CLINICAL UPDATE - SELENIUM: KNOW IF YOU HAVE TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THINGAn exhaustive review of the benefits selenium has on human health emphasizes that there is a definite “U-shaped link with status.” The paper epitomizes the philosophy that more-is-not-always-better for vitamins and minerals. Although low selenium status has been linked to several diseases – heart disease, infertility, low immunity, poor cognitive function, thyroid disease and cancer – the authors state that although “additional selenium intake may benefit individuals with low status, those with adequate status might be affected adversely and should not take selenium supplements.”
(Lancet, March 2012)LINK to ABSTRACT Selenium and human health.
CLINICAL UPDATE - NUTRIENT DEFICIENCY CAUSING HEAVY METAL TOXICITY?A case study on a 37 year old man suggests that multiple micronutrient deficiencies played a role in the cause of his multiple sclerosis. The authors state he had several key nutrient deficiencies, which they think impaired his ability to excrete harmful metals. They sate that “nutritional treatment may be an effective approach to this disease” due to the role of nutrients in various detoxification pathways.
(Current Aging Science, Epub ahead of print in August 2011)LINK to ABSTRACT Influence of Essential Trace Minerals and Micronutrient Insufficiencies on Harmful Metal Overload in a Mongolian Patient with Multiple Sclerosis.
CLINICAL UPDATE - META-ANALYSIS FINDS VITAMIN C SUPPLEMENTS LOWER BLOOD PRESSUREIn a review of 29 randomized controlled trials of oral vitamin C, authors found that vitamin C supplements reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The reduction in blood pressure was more pronounced in people with existing hypertension. In another meta-analysis, magnesium supplementation also lowered blood pressure.
(American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2012; European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, April 2012)LINK to ABSTRACT Effects of vitamin C supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
LINK to ABSTRACT Effect of magnesium supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis.
CLINICAL UPDATE - FOLIC ACID LOWERS OXIDATIVE STRESS IN HYPOTHYROIDISMIn two separate studies, antioxidant function was evaluated after hypothyroidism was induced. Since basal metabolic rate is lower in hypothyroism and most oxidative stress in the body stems from basic metabolic functions, some researchers hypothesize that hypothyroidism should result in lower levels of oxidative stress. But in this recent animal study, the authors found higher levels of oxidative stress in the hypothyroid (vs normal thyroid) state, as well as higher levels of homocysteine. Treatment with folic acid ameliorated these effects. In another study, authors found that hypothyroidism reduced antioxidant function, although the serum levels of several antioxidants.
(vitamins A, C & E) remained constant. (Toxicology and Industrial Health, April 2012; Endokrynologia Polska, 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT The effect of folic acid as an antioxidant on the hypothalamic monoamines in experimentally induced hypothyroid rat.
LINK to ABSTRACT Elements of oxidation/reduction balance in experimental hypothyroidism.
LINK to FREE FULL TEXTLINK to NUTRIENT INTERACTION CHART FOR HYPOTHYROIDISM
CLINICAL UPDATE - COQ10 PROTECTS LIVER FROM ACETAMINOPHEN TOXICITYA single toxic dose of acetaminophen was administered in an animal study and liver damage was monitored. After 1 hour and after 12 hours, an injection of coenzyme Q10 was given. The results showed that the coQ10 injections protected the liver from acetaminophen-induced damage. The coQ10 also attenuated the loss of zinc and selenium that occurred after acetaminophen administration.
(Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, March 2012)LINK to ABSTRACT Hepatoprotective effect of coenzyme Q10 in rats with acetaminophen toxicity.
CLINICAL UPDATE - VITAMIN E MAY HELP INFERTILE WOMEN103 women with unexplained infertility were divided into two groups – 50 women were given a drug to induce ovulation (clomiphene citrate) combined with 400IU per day of vitamin E and 53 women were induced to ovulate without the administration of vitamin E. The supplemented group had a significantly thicker endometrium and authors suggest that vitamin E may be beneficial to women with unexplained infertility by improving the “endometrial response” and that it may “modulate the antiestrogenic effect of clomiphene citrate.”
(Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, February 2012)LINK to ABSTRACT Vitamin E effect on controlled ovarian stimulation of unexplained infertile women.
CLINICAL UPDATE - BIOTIN DEFICIENCY IMPAIRS CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISMResearchers found that biotin deficiency negatively alters carbohydrate metabolism. Specifically, biotin deficiency resulted in an impaired glucose and insulin tolerance test, suggesting “defects in insulin sensitivity,” according to the authors.
(Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, April 2012)LINK to ABSTRACT Effects of biotin deficiency on pancreatic islet morphology, insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis.
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It’s your week, medical laboratory professionals and pathologists!
National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week is an annual celebration of the medical laboratory professionals and pathologists who play a vital role in every aspect of health care. Since they often work behind the scenes, few people know about the critical testing they perform every day. Lab Week is a time to honor the more than 300,000 medical laboratory professionals around the country who perform and interpret more than 10 billion laboratory tests in the US every year which contribute in the diagnosis and prevention of disease!
The theme for Lab Week, Laboratory Professionals Get Results, demonstrates the commitment these professionals have to the medical community. Reinforce your commitment to delivering the best medical laboratory science services to patients and colleagues.
Without your knowledge and expertise, patient care would be impossible. We applaud your tireless efforts and commitment to patients and the patient care team. We commend your drive to learn more, innovate, and advance science in laboratory medicine. Each week, but especially this week, let’s celebrate together your dedication and contributions to the best care for patients.
Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication!
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Guest Blog by: Dr. Karl R.O.S. Johnson (D.C.)
If you have gluten intolerance like I do, you will have nutritional deficiencies. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to a wind up of the immune system thereby worsening autoimmunity and/or the devlopment of additional diseases. Often only iron, sodium and postasium levels are checked on routine blood tests.
You Owe It To Yourself To Get Your Nutrient Levels Checked
Many researchers feel this paltry testing is not comprehensive enough. Deficiencies of magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K, omega 3 fats, amino acids, glutathione and other important micronutrients are typically lowered with gluten intolerance. This is mainily due initially to increased systemic inflammation, which places a greater burden on the enzymes of detoxification as well as other enzymes.
Chemical reactions in our body are catalyzed by enzymes, and vitamins and minerals are the co-factors that allow enzymes to work. Enzymes cannot function without adequate vitamins. Just as your car cannot work without the ignition key or tires, enzymes are stalled without minerals and vitamins.
One of the best ways to measure vitamins and other micronutrients is through SpectraCell Micronutrient Testing. This patented process resulted from 18 years of research at the University of Texas. The micronutrient test measures the biochemical function of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, providing me a powerful clinical assessment tool in order to help you recover your health.
Signs of nutritional deficiencies on standard blood tests are high homocysteine levels, high MCV and MCH as well as low iron, potassium, protein and albumin. All these and other markers of body malfunction are easier to detect using functional blood chemistry analysis and can be missed using the typical standard broad average lab ranges. Using functional blood chemistry analysis is an important and unique reason why I often am able to detect earlier signs of health deterioration. Check out the link to my functional blood chemistry analysis page for more information on this topic.
When your body enzymes are less able to function due to nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune processes get a chance to ramp up, leading to additional tissues to be targeted for attack.
Results: Coeliac patients showed a higher total plasma homocysteine level than the general population, indicative of a poor vitamin status. In accordance, the plasma levels of folate and pyridoxal 5″-phosphate (active form of vitamin B-6) were low in 37% and 20%, respectively, and accounted for 33% of the variation of the total plasma homocysteine level (P < 0.008). The mean daily intakes of folate and vitamin B-12, but not of vitamin B-6, were significantly lower in coeliac patients than in controls.
Conclusions: Half of the adult coeliac patients carefully treated with a gluten-free diet for several years showed signs of a poor vitamin status. This may have clinical implications considering the linkage between vitamin deficiency, elevated total plasma homocysteine levels and cardiovascular disease. The results may suggest that, when following up adults with coeliac disease, the vitamin status should be reviewed."[1]
The bottom line take away message is this: It's not enough to treat the symptoms of an illness or disease. The prudent clinician will look for underlying causes of imbalances in the patients' bodily processes, and work with the patient to regain balance. Often this is accomplished with dietary changes, specific supplementation, lifestyle changes and neurological rehabilitation.
Dr. Karl R.O.S. Johnson, D.C. - Help My Chronic Condition & Pain
For more information about our client Dr. Johnson, please visit his website or his blog. Or contact him at (586) 731-8840.
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CLINICAL UPDATE - OFFICE WORKERS GAIN ENERGY WHEN GIVEN VITAMIN C AT WORK
A double-blind randomized trial on 141 healthy volunteers aged 20 to 49 years old was performed in which one group received 10 grams of vitamin C intravenously while a placebo group received saline intravenously. Fatigue scores, oxidative stress and plasma vitamin C and side effects were all measured. Fatigue levels, at two hours and one day post supplementation, were significantly reduced in the group receiving vitamin C, especially in those whose initial vitamin C levels were particularly low. No major side effects were reported in either group. (Nutrition Journal, January 2012)
LINK to ABSTRACT Intravenous vitamin C administration reduces fatigue in office workers: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.
LINK to FREE FULL TEXT
CLINICAL UPDATE - SUPPLEMENT COCKTAIL IN RANDOMIZED TRIAL MADE TRAUMA WOUNDS HEAL TWICE AS FAST
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 20 trauma patients were given oral antioxidants (vitamin A, C, E, zinc, selenium and glutamine) or placebo for two weeks. Time to wound closure in the supplemented group was five weeks while it took 10 weeks for wound closure to occur in the placebo group. Interestingly, the authors noted that “despite normal plasma levels, intracellular deprivation may occur,” indicating that intracellular measures of nutrients were more clinically relevant that serum levels. (Clinical Nutrition, January 2012)
LINK to ABSTRACT Time to wound closure in trauma patients with disorders in wound healing is shortened by supplements containing antioxidant micronutrients and glutamine: A PRCT.
CLINICAL UPDATE - VITAMIN D AND K DEFICIENCIES ARE COMMON IN PATIENTS WITH BOWEL DISEASE
Bone mineral density and levels of vitamin D and K, both of which play a vital role in bone development, were measured in 87 patients that had either Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Researchers found that bone vitamin K was insufficient in patients with Crohn’s disease and the low levels contributed to the inflammatory process of Crohn’s disease. Levels of vitamin D were also lower in patients with low bone density when compared to healthy controls. (Nutrition, October 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Association of vitamin K deficiency with bone metabolism and clinical disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease.
CLINICAL UPDATE - CLINICAL TRIAL OF B12 SUPPLEMENTS SHOW THEY IMPROVE COGNITIVE FUNCTION; 1 IN 20 I DEFICIENT
A randomized controlled trial was performed on 900 elderly adults with depressive symptoms. The participants were given 400μg of folic acid and 100μg of vitamin B12 daily for two years. Cognitive function was evaluated at one year and two years. Researchers found an improvement in memory performance after two years of supplementation when compared to placebo. In a different study, almost 5% of a group of 5600 people of all ages were found to be deficient in B12. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2012; American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, October 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Oral folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplementation to prevent cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms--the Beyond Ageing Project: a randomized controlled trial.
LINK to ABSTRACT Vitamin B-12 and homocysteine status in a folate-replete population: results from the Canadian Health Measures Survey.
CLINICAL UPDATE - OMEGA 3S ARE EFFECTIVE IN TREATING BIPOLAR DEPRESSION, BUT NOT MANIA
A meta-analysis on the clinical administration of omega 3 fatty acids specifically for treatment of bipolar depression and bipolar mania provided strong evidence that omega 3s were effective in mitigating the symptoms of depression. Interestingly, the meta-analysis, which included five studies with 291 total bipolar patients, did not show any benefit of omega 3 fatty acids in treating bipolar mania. (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, January 2012)
LINK to ABSTRACT Omega-3 for bipolar disorder: meta-analyses of use in mania and bipolar depression.
CLINICAL UPDATE - NEW RESEARCH SHEDS LIGHT ON THE ROLE OF MANGANESE IN TUMOR SUPPRESSOR GENE
Interesting animal research on the powerful antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase shows that this antioxidant is controlled by a gene (p53) that actually switches on or off, depending on the stage of cancer – it turns off in early tumor growth and turns on in late stages of cancer. (Cancer Research, November 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Manganese superoxide dismutase is a p53-regulated gene that switches cancers between early and advanced stages.
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CLINICAL UPDATE - Adding Carnitine to Drug Therapy Improves Clinical Benefit in Diabetes, Colitis and Hepatitis
Three unrelated trials all demonstrated that carnitine, which transports fatty acids into the mitochondria, improved clinical outcomes when it was added to drug therapy, when compared to drug therapy alone. Dosages ranged from 1-2 grams per day in the trials. Specifically, diabetics on orlistat therapy showed improvements in sugar and lipid metabolism and lower inflammation when 2grams per day of carnitine was added to their orlistat. Similarly, carnitine reduced fatigue in hepatitis patients on anti-viral drugs. Finally, adding 1 gram per day of carnitine lowers colitis remission rates on patients taking antibiotics. (Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology, October 2011; Journal of Interferon and Cytokine Research, September 2011; Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, November 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Comparison between orlistat plus l-carnitine and orlistat alone on inflammation parameters in obese diabetic patients.
LINK to ABSTRACT The supplementation of acetyl-L-carnitine decreases fatigue and increases quality of life in patients with hepatitis C treated with pegylated interferon-α 2b plus ribavirin.
LINK to ABSTRACT Randomised clinical trial: the efficacy and safety of propionyl-L-carnitine therapy in patients with ulcerative colitis receiving stable oral treatment.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Chromium Supplements Improve Insulin Sensitivity in Randomized Trial
In this small randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial on overweight children aged 9-12 years old, 400μg of chromium chloride given for 6 weeks improved insulin sensitivity and raised lean body mass while lowering their percentage of body fat. (Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, November 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Effects of short-term chromium supplementation on insulin sensitivity and body composition in overweight children: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Calcium and Vitamin D Shown to Reduce Abdominal Fat in Clinical Trial
Two double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were conducted in which 171 people were given either orange juice fortified with 350mg of calcium and 100IU of vitamin D or non-fortified orange juice. After four months, the average weight loss in both groups was the same – about 5 ½ pounds – but scans revealed that in the group supplemented with calcium and vitamin D, the loss of visceral (abdominal) fat was significantly greater than the loss of subcutaneous fat. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2012)
LINK to ABSTRACT Calcium and vitamin D supplementation is associated with decreased abdominal visceral adipose tissue in overweight and obese adults.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Multivitamins to Improve Health Gain Credibility
Two studies – one long term (6 years) and one short term (1 month) – demonstrated that multivitamin usage improved cognitive and physical performance in healthy adults. The first study included over 4400 people ages 45-60 years old and measured cognitive performance, which improved when compared to placebo when participants took a multivitamin with vitamins A,C and E combined with selenium and zinc. The second study was much smaller – only 31 participants, all healthy – but demonstrated that short term administration of a multivitamin reduced inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 while improving measures of physical performance associated with exercise. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, September 2011; Nutrition Journal, September 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT French adults' cognitive performance after daily supplementation with antioxidant vitamins and minerals at nutritional doses: a post hoc analysis of the Supplementation in Vitamins and Mineral Antioxidants (SU.VI.MAX) trial.
LINK to ABSTRACT A multi-nutrient supplement reduced markers of inflammation and improved physical performance in active individuals of middle to older age: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
LINK to FREE FULL TEXT
CLINICAL UPDATE - Raising Antioxidant Status in Pregnancy Lowers Chance of Allergies in Offspring
In this review of 18 studies, the authors concluded that higher antioxidant status during pregnancy reduced the likelihood of allergic symptoms in children including asthma, wheezing and eczema. (Nutrition Reviews, November 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Association between biomarker-quantified antioxidant status during pregnancy and infancy and allergic disease during early childhood: a systematic review.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Oleic Acid Levels Predict Insulin Resistance
A group of 361 non-diabetic men and women were evaluated for insulin resistance. The same group’s blood was measured for specific fatty acid content. In this group (where one fourth were clinically insulin resistant), only levels of oleic acid, commonly found in olive oil, was a significant predictor of insulin resistance, compared with other fatty acids. (Clinical Nutrition, October 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Inverse association between serum phospholipid oleic acid and insulin resistance in subjects with primary dyslipidaemia.
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Guest blog by: Dr. Mike Carragher
Telomere length gives us a unique view of how your cells are aging. Knowing this can help you decide how aggressive your anti-aging program should be.
Telomeres are sections of genetic material at the end of each chromosome whose primary function is to prevent chromosomal “fraying” when a cell replicates. Think of the plastic tip of shoelaces, protecting the shoelace. Telomeres protect chromosomes in the same way. As a cell ages, its telomeres become shorter. Eventually, the telomeres become too short to allow cell replication, the cell stops dividing and will ultimately die – a normal biological process.
Telomere testing measures the ‘biological age’ of your cells. It is one of the newest advancements in age management and anti-aging. It’s a simple blood test. Telomere testing determines the length of a person’s telomeres in relation to their age.
Evaluation of telomere length is an indicator of how rapidly one ages relative to a normal population. Therapies directed at slowing the loss of telomere length may slow aging and age-related diseases. Therefore it has a role in any anti-aging/age management program.
Hormones and Telomere Length
Scientists have found that telomerase, the enzyme that repairs and regulates telomeres, is controlled and activated by hormones. Therefore, in order to keep ourselves healthy and with a high quality of life, I believe we must maintain all our hormones at optimal levels. Letting those hormones drop is to let the telomeres get short. When telomeres get short, cells age. Aging causes disease, and death follows. Studies show that optimal levels of the hormones testosterone and estrogen levels help preserve telomere length.
Optimal Human Growth Hormone (HGH) levels are also associated with telomere length. A 2009 study published by The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism looked at 2744 men and found that telomere length was positively associated with serum IGF-1 levels. IGF-1 is the indirect measurement of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) in the body. This positive association is reassuring to me when it comes to optimizing HGH levels.
Nutrition and Telomere Length
An inflammatory diet, or one that increases oxidative stress, will shorten telomeres faster. This includes refined carbohydrates, fast foods, processed foods, sodas, artificial sweeteners, trans fats and saturated fats. A diet with a large amount and variety of antioxidants that improves oxidative defense and reduces oxidative stress will slow telomere shortening. Consumption of 10 servings of fresh and relatively uncooked fruits and vegetables, mixed fiber, monounsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, cold water fish, and high quality vegetable proteins will help preserve telomere length.
Lifestyle and Telomere Length
One should achieve ideal body weight and body composition with low body fat (less than 22 % for women and less than 16 % for men). Decreasing visceral fat is very important. Regular targeted aerobic and resistance exercise, using burst training to optimize human growth hormone release, sleeping for at least 8 hours per night to optimize hormones, stress reduction to optimize cortisol, and discontinuation of all tobacco products are strongly recommended.
Nutritional Supplements and Telomere Length
Oxidative stress will shorten telomere length and cause aging in cellular tissue. Antioxidant supplements can potentially reduce oxidative stress very effectively, which will ultimately improve oxidative defenses, mitochondrial function, reduce inflammation and slow vascular aging. Targeted supplementation is key, as antioxidants work synergistically and must be balanced to work most effectively and avoid inducing a pro-oxidant effect. My favorite antioxidants are Alpha-Lipoic Acid, Melatonin, and Marine Krill Oil.
When Should Testing Be Considered?
I recommend testing once per year to evaluate the rate of aging and make adjustments in hormonal optimization, nutrition, nutritional supplements, weight management, exercise and other lifestyle modifications known to influence telomere length.
To learn more about telomere and micronutrient testing, please visit our website at www.spectracell.com.
Dr. Mike Carragher, M.D.- The Body Well
For more information about our client Dr. Carragher, please visit his blog or contact him at (323) 874-9355.
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CLINICAL UPDATE - Lab Testing Offered By Employers Identifies Chronic Disease in 1/3 Participants
A recent study reviewed lab testing that was offered free to over 52,000 employees through their employer-sponsored health risk assessment programs. It was found that 36% of first time participants had a newly identified chronic disease such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes or kidney disease. Interestingly, nearly all participants had medical insurance, indicating that employer-sponsored laboratory testing can facilitate earlier diagnosis for many chronic diseases more efficiently than conventional access to health care. (PLoS One, December 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Value of laboratory tests in employer-sponsored health risk assessments for newly identifying health conditions: analysis of 52,270 participants.
LINK to FREE FULL TEXT
CLINICAL UPDATE - New Research Says Plasma Levels of Micronutrients Not Reliable Indicators of Deficiency
Plasma levels of zinc, copper, selenium and vitamins A, B6, C and E were measured in over 1300 patients in addition to the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein. Researchers found that as the inflammatory response increased, plasma levels of micronutrients decreased but the amount in which they decreased varied significantly from patient to patient, leading researchers to conclude that plasma levels of nutrients,on their own, are not reliable clinical indicators of deficiency. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2012)
LINK to ABSTRACT Quantitative data on the magnitude of the systemic inflammatory response and its effect on micronutrient status based on plasma measurements.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Hypothyroidism Lowers Antioxidant Function, Even When Serum Levels of Antioxidants Remain Constant
Hypothyroidism was induced in two different animal studies and various biomarkers of antioxidant function were measured. Specifically, the powerful antioxidants superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and levels of vitamins A, C and E were measured as well as other functional measures of antioxidant status. Researchers found that antioxidant function was diminished only in hypothyroid state compared to normal thyroid function, but levels of the antioxidant vitamins did not change, suggesting that functional measures of antioxidant status are more clinically relevant than serum levels. (Polish Journal of Endocrinology, 2011; Experimental Physiology, August 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Elements of oxidation/reduction balance in experimental hypothyroidism.
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LINK to ABSTRACT Liver glutathione S-transferase expression is decreased by 3,5,3-triiodothyronine in hypothyroid but not in euthyroid mice.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Vitamin D Supplements Decrease CRP in Patients with Colorectal Tumors
In a randomized controlled clinical trial on 92 patients with benign colorectal tumors, patients were given 2grams per day of calcium and/ or 800IU per day of vitamin D. After 6 months, C-reactive protein in the vitamin D supplemented group decreased 32% relative to placebo. Several other markers of inflammation were also decreased in the vitamin D group compared to placebo: TNF-α, interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β and interleukin-8. (Cancer Prevention Research, October 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Effects of supplemental vitamin D and calcium on biomarkers of inflammation in colorectal adenoma patients: a randomized, controlled clinical trial.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Only Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplements High in EPA Benefit Depression
A meta-analysis on the effects of omega 3 fatty acids on depression confirmed the hypothesis that EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is the effective ingredient against depression versus DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which is more protective for cardiovascular benefits. Specifically, supplements with less than 60% EPA were ineffective against depression while supplements with over 60% EPA in dosages ranging from 200mg to 2200mg per day were effective. Researchers suggest that this explains some of the discrepancies in trials of omega 3 fatty acids on depression – with some trials reporting positive results while other trials show no benefit. (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, December 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Meta-analysis of the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in clinical trials in depression.
CLINICAL UPDATE - Lipoprotein Particle Number Predicts Hardening of the Arteries
A study on 284 asymptomatic patients at intermediate risk for heart disease showed that total LDL particle number has a stronger association with coronary artery calcification than traditional lipid testing. In fact, patients with the highest number of LDL particles were 3.7 times more likely to have hardening in their arteries as patients in the lowest third. (Journal of Clinical Lipidology, September 2011)
LINK to ABSTRACT Low-density lipoprotein particle number predicts coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic adults at intermediate risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Effectively immediately, SpectraCell Laboratories will include a personalized assessment of your body’s immune function on every micronutrient test it performs. Called Immunidex™, this score tells a patient how well their immune system can respond to outside threats. The Immunidex™, which is now automatically included on every micronutrient test report, is only available from SpectraCell and does not add to the price of the micronutrient test.
Specifically, the Immunidex™ is an indicator of how well a person’s lymphocytes respond to challenges from either the environment or potential disease burdens. In other words, if the Immunidex is high, the person had a stronger immune response. The Immunidex™ score uses a patented technology for assessing cellular function, unique to SpectraCell Laboratories. As a result, no other lab offers this type of indicator.
“When people think immunity, they think colds and infections. But cell-mediated immune function is a major defense against degenerative disease like heart disease, cancer and arthritis.” states Dr. Fred Crawford, PhD, Vice President and Director of Operations for SpectraCell Laboratories. “And since nutritional deficiencies profoundly impact a person’s immune function, including it on the micronutrient test report makes perfect sense. Correct your deficiencies, and in the majority of patients, immune function improves.”
Each person responds to an immune challenge differently. Younger people usually have a stronger immune response than the elderly. Those with fewer, or less severe, nutritional deficiencies also will typically have healthier immune responses. In addition, a person’s ability to fight oxidative stress in their bodies is correlated with healthy immune function. Spectrox™, which measures a person’s response to oxidative stress and is also included on their micronutrient test, often correlates with Immunidex™ so that that higher the Spectrox™ score, the higher the Immunidex™ and vice versa.
SpectraCell’s micronutrient test, which now includes Immunidex™ retails for $370 and includes a panel of 34 antioxidants, vitamins and minerals . It does not need to be ordered by a doctor unless the patient plans to submit it to insurance. It is a simple blood test and takes about two weeks to receive results. Over 3000 doctors currently use SpectraCell’s micronutrient test in their practice. More information on ordering micronutrient testing and Immunidex™ can be found at www.spectracell.com.
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Are you ready to achieve optimal health and reduce your risk of chronic diseases?
OSTEOPOROSIS
Good bone health is not as simple as getting enough calcium. In order to absorb calcium and reduce bone loss, proper vitamin D, K and C levels are crucial. Additionally, several vitamins and minerals are necessary for the prevention of osteoporosis as well as the painful bone disease, osteomalacia. Vitamin K is a major factor in building bone proteins while the amino acid carnitine can improve bone mineral density and zinc deficiency can negatively affect bone integrity.
PMS
Several symptoms of PMS are alleviated by specific nutrients and worsened by deficiencies. Since ovarian hormones influence calcium, magnesium and vitamin D metabolism, the evaluation of how each nutrient is functioning in a woman’s body reveals crucial information. In clinical trials, zinc has reduced and sometimes eliminated menstrual cramping; calcium and vitamin D can mitigate premenstrual headaches; and magnesium plus vitamin B6 supplementation can reduce the anxiety often felt in women suffering from PMS.
HORMONES & HRT
The delicate balance of hormones is profoundly affected by nutritional deficiencies. Micronutrients can actually function as a hormone (vitamin D for example) or, in most cases, hormones are regulated by nutrients. Research shows that synthetic Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can negatively affect mineral levels of calcium, copper, chromium, magnesium, selenium and zinc and certain vitamins, while reducing important antioxidants.
MENOPAUSE
Menopausal women are at a higher risk for micronutrient deficiencies. This is due largely to the fact that as we age, our bodies are less efficient at absorption, but also due to the oxidative stress that accompanies normal aging. As a woman enters menopause, her risk for cardiovascular disease also increases, partly because certain vitamins that protect against heart disease become deficient. For example, folic acid and B vitamin supplementation in women can help blood vessels remain pliable and clear while improving a woman’s lipid profile. In some women, high estrogen levels are associated with low magnesium levels, which consequently affect blood pressure and several negative menopausal symptoms.
BREAST CANCER
Several key nutrients are critical for maintaining healthy breast tissue. Low antioxidant status is linked to higher rates of breast and other cancers. In fact, antioxidants such as coenzyme Q10, cysteine and vitamin A have been shown to mitigate DNA damage in cancerous tissue and inhibit hormonal toxicities that can initiate cancerous cells. Other studies have shown that adequate vitamin D and calcium levels can lower risk by more than 70%.
PREGNANCY
The demands for specific nutrients during pregnancy and lactation are particularly taxing on a mother, often draining her nutritional reserves. Since nutritional deficiencies can be passed from a mother to her baby, accurate and targeted diagnostic testing is important before, during and post-partum. Targeted supplementation may also reduce pregnancy complications: coenzyme Q10 and selenium reduce risk of pre-eclampsia, vitamin D can decrease bacterial infections, vitamin A and B2 can alleviate pregnancy anemia, trace elements can reduce pregnancy induced hypertension, and folic acid, biotin and B vitamins may help in the reduction of birth defects.
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH
Overwhelming evidence suggests that infertility issues stem from low antioxidant status. Deficiencies in vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, magnesium, folate as well as the powerful antioxidant cysteine have been linked to infertility. In many cases, targeted repletion is very beneficial with fertility and related issues like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome.
SpectraCell’s micronutrient testing assesses your vitamin, mineral and antioxidant deficiencies on the cellular level. This unique testing provides you with individualized results to determine what nutrients your body needs to reduce your risk of chronic diseases and live a healthier life.
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UNDERSTANDING DIABETES
According to the American Diabetes Association, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. With this type of diabetes, cells do not receive enough insulin. As a result, cells starve for energy, and, over time, a glucose buildup in the blood stream causes negative effects on a person’s eyes, kidneys, nerves and/or heart.
Today’s fast-paced society has led to quicker, higher carbohydrate alternatives as food sources. As a result, there is a greater threat of developing diabetes due to cells becoming insulin-resistant.
Micronutrients such as niacin, magnesium, calcium, zinc, carnitine, inositol, alpha-lipoic acid, as well as vitamins E, B6 and D all play an important role in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
Though diabetes is a serious disease - with the right treatment - living a longer, healthier life can be made easier.
THE ROLE OF MICRONUTRIENTS IN DIABETIC HEALTH
NIACIN
Niacin (nicotinamide) may help to preserve residual B-cell function in individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. This B-vitamin is believed to be one of the components of the glucose tolerance factor (GTF).
MAGNESIUM
This mineral is involved in more than 300 enzymatic functions in the body. Magnesium deficiency has been associated with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia and hypertension, which have all been associated with diabetes mellitus. Magnesium has been found to be one of the more common micronutrient deficiencies in diabetes.
VITAMIN E
Low levels of vitamin E are associated with increased incidences of diabetes. Research suggests that individuals with diabetes mellitus have decreased levels of antioxidants. Increased antioxidant requirements may be a result of increased free radical production during periods of hyperglycemia.
ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID (THIOCTIC ACID)
This antioxidant has been shown to regenerate other antioxidants such as glutathione, vitamin E and vitamin C. Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to enhance glucose uptake in skeletal muscle tissue, thus improving glucose regulation in diabetic mellitus individuals. In addition, this antioxidant can be beneficial in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy.
VITAMIN D
Obesity is often associated with vitamin D deficiency and also with type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that diabetic individuals (both type 1 and type 2) have a higher risk for bone fracture. This vitamin deficiency has clearly been associated with lower bone density. Subjects with hypovitaminosis D are at higher risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
CHROMIUM
This trace mineral is fundamental in proper insulin function and is believed to facilitate the attachment of insulin to the cell’s insulin receptors. A lack of chromium can lead to insulin resistance, which leads to elevated blood levels of insulin and glucose. Elevated levels of glucose in the blood can lead to diabetes and cardiovascular complications. Food processing
removes most of naturally occurring chromium. However, chromium can be supplemented or found in brewer’s yeast, nuts, meat, whole grains, green beans and broccoli.
HOMOCYSTEINE
Homocysteine elevation is a risk factor for overall mortality in type 2 diabetic individuals independent of other risk factors. Adequate levels of pyroxidine (vitamin B6), folate and vitamin B12 are required for normal homocysteine metabolism.
INOSITOL
This nutrient is found in high concentrations in peripheral nerves. There is some evidence that inositol may be effective in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy.
VITAMIN B6
Research shows that a deficiency of vitamin B6 may result in abnormal glucose tolerance, degeneration of the pancreatic beta cells, reduced insulin response to glucose and reduced serum and pancreatic insulin levels. In addition, vitamin B6 deficiency has been associated with polyneuropathies.
CALCIUM
Studies have shown that individuals with a low intake of calcium have an increased risk of non-insulin dependant diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have also revealed that diabetes may be associated with abnormal regulation of intracellular calcium.
ZINC
This mineral has been associated with over 200 enzymatic functions in the body. Increased fasting blood glucose levels have been associated with low zinc. Zinc has been shown to be important in the synthesis, storage and secretion of insulin. Increased urinary zinc excretion has also been associated with diabetic individuals.
CARNITINE
This amino acid in the form of acetyl-L-carnitine has been shown to benefit those individuals with diabetic polyneuropathy. One of the proposed mechanisms is that this amino acid may restore the depleted nerve myoinositol content and decrease free radical production.
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