Statistics show that unless we start making important changes in our lifestyle, one in EIGHT women will get breast cancer.

According to some researchers, one of the main concepts we need to learn is that breast cancer is primarily an estrogen-dependant cancer. That means, it is triggered by exposure to excessive amounts of estrogen, not just estrogen our body produces, but environmental chemicals that mimic estrogens. So, the first step is to keep these negative estrogens also called “xenoestrogens” in check. It is also very important to have a healthy diet by eating organic fruits and vegetables, and avoiding meat and chicken treated with hormones and antibiotics. Estrogens are commonly fed to dairy cattle and chicken to increase milk and egg production, this is in addition to pesticides residues that wind up in these foods.

Another source of xenoestrogens based on Steve Horne’s research, is plastics. Some examples are soft plastic toys, soft plastic containers, and water bottles. There are also xenoestrogens in some laundry detergents, household cleaning products, shampoos, perfumes and cosmetics.

Your body has natural means of defense to destroy excess estrogens. The liver is one of the main organs in charge of breaking down these toxins. You might think, then let the liver do its work! However it is not that simple, because the liver has more than 500 different functions, it gets over worked and when it gets full of toxins it is hard to get them out of the body. For the liver to be able to detoxify it needs to get good nutrition to function properly.

Foods high in sulfur are very important, like garlic, onions and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens and turnips. There is also a sulfur compound as a supplement from cruciferous vegetables called Indole-3 Carbinol that is particularly helpful in breaking down excess estrogens. It can be used as a supplement by women wishing to reduce their risk of breast cancer, for fighting breast cancer and other ailments caused by excess estrogen like hot flashes before and during menopause.

Herbal liver cleanses such as All Cell Detox and Enviro-Detox can also help the body breaking down not only xenoestrogens, but other chemicals as well.

It is important to nurture your body with pH balance nutrients and antioxidants, like Ultimate Green Zone and Thai-go or Super Orac. You also need good fats in your body from nuts, avocados, deep ocean fish and coconut oil, or supplement with Flax Seed Oil or Super Omega 3. New research shows the importance of supplementing with Vitamin D. Researchers at the University Of Rochester Medical Center followed 155 breast cancer patients months before and after surgery. Low vitamin D levels were seen in the presence of biomarkers of aggressive tumors. Women with triple-negative tumors were three times as likely to have low vitamin D levels when compared with other breast cancers. The best ways to increase your vitamin D levels is to absorb the sun’s rays and to consume it through food and high quality supplements.

Also enhance the health of your breast by making sure your glandular system is working properly and your hormones are balanced. For starters, experts recommend getting an adequate intake of iodine. The thyroid is the bigger user of this awesome nutrient. The second user is your breasts. Natural sources of iodine may help women with breast cysts as well. Iodine can be found in supplements like Kelp, Dulse and concentrated Black Walnut. I personally like the herbal combination Master Gland; it has these nutrients and more to support the entire glandular system. Pro-G-Yam, a progesterone cream helps to balance hormones and block the action of xenoestrogens. Also, the use of underarm antiperspirant deodorants blocks the release of toxins from sweat glands in the armpits and contributes to lymphatic stagnation. Try using your favorite essential oils or a natural organic deodorant from NYR Organics.

Last but not least, keep your lymph moving! The breast is part of the lymphatic system, it is very important to keep it clean and moving. Exercise, especially jumping in a rebounder is very helpful. Also realize that long periods of worry and anger can be internal toxins, draining your health. Take some time to experience joy, laughter, love and peacefulness through relaxing with friends, family and companion animals, spending time in nature, walking, dancing, yoga, tai chi or other forms of movement (like Zumba Fitness), watching funny movies, meditating, drawing, painting or using your creativity in other ways

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A nutrient-dense, brown sea vegetable. Kelp has long been used as food and medicine. As a food, kelp is usually eaten is small quantities; it is also used as condiment. Kelp is harvested from oceans around the world. Many different species and varieties are used, but all have essentially the same properties.

Kelp’s primary taste is salty, due to the fact that sea water dries on the leaves and adds a small amount of sodium chloride to the herb. It is also salty due to high potassium content. The secondary characteristic is that the plant is mucilant and slightly bitter. Seaweed is warming (due to its action on the thyroid) and cooling to tissues (due to its soothing mucilaginous nature).

Kelp is one of the richest sources of the element iodine, which is needed by thyroid hormones to help regulate the body’s growth and development. It has been only in recent years that this seaweed has been consumed by peoples other than the Japanese. Studies have proven that there is a significant correlation between the Japanese intake of kelp and the country’s dramatically lower rates of breast cancer, obesity, heart disease, respiratory disease, rheumatism and arthritis, high blood pressure, thyroid deficiency, infectious disease, constipation and similar gastrointestinal ailments.

By the 18^th century doctors began to notice that people who lived along the Atlantic Coast rarely developed enlarged thyroid glands, known as goiters. They realized that this was because people along the coast consumed seaweed regularly. Iodine can also protect cells from damage by radioactive substances and heavy metals. It is beneficial because its ability to combat radiation exposure and heavy metal toxicity. A chemical in Kelp called sodium alginate prevents the absorption of radioactive strontium 90. Strontium 90 is a byproduct of nuclear explosions and nuclear power and weapons facilities and has been linked to a number of ailments including cancer and leukemia, bone cancer and Hodgkin’s disease. One study has shown that alginate supplements can reduce strontium 90 absorption by as much as 83 percent. Sodium alginate helps to prevent the absorption of newly-ingested heavy metals.

Native Americans also recognized the benefits of Kelp, saying it prevented a condition they called “big necks” (goiters). Those who suffered from a lack of iodine were given kelp. Some of the Indians, especially those living on or near the seacoasts, found kelp beneficial in helping burns and scalds. In the 1860’s, physicians in Britain and France noticed that people who consumed iodine seemed to lose weight more easily than most people. They discovered that iodine stimulates the thyroid, which in turn boosts the body’s metabolism rate. As a result, the body is able to burn calories more quickly.

Women’s breast is the second biggest user of iodine and many breast ailments can be helped by using an adequate intake of iodine. All tissues of the body need iodine, but the parts of the body that suffer the most from iodine deficiency (beside the breast and thyroid) are the skin, eyes, prostate and uterus.

Kelp is found in various Natures’ Sunshine formulas. Kelp is an ingredient in Adaptamax a remarkable formula that I personally like a lot. Adaptamax is part of the Glandular System Pack which also includes Master Gland and and Adrenal Support. This Glandular system pack provides nutrients to nourish the body’s glands, support positive mood, promote energy and strengthen the body’s ability to regulate stress. It supports the natural defense mechanisms against all types of stress, along with antioxidant-and-nutrient rich herbs and whole foods to enhance the immune system, increase energy levels, and promote mental and physical well- being. Kelp is also found in Thyroid Activator, Thyroid Support, Energ-V, Heavy Metal Detox, Herbal Trace Minerals and Target TS-II.

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Continuing with Steve Horne’s presentation of Flower Essences: Remedies for Grief, Desire (Love), or self-destructive behaviors.

Just as our body contracts to push things away, it expands to let things in. When we “love” something, our blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow to the senses and skin. As a result our skin “glows,” our eyes “sparkle,” we are “warm” and open to embrace life. Desire allows us to say “yes” to what is pleasurable and good for us, both physically and emotionally. This same energy allows us to more efficiently digest nutrients, pull oxygen into the body and provide oxygen and nutrients to the cells.

Healthy Grief- Grief is more than crying, it is sobbing, wailing, moaning, sighing and even screaming.  These actions forcefully redistribute blood to the surface of our body so we can experience pleasure again.

“Release it Remedy” Helpful for people who are going through breakups, divorce or death of loved ones. Also helpful for people who are “victims,” who complain a lot, blaming others for their lack of success and problems. Helps people find comfort, let go of the past and have hope and confidence to face the future

Its flowers are:

Self-Heal – helps a person find their own inner strength and healing. Love-Lies-Bleeding – for melancholy and anguish of the soul, helps one find meaning and purpose in one’s suffering. Chicory – for possessive, needy, demanding love, helps transform it to self-less love, given freely. Bleeding Heart – teaches the lesson that love must exist in freedom, we can’t control what we love, helps a person “let go” after divorce, death or other losses. Chrysanthemum – for fear of mortality and aging, helps a person identify with their spiritual, rather than physical nature and accept the temporal (i.e., temporary) nature of the physical world. Borage –  encourages hope and optimism.

“Open Heart Remedy”

For people who are “hard of heart” because of unresolved wounds from childhood and previous relationships. Helps a person face their suppressed pain and grief and find healing. Helps them open up to love, warmth and vulnerability again. Increases compassion, empathy and trust in relationships. Some of the flowers in this remedy are: California Wild Rose – opens and comforts the heart, primary remedy for healing the heart. Baby Blue Eyes – helps with defensiveness, cynicism and lack of trust, helps one rediscover innocence, the ability to trust and receive love. Yerba Santa – internalized grief and sadness which causes constricted feelings in the chest, helps a person open up and acknowledge painful emotions, helps them “breathe freely” again. Evening Primrose – helps people who avoid commitment in relationships to commit to the process of love.

Remedies for Fear: Fear is the energy we feel when choices need to be made, that have the possibility for great reward and/or great pain. Fear strongly affects the systems that regulate body functions, such as the glandular system (particularly the adrenals and thyroid) and the nerves. When this energy of fear is channeled into constructive action through exercising courage, it builds excitement and self-confidence.

“Be Courageous Remedy”

For people who allow their fears to paralyze them in life and give up control to authority figures instead of trusting their own judgment. Helps people make their own decisions. Helps with the development of courage to act in the face of fear and self-confidence to pursue the goals and directions they desire in life. It has: Mountain Pride – helps a person confront and transform challenging situations. Aspen – for fears of the unknown, hidden fears and anxiety, promotes trust and confidence to meet the unknown. Scleranthus – hesitation and indecision, wavering between choices, promotes decisiveness and resolve. Mimulus – for facing known fears, promotes courage and self-confidence. Cerato – for people who are overly dependent on the advice of others, helps people to trust their own inner knowing. Blackberry – for the inability to translate goals into actions.

“Be Respons-Able Remedy”

Helpful for people who get caught in addictive, obsessive or self-destructive behaviors. Helps them get in touch with the inner emotions that are driving their behavior. Promotes greater self-awareness and self-responsibility. Helps a person be true to themselves and move their life in a more positive direction. These are some of the flowers in this combination: Milkweed – overcomes tendency to dull consciousness through alcohol, overeating and other addictions. California Poppy – helps those who chase glamour, fame and “glitter” to find the true “gold” in their heart. Agrimony – for people who hide their pain, fear and anxiety behind a mask of cheerfulness, promotes emotional honesty.

What is a Flower Essence? According to Steve Horne, Flower essences are vibrational (homeopathic-like) remedies made from the flowers of plants. Most are made by soaking flowers in water in the sunlight, then into a mother tincture. The mother tincture is then diluted to create the final remedy for the client.

Dr. Bach was an English medical doctor who also practiced homeopathy. He was dissatisfied with how medicine treated symptoms, while ignoring the welfare of the patient as a whole. In his search to find a gentler method of healing he created the original 38 Bach flower essences and a blend called Rescue Remedy. Horne explains that “plants have to overcome challenges in their environment, just like we do. Plants, like people, have personalities which help them rise above these challenges. Horne affirms that associating with a person with positive personality traits can help you learn how to meet life’s challenges in a constructive way”.

A flower essence continues Horne…”captures the “vibration” of the plant’s personality, which helps your own emotional energy “learn” how to acquire that same personality trait”.

Distress Remedy my favorite one. It has amazing properties to help in situations of sudden emotional or physical trauma. It helps to promote tissue healing and a sense of calmness. It contains the following according to Horne’s description:
Arnica – for disassociation during shock or trauma, restores awareness and presence. Star of Bethlehem – heals shock or trauma, helps a person find spiritual guidance and comfort. Rock Rose – helps a person find courage to overcome fear, terror and panic. Impatiens – helps overcome impatience and irritability, helps a person flow with life and others. Clematis – helps a person be fully awake and focused in the present moment. Cherry Plum – overcomes fear of loss of self-control and emotional breakdown, promotes trust and surrender. Red Clover – keeps one from getting caught up in panic or hysteria, promotes calmness in the midst of a crisis. This is my favorite to use on my children since they were toddlers. It is almost magical. They love it!

“Keep Cool” Remedy – helpful for people who feel irritated, impatient and easily lose their temper. Helps a person be more receptive to other people’s points of view and work for cooperation rather than competition. Promotes forgiveness, tolerance and acceptance of others, and open and loving communication. Horne explains the content of this remedy as follows:
Calendula – helps a person become aware of how their words wound others, promotes warmth and receptivity in communication. Snapdragon – overcomes verbal aggression, promotes balanced communication. Impatiens – relieves irritability and impatience. Vine – helps people who are domineering and controlling to find greater tolerance for others. Willow – helps overcome bitterness and resentment, helps a person be flexible and forgive others. Holly – for those who feel jealous and cut off from love, helps open one’s heart to feeling love. Tiger Lily – softens aggressive and competitive personalities.

“Find Strength” Remedy – Steve Horne describes this one as helpful for people who are “people pleasers” and enablers. Helps people who are being abused to recognize the abuse and stand up to it. Helps people to set healthy boundaries for others and have the courage to communicate openly and honestly in relationships.
Mariposa Lily – heals the wounded child, helps a person feel worthy of love and the good things they want in life.
Pine – for people who suffer from excessive guilt, blaming themselves for the faults of others, promotes self-acceptance and self-forgiveness.
Scarlet Monkey flower – for people who are afraid of their own anger, helps a person face and accept their angry feelings, promotes honest communication.
Centaury – for people who have difficulty saying no and serve others out of fear, helps them find strength to say no and serve from their own inner strength.

To be continued…

Thanksgiving is here and so are the wonderful meals around this holiday. Digestive problems for everyone are more common during these holidays. Problems such as gas, bloating, headache, nausea, intestinal cramps and diarrhea can accompany such occasions. There are a few things you can do to help digest this amazing treats. According to Steve Horne, there is one particular element missing in our diets is contributing to this problems, enzymes.

Horne explains that Enzymes are a very important part of digestion. Enzymes are proteins which act as a catalyst in chemical reactions. Because of the low temperatures in the body, we would starve to death waiting for our food to digest if we didn’t have enzymes to speed up the chemical reactions which cause digestion. Raw, whole foods come with the food enzymes specifically made for their own digestion. Enzymes in raw foods are released when we are chewing. In the mouth these enzymes start to breakdown protein, carbohydrates and fats. Then they travel to the upper part of the stomach and cardia. Here the enzymes continue to digest the raw food for 30 to 60 minutes. Then the food travels to the lower stomach where the food enzymes are inhibited and the body supplies digestive enzymes such as those made by the stomach, pancreas and small intestines to continue breaking down the food. Some of the enzymes from the food are later activated in the intestines.

Food Enzymes, Proactazyme, Hi Lipase, Protease Plus and Papaya Mint are great choices to support the digestion. The more you eat the more enzymes you need. As explained above, the body produces its own enzymes, however as we grow older this production diminishes and we need to supply them to the body through our food and supplementation . Enzymes are vital for digestion, and yet they are missing in our diets today. Enzymes are easily destroyed by the way we prepare our foods. Enzymes only survive at temperatures below 118F. Baking are barbecuing usually occurs at temperatures of 350F or higher. Canned foods must be heated to high temperatures to sanitize and preserve the food. Processed and refined food are usually subject to too much air, heat or light which kills the enzymes present. According to Steve Horne people who have diets low in enzymes also have low levels of energy. Studies show that the more enzymes that are available in the body the more energy the person will have. Enzymes help store sugar in the muscles providing energy and the quick reactions needed to contract muscles. Enzymes also provide the energy necessary to help send nerve signals. Half of the energy generated by the body is used to digest food. With enzymes present in the diet, less energy is needed to digest food and more is available for other needs.

Food Enzymes help to digest protein, carbohydrates and fat. Papaya Mint comes in a chewable form, they are refreshing dinner mints and digestive helpers, easy to take on the go as well. Papaya mint can be used before, during or after meals.

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A delicate looking herb with a penetrating fragrance, thyme is a wonderful addition to bean, egg and vegetable dishes. Both fresh and dry, thyme is a useful great herb.

Thyme has a long history of use in natural medicine in connection with chest and respiratory problems including coughs, bronchitis, and chest congestion. Only recently, however, have researchers pinpointed some of the components in thyme that bring about its healing effects. The volatile oil components of thyme are now known to include carvacolo, borneol, geraniol, but most importantly, thymol.

The information below was obtained from Herb Allure to give you a wider spectrum of the properties of Thyme and Fenugreek.

Thyme’s volatile oil has also been shown to promote expectoration of phlegm and destroy worms, while the constituent thymol, has been shown to exhibit potent anti-fungal activity. Thyme has an antiseptic effect that enables to help with respiratory infection and minor throat infection. The combination of flavonoids and volatile oil in thyme provide antispasmodic qualities which are particularly beneficial for helping chronic coughs such as whooping cough. Furthermore studies have confirmed the herbs bronchodilator (dilates the bronchioles) effects. Thyme is commonly suggested for allergies. Asthma, bronchitis, excess mucous, colds, fever, hay fever, headache, laryngitis, pleurisy, sinus congestion and sore throat. Thyme also stimulates the production of digestive fluids, relives abdominal pain, and acts as a mild sedative. Thyme contains B-complex vitamins, vitamins C and D, as well as a rich source of chromium, iron and silicon. Thyme also contains fairly high amounts of cobalt, magnesium, manganese and selenium.

My favorite herbal combination that contains thyme is Fenugreek and Thyme. Fenugreek and Thyme is an herbal decongestant and expectorant formula which helps relieve respiratory congestion, inflammation and infection. Fenugreek and Thyme helps thin mucosal fluids and stimulates expectoration.

According to Herb Allure source of information, Fenugreek acts as an expectorant and antispasmodic to loosen phlegm and help stop chronic coughs. Research has also shown that fenugreek induces perspiration to help lower fever, a quality that has been compared by some authorities with that of quinine. Fenugreek also stimulates the production of digestive fluids to enhance digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Fenugreek is even recommended for convalescence and in cases of anorexia to promote weight gain.

Fenugreek provides anti-inflammatory properties, which help sooth inflamed tissues, as confirmed by Belgian researchers. In fact, these soothing properties have been found to help stomach problems such as dyspepsia, gastric ulcers and gastritis. French scientists have shown fenugreek stimulates general pancreatic secretion; of use for improving sever diabetes. A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed fenugreek lowered blood glucose and serum lipids levels in type I diabetes. Fenugreek’s rich supply of steroidal saponins, including diosgenin, has also been implicated as responsible for lowering cholesterol. Fenugreek is high in iron and selenium and is a rich source of viscous fiber. Fenugreek contains generous amounts of choline and vitamin A, as well as biotin, inositol, lecithin, PABA, and vitamin B1, C and D. Fenugreek also supplies a sizeable amount of the aminoacids arginine, histidine, leucine and lysine. Fenugreek has been shown to increase breast- milk production due to the lactation activity of fatty acids present.

Fenugreek and Thyme gives you a powerful support for this fall and winter.

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Steve Horne, Master Herbalist and President of Tree of Light Institute, wrote a guideline of 12 tips for a better sleep that has personally helped me and I would like to share with you.

Horne gets you started by giving you a dozen tips for getting a better night’s sleep. Pick one or two to work on at a time and see if they make a positive difference in your sleep patterns.

I often find that most people with insomnia fall on the category of tips 9 through 12; however the rest of them are great reminders to help your body to quite down. Here is his guideline:

Sleep Tip #1: Schedule Sleep: Your body has an internal clock that helps engage periods of sleep and wakefulness. If you can get on a schedule that allows you to get to bed at roughly the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning, it will ease both falling asleep and walking up.

Sleep Tip #2: In Chinese medicine, it is believed that certain meridians (or energy flows) are active at certain times of the day. According to this theory, the gall bladder and liver meridians are active from around 11pm to 1 am and 1am to 3am respectively. This is the peak time for your body to detoxify if you are asleep by 11pm. If you are not asleep when your gallbladder meridian becomes active, you may get a surge of nervous energy that inhibits sleep. This will be followed by feeling sluggish and tired the next morning.

Sleep Tip # 3: Avoid Late Night Stimulation: Avoid activities that get your adrenals pumping. This includes watching exciting TV shows or movies, exercising before bed and listening to loud stimulating music. Instead, try to listen to relaxing music, read uplifting books or share a massage with your partner.

Sleep Tip # 4: Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: Remove TVs, computers, cell phones and other distractions from your sleep area and keep your bedroom uncluttered and free of electric devises. You can also support your body with herbal combinations like Herbal Sleep or Kava Kava, especially if you have muscle tension.

Sleep Tip #5: Don’t eat late: It is hard for your body to fall asleep when it is digesting a heavy meal, so try to eat dinner at least two hours, but preferably four before bed time. Food Enzymes with your meal may help digestion as well.

Sleep tip #6: Make your sleep area dark to help your body to convert a neurotransmitter called serotonin into melatonin. Melatonin puts you to sleep. So, make your bedroom as dark as possible. You can also support your body with the supplement 5-HTP Power.

Sleep Tip#7: Breathe deeply. Oxygen is very important to sound sleep. Breathe deeply as you lie in bed and focus on relaxing your body, starting with your toes and working your way up to your head. Focus your mind on your breathing and mentally saying positive statements like “am relaxed” or “all is well”. GABA Plus or Stress-J are great supplements to help quite the mind if you need extra support.

Sleep Tip#8: Quite your mind. Get a pad of paper and write down your to-do list for the next day. This will help to “get it off your mind”. I find this tip very helpful myself.

Sleep Tip #9: Reduce your stress level during the day to help you sleep better at night. If you are tired during the day, but have poor quality of sleep at night, you may be suffering from adrenal exhaustion. This includes fatigue, mental confusion and emotional sensitivity during the day, followed by restless sleep. Two of the best remedies for this is Nervous Fatigue Formula TCM and Adrenal Support.

Sleep Tip #10: Balance your Blood Sugar. If you wake up in the middle of the night thinking about your problems and unable to go back to sleep, this can be a sign of blood sugar problems. What is happening is that your blood sugar is dropping too low in the middle of the night and your adrenal glands are firing off stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) to elevate your blood sugar. Avoiding sugar, white flour products, alcohol and caffeine will help. Licorice Root and Super Algae good supplements for additional support.

Sleep Tip # 11: Stay Hydrated. Proper hydration calms the brain and promotes better sleep. Try drinking at least ½ ounce of pure water per pound of body weight per day. In other words, two quarts (64 ounces) is the right amount of water for a 128 pound person.

Sleep Tip # 12: Be Physically Active. Take a walk, dance, swim, ride a bike, lift weights or otherwise engage your muscles 15-20 min per day to improve your sleep.

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Maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system is essential for vitality, wellbeing, and the proper functioning of the body as it ages. The health of the cardiovascular system is continually threatened by formidable foes in the form of cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension (high blood pressure) and an unhealthy lifestyle. All of these factors contribute to coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD, which can lead to a heart attack, is the leading cause of death in the United States and can be a major cause of disability. CHD occurs when the arteries that supply the heart with blood become hardened by calcification and narrowed by an accumulation of excess cholesterol and fat deposits called plaque. When a clot forms due to unstable plaque, blood flow through the artery becomes blocked, and this causes a heart attack. Almost 700,000 people die of CHD in the United States each year, and that accounts for about 29% of all deaths in this country.

Fortunately, the threat of CHD can be reduced or prevented by addressing various risk factors. Lifestyle modification can reverse many of these factors. For instance, eliminate obesity by adopting a sensible diet and a reasonable exercise program. Also, stop smoking cigarettes and/or using other forms of tobacco. Syndrome X or metabolic syndrome leading to diabetes may have a genetic component, but many of the symptoms can and should be reversed immediately. Diabetes has a major negative impact on the cardiovasculature, and this disease must be avoided at all cost.

High blood cholesterol and triglycerides are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Genetic predisposition accounts for the risk of high cholesterol levels in some individuals. But for the majority, unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits are the key risk factors. Reducing LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and elevating HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels are big steps in the direction of cardiovascular health.

A diet high in plant-based foods has long been associated with cardiovascular benefits. These benefits may be partly related to plant sterols or phytosterols. Phytosterols are essential components of plant cell membranes and are naturally found in abundance in food sources such as wheat germ, wheat bran, corn oil, peanuts, macadamia nuts, canola oil and olive oil. Phytosterols resemble the chemical structure of cholesterol. Because phytosterols are chemically similar to cholesterol, once ingested they compete with cholesterol during the absorption process. This results in an inhibition of cholesterol absorption and eventually decreases LDL levels in the body. Numerous research studies have documented the safety and efficacy of phytosterols in lowering cholesterol levels (1,2).

Red yeast rice, a product of rice fermented with the yeast Monascus purpureus, has long been used in China as both a food and a medicine. Research has shown that red yeast rice contains compounds that are similar to prescription medications that lower cholesterol levels. Red yeast rice has cardiovascular benefit because of an inhibition of the liver enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, a key component involved with hepatic cholesterol synthesis (3). Red yeast rice may lower the risk of CHD by helping to manage blood cholesterol levels.

Recent studies have demonstrated a correlation between cardiovascular disease and vitamin K intake (4). Two forms of vitamin K occur in nature, and both are important in the diet and it dietary supplements. Vitamin K1, also known as phylloquinone, is present in plant foods and is essential to blood-clotting mechanisms. Vitamin K2 is a collective term for a group of vitamin K analogs called menaquinones. Vitamin K2 can be obtained from the die, but it is also produced by the bacteria that line our intestinal tract. Recently, research has demonstrated that vitamin K2 can reduce the incidence of CHD. It has been found that vitamin K2 consumption is linked to fewer cases of CHD, less aortic calcification and lower mortality (4).

Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) is a vitamin-like compound present in all cells but is most concentrated in the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas (5). Co-Q10 cellular levels decrease with age and have been observed to be low in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Co-Q10 supplementation is beneficial in addressing cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension and congestive heart failure and has been shown to reduce heart attack risk (6).

Fish oils are high in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Daily consumption of one gram of fish oils from fish or fish oil supplements may decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke, and the progression of CHD. Consuming fish oil supplements is associated with a 23% reduction in overall mortality and a 32% reduction in death from cardiovascular causes in people with or without CHD. However, most Americans do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. Therefore, an omega-3 fatty acid supplement is an important and convenient way to meet the daily needs for this important nutrient.

Approximately one in three adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure or hypertension. Unfortunately, hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer” because most people don’t know they have it until significant disease symptoms appear. Untreated, hypertension increases the risk of CHD and stroke. Extracts of grape seed and arginine-based products may lower elevated blood pressure and may be useful to those who want to achieve and maintain cardiovascular health.

Created by Dr. William J. Keller

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References:

1. Becker M, Staab D, Von Bergmann K. Treatment of severe familial hypercholesterolemia in childhood with sitosterol and sitostanol. J Pediatr 1993 Feb;122(2):292-6.
2. Pelletier X, Belbraouet S, Mirabel D, Mordret F, Perrin JL, Pages X, Debry G. A diet moderately enriched in phytosterols lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations in normocholesterolemic humans. Ann Nutr Metab 1995;39(5):291-5.
3. Heber D, Yip I, Ashley JM, Elashoff DA, Elashoff RM, Go VL . Cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice dietary supplement. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999 Feb;69(2):231-6.
4. Geleijnse JM, Vermeer C, Grobbee DE, Schurgers LJ, Knapen MH, van der Meer IM, Hofman A, Witteman JC. Dietary intake of menaquinone is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease: the Rotterdam Study. J Nutr. 2004 Nov;134(11):3100-5.
5. Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 8th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2006:pg 351.
6. Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 8th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2006:pg 350.

I believe the best way to harness the power of our immune system is by providing nutrients and supplements that make it strong and prepared for this changing season.  In the past two years, I have attended a several seminars with Dr. Gordon Pedersen, P h. D.  in Toxicology and master’s degree in Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness. His investigation and scientific research on Silver Shield is at the top and most updated.

Liquid Silver Shield with sol technology is the best choice for viral and bacterial infections as well as for any epidemic outbreaks. The gel is also necessary because as Dr. Pederson explains, most the diseases are transferred by hand contact. Silver Shield Gel used on hands will help prevent as much as 70 percent of all contagious diseases.

 What is Silver Shield? Silver Shield consists of millions of microscopic silver particles electrically charged and suspended in water. It is used as a natural disinfectant and antiseptic and is known to kill a wide variety of harmful microorganisms.  This suspended solution of silver with Aqua Sol technology is truly a shield for everyone.  It is a powerful immune protector for children as well.   Dr. Gordon explains that this patented silver sol technology features an engineered nano particle of specific size and resonance that penetrates and neutralizes pathogens (virus, bacteria, fungus, yeast, etc) continuously.

This patented form of silver supplement Dr. Gordon says is safe enough to consume in a daily regimen while powerful enough to destroy the causes of many serious diseases like strep throat, staph, pneumonia, salmonella, dysentery, and yeast. The Shielding effect of silver is like your first line of defense, protecting the most vulnerable parts of the outside and inside of the body from contagious disease.

Dr. Pedersen’s research affirms that Silver Shield kills 99.9% of most bacteria, yeasts and molds within 10 minutes. Continues to kill pathogens with catalytic, not chemical action. Can be used internally as well as topically. It has multiple mechanisms of action to ensure its efficacy. It is non-toxic and safe at recommended levels. “To date, there are no potentially pathogenic bacteria tested that… {this} product has not killed”- Dr. R. Leavitt, Professor of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Brigham Young University.

Claims Found in the United States Patent # 7135195: Silver Sol has hundreds of approved claims in the patent. Some of the most significant pathogens killed include: MRSA, SARS, malaria, anthrax, gram negative bacteria, gram positive bacteria, nosocomial infections, viruses including hepatitis B, HIV, influenza, and over 143 individual uses covering bacteria, viruses and fungus. Silver Sol can be used as an internal and external disinfectant because it passes through the body unchanged, so it produces no dangerous metabolites and is cleared 99% by the next day. Uses: Viral infections, fevers, bacterial infections, hand disinfectant, sinus congestion, hay fever, ear infections, rashes, asthma, pneumonia and many other ailments (“ A Fighting Chance” Dr. Gordon Pedersen).

Other Herbs to the Rescue

Elderberry Immune Chewable for Children: Contains the protector shield blend, a whole food blend of 17 fruits and vegetables, which provide powerful phytochemical nutrients and antioxidants-potent plant compounds noted for their health protective benefits. This blend provides choline, inositol and 10 aminoacids—essential nutrients for healthy brain development and cell communication for growing children.

Immune System Pack [System]. This body system pack provides year-round immune system support, creates an environment inhospitable to foreign invaders and stimulates the body’s natural defenses. Contents include:
VS-C® TCM: This Chinese herbal combination creates a favorable environment for microbial balance and supports general detoxification and respiratory functions.
Elderberry D3fense: Combines the benefits of Elderberry Fruit and Vitamin D3 with other herbs to give a year round immune support.
Immune Stimulator: Promotes immune response by stimulating macrophage, T-cell, B-cell and cytokine activity.

Solstic Immune:  My favorite! It gives an immune boost in a convenient drink stick packet. A daily drinkable immune support. It is dissolved in water, tastes good, easy to drink, great for traveling.  Besides Elderberry fruit, Echinacea Purpurea and Vitamin D3, Solstic Immune contains natural ingredients like Panax Ginseng, Vitamin C, blueberry, cranberry, raspberry , blackberry fruits, chock full of antioxidants and immune protectors against foreign invaders.

Noted Products:

There is a school supply list that we follow thoroughly before school starts every year. There is also perhaps the most important supply list for our children: their healthy body supply list.

Statistics show that obesity in children has more than tripled in the past 30 years. Two facts that really concern me as a parent are:  the obesity increase on children aged 6 to 11, which has gone from 6.5% in 1980 to 19.6% in 2008. The second one is, that in children aged 5-14, the leading cause of death after accidents is cancer.  Also, in the last two decades, type 2 diabetes, a disease usually diagnosed in adults age 40 years and older, has been reported among children and adolescents with increasing frequency in the United States.

Let’s help our children to have a healthy start every day:

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day: Good sources of protein are crucial for a healthy start. It helps to nurture the brain to think, focus and perform physical activity.  Protein also helps to keep sugar levels balanced throughout the day. Smoothies are a great choice to bring all those important nutrients first thing in the morning if you and your children can’t go for the whole cooked meal. Coconut milk is a good choice, because coconut has Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs), these good fats are very important for the brain and  are not stored right  the way, but rather used in the body as energy.  You can also use almond milk or rice milk, which can be easily made at home. To either type of milk you choose, you can add a different fruit or fruits every morning. Raspberries, blueberries, black berries are a good option for their high content of antioxidants. Peaches are in season now and they make a very tasty smoothie. You can also add pecans or walnuts (for children five and older, avoid if there is any allergy to nuts), pumpkin-seeds (are very high in zinc, an important mineral for keeping the immune system strong),  ground sesame seeds (high in vegetable protein and calcium), ground flax seed, a tsp of Chia seeds (very high in protein and omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids). Bee Pollen is another complete form of protein (called a super food) plus it has all the vitamin B’s in high amounts. If you need a sweetener, use Stevia. Once you have all this ingredients, you can opt to add a protein powder that has a variety of nutrients to complement the smoothie like Love and Peas (made with yellow pea protein, beans protein, antioxidants from pomegranate, berries, grape seed extract, rice bran, bamboo fiber and Stevia as sweetener.  Blend it and serve. Because it is in a liquid form, it is rapidly absorbed, easy to drink and delicious tasting.

Snack and lunch time:

Use natural sources of drinks. I personally encourage my children to drink water. Water is an essential nutrient  their body needs. No added sugars are necessary.  Some studies show that a mere 2% drop in body water can trigger problems like fuzzy short-term memory and trouble with basic math.

Organic yogurt with chia seeds sprinkled on top and their favorite chopped fruit. An avocado sandwich, you can mix the chia seeds in it too for a complete little meal. Fish or chicken fingers sauteed in coconut oil are delicious and can be made the night before. Try to add vegetables to their lunch, but don’t stress out so much if they don’t want them, you can make up later at home. I always include them to add color and eventually they eat them, especially carrots, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.

Research also shows the importance of supplements for children. Minerals and vitamins are  necessary for growth and tissue repair, immune strength and healthy digestive system.  I like Sunshine Heroes Multi-Vitamin and Mineral, Super Omega 3 chewables in a delicious fish shape, Calcium plus Vitamin D, Elderberry Immune and Probiotic Power. These formulas contain a proprietary blend of whole foods, fruit juice concentrates and micronutrients, supplying health-protective antioxidants and phytochemical nutrients.

Noted Products: