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What is in my Family’s Immune Closet for Immune Support and fighting the Coronavirus and any flu or cold:

Sovereign Silver – the amazing immune boosting, antiviral, antibiotic, and antifungal properties of silver are something no one should be without.  Nature’s Original “Antibiotic”

Argentyn 23 – the practitioner grade version of Sovereign Silver.  With it’s 23ppm (compared to 10ppm in Sovereign Silver), this super strength silver is a must have.  Only available through establishments that have practitioners. 

Elderberry Syrup – immune boosting and reduces both the severity and length of the flu.  

Hyland’s Cold Tablets with Zinc – these homeopathic tablets are excellent for any cold or flu.

Hyland’s Defend Cold and Cough Syrup – This is a must-have-on-your-shelf kind of medicine. It’s comprehensive, meaning that it really provides comfort and relief for a broad range of cold symptoms including nasal congestion, cough, sore throat ,and sneezing.  Its ingredients are classic, well-proven homeopathic remedies that do their job well!

Hyland’s Complete Flu Care – Fights flu naturally.  Relieves: fever & chills, headache, body aches, cough, and congestion.

Ener-C – 1,000mg Vitamin C with Electrolytes to boost the Immune System and keep fully hydrated.  

Vitamin C – available in both capsules and powder.  This is the one thing in high dosages that the Chinese authorities have found works on the hospitalized Coronavirus patients. 

ALJ – an excellent respiratory blend to support the lungs and remove phlegm.  Also great for coughs.

SinuOrega – nasal spray which really removes the bacteria from the sinuses!  Excellent for any type of sinus issue or infection.

OregaSpray – Superb throat spray for any sore throat and full immune boosting

Propolis – a nutrient-packed compound produced by bees. It has been used for thousands of years to promote immune health and overall wellness. Researchers have identified hundreds of health-promoting compounds in propolis. 

Manuka Honey – known for its amazing immune properties especially the 515+ MGO! (Has been known to work on MRSA!)

Oregano – natural antibiotic and powerful antioxidant, known for it’s antiviral properties

Echinacea – fights the flu, fights inflammation, and helps healthy cell formation

Spirulina — Reduces severity of influenza infection and lowers influenza mortality in animal studies. In a human trial, spirulina significantly lowered the viral load in patients with HIV infection

Selenium — Selenium deficiency increases the rate at which viruses can mutate, promoting the evolution of strains that are more pathogenic and capable of evading immune surveillance.  Needed for healthy cellular reproduction.

Zinc — Supports “effective function and proliferation of various immune cells,” lowering mortality in the elderly by 27%

Specific to children, what I give Yalissa is:
Sovereign Silver
Elderberry Syrup
Hyland’s Baby Cold Tablets (the children’s version of the adult Cold Tablets)
Hyland’s Kid’s Cold and Cough Syrup
Hyland’s Kid’s Cold and Flu Syrup
Hyland’s Vitamin C for Kids
ALJ Liquid
Vitamin C Powder or Ener-C packets

Be sure to browse our large selection of immune boosting supplements and natural anti-virals on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.  

And finally, some interesting information about the Coronavirus from Dr Mercola…

  • According to bioweapons expert Francis Boyle, evidence suggests COVID-19 is a weaponized coronavirus originating from the Biosafety Level 4 facility in Wuhan City, China.
  • COVID-19 appears to be a chimera consisting of SARS (an already weaponized coronavirus), HIV genetic material, and influenza virus, designed with gain of function properties that allow it to spread a greater distance than normal.
  • Others research has suggested COVID-19 may involve Prevotella, a bacterium known to cause respiratory tract infections, and that this may explain some of the observed symptoms and how it can spread through feces.
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What’s in your milk? Choose organic for the cleanest milk, says new study

Milk is an important part of the human diet. It provides protein, fat, calcium, and vitamin D, and for the youngest members of our population it is especially critical as a main source of many nutrients. But not all milk is created equal.  

For nearly 15 years, studies have repeatedly shown that organic milk has a healthier nutritional profile. Organic milk contains more of the good omega 3 fatty acids, more antioxidants, and a higher nutrient mineral content than conventional milk. Dairy cows under organic management eat more grass than those under conventional management and that difference in their diet results in more nutrient-rich milk.  

Now a study conducted by researchers at Emory University, in collaboration with The Organic Center, found that a majority of samples of conventional retail milk tested positive for residues of antibiotics – two of which are banned from dairy production — and currently used controversial pesticides. Organic milk showed no such contaminants. Residues of growth hormones in conventional milk were 20 times higher than in organic. The results of this important study were published online by the peer-reviewed public health journal Public Health Nutrition.

Highlights of the findings

Antibiotic residues were detected in 60% of conventional milk samples and none of the organic samples. Significantly, 37% of the conventional samples tested positive for sulfamethazine, and 26 percent for sulfathiazole, both of which have long been outlawed in lactating dairy cows. Furthermore, one of the conventional samples contained residue levels of amoxicillin that exceeded the federally-allowed limit.

Pesticide residues of chlorpyrifos, atrazine, permethrin, and more were found in 26% to 60% of conventional samples and none of the organic samples. Residues of the controversial and restricted-use pesticide chlorpyrifos showed up in 59% of the conventional samples.

To conduct the study, researchers out of Emory University tested for residues of currently used pesticides and antibiotics in U.S. milk purchased directly from store shelves, comparing conventional milk (35 samples across 18 brands) to organic milk (34 samples across 10 brands). 

Because the overuse of antibiotics can increase resistance to those antibiotics and make them less effective for both humans and animals, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set limits on detectable levels of antibiotics in food. In this study, antibiotics were not found in organic samples, but were detected in 60% of conventional milk samples. Specifically, residues of amoxicillin, oxytetracycline, sulfamethazine, sulfadimethoxine, and sulfathiazole were all detected in conventional milk.   

Importantly, residues of sulfamethazine were found in 37% of the conventional samples, and sulfathiazole in 26%. The use of both of these antibiotics for dairy cows has long been banned by the FDA due to concerns about the impact of sulfa drugs on human health. When cows are treated with sulfa drugs, residues of the drug show up in milk, and exposure to them can lead to health problems in humans. The biggest health concern is a life-threatening allergic reaction (acute hypersensitivity). About 2% of the general population is severely allergic to sulfa drugs. Outside of allergic reactions, there are many adverse side effects connected to the sulfonamide class of antibiotics.  

People enjoy dairy in all places and in all situations, whether it’s a bowl of cereal and milk or yogurt and fruit at our breakfast table, cream with our coffee at the local coffee shop or cheese on our pizza at our favorite restaurant. Organic dairy is the No. 2 selling category in the U.S. organic industry, with products such as organic cheese, organic butter, organic sour cream all seeing greater sales as consumers seek out higher quality dairy products. And providing for all that organic dairy are more than 2,500 organic dairy farms across the nation.  

What does organic dairy mean? Organic dairy farmers are required to adhere to the federal organic standards that ensure organic dairy is produced sustainably, with the health of the cows and the health of the consumers in mind. While there are a number of important distinctions between organic and conventional dairy, the main differences are related to what the cows eat, where they spend their time, and how they are treated if/when they get sick.

Organic dairy means no use of antibiotics, synthetic growth hormones, GMO’s, or conventional pesticides. In organic dairy the health and natural behavior of cows are prioritized with holistic and preventative care practices as a primary management strategy. Organic cows are pasture-raised and grazed throughout the grazing season, and all livestock are fed an organic diet. 

The significant findings of this study break new ground, and could be a guide to consumers wanting to choose the healthiest and cleanest milk for their families.

Be sure to browse our organic dairy selection from milk to butter, to cream to cheese and more on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.  

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5 ways to avoid gallstones naturally

According to the most current data about gallstones –  deposits of crystallized cholesterol in the gallbladder or bile ducts, about 15 percent of the American population are affected by this preventable condition.

And, while many gallstones are “silent” and cause no symptoms, serious complications – including bile duct infection, pancreatitis, and an increased risk of heart disease and gallbladder cancer – can sometimes occur. The good news: a variety of natural nutrients and supplements can help slash your risk of developing these potentially troublesome deposits.

Just don’t expect your conventionally trained physician to talk to you about this.

In fact, the “typical response” of Western medicine is to surgically remove the gallbladder (a procedure known as cholecystectomy), if there’s a problem.  But, again, you ought to know that there are many non-invasive, non-toxic techniques to ward off gallstones.  Let’s take a closer look!

Warning: The standard American diet is a perfect “recipe” for promoting the development of gallstones

When it comes to raising the risk of gallstones, a high toxic (such as vegetable oils, soy oil, etc) fat, high calorie, and highly processed diet is a primary culprit.  Unfortunately, with the ease of obtaining “fast” foods, junk foods, and highly processed foods, this is the diet of far too many people.

Other factors that can raise the risk of developing gallstones include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, increasing age, and certain medications, such as diuretics.  Genetics can also play a role. And, women are statistically more likely to develop gallstones than men.

The following substances have been shown in human and animal studies to be particularly effective against gallstones.

Observational study: Vitamin C supplementation slashes gallstone risk
A potent antioxidant, vitamin C works in the body to scavenge harmful free radicals and reduce the oxidative stress that plays a role in gallstone formation.  By helping to convert excess cholesterol into bile acids, vitamin C may help reduce cholesterol concentrations, thereby decreasing the chance of gallstones.

In a 2009 observational study involving over 2,100 subjects, researchers found that regular vitamin C users were a whopping 66 percent less likely to develop gallstones than those who didn’t supplement.

Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil discourage gallstone formation
Fish oil, rich in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, has received kudos from natural health experts for its ability to reduce inflammation, support healthy cardiovascular function, and ease depression.  Now, research shows that EPA and DHA, the primary fatty acids in fish oil, also help prevent gallstones.  Like vitamin C, EPA and DHA inhibit cholesterol crystallization and improve bile composition. 

SAM-e is a useful tool for promoting gallbladder health
SAM-e, short for S-adenosylmethionine, is a molecule found naturally in the body. With potent anti-inflammatory and mood-elevating effects, SAM-e is currently used to treat a variety of ills, including arthritis pain and depression.  This versatile compound also has a protective effect on the liver and gallbladder.

In addition, SAM-e improves bile flow and decreases cholesterol concentration – two important defenses against gallbladder problems. Like vitamin C, it contributes to antioxidant protection, and reduces the oxidative stress that can trigger gallstones.

Note: researchers have found that women with increased estrogen levels are more likely to suffer from gallstones. Significantly, SAM-e reduced bile cholesterol by almost one third in women taking oral contraceptives.

Natural health experts normally advise SAM-e dosages in the area of 600 mg to 1,200 mg a day.

Curcumin from turmeric: The “golden spice” has a glowing reputation for fighting gallstones
Curcumin, the active ingredient in the medicinal spice turmeric, has long been valued by natural healers for its ability to ease inflammation, combat infection, and fight cancer. A carotenoid, or natural plant pigment, curcumin is responsible for the brilliant yellow-orange coloration of turmeric.

Both animal and human studies have shown that curcumin has the ability to improve cholesterol and lipid metabolism, increase bile flow, reduce gallbladder inflammation, and promote normal bile acid metabolism.

EGCG in green tea may fight not only gallstones – but deadly gallbladder diseases as well
EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is a flavonoid found in green tea. This potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory has been demonstrated to prevent gallstones in animals – and human studies back this up.  Not only does EGCG prevent gallstones, but it appears to play a role in warding off some of the potentially life-threatening forms of gallbladder disease.

A population-based study in China, published in International Journal of Cancer, showed that drinking at least one cup of green tea for six months cut the risk of developing gallstones by 27 percent, the risk of bile duct cancer by 35 percent, and the risk of gallbladder cancer by 44 percent.  Not a bad payoff for merely sipping a daily cup of fragrant and refreshing green tea!

Take action: Reduce the risk of gallstones with natural techniques
You can cut your risk of gallstones by removing white sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated or trans fats from your diet – while eating plenty of fiber-rich fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy amounts of monounsaturated fats (such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil).

And, it couldn’t hurt to add garlic, onions, fenugreek, and cayenne to your diet – all have been associated with lower risk of gallstones.

And, finally, increasing your activity level can help ward off gallstones, too. One study showed that between two and three hours of moderate exercise per week could lower the odds of developing gallstones by 25 percent.

Be sure to check out Vitamin C, Fish Oil, SAMe, Curcumin, and EGCG supplements as well as our large selection of green teas on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.  Also, if you are already struggling with gallstone, talk to Dr Jocelin about a natural gallbladder cleanse.  

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Soybean Oil Linked to Genetic and Neurological Damage

Whether partially hydrogenated, organic, or genetically modified to be low in linoleic acid, soybean oil can cause dysfunction at a cellular level 

An estimated 94% of the soybeans grown in the U.S. are genetically engineered (GE) to tolerate herbicides, primarily glyphosate (the active ingredient in Monsanto/Bayer’s Roundup), which cannot be washed off. As a result, most soybean-based products are contaminated with glyphosate, which compounds their toxicity.

Recent research warns soybean oil can cause neurological and metabolic changes associated with autism, Alzheimer’s, anxiety, depression, obesity, insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease

Your hypothalamus is a key regulator of homeostasis and metabolism in your body, and also plays a role in your stress response and hormone regulation.  According to a recent study, diets high in soybean oil, caused dysfunction in about 100 different genes in the hypothalamus, including one that is responsible for producing oxytocin, colloquially known as “the love hormone,” which has beneficial effects on your heart.  Other dysregulated genes included ones associated with “inflammation, neuroendocrine, neurochemical, and insulin signaling.” 

Soy also has high amounts of processed omega-6 skewing your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. 

To avoid dangerous fats of all kinds, your best option is to eliminate processed foods from your diet. When cooking, coconut oil, butter, olive oil, and ghee are healthy options. Also be sure to swap out margarines and vegetable oil spreads for organic butter, preferably made from raw grass fed milk. Butter is a healthy whole food that has received an unwarranted bad rap.

Other healthy fats to include in your diet are avocados, raw dairy products, olive oil, olives, organic pastured eggs, and organic raw nuts. To further balance your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio you may also need a high-quality source of omega-3 fat, if you’re not in the habit of eating small, fatty fish such as sardines, anchovies and mackerel, and/or wild caught Alaskan salmon.

Be sure to check out healthy fats including Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Butter, Organic Ghee, and Fish Oil supplements on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.  Bonus – the fish oil supplements are on sale this month for American Heart Month!

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Clinical OPC Heart

For Heart Health Month, I want to highlight one of my favorite Heart Supplements!

Clinical OPC® Heart provides ingredients in their most effective bio-available forms, for excellent absorption and cardiovascular benefits:

  • Magnesium supports healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure levels. The magnesium in this formula is chelated to the amino acid glycine, so it absorbs more readily in the intestines.
  • Benfotiamine is a form of vitamin B1 that remains in the bloodstream longer than the water-soluble form, thiamine. It supports healthy circulation, arterial function, and blood vessel strength.
  • Vitamin B6 in the P-5-P form is required by the system that transports oxygen and blood to the heart. The pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) form requires no conversion by the liver, so it can be easily utilized to support cardiovascular health.
  • French Grape Seed VX1® provides a tannin-free source of 100% absorbable oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) to support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol balance.
  • Pomegranate Fruit Extract supports healthy arteries and blood vessel flexibility with powerful polyphenols.

 
Be sure to check out Clinical OPC Heart as well as all of our other heart support supplements on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.  Bonus – they are on sale this month for American Heart Month!

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How trace minerals help to heal the body

Even if you try to eat a healthy, organic diet – you could be at risk for nutritional deficiencies without realizing it.  In fact, the National Institutes of Health concluded that “the vast majority of people in both affluent and emerging industrialized countries do not reach even 75 percent of the RDAs for numerous trace minerals.”

The importance of nutrient status (and deficiencies) cannot be overstated. For example, magnesium deficiency is widespread among Americans. One study, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, shows that 68% of Americans are magnesium deficient and, some experts like Carolyn Dean, MD have been warning the public for years.

What is the importance of trace minerals?
Some minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, are more common in food and in your body. Trace minerals, on the other hand, are essential minerals that you only need in trace amounts.

The following is a condensed look at certain minerals and their purpose in the body:

Chromium is necessary for proper regulation of blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity.

Cobalt is present in vitamin B12, and it is necessary for generating healthy, red blood cells.

Zinc allows for proper immune response, growth, antioxidant function, and wound healing.

Selenium is necessary for proper antioxidant function and liver detoxification. It is also essential for healthy muscles and hair.

Iodine is necessary for your body to make thyroid hormone – which is involved in almost every process in your body including energy metabolism and temperature regulation.

Bottom line, trace minerals are essential to protect against common health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Without enough trace minerals, you’re also susceptible to contamination from heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead.

Why modern farming techniques MUST change to help save humanity
Why aren’t Americans getting enough trace minerals from their food supply?  Obviously, we should be looking at soil content.  Over the past century, the quality of our soil has been depleted by 85 percent – mainly due to modern methods of farming.

The agricultural sector is driven by crop yield, using every possible method to increase the number of pounds harvested. Intensive farming, combined with soil erosion, has resulted in soil with a lower mineral content. To make matters worse, chemical fertilizers are insufficient to replace the minerals needed for optimal health and poison the environment.

The singular focus on agricultural yield comes at the expense of nutritious food products and the nutritional status and health of Americans. Fruits and vegetables are now grown in soil with a lower nutrient content than in the past. A study in Canada found that tomatoes, spinach, cabbage, and lettuce have on average one-eighth the mineral content today than they did at the beginning of the 20th century.

The ocean provides a natural way to correct mineral deficiencies
If you just can’t depend on the produce section, how can you give your body the nutrients it needs to heal your body? The answer may lie in the ocean, which is rich in minerals.  They’re in their complete, non-denatured form, which is the form most beneficial (and recognizable) to the human body.

Be sure to check out our Natural Factor’s Whole Earth & Sea Mineral Blend as well as our specific mineral supplements on your next visit to Whitaker’s Natural Market.

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Why your vitamin D levels are dependent on magnesium

The number of Americans with nutrient deficiencies or even “subclinical insufficiencies” is high, ranging from 10 to 90 percent depending on the study and nutrient in question.  This is exactly why adding high quality nutritional supplements to a balanced diet can help correct these deficits, especially when it comes to low vitamin D levels in the body.

In terms of improving your vitamin D status, it’s important to understand that certain nutrients like magnesium, can greatly improve the absorption of vitamin D.  In fact, research shows that to enjoy optimal bone (and heart) health, you’ll definitely want to consider this critical mineral.

Multiple studies, including a paper from The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, have found that vitamin D deficiency is linked to low magnesium levels. This evidence clearly suggests that magnesium is essential for the proper digestion and assimilation of vitamin D.

“All of the enzymes that metabolize vitamin D seem to require magnesium,” say the authors of the March 2018 paper, called “Role of Magnesium in Vitamin D Activation and Function.”  Magnesium, they add, functions “as a cofactor in the enzymatic reactions in the liver and kidneys.”

The authors also remind readers that a deficiency in either vitamin D, magnesium, or both is linked to a range of conditions including metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and bone health impairments.  In addition, a vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of diabetes, depression, psoriasis, and breast, colon, and prostate cancers!

It seems that increasing your magnesium intake can really pay off, by the way. A 2013 study found that people who regularly consumed foods rich in magnesium were less likely to be deficient in vitamin D compared to people who didn’t consume a lot of magnesium in their diet. And other research shows that people with high levels of magnesium are also less likely to have low bone mineral density (something that vitamin D normally plays a critical role in).

These two nutrients are so closely linked that it may be time to start thinking about them as a pair – you can’t worry about one without worrying about the other.

10 rich sources of magnesium designed to boost your overall well-being

As you probably know, healthy (direct) sun exposure is one of the best ways to ensure you produce enough vitamin D within your body.  But, you can also consume vitamin D via supplements or in certain foods such as whole eggs and liver.

But there is one major health concern: If you’re not consuming enough magnesium, then your efforts to get enough of the “sunshine vitamin” will be ineffective, at best.  So, be sure to add in these ten magnesium-rich foods into your weekly diet (consider adding a high quality magnesium supplement as well):

Bananas
Spinach
Avocado
Cashews
Almonds
Pumpkin seeds
Oily fish
Lima beans
Sesame seeds
Peanut butter

Men, aim for around 400 to 420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day. Women, strive for 310 to 320, and if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding consult with your naturopathic doctor, since you may need more.

Be sure to check out our Magnesium rich foods, Magnesium supplements, and Vitamin D supplements at Whitaker’s Natural Market!  Dr Jocelin’s Personal Favorites are Magnesium Complex and Vitamin D3 (5,000 IU) with MK7 for their high absorb-ability.  

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18 signs that you need a liver detox

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – deposits of fat in the liver that can’t be attributed to excessive drinking – currently affects well over 100 million Americans.  And, while nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can be quite mild, untreated NAFLD can lead to serious complications such as, liver cancer, liver failure, and premature death.  Simply put, in this article, you’ll discover why a liver detox is a must for most people.

Many natural health experts, including Sara Gottfried, MD, a Harvard-educated functional medicine doctor, stress the importance of liver detox as an indispensable weapon against liver disease.  “I used to think a liver detox was a luxury,” admits Dr. Gottlieb, “but now I realize that it’s an imperative.”

Is your liver sending out the “SOS” signals that indicate an urgent need for liver detox?  Today, we’ll focus our attention on the symptoms linked to liver dysfunction and two nutrients vital for protecting your liver health.

Fatty liver disease can affect your health by interfering with the detoxifying function of the liver, impairing the metabolism of nutrients, inhibiting oxygen uptake, and weakening the immune system.

But what is behind this worldwide epidemic?

Experts say that NAFLD is primarily caused by the excessive consumption of calories – particularly from high-carbohydrate, high-sugar, and processed foods.  But, while obesity is one of the “engines” driving the high incidence of NAFLD, it is not the only culprit.

Exposure to a wide array of environmental toxins can also threaten liver health.

On a daily basis, we are exposed to a truly overwhelming barrage of toxins – including pesticides, herbicides, preservatives, cleaning chemicals, air pollution, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), cigarette smoke, heavy metals, and electromagnetic radiation from laptops and smart phones.

In addition, medications – both prescribed and over-the-counter – and alcohol can contribute to the toxin burden on the liver.  Plus, certain medical conditions – such as metabolic syndrome, gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes – can increase the odds of developing liver disease.

So, without any further ado, here are the 18 signs that a liver detox is needed.  Of course, if you are experiencing these issues, an immediate visit to your naturopathic doctor is a smart move.

The wide range of symptoms that indicate liver disease:

Pain or discomfort under the right side of your rib cage
Difficulty digesting fatty foods
Abdominal bloating
Skin issues like, dark liver spots or rashes
Dark circles under the eyes
Itchiness of the skin
Dry skin
Weight gain – not due to overeating
Frustrating inability to lose excess body weight, despite calorie restriction
Excess abdominal fat
Powerful cravings for sugar, alcohol, or coffee
Yellowish or whitish coating of the tongue or bad breath
Mood swings and mood disturbances
Fatigue that is not relieved by sleeping more
Heavy snoring or sleep apnea
Allergies and autoimmune disorders
Jaundice – in which the skin or the whites of the eyes appear yellow
And, finally, excessive sweating

If you suffer from these symptoms, your naturopathic doctor may advise a liver detoxification protocol – consisting of reducing exposure to toxins, proper nutrition, and the use of  liver-healing herbs and supplements.

Fortunately, plenty of liver-supporting nutrients exist to help soothe an inflamed, fatty liver.  Among these, two in particular stand out.  The following pair of “liver health heavyweights” can help reduce inflammation and promote liver cell regeneration – putting you on the fast track to better liver health.

Glutathione, the body’s “master antioxidant” is an important ally in liver health
This disease-fighting enzyme is found in every cell in the body – but is most heavily concentrated in the liver.  In other words, the liver can be considered “Glutathione Central.”  A powerful antioxidant, glutathione defends against disease by reducing oxidative damage and neutralizing toxins and carcinogens.

It also boosts the immune system, decreases inflammation, repairs DNA, and helps to recycle other important antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10.  While experts say we should strive to take in 250 mg of dietary glutathione every day, most Americans only manage to ingest about 35 mg.

For liver support, natural health experts may recommend dosages of glutathione in the area of 200 mg to 500 mg a day.  However, it’s always best to consult with your naturopathic doctor before supplementing.

Non-toxic milk thistle fights liver disease “across the board”

Milk thistle, botanically known as Silybum marianum, is rich in silymarin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.  Silymarin helps to prevent the binding of toxins to cell membrane receptors, thereby neutralizing carcinogens and biological toxins.

It also offers a trio of benefits that seem specifically designed to fight fatty liver disease – promoting the regeneration of liver cells, helping to prevent liver scarring, and interfering with the accumulation of fats in the liver.

Milk thistle’s therapeutic properties have been backed up by studies. Research has shown that milk thistle extract inhibits pro-inflammatory pathways and substantially reduces markers of liver inflammation in patients with chronic liver disease.

Although our liver can work heroically to cleanse and detoxify the blood, the truth is: these hard-working organs sometimes require a little TLC.  Therefore, a liver detox can provide that much-needed support and represent the first step back on the road to a healthy life.

Stop in today to talk to Dr Jocelin about how to best support and detoxify your Liver as well as consider scheduling a consult with her to optimize your health completely.  Also, be sure to check out our Glutathione and Milk Thistle supplements at Whitaker’s Natural Market!

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The use of manuka honey medicinally is becoming far more than just an “alternative” treatment.

A type of honey native to the country of New Zealand, it’s produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush.  And, although the conventional medical community had dismissed its value for some time, there’s now an increasing interest in its therapeutic uses by the general public, integrative healthcare providers, and researchers.

One of the big things driving the renewed interested in manuka honey is the increase in antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens – which has resulted in more interested in the development of novel antibacterial agents. There’s also a growing number of studies that support not only the antimicrobial and antibacterial benefits of this honey but additional health benefits, as well.

Studies show it’s a smart move to eat manuka honey
Several studies have shown and highlighted the antibacterial and antimicrobial effects of Manuka honey. One study investigated the use of this honey on four types of bacteria found in chronic wounds – Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis.  In fact, the manuka honey was found to help inhibit the growth of these types of bacteria.

A different study, published in the Journal of Wound Care, specifically looked at the bacteriological changes that occurred in sloughy venous leg ulcers that were treated with manuka honey – compared to the use of hydrogel.  In four weeks of treatment, 70% of the wounds treated with manuka honey – as opposed to only 17% of those treated with hydrogel – had MRSA eradicated.

The results show the incredible potential this honey has at preventing infection by harnessing its antimicrobial properties.  Other studies have not only shown that the honey enhances wound healing, but it also helps decrease pain in burn patients and amplifies tissue regeneration as well.

Additional health benefits of this healing honey
Manuka honey offers many other health benefits beyond treating and healing wounds, and most of them are a result of the honey’s antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

Additional health benefits include:

Promotes healthy teeth and gums: Most Americans have some type of gum disease, and minimizing oral bacteria is the best way to keep teeth and gums healthy. Studies show that manuka honey’s antibacterial activity attacks the oral bacteria associated with tooth decay and gum inflammation.

Sore throat relief: Many find that manuka honey offers relief from a sore throat, and its antibacterial and antiviral properties can help reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria causing throat pain. It also provides a soothing effect by coating the inner lining of your throat.

Improved digestion: Digestive problems like IBS, which is associated with symptoms like irregular bowel movements, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, may be effectively treated with manuka honey.  It helps reduce inflammation of the digestive system and may offer significant relief.

Gastric ulcer prevention: Stomach ulcers are very common, and these sores on the stomach’s lining can cause bloating, pain, and nausea. The most common type of bacteria responsible for ulcers is H. pylori, and research shows that manuka honey may work as an antibacterial agent against this type of bacteria, helping to prevent ulcers.

No doubt, manuka honey has unique antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that offer a variety of health benefits.  Make sure to look for manuka honey with a high UMF number to reap the best results.

Be sure to pick up your Manuka Honey available in four different UMF strengths at Whitaker’s Natural Market!

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Unpasteurized or organic apple cider vinegar medicinal uses come from the “mother of vinegar,” which is made up of living nutrients and beneficial bacteria.

Let’s discuss an ingredient that even Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was said to have used and prescribed: apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar (also referred to as ACV) is a type of vinegar made through the fermentation of apple cider. Specifically, it’s made by crushing apples to squeeze out the juice. Bacteria and yeast are then added to the juice to start the alcoholic fermentation process, which turns the sugars into alcohol. Then, in a second fermentation process, the alcohol is converted into vinegar by acetic acid-forming bacteria. Acetic acid and malic acid give vinegar its sour taste.

Most of the apple cider vinegar you buy in the store is then filtered and pasteurized to give it a clean appearance and to kill off all the bacteria to give it a long shelf life — but that’s not the ACV we’re interested in.

Many of organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar’s medicinal uses come from the “mother of vinegar,” which is made up of living nutrients and bacteria that you can actually see in the bottom of bottles of raw apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar as an all-around natural health remedy has been gaining in popularity, and when you look at the benefits, you won’t be surprised.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Diabetes
One ACV health benefit that research has suggested is helping with diabetes. It is believed that the acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar may help prevent digestion of complex carbohydrates in your food, which would help to lower blood sugar. A few studies help support this idea. But that’s just the beginning. One study found that two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bed lowered glucose levels of study participants in the morning by four to six percent. Another study showed vinegar improves insulin sensitivity to a high-carbohydrate meal in 19% of subjects with type 2 diabetes and 34 percent with pre-diabetes. The net result is that taking apple cider vinegar with meals can lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Apple Cider Vinegar as a Weight Loss Aid
Another key health benefit of apple cider vinegar is weight loss. A 2009 study on mice showed that consuming acetic acid (the active component in ACV) upregulates the expression of genes for fatty acid oxidation enzymes in the liver, causing a suppression in body fat accumulation. In another study, a double-blind trial showed that a daily intake of apple cider vinegar might be useful in the prevention of metabolic syndrome by reducing obesity.

In addition, taking vinegar seems to work as a weight loss aid by making you feel full, which in turn helps reduce the number of calories you consume. In a 2005 study, participants who consumed vinegar with a high-carb meal (a bagel and juice) consumed on average 200 to 275 less calories per day. The vinegar also helped lower glucose and insulin responses.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Throat and Sinus Issues
Apple cider vinegar is anathema to all kinds of germs that attack the throat. In effect, it acts like a sponge and draws out throat germs and toxins from the surrounding tissue. It also helps clear up the sinuses by breaking up and reducing mucous. Since it has antibacterial properties, it is also useful in helping with infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin Issues
Apple cider vinegar can help your skin in a number of ways. A concoction of two parts water and one part apple cider vinegar can be used as a skin toner. You can either apply it directly on a skin irritation or soak in a bath with about one cup of apple cider vinegar to help relieve many skin irritations such as sunburns, bug bites, and poison ivy exposure. It is also said to help fade age spots and acne scars, and help remove warts.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones
Apples, apples juice, and apple cider vinegar contain natural malic acid, but of the three, apple cider vinegar has the highest concentration. This is important because studies have shown that malic acid supplementation increases urinary citrate excretion and urinary pH: both of which help in dissolving calcium oxalate stones, the most common form of kidney stones.

Other Natural Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
In addition to the mentioned uses above, apple cider vinegar also has the following health benefits…

Potassium, magnesium, and other minerals are present in the apple cider vinegar “mother.” Potassium controls the water balance in the body and maintains a healthy heart rhythm. Magnesium is a catalyst in enzyme activity, helping digestion and assisting in the uptake of calcium to form healthy bones. The “mother” is also a rich source of iron, beneficial phytochemicals, and it is high in prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

ACV stimulates a condition called acetolysis in which toxic wastes that are harmful to the body are broken down and rendered harmless.

Mixing one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with water and a little honey and drinking with meals can be helpful for those with digestive problems.

Apple Cider Vinegar Around the Home
In addition to all its health benefits, vinegar can also be useful around the home for a variety of uses. Because of its antimicrobial properties, vinegar is often touted as one of the best natural cleaning agents. In fact, one study found the key ingredient in vinegar, acetic acid, is lethal to E. coli.  A combination of vinegar and lemon juice may also be effective against salmonella.

Apple cider vinegar is also touted as a key ingredient in an effective natural weed killer formula, a way to neutralize odors in the home, and a key ingredient for a water/vinegar produce bath. For the produce bath, use 10% vinegar to 90% water and briefly swish and soak your produce. However, it is not advised to do this with porous fruits like berries since they can soak up the vinegar and be damaged in the process.

Apple Cider Vinegar is also excellent in many recipes, from pickles to salad dressings. Just make sure you find unpasteurized, organic apple cider vinegar for the real health benefits. The darker or murkier the bottom of the bottle is, the better.

Be sure to pick up your Organic Unfiltered Unpasteurized Apple Cider Vinegar available in pints, quarts, and gallons at Whitaker’s Natural Market!