NutriChem

April is Cancer month and the biggest factor in fighting cancer today is health education.

It was reported in the 2009 Canadian Cancer Statistics Report that each week 3,300 Canadians are diagnosed with cancer and 1,450 die of the disease. Even more disturbing is the fact that cancer rates continue to rise among teens and young adults in Canada, particularly among young women, aged 15 to 29, with new diagnoses increasing by about 1.4 per cent a year.

Today, researchers think most cancers may be related to lifestyle and environment – what you eat and drink, whether you smoke, and where you work and play.

An interesting study was recently published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Researches studied subjects with colon cancer and measured how much exercise they got before and after their diagnosis. Results show that those who were more physically active both before and after their diagnosis had much better outcomes.

Engaging in 150 minutes of physical activity per week reduced the risk of mortality by 42% Those who did not participate in regular exercise had an increased risk of mortality by a factor of 1.36.

The good news is that you can improve your health by taking control of things in your daily life such as exercising. Of all cancers, 60 to 80 percent are preventable and about 50 percent are curable. Most cancers are lifestyle-related, so it’s important to include daily physical activity, a healthy diet that includes adequate amounts of fruits, vegetable and fiber and limiting consumption of alcohol.

Reference:

Campbell PT et al. (2013) Associations of recreational physical activity and leisure time spent sitting with colorectal cancer survival. J Clin Oncol 31(7):876-85

A recent study has found that 75% of us feel frazzled in the run up to Christmas. This boosts levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, which puts us at risk of illness and weight gain (just what we need on top of the extra calories!). To help, NutriChem has put together a few ideas on how you can enjoy a stress-free festive season!

Stress, which sometimes seems an inevitable part of daily life, is also a source of wear and tear on both body and mind. Stress is rooted in basic survival instincts known as the "fight or flight" response, which triggers chemicals in the brain and body, designed to help us manage a threatening situation.

Almost everyone is familiar with the physical symptoms of intense stress: racing heart, sweaty palms, and “butterflies” in the pit of your stomach. But it is also possible to experience low-grade, ongoing stress without those immediate symptoms. The chemicals that the body produces are the same however, and negatively affect the body at the cellular level.

Long-term stress, anxiety and depression have been linked with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. In fact, some research suggests that long-term stress stimulates the growth of the proteins that might cause Alzheimer's and that can lead to memory loss.

The impact of stress on people's brain health is also affected by other negative lifestyle behaviours. Overeating, drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes are among the informal stress management approaches people use, but all of them increase the risk of damage to the brain in the form of a stroke.

Beat Stress for Brain Health

It is possible to reduce stress and improve brain health with 20 minutes of relaxation a day.

Recommended relaxation techniques:

• Deep breathing

• Yoga

• Meditation

• Tai chi

• Progressive muscle relaxation – a technique by alternately tensing and relaxing the muscles

• Biofeedback – a way to measure the body’s physiological responses, and a tool to learn to control them

There are other lifestyle choices that have a two-fold effect on brain health. They're both good for the brain and can help reduce stress levels:

• Be physically active at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and drink enough water

• Limit alcohol consumption

• Get enough sleep 7to 8 hours a night

If relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes do not help reduce stress in your life, talk to a medical professional about counseling and recommended treatment plans.

References:

1. Training the brain to stress less http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/18/health/train-brain-stress-enayati/index.html

2. Biofeedback and stress relief. Biofeedback: How it works, What it does, How to use it! http://stress.about.com/od/programsandpractices/a/biofeedback.htm

3. Roles of stress in dementia investigated http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-18577326

Current headlines on arsenic-laced rice products are not the result of breakfast cereals and baby foods being soaked in poison at the factory. Rather, various natural and man-made processes can cause the toxic element to accumulate in rice grains as they grow.

Recent findings show that this poisonous element is present in more than 60 popular rice products, including crisped rice cereal, baby food and packaged rice.

How does arsenic, get into rice in the first place?

Chinese have the longest average lifespan in the world, and research suggests that the cultural significance of green tea consumption is a factor in that claim.

Researchers found Chinese women who drank green tea at least 3 times a week were 14% less likely to develop colon, stomach and esophageal cancers. No one can say whether green tea, itself, is the reason though. Many green-tea lovers are often more health-conscious in general. The study did account for the samples lifestyle habits. None of the women smoked or drank alcohol regularly. And researchers did collect diet assessments, exercise habits and medical history.  Even with those things factored in, women’s tea habits remained linked to their cancer risks.

Green tea Profile

Green tea contains certain antioxidant chemicals - particularly a compound known as EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate - that may ward off the body-cell damage that can lead to cancer and other diseases. Green tea contains relatively little caffeine compared to coffee – but 10 cups a day can still total 500 mg of the stimulant.

Green tea also contains small amounts of vitamin K, which means it could interfere with drugs that prevent blood clotting, like warfarin. Since many older people are on multiple medications, it's best for them to talk with their physician or health care provider before using green tea as a health stimulant.

Why don't other Chinese teas have similar health-giving properties? Green, oolong, and black teas all come from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. What differentiates between green tea is the way it is processed. Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidized. By contrast, black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which results in the EGCG being converted into other compounds that are not nearly as effective in preventing and fighting various diseases.

Concluding Remarks

If you want to start drinking green tea, it's considered safe in moderate amounts. But the tea and its extracts do contain caffeine, which some people may need to avoid. You can also consume EGCG in supplement form, usually in a capsule form. Always consult with your health care provider before you start any supplement program.

Our recommendations are the same as those of the The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  We all agree that the guiding principle of hormone replacement therapy is to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest period of time to ease symptoms.

How do you ensure the lowest possible dose?

Assessment In our Body Chemistry Balancing test, we investigate hormone levels, as well as a multitude of biochemical and nutritional factors that influence the way hormones work in a woman's body.  This assessment allows us to see which hormones may be helpful, or to see if hormones are needed at all.  Often there are underlying biochemical issues that can affect menopausal symptoms, such as low iron, adrenalthyroid function, digestive problems, low magnesium and , or neurochemical imbalances. Once these issues are identified, the body chemistry imbalance can be corrected, and hormone therapy may not be required.

Route of Administration Due to what is known as the "first pass effect", our liver selectively detoxifies anything we foolishly put in our mouth that may have toxic properties.  When hormones are given orally, higher doses are needed in order to counteract this first pass effect (1).  When hormones are given through the skin, it bypasses this step, and doses ten times less than what is given orally can be used.  Achieving the lowest dose is therefore easiest by giving hormones through the skin.

Selection of Hormone Human identical hormones, or bio-identical hormones as they are more commonly called, have been shown to be effective for a variety of menopausal symptoms.  With synthetic hormones, which look and act differently than human hormones, years of work go into establishing toxicity profiles because something foreign is being put in the body. Since the biochemistry of human hormones and how they function in the body is well-known, toxicity profiles don't have to be re-established.  The key to achieving the lowest and safest dose with human identical hormones is to stay within physiological ranges.   When it comes to choosing which hormone to use, progesterone in particular, has demonstrated effectiveness for relieving several menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety and mood issues (2-5).

What is the safest product for vaginal dryness?

There is no question that estrogens, used locally, are effective for perimenopausal and menopausal women to relieve vaginal dryness, and help with bladder control and other urinary tract issues.  However, concern should be raised when a product such as Premarin is used topically or vaginally in equivalent doses to that used orally.  This results in unnecessarily high doses of estrogen in the body and does not follow the guiding principle of using the lowest dose possible for the shortest period of time to relieve symptoms. 

Topical and vaginal estrogens have much higher bioavailability (up to 10x higher) than oral doses (6).  Human estradiol has been shown to be effective for vaginal dryness and bladder issues.  However, controlled studies have shown estriol to have very high rates of success when used to treat vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, vaginal irritation, and bladder problems and improve overall vaginal health (7-14).  As an added advantage, estriol is a weaker estrogen than estradiol and contributes less systemic estrogen activity.  Estriol, when given vaginally, has been reported to be safe for the endometrium (15-17) and is not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (18-19).

The base that the hormone is placed in is important.  Our product Nutriplens was designed to replicate natural vaginal secretions.  Primrose oil, which has been shown to help with skin dryness (20-22), is used as the oily phase in Nutriplens. A good base of primrose oil to help with dryness allows the use of less total estriol dosage and therefore follows the guiding principle of providing hormones at low doses to alleviate symptoms.

What are the benefits of compounding?

If we continue to follow the guiding principle of "lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to ease symptoms", then compounding or individualizing the dose is the safest and simplest way to achieve these goals.  As discussed in the example on vaginal dryness, we can manipulate the base formula and the amount of hormone to the lowest dose so that a woman gets symptom relief.  We've learned the "one size fits all" approach of the past has created a lot of problems.  Compounding provides a very safe approach, if a woman does indeed need hormones.

_References

_{1.  Sitruk-Ware, R. (2007)  New hormonal therapies and regimens in the postmenopause: routes of administration and timing of initiation.  Climacteric 10: 358-370.}

_{2.  Leonetti HB. et al. (1999) Transdermal progesterone cream for vasomotor symptoms and postmenopausal bone loss. Obstet Gynecol  94(2):225-228.}

_{3.  Montplaisir J., et al. (2001) Sleep in menopause: Differential effects of two forms of hormone replacement therapy.  Menopause 8:6-10.}

_{4.  Cummings J., Brizedine, L. (2002)  Comparison of physical and emotional side effects of progesterone or medroxy progesterone in early postmenopausal women.  Menopause 9:253-263.}

_{5.  Fitzpatrick L., et al. (2000) Comparison of regimens containing oral micronized progesterone or medroxyprogesterone acetate on quality of life in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional survey.  J Womens Health Gend Based Med 9:381-387.}

_{6.  Head, K.A. (1998)  Estriol: Safety and Efficacy.  Alt Med Rev 3(2): 101-113.}

_{7.  Barentsen R, et al.  (1997) Continuous low dose estradiol released from a vaginal ring versus estriol vaginal cream for urogenital atrophy. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 71:73-80.}

_{8.  Bottiglione F, et al. (1995) Transvaginal estriol administration in postmenopausal  women: A double-blind comparative study of two different doses. Maturitas 22:227-232.}

_{9.  Casper F, Petri E. (1999) Local treatment of urogenital atrophy with an estradiol-releasing vaginal ring: A comparative and a placebo-controlled multicenter study. Vaginal Ring Study Group. Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct 10:171-6.}

_{10.  Dessole S., et al. (2004)  Efficacy of low-dose intravaginal estriol on urogenital aging in postmenopausal women.  Menopause. 11(1):49-56.}

_{11.  Dugal R, et al. (2000) Comparison of usefulness of estradiol vaginal tablets and estriol vagitories for treatment of vaginal atrophy. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand  79:293-7.}

_{12.  Henriksson L, et al. (1994) A comparative multicenter study of the effects of continuous low-dose estradiol released from a new vaginal ring versus estriol vaginal pessaries in postmenopausal women with symptoms and signs of urogenital atrophy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 171: 624-32.}

_{13.  Lose G, Englev E. (2000)  Oestradiol-releasing vaginal ring versus oestriol vaginal pessaries in the treatment of bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms. BJOG 107:1029.}

_{14.  Raz R, Stamm WE. (1993) A controlled trial of intravaginal estriol in postmenopausal women with recurrent urinary tract infections. N Engl J Med 329:753.}

_{15.  Iosif, CS. (1992)  Effects of protracted administration of estriol on the lower genito urinary tract in postmenopausal women.   Arch Gynecol Obstet. 251(3): 115-20.}

_{16.  Weiderpass, E. et al. (1999) Low-potency oestrogen and risk of endometrial cancer: a case-control study.  Lancet. 353(9167):1824-8.}

_{17.  Vooijs GP, Geurts TB. (1995) Review of the endometrial safety during intravaginal treatment with estriol.  Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 62(1):101-6.}

_{18.  Rosenberg LU. et al. (2006) Menopausal hormone therapy and other breast cancer risk factors in relation to the risk of different histological subtypes of breast cancer: A case-control study. Breast Cancer Res 8:R11.}

_{19.  Lyytinen H, et al. (2006)   Breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women using estrogen-only therapy.  Obstet Gynecol 108:1354.}

_{20.  Yoshimoto-Furuie, K., et al. (1999) Effects of oral supplementation with evening primrose oil for six weeks on plasma essential fatty acids and uremic skin symptoms in hemodialysis patients.  Nephron 81(2):151-9.}

_{21.  Morse, P.F. et al. (1989)  Meta-analysis of placebo-controlled studies of the efficacy of Epogam in the treatment of atopic eczema. Relationship between plasma essential fatty acid changes and clinical response.  Br J Dermatol. 121(1):75-90.}

22.  Schalin-Karrila, M., et al. (1987)  Evening primrose oil in the treatment of atopic eczema: effect on clinical status, plasma phospholipid fatty acids and circulating blood prostaglandins.  Br J Dermatol. 117(1):11-9.

It is estimated that adults on average spend 50% to 60% of their day in sedentary behaviour, whether it’s at work, watching T.V. or sitting in a car. People who sit for prolonged periods may face a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses.  Even adults who meet the physical activity guidelines risk compromising their health by sitting for prolonged periods.

Food addiction is no laughing matter

According to new research that brings together psychology, physiology and nutrition, food addiction may be a real disease.  Good evidence suggests refined sugar, refined carbohydrates, added fat and salt, and caffeine are addictive substances. For people who are addicted to refined foods, just saying no to the bag of Oreos isn’t just difficult – it’s impossible!

Testosterone is a unique hormone and is the principal sex hormone in humans. Responsible for sexual desire and function, muscle building, densification of bones, and hair growth, testosterone is an important hormone for both men and women.  Compared to females, males produce about 10 times the amount of testosterone, but females are far more sensitive to its effects. Though testosterone is largely responsible for those traits and characteristics that are consider “masculine” i.e. physical strength, body hair, and dominance – both sexes require it for proper sexual function and physical development.

Testosterone is derived from cholesterol under the influence of luteinizing hormone (LH) produced by the pituitary gland. It affects many metabolic activities such as production of blood cells in the bone marrow, bone formation, cholesterol metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, liver function and prostate gland growth. It also affects mood.

Impact of Low Testosterone

Most parts of the body need testosterone to function optimally. Without enough active or bioavailable testosterone, many changes can occur.

The term ‘andropause’ is associated with low bioavailable testosterone levels. Every man experiences a decline of bioavailable testosterone but some men’s levels dip lower than others. And when this happens these men can experience andropausal symptoms. It is estimated that 30% of men in their 50s will have testosterone levels low enough to cause symptoms.

Typical symptoms of low testosterone levels include:

-       Excessive fatigue

-       Reduced interest in sex

-       Emotional, psychological and behavioural changes

-       Decreased muscle mass

-       Loss of muscle strength

-       Increased body fat

-       Weak bones/back pain osteoporosis

-       Forgetfulness

-       Sleep disturbances

Low serum concentrations of testosterone can also be associated with a higher mortality rate in men. New evidence suggests that as men age their testosterone levels diminish. Clinical findings suggest that there is an association between low testosterone levels and an increase risk of cardiovascular disease.

Testosterone is important and even vital if you want to build (and keep) strong bones and muscles and maintain a healthy, active life and live long and well into old age. How do you make sure you’re making enough? As you age, testosterone decreases so it’s important for your body to keep levels within the normal ranges.

Recommendations to Maintain or Increase Testosterone

-       Weight loss:  When you reduce your belly weight, this may increase your testosterone levels.

-       Supplementing with vitamin D, zinc and magnesium to help increase testosterone (speak to your pharmacist, naturopath or other health care professional for recommended dosages for your specific needs)

-       Resistance training is a potent stimulator of testosterone production

In order to get testosterone, you have to produce it. Make sure you check your levels annually with your family physician. And if you have any questions regarding testosterone you can always ask our pharmacists at NutriChem!

References:

Grossmann, Mathis. Low Testosterone in Men with Type 2 Diabetes: Significance and Treatment. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2011, June 6

Neek, L., Gaeini, A., Choobineh, S. Effect of Zinc and Selenium Supplementation on Serum Testosterone and Plasma Lactate in Cyclist After an Exhaustive Exercise Bout

Wikipedia: Testosterone Site Accessed Oct 11, 2012 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Testosterone

You don’t need a college education to know that diet, exercise and sleep are three of the most crucial things that can dramatically impact and when properly addressed improve both physical and emotional health.

Most people struggle with sustaining long-term change in these areas. There are some important steps that you can take to dramatically increase the chance you of sticking to your goals, whether it’s going to gym, eating better or taking your supplements routinely.

Remember margarine? It was advertised as healthier than butter several years ago. Though many have since caught on to that lie, the myth still continues. Margarine is as healthy as melted plastic. But it sure is cheap to produce! That was then, this is now. Could canola oil's health claims compare with margarine's fraud?

Fall is here, the weather is changing, and many of us are sniffing, wheezing, and succumbing to feverish chills. Even though, doctors are saying that getting the flu shot is the best way to avoiding having to suffer flu symptoms, many people are turning to local health-stores for a natural remedy, oil of oregano, to help ward off potential viruses.

Studies have shown that oil of oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. It is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants. But what makes it so potent in its healing powers?

Chemistry of Oregano Oil

Oregano oil contains four main groups of chemicals that contribute to its potent healing powers:

1.     Phenols, such as carvacrol and thymol, act as antiseptics and antioxidants

2.     Terpenes, which include pinene and terpinene, exhibit antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties

3.     Linalool and bonreol are two long-chain alcohols found in oregano oil, which add to the antiviral and antiseptic qualities

4.     Esters, potent antifungal agents

Although there is a combined effect of the many significant compounds found in oregano oil, its effectiveness is mostly attributed to the phenol carvacrol. Research on this particular phenol showed that it is one of the most potent antibiotics known to science . Testing done at Georgetown University, found that carvacrol was more effective than penicillin, streptomycin and even vancomycin (considered to be the strongest of all antibiotics).

What are the Benefits of Oil of Oregano?

The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize this oil for its health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is known as a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections.

Specific Uses of Oil of Oregano

·      Skin Infections: can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums. Dilute it first with olive oil or cocont oil since it’s a very potent substance.

·      Digestive Problems: the high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion.

·      Sinus Congestion: a brilliant remedy and is the number one recommendation by Kent MacLeod for any sinus congestion.

·      Colds and Sore Throats: an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Ask our nurse Shelagh!

Side Effects & Cautions When Using Oil of Oregano

While oil of oregano has many benefits, there are a few possible side effects:

• It may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron. So it’s recommended that the oil be taken at least 2 hours before or after consuming iron supplements or iron-rich foods. Getting your iron level checked with regular use of oregano oil is advised.

• Pregnant women should avoid this oil since it can stimulate blood flow in the uterus, which can weaken the lining that surrounds the fetus in the womb

• People that have allergies to thyme, basil, mint, or sage may be sensitive to oil of oregano as well, since they are in the same family of plants

Oil of oregano can be purchased as either a liquid or as capsules/tablets. In both forms, it is important that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%.  Talk to our health counselors and nutritionist to make sure oil of oregano is right for you and your health conditions.

References:

1.)   Balch,J. & Balch P. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 2nd Ed. ,Avery Publishing Group. NY 1997

2.)   Oil of Oregano Health Benefits http://www.homeremediesweb.com/oil_of_oregano_health_benefits.php

3.)   Oil of Oregano: Cureing Herbx http://curingherbs.com/wild_oregano_oil.htm

If you’re experiencing night sweats or hot flashes at night you may want to take a look at what you’re eating before bed. Although the main trigger of night sweats is a change in hormones, eating certain foods such as carbohydrates may contribute to the nightly sweating.

Improve all aspects of your health and well-being by making sure you get enough zinc in your diet. Many people know about zinc for its immune boosting properties, but this mineral is actually a wonder of health benefits.

It cannot be stressed enough that fiber is a healthy addition to any diet. Failure to get enough fiber can lead to a number of health problems, ranging from constipation to serious issues such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

If you're looking for a heart-healthy eating plan, the Mediterranean diet might be right for you. The Mediterranean diet incorporates the basics of healthy eating - plus a splash of flavourful olive oil and perhaps a glass of red wine among other components characterizing the traditional cooking style of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

Most healthy diets include fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains, and limit unhealthy fats. While these parts of a healthy diet remain tried-and-true, subtle variations or differences in proportions of certain foods may make a difference in your risk of heart disease.

Here are some questions we are commonly asked about supplement usage.

Q: Does it truly matter if I take my supplements regularly?

A: Our body does not take vacations. It is busy at work for us day in and day out without a moment’s break. Whether we are walking, running, sitting, sleeping, our body is actively repairing, replenishing and rebuilding our cells, tissues, bones, and organs. The battle to protect us against bacteria, viruses, allergens and free radicals is never ending. This is why we encourage consistent, daily use of nutritional supplements, so that your body has an ample supply of nutrients it needs to keep your body functioning at its highest capacity.

Q: Does it matter if I take my supplements all at once or is it important to take them at different times during the day?

A: Ideally, it is best to take your supplements at divided dosages. Try to follow the usage instructions provided for each product on its label. Read the tips for taking your supplements and find a solution that works best for you.

Q: Sometimes my stomach gets upset when I take my supplements. What can I do to avoid this?

A: If you experience discomfort from taking your supplements, you may want to decrease the dosage and gradually introduce it to your body to it’s recommended dosage or to where you feel most comfortable taking it. Make sure that you are taking the supplement properly. If you are unsure how to take them please contact the Patient Support Coordinator 613-288-1989 to help guide you.

Q: Is it okay to take my supplements right before bed?

A: If your supplements cause you to burp or experience discomfort, taking them before going to bed may actually be a good solution for you. However, some supplements have an energizing effect, so make sure that by taking your supplements late at night does not disrupt your sleep.

Q: There are so many pills! How can I remember to take them all?

A: It can be difficult remembering to take your supplements, but planning ahead and searching for a system that works for you are the keys to success. Here are a few ideas that may work for you:

·      Set your watch, phone or computer alarm to remind you each day

·      Associate taking your supplements with another habit that you already have. Place your supplements by your toothbrush or coffee maker so that you will be reminded to take them in the morning

·      Use a pill box daily to help you keep track of your daily use

Q: How long to I have to take these vitamins?

A: Supplementation provides your body the essential vitamins and minerals that you may be missing due to food processing, soil depletion and today’s general lifestyle. It is recommended to continue using vitamins on a regular basis in order to achieve optimal level of health and bridge any nutritional gaps in your body.

Two hours and 30 minutes: It makes up less than 2% of the total minutes in a week. It’s one-third of the typical workday. It’s even 44 minutes shorter than the movie Titanic.

Two hours and 30 minutes also happens to be the recommended amount of time adults should spend being physically active each week. Yet, it has been reported that few of us are meeting that goal – and it’s doing serious damage to our health.