What is Fucoxanthin?

Fucoxanthin (pronounced FEW-co-ZAN-thin) is a type of carotenoid pigment found in brown sea weeds such as wakame and hijiki and to a lesser extent in red and green sea weeds. Although brown seaweed is the richest source of fucoxanthin, it is not easily absorbed and utilized directly from that source. Do not consume large amounts of seaweed which is rich in iodine; excessive iodine consumption may interfere with normal thyroid functioning. Garden of Life’s fucoTHIN is a safe way to get fucoxanthin in clinically effective levels. Although it’s not fully understood how fucoxanthin works, it appears to stimulate the expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1 also known as thermogenin) which promotes thermogenesis in white fat cells. Thermogenesis is the creation of heat from increased metabolic rate utilizing internal stores of energy, such as fat. White fat accumulates in the liver and around the abdomen (visceral fat) and is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. Fucoxanthin does not stimulate the central nervous system or increase heart rate. Not only is it safe with no side effects, it is a powerful antioxidant. In addition, it improves cardiovascular health, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and liver function. It also increases the production of DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid naturally occurring in fish oil) thereby reducing C-reactive proteins, a marker for inflammation. There is also evidence suggesting that fucoxanthin may be of use in treating diabetes and cancer. In clinical trials in Russia, over 100 obese women consumed 1,800 calories a day while taking fucoxanthin or a placebo. During the 16-week study, the placebo group lost an average of only 3 pounds. Those taking fucoxanthin lost an average of 14.5 pounds and increased their metabolic rate by 18.2% to 24%, depending on the dosage. Participants who consumed the equivalent of 3 fucoTHIN capsules increased their metabolic rate an average of 18.2% and began to see results in 5-6 weeks. Those taking the equivalent of 10 fucoTHIN capsules increased their metabolic rate by nearly 24% and began to see results in just 2-3 weeks. In addition, the women taking fucoxanthin also reduced liver fat, blood pressure, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein. Garden of Life’s fucoTHIN, a combination of fucoxanthin and standardized pomegranate seed oil, uses the same doses used in the Russian research. By harvesting the brown seaweed at a young age, fucoTHIN delivers fucoxanthin in a concentration 250 to 500 times greater than whole sea veggies. Pomegranate seed oil contains punicic acid, sometimes called super CLA, which works synergistically with fucoxanthin to support natural thermogenesis. Please note that fucoTHIN´s fat-burning results come on gradually. It can take 5 to 6 weeks at one capsule per meal, but by taking 9 to 10 capsules per day in divided doses, results may be noticed in as little as 2 to 3 weeks. In any case, it takes time for your metabolism to shift, so be patient. In addition to fucoTHIN softgels, we have fucoTHIN high protein/high fiber bars in chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Or you may want to try the fucoTHIN kit which contains free samples of other Garden of Life products.

From Evergreen’s Archives: March 2008

Local Vendor Month

During the month of August we like to highlight our vendors from Oregon and Washington with sales and product demonstrations. There are over thirty excellent companies from the Northwest that we feature. Take a look at our August Sales to see how much you can save.

MEET OUR NEWEST LOCAL VENDOR

Twenty years ago Dr. Cindy Schmillen, a naturopathic doctor in Nampa, Idaho, created BALANCED GREEN ENERGY FOOD for use with her patients because she believes that mineral imbalances are at the heart of many diseases. Much of the food we eat today has diminished nutritional value which forces the body to use up its stored minerals to keep it functioning properly. Balanced Green Energy Food is a blend of eleven raw, organic nutrient-dense superfoods with no fillers, sweeteners, gluten or GMOs. It helps to gently detoxify the body while balancing pH. Each 8 gram serving has only 23 calories but is packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and other phytonutrients plus 3 billion probiotics. In addition, Balanced Green’s liquid FULVIC MINERALS, enhances the power of Energy Food since fulvic acid activates nutrients on the cellular level. Eugene natives Richard and Leah Clough started using Balanced Green Energy Food ten years ago and it literally changed their lives. Then, a year-and-a-half ago, they were given the exclusive rights to bring it to market in order to help others achieve good health and vitality in a natural, nourishing way. For more information go to their website Balanced Green. Balanced Green Energy Food and Fulvic Minerals are on sale in August for 20% OFF.

NEW HAMPSHIRE COMPANY HAS LOCAL CONNECTION

MEGAFOOD is a leading manufacturer of 100% whole food supplements – real veggies and fruits go into their products. Their best selling product, BLOOD BUILDER, is made with beets grown in the Willamette Valley at STAHLBUSH ISLAND FARM. Stahlbush not only bans the use of GMO seed but is certified sustainable by the Food Alliance. For example, using fruit and vegetable byproducts, they produce twice the electricity required to run the farm: enough power for over a thousand households. For more information on their sustainability practices go to their website where you can also learn about their symbiotic relationship with great blue herons and other wildlife. Blood Builder is on sale for 25% OFF throughout August.

UNIQUE EUGENE

Unique Eugene was started in 1999 when a group of local small-business owners decided to get together to pool marketing resources. They have grown into a community organization committed to treating employees and the environment with respect and contributing to local non-profits and/or performing community service. Take a closer look at uniqueeugene.com and look for their logo at a variety of businesses in town.

WHY IT MATTERS

“A dollar spent at a locally owned store is usually spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the community. From $1, you create $5 to $14 in value within that community….Spend $1 at a national chain store, and 80% leaves town immediately.”– Tim Mitchell, Northwest Earth Institute’s Choices for Sustainable Living Evergreen Nutrition carries products from over one dozen vendors from right here in Eugene. We hope that you will decide to “keep your green in Eugene” and support our local vendors as well as vendors throughout the region.

From Evergreen’s Archive: August 2014

Special Delivery: Liposomal Vitamins

When taking nutritional supplements, one key issue is absorption or bioavailability of the substance. For certain nutrients in supplement form, various options exist which may be superior to the other in some manner. Some examples with which Evergreen shoppers may be familiar are Coenzyme Q-10 (ubiquinone) and its better absorbed companion ubiquinol; Alpha Lipoic Acid and its better absorbed kin R-Lipoic Acid; and Ester-C or buffered vitamin C compared with straight ascorbic acid. With regard to vitamin C, large amounts of ascorbic acid can cause gastric problems. Ester C and other buffered vitamin C products use minerals to buffer the acidity of the ascorbic acid and thus improve absorption as well as enable increased dosages without difficulty. One method to increase absorption of nutrients is a technology called liposomal delivery.

What are Liposomes?

Liposomes are artificially made but derived from a very natural substance. They are sacs (think air bubble or shield) comprised of a phospholipid. Phospholipids are constituents of the membrane of cells. Every cell in the body has this phospholipid portion, and transport of nutrients into and out of the cell is dependent on the fluidity of these membranes. (Check out this fun Crash Course video for more info.) Liposomes mimic natural cell membrane phospholipids. As far as nutritional supplements go, the liposomal technology takes a nutrient such as the water soluble vitamin C and encloses it in a sphere of the phospholipid-like liposome, and presto! What you have is dramatically increased delivery and absorption of the nutrient.

Vitamin C Liposome Benefits

As mentioned earlier , this nutrient ordinarily is water soluble. There exists a supplement called ascorbyl palmitate which basically binds ascorbic acid to a fat making it soluble in fatty areas of the body such as the skin. With liposomal C, however, the nutrient is able to obtain entry more easily across any cell due to the phospholipid structure. This is not the only delivery benefit. Liposomes encasing nutrients also can form liposomes in the stomach, an area of high motion. These liposomes can help the nutrient gain entry across your gut membrane to its target organs and cells. More liposomes could lead to an increased rate of absorption. With the vitamin C liposomally bound, gastrointestinal problems due to acidity will not occur. According to Dr. Mercola, manufacturer of a Liposomal Vitamin C product, people at risk for vitamin C deficiency include the elderly, smokers, and college students. These people may benefit from the improved absorption benefits of this technology. Dr. Mercola’s Liposomal Vitamin C supplies 1,000 mg in 2 capsules and uses sunflower lecithin for their liposomal process. Lecithin is a natural source of phospholipids. Found in soy and egg yolks also, this substance’s phospholipids deliver many benefits to the human body, such as improved brain function due to the structures incorporating themselves into brain matter.

Vitamin D

Also featured by Dr. Mercola products is a liposomal-bound Vitamin D. This delivers 5,000 international units per vegetarian capsule. The vitamin D is cholecalciferol, vitamin D3, the preferred form for absorption over vitamin D2. These capsules are gluten free, soy free, and are easy to swallow.

Liposomal Skin Care

Liposomal delivery can also be found in many skin care products, such as the Ultra Aesthetics line. Their MSM Serum C, for example, contains Vitamins C and B5 in liposome form and their Alpha Lipoic Revitalizing Moisturizer has antioxidant Vitamins E, A and C in this special delivery format.

Resveratrol

Of prime status in our antioxidant section is the plant-derived compound resveratrol. Recipient of more studies and renown than probably any other botanical antioxidant except turmeric perhaps, the science is undeniable and compelling. First coming to attention as a purported major factor in the French Paradox, everyone from Harvard University to the National Cancer Institute to the National Library of Medicine have since studied the compound and demonstrated an astonishing array of benefits to the human body. Resveratrol is clasified as a phytoalexin, which is an antioxidant compound plants produce to protect themselves from environmental stress (UV radiation) or pathogenic attacks such as fungal infestation. Grapes are the most famous source, in particular the skins, and other sources are mulberries, peanuts, the Japanese knotweed plant, and even dark chocolate. It is the amount of red wine (and the inherent content of resveratrol) which the French drink which is thought to be one of the reasons for that population’s relatively low incidence of cardiac disease despite their high consumption of fatty foods such as cream, butter, and cheese. This “French Paradox” is likely also related to heart-healthy olive oil consumption, but it is the red wine’s resveratrol which was first recognized as important here.

Longevity Gene

The most famous research involving resveratrol showed that the compound mimics the effects of caloric restriction on extending lifespan. Caloric restriction seems to be one of the best-documented anti-aging methods, with all animals in which it has been tested showing improved multiple aspects of age-related decline. How this works is through producing changes in gene expression that are associated with a long life and a slowing of the aging process. Specifically, resveratrol influences and activates a sirtuin gene known as SIRT2 involved in aging, life-span regulation and cell death. What “turning back the clock” or “the fountain of youth” mean to the body is a litany of improved processes and functions: increased insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar, enhanced mitochondrial energy production, improved motor function, and less chromosomal damage that typically accompanies aging. It is believed that activation of the sirtuin gene may have therapeutic potential for many human diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart failure, and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease.

Cardiovascular Support

Resveratrol’s activity is not relegated solely to longevity via gene expression. It is a very powerful antioxidant with many effects benefiting human cardiovascular health in particular. It inhibits the oxidation of dangerous LDL, and its potent anti-inflammatory action leads to inhibition of atherosclerosis. It appears to influence endothelial cell function and nitric oxide activity, which lead to improved blood flow and circulation. Resveratrol may help to prevent arrhythmias and also inhibit abnormal blood clotting. It inhibits platelet aggregation (stickiness of blood cells) and thus may help prevent stroke and heart attacks.

Cancer 

Resveratrol has been shown to exhibit a broad range of anti-cancer properties. It affects multiple pathways and systems of protection in this regard. Not only does it suppress angiogenesis (the process of new blood vessels forming which feed tumors), it increases apoptosis (cancer cell death). It has been shown to inhibit cancers of the colon, kidneys, esophagus, skin, lung, prostate, liver, ovaries, pancreas, thyroid, and more. Through its various mechanisms, resveratrol may enhance the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs and radiation. To summarize its anti-cancer activity, resveratrol has been shown to be effective against cancer in all three phases of the cancer process, initiation, promotion, and progression. It reduces inflammatory markers, increases antioxidant status such as glutathione, and increases amounts of detoxifying enzymes. Resveratrol is not known to be toxic or cause adverse effects in humans, although there are a few cautions as with most supplements. For example, since it is an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, theoretically, high doses could increase the risk of bruising and bleeding when taken with anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and heparin. Supplements range anywhere from 1-500 mg. Look for supplements containing trans-Resveratrol, the more biologically active form.

Good for Your Skin, Too

In addition, resveratrol and other antioxidants are beneficial for the skin which is constantly subjected to free-radical damage from UV radiation, environmental toxins and even normal cellular processes.

Supplements for Quitting Smoking

Nicotine: A Serious Addiction

Out of the various common substances in daily life to which one may become addicted, there is no question that nicotine (tobacco) is one of the most difficult to overcome. Quitting smoking requires tremendous effort as addiction may create both a psychological and chemical dependency. The processes that determine nicotine addiction are similar to those that determine addiction to such drugs as heroin and cocaine. Brain chemistry is significantly altered by this alkaloid found in tobacco. Nicotine binds to nicotinic acid receptors in the “pleasure center” of the brain. It acts as a stimulant, activating dopamine receptors. Simplified, once stimulated, these receptors want to be stimulated again and again and again creating the craving for nicotine.

Damaging Effects of Nicotine

Chemically and physiologically, nicotine does a real number on the body. Constantly stimulating dopamine receptors results in an imbalance in neurotransmitters, affecting dopamine, acetylcholine and GABA. Even adrenalin, which as everyone knows is a profound stimulant, will not match the stimulatory craving of nicotine. What ultimately happens is that addicted tobacco smokers will subconsciously alter their nicotine intake to maintain a certain level in the bloodstream, or suffer withdrawal symptoms. In the body, nicotine raises total cholesterol levels, raises blood pressure by constricting blood vessels, and depletes certain vitamins and minerals such as thiamin and calcium. Mood swings may develop from the neurotransmitter imbalance. Also, nicotine is tough on the adrenal glands as it is such a stimulant.

Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms

Side-effects of quitting smoking are not pleasant, and may include memory/focus problems, insomnia, depression, increased appetite, and of course, cravings of different sorts. Luckily, there is help available if one desires to quit smoking. There is a wide range of supplements which may do everything from assisting with nicotine cravings to helping your body repair from the ravages caused by nicotine addiction.

Five Supplements to Assist in Quitting Smoking

Herbal Allies to Help You Break the Habit

As far as decreasing cravings for nicotine itself, there is one tried and true herb used in many European smoking-cessation preparations. Lobelia inflata contains a component chemically similar to nicotine, although less potent, which binds to nicotine receptors and thus acts to reduce or mask the side-effects of nicotine addiction/withdrawal without itself being addictive. Avena sativa, or oat “milky” seed has been traditionally used to curb addiction from opiates and alcohol, as well as nicotine. This herb acts as a tonifier to the nervous system. In a placebo-controlled study, it greatly reduced the number of cigarettes smoked by subjects who were not making a conscious effort to quit smoking.

Neurotransmitter Support

Quitting smoking and the subsequent reduction in nicotine will impact the altered brain chemistry caused by the addiction. Support here is mainly found in amino acids which are precursors to important brain neurotransmitters. These substances will help to calm the over-firing of chemicals caused by the nicotine’s stimulation. GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It both calms and relaxes the mind, and also inhibits the over-production of dopamine caused by nicotine. It may assist in sleep as well, relieving the insomnia which may be a withdrawal symptom. 5-HTP is the amino acid precursor to serotonin. It has been clinically shown to relieve withdrawal symptoms. By increasing the “feel-good” chemical serotonin, it assists with mood, and may normalize the fluctuating levels caused by cessation since nicotine initially increases this chemical and quitting smoking will reduce normal amounts.

Detoxification Support

Nicotine is a poison to the body. Toxins in the body must be filtered by the liver and converted to less harmful substances. One of the main compounds in the body to support this is the amino acid N-acetyl-cysteine. This precursor to the body’s main antioxidant and detoxifying molecule, glutathione, helps both the lungs and liver to process and detoxify invading toxins. Along with nicotine, cigarette smoke is loaded with other toxic substances. NAC will help to neutralize these toxins as well as offer general lung function support, something which smokers will need. Tobacco smoking depletes this amino acid in the body, so supplementing with this will offer incredible support to the quitting smoker.

Benefits of Quitting Smoking

If you place any value on your brain, heart, lungs or liver, at the least, then you will be happy to learn that all these organs and virtually the entire body will benefit when you quit smoking. Reduced risk of stroke, heart attack and other cardiopulmonary issues, improved lung function, and improved mood, sleep, memory and more may result. In short, you will feel and look better, and will improve your health. The above  supplements are available to help you with your decision to quit smoking/nicotine.  

The Mineral Boron

The trace mineral boron, B on the periodic table of elements, is not as well known as some of its flashier mineral shelf-mates, but its importance in human nutrition, for decades not entirely understood, is shown by studies to be vital to many facets of health.

B is for Bones

The most famous research on this mineral has focused on its role in calcium maintenance in the body and thus bone health and prevention of osteoporosis. In a nutshell, boron has been determined to induce mineralization of (bone-building) osteoblasts by regulating the expression of genes related to tissue mineralization and the actions of key hormones (estradiol, testosterone, and vitamin D) involved in bone growth and turnover. What this means as far as calcium and bones is that boron seems to have a complex relationship with other minerals involved in bone tissue building and maintenance. In one well-publicized study from the late ’80s, twelve post-menopausal women consumed a very low boron diet for 17 weeks. They were then given a daily 3 mg boron supplement for seven more weeks. Within 8 days of initial supplementation they lost 40 percent less calcium, one-third less magnesium, and slightly less phosphorus through their urine. Their calcium and magnesium losses were lower than prestudy levels, when they were on normal diets. The three minerals are necessary to keep bones strong and hard.

Steroid Hormones Effect

Boron has been shown to regulate hormone levels in men and women alike. Increased levels of sex steroids have been demonstrated in both men and women after boron supplementation. The studies from the ’80s involving mineral retention also showed that boron supplementation could result in increased 17 b-estradiol (the active, strong form of estrogen) and testosterone levels in postmenopausal women. Estradiol levels nearly doubled and testosterone levels more than doubled. These increases in steroid hormones positively impact bone health. Further studies involving healthy men found boron supplementation of 6 mg a day to significantly increase free testosterone levels along with an increase in vitamin D levels. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) were decreased.

Other Effects

Boron’s effect on increasing vitamin D levels seems to be a result of the mineral inhibiting an enzyme which breaks down the vitamin, increasing the half-life. This seems also to be the mechanism behind its increase of estradiol. In addition, it has shown dramatic effects in reducing such inflammatory markers as TNF-a (tumor necrosis factor) and C- reactive protein. One study showed a 50% decrease in C-reactive protein levels after one week of 10 mg a day supplementation. CRP is a known predictor of risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), heart attack, and stroke. Other studies have shown increases in superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, the body’s own powerful antioxidant network.

Food Sources of Boron

Food sources of boron include fruits such as pears, apples and grapes. Legumes and leafy green veggies are also good sources. Boron is not found in meat and dairy. Eating your fruits and vegetables may help you maintain healthy bones and hormone levels! Supplemental forms of this mineral are all well-absorbed, such as glycinate and citrate. We carry boron alone or as part of formulas for bone-building and more plus multivitamin and/or mineral combinations in capsules, tablets, liquids and powders. Evergreen Nutrition offers you optimum options for healthy living.

Operating Your Immune System At Peak Efficiency

With cooler fall temperatures and kids back in the classroom, it’s time to think about operating your immune system at peak efficiency. This can be as easy as fine-tuning your diet, reducing stress, and making sure you get enough sleep. It can also include correctly using supplements to help you through the cold and flu season faster and with far fewer symptoms. Evergreen is here to help.

Eliminate Sugar

One simple way to give your diet a tune-up is to reduce or eliminate sugars from your diet. Most processed sweets contribute no real nutritional value and actually drag down your immune system, as well as your energy.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is where we repair and rest our organs and tissues. It is natural to get around eight solid hours of deep sleep while the sun is down. When we are well rested we are more resistant to viruses and germs that can make us sick. If you are having difficulty sleeping soundly through the night, you might want to check out our natural sleep section.

De-Stress

Stress is also incredibly hard on your immune system. Stress causes your thymus gland to shrink, and the thymus gland is very important in immune system protection against infections. This fall, make a point to take time out for yourself. Decrease your daily stress with regular light exercise. Working meditation and prayer into your routine can reduce stress as well. Part of strengthening your body’s immunity is keeping germs and bacteria out. If your stomach doesn’t produce sufficient hydrochloric acid, they can pass through without being destroyed. Paying extra attention to clean hands and fingernails can help block them as well.

Homeopathy & Herbal Support

I also rely on homeopathic and botanical vitamin supplements to keep me healthy throughout the cold and flu season. Oscillococcinum (“oscillo” for short) taken once a week is very effective against flu, especially if increased at the onset of symptoms. As an added defense,Vita Biotic or Wellness Formula at 2-3 pills every 2-3 waking hours usually beats any bug within 24 hours. I’ll also get to bed a couple hours early for extra rest to aid my immune system. If you do experience cold or flu symptoms, I recommend Propolis Echinacea Throat Spray for quick relief of sore throat. Air Power works well to clear coughs and respiratory congestion. And Xclear (pronounced “clear”) clears nasal passages while washing away harmful bacteria. Don’t just take my suggestions. Each of our knowledgeable Evergreen staff has useful ideas to help you and your loved ones boost your immune systems. Call us at 541-485-5100 today and avoid getting the cold or flu this season!

From Evergreen’s Archive: September 2005

Confusion Over Black Pepper Extract

In a recent newsletter, we spoke about the possible downsides to the use of concentrated black pepper extracts, namely BioPerine®, the most widely-used, trademarked product. Since this newsletter has been published we have had some confusion expressed about this subject and thus we would like to clarify matters. Essentially, the previous newsletter was referencing specifically the BioPerine® ingredient. The active ingredient in this extract is the alkaloid piperine, naturally occurring in black pepper. Here it is concentrated to 95%, which is exceedingly strong (concentrated), and this is where problems may arise.

It’s a Matter of Degree

Piperine in an isolated form is available in other forms than the trademarked and concentrated BioPerine®. Lesser concentrations than the 95% piperine are used by many supplement manufacturers, and as those ingredients are not so strong, there is not the caution involved that the BioPerine® has. To put it in perspective, the amount of piperine in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) varies from 2% to 7.4% and possibly as high as 9%. To review, an incredibly concentrated 95% piperine will decrease intestinal impermeabilty and may also potentiate the action of pharmaceutical drugs. This means that the drugs will remain in the body longer, taking much more time to be metabolized and broken down by the liver.  

Another Caution

Another issue which was not mentioned previously is its effects on reproduction in males and females. Highly concentrated piperine lowers sperm production and decreases testosterone in males, and may interfere in egg implantation in females. Again, this would occur only in relatively long-term use of a highly concentrated piperine. Therefore, where fertility is an issue, caution may be advised before use. Black pepper extracts in a lower concentration will increase bioavailabily of substances without the deleterious effects of BioPerine®. As mentioned, there are turmeric products available using black pepper (or ginger) as a synergist ingredient. On Evergreen’s shelves, both Gaia Herbs and MyKind Herbals use a black pepper extract at a much lower concentration. There is a product for everyone, and we hope that with this knowledge customers may find the best option for them.

Got Pain? Get Curcumin!

Inflammation is part of our natural healing process, but when it doesn’t go away it can be physically debilitating and interfere with daily activities. Also, persistent inflammation is believed to be a major contributing factor to many chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and asthma.

TURMERIC or CURCUMIN?

TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) is a tropical plant grown for its rhizome which is used in Indian cuisine, for example, giving curry its rich golden color. However, turmeric’s curcumin content is only 2-5%. CURCUMIN is one of the curcuminoids found in turmeric, but if you are looking for therapeutic action, it is best to use supplemental turmeric which has been standardized for 95% curcuminoids. Unfortunately, curcumin is not easily absorbed into the body, so even at 95% you may not be getting what you need to stop pain now. Fortunately, we have two really great products which have been proven in scientific studies to be very well absorbed and to remain active longer than regular standardized curcumin.

GET MORE FROM YOUR CURCUMIN

THERACURMIN from Natural Factors is created using advanced techniques to reduce the particle size of curcumin (by over 100 times) and increase solubility by mixing it with emulsifiers making it highly bioavailable. Theracurmin’s increased absorption has been proven in several clinical studies.

BCM-95 CURCUMIN

CURAMED and CURAMIN from EuroPharma contain BCM-95, a form of curcumin that is 10 times stronger than plain curcumin products. It, too, has been clinically proven to provide consistent and long-lasting effects. Curamed is BCM-95 alone while Curamin has BCM-95 plus BosPure boswellia (an antiinflammatory herb that has been clinically shown to be up to 10 times more powerful than non-standardized boswellia), DL-phenylalanine and nattokinase.

AMAZING CURCUMIN

Curcumin has been used to treat:

• Alzheimer’s
• Arthritis
• Asthma & Bronchitis
• Cancer
• Cirrhosis
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• IBS
• Psoriasis
• Wounds

WHATS THAT?

DL-PHENYLALANINE is an amino acid that inhibits the breakdown of endorphins, our built-in pain killers. NATTOKINASE is an enzyme that enhances the healing process by promoting blood flow.

From Evergreen’s Archives: September 2014

Nutrition & Inflammation

Botanicals such as turmeric, boswellia and tart cherry are gaining popularity for the beneficial roles they play in controlling inflammation in the body. Research has shown that turmeric and boswellia (frankincense) are as effective as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) in relieving pain. These herbs work in the same pathway the drugs do: blocking the Cox-2 enzyme which reduces levels of inflammatory prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds which cause swelling and inflame tissues). Unlike many of the NSAIDs, however, the herbs mentioned do not also block the beneficial Cox-1 enzyme and thus do not pose the negative side-effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. In addition to the above herbs, there are many other natural inflammation-fighting compounds, such as proteolytic and antioxidant enzymes which work in different yet effective mechanisms.

A Balanced Diet Helps Balance pH

The inflammatory process in the body is inextricably linked with diet and nutrition. One major factor in chronic inflammation, whether joint or muscle pain or a more general systemic condition, is the acid/alkaline balance in the body. An excess of acid forming foods and drinks places a strain on the digestive system, liver, kidneys and bloodstream, in turn exacerbating chronic inflammation. As well, an acidic system creates free radicals which further damage tissues and contribute to inflammation. In addition to lacking vital nutrition, the acidic food culprits such as the “whites”—refined flour and sugar—ultimately can lead to other damaging conditions such as osteoporosis since the body will pull alkalizing calcium and magnesium from bones in order to create an alkaline homeostasis in the bloodstream.

Go for the Green

One easy way to increase alkalinity in the diet is with green foods. The color green signifies a magnesium content due to the chlorophyll, therefore any green vegetable, cereal grass or micro-algae will alkalize the system, helping to reduce acidity and inflammation. In addition to the alkaline properties of these foods, the numerous antioxidants and other phytochemicals present impart their own benefits. Barley grass and wheat grass contain high levels of superoxide dismutase, a powerful antioxidant enzyme which is the body’s own free-radical defender and is highly anti-inflammatory, shown to support synovial fluid in joints. Wheat grass and barley grass products do not contain gluten, as they are the grass portion of the plant prior to formation of the gluten-containing seed. Another easy way to increase alkalinity is to drink mineralized alkaline water. Santevia water pitchers not only alkalize water by adding essential minerals, they also remove chlorine.

Healthy Omegas

A healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids is essential to a healthy inflammation response in the body. The omega-3 fats are anti-inflammatory, essentially helping to lubricate and support joints and tissues, while in general the omega-6 fats are the opposite and should be avoided. The standard American diet contains an unhealthy ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 due to the oils found in processed foods, such as canola and corn. One exception to bad omega-6 fats is Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), which is found in borage, black currant and evening primrose oils and is a powerful anti-inflammatory with a specific affinity for the skin, benefiting psoriasis, eczema and even wrinkles. There are blends of omega fats available which contain oils like flax, hemp or fish for omega-3, borage for omega-6, and even healthy omega-7 from sea buckthorn oil which is beneficial for mucous membranes of the uro-genital tract and is also a boon for healthy smooth skin. Remember, you are what you eat. The first way you can control inflammation is through a healthy diet. Don’t forget appropriate amounts of water, itself a lubricant to tissues.

From Evergreen’s Archive: June 2015