http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/protein-supplements-cause-bad-bodybuilding-and-fat-gain.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/protein-supplements-cause-bad-bodybuilding-and-fat-gain.html Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:41:46 -0600 Protein Supplements - Great Expectations

Protein powders and proteins shakes are a favorite subject of thousands of so-called experts in nutrition and bodybuilding. They treat this food group as if it is a miracle for muscle building. The reasoning is that muscle is made out of protein, so you have to eat protein to build more muscle.

This is only partly true.

All-Important Ingredients List

The key point that I'm going to make rests on the ingredients that protein supplements normally contain. To keep things simple, just consider the amount of each food group: protein, fat, carbohydrate (as sugars). This will be an eye opener if you have never read labels before.

Supplement Facts Labels of Three Protein Powders

Product 1: Serving size (34.6 g), Protein (20 g), Sugars (4 g), Total Fat (1 g)

Product 2: Serving size (29 g), Protein (24 g), Sugars (1 g), Total Fat (1 g)

Product 3: Serving size (30 g), Protein (22 g), Sugars (0 g), Total Fat (0 g)

These products all contain plenty of protein per serving. They also offer lots of fodder for me to write about regarding the folly of protein shakes as bodybuilding supplements or meal replacements. However, I just want to focus on one glaring item at the moment, which is:

...NOT ENOUGH FAT!

Key Missing Ingredient for Muscle Building

Fat.

Why is This So Important?

Everything you eat or drink is absorbed and used better in the presence of fat. Just today a research article appeared that showed the importance of using oil-based dressings for optimizing the antioxidant benefits of spinach salad. (By the way, we chemists classify fats and oils as the same kind of food group, the only difference being whether they are solids or liquids at room temperature.)

Here is the flip side of that comment: The low-fat craze and all of the low-fat diet plans are a plague on human health. There is no way you can be healthy without substantial amounts of fat in your diet, regardless of how much you weigh. Two hundred years of clinical and scientific research backs me up on this.

How to Make Protein Work for You

The easy advice is to get some fat or oil with your protein shake. Lots of it. Also keep in mind that carbs will undermine your effort, so keep them to a minimum. The products above are just fine in that regard. Some products will contain higher amounts of sugars, sometimes as much as 10 g per serving (!), so avoid those.

Products that are artificially sweetened pose too many threats to mention, especially if they contain aspartame. Ideally, protein supplements should contain no sugars or sweeteners or flavoring at all. These are hard to find.

Recommended Types of Fat

Of all the written nonsense about fats, you only need to follow these two rules for choosing dietary fats:

1. Eat all of the fats you want if they are made by Mother Nature.

Saturated, unsaturated, polyunsaturated, plant or animal - none of this matters. Eat them all.

2. Don't put a single molecule in your mouth if it is synthetic or processed in any way.

Trans fats or partially hydrogenated oils are obvious no-nos. Margarine and other fake butters are awful, too. Not so obvious are the vast majority of vegetable oils on the market. The worst of the worst are corn oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and cottonseed oil. If an oil is not cold-pressed, it is most likely processed by heat and clarifying agents. It is probably solvent-extracted, too.

Best Fats and Oils to Take With Protein Supplements

Flax oil (cold-pressed and kept refrigerated).
Coconut oil (solidifies below 75 degrees). Best for cooking, too.
Butter.
Fish oil (preferably from sources low on the food chain, such as krill).
CLA supplements.

The Latest Story on Eggs

Egg whites are widely acknowledged as a great source of protein. Egg yolks, on the other hand, have a Jekyll and Hyde history that is rather idiotic.

Egg yolks contain cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol is not the evil danger that the brainwashed masses (including medical doctors) believe it is. It is just part of the cholesterol myth that supports the multibillion dollar cholesterol drug industry. No judgment here - drug companies have invested billions of dollars into getting you to believe that cholesterol is a problem and that it can be solved by drugs.

More importantly, egg yolks contain a high level of a particular fatty acid, called arachidonic acid, that your body uses to make certain kinds of hormones. Some of these hormones regulate blood pressure and other cardiovascular functions. Others are highly inflammatory. Too much of them will cause a lot of pain.

The bottom line is that your basic health determines how much of the arachidonic acid from egg yolks goes into the synthesis of inflammatory, pain-causing hormones. It is not the amount of arachidonic acid that you get from egg yolks.

If you want to have a steak and four eggs for breakfast, go ahead. I do so on a regular basis.

Muscle Building vs. Fat Gain

Although this article may seem a little wordy to get the main point across, the information here is important so you can understand how to best use protein supplements for bodybuilding and for just staying lean.

If you want something simple to post on your billboard as a reminder, here are the keys to success:

1. Eat fat and/or oil with your protein shakes.
2. Avoid carbs when you have your protein drinks.

That's it!

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Dr. Dennis Clark is a retired research scientist and university professor, with more than 30 years of experience specializing in natural products chemistry and integrative medicine. He researches, reviews, and recommends the best sports nutrition and bodybuilding products at SupplementDocPros.com.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/promote-healthy-sinus-with-horse-radish.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/promote-healthy-sinus-with-horse-radish.html Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:28:31 -0500
Horseradish has been cultivated since ancient times. The Delphic Oracle in Greek mythology told Apollo that horseradish was worth its weight in gold. Horseradish was known in Egypt by 1500 BC and has been used by Jews from Eastern Europe traditionally in Passover. The plant is discussed by Cato in his treatises on agriculture. It is thought that horseradish is the plant known as Wild Radish by the Greeks. Both the root and leaves of the horseradish plant were used as a medicine during the Middle Ages, with the root used as a condiment on meats in Germany, Scandinavia, and Britain. This herb was taken to North American during Colonial times. It is not certain as to where the name horseradish come from. Some believe that it derives by misinterpretation of the German Merettich as mare radish. Others think the name comes from the coarseness of the root. The common thought in Europe is that it refers to the old method of processing the root called hoofing, in which horses were used to stamp the root tender before grating it.

For at least two thousand years, horseradish has been cultivated. It was brought to America by early settlers and used to treat conditions such as pain from sciatic, colic, and intestinal worms. Horseradish provides antibiotic action that is recommended for respiratory and urinary infections. The volatile oil in horseradish has the ability to work as a nasal and bronchial dilator. Internally, it has been used to clear nasal passages, alleviate sinus problems, help with digestion, work as a diuretic, aid with edema and rheumatism, and cleanse various body systems. Also, horseradish has been used to stimulate digestion, metabolism, and kidney function. This herb helps promote stomach secretions to aid in digestion. Horseradish can be used as a compress for neuralgia, stiffness, and pain in the back of the neck. Additionally, this herb can be used as a parasiticide.

The root of the horseradish plant can be used to provide antibiotic, antineoplastic, antiseptic, bitter, caminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, hepatic, parasiticide, mild purgative, rubefacient, sialagogue, stimulant, and stomachic properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, and vitamins A, B-complex, and P. Primarily, horseradish is extremely beneficial in dealing with loss of appetite, circulation, coughs, edema, excessive mucus, sinus problems, internal and skin tumors, and worms.

Additionally, this herb is very helpful in treating arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, congestion, gout, jaundice, kidney problems, irritated membranes, neuralgia, palsy, rheumatism, skin conditions, water retention, and wounds. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by horseradish, please feel free to contact a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on Horse radish is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/curve-appetite-boost-energy-and-alertness-with-guarana.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/curve-appetite-boost-energy-and-alertness-with-guarana.html Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:25:18 -0500
Guarana plays a key role in Tupi and Guarani Brazilian culture. A myth of one of the tribe's claims that guarana's domestication began with a diet killing a beloved village child. To console the villagers, a god plucked the left eye from the child and planted it in the forest, which resulted in the wild variety of guarana. Then, the other eye of the child was plucked by the god and planted in the village, giving rise to the domesticated guarana. The guaranais would make tea by shelling and washing the seeds and pounding them into a fine powder. Then, this powder was kneaded into a dough and shaped into cylinders. This product could then be grated and immersed into hot water along with sugar. In the seventeenth century, guarana was introduced into western cavitations and commercialized by 1958.

Guarana was used by some Native American tribes as an energy source when traveling for long periods of time and distances. A South American legend explains the use of guarana by the Incas, hundreds of years before the Europeans colonized. Guarana was an extremely important part of the social life of the Amazon Indians, as they used this herb for energy, as an aphrodisiac, and to treat conditions such as malaria and dysentery. Some Japanese soldiers chewed guarana during World War II to increase stamina and alertness.

This herb is most known for its caffeine content. It is a stimulant on the nervous system. One of the richest sources of caffeine, guarana contains between three and five percent by dry weight. Because of this, it should be used with caution, as caffeine can be harmful and addictive. Guarana causes stimulation to the heart and increased blood flow.

Guarana is often used to lose weight, as the caffeine content is thought to work as an appetite suppressant. This herb may be found in combination with other herbs in weight-loss formulas. It should again be noted that this herb should be used with caution.

The seeds of the guarana plant are used to provide anorectic, astringent, febrifuge, narcotic, nervine, nutritive, and stimulant properties. Primarily, guarana is extremely beneficial in dealing with lack of alertness, lack of energy, lack of stamina, and weight conditions. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by this herb, please feel free to contact a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on guarana is available at VitaNet &Reg;, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/sooth-the-body-and-boost-health-with-discount-flaxseed.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/sooth-the-body-and-boost-health-with-discount-flaxseed.html Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:50:02 -0500
Flaxseed has many medicinal properties, as the oil has been used as a remedy for colds, coughs, sore throats, mucus, congestion, lung conditions, and as an expectorant. The herb is soothing to the mucous membranes and has been used to treat asthmatic conditions.

Additionally, this herb is a mild, natural laxative, providing roughage to aid the body when constipation is a problem. It is also healing on the stomach and intestines. Flaxseed oil can be very beneficial for gastritis, ulcers, and heartburn, while the tea can be used to help detoxify the liver and purify the blood. This herb is also believed to aid in reducing the clotting tendency of blood, potentially lowering the risk of heart attacks and reducing cholesterol levels in blood. It is also used for reducing inflammation and for urinary tract irritations. Crushed flaxseed, made into a poultice, is often used to treat sprains or bruises.

Unrefined, cold-pressed flax oil is considered to be the richest vegetable source of omega-3 and 6 oils, which are essential fatty acids. These oils are useful for balancing the hormones in the body and helping in the weight-loss process. Essential fatty acids help to improve the function of the glands, which in turn helps weight loss. Those individuals on low or no-fat diets often experience symptoms of fatigue and no weight loss which is partly due to the absence of essential fatty acids in the diet. A small amount of essential fatty acids actually helps one to lose weight.

This herb also contains lignans, which are a type of fiber that has anti-estrogenic activity. A study done at the National Cancer Institute followed vegetarian women. The study indicated a correlation between a high amount of lignans in the blood and a lower risk for breast cancer. It has also been discovered that people living in countries where flaxseed is consumed in high amounts have a lower risk for developing both breast and colon cancer. It should be noted that stabilized flaxseed has a higher content of lignans than any other food.

Flaxseed can also be helpful in preventing heart disease and lowering cholesterol. One study found that ground flaxseed, when added to the diet, can reduce the incidence of heart disease.

The seeds of the flaxseed plant are used to provide anti-neoplastic, demulcent, emollient, expectorant, mucilant, mild purgative, and vulnerary properties. Primarily, flaxseed is extremely beneficial in dealing with arthritis, cardiovascular health, high cholesterol, constipation, immune disorders, multiple sclerosis, and skin disorders.

Additionally, this herb is very helpful in treating bronchitis, cancer, colds, gallstones, weak heart, jaundice, liver, lung disorders, muscular rheumatism, and tumors. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by flaxseed, please contact a representative from your local health food store.


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More information on discount vitamins is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-your-health-with-natural-cinnamon-bark.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-your-health-with-natural-cinnamon-bark.html Sat, 17 Oct 2009 09:31:07 -0500
Cinnamon has been known from ancient times, with the first mention of particular spice in the Old Testament being of cinnamon. In this, Moses commanded the use of sweet cinnamon and cassia in the holy anointing oil. Additionally, cinnamon is also mentioned elsewhere in the bible. This herb was so highly prized among ancient nations that it was often looked upon as a gift fit for even God. Cinnamon was imported to Egypt as early as 2000 B.C. The herb is also alluded to by Herodotus and other classical writers. Cinnamon was too expensive to be commonly used in funerals of ancient Rome. However, the Emperor Nero is said to have burned a year's worth of the city's supply at the funeral for his wife in 65 A.D.

Cinnamon can be harvested by growing the tree for two years and then coppicing it. About a dozen shoots will form from the roots in the next year. These shoots are then stripped of their bark and left to dry. Only the thin inner bark is used, while the outer woody portion is removed. Each dried strip of cinnamon are then cut into lengths of about five to ten centimeters for sale.

Cinnamon has been around for thousands of years. It is revered as a spice and also as a healing agent. Cinnamon was included in embalming oils by the Egyptians. This herb was used in China to treat fever, diarrhea, and menstrual problems dating as far back as 2000 BC. Cinnamon was a major trade commodity during the ancient times. Cinnamon grew in the southern regions of Asia originally.

This herb is used to help relieve upset stomachs, reduce milk flow, stop excessive menstrual flow, and alleviate back pain. Research has also determined that cinnamon contains components that possess antifungal and antibacterial capabilities. This herb is found in some toothpaste, which allows it to help some decay-causing bacteria. Cinnamon is also helpful for promoting healthy blood sugar levels.

The dried bark of the cinnamon plant is used to provide alterative, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sedative, stimulant, and stomachic properties. Primarily, cinnamon is beneficial in treating abdominal pain, candida, diarrhea, gas, gastric disorders, and indigestion. Additionally, this herb is also extremely helpful in dealing with arthritis, asthma, backaches, bloating, bronchitis, cholera, coronary problems, fevers, excessive menstruation, nausea, nephritis, parasites, psoriasis, rheumatism, upset stomach, vomiting, and warts. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by cinnamon, please contact a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on Cinnamon Bark is available at VitaNet, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/what-are-stress-tablets-and-why-you-need-them.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/what-are-stress-tablets-and-why-you-need-them.html Sun, 04 Oct 2009 17:38:53 -0500 Are you stressed out and exhausted? You may just need to increase you vitamin intake. Physical and mental stress can rob you of nutrients and energy. When under a heavy stress load your body can use up more vitamins and minerals than normal. Stress tablets are a great daily supplement for a morning boost without the caffeine, or when you need a lift in the afternoon. Stress tablets can help you get through the most challenging of days.

If you have a high stress job or lifestyle you may want to look into getting some stress tablets for yourself. What are they? A multi-vitamin supplement tablet containing higher concentrations of the B vitamins than would be found in a normal vitamin supplement. they are capable of providing you with much higher levels of energy and stamina than you may be used to. They can also help you to sleep better at night which will provide you with more energy during the day.

These tablets are very effective in relieving stress caused by strenuous physical activity as well as heavy mental activity. They promote energy metabolism and nervous system health and give you the extra nutrients you need to cope with stress. Stress tablets also contain other vitamins and minerals like A, C, E, Folic Acid and Zinc that can help you destress naturally.

Taking a high quality stress tablet every morning will help you maintain your mental and emotional balance even when life gets challenging. They can greatly reduce mood swings and alleviate minor depression. They help you to stay calm and centered and maintain a more positive outlook. Folic acid and zinc are great natural antidepressant so make sure the formula you select has these as well as the vitamins already mentioned.

Should you take a stress formula that contains herbs? Yes, if they are known to provide anti-stress benefits. Some formulas contain Siberian Ginseng and passion flower extract. These are great stress reducing herbs and are taken daily be many people around the world.

Besides taking the tablets for stress, make sure you are eating a healthy diet of lean meats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Sometimes people get cranky when they are hungry. But don't load up on a bunch of junk food. These sugars break down too quickly and you'll just feel worse later. A lean roast beef sandwich on whole wheat bread would be a much better snack. Also, it's not a good idea to take high amounts of B vitamins on an empty stomach as this may make you feel nauseous. Always take them with some food.

Start out with a small healthy breakfast and take your stress tablets every morning and you'll feel great and be able to handle way more stress than you ever thought possible.



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Brad Bahr is the author of many health related articles and websites. Find out which all natural anti-aging supplement he recommends for improving health, looking younger and feeling great every day. You can visit his website at: http://www.feel-best.info.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/vitamins-for-the-elderly-which-ones-do-you-really-need.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/vitamins-for-the-elderly-which-ones-do-you-really-need.html Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:00:13 -0500

We older people need more vitamins and minerals in our diet than a younger person does. Why? Because as our bodies age they get less efficient when it comes to utilizing nutritional substances. Not getting the proper amount of vitamins and minerals can lead to illness and the need for prescription medicines which further decrease our nutritional uptake capabilities. It can be a vicious circle.


Elderly people need plenty of vitamin D. This vitamin is very important for strong bones. Many older people don't get enough of this important nutrient and suffer needlessly from broken bones due to simple falls. Easily broken bones and osteoporosis can be avoided by taking the proper amounts of vitamin D. Be sure to eat a lot of dairy products to keep your bones healthy. If you can't eat dairy products you can easily obtain a vitamin D supplement from your local drugstore or from an online store.

Watch out for dangerous free radicals. They destroy healthy cells in your body and cause oxidation. This can lead to all kinds of problems such as cancer, heart disease, arthritis, Parkinson's disease, cataracts and other serious conditions. Wrinkles and saggy skin are tell-tale signs of cell damage by free radicals. You can help prevent free radical damage by taking plenty of antioxidants such as vitamin A, C and E. These contain a high amount of beta carotene which protects your body from oxidation. Make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to insure you're getting enough antioxidants. It's also a good idea to use an antioxidant supplement such as pine bark extract, red wine extract or raspberry extract. These all contain lot's of healthy free radical fighting antioxidants.


Vitamin K is another often neglected vitamin. It's especially important for seniors as it helps to keep the blood circulation in good working order. It also helps the blood to clot properly. Vitamin K is known to help prevent Alzheimer's disease too. Some great sources of Vitamin K are spinach, cabbage, green tea and dark green lettuce. Eating them fresh is best as freezing can destroy vitamin K.

Along with the vitamins already mentioned there are other important trace minerals your body needs on a regular basis. A great source of these trace minerals is green algae which is available in supplement form. Also any kind of sea vegetable such as kelp is good too.

Try to get a well balanced variety of vitamins by eating right and taking a multi-vitamin for seniors and some antioxidants every day. You'll live longer and look and feel a whole lot better.



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Brad Bahr is the author of many health related articles and websites. Find out which all natural anti-aging supplement he recommends for improving health, looking younger and feeling great every day. You can visit his website at: http://www.feel-best.info.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-lung-and-nasal-health-with-pleurisy-root.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-lung-and-nasal-health-with-pleurisy-root.html Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:51:16 -0500
This plant is native to North America. It was long used by Indians and pioneers. Often, it was spread onto sores after being powdered and mixed into a paste. Indians of several regions brewed a tea from the leaves to induce vomiting in certain rituals, while settlers and Indians alike made a tea from the root to induce perspiration and expectoration in severe respiratory conditions. Pleurisy was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia in the 19th century.

Pleurisy root developed its name because of its use for treating lung conditions. The name comes from the Greek root word pleura, which means "lung membranes." This name implies that this herb is extremely valuable for treating pleurisy. This is because it relieves chest pain and eases breathing difficulties. Pleurisy was used by Native Americans. Then, they introduced it to the European settlers who were suffering from numerous respiratory problems.

This herb works primarily as an expectorant. Pleurisy helps to expel phlegm from bronchial and nasal passages. The herb is responsible for opening lung capillaries. This aids in the release of mucus, which thins discharge. This process helps to reduce lung congestion and improve breathing.

In addition to its uses for pulmonary problems, pleurisy root is also used as a gentle tonic. This tonic helps with stomach pain that is caused by gas, indigestion, and dysentery.

Additionally, pleurisy root is a powerful diaphoretic. It increases body temperature and opens pores to induce perspiration. It has also been used against poisoning and acute rheumatism. Unfortunately, this is not recommended for children.

The root of the pleurisy plant is used to provide alterative, anodyne, antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, febrifuge, nervine, mild purgative, and stimulant properties. Primarily, pleurisy is extremely beneficial in treating spasmodic asthma, bronchitis, acute dysentery, emphysema, fevers, indigestion, lung disorders, pleurisy, and pneumonia. Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with croup, contagious diseases, flu, gas, kidney problems, measles, and excessive mucus, absent perspiration, poisoning, acute rheumatism, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, and typhus.

In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen while on prescription medications. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by pleurisy, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on pleurisy root is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/improve-colon-function-with-psyllium-husk-fiber.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/improve-colon-function-with-psyllium-husk-fiber.html Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:08:11 -0500
When psyllium is taken internally it is an excellent remedy for a variety of problems in the digestive system. The herb can be used to help prevent autointoxication, if used over a period of time, from the re-absorption of toxins into the bloodstream by removing the toxins. Since psyllium prevents toxic re-absorption, it allows for added protection to the colon. This helps the body to fight disease and illness. The herbal fiber also works as a lubricant on the intestinal tract. Additionally, it helps with diarrhea.

Research has determined that psyllium is a useful treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is considered to deal with an overly sensitive colon that responds to stress. This herb may help the colon by soothing, healing, and aiding in the elimination of toxins from the colon. Psyllium has also been recommended for diabetics. The herb produces copicous mucilage which soothes and heals the large intestines and cleans the colon. Psyllium does not irritate the delicate mucus membrane. Instead, it works to strengthen and restore the tissues. Jethro Kloss suggested the use of psyllium in cases of colitis and anal ulcers.

This herb is considered to be a safe alternative to drug therapy for chronic constipation when it is used properly. The husks from psyllium seeds are a great source of insoluble and soluble fiber. They also serve as an intestinal cleanser and stool softener. Additionally, psyllium is a hydrophilic bulking agent, which means that it is able to increase several times in size when it is combined with water. This occurs because of mucilage, one o the main components of psyllium. Mucilage is a thickening and stabilizing agent that swells in water. When psyllium swells in the intestines, it helps to increase the peristaltic activity of the bowel. This bulks up stool and promotes bowel movement. Because of this, it is crucial to drink plenty of water when one is taking psyllium. Mucilage is also able to help soothe and heal inflamed tissue in the intestinal tract.

Studies have determined that psyllium is beneficial for lowering cholesterol and strengthening the heart. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggested that dietary modifications such as psyllium should be used to lower cholesterol levels before turning to drug therapy. By adding mucilage, like that found in psyllium, to the diet, one can successfully reduce serum cholesterol levels. Recent studies on psyllium and other forms of fiber have determined that mucilage in fiber is responsible for inhibiting cholesterol production. Not only does psyllium reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels, it also increases levels of good cholesterol.

The externally use of psyllium is helpful in dealing with skin inflammation and irritation. A poultice of crushed psyllium seeds is very beneficial. Additionally, psyllium is a great drawing agent. It is recommended for drawing the pus out of both boils and sores.

In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen while on prescription drugs. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by psyllium, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on psyllium husk fiber is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-your-health-with-prickly-ash.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/supplements/boost-your-health-with-prickly-ash.html Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:53:19 -0500
The Native American tribes used prickly ash for toothaches and infection. Subsequently, it appeared in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1829 to 1926. It was also found in the National Formulary from 1916 to 1947 as a treatment for rheumatism. This herb was often used in the South during cholera and typhus epidemics. There, it was able to produce positive results. Prickly ash is often used in combination with a variety of other herbs.

Samuel Thomson, a nineteenth-century herbalist, considered prickly ash to be a valuable natural stimulant. It helps with problems such as rheumatism, cold hands and feet, ague, and fever. This herb is responsible for stimulating circulation, which is essential for a healthy body. Prickly ash can also help circulation that is impaired. This is the case in cold extremities and joints. Additionally, this herb can help with arthritis and lethargy because of its stimulant action and because it shows promise as way to enhance the immune system and relieve exhaustion.

Prickly ash can be used as a poultice to help speed up the healing of wounds and preventing infection. Also, it helps increase the production of saliva. This helps to eliminate mouth dryness. The bitter and sweet qualities of this herb are responsible for helping to heal deficiencies in the heart, lungs, spleen, and intestine. These qualities also help to strengthen them. As an example, prickly ash has been used to treat ulcers, asthma, and colic. Prickly ash is also used to aid digestion. Additionally, it helps in relieving feminine problems such as premenstrual cramps. This herb also is used to treat skin diseases.

The bark and berries of the prickly ash plant are used to provide alterative, anthelmintic, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, astringent, blood purifier, sialagogue, and stimulant properties. Primarily, prickly ash is extremely beneficial in dealing with poor circulation, fevers, paralysis, mouth sores, ulcers, and wounds. Additionally, this herb is very helpful in treating ague, arthritis, asthma, blood impurities, cholera, colic, uterine cramps, diarrhea, edema, gas, gastric disorders, indigestion, lethargy, liver disorders, rheumatism, primary tuberculosis, skin diseases, syphilis, thyroid problems, and typhus.

In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen while on prescription medications. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by prickly ash, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.


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More information on prickly ash is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>