Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Leptin Causing Your Weight Loss Woes?

Are you someone who diets and works out, but doesn’t see the results you’re wanting? If you diet, do you feel like you are always hungry?
If this sounds familiar, then you may be dealing with leptin sensitivity.
What is Leptin Sensitivity and, for that matter, Leptin?

Let’s start with leptin, a protein that’s produced by the body’s fast cells. While a variety of signals control how much we eat, the whole process begins when the brain detects your leptin levels. If the levels are normal, it shuts off the signal to store extra calories as fat. The body no longer feels like eating because the brain has told the body to stop eating.
The problem is, most overweight people have excessively high leptin levels due to leptin resistance, a process similar to the concept of insulin resistance. Essentially, the brain becomes desensitized, which makes it difficult for the body send the brain signals. This can result in food cravings and weight gain. The brain believes the body is in a famished state and tells it to continue to store fat. This sensitivity to leptin can cause the brain to believe it is in a constant state of starvation. Leptin resistance is essentially the idea that your body is obese but your brain is starving, hence the reasons people continue overeating.
How Do You Control Leptin?
Research has found that lowering leptin levels in overweight people can “reboot” your body and help with weight loss. Here are a couple of ways that you can get your body back working for you:
Suppress the appetite.
You need to eat, but not everything.
Inhibit carbs from being absorbed.
While carbohydrates in fruit and vegetables are good for you, others can cause your blood sugar to soar and disrupt your hormone balance. Eating too much of them can make leptin ineffective as an appetite suppressant.
Stop carbs from being converted to fat.
We don’t want excess carbohydrates being converted into fat. Supplements that contain natural ingredients such as White Kidney Bean Extract have been shown to help stop carbs from eventually being converted into fat.
You’ve given your body the help it needs to control leptin, now continue to work: eat a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly. You’ll get that beach body in no time!

TLS CORE Fat & Carb Inhibitor was created to deal specifically with the weight management issues related to leptin sensitivity in three specific ways.  
1. It may help with appetite suppression with the help of LeptiCore®, a clinically-proven, patent -pending, all-natural ingredient designed specifically to promote healthy weight management.*
2.  Inhibits the amount of starchy carbohydrates being absorbed by the body. These carbohydrates can elevate blood sugar levels, increasing insulin. This can cause the body to store additional fat, triggering leptin, causing you to eat and over-consume.
3.  Helps to stop the body from converting excess carbohydrates into fat.*

http://www.HealthyAzKids.com
 

Nutrition and Cancer Prevention

By Dr. Deedra Mason
Today, nutrition to prevent and treat disease had gained greater credibility among physicians as the scientific research has shown the real benefits of proper diet and quality nutritional supplementation. A quick Google search for “nutrition and cancer prevention” yields over 6.8 million results. Such is the intense interest from research scientists, physicians and the general public.
According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, no single food or food component can protect against cancer by itself. But strong evidence does show that a diet filled with a variety of plant foods—such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans—can help lower the risk for many cancers.
A healthy diet is the always the first step and the foundation of any wellness program. But when food is not enough, nutritional supplements have the potential to provide nutrients in sufficient quantities. Below are four key nutrients which have displayed anti-cancer properties in clinical settings, and, in consultation with a health professional, could be incorporated effectively into an overall wellness program.
Curcumin. Curcumin has been used for centuries safely in the care of the liver, pelvic stasis and cancer. Several studies point to curcumin as an inhibitor of cancer at the mitotic level, interfering with Initiation, Promotion and Progression stages. This fairly unique property is most likely due to curcumin’s antioxidant, free-radical scavenging effects and ability to increase levels of glutathione—the body’s own endogenous antioxidant, which has been shown to aid in the reductions of potentially mutagenic and carcinogenic pollutants of body systems.
In recent years the clinical community has also decided to directly study certain natural anti-inflammatories such as curcumin and resveratrol in comparison with over-the counter NSAIDS in their ability to inhibit tumor cell growth. The study concluded that resveratrol and curcumin were among the most potent anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative agents, while aspirin and ibuprofen were (surprisingly) among the least potent.



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Vitamin C. Some of the benefits of vitamin C in cancer care are extrapolation based on the observation that those who consume diets rich in fruits and vegetables have a lower incidence of cancer. However, a large number of objective clinical studies over the last 60 years have also investigated a more direct role of Vitamin C in cancer prevention.
Vitamin C is a fantastic donator of its electrons or double bonds and extenuates the activity in both extracellular and intracellular metabolism to limit toxic metabolites and limit free radical accumulation, which in turn may lead to DNA mutation. The most surprising part of vitamin Cs benefits is in how little vitamin C needs to be consumed to support the body at a basic level. As little a 110 mg per day has been shown to be protective, and higher intakes of ascorbic acid have been shown to be beneficial in potential prevention of oral, stomach and colorectal cancers.

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 Fatty Acids are a significant contributor to overall cellular health. Recent reviews and health trials see a benefit to Omega-3 fatty acids in skin cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung, breast and even the prevention of treatment related cachexia, or muscle-wasting. In addition, pairing Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids with Vitamin D has additive and synergistic effects in cancer treatment .
Some of these benefits are because Omega 3s exert anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic effects. By altering membrane fluidity at the cellular level, Omega 3s can help limit oxidative stress and modify signal transduction. One minor caution is that peroxidation of Omega 3s can also occur, and therefore all Omega 3 supplementation in therapy is best accompanied by concurrent antioxidant application; Vitamin E and Vitamin C are the best co-actors with Omega 3s.

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Vitamin D. A discussion about the benefits of nutritional interventions in cancer risk would not be complete without a discussion of Vitamin Ds role. Classically it is reported in the literature that Vitamin D status is inversely associated with risk of cancer; this is true in almost all of the literature on colorectal cancer. The overall summary of meta-analyses indicates that vitamin D levels, through dietary intake and serum levels of 25(OH)D, are associated with a decreased risk of cancer, including colorectal cancer, adenoma, advanced adenoma and recurrent adenoma. Some studies suggest that this relationship is made even stronger when Vitamin D3 is taken along with higher consumption of calcium, through both dietary and supplemental choices.


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Well-practiced nutrition has made considerable progress since the earlier days of medicine, when the connection between food and disease was perceived as weak or even nonexistent by medical experts. In modern times, and in legitimate laboratory studies, many individual nutrients, vitamins and phytochemicals have been shown to demonstrate anti-cancer potential. Hopefully a day will come when a new definition of what constitutes a healthy diet, combined with advances in the knowledge of what truly causes cancer, will make treatment virtually unnecessary, and prevention the new paradigm


http://www.HealthyAzKids.com

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Surviving the Holiday Feasts

by Dr. Robert Blair



The holiday season is rapidly approaching. In addition to the wonderful visits with friends and family that often occur during the holidays, many of us spend a lot of time eating lots of food. Not only do we have our traditional holiday feasts with friends and family, but we also find ourselves taking part in holiday office parties and other events where food is present in abundance. Surviving these holiday feasts can be a challenge for many of us. However, there are things we can do to survive the holidays without feeling like we ate a bowling ball:
  • Don’t go to a party hungry. Going to a holiday party hungry will almost always lead to leaving you feeling bloated and uncomfortable. According to WebMD, this can further lead to a slower digestion process, upset stomach, and heartburn. Instead of going to a holiday party hungry, try eating a healthy snack shortly before leaving home. This will help regulate your hunger and help you avoid over-eating.
  • Watch your portion sizes. At holiday parties, people often want to try all the foods offered. While there is nothing wrong with this, many tend to forget that true portion sizes are much smaller than they think. By eating smaller portions of each food item, it’s easy to sample each type of food with less chance of over-eating and causing digestive discomfort.
  • Limit high fat foods. Many holiday foods are high in dietary fat. Not only is fat high in calories, but it can slow down digestion and possibly trigger heartburn. If you choose to consume high fat foods, make sure to consume small portions.
  • Get some exercise. Rather than sitting down on that comfortable recliner after a large holiday meal, get some exercise. Taking even a leisurely walk around the neighborhood can help ward off that uncomfortable bloated feeling. Pick up the pace to a brisk walk if you want to burn off some of those extra calories.
  • Eat slowly. Eating slowly gives the brain time to send “I’m full” messages to your stomach. Waiting for this cue helps to prevent the consequences of over-eating.
In addition to these tips, a number of dietary supplements can help support a healthy digestive system during the holidays, specifically fiber, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and aloe.
  • Dietary Fiber. Most people do not consume the amount of fiber needed each day (20 – 35 grams per day for most adults). Dietary fiber has numerous benefits including helping to maintain normal digestive tract health and movement. Dietary fiber also helps maintain the beneficial bacteria in our digestive tracts.
  • Probiotics. Speaking of beneficial bacteria, probiotic supplements are a great way to support a healthy digestive system. Maintaining optimal bacterial balance is important to maintaining optimal digestive health; therefore, choosing a probiotic supplement that contains a variety of bacterial strains makes it easier to obtain the most comprehensive benefit. Some of the most beneficial strains include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium breve.
  • Digestive Enzymes. Digestive enzymes are an essential element of healthy and complete digestion, beginning with enzymes released by our salivary glands as we chew. Eating too rapidly can lead to inefficient digestion, as some of our digestive enzymes are not given time to complete their job properly. Additionally, the body’s ability to make certain enzymes declines as we age. Supplementing with digestive enzymes can promote healthy digestion and break down foods that are typically hard to digest. A good digestive enzyme supplement will contain at least three types of enzymes: proteases to digest proteins, amylases to digest carbohydrates, and lipases to digest fats. Other beneficial digestive enzymes to consider include lactase (digests lactose) and cellulase (breaks down cellulose, normally indigestible to people).
  • Aloe vera. Aloe vera promotes healthy digestion by providing natural plant enzymes that break down food. These enzymes include amylase (starch), cellulase (cellulose), lipase (lipids), and alkaline phosphatase (proteins). Aloe supplementation also helps to support a healthy gastrointestinal pH, normal composition of intestinal flora, and helps to promote an overall healthy digestive process. Consumption of aloe vera can promote bowel regularity and intestinal comfort after eating.
Combining these dietary supplements with healthy eating habits will definitely help you—and your stomach—ease through the holiday feasts.




http://www.HealthyAzKids.com

Form Your Health Foundation

by Crystal Shelton




People often wonder which supplements are best to take and what ingredients will work best for them. While most have individual needs that can be targeted, there are certain components that everyone should use to build their foundation for optimal health. Specifically, everyone should have the following in their daily regimen: a multivitamin, antioxidants, calcium and B vitamins.

Multivitamin: The most critical component of creating a wellness foundation regimen is a multivitamin. Multivitamins are intended to be taken in an effort to supplement the diet with vitamins and minerals that are not being acquired through food. It is well known people are not eating well-balanced meals and acquiring the necessary nutrients, therefore it’s easily stated that multivitamins qualify as one of the most important dietary supplements to be taken. Vitamins and minerals are the foundation of health and nutrition and are necessary for the body to carry out normal functions.


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It’s very important to choose a multivitamin which provides all of the essential vitamins and minerals which are included at amounts that provide 100% of the recommended daily values. These nutrients play a variety of roles in supporting a healthy immune and cardiovascular system, promoting strong bones and skin health, maintaining normal metabolic functioning and healthy tissue growth and repair among many other benefits.
To name a few specifics, vitamin C is a multi-faceted nutrient primarily known for its antioxidant benefits and strong role in immune health. It has also been shown to promote normal levels of cholesterol as well as normal platelet activity. A deficiency in vitamin C has been associated with fatigue and vitamin C is critical in the proper absorption of iron – another nutrient critical for optimal health.
Vitamin D is another nutrient that should be a part of any multivitamin. Americans are deficient in vitamin D and this deficiency can lead to a number of health concerns in bone health and immune function. In addition to those general benefits, research also reports that women may be able to reduce their risk of heart attack by taking a multivitamin daily. Ideally, multivitamins should be delivered in a way where little nutritive value is lost, making the absorption of nutrients highly efficient while delivering maximum results.

Antioxidants: Antioxidants are necessary components in building the foundation for health as every single person is exposed to free radical damage and oxidative stress. These damaging free radicals are linked to numerous health conditions ranging from cardiovascular health to the aging process itself. In trying to combat free radicals, the most important ingredients to consume are proven and researched antioxidants.

Pycnogenol® is the most clinically researched pine bark extract available. It has been shown in a number of studies to possess a very powerful antioxidant effect and it has also been proven to produce positive results related to cardiovascular health as well as inflammation. In general, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are the most powerful natural free radical neutralizers. Other bioflavonoid extracts such as bilberry, grape seed, red wine and citrus bioflavonoids fall into this category.

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In choosing ingredients to provide optimal antioxidant support, an array of these potent antioxidants would be the most effective. Since free radicals are so heavily associated with many diseases and conditions, combatting those would promote far reaching effects in the areas of inflammation, cardiovascular health, joint health, cellular health, among others.

Calcium: Calcium is one of those ingredients easily found in a multivitamin, but the effects are so far-reaching and typically the dose necessary is more than found in multivitamins, so additional supplementation is warranted. As an essential mineral, calcium is a vital nutrient with a multitude of roles for health. Calcium is a primary component of bones, making it a very critical nutrient for everyone. The body uses calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth, where it is primarily stored. In addition to supporting bone structure and hardness, calcium is also necessary for muscular and nervous system function. It also plays a role in the regulation of hormones and enzyme production that affects almost every function in the human body.


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Only about 500 mg of calcium can be absorbed by the body at once, so it’s important to not ingest more than that at once as it will be wasted. Because vitamin D and magnesium are necessary to aid in the absorption and use of calcium, a supplement which contains these with calcium is preferred.

B Vitamins: Another component of establishing your foundation for health involves a complete B-complex formulation. B vitamins are necessary components for numerous metabolic processes and they support hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. Specifically, folic acid, vitamins B6 and B12 help lower homocysteine levels in the blood, leading to a direct, positive effect on heart health. Folic acid and B12 also work together in promoting healthy red blood cell formation.


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Additionally, each of the B vitamins work by a number of different mechanisms to help increase energy, improve mood and cognition and protect telomeres, which help with long-term health. Traditional forms of B vitamins must be converted into usable forms once ingested. By using forms such as methylcobalamin, folinic acid or pyridoxal 5’ phosphate, also referred to as the metabolically “activated” forms, once can be sure optimal utilization is occurring and the effectiveness of these vitamins are enhanced.
While most everyone’s dietary supplementation needs are unique, there are certain ingredients that provide a multitude of benefits and help establish the basic foundation for optimal health!



http://www.HealthyAzKids.com






Monday, December 24, 2012

Multivitamins and Cardiovascular Health for Women

by Crystal Shelton


Cardiovascular disease has many risk factors, some of which can be controlled–such as cigarette smoking–and others which cannot, such as aging or a family history of cardiovascular disease. A new study has found there may be something additional in your control to help reduce your risk of heart attack.
Multivitamins are intended to be taken in an effort to supplement the diet with vitamins and minerals that are not being acquired through food. It is well known that many people are not eating well-balanced meals and acquiring the necessary nutrients, therefore it’s easily understood that multivitamins qualify as one of the most important dietary supplements to be taken.
Vitamins and minerals are the foundation of health and nutrition and are necessary for the body to carry out normal functions. Among the numerous general benefits, a new study reports that women may be able to reduce their risk of heart attack by taking a multivitamin daily.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition included over 30,000 women with no history of cardiovascular disease and about 2,200 women with a history of cardiovascular disease. Both sets of women, aged between 49-83 years old, were asked to complete a questionnaire which asked questions regarding their diet, lifestyle and use of dietary supplements.
After a 10 year follow-up with the women, heart attacks were reported in 269 cases in the group with a history of heart disease, and in 932 cases in the group with no history of heart disease. In this second group, these reports revealed an association of a 27% reduced risk of heart attack in women that took a multivitamin compared to those that did not.
Additionally, in this same group of women, those that took a multivitamin along with other supplements had a 30% reduced risk of heart attack. There was an even stronger link of reduced risk in those women who had taken a multivitamin for five years or longer.
Unfortunately, in the group of women with a confirmed history of cardiovascular disease, taking a multivitamin did not appear to reduce the risk for heart attack. This study strongly suggests, however, that women with no history of heart disease may be able to reduce their risk of heart attack substantially by taking a daily multivitamin.


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Diabetes: Prevalence and Prevention

by Sean Wells


According to the World Health Organization, over 346 million people worldwide are now diagnosed as diabetic, a figure researchers didn’t expect to reach until 2030. The number of cases has doubled since 2005, and diabetes currently stands as the seventh leading cause of all disease-related fatalities.
The Silent Epidemic
November 14th will mark the 21st annual World Diabetes Day, first introduced in 1991 as a response to the alarming rise of this affliction throughout the world. This year organizers are focusing exclusively on effective education and prevention, a perfect theme considering the increasing statistics on diabetes.
In the United States, an estimated 26 million people are affected, and 7 million of these individuals are not yet aware of their status. This is because the disease is very subtle—it is often called “The Silent Epidemic”—and often begins merely with minor increases in blood sugar and insulin levels.
Physiology of Diabetes
Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar, and becoming unresponsive to insulin—one precursor to diabetes—is believed to be caused by chronically elevated levels of blood sugar as a response to stress, and a result of excess sugar and simple carbohydrates in the diet.
Over time, the body’s cells become unresponsive to insulin, and greater amounts must be released to reestablish normal sugar levels—this is known as becoming insulin resistant. Left unchecked, this imbalance becomes cyclical and increases until the body can no longer produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels at all—this is the disease of diabetes.
Because of this close relationship between blood sugar and insulin, diabetics are also at high risk for hyperinsulinemia—chronically elevated levels of insulin that can inflict similar damage to health as unregulated blood sugar. Both can raise triglycerides and other blood lipid levels, and be accompanied by obesity, metabolic syndrome, impaired kidney function, heart disease and stroke.
Prevention is Possible
Fortunately, blood sugar management also amounts to insulin management, and diabetes is one of the few diseases that can be effectively prevented—and in some cases, even overcome—through appropriate lifestyle choices. Used in combination, the elements below can provide an effective first line of defense against diabetes.
A key component is regular exercise, and all forms of exercise have proven effective for maintaining consistent blood sugar levels. Alternating between sessions of aerobic exercise and strength training, so that exercise is performed over the majority of the week, is the most common approach. For those who actually have diabetes, exercise frequency is of the highest importance, and it is recommended to engage in some form of physical activity (such as walking) every day.
Eating patterns also contribute enormously to blood sugar management, and the fact of the matter is that there are more foods available that will help regulate blood sugar than send it spiraling out of control. The well-known glycemic index, developed in 1981 specifically for diabetic patients, has since become a foundational reference in many popular nutrition programs. Making foods that fall on the lower end of this scale the basis of weekly eating, while also minimizing the intake of sugar and other high-GI carbohydrates, keeps both blood sugar and insulin in check.
 
For truly comprehensive nutritional support, there are a number of specific nutrients that have proven effective for blood sugar management:
 
Chromiumthis metal, available in various forms, is regarded by some experts as every bit as important as iron in human nutrition because of the benefits it offers for blood sugar management.

 



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TLS CORE Fat & Carb Inhibitor inhibits the amount of starchy carbohydrates being absorbed by the body. These carbohydrates can elevate blood sugar levels, increasing insulin. This can cause the body to store additional fat, triggering leptin, causing you to eat and over-consume. Finally, TLS CORE Fat & Carb Inhibitor helps to stop the body from converting excess carbohydrates into fat http://bit.ly/SVCKR5





Fiber—certain forms of fiber, such as inulin and glucomannan, have proven effective in helping to minimize blood sugar spikes, and the corresponding insulin surge that occurs afterward.

 
NutriClean® Advanced Fiber Powder delivers top quality soluble fiber, with beneficial probiotics, which promotes the growth of good bacteria in the colon, keeping things in balance in terms of microorganisms. Because it is not broken down by the body, fiber has no effect on blood glucose levels because it isn't digested. So, fiber is a good thing for people with diabetes. http://bit.ly/Rgp3st



Gymnema sylvestre—in its native India, this plant is known as gurmar (“destroyer of sugar”), and this concentrated extract has become well-known as a metabolic mitigator of blood sugar levels.
Vanadium—although recognized as an essential mineral, there is no established RDA for vanadium as of now. Nevertheless, it has demonstrated positive preliminary results for potentially offsetting conditions associated with diabetes.
 
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Niacinamide—also known as nicotinic acid amide and nicotinamide, this specific form of Niacin (vitamin B3) supports carbohydrate metabolism, and is believed to improve insulin response.
 
 
nutraMetrix Isotonix Activated B-Complex delivers metabolically active forms of several vitamins and minerals in isotonic form including Niacinamide, ensuring that your body receives and uses vital nutrients quickly and efficiently.  Hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body are supported by B-vitamins, and vitamin B deficiency can lead to fatigue and lethargy. A B-complex vitamin is one component of eight essential B-vitamins that are critical to metabolism at the cellular level.
.
 
  
In conclusion, while diabetes is routinely referred to as “The Silent Epidemic”, events such as World Diabetes Day are working diligently to sound the alert, and to increase the much-needed sense of urgency in instituting effective intervention practices. By all indications, however, blood-sugar management will still emerge as one of the most effective and most frequently recommended preventative health practices of the early 21st century. Building on the foundational principles listed above is the next logical step, and represents a call to action for everyone involved in the health and nutrition community.

http://www.HealthyAzKids.com
 

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Bad Cholesterol vs. Good Cholesterol


So what do those cholesterol numbers really mean? Here is some information to provide you with a general understanding between “Good” and “Bad” cholesterol.
“Bad” Cholesterol
Low density lipoproteins, or LDLs, are the second smallest of five lipoproteins in the body and carry lipids and triglycerides through the body. LDLs have a lower density of proteins compared to lipids. Low density lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-C), or “bad cholesterol,” is cholesterol that travels through the body while attached to LDLs. LDL-C can have very negative effects on the body, as increased levels can lead to clogged arteries, which in turn can initiate heart disease.
Reducing “bad” cholesterol
It is important to maintain low levels of LDL-C. There are a number of ways that a person can decrease LDL-C, including lifestyle changes and prescribed medication.
Lifestyle changes: One should decrease fat intake and avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and instead include those with monosaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats (found in peanut, canola and olive oils) and soluble fiber. In addition to modifying your diet, regular exercise, reducing alcohol consumption and cessation of smoking can decrease LDL-C levels and increase HDL-C levels, which combat the negative effects of “bad cholesterol.”
Prescribed medicine: Since higher levels of LDL-C have been linked to increased risk for heart disease, doctors may prescribe drugs that counter increasing levels. Drugs that, in conjunction with diet and exercise, may work to increase HDL-C levels include statins and nicotinic acid. Triglycerides, other harmful materials that may be transported by LDL, can be decreased with fibrates.
“Good” Cholesterol
High density lipoproteins, or HDLs, are the smallest of five lipoproteins in the body and carry lipids and triglycerides through the body. High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is cholesterol that travels through the body while attached to HDLs. The body benefits from increased levels of HDL-C because the HDLs remove cholesterol from the arteries and prevent excess buildup which can lead to heart disease. HDL then carries cholesterol back to the liver, where it can be used effectively. HDL-C is thus labeled “good cholesterol” for its ability to push the travel of lipids and triglycerides through the blood stream.
Increasing “good” cholesterol
It is important to maintain higher levels of HDL-C to combat the effects of LDL-C, or “bad cholesterol.” Generally speaking, a healthy person will have about 1/3 of their cholesterol carried by HDL. Women generally have higher levels of “good” cholesterol than men. However, men and women can both increase HDL-C levels with the aid of lifestyle changes and prescribed medication.
Lifestyle changes: Diet and exercise can also serve to raise HDL-C levels. One should decrease fat intake and avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and instead include those with monosaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats (found in peanut, canola and olive oils) and soluble fiber. In addition to modifying your diet, regular exercise, reducing alcohol consumption and cessation of smoking can increase HDL-C levels.
Prescribed medicine: Since lower levels of HDL-C have been linked to increased risk for heart disease, doctors may prescribe drugs that counter decreasing levels, while lowering LDL-C levels. These drugs, in conjunction with diet and exercise, may work to increase HDL-C levels, include nicotinic acid and fibrates.


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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Keeping Kids Healthy and Fit

by Dr. Robert Blair
With the rare exception, going back to school is not something which our kids eagerly anticipate. I know mine is already grumbling about the idea of having to do homework again! For most, going back to school is a simple inconvenience, but for kids with weight problems it can be a scary proposition. While bullying in our schools is prohibited, that doesn’t truly stop it from happening. Additionally, physical education classes can be more challenging for overweight kids, both physically and emotionally. Helping our children maintain or obtain a healthy body weight or obtain a healthy body weight is important for both their health and social experiences.
The Weight-Control Information Network has an excellent publication, Helping Your Overweight Child, which discusses things parents can do to promote a healthy body weight in our children.
Encourage Healthy Eating Habits. Today’s society is typically not conducive to healthy eating. While school systems are now under a mandate to provide healthier menus, the availability of unhealthy food choices and sugary drinks persists. Food advertisements on television generally promote less-than-healthy options, fast food items are still too high in fat, and portion sizes are still too large. This food environment to which kids are exposed can easily lead to consumption of excess calories and excess weight gain. To combat this, it is important to help our children make healthier food choices. Some ideas you can adopt include:
  • Start each day with a healthy breakfast.
  • Serve more fruits and vegetables, both at meals and for snacks.
  • Drink water and low-fat milk rather than sugary beverages.
  • Limit dietary fat intake by serving leaner meats and low-fat dairy products.
Promote Physical Activity Every Day. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, children should get at least 60 minutes of activity every day. Despite this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that only 18% of children met this recommendation in 2007 and only 33% of children attended school physical education classes in 2009. In contrast, the CDC reports that on average children spend 7.5 hours each day in front of televisions, computers, movies and video games. It is clear that many children are not getting the exercise they need. Some ideas for promoting physical activity include:
  • Plan family activities –walks, bike rides, or recreational sports.
  • Encourage your child to join a team sport.
  • Set limits on time spent watching TV, playing video games, and other sedentary habits.
  • Assign chores that require physical activity.
Being overweight or obese has been linked to several chronic health conditions in children, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and bone and joint problems. A healthy body weight is important to reducing children’s risk for these health issues.
In addition to reaching a healthy body weight, dietary supplements can help ensure that our children get all the nutrients they need while developing healthier eating habits. Some important supplements to consider include a good multivitamin, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics.
Multivitamin/Multimineral. A good multivitamin/multimineral is the easiest way to ensure our children meet their minimum daily needs of the essential micronutrients. Many overweight children consume foods high in calories, but low in nutrients. A good multivitamin/multimineral can help them overcome any nutrient deficiencies they have developed due to their current eating habits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, have been reported to have many health benefits for children. In addition to supporting heart health, omega-3 fatty acids have been reported to support memory health, a definite benefit for kids going back to school. In addition to these benefits, studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids might support healthy weight loss in both children and adults.
Probiotics… Probiotics are beneficial bacteria, like one would find in yogurt. Research has suggested that not only does being overweight alter the bacteria naturally found in our digestive tract, but that manipulation of these gut bacteria with probiotics might support healthy weight loss.

nutraMetrix® Might-A-Mins contains 12 vitamins and 10 essential minerals, along with phytonutrients from a proprietary blend of fruits and vegetables. With this formula, your children can enjoy the benefits of fruits and vegetables daily, without them even knowing or complaining about them.  Also added to the formula is a special blend of probiotics, which are good bacteria, essential for proper digestion. Iron has been eliminated from the Might-A-Mins formula due to its potential toxicity http://bit.ly/XrtQxG

nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins Spectrum Essential Omega 3 contains ideal amounts of specific omega 3 fatty acids, which support your child’s brain health and immune function. Kids will like the delicious liquid-like emulsion because they won’t have to take hard-to-swallow pills; adults will like it because it allows for enhanced absorption and bioavailability for optimal absorption. http://bit.ly/R6j9hl

nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics promotes healthy digestion in children by providing beneficial bacteria to support a healthy GI tract, while also promoting a healthy immune system.* http://bit.ly/TBqdRA

http://www.HealthyAzKids.com

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Astaxanthin: An Antioxidant for Aging


An Antioxidant for Aging

 by Sean Wells


Astaxanthin—a recently discovered compound which is both a carontenoid and an antioxidant—is quickly gaining attention in the world of nutritional supplements, and even a quick examination of its properties makes it easy to understand why. By all indications, astaxanthin should soon hold a place among the very best ingredients available for use in anti-aging nutraceuticals.
Researchers are finding links between inflammation—brought on by the unchecked activity of free radicals in the human body—and a myriad of debilitating and even life-threatening diseases. At the same time, scientists continue to prove that supplementing with antioxidants is essential to lengthening and improving the quality of our lives. In the category of antioxidants, astaxanthin displays abilities like no other.
Astaxanthin displays antioxidant potency some 14 times stronger than vitamin E, 46 times stronger than beta-carotene and 65 times stronger than vitamin C. While this is impressive in itself, astaxanthin also has the ability to affect many tissues of the body that other antioxidants cannot reach. Astaxanthin is able to bond effectively with lipids and proteins, meaning that it can merge with and protect both cell membranes and muscle tissue, providing a new layer of defense for cells and an increase in both immediate endurance and long-term recovery ability in muscles.
The most important muscle in the human body, the heart, directly benefits from astaxanthin in this same way. Indirectly, astaxanthin also helps the heart with its benefits for blood profiles—astaxanthin works to both lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) while also increasing HDL (“good” cholesterol) and lowering blood pressure by strengthening blood vessels throughout the body.
Unlike virtually all other antioxidants, astaxanthin is also able to cross both the blood-brain barrier and the blood-retinal barrier. This makes astaxanthin supplementation an effective and unique defense for both the brain and the eyes. By improving blood flow to the retina, as well as providing a new protective layer within the retina, there is the possibility for its application in the treatment of general eyes fatigue as well as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).
It is believed these same improvements in circulation, cell integrity and antioxidant protection might prove an asset for such afflictions as vascular dementia (brain damage incurred through insufficient blood supply) with greater long-term possibilities regarding diseases such as Alzheimers. The debilitating effects of Alzheimers have been linked with the presence and accumulation of yet another kind of oxidized fat, namely phospholipid hydroperoxides—an oxidized fat that astaxanthin is able to handle as effectively as cholesterol.
To summarize, in astaxanthin is an entirely natural substance with amazing potential in the benefits it offers. As compared to other antioxidants, it is far more powerful in its potency and far further reaching in the vital organs and tissues it is able to provide with effective aid. As we age, it is believed that our own internal defenses begin to malfunction or to slow down, and are eventually overtaken by minor but ongoing instances of damage, with some scientists coming to regard this as what the aging process itself really is. If this is true, it seems astaxanthin will rightfully emerge as one of the leaders in anti-aging supplementation.

nutraMetrix® Prime Astaxanthin Cardio & Visual Vitality Formula uses AstaReal® astaxanthin. Guaranteed for high quality and stability, AstaReal® astaxanthin ranks among the purest and most powerful antioxidants available. .  Typical astaxanthin formulations contain only 2-4 mg per serving — an amount which falls short in delivering all possible benefits for the heart, eyes, skin and muscles. Prime Astaxanthin Cardio & Visual Vitality Formula is made exclusively in a 6 mg dose, which is superior for promoting optimal cardiovascular function, supporting healthy vision and skin, blood flow and muscular endurance.* http://bit.ly/TCDAiZ

http://www.HealthyAzKids.com
 

TLS Weight Loss Solution

How it Works

Other programs tell you what they think works; With TLS, it's all about what works for you. TLS is about education and implementation, not limitation. The only limits in TLS are those you put on yourself. Anything is possible when you Live the Lifestyle.
TLS Weight Management Solution encompasses low-glycemic impact eating, behavior modification and body composition, offering an extensive plan that covers everything you'll need to get fit and trim, not just a set of foods you can and cannot eat. In fact, a big part of TLS is helping you make healthy choices while still eating a normal, diverse diet.
TLS teaches you about low-GI impact eating and how to identify new favorite foods, creating new, healthy behaviors, and improving body composition to get your metabolism operating in high gear.
So it's time to get off the diet roller coaster, and time to start Living the Lifestyle.

What you'll Eat

The Glycemic Index measures foods on a 100-point scale. Low-GI foods produce little or no fluctuations in our blood sugar or insulin levels. This is important because when your blood sugar rises quickly, your body increases insulin production, forcing the body into fat accumulation and storage. Controlling the GI of your foods promotes normal blood-sugar levels and enables the body to stay in a fat-burning mode. By changing your diet with TLS, you will feel energized, alert and productive
http://bit.ly/ZLtSDH

Cooking Low GI

It doesn't take a scientist (or a chef) to start cooking low GI. With hundreds of delicious recipes in our database, there are endless combinations that require very little prep time and plenty of room to improvise. You won't be missing out on nutrition, variety or taste.
 http://bit.ly/ZpAhxi

Eating Out

The TLS weight loss solution is meant to be a way of life, and it is certainly designed to include dining out, which is one of life's greatest pleasures. We offer a variety of useful tips for all types of restaurants and cuisine, and encourage you to use them as you like, depending on the occasion. No food is completely off limits at TLS, and enjoyment is a big part of the lifestyle.

Meal Delivery

In the Zone Foods has joined Transitions by offering perfectly portioned, TLS-approved meals delivered right to your door, using only the finest organic ingredients. Choose from Fresh sea scallops, beef tenderloin, ahi tuna and much more. http://bit.ly/16WfHcj

Body Composition

Changing what your food is made of will go a long way towards changing what you are made of, but for real changes, a little more specific attention is needed too. Like our eating plan, our exercise program is another example of beauty in simplicity.



Weigh-ins and Measurements

To document your progress, TLS Weight Loss System offers weekly weigh-ins, monthly measurements and a Daily Journal, all designed to keep you motivated and let you know just how far you've come!





 

 

Weight Loss Accelerators

To help adjust to your new lifestyle and prevent plateaus, we offer a comprehensive selection of specially formulated accelerators-each one addressing a different aspect of your metabolism as it relates to weight loss.

TLS CORE Fat & Carb Inhibitor was created to deal specifically with the weight management issues related to leptin sensitivity.  Do you feel like you’re always hungry and never full? Have you tried other products on the market but still struggle with your weight? If so, you may be dealing with leptin sensitivity.  http://bit.ly/SVCKR5







TLS ACTS Adrenal, Cortisol, Thyroid & Stress Support Formula, specially formulated with Holy basil and Ashwagandha, works specifically to promote healthy adrenal gland function, cortisol levels and thyroid function to help control stress levels and minimize weight gain that is associated with increased stress http://bit.ly/ZgNTkD


NutraMetrix Transitions Tonalin CLA contains natural ingredients that can help redistribute fat to fat burning muscle tissue to assist in promoting lean muscle mass and decreasing the amount of fat stored in your body. http://bit.ly/12yyRob






TLS Thermochrome is a unique proprietary formulation that combines the proven sciences of lipolysis and thermogenics to support increased energy levels and weight loss http://bit.ly/SdEuqN

http://www.HealthyAzKids.com

Heart Health

The heart is comprised of a network of striated muscle tissue known as myocardium. This specialized muscles’ main responsibility is the constant pumping of blood throughout the body. The average human heart involuntarily beats roughly 72 beats per minute in an all-or-none action. The law of all-or-none refers to the fact that the heart will continue to beat and work as long as it is stimulated to do so.
Structure and Function
The human heart has four chambers, two superior atria and two inferior ventricles. The atria are located within the upper portion of the heart, one on the right and one on the left, and are the blood receiving chambers. The ventricles are located within the lower portion of the heart, again one on the right and one on the left, and are the blood discharging chambers. As the heart beats, its four chambers contract (systole) and relax (diastole) in a distinct fashion that allows for continuous blood flow.
The function of the right side of the heart is to collect deoxygenated blood from the body (via superior and inferior vena cavae) and pump it into the lungs so that carbon dioxide can be exchanged for oxygen. The left side of the heart then collects the oxygenated blood returned from the lungs and pumps it out to the body (via the aorta). Blood flows through the heart in one direction, from the atria to the ventricles, and out of the great arteries, such as the aorta.
Heart Disease and Heart Health
Age, sex, genetic disposition, smoking, obesity, stress, diet, as well as other medical conditions can and do affect the health of the heart. Cardiovascular disease or heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Both cardiovascular disease and heart disease are blanket terms used to collectively refer to a variety of diseases/medical conditions that affect the heart. These diseases can affect blood supply to the heart, the heart (cardiac) muscle, heart beat/rate, heart valves, the amount and rate of blood pumped through the heart, and/or the tissues around the heart that support the health and function of the heart.
Although some factors which affect the heart cannot be changed or avoided, there are several things that can be done to improve or retain the health of the heart:
  • Eat a health diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, fiber and omega 3 fatty acids.
  • Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that protect cells from damaging free radicals and necessary vitamins and minerals that help the body perform optimally. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide fiber which not only helps to reduce the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed from food, but also the amount of cholesterol that has already been stored within the body.
  • Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, anchovies and mackerel provide omega 3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanenoic acid (DHA). Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to be effective in reducing overall cholesterol levels and triglycerides, improving blood flow and pressure, and may help to reduce the occurrence of the more severe outcomes of heart disease. For vegetarians or those who have fish allergies, flax seeds or flax seed oil provides a nice alternative.
  • Avoid fried or fatty foods and excessive sugar and sodium intake as much as possible. Eating or drinking products like these often affect weight, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.
  • Lose weight or try to retain a healthy weight. Obesity strains the heart as well as the body overall and has been associated with several severe health related conditions.
  • Exercise often. Exercise can take may forms such as vigorous walking or running, working out at a gym, or just doing yoga or a workout video at home. Exercising on a regular basis helps to reduce stress, retain a healthy weight, and helps to keep bones, muscles and the heart strong.
  • Do not smoke, and drink alcohol in moderation. Both vices can have damaging affects on the body tissues themselves and how the body functions.
  • Supplement when necessary and under the approval of a healthcare provider. Resveratrol, omega 3 fatty acids, coenzyme-Q10, and several other supplements have proven to be effective in helping retain and support healthy heart functioning.
The heart is a very strong, intricate, and yet delicate mechanism that cannot be lived without. Often individuals never think that what happens to others, such as having a heart attack, could happen to them until it is too late. Though growing older does increase the possibility of heart problems, they can occur at any age. The best course of action for keeping the heart healthy is to do as much as possible to prevent damage, not try and retain what is left after damage has occurred.

Cardiovascular Health Regimen http://bit.ly/UbAelA

Isotonix Resveratrol works to maintain cell health, promote normal cell cycle activity, promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in unhealthy cells, support the normal activity of the SIRT-1 gene, and promote cardiovascular health by promoting healthy platelet activity, promoting vasorelaxation, and providing antioxidant protection of LDL particles. http://bit.ly/10r0SwZ

nutraMetrix Heart Health Essential Omega III Fish Oil with Vitamin E provides the three grams of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) that studies reveal is the most effective amount to promote overall cardiovascular health http://bit.ly/PsUDGl

nutraMetrix® Heart Health™ Advanced Co-Q10 contributes to a healthy cardiovascular system, periodontal health, maintenance of normal blood sugar levels, maintenance of cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, sustaining vitamin E levels in cell membranes, energizing the immune system and proper weight maintenance. http://bit.ly/YPLyNa

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