20
Jan
Supplementation for a Female Runner

Q: I am a female runner. I want to know which vitamins you think I should take. I feel like my resistant is low lately because I have been working out so much !

A: I would recommend a good energy supporting multi-vitamin.

  • Twice Daily Multi – Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement, take two capsules per day with meals or as directed by your health care practitioner.

Because this is strictly a multi vitamin, you would need to supplement your calcium/magnesium separately. Additional iron may also be necessary as well if you, still menstruate, are vegetarian or anemic.

Here are my favorites:

  • OsteoForce -superior absorption for promoting peak bone mass.  Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 tablets twice daily with meals or as directed by your health care practitioner.
  • Ferrochel Iron Chelate Capsules – a true chelate mineral supplements for optimal absorption.  Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement, take one to two capsules per day with meals or as directed by your health care practitioner.

Another choice in iron (popular with non-vegetarians)

Once you’ve completed a workout it is really important to replenish the the electrolytes you’ve lost.

  • Electrolyte Synergy- convenient powder packets mix easily with water.  And does not contain artificial colors or flavors like other sports drinks.  Recommended Use: As a dietary supplement, take one packet daily or as directed by your health care practitioner.

Protein Drinks can also help the body replenish.

  • EssentialMeal -Are conveniently packaged and fantastic for pre and post workout. Fortified with vitamins, minerals this pre-measured protein drink can be mixed with water.  Great for on-the-go.
  • PaleoMeal Organic Whey Protein – is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, as well as creatine, CLA, and fiber, this high quality, non-denatured whey protein promotes lean muscle mass, stable blood sugar, and supports optimum nutrition and immune health.

See you on the track!

Categories: Multivitamins, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health
Posted by Nutritionist PP

18
Jan
St. John’s Wort and Depression?

Q: I am currently taking St Johns Wort Plus caps by Genestra. My questions for today are,  what is the life of this product in my system? How long does its effects last upon ceasing to continue using it? How long can I continue to use St Johns Wort Plus on a daily basis?

A: In response to your question on St. John’s Wort Plus (active component – hypericin), the absorption and elimination of hypericin extract have been researched in healthy volunteers.8 After oral ingestion, plasma levels were measurable within two to three hours. A steep cumulative rise in plasma levels was seen during the first three days; however, a more gradual rise continued for several weeks. The elimination half-life was 24 to 48 hours.

Therefore, once you stop taking it the hypericin compound, it would likely have no effect after 2 days as it is depleted in your body.

The research on St. John’s Wort is positive for mild-to-moderate depression.  Meta-analyses of heterogeneous studies conducted over the past two decades, as well as several subsequent randomized trials, have reported St. John’s wort to be more effective than placebo and equally effective as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the short-term management of mild-to-moderate depression (1-3 months). Overall, the evidence supporting the efficacy of St. John’s wort in mild-to-moderate major depression remains compelling. However, the evidence for severe major depression and other depressive disorders (e.g., seasonal affective disorder) remains equivocal.

Extensive clinical trials of limited duration (<3 months) at recommended doses support the benign side effect profile and safety of St. John’s wort in individuals not taking other drugs.

Also, see our More Info Tab here: St. John’s Wort Plus

Here is a 2009 study with 440 out-patients who took St. John’s Wort for 1 year, with mostly positive effects:

Long-term effects of St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) treatment: a 1-year safety study in mild to moderate depression.

Lastly, I’m sure there are many people out there who have had good results with St. John’s Wort that have taken it much longer than the published research suggests, as long as it continues to help them with their depression.  The amount of time it remains helpful can likely vary from person to person, and also other medications a person is taking needs to be considered by a health professional prior to starting St. John’s Wort, as well as their mental and health status.

Fish oil can also be a helpful adjunct supplement in depression.  I see in the past you’ve ordered Cod Liver Forte from us.  I would encourage you to continue with your fish oil usage.  If you were not pleased with the liquid version, we do carry it in softgels Cod Liver Oil DHA/EPA by Genestra, and Finest Pure Fish Oil by Pharmax.

Hope this was helpful, thank you for being a loyal Rockwell client.  If you need further guidance, you do get a free 15 minute consult with each order if you wish.

Categories: Anxiety and Depression
Posted by Nutritionist PP

16
Jan
Can I take N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) long-term?

Q:  I have been taking the N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) product for about a year – 2 pills per day. I am wondering if this should be stopped for awhile and can taking it for too long a period hinder building up my immune system or cause any health problems.

A:  NAC is generally well tolerated. The most frequent complaints involve diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting with oral supplementation.  There is not a lot of published research on long-term oral use on this supplement in humans, though I do not see any research on it hindering the build up of immune system (i.e. glutathione levels).

Here are some studies:

Long-term N-acetylcysteine and L-arginine administration reduces endothelial activation and systolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes. - this 2008 study is done for 6 months, and the researchers good level of response during this time frame.

Formulation of a medical food cocktail for Alzheimer’s disease: beneficial effects on cognition and neuropathology in a mouse model of the disease. - this 2010 study combined NAC along with other nutrients in a medical food are a safe, effective and natural treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

Oral N-acetyl-cysteine attenuates loss of dopaminergic terminals in alpha-synuclein overexpressing mice. - this 2010 study is for 1 year, and showed benefit with NAC in reducing the processes that can lead to Parkinson’s disease.

“N-Acetylcysteine for Lung Cancer Prevention“, Van Zandwijk, Nico Chest, May 1995;107(5):1437-1441. (Address: Nico Van Zandwijk, M.D., Ph.D., The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

In large groups of patients with chronic obstructive lung disease N- acetylcysteine has turned out to be a safe agent with minor effects even when prescribed for a prolonged period of time. N- acetylcysteine is well tolerated when taken continuously in a dose of 600 mg per day. Dyspepsia has been reported as a mild side effect. N-acetylcysteine holds promise and it may turn out to be effective in preventing secondary tumors. It may have a wider use in chemopreventive purposes.

If you are getting negative gastrointestinal symptoms, it may be best to reduce your dose to 1 capsule of Amino NAC per day rather than 2 caps.

Categories: Brain Health and Memory, Pulmonary Health
Posted by Nutritionist SP

13
Jan
Natural Antibiotics for Tooth Extraction?

Q: I was curious to find out what options I had in regards to natural antibiotics. I am going to have a tooth pulled and would like to have something on hand should it get infected. I don’t do well on antibiotics and would like to avoid them – especially since I already have issues with Candida (I do take the HMF Forte religiously).

A:  Here are some recommendations I can make for you to get yourself prepared for your tooth extraction to fight infection and also to combat Candida yeast!

  • Black Walnut Capsules by Genestra - indicated for bacterial, parasitic and viral infections, including candida, fungus and yeast.  Take two capsules two times daily with meals following the tooth extraction.
  • Astragalus Combination #1 by Genestra - This would be helpful to take to support your immune system so it will be able to fight infection better.  Astragalus Combination #1 is a unique formula containing synergistic herbs known for their adaptogenic, antimicrobial and blood-purifying properties, required for the support of the immune system.

Take 25 drops three times daily, 30 minutes before meals.

I see your December purchase included HMF Intensive Capsule.  This would be good for you to take when you start on the Black Walnut Caps.  Take it with a separate meal, one per day until you finish the Black Walnut, once you finish the bottle, then increase the HMF Intensive to 2 caps / day (take with separate meals) for 1 week to really repopulate your intestines.  You can take longer at this dose if needed.

Categories: Antimicrobial Treatment, Candida, Dental Health
Posted by Nutritionist SP

11
Jan
Appreciate the service and professionalism of your company

I very much appreciate the professionalism of your company and that the consultation with a nutritionist is available to your customers.  Best for the New Year, Annie B.

Categories: Customer Service Testimonials
Posted by Nutritionist SP

9
Jan
How long can I take Herbal GI and HMF Probiotics?

Q: I’ve been using Herbal GI for awhile, is it safe to be using this formula over a long period of time? Should I try cutting down the dosage? I have excess acid (proven by tests) & I also have bouts of colitis. I also take HMF Forte Probiotic capsules, again same questions can you take it for long periods of time.

A: Herbal GI Formula can be used as long as it well tolerated by you. This product has been helpful for digestive issues, but some people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease do not tolerate peppermint well, though this is per individual. This product has a little bit of peppermint leaf, but not as strong as the oil of peppermint, so hopefully would not be problematic for you and your acid problem. Peppermint can also result in allergy/hypersensitivity for some, and should not be used, if this is the case.
As for the dosage: 2 caps, twice daily, if this is too strong, try cutting back to 1 capsule 2-3 times daily with a meal.

HMF Forte Probiotic capsules are very beneficial for most people to take daily for long-term good intestinal health, especially in those who suffer from intestinal disease. HMF probiotics are human-strain derived, and have superior adherence to the intestinal wall than dairy, soil or vegetable cultured probiotics.

Probiotics are measured in CFU’s – which is the measurement of how many beneficial organisms the probiotics provides. HMF Forte is a moderate-level maintenance probiotic providing apporx. 8 billion CFU per serving. You can remain on this dosage to maintain a healthy intestinal digestive system. However if you were looking to reduce your CFU servings HMF capsules provide a low-level maintenance of 4 billion CFU, however, people with intestinal issues usually have better outcomes when taking higher levels of probiotics over-time.

Categories: Gastrointestinal, Digestion & Gas
Posted by Nutritionist SP

6
Jan
What can I do about my constant burping?

Q: I tend to burp often, do you have any suggestions?

A: If you are suffering from burping, it sounds like you are having issues with your digestion.  To help with your digestion I would recommend:

  • HMF Intensive no FOS Probiotics Capsules – FOS is an ingredient often found in probiotics, however it can sometimes cause gas.  HMF Intensive does not contain FOS, and yet provides a high level of beneficial probiotics to populate your intestinal tract and crowd out yeast and other undesirable organisms.  Recommended Adult Dose: Take 1-2 capsule daily after all meals.
  • Digest Plus is indicated for digestive disorders such as flatulence, constipation, bloating, indigestion.  Recommended Adult Dose: Adults: Take one tablet with each meal, or as recommended by your health care practitioner.  However, this product should not be taken if you have an ulcer or acid reflux.

I hope this helps!

Categories: Gastrointestinal, Digestion & Gas
Posted by Nutritionist SP

4
Jan
What do you recommend for migraines?

Q:  What do you recommend for migraines (I only have one kidney).

A:  We have a couple of good products for migraines.

Migranol by Designs For Health (DFH) - have you tried this before?  Take three capsules per day with meals.  Double check with your doctor that the ingredients are okay for your kidney status, but as far as I know, it should be fine.

The main ingredient in this product is Feverfew, which when taken consistently overtime has a good record of migraine prevention.  Here is a bit of helpful info for you in making your decision:

Pre-clinical studies that report anti-inflammatory and vascular (inhibition of vasoconstriction) effects provide a biochemical basis for the migraine-relieving activity. Several controlled human trials have been conducted with mixed results (5;​6). Overall, these studies suggest that feverfew, taken daily as dried leaf capsules, may reduce the incidence of headache attacks in patients who experience chronic migraines.

Pre-clinical reports of platelet aggregation inhibition suggest a theoretical risk for increased bleeding.  Use with caution when used in conjunction with warfarin or other anticoagulant agents, by individuals at risk of bleeding, or prior to some surgical or dental procedures due to a theoretical risk of increased bleeding. When used by pregnant women or women trying to become pregnant, as traditional use suggests that feverfew may have abortifacient effects. With abrupt cessation of the herb in chronic users there may be a withdrawal syndrome, characterized by rebound headache, anxiety, fatigue, muscle stiffness, and joint pain (21). A risk of immediate hypersensitivity to the feverfew constituent parthenolide has been estimated in 2-3% of the population.

This is another product in which to consider:

Petadolex by Weber & Weber - it is more expensive, but may be worth a try if you for some reason cannot take Migranol or you take Migranol for a few months and are not getting the results you need.  For maximum benefits, Petadolex must be taken on a regular basis. Adults take 1 capsule 3 times daily with meals for 4 weeks. Thereafter, 1 capsule twice daily for 3 months. Do not use this product if you are pregnant or nursing.

Let me know if you have other questions & how it goes for you!

Categories: Migraines
Posted by Nutritionist SP

2
Jan
Can Natural Products rebuild hip joints?

Q: When I was at the family doctor in December, my hip was very bad ( I have hardly any cartilage left). I asked for a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. I personally do not think that my degenerated lumber area would stand a hip operation, but I can ask him. Since that time of the appointment I have started to do a lot for regeneration, including the Gemmo & homemade bone broth soup. I have never met a person who tried to regenerate with Gemmotherapy. My question to you is, can a person with severe deterioration built more collagen and bone with those natural products? I got a little better already with the Gemmo, but movement irritates the nerves in the back.

Unexpectedly I got an appointment for Jan. 17th with the Ortho. I know, you do not know me and you cannot make definitive statement. However I would like to know if a severely degenerate skeleton can recuperate over a long time?

My plan is to just have a preliminary evaluation and put an operation off till later. Preferably I would like to slowly heal.

A: It does sound like you do have a dilemma about doing a hip replacement surgery, but now that you have an upcoming appointment (maybe that was fate), maybe you’ll get a better picture of what the orthopedic surgeon would recommend for your particular case.

Regarding your question, I do think there is a point where a decision about surgery has to be made based on what your doctor thinks is best for you.  Natural products can only go so far to help in rebuilding & preventing further deterioration, and we really don’t know how far they can go because the research on them is somewhat mixed and inconsistent (I’ve included some published research links for you below).  However, once there is significant deterioration of the joints, you may be at significant risk for falling and breaking a hip.

Hip fractures are the #1 reason the elderly end up in nursing homes or assisted living.  Many folks put off doing a surgery, then they take a fall, and their brittle bones just break.  Healing takes a very long time when you have this type of situation, so I would advise you to take heed in what your doctor recommends, and if you don’t agree then see about getting a second opinion.  Perhaps, you may want to take a copy of your MRI or CT scan to your ND to see what he recommends.

My osteopathic doctor friend is a big fan of glucosamine + chondroitin sulfate to help with rebuilding cartilage, as it is quite helpful in arthritis and rebuilding cartilage and protecting against further damage.  It does work slowly, if you take it diligently over time.  We have a good one here:

Here are some research article abstracts which are a bit complex, but do support the use of these natural product ingredients, you can click on the links to read them:

Effects of chondroitin sulfate in the pathophysiology of the osteoarthritic joint: a narrative review.

Martel-Pelletier J, Kwan Tat S, Pelletier JP.

Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2010 Jun;18 Suppl 1:S7-11. Epub 2010 Apr 27. Review.

Joint injury and osteoarthritis: soluble mediators in the course and treatment of cartilage pathology.

Rutgers M, Saris DB, Yang KG, Dhert WJ, Creemers LB.

Immunotherapy. 2009 May;1(3):435-45. Review.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate as therapeutic agents for knee and hip osteoarthritis.

Bruyere O, Reginster JY.

Drugs Aging. 2007;24(7):573-80. Review.

The clinical effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements in slowing or arresting progression of osteoarthritis of theknee: a systematic review and economic evaluation.

Black C, Clar C, Henderson R, MacEachern C, McNamee P, Quayyum Z, Royle P, Thomas S.

Health Technol Assess. 2009 Nov;13(52):1-148. Review.

One other product we have that has the above ingredients + fish oil (omega-3), MSM, vitamin D, ginger and curcumin, is this:

Mobility 4 by Phramax - this is a bit more costly ($60).  You take 1 strip, twice daily, so one box will last for 15 days.  The ingredients not only help with the cartilage, but also support reducing inflammation and pain, as well as the vitamin D is important in bone remodeling.  This product would need to be discontinued prior to having surgery by 2 weeks due to the additional ingredients could affect platelets and blood viscosity.

The above product (Gluchochondro Formula by Pharmax) would last 22-30 days (depending on how many pills / day taken).

I hope this will be helpful information for you in your decision making process.  If you have any more questions before you order again, please let me know.

I hope that you’ll be able to make the best decisions for your hips.

Categories: Joint Health
Posted by Nutritionist PP

28
Dec
Calcium recommendations for Bone Health for a woman?

Q:  I have been taking CalMag Liquid 2 supplement giving me 600 ml of Calcium a day, plus taking Tofu moo which as 500 ml per scoop. If I was to quite taking the Tofu Moo I would only be getting 600 ml a day. Could I take the Cal Mag Liquid 2 twice a day, which would give me 1200 ml. I didn’t think that 600 ml is enough Calcium per day from one dose of the Cal Mag Liquid 2. PLease advise me what I should do.

A: The 2010 Dietary Recommended Intake (DRI) for calcium for women has changed since the 2000 DRI’s were published.  The amount recommended per day for most healthy women is 800 mg / day between the ages of 19 – 50 years old.  After 50, the recommend requirements is 1000 mg / day.

Calcium carbonate (in the Cal Mag Liquid 2) is the least expensive form of calcium. It is best absorbed with a low-iron meal (such as breakfast). Calcium carbonate is not absorbed well in people who also take a specific medication for gastroesophageal reflux (called a proton pump inhibitor or H2 blocker).  And it also blocks the secretion of stomach acid during digestion, so it is better to take it after some digestion has occurred after a meal by 30 minutes or so so the food has some time to digest well.

Calcium supplements should be taken in divided doses (eg, in the morning and evening). Doses above 500 mg are not absorbed as well as smaller doses.

Underlying gastrointestinal diseases — Patients who do not adequately absorb nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract (due to malabsorption) may require more than 1000 mg of calcium per day. In such cases, a healthcare provider can help to determine the optimal dose of calcium.

Calcium in the diet — The primary sources of calcium in the diet include milk and other dairy & non-dairy products, such as almond or rice milk, hard cheese, cottage cheese, or yogurt, as well as green vegetables, such as kale and broccoli (table 1). Cottage cheese and ice cream contain approximately 150 mg of calcium per 4 oz (120 mL). Other foods, such as dark green vegetables, some nuts, breads, and cereals, supply an average of 200 mg of calcium daily. Some cereals, soy products, and fruit juices are fortified with up to 1000 mg of calcium per serving.

So it is helpful to try to gauge how much calcium you consume in your diet during the day, then determine how much you need to supplement to meet your needs.

I see you purchased 15 bottles of the Cal Mag Liquid 2 in May 2011.  Maybe next time, you may be interested in trying this instead (see link below):

  • Cal Mag Berry Liquid Plus by Pharmax - this is a bit more expensive, but a newer and much better bone formulation product than the Cal Mag Liquid 2 by Genestra.  It has a better dose of vitamin D, plus vitamins A, K1 & K2, which are important for calcium regulation and bone formation.  Has Calcium (calcium carbonate/ citrate) 500 mg / TBSP.

Hope this helps!

Categories: Bone Health
Posted by Nutritionist SP

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