Healthy Aging Review

How To Get A Better Body With Food

Alan Muir — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:56:56 +0000

Did you know eating makes your body better? Huh? Of course, eating is essential to our existence, but eating vitamin-rich foods can support energy, metabolism, and weight, as well as promote look and feel-good benefits. Nutrient-dense foods are less commonly consumed, as high calorie, refined foods are more common. Unfortunately, these foods are void of vitamins and negatively affect your health.

Vitamins are necessary for several body functions. A healthy diet should have a variety of foods to get essential nutrients. While a multi-vitamin may help deliver quality nutrients, it is also imperative you receive proper nutrition through food. Phytonutrients, such as different color pigments (carotenoids) found in fruits and vegetables, are important promoters of health. It is best to choose a variety of different colors found in fruits and vegetables to ensure proper nutrition.

Be sure to consume enough of the following vitamins in your diet:

Vitamin A – Good sources of vitamin A include green leafy vegetables and orange fruit/vegetables – oranges, carrots, sweet potatoes, peaches, cantaloupe, spinach, kale, and red chard. Vitamin A is key to development, as well as production of white blood cells, tissue and wound healing.

Vitamin B6 – Found in a variety of foods, vitamin B6 benefits nervous system function, as well as hormone and red blood cell production. It is found in meat, poultry, fish, bananas, and cooked spinach.

Vitamin B12 – Foods that contain vitamin B12 can help red blood cell production and nervous system function to increase oxygen flow through the body and raise energy levels. Animal products, including chicken, beef, fish, milk, and eggs are all good sources of vitamin B12.

Vitamin C – Citrus fruits, strawberries, papaya, parsley, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and mustard greens are all good sources of vitamin C. As a water-soluble antioxidant, vitamin C is essential to healthy immune function, muscles, collagen, and wound healing.

Vitamin D – As a key player in healthy nerve and immune function, as well as the absorption of calcium for strong bones and teeth, vitamin D is important to prostate, breast, ovarian, cardiovascular, and colorectal health. Vitamin D can mostly be obtained by sunlight or through supplements, but can also be found in fish and fortified foods, such as yogurt and orange juice.

Vitamin E – Found in sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, red chard, asparagus, and bell peppers, vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can help cardiovascular, skin, and body tissue health.

To get more of these mentioned necessary vitamins, please look at these featured NUTRAscriptives products:

What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?

Dana Burnett — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:57:09 +0000

What makes soap foamy and shampoo sudsy? Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate are commonly found in soap, toothpaste, detergent, and shampoo to give you that extra clean feeling. Unfortunately, these foaming agents, also known as surfactants, are considered a skin irritant and possibly have a negative impact on your health.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) has protein-denaturing properties that may have a degenerative effect on cell membranes. For this reason, it is often used as a skin irritant in clinical studies. A study in Experimental Dermatology found that after exposing healthy skin to 1% sodium lauryl sulfate lipid-metabolizing enzymes and the inflammatory response in the skin were altered.

The most common products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate include:

Shampoo
Toothpaste
Body Wash
Hand Soap
Laundry detergent/dish soap
Mouthwash
Face Cleanser
Moisturizers
Stain Remover
Carpet Cleaner

Why is sodium lauryl sulfate in so many products?

It is a cheap solution to dissolve the oils on your skin and cause a drying effect. This effect can irritate the skin. Several reports have been issued to the Food and Drug Administration concerning the irritation of different products containing SLS. Shampoos with SLS have been reported to cause stinging eyes, burning scalp, tangled, split and fuzzy hair. A study found that sodium lauryl sulfate in toothpaste irritated the oral cavity. It is also believed that as these foaming agents absorb into the body they mimic estrogen activity to cause health concerns, including infertility.

Several household products without sulfates are now available. Simply read the ingredients to see what foaming agents are being used. Sulfate-free bath products are also on the rise. These are great alternatives to avoid the harsh chemicals found in the majority of hair and skincare products.

For a Sodium lauryl sulfate free and sodium laureth sulfate free facial cleanser, try this NUTRAscriptives product and the rest of our skin care line!

Exfoliating Facial Cleanser

Renewal Moisturizer

Ventox Serum

References

Fakhry-Smith S, Din C, Nathoo SA, Gaffar A. Clearance of sodium lauryl sulphate from the oral cavity. J Clin Periodontol. 1997 May;24(5):313-317.

Jungersted JM, Hogh JK, Hellegren LI, Jemec GB, Agner T. Effects of topical corticosteroid and tacrolimus on ceramides and irritancy to sodium lauryl sulphate in healthy skin. Acta Derm Venereol. 2011 May;91(3):290-294.

Torma H, Berne B. Sodium lauryl sulphate alters the mRNA expression of lipid-metabolizing enzymes and PPAR signalling in normal human skin in vivo. Exp Dermatol. 2009 Dec;18(12):1010-1015.

Torma H, Geijer S, Gester T, Alpholm K, et al. Variations in the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators, markers of differentiation and lipid-metabolizing enzymes caused by sodium lauryl sulphate in cultured human keratinocytes. Toxicol In Vitro. 2006 Jun;20(4):472-479.

Which Prescription Drugs Lower Libido?

Jacque Butler — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:34:06 +0000

How medicated is our country? In 2004, it was estimated that the average American took twelve prescription drugs per year. Prescription drug sales were $234 billion in 2008 – six times higher than $40 billion spent in 1990. This predominant mix of medications can cause a variety of adverse effects on the body, including a low libido. In fact, low sex drive is an adverse effect for six out of the top ten selling drugs.

What are the top ten most prescribed drugs?

Hydrocodone (pain reliever)
Zocor (cholesterol)
Lisinopril (hypertension)
Synthroid (thyroid function)
Norvasc (hypertension)
Priolosec (acid reflux)
Azithromycin (antibiotic)
Amoxicillin (antibiotic)
Glucophage (blood sugar)
Hydrochlorothiazine (hypertension)

From this list, Hydrocone, Zocor, Lisinopril, Norvasc, Prilosec, and Hydrochlorothiazine can all decrease libido.

Cholesterol is essential to healthy hormone levels. Unfortunately, cholesterol-lowering medications can lower hormone production, especially testosterone, to cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. Pain relievers and blood pressure medications have also been shown to cause erectile dysfunction by lowering testosterone levels.

Anti-depressants (or SSRIs) raise serotonin levels to alleviate anxiety and depression. While a balance of serotonin is involved in regulating sexual health, serotonin levels that are too high can decrease libido.

To promote sexual health, specific nutrients can support libido, including Ginkgo Biloba, Maca Root, Ginseng, Muira Puama and Tribulus Terrestris.

To help support your libido, please try these featured NUTRAscriptives products!

NUTRA Libido

Ginkgo Biloba

Selenium

References

Catlin A, et al. National Health Spending In 2006: A Year Of Change For Prescription Drugs. Health Affairs. 2008;27(1).

Do C, Huyghe E, Lapeyre-Mestre M, Montastruc JL, Bagheri H. Statins and erectile dysfunction: results of a case/non-case study using the French Pharmacovigilance System Database. Drug Saf. 2009;32(7):591-597.

Kuhn M, Campillos M, Letunic I, Jensen LJ, Bork P. A side effect resource to capture phenotypic effects of drugs. Mol Syst Biol. 2010;6:343.

Should Sugar Intake Be Regulated?

Alan Muir — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:16:05 +0000

While a spoonful of sugar may help the medicine go down, a high intake can make health risks go up. High cholesterol, blood pressure, liver dysfunction, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes can all be related to high sugar intake. Despite this, a decent portion can be found in most store-bought products, even “not so sweet” salsa or salad dressing.

Most Americans consume an average of more than 600 calories of sugar each day, approximately 40 teaspoons. This can be a large contributing factor to the fact that more than two-thirds of the population in the United States is overweight, while more than half is obese. The World Health Organization has found that people with obesity now outnumber those that are malnourished.

According to an article in the journal Nature, sugar is toxic to humans and should be strictly regulated – similar to alcohol regulations. Researchers from this study suggest regulations, including a tax on food or drinks that have sugar or similar sweeteners. The toxic effect on the body is seen with how fructose is metabolized specifically by the liver. This continual metabolism can cause fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity.

Strict regulations on sugar may not be enough to lessen sugar intake. A study publish in Contemporary Economic Policy suggests that a tax on sweetener sold to food manufacturers would be a better means to reduce the amount of sugar added to food products.

Of course, the issue of obesity is not only related to sugar intake. Several factors contribute to expanding waistlines and decreasing health, including the consumption of highly processed foods, saturated fat, and a lack of exercise.

To help with your cholesterol, try these recommended NUTRAscriptives products:

Sytrinol

NUTRA Lean

References

Lustig RH, Schmidt LA, Brindis CD. Public health: The toxic truth about sugar. Nature. 2012 Feb;482:27-29.

Miao Z, Beghin JC, Jensen HH. Taxing sweets: Sweetener input tax or final consumption tax. Contemporary Economic Policy. 2011 Sep 23.

Can Your Looks Predict Health Risks?

Jacque Butler — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:06:45 +0000

Did you know your appearance can determine underlying health problems? Wrinkles, dry skin, brittle nails, or discolored skin pigment can seem daunting. Yet, beyond treating these conditions on the outside, they can signify deeper health conditions that should also be addressed.

Brittle Nails: Discolored, deformed, or pitted nails can show up with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Reiter’s syndrome (form of arthritis), or alopecia (hair loss).

Poor Dental Health: Unhealthy teeth and gums have been related to heart and bone conditions. Researchers have found healthy dental hygiene can lower cardiovascular risks. A study in the British Medical Journal found that people who brush less frequently had a 70% higher risk of heart disease. Additionally, tooth loss can signify osteoporosis.

Skin Discoloration: Dark patches of skin can develop in people who are insulin resistant, obese, or have diabetes. The condition is known as acanthosis nigricans, in which patches of skin are thicker and darker.

Moles: Skin moles can be harmless beauty marks, but it is important to note the ones that appear different. How do you know which moles could indicate skin cancer? ABCD – If a mole is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, varies in color, or is larger than six millimeters in diameter, you should consult with a dermatologist.

Wrinkles: They can indicate a risk of osteoporosis, as research has found a significant association between bone health and wrinkles. As wrinkles become more apparent, the risks of low bone density increase.

To help your appearance look it’s best, try these recommended NUTRAscriptives products:

Rejuvenating Facial Cream

Renewal Moisturizer

Ventox

NUTRA Osteo

References

Brown S. Osteoporosis? Just check the facial wrinkles. Menopause Int. 2011 Sep;17(3):76-77.

De Oliveira C, Watt R, Hamer M. Toothbrushing, inflammation, and risk of cardiovascular disease: results from Scottish Health Survey. British Med Journal. 2010 May;340:c2451.

Levy L, Zeichner JA. Dermatologic manifestation of diabetes. J Diabetes. 2011 Aug 16.

Rao S, Banerjee S, Ghosh SK, Gangopadhyay DN, et al. Study of nail changes and nail disorders in the elderly. Indian J Dermatol. 2011 Sep;56(5):603-606.

Yoneda P, Biancollin SE, Gomes MS, Miot HA. Association between skin thickness and bone density in adult women. An Bras Dermatol. 2011 Sep;86(5):878-884.

Whey vs. Casein Protein: Which is best?

Alan Muir — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:59:12 +0000

With so many protein powders that claim to restore and increase muscle mass, is there a form of protein that is most beneficial? When it comes to whey and casein, there are different beliefs on which form is best. Truly, whey and casein are both restorative proteins that come from cow’s milk, but they do have different effects on the body. Casein is a slow-digesting protein, while whey is a fast-digesting protein.

Here is a further comparison of the two proteins:

Casein Protein

Casein is the predominant protein found in cow’s milk and cheese. This form of protein provides a slow, steady release of amino acids to the bloodstream that lasts for several hours. This is helpful for providing nitrogen retention and long-term utilization in the body. Slow protein digestion is not beneficial before or after you workout, because your body needs amino acids quickly.

Whey Protein

In contrast, whey protein is rapidly absorbed in the bloodstream and is demonstrated to have a stronger anabolic impact on protein synthesis in the muscle. Whey protein increases plasma levels of phenylalanine, leucine, and essential amino acids more readily than casein. The high leucine content contributes to its rate of digestion. Whey protein has also been shown to support healthy immune function and boost glutathione levels. It is best to consume before or after a workout to quickly supply your muscles with amino acids.

Should you choose casein or whey protein?

Both forms of protein can benefit the body, as they contain all of the amino acids that are required to increase muscle mass. Whey protein may be the best form to consume after a workout, as it works quickly to repair and build muscle tissue. Casein is best for meal replacement, or should be taken when your body doesn’t rapidly need protein – like before bedtime. In general, protein consumption stimulates thermogenesis more than carbohydrates or fat to boost your metabolism.

Check out these body-building supplements brought to you by NUTRAscriptives:

References

Acheson KJ, Blondel-Lubrano A, Oguey-Araymon S, Beaumont M, et al. Protein choices targeting thermogenesis and metabolism. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Mar;93(3):525-534.

Boirie Y, Dangin M, Gachon P, Vasson MP, et al. Slow and fast dietary proteins differently modulate postprandial protein accretion. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1997, 94(26):14930-14935.

Pennings B, Boirie Y, Senden JM, Gijsen AP, et al. Whey protein stimulates postprandial muscle protein accretion more effectively than do casein and casein hydrolysate in older men. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 May;93(5):997-1005.

Rusu D, Drouin R, Pouliot Y, Gauthier S, Pubelle PE. A bovine whey protein extract can enhance innate immunity by priming normal human blood neutrophils. J Nutr. 2009 Feb;139(2):386-393.

Xu R, Liu N, Xu X, Kong B. Antioxidative effects of whey protein on peroxide-induced cytotoxicity. J Dairy Sci. 2011 Aug;94(8):3739-3746.

4 Nutrients For Healthy Skin

Dana Burnett — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:18:14 +0000

You may wash, rinse, exfoliate, slather and repeat, but keeping your skin healthy does go more than skin deep. One of the primary ways to sustain radiant, healthy skin is through a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and good fats.

Here are four skin healthy nutrients that should be included in a balanced diet:

Lycopene – As an antioxidant, lycopene protects the skin from internal damage. Tomatoes, guava, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and persimmons are high in lycopene.

Vitamin A – Choose foods that are rich in vitamin A to strengthen resilience and skin cell growth– carrots, peaches, papaya, sweet potatoes, and green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C can maintain collagen synthesis and promote a clear, fresh complexion. Citrus (lime, oranges, grapefruit), bell pepper, dark green leafy vegetables, guava, spinach, strawberries, and broccoli are rich in vitamin C.

Vitamin E – Whole grains, cereals, almonds, and walnuts are rich in vitamin E, which helps the skin stay soft and smooth.

Along with consuming more vitamin-rich foods, it is also imperative to drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated, flush out toxins, and sustain skin elasticity. Avoid a high intake of coffee or tea, as these drinks lead to greater skin dehydration and leave the skin looking dry and dull. Herbal or green teas are excellent alternatives to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin.

For more radiant, flawless, and beautiful-looking skin, check out these recommended NUTRAscriptives products:

Exfoliating Facial Cleanser

Rejuvenating Facial Cream

Renewal Moisturizer

Ventox

Do trans fatty acids harm your brain?

Alan Muir — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:40:53 +0000

Partially hydrogenated oils, trans fats…you have probably heard the reports that these highly-refined oils lead to weight gain and chronic disease. These oils can be found in a wide-variety of products, such as fried foods, margarines, snack foods, and commercially baked goods.

First developed in the 19^th century, partially hydrogenated oils are less expensive than animal fats and can withstand being heated repeatedly without breaking down. The main use for partially hydrogenated oils is to prolong the shelf life of processed foods.

A study from Oregon Health & Science University found that individuals who consumed a diet high in trans fatty acids scored lower on thinking and memory tests. In contrast, people who had a high intake of vitamins C, D, E, and omega-3 fatty acids had improved cognitive function. The study recruited 104 subjects (average – 87 years old) and determined their level of nutrients in the blood. They also measured their brain volume with MRI scans to find that those with higher nutrient levels had a larger brain capacity. Individuals with a high consumption of trans fatty acids were more susceptible to Alzheimer’s.

Several European countries have banned hydrogenated oils from being used in food, as studies find processed foods can lead to the progression of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or cancer.

How can you lessen your intake of trans fatty acids?

Choose liquid vegetable oils
Avoid commercially prepared baked goods (cookies, pies, donuts, etc.), snack or processed foods.
Avoid fried foods and desserts in restaurants
Use butter or coconut oil

Try these NUTRAscriptives Supplements to help improve your cognitive function:

NUTRA Marine Fish Oil

Vitamin C

Vitamin D3 5000IU (Also available in 1,000 IU)

Vitamin E

References

Ascherio A, Hennekens CH, Buring JE, Master C, et al. Trans-fatty acids intake and risk of myocardial infarction. Circulation. 1994; 89:94-101.

Bowman GL, Silbert LC, Howieson D, Dodge HH, et al. Nutrient biomarker patterns, cognitive function, and MRI measures of brain aging. Neurology. 2011 Dec 28.

Katan MB, Zock PL, Mensink RP. Trans fatty acids and their effects on lipoproteins in humans. Ann Rev Nutr. 1995; 15:473-493.

Mozaffarian D, Katan MB, Ascherio A, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC. Trans fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. N Engl J Med. 2006 Apr; 354(15):1601-1613.

Mozaffarian D, Pischon T, Hankinson SE, et al. Dietary intake of trans fatty acids and systemic inflammation in women. Am J of Clin Nutr. 2004; 79:606-612.

Simopoulos AP. Essential fatty acids in health and chronic disease. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999 Sep; 70(3):560S-596S.

Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Manson JE, et al. Intake of trans fatty acids and risk of coronary heart disease among women. Lancet. 1993; 341:581-585.

How to determine hypothyroidism – Is TSH serum testing best?

Dana Burnett — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:04:10 +0000

For many years, physicians have determined the health of thyroid function based on TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) serum test results. TSH testing has been considered the gold standard for diagnosing hypothyroidism, but researchers are questioning its accuracy. TSH is a pituitary hormone that has the primary function of stimulating thyroid hormone production. A high TSH level often means a patient has hypothyroidism, or a low functioning thyroid. This is indicated by a TSH level that is consistently around the upper limit of normal (4.0 to 5.0 ng/dL).

A study recently published in Clinics of Geriatric Medicine describes the difference between serum and tissue thyroid hormone levels; especially related to chronic and acute stress. The article outlines that physiological stress caused by aging or illness can show normal TSH levels, but that a patient may still have hypothyroid symptoms.

Measuring the peripheral tissue with T3 serum testing may be a better indication of thyroid health. Patients with hypothyroid symptoms may have normal TSH and T4 levels, but still have hypothyroid symptoms. Instead of prescribing a T4 preparation, a T3 thyroid therapy may have greater significance on improving fatigue, depression, weight gain, and cardiovascular conditions.

Check out these NUTRAscriptives supplements for hypothyroidism support:

Iodine-Iodide Complex

Vitamin B Complex

Vitamin C

NUTRA Daily Multiple

References

Docter R, Krenning EP, de Jong M, et al. The sick euthyroid syndrome: changes in thyroid hormone serum parameters and hormone metabolism. Clin Endocrinol. 1993;39:499–518.

Iervasi G, Pinitore A, Landi P, et al. Low-T3 syndrome a strong prognostic predictor of death in patients with heart disease. Circulation. 2003;107:708–713.

Peeters RP, Wouters PJ, Kaptein E, et al. Reduced activation and increased inactivation of thyroid hormone in tissues of critically ill patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003; 88:3202–3211.

Schwartz E, Morelli V, Holtorf K. Hormone replacement therapy in the geriatric patient: current state of the evidence and questions for the future–estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormone augmentation in geriatric clinical practice: part 2. Clin Geriatr Med. 2011 Nov;27(4):561-575.

Smidt-Ott UM, Ascheim DD. Thyroid hormone and heart failure. Curr Heart Fail Rep.
2006;3:114–119.

What Nutrients Should You Take Before Surgery?

Alan Muir — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:36:10 +0000

Can taking certain nutrients speed healing? It takes a lot of energy for the body to heal from surgery, as the body repairs tissue on a cellular level. The majority of the healing occurs in the first few weeks after surgery, but can extend for years to come depending on the injury.

The healing process includes the inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases. The inflammatory phase (up to 5 days) involves the forming of localized blood clots to stop the bleeding, while macrophages and neutrophils are activated to fight infection around the injury. During the proliferative phase (2 days to 3 weeks), the body starts to build tissue and fibroblasts (collagen-forming cells) to improve skin healing. The remodeling phase (3 weeks and beyond) is when stronger collagen forms to rebuild the structure.

Specific vitamins and minerals can be taken to support these healing phases and improve surgery outcomes, but there are also certain nutrients that should not be taken. Both are outlined below.

Nutrients that can improve healing from surgery:

Calcium & Magnesium – Important minerals for bone health and biochemical reactions.

L-Arginine & L-Glutamine – Two amino acids that help repair tissue and support the immune response.

Vitamin A – To strengthen collagen, support immunity and sustain bone development.

Vitamin C – As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is essential to immunity and a necessary component of collagen.

Vitamin D – Improves bone development and the immune response.

Vitamin K – Essential to bone health and healthy blood clotting.

Zinc – Helps to regenerate and repair tissue.

Nutrients to avoid prior to surgery:

Certain nutrients shouldn’t be taken up to two weeks before surgery, because they increase bleeding that can cause serious complications, including Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, Vitamin E (Avoid consuming vitamin E supplements, but topical vitamin E is great for healing scars).

NUTRASCRIPTIVES RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

NUTRA Osteo (Calcium)

L-Arginine

L-Glutamine

Vitamin C

Vitamin D3 5,000 IU (Also Available in 1,000 IU)

References

Alcantara-Martos, T, Delgado-Martinez, AD, Vega, MV, et al. Effect of vitamin C on fracture healing in elderly Osteogenic Disorder Shionogi rats. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2007 Mar; 89(3):402-407.

Angele, MK, Nitsch, SM, et al. L-Arginine: a unique amino acid for improving depressed wound immune function following hemorrhage. Eur Surg Res. 2002; 34(1-2):53-60.

Cranney, A, Horsley, T, O’Donnell, S, et al. Effectiveness and safety of vitamin D in relation to bone health. Evid Rep Technol Assess. 2007 Aug; 158:1-235.

Hara K, Akiyama Y. Vitamin K and bone quality. Clin Calcium. 2007; 17(11):1678-1684.

Lee YH, Lim YW, Ling PS, Tan YY, et al. Inadequate dietary calcium intake in elderly patients with hip fractures. Singapore Med J. 2007; 48(12):1117-1121.

Wischmeyer, PE. Clinical applications of L-glutamine: past, present, and future. Nutr Clin Pract. 2003 Oct; 18(5):377-385.