LuminEarth » immune system

Vitamin D and the Immune System

Becki Baumgartner — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 17:42:51 +0000

Courtesy of Nature’s Sunshine

With cold and flu season upon us, good nutrition is vital to maintaining a strong immune system. Studies now indicate that vitamin D, once only recognized for supporting bone health, may be a key nutritional component in enhancing immune function.

Here we provide overviews of some of the recent studies touting the immune system benefits of vitamin D:

A recent study showed that vitamin D signals the immune system to fight infections. Scientists discovered that T cells—white blood cells that are like soldiers who search out and destroy the targeted invaders—require vitamin D to function. The study author explains, “When a T cell is exposed to a foreign pathogen, it extends a signaling device or ‘antenna’ known as a vitamin D receptor, with which it searches for vitamin D. This means the T cell must have vitamin D or activation of the cell will cease. If the T cells cannot find enough vitamin D in the blood, they won’t even begin to mobilize.” From this study, researchers realize how crucial vitamin D is for activating the immune system. The finding could have significant implications in the fight against global epidemics. Nearly half of the world’s population has sub-optimal levels of vitamin D, a problem that’s getting worse as people spend more time indoors.¹
Researchers theorized that the flu season occurs in winter months because of the lack of direct sunlight, and subsequent lower levels of protective vitamin D produced in the body. Their research indicates that influenza epidemics, and possibly even the common cold, are brought on by seasonal deficiencies in antimicrobial peptides, resulting from winter-time deficiencies in vitamin D.²
In a study of Japanese schoolchildren, vitamin D supplements taken during the winter and early spring helped prevent seasonal flu. The study found that children receiving 1,200 IU of vitamin D daily were 58 percent less likely to catch influenza A.³
People with higher blood levels of vitamin D had a 50 percent reduction in the risk of developing acute respiratory tract infections than those with lower blood levels. Additionally, of those with high vitamin D blood levels who did develop infections, there was a marked reduction in the number of days they were ill. Researchers concluded, “Maintenance of a [sufficient] 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum concentration should significantly reduce the incidence of acute viral respiratory tract infections and the burden of illness caused thereby, at least during the fall and winter in temperate zones.”⁴

¹ Von Essen MR, et al. Vitamin D controls T cell antigen receptor signaling and activation of human T cells. Nature Immunology. 2010; 11(4):344-349.
² Cannell JJ, Vieth R, Umhau JC, et al. Epidemic influenza and vitamin D. Epidemiology and Infection. 2006; 134:1129-1140.
³ Urashima M, et al. Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2010; 91(5):1255-60.
⁴ Sabetta JR, DePetrillo P, Cipriani RJ. Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and the Incidence of Acute Viral Respiratory Tract Infections in Healthy Adults. PLoS One. 2010; 5(6):e11088.

Source: Nature’s Sunshine Products. (n.d.). Extracted verbatim with permission from http://www.naturessunshine.com/us/members/content2/Vitamin-D-Supplements/Elderberry-Supplements.aspx

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How to Prevent the Flu — as Easy as 1, 2, 3…

Becki Baumgartner — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 14:47:46 +0000

By Dr. Mercola

Colds are a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days from work and school, and this season is no exception. Americans suffer from approximately 1 billion colds per year, or about two to four colds per year for the average adult.

But why do people start getting sick as the leaves start to fall?

Unfortunately in the US, thanks to the CDC, nearly anyone seeing their doctor for a cold will be told that they are infected with H1N1 and will be added to the already inflated CDC statistics.

However, according to the CBS News study, when you come down with chills, fever, cough, runny nose, malaise and all those other “flu-like” symptoms, the illness is likely caused by influenza at most, 17 percent of the time, and as little as 3 percent! The other 83 to 97 percent of the time it’s caused by other viruses or bacteria.

So remember that not every illness that appears to be the flu, actually IS the flu. In fact, most of the time it’s not.

Nevertheless, as temperatures drop, we begin to congregate indoors and spend less time in the sun. This means our vitamin D levels begin to drop, and we are more apt to spread viruses from one person to another.

It isn’t that these opportunistic pathogens magically appear at certain times of the year—they’re always around. It’s your ability to respond to them that changes with the seasons.

It is important to understand the causes of viral upper respiratory syndromes if you want to avoid them.

The Real Cause of Colds and Flu

Many people believe that colds and flu are caused by bacteria, but this is simply incorrect. Colds and flu are caused by viruses, and using antibiotics to treat a viral infection is inappropriate and completely ineffective.

Viruses are orders of magnitude smaller than bacteria and have entirely different structures that make antibiotics useless. (Occasionally antibiotics are required if there is a secondary bacterial sinus infection or bronchitis/pneumonia, but this is the rare exception.)

It is also important to recognize that, although a virus triggers your cold or flu symptoms, it is not the real cause of the illness.

So, what is the real cause of colds and flu?

My simple and short answer has always been that it’s due to an impaired immune system. That’s still true. However, research has confirmed that “catching” colds and flu may be a symptom of an underlying vitamin D deficiency! Less than optimal vitamin D levels will significantly impair your immune response and make you far more susceptible to contracting colds, influenza, and other respiratory infections.

Although there are many ways you might end up with a weakened immune system, the more common contributing factors are:

Vitamin D deficiency, as previously mentioned
Eating too much sugar and too many grains
Not getting enough sleep
Insufficient exercise
Inadequately managing emotional stressors in your life
Any combination of the above

THE Number One Way to Conquer a Cold or Flu: Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an amazingly effective antimicrobial agent, producing 200 to 300 different antimicrobial peptides in your body that kill bacteria, viruses and fungi.

In the United States, the late winter average vitamin D level is only about 15-18 ng/ml, which is considered a very serious deficiency state. It’s estimated that over 95 percent of U.S. senior citizens may be deficient, along with 85 percent of the American public.

In 2009, a team of researcher’s from Children’s Hospital Boston analyzed blood samples taken from 5,000 children under age 12 and found that nearly one out of five children in the U.S. have low blood levels of less than 50 nanomoles per liter, the level recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. They also found that two out of three children have a level below 75 nmol/L–which is still insufficient, based on most of the research coming out today.

No wonder colds and flu run rampant each year.

The best source for vitamin D is direct sun exposure. But for many of us, this just isn’t practical during the winter. The next best thing to sunlight is the use of a safe indoor tanning device. If neither natural nor artificial sunlight is an option, then using oral supplements is your best bet.

Remarkably, researchers have found that 2,000 IU of vitamin D per day abolished seasonal influenza. This is somewhat surprising, as it is half the dose of what most adults need to achieve ideal levels of vitamin D

Please note that this is far greater than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) advised by public health agencies like the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recently doubled the RDA of vitamin D for children to 400 IU. This new guidance still falls absurdly short of what’s needed to keep kids healthy, especially during flu season.

In order to prevent the flu, children and adults need 35 IU of vitamin D per pound of body weight. So, for example, a child weighing 57 pounds would need 2,000 IU a day of vitamin D.

Adults typically need an average of 5,000 IU per day—but some adults have to take 20,000 to 30,000 IU daily to get their vitamin D level up to optimal levels. Exactly how adults absorb and process vitamin D so differently is still somewhat of a mystery, so the only way to know if your vitamin D level is therapeutic and nontoxic is by having your blood tested.

Not all vitamin D testing is accurate, so make sure your health care provider is ordering the correct test.

Lifestyle Options: Choose Wisely

As you know, I’m not an extremist. I advocate balancing healthful choices with enjoying life, which includes celebrating from time to time.

That said, if you feel yourself coming down with a cold or flu, this is NOT the time to be eating sugar, artificial sweeteners or processed foods. Sugar is particularly damaging to your immune system–which needs to be ramped up, not suppressed, in order to combat an emerging infection.

You must address nutrition, sleep, exercise and stress issues the moment you first feel yourself getting a bug. This is when immune-enhancing strategies will be most effective.

When people come down with a cold or flu, it’s because some combination of factors has weakened their defenses. You might be able to get away with one or two transgressions, but a bucketful of poor choices will cause your immune system to crash. And then suddenly…you’re sick.

When you’re coming down with a cold, it’s time to address ALL of the contributing factors immediately.

This would be a good time to tweak your diet in favor of foods that will strengthen your immune response. Good choices include:

Raw, grass-fed organic milk, and/or high-quality whey protein
Fermented foods such as kefir, kimchee, miso, pickles, sauerkraut, etc.
Raw, organic eggs from free-ranging chickens
Grass-fed beef
Coconuts and coconut oil
Locally grown fruits and vegetables, appropriate for your nutritional type
Mushrooms, especially Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake, which contain beta glucans (which have immune-enhancing properties)
Garlic, a potent antimicrobial that kills bacteria, viruses AND fungi
Herbs and spices with high ORAC scores: Turmeric, oregano, cinnamon, cloves (for more on ORAC, visit www.oracvalues.com)

Make sure you are drinking plenty of fresh, pure water. Water is essential for the optimal function of every system in your body.

Pay attention to how you are sleeping. If you aren’t getting enough sleep, or enough restorative sleep, you’ll be at increased risk for a hostile viral takeover.

And don’t underestimate the importance of regular exercise for increasing your resistance to illness. There is evidence that regular, moderate exercise can reduce your risk for respiratory illness by boosting your immune system.

But at the same time, don’t overdo it. Over-exercising can actually place more stress on the body, which can suppress the immune system–and you don’t want that either. You might just go for a walk if you are coming down with something. Any rise in body temperature will be an unwelcome climate for a viral invader.

Emotional stressors can also predispose you to an infection. Finding ways to manage daily stress as well as your reactions to circumstances beyond your control will contribute to a strong and resilient immune system.

Most of the people incorporating a significant number of these wise lifestyle choices into their daily lives simply don’t get sick. And when they do, it’s mild and short-lived.

Supplements That Send Pathogens Packin’

Supplements can be beneficial, but they should be used only as an adjunct to the lifestyle measures already discussed.

Some of the more helpful ones for cold and flu are:

Vitamin C: A very potent antioxidant; use a natural form such as acerola, which contains associated micronutrients. (By the way, intravenous vitamin C was recently used by a physician in New Zealand to cure a man with “terminal” swine flu.)
Oregano Oil: The higher the carvacrol concentration, the more effective it is. Carvacrol is the most active antimicrobial agent in oregano oil.
Propolis: A bee resin and one of the most broad-spectrum antimicrobial compounds in the world; propolis is also the richest source of caffeic acid and apigenin, two very important compounds that aid in immune response and even fight cancer.
A tea made from a combination of elderflower, yarrow, boneset, linden, peppermint and ginger; drink it hot and often for combating a cold or flu. It causes you to sweat, which is helpful for eradicating a virus from your system.
Olive leaf extract: Ancient Egyptians and Mediterranean cultures used it for a variety of health-promoting uses and it is widely known as a natural, non-toxic immune system builder.

Another treatment that is surprisingly effective against upper respiratory infections is hydrogen peroxide.

My patients have had remarkable results in curing the colds and flu within 12 to 14 hours when administering a few drops of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into each ear. You will hear some bubbling, which is completely normal, and possibly slight stinging.

Wait until the bubbling and stinging subside (usually 5 to 10 minutes), then drain onto a tissue and repeat with the other ear. A bottle of hydrogen peroxide in 3 percent solution is available at any drug store for a couple of dollars. It is simply amazing how many people respond to this simple, inexpensive treatment.

By incorporating these strategies, you’ll be able to nip that nasty little virus in the bud–before it can say, “Big Pharma.”

Order Orgainically Pure, Quality Tested Vitamin D Supplements

Learn About Seasonal Defense, an Herbal Immune Booster

Oatstraw

Becki Baumgartner — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 20:34:57 +0000

OATSTRAW

by Jyll Renee

Botanical name: Avena Sativa

Common name: Oatstraw, groats, wild oats

Habitat: It is grown primarily in the United States

Info: This herb is a popular alternative to standard western allopathic medicine for a variety of problems including building bones, pain relief, calming, hyperactive children, soothing elderly, fighting anxiety, panic attacks, boosting immune system, depression and nervous exhaustion it is also a wonderful anti-depressant.

Personal info: We drink infused Oatstraw in combination with other herbs for the nutrients and strengthening of bones.

*Safe for children

Constituents: saponins, flavonoids, starch, alkaloids, steroids, calcium, iron, B-vitamins, lysine and methionine, the fruits (seeds), gromine, iron, magnesium and zinc

Ref:
www.viable-herbal.com/singles/herbs/s445.htm 1-28-09
www.ageless.co.za/oat_straw.htm 1-28-09

Submitted by: Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

Holistic Detox and Body Cleansing: A Rejuvenation Retreat for Your Whole Being

Becki Baumgartner — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:54:36 +0000

by Daniela Sales

Spring is here and many are reading or thinking about detoxification and body cleansing protocols. The amount of information and number of products on the market with incredible promises are bound to confuse many.

To detoxify and cleanse really means to help body eliminate excess waste and toxic build up. This is important because many of our discomforts and unwanted conditions at their root have toxin and waste accumulation in our bodies. That is why many of those discomforts and unwanted conditions are often resolved by regular application and implementation of a thorough holistic detox and body cleansing protocol. There are many ways to do this and some of the most popular include fasting, Master Cleanse, liver flush, herbal detoxifying teas, vegetable broths, juice fasts, media fasts, etc.

It is very important to realize that your personal practice of detoxification and body cleansing is a very personal experience and really needs to be tailored to you personally and well understood by you. Only when you understand the “Why?”, “When?”, and “How?” of your protocol will you be able to truly embrace it and gain the most benefit from it. It is also very important to define for yourself your expectations and goals of the regular practice of holistic detox and body cleansing. There are no one-time drinks or pills that will with one sip resolve all of the challenges ahead of you. It is your responsibility to objectively assess your own state of well-being and to take steps accordingly to improve and create the level of wellness you envision for yourself. There are many wonderful health practitioners and wellness consultants who can help you collect all the pieces of the puzzle, but it ultimately has to be you personally to put the puzzle of your well-being together. Holistic Detox and Body Cleansing is one of those important pieces of the puzzle.

A thorough holistic protocol shall be cleansing and rejuvenating for physical, mental and spiritual well-being. It shall be tailored to your personal needs and shall offer a time for cleansing and rebuilding your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual bodies. Ideally, your program will be based on real raw organic foods and herbs. On that base of a good cleansing diet each day of your ideal protocol will include some form of movement for your physical body. Implementing several forms of hydrotherapy at various times of day is of vital importance as well. To offer nurture and cleansing to your finer bodies, meditation, mindfullness, presence, and aromatherapy are two tools of great importance. Furthermore, it is important that your protocol address your major eliminative organs and systems in proper order and with proper amount of time allotted for each. That will ensure the most success and the least discomfort in your personal program.

Your experience is of utmost importance. The time you dedicate and invest in your personal wellness will pay you back with state of increased well being which is the basis for your growth and success in all other areas of life. Without your health and personal wellness and strength, you cannot help others or effectively and productively perform in any of your personal or professional endeavors. When contemplating and thinking about weather or not you have enough time, patience, and energy to take care of your own health, remember that without your own wellness and strength, nothing else you look to achieve in life is truly going to matter.

Many practitioners note a long list of reasons for cleansing and it most often includes the following: illness prevention, symptom relief, eliminating a specific condition, providing rest to organs, purification, rejuvenation, weight loss, clearing the skin, improving flexibility, improving fertility, enhancing the senses, increasing creativity, motivation, productivity, relaxing, energizing, etc. All of these are wonderful reasons to contemplate and choose to implement a detox protocol.

Thorough and personalized holistic detox and body cleanse is a healthy living skill of critical importance. Regular implementation of your protocol is one of the most important gifts you can give yourself and a very important investment in your personal state of well-being.

Ideally, you would prepare everything for your time of detox and cleansing ahead of time. In our practice it has shown to greatly improve everyone’s experience if they learn and understand how each of the steps affects them and why they may choose to have it as a part of their personal protocol. It is even better if one has time and space to prepare all of the herbal formulas at home, but when that is not possible it helps to learn how a specific herbal formula is prepared even if it is being purchased already prepared. That not only ensures selection of appropriate and quality formula, but also empowers one with knowledge and understanding so that in future they can adjust their protocol as needed and make some or all of the formulas on their own.

Many books and publications also talk at length about toxicity symptoms that can serve as reasons for one to begin practice of this important healthy living skill. They most often include: headaches, allergy symptoms, constipation, fatigue, immune weakness, sleepiness , sleeplessness, indigestion, congestion, digestive problems, depression, irritability, frequent colds, bad breath, sinus congestion, skin rashes, acne, and many more. However, if we objectively assess the state of our environment, food sources, and personal lifestyle, we must realize that waiting for many of these symptoms to bother us and create problems in our daily life is truly not in our best interest. Embracing the practice of annual or bi-annual detox and body cleansing is a skill that can go a very long way in lessening the effects of stress, environmental toxicity, lifestyle and career demands, food quality, media ‘pollution’, etc.

Here at the Avokado Studio some of our dearest memories and stories come from empowering others to learn and implement this practice into their own lives. Detox Protocol Consultations and Classes are designed with that intention and structured to provide support throughout creation of your personal protocol. It is designed to provide you with knowledge and information about each step. In addition to that it also provides you with the knowledge and ability to prepare and create all of the herbal and food formulas and recipes for your personal holistic detox & body cleansing protocol.

We trust that this brief article will inspire you to create your own protocol this year or to build and improve the one you may already be practicing. If you would like additional support and guidance it will be my honor to help you along the way. Please feel free to email any of your questions to daniela@bodyandmindstl.com

In Health, Abundance, Love, and Light,

Daniela Sales
Reiki Master Teacher and Wellness Consultant
The Avokado Studio of Arts for Creative Living
http://bodyandmindstl.com

FREE Herbal Remedy Recipe every month! Sign up for our email newsletter at http://bodyandmindstl.com

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

The Benefits of Sesame Oil

Becki Baumgartner — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:54:17 +0000

Sesame Oil is a potent antioxidant and the very best natural conditioner for the skin. When you rub it on, it doesn’t stop at the skin the way other oils and creams do. Sesame Oil penetrates to the very marrow of the bone. On the way, it gathers oil soluable toxins and wastes and takes them into the blood stream to be eliminated by the body as waste. It also neutralized oxygen radicals, which are thought to be one of the major causes of aging.

Environmental toxins cause the skin to look old, leathery, and tough. Sesame Oil molecules absorb quickly through the skin, into the tissue to stop inflammatory processes, making the skin look and feel youthful, soft, and resliient.

Sesame seed oil is also a natural sunscreen. If used full strength, it has an SPF 0f 4.

Sesame Seed Oil is cited in the book The Answer to Cancer Is Never Giving it a Chance to Start by Hari Sharma, M.D., et. al., as a cancer preventative.

Sesame oil has a number of health promoting- qualities. First of all, it soaks through the skin really well, so it can work inside the body an not just on the skin. Also, a study by Dr. Edwards Smith found that people who practice daily sesame oil massage have significantly less bacteria on their skin, which may seem like a modest start to preventing cancer. But it’s a start. The bacteria killer in sesame oil is probably linoleic acid, which makes up 40 percent of the oil. Linoleic acid is also anti-inflammatory, which is good for keeping your joints working smoothly and helping avert arthritis. The oil as a whole is good for your joints. It lubricates them, which is something that joints really appreciate.

One study found that sesame oil actually has anti-cancer effects (particularly anti-skin cancer, which makes sense, and also anti-colon cancer effects. The second one doesn’t make as much sense right off the bat, but the oil seeps in to reach beond the surface of the body.) Japanese researchers have found that sesame oil contains antioxidants, which, of course, are the front line warriors against cancer.

Sesame oil is also a wonderful ingredient to use as a base for homemade lotions and oils. It has a pleasant nutty aroma, mixes well with the other ingredients and the final product absorbs quickly so the skin is left soft, supple, and not feeling greasy.

ORGANIC SESAME SEED OIL IS A NATURAL PRODUCT WITH MANY THERAPEUTIC QUALITIES:

It is significantly more effective than salt in treating dry nasal membranes.
It is effective in targeting bacteria causing gingivitis.
It contains oleic acid, an effective reducer of serum cholesterol.
Ayurveda physicians use it to cure sinusitis and other conditions as nose drops, sniffed back into the sinuses.
It is used as an anti-bacterial throat gargle.
It helps joints and flexibility. When using a massage oil, stroke the long limbs up and down and use circular motions over all joints to stimulate the natural energy of the joints. Sesame Oil is an excellent carrier oil when mixed with essential oils.

HOW TO DO A DAILY OIL MASSAGE (ABHYANGA)

Abhyanga is a vital part of Ayurvedic daily care and a key Marharishi Ayurveda technique for supple, youthful skin and overall good health.

Instructions for Daily Oil Massage (Abhyanga):

Heat about 1/4 cup of cured oil to just above body temperature.

Start by placing a small amount of the warmed oil on the palms and fingertips and vigorously massage the scalp. Massage the face and outer part of th ears also if you wish, but be gentle.

Massage both the front and back of the neck, and the upper part of the spine.

Massage the arms next, using a long, back and forth motion over the long bones and a circular motion over the joints. Massage both arms thoroughly, including hands and fingers.

Use a very gentle, circular motion to massage over the heart and a clockwise circular motion gently over the abdomen.

Massage the back and spine next, being careful not to over stretch.

Massage legs using the same long motion over the leg bones and circular motion over the joints, the same as the arms.

Last, massage the feet. Use the open part of your hand to massage vigorously back and forth over the soles. Wait about 10-15 minutes, if time allows before showering or bathing.

Recipe for Sesame Oil Lotion

If you don’t have the time to perform the massage daily, you can obtain great benefits from the use of Sesame Oil Lotion. This is very easy to make yourself. The recipe below is adapted from Rosemary Gladstar’s recipe for Rosemary’s Perfect Cream. The recipe is sized perfect for a Magic Bullet, but a blender can be used as well.

2/3 cup distilled water
1/2 cup aloe vera gel
essential oil of choice
3/4 cup sesame oil
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 oz beeswax

Place distilled water, aloe vera gel, and essential oil in Magic Bullet cup. Place sesame oil, coconut oil, and beeswax in pan over very low heat. Heat just long enough to melt. Pour oils into the Magic Bullet cup and blend until creamy. Pour into cream or lotion jars. Store in a cool location.

Why Organic? Commercial oils, grown by agribusiness, use all the agricultural poisions necessary to produce the largest crop. Thre are no molecules of those poisons in organic oil.

Why Cold Pressed? Commercial oils are extracted with strong petroleum based solvents and heat to 450 degrees F. Such heat changes the excellent monounsaturated (oleic acid) fats to trans fats which are poisonous to the body.

Order Organic Sesame Seed Oil from Marharishi Ayurveda

Shop for the book The Answer to Cancer is Never Giving it a Chance to Start by Hari Sharma, M.D., & Rama K. Mishra, G.A.M.S. with James G. Meade, Ph.D.

Shop for the book Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health: 175 Teas, Tonics, Oils, Salves, Tinctures, and Other Natural Remedies for the Entire Family

Sources:

Gladstar, R. (2008). Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. New York: Story Publishing.
Marharishi Ayurveda. “Total Health Solutions” Spring 2010.
Sharma, H., Mishra, R. and Meade, J. “The Answer to Cancer is Never Giving it a Chance to Start”. pp. 114-115. New York: Select Books, Inc., 2002.

Antioxidants and Why We Need Them: A Brief Overview

Becki Baumgartner — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 02:24:55 +0000

by Daniela Sales

There is definitely no lack of information about antioxidants. Their name is quickly becoming a part of everyone’s vocabulary. They definitely are great allies in our journey of creating and maintaining wellness and health. However, we must realize that their use is not a substitute for a healthy diet, physical activity, and nurture and care for our mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. Antioxidants are definitely an important and ciritical part of the puzzle, but not a replacement for any part of healthy lifestyle and not a ‘magic pill’ as many advertisers would like us to believe.

In order to understant the importance of antioxidants we must understand free radicals.

Free radicals perform many critical functions in our bodies, but also contribute to and cause disease. Free radicals constantly form throughout our bodies. If not quickly trapped, they can create many problems by oxidizing DNA and creating environment for cancer, targeting fat cells and creating environment for heart disease and premature aging. It is in our best interest to keep them controlled by maintaining the advantage of antioxidants so that they do their job and not cause disease.

So called network antioxidants are of great importance to our health. Back in the late 1990s Dr Packer designated five antioxidants that work together within what he named the Antioxidant Network. The antioxidants he considered to be part of this network are lipoic acid, CoQ10, glutathione, Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

Lipoic acid offers protection against cataracts, stroke and heart disease, prevents brain aging, turns off bad genes, and boosts the entire antioxidant network. What is remarkable about lipoic acid is that it can recycle all of the network antioxidants and it can regenerate itself (Packer, 1999, p. 32). Lipoic acid shows tremendous value in treatment of liver disease, and we can see significant success in its use for this purpose from cases reported by Burton Berkson, M.D., PhD who was able to save lives of numerous patients with liver disease like Amanita mushroom poisoning, hepatitis C, and severe liver infection. (Packer, 1999, p. 42) Lipoic acid also has tremendous benefits for controlling symptoms and preventing problems associated with diabetes. Dr. Dan Ziegler and Dr. F. Arnold Gries from Germany found that treatment with lipoic acid stimulated regeneration of nerve fibers in diabetics reducing pain and numbness associated with neuropathy within three weeks of patients’ taking 6oo mg of lipoic acid. (Packer, 1999, p. 47)

CoQ10 is a fat soluble antioxidant that has been used for many years to prevent and treat heart disease, but it also helps rejuvenate brain cells, and is being investigated as treatment for breast cancer. Within the network it regenerates vitamin E. Study by Dr. Folkers conducted in Denmark showed significant benefits of CoQ10 for those affected by cancer. (Packer, 1999, p. 101)

Glutathione is critical for body to detoxify from drugs and pollutants, maintain healthy liver function, and keep immune system running high. It is part of storage and transport of amino acids and is cell’s primary antioxidant. One of the best ways to boost levels of glutathione is to supplement with lipoic acid.

Vitamin E is well known as an anti-aging antioxidant. It provides help in protection from UV damage to the skin, helps relieve symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, and has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and inhibit growth of breast cancer cells. (Packer, 1999, p. 54) Dr. Tappel proved back in 1954 that vitamin E could stop oxidation of lipids in the blood. Vitamin E was also found by the National Institute on Aging to be a powerful cancer fighter as well as protector from heart disease. (Packer, 1999, p. 58) To reap all the benefits vitamin E can offer it is important to supplement both mixed tocopherol and tocotrienol forms of this vitamin.

Vitamin C provides connection between fat-soluble and water-soluble antioxidants and it recycles vitamin E better than lipoic acid. It helps protect DNA from free radical damage, protects sperm from free radical damage, strengthens the immune system, protects against cataracts, suppresses viral genes, strengthens the connective tissue, and is essential for great skin.

Dr Packer also identified following important boosters for the antioxidant network: flavonoids, gingko biloba, pycogenol, carotenoids, and selenium. These important antioxidants significantly boost performance of the antioxidant network.

Flavonoids are compounds found in plants and are very powerful antioxidants. It is believed that because of their high intake of flavonoids French are able to eat foods laden with fat and still have low incidence of heart disease.

Gingko and pycogenol can, among other powerful benefits, regulate nitric oxide and help maintain its optimal levels important for many vital functions and for health of cardiovascular system specifically. Gingko has been used in China since 2800 B.C. for problems with brain function, heart, and circulation, but it was discovered that gingko can also quench superoxide and the hydroxyl radical, two powerful and potentially dangerous radicals. (Packer, 1999, p. 122) Pycogenol was shown to extend lifetime of vitamin C, boost production of vitamin E and gluthatione, and quench superoxide, nitric oxide, and the hydroxyl radical. (Packer, 1999, p. 126)

Selenium works in synergy with vitamin E, protects us from many different forms of cancer, benefits our heart functions, and is necessary for production of several enzymes. It is however important to note that high doses of selenium can be toxic. (Packer, 1999, p. 143)

Above is just a very brief and basic overview of things we shall know about antioxidants. If you take nothing else from this article, it is my hope that you will remember that antioxidants are an important part of our holistic healthy lifestyle and wellbeing, but that they are not a replacement for other healthy living skills. The goal of this brief overview is to put basic information on antioxidants in simple and usable terms and at the same time remind you that lasting health and wellness is achieved only when we exercise our creativity in a constructive way, nurture all aspects of our being (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual), and live in synch and alignement with our purpose. The state of our health directly affects our success in other areas of our life and as important as our mental and spiritual development are, health of our physical body is of just as much importance.

May this article serve as a little spark of motivation to add another piece of the puzzle to your healthy and empowered lifestyle.

As always, please feel free to email any of the questions we may be of assistance with.

In Health, Abundance, Love, and Light,

Daniela Sales
daniela@bodyandmindstl.com
Reiki Master Teacher and Wellness Consultant
The Avokado Studio of Arts for Creative Living
http://bodyandmindstl.com

FREE Herbal Remedy Recipe every month! Sign up for our email newsletter at http://bodyandmindstl.com .

223 S Kirkwood, Suite C
St Louis, MO 63122
P: 314 599 3649

Walk In Hours:

Mon – Fri 9am to Noon
Mon, Wed, Fri 5pm to 8pm
Sat 10am to 1pm

Other times by appointment only. Please email or call to schedule.

References

Packer, L., Colman, C. (1999). The Antioxidant Miracle. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

References:

Packer, L., Colman, C. (1999). The Antioxidant Miracle. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

MonaVie M(m)un Juice Said to Boost Immune System

Joyce Dierschke — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:54 +0000

After a much anticipated release, I finally had the chance to give MonaVie’s latest product a try…and it’s good!

The new juice is called (M)mun (pronounced “mune”, as in “immune”) and it joins a family of some of the most potent antioxidant juices available on the market today. MonaVie products are known for being thoughtfully and conscientiously developed health and wellness products backed by solid science.

Like the rest of its impressive family (M)mun tastes great and if it delivers on the health benefits it is said to have, I predict a big winner for MonaVie drinkers and distributors.

What Makes (M)mun So Special?

Optimize your body’s natural defenses. MonaVie (M)mun is a beneficial blend of 19 fruits and Wellmune® —clinically shown to promote proper immune function. Formulated with antioxidant rich MVao², a proprietary complex featuring the superfruits açai and maqui, this delicious juice helps protect your body year-round. It’s your daily defense for a healthier life.

What is Wellmune®?

Wellmune® is a natural ingredient that supports the body’s natural defenses by promoting healthy immune function. This unique, patent-protected compound, a beta-glucan polysaccharide (or complex carbohydrate), is produced from a proprietary strain of baker’s yeast. In several clinical trials involving hundreds of participants, Wellmune has been shown to support the immune system’s innate ability to fight a wide range of challenges.

How does Wellmune® work in the body?

The immune system is a highly complex network of specialized cells that protect against opposing elements foreign to the body. Wellmune^® works by preparing key immune cells for action. These special immune cells called neutrophils require beta-glucan polysaccharides to properly function. By introducing a nutritional source of beta-glucan to the body, the immune system is better prepared to identify and neutralize these challenges.

A New Choice for A New Millennium

We are the future. The choices we make today will lead the way into the next millennium and beyond. Do we really want to continue masking our symptoms with drugs? Do we really want to keep risking our health in the name of saving our health, as we do with the immunizations that are pushed on us? All we need to sustain our health and well being exists in nature. MonaVie products, including the new (M)mun are all natural alternatives.

Of course I’m not suggesting that you drop your prescriptions and stop listening to your doctors, only that you open your minds to natural alternatives. Our bodies are amazing instruments and with the right nutrients, they will sustains into fit and fruitful golden years. I believe the MonaVie family of products can go a long way in getting us back on track to great health – naturally – oh, and did I mention that they taste great?

If you’re interested in trying (M)mun, or any MonaVie product, please click here.

Why Do People Really Get Sick?

Becki Baumgartner — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 23:53:02 +0000

By Dr. Mercola

David “Avocado” Wolfe has been an advocate of raw food for 16 years. He is a world authority on raw foods and superfoods who coaches Hollywood celebrities and leading business people on nutrition and wellness.

Here he interviews yours truly on why raw food is such an important part of living healthy and preventing disease.

Join me next month at the David Wolfe’s Longevity Conference from March 26th to March 28th in southern California. Should be a wonderful opportunity to break away from the cold winter and enjoy a preview of spring and learn loads of information on how to stay healthy.

DR. MERCOLA’S COMMENTS

David “Avocado” Wolfe has been an advocate of raw food for 16 years. He is a world authority on raw foods and superfoods who coaches Hollywood celebrities and leading business people on nutrition and wellness.

Here he interviews yours truly on why raw food is such an important part of living healthy and preventing disease.

One of the key reasons why many people are getting sick with “modern-day” diseases like heart disease, cancer, obesity and diabetes is relying on processed food as their primary form of nutrition.

Ninety percent of foods Americans purchase every year are processed foods, and food marketers do a masterful job at making it seem like fast foods and junk foods are the obvious choice.

But these processed foods, are dead and devoid of any natural nutrition. The fact that they taste good is the culmination of a profitable science of artificial flavors and additives, without which most processed food would taste and look like cardboard.

But what the food industry neglects to tell you is that there is a heavy price for consuming this terrible diet. For the sake of convenience or good taste now, you are trading one of the most valuable assets that you have, your health.

One of the “side effects” of eating a largely processed food diet is that it means you’re also consuming foods that are loaded with high-fructose corn syrup. High-fructose corn syrup is the single greatest source of calories in their diet, as it is in the entire United States.

This food ingredient alone is enough to completely wreck your health, and it is only one of the dangerous ingredients in processed foods.

Are You Addicted to a Deadly Diet?

Processed foods are typically chemically altered to increase the appeal to your taste buds, so they can override your body’s signals that would otherwise tell you it’s time to stop eating.

These foods are pumped full of unnatural amounts of sugar, corn syrup, salt, MSG and many others, which radically increases the likelihood of becoming addicted to them.

In one study of rats fed a diet containing 25 percent sugar, they became anxious when the sugar was removed — displaying symptoms similar to people going through drug withdrawals, such as chattering teeth and the shakes.

The researchers conducting the study found a link between opioids, your brain’s ‘pleasure chemicals,’ and a craving for sweet, salty and fatty foods. It is thought that high-fat foods stimulate the opioids, as when researchers stimulated rats’ brains with a synthetic version of the natural opioid enkephalin, the rats ate up to six times their normal intake of fat.

Further, long lasting changes in rats’ brain chemistry, similar to those caused by morphine or heroin use, were also noted. According to researchers, this means that even simple exposure to pleasurable foods is enough to change gene expression, which suggests an addiction to the food.

Too Much Processed Foods Can Ruin Your Taste Buds

Meanwhile, refined sugar, which is in nearly every processed food out there, because it is inexpensive and improves the flavor of the food, has been proven to be more addictive than cocaine!

Your body’s sweet receptors (two protein receptors located on your tongue), which evolved in ancestral times when the diet was very low in sugar, have not adapted to modern times’ high-sugar consumption.

Therefore, the abnormally high stimulation of these receptors by sugar-rich diets generates excessive reward signals in your brain, which have the potential to override normal self-control mechanisms, and thus lead to addiction.

This is why, if you regularly eat a diet of processed foods, whole foods seem to lack flavor. You have become conditioned to think that these chemically altered foods are the norm, when in fact the opposite is true.

The unfortunate reality is that when you eat a processed food diet, it leads to an avalanche of negative changes in your body. One of these is elevated insulin levels, and ultimately insulin resistance.

The positive health impacts of breaking the processed food addiction in the United States would be even greater than if everyone stopped smoking, because elevated insulin levels are the foundation of nearly every chronic disease known to man, from cancer and arthritis to cardiovascular disease.

If You Give Up Processed Foods, What Should You Eat? Raw Food!

Ideally you’ll want to eat as many foods as possible in their unprocessed state; typically organic, biodynamic foods that have been grown locally, and are therefore in season.

But the challenge is, even when you choose the best foods available you can destroy most of the nutrition if you cook them.

I believe it’s really wise to strive to get as much raw food in your diet as possible. I personally try to eat about 85 percent of my food raw, including raw eggs and humanely raised organic animal products that have not been factory farmed. And there are a number of reasons for this.

For starters, cooking your food, especially at high temperatures, destroys naturally occurring enzymes. Enzymes are proteins; catalysts to speed up and facilitate reactions in your body. In fact, some biochemical reactions will not even occur without these enzymes (you have about 1,300 of them).

So if all of your food is cooked, your body is going to be deficient in the enzymes it needs to function properly.

Your Body Craves Biophotons

Enzymes are very important, but the primary reason for making sure you get plenty of raw food in your diet is due to what’s called ‘biophotons.’ It’s a term you may not have heard of before, but in Europe, Germany in particular, there’s significant research in this area.

Biophotons are the smallest physical units of light, which are stored in, and used by all biological organisms – including your body. Vital sun energy finds its way into your cells via the food you eat, in the form of these biophotons.

They contain important information, which controls complex vital processes in your body. The biophotons have the power to order and regulate, and, in doing so, to elevate the organism – in this case, your physical body — to a higher oscillation or order.

This is manifested as a feeling of vitality and well-being.

Every living organism emits biophotons or low-level luminescence (light with a wavelength between 200 and 800 nanometers). It is thought that the higher the level of light energy a cell emits, the greater its vitality and the potential for the transfer of that energy to the individual which consumes it.

The more light a food is able to store, the more nutritious it is. Naturally grown fresh vegetables, for example, and sun-ripened fruits, are rich in light energy. The capacity to store biophotons is therefore a measure of the quality of your food.

Now, the DNA inside each of your body’s cells vibrates at a frequency of several billion hertz (which is unfortunately the same range at which modern cell phone communication systems also work). The vibration is created through the coil-like contraction and extension of your DNA — which occurs several billion times per second — and each time it contracts, it squeezes out one single biophoton; a light particle.

All the biophotons emitted from your body communicate with each other in a highly structured light field that surrounds your body. This light field also regulates the activity of your metabolic enzymes.

For more in-depth information about how this works, I recommend you view the video clip of my interview with Dr. Klinghardt.

Switch to More Raw Foods Gradually

Many people feel that if they can’t eat their favorite junk foods, they are being deprived. In reality, the sooner you switch your eating habits, the sooner you’ll enjoy increased energy, normalized weight, a better mood and improved health overall.

Knowing this, many initially succeed at implementing an improved diet, but then fall back into old habits… and therefore, the “old” body.

To avoid this, I recommend you make the changes to your diet gradually, starting with making one meal a day raw, then increasing from there.

Again, I personally try to eat about 85 percent of my food raw, and would encourage you to strive for a similar level of raw food in your diet.

Remember You Can Join Me Next Month

I will be speaking at the David Wolfe’s Longevity Conference from March 26th to March 28th in southern California. Should be a wonderful opportunity to break away from the cold winter and enjoy a preview of spring and learn loads of information on how to stay healthy.

Our World, Illuminated.

www.luminearth.com

Processed Foods and Our Children

Becki Baumgartner — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:18:35 +0000

Processed Foods and our Children
by Daniela Sales

There truly is no lack of processed foods designed to speak directly to and appeal to our children. Simple walk through any grocery store (even a health oriented grocery store) easily confirms this. Taking a closer look at the individual items and their ingredients reveals a rather sad picture. These foods seem to be abundant in fillers and artificial and chemical additives, while being seriously poor in nutritional value. Food items like cereals, snacks, instant soup mixes, instant macaroni and cheese mixes, juices, breads, cookies, pizzas, spreads, canned foods, condiments, and many others are routinely marketed directly to our children. As processed foods they are not only a rather questionable nutrition choice, but may even be responsible for many things our society is striving to eliminate. What are the most common unwanted ingredients found in these processed food items?

To answer this question we shall take a walk through a local grocery store. There we notice many pretty packages and promises of amazing nutrient abundance. However, true story about each of those products is written on their Ingredients List, usually found below the nutritional panel on the back of the package.
It appears to be impossible to find a processed food item created for children (or adults) that does not contain one or more of the following: hydrogenated oils, added sugars, high sodium levels, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, coloring agents, BHT, BHA, sulfites, trans fats, refined sugars, MSG, etc. Along with these unwanted ingredients, these products feature a loving cartoon character or a cool super hero. Right alongside the super hero image usually appear several nutritional claims designed to comfort parents while purchasing the item for their child. These foods which are very poor in their nutritional value, and may in truth be harmful to the health of our children; abound in today’s grocery stores. They are marketed in various and rather aggressive ways, while their ingredients reveal a very disturbing story. It is by now common understanding that candy and sugary snacks shall be avoided regardless of the marketing campaign image. However, there are many processed foods marketed specifically to children that are not in their best interest, but have an image of appropriateness and even one of supporting wellness.

One of the most critical steps on the way to counteracting the influence of product promotion is wellness education. Creating wise and wellness oriented consumers shall be one of our priorities. When one understands how to correctly read the food label and furthermore understands the effects that listed ingredients have on their health and health of those they are buying for, many choices take a different turn.
Along with consumer education, continued efforts in limiting advertising to children through media, schools, and extracurricular activities are another important aspect. If we are to truly show concern and willingness to positively impact the health and development of our children, then as a society we shall create a safe and nurturing environment for our children. Instead of allowing various corporate giants to lure our children into buying foods that will make them fly like a superhero or run like an ‘Incredible’, we shall be creating an environment where children will have abundant opportunities to engage in their food growing and selection while learning of the impact they have on their little bodies.

As we have already said, it is of critical importance for parents to be educated and knowledgeable about the true nutritional (non)value of processed foods dressed up in all kinds of fun shapes, colors, and costumes calling out to our children. With that knowledge, wise choices and nurturing guidance for our children will be much more realistic and much more readily imparted.

Modeling healthy choices is the first step, but teaching our children to make their own wise choices is a necessary and critical next step especially now that we are faced with such an overwhelming number of processed foods, poor in nutritional value, and marketed to appeal directly to our children. We must have empowered parents able to empower today’s children to make wise health supporting choices without feeling “un-cool” or “less than”, but strong, wise, and healthy.

In Health, Abundance, Love, and Light,

Daniela Sales
daniela@bodyandmindstl.com
Reiki Master Teacher and Wellness Consultant
The Avokado Studio of Arts for Creative Living
http://bodyandmindstl.com

FREE Herbal Remedy Recipe every month! Sign up for our email newsletter at http://bodyandmindstl.com

223 S Kirkwood, Suite C
St Louis, MO 63122
P: 314 599 3649

Walk In Hours:

Mon – Fri 9am to Noon
Mon, Wed, Fri 5pm to 8pm
Sat 10am to 1pm
Other times by appointment only. Please email or call to schedule.

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by or sanctioned by the FDA. Only your doctor can properly diagnose and ctreat any disease or disorder. The remedies discussed herein are not meant to treat or cure any type of disease. The user understands that the above information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician or a pharmacist.

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules

Becki Baumgartner — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:56:18 +0000

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules
by Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist

Stinging Nettle
Botanical name: Urtica dioica

Stinging Nettle is often used to reduce inflammation in allergic responses, arthritis and lupus. A favorite today of many herbalists in the treatment of high blood pressure.

Being very high in iron, chlorophyll and vitamin C, it is also a good tonic for treating anemia, especially if used as an infusion over many weeks.

Nettle is very nourishing to the whole system, specifically the adrenals and kidneys. It’s also a helpful uterine tonic. The high chlorophyll and mineral content are good for the hormonal system.

The roots are used for treating hay fever. In low doses, the root extract stimulates the production of T cells, which help control the immune cells causing the allergic reaction, and will actually rid you of allergies.

Medical Uses and Benefits of Nettles (Stinging)
Botanical name: Urtica dioica

• A highly nutritive herb with a broad range of actions.
• Nettles have an alkalizing effect upon the body.
• Used to increase circulation.
• A specific for arthritis and rheumatism.
• Great for the joints.
• Used in pain and inflammation issues.
• One of the few herbs for the thyroid gland.
• A strong detoxifier of the skin.
• Being alkaline it neutralizes acids (like uric and sulfuric acids).
• Somewhat of a haemostatic (stops bleeding).
• Feeds the body nutrition, especially potassium and iron (although it is also full of minerals).
• Useful in circulation issues, somewhat of a vasodilator.
• Promotes the flow of urine and is useful for kidney stones.
• Shrinks swollen tissues.
• Excellent for pregnancy, nutrition, and for anti-abortive issues.
• Used in cases of bronchitis especially asthma, emphysema and C.O.P.D.
• Nettles are an expectorant (removes mucus) and have adaptogenic properties in aiding the body to build up immunity to allergies.
• Used for anemia.
• A great blood purifier and body regulator.

Note: This tea is wonderful for children as well. A couple yummy ways of adminstering the tea to children is to use the tea for the water in jello or make popcicles. Add a little Lemon Balm (Melissa) to the popcicles with sweetner for a lemony taste. Kids love it!

Jyll Reneé, Master Herbologist
765.644.0312
jyllrenee@comcast.net

Three Locations:

Home Office
45 Cambridge court
Anderson, Indiana 46012

Healthy Living Therapeutics
6252 W. Kilgore Ave
Muncie, IN 47304

Days Healthy Living
1110 S. Peru Street
Cicero, Indiana 46034

Our World, Illuminated.
www.luminearth.com

LuminEarth » immune system

Vitamin D and the Immune System

Related Links

How to Prevent the Flu — as Easy as 1, 2, 3…

Related Links

Oatstraw

Related Links

Holistic Detox and Body Cleansing: A Rejuvenation Retreat for Your Whole Being

Related Links

The Benefits of Sesame Oil

Antioxidants and Why We Need Them: A Brief Overview

MonaVie M(m)un Juice Said to Boost Immune System

Why Do People Really Get Sick?

DR. MERCOLA’S COMMENTS

Are You Addicted to a Deadly Diet?

Too Much Processed Foods Can Ruin Your Taste Buds

If You Give Up Processed Foods, What Should You Eat? Raw Food!

Your Body Craves Biophotons

Switch to More Raw Foods Gradually

Remember You Can Join Me Next Month

Processed Foods and Our Children

Processed Foods and our Children
by Daniela Sales

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules
by Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist

LuminEarth » immune system

Vitamin D and the Immune System

Related Links

How to Prevent the Flu — as Easy as 1, 2, 3…

Related Links

Oatstraw

Related Links

Holistic Detox and Body Cleansing: A Rejuvenation Retreat for Your Whole Being

Related Links

The Benefits of Sesame Oil

Antioxidants and Why We Need Them: A Brief Overview

MonaVie M(m)un Juice Said to Boost Immune System

Why Do People Really Get Sick?

DR. MERCOLA’S COMMENTS

Are You Addicted to a Deadly Diet?

Too Much Processed Foods Can Ruin Your Taste Buds

If You Give Up Processed Foods, What Should You Eat? Raw Food!

Your Body Craves Biophotons

Switch to More Raw Foods Gradually

Remember You Can Join Me Next Month

Processed Foods and Our Children

Processed Foods and our Children by Daniela Sales

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules by Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist

Processed Foods and our Children
by Daniela Sales

Healing with Nettle Tea or Capsules
by Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist