Keys: A New Skin Product From Eugene

August is Local Vendors Month at Evergreen Nutrition and we are highlighting products made in Oregon and Washington. All local companies are on sale (see August Sales) and there are several demos scheduled throughout the month. You may also enter a drawing to win free products from Good Clean Love and Mad About Organics, both Eugene companies.

KEYS: MADE IN EUGENE

We’d like to introduce you to KEYS, our newest skin care line. It’s made right here in Eugene from high quality, functional, natural ingredients so no chemical dictionary required. Keys was started by Wendy Steele, a melanoma survivor, because of her reaction to the chemicals in skin care products. She is committed to making excellent products that restore natural skin health using pharmaceutical grade ingredients in therapeutic proportions. Everyone can benefit from chemical-free skin care, but it is particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin, skin disorders and for cancer recovery patients. All products are gluten-free, soy-free and vegan and their airless containers have full disclosure labeling. And, of course, they do not test on animals.

BEST SELLING KEYS PRODUCTS

We carry several KEYS products including these best sellers:~SOLAR RX MOISTURIZER, a light moisturizing lotion that contains 20% zinc oxide which gives SPF 30+ UVA and UVB protection. It contains no retinyl palmitate (synthetic Vitamin A) and will not clog pores or sting eyes.~LUMINOUS MOISTURIZER is a clear foundation that provides anti-aging benefits. It was formulated with Hollywood makeup artists to create a natural glow and visual reduction of redness, fine lines and dry patches. This light moisturizing lotion contains healing aloe vera plus avocado, black cumin and carrot seed oils.~TORTUGA SUPER EMOLLIENT LOTION softens dry, cracked skin and calluses with softening shea butter and rich avocado, black cumin and carrot seed oils. It’s also helpful for rashes, scrapes and burns.~EYE BUTTER contains cucumber, shea butter, avocado oil and aloe. Use it on eyes and lips to reduce fine lines while softening and healing.~ISLAND RX FOAMING WASH is a pH-enhanced castile soap with avocado oil and clary sage. It was developed for use on sensitive skin and is even safe for babies. Use it head-to-toe for clean skin and hair.

STAY INFORMED, STAY HEALTHY

Wendy and the people at Keys are committed to safe and effective skin care. Stop by the store and pick up FREE information on the “DIRTY DOZEN” skin care chemicals and a SKIN CANCER identification card, both small enough to keep handy in a wallet or purse. KODA PET CARE from KEYSSafe skin care isn’t just for people. KODA is Keys’ line for dogs that keeps your best friend clean and pest free, naturally. Like all of our Eugene vendors, Koda is on sale for 20% off in August. At Evergreen Nutrition we like to support our neighbors’ local businesses by making their products available to you. Thank you to all of our customers who shop at our small, family-owned store and keep the dollars circulating close to home.

From Evergreen’s Archives: August 2013

Multitasking Gotu Kola for Mind & Body

One of the most legendary herbs in the Ayurvedic herbal tradition of India, with a history of use stretching back more than one thousand years, has some of the most disparate and interesting properties ascribed to it. Gotu kola (Centella asiatica, Hydrocotyle asiatica), also known as Indian pennywort, is a creeping perennial plant growing in and around water and swampy areas in India, China, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Indonesia. Sri Lankan folklore has it that this herb will confer a long life. This legend arises from the native Sinhalese of Ceylon noticing that the plant is a preferred delicacy of elephants, known for their longevity. As an herbal rasayana (rejuvenative tonic substance) in India, it has been used traditionally to increase vitality, prolong life, and enhance learning and memory.

Connective Tissue/Collagen

A lesser-known benefit of gotu kola in this country is its profound ability to increase the integrity and healing of connective tissue, skin and gums. The triterpene compounds support the vascular system, increase collagen production, and inhibit sclerosis (hardening) of tissues. Famous research decades ago showed that centella extracts were able to dissolve the waxy covering of skin in leprosy patients, leading to eventual healing of the leprous lesions and nodules. Wound healing in general is hastened, essentially through an increase of the body’s ability to build new skin in areas of infection and injury. Numerous studies have shown centella’s use in healing gynecological/obstetric tears and incisions, especially relating to childbirth. Episiotomy incisions and lesions show rapid healing and a lessening of infection around sutures when gotu kola is consumed, before, during, or after childbirth. In Europe, centella preparations are used to hasten the healing of bedsores.   Also popular in Europe are cosmetic preparations featuring centella, whether internal or topical. (See newsletter.) In addition to stimulating hair and nail growth, the asiatocoside compounds increase the tensile strength of the dermis by improving the synthesis and deposition of collagen. This translates to less sagging and wrinkles, hurray! Here’s an herbalist’s secret for ageless skin, shhh. Consume gotu kola to build/increase collagen, and grape seed extract, which binds to collagen and inhibits its breakdown. Dust off that license, you’ll be needing it at the liquor store! Centella’s compounds also have an affinity for the vascular structure, one of the mechanisms by which they speed healing of tissues. Veins and capillaries are strengthened and circulation is improved as well. Conditions benefiting from this are venous insufficiency, varicose/spider veins/hemorrhoids, and phlebitis (a direct inflammation of the veins). Gotu kola increases synthesis of hyaluronic acid (see newsletter) and chondroitin sulfate, in addition to collagen proteins, and thus seems to be a veritable tonic for the connective tissues of the body.

Learning & Memory Aid

Probably the most famous property of gotu kola is its support of the brain. It has long been a staple of brain/memory supplement formulas, and is often combined with Ginkgo biloba, another famous brain herb. In traditional Ayurveda gotu kola is considered a nervine, said to relieve insomnia, stress, and disturbed emotions. It has been shown to do much more than this with regard to the mind. It appears to lower brain levels of certain neurotransmitters which if increased interfere with learning. There have been animal and human studies conducted which showed increased learning, retention and cognitive ability after gotu kola administration. Most of these studies were done in India, where the herb is used interchangeably with another herb, bacopa, for increasing memory and concentration. Depression and anxiety may benefit from gotu kola, and it may increase alertness, making it an all-around brain support herb. Evergreen carries this multitasking herb as a liquid extract or in capsules and in a variety of blends for brain health, vein support, oral health and skin care. Its support of healthy body and mind make gotu kola a true herbal superstar.    

Astaxanthin: Antioxidant King

One of the most unique and beneficial antioxidant substances to gain popularity in the last decade is the carotenoid astaxanthin (pronounced asta-ZAN-thin). With reams of clinical studies and testimonials from the world over, this superstar nutrient is fast becoming “the next big thing” in the nutritional supplement world. It may be one of the most powerful antioxidants yet discovered, about 5,000 times stronger than Vitamin C, for instance, and it has a broad range of properties benefiting multiple body systems. Its extraordinarily powerful antioxidant activity, primarily by supporting the body’s inflammatory response, may offer relief from and prevention of many chronic conditions.

What Is It?

Astaxanthin is classified as a xanthophyll carotenoid, meaning that it does not have pro-Vitamin A activity like beta-carotene. It is found in certain species of microalgae, plants, and animals. It is a red pigment, and lends its color to marine life such as lobsters, shrimp, and salmon. These creatures consume astaxanthin-containing krill, algae, and plankton, taking on the reddish tint in their own bodies. It is theorized that salmon, with the largest concentration of astaxanthin in nature, are given their legendary endurance by this substance. It is also the reason that flamingos are pink. The birds consume large quantities of astaxanthin-containing algae and crustaceans, and the pigment is deposited in their feathers. This is truly a case where you are what you eat!

Antioxidant/Anti-inflammatory

As we know, the antioxidant activity of astaxanthin outperforms virtually every other antioxidant. In vitro studies at Creighton University found that its free radical scavenging ability was 550 times stronger than Vitamin E and 11 times more powerful than beta-carotene. It has the added bonus of being both fat and water soluble, thus able to protect both the inside and outside of the cell. Most antioxidants are soluble in fat or water, but not both.   For some years now athletes in the know have been supplementing with astaxanthin to assist with not only endurance but also recovery and inflammation levels. The compound appears to assist muscle function by reducing free radical damage during heavy exercise, allowing the muscles to use oxygen more efficiently and recover quickly (think of the arduous trek which salmon make). Human clinical trials have demonstrated benefits in patients suffering from acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and exercise-induced joint and muscle damage. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that subjects given astaxanthin showed CRP levels reduced by over 20% after eight weeks. CRP (C-reactive protein) is an excellent marker for the presence of systemic inflammation and this inflammation may be at the root of many life-threatening diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes.

Eye Health

  Two of the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment are age-related cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Both conditions seem to be mainly the result of a lifetime of light-induced oxidation, free-radical damage to the macula and retina of the eye caused by (excessive) sunlight. It is known that certain antioxidant carotenoids are preferentially found in the eye with the task of protecting the tissues from UV damage. Lutein and zeaxanthin from the diet are deposited in the eye for this protection. These substances are able to cross the blood-retinal barrier to accomplish this. While astaxanthin is not normally found in the eye as are the other two carotenoids, many studies have shown it is also able to cross the blood-retinal barrier and exert profound antioxidant protection to the eye. In addition to protection from light-induced oxidative stress, astaxanthin can prevent eye fatigue, such as occurs in people spending large amounts of time at a computer screen. Several Japanese studies showed up to a 46% reduction in eyestrain, eye fatigue, and eye soreness in subjects taking 5 mg of astaxanthin daily and improvements in visual acuity as well.

Skin Health/Protection/Beauty

Since most skin damage (and skin aging) is due to oxidative stress, any powerful antioxidant will benefit the skin to some extent. Astaxanthin works multiple minor miracles upon skin. Its antioxidant properties help skin resist the oxidative assaults of sunlight and weather and the subsequent collagen breakdown which occurs as a result. UV light reddens the skin and may cause sunburn and photo-aging. Astaxanthin was the focus of a study to determine its effects on sun exposure. The study showed that 4 mg of astaxanthin daily significantly extended the amount of time it took for skin subjected to UV light to redden, demonstrating the carotenoid’s ability to support skin during sun exposure. Another study with healthy middle-aged women using 4 mg daily for six weeks significantly improved fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity, and moisture content of the skin. A different study, with 36 healthy male subjects taking 6 mg daily for six weeks showed improvement in crow’s feet, wrinkles, and elasticity, as well as transepidermal water loss. Studies combining the oral supplement with a topical astaxanthin showed even greater benefits, including self-assessment by the subjects. Natural astaxanthin has been shown to be very safe and non-toxic. Supplements range from 4-12 mg dosages and Evergreen Nutrition carries a variety in our Eye Health section. With the summer sun (hopefully) coming our way, you can protect your skin and muscles and eyes and more during outdoor and indoor activities!    

Cleanse Your Body For Optimal Health

Do you know that most digestive specialists say that you should cleanse your body twice a year? Cleansing is the ancient practice of taking herbs, fiber and other nutritional supplements to clean out the channels of elimination in your body: your colon, kidneys, liver, blood, skin and lymphatic system. The single greatest challenge your body faces is the effective management of toxins. Cleansing helps your body get rid of the toxins it accumulates when your organs get overworked by stress, pesticides and other harmful chemicals that accumulate in the tissues of your body. The average American consumes about 14 pounds of unwanted chemicals per year. Chemicals such as hormones and antibiotics fed to animals, pesticides used on plants and crops, molecules from plastic wrap and plastic storage containers overwhelm your body. Cleansing helps your body flush these toxins and regain optimal health. The following list of symptoms indicates a need for cleansing:

• Allergy or intolerance to certain foods
• Bad breath and foul-smelling gas and stools
• Constipation, sluggish elimination, irregular bowel movements, diarrhea
• Frequent colds, congestion, viruses
• Frequent headaches for no apparent reason
• Intolerance to fatty foods
• Low energy; loss of vitality for no apparent reason
• Lowered resistance to infections
• Needing to sleep excessively
• Pain in your liver or gall bladder
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), breast soreness, vaginal infections
• Skin problems, rashes, acne

If you are among the millions of people who suffer from these and other health problems and you want to heal your body and also prevent serious diseases, such as cancer, you will benefit from starting a cleansing program today. Any cleansing program should begin by clearing the colon of old feces that might be getting in the way of effective elimination. Americans spend $700 million on laxatives every year, so it is no surprise that constipation is the most frequently reported digestive disorder. When you eat, food can become backed up in your intestines for much longer than it should. If food moves slowly through the colon, it will decay and release toxins into the bloodstream through the very thin walls of the intestines. If you try to clean your blood, your liver, your lymph without first addressing a stopped up large intestine, the released toxins will get back into your body and make you sicker than before you started cleansing. Fibers, such as ground flax seed, acacia gum and psyllium husks, are an essential part to any cleansing program. Research indicates that at least 60 grams of fiber are needed to sweep toxins out of the intestines and act like sponges that absorb the toxins you are trying to get rid of and pull them out of your body through fecal elimination. Fiber also increases the number of bowel movements you have per day – very effective for preventing these toxins from getting back into the bloodstream. Fiber also feeds the acidophilus and other good bacteria in your intestines that are necessary for good colon health. Taking good bacteria, or probiotics, during a cleanse helps you establish optimal digestion. After you cleanse your colon, you should complete an all-over-body cleanse that simultaneously cleans all of your organs of elimination: the kidneys, skin, liver, blood and lymphatic system. Cleanses of this type last from one week to one month or longer, depending on the strength of the cleansing program and how deeply you want to cleanse your body. You can choose from cleanses that are designed for particular areas of your body. For instance, if you have had kidney stones in the past, you should consider completing a kidney cleanse. If you have metal fillings in your teeth that often contain mercury, you would benefit from a heavy metal cleanse. Fillings slowly release mercury and other metals into your bloodstream and this toxic load can cause a variety of health problems, including anxiety, depression and memory loss. Liver, blood and lymphatic system cleanses are available. Also, detrimental yeast (Candida Albicans) and parasite cleansing programs target these harmful organisms. As you can see, there are a lot of different cleansing options available for you to choose from. At Evergreen Nutrition, our knowledgeable staff can help you evaluate your body’s needs and choose a cleansing program that is right for you.

From Evergreen’s Archives: April 2007

Ashwagandha: Herbal Rejuvenator

When an herbal substance has a history of (safe) use for more than 3,000 years and is currently one of the most popular and requested herbs in our store, we take notice. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as winter cherry, is one of the most important herbs in the traditional Ayurvedic medicine of India. It is known as an herbal rasayana, meaning a rejuvenative substance of the highest order. Its name translates to “strength of a horse” and refers to not only its pungent aroma but also the legendary virility it may impart. This herb’s benefits stretch far, far beyond endurance and libido, however. According to herbalist Michael Tierra of Planetary Herbals, the man responsible for bringing this herb to the west decades ago, ashwagandha is the primary strengthening tonic used in Ayurveda and may treat a multitude of conditions including arthritis, insomnia, impotence, infertility, poor growth in children, and diseases of aging. Unlike other aphrodisiac herbs, it is safe and not overstimulating. He says that it promotes sound sleep and supports yoga and meditation.

Adaptogen

In the many years since Mr. Tierra introduced ashwagandha, hundreds of clinical studies have been done on the constituents and pharmacological activity of this herb. In this country, it is most known as an exalted adaptogen, found in nearly every herbal product for supporting the adrenal glands. The withanolide phytochemicals appear to support the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, a central hormone pathway involving the stress hormones cortisol and adrenalin. Ashwagandha’s compounds modulate and dampen the stress hormone response, thereby improving the body’s resistance to stress and stressors. Energy is increased by virtue of this balance restoration. This is a classic adaptogen at work, the definition of adaptogen being a non-toxic substance which produces a nonspecific resistance to stress (on a cellular level), and has a normalizing effect on body systems. In addition to these effects, it may be considered anxiolytic (anxiety relieving) in that it appears to influence GABA receptor function.

Cognition

Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance cognition and memory in various studies. One of the constituents of the root is the compound choline, which in the body is converted to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, important for learning and memory. The degradation of this neurotransmitter may lead to a decline in cognitive function. Drugs used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease inhibit the enzyme in the body which naturally breaks down acetylcholine, thereby maintaining or increasing levels of this critical neurotransmitter. Ashwagandha has been shown to modulate the degrading enzyme’s activity, thus improving cognition.

“Anti-Aging”

In Ayurvedic traditional medicine, as mentioned, ashwagandha is considered a premier tonic herb in that it balances body systems and increases resistance to stress and lowered immunity. In one double-blind, clinical trial, 101 healthy men aged 50-59 years received a dosage of three grams ashwagandha daily for one year. After a year, significant improvements were observed in hemoglobin, red blood cell counts, hair melanin concentrations, and serum cholesterol concentrations. Many animal studies have shown enhanced total white blood cell counts as well as profound effects on the hematopoietic system (formation of blood cells). In vitro studies using withanolides from ashwagandha inhibited the growth of human breast, lung, and colon cancer lines. Ashwagandha is also thyrotropic (exerts a direct influence on the secretory activity of the thyroid gland). Evergreen Nutrition carries over 8 different single ashwagandha products plus many more formula products containing this remarkable herb. In fact, we have a locally-sourced ashwagandha from Portland Ashwagandha Farm. Many customers are using it as a sleep aid. In this regard it is quite safe, not habit-forming, and may be combined with other relaxing herbs such as valerian and passionflower.

Vaccine Detox

With the particularly virulent influenza virus currently making the rounds, many people are seeking to protect themselves by receiving an influenza vaccination. With these vaccinations come several drawbacks which may be of concern to some. The main issue with negative effects of vaccinations comes from the inclusion of heavy metals aluminum and mercury as preservatives in the vaccines. The potential for these heavy metals to harm the body is very real. In addition to the toxic metals present in vaccines, most of them also contain formaldehyde, which causes damage to multiple body systems. In this newsletter we will explore some of ways one may detoxify the body from the heavy metals and other deleterious compounds in vaccines.

Detoxification & Liver

Proper liver function is critical to the body’s detoxification processes, of course, but even more so with heavy metal removal. Basic liver function needs to be carried out effectively as the liver uses bile to get rid of mercury and other toxic metals. The amino acid taurine is a major constituent of bile, and may be helpful here as it is also a sulfur-containing amino acid. Sulfur is a powerful detoxifying agent and is depleted by heavy metals. The supplement MSM is biological, available sulfur and is an inexpensive and easy way to boost the body’s detoxification pathways. Many of the nutrients which assist heavy metal detoxification unfortunately are depleted by the very heavy metals themselves, so it is important to obtain these critical compounds to help the body’s removal of the toxic load. The mineral selenium is a constituent of antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, a powerful detoxifying compound. Look for selenomethionine or yeast-bound selenium, both excellent forms. Heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, cadmium, and even unbound copper all decrease the body’s master detoxifying compound, glutathione, causing a vicious cycle of destruction and overload as toxins build and build with no protection or removal. There are glutathione supplements readily available, and another way to increase this antioxidant is by taking the amino acid N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC). NAC and glutathione directly support the liver, helping to protect the body from harmful substances. (See our newsletter on NAC.) Another liver detox pathway impaired by heavy metals is the glucuronidation pathway. Calcium d-glucarate supplements support this elimination process and prevent the cessation of toxin removal.

Herbal Allies

In addition to certain amino acids and minerals involved in detoxification, many plants possess phytochemicals and properties to assist in mobilization and removal of toxic metals. Turmeric, milk thistle, schisandra, and artichoke all benefit the liver in one capacity or another. Artichoke helps the flow of bile, and thus the excretion of toxins. The green micro-algae chlorella is justly famous for its ability to bind to heavy metals such as mercury and facilitate their removal from body tissues. Certain compounds found in seaweeds such as kelp and bladderwrack also bind to heavy metals and speed removal. Cilantro is a powerful agent for transporting toxic metals out of areas such as the brain where they have lodged. It is particularly effective when combined with chlorella. Some other nutrients which are depleted by heavy metal accumulation and may assist in removal are vitamin C and the B vitamins, particularly the coenzymated (methylated) forms. The methylation pathway dealing with detoxification is also impaired by heavy metals. A good multivitamin is definitely prudent as well if one is dealing with heavy metals. Health can be a delicate balance at times and Evergreen Nutrition as always strives to provide optimum options for healthy living.

Magnesium Threonate

By now many people are familiar with the benefits of the mineral magnesium. What is not so widely known is that there are many forms of magnesium. Some of these forms have a certain affinity for body systems or areas. For example, magnesium malate has a particular affinity for muscles and is often used to assuage the pain of fibromyalgia. Magnesium glycinate, a superior form due to its bond to an amino acid making it well-absorbed, may be a good choice for sleep. The amino acid glycine to which it is bound is an inhibitory neurotransmitter and thus may relieve a racing mind and “mental chatter” which often make sleep elusive. Regardless of how well some of these forms are absorbed in the body, none of them are able to cross the blood-brain barrier (bbb) to any great extent and exert their beneficial effects upon the brain. The afore-mentioned magnesium glycinate’s glycine content may reach the brain but unfortunately the mineral may not. Now, however, there is a new, extremely well-researched form of this mineral which has the ability to cross the bbb and exert some truly amazing effects. Researchers at MIT in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Science discovered that the Vitamin C metabolite magnesium L-threonate (MgT) is highly bioavailable and increases brain levels of the mineral like no other. The resulting effects range from increases in cognition, memory, and learning, to improvements in sleep and anxiety and even PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder).

Plasticity/Learning

  The term “learning” means the process by which the brain is able to store new information by forming new connections between neurons in what are called networks. This process is an example of “neuroplasticity” and depends upon the formation of these connections as well as the numbers made. Synapses are the connections that allow one nerve cell to communicate with the next. It is theorized that loss of synapses is a main factor in age-dependent memory decline. The formation of synapses is partly dependent upon magnesium, which activates nerve channels that are involved in synaptic plasticity. Ultimately, the result is the increase in physiological processes of learning and memory. Since MgT has the unique ability to cross the bbb, it is able to influence factors involved in these processes. Scientists at MIT found that MgT is able to penetrate into the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, two areas of the brain which are known to shrink with age. In a series of experiments, these scientists administered MgT to mice and rats for a period and found that there was a 50% increase in the number of synapses. It was also shown that MgT enhances learning and both short- and long-term memory in young and aging rats.

Anxiety/Sleep

As previously mentioned MgT penetrates the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, areas of the brain involved in cognition and memory. In addition to these areas and the beneficial effects induced there, MgT reaches the amygdala. Part of the limbic system, the oldest and most primal part of the brain, the amygdala is involved in the processing of emotions such as fear and anger. Included in fear is the conditioning of this emotion, an associative learning process by which we learn through repeated experiences to fear something. An example of this is PTSD. In this anxiety disorder this reaction is enhanced so that the fear memory continues even when one is no longer in danger, affecting cognitive ability on a daily basis. MgT reaching the amygdala is able to “extinguish” fear associated with painful memories. According to the MIT researchers, MgT is able to affect inhibition of fear memory. Through enhanced cognitive ability, fear responses such as PTSD-behaviors are controlled. The MIT team says that magnesium threonate is a potential supplement to cognitive therapy and a treatment for phobias, PTSD, and other anxiety-related disorders. One very interesting side effect has been reported by nearly everyone giving testimonials about their use of magnesium threonate, including this author. Greatly improved sleep quality seems to be associated with use of this form of the mineral. As the relaxing effects of magnesium are well-known, it stands to reason that a form reaching the brain would induce its relaxing effects there and improve sleep as well as anxiety. Evergreen stocks MgT in our brain section as well as with our other magnesium supplements.        

How To Improve Your Prostate Health

Are you among the estimated 75 percent of men who are deficient in zinc? Your prostate health could be at risk if your dietary supplements do not include this essential mineral. Zinc is an important mineral that lives in almost every cell in your body and is in charge of a wide range of chemical reactions that you need for life. Men need zinc perhaps more than anyone else because high levels of zinc are concentrated in the prostate. When zinc levels drop, men become vulnerable to prostate enlargement, a condition that half of all men will experience at some stage of their lives. Enlarged prostate causes frequent, painful urination, incontinence and impaired sexual performance. Did you know that prostate cancer is now the number one cancer affecting men of all races in the United States? Studies show that enlarged prostate can lead to prostate cancer. Why is zinc important to your prostate health? Zinc prevents the male hormone testosterone from creating a harmful by-product in your body called DHT, which ultimately causes enlarged prostate and can lead to prostate cancer. Research shows that men supplementing their diets with zinc have reduced prostate enlargement in 75 percent of cases. I recommend eating zinc-rich foods, such as seafood and leafy green vegetables. But you won’t cover your bases with your diet alone. Soil in most parts of the country is zinc-deficient, so your food is not the excellent source of zinc that it once was. It is estimated that only about one-third of food-delivered zinc is retained in the body. At Evergreen Nutrition we have high quality zinc supplements to help you boost your zinc levels and avoid dangerous deficiency symptoms, such as slow wound healing, impaired taste and smell, night blindness and impaired immune response. Zinc supplements also provide good news for infertile couples. Infertility affects about one in five couples in the United States. In a study of 22 infertile men, zinc supplements for two and a half months resulted in nine of the couples achieving successful pregnancies. Zinc also protects you from osteoporosis by promoting mineral absorption and keeping your bones healthy. Zinc slows vision loss in individuals with macular degeneration, a common cause of blindness in individuals over age 50. Zinc is a proven skin healer. Wounds and acne are skin problems that improve by adding zinc to your body. If colds and flu are slowing you down, sucking on zinc lozenges can dramatically reduce the duration and severity of your symptoms. Forty-five years ago the FDA thought zinc was a toxic metal and should not be consumed. We now know that it’s an essential nutrient for a wide range of your body’s functions. There are many good reasons to add zinc to your health regimen.

From Evergreen’s Archive: April 2006

Himalayan Salt Crystal Lamps

If you have ever driven past our store in the evening or late at night, you may have noticed the soft orange glow emanating from our windows. The Himalayan salt lamps responsible for this soothing ambience are much more than just pretty nightlights, however. Originating from Pakistan, the salt crystals are mined in a region of the Himalayas that is home to a vast deposit of salt, ranging in color according to altitude. Salt crystals, due to their biochemical/biophysical nature, possess unique characteristics. In essence, they are natural ion generators. They are also able to adjust and harmonize, or neutralize, artificial electromagnetic frequencies resulting from (constant exposure to) electronic devices. These two main characteristics may have myriad health benefits.

What Are Negative Ions?

A negative ion is an electrically charged oxygen molecule. Fresh air, the oceanside (surf), waterfalls and heavy rain all contain (produce) high amounts of these particles, and these are areas where people report feelings of invigoration and well-being. In salt lamps, the heated salt crystal of the lamp attracts moisture in the air to the surface of the crystal. Sodium and chloride ions are then emitted into the air along with the attracted water molecules evaporating. This results in a negative and neutral ion transmission interaction which is unique to the mineral salt.

Ionizing Benefits

A balance in the favor of negative ions may result in physiological benefits such as improvements in blood circulation, immune function, athletic performance, and respiratory function in particular. Some symptomatic relief may be had from asthma and bronchitis where the underlying cause of these conditions is excessive exposure to positive ions. People report relief from allergies, speedier healing of wounds, and increased alertness and concentration. Also, through the interaction of hydrogen and oxygen, as well as sodium and chloride ions, the air is cleansed. This action helps to reduce dust and animal dander measurably, as well as cigarette smoke.

EMF Protection

The earth and the mammals on it resonate at a frequency of between 7-8 Hertz per second. Electronic devices in modern life such as cell phones, computers and wireless networks are surrounded by electromagnetic frequencies much, much higher than this. These unnatural wavelengths are disruptive and dangerous to us. Some manifestations of this may be irritability, stress, insomnia, and illness. Salt crystals equalize these artificial frequencies and amplify the natural, balanced 8-10 Hertz frequency necessary for health. For this reason, it is popular to place a salt lamp near a computer or television or other device.

Ethically Produced

Salt lamps from California-based Aloha Bay are manufactured in a family-owned factory in Mipur, Pakistan, which cares for its craftsmen, offering long-term employment, humane working conditions, and good wages and benefits. The makers of eco-friendly Evolution salt lamps practice fair trade, treating their employees with dignity and respect, and use socially responsible manufacturing practices.

Care

Since your crystal lamp is salt, it should not be subjected to high moisture as it may melt somewhat. It is not advisable to place your lamp in areas of high humidity such as bathrooms, kitchens or near open windows. If you feel your lamp is dirty or dusty, a damp cloth may be used to wipe the surface. The light bulbs used in the lamps are 15 watts. Enjoy the warm light of your salt crystal lamp!

Thyroid Health 101

Thyroid Health 101

by Terry Lemerond, Natural Health Expert and Author If you feel chronically tired, notice your hair falling out, can’t seem to lose weight, or have difficulty tolerating cold temperatures, your thyroid could be to blame. Then again, if you suddenly find yourself feeling more anxious, experiencing unexplainable weight loss, or feeling hot when others around you don’t—well, that could be a thyroid issue too. The truth is, a lot can go wrong with this important gland. Your thyroid is a tiny, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. Though small in size, it has a big bearing on your overall wellness. The thyroid is fueled by iodine obtained through foods you eat, and its job consists of producing and releasing hormones called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) into the bloodstream. T3 and T4 regulate everything from heart rate to body weight to cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, the thyroid is notorious for malfunctioning in one way or another. An estimated 20 million Americans have some sort of thyroid disease. Thyroid cancer, hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s disease), and hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease) are the most prevalent thyroid conditions today. While both males and females are affected, women are five to eight times more likely than men to suffer from thyroid disorders.

Why is Thyroid Disease So Widespread?

Our modern diet and environment have a lot to do with it. Your thyroid is constantly under attack by things like chlorine, fluoride, and bromide, which your body absorbs through food, water, and various environmental toxins. Other factors that interfere with proper thyroid function include digestive imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic stress. The good news is that there are a number of ways to help your body restore healthy thyroid function. The best place to start is with proper supplementation.

Why is Iodine so Important?

Iodine is a trace mineral that your body requires in order to produce balanced amounts of important thyroid hormones, T3 and T4. It’s also been shown to lower the incidence of breast and prostate cancer, prevent fibrocystic breast disease, and increase the health of uterine and ovarian tissue. Unfortunately, it’s extremely difficult to obtain iodine through diet alone. While iodine used to be present in bread and most other foods made from flour, it has mostly been removed from these daily food staples and replaced with bromide. Bromide actually affects the iodine receptors in your body negatively. Today, your best bet for obtaining sufficient iodine is through supplements. The best formulas deliver three forms of iodine—sodium iodide, potassium iodide, and molecular iodide.

Other Thyroid-Nourishing Nutrients

In addition to iodine, your thyroid also requires nutrients like L-tyrosine and selenium. L-tyrosine is an amino acid required to create the thyroid hormone thyroxine to support mental well-being and daily energy. Selenium is a key mineral that is most abundantly found in the thyroid and critical to proper thyroid function. It supports the conversion of T4 into the active thyroid hormone, T3. Selenium works seamlessly with iodine and L-tyrosine to protect the thyroid from the risk of oxidative stress and cancer. If you’re looking to protect your thyroid, start supplementing with iodine, L-tyrosine, and selenium today. The experts at your local health food store can recommend the best brands and dosages to get your thyroid health on track.

Our Guest Writer

Terry Lemerond is a natural health expert with over 45 years of experience. He has owned health food stores, founded dietary supplement companies, and formulated over 400 products. A much sought-after speaker and accomplished author, Terry shares his wealth of experience and knowledge in health and nutrition through his educational programs, including the Terry Talks Nutrition website, newsletters, podcasts, webinars, and personal speaking engagements. His books include Seven Keys to Vibrant Health and the sequel, Seven Keys to Unlimited Personal Achievement, and his newest publication, 50+ Natural Health Secrets Proven to Change Your Life. His continual dedication, energy, and zeal are part of his on-going mission — to improve the health of America.