Study finds curcumin effective for depression

According to a new study in the journal Psychotherapy Research, the ingredient curcumin shows promise in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD.

courtesy of Emory University - Woodruff Health Science Center

Researchers provided subjects with 500mg of curcumin daily and continued to monitor their progress utilizing the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), developed in the 1960s and used to rate the severity of depression in adults by probing mood, feelings of guilt, suicide ideation, insomnia, agitation or retardation, anxiety, weight loss, and somatic symptoms.

Not only did researchers find that the use of curcumin improved subject’s ratings on the HAM-D compared to placebos, but that curcumin performed as well as prescription antidepressants:

The response rate of … curcumin (62.5%) on Hamilton depression scale observed in our study is within the known range of studies with currently prescribed antidepressants (31.6%–70.4%) and was higher than the maximum response rate expected with placebo (12.5%–51.8%).

Researchers also found a lower risk of side effects in patients using curcumin. According to the study’s authors:

[This] is the first randomized clinical trial that clearly highlights that curcumin may be an effective and safe agent when used as a modality of treatment in
patients of MDD. Curcumin … has proved to be safe even at supra-therapeutic doses [and] a combination of curcumin with other antidepressants has shown to synergistically increase the serotonin levels and enhance antidepressant-like activity.

The use of antidepressant medications is growing in the United States, as one out of nine Americans over the age of 12 are currently prescribed some form of antidepressant medication.

These medications, under the supervision of a health professional, can do tremendous good for individuals seeking help. However, between the common side effects of these drugs and the belief among some experts that antidepressants aren’t effectively treating patients, there’s reason to seek alternatives.

According to Dr. Steven Hollon, professor of psychology at Vanderbilt University:

I would say at least half the folks who are being treated with antidepressants aren’t benefiting from the active pharmacological effects of the drugs themselves but from a placebo effect. If people knew more, I think they would be a little less likely to go down the medication path than the psychosocial treatment path.

Natural alternatives for mental and cognitive health have always been on the table, but never fully confirmed through studies. That is, until recently.

Traditionally, curcumin has been known to have poor bioavailability, requiring high doses to promote health. Researchers used a specific curcumin – BCM-95 – due to its high bioavailability, which authors cited as a potential reason for the positive outcomes. In recent years, scientists have heavily researched curcumin for its  neuroprotective properties and has been believed a strong candidate for the promotion of neurological health and cognitive function.

Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and support the normal uptake of amyloid-beta in the brain, supporting the brain’s memory and learning abilities as we age. Another neuroprotective property of curcumin is its ability to promote normal levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase in the brain, helping  maintain the health of neurological tissues.

To read the study in its entirety, click here.

Way Beyond Energy! What Else Do B Vitamins Do?

Whether it’s for increased energy, cognitive performance, stress reduction or cardiovascular health, B vitamins play a critical role in your overall health. Moreso, B vitamin deficiency can lead to fatigue and lethargy, which is why B-complex supplements are excellent energy boosters and anti-stress formulas.

However, the benefits of B-vitamins go much further, playing critical roles in metabolism at the cellular level and hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body

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The B-complex is a group of eight vitamins, which include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5) pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folic acid (B9), and cyanocobalamin (B12). These vitamins are essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose, which provide energy for the muscles and brain. The B vitamins also aid in amino acid metabolism and act as coenzymes—compounds that unite with a protein component called an apoenzyme to form an active enzyme. These active enzymes are catalysts in the chemical reactions that transfer all available energy from food to the body. This is part of why the B-complex has come to be known as “the energy vitamin”

The other feature of B vitamins which helps them earn this name is the support they provide in the proper formation of every cell in the body—particularly in nerve cells. B6 and B12 contribute substantially to the formation of the myelin sheath around nerve cells, insulating them and speeding the transmission of synaptic signals throughout the brain

In addition to this support of the actual structure of nerves, vitamins B6 and B12 also work with vitamin B9 to aid in the manufacture of three very important neurotransmitters. Two of these are serotonin and dopamine, which work in tandem to regulate mood, motivation and cognitive abilities. Serotonin is a primary contributor to feelings of happiness and well-being, and plays a secondary role in memory and learning. Dopamine, on the other hand, is primarily involved in motivation, attention and working memory while serving as support in the biochemistry of mood and well-being. Together, they function as a complementary pair. The third neurotransmitter—gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA—regulates general excitability in the nervous system, making sure that all nerve cells are primed for full firing.

All of these neurotransmitters are crucial for optimal brain function and depend on readily available B-vitamins as precursors. B-vitamins are so functional in this regard it is even thought that supplementing with them offers potential benefit in moderating the symptoms of ADHD. As might be expected, a symptomatic lack of physical and mental energy—fatigue, irritability, poor concentration, anxiety anddepression—can all be signs of a B-vitamin deficiency. The fact that B-vitamins are water-soluble and are being constantly eliminated makes it especially important to have adequate intake and regular replenishment.

In summary, B-vitamins are as applicable to the physical aspects of energy as the mental. They are critically important not only for physically expediting the metabolism of energy, supporting nerve structure and providing for maximal neural conduction, but also for providing the brain with the chemical signals necessary to make it energized, invigorated and motivated.

nutraMetrix Isotonix Activated B-Complex delivers metabolically active forms of several B vitamins and minerals in isotonic form, ensuring that your body receives and uses vital nutrients quickly and efficiently

Omega-3s and Your Kids

Dr. Andrew Stoll of Harvard Medical School calls omega-3 fatty acids “wellness molecules.” And no wonder. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids are not only great for the heart, but they also may support a child’s memory, focus, and learning.

What are Omega-3s?

Before you head to your local health food store, there are some things you need to know about omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are a class of fats that come in three “flavors”: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Fish oil and cod liver oil are rich sources of the two most important fatty acids, DHA and EPA. The body converts the third kind—ALA, which is found in flaxseed and various vegetable oils and nuts—into DHA and EPA.

Omega-3s are vital fatty acids (EFAs). That means two things: one, the body can’t produce all the omega-3s from scratch, so these compounds must be part of the diet; and two (and even more importantly), these fats are crucial for staying healthy.

In the 1970s scientists started to study the health effects of omega-3s when they found the link between the low heart disease rate of the Greenland Eskimos and their diet of cold-water oily fish. But a healthy heart was only the beginning of the story. Numerous studies now indicate that the benefits of DHA and EPA are far more extensive than heart health and play an important role throughout your child’s life.

Your Children need Omega-3 Fatty Acids

As infants, DHA plays an important role in the development of the brain, eyes, and nervous system. This isn’t too surprising, since the retina of the eye consists largely of fatty tissue, and DHA makes up 20 to 30 percent of the brain. As toddlers, EPA and DHA can help improve their vision and cognitive and behavioral development. Once your children start elementary school, DHA remains a key component to their success, as it supports their memory, focus, and cognitive development.

Almost every study of behavioral and cognitive problems in children as well as in adults has shown a connection between low levels of omega-3s and severity of symptoms. Of course, as teens and young adults, DHA continues to play an important role. Recent studies have found that it may support hormonal and sexual health, help mood disorders like depression, and protect their hearts.

Getting your Children Omega 3 Fatty-Acid

It is easy for children to have a deficiency in DHA and EPA due to the fact they can frequently be relatively  fussy eaters. The typical American diet doesn’t help either. It’s loaded with omega-6 fatty acids (vegetable oils such as corn and sunflower, and animals raised on grain instead of green vegetation), trans-fatty acids from fried foods, and hydrogenated oils, all of which interfere with the ability of the body to convert ALA to the much-needed EPA and DHA.

Since omega-3s and omega-6s are building blocks for all sorts of hormones and other important compounds in the body, it’s critical that they be in balance. Nutritionists believe that the ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in the diet is somewhere between 1:1 and 4:1. Currently, most Americans consume a ratio of 20:1 or higher.

The easiest way to know your children are receiving enough Omega-3s is a dietary supplement. Adding omega-3 rich food will also help, there’s certainly a wide variety to choose from: eggs, dairy products, cereals, cereal bars, peanut butter, and infant formulas. But do they contain enough omega-3s? There is no U.S. recommended daily allowance, but most experts recommend getting anywhere from 500 milligrams (1/2 gram) up to a couple of grams a day of EPA and DHA. So while fortified foods may contribute, they don’t contain nearly enough omega-3s to make up for a diet that’s low in these important nutrients.

nutraMetrix DNA Miracles™ 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. nutraMetrix®DNA Miracles™l Omega 3 contains no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners – only the nutrients your children need.

http://www.HealthAzKids.com

Product Spotlight: Isotonix Calcium Plus

Isotonix® Calcium Plus is so much more than calcium; one serving provides your body with a healthy dose of vitamin D3, magnesium, vitamin C and boron, too! Calcium can be a hard mineral to absorb, and these nutrients aid your body in the process of breaking it down so you can get the most out of it

In addition to packing extra nutrients that help your body absorb this bone-fortifying mineral, Isotonix® Calcium Plus delivers these nutrients to your body via an isotonic solution that makes it easier for your body to absorb. And unlike tablets and pills, there are no binders, fillers, or other unhealthy additives like chlorine (yuck!).

So why is calcium so important? Calcium helps support bone health, helps maintain healthy immune functions and optimal cholesterol levels, promotes normal regulation of hormones and enzyme production, and supports healthy body weight – just to name a few! While there are a ton of health benefits when it comes to taking Calcium, you should always talk to your doctor before starting a supplement regime to make sure that its right for you!

nutraMetrix Isotonix Calcium Complete provides the body with an optimal blend of calcium, vitamin D3, magnesium, vitamin C and boron in an efficient isotonic solution that is readily absorbed by the body. Isotonix dietary supplements are a replica of the body's own fluids, such as tears, plasma and breast milk.
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Vitamin C and Air Pollution

A healthy dose of vitamin C may be able to fight off the effects of air pollution, according to a new study. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables seems to be good for the lungs.
Researched found hospital patients who suffered from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in London had low level of vitamin C. Their risk for breathing problems also increased when air pollution levels were high.
The study was included 209 patients between 2008 and 2010. Most of the patients were between ages 54 and 74, though some were as young as 18. Many of them were also former smokers.
“This study adds to a small but growing body of evidence that the effects of air pollution might be modified by antioxidants,” said Michael Brauer, an environmental health scientist at the University of British Columbia in Canada.
Some of these antioxidants include vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables. These antioxidants may protect the body from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that damage cells. Free radicals form when air pollution enters the lungs. This can potentially lead to heart disease, cancer and even respiratory illnesses.
The antioxidants bind to free radicals and counteract them before they cause damage.
The researchers paid particular attention to course particulate matter levels. This is produced through the combustion of fossil fuels. The course particulate matter comes from car exhaust and power plants.
The study showed that lung conditions increased as course particle matter increased. The researchers found that with every increase in course particulate matter of 10 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg/m3), there was a 35 percent increased risk of hospital admission for people with asthma or COPD.
For those who had low levels of vitamin C, the risk of being admitted to a hospital was 1.2 times greater.
“The protective effect of vitamin C was still present after excluding smokers and elderly subjects, implying that the effect of this antioxidant was not explained by smoking or age,” Study researcher Cristina Canova said.
Smokers and elderly patients have lower levels of nutrients than those who didn’t smoke.
Those who are concerned should include things such as citrus fruits, broccoli, and spinach in their diet as they are good sources of Vitamin C.
Researchers are not yet sure if this link between Vitamin C and respiratory diseases still holds true for those who don’t already have the diseases.
The study is published in the July issue of the journal Epidemiology.

Isotonix Vitamin C provides superior delivery of the nutrients your body needs in the most cost effective way.   Isotonix Vitamin C contains 500mg of vitamin C per serving, which is an optimal amount for immune system maintenance. In times of illness or distress, it may be helpful to supplement with a higher serving size of vitamin C
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Vitamin D linked to immune system genetics

Researchers have long hypothesized vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor for a wide range of diseases, including cancer, arthritis, diabetes and multiple sclerosis. More in question was “Why?”, which led to the conclusion – albeit relatively difficult to prove – that vitamin D influenced one’s genetic predisposition.
A new study out of Europe might have some of the answers. According to researchers from Norway, the positive impact of vitamin D does go all the way to one’s genetic makeup.
The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that “several immunological processes, immune cell functions and major signaling pathways were differentially regulated according to vitamin D status”:

The majority of genes [studied] were associated with vitamin D deficiency, in line with the hypothesis that vitamin D limits pathological immune responses that may ultimately lead to hypersensitivity or autoimmunity.

Studies on the benefits of Vitamin Dare extensive, and debate is continuing on how much vitamin D one should take. According to guidelines from the U.S. Institute of Medicine, people should consume between 200 and 600 international units (IUs) of vitamin D daily. However, there is mounting evidence from researchers around the world that higher intakes of vitamin D help in numerous areas of health.

nutraMetrix Isotonix Vitamin D with K2 contains vitamin D3, the metabolically active form of vitamin D, along with vitamin K2, a form of vitamin K which supports vascular health and calcium utilization. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health, heart health and immune support, while working with vitamin K to support normal absorption of calcium and promote healthy arteries. nutraMetrix Isotonix Vitamin D is the first of its kind to deliver both of these powerful vitamins with isotonic delivery.
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The Awesome Health Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics have been a pretty hot topic of conversation lately – and if you haven’t heard about them, you’re missing out. Probiotics are often referred to as “the good bacteria” and that’s exactly what they are. They help keep your digestive tract satisfied and balanced by promoting regular bowels and maintaining healthy colon cells. While probiotics can be found in lots of foods like yogurt, miso soup and sauerkraut, you can also take probiotics as a supplement to increase your digestive health. If you want to kickstart a healthy routine, check out this list of the awesomehealth benefits of probiotics.

The Awesome Health Benefits of Probiotics

• Support healthy digestion by helping to produce digestive enzymes.
• Help to form essential vitamins like B and K.
• Support a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria (especially after a round of antibiotics).
• Stimulate the immune system – helping it to resist infection.
• Vital contribution to overall well-being.

Combined with digestive enzymes, these supplements can change your life.

nutraMetrix Nutriclean Probiotics promotes healthy digestion by providing beneficial bacteria to recolonize and balance the GI tract, and hinder the growth of harmful, toxic bacteria, while also promoting a healthy immune system. nutraMetrix Nutriclean Probiotics provides 10 different strains and 10 billion active probiotic organisms. Each strain has a unique purpose, and the strains work synergistically to impact numerous areas of health, from immunity to stomach comfort and bowel regularity.

nutraMetrix DNA Mircacles chewable probiotics provides five different strains and five billion active probiotic organisms. 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.*  Many products claim to provide billions of live probiotic organisms at the time of manufacture but these products are useless unless the organisms are alive when they arrive to you. . nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics uses LiveBac® technology - a process that helps make our product less susceptible to the effects of these damaging factors and extends the shelf life of our product.  

 nutraMetrix Digestive Enzyme Formula with Probiotics helps replenish the essential enzymes (amylase, protease, cellulose, lactase, lipase, maltase, and sucrase) and "good" bacteria (Lactobacillus sporogenes) necessary for maximum absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. It acts to supplement and maximize the activity of the body’s own enzymes in an easy-to-take, pleasant tasting drink.  In today’s world of processed and "fast" foods, our bodies need to work harder to break down the same nutritional content as it may have just a few years ago

DNA Miracles Isotonix Digestive Enzymes   is uniquely formulated to aid children needing additional digestive support. promotes stomach comfort and bowel regularity in children by enhancing enzymatic breakdown of food. The enzymes in this product work to cleave proteins during digestion, making them smaller and easier to digest. Not only does this promote normal digestion and absorption of nutrients, it also promotes bowel regularity.  Poor digestion goes beyond abdominal discomfort. There is a proposed connection between the function of the digestive system and the brain. Research suggests that promoting normal digestion may in turn support physical health. 

 Any probiotics health benefits you have noticed and want to share?