Tag Archives: Pycnogenol® by Douglas Laboratories

Rosacea

RosaceaJacquie Eubanks RN BSNRosacea is a poorly understood chronic disorder that exhibits symptoms of redness and acne-like breakouts that appear on the facial area, and less frequently, the eye, ear, chest and back areas. Perimenopausal women, fair-skinned individuals, and middle aged and older adults are the most likely to develop rosacea, although anyone can get the disease at any age. Rosacea affects an estimated 16 million Americans, the clear majority of whom are currently untreated. While more research is needed, studies have shown associations between rosacea and increased risk for a growing list of health conditions, including allergies, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as irritable bowel, ulcerative colitis, and celiac and Crohn’s diseases, providing additional reasons to seek a medical diagnosis and an overall health assessment.

Typically striking individuals over 30 years of age, rosacea often presents as a sudden inexplicable blush, similar to a light sunburn. Symptoms may disappear relatively quickly, only to appear again another day. Warning signs of rosacea include persistent redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead, small visible blood vessels on the face, facial bumps or pimples, and watery or irritated eyes. Symptoms are known to worsen with each recurrence; the complexion tends to become ruddier, flare-ups last increasingly longer, and burning, itching, swelling and skin thickening may eventually occur. Understandably, the condition often has negative effects on emotional, occupational, and social wellbeing, from embarrassment to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

The cause of rosacea remains undetermined. However, people may inherit the tendency to develop the disorder. Numerous environmental and lifestyle factors are known to trigger symptoms that can last for weeks or months at a time. Common triggers include sun exposure, hot or cold weather, wind and humidity, emotional stress, alcohol consumption, hot or spicy foods and beverages, intense exercise, food sensitivities, and certain personal care products. Any activity that causes flushing or overheats the facial area, such as a sauna, a hot bath or high intensity exercise, has the potential to cause a flare-up.

Although there is no cure, early diagnosis is highly recommended, as individualized treatment can help to control the condition, improve skin appearance, and slow symptom progression.  Initially, an oral medication protocol or long term use of a topical cream may reduce redness and bring the condition under control. Identifying and avoiding lifestyle and environmental triggers that aggravate individual conditions can greatly improve chances of remission. A gentle, non-irritating skin care routine utilizing products formulated for sensitive skin is imperative for minimizing irritation and improving appearance. The National Rosacea Society (NRS) suggests avoiding potentially irritating ingredients, including witch hazel, menthol, and eucalyptus, as well as fragrances, astringents and exfoliating agents.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends minimizing personal care products to those that have multiple functions, such as a moisturizer that contains sunblock. As fragrances are high on the list of irritants, AAD advises the use of fragrance-free, allergy tested products to reduce the risk of irritation. As irritants vary from person to person, testing a small amount of product on the neck area before using on the facial area is recommended. Use fingertips, not a washcloth, when cleansing the face and rinse with lukewarm, not hot or cold, water. Men can get a close shave with less facial irritation by avoiding shave creams and opting for an electric razor. An aftershave balm designed for sensitive skin can help to soothe and moisturize the skin after shaving. Nutrients and treatments that help control symptoms often result in improved confidence and enhanced self-esteem. Studies show that when fewer signs and symptoms are visible, the overall quality of life improves.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality products to support the health and appearance of the skin:

Zinc 15Zinc 15 by Pure Encapsulations®: This highly absorbable zinc picolinate provides support for the body’s defense systems, as well as collagen formation, healthy tissue development and tissue repair. Zinc has been shown to be effective in managing dermatological conditions, calming inflammation, reducing breakouts and soothing redness. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

OmegaGenics® Evening...OmegaGenics® Evening Primrose Oil by Metagenics: High in naturally sourced omega-6 fatty acids, evening primrose oil helps to improve skin health, soothes inflamed skin, aids in the maintenance of healthy cell membranes, and provides support for overall health. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

Women's NutrientsWomen’s Nutrients by Pure Encapsulations®: Designed for women over 40 years of age, this complete nutrient-rich formula provides highly bioavailable vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and botanicals to alleviate nutrient deficiencies and support overall heath and function.

Pycnogenol (7041)Pycnogenol® by Douglas Laboratories: This French maritime pine bark extract is well known for its powerful antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory properties. Pycnogenol® helps to reduce allergy triggers, tamping down not only inflammation but histamine production as well. It binds to collagen fibers providing free radical protection and preserving the natural elasticity of the skin. Gluten, soy, dairy and yeast free formulation.

Active B-ComplexActive B Complex by Integrative Therapeutics: This formula corrects or prevents the B vitamin deficiencies often seen in those with rosacea. Sufficient B vitamin intake is essential to the growth, repair and replication of healthy skin cells and healthy cellular function. Gluten and soy free vegetarian formulation.

References:
What is Rosacea? https://www.rosacea.org/
Rosacea Awareness Month Highlights Warning Signs. https://www.rosacea.org/weblog/rosacea-awareness-month-highlights-warning-signs
Skin Care & Cosmetics. https://www.rosacea.org/patients/skincare/index.php
Rosacea: Who Gets and Causes. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/rosacea#causes
Questions and Answers about Rosacea. https://www.niams.nih.gov/HEALTH_INFO/Rosacea/default.asp

Is Dental Disease Related to Heart Disease?

DentalHeartDiseaseJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

There’s no question that oral bacteria influence the health of teeth and gum tissues. Because teeth have non-shedding surfaces, the ecosystem in the biofilm that colonizes on tooth surfaces is not only persistent but highly complex. Did you know that oral plaque and arterial plaque have been found to have similar inflammation-promoting pathogens? Over the last two decades, scientists have been studying the relationship between periodontal disease and atherosclerosis. Although inconclusive, researchers say it makes sense that inflammation in one area of the body might influence inflammation elsewhere in the body.

Overall, it appears that there is a small, but significant association between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Per the Mayo Clinic, increasing evidence shows that oral infections may play a role in the development of many systemic diseases. Taking good care of oral health is not proven to prevent heart disease, nor is treating existing gum disease proven to reduce heart disease risk. However, ongoing studies show that treating periodontitis reduces the serum concentration of inflammatory markers, primary measures associated with chronic heart disease, cancer and other serious health conditions.

Those who have periodontitis often have risk factors, such as diabetes and smoking, that put their oral health, as well as the health of the heart and blood vessels in jeopardy. Per the American Heart Association, shared risk factors contribute to general inflammation and may explain why gum disease and heart disease may occur simultaneously. Aggressive gum surgery can be risky for those who have had a heart attack or have a heart condition. While we don’t often equate good dental health with equally good overall health, it makes good sense to be diligent with brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings and oral exams.

Traditionally, oral health was described as the absence of disease. In 2016 the FDI Dental World Federation described oral health a new way: “Oral health is multifaceted, and includes the ability to speak, smile, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with confidence and without pain, discomfort and disease of the craniofacial complex.” Use good oral hygiene to control the risks of halitosis, gum disease, and tooth loss and very likely support overall wellness.

  • Brush after meals, or at least twice daily, with a soft bristled toothbrush. If you are not sure you are brushing properly, have your dentist or hygienist show you.
  • Change your toothbrush every three months, or more often if bristles look worn or spread out.
  • Avoid snacking on sugary or starchy foods.
  • Don’t smoke, as smoking raises the risk of gum disease, as well as oral and throat cancers.
  • See your dentist twice yearly, or as recommended. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may require more frequent visits. If you notice any bleeding, mouth sores or jaw pain, see your dentist as soon as you can.
  • Eat a balanced nutritious diet to support overall and dental health.
  • Certain medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to cavities. Consider a dry mouth toothpaste or mouthwash formulated to help treat the symptoms.

Periodontal disease is associated with lower levels of important vitamins and minerals. Probiotics may help to decrease inflamed and swollen gum tissues and suppress the growth of harmful oral pathogens. Plant foods that are rich in anthocyanins, such as berries, may help to prevent pathogens from colonizing on teeth. Green tea contains polyphenols that help to reduce oral bacteria. Pycnogenol has been shown to decrease plaque and support healthy gum tissues. Raw vegetables and fruits not only provide vitamins, minerals and healthy fiber, they help to remove food that adheres to teeth, especially after a meal.

 Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements in support of oral health and overall wellness:

DentaVenDentaVen™ by Premier Research Labs – This unique patented formula provides a highly desirable strain of probiotic that colonizes and resides in the mouth, beneficially supporting tooth and periodontal health. Gluten free.

 

Neem Mouthwash MintNeem Mouthwash by Theraneem – Validated by modern science for oral care, neem has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to maintain healthy teeth and gum tissue. Neem helps to eliminate the bacteria that causes inflammation, while helping to heal tissues and freshening breath. Gluten, paraben and phthalate free.

 

PerioBiotic Fennel...PerioBiotic™ Fennel Toothpaste by Designs for Health – This fluoride-free probiotic toothpaste is formulated with Dental-Lac™, a specific probiotic strain, in support of healthy oral bacteria and the maintenance of dental health. Gluten free.

 

HylaMints - Dry...HylaMints Dry Mouth by Hyalogic – These teeth friendly mints provide moisture support for dry mouth with hyaluronic acid, nature’s natural moisturizer. HylaMints freshen breath, while promoting oral comfort and enhancing salivary function. Natural peppermint spearmint flavor. Gluten free, vegan formulation.

 

Pycnogenol (7041)Pycnogenol® by Douglas Laboratories – This powerful natural antioxidant helps reduce oxidative damage to tissues and supports capillary and arterial health, normal joint mobility and healthy gum tissues. Gluten, soy and dairy free formulation.

 

References:
Heart disease and oral health: role of oral bacteria in heart plaque. http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/heart-disease-oral-health
Oral Health, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Disease. http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.510.2073&rep=rep1&type=pdf
Inflammatory marker detected in blood tests can better predict risk of death, study suggests. http://www.news-medical.net/news/20161129/Inflammatory-marker-detected-in-blood-tests-can-better-predict-risk-of-death-study-suggests.aspx
Dental Health and Heart Health. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/Dental-Health-and-Heart-Health_UCM_459358_Article.jsp
Oral Health Fact Sheet. https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/oral-health.html
The dental diet: 10 nutrition strategies for healthy teeth. http://www.precisionnutrition.com/nutrition-teeth-dental-health