Traveling Overseas for Cosmetic Enhancement? You May Want To Learn About Cryo T-Shock First!

Originally published on phlabs.org

Many people have surgeries performed while vacationing abroad.

“Patients who travel to another country to seek health care are referred to as medical tourists. The term arose because many Americans seek less expensive elective surgical, dental, or cosmetic procedures while vacationing abroad,” according to a study published in The American Journal of Medicine.

This study reports that in 2017, more than 1.4 million Americans sought health care in “a variety of countries around the world.”

Many of these Americans are not exactly getting health-related care per se. They are getting cosmetic procedures, including liposuction, tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts and more.

But while it may be cheaper to receive certain healthcare overseas, the “price” some people end up paying may not be worth it. 

“Patients traveling to developing countries for plastic surgery procedures may experience severe complications—requiring extensive and costly treatment after they return to the United States,” reports the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Some of these complications may include pain, surgical site infections and issues with wound healing. And, unfortunately, for some people it ends up costing them their lives.

Take, for example, the recent story of a mother and school teacher named Alicia Williams. She traveled to the Dominican Republic where she reportedly had multiple cosmetic procedures, including liposuction on her arm, a tummy tuck and a Brazilian butt lift.  

(The Dominican Republic has few restrictive rules on the number of surgeries you can get at once).

Williams was anemic. Basically, anemia is a blood disorder in which a person does not have enough red blood cells or their red blood cells do not function properly. There are different types of anemia, and the kind you have likely heard of is iron-deficiency anemia. A low level of iron in the blood is a major risk factor for developing blood clots.  

Reports say that Williams lost a lot of blood due to having multiple surgeries, and then she later died from blood clots. Williams was initially hospitalized after her surgeries, because she felt very weak from the procedures. She died only five days after her surgeries. She was just 45. 

Sadly, there are multiple stories such as the one about Alicia Williams with medical tourists getting cosmetic procedures abroad and losing their lives.

Just this past June, a man from New York died after getting liposuction in the Dominican Republic. Reportedly, he died of respiratory distress. 

And according to another news story from this past July, “...New York mother, 33-year-old Alexandra Medina, died on the operating table of a pulmonary embolism at a clinic in Santo Domingo after undergoing liposuction and tummy tuck surgery.” 

There was yet another incident back in 2018 where an American woman reportedly died after going to Mexico for breast implant replacement and a nose job. She passed from complications with anesthesia. 

It’s not only tragic, but frightening to see these stories. And you can do a simple Google search of “medical tourism” and find many more.  

Obviously, I don’t recommend medical tourism for anyone unless they work with an independent and qualified local medical professional. But individuals should also be aware of less invasive procedures available to improve their appearance.

For example, there are some instances where instead of liposuction, a tummy tuck or a face lift, utilization of Cryo T-Shock treatments may be helpful to improve appearance.

The Cryo T-Shock involves the use of a very innovative technology which identifies exactly where troublesome fat is located and delivers alternating “thermal shocks” of thermography (heat therapy) and cryotherapy (cold therapy). It is more frequently utilized for its ability to destroy fat cells and cellulite as well as sculpt the face and body. Cryotherapy hyper stimulates the skin and tissue which speeds up the cellular activities and immediately improves the appearance of the skin by tightening it. Cryotherapy also causes the blood vessels and capillaries to expand by up to 400%. This also contributes to improved skin appearance due to increased circulation and permeability of the skin.  

Many people compare Cryo T-Shock to Cool Sculpting, but they are very different procedures. Cool Scullpting is more expensive and usually only available for fat loss. Unlike Cryo T-Shock, Cool Sculpting is not available for skin tightening, facials, lymphatic drainage, pain relief or cellulite reduction. 

So How Does Cryo T-Shock Work?

Certain treatments, like the body contouring, usually last for about 30- 60 minutes and are done manually employing a massage technique. The session usually “begins with 2 minutes of heat and then a prolonged period of cold (22-26 minutes) and then back to heat for another 2-3 minutes.”

“The purpose of the treatment is to lower the temperature of the fat cells enough to cause what is known as the phenomenon of apoptosis. This phenomenon is triggered when the temperature of the fat tissue is between 12 and 17 C which causes these cells to die. The cells are then naturally passed through the body’s lymphatic system and excreted through sweat and urine,” according to Chiltonic, a cryotherapy clinic. 

Cryo T-shock treatments are reportedly safe, painless and effective. This treatment may jumpstart your weight loss efforts, reduce cellulite, improve circulation, tighten saggy skin and remove stubborn areas of fat.  

“It has also been proven to help with micro circulation and a significant increase in collagen due to the thermal shock that is caused by the hot and cold,” says Chilltonic.

Cryo T-Shock facials help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and promote collagen production in the skin. In my opinion, this facial is a better option over getting an invasive face lift that has a high risk of complications.

Treatments like the Cryo T-Shock produce more natural looking results. (We’ve all seen what can happen when someone has too many invasive cosmetic procedures). 

And remember, nothing can compensate for leading a healthy and active lifestyle. Along with considering T-Shock treatments, remember it is always good to eat healthily (as in a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables), be physically active and manage your stress levels in order to maintain your looks and health as you age. If you take these proactive steps, the better results you will see from Cryo T-Shock treatments. 

There are also contraindications.

Individuals with the following conditions should avoid Cryo T-shock treatment:

• Kidney disease or if receiving dialysis

• Pregnant women

• Severe diabetes

• Undergoing chemotherapy

Proactive Health Labs endorses these safe alternatives to healthily identify and remove fat and look our best. Visit us in Sherman Oaks and Encinitas to experience the Cryo T-shock. It is extremely important that we all take the time to identify safe available cosmetic procedures and avoid riskier ones, so we can be safe and enjoy our healthy lives!

A Combination of Hot & Cold Therapy May Be Good For Your Tummy Issues

Originally published on phlabs.org

Tummy issues. We all experience them whether they are due to fat, indigestion, heartburn, menstrual pain, bloating or constipation.

But many of us never consider massage therapy as a viable option to relieve our stomach woes. And usually when we think about massages, we generally consider deep tissue or some type of sports massage where a massage therapist uses his or her bare hands to provide the service. 

Massages delivered by the bare hands can be fairly effective because they may relax the muscles, improve circulation, relieve pain, maintain flexibility and relieve tension. But sometimes, the delivery of these massages can be painful. According to Chiltonic, “here is an instance where we may be trying to relieve pain but the process we use to do it may cause some pain.” In addition, my experience has been that many therapists are hesitant to do abdominal massages or are fairly ineffective when they perform these massages. 

The good news is that there is a significant evolution in the field of massage therapy and technology. Now therapists are able to deliver essentially painless and more effective massage results “using a handheld device - a special wand which delivers hot and/or cold temperatures, ” according to Kyle Laws, a Chiltonic Therapist & General Manager.  According to Laws, a “ well trained massage technician can use this wand to rub or knead the muscles and other soft tissues and produce incredible results, like pain relief without the added discomfort of certain deep tissue massages.”

When it comes to abdominal massages, there is also credible evidence suggesting that abdominal massage therapy may provide  relief from issues such as indigestion, bloating, gas, excess fat and constipation. Appropriate massage therapy can increase circulation, make the stomach muscles relax and reduce stress that may exacerbate these issues.

For example, a 2018 study suggested that  abdominal massages may improve the gastrointestinal functions of certain patients in intensive care. “It is suggested to use abdominal massage as an adjunct therapy for improving gastrointestinal functions in intensive care patients.”

Another study in 2015 concluded that abdominal massages may be useful to stimulate “lymph return to the venous system and reduce ascites-related symptoms.”

There is even credible evidence that abdominal massages may reduce menstrual pain, bloating  and constipation.

The best news is that you can reap the benefits of abdominal massages from a fairly recent technology on the market called the Cryo T-Shock which does not rely on the bare hands of the technician to deliver the benefits. Cryo T-Shock uses a handheld device controlled by the technician to massage the stomach area using a combination of cold and hot temperatures. The changes in temperature boosts circulation and reduces various symptoms including bloating and constipation.  When set at lower temperatures, this procedure may even reduce the size of the abdomen by destroying fat cells.

I frequently use this procedure to improve and enhance the circulation in my abdomen as I age and reduce the likelihood of water retention.

While the treatment definitely feels cold (we’re talking somewhere in the neighborhood of 0 -8 degrees Celsius), it isn’t uncomfortable at all. And it certainly was not painful. In fact the wand used to deliver the therapy feels relaxing and I usually doze off for a short while during the treatment. I am usually in and out after about 35 minutes and am able to return to work, play golf  and continue my day productively.

I am so happy to announce that we are now able to provide this service at our Sherman Oaks location with the help of Chiltonic. If you are in the Sherman Oaks area, stop by for an evaluation.

Finally, never forget the important role lifestyle also plays in keeping our tummies happy and healthy.

Enjoy your healthy life!

Part of the 50 & Up Club? You Need to Make Sure You’re Getting Enough Vitamin B12

Originally published on phlabs.org

If you’re a regular reader of my blogs and are familiar with my book, it’s no secret to you that I’m all about overcoming nutrient deficiencies and imbalances. If you have too little or too much of the nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, which are needed for proper body functioning, you are likely to have health issues. Nutritional imbalance puts you at a greater risk of developing health issues such as depression and obesity. And if you already have certain health issues, like metabolic syndrome, you may need more of a certain nutrient than the average person.

Nutrient deficiencies in particular are very common for a variety of reasons, including:

• Foods losing nutrient value

• Use of certain medications

• Alcohol and drug use

• A processed, pro-inflammatory diet

• Genetics

• Older age

The latter of these reasons, older age, is something we will all inevitably face if we are lucky enough to grow older. With age comes wisdom, but with this wisdom also comes a body that is less efficient and less capable of absorbing the nutrients it gets from food intake. Not to mention, it’s pretty common these days for older adults to be taking at least one or more prescription drug.

One nutrient we should be especially concerned about is vitamin B12. Recent research in Ireland has suggested that one in eight people over 50 have low vitamin B12 levels.

Vitamin B12 is one of the eight B vitamins. It is necessary for nerve function, brain health and production of red blood cells and DNA. This is all important for metabolism as well as cellular and nervous system functions. Vitamin B12 also helps prevent a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, which makes people tired and weak. This vitamin may also help prevent memory loss associated with aging.

You may have heard that vegans need to take B12 supplements, because this vitamin is mainly found in animal foods such as eggs, poultry, fish, milk and red meat.

“Normal function of the digestive system required for food-bound vitamin B12 absorption is commonly impaired in individuals over 60 years of age, placing them at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency,” reports the Linus Pauling Institute.

And as mentioned, it appears that just being over 50 can put you at a greater risk for this nutrient deficiency.

Signs and symptoms of a B12 deficiency, which may be mistaken for other health issues, may include:

• Memory issues and issues with general thinking skills (may even cause brain shrinkage, according to the American Academy of Neurology)

• Fatigue and weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Constipation

• Tingling and numbness in the feet and/or hands

• Disorientation

• Paranoia

• Irritability

“Doctors don’t always have B12 at the front of their minds when a patient is having symptoms like these, according to Joshua Miller, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers University,” according to one source.

“But if not caught in time, some of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may be irreversible.”

Also know that the recent research found that smokers are also at a high risk for B12 deficiency and so are people with Crohn’s disease. Furthermore, the evidence showed that one in seven older adults (50 and over) are also low in folate(another B vitamin), according to this report. Folate is also necessary for nerve function, brain health and the production of red blood cells.

How can we be proactive?

“If you are over age 50, the Institute of Medicine recommends that you get extra B12 from a supplement, since you may not be able to absorb enough of the vitamin through foods. A standard multivitamin should do the trick,” according to  Harvard Health.

Supplements can be great at alleviating nutritional deficiencies, however, you must supplement with the advice of a competent healthcare professional. It is not safe to blindly take supplements if you do not know the status of your nutrient levels (which you can find out through a comprehensive nutrient test). In addition to this, there are many poor quality supplements that just do not work, so you want to get recommended brands from your doctor.

And if you’re like me, you may even have issues absorbing certain nutrients from supplements.

Don’t worry. There is a solution.

I utilize pH IV Vitamin Drips on a monthly basis to address my inevitable nutrient absorption issues. They provide vitamins (and hydration) directly into the bloodstream to help boost my nutritional status and help with energy levels. I believe this has successfully boosted my immunity, energy and good health.

If you’re squeamish about needles, please don’t let that deter you. It is really worth it, and I feel confident in saying that it will improve your quality of life as it has improved mine. You can read more about these health “cocktails,” here.

Enjoy your healthy life!

*For the month of August take 50% off B12! Book your appointment today!

Why Some People Like Wendy Williams May Need Special Cocktails Like “Banana Bags” and “Myers’ Cocktails”

Originally published on phlabs.org

Recently, television host Wendy Williams got a special cocktail - a vitamin cocktail in the form of an IV vitamin drip. Another name for the cocktail she received is a “banana bag,” and it usually contains “a combination of 100 mg of thiamine, 1 mg of folic acid, 1-2 g of magnesium, and a multivitamin formulation in either normal saline or dextrose in water solution,” according to this source.

A banana bag is generally used for a very specific medical purpose - chronic alcohol use disorder (AUD).

In the past, Williams has shared that she struggled with a cocaine addiction that lasted 10 years. She was able to overcome this and become a highly successful and popular TV personality. But now, unfortunately, she appears to be battling an addiction to alcohol and, according to some reports, prescription drugs.  

Reportedly, just one week after sharing on-air that she had been living in a sober home, the 54-year-old host had to be hospitalized after checking herself out of the sober home and drinking heavily. She was said to be taken to the hospital after members of her staff found her very drunk.

As we have discussed before, intravenous (IV) vitamin drips deliver a cocktail of nutrients directly into a person’s bloodstream.

IV delivery of nutrients and medication is routinely utilized in the hospital setting for treating patients. These intravenous fluids may also contain potassium, glucose, and sodium, which are electrolytes your body needs to function normally.  

Medical professionals sometimes use IV lines to deliver drugs directly into the veins. This form of delivery helps the drugs reach the bloodstream more quickly than they would if you took a capsule or tablet. IV drugs are also useful for treating people who are vomiting and cannot take oral medications. So it's not surprising that IV lines are also being used to deliver nutrients.

And you don’t necessarily have to be having a medical issue or an emergency to utilize IV vitamin drips. Many people may use IV drips to help prevent or reduce the symptoms of the common cold, a hangover, jet lag, fatigue and more.

The nutrient-filled fluid in a banana bag has a yellow color, hence the name. The nutrients identified above that are present in the bag are all essential to the proper functioning of our bodies.

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), 100mg. Thiamine is an essential nutrient for all the tissues in the body, including our brain tissue. “A deficiency in the essential nutrient thiamine resulting from chronic alcohol consumption is one factor underlying alcohol–induced brain damage,” reports the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

• Vitamin B9 (Folate), 1mg. Abusing alcohol usually causes a folate deficiency, which can lead to anemia (a decrease in the red blood cells). This nutrient deficiency may also lead to psychosis, agitation and sleep issues.

• Magnesium, 1-2 g. “Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is common among alcoholics. Animal studies have shown that magnesium deficiency aggravates the hepatic [relating to the liver] damage caused by alcohol. One study on chronic alcoholics suggested that magnesium supplementation over six weeks decreases abnormally high activities of three enzymes related to liver function,” according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

A banana bag may also contain a multivitamin, which makes sense considering how badly alcohol robs the body of vitamins  we all need to stay healthy. All the nutrients mentioned in the banana bag may help prevent or reduce the likelihood of additional alcohol poisoning and withdrawal symptoms, such as prolonged vomiting, dehydration and low blood sugar.

Another popular cocktail in the world of IV vitamin drips is the Myers’ Cocktail which may also be used to cure the effects of a hangover.

The Myers’ Cocktail is the original micronutrient drip developed by Dr. John Myers in the 1960’s. This cocktail usually contains vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, B complex (which contains all the B vitamins). This cocktail may also be relevant for a number of clinical conditions such as “migraines, fatigue, asthma, fibromyalgia, acute muscle spasms, chronic sinusitis and more.”

Some medical practitioners “prefer vitamin IV infusion over oral administration, because higher vitamin levels can enter the bloodstream via the veins than can orally.” Factors such as age and diet may affect our ability to absorb adequate amounts of nutrients from the foods we eat to stay healthy. As a result, obtaining nutrients via infusion is an option that may be used to ensure that we get the right amounts of nutrients we need.

In addition, there are circumstances (such as when we are sick or extremely physically active) when our bodies may require a higher amount of nutrients to stay healthy. Reportedly, the body “begins to use nutrients at a faster rate, too fast for the body to absorb nutrients from the gastrointestinal system.” So with “intravenous administration physicians are able to provide higher doses of vitamins directly to the body via the veins, directly to the cells that require them. These same levels are not obtainable through oral or intramuscular (IM) administration.”

You can read more about potential benefits of the Myers’ Cocktail and additional cocktails we offer at the pH Drip Lab, here.

I’ve never been much of a drinker, but these are “cocktails” I utilize often as I age to replace lost vitamins and minerals and help boost my nutritional status. Whether or not we are battling addiction like Wendy Williams, we all likely have challenges maintaining optimal nutrient levels. These challenges are due to a variety of factors, including medications,  surgery, chronic illness as well as age. When you have these challenges, it is important to consult with a competent healthcare practitioner to identify the best way you can be nutritionally balanced.

Let’s enjoy our healthiest lives!

People With Metabolic Syndrome May Need More Vitamin C

Originally published on phlabs.org

 We are officially well into the new year, and many of us are on a mission to be more proactive about our health. If you are currently overweight or obese but are not sure if you have any additional health issues (diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.), I would highly suggest making a doctor’s appointment in order to determine whether you have metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is not a disease. In a nutshell, individuals with metabolic syndrome have a certain conditions that puts them at risk for health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Having these conditions may even put you at a greater risk of developing dementia and other cognitive issues. One source refers to individuals with metabolic syndrome as having the “perfect storm” for some serious health issues.

There are varying opinions in the medical field regarding what is considered proper diagnosis of metabolic syndrome, however, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests that in order to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, you must have a minimum of three of the following metabolic risk factors:

• Abdominal obesity or being “apple shaped.” Also called visceral fat, excess belly fat can wrap around your vital organs and increase your risk of developing diabetes and fatty liver disease.

• High triglyceride levels (type of fat found in the blood).

• Low HDL (good cholesterol) level.

• High blood pressure (hypertension).

• High fasting blood sugar. Moderately high blood sugar could be a sign of early diabetes.

Unfortunately, metabolic syndrome is pretty common in the United States. Reportedly, more than a third of American adults have metabolic syndrome. And many may be unaware that they even have this condition.

The good news is that by adopting the right lifestyle habits, like physical activity and eating healthily, we can prevent, control and, in some cases, even reverse metabolic syndrome.

It is also important to note that people with metabolic syndrome need to be especially aware of their nutrient levels. Sometimes they may need to take more than the recommended amounts of certain nutrients.

One recent study produced findings suggesting that those with metabolic syndrome may need more vitamin C to “break cycle of antioxidant depletion.”

Antioxidants “are man-made or natural substances that may prevent or delay some types of cell damage,” (NIH). Fruits and vegetables are very nutrient-dense and rich in antioxidants. Vitamins A, C and E are examples of antioxidants as well as minerals such as selenium and manganese.

(You can find antioxidants in supplement form, but it’s always best to get nutrients and antioxidants from the foods that you eat).

A report discussing the recent study findings says, “...the type of eating [consuming high-calorie, nutrient-void processed foods] that leads to metabolic syndrome can prompt imbalances in the gut microbiome, with impaired gut function contributing to toxins in the bloodstream, resulting in vitamin C depletion, which subsequently impairs the trafficking of vitamin E.”

"If you don't have the vitamin C, the vitamin E gets lost and then you lose both of those antioxidants and end up in this vicious cycle of depleting your antioxidant protection," said a professor of public health and human sciences, referenced in the report.

"People with metabolic syndrome can eat the same amount of vitamin C as people without metabolic syndrome but have lower plasma concentrations of vitamin C.”

In healthy individuals, the recommended daily amount of vitamin C is between 65 to 90 milligrams. A medium-sized orange has about 70 milligrams of vitamin C. But if you have metabolic syndrome, you may need much more vitamin C than 65 to 90 milligrams per day.

There is not an exact number of how much vitamin C a person with metabolic syndrome needs, but some reports say that a person can have as much as 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C without entering dangerous territory. Remember, having too much of a certain nutrient can be just as bad as having too little of a certain nutrient.

The best approach is to talk to your doctor about what your specific vitamin C needs are. Your doctor or a competent healthcare professional can administer a nutrient test, which will detect any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances. From there, this medical professional can help you make the necessary dietary changes and/or suggest relevant and quality supplements including  intravenous supplementation.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from all of this is that metabolic syndrome is preventable. So if you already have metabolic syndrome, don’t be discouraged. You can improve or maybe even reverse your condition if you really get on a good path of eating right, making sure you have enough nutrients and antioxidants and getting enough physical activity.

Enjoy your healthy life!

The Nutrient All ALS Patients May Need

Originally published on phlabs.org

There are some diseases which disproportionately affect certain racial groups. For example, diabetes and hypertension are especially prevalent in the African-American communities. And amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig’s disease, appears to be most common among Caucasians - especially males. According to the ALS CARE Database, 60% of the people with ALS in the Database are men and 93% of patients are Caucasian.

ALS is a rare but devastating disease and reportedly affects about 3.9 people per 100,000 in the U.S. population. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Essentially, this disease causes you to lose control of your brain. And if you don’t have control of your brain, you don’t have control of your body. ALS also causes loss of muscle control. The leading cause of death from ALS is respiratory failure.

Former New Orleans Saint NFL player Steve Gleason is currently battling ALS. Reportedly, he was diagnosed at just 34-years-old (ALS is more commonly found in people between the ages of 55 and 75). There is no cure or known cause of ALS, however, some sources say repeated head trauma from playing football could be the possible culprit behind Gleason developing ALS.

“There are several other young football players who have suffered from ALS, such as Tim Shawand Kevin Turner, who died of the disease in March [2016] at 46,” according to one source.

“The head trauma hypothesis is bolstered by the fact that veterans appear to be more likely to develop ALS, as are soccer players. (With that sport, head-butting might be the culprit.) Other studies have found simply that concussions seem to be a risk factor for ALS, regardless of whether one is a professional athlete.”

Another case of ALS we previously discussed involved Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and Oscar-nominated actor Sam Shepard, who died of ALS at the age of 73.

And then there was the incredible story of Stephen Hawking and his battle with ALS that lasted around five decades! Hawking, who died last March at the age of 76 due to ALS, was diagnosed with the disease at just 21-years-old. After being diagnosed, doctors told him he would only live two years. Hawking proved them wrong by living another 55 years and achieving incredible things in his career as a physicist.

These stories of ALS all involve Caucasian men. At the end of the day, irrespective of our backgrounds, anyone may become a victim of this devastating disease. But the good news is that we can learn as much as we can about this disease and identify ways to be proactive.

One of the best preventative strategies may be following a healthy, nutrient-rich diet that fights oxidative stress and inflammation.

But in addition to this, recent research shows that high doses of vitamin B12 supplementation may be able to slow down the progression of ALS if you already have it. The key is that you start supplementation before or during early onset (within the first year) of having ALS symptoms.

The research involved treating people with ultra-high-dose methylcobalamin, the physiologically active form of vitamin B12, according to one report discussing the study.

“Vitamin B12 is particularly important in the development and function of the central nervous system (CNS) — the spinal cord and the brain. It is also involved in the maturation of red blood cells and the production of DNA, the genetic material inside all cells.”

(Main sources of vitamin B12 are found in animal products, like meat and eggs. So if you are vegetarian or vegan, you may need to incorporate a B12 supplement into your diet).

According to the report, methylcobalamin is a form of B12 that can be used as a dietary supplement to treat megaloblastic anemia.

“Due to its important role in the CNS, the vitamin is also used to help treat peripheral neuropathy, a disorder of the nerves that send information from the CNS to the rest of the body. In some countries like Japan, it is seen as a potential treatment for ALS.”

One body of research suggests that methylcobalamin was able to decrease homocysteine levels.

“Homocysteine (Hcy) exerts multiple neurotoxic mechanisms that have also been shown to be relevant in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS),” reports the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Another study showed that ALS patients who received ultra-high-doses of B12 injections directly into their muscles showed improvement in muscle electrical activity only after just two weeks.

One study in Japan conducted with ALS patients showed that administering ultra-high-dose methylcobalamin therapy may improve the prognosis of patients. But, again, this appeared to only be evident in patients who started this therapy during early onset of symptoms.

Be Smart & Safe About Supplementation

This does not mean that you should be trying to get as much B12 into your body as possible in order to prevent or better manage ALS. If supplementation, especially when it’s used to treat a serious disease, is not administered by a competent healthcare professional, you may not end up receiving the benefits.

On top of this, when you supplement, you have to consider all of the other nutrients your body needs. And overdoing it on one nutrient may ‘knockout’ other essential nutrients that help keep you healthy. So you need to be mindful of all supplements you may be taking.

For example, taking potassium supplements may deplete B12 from the body. Furthermore, vitamin C supplements may affect the ability of your body being able to efficiently absorb B12 from foods. Vitamin C supplements may break down vitamin B12 in the digestive tract and increase the absorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract.

These are all reasons why routine nutrient tests are highly recommended. And remember to seek medical advice from a competent healthcare professional before you supplement, especially if you are battling a disease like ALS.

Enjoy your healthy life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. This team also includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, click here.  

Not Up for Debate: Get Enough Vitamin C or Risk Aging Rapidly

Originally published on phlabs.org

By Joy Stephenson-Laws, JD, Founder

As a young adult, I knew vitamin C was good for my health. I associated it with citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons or products like Emergen-C. And I recall learning somewhere in my educational process that people who didn’t get enough vitamin C in their diets may get scurvy. For example, some sailors on long voyages in the 17th and 18th centuries died from scurvy when they ran out of fresh food supplies. But I never met anyone who had scurvy.  

Scurvy severely impacts the immune system. It may cause the gums to bleed easily and become infected. The teeth may become rotten and start to fall out. If not treated, scurvy can be fatal. But with the prevalence of citrus fruits today, I did not think that vitamin C deficiency or scurvy was something I needed to worry about.  

I was wrong.

It has been reported that more than 40% of American adults have an inadequate intake of vitamin C. And while the deficiency may not result in bleeding gums and missing teeth, it might be enough to wreak havoc on our immune systems and make us age faster.

Vitamin C protects the immune system from deficiencies that may lead to cardiovascular illnesses and other diseases. It is one of the most important nutrients needed for our survival. It is also an antioxidant, which means it protects our bodies from free radicals and other harmful molecules. It is a major producer of collagen, which is the main ingredient behind the repair of bone and skin tissue, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and teeth. Vitamin C also helps moisturize and nourish the skin, which may increase skin elasticity and may even restore a youthful appearance.

People who smoke are likely to be deficient in vitamin C. Smoking may cause oxidative stress, which may result in a decrease of vitamin C levels. Smoking is so dangerous that even secondhand smoke may decrease vitamin C levels. Because of this, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) suggests that smokers need an additional 35 mg of vitamin C per day than nonsmokers. They haven’t determined a specific amount for those who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke.

Daily amounts of fruits and vegetables generally provide more than enough vitamin C. On the other hand, people who make a diet out of fast food and junk food or abuse alcohol and drugs increase their risk of vitamin C deficiency.  

The real victims of vitamin C deficiency generally reside in low-income and impoverished neighborhoods, where the environment may make them more prone to having an unhealthy diet. Of course, adding fruits and vegetables to their diet may be enough to offset deficiency.

People who suffer from malabsorption may also be deficient in vitamin C. Malabsorption is when the body is incapable of absorbing nutrients. The inability to absorb nutrients like vitamin C is usually caused by chronic health conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, cachexia and severe intestinal malabsorption.

Vitamin C cannot be naturally produced by the human body, making it a crucial dietary component. In order for us to maintain a healthy intake of vitamin C, we have to consume it.

Vitamin C can usually be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables such as oranges, watermelon, green and red peppers, grapefruit, tomatoes, spinach, papaya, Brussels sprouts and cabbage.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for men is around 90 milligrams (mg) per day. For women, it is about 75 mg. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should increase to 120 mg per day. To put these amounts in perspective, one cup of raw oranges is about 95 milligrams. To get an idea about which foods contain vitamin C and how much, visit the National Nutrient Database. It is a great source of information.

But be careful! While it’s not a common occurrence, it is possible to take too much vitamin C. It’s not likely that a ton of vitamin C will be harmful, but there are negative side effects to look out for. When taking doses above 400 mg, the extra vitamin C is excreted in the urine. However, if you consume more than 2,000 mg, you may experience negative side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and nausea, heartburn, insomnia and even the rare case of kidney stones.

It’s never too late to get tested for vitamin C deficiency! The sooner you learn about your vitamin C levels, the sooner you can get back to living a healthier life.

Enjoy your healthy life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. This team also includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, click here.

Glutathione: Why you need to know about this powerful detoxifier

Originally posted on phlabs.org

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a “soldier” in your body who fights almost anything that could make you sick and age faster? Yes, the body has many ways of repairing itself, including abilities to bind and neutralize chemical free radicals and toxins, increase immune defenses, fight cancer and even combat aging skin. Most aging occurs when the human body is unable to deal with incoming environmental and other unhealthy stresses. Having little buddies inside you to elbow those nasty toxins and radicals can help!

One of the most powerful substances to do that is an antioxidant called glutathione.

What does glutathione do?

Glutathione:

• Helps prevent damage to cells by neutralizing harmful molecules generated during energy production.

• Plays a role in processing medications and makes them more digestible.

• Binds and inactivates cancer-causing compounds (carcinogens) in a process called cancer apoptosis.

• Is involved in building DNA, proteins and other important cellular components.

• Is protective against environmental toxins.

• Plays a critical role in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress.

• Helps the liver detoxify fat before bile is emitted, which takes stress off of the gallbladder.

• Reduces peroxides (natural bleaching agents that are harmful to the body).

• Helps detoxify methylglyoxal, a toxin produced as a by-product of metabolism.

• Plays a crucial role in immune function. It promotes T-cell function, which is critical for a strong immune system.

• And more!

What can you do to improve your levels?

Glutathione is predominantly produced by the liver. It does need certain amino acids (such as cysteine) and vitamins and minerals. Oral ingestion of glutathione is not very effective because it is quickly digested and broken up; thus, only a fraction reaches the liver and bloodstream. Intravenous glutathione (via an IV) may be effective at 200 mg.

However, there are several other ways how to improve your glutathione levels:

• Eat natural sulfur-containing foods such as garlic, onions and the cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, collards, cabbage and cauliflower).

• Whey protein can raise cysteine levels, which is a key building block of glutathione.

• Selenium, vitamin E and purple carrot extracts may improve antioxidant function by raising glutathione.

• Exercise has been shown to decrease oxidative stress through increased antioxidant enzymes activity, such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. Even low-intensity exercise can benefit antioxidant levels.

• Alpha-lipoic acid is a close second to glutathione in importance in our cells and is involved in energy production, blood sugar control, brain health and detoxification.

• Ginger oil was shown to be helpful in reversing radiation-induced intestinal damage by raising impaired antioxidant function again.

• Eat methylation nutrients such as folate, vitamin B6 and B12 because methylation and recycling glutathione are important antioxidant functions. Click here to read about methylation.

• Milk thistle supports liver function and can have positive effects on glutathione production.

• Avoid junk food. Decreased glutathione production occurs with poor nutritional habits, like eating junk foods. These increase inflammation and cause oxidative damage and impaired glutathione production.

Enjoy the benefits glutathione can have on your long-term health, and check back soon for a follow-up that goes more in-depth on what oxidative stress is and how you can be proactive to reduce it.

Enjoy Your Healthy Life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. To learn more about the pH Health Care Team, click here.