Vitamin E


The Premier Fat-Soluble Antioxidant

Vitamin E is the primary fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin in the body. (Vitamin C is the primary water-soluble antioxidant). Vitamin E plays a major role in  cellular respiration. Deficiencies of Vitamin E are associated with:

  • heart disease
  • cancer
  • strokes
  • arthritis
  • allergies
  • infections
  • inflammation
  • diabetes
  • neurological damage
  • muscle weakness
  • fibrocystic breast disease
  • eczema
  • macular degeneration
  • poor wound healing

Dietary sources of Vitamin E include: wheat germ oil, nuts, whole grains, egg yolk.

NOTE: Doses over 800 IU per day of vitamin E may elevate triglycerides.

Maxi Multi provides 400 IU per day of Vitamin E

Those requiring additional Vitamin E supplementation should consider Tocotrienols

Tocotrienols


The “Other” Vitamin E

Tocotrienols“Vitamin E” is actually a mixture of tocotrienols and tocopherols, two forms of the same vitamin. Like tocopherols (the “classic” vitamin E), tocotrienols are also potent antioxidants that protect against lipid peroxidation (the damaging of fats by free radicals).

Research has shown that although tocotrienols and tocopherols possess similar activity, they work slightly differently in the body. The very newest research shows that tocotrienols may be even more valuable to good health than the classic form of vitamin E, tocopherols.

Actions of tocotrienols:

  • cholesterol-lowering properties not seen with regular vitamin E (tocopherols).
  • Tocotrienols reduce AGEs (advanced glycosylated end-products),
  • encourage healthy blood pressure levels and arterial health
  • support normal blood sugar balance
  • prevent fat oxidation

Both gamma- and delta-tocotrienols are powerful antioxidants working at the cells’ surface. Evidence indicates that tocotrienols are absorbed better than tocopherols.

The typical recommendation is 140 to 360 mg per day. Most studies have used 200 mg daily.

Contains: Tocotrienols 100 mg ( 90% Delta- Tocotrienols and 10% Gamma- Tocotrienols)

Other ingredients: Rice bran oil, gelatin, glycerin, water.

Suggested Dose: 1 or 2 softgels, one or two times daily or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

References:

1. Kamal-Eldin A, Appelqvist LA. The chemistry and antioxidant properties of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Lipids 1996;31:671–701 [review].
2. Kamat JP, Devasagayam TPA. Tocotrienols from palm oil as potent inhibitors of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in rat brain mitochondria. Neurosci Lett 1995;195:179–82.
3. Sen CK, Khanna S, Roy S. Tocotrienols: Vitamin E beyond tocopherols. Life Sci. 2006;78:2088-98.
4.) Schaffer S, Muller WE, and Eckert GP. Tocotrienols: constitutional effects in aging and disease. J Nutr. 2005;135:151-4.
5.) Theriault A, Chao JT, Wang Q, et al. Tocotrienol: a review of its therapeutic potential. Clin Biochem 1999;32:309–19 [review].

Water


What You Should Know (But Have Not been Told) About Your Drinking Water

  • Water is essential for good health
  • your drinking and bathing water may be contaminated
  • water contaminants are linked to a wide variety of illnesses
  • how you can protect yourself from impure water

Every Body Needs Water

57-70% of adult human body weight is water. Every cell in the body is dependent on water for survival and optimal function. Consider a few of the many important functions of body water:

  • maintenance of normal skin tone (dehydrated skin appears wrinkled
  • maintenance of normal bowel function (lack of water is a common cause of constipation
  • maintenance of normal urinary tract function (lack of water can lead to urinary tract infection, urinary frequency, kidney stones and bladder cancer)
  • maintenance of normal muscle tone
  • maintenance of normal fluid balance (dehydration leads to water retention; sufficient water acts as a diuretic)
  • maintenance of normal digestion (many nutrients are transported via the body’s water)
  • elimination of toxins (lungs, kidneys, skin and intestinal tract all depend on water for eliminative functions)
  • joints require sufficient water to make the “jello” (glycosaminoglycands) that provide cushioning

Aquasana Shower Filters

Your Best Bet for Safe Drinking Water

Your best bet for safe, clean drinking water is install an under-sink or countertop water purifier. The reverse-osmosis type is very reliable. If you don’t want to invest the money to do that, a simple pitcher with a charcoal filter is better than most bottled water. You can see how different systems stack up with this brand comparison chart.

And don’t forget your shower-water! When you’re hot (and your skin’s pores are wide-open), you can absorb toxins from the water. Shower filters are inexpensive and reliable.

For maximum protection, whole house water filters are the ultimate safeguard against water-borne toxins and impurities. These are not inexpensive but they offer great peace of mind.

A Good Water Filter is a Cheap Investment in Your Health

A reliable, highly-effective under-sink water filter is an excellent health investment, especially when you consider how important water is to health. The human body is about 60% water. That means we can have 60% of our total body weight contaminated with a variety of toxins if we drink lousy water.

The highest-rated water filters cost about the same as the cheap junk.

Aquasana Water Purifiers makes some of the highest-rated filters at the best prices.

Water Testing

Regular (annual) testing of your family’s drinking water is a wise investment in good health – especially if you are drinking municipal water that has been “treated”, flouridated and chlorinated! Well-water is also subject to contamination from a variety of sources and must be tested annually to ensure your family’s safety.

SAMe (S-Adenosyl-Methionine)


Anti-Depressant and Liver Protector

SAMeSAMe is a “methyl donor” manufactured in the brain from the amino acid methionine. SAMe is involved in the production of serotonin and dopamine. Levels of SAMe are found to be impaired in depressed patients, and oral doses are effective in improving these neurotransmitter levels. SAMe has also been found beneficial for osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee.

SAMe supplementation is useful for:

  • depression
  • low serotonin and/or dopamine levels
  • liver cell regeneration
  • fatty liver
  • cirrhosis
  • high cholesterol
  • osteoarthritis

Dosage:

Depression — Four hundred milligrams, three to four times daily. Start at a dosage of 200 milligrams twice daily for the first day. Increase to 400 milligrams twice daily on day three, 400 milligrams three times daily on day ten, and finally to the full dosage of 400 milligrams four times daily after 20 days, if required.

Osteoarthritis — Follow the guidelines for depression. After 21 days at a dosage of 1,200 milligrams daily, reduce dosage to a maintenance dosage (minimum dosage required to alleviate symptoms), usually 200 milligrams a day.

Fibromyalgia — Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two times daily.

Liver Disorders — Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two to three times daily.

Migraine Headaches –Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two times daily (Requires long term use for maximum effectiveness).

References:

1.) Baldessarini RJ, Neuropharmacology of S-adenosyl-L-methionine. Am J Med 83 (Suppl. 5A), 95-103, 1987.
2.) Reynolds E, Carney M, and Toone B. Methylation and mood. Lancet ii, 196-199, 1983.
3.) Salmaggi P. et al., Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of S-adenosyl-L-methionine in depressed postmenopausal women. Psychother Psychosom 59, 34-40, 1993.
4.) Kagan BL, et al., Oral S-adenosylmethionine in depression: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Am J Psychiatry 147, 591-595, 1990.
5.) Floman, Y., Eyre, D.R., and Glimcher, MJ., Induction of Osteoarthritis in the Rabbit Knee Joint: Biochemical Studies on the Articular Cartilage Clinical Orthopaedics &f Related Research (March-April 1980): (147): 278-86.
6.) Thompson, R. C.,Jr., and Oegema, T.R.,Jr., Metabolic Activity of Articular Cartilage in Osteoarthritis, an In-Vitro Study Journal of Bone &f Joint Surgeryó American Volume (April 1979): 61 (3): 407-16.
7.) Najm WI, Reinsch S, Hoehler F, Tobis JS, Harvey PW. S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe) versus celecoxib for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms: A double-blind cross-over trial. [ISRCTN36233495]. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2004 Feb 26;5(1):6.

Skin Rejuvenation


With Natural Cosmetics

Overview

The skin (integument) is a semi-permeable barrier that represents the body’s first line of defense in protection from the external environment. It is also one of the first things that people notice about us. Healthy skin is both a cosmetic blessing and a sign of healthy underlying systemic terrain.

In this presentation, we will focus on a program of rejuvenation designed to restore skin to a more healthful, beautiful state.

Functions of the Skin

The skin is often under-appreciated for the numerous benefits it affords us. It protects the body from mechanical, chemical and thermal injury. With the help of glandular secretions, skin provides a first line of defense against many pathogenic microorganisms. By virtue of its immunologically active cells, skin takes part in the defense mechanisms of the body.

The skin assists in regulating the water balance of the body. It both protects the body against desiccation (conserves water) and provides a method of loss of fluid and mineral salts (eliminates water). It also provides assistance to the kidneys in eliminating water-soluble toxins via such fluid loss.

Skin helps maintain body temperatures by its ability to regulate deep and superficial circulation and its ability to sweat, which provides a form of evaporative cooling.

With its many sensory nerve endings, the skin acts as a sense organ for pressure, temperature and pain. The ability of skin to blush, sustain piloerection (hairs standing up), express pallor, etc. means that the skin is also a communication method from the autonomic nervous system to the outside world.

GI-Liver-Kidney health are necessary for clear skin. The skin is an organ of elimination. The composition of perspiration is very similar to urine, only more dilute. Acne, boils and other infective skin diseases represent eliminatory attempts on the part of the body. Gut-derived endotoxins are absorbed from the large intestine into the hepatic-portal vein where they proceed to the liver for detoxification. Toxic substances are rendered water soluble in the liver and proceed to general circulation, and then to the kidneys for removal. When more toxins are presented to the kidneys than they can efficiently remove, the skin will also begin to eliminate the excess water soluble toxins. Such toxins can irritate, inflame and infect the skin, just as they can the kidneys and urinary tract. Taking steps to detoxify the gut-liver-kidney axis is an important first measure whenever infective skin conditions exist. [Refer to notes on Detoxification for a comprehensive list of herbs and natural remedies to accomplish this].

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Diet: The skin requires essential fatty acids, antioxidants and a wide variety of nutrients. Be sure to include ample berries and green vegetables in the diet, and minimize Omega-6 fatty acid intake (please refer to The Super Fast Diet for more information about healthful Omega Ratios).
  • Water: Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily. Water comprises over 60% of the adult human body. Water keeps the skin “plump” and prevents the appearance of fine lines. Even subtle deficiencies of water will cause minor skin lines to appear deeper and more noticeable. Dry skin is often also associated with subtle dehydration.
  • Don’t smoke! Smoking constricts superficial blood vessels that supply the epidermis with water and nutrients. Although the skin can sustain brief periods of diminished blood flow without incident, continuous deprivation of nutrients and water, as caused by cigarette smoking, greatly hastens the aging process of the skin. Additionally, cigarette smoking requires a person to repeatedly “purse” the lips. This, combined with compromised nutrition, accelerates the development of fine lines around the mouth.
  • Ultraviolet light is beneficial to the skin and body in small amounts. Sunlight is antimicrobial to the skin and stimulates the body’s endogenous production of vitamin D. Excessive ultraviolet light, as from the sun or tanning booths, is associated with premature skin aging, excessive discoloration (“age spots”) and increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma.
  • Use Healthful Cosmetics. cosmetics applied to the skin can effect its appearance and function. Because the skin is a semi permeable barrier, ingredients in cosmetics can be absorbed into the body.

    PRIMARY SUPPORT

    • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses all vitamins but especially vitamins A,C,E, carotenes, sulfur, silicon and bioflavonoids are particularly important to the skin.
    • Omega 3 fatty acids:
      Flax seed meal, 2 teaspoons per day with food
      OR
      Flax seed capsules: 2-4 caps, 3 times per day (target dose range: 6-12 caps per day)
      OR
      Flax seed oil: 1 tablespoon per day
      OR
      Max EPA (Omega-3 rich fish oil): 1-2 caps, 3 times per day with meals (target dose: 3-6 caps per day).
    • Grape Seed Extract: (100mg): 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals. The PCO’s in Grape Seed Extract help maintain and improve the skin’s elasticity.

    A Basic Regimen for Skin Care

      1.) Cleanse. The purpose of this is to remove surface debris and aid in the exfoliation. Cleansing should be accomplished with a mild soap such as Dove or with a gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh alkali products (most soaps) which strip the skin of natural oils.

      2.) Exfoliate. Exfoliation involves removing the most superficial layer of the skin by mechanical or chemical means to accelerate the turnover of new skin cells. This exposes new skin sooner, giving a more youthful appearance. Exfoliation can also remove bumps and rough spots and “buff” smother skin. There are a variety of ways to exfoliate.
      A.) Mechanical, using scrubs that contain fine-textured particles such as salt, kelp, finely group walnut or other nut shells, or synthetics. Start with a very fine grain of scrub and use slowly, giving the skin time to get used to the abrasiveness. Skin brushing with a very soft, fine-bristle brush accomplishes exfoliation and buffs the skin to a fine texture.
      B.) Chemical, using alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s): citric, lactic, or glycolic acids found in fruit. These provide chemical exfoliation and make the skin more receptive to whatever cream or lotion is to follow. They can be used alone, especially at night, for oil-prone skin. There are many AHA-containing products now available, ranging from .05-.10% acids. Stronger acids are available from a dermatologist or aesthetician.

      3.) Moisturize. Use any pure product that contains fixed oils or fatty acids to help seal the skin and prevent moisture loss. Even oily skin needs to conserve water. A light, non-greasy moisturizer can be used. Rejuvenex cream contains healthful moisturizers and antioxidants which protect the skin from free radical damage.

      4.) Protect. Use good sunscreen that contains at least an SPF of 15 and protection against UVB and UVA light. Sun damage greatly accelerates signs of skin aging including wrinkles, pigmented spots and patches, and skin cancer. Rejuvenex cream contains sunscreens to protect from both UVA and UVB radiation. It can be used alone or under makeup.

    Special Treatments for Skin

      Special treatments for skin include packs, masks, and deep-cleaning regimens that can be used once per week (more with oily skin) to give deeper therapeutic benefit.

      1.) Clay packs. Made from bentonite or other clays, have a drawing effect which helps lift impurities from the pores. Essential oils can be added to the clay to give additional benefits. Lavender essential oil is soothing. All essential oils have antimicrobial properties and are useful in cases of acne where bacteria are involved.

      2.) Moisturizing masks: Mashed avocado makes a wonderful mask that leaves skin feeling soft and highly moisturized. Other substances that can be used include mayonnaise and Crisco (vegetable lard).

      3.) Exfoliating masks: Mashed papaya contains papain, an enzyme which gives a deeper exfoliating treatment to the skin. Plain yogurt contains lactic acid, strawberries contain fruit acids. Any or all of these can be used as pure, gentle, exfoliating masks.

      Additional information about skin health you may find of interest:

    Botanical Materia Medica for Skin Rejuvenation

      Any and all herbs used for systemic detoxification are potentially useful in skin rejuvenation. Please refer to Detoxification.

      Gota Kola—Centella asiatica (Umbellifereae)

      Gotu kola is an Ayruvedic herb that is now popular in the West. It contains triterpene saponins, alkaloids, bitter principals, and is antimicrobial. It is credited with numerous actions, including anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic and antiseptic. Its effect on skin is to normalize connective tissue metabolism by stimulating glycosaminoglycan synthesis without promoting excessive collagen formation.

      The herb is also used for varicose veins because of its ability to enhance the structure of the connective tissue sheath, reduce sclerosis and improve blood flow.

      Grape SeedVitus vinifera

      Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPC’s) from grape seed and other species, such as Landis’ pine, is one of the most potent antioxidants known. OPC’s trap reactive oxygen species including hydroxyl radicals, peroxyl radicals, and lipid radicals; they also delay the breakdown phase of lipid peroxidation. OPC’s inhibit platelet aggregation in part by raising cGMP levels and protecting against epinephrine renewed cyclic flow reductions. In addition, OPC’s inhibit certain proteolytic enzymes, including collagenase, elastase, beta-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase which can damage the extracellular matrix surrounding capillary cells.

      BilberryVaccinium myrtillus

      The flavonoids in bilberry, specifically, anthocyanosides, promote prostacycline production and inhibit platelet aggregation in a manner similar to ginkgo. The potent antioxidant effects seen in this herb stabilize the vascular system and are therefore useful in treating capillary fragility, venous insufficiency, and varicose veins.

      Chamomile—Matricaria recutita, Anthemis nobilis

      German and Roman chamomile are used interchangeably, especially for the skin. Both contain chamazulene, an anti-inflammatory agent that is commonly used in face creams.

      LavenderLavendula angustifolia

      Lavender contains up to 3% volatile oils. It is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial. As such, the essential oils make a worthy addition to cosmetics, especially for those with acne or oily skin. Essential oil of lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be applied undiluted. It is useful for burns, cuts and abrasions to the skin.

      Essential Fatty Acid-Containing Botanicals

      Linoleic fatty-acid containing oils favor the production of the prostaglandin three series (anti-inflammatory). The essential composition favors adequate skin oil production without inflammation.

      Borago officinalis (Borage seed)

      Linum usitatissimum (Flax seed)

      Oenothera biennis (Evening Primrose)

      Ribes spp. (Black and Red Currant, Gooseberries)

      Other Herbs to Consider for Skin Health

      Aloe vera—Aloe

      Any flavonoid-containing herb may benefit the skin because of the stabilizing effect on the vascular system which decreases capillary fragility. Flavonoids also demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects

Are you ready to feel younger and more energetic than you have in years … or maybe even your entire life ?


Detoxify Your Body from the Harmful Effects of
Environmental Pollutants, Intestinal Waste and Parasites,
Drugs, Food Additives and Impure Thoughts
and Increase Your Health, Vitality and Life Expectancy Today!

From: The Desk of Dr. Dana Myatt
To: Sincere Health-Seekers Everywhere

Hidden Toxins are Everywhere,
Including Your Body

The world around us is filled with toxic chemicals. We encounter these chemicals in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the cosmetics we apply to our skin, the household cleaners we scrub with, the pesticides and synthetic fertilizers we spray or sprinkle in our gardens and dozens of other sources. Other toxins are actually produced in our bodies, the end-result of cellular metabolism (cell waste products). There is really no escaping exposure to toxins, and in addition to the internally-derived toxins, many of the external toxins also find their way into our bodies.

How do we know that humans absorb any significant amount of these toxins? Since 1976, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) started measuring levels of environmental toxins found in people. (The National Adipose Tissue Survey, or NHATS). The study looked at fat samples from people all over the country and measured the level of toxins present. In 1982, for example, they looked for 54 different environmental toxins, and their results were shocking. Five toxic chemicals were found in 100% of the samples and another 9 toxins were identified in 91 percent of all samples. These toxins included nasty chemicals like benzene, toluene, chlorobenzene, DDE and dioxins. PCB’s, substances which are highly toxic to the immune system, were found in 83% of all samples. A total of 20 toxic chemicals were identified in 76% of all samples— and remember, these “samples” were fat tissue taken from real people! “Environmental toxins” aren’t just in the world around us, they are in our own bodies.

Toxins Have Been Killing You Slowly For Years

The question isn’t “does your body contain toxic chemicals,” but rather, how many of these chemicals are in your system and what effect do they have on your health?

Toxins in the body are known to cause cancers, neurological diseases, autoimmune conditions, deceased immune function, allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities and fibromyalgia. And those are just the diseases that we KNOW are associated with body toxicity! There are many other conditions that appear to be associated, if not outright caused, by the accumulation of toxins in the body. Fatigue, headache, anxiety and depression, skin conditions (acne, eczema), rashes, Attention Deficit Disorder and even heart disease are all related to stored toxins in the body.

Imagine What Can Happen When
These Toxins are Removed

If you suffer from an illness, removing stored toxins in the system will go a long way toward cure. In many cases, detoxification IS the cure, especially when the disease is caused primarily by toxicity.

Even if you feel perfectly well, the presence of toxins in your body decreases your level of health and vitality. A gradual but certain decline in immune function, for example, might not be noticeable at first. But why wait until you have allergies, or catch colds more often, or are diagnosed with cancer? Regular detoxification will not only help prevent disease but will also reveal new levels of energy and stamina you didn’t even know you were missing!

What is Involved in a Detoxification Program?

In order to understand what a “good detoxification program” looks like, you need to know a little bit about how the body processes toxic substances. There are five major organs of detoxification and all five of these must be functioning in top form in order to properly remove toxic substances. These organs include the colon (large intestine), liver, kidneys, lungs and skin. Of these five, the liver and colon are considered the two “major players” in the detoxification process. Toxins that are not removed are stored in fat, bones, soft tissue and individual cells (which means every place in the body)!

SO, a thorough detoxification program must get all five detoxification organs in top form AND must pull toxins out of storage.

Total Body Detoxification
Produces Faster and More Impressive Results
than “Bowel Cleansing” Programs

There are a number of “detoxification programs” on the market. Many are downright silly, but some are pretty good. The problem that I see with all of them is that most only address one detoxification system. As you’ve just learned, there are five detox organs which all work together to process and remove toxins from the body. Why would we think that a great “detox program” would involve only one of the five?

For example, there is a popular “bowel cleansing program” on the market. As far as bowel cleansing goes, this is a good program. But even thoroughly cleaning the bowels does not ensure that the liver’s detox pathways are working correctly, and the liver must process toxic chemicals into non-toxic chemicals long before they reach the bowel. Nor will a “clean colon” pull stored toxins out of fat, bone and soft tissue. A well-functioning colon, accomplished by some form of “colon cleanse,” is certainly part of a good detox program, but it is not the whole of it. If you want to really remove toxins from your body, a Total Body Detoxification program is the only way to go.

Forget Fasting, Coffee Enemas,
and Eating Tofu Burgers—
Real Detoxification is Easier Than You Might Think

I won’t try to fool you: a Total Body Detoxification program requires more work than simply swallowing a couple of supplements and drinking a special tea. After all, if toxins are still coming in at a brisk pace (for example, by way of impure food), then all the cleansing in the world won’t be able to remove poisons faster than they are introduced. A real detoxification program requires attention not only to the eliminative organs, but also to removing sources of incoming toxins.

On the other hand, the body is a remarkably forgiving organism when we give it a break, and a Total Body Detoxification is not as difficult as you might think. Although in extreme cases, extreme measures are sometimes necessary, most people can safely and effectively detoxify without doing strange and difficult things like coffee enemas, fasting, daily hour-long saunas or strenuous exercises. A few special nutritional formulas and supplements, several simple daily health practices, some minor but important diet changes and a positive attitude are all that is necessary to perform a powerful “detoxification program” which will remove much of the toxic waste that has accumulated in your body. As a result, you will find yourself feeling stronger and more energetic. Many little “nagging problems” will disappear, and even if you don’t have any current health complaints, you will be hedging your bet against disease.

Design a “Do It Yourself”
Total Body Detox Program

Don’t be stupid: if you have a serious medical condition, get professional help and guidance for your detoxification program. If you are in otherwise good health and want to undergo a Detox Program for preventive measures, here are my guidelines.

First, remember that you have five organs of elimination, all involved in the detox process. A Total Body Detox program will get each of these five organs in better working condition. Here’s how.

General Diet and Lifestyle:

Diet: Don’t eat junk! No sugar, white flour, soda pop, fruit juice (unless fresh made and even then, there’s more benefit in the fresh fruit). Milk isn’t a health food, but cheese is OK. Plenty of protein and non-starchy vegetables with modest fruit (berries are best). Blueberries, salmon, lemons, “greens” (kale, beet green, etc.), walnuts, garlic and onions, cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts) and tomatoes (especially tomato paste) are Super Foods. Knock yourself out.

The “phytonutrients” in plants are important all the time, but especially during detoxification where they regulate liver enzymes, improve bowel function and serve as antioxidants. The recommended daily intake is 10-18 servings of veggies per day, preferably organic. I have found this level of intake all but impossible to obtain without supplementation. A green food concentrate such as Greens First, one scoop per day (it tastes great in a Super Shake, mentioned below), provides the nutrient equivalent of 10+ servings of veggies. Although I highly recommend this formula on a daily basis, it is especially important during a Total Body Detox program.

Lifestyle:

I.) Exercise: 30 minutes minimum of exercise that gets you breathing harder than usual, preferably outdoors.

II.) Sunshine: minimum 10 minutes per day of “real” sunlight. The scare stories about sunlight causing cancer are unfounded (unless you are foolish and stay out for hours until you burn).

III.) Sleep: 8 hours per night, especially during Detox but in general, 8 hours is a healthful routine.

Now for the specific organs of detoxification:

For the LUNGS: Daily deep breathing exercises, performed for 10 minutes, twice per day. (This assumes that you have good air to breathe. If you live in a polluted city, these exercises should be performed in a building with a good air purifier, or next best, get to a park or place with a lot of trees and green growing things. Plants purify the air.) Breathing exercises can include aerobic activity (which increases the depth of respiration), singing, blowing up balloons, or deliberate “belly breathing.” (A true deep breath should make the belly expand).

For the Kidneys: Pure H2O (that would be water!), 64 ounces per day or more if you are working outdoors doing sweaty manual labor. The kidneys remove water-soluble toxins. When the urine is dilute (from drinking sufficient water), the toxins are diluted and do not damage the kidneys or bladder on their way out of your system. But with too little water intake, the toxins removed by the kidneys can be sufficiently concentrated so as to damage kidney function. When this happens, the kidneys become less able to remove toxins.

If you own a well, do you have it tested annually? Don’t assume that your well water, which was good last year, remains so over time. An annual water test is highly recommended, even in areas of known water quality. If you live in a city or drink municipal water, don’t (drink the water, that is)! Purified water or spring water is an alternative, or purchase a water filter for your home drinking water.

For the SKIN: Daily skin brushing, using a soft-bristled skin brush (available at most health food stores) or a loofah (but use this only in the shower; it is too coarse to use dry). The skin brush, however, should be used on dry skin. Brush from head to toe, excluding the face. A “tip to toe” skin brushing should take about 5 minutes. Follow with a warm (not hot) shower and use pure soap. (Castile soap is a good one, but Dove and Ivory are acceptable). Saunas and steam baths are also highly skin-detoxifying if you have them available.

Surprising at it may seem, the skin is the largest organ of elimination in the body. Sweat (or perspiration if you’re a female), has the same composition as urine only more dilute. Be assured that if you have skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis or other irritations, you have a condition of internal toxicity that needs to be corrected. When the liver, kidneys and colon are not able to remove toxins efficiently, the skin “picks up the slack,” and those removed toxins cause skin diseases of all types.

For the LIVER: As one of the two MAJOR detox organs, the liver deserves special attention. Here is how to increase the detoxification processes of the liver.

Protein. The liver has a high requirement for protein. With today’s foolish government-blessed “food pyramid” recommending 6-12 servings of carbohydrate foods per day, many people are actually protein deprived. Inadequate protein slows the liver’s detox abilities to a grinding halt. Be sure to get high quality protein every day, beginning with breakfast. Like steak and eggs? Go for it. Eggs in any form, especially farm-raised eggs cooked with yolks still runny, are a liver-lovin’ treat. Beef, fish (especially salmon) and wild game are the healthiest meats. Whey, especially the kind processed with the immune factors intact, is a “Super Food” for the liver. I recommend during a Total Body Detox that you have one Super Shake every day, either as a meal replacement or for a snack.

Special nutrients. The liver’s detoxification pathways require particular nutrients including vitamin B6, B12, folic acid, magnesium, methionine and inositol. Certain herbs also help stimulate liver detoxification, including milk thistle, dandelion and black radish. My favorite formula which contains these important liver detox nutrients and herbs in the correct amounts is Lipotropic Complex. Any detoxification program should include these liver-protecting and stimulating substances.

For the Colon: As the second MAJOR detox organ, the colon also deserves special attention.

Fiber. Soluble and insoluble fiber should be taken daily, not just during detox. The minimum recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams (but 40+ is better). The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) contains an average of 10 grams. Some foods that you might think are high in fiber, such as lettuce, actually contain very little fiber. Most people get a lot less fiber than they think, but good colon health depends on adequate fiber intake.

There are a number of fiber formulas available. The best ones include both soluble and insoluble fiber. Read labels and aim for an additional 10 grams of fiber per day from supplemental fiber. (Start by adding 5 grams per day for a few days, then increase to 10. A sudden increase in fiber consumption can cause intestinal discomfort). An easy, inexpensive way to get this amount of both types of fiber is to include 2 TBS. of crude wheat bran (providing 6 grams of insoluble fiber) and 1 ounce of oat bran (providing 4.5 grams of soluble fiber) per day. This can be made into a hot breakfast cereal or get creative and try a muffin recipe that includes both. (And send me the recipe when you develop a good one)! Ground flax seed meal can also be added, as it includes both types of fiber AND important Omega-3 fatty acids.

Activated charcoal. As great as increased fiber is at improving bowel movements and hence the elimination of toxins through the bowel, nothing compares to activated charcoal for it’s ability to adsorb toxins and carry them out of the body. Nothing. During a Total Body Detox program, when the body is releasing toxins at a fast rate, you should consume 10 grams (1 TBS.) of activated charcoal twice per day OR (alternate plan), 20 grams at bedtime. This would require 40 capsules of charcoal per dose. For this reason, I recommend a bulk powdered charcoal/bentonite formula call Enteraklenz (listed below under “Five Proven Formulas”).

Charcoal is messy. It sticks to everything it touches, which is why it is so amazing at removing toxins. The easiest way that I’ve found to take it is to put it in a screw-top jar with some crushed ice and water and shake, then drink with straw. a bit more water can be added when you are done to “rinse” the ice and get the last bit of charcoal. And yes, your teeth and tongue will be black when you finish, but a good tooth-brushing (preferably with baking soda instead of toothpaste which contains toxic fluoride) will take care of this in short order. The inconvenience is well worth the health benefit of this amazing detoxifier!

Five Proven Formulas
That Detoxify and Rejuvenate
The Entire Body

As you have seen, much of a Total Body Detox can be accomplished by diet and lifestyle improvements. Fiber can be easily obtained by eating a combination of wheat and oat bran, thus avoiding expensive supplements. Still, there are several formulas which perform Detox functions above and beyond what can be obtained from food and lifestyle practices alone. I believe that these five supplemental formulas should be a part of any serious Total Body Detox program.

1.) For the Liver: Lipotropic Complex, providing the necessary nutrients and support herbs to enhance liver detoxification pathways. Dose: 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals.

2.) For the Bowel: Entraklenz, a combination of charcoal and bentonite, a highly absorptive clay. Above and beyond the increased fiber, this formula provides a super-high-test toxin binding substance that will tightly bind and carry released toxins out of the bowel via the stools. (NOTE: your stools will be black, so don’t get spooked! It’s the charcoal). Dose: 1 TBS, 2 times per day or 2 TBS, once per day (next best). Continue for 3 weeks.

3.) For Cellular Detox: Chlorella. This particular algae increases removal of cellular waste products plus it binds and removes many heavy (toxic) metals from the system. Dose: 2 caps, 3 times per day with meals.

PLUS:

Multiple vitamin/mineral formula with antioxidants. A High-potency, hypoallergenic multiple vitamin/mineral/trace mineral formula supplying target doses of antioxidant vitamins, B complex vitamins, selenium, magnesium, calcium and molybdenum, all of which are particularly important to detoxification. Make sure that your multiple provides optimal doses of these nutrients. (See optimal dose chart here). Maxi Multi is formulated to contain target levels of all of these nutrients. Please note: if you take separate formulas, expect to take a minimum of 9 capsules per day to obtain therapeutic daily doses. There is no such thing as a “one a day” vitamin formula. Small amounts of these nutrients are called “fairy dust” because they are insufficient to do anything important in the body but they make the supplement label look impressive!

High Omega-3 Fish oil: Dose: 2 caps, 3 times per day with meals OR take 1 TBS. of fish oil with a meal.

What about Laxatives and Parasite Formulas?

Many “bowel cleansing” programs include laxatives and an herbal “parasite formula,” but I don’t generally recommend them as a necessary part of a good Total Body Detox program.

The increased fiber intake plus more veggies and less junk food normalizes bowel function, whether one tends toward diarrhea or constipation. If you are not having at least one generous bowel movement a day after several days, try adding 3A Magnesia to your program. Begin by taking one capsule with dinner. If you do not have a happy B.M. the next morning, take 2 caps the next evening with dinner. Increase by one capsule per day until you have a generous bowel movement in the morning. Again, many people will not need this with the addition of fiber, veggies and Omega-3 oils.

As to parasite formulas, most herbal capsules are not strong enough to eradicate common parasites. The addition of high fiber and charcoal does a number on many such pests anyway. If bowel or systemic symptoms persist after the detox program that lead you to believe you may have intestinal parasites, a simple stool evaluation should be performed so that targeted therapy (as opposed to shotgun therapy), can be initiated.

Still Have Questions?

This is the “beta” draft of my Total Body Detox protocol, so this page may still contain unanswered questions. (I pushed to get the draft done today so my eager-to-detox friends Rene and Allison could get started)! 😉  If you have questions (simple ones!), please email me. If you have complicated questions or a serious medical history that requires supervision during detox, I am available for medical consultations by telephone. Either way, I wish you a health and happiness-producing Total Body Detoxification Program!

P.S. The “Full Monty” Total Body Detox program should last 3-4 weeks, but continue the multi vitamin/mineral formula, Omega-3 fish oil and wheat/oat bran combination indefinitely— they are part of an ongoing healthy lifestyle!

In Health,

Dr. Myatt

 

Turmeric:


Powerful Cancer-fighting Herb
that drug companies are rushing to imitate.

An ever-growing body of scientific evidence demonstrates that turmeric — the bright yellow spice herb used in East Indian cooking — has potent anti-cancer properties. According to Bharat Aggarwal, chief of cytokine research at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, the research to date shows that turmeric’s anti-cancer “promise is enormous.” This evidence and opinion was reported at the recent Society for Integrative Oncology conference and is also posted on the American Cancer Society’s website (www.cancer.org).

Turmeric, and it’s primary active ingredient curcumin, is the main ingredient in curry and a member of the ginger family. In addition to it’s anti-cancer properties, turmeric is a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting herb. Expect to see and read a lot more about this herb in the future, although Wellness Club members have known about the benefits of turmeric for over a decade!

You can learn more about turmeric and find one of the most potent turmeric supplements available on The Wellness Club website by visiting Turmeric: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-Cancer Herb.

References

1.) Curcumin inhibits the mammalian target of rapamycin-mediated signaling pathways in cancer cells. Beevers,Li,Liu,Huang. Int J Cancer. 2006 Mar 20
2.) Antitumor action of curcumin in human papillomavirus associated cells involves downregulation of viral oncogenes, prevention of NFkB and AP-1 translocation, and modulation of apoptosis. Divya CS, Pillai MR. Mol Carcinog. 2006 May;45(5):320-32.
3.) Curcumin mediates ceramide generation via the de novo pathway in colon cancer cells. Moussavi M, Assi K, Gomez-Munoz A, Salh B. Carcinogenesis. 2006 Feb 25; [Epub ahead of print]
4.) Overexpression of p65/RelA potentiates curcumin-induced apoptosis in HCT116 human colon cancer cells. Collett GP, Campbell FC. Carcinogenesis. 2006 Feb 23; [Epub ahead of print]
5.) Induction of G2/M arrest and inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 activity by curcumin in human bladder cancer T24 cells. Park C, Kim GY, Kim GD, Choi BT, Park YM, Choi YH. Oncol Rep. 2006 May;15(5):1225-31.
6.) Molecular targets of dietary agents for prevention and therapy of cancer. Aggarwal BB, Shishodia S. Biochem Pharmacol. 2006 Feb 23; [Epub ahead of print]
7.) Inhibition of telomerase activity and induction of apoptosis by curcumin in K-562 cells. Chakraborty S, Ghosh U, Bhattacharyya NP, Bhattacharya RK, Roy M. Mutat Res. 2006 Jan 27; [Epub ahead of print]
8.) Curcumin differentially sensitizes malignant glioma cells to TRAIL/Apo2L-mediated apoptosis through activation of procaspases and release of cytochrome c from mitochondria. Gao X, Deeb D, Jiang H, Liu YB, Dulchavsky SA, Gautam SC. J Exp Ther Oncol. 2005;5(1):39-48.
9.) Multiple biological activities of curcumin: a short review. Maheshwari RK, Singh AK, Gaddipati J, Srimal RC. Life Sci. 2006 Mar 27;78(18):2081-7. Epub 2006 Jan 18.
10.) Curcumin, an atoxic antioxidant and natural NFkappaB, cyclooxygenase-2, lipooxygenase, and inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor: a shield against acute and chronic diseases. Bengmark S. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2006 Jan-Feb;30(1):45-51.
11.) Antiproliferation and apoptosis induced by curcumin in human ovarian cancer cells. Shi M, Cai Q, Yao L, Mao Y, Ming Y, Ouyang G. Cell Biol Int. 2006 Mar;30(3):221-6. Epub 2005 Dec 22.
12.) Synergistic inhibitory effects of curcumin and 5-fluorouracil on the growth of the human colon cancer cell line HT-29. Du B, Jiang L, Xia Q, Zhong L. Chemotherapy. 2006;52(1):23-8. Epub 2005 Dec 9.
13.) Curcumin induces human HT-29 colon adenocarcinoma cell apoptosis by activating p53 and regulating apoptosis-related protein expression. Song G, Mao YB, Cai QF, Yao LM, Ouyang GL, Bao SD. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2005 Dec;38(12):1791-8. Epub 2005 Nov 9.
14.) Inhibition of cellular proliferation and induction of apoptosis by curcumin in human malignant astrocytoma cell lines. Nagai S, Kurimoto M, Washiyama K, Hirashima Y, Kumanishi T, Endo S. J Neurooncol. 2005 Sep;74(2):105-11.
15.) Curcumin inhibits human colon cancer cell growth by suppressing gene expression of epidermal growth factor receptor through reducing the activity of the transcription factor Egr-1. Chen A, Xu J, Johnson AC. Oncogene. 2006 Jan 12;25(2):278-87.

 

 

HealthBeat News

In This Issue:

The Product EVERYONE should have on hand! This simple, inexpensive supplement can protect you from a serious consequence of radiation and nuclear fallout. Remember Chernobyl?

Skin Rejuvenation Protocol. Find out the best methods for renewing a youthful appearance to skin. Dr. Myatt summarizes the research, then puts it all together in a comprehensive “Skin Renewal” program. A MUST for Summer skin care!

Member News and Notes

*We heard your feedback and Thank You! By popular vote, HealthBeat will be delivered in “abstract”(summary) form to your mailbox. Simply click the underlined links to go to those articles you are interested in.

* Upcoming topics: by reader request, future topics will include natural hormone replacement therapy; Omega-3 Fatty Acids and how to obtain them; osteoporosis, prostate health, and more.

* Send a sample issue of HealthBeat to a Friend and let them share the medical updates. If they enjoy it, they can sign up at no charge.

The Product EVERYONE Should Have On Hand!

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A RADIATION EMERGENCY?

Potassium Iodide (KI) Can Shield You From Thyroid Cancer

With 103 active commercial nuclear reactors in the United States, we live in constant threat of a nuclear emergency every day. A terrorist attack on any one of these facilities, or the release of a “dirty bomb” is also a possibility in today’s “highly charged” world. In fact, in an emergency, if you live within 200 miles of a nuclear reactor, you have a high risk of being exposed to significant doses of radioactive isotopes. In the event of a nuclear accident or attack radioactive materials can be released into the atmosphere, a high percentage of which is radioactive iodine. When a radioactive iodine cloud passes through a populated area, the radiation is concentrated into the thyroid gland of those exposed. The result is irreparable damage to the thyroid, which can lead to cancer. The 1986 Chernobyl accident in the Ukraine is a tragic example.

The best protection against thyroid damage and thyroid cancer induced by radioactive iodine exposure is Potassium Iodide. This simple compound protects the thyroid by saturating all of the iodine binding sites in the gland, leaving no room for the binding of radioactive iodine. Potassium Iodide is a low-cost way to protect yourself and your family against the long-term consequences of exposure to radiation. When used correctly, potassium iodide tablets can prevent or reduce the amount of radioactive iodine taken up by the thyroid gland. Even the government and the military stocks up on potassium iodide in case of nuclear disaster.

The body can’t distinguish between radioactive and the benign version of iodine, which is necessary for thyroid function. Taking 130 mg of potassium iodide, the dosage widely recommended for the blocking of radioactive iodine in the event of a nuclear disaster, can quickly and completely protect the thyroid gland, which is one of the organs most commonly damaged by radioactive fallout. Dr. Myatt’s Wellness Club offers a supplement that contains 14 x 130 mg tablets of potassium iodide. Tablets are scored for easy breakage in the case of any need for dosages smaller than 130 mg, as recommended for children and pets.

How many packages do you need?

The FDA recommends that you have one package per person available.* Remember that during an emergency, you may not be able to get to your home, thus it is recommended to have packages stored in several places as well. Since the shelf life of this product is virtually unlimited, you should have to purchase your supply only once. Have this on hand for your family, and remember the children, pets, grandchildren, too!

* To view home preparation procedures for emergency administration of potassium iodide, visit the FDA website at http://www.fda.gov/cder/drugprepare/kiprep.htm Only take potassium iodide tablets when guided by health officials in your area and follow guidelines included with each bottle.

Skin Rejuvenation Protocol

The skin (integument) is the body’s first line of defense in protection from the external environment. If it also one of the first things people notice about us. Healthy skin is both a cosmetic blessing and a sign of a healthy underlying system, yet few people know how best to take care of this important organ. Let’s focus on some of the most important things we can do to protect this amazing bit of our architecture!

A Basic Regimen for Skin Care

    1. Nutrition: Beauty from the Inside Out. Healthy skin requires water, essential fatty acids and nutrients to be truly healthy. No amount of topical cosmetics will make up the difference to skin that is under-nourished. The skin requires the following:

A.) Water ! The body is 60% or more water. Even a subtle dehydration makes lines and wrinkles appear deeper, whereas being well hydrated “plumps” skin and minimizes the appearance of lines. Drink 64 ounces of PURE water per day, especially in the Summer,

B.) UV Light: Small amounts of UV are beneficial to the skin, but excess amounts can cause premature aging and contribute to skin cancer. Ten minutes of early-morning sun several times per week is sufficient for skin health. Beyond that, always wear a UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15, especially on the face.

C.) Smoking (and second-hand smoke): Causes a constriction of the small blood vessels that bring nutrients to the skin, depriving skin of both water, vitamins and minerals, and fatty acids. Smoking is one of the absolute WORST things you can do to skin. Don’t go there!

D.) Nutrients:

  1. Multiple Vitamin/Mineral Supplements: An optimal vitamin/mineral/trace mineral formula such as Maxi Multi supplies the important micronutrients required for healthy skin.
  2. Essential fatty Acids: The skin needs essential fats from the inside out to stay moisturized. EFA’s are supplied by flaxseed oil, flaxseed meal, or fish oil. Be sure to take 1-2 TBS of flax oil or 3 Caps of fish oil per day, and include fatty fish such as salmon in the diet twice per week. (You’ll learn more about Essential fats in upcoming installments of The New Keto Diet).
  3. Grape seed extract: 50-100 mg, 2-3 times per day is an optional “metanutrient” that aids the skin by improving collagen formation (the underlying structural material of skin) AND by acting as a potent antioxidant to protect skin from oxidation. (The human equivalent of “rust”!)
    1. A Basic Regimen for Skin Care

I.) Cleanse: The purpose is to gently remove surface debris without stripping natural oils. Most soaps are highly alkali and strip skin of natural oils. Wash skin twice per day in a mild soap like Dove or Ivory (both are highly recommended by many dermatologists).

II.) Skin Cream: Proven ingredients helpful for topical application include antioxidants (A,C,E, alpha lipoic acid) in a form that is easily absorbed by the skin (micronized). Glycolic acid helps break down old cells so they can be replaced more quickly with new cells from beneath. DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) helps firm sagging skin, NaPCA aids moisture retention and Sunscreens that protect from UVA, UVB, and UVC are all useful in keeping skin radiant.

I have found it difficult if not impossible to find a good cream that contains all of these important ingredients until now. Rejuvenex is the first cosmetic preparation that I am aware of to combine the finest, proven ingredients into one easy formula. You can try to duplicate all of these skin essentials yourself, but you will be working hard and paying far more for the individual preparations. (Believe me, I know from experience. That’s how I’ve been making my own cream until now!).

In order to introduce you to the benefits of this formula, plus help you get started on a skin rejuvenation and protection program of your own (especially important as the Summer sun heats up), we have special-purchased Rejuvenex so we can offer it to you at a lower introductory price.

This cream is rich, wonderful, contains “all the right stuff” as listed above, and more, and a little goes a long way. You need only apply it morning and evening to get great results. Both men and women will benefit. As an alternative, you can do as I was doing and mix your own ingredients, just be sure to include the above-listed items for best results.

To order Rejuvenex, CLICK HEREor call 1-800-376-9288

Antioxidants

Anti-Ageing with Vitamins and Herbs

Your Antioxidant Questions Answered

Ever watched in frustration as something “rusted away?” Well, your body could be undergoing a very similar process due to the effects of free radicals. Antioxidants are “rust proofing” for your body, and are an important part of any longevity and health program.

Antioxidants can be confusing – especially for someone without a background in biochemistry! They are very important to our good health though – so please read on, and I’ll try to make it easier to understand…

Antioxidants are molecules which “quench” and render free radicals harmless. (Usually by donating an electron).

Free radicals are unstable molecules with an unpaired electron. As they “steal” electrons from other molecules, they damage normal cells.

What do free radicals do?
The damage caused by free radicals is called oxidation. Rust on metal is an example of oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This “rusting” or oxidative damage to human cells has been linked to many diseases including heart disease, atherosclerosis, arthritis, cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, immune suppression, Alzheimer’s and aging in general.

Where do free radicals come from?
Free radicals are generated in the body during normal cellular processes. Additional free radicals are generated in the body by stress (physical or emotional), environmental toxins (in air, water, food), smoking, alcohol, anesthetics and radiation.

Where do antioxidants come from?
The major antioxidants are made by the body itself. These include superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase. Certain vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutritional substances also perform as antioxidants. These are found in the foods we eat.

The body makes enough antioxidants to neutralize free radicals generated by normal metabolism. When additional free radicals are created by stress, poor nutrition, environmental toxins, smoking, etc., the body cannot “keep up” with the free radicals. These excess free radicals are then “free” to damage normal cells.

How do I protect myself from free radical damage?

1) Avoid or minimize exposure to things that create free radicals: smoking, environmental toxins, alcohol excess, stress.
2) Eat a nutritious diet so that the body can make it’s own “native” enzymes.
3) Take additional antioxidants by way of diet, nutritional supplements, and herbs to ensure protection from free radical damage.

Sources of Antioxidants:
Many herbs contain antioxidant substances. Fruits and vegetables are the primary dietary sources of antioxidants.

Super Foods  are those rich in antioxidants:
Apricot, artichoke, blueberry, all other berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cherries, citrus, “greens” (beet, collard, kale, mustard, turnip, etc.), lemons, soybeans, tangerines, tomatoes.

Antioxidant Nutrients:
Vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, mixed carotenes, selenium, zinc, bioflavonoids, cysteine & methionine (sulphur-containing amino acids), CoQ10, glutathione.

Antioxidant Herbs:
Artichoke, bilberry, ginger, ginkgo, grape seed extract (pycnogenols), green tea, hawthorne, milk thistle, olive leaf, rosemary, St. John’s Wort, turmeric.

Other Antioxidants:
Melatonin, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Yours In Health,

Dr. Dana Myatt

HealthBeat News

HealthBeat Update: What Are Your New Year’s Health Resolutions?

We all make ’em – those wonderful, hopeful, well-intentioned New-Year’s resolutions. We resolve to work harder, be more productive, be kind to others, pay more attention to our finances, and most importantly, we resolve to take better care of ourselves. Usually this means resolving to exercise, to eat less or even diet, to stop bad habits (C’mon, are you really still smoking? Shame on you, and you know it!), or to do other things that, while they are good for us, we often only manage to follow through on for a short while. Let’s look at it a different way: You could resolve to do or be any number of things in the new year, but what of it if you don’t have your health? Why not look after your health first, by doing some easy and achievable things, such as making sure you are taking the very best multivitamin possible, and making sure that your vitamin and supplement protocol is up to date with the very best and most up-to-date recommendations. Your multivitamin should be the very best you can get – of course we recommend Dr. Myatt’s MaxiMulti – if you take the time to compare labels you will see that no other multivitamin even comes close to offering what MaxiMulti does. It might seem more costly than the deep discount Big-Box-Store sale-of-the-week brand, but if you figure out how much of the other brand you must take (and extras you will need) to equal what is in MaxiMulti, the MaxiMulti becomes a great value indeed! Now, how long has it been since Dr. Myatt updated your chart and tuned up your vitamin and supplement protocol? I’ll bet that some things have changed for you medically over the last year, and I know that there is plenty of new and updated information that Dr. Myatt will be happy to share with you to make this next year healthier than ever. Why not take a moment to call and book a consultation to start the new year off right? Call 1-800-Dr. Myatt (376-9288)


Hot Flashes:“Liver Cleansing” – Worthwhile or Worthless?

Much has been made lately about “liver cleansing”, and “liver flushes.” There are books, websites, and countless herbal concoctions devoted to “cleansing and detoxifying” the liver (and other parts of the body). Well, what of it? Is this for real, or just another way to separate you from your hard-earned money?

Dr. Myatt’s patients often ask about “detoxification,” as if this could be accomplished by a single therapy or supplement. Because the body has multiple organs and organ systems for detoxifying itself, the real question must be “what do you want to detoxify?” Is your target the large intestine, the liver, the skin, the kidneys, or the extracellular fluids? Each of these organs of elimination and detoxification contributes to the body’s overall ability to rid itself of internal waste and externally introduced toxins. Therefore, detoxification techniques may involve one, several, or all organs related to the removal of toxic substances from the body.

We’ll look at this subject over the next few issues of HealthBeat – and for this issue we will examine the role of the liver. This organ converts endogenous and exogenous toxins into excretable metabolites. It is an amazing organ, capable of being insulted, damaged, and then repairing itself quite nicely. It is not invincible though, and we can do some things to help support it in it’s work. Perhaps the most important is to provide plenty of pure water – without water, biotransformation processes grind to a halt, and toxins accumulate.  Water is the single biggest detoxifier of the kidneys, liver, and extracellular fluid. Deficiencies of any vitamin, mineral, or trace mineral can slow or even halt the detoxification pathways. B complex vitamins, beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium and molybdenum are particularly important in detoxification and are well supplied by Dr. Myatt’s MaxiMulti supplements. Freshly ground Flax seed is an important source of lignans and Omega 3 fatty acids and should be used daily. Dr. Myatt’s MaxiGreens provide a broad spectrum of “greens” and flavonoids including ginkgo biloba, bilberry, green tea, milk thistle, and grape seed and pine bark for their pycnogenols.

More specific to the liver are Milk thistle, dietary sulfur, and indoles (found in cruciferous vegetables.) Milk thistle is a powerful antioxidant and stimulates liver cell regeneration. Sulfur is an important element in many of the detoxification processes of the liver and is easily destroyed by cooking, as are the indoles. MaxiGreens are an excellent source of indoles. Dr. Myatt’s MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) supplies needed fundamental sulfur. Milk Thistle Plus has been carefully formulated by Dr. Myatt to be the best supplement available for liver protection and healing.

So, what is the bottom line? Well, your liver is not like a toilet – you can’t just “flush it” – but you can support and protect it as it does it’s important work for you. “Liver Flushing” as described and promoted by some can be a risky business, and anyone thinking that they need to do this should really consult with Dr. Myatt before starting. Depending on the details of your situation Dr. Myatt will have a number of other specific recommendations for safe and effective detoxification. Book your consultation by calling 1 – 800 – Dr. Myatt (376 – 9288).

Dr. Myatt’s comment: You can’t simply do a “flush” to absolve months or years of bad habits! Improved diet and liver-loving herbs, taken consistently over time, are the healthful way to rejuvenate and “cleanse” your liver and other organs.


Featured Supplements: Support for your liver:
Click on any underlined supplement to order your supply or call 1-800-DR MYATT (376-9288)

MaxiMulti:We talk about this supplement over and over again, because it is a cornerstone to any good health program. MaxiMulti provides not just minimal doses, but optimal doses of vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, and nutritional co-factors that are absolutely necessary for your body to function at it’s peak. B complex vitamins, beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium and molybdenum are particularly important in detoxification, and are included in MaxiMulti with digestive enzymes added to ensure absorption. If you are trying to support your liver you must not neglect this valuable and necessary supplement!

MaxiGreensare a complete herbal phytonutrient formula and contain a full spectrum of the most widely-researched flavonoid herbs: ginkgo biloba, bilberry, green tea, milk thistle, and grape seed & pine bark (pycnogenols), plus indole-containing herbs: brocolli and cauliflower, and high chlorophyll / mineral-rich herbs: alfalfa, wheat grass, barley grass, wheat sprout. With gut-healthy probiotics (good gut bacteria) and Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) included in the formula these capsules are easy to assimilate and have bromelain added to ensure absorption. MaxiGreens, taken every day, will provide extra phytonutrients as part of a solid foundation to your healthy lifestyle.

Milk Thistle PlusMilk thistle (silybum marianum) has been the subject of over 100 clinical trials, primarily exploring it’s role in liver disease. It powerfully protects the liver from the effects of environmental toxins (such as carbon tetrachloride, acetaminophen, iron overload, mushroom poisoning). It is used in Emergency Room medicine in Europe for exposure to liver-toxic agents. Milk thistle is a powerful antioxidant, especially to the liver. It also stimulates liver cell regeneration. It has been proven useful for all types of liver disease, including alcoholic liver sclerosis, hepatitis, protection from environmental toxins, and protection from the liver-toxic effects of many drugs. Milk Thistle Plus additionally contains Tumeric root extract and Artichoke leaf extract to enhance it’s effectiveness. Suggested dose for liver support: 1 capsule three times daily with meals.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a source of biologically active sulfur. Sulfur is a mineral that is plentiful in the human body and is found in particularly high concentrations in structural tissues (joints, skin, hair, nails), and serum proteins (transferrin, albumin, and immunoglobulin). Clinical studies have shown MSM to benefit arthritis, immunity, constipation, and circulation. Although sulfur occurs widely in food, it is highly volatile and easily destroyed by even moderate processing or heating. Each capsule contains 1000mg. Suggested dose for liver support: 1000mg three times daily with meals.

Dr. Myatt’s comment: Before you even think of doing some questionable “Cleansing Routine” or “Liver Flush,” make sure you are doing everything you can to support your own body’s detoxification systems. You’ll find more information on this subject on page 56 in my Holistic Health Handbook. If you don’t have a Holistic Health Handbook, you need one – it is a goldmine of valuable information! Click here, and order yours now.


Ask Dr. Myatt: How long will vitamins and herbs keep?

Q: There are numbers and dates on my supplements. Are these important? Should I be worried about my supplements “expiring”?

A: That depends on the product and the form that it is in. Most quality herbal and nutritional supplements have an expiration date on the label, but this date does not reflect the whole story.

Herbal tinctures and fluid extracts, especially if made from potent herbs to begin with, are the longest lasting of any product. Dr. Sharol Tilgner of Wise Woman Herbals, our primary herbal provider, now dates tinctures with a 7 year expiration date. Dr. Tilgner believes that this is a conservative dating process, and I concur. A well-made tincture is potent and useable for up to 20 years from the time it is made. Now, “here’s the rub.” Many herbal products – and I do mean many – are made from dried herbs that have lost their potency BEFORE the tincture is made. These products are weak to begin with. Although they will “keep” for many years, their strength is questionable. The herbal tinctures that we select for Wellness Club are some of the most potent products available. These liquid tincture formulas will be fully potent 10 years from now (conservatively) and I wouldn’t hesitate to use them 20 years hence. Any encapsulated product, whether herbal or nutritional, has a much shorter shelf-life. This is because of a process called “oxidation.” Individual particles in herbs or nutrients are exposed to air. This is true for both gelatin capsules and tablets.

A super potent herb formula in capsule form (remember, many are not potent to begin with) will be potent 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. (On our products, this date is stamped.) In other words, the product will be potent 1 year beyond the expiration date.

Nutritional supplements are a bit trickier, because different vitamins have different shelf-lives. Dr. Jaques at Tyler Encapsulations (one of our major supplement suppliers) offers this:
Vitamin C: up to 5 years
Vitamin B’s: 3 years
Vitamin A: unknown
Vitamin D: indefinitely
Vitamin E: 2 years (except mixed tocopherols, which may last 3-5 years)
Mineral formulas: 10+ years
Enzymes: 2 years

All supplements, whether herbal or nutritional, will last longer if frozen. So… if you stock up, keep unopened products in your freezer or in a cool, dark, moisture-free place to extend shelf life up to 3 times the stamped expiration date.