Tag Archives: inflammation

The Broad-Spectrum Benefits of Lipoic Acid

Posted on December 16, 2016 by | Comments Off on The Broad-Spectrum Benefits of Lipoic Acid

lipoicacidJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Lipoic acid (LA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant compound synthesized in small amounts by the body and otherwise obtained through diet and supplementation. Because LA is both water and fat soluble, it is readily absorbed into cells, tissues and organ systems, giving it a distinct advantage over other antioxidants. In its role as a potent and effective antioxidant, LA protects against free radicals, reduces oxidative stress and is believed to help regenerate other antioxidants, including reduced glutathione and vitamins C and E. Per the National Institutes of Health, LA has therapeutic potential beyond its value as a potent biological antioxidant.

LA serves as a coenzyme that aids in the conversion of macronutrients into cellular energy, supports the mitigation and chelation of heavy metals, and is widely recognized in Europe, where it has been used for more than 50 years to relieve symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy and retinopathy. In addition to its critical roles in mitochondrial energy metabolism, detoxification, and diabetes-related support, LA is utilized to improve age-associated cardiovascular, cognitive and neuromuscular deficits. Currently, trials are underway to determine whether LA may be an appropriate treatment for the prevention of vascular disease, hypertension, chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome.

Antioxidant activity – The ability to boost or recycle other antioxidants, particularly glutathione, enhances LA’s own antioxidant benefits. Often referred to as the master antioxidant, glutathione is critical to disease prevention, as well as cellular and immune health. Restoring glutathione blood levels helps to improve the functionality of immune cells, such as T cells and lymphocytes.

Diabetes – High glucose levels associated with insulin resistance contribute to increased production of free radicals and higher levels of oxidative stress. This increased level of free radicals can impair insulin-stimulated glucose transport and the activation of insulin receptors. The significance of oxidative stress in diabetes complications including polyneuropathy is now recognized by the American Diabetes Association. LA is used extensively in Germany to potentially prevent peripheral neuropathy in those with diabetes and to provide relief from symptoms of pain, burning and numbness associated with the condition.

Heavy metal chelation – Because LA has recognized metal chelating activity, it is believed to help protect the body from toxic environmental, industrial and dietary contaminants, including arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. By acting as a chelating agent and bonding to heavy metals, LA assists the body’s detoxification processes.

Neuroprotection – As LA is readily absorbed and can cross cellular and blood brain barriers, it can reach all areas of the brain nerve cells, potentially preventing free radical damage to the neurological system. Its ability to regenerate the antioxidant glutathione helps to promote healthy nerve function. New data suggests that LA may help to guard against Alzheimer’s disease by helping to increase the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter released by nerve cells that has been found to be deficient in patients with Alzheimer’s.

Inflammation – Elevated levels of oxidative stress contribute to the chronic inflammation behind many age-related and degenerative diseases. LA has been studied for its antioxidant properties, and is well known inhibitor of proinflammatory signaling pathways.

Eye Health – In addition to eating a nutrient dense diet to support eye and overall health, studies have shown that LA may help to control age-related eye disorders. By reducing the oxidative stress that can damage ocular nerves, LA may help to control symptoms of eye-related disorders, such as vision loss, macular degeneration, cataracts, retinal damage and glaucoma.

Typically found in small amounts in animal and plant foods, dietary sources of LA include organ meats, spinach, broccoli and brewer’s yeast. Because dietary LA is bound to the amino acid lysine, which is bound to protein, it appears to have a minimal effect on the overall availability of the antioxidant in the body. A healthy body may synthesize adequate amounts of LA, however, those fighting illness, chronic disease, or the effects of advancing age, may benefit from supplementing with free form lipoic acid that is not bound to protein. For greater bioavailability, supplemental LA should be taken between meals.

As always, consult your healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplements if you are pregnant, nursing, have a health condition or are taking medications.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other fine quality supplements to support overall health and wellness:

Alpha Lipoic Acid...Alpha Lipoic Acid by Pure Encapsulations –  One capsule provides 400 mg of alpha lipoic acid in support of free radical protection, healthy glucose metabolism, nerve health, and healthy vascular function. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Alpha lipoic Acid...Alpha Lipoic Acid by Now Foods 30% OFF – This highly absorbable formulation provides 600 mg of alpha lipoic acid per capsule in support of proper glucose metabolism, cardiovascular function, and healthy neural tissues. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Lipoic AcidLipoic Acid 200 mg by Integrative Therapeutics – Each vegetarian capsule provides 200 mg of alpha lipoic acid to provide free radical damage protection and support reduced oxidative stress. Gluten, soy and dairy free vegetarian formula.

 

Lipoic Acid PlusLipoic Acid Plus by Biotics Research – This product supplies 100 mg of alpha lipoic acid along with vitamin C in support of normal mitochondrial function, heavy metal chelation, and cardiovascular health. Gluten and dairy free formulation.

 
References:
Mercury toxicity and antioxidants: Part 1: role of glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of mercury toxicity. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12495372
Alpha-lipoic acid as a dietary supplement: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2756298/
The Nuclear Factor NF-kB Pathway in Inflammation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2882124/
Food Sources of Alpha-Lipoic Acid. http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/food-sources-alphalipoic-acid-1552.html

 

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Fight Chronic Inflammation with Nutrition

Posted on July 28, 2016 by | Comments Off on Fight Chronic Inflammation with Nutrition

InflammationFoodJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

The body’s truly amazing inflammatory response can be considered both a friend and a foe. Acute inflammation can begin within seconds of an injury or pathogenic invasion and involves an influx of white blood cells – the body’s first responders that seek to attack and destroy injurious pathogens and initiate the healing process. Once the threat is neutralized, anti-inflammatory compounds move in to complete the course of healing. An inflammatory response that turns on and off as needed signifies a healthy, well balanced immune system. Chronic inflammation happens when the body overcompensates, sending an inflammatory response to a perceived threat when an inflammatory response is not required, and leaving the immune response on high alert. This misguided and unfocused immune response can result in attacks on healthy cells and internal organs, opening the door for illness and disease. Unresolved, low-grade chronic inflammation is believed to be at the core of a wide range of chronic conditions.

While often symptomless until a loss of bodily function occurs, slow simmering chronic inflammation stokes the fires of a variety of conditions including metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, cancer, depression, and unrelieved chronic pain, as well as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Inflammation triggers can include genetics, obesity, chronic stress, poor nutrition, dysbiosis, allergens, pollution, a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol abuse and smoking. Because the Standard American Diet (SAD) relies heavily on processed and manufactured foods and refined sugar, flour and oils, many of us live in a pro-inflammatory state of health. Optimizing nutrition with anti-inflammatory foods, eliminating toxins, reducing stress, staying hydrated, exercising, and prioritizing sleep are all ways to rein in chronic inflammation.

Support for a normal inflammatory response remains at the center of a healthy, pain-free life. In addition to healthy lifestyle habits, one of the best ways to quell inflammation is through a nutrient dense diet. Studies have identified certain foods that can either inflame or douse the fires of uncontrolled chronic inflammation. Inflammatory foods to avoid include fried foods, soda, refined carbs, and red and processed meats. A steady diet of these foods burdens the body with free radicals and, in turn, can lead to a shortened lifespan. Gluten, dairy, soy and other known dietary irritants may also result in inflammation in those with sensitivities or allergies. Anti-inflammatory foods include leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, olive oil, cruciferous vegetables, mushrooms, tomatoes, berries, cherries and oranges. Along with Tulsi and Matcha teas, spices such as turmeric, rosemary, ginger, and cloves pack a powerful anti-inflammatory punch and are very effective at subduing the inflammatory response.

Given the proper nutrients, the body has the ability to put out the fires of inflammation. Dietary components can either trigger or prevent inflammation from taking hold in your body. Choosing the right foods may help reduce the risk of illness, and improve mood and overall quality of life, while choosing the wrong foods could accelerate inflammatory disease processes. When the body lacks essential and critical nutrients, it is unable to function properly and cannot keep inflammation in check.

To help reduce inflammation:

  • Focus on your diet. High-glycemic index foods, such as snack foods, refined carbs and sugar laden foods, raise inflammatory markers along with blood sugar. Avoiding fried foods is key to reducing free radical formation believed to be at the root of low-grade inflammation. Following a largely plant based diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which has lots of veggies, fruits, fish, whole grains, healthy oils and moderate amounts of red wine, will provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, which help to curb inflammation. The best advice is to eat real whole foods, especially foods high in antioxidants and phytonutrients.
  • Strive for a healthy weight. Excess body fat contributes to insulin resistance, which leads to high blood glucose levels known to cause inflammation that can damage blood vessels and organs. Keeping insulin levels low is key to preventing chronic inflammation.
  • Reduce your toxic burden that creates free radicals. As much as possible, switch to natural cleaning and beauty products to reduce toxic exposure. Choose organic fruits and veggies when you can. Foods such as garlic and onions help to detoxify the body. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts, help to maximize your phytonutrient intake and increase your body’s ability to detoxify.
  • Take a breather. High stress and anxiety levels increase inflammatory activity. Studies show that people who suffer from chronic stress or long-term anxiety also experience high levels of inflammation. Gentle exercise such as yoga or tai chi, mindful breathing and relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress, which in turn cools inflammation.
  • Seriously, get moving. Between commuting, working and TV watching, the average American sits for 10 hours or more each day. Research shows that this level of inactivity is not easily offset even for those who exercise an hour each day, have a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight. If you must sit for long periods of time, get up and move around for at least 5 minutes every hour. As often as possible, limit the amount of time you spend sitting.
  • Helpful nutritional supplements include omega-3 essential fatty acids, selenium and antioxidants. Omega-3’s fight overall inflammation and help reduce oxidative stress. Ginger and turmeric are great tasting spices that have strong anti-inflammatory properties. One often overlooked nutrient is the essential mineral selenium. Selenium, especially in combination with vitamin E, offers not only antioxidant protection but also supports thyroid and immune function.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality products that support overall wellness, healthy aging and a healthy inflammatory response:

Celapro® by Metagenics®Celapro by Metagenics® – This highly concentrated blend of tissue protective phytonutrients includes D-limonene, curcumin, green tea extract and lycopene formulated to provide free radical protection and support healthy cellular aging and proper DNA replication. Gluten and dairy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Zyflamend Whole Body by New ChapterZyflamend Whole Body by New Chapter – 15% OFF This botanical formula provides a full spectrum of whole herbal extracts traditionally used to support a balanced whole body inflammatory response after exercise, relieve minor pain and soreness, and support movement and flexibility. Gluten free, Non-GMO, vegetarian formulation.

 

AntiOxidant Formula by Pure EncapsulationsAntiOxidant Formula by Pure Encapsulations – This formula offers a broad spectrum range of synergistic antioxidant nutrients to promote cellular health and enhance the body’s natural defenses against free radical damage in all bodily cells. Gluten free, soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

PGX Daily by Bioclinic NaturalsPGX Daily by Bioclinic Naturals – This clinically studied proprietary complex provides three high viscosity fibers to help normalize blood sugar levels, support balanced blood cholesterol levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Gluten and dairy free formulation.

 

Phytoganix™ by Metagenics®Phytoganix™ by Metagenics® – This powdered formula provides a highly nutritious and diverse daily supply of phytonutrients from certified organic sources in support of good nutrition and overall wellness. Gluten free, vegetarian formulation.

 

References:
Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms & Anti-Inflammatory Diet. http://www.livescience.com/52344-inflammation.html
Reducing Whole Body Inflammation? http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA401013/Reducing-Whole-Body-Inflammation.html
Put Out the Fires of Diabetes Inflammation. http://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/blog/put-out-the-fire-of-diabetes-inflammation/
A 3-Step Plan to Get Rid of Inflammation Naturally. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7079/a-3-step-plan-to-get-rid-of-inflammation-naturally.html
The Enemy Inside you. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/chronic-inflammation
10 things I Tell Anyone Who Wants to Fight Inflammation. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-14686/10-things-i-tell-anyone-who-wants-to-fight-inflammation.html

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Reducing Inflammation with Traditional Herbs

Posted on November 18, 2015 by | Comments Off on Reducing Inflammation with Traditional Herbs

Trad_HerbsJacquie Eubanks RN BSNChronic inflammation is now recognized as an underlying contributor to life altering and life threatening chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer, arthritis and cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, periodontal and autoimmune diseases. Unlike short term, rapid onset acute inflammation, which occurs when there is a an injury, infection or illness, chronic low-grade, invisible inflammation can slowly simmer for months or years, draining energy, weakening the immune system and triggering a variety of conditions and diseases. Research now shows that successful aging appears to be related to an optimal functioning of the immune system, which regulates the immune-inflammatory responses.

While there is evidence that our genetic makeup plays a role in our predisposition to acquire health problems, including the development of systemic inflammation, your health may not be genetically fixed. Lifestyle factors have a significant impact on wellness. Those who wish to cool the fires of chronic inflammation and maintain their health well into their senior years should take a hard look at their diet and other lifestyle choices. Lifestyle factors that play a part in cellular inflammation include the usual suspects — the standard American diet, smoking, obesity, chronic stress, poor sleep habits, excess alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle.

Jack Chellum, author of the book The Inflammation Syndrome, proposes that diet is largely to blame for the increase in inflammatory diseases. He suggests that “the typical western diet now contains 30 times more pro-inflammatory nutrients than it did a century ago,” and concludes “people have become more nutritionally and biochemically primed for powerful, out-of-control inflammatory reactions.” Once the body is primed for inflammation, environmental stressors or a smoking habit can trigger an onset before the body has time to cool down on its own. Mr. Chellum suggests that strong inflammation producing components include obesity, lack of regular exercise, over-exercising to the point of injury, and dietary imbalances including an inadequate intake of essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which are used by the body to manufacture anti-inflammatory compounds.

While conventional medical treatments to reduce inflammation typically address pain and suppress the immune response with OTC and pharmaceutical medications, they often come with the risk of serious side effects and don’t address the underlying disease processes.   Moderate exercise, losing weight, reducing stress, and eating better can help to squelch the body’s inflammatory response. As dietary changes and nutritional supplements can help to normalize the immune response, some are looking past the medicine cabinet and to the kitchen for natural pain relief, which can be found in anti-inflammatory foods and spices. One reason the Mediterranean eating style has become so popular is that the diet avoids inflammation-producing sugary, packaged and fried foods and includes of lots of anti-inflammatory components, including omega-3’s, colorful antioxidant fruits and veggies and moderate amounts of red wine.

Zest up your meals with these anti-inflammatory and analgesic spices and herbs:

Ginger – In Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, ginger has been used for thousands of years to restore balance or homeostasis, as it is believed that inflammation is the result of an imbalance of bodily functions. Scientific research has shown that gingerol, the active bioactive compound of ginger, has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties that can aid digestion and help reduce nausea, muscle pain and soreness. Studies have shown that ginger can help reduce the pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and may help prevent joint inflammation and damage.  

Turmeric – Utilized as both a flavoring and a traditional medicinal herb, turmeric contains powerful bioactive compounds known as curcuminoids. Curcumin, the main active ingredient found in turmeric, is a potent antioxidant and is strongly anti-inflammatory. Studies show that the anti-inflammatory compounds found in turmeric effectively block enzymes that cause pain, swelling and inflammation and positively affect arthritic symptoms by decreasing overall pain and stiffness.

Cinnamon – In addition to being a delicious ingredient of many foods and drinks, cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon helps to prevent inflammation by blocking the formation of compounds that activate the immune response and trigger inflammation. Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and to help prevent blood sugar spikes following a meal.

Garlic – Garlic contains allicin, which has many proven therapeutic benefits. Used as a medicinal since the time of the Pharaohs, garlic is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-cancer and antiviral. A long term study showed garlic’s anti-arthritic properties may help reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis. In addition, garlic has been shown to boost the immune system and have positive effects on blood pressure and blood lipids.

Pepper- Peppers, especially chili peppers, contain capsaicinoids, which have extraordinary anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-cancer benefits. Research has shown that capsaicin taken orally in whole form or as a supplement or applied topically can relieve arthritis pain, while it’s potent anti-inflammatory effects help fight chronic inflammation.

Rosemary – Rich in active compounds, rosemary is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic in nature. As an analgesic, rosemary may be taken orally to act as a natural pain reliever or applied topically, to reduce muscle and arthritis pain. In addition to its ability to reduce inflammation of the muscles, blood vessels and joints, rosemary helps protect the cardiovascular and immune systems, boosts memory and improves circulation.

Professional Supplement Center offers many safe and effective, high quality anti-inflammatory herbal formulas:

Ginger extract

Ginger Extract by Pure Encapsulations – Each capsule contains 500 mg of ginger extract standardized to contain 5% gingerols. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

 

 

Cinnamon ForceCinnamon Force™ by New Chapter – This proprietary cinnamon blend contains both cinnamon bark and supercritical cinnamon extract in a whole food, naturally gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

 

 

C3 Curcumin Complex

C3 Curcumin Complex by Designs for Health – One capsule contains 400 mg of Curcumin C3 Complex® standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids. Gluten and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.  

 

 

Rosemary

Rosemary by Herb Pharm – This certified organic rosemary oil is hand-harvested and freshly extracted from rosemary leaf tips. Plant based 100% organic formula.

 

 

Super Garlic 6000

Super Garlic 6000® by Metagenics – This super concentrated raw garlic supplement yields 6000 mcg of allicin per tablet. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

 

 

Curcumin 500 with Bioperine®Curcumin 500 with Bioperine® by Pure Encapsulations – Each capsule delivers 500 mg of turmeric, standardized to contain 95% curcuminoids plus Bioperine® black pepper extract standardized to contain 95% piperine. Research shows that black pepper has the potential to enhance bioavailability and promote absorption of curcuminoids. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.

References:
The genetics of chronic inflammatory diseases. http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/content/18/R1/R101.full
15 top Anti-Inflammatory Herbs and Spices. http://studiobotanica.com/15-top-anti-inflammatory-herbs-spices/
Cooking Up Relief: Turmeric and Other Anti-Inflammatory Spices. http://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/turmeric-and-anti-inflammatory-
Chronic Inflammation: Reduce It to Protect Your Health. http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/articles/2009/11/02/chronic-inflammation-reduce-it-to-protect-your-health
The Enemy Inside You. http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/chronic-inflammation
Chronic Inflammation: The Silent Enemy Burning Within. http://womensinternational.com/connections/inflammation.html
Inflammation and genetics: an insight in the centenarian model. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21846209
A Genetic Script for Disease? https://www.gluegrant.org/script.htm

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