Vitamins,
minerals, supplements & health
Q: Why can't I get everything I need from my diet?
A: There
are several reasons for this. First, remember that as a society, our dietary
habits have changed over the past couple of generations. A healthy diet
consists of plenty of fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Fruits and
vegetables should be preferably fresh; fresh frozen is still good but
not as good as "off the farm" fresh! Recent studies indicate
that the majority of meals in the US are eaten in restaurants rather than
in the home. Restaurant food tends to be too high in fat and sugar. Additionally,
convenience foods now make up a much higher percentage of the average
diet than in the past. In some people well over 60% of their food is from
so-called "empty" calorie foods (candy, sweets, chips, or other
highly processed foods that contain very little real nutritional value
other than calories). Remember that the more highly processed a food is,
the more likely it is to have a low nutritional value.
Another factor
is the high stresses found in today's fast-paced and busy life. The greater
the external stresses, the higher the nutritional demands on the body.
Eating a poor-quality diet robs you of the nutritional factors necessary
to help you stay healthy.
Lastly, many
people are simply unaware of how to shop for healthy foods. Convenience
and taste become the major criteria for food selection, while nutritional
value is given little attention, if any at all.
Many nutritional
researchers point to the rising problems of obesity, diabetes, heart disease
and other diseases of modern society as evidence of the deteriorating
quality of the diet most people consume. If you have questions about your
diet, it is important that you discuss them with your healthcare provider
on your next visit.
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Q: Where do vitamins come from?
A: Vitamins
are substances found in food that are required by your body to convert
the food into energy. Since we cannot manufacture these substances, we
need to get them from our diet. Unfortunately, the foods that many of
us choose to eat have had most of the vitamins processed out. As many
as thirty or forty vitamins and minerals may be taken out of our food,
a dozen added back, and the food is then called "enriched."
Generally the richest source of vitamins and minerals comes from fresh
fruits, vegetables and grains; the worst sources are snack foods such
as candy, chips, or highly-processed white flour bread or bakery items.
While these may be OK in small quantities, they make up a significant
proportion of many peoples' diet, which may put them at risk to nutritional
deficiencies.
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Q: What do vitamins do in the body?
A: In order
to accomplish all of the thousands of day-to-day functions of your body,
the food you eat every day must be converted into energy and raw materials
(building blocks for muscles, bones, ligaments enzymes, hormones, and
so on). To do all this, vitamins are required. Since we humans lack the
ability to manufacture these critical nutrients in our bodies, we have
to get them in our diet.
Generally,
vitamins perform three major functions:
1. They are "cofactors" and catalysts for enzymes, which means
they are required for the enzymes to do their jobs. The B-complex vitamins
B1 and B2, for example are required for every function in the body that
requires production of energy (which means every function!)
2. They act as antioxidants, which means they prevent highly reactive
molecules called free radicals from damaging delicate cell membrane structure.
Vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants, protecting cell membranes
from free radicals.
3. They act as "pre-hormones." For example, vitamin D functions
as a hormone to facilitate calcium uptake and utilization.
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Q: What do minerals do in the body?
A: Minerals
have very many important functions; life could not exist without them.
Iron is required for the manufacture of the chemical hemoglobin, which
carries oxygen in the blood to all the cells of the body. Calcium is necessary
for strong bones, and for transmission of messages within cells and from
cell to cell. Magnesium is required for production of energy from the
food you eat; and a selenium-containing molecule protects the body from
damage by free radicals.
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Q: What are antioxidants?
A: Antioxidants
are a group of chemical compounds that protect against free radicals.
Free radicals are highly reactive molecules produced naturally, or induced
by exposure to things like radiation, certain chemical pollutants, or
other sources. When free radicals come into contact with healthy cell
membranes, they cause damage to the membrane and may ultimately cause
the cell to die. Antioxidants prevent this damage by "quenching"
the free radical and thus helping maintain health and proper function
of the cell. In food, antioxidants are often the substances that give
food their color or strong flavor; this is why choosing a naturally "colorful"
diet can be a very healthy idea!
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Q: Why is it necessary to take vitamin supplements
to be healthy?
A: The simplest
answer is because most people eat a poor diet. Studies show that the average
diet in the US consists of too much fat, too much sugar, not enough fiber
and not enough fresh fruits and vegetables. We are eating plenty of calories,
but they are often "empty" calories, meaning that they have
very low levels of the essential vitamins and minerals we need to stay
healthy. Since the majority of meals in the US are currently eaten in
restaurants or "on the run" it makes good sense to take a vitamin
supplement to fill in the gaps in our diet.
While it
is important to remember the value of a nutritional supplement in maintaining
health, we should never think that taking a supplement replaces a good
diet. In other words, the first and by far most important step is to improve
the quality of our diet, and then take a supplement as a nutritional insurance
policy to make sure we get all we need.
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Q: In order to stay healthy, what is a good basic supplement
program?
A: Each person
is unique, so each person's nutritional needs would also be unique to
them. Having said that, a prudent course of action to stay healthy would
begin with eating a healthy diet. This means to avoid highly processed
foods (candies, snack foods, convenience foods), or foods high in refined
sugar or flour, as these tend to have low levels of important vitamins
and minerals. A high quality multiple vitamin-mineral supplement is helpful
to "fill in the gaps" in the diet. While other nutrients also
may be helpful, it is important to remember our individuality and discuss
the specific additional nutrients you might need with your nutritionally-oriented
health care practitioner.
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Q: Are vitamins safe to take?
A: Generally,
Yes, in the ranges that most vitamins are available as supplements. Vitamins
are divided into two categories: fat soluble and water soluble. The water
soluble vitamins (B vitamins and vitamin C) cannot be stored by the body,
so they are generally quite safe, even in quantities higher than you would
normally get in your diet. The fat soluble vitamins such as vitamins A
or D can be stored by the body, so it is possible to build up a level
that could be harmful. It is therefore important that you discuss ALL
your vitamin consumption with your healthcare provider, to make sure you
are getting the optimal amount for your health while not running the risk
of taking more than would be safe for you.
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Q: Are minerals safe to take?
A: While
the levels of most vitamins and minerals recommended by your healthcare
practitioner is considered safe, remember that too much of anything can
be potentially harmful. Even such life-sustaining things as water and
sunlight have an upper limit of safety. While certain minerals such as
calcium are generally quite safe even when taken in relatively high amounts,
your body's requirements for other minerals such as iron or selenium are
much lower and therefore have a smaller safety range as well. Be sure
and inform your healthcare provider of all supplements, herbs or medications
you are taking so the optimal levels can be determined for you, including
an adequate safety margin.
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Q: Are herbs safe to take?
A: Most herbs,
when used according to longstanding herbal traditions, are not only effective
but safe. Herbs have been used in the treatment and support of human health
for thousands of years. During that time much has been learned about what
herbs can do, how to prepare them and which herbs are to be used for what
purposes. In the hands of an experienced and qualified professional, herbs
can work wonders! But herbs contain complex chemicals that, when used
improperly, can cause harm as well. It is important to remember that the
fact that herbs do work also means that they cause chemical changes in
the body (that's how they work!) and that sometimes those changes may
not be what is desired. Caution is particularly advised during pregnancy,
when taking herbs and pharmaceutical medications together, or when taking
herbs for extended periods of time. For these reasons, it is always advisable
to discuss all herbs or supplements you are taking (or considering whether
to take) with your health care practitioner.
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Q: Are vitamins safe during pregnancy?
A: Most vitamins
are safe during pregnancy; in fact that is precisely the time when they
are most needed! Not only must your diet support the mother's health and
vitality, but that of her developing baby as well. A deficiency of certain
nutrients (such as vitamin B12 or folic acid) during the early stages
of pregnancy has been shown to significantly increase the risk to birth
defects such as spina bifida.
There is
some animal evidence however that high levels of other vitamins may increase
risk to birth defects. Vitamin A for example has been shown in dosages
higher than 8,000 IU to increase risk. For that reason it is not advisable
to take high levels of vitamins during pregnancy without first consulting
your healthcare provider.
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Q: What is a "megavitamin?"
A: A megavitamin
is the term applied to a nutritional supplement that contains levels of
vitamins and minerals much higher than what would normally be obtained
from your diet.
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Q: Are minerals safe during pregnancy?
A: As is
true with vitamins, most minerals are safe (and even required) during
pregnancy. Minerals have a relatively narrower safety margin than do vitamins,
but still significantly broader than do almost all pharmaceutical drugs.
But unless research has specifically addressed a mineral's relative safety
during pregnancy, it is not advisable to take amounts beyond what would
be in a normal, healthy diet. If you are pregnant, be sure and discuss
any supplement or herbal product you are considering with your healthcare
provider.
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Q: Are herbs safe during pregnancy?
A: Less research
has been done on herb use during pregnancy than on vitamins or minerals,
but it is helpful to recall that herbs have been in use for hundreds and
even thousands of years (long before isolated vitamins, minerals or prescription
pharmaceuticals were available!) While research is beginning to establish
safety in humans during pregnancy (echinacea for immunity and ginger for
nausea, for example), it is generally not advised to take herbs during
this time, unless specifically directed by your healthcare practitioner.
As is true at all times, but especially during pregnancy or while nursing,
be sure and discuss these questions with your healthcare provider.
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Manufacturing
and quality of nutritional supplements
Q: What are tablet excipients?
A: Tablet
excipients are agents used during the tableting process to help the powder
flow through the equipment without sticking, or to improve the tablets'
consistency, compressibility, or other desired characteristics.
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Q: What do tablet "binders and fillers"
do?
A: Binders
and fillers are used during the tableting process to ensure that the tablet
sticks together properly rather than crumbling in the bottle. For example,
some vitamins are oils and others are powders. Binders, fillers and excipients
help ensure the bulk powder flows smoothly through the equipment without
caking or gumming, and helps make sure the tablet size and hardness are
consistent.
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Q: Are tablet excipients, binders or fillers good
or bad?
A: It depends.
Some excipients, binders or fillers are bad, because they can contribute
to unwanted reactions in some people. Others are neutral (meaning they
are neither digested nor absorbed), but they improve tablet function
by
ensuring it breaks down when it supposed to. The highest quality ingredients
in a nutritional supplement could be useless if the tablet doesn't
disintegrate
properly, or crumbles in the bottle. It is also important to remember
that excipients can be made of natural, vegetable materials that are
unlikely
to contribute to any health problems of the patient, or they can be made
from other chemicals that may cause problems for some people. Artificial
colors, dyes, preservatives or coating agents have been implicated for
years as possible concerns. A reputable company producing high quality
nutritional supplements will exercise great care in the selection of
tableting agents to ensure consistent quality throughout the product,
not just in
the raw material selection.
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Q: Why are tablet excipients necessary?
A: Tableting
agents and excipients are required to ensure quality control in the tablet-manufacturing
process. Tableting is part art and part science. Knowing how even small
differences in temperature and humidity will affect the tableting process
requires years of experience to develop. Tablet excipients help ensure
that the bulk powder flows smoothly through the equipment, and that the
tablets are of the right consistency so they will break down in your body
as predicted.
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Q: Are capsules better than tablets?
A: Capsules
have some advantages in certain uses, but tablets have proven advantageous
in others. For example, capsules increase the cost to the end user, it
generally takes more capsules to contain the nutrients found in tablets,
if the bottle is allowed to get too warm the capsules can melt or stick
together, and the capsules have to be digested (broken down) before the
nutrients inside can be released. On the "plus" side, capsules
are generally easier to swallow, you can't tablet a liquid (which thus
MUST be in capsules), and capsules can be made opaque to protect delicate
and easily-lost nutrients (such as CQ 10). A reputable company will not
be tied exclusively to capsules OR tablets, but will select the delivery
method that is most appropriate to the nutrient and the marketplace, considering
all variables in the selection process.
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Q: What is stearic acid and from what is it derived?
A: Stearic
acid is an essential saturated fatty acid that is found in all vegetable,
seed, nut and animal oils. Although stearic acid can be from several sources,
the most common source in better quality nutritional supplements is vegetable
stearic acid.
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Q: Why is stearic acid used in tablet manufacturing?
A: During
tablet manufacturing certain substance such as stearic acid are use to
help powders flow smoothly through the tableting machines and to help
the tablets hold their shape. Stearic acid is an ideal fatty acid to use
because it is naturally occurring in food, is inert and therefore does
not interfere with the proper utilization or absorption of the active
ingredients in the tablet.
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Q: Does stearic acid interfere with the absorption
of vitamins and minerals?
A: No. There
is no evidence that stearic acid, in the levels used in tablet manufacturing,
in any way interferes with or blocks breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
Remember that the amount of stearic acid used in a tablet is much less
than would be obtained from a salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing.
(Olive oil is a source of stearic acid).
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Q: What does "bioavailability" mean?
A: Bioavailability
refers to the potential a product has to be absorbed into the bloodstream
and have the desired impact on the consumer. In other words, a product
with very high quality raw materials but is made in such a way that the
tablet doesn't break down properly would have low bioavailability and
would thus not do the patient any good. Disintegration time is an example
of a test that measures aspects of bioavailability; it is the time it
takes under controlled conditions for a tablet to break down completely.
If a supplement breaks down when it is supposed to, there is a greater
likelihood that it will be absorbed into the system.
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Q: How can I tell if a vitamin-mineral supplement
is of high quality?
A: It is
difficult to tell quality simply by looking at a tablet. Many factors
(most of which are hidden to the naked eye) go into a high quality nutritional
supplement, but the three main variables are
1)the quality
of the science behind the product
2)the quality of the ingredients themselves
3)the quality of the manufacturing process.
Quality of
the science behind the product: the human body has often been compared
to an extremely complex and wonderfully efficient machine. To function
normally, it is extremely dependent upon a large variety of raw materials
such as protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and so forth.
If any of these critical substances are lacking in sufficient quantities,
the efficiency of the "machine" suffers. The therapeutic use
of nutrition supplements usually involves combining as many of these rate-limiting
nutrients together as economically and physically possible, to provide
everything required to focus on a particular health goal. If the nutritional
supplement is poorly designed, key nutrients may be left out, or less
important "window dressing" may be added that don't bring significant
additional benefit. The product may then be inadequate to meet the therapeutic
goals, or may be more expensive than needed. A reputable company will
be able to provide scientific studies to support the formulation and its
therapeutic value.
Quality of
the ingredients: the same nutrient may be available in different forms.
For example, vitamin E can be a natural (derived from food) or it can
be synthetic (manufactured). The natural, food-identical vitamin E is
called d-alpha tocopherol, while the synthetic form is called dl-alpha
tocopherol. That "l" in the dl-alpha tocopherol is the only
way you can tell a natural from a synthetic vitamin E by looking at the
label, but science has shown that there is a significant difference in
the way the body uses it. Natural vitamin E is significantly better in
its biological activity that the synthetic. Another example is found in
minerals such as calcium or iron. Minerals are not found alone in supplements
but as chemical compounds. The nature of that compound is related to the
ability of the body to absorb and use the mineral. For example, calcium
may be found as "calcium carbonate" which is inexpensive but
relatively more difficult to absorb. Other forms of calcium, such as calcium
citrate or MCHC (microcrystalline hydroxyapatite) may be more expensive
as raw materials, but may also be much better utilized by the body. A
manufacturer of high quality products will be able to provide documentation
from the scientific literature on the specific ingredients selected that
will help to explain their superiority.
Quality of
the manufacturing process: even if the supplement is well-formulated and
has high quality ingredients, care must still be exercised during the
manufacturing process to ensure a quality finished product. If the supplement
doesn't break down properly during the digestive process it doesn't matter
how well it's designed or what is used as ingredients! A manufacturer
of high-quality nutritional supplements will perform a number of different
tests before, during and after the tableting process to ensure quality
in the finshed product, and should be able to provide you with documentation
to support their processes upon request.
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Q: Why do some supplements cost more than others that
look like they contain the same ingredients?
A: Simply
looking at the ingredients does not necessarily provide enough information
to assess value. For example, the same amount of elemental calcium can
be found as, among others, citrate or carbonate, but have significantly
different absorption dynamics. Carbonates are much cheaper, and so are
often used by supplement manufacturers, even though the more expensive
citrates are better absorbed. Frequently, higher quality comes with a
higher price. To learn more about how high quality nutritional supplements
are produced, go to the menu of this Web site and browse
through the "Quality" section for a more in-depth discussion
of quality in nutritional supplements.
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Q: How can I tell if an herb is of high quality?
A: This is
a very important question. Many people have tried herbal products only
to be disappointed when they don't work as hoped. A large part of this
must be laid at the feet of manufacturers hoping to profit from the explosion
of interest in herbs without understanding herbal medicine. For example,
many people know of Echinacea as being an important herb for supporting
healthy immune function. But only certain parts of the plant contain the
substances that have established benefits. Some companies simply grind
up the whole plant (stems, roots, leaves, flowers-everything) and sell
that as "Echinacea." People taking the whole plant expecting
to get the therapeutic benefits described will often be disappointed!
A high quality product will have the active ingredients necessary to give
the health benefits known by traditional herbalists. So if you've tried
herbs before and been disappointed in the results, it may not be the fault
of herbal medicine.
As is true
of nutritional supplements, it is often difficult to see quality in herbs
simply by looking at the finished product. This is especially true with
herbs, as the standards for quality are still being developed. First and
most obviously, quality in herbal products begins with high quality raw
materials. This means that the manufacturer must have an intimate knowledge
of herbs. One dried powder looks very much like another, so a reputable
herbal manufacturer will exercise great care in the raw material purchasing
process, and should be able to provide such things as Certificates of
Authenticity and other documents establishing the source and quality of
the herb. Because the chemical makeup of the plant changes as it matures
(bite into a apple before it's ripe and you can taste the proof of that
point!), selecting the herb at the correct time during the growing season
is important. Additionally, different parts of the herb have different
chemical constituents (and different effects in the body), so knowing
which part of the herb to select is important. The delicate active principles
of the herb must also be protected during the tableting process, so great
care must be taken by the manufacturers here as well.
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Q: Is it OK to take vitamins after their expiration
date?
A: No. While
vitamins generally do not deteriorate into something harmful or toxic
over time, it is possible for the potency to diminish as time passes.
The expiration date is there to ensure that you are getting the freshest
products, with the highest possible quality and potency. To get the results
you are seeking, it is best not to take a supplement that has gone past
its expiration date.
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Q: How long do vitamins last?
A: The Therapeutic Goods
Administration dictates that if supplement manufacturers
list an expiration date on their products, they must maintain records
that prove that the products contain what the labels state, at expiration.
This is because, like everything else, vitamins have a "lifespan."
While they are generally quite stable, especially when kept away from
direct sunlight and high temperatures, there may be a gradual loss of
potency over time. A reputable company will slightly "overfill"
their supplements, meaning that they put enough of each nutrient in the
tablet to compensate for any loss of potency over time. A two-year expiration
date means that the company is certifying that the product will continue
to meet or exceed label claim for two years from the date of manufacture.
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Q: Why do vitamin supplements have expiration dates?
A: As the
tablets become exposed to sunlight, oxygen and moisture, vitamins may
gradually lose potency. Although they do not become "toxic"
or harmful, they may not provide the results the practitioner and consumer
depend upon. In order to set expiration dates, the manufacturer must perform
stability tests showing how much degradation of the product occurs over
time, and put in enough of the raw material to compensate for any lost
potency. Expiration dates ensure that the product will provide consistent
results.
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Q: What are slow or time released tablets?
A: Time-release
or slow-release tablets are manufactured in such a way that they release
their contents in the digestive tract over time rather than all at once.
This can be accomplished by a variety of methods. One method is called
"enteric coating," where the nutrient is coated with a substance
that won't break down in the stomach but will in the small intestine.
Another method coats the nutrients with a substance that will be slowly
digested, so that the nutrients are gradually released. Both of these
(and other) methods can be useful, but care must be exercised in the manufacturing
process to ensure the desired results.
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Q: When should I stop taking the vitamins recommended
by my healthcare provider?
A: You should
continue to take the supplements recommended by your healthcare provider
until they instruct you to change dosage or stop taking them.
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Q: Should I take the vitamins in the morning or at
night?
A: To date,
no specific research has been that definitively answer that question,
although arguments could be made to support taking supplements in the
morning, at night, or even for other times (such as at mealtime, for instance).
The most important step is to take them.
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Q: How are herbs different from drugs?
A: Drugs
are made of a single, isolated compound that is generally patented, manufactured
and "owned" by a company. Herbs are made from plants, and generally
cannot be owned by a company, since their original source is in nature
and is freely available. Generally, drugs have been extensively researched
at great cost over a number of years (the need to recoup that cost is
why governments allow drug companies to patent their drugs).
An additional
and very important difference is in the way they work in the body. Generally,
drugs have a specific mode of action; that means that they work on a specific
chemical reaction in the body. They also tend to have side effects; they
stronger the drug the more likely they are to have significant side effects.
Herbs may also have certain side effects, but since their method of action
is much more gentle, commonly the side effects (if any) tend to be very
mild and resolve quickly.
When drugs
and herbs are taken together, the effects of that combination may sometimes
be difficult to predict. For that reason it is very important that you
discuss any drugs, herbs or vitamins you are taken either singly or as
combinations, with your healthcare provider.
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Q: Can I hurt myself by overdosing on vitamins?
A: Everything
has a range of safety, which also means that there is a potential (however
small) that enough could be taken to become harmful. For example, even
water and sunlight, which are essential for life, can become harmful if
taken in extremely large quantities or for too long a time. In the case
of most vitamins, the amounts used in supplements have been shown in repeated
studies to be very safe. But because there is the possibility of taking
"too much of a good thing," it is important to discuss with
your healthcare provider ALL supplements (and the amounts of each) you
are taking, so your specific health goals can be properly met.
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Q: Are herbs safe to take with prescription drugs?
A: In general,
herbs are very safe, but should not be taken with prescription drugs without
the supervision of a healthcare provider. Recall that herbs have been
used for supporting health for literally thousands of years. Remember,
however, that herbs are complex compounds containing dozens of different
chemicals. When combined with very powerful pharmaceutical drugs there
is always the possibility of an effect other than what is desired. For
this reason it is always important to discuss any combination of herbs,
vitamins, and prescription drugs you are thinking of taking together with
your healthcare provider.
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Q: Why would herbs be supplied in combination blends?
A: Historically,
the people who studied, catalogued and used herbs in treating people would
use them in combinations. Traditional herbalists knew which combinations
of herbs, when prepared in certain ways, would yield the results they
were interested in. An herbalist would take several different plants,
prepare them together as a tea, poultice, blend of dried powders, etc.
and administer them. Drawing on this rich history of application improves
can improve the successes of modern treatments as well.
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Q: What makes urine change color when I take a multivitamin?
A: Vitamin
B2 (riboflavin) causes urine to become a bright yellow when consumed in
relatively high amounts.
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Q: Can I still take vitamins if I have a cold or flu?
A: While
preventing illness is where nutritional supplements and herbs have been
shown to have their best effects, it is certainly helpful to continue
on your supplement program when sick; in fact, the added stresses of fighting
an infection significantly increase your body's nutritional requirements.
Continue taking your supplements until advised to stop or change dosages
by your healthcare provider.
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Q: Can I still take vitamins if I am involved with
a detoxification program?
A: Detoxification
is a complex, energy-demanding process. The hundreds of different enzymes
and biochemical pathways involved in detoxification require the presence
of specific vitamins and minerals in order to function optimally. Additionally,
research has shown that the process of detoxification can be compromised
by insufficient energy reserves in the form of readily available calories.
It is important to discuss your specific nutrition requirements with your
healthcare provider, especially during detoxification programs.
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Q: Should I take extra antioxidants if I am working
out?
A: Exercise
increases the flow of blood to the muscles, to deliver more oxygen and
other nutrients. As oxygen usage increases, so does the production of
free radicals. Since antioxidants help protect against the damage caused
by free radicals, it would be sensible to increase your body's supply
of antioxidants. The important first step in doing so is to eat a diet
rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, since that is where many of the antioxidants
are found in the first place. A good, broad-based nutritional supplement
may be helpful in filling in any gaps in your diet, but should never be
used instead of eating a healthy diet. Remember to always discuss your
nutritional supplement use with your healthcare provider.
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Q: Will I destroy any of the properties in a tablet
if I crush it?
A: Generally,
no. Sometimes crushing a tablet and sprinkling the powder on apple sauce
or some other food helps those who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
The only exception to this is if the supplement is enteric coated to allow
it remain intact in the stomach and break down in the small intestine.
Crushing the tablet may reduce the amount of the nutrient that gets into
the bloodstream, so if you have any questions about this please be sure
and discuss them with your healthcare provider on your next visit.
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Q: What if I find a tablet in my stool?
A: That means
that the tablet did not break down during the digestive process, and the
nutrients in the tablet were not absorbed. A well-manufactured tablet
should break down within 20 or 30 minutes after you swallow it. Reputable
companies routinely perform disintegration tests on tablets during manufacturing
to ensure they meet appropriate standards.
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Q: When should a child take vitamins?
A: Both children
and adults should always strive to eat a healthy diet, full of various
different naturally colorful vegetables and fruits (it is the substances
that give color to our food that often contain the greatest value!) A
nutritional supplement should be taken to improve the overall value of
the diet, not to replace the necessity of healthy dietary choices. But
because in our hectic lifestyle many people cannot, or do not make the
healthiest choices, a basic nutritional supplement targeted towards children's
increased nutritional needs makes good nutritional "insurance."
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Q: Should an infant take Acidophilus? I have heard
they should only take Bifidus.
A: While
it is true that bifidobacterium lactis is commonly found in the digestive
tract of healthy infants, remember that there are hundreds of different
bacteria strains in a healthy digestive tract. Different strains such
as Lactobacillus acidophilus may provide specific and desired health benefits
and could be part of your healthcare provider's strategy. Be sure and
discuss this with your nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner.
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Q: What vitamins, minerals or herbs might be recommended
for anxiety?
A: Many nutrients
have been shown to be helpful during times of anxiety, both to help you
cope with anxiety and also to offset the increased nutritional demands
on your body due to stress. The first place to begin is to make sure your
diet has plenty of vegetables and fruit, preferably fresh. (These provide
high nutritional value with low calories.) Beyond that, herbs such as
St. John's Wort have been shown in scientific research to be helpful,
but before you take any herbs or vitamins for anxiety, be sure and discuss
them with your healthcare provider.
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Q: I have heard calcium can interfere with prescription
drugs.
A: Certain
drugs and nutrients may interact and in effect, reduce the strength of
the drug. For this reason it is important to always discuss with your
healthcare provider all the different vitamins, minerals, herbs and especially
drugs you are taking.
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Q: Can someone have an allergy to canola oil?
A: Although
it may be possible to have an allergy to proteins found in the plant from
which canola oil is extracted, in general, it is unlikely to have a true
allergic reaction to canola oil. This is due to several factors. First,
most plant oils are poor allergens because they contain very little protein.
It is not the oil but the protein (which is usually considered an impurity
of manufacturing) that causes an allergic reaction. When properly processed,
high quality canola oil will have very low levels of protein particulate
matter, and is thus the likelihood of an allergic reaction is extremely
low. Even people with life-threatening anaphylactic reactions to peanuts
generally do not react to highly processed and purified peanut oil. A
simple test for potential allergenicity is to hold a clear container of
the oil up to light and note how clear the oil itself is. A very clear,
non-cloudy oil is likely to be free of potential allergens. Olive oil
is one example of a an oil that contains high amounts of protein "impurities,"
although in the case of olive oil these impurities are generally considered
beneficial. In any case, if you have concerns about your potential for
a negative reaction, you should discuss these concerns with your healthcare
provider.
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Q: I have heard that human strains of probiotics are
the best. Is that true?
A: Partly.
While it is true that the most beneficial probiotics (friendly bacteria)
can be isolated from humans' digestive tracts, certainly not all strains
found there are healthful. In the womb, the baby's digestive tract is
virtually sterile; the bacteria that will grow there following birth are
due to exposure from the mother in the birth canal or at the breast during
breast-feeding. Historically, our diet has contained additional sources
of probiotics, including yogurt, buttermilk, fermented cheeses and even
sauerkraut. So-called "human strains" of probiotics did not
originate in humans therefore, but came originally from consuming them
as part of a healthy diet. There are hundreds of different strains of
bacteria living in the colon of a healthy person. Some of them confer
benefits to humans, others are potentially harmful, and some can be either.
A better question would be to determine the potential the specific strains
of bacteria in question have for providing reliable and consistent health
benefits.
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Q: What are colloidal minerals?
A: A "colloid"
is a chemical description of a gel-like suspension. Therefore, colloidal
minerals would be a blend of minerals found in some form of suspension
or solution. Generally, commercially-available colloidal minerals are
produced from mining ancient sea beds, and then mixing the mined minerals
with water or other fluid to hold them in solution. While these products
provide a large number of minerals, there is no credible scientific evidence
to support marketing claims for superior absorption or bioavailability.
They may even contain relatively high levels of unwanted minerals such
as aluminum, lead or mercury (which of course are naturally occurring),
or of other contaminants.
While it
is definitely true that optimal health depends upon an adequate intake
of all essential nutrients, fewer than 20 minerals are currently known
to be essential for humans. The exact role of other trace elements, as
well as our intake of these micronutrients from food, remains to be clarified.
A better solution than consuming expensive and unproven products would
be to eat a healthy diet, made up of lots of mineral-rich vegetables and
whole grains.
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Q: What is myo-inositol, and how does it differ from
"regular" inositol?
A: Myo-inositol
is one of eight naturally occurring forms that make up the nutrient inositol.
Each one has a slightly different shape and are individually referred
to as isomers. The myo-inositol isomer is the most abundant form found
in the central nervous system, where it can be converted into phosphatidyl
inositol, a second messenger neurotransmitters. Inositol is the term used
to describe the entire group of isomers together.
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Q: What is MSM?
A: Methylsulfonylmethane
(MSM) is a highly biologically valuable source of sulfur. Sulfur is important
for joint tissue support, however, other nutrients are also supportive
of joint health. Along with MSM there are a number of supportive nutrients
including glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamins C and E, and specific amino
acids. While optimal joint support must start with a healthy and varied
diet, nutritional supplements may be useful. However, it is important
that your healthcare provider be aware of ALL supplements, herbs or medicines
you are taking.
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Q: What is the "glycemic index"?
A: The glycemic
index (GI) is a ranking of foods on a scale from 0 to 100 according to
the extent to which they raise blood sugar levels after eating. Glucose
is given a relative number of 100 to provide a baseline to which all others
can be compared. For example, an apple has a glycemic index of 38 which
is less than half that of glucose, but higher than soybeans (which have
a glycemic index of 18). Other common foods and their corresponding glycemic
indices are Corn Flakes (84), dark rye bread (80), and bananas (54).
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Q: What's the difference between indole-3-carbinol
(I-3-C) and DIM?
A: Indole-3-carbinol
(I-3-C) is the chemical name of a substance naturally occurring in cruciferous
vegetables such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage.
Scientists have been studying the health benefits of I-3-C for a number
of years, and believes it helps protect against certain types of cancers,
such as breast and uterine because of its impact on the metabolism of
estrogen in the body. Scientists now know that I-3-C is converted in the
stomach to a different chemical called di-indolylmethane (DIM) when it
comes in contact with digestive juices, and DIM is believed to be the
major "active" metabolite, meaning that it has been shown to
carry most, if not all, of the health-benefits ascribed to I-3-C.
The question
might then be raised: "Why not just isolate and take a DIM supplement,
if that's the active ingredient or metabolite? The answer is that, while
DIM has shown interesting benefits, it is by no means the ONLY active
ingredient converted from I-3-C; in fact, more than 20 metabolites of
I-3-C have been identified; DIM is only one of them. These other metabolites
have also been to shown to have potential benefits; one of them (called
ICZ), for example is believed to enhance the body's fight against toxic
substances that cause cancer by damaging DNA: Another similar example
is the difference between mixed carotenoids and a single carotenoid like
beta-carotene. It has been shown that taking all the carotenoids together
as they would be naturally occurring in your diet, provides greater health
benefits than taking beta carotene along
To recap,
I-3-C is converted in the body to many substances, one of which is DIM.
Taking a supplement containing only DIM would deprive you of the potential
benefits of those other metabolites.
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Q: When is the best time to take glutamine containing
supplements, with food or without food?
A: Glutamine
containing supplements can be taken with or without food.
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Q: Why does N-acetylcysteine (NAC) have such a strong
smell?
A: N-acetylcysteine
is a sulfur-containing compound, and the sulfur gives it a very strong
odor. Sulfur's characteristic "rotten-egg" smell is called that
because eggs contain high amounts of sulfur which is freed and releases
its odor as the egg decays.
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Q: Isn't it better to use glucosamine on its own without
chondroitin?
A: Both glucosamine
sulfate and chondroitin have been shown to beneficial for support of joints
and connective tissue. The specific combination most suited to your needs
may contain both together along with other nutrients, as recent research
has shown that a mixture of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and manganese
ascorbate is more efficacious than taking glucosamine only. However, since
every case is individual, it is important to discuss this with your practitioner
in more detail.
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Q: Is glucosamine vegetarian?
A: No, glucosamine
is derived from crab shell.
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Q: What makes amino acid chelated minerals better
than other types of minerals?
A: In order
to be absorbed, minerals, whether from foods or in supplements, have to
be combined with a "carrier" molecule. When this molecule is
a fragment of protein (an amino acid), and the mineral-amino acid compound
forms a stable molecule, it is referred to as an amino acid chelate. Because
the body is very efficient at absorbing amino acids, chelated minerals
are more easily transported across the intestinal wall than are non-chelated
minerals.
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Q: What does porcine mean?
A: Porcine
means derived from pig.
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Q: Where is the best source of bovine raw glandulars?
A: Glandular
materials start out as healthy (or unhealthy) as the animals from which
they are made. For this reason, all reputable processors of glandular
concentrates will use only USDA-inspected animals as the original source.
The highest quality glandular materials will be made from animals grown
in a healthier environment. New Zealand beef cattle make the best source
of bovine glandular concentrates, because they are free-range rather than
lot-raised, and fed pasture grasses and hay rather than cattle feed. Additionally,
New Zealand is one of the only countries in the world considered completely
free of BSE (mad cow disease) and other transmissible spongiform encephalopathies
(TSEs).
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Q: What is BSE and how can I prevent exposure to it?
A: Bovine
spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also called "mad cow disease"
is a fatal neurological disease in cows though to be caused by consuming
contaminated animal feed. Some countries have included in the feed given
to cattle, ground up animal parts including brains and nervous systems
of animals killed for food. Some of these animals had early stages BSE,
and the infectious agent was passed on to the animals who consumed the
feed. There is now evidence that some people who ate the meat from animals
infected with BSE became infected themselves. Nearly 100 people have now
died from what are now called "transmissible spongiform encephalopathies"
(TSEs) believed to have been caused by eating BSE-contaminated beef.
Although
the only sure way to prevent TSE exposure is to avoid its source (contaminated
beef), that does not mean you should become a vegetarian. For example,
the United States is believed to be free of BSE-infected cattle, and New
Zealand produces beef (and other animal meat) that is certified free of
BSE. Selecting meat from New Zealand and other BSE-free countries would
be wise for anyone concerned about BSE exposure. For more information
about BSE, TSE and what can be done to prevent it, please refer to the
"News" section of this
Web site and click on the "Archives"
section, where a more detailed discussion is posted.
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Q: Will deglycyrrhizinized licorice (DGL) affect my
blood pressure?
A: The active
substance that can affect blood pressure, glycyrrhizic acid, has been
removed from DGL. It will most likely not have an affect on blood pressure,
but the question is important to raise because there is a possibility
that certain herbs could interfere with medications you may be taking.
You should be sure and discuss these questions with your healthcare provider
on your next visit.
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Q: Should supplements be taken with food or away from
food?
A: Certain
supplements are meant to support the digestive process itself, so of course
they should be taken at or near mealtime. In those cases, your healthcare
provider probably gave you specific instructions.
No scientific
studies have been conducted to definitively answer whether absorption
of vitamins and minerals is better when supplements are taken with meals
or away from meals, and a case could be made for either position. Many
people find that taking supplements with their meals has the benefits
of convenience and a reduced potential for stomach upset, however.
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MCHC
Questions
Q: What is microcrystalline hydroxyapatite
concentrate?
A: Microcrystalline
hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC) is a highly absorbable, natural
calcium
source to support healthy bones produced from veal bone. It contains
all the minerals naturally occurring in healthy bone in the right
proportions,
along with the other active and supportive constituents of bone. To preserve
the delicate proteins and other active constituents, MCHC is carefully
processed without heat, ensuring that the natural microcrystalline structure
is not destroyed.
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Q: What is the difference between MCHC and calcium?
A: Calcium
is a mineral involved in many different functions of the body, including
muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and helping your bones
stay strong. Microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC) is
a concentrate
of whole bone. As such, MCHC contains calcium, but calcium is only one
of many different components necessary to help build and maintain
strong
bones. MCHC also contains many other minerals, and even significant amounts
of specific proteins. To elaborate, the calcium in your bones accounts
for approximately 20% of the entire makeup of bone. The other 80% contains
phosphorus, zinc, magnesium and many other minerals, as well as collagen
protein. Collagen is also very important to the strength of your bones,
by helping prevent them from becoming brittle.
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Q: What does it mean on a label when it talks of "elemental"
calcium?
A: Calcium
in supplements (and in our diet) is always associated (in a chemical
or
molecular bond) with another substance. That substance may be carbon
(forming calcium carbonate), citric acid (forming calcium citrate),
or several
others. Most labels will list the amount of calcium (without the other
carrier substance) to allow consumers to compare one product with
another
based on the amount of calcium (called "elemental" calcium).
This is somewhat misleading, however, as different forms of calcium
(calcium
carbonate, calcium gluconate, etc.) may have different effects on the
body. For example, calcium carbonate (one commonly available form),
may
be poorly absorbed, especially by older people. Calcium carbonate interferes
with the production of the very digestive juices required to prepare
calcium
for absorption. In contrast, calcium as found in MCHC or as calcium citrate,
may be better absorbed by many people. Thus, 500 milligrams of "elemental
calcium" from calcium carbonate may not provide the same health
benefits as 500 milligrams of elemental calcium from MCHC or calcium
citrate.
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Q:
How much calcium is in MCHC?
A: Whole
bone is approximately 20% calcium. (As stated before, the other 80%
is made
up of other minerals such as phosphorus, zinc, copper, etc. and protein).
Therefore, MCHC (which is a concentrate of whole bone) contains about
20% calcium. A product containing MCHC will list the amount of elemental
calcium (which is the amount of calcium contained in the tablet, separate
from the other components).
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Q:
How is MCHC produced?
A: Carefully
selected New Zealand veal bones are the original source of the highest
quality MCHC. New Zealand was chosen as the source because animals are
free-range fed rather than feedlot raised, are completely free of
BSE
fear exposure and among the healthiest herds in the world. The pristine,
unspoiled environment of New Zealand also ensures the world's lowest
levels
of contaminants such as lead (many times lower than the level determined
safe by the US government guidelines). MCHC is processed without heat
to preserve the delicate proteins and processed so that the microcrystalline
structure is not lost. Stringent guidelines are followed to ensure
purity
and activity.
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Q:
What is the difference between MCHC and bone meal?
A: A great
deal. Bone meal is heat-processed and produced from the bones of mature
animals. The older the animal, the more time available for environmental
contaminants such as lead to accumulate. MCHC is processed at -50
degrees
Centigrade from young animals (veal) to preserve the delicate protein
matrix and organic factors. (Studies have shown that when these organic
factors are destroyed through heat processing, the benefits of MCHC are
lost).
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Q:
What about impurities such as lead in calcium supplements?
A: Since
our environment contains lead, every natural source of calcium will
contain
some lead. The key is to minimize exposure by selecting the purest possible
natural sources of calcium. Since coastal waters are often highly
polluted
due to rain runoff and river outflow, oyster-shell calcium from these
coastal waters would likely contain prohibitively high levels of lead
and other contaminants. Bone meal from older animals would also likely
contain higher amounts of lead. Selecting a source of MCHC from veal
(young
animals), grown in a pure, pristine environment such as New Zealand,
would ensure a more pure starting material. Stringent testing during
production
and tableting ensures a high-quality calcium supplement. A reputable
company will be able to supply assays upon request.
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Q:
What is the best source of calcium?
A: There
are many sources of calcium available (calcium carbonate, gluconate,
citrate,
lactate, MCHC, etc. etc.), making it very difficult to know which to
select. A better question to ask is "What is the intended application
of the calcium supplement? In other words, "Why are you taking
calcium?"
Many people supplement with calcium to support muscle and nerve health,
or because they read that calcium may be able to prevent leg cramps;
others
because they want healthy bones. As discussed in a previous question,
bones are made up of much more than just calcium, so if your goal is
healthy
bones it makes sense to look for a comprehensive "bone health"
supplement, which would contain more than just calcium alone.
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Q: How much calcium should I take?
A: The RDI
(Recommended Daily Intake) in Australia for calcium has been determined
by the NHMRC (National Health Medical Research Council) to be 800 milligrams. You may have
special needs that change that requirement, however. Such things as
disease,
injury, pregnancy, lack of exercise, etc. may cause your nutritional
needs to change. It is always best to discuss these questions with
your healthcare
provider rather than relying on what a well-intentioned friend tells
you.
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Q:
How do I know how much calcium is in the product I am taking?
A: Supplement
labels in the US are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Supplement
manufacturers are held accountable for the accuracy and reliability of
the information they provide and the products inside the bottle. Reputable
companies will follow Good Manufacturing Procedures (GMP's) for supplements,
as established by the National Nutritional Foods Association (NNFA),
so
careful reading of the label of a reputable company should provide accurate
information. For the amount of each mineral, look for "elemental"
levels. This is the amount of that mineral, without its associated carriers
(such as carbonate, gluconate, etc.).
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Q:
Do I need to take magnesium to absorb calcium?
A: No. Magnesium
is required for many functions in the body, some of which also require
calcium, so the belief has grown that the two must always be taken together.
This is simply not supported by science. Studies done on a "bone
support" product such as MCHC by itself (without additional
magnesium) have shown dramatic benefits. While you may require both
calcium and magnesium,
there is no credible scientific evidence that everyone needs to take
both of them together in a special ratio. It is always best to discuss
your
specific needs with your healthcare provider, since each person's nutritional
needs are unique to them.
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Q:
Is boron required for bone health?
A: It is
unclear whether boron is required to support healthy bones, but recent
studies
indicate that, at least in some people, it may help. Women who consumed
a dietary supplement containing boron were able to maintain higher
circulating
levels of estrogen than women who didn't supplement with boron, according
to some studies. Since loss of estrogen production at menopause is
associated
with accelerated bone loss, many believe that taking supplemental boron
during menopause will help maintain healthier bones. You should discuss
this with your healthcare provider to determine if you would benefit
from boron supplementation, and if it would be wise to select a "bone
health" product containing boron.
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Q:
Do I need vitamin D for bone health?
A: Yes.
Vitamin D is considered an essential nutrient, meaning that for adequate
health
a certain amount of it must be consumed on a daily basis. Your body is
able to store vitamin D, as it is a fat-soluble nutrient, and therefore
some caution must be exercise, as too much of it may be harmful. Some
people probably consume enough vitamin D in their diets so that they
don't
need additional supplements, but some notable exceptions include the
elderly, those with compromised digestion, those who don't consume
dairy products
regularly, and others. As vitamin D can also be manufactured by your
skin from direct contact with sunlight, those who live in northerly
climates
or who don't go out in the sun regularly may also be at risk. It is important
to discuss with your healthcare provider your diet and lifestyle,
and
whether you would benefit from additional supplementation with vitamin
D.
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Q:
How can I protect myself from osteoporosis?
A: Many
factors contribute to osteoporosis, so it should come as no surprise
that no one
thing alone will prevent it. Many risk factors have been identified;
some you can influence; others not. Risk factors you cannot control
include
your gender (women's loss of estrogen production at menopause is probably
the single greatest risk factor), ethnic background (Asians and people
from Northern European backgrounds are at greater risks) and family history
(if your mother and grandmothers developed osteoporosis, your risks
are
higher). Some, however are under your control, including diet (calcium-rich
foods include dairy and dark green leafy vegetables), exercise (especially
weight-bearing) and limiting or eliminating alcohol and tobacco use.
It is important to take stock of your current diet and lifestyle habits,
and considering the risk factors outside your control, modify your habits
to minimize your risk. Talking to your healthcare provider about tests
that help you establish the health of your bones right now, would also
be a good risk-reduction strategy.
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Q:
I am taking estrogen right now. Doesn't that protect me enough?
A: Maybe
not. New studies have called into question the wisdom of long-term
estrogen use due to increased risks to certain types of cancer. (Isn't
it ironic that a strategy implemented to reduce one risk is now thought
to increase another!) Since osteoporosis has many contributing factors
(some of which you can control and others you cannot, as we discuss
above), it is important that you speak with your healthcare provider
to determine the healthiest way to reduce your risks to all diseases
(including both osteoporosis and cancer).
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Osteoarthritis Questions
Q:
What is osteoarthritis?
A: Osteoarthritis
is a chronic joint disease caused by the breakdown of cartilage—the
firm, rubbery tissue that cushions bones at joints. Healthy cartilage
allows bones to glide over one another and absorbs
energy from the shock of physical movement. In osteoarthritis, cartilage
breaks down and wears away. Osteoarthritis generally develops in the
hands, knees, hips, and spine.
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Q:
What are the common signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis?
A: There
are several signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, including:
- Joint pain, stiffness,
and swelling.
- Joints that are warm to the touch.
- Crunching or crackling noise when the joint moves.
- Limited range of motion.
- Muscle weakness.
- Abnormal growth of bony knobs (bone spurs) near joints that can cause
deformities.
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Q:
What causes osteoarthritis?
A: Researchers
are not entirely clear on what initiates the damage and loss of cartilage
associated with osteoarthritis. Fractures, mechanical
abnormalities (i.e., having unequal lower limb lengths or being bow-legged
or knock-kneed), the presence of other bone and joint diseases (such
as gout), or an underlying metabolic or hormonal disorder have been shown
to play a role in the development of osteoarthritis.
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Q:
Am I at risk for developing osteoarthritis?
A: There
are several risk factors that may predispose a person to osteoarthritis,
including:
- Increasing age
- Genetic predisposition
- Obesity
- Injury to the joint
- Occupational overuse or repetitive joint use
- History of inflammatory joint disease
- Metabolic or hormonal disorders (such as hemochromatosis and acromegaly)
- Bone and joint disorders present at birth
- Deposits of crystals in joints (i.e., gout). This occurs because the
body either produces too much uric acid or doesn't excrete enough
uric acid. Excess uric acid accumulates in tissues in the form of needle-like
crystals that can cause severe pain.
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Q:
Are over-the-counter or prescription drugs effective for relieving
osteoarthritis symptoms?
A: The painful
symptoms of osteoarthritis are typically treated with conventional
drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
While initially
effective in relieving pain and inflammation, the prolonged use of NSAIDs
maybe associated with adverse side effects, including stomach ulcers and
damage to the liver and kidneys. Furthermore, research indicates that
NSAIDs may actually accelerate the progression of osteoarthritis because
they appear to inhibit cartilage repair.
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Q:
Are there any natural alternatives?
A: Fortunately,
a number of botanical and nutritional substances have demonstrated
their efficacy and safety in the prevention and/or treatment
of osteoarthritis.
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Nicotinamide and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)—Nicotinamide suppresses nitric
oxide—a compound that has been implicated in osteoarthritis disease
progression—and reduces the progression of joint inflammation and
cartilage degradation. NAC functions as a powerful antioxidant that contributes
to the inhibition and suppression of arthritis, as proven in numerous
animal studies.
Vitamin C—Free radicals—unstable and potentially damaging
molecules generated by normal chemical reactions in the body—have
been implicated as both causing and increasing cartilage aging and osteoarthritis
symptoms. Free radicals damage the integrity of collagen—an important
component of healthy joint tissue. Fortunately, natural antioxidants
such as vitamin C offer a strong defense against free radical damage
and promote the healthy formation of collagen. A supplement containing
mineral ascorbates and bioflavonoids enhances the absorbability of vitamin
C.
Glucosamine Sulfate and Chrondroitin Sulfate—These
natural compounds are found throughout the body and are essential for
optimal cartilage
health. Numerous research studies have shown that glucosamine can reduce
symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as joint pain, tenderness, and swelling,
and may slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Several studies have
also demonstrated the effectiveness of chondroitin in relieving the symptoms
and progression of osteoarthritis.
Copper, Zinc, and Manganese—An
adequate dietary supply of these minerals is crucial to the natural
production of beneficial antioxidant
enzymes. These enzymes protect joint tissues by converting dangerous
free radicals into harmless hydrogen peroxide. Research suggests that
increasing the intake of minerals needed for the induction of antioxidant
enzymes may therefore increase the protection and health of joint cartilage
compromised by osteoarthritis.
Bioflavonoids—Plant-derived
bioflavonoids have demonstrated the ability to activate beneficial
enzymes necessary for cartilage synthesis.
These botanical substances also possess powerful antioxidant properties.
Research has shown the efficacy of bioflavonoids in reducing pain and
inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) and Tumeric (Curcuma
longa)—These
herbs have a long history of traditional use in the East Indian system
of medicine known as Ayurveda. Recent investigations have confirmed the
benefit of these herbs in the treatment of osteoarthritis. For instance,
a reduction in joint pain and swelling has been attributed to the therapeutic
use of ginger, and the principal compounds that are found in tumeric
have been shown to produce favorable results similar to those of NSAIDs,
without the adverse side effects.
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata)—The
gum resin acids derived from the boswellia tree have been shown to
produce both anti-inflammatory
and anti-arthritic activity in a variety of experimental models and human
studies. Up to 60% of patients participating in boswellia studies have
reported a significant reduction of painful osteoarthritis symptoms.
Unlike traditional NSAIDs, boswellia extract also appears to exhibit
no significant adverse side effects or toxicity.
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Perilla
Questions
Q:
What is perilla?
A: Perilla
is a unique herb native to Eastern Asia that is a member of the mint
family. The seed of perilla contains
a unique blend of biologically active compounds that are known to possess
unique health-promoting qualities.
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Q:
What are its uses?
A: Perilla
has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to relieve
symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and indigestion. In Kampo
(a Japanese variant of TCM), perilla is an active ingredient in Saiboku-to—a
medicinal preparation prescribed for asthma. Scientific studies on
perilla extract show it may regulate immune activity in the allergic
response.
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Q:
How long has it been available?
A: The perilla
plant has been used in TCM for over a century. Recently, a concentrated
extract of the flavonoid-rich seed has become available as a dietary
supplement in the United States.
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Q:
How can this product help me, specifically?
A: Perilla
seed extract may help suppress histamine release and other processes
involved in the allergic response to certain foods, pollens, dust mites,
molds, etc. Therefore, you may notice enhanced respiratory health.
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Q:
How does it differ from other herbs?
A: Other
herbs may not contain this unique blend of compounds, such as luteolin
and rosmarinic acid, that have been scientifically shown to target
multiple phases in the allergic response.
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Q:
What is the recommended dosage?
A: Take
100 mg twice daily.
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Q:
Are there any side effects?
A: Although
many products with similar applications may produce unwanted side effects
such as drowsiness or hyperactivity, empirical evidence from a long
history of traditional use suggests perilla extract may not cause significant
side effects. More human research is needed to give a definitive answer.
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Q:
Can I take perilla seed extract if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: Due to
lack of testing in these conditions, perilla is not recommended.
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Q:
Are there any drug interactions with perilla seed?
A: None
known.
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Policosanol
Questions
Q:
What exactly is policosanol?
A: Policosanol
is a group of natural compounds, such as octacosanol, that can be found
in some dietary supplements that support cardiovascular health. It has
been clinically demonstrated to help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol,
while increasing the “good” HDL cholesterol. In addition,
policosanol may provide secondary support for blood vessel (e.g., artery)
integrity, blood flow, and blood pressure.
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Q:
How does policosanol promote healthy cholesterol levels?
A: Policosanol
may indirectly inhibit HMG-CoA reductase—a key enzyme involved in
cholesterol production. In addition, policosanol may bind to blood lipids
to facilitate their removal.
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Q:
How does sugarcane-derived policosanol differ from other forms of policosanol?
A: Unlike other
forms of policosanol, sugarcane-derived policosanol has been extensively
researched. In fact, over 20 published studies have demonstrated its
cardiovascular benefits.
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Q:
Is it safe?
A: Policosanol
has been clinically demonstrated to provide safe and effective support
without serious adverse effects.
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Q:
What is the recommended dosage of policosanol?
A: Policosanol
provides effective support with only 5 to 20 mg daily.
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Q:
Can I take policosanol if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: Ask your
