Tag Archives: Chelated Magnesium by Douglas Laboratories

Healthy Heart

Healthy HeartJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Even the healthiest among us realize that cardio-metabolic wellness is a top concern with aging. Cardiovascular fitness requires a multifactorial approach that includes a healthy diet and lifestyle. Conventional medicine often includes commonly prescribed life-long medications to treat or improve symptoms of cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure, inadequate blood flow, chest pain and abnormal heart beat. Anticoagulants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, diuretics, vasodilators, beta blockers and ACE inhibitors will often produce desired results, frequently accompanied by side effects. As well, consumers are reaching out for clinically validated, high quality nutritional supplements to complement a holistic approach to cardiac wellness and long-term overall health.

A hard working muscle, the heart is tasked with pumping oxygen and nutrient-rich blood through the circulatory system to all areas of the body. As such, heart health depends upon a strong network of blood vessels. Factors that contribute to a high risk of cardiovascular disease include smoking, obesity, chronic stress, sedentary lifestyle and inadequate nutrition. Conditions associated with cardiovascular disease include: atherosclerosis, a condition in which cholesterol-rich plaque builds up along arterial walls; insulin resistance, which plays a role in regulating inflammation and is a precursor to developing type 2 diabetes; high homocysteine levels, which can contribute to plaque formation and arterial wall damage; and angina pectoris, chest pain that can occur when there is a dramatic decrease of blood flow to the heart.

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, clinically validated supplements can support healthy heart and overall function.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is regarded as one of the most important nutrients for cardiovascular disease prevention. Health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes have been linked to low levels of CoQ10. Naturally produced by the body, CoQ10 aids the mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses involved in energy production that supports optimal overall and healthy muscle functioning. A powerful antioxidant, CoQ10 helps to prevent LDL cholesterol oxidation, as well as free radical cellular damage. With aging, the body’s production of this important compound declines. In studies, CoQ10, or its reduced form ubiquinol, may improve heart function, increase energy production and limit oxidative damage. CoQ10 may also increase insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids: Fatty fish and fish oil supplements have proven to be an effective preventive strategy against heart disease. Science supports omega-3 intake to help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Omega-3’s are healthy fats that may minimize inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, increase good HDL cholesterol and support blood vessel health.

B-complex vitamins: High levels of homocysteine are linked to early development of heart disease and arterial damage. Homocysteine is an amino acid that results from the breakdown of dietary protein. High homocysteine is linked to inadequate intake of vitamins B6 and B12, cofactors in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, necessary for cellular reactions. Stress can also increase the need for B6 and B12.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): Manufactured by the body, ALA is sometimes referred to as the “universal antioxidant,” as it is both water and fat soluble. Found naturally in every cell, ALA affects every organ, including the heart. ALA converts glucose into the energy needed for bodily functions and may improve blood sugar control, as well as cellular insulin response. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it may prevent DNA damage, as well as protect against oxidation of LDL cholesterol, plaque build-up and atherosclerosis.

Garlic: Used traditionally for centuries, modern science has confirmed beneficial health effects associated garlic. Highly nutritious, garlic may improve blood pressure and reduce total and LDL cholesterol, risk factors for heart disease. Its antioxidant properties help protect against cellular damage, a common cause of chronic disease. For those concerned about garlic’s pungent odor, garlic intake may be easily increased with odorless garlic supplements.

Magnesium: A natural calming nutrient, magnesium dilates the arteries, potentially lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. It serves as a cofactor for hundreds of enzymatic processes and is considered essential for proper cardiovascular function. Magnesium aids healthy sleep, which can help reduce stress, and supports healthy blood sugar levels, a major concern of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Inadequate magnesium intake is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and arrhythmias.

Ideally, cardio-metabolic wellness begins with a lifelong journey of healthy choices and an active lifestyle. For those in mid-life who are not physically fit, it’s not too late to improve future health and reverse the beginnings of heart damage, as becoming physically active has a high impact on heart health. A recent study published in the journal, Circulation, involving individual in their early 50s, found that high and moderate intensity exercise four to five times each week improved heart elasticity, as well as oxygen uptake. Regular exercise can help to lower blood pressure, control cholesterol, reduce blood sugar and maintain weight, all contributing factors for a healthy heart.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of cardiac and overall wellness:

CoQ10 100 mgCoQ10 100 mg by Professional Supplement Center®: ON SALE Each serving provides 100 mg of highly bioavailable CoQ10 as ubiquinone in support of cardiovascular, periodontal, immune and liver health. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Alpha Lipoic Acid...Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: Alpha Lipoic Acid helps maintain healthy glucose metabolism, supports the nervous system and provides nutritional support for metabolic processes. Gluten free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic vegan formulation.

Garlic 6000Garlic 6000 by Vital Nutrients: These enteric coated garlic caplets support the maintenance of  healthy cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as help sustain cholesterol levels already within the normal range. Gluten, dairy, soy, egg and sugar free formulation.

 

Chelated MagnesiumChelated Magnesium by Douglas Laboratories®: Each tablet provides 100 mg of elemental magnesium as magnesium amino acid chelate in support of cardiac health and skeletal muscle physiology. Yeast, wheat, gluten, soy protein, milk/dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch and  artificial ingredient free, vegan formulation.

Omega Pro-DOmega Pro-D by Professional Supplement Center®:  ON SALE Omega Pro-D provides 1000 IU of highly bioavailable vitamin D3 as cholecalciferol blended with pure, wild-sourced, molecularly distilled omega-3 essential fatty acids in support of immune and neurological function, as well as cardiovascular, joint and skin health. Gluten free and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

References:
Out of shape and middle-aged? It’s not too late to turn it around. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2018/09/27/out-of-shape-and-middle-aged-its-not-too-late-to-turn-it-around
Cardiac Medications. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/cardiac-medications
9 Benefits of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coenzyme-q10
Magnesium for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. https://openheart.bmj.com/content/5/2/e000775
You Can Prevent Hardening of the Arteries. https://www.consumerreports.org/heart-disease/prevent-hardening-of-arteries/

 

Magnesium and Other Heart Healthy Choices

MagnesiumHeartHealthJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

When it comes to heart disease, there’s good news and bad news. The bad news is that heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women. The good news is that cardiovascular disease is largely preventable with healthy lifestyle choices. While some risk factors like age and family history remain, even modest changes to your diet and lifestyle can improve heart health and lower disease development risk by as much as 80 percent.  Modifiable risk factors such as improved diet, regular exercise and not smoking are ways to help control the risk of heart disease and improve cardiovascular and overall long-term health.

Did you know that the heart does more physical work than any other muscle in the body? Or that the average heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood each day? Or that in a 70-year lifetime, the average human heart beats more than 2.5 billion times? With a workload like that, it’s little wonder our hard-working hearts could use a little support.

Adequate daily magnesium intake has been shown to have therapeutic value in treating conditions such as headaches, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and asthma. Sufficient magnesium levels are linked to reduced incidences of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and very importantly, heart disease. The body needs magnesium for steady heart rhythm, normal nerve and muscle function, healthy immune response, hormone synthesis, gene maintenance, and bone health. Magnesium is a required cofactor for hundreds of enzymes that regulate diverse cellular and biochemical reactions, including blood sugar, blood pressure, energy metabolism, and protein synthesis. Sufficient magnesium is critical for cardiovascular health and calcium balance.

Contrary to the belief that cholesterol and saturated fat play the biggest roles in heart disease, a review of studies dating back to 1937 revealed that low magnesium levels are linked with all known cardiovascular risk factors and symptoms of heart disease. These include high blood pressure, arterial plaque buildup, soft tissue calcification, atherosclerosis, heart arrhythmia, and angina, as well as heart attack. While it would seem that sufficient magnesium could be obtained through diet, crops are grown in magnesium depleted soil, and the ability to absorb and utilize this key mineral is affected by age and each individual’s state of heath. Studies suggest that for up to 75 percent of Americans, magnesium deficiency is the norm, rather than the exception.

The typical American diet, high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, is not only deficient in nutrients, but may actually elevate the need for magnesium. An excessive intake of unhealthy fats reduces magnesium absorption in the intestines, high sugar intake increases excretion of magnesium by the kidneys, and phosphates found in carbonated beverages bind magnesium, rendering it unusable by the body. In addition to improper diet or malnutrition, common causes of low magnesium include malabsorption issues associated with illness, chronic conditions and aging, alcohol use, and high blood calcium levels, as well as many pharmaceuticals and OTC medications, including antibiotics, antacids, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, blood pressure drugs, heart medications, and hormone replacement therapy.

The list of common symptoms of magnesium insufficiency is long and varied and includes muscle cramps, twitches and weakness, osteoporosis, fatigue, abnormal eye movements, chronic inflammation, and increased risk of depression and anxiety. When untreated, low magnesium levels can be a life-threatening emergency that can lead to cardiac and respiratory arrest. Long recognized as a sleep aid and muscle relaxant, you can enhance your body’s absorption and utilization of magnesium by reducing alcohol and processed food intake, and increasing magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, avocados, legumes, whole grains, leafy greens, fatty fish and tofu.

Getting sufficient magnesium is essential for maintaining long-term overall and cardiac health. As even those with a balanced diet rich in magnesium sources can suffer from deficiencies, high quality supplementation of this commonly deficient essential mineral can help ensure optimal bodily function, as well as improve mood and support relaxed, peaceful sleep.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high-quality supplements to support overall and cardiac health:

Magnesium CitrateMagnesium Citrate by Professional Supplement Center: This Non-GMO formulation provides magnesium in a highly absorbable chelated form in support of proper nerve, muscle, and healthy metabolic function.

 

Chelated MagnesiumChelated Magnesium by Douglas Laboratories®: This product supplies elemental magnesium in the form of magnesium amino acid chelate in support of a wide range of fundamental cellular reactions. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch, and artificial ingredient free, vegan formulation.

 

Magnesium ChelateMagnesium Chelate by Designs for Health: This product supplies TRAACS® magnesium bisglycinate chelate, a highly absorbable and bioavailable form of elemental magnesium that is less likely to cause unfavorable gastrointestinal symptoms that other forms. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Magnesium (citrate...Magnesium (Citrate/Malate) by Pure Encapsulations®: This naturally derived highly bioavailable magnesium chelate provides broad spectrum cardiac support and promotes healthy glucose and bone metabolism. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Magnesium Glycinate...Magnesium Glycinate Plus by Integrative Therapeutics®: This popular product provides well-tolerated highly absorbable, triple-form magnesium for maximum utilization, in support of cardiovascular, muscular and neurological function. Gluten, wheat, dairy, sugar, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
February is American Heart Month. http://newsroom.heart.org/events/february-is-american-heart-month-6669831
7 Signs and Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-deficiency-symptoms
Low magnesium level. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000315.htm
Low Magnesium Linked to Heart Disease. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/255783.php
Magnesium. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-healthProfessional/

 

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/