Red Wine & a Healthy Heart

Over the last several years moderate red wine consumption has not only increased but has also been encouraged. This phenomenon has occurred due to the acceptance by the medical community, as well as the general public, of the documented health benefits of red wine consumption.

Wine polyphenols, such as resveratrol, have been credited with those health benefits related to red wine use. These polyphenols have been shown to be effective in reducing the occurrence and damage of free radicals, decreasing the risks of heart disease, increasing the death rate and destruction of cancerous cells, and improving the outcomes of other health conditions and concerns.

The mechanisms by which wine polyphenols perform their activities have not been fully indentified, and those that have been are not completely understood. A study published in Food Research International investigated the effects of red wine polyphenols on the rate of oxidation of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the blood, in addition to their abilities to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are both a cause and a result of fatty acid oxidation, creating a vicious cycle that can have far-reaching health affects.

This study showed that red wine polyphenols appeared to protect fatty acids from oxidation, especially the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and in doing so also reduced and controlled the production of free radicals. By identifying this process, researchers believe that they may have found one mechanism through which these polyphenols provide anti-inflammatory benefits to the body.

By protecting and retaining healthy fatty acid levels, polyphenols influence the actions of those fatty acids, especially omega-3’s, which have been proven to influence healthy cholesterol levels and heart functions, vision and eye health, cognitive health, blood circulation, joint health and comfort, and much more.

Consuming red wine has often been seen as a pleasurable, as well as a social activity. Most individuals have never or will never think of this activity as doing something healthy for their body. Dietary habits that encourage wine consumption, such as those of the French and Mediterranean lifestyles, support the notion that wine provides beneficial components that can improve the quality of life. Research on wine consumption, as well as supplements that contain wine-related polyphenols, appears to be primarily positive and continues to grow.

New study for heart failure patients

Each year in the US, 400,000 people are diagnosed with heart failure. The combination of CoQ10 and Pycnogenol® is an effective, natural solution for patients who suffer from heart failure. Although the results of heart failure cannot be reversed, the natural alternative can help people manage this condition.

Research has shown that Coenzyme Q10 has the ability to strengthen the heart muscles, and Pycnogenol® can help strengthen the heart chamber walls and dilates arteries. A recent study showed improvement in blood flow and general heart health in patients with heart failure with a combination of Coenzyme Q10 and the branded pine bark extract Pycnogenol®.

The study involved heart failure patients between the ages of 54 and 68. The group was randomly assigned the combination of Pycnogenol® (pine bark)/ Coenzyme Q10 or a placebo. The results showed a greater decrease in blood pressure in the Pycnogenol®/ Coenzyme Q10 group than the placebo. The study also showed an increase in the amount of blood pumped by the heart.

With ever increasing healthcare costs, patients and doctors are seeking natural alternatives to improve health. A Pycnogenol / Coenzyme Q10 combination offers a promising alternative to heart failure patients without the side effects of traditional medications.

Curcumin may improve the outcome of tendonitis.

Turmeric has long been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of a range of health related conditions. Curcumin, a natural component of this spice, has been identified as being primarily responsible for turmeric’s activities. Research on curcumin has shown that it provides a variety of benefits such as improving antioxidant status, inflammatory conditions, immune functions, and cognitive health.
Preliminary research in people with arthritis found curcumin to be helpful in reducing inflammation and symptoms such as pain and stiffness. Based on this information, a recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry (August 2011) looked into the affects of curcumin on the inflammatory process of tendonitis. Tendonitis can cause swelling, pain, stiffness, and burning around a joint which not only can affect movement but can also last for months depending on the damage and treatment. This study looked at the direct impact of curcumin on human tendon cells. Researchers found that the curcumin not only helped to reduce existing inflammatory markers, it also helped to reduce the initiation and promotion of inflammation. Though more research is necessary, this study supports the potential role for curcumin in treating inflammatory conditions, especially those in relation to tendons and joints.

To read more on this study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3151097/

Welcome to the new look of nutraMetrix®!

nutraMetrix is excited to welcome you to the launch of its redesigned Web portal. The changes made highlight the revamped nutraMetrix brand and will help you take full advantage of your nutraMetrix Web portal. It is a great place to guide Health Professionals and their patients to the best nutraMetrix products and services. The new nutraMetrix Web portal serves as a central location for resources and information for patients. The new nutraMetrix.com includes:

• Detailed health regimens for reference
• Customizable profiles
• Product news & announcements
• Access to the latest studies and industry updates
• Navigation to nutraMetrix social media outlets

So start exploring the new nutraMetrix Web portal and let us know what you think!

Vitamin D may help to reduce the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

Vitamin D is rapidly becoming one of the most studied vitamins of our time. These studies have indicated that vitamin D is closely linked with several aspects of human health and survival. A new meta-analysis (collective review and analysis of previous studies) published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (July 2011), reported finding a clear correlation between vitamin D intake of greater than 500 IU per day and a 13% reduced risk for developing type-2 diabetes. It was also noted that those individuals with the highest blood levels of vitamin D (>25 ng/dl) had a 43% lower risk of developing type-2 diabetes than
those individuals with the lowest blood levels (<14 ng/ml). This research review shows that vitamin D may play a role in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes; however, more high quality studies will be needed to find how and to what extent it may be used in the course of this health-related condition.

To read more on this study:
http://www.nature.com/ejcn/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/ejcn2011118a.html

Vitamin E tocotrienols provide cholesterol benefits.

Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family that have been proven to influence several aspects of health such as neurological conditions and free radical reduction. Over the years, tocotrienols have often been overshadowed by a more commonly known form of vitamin E - tocopherol. Though both forms share some health related aspects, research is finding that tocotrienols might have a greater impact on human health than previously believed. A recent study published in Nutrition & Metabolism (June 2011) reported that 6 months supplementation with tocotrienols was associated with an improvement in plasma cholesterol levels, decrease in advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs), and increased vitamin E levels and antioxidant enzyme activity. This study included 62 subjects from two age groups, 35-49 years and 50+ years, who were randomly assigned to receive either the tocotrienols or placebo for the 6 month period. Both HDL cholesterol levels and total plasma HDL to cholesterol levels improved. The reduction in AGEs, which are normally occurring by-products of metabolism and aging that have been associated with the progression of age-related diseases, was correlated to a reduction in oxidative stress and protein damage. Though more research is needed to discover all of the benefits tocotrienols have to offer, this study supports the necessity for that research.

To read more on this study:
http://www.nutritionandmetabolism.com/content/pdf/1743-7075-8-42.pdf

Probiotics may ease bloating

Defined by the World Health Organization, probiotics are “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology has evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on bloating for people with bowel disorders. For this study, researchers recruited 60 people with functional bowel disorders but no constipation. Forty three of the test subjects were women and the average age of subjects was 37. A combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 or placebo was used for eight weeks. Questionnaires were completed by volunteers who also were asked to rate their relief of gastrointestinal symptoms on a seven-point scale. After eight weeks of treatment, subjects taking the probiotic combination had improved symptoms of bloating compared to placebo. This study adds to the growing base of data which supports probiotic use for certain bowel disorders and the role of probiotic bacteria in human health.

To read more on this study click here

Great Feedback from the Field

We are excited to share some great feedback from Jonathan, a Heath Professional from Washington, DC. Jonathan started off as a Preferred Customer; however, after trying nutraMetrix products himself, he began offering nutraMetrix products to his patients.

Since becoming a distributor for nutraMetrix, Jonathan says he was struck by two things: first, that he can offer alternatives to prescription drugs when clinically appropriate, and second, other health professionals are very interested in his findings.

Many of my patients had expressed a desire for a natural alternative to
their prescription medications, and before nutraMetrix, I never had an option
for them.

Jonathan’s story is an example of how nutraMetrix products can be beneficial to every type of health professional. nutraMetrix is getting more exposure each day and proving to be a leader in advanced nutraceuticals.

We encourage everyone to write in and tell us about your success stories. Email us at nutraMetrix@nutraMetrix.com or comment below!

Resveratrol improves insulin sensitivity in type-2 diabetics.

Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol found in a variety of vegetation such as grapes (skins) and Japanese knotweed, has been the focus of many studies over the last several years. Believed to affect a wide variety of processes within the body, resveratrol has been shown to produce many health related benefits. A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition (April 2011) reported a positive affect on insulin resistance and oxidative stress in humans.. Researchers recruited 19 (male) type-2 diabetics to receive a supplement containing 10 mg of resveratrol or placebo daily, for 4 weeks. When compared with the placebo group, those receiving resveratrol showed significant improvements in insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels, as well as delayed appearances of glucose peaks after test meals. Though more research is necessary to solidify resveratrol’s importance in combating high blood glucose levels and improving insulin sensitivity, this is the first study in humans to demonstrate that it does have some application this effect.

To read more on this study:
http://journals.cambridge.org/download.php?file=%2FBJN%2FS0007114511000316a.pdf&code=36b8f83cdc8121f2d69390f92ddf4fcd

Essential Fatty Acids and Premenstrual Syndrome Relief

A recent study published in Reproductive Health suggests that supplementation with essential fatty acids (EFA) can result in improved symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In this study, 120 women were randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1-gram EFA, 2-grams EFA, or placebo (mineral oil) for 6 months. PMS symptoms were recorded by the women using the Prospective Record of the Impact and Severity of Menstruation (PRISM) calendar. After 180 days of treatment with EFA or placebo, the results showed a significant difference between the treatment and placebo groups. Furthermore, improvement in symptoms was higher when the 2-gram dose of EFA was used. This study adds to the already growing base of evidence for the importance and use of EFA.

To read this research article, click here

Iron deficiency more prevalent during pregnancy than previously believed.

Iron is one of the most important nutrients for pregnant women. It is important for retaining the mother’s health, the formation of the placenta, the fetal blood supply and for the creation of iron stores which will sustain the child during the first few months of life. Unfortunately, as many doctors and women who have had children know, iron is one of the hardest nutrients to retain healthy levels of while pregnant. A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (March 2011) shows that iron needs during pregnancy may be more significant than previously known. This study, based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1999-2006) found that more pregnant US women had deficient total-body iron levels, especially during the second and third trimesters, than previously believed. Researchers believe these findings show the need for all pregnant women, as well as those wishing to become pregnant, to supplement with prenatal vitamins that provide good sources of iron. This research also appears to support several recent trials that have shown supplementation with iron can reduce the risk of low birth weight and preterm births. To read more on this study: http://www.ajcn.org/content/early/2011/03/23/ajcn.110.007195.abstract

New Dietary Guidelines for Americans

The USDA recently released revised dietary guidelines in the attempt to help Americans make better food choices, reduce risk of chronic disease, and reduce the prevalence of obesity.

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasizes the importance of reduced calorie consumption and increased physical activity. The new dietary guidelines encourage Americans to add more fruits and vegetables to their diets, along with increased whole grains and protein.

Based on the recommendations for the dietary guidelines, the components of a low GI (Glycemic Index) diet could prove beneficial. The new guidelines provide a breakdown of specific food items that decrease bad carbohydrates and increase good carbohydrates.

For example, new 2010 dietary guidelines specify 1 ½ cups per week of dark-green vegetables, 5 ½ cups per week of red and orange vegetables, 1 ½ cups per week of beans and peas, 5 cups per week of starchy vegetables and 4 cups per week of other vegetables (based on a 2,000 calories a day) for the vegetable food group.

To see more specific breakdowns of each food group, and Dietary Guidelines for children, vegetarians, vegans, the elderly, and pregnant women, please visit the USDA 2010 Dietary Guidelines.

In an attempt to help consumers make better choices, food manufacturers are putting more emphasis on product awareness. Claims such as whole grains low sodium, no trans-fats, and no added sugar are now showing on product labels.

The dietary guidelines are a good start, but keep in mind that social, cultural and economic pressures affect obesity and lack of physical activity. Getting adequate sleep, reducing your stress, getting daily exercise, and a daily vitamin supplement regimen can also help improve your overall being. Take the necessary steps to improve your health.

Supplements of magnesium may improve sensitivity to insulin

Magnesium is an important mineral that is essential for human health. Dietary surveys reveal that many Americans do not meet the RDA for magnesium (320 mg/d for women and 420 mg/d for men). The potential health benefits of magnesium have been gaining recent interest and it is reported as one of the fastest growing mineral supplements. A recent clinical trial evaluated the effect of oral magnesium supplementation on insulin sensitivity. Subjects received either 365 mg/day of magnesium or placebo for six months. Daily supplementation of the mineral improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose scores. The researchers suggest there are several mechanisms which may be responsible for the beneficial effect of magnesium on insulin sensitivity. They say these include, “direct effects of magnesium on the insulin receptor and its downstream signaling process, enhanced enzyme activities involved in glucose utilization, prevention of an intracellular calcium overload supposed to negatively affect insulin sensitivity, and finally, anti-inflammatory effects known to improve insulin resistance.” The study supports eating a wide variety of foods containing magnesium such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, beans and meats. Along with eating a healthy diet, magnesium supplementation can optimize health and possibly prevent certain diseases.

To read more, copy this title "Oral magnesium supplementation reduces insulin resistance in non-diabetic subjects - a double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial" and click here to paste in search bar

Mechanisms by which omega-3 fatty acids benefit eye health revealed

Omega-3 fatty acids provide many health benefits. Over the last several years, research involving omega-3 fatty acids has revealed a positive, direct effect on eye health. Retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), as well as other diseases that affect the nerves and tissues of the eye, negatively impact the lives of millions, often leading to impaired vision or blindness. A new study in Science Translational Medicine (February 2011) reviewed the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on eye health and the pathways by which its beneficial effects occur. It was found that 4-HDHA, a metabolite of the omega-3 fatty acid, DHA, selectively promoted the growth of healthy blood vessels while inhibiting the growth of abnormal (unhealthy) vessels. Researchers believe these findings further highlight the beneficial effects of this omega-3 fatty acid and may serve as a foundation for exploring new treatment regimes for eye-related diseases as well as other diseases that affect the body.

To read more on this study:

Micronutrients may work in tandem with probiotics

Probiotic supplementation continues to grow at a rapid pace as consumers learn more about the benefits that probiotics have to offer. When used in the formulation of foods, probiotics have the ability to increase bioavailability of certain micronutrients, including zinc and iron. A recent study published in BioFactors has determined that micronutrients, when taken in combination with certain probiotics, may boost the beneficial effects of the bacteria. The study looked specifically at the influence of selected micronutrients, phytochemical and dietary factors (including zinc, iron, quercetin, gallic acid, phytic acid and oxalic acid) on the growth of probiotics. Both quercetin and zinc sulphate showed positive effects for Lactobacillus acidophilus and other lactobacilli and bifidobacteria species. Researchers also observed that zinc sulphate, ferrous sulphate, quercetin and oxalic acid inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli, suggesting their presence might assist probiotics in the resistance against pathogens. As more studies will be needed to determine the exact clinical significance micronutrients have on probiotics, this study reinforces the great benefits of probiotics and suggests how probiotics in combination with other nutrients may boost those benefits even more.

For more details click here

Optimal levels of vitamin D may help to reduce the occurrence of frailty in the elderly.

Research has proven there is a clear link between vitamin D blood levels and several health related conditions. Unfortunately this research has failed to discover a clear understanding of what is or isn’t the optimal level of vitamin D necessary to achieve and retain good health. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (December 2010), measured plasma levels of vitamin D and assessed frailty status in 4551 elderly women approximately 69 years of age. Results of testing showed vitamin D levels between 20 ng/ml - 30 ng/ml appeared to provide optimal protection against the development of frailty. Levels below or above this range were associated with an increased risk for frailty, with the lowest levels offering the greatest risk. Researchers pointed out that the number of women whose vitamin D status exceeded 30 ng/ml was relatively small and so further research is necessary to give a better understanding of how higher vitamin D levels affect the body.

To read more on this study:
http://jcem.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/95/12/5266