Yeast: A Candid(a) Approach
By · CommentsNo energy, bloated, aching, can’t lose weight…do any of these symptoms sound like you? Let me tell you a little secret…these are just a few of the LIFE-ALTERING daily symptoms associated with elevated yeast (candida albicans) in our body. Yeast…simple and necessary… yet devastating if not treated and controlled!
Naturally produced by the body, yeasts are single-celled organisms that live on the skin surface and inside the digestive tract. Candida albicans is one form of these microscopic yeast organisms. While yeast is vital for the normal functioning of our digestive system, an overgrowth of yeast results in an imbalance of our body’s healthy flora (beneficial bacteria). An over abundance of yeast can be linked to our diet, antibiotics, some medications, or a weakened immune system. Regardless of the source, elevated yeast can alter our life EVERYDAY. Symptoms associated with an elevated yeast level can include:
*Difficulty losing weight or weight gain
*Abdominal bloating, pain or gas
*Dry mouth, bleeding gums, cracked tongue
*Thrush
*Constipation, diarrhea, mucous in stools
*Persistent vaginal itching or burning
*Unusual menstrual cramping
*recurrent urinary tract infections
*Joint or muscle pain/swelling
*Athlete’s foot
*headaches
*Fatigue
*Mild depression, poor concentration, mood swings
*Craving sweets or breads
*Bad breath
While antibiotics and some medications are unavoidable, the most effective way to avoid an overgrowth of yeast is to adjust your diet and to use supplements that support a healthy Candida level. Candida thrives on sugar; therefore, limit your sugar intake (including honey, molasses, syrup, fruit, fruit juices, sweeteners and refined carbohydrates). Also avoid or limit your use of mold and fermented foods (catsup, mustard, vinegar, cheese, buttermilk) and yeast products (they can irritate existing yeast sensitivity). While it may not be realistic to avoid all of these food items, being aware of your food choices and the impact they can have on your day to day health, will lead to smarter selections and substitutions.
Health supplements can help control a “normal” yeast level. When searching for a health supplement, a few key ingredients to look for include Oregano Extract (antioxidant and antifungal), Caprylic Acid (dissolves the cell membrane of yeast), Protease (assists in digestion of protein), Black Walnut Hulls (antifungal, antiseptic, and parasitic) and Cellulase (removes undigested fiber). The combination of these powerful ingredients can assist with restoring and maintaining a healthy Candida level.
This “minuscule” organism can become a gigantic threat to your everyday life!
Recognizing the signs, symptoms and lifestyle choices associated with yeast overgrowth is the first step to treatment.
Remember…its your life…your health…live well!
No More Gray! (repost)
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!
A “Mid-Body” Crisis (re-post)
By · CommentsBelly fat, thick stomach, spare tire…whichever you choose to call it, a fat stomach is a “huge” health risk. While you may not like the way it looks or the way your clothes fit (or don’t fit) around it, the physical appearance is not the greatest concern. Belly fat can be the onset to many health complications and even premature death.
As we age and our metabolism slows, we begin to gain weight in our stomach and waist area. For women, the onset of menopause increases the tendency to gain weight in the mid-section because fat will re-distribute. Women may find they gain weight in the stomach first as compared to previously seeing weight gain in other areas of their body.
And even more disturbing is the fat we need to most be concerned about, we CANNOT EVEN SEE! The visceral (fat) cells are found in the deepest fat layer of our stomach area, putting pressure on and surrounding our organs. These fat cells can even produce hormones and other substances that interfere with the healthy functioning of our organs.
Health complications related to belly fat can include:
-cardiovascular disease
-some forms of cancer
-diabetes
-sleep apnea
-gall bladder problems
-migraines
Having a large stomach is so much more than uncomfortable and unattractive, it is deadly!
While genetics may play a role in your abdominal weight gain, it can frequently be attributed to actual weight and diet. Keeping a low body fat ratio will decrease belly fat and bring about overall decreased body fat content. If you need to lose weight, cut back on your calorie intake. Try to maintain a diet rich in whole grains, and food choices with a high ratio of monounsaturated fats (nuts, seeds, chocolate…). Both of these can help the body rid itself of that deep layer of fat. And if you feel you need extra help, there are natural supplements available to assist with targeting the stomach area and weight loss.
Exercise is a key factor to reducing belly fat and maintaining an overall healthy body size (not to mention getting rid of those extra pounds). Aerobic/high intensity exercise is best when targeting the stomach area: weight training and muscle building increases progress. Another perk, exercise is a de-stressor, which leads to a decrease in cortisol and insulin (key contributors to belly fat).
Again, as we so often say, we cannot control Mother Nature and the aging process, but we can make choices that help us stay healthier and reduce the impact of aging. It is much easier to STAY healthy if we choose this lifestyle and practice it everyday than having to “damage control” and try to undo the shock of years of unhealthy living.
Remember, we have one body for this life…protect it. It’s your life…Live well.
Acai Berry: For Health, Wellness and Weight Loss
By · CommentsIf you have been within hearing distance of a television, radio or searched the internet, then you have seen or heard about Acai Berry. Its popularity has increased significantly over the past few years. While this “super berry” may be new to us, it has actually been available for centuries!
Native to South and Central America, the healing powers of the Acai Berry have long been used by the indigenous peoples of these areas for vitality, wellness and health. Known for its deep rich color and powerful antioxidant benefits, the nutritional content of the Acai berry is phenomenal. Packed with flavonoids called anthocyanins, Acai berry also provides Vitamin B1, B2, B3, Vitamin C, Phosphorus, Calcium, Potassium, fiber, protein and Omega 6 and 9.
Anthocyanins are vital to the body’s defense against everyday stressors and protect the cell system. This powerful antioxidant decreases inflammation, lowers bad cholesterol, increases good cholesterol, promotes improved vision, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. The potent combination of anthocyanins and vitamins in Acai berry plays a role in its anti-aging benefits. Because Acai berry contains a rich source of dietary fiber and protein as well as Omega 6 and 9, it protects the heart, the cardiovascular system and the immune system.
Additional benefits derived from this “superberry” include:
• Assists with weight loss
• Improved mental clarity and alertness
• Improved sleep
• Relieves joint and arthritis pain
• Promotes prostate health
• Prevents alzheimers
• Cleans body of toxins
• Assists with thyroid health
• Prevents cancer
• Increases energy
While better health is a goal we all want to achieve, Acai berry is clearly a safe, convenient step in a “healthy” direction. The combination of vitamins and antioxidants naturally found within the Acai berry can provide the body with much needed nutrition for so many health issues.
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well.
Defend Your Skin!
By · CommentsSummer time…lazy days, relaxing in the sun; winter days…cold, brisk sunshine…refreshing! Damaging skin…all year round!
We certainly associate sun damage with spring and summer but we are actually at risk ALL YEAR LONG. If the sun is shining, we are getting sun damage. While you may not give sun exposure too much thought, it might be time to “re-evaluate” your attitude.
When we “bask” in the warmth of the sun (or tanning bed), the ultraviolet light penetrates our skin and destroys living cells that normally make new skin. Whether an “attractive” tan or painful sunburn, the real danger is the slow accumulation of damage to your skin over the years (most long term damage occurs before our twenties). This damage results in our cells becoming dysfunctional, reducing the production of elastin and collagen, thinning the top layer of skin, affecting the pigmentation and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Most of the “aging” of our skin is a result of UV damage, not our age. With the breakdown of the connective tissue (elastin and collagen), our skin loses its strength and flexibility; bringing the onset of wrinkles, creases and loose skin. If you want to compare your “damaged” skin, look at the areas of your body that are not exposed to sun damage (or tanning beds) as compared to the areas that have been exposed to UV radiation.
There are steps we can take to protect our skin from ultra violet light:
* Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and then re-apply every few hours
* Wear a hat and long sleeves when out in the sun for long periods
* Avoid direct sun during peak UV radiation hours between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
* Wear sunglasses with total UV protection
* Select contact lenses and cosmetics with UV protection
* Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen
* Hydrate your skin with moisturizers (RaNisa Naturals Collagen Complete)
* Use topical retinoids (Vitamin A products)
* Be familiar with the moles and freckles on your body and look for any changes
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well.
CoQ10: Energy for the Body!
By · CommentsCoQ10…another antioxidant that you must have… do you ever get tired of hearing about what is necessary to be healthier? How can we need so much, when for decades, all of the “must haves” were not even an option? While we may feel bombarded with so many supplement options, clearly they must be helping. We are living longer and have healthier lifestyles than the generations before us…SO let me fill you in on the importance of CoQ10!
Our entire body needs energy to function; however, our major organs require the most. Mitochondria cells convert sugars and fats into energy; actually, they produce about 95 % of the energy necessary for our body to function. CoQ10 is an enzyme that occurs naturally in almost every cell in our body and CoQ10 is found in EACH mitochondria cell! Without an adequate level of CoQ10, our entire body and its organ function would be disrupted.
While our levels of CoQ10 decrease with age, certain medications can also impact our CoQ10 levels. A deficiency in CoQ10 will affect the basic metabolic functioning of our cells; consequently, impacting our overall health!
CoQ10 has been linked with treating and preventing many health issues:
• Heart Attack
• High Blood Pressure
• Diabetes
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Counteract Prescription Medication Effects
• Heart Failure
• Cholesterol
• Nerve Function
• Anti-Aging
• Cancer Recovery/Remission
Whether you are fifty, eighty, or in your twenties, CoQ10 can have a positive impact on your health and wellness!
It’s your life…your health…live well!
Keep It Fresh!
By · CommentsAs the garden season approaches, we look forward to our “fresh” vegetables and fruit. While an excellent choice for your health, here are a few tips to make sure your fresh produce STAYS fresh and healthy for you.
*Inspect produce to insure there are no bruised or damaged areas and that fresh-cut produce (packaged salads and pre-cut produce…) is refrigerated at the store.
*Clean your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds BEFORE handling produce. Clean all utensils and surfaces with hot water and soap. Clean produce by rinsing with tap water.
*Fruits and vegetables should be kept separated from raw meat, poultry, seafood, and from household chemicals. This can be done by using separate bags (while at the store) and separate containers/compartments in the refrigerator. Do not use the same cutting board without thoroughly cleaning with hot water and soap.
*Either throw away or cook vegetables and fruits that have touched poultry, seafood, raw meat or their juices.
*Refrigerate all peeled, cooked or cut vegetables within 2 hours.
*Throw out any damaged or bruised portions of produce before eating them raw or prior to cooking them.
**A tip to remember…If in doubt, throw it out!!!
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well!
Spring Fever?
By · CommentsSpring is here! Allergies are here! Sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose…the blooming of a new allergy season. While we look forward to spring and all of its beauty, the “side effects” can certainly take away the joy!
Pollen…the culprit to all of our allergy misery! As weeds, trees and grass begin to “come to life” again, small grains (pollen) are released in the air. When pollen enters the body, it triggers our immune system to release antibodies. These antibodies respond to the allergens just as if they are attacking a virus or other illness-causing bacteria. When the antibodies attack the allergens, the body releases chemicals called histamines into the bloodstream. With the release of these histamines, we begin to have the runny nose, itchy eyes…the full assault of the allergy season!
As discussed in a previous blog, there are preventives to this misery. Both over the counter and prescription supplements are available, and most effective, if taken BEFORE the onset of allergy symptoms. Some people choose allergy shots to prevent reactions to seasonal changes. And remember these tips:
• Keep windows closed and limit being outside when pollen is at its peak during the day.
• Keep car windows closed and use air conditioner (to avoid circulating pollen through vents)
• Take advantage of pollen reports for your area.
• Do not dry clothing or sheets outside. (pollen can collect in clothing)
• Shower at night to remove any pollen/spores from skin and hair.
• Don’t mow the grass if you have allergy symptoms.
• Clean the air ducts and vents often.
• Vacuum at least twice a week (pollen can get trapped in carpet)
• Wear a mask when outside or even while vacuuming (to reduce breathing in pollen and dust)
•
While these suggestions may not completely stop your allergy symptoms, hopefully it will allow you to have a little “Spring Fever” …in an enjoyable way!
Remember…it’s your life…your health…live well!
Blueberry Leaf Extract: A Healthy Antioxidant Choice
By · CommentsBlueberry Leaf Extract is a safe anti-oxidant supplement with many health benefits.
While the fruit can be used in various ways, the nutrients derived offer a healthy choice for us.
Blueberry Leaf Extract has been well known for its ability to assist with healthy blood sugar levels when taken daily. Not only can Blueberry Leaf Extract lower blood sugar, it can even assist with preventing diabetes. Blueberry Leaf Extract contains Caffeoylquinic acid, a compound thought to reduce the enzyme used to alter sugars found in foods to blood sugar for our body. When this enzyme is repressed, there is a decrease in converted glucose resulting in less in the bloodstream. The impact can be beneficial for those trying to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.
Blueberry Leaf Extract can also reduce inflammation related to cardiovascular disease; reduce damage caused by diabetes, lower triglycerides that lead to high cholesterol and heart disease, and even guard against Alzheimers and other brain related illnesses.
Blueberry Leaf Extract is a simple choice with overall lasting and profound health benefits.
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.