5 preventive measures to help keep joints healthy

Many of us will experience the effects of normal wear and tear on our joints as we age. While we can't keep from growing older, small preventive measures can help keep joints healthy for a lifetime - consider these nutrition and lifestyle tips:

1. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as cold water, oily fish like salmon and sardines; walnuts; and freshly ground flaxseeds. Spices like ginger and turmeric can also help reduce inflammation. My Anti-Inflammatory Food Pyramid has more information and specific recommendations.
2. Eat foods rich in antioxidants. Found in fresh vegetables and fruit, antioxidants may help reduce tissue damage from inflammation.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. Losing just a few pounds can alleviate excess mechanical stress on joints.
4. Avoid intense activities that can injure or strain the joint cartilage.
5. Get exercise. Performed at a level that does not stress joints, daily physical activity is the key to maintaining lifelong mobility - it strengthens surrounding muscles that support and protect joints. Swimming, stationary cycling and light weight training are good choices, as are stretching and balance exercises such as yoga and tai chi.

Prevention at Any Age
It's something people of all ages fear about growing old: becoming sick and being a burden to themselves or to others. But you can take charge - today - and start helping to prevent age-related disease. Sign up for Dr. Weil on Healthy Aging and get the facts, tips, support and information you need to get started on a healthy path for the rest of your life.

ref:
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/TIP04209/Joints-Feeling-Achy.html

NAC discovered, investigated as a treatment for AIDS

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)

NAC is an antioxidant that increases intracellular glutathione at the cellular level. NAC can act as a precursor for glutathione synthesis as well as a stimulator of the cytosolic enzymes involved in glutathione regeneration. NAC is the more efficiently absorbed and used form of the amino acid L-cysteine. L-cysteine plays a role in the sulfation cycle, acting as a sulfur donor16 in phase II detoxification and as a methyl donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.17,18 N-acetyl cysteine also enhances immune function.19-22 NAC attenuates the progression of the abnormal retention of lipids within liver cells by decreasing development of oxidative stress and subsequent increases in TNF-alpha.23 In addition, N-acetyl cysteine is used to support bronchial health.24-27

A metabolite of the sulfur-containing amino acid, Cysteine. Cysteine is found in high protein foods, N-Acetyl Cysteine is not. N-Acetyl Cysteine is produced within the human body. Cysteine plays a role in the sulfation cycle, acting as a sulfur donor in phase II detoxification and as a methyl donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. Cysteine also helps synthesize glutathione, one of the body's most important natural antioxidants and detoxifiers. N-Acetyl-Cysteine is the acetylated form of L-Cysteine.

N-Acetyl Cysteine increases Glutathione Levels

      N-Acetyl Cysteine is rapidly metabolized to intracellular glutathione. Glutathione acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Glutathione also detoxifies chemicals into less harmful compounds. N-Acetyl Cysteine also protects the body from acetaminophen toxicity and is used in hospitals for patients with acetaminophen poisoning. It has also been shown to be effective at treating liver failure from other causes as well.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Chelates Heavy Metals

      Heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic are detoxified and removed from the body by N-Acetyl Cysteine . It also increases the excretion of zinc and other essential minerals when taken over an extended period. It is therefore necessary to supplement zinc, copper and other trace minerals when taking N-Acetyl Cysteine.

N-Acetyl Cysteine and the Immune System

      Glutathione is known to aid in the transport of nutrients to lymphocytes and phagocytes, two major classes of immune cells, and to protect cell membranes. While purified glutathione is available as a dietary supplement, absorption is low, and N-Acetyl Cysteine is thought to be a better method of boosting cellular glutathione levels. N-Acetyl Cysteine is being investigated as a treatment for AIDS.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Breaks up Mucus

      N-Acetyl Cysteine cleaves disulfide bonds by converting them to two sulfhydryl groups. This action results in the breakup of mucoproteins in lung mucus, reducing their chain lengths and thinning the mucus, improving conditions such as bronchitis and flu. Double-blind research has found that N-Acetyl Cysteine supplements improved symptoms and prevented recurrences in people with chronic bronchitis. N-Acetyl Cysteine at a dosage of 1,200 mg per day helps to prevent Influenza infection, reduces the symptoms of existing Influenza infection and reduces the duration of Influenza infections.

N-Acetyl Cysteine and Cancer

      N-Acetyl Cysteine has been shown to reduce the proliferation of certain cells lining the colon and may reduce the risk of colon cancer in people with recurrent polyps in the colon. Its action as an antioxidant and a glutathione precursor may also contribute to a protective effect against cancer.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Cautions

      When taking N-acetyl cysteine it is recommended that two to three times as much vitamin C be taken at the same time. Failure to do so may result in more harm than good from taking this product because of the prolonged presence of the oxidized form of L-Cysteine. The vitamin C also helps keep the glutathione that is produced from the Cysteine in its reduced form so that it can continue acting as an antioxidant.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Dosage

      Typical dosage recommendations are in the range of 250-1500mg of NAC daily for the majority of therapeutic benefits.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Safety

      NAC is considered safe for consumption in its therapeutic dosage ranges. Individual reactions may vary and anyone experiencing adverse symptoms while taking N-Acetyl Cysteine should discontinue it.

Other benefits:

It turns out that a little known dietary supplement may be your best defense against symptoms of the flu and common cold. The supplement, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is a form of the amino acid cysteine and a component of protein. It's also one of the most potent immune boosters around.

Never heard of it? Virtually every hospital emergency room in the country stocks it as an antidote for acetaminophen (Tylenol®) poisoning. Overdoses of acetaminophen, a common analgesic drug, deplete your liver's supply of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, leading to liver failure. Large supplemental doses of NAC restore liver glutathione levels and help the organ break down acetaminophen.

NAC has also been used since the 1960s as a "mucolytic" agent-that is, to break down lung-clogging mucous in chronic bronchitis and other respiratory disorders. Rich in what chemists call "free sulfhydryl groups," NAC breaks down the disfulfide bonds of mucous-in essence, thinning it out.

NAC Reduces Flu Symptoms

NAC has several key functions in the body. It is a precursor to glutathone, the principal antioxidant made in the body, meaning that NAC raises glutathione levels. Like other sulfur-containing nutrients, NAC is a powerful antioxidant. It also helps the liver break down hazardous compounds-that is, after all, part of the liver's job.

Unlike pure cysteine, which can be neurotoxic in high doses, NAC is completely safe. The "acetyl" part of the name comes from the fact that its cysteine is acetylated. That means it is bonded to a molecules called an "acetyl group." similar to the molecules that make up acetic acid, or vinegar. Acetylatation increases absorption, stability, and safety.

Researchers have for years studied NAC as a natural cancer-preventive compound. Glutathione levels are typically lower than normal in people with cancer and other serious diseases. Given NAC's ability to boost glutathione levels and to clear congested lungs, one of these researchers decided to test NAC on elderly men and women susceptible to flus and "flu-like" symptoms.

Silvio De Flora, M.D., of the Institute of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine at the University of Genoa, Italy, enrolled 262 subjects in a randomized, double-blind study to test the benefits of NAC. The subjects were given either two placeboes or two 600 mg NAC tablets daily for six months overlapping the wintertime flu season. All of the participants kept a daily log of their health and symptoms, and some were tested for flu antibodies.

While NAC did not prevent infection with flu germs, its effect was "striking," according to De Flora. Of the people with laboratory-confirmed flus who were taking NAC, only 25 percent developed symptoms. In contrast, 79 percent of the men and women taking placeboes developed clear-cut flu symptoms, according to De Flora's article in the European Respiratory Journal. In other words, NAC supplements reduced the likelihood of having flu symptoms by more than two-third.

Not everyone who gets sick during the winter, however, actually has the flu. So De Flora and his colleagues looked at more general flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, achiness, nasal discharge, cough, and sore throat. Again, the differences between people taking NAC and placeboes was unmistakable. Month to month, over the flu and cold season, people taking NAC had anywhere from one-third to one-half the flu-like symptoms of those taking placeboes.

"An additional criterion for evaluating the severity of influenza-like episodes was the length of time in bed which, irrespective of the age of patients, was remarkably shorter in NAC-treated subjects," noted De Flora. "In fact, in the 10 subjects suffering from influenza-like episodes who were not bedridden, nine were under NAC treatment.

Overall, subjects taking NAC weathered their flu-like symptoms with greater ease. Most of the people taking NAC had mild flu-like symptoms, In contrast, a larger percentageof people suffered moderate and severe symptoms.

All of the subjects also underwent period immune function tests, in which antigens (noninfectious bacterial compounds) were applied to the skin. In healthy people, these antigens trigger a noticeable immune response, but the study's elderly subjects responded sluggishly when De Flora began his study. Retested after one, three, and six months , immune responsiveness-the ability to respond to an infection-improved steadily among people taking NAC, but not among those taking placeboes.

In concluding remarks, De Flora noted that NAC was not virus-specific and could provide "broad-spectrum protection" to ease or eliminate symptoms of infection, particularly in elderly and other people at risk for contracting the flu.

Increases Life Expectancy in AIDS

Further evidence of NAC's immune-enhancing properties comes from a study of patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), one of the most deadly viruses. Geneticists Lenora Herzenberg, Ph.D., Leonard Herzenberg, Ph.D., and their colleagues at Stanford University, determined that patients with HIV infections and acquired immune-deficiency syndrome (AIDS) had low levels of glutathione, and that declining of glutathione levels were a better indication of life expectancy than were a decrease in CD4 immune cells. CD4 T cells are the immune cells targeted and destroyed by HIV.

The Hertzenberg's followed 204 AIDS patients for three years. Those with normal glutathione levels in their CD4 cells generally outlived those with low glutathione levels. The Herzenberg's gave the AIDS patients either very large doses of NAC-3,200-8,000 mg-or a placebo daily for six weeks. Patients taking NAC had increased blood levels of glutathione.

After this phase of the study, The Herzenberg's offered NAC to all of the patients, and a majority took it for six months. Those who chose to take NAC supplements were "roughly twice as likely to survive for 2 years as the subjects who did not take NAC," explained Leonard Herzenberg.

Several years ago, researchers at the Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy, investigated how NAC enhances the immune response. Giovanni A. Rossi, M.D., and his colleagues studied NAC's effect on two types of immune cells, alverolar macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes, obtained from human subjects. The macrophages were incubated by Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that causes strep throat and "flesh-eating bacteria" infections.

When Rossi added NAC to some of the cell cultures, the bacteria-killing properties of the macrophages and leukocytes increased significantly. Normally, these cells react so strongly to infections that many are killed in the process. With NAC, however, the enhanced germ-killing effect of macrophages and leukocytes did not result in greater self-destruction of these immune cells.

May Help Prevent Cancer

NAC has also shown promise as a "chemopreventive," or cancer-preventing, compound. Most cancers are caused by damage to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which contains the genetic instructions for cell growth. Cancer-causing compounds attach to DNA via chemicals called "adducts." NAC decreases adduct numbers, according to an animal study published in Cancer Research.

Cancer cells also produce their own free radicals, which mutate DNA and signal other cancer cells to keep growing. A study, by Kaikobad Irani, Ph.D., found that antioxidants, particularly NAC, block these cell-growth signals and might inhibit the activity of some types of cancers. In the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, the University of Genoa's De Flora wrote that NAC "appears to possess all four requirements necessary for a cancer chemopreventive agent to be used in humans: low cost; practicality of use (oral administration); efficacy, as documented by eperimental data; and tolerability and very low toxicity, well established in 30 years of clinical use."

NAC may also be of value in preserving muscle tissue in cancer patients, as well as people over overexercise. Wolf Droge, Ph.D., an immunologist at the German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, found that reasonably fit men had a "significant decrease" in muscle mass and an increase in body fat after eight weeks weightlifting. However, when the subjects took 600 mg of NAC three times weekly, their loss of body mass was almost completely prevented.

In sum, NAC is a power immune booster that can protect you against flu symptoms other infections and maybe even lower your risk of cancer. Furthermore, NAC supplements are extraordinarily safe, and recommended doses generally range from 500-1,200 mg daily. Because NAC contains sulfur, capsules have a strong smell. However, they generally do not cause stomach upset or bad breath.

Aids in treatment of Acute Liver Failure In Early Stages Of Disease

Acute liver failure occurs when cells in the liver die quickly, resulting in toxins being released into the bloodstream and brain. Patients often end up in a hepatic coma as a result of toxins not being cleared by the failing liver. Known causes of acute liver failure include autoimmune hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, hepatitis A and B, and acetaminophen poisoning.

In a study published in the September issue of Gastroenterology, researchers found that acute liver failure patients in early stages of hepatic comas, when treated with the medicine N-acetylcysteine (NAC), were nearly 2.5 times more likely to survive than those treated only with a placebo.

"NAC is safe, easy to administer, doesn't require intensive care and can be given in community hospitals," said Dr. William M. Lee, professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern and lead author of the study. "NAC is an excellent treatment for non-acetaminophen acute liver failure if the disease is caught early."

Acute liver failure affects about 2,000 people annually in the U.S., and 50 percent of those cases are caused by acetaminophen poisoning. Until this study, liver transplantation was the only treatment if the failure was from non-acetaminophen causes.

To test NAC's use in non-acetaminophen cases, researchers at 22 sites randomly assigned non-acetaminophen acute liver failure patients by the level of their coma, with those with mild to moderate coma in one group, and patients with more severe coma in the other group. Beginning in 1999 and continuing for eight years, 173 patients received either NAC or a placebo for 72 hours. Doctors recorded patient survival three weeks after they were placed on treatment.

Researchers found that 52 percent of acute liver failure patients in mild to moderate comas survived when treated with NAC, compared to just 30 percent of those treated with only a placebo. In patients experiencing more severe coma, treatment with NAC did not result in a significant difference in survival rates.

"That makes sense because patients with advanced comas typically die or get a transplant within a few days," said Dr. Lee, principal investigator of the Acute Liver Failure Study Group, a national consortium of liver centers formed in 1997 to increase research into the rare disease.

"This study establishes NAC as a treatment for non-acetaminophen acute liver failure patients in mild to moderate coma and provides the first glimmer of hope that something can help these direly ill patients," Dr. Lee said.

He said he will continue to study NAC as a therapy for acute liver failure not caused by acetaminophen poisoning to determine optimal dosing and duration.

Other UT Southwestern researchers involved in the study included Dr. Linda Hynan, professor of clinical sciences and psychiatry; Dr. Anne Larson, associate professor of internal medicine; and Dr. Joan Reisch, professor of clinical sciences and family and community medicine. Other Acute Liver Failure Group investigators involved in the study were from the University of California, Davis; the University of Michigan; Virginia Commonwealth University; University of California, San Francisco; Baylor University Medical Center; University of Nebraska; and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

The study was funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Northwestern Medical Foundation. The N-acetylcysteine used was supplied by Apothecon/Geneva Pharmaceuticals, a division of Bristol Myers Squibb and Cumberland Pharmaceuticals.

Reference: 

1.     http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/090119081346.htm

2.     http://ihnma.com/2011/07/02/new-therapeutic-properties-of-n-acetyl-l-cysteine-found-out/

3.     http://www.advance-health.com/nacetylcysteine.html

4.     http://www.ilovekb.com/research.html

End your problems with varicose veins, poor blood circulation, skin bruises and hemorrhoids

Mega AntiOxidant: Rutin

Rutin is a bioflavonoid. Pure rutin is yellow or yellow-green colored needle-shaped crystal. Rutin is a flavonol glycoside comprised of the quercetin and the disaccharide rutinose (rhamnose and glucose).

Sources

Rutin is found in many plants, fruits and vegetables. The richest source is buckwheat. Rutin is also found in citrus fruits, noni, black tea, apple peel. During digestion much of the rutin is metabolized to its aglycone, quercetin.

Health Benefits of Rutin

One of the most talked about benefits of rutin, however, has to be its help for varicosities. That means it can be helpful to maintain rigid blood vessels, and can help people who bleed or bruise easily from damage. Also, rutin helps the body utilize vitamin C and maintain collagen, two processes that definitely have a positive effect on the body. Collagen helps keep our skin healthy, elastic, and firm. Collagens breakdown has been attributed to wrinkles and lines.

Rutin has strong antioxidant properties. Rutin has also the property to chelate metal ions, such as iron, thereby reducing the Fenton reaction (production damaging oxygen radicals). Rutin also seems to stabilize vitamin C. If rutin is taken together with vitamin C, the activity of ascorbic will be intensified.
Rutin is important because it strengthens capillaries and can help people who bruise or bleed easily. Studies have demonstrated that rutin can help to stop venous edema, that is an early sign of chronic venous disease of the leg.
Rutin has anti-inflammatory effects. Animal studies have shown that rutin has preventive and healing effects.
There are indications that rutin can inhibit some cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions.
Rutin may help to prevent atherogenesis and reduce the cytotoxicity of oxidized LDL-cholesterol.

Rutin is highly recommended for those suffering from hemorrhoids, poor blood circulation, skin bruises and varicose veins. It is best taken as a supplement only if there is a specific need for it. However, if you do not especially need this bioflavonoid for any special reason, incorporating this bioflavonoid as part of your daily multi-vitamin intake will enhance absorption of these vitamins and will definitely make you healthier. 

Rutin inhibits platelet aggregation, as well as decreasing capillary permeability, making the blood thinner and improving circulation. Rutin shows anti-inflammatory activity in some animal and in vitro models. Rutin inhibits aldose reductase activity[citation needed]. Aldose reductase is an enzyme normally present in the eye and elsewhere in the body. It helps change glucose into a sugar alcohol called sorbitol.  Rutin also strengthens the capillaries[citation needed], and, therefore, can reduce the symptoms of haemophilia. It also may help to prevent a common unpleasant-looking venous edema of the legs, however a double-blind clinical study on the effect of buckwheat tea containing rutin did not show a significant effect above placebo. Rutin, as ferulic acid, can reduce the cytotoxicity of oxidized LDL cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. Rutin is also an antioxidant, along with quercetin, acacetin, morin, hispidulin, hesperidin, and naringin; it was found to be the strongest. However, in other trials, the effects of rutin were lower or negligible compared to those of quercetin.

Rutin Dosage

Researches have suggested the effectivity or rutin doses that range from 200 to 600 milligrams. As commercial supplements, however, rutin tablets and rutin capsules are usually sold in 500 mg doses. The amount of rutin you take depends largely on why you are taking the medication. However, a regular dose of 500 mg taken once or twice a day is seen to be safe and effective.

Side Effects of Rutin

Rutin side effects are rare, but a few people have reported having experienced dizziness, heart racing, headache, muscle stiffness, fatigue, diarrhea, and upset stomach after taking rutin. Allergic reactions may occur in a few individuals. Symptoms of allergic reactions are chest pains, skin rashes, swelling and breathing problems. Allergic reactions happen very rarely as well. 

LIVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

Mega Antioxidant: Inositol

Inositol

Inositol is part of the vitamin B complex. It promotes healthy brain development and function, and works closely with choline to move fats out of the heart and liver. Inositol is also vital for hair growth, and, as a component of lecithin, helps to prevent high cholesterol and the hardening of the arteries caused by cholesterol buildup. It has also been said to have a calming effect on the nervous system, and is being studied as a possible treatment for depression, panic attacks, and even Alzheimer’s disease. 

How does the body produce its own supply of inositol? Bacteria in the intestines convert the phytic acid found in plant fibers into inositol, so the body is able to manufacture its own supply of this substance. Inositol is also found in a variety of foods containing myo-inositol, such as cantaloupe, citrus fruits (other than lemons), nuts, oats, rice, beans, chickpeas, liver, pork, veal, whole grains, lecithin granules, and wheat germ. 

Inositol plays an important part in the health of cell membranes especially the specialized cells in the brain, bone marrow, eyes and intestines. The function of the cell membranes is to regulate the contents of the cells, which makes effective functioning possible.

Inositol is said to promote healthy hair, hair growth, and helps in controlling estrogen levels and may assist in preventing breast lumps.

It may also be of benefit in reducing blood cholesterol levels.

Deficiency of inositol

If your intake is not sufficient, you may experience symptoms such as eczema, hair loss, constipation, and abnormalities of the eyes and raised cholesterol.

Dosage

The dosage underneath is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Supplementation is usually 100 mg per day.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

No toxic effects known, but diarrhea has been noted with the intake of very high dosage of inositol.

Best used with

Choline should be taken in the same amount as inositol and the best is to take the entire B group vitamins with it, Vitamin E, vitamin C as well as folic acid and linoleic acid is thought to increase the functioning of inositol.

When more inositol may be required

Taking of long term antibiotics may increase your need for inositol, as well as if you consume a lot of coffee.

Enemy of inositol

Coffee kills this nutrient.

Food sources

Inositol is available from both plant and animal sources. The plant form in which inositol is available is phytic acid, which can bind with minerals and so affect their absorption negatively.

Inositol phosphates have anticancer function.

The body is also able to manufacture this factor. Inositol is available from wheat germ, brewers yeast. bananas, liver, brown rice, oat flakes, nuts, unrefined molasses, raisins and vegetables.

Inositol hexaphosphate (InsP6, phytic acid) is ubiquitous in the plant kingdom and is abundant in cereals and legumes. In much smaller amounts InsP6 and its lower phosphorylated forms (InsP1-5) are contained in most mammalian cells, where they are important in regulating vital cellular functions. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments have suggested striking anticancer potential (preventive as well as therapeutic) for InsP6 with and without inositol. In addition to reduce cell proliferation, InsP6 increases differentiation of malignant cells often resulting in reversion to the normal phenotype. InsP6 is quickly absorbed from the rat stomach and upper intestine and distributed as inositol and InsP1. In vitro it is instantaneously taken up by malignant cells undergoing variable dephosphorylation to inositol and InsP1-5, pointing toward their role in mediating the action of InsP6. Because InsP6 is high in high-fiber diets, our studies also may explain, at least in part, the epidemiologic observation showing high-fiber diets are associated with a lower incidence of certain cancers. Although further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism(s) of this action, inclusion of InsP6 in our strategies for cancer prevention and therapy is warranted.

Other Benefits

1. Relief from depression.

2. Relief from panic attacks.

3. Relief from OCD.

LIVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

Mega Antioxidant Vitamin C

Mega Antioxidant Vitamin C, ascorbic acid (as calcium, potassium, magnesium & zinc ascorbates)

Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant, it is important in reducing free-radical reduction. Even in small amounts vitamin C can protect molecules in the body, such as proteins, lipids (fats), carbohydrates, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from damage from free radicals and reactive oxygen species that can be generated during normal metabolism as well as through exposure to toxins and pollutants.

Vitamin C has many different forms but what really matters is its efficacy and bioavailability.  Bioavailability refers to the degree to which a nutrient becomes available to the target tissue after it has been administered. The gastrointestinal absorption of ascorbic acid occurs through an active transport process, as well as through passive diffusion. 

At low gastrointestinal concentrations of ascorbic acid active transport predominates, while at high gastrointestinal concentrations active transport becomes saturated, leaving only passive diffusion. In theory, slowing down the rate of gastric emptying (e.g., by taking ascorbic acid with food or taking a slow-release form of ascorbic acid) should increase its absorption. The bioavailability of ascorbic acid appears equivalent whether it is in the form of powder, chewable tablets, or non-chewable tablets. Moreover, bioavailability of ascorbic acid from slow-release preparations has not been found to be greater than that of plain ascorbic acid. 


Calcium ascorbate: 1,000 mg of calcium ascorbate generally provides 890-910 mg of ascorbic acid and 90-110 mg of calcium. 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.

Potassium ascorbate: The minimal requirement for potassium is thought to be between 1.6 and 2.0 grams/day. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of potassium, so a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may provide as much as 8 to 11 grams/day. Acute and potentially fatal potassium toxicity (hyperkalemia) is thought to occur at a daily intake of about 18 grams of potassium/day in adults. Individuals on potassium-sparing diuretics and those with renal insufficiency (kidney failure) should avoid significant intake of potassium ascorbate. The purest form of commercially available potassium ascorbate contains 0.175 grams (175 mg) of potassium per gram of ascorbic acid.

Magnesium ascorbate: The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium is 400-420 mg/day for adult men and 310-320 mg/day for adult women. The maximum upper level of intake for magnesium from supplements is 350 mg/day.

Zinc ascorbate: The RDA for zinc is 11 mg/day for adult men and 8 mg/day for adult women. The upper intake level of zinc for adults is 40 mg/day.

How to Take It:

The best way to take vitamin C supplements is 2 - 3 times per day, with meals, depending on the dosage. Some studies suggest that adults should take 250 - 500 mg twice a day for any benefit. Talk to your doctor before taking more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C on a daily basis and before giving vitamin C to a child.

Daily intake of dietary vitamin C (according to U.S. recommended dietary allowances), are listed below.

Pediatric

·         Birth - 6 months: 40 mg

·         Infants 6 - 12 months: 50 mg

·         Children 1 - 3 years: 15 mg

·         Children 4 - 8 years: 25 mg

·         Children 9 - 13 years: 45 mg

·         Adolescent girls 14 - 18 years: 65 mg

·         Adolescent boys 14 - 18 years: 75 mg

Adult

·         Men over 18 years: 90 mg

·         Women over 18 years: 75 mg

·         Breastfeeding women: 120 mg

Because smoking depletes vitamin C, people who smoke generally need an additional 35 mg per day.

The doses recommended to prevent or treat many of the conditions mentioned in the Uses section is often 500 - 1,000 mg per day.

Precautions:

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Vitamin C supplements have a diuretic effect, so drink plenty of fluids when taking them.

Most commercial vitamin C is made from corn. People sensitive to corn should look for alternative sources, such as sago palm.

Vitamin C increases the amount of iron absorbed from foods. People with hemochromatosis (an inherited condition where too much iron builds up in the body) should not take vitamin C supplements.

While vitamin C is generally considered safe because your body gets rid of what it does not use, in high doses (more than 2,000 mg daily) it can cause diarrhea, gas, or stomach upset. If you experience these side effects, lower the dose of vitamin C.

People with kidney problems should talk to their doctor before taking vitamin C.

People who smoke or use nicotine patches may need more vitamin C because nicotine decreases the effectiveness of vitamin C in the body.

Infants born to mothers taking 6,000 mg or more of vitamin C may develop rebound scurvy because their intake of vitamin C drops after birth. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C.

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AND EXPERIENCE TRUE HEALTH

RESET is the answer to OBESITY!!! part 3

MAINTAIN PHASE

The Maintain Phase is the healthy regimen you will follow for the long-term. Not only will you look great, the USANA® Nutritionals, including the Macro-Optimizers, can help you feel great when used consistently every day:

• Replace one meal with a Nutrimeal™ meal replacement shake, fortified with Fibergy® or SoyaMax™ if desired
• Eat one USANA bar’fruits for a snack
• Eat two healthy, low-glycemic meals and one snack
• Continue to develop your fitness level with a consistent exercise program

Take your ESSENTIALS™ or HEALTHPAK 100™ along with any other Nutritionals you have chosen for your needs (see your Independent Associate for more information)

"I started taking USANA® Nutritionals one year ago and as a result I feel healthier and stronger. Despite all that I put my body through, I now feel better than ever. Seeing and feeling the results that USANA products had on me inspired me to become a USANA Independent Associate. Let me tell you–I will never look back!"

–José Antonio Rivera, former WBA welterweight champion of the world

During the Maintain Phase, you may begin to reintroduce low- to moderately low-glycemic carbohydrates, such as whole grains, pasta, and potatoes. No food is prohibited; just remember to eat anything in moderation, keeping an eye on calories and the glycemic index. With these healthy habits forming the foundation of your lifestyle, you will have discovered the difference of true health with USANA.

FAQs

Can I drink diet soda (or other non-caloric beverages) while using RESET?

Yes, in moderation, as long as it does not stimulate your appetite and you are still able to drink the amount of water recommended during RESET.

Can I drink coffee or tea?

Yes, as long as it does not contribute additional calories to your daily intake (meaning no sugar or cream) and you drink the required amount of water.

Can I mix the shakes with skim milk or soymilk instead of water?

During RESET, it is recommended that you mix the shakes with water. Milk or soymilk will increase the caloric level by 250-300 calories per day.

I usually work out for longer periods of time than you recommend. Can I continue with my current exercise routine?

It is strongly discouraged. RESET does not provide enough calories to support prolonged or strenuous exercise.

How often can I repeat RESET?

You may use RESET once every three months to recommit to your new lifestyle. Keep in mind that the purpose of RESET is to help you change your unhealthy eating habits. After you complete the five days, you may choose the Transform or Maintain follow up program, depending on your health and weight loss goals.

Can diabetics follow RESET?

If you have diabetes, we suggest that you consult your physician to determine if this program is appropriate for you. Keep in mind that these are food products that should be treated like any other healthy food. In general, most diabetics are able to follow RESET, depending on how they are currently managing their diabetes. In some cases, it may be necessary to monitor blood glucose levels more regularly, especially if there is a significant change in carbohydrate intake.

Can children follow RESET?

No. The caloric level of RESET is not sufficient to support normal growth and development in children. Children under the age of 18 should not participate in the program unless directed by their physician.

Can I follow RESET if I am taking medication or have a health condition?

We suggest you consult your physician before beginning RESET if you are taking medication, have a specific health condition, or are on a diet specific to certain medical conditions.

Can pregnant and lactating women follow RESET?

No. The caloric level of RESET is not sufficient to support normal fetal growth and development during pregnancy or breast milk production in lactating women. Pregnant or lactating women should not participate in the program unless directed by their physician.

What if I mess up, what should I do?

If you can't resist the cravings and end up eating or drinking something that is not on the RESET program, there's 
no need to give up or start over. Just start where you left off and move forward.

Success stories

Many people have discovered the power of RESET and are enjoying the benefits of making healthier choices. Read on, and let their stories inspire you.

Scott Holt

"I was a biscuit shy of 200 pounds," Scott Holt remembers, "and I needed to get my health under control. So I started with RESET™ and then followed a low-glycemic diet, strictly using the USANA® Macro-Optimzers and the recommended nutritional supplements, adding additional fruits and vegetables for more fiber. I also started walking for 30 minutes every day. In nine weeks I took off 40 pounds and have kept the weight off for over a year. Now I am back on the Macro-Optimizers, I have started jogging 5-7 miles three times a week, and I am continuing with the supplements so I can lose another 15 pounds."

Results not typical. The average weight loss with RESET is 4.5-5 pounds in five days.

Carol Steinitz

"I had been taking the USANA® Essentials, and had been noticing positive changes in my health, so I decided I would like to try RESET™," Carol Steinitz recalls. "I followed the directions and, to my amazement, I wasn't as hungry as I thought I would be. I added an extra Nutrition Bar on the first night, but from then on I felt fine. My energy level remained even, and by the end of the five days, I lost three pounds. Now I use the Macro-Optimizers as meal replacements three or four times a week. I have lost about 14 pounds and I feel so much better. The shakes are delicious! I enjoy my new way of eating and plan to continue my healthy new habits for the rest of my life."

Results not typical. The average weight loss with RESET is 4.5-5 pounds in five days.

Linda Wichman

"When I decided to try RESET™, my weight was at 163," Linda Wichman remembers. "My friend and I did it together, using the buddy system to encourage each other. By the end of the five days, I had lost 10 pounds. I now weigh about 130 pounds, and I continue to drink a shake every day, because I feel so much better throughout the day when I start it off right."

Results not typical. The average weight loss with RESET is 4.5-5 pounds in five days.

David & Vickie Smeltzer

"With a medical condition that makes it very difficult to exercise, it is very challenging for me to lose weight," David Smeltzer remarks. "But when my weight reached nearly 300 pounds, I knew I needed to do something. I started with RESET™, and continue to use USANA's Macro-Optimizers and exercise the best I can. Now, I am 65 pounds lighter and am still working toward my goal weight. When I use the Macro-Optimizers, I feel great; I'm not tired and I don't feel deprived. The changes in my life have been just incredible."

David's wife, Vickie, has also experienced positive results with the Macro-Optimizers. "She went from about 212 pounds to 160; she is like a different person," David notes proudly. "She has gone back to school and is changing her life. The weight loss gave her the confidence to do it."

Results not typical. The average weight loss with RESET is 4.5-5 pounds in five days.

*It is suggested that you take these products to your physician and secure his/ her advice if you intend to change your diet, begin an exercise program, are pregnant, lactating, have allergies, are taking medications, or are under the care of a physician.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The components of the RESET program are foods and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. As with any health or fitness program, a sensible eating plan and regular exercise are required in order to achieve long-term results. Results will vary.

Children under the age of 18 should not participate in the RESET program, except on the advice of their physician and/or dietician.

Health Basics

• 8 grams of dietary fiber
• 15 grams of protein
• Low in saturated fat
• Low glycemic

Nutrimeal Difference

• Free of artificial flavors and sweeteners

Did You Know? 

• Nutrimeal has a low-glycemic index to help reduce carbohydrate cravings and provide sustained energy and greater satiety throughout the day.*

Wild Strawberry Nutrimeal
Fast food or no food. Too often this is a choice we’re forced to make. We know you want exceptional nutrition in everything you eat. We also know that you are incredibly busy. Between work, exercise, and a list of errands a mile long, the last thing you want to do in the morning before you run out the door is cook breakfast! But breakfast is where a healthy lifestyle begins! That’s why USANA developed tasty and convenient Nutrimeal™ shakes. 

They are low glycemic meaning that the ingredients are formulated to produce only small fluctuations in blood glucose levels for sustained energy to keep you satisfied longer. Each serving of Nutrimeal contains 8 grams of dietary fiber, which can help maintain a healthy heart and circulatory system. Each serving also provides 15 grams of soy, whey, and other proteins. Soy helps maintain cardiovascular health, diastolic blood pressure, and HDL-cholesterol levels, provided they are healthy to begin with. Soy protein is a complete protein, containing all of the essential amino acids in optimal ratios and in a highly digestible form. Whey protein, which is also easily digestible, is an excellent source of amino acids essential for building a healthy body. Try the sweet flavor of Wild Strawberry Nutrimeal for breakfast, or any time you want a healthy meal you shake!

Total Body Health

Some products simply can’t be placed into a single body system category. Additional trace minerals, mixed carotenoids, bioflavanoids, and other phytochemicals help make these products the premier line of nutritional supplements. Our Total Body Healthproducts provide a comprehensive range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for daily nutritional support.

Healthy Energy

Cleaner. Smarter. Stronger. OurHealthy Energy products provide a scientific alternative to traditional crash-and-burn energy drinks.

Healthy Weight

It’s no secret that the key to effective weight loss is making positive changes in diet and exercise. However, making those healthy lifestyle changes can often seem like an insurmountable task. Our Healthy Weight Management products are designed to jumpstart healthy eating habits and help individuals begin to make a clean break from unhealthy food.

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