No More Gray!
By · CommentsMost of us do not look forward to our hair turning gray. Whether it is the gray hair we frantically “pluck” at first sighting or the numerous gray hairs framing our face, lining our part, or just scattered throughout our hair…we want it out! Trips to the beauty salon, or the hair care section, could be a fad of the past. The solution to no more gray hair may be within our control.
Studies are finding that Catalase, a common, yet vital, enzyme that depletes with the aging process, may be the cause of our hair losing its color and turning gray. Through out life, our hair cells produce small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, as well as, Catalase. The key role of Catalase is to break down hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen; unfortunately, as we age, a natural reduction of Catalase occurs. As Catalase is depleted, hydrogen peroxide continues to build up within the hair follicle. The breakdown of Catalase keeps the hair follicle from being able to produce enough melanin (hair color pigment) to overcome the increase of hydrogen peroxide. Because our “natural defense” against hydrogen peroxide decreases with age, our hair is actually bleached from within.
With these exciting findings, we may now have the option to slow the gray hair process, control its damage and perhaps stop it. Research has found a Catalase enzyme supplement can help maintain sufficient levels needed to effectively breakdown hydrogen peroxide; therefore, prevent build-up and allow melanin within the hair follicle to maintain a healthy “colorful” level!
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well!
Thyroid Condition: Life Altering
By · CommentsThyroid disorder is one of the most common and often misdiagnosed health conditions affecting Americans. Approximately 58 million people suffer from some form of thyroid disease; unfortunately, these disorders often go untreated. While there are many disorders of the thyroid, the most common is related to abnormal thyroid hormone production. The thyroid gland produces and stores thyroid hormone (TH) that directly influences all of the metabolic processes, metabolism, and controls virtually every major organ system in the body. If the thyroid gland is not functioning correctly, whether overactive or underactive, the entire body and all of its systems are not functioning correctly.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (underactive) can include: goiter, infertility, weight gain or difficulty losing weight, depression, moodiness, fatigue, cold intolerance, dry skin (cracked heels), excessive dandruff, dry hair, hair loss, forgetfulness or trouble concentrating, muscle cramps, constipation, menstrual irregularities, infertility, slow heart rate and high cholesterol.
Many of these symptoms may be overlooked or associated with other medical conditions, resulting in an undiagnosed and untreated physical, life-altering illness.
While both men and women can experience various thyroid conditions, up to 25% of all women suffer from borderline thyroid conditions. Be aware of any subtle or persistent change in your health and discuss in detail with your physician.
Keep in mind, there are many highly effective treatment options for diagnosed thyroid conditions, as well as, excellent “preventive” supplements for slight or borderline underactive thyroid levels. Specific vitamins and minerals such as B-Vitamins, Zinc, Iodine, Copper, Manganese, Molybdenum, and L-Tyrosine are necessary for proper thyroid function. These supplements nourish and help maintain thyroid gland health, regulate the production of T3 and T4 hormones, and help relieve symptoms related to hypothyroidism.
While a healthy diet is an important factor in thyroid functions and levels, maintaining a healthy diet on a daily basis can be difficult. Seeking alternative supplements may be a wise choice for your continued health and wellness. As always, we encourage you to discuss your specific health needs and concerns with your physician.
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well.
Walk It Off For Life
By · CommentsWhen you think of exercise, do you think of EXERCISE? Weights, intense aerobics, jogging…pushing your self as far as you can stand it. Well, take a step back and let me remind you of the wonderful benefits of WALKING for exercise.
The impact of walking 30 minutes a day can change your life. Whether you choose to walk a couple of times a day for 10 to 15 minutes or if you walk the full 30 minutes one time daily, you will feel better in mind, body and spirit!
Studies have shown that walking affects your overall wellness daily and for your future health. Benefits of walking include:
• Reduces risk of heart disease
• Promotes weight loss and weight maintenance
• Improves your mood (produces mood boosting “endorphins”)
• Alleviates stress
• Decreases cancer risks and improves cancer recovery and survival rate
• Decreases gallbladder problems
• Reduces risk of diabetes
• Prevents erectile dysfunction
• Boosts mental clarity
• Lowers blood pressure
• Strengthens your bones
• Promotes better sleep (boosts “relaxing” hormone serotonin)
• Increases energy
• Prolongs life
A SIMPLE exercise that can truly change your life! What are you waiting for? Whether you walk outside or on a treadmill, with a friend, alone or with your dog: Get those walking shoes on and take off!
As always, if you have concerns about starting a new exercise regiment, we encourage you to talk with your doctor about the right plan for you.
Remember…it is your life…your health…live well!
Collagen: Arthritis and Joint Care
By · CommentsCollagen protein (Type II Collagen) is the most abundant fibrous protein found in our body, representing 30% of total body protein AND up to 70% of the proteins in our connective tissues. Collagen is essential for the healthy growth and development of muscles, tendons and bones, giving structure to tendons, cartilage tissue, and connective tissue.
Our body produces and stores collagen protein during our youth; unfortunately, as we age, our collagen protein level decreases and our body cannot produce or rebuild the collagen level on its own. From the age of 25 our collagen levels reduce at about 1.5% every year as part of the aging process, as well as, the body’s natural ability to repair supporting connective tissue (bone, joints, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, skin, hair and nails) begins to diminish. By the age of 45 our collagen levels will have been reduced by up to 30%. When the body’s collagen production is reduced, both cartilage strength and all the body systems that contain cartilage are affected. This reduction contributes to an increase in general aches and pains in our joints and muscles and longer recovery times from injuries.
Collagen Hydrolysate can replace the collagen our body is no longer producing. Collagen Hydrolysate is collagen effectively broken down to facilitate easy absorption by the body. Although collagen hydrolysate is found in a mixed diet which includes meat and other animal produce, (vegan diets do not contain any collagen hydrolysate), an insufficient intake of collagen hydrolysate is relatively common. Due to the limited food choices in our diets and the wear and tear that occurs with the natural aging process, (and even greater risks for those who participate in strenuous jobs or recreational activities or are predisposed to joint disease), a collagen supplement is vital.
Collagen Hydrolysate is an ideal nutritional supplement and preventive for anyone wanting to stay fit and healthy. Collagen Hydrolysate can play a vital role for those individuals at risk of developing joint disease. Such at-risk populations include: older individuals, especially 50 years or older; being overweight; those whose occupational activities predispose to osteoarthritis (ex. jobs involving repeated knee bending); individuals participating in extensive non-occupational physical activities including recreational running/walkers, cyclists, gardeners, soccer/football players; those with a history of significant joint or ligament injury; and individuals with a family history suggesting a genetic predisposition to any form of arthritis. Collagen Hydrolysate can even benefit individuals who already suffer from degenerative joint disease and arthritic conditions by reducing inflammation, decreasing pain, (thus reducing pain medications) and improving joint function, flexibility and mobility.
Remember…it’s your life…your health….live well.
Fast Weight Loss With Wisdom
By · CommentsFast weight loss is a goal most of us are searching for. Although weight loss will ultimately involve life style changes, we do have options for how we approach our individual goals. While quick weight loss may be harder to maintain, the rewards of seeing immediate results could be the boost we need to follow through with a weight loss plan.
Because there are so many diet products on the market today, it is important to be informed of specific ingredients of any supplement you may take. Whether it is all natural, safe, herbal, prescription or over the counter, it is each person’s responsibility to research product risks and side effects. While a specific ingredient may be safe for one individual, it could be risky for another. Supplements to assist with controlling or suppressing your appetite, such as Chromium Picolinate and Hoodia, are frequently used as first steps to “kick start” a weight loss goal. Another popular and logical appetite control choice is Glucomannan, a supplement to help a person feel full. While we need to choose wisely and with medical conditions in mind (high blood pressure and heart disease…) a stimulant, such as Green Tea, can increase metabolism and energy levels; therefore, enhancing the benefits of other weight loss supplements.
As with any weight loss plan or program, discuss your goals, medical issues and “realistic” options with your physician to insure you make a safe choice that meets your individual needs. Again, keep in mind, while there are hundreds of diet and weight loss programs and supplements available, the best and most successful plan begins with an individual’s commitment to making the necessary adjustments of healthy eating habits and exercise programs for a lifetime.
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well.
Vitamin D for Health
By · CommentsVitamin D, the “sunshine” vitamin, has long been known for its help with bone development and strength; however, research and studies have found that Vitamin D could be the answer to many health issues.
Ideally, we get our daily recommended dose of Vitamin D through sun exposure. Keep in mind, this is IF the sun is shining, and we are not wearing sunscreen and enough skin is exposed to direct sunlight. The time needed for an adequate amount of Vitamin D varies from one individual to another. Because people are becoming more conscious of sun damage to the skin, sun exposure is increasingly limited. Also as we age, it is more difficult for our body to convert sun exposure to Vitamin D. Others who are at a greater risk of Vitamin D deficiency are: people who have limited sun exposure, older adults, exclusively breastfed infants, people with darker skin, those with fat malabsorption issues, people who are obese or who have had gastric by-pass surgery.
This simple little vitamin is not so simple after all. It can be instrumental in the prevention and treatment of many health conditions. Insufficient levels of Vitamin D have been linked to:
-depression
-muscle weakness/pain from musculoskeletal disorders
-poor bone health
-cancer
-weak immune system
-high blood pressure
-fibromyalgia
-diabetes
-multiple sclerosis
-rhumatoid arthritis and osteoporisis
-renal osteodystrophy (bone problems related to chronic kidney failure)
-rickets
-various skin conditions (scleroderma, vitiligo, psoriasis)
-heart and blood vessel disorders
Very few foods contain Vitamin D naturally. Tuna, mackeral, salmon and sardines have limited levels of Vitamin D. Food products “fortified with Vitamin D” are available: milk, cereals, and some juices; however, most of the Vitamin D absorbed by the body is through sun exposure. With these facts in mind, it is clear we are at a high risk of insufficient levels of Vitamin D.
Over the counter Vitamin D supplements are available if needed. Blood tests can determine if a person has a Vitamin D deficiency. The correct amount each individual will require to meet their needs may vary based on weight and age. Vitamin D can be life altering in the way you feel from day to day, and certainly, can affect your health in years to come.
Remember, it’s your life…your health…live well.
Floss for Your Heart
By · CommentsYour teeth and heart disease…seriously? We grow up being told to brush and floss our teeth…with a “beautiful” smile and the ability to chew food in mind.
Can there really be a connection between oral health and heart disease?
There has been much focus on the possibility that oral health, especially gum disease, could be linked to heart disease. Studies have shown individuals with higher levels of disease causing bacteria in their mouth were more likely to show signs of serious health conditions related to heart disease. Research continues to determine the specific link between the two; however, studies have consistently revealed when gum disease is an issue, the individual may be twice as likely to develop or already have signs of heart disease.
While we wait for a specific conclusion to the connection between oral health and heart health, let’s make sure we do our best to protect our teeth and our gums; after all, we may be protecting our heart as well (and our smile will be DAZZLING)! Our toothbrush and floss could be two of the “mightiest” weapons we have for a healthy life.
It’s your life…your health…live well.
Don’t Forget Your Brain!
By · CommentsHave you noticed, as you have gotten older, you just do not remember as well? Do you forget what you were going to say…or why you came into a room? I like to think it is because, as I have “matured”, I have retained so much information; I simply cannot process it all! While I like my theory, I must admit, it is just that…my theory…nothing to support my findings…just my little excuse.
Perhaps we have always had some forgetfulness, but as we get older, we certainly pay more attention…and in the back of our minds, is the fear of any type of dementia (memory loss) we may face in the future.
While we cannot stop aging, studies have shown there are ways to keep your mind sharp and decrease memory loss.
- Keep your mind active. New hobbies, a different job, crossword puzzles, and reading are a few activities to keep the brain cells connecting and developing.
- Eat healthy. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits provides anti-oxidants needed to nourish brain cells. Also a healthy diet can decrease risks of cholesterol build-up.
- Exercise. Studies have shown those who exercise have a decreased risk of developing dementia. Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body and to the brain, gives you more energy, and you just feel better.
- Limit your consumption of alcohol, if any. Long term or excessive alcohol use increases risk of dementia, and specifically Alcohol Dementia, impairing memory, learning and other brain functions.
- Stop smoking. Nicotine damages arteries resulting in various medical conditions linked to dementia.
- Decrease stress. Stress can cause anxiety or depression, both impeding mental clarity. When you are stressed your brain releases hormones that can cause damage if continued over a long period of time.
Make the decision, today, to stay healthy…in mind and in body. Your self-care now will play a role in your health for the future. Remember, it is easier to prevent than to repair!
It’s your life…your health…live well!
Antioxidants for Life
By · CommentsAntioxidants…are they really necessary? As a society, we are constantly bombarded with one “life-changing, got to have, can’t live long without” product after another. So how do we decide what we really need for optimal health?
Our bodies are damaged from so many factors: from the normal aging process and stress, to the damage caused by environmental elements we are exposed to daily. Antioxidants help protect our bodies by preventing cell damage and repairing damage that has already been done.
Compare your body to an apple as the peel turns brown or to metal as it begins to rust. As we take in vital oxygen, the oxidative process (damage from oxygen) caused by substances called “free radicals” can lead to cell dysfunction. If left unchecked, free radicals lead to the onset of many health conditions (coronary heart disease, premature aging, inflammatory diseases, Parkinson’s, periodontal disease, and cataracts) thus effecting tissues, organs and body systems, and decreasing immune systems as more molecules are damaged…the theory of why we become fragile as we age.
Antioxidants can slow or prevent the oxidative process…stop the peel from turning brown…the metal from rusting. Antioxidants may improve immune function and lower risks of infection and cancer, ward off dementia, make our muscles stronger and keep our bones and skin healthy, and even slow certain aging processes.
Antioxidants cannot be created in our bodies; they come from diet or supplements. They are natural substances that occur in various fruits and vegetables. There are different types of antioxidants and most work better when paired with other antioxidants. This is known as “synergism”. While a healthy diet, with a variety of fruit and vegetables containing antioxidants is recommended, a supplement is an option for many. Taking an antioxidant supplement alone, or preferable, along with a healthy diet and exercise, will increase your chances of having a “longer round” in the fight of life.
It’s your life…your health…live well!
A New “You” Resolution
By · CommentsAnother “New Year” (they do seem to get here faster)…and it seems everyone is making a New Year’s Resolution. The beginning of the year is certainly a motivator to set goals and make needed changes, whether with your personal life, your job, your health, or your home…any area in your life you would like to improve.
How about a “New YOU Resolution”? Make it personal and about YOU. It is easier to reach your goals when it is something you want or desire versus what someone else wants for you. Certainly, listen to suggestions others may make for you and self-reflect (their concerns could be vital to your overall wellness). Sharing your goals with someone can help keep you accountable. Just remember to be realistic when setting your goals. Reaching small goals will give you the confidence to achieve your bigger goals.
While a new year is a great time to make changes, keep in mind, everyday is an opportunity for new beginnings!
So enjoy this New Year as you pursue your New You Resolutions!
Remember, it’s your life…your health…live well!