Natural Supplements

Are Herbal Supplements Safe?

Herbs have been in existence, and in use, since long before prescription drugs were ever thought of.  They are often hailed as a more natural way to treat ailments. 

But it is a common misconception that herbal supplements are without risk.

It is true that herbs, when used properly, are sometimes safer than over-the-counter or prescription drugs.  That is because they are in their natural state.  They contain a number of compounds, and these compounds complement one another.  Manufactured drugs, on the other hand, are usually comprised of a single substance.  They may be derived from plant sources, but individual chemicals are isolated to create them.  This process may leave out other chemicals that moderate or change their effects.

A frequent problem with herbal supplements is that they are not strictly regulated.  They do not undergo the scrutiny that prescription and over-the-counter drugs are put through.  They are actually regulated as dietary supplements rather than drugs, and that means that the requirements for them are more lenient.

That’s not to say that the government does nothing to ensure that herbal supplements are safe.  The herbs that they are made from must undergo a certain amount of testing.  The problem lies in the fact that the manufacture of the supplements is not subjected to the same high level of scrutiny as the manufacture of prescription drugs.  The Food and Drug Administration does not review herbs before they are marketed, but they do take action if an herbal supplement is found to be unsafe once it reaches the market.

Potential Hazards of Herbal Supplements

Something we should remember about herbal supplements is that they can interact with other substances.  These include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, other herbs, and possibly even foods.  For this reason, it is very important to get as much information as possible about any given herb before you start using it.

Just like any other medication, herbs should be avoided by people with certain medical conditions.  If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not use any type of herb without getting your health care provider’s approval first. 

If you are going to have surgery, it is also important to let the surgeon know about any herbs that you are taking.  Some may thin the blood or interact with anesthesia.  And certain herbs may cause side effects that can be dangerous for certain groups of people.  For example, an herb that may cause a rise in blood pressure should not be used by those with heart disease.

Just because a product is natural, doesn’t necessarily mean that it is completely safe.  While herbal supplements often have fewer additives and side effects than prescription drugs, there are many things that should be considered before taking them.  It is important to use the same amount of caution you would use when taking any other pill.

Share This

Bookmark To:

Is a Multivitamin Really Best?

The vitamin industry is a thriving business.  Many adults take vitamins in an effort to improve their health, and they often give them to their children as well. 

But there is much debate as to whether multivitamins or single ingredient vitamins are best.

For many, a multivitamin is the most convenient choice.  It seems to take the guesswork out of getting enough of each vitamin and mineral.  Others, however, believe that taking single ingredient vitamins gives them more control over what goes into their bodies.  So which is best?  It depends on your individual needs and diet.

Getting Your Vitamins from Food

Ideally, all of our vitamins and minerals should come from dietary sources.  Unfortunately, few of us eat a diet that gives us everything we need each day.  In fact, it would take very careful planning to get in the recommended daily allowance of every vitamin each day.  Add to that the fact that certain health problems lead to an increased importance of specific vitamins, and you can see why taking supplements makes things much easier.

Some health food companies have recognized this problem and come up with whole food supplements.  These are supplements that use foods in their natural state rather than extracting or synthesizing the vitamins in a lab.  They have fewer preservatives and fillers, and they are purported to be more effective than vitamins that are produced in a lab.  Yet they provide the vitamins we need in a convenient and easy to use form.

When Is a Multivitamin Best?

For those who do not eat a healthy diet, a daily multivitamin may be the best bet.  It ensures that we do not completely miss out on any single vitamin.  But for those who are health conscious, single ingredient vitamins may be a better option.

It is possible to get too much of a good thing.  Your body can only use so much of each vitamin each day.  And some vitamins can produce side effects if we take too much of them.  Too much Vitamin C, for example, can cause nosebleeds and other undesirable effects.  So if you keep close tabs on your diet and know how much of each vitamin you’re getting, single ingredient supplements might be a more sensible way to make up the difference on those you do not get enough of.

When we can’t or don’t get enough of the vitamins we need from food sources, vitamin supplements can help us get the things we need to stay healthy.  But it is important to try to keep tabs on the amounts of vitamins we are getting in our diets so that we can make the best supplement choice.  Getting the right amount of each vitamin every day will help our bodies work more efficiently.

Share This

Bookmark To:

Increase Probiotics in Your Diet for Better Health

Probiotics are one of the hottest supplement trends of late.  Probiotics have been in the diets of native peoples for ages such as in kefir, sauerkraut and other naturally fermented foods.

Only recently has mainstream medicine begun to acknowledge their benefits.  This has led to their appearance in a number of new food products, and an increased awareness of their natural presence in products that were already on store shelves.

Probiotic supplements are also increasing in popularity.  They are not, however, regulated very well.  They may not have enough beneficial bacteria in them to make a difference.  They also are not as conducive to the survival of the bacteria as food sources that contain them naturally. It’s better to get your probiotics by eating yogurt, drinking kefir, eating naturally fermented and cultured vegetables (salsa, sauerkraut, kim chi, etc) and other foods.

Yogurt is one of the most recognizable sources of probiotics.  It naturally contains a substantial amount of bacteria.  But if you’re counting on getting your daily dose of beneficial bacteria from yogurt, it is important to read the label.  It should contain live and active cultures in order to provide the maximum benefit.

Yogurt is not the only dairy product that contains probiotics.  Others include kefir, acidophilus milk and buttermilk.  Dairy products provide a good environment for friendly bacteria, protecting them from acid and bile.  Dairy foods also contain prebiotics, which are compounds that stimulate the growth and activity of probiotics.

Fermented vegetables are also good sources of probiotics.  Some examples of these include sauerkraut, kimchi, and curtido.  Salted gherkins and brine-cured olives contain lots of beneficial bacteria as well.  Those that are sold commercially, however, often go through processes that kill the bacteria in them.  These processes include pasteurization and the addition of preservatives such as sodium benzoate.

Bubbies is one brand that is still naturally fermented and chemical free. You can find Bubbies in most grocery stores. You can also buy raw, unpasteurized sauerkraut on Amazon.com. There are also several cookbooks that will teach you how to make cultured vegetables and other fermented foods at home.

Probiotic juices are also beginning to show up in grocery stores.  They contain bacteria that have been shown to promote immunity and aid in digestion.  These bacteria are also believed to be beneficial for sufferers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Food manufacturers have begun to add probiotics to a number of foods that do not naturally contain them.  These include cereals, chocolate bars, and dairy drinks.  In some countries a variety of probiotic beverages are on the market, and there is even a brand of probiotic ice cream.  With these options becoming available in more and more places, it is becoming much easier to include probiotics in our diets.

The medical establishment has only recently begun to take probiotics seriously, but the studies that have been done are very promising.  Probiotics have a low incidence of side effects, and they have been shown to be good for the digestive system and bowels.  They are also believed to help prevent, and in some cases treat, many types of infection.  Including probiotics in your diet each day will not cause any ill effects, and it could significantly improve your health.

Share This

Bookmark To:

Bee Pollen Vs Royal Jelly Extract

What is the difference between bee pollen and royal jelly extract?  What benefits do they offer?  Let’s do a little comparison on each.

Bee pollen is called the “food of life”.  It contains 18 amino acids, vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, phosphorous, potassium, fatty acids, carbohydrates, rutin, and protein.  Bee pollen is originally taken from plants, compressed into pellets, and extracted from beehives.

Royal jelly contains acetylocholine, which is a neurotransmitter that allows for the transmission of messages from nerve cell to nerve cell but, more importantly, has been shown to have a positive effect on memory loss which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.  It contains amino acids, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and is also considered a bee food.

Royal jelly is a substance produced by the worker bees that, in turn, is used to feed the queen bee.  It serves to increase her growth and longevity.  This is why queen bees are considerably larger and live longer than worker bees.

What are the benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly in human terms?

Bee pollen builds up the immune system in order to fight allergens.  It can slow the aging process, reduce stress, and is very effective for those who wish to lose weight – or gain weight, whichever the case may be.

Individuals who have taken royal jelly extract assert that it provided improved memory function, overall good health, increased resistance to infections, lowered cholesterol, and prevented anemia as well as other chronic disorders.  In general, they saw a significant improvement in their overall well-being.

It should be noted here that bee pollen was found to increase longevity among a group of people in the Russian mountains.  Their average age is 125.  So there seems to be some similarity between bee pollen and royal jelly in this regard.

Bee pollen has the ability to increase the production of blood cells in those who have anemia, prevents allergies, increases energy levels, builds up the immune system against allergens, and prevents infections; royal jelly plays a similar role in enhancing the immune system as well.

If one looks at the benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly and combines the two, clearly they both provide many of the elements needed to maintain a healthy life and, to a large degree, extend it as well.  Bee pollen and royal extract is a combination that can’t be beat!

Share This

Bookmark To:

Cod Liver Oil Health Benefits

Do you remember the TV show “The Little Rascals?”  There was one episode in which one of the kids was given a spoonful of cod liver oil.  It was a very funny episode, similar to Lucille Ball’s “Vita-meta-vegimen” episode – it had the same effect when swallowed.  Nonetheless, this oil did have its uses way back then.  Let’s take a look at some cod liver oil health benefits as asserted by doctors today.

Firstly, cod liver oil has three vitamins essential to your health: Vitamins A, D, and E.  The three vitamins play an important role in lowering cholesterol and preventing dry skin, and have been touted for reducing the inflammation which causes arthritis.

Studies have shown that cod liver oil not only improves memory, but also improves conditions such as asthma and other related diseases.  In addition, this oil is widely known to help prevent rickets in children (which is associated with lack of vitamin D), as well as contribute to general bone health.  Studies have indicated that individuals with osteoporosis have shown significant progress when taking cod liver oil.

Many people suffer from joint pain, and cod liver oil can help reduce not only the pain, but also the damage incurred in arthritis patients.

Secondly, in addition to the natural vitamins in cod liver oil, there are omega-3 fatty acids which have significant benefits.  Combined, they improve energy levels in individuals who are sometimes fatigued; they help keep the thyroid at a healthy level, help maintain vision, keep the immune system healthy, and are noted to offer cardiovascular benefits as well.

Thirdly, cod liver oil has also been used to treat diabetes, and clinical trials have shown that the glucose response greatly improves after taking cod liver oil.  Moreover, diabetes can affect the eyes, and cod liver oil has a healing effect on the retina.

If you have high blood pressure, studies have indicated that the use of cod liver oil has a significant effect due to the fact that vitamin D absorbs calcium and magnesium, and the end result is a lower blood pressure.

For Colitis sufferers, individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and those who have Crohn’s Disease, studies have shown that these conditions can respond more favorably to cod liver oil than to other prescribed medication.

Cod liver oil has many health benefits and while some people may prefer adding fish to their diet, it will not necessarily yield the same results that cod liver oil offers.  This is due to the fact that the potency is not as high in fish products.  In fact, one study showed that you would have to consume approximately a half-pound of fatty fish in order to obtain the same amount of vitamin D as is contained in one spoonful of cod liver oil.

Share This

Bookmark To:

Sage is well known for its use as a seasoning in such foods as sausages, stuffing and many soups.  Sage is more than just a flavoring agent.  It has medicinal properties as well, and it can be used to alleviate numerous ailments.

Sage contains camphor and phenolic acids, both of which are antibacterial.  It also contains thujone, an antiseptic, and tannins, which have astringent properties.  Sage is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties.  With all of these benefits, it’s no wonder that sage is a favorite of herbalists.

Sage for Problems of the Mouth and Throat

Sage is great for sores in the mouth and for sore throats.  Gargling with sage tea mixed with apple cider vinegar and salt can provide relief for a sore throat.  Rinsing the mouth with sage tea will help heal mouth sores.  Adding a bit of chamomile will make the tea even more soothing.

Sage for Wounds

Sage compresses can be beneficial for most wounds.  They were used in ancient times to relieve snakebites.  Sage’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it a good treatment for cuts and abrasions.  It is also said to be great for reducing the pain associated with bruises.

Sage for Digestive Problems

Sage is great for settling the stomach.  It can also provide relief from flatulence.  When consumed in moderation, sage is even said to help lower blood sugar.  If you are diabetic it is important to discuss this use with your doctor.

Bathing in Sage

Putting sage in your bath can have numerous benefits.  Sage is effective against skin ulcerations and rashes.  It has been used to treat dandruff.  Those suffering from stiffness of the muscles or joint aches and pains can benefit from soaking in a sage bath.  As a bonus, the scent of sage can act as an insect repellent.

Sage for the Mind

Herbal aids are often used to increase mental alertness.  Sage is often an ingredient in these and it can also be used on its own for the same purpose.  Studies have also shown that sage can improve memory.  It is thought that it may protect chemicals in the brain that are destroyed by Alzheimer’s disease.

Other Medicinal Properties

Sage has been used against many other ailments.  Those suffering from menopause often use sage to combat excessive sweating associated with hot flashes.  Acne, hypertension, colds and headaches are a few of the other things that people use sage for.

Using sage to combat health problems can save you money and prevent you from suffering the side effects associated with many modern medicines.  Sage can easily be grown right in your garden, making it convenient and accessible.  The many uses of sage make it well worth the small amount of time spent growing and caring for it.

Share This

Bookmark To:

Heartburn is not only annoying; it can also cause permanent, severe damage to your esophagus.  You can make lifestyle changes to help reduce symptoms, but sometimes that’s not enough.  If taking prescription pills just isn’t for you, there are natural alternatives you can try.  One great natural cure is glutamine, also known as L-glutamine.

Glutamine is an amino acid produced by your body.  It is a powerful antioxidant.  This means it helps protect your body from damaging free radicals that exist in the environment and are produced by your body.  Antioxidants are so powerful; they can combat cancer and other diseases and prevent premature aging.  Glutamine coats your digestive tract, including your esophagus, and not only prevents stomach acid from damaging the fragile lining; it actually repairs damage done by previous episodes of heartburn.

If the fact that it reverses the damaging effects of heartburn isn’t enough, glutamine can also encourage you to change your ways while becoming heartburn-free.  Cigarettes can aggravate heartburn, glutamine will soothe your cravings and help you quit.  It also calms you down and makes you less nervous or anxious; all of which are contributing factors to some heartburn.  Besides decreasing your heartburn symptoms, these wonderful side effects of glutamine can also decrease your blood pressure, improve your mood, and help you live a whole lot longer.  As side effects come, those aren’t too shabby.

If you want to get more glutamine, you don’t have to take a supplement.  In fact, you’re probably already getting some glutamine in your diet.  All you need to do is add more glutamine-rich foods to your diet.  This includes beans, red meat, nuts, cabbage juice, and fish.

Not sure glutamine is for you?  Well, because it is essential for proper functioning of the body, getting more glutamine has been suggested to help with lots of other ailments.  Because it helps the digestive system function properly, it helps treat Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, ulcerative colitis, ulcers, and even food allergies.  It has also been suggested to treat angina, problems from exercise and overtraining, and even HIV.  It can improve mental functioning and may help with ADD.  Imagine all those additional benefits from your heartburn treatment.

Before trying any treatment for persistent heartburn, natural or otherwise, you should see a doctor.  Rarely, heartburn can be caused by another disorder that requires a different treatment.  A doctor can check on your condition and tell you if glutamine is right for you.

So, why not try some glutamine today.  It will give you a jump start on the way to being heartburn-free.

Share This

Bookmark To:

The reason why calcium is essential for women is to protect our bones from diseases such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Whether you are taking a vitamin C capsule daily, or include dairy products in your diet, calcium is a must for women, especially baby boomers.

There are other foods which provide a rich source of calcium, such as: leafy green vegetables; beans; juices and cereals. Making herbal beverages from calcium rich herbs is also an excellent source of easily assimiliated calcium. If you are a baby boomer, your doctor has undoubtedly told you to increase your calcium intake by consuming at least 1200 mg. a day. These are readily available in capsule form at any health store or pharmacy. In addition, your doctor may also ask you to take a bone density test to determine if the bones in your body show any signs of brittleness or degeneration.

It is estimated that over 80% of women have either arthritis or osteoporosis. To prevent this from occurring, taking calcium supplements on a daily basis; consume foods rich in calcium; exercise, and maintaining a proper diet all help to keep your bones and your body in good health.

There is more good news about calcium. Several studies have shown that calcium can decrease weight gain over time. While there is an on-going debate as to whether or not this is true, it is possible. The researchers have claimed that calcium may reduce calcium concentrations in fat cells by lowering the production of two hormones, parathyroid hormone and an active form of vitamin D, which in turn increases fat breakdown in these cells.  In addition, calcium from food or supplements may bind to small amounts of dietary fat in the digestive tract and prevent its absorption, carrying the fat out in the feces. It seems calcium may have a role in reducing weight, but more studies are needed to determine how calcium can affect weight loss to this degree.

Whether you take capsules or increase your dairy intake, the reason why calcium is essential for women is to ensure and maintain bone health.

Share This

Bookmark To: