All posts by Eleanor Wilson

Colosan, Detoxification, Green Magma

Take on the toxins and win: how to detox – and why you should

The idea of a ‘detox’ is something many of us are familiar with, thanks to it having become trendy with celebrities and so a term that’s bandied about in the media all the time. But how many of us really know what it involves and, more importantly, why it can do us so much good?

In simple terms, a detox – short for ‘detoxification’ – is a process where someone makes lifestyle choices and changes to remove toxins from their body. It often involves abstaining from things that tend to harm the body’s functions in order to optimise how they work.

Toxins

So what exactly are toxins? By and large, they’re all the chemicals and metals, artificial food ingredients, pesticides and pollutants that find their way into the body and cause it harm1. Indeed, it’s likely the health issues many people suffer from can be traced back to the toxins that have built up in their bodies over time2, 3, 4.

How so? Well, whether you like it or not, it’s pretty much impossible to protect yourself from every single toxin out there; that’s because they’re in all the water, food and air we consume. But, as much as it can, your body does counteract their harmful effects through its own natural detoxification processes. And through regular cleansing – or detoxification – you can aid these processes in their work.

How your body detoxes

Of all the body’s systems (for instance, the respiratory and digestive systems), it’s the excretory system that’s involved in detoxification the most – through, yes, defecation and urination. And the main organs involved in this system are the large intestine, the kidneys, the liver, the lungs and the skin5.

The skin? Yes, it eliminates toxins through sweat glands6. Meanwhile, the liver filters general waste, hormones, drugs and other foreign bodies7, the lungs are pivotal in removing carbon dioxide (through us breathing out)8, the kidneys filter the blood, aiding waste removal via urination9 and, finally, the large intestine (after absorbing water and nutrients from food) then converts the remaining waste into stool, which is expelled through the anus10. When it comes down to it, your body’s working to detoxify itself every second of every day – indeed, even your brain actively flushes out toxins during your hours spent in the land of nod11.

How you can detox

Surely then, understanding the importance of detoxification – and how the body does it – underlines the onus on us to help out our bodies in this process. So how exactly can we?

  • Exercise and relax – exercising makes you sweat, thus releasing toxins through the skin, while relaxation (and even meditation) combine with exercise to reduce stress, which just like harmful chemicals can be toxic to us
  • Purify the air – attempting to control the air in your home and work areas is far from a bad idea because good ventilation helps eradicate smoke, fumes, mould, pet dander and micro-organisms from getting into our lungs and harming us; if air-purification equipment’s a bit pricey for you (or not possible at work) then you could turn to house plants, which are great at filtering the air and removing toxins12
  • Drink water – good old H2O is a hugely powerful weapon in your detoxification arsenal, as much because your body’s most fundamental processes can’t take place without it13; moreover, water’s critical to the creation of saliva and sweat and ensuring waste removal takes place14
  • Healthy diet – be aware that genetically modified (GMO) foods, pesticides and processed foods may contain harmful toxins, so opt instead for the likes of fresh juices, garlic, raw nuts, seeds, broccoli, lemon, mung beans, sprouts and other organic fruit and veg, all of which are great for detoxing.

Supplementation

Finally, another option to help you detox is supplementation. Remember that, when turning to detox supplements, you’re looking to focus on products that’ll help remove harmful organisms, chemicals and toxic metals and, ideally, aid the cleansing of your colon, liver and kidneys. To that end, the following supplements are all recommended and available through The Finchley Clinic:

9-day-detox-pack9 Day Detox (capsules) – provides a blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and liver digestive nutrients all in a handy blister strip

colosan-capsulesColosan (120 or 40 capsules/ powder) – a magnesium oxygen product that gently releases oxygen into the digestive tract to cleanse the bowel and ease constipation; may also help with candida and parasites

green-magmaGreen Magma (Barley Grass) (300g, 150g, 80g or 30g powder/ 250 tablets) – regular supplementation may improve digestion, increase energy and aid detoxification

ORËÁORËÁ (formerly ZNatural) (60ml and 30ml) – a natural toxin remover for the whole body, including the blood, organs, glands and cellular tissue.

 

References:

  1. ‘What You Know Can Help You – An Introduction to Toxic Substances’. New York Department of Health. New York State, Oct 2013.
  2. ‘Causes of Food Poisoning’. Foodsafety.gov. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, n.d.
  3. ‘National Biomonitoring Program: Toxins’. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 Dec 2012.
  4. ‘Toxic Substances Portal: Asbestos’. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 Mar 2011.
  5. ‘Reference Terms: Excretory System’. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, n.d. Web. 16 Mar 2016.
  6. Sears M. E., Kerr K. J. and Bray, R. I. ‘Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury in Sweat: A Systematic Review’. Journal of Environmental and Public Health 2012 (2012): 184745. PMC.
  7. ‘Normal Liver Physiology’. Brown University Division of Biology and Medicine. Brown University, n.d.
  8. ‘What Are the Lungs?’ National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. National Institutes of Health, 17 July 2012.
  9. ‘Large Intestine (colon)’. MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Dec. 2015.
  10. ‘Aging Changes in the Kidneys and Bladder: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia’.MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Oct 2014.
  11. ‘Brain May Flush out Toxins during Sleep | National Institutes of Health (NIH)’.National Institutes of Health. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 17 Oct 2013.
  12. Luz C. ‘Planting Healthier Indoor Air’. Environmental Health Perspectives 119. 10 (2011): a426–a427. PMC.
  13. ‘Water – a Vital Nutrient’. Better Health Channel. Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, May 2014.
  14. ‘Water in Diet: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia’. MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 July 2015.
Antioxidant Supreme, Selenium, selenium supplements

Super selenium – a crucial nutrient for us

Back in the summer, you may have read an article on this blog about ‘heavy metals’ (e.g. mercury, lead and cadmium) and why they’re toxic to the human body. Well, all things being equal, there are also, of course, metals and similar nutrients that the human body can’t do without – the likes of iron, calcium and magnesium. One such nutrient that belongs in this group but isn’t talked about as much as the other three is selenium.

Derived from metal sulphide ores, selenium is a chemical element that can be found on the periodic table (symbol ‘Se’; atomic number ‘34’); its biggest commercial uses nowadays being in glassmaking and pigment creation. But what about selenium and the human body? Some experts may point out that it’s dangerous for us to consume too much selenium; yet, while that’s true (and the fact you’d have to consume it in huge amounts to do you serious harm), there’s no question it’s critically important for your body to function properly and effectively.

Role in the body

So what exactly does selenium do? Specifically, it plays a crucial role in:

  • Reproductive health1 – in the male body, the selenium level in the testes rises during puberty, while in the female body, low levels of selenium may help cause infertility2
  • Thyroid health – the nutrient combines with iodine to support the thyroid; together with iodine it helps produce the gland’s hormones3, 4, while it’s also found in enzymes that regulate these hormones5
  • DNA synthesis – studies suggest selenium can potentially enhance DNA’s capacity to repair itself6, owing to the nutrient’s natural association with antioxidants whose job it is to fight free radicals
  • Protect the body against oxidative damage – being a great support to antioxidants throughout the body, selenium aids in reducing oxidative damage and the major health problems this can lead to7
  • Combining with selenoprotein enzymes to help regulate important physiological processes8.

Deficiency

Quite clearly then, selenium’s a nutrient that our bodies just can’t do without. Indeed, if the selenium levels in your body drop too low then there’s a chance you could develop disorders affecting your muscular, cardiovascular, immunity, neurological or endocrine systems. Obviously that’s a worrying thought. But what signs should you look out for…?

  • Memory issues – short-term (or even long-term) memory difficulties may not merely be a sign of ageing; low levels of selenium could interfere with your cognitive function, which includes concentration and analytical skills, as well as memory9
  • Tiredness – without adequate selenium in your body, you risk developing hypothyroidism, which brings symptoms such as lethargy, depression and weight gain10
  • Viruses and infections – as selenium supports the immune system, it plays a role in helping to build up the body’s natural defence against colds, flu and other viruses and infections; moreover, hypothyroidism can jeopardise the efficacy of the immune system, not least because (thanks to its antioxidant nature) selenium supports communication between the immune system and the body’s cells11
  • Wound healing issues – if you’ve got a cut or bruise and it seems to be taking forever to heal, yes, it could be because your selenium levels are particularly low; being an antioxidant, the nutrient aids cell-tissue-repair, which is why studies point to selenium helping to reduce the time it takes for wounds to heal12

Diet

Obviously then, as selenium performs such a crucial role in our bodies, it’s important we make sure it’s genuinely present in our individual diets. Selenium can be found in many different foods – both seafoods and organ meats (or offal) are both particularly rich in the nutrient, while dairy products, cereals/ grain foods and muscle meats (essentially lean meats) also contain their fair share.

However, it should be recognised that not everyone does – or is able to – get enough selenium through their diet on its own. So, if you’re not getting enough through food, you may want to consider trying selenium supplements.

Supplements

The following supplements are available through The Finchley Clinic – needless to say we highly recommend them all:

nutrisorb-selenium

Nutrisorb Selenium (15ml) – ideal for helping to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage

 

selenium

Selenium 200mcg (60 capsules) – supports the immune system and provides the body with important antioxidants

selenium-complex

 

Selenium Complex (60 tablets) – contains two different forms of yeast free selenium for antioxidant support and vitamins B2 and B6 for additional nutritional value.

References:

1 Mistry, H. D., Broughton-Pipkin, F., Redman, C. W. G. and Poston, L. ‘Selenium in Reproductive Health’. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 206.1 (2012): 21-30. PubMed.

2 Bedwal, R. S. and Bahuguna, A. ‘Zinc, Copper and Selenium in Reproduction’. Experientia 50.7 (1994): 626-40. PubMed.

3 Drutel, A., Archambeaud, F. and Caron, P. ‘Selenium and the Thyroid Gland: More Good News for Clinicians’. Clin Endocrinol Clinical Endocrinology 78.2 (2013): 155-64. PubMed.

4 Nussey, S. and Whitehead S. ‘Endocrinology: An Integrated Approach’. Oxford: BIOS Scientific Publishers; 2001. Chapter 3, The thyroid gland.

5 ‘Iodine’. Micronutrient Information Center. Oregon State, 2001.

6 Soumen, B. et al. ‘Does a Role for Selenium in DNA Damage Repair Explain Apparent Controversies in Its Use in Chemoprevention?’ Mutagenesis 28.2 (2013): 127–134. PMC.

7 Battin E. E. and Brumaghim J. L. ‘Antioxidant activity of sulfur and selenium: a review of reactive oxygen species scavenging, glutathione peroxidase, and metal-binding antioxidant mechanisms’. Cell Biochem Biophys. 2009; 55 (1): 1-23. doi: 10.1007/s12013-009-9054-7.

8 Bellinger, F. P., Raman, A. V., Reeves, A. M. and Berry, M. J. ‘Regulation and function of selenoproteins in human disease’. Biochem J. Jul 29 2009; 422 (1): 11-22.

9 Pillai R., Uyehara-Lock J. H. and Bellinger F. P. ‘Selenium and selenoprotein function in brain disorders’. IUBMB Life. 25 Mar 2014. doi: 10.1002/iub.1262.

10 Moreno-Reyes, R., Suetens, C., Mathieu, F., Begaux, F., Zhu, D., Rivera, M. T., Boelaert, M., Nève, J., Perlmutter, N. and Vanderpas, J. ‘Kashin-Beck Osteoarthropathy in Rural Tibet in Relation to Selenium and Iodine Status’. New England Journal of Medicine. 1998; 339:1112-1120. DOI: 10.1056/NEJM199810153391604

11 Arthur, J. R., McKenzie, R. C., and Beckett, G. J. ‘Selenium in the Immune System’. The Journal of Nutrition. May 1 2003. vol. 133 no. 5 14575-14595.

12 Gumustekin, K., Seven, B., Karabulut, N., Aktas, O., Gursan, N., Aslan, S., Keles, M., Varoglu, E. and Dane S. ‘Effects of sleep deprivation, nicotine, and selenium on wound healing in rats’. International Journal of Neuroscience. Nov 2004; 114 (11): 1433-42.

Black Cohosh Menopause Relief, Female Fuzion, Femforte Balance, Menopause Help, Menophase, Women’s health

Hot flushes and supplements: how to treat the effects of the menopause

Few women look forward to it, some dread it and many find it a challenging interference in living their everyday lives – it’s ‘the change’ or the menopause. And it’s worth talking about here because, while it inevitably affects the majority of woman in middle-age, the individual experience can vary a great deal and there are things you can do to alleviate its most dramatic symptoms – including looking to supplementation.

Also referred to as ‘the change of life’, the menopause is the biological alteration that happens in a woman’s body so she no longer has periods. The average age at which it occurs is 51 years-old – for most women, it occurs between 45 and 55 years-old1.

What happens is there’s change in the balance of the female body’s sex hormones, ensuring periods no longer occur. This is because the ovaries stop producing enough of the hormone oestrogen to release an egg each month.

Premature menopause

Now, when they reach middle-age, many women are only too aware they’ll soon enter menopause and so are also aware of what’s likely to happen to their bodies and many of the effects they’ll experience. However, there are occasions when menopause happens to women younger than the average age (or age range) mentioned above. Indeed, about one in 100 women under the age of 40 experiences it1.

In many cases, there’s no clear cause for premature menopause – or premature ovarian insufficiency, as it’s sometimes called. Although, it may happen as a result of surgery to remove ovaries (oophorectomy), specific breast cancer treatments or the general cancer treatments that are chemotherapy and radiotherapy1. Moreover, underlying medical conditions like Down’s syndrome or Addison’s disease may be ultimately responsible1.

Symptoms

So what symptoms should either middle-aged or younger women expect when their menopause occurs? Well, sometimes starting months (or even years) before your periods cease and possibly continuing up to four years (or more) following your final period, the following symptoms can vary a great deal in severity, depending on individual experience:

  • Hot flushes – possibly caused by hormone changes affecting the body’s temperature control, they’re experienced by three in four menopausal women2
  • Night sweats – alternatively referred to as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, night sweating can potentially (and embarrassingly) drench bedclothes1
  • Mood swings and anxiety1
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)1
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering things1
  • Vaginal dryness and irritability – otherwise known as atrophic vaginitis, it can lead to a burning sensation, reduced sex drive and possibly repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs)3.

Health problems

The loss of oestrogen associated with menopause has been linked to a number of health problems that become more common as women age. After menopause, women are more likely to develop:

  • Osteoporosis1
  • Heart disease1
  • Bladder and bowel issues1
  • Increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease1
  • Increased wrinkling of the skin and less elasticity 1
  • Reduced muscle tone/ power1
  • Vision deterioration – and possibly cataracts (clouding of the eye lens)1

It should be pointed out, however, that just because a woman has been through menopause, she won’t definitely develop any (or certainly all) of the above disorders – so there’s no need for concern here; it’s just more likely a woman might develop them than before menopause.

Easing symptoms

The reality is that, happily, a lot of women go through their menopause experiencing little discomfort, but for others that’s not the case. Indeed, in some cases, menopause-related symptoms can be so severe that sufferers seek treatment to help ease their effects on everyday life. Such treatments include:

  • Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet and getting regular exercise – remaining fit and strong and keeping a sensible weight can help alleviate some symptoms1
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – replaces the oestrogen lost via tablets, gels, skin patches and implants1
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – a form of talking therapy that helps some who suffer from low mood and anxiety1
  • Vaginal oestrogen treatment – usually in the form of creams, lubricants and moisturisers to treat vaginal dryness1

Supplements

Alternatively, you may find supplementation an easier and more suitable way to treat the effects of menopause. All of the following menopause supplements are available through The Finchley Clinic:

black-cohosh-menopause-relief

Black Cohosh Menopause Relief (30 tablets) – derived from a plant used for traditional medicinal use by indigenous American people, it can be taken to relieve hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, nervous irritability and restlessness

menophase-90-capsules

Menophase (90 and 30 capsules) – great for health, wellbeing, vitality, relaxation and energy production during the menopausal years; blends vitamins and minerals with added botanicals, as well as additional Vitamin E to protect against age-accelerating free radical damage

femguard

FemGuard (Multinutrient for Menopause) (90 capsules) – a comprehensive, high-power product containing high ratios of nutrients to support female hormonal balance, bone density and cardiovascular health

femforte-balance

Femforte Balance (60 capsules) – a combination of botanical extracts to help balance oestrogen levels and detoxify potent oestrogens associated with illness; ideal for menopause, PMS and menstrual irregularity

female-fuzion

Female Fuzion (2floz) – assists the female body in regulating proper hormone balance for superior vitality, energy, sex drive and general wellness.

References

1 http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/Pages/Introduction.aspx

2 http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/menopause/Pages/hot-flushes.aspx

3 http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/dry-vagina/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Colosan, Digestive Enzyme, Oxy-Powder, Threelac and Fivelac

Mind over gut matters? How mental and gastrointestinal health are linked

Have you ever found yourself feeling low when suffering from diarrhoea? Or down in the dumps following a bout of abdominal pain or stomach cramps? Or has it struck you that you may feel more depressed than you’d expect along with a bit of digestive trouble? Well, research suggests this wouldn’t actually be surprising – and is probably very normal – because there are strong links between digestive and mental health.

Indeed, by studying gut microbiota (the community of micro-organisms found in the gut), experts have established significant connections between bacterial imbalance in this part of the body and mood and behavioural issues.

From the brain to the gut – and vice versa

There are three specific ways in which the brain connects directly with the gastrointestinal part of our bodies:

• The vagus nerve – this travels from the brain stem, via the neck and thorax, straight to the abdomen; it helps regulate heart rate, speech, sweating, and various gut functions via the supply of motor parasympathetic fibres to all organs apart from adrenal glands1

• The enteric nervous system – often called a ‘second brain’, owing to its capacity to autonomously communicate and connect with the central nervous system via the vagus nerve, this system can feature up to 600 million neurons2 that influence muscle activity in the gut wall and gland secretions of the likes of stomach acid, digestive enzymes and mucus3

• The gut-brain axis – by linking the brain’s emotional and cognitive centres with the intestine’s peripheral functions, this enables bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous systems4.

Gut bacteria influencing mental health

So, owing to these direct links between the gastrointestinal part of the body and the brain, it’s been found that gut microbiota can – and does – influence brain chemistry, moods and behaviour5. How? Well, animal studies have shown there’s strong proof that micro-organisms in the gut activate the vagus nerve, thus have the ability to influence how the brain sets behaviour6. Could this be why sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – thus sufferers of symptoms like gas, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and cramping – often experience depression and anxiety? Quite possibly.

On a more positive note, the microbiota of the gut play a significant role in influencing the generation and application of serotonin and dopamine – serotonin being a ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter that (along with dopamine) is important in establishing happiness and well-being. Indeed, you may be surprised to learn that 90% of serotonin in the body is in the gut, ensuring it’s a key regulator of gastrointestinal motility7.

Improving gut flora through diet – and more

Owing to all the evidence then – and, frankly, just plain common sense – it’s in the interest of all of us to look after our gut as much as we can; a healthy digestive system results in a healthy mind – and vice versa. Indeed, the condition of gut microbiota and a healthy gastrointestinal tract can be positively enhanced by a good diet8. And that means plenty of fruits and vegetables, plus fermented foods like yoghurt and kefir. Gut microbiota (the sort that’s good for us) love probiotics.

In fact, a study conducted in 2014 found that, by receiving a strain of probiotics, a group of rats enjoyed something of a therapeutic effect on the depressive and anxious symptoms they were suffering from, as well as a ‘normalisation of their immune response’9.

And if, for any reason, you may struggle to imbed the above suggested food types into your diet then you can follow the example of the aforementioned rats by getting your gut-friendly nutrients via supplementation. You might find one or more of the following gut health supplements available through The Finchley Clinic suit you perfectly – they do for many of our customers:

oxy-powder-120-capsules

Oxy-Powder (120 capsules) – a great colon cleansing product, it offers a slow release of mono-atomic oxygen to ensure an inhospitable environment for harmful bacteria and other toxic matter, enabling free rein for the friendly bacteria needed for proper digestive and intestinal health

threelac-caps

Threelac (60 sachets or 120 capsules) – contains Bacillus coagulans (a probiotic organism that may help solve occasional digestion and stomach issues), Bacillus subtilis (may aid removal of bad flora from the intestines) and Enterococcus faecalis (a major lactic acid bacteria group genus that’s extremely good for the gut); Threelac works very well with other supplements we sell

Colosan (120 and 40 capsules and in powder form) – a magnesium oxide powder that doesn’t just cleanse the colon but oxygenates it too

active-digestive-enzymes

Active Digestive Enzymes (90 capsules) – aids general good nutrient uptake and could help someone looking to cleanse their colon of candida to improve food absorption; great for sufferers of lactose intolerance, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating and gas, IBS and heart burn, and nicely complements Threelac.

References:

1. ‘The Vagus Nerve’. Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Division. Stritch School of Medicine.
2. Furness J. B., Callaghan B. P., Rivera L. R. and Cho H. J. ‘The enteric nervous system and gastrointestinal innervation: integrated local and central control’. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. 2014; 817:39-71.
3. Purves D., Augustine G. J., Fitzpatrick D. et al. ‘The Enteric Nervous System’. Neuroscience, 2nd Edition, Sinauer Associates; 2001.
4. Carabotti M., Scirocco A., Maselli M. A. and Severi C. ‘The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems’. Ann Gastroenerology. Apr-Jun 2015.
5. Dinan T. G. and Cryan J. F. ‘Melancholic microbes: a link between gut microbiota and depression?’ Neurogastroenterology and Motility. Sept 2013.
6. Forsythe P., Bienenstock J. and Kunze W. A. ‘Vagal pathways for microbiome-brain-gut-axis communication’. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. 2014.
7. Reigstad C. S., Salmonson C. E., Rainey J. F., Szurszewski J. H., Linden D. R., Sonnenburg J. L., Farrugia G. and Kashyap P. C. ‘Gut microbes promote colonic serotonin production through an effect of short-chain fatty acids on enterochromaffin cells’. FASEB J. Apr 2015.
8. Dash S., Clarke G., Berk M. and Jacka F. N. ‘The gut microbiome and diet in psychiatry: focus on depression’. Current Opinion in Psychiatry. Jan 2015: 28(1):1-6.
9. Slyepchenko A., Carvalho A. F., Cha D. S., Kasper S. and McIntyre R. S. ‘Gut emotions – mechanisms of action of probiotics as novel therapeutic targets for depression and anxiety disorders’. CNS & Neurological Disorders Drug Targets. 2014:13.

Detoxification

Why nutrition’s key to keeping your thyroid fit and healthy

Did you know that you – in fact, every one of us – wear a bow-tie on the inside of our necks? It’s not a real bow-tie, of course, it’s a critically important, hormone-producing gland that sits in front of the throat and is butterfly-shaped. It’s called the thyroid.

Like other glands that generate hormones, the thyroid is part of the body’s endocrine system – and, in particular, its work is overseen by the pituitary gland to be found at the base of the brain. It’s the endocrine system that’s responsible for the overall creation and secretion of hormones into the bloodstream, so they’re transported to the body’s organs. As such, it could be said then to act as a kind of messaging system (with hormones as its chemical messengers), helping to direct and regulate growth, development and reproduction processes.

For its part, the thyroid produces and secretes the hormones triiodothyronine (or T3) and thyroxine (or T4), which together are essential for the body to effectively regulate growth, development and metabolism1. T3 is, in fact, a rarer, refined version of T4; the latter accounting for 80% of the thyroid’s hormone production2.

More specifically, T3 and T4 are relied on to signal when cells should convert the oxygen and calories in them into energy. Although the thyroid releases both hormones constantly, it will allow for extra spurts of them when cells especially need them – for instance, if you’re pregnant, the thyroid will regularly boost T3 and T4 production and distribution to meet your and your baby’s energy demands.

Thyroid disorders

Evidently then, the thyroid plays a crucially important role in maintaining our everyday health and shaping that of our future. In which case, thyroid disorders can be very bad news. The trouble is, though, diagnosing one isn’t easy – quite different disorders can possess very similar symptoms. Nonetheless, if you feel you may be suffering from a thyroid disorder, you should see a healthcare professional immediately. Such disorders include:

  • Hypothyroidism – basically an underactive thyroid, thus resulting in low levels of T3 and T4 and causing symptoms such as muscle and joint pain, weight gain, unnatural cold sensibility, fatigue, weakness, slowed heart rate, constipation, heavy/ irregular menstruation and potential hair loss and depression3; young children and fetuses can be especially susceptible to this disorder
  • Hyperthyroidism – it may sound very similar to hypothyroidism, but it couldn’t be more different, as it’s the opposite, an overactive thyroid that creates too much T3 and T4; thus its symptoms can include diarrhoea, tremors, high blood pressure, heart palpitations, irregular menstruation, insomnia and potential hair loss3
  • Graves’ Disease – most common in women over 20-years-old4, it’s an autoimmune condition that sees the immune system mistakenly attack the thyroid, inflame it and cause it to overproduce hormones, thus potentially bringing on hyperthyroidism
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid that may have come about through viral infection, drug reaction, trauma or an immune disorder5
  • Goitre – usually caused by iodine deficiency, this is a swollen enlargement of the thyroid that’s often visible from the outside of the neck6
  • Thyroid nodule – a small growth or lump in the thyroid; few are cancerous7.

Diet and nutrition

Like everything in your body, for your thyroid to operate as it should it needs feeding – it needs nutrition. Quite simply, if it’s malnourished, it will malfunction. Again, as with most other parts of the body, your thyroid requires specific nutrients to remain healthy, but you should be able to glean most of them through a good, sensible, balanced diet – note: vegetarians and vegans may wish to make careful provision here, as most thyroid-friendly nutrients are derived through animal (and animal-related) consumption. The nutrients in question are:

  • Iodine – the most essential thyroid nutrient, as T4 and T3 are literally made from it, indeed our development, growth and metabolism can be devastated by iodine deficiency8; perhaps the best sources for it are seafood and seaweed
  • Selenium – another very important micronutrient, it features highly in many seafoods, meats, dairy products and brazil nuts, as well as beans, spinach and brown rice9
  • Curcumin – the yellow chemical that gives ginger-related plant turmeric its colour, curcumin, so studies suggest, may help prevent cancer cells growing in the thyroid10, 11, while turmeric itself may aid in reducing the chance of goitres forming12
  • Iron and zinc – two highly important nutrients for the body in general, these two – for the thyroid specifically – help the gland process iodine (iron) and help receptors identify hormonal signals (zinc).

Supplements

Unfortunately, for one reason or another, not all of us are capable of adjusting our diets to get the above nutrients – for instance, some people have unavoidable issues with marine-sourced food owing to allergies. In which case, you can always turn to supplementation to boost your diet with thyroid-aiding nutrients. All the following thyroid health supplements can be purchased through us at The Finchley Clinic:

detoxadine

Detoxadine (1 fl oz bottle) – a diet-transformative version of iodine in the form of a daily supplement that’s gentle on the stomach; helps balance iodine levels and supports thyroid health

 

kelp-formula

Kelp Formula (60 capsules) – designed specifically to aid thyroid maintenance, this supplement’s key ingredient kelp (a type of seaweed) is a fine source of iodine; also contains six other herbs

TH Intensive (powder/ 28, 14 and single sachets) – a high-potency combination of iodine and selenium to support normal thyroid function, as well as high-potency amino acids, nutrients and antioxidants; great taste

thyroid-support-formula

Thyroid Support Formula (60 capsules) – comprises tyrosine and other key vitamins and minerals to help enable thyroid hormone production and conversion of T3 and T4; combines very well with Kelp Formula.

References:

  1. ‘How Does the Thyroid Work?’. PubMed Health. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Jan 2015.
  2. Sapin, R. and Schlienger, J. L. ‘Thyroxine (T4) and Tri-Iodothyronine (T3) Determinations: Techniques and Value in the Assessment of Thyroid Function’. Annales de Biologie Clinique, vol. 61, no. 4, 14 Aug. 2003, pp. 411–20.
  3. ‘Hypothyroidism’. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 23 Apr 2015.
  4. ‘Grave’s Disease’. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 3 Feb 2016.
  5. ‘Thyroiditis’. University of Maryland Medical Center, 22 Mar 2014.
  6. ‘Goiter – simple’. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 23 Apr 2015.
  7. ‘Thyroid nodule’. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 19 Apr 2016.
  8. Kapil, U. ‘Health Consequences of Iodine Deficiency’. Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal 7.3 (2007): 267–272. Print.
  9. ‘Office of Dietary Supplements – Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Selenium’. National Institute of Health, USA.gov, 11 Feb 2016.
  10. Zhang, C. Y. et al. ‘Curcumin Inhibits Invasion and Metastasis in K1 Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells’. Food Chemistry, vol. 139, 9 Apr 2013, pp. 1021–8.
  11. Hutchins-Wolfbrandt, A. and Mistry, A. M. ‘Dietary Turmeric Potentially Reduces the Risk of Cancer’. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention: APJCP, vol. 12, no. 12, 1 Jan 2011, pp. 3169–73.
  12. Jawa, A. et al. ‘Turmeric Use Is Associated with Reduced Goitrogenesis: Thyroid Disorder Prevalence in Pakistan (THYPAK) Study’. Indian Journal of Endocrinology.
Alpha vegicaps, BioCardio, Heart health, Vitamin K2, Vitamins & Minerals

Hale and hearty: the route to a healthy heart

Only a fool would decry the importance of the heart to their body and thus the importance of a fit heart to their overall health. After all, given it pumps blood throughout the body, supplying organs and cells with all-important oxygen, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients and, at the same time, removes from them toxic carbon dioxide, the heart’s arguably the most crucial muscle there is. A weak heart makes for a weak person; a heart that doesn’t work means you won’t work, plain and simple.

And yet, despite all that, how many of us properly look after our hearts? Not enough of us, that’s for sure. Otherwise there’d be far fewer cases of heart disease and general ill-health; especially among those of a certain age.

Dos and don’ts

So what should we all do – and, more than that, what’s easy for the vast majority of us to do – to try and ensure our hearts remain healthy? Well, here are some simple steps most of us should start to follow, for those who don’t already…

  • Exercise regularly – don’t forget that the heart’s a muscle, therefore it should be worked
  • avoid toxins especially bad for the heart (such as pesticides, insecticides and heavy metals like mercury and lead)
  • stop smoking – aside from the carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke that reduces blood oxygen levels, tobacco damages your arteries’ lining, thanks to the build-up of the fatty material atheroma, which narrows the arteries and causes anginas, heart attacks and strokes
  • avoid high-fat foods and too many fizzy drinks that feature artificial sweeteners

Get your diet right

Away from the aforementioned ways you should and shouldn’t live your life to keep your heart functioning as it should, there are also specific foods you can introduce into your diet. Just eating more of the following could be a big help…

  • Salmon – thanks to the Omega-3 fatty acids it contains, salmon’s a fine source for Vitamin D, thus can help address the low levels of the vitamin in too many adults, which has been long associated with heart problems and, as a consequence, premature death1
  • Broccoli – this and other cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, kale and sprouts) are widely considered to help cut the risk of cardiovascular disease2; indeed, a recent study suggests they lower the chance of cardiac-associated death more than other vegetables and fruits3. Moreover, research in the last few years has found that a compound in broccoli (indole-3-carbinol or I3C) appears to counteract aspects of heart failure, thus it may provide cardiac protection4
  • Asparagus – protection of the cardiovascular system (the body’s system responsible for blood circulation) is aided by phenolic acids, which commonly occur in asparagus; this is because these acids play a big role in making sure detoxifying enzymes help remove drugs and other toxins from the system5
  • Chickpeas – not only do chickpeas contain the aforementioned heart-health-friendly Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as incredibly nutritious vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium, but also a study has revealed they can help lower cholesterol levels, thus easing the workload of and pressure on the heart6
  • Spinach – Popeye was certainly on to something, for just a single helping of spinach should deliver 20% of your daily recommended amount of magnesium, the mineral that’s absolutely key to achieving proper muscle function, healthy blood sugar levels and favourable blood pressure7
  • Almonds – research suggests that consuming almonds is better for balancing cholesterol than cutting saturated fats from your diet (although the latter’s recommended too), in addition to the fatty acids they contain contributing to good cardiovascular health8
  • Olives – the Mediterranean diet has long been considered good for the heart, not least because it includes olives and olive oil, with their Omega-3 fatty acids, phenolic acids and antioxidant properties; thus helping to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease9.

Heart-health supplements

However, if for some reason, you might find it difficult to integrate any of the above foods into your diet or (perhaps because of pre-existing issues) you’re unable to exercise regularly or can’t prevent being exposed to heart-harming toxins, then you may consider turning to the following supplements to improve the health and efficacy of your heart. They’re all available from The Finchley Clinic – in fact, we recommend them whether you’re able to follow the previous steps in this article or not…

alpha-90-vegicaps

Alpha vegicaps (90 and 30 capsules) – cardio-protective and great for your general heart-health, this supplement’s major ingredients are alpha lipoic acid (an antioxidant excellent at countering free radicals) and acetyl L-carnitine (an amino acid highly effective in the fat metabolism process)

biocardio

Bio Cardio (300ml) – delicious thanks to its essential of orange oil flavour, this liquid-based supplement contains the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA ensuring that, when combined with a low fat diet, fish oils and plant sterols, there’s a strong likelihood it’ll help reduce cholesterol levels and support platelet integrity

vitamin-k2-30-tablets

Vitamin K2 (60 and 30 tablets) – while, on its own, Vitamin K aids normal blood clotting and helps keep bones strong and healthy, this particular form of the vitamin (K2) appears to be a great contributor to good heart-health, aiding effective blood circulation.

References:

  1. Thomas G. N., ó Hartaigh B., Bosch J. A., Pilz S., Loerbroks A., Kleber M. E., Fischer J. E., Grammer T. B., Böhm B. O. and März W. ‘Vitamin D levels predict all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality in subjects with the metabolic syndrome: the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) Study’. Diabetes Care. May 2012; 35(5): 1158-64. doi: 10.2337/dc11-1714.
  1. Edmands W. M., Beckonert O. P., Stella C., Campbell A., Lake B. G., Lindon J. C., Holmes E. and Gooderham N. J. ‘Identification of human urinary biomarkers of cruciferous vegetable consumption by metabonomic profiling’. J Proteome Res. Oct 7 2011; 10(10): 4513-21. doi: 10.1021/pr200326k.
  1. Zhang X., Shu X. O., Xiang Y. B., Yang G., Li H., Gao J., Cai H., Gao Y. T. and Zheng W. ‘Cruciferous vegetable consumption is associated with a reduced risk of total and cardiovascular disease mortality’. Am J Clin Nutr. Jul 2011; 94(1): 240-6. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.009340.
  1. Deng W., Zong J., Bian Z., Zhou H., Yuan Y., Zhang R., Guo H., Zhang Y., Shen D., Li H. and Tang Q. ‘Indole-3-carbinol protects against pressure overload induced cardiac remodeling via activating AMPK-?’. Mol Nutr Food Res. Apr 27 2013. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201300012.
  1. Yeh C. T. and Yen G. C. ‘Effect of vegetables on human phenolsulfotransferases in relation to their antioxidant activity and total phenolics’. Free Radic Res. Aug 2005; 39(8): 893-904.
  1. Pittaway J. K., Robertson I. K. and Ball M. J. ‘Chickpeas may influence fatty acid and fiber intake in an ad libitum diet, leading to small improvements in serum lipid profile and glycemic control’. J Am Diet Assoc. Jun 2008; 108(6): 1009-13. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.03.009.
  1. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium.
  1. Ortiz R. M., Garcia S. and Kim A. D. ‘Is Almond Consumption More Effective Than Reduced Dietary Saturated Fat at Decreasing Plasma Total Cholesterol and LDL-c levels?’ A Theoretical Approach. J Nutr Metab. 2012; 2012: 265712. doi: 10.1155/2012/265712.
  1. Pauwels E. K. ‘The protective effect of the Mediterranean diet: focus on cancer and cardiovascular risk’. Med Princ Pract. 2011; 20(2): 103-11. doi: 10.1159/000321197.
Awake Food 60s, Body Balance, Drive!, Energy boosters, Green Magma, Vitamins & Minerals

Exercise, cleansing and supplements: tips on boosting your energy

Surely all of us know when we’re done in at the end of the day and it’s time for bed. But what if a good night’s sleep isn’t enough? What if, despite however many hours’ slumber you get several nights in a row, you still feel shattered? Well, if that’s the case, you’ll be suffering from chronic fatigue – and there’s definitely something wrong.

That’s because the production and use of energy in the body depends on cellular function – which, in turn, requires the consumption, absorption and transformation of vitamins and minerals – thus suggesting all’s not well in your cells. In fact, when your cells are struggling to produce the energy they ought to be, they can become damaged and die, leaving you low on energy yourself.

So what’s causing the problem? There can be several reasons for constant depleted energy – anything from thyroid or adrenal issues to parasites in your digestive system or candida overgrowth to deficiencies in Vitamin B12, chromium, magnesium or iron.

There is hope, however. The following body-enriching activities are highly advised. They’re all excellent – and, many of them, necessary for – boosting energy and helping to keep your mind sharp:

  • Exercise
  • Maintaining a natural, organic diet
  • Hydration through drinking water
  • Regular cleansing of the colon and liver
  • Keeping your hormones balanced
  • Massaging your muscles and body.

Not the best ideas for boosting energy

Conversely, they are a few died-in-the-wool, not so good methods many of us fall back on to supposedly boost our energy levels. Yes, we’re talking the ‘essential’ morning coffee and energy drinks here. Now, while the caffeine and sugar of coffee and energy drinks work as stimulants to ‘wake you up’, the effect is always short-term and will eventually lead to an energy crash. Moreover, caffeine is a powerful drug that results in dependence and puts stresses on the body’s adrenal glands and its endocrine system. When it comes down to it both these so-called energy boosters are mostly nutritionally deficient.

Better ideas for boosting energy

So, for a more effective, less harmful dietary-based energy boost, you’d do better focusing on getting more of these nutrients:

Vitamin B12

You really can’t overstate how much the body needs Vitamin B12. Without it, cellular energy creation (alternatively referred to as the ‘citric acid cycle’ or ‘Kreb’s cycle’) simply wouldn’t take place. The drawback for the body, though, is that it can’t create the vitamin itself – it must draw it from dietary intake. To wit, great natural sources for B12 are red meat, dairy, mussels and clams.

Chromium

Especially helpful in the transfer of glucose from the bloodstream to cells in order to transform proteins, carbohydrates and fats into energy, chromium occurs in a variety of different foods including fresh fruits and vegetables, potatoes (not least their skins), whole-grain breads and cereals, meats, cheeses and spices. Moreover, consuming hard tap water and using stainless-steel cookware can increase your chromium intake.

Iodine

Important in the body’s regulation of hormones, iodine is used by the thyroid to form triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), a pair of hormones that are crucial in normalising the levels of other hormones. In general, hormones are critical for keeping the body’s metabolism working efficiently and ensuring energy creation. For dietary sources of iodine, look to seafood and sea vegetables like dulse seaweed and wakame, as well as dark leafy greens.

Iron

Essential for the transportation of oxygen in your blood to tissues and organs, iron helps cells make energy by ensuring the oxygen they need reaches them. Traditionally, red meat was considered a good source for iron, but many people tend to consume less of it nowadays owing to its negative effect on cholesterol levels and heart-health. It’s true that certain fruits and vegetables (including broccoli, spinach, prunes and beans) also comprise iron, but at lower levels, hence why vegetarians can sometimes suffer from iron deficiency without realising it – as well as non-vegetarians who don’t eat red meat, of course.

Magnesium

Necessary to ensure cells activate adenosine triphosphate (ATP – the so-called ‘molecular unit of currency of intracellular energy transfer’), magnesium’s another hugely important mineral.Indeed, it was discovered in a recent study that for postmenopausal women, low magnesium levels directly correlate with low energy and can make completing basic physical tasks difficult1. When it comes to your diet it’s best to get your magnesium fill from spinach, almonds, sesame and pumpkin seeds, avocados and quinoa.

Supplements

Unfortunately, for different reasons, people aren’t always able to get the above minerals from their diets alone (in the manner of non-red-meat-eaters missing out on iron). In which case, a good substitute for energy boosters can be supplementation – and the following supplements are all available via The Finchley Clinic:

Awake_Food_60_Capsules

Awake Food 60s (60 capsules) – designed specifically to drive up the body’s energy levels and improve the mind’s alertness, this supplement’s formula contains B Complex vitamins (not just B12, but also B3, B5 and B6), three forms of ginseng and reishi mushroom

body-balance-powder

Body Balance (powder/ 420g) – supports a healthy metabolism by combining chromium, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), L-carnitine and high-quality whey protein to boost blood glucose and energy levels

Drive-180-capsules

Drive! (180, 90 and 30 capsules) – provides a combination of different nutrients to increase energy levels and help balance brain chemistry, including Vitamins B12, B3 and C, tyrosine, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese and folic acid

Green Magma (Barley Grass Powder) – a staple food of several different civilisations for thousands of years, green barley grass has been popular for so long because of its energising and anti-ageing properties, which isn’t surprising given it contains Vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12, as well as at least 50 minerals including calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium; available as a 10-day trial pack in 300g, 150g and 80g packs and in tablet form (250).

Reference:

  1. Garrido-Maraver J., Cordero M. D., Oropesa-Avila M. et al. ‘Clinical applications of coenzyme Q10’. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). Jan 1 2014. 19: 619-33.
Bio-Kult Pro-Cyan, Cranberry Intensive, Cranberry Plus, Prostate health, Saw Palmetto Complex, Urinary tract, Women’s health

Keeping on tract: preventing and fighting urinary tract infections

Few things in life are as natural and normal as spending a penny. So, if you experience issues when urinating, it often causes concern, even anxiety. Should you check with a doctor if you have trouble when trying to go? Probably, yes. Especially if you feel a great urge to go but then can’t or experience a burning sensation when you do. Or if the urine itself appears cloudy, smells odd or contains blood. Or if you seem to have back pain or pressure in the lower abdomen. Because, should you have a combination of these symptoms, then it’s likely you have a urinary tract infection. These infections (often abbreviated to UTI or UTIs in the plural) are bacterial-based and, if left untreated, can be painful, disruptive and dangerous. In addition to the above symptoms, they can also bring on nausea and a fever and chills – the latter suggesting that the infection is spreading beyond the urinary tract itself.

Causes

It’s certainly true that UTIs tend to afflict women more than they do men, but why is this? Well, while in part it may be because a woman’s urethra is shorter than a man’s and so nearer to their anus, the idea that someone will suffer from a UTI only because of poor hygiene in the anal area (something easy to remedy, obviously) is unfortunately not true. Other potential causes include pre-existing, digestive conditions such as diabetes and kidney stones, use of spermicide-coated contraceptives or possibly urinary catheters, a weakened immune system (thanks to, say, chemotherapy or HIV) and – in the case of men – an enlarged prostate gland. It’s not all bad news, though. The standard treatment for UTIs tends to be antibiotics. And yet it’s worth noting recent research suggests, while they’re often effective for many sufferers of UTIs, antibiotics may not be the silver bullet many assume them to be1.

The limitations of antibiotics

One of the big problems with taking antibiotics to treat UTIs is that they kill both the ‘bad’ bacteria (which create and spread the infection) and the ‘good’ bacteria that’s also naturally found in the urinary tract. Good bacteria plays an important role in ensuring the digestive system functions correctly; indeed, should its levels in your body drop, you could become susceptible to developing inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. However, further research has indicated several different natural remedies may help in not only supporting a healthy urinary tract, but hopefully preventing UTIs3.

Natural remedies

  • Cranberry juice – thanks to comprising A-type proanthocyanidins, cranberries may help prevent bad bacteria from making itself at home in the bladder; additionally, they may help stop kidney stones from forming4
  • Juniper berry oil – may work towards ensuring there’s probiotic (good/ bad bacteria) balance in the digestive tract5 and aid in flushing out the kidneys by encouraging natural urine flow
  • Uva ursi – often referred to as bearberry, this plant extract has long been seen as the go-to natural treatment for UTIs; you’re advised to take it as soon as you believe (or know) you’ve contracted an infection, ideally 2-4g daily for up to five days6
  • Organic food – a natural, organic diet featuring a host of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will support the tract’s good bacteria (as will remaining hydrated by consuming fluids, especially water), unlike a diet of processed food and refined sugar that will just aid bad bacteria growth7.

Supplements

Another way to keep the urinary tract healthy and help maintain the balance between good and bad bacteria in the digestive system is by taking supplements. The following are all designed specifically for this purpose and so could definitely be said to be supplements for urinary tract infections (as you’ll notice, in many of them the headline ingredient is cranberry). Needless to say, as they’re all available through The Finchley Clinic, we strongly recommend every one of them: bio-kult-pro-cyan

Bio-Kult Pro-Cyan (45 capsules) – a supplement that provides a triple action (36mg PACs of cranberry extract, Vitamin A and the probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum) to help balance gut bacteria levels and keep the urinary tract healthy

Cranberry Intensive (6 sachets) – contains a unique blend of cranberry, potassium salts, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Vitamin C and hibiscus extract that work together to fight bad bacteria in the tract; can be mixed with water and so consumed as a pleasant drink

cranberry-plus

Cranberry Plus (30 capsules) – in addition to its high level of fresh active cranberry components, this supplement contains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Vitamin C, all of which combine to help combat UTIs, cystitis and vaginal thrush

saw-palmetto-complex Saw Palmetto Complex (formerly Prostate Complex) (60 capsules) – encourages natural function of the urinary tract through its assorted ingredients: saw palmetto, lycopene, zinc, selenium, celery seed, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, beta sitosterol and the amino acids l-glycine and l-alanine; note that this product is especially beneficial for men as it also contributes to healthy prostate gland function.

References:

  1. Storm D. W., Patel A. S., Koff S. A. and Justice S. S. ‘Novel management of urinary tract infections’. Curr Opin Urol. Jul 2011; 21(4):328-33. doi: 10.1097/MOU.0b013e328346d4ee.
  2. Mannhardt W. ‘What is the cause of recurrent urinary tract infection?’. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd. Dec 1992; 140(12): 842-6.
  3. Reid G. ‘Potential preventive strategies and therapies in urinary tract infection’. World J Urol. Dec 1999; 17(6): 359-63.
  4. McHarg T., Rodgers A. and Charlton K. ‘Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation’. BJU Int. Nov 2000; 92(7): 765-8.
  5. Filipowicz N., Kaminski M., Kurlenda J., Asztemborska M. and Ochocka J. R. ‘Antibacterial and antifungal activity of juniper berry oil and its selected components’. Phytother Res. Mar 2003; 17(3): 227-31.
  6. University of Maryland Medical Center. ‘Uva ursi’. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/uva-ursi.
  7. Kontiokari T., Laitinen J., Järvi L., Pokka T., Sundqvist K. and Uhari M. ‘Dietary factors protecting women from urinary tract infection’. Am J Clin Nutr. Mar 2003; 77(3): 600-4.
Aerobic O7, Antioxidant Supreme, Curcumin Plus, Immune health, Immune products, Tapioca Vitamin C, Vitamin D3

Helping to fight the good fight: how to boost your immune system

As the year gathers speed and summer drifts into autumn, people’s thoughts turn to the weather changing and temperatures dropping. Which means they start to adjust their wardrobe and – in some cases – lifestyle accordingly. They start to think about being more vigilant about protecting themselves from the potential infections and ill health that lower temperatures can bring. In short, they start to think in terms of trying to boost their immune system. But why should they? Why is the immune system so important? What does it do for us? And what can we do to keep it operating as effectively as possible?

Put simply, the immune system is the part of the body that protects us from certain harmful organisms and toxins (some of which can be absorbed into the body when we catch infections in the forms of colds, flu and the like), which stop our body from functioning properly and so, yes, make us feel ill. The system itself is made up of a combination of cells, tissues and organs that, working together as an efficient network, prevent unwelcome pathogens from doing their dirty work in our bodies. In practice, the system’s actually made up of two parts – the innate immune system (protects against infections and aids the healing of cuts and bruises) and the adaptive immune system (protects against viruses, of which there are millions generated each year, thus this part of the system is distinguished by its ability to adapt to fight them).

Even more specifically, the nuts and bolts of both these halves of the immune system are white blood cells (or leukocytes). Once they’ve formed, these cells travel through the blood stream and enter the lymphatic system (something of a sub-section of the wider immune system) where they stimulate its organs, including the tonsils and thymus, to produce antibodies that find bacteria and other harmful organisms’ antigens, adhere to them and destroy them.

Disorders

Unfortunately, for some people the efficacy of their immune system isn’t what it should be. This could be down to many different factors, but one thing’s for sure; a weak immune system can be really bad news as you age. Lack of exercise, bad diet and the changes aging brings to the body can all contribute1. The three major types of immunity disorder are:

  • Autoimmunity – these conditions (of which 80 are known to exist, including type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis2) see the immune system attack healthy tissue it’s supposed to be protecting
  • Immunodeficiencies – these disorders may not ensure enough white blood cells are produced; they can be caused by overexposure to the likes of tobacco smoke, certain toxic metals and pesticides3
  • Hypersensitive/ over-reactive immune system – this one involves immune cells targeting and attacking harmless allergens, potentially damaging tissue and organs and increasing the chance of the body suffering from serious diseases.

Support

So to prevent such disorders, what can we do to support our bodies’ immune systems? Well, here are four headline behaviours everyone should make a priority:

  • Develop a healthy diet – processed foods and those containing refined sugars and flavourings, as well as soda, are out; vitamin- and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, blueberries, kale, spinach, lemons, avocado, oregano oil4 and garlic5, are in (especially if organic)
  • Exercise – helping to increase your oxygen intake and thus lung capacity, exercise is terrific at getting your metabolism going and promoting a healthy heart and efficient circulation; note: consistent exercise is key
  • Destress – becoming stressed increases inflammation and so will aggravate your immunity; trying to destress and finding ways to properly relax then are important (talking through problems isn’t a bad idea, nor is meditation)
  • Plant extracts – the nutrients and vitamins packed full in many easily available plant extracts are terrific for boosting your immunity; you might try echinacea (a favourite in traditional medicines for centuries and effective at fighting off colds and flu4), ginseng (especially good at tackling stress) and aloe vera (rich in antioxidants and the immunity-aiding compounds acemannan and aloctin A3, 6).

Supplements

Of course, another fantastic and easy way to consume enormously beneficial vitamins and nutrients is through supplements. The following – all of which are great immune system supplements – are available through The Finchley Clinic and, naturally, we highly recommend every one of them:

Tapioca Vitamin C (1,000mg; 90 capsules) – as this supplement’s sourced from tapioca (cassava root), it’s almost unheard of to cause allergic reactions and contains 99.9% vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid, renowned as an excellent anti-viral antioxidant, immune booster and major facilitator to anti-aging and building collagen

Tapioca-Vitamin-C

 

Vitamin D3 (5,000iu; 90 tablets) – chewable and with a natural apricot flavour, this supplement provides great support for both the immune and skeletal systems; it’s also kosher

Curcumin Plus (90 capsules) – a powerful antioxidant that aids good immune response, not least as it contains both ginger and sage extracts (specifically gingerols and ursolic acid, respectively)

Aerobic-07

Aerobic O7 (70ml) – a stabilised liquid oxygen product that’s excellent at prompting the creation of new white blood cells, which (as made clear above) play a crucial role in the efficacy of the immune system

Antioxidant Supreme (90 capsules) – a great all-rounder but especially for fighting free radicals, thus it can importantly contribute to boosting the immune system.

 

References:

  1. MedlinePlus. ‘Aging changes in immunity’. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004008.htm
  1. MedinePlus. ‘Autoimmune diseases’. https://medlineplus.gov/autoimmunediseases.html
  1. Winans B., Humble M. C. and Lawrence B. P. ‘Environmental toxicants and the developing immune system: a missing link in the global battle against infectious disease?’. Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, NY). 2011; 31(3): 327-336. doi:10.1016/j.reprotox.2010.09.004.
  1. Georgetown University Medical Center. ‘Oregano Oil May Protect Against Drug-Resistant Bacteria, Georgetown Researcher Find’. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2001/10/011011065609.htm
  1. Lissiman E., Bhasale A. L. and Cohen M. ‘Garlic for the common cold’. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD006206.pub4.
  1. Bany J., Siwicki A. K., Zdanowska D., Sokolnicka I., Skopińska-Rózewska E. and Kowalczyk M. ‘Echinacea purpurea stimulates cellular immunity and anti-bacterial defence independently of the strain of mice’. Pol J Vet Sci. 2003; 6(3 Suppl): 3-5.
Buffered Vitamin C, Fizzy C, Immune+, Tapioca Vitamin C, Vitamin C, Vitamins & Minerals

Don’t be deficient: how to avoid Vitamin C deficiency

When you read or hear the word malnourished, what image pops into your head? That of a tragically weak-looking, starving child, perhaps? Well, when you think about it, what malnourished actually means is when someone’s diet is deficient in specific nutrients so it damages their health and prevents their bodies from functioning properly. That means that, yes, potentially everyone on Earth can become malnourished – should they not ensure (or not be able to ensure) they have enough variety and nutrition in their food.

And one of the key nutrients every one of us should be getting from our diet is Vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid), an essential antioxidant to be found in an array of different fruits and vegetables1. Why is it so essential? Just look at the facts – Vitamin C…

  • Supports growth and development of the body and aids damaged-tissue-repair2, 3
  • Aids collagen production, which critically contributes to healthy skin, blood vessels, cartilage, ligaments and tendons4
  • Stimulates iron absorption and enhances the fight against cell-damaging free radicals5
  • Promotes heart health6
  • May reduce the risk of high blood pressure7, 8, 9

Deficiency – and its dangers

To that end then, Vitamin C deficiency can be very bad news. Indeed, in one of the worse-case scenarios, it could lead to scurvy. No, scurvy isn’t just a pirate-derived slang term for a nautically-derived illness; it is a genuine disease. One that, thankfully, nowadays doesn’t occur that often in the Western world because few are heavily deficient in Vitamin C. Its symptoms, though, include the likes of fatigue, anaemia, scaly skin, easy bruising and gum disease7. Very unpleasant. As mentioned, in developed countries the chances of someone developing scurvy are low – but there is still a chance (vulnerable people in the United States are at risk even10); vigilance is important then, which means we must all ensure we’re getting enough Vitamin C. Deficiency can be caused by:

  • Too little fruit and veg in your diet; evaporated or boiled cow’s milk for babies as opposed to breast milk
  • Medical conditions such as digestive tract injuries/ inefficiencies, kidney disease, genetic diseases and certain kinds of cancer10
  • Smoking – the tissue damage tobacco causes ensures the body requires more Vitamin C than normal, ensuring smokers/ those exposed to second-hand smoke probably need as much as 35g extra of Vitamin C each day10

Recommended daily intake

Speaking of recommended intake, according to the US Office of Dietary Supplements, that will vary based on your age – and your gender11. However, the US Government guidelines for Vitamin C intake are surely far too low. Experts suggest that – as stated, dependant on their age, body weight and pre-existing conditions – individuals should be aiming to boost their daily levels of the vitamin to anything between 3g and 15g12. For his part, Dr Linus Pauling, the early and great advocate of Vitamin C, recommended a daily allowance of up to 18g13. In short, we always need Vitamin C; whatever our age, gender or body weight.

Natural sources

As you may have guessed, it’s best to get your Vitamin C the traditional way – from organic, natural sources. At the high end of the scale then11, we’re talking those colourful fruits and vegetables – the likes of red and yellow peppers, orange juice and oranges themselves, grapefruit juice, kiwifruit and green peppers. If these aren’t entirely your cup of tea then maybe more regular (certainly more traditional) fare in a British diet are also good14, such as strawberries, Brussels sprouts, tomato juice, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and baked potatoes.

Supplementation

But what if you’re the kind of person that, try as you might, has just never got on with fruit and veg? Well, in that case, you may consider Vitamin C supplements. Not only are all of the following available via The Finchley Clinic, they’re also especially recommended because they’re organically, naturally derived:

Buffered Vitamin C (from calcium ascorbate) powder (180g and 60g) – ideal for those suffering from poor digestion, this supplement’s gentle and non-acidic; plus, as it comes in powder form, it can be easily mixed into drinks

Fizzy-C

Fizzy C (20 tablets) – additive- and artificial flavouring-free, this is ideal for all ages, not least because each tablet’s naturally sweetened so tastes great

Immune+ (Vitamin C with zinc) – in easy-to-swallow tablet form, this supplement contains the powerful antioxidant that’s blackcurrant, as well as zinc, black elderberry (which offers additional immune support) and bilberry (which provides the Vitamin C); available in bottles of 180, 90 and 30 tablets

Vitamin-C-Ultra-Pure

Tapioca Vitamin C (formerly Ultra Pure Vitamin C) (1,000mg; 90 capsules) – comprising 99.9% Vitamin C, this supplement’s derived from tapioca (cassava root) as opposed to corn, a food source that very few people are allergic to.

References:

  1. ‘Vitamin C’. MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, 9 Mar 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  2. Zeratsky, K. ‘Too Much Vitamin C: Is It Harmful?’. MayoClinic.org. Mayo Clinic, 5 Feb 2015. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  3. ‘Wounds’. University of Maryland Medical Center. University of Maryland, 5 Jan 2015. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  4. Boyera, N., Galey, I. and Bernard, B. A. (1998) ‘Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts’. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 20: 151–158. doi: 10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747.x.
  5. Lynch, S. R. and Cook, J. D. (1980) ‘INTERACTION OF VITAMIN C AND IRON’.Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 355: 32–44. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1980.tb21325.x.
  6. Osganian, S. K., Stampfer, M. J., Rimm, E. and Spiegelman, D. ‘Vitamin C and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Women’. ACC Current Journal Review 12.5 (2003): 27. PubMed. Web.
  7. ‘Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)’. University of Maryland Medical Center. University of Maryland, 16 July 2013. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  8. Juraschek, S. P. et al. ‘Effects of Vitamin C Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials’. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 95.5 (2012): 1079–1088. PMC. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  9. Ness, A. R., Chee, D. and Elliott, P. ‘Vitamin C and Blood Pressure–an Overview’. J Hum Hypertens Journal of Human Hypertension 11.6 (1997): 343-50. PubMed. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  10. ‘Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Consumers’. National Institutes of Health. US Department of Health & Human Services, 17 Feb 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  11. ‘Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health Professionals’. National Institutes of Health. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 11 Feb 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  12. Stock, S. L. ‘”C” your way to good health’. The Association for Systematic Kinesiology Newsletter. Jan 1989.
  13. Pauling, L. ‘My love affair with Vitamin C’. Profiles.nlm.nih.gov. Web. 2016.
  14. Bobroff, L. B. and Valentin-Oquendo, I. ‘Facts About Vitamin C’. University of Florida IFAS Extension. University of Florida, n.d. Web. 11 Mar 2016.