Chlorophyll – It’s Easy Being Green

As you will recall from science class, chlorophyll is the green pigment in green plants which is a vital part of photosynthesis, the process whereby plants convert sunlight, gases and water into energy/food for the plant. This magical green pigment is much more than just “blood” for the plants, however. Chlorophyll possesses a host of therapeutic applications for human health as well.

Similar to Hemoglobin

The chlorophyll molecule very closely resembles hemin, the red pigment in blood which when combined with protein forms hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is present in red blood cells and transports oxygen to tissues, essentially giving energy. The major difference between the two is that chlorophyll contains magnesium at its center while hemin (hemoglobin) contains iron. Owing to their close molecular structure, early 20th century scientists theorized that chlorophyll is the natural blood-building element for all plant-eaters and humans, and has the same fast blood-building effect as iron in animals made experimentally anemic.

Oxygenating, Antiseptic, Deodorizing & More

While eating lots of green vegetables is certainly healthy, the chlorophyll itself in them is bound to a fatty sheath which impairs intestinal absorption in animals and humans. For this reason, chlorophyll in supplement form has been altered to make it water soluble. This involves removing the central magnesium atom and replacing it with copper and sodium to form copper chlorophyllin. Much of the power of this pigment is due to its ability to oxygenate. It improves the absorption of iron, further increasing oxygen-carrying properties. It may be said that chlorophyll truly “builds blood” in that it beneficially influences anemia, acting much like hemoglobin as we have discussed earlier. These tissue-oxygenating benefits extend to a myriad of external applications as well. Chlorophyll promotes rapid healing of skin lesions and ulcers. It has been shown to be bacteriostatic, rendering bacteria unable to multiply. It is a natural deodorizer reducing foul-smelling wounds, and healing with increased granulation of tissues. These properties made it a valuble antiseptic substance in World War II. Dentists have found it to be beneficial for pyorrhea and trenchmouth. Dermatologists have used it with great success in chronic ulcers and impetigo. One of the most well-known applications of chlorophyll is as an internal deodorizer. It may be used to neutralize odors from colostomy, ileostomy or incontinence. It is a mild bowel detoxifier and laxative, stimulating peristalsis, helpful for irritable bowel and cramping pains. Both fat-soluble and water-soluble forms of chlorophyll have been shown to be antioxidant and antimutagenic, inhibiting the effect of potent carcinogenic chemicals such as heterocyclic aromatic amines. This effect may help in prevention of colon cancer. The magnesium in fat-soluble chlorophyll benefits the heart, improving blood pressure and acting as an anti-platelet aggregation substance (reducing the stickiness of blood cells). Another of the main attributes of chlorophyll is that it is highly alkalizing to the system, thereby improving inflammation and health in general.

Available in Several Forms

If drinking wheatgrass juice or the like is unpalatable, liquid chlorophyll will do the job nicely and is very convenient to add to water or smoothies. Liquids are generally available unflavored or mint flavored as an option, and softgels are available as well. Add some green to your life today, and increase your energy and health. It turns out that Kermit the frog was wrong: It is easy being green!

Medicinal Mushrooms: Cordyceps & Maitake

When you think of mushrooms, you may think of savory culinary dishes or perhaps funky looking growths in the forest. Perhaps your mind travels toward magic mushrooms and ancient sacred rituals or Alice in Wonderland and fairy rings. But chances are that when you mull over mushrooms you don’t think of researchers in white coats and heaps of scientific data. But mushrooms have been the subjects of numerous scientific studies all over the world for decades.

Myriad Benefits of Mycomedicinals

Research has shown that Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) and Maitake (Grifola frondosa) are two very potent medicinal mushrooms. They have been studied extensively and found to have impressive health benefits. For example, both are antibacterial and antiviral. Both are immune enhancers and are especially effective for lung/respiratory ailments. Both can help regulate blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides. These fantastic fungi are also effective treatment for CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) and several kinds of tumors.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps, also known as caterpillar fungus, inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (a contributing factor in atherosclerosis) and raises beneficial HDL. It is useful for treating liver disorders like cirrhosis and hepatitis B. It is also a central nervous system stimulant, that may help counter stress and depression as well as increase energy production in the mitochondria thereby increasing stamina and athletic performance. In traditional Chinese medicine cordyceps works on the lung and kidney channels and is a tonic to them. It is supportive and protective to the kidneys and can be effective in nephritis and chronic renal failure. This fabulous fungus is a bronchodilator and may be helpful for treating asthma, bronchitis and chronic cough. Furthermore, cordyceps reinforces chi (life energy) and helps to regulate and support the gonads enhancing both male and female fertility and increasing libido. Cordyceps’ immune-enhancing benefits include treating lupus erythematosus and colon cancer. It promotes apoptosis (cell death) in leukemia, mouth and testicular cancers while reducing damage to bone marrow and intestines caused by radiation therapy.

Maitake

Maitake is another mushroom that offers incredible immune support. Not only is it helpful against several kinds of cancer (liver, lung, prostate) but it may help alleviate AIDS-related health problems, especially Kaposi’s Sarcoma, and prevent the HIV virus from damaging Helper T-Cells. Maitake is also effective for the treatment of uterine fibroids and has preventive action against hepatitis.

And More

Evergreen Nutrition offers a variety of medicinal mushrooms including several organically grown in Washington by Fungi Perfecti/Host Defense. We also have other mushrooms like reishi and chaga available individually, as well as some formulas.

From Evergreen’s Archives: August 2010

Blood Sugar Balancing

The issues of blood sugar imbalance range from relatively mild symptoms such as irritability and fatigue due to alternate peaks and dips in glucose (blood sugar), to more serious conditions like obesity, cardiovascular distress, and diabetes. The list of deleterious effects that diabetes itself can have on the body is sobering: vision problems, erectile dysfunction, and nerve damage which, if left untreated, can increase risk of amputation. Lifestyle changes (diet) can be extraordinarily beneficial in improving blood sugar imbalance. Certainly simple carbohydrates, which are immediately converted to sugar, should be kept to a minimum as the body responds to chronically high levels of glucose by releasing greater amounts of the hormone insulin. These high insulin levels damage the body.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

There are many nutrients which can aid in bringing blood sugar into balance and improving glucose utilization. The mineral Chromium may regulate the body’s blood sugar levels, reducing high levels in people with high blood sugar and increasing blood sugar in people with low blood sugar levels. One of the most critical nutrients for blood sugar and diabetes support is the coenzyme Alpha Lipoic Acid. This powerful antioxidant has multiple applications here. Primarily, it increases cellular uptake as well as oxidation (burning) of glucose. Studies have shown that it also stimulates insulin activity and reduces insulin resistance in diabetics. In addition to regulating blood sugar, it is also able to reduce and improve the neuropathies (nerve damage) which result from diabetic complications. By virtue of its ability to reduce glycation, the undesirable bonding of sugars to proteins, which is increased in diabetes, it also protects eye tissues from the retinopathy which may result.

Jarrow’s Alpha Lipoic Sustain

Another nutrient which may help to regulate blood sugar levels is the B-family vitamin Biotin. One alpha lipoic acid product from Jarrow Formulas, Alpha Lipoic Sustain, combines this nutrient with 300 mg of alpha lipoic acid in a dual-action tablet providing a combination of both quick and sustained releases to maximize and sustain blood sugar levels. This product is gluten-free and vegan and in August is on sale at Evergreen as part of Jarrow’s Line Drive. Additionally, it will remain on sale after August through our Every Day Low Pricing.

Balancing Botanicals

There is a host of herbs with the ability to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Cinnamon, Gymnema, Green Coffee Bean, Mulberry, Bitter Melon, Nopal and others are becoming popular as people with blood sugar issues seek to manage their conditions naturally. There are formulas available which combine herbs with nutrients like alpha lipoic acid for total support. Of course, there are also multivitamins specifically for diabetics as well, and all of these products can be found at Evergreen in our Blood Sugar section.

Take a Breather: Help for Smoke Inhalation

“A house full, a hole full! And you cannot gather a bowl-full!”* In spite of Squirrel Nutkin’s riddle,* the bowl of the Willamette Valley has been full of smoke nearly all summer. With the most unhealthy air quality in 25 years, even people who don’t normally have respiratory problems are feeling the effects. Smoke is a complex blend of gases and fine particles produced by burning organic (as in carbon-containing) material. Even though it is “natural,” wood smoke contains tiny particles and gases that can have serious health effects ranging from runny, scratchy eyes; runny nose; sore, scratchy throat; inflamed sinuses and headaches to more serious, life-threatening effects. It is especially dangerous for the very young, the very old and for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. When inhaled, smoke can cause the respiratory system to become irritated, swollen and even blocked. Bronchitis, asthma, damage to mucous membranes and other respiratory disorders may result from toxic exposure to smoke. Anyone having difficulty breathing should seek medical help right away. Regular dust masks won’t protect you from smoke inhalation. They only catch large particles, like sawdust, and won’t keep damaging nano-sized particles out of your lungs. Using an N96 mask or a wet cloth over your nose and mouth would be better.

Herbs Etc. Lung Tonic

Lung Tonic is a terrific formula featuring many of the superstar herbs for respiratory health. It supports healthy lung function in general and provides long-term respiratory support for chronic and prolonged lung challenges. This herbal blend strengthens and opens up the respiratory passages, maximizes lung capacity and improves oxygen absorption. Use with ChlorOxygen for enhanced results. Lung Tonic contains mullein leaf, horehound, elecampane root, grindelia flower, echinacea angustifolia root, pleurisy root, passionflower, osha, lobelia and yerba santa.

N-Acetyl-Cysteine

N-acetyl cysteine, (NAC for short), is a precursor to glutathione, the body’s premier endogenous antioxidant molecule. By virtue of glutathione’s detoxification of acetaldehyde and other toxins found in smoke, NAC has great potential benefit to smoke inhalers. NAC is a famously powerful mucolytic, breaking down and eliminating accumulated mucus from the lungs. In addition to facilitating breathing, toxins and germs threatening the lungs are also removed. People with various lung disorders such as bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema may derive great benefit here. For more information on NAC, see Get the NAC: N-Acetyl-Cysteine.

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies can be helpful, too. They do not interact with prescription drugs and can be given to children and pets. Similasan’s Pink Eye Relief can soothe smoky eyes. Here are some other suggestions for remedies that may be helpful for a variety of symptoms of smoke inhalation: Arsenicum: For smoke exposure with anxiety.

• Eyes burn and tear.
• Nose dry, burning and dripping, but feels stuffed up.
• Dry cough, worse at night and when lying on back.
• Scanty expectoration.
• Burning pains; burning sensation in chest.
• Air passages feel constricted.
• Wheezing; asthma, worse between midnight and 2 a.m.
• Thirsty.
• Restlessness and anxiety about the future.

Bryonia: For conditions made worse by motion; dryness of mucous membranes.

• Dry lips, mouth and mucous membranes with excessive thirst.
• Soreness/hoarseness in throat.
• Dry, hard, irritating and/or painful cough; worse with movement, warmth or at night.
• Lumpy, rusty-colored sputum. If coughing up blood, seek medical help immediately.
• Stitching, tearing pain.
• Headache worse from motion and better from applying pressure.
• Irritable and wanting to lie down, be quiet and left alone.

Carbo Vegetabilis: For shortness of breath and feeling oxygen deprived.

• Hoarseness, worse in the evening.
• Cough with itching in larynx and/or burning in chest.
• Sore, raw chest.
• Spasmodic cough.
• Severe acute attacks of wheezing with significant belching, gas and bloating.
• May be a bluish cast to the face and/or body.
• Loss of vitality and may feel faint.
• Wanting to be fanned hard or needing fresh air.

Euphrasia: For simple smoke exposure with irritation to eyes and nose.

• Eyes are irritated, they tear and burn with profuse, acrid tearing.
• Eyes sensitive to light; tear when coughing.
• Eye lids burn, are red, swollen and/or sensitive.
• Nose runs but doesn’t burn.
• Spasmodic, dry cough with asthma.
• Slight cough with mucus during the day.
• Breathing oppressed.
• Better in the open air.

Ignatia: For those who are depressed, moody, nervous or apprehensive; when the emotional element is prominent.

• Spasmodic, tickling in throat; windpipe may feel painful.
• Dry, spasmodic cough, may be worse in the evening.
• The more you cough, the more you need to cough.
• Scant expectoration.
• Pressure or tightness in chest, sense of lump in throat.
• Especially indicated when disappointment, loss or upset accompanies smoke inhalation.

Kali bichromicum: For serious smoke exposure with irritated sinuses and/or lungs. NOTE: For serious smoke exposure seek medical help right away.

• Sore, raw larynx; hoarseness worse in the evening.
• Constant need to clear the throat.
• Tickling sensation in larynx and/or chest.
• Nose is blocked and feels dry; may have loss of the sense of smell.
• Nasal discharge is dry or sticky/stringy.
• Sinus pressure at root of nose and cheeks; sinuses are sore, raw, irritated and painful.
• Hacking, painful cough with sticky, stringy, yellowish-green expectoration.
• Hard to expell mucus and it is scanty, sticky or stringy.
• Dry, barking cough; chest is sore.
• Wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Splinter-like pains.

Silica: For helping the body to expel inhaled particles.

• Nose dry and stuffy, no sense of smell or taste.
• Sinuses painful and stuffed up.
• Cough and sore throat with expectoration of small “granules.”
• Dry, irritating cough from inhaled particles, with thick, lumpy, yellow mucus.
• Violent cough when lying down.
• Sensation of something (dust or a hair) stuck in the back of the throat.

*From The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter NASA Earth Observatory image showing wildfires in September 2009 from https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/NaturalHazards/…

Allergy Help

Histamine. The very word can make allergy sufferers run for cover. But histamine is not all bad. It’s necessary for cell division, healthy digestion and achieving orgasm. However, while in the throes of an allergic reaction it’s antihistamines that will put a smile on your face.

QUERCETIN: A NATURAL ANTIHISTAMINE

QUERCETIN is a bioflavonoid found in a variety of foods. It helps to stabilize cell membranes making mast cells less reactive to allergy-causing antigens and decreases the release of histamine. In addition, it helps to alleviate asthma, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Quercetin has other immune benefits, too, since it is effective against detrimental fungi and viruses.

STINGING NETTLES CAN HELP,TOO

Research has shown that freeze-dried NETTLES (Urtica dioica) can alleviate troublesome allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, ears and throat, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. We have several great products from two companies in Sandy, Oregon. Eclectic Institute has a very popular nettles/quercetin blend as well as straight up freeze-dried nettles. Oregons Wild Harvest has freeze-dried nettles and nettles/quercetin, too, as well as ALLER-AID, a blend of organic freeze-dried nettles, quercetin, n-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and vitamin C. NAC breaks up mucous and supports the liver, which is working harder during an allergic response. Vitamin C works synergistically with quercetin and has some antihistamine properties itself.

NORTHWEST MIX

Evergreen brand NORTHWEST MIX is a blend of local trees, grasses and other plants prepared homeopathically. Homeopathy works on the principle of “like cures like,” so low doses of the offending plants can help your body respond to the challenge. In addition, the formula contains liver and adrenal support and homeo-pathic histamine.

ALSO OF NOTE

The challenge of coping with histamine during an allergic reaction is very hard on our adrenals, liver and digestion. We can help if you’d like to support these systems with additional supplements.With the return of the warm, sunny weather it’s a pleasure to be outdoors. If allergies are preventing you from enjoying it to the fullest, give these products a try and step outside and have some fun.

From Evergreen’s Archives: May 2014

Versatile Melatonin: Not Just For Sleep Anymore! ~ Part 1

Versatile Melatonin: Not Just For Sleep Anymore!

Arguably the most popular and well-known supplement for sleep aside from the herb valerian, the hormone melatonin has been extensively studied for many years. In recent years research has revealed this key hormone to be more important and vital to human physiology than ever suspected. Far from merely regulating circadian rhythm (the body’s internal clock) and thus improving sleep in most cases, melatonin seems to be involved in nearly every body process in some capacity. Bone formation, metabolism, reproductive function, physical growth, brain health, and the immune system, among many others, are all impacted by melatonin. Receptors for melatonin are found in the nucleus of every cell, positively affecting cellular energy in the mitochondria, with profound influences in the body.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone released by the pineal gland at night (during darkness). It then travels throughout the body performing a daunting array of tasks. Other organs of vertebrates also produce melatonin. The retina and gastrointestinal tract are sources as well. The most well-known role of this hormone is that of regulating the body’s clock, or circadian rhythm. Melatonin is produced when the retina at the back of the eye registers darkness. Exposure to artificial light, and specifically blue light, reduces production. For this reason it is wise to discontinue use of electronic devices (cell phones, computers, television) at night at least two hours before bedtime. Children produce twice as much of the hormone as adults, and production gradually declines from our twenties to our fifties. As mentioned, the most well-known attribute of melatonin is its regulation of the circadian rhythm, and many studies have shown that people of any age who deal with jet lag, shift work (unusual hours) and even seasonal changes may benefit from supplementation to restore harmony in this regard. Circadian rhythms also synchronize the production and release of hypothalamic and pituitary hormones, therefore a stable regulation of this process is invaluable. We will look at some other roles of this important hormone which research has shown us.

Antioxidant Power

Melatonin has been shown to be a powerful antioxidant, capable of reducing oxidative stress under many circumstances. It directly disables reactive molecules and indirectly stimulates antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase. Its high concentration in the cells’ mitochondria seems to be one reason it is so effective at reducing oxidative stress. During the cellular energy cycle in the mitochondria, large amounts of free radicals are produced. Regular antioxidants such as vitamin E do not pass into this part of the cell to reduce inflammation and oxidation. The aging process is thought to be partly a result of deteriorating mitochondria and thus cell death. In several studies melatonin was shown to have profound cell protective qualities compared to other mitochondrial-entering antioxidants such as Mito-Q, a super ramped up version of CoQ10. Researchers feel that this action may help with many diseases of aging. It has also been shown to prevent the damage caused by hypoxia, in which cells are deprived of oxygen and are damaged or destroyed. In addition, it may help to chelate heavy metals, which can form some of the most dangerous hydroxyl radicals.

Brain Protection

Melatonin has been shown to protect the brain through a variety of mechanisms. It has the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert its antioxidant power to protect brain tissues from oxidative stress. Its ability to prevent the damage from hypoxia may help in cases of stroke and other conditions. It may help prevent neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, autism, and others. During sleep, it activates a waste-clearance system that is needed for removal of toxic amyloid protein deposits seen in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Melatonin has also been shown to improve myelination of nerve fibers, thereby protecting the brain’s white matter. Learning and memory are partly a result of brain plasticity (the ability for nerve cells to adapt and change). Melatonin facilitates this process of plasticity. Evergreen carries a variety of melatonin products lozenges, capsules, liquids; fast acting and sustained release in a range of doses from 1 mg to 10 mg. Available in-store only, is a plant-based melatonin, Herbatonin from Symphony Natural Health, that is available in 0.3 mg dose. That’s the same amount of melatonin naturally produced by the brain. Check out PubMed for research comparing plant-based Herbatonin and synthetic melatonin. In Part 2 of this newsletter we will look at melatonins’s role in respiratory and immune health. Stay tuned!  

Hyaluronic Acid: Deeper Than Skin

In two previous newsletters on Collagen and MSM we maintained that beauty is not really “skin deep” as the saying goes, but it goes deeper than skin. For without inner health joints, muscles, bones, cardiovascular system, etc. we will not radiate the vitality and grace that is the origin of outer beauty. In this newsletter, we introduce you to one of the most hydrophilic (water loving) substances in nature, hyaluronic acid, and show how it can help create beauty from within. Hyaluronic acid (also known as hyaluronan, hyaluronate or simply HA) is a naturally occurring carbohydrate made from glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-glucosamine. It is found in nearly every cell of our bodies, but is concentrated in the synovial fluid of joints, the vitreous and aqueous humors of the eyes and in the matrix of our connective tissues. Its rope-like structure gives it the impressive ability to bind with up to 1,000 times its weight in water creating a compression-resistant gel that provides structure for the eyes and lubricates joints and muscles. HA also moisturizes our tissues, including the fascia which enables our muscles to glide smoothly over nearby muscles and connective tissues so HA may offer relief to those suffering from myofascial pain. However, as we get older, we make less HA resulting in diminished mobility, dry, sagging, wrinkled skin and other signs of aging.

Joint Health

Hyaluronic acid is secreted by synovial membranes to create shock absorption for movable joints. It also brings nutrients to and waste from cartilage which has no blood supply (or nerves) of its own. HA is also present in bone and cartilage, especially hyaline cartilage that covers and cushions the ends of long, articulating bones. Hyaline cartilage is extremely durable making our bones and joints strong as well as resilient.   Hyaluronic acid may be helpful for those with fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. Aging and inflammation can cause deterioration of HA’s structure thereby diminishing the function of this amazing molecule, so, for people suffering from joint pain, HA supplementation can help get you moving freely again.

Skin Health

The skin, our largest organ, contains about half of our total hyaluronic acid. HA is part of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor and can slow premature aging. Both HA and collagen are responsible for the skin’s structure: collagen keeps the skin firm yet elastic while HA moisturizes the skin and its collagen. HA can be taken internally and/or applied topically to remedy dry skin and speed the healing of wounds as well as plantar and skin ulcers. Hyaluronic acid helps protect the skin from ultra-violet (and other) radiation and, when used topically, it creates a film on the skin’s outer layer to help prevent water loss making it a wise choice in dry environments. The skin of the scalp has a high concentration of hair follicles in the dermal layer. This layer contains connective tissues rich in hyaluronic acid that nourishes and hydrates the follicles which can result in healthy, lustrous hair.

And More …

Eye Health: Our eyes contain a very high concentration of HA in the vitreous humor, the fluid in the eyeball, that protects and nourishes the eyes and helps them keep their shape. Taking HA supplements like Hyalogic’s HylaVision can help maintain the health of the cornea and retina as well and may help improve floaters, dry eyes and poor eyesight. Oral Health: Hyaluronic acid’s moisturizing property makes it an ideal choice for dry mouth and Hyalogic’s HylaMints HA lozenges offer a great delivery method. And hyaluronic acid enhances oral health in another way, too. Our gums are made of connective tissue (ligaments) that holds the teeth to the jawbone. HA keeps these ligaments strong by nourishing and hydrating them. Taking hyaluronic acid can help maintain your beautiful smile for years to come.

MegaFood Supplements

No one would argue that wholesome food provides the best nutrition. However, many of us don’t have time to prepare well-balanced meals three times daily so we rely on supplements to make up the difference. Megafood FoodState® supplements are as close to food as a supplement can be since they are made from complex, phytonutrient-rich whole foods with the food matrix and vitality still intact, providing complete, self-contained nutrition. In addition, because FoodState® nutrients are recognized by our cells, they are effective at low doses and are safely used and excreted which is ideal for people who can become constipated or nauseous by supplements. Our bodies utilize nutrients only in the presence of food because protein chaperones in food have address tags (like zip codes) that deliver nutrients to specific cells for utilization, so hawthorn finds the heart, saw palmetto finds the prostate. The phrase “nutrient intelligence” refers to this process and this intelligence is innately present in whole foods. The rainbow of plant pigments in MegaFood products, such as anthocyanins, carotenes, chlorophyll, and flavonoids provide essential and protective nutrient delivery.

UNSURPASSED QUALITY

MegaFood’s ingredients are grown on an organic farm in Illinois and they manufacture all their products in their FDA-registered facility in New Hampshire, meeting stringent national and international standards. They measure the quality of raw materials by establishing marker compounds to validate phytonutrient activity. Growing, harvesting, processing, transporting, etc. — Megafood has total control of the process from beginning to end. Other than freeze-drying and low-temperature processing into tablets, the foods in Megafood supplements are unaltered from their natural state. Megafood products are ALL vegetarian, free from corn, milk, wheat, active yeast, sugars, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors, and synthetic excipients. Plus they are packaged in 100% recyclable amber glass.

From Evergreen’s Archive: October 2007

Amazing Curcumin

If you like to cook or eat curry you are already familiar with turmeric. But the tasty, yellow spice has more to offer than its delicious, exotic flavor. Curcumin, a component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), has an amazing array of health benefits. Curcumin is safe and effective health-promoting activities occur because of its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action since oxidative stress damages our cells and contributes to inflammation. Inflammation, in turn, contributes to obesity and is a factor in 80-90% of all disease. Because curcumin uses a variety of physiological pathways to accomplish its health-promoting feats it is beneficial for a variety of health conditions. It helps stop cellular degeneration that can lead to cancer. It protects the liver, kidneys and heart. It is beneficial for type 1 and type 2 diabetes and associated health risks like heart disease, nerve damage and blindness. It also protects DNA and lungs from environmental/occupational toxins and helps the liver with detoxification. As an antiinflammatory agent, it inhibits damaging COX2 enzymes but not beneficial COX 1 enzymes (unlike NSAIDs which inhibit both) and is thereby beneficial for osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It reduces homocysteine and C-reactive protein. It is a digestive and bitter herb, stimulating bile and enhancing digestion of fats. It also increases the antiobesity hormone adiponectin. Crossing the blood-brain barrier, it gets right into brain cells chelating heavy metals and promoting neurogenesis (new brain cells) while enhancing production of noradrenaline, tryptophan, dopamine and serotonin. Curcumin has been used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries and modern scientific research corroborates this ancient knowledge. If you’d like to learn more, stop by Evergreen Nutrition and we’ll be happy to get you better acquainted with this amazing herb.

AMAZING CURCUMIN

• Alzheimer’s/Dementia
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Cataracts
• Cholesterol
• Colds & Flu
• Crohn’s Disease
• Depression
• Diabetes
• HIV
• Lung Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Wound Healing

CURCUMIN IS

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial
• Antiviral
• Antifungal
• Antitumor
• Antiallergenic

From Evergreen’s Archive: September 2012

A Plethora of Protein Powders

More Than Muscle

Most people think of protein powder supplements simply as muscle-builders or possibly diet aids. The truth is that protein is involved in many biological systems and processes. Along with energy production, protein makes up and maintains all connective tissues (hair, skin and nails, tendons, ligaments, cartilage etc., along with collagen and keratin to support these tissues), bones, muscles and organs. Protein is a constituent of enzymes and hormones, and is vital for blood composition, making up hemoglobin and albumin which transport oxygen, hormones and fatty acids. Clearly, protein is not important just for the gym-rat anymore! Certain people may be at risk for deficiencies, including the elderly and the very young, athletes, pregnant women and dieters. Some vegan diets as well, if not consciously thought out, may lack enough protein to meet daily needs.

Allergen-Free

A wide variety of options exists nowadays for consumers wishing to supplement with protein powders. Sources of protein which are not common allergens are coming to the forefront. Soy is not terribly desirable for amultitude of reasons including indigestibility and anti-nutrients as well as its phytoestrogenic properties which men in particular may want to avoid. Whey protein, despite its high bioavailability, will not appeal to vegans and those with dairy sensitivities. Brown rice protein, a longtime stalwart of the industry, is declining in popularity with the increased interest in avoiding grains. Some plant-based proteins, despite not being common allergens, are not ideal sources as they are not complete proteins. This means they are lacking one or more of the nine essential amino acids which the body cannot manufacture and thus must be supplied by diet. Remember the old “rice and beans combining” adage? Francis Moore Lappe, who popularized this belief long ago, has recently retracted this idea, saying that the body will not immediately suffer if one meal is lacking a complete protein as long as it receives the missing amino acids in a subsequent meal, for instance, since the liver stores various essential amino acids. Even with this validation, a protein which is complete is certainly desirable for the body and the consumer.

The Powerful Pea

Enter the new superstar of protein powders: pea protein. This humble legume is a powerhouse of protein, not only containing all nine essential amino acids, but boasting one of the highest non-animal sources of the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) which prevent muscle breakdown and aid muscle recovery. Pea protein is hypoallergenic, alkaline-forming, non-GMO, gluten- and cholesterol-free, and has an extremely high absorbency rate, meaning it is quickly and easily assimilated and can be put to immediate use in muscles and the body. Most pea protein is in an isolate form as well, making it a concentrated protein containing around 25 grams per serving. Compared to whey protein at about 23 grams and brown rice protein at 12-14 grams per serving, pea protein is a lot of protein bang for your buck. Evergreen has several options for pea protein, appearing in blends with other plant proteins such as brown rice, or as a stand-alone protein, such as Nuzest’s Clean Lean Protein, which is from non-GMO Golden Peas specially grown in France under conditions protecting them from environmental toxins.

Mushrooms

Another exciting new protein source is medicinal mushrooms, which along with protein content will impart a host of additional benefits. Evergreen is pleased to have as one of our house label products a blend of plant-based proteins including brown rice and chia proteins with a blend of mushrooms including Reishi, Turkey Tail and Lion’s Mane. Nerve, brain, heart and immune support are wonderful bonuses here thanks to these mushrooms. This product also contains digestive enzymes and probiotics making it a truly multi-tasking protein product.