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Potential ‘Safe Period’ For Hormone Replacement Use Identified
ScienceDaily (Feb. 8, 2009) — A new study makes important new findings on the role of hormone use on the risk of breast cancer, confirming that the use of estrogen plus progesterone increases the risk of both ductal and lobular breast cancer far more than estrogen-only; suggesting a two-year “safe” period for the use of estrogen and progesterone; and finding that the increased risk for ductal cancers observed in long-term past users of hormone replacement therapy drops off substantially two years after hormone use is stopped.–Previous studies have shown that hormone replacement therapy after menopause increases the risk of breast cancer and that use of a regimen that includes both estrogen and progesterone is more detrimental for the breast than the use of estrogen alone. But more data from large prospective studies are needed to fully characterize the impact of exogenous hormones (Exogenousor exogeneous) refers to an action or object coming from outside a system. It is the opposite of endogenous, something generated from within the system ) on breast cancer incidence by type of hormone preparation and histology of the cancer.—To investigate the association in more detail, American Cancer Society epidemiologists led by Eugenia E. Calle, PhD, did a prospective study of 68,369 postmenopausal women who were cancer-free at baseline in 1992. They examined the use of estrogen-only and estrogen and progesterone in current and former users of varying duration, and the subsequent risk of developing invasive ductal and lobular carcinoma of the breast. They also looked at whether the risk for each type of breast cancer and each type of hormone regimen varied by body mass index (BMI), stage of disease at diagnosis, and estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status. For the present study, the follow-up period ended on June 30, 2005.—They confirmed the findings from previous work that estrogen and progesterone increases the risk of both ductal and lobular breast cancer far more estrogen alone. They also found the risk associated with use of estrogen and progesterone increases significantly and substantially within three years of beginning hormone use. The data showed no increased risk for women who used estrogen and progesterone for less than two years, potentially identifying a “safe” period for estrogen and progesterone use.—The study also found no increased risk of breast cancer in women who had stopped using estrogen and progesterone two or more years ago, suggesting a window of two to three years for the risks of estrogen and progesterone both to become apparent after initial use and to diminish after cessation. Few estimates of risk within two to three years of initiation and cessation are available, so these findings need replication in other large studies. The study found the use of estrogen and progesterone was associated with a doubling of risk of lobular cancer after three years of use, and a doubling of risk of ductal cancer with 10 years of use. Estrogen-only use was not associated with increased risk of ductal cancer, even after 20 years of use, but was associated with a 50 percent increase in risk of lobular cancer after 10 years of use.—Story Source: The above story is reprinted (with editorial adaptations by ScienceDaily staff) from materials provided by American Cancer Society, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS. — Journal Reference: –Eugenia E. Calle et al. —Postmenopausal hormone use and breast cancer associations differ by hormone regimen and histologic subtype. Cancer, Published Online: January 20, 2008 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.24101
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Long-Term Estrogen Therapy Linked To Breast Cancer Risk
ScienceDaily (May 9, 2006) — Long-term estrogen therapy may be related to a higher risk of breast cancer among postmenopausal women who have had a hysterectomy, according to an article in the May 8 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. —Previous studies have linked the use of hormone therapy to breast cancer among postmenopausal women, but have primarily focused on the hormone combination of estrogen plus progestin, according to background information in the article. Recently released results from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), a large clinical trial of hormone therapy, found no significant link between estrogen therapy and breast cancer in women who took the hormone for seven years. —Wendy Y. Chen, M.D., M.P.H., Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, and colleagues evaluated women who were part of the Nurses’ Health Study, a group of female nurses that have been followed since 1976. In 1980, 11,508 women from the study were postmenopausal and had had a hysterectomy. Every two years the researchers enrolled all the additional women who become postmenopausal and had a hysterectomy, so 28,835 women were included by the end of the study in 2002. Women were asked by questionnaire every two years if they used hormones and whether they had developed breast cancer. For women who developed breast cancer, the researchers obtained permission to review the women’s medical records, which they used to record the hormone receptor information. Tumors were classified as positive or negative for estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor based on how they responded to specific hormonal therapies. —Throughout the study period, 934 invasive breast cancers developed, 226 among women who had never used hormones and 708 among women who were using estrogen at the time. The longer a woman used estrogen, the higher her risk of breast cancer. Those who had been taking estrogen for fewer than 10 years did not appear to have a higher risk than those who had never taken hormones, but those who had been taking estrogen for more than 20 years had a significantly increased risk. The association was strongest for cancers that were estrogen receptor positive and progesterone receptor positive. The results were similar when the researchers evaluated only women who were older than age 60; only women who had begun estrogen therapy after reaching age 50; and only women who were at least age 50 and had undergone a hysterectomy, even if they had not gone through menopause. —“In conclusion, we found that estrogen therapy was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer with longer-term use,” the authors write. “Although current use of estrogen therapy for less than 10 years was not associated with a statistically significant increase in breast cancer risk, the WHI has shown an increased risk of stroke and deep-vein thrombosis in the same time period. Women who take estrogen therapy for prevention or treatment of osteoporosis typically require longer-term treatment and should thus explore other options, given the increased risk of breast cancer with longer-term use.”—(Arch Intern Med. 2006; 166: 1027-1032. Available pre-embargo to media at http://www.jamamedia.org.) –Editor’s Note: This study was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. —Story Source: The above story is reprinted (with editorial adaptations by ScienceDaily staff) from materials provided by JAMA and Archives Journals, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS —
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Estrogen Therapy May Be Associated With Kidney Stones in Postmenopausal Women
ScienceDaily (Oct. 12, 2010) — Use of estrogen therapy is associated with an increased risk of developing kidney stones in postmenopausal women, according to a report in the October 11 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.– “Nephrolithiasis [kidney stones] is a common condition that affects 5 percent to 7 percent of postmenopausal women in the United States,” according to background information in the article. “Because the process of kidney stone formation is influenced by a variety of lifestyle and other health-related factors, the true impact of estrogen therapy on the risk of kidney stone formation is difficult to infer from observational studies.” — Using data from the national Women’s Health Initiative study, Naim M. Maalouf, M.D., of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, examined data from two trials: 10,739 postmenopausal women with hysterectomy who received either an estrogen-only treatment or matching placebo and 16,608 postmenopausal women without hysterectomy who received either an estrogen plus progestin treatment or matching placebo. Data were collected for an average of 7.1 years in the estrogen-only trial and 5.6 years for the estrogen plus progestin trial. — A total of 335 cases of kidney stones were reported in the active treatment groups, while 284 cases occurred in the placebo groups. The beginning demographic characteristics and risk factors for kidney stones were similar in the two groups, and the authors found that estrogen therapy was associated with a significant increase in risk of kidney stones. The corresponding annualized incidence rate per 10,000 women per year was 39 in the treatment group and 34 in the placebo group. Development of kidney stones was five times more common in women with a history of kidney stones at the beginning of the study, but was not significantly altered by estrogen therapy. In this trial, estrogen therapy increased the risk of development of kidney stones irrespective of age, ethnicity, body mass index, prior hormone therapy use or use of coffee or thiazide diuretics.The authors conclude that their results “indicate that estrogen therapy increases the risk of nephrolithiasis in healthy postmenopausal women. The mechanisms underlying this higher propensity remain to be determined. In view of the sizable prevalence of nephrolithiasis in this segment of the population, these findings need to be considered in the decision-making process regarding postmenopausal estrogen use.”—Story Source:–The above story is reprinted (with editorial adaptations by ScienceDaily staff) from materials provided by JAMA and Archives Journals.–Journal Reference: N. M. Maalouf, A. H. Sato, B. J. Welch, B. V. Howard, B. B. Cochrane, K. Sakhaee, J. A. Robbins. Postmenopausal Hormone Use and the Risk of Nephrolithiasis: Results From the Women’s Health Initiative Hormone Therapy Trials. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2010; 170 (18): 1678 DOI: 10.1001/archinternmed.2010.342
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Show of the Week March 16 2012
T-UP-Sex Up Tea Recipe
Activation of the nuclear receptor PPARγ by metabolites isolated from sage (Salvia officinalis L.).—for Diabetes
Flavonol kaempferol improves chronic hyperglycemia-impaired pancreatic beta-cell viability and insulin secretory function.—-Health Benefits of Kaempferol
Remedies for Respiratory-Heart-Sugar Issues
Remedy for Heart Stability
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T-UP-Sex Up Tea Recipe
Ingredients—Psorlea-Dodder-Juniper berry-Nettle-Muira Purma-Celery Seed
Tribulus-Shilajit- Deer Antler– put all in at equal parts—Designed to increase T levels—Stimulate the ebb and flow—regulate the insulin-regulate the kidneys-increase blood vessel flexibility—Use By either one of 2 steps—Step 1 blend all contents to a powder and then apply 1 tablespoon to a 2 cup pot of water ( preferably distilled or reverse osmosis ) and bring to a boil —when done pour into a cup and drink at least 3 servings a day and about 30 minutes before intercource—can be added with the T Up—Step 2 shake bag contents til there is a total mix—a and add to a 2 cup pot 1-2 tablespoons and bring to boil when that is done then allow the stove to be off and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes then drink
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Activation of the nuclear receptor PPARγ by metabolites isolated from sage (Salvia officinalis L.).—for Diabetes
Christensen KB, Jørgensen M, Kotowska D, Petersen RK, Kristiansen K, Christensen LP.
Source –Institute of Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology and Environmental Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Niels Bohrs Allé 1, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark. [email protected]
Abstract-ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Salvia officinalis has been used as a traditional remedy against diabetes in many countries and its glucose-lowering effects have been demonstrated in animal studies. The active compounds and their possible mode of action are still unknown although it has been suggested that diterpenes may be responsible for the anti-diabetic effect of Salvia officinalis.
AIM OF THE STUDY–To investigate whether the reported anti-diabetic effects of Salvia officinalis are related to activation of the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ and to identify the bioactive constituents.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
From a dichloromethane extract of Salvia officinalis able to activate PPARγ several major metabolites were isolated by chromatographic techniques. To assess bioactivity of the isolated metabolites a PPARγ transactivation assay was used.
RESULTS:
Eight diterpenes were isolated and identified including a new abietane diterpene being the epirosmanol ester of 12-O-methyl carnosic acid and 20-hydroxyferruginol, which was isolated from Salvia officinalis for the first time, as well as viridiflorol, oleanolic acid, and α-linolenic acid. 12-O-methyl carnosic acid and α-linolenic acid were able to significantly activate PPARγ whereas the remaining metabolites were either unable to activate PPARγ or yielded insignificant activation.
CONCLUSIONS:
Selected metabolites from Salvia officinalis were able to activate PPARγ and hence, the anti-diabetic activity of this plant could in part be mediated through this nuclear receptor
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Flavonol kaempferol improves chronic hyperglycemia-impaired pancreatic beta-cell viability and insulin secretory function.
Zhang Y, Liu D.
Source–Faculty of Life Science, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, 710072, China.
Considerable evidence shows that chronic hyperglycemia can cause pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, which contributes to progressive deterioration of glucose homeostasis and overt diabetes. In the present study, we found that kaempferol, a flavonol compound present in various Chinese medicinal herbs, has cytoprotective effects on cultured clonal beta-cells and pancreatic human islets. Kaempferol treatment dose-dependently promoted viability, inhibited cellular apoptosis, and reduced caspase-3 activity in beta-cells and human islets exposed to chronic high glucose, with 10 μM kaempferol exerting the maximum effect. In addition, kaempferol treatment improved the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins Akt and Bcl-2 that was significantly reduced in beta-cells and human islets chronically exposed to hyperglycemia. Furthermore, exposure of beta-cells and human islets to kaempferol restored high glucose-attenuated intracellular cAMP and ATP production. Inhibition of protein kinase A or Akt activation ablated the anti-apoptotic effect of kaempferol. These cytoprotective effects of kaempferol were associated with improved insulin secretory function and synthesis in beta-cells and human islets. These findings provide evidence that kaempferol may be a naturally occurring anti-diabetic compound by protecting pancreatic beta-cell survival and function in a hostile environment that would otherwise lead to type 2 diabetes.—– Tea (black) (dry leaf)-126.96— Tea (green) (dry leaf)
Health Benefits of Kaempferol—Keampferol is a strong antioxidant and helps to prevent oxidative damage of our cells, lipids and DNA. Kaempferol seems to prevent arteriosclerosis by inhibiting the oxidation of low density lipoprotein and the formation of platelets in the blood. Studies have also confirmed that kaempferol acts as a chemopreventive agent, which means that it inhibits the formation of cancer cells.
An in vitro study by Jan Kowalski et al (Pharmacological Reports, 2005) showed that kaempferol inhibits monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1). MCP-1 plays a role in the initial steps of atherosclerotic plaque formation.
The flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin seems to act synergistically in reducing cell proliferation of cancer cells, meaning that the combined treatments with quercetin and kaempferol are more effective than the additive effects of each flavonoid. This was a conclusion from a study by ML Ackland et al (In Vivo, Feb 2005) titled “Synergistic antiproliferative action of the flavonols quercitin and kaempferol in cultured human cancer cell lines””.
A study “Inhibition of P-glycoprotein function and expression by kaempferol and quercetin” by the Chiang Mai University, Thailand, found that kaempferol can help to fight cancer because it reduces the resistance of cancer cells to anti-cancer drugs such as vinbalstine and paclitaxel.
Synonyms–Campherol, indigo yellow, nimbecetin, 3,4′,5,7-Tetrahydroxyflavone
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Remedies for Respiratory-Heart-Sugar Issues
Garlic-Sage- Bioflavonoid-Honey—Take 3-4 bulbs of garlic and 1 tablespoon of powdered Sage-8-9 pieces of the Bioflavonoids from citrus-add to 1-1/12 cup of unpasteurized honey—blend all the ingredients til there is a total fusion or the honey liquifies all the components—use 1 tsp as needed—this will clearly remove toxic waste and particulates that may occur in the system from respiratory to liver—this will dramatically reduce Sugar and sustain heart balance and flow—will increase permeability of the blood vessels—this will regulate the insulin as well from the sage and garlic will have strong antibacterial-antifungal properties-and potent antioxidant properties—
Would be used for Respiratory-issues –Congestions and Cloggy lungs—Heart and Circulation-Permeability and Flow-Anti Plaque and Fat build up in arteries and liver-Immune Support to resist Bacteria and Fungal infections-Chelating elements and Pollutants out of the system
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Remedy for Heart Stability
Hawthorn Berry – Rose-Honey- Take ½ cup of Roses and Hawthorn berry and ½ cup of Unpasteurized Honey—add the Honey and get it going whipping it for about 5 minutes then add the other 2 ingredients slowly and pause in the loading-allowing the blender to fuse the honey and the components—then add more –repeat this til you completely empty your content—allow this to blend for about 15-20 minutes optimum speed or high speed—this will heat and completely saturate—when done stop blender—add to glass container—
Use 1 tablespoon several times a day as a means to balance out heart irregularities
Consuming rose and Hawthorn berry this will stabilize heart and allow for a steady heart rate—in conjunction to this you may want to utilize Taurine 500 mgs 2-3 times a day Magnesium Citrate 100-200 mgs 2-3 times a day
And utilizing a good Vitamin E supplement 200-400 IU’s 2 times a day
Consume adequate Salt and potassium as well to stabilize heart functions—
At the same time ALL PROCESS SUGARS ARE TO CEASE—NO EXCEPTIONS—NO SYNTHETIC SWEETNERS—NO EXCEPTIONS-NO SOY BASED FOODS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE SINCE THIS LEACES OUT MAGNESIUM AS WELL AS VITAMIN E-NO EXCEPTIONS-ALL GRAINS AND CEREALS ARE TO CEASE-NO EXCEPTIONS
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Show of the Week March 19 2012
Identification of antiplatelet and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory constituents in betel nut
Acetylcholinesterase inhibition in cognition-relevant brain areas of mice treated with a nootropic Amazonian herbal (Marapuama).
Antioxidants from black tea may aid diabetics— Recipe For Sugar Regulating
Garlic (Allium sativum) supplementation with standard antidiabetic agent provides better diabetic control in type 2 diabetes patients
Exercise and Caffeine Change Your DNA in the Same Way
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Identification of antiplatelet and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory constituents in betel nut.
Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2011 Jun;9(6):619-25—Authors: Ghayur MN, Kazim SF, Rasheed H, Khalid A, Jumani MI, Choudhary MI, Gilani AH
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the possible mechanism and the compound(s) responsible for the antiplatelet and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory effects of Areca catechu crude extract (Ac.Cr).
METHODS: Aqueous-methanol (70%) was used for extraction of plant material (betel nut). Antiplatelet activity was measured in human platelet-rich plasma by using a Lumi-aggregometer while anti-AChE activity was measured spectrophotometrically in vitro. In an attempt to find the responsible compound(s) in betel nut for antiplatelet and anti-AChE activities, different commercially available betel nut compounds were tested.
RESULTS: Ac.Cr inhibited platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid (AA), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), platelet-activating factor (PAF), epinephrine and Ca(2+)-ionophore. Ac.Cr was the most potent in inhibiting ADP- and Ca(2+)-ionophore-induced aggregation. In the AChE assay, Ac.Cr showed significant AChE inhibitory activity with almost complete inhibition of the enzyme. Out of the tested compounds, none of the compounds in betel nut showed any antiplatelet effect except for catechin that was the most potent against epinephrine-induced aggregation. Catechin was significantly less potent than Ac.Cr, indicating a presence of additional compound(s) with antiplatelet activity. For the AChE inhibitory effect, only tannic acid, gallic acid, diosgenin and isoguvacine were found to be active, whereby tannic acid was more potent than Ac.Cr.
CONCLUSION: This study shows the possible antiplatelet and AChE inhibitory potential of betel nut while further studies are needed to confirm and identify more compounds in betel nut for these actions.–PMID: 21669165 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
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Acetylcholinesterase inhibition in cognition-relevant brain areas of mice treated with a nootropic Amazonian herbal (Marapuama).
Phytomedicine. 2010 Sep 10;
Authors: Figueiró M, Ilha J, Pochmann D, Porciúncula LO, Xavier LL, Achaval M, Nunes DS, Elisabetsky E
The goal of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) used to treat Alzheimer’s patients is an improvement in cholinergic transmission. While currently available AChEIs have limited success, a huge impediment to the development of newer ones is access to the relevant brain areas. Promnesic, anti-amnesic and AChEI properties were identified in a standardized ethanol extract from Ptychopetalum olacoides (POEE), a medicinal plant favored by the elderly in Amazon communities. The purpose of this study was to provide conclusive evidence that orally given POEE induces AChE inhibition in brain areas relevant to cognition. Histochemistry experiments confirmed that the anticholinesterase compound(s) present in POEE are orally bioavailable, inducing meaningful AChE inhibition in the hippocampus CA1 (â¼33%) and CA3 (â¼20%), and striatum (â¼17%). Ellman’s colorimetric analysis revealed that G1 and G4 AChE isoforms activities were markedly inhibited (66 and 72%, respectively) in hippocampus and frontal cortex (50 and 63%, respectively), while G4 appeared to be selectively inhibited (72%) in the striatum. Western blotting showed that POEE did not induce significant changes in the AChE immunocontent suggesting that its synthesis is not extensively modified. This study provides definitive proof of meaningful anticholinesterase activity compatible with the observed promnesic and anti-amnesic effects of POEE in mice, reaffirming the potential of this extract for treating neurodegenerative conditions where a hypofunctioning cholinergic neurotransmission is prominent. Adequate assessment of the safety and efficacy of this extract and/or its isolated active compound(s) are warranted.—PMID: 20833520 [PubMed – as supplied by publisher]
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Garlic (Allium sativum) supplementation with standard antidiabetic agent provides better diabetic control in type 2 diabetes patients.
Pak J Pharm Sci. 2011 Oct;24(4):565-70–Authors: Ashraf R, Khan RA, Ashraf I
Abstract
Garlic has been used safely since ancient times as both food and medicine in human populations, but studies of its efficacy in the management of diabetes have yielded conflicting results. This study has evaluated the potential hypoglycemic effects of garlic in type 2 diabetic patients. The study was conducted in diagnosed type 2 diabetic patients (n=60) with fasting blood sugar level above 126 mg/dl to evaluate the effects of adding garlic tablets with standard antidiabetic therapy on blood sugar. Patients were divided randomly into 2 groups. Group 1 (n=30) was given tablet Garlic (KWAI) 300 mg thrice daily + Metformin 500 mg twice daily and Group 2 (n=30) was given Placebo+Metformin 500 mg twice daily respectively for 24 weeks. Serum lipids and fasting blood glucose were measured at week 0, 12 and week 24. Group1 showed significant reduction in fasting blood sugar at week 24 with a percentage decrease of (-3.12 percent) (P = <0.005) as compared to group 2 (0.59 percent). At the end of week 24, GR1 group also showed considerable decrease in mean total cholesterol (6.2 mg/dl, -2.82%, P=<0.005), LDL-C (-3 mg/dl, 2.18% P=<0.005), triglycerides (-5.2 mg/dl, 3.12%, P<0.005) while HDL cholesterol was significantly increased (2.36 mg/dl, 6.72%, P<0.005) as compared to GR2 group. Combination of garlic with typical antidiabetic remedy has shown to improve glycemic control in addition to antihyperlipidemic activity. Garlic may be a good addition in the management of patients with diabetes and hyperlipidemia.—PMID: 21959822 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Recipe—take a garlic extract or supplement and add with it juniper berry and bitter melon—this should in fact increase the efficiency of the organs in regulating insulin—repairing the pancreas—assisting the liver—–this should reduce not only the cholesterol but as well the sugar in the system
You can mix equal parts of an extract or tincture of the juniper 1/3 or 33 % -bitter melon 1/3 or 33%-and garlic 1/3 or 33% in a 1 oz or 2 oz glass container and utilize ¼ tsp 3 times a day either after a meal or before bed
You can as well take the garlic supplement and utilize the tincture of bitter melon and juniper either mixed or separate then use ¼ tsp of each and 1 capsule of garlic
You can take a capsule of each 1— 3 times a day—even though they used the KWAI product the Kyolic will do well formulas like 108-or 110 will be adequate or even just the plain 100
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Exercise and Caffeine Change Your DNA in the Same Way
You might think that the DNA you inherited is one thing that you absolutely can’t do anything about, but in one sense you’d be wrong. Researchers have found that when healthy but inactive men and women exercise for a matter of minutes, it produces a rather immediate change to their DNA. Perhaps even more tantalizing, the study suggests that the caffeine in your morning coffee might also influence muscle in essentially the same way. —The underlying genetic code in human muscle isn’t changed with exercise, but the DNA molecules within those muscles are chemically and structurally altered in very important ways. Those modifications to the DNA at precise locations appear to be early events in the genetic reprogramming of muscle for strength and, ultimately, in the structural and metabolic benefits of exercise.–“Our muscles are really plastic,” says Juleen Zierath of Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. “We often say “You are what you eat.” Well, muscle adapts to what you do. If you don’t use it, you lose it, and this is one of the mechanisms that allows that to happen.”—The DNA changes in question are known as epigenetic modifications and involve the gain or loss of chemical marks on DNA over and above the familiar sequence of As, Gs, Ts, and Cs. The new study shows that the DNA within skeletal muscle taken from people after a burst of exercise bears fewer chemical marks (specifically methyl groups) than it did before exercise. Those changes take place in stretches of DNA that are involved in turning “on” genes important for muscles’ adaptation to exercise.—When the researchers made muscles contract in lab dishes, they saw a similar loss of DNA methyl groups. Exposure of isolated muscle to caffeine had the same effect.–Zierath explained that caffeine does mimic the muscle contraction that comes with exercise in other ways, too. She doesn’t necessarily recommend anyone drink a cup of joe in place of exercise. It’s nevertheless tempting to think that athletes who enjoy a coffee with their workout might just be on to something.—Broadly speaking, the findings offer more evidence that our genomes are much more dynamic than they are often given credit for. Epigenetic modifications that turn genes on and back off again can be incredibly flexible events. They allow the DNA in our cells to adjust as the environment shifts.—“Exercise is medicine,” Zierath says, and it seems the means to alter our genomes for better health may be only a jog away. And for those who can’t exercise, the new findings might point the way to medicines (caffeinated ones, perhaps?) with -Story Source–The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Cell Press, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS. –Journal Reference-Romain Barrès, Jie Yan, Brendan Egan, Jonas Thue Treebak, Morten Rasmussen, Tomas Fritz, Kenneth Caidahl, Anna Krook, Donal J. O’Gorman, Juleen R. Zierath. Acute Exercise Remodels Promoter Methylation in Human Skeletal Muscle. Cell Metabolism, 2012; 15 (3): 405 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2012.01.001
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Antioxidants from black tea may aid diabetics
Polysaccharides from black tea may blunt the spike in sugar levels after a meal more than similar compounds from green and oolong tea, and offer potential to manage diabetes, says a new study.
The black tea polysaccharides also exhibited the greatest activity for scavenging free radicals, which are linked to development of diseases such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, according to new findings published in the Journal of Food Science. Interest in tea and its constituents has bloomed in recent years, with the greatest focus on the leaf’s polyphenol content. Green tea contains between 30 and 40 per cent of water-extractable polyphenols, while black tea (green tea that has been oxidized by fermentation) contains between 3 and 10 per cent. Oolong tea is semi-fermented tea and is somewhere between green and black tea. The new research looked at the polysaccharide content of green, black and oolong tea, and measured their ability to inhibit the effects of alpha-glucosidase activity. By inhibiting this carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzyme, it is possible to reduce the spike in glucose levels in the blood following a meal (postprandial hyperglycemia). If additional studies support the potential effects of the polysaccharides, it could see the black tea extracts positioned in the diabetic supplements market.
Study details
“Many efforts have been made to search for effective glucose inhibitors from natural materials,” said lead researcher Haixia Chen. “There is a potential for exploitation of black tea polysaccharide in managing diabetes.” Researchers from Tianjin University isolated three polysaccharide-rich fractions from green, black, and oolong tea. The black tea was found to contain lower molecular weight polysaccharides. Green tea had a range from 9.2 to 251.5 KDa, while black tea polysaccharides ranged from 3.8 to 32.7 KDa. When tested for their ability to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, as well as antioxidant activities relating to hydroxyl radicals and DPPH radicals, the black tea polysaccharides were found to produce the best results, said Chen and co-workers. “The differences in antioxidant activities and glycosidase inhibitory properties among the three polysaccharide-rich fractions appeared to be related to differences in monosaccharide composition and molecular weight distribution of the polysaccharide,” wrote the researchers. —-“Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Capacity of 3 Polysaccharides from Green Tea, Oolong Tea, and Black Tea”–Authors: H. Chen, Z. Qu, L. Fu, P. Dong, X. Zhang
Recipe For Sugar Regulating—take Black Tea and Sage and make a brew out of them—and drink through out the day to minimize the ravages of sugar—this can assist in the reduction of the medications and increase the restoration of the Pancreas
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Use Black Coffee and Sage as well—utilize equal parts of both the sage and the Tea or Coffee
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Show of the Week March 23 2012
Onion or Garlic
Urtica Dioica (Nettle)
Induction of insulin secretion by a component of Urtica dioica leave extract in perifused Islets of Langerhans and its in vivo effects in normal
Inhibition of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus replication in a lethal SARS-CoV BALB
Health benefits of Savory
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Onion or Garlic
4.13. Allium Sativum L. and Allium Cepa (Garlic and Onion)
Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said “although onion and garlic have a bad smell, they are cures for 70 different illnesses that cannot be cured by any other means”. Onion (A. cepa) and garlic (A. sativa) are closely related vegetables that belong to the Allium class of bulb-shaped plants, which also includes chives, leeks, and scallions. Garlic is used for flavoring in cooking and is unique due to its high sulfur content, along with arginine, oligosaccharides, flavonoids, and selenium, all of which might promote health [116]. The association between the consumption of Allium vegetables and the risk for cancer was assessed in several epidemiologic studies, showing the protective effect of garlic and onion on cancer. In China, high consumption of Allium vegetables was associated with lower incidence of gastric cancer [117, 118]. Additional studies in the Netherlands suggested an inverse correlation between the risk of colorectal, breast, and lung cancers and the consumption of onion and garlic [119]. Steinmetz et al. [120] studied the association between garlic consumption and the risk of colon cancer and found that women who consumed high amounts of garlic had a 50 percent lower incidence of distal colon cancer compared with women who consumed less garlic [120]. The risk of breast cancer was also found to be reduced in women consuming greater amounts of fiber garlic and onions [31], as well as that of esophageal and stomach cancers [121]. Similar findings were noted with reference to the risk of prostate cancer [122, 123], pancreatic cancer [33], and other known cancer types [124]. The amount of garlic consumed in the above studies varied from 2 to 20g daily (The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for general health promotion for adults recommend a daily dose of 2 to 5g of fresh garlic). It was noted that although garlic had been used safely in cooking, excessive consumption can cause some side effects, in addition to those of strong breath and body odors [125]. The protective effect of Allium vegetables against tumor progression and against angiogenesis were attributed to its organosulfur compounds especially allicin (an active compound in garlic) and diallyl disulfide [126]. Such compounds are able to block the formation of cancer-causing substances [127], halt the activation of cancer-causing substances [128, 129], enhance DNA repair [130], reduce cell proliferation, or induce apoptosis-programmed cell death (Table 1 and [126, 131]).
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Urtica Dioica (Nettle)
The origin of its Latin name, Urtica, means “I burn”, indicative of the stings caused by glandular hairs on the leaves that contain formic acid and histamine, two agents known to cause the stinging and skin irritation after contact. U. dioica leaf has a long history as an herbal remedy and nutritious addition to the diet. Nettle leaves are a rich source of essential amino acids, ascorbic acid, several mineral element, and vitamins, such as iron, provitamin A, and vitamin C [113]. Nettle extracts can be used to treat arthritis, hay fever, kidney problems, pain, and anemia. Nettle extracts possess hypoglycaemic properties and improve glucose tolerance [35]. U. dioica is believed to be antioxidant, immunesuppressive, antirheumatoid, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic [14]. Indeed, its leaf [114] and roots [115] extracts were effective against prostate cancer proliferation.
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Induction of insulin secretion by a component of Urtica dioica leave extract in perifused Islets of Langerhans and its in vivo effects in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats.
Farzami B, Ahmadvand D, Vardasbi S, Majin FJ, Khaghani Sh.
Source
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 14155-5399, Tehran, Iran. [email protected]
Abstract
The blood glucose lowering effect of Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle) as a medicinal plant has been noted in old writings such as those of Avicenna. Recently, there has also been other investigators that indicated the hypoglycemic effect of Urtica dioica. But so far, the mechanism of this effect has not been deduced. In this report, a perifusion system is arranged in which an exact number of Langerhans Islets were exposed to several fractions of extracts of Urtica dioica by TLC. The active ingredient fraction named F(1), caused a marked increase in insulin secretion. A simultaneous assay of glucose showed that the increase in insulin level was associated with a decrease in glucose level. Furthermore, the active component of Urtica dioica was found to increase the insulin content of blood sera in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats that were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with the active ingredient of the extract. The in vivo studies presented in this report show that not only an increase in insulin level of blood sera was observed in rats after 30 min from the initial point of injection but a simultaneous decrease of blood sugar was detected when similar sera was tested for glucose. The increase in insulin level was six times during the 120 min of our determination. The decrease in blood sugar was found to be similar both in the level and time of initiation. On the basis of our findings, we assume that F(1) is the active ingredient of plant leaves extract. The results show that the blood lowering effect of the extract was due to the enhancement of insulin secretion by Langerhance Isletes.
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Inhibition of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus replication in a lethal SARS-CoV BALB/c mouse model by stinging nettle lectin, Urtica dioica agglutinin.
Kumaki Y, Wandersee MK, Smith AJ, Zhou Y, Simmons G, Nelson NM, Bailey KW, Vest ZG, Li JK, Chan PK, Smee DF, Barnard DL.
Source—Institute for Antiviral Research, Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Science, 5600 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
Abstract——- Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) is a small plant monomeric lectin, 8.7 kDa in size, with an N-acetylglucosamine specificity that inhibits viruses from Nidovirales in vitro. In the current study, we first examined the efficacy of UDA on the replication of different SARS-CoV strains in Vero 76 cells. UDA inhibited virus replication in a dose-dependent manner and reduced virus yields of the Urbani strain by 90% at 1.1 ± 0.4 μg/ml in Vero 76 cells. Then, UDA was tested for efficacy in a lethal SARS-CoV-infected BALB/c mouse model. BALB/c mice were infected with two LD50 (575 PFU) of virus for 4 h before the mice were treated intraperitoneally with UDA at 20, 10, 5 or 0 mg/kg/day for 4 days. Treatment with UDA at 5 mg/kg significantly protected the mice against a lethal infection with mouse-adapted SARS-CoV (p < 0.001), but did not significantly reduce virus lung titers. All virus-infected mice receiving UDA treatments were also significantly protected against weight loss (p < 0.001). UDA also effectively reduced lung pathology scores. At day 6 after virus exposure, all groups of mice receiving UDA had much lower lung weights than did the placebo-treated mice. Thus, our data suggest that UDA treatment of SARS infection in mice leads to a substantial therapeutic effect that protects mice against death and weight loss. Furthermore, the mode of action of UDA in vitro was further investigated using live SARS-CoV Urbani strain virus and retroviral particles pseudotyped with SARS-CoV spike (S). UDA specifically inhibited the replication of live SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV pseudotyped virus when added just before, but not after, adsorption. These data suggested that UDA likely inhibits SARS-CoV infection by targeting early stages of the replication cycle, namely, adsorption or penetration. In addition, we demonstrated that UDA neutralizes the virus infectivity, presumably by binding to the SARS-CoV spike (S) glycoprotein. Finally, the target molecule for the inhibition of virus replication was partially characterized. When UDA was exposed to N-acetylglucosamine and then UDA was added to cells just prior to adsorption, UDA did not inhibit the virus infection. These data support the conclusion that UDA might bind to N-acetylglucosamine-like residues present on the glycosylated envelope glycoproteins, thereby preventing virus attachment to cells.
Recipe for Nettle–Make a tea with this by adding ¼ cup of nettle to a pot of water ( distilled ) bring to a boil and when boiled turn off and pour—you can as well fuse this with other herbs such as black tea –sage or do all 2 to increase the immune and sugar regulating functions as well and will synergize t o increase the potency of the properties of each herb
Ancient Remedial Use of Nettle—-Horse Nettle, Bull Nettle. S. E. United States.—The fresh juice of the fruit is concentrated by exposure to currents of air at a low temperature and preserved by the addition of some alcohol. This is the process. adopted by McHoy, Howe Co., of Indianapolis. They prepare it double strength. It is recommended largely in the treatment of epilepsy. Powder of the root has during recent years gained some repute as a remedy in infantile and hysterieal convulsions, but chiefly in epilepsy and paroxysms connected with menstrual derangements. Dose of Pdr. Root 10 grs. to 1 dr.—–The roots, leaves and tops are a positive, stimulating, tonic astringent; a powerful arrester of hemorrhages whether of the nose, lungs, stomach, bowels, uterus or urinary organs. It will also stop hemorrhages when applied locally and relieve painful hemorrhoids. The Fluid Extract when diluted forms a good wash for some eczemas
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Health benefits of Savory
Savory leaves and tender shoots contain incredibly high quality chemical compounds that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health promoting properties. In addition, dietary fiber in this herb helps reduce LDL or bad cholesterol while increasing HDL or good cholesterol levels.
Savory leaves contain many essential volatile oils phenols such as thymol and carvacrol, as well as linalool, camphene, caryophyllene, terpineol, myrcene, and other terpenoids.
Thymol, one of the important essential oils, has scientificaly been found to have antiseptic, anti-fungal characteristics.
In addition, another phenolic compound, carvacrol in savory inhibits the growth of several bacteria strains like E. coli and Bacillus cereus. Carvacol, therefore, has been used as food additive for its anti-bacterial properties and in addition, it gives pleasant tangy taste and marjoram like smell to the food.
Savory herb is an excellent source of minerals and vitamins that are essential for optimum health. Its leaves and tender shoots are one of the richest source of potasium, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and selenium. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Iron is required for red blood cell formation.
The herb is also a rich source of many important vitamins such as B-complex group vitamins, vitamin-A, vitamin-C, niacin, thiamin and pyridoxine.
Dry savory provides 1.810 mg of vitamin B-6 or pyridoxine; furnishing about 130% of RDA. Pyridoxine keeps up GABA (soothening neurotransmitter) levels in the brain which has stress buster function.
Vitamin C helps body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals.
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin and antioxidant that is required maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin and is also essential for vision. Consumption of natural fruits rich in flavonoids like vitamin A, carotenes helps protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
Dry savory herb has amazingly high levels of vitamins and minerals. Just 100 g of ground dry herb provides (% of Recommended daily allowance)
120% of dietary fiber,
25% of Niacin,
130% of vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine),
83% of vitamin C,
177% of vitamin A,
474% of iron,
210% of calcium,
94% magnesium,of and
265% of manganese
but no cholesterol.
table below for in depth analysis of nutrients:
Savory (Satureja hortensis), Dry, ground,
Nutrient value per 100 g
(Source: USDA National Nutrient data base)
Principle
Nutrient Value
Percentage of RDA
Energy
272 Kcal
13.5%
Carbohydrates
68.73 g
53%
Protein
6.73 g
12%
Total Fat
5.91 g
30%
Cholesterol
0 mg
0%
Dietary Fiber
45.7 g
120%
Vitamins
Niacin
4.080 mg
25.5%
Pyridoxine
1.810 mg
139%
Riboflavin
0.471 mg
36%
Thiamin
0.366 mg
30.5%
Vitamin A
5310 IU
177%
Vitamin C
50 mg
83%
Electrolytes
Sodium
24 mg
1.5%
Potassium
1051 mg
22%
Minerals
Calcium
2132 mg
210 %
Copper
0.847 mg
94%
Iron
37.88 mg
474%
Magnesium
377 mg
94 %
Manganese
6.100 mg
265%
Phosphorus
140 mg
20%
Selenium
4.6 mcg
8%
Zinc
4.30 mg
39%
Medicinal uses
Savory herb contains many important essential oils which are found to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal applications.
As in thyme, distilled tepid savory water is used for throat gargling to help relieve sore throat and bronchitis symptoms.
The constituents in this herb parts, especially the flowering shoots, has anti-septic, carminative (anti-flatulence), digestive (helps digestion), expectorant (help clear throat), stomachic and anti-rheumatic (relieves joint pain) functions.
Attributed Medicinal Properties
While both varieties are used in cooking, Summer Savory has a much longer tradition of medicinal use.It has long been reputed to be a general tonic to the digestive tract and as a powerful antiseptic. Branches of savory were tossed onto fire to create an aromatic disinfectant. Even today, because of its pungent oils, it is commonly used in toothpaste and soaps. Active compounds of the savory leaf include volatile oils (carvacrol, p-cymene, alpha-thujene, alpha-pinene, beta-myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, terpinene, and thymol), and tannic acid. The carvacol and p-cymene content of this herb give it a mild antiseptic effect. The tannin content is responsible for savory’s astringent qualities, making it a popular choice in the relief of diarrhea. The herb has also been used as a gargle for sore throat. As a digestive aid, savory is used in cases of indigestion and flatulence. It is often added as a spice to dishes containing beans for this reason. The most common medicinal use of savory today is in the treatment of gastrointestinal enteritis, the inflammation of the intestinal tract. In some folk cultures, savory has been used to increase libido.