Tag Archives: MSM Powder by Pure Encapsulations

What’s Your Pain Management Strategy?

PainStrategyJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Often perceived as an age-related condition, chronic pain is linked to restricted mobility, lost productivity, anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life. It’s true that as people age, they are more likely to experience chronic pain, but pain is neither inevitable nor limited to the aging population. In fact, chronic pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. Chronic pain, defined as pain on most days or every day of the past six months, afflicts approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population, or 50 million American adults. Another eight percent, or more than 19 million adults, experience high-impact or severe chronic pain that frequently limits work or life activities over the same time period.

Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic pain has negative consequences on individuals, their families and society as a whole. While pain is a component of many chronic health conditions, chronic pain itself is now viewed as a health concern rather than a symptom of other ailments. Chronic pain has a distinct pathology, causing changes throughout the nervous system that may worsen over time. Pain can result from a combination of biological, psychological and social factors that require comprehensive approaches to treatment and management. While chronic pain is common in older adults, numerous studies have failed to find a direct relationship between pain and aging.

While many older adults attempt to ignore pain and try to “tough it out” in order to avoid prescription pain medications, ongoing pain can have powerful negative effects, particularly insomnia, distress, disability and depression. As such, good pain management is critically important, as stoicism regarding pain does not diminish its consequences over time nor help one to better tolerate it. Research does show that people often look to heathy living strategies for pain relief, as well as nonmedical approaches for pain management. Dependent upon one’s condition and the location and severity of the pain, there are some therapies that may benefit some people.

Complementary approaches for pain management

  • Physical therapy can be an effective first step in addressing common sources of pain, including the back, knees, and shoulders. A therapist works with you to create individualized exercises, stretches and body alignment positions that help relax tight muscles, decrease back and joint pain and improve range of motion.
  • Therapeutic massage can help ease pain by relieving muscle tension, stress and anxiety. Massage is particularly helpful for back and neck pain or during injury recovery.
  • Yoga or tai chi incorporate gentle movement with breath control and meditation to relax, stretch and strengthen the muscles. These techniques have been shown to help manage pain caused by a variety of conditions, such as headaches, arthritis or lingering injuries.
  • Keep moving. Gentle on the body aerobic activities like swimming, walking or cycling can help to break the cycle of pain and improve mobility in conditions including fibromyalgia and arthritis.
  • Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness and breathing exercises, help to restore a sense of control and wellbeing by helping to normalize the stress response. Chronic stress, along with elevated stress hormones, can contribute to or worsen muscle tension and pain.
  • Science backed supplements with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that have shown to be beneficial in painful arthritic conditions include SAM-e, boswellia, turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, alpha-lipoic acid, magnesium, MSM and hyaluronic acid.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of optimal health and wellbeing:

Advanced Pain...Advanced Pain Formula by Diamond Formulations: ON SALE This formula provides specific ingredients that support healthy joint function, encourage a normal stress and inflammatory response, support muscular relaxation to aid restful sleep and help relieve symptoms associated with minor aches and pains. Free of wheat, yeast, soy, gluten, dairy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, animal products and artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives. Non-GMO  formulation.

Magnesium BalanceMagnesium Balance by Professional Supplement Center®:          ON SALE This proprietary complex provides a blend of magnesium in chelated forms in support of healthy muscle and nerve function, cardiovascular health and energy production. Free of wheat, gluten, corn, yeast, soy, animal and dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs and artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives. Non-GMO formulation.

MSM powderMSM Powder by Pure Encapsulations®: Each serving of MSM Powder provides 3 g of patented MSM, a naturally occurring sulfur compound that promotes healthy joints and assists in maintaining connective tissue health. Gluten free, Non-GMO, hypoallergenic formulation.

Curcumin Pro-95Curcumin Pro-95 by Professional Supplement Center®:                   ON SALE Curcumin Pro-95 features BCM-95®, a 100% pure standardized turmeric extract and essential oils of turmeric rhizome. This natural composition optimizes bioavailability and reflects true turmeric identity to deliver optimal health benefits that include antioxidant cell-protective activity, relief of minor aches and pains, and support for cellular, joint, organ and brain health.

Those who are taking medication or have a medical condition should consult their healthcare provider before taking supplements containing turmeric.

References:
Chronic Pain is a Chronic Condition, Not Just a Symptom. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3396080/
Prevalence of Chronic Pain and High-Impact Chronic Pain Among Adults — United States, 2016. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6736a2.htm
Aging: Are these 4 myths complicating care? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4356472/
8 non-invasive pain relief techniques that really work. https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/8-non-invasive-pain-relief-techniques-that-really-work

 

Prescription Drugs – Proceed with Caution

CautionJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Despite overwhelming evidence that adherence to a healthy lifestyle plays a critical role in preventing, managing and reducing disease risks, less than 3% of American adults actually follow general principles of healthy living—a nutritious diet, moderate daily exercise, weight management and avoiding smoking. One problem contributing to this seeming lackadaisical attitude towards general wellbeing is that people are led to believe that there’s a pill to cure every ill. So much so that 55% of Americans take 4 different prescription medications daily, far more than citizens of any other country, and nearly 70% take at least one prescribed drug.

All drugs, whether prescription or over the counter, can have harmful side effects. Although some side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and muscle aches, are considered minor; allergic reactions, heart palpitations, internal bleeding and organ failure may also occur. Many take additional medications to counteract side effects, while others who find side effects intolerable discontinue medications against medical advisement. There’s no doubt that certain medications are essential and enhance the quality of life. Others are lifesaving, treating potentially life-threatening diseases and infections. Some are life-improving, helping to manage chronic or debilitating conditions. Still others are life-prolonging, treating cancers and rare conditions.

Per Thomas J. Moore, senior scientist for drug safety and policy at the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, barring overdoses and misuse, there is no formal process for quantifying injuries, hospitalizations, or deaths caused by therapeutic drug use. While consumers and healthcare providers are encouraged to report adverse reactions to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency says its unable to use this reporting data to quantify overall deaths that result from taking prescribed pharmaceuticals as directed.

It would appear that simply taking prescribed drugs as instructed may potentially expose an individual to significant risks. Moore and other researchers, who closely evaluated hospital admission studies over several decades, reported their findings in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Recent analysis estimates adverse drug reactions result in 1.5 to 2.7 million hospital admissions each year. Sadly, approximately 128,000 Americans die each year from taking medications properly prescribed by physicians. Other research suggests that half of those events were preventable.

When medication is clearly necessary, always read the safely information that lists known side effects of the prescription. Some individuals may not experience any side effects. Those who do should report all adverse reactions to their healthcare provider, as there may be alternative medications that work equally well with fewer side effects. Those taking multiple medications are advised to be particularly cautious and weigh the benefits of the medications versus any potential harm. In certain situations, paying serious attention to improving lifestyle habits may provide a non-pharmaceutical intervention to improving health status, especially for borderline conditions such as prediabetes, osteopenia, prehypertension or even mild depression.

Of course, prevention is always the best medicine. Healthy nutrition and lifestyle habits are known to greatly reduce the likelihood of developing chronic diseases. Oftentimes borderline conditions and minor health issues can be improved with dedication to taking better care of one’s health, improving one’s diet, and nutritional supplementation. Regular exercise is key to weight maintenance and maintaining cardiac health, as well as healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Although it’s not easy to change unhealthy behaviors, the rewards of a healthier life today and the ability to function independently later in life are more than worth the effort required to improve long-term health.

-Abundant research and a clear consensus support healthy lifestyle strategies in the prevention, management, and reduction of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors.

-To address prehypertension, cut back on sodium, lose excess weight, exercise regularly, control stress, drink alcohol in moderation, and don’t smoke. The DASH diet is recommended for those with hypertension to help lower systolic blood pressure.

-Weight loss if appropriate, a healthy diet and exercise can reduce blood sugar levels in prediabetes. If you are carrying excess weight and have been unsuccessful with weight loss, consider a formal weight loss program for diabetes prevention.

-Back and joint pain can often be improved with physical therapy and appropriate exercise, such as yoga, tai chi, swimming and gentle stretching. Supplements such as MSM, hyaluronic acid and curcumin support joint tissue health and reduce inflammation.

-Weight bearing exercise can slow the progression of osteopenia and encourage the body to build new bone cells. A whole food diet filled with calcium-rich foods is also advisable. Sufficient vitamin D is needed for the body to absorb and utilize calcium and other minerals.

-Exercise therapy, as well as various forms of talk therapy, are valid non-pharmacological primary treatments for mild depression. Exercise temporarily boosts mood enhancing endorphins and may encourage positive rewiring in the brain. Certain supplements such as omega-3 essential fatty acids, B vitamins and 5-HTP may also be beneficial for mood support.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements to support overall health and a healthy lifestyle:

MSM powderMSM powder by Pure Encapsulations®: This naturally occurring patented formula provides 99.7% pure MSM, plus elemental sulfur, in support of healthy joints and connective tissues. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Hyaluronic AcidHyaluronic Acid by Pure Encapsulations®: This naturally occurring compound supports healthy joint lubrication and joint function. Additionally, hyaluronic acid supports skin hydration, nutrient delivery and proper cellular communication. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

Curcumin 500 with...Curcumin 500 with Bioperine® by Pure Encapsulations®: Curcumin supports a healthy inflammatory response and supports healthy liver, colon, musculoskeletal and cellular function. Bioperine®, a black pepper extract, has the potential to enhance the bioavailability and promote the absorption of curcumin. If taking medications, consult a healthcare provider before supplementing with curcumin.

5HTP Supreme5HTP Supreme™ by Designs for Health: As a precursor to serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter, 5HTP may help to promote healthy mood and reduce food cravings. This formula includes an activated form of vitamin B6 for overall neurotransmitter support. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Active B-ComplexActive B Complex by Integrative Therapeutics: A highly bioavailable complex providing a full complement of B vitamins, this formula naturally boosts brain chemicals that improve mood, energy, concentration, visual clarity and alertness. Gluten, soy, dairy and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
Less than 3 Percent of Americans Live a Healthy Lifestyle. http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2016-03-22/less-than-3-percent-of-americans-live-a-healthy-lifestyle
Over Prescribed America. http://www.topmastersinhealthcare.com/drugged-america/
Death by Prescription. http://health.usnews.com/health-news/patient-advice/articles/2016-09-27/the-danger-in-taking-prescribed-medications
What are possible side effects of a drug and where can I find the most current information about my drug? https://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/Transparency/Basics/ucm194959.htm
Prevention and Treatment of Osteopenia. https://www.osteoporosis-health.com/conditions/osteopenia/prevention-and-treatment-osteopenia
Why it’s hard to change unhealthy behavior – and why you should keep trying. www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/why-its-hard-to-change-unhealthy-behavior-and-why-you-should-keep-trying
Lifestyle strategies for cardiovascular risk reduction. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25092580
Prehypertension: Does it really matter? https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/prehypertension-does-it-really-matter

 

Natural Anti-Inflammatories for Pain Relief

Pain_ReliefJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

There are actually millions of us who experience the occasional discomfort of acute pain, such as a seemingly sudden back ache or muscle soreness after exercise, which may be a normal consequence of strain or overuse. Then there are those who have steady, constant and sometimes debilitating chronic pain, which can be the result of an accident or health conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or a serious infection. Pain is largely the result of inflammation, which is part of the body’s natural immune response to injury or disease as defenses kick in to protect and heal the body. Typically, pro-inflammatory cytokines play a well established essential role in the inflammatory and neuropathic pain signaling processes.  

For relief of inflammation-induced sporadic pain, many of us are quick to pop an OTC anti-inflammatory product that is generally recognized as safe. Alternately, severe chronic pain may necessitate diagnosis and treatment and may result in pharmaceutical prescription medications for relief, which often carry an array of possible side effects, including addiction and gastrointestinal problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, some side effects can be life threatening, including a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and acute renal failure. In fact, the National Kidney Foundation asserts that the substantial overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is directly related 10% of kidney failures each year.

Because of the real health and safety concerns of side effects regarding the long-term use of both OTC and prescription medications for chronic and degenerative pain conditions, there is a greater interest in herbal remedies and dietary supplements that can reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways in a similar pattern as NSAIDs. Alternative treatments for occasional pain might also include rest, chiropractic adjustments, massage or acupuncture and when the time is right, yoga, tai chi or other muscle strengthening exercises to reduce pain and enhance the quality of life.

Those seeking an alternative solution for temporary pain may want to consider natural anti-inflammatory compounds, which contain ingredients that have been effectively used for centuries to reduce pain and inflammation without undesirable side effects. Some may require patience for optimal results. Although non-steroidal medications can be effective, herbs and dietary supplements may offer a safer, and often an effective, alternative treatment for pain relief, especially for long-term use.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids – Research has shown that EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, are effective natural anti-inflammatory agents. The American Heart Association recommends fish oil supplements for prevention of vascular inflammation, an underlying cause of coronary artery disease. Many positive clinical studies have shown fish oil to significantly reduce joint tenderness and stiffness in arthritic persons, which may lead to a reduction in NSAID use.

Curcumin – Derived from turmeric, curcumin has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines as an effective anti-inflammatory agent. As a result of its long history and its demonstrated effect on inflammatory pathways, curcumin is considered a viable natural alternative to non-steroidal agents for pain relief and treatment of inflammation.

Pycnogenol – This maritime pine bark has also been used since ancient times for healing and reducing inflammation. Because it naturally contains a potent blend of polyphenols, pycnogenol is considered one of the most effective antioxidant compounds.

White willow bark – Similar to pycnogenol, white willow bark is one of the oldest herbal remedies for pain and inflammation. Its use dates back to ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek and Indian civilizations. White willow bark action has shown to have an efficacy similar to aspirin in that it blocks inflammatory prostaglandins, without the possible side effects of long-term aspirin use.  

MSM – Methylsulfonylmethane, an organic sulfur compound, has many therapeutic benefits. Among these is its high degree of success in treating chronic pain caused by arthritis, muscle aches, sports and personal injuries and fibromyalgia. MSM has been shown to safely and effectively fight inflammation and reduce or eliminate muscle soreness, stiffness and cramping.

As with any dietary supplement, if you are pregnant, nursing or taking medications, always consult with your health care provider prior to starting any new regimen. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have about any of our dietary supplements.  

OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720 by Metagenics – This product provides a healthy balance of highly concentrated, pure omega-3 essential fatty acids. Sourced from cold water marine lipids and produced in Norway at a licensed pharmaceutical plant, these natural lemon flavored softgels are stabilized with natural antioxidants to ensure freshness. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO formulation.

MSM powderMSM Powder by Pure Encapsulations – This patented MSM product contains 99.7% pure elemental sulfur, a naturally occurring organic compound that promotes healthy joints and provides crucial connective tissue support. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian product.

Turmero Active (K-75)Turmero™ Active (K-75) by Apex Energetics – This liquid herbal formula provides a unique source of 95% concentrated curcuminoids in an emulsified micronized structure. The formula includes black pepper extract for enhanced utilization. Easily administered by oral syringe included with product. Natural orange flavor.

Pycnogenol 100 mg
Pycnogenol® 100 mg by PhysioLogics – One rapid-release capsule delivers 100 mg of pure natural plant extract obtained from French maritime pine bark grown in southwest France. Gluten, soy and dairy free formula.

 

TraumericTraumeric by Ortho Molecular – This natural anti-inflammatory product contains a synergistic blend of standardized turmeric root extract, bromelain, quercetin and rutin, which work to limit the action of certain impeding enzymes in the inflammation pathways in order to reduce acute inflammation.

 

References:
Natural anti-inflammatory agents for pain relief. Online. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011108/
Choosing Natural Supplements for Arthritis Pain Relief. Online. http://www.healthnews.com/en/news/Choosing-Natural-Supplements-for-Arthritis-Pain-Relief/3KLokZr8H7SPvXriP7RZUd/
Pain In America. Online. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/chronic_pain/chronic_pain.htm#Is_there_any_treatment
What is inflammation? What causes inflammation. Online. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423.php#why_does_inflammation_cause_pain