Tag Archives: Astaxanthin 4 mg by Pure Encapsulations

Can a Healthy Lifestyle Reverse Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation?

InflammationJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

As part of the body’s immune response, acute inflammation is the beginning of the biological healing process. A central component of innate immunity, inflammation is a local response to pathogens and injured tissue. Per the British Journal of Nutrition, acute inflammation is “marked by increased blood flow, capillary dilation, leukocyte (white blood cell) infiltration and the localized production of a host of chemical mediators,” all in pursuit of the identification and destruction of toxic agents and the repair of damaged tissue. Generally considered to be a protective mechanism, the trouble begins when anti-inflammatory mediators don’t resolve, and pro-inflammatory pathways don’t switch off. The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines plays a critical role in the body’s response to an inflammatory stimulus.

Low grade inflammation is defined as a two to four-fold increase in circulating levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, as well as other markers of immune activity. Chronic inflammation can occur when the body sends an inflammatory response to a perceived threat when a response is unwarranted, or can result from a failure to eliminate the cause of acute inflammation. The association between chronic low-grade systemic inflammation and chronic disease development is well recognized, yet the question as to why the immune system goes awry, signaling attacks on and destruction of its own healthy tissues, remains unclear. Obesity, bacteria; and the western lifestyle, characterized by sedentary habits, sleep deprivation, and a diet rich in industrially refined foods, are considered likely contributors to systemic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can remain silent and symptomless and persist for years until a serious disease presents itself. Elevated unresolved inflammation can affect the body’s organs and tissues, and lead to conditions such as chronic sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as some cancers and Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Crohn’s diseases. The American Heart Association recommends blood tests that measure levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation. Elevated levels of CRP are linked to plaque formation and a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease.

Scientists have found that obese people have higher levels of white blood cells, and ultimately, persistent inflammation. Studies also show that reducing inflammation through weight loss, along with modifiable dietary and lifestyle factors, may offer a disease-prevention strategy. Certain foods, supplements and nutraceuticals are known to target a range of compounds associated with inflammation. Astaxanthin, omega-3 essential fatty acids, and turmeric may help to slowly reduce or prevent inflammation without the side effects of anti-inflammatory OTC formulations and pharmaceuticals.

-Substantial evidence suggests that foods and nutrients, such as those found in a Mediterranean style diet, help to modulate both acute and chronic inflammation.

-Foods that help reduce inflammation include fatty fish, berries, leafy greens, nuts, olives and spices, including ginger, rosemary, cinnamon, garlic and turmeric.

-Foods that fuel inflammation include fried foods, red and processed meats, sugary foods and refined carbohydrates.

-Moderate intensity physical activity can improve weight and cholesterol, enhance cardiac and lung functions, calm stress and reduce inflammation by the release of hormones that decrease production of immune substances.

-Sleeping for fewer than six or more than eight hours nightly is associated with higher levels of C-reactive protein. Although sleep requirements vary, as a general rule, aim for the optimal amount of sleep.

-Omega-3 essential fatty acids are associated with lower levels of proinflammatory markers. An Ohio State University study showed that daily consumption of omega-3’s reduced acute and chronic inflammation, as well as anxiety in a group of young healthy people.

-Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory, has been shown to cool the fires of the inflammatory process in peer reviewed scientific studies.

-Tart cherries’ powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to significantly reduce levels of key inflammatory markers.

– B vitamin insufficiency can harm the lining of the blood vessels through increased clotting, oxidative stress, and interactions with white blood cells. Magnesium deficiency is also thought to play a role in chronic inflammation, and those deficient in vitamin A are more likely to have a prolonged inflammatory response.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements in support of a normal inflammatory response and overall health:

Astaxanthin 4 mgAstaxanthin 4 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: Derived from Hawaiian microalgae cultivated under pristine and highly controlled conditions, this powerful antioxidant naturally supports skin, macula, joint, immune and cardiovascular health. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

ProOmega Lemon 1000...ProOmega® Lemon 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals: Clinically shown to provide high intensity, therapeutic support with high levels of pure omega-3 fatty acids, this deep-sea fish oil provides support for cardiovascualar, liver, joint, immune, brain and eye health, as well as a healthy natural inflammatory response. Gluten free, no artificial ingredients.

 

Tart Cherry UltraTart Cherry Ultra by Enzymatic Therapy: Tart cherries provide anthocyanins, beneficial antioxidant phytonutrients known to inhibit oxidative damage. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, sugar, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Vitamin A 10, 000 I...Vitamin A 10,000 IU by Douglas Laboratories: One softgel provides 10,000 IU of vitamin A palmitate in support of eye and cellular health, and a healthy immune response. Contains soy and fish oil.

 

Active B-ComplexActive B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics: Active B-Complex provides a full complement of bioavailable B vitamins in support of numerous biochemical processes that support good health and bodily function. Gluten, dairy, sugar, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Chelated Magnesium ...Chelated Magnesium by Douglas Laboratories: One tablet provides 100 mg of elemental magnesium in the form of magnesium amino acid chelate for optimum absorption and assimilation in the body.

 

 
References:
Low-grade inflammation, diet composition and health: current research evidence and its translation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4579563/
Lifestyle factors and inflammation: associations by body mass index. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23844105
Inflammation. http://www.wwu.edu/depts/healthyliving/pe511info/infection/description.html
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/Autoimmune/default.asp
Physical Activity & Hypokinetic Disease. http://www.wwu.edu/depts/healthyliving/pe511info/infection/Causes.html
Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423.php
Lifestyle Approaches That Calm Inflammation. http://www.clevelandheartlab.com/blog/lifestyle-approaches-calm-inflammation/

 

 

 

Amp Up Your Free Radical Defense With Antioxidants

defence_antioxidentsJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

Here’s the caveat: Oxidative reactions are crucial for bodily functions, yet oxidative stress causes damage to cell structure and plays a significant role in the development of chronic inflammation and many age-related chronic diseases. An antioxidant, as defined, is any substance that prevents or repairs the damaging effects of the chemical reaction known as oxidation. Oxygen, of course, is essential to life and the very act of breathing results in the continuous generation of thousands of free radicals, inescapable byproducts of the breakdown of oxygen during normal cell metabolism and energy production. Additionally, we are constantly bombarded with externally generated sources, including environmental pollutants, radiation, cigarette smoke, poor dietary habits, excessive exercise, infections and medications, which all increase free radical production. Even so, not everything about free radicals is destructive.

Free radicals are necessary to several essential metabolic processes, but play a dual role as they are both beneficial and deleterious to health. At low or moderate levels, free radicals have beneficial effects on cell division and hormone production, and support immune function, as the immune system releases free radicals to combat and destroy pathogenic invaders. Conversely, as unstable molecules, free radicals can drastically alter the structure and function of cells, disrupting homeostasis and damaging and interfering with cell membrane functions, protein synthesis and cellular nucleic acids. Their instability is the result of an unpaired electron, which causes them to steal from healthy cells to stabilize themselves. This electron theft turns the formerly healthy cells into free radicals themselves, triggering a domino effect as more and more free radicals are produced.

As there is a limited supply of naturally produced antioxidant enzymes available to cells, the amount of free radicals can exceed the body’s ability to scavenge and neutralize excess and unnecessary free radicals. An overload of free radicals results in the condition known as oxidative stress, essentially an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to combat or neutralize them. Oxidative stress plays a major role in the aging process and the development of chronic and degenerative illnesses, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, cancers and other age-related diseases. Diseased cells, such as cancer cells, are particularly vulnerable to free radical take over.

Antioxidants are essentially electron donors that provide the missing electron to counteract a free radical without becoming destabilized themselves. As antioxidants combat oxidative stress by preventing, reducing and repairing free radical damage, they enhance immune defenses and defy the aging process by lowering the risk of developing age-related degenerative diseases. Aging in itself is not an illness, but it does make the body more vulnerable to disease. Healthy cells use naturally produced antioxidant enzymes as well as those obtained through diet and supplementation to protect themselves against free radical damage. The body’s ability to produce the antioxidants glutathione, ubiquinol and uric acid is influenced by aging, genetics, lifestyle habits and exposure to environmental pollution. When we are constantly exposed to environmental pollutants and don’t make the healthiest diet and lifestyle choices, we put ourselves at a higher risk of oxidative stress and, consequently, illness and disease.

Research suggests that free radical damage has a significant negative influence on aging, and that damage can be controlled with adequate antioxidant defense. Optimal intake of antioxidants may positively impact quality of life and lead to a longer, healthier life span. Along with naturally produced antioxidants, vitamins C and E, phytochemicals, flavonoids and beta-carotene, may be obtained through diet and supplementation, which can help suppress or break the chain of free radical production. As not all free radicals are alike, a variety of antioxidants that work synergistically may provide the most effective defense, which is one of the many reasons why a colorful and varied diet is so important for optimal health.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products for antioxidant supplementation. Here are just a few suggestions for you:

Astaxanthin 4 mgAstaxanthin 4 mg by Pure Encapsulations – This powerful antioxidant supports skin, macula, joint, immune and cardiovascular health. Formulated from Hawaiian microalgae and cultivated under pristine conditions, this product also includes vitamin E for its synergistic effects. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic formula.

Ubiquinol CoQ10 100 mg

Ubiquinol CoQ10 100 mg by Vital Nutrients – This activated CoQ10 offers superior bioavailability, increases cellular energy and naturally supports the cardiovascular system. Contains Non-GMO soy lecithin.

 

Renewal Antioxidants™Renewal Antioxidants™ by Source Naturals – This product provides broad spectrum support for multiple body systems and includes a wide range of free radical protection for cells and tissues. Contains wheat and soy.

 

Supercritical AntioxidantsSupercritical Antioxidants by New Chapter – This patented formula delivers multiple, concentrated, carefully selected, synergistic natural herbs that promote cell protection and serve as a proactive approach to healthy aging. Gluten free, Non-GMO formula.

References:
Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249911/
Antioxidants. Balch, Phyllis A., CNC: Prescription for Nutritional Healing. The Penguin Group, 2010.
Free Radicals, Antioxidants in Disease and Health. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3614697/
Online Resources for Disorders Caused by Oxidative Stress. http://www.oxidativestressresource.org/

Everybody’s Talking About Telomeres

Everybody's Talking About TelomeresJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN
 

The relationship of telomere length to cellular aging is a popular subject these days but what are telomeres exactly and how do they affect our longevity and wellbeing?

Telomeres are repeated sequences of DNA found on the ends of DNA strands. They help protect our DNA from getting shorter during cell division and provide protection from damage that inevitably leads to cellular death and loss of health. Telomeres are described as the protective caps found on the ends of our chromosomes that enable cells to divide without losing genes. As a cell can normally divide 50 – 70 times during its lifetime, without these protective ends chromosomes could malfunction and corrupt the cell’s genetic makeup.

Telomere length is now considered a marker for cellular aging. Telomeres progressively shorten over time and eventually cells cease to divide, resulting in age-related degeneration of organs and tissues. Short telomeres impair the ability of cells to properly divide, negatively affecting DNA replication, upsetting healthy physiological balance in the body and contributing to the aging process. Short telomere length is associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, dementia, inflammatory diseases and a shorter lifespan.

Certain cells produce an enzyme called telomerase, which adds bases to ends of young cells to keep them from wearing down too quickly. In time, with repeated cell division, there is not enough telomerase to prevent the shortening of telomeres. To put this in perspective, white blood cells in newborns contain about 8,000 base pairs, or chains of chemical code, that determine the length of their telomeres. In those same cells, adults would have about 3,000 base pairs and the elderly only 1,500. Every time a cell divides, it can lose 30 – 200 base pairs from the ends of its telomeres.

What’s the good news? Longer telomere length is linked to healthy aging and overall longevity. It appears that telomeres can be influenced by non-genetic, healthy lifestyle factors. Based on studies it appears that certain lifestyle habits may help maintain or possibly lengthen telomeres.

  • Improve your nutrition by following a healthy eating pattern such as the Mediterranean diet. Long touted for its health promoting benefits, a recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) showed that adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with longer telomere length, a biomarker of aging. Fruits, vegetables and nuts, key components of the Mediterranean diet, are known for their antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that influence telomere length, the health of your DNA and your genetic material.  
  • If you have yet to start exercising regularly, you may be shortening your lifespan. There’s good reason to participate in vigorous exercise that elevates your heart rate or induces sweating 4 to 5 times each week.
  • To improve your metabolism, maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, try to reduce both your weight and your waist circumference.
  • Enhance your wellbeing by reducing stress. Daily meditation accompanied by mindful breathing helps you to tune into your body and be present in the moment, all helpful for stress reduction. Stress reduction can contribute to increased feelings of personal control and help reduce depression.
  • Nutrients that play a role in supporting, protecting and possibly increasing telomere length include vitamins D, C, E, and B12, omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric and antioxidants such as resveratrol and astaxanthin.  

Products that support healthy aging include:

Resveratrol (200244)Resveratrol (200244) by Douglas Laboratories – As a powerful antioxidant, Resveratrol aids in supporting normal cardiovascular and mitochondrial function. It supports the normal aging process by protecting and supporting telomere elongation and cellular longevity. Gluten, soy, dairy and yeast free formula.

 

Astaxanthin 4 mg

Astaxanthin 4 mg by Pure Encapsulations – Derived from Hawaiian microalgae, this potent antioxidant supports skin, macula, joints, immune, cardiovascular and overall health. Gluten and soy free.

 
 
Meriva-SR Curcumin Phytosome (SF775)
 
Meriva- SR Curcumin Phytosome by Thorne Research – This formula provides highly bioavailable, effective antioxidants to help maintain a normal inflammatory response and support joint and cardiovascular health. Gluten, dairy and yeast free, Non-GMO formula.
 
 
D3 5000
 
D3 5000 by Metagenics – These easy to swallow soft gels support immune, bone, neurological and cardiovascular health with a highly bioavailable form of high potency vitamin D3 as cholecalciferol. Gluten free, Non-GMO formula.

 

References:

Facts About Telomeres and Telomerase. Online. http://www4.utsouthwestern.edu/cellbio/shay-wright/intro/facts/sw_facts.html

Scientists discover an on/off switch for aging cells. Online. http://www.salk.edu/news/pressrelease_details.php?press_id=2052

Mediterranean diet and telomere length in Nurses’ Health Study: population based cohort study. Online. http://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g6674

Are Telomeres The Key To Aging And Cancer? Online. http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/chromosomes/telomeres/

Mediterranean Diet Leads To Genetically Longer Life. Online. http://www.medicaldaily.com/mediterranean-diet-leads-genetically-longer-life-so-indulge-fish-veggies-nuts-and-312862