Freephone : Hyaluronic Acid; Our Body’s Answer to Joint Pain
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance found in skin tissue, some cartilage and joint fluid, as well as in the fluid that encircles the eyes. Over the aging process our bodies make less naturally, and we feel the effects by signs of joint, tendon, and muscle pain. Hyaluronic acid (HA) supplementation can make up for age-related deficiencies of this nutrient, making HA an effective and natural option. Research is showing success with HA supplementation for inflammatory processes in the fields of rheumatology, ophthalmology, dermatology and dentistry.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is found throughout the body, the highest amounts being found in the extracellular matrix of soft connective tissues such as synovial fluid (joint lubricant), vitreous fluid in the eyes, and in the skin. It’s involved in several key processes; including cell signaling, wound repair and regeneration, morphogenesis, and matrix organization. As a fundamental component that helps maintain cellular structure and function, HA acts as a lubricant, an antioxidant, shock absorber during weight bearing, and a cushion to protect against physical trauma.
Man-made forms of hyaluronic acid were developed beginning in the 1980s for use in rheumatology; the medical field that deals with conditions like ophthalmology. Hyaluronic acid protects cartilage by providing increased lubrication between joint surfaces. When challenged by weight-bearing activities, the hyaluronic acid helps act as a shock absorber. Conditions such as arthritis show decreased hyaluronic acid in joint space, which can lead to damage during joint use by compression or sheer stress forces. Hyaluronic acid also helps increase the flow of nutrition to cartilage by impeding larger proteins often associated with inflammation, blocking pain receptors as well.
Oral supplementation with HA has shown promising results in a recent studies. One such study was a placebo-controlled trial that enrolled 20 male and female subjects aged 40 years and older with knee osteoarthritis (pain for at least 15 days in the previous month and symptoms present for at least 6 months), who were randomized to oral supplementation of HA or placebo. At the end of the study period, HA-treated participants experienced a greater decrease in total symptom scores based on a standardized osteoarthritis index, compared with placebo after just 8 weeks (-18.6 vs. -15.8). There was also a greater magnitude of pain relief in the HA-treated group compared with placebo (11.1 vs. 2.2) as well as a significant improvement in physical component summary scores (6.1 vs. 3.6). The researchers also observed that the HA group needed half the amount of pain rescue medication (500 mg acetaminophen capsules) compared with the placebo group during the study. In addition, compared with placebo, more HA subjects perceived improvement in joint pain (75 percent vs. 50 percent) and muscle aches (75 percent vs. 38 percent). The researchers concluded that oral HA “was useful to enhance several markers of quality of life in adults with osteoarthritis of the knee.”
The impressive results seen with oral HA supplementation may be particularly beneficial in elderly subjects with osteoarthritis-related pain resulting in serious limitation of activities of daily living. Oral supplementation also has obvious advantages over intra-articular HA by avoiding potential complications at the injection site and discomfort associated with repeated injections. Clinical studies have confirmed anti-inflammatory, anabolic and cartilage-protective actions of HA in reducing pain and improving patient function. Hyaluronic acid (HA) appears to have a stimulatory effect on the metabolism of chondrocytes (cells found in the cartilage) through its interaction with CD44 receptors. Researchers have speculated this could possibly lead to permanent improvement of cartilage with oral supplementation, which can elevate plasma HA concentrations over a long period of time.
A growing body of evidence also indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage play a causal role in disorders such as osteoarthritis that are linked to excessive generation of free radicals. Pretreatment of chondrocytes with Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been shown to enhance their survival by decreasing mitochondrial damage and enhancing DNA repair capacity and cell viability, while preserving ATP levels and ameliorating apoptosis. Studies have also shown that the concentration and level of HA decline significantly in inflammatory arthritis, which can be counteracted with high molecular weight HA supplementation. This measure has proved effective in promoting chondrocyte HA and proteoglycan synthesis, reducing the production of substances that break down collagen such as proinflammatory mediators and enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and maintaining joints in good condition.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome
As with osteoarthritis, the level of HA is significantly lower in the synovial fluid from patients with inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull.9 Hyaluronic acid has a natural affinity for joint tissue. In one study, the intra-articular administration of sodium hyaluronate into the temporomandibular joint in patients with Wilkes stage II disease (a classification used to define TMJ severity according to 5 stages) showed better efficacy in reducing pain and improving joint function compared with the oral administration of pain-relief tablets.
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking any Vitamin or Supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any Vitamin or Supplement.
Pomegranate’s Cholesterol Lowering Power
If you’re looking for a powerful and natural approach to taking action against your cholesterol and heart health, consider a surprising alternative; Pomegranate Juice. Pomegranate juice has a rich red color and a crisp, fresh tart taste. The juice contains powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that have been shown to have positive effects on cholesterol. Research shows that this fruit has more antioxidants than many other fruit juices and has been identified as a heart-healthy food.
Pomegranates are native to the Middle East and are about the size of a large orange. They have a tough, smooth red rind, but once you cut into the fruit, small, crunchy seeds can be found that are covered in juicy pulp. It is a time-consuming fruit to peel and eat, with hundreds of seeds found inside but is often produced into juice, which makes the health benefits of the fruit easier to enjoy.
One powerful benefit of Pomegranates is the antioxidants it contains that help decrease the process of oxidation. The body’s cells are under constant attack from free radicals, which are molecules with unpaired electrons that cause havoc on the body, contributing to certain chronic diseases such as cancer and certain heart diseases. Free radicals are responsible for cellular damage; including damage done to the heart, arteries, and vessels in your body. Polyphenols found in pomegranate juice not only help slow the oxidation process down, but they are also absorbed by the body to help utilize other powerful antioxidants like Flavonoids and Lignins. One study found that pomegranate juice contains more polyphenols than red wine, grapes, and acai juices.
Additional, but limited research, suggest pomegranate juice as a helpful supplementation to fighting LDL cholesterol oxidation. LDL cholesterol is a low-profile lipo-protein that increases plaque build-up in the arteries of the heart and increases the risk for developing heart disease. When LDL cholesterol is oxidized, it becomes much more reactive and unstable, increasing the possibility of tissue and cellular damage. In these limited studies, results showed a decrease in overall LDL oxidation. One study showed that participants that drank pomegranate juice saw a decrease in LDL oxidation by 90 percent. Other studies found positive results in mice, where the progression of plaque build-up, or atherosclerosis, was slowed and cardiac blood flow improved.
How to eat your pomegranate:
Step 1
Cut off the pointed end of the pomegranate, known as the crown, with a sharp knife. Use the knife to score, not cut, the pomegranate into four sections. Gently break the scored pomegranate into four pieces.
Step 2
Place the pomegranate sections into a bowl of cold water. Use your fingers to separate the pomegranate seeds, called arils, from the outer red peel and inner white membrane; the removed arils will sink to the bottom of the bowl. Working under water helps prevent the pomegranate juice from splashing up and staining your clothes.
Step 3
Discard the empty pomegranate peel and any bits of white membrane floating on the surface of the water in the bowl. Pour the contents of the bowl into a colander.
Step 4
Spread the pomegranate arils on clean paper towels to air-dry for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 5
*Sprinkle raw pomegranate arils over green salads.
*Add them to fresh salsas to lend a naturally sweet-and-sour flavor to your dishes.
*Add the arils to desserts or use them to garnish main dishes.
Step 6
Use the harvested arils to make pomegranate juice.
*Place the arils in a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth.
*Pour the pureed arils through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to strain out the tiny pits.
Suggestion: Marinate pork or chicken cuts in the juice or heat it until it’s reduced by half to create a pomegranate-juice reduction. Pomegranate juice can also be used to make syrup or a vinaigrette.
Tips and Warnings
Store any leftover pomegranate arils in an airtight container or plastic zipper bag in your freezer for up to two months.
Pomegranate juice can stain your skin, clothes, cutting boards and countertops. Wear an apron to protect your clothing and put down newspaper under the cutting board to protect your countertop, if necessary.
Things You’ll Need
Knife, Bowl, Colander, and Paper towels.
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking any Vitamin or Supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any Vitamin or Supplement.
Evening Primrose Oil… Count the Ways
Evening Primrose is currently being studied all over the world as a treatment for aging problems, alcoholism, acne, heart disease, hyperactivity in children, symptoms of menopause, multiple sclerosis, weight control, obesity, PMS and schizophrenia. It has so many preventive and therapeutic qualities that it has become a standard part of recommendations of many herbalists for maintaining youth and preventing disease.
Evening Primrose Oil contains a high concentration of a fatty acid called GLA. It is this fatty acid that is largely responsible for the remarkable healing properties of the plant. Evening Primrose contains one of the highest concentrations known of this important substance and only a few other plants contain it at all, making Evening Primrose an important medicinal herb. The Gamma-Linoleic Acid, Linoleic Acid, and other nutrients in this oil are essential for cell structure and to improve the elasticity of the skin. These fatty acids also help to regulate hormones and improve nerve function, aiding problems ranging from PMS to migraine headaches. The hormone balancing effect also contributes to healthy breast tissue.
PMS, Menopause, Menstruation, Endometriosis, and Fibrocystic Breasts:
The GLA in evening primrose oil is thought to interfere with the production of inflammatory prostaglandins released during menstruation, helping to lessen menstrual cramps. It may also minimize premenstrual breast tenderness, irritable bowel flare-ups, and carbohydrate cravings, as well as helping to control endometriosis-associated inflammation. Many PMS sufferers are found to have unusually low levels of GLA, which is why supplements might help so much. Women with fibrocystic breasts benefit from the oil’s essential fatty acids, minimizing breast inflammation and promoting the absorption of iodine; a mineral that can be present in abnormally low levels in women with this condition. It is widely reported that Evening Primrose oil reduces hot flushes and increases feelings of well being for menopausal women.
Joint Pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis:
GLA is important because some other types of omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation in the body, while GLA decreases inflammation. Some research indicates that evening primrose oil may help relieve the pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis when taken as a long-term supplement.
Diabetes:
Research indicates that the GLA in evening primrose oil can help prevent, and in some cases even reverse, the nerve damage of neuropathy so commonly seen with diabetes. In a year-long study, symptoms as numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in participants with mild diabetic neuropathy were less in those who took evening primrose oil than in those who took a placebo. Some herbalists also believe that evening primrose oil works to regulate insulin levels and may help prevent complications such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic atherosclerosis.
Eczema:
Eczema is thought to develop when the body has problems converting dietary fats into GLA. Some studies indicate that this oil replaces the low level GLA, relieving eczema-related inflammation, as well as the itching, oozing, and flaking associated with this condition. By taking GLA, eczema sufferers may tolerate reduced doses of steroid creams and drugs, many of which cause unpleasant side effects.
Acne and Rosacea:
Working to dilute sebum, a thick oily substance that is over-secreted in some people with acne, the essential fatty acids in evening primrose oil may reduce the risk of pores becoming clogged and lesions developing. The oil’s omega-6 essential fatty acid (EFAs) help treat Rosacea by reducing inflammation, controlling cells’ use of nutrients, and producing prostaglandins; stimulating the contraction of blood vessels.
Heart Disease, Atherosclerosis, COPD
Evening primrose has been reported effective in treating heart disease, atherosclerosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In a double-blind study taking 3 to 4 grams per day of evening primrose oil, results showed lowered cholesterol; possibly reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. GLA is an anticoagulant that researchers believe can reduce blood pressure, protect against coronary artery disease, and prevent heart attacks.
Impotence and Female Infertility:
By promoting blood flow, the GLA in evening primrose oil can help treat a primary cause of male impotence; compromised circulation leading to impaired penile blood flow. The oil is often taken with vitamin C and Ginkgo Biloba for this purpose. In addition, when the oil is taken long term, GLA can help prevent blood vessel narrowing, often a consequence of plaque buildup from high cholesterol. By improving uterine function, GLA may also help those who are unable to conceive.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms:
GLA prompts the brain to produce a specific type of prostaglandin called prostaglandin E, which works to prevent withdrawal symptoms such as depression and seizures by indirectly protecting the liver and nervous system. Alcoholics tend to be GLA-deficient and can benefit from taking evening primrose oil, especially during the withdrawal period. A double-blind study discovered that evening primrose oil supplements aided in improving liver function while the participants were undergoing a detoxification program. The subjects took 4 grams per day of evening primrose oil containing 360 mg of GLA. Other related studies showed that evening primrose oil helped to regenerate damaged liver cells in alcoholics.
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking any Vitamin or Supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any Vitamin or Supplement.
Pain and Inflammation
There are numerous causes of body pain and inflammation. One theory explains; inflammation causes the recruitment of the body’s white blood cells and chemicals to ward off infection and foreign substances, including bacteria and viruses. However, autoimmune diseases cause the body’s immune system to trigger an inflammatory response when there are no foreign substances to combat. Along with inflammation, autoimmune diseases may cause pain or discomfort throughout the body.
- Gouty Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica
- Joint Inflammation Diseases
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
There are also a lot of constitutional symptoms apart from the joint involvements, including fever, weakness and weight loss. According to the Hopkins’s Arthritis Center, internal organs like the lungs, nerves, heart, eyes and blood vessels are often involved in the disease process.
- Gout and Pseudogout
- Infective Arthritis
- Other Types of Arthritis
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking Vitamin B12 or any supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any supplements.
The Wonders Of Ginger and Honey
Both honey and ginger have their individual health benefits and the combination provides additional uses.
The health benefits of honey and ginger in treating respiratory problems are said to be unmatched by any other concoction. Honey is also an excellent medium for transmitting the benefits of herbs, such as ginger to the body.These health benefits include respiratory, asthma, indigestion, and many more.
The best way to consume ginger and honey is to mix one teaspoonful of ginger root juice with one teaspoonful of honey. Ginger honey crystals are also available. The crystallized ginger and honey retain most of the health benefits present in a fresh preparation, and are meant for instant ability to consume ginger and honey as a drink.
Ginger honey candies are also very popular. If your throat is congested and you are not able to speak properly, you should eat candied ginger and honey as it clears the throat immediately. Ginger honey candies are also useful during traveling. They are thought to help with motion sickness
Respiratory problems: The mixture of honey and ginger is an excellent expectorant and therefore provides instant relief to a person suffering from cough, cold, sore throat, and runny nose.
Asthma: It is also believed that a mixture of honey and ginger, along with black pepper is capable of treating or reducing the effect of asthma.
Indigestion: Ginger and honey are also available in the form of ginger honey tonic. It is believed that this tonic or syrup is a good digestive aid due to the inherent digestive properties of ginger. Both ginger and honey have antioxidant properties, increasing the immunity of the body as well. Consumption of one teaspoonful of ginger and honey tonic is thought to be very useful for people who have a weak digestive system.
Honey
Honey is considered very valuable not only for its many healthy benefits, but also because of the many ways it can be consumed. One can eat honey directly, put it on bread like a jam, mix it with juice or any drink instead of sugar, or mix it with warm water, lime juice, cinnamon, and other herbs to make a medicine. It is savored by all due to its taste as well as health benefits.
Benefits of honey include:
Sweetener: Sugar can be substituted with honey in many food and drinks. Honey contains about 69% glucose and fructose enabling it to be used as a sweetener.
Energy Source: Honey contains about 64 calories per tablespoon. Therefore honey can be used as a source of energy. Honey can also be easily converted into glucose by even the most sensitive stomachs, making it very easy to digest.
Weight Loss: It’s true that honey has more calories than sugar, however when honey is consumed with warm water… it helps in digesting the fat stored in your body. It’s also said that honey and lemon juice and/or honey and cinnamon help with reducing weight.
Improving Athletic Performance: Recent research has shown that honey is an excellent Ergogenic aid and helps in boosting the performance of athletes. Honey is believed to facilitate in maintaining blood sugar levels, muscle recuperation, and glycogen restoration after a workout.
Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Honey contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. The type of vitamins and minerals, as well as their quantity, depends on the type of flowers used for apiculture. Commonly, honey contains Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.
Antioxidants: Honey contains nutraceuticals, which are effective in removing free radicals from our body. As a result, our body immunity can be improved.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: Honey has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and has been used as a natural antiseptic.
Honey in Wound Management
Significant research is being carried out to study the benefits of honey in treating wounds. Some findings state this:
*Honey possesses antimicrobial properties.
*It helps in promoting autolytic debridement.
*It deodorizes malodorous wounds.
*It speeds up the healing process by stimulating wound tissues.
*It helps in initiating the healing process in dormant wounds.
*Honey also helps in promoting moist wound healing.
Ginger Root Oil
Health Benefits of Ginger Root Oil can be attributed to its digestive, carminative, expectorant, antiseptic, analgesic, anti inflammatory, stimulating and aphrodisiac properties. These benefits of ginger oil claim the ability to treat stomach problems, nausea, heart strokes, indigestion, inflammations, respiratory problems, menstrual disorders, and more.
Ginger is a commonly used spice and is also used as a preservative and flavoring agent.
Ginger oil is obtained from the root of the herb Zingiber Officinale. The peculiar hot taste and pungent taste of ginger is from an acrid compound called Gingerol. Most of the health benefits of ginger are due to Gingerol.
Benefits of ginger root oil:
Stomach: Ginger root and ginger oil is often used for stomach upsets. It is claimed to be one of the best remedies for indigestion, stomach ache, dyspepsia, colic, spasms, diarrhea, flatulence, and other stomach and bowel related problems
Food poisoning: Ginger is antiseptic and carminative. As a result, it has been used for treating food poisoning. It has also been used for treating intestinal infections and bacterial dysentery.
Nausea and Vomiting: Research shows that ginger root and its oil is also effective against nausea, motion sickness and vomiting. Usage of ginger may result in reduction in pregnancy related vomiting as well in women.
Heart Problems: Preliminary research has indicated that ginger may be helpful in reduction of cholesterol levels and prevention of blood clotting. With reduced cholesterol levels and blood clotting, the chances of blockage of blood vessels decrease. This may reduce the incidences of heart strokes.
Respiratory Disorders: Since ginger root and ginger oil is a good expectorant, it is believed to be effective in various respiratory problems such as cold, cough, flu, asthma, bronchitis, and breathlessness. Ginger is thought to be very effective in removing mucus from the throats and lungs, so the use of honey and ginger together in treating respiratory problems is a common practice.
Inflammation and Pain: Extract of ginger is often used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation. Research is showing anti-inflammatory properties that can be attributed to the presence of the substance named Zingibain. It is analgesic in nature and can reduce the pain caused by muscle aches, arthritis, rheumatisms, headache, and migraine. Ginger oil or paste of ginger is often massaged on aching muscles to remove muscle strain. It is believed that regular use of ginger leads to reduction of prostaglandins which are the compounds associated with pain.
Malaria: Ginger root and ginger oil is claimed to be effective against yellow fever and malaria.
Stress: Ginger oil, being an essential oil is stimulating and therefore relives depression, mental stress, exhaustion, dizziness, restlessness, and anxiety.
Kidney: It is also believed that ginger root juice is able to dissolve kidney stones.
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking Vitamin B12 or any supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any supplements.
Borage Oil, the Omega-6
The borage plant goes by many names; star flower, tailwort, bugloss, or beebread. It grows to about one and a half feet tall and has been harvested for its leaves and stems, as well as the seeds. The seeds are what it is mostly grown for, because they are what is used to make borage oil.
Borage oil is one of the best known sources of the essential fatty acids known as Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). It is also called Omega-6. It has 24 percent of this valuable substance, which is even higher than evening primrose oil or black currant seed oil.
GLA is something that many people in western societies are deficient of due to aging, fat consumption, glucose intolerance, and other factors. GLA is also believed to be useful in helping people with premenstrual syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes and scleroderma. It thought that these individuals have a metabolic block that prevents their bodies from making GLA.
Other known medicinal uses are to treat arthritis, atopic eczema and some forms of respiratory problems. It’s thought to work for these illnesses because of its anti-inflammatory factors.
Many other benefits
Experiments have been done that show many benefits of borage oil for the skin. In one test, 20 people with dry and scaly skin were given borage based cream to use for two weeks. The oil was able to restore the moisture content in their skin and help to make it more smooth and soft.
Another test of this oil and skin conditions involved 48 babies who had a severe case of cradle cap, which is a form of infant seborrheic dermatitis. This causes dry, crusty and scaly skin on their heads, eyelids, face, breasts, groin, and under their armpits. Borage oil was used on the affected areas twice a day, curing the symptoms in two weeks.
When the treatment was stopped, the cradle cap returned within a week’s time. It was thought that these babies weren’t able to produce their own sufficient levels of GLA, to prevent the dry and scaly skin conditions.
The GLA produced by borage oil is also a precursor for prostaglandins, which is used in many of the functions in our bodies such as hormone production, maintaining blood pressure, and regulating our bodies autonomic or smooth muscle reflexes. GLA is also believed to help get rid of plaque in the arteries of the blood system that prevents hardening of the arteries, leading to less risk of heart problems. Other claims made are that it can help symptoms of hot flashes; common in menopausal women. (Always consult your health care provider.)
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking Vitamin B12 or any supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any supplements.
B12 and YOU
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement, and a prescription medication. Vitamin B12 exists in several forms and contains the mineral cobalt, so compounds with vitamin B12 activity are collectively called “cobalamins”. Methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin are the forms of vitamin B12 that are active in human metabolism.
- The technical break down:
Vitamin B12 is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis.
Vitamin B12 functions as a cofactor for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Methionine synthase catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. Methionine is required for the formation of S-adenosylmethionine, a universal methyl donor for almost 100 different substrates, including DNA, RNA, hormones, proteins, and lipids. L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase converts L-methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA in the degradation of propionate, an essential biochemical reaction in fat and protein metabolism. Succinyl-CoA is also required for hemoglobin synthesis.
- How we absorb B12 via food:
Vitamin B12, bound to protein in food, is released by the activity of hydrochloric acid and gastric protease in the stomach. When synthetic vitamin B12 is added to fortified foods and dietary supplements, it is already in free form and, thus, does not require this separation step. Free vitamin B12 then combines with intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein secreted by the stomach’s parietal cells, and the resulting complex undergoes absorption within the distal ileum by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Approximately 56% of a 1 mcg oral dose of vitamin B12 is absorbed, but absorption decreases drastically when the capacity of intrinsic factor is exceeded (at 1–2 mcg of vitamin B12).
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease that affects the gastric mucosa and results in gastric atrophy. This leads to the destruction of parietal cells, achlorhydria, and failure to produce intrinsic factor, resulting in vitamin B12 malabsorption. If pernicious anemia is left untreated, it causes vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to megaloblastic anemia and neurological disorders, even in the presence of adequate dietary intake of vitamin B12.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency is characterized by megaloblastic anemia, fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Neurological changes, such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, can also occur. Additional symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include difficulty maintaining balance, depression, confusion, dementia, poor memory, and soreness of the mouth or tongue. The neurological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can occur without anemia, so early diagnosis and intervention is important to avoid irreversible damage. During infancy, signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency include failure to thrive, movement disorders, developmental delays, and megaloblastic anemia. Many of these symptoms are general and can result from a variety of medical conditions other than vitamin B12 deficiency.
Typically, vitamin B12 deficiency is treated with vitamin B12 injections, since this method bypasses potential barriers to absorption. However, high doses of oral vitamin B12 may also be effective. Overall, an individual patient’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 is the most important factor in determining whether vitamin B12 should be administered orally or via injection.
NOTE: Folic acid and vitamin B12
Large amounts of folic acid can mask the damaging effects of vitamin B12 deficiency by correcting the megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency without correcting the neurological damage that also occurs. Moreover, preliminary evidence suggests that high serum Folate levels might not only mask vitamin B12 deficiency, but could also exacerbate the anemia and worsen the cognitive symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. Permanent nerve damage can occur if vitamin B12 deficiency is not treated. For these reasons, folic acid intake from fortified food and supplements should not exceed 1,000 mcg daily in healthy adults.
- Fibromyalgia causes vitamin B12 deficiency.
Managing chronic pain means treating yourself to lots of TLC, and that includes getting mega doses of vitamin B12 supplements. Fibromyalgia has a high correlation with vitamin B12 deficiency, due to gastric atrophy caused by fibromyalgia symptoms. Unfortunately, unless your doctor screens for low vitamin B12 (cobalamin) levels, you could have B12 deficiency without even knowing it. Here are some tips on getting enough vitamin B12 with fibromyalgia. If you have fibromyalgia, then you need to get your B12 levels tested routinely. There are several reasons for this, the main one being:
One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia includes a wearing away of the stomach’s lining. Your stomach cells make a digestive enzyme, intrinsic factor that is crucial for digesting vitamin B12 from food sources like meat, fish, and eggs. Damage to the stomach causes decreased production of intrinsic factor, causing vitamin B12 deficiency. Only a blood test can determine if you have B12 deficiency.
- Scientists believe that autoimmune disorders are often comorbid with each other. So, if you have fibromyalgia, then you are at a high risk of also having autoimmune pernicious anemia or celiac disease. With pernicious anemia, your stomach fails to make intrinsic factor for vitamin B12 absorption because of an autoimmune disorder that attacks your stomach cells. A test for intrinsic factor antibodies can determine if that is the case.
The problem is, Fibromyalgia and vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are alike. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms may mask themselves as other ailments. This can get confusing for doctors and patients alike, especially when you already have a chronic illness that includes similar symptoms. Pernicious anemia can be misdiagnosed as depression, fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue, as symptoms include both physical and mental disorders.
- Typical symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- Severe fatigue
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Aggressiveness
- Muddled thinking (brain fog)
- Poor attention skills
- Painful tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased motor control
- Frequent clumsiness or tripping
- Impaired memory
Disclaimer
*Always be responsible when taking nutritional supplements. Consult your alternative medical professional before taking Vitamin B12 or any supplement. Follow directions as prescribed by your medical provider. Naturalalphalipoicacid.com or BuyTellservices, LLC are not responsible for any abuse or misuse of any supplements.
Demolish Freeradicals
Free radicals are nasty little beasts. They destroy our cells and can cause cancer and other life threatening dis-ease. It has been shown that foods with high OREC value provides the body with a strong defense when it comes to free radicals.
Where do we pick up these nasty little free radical cell destroyers? Free radicals are found in a number of places including:
- Burnt Oils- Vegetable oil, Olive Oil, Canola Oil and other oils like Peanut Oil all burn when heated to a certain temperature. When they burn the molecular structure changes and they become carcinogenics (free radicals) Note: Grape Seed Oil is safe to use at high temperatures.
- Chemicals- We may ingest them through preservatives and other chemicals we come in contact with. Cleaning products, paints, and even some medications may cause free radicals within the body.
- Pollution- Air pollution, and other toxic fumes from gasses and chemicals like ammonia.
How do we protect ourselves from free radicals that cause cell damage? We eat a healthy diet that is high in OREC Antioxidants. The 
report below has a list of those fruits and vegetables. They should be organic, free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Even though this is one of the richest countries in the world, that wealth is used to create ever increasingly more highly processed foods and is not used to provide Americans with fresh organic healthy foods. Americans have been fixated on convenience, and speed instead of health. If we would re-align our focus from the easy to the healthy we would eat more of these healthful fruits and vegetables.
Many Americans are realizing this and are changing their life styles. Unfortunately a large percentage of Americans have already experienced free radical damage. The good news is the greater the amount of free radicals a food or nutrient can combat, the higher its ORAC score. This standard, developed in a collaborated effort by the National Institute on Aging and the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging is what prompted Nature’s Answer to develop “ORAC Super 7″ ORAC Super 7 contains a hand selected combination of some of the world’s most powerful, high ORAC scoring berry and fruit extracts.
To further enhance this anti-oxidant formula, ORAC Super 7adds additional all natural ingredients, such as organic apple, organic pear and organic agave nectar. Quik-Sorb, Nature’s Answer’s exclusive proprietary blend of herbs known to enhance the delivery of nutrients to the body, completes this delicious, high ORAC formulation. ORAC Super 7 – “It’s Nature’s Answer”
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/1999/990208.htm
Journey On,
Rose Louise
Aloe Vera for Digestion Disorders
When your digestion is not working properly, it can mean a wide range of symptoms anywhere from constipation and diarrhea, stomach aches, cramps, heartburn and reflux issues. You might experience only one of these digestive symptoms, or a combination of them. And they’re not only painful and uncomfortable, but they can affect a person’s quality of life. Aloe Vera may be just the kind of attention your digestion needs.
Constipation issues are one of the most common digestive complaints. The definition of constipation is infrequent bowel movements (although that by itself does not necessarily indicate constipation), difficulty passing a stool and the feeling that there is incomplete evacuation of the bowels does. Other symptoms of constipation include abdominal pain, bloating, and distention. Often, constipation can be attributed to a diet low in fiber, inadequate fluid intake, or a non-active lifestyle. Constipation can also occur as a side-effect of medications.
Diarrhea is usually caused by parasites, bacteria or viruses. It can also indicate a chronic underlying condition, such as Crohn’s disease. In the western world diarrhea, although uncomfortable for a few days, is not usually life-threatening. If persistent, there are dangers of dehydration.
Heartburn occurs when stomach acids come up through the esophageal sphincter and irritate the soft tissues of the esophagus, causing pain and inflammation. The pain is usually intense and felt over the breastbone near the heart. (That’s why it’s called heartburn, although it has nothing to do with the heart.) The esophageal sphincter is a ring of muscle that should allow food to travel only in one direction – downwards into the stomach and down into the rest of the digestive system. If the symptoms of acid reflux become chronic, it can lead to gastro-esophageal reflux disease.
Aloe Vera has been used successfully for centuries to combat skin conditions and yes, these bowel conditions. Although it might sound unlikely that a natural plant can help with skin conditions as well as digestive problems, it’s worth considering. The fact is, the lining of the gut is endothelial tissue just like the skin. Aloe Vera is full of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can help heal stomach and digestive disorders. Research has shown that it balances and modulates the immune system, so it also lowers food intolerance and the body’s reaction to them. (I am not suggesting that Aloe Vera will take away a food intolerance, so continue to listen to what your body tells you.) It can also soothe the stomach and help with acid reflux issues very quickly, as it forms a semi-protective barrier on the endothelial lining of the esophagus; helping to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. Aloe Vera is renowned for its effect on the bowel – particularly on helping both constipation and diarrhea. It soothes, heals and allows the gut to return to its normal state of functioning; Healthy and normal.
Journey On,
Rose Louise
Fish Oil, Prevention and Reversal of Heart Disease
A lot of the benefits fish oil provides, seem to come from the omego-3 fatty acids that it contains. Our bodies don’t produce it on its own… nor can the body make omega-3 fatty acids from omega-6 fatty acids which are common in the Western Diet. A lot of research has been done on EPA and DHA, the two types of omega-3 acids that are included in fish oil. I’ll try to break down for you.
The American Heart Association recommends we eat around 2 “fatty fish” (such as mackerel, herring, tuna, halibut, or salmon) meals a week. However, because of the high costs and the risks of toxins found in our fish and ocean waters; we have turned to supplements.
Have you ever wondered what exactly is so important in fish or fish oil? Well, I’ve done the research and am here to explain. Fish Oil contains two of the most important omeg-3 fatty acids used by our body, which is: Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) benefits many things such as: High blood pressure pregnancies (eclampsia), age-relates macular degeneration (AMD), Heart Disease, Schizophrenia, Personality disorder, Cystic Fibrosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, and Diabetes. So what does this mean to us? EPA can prevent the blood from clotting easily. These fatty acids also reduce pain and swelling. It’s also used in combination with RNA and L-arginine after surgery to reduce infection, improve wound healing, and shorten recover time. While DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) has an omega-3 fatty acid that is a primary structural component of the human brain cerebral cortex, sperm, testicles, and retina. DHA is also found naturally in breast milk.
Note: Do not confuse DHA with EPA. They are both fish oil, but they are not the same. DHA can be converted into EPA in the body. DHA plays a key role in the development of the eye and the nerve tissues. DHA may also reduce the risk of the heart and circulatory disease by decreasing the thickness of the blood and lowering blood levels of triglycerides. DHA is also used for treating people with type two diabetes, coronary artery disease (CAD), dementia, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Now that we’ve covered what fish oil is, its components, and uses… I will leave you with a list of health benefits EPH and DHA is said to help with. Of course always consult your physician.
DHA + EPA for a Variety of Conditions:
- Prevention and Reversal of Heart Disease
- Stabilizing Heart Rhythm
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Painful Menstrual Periods
- Hay fever
- Lung Disease
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Kidney Diseases
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood Pressure
- Psoriasis
- Raynaud’s Syndrome
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Bipolar Disorder
- Certain inflammations of the Digestive system (Ulcerative Colitis)
- Preventing Migraine Headaches in teens.
*DHA and EPA is also used in a combination with Evening Primrose Oil, Thyme Oil, and Vitamin E (Efalex) to improve movement disorders in children with conditions called dyspraxia.
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