Vitamin B-12 May Prevent Canker Sores
December 2009
Do you suffer from recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), commonly known as canker sores? Well, scientists in Israel have shown that those suffering from canker sores may have another treatment option—vitamin B-12.
Researchers headquartered at Ben-Gurion University said: "The frequency of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), the most common oral mucosa lesions seen in primary care, is up to 25% in the general population. However, there has been no optimal therapeutic approach. Our objective was to confirm our previous clinical observations of the beneficial treatment of RAS with vitamin B-12."
The researchers gave 1,000 mcg of vitamin B-12 (or a placebo) to 58 canker sore patients every night for six months. About 74% of those who took vitamin B-12 went into remission, whereas only 32% of the placebo group achieved this result. Of interest, the number of mouth sores and the length of time before ulcers were gone shortened in both groups after four months. These factors "were reduced significantly at five and six months of treatment with vitamin B-12," the researchers reported.
Overall, the group concluded: "Vitamin B-12 treatment, which is simple, inexpensive and low-risk, seems to be effective for patients suffering from RAS (i.e. canker sores), regardless of the serum vitamin B-12 level."
The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine 22(1):9-16, 2009
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Mindful Eating? Or Eating Under The Influence?(EUI)
E.U.I. (Eating Under the Influence)
By Pavel G. Somov, Ph.D.
December 29, 2009
Much of our eating is habitual, i.e. under the influence of the environment.
I invite you to ponder the following question: Who (and what) influences your eating and how?
Ask yourself:
Who triggers me to eat well?
Who encourages me to eat mindfully, to savor, to eat healthy?
Who triggers me to indulge, overeat, go off diet/regimen?
Who gives me the permission to be “bad?”
Who “come-ons” me to “enjoy myself” only to justify their own urge to binge?
Who triggers me to stress-eat, binge-eat, cope-eat, react-eat?
Who do I cope with by eating?
Who is my “junk-food” person?
Who always dials up for a pizza or taunts your appetite with French fries?
Who is my “sweets” person?
Who always bakes cookies, invites me out for ice-cream, or brings in donuts?
Who in my life needs me to eat to connect with me?
Who expresses their love for me through feeding?
Whose eating do I influence and how?
“Bonus” question:
How does your substance use (if any) affect your eating patterns?
Craving Control tips
Mindful New Year to you all!
Pavel Somov, Ph.D. is the author of "Eating the Moment" (New Harbinger, 2008), "Present Perfect" (NH, 2010), and "The Lotus Effect" (NH, 2010). He is in private practice in Pittsburgh, PA. For more information visit www.eatingthemoment.com and sign up for Pavel Somov's (free) blog feed Sapience/formerly Mindful-not-Mouthful
By Pavel G. Somov, Ph.D.
December 29, 2009
Much of our eating is habitual, i.e. under the influence of the environment.
I invite you to ponder the following question: Who (and what) influences your eating and how?
Ask yourself:
Who triggers me to eat well?
Who encourages me to eat mindfully, to savor, to eat healthy?
Who triggers me to indulge, overeat, go off diet/regimen?
Who gives me the permission to be “bad?”
Who “come-ons” me to “enjoy myself” only to justify their own urge to binge?
Who triggers me to stress-eat, binge-eat, cope-eat, react-eat?
Who do I cope with by eating?
Who is my “junk-food” person?
Who always dials up for a pizza or taunts your appetite with French fries?
Who is my “sweets” person?
Who always bakes cookies, invites me out for ice-cream, or brings in donuts?
Who in my life needs me to eat to connect with me?
Who expresses their love for me through feeding?
Whose eating do I influence and how?
“Bonus” question:
How does your substance use (if any) affect your eating patterns?
Craving Control tips
Mindful New Year to you all!
Pavel Somov, Ph.D. is the author of "Eating the Moment" (New Harbinger, 2008), "Present Perfect" (NH, 2010), and "The Lotus Effect" (NH, 2010). He is in private practice in Pittsburgh, PA. For more information visit www.eatingthemoment.com and sign up for Pavel Somov's (free) blog feed Sapience/formerly Mindful-not-Mouthful
Gingko Biloba No Starter on Mental Decline
According to the JAMA the use of G.Biloba as an herbal supplement has no significant effect upon mental decline in a large study. Save your money and go for a walk. But not to Walgreen's.
http://psychcentral.com/news/2009/12/30/ginkgo-biloba-doesnt-stop-cognitive-decline/10472.html?utm_source=Psych+Central+Weekly+Newsletter&utm_campaign=5f80812508-Weekly_Newsletter_3811_10_2009&utm_medium=email
http://psychcentral.com/news/2009/12/30/ginkgo-biloba-doesnt-stop-cognitive-decline/10472.html?utm_source=Psych+Central+Weekly+Newsletter&utm_campaign=5f80812508-Weekly_Newsletter_3811_10_2009&utm_medium=email
Friday, December 18, 2009
Can Constipation be a factor in Parkinson's?
http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2009/12/constipation-sign-early-parkinsons-disease.html
In a study which used intake data to filter for common indicators preceding onset of parkinson's a neurological disorder. Of course a diet which alleviates constipation would be higher in vitamins and fiber which would aid in bowel function and so it may be many issues besides a symptom. Eat your vegetables whole grains and legumes.
try to avoid stress and your digestion may be improved i.e. no constipation. Happy trails.
In a study which used intake data to filter for common indicators preceding onset of parkinson's a neurological disorder. Of course a diet which alleviates constipation would be higher in vitamins and fiber which would aid in bowel function and so it may be many issues besides a symptom. Eat your vegetables whole grains and legumes.
try to avoid stress and your digestion may be improved i.e. no constipation. Happy trails.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Another Link To Obesity and HFCS
The London Times reports today that high fructose corn syrup is a factor in obesity and diabetes. The subjects consuming the same kcal of glucose did not experience the same metabolic storage patterns indicating the addition of HFCS in the amounts in the Standard American Diet(SAD) causes changes in the way the body stores and processes carbohydrates leading to metabolic syndrome and eventually to type 2 diabetes.The use of HFCS in almost every processed food makes this finding a rebuttal to industry studies which say there is no difference between glucose and HFCS in obesity provocation.The NIH says industry is wrong. How long until we treat this as a threat to our national security?
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article6954603.ece
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2673878/
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article6954603.ece
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2673878/
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Megavitamin Therapy Podcast 12-15-09
http://yourownhealthandfitness.org/
I know Ms L spoke about ULs for vitamins. Also in the syllabus there was a mention of using food and nutrition for alleviating illnesses and chronic disorders. Here is one opinion on the subject Dr Abram Hoffer explored as early as the mid-fifties as a psychiatrist in Canada. He had good outcomes using nutrition to treat schizophrenia and in some cases curing it. What will we do for a population that is disenfranchised from the medical system due to cost or "pre-existing" conditions? Food and nutrition(FN) may be the panacea for the poor. Industrial agriculture brings us industrial levels of pesticide and herbicide residues and indenture the ability to grow food to the petrochemical/seed conglomerates who decide what strains are available for our staples. I don't like this and it bodes poorly for the possible reaching the goals for Healthy People 2010.
I know Ms L spoke about ULs for vitamins. Also in the syllabus there was a mention of using food and nutrition for alleviating illnesses and chronic disorders. Here is one opinion on the subject Dr Abram Hoffer explored as early as the mid-fifties as a psychiatrist in Canada. He had good outcomes using nutrition to treat schizophrenia and in some cases curing it. What will we do for a population that is disenfranchised from the medical system due to cost or "pre-existing" conditions? Food and nutrition(FN) may be the panacea for the poor. Industrial agriculture brings us industrial levels of pesticide and herbicide residues and indenture the ability to grow food to the petrochemical/seed conglomerates who decide what strains are available for our staples. I don't like this and it bodes poorly for the possible reaching the goals for Healthy People 2010.
Love Your Heart Podcast
A show on Your Own Health and Fitness.org talking aout mostly women's heart health. The WHI Women's Health Inventory is discussed relative to outcomes. Outcomes based on assumptions not clearly proven and Laina Berman disputes some hard held practices of the AMA. Free Podcast until 12- 14-09 after that as a pay per download.
http://yourownhealthandfitness.org/
Listen and learn the other side of this study.
http://yourownhealthandfitness.org/
Listen and learn the other side of this study.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Its SAD Time Again
How to Spot Seasonal Affective Disorder—The Wintertime Blues
December 2009
There are classic signs like weight gain, sleepiness and social withdrawal. Then there are the more subtle symptoms, such as anxiety, diminished sex drive and difficulty concentrating. Seasonal Affective Disorder, like other forms of depression, is a mixed bag of mental and emotional challenges.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is similar to many other natural life patterns because of its cyclical nature. Like the circadian rhythms that regulate sleep each night, SAD symptoms most often make their appearance as the hours of daylight slowly diminish heading into the dark winter months. However, there is also a form of SAD that occurs during the summer months (two forms also known as “winter depression” and “summer depression”).
With the daylight savings switch already made, that time of year is upon us. As the days grow shorter and shorter, now is the time to monitor any changes in your mood, daily routine and overall emotional well-being. Occasional symptoms of minor depression can pop up throughout the year. But when you have a combination of symptoms that linger for weeks, it’s time to consider speaking with a doctor or healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Symptoms Associated with winter Seasonal Affective Disorder:
•Depression
•Hopelessness
•Anxiety
•Loss of energy
•Social withdrawal
•Oversleeping
•Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
•Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
•Weight gain
•Difficulty concentrating and processing information
Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder has a few different symptoms, including anxiety, trouble sleeping (insomnia), irritability, agitation, weight loss, poor appetite, and increased sex drive.
According to Mayo Clinic, it's normal to have bad days, days where you just feel down in the dumps. “But if you feel down for days at a time and you can't seem to get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, see your doctor,” states the Mayo Clinic website. “This is particularly important if you notice that your sleep patterns and appetite have changed or if you feel hopeless, think about suicide, or find yourself turning to alcohol [or drugs] for comfort or relaxation.”
What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Unfortunately, the specific cause of seasonal affective disorder is still not known. However, researchers and scientists continue to examine potential links between SAD and common indicators like age, genetics, and family history. A person’s natural chemical makeup might also play a role in developing the condition.
Like most mental health disorders, seasonal affective disorder affects women more than men. While women are statistically more likely to suffer from SAD, studies show men experience more severe symptoms. Further, similar to vitamin D deficiency, SAD appears to be more common for people who live farther from the equator. This may be due to decreased sunlight during the shorter winter days. The following list is taken directly from the Mayo Clinic website.
A few specific factors that may come into play include:
•Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). The reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter may disrupt your body's internal clock, which lets you know when you should sleep or be awake. This disruption of your circadian rhythm may lead to feelings of depression.
•Melatonin levels. The change in season can disrupt the balance of the natural hormone melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood. Talk to your doctor to see whether taking melatonin supplements is a good option.
•Serotonin levels. A drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood, might play a role in seasonal affective disorder. Reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, perhaps leading to depression.
Source: www.mayoclinic.com
I was hoping it would not happen this year. I am curious about the increase in sex drive. Perhaps like carbohydrate cravings it is a hard-wired(pun intended) attempt to release endorphins. Either way I am getting cabin fever and need excercise. By now.
December 2009
There are classic signs like weight gain, sleepiness and social withdrawal. Then there are the more subtle symptoms, such as anxiety, diminished sex drive and difficulty concentrating. Seasonal Affective Disorder, like other forms of depression, is a mixed bag of mental and emotional challenges.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is similar to many other natural life patterns because of its cyclical nature. Like the circadian rhythms that regulate sleep each night, SAD symptoms most often make their appearance as the hours of daylight slowly diminish heading into the dark winter months. However, there is also a form of SAD that occurs during the summer months (two forms also known as “winter depression” and “summer depression”).
With the daylight savings switch already made, that time of year is upon us. As the days grow shorter and shorter, now is the time to monitor any changes in your mood, daily routine and overall emotional well-being. Occasional symptoms of minor depression can pop up throughout the year. But when you have a combination of symptoms that linger for weeks, it’s time to consider speaking with a doctor or healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Symptoms Associated with winter Seasonal Affective Disorder:
•Depression
•Hopelessness
•Anxiety
•Loss of energy
•Social withdrawal
•Oversleeping
•Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
•Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
•Weight gain
•Difficulty concentrating and processing information
Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder has a few different symptoms, including anxiety, trouble sleeping (insomnia), irritability, agitation, weight loss, poor appetite, and increased sex drive.
According to Mayo Clinic, it's normal to have bad days, days where you just feel down in the dumps. “But if you feel down for days at a time and you can't seem to get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, see your doctor,” states the Mayo Clinic website. “This is particularly important if you notice that your sleep patterns and appetite have changed or if you feel hopeless, think about suicide, or find yourself turning to alcohol [or drugs] for comfort or relaxation.”
What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Unfortunately, the specific cause of seasonal affective disorder is still not known. However, researchers and scientists continue to examine potential links between SAD and common indicators like age, genetics, and family history. A person’s natural chemical makeup might also play a role in developing the condition.
Like most mental health disorders, seasonal affective disorder affects women more than men. While women are statistically more likely to suffer from SAD, studies show men experience more severe symptoms. Further, similar to vitamin D deficiency, SAD appears to be more common for people who live farther from the equator. This may be due to decreased sunlight during the shorter winter days. The following list is taken directly from the Mayo Clinic website.
A few specific factors that may come into play include:
•Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). The reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter may disrupt your body's internal clock, which lets you know when you should sleep or be awake. This disruption of your circadian rhythm may lead to feelings of depression.
•Melatonin levels. The change in season can disrupt the balance of the natural hormone melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood. Talk to your doctor to see whether taking melatonin supplements is a good option.
•Serotonin levels. A drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood, might play a role in seasonal affective disorder. Reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, perhaps leading to depression.
Source: www.mayoclinic.com
I was hoping it would not happen this year. I am curious about the increase in sex drive. Perhaps like carbohydrate cravings it is a hard-wired(pun intended) attempt to release endorphins. Either way I am getting cabin fever and need excercise. By now.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The Longevity Diet
This is a book recommended by my nutrition professor written by the widow of the great gerontologist Roy Walford. The gist of the longevity diet is this; All animals so far tested if raised on a CR (calorie restricted) diet seem to have a lower probability of succumbing to the normal diseases and metabolic failures of organisms on a normal non-CR diet. This has yet to be proven in humans because the study(now being conducted by the Calorie Restriction Society)will take over 100 years to complete. If trends and comparisons can be made interspecies-wise humans on a CR diet could live to be 150-60 years before passing. Not only that but the muscles organs and tissues will sustain a more youthful vitality including fertility well beyond normal limits.
The catch, you must relearn your relationship with food. Eat less than you would normally metabolize and train your cells to get by with less energy but a rich nutrient plant based diet that limits total caloric intake while maintaining the minimum amounts of fats and carbohydrates while sustaining a slightly higher amino acid consumption mainly by eating whole foods.
I have done retreats where the diet is limited to raw whole foods and little spices. It helps to bring about a calmer more peaceful less reactive state of being. I think this was mentioned as a benefit of the discipline. Longevity without the needed vitality and energy is not a blessing as Medicine has "extended" the lifespan by artficially extending the life of organs with anti-inflammatory drugs. These effects can come from the CR diet alone.
Of course stress can shorten our lives by actually shortening the telomers in our genes and too much caloric restriction can be dangerous.Rigorous medical monitoring of blood levels and cardio-fitness in the initial 2-3 years is critical.
The Longevity Diet:Discover Calorie Restriction---The only proven way to slow the aging process and maintain Peak Vitality Brian M. Delaney and Lisa Walford authors.Marlowe & Company 2004
The catch, you must relearn your relationship with food. Eat less than you would normally metabolize and train your cells to get by with less energy but a rich nutrient plant based diet that limits total caloric intake while maintaining the minimum amounts of fats and carbohydrates while sustaining a slightly higher amino acid consumption mainly by eating whole foods.
I have done retreats where the diet is limited to raw whole foods and little spices. It helps to bring about a calmer more peaceful less reactive state of being. I think this was mentioned as a benefit of the discipline. Longevity without the needed vitality and energy is not a blessing as Medicine has "extended" the lifespan by artficially extending the life of organs with anti-inflammatory drugs. These effects can come from the CR diet alone.
Of course stress can shorten our lives by actually shortening the telomers in our genes and too much caloric restriction can be dangerous.Rigorous medical monitoring of blood levels and cardio-fitness in the initial 2-3 years is critical.
The Longevity Diet:Discover Calorie Restriction---The only proven way to slow the aging process and maintain Peak Vitality Brian M. Delaney and Lisa Walford authors.Marlowe & Company 2004
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Omega-3 Levels and Obesity
Omega-3 Linked to Lower Body Weight
December 2009
Study findings published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicate that overweight and obese people have blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids almost one percent lower than people with a healthy weight.
“Our findings suggest that omega-3 PUFAs may play an important role in weight status and abdominal adiposity,” wrote the researchers, led by Professor Monohar Garg of the University of Newcastle and president-elect of the Nutrition Society of Australia.
Previous studies have implicated omega-3 in protective benefits against obesity, and the recent study adds to this small but growing body of evidence. A considerable number of studies already support the benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for cardiovascular health and cognitive health. Other areas of potential for the fatty acids include mood and behavior, eye health, cancer risk reduction and improved infant development.
The researchers recruited 124 people of varying weights: 21 were classified as having a healthy weight according to their body mass index (BMI), 40 were classified as overweight and 63 were obese. The researchers note that people who consumed omega-3 supplements were excluded from their study.
Blood samples were taken after the subjects fasted for at least 10 hours. Professor Garg and his co-workers recorded an inverse relationship between total omega-3 blood levels, as well as blood levels of DHA and EPA, with BMI, the subjects’ waist sizes and their hip circumference.
Indeed, obese people had omega-3 levels of 4.53 percent, compared to 5.25 percent in their healthy-weight peers. When the researchers organized the participants according to their omega-3 levels, and not by their weight, they again observed that increased omega-3 levels were associated with a healthier BMI, a smaller waist and a lower hip size.
“[Other] studies, along with our observations, suggest that omega-3 PUFA supplementation may play an important role in preventing weight gain and improving weight loss when omega-3 PUFA are supplemented concomitantly with a structured weight-loss program,” wrote the researchers.
British Journal of Nutrition 102(9):1370-1374, 2009
December 2009
Study findings published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicate that overweight and obese people have blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids almost one percent lower than people with a healthy weight.
“Our findings suggest that omega-3 PUFAs may play an important role in weight status and abdominal adiposity,” wrote the researchers, led by Professor Monohar Garg of the University of Newcastle and president-elect of the Nutrition Society of Australia.
Previous studies have implicated omega-3 in protective benefits against obesity, and the recent study adds to this small but growing body of evidence. A considerable number of studies already support the benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for cardiovascular health and cognitive health. Other areas of potential for the fatty acids include mood and behavior, eye health, cancer risk reduction and improved infant development.
The researchers recruited 124 people of varying weights: 21 were classified as having a healthy weight according to their body mass index (BMI), 40 were classified as overweight and 63 were obese. The researchers note that people who consumed omega-3 supplements were excluded from their study.
Blood samples were taken after the subjects fasted for at least 10 hours. Professor Garg and his co-workers recorded an inverse relationship between total omega-3 blood levels, as well as blood levels of DHA and EPA, with BMI, the subjects’ waist sizes and their hip circumference.
Indeed, obese people had omega-3 levels of 4.53 percent, compared to 5.25 percent in their healthy-weight peers. When the researchers organized the participants according to their omega-3 levels, and not by their weight, they again observed that increased omega-3 levels were associated with a healthier BMI, a smaller waist and a lower hip size.
“[Other] studies, along with our observations, suggest that omega-3 PUFA supplementation may play an important role in preventing weight gain and improving weight loss when omega-3 PUFA are supplemented concomitantly with a structured weight-loss program,” wrote the researchers.
British Journal of Nutrition 102(9):1370-1374, 2009
Folate and Iron Reduce Infant Mortality
Infant Survival Sees Increase with Mothers Who Took Folic Acid, Iron
December 2009
Taking folic acid and iron supplements during pregnancy may reduce infant mortality up to age 7, suggests research from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. In fact, researchers report as much as a 31% reduction in infant mortality.
Furthermore, the supplements reduced the prevalence of low birth weight by 16% and the prevalence of maternal anemia during pregnancy and after the birth period by 50%.
"To our knowledge this is the first time the long-term effects of maternal iron-folic acid supplementation on childhood survival have been examined," said lead researcher P. Christian.
"A reduction in mortality resulting from an intervention, such as iron-folic acid supplementation during pregnancy, provides a new and previously unreported evidence of benefit to offspring during childhood," added Christian.
Almost 5,000 pregnant women in rural Nepal were recruited to take part in the randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Women were divided into five groups. One group received folic acid only; the second group received folic acid, plus iron; the third received folic acid, plus iron, plus zinc; the fourth received multiple micronutrients; and the final group received vitamin A and acted as the control group.
Of the 4,130 babies born alive, 209 died in the first three months and eight were lost to follow-up. Of the 3,913 remaining, the researchers report that 150 died between the ages of three months and seven years, while 152 were lost to follow-up.
Children of mothers receiving the folic acid, plus iron supplements had the lowest mortality rate of 10.3 per 1,000 child-years from birth to age seven years, compared to 13.4, 12.0, 14.0 and 15.2 for the folic acid, folic acid, plus iron, plus zinc; multiple micronutrients and control groups, respectively.
"In a setting where maternal iron deficiency and anemia are common, we found a 31% reduction in childhood mortality due to maternal antenatal and postnatal supplementation with iron-folic acid compared to a control," Christian said.
The researchers concluded that such results provide additional motivation to increase global programs for antenatal iron and folic acid supplementation.
American Journal of Epidemiology 170(9):1127-1136, 2009
December 2009
Taking folic acid and iron supplements during pregnancy may reduce infant mortality up to age 7, suggests research from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. In fact, researchers report as much as a 31% reduction in infant mortality.
Furthermore, the supplements reduced the prevalence of low birth weight by 16% and the prevalence of maternal anemia during pregnancy and after the birth period by 50%.
"To our knowledge this is the first time the long-term effects of maternal iron-folic acid supplementation on childhood survival have been examined," said lead researcher P. Christian.
"A reduction in mortality resulting from an intervention, such as iron-folic acid supplementation during pregnancy, provides a new and previously unreported evidence of benefit to offspring during childhood," added Christian.
Almost 5,000 pregnant women in rural Nepal were recruited to take part in the randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Women were divided into five groups. One group received folic acid only; the second group received folic acid, plus iron; the third received folic acid, plus iron, plus zinc; the fourth received multiple micronutrients; and the final group received vitamin A and acted as the control group.
Of the 4,130 babies born alive, 209 died in the first three months and eight were lost to follow-up. Of the 3,913 remaining, the researchers report that 150 died between the ages of three months and seven years, while 152 were lost to follow-up.
Children of mothers receiving the folic acid, plus iron supplements had the lowest mortality rate of 10.3 per 1,000 child-years from birth to age seven years, compared to 13.4, 12.0, 14.0 and 15.2 for the folic acid, folic acid, plus iron, plus zinc; multiple micronutrients and control groups, respectively.
"In a setting where maternal iron deficiency and anemia are common, we found a 31% reduction in childhood mortality due to maternal antenatal and postnatal supplementation with iron-folic acid compared to a control," Christian said.
The researchers concluded that such results provide additional motivation to increase global programs for antenatal iron and folic acid supplementation.
American Journal of Epidemiology 170(9):1127-1136, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Low Acid Diet and Osteoporosis
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/24/health/24brod.html?emc=eta1
In the NY Times Jane Brody discusses the newest studies on diet and bone health. The significant findings were that a diet with at least 9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day meant much lower rates of fractures and by this criteria less bone loss. The rates of osteoporosis were highest in countries consuming the most dairy. Japan which has lower rates of osteoporosis than the US consume fermented foods which may enhance assimilation of dietary calcium. Apparently the buffering alkalinity of fruits and vegetables can compensate for the acid forming proteins. Calcium supplements and dairy did not do the same for the populations studied as the diets rich in phytochemicals and low in acids.
In the NY Times Jane Brody discusses the newest studies on diet and bone health. The significant findings were that a diet with at least 9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day meant much lower rates of fractures and by this criteria less bone loss. The rates of osteoporosis were highest in countries consuming the most dairy. Japan which has lower rates of osteoporosis than the US consume fermented foods which may enhance assimilation of dietary calcium. Apparently the buffering alkalinity of fruits and vegetables can compensate for the acid forming proteins. Calcium supplements and dairy did not do the same for the populations studied as the diets rich in phytochemicals and low in acids.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The Trans-Fat Breakfast Blues
Trans-Fat Breakfast Blues
When I woke up this morning
I was as hungry as can be
I looked up in the cupboard
There was nothing trans-fat free
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be good until 2022
I took out a box of Ho Hos
An a jar of Coffee Mate
Put’ em all in the blender
And made a chocolate marshmallow trans-fat shake
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be good until 2022
A No-bake Jello peanut butter cup cheesecake
Was there before my eyes
When I looked at the nutrition facts
There was a hydrogenated surprise
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be just as deadly in 2022
http://www.youtube.com/plerf#p/u/0/zf4K3_L6xJc
When I woke up this morning
I was as hungry as can be
I looked up in the cupboard
There was nothing trans-fat free
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be good until 2022
I took out a box of Ho Hos
An a jar of Coffee Mate
Put’ em all in the blender
And made a chocolate marshmallow trans-fat shake
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be good until 2022
A No-bake Jello peanut butter cup cheesecake
Was there before my eyes
When I looked at the nutrition facts
There was a hydrogenated surprise
Oh my oh me I got those trans-fat breakfast blues
The only thing good about it is this stuff will be just as deadly in 2022
http://www.youtube.com/plerf#p/u/0/zf4K3_L6xJc
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Exercises Reduce Shoulder Pain
Exercise as Pain Therapy
By Maureen Williams, ND
Healthnotes Newswire (November 5, 2009)—Chronic shoulder (rotator cuff) pain is a common affliction, usually managed by directed exercises, physiotherapies (such as ultrasound and laser treatments), anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, and surgery—most of which carry some risks, side effects, or expense, which has led to exploration of new therapies. An increasingly popular form of physiotherapy, “radial extracorporeal shockwave treatment,” is used to treat shoulder pain, but a new study published in the British Medical Journal found that supervised exercises were a more effective technique for relief.
Comparing a new therapy to exercise
Shockwave treatment uses low- to medium-energy shockwaves (physical waves, not electric waves) generated by percussive action in the therapeutic device, which is placed on the skin in the general area of pain. The impulses spread through the soft tissue (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) as radial waves.
In the study, 104 people who reported experiencing pain in one shoulder for three months or longer were randomly assigned to receive either shockwave treatment or supervised exercise therapy. The shockwave treatment was administered once per week for four to six weeks, and the exercise program, which was designed to improve posture and normal joint movement and to build strength in the muscles supporting the shoulder, involved two sessions per week for up to 12 weeks. The people in the study completed questionnaires to assess pain and disability before the start of treatment and after 6, 12, and 18 weeks.
Exercise therapy beats shockwave treatment
The people in the exercise program improved more than the people receiving shockwave treatment at 6, 12, and 18 weeks. At the end of the study, shoulder pain and disability had improved in 64% of those in the exercise group, compared with only 36% in the shockwave therapy group. More of the exercisers were also able to return to work.
In addition to improving flexibility and building muscular support around the shoulder joint, exercise therapy can reduce scarring and increase blood flow, leading to improved oxygenation and drainage. A targeted exercise program can also help people with chronic musculoskeletal pain to develop better body mechanics so that their everyday movements don’t increase their pain.
Support for shoulder exercises
Previous studies have also shown that exercise therapy can be effective for chronic shoulder pain, and a review of the research concluded that it is as effective as surgery, which makes it more desirable for many people who want to avoid the risks and expenses associated with surgery. “Our results are in agreement with results from previous trials recommending exercise therapy, and do not strengthen the evidence for extracorporeal shockwave treatment,” the study’s authors said in their conclusion.
Here are some ways to support your exercise therapy program if you suffer from chronic shoulder pain:
• Avoid activities associated with pain. Try to stick to activities that require only gentle movement of the shoulder.
• Do not use slings or braces that immobilize the shoulder for long periods of time, unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. Holding the joint in one position for too long can lead to stiffness and scarring.
• Use heat to relax the muscles and open the blood vessels, and cold to tone the muscles and induce drainage. Applying alternating hot and cold compresses to the shoulder area can reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of the joint.
• Seek education, instruction, and support from your doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor, or other qualified healthcare provider before beginning an exercise therapy program.
(BMJ 2009;339:b3360)
Makes sense that people moving their own bodies would make more endorphins than having a device do it for them. As a recovering shoulder injury person I know it takes a lot of time and patience to get well. It is not always a linear process either with mobility dependent upon range of motion work as well as strengthening exercises.
By Maureen Williams, ND
Healthnotes Newswire (November 5, 2009)—Chronic shoulder (rotator cuff) pain is a common affliction, usually managed by directed exercises, physiotherapies (such as ultrasound and laser treatments), anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, and surgery—most of which carry some risks, side effects, or expense, which has led to exploration of new therapies. An increasingly popular form of physiotherapy, “radial extracorporeal shockwave treatment,” is used to treat shoulder pain, but a new study published in the British Medical Journal found that supervised exercises were a more effective technique for relief.
Comparing a new therapy to exercise
Shockwave treatment uses low- to medium-energy shockwaves (physical waves, not electric waves) generated by percussive action in the therapeutic device, which is placed on the skin in the general area of pain. The impulses spread through the soft tissue (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) as radial waves.
In the study, 104 people who reported experiencing pain in one shoulder for three months or longer were randomly assigned to receive either shockwave treatment or supervised exercise therapy. The shockwave treatment was administered once per week for four to six weeks, and the exercise program, which was designed to improve posture and normal joint movement and to build strength in the muscles supporting the shoulder, involved two sessions per week for up to 12 weeks. The people in the study completed questionnaires to assess pain and disability before the start of treatment and after 6, 12, and 18 weeks.
Exercise therapy beats shockwave treatment
The people in the exercise program improved more than the people receiving shockwave treatment at 6, 12, and 18 weeks. At the end of the study, shoulder pain and disability had improved in 64% of those in the exercise group, compared with only 36% in the shockwave therapy group. More of the exercisers were also able to return to work.
In addition to improving flexibility and building muscular support around the shoulder joint, exercise therapy can reduce scarring and increase blood flow, leading to improved oxygenation and drainage. A targeted exercise program can also help people with chronic musculoskeletal pain to develop better body mechanics so that their everyday movements don’t increase their pain.
Support for shoulder exercises
Previous studies have also shown that exercise therapy can be effective for chronic shoulder pain, and a review of the research concluded that it is as effective as surgery, which makes it more desirable for many people who want to avoid the risks and expenses associated with surgery. “Our results are in agreement with results from previous trials recommending exercise therapy, and do not strengthen the evidence for extracorporeal shockwave treatment,” the study’s authors said in their conclusion.
Here are some ways to support your exercise therapy program if you suffer from chronic shoulder pain:
• Avoid activities associated with pain. Try to stick to activities that require only gentle movement of the shoulder.
• Do not use slings or braces that immobilize the shoulder for long periods of time, unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. Holding the joint in one position for too long can lead to stiffness and scarring.
• Use heat to relax the muscles and open the blood vessels, and cold to tone the muscles and induce drainage. Applying alternating hot and cold compresses to the shoulder area can reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of the joint.
• Seek education, instruction, and support from your doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor, or other qualified healthcare provider before beginning an exercise therapy program.
(BMJ 2009;339:b3360)
Makes sense that people moving their own bodies would make more endorphins than having a device do it for them. As a recovering shoulder injury person I know it takes a lot of time and patience to get well. It is not always a linear process either with mobility dependent upon range of motion work as well as strengthening exercises.
Walnuts in Diet Lowers Cholesterol in Type II Diabetics
Walnut-Rich Diet Boosts Heart-Health in Diabetics
November 2009
A new study from Yale finds that daily consumption of walnuts, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, may improve the health of blood vessels, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.
Supplementing the diet of middle-aged diabetics with 56 grams of walnuts led to significant improvements in the function of the blood vessel lining (endothelium), and there was also a trend toward improved cholesterol levels, according to findings published in Diabetes Care.
The study adds to a growing body of science supporting the health benefits, and the heart benefits in particular, of increased consumption of nuts. Previous studies have reported benefits for almonds, macadamia nuts and pistachios.
Indeed, a recent study funded by the California Walnut Commission found that the fatty acids present in walnuts and fish oil may work in different ways to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
According to findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (89:1657S-1663S, 2009), a diet supplemented with walnuts led to reductions in cholesterol levels, while a fish diet led to reductions in blood levels of triglycerides.
For the new study, David Katz and his co-workers from the Yale University School of Medicine recruited 24 type 2 diabetics with an average age of 58 and randomly assigned them to an ad libitum diet with or without 56 grams of walnuts for eight weeks.
At the end of the intervention period, blood flow was measured using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and found to have "significantly improved" by 2.3 percent in the walnut group, compared to 1.2 percent in the non-supplemented group.
Furthermore, blood sugar levels and total cholesterol levels were also decreased from baseline values. However, these values did not reach significance compared to the non-walnut-eating group.
"A walnut-enriched ad libitum diet improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in type 2 diabetics, suggesting a potential reduction in overall cardiac risk," concluded the researchers.
Diabetes Care Published online ahead of print.
November 2009
A new study from Yale finds that daily consumption of walnuts, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, may improve the health of blood vessels, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.
Supplementing the diet of middle-aged diabetics with 56 grams of walnuts led to significant improvements in the function of the blood vessel lining (endothelium), and there was also a trend toward improved cholesterol levels, according to findings published in Diabetes Care.
The study adds to a growing body of science supporting the health benefits, and the heart benefits in particular, of increased consumption of nuts. Previous studies have reported benefits for almonds, macadamia nuts and pistachios.
Indeed, a recent study funded by the California Walnut Commission found that the fatty acids present in walnuts and fish oil may work in different ways to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
According to findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (89:1657S-1663S, 2009), a diet supplemented with walnuts led to reductions in cholesterol levels, while a fish diet led to reductions in blood levels of triglycerides.
For the new study, David Katz and his co-workers from the Yale University School of Medicine recruited 24 type 2 diabetics with an average age of 58 and randomly assigned them to an ad libitum diet with or without 56 grams of walnuts for eight weeks.
At the end of the intervention period, blood flow was measured using flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and found to have "significantly improved" by 2.3 percent in the walnut group, compared to 1.2 percent in the non-supplemented group.
Furthermore, blood sugar levels and total cholesterol levels were also decreased from baseline values. However, these values did not reach significance compared to the non-walnut-eating group.
"A walnut-enriched ad libitum diet improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in type 2 diabetics, suggesting a potential reduction in overall cardiac risk," concluded the researchers.
Diabetes Care Published online ahead of print.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Alcohol beverages as a source of estrogens
From Alcohol Health and Research World 22.3(1998) 220-227
I was looking for information on the nutritional fortification of beverage alcohol and found this article which gives clear reasons why alcohol use increases certain cancers. I was of an understandiing that cogeners the by-products of distillation and fermentation are sterols and as sterols can mimic endogenous estrogen. These compounds can cause normal processes to stop or to increase either one causing imbalances in hormomes and sexual impotency and possible suseptibility to cancer.In rats estrogens increased even in subjects with no ovaries. The clear booze like vodka have less cogeners and red wine and bourbon have the most.
As an aside, I read a headline that the FDA may ban caffeine containing alcoholic energy drinks. Isn't that their job? I mean duh. F Duh A man.
I was looking for information on the nutritional fortification of beverage alcohol and found this article which gives clear reasons why alcohol use increases certain cancers. I was of an understandiing that cogeners the by-products of distillation and fermentation are sterols and as sterols can mimic endogenous estrogen. These compounds can cause normal processes to stop or to increase either one causing imbalances in hormomes and sexual impotency and possible suseptibility to cancer.In rats estrogens increased even in subjects with no ovaries. The clear booze like vodka have less cogeners and red wine and bourbon have the most.
As an aside, I read a headline that the FDA may ban caffeine containing alcoholic energy drinks. Isn't that their job? I mean duh. F Duh A man.
Sleep curtailment is accompanied by increased intake of calories from snacks
From the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 89.1(2009) 126-133
If you are overworked this study indicates you will try to compensate for lost sleep by eating more snack foods. I guess the energy that is normally restored by sufficient rest is no longer available so the human in its marvelous wisdon says to itself,"we are going to die if we don't get some carbs."
This is not happening at meal time it is happening times when metabolic reserves would suffice but the brain deprived of rest decides it needs to take on more energy. A candy bar here and a energy drink there and pretty soon fat starts to add on. It is not the fault of the food it is the human, pressed to perform more than is possible without paying a price metabolically. Shift workers also pay a price for the changing sleep patterns. Health is more than eating and exercise, it is a balance of food motion and recovery.Also if you are wanting to lose weight, it might be wise to get enough sleep.
If you are overworked this study indicates you will try to compensate for lost sleep by eating more snack foods. I guess the energy that is normally restored by sufficient rest is no longer available so the human in its marvelous wisdon says to itself,"we are going to die if we don't get some carbs."
This is not happening at meal time it is happening times when metabolic reserves would suffice but the brain deprived of rest decides it needs to take on more energy. A candy bar here and a energy drink there and pretty soon fat starts to add on. It is not the fault of the food it is the human, pressed to perform more than is possible without paying a price metabolically. Shift workers also pay a price for the changing sleep patterns. Health is more than eating and exercise, it is a balance of food motion and recovery.Also if you are wanting to lose weight, it might be wise to get enough sleep.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Why Aging People become Depressed, Fatigued, and Overweight.
www.lef.org
From Life Extension magazine comes this article by William Faloon on the clinical applications of L-tryptophan and its natural essential amino acid tryptophan.Tryptophan is the precursor to 5HT which with niacin and b-6 make serotonin in the liver using an enzyme tryptophan2,3-dioxygenase(TDO) if there is an excess another enzyme indoleamine2,3-dioxgenase(IDO) takes it free form in the bloodstream even if your brain needs it to make serotonin or down stream melatonin. As we age, these IDOs are eating up your good aminos because we produce more of these enzymes.Taking more tryptophan protein or 5HTP will be beaten unless we do two things. 1 take niacin as niacin deficiency requires tryptophan to be converted into niacin. 2 get curcumin aka tumeric in your diet as its anti-inflammatory properties will be protective of serotonin and you will feel better because you will have more of that happy go lucky serotonin in you. Clinical applications of L-tryptophan were discussed for sleep disorders, depression, PMS, carbohydrate cravings and weight loss. With depression so prevalent as well as sleep disorders this may be the future of clinical nutrition.
from Life Extension Magazine 2009 collector's edition pp 45-55
From Life Extension magazine comes this article by William Faloon on the clinical applications of L-tryptophan and its natural essential amino acid tryptophan.Tryptophan is the precursor to 5HT which with niacin and b-6 make serotonin in the liver using an enzyme tryptophan2,3-dioxygenase(TDO) if there is an excess another enzyme indoleamine2,3-dioxgenase(IDO) takes it free form in the bloodstream even if your brain needs it to make serotonin or down stream melatonin. As we age, these IDOs are eating up your good aminos because we produce more of these enzymes.Taking more tryptophan protein or 5HTP will be beaten unless we do two things. 1 take niacin as niacin deficiency requires tryptophan to be converted into niacin. 2 get curcumin aka tumeric in your diet as its anti-inflammatory properties will be protective of serotonin and you will feel better because you will have more of that happy go lucky serotonin in you. Clinical applications of L-tryptophan were discussed for sleep disorders, depression, PMS, carbohydrate cravings and weight loss. With depression so prevalent as well as sleep disorders this may be the future of clinical nutrition.
from Life Extension Magazine 2009 collector's edition pp 45-55
Clinical Nutrition 28(2009) 266-271
Mood and cortisol responses following trytophan-rich hydrolyzed protein and acute stress in healthy subjects with high and low cognitive reactivity to depression.
This article describes a study in the Netherlands of college aged group of 20 given a protein drink before undergoing a "...uncontrollable mental arithmetic task."(do I know that feeling) as a stressor. Cortisol levels were taken pre- and post-test. Findings were that trytophan rich foods enhance stress coping mechanisms by theoretically increasing trytophan synthesis to 5HT a precursor to serotonin a neurotransmitter in the brain. Research suggests further studies with clinical and sub-clinical populations might lead to alternatives to anxiolytic medicines through applications of clinical nutrition. This may be the future.
This article describes a study in the Netherlands of college aged group of 20 given a protein drink before undergoing a "...uncontrollable mental arithmetic task."(do I know that feeling) as a stressor. Cortisol levels were taken pre- and post-test. Findings were that trytophan rich foods enhance stress coping mechanisms by theoretically increasing trytophan synthesis to 5HT a precursor to serotonin a neurotransmitter in the brain. Research suggests further studies with clinical and sub-clinical populations might lead to alternatives to anxiolytic medicines through applications of clinical nutrition. This may be the future.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Pomegranate and Prostate Cancer
Eat your Fruits and Vegetables. They are on your side...Mississsipi Damn.
Pomegranate’s Prostate Protection Potential Grows
November 2009
The anti-prostate cancer effects of pomegranate and its extracts may be related to stopping an enzyme in the liver that processes environmental carcinogens, according to a new study.
Pomegranate, a rich source of antioxidants, has been linked to improved heart health, but a growing body of evidence indicates the fruit also protects against prostate cancer. Studies have also reported a role for pomegranate in joint health by slowing cartilage loss in arthritis.
It is the antioxidants and ellagitannin compounds like punicalagins and punicalins, which account for about half of the fruit’s antioxidant ability, that are reportedly behind the proposed health benefits.
The new study, led by Daneel Farreira from the University of Mississippi, deepens our understanding of how the constituents of the fruit may boost prostate health.
"Our results indicate a previously unexplored pathway through which pomegranate juice constituents may contribute to prostate cancer chemoprevention," they wrote.
Writing in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Ferreira and his co-workers reported that pomegranate’s ellagitannin compounds may inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450 1B1, an enzyme known to be highly expressed in various human cancers, but not in normal tissues, an established target in the prevention of prostate cancer.
"Our study has asserted a previously unknown mechanism of action of pomegranate juice constituents, which could potentially contribute to prostate cancer chemoprevention," they wrote. "We proved that systemically available metabolites of pomegranate juice are effective inhibitors of CYP1B1 enzyme activity/expression and could lower the incidence of prostate cancer initiation and sustenance."
The researchers performed an in vitro experiment to test the ability of pomegranate ellagitannins and its microbial metabolites to inhibit CYP1B1.
They found that the microbial metabolite urolithin A showed the greatest activity for inhibiting CYP1B1, with a 2-fold selectivity over another enzyme CYP1A1, which actually has anti-cancer activity. Inhibition of CYP1A1 is therefore not desirable.
"It is also well-known that prostate cancer typically possesses long latency periods and develops in older men; therefore, cancer chemoprevention by dietary supplement-based intervention is a desirable form of chemotherapy," wrote the researchers. "Pomegranate juice consumption, thus, may be of considerable advantage in prostate cancer chemoprevention, not only in patients with a genetic predisposition toward prostate cancer but also in patients undergoing cancer therapy."
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry Published online ahead of print.
Pomegranate’s Prostate Protection Potential Grows
November 2009
The anti-prostate cancer effects of pomegranate and its extracts may be related to stopping an enzyme in the liver that processes environmental carcinogens, according to a new study.
Pomegranate, a rich source of antioxidants, has been linked to improved heart health, but a growing body of evidence indicates the fruit also protects against prostate cancer. Studies have also reported a role for pomegranate in joint health by slowing cartilage loss in arthritis.
It is the antioxidants and ellagitannin compounds like punicalagins and punicalins, which account for about half of the fruit’s antioxidant ability, that are reportedly behind the proposed health benefits.
The new study, led by Daneel Farreira from the University of Mississippi, deepens our understanding of how the constituents of the fruit may boost prostate health.
"Our results indicate a previously unexplored pathway through which pomegranate juice constituents may contribute to prostate cancer chemoprevention," they wrote.
Writing in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Ferreira and his co-workers reported that pomegranate’s ellagitannin compounds may inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450 1B1, an enzyme known to be highly expressed in various human cancers, but not in normal tissues, an established target in the prevention of prostate cancer.
"Our study has asserted a previously unknown mechanism of action of pomegranate juice constituents, which could potentially contribute to prostate cancer chemoprevention," they wrote. "We proved that systemically available metabolites of pomegranate juice are effective inhibitors of CYP1B1 enzyme activity/expression and could lower the incidence of prostate cancer initiation and sustenance."
The researchers performed an in vitro experiment to test the ability of pomegranate ellagitannins and its microbial metabolites to inhibit CYP1B1.
They found that the microbial metabolite urolithin A showed the greatest activity for inhibiting CYP1B1, with a 2-fold selectivity over another enzyme CYP1A1, which actually has anti-cancer activity. Inhibition of CYP1A1 is therefore not desirable.
"It is also well-known that prostate cancer typically possesses long latency periods and develops in older men; therefore, cancer chemoprevention by dietary supplement-based intervention is a desirable form of chemotherapy," wrote the researchers. "Pomegranate juice consumption, thus, may be of considerable advantage in prostate cancer chemoprevention, not only in patients with a genetic predisposition toward prostate cancer but also in patients undergoing cancer therapy."
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry Published online ahead of print.
How Can We Eat Healthy When the Man Gives Away Subsidized USDA Poisons
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Food-fight-Burger-King-apf-1338962807.html?x=0&.v=5
The franchises are suing The King over loss leading double cheeseburgers. They say they are losing 10% or 10 cents for every burger sold. What thay aren't saying is they are expected to make up for the loss by selling soda pop and fries. Sugar and fat to go with the saturated fat and fake cheese food on said cheeseburgers. The thing is, to me, the cost of subsidized fast foods is passed on to the rest of society while the POWERS get "fat profits" with subsidized meat and dairy products. Your tax dollars are used to advertise these loss leaders and to promote the cheese on the burger while a head of broccoli cost $1.88. Why can't the USDA promote cheap broccoli? The man is getting fat but he isn't eating double cheeseburgers. He is eating our healthy souls and laughing all the way to his investments portfolio in big pharma where the real profits are...Eat your burger,ignorant public, take your sivastatin and be glad we have such "abundance" in our food system.
The franchises are suing The King over loss leading double cheeseburgers. They say they are losing 10% or 10 cents for every burger sold. What thay aren't saying is they are expected to make up for the loss by selling soda pop and fries. Sugar and fat to go with the saturated fat and fake cheese food on said cheeseburgers. The thing is, to me, the cost of subsidized fast foods is passed on to the rest of society while the POWERS get "fat profits" with subsidized meat and dairy products. Your tax dollars are used to advertise these loss leaders and to promote the cheese on the burger while a head of broccoli cost $1.88. Why can't the USDA promote cheap broccoli? The man is getting fat but he isn't eating double cheeseburgers. He is eating our healthy souls and laughing all the way to his investments portfolio in big pharma where the real profits are...Eat your burger,ignorant public, take your sivastatin and be glad we have such "abundance" in our food system.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Sleep or Die
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-science-willpower/200910/in-defense-good-nights-sleep
So much for those late night study sessions. I know my own well-being depends upon not having a snorer disturbing me also getting to bed early. "makes a man healthy wealthy and wise." Well, two out of three isn't a total loss.
So much for those late night study sessions. I know my own well-being depends upon not having a snorer disturbing me also getting to bed early. "makes a man healthy wealthy and wise." Well, two out of three isn't a total loss.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Song of the Day
Here’s one you can sing with all your bluegrass mates.
Not Allowed
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
There’s a lot of things Elise don’t allow
Gonna eat my bacon anyhow
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
There’s a lot of things that Elise don’t allow
Gonna eat my Twinkies and Ho Hos anyhow
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
There’s a lot of things Elise don’t allow
I’m gonna eat my air bread anyhow
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
There's a whole lot of things that Elise don't allow
Gonna poop my olestra out anyhow
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
Listen here...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjMsCYV6KrY
Not Allowed
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
There’s a lot of things Elise don’t allow
Gonna eat my bacon anyhow
Elise don’t allow no bacon frying around here
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
There’s a lot of things that Elise don’t allow
Gonna eat my Twinkies and Ho Hos anyhow
Elise don’t allow no trans-fat eating around here
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
There’s a lot of things Elise don’t allow
I’m gonna eat my air bread anyhow
Elise don’t allow no wonder bread eating around here
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
There's a whole lot of things that Elise don't allow
Gonna poop my olestra out anyhow
Elise don't allow no fake fat eating around here
Listen here...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjMsCYV6KrY
Monday, November 2, 2009
Junk Food a factor in Major Depression
The BBC health reports that people eating less fruits and vegetables and eating fast foods are more likely to suffer from depressive illness. The findings point out that depression may have elements of an inflammatory illness as coronary heart disease which is also a co-factor for depression. More to the point, the illness may follow a diet with deficiencies in folate and an excess of saturated fats also precursors to heart attacks and strokes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8334353.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8334353.stm
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Politics of Beef
I was looking for information on the lipid composition of beef grass fed and grain fattened. I found three articles two in clinical nutrition journals and one in an ag U journal. Of the three articles,two of the three presented data supporting my understanding that grass fed beef was "a source" to a "good source" of DHA and EPA Omega 3 SFA.I won't tell you which one was which, you can look for your self.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2006;15(1):21-9.
Effect of feeding systems on omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid and trans fatty acids in Australian beef cuts: potential impact on human health
J Anim Sci. 2008 Dec;86(12):3575-85. Epub 2008 Jul 18
Effects of conventional and grass-feeding systems on the nutrient composition of beef
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2003;12 Suppl:S38
Feeding regimes affect fatty acid composition in Australian beef cattle
Needless to say, beef is not all bad for you. The kind most of us eat though is not that good and the "natural" trans-fat in beef is higher in corn-fed which would explain why it tastes(to most people) so much better. Just like Krispy Kreme and MuckDonald's.
The other issue here is that any time more than 100 animals are sequestered into fattening pens the methane downwind creates acid rain. Cattle raised on marginal land not suitable for cultivation do not create these phenomena.Of course poorly managed cattle can be the fourlegged locusts that devestate anything green in its path but what legacy do we have from the years of feedlots in the Hermiston area? Nitrates in out groundwater. The corn industry has a huge sway in this country as to subsidies and supports for a crop that covers much of several states. The sacred cow may be a corn stalk.
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2006;15(1):21-9.
Effect of feeding systems on omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid and trans fatty acids in Australian beef cuts: potential impact on human health
J Anim Sci. 2008 Dec;86(12):3575-85. Epub 2008 Jul 18
Effects of conventional and grass-feeding systems on the nutrient composition of beef
Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2003;12 Suppl:S38
Feeding regimes affect fatty acid composition in Australian beef cattle
Needless to say, beef is not all bad for you. The kind most of us eat though is not that good and the "natural" trans-fat in beef is higher in corn-fed which would explain why it tastes(to most people) so much better. Just like Krispy Kreme and MuckDonald's.
The other issue here is that any time more than 100 animals are sequestered into fattening pens the methane downwind creates acid rain. Cattle raised on marginal land not suitable for cultivation do not create these phenomena.Of course poorly managed cattle can be the fourlegged locusts that devestate anything green in its path but what legacy do we have from the years of feedlots in the Hermiston area? Nitrates in out groundwater. The corn industry has a huge sway in this country as to subsidies and supports for a crop that covers much of several states. The sacred cow may be a corn stalk.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Ketosis May have some benefits for Epileptic Children
The British journal Pediatrics has pre-released research findings on children who were put on low carb diets to prevent epileptic seizures. The diet was effective in preventing seizures but also created kidneys stones. The addition of potassium citrate supplements helped the participants continue the study. Those who maintained the diet for two years were free of seizures. Metabolism and epilepsy are subjects for further research in nutrition.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Horror @ the Bookstore
Just in time for Halloween. They call it a Zesty Low Carb Protein Snack. I call it a .25$ a shot recipe for a heart attack or worse. Look at the ingredients. Then the Nutrition "Facts" See any Trans fats listed? No, neither do I, yet we know hydrogenation creates trans fats from PUFAs we find in soybean oil. They taste a little stale (the pull date 2/10) as these nuts should be in a non-clear container as PUFAs are sensitive to light and heat. Definitely low in carbs but at what price? Trans fats may be less than 1 gram per serving and not be listed according to a spokesperson @FritoLay in Plano TX.
Guess who took someone out to lunch? Someone with a big machine that makes hydrogenated products for junk food junkies some of who are diabetic. Who is kidding about healthy food I had trouble finding anything in the bookstore worth putting in my body. This is a thing we might take on as a class project.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Queen of Fats
I am reading Susan Allport's book The Queen of Fats: Why Omega-3s were Removed from the Western Diet and What We can Do to Replace Them. As we have discussed briefly in class it is difficult to find populations that are isolated from western dietary influences. One of these occured in a Danish study of greenlander Indigeneous diet. These hunting and fishing communities ate a diet high in animal fats and cold water animals. Heart disease as experienced in comparable ethnic populations in Denmark was only 10 % of the rates. This was in the early 70s before we knew as much about Omega-3 fatty acids and its role in keeping blood from clotting. It was discovered during the process of drawing blood samples that the natives kept bleeding. It was also found that nosebleeds were common in the community.As the towns progressed and began consuming the western diet that arrived on the ships the cohort was lost and they were soon experiencing the same rates of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity as European ancestors.The book talks about the role of EPA in cognition and degenerative disorders of the eye, brain and heart. The oils that flex and turn to create vision in the optic nerve cannot be replaced with corn oil. eat your greens the dark green leafy kind.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Your Gut
It is your connection to the outside world. The alimentary canal aka the gut. 5 pounds/2.3 Kg of flora and fauna living on the walls and in suspension in "hole in the doughnut" that is where we derive energy for all our life activities.These colonies and communities are not part of us(not human tissue but have evolved to exist in symbiosis) yet we need them as much as they need us. It is also where we acquire pathogens that can infect and start "eating" us. Keeping the intestinal flora and fauna healthy is discussed here.
http://yourownhealthandfitness.org/
available as a free podcast until 10/27/09.
http://yourownhealthandfitness.org/
available as a free podcast until 10/27/09.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Oiling of America
I discovered another opinion out there. A woman named Mary Enig PhD., as in enigma to the oilseed industry has been stirring the pot since 1978. Ms Enig is doing research on lipids and is quite an authority on lipids. She is not in agreement on the USDA AHA ACA line on PUFAs being the only fats we need to be healthy and fit. Of course, admissions that up to 3 grams of omega 3 oils are admissible, the limits on omega 6 are not as strict and the total elimination of tropical oils has had an unexpected outcome. She takes an historical perspective on the history of heart disease and how there may may be a different way of looking at lipids than is currently germain. I will have more top say about this later.
http://www.totalfitness.net/downloads/Oiling%20America.pdf
You might want to read it now, but if you are like me and have a mid-term tomorrow, it will wait for you.The revolution has not started to gather enough steam yet. I am gonna have a latte and think about this and microbes for a while.
http://www.totalfitness.net/downloads/Oiling%20America.pdf
You might want to read it now, but if you are like me and have a mid-term tomorrow, it will wait for you.The revolution has not started to gather enough steam yet. I am gonna have a latte and think about this and microbes for a while.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
New Findings on Folate and Birth Weight
Birth Weight Increase Seen with Folic Acid Supplementation
October 2009
A study from the Netherlands finds that supplements of folic acid taken by the mother before conception may increase the birth weight of the baby by more than 60 grams.
Beginning folic acid supplementation before becoming pregnant was also associated with a 57% reduction in the risk of low birth weight and a 60% reduction in the risk of a baby that was small for gestational age (SGA), according to findings published online in the British Journal of Nutrition. The results add credibility to recommendations of a daily dose of 400 mcg for women of childbearing age, starting before conception.
Currently, supplementation with folate and folic acid—the synthetic, bioavailable form of folate—is recommended for all women of child-bearing age, since most neural tube defects (NTDs), including spina bifida and anencephaly, occur within the first 22 to 28 days of pregnancy, when the mother-to-be is not yet aware she is even pregnant. Folic acid supplements after this time are too late to prevent neural tube defects and therefore fail to benefit women with unplanned pregnancies—more than half of all pregnancies in the U.S.
This connection between folate deficiency in early pregnancy and an increased risk of NTDs led to the 1998 introduction of public health measures in the U.S. and Canada, where all grain products are fortified with folic acid.
The Dutch researchers, led by Sarah Timmermans, analyzed data on 6,353 pregnancies and considered the effects of folic acid supplementation (400 to 500 mcg per day) before, during and after conception on the birth weight of infants.
The Generation R Study found that folic acid supplementation before conception was linked with heavier babies and heavier placentas (13 grams more), compared to the infants of women who did not take any folic acid supplements.
Benefits were recorded for women who started the folic acid supplements after having their pregnancy confirmed, with an association noted for a 39% reduction in the risk of low birth weight. Starting folic acid supplementation before becoming pregnant was associated with reductions of over 50% in the risks of low birth weight and small for gestational age (SGA).
"In conclusion, periconception folic acid supplementation is associated with increased fetal growth resulting in higher placental and birth weight and decreased risks of low birth weight and SGA," concluded Timmermans and her co-workers.
British Journal of Nutrition Published online ahead of print.
Eat your greens all you pregnant ones. Your babies are healthier and happier.
October 2009
A study from the Netherlands finds that supplements of folic acid taken by the mother before conception may increase the birth weight of the baby by more than 60 grams.
Beginning folic acid supplementation before becoming pregnant was also associated with a 57% reduction in the risk of low birth weight and a 60% reduction in the risk of a baby that was small for gestational age (SGA), according to findings published online in the British Journal of Nutrition. The results add credibility to recommendations of a daily dose of 400 mcg for women of childbearing age, starting before conception.
Currently, supplementation with folate and folic acid—the synthetic, bioavailable form of folate—is recommended for all women of child-bearing age, since most neural tube defects (NTDs), including spina bifida and anencephaly, occur within the first 22 to 28 days of pregnancy, when the mother-to-be is not yet aware she is even pregnant. Folic acid supplements after this time are too late to prevent neural tube defects and therefore fail to benefit women with unplanned pregnancies—more than half of all pregnancies in the U.S.
This connection between folate deficiency in early pregnancy and an increased risk of NTDs led to the 1998 introduction of public health measures in the U.S. and Canada, where all grain products are fortified with folic acid.
The Dutch researchers, led by Sarah Timmermans, analyzed data on 6,353 pregnancies and considered the effects of folic acid supplementation (400 to 500 mcg per day) before, during and after conception on the birth weight of infants.
The Generation R Study found that folic acid supplementation before conception was linked with heavier babies and heavier placentas (13 grams more), compared to the infants of women who did not take any folic acid supplements.
Benefits were recorded for women who started the folic acid supplements after having their pregnancy confirmed, with an association noted for a 39% reduction in the risk of low birth weight. Starting folic acid supplementation before becoming pregnant was associated with reductions of over 50% in the risks of low birth weight and small for gestational age (SGA).
"In conclusion, periconception folic acid supplementation is associated with increased fetal growth resulting in higher placental and birth weight and decreased risks of low birth weight and SGA," concluded Timmermans and her co-workers.
British Journal of Nutrition Published online ahead of print.
Eat your greens all you pregnant ones. Your babies are healthier and happier.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The daily planner
Before I start this, I want to ask, what is a Grip? I seem to have lost mine. I looked for "grips" on the walmart.com site I googled it. With all the resources I could muster I could not find a nutrient fact on "grips". So I assume they are very low in fat sugar and calories but useful on the golf course. Will wait for further instructions.
I logged in my eating for a day and then the next day and realized I was not getting enough CALORIES for my BMI and activity level(about 3200Kcal).I figured it out@ about 90-110 calories deficit a day = -10 pounds a year. Is this why I crash energy wise about 3-4 pm? I have used saturated fats to extend my energy after breakfast i.e. nuts and seeds and soymilk. I am waiting too long after arising to eat. My mom suggested I take 5 grams of vegetable protein after I get up and take my herbs and enzymes for my allergies. I have done this, though not noting it in the log, and I feel this has taken away some of the jaggedness I feel first thing in the morning. The other thing is I tend to wait too long to eat my evening meal because this is a very active time of day.
So I guess my goals are to eat more and eat more often. I think my diet is pretty good. If I followed the fat % guideline I think I would have difficulty keeping my weight up as I do not consume dairy or gluten and the amount of fiber I consume leads to a low BTT.I also would have difficulty maintaining the activity level I now enjoy although with some brief periods where I am cheating my reserves of stored ATP. I am hoping this is all I need to be steady in mood and energy.
The label reading exercise surprised me in that the two favorite kid foods; hot dogs and mac and cheese, were the highest in fat and calories respectively. These are one reason there is so much obesity. That and TV. But that's another subject for later.
I logged in my eating for a day and then the next day and realized I was not getting enough CALORIES for my BMI and activity level(about 3200Kcal).I figured it out@ about 90-110 calories deficit a day = -10 pounds a year. Is this why I crash energy wise about 3-4 pm? I have used saturated fats to extend my energy after breakfast i.e. nuts and seeds and soymilk. I am waiting too long after arising to eat. My mom suggested I take 5 grams of vegetable protein after I get up and take my herbs and enzymes for my allergies. I have done this, though not noting it in the log, and I feel this has taken away some of the jaggedness I feel first thing in the morning. The other thing is I tend to wait too long to eat my evening meal because this is a very active time of day.
So I guess my goals are to eat more and eat more often. I think my diet is pretty good. If I followed the fat % guideline I think I would have difficulty keeping my weight up as I do not consume dairy or gluten and the amount of fiber I consume leads to a low BTT.I also would have difficulty maintaining the activity level I now enjoy although with some brief periods where I am cheating my reserves of stored ATP. I am hoping this is all I need to be steady in mood and energy.
The label reading exercise surprised me in that the two favorite kid foods; hot dogs and mac and cheese, were the highest in fat and calories respectively. These are one reason there is so much obesity. That and TV. But that's another subject for later.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Squash Cake
This morning I had some summer squash leftover from dinner.
I made this
Squash cake
in a food processor or blender place
2 1/2 C baked summer squash peel and all
3 eggs
1/2 C raisins
1/4 C agave syrup
1/2 C soymilk
1/2 tsp gingerroot
blend well
sift
2 C rice flour
1/2 C coconut flour
1/2 rolled oats
1tsp soda
1tsp powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
add to dry stuff
1/4 c grapeseed oil
1/2 apple grated
add blended stuff(squash etc) and mix well
place in an oiled 9x11 pan
bake @350 35 minutes until toothpick comes clean
Enjoy.
I made this
Squash cake
in a food processor or blender place
2 1/2 C baked summer squash peel and all
3 eggs
1/2 C raisins
1/4 C agave syrup
1/2 C soymilk
1/2 tsp gingerroot
blend well
sift
2 C rice flour
1/2 C coconut flour
1/2 rolled oats
1tsp soda
1tsp powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
add to dry stuff
1/4 c grapeseed oil
1/2 apple grated
add blended stuff(squash etc) and mix well
place in an oiled 9x11 pan
bake @350 35 minutes until toothpick comes clean
Enjoy.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Soda Bread
Soda Bread Makes 2 loaves or 20 biscuits (oven 350) 35 minutes for biscuits
1 hour for bread
Part A
in a large bowl
2 carrots grated or 2 C baked squash or yams
1 cucumber grated
1 zucchini grated
Part B add these to the vegetables
¼ C apple cider vinegar
spices
fennel seed
caraway seed
cumin seed
dill weed
Sea salt
Set aside
Now…
Part C put all these in a food processor/blender in this order
2 ribs celery
½ onion or 2 bunches green onions or one leek (all if you want a really savory taste)
¼ C peanut butter
¼ C sunflower butter
¼ C coconut oil
1/3 C agave syrup
1 ½ t xanthan gum or two egg whites or ¼ C flaxseed meal
after some blending the mousse should hold a wave before combining with the A+B mixture to make ABC.
This(ABC) should look like a cake mix except its green and orange. At this time, I usually add 1 C of water or stock
Now Part D
10 C Brown rice flour
3 C Rolled Oats
1t soda
1t baking powder
add 3C rice and 1 C of oats and mix(henceforth3-1)
Part E
Repeat 3-1 with a10 minutes rest before the third 3-1 adding and mixing in of the soda and powder.
Continue mixing until the flour is used or the mixture is the consistency between cornbread batter and cookie dough.
Either take ½ c scoops and place biscuits on baking sheets or divide in half and toss in oiled and floured bread pans. The biscuits take 35 minutes and are great with hummus.
The bread takes just about an hour and needs to be completely cool before slicing. That is why I now make a few biscuits with the bread so I don’t have to wait. Good luck.
1 hour for bread
Part A
in a large bowl
2 carrots grated or 2 C baked squash or yams
1 cucumber grated
1 zucchini grated
Part B add these to the vegetables
¼ C apple cider vinegar
spices
fennel seed
caraway seed
cumin seed
dill weed
Sea salt
Set aside
Now…
Part C put all these in a food processor/blender in this order
2 ribs celery
½ onion or 2 bunches green onions or one leek (all if you want a really savory taste)
¼ C peanut butter
¼ C sunflower butter
¼ C coconut oil
1/3 C agave syrup
1 ½ t xanthan gum or two egg whites or ¼ C flaxseed meal
after some blending the mousse should hold a wave before combining with the A+B mixture to make ABC.
This(ABC) should look like a cake mix except its green and orange. At this time, I usually add 1 C of water or stock
Now Part D
10 C Brown rice flour
3 C Rolled Oats
1t soda
1t baking powder
add 3C rice and 1 C of oats and mix(henceforth3-1)
Part E
Repeat 3-1 with a10 minutes rest before the third 3-1 adding and mixing in of the soda and powder.
Continue mixing until the flour is used or the mixture is the consistency between cornbread batter and cookie dough.
Either take ½ c scoops and place biscuits on baking sheets or divide in half and toss in oiled and floured bread pans. The biscuits take 35 minutes and are great with hummus.
The bread takes just about an hour and needs to be completely cool before slicing. That is why I now make a few biscuits with the bread so I don’t have to wait. Good luck.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
10-08-09 Salmon Phytochemicals may Help against the ravages of Glucose
Today I shared the article from the American Journal of Epidemiology 170(4):464-471,2009.
Half the Canadians surveyed had less than optimum levels of Vitamin C which correlated with disease risk factors such as waist girth, BMI, inflammation, and blood pressure.
From the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry the phyto chemical Astaxathin found as the pink coloring naturally occurring in Salmon.Not yet published but findings are that this substance has a preventative against Advanced Glycation End (AGEs) which leads to kidney disease.
I am glad to finally study nutrition as a science rather than just as I read and learned from my own experience.
I was drawn to nutritiion as a teen-ager who wrestled and had to maintain a fighting weight. I was drawn even deeper into the need for quality nutrition while attending undergraduate school and taking stimulants to cheat sleep and metabolic limitations I thought were a "hassle" to deal with.
At age 35 while working on my second degree in Music Therapy I was struck with prostatitis and bladder infection. I made a vow to stop abusing myself after 17 years away from home. I started listening to the elders who knew a lot about food and longevity. I cut down on alcohol, cigarettes, and junk foods. 3 years later my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I found out the AMA does little to prevent disease(sic) through nutritional means. I called a Naturopath as the oncologist wrote my father off as "terminal" and suggested he "go to the liquor store buy a case of gin and prepare to die." The Naturopath had plenty to say about what to do next which lead to 8 months of remission and quality living before he went off the diet and died two months later. I am sure he was on the mend but was unable to resist his old diet of biscuits and gravy. He made the choice that I think killed him. We all make choices each day about food and nutrition. Some can be life changing for better or worse.
It was this event which inspired my present work and study at Blue Mountain CC in Hermiston Oregon. I am taking course work with the intent of becoming an RN. I hope this blog will keep a record of the events leading to the career I plan to do for the next 30 years if I am able.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
