Tag Archives: S-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy by Designs for Health

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/

 

 

The Impact of Environmental Mold on Your Good Health

MoldHealthJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Mold. Just the thought of it makes people cringe. Yet, molds grow naturally in the environment and are necessary for the breakdown of organic plant and animal matter. Mold is actually a type of fungus that is neither plant nor animal, nor a type of bacteria. Fungi, which occupies a kingdom of their own as a separate types of living organisms, includes not only molds, but also yeast, mushrooms, lichen and truffles. Molds are responsible for medications such as penicillin and cyclosporine, as well as foods such as tempeh and blue cheese. Without yeast we would have no leavened bread or wine or beer. While some of these organisms offer benefits, others wreak havoc on the ecosystem and human health. Fungi is known to cause illness and diseases linked to allergies, respiratory problems and skin infections.

Mold pollution is a key element of indoor air pollution. Long-term exposure to indoor molds is unhealthy for everyone, as indoor molds can produce extremely potent lipid-soluble mycotoxins that are readily absorbed by the skin, airways and intestinal lining. While the type and severity of health effects varies widely from person to person, those with respiratory conditions, allergies, asthma, and compromised immune systems, as well as the young and the elderly are more likely to develop severe symptoms. Molds grow and reproduce by releasing spores into the air, and can grow on virtually any surface when moisture and oxygen are present. Mold grows in obvious places, such as damp basements and shower stalls, and can also grow in damp areas behind wallpaper or drywall, under carpet, ceiling tiles, sinks or appliances, on wood, around plumbing, and anywhere humidity levels are high. Mold spores can enter a home or building through open doors, windows or vents and can be carried indoors on shoes, clothing and pets.

As mold is virtually everywhere, we are constantly exposed to airborne microscopic spores. Health problems that can occur from mold exposure include allergic illness, irritant effects, infection, and toxic effects. Per the CDC, in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found sufficient evidence to link indoor mold exposure to general upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughs, and wheezing in otherwise healthy persons. Other studies suggest potential early mold exposure is linked to the development of asthma in children, particularly those genetically susceptible to asthma development. While the effects of mold on health continue to be studied, a 2003 environmental medicine symposium in Dallas presented results of a study of 1,600 individuals suffering health issues related to fungal exposure. Patients experienced medical problems including muscle and joint pain, headache, anxiety, depression, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, and memory, immune, and visual disturbances.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by microfungi that are capable of causing disease. Though difficult to classify due to their diverse chemical structures and biosynthetic origins, they are typically categorized by the organs they effect, such as hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, and immunotoxins. Cell biologists group them as mutagens, carcinogens, allergens and teratogens. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), many occupants of modern, sealed, airconditioned buildings, especially water-damaged ones, have reported adverse health effects. Exposure to fungi in home and work environments is an increasing area of concern. Although much more research is needed, there is sufficient evidence from human and animal epidemiological data to conclude that mycotoxins pose an important danger to human health.

Exposure to mycotoxins occurs more frequently in areas with a hot and humid climate favorable to the growth of molds, but they can also be found in temperate zones. Per the World Health Organization, (WHO), mycotoxicosis, the effects of mycotoxins on human and animal health, often remains unrecognized by medical professionals, except when large number of people are involved. Currently, there are no accepted standards for environmental molds in indoor environments or for analyzing and interpreting data regarding their effects on human health. However, the IOM identified damp indoor spaces as a public health problem that needs to be addressed, and highly recommended that any type of mold present in homes or buildings be quickly remediated.

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

S-Acetyl Glutathione...S-Acetyl Glutathione Synergy by Designs for Health®: Comprised of three amino acids, glutathione is the single most powerful antioxidant produced and recycled by the body. It’s made in the liver, the organ most responsible for detoxification. As natural production decreases with aging, boosting glutathione levels allows the body to detoxify, protects DNA from damage, and helps maintain optimal immunity. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Mold Mix #1 (A-21)Mold Mix #1 by Dynamic Nutritional Associates: This homeopathic antigen medicine is specifically formulated to address allergic reactions resulting from exposure to toxic metabolites. The formula provides a blend of homeopathic dilutions to neutralize the body’s response to, as well as moderate the symptoms caused by this type of allergen.

 

MycoCan-ChordMycoCan-Chord by Energetix: This homeopathic combination formula addresses symptoms associated with candida and exposure to mold or fungus, as well as the symptoms of imbalanced terrain in which mold, fungi and candida thrive. Gluten free formulation.

 

Toxic Fungi - Mold...Toxic Fungi-Mold Nosode by Professional Complementary Health Formulas: This professional homeopathic nosode formulation supports improved resistance to and recovery from toxic fungi and mold exposure. Used throughout homeopathy’s history, nosodes may assist the body in recognizing a disease-causing entity and may stimulate a level of natural protection that aids in the elimination of the pathogen or susceptibility towards symptoms. Gluten and soy free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Purify Coconut...Purify Coconut Charcoal + by Enzymedica®: This product assists the body’s natural detoxification process by aiding capture and elimination of undesirable toxins and heavy metals. The gentle absorbing action of ginger, enzymes, and coconut charcoal render this cleanse gas and indigestion free. Gluten, soy, casein, milk and artificial ingredient free.

References:
Fungus Vs. Mold. https://sciencing.com/fungus-vs-mold-5529716.html
Indoor Molds. http://enhs.umn.edu/current/5103/molds/harmful.html
Mold. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/mold/index.cfm
Mold and Moisture. http://www.floridahealth.gov/Environmental-Health/mold/index.html
Facts about Mold and Dampness. https://www.cdc.gov/mold/dampness_facts.htm
Mycotoxins. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164220/
The effects of mycotoxins in humans. http://www.who.int/bulletin/archives/77(9)754.pdf

 

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