Empowering You Organically - Audio Edition

Latest Episodes:

Enzymes 201: The Power of Proteolytic Enzymes Mar 02, 2021

Show notes

Join Jonathan and Wade Lightheart dive deeper into understanding how enzymes are critical to your health and vitality. We really help you understand what you are looking for in an effective enzyme supplement. Tune in to understand what proteolytic means, the various enzymes needed in your digestive tract, the powerful punch of AstraZyme™, and why cultured enzymes matter.

About Wade Lightheart

3-Time Canadian All Natural Bodybuilding Champion who competed as vegetarian, former Mr. Universe Competitor, host of The Awesome Health podcast, Wade Lightheart is one of the world's premier authorities on Natural Nutrition and Training Methods. Having majored in Sports Science at the University of New Brunswick, he has authored numerous books on health, nutrition and exercise which have sold in over 80 countries. Wade also serves as an advisor to the American Anti-Cancer Institute. He's been in the health industry for over 25 years, coached thousands of clients, and is sought out by athletes and high-performance oriented individuals worldwide for his advice on how to optimize their health and fitness levels.

What Are Enzymes?

ENZYME - noun

BIOCHEMISTRY

a substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.

There are approximately 25,000 different enzymatic functions in the body
The number of enzymes that you have present in your body is directly proportion to the amount of chemical reactions that you can engage in in the body.
The difference between stones, plants, and people is enzymes, the amount and the role of those enzymes.
They are the most critical component to all metabolic transactions.

Enzyme Bank

It's like having a bank account. In other words, your ability to write metabolic checks, to build, to repair, to heal, to digest your food, to make your hormones work, to break down the smallest chemical reactions, to make your skin nice, you name it, requires an enzymatic pathway.

What is a PROTEOLYTIC enzyme?

also called protease, proteinase, or peptidase, any of a group of enzymes that break the long chainlike molecules of proteins into shorter fragments (peptides) and eventually into their components, amino acids. Proteolytic enzymes are present in bacteria, archaea, certain types of algae, some viruses, and plants; they are most abundant, however, in animals.
The two major groups are the exopeptidases, which target the terminal ends of proteins, and the endopeptidases, which target sites within proteins.

What to Look for in an Enzyme Supplement

Loaded up with proteolytic enzymes
Make sure it covers the various pH levels of digestion; 3.0, 4.5 & 6.0
Contains amylase to break down your carbohydrates
Contains alpha galactosidase, which will help break down some of the sugars that you will find in food
Contains glucoamylase, another one that'll cover the different range of sugars that you might consume inadvertently
Invertase, maltase, to help with hidden sugars that cause interruptions and metabolic problems and blood sugar issues
Contains lipase to break down fats
Contains phytase to break down plant fibers
Contains hemicellulose and the cellulase, which will actually break down those difficult proteins that are actually a fibrous protein
Contains lactase for people that can't digest milk (it's because they don't produce lactase)
Contains AstraZyme™ to bolster all the benefits
Enzymes are cultured

What is AstraZyme™

We studied Chinese medicine and found out there is a particular root, called the astragalus root, that is used in almost every single Chinese compound. When we found out why it was used, that it turns out that that particular root actually activates and accelerates, it increases the potential of the enzymatic response. So, we took that extract through this into that formulation as well and precise dosages. And that gave a 30 to 60% boost depending on the enzyme and its effectiveness.

What is a Cultured Enzyme?

A cultured enzyme means this is an enzyme grown on a very specific medium that allows you to increase the potency over a normal enzyme from 100 to 1000 times. This process takes about eight weeks to get that kind of potency. So just like if you were fermenting beer or wine or something, you've got to let it work for a period of time before you get that premium spirit. It's the exact same process inside of the enzyme formula. We're fermenting and creating a specific medium and then extracted enzymes. No chemicals are used in the extraction process. So, you just get the pure working enzymes to deliver an incredible result.

What happens if I don't have the protease in my body to break down the all the protein that I'm ingesting?

Gas
Bloating
Skin problems
Brain fog

The reason? Because you're feeding bad bacteria who are producing a variety of endotoxins inside the body that are interrupting your natural activity.

* * *

Deeper Dive Resources

Organixx Enzymes 17

https://organixx.com/p3e?gl=5e29babe02e26bdb05020909

Proteolytic Enzymes

https://www.britannica.com/science/proteolytic-enzyme

What Is the pH of the Stomach?

https://www.thoughtco.com/ph-of-the-stomach-608195

National Center for Health Statistics

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/digestive-diseases.htm

Digestive Diseases Statistics for the United States

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/digestive-diseases

Collagens: Hype or Healthy – Episode 15

https://organixx.com/empowering-you-organically/collagens-hype-or-healthy-episode-15/?gl=5d37204c02e26bc012183af2

Subscribe to Empowering You Organically Never miss an episode! APPLE PODCASTS SPOTIFY GOOGLE PODCASTS

Is Magnesium Your Health MVP? Feb 23, 2021

Show notes

Did you know that Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body?

According to the National Institute of Health…

Magnesium is a nutrient that the body needs to stay healthy.
Magnesium is important for many processes in the body, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure and making protein, bone, and DNA.

Let's dive a bit deeper into just how important Magnesium is to our health...

It acts as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes, regulating a number of fundamental functions such as muscle contraction, neuromuscular conduction, glycemic control, myocardial contraction, and blood pressure.
Magnesium also plays a vital role in energy production, active transmembrane transport for other ions (ATP), synthesis of nuclear materials, and bone development.
Important to note - magnesium deficiency has been associated with a wide range of diseases.

Magnesium and Nutrition

According to the United States Food and Nutrition Board, recommended daily allowance for magnesium is 420 mg for adult males and 320 mg for adult females, respectively.
Approximately 10% of the daily magnesium requirement is derived from water.
Green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and unprocessed cereals are rich sources of magnesium. Also, some magnesium is available in fruits, fish, meat, and milk products.
The majority of the population in the Western countries consume less than the recommended amount of magnesium, contributed by the consumption of processed foods, demineralized water, and agricultural practices using soil deficient in magnesium for growing food.
Many studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of magnesium supplementation.

Chronic Diseases Associated with Magnesium Deficiency

type 2 diabetes & metabolic syndrome
- Studies suggest that about 48% of people with type 2 diabetes have low levels of magnesium in their blood. This can impair insulin's ability to keep blood sugar levels under control
- One study which followed more than 4,000 people for 20 years found that those with the highest magnesium intake were 47% less likely to develop diabetes.

hypertension
- Magnesium helps lower blood pressure in people with elevated levels but does not seem to have the same effect in those with normal levels.

cardiovascular disease (e.g., stroke, atherosclerotic vascular disease, sudden cardiac death)
osteoporosis
migraine headache
asthma
colon cancer
Alzheimer's disease
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Other Areas of Health Where Magnesium Helps

May boost exercise performance

Magnesium helps move blood sugar into your muscles and dispose of lactate, which can build up during exercise and cause fatigue
Studies have shown that supplementing with it can boost exercise performance for athletes, the elderly and people with chronic disease
In a study, athletes who supplemented with magnesium for four weeks had faster running, cycling and swimming times during a triathlon. They also experienced reductions in insulin and stress hormone levels
Magnesium supplements have been shown to enhance exercise performance in several studies, but research results are mixed.

Magnesium Fights Depression

Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function and mood, and low levels are linked to an increased risk of depression
One analysis in over 8,800 people found that people under the age of 65 with the lowest magnesium intake had a 22% greater risk of depression.
Some experts believe the low magnesium content of modern food may cause many cases of depression and mental illness; however, others emphasize the need for more research in this area.
Nonetheless, supplementing with this mineral may help reduce symptoms of depression — and in some cases, the results can be dramatic.
In a randomized controlled trial in depressed older adults, 450 mg of magnesium daily improved mood as effectively as an antidepressant drug.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Low magnesium intake is linked to chronic inflammation (elevated C-reactive protein), which is one of the drivers of aging, obesity and chronic disease.
Magnesium supplements can reduce CRP and other markers of inflammation in older adults, overweight people and those with prediabetes.
In the same way, high-magnesium foods — such as fatty fish and dark chocolate — can reduce inflammation.

Magnesium Improves PMS Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is one of the most common disorders among women of childbearing age.
Its symptoms include water retention, abdominal cramps, tiredness and irritability.
Interestingly, magnesium has been shown to improve mood, reduce water retention and other symptoms in women with PMS

Magnesium Is Safe and Widely Available

Magnesium is absolutely essential for good health. The recommended daily intake is 400–420 mg per day for men and 310–320 mg per day for women.

You can get it from both food and supplements.

Food Sources

The following foods are good to excellent sources of magnesium:

Pumpkin seeds: 46% of the RDI in a quarter cup (16 grams)

Spinach, boiled: 39% of the RDI in a cup (180 grams)

Swiss chard, boiled: 38% of the RDI in a cup (175 grams)

Dark chocolate (70–85% cocoa): 33% of the RDI in 3.5 ounces (100 grams)

Black beans: 30% of the RDI in a cup (172 grams)

Quinoa, cooked: 33% of the RDI the in a cup (185 grams)

Halibut: 27% of the RDI in 3.5 ounces (100 grams)

Almonds: 25% of the RDI in a quarter cup (24 grams)

Cashews: 25% of the RDI in a quarter cup (30 grams)

Mackerel: 19% of the RDI in 3.5 ounces (100 grams)

Avocado: 15% of the RDI in one medium avocado (200 grams)

Salmon: 9% of the RDI in 3.5 ounces (100 grams)

Supplements

If you have a medical condition, check with your doctor before taking magnesium supplements.

Though these are generally well-tolerated, they may not be safe for people who take certain diuretics, heart medications or antibiotics.

Organixx's Magnesium 7:

MAGNESIUM CHELATE

This form of magnesium is especially important for muscle building, recovery, and health. [17]

MAGNESIUM CITRATE

Helps with the effects of obesity. In fact, one study found that this form helped arterial stiffness in healthy overweight individuals.

MAGNESIUM BISGLYCINATE

Often used to treat symptoms of excess stomach acid, such as stomach upset, heartburn, and acid indigestion.

MAGNESIUM MALATE

Some believe this to be the most bioavailable form of magnesium. It's found naturally in fruits, giving them a "tart taste."

Magnesium Malate can help with migraines, chronic pain, and depression.

MAGNESIUM ASPARTATE

This form helps the connection between your brain and muscles, your cardiac rhythms, and the overall acid-alkaline balance in your body. It also can support an elevated mood.

It is absolutely essential in the metabolism of macronutrients, as well as the utilization of other minerals, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E.

MAGNESIUM TAURATE

This is the form of magnesium best for your heart.

One study noted: "The complex magnesium taurate may thus have considerable potential as a vascular-protective nutritional supplement."

MAGNESIUM OROTATE

While also helpful for the heart, magnesium orotate is believed to be the best form for metabolic improvements.

This makes it a favorite for athletes seeking enhanced recovery, energy and performance.

RESOURCES

Magnesium and Human Health: Perspectives and Research Directions

Volume 2018 |Article ID 9041694 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9041694

Bertinato, C. Wu Xiao, W. M. Ratnayake et al., "Lower serum magnesium concentration is associated with diabetes, insulin resistance, and obesity in South Asian and white Canadian women but not men," Food & Nutrition Research, vol. 59, no. 1, article 25974, 2015.

https://foodandnutritionresearch.net/index.php/fnr/article/view/819

Grober, J. Schmidt, and K. Kisters, "Magnesium in prevention and therapy," Nutrients, vol. 7, no. 9, pp. 8199–8226, 2015.

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/7/9/5388

H. F. de Baaij, J. G. J. Hoenderop, and R. J. M. Bindels, "Magnesium in man: implications for health and disease," Physiological Reviews, vol. 95, no. 1, pp. 1–46, 2015.

https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physrev.00012.2014

Reported Dietary Intake, Disparity between the Reported Consumption and the Level Needed for Adequacy and Food Sources of Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Vitamin D in the Spanish Population: Findings from the ANIBES Study

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/9/2/168

Suboptimal magnesium status in the United States: are the health consequences underestimated?

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22364157/

Magnesium in Prevention and Therapy

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26404370/

Effect of oral magnesium supplementation on physical performance in healthy elderly women involved in a weekly exercise program: a randomized controlled trial

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25008857/

Oral magnesium therapy, exercise heart rate, exercise tolerance, and myocardial function in coronary artery disease patients

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16825271/

The effect of acute magnesium loading on the maximal exercise performance of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22760901/

Magnesium enhances exercise performance via increasing glucose availability in the blood, muscle, and brain during exercise

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24465574/

Magnesium in depression

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23950577/

Magnesium intake and depression in adults

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25748766/

Rapid recovery from major depression using magnesium treatment

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16542786/

Efficacy and safety of oral magnesium supplementation in the treatment of depression in the elderly with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, equivalent trial

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19271419/

Oral magnesium supplementation reduces ambulatory blood pressure in patients with mild hypertension

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19617879/

Effects of magnesium supplementation in hypertensive patients: assessment by office, home, and ambulatory blood pressures

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9719052/

A pilot study on the effects of magnesium supplementation with high and low habitual dietary magnesium intake on resting and recovery from aerobic and resistance exercise and systolic blood pressure

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24149738/

The effect of lowering blood pressure by magnesium supplementation in diabetic hypertensive adults with low serum magnesium levels: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19020533/

Nutrition by Food Search:

https://nutritiondata.self.com/tools/nutrient-search

Magnesium - Fact Sheet for Health Professionals

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/

Chelated Magnesium

https://www.drugs.com/mtm/chelated-magnesium.html

Effects of magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate supplementation on arterial stiffness in healthy overweight individuals: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

https://trialsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13063-019-3414-4

Magnesium Glycinate

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152090/magnesium-glycinate-oral/details

A pilot study of magnesium aspartate hydrochloride (Magnesiocard®) as a mood stabilizer for rapid cycling bipolar affective disorder patients

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0278584690900993

Complementary vascular-protective actions of magnesium and taurine: a rationale for magnesium taurate

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8692051/

Metabolic supplementation with orotic acid and magnesium orotate

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9794088/

Magnesium enhances exercise performance via increasing glucose availability in the blood, muscle, and brain during exercise

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24465574/

Effect of oral magnesium supplementation on physical performance in healthy elderly women involved in a weekly exercise program: a randomized controlled trial

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25008857/

A Critically Important Nutrient You Probably Don't Think About Feb 16, 2021

Show notes

Ready for some FREE education? So, let's talk about iodine. Iodine is essential for every function in your body including immune function, cardiovascular health, and metabolism. Of course, it's instrumental for the thyroid. That's one of the big things we talk about in connection with iodine since iodine is the foundation for thyroid hormone production. So, it's super important.

Do you ever think about iodine? Probably not. But you probably should! We're going to talk about iodine deficiency. We're going to talk in general about iodine; where did it come from, why it's important, and the different types or sources of iodine for your health. Tune in and get your learn on!

Iodine

The fact is that iodine is utilized for just about every function in your body. Yet many people are unaware of their body's need for iodine, and that iodine deficiency has reached epidemic proportions worldwide.

History of Iodine

Iodine was discovered in 1811
Iodine actually became the first modern medical treatment.
It was the first time in medicine that one remedy was used to treat one disease, and that was when iodine was used to treat goiters.
Iodine eventually became one of the primary antibiotics.
It was used orally as an antibiotic—it was used topically as an antibiotic.
Still today, we do use iodine in surgical rooms. We use it to paint over surgical wounds and things like that to make sure that they don't get infected.

Why Optimal Levels of Iodine Matters

Iodine deficiency has multiple adverse effects on growth and development, and is the most common cause of preventable mental retardation in the world.
Iodine deficiency disorders result from inadequate thyroid hormone production secondary to insufficient iodine.
During pregnancy and early infancy, iodine deficiency can cause irreversible effects.

10 Signs & Symptoms of an Iodine Deficiency

Swelling in the Neck - Swelling in the front of the neck, or a goiter, is a common symptom of an iodine deficiency. It occurs when your thyroid gland is forced to make thyroid hormones when there is a low supply of iodine in the body.
Unexpected Weight Gain – Low iodine levels may slow your metabolism and encourage food to be stored as fat, rather than be burned as energy. This may lead to weight gain.
Fatigue and Weakness – Low iodine levels may leave you feeling tired, sluggish and weak. This is because your body needs the mineral to make energy.
Hair Loss – An iodine deficiency may prevent hair follicles from regenerating. Fortunately, getting sufficient iodine can help correct hair loss that occurs due to an iodine deficiency.
Dry, Flaky Skin – Dry, flaky skin may occur with an iodine deficiency, as the mineral helps your skin cells regenerate. It also helps your body sweat and hydrates your skin cells, so an iodine deficiency can cause you to sweat less.
Feeling Colder Than Usual – Iodine helps generate body heat, so low levels of it may leave you feeling colder than usual.
Changes in Heart Rate - An iodine deficiency may slow your heart rate, which may leave you feeling weak, fatigued, dizzy and at risk of fainting.
Trouble Learning and Remembering – An iodine deficiency at any age may cause you to struggle to learn and remember things. One possible reason for this might be an underdeveloped brain.
Problems During Pregnancy – Getting enough iodine is especially important for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as they have higher needs. An iodine deficiency may cause severe side effects, especially for the baby, such as stunted growth and brain development.
Heavy or Irregular Periods – Some women with an iodine deficiency may experience heavy or irregular periods. This is because low thyroid hormone levels may interfere with hormones that are involved in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Different Kinds/Sources of Iodine

Salt

The addition of iodine to the U.S. salt supply started in the 1920s in response to a government health mandate. During that time, up to 40% of the population of the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region suffered from goiters and other thyroid diseases caused by extreme iodine deficiency . [Note: a goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland that results in a swelling of the neck.]
Adding iodine to table salt did help with the goiter epidemic, but that was about it. Nonetheless, it became the foundation upon which the U.S. RDA, or Recommended Daily Allowance (now called the Recommended Daily Intake, or RDI) was built.
Today, the RDI for iodine is 150 mcg/day for an adult and 220 mcg/day for a pregnant woman. This amount may stop goiters, but it's not enough for all the iodine needs of the body.
In order to make salt white and help it last longer, most manufacturers use a bleaching process. This adds dangerous halides such as chlorine and bromide to the mix, which block the body's absorption of iodine. In addition, other chemicals are often added to the salt, including manufactured iodide, sodium solo-co-aluminate, fluoride sodium bicarbonate, anti-caking agents, and aluminum derivatives.
If you are going to sprinkle salt on your food, most health experts suggest Himalayan pink salt or Celtic sea salt, which contains trace amounts of naturally-produced iodine as well as other essential minerals.

Food - Some foods are…

Seaweed, sea food, fish, eggs, spinach, dairy, strawberries, and cranberries.
Food alone is not enough due to the depletion of nutrients in the soil, as well as an increasing toxic load, has changed the amount of essential nutrients available in the foods we eat.

Potassium Iodine Tablet

Potassium and sodium are often part of the picture because they act as carriers for iodine that the human body can safely absorb.
Iodine in its natural state is unstable and even dangerous.
Scientists discovered a while ago that combining potassium with iodine to form potassium iodide can create a more stable form, which can be absorbed by the body.
The downside regarding potassium iodine for everyday use is that only about 20% of this kind of iodine can be assimilated by the body.

Alcohol-Based vs Glycerin-Based

The advantage of using a liquid for iodine transport is that it becomes more bioavailable to the body.

Alcohol based, however, is not the preferred method of liquid transport for several reasons.

Most alcohol used for supplements are simple ethanol or grain alcohols, the same kind that the bartender puts in your favorite martini – not appropriate for children, pets, and those with high blood pressure or recovering from alcoholism.
almost all alcohols are made with genetically-modified corn
acts as a drying agent

Glycerin - (also known as glycerine, glycerol, or glycerite) has many advantages – that is, if you can find the right kind.

Most commercial glycerin-based products, like commercial soaps, are sourced through animal products. A better option is vegetable-based glycerin. And the best of all is organic, non-GMO glycerin that is not made from soy or corn.
Retains moisture
Is antiseptic – good for burn salve
Won't upset blood sugar levels
Provides more stable shelf life

Nascent Iodine - is also known as atomic iodine, monatomic iodine, Atomidine, or colloidal iodine. The term "nascent" refers to iodine that has an incomplete number of electrons. This gives it an electrical charge, according to a report conducted by the non-profit Weston Price Foundation and others.

Many forms of dietary iodine break down into iodide in the digestive tract. In this state, iodine-dependent organs like the thyroid and reproductive organs cannot use it. The charge of nascent iodine helps it stay intact and absorb quickly and thoroughly into the organs that need it most.

Deeper Dive Resources

History of U.S. Iodine Fortification and Supplementation

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3509517/

NIH Fact Sheet for Professionals

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/

Iodine Deficiency - American Thyroid Association

https://www.thyroid.org/iodine-deficiency/

The Great Iodine Debate - Weston Price Foundation

https://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/modern-diseases/the-great-iodine-debate/

Iodine Articles in Organixx's INSPIRED Health Library

https://organixx.com/?s=Iodine&selector=art

Organixx Iodine

https://shop.organixx.com/products/iodine

Subscribe to Empowering You Organically

Never miss an episode!

This Anti-Aging Serum Breaks All the Rules Feb 09, 2021

Show notes

When Should You Start Using Anti-Aging Skin Care Products? The wealth of products available these days to target visible signs of aging such as fine lines, crow's feet, dark under-eye circles and dull skin are a gift and a curse. The options are so extensive that it can actually feel quite overwhelming figuring out a skin care regimen that works best. So when and where does one begin? Experts agree that skin starts to age around 20 years old and recommend that you start the road to prevention early. "I recommend my patients to start incorporating anti-aging skin care products in their 20s and 30s, when our skin slowly starts to lose collagen," says Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City. Face Serum Benefits for All Ages Just like it's never too soon to start being physically active or eating mindfully, this fundamental aspect of life also applies to skin care. Using serums loaded with incredibly important ingredients before you start seeing signs of aging and environmental assault means you'll be on track for getting (and keeping) the beautiful skin you want now and in the long term. Keep in mind that just like your body never "gets used" to eating nutrient-dense foods, nor does your skin get used to great ingredients. Your skin craves and needs generous amounts of beneficial ingredients like antioxidants, skin-replenishing, and skin-restoring ingredients because each group helps skin be healthy and stay young-looking. Using them now does not mean they won't work "when you really need them"; rather, they will be working for you every day of your life. Of course, these ingredients also work after signs of aging appear, but without question, sooner is better than later! Roots of The Aging Concept Referring to Greek mythology, the quest for immortality is embodied in the story of Eos, the immortal goddess of dawn. She falls madly in love with Tithon, a mortal human. Not supporting the idea of seeing him die, she claims for him eternity. Zeus agrees, but poor Eos realizes her mistake too late, as what she wanted for Tithon was not eternity but eternal youth. She will therefore be condemned to see him eternally grow old. This myth of ancient Greece refers directly to the current perception of aging: accept the temporary nature of life, while differing as long as possible the appearance of the signs of aging. Today, in industrialized countries, this quest seems strongly motivated by the fear of social exclusion. Indeed, a study conducted on a cohort of 1,713 American women, over 50 years old and mostly of Caucasian type, highlights a great psychological suffering based both on the image that these women have of themselves but also on the degrading image that the rest of society sends back to them. More than 50% of these women reported the perception of physical changes that occur during aging, notably sagging skin and wrinkles. Their cognitive adaptations to the physical experience of aging and the psychological experience of body image altered in parallel. This point is extremely important because it shows how much women correlate the initiation of their aging-related psychological malaise with the appearance of visible signs revealing their age. Let's get scientific for a minute… With age, our tissues lose their function and capacity to regenerate after being damaged. A study published today in Cell by scientists at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) and the Centro Nacional de Análisis Genómico of the Center for Genomic Regulation (CNAG-CRG) explains how dermal fibroblasts age. The main conclusion drawn is that these fibroblasts lose their cell identity, as if they had "forgotten" what they are, and consequently their activity is altered, thus affecting tissue. The study reveals the cellular and molecular pathways affected by aging and proposes that they could be manipulated to delay or even reverse the skin aging process. The skin is the most exposed organ of the body, and it functions as a barrier against external aggressions. It frequently experiences the direct effects of environmental exposure, including UV radiation and air pollution. Alterations in skin structure and physiology occur as natural consequences of aging and contribute to diminished skin health. These damages can be aggravated by external factors and, combined with lifestyle, result in significant biological alterations, characteristic of premature aging. A fibroblast is a type of cell that is responsible for making the extracellular matrix and collagen. Fibroblasts are large, flat, elongated (spindle-shaped) cells possessing processes extending out from the ends of the cell body. ... Fibroblasts produce tropocollagen, which is the forerunner of collagen, and ground substance, an amorphous gel-like matrix that fills the spaces between cells and fibres in connective tissue. Together, this extracellular matrix and collagen form the structural framework of tissues in animals and plays an important role in tissue repair. Fibroblasts are the main connective tissue cells present in the body. Dermal fibroblasts create long fibrous bands of connective tissue which anchor the skin to the fascia of the body. Therefore, without dermal fibroblasts, the largest and heaviest organ would not tightly adhere to body's frame. Why the Science Lesson? Organixx Skin has released REVERSE our anti-aging serum! When we were experimenting with formulations and ingredients, we did our science homework. We wanted to provide you with a clean, healthy, and effective product that helps turn back the hands of time. The synergy of the fresh, clean, and pure ingredients in REVERSE address the root cause of skin aging in the 21st century – the inside factors like diminished collagen production and aging dermal cells - as well as the outside factors like UV damage and environmental factors. Let's dive into each ingredient… Croda Juvinity™ Visibly reduces the signs of aging on the face and décolleté. Smoothes wrinkles, restructures and densifies the dermis. Juvinity™ delays cell senescence. It limits oxidative stress and telomere shortening to ensure optimal metabolism and replication rate as a young cell. Protects the cells from oxidative damage and ensures optimal mitochondrial activity. Reactivates the synthesis of major dermal constituents, preserves the cytoskeleton functionality and prolongs cell lifespan by maintaining telomere length. ARGAN STEM CELLS Referred to as "liquid gold", argan oil is fast-absorbing and known for increasing cell regeneration, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Argan oil is also rich in phenols and carotenes, antioxidants that protect the skin from aging free-radical damage. Argan stem cells are well known for their anti-aging properties. They are regenerative and work to strengthen skin's elasticity. Argan stem cells also penetrate the skin at a deeper level, so are able to help fight the signs of aging. Argan stem cells are the only proven stem cells with the ability to penetrate the skin's dermis, meaning they can help protect and revitalize human dermal stem cells! RASPBERRY SEED OIL Raspberry seed oil is rich in EFAs (essential fatty acids), primarily linoleic and linolenic acids. It contains very high levels of tocopherols (Vitamin E), which act as antioxidants, and carotenoids (Vitamin A). Because of its composition, raspberry seed oil possesses superior anti-inflammatory qualities which makes it a nice addition to face, lip and sunscreen products. Absorbs UV rays (Oomah et al., 2000) although its efficacy as a sunscreen has not yet been confirmed. Anti-inflammatory due to high content of alpha linolenic acid (the highest in any fruit seed oil) and phytosterols, therefore helpful for eczema and psoriasis. Very high in Vitamin E – an antioxidant. Antioxidants in skin care are important to prevent oxidative damage, which can lead to premature skin aging and skin cancer. Very high levels of phytosterols that can help reduce trans-epidermal water loss, thereby helping to keep skin moisturized. Phytosterols also help to repair skin damaged by environmental factors including sun damage. It's a great source of alpha linolenic acid – an essential fatty acid that has regenerative and anti-aging skin benefits. Red raspberry seed oil also has a low comedogenic rating of 0-1, meaning it's not likely to clog pores. CRANBERRY SEED OIL Cranberry Seed Oil, cold pressed from the seed of the super fruit, is unique among the fixed oils because it contains a very high essential fatty acid profile, along with a good mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols (vitamin E) content, high phytosterols, and a 1:1 ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 essential fatty acids which gives it excellent anti-oxidant activity and skin nurturing benefits. Cranberry Seed Oil contains one of the highest antioxidants and phytosterols content of any of the vegetable / fruit oils, making it an excellent addition to your natural sun protection products where it will help to prevent photo damage. Anti-oxidants that are consumed can reach the skin but, with free radical damage being the heaviest assault on the skin, and the cause of almost all of the signs of aging and unhealthy skin, it is beneficial to apply them topically where their protection can go to work immediately. Antioxidant Protection Skin Conditioning and Restructuring Vitamins A, C, E, and K Enhanced Cellular Function Aids in the Skin's Absorption, and Utilization, of Essential Fatty Acids Cranberry seed oil has the perfect ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, meaning it will absorb into your skin very well. Exceptional Skin Moisturizer Skin Tightening Activity Natural brightener. If your face is looking a little on the dull side, use this oil for a natural glow. TREMELLA MUSHROOM Tremella fuciformis is one of the great superfood mushrooms and longevity tonic herbs in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It's use dates back as far as 200 A.D. when it was including in one of the earliest TCM classics- the materia medica by "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing", the father of Chinese medicine. In ancient times, like many of the other revered medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi and Cordyceps sinensis, Tremella was only reserved for royalty, ruling family members or for rich people who could afford this highly valued superfood. For centuries, Chinese women have been consuming Tremella in its whole mushroom form and as a mushroom extract to make their skin more moist, soft and pliable. Its recognized as one of the best tonic herbs to help maintain the health of the skin as the body ages. Tremella mushroom belongs to the jelly fungus family and has many different names. In Chinese, it's called silver ear mushroom (pinyin: yín ěr), white wood-ear mushroom (pinyin: yín ěr), and in Japanese, it's called shiro kikurage which translates to "white tree jellyfish". It's also commonly known as "snow fungus" and the "beauty mushroom". Dermatologist Dendy Engelman, the director of dermatologic surgery at Metropolitan Hospital in New York City, says the fungus acts similar to that of hydration powerhouse hyaluronic acid by pulling moisture to the skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, so finding an all-natural match for its hydrating power is pretty major. And snow mushroom has an extra edge. "The particles are smaller than hyaluronic acid so it penetrates the skin more easily," says Engelman. Tremella mushroom has many restorative benefits but it's most famous for its beauty and skin enhancing properties: Nourishes Skin Naturally Moisturizes When applied topically, Tremella generates a natural hydration film on the skin that can help relieve dryness, support overall skin health by balancing optimal hydration and enabling the skin to develop elasticity and appear more supple and full. Improves Elasticity Tremella's ability to absorb into the deeper layers of the skin works to enhance skin elasticity and helps plump & smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. Even better, Tremella also has an incredible ability to break down free radicals - which prevents fine lines and wrinkles from forming in the first place! Slows Skin Aging Brightens Complexion Deeply Hydrates Inside and Out Boasts High Concentration of Vitamin D This mushroom also happens to be high in Vitamin D. When eaten, Tremella mushroom is the highest food source of the Vitamin D precursor, pro-vitamin D. When topically applied, Vitamin D has also shown impressive skin healing abilities. It helps cell growth, wound healing, and maintaining the barrier function of the skin. Basically, it's like nature's Band-Aid. And now for a less-fun fact?Between the ages of 20-70, the skin's natural ability to create Vitamin D decreases by 75%. This is why it's essential to support your skin with extra, high quality sources of Vitamin D such as Tremella. The nutritional profile for Tremella includes: ∙ Protein and amino acids ∙ Enzymes ∙ Vitamins ∙ Minerals ∙ Polysaccharides ∙ Beta-Glucans ∙ Flavonoids ∙ Carotenoids ∙ Beta-Glucans ∙ Phenols and polyphenols ∙ Alkaloids ∙ Organic acids In addition to being a potent immune stimulant, one of nature's richest sources of vitamin D and containing high levels of antioxidants, Tremella is brimming with medicinal properties, as you can see! Celery Seed Extract The essential oil of celery seed is derived from the celery plant, scientifically known as Apium graveolens from the Umbelliferae plant family. Celery is not just a vegetable used for salads and stir-fries, but it is a revered herb to the Chinese as early as in the 5th century and is even widely used in the Indian Ayurvedic medicinal area. Not only that, celery was held in high and sacred regard during the Greek era. In fact, it was believed that celery was used in the tomb of the famous Pharaoh Tutankhamun and mentioned in the works of the great and famous Roman encyclopaedist, Aulus Cornelius Celsus! All these examples mentioned attest to the high medicinal value of celery and the essential oil derived from its plant, so let's find out more about what celery seed essential oil can do to benefit our SKIN! Containing vitamins A, C, and K, celery extract is an antioxidant-rich ingredient that can help repel free radicals, ward off photoaging, and ensure continual cell turnover. Antioxidants are true powerhouses, both in skincare and in our diets – so suffice to say, we're thrilled to introduce this potent ingredient in REVERSE! Linseed Extract You've probably already heard of linseed oil which is often used in manufacturing paints and varnishes as well as inks for printing purposes. These days, it's being utilized in a lot of various products. Did you know that the linseed extract which is expressed from the oil-rich seeds of the flax flower is also highly employed in the production of cosmetics and skincare items? This is because it's also been proven valuable for enhancing the skin's appearance and health. Protects the cells from oxidative damage and ensures optimal mitochondrial activity. Linseed extract is extremely high in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein and zinc, which gives it strong anti-aging capabilities to reduce wrinkles and increase firmness. Three of the skin-altering conditions you can avoid if protected with linseed extract topically include; Inflammation, Aging, and Allergies ROSE GERANIUM ESSENTIAL OIL A rose geranium is a type of geranium plant with leaves that smell strongly like roses. This species of geranium is native to certain parts of Africa. It's also called rose-scented geranium, sweet-scented geranium, or old-fashioned rose geranium. The plant has v…

Full show notes at the publisher

10 Simple Ways to Practice Self-Care Feb 02, 2021

Show notes

What is self-care exactly? It's not just a trip to the spa! Learn how to slow down and really connect with yourself is a healthy way and tap into your inner healing. We share a list of 10 Ways To Implement Self-Care Daily on this episode.

We also discuss the myths we all tell ourselves to avoid self-care. Drop the guilt and learn what other myths keep you from providing yourself the self-care you need.

What is Self-Care? self-care /ˌselfˈker/ noun: self-care; noun: selfcare 1. the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health 2. the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress

Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.
Although it's a simple concept in theory, it's something we very often overlook.
Good self-care is key to improved mood and reduced anxiety.
It's also key to a good relationship with oneself and others.

What Self-Care Is Not

Knowing what self-care is not might be even more important. It is not something that we force ourselves to do, or something we don't enjoy doing.
Self-care is "something that refuels us, rather than takes from us."

Why Self-Care Matters

Stress is a toxin to your body. Science has now proven "chronic stress may also cause disease, either because of changes in your body or the overeating, smoking and other bad habits people use to cope with stress. Job strain — high demands coupled with low decision-making latitude — is associated with increased risk of coronary disease, for example".
Chronic stress adds to the Cortisol overload in your body as well. If your Cortisol levels are off the charts it's difficult release excess weight. Plus, elevated Cortisol levels have negative effects on your other hormones swimming around inside making it hard to get proper rest or even relax.
Remember that self-care is not optional, it's essential.

Bust Your Myths Around Self-Care

You feel guilty taking time for you. – This one is huge for people, especially women. You cannot serve from an empty well. If you don't fill the well there is nothing to give, which of course leads to more stress and guilt.
You don't have time. – This is an overused line, isn't it? I tell people 'there's no such thing as Time, it is a figment of your imagination.' While not necessarily true in the literal sense, it does hold truth. We are the Master of our time not the other way around.
You don't know how. – Ok, now this one should be a huge red flag if you tell yourself this. Why? Because it is a strong indicator that you aren't in touch with You. You've lost sight of your deepest wants, needs and desires. It's time to get reacquainted with You. Start digging deep to uncover You again.
Fear of doing something you truly love. Allowing other people's thoughts and feelings and criticisms to affect us, and to affect the decisions that we make in life.

10 Ways To Implement Self-Care Daily

Create a "no" list, with things you know you don't like, or you no longer want to do. Examples might include: Not checking emails at night, not attending gatherings you don't like, not answering your phone during lunch/dinner.
Promote a nutritious, healthy diet.
Get enough sleep. Adults usually need 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
In contrast to what many people think, exercise is as good for our emotional health as it is for our physical health. It increases serotonin levels, leading to improved mood and energy. In line with the self-care conditions, what's important is that you choose a form of exercise that you like
Follow-up with medical care. It is not unusual to put off checkups or visits to the doctor.
Use relaxation exercises and/or practice meditation. You can do these exercises at any time of the day.
Spend enough time with your loved ones.
Do at least one relaxing activity every day, whether it's taking a walk or spending 30 minutes unwinding.
Do at least one pleasurable activity every day; from going to the cinema, to cooking or meeting with friends.
Look for opportunities to laugh!

Other Ideas to Spark Inspiration….

Take time to identify the activities and actions that make you feel good.
Find somewhere quiet and meditate as needed.
Reread one of your favorite books.
Avoid triggers.
Watch shows that are funny or comforting.
Take time to yourself, away from others.
Get a full night's sleep regularly.
Check in with yourself.
Put on fresh, comfortable clothing.
Light a candle and fill your home with your favorite scent.
Take a hot bath.
Visit your favorite spot in the city you live in.
Don't feel guilty turning down invitations or canceling plans.
Take a day off of work if you need to.
Write down a list of things you are thankful for.
Remind yourself that this too shall pass.
Read inspiring quotes.
Spend time outside.
Listen to your favorite band or song on repeat.
Ask for help if you need it.
Do not force yourself to do anything you don't want to do.
Eat a balanced diet, but treat yourself to your favorite guilty pleasure.
Write down what you're thinking and feeling.
Breathe in and out.
Unplug from social media.
Listen to a calming playlist.
Pet an animal.
Do yoga.
Turn off your phone for a day.
Splurge a little.
Schedule an appointment with a therapist.
Watch your favorite movie or TV show from childhood.
Take a nap.
Do something that inspires and motivates you.
Make future plans for a trip or event you're excited about.
Spend time with a close friend or family member.

Deeper Dive Resources

American Psychological Association study abstract: Self-compassion, affect, and health promoting behaviors:

https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2014-38834-001

Krantz, D.S. & McCeney, M.K. (2002). "Effects of psychological and social factors on organic disease: A critical assessment of research on coronary heart disease." Annual Review of Psychology, 53 , 341-369.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11752489

Central effects of stress hormones in health and disease: understanding the protective and damaging effects of stress and stress mediators.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2474765/

Unihertz Atom, The Smallest 4G Rugged Smartphone in The World

https://amzn.to/2WQFnc8

MeetUp.com

https://www.meetup.com/

Immunity 3 - Essential Nutrients for Fighting Viruses Jan 26, 2021

Show notes

Join us this week as we talk about a proactive approach to supporting our immunity naturally. Learn about the three powerhouses in our new Immunity 3 blend; camu camu, zinc, and elderberry. Immunity Refresher The immune system has complex ways of fighting viruses, but viruses have complex ways of fooling the immune system and invading cells. That is why we need our immune systems ready for whatever floats our way! Things to remember: Nutrition may be the most vital component in maintaining — or gaining — a healthy immune system. It makes all the difference in the way your body fights off germs, but just as importantly, plays an important role in more minute functions like helping tissues repair and rebuild themselves and how your body reclaims flagging energy. To keep your immune system functioning at its best, some of the most effective strategies include avoiding sugar, sleeping well, minimizing stress and including fiber and probiotics in your meal regimens Not just vitamins and minerals, but proteins like collagen and free radical-fighting antioxidants can be introduced to your body through the foods you eat, and play vital roles in helping to keep your body functioning at its best. As the Chicago Tribune observes: "Collagen and its amino acids are essential to healing because they build tissues such as skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, blood vessels, bones and more. Antioxidants remove the harmful free radicals from the bloodstream that can impair the immune system, and vitamins and minerals play specialized roles in healing." Chronic stress can make you more susceptible to colds and the flu, as well as more serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes and other diseases. By practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation and laughter, you can keep your body from going into chronic stress mode. INGREDIENTS in Immunity3 Organic Camu Camu Camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a berry native to the Amazon rainforest. That sounds remote, but this so-called superfood has long been used to improve health and has become increasingly popular. Camu camu's purported health benefits include reducing the risk of chronic diseases thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Similar to tart cranberries, the camu camu berry is too acidic for most people to enjoy its natural state. It's generally processed as an ingredient in blended juices or freeze-dried into a powder that can be taken as a supplement, added to smoothies, or blended into other foods. Camu Camu is High in Vitamin C Nutritionally, camu camu is one of the most concentrated natural food sources of vitamin C. Camu camu is rich in vitamin C, a vitamin that acts as a powerful antioxidant in your body and is vital for the health of your skin and immune system. The fruit's pulp provides about 2,400 to 3,000 grams (or 2,400,000 milligrams) per 3.5-ounce or so serving. For context, the recommended dietary intake (RDI) for vitamin C is 60 milligrams a day. Because of its high vitamin C content, camu camu is also rich in antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Not JUST Vitamin C Beyond vitamin C, camu camu provides smaller amounts of potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and copper. Like most colorful berries, camu camu is a good source of polyphenols. Camu camu also has antimicrobial properties, and researchers have identified compounds in the fruit that have strong antimicrobial benefits. Supports Gut Health The dense punch of nutrients from camu can also support gut health and block free radicals and other pathogens from entering the body, according to studies, thus providing protection against bacterial infections, viruses and other issues. Remember your immunity is built in the gut! Additionally, a 2018 animal study even found that camu may help prevent obesity by positively altering the gut microbiota (highly tied to immune function) and by increasing energy expenditure. Several studies found that camu could leadto lowered fat accumulation and blunted metabolic inflammation, leading to improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Improves Liver Health As a powerful cocktail of antioxidants and phytochemicals, camu camu benefits the liver in several ways. The high vitamin C content is especially central to its ability to improve liver health. Research in 2010 showed that animals given camu camu powder showed significant signs of liver injury suppression. Specifically, an active compound called 1-methylmalate was isolated from Myrciaria dubia This study concluded that the 1-methylmalate in camu is one of the reasons why it can aid liver health. Enhances Mood Camu camu berries' high levels of vitamin C may help your brain to produce more serotonin, which will enhance your mood — which explains why it may act as a potential remedy for depression. In fact, research suggests people who have a deficiency in vitamin C often feel more depressed and lackadaisical. Vitamin C is an important cofactor required for the conversion of tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan in serotonin production. It's therefore possible that vitamin C from camu camu benefits patients with depression that is associated with low levels of serotonin. For example, in one study conducted at Montreal's Jewish General Hospital, it was shown that many of the patients who had decreased levels of vitamin C reported signs of sluggishness and depression. When given doses of vitamin C, they all responded with rapid and clinically significant improvement in mood. There is some concern that camu camu can interfere with some chemotherapy medications—you should always let your doctor know about the supplements you are taking, but especially so if you are receiving chemo, for example. Zinc Your immune system is your first line of defense against all disease, especially infectious disease, and there are many different ways to boost your immune system and improve its function. One nutrient that plays a very important role in your immune system's ability to ward off viral infections is zinc. Zinc is also a nutrient that plays many vital roles in your body. BUT…Because your body doesn't naturally produce zinc, you must obtain it through food or supplements. zinc is the second-most-abundant trace mineral in your body — after iron — and is present in every cell it's critical for the development and function of immune cells fundamental to skin health, DNA synthesis and protein production body growth and development relies on zinc because of its role in cell growth and division Zinc is also needed for your senses of taste and smell. Because one of the enzymes crucial for proper taste and smell is dependent on this nutrient, a zinc deficiency can reduce your ability to taste or smell Zinc lozenges were found to shorten the duration of common cold episodes by up to 40 percent in a study published in the Open Respiratory Medicine Journal. Those at risk of zinc deficiency include: People with gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn's disease Vegetarians and vegans Pregnant and breastfeeding women Older infants who are exclusively breastfed People with sickle cell anemia People who are malnourished, including those with anorexia or bulimia People with chronic kidney disease Those who abuse alcohol Elderberry Elderberry is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants in the world. Traditionally, Native Americans used it to treat infections, while the ancient Egyptians used it to improve their complexions and heal burns. It's still gathered and used in folk medicine across many parts of Europe. Elderberry refers to several varieties of the Sambucustree, which has clusters of white flowers and black or blue-black berries. The most common variety is Sambucus nigra, also known as European elderberry or black elderberry. Today, elderberry is most often taken as a supplement to treat cold and flu symptoms. Health Benefits of Elderberry There are many reported benefits of elderberries. Not only are they nutritious, but they may also fight cold and flu symptoms, support heart health and fight inflammation and infections, among other benefits. May improve cold and flu symptoms One study of 60 people with influenza found that those who took 15 ml of elderberry syrup four times per day showed symptom improvement in two to four days, while the control group took seven to eight days to improve. Another study of 64 people found that taking 175-mg elderberry extract lozenges for two days resulted in significant improvement in flu symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches and nasal congestion, after just 24 hours. Furthermore, a study of 312 air travelers taking capsules containing 300 mg of elderberry extract three times per day found that those who got sick experienced a shorter duration of illness and less severe symptoms. High In Antioxidants Antioxidants are natural components of foods, including some vitamins, phenolic acids and flavonoids, that are able to remove these reactive molecules. Research suggests that diets high in antioxidants may help prevent chronic disease Anthocyanins found in the berries have 3.5 times the antioxidant power of vitamin E Studies have shown elderberry juice may reduce the level of fat in the blood and decrease cholesterol. A study found that elderberry flowers inhibit the enzyme α-glucosidase, which may help lower blood sugar levels. Also, research on diabetic rats given elderberry showed improved blood sugar control Fights harmful bacteria:Elderberry has been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria like Helicobacter pylori and may improve symptoms of sinusitis and bronchitis May support the immune system: In rats, elderberry polyphenols were found to support immune defense by increasing the number of white blood cells RESOURCES Everything You Wanted to Know About Your Immune System https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2020/06/22/immune-system.aspx Top Tips to Boost Your Immunity https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2018/02/01/boost-immune-system.aspx Keep seasonal sickness at bay with these foods that boost immunity https://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/health/ct-foods-that-boost-immunity-20171207-story.html 11 things that can weaken your immune system https://www.rediff.com/getahead/slide-show/slide-show-1-health-11-things-that-weaken-immune-system/20110104.htm#1 Antimicrobial constituents of peel and seeds of camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28475419/ Antimicrobial constituents of peel and seeds of camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=antibacterial+activity+camu+camu Treatment with camu camu ( Myrciaria dubia) prevents obesity by altering the gut microbiota and increasing energy expenditure in diet-induced obese mice https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30064988/ Effects of diet supplementation with Camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia HBK McVaugh) fruit in a rat model of diet-induced obesity https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23460435/ 1-methylmalate from camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) suppressed D-galactosamine-induced liver injury in rats https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20208347/ Vitamin C rapidly improves emotional state of acutely hospitalized patients, study suggests https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/09/100923125123.htm Relationship Between Depression and Vitamin C Status: A Study on Rural Patients From Western Uttar Pradesh in India http://www.ijss-sn.com/uploads/2/0/1/5/20153321/ijss-08.pdf Zinc Is Key for COVID-19 Treatment and Prevention https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2020/10/26/zinc-for-covid.aspx Zinc – NIH Fact Sheet https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-Consumer/ Zn2+ Inhibits Coronavirus and Arterivirus RNA Polymerase Activity In Vitro and Zinc Ionophores Block the Replication of These Viruses in Cell Culture https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1001176 COVID-19: Poor outcomes in patients with zinc deficiency https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7482607/ Iron and Zinc Nutrition in the Economically-Developed World: A Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775249/ Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2277319/ Zinc and its importance for human health: An integrative review https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23914218/ A Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial of Oral Zinc for Chemotherapy-Related Taste and Smell Disorders https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4042409/ Zinc Lozenges May Shorten the Duration of Colds: A Systematic Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136969/ Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15080016/ Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4848651/ A Review of the Antiviral Properties of Black Elder (Sambucus nigra L.) Products https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28198157/ Phenolics in Human Health http://www.ijcea.org/papers/416-N0002.pdf Antioxidants and prevention of chronic disease https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15462130/ Edible Flowers: A Rich Source of Phytochemicals with Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Properties https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26270801/ Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in food – a review https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464614002400 Edible Flowers: A Rich Source of Phytochemicals with Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Properties https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26270801/ A systematic review on the sambuci fructus effect and efficacy profiles https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.2729 Flavonoid intake and risk of CVD: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23953879/ The Traditional Plant Treatment, Sambucus nigra (elder), Exhibits Insulin-Like and Insulin-Releasing Actions In Vitro https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/130/1/15/4686073 A Review of the Antiviral Properties of Black Elder (Sambucus nigra L.) Products https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28198157/ Evaluation of the immune defense in diabetes mellitus using an experimental model https://www.rombio.eu/rbl1vol16/17%20Badescu.pdf

Full show notes at the publisher

Collagens: Hype or Healthy? Jan 20, 2021

Show notes

The search term collagen has increased 40% already just in this year alone! So, is all the hype trendy or true? We've done the research and that's the question we answer this week! Did you know that your body naturally produces collagen every day? We dig into why supplementation is even a consideration. Did you know there are several different types of collagen? We've tracked them all down and explain the part each type plays in our body. Is collagen all about less sagging skin? Actually, no it isn't! Tune in to hear about the ways collagen benefits our health. We guarantee some will surprise you. Tune in for more no-nonsense information on what collagens are, how they may benefit your health, and what you need to look for when it comes to the products and foods, you're consuming.

What is collagen?

Dictionary result for collagen

/ˈkäləjən/

noun

the main structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues, widely used in purified form for cosmetic surgical treatments.

"vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen"

Different collagen molecules make up about ⅓ of the total protein in a human body
Found in bone, skin, muscles, and tendons
The substance that connects cells and gives skin elasticity as well as strength

Collagen and Aging

Your body naturally produces collagen every day.
After the age of 25, we break down more collagen than we make.
Collagen supplements are an easy way to add more collagen to your diet.
Collagen has been shown to reduce wrinkles, keep joints strong and flexible, support strong bones, and increase skin hydration.

Why is collagen so good for you?

Collagen is vital for maintaining the structure and integrity of your entire body.

#1 – Strong Cartilage and Muscles

Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that is made up of collagen When you lack collagen, joint instability, stiffness, and pain can result. Likewise, muscles need cartilage to adhere themselves to the ends of bones. This is why muscle aches are one of the most common complaints of individuals with low collagen levels.

#2 – Healthy Teeth.

Collagen is needed to keep teeth in place in the gums. Loose teeth, toothache, sensitive teeth, and even tooth loss can result from a lack of collagen overall.

#3 – Thick Hair

Collagen plays an important part in hair growth since it fills in the spaces around each hair follicle. One way to tell if you are collagen deficient is to notice the quality and state of your hair. Dull, thin hair is a sign of low collagen levels. Collagen also helps fight free radicals that can damage hair.

#4 – Smooth Skin

Wrinkling and cellulite are other unfortunate results of low collagen in the body. Not enough collagen means skin begins to lose elasticity and sag, causing those pesky wrinkles as we age. Cellulite is another telltale sign of low collagen.

#5 – Good Gut Health.

Collagen helps heal the gut because of its ability to "seal the gut." Leaky gut has been linked to autoimmune conditions and neurological conditions like autism.

Types of Collagens

There are over two dozen kinds of collagen, although roughly 85% of the collagen in the body is made up of Type I, II, or III (or a combination of these three types).

Type I collagen is the most prevalent type of collagen. It is the substance that makes up the skin, tendons, and bones as well as the structural framework of the organs. It should be your go-to for hair, skin, and nail health, especially for recouping lost collagen stores that occurs naturally as we age. It is also a "well-rounded generalist," in that it is a good type for supporting overall health. Type I is also found in the digestive tract, which makes it (along with Type II) great for gut healing and repair.

Type II collagen is the structural component of cartilage in the body. Because of this, it is great for the joints and to rebuild cartilage in ligaments, tendons, skin, and bones. Type II collagen contains a variety of specific amino acids that are particularly helpful for the body. The first one, again, is glycine, which is beneficial for brain health and metabolism. The second one is proline, which helps clean artery walls. Type II may also be good for the respiratory system, detoxification pathways, and more because it contains arginine, another amino acid that is vital for nitric oxide production. [Note: Nitric oxide is produced in the body and is beneficial for supporting blood flow and lowering blood pressure.] For the most part, Type II collagen is where you want to turn for joint health and possibly even for arthritis support.

Type III collagen is typically found where ever Type 1 collagen can be found as well as some other unique places. It is housed in what are called reticular fibers, the substances that make up connective tissue. It is also found in the muscles, bone marrow, blood vessels, and reproductive organs such as the uterus. Type III collagen is also crucial for the healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system. Low Type III collagen has been linked to ruptured blood vessels and can be life-threatening.

Type IV collagen helps to strengthen endothelial cells that form the tissue protecting organs as well as muscles and fatty tissue. Endothelial cells also line the majority of the surfaces along the digestive tract and respiratory organs.

Type V collagen helps create the surface of cells while Type X helps with bone formation. There are at least a dozen others, all doing their job to keep your body lubricated, moving, and functioning at its best.

How to Help Your Body Create Collagen Naturally

Eat a diet and live a lifestyle that promotes the healthy synthesizing of your own natural healing and repair mechanisms
Avoid UV radiation exposure

Do not smoke cigarettes
Reduce/Manage stress levels

What To Look For In A Collagen Supplement

Look for multiple types of collagens

Clean sourced and organic
Bio-Availability - what is the delivery system - fermented, sprouted
Whole food and not synthetic ingredients
Contains Vitamin C - Without adequate amounts of dietary vitamin C, the body can't actually form or store collagen
Be sure the manufacturer does consistent batch testing for heavy metals

Watch out for Natural Flavoring

Ingredient List for Organixx Clean Sourced Collagens, Multi-Collagen Blend:

Hydrolyzed Grass Fed Pasture-Raised Bovine Collagen Peptides,
Bovine Bone Broth Hydrolyzed Protein,

Chicken Bone Broth Collagen Concentrate,
Clean Marine® Wild Caught Hydrolyzed Fish Collagen Peptides,
Eggshell Membrane Collagen,
Acerola Cherry (natural source of Vitamin C),
Camu Camu (natural source of Vitamin C),

Silica from Organic Horsetail,
Zinc Gluconate,
Fulvic Acid,
and Pyroxidine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6).

Natural Flavors - Buyer Beware

Important to note, a governmental or independent agency does not approve or oversee the safety of the food flavors.

Deeper Dive Resources

INSPIRED Library:

All Collagen articles and recipes: https://organixx.com/?s=collagen&selector=art

https://organixx.com/what-is-collagen/

https://organixx.com/benefits-of-collagen/

https://organixx.com/collagen-benefits/

https://organixx.com/types-of-collagen/

https://organixx.com/collagen-gut-health/

https://organixx.com/benefits-of-zinc-collagen/

https://organixx.com/collagen-for-hair/

https://organixx.com/vitamin-c-collagen/

https://organixx.com/collagen-for-joints/

https://organixx.com/collagen-skin-health/

Food Babe - Vani Hari

https://foodbabe.com/the-differences-between-artificial-flavors-natural-flavors-organic-flavors-and-other-added-flavors/

The "Natural" vs. "Natural Flavors" Conflict in Food Labeling: A Regulatory Viewpoint. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29140655

Studies:

A randomized, double-blind, multicenter, controlled clinical trial of chicken type II collagen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.- To assess the efficacy and safety of chicken type II collagen (CCII) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with methotrexate (MTX).

CONCLUSION: CCII is effective in the treatment of RA. CCII is well tolerated, and the incidence of adverse events of CCII is lower than that of MTX.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18576295

Effect of Orally Administered Collagen Peptides from Bovine Bone on Skin Aging in Chronologically Aged Mice - In summary, the present study demonstrated oral administration of collagen peptides from bovine bone could improve the laxity of chronologically aged skin by increasing skin collagen content and ratio of type I to type III collagen, but it had no effect on moisture retention of skin.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707681/

An Overview of the Beneficial Effects of Hydrolysed Collagen as a Nutraceutical on Skin Properties: Scientific Background and Clinical Studies - Skin, the main barrier to the external environment, is subject to deterioration caused by dermatological disorders, environmental conditions and the intrinsic ageing process. This damage to both structure and function may be accelerated by smoking, alcohol consumption and chronic sun exposure (extrinsic components). All these factors may lead to the formation of wrinkles, the appearance of brown spots and skin thickening. One effective strategy to managing the skin ageing process is adopting a healthy nutritional approach to life, maintaining a balanced diet and a good supply of food supplements. This can restore the homeostasis of macro and micronutrients and support the physiology of cells and tissues in the skin. Hydrolysed collagen, an increasingly popular nutraceutical, is composed of low molecular weight small peptides, which are easily digestible, absorbed and distributed in the human body. Numerous clinical trials have now been performed showing the efficacy and benefits of collagen peptides on skin properties, such as hydration, elasticity and reduction of wrinkles. As a result, hydrolysed collagen can be considered an important weapon in the everyday fight against skin ageing.

https://benthamopen.com/ABSTRACT/TONUTRAJ-8-29

Dietary Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides Has a Body Mass Index-Dependent Beneficial Effect on Cellulite Morphology - The results obtained in this study demonstrated that an oral supplementation with specific BCP over a period of 6 months led to a clear improvement of the skin appearance in women suffering from moderate cellulite. In addition, the data showed the marked potential of BCP to improve the skin morphology of cellulite-affected areas, providing new evidence of BCP's beneficial effects and postulating a new therapy strategy for cellulite treatment.

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/jmf.2015.0022

24-Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity-related joint pain. - The results of this study have implications for the use of collagen hydrolysate to support joint health and possibly reduce the risk of joint deterioration in a high-risk group.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885

What's Nature's Most Versatile Healing Plant? Jan 12, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, we talk with John Malanca about Nature's most healing plant! We tackle topics like, what is cannabis, how it used medically, the difference between THC and CBD, and much more!

Fact: Most cancer patients do not die from cancer, but malnutrition.

John's Introduction into Medical Cannabis

In 2011, father-in-law was battling stage 4 lung cancer, couldn't eat, and was on oxygen 24/7.
Doctor gave him two weeks to live.
Started using a coconut oil capsule infused with raw and heated cannabis.
Within 24 hours he was eating, by day 8 he was walking around the house.
At the 3 month mark, switched to a full extract cannabis oil - administering a minute amount in the evening.

Within 6 months he was walking, driving, and Hospice fired him as a patient!
By the 9th month he had the first scan to show, "No evidence of recurrent disease."
After 17 lung and brain scans showing no evidence of recurrent disease! He is still healthy and happy today - 8 years later!

United Patients Group

Founded by John and Corrine Malanca to fill the information void surrounding medical cannabis.
Don't sell products - strictly education and information.
Teach local, state, international governments, as well as local, state and international medical institutions about medical cannabis.
All courses are CME approved continuing medical education.

What is cannabis? Cannabis (/ˈkænəbɪs/) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae.

Also known as Hemp if less than .03% THC in the composition of the plant

Three species may be recognized:

Cannabis Sativa – formulations that include more uplifting, "day time" feelings
Cannabis Indica - formulations that include more sedative and relaxing effects, including pain reduction

Cannabis Ruderalis - (not discussed in the interview) naturally low concentrations of THC occurring, more research is being done on this variation of the species
Cannabis Hybrid - formulations that are mixes of Sativa and Indica based plants made from crossbreeding
There are currently 483 known compounds in the plant.
The main psychoactive part of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although this is the main psychoactive components of the plant, it is also one of the main cannabinoids needed and used in medical treatments when Cannabis is on the protocol.
Contains at least 113 cannabinoids

Two Known Subtypes of Cannabinoid Receptors

First discovered in the 1980s. Located throughout the body. Part of the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory, and more that have since been researched. These receptors are all over our body, head to toe.

The CB1 receptor is expressed mainly in the brain (central nervous system or "CNS"), but also in the lungs, liver and kidneys.

These receptors are thought to be one of the most widely expressed Gαi protein-coupled receptors in the brain

The CB2 receptor is expressed mainly in the immune system and in hematopoietic cells.

These receptors are mainly expressed on T cells of the immune system, on macrophages and B cells, and in hematopoietic cells.
They also have a function in keratinocytes.
They are also expressed on peripheral nerve terminals. These receptors play a role in antinociception, or the relief of pain.

What are Cannabinoids?

A cannabinoid is one of a class of diverse chemical compounds that acts on cannabinoid receptors in cells that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain.

113 cannabinoids have been isolated from the Cannabis plant.
Research shows the effect of cannabinoids might be modulated by aromatic compounds produced by the cannabis plant, called terpenes as well as by the other cannabinoids.
This interaction would lead to the entourage effect.

Medical Uses

Medical cannabis (or medical marijuana) refers to the use of cannabis and its constituent cannabinoids, as well as terpenes, to treat disease or improve symptoms relief.

reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy
improve appetite in people with HIV/AIDS or cancer

treat chronic pain and muscle spasms (MS and other nerve related pain)
lessens tremors in Parkinson's Disease
control seizures
reduce pain of cluster headaches in minutes
cannabinoids are under preliminary research for their potential to affect stroke

THC has been shown to kill cancer cells
CBD has been shown to stop cancer cells and prevent the spread
Many more!

Delivery Systems - Ways to Consume Medical Cannabis

Sublingual absorption
Topical
Vaporization
Suppositories
Transdermal patches

Edibles

Interesting Statistics

This statistic presents the percentage of U.S. adults who would recommend medical cannabis to their friends as of January 2017. It was found that 62 percent of respondents aged between 18 and 34 years were likely to recommend cannabis.

This statistic displays the annual number of daily doses of prescribed drugs per physician in U.S. states with and without medical cannabis law, as of 2016. According to the data, physicians in states without medical cannabis laws prescribed about 95,672 daily doses of medication annually. Compared to that, the number was significantly lower in states which had a medical cannabis law.

This graph shows the number of legal medical marijuana patients by U.S. state, per 1,000 state residents, as of May 17, 2018. The state of Colorado had the highest rate of legal medical marijuana patients per 1,000 state residents with 15.86 patients

Region: United States Survey time period: as of May 17, 2018 Supplementary notes... No data available for: North Dakota, Ohio, West Virginia. * Arkansas has started issuing medical marijuana registry ID cards, but marijuana is not yet available in the state. ** California had 5,848 registered patients in Fiscal Year 2017/2018, but registration is voluntary and most patients are not registered. We made an estimate using the per capita number of patients in Arizona because of geographical proximity. The Marijuana Policy Project's (MPP) Feb. 2018 estimate for California, 1,256,550, used Maine's per capita number of patients. *** In presenting the number of medical marijuana registration cards printed, Maine's medical marijuana program website states, "This number is not an accurate reflection of the number of patients as it contains all certifications printed, including misprints, reissue of lost certifications and other anomalies." **** Washington listed 32,123 recognition cards created as of May 16, 2018, but registration isn't required to be a medical marijuana patient except for patients under 18. As a result, we created an estimate based on the per capita patient numbers in Oregon.

Deeper Dive Resources

John Malanca:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-malanca-7807956b

https://unitedpatientsgroup.com/about-cancer-and-medical-cannabis/

United Patients Group:

https://unitedpatientsgroup.com/

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedPatientsGroup/

Cannabis:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis

Indica vs Sativa:

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/sativa-indica-and-hybrid-differences-between-cannabis-types

Ruderalis:

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-cannabis-ruderalis

Cannabinoids:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabinoid

Entourage Effect:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entourage_effect

Side by Side Image of Cannabis and Lyrica:

https://unitedpatientsgroup.com/blog/2014/06/30/fibromyalgia-big-pharma-vs-medical-cannabis

Laws By State:

https://unitedpatientsgroup.com/Medical-Marijuana-Laws-By-State

Studies in 2018:

Cannabis-Based Pharmaceutical Improves Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Enzymes 101: The Micro Miracles You're Missing Jan 05, 2021

Show notes

Join Jonathan and Wade Lightheart today as he helps us understand enzymes. What they do, why they're considered micro miracles, and how your health depends on them. Plus, Wade helps us understand what we want to look for in a supplement. You don't want to miss this one!

About Wade Lightheart

What Are Enzymes?

ENZYME - noun

BIOCHEMISTRY

a substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.

There are approximately 25,000 different enzymatic functions in the body
The number of enzymes that you have present in your body is directly proportion to the amount of chemical reactions that you can engage in in the body.
The difference between stones, plants, and people is enzymes, the amount and the role of those enzymes.
They are the most critical component to all metabolic transactions.

Enzyme Bank

Our Current Food Supply is Lacking

In today's world, we've radically compromised the amount of enzymes that we're getting from our food, the quality of those enzymes, and we've added a host of agents that actually interrupt our body's natural enzymatic mechanisms and that is having consequences across the globe that are extremely dire.

Pottenger & His Cats

Francis Pottenger, Jr, MD, has given the cat world one of the best books available in the study of carnivore's nutrition.

From 1932 to 1942, Dr. Francis Marion Pottenger Jr. conducted a group of experiments to determine the effects of heat-processed food on cats.
Cats fed an all-raw diet were healthy while cats fed the cooked meat diet developed various health problems. At the time of Pottenger's studies the heat labile amino acid taurine had not yet been identified as essential for cats.
This work shows that the deficiencies Pottenger identified in cats correspond with those of a taurine deficiency and are the direct result of the lack of taurine in the feline diet.
The physiological effects of a cooked diet described by Pottenger in his papers were compared with data from recent studies on taurine deficiency in the feline diet. Results. Pottenger's main observations of near and far sightedness, cardiac lesions, increased stillbirth, low birthweight, poor kitten survival, and developmental abnormalities each correspond to published descriptions of taurine deficiency in cats with multiple references for each described condition.
Taurine deficiency is a strong explanation for the symptoms observed by Pottenger in his cat studies. Pottenger's own conclusion that there was an 'as yet unidentified, heat-labile protein factor' is realized in taurine.

4 Major Types of Enzymes

There are four major categories of enzymes and then there are derivatives of each,

Proteases which break down protein,
lipase which breaks down fats,
amylase which breaks down carbohydrates,
and cellulase which breaks down fiber in plants.

What happens if I don't have the protease in my body to break down the all the protein that I'm ingesting?

Gas
Bloating
Skin problems
Brain fog

The reason? Because you're feeding bad bacteria who are producing a variety of endotoxins inside the body that are interrupting your natural activity.

Disturbing Statistics from Wade's Research

In America today, 12% of the emergency hospital visits are related to gastrointestinal related illnesses. People going to the hospital in an ambulance because they're not breaking down their food.

A third of the population is suffering from digestive illness on any given day. And about 25% of the population is on prescription meds for this.

And the correlation between digestive disease and depression and challenges for brain function, because most of your neurotransmitters are built off amino acids that got to be broken down and transported from the gut to your brain is directly correlated with the lack of enzymes.

What to look for in an enzyme supplement?

Make sure it's at least half full of proteolytic enzymes and you want at least three proteases. The 3.0 the 4.5 and the 6.0 which relate to the spectrum within the pH band.
You want to make sure it has up in that that range of like 70-80,000 HUT (One FCC HUT unit of proteolytic (protease) activity is defined as that amount of enzyme that produces, in one minute under the specified conditions, a hydrolysate whose absorbance at 275nm is the same as that of a solution containing 1.10 g per mL of tyrosine in 0.006N hydrochloric acid.
Contains cultured enzymes.
Broad spectrum.
Contains AstraZyme

* * *

Deeper Dive Resources

Organixx P3E Enzymes

https://organixx.com/p3e?gl=5e29babe02e26bdb05020909

Pottenger's Cats - Research

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/6d5a/ae7b70dbbad5b25f8fa99e8d33c630366082.pdf

National Center for Health Statistics

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/digestive-diseases.htm

Digestive Diseases Statistics for the United States

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/digestive-diseases

Collagens: Hype or Healthy – Episode 15

https://organixx.com/empowering-you-organically/collagens-hype-or-healthy-episode-15/?gl=5d37204c02e26bc012183af2

Enzymes 201: P3E The NEW Powerful Proteolytic Enzyme

https://organixx.com/empowering-you-organically/enzymes-201-p3e-the-new-powerful-proteolytic-enzyme/

Detox Effectively Post Holiday Hoopla Dec 29, 2020

Show notes

Your body is designed to remove toxins and waste on its own. But do you know how to support it? Tune in this week to learn how! We all have a Natural Detox Response. When we activate this response in our bodies, we increase our ability to protect our immune system naturally and clear out the everyday toxins that find their way into our food, the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the surfaces you touch. Natural Detox Response When we activate this response in our bodies we: Increase our ability to protect your immune system naturally clear out the everyday toxins that find their way into your food, the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the surfaces you touch Your body is designed to remove toxins and waste on its own. And while your organs are there to keep you alive, each and every one of them plays its own role in keeping you healthy. There are 4 organs more than any others that work together to create your personal detox machine working inside of you right now… Your Liver acts like a filter in blocking out toxic substances in foods and drinks from passing into your bloodstream… Your Kidneys are working around the clock to then filter that blood and flush out those toxins when you use the bathroom. Your Colon puts in overtime taking care of the larger toxins and breaking them down with healthy bacteria before they can do you any harm… And Your Lungs play their part in filtering out the toxins that enter your body from breathing. As you can see, the human body was designed as a fully equipped detox machine. How To Support Your 'Detox Machine' You must take steps to support your body's Natural Detox Response System and I'm about to show you how right now... Once you begin to support your body's natural detox abilities, you'll notice that your body's "normal state" tends to shift toward health instead of inching toward illness. So what is it that your body needs to trigger your Natural Detox Response? DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #1 - Matcha Matcha tea is the "it" health beverage of the moment, but this amazing superfood is more than just a "fad" trend. The history of matcha for health goes back to the Tang Dynasty in China, which ruled between the 7th – 10th centuries. Over time, the matcha tea made its way to Japan, where it began to be incorporated into special tea ceremonies. And today, countless scientific studies show us just how powerful this little nutrient is. First, it boosts chlorophyll levels. Chlorophyll can help improve liver function, which also boosts your body's ability to flush out toxins. So, it's no surprise that it's been shown to help with the excretion of heavy metals, dioxins, and other persistent chemicals, And the second part of the magic of matcha is big energy without the crash. Unlike the caffeine that comes from coffee beans, the caffeine in Matcha is released slowly into your system along with L-theanine, giving you a steady supply of energy so your body's natural detox system can function at its highest levels. Other Benefits of Matcha: Protection against free radicals. You've heard about the antioxidant power of green tea, right? Well, matcha has 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea! And 20 times more than a serving of blueberries. Antioxidants are key to disease prevention and are one of the best ways to boost your health. Cancer prevention. Catechins, which are potent cancer-fighters counteracting the effect of pollutants, chemicals, UV rays, and radiation, are a unique set of antioxidants found only in matcha. According to the National Cancer Institute, green tea is one of the most powerful cancer-fighters. Calm alertness. Matcha tea is rich in the amino acid L-Theanine, which is what left those Zen monks (and me) feeling calm, yet alert and focused. While it is a component of all green and black teas, matcha contains roughly five times the amount of L-theanine. Linked to increased concentration, learning ability and even physical endurance, L-Theanine gives you a boost without the caffeine jitters. (6) As someone who absolutely cannot handle the caffeine in coffee, matcha is my go to pick-me-up. If your clients or patients struggle with caffeine jitters, a cup of matcha might be a better choice. Anti-aging properties. A common drink in Okinawa, Japan, one of the few Blue Zones, where people live the longest, healthiest lives, matcha is said to reduce inflammation and oxidation, contributing to anti-aging. Fat-burning properties. One study found that matcha tea increased thermogenesis, the body's rate of burning calories, by about 4 times the normal rate. Another study showed that drinking matcha before exercise resulting in 25% more fat burning. Improving heart health. Green tea has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, and lower incidence of heart disease and stroke in regular drinkers. (9) A recent Chinese study found that hypertension risk is lowered by up to 65 percent in regular green tea drinkers. Imagine the potential improvements to heart health in drinkers of the much more concentrated form of green tea that matcha is! DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #2 - Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) Don't confuse this plant for a weed like most people do. It's a part of the artichoke family, a superfood known for its incredible support of the liver - your body's central detoxifier. In Germany, Milk Thistle is still prescribed today by doctors to treat alcoholic cirrhosis, hepatitis, jaundice, and any inflammation or poisoning of the liver. Supports: Liver, Digestive Organs, and Lungs DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #3 - Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) Used for more than 2,000 years to stimulate appetite, support bile secretion, support liver health, this superfood is known for its support of your digestive system. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus), not to be confused with milk thistle (Silybum marianum), was once used to treat the bubonic plague. It's still used today for natural digestive comfort and can even be applied to the skin to support wound healing. Supports: Liver, Colon and Digestive System DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #4 - Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Licorice root is used to soothe gastrointestinal problems. In cases of food poisoning, stomach ulcers, and heartburn, licorice root extract can speed the repair of stomach lining and restore balance. This is due to the anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties of glycyrrhizic acid. Licorice is recommended to treat respiratory problems. Taking licorice as an oral supplement can help the body produce healthy mucus. Increasing phlegm production may seem counterintuitive to a healthy bronchial system. However, the opposite is true. The production of clean, healthy phlegm keeps the respiratory system functioning without old, sticky mucus clogging it. Supports: Digestive System, Colon, Lungs DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #5 - Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale) You may be most familiar with dandelion as a stubborn weed that never seems to leave your lawn or garden. However, in traditional herbal medicine practices, dandelion are revered for their wide array of medicinal properties. For centuries, they've been used to treat a myriad of physical ailments, including cancer, acne, liver disease and digestive disorders. From root to flower, dandelion are highly nutritious plants, loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins. What's more, dandelion greens provide a substantial amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, which is a type of soluble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of a healthy bacterial flora in your intestinal tract. Dandelion are a rich source of beta-carotene and polyphenolic compounds, both of which are known to have strong antioxidant capabilities that can prevent aging and certain diseases. Animal studies have shown that dandelion protect liver tissue from toxic substances and oxidative stress. Some research indicates that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which could support your body's ability to fight infection. Several test-tube studies found that dandelion extract significantly reduced the ability of viruses to replicate. Supports: Colon, Liver, Digestive System DETOX SUPPORT NUTRIENT #6 - Marshmallow Leaves (Althaea officinalis) Used by the ancient Greeks to remedy bruises and bleeding, and as a mild laxative. Europeans in medieval times used it for indigestion and diarrhea. And today it's still prescribed by doctors as a way to naturally soothe and support the intestines. Marshmallow leaves also have mild anti-infective and immune-supporting properties. That makes it perfect for gastroenteritis, peptic and duodenal ulcers, colitis, and enteritis. Supports: Colon, Digestive System Introducing: Organixx's NEW Organic Daily Detox Organic Daily Detox was designed specifically to boost your levels of these nutrients and feed your natural detox machine exactly what it needs to properly detox over the long run. The result? Better energy... Better sleep... Better ability to fight illness... And of course, a robust immune system you can depend on. Because Organixx is dedicated to the highest quality natural ingredients, a crystalized formula just made more sense. But there are other benefits as well. The first is potency. Most other detox "teas" just aren't made with enough quality ingredients to make any real difference to your health. They're watered down versions and are too weak to really do anything for you. The 2nd is freedom! With a traditional tea bag, you're forced to drink it as it is, with water. You're essential "bagged in" as I like to say and when your options are limited, you get bored quickly. But our specially formulated detox mix is perfect to be stirred into any of your other favorite drinks. It's made to mix easily so it's a perfect health boost in smoothies, juices or water. And because of the unique manufacturing process, any unneeded "filler" Liquids or compounds are extracted before it's turned into a crystalized format. It also makes Organic Daily Detox easier to drink. Simply take 1 or two scoops and drop it into hot or cold water. It mixes nearly instantly! RESOURCES Milk Thistle Benefits: 15 Ways This Super Herb Can Improve Your Health https://organixx.com/milk-thistle-benefits/ Detox Your Liver Naturally! (+ 7 Tips for a Healthy Liver) https://organixx.com/liver-detox/ 11 Signs Your Body Is Screaming for a Detox https://www.foodmatters.com/article/the-importance-of-detoxifying-your-body Detoxification Pathways in the Liver http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-011-9749-6_2 Chlorophyll and Chlorophyllin http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/chlorophyll-chlorophyllin Determination of catechins in matcha green tea by micellar electrokinetic chromatography. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14518774 Tea and Cancer Prevention https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/tea-fact-sheet Effect of Green Tea Phytochemicals on Mood and Cognition. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28056735 Body weight loss, reduced urge for palatable food and increased release of GLP-1 through daily supplementation with green-plant membranes for three months in overweight women. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24993695 Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21715508 Phytochemical Characterization of Low Molecular Weight Constituents from Marshmallow Roots (Althaea officinalis) and Inhibiting Effects of the Aqueous Extract on Human Hyaluronidase-1 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.6b00670# Infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria: a review of the global challenge. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19766888 Identification of medicinal plants of Urmia for treatment of gastrointestinal disorders https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0102695X14000477?via%3Dihub Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from Marshmallow roots (Althea officinalis L.): Cellular internalisation and stimulation of cell physiology of human epithelial cells in vitro https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874109006102?via%3Dihub Determination of Antioxidant Activity of Marshmallow Flower (Althaea officinalis L.) https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1081/AL-120039431 Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress as a major cause of age-related diseases and cancer. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19149749 Flavonoids--food sources and health benefits. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25272572 Dietary, circulating beta-carotene and risk of all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis from prospective studies https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4886629/ Effect of vitamin C on inflammation and metabolic markers in hypertensive and/or diabetic obese adults: a randomized controlled trial https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4492638/ Vitamin C and Heart Health: A Review Based on Findings from Epidemiologic Studies https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5000725/ Natural forms of vitamin E: metabolism, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and the role in disease prevention and therapy https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4120831/ Carotenoids, inflammation, and oxidative stress--implications of cellular signaling pathways and relation to chronic disease prevention. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25134454 Flavonoids, Inflammation and Immune System https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5084045/ Effect of silymarin plus vitamin E in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. A randomized clinical pilot study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26367736 Randomized controlled trial of silymarin treatment in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2671116/ Hepatoprotective effect of silymarin. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24672644 Effectiveness of inulin intake on indicators of chronic constipation; a meta-analysis of controlled randomized clinical trials. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25208775 Characterisation of antimicrobial extracts from dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) using LC-SPE-NMR. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25644491 Isolation and Identification of Compounds from Bioactive Extracts of Taraxacum officinale Weber ex F. H. Wigg. (Dandelion) as a Potential Source of Antibacterial Agents. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29507587 Inhibitory effect of aqueous Dandelion extract on HIV-1 replication and reverse transcriptase activity. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22078030 Taraxacum mongolicum extract exhibits a protective effect on hepatocytes and an antiviral effect against hepatitis B virus in animal and human cells. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24481875 Leaves Antimicrobial Activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3870067/ An Extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GutGard) Alleviates Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3123991/ Antiviral Activity of Glycyrrhizin against Hepatitis C Virus In Vitro https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3715454/ Subscribe to Empowering You Organically Never miss an episode! APPLE PODCASTS SPOTIFY GOOGLE PODCASTS

Full show notes at the publisher

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Empowering You Organically – Audio Edition

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected