Posts Tagged ‘levels’

Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal glands and is actually important for the regulation of blood pressure, the immune system and many other functions. Cortisol can be good in small amounts but high levels can lead to an increase of abdominal fat, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes and can also increase your bad cholesterol levels and decrease your good cholesterol levels. Stress can be physical, mental, or emotional. Stress stimulates your central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). In turn, nerve cells, in a region of the brain referred to as the hypothalamus, get excited. They release a protein called corticotropin-releasing-factor or CRF. Now CRF in turn stimulates the anterior pituitary (a gland in the brain) to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone or ACTH. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal glands in response to the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the pituitary. Metabolically, cortisol increases the concentration of blood glucose by converting amino acids into carbohydrates (gluconeogenesis), inhibiting glucose uptake, and breaking down lipid stores into adipose tissue (lipolysis). Chronic stress leads to over stimulation then subsequent hypofunction/ depletion of many hormone producing organs. These include: the adrenal glands, the pituitary glands, the thyroid gland and sex hormone producing organs. Reishi Mushroom Extract: This herb works to lower cortisol and is particularly useful with individuals who have anxiety. It is very sedative and calming, and has numerous additional benefits, such as being anti-inflammatory. It weakens your immune system so you’ll be more prone to infections than others. That’s why people who are suffering from prolonged depression tend to also have other health issues such as acne flare-ups, and persistent coughs and colds. The adrenal fatigue syndrome is a condition where your adrenal glands are fatigued. Once the adrenal glands are fatigued, your body will get lesser help from the glands. The glands will work much less effectively. One thing that glands will not do anymore is the production of cortisol. These hormones called cortisol are hormones that help your body cope with stress. Insulin resistance is where your body has produced adequate amounts of insulin to handle the foods you eat, but is unable to absorb the insulin into cells in order to use sugar (carbohydrates) as fuel. It’s a rather dastardly problem. You have all this muscle fuel available, but rather than using that fuel. Cortisol deficiency can cause Addison’s disease, which is a potentially fatal illness. Excessive production of cortisol is equally damaging. The Adrenal Stress Index is a saliva test that can determine if your cortisol levels are too high or too low. This chronic elevation in cortisol is extremely detrimental to your health. It has been linked to, but not limited to, adrenal fatigue, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, excessive blood sugar levels, elevated cholesterol, and pretty much anything else you can think of that stress can create in the human body. Read about loan policies.Also read about pet chipmunk and hemochromatosis symptoms

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Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/cortisol-levels-1444417.html

Chocolate Tea with Immune-Boosting Properties!

Fall has just begun and it’s clear that cold and flu season is upon us. Just why are some people more susceptible than others? While doctors are not really sure, experts say it may have something to do with immunity and resistance levels of each individual.

In order to maximize protection against seasonal flu, follow the guidelines issued by the World Health Organization and your local health authorities. In addition, you may want to follow a few easy tips that may help you stay healthy! There are no claims that these methods can actually boost immune health or totally protect you from seasonal flu, but there is sufficient scientific research data that show these may help build immunity. Many recommend chocolate tea or supplementing your diet with additional nutrients. You may want to consider these methods since they do not have side effects and show potential to boost the immune system.

Tips to Boost Immunity!

  • Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. A brisk walk in the morning or evening can help get the circulation system going and enhance the functions of all organs of the body. Exercise helps to raise the serotonin levels and happy people are known to have better immune health.
  • Get enough sleep! This generation suffers from more sleep problems than any other. Many of us revert to sleep aids or sedatives to get a good night’s sleep. During sleep your body recuperates from the day’s damage. Because other functions are running in stand-by mode your body is able to focus on detoxification and building of new cells. Sleep helps to prime the immune system so that it is in top form to function again the next morning.
  • Drink plenty of water. Keep yourself hydrated.
  • Antioxidant-rich foods are believed to stimulate immune functions. Eat plenty of foods rich in Vitamins A, C and E. These are the three antioxidant vitamins. Orange juice, tomatoes, carrots are some foods that contain these vitamins.
  • Eat 5 to 6 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Make your plate colorful with a variety of foods. Apples, cranberries, strawberries, kiwis, green vegetables with deep green colors add spice and health to life.
  • Eat a daily dose of yogurt for probiotics intake. Probiotics aid the functions of the digestive system. Some people say that 80 percent of immune health depends on the healthy functions of the digestive system.

Drink Chocolate Tea!

  • It took a long time for scientists to discover it, but now research shows that pure cocoa is abundantly rich in antioxidants and other health benefits. Pure cocoa shows a strong connection to the body’s immune functions. Apparently, cocoa helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells. You’ll find products like chocolate tea, have high antioxidant value. Pure cocoa also helps to raise serotonin levels. Serotonin, as well all know, is the feel-good hormone. Try cocoa tea to boost your mood and your immunity!
  • Green tea, a non-fermented form of tea, is full of antioxidants and shows virus-fighting properties. A combination of ingredients in chocolate tea is believed to help boost immune health.
  • Resveratrol, a phyto-nutrient, found in red grapes is also an antioxidant and is believed to have anti-vital, anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Red wine contains resveratrol but you would have to drink many glasses of red wine to get enough resveratrol to benefit health. Look for chocolate tea products that contain resveratrol.

The combination of pure cocoa, green tea extract and resveratrol is available in a super-delicious ready-to-make chocolate tea blend called CocoPure. It is powerful in antioxidant strength and all the immune-boosting properties of each of these three nutrients. And it’s only 10 calories a serving so it’s great for people on a diet.

New Vitality is a health supplements company. It develops supplement and chocolate tea products which are carefully formulated under the guidance of an elite panel comprised of renowned doctors, nutritionists, chemists and researchers. Whether you want a chocolate teas, pet health supplement, a personal care product or a health care product, New Vitality is a one-stop shop for all needs

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/chocolate-tea-with-immuneboosting-properties-1382145.html

Women and Joint Healthcare

Studies have shown that women experience more joint pain than men and in more areas of the body than men do. It is said that this is because women generally have less cartilage in their joints than men do. Another reason that women may experience more joint pain than men is because the breakdown of cartilage happens faster in women than in men.

Estrogen Offers Joint Support

Female hormones are believed to heighten a woman’s vulnerability to pain. Hormone fluctuations in the lifespan of a woman may give rise to joint pain and a greater need for joint support than men. It is important that women consider taking daily nutritional support through joint supplements.

Estrogen, a female hormone, is known to have joint supporting cartilage-protective properties. This is why women tend to experience joint pain after menopause when estrogen levels go down. It is also the reason why some women experience joint pain at the onset of menstruation when estrogen levels plummet. Joint supplements that contain glucosamine, taken regularly, can help alleviate the internal effects of hormonal fluctuations on joint health.

During maternity, estrogen levels peak and then drop in the post-partum phase which is when women most women experience joint pain. A joint support care program is essential during this phase. You will need to consult with your physician whether joint supplements may be taken during pregnancy and lactation.

Women Experience More Pain

There is a theory that explains why women are apt to experience more pain than men. Women, it appears, produce less endorphins than men. Endorphins are hormones that are known to be the body’s natural painkillers. If the production of endorphins is less it will result in experiencing more pain. Another cause suggests that women are more limber and loose-jointed than men and therefore incur more friction in the joints which accelerates joint degeneration. Joint supplements that contain well-researched ingredients such as boswellin and white willow bark can help to alleviate pain and inflammation often associated with joint pain.

Joint Care and Joint Supplements

Weight management is a major proponent for joint support. Maintaining a healthy weight will ease the pressure, especially on weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and ankles. Try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week and keep to a healthy diet. In addition, you may want to try joint supplements. Look for ingredients which have scientific support for promoting joint health and are known for their efficacy and safety.

A doctor-approved joint supplement like GoFlex comes with a topical cream that contains an Food and Drug Administration-approved ingredient called capsaicin. Topically applied, capsaicin is very effective as a fast pain reliever. Together with joint health supplement that nutritionally nourish your joints, these are every woman’s assets to enjoying a longer, healthier and safer joint support system.

GoFlex is a scientifically-based, physician-approved joint health supplement containing herbal and natural nutrients that specifically support vital joint functions for maintaining mobility and flexibility. GoFlex includes a joint health supplement and joint pain relief cream containing an Food and Drug Association-approved ingredient for fast-acting joint pain relief.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/women-and-joint-healthcare-1382151.html

Omega 3 And Brain Development – Does It Really Help?

Omega 3 and Brain
Use it or lose it. This is what experts say about our brain. The more we use it and keep it active, the better it will perform and will remain healthy. But did you know there is something else too that is very effective at ensuring your brain’s health and well being?

Omega 3 and brain health are very closely linked. Numerous studies have proven that increasing the intake of omega 3 fats helps in improving memory and focus, benefits cognitive function and the nerve transmission process.

Omega 3 also helps in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. In children, lower levels of these fats have been linked with a lower IQ, aggression, ADHD and dyslexia.

Increasing omega 3 intake helps increase the serotonin levels in the brain and keeps depression at bay.

In short, taking more of these fats is the best thing you can do to keep your brain running in top form.

Now let’s find out what is the best source of this nutrient.

Flax seed oil is one source of omega 3 fats. It contains ALA fat inside. ALA is internally converted by our body into DHA and EPA fats and then it is able to derive the health benefits from it. This is not an efficient process and only about 5% to 25% fat is able to get converted.

It makes sense then to directly focus our efforts to take DHA and EPA fats through our diet.

Fish like Salmon, Mackerel and Hoki are amongst the best sources of these two fats. In case you’re wondering, the Hoki is a fish found in the pristine waters of the southern coast of New Zealand.

It contains high quantities of DHA and EPA and is free from any contaminants too due to the clean ocean waters there.

One option of taking these fats is to directly eat these fish as a part of your regular diet. This is easier said than done as not only would it quickly become monotonous, but expensive too.

A much easier option to get omega 3 and brain benefits is to take a fish oil supplement derived from these DHA rich fish. In less than the cost of one meal of fish, you can get a month’s supply of the supplement.

Your next step? To take what you’ve learned and get omega 3 and brain benefits from the right fish oil. Visit my website for more information.

Michael Holman is a dedicated researcher and reviewer of fish oil supplements. He shares his research on his website – Omega3 Information.To discover the highest Omega 3 fish oil supplements our editors personally use and recommend, visit – http://www.omega3information.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/omega-3-and-brain-development-does-it-really-help-1376517.html

How much EPA and DHA should you take to be Healthy?

How much EPA and DHA should you take if you have no heart disease?  You will find the answer to that question and several others in this article.  The information here consists of doctor recommendations and/or the dosages used in clinical trials.

If you don’t have heart disease, cardiovascular specialists recently stated in the Journal of American Cardiology that you should take a minimum of 500mg per day.  When you are comparing supplements, you have to be careful.

The front of the bottle will show the amount of fish oil in each capsule, but the amount of Docosahexaenoic acid and Eicosapentaenoic acid, as well as the total omega-3s will be listed in the nutrient facts on the back of the label.  The concentration of omega-3s in a gram of fish oil, the average amount found in most of the supplements on the market, will vary from 40-90%.  The amount of individual omega-3s will vary, as well.

How much EPA and DHA should you take if you have high blood triglycerides and/or imbalanced cholesterol?  In one study, 3600mg of DHA lower blood triglycerides by 26%.  3180mg of EPA lowered them by 21%.  A slight, but significant increase in “good” HDL cholesterol levels was seen in both groups, but was a little higher in the DHA group.

The study was not actually designed to come up with a recommended daily dosage for average individuals, but to see which of the two omega-3s was most effective at lowering blood triglycerides and increasing HDL levels.  Good results have been seen with lower daily doses.

How much EPA and DHA should you take if you have heart disease or have suffered a heart attack?   Recommendations vary from 800-3000mg per day.  No one should take a high dose, unless they are under a physician’s care.

Research has shown that 3000mg of fish oil or three daily capsules is safe.  It also appears to be safe to combine the use of the therapy with the use of aspirin and blood thinners.  But, that approach should only be taken under the direction of a healthcare practitioner.

How much EPA and DHA should you take if you are pregnant or nursing?  The developing brain must have an adequate DHA-intake.  For that reason, many doctors are recommended a daily supplement or 500-1000mg per day.

Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/how-much-epa-and-dha-should-you-take-to-be-healthy-1377154.html

What is DHA used for in Supplements?

What is DHA used for these days?  While the abbreviation could refer to a form of vitamin C, the active ingredient in self-tanning products or a coal tar derivative, it is most commonly used to refer to Docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid.  Here’s where you’ll find it and what it’s good for.

The primary dietary source of Docosahexaenoic acid in the human diet is fish and seafood.  At one time, beef, poultry and eggs may have been a source of the nutrient, but as they have been taken off of grass and other greens, fed primarily corn and grain, the foods are no longer sources of the nutrient.  Any omega-3 that they contain is alpha-linolenic acid or ALA.

ALA is an essential fatty acid, but it is not used by the human body “as is”.  It is converted to Eicosapentaenoic acid, which through a series of steps may eventually be converted to Docosahexaenoic acid, but researchers believe that the conversion occurs only under severe circumstances.  They know that only a small amount is converted and that high intakes of ALA do not increase circulating blood levels of Docosahexaenoic acid, which makes it an essential fatty acid, too.

What is DHA used for in the human body?  It is a primary component of brain cells, neurons and the epithelium inside of the eye.  It is believed that regular fish and seafood consumption was what allowed man’s brain to become larger, in the first place.

Low levels of Docosahexaenoic acid are associated with Alzheimer’s and depressive disorders.  Those findings indicate that the nutrient is necessary for the continued health of the brain, not just during early childhood or during fetal development.

What is DHA used for by food manufacturers?  Primarily, it is a food additive.  Until recently, the main use was to fortify infant formulas.  Breast milk is rich in Docosahexaenoic acid.  Cow’s milk and soy, the basis of infant formulas, do not provide the nutrient.

What is DHA used for in the treatment and prevention of diseases?  That is a relatively new field of study, although it began over two decades, ago.  Arthritis, heart disease, and depression are just a few of the conditions that may benefit from  supplementation.

Most cardiologists agree that the primary benefit is in the area of heart disease prevention.  Exactly how much is necessary to provide the benefit is still unclear.  But, most doctors recommend a minimum daily intake of Docosahexaenoic acid and Eicosapentaenoic acid combined.

What is DHA used for?  It’s used by the human body to grow and live.  It is a nutrient essential for good health and long life.

Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/what-is-dha-used-for-in-supplements-1377164.html

What does Fish Oil Do Really?

Let’s face it.  The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids have been widely talked about, but some people still ask the question, what does fish oil do?  It really surprises me sometimes how little some of us know about the preventative effect that high doses of omega-3 DHA and EPA fatty acids have on the body.  More and more evidence of the positive power of fish oil has been coming out since the 1970’s.

It was then when it was decided that someone should investigate how it was that Eskimos and Inuits had such a low incidence of cardiovascular disease, despite the fact that their daily dietary fat intake was many times what is considered healthy.  It turns out that the key to their good health is how high a percentage of their daily dietary fat intake is made up of DHA and EPA omega fatty acids.

The answer to what does fish oil do to promote cardiovascular health is that these compounds, and this is especially true of DHA, lower your triglyceride levels, lower blood pressure, reduce your heart rate, prevent arrhythmia, stimulate blood flow, and prevent platelets from sticking together and causing clots.  Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent hardening of the arteries.

It has been evaluated that diets emphasizing traditional native foods were associated with a far healthier fatty acid profile than diets emphasizing Western foods.  The sad thing is that as the Inuits and Yupik people become further influenced by the practices of the West their health has been shown to be beginning to decline.  It is believed that starch and simple sugars may be contributing to the higher incidence of obesity and disease.

So, what does fish oil do for you other than provide you with a healthier cardiovascular system?  DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids are involved in the cognitive development and maintenance of healthy cognitive function also.  They have been proven to have a positive effect on mood disorders such as depression, hostility, and aggression, and have even been shown to have benefits when it comes to treating schizophrenia.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to have a preventative effect so far as Alzheimer’s disease.  It has been discovered that one of the precursors of the development of Alzheimer’s is the formation of amyloid plaques in the frontal cortex of the brain.  It has been scientifically proven that high levels of DHA in the system prevent these amyloid plaque deposits from forming.

Now that you have the answer to what does fish oil do, you have to make that you are getting it into system.  The safest way to do this is through taking a prepared dietary fish oil supplement, rather than trying to eat more fish.  There are often high levels of toxic contamination in fish, which you will not find in a molecularly distilled omega-3 fatty acid supplement.

What does fish oil do?  It guarantees that you will have far better health than you would have without it.  Omega-3 fatty acids simply do amazing things for your body.

Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/what-does-fish-oil-do-really-1370256.html

Acai Berry Weight Loss

Acai Berry weight loss products have become extremely popular the world over in recent times. The Acai Berry grows in the Amazon Rain Forrest where the Brazilians have harvested it for centuries. It is dark purple in colour and is about the size of a small grape. This amazing little fruit contains a huge amount of antioxidants, fibre, amino acids and omega acids. The Acai Berry has been called a super food because it provides a wide and varied spectrum of health benefits.

So how do Acai Berry weight loss products work? Well, the fibre in the fruit helps to move food through your body in a more efficient manner and it also helps to make you feel satisfied, or full, after a meal. Amino acids aid your body in utilising the protein you ingest and protein helps your body to build and maintain muscle mass. If you have healthy muscles this will help you to burn fat more efficiently. The omega acids contained in the Acai berry will help to speed up your metabolism, which in turn will help you to burn fat more quickly than you would normally.

Apart from being a great aid to weight loss, the Acai Berry is known to have many other health benefits. Because of its’ high content of antioxidants it can help your body to combat the growth of cancer cells, promote healthy looking radiant skin, help to increase your energy levels and fight off fatigue as well as being very beneficial for your immune system.

Please visit Acai Berry for natural supplements to help you reach your weight loss goals.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/acai-berry-weight-loss-1372403.html

Acai Berry Products

Acai Berry products have become increasing more popular over the last few years and there are now a wide variety of Acai Berry products on the market. The Acai Berry has been described as a super food and when you examine its’ properties in more detail you can begin to see why.

Why Buy Acai Berry Products?

Acai Berry products generally come in tablet, capsule, juice or powder form and they have a variety of health benefits. The benefits of Acai Berry products include…

> Helping you to lose weight

> Helping you to fight fatigue and increase your energy levels

> Detoxifying your body and organs with natural antioxidants

> Aiding your body to flush out those unwanted, excess Pounds

> The promotion of healthy looking, radiant skin

> Helping you to generally look and feel better

As you can see, this small fruit packs a very large punch. Because of the every growing popularity, Acai Berry products are readily and easily available online. Some companies even offer free trials and money back guarantees so you know that you are not only buying quality products but you get the added security of peace of mind.

Top quality Acai Berry products will contain antioxidants, vitamins, essential fatty acids and dietary fibre. As well as the health benefits listed above, the Acai Berry can be very beneficial to maintaining a healthy heart. Before buying Acai Berry products always do some research first, read all labels and make sure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.

The Acai Berry grows in the Amazon Rain Forrest where the Brazilians have harvested it for centuries. It is dark purple in colour and is about the size of a small grape.

Please visit Acai Berry Supply for quality Acai Berry Products and more information.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/acai-berry-products-1372798.html

Acai Berry Select Cut For Men

Acai berry select cut for men is a reasonably new product on the market and it is aimed at guys who are looking to get back into shape. Acai berry select cut for men has been especially formulated to help you get rid of those unwanted pounds and get you looking and feeling great again.

Being overweight can have many implications and it can even be very dangerous. When you’re overweight you put undue stress on your body and become at risk for back and joint pain and many other health problems.

In addition to medical issues, being overweight can deplete your energy levels and can rob you of the ability to get things done on a day to day basis. These are just a few of the reasons to try acai berry select cut for men to help you regain that fit and healthy body that you took for granted in your youth.

Acai berry select cut for men has many health benefits and these include…

> Helping you to lose weight

> Helping you to fight fatigue and increase your energy levels

> Detoxifying your body and organs with natural antioxidants

> Aiding your body to flush out those unwanted, excess Pounds

> The promotion of healthy looking, radiant skin

> Helping you to generally look and feel better

Studies have shown that the acai berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world. The acai berry has a powerful blend of mono-unsaturated (healthy) fats, dietary fibre and antioxidants to help promote cardiovascular and digestive health.

Please visit Acai Berry Supply for quality Acai Berry Products and more information on Acai Berry Select Cut For Men

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