Douglas Laboratories

Holiday Stress - Fight Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 15:46:00 +0000

By Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed

December is now known as the most stressful month of the year, and with good reason. A survey performed by Think Finance in 2012 reported that 45 percent of Americans would rather skip the holiday season than endure the financial and emotional stresses it brings. Increased financial pressures from holiday shopping and impending January bills, fewer hours of sleep and rest, end of year work deadlines, altered diets with increased sugars and alcohol that inflame the body, and the emotional stress of trying to stay up-beat about it all, makes December the hardest month – physically and psychologically – on our bodies.

Despite man’s many advances, our neurochemical and hormonal reactions to stress, (the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal or HPA-axis), have not changed greatly since our caveman days. Designed for acute stressors that resolve rapidly, our present-day, chronic, low-grade stress results in the continual release of Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus, the area in the forebrain primarily concerned with survival. This chronic secretion causes dysfunction in the HPA axis, desensitizing the hypothalamic and pituitary receptors and blocking their ability to shut off further production of our stress hormones, adrenaline, noradrenaline and particularly, cortisol.

Stress also contributes to one of the most dangerous and growing conditions in North America – obesity. Cortisol inhibits the release of Leptin, the hormone that reduces our appetite and food cravings after a meal, and “jump-starts” our metabolism. It also increases the release of insulin in response to carbohydrates such as holiday cookies, tripling the affect they have on fat storage, particularly in the abdominal region. Those holiday treats now have a more significant impact on our health and weight.

With such far-reaching impact on multiple areas of metabolism and hormonal balance, stress is rapidly being recognized as one of the most dangerous risk factors to our health. So, take charge of stress before it takes control of you.

Combat holiday stress with the four pillars of health: diet, nutritional supplements, exercise, and sleep.

Diet

Balancing blood sugars with a good source of protein at each meal inhibits excess release of insulin, and provides the essential building blocks for the production of hormones, antibodies, muscle and other vital tissues in the body. Reducing sugars and refined carbohydrates, while increasing dark green leafy vegetables throughout the day will help to decrease cravings for those holiday treats and support the liver in its natural detoxification pathways.

Supplementation

Lactium is a bioactive decapeptide isolated from milk that reduces the excess release of all three stress hormones, relaxing and calming the body. It re-establishes receptor sensitivity within the nervous system, allowing it to turn off that perpetually stimulated state of anxiety, with no sedating or groggy side effects.

L-Theanine, an extract from green tea, increases alpha wave activity in the brain (associated with calm thought and relaxation), and reduces beta wave activity (racing, scattered thoughts), within 40 minutes of consumption. This is a wonderful way to calm the mind during the day and relax the brain before sleep.

Exercise

Although time is limited during the holiday season, try to work in regular exercise, even if it is walking the stairs instead of the elevator at work. Rather than meeting a friend for a holiday beverage, go for a walk or skate. Combining socializing with exercise not only minimizes time constraints, but is a much healthier and happier way to wish someone well for the New Year. Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise every other day will also help decrease holiday weight gain.

Sleep

The value of regular adequate sleep cannot be overstated. Waking up at the same time is crucial to regulating many circadian rhythms in our body, not just sleep. So even if you get to bed late, get out of bed at the same relative hour. There are five stages of sleep, 1-4 and rapid eye movement (REM). Stage 4 is characterized by delta wave brain activity, and is the only time our body heals (makes a new hormone or antibody, repairs an injured muscle). All other stages of sleep are rest, not rejuvenation or healing. Cortisol blocks the brain from entering stage 4 sleep by inhibiting melatonin production. Supplementing with 3 mg of melatonin before bed not only ensures a better deeper sleep over the holidays, but will also help reduce cortisol production the next morning.

Giving back to yourself by protecting your health is the best holiday gift you could give yourself and your loved ones.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References:
Guesdon B, et al. A tryptic hydrolysate from bovine milk alphaS1-casein improves sleep in rats subjected to chronic mild stress. Peptides. 2006 Jun;27(6):1476-82.

Miclo L, et al. Characterization of alpha-casozepine, a tryptic peptide from bovine alpha(s1)-casein with benzodiazepine-like activity. FASEB J. 2001 Aug;15(10):1780-2.

Ito K, Nagato Y, Aoi N, Juneja LR, Kim K, Yamamoto T Sugimoto S. Effects of L-theanine on the release of alpha-brain waves in human volunteers. Nippon Nogeikagaku Kaishi, 72; (1998) 153-157.

Juneja LR, Chu DC, Okubo T, Yokogoshi H. L-Theanine – a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans. Trends in Food Science and Technology: 10; (1999) 199-204.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Immune Support and Beyond

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 18:49:00 +0000

Medicinal mushrooms are part of the extensive pharmacopeia of Traditional Asian Medicine, and have been used by herbalists world-wide for millennia. Their therapeutic legacy has played a vital role in natural medicine for thousands of years, and as substantiative research on these remarkable fungi expands, interest around them continues to thrive. Today, medicinal mushrooms remain a staple of integrative, holistic and complementary medicine.

There are more than 270 different species of medicinal mushrooms with documented benefits. These powerful fungi are rich sources of compounds such as lipids, proteoglycans, polysaccharides, alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. Medicinal mushrooms have been found to support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, metabolism, detoxification, and to neutralize free radicals. In addition, they can benefit digestion, skin health, cognitive function, vital energy, hormone balance and more.

Medicinal mushrooms work to detoxify, repair and strengthen cells, organs and tissues. Much in the same way that fungi naturally feed on decayed matter, medicinal mushrooms act as sponges for toxins. They cleanse and repair by drawing metabolic waste from cells and tissues and exchanging toxins with therapeutic compounds.

But perhaps the most impressive actions can be found in examining how medicinal mushrooms interact with the immune system. Mushrooms don’t just boost the immune system; they train and optimize immunity to function more intelligently and efficiently – a complex relationship that continues to impress researchers and clinicians.

Immune System Support

Mushroom cell walls contain a family of polysaccharides called beta-glucans, which demonstrate a powerful impact on immune response. For example, these molecules bind to macrophages and enhance their abilities to recognize pathogens. Beta-glucans also interact closely with lymphocytes, T-cells, natural killer (NK) cells and others immune components.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Together with additional beta-1,3 glucans, these mushrooms support immune function, elevate vital energy, and support the cellular system as a whole.

· Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi): Contains alkaloids, proteins, ergosterol and beta-glucans. This well-studied mushroom supports healthy cholesterol metabolism and circulation. In animal studies it has been shown to have powerful immune-modulating benefits.

· Grifola frondosa (Maitake): Has cellular health actions, enhances macrophage, NK cell and T cell activity. Also supports healthy blood sugar and liver health.

· Coriolus versicolor contains beta-1 and beta-4 glucans and is a powerful cellular and immune-supporting agent.

· Cordyceps sinensis increases phagocyte, macrophage and NK cell activity. These mushrooms also support healthy cholesterol levels.

· Polyporus umbellatus has demonstrated significant immune stimulating activity, confirmed in both in vitro and animal studies.

When combined in a synergistic formula, medicinal mushrooms offer an excellent way to support the body’s natural defenses.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References:

Spelman K, et al. Modulation of cytokine expression by traditional medicines: a review of herbal immunomodulators. Altern Med Rev. 2006 Jun;11(2):128-50. Review.

Batra P. Probing Lingzhi or Reishi medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (higher Basidiomycetes): a bitter mushroom with amazing health benefits. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(2):127-43. Review.

Zhao YY. Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and quality control of Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) Fries: a review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013 Aug 26;149(1):35-48.

Vetvicka V, Vetvickova J. Immune-enhancing effects of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) extracts. Ann Transl Med. 2014 Feb;2(2):14. doi: 10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2014.01.05.

Chu KK, Ho SS, Chow AH. Coriolus versicolor: a medicinal mushroom with promising immunotherapeutic values. J Clin Pharmacol. 2002 Sep;42(9):976-84. Review.

Eliza WL, Fai CK, Chung LP. Efficacy of Yun Zhi (Coriolus versicolor) on survival in patients: systematic review and meta-analysis. Recent Pat Inflamm Allergy Drug Discov. 2012 Jan;6(1):78-87. Review.

Lee HH, et al. Effect of Cordyceps militaris through immunomodulation in a DBA/2 mouse model. J Microbiol. 2014 Aug;52(8):696-701.

Essential Phytonutrients and Micronutrients for Immune Support

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:57:00 +0000

By Dr. Julie Chen, M.D.

There are so many herbs and vitamins out on the market for immune support, it’s a wonder how any of us know what to buy…and maybe when we get down to it, we really don’t know what to buy. Many of my patients in my integrative medicine clinic in San Jose, CA come into my clinic looking for natural options to help support their immune system throughout the winter due to seasonal changes. They come in with the common supplements on the market but they say it’s not working…why is that? Based on my own research and knowledge about the common over-the-counter supplements you can buy at the local pharmacy, these can be low in their dosing and sometimes the combination isn’t strong enough to gain solid immune support.

So, which ingredients seem to work as well or better for immune support compared to the basics found at local pharmacies? Based on studies, black elderberry and Andrographis seem to be great options that are a step up from your basic immune-supporting regimen. It seems that if you choose the right herbs or vitamins/minerals, sometimes even low dosages can confer the desired level of immune support. Obviously ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc are frequently used and based on research; they also seem to be viable options for immune support.

Black elderberry is traditionally used for immune support, and the research behind it is relatively substantial in terms of supplementation.^1-3 Black elderberry can help balance the production of cytokines that are necessary for successful immune function. The various elderberries are an interesting group as a whole but be wary of cyanide in unripe fruits or raw fruits and definitely stay away from dwarf elderberry since there is suggestion that it is unsafe for consumption and may be toxic.

Andrographis is also a solid option when looking for immune support because various studies suggest it may help shorten the duration of less than optimal immune function.^8,9,11 The aspects that are also interesting about this phytonutrient is that it may potentially support adrenal function which will further help support the immune system’s abilities to keep one healthy.

In regards to the oldies but goodies of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc, research suggests potential benefits in supporting the immune system by maturing macrophages, proper T-cell and NK cell activity, and protecting immune cells. One thing to keep in mind though is that you never want to overdose on any phytonutrients or micronutrients. Just because it’s more natural than a drug, doesn’t mean you should take large quantities of it. For example, if you take too much zinc alone, it may throw off the balance of other minerals such as copper. If you take too much vitamin C, one of the potential side effects is diarrhea. Even with vitamin D, you should check with your doctor to make sure your levels are just right…not too high or too low if you are taking vitamin D for health reasons.^4-7,10

The takeaway point is that Mother Nature created a lot of great things to help us fight our elements. So, while we try to catch up to her with our research findings to validate what she created, some early studies show promise in immune supporting functions of these herbs, vitamins and minerals.

References:

1. Kong F. Online Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics. 2009;5:32-43.

2. Roschek B, Fink RC, McMichael MD, et al. Phytochemistry. 2009;70:1255-61.

3. Zakay-Rones Z, Thom E, Wollan T, Wadstein J. J Int Med Res. 2004;32:132-40.

4. Audera C, Patulny RV, Sander BH, Douglas RM. Med J Aust. 2001;175(7):359-362.

5. Belongia EA, Berg R, Liu K. Am J Med. 2001;111(2):103-108.

6. Caruso TJ, Prober CG, Gwaltney JM. Clin Infect Dis. 2007;45(5):569-74.

7. Douglas RM, Chalker EB, Treacy B. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;(2):CD000980.

8. Roxas M, Jurenka J. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48.

9. Glatthaar-Saalmuller B, Sacher F, Esperester Antiviral Res. 2001;50(3):223-228.

10. Charan J, et al. J Pharmacol Pharmacother. 2012 Oct-Dec; 3(4): 300–303.

11. Melchior J, et al. Phytomedicine, Volume 7, Issue 5, October 2000, Pages 341–350

Polyphenol Research & Aging Benefits Part 3: Polyphenols in Cardio-Metabolic Health

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 18:51:00 +0000

Metabolic syndrome is defined as group or cluster of risk factors including elevated blood sugar, elevated blood glucose, high serum triglycerides, low HDL, hypertension, and abdominal obesity. One is generally considered to have metabolic syndrome if they have three or more of these risk factors. Nationally, metabolic syndrome affects nearly 25% of people considered overweight and 60% of individuals considered obese. These statistics, viewed in the context of the lifestyle issues that persist in North America (such as the typical high fat, high carbohydrate diet), don’t paint a particularly pretty picture. These dietary choices, coupled with today’s stress-filled lifestyle can increase the oxidative and inflammatory burden in the body which can in turn contribute to poor cardio-metabolic health. Fortunately, many of these risk factors can be modified by diet and lifestyle and science continues to uncover foods as well as supplements that may help support cardio-metabolic health. Something as simple as increasing the intake of fruit may help to modify a number of these risk factors. Fruit may be beneficial for a wide variety of reasons, and recent research has been focusing on compounds contained in fruit known as polyphenols.

Polyphenols are an extremely diverse group of compounds that can be found in many fruits and vegetables, and are especially concentrated in berries, olives, tea leaves and grapes. These compounds are responsible in part for the color of many fruits as well as the astringent quality of tea. Polyphenols are probably most well known for their antioxidant properties, in which they function to quench free radicals. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that many of their actions may involve non-antioxidant mechanisms. Resveratrol is a well-known polyphenol that has received significant coverage in the news and is found in berries, grapes and red wine. Recent research has demonstrated that consumption of 100 mg of resveratrol in combination with 75 mg of a muscadine grape extract rich in polyphenols was associated with significant beneficial changes in various parameters associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. In response to a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal, supplementation resulted in reductions in oxidative stress markers IL-1b, CD14 and TLR-4 gene expression as well as circulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoprotein binding protein (LBP) concentrations. Supplementation also induced Nrf-2 activity and the transcription of its target antioxidant genes.

In addition to resveratrol, emerging science supports beneficial roles for many fruits including strawberries, blueberries and cranberries in cardio-metabolic health. Interventional studies have demonstrated that these fruits can play a role in maintaining healthy total and LDL-cholesterol levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as lipid oxidation and glucose metabolism.

The Glucophenol Project

In collaboration with INAF (Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods) at the Université Laval, Atrium Innovations recently helped sponsor a double-blind, placebo-controlled, human clinical trial investigating the effect of a proprietary polyphenol-rich extract derived from strawberry and cranberry. This study examined the impact of the combination on blood glucose metabolism in insulin-resistant but otherwise healthy men and women. After 6 weeks of consuming approximately 300 mg of polyphenols from this unique strawberry and cranberry extract for 6 weeks, significant improvements in glucose disposal rate and insulin sensitivity were observed. These results are very encouraging, and help to highlight the role that fruit-derived polyphenols may play in helping to support glucose metabolism.

References:
Ghanim H, et al. A resveratrol and polyphenol preparation suppresses oxidative and inflammatory stress response to a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2011; 96: 1409-14.

Bahadoran Z et al. Dietary polyphenols as potential nutraceuticals in management of diabetes: a review. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2013;12(1):43.

Basu A, Lyons TJ. Strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries in the metabolic syndrome: clinical perspectives. J Agric Food Chem. 2012 Jun 13;60(23):5687-92. doi: 10.1021/jf203488k. Epub 2011 Nov 29. Review.

Hanhineva K, Törrönen R, Bondia-Pons I, Pekkinen J, Kolehmainen M, Mykkänen H,Poutanen K. Impact of dietary polyphenols on carbohydrate metabolism. Int J Mol Sci. 2010 Mar 31;11(4):1365-402.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Polyphenol Research & Aging Benefits: Part 2 Polyphenol-Rich Fruits in Neurocognitive Health

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Mon, 25 Aug 2014 20:24:00 +0000

Small fruits are a rich source of bioactive substances, including polyphenols. Numerous health benefits of fruits and vegetables have been largely attributable to this family of compounds, the polyphenols. These polyphenols include flavonoids (anthocyanins, catechins, flavonols, flavanones, and isoflavones), stilbenes, and tannins such as proanthocyanidins. The nation would save approximately $17 billion in health care costs if Americans consumed just one additional serving of fruits or vegetables each day according to the 2013 Union of Concerned Scientists report. Understanding the health benefits of specific polyphenol compounds is an emerging area of intense research, including the focus of research at Atrium Innovations.

Cognitive decline is observed with aging and may be related to increased susceptibility to oxidative stress and inflammation. Previous studies have suggested that the dietary intake of polyphenols found in berries could help alleviate some age-related memory deficits. Specifically, blueberry, strawberry, blackberry, grape and plum juices or extracts have all been successfully tested in various animal models of cognitive function. Among these fruits, blueberries have been identified for their particular benefits in slowing age-associated memory and motor decline through potential mechanisms of reducing oxidative stress and/or altering neuronal signaling.

Atrium, as part of its extensive Applied Clinical Research Program, is involved in the Neurophenols Consortium, an international research collaboration that includes the University of Bordeaux in France, Laval University in Canada, and other partners. Their preclinical results support a role for wild blueberry and grape extracts in improving memory and learning functions in aged rats using the Morris Water Maze test. Furthermore, a 200 subject, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre clinical trial is underway to assess the effect of the polyphenol-rich food supplement on episodic memory in healthy aging adults. Healthy subjects aged 60-70 years consuming 300 mg of Neurophenol™ or placebo daily for 6 months are being assessed to evaluate any changes in cognition and memory using an extensive battery of established cognitive tests, including verbal recognition, recall, mini-mental state questionnaire, and quality of life. The study results will be available in 2015.

References:

Spencer JP. The impact of fruit flavonoids on memory and cognition. Br J Nutr. 2010 Oct;104 Suppl 3:S40-7.

Malin DH, et al. Short-term blueberry-enriched diet prevents and reverses object recognition memory loss in aging rats. Nutrition. 2011 Mar;27(3):338-42. Epub 2010 Dec 18.

Kelly C. Heim, Paul Angers, Sebastien Le´onhart, and Barry W. Ritz. Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroactive Properties of Selected Fruit Extracts. J Med Food 15 (9) 2012, 1–4

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Polyphenol Research & Aging Benefits: Part 1 Curcumin's Brain-Body Effect

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 18:38:00 +0000

Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of the popular South Asian spice turmeric. The curcuminoids are natural phenols that are responsible for the yellow color of turmeric. Curcumin is the most active constituent of turmeric; its antioxidant activity is generally considered to contribute to its diverse therapeutic effects for a healthy brain and target organs.

It is no surprise that the brain-body paradigm for healthy aging is now evolving as the model for maintaining true health. Curcumin, once it is available to target tissues in its free form, is uniquely positioned to address brain-body health through activities in three primary categories:

Proper regulation of proteins and their aggregates
Reduction of oxidative and physiological stress signals
Modulation of inflammation and immune resistance caused by genetic predisposition, dietary and environmental stress, and physical exertion.

Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that is neuroprotective. It is a powerful binding agent of amyloid-beta protein and inhibits amyloid aggregation. Despite the widely held belief of curcumin’s poor systemic bioavailability, there is ample animal and clinical evidence for very effective neuroprotection using a specific form of curcumin in a variety of models.† Dr. Robert DiSilvestro, Ph.D. from The Ohio State University Department of Human Nutrition selected Longvida® Curcumin (400mg) for a landmark study on age-related biomarkers in healthy adults due to its low dose, fast action and high bioavailability. His study showed significant improvements in levels of several biomarkers key for healthy brain aging, including an 11% reduction in plasma amyloid-beta.

Curcumin is a key regulator of several steps in the oxidative stress and regulatory cascade that are highly correlated with amyloid-beta and cognitive function. Two of these markers include catalase and C-reactive protein (Kuo, Milton, Torres). In subjects taking Longvida® curcumin, a 72% increase in catalase (p<0.01) and an 11% trend for reduction in CRP was observed. Blood lipids, vascular inflammation and oxidative stress are also highly correlated with healthy brain aging. After 30 days, a significant 14% reduction in plasma triglycerides was observed (p<0.05), coinciding with a trend for decrease of plasma cholesterol. In addition, a significant 14% reduction in vascular marker sICAM-1 (p<0.05) and a 37% increase in endothelial nitric oxide (p<0.05) was observed.

Curcumin can be effective at supporting a diverse array of biomarkers key for healthy aging of the brain and body, if consumed in a form that is bioavailable and clinically shown to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Curcumin’s Bioavailability

The limited absorption and bioavailability of curcumin has led to the development of a patented Solid Lipid Curcumin Particle (SLCPTM) Technology invented by UCLA neuroscientists in collaboration with Verdure Sciences. When curcumin is consumed, it converts into metabolites such as curcumin glucuronide, which is often incorrectly marketed as curcumin. Longvida®’s SLCPTM Technology enables free curcumin (unmetabolized) to absorb into the blood at over 65 times greater levels than non-optimized curcumin (Gota et al. 2010). The patented SLCP Technology is based on a ratio of curcumin extracted from turmeric combined with a proprietary ratio of 3 lipids: high purity long-chain phospholipid, long-chain fatty acid, and fat-soluble antioxidant. It is believed that Longvida curcumin may transport through the lymphatic system instead of conjugating in the liver, therefore allowing non-conjugated, free curcumin to circulate in blood and reach target tissues. Longvida® curcumin has been shown to pass the blood brain barrier, with clinical efficacy demonstrated on a variety of cognitive and systemic health markers.†

References:

1. Baum et al. Letter in J Clin Psychopharm. 2008:28(1), 110-114.
2. Cuomo et al. J Nat Prod. 2011 Mar 17.
3. DiSilvestro et al. Nutrition Journal 2012, 11:79
4. Frautschy and Cole. Mol Neurobiol. 2010 Jun;41(2-3):392-409.
5. Gota et al. J Agric Food Chem. 2010 Feb 24;58(4):2095-9
6. Kuo et al. Lancet Neurol. 2005 Jun;4(6):371-80.
7. Lao et al. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2006;6:10.
8. Marczylo et al. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2007 Jul;60(2):171-7.
9. Milton et al. Biochem J. (1999) 344, 293-296
10. Torres et al. J Alzheimers Dis. 2011;26(1):59-68.

Longvida® is covered under Patent EP 1993365, additional patents pending. Longvida® is a registered trademark of Verdure Sciences, Inc.

†These statements have not been evaulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Weight Management Ingredients Part 5: 7-Keto DHEA

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Thu, 29 May 2014 15:18:00 +0000

7-Keto, which stands for 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone, is a natural non-steroidal molecule that is produced in the body from DHEA. As humans age, natural levels of 7-Keto begin to decline with a 40% drop from age 25 to 40. Research in animals shows that aging may have an effect on the body’s ability to maintain optimal thermogenesis (fat burning) activity. This is accomplished through the activation of three thermogenic enzymes: Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase, Malic Enzyme and Fatty Acyl CoA Oxidase. These enzymes promote the utilization of fat stores for energy and heat production. 7-Keto achieves this thermogenic effect without cardiovascular or central nervous system side effects, which are commonly seen with stimulant-associated thermogenic agents.

Additionally, the 7-Keto metabolite is chemically different from DHEA and cannot convert back into DHEA or other steroidal hormones in the body such as estrogen or testosterone as verified by clinical studies.

Since research indicates that 7-Keto may play important roles in activating thermogenic enzymes, it is used as a dietary supplement for supporting weight loss. Several clinical studies have been conducted in healthy overweight adults. In one double-blind, placebo-controlled study, subjects given 200 mg of 7-Keto reduced body weight and body fat percent more significantly compared with placebo (average 6.3 pounds vs. 2.1 pounds) while maintaining a 20 kcal/kg/d diet and cross-training exercise regimen. No significant changes in blood glucose, hormonal levels, liver enzymes or renal function were experienced and no adverse side effects were reported. Additionally, T3 (triiodothyronine) increased in the 7-Keto group, implying an increase in RMR (resting metabolic rate) without negative feedback on the thyroid hormone system.

A 2007 double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial showed that 7-Keto in conjunction with a calorie-restricted diet increased RMR above basal levels, and concluded supplementation with 7-Keto may benefit obese individuals with impaired energy expenditure. 7-Keto was generally well tolerated and no serious adverse events were reported.

References:
Lardy H, Kneer N, Wei Y, Partridge B, Marwah P. Ergosteroids. II: Biologically active metabolites and synthetic derivatives of dehydroepiandrosterone. Steroids. 1998 Mar;63(3):158-65.

Colker CM, Torina GC, Swain MA, Kalman DS. Double-blind study evaluating the effects of exercise plus 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone on body composition and the endocrine system in overweight adults. J Exercise Physiology Online 1999;2(4).

Kalman DS, Colker CM, Swain MA, Torina GC, Shi Q. A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone in healthy overweight adults. Curr Thera. 2000;61:435–42.

Zenk JL, Frestedt JL, Kuskowski MA. HUM5007, a novel combination of thermogenic compounds, and 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone: each increases the resting metabolic rate of overweight adults. J Nutr Biochem. 2007 Sep;18(9):629-34

Davidson M, Marwah A, Sawchuk RJ, et al. Safety and pharmacokinetic study with escalating doses of 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone in healthy male volunteers. Clin Invest Med 2000;23:300-10.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Weight Management Ingredients Part 4: Relora®: Magnolia and Phellodendron

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Mon, 12 May 2014 14:46:00 +0000

Americans’ stress levels are high and stress has a direct effect on cortisol levels, sleep, mood, and food intake. Research has found a link between lack of sleep and obesity. Sleeplessness was shown to activate an area in the hypothalamus that is involved in appetite regulation. As the amount of sleep decreases, leptin production in the brain lowers, causing food cravings during the day.

A dietary supplement called Relora® consisting of proprietary extracts of two traditional

Chinese herbs, magnolia (Magnolia officinalis) and phellodendron (Phellodendron amurense), showed good cortisol-lowering activity in vitro and was developed specifically for stress and cortisol management, sweet cravings, disrupted weight management, and poor quality of sleep.

In a human study with healthy, overweight (BMI 25 to 34.9), premenopausal female adults, between the ages of 20 and 50 years, who typically eat more in response to stressful situations, took Relora® supplementation daily for 6 weeks. There was a significant weight gain during the study for the placebo group (P <.01), but no significant weight gain for the Relora® group (P < .89). Participants in both the treatment and placebo groups had improved scores on a number of psychological measures during the study. Bedtime cortisol levels decreased in the treatment group and increased in the placebo group.

Relora® was found not to cause sedation, though 74% of the patients had more restful sleep. Additionally, no adverse side effects were reported during the trial. There was a correlation between perceived stress and weight change. These results are consistent with the previously published studies showing a correlation between elevated cortisol levels and stress-induced eating.

A second human trial studied the effects of Relora® on salivary cortisol and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. After 4 weeks of supplementation, salivary cortisol exposure was significantly (p<0.05) lower (−18%) in the Relora group compared to Placebo. Compared to Placebo, the Relora group had significantly better (p<0.05) mood state parameters, including lower indices of Overall Stress (−11%), Tension (−13%), Depression (−20%), Anger (−42%), Fatigue (−31%), and Confusion (−27%), and higher indices of Global Mood State (+11%) and Vigor (+18%).

Ongoing clinical data confirms the efficacy and safety of the Relora® magnolia /phellodendron formulation as a dietary supplement for supporting weight management in times of stress.

Relora® is a registered trademark of NPI, LLC

References:
Robert Garrison, RPh; Walter G. Chambliss, PhD. Effect of Magnolia and Phellodendron Extract on Weight Management. ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES, jan/feb 2006, VOL. 12, NO. 1

Talbott, et al. Effect of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense (Relora®) on cortisol and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2013, 10:37

Dallman MF, la Fleur SE, Pecoraro NC, et al. Minireview: glucocorticoids—food intake, abdominal obesity, and wealthy nations in 2004. Endocrinology. 2004;145:2633-2638.

Epel E, Lapidus R, McEwen B, Brownell K. Stress may add bite to appetite in women: a laboratory study of stress-induced cortisol and eating behavior. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2001;26:37-49.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Weight Management Ingredients Part 3: Lactium Casein Decapeptide

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 14:37:00 +0000

By Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed

Stress contributes to one of the most dangerous and growing conditions in North America, obesity. In a society where 65% are overweight and 31% are clinically obese, chronic stimulation of the HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) axis can be viewed as one of the most dangerous risk factors for our health. Cortisol inhibits the release of Leptin, the hormone that reduces our appetite after a meal, and “jump starts” our metabolism, resulting in a reduction of our metabolic rate from approximately 98% to 35%. It also triples the release of insulin in response to specific carbohydrates such as grains, fruits, and sugars, directing the body to essentially treat one apple like 3 apples, or one piece of bread like 3 slices. The majority of this fat storage from food will be deposited around the abdominal region where white fat cells have three times the number of cortisol receptors on their surface. To make matters worse, CRH (Corticotropin-releasing hormone) and cortisol block the production and binding of both serotonin and dopamine. This combination of imbalanced hormones destabilizes mood and stimulates food cravings.

Therefore, it is crucial to rebalance our HPA-axis in response to stress. Simply “mopping-up” excess cortisol is not sufficient as it fails to address the numerous other areas of dysregulation within the pathway from the hypothalamus to end-organ receptor.

There is one natural supplement that is effective at all levels of the HPA axis to not only decrease glucocorticoid secretion, but to rebalance the pathway. This supplement, Lactium®, is a bioactive casein decapeptide, (a polypeptide 10 chain amino acid alpha-1 sequence). It works at three areas of the HPA-axis:

Lactium is the only casein peptide to bind specifically to the BZD site of the GABA-A receptor. Unlike benzodiazepines, the alpha-1 peptide does not bind to the PBR site of the GABA-A receptor, the site responsible for the sedating side effects of benzodiazepines. It has been clinically shown in vivo that the alpha-1 casein peptide is about 10 times more active than diazepam at the BZD site without causing drowsiness.
Lactium increases the sensitivity of the hypothalamus to cortisol, re-establishing normal receptor sensitivity feedback within the HPA-axis. It also reduces the amount of CRH produced in response to stress.
Lactium decreases the amount of cortisol released by the adrenal glands during acute and chronic stress.

When negative feedback within the HPA-axis is disrupted, chronic hormonal secretion becomes “normal” for that individual. In this state, they either fail to recognize that they are stressed, or they experience an exaggerated emotional and physical response to every stressor, such as intolerance to noise or light, or a feeling of being overwhelmed when asked to perform a simple task. This often leaves them feeling helpless or defeated, one of the most unhealthy and powerless places to be. Although the external and internal stress load is certainly not decreasing in our society, we can regain control over our response to it, protecting ourselves from stress-induced weight gain, food cravings, and fat storage.

References:

Guesdon B, et al. A tryptic hydrolysate from bovine milk alphaS1-casein improves sleep in rats subjected to chronic mild stress. Peptides. 2006 Jun;27(6):1476-82.

Miclo L, et al. Characterization of alpha-casozepine, a tryptic peptide from bovine alpha(s1)-casein with benzodiazepine-like activity. FASEB J. 2001 Aug;15(10):1780-2.

Papadopoulos, V. Peripheral-type benzodiazepine/diazepam binding inhibitor receptor: biological role in steroidogenic cell function.. Endocr. Rev. 14, 222–240 1993

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Weight Management Ingredients Part 2: Meratrim®: Dual Plant Extract

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 19:05:00 +0000

Meratrim® is a proprietary dual-plant extract blend that has gained recent popular media attention for its significant outcomes in weight management. The Meratrim® blend is derived from two plants, Sphaeranthus indicus and Garcinia mangostana, traditionally used in Southeast Asian culture. Meratrim has been shown in two independent, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies to significantly reduce body weight, BMI, and waist/hip circumference within 8 weeks when used in combination with a 2000 calorie daily diet and moderate exercise plan. Toxicological studies on Meratrim have demonstrated a wide margin of safety.

Mechanism of Action
Meratrim® appears to achieve results by modulating the accumulation of fat while simultaneously increasing fat burning. In vitro studies demonstrate that Meratrim modulates the expression of biomarkers that control adipogenesis and lipogenesis as follows:

Reduces the expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR) hormone receptor. PPAR induces adipocyte-specific genes involved in the formation and growth of fat cells.
Reduces the expression of adipocyte differentiation related protein (ADRP). This is a signaling protein which facilitates the uptake of fatty acids to form lipid droplets and adipocyte differentiation.
Reduces the expression of cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36)—a trans-membrane receptor that facilitates fatty acid uptake by adipocytes.
Reduces perilipin expression. Perilipins are adipocyte proteins that are localized at the surface of the lipid droplet and inhibit fat break down by restricting access of lipase to the lipid droplet.

Adiponectin is a protein hormone produced and secreted exclusively by adipocytes (fat cells) that regulates the metabolism of lipids and glucose. Clinical results show that Meratrim significantly increased adiponectin levels by 25-fold compared to placebo at 8 weeks, suggesting an enhanced fat metabolism. It also showed an improved serum lipid profile and blood glucose management.

Weight Management Results

Results were seen within 2 weeks, with the greatest results at week 8. The study published in Obesity Journal 2013 showed a significant reduction in body weight by 11.5 pounds (3.5-fold better than placebo), after eight weeks of Meratrim® at a dose of 400 mg 30 minutes before a meal twice daily. Additionally, participants reduced waist circumference by 4.7 inches and hip circumference by 2.5 inches.

Meratrim® brand is a proprietary blend of two natural plant extracts. Meratrim® is exclusively distributed by InterHealth N.I

References:
Stern JS, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of a novel herbal formulation for weight management. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2013 May;21(5):921-7.

Sengupta K, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of a novel herbal formulation for weight management in obese subjects: a randomized double blind placebo controlled clinical study. Lipids Health Dis. 2012 Sep 20;11:122

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Weight Management Ingredients Part 1: Garcinia Cambogia

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 19:43:00 +0000

Hydroxycitric acid (HCA ) occurs predominantly in the fruit rind of Garcinia cambogia, a tree native to South and Southeast Asia. Human and animal studies have examined the potential of the active ingredient HCA as an inhibitor of lipogenesis and demonstrated that HCA curbs appetite, reduces food intake and inhibits fat synthesis. HCA is a competitive inhibitor of ATP-citrate lyase, the enzyme responsible for catalyzing the 2 extra mitochondrial cleavage of citrate to oxaloacetate and acetyl-CoA, a building block of fatty acid synthesis. Inhibiting ATP-citrate lyase diverts carbohydrates away from fat synthesis and towards the synthesis of stored energy in the form of glycogen. Increased glycogen levels are believed to send a signal to the brain that the body is full, resulting in reduced appetite and food intake. Researchers showed that oral administration of HCA in rats significantly depressed in vivo lipogenic rates in a dose-dependent manner in the liver, adipose tissue and small intestine.

Several human clinical studies have been performed with HCA from Garcinia cambogia in addition to the consistent results in animal studies.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies conducted by researchers at Georgetown University showed that 1,500 mg of Garcinia cambogia taken three times a day reduced weight 3-times greater than diet and exercise alone and increased fat burning, supported healthy cholesterol levels and decreased body mass index. The 90-patient eight-week study showed that HCA significantly increased serotonin levels, a mechanism of appetite control and eating behavior. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study, HCA reduced appetite and decreased caloric intake. The two-week 24-patient study showed that 500 mg of Garcinia cambogia taken three times a day significantly decreased 24-hour energy intake by 25% and snacking by 40%.

In two of the most comprehensive clinical studies ever conducted on Garcinia cambogia, researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center found that HCA not only resulted in significant weight loss, but increased fat burning, and decreased Body Mass Index (BMI), an indicator of healthy body weight. The studies also revealed some surprising new results: optimal doses of Garcinia cambogia with HCA significantly increased levels of serum serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep and appetite control, which may also address many of the emotional issues overweight people face, including binge-eating and depression.

Researchers at Creighton University School of Pharmacy have shown that HCA from Garcinia cambogia increases the availability of serotonin from rat brain cortex. Since serotonin has been implicated in the regulation of eating behavior and body weight regulation, it is reasonable to suggest that a mechanism of appetite suppression induced by HCA could be mediated by this neurotransmitter. Indeed, stimulants of this monoamine reduced food intake and weight gain, and increased energy expenditure in both experimental animals and humans.

Researchers at the University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, examined the effect of Garcinia cambogia on the release of neuropeptide Y, a nervous system transmitter shown to stimulate food intake. In this experiment tissue samples from the hypothalamus and cortex of rat brains were pre-treated with varying amounts of HCA, then chemically provoked to release neuropeptide Y. HCA significantly reduced neuropeptide Y levels in the hypothalamus, an area of the brain involved in controlling hunger. The results suggest that HCA may act to reduce food intake, in part, by reducing neuropeptide Y levels.

Based on the experience through these clinical studies, as well as prior animal trials, it is now known that Garcinia cambogia potency, bioavailability and dosage are essential requirements for optimal and consistent results.

Douglas Laboratories utilizes the brand Super CitriMax® to supply 60% HCA content from Garcinia cambogia that was used in the clinical studies. Super CitriMax is a patented form of HCA bound to both calcium and potassium. The unique double-salt configuration of Super CitriMax makes HCA highly soluble, bioavailable and efficacious compared to generic brands of HCA. Furthermore, Super CitriMax is backed by extensive published peer-reviewed research supporting its safety & efficacy.

Super CitriMax® has been shown to:

Reduce body weight and BMI three-times greater than diet and exercise alone†
Increase fat burning†
Control appetite†
Reduce caloric intake by 25%†
Promote healthy serotonin levels†

References:

Sullivan AC, Triscari J, Hamilton JG, Miller ON, Effect of (-)-Hydroxycitrate upon the Accumulation of Lipid in the Rat. II. Appetite, Lipids, 9:129-134, 1974.
Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Rao CVS, Satyanarayana S, Dey DK, Efficacy of a Novel, Natural Extract of (–)-Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA-SX) and a Combination of HCA-SX, Niacin-Bound Chromium and Gymnema sylvestre Extract in Weight Management in Human Volunteers: A Pilot Study, Nutrition Research, 24:45-58, 2004.
Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Rao CVS, Dey DK and Satyanarayana S, Effects of a Natural Extract of (–)-Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA-SX) and a Combination of HCA-SX plus Niacin-Bound Chromium and Gymnema sylvestre Extract on Weight Loss, Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 6:171-180, 2004.
Preuss HG, Garis RI, Bramble JD, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Rao CVS and Satyanarayana S, Efficacy of a Novel Calcium/Potassium Salt of (–)-Hydroxycitric Acid in Weight Control, International Journal of Clinical Pharmacological Research, XXV(3):133-144, 2005.
Westerterp-Pantenga MS, Kovacs EMR, The effect of (-)-hydroxycitrate on energy intake and satiety in overweight humans, International Journal of Obesity, 26:870-872, 2002.
M Asghar, R Zeyssig, E Monjok, G Kouamou, S E Ohia, MF Lokhandwala and D Bagchi, Effect of a Novel Hydroxycitric Acid Extract (HCA-SX) on Oxidative Stress, Insulin Resistance and Brain Serotonin Level in Obese Zucker Rats—Annual Meeting of the Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology, Vol.20, No. 5, Abs. 655.4, Pg. 235, April 2006.
Monjok EM, Kulharni K, Mgbere O, Kouamou G, Ohia SE, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Regulation of Rat Brain Neuropeptide and Concentration by Hydroxycitric Acid, In Vitro, Experimental Biology Meeting, Vol.19, No. 4: abs 310.8, April 2005.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Hormone Health Series: Part 4 of 4

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 14:24:00 +0000

The Heart of a Woman & Herbs that Help

The heart of a woman is at increased risk as a result of decreasing estrogen levels. The following herbs can effectively support normal symptoms that occur with decreased estrogen levels and decreased estrogen function: Pueraria root, Red Clover, Bacopa Gotu Kola, Hops, Dong Quai root, Schizandra fruit, Sage leaf, and Black Cohosh. And while the combination is valued for its ability to support cognitive function and healthy sleep, as well as minimize hot flashes and vaginal dryness, this article focuses on how these herbs can support optimal heart health.

The ability of many of these herbs to minimize hot flashes is very important because hot flashes are often accompanied by increased heart rate and decreased vagal tone, which both put more stress on the heart. Collectively, these herbs support optimal, unobstructed blood flow to major arteries that supply the heart and other tissues. They also support healthy blood vessels and optimal function of the microcirculation; the very small arteries and veins that are directly adjacent to cells. The combination of herbs can decrease formation of oxidized LDL. Oxidized LDL disrupts the growth and survival of human coronary artery endothelial cells.

These herbs support heart health through various mechanisms of action, which include increasing the function of the mitochondria (the energy source of heart cells), increasing antioxidant activity in myocardial (heart muscle) tissue, improving utilization of glucose in cardiac tissue and increasing release of nitric oxide from the endothelium (cells that line the blood vessels). They can also maintain healthy cholesterol function, lower heart cell fibrosis (scarring), and decrease apoptosis (cell death).

Most of these herbs have multiple properties that support optimal heart health. A few of the many properties of herbs that can protect the heart of a woman are briefly listed here.

Pueraria lobata and Pueraria montana are soy-free sources of important isoflavones, that support cardiovascular health through antioxidant properties, promoting proper mitochondrial function, by increasing blood flow and increasing vasodilation of blood vessels, and by promoting proper cholesterol metabolism.

Trifolium pretense (Red clover) is a non-soy source of isoflavones including genistein as well as biochanin A, daidzein, formononetin. It supports heart health by maintaining optimal blood flow to major arteries that supply the heart and other tissues, and maintaining optimal cholesterol metabolism.

Bacopa monnieri is widely used as a brain tonic, to support memory. It increases the levels and function of endogenous antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). This action is protective to the heart as well as the brain. It also supports healthy nitric oxide levels, which help maintain blood flow.

Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) is another herb used to improve memory and cognitive function. It also increases the endogenous antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Centella asiatica is able to protect the very small arteries and veins that are directly adjacent to cells.

Humulus lupulus (Hops) primarily acts on the circulatory system by supporting healthy nitric oxide levels, which help maintain blood flow. It also has significant antioxidant properties that support heart health.

Angelica sinensis (Dong quai) supports heart health due to antioxidant properties, and the ability to support optimal healing and recovery of tissues that have been injured by decreased blood flow.

Schizandra chinensis provides antioxidant protection of heart and other tissues, and is able to support optimal healing and recovery of tissues that have been injured by decreased blood flow.

Salvia officinalis (Sage leaf) will minimize hot flash frequency and intensity, which is important because hot flashes cause increased heart rate due to decreased vagal tone. It also increases antioxidant enzymes in the heart as well as other tissues, and promotes healthy cholesterol metabolism.

Cimicifuga racemosa (Black Cohosh) is a well tolerated non-hormonal alternative to hormone therapy and other symptoms of low estrogen function. It has antioxidant properties that help cells respond to stress, and is considered effective in supporting heart health.

Joseph J. Collins, RN, ND
CEO, Your Hormones, Inc.

The President and Co-founder of Your Hormones, Inc. He has been directly involved in advancing the practice of natural hormone health since 1993. His functional endocrinology clinical practice focuses on adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism, menopause, andropause, PMS/PMDD, PCOS and blood sugar disorders. He has extensive experience in the advanced use of adaptogens to support and improve hormone function.

Hormone Health Series: Part 3 of 4

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Thu, 20 Feb 2014 17:34:00 +0000

DIM’s Role in Hormone Balancin

DIM, or diindolylmethane, is known for the role it plays in stimulating natural detoxification enzymes and supporting normal estrogen metabolism. As a natural component metabolized from indole-3-carbinole and cruciferous vegetables, DIM has shown in studies to support the formation of 2-hydroxylation instead of 16-hydroxylation of certain estrogen metabolites. This favors the production of 2-hydroxysterone over the less desirable 16-hydroxyestrone. Other studies indicate that diindolylmethane may play important roles in inducing apoptosis and supporting the body’s normal angiogenic balance, especially in regards to healthy breast, cervical and prostate cells.

The use of hormone replacement therapy, especially in women during menopause and perimenopause is quite popular these days. Combing DIM with HRT may better promote estrogen metabolism and support healthy estrogen levels, since low estrogen can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. DIM in combination why phytoestrogens from plants can provide independent and similar actions to support women’s health. Phytoestrogens such as the isoflavone genistein mimic estrogen-like activity, unlike DIM, and positively influence bone mineral metabolism and protect blood proteins from oxidation.

DIM can also help to maintain a healthy balance between estrogen and free testosterone by reducing elevated levels of SHBG. Higher ratios of testosterone to estrogen have been linked to lower body fat mass and fat-burning metabolism, in addition to improved mood and libido.

About Dr. Shel

Known as “Dr. Shel”, she is the founder and medical director of the Dr. Shel Wellness & Medical Spa in Sugar Land, Texas. An honor graduate of Emory University School of Medicine, and a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist. Dr. Shel is a Douglas Laboratories Clinical Advisor.

Hormone Health Series: Part 2 of 4

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 16:48:00 +0000

Men’s Health – Make your Own Testosterone and Keep it Working

Your body is the best source of hormones. Sure, there are injections, creams and other forms of testosterone. But given a choice, wouldn’t you rather make your own testosterone? If your body could make you enough testosterone in the past, can it make it again? Can you actually increase the ability of your body to make testosterone? Yes. You can make your own testosterone. Equally as important, you can keep your testosterone working by controlling the negative factors that have caused the levels to decrease. You can also diminish interfering factors that prevent testosterone from working.

Herbs that have been shown to actually increase testosterone levels in human studies – not just animal studies - include Mucuna pruriens, Tribulus terrestris, Eurycoma longifolia, Panax ginseng and Withania somnifera. So, we should expect that taking one or more of these herbs would result in increased testosterone levels. Sounds simple: Take a few capsules and youthful strength, mental focus and sexual prowess are back to what they were at 20 years old. But hormones are a little more complex than that.

While testosterone is anabolic, and builds muscle, cortisol is catabolic and breaks down muscle. In both male and female athletes lower testosterone with a relatively higher cortisol results in an anabolic/catabolic hormone imbalance adversely affect sports activity, and increase the risk of recurrent muscle injury. Long term stress results in increased production of cortisol and decreased production of testosterone – hormone production shunts towards making cortisol and away from making testosterone.

A number of herbs that can increase testosterone or have documented anabolic actions also help the body adapt to stress and decrease the stress associated rise in cortisol. These plants are appropriately called “adaptogens”, and include the well known herb Panax ginseng. Ptychopetalum olacoides, Mucuna pruriens, Withania somnifera and Eleutherococcus senticosus can also decrease excessive cortisol associated with stress. Epimedium sagittatum actually has cortisol antagonist properties, which can counteract the negative consequences of excessive cortisol. By controlling excessive cortisol, you can support a healthy production of testosterone – and allow it to function optimally. Other plants classified as adaptogens such as Lepidium meyenii and Turnera diffusa enhance nitric oxide and can improve sexual desire and sexual function.

In men, testosterone is produced by Leydig cells in the testes. Theca cells in the ovaries of women produce testosterone. Theca cells and Leydig cells are stimulated to make testosterone by luteinizing hormone (LH), which is secreted by a healthy pituitary gland. Stress, and age, can decrease the vitality of the HPG axis, resulting in less LH, and subsequently, less testosterone in both genders. To support your own testosterone production you want to increase, and maintain, adequate LH levels. Withania somnifera, Panax ginseng and Mucuna pruriens each cause significant increases in luteinizing hormone (as well as testosterone) in both men and women.

To review the list of references and additional information on the unique combination of herbs please visit: http://www.testogain.com/testosterone_herbs/

Hormone Health Series: Part 1 of 4

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 15:42:00 +0000

Supporting Thyroid Health Naturally
By Ridha Arem, MD

For optimal body and mind benefits of thyroid hormone, it is important that the thyroid patient takes an adequate and well-balanced amount of the micronutrients that are crucial for thyroid hormone to work efficiently in the cells. Dr. Arem’s thyroid program addresses these three targets to achieve optimal thyroid wellness (thyroid gland, immune system, and thyroid hormone efficiency in the body).

If the patient does not have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or hypothyroidism, but has a family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune conditions, Dr. Arem often recommends following these healthy guidelines to help support overall thyroid health and function:

Minimize saturated fats and trans-fats in foods because research has shown that bad fats can disturb the immune system and could promote autoimmunity.†
Follow a healthy weight loss diet, preferably low-glycemic, high protein, and high fiber, to reduce leptin levels because high leptin could cause the immune system to attack the thyroid gland.
Pay attention to vitamin D deficiency because vitamin D levels can promote and exacerbate poor immune and thyroid function.
Supplement with omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) because these provide immune system benefits as well as other metabolic benefits.
Maintain adequate stress management and practice relaxation techniques.
Supplement with a well-balanced complete mix of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and other ingredients that help support the immune system.

These steps will support the immune system, which in turn will support the overall health of the thyroid and perhaps other parts of the body as well.

About Dr. Arem

Dr. Ridha Arem is the author of The Thyroid Solution, a comprehensive mind-body program and a guide for maintaining thyroid health. He is also the author of The Thyroid Solution Diet, a revolutionary program for effective long-term weight loss for anyone with or without thyroid disease. He has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed articles in the fields of thyroid disease, endocrinology, and metabolism. In addition to teaching medical students and physicians-in-training, Dr. Arem has lectured extensively locally, nationally and internationally on thyroid disorders. For additional information, please visit www.aremwellness.com.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 6: Milk Thistle

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:25:00 +0000

Milk thistle, a common herb native to the Mediterranean, has been widely used for liver health for over 2000 years. Fruits of the dried milk thistle flower are rich in silymarin, the bioflavonoid complex responsible for milk thistle’s powerful protective and regenerative activities in the liver.

Silymarin enhances hepatic function through three primary actions:

Protects liver cells by blocking hepatotoxic substances from crossing cell membranes in the liver. Silymarin appears effective in protecting the liver from deleterious effects of both acute and chronic toxin exposures, including that of alcohol, hepatotoxic medications, such as excessive acetaminophen, poisonous fungi, and environmental pollutants.
Serves as an antioxidant for liver defense. The liver generates potentially damaging, toxic free radicals and reactive oxygen species (e.g., peroxides) as a result of its normal metabolic and detoxifying functions. Without proper detoxification, these radicals can initiate a chain reaction of lipid peroxidation, causing damage to cell structure and interfering with normal cell functions. Fortunately, silymarin interrupts this course of free radical damage. Additionally, silymarin enhances levels of glutathione and superoxide dismutase, two primary antioxidants in the liver.
Stimulates cell regeneration of damaged liver cells. In the cell nucleus, silymarin activates ribosomal RNA via RNA polymerase 1, leading to increased production of ribosomes. By augmenting the production of ribosomes (the cell organelle responsible for protein synthesis), silymarin therefore stimulates protein synthesis in the damaged cell. This results in expedited cell regeneration, replacement and repair of damaged cells.

Milk thistle herbal extract standardized to 80% silymarin is recommended, at doses of 200-500 mg per day.

MILK THISTLE IS AVAILABLE IN DOUGLAS LABORATORIES FORMULAS:
LivDetox 7600-120X
Detoxification Pack
Metabolic Rejuvenation
Milk Thistle Max-V

REFERENCES:

Muriel, P et al. Silymarin protects against paracetamol-induced lipid peroxidation and liver damage. J Appl Toxicol 1992;12(6):439-442.

Flora, K et al. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and the treatment of liver disease. Am J Gastroenterol 1998;93(2):139-43.

Féher J, Lengyel G. Silymarin in the prevention and treatment of liver
diseases and primary liver cancer. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2012 Jan;13(1):210-7. Review.

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 5: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:59:00 +0000

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine: The Glutathione precursor for liver support†

N-acetyl-l- cysteine (NAC) is the N-acetyl derivative of the sulfur amino acid L-cysteine. NAC is a precursor of glutathione (GSH), which is a potent antioxidant. N-acetyl cysteine easily crosses the cell membrane where it is converted to cysteine and, subsequently, glutathione.

One of glutathione’s best-known roles is to defend the cells against damage from wastes and toxins. Since the hepatic cells are consistently stressed as they deflect poisons, the cells’ quantity of glutathione becomes even more important. Used as an emergency medicine tactic for acetaminophen toxicity, one of glutathione’s actions has been extensively well-regarded for protecting the liver from damaging toxins. Glutathione (GSH) levels decline naturally as people age and are exposed to excessive amounts of toxins. Insufficient glutathione levels reduce the liver’s ability to conjugate drugs, chemicals and other toxins, enhancing the probability of liver damage.

NAC is virtually non-toxic and well absorbed, which is why supplementation with NAC is recognized as a safe, effective method of increasing intracellular glutathione stores. Aside from providing cysteine as a glutathione precursor, NAC also appears to have antioxidant properties and is a valuable sulfur donor for various metabolic needs. Research also suggests that oral NAC supports the lungs and respiration and lowers mucus thickness.

N-ACETYL-L-CYSTEINE IS IN THE FOLLOWING DETOX FORMULAS
BY DOUGLAS LABORATORIES:
De-Mer-Tox: 80371-60X
Detoxification Pack: 65395-30X
Metabolic Cleanse (Vegetarian): 57468-1151X
Metabolic Rejuvenation: 65901-56X
Metabolic Cleanse: 57462-1151X
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine 750mg: 7430-90X
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine 500mg: 200062-90X

REFERENCES:
Woo, OF, Mueller, PD, Olson, KR, Anderson, IB, Kim, SY. Shorter duration of oral N-acetylcysteine therapy for acute acetaminophen overdose. Ann Emerg Med 2000;35:363-8.

Dobrzynska, I, Skrzydlewska, E, Kasacka, I, Figaszewski, Z. Protective effect of N-acetylcysteine on rat liver cell membrane during methanol intoxication. J Pharm Pharmacol 2000;52:547-52.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 4: MSM

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:03:00 +0000

MSM, short for Methylsulfonylmethane. is an organic form of dietary sulfur readily absorbed and utilized by our bodies for numerous functions. MSM is a naturally occurring compound found in green plants such as field horsetail; certain species of algae; fruits; vegetables; grains, and cow milk. Studies suggest that the level of MSM in the body decreases with aging. Sulfur is an extremely important component of glutathione, the amino acid integral in phase 1 and 2 liver detoxification pathways. Adequate levels of this sulfur-based amino acid are necessary for the liver to perform its detoxification role and neutralize and eliminate heavy metals and fat-soluble toxins from the body. (insert picture here p. 4 of Metabolic Rejuv brochure.)

A study was published in The Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (2008;22:445.8). DiSilvestro and a team of researchers from Ohio State University found mice given MSM for five weeks showed higher concentrations of liver glutathione compared to animals given a non-supplemented diet. Therefore, supplementation with MSM may promote improved liver detoxification.†

In addition to detoxification support, MSM also works to strengthen muscles and connective tissues, provides cellular energy through cellular respiration, and can supply methyl donors. It is also an essential ingredient in the body’s conversion of food into Mfuel. The MSM offered by Douglas Laboratories is a premium form of MSM that is GRAS-designated and supported by U.S. clinical published research. MSM undergoes a proprietary four stage distillation process to remove heavy metals and other contaminants.

MSM is found in Douglas Laboratories Formulas:
De-Mer-Tox™
Metabolic Rejuvenation™
Mercury Amalgam
MSM
MSM Powder

REFERENCES:
http://www.msmguide.com/

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 3: Pea Protein

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 29 May 2013 16:29:00 +0000

Function: Pea Protein supports a Detox Program

Pea protein is derived from yellow peas (Pisum sativum), a low allergenic source that contains no genetically modified plant tissue and is pesticide, lactose and gluten free. Pure pea protein isolate is a high biological value protein that provides the essential amino acids, including high dose branched chain amino acids that are necessary for the body. Amino acids, in particular glutamine, glycine, and cysteine, are important for phase 2 liver detoxification.

A diet protocol for detoxification typically excludes the use of allergens such as gluten, dairy, and soy to ensure the proper elimination of stress-causing chemicals in the gastrointestinal tract. Pea protein is well-tolerated due to its 98% digestion rate, which means that the nutrients are transmitted more rapidly through the bloodstream and utilized more quickly by the muscles and organs. Pea protein is a great alternative protein to whey or soy protein. Since a detox diet is usually restrictive, a pea protein supplemental beverage can offer patients a healthy snack option or meal replacement if additional nutrients are added to make a smoothie.

Peptides in pea protein can also help provide a feeling a fullness and satiety by delaying gastric emptying, which lowers ghrelin levels. Ghrelin is secreted by the stomach to indicate hunger. Research shows ghrelin levels decrease after a protein-rich meal.1 Pea protein may also help support healthy blood pressure levels, and when combined with soluble fiber, healthy cholesterol levels. 2,3

PEA PROTEIN is found in other Douglas Laboratories formulas:
Metabolic Cleanse™ 57468-1151X
Ultra Protein Plus Vanilla 57054-948X
Ultra Protein Plus Chocolate Almond 57053-948X

REFERENCES:
1 Am J Clin Nutr February 2006 vol. 83 no. 2 211-220.
2 J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Sep 28;59(18):9854-60

3 British J Nutr. 2013 Mar 5:1-8.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 2: Wasabia Japonica

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:46:00 +0000

Wasabi is a familiar green condiment in dishes that contain sushi. While many people are familiar with the condiment’s spicy taste, most “wasabi” that is served in restaurants is often not true Japanese wasabi, but instead, American horseradish mixed with starch and food coloring. Wasabia japonica (true wasabi) is much different from American wasabi and is generally not found outside of Japan. Wasabia, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, contains long chain ITCs (isothiocyanates). These long chain ITCs are unique to Wasabia and are not commonly found in other cruciferous vegetables.

The liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxification and functions in two phases. During Phase 1, enzymes are converting non-water soluble chemicals into water-soluble chemicals, but this produces oxidants and other harmful compounds. Phase 2 is responsible for neutralizing these toxic chemicals, a process called conjugation. During this phase, the liver binds water soluble molecules to these toxic chemicals to allow for proper elimination through the bile or urine. ITCs and other cruciferous vegetables support Phase 2, the most important part of proper liver detoxification.

The isothiocyanate (ITC) spectrum of Wasabia japonica contains long chain methyl isothiocyanates (6-MITC) not commonly found in our diet. 6-MITCs have been shown to be 10-25 times more potent at inducing Phase 2 liver enzymes than sulforaphanes found in cruciferous.²


*GST and NQ01 are Phase II detoxification

The Wasabia used in the Douglas Laboratories’ formulas is grown under strict environmental controls in one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated growing facilities in New Zealand. Grown organically, this plant takes up to 18 months to mature. This results in a consistent and pure material, flash-frozen and freeze-dried to retain active compounds.

Learn more about the benefits of Wasabia japonica: http://ndnr.com/web-articles/pain-medicine/a-phytomedical-overview-wasabia-japonica/

WASABIA JAPONICA is found in Douglas Laboratories Formulas:

Detoxifcation Pack 65395-30X

Metabolic Rejuvenation 65901-56X

Wasabia Detox Plus 99245-60X

Dim Enhanced 201208-30X & 201208-60X

REFERENCES:
1. Morimitsu Y, Hayashi K, Nakagawa Y, Horio F, Uchida K, Osawa T. Antiplatelet and anticancer isothiocyanates in Japanese domestic horseradish, wasabi. Biofactors,. 2000;13(1-4):271-6.

2. Morimitsu Y, Nakagawa Y, Hayashi K, Fujii H, Kumagai T, Nakamura Y, Osawa T,

3. Horio F, Itoh K, Iida K, Yamamoto M, Uchida K. A sulforaphane analogue that potently activates the Nrf2-dependent detoxification pathway. J Biol Chem. 2002 Feb 1;277(5):3456-63.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Functional Detox Ingredients Part 1: Bentonite Clay

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:24:00 +0000

Bentonite Clay Powder

Bentonite powder is a type of clay that is great for colon cleansing and detoxification of toxins. It is composed of aged volcanic ash found in different parts of the world and has been used in various medical conditions since earliest recorded history. The largest and most popular deposit is found near Fort Benton, Wyoming in which its name was derived. The FDA rates bentonite as "generally regarded as safe" as a food additive.

Bentonite clay contains montmorillonite, a group of minerals with many beneficial qualities, as well as other trace minerals. The properties of particles in bentonite clay contain a negative charge that attract all types of toxins and pathogens, which include bacteria, toxins, metals, and pesticides, all of which have a positive charge. This action prevents toxic molecules from passing through the walls of the intestines and entering the bloodstream—and together with the clay, the toxins are eliminated harmlessly out of the body through the kidneys.

It is best to take bentonite clay on an empty stomach (at least one hour before a meal or before taking supplements and herbs) to keep it from interfering with the absorption of nutrients or medications. Consuming bentonite clay with psyllium powder while drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation. The reason bentonite clay may lead to constipation is because of its ability to absorb many times its weight in pathogens and toxins.

Bentonite Clay is found in Douglas Laboratories Formulas:
Ultra D-Tox™ 7594-100X
Detoxification Pack 65395-30X
Ultra Tox™ Powder 7712-1X
Metabolic Rejuvenation™ 65901-56X

To read more about Bentonite Clay:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/316862-prolonged-use-of-bentonite-detox/#ixzz2SXaoLg3W

http://www.naturalnews.com/032549_bentonite_clay_health_benefits.html#ixzz2SXWsLD5F

References:

Jaynes WF, Zartman RE. Aflatoxin toxicity reduction in feed by enhanced binding to surface-modified clay additives. Toxins (Basel). 2011 Jun;3(6):551-65.PubMed PMID: 22069725

Phillips TD, Lemke SL, Grant PG. Characterization of clay-based enterosorbents for the prevention of aflatoxicosis. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2002;504:157-71. Review. PubMed PMID: 11922083.
Robinson A, et al. Calcium montmorillonite clay reduces urinary biomarkers of fumonisin B₁ exposure in rats and humans. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess. 2012;29(5):809-18. Epub 2012 Feb 10. PubMed PMID: 22324939

Lipoic Acid and Acetyl-Carnitine (Juvenon) Supplements Decrease the Oxidative Mitochondrial Decay of Aging

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 15:57:00 +0000

Aging has been a major interest of mine for some time, in particular the role of mitochondrial decay as a major contributor to aging and age-related degenerative diseases. Mark Shigenaga and Tory Hagen, two senior postdoctoral fellows, and I wrote a review in 1994 (1) on why mitochondrial decay due to oxidant leakage from the electron transport chain was likely to be a major factor in aging. This idea was not original with us; Denham Harman and then Jaime Miquel had discussed the free radical theory of aging, but we feel we contributed some insights in the review. Kenny Beckman, another unusually creative postdoctoral fellow, and I also reviewed the free radical theory of aging (2). Writing these reviews got us all fired up to work on the subject, and Hagen figured out an experimental approach in rats that worked; we showed that there is a large amount of oxidative damage to the mitochondria and mitochondrial decay during aging (3).

Mitochondria from old rats compared with those from young rats generate increased amounts of mutagenic (4-6) oxidant by-products (7) and have decreased membrane potential, respiratory control ratio, cellular oxygen consumption, and cardiolipin (a key lipid found in mitochondria). Oxidative damage to DNA, RNA, proteins, and mitochondrial membrane lipids contributes to this decay (7-11) and leads to functional decline of mitochondria, cells, tissues, and eventually organs such as the brain, with an accompanying loss of cognition and ambulatory activity (7-11).

Decreased capacity to produce ATP and increased oxidant production are two properties of aging mitochondria supported by multiple lines of direct and indirect observations. First, the analysis of gene expression profiles in mice showed significant age-associated declines in them RNA levels of mitochondrially encoded subunits of complex I, III, IV, and V in old compared to young mice (12). Second, in addition to reduced gene expression, the levels of mutagenic (4, 6) aldehydes (13) and oxidants increase in aging tissues.

The importance of optimizing metabolic function to prevent mitochondrial decay is illustrated by feeding the mitochondrial metabolites acetyl carnitine (ALC) (14-16) and R-alpha lipoic acid (LA) (17) to old rats. Carnitine is used for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria; the main short-chain acyl-carnitine is ALC (18). In humans at rest, ALC accounts for roughly a quarter of total carnitine in plasma, muscle, and liver tissues (18). LA, a cyclic disulfide, is preferentially reduced in the mitochondria to a potent antioxidant, and mitochondrial coenzyme the dithiol form. LA, the disulfide form, and weak oxidant, is also an effective inducer of the transcription factor Nrf2, which in turn induces the glutathione synthesis enzymes (19-21). Nrf2 induces over 200 phase-2 antioxidant and thiol-protective enzymes (22, 23). ALC and LA, when added as a supplement, can act in some cases synergistically, to restore much of the lost mitochondrial function in old rats (7, 9-11).

One possible mechanism of mitochondrial decay is that with age, stiffer membranes due to lipid oxidation or increased oxidative damage to mitochondrial proteins cause structural deformation of key enzymes such as carnitine acyl transferase that lowers their affinity for the enzyme substrate (11). Feeding old rats the substrate ALC with LA for a few weeks decreases oxidative damage, allowing the synthesis of new carnitine acyl transferase with normal binding affinity (Km) (11). This partially restores mitochondrial function, decreases mutagenic oxidants, neuronal RNA oxidation, and mutagenic aldehydes, and increases rat ambulatory activity and cognition (7, 9-11). ALC and LA are not usually thought of as micronutrients, as they can be synthesized in the body, but they are illustrative of many normal metabolites that decline with age and may be beneficial as supplements in the elderly.

Park et al. (24) used DNA microarrays to identify transcriptional markers of aging that are differentially expressed in young versus old mice of multiple inbred strains. They then fed the mice various metabolites, mostly antioxidants, to see if they would oppose these transcriptional markers of aging, comparing effectiveness to caloric restriction, a known potent method for delaying aging. ALC was as effective as caloric restriction in the heart and LA was as effective in the cerebellum. These experiments suggest that ALC + LA is an effective caloric restriction mimetic and that tuning up metabolism may help in slowing down the aging process. The tissue specific effects of caloric restriction-mimetic agents suggest that a combinatory approach may be needed.

Bruce N. Ames

Nutrition and Metabolism Center, Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute

For information References contact webmaster@douglaslabs.com

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Adrenal Health & Multiple System Response to Stress

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:20:00 +0000

We understand that stress is the response of the body to any demand. Stress could be a noxious demand such as infection, toxins or trauma, someone with a noxious attitude. We know a stressor is that thing that causes the stress. A stressor could be a virus, yeast or bacteria, pesticides in the food, a collision from the driver behind you, or the driver’s opinion that texting while he drives is an unalienable right. So stress and stressors come in multiple forms. And as we might expect the consequences of stress can affect us in different ways, and present as a broad range of clinical conditions.

The first two homeostasis regulatory systems to respond to stress are the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis and sympatho-adrenal-system (SAS). In response to stress these systems associated with the adrenal gland create increased levels of steroid hormones such as cortisol and catecholamines such as epinephrine, respectively. But the stress response does not stop with HPA & SAS activation.

Other homeostasis regulatory systems that are governed by the hypothalamic and pituitary signaling are quick to follow adrenal systems. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis can change the amount of sex hormones created under stress. Stress can cause the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and the deiodinase enzymes to create different levels, and different ratios of thyroid hormones.

Beyond the hypothalamic-pituitary axes, but still influenced by those axes, are a number of other homeostasis regulatory systems such as the neuroendocrine-immune (NEI) system that responds to stress by altering the actions of the immune system. The glucose-insulin system (GIS) may actually become disturbed by acute and chronic stressors, which may result in hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic conditions. The brain monoaminergic system (BMS) is strongly affected by the rise in catecholamines from the SAS, often resulting in variant ratios of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters. The system that governs food intake and metabolic rate, the ghrelin-leptin-adiponectin system (GLAS), can be disrupted by acute or chronic stress.

The hypothalamic-pituitary axes and other homeostasis regulatory systems will in turn affect fluid and electrolyte balance by influencing the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The efficacy of the hepatic detoxification system (HDS) is disturbed because stress mediators (catecholamines, cortisol) are directly responsible for decreasing liver function. Cellular signaling systems (CSS) are disturbed, contributing to further stress as hormone receptors develop resistance. Even the most fundamental energy exchange system, the reduction-oxidation system (REDOX), is adversely affected, resulting in decreased mitochondrial function.

Realizing that the stress response involves many homeostasis regulatory systems, therapeutic interventions are most effective when they are designed to support, rebalance and modulate the twelve homeostasis regulatory systems that have just been presented. In my experience specific adaptogens can be used to restore homeostasis to all twelve homeostasis regulatory systems, and alleviate a broad range of clinical conditions.

Dr. Joseph J. Collins RN, ND

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Understanding the Gut and Its Relation to Food Allergies

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:22:00 +0000

The neonatal period is a critical time with regards to priming the gut for allergic disease. After birth the intestinal barriers and immunoregulatory networks are poorly developed and the post-natal period is a time for the normal commensal microbial flora to develop. The timing and dose of dietary antigens is imperative in this development. The mucosae are bombarded immediately after birth by a large variety of microorganisms as well as protein antigens from the environment. The mucosal surface is huge, 200 times the surface of the skin. There are two arms of the mucosal immune system to develop, IgA and IgM, both are antibodies to modulate or inhibit the colonization of microorganisms and decrease the ability of dangerous agents to get into the mucosal layers. The IgM is called the oral tolerance; this is induced via the gut against dietary antigens and helps to explain why there are persistent food allergies or sensitivities when this is triggered again and again.

The optimal mucosal barrier in the neonatal period depends on adequate supply of the breast milk particularly in relation to mucosal infections and also plays a significant role in protecting against hypersensitivity reactions to food. Antibodies to various dietary antigens, such as cow’s milk proteins and gluten are also present in breast milk. There are an ever-increasing number of children that have sensitivities to gluten and casein. By this research we can conclude that a breast fed infant will receive secretary antibodies directed against the microflora initially colonizing its mucosae and therefore be better protected both in the gut and upper airways.

If a child is suffering with poor intestinal microflora the introduction of probiotics will help build the microflora. It has been shown that children with atopic eczema can have a 50% reduction by the age of two years when receiving the probiotic strain lactobacillus.

IgA is the first line of defense in the GI mucosa and when reduced may have greater food allergies and eczema. IgA is a crucial antimicrobial component also found in breast milk and those that show less tend to have “leaky gut” which leads to food allergies in many cases. It takes up to 3 months after birth for the IgA to increase to adult values. It has been reported that those infants born to parents with low IgA show an increased prevalence of developing allergies, ear infections and eczema than those of the controls. For example, in studies they found cow milk allergies to be more prevalent among children whose mothers had low level IgA antibodies to bovine proteins.

As children grow and develop they are given several rounds of antibiotics to treat various infections, this has significant impact on the establishment of microbiota as well as gut integrity. The disturbing of balance in this developing mucosal immune system can have long-term detrimental effects if not followed properly.

If a child is past weaning, there is much that can be done to mediate this immune response. The details are vast but know that the imbalance within the system can be resolved. Parents must make changes to diet and add supplementation to help the immune system recover but this is a small thing to do to have them functioning optimally again.

Dr. Amber Brooks, C.A.C.C.P.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Women’s Health and Diindolylmethane (DIM)

noreply@blogger.com (Douglas Laboratories) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 15:52:00 +0000

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is an important ingredient that does not get enough use and attention, in my opinion. I recommend DIM to almost every one of my patients, the majority women, and have seen some amazing results like improved mood, increased weight loss, and a decrease in symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance such as PMS and menopause. †

DIM is known for the role it plays in stimulating natural detoxification enzymes and supporting normal estrogen metabolism. As a natural component derived from indole-3-carbinole and cruciferous vegetables, DIM has shown in studies to support the formation of 2-hydroxylation instead of 16-hydroxylation of certain estrogen metabolites. This favors the production of 2-hydroxysterone over the more harmful 16-hydroxyestrone. Other studies indicate that diindolylmethane may play important roles in inducing apoptosis and supporting the body’s normal angiogenic balance, especially in regards to healthy breast, cervical and prostate cells. †

Since DIM promotes the good estrogen metabolites, 2 hydroxy-estrogen, it activates fat utilization, called lipolysis. Research using DIM supplementation before exercise resulted in greater lipolysis in the hours following exercise, which enhanced weight loss in adults on a weight loss program. DIM performs many other functions in the body that can play a role in promoting weight loss. First, DIM specifically inhibits the production and release of inflammation-promoting cytokines from macrophages. Second, it promotes fat burning by increasing metabolism of poorly soluble substances and pro-inflammatory chemicals. Third, DIM has shown specific activity to modulate inflammatory receptors and mediators and thus decreases symptoms of metabolic syndrome including imbalanced blood glucose and body weight. †

I recommend combining microencapsulated DIM with green tea orally each day to decrease appetite, cravings & boost metabolism further. Microencapsulated DIM by BioResponse® contains pure DIM, microencapsulated in particles complexed with a vitamin E derivative and phospholipids to aid absorption from our intestinal tract. All published clinical studies have only used the patented microencapsulated formulation of DIM.

Shelena Lalji, MD

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.