Tag Archives: Tart Cherry Ultra by Enzymatic Therapy

Can a Healthy Lifestyle Reverse Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation?

InflammationJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

As part of the body’s immune response, acute inflammation is the beginning of the biological healing process. A central component of innate immunity, inflammation is a local response to pathogens and injured tissue. Per the British Journal of Nutrition, acute inflammation is “marked by increased blood flow, capillary dilation, leukocyte (white blood cell) infiltration and the localized production of a host of chemical mediators,” all in pursuit of the identification and destruction of toxic agents and the repair of damaged tissue. Generally considered to be a protective mechanism, the trouble begins when anti-inflammatory mediators don’t resolve, and pro-inflammatory pathways don’t switch off. The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines plays a critical role in the body’s response to an inflammatory stimulus.

Low grade inflammation is defined as a two to four-fold increase in circulating levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, as well as other markers of immune activity. Chronic inflammation can occur when the body sends an inflammatory response to a perceived threat when a response is unwarranted, or can result from a failure to eliminate the cause of acute inflammation. The association between chronic low-grade systemic inflammation and chronic disease development is well recognized, yet the question as to why the immune system goes awry, signaling attacks on and destruction of its own healthy tissues, remains unclear. Obesity, bacteria; and the western lifestyle, characterized by sedentary habits, sleep deprivation, and a diet rich in industrially refined foods, are considered likely contributors to systemic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can remain silent and symptomless and persist for years until a serious disease presents itself. Elevated unresolved inflammation can affect the body’s organs and tissues, and lead to conditions such as chronic sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as some cancers and Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Crohn’s diseases. The American Heart Association recommends blood tests that measure levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation. Elevated levels of CRP are linked to plaque formation and a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease.

Scientists have found that obese people have higher levels of white blood cells, and ultimately, persistent inflammation. Studies also show that reducing inflammation through weight loss, along with modifiable dietary and lifestyle factors, may offer a disease-prevention strategy. Certain foods, supplements and nutraceuticals are known to target a range of compounds associated with inflammation. Astaxanthin, omega-3 essential fatty acids, and turmeric may help to slowly reduce or prevent inflammation without the side effects of anti-inflammatory OTC formulations and pharmaceuticals.

-Substantial evidence suggests that foods and nutrients, such as those found in a Mediterranean style diet, help to modulate both acute and chronic inflammation.

-Foods that help reduce inflammation include fatty fish, berries, leafy greens, nuts, olives and spices, including ginger, rosemary, cinnamon, garlic and turmeric.

-Foods that fuel inflammation include fried foods, red and processed meats, sugary foods and refined carbohydrates.

-Moderate intensity physical activity can improve weight and cholesterol, enhance cardiac and lung functions, calm stress and reduce inflammation by the release of hormones that decrease production of immune substances.

-Sleeping for fewer than six or more than eight hours nightly is associated with higher levels of C-reactive protein. Although sleep requirements vary, as a general rule, aim for the optimal amount of sleep.

-Omega-3 essential fatty acids are associated with lower levels of proinflammatory markers. An Ohio State University study showed that daily consumption of omega-3’s reduced acute and chronic inflammation, as well as anxiety in a group of young healthy people.

-Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory, has been shown to cool the fires of the inflammatory process in peer reviewed scientific studies.

-Tart cherries’ powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to significantly reduce levels of key inflammatory markers.

– B vitamin insufficiency can harm the lining of the blood vessels through increased clotting, oxidative stress, and interactions with white blood cells. Magnesium deficiency is also thought to play a role in chronic inflammation, and those deficient in vitamin A are more likely to have a prolonged inflammatory response.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality supplements in support of a normal inflammatory response and overall health:

Astaxanthin 4 mgAstaxanthin 4 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: Derived from Hawaiian microalgae cultivated under pristine and highly controlled conditions, this powerful antioxidant naturally supports skin, macula, joint, immune and cardiovascular health. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO formulation.

 

ProOmega Lemon 1000...ProOmega® Lemon 1000 mg by Nordic Naturals: Clinically shown to provide high intensity, therapeutic support with high levels of pure omega-3 fatty acids, this deep-sea fish oil provides support for cardiovascualar, liver, joint, immune, brain and eye health, as well as a healthy natural inflammatory response. Gluten free, no artificial ingredients.

 

Tart Cherry UltraTart Cherry Ultra by Enzymatic Therapy: Tart cherries provide anthocyanins, beneficial antioxidant phytonutrients known to inhibit oxidative damage. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, sugar, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Vitamin A 10, 000 I...Vitamin A 10,000 IU by Douglas Laboratories: One softgel provides 10,000 IU of vitamin A palmitate in support of eye and cellular health, and a healthy immune response. Contains soy and fish oil.

 

Active B-ComplexActive B-Complex by Integrative Therapeutics: Active B-Complex provides a full complement of bioavailable B vitamins in support of numerous biochemical processes that support good health and bodily function. Gluten, dairy, sugar, yeast and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Chelated Magnesium ...Chelated Magnesium by Douglas Laboratories: One tablet provides 100 mg of elemental magnesium in the form of magnesium amino acid chelate for optimum absorption and assimilation in the body.

 

 
References:
Low-grade inflammation, diet composition and health: current research evidence and its translation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4579563/
Lifestyle factors and inflammation: associations by body mass index. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23844105
Inflammation. http://www.wwu.edu/depts/healthyliving/pe511info/infection/description.html
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/Autoimmune/default.asp
Physical Activity & Hypokinetic Disease. http://www.wwu.edu/depts/healthyliving/pe511info/infection/Causes.html
Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423.php
Lifestyle Approaches That Calm Inflammation. http://www.clevelandheartlab.com/blog/lifestyle-approaches-calm-inflammation/

 

 

 

Got Inflammation? There’s a Diet for That

antiinflammatorydietJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Chronic inflammation may slowly simmer for weeks or years without awareness that the body is inflamed, yet the implications of systemic chronic inflammation are clear. Persistent, low-grade inflammation is potentially damaging to long term good health. Chronic inflammation is the underlying factor in the development of a range of chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, irritable bowel, cancer, and cardiovascular, lung, autoimmune and cognitive diseases, as well as allergies, acne, migraines and depression. While genetic predisposition, aging, obesity, stress and lifestyle factors may all contribute to chronic inflammation, dietary choices play a huge role in influencing the inflammatory process.

Healing chronic inflammation begins with not only with food, but with an overall healthy lifestyle. Getting sufficient sleep, exercising regularly, reducing stress, limiting alcohol consumption, and of course, not smoking all go hand in hand with a healthy diet. Although many do lose weight when they follow it, an anti-inflammatory diet is not a diet per se, as there’s no calorie counting or calorie restrictions. What you are likely to discover is a general feeling of wellbeing, improved focus, increased energy, clearer skin, a healthier body image and more restful sleep. Better yet, a dramatic reduction of unhealthy sugar and carb cravings, more balanced hormones, a sunnier outlook and optimized long term health.

Similar to the Mediterranean diet, the anti-inflammatory diet was developed by Andrew Weil, a Harvard-educated doctor and pioneer in the field of integrative medicine. Based on the belief that certain foods are either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory, the diet’s goal is to combat inflammation and strengthen physical and mental health, while providing steady energy and reducing the risks of developing age-related chronic illnesses. The diet helps to stabilize blood sugar with low-glycemic meals that place a heavy emphasis on phytonutrient- and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, complex carbs including whole grains, beans and legumes, healthy fats from olive oil, avocados and nuts and several servings a week of omega-3 rich cold-water fish in lieu of red meat and poultry.

The diet aims to combat chronic inflammation by increasing the intake of inflammation-reducing food components, while decreasing the amount of inflammation-promoting foods. As there are no strict meal plans, the diet is easy to follow and provides plenty of flexibility for cooking at home or dining out. The general goal to is have meals that consist of 40-50% complex carbs, 30% healthy fats and 20-30% lean proteins. Additionally, the diet recommends drinking plenty of water and provides lots of fiber from whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. A moderate amount of alcohol, especially red wine is allowed, but processed, fried and sugar laden foods are not.

Foods to include:

Plant foods contain numerous anti-inflammatory elements including minerals, antioxidants, carotenoids, lycopene, resveratrol and other phytonutrients that discourage inflammation and provide fiber and nutrients for good overall health. Include dark, leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables which tend to have higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting phytochemicals.

Berries, tart cherries and other fruits are high in antioxidants and anthocyanins, powerful anti-inflammatory chemicals.

Garlic and onions high sulfur content provides immune-boosting nutrients along with anti-inflammatory compounds, including quercetin and allicin that help fight free radical damage.

Baked or broiled fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines, high in inflammation-reducing omega-3’s, should be eaten several times a week. Omega-3 fish oil supplements should be considered by those who are not particularly fond of fish.

Whole grains contain fiber, which keeps blood sugar steady and reduces blood levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation.

Nuts provide fiber, nutrients, antioxidants and alpha-linoleic acid, an inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acid.

Spices such as ginger, rosemary and turmeric not only add flavor but provide active anti-inflammatory components or immune modulators that help reduce inflammation caused by overactive immune responses.

Foods to avoid:

High glycemic index foods and drinks, including those high in added sugars and simple refined carbohydrates, such as chips, pretzels and flour-based foods, that increase inflammation along with blood sugar.

Red meat, processed foods and unhealthy partially hydrogenated vegetables oils that are high in pro-inflammatory markers, including omega-6 essential fatty acids that encourage inflammation.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other fine products to support a normal inflammatory response and overall wellness:

Peak Omega-3 Liquid...Peak Omega-3 Liquid Fish Oil by Wiley’s Finest Wild Alaskan Fish Oil20% OFF Just one teaspoon provides a concentrated dose of pure, great tasting, liquid fish oil. This 100% American made high quality fish oil is sustainably sourced from wild Alaskan pollock and is naturally preserved with certified Non-GMO mixed tocopherols. Molecularly distilled to ensure purity. Natural lemon flavor. Gluten free with no artificial ingredients.

 

Pro RedsPro Reds by Nutritional Frontiers – Convenient and easy-to-use, this proprietary powdered formula is designed to boost energy and support the body’s antioxidant defense systems. A single scoop of this tasty berry blend provides 5 servings of high ORAC value antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. Gluten, dairy and soy free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Advanced Bio...Advanced Bio-Curcumin® with Ginger and Turmerones by Life Extension 15% OFF This potent, bioavailable formula provides BCM-95® curcumin extract along with standardized ginger extract for increased absorption and a healthy inflammatory response.

 

Tart Cherry UltraTart Cherry Ultra by Enzymatic Therapy – This formula provides beneficial antioxidant and anthocyanin anti-inflammatory compounds that may help prevent blood vessel damage and may be useful in fighting chronic inflammation linked to chronic disease. Gluten, dairy and soy free, vegetarian formula.

 

Vitamin C with...Vitamin C with Quercetin by Integrative Therapeutics – This synergistic formula provides enhanced support for the maintenance of proper immune balance. Ingredients include quercetin, citrus bioflavonoids and bromelain. Gluten, dairy and soy free, vegetarian formula.

References:
Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms & Anti-inflammatory Diet. http://www.livescience.com/52344-inflammation.html
Dr. Weil’s Anti-Inflammatory Diet. http://health.usnews.com/best-diet/anti-inflammatory-diet
Influencing Inflammation. http://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/diets-weight-loss/influencing-inflammation/
14 Foods That Fight Inflammation. http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20705881,00.html/view-all#ginger-and-turmeric-0
Top 15 Anti-Inflammatory Foods. https://draxe.com/anti-inflammatory-foods/
8 Food Ingredients That Can Cause Inflammation. http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/foods-to-avoid-limit/food-ingredients-and-inflammation-6.php

The Health Benefits of Tart Cherry

TartCherriesJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

Many of us can recall summer days and the sweet, dark, delicious Bing cherries that summer brings. Montmorency tart or sour cherries are also grown in summer but you are not likely to find fresh ones in your grocery store. Rather they are found frozen, canned, dried, powdered, juiced and as a supplement. As their name implies tart cherries are not a sweet fruit and, as such, these superfruits may not get the attention they deserve. While all fruits contain fiber and beneficial compounds, tart cherries are not just your ordinary fruit. Tart cherries contain an abundance of nutrients including fiber, vitamins A and C, folate, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium.

Published scientific studies have shown that these cherries contain an abundance of synergistic bioactive compounds and powerhouse phytochemicals known as anthocyanins, which give cherries their bright red color and are known for their effective and substantial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Plants produce anthocyanins as protective mechanisms against environmental stressors such as cold, drought, pathogens and ultraviolet rays. Epidemiological studies strongly suggest that consumption of naturally occurring plant compounds offer protection against the development of cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative diseases.

Broad spectrum health benefits of tart cherries include:

Antioxidant compoundsTart cherries have very high amounts of high ORAC value antioxidants, surpassing even blueberries and strawberries. Antioxidants are considered to be cancer protective and essential in the fight against free radicals and oxidation.

Anti-Inflammatory propertiesResearch suggests that anthocyanin’s anti-inflammatory properties may help prevent blood vessel damage and may be useful in fighting chronic inflammation linked to heart disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes and many other diseases. Tart cherries have been found to be useful in the relief of inflammation induced pain.

Insomnia – Tart cherries have naturally high levels of melatonin, a hormone responsible for the regulation of the body’s circadian rhythm and the sleep-wake cycle. Studies have shown that as a natural sleep aid, tart cherry may benefit sleep duration, sleep quality and the management of restless sleep.

Gout prevention – Tart cherries have been shown to help reduce uric acid levels that cause the pain and inflammation associated with gout and may be helpful in reducing the frequency of gout attacks.

Improved exercise recoveryStudies have shown that tart cherry juice may decrease muscle pain and weakness associated with exercise, intense strength training, long-distance running or high intensity cycling and provide faster recovery, reduced inflammation and less oxidative stress.

Heart healthStudies show that tart cherries may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides and reduce inflammation, all of which supports cardiovascular health. A high intake of anthocyanins is associated with enhanced cardiovascular health support.

Arthritis and joint pain – Because of their high anti-inflammatory properties, tart cherries may help reduce inflammatory pain associated with arthritis. One study showed that tart cherry anthocyanins were as effective as OTC medications in suppressing the COX enzymes associated with inflammation.

Professional Supplement Center carries these high quality products that contain beneficial anthocyanin compounds:

Tart Cherry

 

Tart Cherry by Carlson Labs – Two capsules provide 1,000 mg of Montmorency tart cherry concentrate in support of antioxidant protection, healthy joint function and reduced recovery time after vigorous exercise. Gluten free, vegetarian formula.

Tart Cherry Ultra

 

Tart Cherry Ultra by Enzymatic Therapy – This beneficial flavonoid compound provides 1.2 g of tart cherry skin concentrate per serving. Gluten, soy and dairy free, vegetarian formula.

 

Recancostat® 400 mgRecancostat® 400 mg by Integrative Therapeutics – This clinically studied, patented blend of stabilized reduced glutathione (GSH), anthocyanins and L-cysteine supports healthy cell development, blocks free radical damage and supports the body’s normal DNA repair processes. Gluten, soy and dairy free.

 

Tart Cherry Extract

 

Tart Cherry Extract by Life Extension – This 100% natural CherryPURE® tart cherry extract contains a clinically studied dose of standardized 40 mg anthocyanins per capsule. Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

References
Tart Cherries. Summary of Current Scientific Literature. http://ncnm.edu/images/Helfgott/Projects/scientific-literature-summary-cherries-2011.pdf
Processed tart cherry products-comparative phytochemical content, in vitro antioxidant capacity and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23163942
The effect of 100% tart cherry juice on serum uric acid levels, biomarkers of inflammation and cardiovascular disease risk factors. http://www.fasebj.org/cgi/content/meeting_abstract/25/1_MeetingAbstracts/339.2?sid=9b969204-e099-4d63-a86d-81e8271e2bd8
Cherry consumption and decreased risk of recurrent gout attacks. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23023818
Effect of tart cherry juice on melatonin levels and enhanced sleep quality. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22038497/
Tart Cherries Relieve Osteoarthritis Pain. http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/tart-cherries-relieve-osteoarthritis-pain
Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835915/