Tag Archives: Homocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations

Heart Disease Risk Not Just for Seniors

WebJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Those who typically believe that heart conditions are diseases of the aging population, may be surprised to learn that younger people aged 35-64 are putting themselves at risk of developing heart disease earlier in life. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, sedentary behavior and unhealthy eating, contribute to the development of obesity and diabetes, as well as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, all known risks for heart disease and stroke. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of all Americans have at least one of the top three risk factors for heart disease—high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a smoking habit. As the leading cause of death in the U.S., heart disease claims more lives than all forms of cancer combined.

Heart disease is a broad term used for a wide variety of symptoms and diseases related to the heart and blood vessels. These can include coronary artery disease or cardiovascular disease; heart rhythm disorders or arrhythmias; congenital heart defects; cardiomyopathy or weakened heart muscle; silent ischemia caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle; angina resulting in pain and discomfort caused by arterial spasms, insufficient flow of oxygen and nutrients or narrowing of the arteries; and atherosclerosis, the buildup of fats, cholesterol, calcium and other substances within artery walls, which can block or restrict blood flow.

High blood pressure: Currently, millions of Americans of all ages, including individuals in midlife have high blood pressure. Over time uncontrolled hypertension causes the coronary arteries to narrow and harden due to plaque buildup. This can increase the risk of clots that can block the flow of oxygen and nutrients and cause damage or death to the heart muscle, resulting in heart attack. Lifestyle changes that can help to lower and maintain healthy blood pressure levels include weight loss when needed, regular exercise, stress reduction and improved diet that limits sodium, restricts processed foods and increases whole food consumption, especially foods that contain potassium.

High cholesterol: Per the CDC, more than 100 million adults aged 20 and over have high cholesterol. Young adults with a family history of high cholesterol are mostly likely to develop this condition during their 20’s and 30’s. Startling statistics from 2014 show that more than seven percent, or one in five, U.S. children and teens have unhealthy cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels in children and teens, linked to heredity, diet, obesity and sedentary behavior, generally follows into adulthood, increasing the risk of heart disease later in life. The initial approach to reducing high cholesterol in children involves lifestyle changes, including weight loss, improved diet and increased exercise.

Smoking: While most children and adolescents have yet to try smoking, the overwhelming majority of adult smokers in the U.S. began smoking before age 18. Per the American Lung Association, cigarette smoking causes detrimental harm and significant health problems among young people. Statistics show that most new smokers are children and teens. Each day approximately 2,500 children under 18 try their first cigarette and more than 400 will become regular daily smokers. Sadly, about half will ultimately die prematurely from a smoking-related disease. Smoking causes an instant and long-term rise in blood pressure and heart rate, reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, damages blood vessels and doubles the risk of stroke. As smoking is the single most preventable cause of early death, stopping smoking is key to the management of dangerous risks to heart heath. Quitting smoking will reduce the threat of heart disease and the risk for repeat heart attacks and cuts the risk of death by heart disease by half. Stopping is never easy. However, a balanced healthy diet, regular exercise to relieve stress , proper amounts of sleep, encouragement from friends and family, and participation in a support group can all help one break the habit and enjoy a healthier lifestyle at every stage of life.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of a healthy lifestyle:

Berberine BlendBerberine Blend by Professional Supplement Center®: Berberine Blend is formulated to provide support for overall cardiovascular wellness. Specific ingredients support healthy homocysteine levels, normal blood lipid regulation, free radical neutralization and the maintenance of healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels already within the normal range. Non-GMO formulation.

Homocysteine FactorsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations®: Homocysteine Factors is formulated with active B vitamins in support of the maintenance of healthy homocysteine metabolism. High homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular problems, is associated with low levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folate. Gluten free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

Smokers CleanseSmokers Cleanse by Renew Life®: This targeted, 3-part cleansing program is specifically  formulated with select herbs and natural ingredients to support lung and respiratory health. It may also help reduce the desire to smoke, soothe bronchial passages, and support a healthy stress response to improve overall wellbeing. Gluten and soy free formulation.

Ubiquinol-QH 200 mgUbiquinol QH 200 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This active form of CoQ10 provides strong antioxidant protection and supports cellular energy metabolism and cardiovascular health. Ubiquinol supports healthy ejection fraction and mitral valve function, supporting overall physical activity and quality of life. Gluten free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

Hawthorne Max-VHawthorne Max-V by Douglas Laboratories®: Used traditionally for centuries, hawthorne extract is now recognized for its cardioprotective benefits, which include support for healthy heart and circulatory function. Free of gluten, yeast, soy, dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

ProOmega LDLPro Omega LDL by Nordic Naturals®: This product is formulated with bioavailable CoQ10, EPA, DHA and red yeast rice in support of nutritional maintenance for total cardiovascular health. Third party tested to be free of heavy metals and environmental toxins. Gluten, dairy and artificial color and flavor free. Non-GMO formulation.

References:
Heart Disease: It Can Happen at Any Age. https://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/index.html
How High Blood Pressure Can Lead to a Heart Attack. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/health-threats-from-high-blood-pressure/how-high-blood-pressure-can-lead-to-a-heart-attack
10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974
High Cholesterol in Children? It’s All Too Common. https://www.everydayhealth.com/high-cholesterol/symptoms/high-cholesterol-in-young-people/
Tobacco Use among Children and Teens. https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/tobacco-use-among-children.html
Smoking and Cardiovascular Disease. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/smoking-and-cardiovascular-disease

Nutrients for Healthy Brain Function

BrainFunctionJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Along with concern over the ability to continue living independently, many seniors are apprehensive about maintaining mental acuity. Most individuals are aware that some degree of forgetfulness and cognitive decline is considered normal with aging. However, cognitive decline greater than what is expected for one’s age and educational level is indeed cause for apprehension, because with age we become increasingly susceptible to chronic and debilitating brain diseases. Although the normal process of brain atrophy occurs even in cognitively healthy persons, the atrophy occurs more rapidly in persons who have cognitive decline that progresses to Alzheimer’s disease.

Growing research has demonstrated the beneficial impact of nutrition as a preventive strategy for reduced risk of cognitive decline and for maintenance of executive function. Executive function is defined as a set of mental skills that enables one to get things done, manage time, pay attention, switch focus, plan, organize, and multitask. Recognizing and reducing the factors that contribute to brain atrophy may be one strategy to slow the process of neurodegeneration. In older adults, research has underscored the potential impact of nutritional factors and individual micronutrients on the brain and cognitive function. Subclinical deficiencies commonly seen in the general population, and seniors in particular, include the B vitamins, folate, B12 and B6.

Science shows that elevated blood levels of homocysteine is one factor that contributes to brain atrophy, as well as to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is a chemical byproduct of normal protein metabolism found to some degree in everyone’s bloodstream. When homocysteine levels are abnormally high, there’s an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hardening of the arteries, isolated systolic hypertension, blood clots, and dementia, factors which may ultimately lead to heart attacks, strokes and Alzheimer’s disease. High homocysteine levels may be attributed to genetics, certain medications, kidney disease, and thyroid hormone insufficiency, as well as B vitamin and folate deficiencies.

While it remains unclear whether high homocysteine levels are the cause or the effect of disease, elevated levels are recognized as being associated with brain atrophy, dementia, depression, and Alzheimer’s. Folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are all involved in the break down and conversion of homocysteine into methionine, a protein building block. Increasing intake of these vitamins may lower blood levels of homocysteine. Folate can be found green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, most beans and fortified foods. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products, seafood, fortified cereals and enriched soy or rice milks. Good sources of B6 include beans, poultry, dark leafy greens and some fruits. A daily multivitamin can help ensure adequate intake of these important vitamins.

There is growing support for the premise that optimal B vitamin status may prevent, slow or even reverse deterioration in memory and other mental capacities important to quality of life in older individuals. Folate, B6 and B12 may function to preserve and protect the integrity of the central nervous system through its role in the prevention of vascular disease. In addition to the B vitamins, vitamins C and D are key to optimal brain health and function. Vitamin C is essential to the production of neurotransmitters that affect the ability to focus, concentrate, and remember. They also control mood, sleep, cravings, addictions, and more.

As a cofactor necessary for serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine production, vitamin C is essential for a positive mood. A potent antioxidant, vitamin C helps to protect the brain from oxidative stress and free radical damage. A meta-analysis of studies found that a diet rich in vitamins C and E was linked to a 20-25% decrease in Alzheimer’s risk. Vitamin C acts as a powerful detoxifier that helps to remove heavy metal accumulation from the brain. By helping to build collagen that keeps arteries flexible, vitamin C improves blood flow, delivering increased oxygen and nutrients to properly nourish the brain. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries and watermelon, tomatoes, bell peppers and cruciferous vegetables, especially when eaten raw.

Vitamin D micronutrient deficiency has reached epic proportions, affecting an estimated 77% of Americans. Pre-hormone vitamin D is necessary for normal brain development in utero, as well as throughout childhood. Vitamin D receptors are wide spread in brain tissue, and biologically active Vitamin D has been shown to be neuroprotective, aiding the clearance of amyloid plaques seen in Alzheimer’s. Vitamin D activates and deactivates enzymes in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and nerve growth. Studies suggest that vitamin D protects neurons and reduces damaging inflammation.

A study led by neuroscientist David Llewellyn of the University of Cambridge assessed the correlation between vitamin D levels and cognitive function in 1,700 men and women aged 65 and older. Those deficient in vitamin D exhibited slower information-processing speed, and were up to four times more likely to be cognitively impaired as compared with people with optimum vitamin D levels. Research shows it may be difficult to get sufficient vitamin D from dietary sources alone. Those who are not getting 15-30 minutes of sunshine on their torso a minimum of three times a week, would be well advised to supplement with vitamin D for brain health and overall wellness.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids are vital for the maintenance of normal brain development and function throughout life. Low levels of omega-3’s may accelerate brain aging and contribute to deficits in brain function. Fish oil is found to be effective in reducing inflammation in the blood and tissues. Promising studies suggest that fish oil may help relieve mental fatigue and stress and may help women to reduce the risk of developing depression. Research suggests that those with mild cognitive impairment or mild declines in brain function may benefit the most from fish oil supplementation. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends omega-3 fatty acids as a possible defense against Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products to support brain and overall health:

Pro Methyl BalancePro Methyl Balance by Professional Supplement Center®: On SALE! Pro Methyl Balance is formulated to provide high levels of highly active and bioavailable forms of folate and vitamin B12 in support of homocysteine management, neurological function, and a healthy inflammatory response. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Homocysteine FactorsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides the highly bioavailable folate Metafolin®, activated vitamin B6, anhydrous betaine, and vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin, in support of healthy homocysteine metabolism. Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

B-Complex with...B Complex with Metafolin® by Douglas Laboratories®: This comprehensive B vitamin supplement provides highly bioavailable B vitamins plus intrinsic factor, a nutrient necessary for optimal B12 absorption. Gluten, soy, dairy, yeast and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Vitamin D3 5,000 IUVitamin D3 5,000 IU by Professional Supplement Center®: On SALE! This product supplies highly bioavailable vitamin D3 in support of proper nervous system function, healthy cardiovascular function and a normal immune response. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

ProDHA Eye 1000 mgProDHA™ 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals®:  On SALE! This high potency formula provides an essential nutrient for brain health, healthy mood, cognitive function, and the structural integrity of the central nervous system. Third party tested for heavy metals and toxins. Gluten, dairy and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation.

Buffered Vitamin CBuffered Vitamin C by Integrative Therapeutics®: One serving supplies one gram of vitamin C buffered with magnesium and calcium in support of healthy skin, collagen production, and connective tissue and bone health. Gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, yeast, and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

Vitamin E (with...Vitamin E with Mixed Tocopherols by Pure Encapsulations®: This powerful antioxidant supplement plays a beneficial role in cellular respiration, mitochondrial function, blood vessel health and protein metabolism. Artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO formulation.

References:
B vitamins, cognition and aging: a review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11682586
Bruno, Gene, MS, MHS, Rh. B Vitamins and Cognition, Vitamin Retailer, Dec. 2017.
Nutrition for the ageing brain: Towards evidence for an optimal diet. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1568163716301027
Three of the B Vitamins: Folate, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-b/
Homocysteine and MTHFR Mutations. Relation to Thrombosis and Coronary Artery Disease. http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/111/19/e289
Does Vitamin D Improve Brain Function? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/does-d-make-a-difference/
Vitamin D and cognitive function. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22536767

 

Homocysteine Levels – Do You Care?

careaboutlevelsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Those who have never heard of homocysteine may wonder why they should care about their homocysteine levels. After all, isn’t homocysteine simply a naturally occurring amino acid produced by the body as part of the critical methylation process? Well, yes, but it is not one of the twenty standard amino acids considered to be the building blocks of protein. Methylation is essential for cellular function, DNA replication, embryonic growth and cellular aging. Improper methylation leads to high homocysteine levels, and that spells trouble for long term health. Homocysteine is not found in the diet but is a byproduct created during protein metabolism, an excess of which is implicated in a higher risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease and viewed as a potential predictor of Alzheimer’s disease.

When dietary proteins are metabolized, they are broken down into individual amino acids including methionine. Methionine is further broken down in multiple processes that produce homocysteine. Like most bodily processes, homocysteine metabolism is highly complex. Homocysteine is removed from the body in two ways. First by methylation, which essentially recycles homocysteine back into methionine. This process requires adequate nutrients and cofactors, specifically vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. Secondly, with the assistance of enzymes and folic acid, homocysteine can be transformed into the amino acid cysteine, a crucial contributing factor in the production of the antioxidant glutathione.

Possible causes of high homocysteine levels include family history, diabetes, kidney and chronic inflammatory diseases, long term medications, such as birth control pills and drugs for diabetes and high cholesterol, high caffeine and alcohol intake, smoking and poor nutrition. Normal homocysteine levels fall between 4 -15 micromoles/liter. Optimal levels are below 10 -12; moderate levels 15 -30; intermediate 30 -100; and greater than 100 is considered severe. Blood levels of homocysteine are a very good indicator of overall health status. High levels of homocysteine contribute to:

  • Enhanced free radical oxidation and advanced cellular aging.
  • Direct damage to arterial walls, leading to thickening commonly known as atherosclerosis.
  • Higher tendency to form blood clots, increasing stroke risk.
  • Significantly lowered blood levels of nitric oxide, crucial to maintaining flexible arterial walls.
  • Weakened immune system when conversion of homocysteine to cysteine for glutathione production is inefficient.
  • Increased production of inflammatory chemicals that can cause chronic inflammation.
  • Significantly increased risk of chronic health conditions.
  • Increased risk of early miscarriage, premature birth and serious pregnancy complications.
  • Adverse effects on brain processes, hindered brain function and increased risk of depression.

There is good news, however, in that lifestyle changes, particularly dietary improvements and a higher intake of folate, vitamins B12, B6, B2 and zinc, can be very effective in normalizing plasma homocysteine levels. Dietary improvements can include eating more high fiber, high antioxidant vegetables and fruits, consuming only healthy fats, adding in foods high in folate, B vitamins and zinc, and limiting consumption of conventionally raised animal products, caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Testing can determine the necessary dietary changes, as well as the correct supplementation regime. As homocysteine is a key marker for disease development that determines longevity and health throughout life, in the future expect to see a higher appreciation for the importance of folate, B12 and B6 to human health.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements to support healthy homocysteine levels and overall good health:

Glycogenics®Glycogenic® by Metagenics® – Glycogenics® advanced formulation provides a balanced blend of high potency B vitamins along with supportive nutrients in support of healthy homocysteine metabolism, energy metabolism and a healthy stress response. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Homocysteine FactorsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations – This product supplies folate as Metafolin®, a naturally occurring, universally metabolized, directly usable form, along with vitamins B12 and B6 in support of promoting healthy homocysteine metabolism. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Methyl Factors ...Methyl Factors by BioGenesis Nutraceuticals™ – This exclusive professional formula provides vitamins B6, B12 and folate in a unique liquid form in support of optimal homocysteine levels for cardiovascular health and proper neurological function.

 

TMG - PowderTMG Powder by Bio-Nutritional Formulas – This 99% pure powdered trimethylglycine product provides naturally sourced betaine made from beets. As a natural source of methyl groups, TMG supports the conversion of homocysteine to methionine in support of cardiovascular health and longevity. Free of binders and fillers.

References:
Methylation and Homocysteine. http://www.foodforthebrain.org/alzheimers-prevention/methylation-and-homocysteine.aspx
The Importance of Homocysteine. http://nurse-practitioners-and-physician-assistants.advanceweb.com/sharedresources/advancefornp/resources/DownloadableResources/NP050106_p31PatHandout.pdf
Homocysteine. http://www.wiley.com/college/boyer/0470003790/cutting_edge/homocysteine/homocysteine.htm
Homocysteine, Diet and Cardiovascular Diseases. http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/99/1/178
Dietary strategies for lowering homocysteine concentrations. http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/71/6/1448.full