Tag Archives: Enzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for Men by Enzymedica

Health or Consequences

HealthConsequencesJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Two very important aspects of a healthy lifestyle are a nutritious diet and regular exercise.  A nutritious diet is defined as one that is balanced, but what does this mean exactly? While we might think of a balanced diet as one that includes a variety of foods, a balanced diet is meant to provide the appropriate amount of caloric energy needed to maintain the body’s energy balance. Energy balance means that daily caloric intake is equal to the calories utilized by the body to maintain proper function. A balanced diet should be high in essential nutrients found in whole foods, including fresh vegetables and fruits, legumes, nuts, proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, and low in undesirable high sodium processed foods, unhealthy fats, junk foods, and sugar.

Why is a balanced diet so important for health?

While occasional indulgence of low-nutrient foods may not be problematic, even a short term unhealthy diet can have negative health consequences. Unhealthy eating means consuming excess calories, consuming empty calorie foods that have little or no nutritive value, and consuming foods known to be hazardous to health, such as fried foods, sugary drinks, and low fiber highly processed foods. While a balanced diet includes foods that provide the most nourishment for the calories they contain, an imbalanced diet may result in nutritional deficiencies, weight gain, and a compromised immune system. Without proper nutrition, the body is prone to infection, fatigue, disease and poor performance. The core of a balanced diet includes foods that are low in unnecessary sugars and refined carbohydrates and high in whole food nutrients.

Short-term effects of an unhealthy diet:

Brain function – The brain requires sufficient nutrients, such as glucose, healthy fats and antioxidants, for nourishment and normal functioning. A diet lacking in proper nutrients can result in reduced alertness, as well as poor memory and concentration. While vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and phytonutrients may protect memory and slow age-related cognitive decline, a diet high in processed foods and sugars is associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and accelerated cognitive decline.

Energy – A balanced diet keeps energy levels steady, while sugary and refined foods provide a burst of energy followed by an energy slump. Poor diets are often deficient in nutrients and enzymes that support mitochondrial energy production and oxygen transport, such as B vitamins, CoQ10 and iron. Inadequate nutrients can result in poor muscle strength, endurance, and coordination, as well as physical weakness.

Mood – A healthy diet can support memory, balance brain chemistry, and stabilize blood sugar. Blood sugar spikes and crashes are associated with mood swings, crankiness and depression. Good nutrition is necessary for the production and proper function of brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, that promote positive mood and regulate sleep.

Sleep – Good nutrition aids the production of neurotransmitters necessary for adequate sleep and provides the nutrients that build amino acids also involved in sleep. Studies show that eating less fiber and more unhealthy fats and sugars during the day may result in interrupted less restorative sleep. Poor sleep patterns are linked to higher rates of obesity and metabolic diseases, while good nutrient choices can optimize circadian rhythm and keep all bodily functions running on schedule.

Skin health – We may not think about feeding our skin, but those who want healthy, glowing skin should optimize their nutrition and hydration. Nutrient dense foods supply the vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed to build the collagen and elastin that keep skin strong and supple. Sufficient protein is essential for repair and replacement of new, healthy skin cells. Foods high in antioxidants help protect cells from sun damage and fight free radicals that break down collagen over time. A diet rich in vitamins, A, D, C and E as well as phytonutrients appears to have a beneficial effect on promoting and protecting skin health.

Digestive discomfort – Digestive distress can be a sign of a low dietary fiber intake. Whole foods rich in soluble and insoluble fiber keep the digestive system running smoothly and support balanced healthy microflora. Poor digestion can wreak havoc on the body, mood and sense of wellbeing. Elimination of chemical laden, highly processed foods and sugars can help keep gut microflora healthy and well-balanced, thereby reducing discomfort and improving nutrient absorption.

In the long term, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a proper weight can add healthy years to your life and reduce the risk of certain diseases including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and obesity. In the short-term it can also make you feel and look your best, give you more energy, improve sleep and digestion, and help maintain a healthy weight.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products in support of good nutrition and overall wellness:

CoQ10 100 mgCoQ10 100 mg by Professional Supplement Center: This product supplies highly bioavailable CoQ10, an important antioxidant that aids carbohydrate metabolism, oxygen utilization and cellular energy production. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

DFH Complete Multi...DFH Complete Multi™ with Copper (Iron-Free) by Designs for Health®: This full-spectrum multivitamin with Albion chelated minerals provides highly absorbable bioavailable nutrients in support of optimal wellness.

 

Enzyme Nutrition...Enzyme Nutrition™ Multi-vitamin for Men by Enzymedica: Designed to meet the unique needs of men, this whole food multi contains Enzyme Activated Nutrients™ plus Thera-blend™ enzymes that enhance the utilization of the nutrients. The formula also includes certified organic superfoods and botanicals as well as guaranteed potency probiotics. Gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, preservative and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation. Also available: Enzyme Nutrition™ Multi-Vitamin for Women.

 

Digestive Enzymes...Digestive Enzymes Ultra by Pure Encapsulations®: This high-strength mixture of vegetarian enzymes supports enhanced protein, carbohydrate, fat, fiber, and dairy digestion, and promotes optimal nutrient bioavailability and absorption. Gluten free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic vegetarian formulation.

References:
A healthy, balanced diet.   https://www.nutrition.org.uk/healthyliving/healthydiet/healthybalanceddiet.html
Short-Term Effects of Bad Eating Habits. http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/short-term-effects-bad-eating-habits-2579.html
Short-Term Effects of Good Eating. http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/shortterm-effects-good-eating-11400.html
What is the Difference Between a Balanced Diet & an Unbalanced Diet?  http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/differencee-between-balanced-diet-unbalanced-diet-10916.html
Balanced Diet. https://www.healthline.com/health/balanced-diet#Overview1
Eating to boost energy. https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/eating-to-boost-energy
Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626
How What You Eat Affects Your Sleep. https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/how-what-you-eat-affects-how-you-sleep-ncna805256

 

Healthy Aging Support for Men over 40

HealthyAgingMenJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

It happens to all of us. We wake up one morning and are surprised to find ourselves suddenly in midlife when we feel no different than we felt yesterday. Right about the time we reach age 40, we may begin to realize that we are not invincible, and that we need to take steps to protect our longevity and long term health. While we may look forward to many active years ahead, how we live now will determine how we live in later life. Practicing prevention with a healthy lifestyle, while we are young, will result in healthier years ahead. It will also reduce the risk of developing preventable chronic diseases and gender specific health issues associated with aging. As well, a dismissive attitude towards prevention can have dire consequences in the long term. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the top health concerns for aging men are prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease, erectile dysfunction, weight management, diabetes and stroke.

Men’s protein needs are proportionally greater than women’s, especially when combined with regular physical activity. Physically active men who wish to maintain lean muscle mass as they grow older require more protein than sedentary men. As metabolic rates decrease with age, good quality protein along with vitamins and minerals help to maintain both lean muscle mass and energy levels. Good nutrition is needed to maintain immune function and overall health, as well as to protect muscle, bone, prostate, cardiac and vision health. Antioxidant vitamins that help prevent oxidative damage also become more important with aging. Older adults need more calcium and vitamin D to help maintain strong and healthy bones. Fiber keeps the gastrointestinal tract running smoothly and helps to reduce cholesterol and maintain weight.

Cardiovascular health – The American Heart Association indicates that one in three adult men have some form of cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides and homocysteine levels begin to creep up with aging, increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke. Adult men should monitor their cholesterol and blood pressure levels, as high levels are known contributors to heart disease, and high blood pressure is common in younger males. Essential nutrients for heart health include omega-3 fatty acids for decreased inflammation, and maintenance of healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels; folate and vitamin B6 for maintenance of healthy homocysteine levels; CoQ10 for maintenance of cellular energy; healthy fats for reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels; polyphenols, to aid relaxation of blood vessels and lower blood pressure; and antioxidants such as resveratrol, to combat oxidative stress and reduce free radicals.

Weight management – As we age, metabolism slows and exercise becomes increasingly important. Eating for health and controlling portion sizes are critical to maintaining a healthy weight. A poor diet that includes salty and highly processed foods contributes to hypertension, high blood sugar and ultimately, obesity, poor health and a host of age related chronic illnesses. Healthy foods for weight management include eggs, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, fish, lean proteins, beans and legumes, and healthy fats such as avocado.

Diabetes – Along with the current obesity epidemic, type 2 diabetes is a significant health concern for older men. Blood glucose levels should be monitored, as blood sugar can frequently be maintained or lowered with a healthy diet and lifestyle, often warding off pre-diabetes, diabetes and insulin dependency. The American Diabetes Association recommends that those eating a largely plant based diet should be sure to get sufficient amounts of vitamin B12, omega–3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D and iron. For diabetes prevention, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health recommends exercising to reach and maintain normal weight, following a healthy nutritious, low glycemic index diet, not smoking and limiting alcohol.

Eye health – Changes in vision and hearing loss are relatively common for people in their 40’s. Many will typically notice problems with close range vision especially in low light. Some may experience floaters or dry eye syndrome. Good nutrition and eye friendly nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, zinc and essential fatty acids support and preserve long term vision health, and help to reduce the risk of developing age related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma or cataracts.

Prostate health – The majority of American men develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. A prostate-healthy, largely plant based diet that includes legumes, garlic, onions and flax seeds, plus other modifiable lifestyle factors, including regular physical activity, can prevent or positively influence progression of the disease. As obesity is a risk factor for developing BPH, a diet high in vegetables, fruits, fiber and nutrients can help ward off weight gain, thereby supporting prostate health. Lycopene, found in tomatoes, red grapefruits, papaya and other red fruits and vegetables, helps to lower the blood levels of antigen, a protein connected to prostate inflammation and BPH.

Stress management – Chronic stress is a known high risk factor for coronary disease. Participation in regular exercise, healthy amounts of restorative sleep and relaxation techniques reduce stress and help allay future health concerns. Healthy eating is crucial to provide immune and energy support during times of increased stress. Whole, unprocessed foods that contain fiber and phytonutrients boost immune function and help maintain overall health. As stress creates a greater physiological demand for energy, oxygen, and circulation, a daily vitamin and mineral supplement can provide micronutrient support. Supplements including antioxidants, B vitamins and omega-3 fats are particularly important for those under stress.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements for men’s health support:

Every Man's One Daily by New ChapterEvery Man’s Once Daily by New Chapter – This whole food complexed multivitamin is specifically formulated to meet the needs of active men and provide support for immune function, energy production and cardiac health. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Trilogy Men by Vibrant HealthTrilogy Men by Vibrant Health – This unique product supplies a daily power pack that includes a 100% organic plant based multivitamin, mercury free EPA and DHA fish oil, as well as a 12 strain probiotic. It provides 20 billion CFU of helpful microorganisms in support of healthy blood sugar levels, cardiac health, energy production and immune and overall health. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Al's Formula (Basic Nutrients For Men Over 40) (VMM) by Thorne ResearchAl’s Formula Basic Nutrients for Men over 40 –  This comprehensive formula, specifically designed to meet men’s nutritional needs, provides prostate support, promotes healthy cardiovascular function and supplies all essential nutrients for overall health. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

 

Enzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for Men by EnzymedicaEnzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for Men by Enzymedica – This product provides 100% whole food and enzyme activated nutrients that enhance the utilization of vitamins and minerals. The formula includes guaranteed potency probiotics, nutrient rich superfoods and daily botanicals in order to support increased energy and stamina, heart health, and immune function and to promote longevity. Gluten, soy and dairy fee, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

 

MultiMedica for Men by NuMedicaMultiMedica for Men by NuMedica – This comprehensive multivitamin, mineral, botanical and amino acid formula is designed to meet the unique nutritional requirements of men. This product provides overall wellness support and antioxidant protection, along with prostate, liver and adrenal supportive nutrients. Gluten and dairy free.

 

Homocysteine Factors by Pure EncapsulationsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations – This high quality product provides activated vitamin B6 and bioavailable folate in support of the maintenance of healthy homocysteine levels. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

 

References:
Nutrition for Older Men. http://www.eatright.org/resource/health/wellness/healthy-aging/nutrition-for-older-men
Top Health Concerns for Men and Women. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2012/03/top-health-concerns-for-men-women/
10 Top Health Risks for Men. http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/top-10-health-risks-for-men#2
Healthy aging – http://www.healthcommunities.com/healthy-aging/healthy-living-tips-40s.shtml
Diet and Nutrition – http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diet-and-nutrition?sso=y
Important Nutrients for Stress Management. http://paleoleap.com/important-nutrients-stress-management/
10 Essential Nutrients for Heart Health. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7757/10-essential-nutrients-for-heart-health.html
Key Nutrients – http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/planning-meals/meal-planning-for-vegetarians/nutirents-vegetarians.html
Simple Steps to Preventing Diabetes. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/diabetes-prevention/preventing-diabetes-full-story/

 

Seniors and Malnutrition

old_malnutritionJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

In order to support healthy aging, retain both physical and mental wellness and manage chronic disease, eating well as we grow older is critical. The diagnosis of malnutrition, which can be described as “insufficient food intake, as compared with nutrition requirements,” affects our most vulnerable populations, the very young and the elderly. Malnutrition among mentally competent seniors, who visit hospital emergency rooms nearly 20 million times each year, is startlingly high and a cause for increasing concern. According to The National Resource Centre on Nutrition, Physical Activity and Aging, one in four older Americans currently suffers from poor nutrition. Addressing the nutritional needs of our senior citizens represents an important public health issue, as the elderly population is expected to reach 72 million people by 2030. By 2050, fully 20% of the population will be over 65 years of age.

Research shows that malnutrition is not only prevalent, it is often misdiagnosed or unrecognized. Statistics show there may be over one million homebound seniors who are malnourished. Additionally, as many as 65% of hospitalized seniors and up to 50% of seniors living in long-term care facilities are banner_VideoMalnutritionundernourished. Malnutrition can lead to loss of weight and muscle strength, decreased immunity and mental confusion or disorientation. There are many causes of malnutrition among the elderly, who are put at higher risk for health issues when undernourished. Malnutrition is not an inevitable side effect of aging, although the aging process can promote malnutrition with potentially serious health consequences. The reasons for senior malnutrition can be attributed to physical, medical and social factors.

Physical factors may include:

  • Micronutrient deficiencies, which can lead to disease states and reduced energy to perform the tasks of daily living
  • Loss of appetite and the impaired ability to regulate food intake
  • Poor dentition, which can make chewing and swallowing food difficult
  • The inability to acquire and prepare food or feed oneself
  • Normal decrease in both taste and smell that often accompanies aging

Medical factors may include:

  • Depression, dementia and loss of cognitive abilities
  • Chronic diseases and conditions
  • Medications that may reduce appetite or negatively impact absorption and metabolism of nutrients

Social factors may include:

  • Living alone, especially for men
  • Stress and bereavement
  • Financial concerns where seniors may have to choose between food and medication or other necessities
  • Poor access to healthy food or difficulty getting to the grocery store

Uncovering signs of malnutrition at the earliest stages can help prevent later complications. If you are a senior or a caregiver, be alert for signs such as weight loss, poor wound healing, easy bruising or dental difficulties. Consult with your healthcare provider about the risks of malnutrition and the side effects of medications. Be sure to discuss nutritional supplements. Dietary changes can make a big difference, as food insecure seniors have demonstrated significantly lower intakes of vital nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, saturated fats, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. Be sure to eat, or encourage your loved one to eat, nutrient dense foods, including fresh fruits and raw veggies, nut butters, eggs and whole dairy products. Make food more exciting by experimenting with spices and herbs and encourage healthy between meal snacking. Promote good health, increased longevity and independence by identifying and addressing elderly nutritional concerns sooner rather than later.    

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high end quality supplements designed to support the nutritional needs of seniors:

Active Adult 50+ MultiVitamin (Formerly Active Senior Multivitamin)Active Adult 50+ MultiVitamin by Rainbow Light Nutrition – Designed for both men and women, this active senior multivitamin may be taken along with many prescription medications. Specially blended superfoods and essential nutrients support brain, bone, joint, heart and eye health, along with increased energy. The formula includes plant based enzymes and probiotics to support digestion and utilization of nutrients. Gluten, soy, dairy, iron, PABA and vitamin K free.  SAVE 15%

Senior SymmetrySenior Symmetry by Vitanica – Designed for women over 65 years, this hypo-allergenic, high-potency multivitamin and mineral supplement is formulated with highly absorbable premium nutrients. Depending on the dosage, this formula can complement a balanced diet, provide a well-balanced therapeutic level of nutrients or provide high-potency supplementation for chronic illness. Dairy, soy and wheat free vegetarian formulation.

Enzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for MenEnzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for Men by Enzymedica – Formulated specifically to meet the needs of men, this product provides 100% nutrient dense whole food, enzyme-activated nutrients along with guaranteed potency probiotics in support of heart health, immune function, increased energy and healthy aging. Dairy, soy and gluten free, Non-GMO formulation. Also available Enzyme Nutrition Multi-Vitamin for Women 50+.

Multi+Pro F50+Multi+Pro F50+ by Genestra – This advanced multivitamin formula, designed specifically for women over 50 years, provides support for overall health, immune function and menopausal symptoms. Proprietary probiotic strains are included for long-term maintenance of the digestive tract and immune support. Gluten and dairy free vegetarian formula. Multi+Pro M50+ formulated for men over age 50 also available.

References:
Malnutrition and Older Americans.  http://nutritionandaging.fiu.edu/aging_network/malfact2.asp
Malnutrition and aging.  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2563720/
Malnutrition Threatens Many U.S. Seniors Seen at ERs. http://consumer.healthday.com/senior-citizen-information-31/senior-citizen-news-778/seniors-malnutrition-aem-release-batch-1327-690736.html
Senior Health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/senior-health/art-20044699?pg=1