Yearly Archives: 2010

Maintain Good Eye Health

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

As a health reporter, I spend hours in front of my computer monitor every day tracking and writing about the latest advances in natural medicine. And, even though I love what I do, it can be extremely hard on the eyes.

Unless our eyes are bothering us, most of us don’t pay much attention to them – and I’m as guilty as anyone. But poor nutrition, excessive sunlight and yes, long hours in front of a computer can be a set-up for some serious vision problems later in life, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

Like all of our other body parts, our eyes need good nutrition to function properly. If you eat a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, you should be getting all of the antioxidants you need to help protect your eyes. But it’s hard to maintain a healthy diet all of the time, particularly when we’re busy. The good news is that you can cover your nutritional bases by supplementing your diet with a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement. Make sure your supplement includes vitamin C and E, the B vitamins, selenium, zinc and carotenoids, especially beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, which research has shown are vital to healthy eyes.

Along with making sure you’re getting plenty of eye-friendly nutrients, there are other simple things you can do maintain good eyesight for life. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the hours you and I spend in front of the computer monitor can result in red or watery eyes, difficulty focusing and eye fatigue. Luckily, preventing computer eyestrain is easy. Just get up and do something else for five minutes every hour or so to give your eyes a much-needed break.

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Sun exposure is one of the major contributors to age-related macular degeneration, say scientists at the University of Wisconsin. The next time you’re in the market for a new pair of sunglasses, make sure they come with a special coating that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Last week I told you about some natural ways to relive the respiratory symptoms of seasonal allergies. But allergies can also make our eyes look and feel miserable. When I moved to the desert, I never dreamed that allergies would be a problem. But the few blooming botanicals we do have can bring on an instant case of itchy, red and swollen eyes. For pollen-induced irritation, I’ve found that the advice nutritionist Phyllis Balch gives in her book “Prescription for Herbal Healing” (Avery Publishing, 2002) provides fast relief. She recommends taking 500 to 1,000 mg. of stinging nettles, which acts like a natural antihistamine. To reduce swelling and redness, you can also bathe your eyes with an eyewash containing an extract of the anti-inflammatory herb eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis).

Once I hit my 40th birthday, I started noticing that it was harder to see at night. I asked my ophthalmologist if there were any herbs I could take to improve my night vision. He suggested that I try bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). Research shows that bilberry rejuvenates the light-sensitive pigment in the retina and improves eye capillary health. Studies on air-traffic controllers, airplane pilots and truck drivers have found that bilberry also helps improve night vision and shortens the time it takes for our eyes to adjust to the dark. Doctors and herbalists typically recommend taking 240 to 480 mg. of bilberry a day.

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This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

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By the way, my ophthalmologist also mentioned that nightblindness can be an early sign of vitamin A deficiency, so make sure you’re getting enough of this important vitamin in your diet, preferably in the form of beta-carotene.

One Last Thing …

My daughter used to get terrible episodes of conjunctivitis, better known as “pink-eye.” A bacterial infection, virus or injury to the eye can bring on this painful and unsightly condition. And, as my daughter discovered, wearing contact lenses can also increase your risk. While serious conjunctivitis is best treated by a health professional, many herbalists say that taking 500 mg. of goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) three times a day is an effective remedy for mild cases. (A word of caution: don’t take goldenseal internally for more than seven days and avoid the herb entirely if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant.) To help relieve the pain and itching associated with conjunctivitis, you can also make an eyewash with a tincture of goldenseal.

The gift of sight is precious. It’s great to know that there are natural steps we can all take to keep them healthy for a lifetime.

References:

AREDS Report No. 8. “A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss.” Archives of Ophthalmology. 2001; 119:1417-1436.

de Oliveira Miguel, et al. “Ultrastructural study of first and second order neurons in the visual system of the crab Ucides cordatus following exposure to ultraviolet radiation.” Micron 2002; 33:627-637.

Head KA. “Natural therapies for ocular disorders.” Alternative Medicine Review. 2001; 6: 141-146.

Mares-Perlman JA, et al. “Lutein and zeaxanthin in the diet and serum and their relation to age-related maculopathy in the third national health and nutrition examination survey.” American Journal of Epidemiology. 2001; 152: 424-432.

Vision Loss and Protecting Your Sight

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

“Where were you when the lights went out?” That’s what millions of Americans and Canadians were asking each other after the recent blackout that left more than 6 million people in the dark throughout the Northeast, Midwest and Canada. It’s one of those shared experiences that can bring out the best in people. For 29 hours, folks from New York to Detroit to Toronto helped each other, developing a sense of camaraderie and community.

But just imagine living the rest of your life in the dark. That’s what people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have to look forward to. And instead of fostering closeness, AMD can leave its victims feeling helpless, isolated and afraid.

A Dim View

Personally, I can’t think of anything more frightening than the prospect of going blind. Yet, AMD is the most common cause of vision loss in Americans over sixty. It’s also the most serious – and the odds just get worse as we get older. In fact, one in three people over the age of 75 are affected by AMD.

Now, we all experience some visual impairment as we age. But, there’s a big difference between needing a pair of glasses and developing AMD, a disease marked by the degeneration of the center part of the retina known as the macula. The macula is responsible for fine, detailed vision and as it deteriorates, your field of vision narrows until you can’t see at all. The most typical form of the disease is dry macular degeneration, which occurs when the light-sensitive macular cells break down. This type of AMD may take years to develop and the most common symptoms are a gradual shift in perception (normally straight objects appear bent or wavy) and a dark or blurry spot in the center of your vision.

Less common, but by far more debilitating, is wet macular degeneration. Wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels behind the retina grow toward it and leak blood and fluid. This form of macular degeneration causes a very sudden – and severe – loss of central vision.

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So, who is at risk? Although your risk of developing AMD increases with age, other risk factors include gender (women are at a higher risk than men), a family history of the disease, smoking and excessive exposure to sunlight. And, according to Australian researchers, the use of blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering drugs can also put you at higher risk (yet another reason to opt for nutritional intervention instead of ACE inhibitors and statin drugs).

But, while an ophthalmologist can tell you if you’re at risk – and can even detect the early onset of AMD – mainstream medicine doesn’t have much to offer in the way of treatment. But I’ll tell you about some natural things you can do to prevent and possibly even slow down the progression of AMD.

Powerful Protectors

Sure, we all know that vitamin A and its precursor beta-carotene can protect our eyesight. But, over the past decade, scientists have discovered two other carotenoids that offer even more protection against vision loss. In fact, researchers from Tufts University and the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging found that the carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein can reduce the risk of developing AMD by 40 percent. Here’s why: zeaxanthin and lutein are concentrated in the macula. The concentration of zeaxanthin in the center of the macula is about 85 times greater than its concentration in the periphery. Lutein is also dispersed throughout the entire retina and acts like a filter to protect the macula from potentially damaging forms of light. In fact, these two carotenoids play such an important role in maintaining your vision that one study by the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston found that 60-year-olds with normal levels of zeaxanthin and lutein have the visual sensitivity of 20-year-olds! Other dietary studies have confirmed the link between the frequent consumption of kale, spinach or collard greens (all good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin) and lower AMD risk. According to the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which took place at the University of Wisconsin, consuming 6 mg. of both lutein and zeaxanthin a day can reduce the risk of developing AMD. But getting that much zeaxanthin and lutein through food alone can be tough. (Be honest, when was the last time you ate a heaping bowl of greens?) The best way I’ve found to maintain healthy levels of these two sight-saving nutrients is with supplements. Another carotenoid, astaxanthin, may also offer insurance against AMD. Derived from a microalgae, animal studies have found that this novel carotenoid has some amazing antioxidant properties. In fact, researchers have found astaxanthin to be 100 times more potent than viramin E and 10 times more powerful then beta-carotene. And, unlike beta-carotene, astaxanthin easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Investigations of the antioxidant effectiveness of astaxanthin in the eye are just beginning but the preliminary findings are already very promising. In one study by scientists at the University of Illinois in Chicago, astaxanthin protected the retinas of rats exposed to damaging ultraviolet light. The results suggest that astaxanthin could be useful for the prevention and treatment of neuronal damage associated with age-related macular degeneration.

The World's Quickest Solution for Ending Prostate and Urinary Misery

This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

Simply stated, these phytonutrients represent a huge step beyond beta sitosterol, saw palmetto, and other phytosterols alone.

Simply click HERE if you want to have fast prostate relief...restful, uninterrupted sleep...no more constant "urges to go"...enhanced virility...and optimal prostate support for life.

According to ophthalmologist and surgeon James McMillan, M.D., taking 2 mg. of astaxanthin a day can help prevent AMD. But since the evidence is still speculative, it’s also a good idea to include an eye supplement containing the dynamic duo – zeaxanthin and lutein.

One Last Thing …

Ginkgo biloba has been getting a lot of attention lately. So it really didn’t surprise me that this versatile herb is also good for warding off the onset of AMD. Because ginko helps prevent oxidative damage, improves circulation and enhances cellular metabolism, researchers have suggested that these anti-aging properties may prevent degenerative changes in the eye. Several studies have shown that ginkgo has significant value in cases of retinal damage and that it can be used successfully and safely to protect the eye from AMD. Ginkgo may also offer some help to people already suffering from the disease. In one double-blind trial, 99 patients with dry senile macular degeneration were given either 240 mg. or 60 mg. of ginkgo a day. After just four weeks, the researchers found that those taking the higher dose of the herb had significant improvements in visual acuity compared to those taking the lower dose. When it comes to protecting your sight, these natural alternatives have a definite edge over mainstream medicine. If you want to see into your future, include these eye-friendly supplements in your daily routine now.

This Just In …

Not long ago, I received an e-mail from a reader named Preston, who wanted to know if there was a safe way to use tanning beds. Now, I can certainly understand why some people may want to keep that golden summer glow. But the truth is that there is NO safe way to tan. And tanning beds may be even more dangerous than spending a day in the sun.

Tanning beds use Ultraviolet-A light to trigger the production of melanin, the pigment that gives us that characteristic bronzed look. But the amount of UVA tanning lamps expose you to is many, many times higher than you get outdoors. As dermatologists learn more about the effect of different wavelengths of light on our skin, it’s now understood that UVA rays are the ones responsible for premature ageing.

There are bigger concerns, too. In a recently published 37-year study, researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden examined information on more than 51,000 people diagnosed with skin cancer. The data showed that squamous cell carcinoma has become the most rapidly increasing type of cancer in Sweden in the past 20 years. Noninvasive types of skin cancer increased “drastically,” the researchers say, especially on areas of the body normally protected from the sun by clothing. Their report, which appeared in The Archives of Dermatology, suggests the increase is attributable to the use of tanning beds.

Earlier studies have found that people who used tanning devices were 1.5 to 2.5 times more likely to have basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer than people who did not use the devices. And at least one investigation found that exposure to the type of ultraviolet light used in tanning salons can alter DNA.

So, Preston, forget tanning beds – and limit your exposure to the sun, even after the scorch of summer is gone.

References:

Fies P, et al. “Ginkgo extract in impaired vision-treatment with special extract Egb 761 of impaired vision due to dry senile macular degeneration.” Wien Med Wochenschr . 2002;52:23-426.

Gale CR, et al. “Lutein and zeaxanthin status and risk of age-related macular degeneration.” Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science. 2003;44:1-2465.

Guerin M, et al. “ Haematococcus astaxanthin: health and nutritional applications.” Report presented at the 1st Congress of the International Society for Applied Phycology. 2002.

McCarty CA, et al. “Risk factors for age-related maculopathy: the Visual Impairment Project.” Archives of Ophthalmology. 2001;119:1455-1462.

Seddon JM, et al. “Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group.” Journal of the American Medical Association. 1994; 272:1413-1420.

“Tanning Beds Fingered for Rise in Skin Cancer.” HealthScout. 23 July 2003.

Constipation and a Healthy Fiber Supplement

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

After decades of fiber-poor food choices, whole grains have become hot sellers. White bread, sugary cereals and snacks now boast more fiber than ever before. You can even buy whole-grain Doritos! And thanks to diets like South Beach and the Sonoma Diet, more of us are opting for fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

But, despite this new trend, chronic constipation is still an issue for a lot of folks – even if you eat a healthy diet. Although occasional constipation can affect anyone, chronic constipation is more common in women and people over age 65. It also tends to occur after surgery or if you are taking certain pain medications like codeine or morphine.

Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways to get things moving again. So, before you reach for the Ex-lax, try the following gentle alternatives.

What’s Normal?

The normal frequency of bowel movements varies widely from person to person – from once or more a day to three times a week. In general, however, you are likely constipated if you pass a hard, dry stool less than three times a week.

Constipation can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable and you may find yourself straining during bowel movements. Adding more insoluble fiber to your diet will soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Foods that are high in insoluble fiber include fruits, vegetables and whole grains, especially wheat bran, brown rice or whole grain bread. Another option is to sprinkle one teaspoon of ground flaxseeds over your food. Flaxseeds can be found at the health food store and some grocery stores, and they have a mild, nutty taste.

If diet doesn’t do the trick, try a fiber supplement made from psyllium husks. A natural fiber supplement will add bulk to the stool and soften it so that it’s easier to pass. If you opt for a supplement, however, make sure you take it with plenty of water, otherwise fiber can have the opposite effect and be constipating.

No matter how you choose to increase your fiber intake, do it gradually. A sudden boost in fiber can cause gas, bloating and discomfort.

Be Pro-Active

Probiotics, like lactobacillus acidophilus, can promote intestinal health by suppressing the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, improving immune function, enhancing the protective barrier of the digestive tract and helping to produce vitamin K.

There is some preliminary evidence that probiotic supplements also improve constipation. One placebo-controlled study looked at the effect a probiotic beverage had in people with chronic constipation. The probiotic drink, which contained a strain of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus casei Shirota, resulted in a significant improvement in stool consistency and the severity of constipation.

Another recent study examined the effectiveness of probiotics on 636 people with constipation-variety irritable bowel syndrome. The patients were given a probiotic supplement containing Bifidobacterium longum and FOS. After 36 days, most of the participants reported that they were able to move their bowels four times a week compared to less than three times at the start of the study. They also experienced less bloating and abdominal pain.

Look for a probiotic supplement that contains a variety of live Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus bacteria, along with FOS. FOS stands for Fructo-oligosaccharides, a carbohydrate that provides the food bacteria need to thrive. The minimum dose is one billion live organisms a day, which should be listed on the ingredient label. While that might sound like a lot, it’s actually about the same amount you’ll find in a cup of yogurt.

Get Some Feedback

Biofeedback therapy may also help people with constipation resulting from pelvic floor dysfunction – a condition where the pelvic floor muscles don’t function properly. It can occur as a result of obesity, an enlarged prostate or after childbirth.

Here’s how it works: Biofeedback therapists teach you how to better coordinate the muscles used to defecate. Approximately 70 percent of people have improved symptoms after biofeedback training. In one six-month study comparing biofeedback to laxatives in people with chronic, severe pelvic floor dysfunction, biofeedback sessions were more effective than the laxative, with 80 percent of the biofeedback patients reporting major improvements. Best of all, the benefits appeared to last at least two years.

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To locate a biofeedback therapist in your area, go to the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback website at www.aapb.org. for a referral to a qualified practitioner.

One Last Thing …

What about herbal laxatives like cascara sagrada, senna or aloe vera juice? Some, like senna, are approved as over-the-counter treatments for constipation – and they work well as a short-term solution. Problems occur when people become dependent on herbal laxatives and use them for weeks, months or even years at a time in order to have a daily bowel movement.

Prolonged use can cause the bowels to lose the ability to move on their own, and has been linked to chronic diarrhea, potassium depletion leading to muscle weakness, irregular heart rhythms and kidney or liver impairment. If you’re tempted to use an herbal laxative for more than a week, make sure you check with your doctor.

This Just In …

First it was Elizabeth Edwards and breast cancer. Now, White House Press Secretary Tony Snow is battling a recurrence of colon cancer, which has spread to his liver. If this sudden focus on cancer has you thinking, a new study shows how easy it is to prevent one of the nastier types of cancer – kidney cancer.

It’s information you’ve heard before – eat lots of fruit and vegetables. That’s what a group of Italian researchers found when they looked at 767 people with kidney cancer and compared them to 1,534 people without that diagnosis. Those with the highest intakes of naturally occurring flavonoids, which are found mostly in fruits and vegetables, were 20 percent less likely to develop kidney cancer than those who had the lowest intakes.

So belly up to the salad bar and stock up at the product aisle. Your kidneys – and the rest of you – will definitely appreciate this tasty bit of prevention.

References:

Bosetti C, Rossi M, McLaughlin JK, et al. “Flavonoids and the Risk of Renal Cell Carcinoma.” Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. 2007;16:98-101.

Chiarioni G, Whitehead WE, Pezza V, et al. “Biofeedback is superior to laxatives for normal transit constipation due to pelvic floor dyssynergia.” Gastroenterology. 2006;130: 657-664.

Colecchia A, Vestito A, La Rocca A, et al. “Effect of a symbiotic preparation on the clinical manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome, constipation-variant. Results of an open, uncontrolled multicenter study.” Minerva gastroenterologica e dietologica. 2006;52:349-358.

Koebnick C, Wagner I, Leitzmann P, et al. “Probiotic beverage containing Lactobacillus casei Shirota improves gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with chronic constipation.” Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology. 2003;17: 655-659.

DHA and EPA Fatty Acids

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

We all know that eating large amounts of dietary fat not only puts on the pounds, it can increase our risk for heart disease. But here’s a surprise – a high fat diet can also speed up age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Last September, I told you that AMD is the leading cause of irreversible visual impairment and blindness in people over the age of 50 (“When the lights go out” 9/23/03). I also told you how devastating this disease is for its victims and their families. So anything that can slow down the progression of this disease is indeed good news – especially if it’s something as simple as changing the way we eat.

Out of Sight

Just to recap: There are two forms of AMD, dry and wet. The most typical form of the disease is the dry variety, which occurs when the light-sensitive macular cells break down. This type of AMD can take years to develop and the most common symptoms are a gradual shift in perception (normally straight objects appear bent or wavy) and a dark or blurry spot in the center of your vision.

Less common, but much more debilitating, is wet macular degeneration. Wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels behind the retina grow toward it and leak blood and fluid. This form of macular degeneration causes a very sudden – and severe – loss of central vision.

And while family history can up your risk of developing AMD, researchers have also known that bad habits (smoking and too much sun) can also increase your odds. But according to this new study, you can now add another bad habit to the list: eating too much fat.

Fat Chance

The study, which was conducted by researchers at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, involved 261 patients over the age of 60 who all had some signs of AMD in at least one eye. Participants were followed for an average of 4.6 years and completed food frequency questionnaires designed to measure the amounts and kinds of foods eaten in the previous week.

After reviewing the data, the researchers found that higher levels of dietary fat intake were associated with the progression of AMD to the advanced stages associated with visual loss. The biggest culprits? Saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and trans fats. The very fats we eat everyday!

Ok, so we know that saturated and trans fats are bad for us on a number of levels. But monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats? These fats are supposed to be good for you. And they are – in small amounts. These beneficial fats play a critical role in building cell membranes, producing hormones and helping the body absorb and utilize fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K). But Americans have trouble practicing moderation – especially when it tastes so good.

The problem is, say the researchers, foods with higher levels of these fats, particularly processed baked goods, increase the risk of accelerating AMD by about two-fold.

Whether or not limiting these fats also prevents AMD is something the researchers didn’t explore. But, as I’ve said before, for optimum health, it’s wise to limit the amount of saturated and polyunsaturated fat you consume – and try to completely avoid the synthetic trans fats found in many processed foods.

Fish in a Nutshell

The news isn’t all bad though. According to the study, the fat in nuts and fish were the exception with protective effects on eye health. That’s not surprising since nuts are rich in eye-friendly zinc and vitamin E. And fish is loaded with omega3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) – specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

A few years ago, a study by Harvard researchers found that, while consuming large amounts of linolenic acid (found in corn and safflower oil)increased the risk of AMD, eating fish high in DHA four times a week actually lowered the risk of developing the disease by 35 percent.

If you suffer from AMD and want to retain your vision longer, try adding omega3-rich fish like salmon, tuna or mackerel to your diet at least four times a week. But for maximum protection, supplement with essential fatty acid capsules containing both DHA and EPA fatty acids. By boosting your intake of these healthy fats, you may just be able to say “Here’s looking at you” for years to come.

Are You Suffering From...

  • Love handles and a pot belly
  • Romance that isn't what it used to
  • Forgetfulness and inattention
  • Low (or no) strength and endurance
  • A sex drive that's shifted into neutral...or worse

If so...you may have Mature Male Burnout.  Click here to discover more about this unique condition and what you can do about it.

One Last Thing …

The Massachusetts researchers also noted that the carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein are powerful weapons against AMD. In fact, these two nutrients can slash your risk by 40 percent. One reason, according to a recent study in the Journal of Nutrition, is that supplemental zeaxanthin and lutein can significantly increase macular pigment density. By boosting the pigment, and hence the thickness of the macula, these two nutrients protect the eye from light damage.

While egg yolks, kale, spinach, broccoli and collard greens are good sources of these carotenoids, you would need to eat massive quantities to get the 6 mg. a day you need to stave off AMD. You can, however, get this protective amount by taking supplements. But don’t look for a separate zeaxanthin supplement. Since this carotenoid can’t be chemically separated from lutein, all lutein supplements contain zeaxanthin.

This Just In …

I’m glad I was sitting down when I read a recent story from the BBC. As it was, I could barely believe my eyes.

It seems that a top executive at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is now admitting that 90 percent of prescription drugs don’t work for most people! He went on to say that only 30 to 50 percent of patients see any benefit at all. This coming from a man who represents Europe’s largest drug maker.

But this epiphany doesn’t seem to be slowing down GSK’s “one-size fits all” mentality. The company recently announced that it has more than 20 potential $1 billion-a year blockbuster drugs in development.

Even so, it’s rare that a drug company would admit that their products are a failing, although profitable, proposition. Who knows, maybe the pharmaceutical industry conscious will really start bothering them and they’ll publicly acknowledge just how dangerous their drugs really are. Then again, maybe not.

References:

Bone RA, et al. “Lutein and zeaxanthin dietary supplements raise macular pigment density and serum concentrations of these carotenoids in humans.” Journal of Nutrition. 2003;133:1953.

Brown NA, et al. “Nutrition supplements and the eye.” Eye. 1998;12:127-33.

Cho E, et al. “Prospective study of dietary fat and the risk of age-related macular degeneration.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2001;73:209-218.

“Dietary fats may increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration.” Reuters. 8 Dec 2003.

“Drugs ‘don’t work on many people.’” BBC News. 8 Dec 2003.

Obesity

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

I’m sure you’ve seen the commercials for those “magic” diet pills that banish belly fat, supercharge your metabolism or cut food cravings. And then there are the testimonials by anorexic spokespeople swearing by this or that eating plan.

Personally, these ads drive me crazy. But they speak to an underlying truth: Obesity has become a critical health problem.

The dramatic rise in the number of overweight and obese Americans has lead to a catastrophic rise in diabetes, cardiovascular disease and many other serious health problems. At the root of these problems is a condition known as insulin resistance, in which the insulin receptors no longer work efficiently. The body compensates for this by producing higher than normal amounts of insulin. In the early stages this can cause excess weight gain that typically shows up around the belly. This additional weight in turn makes insulin resistance worse.

Resisting the Trend

It’s estimated that as many as 40 percent of adults and an ever increasing number of children have some degree of insulin resistance. You might even be one of them.

Fortunately, losing weight can play an important role in correcting insulin resistance, even if you’re in the advanced stages of diabetes. The challenge, however, is to lose weight without making the condition worse. Fad diets based on extreme calorie restriction can sometimes be the very cause of insulin resistance. Instead of trying the latest diet craze, an ideal weight loss plan keeps your blood sugar levels on an even keel as you gradually take off the pounds.

Calories aren’t the only concern. Poor eating habits that include an overabundance of high glycemic index foods like white bread and sugary sodas can cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly then sharply decline. This glucose roller-coaster can lead to a repetitive cycle of uncontrollable hunger, excessive cravings for carbohydrates and the increased conversion of blood glucose into stored fat. This type of eating can also affect mood and energy levels, making you cranky and fatigued.

Fit Foods

So what’s a safe way to lose weight and reduce your risk of insulin resistance? Following a Mediterranean diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy oils, nuts, fish and lean meat is a good way to start. Want more help? Research has also targeted some specific foods that can help keep your blood sugar levels on an even keel.

-Barley is a high-fiber, low GI food that satisfies hunger and fights fatigue because the body burns it very slowly. This tasty grain also won’t cause erratic blood sugar levels, which helps control cravings and over-eating. As an added bonus, barley is a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, making it beneficial to your digestive tract, cholesterol levels and possibly your immune system.

-Whey protein helps stabilize blood glucose levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This in turn reduces hunger by lowering insulin levels and making it easier for the body to burn fat. Whey protein also helps stimulate the release of two appetite-suppressing hormones. And it’s rich in leucine which helps preserve lean muscle tissue while promoting fat loss. Adding whey protein to a mid-day snack or beverage provides healthy energy and may help control food intake at the next meal.

-Flax provides both fiber and essential fatty acids (EFAs). Consuming a certain amount of dietary fat, in the form of EFAs, acts like the ignition for burning calories and maintaining metabolic processes. It also helps to give you that “satisfied” feeling when you have finished eating a meal.

-Green Tea increases metabolism, burns fat and balance blood glucose levels.

This tasty drink also helps aid weight loss by increasing your metabolic rate, causing greater calorie burn. Plus it’s a powerful antioxidant that may help ward off cancer.

Green tea may also be useful as a glucose regulator, slowing the rise in blood sugar following a meal. It does this by slowing the action of a particular digestive enzyme called amylase. This enzyme is pivotal in the breakdown of carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar levels to soar after eating.

Safer Supplements

There is increasing evidence that including the following key supplements as part of your weight loss plan can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. These supplements will also help you maintain more sensible eating. And you’ll experience less fat storage, more energy and better success achieving your optimal body weight.

-Chromium promotes healthy insulin function and increased energy. It’s an essential trace mineral that helps the body process carbohydrates and fats. According to one study, the chromium you get from food is poorly absorbed – a problem since chromium levels decrease with age. Supplements containing 200-1,000 mcg. of chromium picolinate taken daily safely improve blood glucose control.

-L-Carnitine is an amino acid that transports fat into the cells for burning. Which means, at least in theory, the more L-carnitine = the more fat burned. It’s not a far-fetched concept. Recent scientific evidence shows that increased levels of carnitine really do lead to increased fat burning.

-Banaba is a botanical extract from Southeast Asia that supports healthy blood glucose levels. Corosolic acid, a triterpenoid found in the leaves, helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating glucose uptake. This blood sugar lowering effect is similar to that of insulin, which induces glucose transport from the blood into body cells.

One Last Thing …

If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ve probably switched from regular to diet sodas and stocked up on no-calorie sweeteners. But scientists at Purdue University say that using an artificial sweetener instead of sugar may make it tougher, not easier, to lose weight.

During their animal study, rats were fed either yogurt sweetened with natural sugar or yogurt spiked with saccharin. It turns out that the artificial sweetener caused the rats to consume more calories and put on more weight and body fat. While that might seem counterintuitive, the researchers said that sweet foods may prompt the body to get ready to take in a lot of calories, but when sweetness in the form of artificial sweeteners is not followed by a large amount of calories, the body gets confused, which may lead to eating more or expending less energy than normal. Other artificial sweeteners like aspartame could have similar effects.

So if you’re watching your weight, forget fake sweeteners. Drink plenty of water, snack on sweet, juicy fruit and treat yourself to an ounce of chocolate now and again. You’ll never miss those unhealthy chemical sweeteners.

This Just In …

With spring on our doorstep and the fickle weather it brings, you may be suffering from sinus pain. Instead of reaching for an over-the-counter remedy, try a natural approach. A recent review suggests that several herbs can ease both acute and chronic sinus problems.

Bromelain relieves discomfort by reducing inflammation in your nose and sinuses. The typical dose is 320 mg. two to three times per day. Since bromelain can cause stomach upset, make sure you take it with meals – and avoid it altogether if you have digestive conditions like a peptic ulcer. You should also talk with your doctor before taking this enzyme if you are also taking antibiotics or blood-thinning medications.

Another herb to have on hand is Eucalyptus. But, unlike bromelain, you won’t want to take this one internally. Instead, get a bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. According to one study, a major ingredient of eucalyptus oil relieves inflammation of the sinuses. It also clears nasal congestion. Simply apply a few drops of the essential oil to a cotton ball and inhale. You can also add one-half teaspoon to a half-cup of vegetable oil for a highly effective chest rub.

Used together, these two natural remedies will have you celebrating instead of suffering this spring!

***

Refere

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

I’m sure you’ve seen the commercials for those “magic” diet pills that banish belly fat, supercharge your metabolism or cut food cravings. And then there are the testimonials by anorexic spokespeople swearing by this or that eating plan.

Personally, these ads drive me crazy. But they speak to an underlying truth: Obesity has become a critical health problem.

The dramatic rise in the number of overweight and obese Americans has lead to a catastrophic rise in diabetes, cardiovascular disease and many other serious health problems. At the root of these problems is a condition known as insulin resistance, in which the insulin receptors no longer work efficiently. The body compensates for this by producing higher than normal amounts of insulin. In the early stages this can cause excess weight gain that typically shows up around the belly. This additional weight in turn makes insulin resistance worse.

Resisting the Trend

It’s estimated that as many as 40 percent of adults and an ever increasing number of children have some degree of insulin resistance. You might even be one of them.

Fortunately, losing weight can play an important role in correcting insulin resistance, even if you’re in the advanced stages of diabetes. The challenge, however, is to lose weight without making the condition worse. Fad diets based on extreme calorie restriction can sometimes be the very cause of insulin resistance. Instead of trying the latest diet craze, an ideal weight loss plan keeps your blood sugar levels on an even keel as you gradually take off the pounds.

Calories aren’t the only concern. Poor eating habits that include an overabundance of high glycemic index foods like white bread and sugary sodas can cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly then sharply decline. This glucose roller-coaster can lead to a repetitive cycle of uncontrollable hunger, excessive cravings for carbohydrates and the increased conversion of blood glucose into stored fat. This type of eating can also affect mood and energy levels, making you cranky and fatigued.

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This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

Simply stated, these phytonutrients represent a huge step beyond beta sitosterol, saw palmetto, and other phytosterols alone.

Simply click HERE if you want to have fast prostate relief...restful, uninterrupted sleep...no more constant "urges to go"...enhanced virility...and optimal prostate support for life.

Fit Foods

So what’s a safe way to lose weight and reduce your risk of insulin resistance? Following a Mediterranean diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy oils, nuts, fish and lean meat is a good way to start. Want more help? Research has also targeted some specific foods that can help keep your blood sugar levels on an even keel.

-Barley is a high-fiber, low GI food that satisfies hunger and fights fatigue because the body burns it very slowly. This tasty grain also won’t cause erratic blood sugar levels, which helps control cravings and over-eating. As an added bonus, barley is a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, making it beneficial to your digestive tract, cholesterol levels and possibly your immune system.

-Whey protein helps stabilize blood glucose levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This in turn reduces hunger by lowering insulin levels and making it easier for the body to burn fat. Whey protein also helps stimulate the release of two appetite-suppressing hormones. And it’s rich in leucine which helps preserve lean muscle tissue while promoting fat loss. Adding whey protein to a mid-day snack or beverage provides healthy energy and may help control food intake at the next meal.

-Flax provides both fiber and essential fatty acids (EFAs). Consuming a certain amount of dietary fat, in the form of EFAs, acts like the ignition for burning calories and maintaining metabolic processes. It also helps to give you that “satisfied” feeling when you have finished eating a meal.

-Green Tea increases metabolism, burns fat and balance blood glucose levels.

This tasty drink also helps aid weight loss by increasing your metabolic rate, causing greater calorie burn. Plus it’s a powerful antioxidant that may help ward off cancer.

Green tea may also be useful as a glucose regulator, slowing the rise in blood sugar following a meal. It does this by slowing the action of a particular digestive enzyme called amylase. This enzyme is pivotal in the breakdown of carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar levels to soar after eating.

Safer Supplements

There is increasing evidence that including the following key supplements as part of your weight loss plan can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. These supplements will also help you maintain more sensible eating. And you’ll experience less fat storage, more energy and better success achieving your optimal body weight.

-Chromium promotes healthy insulin function and increased energy. It’s an essential trace mineral that helps the body process carbohydrates and fats. According to one study, the chromium you get from food is poorly absorbed – a problem since chromium levels decrease with age. Supplements containing 200-1,000 mcg. of chromium picolinate taken daily safely improve blood glucose control.

-L-Carnitine is an amino acid that transports fat into the cells for burning. Which means, at least in theory, the more L-carnitine = the more fat burned. It’s not a far-fetched concept. Recent scientific evidence shows that increased levels of carnitine really do lead to increased fat burning.

-Banaba is a botanical extract from Southeast Asia that supports healthy blood glucose levels. Corosolic acid, a triterpenoid found in the leaves, helps regulate blood sugar by stimulating glucose uptake. This blood sugar lowering effect is similar to that of insulin, which induces glucose transport from the blood into body cells.

One Last Thing …

If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ve probably switched from regular to diet sodas and stocked up on no-calorie sweeteners. But scientists at Purdue University say that using an artificial sweetener instead of sugar may make it tougher, not easier, to lose weight.

During their animal study, rats were fed either yogurt sweetened with natural sugar or yogurt spiked with saccharin. It turns out that the artificial sweetener caused the rats to consume more calories and put on more weight and body fat. While that might seem counterintuitive, the researchers said that sweet foods may prompt the body to get ready to take in a lot of calories, but when sweetness in the form of artificial sweeteners is not followed by a large amount of calories, the body gets confused, which may lead to eating more or expending less energy than normal. Other artificial sweeteners like aspartame could have similar effects.

So if you’re watching your weight, forget fake sweeteners. Drink plenty of water, snack on sweet, juicy fruit and treat yourself to an ounce of chocolate now and again. You’ll never miss those unhealthy chemical sweeteners.

This Just In …

With spring on our doorstep and the fickle weather it brings, you may be suffering from sinus pain. Instead of reaching for an over-the-counter remedy, try a natural approach. A recent review suggests that several herbs can ease both acute and chronic sinus problems.

Bromelain relieves discomfort by reducing inflammation in your nose and sinuses. The typical dose is 320 mg. two to three times per day. Since bromelain can cause stomach upset, make sure you take it with meals – and avoid it altogether if you have digestive conditions like a peptic ulcer. You should also talk with your doctor before taking this enzyme if you are also taking antibiotics or blood-thinning medications.

Another herb to have on hand is Eucalyptus. But, unlike bromelain, you won’t want to take this one internally. Instead, get a bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. According to one study, a major ingredient of eucalyptus oil relieves inflammation of the sinuses. It also clears nasal congestion. Simply apply a few drops of the essential oil to a cotton ball and inhale. You can also add one-half teaspoon to a half-cup of vegetable oil for a highly effective chest rub.

Used together, these two natural remedies will have you celebrating instead of suffering this spring!

References:

“A scientific review: the role of chromium in insulin resistance.” Diabetes Education. 2004; Suppl:2-14.

Bulló M, Casas-Agustench P, Amigó-Correig P, et al. “Inflammation, obesity and comorbidities: the role of diet.” Public Health and Nutrition. 2007;10:1164-1172.

Guo R, Canter PH, Ernst E. “Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review.” Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. 2006;135:496-506.

Klein G, Kim J, Himmeldirk K, et al. “Antidiabetes and Anti-obesity Activity of Lagerstroemia speciosa.” Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2007;4:401-407.

Wutzke KD, Lorenz H. “The effect of l-carnitine on fat oxidation, protein turnover, and body composition in slightly overweight subjects.” Metabolism. 2004;53:1002-1006.

nces:

“A scientific review: the role of chromium in insulin resistance.” Diabetes Education. 2004; Suppl:2-14.

Bulló M, Casas-Agustench P, Amigó-Correig P, et al. “Inflammation, obesity and comorbidities: the role of diet.” Public Health and Nutrition. 2007;10:1164-1172.

Guo R, Canter PH, Ernst E. “Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review.” Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. 2006;135:496-506.

Klein G, Kim J, Himmeldirk K, et al. “Antidiabetes and Anti-obesity Activity of Lagerstroemia speciosa.” Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2007;4:401-407.

Wutzke KD, Lorenz H. “The effect of l-carnitine on fat oxidation, protein turnover, and body composition in slightly overweight subjects.” Metabolism. 2004;53:1002-1006.

Contaminants in Waste and Bottled Water

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

When I was growing up, my mother always stressed the importance of drinking water. If she’d had a mantra, it would have been “eight glasses a day.” Did I listen? Of course not.

In fact, water wasn’t high on my list of priorities until just a few years ago when my doctor told me that I was showing signs of dehydration. This time I listened – and started drinking water. Actually, I drank so much water that my husband actually thought about buying stock in Sparkletts. I guess I was making up for lost time.

Then last year, I came across a study saying that the old 8 x 8 (eight eight-ounce glasses a day) maxim was a washout. According to Dr. Heinz Valtin, the Dartmouth researcher who conducted the study review, that advice was just a national myth with no basis in fact. He went on to say that – well gee, you really don’t need water at all – juice, coffee or soda work just as well!

Now I had heard it all.

When I told my mom about the study, she said it was ludicrous. That everybody knows you need at least 64 ounces of water a day. I figured that the truth was somewhere between Dr. Valtin and my mother – and I was pretty sure that the odds were in favor of mom. But just to be sure, I checked with Elson Haas, M.D.

A Drinking Problem

One of Dr. Haas’ favorite sayings is “dilution is the solution to inner pollution.” But even he admits that scientific study on the subject is lacking. That said, he also points out just how important water is to good health.

According to Dr. Haas, or bodies are at least 60 percent water. It’s the primary component of all the bodily fluids — blood, lymph, urine, tears and sweat. But there’s more:

•Water is involved in almost every bodily function, including digestion, the absorption of nutrients and the elimination of wastes, to name just a few.

•Water carries the electrolytes; mineral salts that help convey electrical currents in the body. The major minerals that make up these salts are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chloride.

•Water lubricates our joints and connective tissue, helps regulate our body temperature, and protects and cushions our vital organs.

Without water, none of these critical functions could occur. I should also mention that water is the best way to avoid problems like constipation and dry skin.

Say “When”

Since there aren’t any studies that give us a quantitative answer to the amount of water we really need, how do we know when we’re getting enough? Dr. Haas says that the amount is based on a number of factors: our size, our activity level and the climate or temperature.

We lose water daily through our skin, urine, bowels and lungs (as water vapor in the air). About half of our water losses can be replaced with the water content in our food. The remaining half requires specific fluid intake, primarily from drinking good water. Contrary to what Dr. Valtin says, caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, colas) and alcoholic beverages don’t count because they act like diuretics in the body, increasing the amount of fluid lost.

According to Dr. Haas, the average human requirement is about three quarts of water a day, including food and beverages. An inactive person in a cool climate may need less, while an athlete training in the desert will need much more. People who eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, which are high in water content, will require less drinking water than people who eat a diet high in meats and fats, which are more concentrated and require additional water to help utilize them. In addition to a healthy diet containing fresh fruits and vegetables, Dr Haas recommends drinking at least one-and-a-half to two quarts of water a day. That’s 60 to 80 ounces – or at least eight eight-ounce glasses a day.

I hate to say it but Mom, you were right all along.

One Last Thing …

Now that that’s settled, should you go to the tap and get a nice tall glass of municipal water? Probably not. Despite the Safe Drinking Water Act, which has been in place since 1974, the water that comes from municipal systems and wells can contain a number of contaminants, including pathogens like cryptosporidium, bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal disease. That seemingly benign glass of water you just drew from the tap may also contain lead, cadmium, mercury or arsenic. It can also be a source of hidden chemicals, including pesticides and substances used to manufacture plastics and personal care products. A recent survey by the U.S. Geological Survey even found measurable amounts of prescription drugs in our water.

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  • Love handles and a pot belly
  • Romance that isn't what it used to
  • Forgetfulness and inattention
  • Low (or no) strength and endurance
  • A sex drive that's shifted into neutral...or worse

If so...you may have Mature Male Burnout.  Click here to discover more about this unique condition and what you can do about it.

Then there are the chemicals cities add to the public’s water deliberately – chlorine and fluoride. In 1974, studies began surfacing which showed that, when chlorine reacts with naturally occurring organic matter, a group of toxic byproducts called trihalomethanes (THMs) are created. THMs have been associated with rectal and bladder cancers, as well as birth defects. Fluoride is a byproduct of aluminum, and dentists have sworn for years that it’s the best thing since sliced bread to prevent tooth decay. But some scientists, environmentalists and consumer groups point out that fluoride is a carcinogen and its addition to municipal water is irrational and dangerous.

Since virtually all municipal and well water harbors some contaminants, the healthiest way to hydrate is by drinking bottled water. But some bottled water is nothing more than spruced-up municipal water. Instead of reaching for a bottle brought to you by Coke or Pepsi, look for water that has been steam-distilled. Distilling water in this way removes bacteria, viruses, chemicals and pollutants. Better yet, once you drink it, the pure distilled water captures inorganic minerals rejected by the cells and tissues and helps remove them from the body.

So find a good source of bottled water and drink up. And forget the naysayers. Like most flash-in-the-pan claims, this one will dry up and blow away too.

This Just In …

I love to be the bearer of good news. So when I read a study about tomatoes and heart health, I just had to share it with you. Unfortunately, the mainstream media beat me to it. And wouldn’t you know it – they got it all wrong.

According to the nightly news, if you want to boost heart health – eat pizza! Yep, pizza. You know, the pie made from a refined-flour crust and topped with artery-clogging cheese. Hmmm – they didn’t mention pepperoni. I wonder if it’s optional.

Well, don’t get too excited. Pizza still isn’t a health food. What the study actually said was that tomatoes and tomato-based foods (like salsa, spaghetti sauce and yes, pizza sauce) could lower the risk of heart disease. So now we know how they jumped to the pizza conclusion. But, it’s too bad they didn’t report the actual study, because in my book, it’s pretty impressive on its own.

The Harvard study reviewed the diets of 40,000 women from an ongoing women’s health study started 11 years ago. The researchers found women who consumed seven or more servings of tomato-based foods a week had an almost 30 percent reduction in risk for cardiovascular disease compared with women who consumed less than one and one-half servings a week.

If you’re anything like me, you might think it’s because tomatoes are a rich source of the antioxidant lycopene. Nope. The results of the report showed lycopene itself doesn’t significantly reduce the risk for heart disease. So it’s something else hidden away in tomatoes. While science may never know the exact compound responsible for the findings, it’s enough to know that there’s one more delicious way to guard against cardiovascular disease.

References:

Bove F, et al. “Drinking water contaminants and adverse pregnancy outcomes: a review.” Environmental Health Perspectives. 2002; 110 Suppl 1:61-74.

George MH, et al. “Carcinogenicity of bromodichloromethane administered in drinking water to Male F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 mice.” International Journal of Toxicology. 2002; 21:219-230.

Glasser F. “US Environmental Protection Agency reveals that tens of millions of Americans may be at risk from fluoridated drinking water.” http://home.att.net/~gtigerclaw/EPAresponse.html.

Rawe J. “Tomatoes may reduce risk of heart disease by 30 percent.” University Wire. 29 July 2003.

Valtin H. “Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.” Really? Is there scientific evidence for “8 x 8?” American Journal of Physiology. 2002; 283:R993-1004.

Bladder Problems

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

Bladder problems got you down?

Have you ever laughed so hard you peed? Losing control of your bladder is embarrassing, uncomfortable, and, well, wet. It’s also surprisingly common. In fact, incontinence affects 10 to 30 percent of women 64 and younger, says the National Women’s Health Resource Center.

The World's Quickest Solution for Ending Prostate and Urinary Misery

This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

Simply stated, these phytonutrients represent a huge step beyond beta sitosterol, saw palmetto, and other phytosterols alone.

Simply click HERE if you want to have fast prostate relief...restful, uninterrupted sleep...no more constant "urges to go"...enhanced virility...and optimal prostate support for life.

Even if your bladder is behaving now, it may betray you later. About 25 percent of women will experience involuntary urinary leakage and bladder problems at some point in their lives. Luckily, those little accidents when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise are problems you can solve and even prevent. Continue reading →

Cortisol For Skin Care and Boosting your Health

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

Are you run down and stressed out? Do you have trouble getting up in the morning? Need a caffeine fix to keep going? Join the club! The hectic pace of modern life has most of us feeling frazzled. But constant stress could end up seriously compromising your body’s natural ability to reenergize – a condition known as adrenal fatigue.

Although stress affects everyone in different ways, most people endure two to five years of a high-pressure lifestyle before reaching adrenal fatigue. The bad news? It can take months, even years, to recover.

Adrenals 101

The adrenal glands (also known as suprarenal glands) sit on top of the kidneys and rush all of your body’s resources into “fight or flight” mode by increasing the production of cortisol and adrenaline. When healthy, your adrenals can instantly increase your heart rate and blood pressure, release your energy stores for immediate use, slow your digestion and sharpen your senses.

But if stress becomes the norm, the adrenal glands are constantly on high alert. The result is a constant flood of stress hormones. One of these hormones, cortisol, helps us meet stressful challenges by converting proteins into energy, releasing glycogen and counteracting inflammation. For a short time, that’s okay. But at sustained high levels, cortisol gradually tears your body down and depletes your energy reserves.

Long-term, high cortisol levels destroy healthy muscle and bone, slow down healing and normal cell regeneration, impair digestion, metabolism and mental function, interfere with healthy endocrine function and weaken your immune system. Fortunately, simple tweaks to your self-care regimen can work wonders in reigning in cortisol and boosting your adrenal health.

Avoid Diet Disasters

When you are stressed out, the need for nutrients is much greater. Vitamins C is particularly critical for adrenal health. Studies show that vitamin C can influence cortisol, inducing an anti-inflammatory response to prolonged exercise and stress. In human studies, 3,000 mg. of vitamin C daily counteracted a rise in blood pressure, cortisol and the subjective response to acute psychological stress. To make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of vitamin C, take 1,000 to 2,000 mg. of supplemental vitamin C and eat plenty of foods rich in this important vitamin. Sweet red peppers, citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, collards, mustard greens, broccoli, spinach and strawberries are all wonderful sources of vitamin C.

Taking a B-complex is also important since it contains Vitamin B6, niacin and other B vitamins needed as co-factors in enzymatic pathways and to restore proper adrenal functioning. Look for a supplement containing 50 to 100 mg. of each of the B vitamins. And don’t forget B-rich foods like egg yolks, avocados, cashews, peanuts, brown rice, soybeans, lentils and broccoli.

But adding nutrients is only part of the solution. Subtracting certain types of food from your diet can also help protect your adrenal glands. Case in point: Simple carbohydrates, which when consumed in excessive amounts, stress the adrenals by sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster.

When your blood sugar goes up and down in response to eating sugar and refined carbs, your adrenals have to kick in to help your body function. Because the body perceives low blood sugar as a sign of starvation, it turns to the adrenal glands to normalize blood sugar levels by pumping out more cortisol and adrenaline. Along with limiting the amount of refined carbohydrates you consume, keep your blood sugar on an even keel by eating five or six small meals instead of three large meals daily.

Caffeine is another culprit that can lead to adrenal burnout. Using caffeine to prop up your body overstimulates the adrenals — sometimes to the point that they eventually fail. Tame your caffeine consumption by switching to less-caffeinated, antioxidant-rich green or white tea.

Adapt with Herbs

Adaptogens are a class of herbs that help boost our ability to deal with stress, whether it be physical or mental. They are great for increasing your energy levels and enhancing your mental and physical performance. But rather than overstimulating the adrenals, like caffeine does, adaptogens actually support proper function and help the adrenals produce cortisol in natural patterns.

Try taking 300 to 350 mg. of rhodiola, an herb which was found to reduce fatigue in 56 physicians on night duty in a study published in Phytomedicine. Look for a supplement that has been standardized to 0.8% salidrosides and 0.8% rosavins. Ginseng is another adaptogen that has been shown to decrease cortisol levels and help the body deal with chronic stress. Opt for a standardized extract containing four to five percent ginsenosides and take 100 to 200 mg. daily.

Are You Suffering From...

  • Love handles and a pot belly
  • Romance that isn't what it used to
  • Forgetfulness and inattention
  • Low (or no) strength and endurance
  • A sex drive that's shifted into neutral...or worse

If so...you may have Mature Male Burnout.  Click here to discover more about this unique condition and what you can do about it.

While not an herb, phosphatidyleserine (PS) is another nutritional supplement that can support healthy adrenal glands. PS is a phospholipid that is a structural component of the biological membranes in animals and plants. In studies, supplemental PS has been shown to improve mood and blunt the release of cortisol in response to physical stress. The recommended dosage is 300 mg. per day.

One Last Thing …

The most important part of treating adrenal fatigue is lifestyle modification. Managing overall stress is key, so try to incorporate daily tension-melting practices, such as deep breathing, meditation or even a long walk with your dog. Yoga may be particularly soothing, according to a 2003 study from Thomas Jefferson University’s Center for Integrative Medicine. In examining 16 men and women with no past yoga experience, researchers found that a single, one-hour yoga session significantly lowered blood cortisol levels. No time for yoga? Even a five-minute timeout in the middle of a chaotic day can help your adrenals heal.

This Just In …

A couple of days ago, a reader named John asked if there was anything new on the hypertension front. Well, there is – and it doesn’t come from your pharmacist.

According to a recent study by Greek researchers, flaxseed oil may help lower blood pressure. During their 12 week study of 59 men, half were given eight grams (a little more than half a tablespoon) daily of flaxseed oil. The other half were given safflower oil. Those getting the flaxseed oil experienced a clinically significant three to six percent reduction in their blood pressure readings.

Flaxseed oil is a rich source of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). The beneficial effect on blood pressure may be courtesy of prostaglandins, metabolites of ALA that regulate blood pressure as well as salt and water balance in the body.

While you can take a flaxseed oil capsule, you can also add this mild oil to salad dressing or smoothies. Just make sure you don’t cook with it since heat destroys the beneficial properties – and keep it in the fridge to prevent rancidity.

References:

Darbinyan V, Kteyan A, Panossian A, et al. “Rhodiola rosea in stress induced fatigue–a double blind cross-over study of a standardized extract SHR-5 with a repeated low-dose regimen on the mental performance of healthy physicians during night duty.” Phytomedicine. 2000;7:365-371.

“Feeling Stressed? Try Yoga.” The Endocrine Society. 2003. www.endo-society.org

Paschos GK, Magkos F, Panagiotakos DB, et al. “Dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil lowers blood pressure in dyslipidaemic patients.” European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2007;61:1201-1206.

Rai D, Bhatia G, Sen T, et al. “Anti-stress effects of Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng: a comparative study.” Journal of Pharmacological Sciences. 2003;93:458-464.

Heartburn and GERD Prevention

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

For many of us, our meals come with an unwanted side order: heartburn. So we avoid common triggers like onions and spicy foods hoping to prevent the burning pain caused by stomach acid rising up into our esophagus. But according to a surprising new review by investigators at Stanford University, what you eat and drink has absolutely no effect on your heartburn symptoms.

Of course, other studies have found that a variety of diet and lifestyle changes can help prevent heartburn and effectively ease symptoms once they’ve hit. One recent study of 371 volunteers found that eating fat, especially saturated fat, were more likely to suffer from symptoms – especially if they were overweight. On the flip side, the researchers found that those eating a fiber-rich, low-fat diet rarely experienced heartburn. So who’s right? And is this new review just a ploy to boost sales of pharmaceutical heartburn remedies?

Heartburn 101

While almost everyone has heartburn now and then, 44 percent of Americans experience symptoms at least once a month. Sufferers describe heartburn as a burning pain behind the breastbone that may move up toward the neck and throat, and is sometimes accompanied by a bitter or acidic taste in the back of the mouth. When heartburn has you in its grip, the symptoms can be so severe they even mimic a heart attack. But, no matter how it feels, if you suffer from heartburn at least once a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, a disorder that allows the contents of the stomach to flow back up into the esophagus.

The problem with GERD is that this stomach acid can erode the lining of the esophagus in about five percent of those with the condition and, if left untreated, may lead to esophageal cancer. GERD can also aggravate asthma symptoms or cause a chronic cough, sore throat or laryngitis.

But, even if you don’t have GERD, ordinary heartburn is no picnic. Sure you can quench the fire with over-the-counter antacid, but long-tern use can alter bowel habits, leading to diarrhea or constipation. Even worse, the overuse of calcium-containing antacids like Tums can lead to kidney stones.

What about proton-pump inhibitors like Nexium or Prilosec? It turns out that these popular drugs increase the risk of hip fractures. A new University of Pennsylvania study shows that people over the age of 50 who take the standard dose of a proton-pump inhibitor for more than one year have a 44 percent higher risk of breaking a hip. Taking higher-than-normal doses dramatically increases the risk. In fact, long-term, high-dose use of these drugs ups the risk of hip fracture by a whopping 245 percent!

Feed the Fire

Despite the latest research that questions whether diet and lifestyle changes can actually help treat heartburn, these tactics still remain the first line of defense against symptoms. A widely acknowledged aggravator is extra weight since it puts pressure on the stomach and relaxes the esophagus. Even being in the high range of your normal weight can increase your risk of heartburn by about 40 percent.

When it comes to food triggers, the key is to find out what aggravates your heartburn – and then avoid it. Some foods, like chocolate, peppermint, coffee and alcohol, relax the lower part of the esophagus, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus; Other foods commonly linked to heartburn include garlic, onions, tomato-based foods, spicy foods and fatty foods. Start by eliminating these foods and see if it helps. Keep a food journal so you get an accurate picture of what foods help and what hurts. If these common foods aren’t the culprit, check the size of your portions since large meals put pressure on your stomach and can prompt an attack..

If heartburn is keeping you up at night, make sure you don’t eat within three hours of going to bed. You can also try sleeping on your left side. Research suggests that people who sleep on their left-side suffer less nighttime heartburn. Sleeping on an incline can also ease symptoms. Many nutritionists recommend using blocks to raise the head of your bed six inches.

One Last Thing …

You’ve eliminated your personal heartburn triggers, eating fewer fatty foods and watching your portion size, but still the burn continues. It’s time for extra help.

Licorice is an effective alternative to antacids. Unlike drugs which inhibit acid production, licorice works by stimulating the stomach’s natural protective mechanism. Specifically, this soothing herb protects the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract by increasing the production of mucin, a compound that guards against the adverse effects of stomach acid. Licorice has also been shown to encourage the formation of mucosal cells because of its ability to increase blood flow to mucosal tissue.

How well does it work? One double-blind trial reported that people with significant stomach discomfort who took a licorice supplement showed an average improvement of 78 percent compared to only 34 percent of those taking a placebo. Other studies show that taking 760 mg. of licorice three times a day is just as effective as the popular prescription drug Tagamet. One word of caution though: make sure you get a licorice supplement that has had the glycyrrhizin removed. Glycyrrhizin, which occurs naturally in licorice root, has cortisone-like effects and can cause high blood pressure and water retention. Instead, look for chewable de-glycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) to avoid these side effects. Chew two 250 to 500 mg. DGL tablets at the onset of symptoms or 15 to 20 minutes before meals as a preventive measure.

Like most diseases, prevention is the best medicine. Following a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent heartburn. But if GERD is already present, dietary adjustments, exercise and soothing herbs can help make it manageable.

The World's Quickest Solution for Ending Prostate and Urinary Misery

This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

Simply stated, these phytonutrients represent a huge step beyond beta sitosterol, saw palmetto, and other phytosterols alone.

Simply click HERE if you want to have fast prostate relief...restful, uninterrupted sleep...no more constant "urges to go"...enhanced virility...and optimal prostate support for life.

This Just In …

I recently got interesting e-mail from a reader concerning infrared saunas. Frankly, I had never heard of this type of sauna, so I decided to investigate. Here’s what I found: Unlike conventional saunas which use heated steam, an infrared sauna heats its occupants with heaters that emit far infrared radiation. This infrared radiation, which is similar to the radiation produced by the sun, heats the skin directly without warming the air. Infrared sauna can benefit a number of conditions. According to a study at Nishi Kyusyu University in Japan , this type of sauna can relieve chronic pain. Other studies show that infrared sauna therapy can help chronic fatigue and may even improve chronic heart failure. It’s also a great way to detox your body because infrared radiant heat penetrates more deeply and stimulates the tissues involved in eliminating toxins from the body. According to some naturopathic doctors, repeated use of an infrared sauna slowly restores skin elimination. Toxic chemicals and metals can be removed faster than with any other method.

This type of sauna is safe for most people providing you follows a few simple rules. When starting out, remain inside no longer than 30 minutes at a time. After the sauna, rest lying or sitting for 10 minutes to help the body eliminate dead cells and other debris. Drink mineralized water before and after the sauna, and add extra sea salt or kelp granules to your diet to replace minerals lost through sweating. Make sure your bowels move regularly, as sauna therapy will increase elimination.

What about taking supplements after a vigorous sauna? It can be a good idea, especially if you take a multi-vitamin multi-mineral supplement. You might also want to take detoxifying herbs like milk thistle or artichoke leaf to enhance the effects of the sauna. Just refrain from taking supplements like cascara or senna that act like laxatives.

There are also some precautions: Use the sauna with supervision if you have a chronic condition – and check with your doctor is you have multiple sclerosis, hyperthyroidism, hypertension or a serious heart condition. And pregnant women should never, ever, use any type of sauna.

Saunas can be a wonderful way to detoxify and renew your body from the inside out. And now that I’ve discovered the health benefits of infrared saunas, all I can say is, sign me up!

References:

El-Serag HB, Satia JA, Rabeneck L. “Dietary intake and the risks of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a cross sectional study in volunteers.” Gut. 2005;54:11-17.

Goso Y, Ogata Y, Ishihara K, Hotta K. “Effects of traditional herbal medicine on gastric acid.” Biochemistry & Physiology. 1996;113C:17–21.

Kaltenbach T, Crockett S, Gerson LB. “Are lifestyle measures effective in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease? An evidence-based approach.” Archives of Internal Medicine. 2006;166:965-71.

Masuda A, Koga Y, Hattanmaru M, et al. “The effects of repeated thermal therapy for patients with chronic pain.” Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics. 2005;74:288-294.

Reed PI, Davies WA. Controlled trial of a carbenoxolone/alginate antacid combination in reflux oesophagitis. Current Medical Research Opinion 1978;5:637–644.

Yang Y, Lewis JD, Epstein S, et al. “Long-term Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy and Risk of Hip Fracture.” Journal of the American Medical Association. 2006;296:2947-2953.

Preventing Cataracts with Tumeric, Curcumin, Lutein, and More

By Bonnie Jenkins, Advanced Natural Medicine

A few weeks ago, my mom called me up in a panic. It seems that, when she woke up that morning and reached over to shut off the alarm clock, half of the numbers on the clock were blurred beyond recognition! It was like a veil had fallen over her eyes during the night. At my urging, she went to see the ophthalmologist who broke the bad news: cataracts.

If you’ve begun seeing colored halos, it’s not a flashback to the psychedelic 60’s. Like my mom, you may be among the 4 million Americans with cataracts. Marked by blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light, fading of colors, poor night vision and halos around lights, cataracts are the leading cause of decreased vision in older Americans and the No. 1 cause of blindness worldwide.

Which is why a new study linking tumeric to a reduced risk of cataracts is so exciting.

A Guessing Game

Nobody really knows what causes cataracts, but there are plenty of theories. The damage that occurs to the lens and the subsequent clouding may be due to advancing age, heredity, an injury or disease, cigarette smoking or the use of certain medications.

One theory that’s gotten a lot of attention over the past few years is the sunshine theory. More specifically, a growing number of scientists believe that sunlight increases the risk of developing cataracts. In one population-based study of more than 2,500 adults, age 64 to 84, by Johns Hopkins University, researchers found that those subjects with the greatest exposure to the sun had a 60 percent higher chance of developing cataracts. But, don’t think that donning a pair of shades will solve the problem. French researchers have recently deflated the belief that regular sunglass can protect against the formation of cataracts. Instead, most ophthalmologists now recommend getting a pair of sunglasses coated with a special UVA/UVB protectant.

Whatever the cause, conventional treatments aren’t all that effective. In the beginning stages, a lot of doctors recommend magnifying lenses or stronger eyeglasses to compensate for the vision problems caused by cataracts. Once you can no longer see well enough to accomplish daily activities, you doctor may recommend surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens. In fact, cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure for people over 65. But the problem many people have with surgery is that the lens capsule that remains in the eye after the operation eventually turns cloudy, causing additional loss of vision.

The Curcumin Connection

The best way to avoid surgery is by preventing cataracts in the first place – and that’s where this new study comes in. In the study, researchers from the National Institute of Nutrition in Hyderabad, India, fed three groups of rats diets containing various amounts of curcumin. Two other groups were fed a standard diet as controls. After four weeks, the researchers found that curcurmin boosted antioxidant levels and inhibited lipid peroxidation. While this effectively delayed the onset and development of cataracts, the researchers discovered that it only works with small doses. In other words, more isn’t better.

Curcurmin supplements are available – and are often used as an alternative for cancer prevention and treatment. But if you’re looking to avoid cataracts, it’s likely the supplements will provide too large a dose. Instead, many nutritionists recommend hitting the spice rack since curcumin is the active ingredient in the curry spice tumeric.

Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Asian and Indian cookery and is a staple in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Most of the nutritionists I’ve talked with suggest consuming one-quarter teaspoon every day to ward off cataracts, and I find the easiest way to accomplish that is by adding it to whatever’s on the menu for dinner. Ground from dried curcumin, a rhizome of the ginger family, turmeric isn’t peppery – it’s mild-tasting and fairly inexpensive – so I toss a bit into spaghetti sauce, chili, stews, soups and even salad dressings.

Lifting the Cloud

While the Indian study adds another piece to the cataract puzzle, it doesn’t give us the whole picture. Researchers have also linked the depletion of several key nutrients to the formation of cataracts. Here’s how it works: as you age, the cumulative effects of sun exposure and other lifestyle choices cause several biochemical changes to occur in the eye’s lens, including decreased levels of the key antioxidants vitamin C and glutathione, increased oxidation, loss of amino acids and decreased lens metabolism.

Several studies suggest that vitamins C and E might protect against the development and progression of cataracts. More than half of the observational studies done reported a reduced risk of cataracts among people who have a higher dietary intake of the vitamins. Long-term use of vitamin C and E supplements (10 years or more) also showed a reduction in the risk of cataracts.

You’ve probably also heard about lutein, a carotinoid that provides antioxidant protection against cataracts. According to recent research, lutein may act as a filter to protect the macula from potentially damaging ultra-violet light. In one clinical trial, 17 cataract patients were randomly divided into three groups receiving either 15 mg. of lutein, 100 mg. of vitamin E or a placebo three times a week for up to two years. By the end of the study, those taking the lutein supplements experienced significant improvement in their eyesight, especially in visual acutity and glare sensitivity. No such improvement was seen in the other two groups.

Admittedly, this was an extremely small study and the amount of vitamin E was far too small to make any difference. But it does point out just how powerful lutein is in the fight against cataracts.

But while lutein is critical to eye health, there’s another, equally important carotinoid that can help prevent cararacts. If you read the e-bulletin “Keeping an eye on health” (6/2/03), you may remember a supplement called zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin works hand-in-hand with lutein to bolster eye health.

Three recent epidemiological trials have examined the correlation between dietary lutein and zeaxanthin and the risk of cataracts or cataract surgery. In the first, researchers conducting a five-year longitudinal follow-up of the Beaver Dam Eye Study found that subjects who consumed the most lutein and zeaxanthin had a significantly lower risk of cataracts compared to those with the lowest intakes. Another study analyzed prospective follow-up data from the Nurse’s Health Study and found that the higher the intake of lutein and zeaxanthin, the lower the chance of needing cataract surgery. The third study conducted an analysis of the data similar to that of the Nurses’s Health Study. In this study group, which was a subset from the Health Professional’s Follow-up Study, the investigators also found a statistically significant trend toward lower risk of surgery with higher lutein and zeaxanthin intake.

The World's Quickest Solution for Ending Prostate and Urinary Misery

This has recently been revealed to be one of the only real breakthroughs in prostate health.

The seeds of a strange fruit (sometimes called "Chinese Apples") hold powerful phytonutrients that are a revolution in prostate health.

In fact, UCLA and Veterans Administration research have now proved this to be true.

Not only that, but it may be the worlds quickest solution for ending prostate misery.

Simply stated, these phytonutrients represent a huge step beyond beta sitosterol, saw palmetto, and other phytosterols alone.

Simply click HERE if you want to have fast prostate relief...restful, uninterrupted sleep...no more constant "urges to go"...enhanced virility...and optimal prostate support for life.

So, what’s the best way to get these eye-friendly nutrients? Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, green peppers and tomatoes. Vitamin E can be found in most nuts and seeds as well as most vegetable oils. Lutein and zeaxanthin are abundant in green leafy vegetables like kale, collard greens and spinach and can also be found in corn, peas, orange peppers and tangerines.

But food alone probably won’t provide enough of these nutrients to effectively prevent cataracts. To make sure you’re getting the amount needed, it’s a good idea to take supplements. James Balch, MD, the author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, recommends taking 2,000 mg. of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E and a carotenoid complex containing both lutein and zeaxanthin on a daily basis.

One Last Thing …

I can’t stress the importance of getting an annual eye exam enough. If you experience any of the symptoms I’ve mentioned above – blurred or hazy vision, the appearance of spots in front of the eyes, increased sensitivity to glare, the feeling of having a film over the eyes or even a temporary improvement in near vision – a cataract may be forming. It’s critical that you have a qualified eye care professional diagnose the problem. Fortunately, my mom did and was able to catch her cataracts long before surgery was necessary. While she’s being monitored by her ophthalmologist, she’s also started taking the antioxidants and carotenoids I’ve told you about. It’s only been six weeks or so, but both she and her doctor are already noticing the difference.

This Just In …

My father-in-law has kidney disease so, needless to say, I was excited to read a new study in the Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine which found that supplementing with coenzyme Q10 can improve kidney function and reduce the need for dialysis in people with severe, chronic kidney (renal) failure.

In the study, 97 people with chronic renal failure were randomly assigned to receive a placebo or 60 mg. of CoQ10 three times per day for 12 weeks. Among the 45 participants who were already receiving dialysis, supplementation with CoQ10 resulted in an improvement in various measures of kidney function, including serum creatinine (29 percent improvement) and blood urea nitrogen (9 percent improvement). In contrast, kidney function tended to worsen in the placebo group, and the differences between CoQ10 and placebo were statistically significant. CoQ10 also produced significant improvements relative to placebo among the participants who weren’t receiving dialysis. By the end of the study, the number of people requiring dialysis had decreased from 21 to 12 in the CoQ10 group, but remained unchanged in the placebo group.

If you know someone undergoing dialysis, I’m sure you’ve seen just how debilitating it can be. So anything that could reduce the need for this treatment would truly be lifechanging. Please share this e-bulletin with anyone who might benefit from these findings, especially your doctor. This is the best news people with kidney failure have gotten in a very long time.

References:

Brown L, et al. “A prospective study carotenoid intake and risk of cataract extraction in US men.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1999; 70:517-524.

KaLuzny JJ. “Contemporary views on the pathogenesis and possible prophylaxis of age related cataracts.” Pol Merkuriusz Lek (Poland). 1997; 2:76-78.

Lyle BJ, et al. “Antioxidant intake and the risk of incident age-related nuclear cataracts in the Beaver Dam Eye Study.” American Journal of Epidemiology. 1999; 149:801-809.

Olmedilla B, et al. “Lutein, but not alpha-tocopherol, supplementation improves visual function in patients with age-related cataracts: a 2-y double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.” Nutrition. 2003; 19:21-24.

Singh RB, et al. “Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial of Coenzyme Q10 in Patients with End-stage Renal Failure.” Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine. 2003; 13:13-22.

Suryanarayana P, et al. “Effect of curcurmin on galactose-induced cataractogenesis in rats.” Molecular Vision. 2003; 9:223-230.