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#Post#: 582--------------------------------------------------
MSM
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:33 pm
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MSM
MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) hit the market as a multi level
marketing (MLM) product about 10 years ago. As with other MLM
products, it was promoted with a lot of hype and misinformation.
What are the facts behind MSM?
MSM contains 34% sulfur by weight. Elemental sulfur is produced
as the MSM is metabolized.
Commercial MSM is not natural. I had an MLM saleslady actually
tell me that MSM was natural because it was derived from trees.
This is really stretching it. MSM is created by the heating of
the industrial solvent DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide). When DMSO is
heated an oxygen atom attaches forming DMSO2, which is also
known as MSM. DMSO is actually a byproduct of the paper
industry, but this does not make DMSO natural either. Many
plastics are synthesized from natural compounds, but this does
not make plastics natural. When a chemical is altered by man to
make a new chemical then the new chemical is not natural, it is
synthetic.
Sulfur is essential to the body, although deficiencies are
almost unheard of. Sulfur is found in numerous foods we eat
including garlic, onions, peppers, broccoli, beans, seaweeds,
etc.
Sulfur is used in the production of proteins and hormones. For
example, sulfur aids in the formation of the proteins collagen,
elastin, and keratin. Collagen gives connective tissues
strength, while elastin gives the tissues their elasticity.
Keratin is the primary protein founding hair and nails.
Therefore, sulfur aids in the growth of hair and nails. It is
commonly thought that sulfur aids in strengthening the hair and
nails, though silica, in the form of orthosilicic acid, is the
primary compound that strengthens the hair and nails. The
hormone Insulin requires sulfur for its production. Insulin is
required for the regulation of blood sugar and the transport of
vitamin C to immune cells. Sulfur compounds also aid in the
detoxification of the body.
#Post#: 583--------------------------------------------------
NSAID
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:39 pm
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NSAIDs
The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Celebrex and
Vioxx have recently come under fire when it was admitted that
these drugs could significantly increase the risk of heart
attack and stroke. Are these the only NSAIDs capable of
increasing this risk though?
Many heart disturbances, including heart attack, result from
decreased blood flow to the heart. Common causes of decreased
blood flow include arterial plaque formation, blood clots, and
narrowing of the arteries from muscular contraction of the blood
vessels.
Arterial plaque formation starts with damage to the blood vessel
walls. This leads to depositing of cholesterol and calcium on
the arterial walls. One of the most common causes of the
arterial damage is high blood pressure caused from constriction
of blood vessels. Various factors may lead to blood vessel
constriction. These include elevated serum calcium, elevated
insulin levels in type 2 diabetes, and epinephrine (adrenaline)
induced constriction. NSAIDs constrict blood vessels as well,
which leads to an elevation of blood pressure. Increased blood
pressure may result in narrowing of the arteries from plaque due
to resulting arterial damage. This narrowing of the arteries not
only increases the risk of heart attack, but also of thrombic
and embolytic stroke.
Because NSAIDs constrict blood vessels, these drugs increase the
risk of angina, heart arrhythmias, and heart attack in people
with already impaired perfusion to the heart. These include
individuals with previous angina, or heart attacks, history of
congestive heart failure, diabetics, and individuals who tend to
put out too much epinephrine, etc.
Further risk comes from the fact that NSAIDs inhibit
prostaglandins, including prostacyclin, also known as
prostaglandin I2 (PGI2). PGI2 is produced by healthy endothelial
cells of blood vessels. The roles of PGI2 are to dilate blood
vessels, to increase blood flow, and to inhibit platelet
formation and blood clot formation. By dilating blood vessels,
blood pressure is reduced, and more blood reaches critical
areas, such as the brain and heart. This also lowers the risk of
heart disease by reducing arterial damage, which would otherwise
lead to plaque formation. By reducing blood clot formation, the
risk of heart attack and thrombic stroke are reduced. Both
damage to endothelial cells and the use of NSAIDs inhibit PGI2
production, which increases blood clot formation and reduces
blood flow. Production of blood clots and reduction of blood
flow increase the risk of angina, arrhythmias, and heart attack,
as well as transient ishemic attacks, and thrombic stroke.
As we can see, the increased risk of heart attack and stroke are
not limited to certain NSAIDs, but rather can occur with all
pharmaceutical NSAIDs. And the problem is not a new finding. The
blood vessel constricting effects of NSAIDs have been known for
decades. Part of the drug approval process includes knowing how
the drug works. NSAIDs are known, and have been known, to work
by consticting blood vessels. When blood vessels are overdilated
by inflamamtory prostaglandins, they become permeable, which
leads to leakage of fluids in to the surounding tissues, and
resulting inflammation. By consticting blood vessels, NSAIDs
prevent blood vessels from leaking. It is well known that the
adverse effects of liver and kidney failure by NSAIDs is due to
impeded blood flow to these organs due to this constiction of
the blood vessels. Other organs, such as the heart, as well as
glands are adversely affected by the impeded blood flow in the
same manner. Therefore, the only explanation for the increased
risk of heart attack and stroke being "discovered" recently
would be that the drug companies and FDA knew about the problem
all along and just recently decided to make this known fact
public.
Part 2
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used
as pain relievers for inflammatory conditions. These drugs
include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), naproxen, (Aleve),
aspirin, rofecoxib (Vioxx), and celecoxib (Celebrex). Although,
the pain relieving effects come with some potentially dangerous,
and possibly deadly side effects.
NSAIDs work by inhibiting hormones, known as prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins serve numerous functions within the body
including regulating blood pressure, antidepressant, protecting
the stomach from acid, etc. Inflammatory prostaglandins are
essential for increasing blood flow to injured areas, which
promotes healing by increasing oxygen and nutrient levels to the
injured site. Prostaglandins do this by dilating the blood
vessels. The inflammation occurs when the blood vessels are
dilated, which causes the blood vessels to become permeable.
This permeability causes the small blood vessels to leak fluid
in to the surrounding tissues, which leads to the swelling.
NSAIDs decrease the pain and swelling by countering these
inflammatory prostaglandins. This causes the blood vessels to
constrict, thereby reducing leakage of capillaries.
By reducing blood flow, NSAIDs actually inhibit the healing
process. Although this is one of the more mild side effects of
these drugs. Other side effects of NSAIDs include, but are not
limited to, liver failure, kidney failure, aseptic meningitis,
loss of vision, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), high blood
pressure, depression, and bleeding ulcers.
The most common side effect is bleeding ulcers, which leads to
the majority of the over 16,000 deaths annually from these
drugs. These ulcerations occur from the inhibition of another
prostaglandin required to form the protective mucous lining of
the stomach. This mucous coating protects the stomach wall from
stomach acid. By inhibiting the formation of the protective
stomach lining, the stomach wall is prone to direct attack from
the stomach acid, leading to ulceration of the stomach wall and
internal bleeding.
Constriction of blood flow leads to elevation of blood pressure.
Loss of vision and tinnitus occur from reduced blood flow to the
eye and in the area of the neck, due to the blood vessel
constriction.
Prostaglandins play a major role in mood. By countering
prostaglandins, the use of NSAIDs will cause depression.
Kidney and liver failure occur from a lack of blood flow to
these organs. In fact, 2 dozen people died from ibuprofen
induced hepatitis during clinical trials. People with poor
perfusion to the organs, such as those with congestive heart
failure, diabetes, Raynaud's, etc. are at a higher risk for the
damage or organ failure since blood flow is already reduced in
these individuals. Further constriction of the blood vessels by
NSAIDs may completely cut off the blood supply to organs and
glands leading to damage or complete failure.
Contrary to popular belief, it does not take long term use or
overdose to cause organ failure. In fact a single, recommended,
dose can cause sufficient constriction of the blood vessels to
cause damage. I know of 4 people that developed kidney failure
after taking a single recommended dose of ibuprofen. And the
number of cases is most likely heavily underreported since
adverse effects of drugs are commonly attributed to other
disorders.
The NSAID Bextra, manufactured by the pharmaceutical company
Pfizer, was approved by the FDA in November of 2001. Bextra was
later recalled after it was revealed that the drug could cause
potentially deadly allergic reactions, and the disorders
Steven's-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
The new proposals for warning labels on these drugs need to
include the risk of adverse effects from recommended use as
well. Not only long term use and overdose as is currently being
recommended.
A few other recommendations that I feel should be implemented
include:
Pulling NSAIDs off the market as was done with Bextra since the
safety studies were either never done, or were suppressed by the
drug companies, or ignored by the FDA, to get approval.
Requiring more evidence of safety before approving these drugs.
Charging pharmaceutical drug company executives, and FDA
officials, with manslaughter when it is shown that side effects
were hidden to gain approval, and it has resulted in deaths.
Right now only pharmaceutical companies are held liable.
Although only by civil liability, not criminal. Fines are
sometimes imposed against pharmaceutical companies, although
they are hardly punishment. Fines are generally around a million
dollars, or slightly higher when the drug companies have made
hundreds of millions or even billons of dollars in profits. This
is hardly punishment, and encourages the drug companies to hide
adverse effects since profits will far outweigh any liabilities.
Heavier civil penalties against the drug companies to actually
punish them for deliberately hiding known side effects, and for
manipulating research to make their drugs appear safe and
effective
Civil lawsuits should not only include the drug companies, but
also the FDA officials who receive gifts, payoffs, and jobs to
push the drugs through the approval process.
Cracking down on illegal investments by FDA officials in to the
drug companies they regulate. This is a violation of insider
trading laws. Despite this, nothing has been done to correct
this illegal activity within the FDA despite the illegal
investments being reported for nearly 3 decades.
Faster action on pulling drugs from the market suspected of
causing harm until safety of the drugs can be established.
Testing of drugs by independent testing agencies. Currently the
FDA requires the drug companies to provide their own safety data
to obtain approval. If the drug company has already invested
millions of dollars in to the drug, and a safety issue appears
the drug company is not going to reveal the safety issue and
risk approval being denied. This is a major reason drugs are
being approved, then being pulled several years later, after the
drug companies have not only paid for the cost of approval, but
have also paid stockholders and made millions of dollars or more
in profits.
Drugs requiring a prescription when they are originally approved
should remain only available by prescription. They should not be
made available over the counter when the drug's patent expires.
The chemistry, or dangers, of the drug do not change just
because the patent has expired on the drug.
#Post#: 584--------------------------------------------------
POLYHEME
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:43 pm
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PolyHeme
Is it ethical to test people with experimental treatments
without their knowledge or permission? This is what is in
question after the FDA approved the testing of an artificial
blood substitute, known as PolyHeme.
PolyHeme is a synthetic blood substitute derived from outdated,
donated, human blood. Unlike human blood though, PolyHeme does
not require blood typing or refrigeration. Another advantage of
PolyHeme is that it can carry oxygen to the tissues, unlike
blood volume expanders like normal saline. Shelf life is another
advantage of the blood substitute. PolyHeme has a shelf life of
12 months, compared to real blood, which has a shelf life of
about 42 days.
There are some serious safety issues with PolyHeme though. The
first study of PolyHeme was started in 1998 and continued to the
year 2000. In this study consent was obtained from patients as
is required by law. The patients all had aneurysm surgery of the
heart arteries. Ten of the 81 patients receiving the blood
substitute died within a week, while none of the 71 patients
receiving real blood suffered any heart attacks. This study was
not only halted early because of the deaths, but the company who
manufactures PolyHeme withheld the fact that people died during
the study from the public.
In their most current study, Northfield Laboratories, the maker
of PolyHeme, conducted a second study on over 700 patients,
without their consent. Some patients receive PolyHeme alone,
others received PolyHeme then saline, and the remainder received
saline and blood. The study was conducted in various cities
throughout the U.S. The FDA approved the testing without consent
based on the 1996 Federal regulation CFR 50.24 waiver of
informed consent.
The study started with a total of 722 patients. A total of 126
patients were dropped from the study due to what they called
“protocol violations”. This includes patients that were too
young, or they were excluded for other reasons. Other parameters
that excluded patients included patients who have sustained
unsurvivable injuries, have severe head injury, are pregnant,
have cardiac arrest, or have objected to the study. Out of the
remaining 586 patients, 279 were in the group receiving PolyHeme
and 307 patients were controls. Incidences of death were higher
in each of the groups receiving PolyHeme, compared to each of
the control groups. Although, Northfield Laboratories claims
that the difference in the number of deaths was not significant.
Northfield Laboratories tried to get FDA approval based on
previous studies of trauma patients. The other patients they
were comparing had not had blood though. They were trauma
patients that had not received blood because of religious
beliefs.
In August of 2006, Northfield Laboratories tried to get
accelerated approval for PolyHeme. The request was declined by
the FDA until further study results come in. I guess they were
in a rush since they signed a $6.7 million agreement on June
16th, 2006 to purchase a 106,000 square foot property that they
intend to use to manufacture their product. This is really
putting the cart before the horse since they don’t have approval
for their blood substitute, nor is there any guarantee of
approval.
This brings up the question of how far will Northfield
Laboratories go to get their blood substitute approved to avoid
losing their investment, and the money of their investors? After
all, this has been a costly venture. Not only have they spent
$6.7 million for the building they intend to manufacture their
product in, but they are also paying the hospitals $10,000 for
each patient they test the blood substitute on. Tack on to that
other research and development costs, manufacturing equipment
costs, and other expenses.
Pursuant to CFR 50.24 certain criteria must be met in order for
testing to be performed on patients without their consent. For
example, section (2) (ii) states “Appropriate animal and other
preclinical studies have been conducted, and the information
derived from those studies and related evidence support the
potential for the intervention to provide a direct benefit to
the individual subjects”. So where are these previous animal or
preclinical studies? The only study was halted early after a
significant increase in deaths in patients receiving PolyHeme.
Section (2) (iii) states “Risks associated with the
investigation are reasonable in relation to what is known about
the medical condition of the potential class of subjects, the
risks and benefits of standard therapy, if any, and what is
known about the risks and benefits of the proposed intervention
or activity.” Again, the only clinical study was halted early
because of a disproportionate death rate between those receiving
PolyHeme, and those that did not. This is hardly reasonable,
when standard therapy has been shown to be considerably safer
and effective.
The regulation also requires that they try to gain consent prior
to, or as soon as possible from a legal representative, such as
a relative. From what I have seen, I don’t think this is being
done. For instance, if a married couple is in an accident, and
only one has sufficient trauma to require blood, are they
obtaining consent from the spouse? It does not appear that they
are. Instead, saline or PolyHeme were not chosen for the patient
until the patient was on the way to the hospital. And according
to news reports, the decision was based on sealed envelopes the
paramedics opened in route to determine what treatment the
patient would be given. Such a practice would prohibit the
paramedics from explaining the risks and benefits to the spouse
to allow them to make an informed decision, or give time to
obtain consent even if the spouse was aware of the risks. If no
legal representative can be found, then the company must provide
proof of attempts to contact a legal representative.
Section (7) (ii) states “ Public disclosure to the communities
in which the clinical investigation will be conducted and from
which the subjects will be drawn, prior to initiation of the
clinical investigation, of plans for the investigation and its
risks and expected benefits”.
The first problem with this is that Northfield Laboratories did
not disclose the adverse effects of their product found in the
1998 study. In fact they threatened to sue the group that made
the fact public claiming that the adverse effects, which
included death, were part of their trade secret. I also see a
problem with this regulation by the fact that everyone will not
be aware of the study since not everyone follows, or has access,
to the media. For example, the homeless would not likely know
about the study, and therefore there will be no disclosure, as
is required, to certain groups. Even though people in these
groups may be subjected to the study. The law does allow life
saving measures in people unable to give consent, such as
unconscious patients. This is called implied consent. For
instance, if a person tries to overdose on drugs to commit
suicide and they refuse treatment, the paramedics cannot touch
the patient. Once they pass out they can claim implied consent
and start treatment. The basis is that the person, if they were
conscious and able to give consent, would give consent to save
their life. Does this apply to unapproved and untested drugs
like PolyHeme though? I doubt if such an argument would hold up.
A person would probably give consent if they knew, or had reason
to believe, that the drug or treatment had been thoroughly
tested and was an approved treatment. A reasonable person is not
likely going to consent to an unproven, and potentially
dangerous unapproved drug or treatment. Especially when safer
and proven therapies exist. Northfield Laboratories claims to
have followed CFR 50.24 explicitly. I disagree, based on the
facts that they never completed previous trials, their product
has a higher death rate than controls and those receiving blood,
they have not informed the public of their testing, or the
possible dangers of the therapy, and I don’t see any evidence
that they are really trying to obtain consent as is required by
law.
Patients were allowed to opt out of the test in case they
suffered a severe trauma that would leave them unable to give
consent. To do so though they had to obtain a blue plastic
bracelet from the company that they had to be wearing at the
time paramedics arrived. In order to get the bracelet the person
would first have to be aware of the test. Many people were not
aware that the test was going on until testing had almost been
completed. And as previously pointed out, people that did not
follow the media, or who had no access to the media, would have
still been uninformed about the testing. The same could apply to
those who do not speak English. Even if the story came on the TV
news, it does not mean they would understand what the test was
about, or how to opt out.
So what are the potential side effects of PolyHeme? Previous
hemoglobin products have all been shown to cause kidney damage,
liver damage, high blood pressure, and inflammation of the
arteries. There is also concern that allergic reactions may
occur. Northfield Laboratories claims that these adverse effects
are not possible, and their product is safe. Other researchers
disagree. And Northfield Laboratories has not had the greatest
track record of being honest to the public about the safety
record of their product. For instance when they tried to
suppress the fact that 10 patients died within one week of
receiving their product, and no patients receiving real blood
died. And this study was halted early. Would more deaths have
occurred if the study had continued its full duration? Other
adverse affects reported by the use of PolyHeme were significant
increases in the rate of heart attacks, arrhythmias, and
pneumonia.
A list of hospitals that used it is at
HTML http://web.archive.org/web/20210505125624/http://medcapsules.com/info/PolyHeme.htm
#Post#: 585--------------------------------------------------
ROGAINE
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:44 pm
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Rogaine
Male pattern baldness (MPB) is characterized by the loss of hair
primarily in the areas of the temples, and the top of the head.
A more radical form of testosterone, known as
dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the trigger for MPB. DHT kills the
hair follicles, which causes the hair to fall out. The temples
and the top of the head are the primary targets for DHT because
DHT receptors are concentrated in these areas.
The drug minoxidil, sold under the name Rogaine, was originally
being tested as a treatment for high blood pressure. The drug
works by dilating blood vessels. A noted side effect of the drug
was increased hair growth in some of the test subjects.
Therefore, minoxidil was then marketed as a hair loss remedy for
both men and women.
Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles.
It does have some serious side effects though, including liver
damage.
Increasing blood flow to the scalp to assist hair growth is
hardly a new idea. People have long used irritating herbs, such
as cayenne pepper, to stimulate circulation to the hair
follicles. Brushing the hair, preferably with a boar bristle, or
wood, brush also does a good job of stimulating scalp
circulation. Scalp massage is probably the easiest method to
stimulate blood flow to the follicles. Not only does it feel
great, but it is free, and it does not damage the liver.
Keep in mind though that if the hair follicle is dead that
increasing blood flow to the scalp will not bring it back to
life. If there are still fine, living hairs present, then there
is a chance to regrow the hair.
#Post#: 586--------------------------------------------------
SILICA DEFICIENCY
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:46 pm
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The Importance of Silica In the Human Body; Diatomaceous Earth
Silicon dioxide (SiO2), commonly known as silica, is one of the
most common compounds on earth. The best known forms of silica
are sand, quartz, and glass.
Silica is essential to both plants and animals for integrity of
their tissues. Although, silica must first be converted in to
another compound, known as orthosilicic acid (Si(OH)4), before
it can be utilized in humans.
Orthosilicic acid is formed in nature as silica is dissolved by
water. Though, silica is poorly dissolved by water generally.
The presence of acid increases the conversion of silica in to
orthosilicic acid. In the human body, this acid is provided by
the stomach. When silica is ingested from water or plant
sources, stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) aids in the conversion
of the silica in to orthosilicic acid. As we age though, stomach
acid levels decline, leading to declining silica levels in the
tissues. Antacids and acid blockers also decrease tissue silica
levels for the same reason.
Silica is essential for the formation of the proteins collagen
and elastin. Collagen gives tissues strength, while elastin
gives tissues elasticity. As levels of collagen and elastin
decline, various disorders may occur. These include:
Osteoporosis- Silica is a piezoelectric material that generates
electricity under pressure. When the collagen matrix is
stressed, which applies pressure on the silica molecules, an
electrical current is generated that electrodeposits minerals in
to the collagen matrix. This allows bone to gain density. As a
component of collagen and elastin, silica also aids in giving
bone its flexibility, and therefore much of bone's strength and
shock absorption. Without silica, the bones would be unable to
mineralize, and even if the bone could mineralize it would
easily fracture like a piece of chalk. Silica aids in the
absorption of calcium, and displaces the heavy metal lead, which
is detrimental to bone. Although calcium is better known as an
important nutrient for bones, silica is actually the most
important nutrient for proper bone health and strength.
Decreased silica levels leads to poor bone mineral deposition in
bones, and loss of flexibility and shock absorption, increasing
the risk of fracture.
Osteoarthritis (joint inflammation)- Silica is essential for the
formation of cartilage, and its strength. Declining levels of
silica lead to softening of cartilage, and increased risk of
damage or deterioration to spinal discs and joint cartilage. In
addition, silica has mild natural anti-inflammatory properties,
which further helps prevent cartilage degradation.
Emphysema- Loss of elastin in the lung alveoli prevents normal
expansion and contraction of the alveoli.
Diverticulitis (inflammation of the diverticuli)- Loss of
elastin in the intestinal diverticuli prevents these pouches
from contracting back to their normal state. The
anti-inflammatory effects of silica help reduce pain of
diverticulitis.
Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons)- Loss of collagen and
elastin in tendons increases the risk of damage to tendons from
overstretching and tearing. Silica can help reduce inflammation
of the tendons.
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Silica: Diatomaceous Earth vs Horsetail Grass
Silica is essential to the body, especially for the production
of structural proteins including collagen and elastin.
Structural proteins help give strength and elasticity to the
hair, nails, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, blood vessel
walls, etc.
The body does not absorb and utilize silica in the form of
silicon dioxide. Instead, silica reacts with water to form small
amounts of orthosilicic acid (OA), which is absorbed by both
plants and animals for the formation of tissues. Although OA is
not “silica” (silicon dioxide) in the scientific sense it is
still referred to as silica. Especially when referring to OA in
plants.
The presence of acid increases the conversion of silica in to
OA. In the body the primary acid source is stomach acid. Stomach
acid declines with age though. This decreases the body’s ability
to produce and absorb OA leading to loss of tissue integrity and
elasticity frequently associated with “aging disorders”. The use
of acid blockers or antacids such as acid heartburn medications,
coral, dolomite, oyster shell or alkaline waters can further
inhibit the production and absorption of OA.
Primary dietary sources in animals for OA include mineralized
water and fibers. OA is formed in natural water sources as water
dissolves small amounts of silica in soils and rocks forming OA.
OA in water is also taken up by plants where OA helps to give
plants strength by incorporating as part of their fibers. When
these fibers are ingested the OA in the fibers can be extracted
for use by the body.
Horsetail grass (shavegrass) is often incorrectly referred to as
the highest herbal source of “silica”, as OA. The fact is that
bamboo stalk is 7 times higher in silica than horsetail grass.
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is another excellent source of silica,
and also contains much higher levels of silica than horsetail.
DE is the skeletal remains of phytoplankton and consists of 80%
silica compared to the average 4% silica content for horsetail
grass.
As an herbalist I really do not recommend the use of horsetail
grass as a silica source for several reasons:
Some species of horsetail are very toxic
Even the less toxic forms of horsetail grass can cause problems
with long term use including nervous system disorders,
headaches, loss of appetite and premature labor. In moderately
high doses, or as a concentrate, horsetail grass can cause
strong contractions of the blood vessels inhibiting blood flow
to tissues.
Horsetail grass contains the enzyme thiaminase and the toxic
alkaloid equisitine, both of which deplete thiamin from the
body. Symptoms of thiamine deficiency include depression, lack
of appetite, diarrhea, loss of muscle control, arrhythmias and
tachycardia. Tinctures of horsetail pose even a greater risk as
fresh plants are frequently used to make tinctures. Fresh
horsetail contains higher level of toxic thiaminase and
alkaloids. Thiaminase in particular is suspected in the
poisoning of livestock ingesting horsetail grass. Although these
poisonings are more likely due to toxic alkaloids, such as
palustrine in horsetail grass, since ruminants can produce
thiamine in the rumen.
Thiaminase has also been shown to be toxic to the liver.
Even though the amount of nicotine in horsetail is small, it
does not take much nicotine to cause harm. Nicotine is one of
the strongest central nervous system poisons known to man. It
only takes 5mg to kill an adult human. To understand how small
the amount really is needed to kill an adult consider the
average single ‘O’ capsule normally used for capsuling herbs
holds an average of 500mg. Because nicotine is also a powerful
constrictor of blood vessels much lower levels can still be
especially dangerous for some individuals. People with poor
circulation to begin with such as diabetics, people with heart
disease/failure, people with hypothyroidism and people with
Raynaud’s disease or Raynaud’s phenomena are all more prone to
the dangerous blood vessel constricting effects of horsetail
grass.
Horsetail grass is contradicted with the use of diuretics to
prevent abnormally low potassium levels and stimulants like
caffeine to prevent over stimulation of the nervous system.
It is not clear if nicotine is the only component in horsetail
grass that constricts the blood vessels. Other alkaloids present
in horsetail may also contribute to this effect.
As an example of this effect a friend of mine was a fitness
trainer in excellent shape. After drinking 2 cups of horsetail
tea she went to bed. She woke up shortly afterward ice cold
because the horsetail grass tea had constricted her blood
vessels decreasing her blood flow.
If a herbal source of silica is desired the best choice is
bamboo stalk, which unlike horsetail grass dilates blood
vessels. This makes bamboo a much safer choice for people with
high blood pressure, conditions that reduce circulation or that
are on contradicted medications.
Other safe sources of silica include nettle leaf, oat straw and
seaweeds.
A better choice though is food grade DE. DE is higher in silica
than herbs and does not contain any toxic enzymes or alkaloids
as in the case of horsetail grass.
Silica is poorly absorbed, but there are ways to increase levels
in the body, even when stomach acid is low. A simple method is
to add a spoon full of food grade DE to a gallon of water and
allow the DE to settle to the bottom. This may take a few days
initially. Pour the water you intend to drink from the top of
the container, but be careful not to disturb the DE on the
bottom of the container. Refill the container with water and
allow it to settle out again. Keep repeating this process. A
spoon full of DE should last several years if it is not poured
off in the water.
There are several advantages to this method. First of all, small
amounts of the silica in the DE are dissolved in to the water
every time new water is added forming OA. Secondly, because
silica is poorly absorbed only a fraction of the silica from
silica supplements will be absorbed. In addition, people will
not take silica supplements as often as they will drink water
each day. Adding the silica to water results in the formation of
OA of which small amounts are absorbed each time a drink of the
water is taken. This leads to significantly higher levels of OA
absorption from drinking the water throughout the day compared
to taking an occasional silica supplement.
Is DE Toxic?
Anything can be toxic is sufficient quantities or if used
improperly. DE is only toxic though if inhaled repeatedly over
long periods of time, which can lead to silicosis. This is
actually a potential problem with other silica sources as well
such as clays, which are formed from the weathering of silica
containing rocks. Ingested DE has not been shown to be harmful
though. In fact, DE has a long history of use in silica
supplements and being ingested to eliminate intestinal worms in
animals and people with no adverse effects.
The reason DE kills intestinal worms without harming the
intestinal wall is simple. Intestinal worms have much thinner
and delicate tissues than the human digestive system. Worms
therefore are prone to the abrasive effects of DE, unlike the
human gastrointestinal tract. In fact, DE is considerably less
abrasive than the fibers we ingest in our diets, which are less
abrasive than horsetail grass. Horsetail grass is so abrasive
that it is also known as scouring rush for its use in the
pioneer days to clean pots and pans.
DE is only slightly abrasive being more like ultrafine sandpaper
used for polishing. For this reason it is commonly used in
toothpaste to safely clean teeth.
Other common uses of DE are:
• Insect control in foods we consume.
• As an anti-caking agent in foods.
• An addition to animal feeds to keep livestock worm free
without toxicity.
• In cosmetics as a filler, opacifier and scrub agent since DE
is not toxic and it will not harm the skin.
• As an additive to some soaps.
• As a flow agent and filler for the manufacturing of capsules
and pills since it does not harm the digestive tract.
Myths About DE
Myth: DE is “agatized” silica and has a hardness of 7 on the
Mohs hardness scale making it hard on the tissues.
Fact: This false claim is based on the hardness of pure silica,
which has a hardness of 7. DE is not pure silica though. It is
comprised of 80% silica, 10% metal oxides and 10% moisture. The
actual hardness of DE is actually quite low, 1 to 1.5 on the
Mohs hardness scale, which runs from 1 (the softest) for talc to
10 (the hardest) for diamond. This can be verified on this link
showing the hardness for various materials on the scale:
HTML http://www.tedpella.com/company_html/hardness.htm.
Another way to look at this is bentonite clay is a weathering
byproduct of rocks, and like DE contains silica and smaller
quantities of other minerals. Despite the content of silica,
bentonite has nowhere near a hardness of 7.
As for the claim that DE is agatized silica, again this is not
true. Agate is formed from extremely hot water supersaturated
with silica, and possibly some magmatically dissolved silica.
This dissolved silica deposits in to crevices or vugs within
rocks or replaces organic matter in items such as shells or wood
creating layers of hard silica.
Again, DE is the skeletal remains of phytoplankton that have
died and settled to the bottom of ancient oceans and lakes.
These phytoplankton, nor their remains, were ever subjected to
extremely hot water or magma to dissolve the silica and
redeposit it as a quartz such as agate.
Food grade DE is extremely soft having a hardness of 1-1.5, as
pointed out earlier, far below the hardness of pure silica that
has a hardness of 7. In addition, food grade DE consists of
amorphous, not crystalline, silica. Amorphous silica is not as
hard and sharp like crystalline silica and does not pose the
same health risks as crystalline silica.
Clumps of DE are also sold as kitty litter. If DE was so sharp
and hard as claimed, cat’s paws would be shredded from
scratching in the litter box. Of course this is not the case
since the claims about DE being hard and sharp to the point of
damaging tissues are simply untrue.
Myth: Consuming silica causes kidney damage.
Fact: I have heard people claim that they got kidney pain within
minutes of ingesting DE. It is hard to say why they experienced
this problem, but it was not from the silica in the DE as I have
seen claimed. A simple fact of anatomy and physiology can prove
this. Once ingested, the silicon dioxide in the DE has to
convert in the stomach in to OA in order to be absorbed. When
the stomach finally empties its contents in to the in intestines
the OA can be absorbed. Next the OA circulates through the blood
where most of the OA is utilized in the formation of tissues.
Finally traces of OA can reach the kidneys for safe excretion.
No damage occurs to the kidneys since the OA is not in a solid
crystalline form that can cut thinner tissues of the kidneys.
The whole process for the traces of OA to be absorbed and even
smaller traces to reach the kidneys takes considerably longer
than the few minutes people are claiming to get pain within.
#Post#: 587--------------------------------------------------
SINUS INFECTION
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:48 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
Sinus Infections
One of the most common mistakes I see doctors make is the
prescribing of antibiotics without first performing a culture.
This is especially true for sinus infections. Time and time
again I have seen people given antibiotics for sinus infections
without a culture. The majority of the time antibiotic therapy
fails. The problem is that antibiotics work against bacteria,
though the majority of sinus infections are fungal in origin. If
a fungal infection is present in the sinuses, antibiotic therapy
will not only fail, but the therapy will make the condition
worse. The sinuses, like various other parts of the body,
contain beneficial bacteria. These bacteria, among other
functions, help to control fungal overgrowth. As antibiotics
kill off the beneficial bacteria, the fungal infection becomes
free to grow uncontrolled.
Fungal infections of the sinus cavity are actually extremely
difficult to eradicate. My former business partner suffered with
a fungal sinus infection for seven years when I met him. He was
prescribed antibiotics over and over without any success. A few
doctors did run cultures, though the cultures failed to show
infection. I made him a concoction of osha’ root, cayenne
pepper, and licorice root. The next day a large fungus ball came
out of his sinuses. Analysis by a medical lab determined that
the infection was a very aggressive black fungus. The constant
antibiotic therapy just increased the hold the fungus had in his
sinus cavity.
Further complicating the problem is the fact that the sinus
cavity is a warm, moist environment. This is the perfect growing
environment for fungus. When trying to fight fungal infections,
two problems arise. First, any fungus being killed can become
food for the surviving fungus. Second, if even one fungal spore
remains the infection may rebound.
Many feel the best way to address sinus infections is to first
get a culture so the type of infection is known. If the
infections are proven to be bacterial, pharmaceutical or herbal
antibiotics, such as pau d’ arco, are recommended. Fungal
infections are best addressed by trying to restore the flora in
the sinus cavity. Probiotic supplements, or probiotic foods,
such as yogurt or kefir, can help. A probiotic powder, such as
acidophilus powder, may be made into a liquid, with the addition
of distilled water, for nasal irrigation, or snuffing. This will
help elevate levels of beneficial bacteria in the sinus cavity.
Eating horseradish may also help. Horseradish root contains a
volatile oil, with extremely strong antiseptic properties. When
ingested, the oil is absorbed into the bloodstream, and excreted
through the respiratory passages. By trying to breathe through
the nose, the oil is forced up into the sinus cavity where it
can help fight infection.
Limiting the intake of simple sugars, high glycemic foods, and
yeast products may also help. Consumption of alcohol and
caffeine should also be eliminated.
Maintaining a healthy immune system is also essential. A few
suggestions are the herbs amla berry, schisandra berry,
astragalus, jiaogulan, and myrrh. Other recommended supplements
include 50 mg of zinc daily, 200 micrograms of selenium three
times a day, and 10,000IU daily of vitamin A. Vitamin C is
important, though excessive doses are not recommended. Natural
sources of vitamin C are more effective than synthetic forms.
This is why I recommend amla berry, which is my favorite source
of natural vitamin C.
#Post#: 588--------------------------------------------------
SOY MYTHS
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:49 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
Soy Fact and Fiction
The internet has been such as savior and such a curse for people
seeking factual information on health. On one hand the internet
has made access to information so much easier than in the past.
On the other hand though it has also made it considerably easier
for people to post bogus information to fit whatever their whim
is at the moment, or to aid in the sales of products.
Unfortunately, more and more the internet has been cluttered up
with bogus claims about diet and medicine. For example, the
various claims about canola oil such as the myth that it was
used to make mustard gas during World War II. Problem with this
bogus claim is that mustard gas is not derived from any plant.
It is a completely synthesized chemical compound.
I have never seen anything dealing with diet or medicine that
has had more false information posted about it than soy. Often
there are claims made that some study said…… But of course
these studies are never presented making one wonder if they even
exist. And when studies are presented they often do not show
what is claimed or the test subject was given megadoses of an
isolate, which is not even close to normal use. Therefore, I
have put together this article to address some of the most
common myths that have been circulating on the internet about
soy.
Fiction: Soy has only recently been used as a human food
source.
Fact: Soy has been cultivated and used for human food for over
5,000 years. The earliest preserved cultivated soybeans were
found in Korea and were carbon dated to 1000–900 BC.
Fiction: Soy is not a complete protein.
Fact: The definition of “complete protein” is containing
sufficient levels of all nine essential amino acids to meet
dietary needs. Soybeans contain sufficient levels of all these
essential amino acids and therefore is classified as a complete
protein. If someone wants to change the definition of “complete
protein” to mean containing all known amino acids then most
foods would not be classified as complete proteins including
milk (raw or pasteurized), beef, poultry and fish. The only
food source I have seen containing all the amino acids is
pollen.
Even if soy was not a complete protein it would not matter
unless your diet was strictly soy. But foods, including soy,
are often eaten with other protein sources providing other amino
acids that may not be found in an individual source.
It has also been claimed that soy is deficient in the sulfur
bearing amino acids methionine and cystine. Again this is not
true. Soybeans contain 18 amino acids including methionine and
cystine.
Fiction: Soy is high in aluminum because they wash the soybeans
in aluminum vats with sulfuric acid.
Fact: I really got a kick out of reading this one. If anyone
has ever really worked with sulfuric acid, then they know how
nasty this acid can be!!! The acid is very hygroscopic and
likes to turn organic materials, such as skin, in to carbon by
stripping hydrogen and oxygen from the material to form water,
leaving behind the carbon. If the soybeans were washed in
sulfuric acid you would not have soybeans, you would have carbon
balls.
Secondly the acid would eat away the aluminum of the vats
creating very dangerous amounts of free hydrogen gas. Not to
mention the fact that they would have to be constantly replacing
the vats that are being eaten away, which would be prohibitively
costly in both replacement costs and downtime.
Occasionally highly alkaline substances are used in the
processing of soy that can interact with the aluminum drawing it
in to the product. But again the cost of machining and changing
out the aluminum parts is not cost effective so it is not a
widespread practice.
Fiction: Soy causes cancer.
Fact: Phytoestrogens are plant based estrogenic substances. On
average phytoestrogens are about 200 to 400 times weaker than
the body’s own estrogen. So they have a duel effect by both
acting as very weak estrogens and by locking up estrogen
receptors to block the action of stronger and more dangerous
estrogens. For instance Premarin (PREgnant MARes urINe), which
is 3,000 times stronger than human estrogen, and xenoestrogens,
such as dioxin and PCBs, which can be as high as 30,000 times
stronger than human estrogens. By locking up estrogen receptors
phytoestrogens prevent these stronger estrogens from causing
cancer and other hormonally induced problems.
I find it very interesting that there are people bashing soy for
its phytoestrogen content, while promoting flax seed as a health
food. Flax seed actually contains 2.5 times higher of a level
of phytoestrogens than soy. And unlike soy, which is generally
cooked and/or fermented reducing the phytoestrogen content, flax
seed is eaten raw retaining the full content of phytoestrogens.
Phytoestrogens are also widely present in our diets. A partial
list of dietary phytoestrogens include sage, parsley, yams,
peas, kudzu, beans, peanuts, seaweeds, carrots, bananas,
oranges, millet, corn, barley, grapes, berries, baker's yeast,
beets, pomegranates, cherries, garlic, oats, olives, peppers,
wheat, sunflower seeds, flax seed, rye, spinach, sesame seeds,
pumpkin seeds, quinoa, rhubarb, tomatoes, rice, plums, potatoes,
papaya, dates, eggplant, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, anise,
fennel, cucumber, peanuts, and onions.
Alcohols can also contain high levels of phytoestrogens.
Especially beer, wine, gin, ouzo and whiskey.
Other sources include red clover, licorice root, and numerous
other herbs. In fact phytoestrogens have been isolated from
over 350 different plants.
Phytoestrogen sources have a long history of being to treat
cancer. For example, red clover blossom that contains the same
phytoestrogens found in soy plus two others. Cruciferous
vegetables and seaweeds that contain phytoestrogens and
resveratrol, another phytoestrogen, have also been used in
cancer treatment.
There are also numerous studies backing the anti-cancer effects
of soy. Here are links to just some of these studies:
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19996398?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=4
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19800779?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=16
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19789363?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=19
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19789300?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=20
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17200150?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_SingleItemSupl.Pubmed_Discovery_RA&linkpos=3&log$=relatedarticles&logdbfrom=pubmed
HTML http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/cbr.1997.12.405
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14628433
"There are growing body of experimental evidence that show the
inhibition of human cancer cells by genistein through the
modulation of genes that are related to the control of cell
cycle and apoptosis. Moreover, it has been shown that genistein
inhibits the activation of NF-kappa B and Akt signaling
pathways, both of which are known to maintain a homeostatic
balance between cell survival and apoptosis. Genistein is
commonly known as phytoestrogen, which targets estrogen- and
androgen-mediated signaling pathways in the processes of
carcinogenesis. Furthermore, genistein has been found to have
antioxidant property, and shown to be a potent inhibitor of
angiogenesis and metastasis. Taken together, both in vivo and in
vitro studies have clearly shown that genistein, one of the
major soy isoflavones, is a promising reagent for cancer
chemoprevention and/or treatment. "
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12813174
"CONCLUSION: In a population-based, prospective cohort study in
Japan, frequent miso soup and isoflavone consumption was
associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer."
HTML http://cebp.aacrjournals.org/content/16/3/538.full
"In conclusion, we found that isoflavone intake was associated
with a decreased risk of localized prostate cancer."
It is not just the phytoestrogens that give soy anti-cancer
properties. There are other compounds including antiviral
protease inhibitors. Numerous forms of human cancer have been
linked to various viruses. Inactivating these viruses with
protease inhibitors therefore could help find cancer. Same
reason protease inhibitors are being used to treat suspected
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, which is also a
cancer virus. HIV was formerly known as human T-cell
lymphoma/leukemia virus type 3 (HTLV-3).
Fiction: The phytoestrogens in soy products have lead to the
premature development of girls and impeded or delayed sexual
development in boys.
Fact: There is no evidence whatsoever to back this claim. The
only studies that can be found that show any of these effects
from foods are of meats and dairy that are often loaded with
hormones that are hundreds or even thousands of times stronger
than phytoestrogens. One news story had reported on this
problem in Puerto Rico. Here girls as young as 8 were
developing breasts, as well as many of the boys in the area.
The source? The massive levels of estrogens in the chickens
they were eating.
Estrogens are given to farm animals to fatten them up and
increase milk production. When we consume these meats and dairy
we ingest these hormones. These estrogens in turn cause problems
such as cancers, weight gain, thyroid dysfunction, blood clots,
etc. These are all well known side effects of estrogens.
Current research is also pointing to environmental
xenoestrogens, which can be 30,000 to 100,000 times stronger
than human estrogens, which themselves can be hundreds of times
stronger than phytoestrogens. These xenoestrogens enter the
environment from chemical sprays and industrial wastes and are
found in plastics and shampoos to name a few.
Fiction: Infants receiving soy milk receive the equivalent of
five birth control pills a day.
Fact: This is one of the most ludicrous claims I have heard
yet, and of course the claim is never backed by any evidence.
This is because you cannot present what does not exist.
The estrogens found in birth control pills are 100 times
stronger than human estrogen. And as pointed out previously,
phytoestrogens such as those found in soy are 200-400 times
weaker than human estrogens. Therefore, unless they feeding
babies soy formula by the tanker load there is no possible to
get the equivalent of five birth control pills per day.
Fiction: Soy causes hypothyroidism.
Fact: Soy does contain goitrogens, as do broccoli, peanuts, and
various other foods. Goitrogens though are greatly reduced or
destroyed by fermentation or as little as 10 minutes of cooking.
Soy products, including soy milk, are generally either cooked
and/or fermented.
The goitrogenic activity from raw, unfermented soy is actually
from the phytoestrogens found in the soy. Flax seed is
considerably more goitrogenic than soy due to flax seed’s high
phytoestrogen content. Especially considering that flax seed is
not fermented and/or cooked like soybeans to reduce the
phytoestrogen content.
The effects of these goitrogens can be easily countered though
by the addition of iodine containing foods to the diet such as
seaweeds.
Fiction: One study found that children with autoimmune thyroid
disease are more likely to have been fed soy-based infant
formula.
Fact: I ran several searches looking for any human studies
showing a link between soy intake and Hashimoto's and there were
NONE!!! Probably because soy has nothing to do with autoimmune
thyroid conditions.
Fiction: Soy stunts growth and the high consumption is why
Orientals are so short. I actually heard this from a
naturopathic doctor.
Fact: Height is dependent on genetics, and soy does not stunt
growth. In fact I was allergic to both mother's milk and cow's
milk as an infant, and was raised on soy milk. I am 6' 2", the
same height as my father.
Fiction: Because of the estrogens in soy, consuming soy makes
people gay. Another ridiculous claim I actually read from posts
on the internet.
Fact: Again this has genetic factors, and has nothing to do with
soy consumption. By the way, I am not gay either.
Fiction: Soy causes kidney stones since it is high in oxalic
acid.
Fact: Soybeans are actually low in oxalic acid. Some of the
common foods that contain more oxalic acid that soybeans include
spinach, beans, asparagus, parsley, onions, broccoli, beans,
cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, radishes, garlic, lettuce,
eggplant, greens, carrots, celery and eggplant.
Dietary oxalic acid though actually plays very little of a role
in the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. The reason
for this is simple. Oxalic acid in plants is generally already
bound blocking its absorption. And any oxalic acid binding with
calcium in the diet will not absorb in to the bloodstream, so it
cannot even reach the kidneys. Instead the bound oxalic acid
will simply be eliminated through the feces.
Fiction: The enzyme inhibitors are not destroyed by cooking.
Fact: Enzyme inhibitors, which are found in various seeds, such
as grains, legumes and nuts, have been shown to be readily
destroyed by moisture, especially when heat is applied as in
cooking. Enzyme inhibitors are also found in many “healthy
foods” such as flax seed and sweet potatoes that contain trypsin
inhibitors.
Fiction: Phytic acid found in soy is an anti-nutrient.
Fact: Phytic acid, also known as inositol hexaphosphate (IP6)
is another compound found commonly in seeds.
Phytic acid has a higher affinity for heavy metals and dangerous
free iron than it does for beneficial minerals. Therefore, even
pure phytic acid would be highly unlikely to “rob” the body of
any beneficial minerals. I state “pure phytic acid” because in
order for phytates to take minerals from the body they must
first give up the minerals they are already bound to within the
plant. In other words the phytates can only bind to a specific
amount of minerals. Since the phytates have a high affinity for
metals and minerals they will already be completely bound to
minerals picked up from the soil. Since the phytates are
already completely bound there is no way from them to bind any
metals or minerals in the body unless they give up what they are
already bound to. Therefore, there would be an exchange in the
body rather than the phytates simply taking minerals from the
body.
The fact that phytic acid has such a high affinity for iron is
why plant iron is harder to absorb than heme iron and why phytic
acid functions so well as an antioxidant. Phytic acid is
Nature’s way of preventing iron overload.
These properties and the high affinity of phytic acid for heavy
metals make phytic acid an excellent choice for the treatment of
heavy metal poisoning, some infections and cancers.
Fiction: Hemagglutinin in soy causes the blood to clot.
Fact: Soy does contain hemagglutinin, but it is readily
destroyed by cooking and/or fermentation.
Furthermore, the fermentation of soy yields the blood thinner
nattokinase.
Fiction: The B12 analogues in soy increase the requirement for
true B12 by the body.
Fact: True B12 is not found in most if any plants. Therefore,
if the claim that B12 analogues increased the need for true B12
then virtually any plant we consumed would increase our
requirement for true B12. There is no evidence though that the
consumption of B12 analogues increase the need for true B12.
Furthermore, soybeans provide fiber that help feed the
intestinal flora. The intestinal flora in turn produce some
vitamins for the body including true B12.
Fiction: Soy increases the body’s requirement for vitamin D.
Fact: There is absolutely no evidence to this claim. Although,
plants do not contain active vitamin D3, so as with cow’s milk
some soy products are fortified with vitamin D.
Fiction: Soy leads to weak bones by decreasing vitamin D and
calcium.
Fact: The decreasing vitamin D myth is covered above. As with
the false vitamin D claim though, there is also no evidence that
soy depletes calcium either. In fact, soy contains calcium and
magnesium.
More importantly soy provides silica, which is the most
important nutrient required for proper bone health. Silica not
only aids in calcium absorption, but it is also what allows
calcium to go where it is needed and is responsible for the
mineralization of bone. Silica is also a component of the
collagen matrix, which gives bones the majority of their
strength.
In addition, soy contains isoflavones that have been proven to
INCREASE bone density and strength and/or decrease bone loss:
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19877511?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=12
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17392695?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_SingleItemSupl.Pubmed_Discovery_RA&linkpos=1&log$=relatedarticles&logdbfrom=pubmed
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18063230?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_SingleItemSupl.Pubmed_Discovery_RA&linkpos=1&log$=relatedarticles&logdbfrom=pubmed
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19759166?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=19
As for diet, some of the primary foods that lead to loss of bone
density are red meats and dairy. This is in large part due to
the high phosphorus content, which displaces calcium from bones.
In addition, high protein such as in dairy products interferes
with calcium absorption. This is why the highest milk consuming
nations in the world also have the highest osteoporosis rates.
Furthermore, animal proteins have been shown to induce bone loss
though metabolic acids:
HTML http://www.springerlink.com/content/35211uv240638198/
HTML http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/abstract/111/3/553
HTML http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/reprint/120/1/134.pdf
HTML https://www.msu.edu/~corcora5/food/vegan/calcium+protein.html
HTML http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/75/4/609
Fiction: Soy is damaging to the brain and the rest of the
nervous system because it does not contain cholesterol.
Fact: It is true that soy does not contain cholesterol, and it
even lowers cholesterol due to the presence of cholesterol
lowering sterols and lecithin.
The lack of cholesterol in soy though does not lead to
neurological damage. In fact, dietary cholesterol plays an
insignificant role in blood cholesterol levels as much of it is
bound by dietary sterols and lecithin. The majority of
cholesterol utilized by the body is synthesized by the liver.
Furthermore, soy is also a good source of lecithin. Lecithin
contains compounds that help with building both brain tissue and
acetylcholine associated with improved memory.
Fiction: Soy does not protect from heart disease.
Fact: Soy does more for heart disease than simply lower
cholesterol. Soy can lower inflammation and blood pressure due
to its sterols. Strengthen arterial walls and reduce arterial
inflammation due to its silica content. Prevent oxidative
damage to arterial walls by binding free iron by its phytic
acid. And remove arterial plaque due to its lecithin content.
Fiction: Soy consumption causes infertility and reduces
virility.
Fact: As with most of the anti-soy claims circulating on the
internet there is absolutely no evidence to these claims.
Actual studies in fact actually show just the opposite:
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19919579?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=1
Soy, phyto-oestrogens and male reproductive function: a review.
Cederroth CR, Auger J, Zimmermann C, Eustache F, Nef S.
Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of
Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland.
There is growing interest in the possible health threat posed by
the effects of endocrine disruptors on reproduction. Soy and
soy-derived products contain isoflavones that mimic the actions
of oestrogens and may exert adverse effects on male fertility.
The purpose of this review was to examine the evidence regarding
the potential detrimental effects of soy and phyto-oestrogens on
male reproductive function and fertility in humans and animals.
Overall, there are some indications that phyto-oestrogens, alone
or in combination with other endocrine disruptors, may alter
reproductive hormones, spermatogenesis, sperm capacitation and
fertility. However, these results must be interpreted with care,
as a result of the paucity of human studies and as numerous
reports did not reveal any adverse effects on male reproductive
physiology. Further investigation is needed before a firm
conclusion can be drawn. In the meantime, caution would suggest
that perinatal phyto-oestrogen exposure, such as that found in
infants feeding on soy-based formula, should be avoided.
HTML http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19819436?itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum&ordinalpos=2
Soy protein isolates of varying isoflavone content do not
adversely affect semen quality in healthy young men.
Beaton LK, McVeigh BL, Dillingham BL, Lampe JW, Duncan AM.
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University
of Guelph, Guelph, Canada.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of consumption of soy
protein of varying isoflavone content on parameters of semen
quality in healthy young men. DESIGN: Randomized crossover
intervention. SETTING: University campus. PATIENT(S): Healthy
adult men (age 27.5+/-5.67 years, body mass index 25.4+/-3.14
kg/m(2)). INTERVENTION(S): Milk protein isolate (MPI),
low-isoflavone soy protein isolate (low-iso SPI; 1.64+/-0.19 mg
isoflavones/day, expressed as aglycone equivalents), and
high-isoflavone soy protein isolate (high-iso SPI; 61.7+/-7.35
mg isoflavones/day, expressed as aglycone equivalents) for 57
days each separated by 28-day washout periods. MAIN OUTCOME
MEASURE(S): Urinary isoflavones were measured from 24-hour urine
samples collected on days 54-56 of each treatment period. Semen
quality parameters (semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm
count, sperm percent motility, total motile sperm count, sperm
morphology) were measured from semen samples collected on days 1
and 57 of each treatment period. RESULT(S): Urinary isoflavones
were significantly higher after consumption of high-iso SPI
compared with the low-iso SPI and MPI. Semen parameters,
including semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm count, sperm
percent motility, total motile sperm count, and sperm
morphology, were not significantly affected by consumption of
either low- or high-iso SPI compared with MPI. CONCLUSION(S):
Consumption of soy protein of low or high isoflavone content
does not adversely affect semen quality in a sample of healthy
adult men.
Even common sense should cause anyone to question the ultra-high
population of people in China where soy products are a major
component of the diet if soy reduces virility and fertility?
The only studies that can be found that suggest there may be a
link were conducted on obese men that had higher than normal
estrogen levels. Many people do not realize that fat cells
actually produce estrogen. So the higher the level of fat cells
the more estrogen that can be produced by the body. High levels
of estrogen in men reduce fertility.
Similar circulating claims state that soy is highly estrogenic
and therefore soy was used to dampen the sexual desire of monks
due to the estrogen. There are several flaws with this claim.
First of all soy is not “highly estrogenic”. As mentioned
earlier phytoestrogens are 200-400 times weaker than the body’s
own estrogen. The most estrogenic foods on the market are
beef, poultry and dairy.
Furthermore, these phytoestrogens lock up estrogen receptors
blocking the effects of excess stronger estrogens such as those
generated by the body and xenoestrogens.
In addition, estrogen does not necessarily decrease sex drive.
In women estrogen actually promotes sex drive by strengthening
oxytocin activity, acting as an antidepressant and by promoting
attraction (pheromone perception), receptivity, sensation and
vaginal lubrication. Other than the increased vaginal
lubrication men can experience the same benefits of estrogen,
though to a lesser extent since they produce less estrogen and
higher testosterone, which is an estrogen antagonist. And yes,
estrogen antagonizes testosterone, which also increases sex
drive. The difference between the increased sex drive by
estrogen and testosterone is that estrogen is more calming and
promotes more bonding between the partners as where testosterone
creates more aggression and a wanting to be alone after the
orgasm. This is why people with very high testosterone levels
frequently masturbate. It allows them the gratification of
orgasm while allowing them to be alone since testosterone
antagonizes the bonding effects of estrogen.
The hormone that decreases the sex drive in both men and women
is not estrogen, it is progesterone. This is why the herb vitex
(chaste tree berry, monk’s pepper) was used by the monk’s to
suppress their sex drive. Vitex increases progesterone levels
reducing the sex drive. Progesterone is also used to
“chemically castrate” men for the same reason.
The sexual suppressing effects of progesterone come from its
ability to cause depression, increase irritability, reduce brain
opioids, reduce pheromone perception, decrease testosterone and
reduce oxytocin sensitivity and thus reduce genital sensitivity.
Fiction: Soy consumption increases hair growth in middle-aged
men indicating decreased testosterone levels.
Fact: Low testosterone does not increase hair growth. Facial
and chest hair are increased by higher levels of testosterone,
not lower testosterone levels. Same reason the growth of these
hairs as well as arm, leg and pubic hair growth increases during
puberty as testosterone levels rise.
Scalp hair is not increased either by testosterone levels. Hair
follicles in the scalp though can be damaged by an elevated
level of a more radical form of testosterone known as
dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This can lead to hair loss as the
hair falls out from the follicular damage. This is referred to
as male pattern baldness as the hair falls out along the temples
and top rear of the head. Hair loss may progress later to the
remainder of the top of the head. The reason hair is lost in
these areas and not the sides or back is these areas have higher
levels of DHT receptors and therefore are more prone to the
effects of DHT.
#Post#: 589--------------------------------------------------
STOMACH ACID - ANTACIDS
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:52 pm
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The Benefits of Stomach Acid
Stomach acid is present to:
1. Help protect the body from pathogens that would otherwise
enter through the digestive system. Many pathogenic bacteria,
such as E. coli and H. pylori THRIVE in an alkaline
environment. This is why E. coli lives in the alkaline
environment of the intestines and H. pylori secretes ammonia to
neutralize stomach acid to protect itself. Reducing stomach
acid just makes it that much easier for these pathogens to set
up shop in the body where they DO NOT belong.
2. To allow for the absorption of minerals as non-chelated
minerals are reacted with the acid to convert them in to
absorbable salts.
3. Reduction of acid reflux, which results from the lack of
stomach acid. A lack of stomach acid leads to fermentation by
yeast overgrowth in the stomach and by fermentation of foods not
being digested properly. The resultant gas formation builds up
in the stomach and is eventually rapidly released up the
esophagus carrying traces of acid with it.
4. To allow for the proper digestion of proteins. The digestive
enzyme pepsin cannot work without sufficient levels of
hydrochloric acid (stomach acid). When proteins are not broken
down properly the intact proteins can enter the bloodstream
forming antigens. This in turn can lead to serious and even
life threatening allergic reactions.
5. Absorption of vitamins. The B vitamins B6, B12 and folate
in particular are dependent on sufficient stomach acid for
absorption. Stomach acid levels decline though with age
naturally. This is why deficiencies of B6, B12 and folate are
so common in the elderly.
6. Conversion of silica to orthosilicic acid for use by the
body. Silica is essential for the formation of collagen,
elastin, and chondroitin. Without sufficient silica we develop
numerous conditions including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis,
heart disease, emphysema, diverticulitis, etc. Even wrinkles
and cellulite can result from a loss of silica leading to a
reduction of the structural proteins collagen and elastin. In
order for silica to be absorbed and utilized it must first be
converted in to orthosilicic acid. This occurs from a reaction
between silica and water, but the process is greatly enhanced by
the presence of an acid. The primary acid for this conversion
is stomach acid.
As I mentioned before stomach acid DECLINES with age. This
leads to a drop in the conversion of silica in to orthosilicic
acid, and therefore a loss of collagen, elastin, and chondroitin
production as we age. Now go back and look at the symptoms that
develop from the loss of these structural proteins. Notice how
t
hese are not seen in younger people but are common in the
elderly? So why do we see this in the elderly? Because the
lack of stomach acid interferes with the absorption of nutrients
needed for the production of structural proteins. These
nutrients include silica, zinc, copper and amino acids.
As we can see if you want to speed up the production of
"age-related disorders" a simple way is to do this is to
neutralize your stomach acid.
It should be noted that most of the nutrients needed to form
stomach acid are acid dependant for absorption. Therefore the
lack of stomach acid leads to further declines in stomach acid,
leading to less absorption of stomach acid forming nutrients,
leading to less stomach acid formation......... It is a
vicious cycle downhill once started. Therefore I recommend
avoiding antacids, acid blockers also known as proton pump
inhibitors, alkaline waters, calcium carbonate (coral, oyster
shell, dolomite), calcium oxide/hydroxide (lime) and magnesium
oxide/hydroxide.
#Post#: 590--------------------------------------------------
VITAMIN C ISSUES
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:53 pm
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Vitamin C Functions
The most popular supplement ever is obviously vitamin C. This
antioxidant serves the body in so many ways.
As a water-soluble antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect the
inside of cells from free radical damage. A synthetic, oil
soluble form, a vitamin C is also available. The oil soluble
form can help protect the cell membrane.
Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen and
elastin. These proteins give strength and elasticity to the
skin, hair, nails, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments,
arterial walls, and other tissues. Deficiencies of these
proteins lead to wrinkles, emphysema, diverticulitis,
osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and other disorders.
The immune system is dependent on vitamin C for the production
of antibodies, interferons, immune enzymes, and immune cells.
The thymus gland, considered the master gland of immunity, and
the adrenal glands, which also play a major role in the immune
system, are both highly dependent on vitamin C for proper
function. In fact, the adrenal glands receive priority of
vitamin C over the rest of the body.
The primary cause for vitamin C deficiencies is stress,
including pain. Stress causes the adrenal glands to work
overtime, increasing the requirement for vitamin C by the
adrenal glands. Because the adrenal glands receive priority of
vitamin C over the rest the body, this reduces available levels
to other parts of the body. Stimulants, such as caffeine and
nicotine, also overwork the adrenal glands reducing vitamin C
levels in the body.
----------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Natural Vitamin C
I really prefer natural products whenever possible. Nature knows
how to maintain a balance that we don’t see with synthetics. For
example, the blood thinning coumarins and alfalfa are balanced
by the blood clotting vitamin K. The coffee bean, which contains
the stimulant caffeine, is coated with a fleshy coating before
processing that contains a sedative. The upper portion of the
ephedra plant is a stimulant, while the roots are a sedative.
Green tea contains a small amount of the stimulant caffeine, and
the sedative amino acid theanine.
Vitamin C is another example. Natural vitamin C sources have
several advantages over synthetic sources. For example, natural
sources of vitamin C also contain synergistic bioflavonoids that
must be added to synthetic C. Natural sources of vitamin C also
contain compounds that help prevent deterioration of the vitamin
C, which again is not true of synthetic vitamin C.
My favorite source of vitamin C is actually amla berry, also
known as Indian gooseberry. The vitamin C in amla berry is
actually 12 times stronger than synthetic vitamin C. Polyphenols
in amla protect the vitamin C from oxidation, making it
extremely stable. Additional advantages of amla include
antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory
effects. Amla protect the DNA from heavy metal damage, and
significantly raises intracellular levels super oxide dismutase
(SOD). SOD is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune
stimulatory enzyme.
My second choice for a natural vitamin C source is camu camu.
Camu camu is native to South America. It is considered the
highest plant source of vitamin C in the world. Camu camu does
have one disadvantage though. Camu camu does not have the
stability of amla, or acerola cherry.
My third choice is acerola cherry. This plant is thought to have
originated from the Yucatan. Studies have shown widely varying
rates of vitamin C, from lower than amla to higher than camu
camu. As with amla berry, the vitamin C in acerola cherry is
stabilized by polyphenols.
Other advantages of natural vitamin C sources are the fact that
they are also sources of other vitamins. They also provide amino
acids, minerals, and other nutrients that synthetic vitamin C
does not offer.
#Post#: 591--------------------------------------------------
VITAMIN C INTERFERENCE
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:56 pm
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Vitamin C Interactions/Interference
Pharmaceutical drugs often react with foods and supplements,
including vitamin C. And as we have seen, excessive vitamin C
intake can interact with some nutritional compounds. Sometimes
these interactions are beneficial, such as increasing the
absorption of minerals. And sometimes it leads to problems such
as iron overload or copper and B12 deficiencies.
Another area that is often overlooked is the interference of
laboratory tests by excessive intake of vitamin C. For example,
excessive vitamin C intake may lead to false high or low
bilirubin levels, depending on the assay test being used.
Lactate dehydrogenase, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels will
read erroneously low. Aspartate aminotransferase levels may read
erroneously high. The National Institute of Health (NIH)
reported on a case in which a woman with unexplained anemia was
taking 2,000mg of vitamin C daily. When tested for occult blood
in the stool, repeated tests showed negative results. The woman
discontinued taking the vitamin C for 4 days, and when retested
stool samples tested positive for blood. It was also found that
taking 750mg of vitamin C daily can interfere with detecting
blood in the urine.
Vitamin C interferes with several glucose tests, including tests
diabetics use at home. Urinary glucose test strips will test
false positive with as little as 2,000mg of vitamin C daily.
Home test strips can show normal blood glucose readings, even
when glucose levels are elevated, also at 2g of vitamin c daily.
Laboratory glucose tests may show erroneously low glucose levels
with excessive vitamin C intake.
To decrease the risk of false laboratory readings it is
recommended that all supplements be stopped at least 48 hours
before having any lab work done.
Below is a link from the NIH and a portion of the article that
discusses the interactions of vitamin c with drugs and
supplements, and interference with laboratory tests.
HTML http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-vitaminc.html
Interactions with Drugs
Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Vitamin C may increase adverse effects
associated with acetaminophen.
Antacids: Vitamin C may increase adverse effects associated with
aluminum-containing antacids such as aluminum hydroxide (Maalox,
Gaviscon).
Aspirin: Vitamin C may increase blood levels and adverse effects
of aspirin, whereas aspirin may decrease blood levels of vitamin
C.
Barbiturates: The effects of vitamin C may be decreased by
barbiturates including phenobarbital (Luminal, Donnatal),
pentobarbital (Nembutal), or secobarbital (Seconal).
Fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin): Vitamin C supplementation may
decrease levels of the drug fluphenazine in the body.
HIV medications (protease inhibitors): Concomitant
administration of high doses of vitamin C can reduce
steady-state indinavir plasma concentrations.
Levodopa (Dopar, Larodopa): There is limited case report
evidence that high dose vitamin C may reduce side effects of
levodopa therapy such as nausea or malcoordination.
Nicotine: Nicotine products such as cigarettes, cigars, chewing
tobacco, or nicotine patches may decrease the effects of vitamin
C.
Oral contraceptives/estrogens: Oral estrogens may decrease the
effects of vitamin C in the body. When taken together, vitamin C
may increase blood levels of ethinyl estradiol.
Tetracyclines: The effects of vitamin C may be decreased by
tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline (Vibramycin),
minocycline (Minocin), or tetracycline (Sumycin).
Warfarin (Coumadin): Vitamin C in high doses appears to
interfere with the blood thinning effects of warfarin by
lowering prothrombin time (PT), as noted in case reports in the
1970s. Complications have not been reported (such as increased
blood clots).
Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements
Iron: When taken together, vitamin C may increase the absorption
of iron in the gastrointestinal tract, although this effect
appears to be variable and may not be clinically significant.
Lutein: Vitamin C may increase absorption of lutein vitamin
supplements.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, cyanocobalamin): Large doses of vitamin
C may interfere with the absorption and metabolism of vitamin
B12.
Interactions with Laboratory Tests
Bilirubin: Vitamin C supplements may cause false increases in
tests of blood bilirubin levels.
Carbamazepine levels: Vitamin C supplements may cause false
increases in blood carbamazepine levels.
Creatinine: Vitamin C supplements may cause false increases in
blood creatinine levels.
Glucose: Vitamin C supplements may interfere with the accuracy
of blood glucose tests.
LDH (lactose dehydrogenase): Vitamin C may cause a false
decrease in blood LDH levels.
Prothrombin time (PT): Vitamin C in high doses appears to
interfere with the blood thinning effects of warfarin by
lowering prothrombin time (PT), as noted in case reports in the
1970s. Complications have not been reported (such as increased
blood clots).
SGOT (glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase): Vitamin C supplements
may cause false increases in blood SGOT levels.
Stool occult blood (guaiac): Vitamin C supplements can cause
false-negative stool occult blood tests, within 48-72 hours
after vitamin C ingestion.
Theophylline levels: Vitamin C supplements may cause false
decreases in blood theophylline levels.
Uric acid levels: Vitamin C supplements may cause false
increases in blood uric acid levels.
Urinary acetaminophen (Tylenol): Vitamin C supplements can cause
false-negative urine acetaminophen tests.
Urinary glucose: Vitamin C supplements can cause false-positive
urinary glucose results with the cupric sulfate reagent test and
false-negative urinary glucose results with the glucose oxidase
test, within 48-72 hours after vitamin C ingestion.
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