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by author Mark Stengler, ND
In June 2002 the Journal of the American Medical Association published an article that concluded nutritional deficiencies are an important cause of chronic disease. Although this was old news to the nutritional world, it did serve to increase awareness of the health benefits of daily supplements.
Studies have long proven the benefits of supplementation. Here is the research on the 10 best supplements shown to offer the greatest health benefits when used regularly, at the proper dosage.
1. Super green foods
Most Canadians struggle to consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, the minimum found to prevent heart disease and a variety of cancers. Why worry when you can get the nutritional value of disease-fighting fruits and vegetables with super green foods? Green foods are available as single ingredients, such as spirulina, chlorella, wheat grass, and barley grass, or in formulations of several ingredients.
Let’s first look at spirulina. Blue-green algae that grow wild in warm-water alkaline volcanic lakes, spirulina has a high biological value that makes it a highly bioavailable protein source without toxicity. It also contains all the essential amino acids and has an amino acid content that ranges from 62 to 71 percent.
Spirulina contains beta-carotene, as well as chlorophyll and the essential fatty acid GLA. Phycocyanin, its phytonutrient, has been shown in animal studies to stimulate the production of red blood cells. Among the more than 100 published scientific references relating to spirulina are studies that show spirulina possesses anticancer effects and antiviral properties.
Mark Stengler, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor, co-author of Prescription for Natural Cures (Wiley, 2004), and author of Bottom Line’s Natural Healing newsletter.thenaturalphysician.com.
Source: alive #274, August 2005
Pancreatic Enzymes
Each day the pancreas secretes about 1.7 litres of pancreatic juice in the small intestine. In this juice are enzymes--including lipases, proteases and amylases--required for the digestion and absorption of food..
Each day the pancreas secretes about 1.7 litres of pancreatic juice in the small intestine. In this juice are enzymes--including lipases, proteases and amylases--required for the digestion and absorption of food..
Herbal Medicine in the New Millennium
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
Probiotics
Friendly bacteria are called probiotics, meaning "for life" (in contrast to anti-biotics which means "against life"). Probiotics, in essence, balance the internal environment and are essential to health in many ways.
Friendly bacteria are called probiotics, meaning "for life" (in contrast to anti-biotics which means "against life"). Probiotics, in essence, balance the internal environment and are essential to health in many ways.
CoQ10
Skin care products have become very sophisticated over the past 10 years. A look at the label of any well-researched and effective formula reveals the most up-to-date ingredients. AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) gently remove dead cells from the surface of the skin.
Skin care products have become very sophisticated over the past 10 years. A look at the label of any well-researched and effective formula reveals the most up-to-date ingredients. AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) gently remove dead cells from the surface of the skin.
Cancer
Cancer develops when cells in the body function abnormally and multiply uncontrollably--a process which eventually leads to tumor growth. A healthy body routinely detects and eliminates abnormal cells.
Cancer develops when cells in the body function abnormally and multiply uncontrollably--a process which eventually leads to tumor growth. A healthy body routinely detects and eliminates abnormal cells.
Bone Up on Bone Disease
In North America, osteoporosis continues to be the single most common bone disease, with 40 per cent of all white women developing it in their lifetime. Yet in several other countries throughout the world, almost no one develops it.
In North America, osteoporosis continues to be the single most common bone disease, with 40 per cent of all white women developing it in their lifetime. Yet in several other countries throughout the world, almost no one develops it.
Wild Garlic Simply The Best
Scientific Studies Reveal More Facts The healing power of common garlic (Allium sativum) is well-known by many.
Scientific Studies Reveal More Facts The healing power of common garlic (Allium sativum) is well-known by many.
Gardening With Garlic
With the gardening season coming to a close, avid gardeners are rushing to get in that last bit of planting--bulbs! A marvelous bulb that is often overlooked for fall planting is garlic. Garlic is a positively versatile herb.
With the gardening season coming to a close, avid gardeners are rushing to get in that last bit of planting--bulbs! A marvelous bulb that is often overlooked for fall planting is garlic. Garlic is a positively versatile herb.
Introduce Your Heart to Coenzyme Q10
From heart problems to Huntington's disease, coenzyme Q10 (coQ10) could be the key nutrient you need to complete your prevention or recovery plan. This nutrient, which is essential to our body's production of cellular energy, is synthesized in the body. Therefore it is not, by strict definition, a vitamin.
From heart problems to Huntington's disease, coenzyme Q10 (coQ10) could be the key nutrient you need to complete your prevention or recovery plan. This nutrient, which is essential to our body's production of cellular energy, is synthesized in the body. Therefore it is not, by strict definition, a vitamin.
Wild Garlic
Wild garlic (Allium ursinum), used for centuries to treat various ailments, is one of the most versatile plants on earth. Unfortunately it had been forgotten until 1988, when new research was done. The results were amazing and even caught scientists by surprise: wild garlic is superior to common garlic (Allium sativum)..
Wild garlic (Allium ursinum), used for centuries to treat various ailments, is one of the most versatile plants on earth. Unfortunately it had been forgotten until 1988, when new research was done. The results were amazing and even caught scientists by surprise: wild garlic is superior to common garlic (Allium sativum)..
Probiotics
Probiotics may well become the miracle of the 21st century. These friendly flora--probiotics means "for life"--actually function as a second immune system. Unfortunately, we all too often overlook them as the vital key to health and well-being.
Probiotics may well become the miracle of the 21st century. These friendly flora--probiotics means "for life"--actually function as a second immune system. Unfortunately, we all too often overlook them as the vital key to health and well-being.
Herbs for Your Heart
It's easy to forget about the heart, as it does its job automaticall.
It's easy to forget about the heart, as it does its job automaticall.
Enzymes: The Secret of Life?
Of all the major elements of nutrition, enzymes are the least understood, the least written about and provide the most underestimated contribution to life and healt.
Of all the major elements of nutrition, enzymes are the least understood, the least written about and provide the most underestimated contribution to life and healt.
Green Drinks for Christmas Zest
Christmas is an inspirational time--an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the good will that permeates the plane.
Christmas is an inspirational time--an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the good will that permeates the plane.
Healthy Bugs
Probiotics is the name for these beneficial bacteria, which the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the US (FAO) define as "live microorganisms, which when administered .
Probiotics is the name for these beneficial bacteria, which the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the US (FAO) define as "live microorganisms, which when administered .
Anti-Cancer Antioxidants
Imagine the cells in your body turning brown just like an apple does when exposed to the oxygen in the air.
Imagine the cells in your body turning brown just like an apple does when exposed to the oxygen in the air.
Consumer's Guide to Benefical Bacteria
Going probiotic shopping? Read this before you buy. Though you may not be aware of it, your gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by thriving colonies of more than 400 types of micro-organisms. Not all of them are friendly.
Going probiotic shopping? Read this before you buy. Though you may not be aware of it, your gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by thriving colonies of more than 400 types of micro-organisms. Not all of them are friendly.
Enzymes: The Sparks of Life
Let's face it: times have changed. We've adopted a modern lifestyle with faster-paced, more hectic days and, probably more significantly, eating habits that include the consumption of industrialized, processed food. People today are sick..
Let's face it: times have changed. We've adopted a modern lifestyle with faster-paced, more hectic days and, probably more significantly, eating habits that include the consumption of industrialized, processed food. People today are sick..
Garlic
Health benefits of the worlds#1-selling herb confirmed by science.
Health benefits of the worlds#1-selling herb confirmed by science.
Green Power
In the 1950s, Ann Wigmore opened the Hippocrates Health Institute, a non-profit foundation in Boston, and began treating people with wheatgrass juice an.
In the 1950s, Ann Wigmore opened the Hippocrates Health Institute, a non-profit foundation in Boston, and began treating people with wheatgrass juice an.
Coenzyme Q10
Health claims Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a supplement with antioxidant and energy-enhancing properties that make it popular for treating a variety of health pro.
Health claims Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a supplement with antioxidant and energy-enhancing properties that make it popular for treating a variety of health pro.
3 Key Supplements for a Healthy Heart
Today, your heart will beat at least 100,000 times, pumping 2,500 to 5,000 gallons of blood through the 60,000 miles of blood vessels within your body. Amazing, but tru.
Today, your heart will beat at least 100,000 times, pumping 2,500 to 5,000 gallons of blood through the 60,000 miles of blood vessels within your body. Amazing, but tru.
The Battle for Your Bones
As more and more North Americans are affected by osteoporosis, the disease has received increased attention by media and medical researcher.
As more and more North Americans are affected by osteoporosis, the disease has received increased attention by media and medical researcher.
Bacterial Buddies
Let's face it, bacteria have earned a bad reputation because we associate them with disease. We go to great lengths to keep them at bay using antibiotics and antibacterials.
Let's face it, bacteria have earned a bad reputation because we associate them with disease. We go to great lengths to keep them at bay using antibiotics and antibacterials.
Strong Bones for Life
If you've been watching the news, you've probably seen the grim statistics on osteoporosis, a heartbreaking condition that forces more people into nursing homes than almost any other.
If you've been watching the news, you've probably seen the grim statistics on osteoporosis, a heartbreaking condition that forces more people into nursing homes than almost any other.
Practical Prevention Plan
Adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine provides extra insurance that you are getting sufficient levels of important oils.
Adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine provides extra insurance that you are getting sufficient levels of important oils.
There's No Life Without Friendly Bacteria!
Among all the people that influenced my professional futureand left a profound impression in my life is Gaylord Hause.
Among all the people that influenced my professional futureand left a profound impression in my life is Gaylord Hause.
Nourishing the Gastrointestinal Tract
Modern day agricultural practices include the use of germicides, radiation and fungicides meant to kill harmful bacteria and other micro-organisms. They also kill beneficial bacteria, leaving our foodstuffs virtually sterile.
Modern day agricultural practices include the use of germicides, radiation and fungicides meant to kill harmful bacteria and other micro-organisms. They also kill beneficial bacteria, leaving our foodstuffs virtually sterile.
Reel in Some Fish Oil
Although best known for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and arthritis, one of the hottest areas of omega-3 fatty acid research is related to brain health and behaviour.
Although best known for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and arthritis, one of the hottest areas of omega-3 fatty acid research is related to brain health and behaviour.
Canadian Lecture Tour
Calcium
Our bodies need calcium more than any other mineral to ensure bone and muscle health. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health..
Our bodies need calcium more than any other mineral to ensure bone and muscle health. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health..
Developing Your Personal Nutrient Plan
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health. alive features an important nutrient each month.
Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health. alive features an important nutrient each month.
How to Slow Cellular Aging-Fast!
Did you know your body's cells host visitors from another time and place? The mitochondria, energy-producing factories in every one of your cells, are descendants of independent, free-living organisms. Mitochondria have unique DNA, separate and distinct from cellular DNA.
Did you know your body's cells host visitors from another time and place? The mitochondria, energy-producing factories in every one of your cells, are descendants of independent, free-living organisms. Mitochondria have unique DNA, separate and distinct from cellular DNA.
Calcium
As women reach their early 50s, their bodies undergo many changes, including the beginning stages of menopause and a decrease in bone mass of 3 percent or more per year that can ultimately result in osteoporosis.
As women reach their early 50s, their bodies undergo many changes, including the beginning stages of menopause and a decrease in bone mass of 3 percent or more per year that can ultimately result in osteoporosis.
Enzymes-the Spark Plugs of Life
There are about 2,800 different enzymes involved in human bodily processes. This multitude is necessary for digestion and metabolism to run efficiently, and each enzyme has a special job to do.
There are about 2,800 different enzymes involved in human bodily processes. This multitude is necessary for digestion and metabolism to run efficiently, and each enzyme has a special job to do.
Multivitamins and Minerals
Multivitamins and minerals are basic components of a good nutritional program. Dietary surveys have consistently shown that we simply do not get enough of the basic elements in our diet despite having an overabundance of nutrient-rich foods available to us.
Multivitamins and minerals are basic components of a good nutritional program. Dietary surveys have consistently shown that we simply do not get enough of the basic elements in our diet despite having an overabundance of nutrient-rich foods available to us.
Alcohol and Body Fat - the Truth Revealed
The holiday season is a time for rejoicing with friends and family and along with the fun often comes plenty of alcoholic beverages. Before you indulge, take a closer look at the way alcohol affects your 30 billion fat cells.
The holiday season is a time for rejoicing with friends and family and along with the fun often comes plenty of alcoholic beverages. Before you indulge, take a closer look at the way alcohol affects your 30 billion fat cells.
Green Means Go
Green foods - including barley and wheat grass (cereal grasses), alfalfa and spirulina - have been with us for decades, in some cases centurie.
Green foods - including barley and wheat grass (cereal grasses), alfalfa and spirulina - have been with us for decades, in some cases centurie.
Powerful, Proven, Essential Fruits and Vegetables
Recent surveys indicate that less than nine per cent of North Americans consume five or more servings of fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads daily.
Recent surveys indicate that less than nine per cent of North Americans consume five or more servings of fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads daily.
Aged Garlic Extract
Recognized in folk medicine for over 5,000 years and confirmed by modern science, garlic has a wide range of health effects.
Recognized in folk medicine for over 5,000 years and confirmed by modern science, garlic has a wide range of health effects.
Parkinson's Disease-Treat the Fire, Not the Smoke
It has been estimated that in the United States and Canada more than 1.2 million people suffer from Parkinson's disease. That translates to about one to two cases per 1,000 individuals in the general population.
It has been estimated that in the United States and Canada more than 1.2 million people suffer from Parkinson's disease. That translates to about one to two cases per 1,000 individuals in the general population.
Kyolic
If it weren't for the bad breath that results after eating, garlic would be the best-selling food supplement. Its health benefits are well known: garlic increases longevity and improves heart conditions, high blood pressure, and circulation.
If it weren't for the bad breath that results after eating, garlic would be the best-selling food supplement. Its health benefits are well known: garlic increases longevity and improves heart conditions, high blood pressure, and circulation.
The ABCs of Hypothyroidism
Thyroid hormones affect every cell in the body. In hypothyroidism, the amount of hormone secreted by the thyroid gland does not meet the body's demands.
Thyroid hormones affect every cell in the body. In hypothyroidism, the amount of hormone secreted by the thyroid gland does not meet the body's demands.
What Are Enzymes?
Enzymes are proteins (complex chains of amino acids) that play a role in all chemical functions in the body including digestion, energy production, and repair of tissues, organs, and cells.
Enzymes are proteins (complex chains of amino acids) that play a role in all chemical functions in the body including digestion, energy production, and repair of tissues, organs, and cells.
Crohn's Disease
We have all checked with our gut from time to time to make major decisions, but imagine having to check in for the most basic of lifestyle choice.
We have all checked with our gut from time to time to make major decisions, but imagine having to check in for the most basic of lifestyle choice.
Is Your Multi Pure?
Most multivitamins contain numerous artificial excipients: inert substances such as gum arabic, syrup, lanolin, or starch that are used to facilitate the manufacture of a pill.
Most multivitamins contain numerous artificial excipients: inert substances such as gum arabic, syrup, lanolin, or starch that are used to facilitate the manufacture of a pill.
Coenzyme Q10 and the Human Energy Crisis
The production of energy in the body's trillions of cells is the greatest mystery of lif.
The production of energy in the body's trillions of cells is the greatest mystery of lif.
New Roots Herbal
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Shopping List for a Healthy Heart
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
Your Detox-Product Shopping List
From the car fumes we breathe to the pesticide residues on our foods, toxic contaminants are, sadly, a daily reality. Your local health food store is your best source of the wide range of natural foods, herbs, and supplements needed to support natural detoxification.
From the car fumes we breathe to the pesticide residues on our foods, toxic contaminants are, sadly, a daily reality. Your local health food store is your best source of the wide range of natural foods, herbs, and supplements needed to support natural detoxification.
The Nanobacteria Revolution
Are heart disease, dental plaque, kidney stones, and a host of other calcium-deposit diseases really caused by an infection? Research in the past decade suggests that diseases in which calcium accumulates inappropriately in the body (i.e.
Are heart disease, dental plaque, kidney stones, and a host of other calcium-deposit diseases really caused by an infection? Research in the past decade suggests that diseases in which calcium accumulates inappropriately in the body (i.e.
Just Lose It!
Over half of all North Americans are considered overweight, so it's not surprising that there is great interest in weight loss supplement.
Over half of all North Americans are considered overweight, so it's not surprising that there is great interest in weight loss supplement.
Calcium
If you're anything like the average consumer, you're likely confused by the dizzying array of calcium supplements on the marke.
If you're anything like the average consumer, you're likely confused by the dizzying array of calcium supplements on the marke.
Spotlight on Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is an essential component of the energy-producing unit of our cells, the mitochondri.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is an essential component of the energy-producing unit of our cells, the mitochondri.
Good to the Bone
The Osteoporosis Society of Canada estimates 1.4 million Canadians suffer from osteoporosis, and more women die every year as a result of osteoporotic fractures than from breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined.
The Osteoporosis Society of Canada estimates 1.4 million Canadians suffer from osteoporosis, and more women die every year as a result of osteoporotic fractures than from breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined.
The Energy Trio
When we are young, our bodies have a tremendous ability to repair. This is called anabolic metabolism - the ability to repair our cells faster then they break down. Anabolic metabolism also creates a great atmosphere for fat burning and muscle enhancement. In other words, instead of merely living, we feel truly alive.
When we are young, our bodies have a tremendous ability to repair. This is called anabolic metabolism - the ability to repair our cells faster then they break down. Anabolic metabolism also creates a great atmosphere for fat burning and muscle enhancement. In other words, instead of merely living, we feel truly alive.
Spirulina
Spirulina, also known as phyto-plankton, are tiny, green, one-celled algae that thrive in warm, alkaline, fresh water. Named for its spiral shape, spirulina is probably one of the earliest life forms on earth, dating back 3.6 billion years.
Spirulina, also known as phyto-plankton, are tiny, green, one-celled algae that thrive in warm, alkaline, fresh water. Named for its spiral shape, spirulina is probably one of the earliest life forms on earth, dating back 3.6 billion years.
Alkalinity
Your brain and body are extremely sensitive to the slightest change in the pH level of your body's vital fluids. A pH of less than seven is considered acidic, and more than seven is considered alkaline.
Your brain and body are extremely sensitive to the slightest change in the pH level of your body's vital fluids. A pH of less than seven is considered acidic, and more than seven is considered alkaline.
Veggie-ing Out
Whether it's a salad before the main meal or greens in a glass, research shows that eating fresh vegetables can help you shed unwanted pounds and improve your health.
Whether it's a salad before the main meal or greens in a glass, research shows that eating fresh vegetables can help you shed unwanted pounds and improve your health.
Multiple Choices
For once, the health experts agree. Medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and scientists are all dispensing the same advice: "Take a daily multiple vitamin and mineral to fill in the nutritional gaps in your diet.
For once, the health experts agree. Medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and scientists are all dispensing the same advice: "Take a daily multiple vitamin and mineral to fill in the nutritional gaps in your diet.
Enlist Garlic
Papers presented at the 2005 Garlic Symposium in Washington, DC, held April 9 to 11, report the current scientific research into the effects of garlic on heart health and cancer...
Papers presented at the 2005 Garlic Symposium in Washington, DC, held April 9 to 11, report the current scientific research into the effects of garlic on heart health and cancer...
Gulp, Don't Gag
Big gulps, burgers, chips, chocolate bars, and video games...sound familiar? Keeping children healthy in today's super-sized, convenience-food, fast-paced environment is immensely challenging. It is better to start today by creating a healthy lifestyle for our children than it is to deal with the health problems that may develop down the road.
Big gulps, burgers, chips, chocolate bars, and video games...sound familiar? Keeping children healthy in today's super-sized, convenience-food, fast-paced environment is immensely challenging. It is better to start today by creating a healthy lifestyle for our children than it is to deal with the health problems that may develop down the road.
Probiotics For Life
The key to good health is to boost levels of probiotic or beneficial bacteria strains in the body while at the same time minimizing the proliferation of unhealthy bacteria. It's that simple.
The key to good health is to boost levels of probiotic or beneficial bacteria strains in the body while at the same time minimizing the proliferation of unhealthy bacteria. It's that simple.
What's Old is New
The phrase "functional food is everywhere these days, but what does it mean? From a natural health perspective, functional food refers to nutritionally superior food products that have been enhanced through processing, fermentation, or growth technologies.
The phrase "functional food is everywhere these days, but what does it mean? From a natural health perspective, functional food refers to nutritionally superior food products that have been enhanced through processing, fermentation, or growth technologies.
Probiotics
Without these probiotic microorganisms, we could not survive. They help digest food, especially fats and proteins, they make vitamins like vitamin B12 and vitamin K that our bodies can't make and they inhibit pathogenic bacteria.
Without these probiotic microorganisms, we could not survive. They help digest food, especially fats and proteins, they make vitamins like vitamin B12 and vitamin K that our bodies can't make and they inhibit pathogenic bacteria.
Probiotics or Prebiotics?
In the right places and amounts, bacteria can actually be valuable to our health and wellness. Beneficial bacteria found in probiotics such as yogourt and prebiotics such as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) can keep the digestive system functioning normally.
In the right places and amounts, bacteria can actually be valuable to our health and wellness. Beneficial bacteria found in probiotics such as yogourt and prebiotics such as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) can keep the digestive system functioning normally.
All Aglow
From sunburn to psoriasis, acne to eczema, inflammation is often the common thread in most skin conditions. As nutritional medicine advances, it is becoming increasingly clear that a diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish can influence inflammation and promote healthy skin.
From sunburn to psoriasis, acne to eczema, inflammation is often the common thread in most skin conditions. As nutritional medicine advances, it is becoming increasingly clear that a diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish can influence inflammation and promote healthy skin.
Preventing Osteoporosis
While we think of a stooped-over old woman as symbolic of osteoporosis, this debilitating disease occurs over a lifetime. If either parent or any of your siblings have had an osteoporotic fracture, your risk for the disease is doubled, but that doesn't mean it's inevitable.
While we think of a stooped-over old woman as symbolic of osteoporosis, this debilitating disease occurs over a lifetime. If either parent or any of your siblings have had an osteoporotic fracture, your risk for the disease is doubled, but that doesn't mean it's inevitable.
Sweet Talk
Medical researchers say we have more control over our blood sugar levels than we may realize. Scores of published studies support the use of a variety of nutritional and herbal supplements in combination with a high-fibre, nutritionally balanced diet as the best natural approach to blood sugar control.
Medical researchers say we have more control over our blood sugar levels than we may realize. Scores of published studies support the use of a variety of nutritional and herbal supplements in combination with a high-fibre, nutritionally balanced diet as the best natural approach to blood sugar control.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Support
In Canada, six million people suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and currently its symptoms are second only to the common cold as the most frequent cause of absenteeism from work and school. IBS is commonly characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel function such as constipation and diarrhea. Some people have mild symptoms, while others have chronic, disabling symptoms.
In Canada, six million people suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and currently its symptoms are second only to the common cold as the most frequent cause of absenteeism from work and school. IBS is commonly characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel function such as constipation and diarrhea. Some people have mild symptoms, while others have chronic, disabling symptoms.
Eating to Live
Promote better intestinal health by maximizing the benefits to be derived from these four pillars: probiotics, phytochemicals, digestive enzymes, and dietary fibre.
Promote better intestinal health by maximizing the benefits to be derived from these four pillars: probiotics, phytochemicals, digestive enzymes, and dietary fibre.
Gut Feelings
We often think of bad bacteria as the cause of infection that needs antibiotic treatment. Probiotics can help you replenish good intestinal bacteria that are vital to digestive health.
We often think of bad bacteria as the cause of infection that needs antibiotic treatment. Probiotics can help you replenish good intestinal bacteria that are vital to digestive health.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory condition that most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, although it may be present anywhere within the digestive tube. The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can extend deep into the lining of the affected organ. Symptoms, often exacerbated by stressful conditions, include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and nutritional deficiencies.
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory condition that most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, although it may be present anywhere within the digestive tube. The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can extend deep into the lining of the affected organ. Symptoms, often exacerbated by stressful conditions, include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and nutritional deficiencies.
Heart Health in a Heartbeat
Each day the human heart beats 100,000 times and pumps up to 5,000 gallons of blood. That's a lot of work, and it illustrates how essential the heart is in delivering oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body. Having a healthy heart and circulatory system is essential to a long and healthy life.
Each day the human heart beats 100,000 times and pumps up to 5,000 gallons of blood. That's a lot of work, and it illustrates how essential the heart is in delivering oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body. Having a healthy heart and circulatory system is essential to a long and healthy life.
Heartfelt Shopping
We've all heard the morbid statistics telling us heart attacks and strokes are the top killers of Canadian men and women. However, heart disease is usually preventable. Rarely do the conditions and symptoms leading to heart disease require more than a dedicated change of habits.
We've all heard the morbid statistics telling us heart attacks and strokes are the top killers of Canadian men and women. However, heart disease is usually preventable. Rarely do the conditions and symptoms leading to heart disease require more than a dedicated change of habits.
Profile of Dr. Andrew Weil
Andrew Weil is definitely changing the face of medicine. His familiar, white-bearded face has beamed at us from the cover of TIME magazine twice in the last nine years, most recently last October when his new book, Healthy Aging (Knopf, 2005) hit the stands.
Andrew Weil is definitely changing the face of medicine. His familiar, white-bearded face has beamed at us from the cover of TIME magazine twice in the last nine years, most recently last October when his new book, Healthy Aging (Knopf, 2005) hit the stands.
Garlic the Great
Garlic is powerful, pungent medicine that adds zest to most recipes. In many traditional cultures, garlic has been used as a remedy for various ailments. Now, modern medicine is proving you can get the health benefits of garlic in a capsule and avoid the social ostracism that often accompanies fragrant garlic lovers.
Garlic is powerful, pungent medicine that adds zest to most recipes. In many traditional cultures, garlic has been used as a remedy for various ailments. Now, modern medicine is proving you can get the health benefits of garlic in a capsule and avoid the social ostracism that often accompanies fragrant garlic lovers.
Probiotics
The word probiotic is derived from the Greek language and literally means "for life. It describes the beneficial bacteria that inhabit the human intestinal tract. To a very large extent, the intestinal flora play a major role in the health of the host; therefore, probiotics can be used to promote overall good health. However, there are numerous specific uses for probiotics based upon clinical studies.
The word probiotic is derived from the Greek language and literally means "for life. It describes the beneficial bacteria that inhabit the human intestinal tract. To a very large extent, the intestinal flora play a major role in the health of the host; therefore, probiotics can be used to promote overall good health. However, there are numerous specific uses for probiotics based upon clinical studies.
Beyond Bones
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for good health, and we often hear about their benefits to our bones. But these vital nutrients are involved in many other body processes as well. In addition to building strong bones and teeth, it strengthens muscle contraction, improves nerve transmission and blood clotting, regulates heart beat, and activates enzymes.
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for good health, and we often hear about their benefits to our bones. But these vital nutrients are involved in many other body processes as well. In addition to building strong bones and teeth, it strengthens muscle contraction, improves nerve transmission and blood clotting, regulates heart beat, and activates enzymes.
Navigating the Supplement Maze
Your first trip to the local natural health store's supplements aisle can be overwhelming. The myriad of nutrient and herbal helpers that populate the shelves can make it difficult to navigate your way to just the right supplements for your own good health.
Your first trip to the local natural health store's supplements aisle can be overwhelming. The myriad of nutrient and herbal helpers that populate the shelves can make it difficult to navigate your way to just the right supplements for your own good health.
We're Pregnant! Now What?
"How do I ensure a healthy pregnancy? You can have a healthy pregnancy by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet augmented with the right supplements for baby and maternal health, making sure exercise is part of your weekly routine, and maintaining a healthy weight.
"How do I ensure a healthy pregnancy? You can have a healthy pregnancy by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet augmented with the right supplements for baby and maternal health, making sure exercise is part of your weekly routine, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Yeast
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
Back to Basics
Building your strongest nutritional foundation begins with two basic steps: eating a balanced nutritious diet and taking a high-quality daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. This back-to-basics strategy has proven effective for young and old alike.
Building your strongest nutritional foundation begins with two basic steps: eating a balanced nutritious diet and taking a high-quality daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. This back-to-basics strategy has proven effective for young and old alike.
The Importance of Probiotics
The term probiotic is derived from the Greek and means "for life. It is used to describe the beneficial bacteria that inhabit the human intestinal tract. The intestinal flora play a major role in the health of the host, and probiotic supplements can be used to promote overall good health.
The term probiotic is derived from the Greek and means "for life. It is used to describe the beneficial bacteria that inhabit the human intestinal tract. The intestinal flora play a major role in the health of the host, and probiotic supplements can be used to promote overall good health.
Sushi-Can It Prevent Lung Cancer?
After observing the eating patterns of 5,885 Japanese residents over 14 years, scientists at the Aichi Cancer Center found that participants who ate large amounts of both fresh fish and shell fish (common ingredients used in sushi cookery) significantly decreased their risk of developing lung cancer, regardless of their age or gender.
After observing the eating patterns of 5,885 Japanese residents over 14 years, scientists at the Aichi Cancer Center found that participants who ate large amounts of both fresh fish and shell fish (common ingredients used in sushi cookery) significantly decreased their risk of developing lung cancer, regardless of their age or gender.
Allicin
Researchers are exploring the medicinal possibilities of garlic, especially its main constituent, allicin. Research suggests that garlic may have health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, protecting the heart and arteries, boosting immunity, increasing anti-allergy effects, and helping in cancer prevention and therapy.
Researchers are exploring the medicinal possibilities of garlic, especially its main constituent, allicin. Research suggests that garlic may have health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, protecting the heart and arteries, boosting immunity, increasing anti-allergy effects, and helping in cancer prevention and therapy.
Moving on Up!
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Calcium
North Americans are the highest consumers of dairy products and calcium supplements in the world. So why do we still have the highest osteoporosis rates? Recommended daily allowances vary from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day worldwide. So how much is enough? The maximum benefit appears to be within the range of 800 and 1,000 mg daily.
North Americans are the highest consumers of dairy products and calcium supplements in the world. So why do we still have the highest osteoporosis rates? Recommended daily allowances vary from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day worldwide. So how much is enough? The maximum benefit appears to be within the range of 800 and 1,000 mg daily.
Ginger Garlic Gourmet
Ginger and garlic are the dynamic duo of good health. Their medicinal properties have been recorded by diverse ancient cultures. Recent research studies praise them both as safe and effective natural remedies.
Ginger and garlic are the dynamic duo of good health. Their medicinal properties have been recorded by diverse ancient cultures. Recent research studies praise them both as safe and effective natural remedies.
Swiss Herbal
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Nu-Life
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
Genuine Health
Like many top natural health companies, Genuine Health grew out of humble origins-in this case, a small health food store.
Like many top natural health companies, Genuine Health grew out of humble origins-in this case, a small health food store.
Garlic the Protector
The newest research on garlic has given us increasing insight into the prophylactic and therapeutic breadth of this amazing bulb. Though I have been investigating garlic research for more than 20 years, I remain surprised by the powerful effects of garlic on the major killer diseases of society.
The newest research on garlic has given us increasing insight into the prophylactic and therapeutic breadth of this amazing bulb. Though I have been investigating garlic research for more than 20 years, I remain surprised by the powerful effects of garlic on the major killer diseases of society.
Good-for-You Bacteria
Bacteria have invaded our home refrigerators. Yes, even the tidiest and most immaculately clean fridges may be harbouring these little bugs. But the bacteria I refer to aren't clinging to a back corner; they are found in food and they are good for you!
Bacteria have invaded our home refrigerators. Yes, even the tidiest and most immaculately clean fridges may be harbouring these little bugs. But the bacteria I refer to aren't clinging to a back corner; they are found in food and they are good for you!
Eat Well-Age Well
Getting older isn't what it used to be. Seniors are staying active well into their golden years, people are retiring later, and 60 is the new 40. The latest generation of retirees is more active and health-conscious-and living the motto "a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Getting older isn't what it used to be. Seniors are staying active well into their golden years, people are retiring later, and 60 is the new 40. The latest generation of retirees is more active and health-conscious-and living the motto "a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Antioxidants
An antioxidant is a molecule that helps stop oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals-those molecules in the body that are unstable due to a missing electron. The free radical will try to stabilize itself by stealing an electron from one of the body's healthy cells, a process called oxidation.
An antioxidant is a molecule that helps stop oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals-those molecules in the body that are unstable due to a missing electron. The free radical will try to stabilize itself by stealing an electron from one of the body's healthy cells, a process called oxidation.
Spirulina & Chlorella
Chlorophyll-the green pigment vital for photosynthesis that is found in all plants-is one of the best reasons to eat green veggies. While plants are a good source of chlorophyll, none are as richly endowed as freshwater microalgae, of which spirulina and chlorella are the most popular and well researched.
Chlorophyll-the green pigment vital for photosynthesis that is found in all plants-is one of the best reasons to eat green veggies. While plants are a good source of chlorophyll, none are as richly endowed as freshwater microalgae, of which spirulina and chlorella are the most popular and well researched.
Probiotics
There is a newfound interest in probiotics, and food companies haven't missed a beat. They have put these latest nutritional money-makers into flavoured sticks, special drinks, yogourts, cheese, and anything else you can put a bite on.
There is a newfound interest in probiotics, and food companies haven't missed a beat. They have put these latest nutritional money-makers into flavoured sticks, special drinks, yogourts, cheese, and anything else you can put a bite on.
Flying with Sea Buckthorn
According to legend, it was the magical herb sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) that allowed Pegasus (the winged horse) to fly. Although the theory hasn't been scientifically studied, we're currently looking for funding and a double-blind Pegasus or two in order to receive NHP approval.
According to legend, it was the magical herb sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) that allowed Pegasus (the winged horse) to fly. Although the theory hasn't been scientifically studied, we're currently looking for funding and a double-blind Pegasus or two in order to receive NHP approval.
