Fish Oils: Oil made from processing fish, usually small oily and bony fish.

Benefits

  • Fish oil helps to keep your blood pressure healthy
  • Fish oil helps to keep your level of triglycerides under control
  • Fish oil helps to keep your arterial walls healthy
  • Fish oil helps to maintain healthy endothelial function
  • Fish oil keeps your blood flowing smoothly
  • Fish oil stabilizes plaque
  • Fish oil positively contributes to the bioenergy of the heart muscle.

“I’ve been using omega-3 fish oil for many years in my practice. It’s one supplement that I regard as absolutely essential for maintaining the cardiovascular and overall health of all my patients because the omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) do so many great things in the body.” Dr. Stephen Sinatra-world renowned cardiologist

Omega-3Omega-3s (?-3) are a family of unsaturated fatty acids which have in common a carbon-carbon double bond in the n-3 position; the third bond from the end of the fatty acid. Omega-3s fatty acids are considered essential because the human body requires them but is unable to make sufficient quantities. For this reason, omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained through the diet or supplementation. (Defined by Nordic Naturals) EPA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA 20:5 ?-3)  is an omega-3 essential fatty acid with a 20-carbon chain and five double bonds; the first double bond is located at the third carbon from the omega end. EPA is an essential fatty acid because the human body requires EPA but is unable to make sufficient quantities. Fish oil is the primary dietary source of EPA.  (Defined by Nordic Naturals) DHA-docosahexaenoic acid  (DHA 22:6 ?-3) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid with a 22-carbon chain and six double bonds; the first double bond is located at the third carbon from the omega end. DHA is an essential fatty acid because the human body requires DHA but is unable to make sufficient quantities. Fish oil is the primary dietary source of DHA. (Defined by Nordic Naturals)

How to choose a safe, effective fish oil supplement

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Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, such as sardines, anchovies, salmon and halibut, other seafood including algae and krill, some plants, and nut oils.

Vitamin D: It's your body's only source of calcitriol (activated vitamin D), the most potent steroid hormone in the body.

  • Vitamin D is involved in making hundreds of enzymes and proteins, which are crucial for preserving health and preventing disease
  • It has anti-inflammatory effects and bolsters the immune system
  • It helps the action of insulin and has anti-cancer activity

The only 2 reliable sources of vitamin D are “the sun” and “supplements”

What are the food sources of vitamin D?

  • Fish liver oils, such as cod liver oil. Fatty wild fish like mackerel, salmon, halibut, tuna, sardines, and herring
  • Fortified milk, orange juice, and cereal
  • Dried Shitake mushrooms
  • Egg yolks

Vitamin D3, (cholecalciferol) is the active form of vitamin D, vitamin D2  it is not as biologically active nor as effective, and nor as safe as vitamin D3.

What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

There is no clear pattern of symptoms. In fact, many people remain asymptomatic despite low levels. But here are some of the more common symptoms: (by ZRT Laboratory)

  • Fatigue
  • General muscle pain and weakness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Joint pain
  • Chronic pain
  • High blood pressure
  • Restless sleep
  • Poor concentration
  • Headaches
  • Bladder problems
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Other Benefits of Vitamin D
  • Helps to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus.
  • Assists in the absorption of calcium and promote bone mineralization, which may prevent or slow the progression of osteoporosis.
  • Strengthens the immune system and protects against a number of serious diseases, including rickets and osteomalacia.
  • Plays a role in defending against cancer (studies link a deficiency of vitamin D to as many as 18 different cancers).

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): an antioxidant that is made by the body and is found in every cell, where it helps turn glucose into energy. Antioxidants are substances that attack "free radicals," waste products created when the body turns food into energy. Free radicals cause harmful chemical reactions that can damage cells in the body, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. They also damage organs and tissues.

  • ALA is both fat- and water-soluble meaning it can work throughout the body
  • Evidence suggests ALA may help regenerate antioxidants and make them active again
  • ALA could possibly help with:
  • Peripheral Neuropathy: Mayo Clinic discovered that patients with diabetic neuropathy who received high doses of intravenous ALA had a threefold improvement in pain, numbness and other symptoms, compared with those treated with a placebo
  • Liver Disease:  Helps increase glutathione levels which play a big role in dissolving a toxic substance in the liver, allowing it to possibly treat and detox liver
  • Brain Function: can pass easily into the brain and has protective effects on brain and nerve tissue.  Potential treatment for stroke and other brain disorders involving free radical damage. Preliminary research shows that animals treated with ALA suffered less brain damage and had four-times greater survival rate after a stroke than animals who didn't receive this supplement. More research is needed to understand whether this benefit applies to people as well. (Research by Maryland Medical Center)

Where Can You Find Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Alpha lipoic acid is manufactured by the body and is found in small amounts in several foods. These include spinach, broccoli, peas, Brewer's yeast, Brussels sprouts, rice bran, potatoes and organ meats (kidney, heart and liver). The effectiveness of the low levels of ALA obtained by eating these foods hasn't been proven. Concentrated amounts of ALA are available--without a prescription--in capsule form from health food stores and online sites.

Precautions

Side effects of alpha lipoic acid are generally rare. According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, low doses of lipoic acid, such as 5 to 20 mg, show no side effects. But higher doses could cause skin rash, nausea or stomach upset, along with nervousness, fatigue, and insomnia. If you're deficient in thiamine (vitamin B1), a condition often associated with alcoholism, you shouldn't take alpha lipoic acid.

Possible Interactions

If you're currently being treated with any of the following medications, you shouldn't use alpha lipoic acid without first talking to your health-care provider:

Insulin and drugs that lower blood sugar - Alpha lipoic acid can combine with these drugs to further reduce blood sugar levels, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Tell your doctor before taking lipoic acid, and monitor your blood sugar levels closely; your doctor may need to adjust your medication doses.

References:

A.D.A.M., Inc., "Alpha-lipoic acid," University of Maryland Medical Center

McMackin, C.J., et al., "Effect of combined treatment with alpha-Lipoic acid and acetyl-L-carnitine on vascular function and blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease," J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2007 Apr;9(4):249-55

Kirchheimer, Sid, "Antioxidant Soothes Diabetic Neuropathy," WebMD, April 11, 2003

Berkson, Burton M., MD, MS, Ph.D., "Alpha Lipoic Acid and Liver Disease," Townsend Letter, December 2007

Sahelian, Ray, M.D., Alpha Lipoic Acid supplement benefit, side effects, use for blood sugar, Diabetes Information

Oregon State University, "Lipoic Acid Explored As Anti-aging Compound" ScienceDaily, May 18, 2007

The Vitamin B Family: they facilitate the metabolization of food for energy and foster many bodily processes that pertain to physical and mental functions, energy, and proper nerve functioning. “B” vitamins are water soluble, meaning they travel through the bloodstream.  Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): helps fuel your body by converting blood sugar into energy. It keeps your mucous membranes healthy and is essential for nervous system, cardiovascular and muscular function. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): works with other vitamins in the B complex to process calories from carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Your body needs it for growth and red cell production, and adequate riboflavin intake promotes healthy skin and good vision. Vitamin B3 (Niacin): it is important for converting calories from protein, fat, and carbohydrates into energy. But it also helps the digestive system function and promotes a normal appetite and healthy skin and nerves. Larger doses of niacin sometimes more than 1,000 milligrams a day have also been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (the 'bad' cholesterol that clogs the heart's arteries) and triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol (the 'good' cholesterol that prevents hardening of the artery walls).

However, you should only take increased doses of niacin under the supervision of a physician. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats for energy. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): helps brain function and helps the body convert protein to energy. Some research has shown that vitamin B6 works with folic acid and B12 to reduce levels of homocysteine (an amino acid) in the blood. Elevated homocysteine levels can increase a person's risk of heart attack. Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid): is important for the production and maintenance of new cells. This is especially necessary during both pregnancy and infancy when cell growth is extremely rapid. Both adults and children need folic acid to make normal red blood cells and to prevent anemia. Having enough folic acid in early pregnancy can prevent birth defects, including problems with the spine (neural tube defects) and brain. Women who become pregnant and don't consume enough folate are also more likely to have babies who have low birth weight or are premature.

Vitamin B12(Cobalamine): works with folic acid to produce healthy red blood cells. Vitamin B12 also keeps your central nervous system healthy. References: Life Clinic Personal Health Management “Vitamin B’s”Co-Enzyme Q-10 (COQ10): produced by the human body (in mitochondria of every cell) and is necessary for the basic functioning of cells. CoQ10 levels are reported to decrease with age and to be low in patients with some chronic diseases such as heart conditions, muscular dystrophies, Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS. Some prescription drugs (Statins) may also lower CoQ10 levels. Support Healthy Plasma/Tissue CoQ10 Levels Reduced by Aging, Clinical Conditions Associated With Low Plasma CoQ10 levels, Low Energy Syndromes, Genetic Disorders and Drugs that Interfere with CoQ10 and or Energy Production.

Supports Healthy Cardiovascular System
Supports Healthy Neuromuscular and CNS function
Supports a Healthy Immune System

Support for Healthy gums help boost Athletic Performance and Improve Exercise Tolerance in Individuals with Muscular DystrophyCOQ10 could help maintain a strong healthy HEART! References:

Mayo Clinic:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coenzyme-q10/NS_patient-coenzymeq10Xymogen: http://www.xymogen.com/2008/formula.asp?code=000109 Iodine: is an element that is needed for the production of thyroid hormone.  According to the American Thyroid Association, if you do not have enough iodine in your body, you cannot make enough thyroid hormone.  The body does not make iodine, so it is an essential part of your diet.  Iodine deficiency can lead to enlargement of the thyroid (goiter), hypothyroidism and to mental retardation in infants and children whose mothers were iodine deficient during pregnancy. What are the symptoms of iodine deficiency?

All of the symptoms of iodine deficiency are related to its effect on the thyroid: Goiter - Without adequate iodine, the thyroid progressively enlarges (develops a goiter) as it tries to keep up with demand for thyroid hormone production. Worldwide, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of thyroid enlargement and goiter. Within a goiter, nodules can develop. Patients with a large goiter may experience symptoms of choking, especially when lying down, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. Hypothyroidism – As the body’s iodine levels fall, hypothyroidism may develop, since iodine is essential for making thyroid hormone. While this is uncommon in the United States, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide.  Pregnancy-related problems - Iodine deficiency is especially important in women who are pregnant or nursing their infants. Severe iodine deficiency in the mother has been associated with miscarriages, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and congenital abnormalities in their babies.

Children of mothers with severe iodine deficiency during pregnancy can have mental retardation and problems with growth, hearing, and speech. In the most severe form, an underactive thyroid can result in cretinism (a syndrome characterized by permanent brain damage, mental retardation, deaf-mutism, spasticity, and short stature), though this is not seen in the United States. Congenital hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency is the most common preventable cause of mental retardation in the world. Even mild iodine deficiency during pregnancy, which may be present in some women in the United States, may be associated with low intelligence in children. What are the causes of iodine deficiency?  Since the body does not make iodine, it relies on the diet to have enough iodine. Thus, iodine deficiency is caused but not having enough iodine in the diet. Iodine is present naturally in soil and seawater. The availability of iodine in foods differs in various regions of the world. Individuals in the United States can maintain adequate iodine in their diet by using iodized table salt (unless they have to restrict the amount of salt in their diet), by eating foods high in iodine, particularly dairy products, seafood, meat, some breads, and eggs, and by taking a multivitamin containing iodine. However, the amount of iodine in foods is not listed on food packaging in the U.S., and it can be difficult to identify sources of iodine in foods. All cells in the body need iodine for proper functioning.

All glands (thyroid, adrenal, etc.) especially need iodine for the production of hormones. Dr. Brownstein believes that iodine deficiency is a major cause of breast cancer and other diseases of the reproductive organs such as ovarian, uterus and prostate cysts and cancers. Iodine levels in US soil have fallen 50 percent over the past 50 years and soil in the US is deficient in iodine. The Great Lakes region has some of lowest soil iodine levels in the world and this results in high levels of cancers related to iodine deficiency. Dr. Brownstein has been quite successful in treating fibrocystic breast disease (cysts in the breast) with iodine/iodine supplementation. The World Health Organization says that iodine deficiency is the largest single cause of mental retardation. Iodine also detoxifies the body by removing mercury, fluorides, chlorides, and bromides.

References:  American Thyroid Foundation:http://www.thyroid.org/patients/patient_brochures/iodine_deficiency.html

Vitamin C Foundation: Iodine Deficiency (Copyright 2005 By Robert Sarver)http://www.vitamincfoundation.org/iodine.htm  Multi-Vitamins and Minerals: used to provide vitamins that are not taken in through the diet. Multivitamins are also used to treat vitamin deficiencies (lack of vitamins) caused by illness, pregnancy, poor nutrition, digestive disorders, and many other conditions. Choosing a quality multivitamin ensures that you get a natural and more absorbable form of vitamins and minerals rather than manmade synthetic forms.  Multivitamins like the one XYMOGEN puts out is one that contains a quality natural form of vitamins and minerals that could help with the many deficiencies that are linked to many immune disorders and diseases.  Active Nutrients™ is a high quality, hypoallergenic, balanced, proprietary multivitamin-mineral blend in easy-to-swallow vegetable capsules. Activated vitamin co-factors and patented Albion® chelated mineral complexes assure maximum absorption and utilization at the cellular level. Foundation Nutrition for a Variety of Protocols Basic “Insurance” Formula for WellnessAntioxidant ProtectionDetoxification Support Poor Dietary Nutrient IntakeStressful Lifestyle