VitaBlog The Vitacost Blog: Views and News on Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs

Hyaluronic acid to perk up the joints and skin

Hyaluronic acid is a compound essential to human tissue. It occurs in abundance in the vitreous humor of the eye and is a component of synovial fluid and subcutaneous tissue. So why on earth would anyone want to take a Hyaluronic acid supplement? Good question.

Reason one: FDA approved HA products are currently being used to treat bone and joint disorders common to the back, knees, elbows and shoulders. The theory here, is, that replenishing diminished supplies of HA through supplementation might at least temporarily relieve some pain and discomfort.

Reason two: hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in skin and diminishes with age, causing skin to look dry, wrinkled and rigid. As a result, the use of hyaluronic acid in cosmetic injections, body creams, lotions and oral supplements have become popular among the anti-aging set.

What's not so pretty, though, is how we arrive at medicinal. It's often biosynthetically engineered from bacteria such as streptococci or extracted from animal sources such as rooster combs and bovine vitreous humor, both of which contain high levels of HA. Research also suggests that the purification of hyaluronan from the vitreous humor of fish has begun to show promising results. 

Glutamine Good for Exertion!

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and a supplement made popular by the bodybuilding world. It's best known at high levels for stopping the breakdown of muscles, or more physiologically put - catabolism. Catabolism occurs normally during physical exertion and is reversible to a certain extent when muscles are allowed to rest and recover. If you've ever worked out or exercised to the point of trembling, you're all too familiar with your muscles sending you a message to rest.

Research suggests that when glutamine levels drop and are not replenished, several body functions are affected, particularly within the digestive tract. Glutamine is important to overall immune function and aids the GI system in fighting bacteria and infection. Glutamine is being watched closely for its ability to help patients with multiple trauma and burns and for its potential in quickly healing surgical wounds.

Researchers haven't concluded yet whether or not glutamine claims of building and preserving the lean muscle of bodybuilders are valid. And nutritionists are indifferent about the use of glutamine supplements for sedentary individuals and for those who don't regularly experience physical recreation. When used as directed, glutamine poses no negative side effect and hasn't been shown to interact adversely with any particular drugs or other dietary supplements.

Glucosamine: Don't Leave Home without It

Most of us have heard of Glucosamine with regards to treating joint pain and stiffness, but so few actually know that glucosamine is a naturally-occurring amino sugar in the body that plays an active role in forming and maintaining body tissue and serving bodily functions. For instance, glucosamine is vital in the construct of nails, eyes, skin, ligaments, bones, heart valves and tendons and is crucial to discharging unwanted mucus from the respiratory system and GI and urinary tracts.

Unfortunately, glucosamine is not readily available from food sources, leaving dietary supplements as the most effective way to reap glucosamine benefits. Most glucosamine supplements are derived from chitin, a substance found in the outer shell of lobster, crab and shrimp and in animal connective tissues such as the marrow of chicken bones.

Glucosamine supplements are recommended primarily to stimulate joint function and repair. Although you often find glucosamine paired with chondroitin, a major constituent in various connective tissues, glucosamine is known to effectively relieve joint pain on its own. Chondroitin has its benefits, but is hard for the body to absorb because of its large, cumbersome molecules.

Garden Greens Goji Splash Fights Disease

Garden Greens Goji Splash is a super-antioxidant, berry juice drink that when taken daily may lead to healthier, more productive life. Goji berries have a very high ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity) rating and are known to fight the free radicals that cause discomfort and disease. Garden Greens Goji Splash antioxidant mix is half the price of RTD juices and a lot cheaper than goji concentrates, making this "fountain of youth" berry more accessible to a broader audience.

There's a phytonutrient in Garden Greens Goji Splash called Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide, or LBP. The compound is found primarily in the goji berry and credited for goji's age-defying, immune supporting benefits. These simple sugars also give Garden Greens Goji Splash its sweet, delicious taste, making it an easy sell to children and the perfect replacement for non-nutritious sodas and soft drinks.

Gardens Greens Goji Splash gives you everything you need in a powder mix: health benefits, great taste, value and the opportunity to live better. Go online today and scoop up Garden Greens Goji Splash while supplies last.

Which Fish Oil is Better?

"Product disclosure" is the operable phrase when seeking out nutritious fish oil supplements. By asking and answering five key questions, you'll be able to distinguish good fish oil from bad. Key words and phrases used on the labels of fish oil products are very telling with regards to quality and safety. Remember, most fish oil isn't regulated by the FDA, so strength, consistency, level of contaminants and efficacy can vary greatly among brands.

Q: In what type of environment was the fish raised?

Look for terms "coldwater," "deep water" and "wild" as opposed to "farm-raised."

Q: Is the fish oil extracted naturally through pressing or with a centrifuge, or are petrochemical solvents such as hexane used to extract the oil from the source?

Cold or modified expeller pressing means that the oil was produced without damaging temperatures or unnecessary pressure.

Q: How is the fish oil refined?

Is it molecularly distilled, which to date is the most reliable form of fish oil purification, or does the label read something like "extra-distilled" or "super-distilled?" Such terms have no bearing on quality or safety.

Q: In what ocean or hemisphere was the fish caught?

North Atlantic, deep, coldwater is said to be the most nutritious.

Q: From what parts of the fish is the oil derived?

Fish oils extracted from fish liver (i.e. shark liver) may be higher in heavy metals and contaminants.

Without Enzymes, Good Health is Impossible

Every function in the body requires enzymes. In fact, without enzymes, nothing at all can happen - no digestion, no elimination, no detoxification and certainly no assimilation of nutrients. That being said, it's now easy to understand the importance of enzymes in diet. Enzymes occur in both plants and animals and, as dietary supplements, may facilitate the digestive process and help maintain a balanced metabolism.

The need for enzyme supplements in the modern American diet is a direct result of our affinity for cooked and processed foods, in which the natural enzymes of both have been either partially or entirely destroyed. Every raw whole food comes with its own complete set of enzymes to aid in its digestion in the body but, when brought above a certain temperature or exposed to additives or irradiation, these whole food enzymes are ruined, often leaving our bodies with significant amounts of undigested food, chemicals and nutrients to pass on to excretion. Over a period of years, this becomes taxing on the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to oxidative stress, a compromised immune system and diminished health.

Enzyme Supplements Promote Healthy Digestion

Because going out to eat has become more of a behavioral pattern than a special occasion in America, the typical diet has strayed far to the left of what most would consider healthy and balanced. As a result, our digestive tract isn't what is used to be. Enter the benefits of digestive enzymes and their potential to stave off uncomfortable gas, indigestion, diarrhea, cramps and bloating.

Why do the French eat salad after dinner? Why do sushi restaurants pile on the ginger? What is the reasoning behind after dinner mints? A: Certain vegetables and carminative herbs such as peppermint and ginger are rich in the volatile oils known to aid digestion.

Nutritionists suggest that in addition to digestive assistance, a predetermined regimen of select enzymes may purify blood, strengthen immune function, cleanse the colon and enhance long-term cognitive function. Most aren't very expensive, come with few to no side effects and may be just what it takes to have a quiet, uninterrupted night on the town.

Coromega Emulsified Fish Oil has High Absorbency

Some scientists say that emulsified fish oil may be as much as 71 percent more absorbent than fish oil capsules. Then again, absorbency remains a hot topic in the supplement world because of the many factors which impact the efficient absorption of nutrients. Regardless, fish oil in any way shape or form has been shown to benefit good health.

You'll find that some fish oils receive more exposure in the press than others, primarily because of large marketing budgets, presenting a conundrum. Just because a brand is backed by an enormous media campaign doesn't mean it's a high-quality product. In fact, in the supplement industry, it's oftentimes the opposite.

Coromega fish oil is a good product. It's derived from deep, coldwater fish and is molecular distilled for ultimate purity. Coromega contains pharmaceutical grade DHA and EPA components for heart, brain and eye health and has been proven to help balance cholesterol and triglycerides, improve joint mobility and contribute to overall well-being.

DHEA May Help Stop Age Related Decline

DHEA is a steroid hormone produced less by the body with age - one reason why dietary supplement, skin cream and cosmetics manufacturers have put so much money in the figurative DHEA anti-aging basket. Once sold mainly as an over-the-counter weight loss solution, DHEA is now purported to fight free radicals, aid sex drive and restore aging skin to a youthful state. 

Much of the raw material for the DHEA found in commercial applications is extracted from Mexican wild yams and synthesized through a chemical process. Albeit a far cry from the steroid produced in our bodies, it's a compound effective enough to produce results. Hundreds of Internet testimonials indicate success in using DHEA facial masks and night creams to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles and, having tried a few of them myself, am convinced that DHEA has an incredible future in the anti-aging marketplace. 

Is DHEA effective for weight loss? Let's put it this way. Advertisers tend to exaggerate DHEA results while researchers say they're still not sure. DHEA has shown promise in both genetic and diet-induced obesity experiments on animals, and more research than not points to DHEA's potential in reducing age-related abdominal fat in the elderly.

Give More Thought to the Benefits of DHA

DHA (docasahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that has been implicated in boosting the cognitive function of older persons and increasing one's capacity to learn and retain information. High levels of DHA in fish are precisely why the "chicken of the sea" is so aptly referred to as brain food and why fish oil is touted as a beneficial health supplement.

Although DHA occurs naturally in humans and is highly concentrated in brain cells and in the retina, its occurrence in the body declines as we age, putting in near the top of the most needed supplements list. The older you get, say nutritionists, the more you'll benefit from a DHA supplement guarding against cerebral cortex decay and impending bad vision.   

Studies published in the Journal of Neuroscience have shown DHA to be effective in slowing memory loss and improving quality of life in the senior years. In addition to its positive impact on brain health, DHA may help to balance cholesterol and triglyceride levels and aid in sustaining cardiovascular wellness.

Chromium May Improve Your Physique

Don't get your hopes up, but it's possible that chromium, a trace mineral and now well-touted nutrient, could promote weight loss and refine body composition. Research shows that this metallic element may enhance the action of insulin, a hormone critical to the metabolism and storage of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the body. All things, when balanced in diet, may indeed lead to healthy weight management.

But most people don't know the difference between a good chromium supplement and one not as effective. There are quite a few on the market and they come in a variety of formulas, including chromium (III), chromium aspartate, chromium chloride, chromium citrate, chromium nicotinate, chromium picolinate, GTF chromium and trivalent chromium - each of which you need to research to find out which one is best for you. But you'll find limited data on all, making the choice that much more difficult. In terms of absorbency, findings suggest that chromium picolinate may be the most suitable, as chromium absorption increases when bonded with picolinic acid, an isomer of niacin commonly referred to as vitamin B3.

"To chromium or not to chromium?" that is the supplement question. It should be known that an actual chromium deficiency is rare among healthy people. If for no other reason, chromium occurs abundantly in whole foods such broccoli, grape juice, garlic, red meat, almonds, eggs, dairy products, fish, turkey, some spices, potatoes, whole wheat and rye breads, brown sugar, coffee, tea, brewer's yeast and red wine - foods common to many diets. However, research indicates that chromium levels may be unbalanced in those with blood sugar disorders and people who are overweight. Chromium deficiencies have also been diagnosed in people who experience chronic infections, frequent exhaustion, high levels of stress and physical trauma.

Chondroitin Supplements in Simple Terms

Chondroitin, in supplement form, is most commonly used to lubricate joints and slow the wearing away of cartilage as we age. You also find it paired frequently with glucosamine, another naturally occurring substance found in cartilage and a precursor to the formation of Chondroitin, which is why you often find the two together. In theory, chondroitin supplements are supposed to regenerate cartilage by helping the body more effectively manufacture its own cartilage, the production of which declines with age.

I'm proud to say I take a chondroitin supplement daily, and, over a year's time, I'm convinced that my chondroitin supplement has helped alleviate the clicking and pain I've grown accustomed to in middle age. However, there are few things about chondroitin that need to be cleared up. Mainly, does chondroiton actually rebuild cartilage to the point that degenerating tissue is repaired, or is it simply a band aid on a wound that never really heals?

Let's put it this way. Studies indicate more good than bad with regards to chondroitin supplementation, but little clinical evidence points to chondroitin actually regenerating cartilage. Does it lubricate joints and relieve pain? Yes, there is research that points to this. Talk to your friends and your doctor and try a few chondroitin or chondroitin sulfate supplements. They may work for you, and if they do, you'll be happy you gave them a chance.

Is Chlorella Really a "Wonder Supplement?"

Chlorella is a type of single-celled green algae that in supplement form is said to be extremely nutritious, aid in detoxifying the body, increase focus and cognitive function and improve digestion and metabolism. Wow! Phytoplankton does all that? Well, maybe or maybe not.

At the FDA level, as is the case with most dietary supplements, chlorella and other algae supplements may be a flash in the pan, but herbalists say otherwise. You see, under the microscope, this single-celled algae contains high levels of chlorophyll, protein, iron, vitamins C and B12, beta carotene and 19 amino acids - not too shabby for a simple plant that occurs frequently in nature. And several studies indicate that chlorella may act as an antioxidant, defending the body against free radicals and stamping out oxidative stress.

It does so by stimulating the activity of T-cells and macrophages, which defend against infection, harmful microorganisms and toxins in the blood. In fact, chlorella may just be the wonder supplement everyone says it is, but the jury's still out.

Whether chlorella can ward off invading viruses, bacteria and toxins has yet to be clinically proven. You can experiment with a few chlorella supplements and draw some conclusions of your own, but keep in mind, that notwithstanding chlorella's high degree of safety in animal studies, scant research has been conducted on humans as to chlorella side effects and findings are inconclusive as to the consequences of long-term use.

Which Calcium Supplement is Best?

Calcium may be one of the most important elements of diet, say nutritionists. It's a structural component of soft tissue, bones and teeth and is essential to a number of metabolic processes in the body. The scary thing about calcium is that, if you don't get enough through diet, your body begins to pillage this essential mineral from bones, weakening the skeletal structure and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

But just what form of calcium is best absorbed by the body and which calcium supplement is most practical depends on a number of factors including age, budget, diet, stomach acid production and a number of other things you may want to discuss with your doctor or nutritionist.

Although calcium carbonate supplements contain high elemental levels of calcium, and are among the most commonly used and least expensive, they're not absorbed well by persons with low stomach acid (such as the elderly) and their effectiveness diminished greatly by the use of antacids and other remedies for indigestion. Moving up the calcium ladder we find calcium orotate (a 90 to 95 percent absorption rate) followed closely by calcium aspartate (a roughly 85 percent absorption rate). These, however, are not only some of the most expensive calcium supplements, they're often some of the most difficult to find and are frequently out of stock at the retail level.

Calcium citrate seems to be the best, middle of the road calcium supplement for all. Its absorption rate is roughly 30 to 35 percent, and the citric acid reduces the amount of stomach acids required for healthy absorption by the small intestine. It's also reasonably priced and readily available. One thing's for sure, though. Calcium is one of the most important macronutrients for skeletal health and metabolism, and sufficient amounts at various stages in life are critical to preventing a number of debilitating maladies.

Look and Feel Younger with ALA!

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is one of those naturally occurring compounds in the body that none of us think twice about – although maybe it's time that we do. This tiny molecule, when incorporated into diet, may be one of the strongest antioxidants nutritionists have uncovered in years. Notwithstanding the majority of ALA produced by the body is used almost entirely to generate energy in cells, researchers have found that ALA supplementation may defend the body against free radicals that lead to the oxidative stress associated with diminishing health and signs of aging.

Studies indicate that ALA may slow age-related heart problems and brain degeneration, and help boost the physiological strength and cognitive function of older persons – hence its reference as an anti-aging nutrient. ALA may also stave off age-related macular degeneration and, when added to cosmetic creams and face masks, ALA may enhance the elasticity and youthful appearance of skin. 

So get out there and scoop up all the ALA you can while supplies last and before your neighbors figure out how you manage to look and feel so good. ALA may be the best thing to happen to mankind in generations and, if proven correctly, scientists may be on the cusp of uncovering another "fountain of youth" supplement targeted at longevity and your ultimate well-being.

CoQ10: At the Heart of Healthy Aging

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), or ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring vitamin-like nutrient and a powerful antioxidant that can be found in every living cell of almost all plants and animals, including humans. CoQ10 supports cellular energy production and cardiovascular health. Since the heart has greater energy requirements than other organs, it has twice as much CoQ10 as any other tissue in the body. CoQ10 also supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels and helps to optimize the functioning of the body's immune system.

Since CoQ10 is so vital to good health, you might want to ask yourself if you're getting enough. CoQ10 is found naturally in foods like fish, liver and peanuts, but chances are you may need a daily supplement. Your body's level of CoQ10 declines naturally with age. This causes cellular energy production to decrease and organ function to decline. In fact, some scientists who specialize in the study of aging believe that a lack of CoQ10 is the main cause of the cell death and dysfunction that occurs with aging. Our body's natural supply of CoQ10 is known to peak at age 20. A steady decline of CoQ10 begins in the mid-thirties. By age 70, your body is functioning on less than a third of the CoQ10 supply it had in its youth.

Colostrum - Natural Antibodies for a Healthy Immune System

For the first 72 hours after giving birth, a mother's milk glands produce Colostrum, a substance rich in natural immunoglobulins. The powerful antibodies found in Colostrum help boost the baby's immune system to promote immunity and optimal health.

With a broad spectrum of natural immunoglobulins, Colostrum dietary supplements provide your body with those same immune boosting benefits. Colostrum supports enhanced functioning of the immune system while it helps increase strength and stamina. Colostrum also helps protect and repair the GI tract and supports good digestive health.

Only Colostrum supplements made from true bovine Colostrum (not cheese whey) can provide the wealth of immune-boosting health benefits. So be careful. All Colostrum products on the market may not be real Colostrum. Only the Colostrum collected from lacteal secretions during the first 42 to 78 hours after giving birth contain the biologically active proteins rich in immunoglobulins that helps boost the body's immune defenses. To make sure you're getting all the healthy antibodies of Colostrum, make sure you're getting the real thing.

Colostrum — Mother's Milk Boosts Immunity

Nothing is more natural than a mother's milk — especially the very first milk. Only the milk produced by the mammary glands late in pregnancy and within a few days of giving birth contains colostrum. Rich in healthy immunoglobins and other biologically active proteins, colostrum provides the antibodies that will boost the newborn's immune system.

Colostrum supplements are made from true bovine colostrums, collected from the mother's first milk. Rich in healthy immunoglobins, it helps support immune system function. By boosting your natural immune system, colostrum builds your body's defenses against immune deficiency and the many conditions that may arise from it. Colostrum may also increase strength and stamina, help protect and repair the gastro-intestinal tract and help control both acute and chronic diarrhea.

Colostrum may also enhance skin and muscle rejuvenation. NSI Colostrum Ultra provides maximum immune support. Standardized to 40 percent immunoglobins, this colostrum supplement offers the full spectrum of health benefits. It is also a wonderful value for 240 capsules, a four-month supply.

Yaeyama Chlorella — The Planet's Super Food

If you're looking for a true "super food," take a good look at Chlorella. This dark green, single-celled micro-algae is cultivated in fresh water ponds. It was one of the first foods to appear on our planet billions of years ago, and it offers an abundance of health benefits. Yaeyama Chlorella is renowned the world over for its purity and quality. Yaeyama Chlorella is specially cultivated on Ishigaki Island, a protected coral reef island off the coast of Southern Japan. Yaeyama Chlorella is ecologically grown in mineral rich spring water in the pure air and sunshine, without any pesticides.

Both the Japanese government and outside testing labs conduct strict tests to ensure that the Yaeyama Chlorella being produced meets their health standards. In Yaeyama Chlorella, cell walls are cracked open during the drying process, while maintaining cell integrity and nutrient value. In your body, the open cells allow the nutrients to be released and assimilated directly into your system, guaranteeing maximum nutrition. You'll taste and feel the difference Yaeyama Chlorella quality makes.

Yaeyama Chlorella helps boost energy levels while it supercharges your immune system. Yaeyama Chlorella also removes toxins from the body, promotes healthy brain and memory function, digestion, muscle and joint health and cardiac function while supporting healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

L-Theanine Promotes Calm and Relaxation

If you're like most people, you have a lot going on. Also like most people, there may be times you need a little help relaxing–but you don't want to become so relaxed that you get drowsy. There are plenty of remedies out there that claim they can help you de-stress, but you need to be careful because they may literally put you to sleep.

When choosing a supplement, look for one that contains L-Theanine, an amino acid commonly found in tea, particularly green tea. In fact, L-Theanine makes up 50% of the total free amino acids in the green tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and is believed to the main constituent that gives green tea its taste.

L-Theanine helps put you in a relaxed state because it enhances serotonin, dopamine and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels in the brain. However, unlike most amino acids and anti-stress herbs, L-Theanine can be taken with or without food. Because it does not make you sleepy, it can also be taken at any time of day.

It is also important to note that L-Theanine is a very pure compound and is not subject to fluctuations in efficacy as herbs can be. So if you are interested taking an anti-stress supplement that is safe and effective, but does not sedate you, choose one that contains L-Theanine and relax!

NEW Diet Advisor Helps You Choose Which Supplements Are Best for You

Losing weight is challenging enough—don't let yourself get frustrated with the endless selection of diet products out there. Now, simply plug your height and weight into our Diet Advisor tool, and we'll determine which weight loss supplements are best for you.

The Diet Advisor is a free service newly available from Vitacost.com. After submitting your personal information, the Diet Advisor will calculate your body mass index, or the relationship between your height and weight. You'll be informed whether you're underweight, overweight or within a healthy weight range.

The Diet Advsior will then provide you with suggestions for daily meal plans, including healthy breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner ideas, and options for supplements that may help you meet your personal weight goals. You'll also receive links to learn more about and/or purchase other healthful and convenient foods and drinks.

To try the new Vitacost.com Diet Advisor, please click here.

The Doctor Is In! Try Doctor's Best Supplements Today

Combine scientific research with traditional wisdom—that's the philosophy behind Doctor's Best supplements.

Founded more than 15 years ago by a physician, Doctor's Best manufactures herbal and nutrient supplements based on current studies on nutrition on health. Each formula is carefully researched and contains the finest-quality raw materials from around the world.

Vitacost.com carries nearly 60 deeply-discounted Doctor's Best products, covering health concerns including cardio, vision, bone, bladder, sleep, anti-aging and more. Each is accompanied by an annotated "fact sheet" with detailed background information, FDA-approved structure-function claims and references.

To view our complete selection of Doctor's Best products, please click here.

Enhanced Bioavailability Means You Get Supplement Benefits Faster

After you swallow a vitamin or supplement, it goes through your digestive system, where it's broken down, and eventually enters your bloodstream.

"Bioavailability" is the term used to describe how easily and effectively nutrients can be absorbed and used by the body. High bioavailability means a supplement is easily absorbed.

Sometimes ingredients are just naturally well-received; other times, manufacturers use special, high-quality ingredients to enhance bioavailbility. NSI® uses a black pepper extract, Bioperine®, known to significantly increase bioavailability of certain nutrients, in some of our new products. Look for Bioperine® in our new ToCoQ10™ formulations and our Turmeric Extract Curcumin C3 Complex.

Coromega Provides Omega-3 Benefits, without the "Fishy" Taste!

Considering adding an omega-3 supplement to your diet? Coromega® provides all the benefits of typical fish-oil capsules, without the "fishy" taste!

Produced through an exclusive process that transforms pharmaceutical grade fish oil into creamy, orange-flavored "pudding," Coromega® Omega-3 supplements contain EPA and DHA fatty acids, protected and stabilized with vitamins C and E.

Simply tear open the perforated Coromega® packet and squeeze the contents into your mouth. Or, mix Coromega® into yogurt, smoothies, or juices. Documented benefits of omega-3 fatty acids include cardiovascular, immune, joint and mental health.

Magnesium: A Must for Bone Health, and More!

Years ago, magnesium deficiency was rare. Foods such as legumes, nuts, seeds, spinach and whole-grain products provided plenty of this important mineral. Today, processing processes, such as flour refinement to make white bread, strip food of magnesium and increase the need for supplementation.

Magnesium plays a part in energy production, nerve and muscle function, keeping heart rhythm steady, regulating blood sugar levels and bone maintenance. You've probably seen calcium supplements combined with magnesium - this is because magnesium helps the body absorb calcium. Fifty percent of total body magnesium is found in your bones.

In addition to helping with basic body functions, magnesium has been found to benefit those with fibromyalgia, premenstrual syndrome, migraine headaches, anxiety, depression, diabetes and more. Although the recommended daily amount is about 300 mg for women and 400 for men, therapeutic amounts up to 800 mg can be taken for health support. 

Glucosamine Chondroitin—Your Joint Support System

Your body contains 206 bones, all of which are connected to one another by joints. Joints are cushioned by a tough, rubbery material known as cartilage. Over time, joints and cartilage can deteriorate, causing aggravating pain and swelling as a result of bones rubbing together.

Glucosamine, a natural sugar produced by the body, plays an important part in the construction of cartilage. Insufficient levels may be associated with delay in the repair of damaged cartilage, or worse, the potential development of osteoarthritis.  Studies show that supplementing with glucosamine can have beneficial effects on those suffering from joint deterioration, from pain relief to better mobility and function.

Chondroitin is also a naturally-occurring substance that contributes to joint health. It’s believed to promote water retention and elasticity in joints, and may help block enzymes that destroy cartilage tissue. Chondroitin also appears to help rebuild damaged cartilage, though more studies are needed to confirm this effect.

Take together, glucosamine and chondroitin offer a powerful support system for joints. Because of the complicated processes involved in “rebuilding”, the combination may need to be taken for several months before results are seen.

The Power of Potassium

A banana a day may keep heart disease away. Bananas contain high levels of potassium, a mineral that promotes healthy muscle, kidney, blood—and heart—function.

Potassium is an electrolyte, a positively-charged molecule that works with other electrolytes, such as sodium and chloride, to help regulate the body’s fluid levels. It also stimulates muscle contraction and helps the body maintain a stable acid-base level.

Because the blood’s concentration of potassium is small, even slight changes can have significant effects on the body. Low levels, a condition called hypokalemia, may occur when large amounts of fluid are lost from the body, such as with severe sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Muscle cramps and fatigue can result, or, in more serious cases, paralysis and abnormal heart rhythm.

The development of high potassium levels is rare, as the body can safely absorb up to 18 grams per day (a banana has about 400 mg). The condition, called hyperkalemia, could happen with improper potassium supplementation or abnormal kidney function.

Most people obtain the proper amount of potassium in their diets. Besides bananas, orange juice, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, honeydew, spinach, beets, carrots, and legumes are all good sources. 

Maintain Energy & Blood Cell Health with Iron

Feeling tired, irritable, restless or distracted? You may be one of millions of Americans suffering from iron deficiency, a condition that leads to anemia, hair loss, decreased immune function, developmental problems in children and other health issues.

Iron is a mineral required for the manufacture of red blood cells. It also assists red blood cells with the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Iron is obtained by eating a healthy diet consisting of meats, fish, poultry, egg yolk, peas, beans, whole grains and raisins.

Besides inadequate dietary intake, iron deficiency may also be caused by blood loss (from heavy menstrual periods, regular blood donation, or other conditions involving bleeding), increased need (such as during childhood or pregnancy) and rigorous exercise (like with athletic training). Vegetarians are also at risk for not getting enough iron.

Before supplementing, be sure to check with your physician. Just as not enough iron can be detrimental to your health, excess amounts may also be harmful. For more information, visit: http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/iron.asp.

The Case for Chromium: Why You Need This Important Mineral

Just like calcium, zinc, and selenium, chromium is an essential trace mineral needed for the body to function properly. It helps insulin deliver glucose to cells (for energy), and also plays a part in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.

It’s estimated that 90 percent of Americans don’t get enough chromium in their diets. Although it’s widely distributed in the food supply (found in yeast, grains, corn, and clams,) most foods don’t provide enough of the mineral to fulfill daily requirements. The elderly, pregnant women, growing children, and people with diabetes are at particular risk for chromium deficiency.

Besides providing the recommended daily amount, supplementation with chromium may promote healthy blood pressure, enhanced strength and athletic performance, weight loss, and healthy cholesterol levels. Take precaution, however, as extremely high doses of chromium can inhibit the effectiveness of insulin and may cause stomach irritation, itching, and flushing.

For Immune System Support: Think Zinc!

Several years ago, studies on zinc showed that supplementation helped speed recovery from the common cold. Soon after, people began popping zinc lozenges at the first sign of the sniffles, and bottles of this not-so-well-known mineral gained a new home alongside popular immunity-booster vitamin C in many medicine cabinets.

Zinc, found in nearly every cell of the body, plays a part in a number of physiological processes including appetite, stress, reproduction, taste, and smell. It’s believed to promote a healthy immune system by stimulating the thymus gland to produce white blood cells, which defend against infection. 

The best dietary sources of zinc are oysters, red meat, poultry, cheese, shrimp, crab, and other shellfish. The typical American diet, however, provides only two thirds the recommended amount. Be sure you’re getting enough zinc in your daily multi-vitamin, and check with your healthcare practitioner about supplementing when you feel a cold coming on.

To read more about zinc’s effects on the common cold, click here:
http://www.newhope.com/nutritionsciencenews/NSN_backs/Nov_00/natnews5.cfm
or here:
http://www.annals.org/cgi/content/abstract/133/4/245

Supplement with Biotin for Healthy Hair, Nails, and Skin

Biotin, from the Greek word “bios, meaning “life”, is a water-soluble B vitamin that helps the body metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It’s also essential for cell growth, the synthesis of proteins, fetal development, muscle tone, and healthy skin and hair.

Working with other B-vitamins, biotin (also known as Vitamin H) helps the body with the breakdown of the food you eat into useable energy. Most diets are sufficient in biotin, with natural sources including butter, cheese, milk, nuts, soybeans, corn, green peas, lentils, meat, fish, poultry, and whole grains. The body also manufactures its own biotin, through bacteria in the intestines.

Supplementation with biotin has been shown to promote healthier skin and nail growth. You may have seen “Hair, Skin, Nail” supplements on store shelves—they contain high levels of biotin. A Swiss study showed that nail thickness increased by 25 percent in individuals who supplemented with biotin for six months.

Other research has shows that biotin may help promote healthy blood sugar levels. It supports enzymes involved in fatty-acid synthesis, which may help the body use glucose to synthesize fats (lowering blood glucose level). It also stimulates a liver enzyme, glucokinase, which helps convert glucose into glycogen (helping to remove glucose in the blood). Further studies need to be conducted, however, to determine biotin’s role in improving insulin response for diabetic patients.

Take Folic Acid for a Healthy Baby, and Healthy You!

If you’re pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant, folic acid should be included in your diet or taken daily as a supplement. Folic acid is a B vitamin that’s essential for new cell growth. It can help prevent from 50 to 75 percent of some forms of birth defects, known as neural tube defects (NTD’s).

Spina bifida, the leading cause of childhood paralysis, and anencephaly, which is often fatal, are two forms of NTD’s that may be prevented with folic acid. An estimated 4,000 pregnancies a year are affected by NTD’s. Every woman is at risk, and it’s recommended that 400 mcg of folic acid be taken by all women during childbearing years.

Though some foods, like bread, cereal, flour, pasta, rice, and other grain products, are fortified with folic acid, it’s unlikely that a woman will get the recommended daily amount through diet alone. Check the label on your multi-vitamin—it probably contains the correct dose. If not, be sure to take a separate folic acid supplement.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids—The “Good” Fat Your Body Needs

Omega 3 fatty-acids, found in fish and certain plant oils, are considered “essential fatty acids”—which means they’re essential to your health, but aren’t produced naturally by your body. Studies show that eating fish several times a week has many health benefits, but if you don’t like the taste, try omega-3 supplements.

A study in the American Heart Association’s journal, Circulation, showed that of 11, 323 participants, those who took one gram of an omega-3 fatty acid supplement daily reduced risk of sudden cardiac death by 42 percent during the three-month follow up period, compared to those receiving a placebo. Another study (this one lasting 17 years), published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that participants with the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids were more than 80 percent less likely to die suddenly from heart disease. 

Other research show that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in the prevention and treatment of other diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, asthma, ADHD, breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer, and more. Be sure the omega-3 supplement you take is free from heavy metals such as mercury!

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Jet-Lag Got You Down? NADH May Help Pick You Back up

Traveling is fun, but the effects of jet-lag aren’t. Exhaustion and lack of energy cuts into your vacation time and interrupts everything. Well, NADH might be your answer. A German medical journal published the results of a study1 where researchers actually flew 35 people from the west coast of the United States to the east coast. When they got to the east coast, half were given NADH and then tested. The NADH group was quicker on cognitive skills, and had improved sleeping patterns with no side-effects.

So what gives NADH its energy-enhancing properties? Well, it’s a co-enzyme that is derived from niacin, and it plays a critical role in certain enzymatic reactions in all living cells: NADH helps stimulate the production of ATP, which are energy molecules that power our cells.

NADH may also help stimulate production of key neurotransmitters in the brain; this could also help with energy and overall mood levels. And, NADH is available in many formulations, including enteric-coated and sublingual tablets—which provide for longer-lasting effects.

Wobenzym May Provide Inflammation Relief Naturally

Wobenzym is a formula made up of different enzymes; many of you are familiar with digestive enzymes, but the enzymes in wobenzym are systemic. They help break down certain proteins that may cause inflammation and other health issues in organs, tissues and joints: The main culprit is C-reactive protein (CRP).

The scientific community has long been studying CRP and its effects. The Sept. 2005 Current Opinion in Investigational Drugs, states “CRP is considered to be the prototype marker of inflammation. There is also evolving evidence that CRP may be directly involved in the pathological disease process itself.” What better way to fight the effects of this inflammation than with wobenzym.

Generally, wobenzym contains bromelain, papain and pancreatic enzymes to provide full anti-inflammation support. And, wobenzym in tablet form is enteric-coated (which means the wobenzym is more resistant to breaking down in the stomach), so its effects directly reach the bloodstream.

Feeling Blue? 5-HTP May Give Your Mood And Metabolism a Boost

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid derived from the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia. It works to help regulate your body’s production of the brain chemical serotonin. This is an important chemical, because low serotonin levels can contribute to:

• Depression
• Obesity
• Carbohydrate/Sugar Cravings
• Sleep Disorders (such as Apnea, Narcolepsy, Insomnia)
• Headaches
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Fibromyalgia

5-HTP may help curb the appetite, and can be a safe tool in the struggle with obesity. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported in November 1992 that 20 obese patients given 5-HTP experienced a reduction in carbohydrate intake and felt fuller.

Very important: You need to be sure the 5-HTP supplement you choose is “Peak X” free. “Peak X” was discovered by a group of researchers at the Mayo Clinic to be a contaminant appearing in some 5-HTP supplements. It was linked to eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), a debilitating illness causing an elevated white blood cell count and severe muscle pain.

Experience the Incredible Benefits of CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (commonly called CoQ10; less-commonly called by its chemical name, ubiquinone) is quite essential for energy production. CoQ10 is also considered a potent antioxidant, mainly against cardiovascular issues. In fact, CoQ10 was first identified around sixty years ago.

The heart and liver contain the greatest amounts of CoQ10, and an April 2000 study published in the prestigious Annals of Internal Medicine found that it is helpful in the fight against congestive heart failure. And a study presented at a March 2005 meeting of the American College of Cardiology illustrated the results from a double-blind trial of 41 people who experienced muscle pain while taking statin drugs. Twenty-one were given 100 mg of CoQ10, and after one month, 18 reported improvement in symptoms. Another CoQ10 study, published in January 2005 in the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that it may benefit neurodegenerative disorders. It was determined that CoQ10 had a protective effect when administered before the nervous system’s cells (neurons) were subjected to oxidative stress. Turns out the amount of damage to the neurons was decreased.

CoQ10 is available in many, many forms…one of the newest is a highly-absorbable chewable; and now, CoQ10 is being paired with other antioxidants for a powerful, complete CoQ10 formula.

Nothing Fishy About This Powerful Supplement…Fish Oil

Vital for heart and brain health, essential fatty acids (EFAs) are commonly taken as omega-3 fatty acids—which come primarily from fish oils. Now, why take something called a “fatty acid”? First, you need to know that a superior fish oil supplement should contain DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids. DHA is the primary structural fatty acid in the brain—which is 60% fat. Previous studies have shown that individuals with major depression have marked depletions in omega 3 essential fatty acids, especially DHA.

In the last several years, there have been multiple studies published demonstrating the amazing value of fish oil. Just this past April, researchers from the University of California, San Diego, looked at the association between bone mineral density (BMD) and the dietary intake of omega-6/omega-3 EFAs in more than 1,500 men and women over a four-year period. They concluded a more balanced intake of omega-6s to omega-3s could preserve skeletal integrity in older age. These latest findings were published in the prestigious American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Together, DHA and EPA support cardiovascular and circulatory health, they promote decreased inflammation by balancing out omega-6 fatty acids (found in vegetable oils) and they assist in preserving bone structure. There’s no question that fish oils are one of the most powerful and important nutrients you can take. Please remember, it is important that the product be free of any contaminants or toxins that can be found in fish products, such as hazardous mercury. Use only molecularly-distilled fish oil.