Doctor's Corner

Nature has made our bodies in a miraculous way. Our heart pumps blood through our veins, arteries, and capillaries to every cell in our body. Imagine that your body is a country and the cells are its citizens. In order for the country to be strong, its citizens must have various jobs, proper tools to perform those jobs, proper nutrition to stay healthy, a transportation system, a communication system, a waste disposal system .

The term pH stands for Potential Hydrogen, which is the concentration of hydrogen ions in a substance or solution. The pH range is 0 to 14. Human blood pH is ideally 7.35. Higher number indicate alkalinity. Acidic conditions can cause muscles to constrict and inhibit the exchange of nutrients and waste products in muscle cells, causing fatigue, soreness, and pain. In fact, a pH imbalance affects all cellular activity in the body and can lead to a wide range of degenerative diseases and symptoms. Among other things, acidic blood blocks vitamin absorption, creates toxic buildup in clogged cells, slows organ function, prevents proper digestion, creates excess gas and bloating, causes unhealthy weight gain, and speeds the aging process. When pH is lower than 7.0, aging is accelerated because natural acid salts build up in the walls of your cells, causing them to stiffen and dry up. By the same token, aging is slowed when acid waste is removed from the body The pH of your blood is tightly regulated by a complex system of buffers that are continuously at work to maintain a range of 7.35 to 7.45, which is slightly more alkaline than pure water.

So what's up with all the hype about the need to alkalize your body? And what's to be made of the claim that being too acidic can cause osteoporosis, kidney stones, and a number of otherundesirable health challenges?

As usual, the answers to such questions about human health can be found by understanding basic principles of human physiology. So let's take a look at the fundamentals of pH and howyour body regulates the acid-alkaline balance of its fluids on a moment-to-moment basis. pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a liquid is. With respect to your health, the liquidinvolved are your body fluids, which can be categorized into the following two main groups:

1. Intracellular fluid, which is the fluid found in all of your cells. Intracellular fluid is often called cytosol, and makes up about two-thirds of the total amount of fluid in your body.

2. Extracellular fluid, which is the fluid found outside of your cells. Extracellular fluids are further classified as one of two types:

We want to be distinguished by the quality of products we produce, and its effectiveness experienced by our customers. Had it not been for our unique herbal formulation of our flag ship product I would not be able to write this message.

1. Plasma, which is fluid that makes up your blood.
2. Interstitial fluid, which occupies all of the spaces that surround your tissues.

Interstitial fluid includes the fluids found in your eyes, lymphatic system, joints, nervous system, and between the protective membranes that surround your cardiovascular, respiratory, and abdominal cavities.

Your blood (plasma) needs to maintain a pH of 7.35 to 7.45 for your cells to function properly. Why your cells require your blood to maintain a pH in this range to stay healthy is beyond the scope of this article, but the most important reason is that all of the proteins that work in your body have to maintain a specific geometric shape to function, and the three-dimensional shapes of the proteins in your body are affected by the tiniest changes in the pH of your body fluids. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A liquid that has a pH of 7 is considered to be neutral (pure water is generally considered to have a neutral pH). Fluids that have a pH below 7 - like lemon juice and coffee - are considered to be acidic. And fluids that have a pH above 7 - like human blood and milk of magnesia - are considered to be alkaline.

It's important to note that on the pH scale, each number represents a tenfold difference from adjacent numbers; in other words, a liquid that has a pH of 6 is ten times more acidic than a liquid that has a pH of 7, and a liquid with a pH of 5 is one hundred times more acidic than pure water. Most carbonated soft drinks (pop) have a pH of about 3, making them about ten thousand times more acidic than pure water. Please remember this the next time you think about drinking a can of pop.

When you ingest foods and liquids, the end products of digestion and assimilation of nutrients often results in an acid or alkaline-forming effect - the end products are sometimes called acid ash or alkaline ash. Also, as your cells produce energy on a continual basis, a number of different acids are formed and released into your body fluids. These acids - generated by your everyday metabolic activities - are unavoidable; as long as your body has to generate energy to survive, it wil produce a continuous supply of acids.

So there are two main forces at work on a daily basis that can disrupt the pH of your body fluids - these forces are the acid or alkaline-forming effects of foods and liquids that you ingest, and the acids that you generate through regular metabolic activities. Fortunately, your body ha three major mechanisms at work at all times to prevent these forces from shifting the pH of your blood outside of the 7.35 to 7.45 range.

These mechanisms are:

1. Carbonic Acid-Bicarbonate Buffer System
2. Protein Buffer System
3. Phosphate Buffer System

2. Exhalation of Carbon Dioxide

It's not in the scope of this discussion to debate the mechanisms listed above in detail. We only want to point out that these systems are in place to prevent dietary, metabolic, and other factors that matters to healthy living.

When people encourage you to "alkalize your blood," most of them mean that you should eat plenty of foods that have an alkaline-forming effect on your system. The reason for making this suggestion is that the vast majority of highly processed foods - like white flour products and white sugar - have an acid-forming effect on your system, and if you spend years eating a poor diet that is mainly acid-forming, you will overwork some of the buffering systems mentioned above to a point where you could create undesirable changes in your health. For example, your phosphate buffer system uses different phosphate ions in your body to neutralize strong acids and bases. About 85% of the phosphate ions that are used in your phosphate buffer system come from calcium phosphate salts, which are structural components of your bones and teeth. If your body fluids are regularly exposed to large quantities of acidforming foods and liquids, your body will draw upon its calcium phosphate reserves to supply your phosphate buffer system to neutralize the acid-forming effects of your diet. Over time, this

Drawing on your calcium phosphate reserves at a high rate can also increase the amount of calcium that is eliminated via your genito-urinary system, which is why a predominantly acidforming diet can increase your risk of developing calcium-rich kidney stones This is just one example of how your buffering systems can be overtaxed to a point where you experience negative health consequences. Since your buffering systems have to work all the time anyway to neutralize the acids that are formed from everyday metabolic activities, it's in your best interest to follow a diet that doesn't create unnecessary work for your buffering systems.

Acid and Alkaline-Forming Effects of Common Foods Generally speaking, most vegetables and fruits have an alkaline-forming effect on your body fluids. Most grains, animal foods, and highly processed foods have an acid-forming effect on your body fluids. Your health is best served by a good mix of nutrient-dense, alkaline and acid-forming foods; ideally, you want to eat more alkaline-forming foods than acid-forming foods to have the net acid and alkaline-forming effects of your diet match the slightly alkaline pH of your blood. The following lists indicate which common foods have an alkaline-forming effect on your body fluids, and which ones result in acid ash formation when they are digested and assimilated into your system.

Foods that have a Moderate to Strong Alkaline-Forming Effect Watermelon, Lemons, Cantaloupe, Celery, Limes, Mango, Honeydew, Papaya, Parsley Seaweed, Sweet, seedless grapes, Watercress, Asparagus, Kiwi, Pears, Pineapple, Raisins Vegetable juices, Apples, Apricots, Alfalfa sprouts, Avocados, Bananas, Garlic, Ginger, Peaches, Nectarines, Grapefruit, Oranges, Most herbs, Peas, Lettuce, Broccoli, Cauliflower. Foods that have a Moderate to Strong Acid-Forming Effect Alcohol, Soft drinks (pop),Tobacco, Coffee, White sugar, Refined Salt. Artificial sweeteners, Antibiotics (and most drugs), White flour products (including pasta), Seafood, White vinegar, Barley, Most boxed cereals, Cheese, Most beans, Flesh meats, Most types of bread

Please note that above lists of acid and alkaline-forming foods are not comprehensive, nor are they meant to be. If you're eating mainly grains, flour products, animal foods, and washing these foods down with coffee, soda, and milk, you will almost certainly improve your health by replacing some of your food and beverage choices with fresh vegetables and fruits. The primary purpose of this discussion is to offer information that explains why we believe that you don't need to take one or more nutritional supplements for the sole purpose of alkalizing your body. Your body is already designed to keep the pH of your body fluids in a tight, slightly alkaline range.

The ideal scenario is to make fresh vegetables and fruits the centerpieces of your diet, and to eat small amounts of any other nutrient-dense foods that your appetite calls for and that experience shows your body can tolerate.

Oxygen Cannot Cure Disease Unless It's Delivered to the Cells and Tissues of the Body.

The liver has a multitude of important and complex functions. Some of these functions are to:

• Manufacture (synthesize) proteins, including albumin (to help maintain th e volume of blood) and blood clotting factors.
• Synthesize, store, and process (metabolize) fats, including fatty acids (used for energy) and cholesterol
• Metabolize and store carbohydrates, which are used as the source for the sugar (glucose) in blood that red blood cells and the brain use
• Form and secrete bile that contains bile acids to aid in the intestinal absorption (taking in) of fats and the fat-soluble vitamins A, 0, E, and K.
• Eliminate, by metabolizing and/or secreting, the potentially harmful biochemical products produced by the body, such as bilirubin from the breakdown of old red blood cells and ammonia from the breakdown of proteins
• Detoxify, by metabolizing and/or secreting, drugs, alcohol, and environmental toxins.

The kidneys have the ability to monitor the amount of body fluid, the concentrations of electrolytes like soctium and potassium, and the acid-base balance of the body. They filter waste products of body metabolism, like urea from protein metabolism and uric acid from DNA breakdown. Two waste products in the blood can be measured: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr).

When blood flows to the kidney, sensors within the kidney decide how much water to excrete as urine, along with what concentration of electrolytes. For example, if a person is dehydrated from exercise or from an illness, the kidneys will hold onto as much water as possible and the urine becomes very concentrated,when adequate water is present in the body, the urine is much more dilute, and the urine becomes clear. This system is controlled by renin, a hormone produced in the kidney that is part of the fluid and blood pressure regulation systems of the body.

Kidneys are also the source of erythropoietin in the body, a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to make red blood cells. Special cells in the kidney monitor the oxygen concentration in blood. If oxygen levels fall, erythropoietin levels rise and the body starts to manufacture more red blood cells. After the kidneys filter blood, the urine is excreted through the ureter, a thin tube that connects it to the bladder. It is then stored in the bladder awaiting urination. Medications: Some medications are toxic to the kidney, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen. Others are antibiotics like aminoglycosides krantamicin (Garamycin), tobramvcin) lithium (Eskalith. Lithobid), iodine-containing methcations such as those injected for rathology dye studies.

Green tea has long been used by the Chinese as a medicine to treat headaches, body ache, poor digestion, and improve well-being and life expectancy. Green tea extract is bioflavonoid rich, and of its main uses is fighting free radicals in your body. Green tea extract contains high level of polyphones (a bioflavonoid), and it’s also a rich source of EGCG (an antioxidant), that’s over 200 times more potent than vitamin E in fighting free radicals and pro-oxidants.The EGCG in green tea extract protects against digestive and respiratory infections, blocks the actions of carcinogens which promotes cancer, is anti-bacterial, and also helps lower cholesterol levels.

Guarana Extract

Guarana is an herbal stimulant that contains a form of caffeine called guaranine, which is 2.5 times stronger than the caffeine found in coffee, tea and soft drinks. What makes guaranine unique from caffeine found in beverages is its slower release. That's because the guarana seed is fatty (even in powder form) and is not readily water-soluble. Therefore the body does not quickly absorb it. Since the guaranine is released slowly, the energy boost that is experienced from guarana is not like that of coffee with its sudden rush and quick drop-off. Rather, it continues to escalate over hours.

While caffeine from beverages provides a short-lived energy burst that overheats and excites the body, guaranine has a cooling action that revitalizes and relaxes. This is because guarana contains other components that modify the activity of this substance. The end result is more beneficial to the body than tea or coffee.

Caffeine accelerates the effectiveness of CLA, thus making CLA a more potent fat burner. Guarana has been shown to stimulate the migration of lipids so fat can be burned as energy. It is also an appetite suppressant.

Guarana aids in a temporary, natural increase in body temperature and metabolic thermogenesis through nutritional stimulation of the body's ß receptor pathway, which can induce the breakdown and release of stored body fat, thereby allowing stored fats to be turned into energy.

B Vitamins

8 water soluble vitamins that play an important role in cell metabolism

ACAI

• Powerful antioxidants
• Boosts energy levels
• Improves digestive function
• Improves mental clarity/focus
• Promotes sound sleep
• Provides all vital vitamins
• Contains several important minerals Is an extremely powerful free radical fighter
• Acai has very high levels of fibers
• Cleanses and Detoxifies the body of infectious toxins
• Strengthens your immune system
• Enhances sexual desire and performance
• Fights cancerous cells
• Slows down the aging process
• Promotes healthier and younger-looking skin
• Alleviates diabetes
• Normalizes and regulates cholesterol levels
• Helps maintain healthy heart function
• Minimizes inflammation Improves circulation
• Prevents artherosclerosis Enhances visual acuity

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba ) is one of the oldest living tree species and its leaves are among the most extensively studied botanicals in use today. Unlike many other medicinal herbs, ginkgo leaves are not frequently used in their crude state, but rather, in the form of a concentrated, standardized ginkgo biloba extract (GBE). In Europe and the United States, ginkgo supplements are among the best-selling herbal medications and it consistently ranks as a top medicine prescribed in France and Germany.

Ginkgo has been used in traditional medicine to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. Scientific studies throughout the years lend support to these traditional uses. Emerging evidence suggests that GBE may be particularly effective in treating ailments associated with decreased blood flow to the brain, particularly in elderly individuals. Laboratory studies have shown that GBE improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets.

Ginkgo leaves also contain two types of chemicals (flavonoids and terpenoids) believed to have potent antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals -- damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles. Free radicals are believed to contribute to a number of health problems including heart disease and cancer as well as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Antioxidants such as those found in ginkgo can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.

CoQ10

Boosts energy, enhances the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant. A growing body of research suggests that using coenzyme Q10 supplements alone or in combination with other drug therapies and nutritional supplements may help prevent or treat some of the following conditions:

Riboflavin

Riboflavin is a water-soluble vitamin, which is involved in vital metabolic processes in the body and is necessary for normal cell function, growth, and energy production. Small amounts of riboflavin are present in most animal and plant tissues.

Healthy individuals who eat a balanced diet rarely need riboflavin supplements. Especially good dietary sources of riboflavin are milk (and other dairy products), eggs, enriched cereals/grains, meats, liver, and green vegetables (such as asparagus or broccoli). Intake may be lower in vegetarians compared to non-vegetarians.

Riboflavin is often used as a tracer of medication compliance in the treatment of patients with alcohol dependence, mental disorders, and other conditions. Urinary riboflavin levels may be measured in order to determine the level of compliance.

Choline

Organic compound, classified as a water-soluble essential nutrient and usually grouped within the Vitamin B complex. This natural amine is found on the lipids that make up cell membranes and in the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Adequate intakes for this micronutrient of between 425 to 550 mg daily, for adults, have been established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences.

Niacin

Niacin is a B vitamin. It occurs naturally in plants and animals, and is also added to many foods as a vitamin supplement. It is present in many vitamin and nutritional supplements. Niacin is used to treat and prevent a lack of natural niacin in the body, and to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It is also used to lower the risk of heart attack in people with high cholesterol who have already had a heart attack. Niacin is sometimes used to treat coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis).

Noni Juice

• Low cholesterol
• Supports the immune system
• Increases energy and physical performance
• Delivers superior antioxidants
• Supports a healthy cardiovascular system

Thiamin

Thiamine is one of the B vitamins, a group of water-soluble vitamins that participate in many of the chemical reactions in the body. It helps the body cells convert carbohydrates into energy. It is also essential for the functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system.

FIBER

• Dietary fiber consists of non-digestible carbohydrates and lignin that are intrinsic and intact in plants. This includes plant non-starch polysaccharides (for example, cellulose, pectin, gums, hemicellulose, and fibers contained in oat and wheat bran), oligosaccharides, lignin, and some resistant starch.
• Functional fiber consists of isolated, non-digestible carbohydrates that have beneficial physiological effects in humans. This includes non-digestible plant (for example, resistant starch, pectin, and gums), chitin, chitosan, or commercially produced (for example, resistant starch, polydextrose, inulin, and indigestible dextrins) carbohydrates.
• Total fiber is the sum of dietary fiber and functional fiber. It's not important to differentiate between which forms of each of these fibers you are getting in your diet. Your total fiber is what matters. You may also hear fiber referred to as bulk or roughage. Call it what you want, but always remember that fiber is an essential part of everyone's diet. While fiber does fall under the category of carbohydrates, in comparison, it does not provide the same number of calories, nor is it processed the way that other sources of carbohydrates are.

This difference can be seen among the two categories that fiber is divided into: soluble and insoluble.

• Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance. Sources of soluble fiber are oats, legumes (beans, peas, and soybeans), apples, bananas, berries, barely, some vegetables, and psylluim.
• Insoluble fiber increases the movement of material through your digestive tract and increases your stool bulk. Sources of insoluble fiber are whole wheat foods, bran, nuts, seeds, and the skin of some fruits and vegetables.

Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids. They are essential to human health but cannot be manufactured by the body. For this reason, omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained from food. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut, other marine life such as algae and krill, certain plants (including purslane), and nut oils. Also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week. It is advised that pregnant women and mothers, nursing mothers, young children, and women who might become pregnant not eat several types of fish, including swordfish, shark, and king mackerel. These individuals should also limit consumption of other fish, including albacore tuna, salmon, and herring. They can take omega-3 fatty acids in quality dietary supplements that are certified mercury-free by a reputable third-party lab.

There are three major types of omega 3 fatty acids that are ingested in foods and used by the body: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Once eaten, the body converts ALA to EPA and DHA, the two types of omega-3 fatty acids more readily used by the body. Extensive research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and help prevent risk factors associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. These essential fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be particularly important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function. In fact, infants who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy are at risk for developing vision and nerve problems. Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include extreme tiredness (fatigue), poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings or depression, and poor circulation.

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is essential to all life and is a component of coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule that is necessary for numerous vital chemical reactions to occur in cells. Pantothenic acid is essential to the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as for the synthesis of hormones and cholesterol.

The name pantothenic acid comes from the Greek word pantos, meaning "everywhere," referring to its wide distribution in most plants and animals. Rich food sources include meats, liver, kidney, fish/shellfish, chicken, vegetables, legumes, yeast, eggs, and milk. However, freezing and canning may lead to a loss of much of the pantothenic acid content. Whole grains are also a good source, although refining may degrade much of the pantothenic acid content. In commercial supplement products, vitamin B5 is available as D-pantothenic acid and as the synthetic products dexpanthenol (converted in the body to pantothenic acid) or calcium pantothenate. Pantothenic acid is frequently used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations. Only the dextrorotatory (D) isomer of pantothenic acid possesses biologic activity. Pantothenic acid deficiency is exceedingly rare and likely only occurs only in cases of the most severe life-threatening malnutrition. Most individuals likely obtain sufficient amounts from dietary sources.

Pantothenic acid has been used or studied for numerous health conditions, but has not been clearly demonstrated as beneficial for any. Oral, topical (on the skin), or injected forms have been used.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain by the pineal gland from the amino acid tryptophan. The synthesis and release of melatonin are stimulated by darkness and suppressed by light, suggesting the involvement of melatonin in circadian rhythm and regulation of diverse body functions. Levels of melatonin in the blood are highest prior to bedtime. Synthetic melatonin supplements have been used for a variety of medical conditions, most notably for disorders related to sleep. Melatonin possesses antioxidant activity, and many of its proposed therapeutic or preventive uses are based on this property. New drugs that block the effects of melatonin are in development, such as BMS-214778 or luzindole, and may have uses in various disorders.

Mangostene Juice

Description Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, which is touted for its antioxidants, especially xanthones (a type of chemical in certain plants.) Its fruit, including the rind and pulp, can be pureed together and sold as a drink. Its rind may be dried and powdered, and substances are also extracted from its bark.

Seaweed Extract

Seaweed contains all major and minor plant nutrients, and all trace elements; alginic acid; vitamins; auxins; at least two gibberellins; and antibiotics.

Of the seaweed contents listed after nutrients and trace elements, the first, alginic acid, is a soil conditioner; the remainder, if the word may be forgiven in this context, are plant conditioners. All are found in fresh seaweed, dried seaweed meal and liquid seaweed extract -- with the one exception of vitamins: these, while present in both fresh seaweed and dried seaweed meal, are absent from the extract.

We will deal first with alginic acid as a soil conditioner. It is a matter of common experience that seaweed, and seaweed products, improve the water-holding characteristics of soil and help the formation of crumb structure. They do this because the alginic acid in the seaweed combines with metallic radicals in the soil to form a polymer with greatly increased molecular weight, of the type known as cross-linked. One might describe the process more simply, if less accurately, by saying that the salts formed by alginic acid with soil metals swell when wet and retain moisture tenaciously, so helping the soil to form a crumb structure.

These brief notes cover two examples: one of the way in which seaweed helps to produce a crumb structure in the soil, another of the way in which it helps soil to retain moisture.

Goji Berry Juice

Himalayan goji berries and Chinese goji berries are equally effective when it comes to health but there is a difference in taste. The Chinese berries are smaller and a little bitter tasting. The Himalayan berries are larger, plumper and sweeter tasting. Either way, this marvelous little fruit with its health and anti-aging benefits, along with exercise, more of a vegetarian diet including fresh herbs, lots of water and fresh air, might very well be your fountain of youth.

• to strengthen the heart and alleviate heart palpitations
• fights insomnia and forgetfulness
• contains polysaccharides which control the pituitary glands that produce HGH (human growth hormone) which is a powerful anti-aging hormone
• can be used by pregnant women to alleviate morning sickness.
• Has in clinical trials shown a partial reversal in sexual dysfunction in seniors
• Used to boost the function of the immune system
• Has some anti-cancer properties and has been successfully used to treat hepatitis-B
• Has been used successfully for weight loss
• Helps the body detox, cleans the blood and build the immune system.

Here are some facts about this marvelous fruit:

• They contain 19 amino acids including the 8 essential amino acids.
• They have 21 trace minerals including zinc, calcium, germanium, selenium and phosphorus
• B vitamins
• Has more Beta-carotene than carrots (which converts to vitamin A) and has a complete spectrum of antioxidants.
• Has vitamin E which is almost unheard of in fruits
• Has 500 times more Vitamin C by weight than oranges
• It contains the anti-inflammatory agent beta-sitosterol which lowers cholesterol and takes care of sexual health
• They have essential fatty acids such as omega 6 and linoleic acid that regulate hormones
• Has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties

Pomegranate Juice

The cholesterol reduction effect has been observed only in small studies. This, as well as the anti-clogging effect of pomegranate juice, are the result of its concentration of antioxidants, and are similar to the effects shown in studies of red wine, black tea, and purple grape juice. There have been no large clinical trials showing that antioxidants can prevent heart attacks or other major heart-related events. In a peer-reviewed, men who had undergone surgery or radiation therapy for prostate cancer, could significantly slow the increase of prostate specific antigen when they consumed a glass of pomegranate juice daily.

While pomegranate juice provides vitamins and minerals, it is loaded with sugar. A 250 ml (8 oz) glass of pomegranate juice provides approximately 50% of an adult's recommended daily allowance (RDA) of the vitamins A, C and E 100% RDA of folic acid and 13% RDA of potassium. However, each such glass also exceeds the maximum daily amount of sugar recommended by the FAO and WHO, who recommend that only 10% of calories come directly from sugars. With about 30 grams of sugar, a glass of pomegranate juice has about as much sugar as many popular soft drinks and roughly equal to two servings of a sweetened breakfast cereal. And many commercial blends of pomegranate juice contain added sugar, sometime in the form of apple juice or grape juice.

L-Carnitine

Carnitine boosts energy by stimulating the body's burning of tryglycerides as fuel, and sparing the supply of glycogen stored in the liver for heavier exertion. During exercise, the body will burn fat at a rate of 75-80% of maximum exertion, thus less glycogen from carbohydrates is burned. L-carnitine allows the body to burn more fat, save more glycogen, and ultimately boost stamina and endurance. By providing more fat to the muscles, carnitine makes accessible an otherwise unavailable energy source.

Grapeseed Extract

• Grape seed extract is one of the most powerful antioxidants that fights free radicals.
• 20 times more potent than Vitamin C and 50 times stronger than Vitamin E.
• Helps improve cardiovascular health.
• Promotes brain, skin, and eye health.
• Anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory.
• It can penetrate the blood brain barrier to help protect the brain and nerve tissue
• Some studies show grape seed extract to prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries.
• It can also improve mental alertness and help prevent senility.

Soy Isoflavones

The main components of soy are proteins, soy bean oil and carbohydrates. These are healthy components but the soy isoflavones are responsible for many of health benefits. Dried soy beans contain about 200 mg soy isoflavones per 100 g soy beans. The most important soy isoflavones are daidzein and genistein.

Quercetin

Quercetin appears to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been promoted as being effective against a wide variety of diseases, including cancer. While some early lab results appear promising, as of yet there is no reliable clinical evidence that quercetin can prevent or treat cancer in humans.

Lutein

Lutein is a supplement used to slow aging, treat cancer, and to prevent cataracts and macular degeneration (eye problem).

Lycopene

• Lycopene is a proven antioxidant. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which may damage the body's cells.
• Research shows that lycopene in tomatoes can be absorbed more efficiently by the body if processed into juice, sauce, paste and ketchup. The chemical form of lycopene found in tomatoes is converted by the temperature changes involved in processing to make it more easily absorbed by the body.
• In the body, lycopene is deposited in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids.
• Regular high consumption of fruits and vegetables is recommended as part of healthy eating. Epidemiological studies have shown that high intake of lycopene-containing vegetables is inversely associated with the incidence of certain types of cancer. For example, habitual intake of tomato products has been inversely associated with the risk of cancer of the digestive tract among Italians. li>In one six-year study by Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health, the diets of more than 47,000 men were studied. Of 46 fruits and vegetables evaluated, only the tomato products (which contain large quantities of lycopene) showed a measurable relationship to reduce prostate cancer risk. As consumption of tomato products increased, levels of lycopene in the blood increased, and the risk for prostate cancer decreased. The study also showed that the heat processing of tomatoes and tomato products increases lycopene's bioavailability.
• Ongoing preliminary research suggests that lycopene is associated with reduced risk of macular degenerative disease, serum lipid oxidation and cancers of the lung, bladder, cervix and skin.
• Studies are underway to investigate other potential benefits of lycopene - including the H.J. Heinz Company sponsored research at the University of Toronto and at the American Health Foundation. These studies will focus on lycopene's possible role in the fight against cancers of the digestive tract, breast and prostate cancer.

Aloe Juice

Aloe Vera is extremely healthful for your mouth and gums. It enhances fibroblast function. Fibroblast are those remarkable little cells responsible for collagen formation. They also assist in the soothing of minor burns, cuts, scrapes, sunburn, and skin irritations. Aloe Vera provides natural support for the immune system. Since the immune system works around the clock protecting the body, aloe vera, with its natural immune enhancers, gives the body a continual arsenal from which to draw. Drinking 2 to 4 ounces of Aloe Vera Gel regularly may give your immune system the helping hand it needs. Aloe Vera can add a rich supply of building materials to produce and maintain healthy skin. The skin replenishes itself every 21 to 28 days. Using the nutritional building blocks of aloe vera, the skin can utilize these nutrients daily to help combat the effects of aging! A daily dose of Aloe Vera Juice made from pure aloe vera gel can be just what your skin is thirsting for. Some of the minerals found in aloe vera include calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, chromium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and zinc. What a powerful storehouse! We all know that adding foods to our diets with naturally occurring vitamins and minerals is recommended for overall health. Drinking Aloe Vera Gel is a natural and healthful way to replenish the body’s supply.

Minerals

Just like vitamins, minerals help your body grow, develop, and stay healthy. The body uses minerals to perform many different functions - from building strong bones to transmitting nerve impulses. Some minerals are even used to make hormones or maintain a normal heartbeat.

Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is the product of yeast ( Monascus purpureus ) grown on rice, and is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries. It contains several compounds collectively known as monacolins, substances known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. One of these, "monacolin K," is a potent inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, and is also known as mevinolin or lovastatin (Mevacor®, a drug produced by Merck & Co., Inc).

Red yeast rice extract has been sold as a natural cholesterol-lowering agent in over the counter supplements, such as Cholestin TM (Pharmanex, Inc). However, there has been legal and industrial dispute as to whether red yeast rice is a drug or a dietary supplement, involving the manufacturer, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the pharmaceutical industry (particularly producers of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor prescription drugs or "statins").

The use of red yeast rice in China was first documented in the Tang Dynasty in 800 A.D. A detailed description of its manufacture is found in the ancient Chinese pharmacopoeia, Ben Cao Gang Mu-Dan Shi Bu Yi, published during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). In this text, red yeast rice is proposed to be a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhea), blood circulation, and spleen and stomach health. Red yeast rice in a dried, powdered form is called Zhi Tai. When extracted with alcohol it is called Xue Zhi Kang.

Polycosonal

Polycosonol is a "natural" product that is a mixture of fatty alcohols from plant waxes. It is claimed to be beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels by decreasing cholesterol production in the liver and increasing the breakdown of cholesterol in the body. Prior to using the dietary supplement, you should talk to your healthcare provider if you have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant, or have any allergies. It is important to know that polycosonol has never been proven to be effective for lowering cholesterol.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell. It stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body. Zinc supports a healthy immune system, is needed for wound healing, helps maintain your sense of taste and smell, and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in small amounts. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of selenoproteins help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Free radicals are natural by-products of oxygen metabolism that may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Other selenoproteins help regulate thyroid function and play a role in the immune system.

Calcium

Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the human body, has several important functions. More than 99% of total body calcium is stored in the bones and teeth where it functions to support their structure. The remaining 1% is found throughout the body in blood, muscle, and the fluid between cells. Calcium is needed for muscle contraction, blood vessel contraction and expansion, the secretion of hormones and enzymes, and sending messages through the nervous system. A constant level of calcium is maintained in body fluid and tissues so that these vital body processes function efficiently. Bone undergoes continuous remodeling, with constant resorption (breakdown of bone) and deposition of calcium into newly deposited bone (bone formation). The balance between bone resorption and deposition changes as people age. During childhood there is a higher amount of bone formation and less breakdown. In early and middle adulthood, these processes are relatively equal. In aging adults, particularly among postmenopausal women, bone breakdown exceeds its formation, resulting in bone loss, which increases the risk for osteoporosis (a disorder characterized by porous, weak bones).

Multivitamins

A multivitamin is a preparation intended to supplement a human diet with vitamins, dietary minerals and other nutritional elements. Such preparations are available in the form of tablets, capsules, pastilles, powders, liquids and injectable formulations. Other than injectable formulations, which are only available and administered under medical supervision, multivitamins are recognised by the Codex Alimentarius Commision (the United Nations’ highest authority on food standards) as a category of food.

Chasteberry

As the name suggests, chasteberry (Latin name Vitex agnus-castus) is an herb that was once believed to suppress libido. According to medieval legend, monks chewed on the leaves of chasteberry trees in order to help them maintain their vow of celibacy. While it is now clear that the herb does not affect sex drive, extracts from the fruit of the Chasteberry tree may have some therapeutic effects on conditions related to the female reproductive system. Chasteberry trees, actually small shrubs found in tropical climates, produce flowers and berries that can be dried and used medicinally. Chasteberry is used to ease symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as well as to regulate menstruation. Though it contains no hormones, it appears that chasteberry can affect hormonal activity by stimulating the pituitary gland to decrease production of prolactin, a hormone involved in milk production. The reduction in prolactin can help to alleviate breast tenderness and other discomforts associated with PMS. Chasteberry also appears to affect levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone, other reproductive hormones that may contribute to symptoms related to the menstrual cycle. Chasteberry appears to be useful in reducing the irritability, bloating and depression that many women experience right before their menstrual periods begin. For that reason, it is finding its way into the formulations of some "just for women" fat burners.It can also minimize the pain and discomfort of fibrocystic breasts in women with this condition. Chasteberry may regulate ovulation and help women who are struggling with infertility to become pregnant by correcting a condition known as luteal phase defect. In addition, women who suffer from symptoms like hot flashes, sweating, vaginal dryness or depression due to hormonal imbalances associated with menopause may benefit from chaste berry. Symptoms of endometriosis and acne related to the menstrual cycle may respond to chaste berry as well. In addition to its wide range of uses to treat symptoms related to the reproductive system, chaste berry is also an antioxidant. As such, it is capable of stabilizing unpaired oxygen molecules. These molecules, the result of chemical reactions that take place in the body on a daily basis, are capable of causing damage throughout the body unless they are stabilized. Chasteberry may also be able to lower cholesterol levels in the blood as well as treat migraine headaches.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is a B vitamin. It helps the body make healthy new cells. Everyone needs folic acid. For women who may get pregnant, it is really important. When a woman has enough folic acid in her body before and during pregnancy, it can prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain or spine. Foods with folic acid in them include leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, peas and nuts. Enriched breads, cereals and other grain products also contain folic acid. If you don't get enough folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement.

Inositol

Like Choline, Inositol may be helpful in lowering an individual's cholesterol levels. However, Inositol has been found to be helpful in other areas as well, including the promotion of healthy hair, the prevention of eczema, and as an aid in the redistribution of body fat. Should you take supplemental doses of inositol? According to some sources, taking supplemental inositol can increase the effectiveness of both choline and Vitamin E. Inositol is part of the vitamin B complex. It promotes healthy brain development and function, and works closely with choline to move fats out of the heart and liver.

Inositol and choline combine to produce lecithin, a type of lipid that is needed to form healthy membranes for every living cell in the body. Lecithin helps keep the brain, heart, and liver healthy, and aids in the absorption of thiamin (vitamin B1) and vitamin A. Inositol is also vital for hair growth, and, as a component of lecithin, helps to prevent high cholesterol and the hardening of the arteries caused by cholesterol buildup. It has also been said to have a calming effect on the nervous system, and is being studied as a possible treatment for depression, panic attacks, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Paba

Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a compound that is an essential nutrient for microorganisms and some animals, but has not been shown to be essential for people. PABA is considered by some to be a member of the vitamin B-complex, though its actions differ widely from other B vitamins.

PABA has been reported to enhance the effects of cortisone. It may also prevent or even reverse accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue.

The most well-known property of PABA is as an effective sunscreen, when used topically. Oral PABA supplementation has not been shown to possess any sunscreening properties. An isolated trial published in 1942 reported that 12 of 16 infertile women were able to become pregnant after supplementing with 100 mg of PABA taken four times per day for three to seven months. The effect of PABA on fertility has not been studied in modern research.

Researchers have attempted to discover whether large amounts of PABA would be helpful in various connective tissue disorders. Although preliminary studies have reported that PABA (12 grams per day) was helpful to people with scleroderma, a double-blind trial found that supplementation with PABA did not lead to improvement. Older published reports of uncontrolled investigations suggest that PABA may be helpful in a variety of conditions, including dermatomyositis,8 Peyronie’s disease (accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue in the penis), pemphigus (a severe blistering disease),10 and vitiligo (a disorder in which patches of skin lose their pigmentation). However, PABA was reported to cause vitiligo in one report Older preliminary reports found that PABA darkened gray hair in a minority of elderly (but not younger) people. In these trials, between 200 and 600 mg of PABA was taken per day for several months, in some cases accompanied by other B vitamins. However, at least one other study found that PABA did not darken gray hair.14 Therefore, the evidence supporting the use of PABA as a way to return gray hair to its original color remains very weak.

Glucosamine & MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM or dimethylsulfone) is a high boiling organic sulfone. It is primary used industrially as a high boiling organic solvent for carrying out inorganic and organic reactions. More recently MSM is claimed to have helath benefits for a wide range of medical illness. However, it is not marketed as a medical drug for this would require strict medical testing and studies so it has been sold as a dietary supplement, which doesn't require such strict controls!. There is no evidence that MSM is toxic, but suffers from the problem that as a high boiling solvent it is difficult to remove impurities from MSM solutions and coupled with the fact that is rapidily passes through the skin surface, its danger lies in that is can easily take toxic chemicals into the body. Glucosamine is also sold as an "dietary supplement", it is a synthetic chemical similiar to the chemcials that the body makes to stimulate the growth of cartilage. The health claims of glucosamine as a result relate to symptoms of arthritis- pain and swelling. The United States Food and Drug Administration has not approved it to treat arthritis. As such, at this time it is sold as a nutritional supplement and therefore does not need evidence of safety and efficacy.

Curcurmin

WHITE WILLOW BARK

White willow bark is the original aspirin. The medicinal use of willow bark dates back to the Greek physician Hippocrates (400 B.C.), who advised his patients to chew on willow bark to reduce fever and inflammation. It became really popular in the 1800's-so popular that it caught the interest of the German company Bayer. Bayer found a created a synthetic derivative called acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and mass-produced it.

Cinnamon Exract

A water-soluble, cinnamon extract has been shown to reduce fasting blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, according to a new study from the University of Hannover in Hannover, Germany published in a recent issue of the European Journal of Clinical Investigation. This was the first study evaluating the effect of a water-soluble cinnamon extract on glycemic control and the lipid profile of Western patients with type 2 diabetes. The results further add to a growing body of clinical evidence demonstrating supplementation with a water-soluble cinnamon extract may play an important role in managing blood sugar levels and improving insulin function.

Bitter Melon extract

Most commonly found growing in tropical parts fo the world, including Africa, Asia and South America, the bitter melon plant is used for nutritional as well as it medicinal value. While all parts of the plant are used, the fruit of the Bitter Melon is most often used for creating medicinal remedies. Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia) is a cucumber-shaped, green vegetable believed to have a high iron content, which increases its value as a preventative medicine for many health conditions. Bitter Melon has two proteins which are thought to repress the AIDS virus. However, its effectiveness in humans for the treatment of AIDS has not been substantiated by clinical evidence. Preliminary research also suggests that bitter melon, consumed in any liquid or solid form, may enhance Type 2 diabetics' ability to control blood sugar.

Three active constituents in bitter melon know as steroidal saponins (charntin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids) are believed to be responsible for the blood-sugar lowering actions that could potential benefit individuals with diabetes mellitus. Historically bitter melon has been used as a remedy for an assortment of conditions. The leaves and fruit have both been used to season soups and to make teas and beer.

• Aids in sugar regulation by suppressing the neural response to sweet taste stimuli
• Useful for those with diabetes mellitus
• Lectins from bitter gourd may possess significant antilipolytic and lipogenic properties
• Useful as an emtic, purgative, and as an anthelmentic, in jaundice, and piles
• Indigestion
• Diabetes

Bittermelon

Also known as Karela or Momordica Charantia is a herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps body functions operating normally. It contains Gurmarin, a polypeptide considered to be similar to bovine insulin, which has been shown in experimental studies to achieve a positive sugar regulating effect by suppressing the neural response to sweet taste stimuli. Karela's principle constituents are lectins, charantin and momordicine. The fruits have long been used in India as a folk remedy for diabetes mellitus. Lectins from the bitter gourd have shown significant

antilipolytic and lipogenic activities. The fruits and leaves of the plant contain two alkaloids, one of them being momordicine. The plant is reported to contain a glucoside, a saponin-like substance, a resin with an unpleasant taste, an aromatic volatile oil and a mucilage. The seeds contain an alkaloid (m.p. 236°) and an anthelmintic principle in the germ; they also contain urease. The fruits, leaves and extracts of Momordica charantia possess pharmacological properties and medicinal uses. It is useful as an emetic, purgative, in bilious affections, burning soles of the feet, as an anthelmentic, in piles, leprosy, jaundice, as a vermifuge, astringent in hemorrhoids, as a stomachic, antispasmodic, antioxytocic, hypoglycemic, antipyretic, mild hypotensive, anorectic and for the potentiation of ACh, histamine and BaCI2 induced contractions and inhibition of ACh of skeletal muscle. Clinical Studies p-Insulin was tested in a controlled clinical trial. In juvenile diabetics, the peak hypoglycemic effect was observed after 1-8 hrs; in patients with maturity onset diabetes, maximum fall in blood sugar level was noted after 12 hrs. Karela or Bitter Melon has also been reported to show hypocholesteroemic activity.

Gymnema Sylvestre

Also known as Gurmar and Meshashringi, whose Hindi name literally means 'sugar destroyer', has been used in Ayurveda for several centuries to regulate sugar metabolism. The hypoglycemic (blood sugar-lowering) action of gymnema leaves was first documented in the late 1920s. This action is gradual in nature, differing from the rapid effect of many prescription hypoglycemic drugs. Gymnema leaves raise insulin levels by regeneration of the cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin. Other research has shown that gymnema also improves uptake of glucose into cells by increasing the activity of the glucose utilizing enzymes, and prevents adrenaline from stimulating the liver to produce glucose, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. The leaves are also noted for lowering serum cholesterol and triglycerides. It also abolishes the taste of