Tag Archives: Phytoganix by Metagenics

Aging is Inevitable, Disease is Not

HealthyAgingMenJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

How many of us, given a choice, would choose to grow older, especially when aging is associated with chronic illness and multiple prescription medications? As time marches on regardless, a better question might be—how many of us would choose to enjoy our golden years blessed with good health and vitality? Over the past century numerous infectious diseases have been conquered, only to be replaced by noncommunicable diet-related chronic diseases. As 76 million baby boomers approach or reach retirement age, medical care is focused on the prevalence of chronic health problems. A personal history of inadequate nutrition, poor daily choices and physical inactivity can culminate in preventable lifestyle-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers.

Though we can’t turn back the clock, we can support our current and long-term health by understanding the influences of nutrition at the molecular level. Current recommended dietary guidelines for all age groups focus on nutrition for the maintenance of overall health and disease prevention. How important is a varied nutritious diet? The fact that many grocery stores have a section specifically dedicated to “health foods,” might give us a clue. Perhaps, if we begin to think of “natural food” as information that influences our genetic activity and cellular processes, we might choose to linger a bit longer in the healthy food aisles. Research has shown that diet is the key to controlling genetic susceptibility to disease, and our genes can only respond to what we give them.

Scientific research shows that although we may inherit genes from our parents and ancestors that increase our susceptibility to certain diseases, disease is not necessarily our destiny. We can replace foods that trigger our genes to induce inflammation with foods that quell inflammation, and thereby circumvent chronic disease. We can eat low-glycemic foods that minimize insulin secretion, as opposed to high-glycemic foods that stimulate insulin release and result in high blood sugar and diabetes. We can eat a high fiber diet that supports colon health, instead of a low-fiber diet that may encourage colorectal cancer progression. We can take charge of our health by changing the expression of the epigenome at any stage of life simply by making wholesome nutritional choices and incorporating a healthy lifestyle.

Perhaps it’s time to challenge the belief that disability, dysfunction, dementia and disease are normal and inevitable as we grow older. Many chronic illnesses are disorders of metabolic processes that result from our toxic environment and our nutrient depleted lifestyles. Nutritional science has shown us the complex relationship between health, the genome and life-long dietary interactions. We now know that many diseases that were once thought to be gene-related, result from nutritional deficiencies. Vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants are considered key players in genetic expression modulation. Researchers have identified active plant derived nutrients that can help to prevent cancer and protect against diseases.

We now know that the root of many diet-related chronic conditions take hold early in life. Dietary changes, such as reducing sugar, salt and unhealthy fat consumption, could have a substantial effect on reducing the burden of disease. Even more so, a meta-analysis recently published in the International Journal of Epidemiology looked at 95 studies on fruit and vegetable intake. They concluded that eating 10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables, or about 2 cups of fruit and 3 cups of vegetables, would result in a 24% reduction in heart disease risk, a 33% lowered stroke risk, a 28% lowered cardiovascular disease risk, a 13% lowered cancer risk and a 31% lowered risk of premature death.

Changes that occur naturally with aging do affect nutritional needs. Along with reduced energy requirements, lean body mass and basal metabolic rate steadily decline. While the caloric need for protein, carbohydrates and fats may be reduced, the requirements for vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients may rise. Filling our bellies with health sustaining fruits and vegetables has been shown to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, and support vascular and immune health. It sure seems like a no-brainer! Aging may be inevitable, but poor health is not. If you want to maintain vitality and enjoy a longer, healthier life span, start by eating a variety of fruits and vegetables and be sure you are getting sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality supplements to support overall health:

Ultra Anti-Oxidant ...Ultra Anti-Oxidant by Douglas Laboratories: This potent formula provides a wide spectrum of nutritional antioxidants, as well as synergistic nutrients that effectively participate in antioxidant defense systems. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy and yeast free formulation.

 

RevitalAge Ultra ...RevitalAge™ Ultra by Pure Encapsulations: This scientifically researched, sustained-release formula provides antioxidant protection and mitochondrial support cofactors in support of healthy aging through the maintenance of youthful gene expression, mitochondrial function, and cellular energy production. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Phytoganix™Phytoganix™ by Metagenics: This highly nutritious organic red berry formula provides a convenient and delicious way to support overall good health with a diverse daily supply of phytonutrients. Gluten free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Super Greens BerrySuper Greens Berry by Neurobiologix: This great tasting, high ORAC value, energizing powdered phytonutrient formula provides certified organic whole food plant extracts, plus natural vitamins, ionic trace minerals, digestive enzymes, antioxidants and symbiotic microorganisms. These ingredients support maximal energy production, healthy digestive function, and immune optimization, as well as repair, revitalization, recovery, and longevity. Gluten, wheat, soy, and dairy free formulation.

 

Power Greens Premium...Power Greens Premium Berry by NuMedica: This state-of-the-art, great tasting greens and superfoods drink mix, provides high quality energizing phytonutrients, certified organic whole foods, digestive enzymes, adaptogenic herbs, plant extracts and pre- and probiotics, along with a full complement of vitamins and minerals, in support of optimal health and longevity. Gluten, wheat, soy and milk free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
Top 10 Health Concerns of Baby Boomers. https://www.scripps.org/news_items/5475-top-10-health-concerns-of-baby-boomers
Nutrition and Health Are Closely Related. https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/introduction/nutrition-and-health-are-closely-related/
Feed your genes: How our genes respond to the foods we eat. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/09/110919073845.htm
Nutrition and Gene Expression. http://www.wholehealthandnutrition.com/blog/uncategorized/nutrition-and-gene-expression-5/
Nutrition for Older Persons. http://www.who.int/nutrition/topics/ageing/en/index1.html
Eating More of This Will Make You Live Longer. http://time.com/4680193/eat-fruits-vegetables-live-longer/?xid=newsletter-brief

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 Chapter15% 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

Have You Had Your Flavonoids Today?

FlavanoidsJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

Flavonoids, you say? You may not have heard of them, but you are likely experiencing some of their health benefits if you are regularly drinking tea, eating colorful fruits and veggies, or are enjoying a glass of red wine with dinner. There are over 5,000 identified compounds of naturally occurring plant pigments known as flavonoids. In general, the more colorful the plant-based food, the more beneficial flavonoids it contains. As antioxidants, flavonoids play a role in reducing heart disease, stroke and cancer risks and may protect against cognitive and age-related functional decline. Flavonoids, however, are not just your average antioxidants. Scientists have discovered that certain flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, anticancer and antihistamine benefits and may have mood and memory enhancing properties as well.

Flavonoids are bioactive phytonutrients that are chemically classified as polyphenols. Also known as flavonols, isoflavones and anthocyanidins, flavonoids play a wide variety of roles in human, plant and animal health. Flavonols are believed to be plant protective and play a functional role in plant wound repair and providing living plants protection against pests and diseases. In the human diet, whole plant foods provide life sustaining essential nutrients and other beneficial compounds. In addition to basic nutrition, the bioactive components found in functional foods are not only health promoting, they also play a significant role in chronic disease prevention. According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, it is estimated that one third of all cancer deaths in the United States might be avoided with appropriate dietary changes, including increased consumption of nutrient dense fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains.  

In addition to fruits and vegetables, tea is rich in polyphenols, the antioxidants that counteract cell-damaging free radicals. Green tea, for example, contains high concentrations of the polyphenol EGCG, which has great antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, along with distinctive benefits for protecting the brain and nervous system against diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Research suggests that those who drink 2 cups or more of tea daily have lower total and LDL cholesterol and are less likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. There is also evidence that tea drinkers have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and are able to recover more quickly from stress related issues.  

Good news for chocolate lovers — dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70-90%) contains flavonols that may reduce arterial inflammation, lowering the risk of plaque formation in the arteries that can lead to heart disease and atherosclerosis. And according to Harvard Health Publications, dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and may have positive effects on blood clotting and insulin sensitivity. The bad news — you don’t need to eat much to enjoy the health benefits. Just a few small squares or about 1/2 oz. daily is all you need. And watch out for added sugar and milk, ingredients that drastically reduce the beneficial effects. Ideally, raw organic dark chocolate is the healthiest, as the darker and less processed the chocolate is the more cacao seeds and healthy compounds it contains.

The National Academy of Sciences recommends consuming a minimum of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily to promote adequate intake of their synergistic health promoting and disease preventive phytonutrients. Two good things to remember — take a walk on the wild side and choose a wide variety of colorful foods, including some you may not have tried before. And be sure to include some raw foods, as the closer the food is to its natural raw state, the higher its nutritional value, providing greater benefits for your overall wellness.  

For those who shy away from veggies or those who consume more processed foods than whole foods, here are some high quality supplement options:

PhytoganixPhytoganix™ by Metagenics – Designed to provide a daily supply of certified organic phytonutrients, this convenient, delicious and highly nutritious powdered formula supplies antioxidant-rich superfoods along with polyphenol-rich green tea, herbs, vegetables and fruits. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.  

 

NitroGreensNitro Greens® by Biotics Research – This whole food concentrate supplies an all organic proprietary blend of greens, veggies, fruits and sprouts to supply a rich source of phytonutrients, including polyphenols and isoflavones, as well as naturally occurring enzymes, vitamins and trace minerals. Gluten and dairy free.

 

Bioflavonoid Complex (80116-)Bioflavonoid Complex by Douglas Labs – This synergistic formula supplies naturally sourced antioxidant citrus bioflavonoids to aid in supporting circulatory and immune health and the healthy metabolism of collagen, cholesterol and histamine.   Gluten, soy and dairy free.

 

Ultra Greens pHUltra Greens pH by BioGenesis Nutraceuticals – This nutrient-rich powdered greens formula contains phytonutrients, antioxidants and supportive enzymes and provides a simple and convenient way to improve overall nutritional balance and support balanced body pH.

 

Ester-C® & FlavonoidsEster-C® & Flavonoids by Pure Encapsulations – This formula provides natural, non-acidic, bioavailable and highly absorbable vitamin C plus complementary flavonoid compounds in support of synergistic antioxidant, immune and vascular integrity support. Non-GMO formulation.

 

References:
Health Protective Effects of Phytonutrients: Green Tea Extract. http://www4.dr-rath-foundation.org/research_news/articles/issue-38-health-information-protective-effects-of-phytonutrients-green-tea-extract.html
Flavonoids in food and their health benefits. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15678717#
Health benefits of cocoa flavonoids. http://www.eufic.org/article/en/artid/health-benefits-cocoa-flavanoids/
Health benefits of fruit and vegetables are from additive and synergistic combinations of phytochemicals. http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/78/3/517S.full
What are Flavonoids? http://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-Flavonoids.aspx