VISTA Magazine #60 by Chris Hart

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contents Issue 60 | Sept / Oct 2008

Editor’s Healthlines

By Carol Crenna

Hot and Bothered? Get Help for Skin Inflammation

By Susan McLoughlin Natural help to heal skin troubles

10 Best Alter-nut-ive: Almonds By John Austen popular nut

18 28

The quest for rest

Health benefits of the

12 The Healing Power of a Great Night’s Sleep By Steven Hefferon during the night

Heal your back

14 The Dish on Fat By Brendan Brazier essential fats

Where to get your

18 What’s in Your Medicine Cabinet?

By AJ Keillor fight a cold

Natural remedies to

20 In and Out of Pain: Therapy That Helps By John Austen ails you

Vibrations heal what

22 The Stress Factor

By Marva Ward fight s-t-r-e-s-s

The best vitamins to

24 Curcumin: The Cancer Fighter

By Dr. Neil McKinney colour in turmeric

The powerful

26 Good Catch! Fish Oil and Cholesterol

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

By Jolie Martin Root help your heart?

How does fish oil

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VISTA Publisher’s M A G A Z I N E

Publisher:

Trent Nellis

Editor:

Carol Crenna

Marketing Director & Associate Editor:

Shelly-Lynn Nellis

Copy Editor:

Jennifer Simpson

Art Director:

Cindy Hughes

Graphic Design:

Chris Hart

Vice-President, Sales:

Paul Airut tel (778) 222-7775 e-mail paulairut@telus.net

Cover photo:

andrew johnson

Contributing Writers: Alain Prud’homme, AJ Keillor,

Brendan Brazier, Bruce Schennum, Carol Crenna, Cory Holly, Daryl Peterson, Dean Bonlit, Dr. Henry Chang Franco Cavaleri, Francois Moncourt, Joel Thuna, Joanne Carr, Jolie Root, John Austen, Matthew Tim Anderson, Marva Ward, Mark Schneider, Michelle Kwon, Neil McKinney, Robbin Coedy, Ruza Jelinkova, Serenity Aberdour, Sophia Stewart, Susan McLoughlin, Stefan Kuprowsky, Steven Hefferon, Shelly-Lynn Nellis, Tracy Holly, Tricia Coleman, Vince Ziccarelli VISTA Magazine publishes bi-monthly issues and is distributed through the health food retailers of Canada. Send all questions, comments, and inquiries to: VISTA Magazine 13256 55A Avenue Surrey, BC CANADA V3X 3B3 Tel (604) 591-9991 or (877) 905-7771 Fax (604) 591-1989 e-mail vistamag@gmail.com www.vistamagonline.com VISTA Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect those of the VISTA Magazine publisher, editors or staff. Readers are encouraged to consult with their health professional before embarking upon any exercise, medical or nutritional changes. Contents of VISTA Magazine are copyright 2008, all rights reserved. VISTA Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher. To subscribe to VISTA Magazine and receive delivery to your home or office bimonthly, send $39.95 plus GST = $41.95. Include your address and we’ll ship you our next issue. Single copies are also available for $6.95 plus GST = $7.37. Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40025872 ISSN #1715-8214 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Magazine Fund toward our editorial costs.

word

A change will do you good!

t this same time every year when I sit down to write my Pubs Word piece, I cannot help but wonder where the summer has gone. It always seems to come and leave us so very quickly. September always brings the year’s schedule back into play. As summer vacations are ending and kids returning to school, we tend to adhere to a more regimented allotment of our time. With the change in seasons comes an opportunity for us to make changes in our personal lives. Applying something new or different to your daily routine can produce surprisingly positive beneficial results for anyone. I recently have added some simple photo: shelly lynn nellis yoga stretching to my life, with 20 minutes first thing in the morning and 20 minutes just before bed in the evening. I did not embark upon this without pre-conceived thoughts towards yoga. I always figured it was simply not for me and had never before attempted yoga or been interested in it. I really enjoy stretching and have always done it before and after exercise, but as I would discover this was entirely different than what I had become accustomed to and to say the least, very challenging. When I began I could barely do the most-simple movements, due to my newly discovered, very limited flexibility. I quickly realized that I do not have the perfect body type for yoga. However, I will say that adding this to my daily routine has made a world of difference in how I feel both physically and mentally. I no longer have stress related back or neck tension. Anxiety seems to pass by me much easier that it used to. I think I may have actually tapped into some inner peace. Who knew? My flexibility is increasing every day and I think the yoga is actually helping my golf game. Now I’m definitely not saying everyone should run out and buy a yoga mat and head of to your nearest studio to begin your journey of enlightenment and spiritual cleansing. What I am suggesting is that we all should continue to add things to our lives that will enrich and enhance our everyday existence. My wife recently got me started on a Sam Graci ritual of having a glass of water with a quarter of a lemon squeezed in it to enable you to alkalize your body first thing in the morning. We know that cancer cannot survive in an alkaline environment so this seemed like a very worthy change to add to the start of my daily routine and it actually tastes great. These simple amendments can make all the difference in the world. Try something new and unusual that you know will be advantageous to you. You might have to go through an adjustment period of discomfort or uncertainty but if you choose to do something you know will help you, in the end you can only benefit. We only have one life and to continue to endeavor to make it better is to pursue with a purpose.

Trent E. Nellis, Publisher To contact Trent Nellis via e‑mail, write to thepub@shaw.ca

Health Action Network Society

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

contents 28 You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet: Randy Bachman

www.vistamagonline.com

52 Herbs for Your Heart

By Daryl Peterson Chinese remedies keep your heart strong

By Carol Crenna Interview with musician Randy Bachman

30 Vitamin C: Nutrient Workhorse

By Dr. Serenity Aberdour Do you need to be getting more vitamin C?

32 Saving Face: Skin Care for Your 40s, 50s and 60s

By Carol Crenna Natural ways to keep your face youthful

Learn about your

By Ruza Jelinkova You don’t need to reach for pain medication

56 Calcium Co-Workers: What You Need To Take With It

By Trisha Coleman Calcium supplements need other nutrient helpers

58 Let Nutrition Help ADHD By Vince Ziccarelli the restless brain

Part two: Exercise

73 Finally Finding Relief from Arthritis

By Michelle Kwon

Enjoy a good sex life

42 First Step in the Food Chain

By John Austen Sea life that’s important for your health and the planet

By Dr. Henry Chang

62 Collagen Helps to Build a Younger Body

82 Recipe for Health

Go Green Salad

of hydration

66 Inside Pain: What to Do When it Hurts By Michelle Kwon Alternatives to painkilling pills

84 Nature’s Medicine Cabinet

By Joel Thuna

The do-it-all herbal oil

86 Magnetism: What It Can Do for You

69 Love and Herpes By Bruce Schennum problem

Winning with

83 Why Do We Need Water? By Sophia Stewart The importance

64 Nature’s Stress Soother

By François Moncourt Friendly Flora

By Tracy Holly

By Alain Prud’homme Your body’s top construction material

By Mark Schneider The herb holy basil

40 What Keeps Couples Together?

By Franco Cavaleri Kibble and canned food isn’t enough

77 Germ Warfare

38 True Wealth of Health By Cory Holly management

71 Are You Nourishing Your Pet?

60 Computer Vision Syndrome

36 Cancer: A Treatable Disease

By Sophia Stewart BioScience Research Institute opens

74 The Unsung Vitamin By Michelle Kwon Vitamin K

Foods that heal

By Shuchi Kalra Get eyestrain, headaches, and dry eyes?

By Michelle Kwon Help your immune system heal cancer

54 Pain-Free Aging

34 Listen to Your Gut: Healthy Digestion By John Austen detox organs

70 Hospital Takes Highest Healing Approach

An age-old

By Dr. Dean Bonlie balance

Get back in

44 How Many Vitamins Do You Need? By AJ Keillor

An easy three step plan

46 What is Carvacrol?

By Joel Thuna oregano

The potent protector in

48 Importance of Insulin for Bodybuilders By Joanne Carr Increase your muscle with certain nutrients

50 Falling Strands: Hair Loss Help

By John Austen All is not lost when you begin to lose your hair

79 At Home with Nature By David Suzuki back into economics

Putting the “eco”

81 Seeds of Change: Interview with Percy Schmeiser

By Carol Crenna The famous farmer who fought back

VISTA M A G A Z I N E

Editor’s Healthlines Carol Crenna, rhn

board o f adviso r s

Dr. Michael Colgan, PhD, CCN

Dr. Gloria Gilbère

Dr. Christian uenette, DC G

Cory Holly, DN

Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky, BSc, MA, ND

Tomás Nimmo

Dr. Terry Willard, ClH, PhD

Dr. Zoltan Rona, MD

The quest for rest “Sleep is the new sex,” says Arthur Spielman, co-author of The Insomnia Answer. “People want it, need it and can’t get enough.” Sleep disorders are increasing as we deprive our bodies of needed rest or simply can’t get ourselves to wind down. Boast about getting by with less? Before the light bulb was invented, the average adult slept 10 hours per night. Statistics Canada’s survey shows that one third of Canadians have significant sleep loss (six and a half hours or less a night), with many experiencing problems that include trouble falling asleep, waking up repeatedly, and waking too early and not being able to fall back asleep. Women lose more sleep than men. This cranky, worn-out state leaves you vulnerable to anxiety, depression, a weakened immune system (even after only one night of diminished sleep), decreased sex drive, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It also dramatically speeds aging because your body does much of its repair work from stress and injury as you sleep. Studies show that sleep loss contributes to obesity, not only because cravings for sweets increase but because it substantially disrupts hormones that regulate hunger, satiety and fat storage…and it leaves you too tired to exercise. Have trouble nodding off? Sleeping pills, even herbal ones, may be a quick fix but they don’t resolve the underlying issue–whether it’s stress, a hormonal or physical disorder or a simple lifestyle factor–and make it harder to find out what’s really going on. Much of insomnia is caused by annoyances and behaviours that can be fixed. Develop your sleep smarts to help alleviate the cause: use the bedroom only for sleep and sex, with no computer or TV as even the electromagnetic energy emitted has been said to cause restlessness. Relax just before bedtime; don’t pay bills, prepare for work or watch a crime movie. You might think that car chases don’t affect you, but they put your body instinctively into fight or flight mode. Take a hot bath before bed and keep your room cool with fresh air to provoke sleepiness. Make sure your feet are warm, which also stimulates sleep. Don’t drink caffeinated beverages after 3 p.m.; if you feel low energy in the afternoons it is usually caused by dehydration, so drink water to alleviate it. Studies show that although drinking wine may put you to sleep initially, it also makes you wake up during the night when your body is processing its toxins. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can work miracles, but they take practise, so start now, not in the middle of the night. Don’t eat a meal after 8:00 p.m., because your body will be too busy digesting food to relax. Taking calcium/magnesium supplements in the evening can also help you to calm down. Do you have allergies? A hypoallergenic mattress pad and pillow might do the trick. If you’re sensitive to noise at night, try a white noise machine, which provides continuous soothing sounds of crashing waves or a rain shower (Conair makes one). According to Sleeptracks.com, research shows that the capacity to fall asleep and then stay in a deep sleep is a skill that can be learned. This Quebec company’s sleeping CDs are said to retrain your brain waves to quickly fall into a deep, natural sleeping state and maintain it throughout the night using a special rhythmic sound. Rhythm has been used for centuries to induce trances and sleep. Two of the most common sleep disorders in women are snoring and restless-leg syndrome. Snoring is often caused by food or environmental allergies. Restless legs feel like an unpleasant crawly sensation in the legs that creates a need to move them, and is associated with depleted iron; menstruation or a vegetarian diet can lead to a deficiency. If you exercise a lot, tense muscles might also be a culprit. Stretch thoroughly before bed. During menopause, hot flashes and night sweats may ruin sleep — use a fan, don’t wear pajamas and keep cold drinking water close by. Natural hormone therapy may also help. If you long for the Sandman, you may be lacking tryptophan, the amino acid linked to feeling sleepy after a holiday turkey meal, and a building block for stress management and sleep. It increases serotonin and melatonin, the hormones your brain releases to help put you to sleep. Most people aren’t getting enough because the body doesn’t produce it, so it must come from foods like oats, fish, poultry, cheese, bananas, pumpkin and sesame seeds. Sleep is as important to your health as eating properly and exercising. Be diligent and proactive to get a full night’s zzzzs – the happy ending we all dream about. Carol Crenna will be teaching “Why Weight?” – a personalized weight loss course – through Vancouver School Board Continuing Education from September 27 to November 8 (six Saturdays). Visit www.continuinged.ca for more information.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Hot and Bothered?

Get Help for Skin Inflammation By Susan McLoughlin

photo: Lise Gange

hronic inflammation, with its myriad symptoms and associated diseases – including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic skin conditions such as adult acne and rosacea – has become exponentially more common in recent years, but scientists do not yet know the reasons why. Inflammation impacts all of the major systems of your body and while many of these symptoms can be invisible, the same cannot be said for the effect of chronic inflammation on the skin! In fact, some of the inflammatory skin conditions that are plaguing Western society may be the “canary in the coal mine,” or the sole visible evidence of inflammation’s attack on the internal systems of the body. Impaired liver function, hormonal imbalance and immune disorders are all known contributors to inflammatory skin conditions, and all are also symptoms of chronic inflammation. Your largest organ, your skin, is an essential component of the body’s life support system. It protects, regulates, purifies and even nourishes. In fact, with its own remarkable form of pho-

tosynthesis, your skin magically converts sunbeams into indispensable vitamin D. A highly efficient, self-regulating and self-sustaining system, the skin itself, like all of your organs, receives its nourishment through a network of blood vessels that carry life-giving oxygen and nutrients to all the cells of the body. The same nutrients that sustain and nourish your internal systems also sustain and nourish the skin. “Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body’s internal needs, including its nutritional needs,” says Georgiana Donadio, PhD, DC, MSc, founder and director of the National Institute of Whole Health in Boston. If you feed your skin from the inside out, experts such as Donadio and others say you can’t help but benefit. A lesser known fruit that is showing impressive results in inside out skincare is seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L). Seabuckthorn is one of the most powerful natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herbs known. Its nutrient density and potential for disease impact are second to none. While the nourishing and healing qualities of seabuckthorn are relatively new to the West, they have been well-known in the East for hundreds of years. The earliest mention of seabuckthorn was in the Tibetan medical classic “’rGyud Bzi” in the eighth century. Word has it that Genghis Khan fed the leaves and berries to his legendary horses during his dramatic conquest of Asia. In fact, a component of seabuckthorn’s botanical name, Hippophae means “bright shining horse.” The fruit, seed and leaves contain an impressive array of antioxidants. The concentration of vitamin C in the berries reaches 2500 milligrams to 100 grams, depending on the species. The berries are also a rich source of vitamin E, carotenoids, flavonoids, sterols including beta sitosterols, stanols, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and polar lipids.

folic acid, as well as significant amounts of calcium, magnesium and potassium. The dried leaves also provide a source of protein. Seabuckthorn tea both as a beverage and as an extract in skin care products is demonstrating effectiveness in the treatment of acne.

Seabuckthorn leaves

Susan McLoughlin pioneered the use of seabuckthorn in Canada. Educated at UBC, she is engaged in manufacturing and marketing of nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Susan McLoughlin can be reached at smcl@shaw.ca or (250) 767-6100.

The leaves are a rich source of important antioxidants including beta carotene, vitamin E, flavonoids, catechins, elagic acid, ferulic acid and

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Seabuckthorn berry oil

The rich red oil from the flesh of the berry is predominantly monounsaturated, which in practical terms means it hardens at cooler temperatures. The most abundant vitamin in the berry oil is carotenoids – 18 have been identified. Current studies on carotenoids demonstrate measurable impact on age-related macular (eye) degeneration, prostate cancer, cognitive performance and photo protection. The berry oil is a valuable source of tocopherols, tocotrienols and plant sterols, has demonstrated effectiveness in regenerating damaged skin and mucous membranes and is a prized ingredient in skin care.

Seabuckthorn seed oil

High levels of omega 3 (alpha linolenic) and omega-6 (linoleic) in a perfect 1:1 ratio are what characterize the oil from the seed of the seabuckthorn berry. It also has omega-9, vitamin K, vitamin B12, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phospholipids and over 17 phytosterols in a potent nutritional mix that has demonstrated effectiveness for cardiovascular and gastro-intestinal health. Its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties have proven effective in the treatment of skin problems. The nutrition that delivers strength and vitality to the body is the very same nutrition that brings a fresh and vibrant glow to the skin. With its abundance of nutrients and its natural synergies, seabuckthorn is a good source of this inside-out nutrition.

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Best Alter-nut-ive: Almonds By John Austen

ou may enjoy almonds in marzipan, trail mix and in slivers gracing the top of cakes or stir-fried green beans, but you may not know that these nuts are a powerhouse of nutrients that fight disease. Almonds have been enjoyed around the world for centuries, offering health benefits that include a role in the prevention and treatment of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and even asthma and bronchitis. They’re loaded with antioxidants, particularly selenium, which slows aging. The healthy monounsaturated fat found in almonds helps increase good cholesterol levels, possibly protecting against heart disease. The high amounts of magnesium in almonds –a small handful provides 25 percent of your daily magnesium needs–and the nut’s ability to reduce spikes in blood sugar may help protect against diabetes. The high level of vitamin E in almonds has been shown to lower the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer. Almonds are high in protein, with one ounce (28 grams) providing 12 percent of daily protein needs. They are higher in calcium than all other nuts, with one ounce of almonds (approximately 20 to 25) having as much calcium as a 1/4 cup of milk. Unblanched almonds are also higher in fibre than any other nut. Almonds are abundant in phosphorus, which is good for bones and teeth, and also contain potassium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and trace amounts of B vitamins thiamin and riboflavin. In addition, they can help prevent certain birth defects because of their high folic acid content. An added benefit is that although almonds, like all nuts, are high in healthy fat, they are very low in saturated fat. They are also a filling vegetarian source of protein, and studies show that dieters who snack on almonds tend to decrease their food intake

because they feel more satiated. Researchers found that almonds also appear to help block absorption of carbohydrates, and block their own fat from being absorbed. These mechanisms may help to explain why almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat, do not lead to weight gain when eaten and help to lower cholesterol. Almonds, along with dates, grapes and olives, were among the earliest cultivated foods, probably before 3,000 BC. Almonds and pistachios are the only nuts mentioned in the bible. Earliest varieties came from China, but were carried by explorers who used them for sustenance as they traveled to Greece, Turkey, Portugal and the Middle East. An early European tradition of

wrapping sugar-coated almonds in netting and presenting them to wedding guests symbolized fertility, happiness, good health and fortune, and is still offered as a wedding favour today. In addition to being eaten as snacks, almonds have also been used to make a nutritious drink since the middle ages. Almond milk made from ground nuts was a staple of medieval kitchens because it kept without refrigeration

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

much longer than cow’s milk. This liquid would be prepared fresh when needed or made in advance and stored. Because of its high fat content, it could be churned into butter, and because it was not an animal product, could be consumed during Lent. An early European use of almond milk was in the delicate chilled French custard called “blancmange,” and a British version of the 14th century, “blancmanger,” which included shredded chicken, sugar, rice and almond milk or ground almonds. Almond milk is easily made with one cup of ground almonds and two cups of boiling water, which is steeped for five minutes and then either blended or strained to yield two cups of almond milk. Almond butter from ground nuts is also a popular vegetarian source of protein, spread on a sandwich and topped with sliced bananas or apples. It also doubles as a great sauce thickener. Botanically, the sweet almond, prunus amygdalus dul‑ cis, is considered a stone fruit, closely related to the apricot and peach. Almonds grow on a small tree, and must be crosspollinated by honeybees. In the springtime, almond orchards in California–the largest producer of almonds in the world – are a spectacular sight, abloom with white blossoms that perfume the air with fragrance. Almonds retain their goodness longer than many other nuts when properly stored, and can be used for well over a year with no significant loss of quality. Like all nuts, however, almonds are subject to oxidation (oxygen in the air reacts with unsaturated fat, turning nuts rancid) so store almonds in a cool, dry place away from heat, including sunlight. Almonds can also be freezer stored. Whether they are eaten whole and raw, ground, slivered, blanched, roasted or strained in milk, these versatile nuts are a great alternative to peanuts as snacks, to dairy for cooking and drinking, and to animal sources of protein for vegetarians.

* 1 cup/8 fl. oz. USDA reduced fat milk, 2% milkfat, with added vitamin A vs. 1 cup/8 fl. oz. Almond Breeze® Original Flavor

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The Healing Power of a Great Night’s Sleep By Steven Hefferon

hat’s the most time-consuming thing you do, day in and day out, every day of your life? Eating? Sitting in traffic? Watching TV? Nope. It’s sleeping. You spend between six and 10 hours a night in bed–one-third of your life. When it comes to back pain, those are some of the most important hours in your day. Sleep helps your body heal, as it’s the only time that your muscles can completely rest and recover. There many studies linking sleep with healing. They show that human growth hormone and melatonin, which play a big role in tissue recovery and immunity, are produced during sleep. If you’re not getting good sleep–whether it’s due to pain, anxiety or stress–you’re not giving your muscles, especially your back muscles, time to rejuvenate themselves for the next day’s activities. Believe me, I know. In my struggles with all kinds of pain over the years, I’ve come to understand firsthand the importance of restful sleep. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned.

The best mattress

photo: Lise Gange

pain. You may even find yourself with limited movement. Also, because the hips are the heaviest part of the body, they sag into the mattress over time. That puts undue pressure on the ligaments, joints and muscles of the lower spine. This is why I recommend the added support under the fitted sheet. Think of it as similar to stretching the same muscles for six to eight hours straight, which obviously won’t feel good. It’s no wonder that you wake up sore. Find a way to support your body and you will minimize the irritation. I also encourage you to experiment to find your own comfortenhancing positions and/or techniques. Here are a few more tips:

Is firm better than soft? From a physiological standpoint, a more supportive mattress is better, regardless of what sleep position you prefer. Having said that, the best mattress is the one that helps you to sleep well and wake up without added pain and stiffness. It’s really about personal preference. I have tried them all. I tried a memory foam mattress but it was too soft (but I gave it to my parents and they love it.) I now use a firm box spring and mattress, plus a towel under the sheets to give added support to my hips and pelvis. Towel tip: Put a towel or small blanket under your fitted sheet. Here’s what you do: fold the towel or blanket in half (and in half again if it’s thin). Place it under the fitted sheet so that it doesn’t move around during the night, directly under the small of your back, spreading it down toward your knees. This extra support helps prevent your pelvis from sagging into the mattress. It might only make a difference of a few millimetres, but that is a huge difference when it comes to preventing the added stress that comes with remaining in any sleeping position all night long.

* Don’t drink any fluids 60 minutes before bedtime, but do keep water at bedside (stiff neck and joints may be due to dehydration). This is so you don’t have to go to the bathroom and then have trouble falling back asleep.

The best sleep position

* Dress in warm bedclothes if you are cold and light clothes/no clothes if you are hot. I have taken this to the extreme and love the results. I wear wool socks, flannel pants, a sweatshirt and a knit hat in winter. It sounds strange, but if you can minimize the stress on the body while trying to keep warm, your body will be more relaxed. Healing is enhanced when the body is relaxed.

Similar to the mattress you choose, the position you sleep in is based on preference or physical limitations due to pain or restrictions after surgery. In back sleeping on your back is the most stable position for your spine and the least irritating to your muscles. Side sleeping is the next best. Stomach sleep is the least desirable if your back is not adequately supported. I personally like a modified side-lying position, using a full length body pillow. I sleep “hugging” the pillow with my arms and legs, which is really comfortable and takes pressure off my lower back. You should try it. Body pillows can be found at most bedding stores. They are not expensive and may give you an alternative sleeping position that will make a big difference in your comfort level, and improve the quality and duration of sleep.

Why are you sore when you wake up?

Typically, those with back pain don’t roll over as much as those without

* Don’t do physical activity for at least 45 minutes before bed. Exercising will rev your body up, making it hard to calm yourself and fall into a restful sleep. * Take 10 deep breaths as you tell yourself that you are going to sleep. When you awake you will be feeling great and ready for the new day. * As you lay in bed ready to go to sleep, reflect on your day. Express gratitude and give thanks for all that you have. It helps you look forward to waking up with renewed enthusiasm and the belief that tomorrow will bring you one day closer to your goals.

* Do some reading. In my work on back pain, I scour the latest resources and reference guides. The best book I have ever read on sleep is called Power Sleep: the Revolutionary Program that Prepares Your Mind for Peak Performance, by Dr. James B. Mass. It’s available on Amazon.com for about $10. If you enjoyed this article, and would like more information in alternative back pain treatments, sign up for The Healthy Back Institute’s Back Pain Guide. Visit www.losethebackpain.com for free articles, videos and open forums. Steven Hefferon, CMT, PTA, is a back pain specialist.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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The Dish on Fat By Brendan Brazier

t wasn’t long ago when the medical community advocated avoiding all fat, even in the form of nuts or avocados. We have made great progress in drawing clearer lines between raw plant-based sources that are good for you and those that are harmful such as cooked, animalbased and processed saturated and trans fats.

mobility and vitality. Contributing to our cells’ ability to receive nutrition and eliminate waste, EFAs help to keep the cellular regeneration process moving. Our body’s ability to fight infection and reduce inflammation is in part dependent on having an adequate supply of EFAs. Healthy and efficient brain development in children has been linked to a diet rich in EFAs. A balance of omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs is also vital for skin health. Dry skin is commonly treated topically with a moisturizer, leaving the cause of the problem unaddressed. A diet with adequate EFAs will keep skin looking and feeling supple. The average diet contains an excess of omega-6 by 10 to 25 times. This imbalance, among other factors, may contribute to stroke, heart attack, chronic inflammation, cognitive impairment and autoimmune diseases. Excellent sources of omega-3 to help restore the natural balance are flaxseed, hemp oil and walnuts.

Bad fat

A deficiency of healthy fat is prevalent with the majority of people consuming too many saturated fats in meat and dairy and processed polyunsaturated fats or hydrogenated trans-fat from cooking oil and margarine. Too much of these and not enough good fats contribute to stroke, heart attack, chronic inflammation, cognitive impairment, allergies, autoimmune diseases and ultimately, premature death. Many oils that we think are doing our bodies good are, in fact, causing further damage. The processing of oil can be the difference between good and bad. Some extraction methods for cheaper oils involve high heat, which can actually cause the oil to convert to trans fat. Other extraction methods use chemical solvents to separate the oil, usually done with lowgrade oils.

Good fat

The benefits of consuming fat in the right forms and proper proportions impact an endless number of areas of the body and mind. It can strengthen the immune system, enhance brain and nervous system function such as mood, intelligence and behaviour, greatly reduce cardiovascular disease, increase energy and performance, grow healthy skin, hair and nails, regulate body weight and improve organ and gland function.

GLA

Essential fats

Omega-3 and omega-6 are the two essential fatty acids (EFAs). They are essential because the body cannot produce them, so they must be ingested by eating foods rich in EFAs. EFAs support the cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems, and play an integral role in cell health. Repair of the cellular membrane is vital for keeping the body biologically young and enabling it to retain

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Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) – is an omega-6 EFA with potent anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe skin, promote healing and regulate water loss. GLA’s anti-inflammatory properties expand blood vessels, enabling better blood flow. It is known as an immune booster, cancer fighter, cholesterol reducer, arthritis reliever and skin enhancer. Evening primrose, borage and hemp seed oils are the best sources of GLA.

MTCs

Healthy yet under-rated fats are medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, found in large amounts in coconut oil. They are unique in that they’re

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“I use hemp oil as the base for salad dressings, sauces, shakes and many other recipes that do not require cooking at high heat because hemp offers exceptional flavour and nutrition.”

saturated fat, yet have many health benefits. Unlike other fat, MCTs are utilized in the liver and are easier on the pancreas, liver and digestive system. Within moments of MCTs being consumed, they are converted by the liver to energy, which makes them an excellent source of energy during an intense workout. Pure, raw coconut oil has been shown to promote heart health, a strong immune system, a healthy metabolism, weight loss and youthful skin.

Phytonutrients

Raw, unprocessed plant-based oils also carry hundreds of phytonutrients such as chlorophyll, phytosterols, carotenoids, lignans (phytoestrogens), tocopherols, tocotrienols and flavonoids (polyphenols). Flax oil, for instance, when extracted properly, can retain high levels of cancer fighting lignans while hemp oil is rich in many phytonutients, and has been receiving a lot of attention for its high levels of immune boosting, alkalinizing and cleansing chlorophyll.

Antioxidants

Chlorophyll found in hemp oil has antioxidant-like properties while berry seed oils are packed with antioxidants in a highly concentrated form. Raspberry, cranberry and pomegranate seed oils are among the best but can be hard to find in stores and are expensive.

What to look for

A good fat should generally come from an organically grown plant with minimal processing to preserve its “raw,” nutrient-rich state. Look for oils that are cold-pressed and have not undergone a distillation or purification process. Avoid those that have been exposed to heat and light. I use hemp oil as the base for salad dressings, sauces, shakes and many other recipes that do not require cooking at high heat because hemp offers exceptional flavour and nutrition. Using only hemp oil as your primary oil source is a good way to go; however, a blend of about hemp, flaxseed and pumpkin seed oil is an optimal balance of essential fatty acids.

Brendan Brazier is a professional Ironman triathlete, two-time Canadian 50 km Ultra Marathon Champion and bestselling author of The Thrive Diet (Penguin, 2007), which includes 100 balanced, plant-based, whole food recipes. For more information, visit www.thrivediet.com or www.brendanbrazier.com.

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What’s in Your Medicine Cabinet? By AJ Keillor

our little one sneezes and sniffles from the other room. You reach for your favourite natural cold-fighting product and walk towards them. Upon seeing you, your child begins to look concerned, making faces of disgust and squirming away from you. Let’s face it; some natural cold remedies are not easy to administer to your kids. Yet, you want to offer your children a safe and effective product to help their bodies fight off the common cold this winter. In addition, concerns have been raised about over-the-counter pharmaceuticals in young children, which make your choices limited. What’s in your cold-remedy medicine cabinet this fall?

Natural cold remedies

You may have many natural products in your medicine cabinet. Some are used to boost the immune system, such as astragalus, echinacea, oil of oregano, vitamin C and probiotics. Each of these remedies is known to support the immune system in its battle against cold and other common viruses, but these are not the only ones.

The common cold

The common cold is a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, which includes the lungs, throat and sinuses. Your body responds to an invading virus by producing mucous, in an attempt to wash away the virus and prevent it from gaining access to your body’s cells. When mucous builds up, you’re left with a stuffy nose, cough and that heavy-headed sensation.

No magical pill

Since the common cold is caused by a virus and not bacteria, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Pharmaceutical companies have been able to create a lucrative $2.9 billion market for cough and cold products to help people feel better when they have the common cold. It is important to understand, however, that these pharmaceuticals do not rid your body of the infecting virus but simply mask the symptoms! Only your immune system can kill a cold virus and make you well.

Immune defence

There are three ways that your immune system can fight a cold virus. First, your body uses mucous to trap invading viruses that cilia (small hair-like structures that line your throat and nose) move out through your nose. Second, your body has immune cells that kill viruses attacking your body. Third, your body has specialized immune cells that can find and kill viruses already in your body’s cells.

Before pharmaceuticals

Throughout history there are many examples of upper respiratory tract viruses that have caused great suffering and illness. For example, tuberculosis (TB), also known as consumption, is a disease that can affect the

lungs. TB was a major problem before effective drugs were introduced in the 1950s. Before this time, a root from an African geranium plant, Pelargonium sidoides, was used as a remedy for consumption and other upper respiratory infections.

Geranium to the rescue

Over the past half century, over 20 clinical research studies have investigated the ability of Pelargonium sidoides, or South African geranium, to help the body fight viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. A large body of scientific evidence supports the use of Pelargonium sidoides as a safe and effective way to reduce the duration and severity of these infections, including sinusitis, tonsillitis and bronchitis. New research reported in the Journal of Family Practice (March 2008) has found that using Pelargonium sidoides at a dosage of 30 drops, three times daily is a safe and effective way to fight the common cold. The report, called the Cochrane Review, noted that the size of the study and the largely significant reduction in illness severity was greater than the effects of zinc, echinacea and vitamin C, which were given poor ratings for effectiveness. Physicians are starting to take note of the effectiveness of Pelargonium sidoides in medical journals and in their practices. This is in part due to strong safety data suggesting that the extract can be used by all ages. In addition, thanks to advancements in technology, Pelargonium sidoides is now available in conventional, easy to swallow formats that are not going to make your child squirm and make faces.

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In and Out of Pain Therapy That Helps W

e all ache now and then – a sore muscle, a stiff joint, or a pulled ligament. In fact muscle and joint pain are an everyday reality for millions of Canadians. In the early 90s, researchers hypothesized that one in six adults was in pain. Since boomers have aged a decade since then, those stats have obviously increased. That’s a great deal of pain to face. Fortunately, lifestyle changes including rest, a healthy diet, low impact exercise and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, physiotherapy and vibrational therapy can make a dramatic difference without drugs. Vibrational therapy may be the easiest, quickest and most comfortable of the therapies mentioned that can provide genuine relief. This therapy dates back to the 1960s when rhythmic neuromuscular stimulation (RNS) – the term used by physiologists to describe “cyclical vibrations” capable of improving the condition of the joints – was introduced and embraced by scientists. Vibration training was developed by Russian scientists to counteract muscle degeneration of the cosmonauts caused by living in zero gravity for long periods of time. Vibrational therapy increases blood circulation, and improves flexibility, mobility and muscle strength. During vibration training the tissues are warmed and increased blood circulation occurs, ensuring that the muscle becomes more flexible. If sore muscles are stretched at this time the higher oxygen level in your blood will increase flexibility, which will relieve tight muscles more quickly. Since more oxygen is in your blood, waste products are removed from the body more efficiently. The accumulation of substances that cause pain is inhibited and the removal of such substances is promoted. As a result, the pain barrier during stretching can be moved so that

By John Austen stretching can be endured more comfortably. Sore muscles are often caused by poor posture. Poor posture is linked to improper use of muscles: some are too weak to do their job,

to work overtime. This causes strain not only on muscles but on joints and ligaments. As a result of the muscle contractions required in response to the vibrational stimulation, muscle strength and tone increase with this therapy over time. However the vibration doesn’t cause fatigue or aggravate an injury like other exercise can, and actually repairs damaged tissue. What do Shaquille O’Neal and Julie Andrews have in common? They’ve both used vibrational therapy to relieve pain and improve muscle tone. Like others who have experienced the therapy, they stand on a metal base while holding on to supportive arms on a machine which vibrates 30 to 50 times per second. Muscles throughout the body are forced into action to maintain balance. What’s the catch? So far there doesn’t seem to be one. You step on, turn on and have a wobble. It’s said to be that easy. It only takes a few minutes several times a week to get relief and results. You can wear street clothes (or your pyjamas if you own a personal home version) and you don’t perspire. Vibrational therapy gets your whole body shaking with a host of other benefits, too. Over the past four decades, research has shown that it may assist in cellulite reduction, stimulate metabolism and lymph drainage, strengthen bone tissue, improve joint function and stability, reduce body fat, and offer rapid recovery after exercise for better performance in addition to pain relief. Don’t live with your photo: andrew johnson pain. Find out the cause instead of covering the symptoms with medication, consider what healthy lifestyle particularly in the back, shoulders and neck, changes you can adopt as your own and try therawhile other inappropriate ones are called upon pies that have been proven to work.

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The Stress Factor By Marva Ward

tress is a constant in our lives. It can be as overt as the loss of a job or the death of a loved one, or it can be veiled and ambiguous–a consequence of the air we breathe, the water that we drink, and the food that we eat. Just getting back into the routine of our fall schedules can put many of us on edge for several weeks. We actually do need some degree of stress. It is that surge of adrenaline that can keep us alive in life or death situations and even propel us to become better people. But if we are perpetually in this state, the body starts to break down. Stressful situations that are resolved quickly do not have long lasting health consequences–it is the chronic, long term stress that affects us on a cellular level. Both the allopathic (medical) and holistic (complementary) health communities agree that chronic stress is where disease starts and it is a growing problem for North Americans. So what can we do to protect ourselves from the destructive nature of stress? Daily exercise is imperative to maintain a healthy mind and body at any age, and is extremely successful in combating the trauma of stress. As we grow older, some of our best exercise options in battling stress are Pilates and yoga. Yoga not only teaches us to release tension from our bodies, but also shows us how to calm, control and shift our thought processes–a key component in managing stress. Although exercise is vital, we all know that our health begins and ends with the food we eat. Choosing a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables is essential. They are filled with the antioxidants that are critical to fight the free radical damage that stress causes in our bodies. Although we do get our nutrition from the food that we eat, when we are under constant stress, numerous chemical factors come into play that inhibit the body’s ability to absorb enough nutrients from foods and to make and use these nutrients properly. Consequently, supplementation may be important during stressful times.

Vitamin B

The vitamin B family is primarily comprised of the following nutrients: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, folic acid and biotin. They work synergistically in the body and because of their interdepen-

dence, they should be taken as a complex rather than taking them individually. B vitamins are involved in many of the body’s most basic and most complex biological and chemical functions. They are critical components in the production and release of energy, and also play a significant role in the function of the central nervous system, which in turn is in constant communication with the endocrine system. The endocrine system includes eight organs and two of them, the adrenal glands, are the centre of attention when it comes to stress. Under

GABA

GABA was discovered in the brains of mammals in the 1950s. It functions as one of the most common inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. It occupies nerve receptor sites for stress, and can actually stop stress messages from getting to the brain. This is particularly true when taken with vitamin B3 and inositol, which is commonly associated with B vitamins and a vital nutrient for many processes. By reducing over-stimulation in the brain, GABA may help to promote relaxation and ease nervous tension. In this state, the adrenal glands are working normally and excess cortisol and adrenalin is not an issue. For optimum results GABA should be taken on an empty stomach.

Relora

Relora blends two plant extracts; Magno‑ lia officinalis and Phellodenron amurense. Studies show it to be a safe, effective, non-sedating supplement that promotes relaxation and a feeling of well-being. Relora may also be particularly effective in controlling stress related eating issues because of its calming effect. In a number of clinical trials it has been shown to alleviate symptoms of nervous tension, irritability, ability to concentrate and occasional sleeplessness. It does this by binding to important receptors associated with anxiety located in the central nervous system. Relora is often found in cortisol support formulas. As an herbal blend, should not be taken with food to be most effective. We all know that stress is a natural part of living, and when it can’t be managed effectively it becomes chronic. We also know that there are many ways to minimize the damage. Start with a B complex vitamin and then stack your choicphoto: Lise Gange es. Perhaps add to that the amino acid, GABA, an herbal support formula such as Relora, and a daily dose of vitamin C. They perceived threat, these glands release a series will all play their part in keeping you healthy no of hormones, the most abundant of which are matter what life throws at you. adrenaline and cortisol. It is the over-production of cortisol that leads to numerous health issues. There are many supplements that support the adrenal glands and help control the release of Marva Ward is in her 5th year in the natural health these hormones. One of them is the amino acid industry. She graduated from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition and is a certified nutritional practitioner. called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA).

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Curcumin: The Cancer Fighter By Dr. Neil McKinney

he new super-spice to watch for is curcumin, which is derived from the curry spice turmeric (Curcuma longa). Curcumin is often used for Indian cuisine and gives turmeric its dark yellow colour. Although delightful as flavouring for food, it is even more prized as an anti-inflammatory medicine. Curcumin has also recently been shown to reduce the risk of breast, skin and colon cancer. Studies show that the spice suppresses the formation of new blood vessels that nourish cancerous tumours, therefore slowing the metastasis, or spread, of cancer cells. Other studies found that curcumin reduces oxidative stress and suppresses inflammation in the body. Clinicians also find it effective in managing inflammation; fluid retention; injury and pain in conditions such as arthritis; rheumatoid diseases; physical trauma; and sports injuries. The active ingredient in this spice is called diferuloylmethane. Inflammation is a repair process associated with pain and swelling in acute trauma or a sports injury. Unfortunately it can become chronic and cause tissue damage resulting in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Managing inflammation requires control of pro-inflammatory chemicals released by the body that include histamine, fibrin, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFa), arachidonic acid (AA), prostaglandins (PGE) , cycloxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX). Curcumin decreases interleukins (signalling molecules that are important in our immune system), stimulates the immune system, activates phagocytosis (when immune system cells eat invading cells) and stops inflammation from reaching pathways to travel to other areas. This is an anti-inflammatory medicine that really does it all. Curcumin is a powerful COX-2 inhibitor. This means that it stops the inflammatory en-

zyme that causes pain, and is the same enzyme that is targeted by pharmaceutical mediations called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to stop inflammation. This does not mean that it increases risk of heart attack and stroke, unlike the side effects associated with several anti-inflammatory drugs like Vioxx that have been pulled off of the market. The synthetic drugs also strongly stop the production of a fat molecule called prostacyclin PGI-2, and interact with it to trigger clots, heart attacks, stroke and thrombo-embolic disease (obstructed blood vessels). In contrast, curcumin slightly increases prostacyclin PGI-2, which actually reduces the risk of clots. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin offers powerful support for detoxification of the body. Highly chemoprotective, curcumin increases proteins which protect cells from stress and also reverses liver damage from aflatoxins–naturally occurring toxins created from moulds. Curcumin also helps to prevent cancer, and inhibits its growth and progression. Even simple dietary intake of turmeric reduces cancer risk. It blocks tumour growth instigated by chemical carcinogens such as mutagens in tobacco smoke. Curcumin also suppresses cancer by maintaining DNA methylation, which controls access to genes that may be harmful. This stops several genes that support tumour survival and inhibits DNA damage that can cause chronic diseases. Inflammation is involved in the growth of cancers, often called “the wound that will not heal.” The inflammatory COX-2 and its “product” called PGE-2 contribute to tumours by increasing the number of cells that form, stopping apoptosis (the natural death of cells), increasing angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels to increase blood supply to tumours), increasing invasiveness and spread of the cancer, promoting an increase in estrogen, and suppressing the immune system. Tumour derived PGE-2 produces a powerful immune system suppressor called cytokine IL-10, which decreases the effectiveness of the body’s disease fighting cells called lymphocytes and macrophages. PGE-2 also simultaneously stops the production of IL2, a cellular communication protein needed to dampen inflammation. PGE-2 also stops our

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most powerful disease fighters called natural killer cells and lymphokine-activated killer cells. Curcumin also significantly reduces the number and volume of tumours by several different important mechanisms. A current hot topic in oncology is the recruitment of bone-marrow derived stem cells to manage inflammation in and around tumours. These highly mobile and pluripotent cells (meaning that they can have more than one potential outcome) may give the most malignant properties to the tumour, making them invade other areas and spread. They are also capable of prolonged dormancy and are therefore resistant to chemotherapy and radiation. Controlling inflammation must be a core part of any cancer protocol. Curcumin is useful in radiation therapy, improving safety and efficacy. I do not recommend giving curcumin with chemotherapy, although there is some evidence that it may be useful. However, it is safe and most desirable to use it after chemotherapy, for detoxification and tumour suppression. Unfortunately, despite all of the good that this antioxidant and phytochemical can do, its efficacy has been hampered by poor absorption in the gut. Several substances are known to improve its digestion and use within the body including bromelain from pineapple and bioperine/piperine from black pepper. A novel approach to increasing absorption has been developed using a proprietary ratio of volatile turmeric oil (a concentrated essential oil) which boasts more than an eight-fold improvement in absorption in humans. The only contraindication, or circumstance that it might not be advisable to use with, is in cases of biliary tract obstruction (blockage of a bile duct in the liver) because it encourages the discharge of bile from the system. Curcumin can, in rare cases, trigger thrombocytopenia or low platelet count. Curcumin should only be taken with blood-thinning medicines under professional guidance. If gastrointestinal upset such as bloating or diarrhea occurs, discontinue the supplement and consult your health practitioner. Dr. Neil McKinney, BSc, ND, is a naturopathic doctor. For more information visit www.drneilmckinney.ca.

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Good Catch! Fish Oil and Cholesterol By Jolie Martin Root

hen Bruce Springsteen sings, “Everybody’s got a hungry heart,” you know he’s not referring to food, but everybody does have a heart hungry for nutrients that will keep it healthy for a lifetime. Fish and fish oil, as you have probably heard, are components of a healthy lifestyle regime that can halt and even reverse certain forms of heart disease. Decoding cholesterol. There is a lot of misinformation in the media about what cholesterol actually is and what its role is in heart disease and within the body. Cholesterol isn’t bad — in fact, you would die without it. Although much maligned, cholesterol is a vital building block, a waxy substance in cells and the bloodstream that is used to create hormones and membranes. When cholesterol becomes a problem, however, is when too much cholesterol collects in the bloodstream. There is also much hype about what to take to manage cholesterol levels. For example, fish oils do play a vital role in heart health, but they don’t reduce cholesterol levels. The truth is that fish oils sometimes slightly increase the levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, thought to be the “bad” form. Does that mean that fish is bad for your heart? Absolutely not. Fish oils are so well-known for their support of cardiovascular health that they are recommended by experts for anyone with known heart disease, and they are especially recommended for everyone with elevated triglycerides, a type of circulating blood fats. If you’ve recently survived a heart attack, had cardiac surgery or have a family history of heart disease, eating fish and taking fish oil, along with eating a colourful range of fresh, whole fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains, will help heal and protect your heart. Omega-3–rich fish such as trout, herring, sardines, tuna and wild salmon are good choices to eat. The American Heart Association suggests taking 1,000 to 4,000 milligrams of fish oil daily if you are at risk for heart problems because it reduces the risk of heart attack and heart disease. Size matters. Medical research shows that cholesterol is a complex issue, and the total number of your LDL-HDL ratio is not the whole story. Fish oils may cause a slight increase in LDL, but they also change the size of the LDL particle so that it is less dangerous to the blood vessels and as a result, less likely to cause cardiovascular problems. The smaller and denser the LDL molecule, the more dangerous it is. Measuring LDL particle size is a new generation of cholesterol testing that can be done as part of your regular medical check-up. This is important because patients with small, dense LDL have four times the risk of developing heart disease. If you learn that you have higher than ideal levels of small dense LDL, take preventative steps that include consuming fish and fish oil. Fish oil actually increases cholesterol particle size, thereby reducing your risk. The potential for harm from a slight elevation of LDL is strongly overcome by the benefit of increasing LDL particle size. A healthy change of heart. Taking fish oil also increases your levels

of HDL, the good cholesterol. High HDL drastically reduces your risk of heart disease. HDL exists in a natural balance with triglycerides, which are stored fats used as an energy source. As HDL levels increase, such as when a person takes fish oils, triglyceride levels generally drop. Triglyceride levels rise easily, especially after meals. Increased levels are almost always a sign of excessive carbohydrate and sugar intake. Elevated triglycerides are another independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. High triglycerides raise the risk of heart attack or stroke, even if a person’s cholesterol levels are normal. Lifestyle factors that significantly aggravate elevated triglycerides and low HDL levels are obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyle. Thus, diet, weight control and exercise are the foundation to treat elevated triglyceride and low HDL levels. Research has shown that the omega-3s in fish oil can help stabilize heart muscle cells, reducing the risk of arrhythmias, which are lethally abnormal heart rhythms that can cause sudden death. It may also help keep blood pressure levels normal. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack and heart failure. In one study of more than 11,000 heart attack survivors, daily supplements equivalent to one fatty-fish meal reduced the risk of sudden cardiac death. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can also slow atherosclerosis, the development of harmful plaque on artery walls. If the plaque growth is slowed and the blood vessel walls are kept healthy, a heart attack is unlikely. However, rapidly growing plaques can break apart and become very dangerous. The immune system responds with inflammation, which causes blood clots photo: ranplett that can block circulation in the artery, potentially causing a heart attack or a stroke. Give your ticker a boost. Combine fish oil and exercise. Getting regular aerobic exercise and taking fish oil may be more effective at cutting cardiovascular disease risk than either alone, according to a 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutri‑ tion. Take fish oil daily and add an hour of rigorous exercise four to five times a week for maximum cardiovascular benefit. Do it even if you’re not overweight, since a sedentary body is deadly for all vascular systems, and cholesterol and tryglyceride levels can be abnormally high even in slim physiques. Although men are assumed to be at greater risk for high cholesterol early in life, from age 45 on, women are more likely than men to have high levels. At any age, take preventative steps and feed your hungry heart with fish. References available from VISTA.

Jolie Martin Root, N.C., is a licensed practical nurse, a licensed nutritionist and a medical journalist in private practice in Denver, Colorado. She counsels and educates about the role of nutrition in integrative medicine. She has been interviewed on dozens of television and radio programmes and is one of the natural product industry’s most vibrant public speakers.

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You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet: Randy Bachman By Carol Crenna

ormer lead guitarist for the Guess Who and founder of BachmanTurner Overdrive, Randy Bachman has become a legendary rock and roll figure and a Canadian music icon. He has earned over 120 gold and platinum album and single awards worldwide for performing and producing. His songwriting has garnered the number one spot on radio play lists in 20 countries, with over 40 million records sold. VISTA speaks with Randy about music and his other passions which include the environment, health and art. VISTA: In your mid 60s you are still in the spotlight–recently interviewed by David Letterman on The Late Show and currently doing a US-Canada tour. Where do you get your energy from? Randy: I feel very fortunate to have discovered music as a child; from the age of five, and every day after that, and for every tomorrow, I will love what I do. That being said, my body maintenance schedule now includes workouts, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, vitamins and supplements. That and trying to eat right and sleep well keep me feeling good. VISTA: What other creative interests do you have? Randy: I do rubbings or impressions of manhole covers all over the world. This is to honour art that has been overlooked by most people. Look down at the sidewalks when you’re out walking and you’ll see these cool, very strong images of bronze or iron. I capture them on fabric with black crayon. I’ve recently come to an arrangement with 1921 Jeans in Winnipeg which is going to put my impressions on a line of T-shirts. These will be made in Canada out of hemp and bamboo fibre featuring my “captured art.” They will be in stores in spring 2009. VISTA: Your bio says, “Due to health concerns and desiring a change in lifestyle, Randy left the Guess Who at the height of their success.” What health concerns did you have at such an early age? Randy: I had gall bladder attacks every night on the road and couldn’t get treated by any emergency hospitals. I had to quit to go home to see my family doctor and to the local hospital for tests. The pain from the attacks every night was unbelievable. VISTA: How did you change your lifestyle? Randy: I was in New York City when 9/11 happened. We thought it was the end of the world. We were trapped in a tour bus there and couldn’t get back home to Canada. I ate myself into oblivion. Then, we realized it wasn’t the end of the world but I had become super huge and totally out of shape. I saw Brian Wilson’s daughter, Carnie, on TV saying she’d had a

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www.vistamagonline.com gastric bypass operation. I emailed her and she sent me to her doctor. Dr. Alan Whitgrove at Alvaredo Center, San Diego helped me through this procedure that radically changed and saved my life. I also became acquainted with Sam Graci, who formulated and started the Greens + line of health products and has written many great books. I consulted with him and he helped me a lot. For eight years now I have kept to a regular regime: I work out first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and then I have a drink of Transform+ with added liquid glucosamine-chondroitin-MSM and other supplements. An hour after that, I eat organic blueberries, strawberries or raspberries on cottage cheese. VISTA: Is your family very health conscious now? Randy: Yes. My wife eats very healthfully, my daughter is vegan, and I do my best. Health is everything in life because it makes everything else possible. My wife, Denise has a huge organic garden which produces most of the food we eat. In the fall she preserves, freezes, cans, and freeze-dries all fruits and vegetables and we eat healthily all year long. VISTA: How did having children change you? Randy: I don’t think anyone can truly “grow up” until they have a child. That’s when you lose the child you are and replace it with another child that you care about. It makes you think of someone besides yourself. The more children one has, the more this transformation takes place. VISTA: You used to play the violin? How old were you when you started to sing? Randy: I started violin at age five and quit at 14 when I switched to guitar. I became a singer on stage quite by accident when some songs I’d written and recorded became hits. I then had to sing them on stage and voila!–I became a “singer,” but totally untrained. However, it transformed my personality because in between songs I then had to talk to the audience and voila!–I became an emcee. Now I do a radio show. Who would have guessed? VISTA: Growing up on the prairies, you liked country music. Why haven’t you released country songs? Randy: After The Guess Who, my band Brave Belt did release two albums of country rock in the vein of Poco or Buffalo Springfield with pedal steel, violin, accordion and harmonies. We suffered financially. Wrong music, wrong place, wrong time. But with the same personnel and a name change, two years later as Bachman-Turner Overdrive we had a number one album, and the single “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet” was number one in 21 countries. Suddenly BTO had outdone The Guess Who in record sales. VISTA: When did you become interested in the environment? Randy: When you travel the world as I have done, it becomes easier to see the pollution, the destruction, and desecration in the world that big business and poor government has done to us. When you see it happening in your own neighbourhood it makes you angry and you have to do something. Together we can make a change – one act at a time. We need stricter laws and harsher penalties and fines on the big polluting corporations who are killing us by poisoning the air, water and soil. VISTA: Why do you live on Salt Spring Island? Is the commute difficult? Randy: We came to Salt Spring Island to go camping one summer. We all loved it so much that we kept coming back. The move there was slow and steady but very natural. The commute is worth it although I feel the BC Ferry system could improve the schedules for passengers like me who

depend on making the right connections for business and airport travel. VISTA: Why did you choose to build your unique eco-friendly home from “rammed earth construction”? (Randy built a 6,000 sq. ft., $3 million home on Salt Spring Island, BC, requiring hundreds of artists and trades people, installing curved walls and staircases coloured with bands of crushed rock and shells. Rammed earth is an ancient method of building using wooden forms. Damp earth mixed with concrete is loaded into the forms and compacted. When the forms are removed, the wall is complete.) Randy: We wanted to build a house that was Earth-friendly, non-polluting, all natural and organic, and we hoped that it would be a model for others to follow. Our builder Meror Krayenhoff and designer Phillip Van Horn were futuristic thinkers with the same goals as my wife, Denise. Together they built an amazing house for us, and since then have built many more. Meror’s company Terra Firma Builders has many patents on the technologies he’s developed, which are now being launched throughout the world. It truly is amazing and the most sensible and conscientious way to build a house. Rammed earth isn’t the same as hay bale houses but they are both eco-friendly, fireproof, extremely well insulated with two- to three-foot thick walls and use very few trees in the construction. VISTA: How do you keep the passion alive for your work? Lots of people love their jobs but don’t do the same thing with as much zeal for over 40 years. Randy: There are so many aspects of music available. I bounce around from songwriting and producing to recording and performing. And there is always the challenge to get that next hit song. It never feels like a job; it’s a joy. The traveling gets tiresome at times, but you learn to get through it. VISTA: Your record label Guitarchives rescues archival guitar music. Why? Randy: Life is a summation of everything you do, and to have it documented in song and music is something to be cherished. Nobody else was doing it so I felt an obligation to be the caretaker of most of the early music of The Guess Who and my friend and mentor, Lenny Breau. VISTA: You’re a mentor for up-and-coming Canadian artists. Who’s good? Randy: Watch for Lindsay Ell from Calgary, Alberta. She just turned 19, plays great guitar, has a great voice, co-wrote her album with me and my wife, Denise McCann, and has the “it” factor. She has the potential to become a Sheryl Crow or Bonnie Raitt. I call her music “Americana” or “Canadiana.” We’re signing her to a major Nashville label. VISTA: What is the best part about doing your CBC Vinyl Tap radio show (which airs throughout North America on Sirius Satellite Radio)? Randy: The best part about Vinyl Tap is that I get to visit all of my old vinyl memories and share my personal stories about each song with the “tap heads.” Since I do the show with my wife, it’s a fun ride to take together every week. I plan the music and put it in sequence and then go into CBC studios with producer Tod Elvidge and Denise, who is responsible for research and mail. Tod chooses what to keep and cut so when we listen to the show on Saturdays we’re sometimes as surprised as the listeners what the final result turns out to be. VISTA: You toured recently with Burton Cummings performing your collective hits. What was that like — have things changed? Randy: It’s a joy to play with Burton Cummings, my old friend. He has one of the top 10 greatest rock voices alongside Elvis Presley, Robert Plant, Elton John, John Lennon, Stephen Tyler, and Little Richard. We got to cheat time every night and travel back decades together to play our old songs that have become soundtracks to most people’s lives – including our own.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Vitamin C:

Nutrient Workhorse By Dr. Serenity Aberdour

ot so long ago, vitamin C was thought to be little more than a preventative for scurvy, which is caused by a severe vitamin C deficiency. Over time, however, vitamin C has become increasingly recognized for the wide range of benefits that it can have on general health and disease prevention. Vitamin C is crucial in the maintenance and repair of collagen, the building block for our body tissues. Without adequate vitamin C, our tissues cannot form or heal effectively. This has implications for a variety of health concerns when you consider all of the tissue creation, maintenance and repair that our bodies undergo on a daily basis. Recent research is beginning to show just how many body systems may rely on vitamin C for health. Consider the following: Anti-aging: Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant. This function helps to protect various cells and tissues from damage by helping to neutralize free radicals before they can cause damage. Cardiovascular health: Vitamin C, in combination with vitamin E, has been shown to slow the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by 26 to 33 percent in men and women with high cholesterol levels. Vitamin C is used in the breakdown of cholesterol into bile acids so that excess cholesterol can be removed from the body. Peripheral arterial disease is associated with lower vitamin C levels, and 500 milligrams of vitamin C can reduce C-Reactive protein (CRP) by 24 percent in those exposed to cigarette smoke, including second hand smoke. CRP is a blood marker for inflammation, and elevated CRP levels are considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Eye health: A combination of zinc and antioxidants including vitamin C has been shown to help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration – the most common cause of permanent blindness in the developed world. One study has found that long-term intake (at least 10 years) of supplemental vitamin C may reduce the risk of developing cataracts by as much as 60 percent. Immune boosting: Vitamin C is concentrated in white blood cells, and helps to support the healthy function of these immune cells. Although there has been some controversy over the effect of vitamin C supplements in the prevention or treatment of cold and flu, evidence shows that they are in fact helpful in reducing the incidence and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken as a preventative measure. This appears to be particularly true in cases where the body is under considerable stress, where supplementation may help to reduce the risk by up to 50 percent. Preventing iron deficiency: Vitamin C, taken at the same time as iron, can significantly improve the absorption of iron by the body. This is especially helpful for women who have difficulty with chronic iron deficient anemia. Vitamin C comes in various forms including ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate and calcium ascorbate. For some people, high doses of regular ascorbic acid can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. In these cases, a buffered or non-acidic form of C such as calcium ascorbate is a better choice. How much should you take? This varies depending upon the purpose and desired effects, but Health Canada has set the recommended maximum daily intake of vitamin C at 2000 milligrams for adults. For doses above this level, consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that may want to consider vitamin C supplementation include:

photo: snapphoto

• The elderly, who may have difficulty chewing raw fruits and vegetables and may need to cook most of their foods (vitamin C is heat sensitive). • Babies that are not breastfed and are fed pasteurized milk products as a substitute for breast milk. Most baby formulas contain added vitamin C for this reason. • Diabetics who require more vitamin C because of their increased oxidation load and their tendency to lose more of this nutrient in the urine than non-diabetics. • People with infections of all kinds, both mild and serious, as they can have reduced levels of vitamin C. • Those who are experiencing severe stress. Your adrenal glands use a lot of vitamin C and when they are highly active during stress; your vitamin C needs increase in order to meet the metabolic demands that stress places on the body. Because our bodies are unable to make vitamin C, we must increase dietary intake as demands increase. • Competition-level athletes require more vitamin C because intense exercise is stressful on the body and also significantly increases the need for adequate antioxidant intake. • Those with injuries or undergoing surgery, since adequate vitamin C intake is essential to ensure proper collagen formation that is required in wound healing. If you thought you knew all there was to know about vitamin C, take another look; research is continuing to discover how many ways this nutrient helps to keep us healthy. Depending on your needs, a little extra vitamin C may go a long way in illness prevention for years to come. Dr Serenity Aberdour, ND, is a naturopathic physician in Vancouver. She has a general family practice focusing on natural and preventative medicine and is also involved in research and development of natural health products. www.serenityd.com

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Saving Face: Skin Care for Your 40s, 50s and 60s By Carol Crenna

ould it be possible that the best skin of your life is ahead of you? With each passing decade, you face fresh challenges in your quest for a youthful, vibrant complexion. But healthy lifestyle changes, natural beauty products and non-invasive treatments will prepare you for the years ahead, no matter what date is on your driver’s licence. “Beauty is but a flower, Which wrinkles will devour,” wrote Thomas Nashe in 1600. Nothing has changed, of course, and beauty is still closely linked to youthfulness. You may not be able to control certain factors of aging, but today we know that the sun and your habits – not your genes – are mostly to blame when your babyfresh face starts to fade. Focus on the changes that you can make to keep Father Time at bay. It may be as simple as fitting in an hour more of sleep each night, pushing yourself for an extra 15 minutes each workout, or drinking two more glasses of water per day. The worst culprits of crow’s feet: smoking, sunbathing, sloth-like behaviour, sleepless nights, swilling alcohol and stuffing away your stress with food. Here is a guide for healthy, beautiful skin through your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond:

Having foresight at 40

For some, the way your skin looks in the morning dictates, like the weather, what kind of day you’ll have. Take precautions now, while you’re acutely aware of changes in your skin’s tone and texture. You’re losing more collagen and elasticity, and your skin retains less moisture. It can be the decade of dehydrated skin as more dead skin cells linger, patches appear and your expression lines become permanent. Moisturizing from the inside is vital. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day and take essential fatty acid supplements – borage seed oil and evening primrose oil are especially good (dab a few drops on your face as moisturizer, too). Use a light moisturizer with as few chemical ingredients as possible and a serum containing antioxidants such as lycopene or green tea and peptides, which have been shown to strengthen collagen. Those beach vacations in your teens are now showing up on your face as signs of sun damage in the form of moles, age spots, discolouration and tiny crepe-y wrinkles. Most important: limit sun exposure and wear UV protection;

eat whole, fresh and where possible raw fruits and vegetables and lean protein at every meal; and supplement with antioxidants and a supergreen food powder for added glow. Consider more challenging workouts that get your heart pumping and perspiration flowing to clear ageinducing toxins. The spa should become your new friend; try moisturizing facials and firming treatments such as “non-surgical facelifts” that use a machine to effectively tone and lift facial skin and muscles, and soften fine lines.

Forgetting that you’re 50

By your fifth decade, those expensive “promises in a jar” begin stacking up as you consider how far you’ll go to slow the aging process. Botox? Restylane? Eyelid tuck? Persevere with a healthy inside-out approach instead. Loss of fullness increases loose skin and sagging; pigment changes continue; and collagen breakdown is noticeable. Thinning skin loses its protective barrier and becomes drier and more sensitive to the environment. Hormonal changes have dramatic effects; for example, estrogen keeps skin supple and hydrated and its absence causes loss of elasticity and colour, and contributes to sagging and dryness. Menopause also brings overproduction of oil, enlarged pores and facial hair growth due to testosterone. First, add more fun and passion into your life to rekindle your youthful zeal. Reduce stress, increase your sleep time and get regular moderate workouts with yoga, Pilates, swimming and walking which revitalize the face and body. Get regular facials to help increase your skin’s circulation and firmness. Natural exfoliation creams, firming masks and hydrating treatments will also help rejuvenate skin’s appearance. This is prime time to get non-surgical facelifts, also called facial toning, which use electromagnetic energy to lift cheeks, decrease jowls and eliminate sagging around the eyes. Sun avoidance is critical, but expect that some damage has already been done if you haven’t been a loyal sun block wearer. Natural facial peels may reduce sun pigmentation. Keep sun block on at all times and use moisturizers containing retinoids and antioxidants (such as vitamin C serum) on face and neck. Nothing replaces eating antioxidant-rich whole, raw fruits and vegetables, though. Although wrinkles, age spots and broken capillaries are now visible, it’s

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the risk of skin cancer which really rises. Many 50 and 60 year olds have precancerous lesions known as actinic keratosis, tiny dry rough patches that are often felt rather than seen.

Sexy and satisfied at 60-plus

Don’t even think about retiring from daily skin care. It’s never too late to slow the aging process, prevent sun damage and stop the progression of damage you already have. Cell turnover is slow; your complexion is dry and has lost elasticity, pore size increases, sagging skin creates jowls, loss of collagen produces wrinkles, pigmentation increases, and skin becomes a lighter colour due to decreased circulation. But lifestyle factors play a vital role in determining where you’ll go from here. Take up a creative hobby to re-energize your mind, refresh your hair cut and colour monthly, laugh more to decrease stress and frown lines, exercise every single day and eat less while adding more nutrients to every meal. After menopause, when estrogen is no longer produced, adding moisture is critical. Keep the regime you’ve learned in your 40s and 50s (as discussed above) and also try new spa treatments such as natural, less abrasive microdermabrasion and mineral peels that get good results without the harsh effects of chemical acids and high speed exfoliants. Since the major issue becomes sagging, consider regular facial toning (hand-held units can be purchased), acupuncture facelifts and facial exercises that increase firmness. Sun protection becomes vital since precancerous lesions may begin to turn into squamous cell cancer at this age. Since the decades are kinder to some than others, there are great variations in skin condition from person to person. But don’t let genes or general apathy stop you from having the complexion that never gives your age away.

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Listen to Your Gut: Healthy Digestion By John Austen

According to an ancient Chinese belief, “Disease en‑ ters the body through the mouth.” Your digestive system is your largest exposure to the outside world and, besides digestion, is an important physical and immune barrier. Although you may mindlessly stuff food in and let the body do the rest, the process is not that simple.

igestion is a complex process that starts as soon as you put food in your mouth. Prolonged poor digestion may result in this barrier becoming weak, disturbing your intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, fight foreign bacteria and move waste into the colon for elimination. It has been found that one out of three surgeries in North America is due to a digestion problem and the vast majority develops over a long period. That means many people don’t take care to rectify the problem when symptoms begin. Don’t let a digestion problem get worse simply by avoiding it, or thinking it’s “normal.” Don’t rely on medications for relief of heartburn or constipation, which only cover the symptom, don’t address the cause and make the problem worse in the long run. Even the strongest constitutions will eventually show the strain if you choose not to listen to your body’s cries for help. Whether you suffer from gas, bloating, food sensitivities, constipation, acid reflux, irritable bowel or weight gain, food isn’t the problem.

The real problem is what happens to that food after it enters your digestive (or gastrointestinal) system. Beyond medications and remedies, there are natural, simple ways to drastically reduce tummy troubles. Common signs of this serious problem, prevalent in all “civilized” societies, include: headaches, backaches, fatigue, bad breath, body odour, irritability, confusion, constipation, skin problems, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and sciatic pain. In healing your digestive tract, you will not only lose unwanted weight and these uncomfortable symptoms, but you will also enable your body to absorb the vitamins and minerals in food and supplements so that it increases your energy and overall health.

Your inner plumbing

The colon, or large intestine, is susceptible to a continual build up of toxic material found in foods that you eat. The colon is the end portion of the human digestive tract extending from the mouth to the anus. It is approximately five feet long and two and a half inches in diameter. Its major functions are to eliminate waste and conserve water. Waste, impacted feces, dead cells, mucous, parasites, harmful bacteria and worms all pose eventual health problems because our plumbing “backs up” and these poisons enter and circulate in the blood stream. Processed foods such as pasteurized milk, white flour, sugar and foods packaged with preservatives contain toxic elements or lack healthy fibre and slowly clog the intestines. This accumulation of toxins causes impacted film to form, which decreases the digestive tract’s ability to absorb nutrients and lowers metabolism rates. Many practitioners believe that everything from diabetes to cancer is caused by an impacted colon.

Other vital organs for detoxing

The largest internal organ, the liver is responsible for neutralizing and removing harmful substances from the blood. Overloading the liver with toxins can lead to serious fatigue, weight gain, water retention and plaque in the arteries. A healthy liver will increase energy, improve me-

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

tabolism and help you to burn fat. Like the colon and liver, your kidneys are vital to daily health. If they don’t function properly, your body becomes weak and vulnerable to disease. The kidneys eliminate toxins, regulate blood pressure, help the urinary system and filter blood of toxins by producing urine. In order to maintain healthy kidneys, they should be flushed out with a detoxification product on a regular basis and processed foods should be eliminated. Prevent or alleviate problems now, before it’s too late, by cleansing your system of debris. Detoxification breaks up and flushing toxins from the colon. Once this detoxification process is started and continued, you will have more energy, increased wellness and a lower risk of illness. Although there are many detoxification tonics and inner cleansing kits available, many only target one organ or use harsh ingredients which can damage the delicate balance of the intestinal tract. Choose products such as herbal teas and remedies that are diluted in water which restore the body’s health in a gentle but very effective way. The best herbs for liver, kidney and colon detoxification include milk thistle, blessed thistle, persimmon leaves, malva leaves and marshmallow leaves. Blessed thistle has bitter properties which increase gastric juices, relieving dyspepsia, indigestion and headaches associated with liver congestion, and stimulate bile flow, aid digestion and cleanse the liver. Persimmon leaves, commonly used to make tea in India, have beneficial effects on general health, but are also used for constipation, hypertension, weight loss (since it increases the amount of fats removed from the body as feces), and even atherosclerosis. Marshmallow leaves are used to treat inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract and to relieve irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract. Malva leaves are made into tea to help soothe the membranes of the digestive system. They are mildly astringent and diuretic and sometimes used to treat gastroenteritis, stomach ache and spleen conditions in addition to detoxification.

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Cancer: A Treatable Disease By Michelle Kwon

f you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you have many questions, particularly concerning your treatment options. Knowing all available approaches, not just the most widely accepted ones, will help you to face the challenges head on. As Lance Armstrong and his LiveStrong Foundation promote, “Knowledge is power and attitude is everything.” Cancer is now a disease that is not only preventable, but curable. Similar to heart disease a few decades ago, if you had the disease, your chances of a poor outcome were far greater than today. Through high tech diagnostics, natural therapies and committing to a healthy lifestyle as soon as you are diagnosed (if not before), having these diseases no longer automatically points to a negative outcome. However, a more enlightened mindset must be taken toward cancer to truly understand the disease. Surviving is about personal empowerment and engagement in your own health through nutrition, exercise, emotional support and natural therapies. To support your healing journey, you need a personalized cancer care plan which considers aspects of your illness, your health and your lifestyle. Although surgery plays a very important role in treatment, it doesn’t address the underlying factors that predispose you to the disease and even prevent your healing. In today’s “fight against cancer” we may be losing sight of the fact that the disease is not an alien being that has inhabited the body, but a growth of the body. It needs to be handled in a way that heals, rather than drastically trying to eradicate the invader at great expense to the rest of the body. Given the side effects and inconclusive results of chemotherapy and radiation, our best hope may be in therapies that enhance the body’s own immune protection and the way it responds to cancer cells. Dr. Mamdooh Ghoneum, PhD, Chief of Research, Department of Otolaryngology, Charles Drew University of Medicine in Los Angeles has spent 20 years studying

substances that effect immune response. He discovered that compounds found in nature may be just as effective as drugs for cancer treatment. While experimenting with extracts from mushrooms, herbs, fungi and bacteria, he stumbled across a substance that interested him enough to abandon all other projects, including government-funded research, in order to focus on it. The substance, MGN-3, is an extract of rice bran, modified by enzymes from shiitake mushrooms. In studies involving 72 patients, the efficacy of MGN-3 equalled or surpassed all commonly used immune-modulating drugs (those that effect the body’s immune response) but, in stark contrast, showed no toxicity or negative side effects. The data regarding MGN-3 was published in technical journals and presented at international research conferences, but the information remains largely unknown to oncologists and other health professionals dealing with cancer patients.

What is its role in cancer treatment?

Our immune system’s natural killer (NK) cells are white blood cells that fight infection and disease. They work independently to recognize and attack a foreign cell and are considered to be the body’s first line of defence against cancer. Once activated, the NK cells begin aggressive searchand-destroy activities. Upon encountering a tumour cell, the NK cell injects a substance that quickly dissolves it. In less than five minutes, the cancer cell is dead and the NK moves to its next victim. A single NK cell can destroy up to 27 cancer cells before it dies. However, the number of NK cells present doesn’t indicate the efficiency of the body’s immune system. Instead, it is the activity – how well NK cells are recognizing and binding to tumour cells – that is important. In a healthy person, NK cell activity is from 60 to 75 percent, and in cancer patients, activity ranges from near 0 to 30 percent. Most substances that affect the immune system, including MGN-3, do not increase the number of NK cells but increase their function. Dr. Ghoneum’s research suggests that MGN3 simulates the production of chemicals that have

photo: Ranplett

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

www.vistamagonline.com direct anti-tumour effects and activate the body’s NK cells, as well as B-cells and T-cells, which are other protective cells. He found that MGN-3 can be safely used in conjunction with conventional treatment, including chemotherapy, to decrease side effects. In 32 cancer patients with different types of advanced malignancies who had completed surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, taking MGN-3 led to a significant increase in NK cell activity after only one to two weeks. The increase in NK activity in patients taking MGN-3 correlated with increased survival rates. In longterm follow-up of patients (up to five years), Dr. Ghoneum’s team observed that the effect of MGN-3 on NK cell activity is maintained indefinitely with continued use. Conventional medicine has excellent anti-tumour therapies that reduce cancer cell numbers. Unfortunately, as Dr. Ghoneum explains, it is difficult to achieve 100 percent kill rate without killing the patient in the process. At best, doctors can hope to kill 95 to 98 percent of the cancer cells with these therapies. At this point, a patient may be considered “in remission” and treatment is stopped. However these remissions are frequently short-lived. Chemotherapy and radiation suppress the immune system, lowering the fighting power of anti-cancer cells. Following treatment, the few hardy cancer cells that survive are left to replicate largely unchallenged by a damaged immune system, and the cancer eventually resurfaces. Dr. Mamdooh Ghoneum feels that the practise of “watchful waiting,” or monitoring patients in remission, wastes a golden opportunity to provide increased support to the immune system. At early stages of detection, or in more advanced stages when the tumour has been reduced as far as possible by surgery and/or chemotherapy, boosting the immune system allows the body to eradicate the remaining cells that have escaped the chemicals, radiation or surgery. However, substances including MGN-3 cannot replace these therapies, especially in the case of advanced malignancies. In these cases, even an extremely active immune response is easily overwhelmed by the huge numbers of cancer cells present. Instead, Dr. Ghoneum recommends that cancer patients begin MGN-3 at the same time or immediately following other therapies. He has found that leukemia and multiple myeloma have been particularly responsive to MGN-3 therapy. Dr. Ghoneum offers solid data collected from human, rather than animal, clinical trials which reveal compelling evidence that MGN-3 may positively affect the immune system, is free of side effects and shows promise in cancer treatment. Supporting your overall health and your immune system aids healing, improves your quality of life and enhances full recovery.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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The True Wealth of Health Part Two: Exercise management By Cory Holly

xercise develops and improves your muscle strength, endurance, aerobic capacity and flexibility. When exercise is done correctly and combined with the right food and supplements, the result is ideal body composition (fat in relation to muscle), greater tolerance to both emotional and physical stress and improved resistance to disease. Since fitness is measurable it should be a mandatory component of a medical exam. Where there is health there must be evidence of health. A complete fitness assessment is an excellent predictor of disease and risk of death. You can’t bribe iron (during a weight lifting test) or cheat on a flexibility test. Your physical performance, when examined objectively, is what it is. We are all engaged in the sport of living. Without exception, life cuts every player out who isn’t fit enough to make the team. No job, no matter how physically demanding, can give you total fitness or balance and symmetry achieved through proper exercise. The body adapts to the intensity of the work stress imposed, and once it has adapted, never rises above that standard. This is the first law of thermodynamics and the concept of energy conservation. Meanwhile the natural forces around us responsible for causing erosion of mind and body (sarcopenia) are constantly working on every living organism. One of the worst health offenders is immobility, as in sitting in front of a computer for hours without end. Sitting impedes circulation and for the most part, decays the erector spinae, multifidus, obliques and gluteal muscles of the lower back. In the same way you eat, sleep, breathe and eliminate waste out of necessity, do the same for exercise. Do it to improve your mental and physical well-being. Do it to resist infection and chronic disease. Do it to live longer and better. Do it for your kids. Do it to keep your youthful shape.

Natural health products

Don’t take supplements to compensate for a bad diet. Instead add the finest supplements available to the best possible diet, and then combine them with controlled exercise. The new paradigm of sports nutrition focuses on minimizing damage to your body as you age, extending your health span and maximizing quality of life. No one has ever died of old age, but everyone will die from damage. “Health span” refers to the time you spend alive functioning without chronic pain or prescription medication. For the average Canadian, health span ends at age 35, but according to both Dr. James Fries and Linus Pauling, PhD, it’s possible to extend our health span beyond your eighth decade.

Clinical sports nutrition

Clinical sports nutrition specializes in nutrition, human performance and disease prevention. Understanding what it is and how it’s obtained will help you to gain energy; and energy is king. First determine your functional health and physical condition. This is achieved through a personal inter-

view, dietary analysis, review of medication and supplements, and a fitness assessment. Additional procedures may include hair analysis, a customized profile of blood, hormones and urine chemistry, and a chiropractic exam. The next step is to identify personal objectives and design a practical lifestyle strategy to achieve goals. This process should lead to the following: 1) A structured one-hour exercise programme (five days per week), that emphasizes a brief warm-up period, resistance exercise (one bodypart), core training, aerobic conditioning and a complete body stretch. 2) A diet consisting of whole natural plant and/or animal food based on the prime directive of nutrition to supply the body’s biological demand. 3) Supplements featuring essential nutrients, antioxidants, protein shakes blended with omega-3 rich oil, whey protein isolate, creatine monohydrate, L-glutamine, ribose, spirulina and calcium ascorbate, and a variety of nutrients and selected botanical and homeopathic agents.

Vertical illness

The majority of modern day illnesses are caused or exacerbated by physical inactivity, nutrient insufficiency, chronic acidosis (too much acidity in the blood), dehydration, sleep deprivation and prescription drug abuse. Every illness symptom including infection, fatigue, headache, constipation, food cravings and obesity can be traced back to an original cause. Treating chronic symptoms with prescription drugs will not remedy the cause of the problem. Any gardener knows that to kill a weed, you’ve got to pull the weed out by the roots. The original medical paradigm of diagnoses and treatment was developed by necessity in a time dominated by widespread infectious disease. This paradigm no longer applies to today’s epidemic of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. These conditions are imposed on the body directly and primarily through lifestyle, not by an infectious agent. Our health is guided mainly by the choices we make. Managing your health is like managing money. Don’t expect it before the work is done. Health is also a by-product of work. Unfortunately, we’re not taught to spend money carefully, or invest it wisely. Ignore money and it will disappear. Ignore health and you’ll lose it. Health is spelled W-O-R-K. Smart, hard work. Smart work applies to knowing why and following through with consistent action. Hard work applies to the action. There’s no substitute for intensity mixed with outstanding form in a workout. Going through the “motions” is a waste of time and an insult to your integrity. If you’re going to exercise then do it with diligence and pride. Release your passion. Go for the gusto! Muscle is your supreme leader, your engine that pulls the train. As always, stay well… The Cory Holly Institute is a world leader in sports nutrition, anti-aging, health and fitness education. Visit CoryHolly.com for more information.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

ORIGINAL

Enhance the look of your hair, skin and nails - Naturally

Silicea Balsam colloidal gel is a proven success through its use by millions of women and men across Europe and North America. Clinical and field studies clearly support the benefits for use of dietary Silica.* *Lassus A. 1993; 21:209-215

Original Silicea Balsam gel is different from many other silica supplements in either a capsule or pill form. It is a colloidal dietary supplement of natural silica in which microscopic particles are so finely dispersed in water that a gel is formed. This makes Original Silicea Balsam easier to absorb for maximum effectiveness. Original Silicea Balsam gel assists in supporting the connective tissue helping to smooth the skin, maintain elasticity and improve the condition of hair and nails. There is only one Original Silicea Balsam gel. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation for quality and purity is world renowned. Beware of imitations!

Lustrous Hair Luminous Skin Healthier Nails

Exclusive German Import with NO PRESERVATIVES and NO ADDITIVES! Also available in a capsule form, Silicea Calcium is a calcium supplement to help boost dietary intake of calcium, with added silica and biotin. *Lassus A. conducted his clinical study at the Helsinki Research Centre based on the oral and topical application of Silicea not containing any preservatives or additives.

Hair thickness in micrometers

68 66 64

Increase of hair thickness

+13% +8%

60 58 56 54

Before

After 3 months

After 6 months

The information in this ad is intended strictly for research and educational purposes, not as a diagnostic tool or a prescription for any ailment.

Study results show that using Original Silicea Balsam produced a significant increase in hair thickness of +8% after 3 months and +13% after 6 months.

Sold in Europe for over 50 years

Original Silicea Balsam is available at fine health food retailers www.nakaherbs.com

080818-Vista 1/3 Page Ad:Layout 1

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What Keeps Couples Together? By Michelle Kwon

D #39 Acidic Stomach Alkaline Balance Extremely

important to prevent discomforts & diseases. A nonacidic stomach and alkaline balanced body can prevent most common diseases states Dr. C. Hammoud M.H. PhD. Most people in North America have an acidic stomach (excessive acid) and acidic body by eating 80% acid producing foods, like sugar (worst), red meat, dairy products, white bread & noodles, white rice, chips, cola soda pop, coffee, alcohol, drugs and at best 20% alkaline foods (like vegetables, legumes and fruit). It should be the other way around. The Saying "you are what you eat" is 100% true. What foods to eat inside the box. Everybody knows swimming pools have to be pH alkaline neutral. Our body has to be pH alkaline neutral as well to avoid discomforts and illnesses like: Acidic stomach(you should not need anti-acid pills), reflux, indigestion, stress (biggest killer), tiredness, depression, weight gain, diabetes, arthritis, vascular diseases and cancer is unlikely to grow in an alkaline body. Read what many health professionals write on the public internet, including Dr. Otto Warburg, two-time Nobel Prize Winner. As long as our body is acidic all supplements we take may not be effective, because our blood will take calcium from our bones and vitamins & minerals from our organs and tissues to remain pH neutral. A healthy alkaline balance can be restored by a proper diet change to more vegetable, legumes and fruit and/or by taking an inexpensive supplement like Bell Acidic Stomach/Alkaline Balance #39. Inexpensive, compared to the well being it helps to create. If a person's body is acidic, he or she may not show symtoms of an illness until acidic wastes and toxins accumulate. Don’t wait for sickness to take action. It comes with a free pH test kit. Money-back guarantee. Full details on our web site. It does work. I personally am using it and my pH moved from acidic range to alkaline in 2 months. A Canadian medical doctor is using #39 in his practice and reports similar findings. INGREDIENTS: Alfalfa extract, barley grass, MSM, blue green algae, chamomile extract, cinamon powder, robinia pseudoacacia, natrum phosphoricum, kali carbonicum, kali sulfericum, sodium bicarbonate, calcium bicarbonate, berberine alkaloid, alovera powder, rheum officinate.

50 PRODUCTS THAT REALLY WORK Available in over 7000 health food stores and pharmacies across Canada and U.S.A. For list of stores near you, visit our website at: www.BellLifestyleProducts.com and click WHERE TO BUY to search for store locations using your postal code. Or call 1-800-333-7995. MoFr 9-4 EST. Give this ad to a friend. Nothing can be more noble than helping others. All 50 Bell products are available to your local store. Don’t accept substitutes. If in outlying areas your local store does not carry the wanted Bell products, place the order by telephone or order on our web site, click on WHERE TO BUY. Sent via Express Post. Shipping & handling $9.95 per order.

r. Phil says 75 percent of all couples have problems in their sex life, and a high number of marriages experience stress and even end due to differences in sexual needs. In the new book Put Passion First, Carol Cassel, PhD states that while our culture feeds us a steady diet of sexual imagery, most women are starved when it comes to understanding and expressing their true sensual nature and deeply felt passion. She says, “You are also bombarded with messages about finding a harmonious, compatible partner for love to ‘last,’ a marriage built on the bedrock of mutual respect, commitment, devotion and ability to communicate. While these are qualities of a good marriage, they are not enough for deep-in-your-bones satisfaction with being together, and many married people know it. …Scratch the surface of a contented couple and you’ll find that sexual passion is always there — it ebbs and flows but can ignite in a heartbeat. Passion is the glue that makes a partnership exciting and playful and helps it stick.” So where did your sexual desires go? Although some painful disorders such as endometriosis can dampen your drive, for many women, stress and lack of time are the culprits for the disappearance of the relaxed playfulness that is so important to remain sexually active. A full-time job, a household, children and elderly parents to look after all leave little time and energy to rekindle romance with your partner. In a Time Magazine article published in the January 2005 issue, 900 women participated in a survey which revealed that their seven favourite activities were (in descending order): 1. sex, 2. socializing, 3. relaxing, 4. praying/meditating, 5. eating, 6. exercising, and 7. watching TV. Far down on the list was taking care of their children, which ranked below cooking and only slightly above housework, though women frequently say their children are their biggest source of joy. Lack of sleep, lack of exercise, unhealthy eating and unexpressed needs, emotions and resentments can all curb your cravings for fulfilling sex. But don’t forget that we remain sexual beings for as long as we live, and you can make changes to enhance your sex life to ensure that is just as exciting as it was in your 20s. You may choose to do nothing to nurture it as you age, and let your ability to enjoy sex, and as a result your marital relationship, deteriorate. But suppressing one of your most basic instincts is not good for your mental and physical well-being. A good sex life is important for your happiness. It keeps you young and vital.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

How to increase sexual desires? Although there are numerous drugs on the market for men (that work in about 60 percent of all cases), no drugs have been developed that effectively address the sexual needs of women, enhance their libido and increase overall interest in sex. Natural remedies, however, which have had proven results and come without the negative side effects associated with drugs, are now available in health stores. Some promote that they effectively and safely increase a woman’s libido, in addition to working as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with problems including endometriosis and even urinary tract infections. They start with ingredients that occur naturally in plants and animals such as amines. Amines are essential elements for cellular and tissue growth and regeneration, and are found in oats, cucumbers and radishes. Amines work with the body’s own natural processes to help rejuvenate the entire sexual reproductive system – sperm production, libido, performance in men, and libido, desire and stimulation in women. Clinical trials and observational studies have shown that the amines in these plants work effectively to mimic the human body’s molecules in the hormonal system, from the brain to the sexual glands, to enhance sexual health. The production of testosterone, which is the primary sexual hormone for both men and women, starts in the hypothalamus and pituitary of the brain. The hypothalamus and pituitary send out important chemicals to stimulate the natural production of hormones that are in a feedback loop back to the brain that initiated the hormone production. These amines also work safely with no evidence of detrimental effects on health and are said to be phytonutrients, which are also good for overall well-being. We may all expect a satisfying sex life to happen automatically and to last forever. But unfortunately we often need a little help along the way. Your sexual youth peaks at age 20. From then on, both men and women experience a decline in sexual abilities and desires. The Mount Sinai School of Medicine newsletter states that 50 percent of all men over 40 have some performance problems, which equates to millions of men that are sexually frustrated and millions of wives that are unfulfilled. If you or your partner is experiencing challenges, don’t discount them or turn to romance novels and movies to avoid them. True “they lived happily ever after” romance for couples is impossible without both individuals making efforts to have a satisfying sex life.

BATHROOM ARTHRITIS TRIPS? Frequent

Pain free in 2 weeks.

Bell Prostate Ezee Flow Tea #4a Most men have relief in 3-5

days from dribbling, burning and rushing to the toilet. Must help or money refunded! Works in virtually every case. If you are considering surgery, try this tea first. Hundreds of delighted men testifying on our web site: Had to get up every hour at � night. Now I get up once a night. Joseph Whittaker, Sewell, NJ � I cancelled my prostate surgery. Get up once a night. I'm so happy not to have to face the torment of a prostate operation. Albert E. Blain, 74, Schumacher, ON �Even after TURP prostate surgery and microwave therapy had to get up many times. Now down to 1-2 times. Tea is 100% better than drugs. Robert G. Stocker, Eustasis, FL �After 1st year drinking tea my PSA went down to 4.5; after 2nd year to 2.9; after 3rd year to 2.3. I highly recommend the tea. A real life saver. Thomas M. Thurston, Forsyth, GA �We supply EVIDENCE with full names and towns. Large box, 120g.

Bell Bladder Control Tea #4b Most women have relief

within days from incontinence, frequency, urgency and pain. Stop needless suffering and embarrassments. Go shopping & traveling with confidence. Must help or money refunded. True evidence with full names and towns: �No more wetting accidents. Within a week I was in complete control. No side effects like with drugs I took. Deborah Haight, 49, Collingwood, ON �Incredible results. It's hard to believe a nondrug item is producing such quick relief. I suffered for 20 years with frequency and embarrassments. I now sleep through the night. Linda Kleber, 62, Milford, NJ � First surgery didn't work. After drinking tea for 12 days, Glory to God, I had relief. Cancelled dreaded second surgery. I'm eternally grateful. Gail F. Moore, 68, Round Pond, ME � I had this embarrassing bladder problem for 30 years. Had countless tests and endless prescribed pills. My numerous urinary infections are gone. I'm glad I didn't have surgery. Ellen Bower, Kanata, ON � After trying every medication in the last 5 years, tea gave complete relief in 6 days. Thank you for this great product, and above all, for truth in advertising. Marina Rosa, 57, Las Vegas, NV �Stop needless suffering Large box 120g.

This is what happened to me personally. After suffering for years I desperately tried everything, drugs, natural products, physiotherapy, acupuncture, magnets and nothing was of any real help. Finally I had relief in 2 weeks by taking shark cartilage that was specially processed to preserve the natural active ingredients. This is the kind we are now promoting. At first I offered it to friends and they had the same quick relief. I realized then that there are over 50 million men and women in USA and Canada that are battling the same illness and getting treatments that are not working well, otherwise we would not have this ongoing huge health problem. I started to offer the only money-back guarantee of all arthritis products and we are still doing it today. In the last 10 years we have helped tens of thousands of men and women to have less pain or no pain at all. This is a previously thrown away byproduct of the food industry. No sharks are caught for the cartilage.

We have real EVIDENCE that it works. On our web site you find over 100 testimonials with full names and towns. All 100% true. Skeptics may call them. Here are some examples: �I recommend it to those millions suffering needlessly like I did for 40 years with arthritis in my knees. It's a shame that I was given drugs and injections all these years when a natural medicine could have spared me the endless torture day and night. Pat Laughlin, Coldwater, ON �My hip is 95% pain free. Pain killing drugs mask and Bell Shark Cartilage heals. Rebecca Hite, Oroville, CA �I tried another brand and pain came back. 2 weeks on Bell and pain is gone again. Gert Dupuis, Hanmer, ON �Cancelled knee replacement. I was in pain and limping. Have no more pain now. Can square dance for hours. Anton Melnychuk, Porcupine Plain, SK �For 32 years I cried barrels of tears. Was in and out of hospitals costing society tens of thousands of dollars. I have taken many thousands of pills that nearly killed me. Finally 3 bottles of Bell Shark Cartilage costing less than $100 stopped a lifetime of suffering without side effects. Eleanor Sauson, Shigawake, QC �Others write: Can walk again for hours…Climb stairs without hanging on to railing…First time in 15 years can sleep at night…Rheumatoid pain in joints down 90%, same for my sister. You need 3 bottles to take 4 capsules 3 times daily until you have pain relief. Most have relief in 2-3 weeks or we refund the money. Success rate 98%. Know the truth: Lancet Medical Journal confirms that all drugs contribute to the destruction of joint cartilage and cause internal bleedings, heart attacks and strokes as well as liver and kidney failures. The FDA office published figures showing that one miracle drug alone caused 139,000 heart attacks and strokes and about 50,000 were fatal. Many people wrote why do medical school teach only about drugs and nothing about natural health products. Isn't it time to try a natural health product that has none of the above side effects? Most can be helped quickly or I refund your money. Nick A. Jerch, President.

Libido

Dr. Phil says 75% of all couples have problems in their sex life. Not surprisingly, over 75% of all marriages are stressed or break up causing grief to the whole extended family. Quick, effective help is available. These natural products are based on amines that are found in oats, cucumbers, radishes and all our cells. They are safe to take based on research by the Wayne State University. FDA approved for sale. Guaranteed to work better than any other product you’ve tried.

For Men

For Women

In my opinion, these products are exciting and provide the medical profession with a breakthrough affordable and effective therapeutic alternative to all other herbal products and Dr. Frank Sweet N.M.D. drugs available.

EroxilTM helps

most men to perform like in their 20’s. Evidence of a few hundred testimonials on our web site with full names and towns. All 100% true: �Eroxil is the best of all the supplements for men I’ve tried. Boosts my sex drive and I’m able to function anytime. Angus Gutke, 45, Calgary, AB �Regained virility in 3 days. My libido was restored for good sex. I’ve given it also to friends with the same results. One of them is a diabetic and overweight. Dr. Louis Rolland, 72, St. Hyacinthe, QC �Having orgasms off the Richter scale. It’s like I’m a teenager again. The world owes you big time. Lawrie Roberts, 47, Toronto, ON �Wonderful to feel like a man again. It’s wonderful to feel close to my wife again. God bless you! Charles E. Palen, 77, Burnaby, BC ErosynTM is the only product that helps most women to restore libido, desire and the ability to climax. There is no drug or natural product like it. Evidence from our web site: �Erosyn saved my marriage. I’m overjoyed! My libido is back. Words cannot describe how grateful I am. Carla Daunais, 32, St-Hubert, QC �Intimacy like 35 years ago when we were dating. Erosyn is awesome! Climaxes like when I was in my 20’s. Swierina Stratford, 55, Essex, ON �My sexual desire is greater now than it was for 30 years. It’s wonderful to have such ecstatic joy. I’ve tried others that didn’t work. Eve Jameson, 58, Kingman, AZ �I’m 92 and sex is good again. Regained intimacy makes life more interesting. Florence Fryer, Edmonton, AB

Are you suffering with these ailments? #5a Bell Ezee Slimming Patches makes people less hungry, consequently it’s easy to stop overeating, eliminate cravings for sweets and fattening foods. The easy and only permanent way to lose weight. #14 HDL Cholesterol Control, no side effects. #15 MIGRAID Headaches, must work within 30 minutes or money refunded. #21a Sleep & Relax Tea, many people wrote works better than sleeping pills, no side effects, Must help or Money Refunded. #22 Stop Snoring Spray. Lots of testimonials on our web site. #23 Snoring & Sleep Apnea Eze. Stops snoring and gasping for air. #24 Allergy Relief, for all seasonal and year-round allergies, dust, food, animals. Must Help or Money Refunded #26 Blood Pressure Combo, Works! See our web site. #28 Constipation Tea in capsules. Gentle and easy regularity #30 Carpal Tunnel Wrist Pain. Try this before surgery, most have quick relief..

#39 Excessively Acidic Stomach/Alkaline Balance. An acidic body causes reflux, indigestion, stress, tiredness, depression, weight gain, diabetes, vascular diseases and cancer starts in acidic cells that are deprived of oxygen. Print free brochure with extensive details from our web site. Money back Guarantee #47 Longevity in Good Health a Dr. C. Hammoud PhD anti-aging product based on research from around the world showing that life span in good health can be extended by preventing illnesses. Print free brochure with full details from our web site. #51 Shark Liver Oil is guaranteed to prevent colds & flus. #52 Supreme Immune Booster helps to prevent cancer and heart disease. 400 medical studies. Print free brochure with full details from medical experts from our web site. Money back Guarantee #60 Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, guaranteed relief or money refunded. #63 Stem Cell Activator Helps to achieve naturally millions of stem cells from your own bone marrow. Stem cells are located in all organs and under our skin. They have the potential of self-repair of body tissue. See the remaining 50 products on our web site www.BellLifestyleProducts.com

50 PRODUCTS THAT REALLY WORK

Available in over 7000 health food stores and pharmacies across Canada and U.S.A. For list of stores near you, visit our website at: www.BellLifestyleProducts.com and click WHERE TO BUY to search for store locations using your postal code. Or call 1-800-333-7995. Mo-Fr 9-4 EST. Give this ad to a friend. Nothing can be more noble than helping others. All 50 Bell products are available to your local store. Don’t accept substitutes. If in outlying areas your local store does not carry the wanted Bell products, place the order by telephone or order on our web site, click on WHERE TO BUY. Sent via Express Post. Shipping & handling $9.95 per order.

We are grateful for the opportunity to improve the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of men and women. 080818

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First Step in the Food Chain By John Austen

otent food powered by the sun. The lives of all animals in the sea depend on microscopic marine plants called micro-algae or phytoplankton for food. Like plants growing in soil on land, phytoplankton contain lots of chlorophyll, which gives them a dark green colour. Chlorophyll is used by plants for photosynthesis, which uses sunlight as an energy source. Phytoplankton have the ability to transform sunlight, inorganic minerals and carbon dioxide into protein, carbohydrates, essential fats and countless other phytonutrients, making them a naturally whole food. They use these nutrients as building blocks to grow, and fish and humans eat the plants to get these same nutrients. Because sunlight is found at and near the water’s surface, phytoplankton remain there. They’re called “plankton” because they drift in the water, rather than staying put, like most plants with roots. Micro-algae transform our oceans. In the ocean, animals live and die. After death, their bodies sink to the ocean floor where they decompose and transform into basic nutrients needed by phytoplankton. Tiny fish called krill eat phytoplankton, which in turn are eaten by humpback whales in quantities up to a tonne a day. Phytoplankton is also eaten by small floating animals called zooplankton, which are then eaten by small fish. Further up the food chain, whales eat up to 1,400 kilograms (3,000 pounds) of small fish, totalling over a million calories each day. Whales feed in murky Canadian waters instead of the warm and clear waters of the Caribbean because there is more phytoplankton and fish in northern waters. The greatest threat to global warming? Even if animals couldn’t eat them, we would still die without phytoplankton. They supply our atmosphere with 90 percent of its oxygen. That means that most of the world’s oxygen doesn’t come from majestic old growth forests, but tiny ocean plants. Taking this into consideration, scientists and politicians desperate to find solutions to global warming should be much more concerned with keeping our oceans healthy and pristine. The first step in the food chain is three billion years old. When you consider what came first on the Earth and what has remained a source of life for both the tiniest animals and the largest mammals, it’s difficult to fathom that these plant powerhouses can’t even be seen with the eye. It’s also hard to imagine that any species of plant could survive for three billion years without needing to evolve and adapt to the world’s changes like every other living thing. Does that mean that micro-algae were perfect to begin with? It is safe to say that if these minuscule plants are that old, they must be good for the planet, and for everything that lives on it. Your cells contain the genetic code of the sea. It is thought that our cells contain the same genes as the ocean for the same reason that children carry the genetic information received from their parents – we came from there. This code shows that your body needs at least 90 nutrients a day to be healthy, and 60 of them are minerals! You require the minerals that exist in the sea to help almost every one of the thousands of processes that occur in your body. The body strictly maintains the mineral content of the fluid to resemble that of the prehistoric sea, even robbing minerals from the bones or other tissue to do so. In the ocean, billions of phytoplankton metabolize these minerals from volcanic rock during their life cycle. The minerals from sea plants are in the most absorbable form possible, mean-

ing that the body can incorporate them directly into the cells and tissues. To get the most bio-available form of minerals from phytoplankton and other sea plants, take them in liquid form. Fish fats don’t have to come from fish. Phytoplankton also provide more essential fatty acids than any fish (or fish oil), and are rich in EPA and DHA (the omega-3s that you thought only came from fish), and omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9 fatty acids. The essential fats are also absorbed better, not only because fish oil is not digested well by everyone, but because the EPA and DHA in the phospholipids of algae can more easily cross what is called the blood/brain barrier to your brain than EPA and DHA in fish oil. In other words, the transfer mechanism to your brain — where you need these essential fats the most — is more efficient with micro-algae. Phytoplankton do their part by providing an abundance of protein, 22 amino acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, D as well as important enzymes. They also help restore the body’s natural acid/alkaline balance. In addition, research has shown that phytoplankton may help the body oxygenate from the inside out through the amount of oxygen they produce. This might also be a key to creating an inner environment that protects the body from disease. Consider eating more from the sea than fish, and make sea plants a regular part of your healthy diet. This will ensure that you get all of the vitamins, minerals and essential fats which your body needs every day to thrive.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

SUPER Phytoplankton Rx • Organic Growing Process • Potent Antioxidants • Fortified with Kelp • Cellular Nourishment • State-of-the-Art Technology Super Phytoplankton Rx contains specific strains of phytoplankton to provide the optimal nutritional profile for human needs. There are more than 10,000 different strains of phytoplankton which have been identified, but not all phytoplankton provide the ideal balance of nutrients for human development, especially the lipid profile. Super Phytoplankton Rx provides a superior Essential Fatty Acid profile, including improved bioavailability over fish and vegetable oils. Like vitamins, Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are required for life. EFAs are precursors to the Prostaglandins - regulators of cell activity and essential for maintaining good health. % OF TOTAL LIPIDS • 16% EPA and 9% DHA (omega 3) • 12% palmitoleic acid (omega 7) • 10% oleic acid (omega 9) • 7% linoleic, gamma linolenic and arachidonic acid (omega 6)

When our special strains of phytoplankton are blended with kelp, the result is the most advanced ‘superfood’ possible. The important cellular nourishment provided by this superior formula will dramatically assist the body’s ability to heal itself.

Make it a part of your healthy diet! Enerex Botanicals Ltd. 50 mg with 450 mg kelp

100 mg with 600 mg kelp

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305-6741 Cariboo Road, Burnaby, BC Canada V3N 4A3 Tel: 604-422-8777, Toll Free: 1-888-411-1988

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How Many Vitamins Do You Need? By AJ Keillor

here is so much information about supplements and so many different types available that it’s hard to know what you really need. Luckily, there is a basic supplement formula that we can all build our health regime on. Get rid of those handfuls of supplements that you are not sure you really need and simplify with an effective supplement plan. It’s as easy as one, two, three.

What you need: essentials

Your body is not a simple machine. It needs many essential nutrients to function properly. Essential nutrients include vitamins, minerals, some fats and amino acids. Antioxidants should also be considered essential because they help you to fight aging and disease. New research has also unveiled the enormous importance of probiotics for a healthy body. Getting these essential nutrients into your diet is the foundation to every good supplement plan.

Confused by supplement shelves?

To ensure that your body is working optimally, you need essential nutrients. If you ask a nutritionist, “What supplements do I really need?” they would say: a multivitamin, multi-essential fatty acid supplement and a multi-probiotic. It’s true. Health is as easy as one, two, three! These three supplements help to ensure that your body has all of the basic nutrients it needs to stay strong and healthy and working optimally.

Tired of taking handfuls of supplements?

You’re not alone. Many people want to maximize their health by using supplements but find their morning handful of pills hard to swallow. If your morning pile of supplements is so difficult that you’re considering not taking them at all, than its time to simplify. Use “multi” supplements such as multivitamins, multi-EFAs and multi-probiotics. For example, replace your vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E pills for a multivitamin – that’s just one pill instead of three.

Choosing a multivitamin

Choose a multivitamin that offers you a balance of all essential vitamins and minerals. Ask about good quality products at your local health food store and read labels carefully to ensure that the total dosage offers you the daily recommended value (DRV) of each nutrient. Remember, the daily recommended value is the minimum amount you need to avoid deficiency. Combined with a healthy diet, your multivitamin will offer all of the essential nutrients to keep you happy, vital and healthy.

if your multivitamin tablet breaks down appropriately in your body, then simply put it in a glass of water and wait 30 minutes. A good tablet will have dissolved by then. If not, then the tablet may enter your intestines still in its solid form – and if it’s not absorbed by then, it won’t be used by the body.

Fatten-up your diet: essential fatty acids

The North American diet is lacking in good fats called essential fatty acids. As a result, a multi-essential fatty acid supplement is often recommended, which may contain omega -3, -6 and -9. These fats are found in foods we seldom eat in our modern diet, such as fish, flax and hemp. Essential fatty acids are called essential because our body can not function properly without them, but cannot make them, so they must be obtained from food. Evidence showing the role of fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) in mental and cardiovascular health illustrates the importance of these fats. There are two truly essential fatty acid compounds but, to keep in line with our plan to simplify supplements, all you need to remember is that fish oil and borage oil (omega-6 fatty acid from borage seeds) are essential, and therefore a multi-essential fatty acid supplement often includes fish oil and borage oil.

A spoonful of bugs: probiotics

In your body there are more microbes than your own body’s cells. Good microbes are called probiotics, and offer health benefits that include helping your body fight infections and improving your digestion. There are many types of probiotics, but the two main families are lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. You need both families to be healthy. In fact, you already have these types and hundreds of other forms of probiotics in your body. As a result, your supplement should also contain a wide variety. Look for a probiotic that has both lactobacilli and bifidobacteria species in it – read the label since you will find supplements with over a dozen types of probiotics in them. Also, look for potency. Probiotics are measured in colony-forming units (CFUs); probiotics with a potency of 1 billion CFUs is a good minimum. To date, dosages over 100 billion CFUs are considered safe and effective.

Want health to be as easy as one, two, three?

The best starting point for your supplement plan is to include: 1) a good multivitamin, 2) a good multi-essential fatty acid supplement and, 3) a potent mixture of probiotics. This will offer your body all of the essential nutrients you need to enjoy optimal health.

Step 4: Personalize the plan

Scared of tablets?

In the past, people have been hesitant to buy multivitamins in tablet form since some don’t get properly absorbed by the body. Good quality multivitamins, however, guarantee that the tablet dissolves. If you are not sure

Do you have another health condition? This basic supplement plan can easily be personalized for your health needs. For example, you can add milk thistle if you need added liver support, or black cohosh for hot flashes. Make your supplement plan easy and enjoyable to follow every day.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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What is Carvacrol? By Joel Thuna

Available in 100ml size for single pet families!

Sometimes the smallest family members have the biggest health needs. t t t

D-Glucosamine and anti-inflammatory liquid formula to build strong joints and ligaments. Reduces pain and discomfort of hip dysplasia and arthritis. Improves your pet’s mobility and activity level.

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hroughout the centuries, various cultures have used oregano (Orig‑ anum vulgare) as both food and medicine. The word oregano is derived from ancient Greek words rigani or oros (mountain) and ganos (joy), and after centuries, the scent of oregano still fills the air when you hike hillsides where it grows aggressively in Greece in summer. Oregano contains an incredible variety of minerals and is particularly high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, zinc, boron, potassium, manganese and natural non-toxic iron. Its vitamin content includes niacin, beta carotene, vitamin C and K, riboflavin, and thiamin. But its potent healing properties come from tiny components in its oil. Numerous clinical trials have confirmed the medicinal strength of oregano and have revealed the source of its power, a complex blend of hundreds of natural chemicals all working together to heal and protect. Chief among these components is carvacrol, the spicy volatile phenol naturally found in oregano oil. Phenols are a type of chemical found in basically all foods, but carvacrol is a type that is very effective in fighting all bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Depending on the quality of the oregano plant and annual variations in growing conditions, carvacrol can range from between 40 to 70 percent of its natural oils. Due to the attention carvacrol has received you’ll find more products on the market boasting unrealistically high levels of carvacrol. Distillers have found that by adding synthetic carvacrol during distillation they can increase the carvacrol percentage dramatically. Another method is to fractionate the oil by “boiling off ” other natural oil components to make the carvacrol percentage higher. Unfortunately, these altered oils are not as effective for therapeutic application because the natural synergy is thrown out of equilibrium. Clinical testing of these “spiked” oils and the synthetically produced pure carvacrol has found them to be less potent than natural oregano oil. Once again, nature humbles us. While eating a fresh oregano leaf provides a palatable pleasure, pure oregano oil is very caustic and unsafe for therapeutic use. Get a few drops of pure oil (not blended with other oil) on your skin and you will be paying a visit to your local hospital — it is incredibly painful. That is why all oil of oregano products are blends of oregano oil and carrier oils, typically olive oil. The final product must be well diluted to make a safe and therapeutically effective product for use both internally and externally. Each manufacturer blends at a different ratio of carrier oil to oregano oil, resulting in different strengths of oil of oregano blends. The final carvacrol percentage in the bottle is most frequently from 5 to 15 percent. So why do some products claim to have carvacrol levels in excess of 80 percent? The math just doesn’t add up. For argument’s sake, let’s say we start with oregano oil with an incredibly high carvacrol content of 80 percent (remember, Mother Nature only produces a 70 percent maximum). We now blend it with olive oil to make it safe to use. If we blend it at a 2:1 ratio, with two parts olive oil to one part oregano oil, the oil of oregano will be 26.67 percent carvacrol. At a 4:1 ratio (the most common blend), it would be 16 percent. Based on the literature companies provide for their products, the vast majority start with oregano oil containing far less than even 70 percent carvacrol and then dilute it dramatically. Canadian law states that if a potency claim is made it must be the potency of the finished product, not the potency of the ingredients. So

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

manufacturers must – by law – claim only the carvacrol content of the finished product. Additionally, manufacturers are legally required to confirm the carvacrol content of each batch of finished product through validated laboratory testing. Few companies actually follow either of these laws. Most companies try to fool you into thinking their products are far stronger than they actually are by using misleading terms like “made with oregano oil containing ...” or “containing oregano oil minimum percentage carvacrol.” This only tells you what strength the company starts with, not what you are buying. Only buy oil of oregano that: declares on the label Origanum vulgare (true medicinal oregano) as the species they use; declares the potency of the finished product being the oil of oregano, not the oregano oil before it is diluted; backs up its potency claims with independent laboratory tests on the oil of oregano, not on the ingredient (undiluted oregano oil); is certified kosher – assurance that what is on the label is actually in the product, nothing more and nothing less. Using oil of oregano that meets these criteria will ensure that you are getting all of the therapeutic benefits that oregano has to offer.

Joel Thuna, MH, is a fourth generation master herbalist with over 25 years experience in nutrition.

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Importance of Insulin for Bodybuilders By Joanne Carr

The role of insulin is an on-going topic of conversation reverberating through gyms everywhere. In order to understand the sig‑ nificance of insulin for muscle growth, it is extremely important to have a basic under‑ standing of how insulin is used in the body.

Take Control

of your life and your blood sugar

What is insulin?

Insulin is a hormone that is released into the bloodstream by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels by transporting the sugars (nutrients) into the cells, which are predominately fat and muscle cells. Insulin is the most anabolic (muscle building) hormone in the body because it causes amino acid uptake into muscle tissue, improving muscle growth and the after-workout recovery process. Glucose (a carbohydrate) has the greatest stimulatory effect on insulin.

Gain lean muscle and limit body fat

Sensitizes insulin receptors.

Helps lower blood sugar levels naturally.

When you consume food, blood glucose rises and insulin is released to control blood glucose levels by preventing blood sugar from getting too high. The best way to maintain healthy insulin levels throughout the day is by eating a wide variety of whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables in several small meals. In fact, the only time you should deliberately increase insulin levels is after a workout. It is not good to constantly flood your body with high glycemic, low fibre carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour because these cause insulin to spike. It’s much better to consume carbohydrates that are metabolized slowly and release their sugars less quickly. This keeps glucose and insulin levels closer to a normal “fasting baseline” for the best anabolic effect. Insulin suppression reduces testosterone levels, impairs strength and limits performance, whereas high levels increase risk of obesity and disease.

Glycemic index, insulin, and bodybuilding Effective Supplements Through Science www.oapharma.com / 1-800-651-3172

Gluco-Lo is a trademark of Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. ®The Omega Alpha is a registered trademark of Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. Photo©Peter Teller

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of the after-meal response foods have on blood sugar levels. Foods are measured by comparing them to pure glucose. For example, glucose has a rating of 100. Milk has a rating of 34, meaning that it will move into the blood about three times slower than pure glucose (100/34 = 2.94). These are useful measurements because some complex carbohy-

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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drates have very high GI ratings, such as a baked potato at 94, and some simple carbohydrates have a low rating, like an apple at 40. It is therefore helpful to go beyond the typical simple and complex carbohydrate differentiations and know the GI values of all the foods that you are consuming. For more info, check www.glycemicindex.com as a guideline for glycemic values of various foods.

Supplements and bodybuilding

There are a number of dietary supplements that may enhance blood sugar control and, subsequently, insulin levels for improved lean muscle gains. Look for supplements that contain the following ingredients for maximum effect:

R-Alpha lipoic acid

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant involved in carbohydrate metabolism and is important for the production of the body’s energy source, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ALA has been shown to aid in glucose uptake in the muscle cell. It enhances the speed at which the cells take up and store nutrients from food, allowing for increased recovery time, glycogen storage and protein synthesis. The R-form is used due to its improved absorption and use by the body.

Bitter melon

Also known by its botanical name Momordica charantia, this green cucumber-shaped fruit is cultivated in Asia, Africa and South America. It contains two compounds that mimic the effect of insulin and help control blood sugar levels, allowing for the cells to increase their uptake of nutrients. Bitter melon’s effects on glucose metabolism stem from the fact that it contains an insulin-like polypeptide called polypeptide P, or plant insulin.

Chromium polynicotinate

Chromium polynicotinate produces glucose tolerance factor (GTF), which helps insulin bind to its proper receptors and stabilize blood sugar. It is “bound to” niacin to enhance the absorption of its chromium component, creating better biological activity.

Vanadium sulphate

Vanadium seems to have a positive effect on regulating blood glucose levels by mimicking the physiological effects of insulin. Due to this insulin-mimicking effect it is thought to promote glycogen synthesis, maintain blood glucose levels and stimulate muscle growth.

Banaba leaf

Banaba is a medicinal plant that grows in India, Southeast Asia and the Philippines. It contains a compound known as corosolic acid that stimulates glucose transport into cells and regulates levels of blood sugar and insulin in the blood.

Gymnema sylvestre

Gymnema is an Ayurvedic herb originating from India that raises insulin levels, possibly due to the regeneration of the beta cells in the pancreas. The leaves are also noted for lowering serum cholesterol and triglycerides and reducing intestinal glucose uptake.

With over 10 years experience in the holistic health field, Joanne Carr RHN, BA, is a registered holistic nutritionist who has lectured at natural health prod‑ uct seminars for retailers and consumers across Canada. She also contributes to various natural health publications.

Don’t live in pain because of sports injuries or arthritic conditions. Get on the road to relief with GlucosaJoint.

• Effective in reducing bone and joint pain associated with osteoarthritis or injury. • Contributes to the formation of healthy cartilage and connective tissue. Effective Supplements Through Science www.oapharma.com – 1-800-651-3172

TM – GlucosaJoint is a trademark of Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. ® The Omega Alpha logo is a registered trademark of Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Improve kidney, urinary and prostate health naturally

Falling Strands: Hair Loss Help By John Austen

Why are you going bald? There are many myths for possible causes of baldness and some of them may have a degree of truth. Here are a few: Myth 1: You inherit baldness from your mom’s dad.

Research suggests that the gene that determines the probability for hair loss is located on the X chromosome, and so is always inherited from the mother’s side. As a result, there’s a 50 percent chance that you share the same X chromosome as your maternal grandfather. Research also shows that if your father is balding you have an even greater chance of hair loss.

Myth 2: Bald men are more sexually virile.

Levels of free testosterone are strongly linked to libido and also dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels – high levels of DHT cause baldness – but unless free testosterone is virtually non-existent, levels have not been shown to affect virility. Because hair loss is progressive and free testosterone declines with age, your hairline may be more indicative of your past than present sex life.

Myth 3: If you’re of a certain ethnic background it increases chances of going bald.

Studies show that men of Greek or Macedonian heritage have the highest percentage of balding men aged 16 to 28.

Prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated as a cause of prostate enlargement. Supports the bladder and increases urine flow.

Myth 4: Baldness can be caused by emotional stress.

Stress has been shown to accelerate baldness in genetically susceptible men.

Myth 5: If you’re intellectual you can become bald more quickly.

Although this is used as a stereotype in movie characters, usually accompanied by glasses, there are just as many real life cases where the opposite is true. There is evidence, though, that testosterone and the ratio of DHT to total testosterone have some influence on intellectual capability and they are also linked to hair health.

Myth 5: Shaving your head (or hair anywhere else) makes it grow back thicker or stronger.

Shaving doesn’t increase the number of healthy hairs on the scalp, and, after the remaining hair has grown a few millimeters, no extra thickness has been proven.

Myth 6: Tight hats cause baldness.

www.oapharma.com/ 1-800-651-3172

While this may be a myth, hats do cause hair breakage, which can begin to look wispy from split ends. Since hats are usually not washed fre-

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Improve kidney, urinary and prostate health naturally

Falling Strands: Hair Loss Help By John Austen

Why are you going bald? There are many myths for possible causes of baldness and some of them may have a degree of truth. Here are a few: Myth 1: You inherit baldness from your mom’s dad.

Myth 2: Bald men are more sexually virile.

Myth 3: If you’re of a certain ethnic background it increases chances of going bald.

Studies show that men of Greek or Macedonian heritage have the highest percentage of balding men aged 16 to 28.

Prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated as a cause of prostate enlargement. Supports the bladder and increases urine flow.

Myth 4: Baldness can be caused by emotional stress.

Stress has been shown to accelerate baldness in genetically susceptible men.

Myth 5: If you’re intellectual you can become bald more quickly.

Myth 5: Shaving your head (or hair anywhere else) makes it grow back thicker or stronger.

Shaving doesn’t increase the number of healthy hairs on the scalp, and, after the remaining hair has grown a few millimeters, no extra thickness has been proven.

Myth 6: Tight hats cause baldness.

www.oapharma.com/ 1-800-651-3172

While this may be a myth, hats do cause hair breakage, which can begin to look wispy from split ends. Since hats are usually not washed fre-

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

photo: Lise gagne

quently, they can also lead to possible pityrosporum ovale contamination in men with oily scalps. The average human head has about 100,000 hair follicles. Each follicle can grow about 20 individual hairs in a person’s lifetime – that’s all. A small bulb at the base of the hair follicle (dermal papilla) is highly sensitive to hormones and other chemicals secreted by the body or ingested from medicine, which impacts hair growth. The genetic predisposition to a receding hairline, most common in men, or hair/ follicle thinning over larger areas of scalp, most common in women, results from hormonal changes caused by an enzyme in the dermal papilla called 5-alphareductase. This enzyme breaks down the hormone testosterone into DHT. Over time, an overabundance of DHT causes the hair follicle to degrade, leading to hair loss. Keep your head – don’t try fad products out of desperation. Although there are many products on the market that claim to miraculously grow hair, herbal helpers have been used for over a thousand years to treat hair loss, and offer a natural and effective approach. They include extracts from fenugreek seeds, saw palmetto berries, pumpkin seeds and burdock root. The most successful are those herbal formulas that can stop the aforementioned enzyme 5-alphareductase. They have the best chance of preventing, slowing down or in some cases, reversing hair loss. Herbal formulas also now often include an extract from flaxseed, as its lignans contain high amounts of a phytoestrogen and is known to help stop the enzyme 5-alphareductase’s activity. Some herbal ingredients also contain compounds that remove excess cholesterol (the building blocks of testosterone) so excess DHT cannot be produced. The B vitamins folate and biotin may help to support the growth of hair. The efficacy of these ingredients is being investigated in human clinical studies. Your average hair loss is 50 to 100 strands a day. It sounds like a lot, but you don’t lose it all at once. Eat well, sleep well, reduce your stress, supplement with nutrients to give your genetics a boost and try natural products with a proven track record to keep your losses to a minimum.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Herbs for Your Heart Heart disease, also called coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of death for men and women in the world. It is caused by atherosclerosis, an accumulation of fatty materials on the inner linings of arteries that restricts blood flow. By Daryl Peterson

ealthy coronary arteries are open, elastic, smooth and slick. The artery walls are flexible and expand to let more blood through when the heart needs to work harder. The disease process is thought to begin with an injury to the linings and walls of the arteries. This injury makes them susceptible to atherosclerosis and to blood clots. Heart disease occurs when the coronary arteries become partially blocked or clogged because of atherosclerosis. This blockage limits the flow of blood through the coronary arteries, which are the major arteries supplying nutrient and oxygen-rich blood to the heart. When bloodflow is limited, chest pain may occur. When the blood flow to the heart is completely cut off, the result is a heart attack because the heart is starved of oxygen. Although we all know that a healthy lifestyle contributes greatly to the strength of our heart, there are also specific herbs that have been used medicinally for hundreds of years in China for the prevention of heart disease and improvement of the cardiovascular system. Notoginseng and salvia are two herbs that have proven effective in eliminating pain and pressure in the chest associated with angina and shortness of breath. They also support the circulatory system and heart muscle health.

Notoginseng

The scientific name for the notoginseng plant is Panax notoginseng. In Latin, the word panax means “cure-all,” and its ginseng family of plants is one of the most famous and frequently used of all herb families. Notoginseng is actually richer in active constituents than either panax or American ginseng, and also contains immune stimulating polysacchaarides. The root of notoginseng is used medicinally, and from it, researchers have isolated chemicals called saponins and flavonoids, substances that are biologically active in the body. In an in-vitro study, scientists at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University also found another of notoginseng’s active ingredients, ginsenosides Rg1. Ginsenosides Rg1 is a potent phytoestrogen, exerting the protective properties that have demonstrated pharmacological effects in the central nervous system, cardiovascular system and endocrine (hormonal) systems. Notoginseng root has been clinically used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. One of China’s most famous herbalists said that the root was “more valuable than gold.” In particular, notoginseng is used as a general tonic for the heart and circulatory system, and for specific problems including coronary heart disease and high cholesterol. Notoginseng is also prescribed by Chinese herbalists to relieve chest pain due to poor circulation in the heart muscle. Notoginseng’s benefits for the heart and circulatory system have also been shown by modern studies. Notoginseng appears to increase blood flow to the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle, and seems to increase the consumption of oxygen by the muscles in the heart. It also has been reported to have positive effects on the blood, lower cholesterol levels and is believed to help dissolve blood clots. These actions have obvious beneficial effects on heart function and blood circulation.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

photo: kanga

Salvia

The scientific name for salvia is Salvia miltrorrhiza. It is sold in herbal markets across China for use in medicinal formulas, particularly as an important circulation stimulant. The medicinal part of this plant is the root. Many active constituents, including tanshinones, tanshinol, salviol and vitamin E, have been isolated and used from the root. Recent scientific research has confirmed the validity of its traditional usage for heart and circulation problems. The tanshinones in salvia have been shown to have a profound effect on coronary circulation, reducing the symptoms of angina and improving heart function. Clinical trials have shown that the whole herb, rather than isolated constituents, is most effective when taken as a preventive measure, rather than as a remedy after a heart attack has taken place. Coronary circulation in particular benefits from the root of the plant, as it opens up the arteries and improves blood flow to the heart. In addition, salvia also relaxes the blood vessels and improves circulation throughout the body. Researchers conclude that it is a safe and effective remedy for many circulation problems.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Pain-Free Aging By Ruza Jelinkova

Pain is a warning signal, a natural body defense relaying that something is out of balance. But pain isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t something that you need to accept.

photo: yvan dub

lmost everyone experiences an occasional twinge of muscle or joint pain after a strenuous day of gardening, an unusually vigorous workout at the gym or another strain on the musculoskeletal system. But some people also suffer from chronic muscle pain, which can result in intolerable suffering, loss of sleep, poor productivity and a reduced quality of life. In fact, one in three people over 50 begin dealing with the effects of joint pain at work and at home, day and night. Deal with it now. Fortunately, many natural therapies are available for muscle pain relief, with choices depending on the conditions that you suffer from and the intensity of the pain. A good session with a massage therapist can greatly help to soothe aching muscles by releasing tension and increasing blood circulation. This also helps to transport nutrients and oxygen to the affected muscles, and flushes away toxic substances. Other very effective therapies include chiropractic, acupuncture and aromatherapy, in combination or on their own. Topical creams and ointments have also gained popularity over the years and have proven to be effective for many conditions such

&OR A STORE NEAREST YOU CONTACT (EDLEY %NTERPRISES ,TD

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as stiff and sore muscles, sprains, backache, tendonitis, arthritis and rheumatism. They contain ingredients to help reduce pain and some also contain essential anti-inflammatories to have a long-term effect. Since topical creams are absorbed through the skin and bypass the gastrointestinal system, they are associated with minimal side effects compared with other over-the-counter oral medications. Lotions and potions for pain. Several ingredients are usually added to topical pain relievers and some have a long history of use. Menthol, for example, is the most typical ingredient that you will find in these products. Menthol is obtained from peppermint oil or the other members of the mint family, and looks like a rock crystal when isolated. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) was used as an herbal medicine by the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. It was also believed that peppermint cleared the mind, reanimated the spirit and stirred the passions. In 1774, Dutch scientist Hieronym David Gaubius separated colourless crystals known as menthol from peppermint oil. When applied to an affected area, menthol rapidly cools tendons and muscles. It causes dilation in the blood vessels that carry blood to the joints, increasing blood flow and reducing swelling. The more blood that reaches an injured area, the more nutrients and oxygen are made available to assist the healing process. Menthol helps to suppress the sensation of mild pain and often helps relieve pain from mild backache or other muscular aches. Eucalyptus oil is another effective topical pain relieving ingredient. The essential oil of eucalyptus is obtained from the leaves and the branches of the eucalyptus tree, Eucalyptus globulus, also known as the fever tree. The medicinal properties of the oil were most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants of Australia, who used the oil as a remedy for skin problems and fevers. Modern herbalists rely on the oil to treat these conditions in addition to muscle and joint pain, as well as colds and other respiratory ailments. Some of the most effective topical pain relieving products include another ingredient called methyl salicylate. Salicylates were first discovered when the observation was made that chewing willow bark could relieve pain and refers to the use of therapeutic bark. Methyl salicylate occurs naturally in numerous plants and trees, and is commonly derived for human use from the twigs and bark of the sweat birch tree (betula lenta) and the eastern teaberry bush (Gaultheria procumbens). Methyl salicylate is also synthetically manufactured from a combination of salicylic acid and menthol. Methyl salicylate is one of the most potent pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, and is very popular for conditions like arthritis, chronic muscle soreness and acute injury pain. Many amateur and professional athletes use methyl salicylate to “warm up” muscles prior to exercise to enhance their performance due to quick muscle recovery, and also use it afterward to lessen post-activity fatigue. Don’t take a shotgun approach to your pain. Remember that it’s a lifestyle change that’s needed – what you eat, how much you exercise, your sleep quality, your stress level and your approach to remedies – that will bring the greatest success in living free from pain. If you’ve tried one or two natural remedies or therapies and they haven’t provided much relief, don’t become disheartened and resort to an over-the-counter oral pain medication. It will simply cover the symptom without relieving the cause while possibly causing another even more serious symptom in future. Try a combination of menthol and eucalyptus oil to provide much needed immediate pain relief and methyl salicylate to reduce inflammation. Pamper the pain. Simply being kind to yourself can help lessen the pain. Besides all the science, giving yourself time to relax, treating yourself to a hot mineral bath, and trying a natural panacea for life’s little aches beats popping pain medication any day. Ruza Jelinkova was educated in the former Czechoslovakia was also a student at Institute of Holistic Nutrition in Toronto. She believes in healthy lifestyle and self improvement and now works for a natural health company that focuses on illness prevention, pain management associated with muscle and joint conditions, and rebuilding well-being.

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Calcium Co-Workers: What You Need to Take with It By Trisha Coleman

alcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, accounting for approximately 1.5 to 2 percent of our body weight. More than 99 percent of total body calcium is stored in bones and teeth; the remaining 1 percent is in blood, muscle and intracellular fluid. Calcium is very important for many life-supporting functions. Its most commonly known function is the development and maintenance of healthy bones, teeth and nails. Our need for calcium is critical during the growth years between infancy and childhood, but it is also important lifelong to keep our bones healthy. Our calcium needs increase as we go through different stages of life. Children, pregnant and lactating women, and men and women over the age of 50 are all people who will have higher calcium requirements. Calcium also plays an important role in the nervous and cardiovascular systems. It is important for proper nerve transmission and muscle contractions, it assists in proper blood coagulation, maintains healthy blood pressure and regulates the heart beat. Calcium supplements, in combination with vitamin D and magnesium, can be helpful in reducing muscle or leg and foot cramps, promote more relaxing sleep, and are helpful to reduce menstrual problems such as cramps, irritability and other PMS symptoms. The maintenance of a balanced blood calcium level is essential to regulate vital biological functions such as nerve and muscle function. If there is not enough calcium in the diet to maintain a sufficient amount of calcium in the blood, the parathyroid glands will be activated. They release more parathyroid hormone (PTH), which will then draw calcium out of the bones in addition to increasing intestinal absorption of available calcium. Calcium, like many other nutrients, is absorbed less effectively as we age. During infancy and childhood, 50 to 70 percent of the calcium ingested may be absorbed, whereas an adult could perhaps use just between 30 to 50 percent of dietary calcium in his or her body. Calcium supplements should be a part of a healthy diet and exercise programme to ensure optimal bone density, which is the amount of bone tissue in a certain volume of bone. Weight bearing exercise maxi-

mizes bone strength and bone density. Weight bearing exercise is the type that causes your bones and muscles to work against gravity while they bear your weight, such as walking, running, dancing, aerobics and skating. Resistance exercises such as weight training are also vital because they help to improve muscle mass and bone strength. Taking a calcium complex that includes magnesium and a variety of other nutrients that assist in its use by the body is important, and may include vitamin D, vitamin K, phosphorus and ipriflavone. An easy to digest, pre-acidified, liquid calcium supplement is the newest form that may increase its absorption, and therefore, its use. Calcium is often found in supplements in the forms of calcium citrate, calcium lactate, calcium gluconate and calcium ascorbate, which are all digestible sources. Calcium citrate does not require strong stomach acid for absorption, making it easily absorbed by most people including the elderly. This is valuable, since as we age our ability to produce stomach acid decreases. Calcium citrate also does not constipate or cause digestive upsets that may be associated with other sources. Magnesium helps with calcium absorption and regulates calcium transport within the body. The two minerals should be ingested in tandem and it is believed the optimal ratio of calcium to magnesium is 2:1. Magnesium is needed for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, and works with calcium to maintain muscle and nerve function, keep heart rhythm steady, support the immune system and keep bones strong. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure and is involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. In addition, magnesium supplementation may improve bone mineral density. Magnesium deficiency may be a risk factor for postmenopausal osteoporosis, perhaps because it alters calcium metabolism and the hormones that regulate calcium. Phosphorus is the second most abundant element in our bodies after calcium, and 85 percent is stored in bones and teeth. Phosphorus is involved in many functions, is found in all cells and is involved in most biochemical reactions. It is essential to energy production, helps kidneys function and acts as a buffer for acid-base balance in

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

the body. It works along with calcium in muscle contraction, including regulating the heartbeat and proper nerve conduction. The ideal balanced dietary phosphorus-calcium ratio is about 1:1, which is important for optimal bone health. Ipriflavone is a flavonoid derived from soy that promotes the incorporation of calcium into bone and has been found to stop the breakdown of bone tissue. Ipriflavone has demonstrated within osteoporosis sufferers to have the ability to stimulate osteoblasts (cells that rebuild new bone tissue), resulting in the production of new bone tissue. Ipriflavone may improve bone density in osteoporosis and studies suggest that it helps to prevent rapid bone loss in postmenopausal women. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin found in bone, cartilage, soft tissue and blood vessels that helps facilitate normal bone growth and development. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin K can not only increase bone mineral density in osteoporosis, but also reduce fracture rates. Vitamin K works synergistically with vitamin D to maintain optimal bone density. Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin. Upon activation in the body, the major function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and help form and maintain strong bones. Vitamin D should be combined with calcium to enable effective absorption of calcium through the intestinal wall, and then into the bone and blood supply. Vitamin D has shown to increase calcium absorption by as much as 30 to 80 percent. The results of some clinical trials suggest that vitamin D supplementation can slow bone density losses or decrease the risk of osteoporotic fracture in individuals who are not getting enough vitamin D from sunshine. It enables calcium absorption into bone cells while preventing calcium loss from the intestines and kidneys. More than 50 percent of people with osteoporosis are deficient in vitamin D. As we age our body’s ability to form vitamin D from sun exposure declines.

Trisha Coleman CHT, RH, is a clinical herbal therapist, writer and lecturer with a herbal practice called Healthy Way Healing in Brandon, MB.

Vegan approved!

Let Nutrition Help ADHD By Vince Ziccarelli

restless child, as you may have experienced, does not pay attention, is frustrated, confused, unable to grasp or understand new concepts and may frequently have temper tantrums. This describes the common characteristics of a child suffering with attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), a very challenging and exhausting condition for both parent and child. When I was a young student, classmates with these traits were simply labelled “deviant trouble makers.” Years ago we didn’t understand this learning disorder. Fortunately, today we are learning much more, with strong evidence suggesting that nutrition may play a key role in its treatment.

Seeking solutions

The symptoms used to classify ADHD include restlessness, inability to focus, mood swings, anxiety, inability to complete tasks and impulsiveness. Although most children have a degree of these traits, the severity determines whether or not they suffer from the disorder. ADHD accounts for 30 to 50 percent of mental health services for children. Statistics show that 5 to 10 percent of North American children suffer from ADHD, with close to half of them also having learning disabilities. The number of children diagnosed with ADHD is rising, as is the increasing use of prescription medications such as Ritalin to manage it. This is disheartening, given that Ritalin may have marked side effects with potential for addictive abuse.

Nutrients may ease restlessness

Advancing nutritional science shows a promising prognosis for ADHD. Studies demonstrate that certain nutrients are especially critical for cognitive and emotional health. They include dietary zinc, B vitamins, iron, chromium and essential omega-3 fats. Food intolerances or allergies are commonly associated with learning and behavioural disorders. The following discussion will present practical dietary strategies that will help support your child’s nutritional requirements and foster a stronger foundation for growth and development.

The first step

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Children require healthy food given their rapid growth cycles. Whole foods are the key to protect from disease and support growth, healthy weight, immune function, brain function and emotional stability. Unrefined grains, fresh vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, dairy and lean sources of protein provide different nutrients required for health. A registered dietitian or nutritionist can assess your child’s nutritional status and find creative strategies to get kids to enjoy eating balanced meals. The more kids are exposed to healthy foods in a fun, imaginative way, the more likely that they will eat them.

The second step

Food intolerances or sensitivities are very common, with symptoms ranging from digestive complaints and hives to anxiety. Food allergies are more severe immediate immune responses, such as anaphylactic shock, that can be effectively diagnosed by an allergist. Food intolerances do not involve the immune system and are difficult to diagnose with conventional testing. Children with ADHD may be experiencing symptoms of food

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

www.vistamagonline.com intolerance. Dietitians witness the profound effects that food intolerances can play on the health of children, including their behaviour and learning. Intolerances are often caused by wheat, dairy, nuts, seafood, eggs and soy products. To identify which foods your child may be reacting to, undertake a careful, systematic food elimination programme under the supervision of a dietitian. It takes diligence and patience to identify food culprits but the benefits can be life changing. A dietitian will develop a plan to ensure that appropriate food substitutes support complete nutrition, since improper food eliminations can put your child at risk for malnutrition.

Emphasize brain-critical nutrients

Include a variety of foods rich in zinc, B vitamins, iron, antioxidants, probiotics, protein and omega-3 essential fatty acids, which have been found to be of particular benefit to learning and emotions. The omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) nourish our central nervous system. They increase cell membrane fluidity and help the cells of the nervous system to communicate better, which assists memory, emotions and learning. Studies show that boys with ADHD have significantly lower levels of these fats, with those children having the lowest levels exhibiting the strongest symptoms. Excellent sources include cold water fish, flaxseeds and walnuts. Three servings of fatty fish weekly (the best source since it contains the most active form), a handful of walnuts or a tablespoon of ground flaxseed daily will do. The B vitamins are required for the enzymatic conversion of carbohydrates into energy, and to make brain chemicals such as serotonin. The brain requires cellular energy and brain chemicals to support mood, concentration and learning. Deficiencies in B vitamins are known to affect brain and emotional health. Whole grains, lean meat, fish and poultry provide the body with B vitamins. Dietary iron is very important for cellular energy, and integral to hemoglobin. Growing children are especially prone to low iron, which will affect cellular energy, promoting fatigue, lethargy, depression and poor concentration. Lean meats, poultry, whole grains, and dark green vegetables are good sources of iron. Mix them with fruit and other vitamin C-rich foods to improve the body’s ability to use iron. Probiotics, such as lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidum, are important because “friendly” bacteria are crucial for a healthy digestive tract. Sources of friendly bacteria include kefir, yogurt, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut, and should be consumed regularly. Excellent probiotic supplements are also available; if your child is sensitive to dairy, ask for dairy-free probiotic supplements.

Supplements offer support

A study comparing Ritalin verses supplements showed that a food-based supplement was just as effective as Ritalin for improving attention and self control in a group of 20 children with ADHD. The supplement contained vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fats, phospholipids and probiotics. The food supplement was designed to reduce food sensitivities and provide nutrients required to normalize brain chemicals.

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Supplements that complement

Choose supplements that complement your child’s needs. If they’re intolerant to dairy and fish, then a quality calcium supplement with vitamin D is warranted to ensure adequate calcium intake. A low allergy-potential powder such as rice protein will help improve protein intake. A balanced plant oil with omega-3 fats is best to attain benefits while avoiding intolerances to fish. ADHD is among many health conditions that may be successfully managed with sensible use of nutrition and supplements. Ask a dietitian to help you make the most informed choices for your child’s unique nutritional needs. References available from VISTA. Vincent Ziccarelli, MSc, RD, FICN, is a fellow of the International College of Nutrition and a holistic nutritionist. Vincent has had several years of experience working within research, development and education. He has a private practice in Vancouver called Nutrition Wellness Center, and may be reached at www.nutritionwellness.ca

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WELCOME TO FEELING GREAT

Computer Vision Syndrome By Shuchi Kalra

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s a practising optometrist, I often come across people who have no apparent eye problems but complain about headaches, fatigue, eyestrain and dry eyes. What all of these people have in common is long hours of work in front of a computer. Computer related eye problems are recognized as a separate entity within eye pathologies called “computer vision syndrome” or CVS. In this era of technology, a life without a computer is simply unimaginable for most of us. While some people just check their email occasionally, there are others for whom their lives and professions depend on the computer. Young children are often hooked on the novelty of online games and teenagers are addicted to social networking sites. The IT industry is booming and everything that was once manual is now computerized. As much as it makes our lives easier, computers come with their own set of health hazards. CVS is a serious ailment affecting thousands of computer users without them being aware of it. Common symptoms such as eye-strain, headache, neck and back pain, dry eyes and blurred vision characterize the syndrome and can cause immense discomfort if not checked in time. More than a medical treatment, it is work place ergonomics and working habits that need to be addressed. When we work on a computer screen, our eyes and muscles undergo some physical and physiological changes. Our blinking rate – a mechanism used to keep the eyes evenly moist – is drastically reduced because we are so engrossed in the screen and tend to “forget” to blink. This causes the tear film on our eyes to break and dry up sooner and induce a burning and gritty sensation eventually leading to red swollen eyes. Since the distance between our eyes and the computer screen is usually very short, our eyes have to exert extra effort and accommodate in order to focus on the object on the screen. Doing this for a prolonged period without a break leads to fatigue, headache and eyestrain. Our workplace ergonomics also determine our posture and the onset of related problems like spondylitis and back pain. An uncomfortable chair or a low table can cause us to slouch and bend forward, affecting the health of the

photo: Lise Gange

backbone. One might wonder why we can read a book for hours and never get tired, but can’t do the same while reading on a computer. What’s so different about a computer screen? First, the distance at which we read a book is much less than the distance at which we place our computer screen. Second, the image on a monitor is made up of many pixels that are brightest in the centre and fade towards the periphery, whereas the black pigment of print on paper offers a uniform black-and-white contrast which our brain finds easier to intercept. All of the problems stemming from these mechanisms are collectively termed “computer vision syndrome”. As a result, people experience chronic eyestrain, occasional blurring of vision, dryness or burning sensation in the eyes, increased sensitivity to light, head-aches, and neck, shoulder or back pain. Most computer users face one or more of these problems to a greater or lesser degree. Unfortunately, these are often dismissed as “stress-related” or “lack of sleep.” Though CVS is not a disease per se, it is definitely a cause of concern because of its growing prevalence. Ocular discomfort and other symptoms have a direct impact on an individual’s performance and personal well-being, which affects his/her efficiency at work. Although CVS is becoming much more prevalent, especially among the youth and the middle-aged, there are a few strategies that can be employed to ensure good ocular health. • Make sure your workstation is comfortable by choosing a chair that adequately supports

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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your spine and is adjusted to your height so that your feet comfortably rest flat on the floor. An awkward height of either the chair or the table can cause undue strain on your neck, backbone and eyes. • If your child is a “screen baby,” ensure that computer time is limited to a couple of hours since too much muscle work during the growing period can interfere with the normal growth and development of your child’s visual system. • The computer screen should be placed at a level low enough that the eyes are partially covered by your eyelids while you work and do not become too dry. Adjust the height so that what you are focusing on at the screen is at a slightly lower level than your eyes while you sit upright and erect. • Time your breaks at regular intervals and spend 10 to 15 minutes sitting with your eyes closed or/ and focusing on a distant object like a tree outside your window. This exercise helps “stretch” your eye muscles and reduces the chances of strain. Use an alarm clock or a reminder on your computer that will nudge you to take a break every hour or so. • Avoid placing your computer at a place where it can reflect too much light, such as beside a window or opposite a lamp. Use anti-reflection coatings on your screen to minimize glare. Research has established that the symptoms of CVS were significantly reduced in subjects who used anti-reflection coatings on their glasses as well. • Tilt your screen to a slightly downward angle so that it does not reflect light directly into your eyes. You will be amazed how effective this seemingly simple technique turns out to be! • Another simple but helpful tip is to use “reverse contrast” on your screen. White letters on a black background reduce the glare from a screen and provide a better contrast. Always adjust the font size to a comfortable and adequate level so that you don’t have to squint while reading. • Keep a pack of preservative-free lubricating drops handy to use at bedtime and at your workplace to refresh eyes. • For those over 40, it is important to be wearing the right correction lenses. Talk to your eye care practitioner about your occupational demands and ask for an “intermediate” distance correction along with your reading glasses. Special “computer glasses” are now available that can be custom-made for your needs. Computer vision syndrome is just another addition to a long list of lifestyle induced ailments, except that its solution is relatively simple. Paying attention to any symptoms you may have and making simple adjustments is worth the trouble if it promises better health and comfort for your eyes and back. Remember, your health always comes first! Shuchi Kalra worked as a staff optometrist at LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, and did her internship project on the condition before taking up writing full time. Her articles have been published in Parent and Child, Women’s Era, Savvy Women Magazine, and School Planet. She also writes content for websites and portals. For more information, visit www.shuchikarla.com.

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VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Collagen Helps to Build a Younger Body We all know that the best way to fend off Father Time is to use Mother Nature to your advantage. By Alain Prud’homme

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nti-aging, meaning to consciously delay the effects of time to create a vital, youthful body and mind, is about nurturing what is inside to produce both inward and outward effects. Some people think that the body begins to age when you start to feel your age – typically between age 40 and 60 – but it actually starts to break down much earlier than that. Your body ages because changes occur both in individual cells and in whole organs that result in their lesser and slower functioning. Eventually cells die as a normal part of the body’s processes, either because they don’t divide like they should or they’re damaged by harmful substances in the environment or within the body such as free radicals. The determining factors of when you begin to feel your age, of course, depend on everything from your physical fitness level to genetics. But to look at it in another way, whether the body can efficiently rebuild and repair itself and create new cells is dependent upon its ability to convert one body resource into another. This is a process of protein synthesis – building different types of protein that make up cells. This process requires collagen, which is a construction worker in the body’s building – and rebuilding – project. Collagen is a family of proteins that play a

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www.vistamagonline.com critical role in tissue architecture, tissue strength and cell to cell relationships. Collagen is found literally everywhere in the body – in skin, blood vessels, joints, muscles, hair, bone and ligament – and is the major component of all connective tissue. Collagen provides the structure to your body, forms the cables that strengthen your tendons, and makes up the sheets that support your skin and internal organs. Bones and teeth are formed when the body adds other minerals to collagen. Collagen fibres are woven together like pieces of fabric to form a network in which new cells grow and reproduce. In other words, collagen is both the material and the glue that holds your body together. Any time the body needs to build new cells, such as in the healing process, collagen plays the central role. Your body manufactures its own collagen every single day, but since production diminishes with age, the available supply of collagen quickly becomes less than enough. As production of collagen slows and the amount diminishes when you age, both the resource that your cells need and the catalyst to help build tissue is reduced. Deterioration of various body parts gradually follows. Things you have always done, like running or jumping, suddenly seem more painful. Injuries that have never proven serious before begin to hurt. Joint pain becomes more problematic. With continued aging, your connective tissues and muscles break down due to collagen deficiency and damage. As a result, you experience a weakening of your skeletal structure. On the outside of the body, the slowing of the skin’s production of collagen becomes increasingly more pronounced, and wrinkles begin as your healthful radiance vanishes. You develop ridges, furrows and brown spots, and your skin looses elasticity and moisture. Wrinkles and joint pain are only part of the result, of course, since collagen affects all of your cells. Since health begins inside the body, the secret of a young and healthy appearance is to act on the source of the degeneracy. To maintain healthy collagen, first consider what you shouldn’t be doing in your day to day activities. Many lifestyle factors such as smoking,

drinking alcohol, coffee, stress and excessive physical training can harm and also reduce your body’s collagen production. Infections, pollution, medications and drugs deplete the body of collagen. “Sugar is responsible for nearly half of all skin aging because it inhibits the effectiveness of collagen within your skin cells,” says Nicholas Perricone, MD, professor at the College of Human Medicine at Michigan State University and author of The Wrinkle Cure. After being attacked by sugar and binding to it, collagen fibres become cross-linked and stick to each other, resulting in sagging, wrinkled skin and age spots.

What should you be doing?

Nutrients can enhance the rebuilding or the healing process of your body. There are many different nutrients that you can obtain in foods and supplements to aid collagen. Collagen fibres have large amounts of two amino acids called hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline. These two amino acids seem to be important for formation of collagen and provide strength and flexibility. It is logical to eat foods high in lysine and proline to support collagen. Animal foods are the primary source of both amino acids; egg whites and wheat germ are good vegetarian sources of proline, and low-fat dairy products, fish and legumes are significant sources of lysine. Vitamin C is required to change proline into hydroxyproline and lysine into hydroxylysine, their collagen forms. Garlic and two sulphur-containing nutrients, taurine and lipoid acid, may have the ability to support damaged collagen fibres. Phytonutrients are important in a collagen-building. Catechins found in green tea have shown to help prevent breakdown of collagen, and anthocyanidins found in cherries, blueberries and blackberries help collagen fibres link together to strengthen them. To rejuvenate and revitalize your body, consider what you’re giving to its collagen construction crew to help rebuild every cell.

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Nature’s Stress Soother By Mark Schneider

tress is an inevitable part of life, and for many people it seems impossible to manage. For the health-conscious among us, it often feels like the hardest challenge to overcome. After all, we can take charge of our health by eating right, exercising and making other good lifestyle choices, but the amount of stress that we are confronted with in our everyday lives seems to be less within our control. But even if we can’t erase stressful situations from our lives, we can give our bodies the tools to defend themselves from the damaging effects of stress. In addition to relaxation techniques and taking vacations, herbal remedies are natural stress-busters that can help us cope during the most difficult times with no side effects. One tool we have at our disposal for meeting this challenge is called holy basil, a little-known herb with big anti-stress benefits. Known as “tulsi,” meaning “the incomparable one” in Ayurvedic medicine, holy basil is very effective at modulating both the body’s physical and psychological response to stress. Most important is its ability to normalize the hormone called cortisol, which is the chief culprit when it comes to stress-related illnesses. It is important to understand how stress affects us physiologically. When we’re under stress, the body’s first response is called the “alarm” re-

action, where the stress hormones epinephrine, norepinephrine and cortisol are produced and the “sympathetic” branch of the autonomic nervous system, which creates automatic involuntary responses, revs up. This involuntary fight-or-flight response is a product of evolution, and serves us well in dangerous situations by readying us for physical threats where our survival is at stake. Our bodies have not, however, adapted this response well to modern-day stressors of a more mental and emotional nature. The result is typically an overproduction of stress hormones in the body, with excess cortisol being of particular concern. Cortisol functions to increase blood sugar and maintain adequate blood pressure in times of stress. Blood sugar rises to provide more fuel for energy, and our heart rate and blood pressure soar to increase the flow of blood to the brain for heightened awareness. Digestion is de-prioritized as blood travels away from the gastrointestinal tract to the large muscles of the arms and legs to provide more strength for combat or speed for getting away from potential danger. The problem is that everyday, non-life threatening situations also often trigger this stress response, which is both unnecessary and inappropriate. Today’s fast-paced society creates an environment where most of us are

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in a chronically stressed state and are, as a result, producing excess cortisol. This is made worse by smoking, coffee and alcohol consumption, lack of exercise and insufficient sleep-habits that often accompany stress-filled lives. When cortisol is continually elevated in the body it can lead to high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, depression, frustration, anger, tension, thinning of bones and a weakened immune system. The impact that natural remedies have on cortisol is what makes them so valuable. Holy basil, for example, modulates the amount of cortisol released during stress, which protects the body by preventing a full-blown stress response. The herb also helps to normalize blood sugar, because blood glucose levels correspond to cortisol levels. Chronically high glucose levels increase the risk of developing not only type 2 diabetes but also obesity, since excess glucose may be stored as fat, particularly around the waistline. High glucose levels also cause inflammation, which scientists have found plays a key role in the development of heart disease and cancer. In addition to its cortisol-lowering abilities, holy basil also contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties and a rich supply of antioxidants for protecting against inflammation-related free radicals. Holy basil products offer stress protection that can positively affect your entire life. The herb holy basil also helps to relieve anxiety and depression, which can accompany stress. Holy basil demonstrates a calming and uplifting effect on your mental health, which can dramatically alleviate the impact of stress on your body. When choosing holy basil, look for Ocimum sanctum, the kind proven through extensive studies in India. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;supercriticalâ&#x20AC;? extraction process yields a highly concentrated herbal extract of the highest purity and potency without the use of chemical solvents.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Inside Pain:

What to Do When it Hurts By Michelle Kwon

Tylenol for headaches, Motrin for sore muscles, Advil for arthritic joints – most of us don’t have time to deal with the pain that we suffer so we pop a pill to cover the symptoms and get on with our day.

s we get older, it’s no surprise that one in six of us is dealing with pain at any given moment. But taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) causes side effects that may be worse than the pain itself. The Physicians’ Desk Reference lists over 100 side effects for each NSAID, including gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity – which includes gas, heartburn, stomach ache, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, hemorrhage, ulcer perforation, kidney failure – which is a major cause of hospital visits and death. NSAID-related GI complications rank 15th among the most common causes of death in the US. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, if you take more than one acetaminophen pill per day, or 1,000 over the course of your lifetime, you have double the odds of end-stage renal disease (1994, vol. 331, no. 25, p.1675). These risks have sent many looking for relief from safer alternatives. Pain relief without side effects. Topical pain relief creams have become very popular because they go right where it hurts, not even touching your sensitive tummy, and have no negative side effects. Many are designed to reduce inflammation, promote blood circulation, help damaged cells recover and act as a natural analgesic to relieve pain. These herbal ointments are used for relief of pain from arthritis, neuralgia (nerve pain), gout, musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, backaches and sprains. Active compounds in these creams are combined with “carriers” to pass the skin barrier, targeting deep into the pain area. Here are a few herbal ingredients that may be included: • Menthol, from mint oil, has local anesthetic and counter irritant qualities. It’s used to relieve sore throats but has also been proven to relieve many types of muscle and joint aches and pains. • Arnica is also called “tumbler’s cure all,” reflecting its common medicinal use to heal bruises, sprains and sore muscles. It’s an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic, used in homeopathic medicine for centuries. • Boswellia is a gum from a tree used in Ayurvedic medicine. Boswellia is known to interfere with enzymes that contribute to inflammation including COX-2 (cycloxygenase-2), therefore reducing it. • Capsaicin is from cayenne pepper and when applied topically it will first activate pain nerves, and then render them unresponsive. It depletes the body compound that transmits pain signals, creating analgesia. • Devils claw, a plant native to the Kalahari Desert, is commonly used in Europe for pain relief. The herb acts as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory. • Ginger has been shown to inhibit COX-2 enzyme – the same enzyme that drugs inhibit to treat pain and inflammation. It is analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, and reduces fever. • White willow bark has one of the longest historical uses in Western medicine for pain relief, and it’s used to create aspirin. It has natural analgesic, anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing properties. Eat to eliminate pain. Whether you’re suffering from arthritis or muscle injury, eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can help ease pain. Since tendons, ligaments, bones and muscles are made up of collagen, eating whole grains and brightly coloured fruits and vegetables to slow the breakdown of collagen and enhance its rebuilding is vital. Avoid white flour, sugar, caffeine and alcohol, which set off oxidation and inflammation in the body. Eat omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseed to decrease inflammation. Avoid trans fats in processed and fried foods and saturated fats in red meat and dairy products, which boost inflammatory cytokines. Move more, stress less. It might be difficult to be active when you’re in pain, but exercise helps control inflammation and pain, and also delivers nutrients to your tissues and rids them of debris. Start slowly with cycling or walking. Relieve stress through meditation and yoga. When you’re stressed, your body produces cortisol, which can lead to more inflammation. Take a mineral bath, which can ease a variety of pains, aid nerve impulses and moderate mood.

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Supreme Collagen by Medelys This unique formula of Supreme Collagen by Medelys contains a high concentration of hydrolysed collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. This mixing gives efficient synergy for promoting the molecular regeneration of all connective tissues in the body. Helps relieve arthritic and rheumatic pain, rebuild joint cartilage, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Improves skin, hair and nails. Distributed by Monnol, 1-800-463-0420, www.monnol.com

Primadophilus® Optima Primadophilus® Optima is the most complete and potent probiotic with 14 probiotic strains and over 35 billion CFUs per capsule. Primadophilus’ True Potency Guarantee means the dosage on the package is guaranteed until the date the product expires. Convenient once-daily dosage. Complete with Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria species. naturesway.com 800-463-8412

Santevia™ Water System The Santevia™ Water System revolutionizes tap water, creating pure, fresh tasting water that is healthier for you and more cost effective than bottled water. Using an eight stage filtration and re-mineralization system, the Santevia™ Water System cleans, mineralizes and invigorates your water while adjusting the pH level to mildly alkaline. Add a Santevia™ stainless steel water bottle and you have an environmentally friendly Santevia™ System that will keep you hydrated throughout your entire day. Visit www.santevia.com. Healthier Humans – One drop at time!

These products have been selected by the VISTA staff. This is not paid advertising. If you have a product you would like considered for “Editor Selects,” please contact VISTA Magazine at (877) 905-7771 or (604) 591-9991, or by e-mail at vistamag@shaw.ca.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Love and Herpes By Bruce Schennum

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he difference between love and herpes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the saying goes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is that herpes lasts forever. Why is herpes so difficult to cure? Between outbreaks, the herpes virus retreats into nerve cells and hides. Once in hiding, the virus is invulnerable to treatment. New research from Duke University suggests that a gene (latency associated transcript or LAT) controls the virusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability to lie dormant in nerve cells. Scientists are seeking techniques to â&#x20AC;&#x153;wake upâ&#x20AC;? the herpes virus. Once it is flushed out of hiding, it can be destroyed by anti-viral drugs.

Who has herpes?

Most adults are infected with at least one form of herpes. According to blood tests, more than 80 percent of adults test sero-positive for herpes simplex virus 1 (the virus that causes cold sores), and 40 percent for HSV2 (genital herpes). North Americans also generally test positive for the herpes zoster virus, which can cause shingles if activated. Although the number of people infected with the herpes virus continues to increase, genital herpes has been around for a long time. According to Dr. W. Benson Harer Jr, an OB/GYN and an amateur Egyptologist, there is an ancient papyrus text that describes a woman whose persistent sores were very painful, and this doctor states that the description constituted a very good indication of genital herpes.

What is herpes?

Although many think of herpes as a skin infection, it is actually an inflammation of the sensory nerves. HSV-1 (herpes simplex 1, usually symptomatic as cold sores) and HSV-2 (symptomatic as genital herpes) are transmitted by contact â&#x20AC;&#x201C; usually kissing or sexual contact. They tend to occur orally or genitally because our skin provides sufficient protection against transmission except on very thin and sensitive areas like lips and genitals. Both HSV1 and HSV2 infections often donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reveal symptoms. The CDC estimates that the majority of those infected are unaware that they have the virus. Only about 25 percent of North Americans get cold sores â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fewer than one in three of those who are infected with the HSV1 virus. The statistics on HSV2 are similar.

Modern therapies

Fortunately, safe natural treatments for herpes are now available. One treatment is l-lysine, an amino acid found in protein. In one placebo controlled study published in Cutis by McCune et al (Oct.,1984), a dose of 1248 milligrams per

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day of lysine decreased herpes reoccurrences. In another study published by Thein & Hurt (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol. Dec.,1984), 1000 milligrams of lysine per day decreased both the frequency and severity of outbreaks. The Canadian government recently approved lysine as a treatment for oral herpes at a dosage level of 3 grams a day.

Topical lysine

Lysine can also be applied directly to sores. A new study published in the July 2005 issue of Alternative Medicine Review found that median healing time for cold sores was four days when participants applied a lysine-based ointment. This compares to a median healing time of 10 to 14 days for untreated cold sores. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The lysine ointment showed remarkable efficacy in shortening the duration of cold sores, compared to untreated cold sores,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Singh, co-author of the study.

Prevention and treatment

The first line of defence againstHSV-1 and HSV-2 is prevention. To prevent genital herpes, Health Canada recommends the following precautions: â&#x20AC;˘ Learn about safer sex methods â&#x20AC;˘ Talk to your partner(s) about their STI status and the use of protection. â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid having sex when skin sores are present. â&#x20AC;˘ Use a condom â&#x20AC;˘ If you have had multiple sexual partners, have yourself tested for genital herpes and other STIs. While prevention remains the first line of defence against herpes, the discovery of the gene that allows the virus to hide may lead to other treatment approaches. Once activated, the virus can be destroyed. Until these drug therapies are discovered, however, prevention and natural lysine therapy remain the most effective approaches.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Cancer Hospital Takes Answer? Highest Healing Have You Been Told There Is No Hope? Looking For An Alternative Answer? Thousands have beat the odds using the “Donsbach Protocols” an alternative approach to the treatment of cancer, producing remarkable results in AS LITTLE AS THREE WEEKS! The BioScience Research Institute is a full service hospital specializing in alternative therapies.

Cancer, Arthritis, Lupus, MS, Heart Problems, Lyme, Candidiasis, Hepatitis C, Parkinson’s, Crohn’s, Migraines, Colitis, and many other chronic degenerative diseases.

Call 1-877-226-1395 Visit our website: www.BSRInstitute.com

“Your Partners In Health”

Approach By Sophia Stewart

he boundaries between conventional allopathic medicine and alternative medicine are blurring as forward thinking physicians recognize that the healing process of patients requires both. At a new hospital in Baja, California, physicians push past the usual limitations of standard medical practise to offer complete alternative treatments for chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and cardiovascular disease. For those patients who have been told that there is no hope, for those who are simply looking for answers or an alternative to suggested treatments, and for those who want to feel that truly “everything is being done,” the future lies in these full service hospitals. Dr. Kurt Donsbach, a long-time alternative medicine practitioner, announced that a new 21storey hospital has allocated several floors to alternative medicine. Dr. Jose Hernandez Fujuyaki, an internationally recognized cardiologist and owner of the new hospital, requested Dr. Donsbach’s assistance in creating the new division. The hospital, already considered to be one of the most advanced centres for diagnostic and medical treatments, named this alternative medicine division the BioScience Research Institute. Dr. Donsbach has introduced state-of-the-art alternative treatments like a hyperbaric chamber, hyperthermia equipment, sonodynamic therapy using pulsed electromagnetic frequencies, and highly effective nutraceutical intravenous procedures. There is a complete blood testing laboratory, and a diagnostic 64 slice CT scanner, one of only 12 units in North America. Since the hospital’s mandate focuses on a whole body approach, it also includes a large five-physician dental suite and a complete opthamology department with surgery, in addition to radiology, urology, pediatrics, obstetrics, and the largest cardiology department in the region. Here, there is complete continuity and followthrough as patients are screened by various specialists so that impeccable records of progress can be noted. In this way, research papers can also be written documenting the results of all approaches, both separately and in combination. “This is the greatest step forward in the history of alternative medicine”, states Dr. Donsbach. The most critical focus will be on cancer, for which Dr. Donsbach claims that his treatments have offered a success rate unknown to conventional doctors. (Patients have travelled from around the world to be treated at his facility in the past 30 years.) He says that his protocols were developed in response to the need for a different approach — independent studies have documented that the “cure rate” of cancer in 2008 is no better than in 1950 when statistics were first kept. Donsbach admits, “If you find you are on the wrong road to your destination, then you must change course. Cancer research has focused on chemotherapy, radiation and surgery for 75 years without adequate results. We keep launching new chemotherapy drugs and making better radiation devices but are not curing cancer. Isn’t it time to attack this problem from another viewpoint? The people in control of this industry have instead made it illegal to try another approach, thus stifling the entrepreneurial spirit where, historically, most real discoveries have been made.” The BioScience Research Institute provides all conventional treatments for cancer in addition to clinically proven alternatives. These include insulin potentiated therapy and nutrient therapy such as megadoses of vitamin C, absorbable forms of resveratrol, curcumin, glutathione and CoQ-10, and natural pain control that rivals morphine for effectiveness without side effects. “Patients are treated with comparatively non-invasive means that help restore the body’s integrity while making it difficult for the cancer cells to survive,” Donsbach concludes.

For more information, contact Excel Hospital’s BioScience Research Institute at 1-877-226-1395 or www.BSRInstitute.com

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Are You Nourishing Your Pet? By Franco Cavaleri

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Supplements designed for humans are not the best fit for dogs and cats. Although a humanintended supplement can deliver immediate health benefits in these animals, the long-term effect will be an imbalance in the other direction. To improve your pet’s health and preserve their quality of life, give them a fatty acid complex supplement that contains EFAs for animals and omega-3 conditionally essential fats in the proper proportion. This will help reset the metabolism and emotional and cognitive balance quickly and safely. Add a vitamin and mineral supplement specifically designed for pets to assist the body in making use of these critical EFAs within the cells. Your pet’s health is in your hands. Give them optimal, biologically active nutrition every day for a beautifully lustrous coat, a new spring in their stride, emotional stability and heightened intellectual capacity. In just one week, you’ll notice a difference.

photo: phft ltd.

Franco Cavaleri, B.Sc. is a nutritional biochemist. References and further information for this topic are detailed in Franco Cavaleri’s national bestselling guide Potential Within: A Guide to Nutritional Empowerment. Trademarks of BiologicVET, © 2008 Biologic Nutritional Research Inc.

eeding is not the same as nourishing. Most of us feed our dogs and cats a dry kibble diet, but this highly processed food cannot meet their nutritional needs. Canned wet foods and dry bagged kibble are designed for our own convenience, not the well-being of our pets. These foods are damaged building blocks that form the basis of a pet’s body and metabolism, making them vulnerable to immune system deficiency and cognitive and emotional instability. Nourishing your cat or dog with fresh, active nutrition that includes whole natural foods will set the foundation for a long, healthy life. Fatty acids are essential for your pet In addition to all of the vitamins, minerals, protein and fibre that our pet gets from whole food, they need fat, just like we do. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are healthy fats that are critical for every cell in the body, letting nutrients in and toxins out. Polyunsaturated fats are also required for hormonal health and general metabolic wellness. Unfortunately, these delicate fats are easily destroyed during processing and storage, and as a result, pet food manufacturers are beginning to fortify their foods, and adding polyunsaturated fats back in. But these fats are so vulnerable that they oxidize and become rancid long before your precious pet can consume the benefit. It is simply not possible for dry, processed foods to deliver live, biologically active fats. They need a fresh daily supply Essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 are called essential because the human body cannot manufacture them, and we must get them through our diet every day. Animals, however, have different nutritional requirements. Only omega-6 is essential for dogs; if they have enough omega-6 linoleic acid, their bodies can make omega-3 and all the other fats they need. Cats, on the other hand, require two EFAs: linoleic acid and arachidonic acid, which is also an omega-6 fat. Some omega-3 fatty acids are considered “conditionally essential” for dogs and cats because animals may require more if their metabolism is out of balance. For example, research shows that deficiency of the omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can result in decreased cognitive and emotional development and limited life. Another specialized omega-3 is eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which helps to control inflammation and cardiovascular health. In order for dogs and cats to make use of EFAs within their cells, they also need vitamins and minerals every day in the right proportions. Vitamins and minerals act as cofactors, or helpers, for enzyme function, guiding EFAs down the right metabolic path.

TURN YOUR PETS' DREAM INTO REALITY. SUPPLEMENTS FORMULATED FOR PETS. Supplements designed for humans are not the best fit for dogs or cats. Although a human-intended supplement can deliver immediate health benefits in these animals, the long-term effect will be an imbalance in the other direction. Give your pet biologically active nutrients that will show up as a beautifully lustrous coat, a new spring in their stride, emotional stability, and heightened intellectual capacity. You’ll know for sure you did the right thing. OPTIMAL NUTRITIONAL FOUNDATION PROGRAM. BioFATS: A fatty acid complex composed of cold-pressed organic flaxseed and olive oils carefully combined with an accurate blend of cold water fish oils rich in DHA and EPA — plus phosphatidylcholine. BioVITES: A comprehensive mix of the right essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes to escort and protect the fats.

1.877.560.8440 . NUTRITION FOR DOGS & CATS . www.biologicVET.net

Just for You Genaol

Cardioflex Q10

This high quality product is a topical gel with added Genacol® microbeads designed to relieve local muscular, rheumatic and arthritic pains. These microbeads are essential and in large part responsible for the excellent results of the product. Here is why: Due to the bio activity of collagen, our laboratory concentrated on developing a new technology able to adequately isolate the Genacol® in order to maximize its bioactivity only when applied. This is how we reached our goal by inserting Genacol® inside the microbeads.

Cardioflex Q10 is based on the unified theory of heart disease by two-time Nobel Prize recipient Linus Pauling PhD and his associate Mathias Rath. Simply put, they found that the plaqueing of arteries was caused by a nutrient deficiency that can be easily reversed. Cardioflex Q10 helps the body repair damaged arteries and dissolve cholesterol plaques. This process leaves you with strong elastic arteries and normalized cholesterol and blood pressure numbers. For more detailed info on the unified theory visit www.innotechnutrition.com/home/unified_theory or call 1-866-875-5022.

Facts About Epican Forte Extensive research conducted at Dr. Rath’s Research Institute in Cellular Medicine has proved that team work (synergy) of specific cellular nutrients like Vitamin C, L-Lysine, LProline, EGCG (antioxidant compound of green tea) and other nutrients has a powerful effect on maintaining a healthy body. Together, these nutrients can enhance the body’s natural defense process, strengthen the integrity of connective tissue, help in controlling and blocking abnormal cells from spreading.Ecomax Nutrition. 1800-668-4559 * 514-344-7008 * ecomaxah@bellnet.ca

New Umcka Cold Care Hot Drinks & Chewables Feel better faster! Clinically proven Umcka shortens the duration and reduces the severity of the common cold, throat, sinus and bronchial irritations. Umcka is a doctor recommended product in Europe. Now available in new formats: tasty chewables (cherry and mint-menthol and soothing hot drinks (lemon and cherry mint). visit www.naturesway.com for more information.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Finally Finding Relief

from Arthritis

Arthritis?

….meet your new best friend

By Dr. Henry Cheng

am a medical doctor and have practised family medicine and radiology for 12 years, and I have also trained in herbal, homeopathic and naturopathic medicine. In treating patients with arthritis I have used several different therapies that have proven effective to not only combat the pain associated with the disease, but also the restriction of movement. I will outline these treatments here. The green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) from New Zealand has proven effective in my experience and remains one of the most time-honoured natural arthritis remedies. The flesh of the mussel is made from nine different glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and in the past 20 years, I have found that it is more effective than a glucosamine or a chondroitin supplement alone. These two supplements, of course, are often used for arthritic symptoms. In herbal medicine we believe that the adjunct effect of nine different ingredients in small amounts is more powerful than a large amount of one single ingredient. The first generation of mussel supplements was made by dry freezing and lyophilizing the flesh of the mussel and was marketed under the name of Perna Caps by VetriScience. These are still highly in demand. The “second generation” that is now available in Canada is called Maori Miracle and uses an extract from the New Zealand Perna mussel called GlycoMarine that has anti-inflammatory, Cox-2 inhibitory, chondroprotective and lubricative properties. As a result, it also improves joint structure and mobility in addition to its pain killing benefits. Contrary to pharmaceutical drugs, it actually promotes gastro-intestinal

mucosal integrity, meaning that it doesn’t cause stomach distress but actually aids the digestive tract. The glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid contents in the blend I use are reinforced by collagen type II (patented as Kolla2), which is refined from the cartilage of chicken sternum. Kolla2 repairs cartilage and lubricates the joint. Another component in the Maori Miracle blend is a fatty acid ester called cetyl-myristoleate, patented as Myristin. This is not only a joint lubricant but also an immune modulator, so it is also effective for rheumatoid arthritis which is an auto-immune disease. The fatty acid ester, Myristin, also mediates histamine and leukotrene response and therefore it controls the damage caused by inflammation. The fourth component in Maori Miracle is a popular herbal painkilling and anti-inflammatory agent called salicin, extracted from white willow bark. These four components form a strong team in the fight against arthritis. The only contraindications, or reasons that it may not be appropriate for some people, are those with allergies to shellfish and/ or aspirin. If you want to make this combination even stronger, the two elements you can add are MSM and antioxidants. Many successful formulas are made of these three classical ingredients: glucosamine, MSM and antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce the MSM into active sulfonyl groups, which in turn activate the glycosaminoglycan pathway in lubricating and repairing the joint. These events are being used in many successful remedies such as Recovery. What is missing in Recovery, however, is a direct painkiller. So if you compare the formula of Maori Miracle with that of Recovery, you will find that the two products are in fact complementary to each other. In case all of the above remedies and supplements still do not give you enough relief from your suffering, you can add a catalyst that activates both the healing process and the anti-inflammatory effect. This would be either in the form of an enzyme or a homeopathic medicine that can be recommended by a practitioner. Dr. Henry Cheng is a medical graduate of the University of London, England, with a post-graduate degree in diagnostic radiology and is a certified natural products advisor. He also completed a two year course in complementary medicine with Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. He has practised family medicine, radiology, herbal medicine and homeopathic medicine.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Arthritis & Joint Care Product in Canada With

·GlycoMarine™ ·Kolla2® ·Myristin® ·& Hyaluronic Acid

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The Unsung Vitamin By Michelle Kwon

e all know that calcium is important to build strong bones. Calcium is actually a vital nutrient used by every cell in our bodies, and we couldn’t survive without it. But without vitamin K, our bodies cannot use calcium! So why don’t we hear more about this unsung vitamin? Clinical studies have shown that vitamin K is critical in supporting bones because it activates a special protein called osteocalcin that is necessary for calcium to build healthy bone tissue. Vitamin K accumulates in the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas and kidneys in minute amounts, but is required daily and has broader health applications than scientists ever imagined. The role of vitamin K has, for the past decade, been linked to two of the most important health issues we face: osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that natural vitamin K is essential for our arteries, veins and heart, and actually stops calcium from accumulating in the arteries (a build-up of calcium contributes to heart disease). Inadequate metabolism of calcium can result in both arterial calcification, which is a build-up of calcium similar to arteriosclerosis, and osteoporosis, which is a breakdown of the bone. How can calcium build up too much so it gets dangerously deposited and also cause breakdown of bone due to lack of calcium? This is called the “calcium paradox.” The calcium paradox is explained simply as the ability to get calcium in the right place – into the bone structures and out of the arterial vessel walls. These events depend on the creation of vitamin K-dependent proteins osteocalcin and matrix gla within a body reaction that is essential for optimal use of calcium. There are two main forms of vitamin K: vitamin K1 (phylloquinones) is found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli, and vitamin K2 (menaquinones) is found in meats and fermented soy products such as natto. While it was long thought that we all had sufficient amounts of vitamin K in our bodies, recent research indicates that many of us suffer from a deficiency. Vitamin K is called a fat-soluble vitamin, but unlike the other fat-soluble vitamins it is not stored in the body. This means that we have to get it from foods (for it to be created in

the gut), and many people don’t eat enough vegetables to obtain vitamin K. We may also be unwittingly reducing our supply. For example, hydrogenated oils in margarine and baked goods may stop the proper utilization of vitamin K in the body. Environmental stress places unusual demands on vitamin K reserves, and antibiotics destroy intestinal flora, which are the source of vitamin K in the body. Cholesterol lowering drugs, some laxatives and drugs that interfere with how fat is absorbed also reduce vitamin K. Even extremely low-fat diets and very high protein diets (that don’t include greens) can reduce our vitamin K. Evidence suggests that bone and heart health in particular require a relatively high intake of vitamin K, more than previously thought to be enough if we eat a healthy diet. Large scale studies have shown that eating foods rich in vitamin K2 significantly promotes bone and cardiovascular health, and reduces risk of bone injury. Of the two types of vitamin K, we particularly need K2. Natural vitamin K2 is the effective form of vitamin K because it activates matrix gla, a special protein that is necessary for the vascular tissues to make use of and then remove excess calcium. A study published in the April 15, 2007 issue of Blood, the American Society of Hematology’s journal, revealed greater benefits of vitamin K2 over K1 in promoting bone and cardiovascular health. The study demonstrated that vitamin K2 had better absorption, was able to be absorbed much longer and had higher efficacy than vitamin K1. In research from Japan, vitamin K2 was found to reduce bone loss in postmenopausal women by as much as 80 percent using a fermented soybean source. The study reported that women with a dietary intake of vitamin K2 reduced bone mass loss on the thigh bone and in the arm by 80 percent and 60 percent, respectively. According to Dr. Michael Colgan in his book Strong Bones, health authorities and many physicians in Canada do not know that strong bone is impossible without sufficient vitamin K, and require re-education. They were taught that vitamin K is primarily required for blood clotting, and as a result, it has been wrongly blamed

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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New produCT

Nutra K2

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from New Nordic

VITAMIN K2 FOR BONE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH!! for too much blood clotting in our bodies. But excess vitamin K is not responsible. Dr. Colgan states that scientists have known for 50 years that blood clotting is not controlled by the amount of vitamin K we ingest and that blood coagulation is only one of its functions. “The major role of vitamin K is to make bone matrix proteins and their conversion into a form which binds calcium into crystals to create bone structure.” Dr. Colgan also notes that US health authorities discovered that all women with osteoporosis are vitamin K deficient, and that this deficiency increases their risk of fracture by 600 percent. After this research was revealed, the US Institute of Medicine, which sets the daily requirement limits, doubled them for vitamin K to 90 micrograms for women and to120 micrograms for men. Dr. Colgan recommends 240 to 480 micrograms of vitamin K2, depending on age, gender, exercise and health. The latest research proves vitamin K2’s vital role in bone and heart health, but in addition to this, it has potent powers to fight premature aging, and may even be a stronger antioxidant (free radical-fighter) than vitamin E or coenzyme Q10.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

Major double blind clinical studies have recently linked vitamin K2 to improved boned health, particularly in post-menopausal women. Researchers in Maastricht reported that daily supplements of vitamin K2 maintained hip-bone strength in postmenopausal women, while placebos led to weakening. In other clinical studies, the same researchers found that vitamin K2 also inhibits the calcification of the cardiovascular system and may even reverse it. New Nordic now introduces Nutra K2 Solo, in the recommended 45 microgram daily dosage, of the effective Menaquinone-7 form of vitamin K2 (from natto soy beans). Look for the Silver Tree logo - your guarantee for high quality. For more information, please call 1-800-261-4223 or visit www.newnordic.ca Available at participating health food stores and pharmacies across Canada. Also available online at www.multisupplements.com.

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EnduraStrengthTM Athletic Strength and Endurance Formula. EnduraStrength contains herbs that scientific research has proven will provide strength and endurance to give you that extra energy boost during heavy sports or fitness activities, without the “crash” that other energy boosters like caffeine would give.

MuscleGroTM 90 veggie caps/bottle Insulin Maximizer The anabolic effects of insulin on muscle growth are well known. MuscleGro contains only natural and safe insulin-mimickers such as vanadium and R-Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) which also has the added benefit of being a very powerful anti-oxidant to help quench free radicals which impair tissue health.

Psoria-Gold

Calada

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Psoria-Gold is the result of 25 years of research into reversing skin damage by Madalene Heng, M.D. Psoria-Gold has been used on 10,000+ patients and is a patented formulation designed to inhibit the enzyme phosphorylase kinase to reduce psoriasis, acne, hyper-pigmentation, scarring and pre-cancerous changes to skin cells. Learn more about Psoria-Gold and see the results achieved with before and after photos at www.albinaturals.com.

A natural, effective and safe way to normalize high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Calada is a traditional Chinese Medicine used in the treatment of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It also helps relieve a variety of symptoms associated with high blood pressure such as dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. The primary benefits of Calada are derived from its ability to promote the widening (dilation) of blood vessels, which improves blood flow in tiny vessels throughout the body, and is therefore effective in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, Calada inhibits the formation of blood clots and functions as an antioxidant, reducing the cellular damage caused by free radicals. www.otigh. ca; 1-866-456-5351.

Liquid IronVital F® Tired? Listless? Pale Skin? Liquid IronVital F® provides vital energy! IronVital F® liquid helps fulfill your daily requirement for iron and contains iron in bivalent form. It has a pleasant fruit taste and is ideal to take during pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstruation, growth stages and while exercising intensely. The combination of vitamin C in IronVital F® helps the iron to be absorbed readily by the human body, while the B vitamins enhance the effects of the iron. Get a FREE Naka Tote Bag with your IronVital F® purchase while supplies last at select retailers! Naka Herbs & Vitamins Ltd. (416) 748-3073 www.nakaherbs.com.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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Germ Warfare: Win with Friendly Flora By François Moncourt

ost of us have heard that balancing our digestive system’s bacterial environment keeps it healthy and working effectively. You carry around about three pounds of bacteria in your intestines, and even bad bacteria like E.coli and salmonella live happily inside you all of the time. The problem is that the good and bad can get out of balance when the lurking undesirables increase in numbers, causing major strife to your digestive and immune systems. Everything from weight gain and constipation to allergies, skin problems and chronic fatigue has been blamed on having a poor balance of intestinal flora. There are dramatically different types of probiotics, so arm yourself with information before you choose. Most probiotic supplements use actual live bacteria. Although these supplements promote mega doses – billions of bacteria – from several different strains, there are actually very few bacteria that have had their ability to produce beneficial substances for human health validated in published studies. Actibiotics, on the other hand, are derived from the strain of good bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LB and use all of the strain’s metabolites and beneficial structures but don’t need to use the actual bacteria itself within the supplement, which is safer and can be more effective. The unique characteristics of this Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LB have proven their effectiveness, documented and published in numerous scientific magazines. Actibiotics allow our system to better absorb nutrients in food by improving digestive system function and fortifying the intestinal flora that lives there. They function as a prebiotic, meaning that they promote your endogenic defensive flora, and act as an antimicrobial, meaning that they combat pathogenic germs and fungus within the gastrointestinal tract. They also offer cellular support, helping to heal and regenerate the intestinal inner wall, and act as an immune system stimulator by helping to produce defence cells including immunoglobulines and cytokines. The Lactobacillus acidophilus LB strain was discovered back in 1907. In numerous studies conducted at that time, trials were done with a dead strain replacing a live one – while preserving all of the substances of the inert bacteria and its surrounding fermented environment – in order to prevent the slightest health risk. Surprisingly, the results were equally as effective as with the use of a live strain. The early 1900s were a period when many infants and children died from dehydration caused by diarrhea, provoked by intestinal infections. The primary purpose of these studies was to find an effective product devoid of secondary effects to curb those infec-

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tions and their symptoms, primarily diarrhea, as quickly as possible. Following the success of these trials, LB strain (actibiotics) was used on children and adults for decades in Europe. Modern studies have included Dr. Kamel Bargaoui’s Lactobacillus acidophilus LB report, which shows its effects on recurring abdominal pain in childhood (the International Pediatric Congress of Pekin, September 2001), in addition to studies finding positive results on brush border damage within the digestive tract, and against salmonella and Helicobacter pilori bacterial infection. Actibiotics offer safe, effective relief from illnesses that probiotics are often used to combat. These include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, allergies, immune system weakness, leaky gut syndrome, urinary tract infections, candida albicans (yeast infections) and ear infections. They also support the balance of intestinal flora after antibiotic medication use, which kills both good and bad bacteria. This strain is effective for digestive complaints such as bloating, gas, acid reflux, constipation, gastric ulcers and diarrhea, and helps in detoxification. It also aids circulatory and lymphatic problems, reducing edema, hot flashes and other menopausal symp-

toms, inflammation, poor lymph drainage, and arterial and circulatory problems. Taking supplements for general health and prevention is also important. Actibiotics assist with concentration, anxiety, sleep problems, skin conditions such as dermatitis, food intolerances, decreasing hyperactivity and attention deficit in children, preventing flu, and supporting our immune system to combat daily challenges such as pollution, stress and fatigue. Actibiotics should be taken on an empty stomach 30 minutes to one hour before meals. The benefits and therapeutic properties of LB strain Lactobacillus acidophilus go beyond traditional probiotics, to which they are frequently compared. Indeed, they share some common properties, but actibiotics’ action within the intestinal tract may be more complete, with longer term effects. François Moncourt is a naturopathic practitioner who decided in 1992 after 15 years in the pharmaceutical industry to launch into natural medicine and products. He specializes in minerals and trace elements, the digestive system, allergies and auto-immune disease, and gives conferences to both therapists and the public. He is also a live blood analysis practitioner.

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At Home with Nature By David Suzuki

ife is believed to have arisen on Earth about four billion years ago. DNA probes reveal that humans originated as a species in Africa 150,000 years ago, which makes us evolutionary infants. For most of our brief time here, we understood that we were deeply embedded in and utterly dependent on nature for our survival and well-being. The reality of that fact hasn’t changed, but our perception of it has. For most of our existence, we were nomadic hunter-gatherers, seeking out useful plants and following animals through the seasons. Our ecological footprint (the amount of land and water required to fulfill our needs) was slight; when we had to carry everything we owned we tended to lug only the bare necessities. People understood and were grateful for nature’s abundance and generosity. About 10,000 years ago, the agricultural revolution signalled a monumental shift in human existence. By deliberately planting and growing food, we could settle in one place and establish roots. Civilizations rose and fell relatively rapidly in evolutionary time, but until the past century, most people lived in rural communities and were involved in growing food. Farmers watch the seasons carefully. They understand the relationship between winter snow and summer moisture, and they know which plants and insects are beneficial and which are pests. Nature is a dominant reality for farmers, and because so many people were connected to farming in 1900, it was a dominant reality for the world. In the 20th century humankind underwent a profound transformation. From 1900 to 2000, the world’s population grew fourfold to six billion people, and cities of more than a million exploded by a factor of 30 to over 400. More than 80 percent of people in industrialized nations and over half of the Earth’s total population now live in cities. This has resulted in a corresponding change in our relationship with nature. This generation of children spends less time outdoors than any generation in human history. Why are we surprised? Today in Toronto,

a person living in an air-conditioned apartment can take an elevator to the basement parking lot and drive an air-conditioned car to a garage in a

downtown building to work all day in an air-conditioned office. Shopping, eating and recreation can all be done within interconnected buildings, so there’s no need to go outside for days! I once hosted a television series in which we filmed 10- to 12-year-old city kids in different locations. For one show, we took a boy and girl to a farm outside of Toronto where for two days, we gathered eggs, milked cows, fed pigs and rode horses. On the third day, we took the

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kids to a slaughterhouse where the 12-year-old boy was upset to learn that hamburgers and wieners were made from the muscles of an animal! City kids often don’t know the source of electricity or tap water or the destination of a flushed toilet or garbage on the curb. Nature is the ultimate source of our water and electricity, and nature absorbs our waste. But in our globalized world, we believe the economy takes precedence over nature. This is a notion that a provincial environment minister reinforced when he chastised me, saying, “We can’t afford to protect the environment if we don’t have a strong, growing economy.” We hear it in the many arguments that our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, although necessary, must not inhibit the economy. But the economy is a human invention, while nature is what all life depends on. Economics and ecology are based on the same root word, eco, from the Greek oikos, meaning “home.” Ecology is the study of home while economics is its management. Ecologists study the conditions and principles that determine the long-term survival of species. It seems obvious that managing our “home” would depend on understanding these conditions and principles. But in elevating economics above everything else, we ignore the reality that we live within and make a living from the finite confines of the biosphere – the thin layer of air, water and soil where all life exists. Nothing within a finite world can grow indefinitely; there are limits. If we are to find a truly sustainable future, we have to put the “eco” back into economics. David Suzuki is the Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation and is an award-winning scientist and broadcaster. He is host of the television series, The Nature of Things. He founded CBC Radio’s, Quirks and Quarks and presented two documentary series on the environment, From Naked Ape to Superspecies and It’s a Matter of Survival. Dr. Suzuki has received a UNESCO prize for science, a United Nations Environment Program medal and the Order of Canada.

Seeds of Change: Interview with Percy Schmeiser By Carol Crenna

uring his 10-year legal battle with Monsanto Co, the agribusiness giant infamous for its genetically modified seeds, Percy Schmeiser has become renowned as the unassuming Saskatchewan farmer who gave the world a wake-up call about the dangers of genetic engineering. Schmeiser has been growing and experimenting with canola for 40 years and knows his stuff. So when Monsanto accused him of patent infringement for illegally using the company’s herbicide-resistant seeds, he chose to fight for his life rather than give up his rights and his livelihood. In October 2007, Percy and Louise Schmeiser won the Right Livelihood Award, considered the alternative Nobel Peace Prize, for their courage in defending biodiversity and farmer’s rights. In March 2008, they finally won a landmark lawsuit against Monsanto that will create positive change. At 78 years old, the day after traveling from Russia to tell his story, Percy spoke with VISTA. VISTA: Did you ever think your life would end up this way? Percy: Never. I’ve been invited to 50 countries to speak, and I no longer have time to farm. Because my wife and I were doing research prior to the lawsuit into the development of new varieties of canola seeds, we were aware of GMO contamination and were perhaps better equipped to deal with the situation than other farmers. VISTA: What do people want to hear about now, 10 years after the lawsuit? Percy: There has been a shift in public interest in that I not only get asked to speak to farmers and universities, but educate consumers who are concerned about the quality and contents of their food. I’ve noticed more organic farmers who want to learn about GMOs; I just attended a large organic farming conference in Italy. I have been invited to speak about current research, the environment, environmental law and health.

VISTA: If you were an organic farmer would this have happened? Percy: I should have listened to my wife 40 years ago when she wanted me to convert the entire farm to organic crops! However, being a conventional farmer doesn’t mean that you have to use chemicals. I never used insecticide on my farm in my lifetime. I knew that if it destroyed harmful insects it would also destroy beneficial ones, including bees. I also used as little herbicide as possible. VISTA: How toxic is herbicide like Monsanto’s Round-Up? Percy: Today’s Round-Up and other herbicides are about 10 times more powerful and highly toxic than even 10 years ago due to new ingredients that make it faster reacting. It is the combination of various ingredients that makes it toxic. It is polluting streams and soil, and the dead foliage killed by it is eaten by birds and other animals, which in turn kills them. VISTA: Do we know the effects of GMOs on humans? Percy: I was impressed by the up-to-date research done in Moscow in regard to health affects of eating GMO foods. The scientists there have gone much further than North America; they are freer there to do unbiased research than here where a lot of our university grant money comes from the private sector, which can determine the direction of the research. What kind of future will my grandchildren in university have if research is suppressed and directed for private interests?

er and kidney ailments and reduced function of the immune system, which I am most concerned about. There were similar findings in Scotland and Switzerland. There is “horizontal transfer,” meaning that although scientists used to think that GMOs were not absorbed into the body of a human, animal or insect, that has been proven totally false. GMOs do transfer into the stomach lining and intestines, going into the blood stream and then throughout the body – a fact that was totally denied by the corporations creating them. Results released to government from around the world show that in the 1980s these corporations knew the effects. VISTA: It was disappointing that the House of Commons Bill C-517, which would have made labelling of GMOs on our food mandatory, was quickly and quietly killed a few months ago. Percy: I was very surprised that the bill not passing in legislature got such little media attention. I took the labelling issue to the Human Rights Commission in Geneva and stated that it is, in fact, a violation of human rights when people do not know what is in their food. So Canada has been charged with that violation. A government should be happy to pass a law that discloses this information to protect the health of its people because it will save health care costs. But it is corporations that control those regulations in Canada and the US. Much of this stems from the lack of knowledge about genetic engineering among politicians; not knowing what it involves, they fell for corporations’ misleading falsehoods like “increased yields,” “feed the hungry world” and “sustainable agriculture.”

VISTA: What did the Russian scientists find when researching GMO potatoes?

VISTA: Are the “gene police” – ex-RCMP officers hired by Monsanto and other companies to tightly control regulation infringements – still operating in Saskatchewan?

Percy: They found effects on humans including retarded growth or increased rate of growth, liv-

Percy: You bet they are. They go from farm to farm policing crops, taking samples from the

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edge of fields, which I call bio-piracy and trespassing. A lot of people in these communities are divided; there is a culture of fear because they have seen how this has completely bankrupted many farmers. An important result from winning my case in March is that it has brought hope. If your farm has been contaminated, there is now an avenue open to defend yourself. VISTA: So farmers no longer have to go through what you went through? Percy: Exactly. I was able to bring Monsanto into small claims court. The executives never thought that it could happen to them. I had a multibillion dollar corporation into court on a $650 bill and won, which set a world precedent. VISTA: Don’t you think that in your particular case, since you became known globally, that Monsanto simply wanted to stop the bad publicity connected with your name, and that is why they finally gave in to pressure? Percy: You are partially correct. But the fact is that once they make a settlement, they can argue all they want to in new cases but a judge always looks at previous cases to determine decisions. VISTA: Have other farmers taken these corporations to court? Percy: There was a soy bean farmer in South Dakota and a corn farmer in Missouri with almost the same lawsuit as mine, which were also considered “test cases” by Monsanto to see how far they could exercise their rights over farmers, going through the courts to test patent laws. Both cases were settled out of court due to farmers’ health issues – a nervous breakdown and a heart issue – with no disclosure or statements allowed. If I had similarly signed Monsanto’s release form, I wouldn’t be able to talk to you. But I would never give up my freedom of speech. My wife and I were able to maintain our health to complete the process. But it wasn’t easy. Monsanto gave many threats, trying to seize our house, farmland and machinery by putting liens on them. If we would have lost this case, we would not have had a home to come back to. Farmers who signed a contract with Monsanto and other companies to use their seed have lost their ability to take them to court. They signed their life away. VISTA: How many other farmers have been affected? Percy: Hundreds. The Center for Food Safety in Washington took records of only those cases that

actually went through the courts, which is a very small fraction, and there were over one hundred a year ago. The average settlement that these farmers made with Monsanto was $150,000. There was one for $2.5 million. In most cases it, bankrupted the farmers. Trish Jordan, manager of public and industry affairs for Monsanto Canada, said, “We don’t keep this money. We give it all to charity.” I had a difficult time trying to find out exactly what charity it was given to. VISTA: Why would a large multibillion dollar company pick on small farmers with little profits? Percy: It wants to maintain control over licensing fees to ensure that farmers buy their seeds from the company each year. If it controls the seed supply, it controls our food supply. With this control, it can designate that certain regions can only grow wheat, barley or canola, determining exactly what each farmer produces, similar to the feudal system of centuries ago. VISTA: Has cross pollination through wind or bees been proven as the reason the seeds were on your land? Percy: Definitely. Any farmer will tell you that it can happen through transportation of seeds, harvesting, seeding and treatment methods. There are no non-GMO corn or canola plants left in Canada because it has all been contaminated. VISTA: Why did you decide to fight back? Percy: If farmers lose their right to seed their own crops it will stop the development of plants best suited for their own region’s soil and climatic conditions. A seed planted in one area may grow very well, but 200 kilometres away it may have disastrous growing results. Also, some genes contaminating plants have highly allergic affects on humans. An unwanted gene already ended up in the seed supply at Monsanto and resulted in a massive recall. If ever our food security was in jeopardy, it’s now. Bio-terrorism experts simply have to put a harmful gene into the seed supply and it’s game over. That’s how serious it is. The worst part about GMOs is that there is no going back. You can have an oil or chemical spill and eventually you can clean it up and save the future environment. But once GMOs are introduced into the environment, there is no way to undo the damage.

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VISTA: That’s plain scary. Do you think a farmer’s right to save and reuse his own seeds will be protected in Canada?

Percy: Eventually. People here no longer believe what they were told in 1996 when GMOs were introduced. Now these corporations are telling farmers in Europe and other areas the same thing they told us then. But other countries are more concerned than North America about what’s in their food. We’ve always had quantity, but the quality of our food, the value of the nutrients, has dramatically decreased since the introduction of GMOs. The time has come to re-evaluate the state of our food content. It is now chemical food from chemical plants from chemical seeds from chemical soil. VISTA: Do certified organics have more nutrition? Percy: Twice the value, particularly compared to GMO foods. I am in contact with scientists from around the world that have shown me research proving that particularly the protein value is half of what it was before GMOs. VISTA: Are you still financially burdened by the lawsuit? Percy: I still have legal bills to pay but they’re manageable, and I still get help from people from around the world to pay them. I was almost debt free before our last case went to court but it was well worth going back into debt for the victory. We were planning to retire before this occurred. Now I hope to get back to fishing and spending more time with my grandchildren.

Recipe for Health

Go Green Salad By Tracy Holly

esides being definitively green, this salad is alkalizing, great for the thyroid and loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. After eating the Go Green Salad you’ll feel alive with energy and your body and taste buds will thank you. If you’ve never tried arugula in your salad, it is a spicy little leaf that some describe as bitter and others characterize as having a “pepperymustardy” flavour. It will add a new flavour dimension to your salads. Perhaps you know it by some of its other names — rugola, rucola, roquette, garden rocket, Mediterranean rocket, salad rocket, Roman rocket or Italian cress. The dried wakame is a sea vegetable that gives this salad a crunchy texture. Wakame is a

thin and stringy seaweed that is deep green in colour that is common in Japanese and other Asian cuisines and used to making seaweed salad and miso soup. Because it is a type of kelp, wakame is rich in protein, calcium, iodine, potassium, magnesium, iron and folate, as well as dietary fibre. Lower rates of breast cancer have been reported in Japanese women eating a diet high in kelp. Lignans, which are said to help fight cancer, are found in high quantity in wakame and may provide protection against certain cancers. Recent research has found that some of the fibres in wakame help prevent colon cancer by providing antioxidants in addition to preventing the “fermentation” and oxidation of food as it passes through the large intestine.

The sugars in wakame are antiviral against cytomegalovirus and herpes; a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine reported that taking an extract of wakame prevented and reduced the severity of recurrent herpes outbreaks. The Japanese Journal of Cancer Research reports preliminary findings that daily consumption of small amounts of wakame may be more beneficial in treating certain kinds of breast cancer in women than chemotherapy. One more thing: wakame helps to beautify the skin because it contains the most calotin among all seaweeds. Calotin is believed to be effective for protecting your skin from roughness, patchiness and blemishes. With all of the health benefits of wakame you can see why adding into your daily fare is so important.

Go Green Salad 6 cups organic baby spinach 6 cups organic arugula ½ cup dried wakame flakes seaweed vegetable 2 tbsp Mrs. Dash (original blend with no salt added) ½ cup EFA antioxidant oil blend ¼ cup Modena balsamic vinegar In a large salad bowl, add greens and wakame. In a glass jar, mix together the oil and vinegar, shake and pour on green mixture. While tossing, sprinkle Mrs. Dash into the salad. Taste test and then add more oil or vinegar to your liking. Enjoy! The Go Green salad goes especially well with seared ahi tuna. It’s also a great accompaniment to any meat, fish or chicken dish.

Tracy Holly CSNA Master is a whole food cook and is currently touring the USA. For more information, visit www.coryholly.com.

photo: elena thewise

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www.vistamagonline.com

Why Do We Need Water? By Sophia Stewart

ight glasses, 2.5 litres, 64 ounces, a halfgallon — anyway you pour it, that’s a lot of water. And that’s what research says you should drink every day. If you haven’t acquired a serious ”drinking habit” yet, you better start now. Despite anything you may have heard lately that you really don’t need to drink that much, experts say that you do, and that most of us are considerably dehydrated. Water comprises 50 to 70 percent of your total body weight, and without regular top-ups, your body’s survival time is limited to a matter of days. Water is lost through urine and perspiration, and must be replaced; if you don’t drink enough, your body will cry out with symptoms such as headaches, tiredness and loss of concentration. Chronic dehydration can contribute to health problems that vary from constipation and depression to kidney stones and heart attack. Of the 2.5 litres you should be drinking per day, 1.8 litres must be obtained directly from beverages (the rest you get from food), and drinking pure water is the most effective way of replacing lost fluids. This amount should be increased during hot weather or during and after physical activity. And you’ve heard it before: when you become thirsty, you’re already dehydrated, so you must drink before you feel thirst. In many cases, you might be drinking the correct amount of water but drinking a poor source of water or a product with too many other additives to hydrate you correctly (because additives throw off water’s chemical balance). Though we can’t live without it, it’s surprising that most of us know little about the importance of water for cellular hydration, oxygenation and detoxification. Hydration is a measurement of the fluid levels in the body. The more hydrated you are, the more efficiently you transport nutrients and hormones, and flush toxins. The water you drink dissolves the vitamins and minerals that you eat, which is obviously important for their use in your body. A well-hydrated system delivers nutrients and oxygen to the cells, increases blood oxygen, removes waste from the cells and toxic material from the liver and kidneys. It provides electrical energy for brain function and is required to create neurotransmitters. It can reduce stress and anxiety, can restore a normal sleep cycle, and aids in weight loss. Water increases the strength of your immune system, can reduce

PMS symptoms, and enhances your athletic performance. Drinking lots of water is also necessary for the production of hormones; it helps to regulate adhesion of blood cells, and may reduce risk of heart attacks and strokes. It is vital for all digestive functions, enhances joint flexibility and strength, and definitely reduces the signs of aging on your skin.

But how do we actually become hydrated by drinking water?

In 2003, the Nobel Prize in chemistry was awarded to two scientists whose discoveries clarified how salts (ions) and water are transported out of and into the cells of the body. Through these discoveries, Nobel Laureates Peter Agre and Roderick MacKinnon contributed to fundamental chemical knowledge on how cells function to hydrate the body. These stunning discoveries showed how the human cell hydrates one water molecule at a time. This research found that there may be a need to restore the natural chemistry in water in order to fully activate the body’s cellular aquaporin and ion channels for complete hydration and oxygenation. Aquaporin (water) channels and ion channels are pathways found in proteins. The water channels form pores in cells and conduct water molecules through the cell wall, while preventing the passage of ions (such as sodium and potassium) and other small molecules which are instead directed through ion channels. Scientists have found that today’s water isn’t actually that conducive to hydrating the body, though it may have been in centuries past, and can be made to work better. They discovered that hydration of the human cell is not about the structure of water molecules; it’s about the chemical balance of the water before it’s consumed. They have been working to restore a special balance needed in water so that it can hydrate and oxygenate cells to their fullest potential by making the energy and contents of the water molecule fully available to the cell. New technology is said to have now found ways to accomplish this, and to therefore increase hydration and blood oxygen levels in drinking water. Drinking water, particularly pure, naturally balanced water, is not only important for daily functions of the body’s organs, it is as vital a source of oxygen for your cells as is breathing oxygen through your lungs. Have another drink.

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Nature’s Medicine Cabinet By Joel Thuna

• 5 different Mineral Ascorbates • Water & fat soluble C sources for enhanced antioxidant protection • Featuring an array of fruit concentrates • Pure vegetable capsules for optimal absorption • Professionally formulated and energetically tested

ative to Mediterranean regions, oregano has been used for centuries as a pungent, warming spice in cooking and baking, in addition to being a healing remedy. A valued digestive aid, its consumption enhances digestion and acts as a diuretic. Oregano (Origanum vulgare), which is also known as common Turkish oregano, European oregano and wild oregano, is one of nature’s treasures. Oregano oil is distilled from fresh, handpicked oregano leaves, and has a reputation for being a potent remedy, attributed to the over 130 medicinally and nutritionally active compounds that it contains. Chief among these compounds are the phenols, carvacrol and thymol, two antioxidant compounds that act as exceptionally strong healing and health promoting agents. Internally, carvacrol and thymol effectively support your body’s immune, digestive and respiratory systems. This action enables oregano to act as a healer and prevent a multitude of conditions that affect these vital body systems. Carvacrol and thymol have numerous uses within the body, which include being antispasmodics, anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, antiplaques, antibacterials, fungicides and candidicides (candida albicans). They also take mucous from the respiratory tract and are useful for the treatment of digestive cramps. This unique powerhouse of medicinal properties enables oregano to be a virtual medicine chest by itself. In addition to being antifungal and antibacterial, these compounds also work externally as a powerful antiseptic and pain relieving analgesic agent, making oregano valued when treating rheumatism and arthritis. It helps to alleviate the pain associated with headaches, inflammation, and spider and insect bites. In addition, the herb’s powerful antimicrobial properties assist in preventing infections and treating skin conditions such as athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema, shingles and neuralgia (nerve pain). Oregano has even been successfully used to terminate lice infestations. Thymol (in low doses as found in oregano) is a potent aid for loosening phlegm in the lungs. Oregano has been used for centuries to treat respiratory problems such as colds, flu, asthma, bronchitis and coughs. Natural, undiluted oregano essential oil has a carvacrol content ranging from 40 to 70 percent. Undiluted oregano essential oil is far too strong to use internally or externally. That is why oil of oregano products are blends of oregano oil and carrier oils, in most cases olive oil. Proper blending can create highly potent, effective, safe and easy to use products. Companies claiming their products to be 60 to 90 percent carvacrol are simply fiction at best! Any product with carvacrol even approaching these ranges would burn skin on contact and would cause extreme damage if taken internally. Additionally, it is mathematically impossible; blending an oregano essential oil with a carrier oil will reduce the overall carvacrol content dramatically. Oregano is often used as a preservative in the food industry because of its ability to kill a wide range of bacteria. Multiple clinical trials have

www.progressivenutritional.com 84

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www.vistamagonline.com proven oregano’s ability to kill numerous harmful organisms including candida (Candida albicans), E. coli (Escherichia coli), salmonella (Salmonella enteritidis), flu (influenza), staph (Staphylococcus aureus), and some pneumonia-causing bacteria. As an edible spice oil, oregano works well to enhance cleansers and disinfect high risk areas in the kitchen, bathrooms or anywhere else small children or pets frequent. Oregano does not leave any toxic or chemical residue. By incorporating oregano you can add safe, natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to shampoo, soap, detergent and household cleansers, and in turn, can reduce the potential for spreading colds, flu and disease. According to the Mayo Clinic and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, thorough hand washing prevents colds. Adding oil of oregano creates “super hand washing” that ensures that the harmful bacteria are destroyed. Unlike many antibiotics, properly formulated and manufactured oil of oregano can combat infection and be used without fear of creating the resistant super bugs that result from using pharmaceutical antibacterial products. It is the natural, safe, effective way to promote good health without negative side effects. In addition to traditional oil of oregano drops, oregano oil is also sold in capsules which are made by spraying the oil onto a natural powder and encapsulating it in traditional vegan capsules. The capsules offer those who prefer taking taste-free supplements an option, and offer neat and easy application for use on feet and in hair if the capsule is simply separated to reveal the powder.

Joel Thuna, MH, is a fourth generation master herbalist with over 25 years experience in nutrition.

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Magnetism: What It Can Do for You By Dr. Dean Bonlie

here’s more misinformation and misunderstanding on the science of magnetism than in any other health field, yet it is one of the four very basic elements essential for life! Air, water, food, and the Earth’s magnetic field keep you functioning on the planet. Historically, geomagnetism has gone in cycles from low to high. An average measurement of the Earth’s current magnetic field is .5 gauss, which is extremely low and constantly monitored by the US Geological Survey. It is very interesting to note that four thousand years ago there was six times more geomagnetism for our ancestors than now. With our increasingly electricitydriven lifestyles from wireless technology, radio waves and electromagnetic frequencies from ev-

erything from cell phones to microwave ovens, there seems to be a corresponding increase of chronic health conditions. Could the drastically reduced amount of geomagnetic field be a factor in stress, nerve conditions and even cancer? Sleep is our vital restorative process time. The Earth’s magnetic field and the astrocyte cells of the brain work together to achieve magnetic resonance, which restores the loss of cellular charge on body cells from the activities of the day. Together they match frequencies of the various tissues of the body on a cyclical basis (sleep cycles). The current depletion of the geomagnetic field puts more workload on the brain’s restoring efforts, which lessens sleep efficiency. Poor sleep is often the beginning of fatigue-re-

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

lated ailments such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, arthritis and migraines, and contributes to serious chronic diseases. The best solution to this problem is to restore extra magnetism for yourself during the important hours of sleep, which will make the entire nightly restoring process more efficient. A properly designed unipolar under-the-mattress type of magnetic pad can provide a “pure field” that matches the polarity of the hemisphere you live in. It could be considered a unique environmental supplement that you take each night. These magnetic pads have been on the market for 18 years, are well tested, are available in varying strengths and are as easy to use as getting into bed at night! People typically try these magnetic pads because they have a chronic problem and nothing else has helped. The pads have been shown to obtain good results, particularly for those with arthritic conditions, for workers who experience pain doing physical labour and for people in high stress jobs that have trouble relaxing into sleep. They are also good for children to relieve growing pains, for the elderly to improve immunity and for athletes to improve performance. Toxicity issues are now recognized to be a significant health issue. When four Canadian government leaders agreed to have laboratory toxicity testing completed a couple of years ago, their blood samples showed an amazing assortment of toxins, including PCBs, carcinogens, hormone disruptors, respiratory toxins, reproductive or developmental toxins and neurotoxins. The conclusion was that no matter where you live in Canada, you are at risk. Restoring your geomagnetic field during sleep also helps to counteract these toxins. A clinical study done on 13 subjects with diagnosed toxicity problems that slept on a magnetic pad showed a dramatic reduction of measured samples of pollutants, particularly heavy metals. The study was conducted by an independent physician who also tested toxicity levels by independent laboratory testing of urine. The levels were measured before sleeping on the magnetic pad, after one night on the pad, and after a second night on the pad with an added chelating agent. The results showed very significant increases in metal excretions, confirming the improved effectiveness of the body when given this increased natural energy source.

VISTA Magazine Issue 60

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