Amazed. Definition: greatly surprised; astounded; suddenly filled with wonder.

That’s what one will experience after spending time reading the existing literature about curcumin.

Curcumin seems like a “nice” antioxidant and just simply part of the tasty spice turmeric-until you read the research and articles on supplements about it (and there are many.)

There is an enormous amount of research that’s been done on curcumin, and the vast areas of metabolism it seems to impact.

Even if you believe it’s valuable for optimal health, it’s sometimes difficult to appreciate just how valuable something like curcumin is until you invest the time to read a number of research reports about it.

In lieu of spending the upcoming weeks reading research reports, below is a summary of some of the most important information.

Be prepared.

You might want to head to your favorite Indian or Thai restaurant for some curry after you read this, and start supplementing with curcumin on a regular basis.

HISTORY OF CURCUMIN

Chances are good that you’ve heard of curcumin. If not, how about turmeric? If you do a little bit of cooking, you’ve probably used this spice. Or maybe you’ve eaten a curried dish at your favorite Indian or Thai restaurant.

Turmeric contains four major curcuminoids: curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, and cyclocurcumin.[i]

In addition to its use in cooking, turmeric is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, where its use can be documented as far back as 3000 BC.

The first study for its use in humans was done in 1937.[ii] Then in 1949 and 1972 it was shown to have a beneficial impact on blood sugar levels in humans.[iii]*

To date more than 3,000 studies have been conducted on curcumin.

Curcumin acts on more than 100 genetic pathways, so it has the potential to have positive effects on many functions in the body, helping to support the function of the neurological, cardiovascular, endocrine, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems.[iv]*

Because of these effects, it can be an important nutritional supplement for non-chronic, exercise-induced pain and soreness.*

One of curcumin’s most studied effects is its ability to help maintain the body’s ongoing normal inflammatory responses.* It does so through a large number of various biochemical pathways, some of which are yet to be fully understood.*

Because different, undesirable conditions can be brought about through different biochemical pathways, curcumin’s wide responses in the body can offer benefits in a number of different areas.*

MUSCLE AND TISSUE RECOVERY

Hindu medicine has long used curcumin to treat sprains and other swelling that results from injury.[v]*

An animal study showed that using curcumin following an injury to skeletal muscle enhanced muscle regeneration after just a few days use.[vi]*

In summarizing their study, the authors stated:

“curcumin is the first example of a pharmacological agent with a potent effect on stimulating muscle regeneration after trauma. Localized, as well as diffuse, muscle injuries could be treated with curcumin, because it is administered systemically. Enhanced repair of muscle would be beneficial not only in muscle trauma but also in reconstructive surgery and sports-related injuries.”*

One question that remains to be answered is the timing of taking curcumin. For an injury, or mild but acute trauma from an exercise session, a small amount of the body’s normal inflammatory response is desirable to initiate the repair process. An excessive inflammatory response is not so good.

That being said, given the other benefits that curcumin provides, it is not worth obsessing about the ideal timing because the use of curcumin supports optimal health and performance in other ways beyond alleviating soreness and supporting muscle recovery.*

Curcumin has also been shown to increase vasodilation similar to the effects of aerobic exercise, which can increase blood flow and nutrient delivery to tissues in need of repair.[vii]*

OBESITY, METABOLIC SYNDROME, AND FAT METABOLISM

Body fat is viewed as an endocrine organ, meaning fat cells aren’t simply balls of fatty acids that accumulate from too many cans of beer or dishes of ice cream.

Fat cells secrete a number of hormones, some of which increase inflammation. Adipose tissue secretes leptin, resistin, plasminogen, activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), and adiponectin. They also release interleukin-6 and interleukin-1, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF).[viii]

Excess body fat can be devastating to one’s health.

In mice, curcumin administration had a positive effect on body weight in a dose-dependent manner.[ix]* Its positive effects on body weight probably comes through a number of metabolic effects.*

Adiponectin levels increase with the use of curcumin.* Adiponectin levels are often reduced in obese individuals. Elevated adiponectin levels appear to be desirable in obesity.[x]*

Curcumin has also been shown to stimulate fatty acid oxidation in fat cells,* although these studies have not been followed up with human studies on curcumin’s effect on fat metabolism.[xi]

Curcumin supplementation demonstrated positive benefits in triglycerides and cholesterol in rats, with the benefit for cholesterol coming from the LDL-VLDL fraction.[xii]*

Another animal study showed the use of curcumin had positive impacts on free fatty acid levels, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and apolipoprotein A-1 levels.[xiii]* In vitro research shows LDL oxidation is reduced with curcumin as well.[xiv]*

A human study showed the use of curcumin has a beneficial impact on blood sugar levels.[xv]* Another human study showed curcumin use has beneficial impacts on HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Apo A, and Apo B.[xvi]*

DIGESTIVE HEALTH

One of the most difficult conversations for a healthcare professional to have with a client relates to digestive function. In fact, many patients will speak more freely about their sex life and how they hope nutrition and exercise programs will improve it, than they will about bowel movements, gas, and digestive troubles.

It’s a huge mistake to overlook this topic. Immune function, nutrient absorption, autoimmune conditions, and protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism all depend on a fully functioning digestive system.

As is the case in other parts of the body, long-term inflammation in the digestive tract can lead to more serious gastrointestinal problems.[xvii] One of curcumin’s many effects is to help maintain normal levels of inflammation in the cells lining the digestive tract.*

DEPRESSION

Curcumin has been shown to help modulate a number of neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.*

Dopamine is important for experiencing pleasure.* Serotonin is important for proper appetite, learning, mood, muscle relaxation, sleep, and metabolic health.* Norepinephrine affects alertness, emotions, dreaming, and learning.[xviii]*

Curcumin has been shown to support the growth of new brain cells, likely as a result of increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.[xix]*

Long-term use of curcumin has been shown to help support normal serotonin and dopamine levels.[xx]*

ISSUES WITH BIOAVAILABILITY

The research on curcumin is nothing short of significant.

Although the largest amount of the curcumin research is in vitro cell studies, there is a growing library of animal research.

The challenge for humans, however, was that until recently standard curcumin extract absorption was poor. Doses up to 12 grams per day showed little to no curcumin in the bloodstream.

This is important for consumers to understand, because many nutritional supplements only contain simple turmeric root or “curcumin extract.”  Curcumin’s reputation can make the product look desirable, but if the curcumin is not absorbed, then it won’t provide much, if any, benefit.

If you want to get the most out of the curcumin in your diet, or are a fan of curry, then make sure your meal contains fat. It is the oil in traditional curry dishes that enhances the absorption of dietary curcumin.

Fortunately, a number of curcumin delivery forms have been developed.  Some of the delivery forms include nanocrystals, emulsions, liposomes, self-assemblies, and nonogels.^xxi

One method to increase curcumin absorption is to take it with piperine, a constituent of black pepper.  This has been shown to increase absorption rates, although there is some concern about the means in which it does so.

To date, the most promising method in terms of absorption and its supporting research is curcumin phytosome.

Phytosome technology was invented by botanical supplier, Indena. Curcumin phytosome technology combines phosphatidylcholine with the curcuminoids in curcumin, resulting in a compound that is very well absorbed across the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream.*

Curcumin phytosome has been shown to be absorbed 29 times better than a standard curcumin extract.* Curcumin phytosome has been well studied as a nutritional supplement. Research shows this form of curcumin delivers the expected physiological results after being absorbed.*

Although phosphatidylcholine is used to facilitate the delivery of curcumin into the circulation, it has its own benefits as well. It is most commonly known to support liver and brain function.*

For now, cucumin phytosome seems to be the superior curcumin option available.  Nineteen clinical studies have specifically studied curcumin phytosome and found significant benefits to health and wellbeing.*

It there weren’t so much research to support curcumin, it would almost be hard to believe how many ways it can support health.*

But with over 5,000 years of use, and more than 3,000 research studies, it could be one of the most important botanical supplements in the world.*

Thorne Research offers Meriva-SR, a curcumin product made with curcumin phytosome. The SR stands for sustained release and contains Time-Sorb®, a time-release fiber matrix that creates a sustained-release formula allowing for an optimal curcumin blood level over time* A 2 capsule dose contains 500 mg of curcumin phytosome which is a great baseline level of curcumin.

Individuals with higher levels of exercised-induced soreness might benefit from 2-3 grams of Meriva per day.

CITATIONS FOR THIS ARTICLE

[i] Ahsan H, Parveen N, Khan NU, et al. Pro-oxidant, anti-oxidant and cleavage activities on DNA of curcumin and its derivatives demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Chem Biol Interact 1999;121:161-175.

[ii] Albert O. Turmeric (curcumin) in biliary diseases. Lancet 1937;229:619-621.

[iii] Aggarwal B, Sung B. Pharmacological basis for the role of curcumin in chronic diseases: an age-old spice with modern targets. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2009;30:85-94.

[iv] Zhou H, Beevers C, Huang S. Targets of curcumin. Curr Dru Targets 2011;1:12(3):332-347.

[v] Ammon H, Wahl M. Pharmacology of Curcuma longa. Planta Med 1991;57:1-7.

[vi] Thaloor D, Miller K, Gephart J, et al. Systemic administration of the NF-kappa B inhibitor curcumin stimulates muscle regeneration after traumatic injury. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 1999;277:320-329.

[vii] Vareed S, Kakarala M, Ruffin M, et al. Biomarkers Prev 2008;17:1411-1417.

[viii] Aggarwal B. Targeting inflammation-induced obesity and metabolic diseases by curcumin and other nutraceuticals. Annu Rev Nutr 2010;30:173-199.

[ix] Seely K, Levi M, Prather P. The dietary polyphenols trans-resveratrol and curcumin selectively bind human CB1 cannabinoid receptors with nanomolar affinities and function as antagonists/inverse agonists. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2009;330:31-39.

[x] Weisberg S, Leibel R, Tortoriello D. Dietary curcumin significantly improves obesity-associated inflammation and diabetes in mouse models of diabesity. Endocrinology 2008;149:3549-3558.

[xi] Ejaz A, Wu D, Kwan P, Meydani M. Curcumin inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and angiogenesis and obesity in C57/BL mice. J Nutr 2009;139:919-925.

[xii] Babu P, Srinivasan K. Hypolipidemic action of curcumin, the active principle of turmeric (Curcuma longa) in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Mol Cell Biochem 1997;166:169-175.

[xiii] Jang E, Choi M, Jung U, et al. Beneficial effects of curcumin on hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance in high-fat-fed hamsters. Metabolism 2008;57:1576-1583.

[xiv] Ramirez-Tortosa M, Aguilera C, Quiles J, Gil A. Influence of dietary lipids on lipoprotein composition and LDL Cu(2+)-induced oxidation in rabbits with experimental atherosclerosis. Biofactors 1998;8:79-85.

[xv] Srinivasan M. Effect of curcumin on blood sugar as seen in a diabetic subject. Indian J Med Sci1972;26:269-270.

[xvi] Ramirez-Bosca A, Soler A, Carrion M, et al. An hydroalcoholic extract of Curcuma longa lowers the apo B/apo A ratio. Implications for atherogenesis prevention. Mech Ageing Dev 2000;119:41-47.

[xvii] Camilleri M. Dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation: review and what’s new. RevGastroenterol Disord 2001;1:2-17.

[xviii] Kulkarni S, Dhir A, Akula K. Potentials of curcumin as an antidepressant. The Scientific World J2009;9:1233-1241.

[xix] Xu Y, Ku B, Cui L, et al. Curcumin reverses impaired hippocampal neurogenesis and increases serotonin receptor 1A mRNA and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in chronically stressed rats.Brain Res 2007;1162:9-18.

[xx] Bhutani M, Bishnoi M, Kulkarni S. Antidepressant-like effect of curcumin and its combination with piperine in unpredictable chronic stress-induced behavioral, biochemical and neurochemical changes.Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2009;92:39-43.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The posts on this blog are not intended to suggest or recommend the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease, nor to substitute for medical treatment, nor to be an alternative to medical advice. The use of the suggestions and recommendations on this blog post is at the choice and risk of the reader.

Like any other food, grains can have both beneficial and adverse health effects.  Ongoing studies have demonstrated that certain susceptible populations do much better on a gluten free or grain free diet, while most people are well equipped to tolerate small to moderate amounts of grains as part of a balanced diet.

Humans transition from hunter gatherers to farmers :

            Grains are a relatively new addition to the human diet, which until about 10,000-20,000 years ago consisted of wild meats, fresh fruits and vegetables.   As the planet’s population started to rise around the Pleistocene Era, humans abruptly transitioned from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to becoming farmers.  Grains have since become a staple food, and the dominant source of both calories and protein (up to 80%) in many developing countries.  It is estimated that “three cereals: wheat, maize and rice together comprise at least 75% of the world’s grain production” [2].

Benefits of Grain Consumption :

When combined with adequate amounts of meat and plant based foods, grains can be a cheap way to boost caloric intake.   In this sense, they have helped tremendously in helping to keep an increasingly overpopulated world fed.  Other benefits of whole grains include their ability to flush the body of excess lipids, which make them a valuable option for anyone trying to prevent cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and obesity.  Grains also contain B vitamins (except for B12), trace minerals, and anti-carcinogenic compounds which help protect against certain hormonally-mediated cancers.

Negative impacts of a grain-heavy diet :

On the other hand, the displacement of nutrient-rich foods with a grain-heavy diet can have a negative impact on health.  The chelating effect of whole grains can flush both undesirable elements AND essential nutrients from the body.  Additionally, a diet too-high in grains is usually deficient in essential nutrients like B12 and iron, and can inhibit the bioavailability of many important nutrients, as demonstrated in the table below [3].  The bioavailability of zinc, copper, iron, calcium and magnesium in cereal grains is also typically low.  For example, zinc from animal sources is 4 times more bioavailable.  It has been suggested that the substitution of heme foods with fiber & phytate rich grains is a large contributing factor to the global iron-deficiency epidemic. Cereal grains’ inherent nutritional imbalances can give rise to conditions like dwarfism (zinc deficiency), bone mineral pathologies (calcium deficiency), iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 & D deficiencies, and Pellagra (niacin and tryptophan deficiency).  In a study by Cohen, examining 51 different populations from around the world; physical stature, life span, and overall quality of life declined with the transition from a hunter-gatherer to an agricultural lifestyle.   A strong piece of supporting evidence that humans were not meant to consume a diet so high in grains is the fact that a plant-based diet alone cannot provide all of the essential nutrients required by humans. Whole grains contain no Vitamin A, no Beta-carotene (with the exception of yellow corn), no Vitamin C, and no Vitamin B12.  Cordain proposes that “The human nutritional requirement for vitamin B12 clearly demonstrates that vegetarian diets based entirely upon cereal grains, legumes and other plant foods were not the sole dietary components which shaped the human genome” [2].

Susceptible populations :

        Many conditions have been shown to improve with the elimination of grain consumption.  Thus far, only two autoimmune diseases have conclusively been linked directly with wheat consumption; celiac disease, in which the microvilli of the small intestine are destroyed by wheat proteins, and a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis.  However, ALL grains contain carbohydrate-binding proteins called lectins, which have the potential to “interact with a variety of

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other cells in the body” and “represent powerful oral immunogens capable of eliciting specific and high antibody responses” [2].  Simply put, because of their resistance to digestive breakdown, lectins can wind up circulating systemically, causing self-destruction of various body tissues.  Cordain believes that the secondary metabolites developed by cereal grains to ward off predatory herbivores “can be either toxic, anti nutritional, benign, or somewhere in between, dependent upon the physiology of the consumer animal” [2].Like any other food, grains may be tolerated better by some people as compared to others.  There is still much research to be done in elucidating the relationship of grains to allergies and autoimmune reactions.  However, many people with wide-ranging autoimmune conditions find that eliminating some or all grains from their diets helps to ameliorate their symptoms.

A common link found between autoimmunity and conditions like autism and schizophrenia are genes that code for the human leukocyte antigens (HLA).  Many autistic children experience improvement on a gluten-free diet, and interestingly, research shows that populations who consume little to no gluten-containing grains (rye, wheat, barley) have a lower prevalence of schizophrenia.  Studies have long shown that certain gluten peptides can behave like opioids, and that their effects can be reversed by using an opioid-antagonist drug called naloxone [2].  Some side effects of opioids (ie. heroin, codeine, methadone, morphine) include constipation, sedation/drowsiness, and respiratory depression.  They are usually prescribed to increase pain tolerance.

A variety of neurological conditions respond favorably to a gluten –free, grain-free or low-grain diet.  One of the earliest examples comes from a 1921 report by the Mayo Clinic demonstrating the Ketogenic Diet’s (KD) efficacy in treating a broad range of epileptic conditions. The diet consists of a high fat, adequate protein, and low carbohydrate diet.  KD is now an accepted treatment for epilepsy; strict compliance significantly reduces seizure frequency in up to one-third of patients [1]; better results than any one drug or combination of drugs. The KD has also demonstrated neuroprotective activity, and has shown promising results in ameliorating a wide array of neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.  While its mechanism of action is still unknown, the KD’s ability to reduce inflammation has shown great promise in the treatment of a variety of conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and even brain and prostate cancers [4].

In conclusion, the affordability of grains makes them an important supplement/ addition to boost the caloric content of many individuals’ diets worldwide.  Most people seem capable of tolerating a moderate amount of grains, as part of a well-balanced diet.   Although, with food allergy-related conditions on the rise, that issue is currently up for debate. The research does make one thing very clear: some highly susceptible populations are better off consuming a minimal amount of grains or eliminating them from their diets altogether.

Written by L.A.-based nutritionist, Vivian Kanchian

http://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/

https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian

https://www.facebook.com/20fourcarrots?ref=hl

For private consultations, email: 20fourcarrots@gmail.com

All written contents are copyright 2014 by Vivian Kanchian. No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements. Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

REFERENCES

1-http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22250030

2- http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/DietaryGuidelines/2010/Meeting2/CommentAttachments/Thong-186DOC.pdf

3- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16672077

4- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK50785/

If you’re into healthy living, chances are you’ve been hearing a lot of buzz surrounding the ancient ayurvedic practice of oil pulling; swishing the mouth with sesame oil for several minutes until the oil has become thick and viscous.

First, let’s address the fad factor. I am never quick to dismiss any folk remedy that’s been around longer than the relatively new practice of modern medicine. There is a lot of wisdom to be found in folk medicine, and there is generally a reason why the remedies have survived as long as they have. An idea that I would love for readers to get used to is that folk remedies, while oftentimes lacking costly clinical trials as proof that they work… come with hundreds to thousands of years of trial and error. If something has proven beneficial, it is human nature to keep it around. With a little research, you will find that there are many parallels in specific-condition treatments spanning across cultures (particularly Eastern cultures). In fact, plenty of parallels exist between ancient and modern medicine. For example, today’s vaccines are a riff on the ancient homeopathic concept that “like cures like”.

So, what does the science say about oil pulling? Fortunately, I found plenty of scientific evidence that speaks to its very real benefits. The interest in conducting these evidence-based studies (all of which were performed in India) are twofold. 1- India has lots of sesame oil, and it’s cheap. 2- Chlorhexidine, the most effective anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis rinse is 5-6 times more expensive. The general consensus of all the studies I reviewed show that sesame oil is nearly as effective as chlorhexidine in reducing and/ or eliminating bad breath and the organisms that are associated with it. An additional benefit of oil pulling is that unlike chlorhexidine, there is no risk of staining or potential allergic reaction (unless a person is allergic to sesame).
To date, there is no proof that oil pulling can detoxify the blood and organs. That said, perhaps its mechanism of action lies in the very modern idea that whole health begins first with oral health. While there is no conclusive theory on how oil pulling works to reduce halitosis and plaque build-up, it is evident that the interaction between salivary alkali and sesame oil during the swishing process lead to an emulsification/ saponification of the oil. This enhances the cleansing properties of sesame oil by increasing the surface area of the fat droplets; essentially, it’s like washing your mouth out with soap (many of us can benefit from this in more ways than one)! The viscosity of the oil probably helps prevent bacteria and plaque from sticking and accumulating. Additionally, the three lignans found in sesame oil – sesamin, sesamolin, and sesaminol – have antioxidant properties and help to promote the action of another important antioxidant, Vitamin E. This helps with plaque prevention and imparts anti-inflammatory benefits.

Bottom line:
Is it worth a try?
Absolutely!

How do I do it?
Take about a tablespoon of Eden organic sesame oil (you can also try this with Nutiva organic coconut oil- allow it to melt in your mouth first) and swish for 5-15 minutes, then spit out. The oil will become thicker and less pleasant-tasting the longer you swish. This is perfectly normal!

Written by L.A.-based nutritionist, Vivian Kanchian
Contributing writer for theglife.org
20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian
For private consultations, email: 20fourcarrots@gmail.com

by Vivian Kanchian

Before the days of modern medicine, doctors would prescribe water fasting for a variety of ailments, ranging from mild to severe.   So, what’s the modern day solution to detoxifying our bodies from an increasingly toxic world while still having the energy to fulfill our daily responsibilities?   Enter the juice fast! Erewhon’s 4-day Juice Detox package is a great introduction to juice fasting.  They spare you the hassle of peeling, chopping and clean-up, so all you have to do is drink up!

To learn more about how and when to use juicing, click https://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/.

While fiber is an important part of a regular diet, it has no place in a juice detox plan.   With a large majority of Americans suffering from digestive issues, juicing is a great way to bypass the digestive process by “pouring” nutrients directly into your bloodstream.  Giving your digestive system a rest will also redirect your body’s limited resources towards healing and repairing areas that previously may not have been receiving the attention they required.

Vegetables and low-sugar fruits are chock full of important nutrients.  Since many of us prefer not to have to eat 1-2lb. of raw vegetables per day, juicing can really come in handy.  How easy is it to get a full day’s servings of fruits and vegetables from a glass of juice?  Very!  Does this mean we shouldn’t eat plants with the fiber intact?  No!  Fiber IS important in keeping our arteries clean and for regularity, BUT it can also flush away important nutrients we want to hang onto!

When juicing outside of a detox plan, it is best to enjoy your juice on an empty stomach.  This means no solid food two hours before or after.

Calorie restriction has been linked to longevity

Researchers believe that a calorie restricted diet can increase a person’s quantity and quality of life.   Since most of us like to eat whenever and wherever we like, a twice yearly extended juice cleanse can put a nice dent in the number of calories we consume over a year.  Alternatively, you may choose to substitute a fresh pressed juice for one of your daily meals.  Yet another option is to have a once-per-week juice day.   To keep sugar intake at a minimum, try limiting your intake of fruit juices,   and reserve your sweeter juices for the daytime when you are at your most active.  It is important to note that detoxification does not begin until day 3 or 4, when your body runs out of the leftover fuel from the foods you’ve consumed.

Elimination diet to uncover food allergies –

In general, it is a good idea to ease your way into any fast by slowly eliminating animal foods, grains, and dairy over a period of about ten days.  The last two days should include only raw vegetables and low sugar fruits, after which you are ready to transition to juice-only.   When you’ve completed a juice fast, you may then reintroduce these foods one at a time to help determine which items you tolerate well and which ones you may want to omit from your diet altogether.

Coffee is one of the most chemically treated agricultural products on the planet.  Now imagine how years of ingesting artificial pesticides and herbicides are affecting your body and overall health.  Not only do these pesticides and herbicides affect your health, they also have long-term effects on the environment and farmers.  This is why it is important to drink organic coffee instead of conventional coffee!

The Environment

In order to produce less-expensive coffee, conventional growers cut down rainforests, creating full-sun coffee plantations throughout South America, Africa and Southeast Asia.  In some countries, entire rainforests are being cut down to make new coffee plantations.  And with deforestation, nutrients disappear with the vegetation.  Since there are no nutrients in the soil, chemical fertilizers are added to the plants.  Additionally, since the predators of coffee pests are eliminated along with the forest, harmful pesticides are added.  Deforestation also affects migratory bird populations by destroying their natural habitat.

Roughly 11 million acres of land gets used exclusively for the production of coffee.  Do we want to see 11 million acres clear-cut of rainforests and ecosystems ruined?  OF COURSE NOT!

Unlike these conventional coffee growers, organic coffee companies  are environmentally conscious.  The coffee plants we buy beans from are grown in the shade of the rainforest, keeping the ecosystem intact.  The ecosystem provides the right amount of nutrients for the plant, and its biodiversity eliminates the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides.  The coffee plants are also used by the song birds as their natural habitat.

Your Health

Did you know that over 70 percent of the world’s coffee supply is contaminated with toxic pesticides and chemicals?  The Environmental Protection Agency warns that 30 percent of insecticides, 60 percent of herbicides, and 90 percent of fungicides are carcinogenic.  When artificial pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers are used, the chemicals stay with the beans and end up in your body, damaging cells and organs in your body and often leading to several types of cancers.  The chemicals accumulate in body fat, and can cause damage to the nervous and reproductive systems.  These chemicals can also disrupt hormone and immune-system function.  Furthermore, pregnant and nursing women who ingest conventionally grown coffee pass the chemical residues on to their fetuses or nursing babies.  Since babies’ bodies contain less fat, the chemicals are more easily absorbed by their internal organs.  Pesticides and other farming chemicals have been linked with developmental and behavioral abnormalities.

Drinking organic coffee eliminates these health risks posed by conventional coffee, and it tastes better! Unlike conventional coffees, organically produced coffee is more vibrant and flavorful.  Many conventional coffees tend to leave you with a metallic or chemical aftertaste, or they are tougher on your stomach since they contain gastrointestinal irritants and cancer-causing agents from the pesticides.

The Farmer’s and Other Rural Resident’s Health

Pesticide use threatens farmers and other rural residents with exposures to toxic substances in the workplace or in water supplies.  For instance, in Mexico serious public health and water quality impacts have been linked to pesticide use.  In one documented case, more than 200 people became sick from drinking water contaminated with agricultural pesticides and fertilizers in the western Mexican state of Jalisco.  Additionally, according to official accounts compiled by Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA), more than 100 human poisonings and one death were attributed to insecticide use in coffee in 1993; more than 100 poisonings and three deaths were reported in 1994.

Increased nitrogen fertilizer applications have gone hand in hand with the widespread removal of shade coverage from Central American coffee plantations.  Heavy artificial fertilizer inputs in coffee have contributed to nitrate contamination of drinking water in Costa Rica, with the documented groundwater pollution in some cases exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) levels.  In high concentrations, nitrates can cause infant methemoglobinemia (“blue-boy syndrome”), a potentially fatal condition that slows down oxygen transport in infants’ bloodstream.  Other human health concerns surrounding nitrate contamination of groundwater include suspected links between nitrates and certain cancers, birth defects, hypertension, and developmental problems in children.

Make a Change

Stop drinking a cup of pesticides every morning and switch to organic coffee.  Look for the USDA Organic label and make a difference.  Only a moderate amount of coffee drinkers need to make the switch to organic coffee to make a significant positive impact on the environment, the lives of organic coffee farmers, and on your own health!

By Vivian Kanchian

After a European trip involving plenty of bread, pasta, and gelato… I came back to Los Angeles determined to “re-boot” my body with Metagenics’ 10-day detox plan.   For those seeking a lengthier option, Metagenics also offers a 28-day program.

Both versions of the cleanse are similarly designed to begin with a larger variety of approved food items towards the beginning, gradually eliminating certain foods while increasing the amount of nutritional supplements during the middle.  Towards the end of the cleanse, these foods are slowly added back in, and the nutritional supplements are whittled down.

I received the neat little package overnight;  an informational brochure, daily journal, AdvaClear capsules, helpful recipes, a shopping list, UltraClear Renew medical food protein powder in a new Peach Flavor (delicious!), and a shaker cup.  They really do make it easy to follow.

I like to do a Metagenics cleanse quarterly.  I also keep several jars of UltraClear pH around the house anytime I want a quick, healthy, low-calorie snack/ light meal at 180 calories per two scoops.  It’s a delicious treat blended with pure chilled water (Tip alert: makes all the difference)! However, you may choose to blend yours with fruits, fruit juice, or your choice of unsweetened milk.  The plastic shaker cup is nice, but I recommend investing in a stainless steel airtight Nissan thermos.  I place two scoops of the powdered supplement inside and seal.   I carry a bottle of chilled water with me wherever I’m going—simply adding and shaking up the mixture when I’m ready for my meal.

Another way to use UltraClear is during intermittent fasting such as the 5:2 plan [2], whereby a person eats normally 5 days per week, and restricts their calories the remaining 2 days to 25% of their regular intake: about 500 calories (women) or 600 calories (men) including lots of water and herbal tea.

Sample meal schedule for 5:2 plan:

On day 3 of my cleanse, I decided I would ignore the instructions to avoid strenuous or prolonged exercise and do a regular set at the gym— mistake!  About ¾ in, I turned around and went right back home.  Cleansing isn’t just about what you do or don’t eat, but about giving your body the appropriate amount of rest.   For the next several days, I would experience major fatigue– a classic side effect of detoxification.  I felt completely sapped of energy, and as a person who exercises regularly, I was surprised to find that even my light walks felt like a total chore.   Stick to mild exercise for the duration of your cleanse– your body will thank you for it!

My detox ended yesterday, and I am happy to report that I feel rejuvenated,  energetic, my eyes and skin are bright and clear, and I’m back to craving nutrient dense, healthy foods again.   I haven’t quite kicked my daily cravings for the shake yet, and since it’s so good for me… I’m in no hurry!

Why Metagenics?

-Backed by sound scientific research [3].

- Established in 1983, and currently the largest supplier of Practitioner-Only Natural Medicines in the U.S.

-Quality control checks exceeding GMP Standards (triple certification).

-Metagenics’ scientists’ and clinicians’ research articles have appeared in over 200 peer-reviewed medical journals.

-Shake and capsules are easily portable, and taste great.

-Low allergy, gluten free food.

-Continue to eat a balanced low-allergy diet throughout the detox program.

Could the Standard American Diet (SAD) be a major contributing factor to inflammation and ultimately, disease?

Diets high in animal protein and lacking in fruit and vegetable intake have been shown to raise the body’s acid load [1].  In an effort to create balance, the bones release alkaline phosphatase from storage resulting in bone loss, excess urinary calcium, and kidney stones.

Why do I need a cleanse ?

The air we breathe, the food we eat, skin exposure to:

Industrial Chemicals and Chemical Pollutants (Air we breathe)

Pesticides (Food we eat)

Endocrine Disruptors (Food we eat, Skin exposure: phthalates in plastics, PCB’s, steroids in meats)

Toxic Environmental Metals (Food we eat)

Food Additives, Preservatives, Drugs (Food we eat)

How the Metagenics program works:

UltraClear was designed for individuals with neuromuscular pain and stiffness in mind,  but it’s a versatile product that I recommend for anyone; particularly those with food, chemical, and environmental allergies.  Additionally, increasing evidence points to a relationship between an elevated toxic load and a broad spectrum of degenerative diseases [5],[6],[7].

Metagenics’ Detox Programs are designed to:

1-     eliminate high-allergy foods from the diet

2-     increase the intake of organic, plant-based alkalizing foods naturally rich in nutrients that aid in liver detoxification

3-     provide additional low-allergy nutritional support to enhance the detoxification process; particularly Phase II; UltraClear is made using a patented method that significantly reduces the already-low allergy potential of rice.

 What happens in the different Phases of liver detox?

Phase I :

The good:  For detoxification to happen, toxic fatty molecules are first converted into intermediates that are capable of binding water.  The bad:  As this occurs, damaging free radicals are created.

Phase II :

The transformed intermediates can now attach themselves to water-soluble molecules making it easy to excrete drugs, hormones, and toxins via the urine or bile.   This crucial phase requires adequate nutrients to ensure proper detoxification, while avoiding free radical damage [8].

Phase III :

Toxins are transported out of the body via urine or stool; alkaline conditions can help facilitate this process [1].

Metagenics UltraClear is fortified with these important nutrients to help facilitate Phase II detox, while simultaneously promoting alkaline pH levels:

• Zinc, pantothenic acid, and beneficial probiotics
• Vitamins A, B3, B6, B12, C, E, beta-carotene, and folates
• Amino acids L-cysteine, L-glutamine, and taurine
• N-acetylcysteine, sodium sulfate, and L-glutathione
• Green tea catechins
• Low-allergy-potential protein/carbohydrates
• Potassium Citrate *

* May promote alkaline pH levels [1] when used in conjunction with a high vegetable detoxifying diet; resulting in improved kidney function and detoxification.

Some foods that are particularly good to include during your cleanse (as allowed—refer to booklet) to promote Phase II detox include:

Fruits and vegetables in a rainbow of colors (raw or lightly steamed), particularly sulphur-rich cruciferous vegetables [4] like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy.  Raw or steamed beets are highly detoxifying.  Foods high in potassium citrate: leafy green vegetables, spinach, artichoke, lima beans, acorn squash, skin-on baked potatoes, dried plums and apricots, melon, banana, wild-caught salmon, grass-fed organic yogurt.  Raw, unhulled sesame seed paste (tahini) can be eaten through the entire duration of the cleanse. *

To read more about the many benefits of sesame, click here !

* As with any other food on the approved foods list, avoid if you have a known allergy.

Turmeric – Click here http://wp.me/p2s3V1-7

Bitter herbs (dandelion, sorrel, endive, chicory/ radicchio, chamomile)

To begin your supervised cleanse, or to find out which Metagenics products are right for you,  contact Erewhon’s Dr. Whimsy for a consultation today.

All written contents are copyright 2014 by Vivian Kanchian [http://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/], [https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian], [https://www.facebook.com/20fourcarrots], Certified Alternative Nutrition Expert.

No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements.  Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

References

1- http://www.metadocs.com/pdf/publications/0707_minich.pdf

2- http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/08/17/intermittent-fasting-high-intensity-exercise.aspx?x_cid=20140817_lead_facebookdoc

3- http://www.modernhcp.com/AT-PDFS/0311_lamb.pdf

4- http://jn.nutrition.org/content/131/11/3027S.full

5- http://www.researchgate.net/publication/15634352_A_preliminary_investigation_of_chlorinated_hydrocarbons_and_chronic_fatigue_syndrome

6- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9790486

7- http://nro.sagepub.com/content/8/3/192

8- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249911/

by Vivian Kanchian, Certified Alternative Nutrition Expert

All of my articles generally start with a question for which I personally would like to know the answer.  In this case, it was about alternative sweeteners.  It seems like only yesterday that agave was being touted as a panacea to all our ‘sweet tooth’ cravings.   Today, we’re hearing increasingly about sugar alcohols (all sweeteners ending in –ol).

After  a brutal Los Angeles heat wave, I knew I needed something more than just water to replenish the electrolytes I was losing over these long, sweaty summer days!  I wanted a healthy option.  While picking up lunch one day, I noticed Zero Vitamin Water (ZVW) was on sale: 10 bottles for $10; Vitamin Water’s “healthier” cousin.  I scanned the ingredients list, which was relatively minimal and was delighted to find that each bottle contained less than 1 gram of sugar per serving (from a blend of erythritol, fructose, stevia), plus added vitamins and minerals.   The bottles came in all the colors of the rainbow, and in appealing flavors like blueberry, pomegranate, and acai.  And the taste?   Just like liquid jell-o– delicious!

What makes these sweeteners especially attractive is their relatively sugar-like flavor, low glycemic index, low calorie content, and prevention of dental caries (cavities).  Sugar alcohols are now used in diet and diabetic foods, chewing gums, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

Here’s what my investigations into Zero Vitamin Water turned up:

Erythritol  (ERT) is cheaply produced in large quantities using certain yeasts. In a healthy person, about 90% of the sweetener goes from the small intestine (bypassing the large intestine) directly to the bloodstream and is then excreted via the urine.  It was approved in 2001 by the FDA as a food additive.

ERT is usually combined with other highly concentrated sweeteners, because it is only mildly sweet on its own.  In the case of VitaminWater, that concentrated sweetener is Crystalline Fructose (CF) which usually consists of a whopping 98% pure fructose!  CF is usually made from corn starch, sucrose, or table sugar. Since corn is so cheap and readily available, it is highly likely that corn starch is the starting ingredient.  Consumers are left to guess, since Coke doesn’t disclose the origins of their CF.  HFCS used to come in two forms (HFCS55 : 55% fructose, 45% glucose or HFCS42 : 42% fructose, 58% glucose).  By all appearances, High Fructose Corn Syrup just got a new makeover to appear more consumer-friendly.  And the problem with fructose is that 100% of the metabolic burden is placed on the liver.

Sugar alcohols : Are they a safe alternative?

Pros:

Studies show that Xylitol helps prevent cavities [7].

Xylitol may inhibit Streptococcus pneumoniae virus [1].

Erythritol and Xylitol in particular taste very much like sugar.

Very low in calories.

Very low glycemic index makes them appealing to diabetics and the overweight population.

Erythritol has a much higher digestive tolerance compared to some of the other sugar alcohols (varies depending on a person’s gut health).

Unknowns:

Only a handful of in vitro studies evaluating the genotoxicity of Erythritol exist. These results have found no mutagenic/ carcinogenic properties.  However, it is difficult to predict a human outcome based solely on lab studies; and limited ones, at that.

Erythritol is being investigated as a natural insecticide; studies show it’s toxic to some flies [5].

Limited studies in rats have shown a potential link between the ingestion of sorbitol and/ or mannitol on the formation of  medullary lesions which are associated with neurological disorders [4]; human studies are currently lacking.

Cons:

In those with digestive issues*, excess fluid accumulates in the lumen resulting in bloating, gas, and diarrhea due to the fermentation of intestinal contents.  Over time, this can lead to or exacerbate chronic nutrient-deficiencies, weight loss or gain, and related health conditions. * an estimated 60-70 million Americans [2]

Combining short-chain carbohydrates (also called FODMAP’s) like sorbitol, maltilol, xylitol, erythritol, and fructose can trigger Irritable Bowel symptoms in those with visceral hypersensitivity .  Interestingly,  a 50/50 ratio  (minimum 50% glucose) of fructose and glucose inhibits these effects.  To learn more about the FODMAP’s diet, click here [6].

Studies have shown that short term supplementation with ERT can be a potential diuretic agent which could lead to dehydration (the opposite of what Vitamin Water is meant to do).

May contribute to altered gut flora, which could lead to a vast array of disorders [8] and obesity [3].

What about Stevia?

A 2013 study [9] revealed that Stevia has the potential to alter the gut flora by inhibiting certain strains of Lactobacilli .

While the human studies are currently insufficient, there is reason to believe that Stevia can play a role in triggering or inhibiting the release of some hormones [10].

Bottom Line: 

Until more comprehensive, conclusive studies have been conducted… avoid or limit all of the above if you can.

Take fructose only in whole fruit form or with other glucose containing foods.*

*For juice cleanses containing fruit, add psyllium husk to the regimen  

All written contents are copyright 2014 by Vivian Kanchian, Certified Alternative Nutrition Expert.

[http://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/], [https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian], [https://www.facebook.com/20fourcarrots].

No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements.

Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

REFERENCES

1-    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC90255/

2-    http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/statistics/statistics.aspx

3-    http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/enhanced/doi/10.1111/j.1467-789X.2012.01009.x/

4-    http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0273230096900550

5-    http://www.livescience.com/46107-artificial-sweetener-insecticide.html

6-    http://www.healthhype.com/low-fructose-diet-in-fructose-malabsorption.html

7-    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7607747

8-    http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/568375_1

9-    http://www.bioportfolio.com/resources/pmarticle/791570/The-influence-of-stevia-glycosides-on-the-growth-of-Lactobacillus-reuteri-strains.html

10-http://press.endocrine.org/doi/abs/10.1210/jc.2012-1475

Why You Can Eat Chocolate Every Day (with a Few Caveats)

“Honestly, it felt like a party in my mouth,” my coworker candidly said. “I’ve never felt something so intense and bitter and, well, incredible”

She was describing a recent visit to Paris, where an off-the-beaten-path detour led her to a tiny corner store, “just like out of the movies!” There she chose two squares of dark chocolate, one with ground hazelnuts and one plain, using broken French and then pointing when the shopkeeper did not understand her.

“Truthfully, I wasn’t having the best day,” she continued. “My boyfriend and I had a fight. He went to the Louvre while I chose to wander. Dramatic though it may sound, those few chocolate-filled moments instantly brightened my mood, invigorating me and challenging me to get out of my comfort zone.

My coworker needn’t sell me about chocolate’s benefits. “Give me chocolate or give me death” has long been a popular mantra, and I’ve sung its benefits at every opportunity.

Chocolate Helps You Feel Better

I can explain why those dark chocolate squares brightened my coworker’s mood. Studies show chocolate boosts serotonin (your happy hormone) and triggers a rush of feel-good endorphins very similar to that just-in-love feeling.

Chocolate also contains anandamide, which your brain naturally produces and which activates the same target as marijuana. Not only that: two chocolate ingredients inhibit anandamide breakdown. You not only feel better; that feel-good boost sticks around even longer, which becomes a win-win in my book.

Combined with its caffeine (a one-ounce chocolate square contains about 12 mg) and other nutrients, you can better understand why a few chocolate squares can brighten your day.

Dark chocolate also contains magnesium, which I call the ahhh mineral. If I’m having a stressful day, taking 200 mg of magnesium citrate always puts me in better spirits. When someone tells me they crave chocolate, I almost always connect a magnesium deficiency.

A one-ounce dark chocolate square contains about 10% of your Daily Value (DV) for magnesium. Nothing to write home about, but considering upwards of 80% of Americans has magnesium deficiencies… Well, every little bit helps.

Chocolate’s Myriad Health Benefits

Journalists love writing about chocolate because it’s that rare decadent food that also bestows health benefits. Personally, my eyes glaze over about said benefits. “I know dark chocolate is good for you,” I want to say. “Eating it is much more fun than reading about it.”

About 10 years ago, the British Medical Journal published an article about the ideal meal: Seven ingredients that, if you ate them every day, could reduce cardiovascular disease risk over 75 percent.

What did that Polymeal (as they called it) constitute? Wine, fish, nuts, garlic, fruits, vegetables, and – my favorite – chocolate. Yes, chocolate.

Far from just being an indulgence, chocolate carries a plethora of health benefits. For one, it contains more phenolic antioxidants than most foods.

Studies show those antioxidants can help reduce your risk for insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Epicatechin (yeah, the same stuff as in green tea) provides cocoa’s cardiovascular benefits.

Cocoa can also reduce inflammation, protect your skin from UV damage, boost satiety, and improve cognitive function as well as mood.  One study found Italians who regularly eat dark chocolate have lower amounts of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein.

I could go on, but then that would turn into those kind of chocolate-is-healthy articles I dismiss. Regardless, if you need more reasons to eat chocolate (and for the record, I don’t), well, there you go.

Life’s Little Luxuries

In this splendid article from Alexander Green for Spiritual Wealth Newsletter, one paragraph especially stood out as yet another benefit of chocolate:

Even in tough times like these, chocolate is a luxury you can afford. Pastry chef Norman Love points out that “You can buy two bars of the best chocolate in the world for $5. The Queen of England can’t buy any better chocolate than you can.”

Five bucks doesn’t buy much these days, but it can buy you a few pieces of excellent chocolate in the finest boutiques in Los Angeles or Paris or New York or pretty much any city.

Personally, I would rather spend five bucks on a few pieces of chocolate rather than a Starbucks coffee or a glass of wine, but everyone has their pleasure.

Dark Makes All the Difference

Yes, you can eat chocolate every day, with a few major caveats. You must choose the right kind.

“Milk chocolate and white chocolate have virtually none of [dark chocolate’s] health benefits,” writes Dr. Jonny Bowden in his excellent book The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. “Plus, the commercial candy bars are loaded with extra sugar, fat, waxes, and chemicals that are not what you want to be adding to your diet. And the more chocolate is processed, the more the beneficial flavonoids are lost.”

“Dark” should preface chocolate. Now, manufacturers have become savvy that people favor dark chocolate because of its health benefits, so they use the adjective more often these days. Just because it says “dark” doesn’t automatically make it healthy. Read those labels and don’t be easily swayed.

You want to look for dark chocolate at least 70% cacao, preferably more, look for organic chocolate with no more than seven grams of sugar per serving. If you grew up eating Hershey’s, you might be in for an, um, bitter awakening with dark chocolate. You might not initially love it, but look at it this way: You’re refining your palate. Pretty soon, that drugstore milk chocolate junk will taste like junk. Trust me.

Few chocolates will make that cut, but they’re worth seeking out. Whatever you do – and you know this – steer clear of most commercial stuff. You deserve the very best chocolate, so make it your mission to find your city’s best chocolatiers and frequent them often.

Moderation really becomes key here. Break off one serving and pawn the rest or hide it in your freezer. Chocolate is not a more-is-better food, and too much can stall fat loss or even make you gain weight.

On a healthy chocolate search? Here’s a suggestion (available at Erewhon Natural Foods Markets Los Angeles and Calabasas): Lover’s Raw Chocolate. Lover’s Raw Chocolate is handmade artisan chocolate. It’s an organic, raw heirloom superfood that’s fairly-traded. It’s vegan, GMO free, gluten free, and low glycemic and did I mention?…delicious!

Prepare for the Cold and Flu Season with Premier Research Labs

Premier Research Labs manufactures all food-based, live-source supplements, with no toxic additives, fillers, binders or excipients. They work to support the body on a biochemical and energetic level. Therefore, the supplements not only provide the nutrients needed to support chemical pathways, but they also raise the resonance (body of light) or energy of the cell. It is through this combination, that you will see more profound results than with any other product, since other products either work on a biochemical model, or an energetic one.

In order to strengthen the immune system to prevent the onset of the cold or flu, I suggest the following supplements:

1. Vitamin D3 Serum (liquid)

We all have to have heard of the many benefits of vitamin D and fortunately they are true. Vitamin D has shown to activate over 300 antimicrobials in the body, effectively preventing the onset of the cold or flu. Now the catch is that vitamin D needs to be activated by the liver and the kidneys, as well as effectively processed with the help of the gallbladder (it’s a fat-soluble vitamin), making it a difficult vitamin to utilize. What this means is that many people are not able to reach high enough levels of blood saturation of the vitamin for it to be a cold and flu fighter, because of their health status. So what I propose is that patients increase their intake, and take D3 with a meal.

Premier Research Labs’ D3 serum is made with an olive oil base and is simple to take. It has NOT been extracted with hexane (a petrochemical) and it has been humanely derived from sheep’s wool. Compared to Vitamin D2 (used in food fortification), research indicates that Vitamin D3 can be more than 3 times as effective as D2 in maintaining and raising vitamin D blood levels. I suggest taking about 12 drops as a loading dose for 4-6 weeks, and then moving down to 3-6 drops daily. If you have health issues with your gallbladder, kidneys or liver, I would recommend staying on a higher dose. It is always a good idea for clients to get their Vitamin D levels tested.

Other benefits of D3 Serum:

1. Protects mucosal and breast tissues

2. Essential for bone health: D3 is necessary for the absorption of calcium

3. Protects the nerves (myelin sheath)

4. Increases cognition, memory and mood 5. Cardiovascular health: maintains a healthy inflammatory response, blood vessel relaxation and blood flow

Retail Cost: $10.95 for a .5 fluid ounce bottle.

2. Colostrum IgG (powder and capsules)

Colostrum is the single most potent immune boosting substance I have found, being extremely rich in immunoglobulins (natural antibodies) at 25%. It is an excellent stand- in immune system to prevent illness, when you are sick or dealing with recovery of injury. Colostrum is also excellent for babies and children as it has all of the growth factors needed for health and even comes in powder form. It supports beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, healthy oxygen transport in the blood (lactoferrin), and is the richest source of natural MSM, a sulfur compound which helps promote a strong and healthy immune system. In addition, Colostrum is the only known food source of NAA (N-Acetylneuraminic Acid), one of the 8 healing sugars, necessary for optimal human physiology and growth. Although NAA is made by the body, levels decline with age and stress, leaving most people deficient. NAA promotes brain development, learning, memory and enhanced performance. NAA is an immune modulator and promotes healthy cholesterol within the normal range.

Colostrum comes from the first milk of cows, which is the most nutrient- rich, bioavailable form of immune boosting factors. It contains everything that a newborn needs to survive, making it a concentration of nutrients needed for a life form. Premier Research Labs sources its colostrum from organic cows: grass-fed, antibiotic and hormone-free, and truly pampered beings. It can be taken as a supplement, or the powder can be added into food. It tastes like milk, so it goes great in smoothies, breakfast cereals (porridge, oatmeal), or can just be added to milk itself.

Other benefits:

1. Diarrhea, and loose stools

2. Poor spleen function (low white blood cell count)

3. Poor breast milk production

4. Add to a baby formula

5. Failure to thrive

6. Prevents recurring upper respiratory conditions

Cost: Colostrum 5 oz. Powder ($64.95) – better value than capsules (50 servings) Colostrum Capsules ($14.95)

In order to address and tackling a current cold/flu, I recommend the following:

3. Nucleo Immune (capsules)

Nucleotides are fundamental nutrients, like minerals, which must be supplied from outside the body (each of our cells contains 6 billion nucleotides). They are the building blocks of RNA and DNA, which allow them to promote cell regeneration and rapidly boost the immune system. Research shows that nucleotides can diminish the symptoms and duration of the common cold as well as the flu. In research trials, nearly all patients on a therapeutic course of nucleotides reported significantly less discomfort associated with the symptoms of colds and flu and experienced a substantially accelerated recovery. These symptoms included sinus pain, earache, headache, diminished taste, high body temperature, dry mouth, swollen glands and muscle aches.

I have seen some of the greatest results with this product, not only in preventing a cold and flu but also dead stopping one once you have it. Furthermore, having this around the house is excellent because it can expedite any healing process, whether from illness, injury or surgery by 67%.

Other key immune supporting nutrients:

1. Chlorella

2. Kelp

3. Noni

4. Nopal Cactus

5. Dandelion

6. Turmeric

7. Bitter orange and bitter melon

8. Thyme

9. Self Heal

10. Pacific Yew

11. Tomato (lycopene)

12. Beta-sitosterol *Off-label dosage: Preventatively I take about 6 daily, and for acute conditions (meaning you have the cold/flu, or are injured or ill) I would take 12 daily. In some severe cases, up to 24 capsules is taken daily.

Cost: $24.95 for 60 capsules

4. ImmunoVen (capsules)

Nature’s broad-spectrum antibiotic. ImmunoVen is the best choice product for tackling any chronic or acute infection that is from an unknown pathogen. Whether the infection is viral or bacterial, ImmunoVen is the best FIRST choice. I personally like to pair ImmunoVen with the Nucleo Immune for the most effective attack against infection. The two products work synergistically, as the Nucleo Immune activates and supports the immune system, while the ImmunoVen acts as the anti-infective agent.

Its key anti-infective agent is Olive Leaf, which actually help destroy viruses, fungi, bacteria, and parasites that cause disease. Although olive leaf extract is capable of killing a broad range of infection-causing agents, it does not harm the beneficial bacteria in your body, unlike antibiotics. Many studies show it to be very safe, nontoxic and effective, even for children.

It’s other key antimicrobial agents are Reishi and Coriolus. Coriolus is one of the world’s most researched plants for serious immune challenges. It is often referred to as “the medicinal mushroom.” Research from Japan and China has shown it to be 90% effective against cancer.

Reishi is unrivaled in its long history as one of the most powerful herbs to boost healthy immune system function. It contains unique, rare polysaccharides, which have been proven to increase the RNA and DNA in the bone marrow, where the body makes B cells. Studies show that Reishi promotes both B cells and T cells, specialized cells that are a critical part of the immune system.

Other powerful infection-fighting nutrients:

1. Noni

2. Coriander

3. Kelp *Off-label dosage recommendation: adults – 6 capsules daily up to 12 capsules

Cost: $19.95 for 60 capsules

5. Multi Immune (capsules)

Multi Immune is the product you will use when Nucleo Immune and ImmunoVen do not work. Multi Immune is a key anti-infective agent that targets upper respiratory/mucosal membrane infections, specifically those that are chronic and do not find resolution with other methods. It was designed for the Avian Flu, and any infection of bovine or avian descent, which often are superbugs.

This formula has been created in response to the growing number of resistant infections that are plaguing the US today. Unfortunately, our food industry has created a situation where we are more vulnerable than ever. The majority of chicken, dairy and meat available today is created with extremely unhealthy processes that cause the need of widespread use of antibiotics. As a result, those who consume these products are susceptible to a new host of never before seen infections, one of them being the Avian or Bird Flu. Furthermore, by the consumption of these animal products, we are exposing ourselves to antibiotics that can lead to antibiotic resistance in the future. Therefore, Multi Immune has been created in order to be a natural answer to these new types of infections where conventional antibiotic use is deemed not only harmful, but also futile or ineffective.

Key Ingredient: IGY (immunoglobulin) from whole egg concentrate. Other Key Ingredients:

1. Colostrum

2. Nucleotides

3. Olive Leaf *Off Label-Dosage: I personally recommend starting with 6 capsules daily, but even moving up 12 capsules daily if needed.

Cost: $21.95 for 60 capsules

“We Japanese drink green tea every day, and I think that this green tea cannot prevent every cancer, but it is the cheapest and most practical method of cancer prevention available to the general public.”

-Dr. Hirota Fujiki

History:  Chinese Emperor Shen Nung is credited with introducing green tea to the masses in 2737BC, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has recommended green teaconsumption for good health since 1100BC.  In 1191, a Japanese priest named Esai took some C. sinensis seeds to Japan for medicinal purposes, later writing a book entitled “Maintaining Health by Drinking Green Tea.”

Varieties:  All teas originate from the C. sinensis plant. Harvest season, environmental conditions, plant age, processing, and storage are some of the factors that influence the wide variety of products available today.  Black tea is the most oxidized, followed by oolong, green, and lastly, white.

Scientific Research:  Green tea represents a perfect example of how science has come full circle, to support the medicinal wisdom of ancient folk tradition.

Studies supporting the health benefits of tea are abundant:

• Anti-carcinogenic

• Anti-thrombotic (thins the blood)

• Cardio-protective

• Anti-hypertensive (selectively lowers elevated blood pressure, without having an effect on normal blood pressure levels)

• Lowers blood cholesterol

• A 2013 lab study [1] shows great promise in the area of Alzheimer’s research, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases.  The EGCG component of green tea was shown to prevent the formation of beta-amyloid plaques associated with the disease, and to break up existing metal-containing aggregate structures that are known to cause misfolding of these proteins.  Further research is being conducted in this area.

• Weight loss

How much do I need?

Research [2] shows that three to four 8 oz. cups of green tea per day is the ‘sweet spot’ for cancer prevention and heart disease.  According to research [[3]], one cup of green tea is equivalent to about 20-35mg of EGCG.

Black, green, or white?

White tea is the least processed, and has a milder flavor compared to green and black teas. One study [4] compared Exotica China white tea with Premium green tea brewed for 1-5 minutes, and found that Exotica white outperformed Premium green for its anti-cancer properties.   If you prefer to stick with green tea, consider sencha or matcha which have been shown to contain larger concentrations of active polyphenols.

Green and black teas contain L-theanine, which has been shown to help calm an anxious mind.  It also selectively lowers elevated blood pressure, while having no effect on normal blood pressure levels.   Green tea has also been studied [5] as an effective weight loss tool; helping to suppress appetite, and increase metabolism.  Both green and black teas have the potential to prevent cavities. Darker teas are also higher in theaflavins which have been shown to help lower blood cholesterol.

Lighter teas are higher in immune modulating catechins, while darker teas are richer in mood-enhancing, heart protective compounds:

Can I take a supplement?

I recommend experimenting with a variety of organic green and white tea varieties before resorting to a supplement.  Try as we might to isolate what we consider to be “only the good parts” of a plant in a lab, nature is wiser still.  Studies [6] confirm that the constituents in the whole plant work synergistically to optimize its beneficial effects.  You’ll also save a lot of money this way!

Click here to hear my enlightening interview with Art of Tea’s Steve Schwartz, and consider making their 8-Minute Digital Detox Challenge a part of your daily ‘me time’ teatime ritual!

How can I avoid the concentrated amounts of aluminum and fluoride that have been making their way into tea leaves?

• Choose a certified organic white or green tea.  Research has shown [7] that aged (darker) leaves are more likely to accumulate contaminants.

• Know the provenance of your tea:

• Organic teas from China- choose high mountain regions

• Look for the Certified Organic seal (Oregon Tilth is one of the best certifications you can get):

Some of of my organic favorites include: Davidson’s Organic Teas, Art of Tea, Mitoku Macrobiotic, St. Dalfour, Starwest Botanicals, Eden Foods.

• Avoid taking your tea with lemon, or foods rich in Vitamin C, which binds heavy metals.

All written contents are copyright 2014 by Vivian Kanchian [http://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/], [https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian], [https://www.facebook.com/20fourcarrots], Certified Alternative Nutrition Expert. No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements. Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

REFERENCES:

1- http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130305145137.htm

2- http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130305145137.htm

3- http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/07/24/green-tea-protects-against-heart-disease.aspx

4- http://www.puriku.com/download/Potent antimutagenic activity of white tea in comparison with green tea in the Salmonella assay.pdf

5- http://www.encognitive.com/files/Medicinal%20Benefits%20of%20Green%20Tea:%20Part%20I.%20Review%20of%20Noncancer%20Health%20Benefits.pdf

6- http://www.encognitive.com/files/Medicinal%20Benefits%20of%20Green%20Tea:%20Part%20I.%20Review%20of%20Noncancer%20Health%20Benefits.pdf

7- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12867178

8- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21115335

9- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3371013/

While working on the floor of our vitamin department, I am often asked what brands we currently sell that are kosher.
Vitamins can contain various ingredients that are problematic in terms of their kosherness. Furthermore, varying religious authorities often hold very different opinions about whether or not vitamins even need to be kosher at all. Some of the more lenient rulings consider vitamins to be medicine, and therefore are not required to carry a hechsher (Kosher certification). Some Rabbincal authorities have argued that if a vitamin is swallowed and not eaten, it is permissible. Others have said that the vitamin should be thrown to the back of the throat and then swallowed. Others say that if ingesting a chewable vitamin it should have a hechsher.

Religious authorities have stated that a person whose life is in danger or who has health problems that have been attributed to vitamin deficiencies, or pregnant and nursing women who have been advised to take vitamins, may also take non-Kosher vitamins if an equally effective kosher vitamin is not readily available. Otherwise, someone who is in good health and takes vitamins as supplements or for prevention purposes should preferably take vitamins that have a reliable hechsher.

If a vitamin or supplement does not have a hechsher, and you are trying to determine if it is kosher, look for items that are certified vegan and vegetarian instead. While we strive to offer several brands of kosher vitamins here at Erewhon Natural Foods Market, like Bluebonnet, Flora, Megafoods, Country Life, Solgar and many others, if we cannot find you a certified kosher vitamin then we can offer you a vegan substitute instead.

Remember though that though a vitamin may have only kosher substances in it, many are not suitable for Passover, as they contain products derived from grains. When in doubt, if you are concerned and wish to only consume kosher vitamins and supplements, always buy those vitamins that have a certified hechsher.

Additional Questions and Answers About Kosher Vitamins

How Do I know Which Vitamins Are Kosher?

There are various different Orthodox Jewish communities that act to oversee how products are made to insure that they contain nothing that would be deemed not kosher.

If a bottle contains a hechsher (Rabbinic Kosher stamp of approval) on its label then it has been granted kosher approval by the governing body that grants the hechsher.

What is a Hechsher?

A hechsher is a symbol you can find on products such as food, vitamins, and wine that tells you that the product has been inspected and found to be kosher by a religious governing body. Once a hechsher has been granted, the food or supplement is considered permissible for consumption.

Who Grants Hechshers?

Various different Orthodox Jewish communities have governing bodies that oversee the granting of hechshers. And on many nutritional supplement labels, you can find various types. The most widely recognized hechsher in the United States is the hechsher of the Orthodox Union based in New York City. Additional hechshers have been granted by Star-K of Baltimore Maryland. KOF-K is an internationally recognized hechsher that has regional coordinators in major cities through out the world. The New Square Kashrus Council, meanwhile, is based in New York. For more information about the types of hechshers and who grants them, we recommend people check out the web site http://www.hechshers.info/

Why Do Vitamins and Supplements need a Hechsher?

Vitamins can require hechshers because many of the products that might be contained in vitamin tablets and capsules are not kosher. These include gelatin made from unkosher animals, enzymes made from unkosher animals, fat soluble vitamins, and glandulars from animals as well as products made in factories that also process unkosher food and supplements. The manufacturing of vitamins can be a problem because many vitamins come from unkosher animal sources.

Do All Vitamins Require a Hechsher?

The problem with vitamins is that some actually do contain non-kosher products. Aside from gelatin, some vitamins are attained from non-kosher animal sources. Examples of this would be Vitamin A, that is advertised as “Natural” or “Retinol” and has been acquired from animal liver, or vitamin E that may be derived from animal fat. Vitamin C can be a problem during Passover; because the process of making synthetic vitamin C requires a substance called sorbitol that is a corn derivative.

I Heard Somewhere That Vitamin D is not kosher; is this true?

Vitamin D is produced naturally on the surface of the skin by sitting in the sun. This happens because the substance 7-dehydrocholesterol is irradiated by exposure to sunlight’s UV-B rays converting it to cholecalciferol, more commonly known as vitamin D3. However, because most people spend much of their time indoors, and use sunscreen to protect themselves from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays, many people have become seriously deficient in D vitamins. Thus supplementation with vitamin D is often necessary. In fact, I would say, speaking as a doctor, that this is one of the most important vitamins for us to supplement.

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the form of vitamin D preferred most; it is the type best utilized by the body. It can also be made synthetically from lanolin, a by-product of sheep’s wool, that is acquired when the wool is processed. Since lanolin is excreted by a live animal, and was mistakenly thought to be animal fat, some rabbinic authorities recommended avoiding it. This is because it is forbidden by Jewish law to consume the flesh of a live animal. However, in recent years it has been ruled that since vitamin D is actually an excretion of the skin, it is therefore permissible. There are now several vitamin lines that carry vitamin D3 and have been granted a hechsher. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is less easily utilized by the body, and is derived from mushrooms and so is considered a vegan supplement.

What about Digestive Enzymes?

Some digestive enzymes are acquired from animal tissue. They are not kosher. However, if they are plant derived then this problem can be avoided and there are many plant-based enzyme products on the market that have hechshers. Currently, we sell Enzymatica brand Digestive enzymes; they are certified kosher.

I hear that Glucosamine and Chondrotian Are Good For the Joints, But They Are Made From Shellfish. What Can I take Instead?

I have, as of yet, not found a vegan source for Chondroitan, it is normally produced from the shells of shrimp. There is far less evidence of the benefits of Chondroitan then Glucosamine, and the good news is that there are several sources of vegan Glucosamine sulfate. Clinical research on the health benefits of Glucosamine sulfate reveal that it has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of joint pain at doses of 1000mg-3000mg a day.
If you have any more questions about kosher supplements you can speak to me, Dr. Whimsy, the in-house naturopathic doctor, or any of our qualified staff to find out more.

Works Cited

http://www.thejc.com/lifestyle/food/27050/a-bitter-pill-beware-treif-vitamins

http://www.hechshers.info/

http://www.jemsem.org/posek/5760-1nissan.htm

http://www.kashrut.com/articles/med/

Why choose Erewhon Brand of Supplements?

Erewhon understands that it is often difficult to decide which products and supplement brand can best help you achieve optimal health.  You rely upon Erewhon staff experience and high standards here at Erewhon Calabasas to help guide you.  After an extensive search, we choose a manufacturer making products we are proud to sell and promote.  They use the world’s best ingredients, produce innovative formulas and manufacture the Erewhon Brand with strict quality controls.  They do all this at affordable prices and a great value to you.

The World’s Most-Trusted Ingredients

The choice of ingredients in one of the most critical parts of making dietary supplements.  Fortunately, the Erewhon manufacturer has developed alliances with the world’s leading ingredient manufacturers.  Unlike most ingredient suppliers, these companies perform research to ensure the effectiveness of their ingredients.  And over 50 of these ingredients are protected by U.S. patents and trademarks.  Some of the most advanced ingredients include: Innovation Labs PureWay-C®, InterHealth ChromeMate® and OptiZinc®, Bergstrom OptiMSM®, and Kemin FloraGlo® Lutein.

In addition, Erewhon manufacturer has strong commitment to European herbal extracts because they are regulated more strictly and European manufacturers are required to use very sophisticated scientific methods and technology.

Highly Innovative Science-Based Products

Erewhon products stand out from the crowd because the development process is driven by innovation.   In many cases, Erewhon is the first brand to introduce a new emerging product.  Erewhon was among the first to introduce: Shelf Stable Probiotics, PureWay-C®, Enteric-Coated Omega-3s, CoQ10 in softgel, Vitamin K2, Vegetarian DHA, and many others.  Their development team continually searches for the latest discoveries and uses the information to carefully choose the right amount of each ingredient.

This has a significant advantage over competitors who use inadequate amounts to save money, which ultimately leads to an ineffective product and dissatisfaction.  Erewhon philosophy delivers the health benefits you expect.

Erewhon is GMP Certified

Erewhon manufacturer has been GMP Certified by NSF International and the National Product Association (NPA) and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) throughout their entire company.

As part of GMPs, they use Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as step-by-step directions for conducting all manufacturing, including: R&D, product formulations, raw material testing, tablet and capsule manufacturing, packaging and even order processing and shipping.

Erewhon Products Are Laboratory Tested

Before the start of the manufacturing process, Erewhon raw materials undergo several lab tests to guarantee that we start with high quality materials.  Then, at the end, Erewhon finished products are tested by independent FDA inspected labs.  These tests evaluate the identity and potency of each product through: High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography (GC), Spectrophotometric Analysis, Atomic Absorption and Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP).

Erewhon products are also tested for Disintegration to ensure that the products will dissolve properly in the body.

Erewhon Productsare Built on Transparency

Erewhon have a strong commitment to transparency.  Erewhon reveals the sources of their ingredients in a way that is simply not matched by other brands.  The source of the many ingredients is disclosed right on the label, and in Erewhon product literature.  We believe this kind of openness is critical for building and maintaining your trust.

We take pride in featuring Erewhon products that contain the most trusted ingredients in the world.  Erewhon products are highly innovative and scientifically formulated.  They are also made under GMPs and are independently lab tested.  We pride ourselves on their transparency and openness.  Many companies do not make all these commitments.  For these and other important reasons, we believe that the Erewhon brand of supplements has few rivals in the marketplace.

Made with an Eye on the Environment

Erewhon manufacturer is finding important ways to help protect the environment.  Among other steps, they have implemented a comprehensive energy efficiency and conservation program, utilizing a commercial recycling program, and using biodegradable packing materials.

These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Product # 656:  35 Billion Probiotic                                               Product Information

Background:

In addition to serving as a delivery system for the absorption of nutrients and the elimination of waste material, the intestinal tract also plays important roles in maintaining healthy immunity and providing resistance to pathogens.  The GI tract is populated by billions of cells of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) which help us digest and absorb our food, maintain a healthy intestinal pH (acid content), protect us from pathogenic bacteria, and provide an environment conducive to the continued health of the intestinal tract.*  This formula offers a very high potency of powerful probiotics that can effectively intervene in acute gastrointestinal and immune conditions and or help support long-term intestinal health.*

Features:

• 8 probiotic strains from Danisco, a world leader in probiotic research and manufacturing.
• Very high potency at 35 billion viable cells per capsule.
• Bioenhanced Acid Resistant Strains (BEARS) ensures survivability in both low (acid) and high (alkaline) pH environments.
• The BEARS strains in this formula are designed to withstand the acid conditions present in the stomach during digestion without the need for an enteric coating.
• Danisco selects strains that have been cultivated under harsh conditions, and have developed the ability to adapt to extreme changes in environment (“survival of the fittest”) i.e. pH, temperature.
• Probiotic strains are manufactured using a patented poly matrix preservation system, to preserve and ensure stability without the need for refrigeration.
• The prebiotic blend consists of FOS (food source for probiotics), and FiberAid® arabinogalactans (patented prebiotic from Lonza® that helps support the growth of probiotics).

Benefits:

• The 8 strains used in this formula have been studied for their ability to support gastrointestinal and immune health.*

• High potency formula helps to quickly reestablish healthy levels of probiotics in the GI tract.*
• Once established, a normal, healthy intestinal microflora helps to create an environment that is unfavorable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria.*
• Helps stimulate the growth of probiotics which have been diminished by the use of antibiotics.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

35 Billion Probiotic

Clinical Applications

The strains in this formula have several clinical applications mostly related to gastrointestinal and immune support.

Inflammatory bowel disease- Conditions such as Crohn’s Disease and Colitis can be supported by a couple of the strains in this formula which help support the normal production of specific immune proteins which are involved in the inflammatory process.  This formula is well suited to help support a normal, healthy inflammatory response particularly in colitis.

Immune Support- pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses often have travel through our gastrointestinal tract.  More than ½ of our entire immune system resides in our gut as GALT (gut associated lymphoid tissue).  The probiotics in our 35 billion Probiotic formula help support normal, healthy immune function by 1)competing for adhesion to the lining of the gastrointestinal tract against pathogens thereby reducing their ability to “enter” the body and cause infection 2) compete with pathogens for nutrients reducing their ability to survive and 3) Support secretion of secretory antibodies along the lining of the GI tract preventing pathogens from adhering to and entering into intestinal cells and eventually the bloodstream 4)stimulate immune activity throughout the body, helping to maintain normal, healthy immune function.

Gastrointestinal Function-The probiotic strains in our 35 Billion Probiotic help support normal, healthy bowel function.  Whether an individual has constipation or diarrhea, this formula can help normalize bowel function, and if the diarrhea is caused by an infection this formula is especially helpful in helping to reduce infection and associated symptoms.

Colon Cancer-Studies on some of the strains of probiotics in this formula have been shown to help normalize growth and differentiation of cells that line the colon.  When fiber is fermented by the probiotics short-chain fatty acids (SCFA’s) such as propionate and butyrate are produced.  Specifically butyrate has been studied for its role in helping to support normal cell differentiation in colon cells.  Cancer cells are undifferentiated cells (cells with no specific function) that multiply to form tumors.  Keeping the colon cells differentiated means that they grow and mature into fully functioning colon cells and perform all of their normal functions.

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea-This type of diarrhea will respond well to the 35 Billion Probiotic formula.  The strains in this formula help support the secretion of bacteriocins which help support the destruction of pathogenic bacteria, allowing for the growth of ‘friendly” bacteria; causes an environment conducive to normal bowel function.

Neutralizing production of nitrosamines-Nitrite is consumed in foods as sodium nitrite in cured meats such as cold cuts, sausages, bacon, hot dogs etc.  In the colon nitrites are converted into nitrosamines which are known carcinogens.  The probiotics produce certain type of organic acids upon fermentation of fiber that help neutralize the effects of nitrosamines on the cells of the colon.

These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Product # 898: Blood Pressure Support                                                         Product Information

Background:

In order to remain in good health our bodies must maintain a homeostatic balance of blood pressure within a general range.  When blood pressure is consistently above the normal range, there is an increased risk for chronic diseases associated with the cardiovascular system, brain, kidney and other important organs and tissues.  Risk factors include poor diet (high intake of sodium and fat) genetics and lack of exercise.  The average American lifestyle has lead to millions of Americans having elevated blood pressure, and an increased incidence of chronic diseases associated with high blood pressure.  Blood Pressure Support supplies potent nutrients and herbs to help maintain normal, healthy blood pressure.*

Features:

• Features a very high potency (600 mg) of European Hawthorn berry extract which is the most clinically-tested hawthorn in the world.
• Offers a high potency (600 mg) of magnesium.
• 300 mg of taurine
• Features Forslean® brand coleus forskohlii extract made by Sabinsa Corporation.  Forslean® is the only coleus forskohlii supported by a U.S. patent.

Benefits:

• Magnesium is critical for the relaxation of the smooth muscle that makes up the structure of blood vessels.  It is also important for maintaining a healthy balance of sodium and potassium.  Both of these functions help support normal, healthy blood pressure.*
• Clinical studies show that hawthorn has a powerful affect on the maintenance of normal, healthy blood pressure, by helping to relax blood vessels.*
• The active ingredient in Coleus forskohlii, forskolin, increases cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) which is important for supporting healthy blood pressure and the overall efficiency of heart function.*
• Studies show taurine is important for normal, healthy blood pressure, heart muscle contraction and helping to maintain overall heart function.*
• Hops has a calming affect on the central nervous system which helps support normal, healthy blood pressure, particularly during times of physical and mental stress.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Product # 640: Women’s Probiotic Formula 50 Billion               Product Information

Background:

Women have specific needs when it comes to protecting the health of their bodies; particularly when it relates to maintaining healthy genitourinary organs. The health and integrity of the vagina, urethra and bowel are all heavily dependent on the microflora which inhabits them. Lactobacilli bacteria, for example, are most abundant in the vagina and they provide a defense against the overgrowth of bad bacteria that can arise from the use of antibiotics, stress, excess sugar in the diet and other lifestyle factors. Therefore, ensuring a positive balance of these beneficial bacteria is of the utmost importance. Our Women’s Probiotic Formula is combination of proprietary Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium blends that provide 50 Billion live cultures per capsule. Together these species of probiotic bacteria have been shown to support a healthy bacterial balance in the vagina and urethra.*

Features:

• Strains used in the proprietary blends are exclusively from Danisco, a world leader in probiotic research and manufacturing.

• Very high potency at 50 billion viable cells per vegetarian capsule.

• Bioenhanced Acid Resistant Strains (BEARS) ensures survivability in both low (acid) and high (alkaline) pH environments.

• The BEARS strains in this formula are designed to withstand the acid conditions present in the stomach during digestion without the need for enteric coating.

• Danisco selects strains that have been cultivated under harsh conditions, and have developed the ability to adapt to extreme changes in environment (“survival of the fittest”) i.e. pH, temperature.

• The prebiotic blend consists of FructoOligoSaccharides (FOS) and FiberAid® arabinogalactans, a patented prebiotic from Lonza®. Together they support the growth of probiotics to sustain a healthy balance of microflora

Benefits:

• The proprietary Lactobacilli blend supports a healthy vaginal ecosystem through the production of antimicrobial substances.*

• High potency formula helps to quickly replenish healthy levels of probiotics in the vaginal and urinary tracts.*

• A normal healthy intestinal microflora, once established, helps to create an environment that is unfavorable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria.*

• Helps promote the growth of probiotics which have been diminished by the used of antibiotics.*

These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Product # 659: Suprema Dophilus                                                        Product Information

Background:

In addition to serving as a delivery system for the absorption of nutrients and the elimination of waste material, the intestinal tract also plays important roles in maintaining healthy immunity and providing resistance to pathogens.  The GI tract is populated by billions of cells of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) which help us digest and absorb our food, maintain a healthy intestinal pH (acid content), protect us from pathogenic bacteria, and provide an environment conducive to the continued health of the intestinal tract.*  This formula offers a very high potency of powerful probiotics that can effectively intervene in acute gastrointestinal and immune conditions and or help support long-term intestinal health.*

Features:

• 8 probiotic strains from Danisco, a world leader in probiotic research and manufacturing.
• High potency at 5 billion viable cells per capsule, guaranteed to expiration date.
• Bioenhanced Acid Resistant Strains (BEARS) ensures survivability in both low (acid) and high (alkaline) pH environments.
• The BEARS strains in this formula are designed to withstand the acid conditions present in the stomach during digestion without the need for an enteric coating.
• Danisco selects strains that have been cultivated under harsh conditions, and have developed the ability to adapt to extreme changes in environment (“survival of the fittest”) i.e. pH, temperature.
• Probiotic strains are manufactured using a patented poly matrix preservation system, to preserve and ensure stability without the need for refrigeration.
• The prebiotic blend consists of FOS (food source for probiotics), and FiberAid® arabinogalactans (patented prebiotic from Lonza® that helps support the growth of probiotics).

Benefits:

• The 8 strains used in this formula have been studied for their ability to support gastrointestinal and immune health.*

• High potency formula helps to quickly reestablish healthy levels of probiotics in the GI tract.*
• Once established, a normal, healthy intestinal microflora helps to create an environment that is unfavorable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria.*
• Helps stimulate the growth of probiotics which have been diminished by the use of antibiotics.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by The Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Written by Vivian Kanchian- Holistic Nutrition Expert- for https://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/

Special thanks to Dr. Jay Lokhande (MD Botanical Medicine, MBA Biotechnology) for his kind collaboration.

Shilajit (SJ), a Sanskrit word meaning “Conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness” is a mineral-dense substance that has a long history of use (3,000+ years) in Ayurvedic medicine.  The ancient Ayurvedic text, Charaka Samhitā, refers to an anti aging substance (rasayana) named Çilájatu, that “cures all distempers of the body”.   There are 15 versions available in India, each believed to have different healing properties based on where they were harvested, and whether they were collected by sunlight (more suitable to conditions like diabetes) or moonlight (better for conditions like ulcerative colitis). 

Other names:  Silajit, Silaras, Mineral pitch, Mumiyo, Asphalt(um), Jew’s pitch, Mineral wax, Ozokerite.

SJ is typically found in steep mountainous regions (3000-15000 feet) from Nepal to Kashmir.  Generated from fossilized plant materials, authentic SJ is found oozing out from between layers of rock usually during the months of June through September; during which it is painstakingly scraped away and purified in small batches for consumption.  The purified version pictured below may look a lot like petroleum, though it has been aged differently by nature to produce a medicinal substance that acts very differently to petroleum.   One notable difference is that SJ, unlike petroleum, easily dissolves into water.

Shilajit contains over 84 minerals in highly absorbable ionic form.  Its main constituent, fulvic acid, helps to carry and deliver these and other nutrients directly into the cells.  Per Dr. Lokhande, SJ possesses the unique ability to selectively enhance the bioavailability of only life-giving substances.  In other words, SJ will not increase your absorption of toxins.  In fact, it is an excellent detoxifier.

Correct Administration: 

Always take away from food (a minimum of 1 hour before a meal, 2 hours after), except for a teaspoonful of the ‘carrier vehicle’ recommended for your dosha/constitution below:

Dosage:

A-    Maintenance (general): 110mg

B-    Condition-specific (systemic): Begin with rice sized amount, then increase to individual needs

-        For adrenal fatigue, take it at bedtime to help body achieve peak levels of corticosteroids by morning.  In a healthy person, these levels naturally peak at 4am, which in Ayurveda is considered the ideal time to wake up/ start the day.

-        3 dominant constitutions/ doshas-  vata: black sesame, pitta: ghee, kapha/ water+earth=mud elements: honey). On empty stomach.

Safety:  Because authentic, high grade SJ is so labor intensive to harvest, there is a lot of counterfeit and diluted product on the market.  For this reason, it is important to seek out reputable sources.  Authentic, properly purified SJ is extremely safe.  To my knowledge, Lotus Blooming Herbs (LBH)* is the only purveyor of its kind that follows strict quality assurance guidelines to ensure a pure product.  For LBH owner Johann Helf, this has been a true labor of love—taking him nearly seven years (and lots of blood, sweat and altitude sickness) to locate what is considered by the locals this “blessing from the deities”.  LBH work closely with a single family that have been hand collecting and purifying premium SJ for nearly 5 centuries.  Rigorous laboratory reports are available at http://www.authenticshilajit.com/pure-shilajit-resources.html to indicate that the product is free from any harmful contaminants.  

 *  I am not a paid sponsor for this company.

Note: SJ is contraindicated in those with a high uric acid count, and anyone with phenylketonuria (PKU).

All written contents are copyright 2015 by Vivian Kanchian, Holistic Nutrition Expert.

[http://20fourcarrots.wordpress.com/], [https://twitter.com/VivianKanchian], [https://www.facebook.com/20fourcarrots].

No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements. Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

REFERENCES

1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16698205
2. http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/75234482/vitro-antioxidant-anti-arthritic-activities-shilajit
3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3296184/
4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4001039/
5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2650748/
6. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2650030606/abstract
7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20532096
8. http://www.ijp-online.com/article.asp?issn=0253-7613;year=1992;volume=24;issue=1;spage=12;epage=17;aulast=Jaiswal;type=0
9. http://www.annexpublishers.com/full-text/JVSAH/302/Anti-inflammatory-and-anti-arthritic-efficacy-and-safety-of-purified-shilajit-in-moderately-arthritic-dogs.php
10. http://ijbms.mums.ac.ir/?_action=articleInfo&article=1125
11. http://rudramani.com/research/shilajit-a-panacea-for-cancer.pdf
12. http://www.ijp-online.com/article.asp?issn=0253-7613;year=2004;volume=36;issue=6;spage=373;epage=376;aulast=Trivedi
13. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2650090113/abstract
14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23733436
15. http://www.ijdddonline.com/issues/879_full.pdf
16. http://altermed.com.ua/pdf/shilajit-a-panacea-for-cancer.pdf
17. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2650090703/abstract
18. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4075718/

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.857/abstract

March 2015

By Rachael Keener, Urban Moonshine Herbal Writer

Spring is in the air. We measure it by the uptake in birdsong, the increase in daylight, crocuses bursting in the garden and Spring ephemerals blooming in the woods. We can also feel it in ourselves; excited by possibility and inspired by life awakening all around us. The world is abuzz with Spring cleaning; ridding of the old to make way for the new. This preparation for renewal applies to our bodies as well. After a long winter of heavy foods, festive libations, and a more sedentary lifestyle our bodies and their hardworking organs could use some tuning and cleaning. One of the very best ways to approach Spring cleansing is with the digestive and liver support of bitters. Bitters enhance the body’s metabolic functions and bring sluggish digestion back on track.

Bitter taste receptors act as a super-highway of signaling to the rest of the digestive tract. When activated, they release important metabolic and digestive secretions including bile, HCL, and enzymes. These secretions, and by extension bitters themselves, ensure efficient breakdown and removal of food and of our body’s waste products. As you can see, tasting bitterness primes our bodies for digestion but also acts as a detoxification cue to the liver- signaling that it’s time to get to work removing clutter.

Historically our diets included a steady flow of bitter tasting plants. Now bitterness has been bred out of our fruits and veggies, and more of our food comes from factories than farms. As processed food prevails, our diets have become resoundingly deficient in this vital taste. This is why in modern times, bitters formulas act as a cornerstone to good health. The liquid extract is derived from powerful bitter plants used by herbalists for centuries. The blend is best taken regularly: before meals in most cases, but a few drops on the tongue after eating can also help in cases of heartburn.

Bitters are integral in waking up your metabolism for Spring cleansing and liver detox, though don’t forget them as a year-round tonic. Research supports their use in maintaining blood sugar balance, easing nausea, gas and bloating, and curbing cravings.

Cheers to Spring renewal!

Rachael Keener, Clinical Herbalist- Based out of Vermont, Rachael is a clinician, writer and community educator whose work is deeply rooted in both the art and science of herbalism.


Learn more at: www.urbanmoonshine.com

by Charis Nawrocki, Erewhon Nutrition Supervisor

In order to provide our customers with more resources, we had one of our nutrition supervisors give a first-hand account of her Metagenics ‘Clear Change’ Detoxification. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Erewhon Company. We welcome our customers to come in and speak to our own naturopathic doctor, Dr. Whimsy Anderson, for more information. 

Just when I thought I was taking such great care of myself and feeling terrific enough already, the universe brought me a beautiful, healthful surprise – well actually, it was our Metagenics Rep Robin Wilson! The surprise was the Metagenics ‘Clear Change Detoxification Program’.

As an assistant supervisor of Nutrition here at Erewhon Natural Market, a wellness consultant/owner of MY 2 SENSE, and ex 3-time National Athlete, I thoroughly enjoy working with and helping so many people daily with the incredible 7,000+ Natural, Organic, and Homeopathic health and beauty products we carry. I’m also privileged to be working alongside, and mentored by, our staff Naturopath – Dr. Whimsy Anderson. Because of her presence in our department we are able to carry and offer some superior professional lines, Metagenics being one of them…

My experience with the Metagenics ‘Clear Change Detoxification Program’ was extremely satisfying and quite interesting day by day. I found that the ‘food choices’ portion of this 10-day program was easy for me, since I eat similarly to their detox guidelines. What threw me a bit were specific discomforts and changes inside my body as the program unfolded, just like the handbook describes may occur. For example:

-Day 1 was a bit tired and draggy without the caffeine

-Day 2 and 3 I did feel some of the mild muscle cramping and bit of heaviness inside my abdomen

-Day 5 through 8 did feel a bit dizzy if I over exerted myself physically

I didn’t imagine that I might experience any of them considering my health and physical condition, but it made me realize that in fact I was indeed just as good a candidate for this program, even with such ‘clean’ living and eating…What I also realized was that I absolutely had some truth to face, refreshing to do, and reconsiderations to make with regards to certain chemicals I’ve ingested over my 50 years of life that taxed my liver and adrenals – caffeine intake, artificial coffee creamers, alcohol, incense smoke inhalation, ibuprofen, Benadryl. The truth came out through my body’s response and it was quite an ‘Ah-ha’ moment. This was truly not clean living and eating, and long overdue for me. Totally grateful for this awakening!

Here’s the best part about my entire experience with Metagenics “Clear Change’ Detoxification Program: I FEEL REJUVENATED AND SUPER-CHARGED! I cannot get over how much MORE energy and mental clarity I have (starting Day 4 – to now)! I slept so soundly throughout and still do, I woke up fresh and alert and remained that way all day. I really feel the nourishing goods going through my body now like a virtual magnifying glass inside of me! Even Dr. Whimsy noticed my skin softer, my eyes whiter and brighter, my vibe even more upbeat than before! I’m glowing and euphoric squared! Way more than I was before this cleanse! (If you’ve met me in the store you know I’m like the energizer bunny most of the time!)

I’m aware that many tend to lose weight during/after this cleanse due to the caloric restrictions and the super hydration of it, even though that’s not what it’s for. Though I did lose about half an inch all over, this cleanse for me was more about chemicals and cortisol flushed than calories dropped. Quite an eye-opener for me –now that I’m reset I’m making even cleaner choices. I feel fabulous – not a drop of coffee or any chemical mentioned, or desire for it since! Sincere gratitude for the Metagenics team and the ‘Clear Change Detoxification Program’.

…and that’s MY 2 SENSE!

Charis Nawrocki
Nutrition Supervisor – Los Angeles

No reuse or re-publication without permission. Please note that the information provided on this site is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained herein is intended to treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure any illness or medical condition. Consult a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen or before taking vitamins or supplements.

Statements on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Crosby’s GingerSpice Colostrum Ice Cream is the newest superfood addition at the Erewhon Tonic Bar, and if your a fan of guilt-free dessert with a touch of ginger then its time to get excited! Crosby’s ice cream has the perfect balance of protein, good fats, fiber, and a metabolic kickstart to enhance your digestion while eating this icy concoction.

Who is Crosby Tailor?

Since moving to Los Angeles 6 years ago, Crosby Tailor has been a daily customer of Erewhon. Eventually he was employed behind the Tonic Bar where he perfected his vitamix ice cream making craft. After Erewhon, Crosby started consulting on nutrition, health, and wellness while developing a clientele basis of high profile celebs and health enthusiasts. Crosby works with some of the leading experts in health, including being an ambassador for Dave Asprey and his brand Bulletproof.

Crosby has become an ambassador for several other health brands due to his knowledge and social media outreach, but now most of his time goes into his own company that he created called Cookie Genius – “Eat Dessert Burn Fat.” He has created a line of sugar-free, gluten-free, and grain-free, fat -burning, metabolism boosting, brain-charging desserts. These range from baked goods like cookies, cupcakes, donuts, and pancakes to ice creams and chocolates.

With everything Crosby has going on in the health community, we were excited to team up and create something for our customers at the Tonic Bar that had Crosby’s spin on it. Collaborating with our store manager, we let him throw together an ice cream that not only tastes amazing, but has health benefits through the roof!

Health Benefits

Here are some of the ingredients and the benefits behind having them woven into this superfood ice cream:

• Colostrum- Build, repair, strengthen, restore:
  • the hormonal system back to levels associated with youth #antiaging
  • the immune system to its top fighting form #thymusenhancement
  • the digestive system to its optimal function #guthealth #gutflora
  • provides the body with every basic nutrient known #superfood
  • very anabolic- IGF1 for lean muscles preserving, fat burning effects

• Prebiotics- Chicory root from Body Ecology EcoBloom
  • enhance immune system
  • food to feed good bacteria in your gut
  • fight constipation
  • relieve stress
  • improve liver function

• Cold Pressed Ginger
  • anti-inflammatory
  • digestive enhancement/kickstart
  • aphrodisiac

• Astragalus
  • boosts immune system
  • warming tonic which helps to balance the coldness of the ice cream for optimal digestion
  • strengthens the spleen to counteract any negative effects the coldness or sweetness of the ice cream has on the spleen

• MCT OIL- Bulletproof XCT oil
  • fast converting energy for the brain and cells
  • thermogenic-enhances fat burning effects
  • candida killing-full of caprylic acid to fight overgrowth of bad bacteria

So I can eat Ice Cream AND Burn Fat?

Crosby’s GingerSpice Colostrum Ice Cream is a guiltless powerhouse that will satisfy your sweet lovin‘ tastebuds. The best part is that not only are people saying its delicious, but they are walking away saying how good they feel too.

Next time you stop by Erewhon Market, drop on by the Tonic Bar to see what all the excitement is about!

Crosby Tailor is currently in the process of scaling his cookies out to be able to supply the local grassroot health stores, Erewhon being one of the first. As well as developing a recipe book, Crosby is creating a dry mix so that his global fan base can create his delectable bites at home.

To keep an eye out for more Crosby Tailor inventions, follow him on Instagram: @crosbytailor

To order Crosby’s cookies check out his website www.eatdessertburnfat.com.