Sail through Stress with Focus, Energy and Red Ginseng

Sail through Stress with Focus, Energy & Red Ginseng

by Terry Lemerond, Founder and President of EuroPharma, Inc. Stress does strange things to the way we think. It ratchets up cortisol levels and affects the regions in the brain (the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) that tend to make us first more reactive, and then makes us feel exhausted. Stopping that chemical change is the first step to feeling more healthy energy and navigate daily challenges and stresses. Although you may not be able to change the circumstances in your life, you can change your reaction to them. Red ginseng can help. Red ginseng alters the way we react to stress by helping calm neurotransmitter activity, and balances cortisol levels in a way that helps us stay focused and alert. It also acts as an antioxidant, which protects brain cells from oxidative damage. This protective ability may also account for the way that red ginseng protects our cognitive processes and provides a feeling of calmness and control. The actions that protect the brain from damage may also reduce symptoms of depression. A Korean clinical study found that red ginseng significantly improved depression symptoms, including those somatic symptoms – the physical “drag” that people suffering from depression so often feel. While red ginseng has been used for centuries, there’s some recent developments that can make it dramatically more effective and much healthier than it has been in decades. That’s because wild harvested ginseng – historically considered one of the world’s most valuable botanicals – is no longer a commercially viable option. In its place, there has been a surge of conventionally grown ginseng in Asia. However, those growing methods are tough on the environment. First, they use up many of nutrients in the soil. Secondly, clearing the land for increased production as a result eventually leads to deforestation. Third, the ginseng roots soak up pesticides and toxins. And fourth, ginseng is frequently processed with harsh chemicals. However, the ginseng that I prefer is hydroponically grown without pesticides and carefully tended in ultra-clean conditions. Its roots are provided with the nutrients they need at exactly the right time and in exactly the right proportions. Just as importantly, the plants are challenged enough to concentrate levels of ginsenosides—especially rare, noble ginsenosides. In fact, this special process helps the ginseng deliver seven times the rare, noble ginsenosides than conventionally grown and processed ginseng supplements. And noble ginsenosides are important for true ginseng benefits. These compounds were a hallmark of wild-harvested ginseng, and may be responsible for much of the herb’s effects in years past. Additionally, they are up to 17 times better absorbed than classic ginsenosides. All of the attributes of the best red ginseng, including clean cultivation, traditional steaming (which give red ginseng its characteristic color and name), and a reliable source of specialized compounds, makes it the equivalent of 20-year old wild ginseng – something we haven’t seen in the United States for decades. And that could make an incredibly positive difference in your life.

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 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.

Safe Natural Skin Care

The 2014 ballot question on GMO labeling generated a lot of discussion about our right to know what is in our food, but we should also be aware of what is in the products we put on our skin, since we literally ingest 70% of it transdermally. We have several very clean lines of skin, hair and body care products from companies that take pride in the purity and safety of their ingredients. Three in particular stand out: MyChelle, DeVita and Eugene-based Keys because all were started by people looking for safe, natural, effective products for their own use and created great products that other people wanted, too. All of these companies make award-winning skin care products and sun screens that get results using only non-toxic, natural ingredients. All are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

MYCHELLE DERMACEUTICALS

Myra Michelle Eby founded MyChelle Dermaceuticals in Colorado in 2000. MYCHELLE uses natural peptides, plant stem cells, antioxidant nutrients and botanical preservatives. They offer something for everyone from dry to oily skin, youth/blemish control to age spot/age defense, sensitive or combination skin types. Their Remarkable Retinal Serum can noticeably reduce age spots and has the strongest non-prescription Vitamin A available. Perfect C Serum (17%) diminishes signs of aging by enhancing collagen. MyChelle products are PETA-certified cruelty-free. For more information, including an extensive ingredient glossary, visit mychelle.com.

DEVITA SKIN CARE

In 1998 Cherylanne DeVita started her company because of chronic cystic acne and the effects of the Arizona sun on her skin. DEVITA’s Sun Damage Repair Serum with copper peptides enhances the skin’s ability to repair damage and age spots while protecting against free radicals. Hyaluronic SeruGel contains 65% hyaluronic acid to minimize wrinkles and promote collagen for more supple skin. DeVita products are made with organic aloe vera as a base and delivery system plus all are GMO-free and certified cruelty-free by PETA and Leaping Bunny. Learn more at devitaskincare.com.

KEYS

KEYS was started by Bob Root and his wife, Wendy Steele, after Wendy was diagnosed with melanoma. Their search for non-toxic skin care led them to create their own products which are manufactured in Eugene. Tortuga Super Emollient Lotion with avocado and carrot oils is perfect for very dry skin while MetaCare with neem and karanja oils is great for burns, rashes and other skin irritations. Keys also makes products for dogs, KODA. Check them out at keys-soap.com.

MORE INFORMATION

The Environmental Working Group has an excellent website for those who want to know what they put on their skin. Check out Skin Deep.

From Evergreen’s Archives: October 2014

Unhyped, But Noteworthy, Superfoods

The term “superfood” brings to mind kale, chia, blueberries, and other fads promoted by popular household-name doctors and your local Whole Foods store. There is no strict definition of a superfood, however. Naturally it makes sense that the food in question be nutrient-dense, presumably containing antioxidants and beneficial phytochemicals. For the record, there are plenty of other vegetables equally or even more nutritious than the overhyped kale! In this newsletter we will look at some of the popular contenders for the name of superfood, as well as some lesser-known ones which we believe deserve the term.

Bee Pollen

Without a doubt this substance is truly a superfood. When ancient Greek myths spoke of “ambrosia of the gods,” this was probably the substance referred to. Not a true bee-manufactured product like honey or royal jelly, bee pollen is simply the flower pollen collected by bees and brought to the hive. Since pollen is the plants’ reproductive essence, it is incredibly potent, concentrated nutrition, containing the primal life-force of the plants from which it is gathered. Pollen contains nearly every vitamin and mineral needed to sustain life, but it is the vast range of phytochemicals and other substances present which contributes to its power. It is one of the richest sources of the bioflavonoid rutin in existence, which strengthens blood vessels to prevent cardiovascular issues and stroke. Very high in lecithin, pollen may help with memory, maintaining healthy cholesterol ratios, and male fertility. Extraordinarily rich in nucleic acids (RNA/DNA), pollen may help with healthy aging and repair of tissues as well as protein synthesis. Amino acids in their free-form state are very high and easily assimilated. Athletes will appreciate the quick and sustained energy received from the high levels of B-complex vitamins. Pollen also contains hormone-like substances, antibiotic substances, and a treasure-trove of enzymes, all of which have a beneficial action on the body.

Barley Grass

Not as flashy as its relative, wheat grass, barley grass flies under the radar and deserves more attention. Everything wheat grass does, barley grass can do and more. High in detoxifying/blood-building/alkalizing chlorophyll, barley grass also contains vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and other minerals. Barley grass is rich in easily-absorbable protein, and is one of the richest sources of powerful antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. This enzyme is highly anti-inflammatory, particularly benefiting osteoarthritis, in addition to neutralizing the strongest free radicals in their assault on body tissues. Barley grass antioxidant enzymes also help protect against UV and other radiation. Other antioxidants present are beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol succinate, a form of vitamin E. Laboratory tests have shown that this special form seems to inhibit several types of cancer. Barley grass has been shown to be anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, and to lower blood sugar levels. James Balch. author of best-selling book Prescription for Nutritional Healing has said, “The variety of vitamins and minerals found in barley juice is unmatched by any other single fruit or vegetable.”

Nutritional Yeast

The original superfood, these yellow flakes have long been a health-food store staple and with good reason. This is an inactive yeast which does not contribute to candida. Saccharomyces cerevisiae contains roughly 50% protein by weight, making it higher than any animal protein source including beef, generally used as the benchmark for protein content in foods. It also contains more B-complex vitamins and minerals by equal weight measure than flesh proteins. This includes B-12 and the “un-lettered” B vitamins such as choline, inositol, and PABA. The mineral content is very high, particularly in chromium and selenium, making it helpful in blood sugar balance. Nutritional yeast is lacking in fat and vitamins A and C. The antioxidant level is high, with superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase present. Along with bee pollen, it is one of the richest sources of nucleic acids for cellular repair. One caveat is that in high amounts it may offset calcium levels in the body as it is very high in the mineral phosphorus. The amounts generally consumed are not sufficient to do this, but if you do consume a lot of nutritional yeast, simply make sure that you have adequate calcium in your diet as well. It is available unfortified, or in fortified form where additional B vitamins are added for extra nutrition. The flakes or powder can be added to hot dishes, sprinkled on popcorn, mixed into sauces and gravies, or even added to smoothies, although the high protein content does not lend itself for inclusion with fruit-based blends.

Red Palm Oil

Red palm oil enjoyed some brief popularity several years ago but deserves greater longevity for it is so rich in antioxidant compounds it puts most other “superfoods” to shame. Like coconut oil, it is a saturated fat, meaning that it is very heat-stable and may be used for high-heat cooking such as frying. Its wealth of antioxidants also protect it from deterioration due to heat. Do not let the fact that it is a saturated fat alarm you; it contains no cholesterol and is in fact extremely cardio-protective, owing to the highest levels of antioxidant tocotrienols in any edible oil. Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family but have been shown to be 40-60 times more potent than tocopherol (standard vitamin E) as an antioxidant, particularly benefiting cardiovascular health. Clinical trials with subjects with high blood cholesterol receiving a palm oil-derived tocotrienol supplement demonstrated significant reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels within four month of supplementation. Continuous significant reduction was seen on the fifth and sixth month. The oil’s rich red hue derives from the wealth of carotenoids present, including lycopene, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and gamma-carotene. Palm oil contains the highest alpha-carotene level among all the plant sources. Research has shown consumption of red palm oil significantly enhanced vitamin A levels in humans, and it is beneficial in preventing vitamin A deficiency. Other nutrients present are phytosterols, coenzyme Q10, vitamin K, and squalene. Consuming red palm oil whether in cooking or mixed into prepared food will confer glowing, supple, youthful skin as well thanks to the antioxidant carotenoids and tocotrienols. Both compounds selectively accumulate in the skin and protect it from oxidative stress as well as UV rays, ultimately having anti-aging effects. When buying red palm oil, be sure to ascertain that the product is sustainable and is orangutan-safe. Evergreen Nutrition sells Nutiva’s red palm oil, which is fair-trade, from small family farms with no harming of orangutan habitat.  

Adaptogens for stress and sleep

One of the most common complaints Evergreen staff members hear from customers is of stress, and particularly insomnia due to stress. Luckily for customers who suffer from these issues, the two conditions are often intertwined and there are a host of substances which offer relief from both. We will explore some of the lesser-known herbs and supplements which fit into both of these categories.

Adaptogens: What Are They?

The term adaptogen was coined to describe a substance (plant) which helps the body resist stressors. These can include physical, emotional and environmental sources. Ancient healing traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine have featured these botanical compounds for millenia, where they have been revered cornerstones of the pharmacopeia. Modern science has shown that the mechanism by which most of these plants work is by normalizing or lowering levels of the adrenal hormone cortisol. The adrenal glands secrete this hormone in response to stress, and high levels of this cortisol, particularly at night, will prevent restful sleep. Chronic and even occasional stress will throw off the normal balance of this adrenal hormone and create a cascade of issues including insomnia. This is where our adaptogen friends can help.

Ashwagandha

This Ayurvedic herb has been known in India for thousands of years. Ashwagandha provides gentle, effective strength and support to a multitude of bodily systems. A true “tonic” herb, meaning it may be taken daily to nourish and support, it is anti-inflammatory, immune modulating, energizing, libido boosting, calming and more. Yes, that’s right! Energizing and calming. It accomplishes this by its extraordinary support of the adrenal glands. If a person is worn out and tired it will give a non-stimulating energy to gently boost the body and, conversely, if one is “stressed-out” and agitated, or over-caffeinated, it will provide a soothing, calming effect and allow one to sleep. It is a superb herb for insomnia, whether it is taken earlier in the day or before bed. (See previous article on ashwagandha.) The hands-down favorite ashwagandha product we carry is from Himalaya, a 90-year old company based in India. Their product is organic and a blend of several types of extracts with raw herb powder. No excipients are used to form the tablet; just the herb powder itself. In our experience this is one of the most effective ashwagandha products available, and the one tablet serving size will accomplish what other multi-pill products will not. In addition to the Himalaya product, Evergreen carries many other single ashwagandha products as well as formulas featuring the herb. Adrenal Health from Gaia Herbs and Stress Decompress from Host Defense are two wonderful stress-busting formulas which may also enhance sleep. The latter formula features ashwagandha along with our next adaptogen friend.

Reishi

This medicinal mushroom, in our country known mainly for its immune-boosting properties, is famous in Asia as a “shen” tonic. Shen tonics “calm the spirit.” Chinese herbal medicine places high regard on reishi for helping to relieve stress and insomnia both. It has been described as having the ability to “ease feelings of constriction/tightness in the chest.” Reishi has been clinically shown to promote sleep and calm the nervous system. It is being studied also for decreasing anxiety and depression. Two of its nicknames, “Supreme Protector” and “Happy Mushroom” allude to the power of this beautiful varnished conk. Because reishi can improve blood sugar levels and lower high blood pressure there are possible drug interactions with diabetic and/or antihypertensive medications. Evergreen carries this mushroom in liquid extract and capsule forms. It is featured in many formulas as well.

Jujube

This Chinese herb is little-known here, but deserves wider appreciation. Of particular use where sleep is disturbed by stress or an over-active mind, jujube date, also known as ziziphus, is generally used in tandem with other herbs, to great effectiveness. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, formulas featuring this herb specifically for sleep date back to 220 A.D. Sedaplex from Integrative Therapeutics combines this herb with other classic sedatives such as valerian and hops to help promote restful sleep. Gaia Herbs offers their SleepThru product with jujube alongside organic ashwagandha and also magnolia (shown to lower cortisol).

Rhodiola & Holy Basil

These two classic adaptogens go hand in hand. They normalize cortisol levels, promote resistance to stress and impart calm when needed. One difference may be that rhodiola can be stimulating to some people, so taking it late in the day is not advised. However, when taken earlier on, it can help one to obtain a better night’s sleep. Holy basil is good at “turning off” excess mental chatter impeding a good sleep. Tony, a 26-year-veteran of Evergreen, says holy basil is his favorite product for occasional insomnia. Both herbs are anti-inflammatory and immune system supportive, and rhodiola in particular is beneficial for endurance and cardiovascular support. Both herbs come singly or in adrenal formulas. Stress Manager from Herb Pharm is an inspired blend of these two herbs alongside our friend reishi. Anxiety Soother from the same company features different herbs such as kava and albizzia, but both blends are highly effective stress-relievers and also may be used at night for improved, uninterrupted sleep. There is help from the plant kingdom (and Evergreen Nutrition) for today’s stressful lifestyle.

New Clean Sports Nutrition Lines

Happy Fall! Evergreen Nutrition is pleased to launch a section devoted to Sports Nutrition. In addition to protein and amino acid products we have carried previously, we are featuring several product lines new to us. These Sports Nutrition products are effective without artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. Best of all we are offering these lines at everyday low prices of 15% and 25% off SRP. NATURAL SPORT offers pre-workout energizers, electrolyte chewables, glutamine, creatine and Branch Chain Amino Acid (BCAA) products. Of particular interest to some may be growth-hormone and testosterone boosters for strength and growth, such as ZMA, a trademarked blend of minerals and vitamin B-6 which has been clinically proven to raise testosterone levels as well as improve sleep for growth-hormone release. NITROCARN is an advanced carnitine product which delivers energy to the muscles and heart for improved exercise and reduced lactic acid build-up. We are excited to carry the entire line of VEGA SPORT, formulated by Ironman triathlete Brendan Brazier. These products are all plant-based, whole-food sports nutrition which can assist in performance and recovery by maintaining alkalinity and reducing inflammation while providing high-quality, easily-assimilable aminos for tissue repair. Included are pre-workout energizers, endurance gels and electrolyte powders, and products such as RECOVERY ACCELERATOR, which replenishes protein and reduces acidity and inflammation with tried and true botanicals such as turmeric and devil’s claw. PERFORMANCE PROTEIN is based on pea protein, which is extremely high in muscle-sparing BCAAs. Added are 5 grams of extra glutamine and BCAA respectively per serving, making this a powerhouse of strength, repair and value. A welcome addition to the myriad protein and energy bars out there are Vega Sports’ whole-food protein bars and Energizer Workout bars, featuring Savi Seed (Sacha inchi), a wonderful source of protein and anti-inflammatory omega fatty acids. Most of these products are available in several flavors and sizes and will help you on your way to high-nutrition fitness whether you are bound for a marathon, the gym, or an autumn hike or bike ride.

From Evergreen’s Archive: October 2011

COMB: Micronutrients for Bone Health

It has been known for some time now that it takes more than calcium to aid bone health. Gone are the days when it was thought that taking 1,000 mg of calcium and drinking six glasses of milk daily was all one needed to ward off osteoporosis. In fact, this regimen is now considered to be a recipe for bone and heart disaster. Without nutritional co-factors, excess calcium is deposited in the arteries rather than bones, causing calcification (hardening) of arteries and attendant cardiovascular risks. It is known that nutrient biochemicals are inherently related to proper physiological processes in the human body. Thus, a deficiency or multiple nutrient deficiencies may result in improper functioning of any number of bodily processes. Additionally, combinations of nutrients are known to be required for normal biochemical function. The mineral magnesium and vitamin D are both required for calcium deposition, for instance. The known functions of many nutrients are irrefutable science, and accepted as credible. Folic acid supplementation for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects is just one example.

COMB: Combination of Micronutrients for Bone

With regard to bone health, there is a wealth of medical and scientific literature on certain nutrients’ individual relationship to bone mineral density (BMD). Reduced BMD is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis and related fragility fractures. With an aging baby boomer population this will be of concern. Many people concerned about bone loss may seek alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs and hormone therapy for bone health for various reasons ranging from fear of adverse side effects to non-improvement of BMD with drugs.

The Right Stuff

A new study from Canada shows compelling evidence for certain micronutrient combinations for bone health. Dubbed the COMB study, for Combination of Micronutrients for Bone, it followed 77 people who wanted natural treatment for their bone density problems. Some of the participants had failed bisphosphonate (osteoporosis drugs such as Fosamax) therapy. They were put on a daily protocol of vitamin D3 2,000 IU, vitamin K2 100 mcg, magnesium 25 mg, strontium citrate 680 mg, and DHA (fish oil) 250 mg. In addition, dietary sources of calcium and daily impact exercising were encouraged. After one year of treatment, there was a significant improvement in bone density in the femoral neck, total spine, and lowest hip and spine scores. There was a 4% increase in the femoral neck and an 8% increase in the lowest spine site. Participants who had not improved with bisphosphonates showed a 3-8% improvement in BMD using this combination of micronutrients, with no side effects. The authors of the study concluded that combined micronutrient therapy may be a promising alternative to pharmaceutical drugs in order to prevent bone compromise as well as to maintain or improve BMD.

Taking Action

The initial hypothesis/rationale for this study was that perhaps bone compromise might be related to nutritional insufficiency in some patients, and that remediation of nutritional biochemistry might have been of assistance in restoring bone health. Evergreen Nutrition carries several bone formulas containing this protocol’s nutrient combination (with varying dosages) with the exception of the DHA, which can be purchased separately. New Chapter’s Bone Strength Take Care and Nature’s Way Alive Calcium Bone Formula both contain these nutrients, with the minerals coming from plant sources for optimal absorption in the body. For people interested in preserving or increasing their bone mineral density, nutritional supplements may offer unparalleled benefits.

Probiotics: It’s a Team Effort – Part 3

Meet the Bifidobacterium Team

Lactos and Bifidos are a bit like football’s offensive and defensive lines and positions — different, but united in accomplishing the same goal. In Part 2 of this series we were introduced to the Lactobacillus side of our microbiome, “Team Symbion.” Now let’s meet the Bifidobacteria lineup. (See Part 1.) Bifidobacteria, in general, are found in the digestive tract, particularly the large intestine, the vagina and the mouth. They make up about 90% of our total microbiome. Bifidos support immunity, metabolism and even mood. They are helpful for such diverse conditions as diarrhea, ulcerative colitis and pouchitis (inflammation of a surgically-created rectum in colectomy patients); colds, flu and yeast infections; hepatitis, mumps and Lyme disease and they can help repopulate the gut after antibiotic use. Like the Lactos, the Bifidos aid digestion, enhance nutrient absorption and help keep detrimental microbes in check. By producing lactic acid, they make their home (our bodies) inhospitable to harmful pathogens.

The Starting Lineup

Bifidobacterium bifidum resides mainly in the colon and vagina. This hard-fighting warrior is effective against a wide range of detrimental organisms including rotavirus, E. coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, H. pylori, Salmonella, C. difficile, Staphylococcus aureus and more. It is useful for diarrhea, flatulence and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms as well as allergic conditions and can reduce the risk of eczema in infants whose mothers use it while pregnant. In addition, B. bifidum helps to lower markers for inflammation and increases lymphocyte production. Since the Bifido population declines as we age (increasing risk of infection) older folks, in particular, may want to supplement B. bifidum. Bifidobacterium longum inhabits the digestive tract where it can help with lactose intolerance, diarrhea associated with antibiotic use, constipation, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It also helps to lower LDL cholesterol and inhibits ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme), boosts immunity by increasing IgA antibody production and can minimize cold and flu symptoms. Our buddy B. longum has an inhibitory effect on detrimental species of Streptococcus, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas, as well as Candida albicans, Clostridium perfringens, E. coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, C. difficile and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, it can protect us from the dangers of toxins produced by Salmonella typhimurium and heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) as well as mutagenic substances in browned/charred food. A smart addition to your tailgate barbeque! In spite of its name, Bifidobacterium infantis can be found in the intestines of both children and adults. It is useful for indigestion and reflux. B. infantis is effective against E. coli and C. albicans, but its forte is the relief of IBS symptoms, namely cramping, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and bowel urgency. Research on subjects with ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and chronic fatigue syndrome has shown that B. infantis “reduce[s] systemic pro-inflammatory biomarkers in both gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal conditions” and “that the immunomodulatory effects of the microbiota in humans are not limited to the mucosal immune system but extend to the systemic immune system.”

The Second String

• Bifidobacteria lactis aids immunity by enhancing antibody production and removal of cellular debris. It is useful against C. albicans and H. pylori and may be helpful for atopic eczema.
• Bifidobacterium breve is found in the colon and vagina where it inhibits E. coli and C. albicans. It is also effective for allergies, antibiotic-related diarrhea and IBS.

We hope you have enjoyed meeting your symbiotic teammates. If you would like to get up close and personal with these remarkable microbes, please stop by the store and we will be happy to help you choose a probiotic that’s right for you.

SilverSol Antibacterial Silver

Safe • Effective • Natural

Silver isn’t just a beautiful metal, it has been used as a natural antibacterial agent for centuries. It is a very effective colloid (suspended in water) and it has the highest electrical conductivity of any metal. In fact, it is the benchmark by which other metals are judged on that scale. SilverSol is simply 10 parts per million (ppm) of elemental silver and deionized water, so it retains the properties of colloidal silver.

How Does It Work?

Colloidal (ionic) silver has positive silver ions that can steal electrons from the cell membrane of bacteria causing the membrane to rupture. When enough electrons are stripped from the cell membrane the bacteria can’t function. But colloidal silver operates at a one-to-one electron exchange rate before being neutralized, “one and done,” as they say. At that rate, for antibacterial effectiveness a high concentration of silver or multiple applications are needed. SilverSol’s unique, patented nano-silver (5-7 nm) silver oxide coating, A ₄O₄, can steal thousands of electrons per particle for continuous (catalytic) action. In addition, it’s “supercharged” with the same frequency at which germicidal ultraviolet resonates (890-910 terahertz); a frequency that is harmless to human tissue but highly damaging to bacteria, yeasts and fungi. Plus, it doesn’t require direct physical contact to be effective.

More Effective than Other Silvers

By combining the patented silver oxide coating with resident ultraviolet frequency, SilverSol’s effectiveness is increased. At just 10 ppm SilverSol is three to ten times more effective than traditional colloidal/ionic silvers or silver hydrosols, even those with up to 3,000 ppm. Although SilverSol has potent natural antibacterial properties, it doesn’t harm probiotics, our beneficial bacteria. Because it isn’t metabolized in our bodies and, unlike ionic silver, it is excreted with no residual build up, it can be safely used every day. SilverSol’s safety and effectiveness are backed by 420 independent, third-party studies including human ingestion studies.

Nano-Silver Boosts Antibiotic Action

A study published by Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), a publisher of open-access scientific journals, states that AgNP, or silver nano particles, “are suitable candidates for use in combinations with traditional antibiotics in order to improve their antibacterial action”  and that “strong synergistic effects were shown for all tested antibiotics combined with AgNPs at very low concentrations of both antibiotics and AgNPs. … Moreover, a very low amount of silver is needed for effective antibacterial action of the antibiotics, which represents an important finding for potential medical applications due to the negligible cytotoxic effect of AgNPs towards human cells at these concentration levels.”

Silver for Many Uses

Evergreen carries natural, safe and effective American Biotech Labs nano-silver products for a variety of uses. The liquid/spray is for oral or topical use, two different gels (20 ppm and 24 ppm) are for topical use only, plus two throat lozenges (Vitamin C and Manuka Honey) and a xylitol-based, non-abrasive silver tooth gel that promotes oral health without fluoride, parabens or SLS.        

Tips for Stressful Times and Meal Replacements

Good News!

Good news! We have had many customer requests for a truly nutritious and delicious meal replacement for cancer patients, people with celiac and other malabsorption conditions or simply for those who desire to gain weight in a healthy way. We are very pleased to announce that Evergreen Nutrition is now selling ORGAIN, the first ready-to-drink organic meal replacement. Developed by Dr. Andrew Abraham, a physician and cancer survivor, ORGAIN is a nutritionally balanced blend of organic ingredients including 16 grams of protein from whey and brown rice, omega-3 fatty acids and only 13 grams of sugar (compared to over 20 grams in other brands). Each serving contains 24 vitamins and minerals, complex carbohydrates and the antioxidant equivalent of 10 servings of fruits and veggies. And it tastes really good!

More Good News

This is a stressful time for many of us: the economy, the swine flu scare, the recent freezing weather and the demands of the winter holidays all add up and take their toll on us physically, mentally and emotionally. When we are under constant stress our adrenal glands are working overtime producing cortisol, the “fight or flight” hormone. If we are constantly stressed we don’t relax enough to allow cortisol levels to return to normal. Long-term excessive cortisol can deplete vitamin C and B-complex nutrients and lead to (among other things) impaired cognitive and immune function, blood sugar imbalance, weight gain and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. We would like to offer you some helpful suggestions. We have a pair of great products from Interplexus that can help nourish and support you and your adrenals and counteract excess cortisol. SERIPHOS is phosphorylated serine combined with ethanolamine for better absorption. It can help to protect the hypothalamus and pituitary glands from excess cortisol and also help with senile dementia and declining cognitive function. The companion product to Seriphos is ADAPT which combines B vitamins, minerals and herbs to help with stress-induced fatigue/exhaustion and weight gain. In addition, it contributes to the synthesis and utilization of pregnenolone and DHEA (adrenal hormones) and, because prolonged stress adversely affects connective tissue (collagen), it can help prevent the slow healing and rapid aging of skin often seen in stressed-out individuals. Dr. Tori Hudson, of Oregon’s own Vitanica, has created an excellent adrenal support formula called ADRENAL ASSIST. This comprehensive formula contains crucial B-complex vitamins and vitamin C, minerals and a plenitude of adaptogenic herbs. Adaptogens help our bodies to adapt to and recover from stress and Adrenal Assist includes eight adaptogenic herbs: Rhodiola, Astragalus, Maca, Ashwagandha, Holy Basil, Panax Ginseng, Schizandra and Eleutherococcus. This powerhouse combination supplies nutrients and antioxidants; helps restore libido; supports the heart, liver and thyroid as well as the respiratory, immune and reproductive systems; reduces pain and inflammation; normalizes blood sugar; and revitalizes us physically, mentally and emotionally. Now that’s good news, but here’s the “more good news” part.

Something Interesting

Here is something very interesting that we think you’ll enjoy. A study at UCLA (Psychology Review, July 2000) shows that women’s response to stress is very different from men’s. Gale Berkowitz writes that two female scientists realized that when under stress they tended to hang out together whereas men tended to go off alone. Further study revealed that this female bonding caused the release of oxytocin, the labor- and lactation-inducing hormone, which mitigates the “fight or flight” stress response and has a calming effect called “tend and befriend.” What a delightful response to life’s pressures! We encourage you to read the full report at UCLA Study On Friendship Among Women. It’s totally worth reading and sharing. We also encourage you to spend time with people you love (men, you can do this, too) and relax and feel happy. Can you think of a better way to celebrate the holidays and begin the new year? From all of us at Evergreen Nutrition, we wish all of you good health and shared joy this holiday season!

From Evergreen’s Archives: December 2009

Take The Challenge & Improve Digestion

If indigestion, heartburn or gas are presenting you with challenges, then we have got a challenge for them. It’s called Digest Gold from Enzymedica. With it, you can improve your digestion in just 14 days.

Why Do We Need Enzymes?

We all need digestive enzymes to break down our food into bits small enough to be assimilated into the body. As we age, we not only produce fewer enzymes but their activity is diminished as well. Compounding that problem is the fact that cooking foods above 118°F destroys the enzymes naturally present in our foods. Environmental toxins, drugs, alcohol, coffee and tobacco smoke also deplete our body’s enzymes. Decreased enzyme activity causes poor nutrition and/or malabsorption and can accelerate aging, causing fatigue, weight gain, skin problems and more serious degenerative diseases. In addition, foods become toxic as undigested proteins putrefy, fats go rancid and carbohydrates ferment in our guts causing digestive woes and upsetting the natural balance of our digestive ecosystem.

The Digest Gold Challenge

To take The Challenge, simply take one or more high-potency Digest Gold capsules with each meal for two weeks, then see if you notice less digestive distress, improved regularity and increased energy as the food you eat is being assimilated more effectively. In the unlikely event that you do not notice improvement, Evergreen Nutrition will refund your money (within 30 days of purchase with sales receipt). All you have to lose is indigestion, heartburn, gas and bloating. All you have to gain is improved digestion which leads to improved health in general.

Exceptional Quality

The people at Enzymedica are “The Enzyme Experts.” Their Thera-blend enzymes are formulated to work in the various pH levels throughout the entire digestive tract making them three times stronger and six times faster than competing products. Their vegetarian capsules contain no fillers or common allergens and their small size makes them easy to swallow. Their enzymes are 100% vegan and Digest Gold is certified Kosher. It’s no wonder that Digest Gold is America’s top selling enzyme formula.So if you feel like your digestion could use some help, give The Digest Gold Challenge a try. We are confident that you will notice improvement in just two weeks.

An Alternative to Antacids, Too

A common cause of heartburn is insufficient stomach acid, not too much. By taking antacids you are disrupting the natural pH of the stomach which then adversely affects the rest of the digestive process. Stomach acid (hydrochloric acid or HCl) sterilizes our food and works with proteolytic enzymes to break down proteins. By buffering HCl you also interfere with proper absorption of B vitamins, especially B-12, and minerals as well as inhibiting healthy gut flora. Digestive enzymes, like Digest Gold, are a more healthy alternative for dealing with heartburn.

From Evergreen’s Archives: April 2014