen poisoning (intentional and unintentional) is one of the leading causes of liver failure in the world.

Dandelion is a rich source of vitamins (A, B’s, C and D) as well as minerals including iron, potassium, and zinc. Traditional natural medicine has used dandelion root to promote liver detoxification.

There are many other herbs and nutrients including turmeric, yellow dock and licorice root that can help support and detoxify the liver. With the change of season, many natural health professionals are suggesting a detoxification program to reduce the toxic load that may be contributing to organ stress. The great news is that many exceptional liver and full body-cleanse products are available in easy to use formulations. A simple solution to those interested in increasing energy and putting that “spring” back into your step.

1, 2, 3 Arteries Fat Free

Cardiovascular disease remains the #1 killer in North America. A primary risk factor of coronary heart disease is high cholesterol; a silent villain building in our arteries, increasing our risk for circulatory problems, heart attack and stroke. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, almost 40% of Canadian adults are classified as having high blood cholesterol levels. High cholesterol shows no visible symptoms, catching most people unaware until the damage has been done.

Cholesterol is not in itself “bad”. It is manufactured in the body, and also found in certain foods. It is a waxy lipid (fat) produced in the liver that is the building block for cell membranes, hormones, bile and vitamin D. Cholesterol becomes a problem when it becomes excessive, most often through a poor diet. It contributes to atherosclerosis, the build-up or accumulation of arterial plaque (cholesterol, fatty substances, calcium and fibrous tissue) resulting in narrowing of the arteries and reduced elasticity and hardening.

Cholesterol is attached to a protein, creating a lipoprotein. It is classified as a high-density lipoprotein or a low-density lipoprotein, depending on how much protein and fat it contains. High-density lipoproteins, also know as your HDL levels, are considered “good”. HDL is cardio-protective as it contains more protein than fat. It helps clear the “bad” cholesterol and will not clog your arteries. LDL or low-density lipoproteins are predominantly fat with only a small amount of protein. LDL is considered “bad” as it can clog your arteries.

Prevention is Always the Best Approach

A healthy diet and lifestyle are simple key elements to keeping your cholesterol levels balanced, especially as we age. Remove saturated and trans fats from your diet. Consume lean protein (including fish, chicken and whey protein). Use omega 3 healthy fats and monounsaturated fats (olive oil). Increase intake of vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, grains and other sources of fibre. Engage in regular physical activity. Aim for a healthy weight and of course, stop smoking.

My Cholesterol is Slightly Elevated

For many people, the above simple changes may be all that is needed to raise HDL levels and decrease LDL. However, there are a number of natural health supplements that have been proven to help decrease elevated blood cholesterol levels.

Niacin
Niacin (nicotinic acid) or vitamin B3 is used by the body in many processes and has a favourable effect on high cholesterol. It can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL levels. A specialized form of niacin called inositol hexanicotinate, unlike its nicotinic acid form, is a safe, flush free form of niacin that medical professionals and individuals look to when dealing with high cholesterol. It has been used in Europe for over 30 years to help lower cholesterol levels and to help improve blood flow in the treatment of Raynaud’s and intermittent claudification.

Plant Sterols
Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, naturally found in legumes, fruits and vegetables are structurally similar to cholesterol produced in the body. However, plant sterols from plants or in a supplement form can lower cholesterol (specifically LDL) by reducing the amount of dietary cholesterol that is normally absorb and transported through the intestines.

Omega 3 Fish Oil
Dietary fish and their fish oil supplement counterparts contain a number of important nutrients including EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The essential fatty acids exert a myriad of health benefits, including many for the cardiovascular system. Omega 3 rich in EPA and DHA possess a triglyceride lowering effect and studies show they have a positive influence on atherosclerosis.

I Take Cholesterol-Lowering Medication

Statin medications are often prescribed by health professionals to help lower cholesterol levels. These drugs work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol. As with many medications, there comes the risk of developing drug-induced nutrient depletions. The use of statin drugs are associated with a wide range of muscle problems including fatigue, muscle pain and weakness. Clinical evidence reveals the use of these statin drugs reduce CoQ10 levels in the body. Supplementing with this nutrient can help balance drug-induced deficiencies while helping to reduce the risk of other cardiovascular diseases.

As mentioned, omega 3 EFAs from fish and fish oils are cardioprotective, but more information is coming to light that suggests increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and reducing the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, may help statins work more effectively. Additionally, a study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions found that combining cholesterol-lowering drugs with a daily supplement of EPA (from omega 3 fish oil) reduced the incidence of sudden cardiac death, heart attacks and unstable angina as well as the rate of surgeries to reopen blocked arteries.

Much of the Western world is at risk for cardiovascular disease, largely due to our sedentary lifestyle and less than optimal diet (high animal protein, low fruit, vegetables and fibre intake). For many improving these unhealthy habits will benefit their health greatly. Solutions are always apparent, just understanding those available can help everyone achieve their personal goals and outcomes.

Spring Tune Up

Demand Soars for Vitamin D

Consumers are learning more and more about the benefits of vitamin D. Check out the latest from CBC.

http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2010/01/04/vitamin-d.html

Would you Like to Supersize the Drugs in Your Fries?

News sources are reporting that Health Canada is investigating whether to approve the use of an enzyme currently used in cancer therapy in some of our less than healthy food sources. WHY?

When certain starchy foods are heated (fried or baked) at high temperatures, acrylamide forms. Studies in mice suggest that acrylamide may cause cancer, but there is less evidence in human studies. French fries and potato chips often contain the highest amount of acrylamide.

So, in their infinite wisdom, Health Canada, quote “is proposing to amend the Food and Drug Regulations to allow the enzyme asparaginase to be used in the manufacture of certain food products, including wheat dough-based products such as bread, crackers and cookies, cut potato products such as French fries, sliced potato products and fabricated potato chips.” Health Canada believes the addition of asparaginase to these foods will not raise any health or safety concerns.

The enzyme asparaginase is classified as an antineoplastic agent – a cancer drug. It is used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoma as it interferes with the growth of cancer cells and has been reported to slow the growth and spread of the cells in the body. Drugs.com reveals that “Asparaginase is highly toxic and both the powder and solution must be handled with care.”

Perhaps we should have the choice of our preferred eating habits. People at some point need to take charge of their personal health and wellness; many of us do. Intentionally adding drugs into our food sources is a slippery slope - where does it end?

Please take some action on this and express your opinion to the government.

Health Canada is accepting public comments on this proposal until February 21, 2010. Here is their web address for more information:

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/consultation/init/_dec2009-asparaginase/asp-niger-draft-ebauche-eng.php

Near the end of the page is a link to submit comments or email them or mail them directly to.

Health Canada
Bureau of Chemical Safety
251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway
Tunney's Pasture, PL: 2203B
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9

bcs-bipc@hc-sc.gc.ca

Radiation from CT Scans May Increase Cancer Risks

Recent news reports that diagnostic imaging techniques may raise the risk of cancer, most specifically the CT scan.

Many people are unaware that a CT scan can deliver up to 100 times more radiation than an x-ray. CT imaging may be essential in some cases, but it always important to be informed and aware of any associated risks with testing or treatment. Make sure you are obtaining appropriate risk information and if there is another less invasive procedure available that can warrant similar results, then opt for those.

Here is the news release from Reuters for more information.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20091214/hl_nm/us_cancer_radiation