Extracts ....

Do You Want to Radically Improve Your Health?


Then replace soda and other sugary drinks with clean, pure water.

Normalizing your insulin levels is one of the most powerful physical actions you can take to improve your health and lower your risk of cancer along with all the other diseases and long-term chronic health conditions mentioned above.

Fortunately, it is also the variable most easily influenced by healthy eating and exercise.

Dr Mercola: http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2012/09/10-diseases-linked-to-soda.html

 - - - - - - - - - -



With all of the attention surrounding diabetes these days, you’ve probably heard of a condition called metabolic syndrome—a collection of risk factors that are linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke. These risk factors include high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL (“good”) cholesterol, raised fasting glucose levels and a waist circumference measurement of 35 inches or more (think “beer gut”). If you have three of these five risk factors, then you may have metabolic syndrome, which puts you at increased risk of more serious complications.

Insulin resistance is the cornerstone of metabolic syndrome. Your pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which is necessary for the absorption and utilization of sugar in your diet. However, when you have insulin resistance, your body doesn’t respond as accurately to insulin, which causes the pancreas to produce more insulin.

This is where the merry-go-round starts, because the more insulin you have in the bloodstream, the greater your risk for type 2 diabetes.

Along with insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome. Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by narrowed blood vessels, inflammation and pro-thrombotic properties. In fact, it is one of the first signs of atherosclerosis and impending cardiovascular disease.

When the endothelial lining becomes damaged, NO production suffers, making all the blood vessels susceptible to inflammation, clotting and other negative effects.

While there’s little doubt that antioxidants play an important part in protecting the heart, a team of researchers recently examined the effect of one particular type of antioxidant—grape polyphenols—on the reduction of metabolic syndrome risk factors, especially the cardiovascular ones.²
Grapes contain numerous antioxidant polyphenols—anthocyanins, flavonols and resveratrol, to name a few. Resveratrol, in particular, has been shown to be extremely heart healthy by reducing LDL cholesterol and inflammation.^3-4 As many wine lovers know, red wine is high in resveratrol, and when consumed in moderation (one to two glasses per day), has some impressive heart-protective properties.

Go for the GrapeBecause metabolic syndrome has so many different factors, no simple pharmaceutical solutions exist to treat it. The best solution doctors can offer is to adjust certain lifestyle factors like diet and exercise. This, of course, is sound advice.

Everyone should be eating a clean diet and exercising anyway, but those with metabolic syndrome could see dramatic changes in their condition with these two changes alone. However, considering the proven health benefits of grape polyphenols, it’s great news indeed that this nutrient can now be added to your arsenal in the war against metabolic syndrome and its health effects.

A good way to make grape polyphenols a part of your daily regimen—particularly if you have metabolic syndrome or if you are at risk of developing cardiovascular disease—is to simply make red grapes a regular part of your diet. Eat them as is, or add them to salads and smoothies. And, as mentioned earlier, red wine is a good option to boost your polyphenol intake. Just be sure not to overindulge—drink no more than one or two glasses a day.

However, to achieve real therapeutic benefit, you may want to think about taking grape polyphenols in supplement form. Fortunately, polyphenols like resveratrol and grape seed extract are readily available at most health food stores and vitamin retailers.

http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2012/12/grape-polyphenols-reduce-metabolic.html

 - - - - - - - -



Increased blood level of homocysteine is a strong risk factor for the development of Alzheimer disease and dementia31. Three B vitamins, folic acid, B6, and B12, can help lower your homocysteine levels. Fortified cereal, other grains, and leafy green vegetables are good sources of B vitamins.

eMedExpert.com  http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2012/09/how-to-boost-brain-power.html

 - - - - - - - - - -

Omega-3 and Turmeric

The results from the third diet (Omega-3 and turmeric) were astounding. DHA has been shown in other studies to repair cell membrane damage but scientists discovered that the healing capabilities of omega-3 fatty acids include the ability to protect nerves after an accident or injury and to prevent cell death.

This total cellular protection is crucial to successful nerve injury recovery.

Curcumin’s role in recovery includes relieving and reducing inflammation, thereby preventing further nerve damage and speeding recovery. Curcumin is such a potent antioxidant that it has been shown to rebuild brain cells and aid in stroke prevention.

http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2012/10/spinal-cord-injury-omega-3-and-turmeric.html

 - - - - - - - - - -

Vitamin K2 and Natto

In the meantime, since nearly 100 percent of people don't get sufficient amounts of vitamin K2 from their diet to reap its health benefits, you can assume you need to bump up your vitamin K2 levels by modifying your diet or taking a high-quality supplement.

As for dietary sources, eating lots of green vegetables, especially kale, spinach, collard greens, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, will increase your vitamin K1 levels naturally. For vitamin K2, cheese and especially cheese curd is an excellent source. The starter ferment for both regular cheese and curd cheese contains bacteria -- lactococci and proprionic acids bacteria -- which both produce K2.

You can also obtain all the K2 you'll need (about 200 micrograms) by eating 15 grams of natto daily, which is half an ounce. It's a small amount and very inexpensive, but many Westerners do not enjoy the taste and texture.

If you don't care for the taste of natto, the next best thing is a high-quality K2 supplement. Remember you must always take your vitamin K supplement with fat since it is fat-soluble and won't be absorbed without it.

Although the exact dosing is yet to be determined, Dr. Vermeer recommends between 45 mcg and 185 mcg daily for adults. You must use caution on the higher doses if you take anticoagulants, but if you are generally healthy and not on these types of medications, I suggest 150 mcg daily.

http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2011/11/importance-of-vitamin-k.html

 - - - - - - - - -

These natural therapies knocked the cancer out

The doctor cured the boy's tumors with a combination of natural therapies, including:

• Hyperthermia: a gentle therapy that gives the patient an artificial fever to "bake" the cancer cells to death. Cancer cells "can't take the heat," but normal cells can.
• Oxygen therapy: Cancer cells die by the millions when they get a blast of oxygen.
• Laetrile and vitamin C by IV: These non-toxic therapies kill cancer cells and also quench free radicals. They are far more powerful when administered by IV than when taken by mouth.
• A strictly organic diet to give the body the nutrition it needs
• Detoxification therapies to get rid of the poisons that can cause cancer

Source:  The Amish Cancer Secret

http://www.cancerdefeated.com/amish-secret/index.php?

 - - - - - - - - -





Today, we know its cancer-curing effects are from its numerous anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds. Cabbage speeds up estrogen metabolism, which is thought to help block breast cancer and suppress growth of polyps, a prelude to colon cancer. According to research, eating cabbage more than once a week cut men's colon cancer odds by as much as 66 percent. As little as two daily tablespoons of cooked cabbage protected subjects against stomach cancer. Cabbage also contains powerful anti-ulcer compounds; its juice has shown to help heal ulcers in humans.
- Timeless Secrets of Health & Rejuvenation: Unleash The Natural Healing Power That Lies Dormant Within You by Andreas Moritz

http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2012/12/stop-stomach-ulcers-with-miracle-remedy.html

 - - - - - - - -



 Supercharge Your Health With Seven Medicinal Herbs & Spices

Ginger – Over 50 antioxidants have been found in ginger. It helps increase circulation, calms digestive problems. Ginger has also been used to treat food poisoning, shown to lower cholesterol, treat arthritis, reduce inflammation, and can be used to help increase insulin sensivity in diabetics.

http://healthticket.blogspot.com/2013/08/supercharge-your-health-with-seven.html

 - - - - - - - -

The research team was highly impressed with their results. Those who took the pomegranate extract showed a significant decrease in a specific, important marker linked to cell damage.

That marker, known as 8-Oxo-DG, can have detrimental effects such as:

• Lessened brain function
• Weakening of muscles
• Impaired kidney function
• Decrease in liver productivity
• Aging of the skin

Sergio Streitenberger, lead researcher at ProbelteBio, believes the study “demonstrates that the regular consumption of this pomegranate extract can slow down the process of DNA oxidation.”

The pomegranate’s ability to decrease 8-Oxo-DG suggests that it wields significant power as an anti-aging super food.

Pomegranate Benefits The Elixir of Youth Hidden in...

 - - - - - - - -

 - - - - - - - -

 - - - - - - - -

 - - - - - - - -

 - - - - - - - -

 - - - - - - - -

Could Carbs Help Us Live Longer?

Emerging evidence suggests a 10:1 ratio of carbohydrates to proteins may protect the body from the ravages of ageing

• By David Robson BBC

18 January 2019

The search for the “elixir of youth” has spanned centuries and continents – but recently, the hunt has centred on the Okinawa Islands, which stretch across the East China Sea. Not only do the older inhabitants enjoy the longest life expectancy of anyone on Earth, but the vast majority of those years are lived in remarkably good health too.

Of particular note is the number of people who reach 100 years of life. For every 100,000 inhabitants, Okinawa has 68 centenarians – more than three times the numbers found in US populations of the same size. Even by the standards of Japan, Okinawans are remarkable, with a 40% greater chance of living to 100 than other Japanese people.

Little wonder scientists have spent decades trying to uncover the secrets of the Okinawans’ longevity – in both their genes and their lifestyle. And one of the most exciting factors to have recently caught the scientists’ attention is the peculiarly high ratio of carbohydrates to protein in the Okinawan diet – with a particular abundance of sweet potato as the source of most of their calories.

“It is quite the opposite of current popular diets that advocate a high protein, low carb diet,” says Samantha Solon-Biet, who researches nutrition and ageing at the University of Sydney. Despite the popularity of the Atkins and Paleo diets, however, there is minimal evidence that high-protein diets really do bring about long-term benefits.

You might also like:

• The secrets of living to 200 years old
• Why we don't need nearly as much protein as we consume
• Why the age you feel means more than your birthdate

So could the “Okinawan Ratio” – 10:1 carbohydrate to protein – instead be the secret to a long and healthy life? Although it would still be far too early to suggest any lifestyle changes based on these observations, the very latest evidence – from human longitudinal studies and animal trials – suggest the hypothesis is worth serious attention. 

According to these findings, a low protein, high carbohydrate diet sets off various physiological responses that protect us from various age-related illnesses – including cancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. And the Okinawan Ratio may achieve the optimal dietary balance to achieve those effects.

The people of Okinawa remain active and independent into their 90s, and are less 

likely to develop age-related illnesses (Credit: Getty Images)

Much of this research comes from the Okinawa Centenarian Study (OCS), which has been investigating the health of the ageing population since 1975. The OCS examines inhabitants from across the Okinawa prefecture, which includes more than 150 islands. By 2016, the OCS had examined 1,000 centenarians from the region.

Rather than suffering a prolonged demise, the Okinawan centenarians appeared to have delayed many of the usual effects of ageing, with almost two thirds living independently until the age of 97. This remarkable “healthspan” was evident across many age-related diseases. The typical Okinawan centenarian appeared to be free of the typical signs of cardiovascular disease, without the build-up of the hard “calcified” plaques around the arteries that can lead to heart failure. Okinawa’s oldest residents also have far lower rates of cancer, diabetes and dementia than other ageing populations.

Genetic jackpot

Given these results, there is little doubt that Okinawa has an exceptional population. But what can explain that extraordinary longevity?

Genetic good fortune could be one important factor. Thanks to the geography of the islands, Okinawa’s populations have spent large chunks of their history in relative isolation, which may has given them a unique genetic profile. Preliminary studies suggest this may include a reduced prevalence of a gene variant – APOE4 – that appears to increase the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s. They may also be more likely to carry a protective variant of the FOXO3 gene involved in regulating metabolism and cell growth. This results in a shorter stature but also appears to reduce the risk of various age-related diseases, including cancer.

Even so, it seems unlikely that good genes would fully explain the Okinawans’ longevity, and lifestyle factors will also be important. The OCS has found that Okinawans are less likely to smoke than most populations, and since they worked predominantly in agriculture and fishing, they were also physically active. Their tight-knit communities also help the residents to maintain an active social life into old age. Social connection has also been shown to improve health and longevity by reducing the body’s stress responses to challenging events. (Loneliness, in contrast, has been shown to be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.)

A feeling of social connection can protect your health, while loneliness is thought to be 

as damaging as smoking 19 cigarettes a day (Credit: Getty Images)

It is the Okinawans’ diet, however, that may have the most potential to change our views on healthy ageing. Unlike the rest of Asia, the Okinawan staple is not rice, but the sweet potato, first introduced in the early 17th Century through trade with the Netherlands. Okinawans also eat an abundance of green and yellow vegetables – such as the bitter melon – and various soy products. Although they do eat pork, fish and other meats, these are typically a small component of their overall consumption, which is mostly plant-based foods.

Japan: Untold Stories

Welcome to BBC Future Now's Japan season, in which we explore the country's most exciting medical, technological, environmental and social trends.

You can discover:

The samurai swordsmith designing a spaceprobe
Why 'flammable ice' may solve an energy crisis
Ikumen: The rise of Japan's 'hunky dads'
The 'cathedral' protecting Tokyo from floodsArtificial meteors: the world's most ambitious fireworks?
The grand plans to mine ocean vents

The traditional Okinawan diet is therefore dense in the essential vitamins and minerals - including anti-oxidants - but also low in calories. Particularly in the past, before fast food entered the islands, the average Okinawan ate around 11% fewer calories than the normal recommended consumption for a healthy adult.

For this reason, some scientists believe that Okinawans offer more evidence for the life-enhancing virtues of a “calorie restricted” diet. Since the 1930s, some doctors and scientists have argued that continuously limiting the amount of energy you consume could have many benefits above and beyond weight loss – including a deceleration of the ageing process.

In one of the most compelling experiments, a group of resus macaques eating 30% fewer calories than the average monkey showed a remarkable 63% reduction in deaths from age-related diseases over a 20-year period. They also looked younger – they had fewer wrinkles and their fur retained its youthful lustre rather than turning grey. Due to practical difficulties, long-term clinical trials in humans have yet to be completed to test the effects on longevity, but a recent two-year experiment, funded by the US National Institute on Aging, was highly suggestive: participants on a calorie restricted diet showed better cardiovascular health – including lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

It’s still not clear why a calorie restricted diet would be so beneficial, but there are many potential mechanisms. One possibility is that calorie restriction alters the cell’s energy signalling, so that the body devotes more resources to preservation and maintenance – such as DNA repair – rather than growth and reproduction, while limiting ‘oxidative stress’ caused by the toxic by-products of metabolism that can cause cellular damage.

Sweet potatoes are one of the principle ingredients in traditional Okinawan cuisine (Credit: Alamy)

The benefits of the Okinawan Diet may not end with its calorie restriction.

Solon-Biet has conducted a series of studies examining the influence of dietary composition (rather than sheer quantity) on ageing in animals, and her team has consistently found that a high-carb, low-protein diet extends the lifespan of various species, with her most recent study showing that it reduces some of the signs of ageing in the brain. Amazingly, they have found that the optimum ratio is 10 parts carb to one part protein – the same as the so-called Okinawan Ratio.

Although there aren’t yet any controlled clinical trials in humans, Solon-Biet cites epidemiological work across the world that all point to similar conclusions. “Other long-lived populations have also been shown to have dietary patterns that include relatively low amounts of protein,” she says. “These include the Kitavans, [who live on] a small island in Papua New Guinea, the South American Tsimane people and populations that consume the Mediterranean diet.”

Once again, the exact mechanisms are murky. Like calorie restriction, the low protein diets seem to promote the cell repair and maintenance. Karen Ryan, a nutritional biologist at the University of California, Davis, points out that the scarcity of amino acids can encourage cells to recycle old material (rather than synthesising new proteins).

“Together, these changes may prevent the ageing-associated accumulation of damaged proteins within cells,” she says. This build-up of damaged proteins may usually be responsible for many diseases, she says – but the regular clean up when we eat a low-protein diet could prevent it.

So should we all start adopting the Okinawan Diet? Not quite. Ryan points to some evidence that low protein intake may limit bodily damage up to the age of 65, but you may then benefit from increasing your protein intake after that point. “Optimal nutrition is expected to vary across the life history,” she says. And it’s also worth noting one study, which found that the relative merits of protein and carbohydrates may depend on the protein's source: a diet higher in plant-based protein appears to be better than a diet rich in meat or dairy, for instance. So the Okinawans may be living longer due to the fact that they are eating (mostly) fruit and vegetables, rather than its high carb, low protein content.

Ultimately, the Okinawans’ health is probably due to a lucky confluence of many factors, Ryan says. “And specific interactions among these factors will also be important.” And we may need many more years of research to understand the importance of each of those ingredients before we finally come up with a true recipe for the “elixir of youth”.

http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20190116-a-high-carb-diet-may-explain-why-okinawans-live-so-long

Cordyceps and its role in sexual dysfunction

Priced at RM150,000 to RM200,000 (USD40,000 to USD50,000) per kg, the Cordyceps sinensis root is often mistaken for a mushroom, and has several nicknames such as “caterpillar fungus” and “Himalayan viagra”.

NOVEMBER 27, 2017

This is no cheap herb to get your hands on, and for a good reason.

Hailing all the way from the Himalayas, the Cordyceps herb can only be harvested during certain seasons of the year.

The root also boasts a variety of health benefits, including aiding in heart disease, energy levels and sexual dysfunction.

To find out more about Cordyceps, we speak to Eu Yan Sang senior nutritionist Kua Goh Yoke Lian to find out the origin of the herb and its benefits.

What is Cordyceps?

Cordyceps sinensis is actually a product of a parasitic fungus infecting moth caterpillars with its spores.

The fungus latches onto the caterpillar, then takes it over completely, killing the caterpillar in the process and mummifying it.

The entire caterpillar-shaped fungus is then collected, dried and preserved for medicinal purposes.

Is this still how it is made today?

Not necessarily. There are some forms of Cordyceps that are manufactured in the labs.

Although cultivated in a lab, this type of Cordyceps has a 99.6% similarity in its DNA to the natural Cordyceps. This is because it is cultured in a simulated natural habitat similar to the natural Cordyceps sinensis.

Is Cordyceps considered vegetarian?

It depends on your individual definition of vegetarianism.

Many people consider Cordyceps to be vegetarian as the caterpillar dies from the fungus infection, and not at the hands of humans.

However, those who are more devoted in staying away from meat may consider this to be non-vegetarian.

Also, Cordyceps can be manufactured in a lab and does not involve actual caterpillars in the process.

Are there many different types of Cordyceps?

There are many different species of Cordyceps, but the one associated with powerful health benefits and used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is Cordyceps sinensis.

This pricey herb is actually a result of a parasitic fungus infecting moth caterpillars and taking their bodies over completely, killing and mummifying them in the process. — Handout

What are some of the benefits of Cordyceps?

Cordyceps has been used for a long time in TCM to treat a variety of ailments.

• Cardiovascular system: It enhances the circulation of the blood, regulates blood pressure, and also strengthens the heart muscles, which in turn improves the cardiac function.

It also aids in regulating the heart rhythm, ensuring regular blood flow by hindering the clotting of platelets.

The herb remarkably increases cardiac hypoxia tolerance.

• Lung tonic: It is associated with something called the lung meridian in TCM. It helps in strengthening this meridian.

• Boosts respiratory function: Studies show that it can alleviate respiratory ailments such as asthma, tuberculosis and chronic bronchitis by protecting the lungs.

It decreases the production of phlegm as well.

• Boosts immune system: The Cordyceps fungus increases the growth of immune cells and promotes antibody production in the body, enhancing its resistance to bacterial, virus, yeast and fungal infections.

It helps with post-cancer recovery too.

• Anti aging: The herb has anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce weakness, stress and fatigue associated with aging, and boosts energy during over exertion.

• Combats sexual dysfunction: Cordyceps helps in boosting testosterone levels in men.

It also increases the energy levels and reproductive capabilities of both men and women.

• Kidney health: Associated with the kidney meridian, the herb strengthens the kidneys and other renal functions.

It also prevents excess toxins from accumulating in the body. It has a diuretic effect and thus, prevents kidney pain.

• Enhances energy levels, targets fatigue and exhaustion, and boosts exercise capacity: Awareness of this benefit was popularised by Chinese female athletes who obliterated three long-distance running world records during China’s Seventh National Games in 1993.

It takes care of oxygen utilisation by the cells and tissues of the body.

• Supports liver function: Studies show that it helps improve and restore liver function in cases of liver damage, such as from chronic hepatitis B and C infection.

What role does Cordyceps play in sexual dysfunction?

Cordyceps can effectively stimulate the secretion of DHEA from the adrenal cortex, which stimulates both men’s and women’s sexual function and energy.

Animal experiments show that Cordyceps can stimulate mouse MA-10 cells to produce progesterone, as well as significantly increasing testosterone, resulting in increased sperm formation.

For men, Cordyceps sinensis mycelium can effectively delay muscle fatigue, and promote and extend erectile capacity and endurance.

Generally, men feel a bigger impact than women in terms of sexual dysfunction when consuming Cordyceps.

How is Cordyceps typically consumed?

Cordyceps can be double-boiled to form a decoction, boiled into a tea, or consumed as a capsule.

It is usually recommended to be consumed once daily, using between four to eight grams of Cordyceps each time.

For a quicker option, there are also Cordyceps capsules and pre-packaged drinks with Cordyceps in them.

http://www.star2.com/health/2017/11/27/cordyceps-role-sexual-dysfunction/

5 life-extending benefits of resveratrol

The most familiar connection to red wine is the “French Paradox.” Researchers have discovered that in regions of France where the population enjoys a high-fat diet but consumes a lot of red wine with meals, the incidence of heart attacks is considerably lower than in other parts of the world.

They now believe that the benefits of red wine — that is the resveratrol found in the red wine — extends to brain health, cancer protection and longevity, in addition to being cardio-protective.

We can get the resveratrol compound from several foods, with grapes and wine being the most abundant sources. But resveratrol can also be found in seeds as well as skin and fruit of vaccinium berries such as bilberries, raspberries, blueberries and cranberries.

Here are 5 benefits of resveratrol that can help you lead a longer, healthier life:

1. It protects your heart

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the silent killer. It is the most common form of cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in the United States.

But cardiovascular disease is preventable and, in many cases, reversible — and diet plays an important role.

The most important use of resveratrol is related to the protection of the blood vessels and heart, which lies in its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood flow properties.

Resveratrol helps prevent damage to blood vessels, reduces “bad” cholesterol and prevents blood clots. For example, according to a study from the European Journal of Pharmacology, resveratrol helps protect you from atherosclerosis, or plaque build up in the arteries.

2. It helps you look younger

In an effort to look our best, we spend a fortune on facial creams, special soaps and other treatments designed to improve our appearance. But one of the most effective ways to look younger, researchers say, is to eat the foods that support the health of your skin.

A study at Newcastle University in England demonstrates that nutrients in certain foods can help facial skin cells help fight aging. The most potent of these natural chemicals are antioxidants that support mitochondria (cellular structures that produce energy) such as resveratrol found in red wine.

It may also slow the growth of the bacteria that lead to skin blemishes.

3. It prevents or inhibits some cancers

You may already know that calorie restriction turns on a certain set of genes called “sirtuins” that help you live linger.

Those same sirtuins can also help you survive – and protect you against – breast cancer.

Resveratrol is the compound that turns on sirtuins. So if you want to give yourself an epigenetic advantage against cancer, it might be a wise idea to add red huckleberries, cranberries, lingonberries and blueberries to your diet.

Several studies have also noted that resveratrol makes tumor cells more susceptible to chemotherapy and radiation treatment, increasing the chances of a full recovery from all types of cancer, including aggressive tumors.

4. It protects the brain

Inflammation is a major problem for people with Alzheimer’s. In fact, it’s what causes the brain damage that leads to the life-altering memory loss, confusion and personality changes that make the disease so scary.

But the good news is, if you know a disease is caused primarily by inflammation, it’s easier to figure out a solution.

And, unsurprisingly, the most promising solution for Alzheimer’s may be a potent anti-inflammatory compound… one that’s been revered for its health-giving properties for over a decade now… resveratrol.

So raise a glass of wine when you next dine on a delicious dinner from the brain-healthy list of foods (below), toast your good health, good fortune and youthful brain — and enjoy a modest serving of dessert if you want.

5. It boosts insulin sensitivity

There’s a nutrient that you already know has tremendous benefits for your heart and brain. It’s even anti-aging, but can also increase insulin sensitivity (improve insulin function) and lower blood sugar — naturally. It’s resveratrol.

In one study, 19 men with type 2 diabetes took a placebo or 5 mg of resveratrol (the antioxidant polyphenol) twice per day. Researchers asked the men not to eat foods with high amounts of resveratrol, such as red wine and grapes, peanuts and berries.

After four weeks, while the placebo group had not improved, men who had taken resveratrol had far fewer signs of oxidative stress, and much higher levels of a protein that helps cells absorb and use glucose. Doctors said this is the first study in humans to show that resveratrol improves insulin sensitivity.

How much is enough?

With supplementation of a nutrient, it’s important to know how much and what to take.

First thing to remember with resveratrol is that there are three, not two forms. There’s trans, cis and dihydro-resveratrol. All have health-enhancing properties, but the most studied and powerful for insulin function is the trans form.

Inexpensive resveratrol supplements will be in the cis-form. Even trans-resveratrol will turn into cis if stored improperly. This is why high-quality trans-resveratrol supplements cost a bit more.

Second, you want to take a high enough dose that it will have a positive effect on your whole body. That means not falling for the cheap 500 mg “resveratrol” pills and instead opting for at least 40 mg of pure trans-resveratrol each day.

https://easyhealthoptions.com/5-life-extending-benefits-resveratrol/

Are stem cells really the fountain of youth?

There are many claims that stem cells possess anti-ageing properties and other secrets to youth and regeneration. However, there has not been much scientific proof demonstrating these touted abilities.

August 27, 2017 

By tasnim syakirah

Human ESCs being generated by transferring cells from a preimplantation-stage embryo into a plastic laboratory culture dish that contains a nutrient broth known as culture medium. Photo: AFP

Dr Paul Lucas, an assistant professor of orthopaedics and pathology from the New York Medical College in the United States, notes that the words “stem cells” are thrown around far too casually, and that many people assume that they are a single type of cell.

“The definition of ‘stem cell’ is an operational definition.

“That is, it describes what the cell can do, and not any particular protein or other marker it can make,” he says.

According to him, a stem cell is a cell that can:

• Differentiate into at least one phenotype (cell type), and

• Has the ability to divide, with at least one daughter cell remaining a stem cell.

What are your views on stem cells being used commercially for anti-ageing purposes? For example, there are many pills and creams made up of stem cells that are said to “reverse the ageing process”. Do you think that these are legitimate?

Lots of hype, very little biology. I have written several answers on the website Quora that address this.

Pills and creams are not legit.

The skin has a barrier called the stratum corneum that prevents bacteria from getting inside the body.

The stratum corneum will also block stem cells, which are much, much larger than bacteria, in the form of a cream.

Any stem cell will not survive in a pill with no water. And of course, any cell will not survive the hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

So there is no way “stem cells” in either a pill or a cream can get inside the body.

Even if a stem cell could get inside the body, there is very little data that any stem cell will be anti-ageing – it’s a way to separate people from their money.

There are several reasons stem cells do not counter ageing.

Stem cells are not magic. They are not magic pixie dust you can sprinkle on everything and make it be perfect.

Ageing has many causes. One of them is DNA and cellular damage.

It is thought that the various adult stem cells are the cells of origin of cancer. The data is very solid for at least hepatomas and leukaemias.

That means that stem cells can suffer mutations that alter cellular function – degrading it in some cases, and causing it to go haywire and be cancer in others.

Also, how are stem cells to be “injected”? Into each tissue? Every muscle, organ, tendon, ligament, etc?

Or are the stem cells to be injected into a vein and travel to all parts of the body?

There are two technical problems with this:

• Injecting into a vein means that most of the cells are going to be trapped in the lungs before they go out to the rest of the body, as our veins all lead first to our heart, then our lungs.

• Blood vessels are sealed tubes. Think pipes.

Just how are the stem cells supposed to exit the pipes?

This is especially true for reversing ageing in the most important organ – the brain.

The neural tissue in the brain is separated from the blood vessels by another layer of tissue called the blood-brain barrier.

Even if stem cells got out of the blood vessels in the brain, they are not going to get to the neural tissue, which is the tissue that needs to rejuvenate.

There is no way any injected stem cells are just going to magically replace all the aged cells in the body.

Stem cells are a class of undifferentiated cells that are able to differentiate into specialised cell types. Photo: 123rf.com

I read that when products use stem cells from plants, they are only using growth factors. Can you explain what this means?

Plants are very different from us. No cell from a plant is going to be able to incorporate into our tissues and act like a stem cell.

Many mammalian stem cells – particularly mesenchymal stem cells– synthesise and secrete several proteins.

Some of these proteins are “growth factors” in that they cause other cells to divide.

The claim seems to be that plant growth factors will have the same effect on human cells as they do on plant cells.

That is false.

Even some of the skincare people admit this. The following quote is from the website of a US-based skincare company that uses both human and plant stem cells: “That said, unlike human stem cells, the growth factors, cytokines and other proteins, which are the products of plant stem cells, do not have the ability to act in the same way in humans, as in plants.

“Plant stem cells communicate in a different biochemical ‘language’ that human cells do not recognise.”

What is the biggest difference between placental stem cells (PSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs)?

First is the source.

ESCs are the inner cell mass of a five to seven-day-old blastocyst, which is formed after the sperm successfully fertilises the egg.

PSCs come either from the tissue of the placenta itself or from the Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord.

Secondly, ESCs are pluripotent, meaning they are able to differentiate into every tissue of the body. They can also form tumours in our body.

PSCs are essentially adult stem cells that have limited proliferation potential, i.e. the cell has a fixed number of times it can divide before it dies. They are multipotent, meaning that they have the ability to form more than one cell type, and do not form tumours.

Finally, stem cell injections for sports injuries (such as knee tendonitis) are common, but expensive, in Malaysia. Do you advocate this treatment over surgery and do you think this type of treatment will be less costly in the future?

Probably less costly, but no more effective.

The treatment uses mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).

The discoverer of MSCs – Prof Dr Arnold Caplan – says they should be called “mesenchymal secreting cells”. Notice that he does not consider them stem cells!

MSCs secrete a large number of cytokines that reduce inflammation. It is inflammation that causes pain.

Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen also reduce inflammation.

A “stem cell” injection with MSCs is essentially putting little aspirin factories at the site of injury.

They reduce the pain, but do little or nothing to regenerate the tissue.

For young athletes, reducing inflammation will allow the body’s healing process to work better, and thus, improve outcome.

For older patients? There is less capacity for healing.

http://www.star2.com/health/wellness/2017/08/27/are-stem-cells-really-the-fountain-of-youth/

What you should know about stem cells

The mention of stem cell research might bring to mind images of embryos in a lab used to create products meant for the skin anti-ageing business.

September 18, 2016 Living, Viewpoints

By Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar

The mountain flower called Edelweiss contains leontopodic acids, chlorogenic acid and other ingredients that may promote younger-looking skin.

For most of us, it seems unnatural, perhaps even unholy, to even think of using such a controversial method of defying age.

But stem cells from embryos are not the full picture, as there is more than one kind of stem cell.

Here is a breakdown of the science behind these mysterious skincare products to help you navigate this brave new world of beauty.

Human stem cells

Human stem cells are a powerful tool in science. They are unique because they have the potential to become a specialised cell, and can divide and renew themselves.

In research labs, embryonic stem cells are preferred, as they are more flexible than adult stem cells.

They usually come from four- to five-day-old embryos left over from in-vitro fertilization.

The controversy occurs because obtaining these stem cells requires the destruction of the embryo.

As it contains a potential human life, many have questioned the ethics of using embryos.

Plant stem cells

On the other hand, plant stem cells offer the same ability to self-renew and replace specific plant cells in need of repair, just like human cells.

Plant stem cells used in beauty products are cultured in pollution- and pesticide-free labs.

This technology enables scientists to have more control over the quality and quantity of anti-ageing substances the plant produces; without toxins or chemicals sneaking in from an outside source, purer ingredients are created.

Stem cells, or more precisely, the messaging molecules that are harvested from stem cells, can offer these benefits in skincare products:

• Provide antioxidant protection

• Protect skin from photo-damage by ultraviolet (UV) radiation

• Protect skin from other types of oxidative damage

• Provide anti-inflammatory benefits

• Provide stimulation to epidermal stem cells

• Increase the longevity of skin cells

Edelweiss, a mountain flower made popular by The Sound of Music, contains leontopodic acids, chlorogenic acid and other ingredients that may promote younger-looking skin.

It is said to have anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective (cell-protecting) properties. It may also prevent collagen breakdown.

Centella asiatica (also known as gotu kola, daun pegaga, Asian pennywort, pang dai woon) is native to the swamps of Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and supposedly has anti-ageing benefits, among other uses.

Centella asiatica (also known as Gotu kola, Daun Pegaga, Asian Pennywort, Pang Dai Woon) has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and supposedly has anti-ageing benefits, among other uses.

It has also been found to increase collagen in the face.

Uttwiler Spätlauber is a rare Swiss apple that supposedly has “magical” anti-ageing capabilities. However, there is not enough information about this endangered fruit to be sure of its properties.

Raspberry cell cultures are said to moisturise and lock in hydration.

Other popular sources of plant stem cells harvested for ingredients for skin care products include lilac, algae and grape seed.

The key to stem cells

Stem cells release cytokines, a type of protein, as a way to communicate with each other. This is called cell signalling.

One type of cytokine is known as growth factor, which promotes cell growth, healing and differentiation. It is important to know about cytokines because the stem cells of humans and plants do not share the same chemical make-up. Attempting to regenerate new skin cells in humans by using plant stem cells is physiologically impossible and an exercise in futility.

What can be done, however, is harvesting plant stem cells for their growth factors. Adding growth factors to stem cell products can stimulate protein production.

Stem cells are broken up when harvested, preserving the signalling molecules while discarding the rest.

So, when a product claims to contain stem cells, what it actually means is that the product contains growth factors and signalling molecules that have been extracted from the stem cells.

Whole stem cells would not be able to get through your skin because they are too large to penetrate the skin barrier.

Even individual ingredients like molecules often have difficulty getting into your skin and entering the deeper layers.

Why so expensive?

Creams and serums with stem cell-derived ingredients are also more expensive to produce, compared to going out to a field and picking some plants.

Youthful-looking skin comes at a price. The higher-end creams with stem cell-derived ingredients can set you back a few hundred, perhaps thousands of ringgit. A lot of what you pay for is really the research and development.

Other popular sources of plant stem cells harvested for ingredients for
skin care products include lilac, algae and grape seed.

Another possible reason that these serums contain hefty price tags is that they are “a novelty”. In 20 years’ time, it is possible that you may find them at your local pharmacy.

Cutting-edge skin care ingredients are exciting, but one should remain wary of the claims made about stem cell products.

This is because the evidence behind those claims is still limited, and we are just at the beginning of much more to come.

My advice is, if you can afford to experiment without a guarantee it will work, then by all means go ahead and try stem cell products.

But if you have a limited budget, wait a bit for the industry to advance and focus your attention instead on ingredients that are already proven to deliver results to your skin, like peptides, retinoids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients.

There is a lot of promise when it comes to stem cell poducts, but some of the advertising is a bit overstated. The best advice to follow is if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is – buyers, beware.

http://www.star2.com/living/viewpoints/2016/09/18/what-you-should-know-about-stem-cells/