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Natural Anti-Inflammatories for Pain Relief

Posted on May 12, 2015 by | Comments Off on 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

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Omega-3’s and Your Good Health

Posted on August 7, 2014 by | Comments Off on Omega-3’s and Your Good Health
omega3..SusanBiconBy Susan Brown
Health & Wellness Writer
 

Omega-3 essential fatty acids, or what most of us call fish oil, are some of the most well-researched, health supporting nutrients available.  Although omega 3 fatty acids are vital for human health, the body does not produce them and they must be obtained through diet or supplementation.  Omega 3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats.  They include ALA, found in plant oils such as flax seed, algae or walnut oils, and EPA and DHA, found in marine oils obtained from cold water fish such sardines, trout, salmon and krill.  Extensive research shows that Omega 3’s support brain, heart, joint, eye, digestive and immune health and promote a healthy inflammatory response. 

Our customers know best!  Here are some of our customers’ 5 star rated omega-3 fatty acid supplements:

OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720
 
OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720 by Metagenics provides a healthy balance of highly concentrated marine lipids, which are produced in Norway in a pharmaceutically licensed facility.  Third party testing ensures purity, while natural antioxidants ensure freshness. 
 
Arctic Omega Liquid Lemon
 
Arctic Omega Liquid Lemon by Nordic Naturals is formulated to provide a natural balance of EPA and DHA in an easy to use and pleasant tasting liquid format.  Manufactured according to strict European standards, guaranteeing no detectable heavy metals, dioxins or PCB’s. ON SALE – SAVE15%
 
Opti-EPA 500 (7089)
 
Opti-EPA™ 500 (7089) by Douglas Laboratories provides enriched levels of concentrated marine fish oil.  This product is strictly screened for toxic metals and chemicals and is carefully processed to avoid oxidation. 
 
 
Flax/Borage Oil
Flax/Borage Oil by Pure Encapsulations provides a concentrated source of essential fatty acids obtained from flax seed oil and borage oil.  Suitable for those who wish to obtain their omegas from plant sources, this product contains chemically-free, fresh pressed oils. 
 
 
Total Omega Lemonade
 
Total Omega by Barlean’s Organic Oils provides optimal levels of vital and essential omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids in a great tasting, lemonade flavored liquid serving.  Sourced from organic flax seed oil, ultra-purified fish oil, and pesticide free borage seed oil. 
 
ProOmega Lemon 1000 mg
 
ProOmega Lemon 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals provides high intensity, therapeutic levels of omega-3 sourced from purified deep sea fish oil.  Third party tested for contaminants, heavy metals, dioxins and PCB’s. ON SALE – SAVE 15%
 
 
Orthomega Pearls For Kids
 
Orthomega Pearls for Kids by Ortho Molecular provides great tasting orange-berry flavored chewable pearls formulated specifically for children.  Sourced from cold water fish and tested for pesticides, heavy metals and contaminants.

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Feed Your Brain

Posted on April 11, 2014 by | Comments Off on Feed Your Brain

brain foodBy Jacquie Eubanks BSN, RN

Is there such a thing as brain food?  Glucose is the fuel used by brain cells to fuel the mitochondria that are responsible for your brain power.  The brain is constantly hungry for energy and uses more than 20 percent of our daily energy intake.  All foods that we consume greatly impact brain function including learning, memory, mobility, senses and emotions.  The energy produced from our diets is systematically delivered to brain cells, called neurons, through the blood stream.  Because neurons cannot store glucose, a constant supply of fuel must be delivered to the brain to fuel cellular activities. 

Neurons have a high demand for energy as they are constantly in a state of metabolic activity.  Even while we sleep, neurons are hard at work repairing and rebuilding structural components and manufacturing enzymes and neurotransmitters.  Nerve transmissions or communication signals consume half of the brain’s energy usage or nearly 10 percent of the entire body’s energy.  Without efficient energy, our brains cannot function normally.  In fact, without fuel, our bodies don’t function well on any level.  Poor eating habits and eating the wrong foods over a life time can affect the structure and function of the brain.

Glucose, or blood sugar, is obtained from the carbohydrates we consume such as starches, sugars, grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables and to a smaller degree dairy products.  Too many refined carbs or sugar in the bloodstream can actually deprive your brain of glucose, depleting its energy supply and compromising concentration and mental activity.  Complex carbs, found mostly in natural, whole foods, have long chains of sugar molecules that take time to break down into the shorter glucose molecules that the brain uses for food.  Simple carbs, such as those found in processed and refined foods, already have short chain sugar molecules so they enter the blood stream quickly. 

Sugary foods, such as soda, candy and foods containing corn syrup, contain glucose that is absorbed directly through the stomach wall and immediately released into bloodstream.  This rapidly raises glucose levels and gives you a short-lived boost.  However, this triggers the pancreas to secrete insulin, which pulls the excess glucose from the bloodstream to store for later use, making it unavailable for the brain to utilize.  Within a few hours, your ability to focus and think suffers and you may feel weak, tired or nervous as the brain signals the need for another boost.  Repeatedly overloading the bloodstream with sugar diminishes the body’s ability to respond to insulin, leading to insulin resistance and increasing the chances of  developing type 2 diabetes. 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the best brain-healthy diet is one that reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes and encourages good blood flow to the brain.  A brain-healthy, heart-healthy diet is most effective when combined with exercise, mental activity and social interaction.  Managing your body weight is also important for overall health of the brain and body, as long-term studies show that obese middle-agers are twice as likely to develop dementia later in life.  Add in high cholesterol and high blood pressure and that risk increases six-fold.  Increasing the intake of protective foods such as healthy fats, antioxidant containing fruits and vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and add brain cell protection.  To optimize brain power, consider more frequent but smaller meals to keep blood sugar stable.  The brain appears to function well with about 25 grams of circulating glucose, about the amount found in a banana. 

If you really want to preserve your brain’s health, consider ditching soda, foods with high fructose corn syrup, and high sugar content foods in favor of healthier choices.  The following foods are just a few examples of brain-healthy foods: 

Spinach and leafy greens are loaded with vitamins C and E, which have been shown to improve cognitive abilities.

Fatty fish, high in omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to help slow cognitive decline that comes with aging. 

Berries, which are chock full of vitamins and antioxidants, can help combat oxidative stress associated with aging and appear to support the brain’s signaling capabilities.

Carrots have high levels of luteolin, which could reduce age-related memory deficits and inflammation in the brain. 

Walnuts contain high levels of antioxidants that may combat the damage to brain cells’ DNA caused by free radicals.

Apples are a great source of quercetin, an antioxidant that helps keep you mentally sharp by protecting brain cells from free radicals, which can damage neurons and lead to cognitive decline. 

On those occasions when we can’t always eat “right”, here are some supplements to support brain health:

Deeper Greens by Ortho Molecular provides a proprietary blend of fruits, greens and antioxidant vegetables with high ORAC value, a value given to foods that increase beneficial blood plasma antioxidant levels.  Organic ingredients used whenever possible. 

OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720 by Metagenics provides a healthy balance of highly concentrated omega-3 essential fatty acids from cold water fish.  Produced in Norway, these lemon flavored softgels are stabilized with natural antioxidants to ensure freshness.  Purity guaranteed. 

Brain Energy (98723) by Douglas Laboratories is specially formulated to support dopamine production for a more energetic brain.  Vegetarian formula. 

Brain Support, Q. by Quantum Nutrition Labs provides a comprehensive, live-source formula to promote brain performance, clarity, focus, attention and memory as well as advanced lipid support for the brain. 

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