Healthy heart and brain in one pill

BiOmega

WHAT IS IT?

BiOmega is a fish oil supplement that supplies the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in a convenient capsule form.

WHAT DOES IT DO?
In 2002, the American Heart Association issued new guidance on fish and fish oil consumption because studies showed that that Omega-3 fatty acids supported cardiovascular health, proper brain and neural development, and maintenance of good joint health.


Produced from cold-water, deep-sea fish oil and contains a balanced, concentrated daily dose of two important omega-3 fatty acids: Eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexonic acid (DHA).



HOW IS IT DIFFERENT?
- Most purification processes for fish oil remove any vitamin D from the product.  Each Biomega capsule delivers 100 IU of vitamin D, a nutrient often found inadequate in most diets


- Formulated with lemon oil to eliminate the fishy aftertaste with most fish oil supplements


- Health authorities have warned us to limit our intake of certain species of fish due to concern about potential contaminants.  Biomega is manufacture in USANA’s state-of-the art manufacturing facility where it is free from contaminants.  Contaminants are eliminated through a double-molecular distillation process which ensures the highest possible purity.  Through this process, heavy metals, PCB’s, pesticides, and organic residues are eliminated. 


- Pharmaceutical Quality: Effective and Science-based. C.A.P.P.S

- Laboratory tested, quality guaranteed, meets USP specifications for potency, uniformity, and disintegration

QUESTIONS?
How is BiOmega purified?

No. All of USANA's products, including BiOmega, are completely free from trans-fatty acids.


Does BiOmega contain trans-fat?
BiOmega is made from a variety of deep-sea cold water fish species (e.g. anchovies, sardines).

Does BiOmega contain vitamin A?
No, BiOmega does not contain vitamin A


Can children take BiOmega?
Like most of USANA's Optimizers (with the exception of Body Rox Active Calcium Chewable and OptOmega), BiOmega is generally not recommended for children under the age of 18. In part, this is because the BiOmega gelcaps are quite large, making them difficult for many children to swallow.

We are aware that under certain circumstances BiOmega may be useful for children, but the recommendation for use should always come from a physician or other healthcare provider.


Can I take BiOmega if I have an allergy to fish?
If you have an allergy to fatty fish (e.g. salmon, mackerel, herring), we do not recommend using BiOmega.

If your allergy is specific to shellfish (e.g. shrimp, crab, lobster), BiOmega should not be a problem, as it does not contain any shellfish ingredients.




Can I take BiOmega during pregnancy?
Yes, BiOmega can be taken during pregnancy.

Research has shown that essential fatty acids are important for the developing baby, and many women don't get enough from diet alone. During pregnancy, the omega-3 fatty acids in BiOmega can help your baby's brain, eye, and nerve development, particularly during the last trimester.


Why was vitamin D added to BiOmega?
Vitamin D is found in certain foods and can be made in the body from exposure to sunlight. Varying amounts of sun exposure, the regular use of sun block, and dietary choices all influence vitamin D levels.

Many experts now believe that most people are not getting enough vitamin D. In addition, vitamin D is not found naturally in significant amounts in fish oil or fish oil products. Both omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D are essential to the diet, and fish oil is an ideal delivery medium for vitamin D (because vitamin D is fat soluble).

Based on a careful consideration of all these factors, we made the decision to integrate vitamin D into BiOmega.


Do any USANA products contain krill oil?
No USANA products currently contain krill oil.

Although some of the arguments for the use of krill oil may sound persuasive, overall it doesn't really stack up against a quality molecularly distilled and concentrated fish oil. It is much lower in DHA (9%) than our BiOmega product (23.5%), yet it is significantly more expensive. The bottom line is that for now, based on purity, potency, concentration, availability, and cost, our BiOmega is a much better choice for us.


Is BiOmega free from heavy metals and other contaminants?
Yes, for all practical intents and purposes. It is not possible - nor is it necessary - to have a product that is absolutely and completely free of any contaminants. No matter how much purification was done, a trace would always be found depending on the sensitivity of the testing method.

Take mercury, for example. BiOmega is as purified as it gets with regard to mercury, and is tested to contain a maximum of .01 ppm (parts per million). In other words, it is at least 99.999999% free of mercury. This level is thousands of times lower than a typical can of tuna fish, and well below the acceptable safe level (1 ppm, as specified by the FDA).

INGREDIENTS

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol is generated in the skin of animals when light energy is absorbed by a precursor molecule 7-dehydrocholesterol. Vitamin D is thus not a true vitamin, because individuals with adequate exposure to sunlight do not require dietary supplementation.


Cholecalciferol is a vitamin D3. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.

Cholecalciferol is used to treat or prevent many conditions caused by a lack of vitamin D, especially conditions of the skin or bones.


Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
One of several omega-3 fatty acids used by the body. The typical Western diet is relatively deficient in omega-3 fatty acids compared to the diets of our ancestors. The main dietary sources of EPA in the United States are cold water fish, such as wild salmon. Fish oil supplements may also raise concentrations of EPA in the body. Increased intake of EPA has been shown to be beneficial in coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis.


Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
An omega-3 fatty acid. It is found in cold water fatty fish and in fish oil supplements, along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). There are also vegetarian sources of DHA, which come from seaweed. DHA is essential for the proper functioning of our brains as adults, and for the development of our nervous system and visual abilities during the first 6 months of life. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are part of a healthy diet that helps lower risk of heart disease. Our bodies naturally produce small amounts of DHA, but we must get the amounts we need from our diet or from supplements. Most people in the Western world do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

References

1. Bourre JM. Biomed Pharmacother 2007;61(2-3):105–12.

2. Benatti P, et al. J Am Coll Nutr 2004;23(4):281–302.

3. Kris-Etherton PM, et al. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;71(1 Suppl):179S–88S.

4. Kris-Etherton PM, et al. Circulation 2002;106:2747–2757.

5. Volker D, et al. J Rheumatol 2000;27(10):2343–6.

6. Curtis CL, et al. Proc Nutr Soc 2002;61(3):381–9.

7. Uauy R, et al. Lipids. 2001;36(9):885–95.

8. Hogstrom M, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;85(3)803–7.

9. Weiss LA, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005;81(4):934–8.

10. Stordy JB. The Lancet 1995;346(8971):385.

11. Helland IB, et al. Pediatrics 2003;111(1):e39–44.

12. Salem, Jr, N, et al. Wrld Rev of Nut and Diet 1994;75:46–51.

13. Bischoff-Ferrari HA, et al. JAMA 2005;293(18):2257–64.

14. Black PN, et al. Chest. 2005;128(6):3792–8.

You can now experience a strong and healthy cardiovascular system

CoQuinone 30

have 

WHAT IS IT?

The energy that every cell needs to function is produced through a complex process in the mitochondria, an organelle within the cell often called the cellular powerhouse. Cells store energy in a molecule called adenosine-5-triphosphate or ATP. CoQuinone 30 contains advanced levels of Coenzyme Q10 (an essential part of the electron transport chain used to make ATP), which is synthesized and used by every cell in the body.

WHAT DOES IT DO?

Cells with the highest energy demands, such as in the heart, contain the highest levels of CoQ10. CoQ10 has been studied for years in the U.S., Europe, and Japan for its role in producing cellular energy and re-energizing the heart and other muscles.

- Includes advanced levels of Coenzyme Q10, which promotes a strong and healthy cardiovascular system and contributes to overall antioxidant protection.

- Supports energy metabolism in muscles

WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT?
- Clinical tests show that Coquinone 30 delivers CoQ10 in much higher quantities than from solid formulations or from competitive liquid formulations, making Coquinone 30 more bioavailable than other CoQ10 products.

- A potent antioxidant blend

- Patented formula: Contains both Coenzyme Q10 and alpha lipoic acid in a highly bioavailable formula

- Listed in the Physicians Desk Reference

- Pharmaceutical Quality: Effective and Science-based. C.A.P.P.S

- Laboratory tested, quality guaranteed, meets USP specifications for potency, uniformity, and disintegration

INGREDIENTS

Coenzyme Q10 
An energy coenzyme that plays an essential role in mitochondrial electron transport, and is thus fundamental for energy production in our cells.

Coenzyme Q10 is also an antioxidant. Its ability to quench free radicals helps maintain the structural integrity and stability of cell membranes (including intracellular membranes). It further serves to reduce oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

Evidence suggests that the most important antioxidant activity of Coenzyme Q10 involves regeneration of Vitamin E. CoQ10 is also called ubiquinone, a name that signifies its ubiquitous (widespread) distribution in the human body. Highest levels of Coenzyme Q10 are found in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas.

CoQ10 supplementation has been shown to have therapeutic benefits for several diseases. Some of the best-documented effects involve cases of heart failure, ischemic heart disease, certain muscular dystrophies, hypertension, and periodontal disease.

CoQ10 is synthesized in all cells of the body (but particularly liver cells). It is also absorbed from the foods we eat. Major sources of dietary CoQ10 include meats, fish, and vegetable oils (particularly soybean, sesame, and rapeseed oils). Vegetables are generally low in CoQ10, with the exception of spinach and broccoli.

As aging occurs, the body's ability to synthesize CoQ10 diminishes significantly. Deficiencies may also result from reduced assimilation from dietary sources.

Coenzyme Q10 supplements are generally considered safe and are best absorbed by the body when taken with foods. The usual maintenance dose is 10-30 mg per day, although higher doses are used therapeutically for the treatment of heart and blood vessel disease.

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid
A vitamin-like antioxidant sometimes referred to as the "universal antioxidant" because it is both fat and water-soluble. Alpha Lipoic Acid is capable of regenerating several antioxidants back to their active states, including vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10.

Several experimental and clinical studies have shown that alpha lipoic acid has potential therapeutic uses in diabetes, atherosclerosis, cataracts, heavy metal poisoning, neuro-degenerative diseases, and HIV infection.

Alpha lipoic acid is produced naturally by most organisms (including humans). It is also present in many foods. Potatoes provide a particularly significant dietary source.

Currently no RDI value has been set, nor has the issue been adequately studied. Some researchers believe that the amount needed for therapeutic antioxidant activity exceeds that produced by our bodies or consumed in a normal diet. As such, alpha lipoic acid is a strong candidate for dietary supplementation. Maintenance doses of 10-25 mg per day have been suggested and doses of up to several hundred milligrams per day have been used therapeutically.

Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)
Derived from coconut oil and are much more readily digested, absorbed, and metabolized than either animal fats or vegetable oils, which contain mainly long-chain triglycerides. MCTs are an excellent delivery system for fat-soluble elements, such as vitamin E, especially for individuals with fat malabsorption disorders.

(Note: MCTs do not contribute to a rise in blood cholesterol.)

Glycerin Monooleate
A polar lipid that functions as a humectant and solvent. It is prepared by the esterification of glycerin with fatty acids (chiefly oleic acid).

Glycerin
Functions as a humectant and solvent and is essential to the pliability and stability of gelcaps.

Annatto
Seed extract is a naturally occurring pigment that functions as both an opacifier and a food coloring agent.

Titanium Dioxide
A naturally occurring pigment that functions as an opacifier and food coloring agent. It occurs naturally in minerals, and is used in a wide variety of consumable products.

PLEASE WATCH OUT FOR MORE POST, I WILL BE PROMOTING THE BEST SUPPLEMENTS WHICH YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT DISEASES AND ACHIEVE EXTRAORDINARY HEALTH.

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

References

1. Sarter B. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2002;16(4):9-20.

2. Langsjoen PH, Langsjoen AM. Biofactors 1999;9:273-84.

3. Soja AM, Mortensen SA. Ugeskr Laeger 1997;159:7302-08.

4. Satta A, et al. Clin Ther 1991;13:754-57.

5. Kamikawa T, et al. Am J Cardiol 1985;56:247-51.

6. Littaru GP, Battino M, Folkers K. Handbook of Antioxidants. New York: Marcel Dekker; 1996.

7. Kagan VE, Nohl H, Quinn PJ. Handbook of Antioxidants. New York: Marcel Dekker; 1996.

8. Alleva R, et al. Mol Aspects Med 1997;81(Supp):S105-12.

9. Kontush A, et al. Biochim Biophys Acta 1995;1258:177-87.

10. Nohl H, Gille L. Z Naturforsch [C] 1998;53:250-53.

11. Kagan VE, et al., J Lipid Res 1992; 33:385-97.

12. Bast A, Haenen GR. Biochim Biophys Acta 1988;963:558-61.

13. Kalen A, et al. Lipids 1989;24:579-84.

14. Aberg F, et al. Eur J Clin Invest 1998;28:235-42.

15. Mortensen SA, et al. Mol Aspects Med 1997;18(Supp):S137-44.

16. Palomaki A, et al. FEBS Lett 1997;410:254-58.

17. Cuomo J, Rabovsky A. Clinical Research Bulletin 2001. USANA Health Sciences.

YOU CAN HAVE A LIFE FREE FROM HEART DISEASE

Proflavanol (Proflavanol C in Canada) and Proflavanol 90

WHAT IS IT?

Grape seed extract and vitamin C. The proanthocyanidins (a type of bioflavonoid) in grape seed extract appear to be some of the most powerful free-radical scavengers yet discovered. These proanthocyanidins are available in only extremely small amounts from foods.

Proflavanol supplements can be a key weapon in your antioxidant arsenal. Together with vitamin C, these exclusive formulations provide you with potent free-radical scavengers for superior antioxidant protection.

Health Basics

WHAT DOES IT DO?
- Provides potent antioxidant formula of a combination of grape seed bioflavanoids and Poly C

- Powerful Anti-Inflammatory

- Supports Respiratory Function: Allergies, Asthma
- Improves cardiovascular function to fight against heart disease

- Helps maintain balanced immune function
- Important for maintaining healthy, younger-looking skin

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT?
- Clinically proven to promote sound cardiovascular health
- Grape-seed bioflavonoids and vitamin C work together to provide

advanced antioxidant protection
- Combine highest quality grape-seed extract with the free-radical quenching power of Poly C.  Laboratory studies at USANA confirm that, when used together, these ingredients provide significantly better protection against free radicals and also conserve and regenerate vitamins C and E

- Pharmaceutical Quality: Effective and Science-based. C.A.P.P.S

- Laboratory tested, quality guaranteed, meets USP specifications for potency, uniformity, and disintegration

INGREDIENTS

Vitamin C (As Calcium ASCORBATE)

Calcium ascorbate: Pure calcium ascorbate provides 114 mg of calcium per 1,000 mg of ascorbic acid (vitamin c). Calcium in this form appears to be reasonably well absorbed. The recommended dietary calcium intake for adults is 1,000 to 1,200 mg/day. Total calcium intake should not exceed the tolerable upper intake level of 2,500 mg/day.

The following mineral ascorbates are more likely to be found in combination with other mineral ascorbates, as well as other minerals. It’s a good idea to check the labels of dietary supplements for the ascorbic acid dose as well as the dose of each mineral.

Combining ascorbic acid with calcium produces a supplement which is less acidic and therefore easier on the digestive tract.  This allows for the use of higher doses without possible side effects such as diarrhea, rashes and stomach aches that may occur in sensitive individuals taking pure vitamin C.

Calcium Ascorbate is a natural form of Vitamin C, which is much more readily absorbed in the blood stream than the other forms of calcium. Importantly, calcium is coupled with Vitamin C to deliver the benefits of both calcium & Vitamin C.

Awareness of the necessity of calcium for long term bone health has grown substantially and calcium fortification has exploded across the food chain.

While Vitamin C is the most commonly known vitamin, its health promoting benefits go beyond its ready availability. It is effective against common colds and it is one of the best-known free radical scavengers.

Potassium Ascorbate
Provides a readily available source of Vitamin C and potassium. it is a non-citrus, low allergy form of Vitamin C.

Because most people consume an adequate amount of potassium every day, the average American is not in need of supplemental potassium. The richest dietary sources of potassium are unprocessed foods, especially fruits, many vegetables, and fresh meats. However, some potassium can be found in nearly all foods (including the USANA Macro-Optimizers). Adding potassium to the tablets or capsules would simply displace other important nutrients that are more difficult to obtain from a typical diet.

Some individuals taking certain medications may require additional potassium. In those cases, they should consult their physician regarding recommendations on products and proper dosages.

Magnesium Ascorbate
Provides both the essential magnesium mineral and Vitamin C for the human body.  In Magnesium Ascorbate, the acidic Vitamin C is neutralized by the accompanying Magnesium, and the Vitamin C becomes less irritating to the stomach. Magnesium Ascorbate is an excellent addition to one's daily supplement intake.

Magnesium is involved in many important actions in the body. It is necessary for bone, protein, fatty acid formation, cell generation and activating B Vitamins. For energy, Magnesium is vital to the formation of ATP.  For the heart, Magnesium helps relax muscles.

Magnesium is an essential mineral for many fundamental processes in the body. It normally exists in the body as a charged particle (or ion) and is primarily stored in bones. Magnesium plays an integral role in hundreds of enzymatic functions and is important for nerve, muscle, and bone health.

Magnesium helps with the absorption of calcium and depends on vitamin D for its own absorption. Food dietary sources of magnesium include spinach, legumes, nuts, and grains.

The recommended dietary allowance for magnesium is 400mg/d for men and 310mg/d for women. Excessive intake can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, but no adverse effect has been seen for long-term consumption of amounts less than or equal to 700mg/d.

Zinc Ascorbate
A natural gentle immune booster and represents "Optimal Nutritional" supplement of the vital micromineral Zinc. Zinc plays important roles in immunity, and various metabolic processes. Ascorbic acid’s immunomodulatory properties and use as immune stimulator is accentuated when used as Zinc Ascorbate due to the ready availability Zinc.

Zinc is a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes needed for cell function in the eyes, kidneys, muscles, skin, and bones. As a component of metalloenzymes, zinc provides structural integrity to the enzyme and/or participates directly in the reaction at the catalytic site.

Zinc also serves as a necessary structural component of DNA-binding proteins that affect gene expression (the so-called "zinc finger").

Alcohol dehydrogenase contains four zinc ions per molecule. This enzyme is important in the conversion of retinol to retinal, which is needed for vision. Zinc appears to provide an additive effect to antioxidants in promoting good visual acuity.

Another of zinc's important physiological roles involves cell membranes. Zinc affects the activity of enzymes attached to plasma membranes. Some of these enzymes include alkaline phosphatase, carbonic anhydrase, and superoxide dismutase. Zinc also directly affects cell membranes by stabilizing phospholipids and thiol groups that need to be maintained in a reduced state to prevent peroxidative damage.

As the cofactor for many enzymes, zinc frees the vitamin folate so that it can move across the cell membrane. It also aids in the manufacture of heme and in essential fatty acid metabolism, and it helps release vitamin A from its storage place in the liver.

Meat, liver, eggs, and seafood are considered good food sources of zinc.

High intakes of zinc for an extended period of time can negatively affect copper absorption. Generally, zinc intake is considered completely safe at levels below 60mg/d.

Grape Seed Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Common Grape Vine)

The cardioprotective effect of red wine has been attributed to a group of bioflavonoid compounds called proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins are concentrated in the seeds of grapes. These compounds are incorporated into red wine during the fermentation process, when the must (crushed grapes, seeds, stems, skin, and juice) are held in vats for several weeks.

The bioflavonoids in red wine and in grape seed extract comprise a complex mixture composed of two monomer (or single unit) compounds named catechin and epicatechin, and various polymeric products of these two compounds. In vitro (laboratory) studies on catechin, epicatechin, and the grape bioflavonoids have shown them to be free radical scavengers that may be several times more potent than the antioxidant vitamins C and E.

These compounds effectively inhibit oxidation of human low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Grape Seed Extract has also been shown to be anti-inflammatory and potentially capable of enhancing capillary strength.

The principal food source for grape seed bioflavonoids is red wine. White wine and grape juice contain smaller amounts of proanthocyanidins.

Ascorbyl palmitate

A fat-soluble form of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. Unlike ascorbic acid, which is water-soluble, ascorbyl palmitate is not water-soluable. Consequently ascorbyl palminate can be stored in cell membranes until it is required by the body. Many people think vitamin C (ascorbyl palminate) is only used for immune support, but it has many other important functions. A major role of vitamin C is in manufacturing collagen, a protein that forms the basis of connective tissue - the most abundant tissue in the body. Ascorbyl palmitate is an effective free radical-scavenging antioxidant which promotes skin health and vitality.

Ascorbic Acid vs. Ascorbyl Palmitate

Ascorbic acid is the simplest most readily available form of Vitamin C. However, since ascorbic acid is water soluble, the body will always have problems absorbing it. While the absorption of water soluble vitamin C is quite quick, its penetration in cells is limited. Unlike Vitamin E, a fat soluble vitamin, vitamin C is not stored in the body. This makes ascorbyl palmitate a very attractive form of Vitamin C supplementation.

Additional Benefits of Ascorbyl Palmitate

Ascorbyl palmitate, working at the cell membrane, has been shown to provide antioxidant action potential comparable or even greater than that of vitamin E. It also acts synergistically with vitamin E, helping to regenerate the vitamin E radical on a constant basis.

PLEASE WATCH OUT FOR MORE POST, I WILL BE PROMOTING THE BEST SUPPLEMENTS WHICH YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT DISEASES AND ACHIEVE EXTRAORDINARY HEALTH.

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

References
1. Middleton E, et al. Pharmacol Rev. 2000. 52:673-751.
2. Y oshida M, et al. Cancer Res. 1992. 52:6676-6681.
3. K rinsky N. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1992. 200:248-254.
4. F u Y, et al. Mol Pharmacol 2008 73(5):1465-73.
5. M iddleton E and Kandaswami C Biochem Pharmacol 1992. 43:1167-1179.
6. Dell’Agli M, et al. Cardiovasc Res 2004;63(4):593-602.
7. Folts JD. Adv Exp Med Biol 2002;505:95-111.
8. Cos P, et al. Curr Med Chem 2004;11(10):1345-59.
9. Renaud S, de Lorgeril M, Lancet 1992;339:1523-26.
10. Stoclet JC, et al. J Physiol Pharmacol 1999;50: 535-40.
11. Cuevas AM, et al. Lipids 2000;35:143-48.
12. F uhrman B, et al. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:549-54.
13. G azave JM, et al. Biochem Exp Biol 1978;14:25-31.
14. B aruch J. Ann Chir Plast Esthet 1984;29(4).
15. K akegawa , et al. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 1985;5079-82.
16. B eylot C, Bioulac P. Gaz Med de France 1980;87(22).
17. M affei F, et al. Arzneimittelforschung 1994;44:592-601.
18. W hitehead TP, et al. Clin Chem 1995;41:32-35.
19. Lagrue G, et al. Sem Hop Paris 1981;September:18-25.

healthy hearth

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in men in the United States. The good news is that practicing a balance of healthy lifestyle habits can help you achieve optimal cardiovascular function. Incorporate the following into your daily routine to help promote the health of your heart:

• Exercise. Regular physical activity helps maintain the health of blood vessels, strengthens the heart muscle itself and can help reduce heart disease risk factors including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, insulin resistance and stress. Aim for 30 minutes a day of moderate aerobic activity on most days of the week. For individual guidance, consult a personal trainer.
• Lose weight. If you are overweight or obese, even modest weight loss can significantly lower risks of cardiovascular disease.
• Don't smoke. Smoking is the major preventable risk factor for heart disease and has negative health consequences for your entire body, from your taste buds to your energy levels to your skin. Seek support and credible guidance in quitting.
• Manage stress. Uncontrolled stress can raise blood pressure, influence cholesterol and may even increase homocysteine levels. To help manage day-to-day challenges, practice breath work, meditation, guided imagery, visualization or another relaxation technique; participate in regular moderate exercise (including yoga and tai chi); and stay social and laugh often.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a very serious heart condition in which the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the circulatory needs of the body. Even though the condition typically gets worse over time, people are able to live with the disease for many years.

Causes and Symptoms

CHF can stem from any disease that causes impairment in the heart's ability to contract and pump blood. The impaired pumping power may follow a heart attack in which the heart muscle was damaged, or the muscles may become thick or inflexible from hypertension, diabetes, or improperly functioning valves. When the heart is constantly overworked, it first becomes larger and thicker - as will any muscle in the body that you consistently exercise and push hard - and it begins to beat more frequently. These changes eventually compromise the heart's efficiency, however, and over time the heart tires out. Back pressure in the circulatory system may have damaging effects on other organs, such as the kidneys, and fluid may collect in the lower legs, causing swelling, or in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.

Factors linked to CHF include: 

• Diabetes
• An overactive thyroid gland
• A viral or bacterial infection in the heart muscle
• Morbid obesity
• High blood pressure
• Damaged heart valves 

Symptoms of CHF may include:

• Fatigue and weakness, particularly when performing physical activities, which stems from a lack of sufficient oxygen to the muscles.
• Swelling in the lower extremities. If the right side of the heart is affected, fluid builds up in the feet, ankles, abdomen, liver and legs. Left-sided heart failure can cause fluid retention in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath.
• Wheezing or coughing up pinkish phlegm.
• Dizzy spells.
• Rapid weight gain from fluid retention.  

Recommended Lifestyle Changes

The most important thing you can change is your diet - obesity and diabetes are both linked to diet, and both linked to CHF. Consult a nutritionist to determine a diet right for your situation.  

• If you smoke, quit. Tobacco has direct and damaging effects on the cardiovascular system.
• Avoid salt. Sodium promotes fluid retention. Avoid high-sodium foods, heavily processed foods and unnecessary salt.
• Take your prescribed medication. Diuretics ("water pills") and beta blockers, as well as Digitalis and others can strengthen the heart and make it work more efficiently.
• Check other meds. Over-the-counter NSAIDS, such as aspirin, Motrin (ibuprofen) and Aleve (Naproxen) may increase fluid retention. Tell your doctor about any remedies you are taking.
• Control risk factors. Work with your doctor to address high blood pressure, diabetes and atherosclerosis or other heart problems.
• Reduce stress. The hormones released by the body in response to stress, anxiety and depression make the heart work harder. Practice relaxation techniques, volunteer, and seek positive social interactions. The relaxing breath (taught elsewhere on this site) can improve the oxygenation of blood and take workload off the heart.

Nutrition and Supplements

If you are coping with, or are at risk of congestive heart failure, try the following: 

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be beneficial for heart health by re-energizing the mitochondria in the heart cells, which is where energy metabolism occurs. This nutrient is very important for the heart cells of patients with heart failure. CoQ10 may also help lower blood pressure.
• L-Carnitine. This amino acid is essential for energy metabolism of the heart muscle.
• Cordyceps. This medicinal mushroom is a good energy booster and can improve the efficiency of the lungs and heart.
• Hawthorne. This herb may increase heart-muscle strength and also act as a mild diuretic.  

Be sure to discuss the use of any supplement with your doctor. Your prescription drug dosages may need to be adjusted as these other measures take effect.

An apple a day keeps cardiologist away

Eating an apple each day may help to keep the cardiologist away. Daily apple consumption appears to help lower cholesterol, according to a small study at Florida State University. Researchers randomly assigned 160 women between the ages of 45 and 65 to eat 2.7 ounces of dried apples or dried plums (prunes) prunes every day for a year. Afterward, the investigators found that the women who ate the dried apples had reduced their total cholesterol by 14 percent and their LDL ("bad") cholesterol by 23 percent. They also saw a four percent increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol. Even though the dried apples added 240 calories to the women's daily diets, they lost an average of 3.3 pounds over the year - possibly because the apples and their fiber content provided a sense of fullness. Another benefit: a drop in levels of C-reactive protein, a substance in blood that is a marker for inflammation. High levels of CRP are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. The Florida State investigators also reported a drop in levels of lipid hydroperoxide, another substance that may indicate heart disease risk. Slight reductions of cholesterol and the other substances occurred among the women who ate prunes as well, but not to the extent seen among those who ate the dried apples.

Apples really are good for you - as long as they're fresh and organically grown. In addition to the encouraging results of the Florida State study, other research has shown that eating apples may reduce the risk of cancers of the colon, liver, prostate and lung (thanks to the flavonoids they contain). In addition, studies have shown that eating apples may reduce chronic cough and other respiratory symptoms, that people who eat the most apples (and pears) have the lowest risk of asthma, that eating an apple a day may reduce the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in smokers, and that for every 10 grams of fiber consumed daily, you may be able to lower your risk of developing heart disease by 14 percent and your risk of dying from heart disease by 27 percent. A single apple gives you five grams of fiber.