The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.

The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.

The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Shocking Truth About Eight Deadly Diseases That May Be Affecting Your Health and Lifestyle

I came across an article written by Dr. Ray Strand, a family practitioner and author of several books including What Your Doctor Doesn't know About Nutritional Medicine May Be Killing You; Releasing Fat; Developing Healthy Lifestyles That Have a Side-effect of Permanent Fat Loss; and Bionutrition: The Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin Supplements, to name a few. I would like to share with you what Dr. Strand has to say about "the eight deadly diseases that are sending people to an early grave".

Deadly Disease Number 1: Heart Disease

Truth: Coronary artery disease is the number one killer in industrialized nations today, accounting for over 7.2 million deaths a year.

Heart disease is an inflammatory disease of the artery, not a disease of cholesterol. Over half of the patients who suffer a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels. The underlying cause of inflammation of the artery is "oxidized" LDL cholesterol, homocysteine, along with excessive free radicals caused by hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, fatty meals, and elevated insulin levels. All of these causes inflammation of the artery are either eliminated or reduced by the use of nutritional supplementation.

Deadly Disease Number 2: Cancer

Truth: 8.6 million people die of cancer yearly.

In spite of the great advances in the diagnosis and treat of cancer, the eventual outcome is too often a very difficult and painful death. Medical literature increasingly supports the fact that cancer develops from damage to the DNA of cells by unstable molecules over the course of 10 to 20 years.

Deadly Disease Number 3: Stroke

Truth: 5.5 million people die from stroke every year.

Stroke occurs suddenly and usually without warning. Dr. Meir Stampfer reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1995 that 15 percent of all strokes could be related to elevated homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism that is elevated in individuals who have low levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.

Deadly Disease Number 4: Diabetes

Truth: 194 million people suffer from diabetes, and it is estimated to rise to 300 million by the year 2025.

The overwhelming new cases of diabetes in the world today are the result of insulin resistance. Physicians are busy treating blood sugars rather than the underlying problem, the insulin resistance. Diet, exercise, and potent nutritional supplements all improve sensitivity to your own insulin and are critical in preventing diabetes from occurring in the first place or, if you already have diabetes, helping control your diabetes.

Deadly Disease Number 5: Osteoporosis

Truth: 25 million North Americans suffer from osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis and bone health depend not only on estrogen and calcium, but on a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins B6, C, D, K, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and copper. Failure to meet one or more of these nutrient needs could result in accelerated osteoporosis. Maintaining strong and healthy bones should begin early.

Deadly Disease Number 6: Arthritis

Truth: Over 165 million people have some form of arthritis,

More than 70 to 80 percent of the population over the age of 50 suffers from degenerative arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication does nothing to slow down the progression of the disease and is responsible for over 100,000 hospital admissions each year and 16,000 deaths. Glucosamine sulfate, along with complete and balanced nutritional supplements on the other hand, actually slows down degenerative arthritis and is even able to increase cartilage within the joint, without dangerous side effects.

Deadly Disease Number 7: Alzheimer's:

Truth: An estimated 29 million people suffer from dementia.

Alzheimer's dementia has been shown to be caused by oxidative stress. Patients who have the highest intake of antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, have the lowest risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia. Dr. Strand believes that the absolute best way to protect yourself against the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is by taking highly potent nutritional supplements.

Deadly Disease Number 8: Obesity

Truth: For the first time in the history of the United States and other industrialized countries, there are more people who are obese than are of normal weight.

Researchers are beginning to realize that one of the main causes of obesity is insulin resistance. Eating in such a way as not to spike your blood sugar, modest exercise, and nutritional supplements all improve insulin sensitivity. This triad of healthy lifestyle has a side effect of fat loss.

Remember: When you are maximizing your body's health potential, we everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose.

--

The Facts About Glutathione and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), a devastating illness, occurs in one of every 100 people over 65.

It is a slowly progressing disease of the nervous system that results in progressive destruction of brain cells (neurons) in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Death occurs usually as a result of secondary complications such as infection.

One of the mechanisms known to destroy neurons is damage by free radicals or reactive oxygen species - destructive molecules produced by oxidation of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

The Role of Dopamine

The cells of the substantia nigra use dopamine - a chemical messenger between brain or nerve cells - to communicate with cells in another region of the brain called the striatum.

When nigral cells are lost, nigral dopamine levels fall, resulting in a decrease in striatal dopamine.

The typical symptoms of PD - motor function deficiencies characterized by muscle rigidity, jerky movements, rhythmic resting tremors - are the result of low levels of striatal dopamine.

Most dopaminergic drugs used to treat PD, are aimed at temporarily replenishing or mimicking dopamine. They improve some symptoms, but do not restore normal brain function nor halt brain cell destruction.

Dopaminergic drugs are generally effective at first in reducing many PD symptoms, but over time they lose their effect.

They also cause severe side effects because they overstimulate nerve cells elsewhere in the body and cause confusion, hallucinations, nausea and fluctuations in the movement of limbs.

The Role of Antioxidants

When dopaminergic neurons are lost in the course of Parkinson's disease, the metabolism of dopamine is increased - which in turn increases the formation of highly neurotoxic hydroxyl radicals.

The most important free radical scavenger in the cells of the substantia nigra is the powerful brain antioxidant, glutathione. Glutathione levels in PD patients are low.

And as we age, levels of glutathione in the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra decreases. This appears to hasten cell death and advance the progression of PD.

At least 80 percent of the substantia nigra cells are lost before symptoms of Parkinson's disease become apparent. This is why it becomes essential to protect or maintain these cells under oxidative stress.

How does Glutathione help in Parkinson's Disease?

Several factors explain why glutathione is so beneficial in Parkinson's disease.

1. Glutathione increases the sensitivity of the brain to dopamine. So although glutathione doesn't raise dopamine levels, it allows the dopamine in the brain to be more effective.

2. Glutathione's powerful antioxidant activity protects the brain from free radical damage.

3. An even more intriguing benefit of glutathione lies in its powerful detoxification ability.

Its a well known fact that most Parkinson's patients are deficient in their ability to detoxify chemicals to which they are exposed.

The unfortunate few who harbor an inherited flaw in their detoxification pathways are at far greater risk to the brain damaging effects of a wide variety of toxins.

Glutathione is one of the most important components of the liver's detoxification system. Glutathione therapy is one of the most effective techniques for enhancing liver and brain detoxification.

Glutathione treatments considerably improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including difficulties with rigidity, walking, movement, coordination and speech. A marked reduction of tremor has been observed as well as a decrease in depression.

Glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (a glutathione precursor) have been shown to be very effective in protecting the nerves in the substantia nigra from being destroyed by oxidative stress.

Glutathione Therapy in Parkinson's Disease

The practical problem in increasing glutathione levels is that taking glutathione itself as a supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells.

However, intravenous glutathione therapy and taking glutathione precursors are both effective in boosting intracellular levels of glutathione.

Intravenous Glutathione Therapy:

Intravenous glutathione injections have been shown to have amazing and quick results.

Dr. David Perlmutter, a pioneer in this therapy, has developed a protocol utilized at the Perlmutter Health Center for administering intravenous glutathione to Parkinson's patients.

Following even a single dosage of intravenous glutathione - often in as little as 15 minutes - the ability to walk, turn around and move their arms is almost completely restored.

Glutathione Precursors:

Dietary antioxidants and supplements that increase cellular glutathione, such as alpha lipoic acid, NAC, pycnogenol, the herb silymarin (milk thistle), are effective in restoring normal function.

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and un-denatured, whey protein both supply glutathione precursors intracellularly, enhance the body's production of glutathione and aid the detoxification process.

Other nutritional supplements which aid the detoxification process include selenium, vitamins E and C.