Buckwheat protein shows potential for cholesterol reduction

Proteins from tartary buckwheat and common buckwheat helped reduce cholesterol levels in rats on a high cholesterol diet by at least 25 per cent, report Japanese researchers. If the results can be reproduced in humans, the proteins may offer an alternative for functional food formulators and dietary supplements to tap into the burgeoning cholesterol reduction market, currently dominated by phytosterols and stanols. The research, published in the Journal of Food Science, reports that supplementation of a high cholesterol diet with protein from common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn) reduced serum cholesterol levels in rats by 32 and 25 per cent, respectively. In a second experiment, the researchers looked at the effect of the proteins to reduce the formation of gallstones (lithogenesis), measured by the lithogenic index.

Supplementation with common (BWP) and tartary buckwheat (TBP) led to reductions of the lithogenic index of 62 and 43 per cent, respectively. "Taken together, these results suggest a potential source of TBP as a functional food ingredient as well as BWP," wrote the authors. High cholesterol levels, hypercholesterolaemia, have a long association with many diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease (CVD), the cause of almost 50 per cent of deaths in Europe, and reported to cost the EU economy an estimated €169bn ($202bn) per year. Analysis of the chemical composition of TBP was found to be 45.8 per cent protein, 7.8 per cent lipids, and 2.7 per cent dietary fibre, while BWP was composed of 65.8 per cent protein, 22.0 per cent lipids, and 7.0 per cent dietary fibre. TBP was also found to contain more rutin and quercetin than BWP, with 5.3 and 4.4 mg of rutin per 100 grams, respectively, and 1710 and 5.4 mg of quercetin per 100 grams, respectively.

Standard Process has a source of Buckwheat! Cyruta (Cholesterol Metabolism) #3250 90T Each tablet supplies 250 mg Buckwheat Leaf Juice and Seed and 85 mg Inositol.

Ingredients: Honey, bovine adrenal cytosol extract, ascorbic acid, oat flour, and calcium stearate. Cholesterol metabolism and reduction.

Dose: 1 Tab/meal increasing weekly to a maximum dose of 3 Tab/Meal.

NOTE: A-F Betafood should be used with Cyruta to help remove fats through the biliary system. (Take with full glass of water)

Commentary: Buckwheat is an anti-scurvy staple that goes back to ancient Mesopotamia. It was the staple of the American pioneer. It has been largely forgotten in the modern diet and with it the strong vitamin P group of anti-capillary fragility factors from the vitamin C complex. Cyruta and Cyruta-Plus are both made from the green buckwheat plant. This is very high in the naturally occurring P factors for the person with pink toothbrush (bleeding gums) or who bruises easily. Cyruta is made from the seeds as well as the leaves of the plant. This contains inositol and the calcium and cholesterol metabolizing factors, as well as the naturally occurring P factors.

Increase your Energy with these Three Things

Overview

Vitamin B6, zinc and magnesium all interact with each other in carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism and proper DNA synthesis. Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be stored in your body. Zinc is found mostly in your blood plasma and liver, while magnesium is stored in your bones and muscle.

Are vitamins and trace elements that support many enzymatic processes within the body. According to research, the nutrients all work together to provide synergistic results that would not be found when taking these nutrients separately.

FUNCTIONS

You body needs vitamin B6 for over 100 enzyme functions that are involved with metabolism and hormone formation. Vitamin B6 carries out protein synthesis of hemoglobin formation in your red blood cells, synthesis of white blood cells and developing neurotransmitters.

Zinc is involved with over 300 enzymatic functions; regulating protein synthesis and proper growth development. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, it is also a component of an antioxidant called superoxide dismutase, or SOD, which protects cells from free radical damage. Zinc also plays a role in storing and releasing insulin, moving vitamin A from the liver and keeping your blood pH in balance. Zinc is depleted during intense exercise, and deficiencies also tend to arise. In fact, in a study with 160 athletes, 23% of the males and 43% of the females had significantly low levels of zinc.

Magnesium is one of the more common nutritional deficiencies among healthy adults, especially women and the elderly. Deficiencies are also very common among weight trainers, due to increased loss of these nutrients during workouts.

Besides maintaining bone structures, magnesium works with potassium in conducting nerve impulses; metabolizing carbohydrates, fats and proteins; and DNA and RNA synthesis. Magnesium is involve in 300 enzymes. It also regulates blood calcium balance and helps vitamin D absorb calcium and phosphorous into your bones. Magnesium ensures our muscle tissues get sufficient amounts of oxygen. When there is a magnesium deficiency, muscles are depleted of oxygen therefore muscles exhaust more easily. Magnesium on its own aids strength, endurance, and relaxation and is necessary to support the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins.

Dosage

For adult male athletes, scientific studies support taking 20-30 mg of zinc liver chelate and 450 mg of magnesium lactae daily as well as 50-100 mg of B6-niacinaminde per day. According to researchers, both female and teenage male athletes need half that amount daily (10 to 15 mg of zinc and 225 mg of magnesium) taken in 2 divided dosages. It is recommended to be taken 30 minutes before a workout and again about 30 minutes prior to bedtime, preferably on an empty stomach.

The Ratio Between Index and Ring Finger

The ratio between index and ring finger is believed to be linked to exposure to the male hormone testosterone in the womb. On average, men tend to have longer ring fingers and women longer index fingers. The higher the testosterone, the greater the length of the ring finger and the more "masculine" the resulting child – whether male or female.

Why Men's Ring Fingers Are Longer Than Their Index Fingers: Male-Female Ring Finger Proportions Tied to Sex Hormones in Embryo

ScienceDaily (Sep. 6, 2011) — Biologists at the University of Florida have found a reason why men's ring fingers are generally longer than their index fingers -- and why the reverse usually holds true for women.

The finding could help medical professionals understand the origin of behavior and disease, which may be useful for customizing treatments or assessing risks in context with specific medical conditions.

Writing in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, developmental biologists Martin Cohn, Ph.D., and Zhengui Zheng, Ph.D., of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the department of molecular genetics and microbiology at the UF College of Medicine, show that male and female digit proportions are determined by the balance of sex hormones during early embryonic development. Differences in how these hormones activate receptors in males and females affect the growth of specific digits.

The discovery provides a genetic explanation for a raft of studies that link finger proportions with traits ranging from sperm counts, aggression, musical ability, sexual orientation and sports prowess, to health problems such as autism, depression, heart attack and breast cancer.

It has long been suspected that the digit ratio is influenced by sex hormones, but until now direct experimental evidence was lacking.

"The discovery that growth of the developing digits is controlled directly by androgen and estrogen receptor activity confirms that finger proportions are a lifelong signature of our early hormonal milieu," Cohn said. "In addition to understanding the basis of one of the more bizarre differences between the sexes, it's exciting to think that our fingers can tell us something about the signals that we were exposed to during a short period of our time in the womb. There is growing evidence that a number of adult diseases have fetal origins. With the new data, we've shown that that the digit ratio reflects one's prenatal androgen and estrogen activity, and that could have some explanatory power."

Cohn and Zheng, also members of the UF Genetics Institute, found that the developing digits of male and female mouse embryos are packed with receptors for sex hormones. By following the prenatal development of the limb buds of mice, which have a digit length ratio similar to humans, the scientists controlled the gene signaling effects of androgen -- also known as testosterone -- and estrogen.

Essentially, more androgen equated to a proportionally longer fourth digit. More estrogen resulted in a feminized appearance. The study uncovered how these hormonal signals govern the rate at which skeletal precursor cells divide, and showed that different finger bones have different levels of sensitivity to androgen and estrogen.

Since Roman times, people have associated the hand's fourth digit with the wearing of rings. In many cultures, a proportionally longer ring finger in men has been taken as a sign of fertility.
"I've been struggling to understand this trait since 1998," said John T. Manning, Ph.D., a professor at Swansea University in the United Kingdom, who was not involved in the current research. "When I read this study, I thought, thank goodness, we've attracted the attention of a developmental biologist with all the sophisticated techniques of molecular genetics and biology."

In dozens of papers and two books, including the seminal "Digit Ratio" in 2002, Manning has studied the meaning of the relative lengths of second and fourth digits in humans, known to scientists as the 2D:4D ratio.

"When Zheng and Cohn blocked testosterone receptors, they got a female digit ratio," Manning said. "When they added testosterone they got super male ratios, and when they added estrogen, super female ratios. And they've provided us with a list of 19 genes that are sensitive to prenatal testosterone and prenatal estrogen.

"I find this completely convincing and very useful," Manning said. "We can now be more focused in our examination of the links between digit ratio and sex-dependent behaviors, diseases of the immune system, cardiovascular disorders and a number of cancers."

Cohn, whose uses the tools of genetics, genomics and molecular biology to study limb development, said his lab began studying the digit ratios after Zheng became determined to find an explanation.
"He suggested that the 2D:4D ratio would be an interesting question, and I have to admit to being skeptical," Cohn said. "When he came back with the initial results, I was blown away. We looked at each others hands, then got busy planning the next experiment."

Finger Length Predicts Mental Toughness in Sport

ScienceDaily (Dec. 3, 2010) — Mental toughness and an aptitude for sport may be biologically determined.

This is one of the findings of an ongoing research project involving post-doctoral and doctoral research by Dr Jim Golby and Jennifer Meggs from Teesside University who will present their work on November 10 at the Division of Sport and Exercise Psychology's Annual Conference being held at the Holiday Inn London -- Camden Lock.

Previous research has shown that the 2D:4D ratio (index finger/ring finger) has the potential to explain sporting success. An index finger that is much shorter than the ring finger is caused by exposure to testosterone in the womb. This research investigated the relationship between 2D:4D and mental toughness, optimism, aggression and performance.

Sixty-seven participants had their fingers measured and completed personality and aggression questionnaires.

The results showed that participants with 2D:4D ratio were more likely to demonstrate mental toughness and have higher levels of sporting achievements.

Dr Golby explained: "It appears that high prenatal levels of testosterone may result in increased mental toughness, optimism and hence aptitude towards sport. This provides tentative support for the conclusion that mental toughness may be partially biologically predetermined."

Osteoarthritis Risk Linked To Finger Length Ratio

..............Professor Michael Doherty, lead researcher, said: “The 2D:4D length ratio appears to be a new risk factor for the development of OA. Specifically, women with the 'male' pattern of 2D:4D length ratio — that is, ring finger relatively longer than the index finger — are more likely to develop knee OA.”

As the first study to examine the relationship between 2D:4D length ratio and OA, it also raises questions.

Finger Length Points to Prostate Cancer Risk

The study led by The University of Warwick and The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) found men whose index finger is longer than their ring finger were one third less likely to develop the disease than men with the opposite finger length pattern.

"Our results show that relative finger length could be used as a simple test for prostate cancer risk, particularly in men aged under 60," says joint senior author Professor Ros Eeles from the ICR and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. "This exciting finding means that finger pattern could potentially be used to select at-risk men for ongoing screening, perhaps in combination with other factors such as family history or genetic testing.".......................

Don

High Levels of Potentially Toxic Flame Retardants in California Pregnant Women

Flame retardant chemicals, known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have been widely used in furniture foam, plastics, carpets, consumer electronics, wire insulation, and other products since the 1970s.

ScienceDaily (Aug. 11, 2011) — A new study finds that pregnant women in Northern California have the highest PBDE flame retardant exposures reported to date among pregnant women worldwide. It also describes some of the first evidence from humans that certain flame retardants may interfere with thyroid hormone signaling during pregnancy, which is critical to fetal brain development.

 

The study, described as one of the most extensive to date on flame retardant exposures in pregnant women, appears in the ACS journal Environmental Science & Technology.

Ami Zota and colleagues note that the flame retardant chemicals, known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have been widely used in furniture foam, plastics, carpets, consumer electronics, wire insulation, and other products since the 1970s. Although California banned manufacture and import of certain PBDEs in 2004, human exposure continues from old products, house dust, food, and other sources. Studies suggest that PBDE exposure during pregnancy may disrupt thyroid function, with adverse effects on normal development of the fetus's brain that persist throughout life, and also have adverse effects on the mother.

In their study of 25 second-trimester pregnant women in California, the researchers found the highest-ever levels of certain PBDEs among pregnant women worldwide. The high exposure most likely was the unintended consequence of California's furniture flammability standards, which manufacturers have met since 1975 by adding PBDE's to foam in upholstered furniture, Zota and colleagues said. While preliminary, the study also found a link between PBDE levels and levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, a substance produced in the brain, that helps regulate activity of the thyroid gland.

Genetic Variables and Vitamin D Levels

Heritability and Seasonal Variability of Vitamin D Concentrations in Male Twins
Cristina Karohl, Shaoyong Su, Meena Kumari, Vin Tangpricha, Emir Veledar, Viola Vaccarino, and Paolo Raggi. Am J Clin Nutr December 2010 vol. 92 no. 6 1393-1398

Abstract

Background: Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations can be affected by several environmental and individual factors. It is not clear to what extent genetic influences play a role in determining vitamin D status. Thus far, studies on the heritability of vitamin D have provided conflicting results.

Objective: We estimated the heritability of vitamin D concentrations and the effect of season on heritability estimates.

Design: We measured serum 25(OH)D concentrations in 510 middle-aged, male twins (310 monozygotic and 200 dizygotic twins) selected from the Vietnam Era Twin Registry. Generalized estimating equations were used to test the association between 25(OH)D and other study factors. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the heritability of 25(OH)D.

Results: The twins’ mean (±SD) age was 55 ± 2.8 y. The mean (±SD) 25(OH)D concentration was 38.4 ± 23.3 ng/mL with a substantial seasonal variation (a 6.1-ng/mL lower value during the winter than during the summer, P = 0.003). Approximately 70% of the variation in 25(OH)D concentrations during the winter was explained by genetic factors. However, in the summer, 25(OH)D concentrations were not heritable. During the summer, 53% of the variation in 25(OH)D concentrations was due to shared environmental factors, and 47% of the variation in 25(OH)D concentrations was due to unique environmental factors.

Conclusions: Serum 25(OH)D concentrations are highly heritable during the winter season only. In the summer, environmental conditions (eg, sun exposure) prevail over genetic backgrounds in determining serum 25(OH)D concentrations.

Viruses in the Human Gut Show Dynamic Response to Diet

ScienceDaily (Aug. 31, 2011) — The digestive system is home to a myriad of viruses, but how they are involved in health and disease is poorly understood. In a study published online August 30 in Genome Research, researchers have investigated the dynamics of virus populations in the human gut, shedding new light on the gut "virome" and how it differs between people and responds to changes in diet.

 

"Our bodies are like coral reefs," said Dr. Frederic Bushman of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, senior author of the study, "inhabited by many diverse creatures interacting with each other and with us." The interactions between viruses, bacteria, and the human host likely have significant consequences for human health and disease, especially in the delicate ecosystem of the gut microbiome.

In this work, lead author Sam Minot, Bushman, and colleagues investigated the dynamics of the gut virome during perturbations to diet. The group studied six healthy volunteers -- some received a high fat and low fiber diet, others a low fat and high fiber diet, and one an ad-lib diet.

By analyzing DNA sequences from viruses and bacteria present in stool of the volunteers over the course of eight days, they found that although the largest variation in virus diversity observed occurred between individuals, over time dietary intervention significantly changed the proportions of virus populations in individuals on the same diet, so that the viral populations became more similar.

"The study provides a new window on the vast viral populations that live in the human gut, demonstrates that they vary radically between individuals, and shows that dietary changes can affect not just bacterial populations but also viral populations," Bushman said.

Vitamin D Lower in NFL Football Players Who Suffered Muscled Injuries

ScienceDaily (July 11, 2011) — Vitamin D deficiency has been known to cause an assortment of health problems. Now, a recent study -- being presented at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine's (AOSSM) Annual Meeting in San Diego -- suggests that lack of the vitamin might also increase the chance of muscle injuries in athletes, specifically NFL football players.

"Eighty percent of the football team we studied had vitamin D insufficiency. African American players and players who suffered muscle injuries had significantly lower levels," said Michael Shindle, MD, lead researcher and member of Summit Medical Group.

Researchers identified 89 football players from a single NFL team and provided laboratory testing of vitamin D levels in the spring 2010 as part of routine pre-season evaluations. The mean age of the players was 25. The team provided data to determine the number of players who had lost time due to muscle injuries. Vitamin D levels were then classified based on player race and time lost due to muscle injury.

Twenty-seven players had deficient levels (< 20 ng/ML) and an additional 45 had levels consistent with insufficiency (20-31.9 ng/mL). Seventeen players had values within normal limits (>32 ng/mL). The mean vitamin D level in white players was 30.3 ng/mL while the mean level for black players was 20.4 ng/mL. Sixteen players suffered a muscle injury with a mean vitamin D level of 19.9.

"Screening and treatment of vitamin D insufficiency in professional athletes may be a simple way to help prevent injuries," said Dr. Scott Rodeo, MD, Co-Chief of the Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

Don

2011 NSCA Conference - Sport Nutritional Support

The Use of Creatine as a Nutritional Supplement

We need to relalize the the use of ergogenic aid need to be utilized and will be consumed by athletes. In accepting this and understanding the science behind the athletes descission we are better able to provide the athlete with healthy and nutritionally dense alternatives to the synthetic nutritionally devoid choices the currently have.

International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: creatine supplementation and exercise

ISSN Position Statement: The following nine points related to the use of creatine as a nutritional supplement constitute the Position Statement of the Society. They have been approved by the Research Committee of the Society. (2007)

1. Creatine monohydrate is the most effective ergogenic nutritional supplement currently available to athletes in terms of increasing high-intensity exercise capacity and lean body mass during training.

2. Creatine monohydrate supplementation is not only safe, but possibly beneficial in regard to preventing injury and/or management of select medical conditions when taken within recommended guidelines.

3. There is no scientific evidence that the short- or long-term use of creatine monohydrate has any detrimental effects on otherwise healthy individuals.

4. If proper precautions and supervision are provided, supplementation in young athletes is acceptable and may provide a nutritional alternative to potentially dangerous anabolic drugs.

5. At present, creatine monohydrate is the most extensively studied and clinically effective form of creatine for use in nutritional supplements in terms of muscle uptake and ability to increase high-intensity exercise capacity.

6. The addition of carbohydrate or carbohydrate and protein to a creatine supplement appears to increase muscular retention of creatine, although the effect on performance measures may not be greater than using creatine monohydrate alone.

7. The quickest method of increasing muscle creatine stores appears to be to consume ~0.3 grams/kg/day of creatine monohydrate for at least 3 days followed by 3–5 g/d thereafter to maintain elevated stores. Ingesting smaller amounts of creatine monohydrate (e.g., 2–3 g/d) will increase muscle creatine stores over a 3–4 week period, however, the performance effects of this method of supplementation are less supported.

8. Creatine products are readily available as a dietary supplement and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Specifically, in 1994, U.S. President Bill Clinton signed into law the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). DSHEA allows manufacturers/companies/brands to make structure-function claims; however, the law strictly prohibits disease claims for dietary supplements.

9. Creatine monohydrate has been reported to have a number of potentially beneficial uses in several clinical populations, and further research is warranted in these areas.

Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2007, 4:6doi:10.1186/1550-2783-4-6
The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online at: http://www.jissn.com/content/4/1/6

Where can one get protein?

Protein Needs......

While carbohydrates are the key nutrient for fueling intense training, protein is the key nutrient for maximizing training adaptations.

Protein ingestion is associated with the following functions:

• Increased rates of protein synthesis
• Increased lean muscle mass accretion
• Improved strength
• Improved recovery from exercise
• Improved immunity
• Decreased musculoskeletal injuries

The current recommended level of protein intake (0.8 g/kg/day) is estimated to be sufficient to meet the needs of nearly all (97.5%) healthy men and women age 19 years and older. This amount of protein intake may be appropriate for nonathletes, but it is likely not sufficient to offset the oxidation of protein/amino acids during exercise training (approximately 1 – 5% of the total energy cost of exercise) nor is it sufficient to provide substrate for lean tissue accretion or for the repair of exercise induced muscle damage. In fact, some of the leading research organizations serving athletes have published recommendations that exceed the 0.8 g/kg/day threshold.

There is a consistent observation that 0.8 g//kg of body weight is NOT sufficient for supporting whole body protein synthesis or inducing a positive net protein balance.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association recommends athletes consume 1.5 to 2.0 g/kg of body weight of protein to ensure adequate protein intake.

• Athletes involved in moderate amounts of intense training (2 – 3 times per week for 30 – 45 minutes per session) should consume levels at the lower end of this range (110 – 130 grams/day for a 75kg athlete).
• Athletes involved in high volume intense training should consume levels at the upper end of this range (130– 150 grams/day for a 75kg athlete).

Source: www.nsca-lift.org

2011 NSCA Conference

After attending NSCA National Convention this year, I will look at several topics discussed at the National Convention to bring awareness to what is being promoted out there and how we can adjust and present this accepted knowlede in a healthy fashion.

Topic presented were:

• Creatine - Can we consistantly get enough from our diet?
• Are we getting enough Calories?
• Macronutrients: Is this our only concern?
• Fluid and Electrolytes
• Protein requirements for different training populations.
• Pre and post workout supplimentation: Nutritional Timing of it all.
• Milk: Where does it fit into the equation?
• Some products that I liked.

Don

What is Organic Foods

The USDA currently has a program for certifying organic foods. On their website, they answer the question, "What is organic food?" in this way:

Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled "organic," a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.

It is my position that organically grown foods offer Americans a healthier alternative to conventionally grown foods. So let's examine the evidence for organic food.

On August 22, 2002, Dr. Erik Steen Kristensen of the Danish Research Centre for Organic Farming presented data on food safety from an organic perspective at the 14th International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements Congress in Victoria, Canada. Dr. Kristensen offered the following reason's to consider organic foods:

* Discovery of animals with BSE
* Bovine spongiform encephalopathy, aka, mad cow disease
* Increased occurrence of Salmonella in meat and eggs
* Increased occurrence of campylobacter in meat
* Listeria in dairy products
* Increased occurrence of dioxin in food and fodder
* Too high amounts of pesticides, antibiotics, additives etc. in food * Toxic fungi in food from stocks

Indeed, various data indicates that compared to conventionally grown produce, organically grown produce has:

* Higher vitamin C levels
* Lower nitrate levels (less carcinogenic potential)
* Higher phenol levels (protection against cancer and cardiovascular disease)
* Lower levels of heavy metals
* Lower or zero levels of food additives (less food intolerance and carcinogenic potential)

Likewise, Dr. Kristensen presented data indicating that compared to conventional animal foods (e.g. meat), organic animal foods have:

* Higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid or CLA (preventive against cancer and arteriosclerosis)
* Higher levels of vitamin C
* Higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins
* Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids
* Zero myotoxins (less potential problems for liver, kidney, nervous system)
* Lower residues of medicines (less transfer of resistance genes to human pathogens)

In addition, animal studies show higher fertility and less morbidity in animals fed organically. Furthermore, when given a choice, animals prefer organic to conventionally produced fodder. At this point, however, similar studies have not been conducted on humans.

Collectively, all of this data makes a pretty good case for recommending that the public make organic foods choices whenever possible, especially when trying to detoxify and avoid additional sources of toxins.

Natural Alternatives to Musculoskeletal Trauma

Traumatic musculoskeletal and discogenic injuries are commonly associated with sports participation. Inflammation with pain, swelling, and erythema is the body's natural response to injury. In an attempt to reduce pain and swelling, athletes often use antiinflammatory agents that act on the arachidonic acid/COX and the NF-κB pathways mediating inflammation. Unfortunately, pharmacological agents designed to interfere with these pathways often have undesirable side effects such as gastric ulceration and, infrequently, myocardial infarction and stroke.

For centuries, natural antiinflammatory agents have been used to mediate the inflammatory process. More recently, many of these have been found to reduce inflammation in a similar manner to pharmacological agents but often with fewer side effects. Several plant-derived natural preperations that could reduce costs and side effects in patients who use them, with similar effectiveness in treating the inflammatory reaction to trauma are available.

Boswellia Serrata Resin (Frankincense) - Boswellia Complex
Curcumin (Turmeric) - Tumeric (liquid) and Boswellia Complex
Uncaria Tomentosa (Cat's Claw) - Cat's Claw Forte and Cat's Claw Liquid
Pycnogenol (Maritime Pine Bark) - HerbaVital
Green Tea - Vitanox
White Willow Bark - Salegisic
Omega-3 EFAs (Fish Oil) - Tuna Omega 3 and Calamari Oil
Vitamin D - Cataplex D

Why we should be testing zinc levels in ALL of our clients……………

Zinc is an essential trace element. It is one of the most important trace elements needed by the body. Of the many hundreds of protein enzymes present in the body which allow its chemistry to work, zinc is required by over three hundred (300) of them. Thus, it can easily be seen how a deficiency of zinc can affect so many different functions.

Zinc is also important in the production of hormone like substances called prostaglandins (PGs). PGs are vital to numerous body functions including:

• the function of the immune system
• the expression and control of inflammation
• skin and wound healing
• functions of the heart and cardiovascular system
• absorption of various minerals
• body temperature control
• the important functions of fertility, conception, and delivery of the infant.

The way in which zinc influences PG production is by supporting the function of the enzymes which permit the conversion of the polyunsaturated fatty acids into PGs. The action of zinc is very direct in stimulating the normal production of PGs thereby maintaining or restoring normal health and fitness.

Zinc deficiency can result in many symptoms including: loss of appetite, growth retardation, diarrhea, tremor, hair loss, dandruff, a dry skin rash, white lines on fingernails, increased allergic sensitivity, disturbance of menstrual periods, pre-menstrual syndrome, delay of wound healing, loss of taste or smell sensation, dyslexia, poor night vision, photophobia (sensitivity to light), depression, sleep disturbance, hyperactivity, reduced fertility, loss of sex drive, pre-eclampsia (toxemia) of pregnancy and post-natal depression.

It has been observed that those suffering with any of the auto-immune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis), atopic problems (allergy, eczema, asthma or migraine), or many of the inflammatory diseases (such as osteoarthritis or irritable bowel syndrome) have a consistent, and often severe, zinc deficiency which is greatly benefited by zinc replacement therapy.

The zinc taste test is used to evaluate this common state of deficiency. This simple and non-toxic test was devised and developed by Professor Derek Bryce-Smith, Professor of Biochemistry at Reading University. Professor Bryce Smith is an established authority on zinc and numerous other biochemical topics.

The test solution is zinc sulfate in purified water at a concentration of 2.5 gm/10ml. The test is based on the knowledge that the functions of taste and smell are dependent upon there being sufficient zinc available in the body. Therefore, if zinc is deficient, then taste function will be diminished. This principle is utilized in the taste test by offering a standard test solution of zinc sulfate for tasting.

The Zinc Taste Test (ZTT) is a valid assessment of patient zinc status with a basis in biochemistry. In 1981 Shatzman and Henkin published results of their research regarding gustin concentration in patients with hypogeusia in the Proc Natl. Acad. Sci., Vol. 78, No 6, pp. 3867-3871, June. Gustin is a zinc dependent polypeptide found in saliva that is thought to be a taste bud growth factor. These researchers found saliva gustin levels in patients with hypogeusia to be as low as 1/5 that of controls! These patients exhibited maximal changes in taste acuity after 12 days of zinc sulfate supplementation. In 1984 information appeared in the Lancet (Aug 11, p. 350; Nov 17, p. 1162) regarding the use of the Zinc Taste Test (ZTT) in patients with anorexia and depression. This test was developed and used because plasma and serum zinc levels were considered unreliable measures of zinc status. Test procedure is given in the Nov 17 letter as well as the finding that patients failing the test may be expected to respond favorably to supplementation with zinc sulfate. Schauss, A., Costin, C., Am J. Nat. Med., Vol. 4, No 10, Dec. 1997. The authors point out that zinc deficiency can directly cause a loss of taste acuity and appetite as was first demonstrated in 1934. Studies have found that gustatory sensitivity (or lack thereof) may be an indicator of the “functional” availability of zinc.

Why Do We Use a Chelated Form of Zinc?

The most efficiently absorbed form of zinc is the chelated form. This is where the zinc is combined with amino acids, which assists in its absorption.
Source: Dr Bruce Bond

Zinc modulates mRNA levels of cytokines.
Bao Bin; Prasad Ananda S; Beck Frances W J; Godmere Michele (Profiled Author: Ananda S Prasad)
American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism 2003;285(5):E1095-102.

Abstract
Zinc plays an important role in cell-mediated immune function. Altered cellular immune response resulting from zinc deficiency leads to frequent microbial infections, thymic atrophy, decreased natural killer activity, decreased thymic hormone activity, and altered cytokine production. In this study, we examined the effect of zinc deficiency on IL-2 and IFN-gamma in HUT-78 (Th0) and D1.1 (Th1) cell lines and TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-8 in the HL-60 (monocyte-macrophage) cell line. The results demonstrate that zinc deficiency decreased the levels of IL-2 and IFN-gamma cytokines and mRNAs in HUT-78 after 6 h of PMA/p-phytohemagglutinin (PHA) stimulation and in D1.1 cells after 6 h of PHA/ionomycin stimulation compared with the zinc-sufficient cells. However, zinc deficiency increased the levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-8 cytokines and mRNAs in HL-60 cells after 6 h of PMA stimulation compared with zinc-sufficient cells. Actinomycin D study suggests that the changes in the levels of these cytokine mRNAs were not the result of the stability affected by zinc but might be the result of altered expression of these cytokine genes. These data demonstrate that zinc mediates positively the gene expression of IL-2 and IFN-gamma in the Th1 cell line and negatively TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-8 in the monocyte-macrophage cell line. Our study shows that the effect of zinc on gene expression and production of cytokines is cell lineage specific.

Zinc: Mechanisms of Host Defense.
Prasad Ananda S (Profiled Author: Ananda S Prasad)
The Journal of nutrition 2007;137(5):1345-9.

Abstract
Zinc deficiency in humans decreases the activity of serum thymulin (a thymic hormone), which is required for maturation of T-helper cells. T-helper 1 (Th(1)) cytokines are decreased but T-helper 2 (Th(2)) cytokines are not affected by zinc deficiency in humans. This shift of Th(1) to Th(2) function results in cell-mediated immune dysfunction. Because IL-2 production (Th(1) cytokine) is decreased, this leads to decreased activities of natural-killer cell and T cytolytic cells, which are involved in killing viruses, bacteria, and tumor cells. In humans, zinc deficiency may decrease the generation of new CD4+ T cells from the thymus. In cell culture studies (HUT-78, a Th(0) human malignant lymphoblastoid cell line), as a result of zinc deficiency, nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation, phosphorylation of IkappaB, and binding of NF-kappaB to DNA are decreased and this results in decreased Th(1) cytokine production. In another study, zinc supplementation to humans decreased the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased oxidative stress markers. In HL-60 cells (a human pro-myelocytic leukemia cell line), zinc deficiency increased the levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-8 cytokines and mRNA. In these cells, zinc induced A20, a zinc finger protein that inhibited NF-kappaB activation via tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor pathway, and this decreased gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. We conclude that zinc has an important role in cell-mediated immune functions and also functions as antiinflammatory and antioxidant agent.


Clinical, immunological, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant roles of zinc.
Prasad Ananda S (Profiled Author: Ananda S Prasad)
Experimental gerontology 2008;43(5):370-7.

Abstract
The essentiality of zinc for humans was recognized only 40 years ago. Zinc deficiency was suspected to occur in Iranian patients with growth retardation, hypogonadism in males, hepato-splenomegaly, rough and dry skin, geophagia and severe iron deficiency anemia. Later we documented zinc deficiency in similar patients in Egypt. The diet of these patients consisted of mainly cereal proteins which contained high phytate and this led to decreased availability of iron and zinc. These patients had severe immune dysfunctions, inasmuch as they died of intercurrent infections by the time they were 25 years of age. In our studies in experimental human model of zinc deficiency, we documented decreased serum testosterone level, oligospermia, severe immune dysfunctions mainly affecting T helper cells, decreased serum thymulin activity hyperammonemia, neuro-sensory disorders and decreased lean body mass. The basic mechanisms of zinc action on immune cells have been reviewed in this paper. Our studies showed that the activation of many zinc dependent enzymes and transcription factors were affected adversely due to zinc deficiency. The gene expression and production of Th1 cytokines were affected adversely due to zinc deficiency. Zinc is also an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory actions. We have reported decreased plasma zinc, increased plasma oxidative stress markers and increased generation of inflammatory cytokines in the elderly subjects which were corrected by zinc supplementation. In cell culture studies, we have observed that zinc induces A20 which inhibits NF-kappaB activation resulting in decreased generation of inflammatory cytokines.

Zinc Deficiency and Th1 Functions: Molecular Mechanisms
Ananda S Prasad
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES
1 August 2002 - 31 January 2007

Abstract
Zinc plays an important role in immune functions in humans. Decreased thymulin activity, decreased production of IL- 2, decreased NK cell lytic activity, decreased cytolytic T cells, anergy, decreased CD4/CD8 and decreased CD4+ CD45RA+/CD4+ CD45RO+ ratios, have been observed in zinc deficient humans and these abnormalities are corrected by zinc supplementation. In order to understand the mechanism of zinc action on IL-2 production, we propose to utilize HUT-78, a ThO human malignant lymphoblastoid cell line for our studies. The human IL-2 gene promoter contains one binding site for genuine Rel/NF-kB factors and binding of NF- kB to DNA is specifically blocked by a zinc chelator and is reconstituted by addition of zinc. NF-kB also binds to the regulatory gene of IL-2 receptor alpha. We hypothesize that in zinc deficient HUT-78 cells, the activation and translocation of NF-kB to nucleus and the gene expression of NF-kB will be decreased and this will lead to decreased gene expression of IL-2 and IL-2 receptor alpha and decreased production of IL-2, sIL-2 receptor alpha and total sIL-2 receptors. The effect of different concentrations of zinc on NF-kB activation in HUT-78 cells will be determined by i) nuclear binding of NF-kB by gel shift assay and confocal imaging ii) gene transfection of cells with luciferase reporter gene vector containing NF-kB enhancer element and iii) assays of phosphorylated, unphosphorylated and ubiquitinated forms of IkB (the inhibitory molecule of the NF-kB complex) in cellular cytosolic fraction. The functional role of NF-kB on transcriptional activation of IL-2 and IL-2 receptor alpha as affected by zinc will be determined by using antisense p105 expression vector in HUT-78 cells. We are also hypothesizing that NF-kB activation, IL-2 production and IL-2 mRNA will be decreased in PHA stimulated zinc deficient human mononuclear cells and that these abnormalities will be corrected by in vivo and in vitro zinc supplementation. For this study we will select appropriate number of healthy ambulatory elderly subjects from a nursing home. Our previous experience indicates that approximately 30 percent of these healthy elderly are zinc deficient.

Zinc deficiency in Mexican American children: influence of zinc and other micronutrients on T cells, cytokines, and antiinflammatory plasma proteins.
Sandstead Harold H; Prasad Ananda S; Penland James G; Beck Frances W J; Kaplan Joseph; Egger Norman G; Alcock Nancy W; Carroll Richard M; Ramanujam V M S; Dayal Hari H; Rocco Carmen D; Plotkin Ruth Ann; Zavaleta Antonio N (Profiled Authors: Ananda S Prasad; Joseph Kaplan)
The American journal of clinical nutrition 2008;88(4):1067-73.

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey suggested some Mexican American children are at risk of zinc deficiency. OBJECTIVE: We measured the effects of zinc and micronutrients or of micronutrients alone on indexes of cell-mediated immunity and antiinflammatory plasma proteins. DESIGN: Subjects (n = 54) aged 6-7 y were randomly assigned and treated in double-blind fashion in equal numbers with 20 mg Zn (as sulfate) and micronutrients or with micronutrients alone 5 d/wk for 10 wk. RESULTS: Before treatment the mean +/- SD plasma zinc was 14.9 +/- 1.7 micromol/dL and the range was within the reference; hair zinc was 1.78 +/- 0.52 micromol/g and 41.6% were < or =1.68 micromol/g; serum ferritin was 25.7 +/- 18.6 microg/L and 50.0% were < or =20 microg/L. The zinc and micronutrients treatment increased the lymphocyte ratios of CD4(+) to CD8(+) and of CD4(+)CD45RA(+) to CD4(+)CD45RO(+), increased the ex vivo generation of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), decreased the generation of interleukin-10 (IL-10), and increased plasma interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (sIL-1ra) and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (sTNF-R1). Micronutrients alone increased the ratio of CD4(+) to CD8(+) but not of CD4(+)CD45RA(+) to CD4(+)CD45RO(+), increased IFN-gamma but had no effect on IL-2 or IL-10, and increased sIL-1ra but not sTNF-R1. Efficacy of zinc and micronutrients was greater than micronutrients alone for all indexes except the ratio of CD4(+) to CD8(+), which was affected similarly. CONCLUSIONS: Before treatment, concentrations of hair zinc in 41.6%
of subjects and serum ferritin in 50% were consistent with the presence of zinc deficiency. The greater efficacy of the zinc and micronutrients treatment compared with micronutrients alone supports this interpretation.

Zinc enhances the expression of interleukin-2 and interleukin-2 receptors in HUT-78 cells by way of NF-kappaB activation.
Prasad Ananda S; Bao Bin; Beck Frances W J; Sarkar Fazlul H (Profiled Authors: Ananda S Prasad; Fazlul H Sarkar)
The Journal of laboratory and clinical medicine 2002;140(4):272-89.

Abstract
Production of interleukin (IL)-2 is decreased in zinc-deficient human beings, and zinc is essential to IL-2-mediated T-cell activation. We used a human Th(0) malignant lymphoblastoid cell line, HUT-78, to study the effect of zinc on IL-2 production in PHA/PMA activated T-cells. In zinc-deficient cells, the gene expression of IL-2 was decreased by 50% compared with that in zinc-sufficient cells. The effect of zinc was specific and at the transcriptional level. We also showed a significant effect of zinc on the gene expression of IL-2 receptors alpha and beta. Binding of NF-kappaB (a zinc-dependent transcription factor) to DNA was decreased in zinc-deficient cells. Using transfection of expression vectors of anti-sense NF-kappaB p105 (precursor of NF-kappaB p50) in cells, we showed that a decrease in gene expression of IL-2 and IL-2 Ralpha may be partly due to decreased activation of NF-kappaB in zinc-deficient cells. Our studies demonstrate, for the first time, the role of zinc in gene expression of IL-2 and its receptors in HUT-78 cells. We also document that the binding of NF-kappaB to DNA was adversely affected, thereby decreasing the gene expression of IL-2 and IL-2 Ralpha in zinc-deficient HUT-78 cells.

Zinc in Cancer Prevention.
Prasad Ananda S; Beck Frances W J; Snell Diane C; Kucuk Omer (Profiled Author: Ananda S Prasad)
Nutrition and cancer 2009;61(6):879-87.

Abstract
Essentiality of zinc for humans was discovered 45 yr ago. Deficiency of zinc is prevalent world wide in developing countries and may affect nearly 2 billion subjects. The major manifestations of zinc deficiency include growth retardation, hypogonadism in males, cell-mediated immune dysfunctions, and cognitive impairment. Zinc not only improves cell mediated immune functions but also functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation have been implicated in development of many cancers. In patients with head and neck cancer, we have shown that nearly 65% of these patients were zinc deficient based on their cellular zinc concentrations. Natural killer (NK) cell activity and IL-2 generation were also affected adversely. Th2 cytokines were not affected. In our patients, zinc status was a better indicator of tumor burden and stage of disease in comparison to the overall nutritional status. Zinc status also correlated with number of hospital admissions and incidences of infections. NF-kappa B is constitutively activated in many cancer cells, and this results in activation of antiapoptotic genes, VEGF, cyclin DI, EGFR, MMP-9 and inflammatory cytokines. Zinc inhibits NF-kappa B via induction of A-20. Thus, zinc supplementation should have beneficial effects on cancer by decreasing angiogenesis and induction of inflammatory cytokines while increasing apoptosis in cancer cells. Based on the above, we recommend further studies and propose that zinc should be utilized in the management and chemoprevention of cancer.

Don

Protein Powder Basics

The fact of the matter is that protein supplementation works and does so with a great deal of efficacy with regards to stimulating muscle protein synthesis (MPS). In other words, protein supplementation helps the fitness enthusiast increase muscle mass, muscle tone and definition, and therefore aids in the process of fat loss; exactly what we want from it. If you aren't taking enough protein in during a diet, it won't make a difference what form you're using, you will still lose muscle tissue.
In one study published by the Journal of Nutrition researchers did note that casein protein is especially of a higher quality when compared to soy, making it an important source of protein to be getting. If you happen to be following a vegetarian diet where meat is limited (another high quality source of protein), then adding in casein if you're okay with dairy products will be your next best bet.

There are numerous brands of protein powders out there, and of course, there are numerous sources of protein from which to choose, whey and casein being the most popular. The one question being common to all: Which is better, whey or casein?

What is it and where does it come from?

Casein

Casein is dairy protein and accounts for almost 80% of all proteins found in cow's milk. It has a very rich pool of amino acids, almost identical to whey protein, which is a byproduct of cheese. This pool of amino acids is high in essential aminos, which are responsible for muscle protein synthesis, or MPS.

When ingested, casein forms a clot in the stomach which slows down the rate of gastric emptying, which affects the rate at which amino acids are absorbed into the blood stream. In other words, because of this clot, the casein takes longer to be digested in the stomach, which slows down the amount of amino acids being released into the small intestine where they are absorbed.

This slow and steady flow of amino acids creates a prolonged yet low rate of MPS. This makes casein the ideal protein supplement to take when going to bed, or when you know you will be going prolonged periods without the opportunity to refuel.

Much like whey protein, there are numerous standard choices when it comes to casein supplements. The most common casein supplements are milk protein and calcium caseinate. However, the most effective is micellar casein.

Micellar casein is to slow release protein supplements, what hydrolyzed whey is to fast acting proteins. These are the pinnacle of protein supplementation.

Disadvantages

Slow digestion can be a negative before or after training when you are trying to get amino acids into the system quickly. People who have problems with lactose may have gas, and some people are allergic, which can cause bloating. The sodium content can cause bloating.

Whey protein

Out of the many protein sources out there, whey protein is the ultimate. Whey is a natural byproduct of the cheese-making process (from milk). Approximately 20 percent of the protein found in milk is whey protein. Whey is rich in branch chain amino acids, lactose, minerals, and vitamins and contains lactalbumin (similar to serum albumin) and traces of fat.

Ionic whey protein has the highest value in providing branched-chain amino acids, which result in building and retaining muscle tissue.

Whey protein has been shown to increase protein synthesis. Some studies have also indicated that whey contributes to immune function among others.

Whey has also shown powerful antioxidant effects as it enhances glutathione levels. Glutathione is a tri-peptide that contains one amino acid residue from each of the following: glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. Glutathione occurs widely in plant and animal tissues and plays a major role in protecting skeletal muscle and other body tissues from oxidative damage.

Glutathione helps maintain compounds such as iron in its proper oxidation state in hemoglobin. Protein sources containing high levels of cysteine (whey contains 2-2.5 percent cysteine) may be effective in maintaining or replenishing whole blood glutathione.

Whey protein isolate is the most pure and concentrated form of whey protein available. It contains 90 percent or more protein and very little (if any) fat and lactose. Whey protein concentrate has anywhere between 29-89 percent protein depending upon the product.

As the protein level in whey protein concentrate decreases, the amounts of fat and/or lactose usually increases. Another type of whey protein supplement is whey protein hydrolysates, meaning that the whey is predigested into peptides (small chains of amino acids). These supposedly help the protein be absorbed better.

What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?

Whey protein provides the body with the necessary building blocks to produce amino acids that are used for building muscle tissue. Studies have been conducted that compare whey protein to other sources. They have found that whey protein contains the perfect combination of overall amino acid makeup... and in just the right concentrations for optimal performance in the body. Both hormonal and cellular responses seem to be greatly enhanced with supplementation of whey protein, not to mention the benefits whey protein has on the body's immune system according to documented scientific research. Whey protein also plays a role as an antioxidant and an immune system builder. Most importantly, consistent whey protein intake coupled with exercise will result in consistent muscle building.

Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

Whey protein is very, very important for bodybuilders, dieters, and just about everybody. Since athletes and bodybuilders work out often, protein levels become depleted. By being a direct precursor to building muscle and essential amino acids, such as glutamine (a muscle enhancer, endurance builder, and muscle deterioration reducer), the content from high quality whey protein not only can, but will help one's muscles recover and grow faster by bring up the levels of protein. With dieting and those wishing to lose some extra fat, whey protein can be very useful because a good intake of protein balances blood sugar levels, while carbohydrates cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate. When the blood sugar levels stay balanced, one is not as prone to rampant eating and has more energy and greater fat loss. Whey protein allows a person to control his or her diet effectively. Most people who want to change their body for the better could benefit from whey protein supplementation.

How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?

Training athletes often consume 25 grams of whey protein per day. Bodybuilders who want serious gains (and are burning serious calories), generally consume 150 grams per day. Extremely high doses of whey protein is not recommended, as this will cause the body's liver to be overloaded and you won't get the same benefits as with a consistent lower amount taken three to five times per day.

Casein vs Whey

There seems to be a great deal of controversy over which one is better. I get the question all the time. From the information above, you can see that each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. Below is information that directly compares casein and whey.

A study conducted by Yves Boirie looked at healthy subjects with a normal protein intake. They fasted for ten hours then were either given 30 grams of whey protein or 30 grams of casein (milk) protein.

The study showed blood leucine levels peaked in one hour after ingestion of whey or casein. However, the whey group peaked at higher levels and returned to baseline after four hours. The casein group peaked at a lower level but didn't return to baseline until seven hours later.

Whey protein enhanced protein synthesis (postprandial protein synthesis was stimulated by 68 percent with the whey protein), but did not effect protein degradation. Casein decreased protein degradation, (protein breakdown was inhibited by 34 percent after casein ingestion) but did not effect protein synthesis.

Postprandial whole body leucine oxidation over seven hours was lower with casein. Leucine intake was identical in both meals. Therefore, the net leucine balance over the seven hours after the meal was more positive with casein.

Recent Studies

December 2001 - Consuming Protein Supplements Can Help Deter the Effects of Overtraining.

Protein intake of approx. 0.88 grams per pound of body weight resulted in increased prevention of overtraining. This study was conducted at Ball State University on 17 weight-trained men. They were put on a four week "overtraining" program were they did 8-12 rep maxes for three sets, eight exercises for the first two weeks, then five sets, five exercises for 3-5 rep maxes for the next two weeks. The men were chosen to receive either an amino acid supplement or a placebo for the duration of the four weeks (0.88 grams/lb body weight/day). Those that were given the amino acids had measureable positive changes in total testosterone, the ratio of testosterone to the protein that transports it, and hemoglobin compared to those given a placebo. This proves that adequate protein consumption is the key to making gains! Be sure to get enough (approx. 1gram per lb. of body weight).

December 2001 - Protein Taken With Carbs is Better than Protein Alone for Building Muscle

This study, conducted at University of Texas Medical Branch, measured the amount of uptake of the amino acid L-phenylalanine into healthy leg muscle tissue in one of three protein shakes. The shakes were consumed one and two hours after intense leg training and provided about 6 grams of protein, 34 grams of carbs, or both per shake for a 150 bodybuilder. The L-phenylalanine uptake in the protein and carb shake was measured as being three times higher than the carb shake and roughly twice as great as the amino shake! So, there you have it! As you know, the postworkout shake is the most critical meal for your increased anabolism. Make sure you're getting some carbs in your postworkout shake for best results.

Total fat loss when subjects either took casein protein hydrolysate in comparison with a whey protein hydrolysate

One study performed out of Boston tested the variations in lean muscle mass gains as well as total fat loss when subjects either took casein protein hydrolysate in comparison with a whey protein hydrolysate, while also eating a hypocalorie diet and performing resistance training.

While both groups did show fat loss, the group using the casein protein showed greater mean fat loss and higher increases in strength for the chest, shoulders, and legs.

In addition to this, it was also noted that the casein group came out of the study with a higher total body percentage of lean mass compared with their previous measure. This indicates a greater lean body retention rate, demonstrating casein to be especially effective at maintaining muscle.

It also should be mentioned that both protein groups did bump their protein intake up to 1.5 per kilogram of body weight per day, so that must be in place for any of these factors to come into play.

Study that was conducted by the International Journal of Obesity

Since casein protein is a form of protein that is higher in calcium content that also proves to be a benefit in terms of total fat loss. Many individuals are quick to turn away from dairy products while attempting to lose body fat because they feel it will slow them down.

This is completely opposite from the truth. One study that was conducted by the International Journal of Obesity observed that those who combined a high calcium intake over a twenty four hour period with a normal protein intake showed increased fecal fat and energy excretion for that day of approximately 350 kJ greater than those who either took in a low calcium, normal protein intake or those who consumed a high protein, high calcium intake.

This study makes mention of the importance of total protein intake with this factor, stating that it appears as though moderate levels of protein create this effect with the calcium greater than very high protein intakes do.

It appears from this research then that it's best to find a good balance between calcium and protein intake, rather than just increasing protein up higher to promote fat loss.

Casein protein powder will help you accomplish both goals of having a higher calcium intake as well as boosting your protein intake, allowing you to maximize your fat loss benefits.

Part II

Whey Pro Complete – Gluten Free

Proprietary Blend: 20 g per serving

Nondenatured whey protein concentrate (milk), nondenatured whey protein isolate (milk), colostrum (bovine), inulin (chicory), and soy lecithin.

Whey Pro Complete supports weight management, muscle tissue, immune function, and gastrointestinal health.

• Protein supplement to increase protein intake

• Supports healthy epithelial cells in the bowel

• Helps promote satiety

• Provides antioxidants

• Supports muscle growth and repair

• Contains colostrum and inulin for gastrointestinal-based immune support

• Can be mixed in a supplement shake or added to foods

You will not find this in other whey products. When I spoke with other suppliers to get a product with colostrum in it they said they could not due it because it would raise the price so drastically that they could not be competitive in the whey protein market place. The colostrum is what separates our product from the rest! It improves immune function as well as promotes maintained of lean muscle mass.

Don

Purification - Standard Process

Standard Process 21 Day Purification Program

Health Effects of Vegetables and Fruit: Assessing Mechanisms of Action in Human Experimental Studies

Epidemiologic data support the association between high intake of vegetables and fruits and low risk of chronic disease.There are several biologically plausible reasons why consumption of vegetables and fruit might slow or prevent the onset of chronic diseases. Vegetables and fruit are rich sources of a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, trace minerals, and dietary fiber, and many other classes of biologically active compounds. These phytochemicals can have complementary and overlapping mechanisms of action, including modulation of detoxification enzymes, stimulation of the immune system, reduction of platelet aggregation, modulation of cholesterol synthesis and hormone metabolism, reduction of blood pressure, and antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral effects.....................................
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 70, No. 3, 475S-490S, September 1999

A Comprehensive Approach
The Purification Program provides comprehensive nutritional (Whole Food Complexes) and botanical (Herbal) support to maintain proper functioning of the various detoxification pathways. By incorporating the nutrients mentioned above, it is able to address both phase I and phase II detoxification pathways.

Gastrointestinal support for detoxification is provided by Whey Protein, Psyllium Husk Powder, Rice Bran, Beet Root, Carrot Root, Oat Fiber, and Apple Pectin. Vitamins and minerals and amino acids required in phase II reactions such as L-glutamine, L-lysine HCL, glycine, L-carnitine and taurine, also support detoxification. Furthermore, specific ingredients such as milk thistle, citrus bioflavonoids and spanish black radish have been shown to aid in various aspects of detoxification. Cruciferous vegetables provide sulfur metabolites, contain selenium, protect against reactive oxygen species, and induce phase II enzymes. Also toxin binding is assisted with modified apple pectin.

Standard Process Purification Program

SP Cleanse

A powerful combination of over 20 whole foods and botanicals that possess detoxifying properties. They contain nutrients which support the body’s natural efforts to remove toxins and other waste materials.

• Encourages healthy kidney function
• Supports blood purification processes & lymphatic system function
• Encourages healthy gastrointestinal elimination
• Promotes healthy liver detoxification functions

Contents and Actions:

• Barley Grass Powder – Source of chlorophyll and other phytonutrients that support the antioxidant system and toxin removal. 
• Spanish Black Radish Root - Increases the activity of glutathione, quinone, and thioredoxin – enzymes involved in phase II detox; Great source of phytonutrient antioxidants such as C complex – protection against free radicals.
• Oregon Grape Root Powder - good source of antioxidants
• Fenugreek Seed Powder - cholesterol metabolisms; improve glucose tolerance by delaying carbohydrate digestion and absorption while increasing insulin activity.
• Juniper Berry Powder - natural diuretic; Essential oils that help the body excrete uric acid and other waste materials
• Red Clover Flower - promotes cleansing of the blood
• Apple Pectin - excellent source of natural fiber; Stimulate intestinal bacterial enzyme activity
• Burdock Root Powder - Natural diuretic to support healthy elimination through the kidneys
• Cayenne Pepper - Stimulate gastric secretions ; Supports liver detox by reducing oxidative stress; Reverses the depletion of glutathione in the liver
• Milk Thistle – contain flavanoids that are free radical scavengers; Hepatorestorative and Hepatoprotective – protection against toxins
• Globe Artichoke - Gallbladder and liver support; Support normal bile production and secretion; Globe Artichoke (Cynara) has a powerful effect on the production of bile and fat-digesting enzymes, stimulating liver functions and lowering cholesterol levels; Promotes digestion especially of fatty foods and normal bowel movement
• Dandelion Leaves - Healthy fluid levels ; Stimulate healthy urinary flow
• Tillandsia - Efficient chelating properties
• Broccoli, Kale, Brussel Sprouts - Contains phytochemicals that stimulate enzymatic activity for liver detoxification processes; Improve cholesterol metabolism and decrease markers of oxidative stress; Brassica vegetables provide high amounts of vitamin C and soluble fiber and contain multiple nutrients with potent cancer preventing properties: 3,3'-Diindolylmethane, sulforaphane and selenium
• Carrot Root Powder - Carrots contains a very complete nutrition to provide our body the essential enzymes, vitamins and minerals; source of B-vitamins, such as folic acid, a group of vitamin B, which has good effect to fight against free radicals (substances that cause cancer) in our body; source of Carotenoids, which can inversely affect insulin resistance and thus lower blood sugar.

SP Complete
A nutritional shake mix combining over 20 different whole foods ingredients to support the body during purification, as well as every day for a well-balanced diet.

• Provides multiple nutrient in a highly bio-available form
• Supports a healthy cardiovascular system
• Encourages healthy nervous system function
• Delivers strong antioxidant protection to promote cellular health
• Supports healthy digestive system function
• Supports healthy liver function

Contents and Actions:

• Whey Protein - high in minerals & nutrients that offer a particularly high quality source of protein
• Buckwheat - rich in rutin that helps to support vascular walls
• Barley grass - rich in Chlorophyll which assists in the natural cleansing of impurities from the blood
• Alfalfa - contains saponins which support healthy blood
• Brown rice - contains a concentrated amount of B-complex vitamins to support healthy nerves & proper brain function
• Grape Seed & Red Wine Extracts - bio-available sources of antioxidants
• Kale & Brussels Sprouts - high in fiber, Indoles, minerals, and vitamins A, C, & E complexes
• Flax Meal Powder - contains soluble/insoluble fibers and provides a healthy dose of plant lignans assisting in immune function & inhibit abnormal cell growth
• Carrot Root Powder - Carrots contains a very complete nutrition to provide our body the essential enzymes, vitamins and minerals; source of B-vitamins, such as folic acid, a group of vitamin B, which has good effect to fight against free radicals (substances that cause cancer) in our body; source of Carotenoids, which can inversely affect insulin resistance and thus lower blood sugar.

Gastro-Fiber

Provides dietary fiber from botanical and other whole food sources, delivering powerful support to the gastrointestinal system and helping detoxify the body.

• Cleanses the gastrointestinal tract
• Encourages a healthy intestinal environment
• Supports & maintain gastrointestinal lining
• Stimulates proper gastric juice flow & peristalsis
• Maintains regular intestinal evacuation
• Enhances the cleansing activities of the liver

Contents and Actions:

• Psyllium (husk) Powder - natural diuretic/stool softener; high in soluble fiber 
• Collinsonia (root) Powder - promotes cleansing of the blood
• Apple Pectin - excellent source of natural fiber
• Fennel Seed - supports digestive environment & gastric healing
• Fenugreek Seed Powder - healthy digestion & cholesterol metabolism

Whole Food Fiber

Combines six (6) whole food ingredients that play a vital role in the health of the intestinal tract.

• Contains more insoluble fiber which creates a feeling of fullness
• Encourages healthy intestinal bacteria growth
• Cleanses the gastrointestinal tract
• Promotes healthy blood glucose and lipid levels
• Enhances the cleansing activities of the liver
• Provides phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids

Contents and Actions:

• Rice Bran - regulates healthy elimination with antioxidant qualities
• Beet Root - protects from free radical damage
• Carrot Root - aids in normal elimination
• Oat Fiber - enhances the growth of “good” bacteria in the intestines
• Apple Pectin - excellent source of natural fiber, aids in digestion and healthy bowel elimination

SP Green Food

Contains five (5) organically grown whole food concentrates providing nutrients to help detoxify the liver and support the immune system.

• Provides vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, & other phytochemicals from natural, whole-food sources to promote nutritional balance.
• Supports healthy physical, mental, & emotional development.
• Supplies aggressive antioxidant protection to help maintain cellular health & stability.
• Assists with liver detoxification & promote the consistent removal of cellular debris.

Contents and Actions:

• Buckwheat Juice Powder - natural diuretic/stool softener; high in soluble fiber
• Barley Grass Juice Powder - promotes cleansing of the blood
• Brussels Sprout Powder - excellent source of natural fiber
• Kale Powder - supports digestive environment & gastric healing
• Alfalfa Sprout Powder - healthy digestion & metabolism

REFERENCES

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Purification - Background

Detoxification

As we move into Spring the thought of cleansing and detoxing comes to mind. What's involved, does it need to be hard, will I lose weight, were do I start and what do I do if it's not working for me......

Detoxification is the process in which the body eliminates or neutralizes toxic substances. Toxins come from various sources including the air, diet, drugs, alcohol, smoking, as well as metabolic by-products. Thus, lifestyle factors play a significant role in the accumulation of toxins. The build-up of toxins results in cellular damage, and eventually chronic disease.

A little back ground info. Cleansing and detoxes come in all size shapes and colors. Picking one that will work an cover all the bases and does no harm yet is easy to implement is no easy task.

Our General Dextoxification Systems
•Respiratory--lungs, bronchial tubes, throat, sinuses, and nose
•Gastrointestinal--liver, gallbladder, colon, and whole GI tract
•Urinary--kidneys, bladder, and urethra
•Skin and dermal--sweat and sebaceous glands and tears
•Lymphatic--lymph channels and lymph nodes

Among its many functions, the most important role of the liver is that of detoxification. The liver detoxifies harmful substances by a complex series of chemical reactions. The role of these various enzyme activities in the liver is to convert fat soluble toxins into water soluble substances that can be excreted in the urine or the bile depending on the particular characteristics of the end product.

When optimum nutrition is provided the liver operates efficiently. A great many people however, do not eat the right kinds of foods to provide the liver with everything it needs for the elimination of the extra toxins our bodies are exposed to on a daily basis. If nutrition is compromised through poor dietary and lifestyle habits, this will have implications on detoxification processes, and other organ functions will suffer as the body retains the toxins it cannot eliminate.

Detox Pathways and Support
The liver is the primary detoxification pathway responsible for processing all of the endogenous and exogenous chemicals within the body. Each minute, nearly one-third of the total body blood flow is pumped through the liver. The liver filters the blood and removes harmful substances such as drugs, bacteria, toxins and foreign proteins. There are two primary detoxification enzymatic pathways in the liver in which chemicals are eliminated or neutralized, known as Phase I and Phase II reactions.

Phase I
Phase I reactions primarily process chemicals to undergo phase II reactions. Phase I converts toxins via oxidative, hydrolytic and reductive reactions. The most common reactions are oxidation, utilizing the microsomal cytochrome P450 monooxygenase family of enzymes. The cytochrome (CYP) family of enzymes plays an important role in the detoxification of drugs, as well as drug interactions. The phase I metabolites are highly reactive and may cause damage if not properly removed from the body in phase II reactions.

Other nutrient cofactors required for cytochrome P450 reactions include riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, iron and certain phytonutrients such as indoles from cruciferous vegetables and quercetin have been shown to support Phase I detoxification.

Phase II
Phase II reactions involve several pathways in which molecules undergo conjugation in the liver. The substances being metabolized are attached to endogenous molecules such as acetate, glucuronate, glycine or sulfate to form water-soluble metabolites. These water-soluble metabolites are then excreted from the body in the urine or in the bile.

Other nutrients which play vital roles in the Phase II pathway include amino acids glycine, cysteine, glutamine, methionine, taurine, glutamic acid and aspartic acid. Glutamine plays a chief role in ammonia detoxification as well as helping to maintain mucosal integrity of the gastrointestinal tract.

Vitamins and minerals – particularly the B vitamins – play a major role, acting as cofactors for many enzyme systems including those of liver detoxification, therefore ensuring a plentiful supply of the B complex group of vitamins is of prime importance for optimum detoxification. Therefore, including plenty of whole grains which contain B vitamins in the diet as well as taking a Cataplex G complex supplement will aid the liver in this crucial role.

Supporting All Aspects of Detoxification
In order to optimize detoxification, nutrients, precursors and enzymatic cofactors must be constantly replenished and both phase I and phase II must be supported. Below are some processes involved in detoxification and the nutrients needed to support those processes.

Glucuronidation
Glucuronidation is a critical detoxification process where glucuronic acid is coupled (conjugated) with numerous drugs, hormones, bilirubin, pollutants and bile acids. The enzyme UDP-glucuronosyltransferase catalyzes this reaction while the enzyme beta-glucuronidase minimizes it. Research has shown that micro nutrients found in various fruits and vegetables including oranges, apples, grapefruit and cruciferous vegetables inhibit beta-glucuronidase, thereby supporting detoxification. Silymarin, a constituent of milk thistle, also inhibits the enzyme beta-glucuronidase. Elevated beta-glucuronidase activity is associated with an increased risk for various cancers, particularly hormone-dependent cancers such as breast, prostate and colon cancers.

Glutathione
Glutathione is an antioxidant compound synthesized from the precursor amino acids glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It is mainly involved in detoxification mechanisms of xenobiotics (foreign chemicals) and carcinogens through conjugation reactions via the enzyme glutathione transferase. Heavy metals such as mercury are removed from the body by conjugation with glutathione. Numerous substances have been shown to support glutathione levels in addition to the amino acid precursors including N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe), milk thistle and vitamin C complex. Increased free radical metabolite production during phase I reactions can result in depleted glutathione levels and glutathione conjugation in phase II detoxification.

Acetylation
Acetylation is a process in which toxins are conjugated by N-acetyltransferase with acetyl coenzyme A. This pathway is responsible for metabolizing numerous drugs and carcinogens. Variations in acetylation (“slow acetylators”) are associated with drug interactions such as reactions to sulfa drugs. Research suggests that Thiamine (vitamin B1), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and vitamin C (complex) support acetylation.

Amino-Acid Conjugation
Numerous amino acids such as arginine, glutamine, glycine, ornithine and taurine, are conjugated with toxins for neutralization. Most commonly, glycine is involved in phase II detoxification.

Methylation
Methylation is the addition of a methyl group to any substrate. Betaine is a primary methyl donor and requires adequate levels of Methionine, Choline, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid for synthesis. Methylation is important for the metabolism of several pharmaceuticals as well as neurotransmitters.

Sulfation and Sulfoxidation
The addition of a sulfur-containing compound by sulfur transferases is used to eliminate hormones, neurotransmitters and numerous medications including acetaminophen. The amino acids methionine and cysteine are important sources of inorganic sulfate. Sulfation is also an important detoxification pathway of bile acids resulting in increased bile acid solubility, decreased intestinal absorption, and enhanced fecal and urinary excretion. Additionally, bile acid-sulfates are also less toxic than their un-sulfated counterparts. The enzyme sulfite oxidase transforms sulfites to sulfate to promote detoxification by sulfoxidation. Molybdenum is a cofactor for sulfite oxidase and thus required for optimal detoxification. Sulfites are used as a preservative and are found in many processed foods, wine and some medications.

Next ......................Standard Process Purification Program: 21 Days