Monthly Archives: December 2018

Children and Nutrients

Children nutrientsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

When an estimated 160 million American adults are considered overweight or obese, it’s alarming, but not surprising, that nearly 30 percent of girls and boys under age 20 are also overweight or obese. The rate of obesity among American children is troubling, as severe health effects of childhood obesity include high blood pressure and high cholesterol, risks for developing cardiovascular disease. Overweight children are also at risk for impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, as well as joint issues, musculoskeletal discomfort and fatty liver disease. Overweight children often have low self-esteem, anxiety and depression, social problems and self-reported low quality of life. That’s a lot of issues and pressure for children to deal with, especially when healthier lifestyle habits can support physical and psychological health.

Like adults, childhood obesity is influenced by unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Drivers of childhood obesity include a diet filled with high-calorie, low-nutrient-density foods and sugary beverages, inadequate physical activity and a high amount of sedentary time, as well as unhealthy sleep patterns. Many in the medical community warn that childhood obesity is a lifetime sentence, as overweight children grow to be overweight adults with threatened life expectancy and diminished long-term health. Conversely, a healthy diet and regular physical activity support healthy growth and development, as well as normal weight maintenance throughout childhood.

Despite previous reports that childhood obesity had stabilized in recent years, a team of experts at Duke University found no evidence of a decline in obesity prevalence among children or adults. Sadly, as the obesity epidemic continues to worsen, researchers found that the most severe obesity was increasing among very young children, those under five years of age, as well as girls in their late teens. While a comprehensive national strategy is needed to combat the obesity epidemic, including reserving time for physical education in schools and protecting children from manipulative food advertising, good lifestyle habits begin in the home. When parents model healthy behaviors, kids follow suit. Although getting a child to eat healthy foods can be a constant struggle, it is a battle worth fighting, as healthy children grow to be healthy adults.

  • Americans typically exceed the recommended levels of calories from solid fats, added sugars, refined grains and sodium.
  • Foods that provide calories but not nutrients, such as added sugars and fats, make up approximately 40 percent of the daily diet for 2 – 18 year olds, largely from soft drinks, pizza and desserts.
  • Only one in three children are physically active every day.
  • Many children spend an average of seven and one half hours in front of a screen, such as TV, phones, and computers.
  • On an average school day, nearly one third of teens play video or computer games for three or more hours.
  • In general, American adults and children eat less than the recommended amounts of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables and grains, as well as dairy and healthy fats.

A recent national survey found that 75 percent of respondents considered their diets to be good, very good or excellent. While some seem confused about what actually constitutes a healthy diet, adding a fruit or a vegetable to every meal is a good place to start. While we may be choosing foods that are healthy in moderation, portion size is a major cause of obesity.

Estimated daily caloric needs for children and teens:

  • 2-3 years old – 1,000
  • 4-8 years old – 1,200-1,400
  • 9-13 year old girls – 1,400-1,600
  • 9-13 year old boys – 1,600-2,000
  • 14-18 year old girls –  1,800
  • 14-18 year old boys – 2,000-2,400

Infants and babies under age 2 need healthy fats for brain and nerve development. Toddlers and preschoolers need calcium to build strong bones and teeth. This is a good age to encourage fruit and vegetable consumption, as kids need nutrients as well as fiber for healthy digestion. Grade schoolers need sufficient protein, complex carbs and healthy fats. Teens have higher calcium requirements, as the majority of bone mass is built during this time. As well, teen girls have higher iron requirements and boys need slightly higher protein than girls. During the first year of life, infants don’t require water, but at all other ages, offer water frequently, especially when its hot outside or when children are engaged in sports or physical activity.

  • Vitamin A is needed for healthy skin and normal growth, as well as vision and tissue repair.
  • Vitamin B assists in metabolic activities and is necessary to produce red blood cells.
  • Vitamin C is needed for immune system health and strength, as well as for healthy tissue, muscles and skin.
  • Vitamin D aids calcium absorption into bones and aids the formation of strong teeth.
  • Iron helps build muscles and healthy blood.
  • Calcium is vital for the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.
  • Supplements are not intended to replace a healthy diet. However they can provide nutrients often missing in the diet in support of overall health, growth and development.

Professional Supplement Center offers many high quality supplements formulated to support children’s and teens’ digestive and overall health:

Junior NutrientsJunior Nutrients by Pure Encapsulations®: Designed for teens and children ages 4 and over, this hypoallergenic formula provides nutrient-rich, highly bioavailable activated multivitamins, minerals and trace elements in support of daily wellness. Gluten free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

Ther-Biotic Children...Ther-Biotic® Children’s Chewable by Klaire Labs™: This broad-spectrum hypoallergenic probiotic supplement is formulated for children ages 2 and older. A potent pre-and probiotic blend, these natural cherry flavored chewable tablets provide 25 billion CFU of 8 beneficial strains of microflora in support of healthy gastrointestinal and immune function in children. Free of gluten, wheat, milk/casein, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, soy and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.

Berry DophilusBerry Dophilus™ by Now® Foods: Suitable for adults and children, these berry flavored chewables provide a blend of 10 clinically validated strains of beneficial probiotic strains for a total of 2 billion CFU per serving. Berry Dophilus™ is designed to support healthy gastrointestinal and immune function and a healthy microbiome, creating a favorable environment for absorption of nutrients. Xylitol sweetened. Gluten, wheat, dairy, egg, soy and  tree nut free, kosher, halal, keto-friendly vegan formulation.

Digest Smart Kids...Digest Smart® Kids Enzyme by Renew Life™: This berry flavored chewable amino acid and plant-based enzyme formula provides 7 kid-friendly digestive enzymes that gently break down proteins, carbohydrates and fats in support of healthy digestive function, as well as a healthy intestinal lining. No sugar or artificial ingredients. Quality, purity and potency guaranteed through expiration date.

Ultra Preventive...Ultra Preventative® Kids Grape by Douglas Laboratories®: Formulated for children ages 4 and older, this great tasting chewable multivitamin, mineral and trace element supplement provides important antioxidant vitamins C and E, a complete vitamin B complex, easily absorbable calcium and magnesium, as well as a full spectrum of bioavailable trace elements in support of children’s overall health and wellbeing. Free of yeast, gluten, soy protein, milk/dairy, corn, sodium, starch and artificial coloring, flavoring and preservatives. Vegetarian formulation.

References:
Childhood Obesity Causes and Consequences:  https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood/causes.html
The vast majority of American adults are overweight or obese, and weight is a growing problem among US children, http://www.healthdata.org/news-release/vast-majority-american-adults-are-overweight-or-obese-and-weight-growing-problem-among
Childhood Nutrition. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Childhood-Nutrition.aspx
Understanding the Role of Nutrition in the Brain & Behavioral Development of Toddlers and Preschool Children: Identifying and Overcoming Methodological Barriers. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2776771/
Kids Need Their Nutrients. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=kids-need-their-nutrients–1-19820

 

About Supplemental Forms of Vitamin C

Vitamin CJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient critically important for many biological functions. Notably, vitamin C acts as cofactor for a number of enzymatic reactions, including collagen, carnitine and catecholamine synthesis, as well as wound healing and neurotransmitter production. As a potent antioxidant, vitamin C strengthens the body’s natural defenses by scavenging damaging free radicals, thereby providing protection against oxidative stress-induced cellular damage. In fact, vitamin C is the body’s primary water-soluble antioxidant. Adequate daily intake of antioxidants like vitamins C and E is vital to combat the pro-inflammatory effects of free radicals. Several epidemiological studies have found that vitamin C may protect against coronary heart disease and gout, diseases with inflammatory components. Higher blood levels of vitamin C are associated with lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a substance produced by the liver associated with overall and cardiac-related inflammation.

Unlike other mammals, the human body is unable to synthesize vitamin C, meaning it must be obtained through vitamin C-rich foods or through daily supplementation. Even in small amounts, vitamin C protects indispensable molecules including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids from free radicals, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Generated through normal metabolism and immune cell activity, as well as exposure to toxins and pollutants, ROS have the potential to wreak havoc on a broad range of macromolecules when produced in excess. Though the debate continues, overall evidence shows that regular intake of sufficient vitamin C may shorten the duration of, but not cure, the common cold. Additionally, by enhancing intestinal absorption of non-heme iron, Vitamin C increases the bioavailability of iron obtained from the diet. Plasma levels of vitamin C are tightly controlled by intestinal absorption, tissue transport and renal reabsorption.

Supplemental forms of Vitamin C explained:

Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid is the biologically active form of vitamin C found naturally in certain fruits and vegetables. It may also be obtained through extended-release capsules, lozenges, chewable tablets, powders and in liquid form. Vitamin C plays important roles in the growth and repair of all bodily tissues including skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. It aids in the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth, as well as wound healing and scar tissue formation.

Mineral ascorbates: Less acidic, and therefore less irritating to the gastrointestinal tract than other forms, buffered mineral ascorbates are often recommended to those with intestinal issues. With mineral ascorbates, both the mineral and the ascorbic acid appear to be well absorbed. There are many forms available for those wishing to increase individual mineral intake along with vitamin C, including potassium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, manganese and molybdenum. Sodium ascorbate is milder than ascorbic acid and more stomach friendly but may not be suitable for those on a low sodium diet for high blood pressure. As well, those who are taking potassium-sparing diuretics or those with renal insufficiency should avoid significant intake of potassium ascorbate.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids: Research suggests that vitamin C and bioflavonoids have a complementary effect. Naturally occurring plant-derived antioxidant chemical compounds known collectively as polyphenols, flavonoids work synergistically with vitamin C. Flavonoids may affect the transport of vitamin C throughout the body and may also influence the absorption and utilization of vitamin C. In addition, vitamin C with flavonoids may offer additional protection against coronary heart disease, as well as protect nerve cells from damage.

Ascorbates and vitamin C metabolites (Ester-C®): Ester-C® contains calcium ascorbates as well as small amounts of vitamin C metabolites, such as threonate, shown in studies to increase the bioavailability of vitamin C.

Vitamin C insufficiency can be seen in approximately 40 percent of the U.S. adult population. Smokers and those with diets deficient in fruits and vegetables are advised to increase consumption of vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries and kiwi, as well as cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Daily high quality vitamin C supplementation can help ensure adequate intake of this vitally important essential nutrient.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality vitamin C supplements in support of overall health:

Pure Ascorbic AcidPure Ascorbic Acid by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides 1,000 mg of vitamin C as ascorbic acid per serving. Necessary for connective tissue heath and the maintenance of bones and teeth, this essential nutrient provides powerful antioxidant support for cellular and overall health. Also available in powdered form. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

Vitamin C plusVitamin C + by Professional Supplement Center®ON SALE Vitamin C + provides high potency buffered vitamin C as well as bioavailable mineral cofactors and bioflavonoids for optimal absorption and utilization. Vitamin C is provided in ascorbate form to inhibit stomach irritation. Gluten free vegetarian formulation.

Ester-C® FlavonoidsEster-C® and Flavonoids by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides vitamin C as calcium ascorbate enhanced with flavonoid compounds to help maintain a healthy immune system, blood vessel integrity and cellular health. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

References:
Overview of Inflammation: https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/inflammation
Vitamins C and E: Beneficial effects from a mechanistic perspective. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156342/
The Bioavailability of Different Forms of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C/supplemental-forms
Free Radicals and Reactive Oxygen. http://www.vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/topics/radicals.html
Vitamin C: Sources & Benefits: https://www.livescience.com/51827-vitamin-c.html
Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835915/
The Benefits of Taking 500 mg of Buffered Vitamin C. https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-taking-500mg-buffered-vitamin-c-10912.html

Pure Encapsulations® – Featured Brand

PureEncapsulationsSusan Brown Health and Wellness Editor

What’s in a name? At Pure Encapsulations®, the name means just that. Pure Encapsulations® manufactures hypoallergenic, researched-based supplements designed to support optimal health and function. To create safe and effective products, Pure Encapsulations® collaborates with experienced researchers and supports ongoing clinical trials at the Mayo Clinic and Stanford University. Pure, premium raw ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers in the U.S., France, Japan, Switzerland, Germany and Italy. To qualify as an independent supplier, rigorous testing and quality criteria must be met. All ingredients and final products undergo third-party scientific and microbiological testing at certified independent laboratories to verify purity, potency and safety.

Products are manufactured to the highest standards in Sudbury, Massachusetts in a state-of-the-art NSF-GMP registered, temperature, humidity and dust controlled facility. Supplement labels list all ingredients, including composition of raw materials, standardization of herbal extracts and true elemental weight of minerals. Equally important is what the supplements do not contain. All products are free from wheat, gluten, eggs, peanuts, GMO ingredients, and artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners, as well as coatings, unnecessary binders, fillers and  preservatives. Available solely though healthcare practitioners, Pure Encapsulations® premium health supportive supplements deliver predictable and desired results in support of the body’s full wellness potential.

To see the entire line of products from Pure Encapsulations®, please visit professionalsupplementcenter.com  Some of our customer’s favorite products include:

AntiOxidant FormulaAntiOxidant Formula: This once daily broad-spectrum antioxidant formula is designed to protect against free radical damage, as well as support the body’s natural cellular defense mechanisms. Research shows that a combination of antioxidants can better protect cellular and overall good health. Gluten free, non-GMO formulation.

UltraNutrientUltraNutrient®: This advanced formula provides high potency bioavailable vitamins, minerals and standardized phytonutrient extracts for broad-spectrum nutritional support for daily wellness. UltraNutrient® is formulated to support cardiovascular, immune, cellular and liver health, as well as homocysteine metabolism. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Muscle Cramp/Tension...Muscle Cramp/Tension Formula: This formula provides soothing herbs, as well as magnesium, calcium and potassium, important electrolytes for maintaining healthy muscle function. These specific ingredients help to relieve occasional nighttime leg muscle cramps, minor muscle cramps associated with athletic activity, and overall muscle tension, as well as help moderate occasional stress and promote overall relaxation. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Junior NutrientsJunior Nutrients: This nutrient rich, hypoallergenic, highly bioavailable multivitamin, mineral, antioxidant and trace element supplement is designed to provide the nutrients necessary for growth, development and overall health. Suitable for teens and children over 4 years old. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.