Tag Archives: Turmero Active™ (K-75) by Apex Energetics

Natural Anti-Inflammatories for Pain Relief

Pain_ReliefJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN

There are actually millions of us who experience the occasional discomfort of acute pain, such as a seemingly sudden back ache or muscle soreness after exercise, which may be a normal consequence of strain or overuse. Then there are those who have steady, constant and sometimes debilitating chronic pain, which can be the result of an accident or health conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or a serious infection. Pain is largely the result of inflammation, which is part of the body’s natural immune response to injury or disease as defenses kick in to protect and heal the body. Typically, pro-inflammatory cytokines play a well established essential role in the inflammatory and neuropathic pain signaling processes.  

For relief of inflammation-induced sporadic pain, many of us are quick to pop an OTC anti-inflammatory product that is generally recognized as safe. Alternately, severe chronic pain may necessitate diagnosis and treatment and may result in pharmaceutical prescription medications for relief, which often carry an array of possible side effects, including addiction and gastrointestinal problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, some side effects can be life threatening, including a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and acute renal failure. In fact, the National Kidney Foundation asserts that the substantial overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is directly related 10% of kidney failures each year.

Because of the real health and safety concerns of side effects regarding the long-term use of both OTC and prescription medications for chronic and degenerative pain conditions, there is a greater interest in herbal remedies and dietary supplements that can reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways in a similar pattern as NSAIDs. Alternative treatments for occasional pain might also include rest, chiropractic adjustments, massage or acupuncture and when the time is right, yoga, tai chi or other muscle strengthening exercises to reduce pain and enhance the quality of life.

Those seeking an alternative solution for temporary pain may want to consider natural anti-inflammatory compounds, which contain ingredients that have been effectively used for centuries to reduce pain and inflammation without undesirable side effects. Some may require patience for optimal results. Although non-steroidal medications can be effective, herbs and dietary supplements may offer a safer, and often an effective, alternative treatment for pain relief, especially for long-term use.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids – Research has shown that EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, are effective natural anti-inflammatory agents. The American Heart Association recommends fish oil supplements for prevention of vascular inflammation, an underlying cause of coronary artery disease. Many positive clinical studies have shown fish oil to significantly reduce joint tenderness and stiffness in arthritic persons, which may lead to a reduction in NSAID use.

Curcumin – Derived from turmeric, curcumin has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines as an effective anti-inflammatory agent. As a result of its long history and its demonstrated effect on inflammatory pathways, curcumin is considered a viable natural alternative to non-steroidal agents for pain relief and treatment of inflammation.

Pycnogenol – This maritime pine bark has also been used since ancient times for healing and reducing inflammation. Because it naturally contains a potent blend of polyphenols, pycnogenol is considered one of the most effective antioxidant compounds.

White willow bark – Similar to pycnogenol, white willow bark is one of the oldest herbal remedies for pain and inflammation. Its use dates back to ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek and Indian civilizations. White willow bark action has shown to have an efficacy similar to aspirin in that it blocks inflammatory prostaglandins, without the possible side effects of long-term aspirin use.  

MSM – Methylsulfonylmethane, an organic sulfur compound, has many therapeutic benefits. Among these is its high degree of success in treating chronic pain caused by arthritis, muscle aches, sports and personal injuries and fibromyalgia. MSM has been shown to safely and effectively fight inflammation and reduce or eliminate muscle soreness, stiffness and cramping.

As with any dietary supplement, if you are pregnant, nursing or taking medications, always consult with your health care provider prior to starting any new regimen. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have about any of our dietary supplements.  

OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720OmegaGenics EPA-DHA 720 by Metagenics – This product provides a healthy balance of highly concentrated, pure omega-3 essential fatty acids. Sourced from cold water marine lipids and produced in Norway at a licensed pharmaceutical plant, these natural lemon flavored softgels are stabilized with natural antioxidants to ensure freshness. Gluten, soy and dairy free, Non-GMO formulation.

MSM powderMSM Powder by Pure Encapsulations – This patented MSM product contains 99.7% pure elemental sulfur, a naturally occurring organic compound that promotes healthy joints and provides crucial connective tissue support. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian product.

Turmero Active (K-75)Turmero™ Active (K-75) by Apex Energetics – This liquid herbal formula provides a unique source of 95% concentrated curcuminoids in an emulsified micronized structure. The formula includes black pepper extract for enhanced utilization. Easily administered by oral syringe included with product. Natural orange flavor.

Pycnogenol 100 mg
Pycnogenol® 100 mg by PhysioLogics – One rapid-release capsule delivers 100 mg of pure natural plant extract obtained from French maritime pine bark grown in southwest France. Gluten, soy and dairy free formula.

 

TraumericTraumeric by Ortho Molecular – This natural anti-inflammatory product contains a synergistic blend of standardized turmeric root extract, bromelain, quercetin and rutin, which work to limit the action of certain impeding enzymes in the inflammation pathways in order to reduce acute inflammation.

 

References:
Natural anti-inflammatory agents for pain relief. Online. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011108/
Choosing Natural Supplements for Arthritis Pain Relief. Online. http://www.healthnews.com/en/news/Choosing-Natural-Supplements-for-Arthritis-Pain-Relief/3KLokZr8H7SPvXriP7RZUd/
Pain In America. Online. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/chronic_pain/chronic_pain.htm#Is_there_any_treatment
What is inflammation? What causes inflammation. Online. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423.php#why_does_inflammation_cause_pain

Lifestyle Strategies For Longevity

LifestyleStrategiesJacquieIconBy Jacquie Eubanks
BSN, RN
 

I’m betting most of us would rather live a shorter but healthier life than a longer unhealthy one.  Ideally, many would choose a longer, healthier life.  The goal of anti-aging or healthy aging strategies is to be healthier, look younger and feel lighter and more energetic.  Life spans are increasing in the U.S., thanks in part to steady improvements in healthcare and living conditions.  Age-related chronic diseases, which can negatively impact the quality of life, are also on the rise.  Longevity is related to our genetics but a lot depends on personal choices and lifestyle factors, which impact health and wellness.  Sustainable anti-aging strategies are meant to develop over time, as trying to make too many changes too quickly can turn out to be more stressful than helpful.  We all have the power to alter our daily habits to achieve major benefits that directly affect our quality of life. 

What happens to our bodies as we age?

  • The body begins to lose muscle strength and flexibility, increasing the chances of musculoskeletal fatigue and injury. 
  • The metabolic rate slows, making it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight. 
  • The motor nerves begin to deteriorate, slowing reaction time and affecting balance and eye-hand coordination.
  • Calcium loss increases over time, weakening the bones and increasing fracture risk.
  • The body’s ability to process glucose declines, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. 
  • Blood pressure steadily increases.
  • The ratio of good (HDL) to bad (LDL) cholesterol increases in favor of LDL cholesterol. 
  • The immune system’s ability to ward off disease is weakened.
  • Vision grows weaker and hearing ability declines. 
  • Mild or severe cognitive impairment may occur. 
  • As the cells’ ability to divide and multiply reach their lifetime limit, cell death results and organ function gradually declines.  
  • Mitochondria that supply energy to the cells becomes less efficient. 

Wow, sounds scary.  The good news is that Baby Boomers and Gen X-ers are redefining the concept of healthy aging with the realization that you can do a lot to delay the onset of these side effects of aging.  Disease is not inevitable, as we make our own choices about our environment, our diet and our lifestyle, which all influence our health.  Is now the time for you to take control of your own wellness?  It’s never too early or too late to begin a program of rejuvenation by paying attention to your physical, mental and social fitness.  Focus on prevention, as aging is inevitable but succumbing to age-related disease is not.  Engage in life through physical, social and productive activities. 

Small, sustainable changes can lead to measurable gains in life quality. 

  • Being socially engaged has a positive effect on overall wellness.  Studies show that social interactions, such as staying in touch with family and friends, pursuing interests and volunteering, improve quality of life both physically and mentally. 
  • Staying active within the community and participating in local events can provide significant gains in vitality and maintaining independence.
  • It’s official.  Regular exercise is a key to aging well.  People who exercise live longer, healthier lives than those who are sedentary. Exercise, even in small doses, increases muscle and bone strength and improves memory.  Strength training improves neuromuscular control, reducing the chances of injury.  Keeping exercise simple and choosing a program that can be done anywhere, such as walking or biking, is key to sustainability. 
  • Good nutrition not only improves life quality, it also improves the chances of an increased lifespan.  Avoiding added sugar and refined carbs, and adding one more fruit and vegetable to your daily meals is a good starting point. 
  • Practice stress reduction by doing anything you find relaxing, such as reading a book, listening to music, or deep breathing exercises. 
  • Maintaining a healthy weight can help protect against heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.  Belly fat is particularly harmful.  Exercise and a healthy high fiber diet helps to reduce belly fat. 
  • Keep your brain active and your mind sharp by switching up your routines or trying something new.  Learning and tackling new challenges helps to ward off cognitive decline.  Healthy aging means continually reinventing yourself, adapting to change and finding things to enjoy. 
  • Supplements that can provide healthy aging benefits include antioxidants to help protect cells and prevent oxidative damage, ubiquinol for cardiovascular health support, omega-3 fatty acids for overall health and brain function and turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Products for healthy aging include:

Anti-Oxidant 2.0
 
Anti-Oxidant 2.0 by Vital Nutrients provides an exceptional blend of antioxidants in a highly synergistic formula.  Additionally, a proprietary blend of valuable phytonutrients adds 21,300 ORAC value per serving. 
 
 
UBQH™Ubiquinol 100 mg
 
UBQH™ Ubiquinol 100 mg by Integrative Therapeutics  provides CoQ10 in a readily absorbable, active antioxidant formula for support of cellular energy, cardiovascular health and overall wellness.
 
 
OmegAvail Marine
 
OmegAvail Marine by Designs for Health provides molecularly distilled omega-3 fish oil with guaranteed purity.  The inclusion of lipase ensures enhanced digestion and absorption.  These very pure fish oil softgels are naturally lemon flavored and are free of heavy metals, environmental pollutants and oxidative impurities.   
 
Turmero Active (K-75...
 
Turmero Active™ (K-75) by Apex Energetics provides 400 mg per serving of turmeric extract standardized  to 95% curcuminoids for immune and wellness support.