Who Else Wants A Better Memory?

January 8, 2013 by Leave a Comment

It’s a common assumption, that memory loss is just a part of growing older. Now, a recent study indicates magnesium deficiency in the brain may be a contributing factor.

In a prior post, we looked at the importance of magnesium for healthy living.  A new magnesium compound appears to boost the levels of this mineral in the brain, enhancing learning and memory functions.

Dr. Guosong Liu is a neuroscientist with the Center for Learning and Memory at Tsinghua University, located in Beijing, China. He led a study which looked at whether Magnesium-L-Threonate (MgT), could improve short-term and long-term memory in rats. The study’s findings showed MgT improved brain function in both young and aged rats.

In the following video, Dr. Liu discusses his research and its implications for improved memory in the brain. This video is courtesy of ihealthtube.com. If you’re having trouble viewing the video in your browser, please click on this link.

iHealthTube.com – Your Brain Needs More Magnesium

A clinical study of the potential of MgT in humans, is currently being conducted by Dr. Liu in California.

Dr Liu’s research is important because age-related brain health has become a global public health issue. For example, America’s population group of  people age 65 or older was 12.9% of its total population.  It’s estimated this segment of older Americans will grow to about 19% of total population by 2030.  For more information, see the Administration on Aging’s website at this link.

An article on the wellness site NewHope360.com, included the following quote from Dr. Liu:

“Half the population of the industrialized countries has a magnesium deficit, which increases with aging.  If normal or even higher levels of magnesium can be maintained, we may be able to significantly slow age-related loss of cognitive function and perhaps prevent or treat diseases that affect cognitive function.”

For more information on Dr. Liu’s research, check this link to WellnessResources.com.

The Bottom Line:  Dr. Liu’s research of the connection between magnesium levels and brain function has consumed the last 10 years of his life.  The world-wide aging of our population demands as many safe, alternative dietary supplements as possible, to help improve our quality of life.  Time will not wait for us to conduct the proper research.  The time is now.

What will you do when your memory fades?

It’s Your Life, Live Well!

twitt Who Else Wants A Better Memory?

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Filed Under: Anti-aging, Dietary Supplements, Memory & Brain Support, New Research Tagged With: , ,

Will You Beat The Flu?

November 2, 2012 by 1 Comment

Have you had your flu shot?  Do you know for sure, if the flu shot will provide all the protection you need?

In a prior post, I discussed a study published in the journal The Lancet.  The study found that among people ages 18 -65, traditional flu shots were only 59 percent effective in preventing flu.  So, it would appear that you’ll be out of luck if you fall in the other 41 percent.  Is there another way to protect yourself?

Robert Scott Bell, a homeopathic medicine practioner, believes our exposure to flu has been increased by weakened immune systems and liver congestion.  His primary focus is on the impact of a congested liver on your overall health.

In the following video, Dr. Bell explains why he believes better liver health will increase your chances of avoiding the flu this season.  This video is courtesy of ihealthtube.com.

iHealthTube.com – Flu Shot? There’s a Better Defense

I don’t know about you, but I’ve never heard the term liver congestion.  So, I decided to find out more.

What Is Liver Congestion?

I found an excellent article on the topic at the healthguidance.org site.  The article was written by Johnathan Pitts. He decribes liver congestion as follows:

“The main function of the liver is to remove toxins from the body, which includes varied chemical as well as physiological substances.  When the liver is overloaded with work then it can face problems in clearing toxins from your body, which results in congested liver or liver congestion.”

Mr. Pitts goes on to say:

“For getting rid of this it is advised that you follow a detoxification program.”

You can read his complete article by clicking this link to healthguidance.org.

How Do You Cleanse Your Liver?

In his article, Mr. Pitts provides a simple process for detoxing your liver.  He states:

“The best way to get rid of congested liver is to follow a liver cleanse or a detoxification process.  There are a number of natural therapies available for cleaning of the liver, one of these is having stewed tomatoes and tomato juice for a period of two days.  You can replace tomatoes with apple and apple juice.  There are a number of supplements in the market that can help you revive the normal functioning of your liver.”

Folks, it doesn’t get much easier than this.  Also, his suggestion is very inexpensive.  Why not give it a try?

The Bottom Line: I can’t remember the last time I had the flu.  However, that doesn’t mean I’m not at risk this flu season.  I’m going to get my flu shot.  But, I’m also going to do the liver cleansing suggested above.  I personally want to improve my chances of avoiding the flu.  What are you going to do?

It’s your life. live well!

twitt Will You Beat The Flu?

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Can Turmeric Help With Alzheimer’s Disease?

September 25, 2012 by 1 Comment

If I told you that 1 in every 8 Americans over 65 suffer from an incurable disease, what would you say?  Perhaps, you might say “that’s too bad” or how “unfortunate”.  But, what if one of these people happened to be a close relative of yours?  I believe your response would be quite different.

The Alzheimer’s tsunami is here, and it’s about to get much worse.  This disease is the most common form of dementia.

The Alzheimer’ Association recent report, 2012 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, defines dementia as:

“…an umbrella term describing a variety of disease and conditions that develop when nerve cells, called neurons, causes changes in one’s memory, behavior and ability to think clearly.  In Alzheimer’s disease, these brain changes eventually impair an individual’s ability to carry such basic bodily functions as walking and swallowing.  Alzheimer’s disease is ultimately fatal.”

What makes this disease particularly scary, is the 78 million American baby boomers entering the prime age for the onset of this killer.

Some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s include:

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, work or at leisure.
  • Confusion with time and place.
  • New problems with words or writing.
  • Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities.

These symptoms are courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association 2012 report.

Currently, there’s no treatment to halt the progression of Alzheimer’s.  The FDA has approved five prescription drugs for treating the disease symptoms.  However, these approved drugs only provide temporary relief from Alzheimer’s, without any lasting benefits.

Are There Any Natural Approaches To Managing The Symptoms?

Dr. Giovanni Appendino, is a Professor of Chemistry with an Italian university.  His research focuses on the use of natural compounds in preventing medical and cell biology problems.  Dr. Appendino believes the spice turmeric, a staple of Indian cuisine, can help manage or prevent the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  He bases his conclusion on recent laboratory studies with mice, and evidence of low rates of Alzheimer’s disease in India.

The following video is courtesy of ihealthtube.com.

Health Videos – Turmeric and Alzheimer’s Disease

An article on the Mother Nature Network, makes the following statement regarding turmeric:

“The compound curcumin, only found in turmeric, is a widely used spice found in Indian food…The bright yellow spice is familiar to fans of curry dishes, but has been used in other preparations as well.  For centuries, it has been used in Asian medicine.”

While Dr. Appendino is a great scientist, his opinion is based on the results of lab studies on mice.  What’s really needed, is a controlled, clinical study of the effects on turmeric in humans.  Presently, no such studies have been performed.

In fact, the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is rising in India.  A 2009 article appearing in The Times of  India, noted:

“Scientists had earlier said that by 2020 around 10 million Indians above age 65 would suffer from dementia.  By 2040, the number would increase to around 22 million.”

Though India has a huge population, estimated in 2012 at 1.22 billion, the global increase in Alzheimer’s is affecting that country as well.

The Bottom Line:  I believe research in Alzheimer’s disease must continue with a sense of urgency.  It’s not just an American problem, it’s a global health problem.  The thought of a natural approach using turmeric is appealing, but still has to be proven with clinical studies on humans.  So until then, I’ll find a good restaurant and have a wonderful Indian meal.  Would you like to join me?

It’s your life, live well!

 

 

twitt Can Turmeric Help With Alzheimers Disease?

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Filed Under: Memory & Brain Support Tagged With: , ,

Why Omega3s Are Essential For Your Health!

September 4, 2012 by 1 Comment

Have you taken your omega-3 supplement today?  If you have, good for you.  If you didn’t take any today or never have, you maybe missing a great opportunity for better health.

A substantial number of studies have supported the benefits of taking omega-3 supplements or eating fish.  The key is taking at least the minimum recommended daily amounts of EPA and DHA, which comprise omega-3 fatty acids. Here’s just a few of the proven health benefits:

  • Reduced risk of heart attack
  • Lower triglycerides levels
  • Reduced risk of stroke
  • Better eye health
  •  Slower hardening of the heart arteries
  • Healthy support for the brain

Amazingly, there are many other health benefits beyond these stated above. What are you waiting for?

According to Bruce Holub, Ph.D., there’s substantial evidence of the role omega-3s have on heart, eye and brain health.  Dr. Holub has done substantial research on omega-3s and is considered an expert.

In the following video, Dr. Holub explains his opinions regarding the health benefits of omega-3s.  This video is courtesy of ihealthtube.com.

Health Videos – Omega-3 Benefits Brain, Heart and Eye Health

I believe Dr. Holub makes a great case for adding omega-3s to your daily health regime.  However, eating fish and shellfish are another great way to meet your need for this important nutrient. But which fish should you eat or avoid?

What Are The Best Fish To Eat?

The issue of mercury contamination has always been of concern to consumers.  Some fish have probabilities for higher mercury levels than others.

WebMD.com has an excellent article on the role of eating fish to get some natural DHA and EPA into your diet.  Also, Dr. Earl Mindell author of the New Vitamin Bible, has some similar thoughts as well.  The lists below are a combination from both these sources on fish and shellfish, with lower levels of mercury you should eat:

  • Shrimp
  • Catfish
  • Pollock
  • Wild Salmon
  • Canned Light Tuna
  • Sardines
  • Tilapia
  • Clams
  • Oysters

However, these same two sources suggested consumer should avoid eating these fish, because of higher mercury levels:

  • Swordfish
  • Tilefish
  • King Mackerel
  • Shark
  • Fresh Tuna Steaks
  • Sea Bass
  • Halibut
  • Large Mouth Bass

Currently, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating two servings of fish each week.  According to the AHA, each serving should be approximately 3.5 ounces.  However, the WebMD.com article referred to earlier, indicated the FDA suggested up to 12 ounces would be acceptable.  Whatever amount you chose, EAT your Fish every week!

What’s The Amount Of Omega-3s To Take Daily?

The University Of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) has the following suggestions on its website:

“Dosing for fish supplements should be based on the amount of EPA and DHA, not on the total amount of fish oil.  Supplements vary in the amounts and ratios of EPA and DHA.  A common amount of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil capsules is 0.18 grams (180 mg) of EPA and 0.12 grams (120) of DHA.”

However, in the same article, UMM made the following warning for adults:

“Do not take more than 3 grams daily of omega-3 fatty acids from capsules without the supervision of a heath care provider, due to an increased risk of bleeding”

The Bottom Line:  There’s no magic bullet, which can guarantee your health.  However, through a combination of  nutrition, exercise, weight management, and proper supplementation, I believe you can achieve a healthier life.  Currently, I take one gram of omega-3 daily and will continue to consume that amount.

There’s a study released last week from the University Hospital of Ioannia in Greece, which claims its review of 20 studies appear to show no direct link between omega-3 consumption and  the reduction heart disease or death.  I’m reading this study and will let you know my thoughts as quickly as possible.

Until then, I’ll continue taking my omega-3 with full confidence it has positively affected my wellness. You have to reach your own decision, as to whether you want to add omega-3 to your health regime.

It’s your life, live well!

 

twitt Why Omega3s Are Essential For Your Health!

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Filed Under: Anti-aging, Dietary Supplements, Memory & Brain Support, Omega 3s Tagged With: , , , , ,

Don’t Take Coconut Oil Without Reading This!

September 1, 2012 by 1 Comment

The last several years have seen the growing presence of coconut oil, on the selves of health food stores. How can coconut oil, which contains more saturated fat than lard or butter, be considered a health food?

Melissa Clark of The New York Times, wrote an article in early 2011 regarding the emergence of coconut oil on the health food scene. In her article, she interviewed Dr. Thomas Brenna of Cornell University. Dr. Brenna is a professor of nutritional sciences, and an expert on coconut oil.

Dr. Brenna has concluded many studies involving research on coconut oil are flawed. He stated:

“Most of the studies involving coconut oil were done with partially hydrogenated coconut oil, which researchers used because they needed to raise the cholesterol levels of their rabbits in order to collect certain data…”

Dr. Brenna further stated:

“Virgin coconut oil, which has not been chemically treated, is a different thing in terms of health risk perspective. And maybe it isn’t so bad for you after all.”

The partial hydrogenation process destroys the quality of most of the antioxidants and essential fatty acids (EFAs) present in virgin coconut oil. Additionally, this process leads to the creation of trans fats. At issue, are the negative effects trans fats have on reducing your HDL “good” cholesterol, while at the same time increasing your “bad” or LDL cholesterol. All of which increases your risk of heart problems.

Dr.Bruce Fife, ND, is a naturopathic physician practicing in Colorado. Also, Dr. Fife is a certified nutritionist. He’s the author of several books, including The Coconut Oil Miracle.

In the following video, Dr. Fife explains his opinion on the improvement diabetics may see in their condition, by adding virgin coconut oil to their current health regime. This video is courtesy of ihealthtube.com.

Health Videos – Impact of Coconut Oil on Blood Sugar and Diabetes

Dr Fife’s strong opinions are based on his research and interactions with his patients.

From my own research, most experts see nothing harmful with taking organic or virgin coconut oil, as long as you do in moderation. However, I found a wide range of what’s considered moderate usage.

Dr. Fife suggested 2 to 3 “spoonfuls” per day in his video. But, I’ve found other experts suggesting anywhere from 1 tablespoon to as many as 14 tablespoons daily. This concerns me because there appears to be no clear agreement, on what amount of coconut oil should be taken on a daily basis.

Kathleen M Zelman is a dietitian. She stated in a recent article for Webmd.com:

“One tablespoon of coconut oil contains 117 calories, 14 grams of fat, 12 grams of saturated fat and no vitamins or minerals.”

So, if you’re obese or overweight, consuming too much coconut oil may hinder your weight loss goals. You must talk with your doctor or other health practitioner, before taking any coconut oil.

The Bottom Line: It appears virgin coconut oil may benefit some people with certain health conditions. However, don’t go it alone. Discuss your interest in and concerns about coconut oil with your doctor. Also, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. What may be good for one person, may not be good for another.

It’s your life, live well.

twitt Dont Take Coconut Oil Without Reading This!

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