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Soil, Plants and Heavy Metal Pollution

SoilPlantsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Per the World Health Organization (WHO), some natural heavy metals can enhance the quality of life, health, and wellbeing. Metals such as iron, copper, magnesium, zinc, chromium and manganese are essential for health in minuscule amounts. For example, iron is needed for blood production, oxygen transport, energy metabolism, proper immune function, and collagen and neurotransmitter synthesis; zinc aids hormone regulation and gene activity; magnesium is necessary for muscle function, strong bones and healthy teeth; copper plays a role in iron metabolism, melanin synthesis, and central nervous system function; selenium is a component of glutathione peroxidase, which protects protein, cell membranes, lipids and nucleic acids; and manganese aids energy production by breaking down fats, carbohydrates and protein.

While some elements are necessary in minute amounts for human health, others are toxic or carcinogenic, affecting the liver, kidneys and the central nervous system. Heavy metals are defined as any metallic chemical element that has a relatively high density and is toxic or poisonous at low concentrations. These include cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic, which along with air pollution, dioxins and hazardous pesticides, appear on the WHO’s list of ten chemicals of major public health concern. Highly toxic, arsenic is widely distributed throughout the environment as a naturally occurring substance, or as a result of contamination from human activity, including mining and smelting ores, the burning of fossil fuels, and previous or current use of arsenic containing pesticides.

Arsenic is found in rocks, soil, air, groundwater, and foods such as rice, grains, fruits, fruit juices and vegetables. Because arsenic is found in soil and water, it is absorbed by plants whether grown conventionally or organically. Long term exposure to high levels of arsenic can lead to chronic arsenic poisoning associated with higher rates of skin, bladder and lung cancers, as well as diabetes and pulmonary and cardiovascular disease. Per WHO, inorganic arsenic is a confirmed human carcinogen and is the most significant chemical contaminant in drinking water globally. Arsenic is found in high levels in groundwater in countries such as China, India, Mexico and the United States.

Fertilizers produced from phosphate ores are a major source of diffuse cadmium pollution. Food is the main source of cadmium intake for non-occupationally exposed people. Because insecticides, fungicides and commercial fertilizers contain cadmium that pollutes the soil, cadmium was found to be significantly higher in non-organic food crops. Crops grown in polluted soil or irrigated with polluted water, as well as meat from animals grazing on contaminated pastures, may contain increased concentrations. Studies have shown that cadmium exposure can result in high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and kidney, liver, brain, lung, and immune dysfunction.

As a neurotoxic chemical, even a small amount of mercury exposure may cause serious health problems, including heart disease and changes to the brain. Mercury exposure can have toxic effects on the nervous, immune and digestive systems, as well as deleterious effects on the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes. While mercury occurs naturally in the earth’s crust, it is released into the environment largely as a result of human activity. While some mercury is released through volcanic activity, the majority of mercury is released into the environment through coal fired power stations, residential coal burning, industrial processes, waste incineration, and precious metal mining. Toxic to the central and peripheral nervous systems, mercury is found in dental amalgam fillings, and every day products such as batteries, light bulbs, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Lead has a cumulative neurotoxic effect on multiple body systems, including the brain, liver, kidneys and skeletal system. Particularly toxic to women of child bearing age, fetuses and young children, there is no known amount of lead exposure that is considered safe. As a naturally occurring toxic metal, the widespread use of lead in gasoline, pigments, vehicle batteries, toys, cosmetics, plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, and jewelry, as well as mining, smelting, and manufacturing, has resulted in extensive environmental contamination. Lead exposure can result in a wide range of biological effects dependent upon the level and length of exposure. High levels of exposure may result in toxic effects that may cause problems in the gastrointestinal tract and joints, as well as hemoglobin synthesis and acute or chronic damage to the nervous system.

Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), heavy metal soil pollution is a serious global environmental problem that adversely affects plant growth and alters the composition and activity of soil microbial communities. Soil is essential for seed germination, and for the growth and survival of plants. Seeds are stressed by the presence of heavy metals, which, decrease germination, reduce root elongation and negatively affect protein levels. In plants, soil pollution results in oxidative damage, and altered sugar and protein metabolism, resulting in cellular damage and nutrient loss. In response to heavy metal exposure, plants have developed detoxification mechanisms. Heavy metal chelators, known as phytochelatins are synthesized from reduced glutathione, which helps plants to ameliorate the toxic effect of heavy metals.

In addition to posing serious threat to agricultural produce, the toxic accumulation of certain heavy metals in the body may compete with and replace essential minerals, which can lead to harmful health consequences to the body’s organ systems. Heavy metals can accumulate in the soft tissues of the body in concentrations sufficient to cause physiological, neurological and behavioral changes. Long term exposure may result in symptoms of muscle and joint pain, chronic fatigue, digestive and immune issues, neurological conditions, infertility and heart disease. Although the liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal system are designed to remove toxins, the body can become overwhelmed by pollution, pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Glutathione, found in all bodily cells, is a powerful antioxidant and a natural detoxifying agent. Aging, stress, poor diet, injury, and illness all contribute to low cellular levels of glutathione. However, you can help to protect the body from oxidation by supporting the production of glutathione, as glutathione is both produced and recycled within the body. Increasing the blood levels of glutathione supports immune function, reduces free radicals, optimizes detoxification, and enhances heavy metal clearance. Detoxification, as well as glutathione synthesis and recycling can be enhanced by a sulfur-rich diet, exercise, and proper supplementation.

– Glutathione on its own is not readily bioavailable. Liposomal glutathione, however, is believed to be fully absorbable. For optimal absorption and bioavailability, s-acetyl-glutathione provides the acetylated form of glutathione.

-One of the most effective ways to improve and ensure healthy levels of glutathione is by supplementing with N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), an essential amino acid and a main building block of glutathione. Those taking medications should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing with NAC.

– Be sure to get adequate levels of vitamins B6, B12, folate and betaine to support critical bodily functions, that include DNA repair, detoxification and immune health.

– Consider supplementing with liver-supportive milk thistle, as well as selenium, which supports glutathione recycling, and alpha lipoic acid for support of many bodily processes, including detoxification and energy production.

-Bioactive, pesticide and hormone free whey protein is a great source of cysteine and other amino acids that support glutathione synthesis.

– Be sure to include sulfur-rich, cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetables in your diet. Studies have shown that sulfur amino acids stimulate glutathione production and support higher glutathione levels.

-Studies suggest that moderate exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise in combination with weight training, can increase glutathione levels, which helps to boost immunity, support detoxification and enhance antioxidant defenses.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality products to support detoxification and overall health:

NAC 600 mgNAC 600 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This free form amino acid provides nutritional and antioxidant support, promotes healthy glutathione levels, and supports heavy metal detoxification by helping to reduce cadmium and mercury accumulation in the kidneys and liver. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Liposomal...Liposomal Glutathione by NuMedica: This product provides 500 mg of liposomal glutathione and activated B vitamin cofactors for optimal absorption and bioavailability in support of the immune and detoxification systems. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

S-Acetyl Glutathione...S-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy by Designs for Health®: This product provides 1 g of NAC and 200 mg of the acetylated form of glutathione for optimal absorption and bioavailability. Gluten free.

 

Metal-X-SynergyMetal-X-Synergy™ by Designs for Health®: This complex includes ingredients that work synergistically to bind to heavy metals without depleting essential minerals. This formula includes NAC, reduced glutathione and alpha lipoic acid in support of heavy metal detoxification. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Mercury DetoxMercury Detox™ by Integrative Therapeutics®: This blend of powerful ingredients includes selenium, NAC, reduced glutathione and amino acids for targeted support for heavy metal detoxification. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, preservative and artificial ingredient free formulation.

 

AntiOxidant FormulaAntiOxidant Formula by Pure Encapsulations®: This synergistic broad-spectrum formula provides antioxidant nutrients to promote cellular heath and support the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Ingredients include milk thistle, NAC, and selenium. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

 

Whey Protein...Whey Protein Concentrate by Biotics® Research: This whey protein concentrate is derived from the milk of grass fed New Zealand cows in support of detoxification, glucose metabolism and liver and gallbladder health. Gluten free.

 

Folate 5,000 PlusFolate 5,000 Plus by Pure Encapsulations®: Folate Plus provides the universally metabolized and biologically active form of folate as 5-MTHF as well as optimal levels of vitamin B6 and B12 in support of cellular, cardiovascular, neurological and psychological health. Non-GMO vegan formulation.

References:
Heavy metal pollution in soil. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289299230_Heavy_metal_pollution_in_soil
Hemoglobin and Functions of Iron. https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/hemoglobin_and_functions_of_iron/
Adverse Health Effects of Heavy Metals in Children. http://www.who.int/ceh/capacity/heavy_metals.pdf
Arsenic. https://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodborneIllnessContaminants/Metals/ucm280202.htm
Arsenic. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs372/en/
Cadmium in Drinking Water. http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/water-quality/guidelines/chemicals/cadmium.pdf
Mercury and health. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs361/en/
Lead poising and health. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs379/en/
Healthy Metals. https://publications.nigms.nih.gov/findings/mar05/popups/lead_sb.html
Effect of heavy metals on germination of seeds. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3783763/
Heavy metals toxicity in plants: An overview on the role of glutathione and phytochelatins in heavy metal stress tolerance of plants. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254629909003159
Toxicity, mechanism and health effects of some heavy metals. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4427717/

 

 

Flu Season – It’s Not Over Yet!

FluNotOverJacquie Eubanks RN BSNAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s weekly flu report, flu activity remains elevated with 36 states reporting widespread influenza activity, mainly in the southern and southeastern states. While overall activity is declining, we are clearly not out of the woods, and can expect to see several more weeks of seasonal flu activity. Influenza, a highly contagious viral respiratory illness, causes mild to severe symptoms and can result in complications for young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Largely an airborne virus, the flu easily spreads from one person to another through droplets caused by sneezing, coughing or talking. Flu viruses can survive on hands for up to an hour, and can remain active on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours, potentially transferring the virus through touch.

Those with the flu are infectious 24 hours before their own symptoms develop, and up to a week after symptoms appear. Unlike a cold, the flu comes on suddenly and tends to linger longer. Symptoms are often more severe than a typical cold and can include a runny nose, sore throat and dry cough, as well as fever, fatigue, headache, chills, and body aches. Surprisingly, the body’s immune defense system is responsible for some of the symptoms. A fever, for example, is the immune system’s way of making the body a less favorable host for bacteria and viruses, which thrive at 98.6° F. Although not everyone will feel feverish, the influenza virus causes a general feeling of exhaustion and malaise, that often requires bedrest.

You can help stop the spread of the flu by avoiding unnecessary contact with others when you are ill, completely covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, getting plenty of rest, and staying warm and well hydrated. To help prevent the flu, avoid close contact with someone who is sick, wash your hands frequently, disinfect surfaces regularly and refrain from touching your face, eyes, and mouth. Be sure to support immune and overall health by getting sufficient sleep, eating nutritiously and participating in physical activity. General healthy-living strategies help to naturally strengthen the immune system, while supporting optimal health and overall function.

Over the counter remedies can temporarily suppress symptoms, but may actually impede healing. While annoying, coughing is a productive symptom that helps clear breathing passages. Decongestants restrict flow to blood vessels in the nose and throat, but allowing the blood to flow helps to warm the infected area, enabling secretions to carry away germs. Although symptoms of fever, stuffy nose and coughing are sometimes hard to endure, they are part of the natural healing process, evidence that the immune system is battling the virus. Natural remedies that support the immune system are often helpful either for the prevention of influenza or the recovery from it.

Oscillococcinum® – Though hard to pronounce, this homeopathic taken at the first sign of illness has been shown in clinical trials to help reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms, including body aches, fever, chills, headache and fatigue. As flu comes on quickly, and Oscillo works best when taken early, it’s helpful to keep this on hand to take as quickly as possible when symptoms begin to appear.

Echinacea – This popular medicinal plant has been used for more than 400 years to treat infections and wounds. Laboratory studies suggest that echinacea contains active antiviral and antioxidant substances that support and stimulate the immune system to help fight viruses, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.

Elderberry – Used for centuries to treat respiratory illnesses and heal wounds, evidence suggests that elderberry has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-influenza properties. High in flavonols, elderberry may help to reduce sinus mucous membrane inflammation and relieve nasal congestion.

Garlic – Supported by modern science and known since ancient times for its therapeutic properties, garlic has been shown to be beneficial for respiratory, circulatory, cardiac, and immune health. Consumed regularly, garlic may aid in the prevention of the common cold or may expedite the recovery process.

Oregano Oil – Very high in antioxidants, oregano oil has been shown to combat certain strains of bacteria and microorganisms, and prevent them from proliferating. Oregano oil has been used traditionally for centuries as a natural remedy to treat symptoms of respiratory illness, including coughs, colds, and sore throats. Effective as a natural infection fighter, oregano oil has strong antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

NAC – N-acetyl-L-cysteine, an amino acid derivative with mucous thinning properties, has been used in conventional medicine for over three decades. NAC has been shown to reduce both the severity and the duration of the flu by supporting the production and activity of white blood cells, helping to boost the body’s natural immune response.

Vitamin D3 – Research indicates that vitamin D3 taken prophylactically is effective in prevention of common upper respiratory infections, including colds and flu. Vitamin D3 supports the immune system by reducing levels of inflammatory proteins, and increasing levels of antimicrobial proteins, naturally occurring antibiotics that destroy invading pathogens and viruses. Studies show that those with lower levels of vitamin D3 are more likely to develop influenza when compared to those with high levels of vitamin D3.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products to support immune and overall heath:

Oscillococcinum®Oscillococcinum® by Boiron: These highly effective homeopathic pellets work with your body to reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms, including body aches, headache, fever, chills and fatigue. Non-drowsy formula. Children’s formula also available.

 

ACF Fast Relief...ACF Fast Relief Immune Support High Potency by Buried Treasure Nutritionals: This high potency, fast acting liquid immune support formula provides high quality botanicals and nutrients for cold and flu symptom relief. This naturally preserved formulation is gluten, wheat, yeast and dairy free.

 

NAC 600 mgNAC 600 mg by Pure Encapsulations: NAC provides powerful cellular nutritional support, specifically supporting healthy lung function though its mucolytic activity. In addition to its antioxidant properties, NAC supports glutathione production, ramping up antioxidant protection. Gluten-free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

A.D.P.A.D.P.® by Biotics Research: This patented, proven effective formula supplies delayed release standardized oregano oil delivered to the intestinal tract to defend against pathogens and bacteria. Gluten free formulation.

 

Vitamin D 5,000 IU ...Vitamin D 5000 IU by Douglas Laboratories: This product supplies 5000 IU of highly bioavailable natural vitamin D3 in support of overall health. Gluten, wheat, soy, yeast and dairy free vegetarian formulation.

 

References:
Flu. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Here’s why you feel so crummy when you’re sick. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Why Do We Get Chills With a Fever? http://www.everydayhealth.com/cold-and-flu/why-do-we-get-chills-with-a-fever.aspx
Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm
Echinacea. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/echinacea
Elderberry. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/elderberry
Garlic. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/garlic
11 Best Home Remedies for Flu: Treatments Backed by Scientific Studies. http://universityhealthnews.com/daily/eyes-ears-nose-throat/5-best-home-remedies-for-flu-treatment-backed-by-scientific-studies/
Vitamin D for influenza. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4463890/

Healthy Aging – Optimize Glutathione Levels

OptimizeGlutathioneLevelsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Naturally occurring glutathione, considered to be the body’s most powerful antioxidant, is found within all bodily cells. With additional vital roles as an immune booster and a detoxifying agent, this hard working and incredibly beneficial molecule is the only intracellular antioxidant in prime position to help maintain cellular health and performance, as well as provide protection from oxidative stress by neutralizing the free radicals that can cause DNA cell damage. Produced in the liver from three amino acids, glutamic acid, L-cysteine and L-glycine, healthy levels of glutathione reduce the risks of developing age-related diseases. Additionally, glutathione acts to control the inflammation behind the development of chronic diseases, and aids in the elimination of toxins, pollutants and heavy metals.

Extremely important to maintaining cellular health, evidence shows that the chronically ill, heart attack victims, and patients hospitalized with serious diseases are often found to be deficient in glutathione. Low levels of glutathione leave the cells more vulnerable to cellular DNA damage that contributes to the development of cancer, neurological diseases, and other age-related illnesses. Aging, stress, poor diet, injury, and illness all contribute to low cellular levels of glutathione. However, you can help to protect the body from oxidation by supporting the production of glutathione, as glutathione is both produced and recycled within the body.

Increasing the blood levels of glutathione supports immune function, optimizes detoxification, reduces free radicals and enhances heavy metal clearance. As a master antioxidant, glutathione recycles other antioxidants, such as oxidized lipoic acid, and vitamins C and E, and restores them to an active state after they have depleted their electrons neutralizing free radicals. The most effective way to increase glutathione levels is by eating glutathione boosting foods, exercising regularly and supplementing with glutathione and its precursors, the molecules necessary to support glutathione production.

Sufficient levels of glutathione won’t actually make you look younger, but will help to keep you healthier longer. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, practicing functional medicine physician, “A high level of glutathione is critical to recovery from nearly all chronic illness, to preventing disease and to maintaining optimal health and performance.” By exercising, consuming a nutrient dense diet, and supplementing, you can optimize your overall health and wellness goals along with your naturally occurring glutathione levels:

  • Supplementation: Liposomal glutathione/S-Acetyl Glutathione– Glutathione on its own is not readily bioavailable. Liposomal glutathione, however, is believed to be fully absorbable. Liposomes are microscopic fats that surround and essentially hide the glutathione inside. Cells recognize the liposome, which is quickly absorbed into cell along with the glutathione. For optimal absorption and bioavailability, s-acetyl-glutathione provides the acetylated form of glutathione.
  • NAC – One of the most effective ways to improve and ensure healthy levels of glutathione is by supplementing with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), an essential amino acid and a main building block of glutathione.
  • Pay attention to vitamin intake – Be sure to get adequate levels of vitamins B6, B12, folate and betaine to support critical bodily functions, that include DNA repair, detoxification and immune health.
  • Enhance glutathione synthesis – Consider supplementing with liver-supportive milk thistle, as well as selenium, which supports glutathione recycling, and alpha lipoic acid for support of many bodily processes, including detoxification and energy production.
  • Add concentrated whey protein to your morning smoothie – Bioactive, pesticide and hormone free, whey protein is a great source of cysteine and other amino acids that support glutathione synthesis.
  • Eat smart – Be sure to include sulfur-rich, cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetables in your diet. Studies have shown that sulfur amino acids stimulate glutathione production and support higher glutathione levels.
  • Minimize toxin exposure – Toxic overload not only depletes glutathione levels; it also reduces the liver’s ability to produce it. To reduce your toxic load, switch to natural cleaning and body care products, use glass in lieu of plastic to store and reheat food, and when possible, purchase organically grown fruits and vegetables.
  • Another reason to exercise – Studies suggest that moderate exercise, especially cardio exercise in combination with weight training, can increase glutathione levels, which helps to boost immunity, support detoxification and enhance antioxidant defenses.
  • Manage your stress – Unmanaged, chronic stress takes on toll on glutathione levels. Take steps to get stress under control by using any calming techniques that help you to relax. This can be as simple as practicing mindful breathing several times each day.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality nutritional supplements to support overall wellness and healthy aging:

S-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy by Designs for HealthS-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy by Designs for Health – This formula provides a unique acetylated form of glutathione for optimum absorption and bioavailability. Additional ingredients include vitamin B6 and NAC. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

NAC 600 mg by Pure EncapsulationsNAC 600 mg by Pure Encapsulations – As a precursor to glutathione, this free- form amino acid enhances glutathione production, increases tissue levels of glutathione and plays a role in heavy metal detoxification. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Milk Thistle Max-V (77358-) by Douglas LaboratoriesMilk Thistle Max-V by Douglas Laboratories – This product provides standardized Silymarin shown to nutritionally support and enhance normal, healthy liver function, acts to prevent toxins from entering the liver and enhances levels of glutathione. Soy free, vegan formulation.

 

Whey Protein Concentrate by Biotics ResearchWhey Protein Concentrate by Biotics Research – This Non-GMO, hormone-free whey protein concentrate is derived from grass fed New Zealand cows in support of anti-aging, detoxification and liver and gallbladder health. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Homocysteine Factors by Pure EncapsulationsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations – This formula provides activated B6, folate as Metafolin®, B12 as methylcobalamin, and anhydrous betaine in support of healthy homocysteine metabolism and glutathione production. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

References:
The importance and regulation of hepatic glutathione. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC25960
The Key Benefits of Glutathione. http://aminoacidstudies.org/l-glutathione/
What Glutathione (GSH) is and how it affects your immune health. http://www.immunehealthscience.com/glutathione.html
Glutathione: The Mother of All Antioxidants. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/glutathione-the-mother-of_b_530494.html
What is Glutathione and How Do I Get More of It? http://drhyman.com/blog/2010/05/12/what-is-glutathione-and-how-do-i-get-more-of-it/
Methylation Problems Lead to 100s of Diseases. http://suzycohen.com/articles/methylation-problems/
How Does Liposomal Glutathione Work? http://glutathione.wellwise.org/how-do-liposomes-work