Archive for the ‘Organizing’ Category

Is Using Valerian Root Extract Really Helpful For Getting Good Sleep?

Friday, October 19th, 2007

Valerian root extract is one of the more common herbal remedies used as a sleep aid. However, there is still debate over whether or not it is safe and effect. There has been much research done on this particular herb and some of the more recent studies shed some light on exactly how useful this herb is and what you can expect from it.

Valerian extract has not only become more popular with consumers, it has become a popular herb for researchers to test. There has been a jump in tests both for the herb individually and as an ingredient in combination supplements. Scientists have been taking a harder look at the claims made about this plant and have been working to test their validity.

They not only want to answer the question is valerian root safe, they want to know if it is effective and what exactly it can treat. The primary usage of the herb has been to help calm people and help them get to sleep. However, research is showing that it may have more uses than that.

There are some results that seem to indicate that valerian root extract helps a number of people fall asleep better and wake up more refreshed. It seems effective in all but the most severe cases of chronic insomnia. In those cases it may need to be combined with other natural ingredients to provide a more powerful effect.

The main benefit is that valerian extract works on the brain and body systems to calm them and help the brain produce sleep. However, that is not the only benefit or function it provides. Studies are also supporting the long tradition of using the herb to address anxiety, stress and other related issues. This not only helps reduce the effects of those issues on the body, but again provides the secondary benefit of helping a person sleep better as they are not kept awake by the effects of anxiety or stress.

As for the question of is valerian root safe, the answer seems to be yes. So far there have not been major issues noted in the studies regarding the herb. It is definitely less prone to side effects than sleep medicines or other drugs used to help people sleep. Additionally, there is not the usual next day grogginess that most people experience with medicines.

Valerian root extract may not help everyone, but it seems to be helpful to many. The reduced risk of side effects and lack of hangover the next day are definite pluses for those who struggle with sleep, but have problems with sleep medications. As with anything health related it is wise to check with a knowledgeable medical professional before taking, particularly if you are on other prescription medications as there is always the potential for interactions. However, if you are having trouble sleeping then you may want to take a closer look at a sleep supplement that includes valerian in the ingredients.

J. Wall has an avid interest in natural remedies for the treatment of Sleeplessness. He is a regular contributor to the Importance of Sleep section of http://www.sleep-help-center.com, a site dedicated to improving sleep for everyone.

Vitamins: A Key to Good Health

Saturday, October 6th, 2007

Vitamins are essential for proper body function. If you do not get enough of the essential vitamins you need, several problems can occur, from bone loss to headaches. So, the question you need to ask yourself is: Are you getting enough of the vitamins you need?
You need lots of vitamins, and all are going to strengthen your body in various ways. Let’s take a look at vitamin C, for example.

Vitamin C is a very important vitamin. Vitamin C is an essential vitamin to get enough of if you want to keep your immune system functioning and for keeping your connective tissue healthy. Vitamin C is a great vitamin to get enough of if you want to slow down the aging process. If you get enough vitamin C in your diet every day, it will help to keep away the wrinkles by keeping the connective tissue under the skin strong and healthy. Not to mention that vitamin C is a strong anti-oxidant, and is often used in large doses to treat patients with cancer and other chronic diseases.

Something to consider with vitamin C is that our bodies don’t store it very well and we can’t make it, so we must get all of our vitamin C from our diets. Eating a healthy diet chock full of fresh fruits and vegetables, we will get plenty of vitamin C. However, not everyone eats fruits and vegetables in the quantities needed to get enough vitamin C. Many can’t get their children to eat enough fruits and vegetables. So what is an alternative solution?

While nothing can completely replace the value of eating fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet, there are things you can do to fill in the gaps. Everyone needs 5 to 9 daily servings of fresh fruits and vegetables for the nutrients they contain and for general health, but if you take a look at your eating habits you will likely find that 5-9 servings is probably close to double what you and your children are actually getting.

The following is a list of some simple things you can do to implement more vitamins into your diet without significant changes to your daily routine:

-Instead of buying juices, try buying whole fruits and a juicer and making your own. It does not take much longer, and can provide you with many more vitamins than the prepackaged variety. The closer you get your food to nature the better it is going to be fore you.

-Have fresh veggies on hand and available for snacking. Cut cucumber, have baby carrots, and any of your other favorite vegetables, already washed and ready to go so that the next time you reach for a snack. It is as easy to grab a slice of fruit, or a piece of vegetable as it is to grab junk food.

-Make your own salsa, ketchup, etc., or buy the fresh made variety. While it is convenient to purchase processed salsa that does not require refrigeration until after it is opened, many of the nutritional values are lost. So, when you are in the mood for salsa, slice up your favorite salsa ingredients and eat fresh salsa.

-Try all natural supplementation of the vitamins and minerals your body is missing. A good choice for this option would be Zija. It is an all natural health beverage that is conveniently packaged in a small can that can easily fit in your purse or bag. It is made from the Moringa oleifera tree, which is an excellent source of many vitamins, including vitamin A, B, C, D and much more. It is also a great source for calcium, protein, and potassium. Zija does not have a bunch of artificial ingredients; rather, it is made from the parts of the tree that are the most nutritious, They are dried, ground up, then water is added to them and they are packaged to make a quick and easy drink.

-Have one day a week where you abstain from the junk, and load up on the good stuff. One day is not too much to ask, it is easy to do, and can taste great. While nutrition and health may be reasons you eat certain fruits and vegetables, there are many other reasons why you choose the ones you do, such as crunchiness, juiciness, or bright colors. Whatever the reason, try to eat them often; most are quick to prepare and easy to eat.

-Try all of the above, this is a great way to meet all of your nutritional needs with little change to your already established eating habits. You can make small adjustments like fresh juices and salsas, etc., instead of packaged ones, and then fill in the gaps of your diet with the well-rounded and extremely healthy drink Zija.

Eric Thorn, a successful businessman, highly recommends the Zija Moringa Beverage as a well-rounded and extremely healthy drink that fills in the gaps of your diet. Visit http://www.zijapower.com to learn more about Zija.

Colloidal Silver a Super Antibiotic

Monday, October 1st, 2007

Colloidal silver appears to be a powerful, natural antibiotic and preventative against infections. Acting as a catalyst, it reportedly disables the enzyme that one-celled bacteria, viruses and fungi need for their oxygen metabolism. They suffocate without corresponding harm occurring to human enzymes or parts of the human body chemistry. The result is the destruction of disease-causing organisms in the body and in the food.

Early Research Colloidal silver was in common use until 1938. Many remember their grandparents putting silver dollars in milk to prolong its freshness at room temperature. At the turn of the century, scientists had discovered that the body’s most important fluids are colloidal in nature: suspended ultra-fine particles. Blood, for example, carries nutrition and oxygen to the body cells. This led to studies with colloidal silver. Prior to 1938, colloidal silver was used by physicians as a mainstream antibiotic treatment and was considered quite “high-tech.” Production methods, however, were costly. The pharmaceutical industry moved in, causing colloidal research to be set aside in favor of fast working and financially lucrative drugs.

The Food and Drug Administration today classifies colloidal silver as a pre-1938 drug. A letter from the FDA dated 9/13/91 states: “These products may continue to be marketed . . . as long as they are advertised and labeled for the same use as in 1938 and as long as they are manufactured in the original manner.” Some of the manufacturing methods used before 1938 are still used today. An electro-colloidal process, which is known to be the best method, is used.

Contemporary Studies While studying regeneration of limbs, spinal cords and organs in the late 1970s, Robert O. Becker, M.D., author of The Body Electric, discovered that silver ions promote bone growth and kill surrounding bacteria. The March 1978 issue of Science Digest, in an article, “Our Mightiest Germ Fighter,” reported: “Thanks to eye-opening research, silver is emerging as a wonder of modern medicine. An antibiotic kills perhaps a half-dozen different disease organisms, but silver kills some 650. Resistant strains fail to develop. Moreover, silver is virtually non-toxic.” The article ended with a quote by Dr. Harry Margraf, a biochemist and pioneering silver researcher who worked with the late Carl Moyer, M.D., chairman of Washington University’s Department of Surgery in the 1970s: “Silver is the best all-around germ fighter we have.”

How It Works The presence of colloidal silver near a virus, fungus, bacterium or any other single celled pathogen disables its oxygen metabolism enzyme, its chemical lung, so to say. Within a few minutes, the pathogen suffocates and dies, and is cleared out of the body by the immune, lymphatic and elimination systems. Unlike pharmaceutical antibiotics, which destroy beneficial enzymes, colloidal silver leaves these tissue-cell enzymes intact, as they are radically different from the enzymes of primitive single-celled life. Thus colloidal silver is absolutely safe for humans, reptiles, plants and all multi-celled living matter.

Product Quality Many brands of colloidal silver are inferior. The highest grade is produced by the electro-colloidal / non-chemical method where the silver particles and water have been colloided, i.e., dispersed within and bound to each other by an electric current. The super-fine silver particles are suspended indefinitely in demineralized water. The ideal color of colloidal silver is a greenish. light colors indicate larger silver particles that tend to collect at the bottom of the container and are not true colloids. If a product contains a stabilizer or lists trace elements other than silver, or if it needs to be shaken, it is inferior. If a product requires refrigeration, some other ingredient is present that could spoil. Some brands with high concentrations of silver may actually not be completely safe. High concentrations of silver do not kill disease germs more effectively than the safe range of 15 to 25 parts per million (ppm.).

Ingesting Colloidal Silver Taken orally, the silver solution is absorbed from the mouth into the bloodstream, then transported quickly to the body cells. Swishing the solution under the tongue briefly before swallowing may result in faster absorption. In three to four days the silver may accumulate in the tissues sufficiently for benefits to begin. Colloidal silver is eliminated by the kidneys, lymph system and bowel after several weeks. If routinely exposed to dangerous pathogenic germs, some recommend a regular daily intake as a protection. In cases of minor burns, an accumulation of colloidal silver may hasten healing, reducing the possibility of scar tissue and infection. It is believed by many in the natural healing arts that the lives of millions of people who are susceptible to chronic low-grade infections can be enhanced by this preventative health measure.

Chronic or Serious Conditions 1 teaspoon of 20

ppm. colloidal silver equals about 25 micrograms (mcg.) of silver. 1 - 4 teaspoons per day (25 - 100 mcg.) is generally considered to be a “nutritional amount” and is reported to be safe to use for extended periods of time. Amounts higher than this are generally considered “therapeutic amounts” and should only be used periodically.

If your body is extremely ill or toxic, do not be in a hurry to clear up everything at once. If pathogens are killed off too quickly, the body’s five eliminatory channels (liver, kidneys, skin, lungs and bowel) may be temporarily overloaded, causing flu-like conditions, headache, extreme fatigue, dizziness, nausea or aching muscles. Ease off on the colloidal silver to a smaller amount and increase your distilled water intake. Regular bowel movements are a must in order to relieve the discomforts of detoxification. Resolve to reduce sugar and saturated fats from the diet, and exercise more. Given the opportunity, the body’s natural ability to heal may amaze you.

Topical Uses Some have used colloidal silver in a nasal spray mister - to reach the sinuses and nasal passages. Spray bottles have been used for topical use on kitchen and bathroom surfaces, skin, sore throat, eyes, burns, etc. Colloidal silver is painless on cuts, abrasions, in open wounds, in the nostrils for a stuffy nose, and even in a baby’s eyes because, unlike some antiseptics, it does not destroy tissue cells. It’s excellent as an underarm deodorant, since most underarm odor is caused by bacteria breaking down substances released by the sweat glands!

Some Common Uses of Colloidal Silver Natural health practitioners have for years recommended taking one tablespoon daily, for four days, to establish a level, then one teaspoon daily for maintenance (proportional to body weight for children). After six weeks, a pause of several weeks has also been recommended by some natural healing arts doctors. Also, colloidal silver can be applied directly to cuts, scrapes, and open sores, or on a bandage for warts. It can be applied on eczema, itches, acne or bug bites. To purify water, add one tablespoon per gallon, shake well and wait six minutes. Mixed this way, it’s tasteless. It is not an allopathic poison.

Veterinary and Garden Use Colloidal silver has worked just as well on pets of all kinds. Used in proportion to body weight, it should bring the same results. In the garden, field or greenhouse, add enough to the water or soil - and the plants will do the rest.

Tolerance To Disease Organisms We have all heard of the “super-germs” that are resistant to most modern antibiotics. Some believe that single-celled germs cannot mutate into silver-resistant forms, as happens with conventional antibiotics. Therefore no tolerance to colloidal silver would develop through mutation. Also, colloidal silver has not been demonstrated to interact or interfere with other medicines being taken. Inside the body, silver apparently does not form toxic compounds or react with anything other than a germ’s oxygen-metabolizing enzyme. Colloidal silver may truly be a safe, natural remedy for many of mankind’s ills.

Additionally, there has never been a drug interaction reported between colloidal silver and any other medication. It’s difficult to overdose - unless large amounts are ingested. Colloidal silver has been reported by users to be both a remedy and a prevention for numerous infections, and fermentations due to various bacteria, viruses or fungi, even the non-apparent low-grade, general body infections many people have. Living organisms are in the colloidal chemical state, not the crystalline state. Substances already in that form may be more readily assimilated by the body. Colloidal silver is the most useable form of a reputedly effective germ fighter.

A colloidal suspension is ultra-fine particles of one substance, suspended by an electric charge in another substance. Homogenized milk and aerosol sprays are colloidal suspensions. Colloidal silver is pure, metallic silver (not a chemical compound) of particles 15 atoms or fewer, each with a positive electric charge, and attached to a molecule of simple protein. This new particle floats in pure water. The electric charge is stronger than gravity so the silver particles don’t sink.

Colloidal Silver in Advance of Illness? When the possibility of germ exposure is higher, colloidal silver can be taken orally each day or applied topically when there is a skin problem. It’s like having a second defense system. The silver acts only as a catalyst and is stabilized. It is non-toxic, except to one-cell plants and animals, and is non-addicting. It also apparently kills parasites because they have a one cell egg stage in their reproductive cycle.

Older folks reportedly feel younger because their body energies are used for other uses than constantly fighting disease. Digestion has also been reportedly better. Medical research has shown that silver promotes more rapid healing, with less scar tissue, even in the case of severe burns. Successes have been reported in cases that previously have been given up by established doctors. Colloidal silver is tasteless and won’t sting even a baby’s eyes, and won’t upset your stomach.

More Than 650 Diseases Helped? Colloidal silver has been reported to kill 650 micro-organisms, many of which are associated with human diseases. This does not automatically mean that taking colloidal silver will “cure” diseases “caused” by these germs. Colloidal silver only kills micro-organisms when they are in contact with it for a sufficient period of time. The human body is a complex system which may prevent high enough concentrations of colloidal silver from reaching the “affected area”.

The basic guideline that has been recommended for using colloidal silver is that it usually “works” if you can get a high enough concentration to the “affected area”. Some will want to experiment with “higher amounts” (such as 8 or more ounces at a time) to find out what it takes to accomplish this. Do not use colloidal silver if you are allergic to contact with silver metals, or if you notice any digestive upset after use.

Peter Salazar’s source for quality supplements is http://www.utopiasilver.com

To read more information & natural remedies go here: http://utopiasilver.com/testimonials/

All products have a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE!

Help Your Child to Grow Up Strong and Healthy With The Best Kids Vitamins

Sunday, September 23rd, 2007

A healthy diet is that diet which contains plenty of vitamins and minerals to the children. The best way to assure that children get all the required vitamins and minerals is to emphasize the importance of eating a variety of healthy foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, lean meats, fish, whole grains, nuts, legumes, mil and cheese. Some kids prefer to eat a lot of junk foods and processed foods which may contain less nutritional content but instead have unhealthy fats, sugars and calories. Few children don’t prefer eating anything healthy at all, that is where best kids vitamins come in.

Research has shown that obesity, heart disease and cancer in adults often result from nutritional deficiency during childhood. People who are nourished with optimal intake of best vitamins, minerals, and herbs in child hood had healthy and happy adult age. Children’s need antioxidants and anti-inflammatories in large amount. So they should get large amounts of natural vitamins like vitamin A and C derived from fruits like oranges, strawberries, peaches, nectaries, mango etc, and vegetables like broccoli, carrots, squash, yams, and red bell peppers. When kids cannot eat that they need to take best kids vitamins.

These are the best kids’ vitamins. Folate one of the vitamin B, is the best kid vitamin and is very important for the body to use proteins, make DNA, cell growth and division. One of its important roles is reduction of homocysteine levels in the blood which can cause blood clot, irritation of the blood vessels and blockages in the arteries increasing the risk of heart attacks. So, best kids’ vitamins and minerals like folate, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, and E are very essential for growth.

Best kids Vitamin strengthen the immune system by stimulating the white blood cells to make antibodies. Vitamin A helps to make lysozyme, and also important anti infectious agents found in the tears, saliva and sweat. Other vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin E , are the best kids vitamins also play important role like healing of the wounds maintaining the fatty acids at optimum effiency and protection from infection. The incidence of diabetes, obesity, heart disease is increasing because of loss of vitamins in the food obtained from vending machines and can foods. No matter how hard you try to make sure your kids get the right vitamins and minerals in their diet, you just cannot know for sure.

Everyone needs vitamins buit children need them more athan anyone else. They are still growing and the vitamins and nutriends that they get from best kids vitamins will help them to grow strong and healthy. The best kinds vitamins will also help them to avoid diseases later on in life as well. If you want to make sure your child is as healthy as he or she should be then you need to start making sure they take their vitamins daily to make up for the nutrients they are lacking in their diets.

Discover lots more tips and tricks about kids nutrition and keeping your whole family fit and healthy at http://NutritionsVitamin.com

Zinc - Deficiency Symptoms and Health Benefits

Tuesday, September 18th, 2007

Zinc is an important mineral, which is essential for protein synthesis and helps to regulate the production of cells in the body’s immune system. It is mainly found in the muscles. Zinc is also found in high concentrations in red and white blood cells, the retina of the eye, bones, skin, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. In men, the prostate gland and semen (zinc is one of its constituents) store high amounts of zinc.

More than 300 enzymes in the human body require zinc for normal functioning. It is believed that around 3000 out of the 100,000 proteins involved in human life contain zinc. Our body contains about 2-3g of zinc.

Many organs of the body secrete zinc, including the pancreas, the salivary gland, and the prostate gland. Immune cells also secrete zinc.

Benefits of zinc –

- Zinc is vital to many biological functions such as immune resistance, digestion, reproduction, physical growth, diabetes control, appetite, stress level, taste and smell.

- It helps maintain normal taste and sense of smell, aids in wound healing, promotes normal foetal growth and boosts immunity. By boosting the immune system, zinc also helps protect against fungal infections and various infectious disorders, such as conjunctivitis and pneumonia.

- Zinc functions as an antioxidant and is involved in many decisive biochemical reactions, including enzymatic function, carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis.

- It plays an important role as a component of many enzymes regulating cell growth, DNA and protein synthesis, energy metabolism, regulation of gene transcription, hormonal levels in the body etc.

- It is required for fighting skin problems such as acne, boils and sore throats.

- It is also used as an astringent and an antiseptic for skin protection.

- Zinc is especially important for the prostate gland in males, and protects it from early damage that could lead to cancer.

- Zinc also promotes normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence (sexual development).

What foods are rich sources of zinc?

High-protein foods contain high amounts of zinc. Good food sources for vegetarian people include dairy products (milk, curd, yoghurt), beans and lentils, peanuts, peanut butter, seeds, fortified breakfast cereals, and wholegrain cereals. Pumpkin seeds are considered to be one of the most concentrated vegetarian dietary sources of zinc.

Dietary fibre (phytates, found in cereals, legumes) can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb zinc. Zinc is best absorbed by the body when taken with a meal that contains protein.

Red meat and poultry also provide good sources of zinc. Zinc absorption is greater from a diet high in animal protein than a diet rich in plant proteins. Thus, fruits and vegetables are not good sources of zinc.
Cooking helps reduce the adverse effects of both phytic acid and dietary fibre on zinc absorption.

Is excess zinc harmful?

Too much zinc can be harmful to the human body. Excessive absorption of zinc into the human body can lead to reduced iron function, and damage the immune system. The major adverse outcome of long-term consumption of excessive zinc is copper deficiency, along with stomachache, nausea, mouth irritation, and a bad taste.

Deficiency of zinc -

Zinc deficiency most often occurs when intake of zinc is inadequate or there is poor absorption by the body, or when there is increased excretion of zinc from the body, or when the body’s requirement for zinc increases.

Zinc is excreted through the faeces, urine, hair, skin, sweat, semen and during menstruation. Liver and pancreatic disorders, chronic alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, and absorption disorders lead to zinc deficiency.

Men should always make sure of sufficient quantity of zinc in their diets, since the health of their prostate gland is linked to zinc. Zinc is needed to manufacture testosterone and a shortage may induce a low sperm count, loss of libido.

Signs of zinc deficiency:

Symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, skin eruptions, diarrohea, degradation of body tissues, and, eventually death also.

Since a person’s vision, taste, smell and memory are all connected with proper levels of zinc in the body - a deficiency in zinc causes faulty working of these organs. Deficiency of zinc may lead to poor night vision, falling hair, white spots under fingernails, skin problems, sleep disturbances, reduced wound-healing, decreased appetite, a decrease in the sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, and poor development of reproductive organs.

Zinc deficiency can also lead to immune system dysfunction and stunted growth, impaired male fertility along with hormonal disbalance. Women may experience irregular menstrual periods, while males may have slow sexual maturity.

Zinc deficiency is common in people infected with the HIV virus or suffering from AIDS.
Zinc levels are also low in people with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes.
People with anorexia and bulimia are often deficient in zinc.

Children with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) tend to have lower blood zinc levels.

Dosage -

Normal intake of zinc of approximately 12-15 mg per day, is adequate to prevent deficiencies. Males require higher amounts of zinc as compared to females. However, normal daily-recommended intakes are different for different individuals such as -

- Adult and teenage males - 9 to 12 mg/day

- Adult and teenage females - 9 mg/day

- Pregnant females: 15 mg/day

- Lactating mothers: 15 mg/day

Read more on zinc, zinc deficiency symptoms and benefits of zinc.
Also Visit http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com for Information on Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids.

My Favorite Anti Aging Supplement

Sunday, September 16th, 2007

If you are looking for an anti aging supplement, you know
how confusing the information is. This article discusses
4 supplements, and how they fit into the anti-aging puzzle.

First, be very careful with growth hormone, or HGH.

Many people think HGH is the ultimate anti aging supplement,
but I disagree strongly. It is a great way to prolong
death in the short term, but the complications are worrisome -
heart disease and other nasty stuff.

My favorite supplements for anti-aging are nutritional, with
no long term negative side effects.

They are:

DHA. DHA is part of omega 3 essential fatty acids, and is
the part that research is showing to be the super-powerful
component that helps the entire body. It helps prevent
parkinsons, cancer, alzheimer’s, and a lot of other things.

The problem with DHA is bioavailability - many suppliers
sell DHA that doesn’t digest, so it’s useless. The best
sources are still fish oil derivatives, so if you want
to look for DHA, look for fish oil derivatives.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine. This is becoming very well known.
It is a nutrient that goes directly to the cell, and is
used to create energy - the basis of life.

If you use Acetyl-L-Carnitine, be sure to use alpha
lipoic acid - it helps fix the errors that more cellular
activity can create.

Another key nutrient is glutathione. It is also known
as the master antioxidant, because it fixes errors that
occur in every cell. If you could keep your glutathione
at youthful levels, you could party all night and keep
going like you did at 16.

Glutathione is another nutrient that can’t be taken orally
without it being destroyed, so avoid glutathione powders.

There are some sources that provide ways to restore
glutathione levels, which is the focus of my research
these days.

The best anti-aging supplement? Try ALC with ALA and
glutathione, and don’t forget to eat a balanced diet
and exercise regularly. Living to 160 is possible now
if you follow this guidance.

Jack Sinclair publishes the latest anti-aging discoveries

at anti aging supplements

http://www.maxdiscoveries.com

Magnesium - Deficiency and Benefit

Friday, September 14th, 2007

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral found in the body and is very essential for good health. It is mostly found in the bones (around 50%), teeth, and red blood cells. The other half is largely found inside cells of body tissues and organs. Only 1% of magnesium is found in blood. The body takes magnesium from the diet and excretes the excess through urine and stool. A balanced diet contains enough magnesium for the body’s functional requirements.

Magnesium is organically connected with the calcium level in the body. Thus, a critical balance has to be achieved between calcium and magnesium to assure proper use of both minerals.

Benefits of magnesium –

Magnesium is important to nearly every function and tissue of the body, from the heart to the bones - nearly everything. It is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body.

- Magnesium is an essential element, which influences many enzymes needed for protein digestion, energy production and nerve/muscle message transmission.

- Magnesium helps with the formation of bones and teeth and assists in the absorption of calcium and potassium.

- Magnesium is also used to relax the muscles. It assists in cellular metabolism and the production of energy, in collaboration with enzyme activity.

- It is used for muscle tone of the heart and assists in controlling blood pressure.

- Together with vitamin B12, it may help prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones.

- It helps prevent depression, dizziness, reduces cholesterol levels, muscle twitching, and pre-menstrual syndrome.

- It can help prevent the calcification of soft tissue and also prevent cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and certain forms of cancer.

- Magnesium assists the parathyroid gland to process vitamin D.

- Magnesium therapy has proved beneficial in treating bronchial asthma and migraine headaches.

- It helps support a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong.

- Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is actively involved in protein synthesis. It helps in the bio-synthesis of collagen.

- It assists in the absorption and metabolism of calcium, sodium, phosphorus and potassium.

- Magnesium is particularly important for maintaining a normal heart rhythm and is used by physicians to treat irregular heartbeat (arrythmia).

- Magnesium may also be beneficial for bladder problems in women.

Dietary sources of magnesium –

Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, are good sources of magnesium because of their chlorophyll content. Magnesium is readily available in mostly all foods that form the basis of a healthful diet -whole grains, fruits, dark-green leafy vegetables, fruits and nuts.
Rich vegan sources include legumes such as beans and peas, nuts and seeds, tofu, soybean flour, almonds, cashew nuts, pumpkin, walnuts, and whole unrefined grains are also good sources of magnesium. Refined grains are generally poor in magnesium. This is because, when white flour is refined and processed, the magnesium-rich germ and bran gets removed. Bread and flour made from whole grain wheat provides more magnesium than bread made from white refined flour.

Other good dietary sources of this mineral include peanuts, pistachio nuts, shredded wheat (dalia), bran, bananas, and baked potatoes (with skin), chocolate, and cocoa powder. Many herbs, spices also provide magnesium, such as coriander, dill seed, celery seed, sage, dried mustard, basil, fennel seed (saunf), cumin seed and poppy seed.

Tap water can also be a source of magnesium, but the amount varies depending on the water supply. Hard water contains more magnesium than soft water.

Magnesium deficiency -

Severe magnesium deficiency can result in low levels of calcium in the blood, termed as hypocalcemia.
Type 2 diabetes is associated with low levels of magnesium in the blood. People suffering from ulcerative colitis may also have low magnesium levels.

Magnesium levels tend to be low in people with chronic fatigue syndrome, ands reduced levels of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia).

Individuals with chronic mal-absorption problems such as Crohn’s disease, gluten sensitive enteropathy and intestinal surgery may lose magnesium through diarrohea and fat malabsorption, and thus need supplemental magnesium.

Causes of magnesium deficiency -

Along with a poor diet lacking in magnesium, absorption of magnesium by the body can be affected by causes such as dieting for weight loss; consumption of ‘’soft” water, which lacks minerals; various intestinal diseases; chronic alcoholism.

Large amounts of magnesium can be lost from the body due to prolonged and strenuous exercise, lactation, excessive sweating and chronic diarrohea.

People who are using drugs like diuretics and cancer drugs are also prone to deficiency. Disorders of the kidney, an overactive thyroid or parathyroid gland, low blood levels of potassium and high urine levels of calcium are some other causes leading to magnesium deficiency in the body.

Consumption of alcohol, diuretics, high levels of zinc in the body, consumption of high levels of Vitamin C and vitamin D also increase the body’s magnesium requirement.

Symptoms of magnesium deficiency:

Common symptoms of deficiency include –

- Anxiety, irritability

- Nausea and vomiting

- Numbness and tingling sensation in hands and feet

- Coronary artery spasms

- Gastro-intestinal problems including diarrohea

- Muscle spasticity

- Abnormal rhythmic palpitations of the heart

- Muscle contractions, even seizures

- Anaemia

- Weakness

- Insomnia

- Poor hair and nail growth

- Sudden death.

Recommended daily dosage of magnesium -

The recommended daily allowance is around :

- Males (below 30 years) - 400 mg per day

- Males (over 30 years) - 420 mg per day

- Females (below 30 years) - 310 mg/day

- Females (over 30 years) - 320 mg per day.

Magnesium supplements are normally taken in dosages of 750 - 1,000 mg per day.

Read more on magnesium, benefit of magnesium and benefit of magnesium.
Also Visit http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com for Information on Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids.

Vitamins: What Exactly Are Vitamins?

Thursday, August 30th, 2007

Most supplement references label vitamins as natural substances that the body
likes in small numbers for typical functioning. With limited exceptions the
human body cannot create or synthesize them. They must be supplied in the diet
or in dietary supplements. Vitamins are indispensable to the standard
functioning of our bodies. They are vital for our growth, vitality, and general
well being. So in layman’s terms; Vitamins are nutrients you harvest from food
because your body can not make them from scratch.

Another extremely important definition is; a nutritional supplement that can
be taken to enrich the diet. time and again times the terms vitamins,
supplements and minerals are run down exchange ably to illustrate this dietary
supplementation.

Vitamins, dietary Insurance.

Do you have to ingest vitamins, if you maintain a normal diet? Not long ago,
the answer from a majority authorities would have been a resounding “no”. Today,
though, there’s good support that consuming vitamins makes good sense for most
adults. What’s changed? Not only have scientists resolved why we absolutely have
vitamins for our regular daily bodily functions, but they are also piling up
factual evidence they do much more than hold off the so-called sicknesses of
deficiency, sickness like scurvy and rickets. drinking of numerous vitamins
above the minimum daily requirement could stop heart disease, cancer,
osteoporosis, and other chronic diseases.

most nutritional pros claim that the American diet is no longer only if
suitable percentages of fundamental nutrients. There are a number of issues that
contribute to this problem. Pollution, pesticides and over farming have lead to
vitamin and mineral depleted fruits and vegetables. Live stock exposed to a lot
of these same factors and added chemical exposure’s like steroids cut the
nutritional cost we obtain from their meats, eggs and milks.

While nutrition research continues to express the abating nutrition
usefulness in the staple foods of the regular diet, getting our nutrients from a
healthy, balanced diet is definitely not the answer, many Americans tend to fall
short in a range of vitamins and minerals.

The modern diet made up of fast foods, over refined sugars and grains and
heavily processed and preserved foods. With all these factors damagingly
distressing our dietary intake is no wonder that health and nutritional
community has predictable the necessity of vitamin supplementation for a healthy
diet. With vitamin info and mineral supplementations only just now acknowledged or
supposed roles in health and disease, and signals about likely revolutionary
roles, everyday Vitamin supplementation is key in your diet.

Dr Robert Buckley shares his knowledge of vitamins. With all the latest vitamins info on vitamins supplements.

How Effective Are Body Building Supplements Anyway?

Friday, August 17th, 2007

Currently there are quite a lot of people who are into body building or working out. Considering the appearance-conscious society that we live in today, many people are now going to the gym in order to have a great looking and healthy body. So, if you searching for a way to get that perfect body that you can proudly show off at the beach, you should consider enrolling in fitness programs that is usually found in the gym.

Regrettably body building requires a lot of discipline. You have to follow a firm workout schedule, and a strict diet that will be given to you by professional fitness trainers. If it is your first time as a body builder going to the gym you will probably see all of the advanced and professional body builders have a great looking body! If you want that kind of body, then you should know that there are supplements that they take in order to help them get the muscle mass they want and also the muscle strength they want. Supplements are something that you might want to considering using also to maximize your hard work in the gym.

Most supplements can be taken even by beginner body builders. If you want to see fast results, you should consider using body building supplements that can help you see results at the quickest time possible.

Important Supplement Facts

First of all, body building supplements don’t work all by themselves. It doesn’t necessarily mean that by taking the supplements, you can just sit back and relax and wait for your muscles to develop. The way dietary supplements work is by aiding your body, especially your muscles, reach its full potential in order for you to workout in an intensive level. This means you still have to follow a strict workout procedure as well as a strict diet in order to get the body you want.

What To Stay Away From

There are many different types of supplements on the market and a wide range of possible effects that they might have. You therefore have to be careful and think about what you are putting in your body instead of just popping them in your mouth. You will want to stay away from any illegal body building drugs like anabolic steroids. These can have serious side effects and even do long term permanent damage to your body. It is best to stay with all natural legal supplements like you can purchase at GNC.

Most Effective Supplements

One of the effective supplements to start off with is Creatine. This is a natural supplement that you body already makes. Creatine is naturally created in your liver, pancreas, and kidney area and then it is moved to your muscles through your blood. Creaine is used by the body to mend any damaged muscles. Therefore after a really intense workout you have torn down the muscles and basically torn or damaged them. Your muscles already have creatine in them and that is how the body naturally heals itself. However, by taking extra creatine in supplement form your body has more available and therefore the muscles can rebuild more quickly. Many people also report that they are able to workout harder then without the supplement. It is great at giving short boosts of energy and power while lifting.

Additionally you might want to consider taking a whey protein supplement. Obviously you naturally get some protein by just eating regular food on a daily basis. However, the body is only able to absorb so much of the protien when you are eating. By taking a supplement you can add to and enhance the amount of protein available in your body. As we all know protein is one of the major building blocks of the body. So after a strenuous workout when your muscles have been broken down by taking whey protein you provide everything your body needs to repair itself quickly.

There are many different effective body building supplements and as you spend more time working out talk with others in the gym and see what they use. Also if you have a personal trainer then talk to them about a supplementation program. As long as you are taking all natural supplements there is very little bad or harm your body. Just make sure you keep your supplements to a reasonable amount a little each day will do wonders but don’t over do it.

Chris runs a network of sites on body building check out this site for more
information on: Body
Building Supplements
and also check out here for great articles reviews and
more: Weight Lifting
and Bodybuilding information

Learn About Bee Pollen Propolis

Tuesday, August 7th, 2007

Bee pollen propolis is not usually spoken about enough, as it is a by-product of the famed bee pollen. The bees collect the pollen from the flower blossom to bring back to the hive and offer the colony. The workers in the hive then process this into many different things that you can find in the hive.

One of those amazing things is called bee pollen propolis but it is better known for its nickname of ‘bee glue’. It is used inside the hive for keeping the combs and spurs together and also to fix holes in the hive. This ‘bee glue’ is also used as a disinfectant in the hive as the nurse bees use it to sterilize the hive for the queen when she is about to have larvae.

Bee Pollen Propolis: The Ingredients

Bee pollen Propolis has its own category because of the unbelievable content of them as opposed to any other known product made by another species. Truly remarkable is what bee pollen propolis is when you describe the ingredients as well as note that this product not only has antibacterial properties, it also has antiviral properties and so is often found in many topical cream products as well as shampoos, makeup and of course, supplements. It contains a load of flavonoids, which are essential, and it is good for the skin.

Benefits of Bee Pollen Propolis and Products

Bee pollen propolis and other bee pollen products are the wave of the future. Every day there are more studies being done to prove in the medical and scientific world that bee pollen is not only a necessary supplement, its almost should be mandatory for every living thing to have some.

Our society as a whole does not get the proper nutrition for the body and that leads to the breakdown of healthy cells that are known to be the cause of cancers and other diseases. Sickness develops when the body isn’t being given the required nutrition it deserves.

Bee pollen is known as the perfect food, food of kings, the food of ages ago such in the age of Hippocrates and Pythagoras, who both prescribed bee pollen for many different ailments. There is no other health food on earth that has as many nutrients and vitamins as does bee pollen per ounce not even red meat has the protein that one tiny granule of bee pollen holds.

The product we personally use, located in the pristine source of New Zealand, is the most natural bee pollen source we have come across - http://www.bee-health-product.com

We have been using this supplement for over 3 years with excellent health results. We have achieved a general sense of well being and new improved energy levels.

We highly recommend you learn more on our bee pollen supplement of choice for further information.

Laura Hence is one of the editors for a series of nutrition web sites. Check out the recommended Bee supplement guide, for more information on bee pollen.