At the turn of the 20th century (1900), U.S. women were most likely to die from infectious diseases and complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Today, in the first decade of the 21st century, 63 percent of American women die as a result of the chronic conditions of heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Heart disease leads the pack.

Improving women’s health, and increasing awareness and understanding of women’s health issues, is the task of the Office on Women’s Health (OWH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. OWH is celebrating the thirteenth annual National Women’s Health Week this year from May 13–19^th as a way to accomplish its mission. The 2012 celebration starts on Mother’s Day and ends on the following Saturday. However, women’s healthcare has a therapeutic ally that cannot be confined to a one-week national celebration. It’s a proven women’s health enhancer and stress reliever–laughter.

Laughter: A Heart-Healthy Activity

It’s been said that laughter is the best medicine. A growing body of research supports the theory that laughter has therapeutic value and may be an antidote to heart disease.

In 2000 and again in 2005, a team of researchers at University of Maryland Center for Preventive Cardiology, led by the Center’s director Dr. Michael Miller, released study results which point to a strong connection between laughter and cardiovascular health.

In 2000, Dr. Miller led a research team that conducted a study on the humor response comparison of 300 people. Fifty percent had suffered a heart attack or undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. Fifty percent were healthy, age-matched participants without heart disease. Miller said that the most significant finding was that “people with heart disease responded less humorously to everyday life situations. They generally laughed less, even in positive situations, and they displayed more anger and hostility.” He went on to say that perhaps laughter should be added to the list of recommended behaviors known to reduce the risk of heart disease, like exercising, not smoking and eating foods low in saturated fat.

In 2005, Miller and his team of researchers released the results of another study. Using laughter-provoking movies to gauge the effect of emotions on cardiovascular health, the study showed that laughter appears to cause the tissue that forms the inner lining of blood vessels, the endothelium, to dilate or expand in order to increase blood flow.

The results of their study point to a strong connection between laughter and cardiovascular health. “The magnitude of change we saw in the endothelium is similar to the benefit we might see with aerobic activity, but without the aches, pains and muscle tension associated with exercise,” says Dr. Miller. “We don’t recommend that you laugh and not exercise, but we do recommend that you try to laugh on a regular basis. Thirty minutes of exercise three times a week and 15 minutes of laughter on a daily basis is probably good for the vascular system.”

Laughter: A Guaranteed Stress Reliever

Stress at work is a growing problem for women in the workplace. In one survey, 60 percent of employed women cited stress as their number one problem at work. Furthermore, levels of stress-related illness are nearly twice as high for women as for men. Once again, researchers are telling us that laughter has many physiological and emotional benefits that help to combat stress related illness. “When you are laughing, you discharge tension associated with four primary negative emotions–depression, anxiety, fear and anger,” says Dr. William Fry, a behavioral scientist, psychiatrist and Emeritus Associate Clinical Professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine of Stanford University.

Dr. Lee Berk, a pioneer researcher studying positive emotions/behaviors and their biochemical/physiological effects on stress hormones and immune system components in the field of Psychoneuroimmunology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, says “Laughter can relax the muscles, increase alertness and memory, reduce pain, lessen emotional stress and lower blood pressure.”

With all the physiological and psychological health benefits evidenced by solid scientific research, leading-edge organizations in the Triad are embracing therapeutic laughter activities to reduce stress and enhance quality of work life for staff.

Employee Wellness at High Point Regional Health System (HPRHS), asked Certified Laughter Leader Marilyn Sprague-Smith to help employees put laughter back in their lives. “Marilyn is showing us how to use laughter to lighten up our mental workload and bring a sense of joy, happiness and harmony into our daily activities,” says Sue Cumpston, Employee Wellness Coordinator for the health system. The program was brought to HPRHS as a community outreach service of Unity’s laughter club program.

You, too, can choose to let laughter be your therapeutic ally for increased health and wellness. Get involved in National Women’s Health Week by creating a personal health and wellness plan. Remember Dr. Miller’s heart-healthy prescription, “thirty minutes of exercise three times a week and 15 minutes of laughter daily.” Your heart, and every system in your body, will thank you.

Marilyn Sprague-Smith, M.Ed. is an award-winning consultant, trainer, professional speaker, author and certified laughter leader. She is one of only six people in the world authorized by The World Laughter Tour to deliver laughter leader certification training. For more information visit www.miraclesmagicinc.com, or go to www.worldlaughtertour.com.

From dairy products to fresh fruits and vegetables, we all know that we should eat a well-balanced variety of foods in order to get the vitamins and nutrients our bodies need to function properly. Scientific evidence suggests B vitamins are some of the most important vitamins we should always make sure to include in our diets. Vitamins are complicated molecules that we need in very minute quantities to stay healthy, and to prevent a wide range of diseases. Each vitamin has an irreplaceable role in the body’s metabolism and they are essential to our health.

There are eight B vitamins. They generally function as coenzymes in biochemical transformations for important bodily functions. Over the years, governmental regulations have been put into place in the United States, making it mandatory for many foods like whole grain products to be fortified with B vitamins. However, intakes above the Reference Daily Intake (RDI) may be particularly important in people with defects in the absorption of these vitamins, especially in aging adults. So, if you’re not already taking a vitamin B complex, you may want to consider it!

The B vitamins are: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (B9), and cobalamin (B12).

Thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2) function as coenzymes in the metabolism of carbohydrates and certain amino acids to help the body produce energy.

Common foods in the U.S. containing thiamine include bread products, grains, and ready-to-eat cereals that have been enriched or fortified with the vitamin. Most plant and animal tissues contain traces of riboflavin. Dairy products, especially milk, are the richest food source of riboflavin.

Niacin (B3) refers to nicotinamide and nicotinic acid. It functions in energy production at a cellular level and helps keep the skin, nervous system, and digestive system healthy. High doses of niacin have been shown to lower cholesterol.

Mammals cannot synthesize most vitamins. Niacin is different in that our bodies make it from tryptophan, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish and poultry. Foods including beans and liver also contain niacin in the free form.

Pantothenic acid (B5) is needed for the synthesis of coenzyme A, a cofactor for many processes that influence growth and development. It is essential to almost all forms of life and it is found in virtually all plant and animal cells. Foods like chicken, beef, potatoes, oat cereals, tomato products, liver, kidney, yeast, egg yolk, broccoli, and whole grains are all major sources of pantothenic acid. Dietary deficiencies of the vitamin are very rare since it is widely distributed in the foods we eat.

Pyridoxine (B6) functions as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids that help the body break down protein. It also helps maintain the health of red blood cells, the nervous system, and parts of the immune system.

As with vitamin B5, pyridoxine deficiencies are rare since the vitamin is widely distributed in vegetables, cereal, and animal foods.

Biotin (B7) helps break down protein and carbohydrates. It is a coenzyme in reactions involving the production of hormones.

Milk, liver, eggs, and a few vegetables are the most important natural sources of biotin in human nutrition. Less common foods that are rich sources of the vitamin include brewer’s yeast and royal jelly, which comes from the glands of honeybees.

Folate (B9) helps cells in the body synthesize DNA. It is important in the production of red blood cells and is required for normal cell division. Folic acid is the most stable form of folate; it is the form used in vitamin supplements and fortified foods in the U.S.

There is evidence that folate may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and psychiatric and mental disorders. Folate supplementation is also particularly important in pregnancy as it significantly reduces the chances of negative pregnancy outcomes such as neural tube defects.

The greatest contribution of folate in the U.S. diet comes from fortified cereals and vegetables like green beans, green peas, lettuce, and cabbage. Organ meats such as liver are especially rich in folate.

Cobalmin (B12) is an important part of the body’s growth and development. It is a coenzyme in the production of blood cells, nervous system function, and the expenditure of carbohydrates.

Vegetarians and vegans have a high risk of B12 deficiency because unlike other B vitamins, B12 is not a normal constituent of plant foods. Vitamin B12 is found mainly in animal foods including shellfish, organ meats, and a few kinds of fish. These foods are not a part of the average diet and it has become a routine medical practice to check for B12 deficiencies in patients who exhibit common symptoms of anemia.

Like most vitamins, many of the B vitamins have metabolic interrelationships in which they work together to produce essential cofactors that assist in biochemical transformations. They are dependent on one another in order to work properly. For example, both folate and vitamin B12 are required for the formation of 5,10-methylene tetrahydrofolate, an essential cofactor in normal DNA synthesis. Inadequate folate or B12 intake causes anemia, a disorder in which there are too few red blood cells.

Elevated DNA damage and altered gene expression are also important risk factors of cancer. Therefore, many doctors and health professionals recommend adults take a daily vitamin B complex to reduce the risk of cancer.

Several studies found that supplementation with a vitamin B complex led to decreased anxiety, improved well-being, energy, and decreased stress in both men and women. These benefits are another important aspect of good personal health.

Given the scientific evidence behind the many possible health benefits of B vitamin supplementation, it seems more important than ever to make sure we are getting an adequate supply of these vitamins. So, consider the information that’s out there and if you want to start taking simple steps to maintain good health, just remember to take your vitamins!

References:

1. Find Support & Treatment: Herbs, Vitamins, and Minerals. American Cancer Society, 2011. Web. 25 Mar. 2012.

2.< http://m.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/Complementar yandAlternativeMedicine/HerbsVitaminsandMinerals/vitamin-b-complex>

3. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1998. Print.

4. Frankenburg, Frances Rachel. Vitamin Discoveries and Disasters: History,  Science, and Controversies. Santa Barbara:  ABC-CLIO, LLC, 2009. Print.

5. Remacle, Claude, and Brigitte Reusens.. Functional foods, ageing and degenerative disease. Boca Raton,: Woodhead Publishing, 2004. Print.

6. Kennedy, David O., et al. “Effects of high-dose B vitamin complex with vitamin C and minerals on subjective mood and performance in healthy males.” Springer (2010): n.pag Web. 25 Mar. 2012.

How often do you think about Amino Acids? For most people, not so much. Well, your body “thinks” about them 100 percent of the time! While most of us have heard that amino acids are the building blocks of protein, do we really grasp their importance–that without them our bodies simply cannot make the proteins required by every living cell? In a sense, that makes amino acids the “building blocks” of our bodies! Is your body getting the amino acids it needs every day? Are you living your most vibrant life?

The collective role of amino acids in the repair and maintenance of a healthy body make them vital. There are an estimated 100,000 plus proteins found in the human body made from combinations of amino acids. These combinations are responsible for:

• Building and repairing cells including muscles, organs, glands, bones, skin, hair and nails
• Making metabolic and digestive enzymes
• Making neurotransmitters–critical for brain and nerve function
• Making hormones
• The production of antibodies–which fight against infection and illness
• Building a healthy immune system

If one amino acid is deficient, can you imagine how easy it is for a chain reaction of symptoms to occur within your body?

About 75 percent of the human body is comprised of long and short chain protein molecules[1] made up of amino acids. Of the classic 22 amino acids, 12 are non-essential and 10 are essential (meaning our bodies cannot make them on their own; we must ingest them every day in our diet and/or by supplementation–our bodies do not store amino acids like they store fats and starches). A deficiency in even one of the 10 essential amino acids sets up a cannibalistic-type reaction within our bodies–breaking down our body’s proteins (muscle and so forth)–searching for the missing amino acid!

Our mental and emotional wellbeing is another vital area where amino acids are required for proper functioning. Communication within the brain and nervous system occur through chemical “languages” used by neurotransmitters–two fairly well known neurotransmitters are Serotonin and Dopamine. Neurotransmitters are powerful chemical messengers that regulate numerous physical and behavioral processes, including cognitive and mental performance, emotional states, and pain response. Amino acids support the natural replenishment of neurotransmitters.

Additionally, amino acids aid in the detoxification processes of our systems–removing the internal pollutants that are created from environmental chemicals, medicines, nicotine, alcohol, processed foods, and so on.

Do you think you’re getting enough protein in your diet? If you suffer from any of the following conditions, you may not be getting sufficient amino acids:

• Fatigue
• Carbohydrate cravings
• Allergies
• Hypoglycemia
• Low-serotonin conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, insomnia, or fibromyalgia
• Low-endorphin conditions such as chronic physical or emotional pain, or addictions

The body cannot directly use the proteins found in food. Protein that we consume has to be broken down into amino acids, which the body then uses to build the different specific proteins it needs. That means it is actually the amino acids, and not the protein itself, that are the essential nutrients.

Amino acid deficiency as the root of illness and correcting those deficiencies as the remedy is perhaps the most widely overlooked and underutilized diagnosis and treatment protocol within our healthcare system today. Thus, if you are suffering from any of the above conditions, you may be interested to know that there are safe, cost-effective, all natural remedies to these and other common ailments in the form of supplementation with amino acids, in conjunction with certain vitamins and minerals.

In summary, every system in our bodies requires amino acids to function properly–our bones and organs, our digestive tract, our brain and nervous system, and even our emotional wellbeing. Amino acids are essential to support a healthy body throughout each phase of life–infancy, childhood, adulthood and elderhood. These are some very powerful little nutrients: the Amazing Amino Acids!

References:

1. Moore, Jason E. M.S., M.B.A., TLSC Biotech 101 Noc 2010. Calder PC, Kew S. The immune system: a target for functional foods? Br J Nutr 2002 Nov;88 Suppl 2:S165-77.:S165-S177.

2. Shipman, J., Wilson, J., Todd, A., An Introduction to Physical Science, 7th Ed., D. C. Heath, 1993.

3. Capuron L, Hauser P, Hinze-Selch D, Miller AH, Neveu PJ. Treatment of cytokine-induced depression. Brain Behav Immun 2002 Oct;16(5):575-80.

4. Jones HE, Johnson RE, Bigelow GE, Silverman K, Mudric T, Strain EC. Safety and efficacy of L-tryptophan and behavioral incentives for treatment of cocaine dependence: a randomized clinical trial. Am J Addict 2004 Oct;13(5):421-37.

5. Haze JJ. Toward an understanding of the rationale for the use of dietary supplementation for chronic pain management: the serotonin model. Cranio 1991 Oct;9(4):339-43.

But that’s not all. Vitamin E has other functions, some completely unrelated to its role as an antioxidant. In addition to its powerful antioxidant properties, vitamin E:

• Promotes heart health.
• Promotes respiratory health.
• Helps with normal PMS symptoms.
• Supports circulation.
• Supports prostate and breast health.
• Is good for your brain.
• May help hot flashes in menopausal women.

Discovered in 1922, it is only in the last decade that the public began to be educated about the critical fact that vitamin E is not a single compound, but rather a general name for a whole family of compounds.

Research is beginning to focus on specific tocopherols, rather than on just “vitamin E.” Look for a blend of natural source tocopherols providing the antioxidant benefits of vitamin E. Vitamin E should contain d-alpha tocopherol, with the benefits of beta, delta, and substantial gamma tocopherols.

Getting to know all the compounds in the vitamin E family of tocopherols is necessary to choose the right vitamin E product and get the full benefits of this superior antioxidant and nutrient.

Important Facts You Should Know About Vitamin E

Vitamin E is essential to life–we cannot live without it.

How much vitamin E is enough? Prominent researchers believe that to perform at its best, the body needs more than the US Daily Value (DV) of 30 IU vitamin E daily and the average American diet supplies considerably less than this amount. According to renowned international researcher Dr. Evan Shute, a physician recognized for his over 30 years of work with vitamin E, average healthy females should have 400 IU a day, and average healthy males 600 IU a day.

Vitamin E should be taken at mealtime–it is absorbed better when taken with meals rather than an on an empty stomach.

Inorganic Iron can DESTROY vitamin E. According to the Shute Institute, the two should be separated in the stomach by an 8-9 hour interval. However, organic iron, found in spinach, and other iron rich foods can be taken at the same time as vitamin E.

*This article was reprinted with permission from www.mercola.com.

Written By Dr. James Rouse |

Change your thinking, change your life” is a philosophical and spiritual mantra that most of us embrace with passionate conviction. You may find it inspiring to know that you can positively impact your thinking, emotions, and outlook through a practice of affirmative eating.

The turn of the New Year is the perfect time to refresh your thinking about your eating plan, not only for nourishing your body but also for nourishing your mind. Simply put: eating right is as much a mental boost as it is a physical one.

I have witnessed, both clinically and personally, the impact that the right foods can have on creating inspired thinking and living. Your food choices do impact your mental and emotional body chemistry. You can help to create a positive mental and emotional thinking environment by choosing foods that are rich in key compounds that serve as building blocks for your body and brain’s chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters serve many different functions. One of which is to keep your mind, mood and motivation on track and focused. Neurotransmitters also support your thoughts and thinking in a positive way!

If you are looking to get the most spirited “bang from your brain” you can employ affirmative eating and set your thoughts and vision on a course for fine-tuned think- ing and greater well-being! There are four powerful neurotransmitters that, when supported through healthier living and eating practices, can help you experience less moodiness, depression and anxiety, and greater focus, energy and concentration … and help you sleep better and give you greater control of your sugar cravings.

These “fantastic four” include serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine and nor epi- nephrine. How do they work? What can they do for you? How can you build your own optimal levels?

1. Serotonin: Serotonin is like a natural anti-depressant and helps manage your crav- ings for high drama carbohydrates like cookies, cakes and chips. When your levels of serotonin are healthy, your mood and sense of personal peace is alive and well. You can build your stores of serotonin by eating foods rich in the amino acid tryptophan found in poultry and avocados, and in whole grains, legumes and tofu.

2. Dopamine is all about energy, passion and greater concentration. When fatigue and lethargy appear to be your normal state of being, you may want to do your best to support your natural and optimal levels of dopamine. You can do this by choosing foods rich in the amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine which can be found in low fat dairy products, eggs, rice and fish.

3. If you’re feeling like your brain and your memory are experiencing more than just temporary difficulties with recall, and concentration is fleeting at best, then you may wish to boost your levels of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine promotes mental fit- ness, and supports overall optimism and balance. You can serve yourself and your memory by consuming choline rich foods like oatmeal, soy foods, nuts, whole grains, sesame seeds and brewers yeast. Choline can actually boost levels of acetylcholine in the body.

4. When stress, sleep disturbances, depression and general lack of happiness and fulfillment are making their presence known on an all-too-often basis, you may want to boost your levels of nor epinephrine. Nor epinephrine has a stimulating effect on the brain, and it promotes positive perception, motivation and energy. It can also be helpful in supporting balance and focus during stressful situations, and promote an optimistic outlook while under stress too. The food base building block for this “happiness hormone” is the amino acid phenylalanine and can be found in fish, eggs, poultry, legumes, red vegetables, spinach, apples, and, thank goodness, chocolate! (just keep your consumption moderate and go with the dark variety).

When your need for “comfort food” is winning over your need for eating healthy, think about the “fabulous four” and try to choose foods that will optimize your levels of these neurotransmitters. With affirmative eating practices you can build optimal levels of these chemical messengers which I often refer to as chemicals for greater contentment and experience peak performance of your mind, body and spirit!

A wonderful side effect of this type of eating plan is that it is naturally balanced with lean proteins, metabolically supportive carbohydrates and healthy fats, which can also be helpful in supporting healthy weight management and in the prevention of many chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. I encourage you to begin each meal choice with the “end in mind.” Consider the outcome you are looking for with your food and your meals. Is your desire to just fill up, or are you looking for an experience of true and sustained nourishment that fuels your body and mind to co-create with spirit to live and give from your highest expression?

Affirmative eating can be a vital endeavor on the path to greater peace and well-being. Begin today. Set your table and your intention. Let the grace begin…

Dr. James Rouse is creator and co founder of Optimum Wellness media www.opimumwellness.com and Mix1 Beverages www.mix1life.com

Salt has to be, hands down, the most commonly found ingredient of all time. We use it in nearly everything. Salt is also another food that is plagued by nutritional misinformation. Most notably: salt-restricted diets. Early researchers uncovered a correlation between high blood sugars and dietary salt intake. However, subsequent studies have not proved this to be true. In fact, a 1930’s study found that salt deficiency led to a loss of taste sensation, cramps, weakness, and cardiovascular distress upon exertion. Furthermore, a large study in 1983 found that in some cases, restriction of dietary salt actually raised blood pressure.

With very few exceptions, most traditional cultures have used salt in some form. Cultures that were isolated, or lived far from naturally occurring salt sources, would burn sodium-rich marsh grasses and add the ash to their food. Salt not only enhances the flavor of food, it provides us with countless minerals. Not only sodium, but chloride, needed for the formation of hydrochloric acid. It activates amylases, needed for the proper digestion of carbohydrate foods. Chloride supports proper function of the brain, nervous system and many other processes of the body as well. Magnesium and countless trace minerals from the sea, including Iodine can also be found in salt.

When nutritionists try to point to the dangers of salt intake, the issue that is often overlooked is salt processing. Just like flour, rice and sugar, there is such a thing as processed salt. Salt that has been highly refined is a product of high-heat and heavy chemical procedures that remove beneficial minerals, and strip the salt of any enzyme activating powers. As with most foods, not all salts are created equal. Here is a list of some things to look for the next time you’re stocking up on salt.

Table salts: These salts are the most processed, and consequently the most dangerous. They contain anti-caking agents that often include toxic heavy metals, such as aluminum. To replace the natural iodine salts that are removed during processing, potassium iodide is added in amounts that can be toxic. To stabilize this volatile compound, dextrose is added, which turns the salt purple, meaning that it must be bleached in order to make the salt white again.

Pickling Salt: Used mainly for canning and fermenting pickles. This salt is made without iodine or any anti caking agents. The grains are very fine so that they dissolve easily, creating a clear brine. Other salts can be used for pickling, but the brine will have a cloudier appearance.

Kosher Salt: When applied to salt, the term “Kosher salt” does not derive from being made in accordance with guidelines outlined in the Torah. Nearly all salt, including table salt, could be considered kosher in that respect. Instead, the term refers to its use in making meats kosher by removing surface blood. Its large flakes make it especially effective for this purpose. For this reason, it can be somewhat drying when used in baking. Look for “additive-free” kosher salt to avoid dangerous anti-caking agents.

Celtic Sea Salt: Sun dried sea salt contains an abundance of trace minerals from marine life, providing an organic form of iodine. The best and purest unrefined sea salt comes from the natural salt marshes of Brittany, where it is farmed according to ancient method of sun-drying the sea water in large clay vats. There are many refined salts that still call themselves “sea salt,” so be sure that the label indicates the salt is derived from sun-dried, minimally processed methods, and does not contain ingredients that are difficult to pronounce.

Himalayan Pink Salt: Otherwise known as “Halite,” a rock salt that can be found in Pakistan, located somewhat near the Himalayas. Halite salts are not unique to this region, but are commercially referred to as “Himalayan,” even though none of this salt is actually sourced from the Himalayan Mountains. Other producers of this pink salt include Chile, Hawaii, Utah, Bolivia, Peru, Australia and Poland. This salt contains very high amounts of Sodium Chloride. It’s red or pinkish color results from iron oxide.

Using a high quality salt not only aids in better digestion of food, but results in richer, more complex flavor. You will be reminded of the rewards of choosing unprocessed salts every time you prepare meals and savor them.

References:

1. Fallon, Sally with Mary G Enig, Ph. D. Nourishing Traditions. Revised second edition. New Trends Publishing. Washington DC, 2001.

2. www.wikipedia.org

The secret to a healthy immune system is simple, and actually not too difficult; but all the same, it does take daily discipline. Let’s look at some myths and focus on the area that will keep you healthier.

An immune system is a system of biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease by identifying and killing pathogens and tumor cells. It detects a wide variety of agents, from viruses to parasitic worms, and needs to distinguish them from the organism’s own healthy cells and tissues in order to function properly. Detection is complicated, as pathogens can evolve rapidly, and adapt to avoid the immune system and allow the pathogens to success- fully infect their hosts.

The immune system, an amazing protectio­n mechanism, is inside your body. It is designed to defend you against millions of bacteria, microbes, viruses, toxins and parasites that would love to invade your body. To understand the power of the immune system, all that you have to do is look at what happens to anything once it dies. That sounds disgusting, but it does show you something very important about your immune system.

Does Being Cold Make You Sick?

Almost every mother has said, “Wear a jacket or you’ll catch a cold!” Is she right? So far, researchers who are studying this question think that normal exposure to moderate cold doesn’t increase your susceptibility to infection. Most health experts agree that the reason winter is “cold and flu season” is not that people are cold, but that they spend more time indoors, in closer contact with other people who can pass on their germs.

Adopt Healthy-living Strategies.

Your first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Following general good-health guidelines is the single best step you can take toward keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every part of your body, including your immune system, functions better when protected from environmental assaults, and is bolstered by healthy-living strategies such as these:

Don’t smoke

Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat

Exercise regularly

Maintain a healthy weight

Control your blood pressure

If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

Get adequate sleep

Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and cooking meats thoroughly

Get regular medical screening tests for people in your age group and risk category

Check Your Nervous System.

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, pupil size, sweating, immune system, mucus production, caliber of the airways, blood sugar levels, certain adrenal hormone levels, and many digestive functions. All of these are controlled ultimately by the center nervous system (CNS), which is made up of your brain and spinal cord and nerves. If any of the communication is blocked or decreased, due to a subluxations or pinched nerve, your system cannot work at its optimum level.

Things to Do If You Happen To Get Sick.

Don’t over-exert yourself

Keep your stress levels down

Drink lots of water

Try taking Juice Plus, doTerra essential oils, probiotics and other herbs

If your body is not responding within a timely manner, see your M.D. in order to rule out other problems, or the need of antibiotics.

References:

www.Science.howstuffworks.com

www.Lifehack.org

www.Health.harvard.edu

www.Mdwellnessmd.com

Natural Disinfectant Spray

Ingredients:

33 Herbs essential oil

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Sterilized Water

Mix 15 drops 33 Herbs and Grapefruit Seed Extract with every 6 oz of water.

Uses:

1. Wipe doorknobs and other things touched by public.
2. Wipe dirty piano keys to clean and disinfect.
3. Clean children’s hands when traveling.
4. Wipe steering wheel and gearshifts of your vehicle.
5. Spray on computer keyboards and mice.
6. Spray on your hands after shaking hands.
7. Spray on public restrooms and in airplanes to reduce airborne bacteria.
8. Use an air freshener for cooking odors or other unwanted smells.
9. Take to gym and spray all equipment that you use.
10. Take to supermarket and use to disinfect shopping cart handles.
11. Use in classrooms for desks, tables and other items handled by students.
12. Carry for protection in countries with cholera, malaria and dysentery.
13. Spray on shower stalls and bathroom walls to disinfect and remove mold.

Baby Wipes

Ingredients:

1 cup sterile water

Squirt Avocado or Coconut Oil (Base Oil)

Squirt organic baby shampoo

2 drops Tea Tree essential Oil

3 drops Lavender essential Oil

Mix ingredients in canning jar, keep closed when not in use.

Pour or spray over paper towels or wash cloth.

Carry in your diaper bag.

Submitted by Lana Nickerson of Vivasan USA.  To find where to purchase therapeutic grade essential oils stop in at  770 Smithridge Dr. Suite 350, Reno or  call Lana at 775.826.8482 or purchase on line at www.vivasanusa.com

For centuries, mothers in India believed that rice bran held certain healing powers that worked miracles on their ill children.

When a child or relative was sick, a mother would often rush to the local mill and collect freshly-milled rice bran from the discard pile. She would then immediately prepare a broth or gruel from the bran and feed it to the sick child, who would often recover.

The nutritional superiority of rice bran has long been known by the medical community.  However, within hours after milling, oxidative changes render the rice bran unfit for human consumption. An enzyme called lipase combines with the oil in the rice bran, turning the oil rancid. The result is that nutrients are lost, and the oil undergoes chemical changes that become toxic. Sadly, 40 million metric ton of rice bran is discarded annually worldwide; it is due to rapid development of rancidity.

Scientists and others have made repeated attempts over the past 50 years to deactivate the lipase, and thus stabilize the rice bran, but until very recently, a non-chemical working process eluded them. A proprietary extrusion process was developed to protect against rancidity, and to maintain and enhance rice bran’s nutritional value.

This non-chemical process deactivates the lipase and the result is stabilized rice bran, the most nutrient-dense, whole food source on the planet. ZEAL Stabilized Rice Bran (Z-Rice) is water-soluble, predigested, and easily available to the body. It contains over 120 antioxidants. In short, it is cell ready food! Super health is the result of two things: feeding the cells with bio-available nutrient-dense food sources and protecting the cells from free radicals.

Due to a large array of naturally occurring antioxidants, Z-Rice may help fight premature aging, heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and certain eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

No other whole food, supplement, or combination of supplements can compare. Z-Rice is just one of 42 Primary Nutrients found within ZEAL!

“Let Food Be Your Medicine and Medicine Be Your Food.”

- Hippocrates

Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an acquired taste; most folks are either repulsed by it, or relish its sweet, distinctive flavor. As it is commonly known in the form of candy, most are unaware that many licorice candies are not flavored by licorice at all, but anise. True licorice remains quite popular throughout southern Europe, used to flavor not only candies but ice cream as well. Apart from its confectionary use, licorice has a wide range of applications medicinally, cosmetically and even as a tobacco enhancer. In China, it is called the “great detoxifier,” and often referred to as “the grandfather of herbs.”

Licorice is a popular medicinal herb, having been so since the times of the ancient Assyrians. Its roots were valued by citizens of the Roman Empire, and it was commonly used in Chinese herbal formulas. It is most often used to soothe sore throats and coughs. Licorice soothes the chest and helps to break up phlegm. It is still found in many cough syrups and drops. It has been used to treat ulcers, relieve rheumatism and arthritis, and to help induce menstruation. It is sometimes taken in powder form, as a laxative.

The root contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that is 50 times sweeter than sucrose, which encourages the production of the hormone hydrocortisone. This could explain its anti-inflammatory actions and why it is sometimes used to re-stimulate the adrenal cortex after steroid therapy. Licorice has also been used in the treatment of dropsy, fever, menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, bronchitis and hypoglycemia. It is sometimes used to mask the tastes of other herbs that can be less palatable such as mullein, ginseng, and comfrey. It is used in mouthwashes and toothpastes as a sweetener. When applied topically, licorice root is emollient and soothing. It is also used in facial steams, and as a medicinal shampoo for dandruff.

One of the lesser known uses for licorice is its inclusion as a flavoring for tobacco products, especially chewing tobacco. Some products contain as much as 10 percent licorice, and as much as 90 percent of the licorice purchased in the US is used by the tobacco industry. Ironically, licorice is a helpful herb for those who want to quit smoking. Chewing on sticks of the root gives the user something to fiddle with, and the sweet flavor makes it pleasant to chew.

Licorice is not an herb that should be used by everyone, and should be used with caution. The cortisone-like components of the glycrrhizin increases the retention of salt and water in the body. In extreme cases, this can cause dangerous side effects such as abnormal heart action, and kidney failure triggered by potassium depletion. Licorice should be avoided by those with cardiac conditions, hypertension, kidney complaints, or obesity issues. Pregnant women should also avoid this herb, as they are already subject to edema.

Licorice is most easily cultivated from root cuttings, placed a foot apart in deeply tilled soil. Sandy soil, with plenty of compost, is ideal. The plants enjoy plenty of water and sun. The roots are not ready to harvest for at least four years. When harvesting, the nitrogen rich tops of the plant make a great addition to the compost pile. The roots should be dried in the shade for six months, in a very dry space to prevent molding. When the roots have cured, they should be stored in air-tight containers at room temperature. The remnants of the roots from a plant that was harvested should easily begin the next crop. Licorice is a plant that can become very persistent and intrusive, if not cut back regularly.

For those who do not have the contraindicated health conditions mentioned above, this oatmeal recipe below is a soothing treat for cold and flu season. It helps to relieve congestion in the sinuses and lungs, and supports the immune system, and is sweet and delicious too.

Licorice oats

1 ripe banana, mashed

1-2 small pinches powdered licorice root

2 cups thick rolled oats

4 cups water

Pinch of sea salt

Combine oats, salt and water in a sauce pan, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to low. Let oats sit covered for about 20 minutes, until they are nice and fluffy. Mash the banana and licorice powder together and blend into the cooled oats. Add a little raw honey, if extra sweetness is desired.

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Natural Defense Against Infections… The LEMON!

Written by Nancy Muñoz, PA, LMT |

Although acidic to the taste, the modest lemons promote health with a highly alkalinizing effect on the body. Lemons are therefore of great benefit during the cold and flu season, as well as throughout the year for optimal health.

In a state of 80% alkalinity and 20% acidity, or perfect blood chemistry, the body is at its best form for resisting invading viruses and bacteria. This state is determined by the food one eats. One highly acidic meal of potatoes, white bread, meat and pie, with a sweetened drink is enough to open one up to an onslaught of determined microbial attackers.

When a person becomes sick with an infection, they almost invariably reach for a lemon-flavored drink or a bit of lemon squeezed in comforting herbal tea. Honey and lemon are often mixed together for cough relief, both in liquid form and in cough drops. Lemons can work many household-cleaning miracles, but the very best miracle is the neutralizing alkaline action on acidic internal body systems.

It is believed that the ancestors of lemons and limes took root some 8,000 years ago in India or in fertile crescents between Tigris and Euphrates rivers in what is now Iraq. The miracle of their juiciness inside thick skin gave rise to many legends and stories. The Mesopotamians raised lemons for their beauty and aroma. Egyptians loved them for their aid in embalming. Jews brought them to Israel from their captivity in Babylon some 2,500 years ago. Romans used them as mothballs until Persian slaves taught them better. At various places and times, these citrus fruits have been identified as cures for fever and colic and as protection against poisons.

Lemon juice is a powerful antibacterial and it has been proved by experiments that the bacteria of malaria, cholera, diphtheria and typhoid are destroyed by lemon juice. The bark of a lemon tree is used as a fever reducer, and its seeds are used to expel worms from the intestine. Lemon is the most detoxifying fruit. The detoxifying properties arise from its high content of potassium. A squeeze of a lemon a day in the morning will imminently cleanse the body. The juice is highly diuretic and therefore gives relief in kidney and bladder disorders. The juice also encourages bile secretion and is valuable in treating jaundice. Lemon has been shown to be a blessing for mountaineers, as it is helpful at times of insufficient oxygen or difficulty breathing.

The lemon juice and the essential of lemons can be of great benefit to mind, body and soul. One of the most important properties of lemons is the ability to defend the body against infection. This is a valuable asset for both illness and external wounds, as lemons can stimulate the body’s white blood corpuscles, improving the body’s ability to defend itself from infection. The essential oil of the lemon is well known for the ability to energize and revitalize. Lemon juice is excellent for colds and sore throats. Its astringent and antiseptic qualities help soothe and its high vitamin C levels help boost the immune system, encouraging normal growth and tissue repair. Lemon also helps to strengthen gums and teeth and prevents and cures acute inflammation of gum margins and dental decay. Oily skin can be toned with lemon juice. A few drops of lemon juice and water are added to a whisked egg white and make an excellent face mask for spotty or greasy skin. For hard skin on elbows or feet, half a lemon rubbed on the affected area for about 10 minutes is helpful. This super fruit is also used to treat dandruff, and can add shine to the hair. The lemon essential oil, when added to an oil burner in a study room, can sharpen focus and induce a sharpening of intellect. According to the therapy test, lemon aroma helps to calm and it lightens and disperses confusion.

The American Association for Cancer Research studied that consumption of lemon peel might appear to have reduced the risk of developing skin cell cancer by 34%. The researchers speculate that a compound found in lemon peel called D-Limonene may protect the skin from cancer. Researchers did not find the same effect from consuming grapefruit or oranges, nor was there a relationship found between fruit juice and lower skin cancer rates. Most lemon peel used was consumed as a topping on food and drinks.

Written By Terry Lemerond |

Before the introduction of the synthetic drugs that are used today, iodine was one of the most beneficial and universal medicines used by physicians around the world. Iodine was effective for everything: to heal wounds and disease; destroy bacteria, viruses, and pathogens; and to prevent cancer. Once one of the most commonly used medicines in the world, iodine was “forgotten” in favor of new pharmaceutical drugs.

Now we are seeing the consequences of forgetting this essential mineral – skyrocketing rates of cancer, an epidemic of thyroid dysfunction, and great difficulties with detoxification. Fortunately, not everyone has forgotten what this amazing mineral can do, and integrative medical practitioners are ushering in an era where iodine is making a comeback. It is a highly effective treatment with virtually no side effects – unlike modern drugs. I absolutely believe there are cases and times in which drugs are extremely important, and in fact, life saving. However, these drugs also come with long lists of side effects that often require other drugs to treat the problems they created in the first place! Today, drugs are used for every condition – even vitamin and mineral deficiencies. We are not deficient in drugs. We are deficient in vitamins and minerals, a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle.

How You Have Been Robbed of Your Daily Iodine

In the 1920s, goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) was very common, especially in the Great Lakes region. To combat this problem, iodine was added to salt. While this did help reduce the incidence of goiter and thyroid problems, today many people are reducing the amount of iodized salt in their diets. Additionally, chlorine, fluoride and bromide, which lower iodine levels in the body by blocking iodine receptors, are increasingly consumed in foods or ingested through environmental exposure. For example, chlorine is now used to purify water in place of iodine. Fluoride is found in toothpaste and water. Bromines replaced iodides in commercial baked goods in the 1980s. Not only are these elements toxic for the thyroid, they are dangerous for the rest of your body as well. Bromide, for example, can cause depression, headaches, hallucinations or even schizophrenia. Fluoride is also a toxic agent. It blocks the ability of the thyroid gland to concentrate iodine, and there are no studies showing that long-term fluoride intake has any beneficial effects. Dr. David Brownstein, an expert on iodine supplementation, writes that promoting fluoridated water as a way to prevent dental cavities is a “seriously flawed idea.” He found that his patients with breast cancer had higher than normal levels of fluoride in their bodies, while also being iodine deficient. All of these factors combine to put your body greatly at need for much more iodine than itis getting.

We Need More Iodine

There is a growing consensus among scientists in America that we would have better thyroid function, a lower incidence of cancer and fibrocystic disease of the breast, and overall better health if we would consume more iodine. The established recommended minimum daily requirement for iodine is 150 mcg (micrograms).

People in the U.S. consume an average 240 mcg of iodine per day, which is slightly above the amount needed to prevent a deficiency syndrome (such as goiter). However, that is not the amount needed for beneficial health effects. People in coastal Japan consume up to 50 mg of iodine (50,000 mcg), which is 50 times more than the average American! Life expectancy in Japan is 82.12 years, the highest of all industrialized countries, while the United States is 78.11 years. The infant mortality rate in Japan is one of the lowest in the world, 2.79 deaths under age one per 1,000 live births, half the infant mortality rate in the United States. Finally, the number of deaths from breast cancer is almost three times higher in the U.S. than in Japan.

Iodine, the Thyroid, andBreast Diseases

Observational studies have noted that there is a connection between thyroid abnormalities and breast cancer. Today, one in seven American women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. Thirty years ago, when iodine consumption was much higher than it is now, one in 20 women developed breast cancer. Women in Japan, consuming high amounts of dietary iodine, have much lower rates of breast cancer and thyroid problems. When these women emigrate from Japan to the Unites States and consume a Western diet (containing a fraction of the iodine consumed in Japan), their rates of breast cancer and thyroid diseases increase dramatically.

Iodine’s anti-cancer function may well prove to be iodine’s most important benefit. Exactly how it exerts these effects is still not fully understood. Laboratory tests using estrogen sensitive breast cancer cells exposed to iodine have shown that iodine makes them less likely to respond to the negative aspects of estrogen, and therefore, less likely to grow and spread.

Fibrocystic breast disease is marked by changes in breast tissue, and discomfort, swelling, and breast tenderness. It is a very common concern for women. Supplemental iodine has been found to improve symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease. In fact, in one study, 98% of women receiving iodine treatment were pain-free by the study’s end, and 72% had improvements in breast tissue. (Ghent WR, et al. Iodine replacement in fibrocystic disease of the breast. Can J Surg 1993;36:453-460.)

Supplemental Iodine Forms and Dosage

Different tissues in the body prefer iodine in different forms. Thyroid tissue best absorbs iodine as potassium iodide. Breast tissue, in contrast, takes up iodine when it is in the form of molecular iodine. Therefore, for optimal total body support, iodine supplements should contain more than one type of iodine.

According to Dr. David Brownstein, M.D., author and iodine expert who has treated thousands of patients in his clinic, states, “As I started to use larger amounts of iodine (12.5-50 mg/day) to achieve whole body sufficiency, I began to see positive results in my patients. Goiters and nodules of the thyroid shrank, cysts on the ovaries became smaller and began to disappear, patients reported increased energy, and metabolism was increased as evidenced by my patients having new success in losing weight. Libido improved in both men and women. People suffering from brain fog reported a clearing of the fogginess. Patients reported having vivid dreams and sleeping better. Most importantly, those with chronic illnesses that were having a difficult time improving began to notice many of their symptoms resolving.”

The following conditions are routinely treated with iodine by Dr. Brownstein with effective results, few minor side effects and no toxicity: breast disease, diabetes, fatigue, infections, ovarian cysts, migraine headaches, fibrocystic with high levels of iodine are acne, metallic taste in the mouth, sneezing and increased saliva. These reactions are extremely rare, occurring in less than 5% of his patients.

If we all want optimal health, we must not allow iodine to be the forgotten medicinal mineral. It must be remembered and cherished for its amazing health and protective benefits. Remember iodine the next time you are considering what to include in your family’s wellness plan!

References:

1.  www.Iodine4Health.com

2.  www.terrytalksnutrition.com

3.  Ghent WR, et al. Iodine replacement in fibrocystic disease of the breat Can J Sur 1993;36:453-460

For more info, contact Vitamin Connection at (775) 825-3993

Vitamin C, well known for boosting the immune system and preventing colds, is now getting the attention of discerning health consumers because of its benefits for brain health. This is drawing people to find premier food sources of vitamin C so that we can age gracefully, elevate our mood and improve concentration for better job performance.

Vitamin C protects your nervous system. The nervous system includes your brain, eyes and all the nerves running throughout your body that tell your heart when to contract, your lungs when to breathe, and your muscles when to flex–it’s the electronic system of your body.

If you do not have a fully functional nervous system, you may experience symptoms like depression. You may lose the ability to focus sharply. You may experience a foggy brain, learn slowly, feel sluggish or forget things easily. Eventually a person with a compromised nervous system may end up with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is associated with the buildup of plaque on brain nerves and recent research shows that this plaque is reversible through vitamin C nutrition and brain exercise. Yes, using your brain and playing concentration or number games like Sudoku can help you age well, and when accompanied with good nutritional support, high in vitamin C, you gain even more clarity and long term mindfulness.

Mike Adams, founder of www.naturalnews.com, states that “If you’re interested in anti-aging, or if you’re getting up in years and you want to make sure you have optimal brain performance for the rest of your life, the Camu berry is one of the most important nutritional supplements you can consume. Think of it as an insurance policy against neurodegenerative diseases.”

There’s not food on the planet with a higher concentration of vitamin C than the Camu berry. Oranges are generally known for their high vitamin C content. However, oranges often only have around 1,000 ppm of vitamin C. Sometimes they can have as high as 3,000 or 4,000 but that’s unusual, especially given the way they are commercially grown today. The Camu berry can have concentrations as high as 50,000 ppm, or about 2 g of vitamin C per 100 g of fruit.  That means that the Camu berry provides 50 times more vitamin C than an orange (on an ounce-for-ounce basis.)*

A major cause of depression is a suppressed or poorly functioning nervous system and Dr. Gary Null ranks the Amazonian fruit known as Camu as the number two source for anti-depressant properties because of its rich array of chemical compounds that protect and nourish the nervous system.

According to Dr. James Duke, botanist and herbal authority, the Camu berry provides nutritional support for the brain to optimize its own mood-balancing chemistry. Camu is one of his favorite Rainforest botanicals.

The Camu-Camu berry, also known as the “feel good fruit” is available in various sources from power to juice and concentrates. When purchasing, check your source and make sure there are no additives or fillers.

More Research and Facts on Vitamin C and a Healthy Brain:

• A high vitamin C intake may protect against both cognitive impairment and cerebrovascular disease.

• Long-term, current users of vitamin E with vitamin C had significantly better mean performance, as judged by a global score that combined individual test scores, than did women who had never used vitamin E or C.

• These results suggest that vitamin E and C supplements may protect against vascular dementia and may improve cognitive function in late life.

References:

1. Mike Adams report “Camu Camu: The Natural Vitamin C Powerhouse For Peak Mental Function and Nervous System Protection.

2. http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/312/7031/608

Cognitive impairment and mortality in a cohort of elderly people Catharine R Gale, research student,a Christopher N Martyn, clinical scientist,a Cyrus Cooper, clinical scientist a. aMRC Environmental Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD. Correspondence to: Dr Martyn.

3. High-dose antioxidant supplements and cognitive function in community-dwelling elderly women.

Grodstein F, Chen J, Willett WC. Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.

4. fran.grodstein@channing.harvard.edu

5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12663300?dopt=Abstract

6. http://www.neurology.org/cgi/content/abstract/54/6/1265

The multiple health benefits to consuming Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) found in fish oil are becoming well known amongst health advocates and lay people alike. Fish oil supplements are becoming as popular as multivitamins to consumers looking to take care of their good health. The EFAs such as Omega 3, 5, 6 and 9, which occur naturally in fish such as wild salmon, serve to nourish brain, heart and kidney tissues. They have also benefit the immune and digestive systems, in addition to supporting a healthy metabolism and a positive mood.

There is, however, a difference in fish oils. Some vitamin manufacturers use whole fish oils, which come straight from the fish; generally from wild-caught fish. Other manufacturers use “purified” fish oils, which go through a purification process that involves the use of complex, high heat processes that tend to break down the valuable compounds. The oils become fractionated; isolated and important nutrients are lost. While some manufacturers will then attempt to add back specific nutrients into their product, the benefits of the whole have been lost forever.

The difference in fish oils is clear. The dull, yellow color and watery texture of conventional fish oil capsules is symbolic of “purified” products. The heavy distillation fractionates isolates and destroys the many valuable compounds that give fish oil its vibrant color and natural viscosity.

Whole fish oils should be extraordinary in color and transparency. The brilliant hue comes from the Astaxanthin, which is a powerful antioxidant found naturally and abundantly in wild salmon. Again, the chemical processing in “purified” fish oils can destroy this vital nutrient.

Let us not forget about one of the most important factors of producing high quality fish oil. Sustainability! Some vitamin manufacturers use 100% wild Alaskan salmon oil from fisheries recognized for ocean stewardship and sustainability. Alaska maintains one of the worlds most highly protected and managed natural fisheries and has outlawed salmon fish farming. By using only wild, sustainably caught Alaskan salmon–which happen to be among the cleanest and most pure fish stocks in the world–chemical processing to deliver a pure product is simply not necessary.

References:

1. http://www.newchapter.com/downloads/print/product/fish-oil

For more info, contact Vitamin Connection at (775) 825-3993.

Did you know that your body can assimilate vitamins and minerals more efficiently when in whole food form?  It makes sense!  Our bodies were designed to eat the foods that nature provides.  In an ideal world those foods are rich in minerals, vitamins, amino acids, anti-oxidants and life force.  Imagine the density of nutrition found in wild foods grown in virgin soil, unadulterated by chemicals and over cultivation.  Today’s diet contain a fraction of the nutrition that our grandparents received because of depleted soils, chemical agriculture, long storage and transit times and over processing.  Therefore our bodies are craving for easy to absorb bio-available nourishment in a whole plant form.

Super foods fulfill our body’s longing.  Camu-Camu is one such food gaining attention by scientist, doctors and discerning health consumers. Camu-Camu (myrcia dubia) often called bayberry fruit grows on a small tree that thrives in the lush, enriched soil of the Amazon Rainforest flood plains.

Because of Camu’s anti-viral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, qualities, its uses are numerous but diverse.  Most of these benefits are linked to its high vitamin C content plus the high content of bioflavonoids.  When used alone vitamin C is not effective, it must be accompanied by bioflavonoids.  For example scurvy cannot be cured by synthetic vitamin C.  Only natural sources of vitamin C, which also contain natural bioflavonoids, are effective.

Camu-Camu is a superior choice over synthetic vitamin C to support and strengthen the immune system, liver, lungs, lymphatic and urinary systems. Plant based vitamin C such as Camu-Camu has the additional advantages of being non-irratating to sensitive stomachs and because it is a complete source, one or two grams a day is as effective as five to six grams of synthetic vitamin C.

Camu, as a natural plant source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) contains thirty times more vitamin C than an orange and also provided a significant amount of B vitamins, beta-carotene, minerals and amino acids including significant amounts of iron, niacin (vitamin B3), riboflavin (vitamin B2), thiamin (vitamin B1), potassium and essential amino acids leucine and serine.  As the highest recorded source of vitamin C on the planet, no other form can give your body so much compacted energy and support.

There are a myriad of clinical studies indicating the accepted benefits of supplementation with Camu-Camu.  Choose only Camu-Camu products that are pure unadulterated and non-irradiated.  You do not want a Camu product that is mixed with synthetic vitamin C or ascorbic acid and/or diluted with yucca or maltidextrin.

The Camu fruit, also known as the “feel good fruit” offers a broad range of health promoting properties such as:

• supports immune function

• promotes healthy skin, hair, gums and nails

• assists in managing adrenal gland fatigue

• enhances memory functions and positive emotions

• helpful in reduction of stress, anxiety, and pain

• aids in anti-aging processes

• suppresses appetite for natural weight control

Sustainable growing and harvesting of this wild Rainforest fruit is contributing to the sustainable development of the Amazon River basin helping the natives maintain their traditional ways of life and keeping the rainforest alive and thriving for future generations.  A leading responsible advocate for Camu-Camu is the Amazon Herb Company which offers the fruit in liquid, powder and skin care products.  For more information contact Amazon Herb Shop at 1-800-239-5859

References:

Christian Drapeau, Camu-Camu

Dr. James Duke, Ethnobotaical database: www.ars-grin.gov/duke

Gary Null, Encyclopedia of Natural Healing