There’s no need to panic when you hear alarming news reports about the latest flu strain. Nature offers plenty of ways to stay well during the winter months. Here are some simple but effective strategies:
1. Vitamin C and Honey
A combination of vitamin C complex and 1 teaspoon of raw honey in the morning and evening will help to keep you healthy year-round, but is especially valuable during the winter, says Mark Moyad, MD, director of prevention and alternative medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor. “They have a synergistic effect,” he says 1000 milligrams of vitamin C complex daily should suffice.
2. Healthy Fats and Fiber
“A diverse intake of healthy fats and fiber will reduce inflammation,” says Moyad, “allowing the immune cells to go and fight an infection.” Good fat sources include cold-water fish or 1,000 milligrams daily of omega-3s from fish oil supplements. For a combination of healthful fats and fiber, include 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seed or 2 to 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed in your daily diet. Fiber also feeds friendly bacteria in your digestive system.
3. Vitamin D
“Vitamin D switches on a gene that makes a natural antiviral and antibiotic substance in our bodies,” says Moyad. It’s a must for prevention and, if you do get sick, to speed recovery. Adults should get 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily. The colder it gets the more vitamin D your body uses.
4. Probiotics
Healthful or “friendly” bacteria, probiotics prevent bugs from taking up residence in the gut, which is vulnerable to invaders. “The largest number of immune cells are found in the digestive system, from the stomach to the colon,” says Moyad. “Probiotics boost immune response.” He recommends eating yogurt with active cultures or taking probiotic supplements with at least 5 billion colony forming units per daily serving.
5. Astragalus
Used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, astragalus is an adaptogen that strengthens your body’s resistance to disease. “It helps your body adapt to changes and stresses in the environment. Look for a standardized extract and follow product directions.
6. Echinacea
Native Americans used Echinacea to cure all manner of diseases for hundreds of years, but today, the herb is mainly used to treat colds and flu. To stay healthy during winter months, take a low dose of 50 to 150 milligrams daily.
7. Beta-Glucan
Found in some grains, mushrooms, and yeasts, beta-glucan is most often taken to lower cholesterol. However, it also protects against viral infection. Therapeutic amounts range from 3 to 15 grams daily.
8. Homeopathy
When flu-like symptoms appear, try Oscillococcinum, the pleasant-tasting crystals melt in your mouth. Clinical studies have shown that Oscillo reduces the duration and intensity of flu symptoms. It must be taken in the first 24 hours of flu symptoms.
9. Elderberry
A centuries-old remedy for respiratory problems, elderberry has been validated by science. In particular, a proprietary extract of black elderberry (Sambucol) has been shown to speed recovery from flu. For example, in a study published in The Journal of International Medical Research, when taken within 48 hours of symptoms appearing, the extract reduced flu duration by four days. And, those taking elderberry needed less pain medication.
10. Chicken Soup Cure
The old wives’ tale cure has scientific proof; some studies have shown that chicken soup contains a number of substances with anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Spice up your soup with garlic, cayenne, and turmeric; all have immune enhancing properties.
11. Munch on Raw Almonds
They’re rich in vitamin E, which enhances the body’s production of immune cells that destroy bacteria. Other good sources include raw sunflower seeds, spinach, turnip greens, and tomato sauce; have at least a serving a day. For maximum protection, take a vitamin E supplement; in one study, people who took 400 IU of vitamin E per day got fewer colds and upper respiratory ailments.
12. Be Happy.
A sunny disposition seems to make us sturdier. A recent study found that people who were negative, moody, nervous, and easily stressed had a weaker immune response. Write a daily list of 10 things you’re grateful for to change your outlook. And smile, even if you don’t mean it. It can boost your mood—fast.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Quinoa and It's Wonderful Benefits
The United Nations declares this obscure plant a superfood with a protein value equal to that of milk; and NASA places it high on its list of possible foods to be used for longer-term manned spaceflights.
Historically, quinoa has had a multitude of uses beyond its culinary status. The Incas used it to treat liver and urinary tract problems, tuberculosis. appendicitis, and altitude and motion sickness.
However, the true overwhelming value of this ancient grain lies in the fact that it is a complete protein and is gluten free! Unlike “true” grains, such as wheat and oats, this seed of a leafy plant related to spinach and tumbleweed contains all nine essential amino acids for protein utilization, thus making it a unique non-animal protein source. Vegans everywhere should rejoice at the rediscovery of this amazing food!
Quinoa offers an especially generous dose of the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. And significant amounts of magnesium and B2 make quinoa particularly valuable to sufferers of migraines and atherosclerosis, as they help relax blood vessels and improve energy production within cells. Like all whole-grain, high-fiber foods, quinoa provides a wide array of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks, protecting against various forms of cancer, and preventing gallstones. You’ll find that it will make a delicious and healthful addition to any meal in place of potatoes or rice or for breakfast in place of rolled or steel cut oats. Give this recipe a try:
Quinoa Breakfast Delight
1/3 cup Quinoa, rinsed
1 Tbs. Organic Honey
¼ tsp. Cinnamon
¼ cup blueberries
1 banana, sliced
1/3 cup low-fat organic milk
Combine quinoa and 2/3 cup water in small saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer covered for about 12 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in honey and cinnamon. Divide between two bowls, top with blueberries , bananas and milk.
Historically, quinoa has had a multitude of uses beyond its culinary status. The Incas used it to treat liver and urinary tract problems, tuberculosis. appendicitis, and altitude and motion sickness.
However, the true overwhelming value of this ancient grain lies in the fact that it is a complete protein and is gluten free! Unlike “true” grains, such as wheat and oats, this seed of a leafy plant related to spinach and tumbleweed contains all nine essential amino acids for protein utilization, thus making it a unique non-animal protein source. Vegans everywhere should rejoice at the rediscovery of this amazing food!
Quinoa offers an especially generous dose of the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. And significant amounts of magnesium and B2 make quinoa particularly valuable to sufferers of migraines and atherosclerosis, as they help relax blood vessels and improve energy production within cells. Like all whole-grain, high-fiber foods, quinoa provides a wide array of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks, protecting against various forms of cancer, and preventing gallstones. You’ll find that it will make a delicious and healthful addition to any meal in place of potatoes or rice or for breakfast in place of rolled or steel cut oats. Give this recipe a try:
Quinoa Breakfast Delight
1/3 cup Quinoa, rinsed
1 Tbs. Organic Honey
¼ tsp. Cinnamon
¼ cup blueberries
1 banana, sliced
1/3 cup low-fat organic milk
Combine quinoa and 2/3 cup water in small saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer covered for about 12 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in honey and cinnamon. Divide between two bowls, top with blueberries , bananas and milk.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Are You Deficient in Vitamin B-12??
Vitamin B 12 comes in several forms. Not all forms are equally effective. The most effective form is methylcobalamin. However, the most common form is cyanocobalamin, because it is easier to manufacture and is therefore less expensive.
Methylcobalamin is active in the growth and protection of the nervous system. Larger quantities are especially necessary to protect against neurological deterioration as we age. Vitamin B12 , in the methylcobalamin form, may help prevent Parkinson’s disease and slow the progression in those who already have the disease by protecting against neural toxicity caused by excess L-dopa, a probable cause of the disease. The vitamin has been shown to reverse the symptoms of such rare neurological diseases as Bell’s palsy and shows promise in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases. Very few substances are known to have any impact on regenerating damaged nerves in humans. However, a 1994 study in the Journal of Neurological Science suggested hat the methylcobalamin form of vitamin B12 could increase the synthesis of certain proteins that help regenerate nerves. The study showed that very high doses of methylocobalmin produced nerve regeneration in rats.
Vitamin B12 is needed to prevent anemia; it aids folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells, and helps in the utilization of iron. This vitamin is also required for proper digestion, absorption of foods, and the metabolism for carbohydrates and fats. It aids in cell formation and cellular longevity. In addition, vitamin B12 prevents nerve damage, maintains fertility and promotes normal growth and development by maintaining the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings.
A vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by malabsorption, which is most common in older adults and in people with digestive disorders. Deficiency can cause abnormal gait, bone loss, chronic fatigue, constipation, depression, digestive disorders, dizziness, drowsiness, enlargement of the liver, eye disorders, headaches (including migraines), inflammation of the tongue, irritability, labored breathing, memory loss, moodiness, nervousness, neurological damage, palpitations, pernicious anemia, ringing in the ears, and spinal cord degeneration.
Most studies show that taking a sublingual form of B-12 is the best way for your body to absorb the vitamin. Foods with the largest amounts of vitamin B12 are found in meats, cheese, poultry, yogurt, eggs, sea greens, nutritional yeast and fish.
As always, if there are any questions or concerns that you may have you can contact us at 419-375-2659 or e-mail us at schlarmanshealth@gmail.com!
Methylcobalamin is active in the growth and protection of the nervous system. Larger quantities are especially necessary to protect against neurological deterioration as we age. Vitamin B12 , in the methylcobalamin form, may help prevent Parkinson’s disease and slow the progression in those who already have the disease by protecting against neural toxicity caused by excess L-dopa, a probable cause of the disease. The vitamin has been shown to reverse the symptoms of such rare neurological diseases as Bell’s palsy and shows promise in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases. Very few substances are known to have any impact on regenerating damaged nerves in humans. However, a 1994 study in the Journal of Neurological Science suggested hat the methylcobalamin form of vitamin B12 could increase the synthesis of certain proteins that help regenerate nerves. The study showed that very high doses of methylocobalmin produced nerve regeneration in rats.
Vitamin B12 is needed to prevent anemia; it aids folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells, and helps in the utilization of iron. This vitamin is also required for proper digestion, absorption of foods, and the metabolism for carbohydrates and fats. It aids in cell formation and cellular longevity. In addition, vitamin B12 prevents nerve damage, maintains fertility and promotes normal growth and development by maintaining the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings.
A vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by malabsorption, which is most common in older adults and in people with digestive disorders. Deficiency can cause abnormal gait, bone loss, chronic fatigue, constipation, depression, digestive disorders, dizziness, drowsiness, enlargement of the liver, eye disorders, headaches (including migraines), inflammation of the tongue, irritability, labored breathing, memory loss, moodiness, nervousness, neurological damage, palpitations, pernicious anemia, ringing in the ears, and spinal cord degeneration.
Most studies show that taking a sublingual form of B-12 is the best way for your body to absorb the vitamin. Foods with the largest amounts of vitamin B12 are found in meats, cheese, poultry, yogurt, eggs, sea greens, nutritional yeast and fish.
As always, if there are any questions or concerns that you may have you can contact us at 419-375-2659 or e-mail us at schlarmanshealth@gmail.com!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Reversing Prediabetes
Even if you have never been diagnosed with diabetes, you may have a medical condition known as prediabetes, which is reaching epic proportions. While estimates vary, the American Diabetes Association reports that nearly 60 million people in the United States have prediabetes. Prediabetes is when a person’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. If you are prediabetic, you have a substantially increased risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, kidney disease, blindness, nerve damage, and several other serious conditions. According to The Journal of the American Medical Association, if this pace continues, Americans born in the year 2000 will have a one in three chance of developing diabetes. The good news is that this trend can be reversed.
Lifestyle Lessons
Of course, the best way to reverse prediabetes is to lose weight, and the best way to lose weight is through a combination of diet and exercise. From a dietary standpoint, research continues to confirm that fiber is a significant treatment for prediabetes. In clinical studies, a proprietary blend of selected soluble fibers known as PolyGlycopleX (PGX) significantly lowered blood sugar levels after a meal. These fibers have also been shown to help individuals lose weight. A study featured in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association demonstrated that children who ate more soluble fiber had fewer diabetes risk factors, including obesity.
Dietary modifications should be combined with consistent physical activity. The Diabetes Prevention Program study demonstrated that 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day combined with a reduction in body weight of just 5 to 10 percent, produced a 58 percent decrease in diabetes risk.
It has long been known that diet and exercise are powerful tools to reduce diabetes risk. But that’s just the beginning. You may not realize that being sleep deprived significantly increases diabetes risk. Enlightening research presented at the Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences showed that just three nights of interrupted sleep gave people in their 20s the glucose metabolism of people three times there age. When it comes to a diabetes risk, researchers say that failing to get enough deep sleep is equivalent to gaining 20 to 30 pounds.
Also this year, researchers at the University of Chicago found that there is a direct correlation between sleep loss and weight gain. The bottom line: if you want to control blood sugar and lose weight, get enough sleep.
In today’s fast-paced society, it may be tempting to try to catch up on sleep over the weekend. This new research shows that if we are sleep deprived during the week the damage is already done by the time the weekend arrives. Be sure to sleep soundly for eight hours every night.
New Favorite Spice
People who are prediabetic should spice up their diet with more cinnamon or take a cinnamon supplement. Researchers concluded that cinnamon “can reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.” Several studies have shown that cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels.
Signs of Prediabetes
Four key factors indicate risk for prediabetes:
1.Being overweight or obese. If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, you are considered obese
2.A family history of diabetes, which includes parents and/or siblings with the disease.
3. High blood pressure
4. Being over the age of 45
Prediabetes can cause fatigue, fuzzy thinking, blurred vision, frequent infections, and/or increased appetite. Increased thirst and frequent urination are classic signs of type 2 diabetes.
Supplement Support for Prediabetes
The goal with prediabetes is to lower insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that transports glucose. If we can improve the efficiency of insulin, we will burn more glucose for energy rather than storing it as a fat. Key supplements to accomplish this goal include the following:
*Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Most of the recent research with alpha-lipoic acid involves the reduction of diabetic complications such as nerve damage. Researchers from China demonstrated that alpha-lipoic acid could actually help prevent diabetes by reducing oxidative cellular damage. In addition, research shows that alpha-lipoic acid can help suppress appetite and assist with weight loss. The dosage of alpha-lipoic acid is between 100 and 200 mg three times daily.
*Chromium and Biotin. The connection between chromium supplementation and blood sugar control has been studied for years. The most recent research confirms that chromium picolinate and biotin (a B vitamin) provides the most effective combination. Yale University researchers published their placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial, clearly demonstrating that individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes received significant benefits from chromium picolinate and biotin supplementation. The researchers also observed a reduction in cholesterol levels. Daily dosage for this combination is 600 mg chromium picolinate and 2 mg biotin.
Other natural substances that can help control blood sugar levels include green tea, silymarin, garlic, and Gymnema sylvestre.
Lifestyle Lessons
Of course, the best way to reverse prediabetes is to lose weight, and the best way to lose weight is through a combination of diet and exercise. From a dietary standpoint, research continues to confirm that fiber is a significant treatment for prediabetes. In clinical studies, a proprietary blend of selected soluble fibers known as PolyGlycopleX (PGX) significantly lowered blood sugar levels after a meal. These fibers have also been shown to help individuals lose weight. A study featured in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association demonstrated that children who ate more soluble fiber had fewer diabetes risk factors, including obesity.
Dietary modifications should be combined with consistent physical activity. The Diabetes Prevention Program study demonstrated that 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day combined with a reduction in body weight of just 5 to 10 percent, produced a 58 percent decrease in diabetes risk.
It has long been known that diet and exercise are powerful tools to reduce diabetes risk. But that’s just the beginning. You may not realize that being sleep deprived significantly increases diabetes risk. Enlightening research presented at the Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences showed that just three nights of interrupted sleep gave people in their 20s the glucose metabolism of people three times there age. When it comes to a diabetes risk, researchers say that failing to get enough deep sleep is equivalent to gaining 20 to 30 pounds.
Also this year, researchers at the University of Chicago found that there is a direct correlation between sleep loss and weight gain. The bottom line: if you want to control blood sugar and lose weight, get enough sleep.
In today’s fast-paced society, it may be tempting to try to catch up on sleep over the weekend. This new research shows that if we are sleep deprived during the week the damage is already done by the time the weekend arrives. Be sure to sleep soundly for eight hours every night.
New Favorite Spice
People who are prediabetic should spice up their diet with more cinnamon or take a cinnamon supplement. Researchers concluded that cinnamon “can reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.” Several studies have shown that cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels.
Signs of Prediabetes
Four key factors indicate risk for prediabetes:
1.Being overweight or obese. If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, you are considered obese
2.A family history of diabetes, which includes parents and/or siblings with the disease.
3. High blood pressure
4. Being over the age of 45
Prediabetes can cause fatigue, fuzzy thinking, blurred vision, frequent infections, and/or increased appetite. Increased thirst and frequent urination are classic signs of type 2 diabetes.
Supplement Support for Prediabetes
The goal with prediabetes is to lower insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that transports glucose. If we can improve the efficiency of insulin, we will burn more glucose for energy rather than storing it as a fat. Key supplements to accomplish this goal include the following:
*Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Most of the recent research with alpha-lipoic acid involves the reduction of diabetic complications such as nerve damage. Researchers from China demonstrated that alpha-lipoic acid could actually help prevent diabetes by reducing oxidative cellular damage. In addition, research shows that alpha-lipoic acid can help suppress appetite and assist with weight loss. The dosage of alpha-lipoic acid is between 100 and 200 mg three times daily.
*Chromium and Biotin. The connection between chromium supplementation and blood sugar control has been studied for years. The most recent research confirms that chromium picolinate and biotin (a B vitamin) provides the most effective combination. Yale University researchers published their placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial, clearly demonstrating that individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes received significant benefits from chromium picolinate and biotin supplementation. The researchers also observed a reduction in cholesterol levels. Daily dosage for this combination is 600 mg chromium picolinate and 2 mg biotin.
Other natural substances that can help control blood sugar levels include green tea, silymarin, garlic, and Gymnema sylvestre.
Monday, October 24, 2011
A Message from Marge-November 2011
This month’s Customer Appreciation Days will occur on November 4th and 5th during regular store hours. The thought of November reminds me to have the attitude of gratitude and thankfulness. With that thought I am thankful for each of you, our neighbors, and the community we reside in. I am thankful Kari and I were able to attend the 2011 National Products Expo East Trade Show held in Baltimore, MD this past September. This was Kari’s first tradeshow for our industry and proved to be an exciting, educational, and enlightening experience. I was able to network with established experts and was introduced to new products using the latest technology from proven scientific research. I am going to introduce the new products that we found sitting on our shelves, awaiting your viewing:
- ANDALOU Naturals Fruit Stem Cell Science cares as much about the process of fair trade and sustainability as they do about enriching the lives they touch with advanced skin care products. Come and view the display by the check out counter, take the short test to determine your unique needs in advanced skin care.
- For fun and added enhancement of nails we have all the newest colors of No Miss Nail Polish that is free of formaldehyde and toluene. The polish can be safely removed with polish remover that is free of acetone and ethyl acetate.
- Food is a hot topic at home with the frequent question of what’s for dinner. Cook Simple carries a line of products that is a natural alternative to Hamburger Helper. The Cranberry Wild Rice meal will be featured this Customer Appreciation Day. This company simplifies healthy home cooking with complete nutritious meals that are gluten free, 30 minutes from stove to table.
- I also discovered Plant Fusion, nature’s most complete plant protein. It is a proprietary blend of pea, artichoke, sprouted organic amaranth, sprouted organic quinoa proteins fortified with glutamine and branch chain amino acids. This is a gluten free protein and is available in four flavors; vanilla, chocolate, chocolate raspberry, and unflavored. Sample Plant Fusion this Customer Appreciation Day!
- The last company I wish to feature is a peanut free facility offering bulk foods of premium quality and certified organic. They offer a variety of nut and dried fruit blends that are perfect for that quick snack or pick me up in the middle of the morning or afternoon. The ingredients in each of the mixes are simply unbelievable in the quality and choice of blend. All dried fruits are unsulphured. As an example the Hunza Goji Granola is sweetened with Agave Syrup and made with extra virgin coconut oil, Hunza raisins, dried mulberries, dried Goji berries, and Hunza Apricot kernels.
- For the newest arrivals in your home, we now offer PVC and PBA free sippy cups, teethers, stacking cups, and baby food mills. We also have organic cotton blankies, rattles, burp pads, as well as organic lip & cheek balm, and organic diaper balm. This company prioritizes values that protect our children and the sustainability of Earth. Parents love the assurance of growing healthy, happy, children with safe, toxic free products.
We look forward to seeing you November 4th and 5th and sharing in our excitement in offering these wonderful new products to you! Happy Thanksgiving!!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Boost Your Immunity
It’s that time again: shorter days, cooler temperatures and the beginning of the flu season. How do we survive and even thrive in this world that is teeming with microorganisms? The answer, in short, is our immune system. Composed of millions of cells circulating throughout the body, this system protects us by fighting off microscopic enemy invaders such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, fungus, and parasites. Keeping the immune system in top fighting form requires improvements in lifestyle and diet. And we can further enhance its functioning with the right dietary supplements.
Lifestyle Matters
When we are exposed to stress, our levels of a hormone called cortisol can become chronically elevated, suppressing immune activity. Therefore strong immune function depends on an effective stress-reduction program. Strategies such as exercise, yoga, and meditation have been shown to reduce both stressful feeling and to improve immunity. Adequate sleep is also essential for proper immune system function. Sleep-deprived individuals have decreased natural killer cell activity and decreased cellular immunity.
If you smoke, or overindulge in alcohol, your immune system is more likely to be impaired. The good news is that when smokers quit, their immune function improves dramatically and quickly. Within just one month of quitting, previous smokers demonstrate increased natural killer cell activity and elevations in antibody levels. Within two weeks of abstinence from alcohol, previously depressed cellular immunity improves. Within two months of sobriety, cellular immunity normalizes.
A Defensive Diet
Just like any of our bodily processes, our immune system relies upon good nutrition to function at its best. Creating a rainbow of color on your plate is one of the best ways to build a healthy immune system. By eating a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, you are consuming a full spectrum of antioxidative flavonoids. In addition to flavonoids, fruits and vegetables contain important immune-enhancing vitamins and minerals. These nutrients include zinc, vitamin E, vitamin D, sterols, and carotenes such as vitamin A and lycopene. Eat zinc-rich pumpkin seeds and almonds; vitamin E-rich wheat germ, sunflower oil, and spinach; dietary plants sterols (such as unrefined oils, nuts, seeds, and grains); and free radical-scavenging carotenes found in dark green vegetables, carrots, yams, and tomatoes. Be sure to obtain daily safe sun exposure for adequate vitamin D, and eat vitamin D-rich foods, such as cold liver oil, sardines, salmon, mackerel, and tuna.
Fat is also an essential nutrient. Saturated fats and trans fats are unhealthful and should be avoided. Better choices are polysaturated and monounsaturated fats found in vegetables and nuts and their oils. Certain fats are considered essential fatty acids, (EFA’s). Fish, especially sardines, salmon, cod, and halibut, is an excellent source of omega-3’s (EPA and DHA). Omega-3 EFAs are critical to strong immune function.
No discussion of diet and immunity would be complete without mentioning sugar. Glucose, fructose, sucrose, and any other form of sugar impair lymphocyte activity, which is essential for immunity. The average person consumes 150 g of sucrose every day. This means that most people are suppressing their immune systems by consuming sugar. If we simply decrease our sugar intake, we would experience a major decrease in colds, flu and other infections.
In addition to the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that have been shown to elicit a positive immune response, there are some excellent immune-stimulating supplements and herbs that have become my favorites:
Coenzyme Q10: Also known as ubiquinone, CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant nutrient that enhances cellular production of energy and immune function. It supports antibody production, phagocytic activity, and is especially necessary during active infection.
Echinacea: Perhaps the most widely used herb for supporting immune function, echinacea stimulates the activity of macrophages (natural killer cells) and lymphocytes, and scavenges free radicals.
Garlic: Garlic has a strong antimicrobial activities against bacteria, viruses, fungal organisms, and parasites. Aged garlic extract increases B cells antibody production, as well as the activity of macrophages, T cells, and natural killer cells.
Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria in the intestines activate immune cells, increase natural killer cell activity and are necessary in our fight against disease-causing bacteria.
Elderberry Extract: Effective against flu viruses. It enhances immune system function as it builds the blood and cleanses the system. Relieves coughs and congestion and lowers fever.
Olive Leaf Extract: Fights all types of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. It helps stave off colds and flu and is good for virtually any infectious disease.
Sovereign Silver: Probably the most universal natural antibiotic substance, it is tasteless and nontoxic. Many forms of bacteria, viruses and fungi utilize a specific enzyme for their metabolism. Silver acts as a catalyst to disable the enzyme. Importantly, the bacteria, fungi and viruses do not seem to develop an immunity to silver as they do to chemical antibiotic agents.
Lifestyle Matters
When we are exposed to stress, our levels of a hormone called cortisol can become chronically elevated, suppressing immune activity. Therefore strong immune function depends on an effective stress-reduction program. Strategies such as exercise, yoga, and meditation have been shown to reduce both stressful feeling and to improve immunity. Adequate sleep is also essential for proper immune system function. Sleep-deprived individuals have decreased natural killer cell activity and decreased cellular immunity.
If you smoke, or overindulge in alcohol, your immune system is more likely to be impaired. The good news is that when smokers quit, their immune function improves dramatically and quickly. Within just one month of quitting, previous smokers demonstrate increased natural killer cell activity and elevations in antibody levels. Within two weeks of abstinence from alcohol, previously depressed cellular immunity improves. Within two months of sobriety, cellular immunity normalizes.
A Defensive Diet
Just like any of our bodily processes, our immune system relies upon good nutrition to function at its best. Creating a rainbow of color on your plate is one of the best ways to build a healthy immune system. By eating a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, you are consuming a full spectrum of antioxidative flavonoids. In addition to flavonoids, fruits and vegetables contain important immune-enhancing vitamins and minerals. These nutrients include zinc, vitamin E, vitamin D, sterols, and carotenes such as vitamin A and lycopene. Eat zinc-rich pumpkin seeds and almonds; vitamin E-rich wheat germ, sunflower oil, and spinach; dietary plants sterols (such as unrefined oils, nuts, seeds, and grains); and free radical-scavenging carotenes found in dark green vegetables, carrots, yams, and tomatoes. Be sure to obtain daily safe sun exposure for adequate vitamin D, and eat vitamin D-rich foods, such as cold liver oil, sardines, salmon, mackerel, and tuna.
Fat is also an essential nutrient. Saturated fats and trans fats are unhealthful and should be avoided. Better choices are polysaturated and monounsaturated fats found in vegetables and nuts and their oils. Certain fats are considered essential fatty acids, (EFA’s). Fish, especially sardines, salmon, cod, and halibut, is an excellent source of omega-3’s (EPA and DHA). Omega-3 EFAs are critical to strong immune function.
No discussion of diet and immunity would be complete without mentioning sugar. Glucose, fructose, sucrose, and any other form of sugar impair lymphocyte activity, which is essential for immunity. The average person consumes 150 g of sucrose every day. This means that most people are suppressing their immune systems by consuming sugar. If we simply decrease our sugar intake, we would experience a major decrease in colds, flu and other infections.
In addition to the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that have been shown to elicit a positive immune response, there are some excellent immune-stimulating supplements and herbs that have become my favorites:
Coenzyme Q10: Also known as ubiquinone, CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant nutrient that enhances cellular production of energy and immune function. It supports antibody production, phagocytic activity, and is especially necessary during active infection.
Echinacea: Perhaps the most widely used herb for supporting immune function, echinacea stimulates the activity of macrophages (natural killer cells) and lymphocytes, and scavenges free radicals.
Garlic: Garlic has a strong antimicrobial activities against bacteria, viruses, fungal organisms, and parasites. Aged garlic extract increases B cells antibody production, as well as the activity of macrophages, T cells, and natural killer cells.
Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria in the intestines activate immune cells, increase natural killer cell activity and are necessary in our fight against disease-causing bacteria.
Elderberry Extract: Effective against flu viruses. It enhances immune system function as it builds the blood and cleanses the system. Relieves coughs and congestion and lowers fever.
Olive Leaf Extract: Fights all types of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. It helps stave off colds and flu and is good for virtually any infectious disease.
Sovereign Silver: Probably the most universal natural antibiotic substance, it is tasteless and nontoxic. Many forms of bacteria, viruses and fungi utilize a specific enzyme for their metabolism. Silver acts as a catalyst to disable the enzyme. Importantly, the bacteria, fungi and viruses do not seem to develop an immunity to silver as they do to chemical antibiotic agents.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
52nd Anniversary Schedule
Greg Brown Friday Oct. 7th 9-12 Noon
Many of you have gotten to know Greg Brown from Cincinnati over the years. He has been in the health food industry for over 25 years. He really supports what we do here at Schlarman’s and enjoys the folks in this area. Greg is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to health and good nutrition. He will be on the floor from 9-12 noon on Friday, Oct. 7th to sample products and answer any questions you may have.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lecture & Lunch
Friday Oct. 7th 12 noon
Title:
Supporting Respiratory Health this
Cold and Flu Season
Speaker:
Stacey Littlefield
Stacy is passionate about natural medicines and a firm believer of utilizing nutritious foods to improve overall health. Her enthusiasm, knowledge and expertise in the health food industry makes her a dynamic speaker. You will be glad you made the extra effort to be here!
We also are having many great specials ranging from 20 to 25% off!! Here is a list of some of the things on special this weekend:
20% OFF
Entire Line of Enzymatic
Therapy Products
20 % OFF
Entire Line of New Chapter Products
% OFF
Entire Line of Redd
Remedies Products
20% OFF
Entire Line of Barlean’s
Organic Oils
25% OFF
Seagate Olive Leaf Extract Capsules 45, 90 or 250 ct.
25% OFF
Boiron Oscillococcinum
Flu Remedy
25% OFF
American Health Chewable Acidophilus 100 wafers
Assorted Flavors
25% OFF
Pure & Basic Paraben Free Body Wash and Body
Lotions. Assorted Scents
25% OFF
Nature’s Alchemy Essential Oils—These make great stocking stuffers!
Also be sure to check out our end cap specials at the front of the store!!
Many of you have gotten to know Greg Brown from Cincinnati over the years. He has been in the health food industry for over 25 years. He really supports what we do here at Schlarman’s and enjoys the folks in this area. Greg is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to health and good nutrition. He will be on the floor from 9-12 noon on Friday, Oct. 7th to sample products and answer any questions you may have.
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Lecture & Lunch
Friday Oct. 7th 12 noon
Title:
Supporting Respiratory Health this
Cold and Flu Season
Speaker:
Stacey Littlefield
Stacy is passionate about natural medicines and a firm believer of utilizing nutritious foods to improve overall health. Her enthusiasm, knowledge and expertise in the health food industry makes her a dynamic speaker. You will be glad you made the extra effort to be here!
We also are having many great specials ranging from 20 to 25% off!! Here is a list of some of the things on special this weekend:
20% OFF
Entire Line of Enzymatic
Therapy Products
20 % OFF
Entire Line of New Chapter Products
% OFF
Entire Line of Redd
Remedies Products
20% OFF
Entire Line of Barlean’s
Organic Oils
25% OFF
Seagate Olive Leaf Extract Capsules 45, 90 or 250 ct.
25% OFF
Boiron Oscillococcinum
Flu Remedy
25% OFF
American Health Chewable Acidophilus 100 wafers
Assorted Flavors
25% OFF
Pure & Basic Paraben Free Body Wash and Body
Lotions. Assorted Scents
25% OFF
Nature’s Alchemy Essential Oils—These make great stocking stuffers!
Also be sure to check out our end cap specials at the front of the store!!
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