What causes headaches?

- by Dr. Jean Gibson, BioVeda of Fayetteville, AR

Headaches can be caused by several different things.  Some of these causes are sinus problems, eye problems, vascular irregularities, allergies, chemical sensitivities or hypoglycemia. The most common cause of headaches is cervico-genic in origin – meaning it originates in the cervical spine (your neck). Spinal subluxation can irritate spinal nerves causing your headaches.

Muscular tension in your neck caused by stress, chronic postural strain (such as sleeping on too many pillows or spending too much time looking down at your cell phone), or traumatic injury to your neck as in a whiplash can also cause headaches.

There are several things that can be done to help your headaches without drugs. First, you need a thorough examination and x-rays from a Doctor of Chiropractic. The doctor will then develop a specific treatment plan based on the findings from your examination and x-rays

The  adjustment for the spinal regions that are subluxated can be completed either using a hands on technique or a precision instrument. The adjustment restores normal motion to your cervical spine, decreases muscle spasms and decrease inflammation in your joints and muscles.

We can assess your nervous system for negative reactions to foods, airborne particulates, chemicals, or other substances and then use Neurological Stress Reduction Therapy (NSRT).

Acupuncture can also be used to relieve your headache by helping your body produce endorphins – natural pain relievers – and by balancing energy flow.

Three Things that Could be Making Your Allergies Worse

- by Dr. Andrew Moore, BioVeda of Alamo Heights, TX

Hormones: When European researchers studied 571 women between the ages of 28 and 58, they found that more than one in every 10 tested positive on a standard measure of breathing difficulty before or during the first days of their periods. For many women, allergies and asthma get more severe right before their periods, other research has shown. Taking the Pill may help, or you may want to tweak your allergy/asthma medication around your menstrual cycle to get good control.

Stress: It can make everything worse – even allergies: an Ohio State University College of Medicine study found that in people with seasonal allergies, even moderate stress caused a more sever reaction to an allergy skin test; in the study, subjects who were asked to make a short speech had red raised bumps that were 75 percent larger than they’d been during the “low stress” portion of the study. Stress appears to increase levels of cytokines, chemicals that play a role in the body’s allergic response

Alcohol: In a 2008 study of over 5,800 Danish women, those who had more than two drinks  a day were almost twice as likely as nondrinkers to report having nasal symptoms. No one’s quite sure why, but alcohol is a vasodilator, and it may be that if you have allergies, the swelling of your blood vessels makes your nose run even more. If you notice symptoms cranking up after the cocktail hour, skip the aperitif and go right to the appetizer.

Dr. Augustine on The Power of Biological Light in Healing – Mercola

- by Dr. James Augustine, BioVeda of Cerritos, CA

A Russian scientist, Pjotr Garjajev, has managed to intercept communication from a DNA molecule in the form of ultraviolet photons — in other words, light. This won’t come as a surprise to anyone who is familiar with the biophoton work of Fritz-Albert Popp.

It is well known that if you use UV light to destroy 99 percent of a cell, including its DNA, you can almost entirely repair the damage in a single day just by illuminating the cell with the same wavelength at a much weaker intensity.

This phenomenon is known as photorepair.

Following the work of Popp, scientists around the globe have begun to consider that your body’s communication system might be a complex network of resonance and frequency.

Read more…

The following is the second of a three part series that comprises a white paper report on Nutritional Protection Against Excitotoxins.  In this series we explore the importance of nutrition in protecting the body and brain from harmful toxins and free radicals.  To read the complete report on Nutritional Protection, click to download. This is for reference only, all rights are reserved.

Omega-3 Essential Fats:

The majority of fats ingested in the American diet consist of what are known as omega 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. This includes the essential fatty acids linoleic and linolenic acids, which are high in corn, cotton, soya, safflower, and sunflower oils. There is a popular trend that has been initiated by the American Heart Association, that promotes the use of polyunsaturate oils, there is growing evidence that these oils promote the generation of “bad” and “good” eicosanoids. In fact, there is great evidence that these oils may actually promote arteriosclerosis, and therefore, coronary artery disease and strokes.

Omega 3-fatty acids are derived primarily from coldwater fish. When the diet consists of a high proportion of these oils the generation of of arachidonic acid is significantly reduced, thereby reducing the generation of “bad” eicosanoids. Experimental animal and human studies have both shown a significant reduction in blood coagulation and, hence, in the incidence of both strokes and heart attacks.

We know that cell membranes are critical in receptor function, ion exchange, enzyme function, and nutrient entry into the cell. With aging, the cell membranes lose some of their fluidity and as a result these critical functions are impaired. It has been shown that omega 3-fatts can change the composition of the cell membranes in a short period of time so that the two major components of the membrane lipids are then comprised of the two types of oils found in fish oils, mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These particular oils inhibit the production of arachidonic acid from the cell membrane that triggers the production of eicosanoids, resulting in the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Many of these products are quite toxic to cells and can generate massive amounts of free radicals, leading to damage of the cell’s membranes as well as its genetic structure. As we have seen, this process plays a critical role in glutamate toxicity.

Bottom line is, is that omega 3-fats (Fish and Krill Oils) can block the production of “bad” type eicosanoids.

Other studies have shown that feeding omega 3-fatty acids to animals can significantly improve nerve conduction within the optic nerve. 2 While no one has measured it, one could safely assume that neural conduction within other parts of the nervous system would improve as well. It is important to only buy quality products free of pesticide residues and mercury. Some brands have high concentrations of omega 3- fats and should be preferred. It is recommended to always keep your capsules in the refrigerator. Omega 3-fats are unsaturated and subject to rancid destruction. Because of this, I would recommend taking at least 400iu of alpha-tocopherol per day with your capsules.

Read Part One: Nutritional Protection: Bad Eicosanoids

Stay tuned for the next part of the series, where we discuss free radicals on aging the brain in more detail. In the meantime, place your order for high quality BioVeda supplements that may help mitigate the potential damage that bad eicanosoids may be causing on your brain and body.

Krill Oil : Top Notch Antioxidant Protection — krill oil contains the unique antioxidant which may protect you from damaging free radicals. Past evidence has shown us that phospholipids are the safest and most effective carriers of DHA and EPA. Sadly though, standard fish oils and some low quality krill oil brands lack the phospholipid complex. Instead they contain omega-3 in the free-triglyceride form. This is less beneficial form. Phospholipids are the building blocks of your cell membranes; they regulate cellular transport and act like the “gate keepers of the cell.” This means that they protect the cell membrane from free radical attacks. If that’s not enough important facts, the most dominant phospholipid in krill oil is phosphatidyl choline, which is slightly composed of choline. Choline has been shown to be crucial in brain development, learning and memory. We also know that choline is important for fetal and infant brain development. Choline is the much needed neurotransmitter acetylcholne (this sends nerve signals to the brain) and trimethylglycine, a highly acclaimed liver protecter.

Fish Oil: EPA/ DHA is an essential fatty acid which stands for docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. This essential fatty acid is an Omega 3 fat, which is usually found in cold water fish. EPA/ DHA are highly unsaturated fat because they contain 6 and 5 double bond’s on their long structural chain. These polyunsaturated fats play a very important role with the function of our bodies. EPA and DHA are vital nutrients and may be taken to maintain healthy function of the following: Brain and Retina- DHA is a building block of tissue in the brain and retina of the eye. It helps with forming neural transmitters, such as phosphatidylserine, which is important for brain function. DHA is found in the retina of the eye and taking DHA may be necessary for maintaining healthy levels of DHA for normal eye function. Mega EPA/DHA is something everyone can benefit from!

Cell Manna: Complete Cellular Whole Food Support – Cell Manna is unlike any other product on the market due to its anti-aging benefits. With over 80 different ayurvedic and Korean herbs, this product’s key benefits are anti-aging, hormonal balance, and overall harmony. Cell Manna was created to provide the nutrients to the cells within the body. We call this micro nutrition which is used to feed specific cells you are targeting (ex. Liver, kidney, etc.). Taken by itself it is an overall rejuvenator for every cell within the body.

CoQ Support: CoQ10 has been available for decades, but now there is an amazing new form of Co Q10 called ubiquinol. Why is this so beneficial? CoQ10 is one of the key elements in the aging process and free radical production. These free radicals are oxygen atoms deficient in electrons that become highly reactive. This in turn causes potential damage to your tissues and DNA. If there was something you could do to limit the free radical production, then you could change the aging process. One nutrient that can help you do just that is Co Q10. The problem is your body requires the reduced form of Co Q10 (ubiquinol) to help you limit free radical production. If you’re younger than 25 years old, this isn’t an issue because your body is capable of converting Co Q10 from the oxidized to the reduced form. but, if you’re older, your body becomes more and more challenged to convert the oxidized Co Q10 to ubiquinol. Another very important reason for using a Co Q10 supplement is to help boost your body’s cellular energy production. Co Q10 helps facilitate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy “currency for all your cells. But if you’re over 25, you need the reduced form of Co Q10, ubiquinol, to efficiently do this. So even if you do your best to eat a healthy diet, your body’s ability to produce Co Q10 and convert it to ubiquinol declines over time.

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

The following is the first of a three part series that comprises a white paper report on Nutritional Protection Against Excitotoxins.  In this series we explore the importance of nutrition in protecting the body and brain from harmful toxins and free radicals.  To read the complete report on Nutritional Protection, click to download. This is for reference only, all rights are reserved.

Besides reducing the concentration of excitotoxins themselves, there are three major areas in which nutritional supplements may help in preventing damage by excitotoxins:

1. Reducing the production of bad eicosanoids
2. Reducing free radical damage
3. Improving energy production

What Are Eicosanoids?

• Eicosanoids are “super hormones” because they affect the synthesis of virtually every other hormone in one’s body. Eicosanoids are the body’s cellular check and balance system.
• Eicosanoids are controlled by dietary fat and insulin. In other words, eicosanoids can be controlled if one is consuming the correct amount of Omega-6 and Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (“PUFAs”) and controlling a good hormonal balance between insulin and glucagon. Eicosanoids come from the Greek word “eicosa” which means twenty. They are twenty carbon compounds which are powerful substances that influence 60 trillion cells in our body.
• Eicosanoids are either “good” or “bad” and have opposing actions. A BALANCE of these opposing actions spells good health whereas an imbalance spells disease.
• Decreases in insulin, loss of excess body fat and a state of wellness are all indicators relating to a good balance of eicosanoids and are all benefits of the ideal lifestyle.
• An imbalance of eicosanoids can be responsible for many reactions in our body including: allergies, asthma, arthritis, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, depression, chronic infection and Alzheimer’s disease.

What Stimulates the Production of “bad” Eicosanoids?

There is a large nutritional myth that we have to consume high amounts of carbohydrates to remain healthy. In fact, research now suggest just the opposite. Not only is most of our obesity related to carbohydrate excess, but many of the diseases that plague or society, such as arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease are related to this unhealthy practice.

Not only should we reduce our carbohydrate intake but we should also carefully select the type of carbohydrates we do eat. We often times hear the question, “Are all carbohydrates equal in terms of absorption from the gut?” To answer this simply, no!

Carbohydrates are absorbed at highly variable rates. Some are absorbed very rapidly, and others slowly. So why does this matter? The rate of absorption of carbohydrates determines the amount of insulin secreted in response from the pancreas. Carbohydrates rapidly absorbed by the gut flood the bloodstream with glucose (all carbohydrates are converted to glucose). To handle this immediate load of sugar the pancreas has to secrete a large amount of insulin. In over sixty million Americans there is a significant overshoot of insulin that, in turn, drives the blood sugar to levels that impair brain function. We experience this through intense hunger, anxiety, and tremulousness.

But, research now also shows us that excess insulin also stimulates the production of “bad” eicosanoids, which severely damage cells, including brain cells. We further know that hypoglycemia causes the brain to internally secrete excess amounts of glutamate, especially aspartate. 1 We have also seen these excitotoxins stimulate the production of “bad” eicosanoids. At least two major studies have shown that the majority of Alzheimer’s patients have hyperinsulinemia and hypoglycemia. The question that remains unanswered is, “Will changing our diet early in life prevent such neurodegenerative diseases?” Asking this makes it important to note that food should be viewed as an extremely powerful drug.

Another approach to decreasing the amounts of “bad” eicosanoids is by limiting its precursor substance, arachidonic acid, in the diet. This can be done by avoiding egg yolks, organ meats (Mostly deli meats) and red meats. It is also important that you maintain a low fat diet, especially saturated fats, since these fan produce a state of insulin resistance. Insulin resistance means that the cell will not respond to insulin even in high concentrations. This is thought to be the cause of adult onset diabetes (type II diabetes).

Stay tuned for the next part of the series, where we discuss the importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in combating the effects of free radicals on aging the brain.  In the meantime, place your order for high quality BioVeda  supplements that may help mitigate the potential damage that bad eicanosoids may be causing on your brain and body.

Krill Oil : Top Notch Antioxidant Protection — krill oil contains the unique antioxidant which may protect you from damaging free radicals. Past evidence has shown us that phospholipids are the safest and most effective carriers of DHA and EPA. Sadly though, standard fish oils and some low quality krill oil brands lack the phospholipid complex. Instead they contain omega-3 in the free-triglyceride form. This is less beneficial form. Phospholipids are the building blocks of your cell membranes; they regulate cellular transport and act like the “gate keepers of the cell.” This means that they protect the cell membrane from free radical attacks. If that’s not enough important facts, the most dominant phospholipid in krill oil is phosphatidyl choline, which is slightly composed of choline. Choline has been shown to be crucial in brain development, learning and memory. We also know that choline is important for fetal and infant brain development. Choline is the much needed neurotransmitter acetylcholne (this sends nerve signals to the brain) and trimethylglycine, a highly acclaimed liver protecter.

Fish Oil: EPA/ DHA is an essential fatty acid which stands for docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. This essential fatty acid is an Omega 3 fat, which is usually found in cold water fish. EPA/ DHA are highly unsaturated fat because they contain 6 and 5 double bond’s on their long structural chain. These polyunsaturated fats play a very important role with the function of our bodies. EPA and DHA are vital nutrients and may be taken to maintain healthy function of the following: Brain and Retina- DHA is a building block of tissue in the brain and retina of the eye. It helps with forming neural transmitters, such as phosphatidylserine, which is important for brain function. DHA is found in the retina of the eye and taking DHA may be necessary for maintaining healthy levels of DHA for normal eye function. Mega EPA/DHA is something everyone can benefit from!

Cell Manna: Complete Cellular Whole Food Support – Cell Manna is unlike any other product on the market due to its anti-aging benefits. With over 80 different ayurvedic and Korean herbs, this product’s key benefits are anti-aging, hormonal balance, and overall harmony. Cell Manna was created to provide the nutrients to the cells within the body. We call this micro nutrition which is used to feed specific cells you are targeting (ex. Liver, kidney, etc.). Taken by itself it is an overall rejuvenator for every cell within the body.

CoQ Support: CoQ10 has been available for decades, but now there is an amazing new form of Co Q10 called ubiquinol. Why is this so beneficial? CoQ10 is one of the key elements in the aging process and free radical production. These free radicals are oxygen atoms deficient in electrons that become highly reactive. This in turn causes potential damage to your tissues and DNA. If there was something you could do to limit the free radical production, then you could change the aging process. One nutrient that can help you do just that is Co Q10. The problem is your body requires the reduced form of Co Q10 (ubiquinol) to help you limit free radical production. If you’re younger than 25 years old, this isn’t an issue because your body is capable of converting Co Q10 from the oxidized to the reduced form. but, if you’re older, your body becomes more and more challenged to convert the oxidized Co Q10 to ubiquinol. Another very important reason for using a Co Q10 supplement is to help boost your body’s cellular energy production. Co Q10 helps facilitate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy “currency for all your cells. But if you’re over 25, you need the reduced form of Co Q10, ubiquinol, to efficiently do this. So even if you do your best to eat a healthy diet, your body’s ability to produce Co Q10 and convert it to ubiquinol declines over time.

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

Dr. James Augustine, D.C. – BioVeda Health & Wellness Center of Cerritos, CA

To begin this discussion, most people go to the doctor when symptoms arise. Symptoms are the last thing to show up but the first thing to leave. We all have been taught that we go to the doctor when we feel bad, and when the symptoms are gone, we are healthy. Lack of symptoms does not mean that a person is healthy. All the “silent killers” like high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, typically have no associated symptoms. The American Heart Association states that 50% of the time, the first symptom of a heart attack is no symptom but a massive, deadly heart attack; lights out. By the time symptoms arise, there has been permanent tissue damage happening in the associated areas of the body.

Therefore, I say, measure your health by how you function not by how you feel.  We utilize several methods in my practice to assess the body’s ability to function.  Contact BioVeda to learn more!

Dr. Jean Gibson, D.C. – BioVeda Health & Wellness Center of Fayetteville, AR

Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

You get up in the morning feeling stiff, but ignore it, because you didn’t sleep well the night before. You then sit down on the sofa to read the paper and enjoy your coffee. When you try to get up, BAM – a sudden and sharp pain in the back.

You get up in the morning and go straight to your computer. You end up sitting too long, and when you try to stand up – you can’t completely straighten up.

You get up in the morning, drink your coffee – which wakes up your gut – so you head to the bathroom. You are a bit constipated, and have to strain to empty your bowels. When you try to get up from the toilet, your back spasms.

Why, you wonder, do these things happen – and usually in the morning in the morning? Overnight sleeping leaves your back swollen- even on the best of beds – and extra fluid in your joints. The best thing to do is first thing – before starting your coffee, getting your paper, or checking your computer – you need to stretch to “wring” the excess fluids out of your joints. Gentle stretching when you wake up helps the fluid get to moving, warms up your muscles, and helps protect your back from spasms.

During your day, try to not bend over immediately after sitting. Instead, stand up and do some gentle backward bends to reset your spine. When you sit, don’t slump, as this reinforces the risks to something happening to your back. And try to get up every hour, walk around and do some gentle stretches. You will be amazed how much better you feel at the end of the day!

Lorri L. Beauchamp, L.Ac. – BioVeda Health & Wellness Center of Lincoln Park, IL

Seasonal allergies can wreak havoc on your life. For some, the symptoms are so severe, they keep sufferers home in bed. What can you do to minimize your allergy symptoms? Here are some simple tips:

1. Nasal irrigation is a perfect way to eliminate allergens from your nasal passages. It is safe and inexpensive and can be done several times per day. In the morning, it can help clear you of dust mites and molds found in your bedding. In the evening, it can clear pollen before you go to sleep.
2. Showering before bed is another good practice. You will rinse any excess pollen from your body and minimize the transfer of allergens into your bed. BUT – make sure you dry your hair thoroughly before you lay down. Wet hair on a pillow or mattress is a perfect environment for mold. So though you may have elminated the pollen, you may be creating a more pervasive issue with the mold.
3. If you exercise outdoors, avoid the hours between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m as that is the period during which pollen is emitted. As an alternative, excercise inside.
4. Swimming is an ideal activity for those suffering with allergies and asthma. The humid air near water keeps the airways moisturized.
5. If you have gas forced air, use high quality air filters in your system. Change the filters frequently. Consider a HEPA filter in your bedroom as well as mattress and pillowcase protectors for dustmites.
6. Take a multivitamins with minerals to provide additional support to your immune system.

Finally, when your system is depleted by seasonal allergies or any allergies, it is especially important to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest.

Contact BioVeda to learn more!

- by Dr. Ray Nannis, BioVeda Health and Wellness Center of Richardson, TX

Japanese researchers have found home-based exercises to be more effective in the treatment of chronic low back pain than prescribed NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). While NSAIDs can reduce inflammation and pain, they are a form of passive care that fails to address functionality issues such as limited motion, muscular weakness and muscular imbalances, not to mention the many negative side effects associated with NSAID use. Home-based exercises are not only natural and far safer, they specifically address functional issues and deficiencies in a proactive manner. And thus, it goes to reason that both men and women (mean age of approx. 42 years) who participated in the home-based exercises versus the NSAIDs during the 12-month study experienced more significant improvements in both reported low back pain and overall disability.

If you’re not sure of what type of home-based exercises you should be doing, consider visiting a Chiropractor for guidance. Of course we think of visiting a Chiropractor when we have an injury or pain in our lower back or neck. We also tend to think of them following an automobile accident.

While these are all great reasons to schedule your visit with a Chiropractor, there are also many other reasons we should be considering Chiropractic care.  Every practitioner is different and specializes in different types of treatment options.

There are many reasons to visit a Chiropractor aside from spinal related items; however I want to share just a few of them with you.

• Fertility- That’s right. Fertility. When trying to conceive a child there are many things you need to focus on to allow your body. If you prefer a more natural, holistic way to help your body become pregnant, than ask around and find out if your local Chiropractor specializes in Fertility. If he/she doesn’t they would be happy to refer to you to a Chiropractor who does.
• Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. We should remember that issues with shoulders, knees, hips and basically all moveable joints can be treated by your Chiropractor. If you are living with pain or numbness in any of your joints, please discuss them with your Chiropractor.
• Weight Loss- Many Chiropractors have received training on weight loss programs and can assist you with meeting your weight loss goals. By developing a custom training program and discussing nutrition, your Chiropractor can help you with safe weight loss and help you learn better habits.
• Quit Smoking- Ready to give up the ghost and stop smoking? You can visit your primary care doctor and receive a nicotine patch or prescription drugs, however have you thought about asking how your Chiropractor might be able to help and help you stay away from the prescriptions? When you are ready to stop smoking, please talk with your Chiropractor or contact a BioVeda Health and Wellness Center to learn more about our proprietary Just Stop Smoking Program.
• Sports Performance or General Well Being. If you are an athlete or just want to feel your best while running, biking or playing with your children or grand children, then a routine schedule of Chiropractic care should be part of your schedule. Keeping your spine in proper alignment not only reduces your chance of injury, but keeps your body operating at its full potential.

Remember, Chiropractors can help with many of your needs. They work hard to resolve these issues in a variety of natural methods.

Flu season  seems to come earlier and earlier each year.The CDC is already strongly recommending that people go out and get their annual flu shots.  And while vaccines can offer protection from the flu, there are other natural methods of flu prevention you can use to help avoid infection and minimize symptoms if you do contract the flu virus.

One great way to help keep your immune system healthy and reduce your susceptibility to the flu virus is to supplement with Vitamin D3. Vitamin D is produced in the body during exposure to sunlight. During the winter we tend to get less exposure so vitamin D supplements are recommended. People who take vitamin D supplements have better luck avoiding the seasonal flu. This idea that Vitamin D helps fight the flu is further supported by a study conducted last year:

“The findings of our study support an important role for vitamin D in prevention of common respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu,” says researcher Adit Ginde, MD, MPH, of the University of Colorado, Denver, Division of Emergency Medicine, in a news release. “Individuals with common lung diseases, such as asthma or emphysema, may be particularly susceptible to respiratory infections from vitamin D deficiency.”

BioVeda Health and Wellness Centers now offer a Vitamin D3 spray which is great for the whole family. Contact a center near you or visit our online store to order your bottle today!

Other methods of Flu Prevention Include (thank you to FluHelp.org for the following tips):

If you want to avoid getting the flu this winter, follow these 7 proven techniques for boosting your immune system, fighting off germs, and keeping your body healthy…

1. Get enough sleep. Your immune system functions much better when you get enough sleep. Most people really need about 8 hours per night for optimal health. If you’re body is fatigued, it simply won’t be able to fight off the flu virus (or any other infection) very well.
2. Exercise regularly. Exercise helps keep your immune system strong. In fact, a recent study showed that mice who performed mild exercise as soon as they were exposed to the flu virus had much lower death rates. Read about the study here.
3. Avoid sugar. Even small amounts of sugar can significantly impair your immune function, making you more susceptible to a flu infection. A large amount of sugar, such as the amount found in a normal can of soda, hurts your immune function for hours.
4. Drink lots of pure water. Keeping your mucous membranes well-hydrated is a key to helping them fight off viruses. Shoot for about eight 8-ounce glasses per day.
5. Reduce stress. Too much stress has a highly negative impact on your overall health and, over time, it will make you much more susceptible to a flu infection. Studies show that prolonged stress is at least partially responsible for 90% of all illness and disease. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep both help reduce stress levels. Also, meditation is a proven stress-buster that is easy, enjoyable and can be used on a daily basis.
6. Wash your hands often. Also, carry a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use it frequently, especially after you touch anything that others have touched recently (like doorknobs).
7. Eat immune-boosting foods on a daily basis. A healthy diet, including a few proven immune-boosting foods, is one of the best ways to avoid catching the flu. The best flu-fighting foods are:

• • Fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables – Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are packed with healthy phytonutrients that can strengthen your immune system, lowering your susceptibility to the flu virus.
  • Fresh raw or lightly-cooked garlic – Garlic has strong natural antiviral properties that can help to fight off a flu virus. Also, garlic provides a strong boost to your immune system, especially when eaten on a regular basis.
  • Green Tea – Like garlic, green tea has shown the ability to both kill viruses and to stimulate the immune system to fight off flu infections, especially when used daily. Try to drink 3-6 cups of strong green tea per day during the flu season.
  • Cayenne Pepper – Cayenne has a long list of health benefits and is believed to be a mild immune-booster. Also, cayenne contains large amounts of natural vitamin A, considered to be an important “anti-infection” nutrient.

Contact a BioVeda Health & Wellness Center near you to learn more about how to achieve optimal health and wellness.  Get Well. Stay Well. BioVeda.

- by Dr. Jean Gibson, BioVeda Health & Wellness Center of Fayetteville, AR

We have all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but do you know why that’s the case? Breakfast is the first meal that the body has for fuel after “fasting” all night, so it “breaks” your “fast” – breakfast. Eating breakfast helps us to maintain a healthy blood sugar level, which is important for maintaining our overall health.

However, what we eat for breakfast is very important. Eating sweets and low-fiber carbohydrates will lead to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is often a precursor to heart disease and diabetes. So breakfasts consisting of donuts, pancakes, waffles, sweet rolls, etc. are not a healthy way to start your day. These cause your blood sugar to spike up, then crash down, making for a very long day!

The best foods for breakfast include healthy fats, high fiber carbohydrates and protein. Some examples are organic eggs, high fiber, whole grain toast, fruit, nuts, seeds or plain yogurt. Even if you don’t have time for what you may “breakfast” – eggs, toast, etc. – you can still make a healthy shake of fruit, unsweetened plain yogurt, water, ground flax seed, and fresh or frozen berries. You can sweeten the shake with Stevia if the natural sweetness of the berries is not enough.

So tomorrow, make sure you start your day with a healthy breakfast and see the difference it makes in your energy level!

- By Dr. James Augustine, D.C.

Myth: Food intolerance and food sensitivity are the same thing.

Not true. And neither one are the same as food allergy.

Experts say “food intolerance” and “food sensitivity” are often used interchangeably by the public, causing misunderstanding. Add “food poisoning” to the list, and people become even more confused.

• Food intolerance occurs when the body lacks a particular enzyme to digest that food. Two common examples are lactose intolerance and celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the gastrointestinal tract cannot process gluten, a protein in wheat-based products such as cereal and bread. An intolerant person avoids the foods that trigger a reaction, but these reactions aren’t caused by the immune system and they are not life threatening.
• Food sensitivity, an understudied area, generally means people have an unpleasant reaction to certain foods; perhaps they develop acid reflux, nausea, or abdominal cramps, but again, these are not immune system reactions, and these reactions do not always occur in the same way when eating the food.

You could also have a bad reaction to food tainted by bacterial contamination or not properly prepared. That’s food poisoning. Symptoms often involve diarrhea and vomiting and typically clear up in 24-48 hours.

Dr. Augustine’s comments:
Good clarification here. Another vote for taking digestive enzymes, which clears up acid reflux and most other issues with food intolerances, as well as can prevent tainted food issues.

BioVeda Health & Wellness Centers offer a digestive enzymes supplement product called “HealthZymes” which are advanced digestive enzymes.

Maybe you are having occasional problems with your digestive system, you are not alone. This discomfort of bloating affects up to 30% of adults. This is without the mention of other abdominal signs– like irregular bowel movements, passing gas, or stomach discomfort. If you add these in, the percentage shoots through the roof! Many are dealing with social embarrassment because of occasional bloating or stomach discomfort. Many times you find yourself losing out on the fun of sitting down to a good meal because of the price you will pay later. All because your digestive system is not working properly.

If your body does not break down and absorb nutrients correctly, the effects will go far beyond occasional stomach discomfort that you are feeling. It has been said that maintaining a healthy digestive system is the core of all health. After all your digestive system in the source of all nutrients that your cells need. A healthy nutritious diet is essential, but if your stomach and intestines are not working correctly then the diet will not do much for your health. This is going to prevent you from absorbing the nutrition building blocks that your body depends on. In order to help your digestive system do its job, you have got to understand what goes on inside your stomach and small intestine. You have probably tried many different strategies to work with your digestion. Yet for some reason it still is not working as well as it can. You may just need a little help.

Here is how digestive enzymes work: There are carbohydrates, proteins, fats, as well as vitamins, minerals and other components. To absorb these nutrients into your bloodstream, you have got to break down these large molecules into smaller pieces. Your body has evolved a chemically engineered system to do just that. While you are finishing your meal, digestive enzymes are rushing into your small intestine from your liver, gall bladder, and pancreas to break down the large food pieces into smaller pieces. that are easier to absorb. These enzymes are special proteins designed to break apart a specific molecule in your foods.

• Proteases (proteolytic enzymes)–break down protein
• Lipases–break down fat
• Amylases–break down carbohydrates

Introducing, HealthZymes, a BioCore product for ultimate digestion*!  Contact a BioVeda Health and Wellness Center near you to learn more!

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

Did you know that up to 80% of the ingredients in perfumes and makeup came from an oil well? Even essential oils are from class of hydrocarbon compounds known as terpenes but can also be aldehydes, esters, ketones, alcohols and phenol-based compounds.  As a result it’s important to be discerning in your choice of cosmetics especially if you’ve had an allergic response to a product in the past. The following is a guide to safe use of cosmetics.

Environmental Working Group has released a great video that provides an overview of cosmetics safety in about 8 minutes.

Some cosmetics that are labeled hypo-allergenic really aren’t. It is important to read the label. Don’t use any product that contains lanolin and perfume, the most common causes of skin reactions. Mineral oil can dry out your skin after just two applications. The eyelid and surrounding areas are especially vulnerable because the skin is extremely thin and loose, allowing chemicals to penetrate more easily. This may cause the skin to swell more readily than on other parts of the face.

There are two allergic reactions that might occur following exposure to cosmetics: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a condition marked by areas of inflammation (redness, itching, and swelling) that form after a substance comes into contact with your skin.

1. Irritant contact dermatitis: This is more common than allergic contact dermatitis and can occur in anyone. It develops when an irritating or harsh substance actually damages the skin. Irritant contact dermatitis usually begins as patches of itchy, scaly skin or a red rash, but can develop into blisters that ooze, especially if the skin is further irritated from scratching. It generally occurs at the site of contact with the irritating substance. Areas where the outermost layer of skin is thin, such as the eyelids, or where the skin is dry and cracked are more susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis.
2. Allergic contact dermatitis: This occurs in people who are allergic to a specific ingredient or ingredients in a product. Symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and hive-like breakouts. In some cases, the skin becomes red and raw. The face, lips, eyes, ears, and neck are the most common sites for cosmetic allergies, although reactions may appear anywhere on the body.

The time it takes for symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis to appear varies. For stronger irritants, such as perfumes, a reaction may occur within minutes or hours of exposure. However, it may take days or weeks of continued exposure to a weaker irritant, such as soap, before symptoms appear. In some cases, a person can develop an allergic sensitivity to a product after years of use. With irritant contact dermatitis, the skin breaks down when it comes into contact with harsh substances, most often chemicals that directly injure the outer layer of the skin, resulting in symptoms of a cosmetic allergy.

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs because the body’s immune system is having an inappropriate reaction to a specific substance that it wrongly considers harmful. This type of allergy can be reprogrammed.

Hypoallergenic Products:

There are no Federal rules that control the use of the term, so there is no assurance to consumers that the product is really what it says it is. When a product is labeled as hypoallergenic, it is done only under the discretion of the manufacturers, and not of a higher regulating body. Some companies conduct tests before placing the hypoallergenic claim on the label, but there are others who do not. Some claim to be hypoallergenic just because they did not include perfumes and other problem-causing ingredients. Also, manufacturers are not required to submit a substantiation of their claims. The term, hypoallergenic, is just used as a marketing tool.

Other labels can also be deceiving. “Dermatologist-tested” only means that a skin doctor tested the product to see if it will cause allergies, and it does not mean that it was tested on several individuals. Even labels such as, “safe for sensitive skin”, “allergy tested”, “sensitivity-tested”, and “non-irritating”, offer no guarantee. The basic ingredients in both hypoallergenic cosmetics and regular cosmetics are the same. There are no scientific studies that prove that hypoallergenic makeup indeed causes fewer allergic reactions. So in reality, there is no such thing as hypoallergenic makeup.

Common culprits include cosmetic ingredients in perfumes, lipsticks, eyeliner, hair dyes, nail polishes, and sunscreen agents. Allergenic ingredients include substances in perfumes, as well as perfumes in makeup and skin creams; waxes and fats, particularly cocoa butter, in lipsticks; metallic compounds in eyeliner or eye shadow; tetrabromofluorescein in hair dyes; tosylamide, formaldehyde resin, and nail acrylates in nail polish; PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), hydroquinone or digalloy trioleate in sunscreen preparations; either mercury or hydroquinone in bleaching creams; and methyldibromo glutaronitrile and other preservatives in cosmetics that contain water. The offending substance may just be the makeup remover. You may be suffering from irritant contact dermatitis. It develops when an irritating or harsh substance actually damages the skin.

Like food, makeup also has an expiration date, and over time cosmetics can harbor harmful bacteria that can lead to infections. Cosmetics aren’t required by law to have expiration dates, so you can’t just look at the label to know when a product has expired.

Check out this guide to expiration dates — beginning from the time you first open these products:

• Powders and shadows: 2 years
• Cream shadows: 12 to 18 months
• Foundation: 1 year
• Lipstick &: lip liner: 1 year
• Mascara &: eyeliners: 3 months
• Makeup brushes: Clean weekly using a mild detergent
• Makeup sponges: Cosmetic makeup sponges are disposable tools. Replace weekly, or when sponge becomes soiled Wash after every use.
• You should never keep mascara for any longer than 3 months (air pushes bacteria back into the tube). Never “pump” your mascara.
• Lip gloss: 1 year
• Eye and lip pencils: 1 year or more, but you should sharpen pencils at least once a week to prevent bacteria from being transferred to your eye area. You’ll know the product has gone bad if it dries or crumbles.
• Skincare
• Facial Cleansers & Moisturizers, 6 months
• Concealer, 6-8 months
• Facial Toners, 1 year
• Natural Cosmetics, 6 months (“all-natural body washes”, etc.)
• Among other cosmetics that are likely to have an unusually short shelf life are “all natural” products that contain plant-derived ingredients (which are conducive to bacterial growth), or products with no preservatives.
• Brushes And Tools
• Oils and bacteria get trapped in the bristles of the brushes. Wash natural-bristled brushes once a month, and synthetic brushes three to four times a month. Lay the brushes flat to dry so that the bristles don’t break, and to maintain the shape of the brushes. There are brush cleansers out there, but you can also use mild soap. You may also use baby shampoo to wash your brushes.

Tips for keeping your skin clean and your makeup fresh

• Smell your cosmetics; if they have an unusual odor, they may contain bacteria and should be discarded.
• Always make sure that products are closed tight and stored out of sunlight, as this can destroy the preservatives.
• Don’t use any eye products if you currently have an eye infection.
• Never add any liquids to products unless directed by the manufacturer.
• If there are any changes in color and texture, dispose of the product immediately.
• Avoid sampling makeup at department stores when possible. If you do test, never apply directly from the makeup. Instead, use a clean, disposable applicator (i.e., cotton swab, sponge) to apply cosmetics.
• Foundation in a bottle should last 3-6 months, but wide mouthed jars can expose the product to more air and should be tossed sooner. You’ll know it’s time to purchase a new bottle, when the ingredients begin to settle or separate, the texture thickens or thins, or the smell changes.

Visit the Cosmetics Safety Database to determine if the everyday products you are using are actually safe.

A recent report from Children’s Hospital Boston indicates that food allergies in children are becoming more common and more severe.  In fact, the number of food allergy cases at this hospital doubled in 2006. In addition, the number of kids with food allergies went up 18 percent from 1997 to 2007, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 3 million children younger than 18 had a food or digestive allergy in 2007, the CDC said.  There are many theories as to why more and more children are becoming allergic.  This rise in allergies could be due to our Western diet, making us more susceptible to developing allergies and other illnesses. CNN further explores this possibility in their article “Why are food allergies on the rise?“:

The children in the African village live in a community that produces its own food. The study authors say this is closer to how humans ate 10,000 years ago. Their diet is mostly vegetarian. By contrast, the local diet of European children contains more sugar, animal fat and calorie-dense foods. The study authors posit that these factors result in less biodiversity in the organisms found inside the gut of European children.

The decrease in richness of gut bacteria in Westerners may have something to do with the rise in allergies in industrialized countries, said Dr. Paolo Lionetti of the department of pediatrics at Meyer Children Hospital at the University of Florence. Sanitation measures and vaccines in the West may have controlled infectious disease, but they decreased exposure to a variety of bacteria may have opened the door to these other ailments.

“In a place where you can die [from] infectious diseases, but you don’t get allergy, obesity, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disease, the flora is different,” Lionetti said.

This study only looked at a small number of children, but the findings support the widespread notion of the “hygiene hypothesis” — the idea that cases of allergies are increasing in number and severity because children grow up in environments that are simply too clean.

“That our immune system is skewed away from fighting infections, and toward fight things that it’s not supposed to be fighting, like things in the environment or foods — that’s one thing that people think may be in play,” Rudders said.

Another reason presented for this rapid increase in food allergies and food sensitivities in children is the idea of delayed introduction of high allergen foods. A study published in the Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics, “Age at First Introduction of Cow Milk Products and Other Food Products in Relation to Infant Atopic Manifestations in the First 2 Years of Life: The KOALA Birth Cohort Study” has found that delaying the introduction of certain common allergen foods, particularly cow’s milk, is not favorable and does not prevent the development of allergic response such as eczema, wheezing or atopic dermatitis. They studied data from 2558 infants in the Netherlands to come to this conclusion, through questionnaires administered at 34 weeks of gestation and 3, 7, 12, and 24 months postpartum. They then measured allergic sensitivity at age 2, through blood sampling. They determined that delaying introduction of common allergens may actually increase the risk of eczema at age 2 and beyond.

Another study involving Jewish children in the United Kingdom and Israel has found that the Israeli children who were exposed to peanuts frequently during infancy were 10 times LESS likely to develop a peanut allergy than their UK counterparts.

“The most obvious difference in the diet of infants in both populations occurs in the introduction of peanut. Israeli infants are introduced to peanut during early weaning and continue to eat peanut more frequently and in higher amounts than UK infants, who avoid peanut, as per Department of Health recommendations.  The observed differences in Peanut Allergies between the UK and Israel are unlikely to be explained by genetic differences. Our findings raise the question of whether early and frequent ingestion of high-dose peanut protein during infancy might prevent the development of Peanut Allergies through tolerance induction. Paradoxically, past recommendations in the United States and current recommendations in the UK and Australia might be promoting the development of Peanut Allergies and could explain the continued increase in the prevalence of Peanut Allergies observed in these countries.”

Whatever the reason for the increase, it’s time to look at alternative methods of addressing these allergies in children.  BioVeda Health & Wellness Centers offer a variety of holistic therapies that can help reduce or eliminate symptoms related to food allergies.  Contact a BioVeda Health & Wellness Center to learn more!