Report: Homocysteine – The Health

Risk Factor You’ve Never Heard Of

Fluoride Destroys Tooth

Enamel: Chemistry Prof

Planetary Formulas Kids Immune Protect Liquid 4 fl oz PW-063 

Description: Kids' Immune Protect helps boost resistance at the start of winter and is especially helpful for back-to-school challenges.This great-tasting liquid is based on a classic Chinese formula featuring astragalus, which has been shown in research to support immune defense. The Inside Scoop: Supports Immune Defenses Ingredient Details: Serving Size: 1 ml. Proprietary Extract Blend: Astragalus Root (Premium Grade), Bai-Zhu Atractylodes Rhizome, and Siler Root. 1 ml Other Ingredients: glycerin, purified water, natural orange flavor, potassium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and citric acid. Suggested Use: 35 drops (1 ml) twice daily between meals, or as recommended by your health care professional.  Warnings: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease

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  New Chapter Probiotic Immune Support 90 Vcaps NJ-038

Garden of Life Seasonal Relief, 63 caplet, Formula 

Potentiating Health and the Crisis of the Immune System: Integrative Approaches to the Prevention and Treatment of Modern Diseases  

  Prickly Pear Cactus Medicine: Treatments for Diabetes, Cholesterol, and the Immune System

HEALTH“ A comprehensive and detailed review of the benefits of this remarkable plant and a compelling argument for its acceptance into modern herbalism.” Mark Blumenthal, executive director of the American Botanical Council and editor of HerbalGram“ An excellent blend of good science and real life applications.” David Hoffmann, FNIMH, AHG, author of Medical Herbalism and The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal“ Ran Knishinsky has done a masterful job unearthing details on the use of the prickly pear cactus for food and for medicine. This book provides the spark to move the prickly pear from beyond ethnic use to mainstream acceptance.” David Winston, AHG, dean of the Herbal Therapeutics School of Botanical MedicineThe prickly pear cactus--a plant that has the distinction of being a vegetable, fruit, and flower all in one--may be destined to be the next big herbal superstar, following in the footsteps of St. John’ s wort and Echinacea. One of the driving forces behind its popularity is that each part of this plant functions as both food and medicine. It has been a staple in the diets of the people of the southwestern portion of the United States, the Middle East, parts of Europe and Africa, and Central and South America for hundreds of years.Traditionally, the prickly pear cactus has been used as a panacea for over 100 different ailments. Its use in the treatment of diabetes is now gaining attention in scientific circles, and it has been the subject of blood cholesterol research trials sponsored by the American Heart Association. In addition to the results of recent scientific research, Knishinsky also includes ethnobotanical information on the use ofprickly pear cactus in treating obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, and skin ailments. A resource section details the natural food companies that supply prickly pear cactus and a chapter of recipes offers twenty-four traditional and modern dishes using the pads and fruit of the cactus.RAN KNISHINSKY is a professional health researcher and writer and is the founder of NutraConsulting, a consulting firm to the natural products industry. He frequently appears on radio and is the author of The Clay Cure and The Prozac Alternative.

A Homeopathic Handbook of Natural Remedies 

A Drug-Free Approach to Asperger Syndrome and Autism: Homeopathic Care for Exceptional Kids

This groundbreaking new book from the authors of the bestselling Ritalin Free Kids documents a safe, effective, and natural treatment for children with Asperger Syndrome and Autism

  New Scientifically Advanced Immune Formula!
Promote immune system health! It is more critical now than ever to give your body the right nutrients to support your immune system. ISD-10 is a complete proprietary complex with ten potent ingredients. All natural, ISD-10 is a one-of-a-kind, cutting edge, formula backed by years of scientific and clinical research.

Primary Ingredients

Androgaphis: Used in Sweden as a primary herb during the winter season.

Arabinogalactan: Enhances the immune system by supporting the activity of macrophages (white blood cells).

Beta Glucan: It is common knowledge within the medical community that beta glucan is the most powerful natural immune nutrient.

TMG: Protects your body from the build up of toxins.

Colostrum: This power supplement contains an abundance of biologically active compounds including immunoglobulins, a natural immune factor.

Secondary Ingredients

Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Known as the “Universal Antioxidant”. Helps promote immune health by its ability to rejuvenate other antioxidants and produce energy at the cellular level to help fight free radicals in the body.

Selenium: The antioxidant properties help fight premature cell aging from free radicals.

Elderberry: Contains powerful antioxidant properties .

Bioperine: This patented formula is clinically proven to increase the body's ability to absorb nutrients.

Folic Acid: An essential vitamin for the production of the building blocks of the body. It plays a crucial role in the health of red blood and immune cells.

Vitamin B-12: Vital for the function and maintenance of the nervous system, red blood cells and overall growth of the body's cells.

Natrol My Defense Immune Support, 75 capsule, Formula

  Why does Magic Johnson use Natrol My Defense® I use it because it promotes healthy immune function and offers every day immune enhancement. My Defense® features ImmunEnhancer™ arabinogalactan a natural ingredient that studies show promotes healthy function of immune cells, as well as Ester-C®, a nutrient important for immune health. Use My Defense® every day. I do. Earvin Magic Johnson. Natrol My Defense® starts with ImmunEnhancer™ Arabinogalactan, a larch tree extract; research suggests this natural compound supports the activity of macrophages (white blood cells). Also added are Vitamin C, a nutrient important for immune function, and extracts from cranberry and papaya.* Natrol My Defense® is a comprehensive formula that not only supports the immune system but also increases healthy gut microflora. This formula promotes a healthy immune system by supporting the function of important white blood cells, protecting against cellular damage, and introducing a beneficial enzyme. It also contains a concentrated form of one of the polysaccharides that contribute to immune enhancement.*

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

Moducare, 90 vegicap, Formula  Moducare is the only formula that offers sterols and sterolins in the correct ratio of 100:1, which has been shown to balance and improve immune system functioning. Sterols and sterolins are natural plant nutrients that help the immune system to regulate itself: "upregulating" or boosting an under active response and "downregulating" an overactive one. Sterol is a plant fat found in all plant-based foods. Sterolin is its glucoside, a molecular structure joined to the sterol. Sterolin is easily destroyed, and without it, the sterol does not have the same immune-enhancing benefits. Moducare uses a proprietary process to preserve the ideal combination of sterols and sterolins. The sterols and sterolins in this formula are extracted from pine but there is none of the original plant in the final product. Only the plant fat molecules are extracted with no trace of the existing plant source to ensure that it is hypoallergenic. This daily supplement has been used extensively to support prostate and joint health, to promote a healthy inflammatory response, and to boost immune strength.   Source Naturals Wellness Transfer Factor, 30 capsule, Formula Source Naturals Wellness Transfer Factor is a technologically advanced approach to immune system integrity. Wellness Transfer Factor is a highly purified constituent of bovine colostrum. Transfer factors are chemical messengers that enhance immune system response. This ability to respond can be transferred from one organism to another, and from one species to another.     Doctor's Trust Super Strength for Immunity, 120 tablet, Formula We call this line of Doctor's Trust supplements Super Strength for a reason--we bring you the most important ingredients at the most requested potencies to protect your health. Our Immunity formula blends the remarkable newborn-protecting pre-milk nutrient called Colostrum with IP6, the powerful antioxidant found in cereal grains and legumes that helps protect against cellular damage. For more protective power we add a blend of three important "medicinal" mushrooms and Green Tea Extract. Get powerful immune protection with just two tablets daily!     Longjiang River Luo Han Kuo Natural Flavor, 20 packet, Formula Luo Han Kuo is an all-natural Chinese herbal supplement that promotes general, respiratory, and immune health. Luo Han Kuo is high in antioxidants. It is a natural expectorant and is a low glycemic product and contains no added sugar or preservatives. Luo Han Kuo, with its dark amber color and rich flavor, is an ideal way to pursue good health and well being. Luo Han Kuo is a plant in the Curcurbitaceae (scientific name) family, along with other vines that produce melons, squash, gourds, and cucumbers. Longjiang River's initial product line in the United States features the highly prized, Precious Fruit of Longevity , Luo Han Kuo (LHK). Quantum Super Immune+ 90 vegetarian caps QT-034 Description: The caplets will bolster the immune factors so important for control and prevention. Those with occasional problems may use the caplets with the ointment when experiencing an outbreak in order to hurry healing. For long term management or severe circumstances, many use the Super Lysine Plus+ Caplets on a daily basis. Ingredient Details: Three Caplets Contains: L-lysine 1500mg, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 100mg, Garlic (odorless) 200mg, Echinacea Extract (4:l PE) 100mg, Propolis 50mg, Licorice Extract (4:1 PE) 15mg, Goldenseal Root USP (Hydrastis) 15mg. Warnings: Keep out of reach of children. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.        '       Our Homeopathic-Style Toothpastes are formulated for people who are supporting their own health care regimen with homeopathic remedies, and are in need of a toothpaste that does not interfere with their program. Our Homeopathic-Style Toothpastes clean teeth, leaving you with a healthy-feeling mouth, but do not contain strong flavors like mint or camphor, making them suitable for those who need a toothpaste that will not irritate or over-stimulate the mouth. Available in Unflavored with Baking Soda and Apricot Whitening.                KEEP YOUR PETS HEALTHY TOO!        Ear Relief Homeopathic Medicine 1 fl oz (with dropper): K Keeping your dog's or cat's ears clean is a common chore faced by every pet owner. Now, effective and natural help is available in the form of Ear Relief, a homeopathic medicine from Dr. Goodpet Laboratories. Ear Relief is a natural remedy specifically formulated to help keep the ear canal clean and reduce ear odor, ear wax, and dirt. It is simple to administer. You fill the ear canal with the medicine, using the handy dropper cap. The procedure can be performed twice a month for good ear maintenance or more often if necessary.    Smoking Withdrawal Homeopathic Remedy 90 tablets Homeopathic Medicine is a safe treatment alternative for most minor ailments. Symptom relief is attained through stimulation of the natural healing process. Precise levels of homeopathic ingredients work safely and without side effects. Smoking Withdrawal is a non-addictive homeopathic combination to help relieve symptoms of withdrawal from those who have quit smoking. All natural ingredients. No alcohol, side effects, drowsiness. Advanced formulations. Relieves cravings, nervous tension, irritability and helps detoxify     Homocysteine – The Health Risk Factor You’ve Never Heard Of by Thaddeus Owen, March 20, 2006 NU 402 Nutritional Therapies NU 402 Project Could you be at risk for heart disease, even though you have low cholesterol? Did you know there is an indicator that is easily tested for that can show your level of risk for over 50 diseases? Studies have shown that high blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine increase the risk for “over 50 diseases including heart attacks, strokes, cancer, diabetes, depression, and Alzheimer’s” (Holford, 2004, p. 137). In a clinical article by Coffey, Crowder, and Cheek (2000), elevated homocysteine levels have been shown to increase the risk for blood clotting in arteries and are the best and most modifiable predictor of cardiovascular caused morbidity and mortality. Lipski (2005) discusses the link between schizophrenia and scleroderma and high homocysteine levels.   What is Homocysteine? Homocysteine is a sulfur containing amino acid in the blood which is considered toxic and highly reactive. It is produced in the body from the breakdown of methionine (an amino acid derived from our diet) in the liver. In an ideal environment, homocysteine is only an intermediary.  The normal body function is to convert methionine to cysteine. Homocysteine is produced during this process and then converted to SAMe or Glutathione, which are both of great benefit to our bodies.             SAMe, which is sold as a supplement to help depression and arthritis, is involved in the methylation of numerous proteins, phospholipids, neurotransmitters and other neurochemicals. Methylation simply means the addition of methyl groups onto a substance. Methylation is extremely important in helping the body to maintain homeostasis, the delicate balance that keeps the body functioning in an optimal state. Methylation can make substances in the body more harmful or less harmful. For example, by the subtraction of a methyl group, epinephrine (responsible for putting the body in a state of stress) becomes norepinephrine (which helps the body to relax).             Glutathione, the other product of homocysteine, is an important antioxidant that is responsible for cleaning up free radicals and detoxifying the body by neutralizing toxic substances.             SAMe and Glutathione, to be produced from homocysteine, require enzymes that rely on adequate amounts of the B vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folic acid. What Causes High Homocysteine? In an optimally functioning body, homocysteine levels are kept low, because homocysteine is converted to SAMe and Glutathione. The trouble begins when homocysteine is not converted to SAMe and Glutathione instead becomes elevated in the blood. High blood levels of homocysteine are associated with heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, strokes and diabetes.  If the vitamins that convert homocysteine to its beneficial end products are deficient or if you have a genetic mutation that predisposes you to high homocysteine, levels of homocysteine in the blood can rise.             Holford lists the following risk factors for high homocysteine: t      Family history of heart disease, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, or diabetes. t      Folate intake < 900mcg per day t      Increasing Age t      Male sex t      Estrogen deficiency t      Excess alcohol, coffee, or tea t      Smoking t      Lack of Exercise t      Hostility and Repressed anger t      Inflammatory Bowel Disease t      H-pylori generated ulcers t      Pregnancy t      Being a strict vegetarian or vegan t      High fat diet with excess red meat t      High fat dairy intake t      High salt intake What is High? What is considered a high level of homocysteine? This varies according to the source, however most sources seem to agree that homocysteine levels of 6mmol/L or less are considered ideal and anything above this is considered a risk for disease (Holford, 2004).   To find out your homocysteine level, a blood sample is taken, and many times requires only a finger prick. This test can be performed by your doctor or done by you at home and sent to an outside testing laboratory. An online search for “homocysteine testing” will bring up numerous laboratories that will perform this service.    How Can Homocysteine Levels Be Reduced? The great news is that homocysteine levels can be reduced and reduced rather quickly, in as little as three weeks (Holford 2004), by supplementation and by diet. Increasing the intake of vitamins B6, B12, folic acid, TMG (Trimethyl Glycine) and zinc has been shown to help lower homocysteine. These are the critical nutrients needed to convert homocysteine to SAMe and Glutathione. Holford also suggests eating less meat and more fish and vegetable protein such as beans and soy.  He also suggests having a minimum of 5 servings of fruit and vegetables daily along with eating a clove of garlic, or taking a garlic supplement. Holford suggests supplementing a multivitamin and reducing salt, alcohol, tea, and coffee intake.   Recommended Supplementation Holford lists the following supplement regimen for lowering homocysteine: Vitamin Supplement Homocysteine Below 6 Homocysteine 6-9 Homocysteine 10-15 Homocysteine Above 15 Folic Acid 200 mcg 400 mcg 1,200 mcg 2,000 mcg B12 10 mcg 500 mcg 1,000 mcg 1,500 mcg B6 25 mg 50 mg 75 mg 100 mg B2 10 mg 15 mg 20 mg 50 mg Zinc 5 mg 10 mg 15 mg 20 mg TMG 500 mg 750 mg 1.5-3 g 3-6g  Lower Homocysteine and Keep it Low  Lowering homocysteine and keeping it low involves both lifestyle and dietary changes. Making these changes are important, even if you don’t know your homocysteine score, because the approaches are not only recommended for lowering homocysteine, but also recommended for a healthier and longer life.             The best approach to lowering homocysteine, according to Holford and Lipski includes: supplementing with a multivitamin, zinc, TMG, and the B vitamins as outlined above; eating a diet that contains an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables and substituting soy and beans for meats whenever possible; avoiding smoke, processed foods, and limiting alcohol and salt intake; cutting back on tea and coffee and eating a clove of garlic daily. Stress reduction has also been shown to play an important role in healthy aging and the addition of meditation, yoga or any other stress reduction tool has been shown to be of great value. References Chrichton, Michael, "This Essay Breaks the Law", The New York Times, The New York     Times Company, March 19, 2006. URL accessed on March 20, 2006. Cheek, D., Coffey, M., Crowder, G. (2000). Reducing Coronary Artery Disease by           Decreasing Homocysteine Levels. Retrieved March 21, 2006, from        http://ccn.aacnjournals.org/cgi/content/full/23/1/25. Holford, P. (2004). The Optimum Nutrition Bible. Berkely: The Crossing Press. Lipski, E. (2005). Digestive Wellness.  New York: McGraw Hill. Venes, D. (Ed). (2005).Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.