Tag Archives: Q. by Quantum Nutrition Labs

Stressed? It’s Not Just the Holidays

stressJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

December is the time of year when many of us admit to feeling stressed about the holidays, family commitments and time constraints. This short-term stress is generally not a threat to our long-term health, although we may be affected by some sleepless nights, digestive upset resulting from overindulgence, and what may seem like never ending fatigue. However, it’s the unremitting chronic stress, especially in older or less healthy individuals, that can damage long term health and make us more vulnerable to developing chronic diseases. Some stress is unavoidable and triggered by stressors that come at us in many forms. There are biological stressors, environmental stressors, cognitive stressors, situational stressors, and lifestyle stressors. Our reactions to these stressors and how they affect us is what matters to our health and longevity.

A national poll conducted by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard School of Public Heath showed that one in four Americans say they are under a great deal of stress and half reported experiencing a major stressful event during the past year. The poll showed that although most of us deal with stress daily, those in poor health reported the highest levels of stress. Adults living with a disability or a chronic illness reported that managing their disease was a major cause of their distress. There’s no question that managing stress can be overwhelming. More than half of those reporting high levels of stress say spending time with family and friends provided the most relief. However, failure to address chronic stress can be very costly, affecting not only health, but the health of family and social relationships and financial wellbeing.

Many may not realize that health and longevity is dependent upon maintaining a constant state of homeostasis. Homeostasis can be defined as any number of biological processes the body uses to maintain the complex equilibrium necessary for survival, such as body temperature and blood levels of oxygen, water, protein, fat, salt and sugar. As well, the body must maintain relatively stable homeostasis while under the adverse effects stressors. By definition, a stressor can be a chemical, biological, environmental or external stimulus or any event that triggers the stress response.

Acute stress is a survival mechanism, known as the “fight or flight” response that forces us to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. When under acute stress, the body quickly leaves the state of homeostasis in response to injury, fear or a dangerous situation. A healthy body returns to homeostasis when the risk is no longer present.

Traumatic stress occurs in response to a traumatic life threatening experience or helplessly witnessing an event as it happens. This type of stress can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder that is often seen in veterans returning from war zones, survivors of assault, or those who have lost their homes due to a fire or severe weather conditions.

Chronic stress is the result of the body’s inability to return to homeostasis. Though we may survive when homeostasis is under constant threat, we don’t necessarily thrive. Prolonged stress can keep adrenal hormones chronically elevated, causing the adrenals to struggle and ultimately paving the way for adrenal fatigue. Low adrenal function is often the result of prolonged stress, bringing about a sense of exhaustion and poor organ and bodily functions. When homeostasis is not maintained, it can negatively affect, not only energy levels, but carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, and fluid and electrolyte balance, as well as the proper function of the heart and cardiovascular system.

As a rule, the better your overall health, the easier it is to handle stress. Take the time to care for yourself during the holidays and year-round by getting proper amounts of sleep, eating a nutritious diet and exercising, which all support overall good health and wellbeing. Supplements specifically formulated to target the imbalances brought about by chronic stress can support homeostasis, aid adrenal function and provide the reliable support necessary for the maintenance of proper function and optimal health and vitality.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements to support adrenal function and overall wellness:

ADHS (Adrenal...ADHS® by Biotics Research – This non-glandular adaptogenic herbal formulation is designed to support the adrenals and provide support for bodily functions when under stress. The formula contains vitamins, minerals and a proprietary herbal blend to aid the body in supporting homeostasis. Gluten free, vegetarian formulation.

Cortico-B5B6®Cortico-B5B6® by Metagenics® – This formula provides significant amounts of water-soluble B vitamins necessary for healthy adrenal hormone production and energy metabolism. A full-spectrum citrus bioflavonoid blend along with vitamin C provides potent antioxidant support. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Adaptogen, Q.Adaptogen, Q. by Quantum Nutrition Labs – This dynamic formulation provides quantum-state nutraceutical blends that support the entire adaptogenic process, including whole body stress support. Gluten and lactose free, vegan formulation.

HPA AdaptHPA Adapt by Integrative Therapeutics – This non-stimulant formula provides five powerful adaptogenic herbs to aid the body’s response to mental and physical stressors. HPA Adapt helps to reduce stress and fatigue, as well as improve mood, calm anxiety and provide support for cognitive function. Gluten, soy and dairy free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
Stress and Health: Psychological, Behavioral and Biological Determinants. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2568977/
Concepts of Homeostasis and Stress. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/704866_2
For Many Americans, Stress Takes A Toll On Health And Family. http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2014/07/07/323351759/for-many-americans-stress-takes-a-toll-on-health-and-family
What is homeostasis? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-is-homeostasis/
Stress. Psychology and Biology. https://www.britannica.com/topic/stress-psychology-and-biology
Stress and the Adrenals. http://blog.professionalsupplementcenter.com/stress-and-the-adrenals/

Now About Those Kidneys

Kidney_HealthJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

How much do you know about the importance of kidney health and function? Unless, you already know you have kidney issues, the health of your kidneys is probably not at the top of the list of things you regularly think about. Every day, your hard working kidneys filter 200 liters of blood and release cleansed blood back into the blood supply, while filtering out and eliminating toxins. Healthy kidney function is essential to overall wellness, as these highly active organs are responsible for many life sustaining tasks, including mineral and fluid balance, blood pressure regulation, bone health support, hormone regulation, red blood cell formation and waste elimination. Diseased and damaged kidneys negatively affect not only kidney function but over time can cause other serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, stroke, anemia and high blood pressure.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, over 26 million Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 1 in 3 Americans are at risk for developing CKD, which often has no symptoms and can go undetected until very advanced stages. Like other chronic diseases, CKD is on the rise. This is largely due to the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, which can damage the delicate kidney blood vessels and lead to kidney failure. While diabetes is the leading cause of CKD and high blood pressure a close second, additional risk factors for developing CKD include genetics, a family member who has kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, aging and race, including African Americans, Hispanics, native Americans and indigenous Alaskans.

Video Now About Those Kidneys

Kidney health can be easily monitored. Early detection through a simple annual urine or blood test is imperative, as early diagnosis can often slow or even halt progression of the disease. Although most people may not have severe symptoms until the disease is advanced, the following signs might indicate a need to visit your healthcare provider:

  • Fatigue
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Poor appetite
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Nighttime muscle cramping
  • Swollen feet and ankles
  • Puffiness around the eyes
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Frequent nighttime urination

Even if you don’t fit into any of the risk categories, taking care of the health of these critical organs can enable healthy function throughout your lifespan. Healthy kidneys go hand-in-hand with a healthy body. The following healthy lifestyle habits can help to prevent not only kidney disease but other chronic diseases as well:

  • Control blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol- Uncontrolled blood sugar levels accelerate kidney function loss. High cholesterol levels means increased risk for cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure can damage, stretch and weaken all blood vessels, including those found in the kidneys.
  • Maintain proper weight or lose weight if needed – Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and heart disease.
  • Follow a nutritious diet – Proper nutrition is key to good mental and physical health. The DASH diet, designed to control blood pressure, is often recommended in early stage kidney disease. Many chronic diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure, are preventable with good nutrition.
  • Get regular daily exercise – Exercise helps manage weight, keeps stress levels down and reduces risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease.
  • Hydrate with plenty of water- Kidneys need water to function properly. If your urine is straw-colored, your body is well hydrated. If it’s darker yellow, drink up!
  • Take all medicines as prescribed and avoid excessive over the counter pain medicine- Most of us don’t think twice before popping a pill for minor aches and pains, but overuse or long term use of medications, even OTC medications, can cause acute kidney damage or lead to the progression of kidney disease.
  • Watch salt and unhealthy fat intake – Diets high in sodium can increase blood pressure levels. Eat healthy fats from olive oil, nuts and avocado and avoid refined oils and hydrogenated fats.
  • Don’t smoke – Smoking slows blood flow to the kidneys, reducing optimal function and increasing the risks of strokes and heart attacks.
  • Limit alcohol consumption – Excessive alcohol consumption can affect the ability of the kidneys to filter blood and can negatively affect blood pressure and fluid balance.
  • Know your vitamin levels – Low levels of vitamin C, vitamin D and B vitamins are often seen in early stages of CKD.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other fine products to support kidney and overall health:

PGX DailyPGX® Daily by Bioclinic Naturals – As a highly purified fiber complex, this product is designed to support healthy glucose and cholesterol levels already within the normal range. This clinically studied, safe and effective proprietary formula contains 3 viscous natural fibers, which help to reduce appetite, ease food cravings, reduce overall cholesterol and normalize blood sugar levels. Dairy, gluten and yeast free formulation.

 

Ultra Glucose Control VanillaUltra Glucose Control™ Vanilla by Metagenics – This medical food is formulated for the nutritional management of the glucose response and is designed for those who may need additional support controlling their blood sugar levels. The formula contains a balanced ratio of carbohydrates, protein, fat and fiber in support of a healthy insulin response. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Policosanol + GugulipidPolicosanol + Gugulipid by Designs for Health – This unique combination of synergistic nutrients has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for its ability to naturally support healthy cholesterol levels and triglycerides. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

Kidney Support, Q.Kidney Support, Q. by Quantum Nutrition Labs – This quantum-state, broad-spectrum formula is designed to offer effective support for detoxification and optimal kidney health. Contains herbs, phytonutrients, mushrooms and organic greens in a highly bioavailable, non-toxic formulation. Vegetable capsule. No additional ingredients.

 

CLACLA by Ortho Molecular – Conjugated Linoleic Acid supports reduced body fat and increased muscle mass when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. CLA helps to speed fat metabolism as well as aid in metabolizing fat deposits. Gluten and soy free formulation.

 

References:
Awareness-Prevention-Treatment. https://www.kidney.org/
Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy. http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Kidneyhealth/Pages/Loveyourkidneys.aspx
Eating Right for Kidney Health. http://nkdep.nih.gov/resources/eating-right-508.pdf
7 Secrets to Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy. http://health.clevelandclinic.org/2015/04/7-secrets-to-keeping-your-kidneys-healthy/
High Blood Pressure and Kidney Disease. http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/kidney-disease/high-blood-pressure-and-kidney-disease/Pages/facts.aspx

Stressed? Consider Adaptogens

Adrenal_Support_StressJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

Chronic stress is widely believed to accelerate biological aging and have adverse effects on immune function and the inflammatory response. Health concerns, finances, job insecurities, and family and personal responsibilities are the top sources of stress in the U.S., with 25% of the population feeling financially stressed and 80% reporting stress related to employment. While a majority of Americans say they are chronically stressed, many are likely to address high stress levels in unhealthy ways, including increased alcohol consumption and a failure to focus on healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as a nutritious diet, adequate sleep and daily exercise. While occasional stress can be a positive, motivating force, the reality is that we are living in an unhealthy, chronically overstressed society.

Biological stress begins with our basic bodily processes that produce and utilize energy. Most of us may think of metabolism as part of our digestive process, but metabolism is all about energy and includes many life sustaining metabolic processes, including breathing, circulation, muscle contraction, elimination, body temperature control and brain and nervous system functions. Researchers who study the relationship between biological stress and aging suggest a direct cause-and-effect relationship between stress resistance and age-related diseases. According to the National Institutes of Health, age-related damage to DNA and proteins may often be reversible and may not cause problems until the damage evokes a stress response, suggesting that the stress response is the actual culprit when it comes to age-related health deterioration.

As part of the endocrine system, the adrenal glands have multi-functional roles. They regulate and maintain many internal processes, including metabolic functions, immune and inflammatory responses, essential hormone production, electrolyte balance and the fight-or-flight reaction to a threatening or stressful situation. While impaired adrenal function can be related to disorders or medical conditions, chronic stress is believed to be a major cause of adrenal dysfunction. Recognized in many parts of the world, but not yet recognized as a clear medical diagnosis in the U.S., adrenal fatigue is often cited when the adrenals are unable to adequately meet the demands brought on by stress.

AskTheNurseAdrenal fatigue or insufficiency is a term applied to a collection of symptoms that may include ongoing cycles of fatigue, nervousness, irritability, insomnia, depression, anxiety, lack of libido and weight and hormonal imbalances. With adrenal fatigue the glands still function, but not well enough to maintain optimal body balance or homeostasis. While identifying the causes of our individual stressors and taking steps to reduce or eliminate them is very helpful and healthy advice, many of us could use a bit of extra support for our very overworked adrenal glands.

By definition, adaptogens are a unique group of traditional therapeutic botanicals that work at the cellular level to aid the adrenals in managing our response to stress. Used extensively for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, adaptogens aid in normalizing body imbalances, supporting homeostasis and providing a sense of calm along with energizing influences. Calming and energizing at the same time? Yes, adaptogens can counteract the effects of mental and physical stress, restore energy, strengthen the immune response and normalize the inflammatory response by adapting to exactly what your body needs. In other words, adaptogens have self-limiting properties — they work hard when we need them and slack off when we don’t. Their broad-spectrum actions can help to optimize the health of the entire body.

To qualify as an adaptogen, an herb must be safe and effective, must have active substances with certain special qualities, must offer no harmful effects and must specifically be able to reduce the effects of mental and physical stress. Adaptogens are available in a single herb formulas as well as in combination formulas. Here are just a few of the more well known adaptogenic herbs:

Rhodiola Rosea – Used in China and Russia since ancient times, Rhodiola Rosea is believed to have many beneficial qualities that help to balance cortisol levels and support cellular energy metabolism, cardio health and healthy brain function.

Ashwagandha – Some of the best known benefits of Ashwagandha include increased vitality, energy and stamina. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha is believed to enhance endocrine function and aid in treating exhaustion brought on by physical and mental strain. In addition to improving stress resistance, Ashwagandha supports immune response, a more regulated sleep cycle and healthy thyroid and nervous system function.

Holy Basil – Also known as Tulsi, this is one of India’s more revered and powerful herbal remedies. Holy Basil is believed to help reduce stress by calming the nerves, lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation. As an antioxidant, Holy Basil helps minimize oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Panax Ginseng – Valued for thousands of years as a medicinal plant, Ginseng is believed to positively influence cellular metabolism, promote longevity, strengthen the immune response and provide an overall sense of wellbeing.  

Eleuthero Root – Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to address insomnia, fatigue and impaired concentration, it is also believed to improve memory, support general health and promote feelings of wellbeing.

Astragalus – This traditional Chinese herb helps protect against physical, mental and emotional stress. It has anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties and is believed to support immune health and cardiac function.

Schisandra – This potent general wellness tonic helps to decrease fatigue and promote physical performance and endurance. It is believed to counter stress by reducing the levels of stress hormones in the bloodstream.

Professional Supplement Center offer these and other fine products for adrenal support:

Adapten-AllAdapten-All by Ortho Molecular – This unique blend of key micronutrients and adaptogenic botanicals is specifically formulated to strengthen the body’s stress response and support healthy energy levels. Adaptogens include standardized extracts of Eleuthero root, Rhodiola rosea root, Schisandra berry and Ashwagandha root. Gluten, soy and dairy free, vegetarian formulation.

Adaptogen-R3Adaptogen-R3 by Premier Research Labs – This invigorating formula features key nutraceutical blends containing traditional adaptogenic herbs to promote the entire adaptogenic process that includes whole body rejuvenation. Excipient free, vegan formulation.

 

Adaptogen, Q.
Adaptogen, Q. by Quantum Nutrition Labs – This quantum-state product features the perfect adaptogenic triple blend. Highly rated for customer satisfaction, this formula is designed for optimal effect. Excipient free, vegan formulation.

 

ExhilarinExhilarin® by Metagenics – This formula provides a proprietary blend of time tested Ayurvedic adaptogenic botanicals in support of cognitive function and a strategic stress response. The formula includes Holy Basil, Ashwagandha, Amla and Bacopa. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formula.  

References:
How stress affects your health. http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/stress.aspx
Seniors. The American Institute of Stress. http://www.stress.org/seniors/
Metabolism: Does stress really shorten your life? https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/biology-aging/metabolism-does-stress-really-shorten-your-life
Stimulating effect of adaptogens. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16261511
Astragalus. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/astragalus