I have been telling anyone who will listen for ages that we should not cook with vegetable or seed oils. This is primarily due the them not being heat stable; when they are heated they become seriously bad for us, forming transfatty acids (the ones that may lead to a whole host of chronic diseases). On top of this, much of the literature produced over the last 30 years has been complete rubbish; promoting the use of processed oils over stable and safe saturated fats. Dont misunderstand me here, I am not saying that you should replace all your dietary fat with saturated fat, but you should get your unsaturated fats from whole and unprocessed sources. If you want to know what these are just ask.
Before I copy the text, I have copied a couple of relevant links that provide some more great info:
http://www.cookingforengineers.com/article/40/Saturated-Fats-Cholesterol-and-Heart-Disease
http://www.truthaboutabs.com/unhealthy-vs-healthy-cooking-oils.html
Happy reading!
Coconut oil is a
saturated fat and was drilled into our minds as deadly, but is it really so?
and saturated fats are they really bad? well recent researches prove that it is
not the saturated fat that is the real culprit. the real problem is the trans
fat found in all refined oils including refined Coconut oil.
pure Coconut oil contains medium chain
fatty acids which bypasses the carnitine system and goes directly to the liver
to be metabolized into energy. It increases thermogenesis and metabolism
and reduces body weight. Virgin coconut oil also reduces LDL (bad
cholesterol) and is the only oil in the planet that can increase HDL (good
cholesterol).
That” saturated
fats are bad fats and can cause heart disease “needs to be seriously
reconsidered.
The diet heart hypothesis is also at stake as
agreed by Framingham Heart Study Co-Director, Dr George Mann where he says "the diet heart hypothesis has been
repeatedly shown to be wrong and yet for complicated reasons of pride and
prejudice, the hypothesis continuues to be exploited by scientists,
fund-raising enterprises, food companies and even governmental agencies.”The
public is being deceived by te greatest health scam of the century".
And according to
Dr Willium Castelli the director of Framingham study " In Framingham
studies,the more saturated fat one ate, the more cholesterol one ate, the more
calories one ate, the lower people''s serum cholesterol.. we found that the
people who ate most cholesterol,ate the most saturated fat,ate the most calories
weighed the least and were the most physically active."
It is now proven that coconut oil even
destroys the Cytomegalovirus and Chlamydia pneumonia which is one of the
responsible factors for initiating atherosclerosis. Our ancestors of south East
Asia were all healthy when they consumed coconut products abundantly. A study
conducted in Safdarjung, New Delhi (1998)cooking myths &
realities> showed that the incidents of cancer, diabetes and heart disease
arose when Indians stopped using traditional oils like coconut oil and mustard
oil and started consuming the so called ''heart friendly'' cooking oils, which is
full of trans fat, the culprit that causes all these diseases, obtained from
hydrogenating and heating oils.
one of the healthiest oil is virgin coconut
oil.
numerous researched have been done with VCO.
Beneficial
effects of virgin coconut oil on lipid parameters and in vitro LDL oxidation. by Nevin KG,
Rajamohan T.
Department of
Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581,
India..where they found It reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides,
phospholipids, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol levels and increased HDL cholesterol
in serum and tissues. The PF of virgin coconut oil was also found to be capable
of preventing in vitro LDL oxidation with reduced carbonyl formation.
CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated the potential beneficiary effect of virgin
coconut oil in lowering lipid levels in serum and tissues and LDL oxidation by
physiological oxidants. This property of VCO may be attributed to the
biologically active polyphenol components present in the oil.According to Dr
Mary Enig a renowed lipid biochemist,( who has done more than 20 years of
research on fats) says, the problems for coconut oil started four decades ago when
researchers fed animals hydrogenated coconut oil that was purposely altered to
make it completely devoid of any essential fatty acids... The animals fed the
hydrogenated coconut oil (as the only fat source) naturally became essential
fatty acid deficient; their serum cholesterol increased. Diets that cause an
essential fatty acid deficiency always produce an increase in serum cholesterol
levels as well as in increase in the atherosclerotic indices. The same effect
has also been seen when other ...highly hydrogenated oils such as cottonseesoybean or corn oils have been fed; so it is clearly a function of the
hydrogenated products, either because the oil is essential fatty acid (EFA)
deficient or because of transfatty acids."
What about studies where animals were fed
unprocessed coconut oil? Enig wrote: "Hostmark et al (1980) compared the
effects of diets containing 10% coconut oil and 10% sunflower oil on
lipoprotein distribution in male Wistar rats. Coconut oil feeding produced significantly
lower levels (p=0.05) of pre-beta lipoproteins (VLDL) and significantly
higher (p=<0.01) alpha-lipoproteins (HDL) relative to sunflower
feeding." (Editor''s note: HDLs are considered the good cholesterol as they
prevent deposits of LDL cholesterol on artery walls.) She also cited a study by
Awad (1981) on Wistar rats fed a diet of either 14% (natural) coconut oil or
14% safflower oil. She stated:"Total tissue cholesterol accumulation for
animals on the safflower diet was six times greater than for animals fed
the coconut oil. A conclusion that can be drawn from some of
the animal research is that feeding hydrogenated coconut oil devoid of
essential fatty acids (EFA) ...potentate the formation of atherosclerosis
markers. It is of note that animals fed regular coconut oil have less
cholesterol deposited in their livers and other parts of their bodies."
Enig also referred to epidemiological studies done by Kaunitz and Dayrit (1992)
on coconut eating societies who found that "available population studies show
that dietary pure coconut oil does not lead to high serum cholesterol nor to
high coronary heart disease.." It is noteworthy that hydrogenated
coconut oil was not consumed by these coconut eating societies; they only
consumed natural coconut oil. her final conclusion was "everything the
public has been told about vegetable oils on television for the past 15 years
has been half truths and leading the public to the wrong conclusions. The
public has been led to believe that tropicals will clog your arteries and cause
heart disease. In fact, the opposite is true; natural tropical oils will help
prevent hardening of the arteries while most liquid vegetable oils will
increase hardening of the arteries!"
As a practising Doctor in Oman for almost two decades, I find what the above researchers say
is 100% correct in my experience with my patients, All my patients who avoid
the refined oils and who switch on to virgin coconut oil, and olive oil ( olive
oil is not to be cooked, for it is oxidized by light & heat.). and those
who take a lot of fish and meat ( grilled not fried) are much healthier than
those who use the so called " heart friendly" refined oils and
consumed fried fish and meat. Virgin coconut oil can be safely used for cooking
because it is
nearly a completely saturated fat, which means it is much less susceptible to
damage when it is heated, and the heat labile point of VCO is also very high.
So I feel it is
time for us to re evaluate our present knowledge and brain washed notion on
saturated fats and cholesterol, and bring back into our patients their
traditional eating habits which has been passed down from generation to
generation and lead them to good health.
As Doctor
RusselL.Smith Phd (Author of authoritive study on CHD) has righty pointed out
that "the relevant literature is permeated with fraudulent
material that is designed to convert negative evidence into positive evidence
with respect to lipid hypothesisi. that fraud is relatively easy to
detect."
Tuesday, 8 July 2008
Monday, 30 June 2008
Do Arthritis Drugs Cause Cancer?
This was taken from www.mercola.com and is another great example of how we can use complementary medicine to help people in their lives, without causing devastating side effects. In the article he recommends some products that lifeengineer supplies, namely GNLD salmon oil plus (the worlds only omega 3 oil with all 8 omega 3 fats) and emotional healing (with kinesiology we have the most effective tool found today). Happy reading.
Do Arthritis Drugs Cause Cancer?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating whether four drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other immune system diseases might increase the risk of cancer in children.
The FDA has received reports of 30 cases of cancer among children and young adults treated with the drugs. The agency did not make clear how many children had taken the drugs.
The drugs involved are:
All of the drugs block a protein called tumor necrosis factor, and are therefore known as TNF-blockers. They are used to treat not only rheumatoid arthritis but also psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and other immune diseases.
Because the drugs block part of the immune system, it’s long been known that they might contribute to a higher risk of cancers and infections. The drugs’ labels contain warnings as such, including warning about a risk of lymphomas, which are cancers of immune system cells.
Among adults, meanwhile, one study found that those given Humira or Remicade to treat rheumatoid arthritis had 2.4 times the cancer rate of those in control groups.
Do Arthritis Drugs Cause Cancer?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating whether four drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other immune system diseases might increase the risk of cancer in children.The FDA has received reports of 30 cases of cancer among children and young adults treated with the drugs. The agency did not make clear how many children had taken the drugs.
The drugs involved are:
1. Enbrel, sold by Amgen and Wyeth
2. Remicade, sold by Johnson & Johnson and Schering-Plough
3. Humira, sold by Abbott Laboratories
4. Cimzia, sold by the Belgian company UCB
2. Remicade, sold by Johnson & Johnson and Schering-Plough
3. Humira, sold by Abbott Laboratories
4. Cimzia, sold by the Belgian company UCB
All of the drugs block a protein called tumor necrosis factor, and are therefore known as TNF-blockers. They are used to treat not only rheumatoid arthritis but also psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and other immune diseases.
Because the drugs block part of the immune system, it’s long been known that they might contribute to a higher risk of cancers and infections. The drugs’ labels contain warnings as such, including warning about a risk of lymphomas, which are cancers of immune system cells.
Among adults, meanwhile, one study found that those given Humira or Remicade to treat rheumatoid arthritis had 2.4 times the cancer rate of those in control groups.
Sources:
Finally, the Truth About BlueTooth Wireless Technology… |
| Find Out More |
 | Dr. Mercola's Comments: |
| Rheumatoid arthritis can be a devastating disease during which your body starts destroying itself, but there’s no need to wait for the FDA to investigate this one. Most arthritis drugs are simply far too dangerous to use. Studies had already linked Humira and Remicade, for instance, to:
It’s sad, though, because if you visit a rheumatologist most of them will prescribe these drugs right off the bat, as though they are the only option. And though they may help to ease your pain, they’re doing it at what expense? Cancer down the road? Tuberculosis? A lung tumor? These are astronomical risks! Not to mention that these drugs are expensive. The cost of using Remicade for one year is about $12,000. No, I did not put an extra zero in there. This explains why Remicade, Humira and Enbrel had combined sales of more than $13 billion in 2007. If You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis, You do Have a Choice Drugs are NOT the only option, and this is something that most doctors won’t tell you. You have the choice to forgo arthritis drugs and their nasty side effects in favor of some lifestyle modifications. The following plan, which is based on my revision of Dr. Brown’s Antibiotic Protocol, has helped thousands of people with rheumatoid arthritis go into remission. I have treated over 3,000 patients with this protocol since the late '80s and the success rate is well over 80%. It really is amazing how powerful the healing potential of your body is once you address causal factors and provide it with the essential healing tools and resources. The protocol involves: 1. Improving your diet using a combination of my nutritional guidelines and nutritional typing. 2. Getting plenty of omega-3 fats by taking a high-quality, animal-based omega-3 supplement, like krill oil. 3. Getting your vitamin D levels checked and, if necessary, taking a supplement if you can't get daily sun exposure. This is absolutely crucial and, in my opinion, gross medical negligence and malpractice if it is not performed on nearly every RA patient as nearly all RA patients have low vitamin D levels 4. Having an effective method of addressing the nearly universal underlying emotional distresses that are present in most all autoimmune diseases like RA. 5. Incorporating regular exercise into your daily schedule. If your joints are painful, gentle exercises like yoga and Tai Chi are recommended. You may also want to have a consultation with an exercise professional so no permanent joint damage is done as a result of joint deformities. What About Psoriasis and Crohn’s Disease? Many people are also given arthritis drugs to treat these conditions, but these are two more examples of conditions that can be remedied without taking drugs that increase your risk of cancer. About 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, a skin disorder that causes scaly red patches. Carolyn Dean has written about some great natural methods to heal psoriasis, among them:
As for curing Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), naturally, the recommendations are much in the same:
| |
Monday, 23 June 2008
BAD SCIENCE + BAD MEDIA = CONFUSED CONSUMERS
BAD SCIENCE + BAD MEDIA = CONFUSED CONSUMERS
The latest sleight of hand from the anti-vitamin lobby
16 April 2008
By Robert Verkerk PhD (Executive & Scientific Director) and Dr Damien Downing (Medical Director)
Today sees the release of yet another “study” led by Serbian scientist and “visiting researcher” at Copenhagen University Hospital, Goran Bjelakovic. His name is now synonymous with vitamin meta-analyses (studies of other studies) which appear to show that vitamin supplements either don’t work or end up increasing your risk of death. Two recent bursts of negative international headlines on vitamins supplements (1 October 2004 and 28 February 2007) followed releases of previous research papers (see asterisked articles in Reference list below).
What consumers need to know and are not being told is:
1. This isn’t new. This isn’t a new study! This a scientific rehash of the very same data sets that led to the previous negative studies – and these methodologies tell us nothing about the way in which high quality combinations of nutrient supplements work! For a previous critique on why the methods used are irrelevant, see a detailed analysis by Dr Steve Hickey, a member of the ANH Scientific Expert Committee: http://www.alliance-natural-health.org/_docs/ANHwebsiteDoc_270.pdf
2. This isn’t research. This is a re-analysis of studies that have been conducted and reported on previously, by a man at a computer. In this case a group of men with a known axe to grind, who have never produced a study favourable to supplements, which is itself statistically unlikely unless you have a bias.
3. This isn’t meaningful. When you select or reject studies on criteria that only mean something to statisticians, and ignore important things like duration, how long the study ran for — which ranged from 28 days to 14 years — your findings are immediately meaningless. Even the huge difference in dose of supplements between different studies — Vitamin E ranging from 10 to 5000 units daily, for instance — they didn’t deem important.
4. Two bites at the cherry. The anti-vitamin lobby has managed to benefit, yet again, from more anti-vitamin headlines, just by republishing the same study on previous studies – again! Bjelakovic’s latest assault, published today through the Cochrane Review system, is more or less a dead ringer for a paper by the very same authors, published last year (28 February 2007) in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Extensive international media followed the 2007 JAMA paper, including a front page article in the Times newspaper, which told consumers that vitamin pills could cause early death. Today’s Cochrane review relies on 67 studies rather than the 68 used in the JAMA paper. In evaluating studies for inclusion, the authors omitted a massive 405 potentially eligible studies BECAUSE there were no deaths in the studies!! Another 69 studies were excluded because they weren’t randomised controlled trials! Most of the trials used pertain to already sick people being given very high dose, synthetic, isolated nutrients for relatively short periods – they therefore have no relevance to the vast majority of vitamin consumers!
5. These studies apply only to synthetic forms of vitamins (as produced by the pharmaceutical industry). The authors of this latest Cochrane review state: “The present review does not assess antioxidant supplements for treatment of specific diseases (tertiary prevention), antioxidant supplements for patients with demonstrated specific needs of antioxidants, or the effects of antioxidants contained in fruits or vegetables.” This shows that the study has no relevance to natural sources of vitamins and minerals or antioxidants sourced from plants (e.g. flavanoids, anthocyanins, sulforaphanes, salvestrols/resveratrol, etc.), which are included in many of the leading-edge natural health supplements claiming potent antioxidant activity.
6. There is extensive scientific evidence that higher intakes of vitamins in the forms and combinations consumed in the diet substantially reduce risk of killer diseases such as cancer and heart disease. In fact, it is this research (some of which is referenced in the introduction to both the JAMA and Cochrane papers) that has stimulated pharmaceutical companies to undertake research on pharmaceutical-grade, synthetic forms of supplements, which they manufacture. There are good reasons why this pharma-sponsored research has generally yielded disappointing results. These reasons have been considered in many previous rebuttals. See also: http://www.alliance-natural-health.org/_docs/ANHwebsiteDoc_231.pdf
7. Over the top on synthetics! The studies included in the latest meta-analysis rely on very high dosages of pharmaceutical-grade, synthetic forms of supplements manufactured by the pharmaceutical industry. The dosages used are typically much greater than those recommended on the labels of food or dietary supplement products. In most countries, the dosages used in the trials would be considered ‘medicinal’ by regulatory authorities and therefore would not legally be allowed for food or dietary supplements.
The authors, the editorial boards of the journals that so readily accommodate the papers, as well as the media which then spin the findings, appear unable to bear the thought that consumers know what they are doing.
They forget the power of experience and observation, and that so many people taking these products have experienced startling, positive results. If you read a headline in a newspaper relaying some anti-vitamin hype from an anti-supplement research group in Denmark and you, and your friends and family around you, have all experienced positive results with supplements, would you stop taking your supplements?
Have they forgotten the significance of the countless findings of observational and epidemiological studies, which demonstrate strong correlations between high intakes of natural sources of nutrients and substantially reduced risks of chronic disease?
Do they not realise that their failure to duplicate these results with synthetic vitamins might be more down to the differences between natural and synthetic, as well as the non-applicability of their methods, rather than that their meta-analyses have now disproven what has been observed scientifically over decades?!
They forget, it seems, that most people are already, or are fast becoming, disillusioned with evidence-based medicine (EBM), which is now generally agreed, scientifically, to be the third or fourth leading cause of death in western societies.
It seems also that more and more people no longer wish to worship at the altar of EBM, the most important component of which is the randomised clinical trial (RCT). RCTs, the gold standard for EBM, fail, for reasons that are becoming increasingly clear, to amply demonstrate or help elucidate the complex responses that humans show when they choose to engage in natural systems of healthcare. Science is able to answer many questions, but not when its tools are used either by those with narrowed minds or those with an insatiable desire to control healthcare through the use of patented drugs based on new-to-nature molecules.
It has to be asked what the Cochrane Collaboration is doing, allowing, endorsing and indeed promoting unscientific, invalid rehashes such as this. Cochrane were supposed to be the only guys you really could trust.
REFERENCES
**Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Gluud LL, Simonetti RG, Gluud C. Mortality in randomized trials of antioxidant supplements for primary and secondary prevention: systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA. 2007 Feb 28; 297(8):842-57. Review.
Bjelakovic G, Nagorni A, Nikolova D, Simonetti RG, Bjelakovic M, Gluud C. Meta-analysis: antioxidant supplements for primary and secondary prevention of colorectal adenoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2006 Jul 15;24(2):281-91. Review.
Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Simonetti RG, Gluud C. Antioxidant supplements for preventing gastrointestinal cancers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004 Oct 18;(4):CD004183. Review.
*Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Simonetti RG, Gluud C. Antioxidant supplements for prevention of gastrointestinal cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet. 2004 Oct 2-8;364(9441):1219-28. Review.
** Paper on which latest Cochrane review is based; negative findings created wide media interest
* Paper which created extensive media interest and formed basis of Cochrane review published in the same month.
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
another vote for free range chickens!
For those of us who watched Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall's River Cottage Spring, we were once again treated to a smorgasbord of why we should grow and eat more of out own food. But, most importantly, we also found out another reason to eat free range chicken: that not only is it lower in fat than battery raised chicken, but also that it is higher in the all important omega 3 fats. 10x higher no less.
Go here for Hugh's page on the channel 4 website. http://www.channel4.com/food/on-tv/river-cottage/river-cottage-spring/episode-4-gooseberries-and-garlic-08-06-18_p_6.html
Enjoy! (both the show, and the knowledge)
Go here for Hugh's page on the channel 4 website. http://www.channel4.com/food/on-tv/river-cottage/river-cottage-spring/episode-4-gooseberries-and-garlic-08-06-18_p_6.html
Enjoy! (both the show, and the knowledge)
Sunday, 15 June 2008
are eggs bad, really?
This was sent to me via my subscription to the Metabolic Typing advisors forum. Makes for interesting reading, and gives more evidence that dietary intake of cholesterol and blood cholesterol are not the best indicators of risk for Cardiovascular disease. Happy reading
David Vaughan
www.foodpharmacy.com <http://www.foodpharmacy.com/ >
From: www.naturalstandard.com <http://www.naturalstandard.com/ >
A new study supports consuming eggs in moderation after finding no evidence
that eggs increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels are collectively known as
cardiovascular diseases. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries), coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, arrhythmia
(irregular heartbeat), heart failure, high blood pressure, low blood
pressure, shock, endocarditis (bacterial infection of the heart), diseases
of the aorta and its branches, disorders of the peripheral vascular system
and congenital heart disease.
Reducing dietary cholesterol is important for preventing cardiovascular
disease (CVD). Researchers from Harvard Medical School explained that
although eggs are high in cholesterol, there is limited and inconsistent
evidence that egg consumption increases CVD risk and mortality.
The researchers examined the association between egg consumption and
cardiovascular disease in 21,327 participants from the Physicians' Health
Study I. Egg consumption was assessed with an abbreviated food
questionnaire.
After an average follow-up of 20 years, 1,550 new heart attacks, 1,342
incident strokes and 5,169 deaths occurred. The study found that egg
consumption was not associated with incident heart attack or stroke.
The study authors concluded that occasional egg consumption does not seem to
influence the risk of CVD in males. However, egg consumption was positively
correlated with mortality, especially in diabetic subjects.
Integrative therapies with strong scientific evidence in the treatment of
heart conditions include beta-glucan, beta-sitosterol, niacin, omega-3 fatty
acids, policosanol, psyllium, red yeast rice and soy. These can be ingested
through a healthy diet in addition to eggs.
Beta-glucan is a fiber that comes from the cell walls of algae, bacteria,
fungi, yeasts and plants. Numerous trials have examined the effects of oral
beta-glucan on cholesterol. Small reductions in total and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) have been reported. Little
to no significant changes have been noted to occur on triglyceride levels or
high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) levels.
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables,
soybeans, breads, peanuts and peanut products. It is also found in bourbon
and oils. Many human and animal studies have found that supplementation of
beta-sitosterol into the diet decreases total serum cholesterol as well as
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a well-accepted
treatment for high cholesterol. Multiple studies show that niacin (not
niacinamide) has significant benefits on levels of high-density cholesterol.
Niacin has been shown to produce better results than prescription drugs.
There are also benefits on levels of low-density cholesterol, although these
effects are less dramatic.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish
oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA). Multiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with
intake of omega-3 fatty acids. There is strong scientific evidence from
human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements (EPA
+ DHA) significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. Benefits appear to be
dose-dependent. Fish oil supplements also appear to cause small improvements
(increases) in high-density lipoprotein. However, increases (worsening) in
low-density lipoprotein levels are also observed. The American Heart
Association has published recommendations for EPA + DHA. Because of the risk
of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids, a qualified healthcare provider should
be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.
Policosanol is a natural mixture of alcohols derived from plant-based waxes
that has been shown to lower cholesterol. Policosanol has been used and
recommended to treat high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia). Numerous
studies have analyzed the effects of policosanol on cholesterol levels and
have found benefits. At this time, the evidence supporting the efficacy of
this agent is compelling, although greater acceptance in the U.S. market may
await additional larger studies.
Psyllium, also known as ispaghula, comes from the husks of the seeds of
Plantago ovata. Psyllium is well studied as a lipid-lowering agent with
generally modest reductions seen in blood levels of total cholesterol and
low-density lipoprotein. Because only small reductions have been observed,
people with high cholesterol should discuss the use of more potent agents
with their healthcare providers. Effects have been observed in adults and
children, although long-term safety in children is not established.
Red yeast rice (RYR) is the product of yeast (Monascus purpureus) grown on
rice. Since the 1970s, human studies have reported that red yeast lowers
blood levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein/LDL and
triglyceride levels. Other products containing red yeast rice extract can
still be purchased. However, these products may not be standardized and
effects are unpredictable. For lowering cholesterol, there is better
evidence for using prescription drugs such as lovastatin.
Soy is a subtropical plant native to southeastern Asia. Numerous human
studies report that adding soy protein to the diet can moderately decrease
blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Small
reductions in triglycerides may also occur, while high-density lipoprotein
does not seem to be significantly altered. It is unknown if products
containing isolated soy isoflavones have the same effects as regular dietary
intake of soy protein.
For more information on these therapies, please visit Natural Standard's
Foods,
www.foodpharmacy.com <http://www.foodpharmacy.com/ >
From: www.naturalstandard.com <http://www.naturalstandard.com/ >
A new study supports consuming eggs in moderation after finding no evidence
that eggs increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels are collectively known as
cardiovascular diseases. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries), coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, arrhythmia
(irregular heartbeat), heart failure, high blood pressure, low blood
pressure, shock, endocarditis (bacterial infection of the heart), diseases
of the aorta and its branches, disorders of the peripheral vascular system
and congenital heart disease.
Reducing dietary cholesterol is important for preventing cardiovascular
disease (CVD). Researchers from Harvard Medical School explained that
although eggs are high in cholesterol, there is limited and inconsistent
evidence that egg consumption increases CVD risk and mortality.
The researchers examined the association between egg consumption and
cardiovascular disease in 21,327 participants from the Physicians' Health
Study I. Egg consumption was assessed with an abbreviated food
questionnaire.
After an average follow-up of 20 years, 1,550 new heart attacks, 1,342
incident strokes and 5,169 deaths occurred. The study found that egg
consumption was not associated with incident heart attack or stroke.
The study authors concluded that occasional egg consumption does not seem to
influence the risk of CVD in males. However, egg consumption was positively
correlated with mortality, especially in diabetic subjects.
Integrative therapies with strong scientific evidence in the treatment of
heart conditions include beta-glucan, beta-sitosterol, niacin, omega-3 fatty
acids, policosanol, psyllium, red yeast rice and soy. These can be ingested
through a healthy diet in addition to eggs.
Beta-glucan is a fiber that comes from the cell walls of algae, bacteria,
fungi, yeasts and plants. Numerous trials have examined the effects of oral
beta-glucan on cholesterol. Small reductions in total and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) have been reported. Little
to no significant changes have been noted to occur on triglyceride levels or
high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) levels.
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables,
soybeans, breads, peanuts and peanut products. It is also found in bourbon
and oils. Many human and animal studies have found that supplementation of
beta-sitosterol into the diet decreases total serum cholesterol as well as
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a well-accepted
treatment for high cholesterol. Multiple studies show that niacin (not
niacinamide) has significant benefits on levels of high-density cholesterol.
Niacin has been shown to produce better results than prescription drugs.
There are also benefits on levels of low-density cholesterol, although these
effects are less dramatic.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish
oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA). Multiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with
intake of omega-3 fatty acids. There is strong scientific evidence from
human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements (EPA
+ DHA) significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. Benefits appear to be
dose-dependent. Fish oil supplements also appear to cause small improvements
(increases) in high-density lipoprotein. However, increases (worsening) in
low-density lipoprotein levels are also observed. The American Heart
Association has published recommendations for EPA + DHA. Because of the risk
of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids, a qualified healthcare provider should
be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.
Policosanol is a natural mixture of alcohols derived from plant-based waxes
that has been shown to lower cholesterol. Policosanol has been used and
recommended to treat high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia). Numerous
studies have analyzed the effects of policosanol on cholesterol levels and
have found benefits. At this time, the evidence supporting the efficacy of
this agent is compelling, although greater acceptance in the U.S. market may
await additional larger studies.
Psyllium, also known as ispaghula, comes from the husks of the seeds of
Plantago ovata. Psyllium is well studied as a lipid-lowering agent with
generally modest reductions seen in blood levels of total cholesterol and
low-density lipoprotein. Because only small reductions have been observed,
people with high cholesterol should discuss the use of more potent agents
with their healthcare providers. Effects have been observed in adults and
children, although long-term safety in children is not established.
Red yeast rice (RYR) is the product of yeast (Monascus purpureus) grown on
rice. Since the 1970s, human studies have reported that red yeast lowers
blood levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein/LDL and
triglyceride levels. Other products containing red yeast rice extract can
still be purchased. However, these products may not be standardized and
effects are unpredictable. For lowering cholesterol, there is better
evidence for using prescription drugs such as lovastatin.
Soy is a subtropical plant native to southeastern Asia. Numerous human
studies report that adding soy protein to the diet can moderately decrease
blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Small
reductions in triglycerides may also occur, while high-density lipoprotein
does not seem to be significantly altered. It is unknown if products
containing isolated soy isoflavones have the same effects as regular dietary
intake of soy protein.
For more information on these therapies, please visit Natural Standard's
Foods,
David Vaughan
www.foodpharmacy.com <http://www.foodphar
From: www.naturalstandard.com <http://www.naturals
A new study supports consuming eggs in moderation after finding no evidence
that eggs increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels are collectively known as
cardiovascular diseases. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries), coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, arrhythmia
(irregular heartbeat), heart failure, high blood pressure, low blood
pressure, shock, endocarditis (bacterial infection of the heart), diseases
of the aorta and its branches, disorders of the peripheral vascular system
and congenital heart disease.
Reducing dietary cholesterol is important for preventing cardiovascular
disease (CVD). Researchers from Harvard Medical School explained that
although eggs are high in cholesterol, there is limited and inconsistent
evidence that egg consumption increases CVD risk and mortality.
The researchers examined the association between egg consumption and
cardiovascular disease in 21,327 participants from the Physicians' Health
Study I. Egg consumption was assessed with an abbreviated food
questionnaire.
After an average follow-up of 20 years, 1,550 new heart attacks, 1,342
incident strokes and 5,169 deaths occurred. The study found that egg
consumption was not associated with incident heart attack or stroke.
The study authors concluded that occasional egg consumption does not seem to
influence the risk of CVD in males. However, egg consumption was positively
correlated with mortality, especially in diabetic subjects.
Integrative therapies with strong scientific evidence in the treatment of
heart conditions include beta-glucan, beta-sitosterol, niacin, omega-3 fatty
acids, policosanol, psyllium, red yeast rice and soy. These can be ingested
through a healthy diet in addition to eggs.
Beta-glucan is a fiber that comes from the cell walls of algae, bacteria,
fungi, yeasts and plants. Numerous trials have examined the effects of oral
beta-glucan on cholesterol. Small reductions in total and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) have been reported. Little
to no significant changes have been noted to occur on triglyceride levels or
high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) levels.
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables,
soybeans, breads, peanuts and peanut products. It is also found in bourbon
and oils. Many human and animal studies have found that supplementation of
beta-sitosterol into the diet decreases total serum cholesterol as well as
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a well-accepted
treatment for high cholesterol. Multiple studies show that niacin (not
niacinamide) has significant benefits on levels of high-density cholesterol.
Niacin has been shown to produce better results than prescription drugs.
There are also benefits on levels of low-density cholesterol, although these
effects are less dramatic.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish
oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA). Multiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with
intake of omega-3 fatty acids. There is strong scientific evidence from
human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements (EPA
+ DHA) significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. Benefits appear to be
dose-dependent. Fish oil supplements also appear to cause small improvements
(increases) in high-density lipoprotein. However, increases (worsening) in
low-density lipoprotein levels are also observed. The American Heart
Association has published recommendations for EPA + DHA. Because of the risk
of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids, a qualified healthcare provider should
be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.
Policosanol is a natural mixture of alcohols derived from plant-based waxes
that has been shown to lower cholesterol. Policosanol has been used and
recommended to treat high cholesterol (hypercholesterolem
studies have analyzed the effects of policosanol on cholesterol levels and
have found benefits. At this time, the evidence supporting the efficacy of
this agent is compelling, although greater acceptance in the U.S. market may
await additional larger studies.
Psyllium, also known as ispaghula, comes from the husks of the seeds of
Plantago ovata. Psyllium is well studied as a lipid-lowering agent with
generally modest reductions seen in blood levels of total cholesterol and
low-density lipoprotein. Because only small reductions have been observed,
people with high cholesterol should discuss the use of more potent agents
with their healthcare providers. Effects have been observed in adults and
children, although long-term safety in children is not established.
Red yeast rice (RYR) is the product of yeast (Monascus purpureus) grown on
rice. Since the 1970s, human studies have reported that red yeast lowers
blood levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein/
triglyceride levels. Other products containing red yeast rice extract can
still be purchased. However, these products may not be standardized and
effects are unpredictable. For lowering cholesterol, there is better
evidence for using prescription drugs such as lovastatin.
Soy is a subtropical plant native to southeastern Asia. Numerous human
studies report that adding soy protein to the diet can moderately decrease
blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Small
reductions in triglycerides may also occur, while high-density lipoprotein
does not seem to be significantly altered. It is unknown if products
containing isolated soy isoflavones have the same effects as regular dietary
intake of soy protein.
For more information on these therapies, please visit Natural Standard's
Foods,
www.foodpharmacy.com <http://www.foodphar
From: www.naturalstandard.com <http://www.naturals
A new study supports consuming eggs in moderation after finding no evidence
that eggs increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels are collectively known as
cardiovascular diseases. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the
arteries), coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, arrhythmia
(irregular heartbeat), heart failure, high blood pressure, low blood
pressure, shock, endocarditis (bacterial infection of the heart), diseases
of the aorta and its branches, disorders of the peripheral vascular system
and congenital heart disease.
Reducing dietary cholesterol is important for preventing cardiovascular
disease (CVD). Researchers from Harvard Medical School explained that
although eggs are high in cholesterol, there is limited and inconsistent
evidence that egg consumption increases CVD risk and mortality.
The researchers examined the association between egg consumption and
cardiovascular disease in 21,327 participants from the Physicians' Health
Study I. Egg consumption was assessed with an abbreviated food
questionnaire.
After an average follow-up of 20 years, 1,550 new heart attacks, 1,342
incident strokes and 5,169 deaths occurred. The study found that egg
consumption was not associated with incident heart attack or stroke.
The study authors concluded that occasional egg consumption does not seem to
influence the risk of CVD in males. However, egg consumption was positively
correlated with mortality, especially in diabetic subjects.
Integrative therapies with strong scientific evidence in the treatment of
heart conditions include beta-glucan, beta-sitosterol, niacin, omega-3 fatty
acids, policosanol, psyllium, red yeast rice and soy. These can be ingested
through a healthy diet in addition to eggs.
Beta-glucan is a fiber that comes from the cell walls of algae, bacteria,
fungi, yeasts and plants. Numerous trials have examined the effects of oral
beta-glucan on cholesterol. Small reductions in total and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) have been reported. Little
to no significant changes have been noted to occur on triglyceride levels or
high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) levels.
Beta-sitosterol is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables,
soybeans, breads, peanuts and peanut products. It is also found in bourbon
and oils. Many human and animal studies have found that supplementation of
beta-sitosterol into the diet decreases total serum cholesterol as well as
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a well-accepted
treatment for high cholesterol. Multiple studies show that niacin (not
niacinamide) has significant benefits on levels of high-density cholesterol.
Niacin has been shown to produce better results than prescription drugs.
There are also benefits on levels of low-density cholesterol, although these
effects are less dramatic.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish
oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA). Multiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with
intake of omega-3 fatty acids. There is strong scientific evidence from
human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements (EPA
+ DHA) significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. Benefits appear to be
dose-dependent. Fish oil supplements also appear to cause small improvements
(increases) in high-density lipoprotein. However, increases (worsening) in
low-density lipoprotein levels are also observed. The American Heart
Association has published recommendations for EPA + DHA. Because of the risk
of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids, a qualified healthcare provider should
be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.
Policosanol is a natural mixture of alcohols derived from plant-based waxes
that has been shown to lower cholesterol. Policosanol has been used and
recommended to treat high cholesterol (hypercholesterolem
studies have analyzed the effects of policosanol on cholesterol levels and
have found benefits. At this time, the evidence supporting the efficacy of
this agent is compelling, although greater acceptance in the U.S. market may
await additional larger studies.
Psyllium, also known as ispaghula, comes from the husks of the seeds of
Plantago ovata. Psyllium is well studied as a lipid-lowering agent with
generally modest reductions seen in blood levels of total cholesterol and
low-density lipoprotein. Because only small reductions have been observed,
people with high cholesterol should discuss the use of more potent agents
with their healthcare providers. Effects have been observed in adults and
children, although long-term safety in children is not established.
Red yeast rice (RYR) is the product of yeast (Monascus purpureus) grown on
rice. Since the 1970s, human studies have reported that red yeast lowers
blood levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein/
triglyceride levels. Other products containing red yeast rice extract can
still be purchased. However, these products may not be standardized and
effects are unpredictable. For lowering cholesterol, there is better
evidence for using prescription drugs such as lovastatin.
Soy is a subtropical plant native to southeastern Asia. Numerous human
studies report that adding soy protein to the diet can moderately decrease
blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Small
reductions in triglycerides may also occur, while high-density lipoprotein
does not seem to be significantly altered. It is unknown if products
containing isolated soy isoflavones have the same effects as regular dietary
intake of soy protein.
For more information on these therapies, please visit Natural Standard's
Foods,
Tuesday, 27 May 2008
Merida Ruthin 50k Race
This sunday saw George finish inside the top 50 (again!) at the Ruthin MTB marathon event (www.mtb-marathon.co.uk). This was despite a finishing time of over an hour slower than last year! Every so often I manage to get my prep completely wrong and it serves as a reminder to me of how it should be done next time.
What went wrong?
Primarily I started cramping up after about 25k, this was a nastly surprise for me as this is the earliest that I have started to cramp up in any race. From this point onward I had to monitor how hard I was pushing, if I went above a certain output the cramps would come back, either in my hamstrings or my quads (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quadriceps and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamstrings for descriptions). It was a real task to stop myself getting carried away with competing against those around me, the weird thing was having to ride way within my normal capacity. Definitely a good experience, especially when I gave myself licence to stop at the last feed station at 37k and have loads of salty food and about a litre of water, I felt a lot better after that!
What will I do differently next time?
I will drink a whole lot more water before the event. After the event I realised that I had only drunk half a pint of water in the four hours previously. I would normally go through about 3 pints or 1.5l in this time. I also made the mistake of piling in some coffee and some food immediately before the start, and whilst this wouldnt normally be a problem, when you add that to insufficient liquid it will equal cramping!
One interesting thing I also noticed was that on the technical downhill sections I was much slower than normal. This is because I have only been out three times on my bike since November 07, why would this be? Something to do with my little girl being born and studying NLP every third weekend I suspect. I have a little quieter time planned over the next 8 weeks so that, by the time I go to Selkirk and do the 75k route, I will have been out on my bike a few more times and will get my prep right. Bring on the practise!
What went wrong?
Primarily I started cramping up after about 25k, this was a nastly surprise for me as this is the earliest that I have started to cramp up in any race. From this point onward I had to monitor how hard I was pushing, if I went above a certain output the cramps would come back, either in my hamstrings or my quads (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quadriceps and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamstrings for descriptions). It was a real task to stop myself getting carried away with competing against those around me, the weird thing was having to ride way within my normal capacity. Definitely a good experience, especially when I gave myself licence to stop at the last feed station at 37k and have loads of salty food and about a litre of water, I felt a lot better after that!
What will I do differently next time?
I will drink a whole lot more water before the event. After the event I realised that I had only drunk half a pint of water in the four hours previously. I would normally go through about 3 pints or 1.5l in this time. I also made the mistake of piling in some coffee and some food immediately before the start, and whilst this wouldnt normally be a problem, when you add that to insufficient liquid it will equal cramping!
One interesting thing I also noticed was that on the technical downhill sections I was much slower than normal. This is because I have only been out three times on my bike since November 07, why would this be? Something to do with my little girl being born and studying NLP every third weekend I suspect. I have a little quieter time planned over the next 8 weeks so that, by the time I go to Selkirk and do the 75k route, I will have been out on my bike a few more times and will get my prep right. Bring on the practise!
Friday, 23 May 2008
resources online?
We have just updated our website to include a resources page.
This contains a load of links to our partners in training, education, service provision and information. It also contains back issues of newsletters, leaflets for our services and posters.
Have a look at it by clicking www.lifeengineer.net/resources.html
Happy reading.
The LifeEngineering team
This contains a load of links to our partners in training, education, service provision and information. It also contains back issues of newsletters, leaflets for our services and posters.
Have a look at it by clicking www.lifeengineer.net/resources.html
Happy reading.
The LifeEngineering team
Sunday, 18 May 2008
George is now a certified NLP practitioner
Today I finished my NLP practitioner certificate with Coaching Leaders, trained by Andy Smith of www.practicaleq.com
I would just like to say a big thanks to all those who were on the course, to those who assisted and most of all to Andy. I have been really impressed all the way through the course with how well he has brought us into the world of NLP, trained and educated through the principles of NLP and been a genuine example of knowledge, integrity and elegance. Thanks Andy, you have been an inspiration to me and have kept my dream well and truly alive of wanting to teach and train others in NLP.
Now to start using this with loadsa clients. Bring it on.
I would just like to say a big thanks to all those who were on the course, to those who assisted and most of all to Andy. I have been really impressed all the way through the course with how well he has brought us into the world of NLP, trained and educated through the principles of NLP and been a genuine example of knowledge, integrity and elegance. Thanks Andy, you have been an inspiration to me and have kept my dream well and truly alive of wanting to teach and train others in NLP.
Now to start using this with loadsa clients. Bring it on.
Monday, 28 April 2008
STOP SMOKING
We have just updated the site to include our new 'stop smoking' service.
This is available as we have just completed our hypnosis training and are now able to offer the complete service needed for stopping smoking. Here is the link to the page http://www.lifeengineer.net/stopsmoking.html
happy reading
This is available as we have just completed our hypnosis training and are now able to offer the complete service needed for stopping smoking. Here is the link to the page http://www.lifeengineer.net/stopsmoking.html
happy reading
Thursday, 24 April 2008
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
dreamweaver indeed
Wow, what an evening of html fun.
Trying to figure out how to use dreamweaver to manage my site has been both fun and hugely frustrating. In equal portions! I have just spent the last 2 hours re-jigging file names, links and labels, getting massively mixed up in the process and feeling like I want to throw the computer against the wall! But we all know that doesnt solve anything....
But at least the site is getting closer to how we want it to look.
Who would care to make some suggestions about what they see and what they would like to see?
Trying to figure out how to use dreamweaver to manage my site has been both fun and hugely frustrating. In equal portions! I have just spent the last 2 hours re-jigging file names, links and labels, getting massively mixed up in the process and feeling like I want to throw the computer against the wall! But we all know that doesnt solve anything....
But at least the site is getting closer to how we want it to look.
Who would care to make some suggestions about what they see and what they would like to see?
Tuesday, 22 April 2008
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