Protect your GUTS with PREBIOTICS and PROBIOTICS

Our gastrointestinal tract is the first line of defence for the immune system, populated by more than 100 trillion bacteria of 500 species, both bad and good (probiotics). The good ones attach to the walls of our intestine and act as "soldiers", providing a defense against pathogens. Antibiotics/medications, aging, stress, alcohol and poor dietary habits can eliminate the protectors, rendering us more susceptible to diseases or health problems. A healthy lower intestine should have at least 85% good bacteria for life supporting, in helping to digest food and produce beneficial chemical compounds to keep the harmful bacteria at bay and thus our health in check.





History of probiotics

In the early 20th Century, a Professor Metchnikoff at the Pasteur Institute in Paris proposed the hypothesis that the aging process results from the activity of putrefactive microbes producing toxic substances in the large intestines, including phenols, indols and ammonia from the digestion of proteins. This “intestinal auto-intoxication” process causes the physical changes associated with illness and old age.

At the same time, he observed that certain rural populations in Europe, for example in Bulgaria and the Russian steppes who lived largely on milk fermented by lactic-acid bacteria enjoyed good health and longevity. It was believed that milk fermented with lactic-acid bacteria inhibits the growth of such toxic bacteria because of the high acidity produced by the fermentation of lactose. He started off by introducing in his diet sour milk fermented with the bacteria he named “Bulgarian Bacillus” and saw much health improvement.

Types of probiotics

There are more than 50 species of LACTOBACILLI and are naturally found in the digestive (mainly small intestine), urinary and genital systems. Foods that are fermented like yogurt and dietary supplements contain these bacteria, namely Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus blugaricus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei etc which can help to prevent yeast infections, herpes, vaginal yeast infection, cyctitis, irritable bowel syndrome, antibiotic-related diarrhoea, lactose intolerance, skin disorders (eg. psoriasis), respiratory infections and control of cholesterol. Animal studies showed that they can help to reduce polyps and colon cancer.

A specie active in the upper digestive tract - STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS produces large quantities of the enzyme lactase, making it effective in the digestion of dairy products especially for most Asians who are lactose intolerance and improves diarrhoea condition. It also offers protection against carcinogen. As it resides temporarily in the tract, there is a need to be constantly replenished. 

Common use of BIFIDOBACTERIA are Bifodbacterium bifidum, Bifodbacterium lactis, Bifodbacterium longum, Bifodbacterium breve, Bifodbacterium infantis, Bifodbacterium thermophilum and Bifodbacterium pseudolongum.

Bifidobacterium Bifidum reside in the small intestine and are able to provide a conducive environment for the production of vitamins K and Bs. Others are mostly found in the lower digestive tract which appear within days of birth, more especially in breastfed infants. There are approximately 30 such species making up approximately 90% of the healthy bacteria in the colon. Being the last section of the digestive tract, it carries and treats undigested food before eventually pass out through the anus. Comprising mostly fiber, the residing friendly bacteria can extract residual nutrients and vitamins such as short chain fatty acids, lactic acid, digestive enzymes, vitamin B and K.

Why need to replenish?


Scientists found that 80% of our intestinal bacteria is passed out with the feces and thus an adult requires at least 15-20 billion of friendly bacteria daily for replenishment. This number is further reduced as we age and adopt unhealthy eating habits with detrimental effect on the ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract. People who need more tend to:

 

+ Indulge in spicy food, excessive refined sugar and meat;

+ Consume food contaminated with pesticides;

+ Love drinking too much chlorinated or carbonated beverages;

+ Stress easily (reflex between the brain and gastrointestinal becomes abnormal);

+ Over-dependent on antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain killers and steroids

A less conducive environment induces some friendly bacteria to join the colony of unfriendly bacteria. Even with replenishment of the friendly bacteria diligently, not all get to the colon successfully as they have to withstand the onslaught of acidity in the stomach.


Should children take?


+  Recent study done showed babies given antibiotics before the age of 6 months could cause obesity. What happens is that microbes in our intestines may play critical roles in how calories and nutrients are absorbed, and exposure to antibiotics prematurely may kill the healthy bacteria.


+  Probiotics may be effective in preventing diarrhea in children after a bout of antibiotics, the same way as they are effective in adults. Antibiotics reduce good bacteria and increase the chances of diarrhea whereas probiotics help to restore the balance of good bacteria, which ultimately prevents antibiotic induced diarrhea. Many infants and children may be lacking beneficial bacteria, and supplements could potentially help them get fewer infections.


+   Preliminary studies show that probiotics are most effective in children with moderately severe eczema, as opposed to children with mild eczema. Avoiding known allergens, but supplemented with probiotics may help to keep your child’s eczema under control.

Common symptoms


Allergies, colds, flu and thrush are all signs that the good and bad bacteria are out of balance. Other symptoms include:

+ Digestive problems eg stomach discomfort,flatulence, diarrhea, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome

+ Malnutrition (either underweight or overweight)

+ Skin problems eg eczema, herpes and yeast infections


+  Abnormal cell growth eg tumor, cancer

+ Autoimmune disorder eg rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis

Benefits

As the bad bacteria are capable of producing harmful disease-causing toxins, the good bacteria have some anti-inflammatory factors to check on them and even combat induced infections in the intestines and urinary tract (UTI). A typical occurrence is candidiasis where there is an overproduction of yeast in the digestive system and genitals leading to an infection of the skin and mucous membranes (eg, mouth). Probiotics produce acidic waste that creates an inhospitable environment for candida organisms which thrive in low pH. Remedy may take 1-4 weeks - depending on the number and type of probiotics used, and severity of the condition. 


Having sufficient good bacteria has other benefits like:

+ Strengthens the immune system by boosting the strength of the natural killer cells and improves endocrine function to reduce the incidence of infection, food poisoning, food allergy and skin problems (eg. eczema).

A clinical study was conducted on 20% of colicky babies suffering the inconsolable bouts of crying, probably due to allergies derived from hormones in milk, stress whilst in the womb or gut inflammation. After being fed one of the beneficial bacteria, crying was reduced. Same study found that kids aged 3-5 years who were prone to influenza had fewer episode of fever, cough and runny nose after being supplemented daily for 6 consecutive months.

+ Enhances calcium bioavailability and utilisation to prevent osteoporosis

+ Assists in weight management as metabolism improves

+ Aids in maintaining normal cholesterol and triglyceride levels

+ Relieves those suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)


Food sources

+ Probiotics are available in the form of dietary supplements or foods. Yogurt, kimchi, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, soy beverages and some juices are examples of foods that contain probiotics. The number of live organisms can vary greatly in food products due to processing methods (avoid those pasteurised to destroy bacteria). Also avoid yogurt drinks loaded with sugar, artificial coloring and flavoring.

+ Prebiotics are a type of carbohydrate called oligosacchardies of which the most common ones are Fructo-Oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin. They are non-digestible fibers (eg. onions, garlic, banana, whole grains) that stimulate the growth and activity of bacterial species in the colon.

When probiotics and prebiotics are mixed together, they form a symbiotic and shown to improve the ecosystem of the intestinal tract significantly by increasing the probiotic population and digestive enzyme activities.

Food sources or supplements can both be effective. Food is advantageous in that you also get nutritional benefits from it, but supplements can be more convenient for some people. As dietary supplements, probiotics are not as regulated as conventional drugs, and so active doses can vary widely between products. It is best to do some research into the probiotic you wish to take to find out how much of the active ingredient is contained.

Caution:


Probiotics should be recommended after taking a course of antibiotics as mentioned above. Likewise, garlic is effective against viruses, yeast, protozoa and other micro-organisms but is capable of wiping off both the good and bad bacteria, and thus repopulation of the good ones is necessary too.


Conclusion

In general, researchers found that probiotic doses of more than 5 billion colony-forming units per day for children (is safe) and more than 10 billion colony-forming units per day for adults were associated with the best outcomes. Taking on an empty stomach for best effect.

Remember we are part BACTERIA too. So we are better off supporting, rather than destroying the life-supporting bacteria in us.

Hence it is better be pro-life, not anti-life !


VIVA corner


According to recommendation:

• An adult should have around 15-20 billion of bacterial cells per day
• An infant up to 12 months of age can have 1-2 billion of bacterial cells per day
• A toddler 1 to 2 years of age can have 2-4 billion of bacterial cells per day
• A child 2 to 4 years of age can handle 4-8 billion of bacterial cells per day
• A child 4 to 11 years of age can have 8-12 billion of bacterial cells per day
• A child 12 to 16 years of age can have 12-15 billion of bacterial cells per day

To make up the daily requirement, introduce a scoop of VIVA Floraguard enhanced formula containing 10 billion CFU (equal to 10 bottles of those single strain bacteria drinks which are usually loaded with high sugar and calorie content). In fact, is rare to find a product that contains few strains in one. It also contains  PREBIOTICS, such as inulin, brewers' yeast and B complex to provide adequate 'food' for optimal probiotics development and to ensure live activities of PROBIOTICS from being neutralised before reaching the intestines.  Kids below 6 can go for 1/4 to 1/3 of adult serving each time.

It consists of 5 strains of potent, friendly sugar-free bacteria or probiotics namely:


    1.  Lactobacillus acidophilus
    2. Lactobacterium bulgaricus
    3. Bifidobacterium bifidum
    4. Bifidobacterium longum
    5. Streptococcus thermophiles  

Credentials

* Silver Award of 2005 Taiwan National Biotechnology & Medical Care Quality Award and 2005 Symbol of National Quality

* The efficacy has been proven and published at the World Journal of Gastroenterology 2005, 11 (47)

How food is digested

Do your stomach a favor by chewing food thoroughly before you push it down your throat. Our mouth is a food processor that chops and grinds food intake into small particles aided by digestives enzymes before sending down to the esophagus and entering the stomach.


Digestive process:

(1)  Carbohydrates


The term "sugar" is commonly associated with sweet treats or a white crystalline powder added to foods like bread, pastries and beverages. As a classification of carbohydrates, it takes on varying chemical structure form - in single units called monosaccharides (eg fresh fruits, milk), double units or disaccharides (eg table sugar, germinating grains and dairy), and multiple units known as oligosaccharides or polysaccharides (eg wheat bread, oatmeal). In any case, the body digests all sugars in a one step process.

-  Sugar: an enzyme in the mouth - amylase dissolves the simple sugar immediately. It travels down the esophagus to the stomach where digestive juices dilute it quickly and passes on to the small intestine. Other forms of sugar are broken down into the smallest possible sugar molecule with the help of digestive enzymes (carbohydrage) found in the stomach and the lining of the small intestine. Once sugar returns to single molecule form, or a monosaccharide, it is readily absorbed through the small intestine into the bloodstream as glucose.


-  Complex carbohydrates -  contain a high amount of indigestible fiber and thus prolong the digestion process and aid in stabilizing the sugar level.


Carbohydrate metabolism is the biochemical process that allows your body to form, breakdown and convert glucose. Three main hormones are involved in controlling the blood sugar concentrations namely glucagon, insulin and epinephrine (adrenaline).


-  When the concentration of glucose in your blood is too high, your pancreas secretes insulin to effect transfer of glucose into the cells to use as energy or store temporarily in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).


-  The process of glycogenesis or anabolism involves changing the glucose in your liver and muscles to store as glycogen. When your blood glucose levels are low, glucagon hormones are secreted to stimulate the conversion of glycogen into glucose as a source of energy through a process called glycogenolysis or catabolism.


-  In a state of emergency, released adrenaline causes the liver and muscles to break down glycogen into glucose in greater intensity for immediate use.


(2)  Protein

Since proteins are used by the body for creating hormones, enzymes and neurotransmitters, repairing and building cells (including DNA and RNA), understanding how protein digestion and absorption work is essential.

A protein molecule comprises a string of linked amino acids, folded into a complex globular shape. Digesting the protein in the foods you eat involves unfolding the protein chain and then unlinking the amino acids it contains (catabolic). Upon absorption, they become incorporated into new proteins that the body synthesizes for growth and maintenance needs (anabolic). Complete protein contains the full range of essential amino acids (eg. tofu, soymilk) whilst the incomplete protein has some amino acids not present (eg. vegetables, grains, legumes).

The process begins with protein food being chewed and swallowed. Once it reaches the stomach, the hydrochloric acid in it unfolds the protein to access the bonds holding the individual amino acids together. A specific protein-degrading enzyme called pepsin cleaves the large, bulky, unfolded protein molecule into smaller pieces of protein known as peptides. The high acidity environment leaves little chance for microorganisms inadvertently consumed with your food to perish in the digestive process.


The pancreas secretes a bicarbonate-containing buffer called protease that serves to neutralize the gastric contents as they move out of your stomach. By now, the broken down amino acids are of very small dimensions and thus able to penetrate the intestinal lining. From here, they enter tiny bloodstream called capillaries and transport by liquid blood plasma and red blood cells to various tissues, depending on where cell structures need to be created or repaired. Excessive intake is stored in liver (fatty liver) and adipose (fat) cells lying around. On the contrary, any sharp deficit is to be recalled from the muscle. 


(3)  Fats (lipids)

Most lipids that you consume in your diet are fats which we digest and metabolize in the form of triglycerides. A small portion of digestion occurs in the mouth and the stomach, with most takes place in the small intestine. Bile is produced by the liver, stored and released in the gall bladder to emulsify fat globules into smaller droplets. Pancreatic lipase, an enzyme secreted by the pancreas, then splits triglycerides apart into smaller parts called diglycerides, monoglycerides and free fatty acids. About 20% of these smaller fatty acids go straight to the portal vein where they bind to the protein albumin and travel to the liver to be used for energy or turned into longer chains as and when required.

Larger fatty acids are reformed into triglycerides, then are packaged into lipoproteins called chylomicrons and released into the bloodstream for short term energy and some stored in adipose tissue throughout the body for long-term energy needs. All of your cells can use fatty acids for energy, except for those in your brain, red blood cells and eyes.
By now....  
 
Food particles with fat and protein contents would have stayed in the stomach for about 3 hours and hydrochloric acid is produced to break it down further into a soft liquid known as chime to enable easy absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.  


(4)  Vitamins


Vitamins which are passing through the small intestine are grouped based on how the body absorbed them. Water-soluble B-complex and C vitamins dissolve in water prior to absorption. As they are not easily stored, surplus amounts are excreted in your urine. The fat-soluble A, D, E and K require bile acids to dissolve in fat to be absorbed and stored in the liver for later use. Incidentally, this organ acts as a detoxifier and storage centre for essential components required for daily body functioning like blood, vitamins, glycogen, sugars, enzymes and to metabolise fats and proteins.


Moving on....

The journey down is a whopping 66 feet of intestines taking approximately 12-14 hours. The small intestine sees 95% of food processing completed, working in concerted effort with the other digestive organs like the liver, pancreas and gallbladder where enzymes and bile are secreted to dissolve the food particle as well. The remaining indigestible food passes into the first part of the large intestine where the food remnant remains 12-14 hours. Its main function is to hold water to be made available when the body is dehydrated. When water level runs low, food passes through tend to be hard and can cause damage to the inner lining of the intestines, leading to diverticulitis, hemorrhoids or cancer.

Upon exiting the rectum, it can tear and veins collapsed to form painful hemorrhoids. Food overstaying results in fermenting and rotting eventually. Danger of toxins being leaked and re-circulated from here into the bloodstream, thereby poisoning the cells is high for constipated individuals. Remember 80% of diseases arise from an unhealthy colon.


During the entire digestive process, enzymes play an important role in the proper absorption of nutrients, failing which disorders and symptoms occur. Some common ones are gastritis, bloating, gas, irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn and indigestion, liver disease and gall bladder. Broadly speaking, they keep us well alive.

******************************************************************************

Having understood the entire digestive process, does this statement makes sense: "The more you eat, the sooner you die. The lesser you eat, the longer you live?"

To see how eating habits affect lifespan, a professor from the Universtiy of Texas did an experiment on 100 mice....

+ For the first group, there is no food restriction;
+ The second group was fed only 60% full;
+ The third group enjoyed no food restriction but with protein servings halved.

After 2.5 years, guess how many mice were still alive out of 100?

* First group - only 13 mice survived;
* Second group - only 3 mice died.
* Third group - half still alive.

These are the interesting findings -

+ Eating too full is doing a big disfavour to your body.
+ Eat 60% full is the way to live longer and healthier.
+ Overloading of protein is harmful to your body.

Analogy

Given a small family car to be used for short travel between home and office, you use it for long distance travel between different cities daily. Instead of using it for an hour a day, you stretch it for 10 hours a day. Instead of driving at 70 km/h, you always speed up to 170 km/h, hitting engine's red line to get to the faraway spot as soon as possible.

You should be able to guess your car's life span and expect having various mechanical problems after a short time right?

On the same basis of comparison, eating too much is like driving your car at high speed for a long time. Your body is forced to work harder and harder at its red line.

Digestive process

Eating too full zaps up much of your body energy for digestion which otherwise may be used for other purposes such as enhancing your immunity. That is why you become very tired easily after a big meal as your body is working hard to digest all the food you take in.

For instance, when you eat an extra bowl of noodle, your pancreas has to produce extra insulin hormone to process the extra carbohydrates intake. Your liver, stomach and intestine also have to produce extra enzymes to digest and process specific nutrients from that bowl of noodle.

Again draw the analogy from your car.  Its engine burns fuel and produces exhaust smoke which is toxic. There is outlet fitted to disperse the smoke from your vehicle.

Our body cells burn nutrients from food like fats and carbohydrates for energy to survive. In the process, free radicals are being generated. Being harmful to the body, they have to be neutralized and expelled. In minute quantity, this process is carried out without our knowledge. However, the more you eat, the more free radicals your body produces. Without adequate control, these free radicals can easily attack your body cells and eventually cause all sort of chronic diseases eg. heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

How to avoid eating too much?

1. Always eat until 70% full only. This is when you feel slightly full.

2. Avoid having buffet style meal which makes it harder to control the food intake. Instead, finish the food you prepare in a plate and do not add anymore.

3. Leaving the dining table earlier may prevent you from picking some extra food to eat.

4. It is always a good idea to prepare lesser food in the first place. Do not be afraid of having not enough food to serve. In fact, lesser food is beneficial for everyone's health.

In an eating outlet, order in small amount first. You can always add in some extra order if necessary. We tend to overeat if there are much food on the table.

5. Avoid stuffing your fridge with sinful foods such as ice cream, chocolate or other dessert.

6. Do not feel obligated to finish food that is too big for your stomach. You can just put aside some food to another empty plate first. Someone can take up this share portion later.

7. When you get too hungry before your meal time, just take some fruits instead of heavy meal.

Our comments

Do we eat to survive or survive to eat? Think is time to go back to the basics and eat to survive if we want to survive well. Modern people are overeating the rich foods leading to various diseases, some unheard of in the past. Look at the monks around do they look strong and energetic?  Mind you they take only two simple meals a day.

Is sinful to eat excessive on most meals. Why not balance up with fasting on vegetable/fruit juices on some days to let the body rests and do a good detox. If your car needs maintenance after travelling certain mileage, your body should also need constant maintenance before servicing is required or worst overhauling a major system.


VIVA corner


+ VIVA Fibercleanse provides psyllium husk to help in promoting a healthy digestive system and bowel regularity.

+ VIVA Floraguard provides adequate amount of the friendly bacteria for improving the peristalsis movement and reducing the production of gas.

+ VIVA Nutrazyme provides the additional enzymes you need to help break down food into nutrients effectively for use.

  

Some common digestive problems

 

From a nutritional point of view, the gastrointestinal tract is considered one of the most important organs in the body. Maintaining a healthy digestive tract is paramount in achieving optimal health, as poor digestion can cause a multitude of seemingly unrelated problems. Nutritional health and gastrointestinal health are therefore closely correlated.


Some common digestive problems are as follows:


Heartburn or GERD (Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease)

Heartburn is a burning sensation and pain in the stomach and/or chest behind the breastbone. It may be accompanied by bloating, gas, nausea, shortness of breath, and/or an acidic or sour taste in the throat. This occurs when hydrochloric acid, which is used by the stomach to digest food, backs up into the esophagus causing sensitive tissues to become irritated. Normally the sphincter muscle pinches itself shut and prevents stomach acid from surging upward. However, if the sphincter is not functioning properly the acid can slip past it and enter the esophagus causing damage to the lining which can induce cancer if not treated. Another route is to the lungs to cause asthma-like symptoms.


Causes


-  Excessive consumption of spicy foods, fatty or fried/smoked foods, alcohol, coffee, citrus fruits, chocolate or tomato-based foods can trigger GERD. In fact, in nearly 80% of acid reflux cases, low stomach acid is the culprit. As such, food that has been sitting in the stomach without enough stomach acid ferments and creates gas. By taking antacids the stomach acid is being reduced further which is the opposite of what is required.


-  Ulcers, gallbladder problems, stress, allergies and enzyme deficiencies can also contribute to its occurrence.


-  People with certain illnesses, like cancer, often have excessive amounts of acid in their systems. For some who develop an esophageal cell lining that is more acid-resistant, it can be pre-malignant and transform into cancerous cells.  Such chest discomfort can be mistaken for a heart attack at times.

What to do?

+ At the first sign of heartburn, drink a large glass of water or swallow saliva.

+ Vegetable juices are known to contain large amount of enzymes. Juices from raw potato, fresh cabbage and celery can be taken daily. Raw vegetables can be eaten in smaller, more frequent meals. However, most vegetables contain high amounts of fiber which may irritate your gastritis when get gassy. Preferred are orange vegetables like butternut squash, winter squash, summer squash, carrots, yellow peppers, yellow tomatoes, sweet potatoes and sweet corn which contain beta-carotene, capable of protecting the mucus lining of your esophagus and stomach from erosive gastritis.

+ Avoid citrus fruits and acidic foods like carbonated beverages, fats, fried foods, processed foods, tobacco, caffeinated products and sugar especially on an empty stomach. Fresh papaya and pineapple are good choices which can aid digestion.


+ Food should be well chewed to put less burden on the stomach to breakdown further. More frequent meals are recommended.

+ A local study found that curry can worsen the pain in people with upper abdominal symptoms. The more curry a person consumes in a single sitting, the more intense the pain that can last for about 3 hours. The suspected culprit is chili that triggers the pain.

+ Do not eat for 3 hours before bedtime.

+ Stop smoking as it reduces the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter.

+ Maintain an exercise program that includes walking, biking or low-impact aerobics. Avoid running and weight-training as these activities put pressure on the stomach. Reduce the stress level if possible.

Other possible help –

+ Elevate the head of the bed when lying so that less stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus.

+ Obese people should lose weight as excessive fats exert pressure on the abdomen and stomach, thus inducing stomach acid to backflow into the esophagus.

+ Wearing loose-fitting clothes can help to reduce abdominal pressure as well.

Critical conditions -

Mild occasional heartburn is easily self-manageable, but experiencing persistent heartburn or alarming symptoms like vomiting blood, dizziness, difficulty in swallowing, chest pain in the night, black stools or unintended weight loss should warrant medical help. Surgery may be required as a last resort to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter so that acid reflux is likely to happen.

PEPTIC ULCERS DISEASE (PUD)


Peptic ulcer disease including both gastric and duodenal ulcer form a substantial part of patients seeking medical opinion world-wide.

A peptic ulcer is a spot where the lining of the stomach or small intestine and the tissues beneath has been eroded, leaving an internal open wound. The surrounding tissue is usually swollen and irritated. Failing to protect against the effect of digestive acids and enzymes, the stomach can be digested itself. The symptoms of a peptic ulcer include the chronic burning or gnawing stomach pain that usually begins 45 to 60 min after eating or awakening at night. Pain can be mild or severe. Other possible symptoms include unintended weight loss, lower back pain, headaches, a choking sensation, black stools, itching, nauseating and vomiting.


Causes
 

+  Stress is usually considered a risk factor as it increases the production of stomach acid.


+  Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and low-dose aspirin can be responsible for increase of stomach acidity over prolonged period of usage.


+ However, recent study showed that about 80% of cases are due to ulcers infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria combined with the presence of stomach acid. This transmittable infectious bacteria, hard to rid, burrows into the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine causing damage to the mucous layer that protects the lining from digestive acids.

+  Foods and other substances that are acidic and anti-inflammatory should be avoided to reduce or prevent symptoms include:

• Alcohol and smoking
• Spicy foods eg. chilli, peppers
• Fatty foods
• Fried and barbecued foods
• Acidic foods eg. meat, coffee, processed foods

Also note following foods that are detrimental:

• Toxic eg. cigarette smoking
• Burning effect or irritate eg. garlic, tomato, drugs

Remedies

Most sufferers have few or short-term symptoms and recover completely. Even those with underlying causes that are appropriately treated can recover fully too.
A classic example of clinical study done is Vitamin U, administered as raw cabbage juice to 100 patients with peptic ulcer, was apparently effective in promoting the rapid healing of uncomplicated peptic ulcers. The evidence of therapeutic benefit was -

1. the rapid relief of the symptom, pain, without the use of any set plan of symptomatic treatment, and;
2. the average crater healing time for seven of these patients who had duodenal ulcer was only 10.4 days, while the average time in 62 patients treated by standard therapy of diet and drug therapy was 37 days. Also, the average healing time for six patients with gastric ulcer treated with cabbage juice was only 7.3 days, compared with 42 days for similar number treated by standard therapy.

However, if left unattended after prolonged period, inflammation and anemia can develop, with growths appearing as polyps and cancer if left unattended. Watch for any signs like indigestion, bloating, heartburn, nausea and loss of appetite.


For stomach cancer - see link: http://vivajoyhealth.blogspot.sg/2014/02/gastric-cancer.html


LACTOSE INTOLERANCE

 

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose (milk sugar). It is caused by a lack or deficiency of lactase, an enzyme manufactured in the small intestine that splits lactose into glucose and galactose. Hence, when a person with lactose intolerance consumes milk or other dairy products, some or all of the lactose they contain remains undigested, retains fluid and ferments in the colon, resulting in abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea and gas. Most Asians are lactose intolerant but it is not a serious threat to health and can be easily managed through dietary modification.

BULIMIA NERVOSE / ANAREXIA

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterised by episodes of uncontrolled binge eating, often involving extremely large amounts of high-calorie foods, followed by one or more of the following: induced vomiting or the use of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas and/or obsessive exercising to purge the body of the food eaten during the binge. The binge/purge episodes vary in frequency, from a few times a week to several times daily.
 

Some of the many serious problems Bulimia can lead to include anemia, depletion of fluid balance, electrolyte imbalances, erratic heartbeat, hypoglycemia, infertility, internal bleeding, kidney or liver damage, malnutrition, cessation of menstrual cycles, mental fuzziness, loss of muscle and bone mass, a low pulse rate and blood pressure, a ruptured stomach or esophagus, stones in the salivary glands, tooth and/or gum erosion, ulcers, and a weakened immune system. Not only is the body turns topsy-turvy, life-threatening problems can result, including cancers of the organs and cardiac arrest.

Just the reverse is an Anorexia patient who tends to think she is fat though underweight. Such person starves herself, vomit deliberately and/or takes huge doses of laxatives resulting in depletion of minerals like potassium and zinc. Zinc deficiency can lead to heart failure, menstruation irregularity, dry skin, brittleness of hair and nails, premature death. Many anorexia patients require hospitalisation to feed potassium and multivitamins through intravenous tube.

CONSTIPATION

Constipation is difficulty in passing stools or the infrequent passage of hard, dry stools as a result of food moving slowly through the large intestine. Most people experience constipation at one point of their life but usually improved lifestyle and better eating habits help to relieve the symptoms and prevent recurrences.


Causes

In most instances, inadequate intake of fibre and fluids in the diet causes constipation. As we know fibre is found in plant foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Fibre that is soluble in water takes on a softer texture and helps soften the stools. Insoluble fibre passes through the intestine largely unchanged and adds bulk to stools, which helps in peristalsis movement.

Other contributory factors are: lack of exercise, advanced age, muscle disorders, structural abnormalities, bowel diseases and a poor diet, especially heavy consumption of junk food. Iron supplements, painkillers and antidepressants can cause constipation too. Also a common problem for pregnant women.

Constipation can give rise to many different ailments, including appendicitis, bad breath, body odor, coated tongue, depression, fatigue, gas, headaches, hemorrhoids, hernia, indigestion, insomnia obesity and varicose veins. The worst to happen is colon cancer.

Regulating bowel movements are an important mechanism for removing toxins from the body. The colon serves as a holding tank for waste matter. If toxins are not discharged timely, they can be re-circulated into the bloodstream and poison the other organs. As a result 80% of diseases originate from the colon.

Hard to swallow? Do not worry…

Having examined the eating disorders mentioned above, good nutrition is urgently needed to put ‘house in order’. Patients may display a variety of medical and psychological complications but reversible results appear through re-balancing of lifestyle.

 

(1) Multivitamins, protein and mineral supplement are three essential components to replenish in such extreme dire condition.

 

(2) Our gut consists of a maze of both friendly and bad bacteria totally about 100 trillion. The friendly bacteria protect against harmful pathogens by guarding our intestine. To ensure a stronger defend, is advisable to introduce probiotics and prebiotics at a frequent interval. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria whereas prebiotics are non-digestible foods that stimulate the growth of friendly bacteria

(3) As we age, digestive enzymes are depleting from our liver. The main enzymes, namely amylase (carbohydrates), protease (protein) and lipase (milk sugar) help to break down food into smaller molecules of nutrients which our body can assimilate.

(4) Last but not the least, fibre in the form of soluble and insoluble fiber is indispensable to our gastrointestinal health. Soluble fiber from fruits and vegetables help to promote movement of waste material while insoluble fiber from oats, brown rice and green barley are crucial in adding bulk to the waste material.

Source: Prescription to Natural Healing, Ezyhealth and Beauty,www.hpb.gov.sg

VIVA corner:

+ VIVA Dailyguard provides full range of vitamins and minerals to replenish nutrient loss;

+ VIVA Floraguard stabilises intestinal floras providing both prebiotics and probiotics;

+ VIVA Calmag & D Plus aids in development and maintenance of bone health and calming effect;
+ VIVA Cleanse Tea, a synergistic blend of herbs that support gentle cleansing of digestive tract. Its main ingredient, buckthorn is an effective stool softener yet milder than other purgative herbs. It helps to increase the colon's ability to contract spontaneously and avail more fluids in the colon by conserving water absorption in the intestines. For those who are seriously constipated, this is a wonderful relief.

+ VIVA B-easy - with its full range of Vitamin B is effective for cellular function, aids in food digestion and assimilation of all nutrients including iron;

+ VIVA Nutrazyme supports the digestives system with 3 main enzymes (protease, amylase and lipase) and bromelain (pineapple enzyme) to aid in breaking down food and for anti-inflammatory purpose;

+ VIVA Fibercleanse, a blend of soluble and insoluble dietary fibers that promote regularity of bowel movement;

ENZYMES – your LIFETIME companion

 

In our body numerous biological reactions take place at the cellular level to maintain balance. Some reactions are performed with the help of certain substances like enzymes. Hence, life cannot exist without enzymes. Take a good look at this illustration on how food ingested is being broken down.

What are enzymes?

Enzymes are energized protein molecules produced in minute quantities by the cells to stimulate a vital reaction in our body. Metabolic enzymes play a crucial role in reactions that provide energy for cells. In fact, vitamins, minerals and hormones must have enzymes to work properly. How?

For individuals who are enzyme deficient, the nutrient rich food are wasted because they cannot be properly broken down. Hence, enzymes are the facilitating agent to deliver nutrients to the cells. Simply put, digestive enzymes break down the food we eat, release nutrients for energy production and promote cell growth.

Why do I need digestive enzyme supplements?

Raw food contains digestive enzymes which promotes digestive health but most of us do not live on a raw food diet. If you eat foods cooked at temperatures higher than 104 F (40 deg ƒ), or consume processed, prepackaged meals, the accompanying enzymes are destroyed and our body has to produce its own to digest the food. This puts stress on our digestive system especially for those who like to eat processed foods and meals higher in calories and fat. In the long run, you are not getting an adequate supply of the enzymes that are critical for the break down of proteins, carbohydrates and fats into the molecules of nutrients your body can assimilate. This can result in bloating, gas, occasional heartburn and acid reflux. More critical condition gives rise to disease and degeneration including arthritis, diabetes, allergies, skin diseases and cancer.


Putting back digestive enzymes can help to digest your food more efficiently and increase the nutrient uptake. This can reverse the trend with removal of free radicals and toxins, and thus strengthen the immune system.


What’s happen to our enzymes store?

The main reason we are running out of enzymes store in the body is the change in our lifestyle.

- Research has shown that older people and patients with chronic disease have fewer enzymes in their saliva, urine and tissues.
- Our poor dietary habits require excessive amounts of enzymes to digest our foods.
- Stress kills and damages cells, resulting in our enzyme-making machinery having to work overtime to help rebuild and replace them.
- Environmental pollution causes cellular damage and requiring ongoing assistance from enzymes just to maintain a healthy immune system.

Hence, for most people there is a need to replenish enzymes from the external source through diet or health supplements.

What is a good enzyme formulation and why?

Enzyme therapy is the use of enzymes to stimulate chemical reactions in the body, designed to improve digestion of foods (raw or cooked) and to cleanse, feed and nurture the trillion of cells for optimal balance.

Cleansing involves removing the causative agents such as allergens, environmental and digestive toxins, bacteria, parasites or viruses. Once the elimination process is done up, digestive enzymes can be introduced. This can then be followed up with providing nutrients to heal the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and nourish cell membranes. (or repair inflamed tissues)

Back to what we eat. About 95% of the food ingested comprising protein, carbohydrates and fats. A great enzyme formulation contains substantial amounts of protease, amylase and lipase with high activity and potency. Protease digests proteins, amylase digests carbohydrates and lipase digest fats.

Why plant-derived digestive enzymes are better?

Plant enzymes (bromelain and papain) are active in a broad pH range of 2 to 12, well within the human body’s normal pH ranges. This is effective even in breaking down and reducing inflammation. A healthy digestive system promotes the growth of healthy intestinal flora.

On the other hand, animal enzymes are derived from animal stomach or intestines, and can work in the alkaline environment of the small intestines. Thus, the enzymes involved (pancreatin, pepsin and trypsin) only start working during the later stage of digestion and not very effective at aiding our body in pre-digestion or be active in the upper alkaline portion of your stomach.

How much enzymes to take?

Enzymes are energy-giving food to aid in digestion greatly. There are 2 choices: to use the energy in the enzymes to help digest your food or the energy in your body to digest the food. Using the digestive enzyme energy conserves the body’s energy and the enzyme reserves.

Does it matter if taking antacids for heartburn and indigestion at same time?

Enzymes will help heartburn and indigestion almost immediately. Antacids provide only temporary relief by neutralizing the acidity in the stomach, but will cause a much greater problem. Antacids stop the body from doing its digestive job while enzymes help the body to perform this specific task.
Also to note, in nearly 80% of acid reflux cases, low stomach acid is the culprit. As such, food that has been sitting in the stomach without enough stomach acid ferments and creates gas. By taking antacids the stomach acid is being reduced further which is the opposite of what is required.

How quick can result be realised?

Most people having acid indigestion, upset stomach, bloating or problems with digestion will usually see immediate results. People having problems with bowel movements will usually see improvement within a week or two. Many people will see increased energy within a couple of weeks to a month. The people that see the best results are the people that continue to take digestive enzymes daily.

What are some physical conditions associated with enzyme deficiencies?

Here are some conditions associated with the decreased levels of each individual enzyme:

*Protease (digests proteins): anxiety, low blood sugar, kidney problems, water retention; depressed immunity, bacterial and viral infections, cancer, appendicitis, bone problems such as osteoporosis, arthritis and bone spurs.
*Amylase (digests carbohydrates): skin problems (rashes, hives, herpes, canker sores), liver and gallbladder disease.
*Lipase (digests fats): high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, spastic colon, and dizziness.
*Cellulase (digests fiber): gas, bloating, acute food allergies, facial pain or paralysis, candidiasis (yeast infections).

Any help in improving aging skin?

- Enzymes can fight the aging process by increasing the blood supply to the skin. Better circulation helps bring nutrients to the skin and removes the waste products that can make the skin look dull and wrinkled.

- Grape seed and pine bark antioxidants* can also help make the skin softer and more supple. Beautiful skin can be realized and enzymes can definitely help.

Source: http://www.digestive-enzymes.com/enzq&a.html

VIVA corner

VIVA Nutrazyme formulated specifically from plant sources and include special enhancers to increase enzyme effectiveness to help in breaking down food into nutrients you use. It contains:
* Lactose - Helps to breakdown lactose (milk sugar). Beneficial for those lactose intolerance.
* Amylase - Enzyme to break down carbohydrate to simple sugar.
* Protease - Enzyme to break down protein to amino acids.
* Lipase - Enzyme to break down fat to fatty acids.
* Cellulase – Enzyme to break down cellulose fiber.
* Papain (Papaya enzyme) has a mild and soothing effect on the stomach and is very useful in helping to aid protein digestion.
* Bromelain - Protein-digesting enzyme shown to be helpful as a blood thinner and as an anti-inflammatory.

Direction: Take one (1) tablet 30 minutes before each meal.

Don’t EAT past 8 pm !

 

As the old saying goes: Do not eat past 8 pm or the food you eat will turn into body fat. Even if you have not had your dinner, skip it and avoid supper. If hunger pangs bit hard, snack with some healthy light refreshment to keep you resting well till the next available meal in the morning.

Researchers collected various data pointed to eating a late supper could possibly lead to weight gain. In totality, 90% of obesity is attributed to taking late dinner or supper in large portion or too rich foods. Even light foods take about 4 hours to be fully digested.

In one research, a comparison was even made on participants who took early and late supper. The late batch burned fewer calories on the late supper day than they did on the early supper day. Though the difference was merely about 50 calorie per day, this adds up to a weight gain of 5 lbs in a year’s time. Extrapolate over 10 years, one will balloon with an extra 50 lbs. The actual result can be worse because the participants reported being more hungry before and less satiated after the late supper than the earlier supper which could potentially lead to increased intake during the late meal.

As our body prepares for a good rest by unwinding with low activity level, lower metabolic rate is naturally registered. After a day of hard work, the accumulation of fatigue worsens metabolism. Hence, eating a late supper does not allow for much time to burn off the meal’s calories nor does it allow for time for the body to regulate the food that it just ingested prior to sleeping.

Health problems you may encounter on prolonged supper habit -

Diabetes

After a meal, our blood sugar rises. The pancreas has to release insulin to uptake the glucose from our blood and bring into the cells. An excessive rise in both glucose and insulin put pressure on the body to work harder. Together with more free fatty acids (fats in the blood) on frequent indulgence may lead to insulin resistance and diabetes.

High blood pressure/cholesterol

Slower blood circulation causes more arterial deposits. This causes the heart to pump harder to penetrate the blocked vessel which may reduce its elasticity or rupture the inner lining. Too much deposits can lead to plaque formation, or hardening of the arteries. When the coronary arteries that carry oxygen and nutrients to heart muscle become obstructed, the flow of blood is cut off completely, giving rise to a heart attack.

Fatty Liver

A build-up of cholesterol as lipids and proteins cannot be properly broken down. This is further compounded with liquor drinking.  Do your body a favor by freeing up your liver to perform its daily detox duties (especially around 11 pm to 1 am) whilst you are getting a good night’s rest.

Colon cancer

A diet high in saturated animal fat and low in fiber can cause sluggish colon movement and traps unbroken proteins facilitating thriving bacteria to produce toxins. A small growth on the bowel wall known as a colorectal polyp marks the beginning. If left unattended, it can grow into the muscle layers underneath, and then through the bowel wall, giving rise to colorectal cancer.

Insomnia/Neurotic disorders

As the other digestive organs are still busy working, the brain is unable to rest. The brain cells can be deprived of oxygen as it is directed elsewhere, leading to premature deaths and thus accelerated aging. A disturbed mind promotes bad dreams and insomnia as well. To keep energy levels steady throughout the day can be a real problem then.

Other comments

Eat lesser if you are famished in the midst of the night and the hunger pang bites so hard that sleeping is impossible. Opt for healthy snacks like skim milk, nuts, lean proteins, good fats and lots of vegetables (fiber to feel full). This is especially helpful for those who do late workouts and need to rebuild their muscles with good proteins.

To stay fit and healthy, no more unhealthy foods after 8 pm. It is wiser to eat breakfast like a king and dinner like a pauper. Supper should be totally out!

Kidney STONES and Kidney FAILURE

Our two kidneys varying from 3 to 7 inches in length and weighing some 154g each are located near the spine midway down the back. Each kidney filters about 189 litres of blood, concentrated fluid and waste products into about 1 litre of urine per day.

Our body is capable of surviving on one kidney. Hence, having ONE kidney is sufficient for this primary task to be performed.

Vital functions

The kidneys perform important functions like:

-  Eliminate toxins, extra minerals and extra body fluid
-  Regulate salt (potassium and sodium), water and acid balance in the body
-  Produce hormones and vitamin D to regulate blood pressure
-  Ensure healthy bone respectively and
-  Produce red blood cells to enable circulation of oxygen throughout the body.


KIDNEY FAILURE

Causes

Kidney failure is a severe condition whereby a kidney is rendered totally damaged and another functions below 30% its normal capacity.

Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of kidney failure. In Singapore the statistics showed 500 new cases are diagnosed yearly, out of which half is caused by diabetes and 9% by hypertension. 20-30% of the diabetic patients develop kidney disease over a mean duration of 15 years.

Other possibilities include: damage by exposure to certain drugs or toxins, including heavy metals, solvents, chemotherapy agents, snake or insect venom, poisonous mushrooms and pesticides.

Renal failures can also accompany or result from many other disorders, such as congestive heart failure, liver disease, lupus and sickle-cell anemia.

Hypertension can cause kidney disorders and vice versa. 

-  High pressure in the blood vessels of the kidneys cause them to become thickened and rigid.  As blood supply is reduced, this organ is unable to function properly.  Salt is retained,, which causes the body to hold fluid, putting a burden on the heart.
-  The decrease in blood supply also results in dysfunction of kidney tissue, which leads to further decline of kidney function. It may occur with total kidney failure when blood pressure is no longer controllable.

Symptoms

There may be no symptom or few presenting at the same time. Possible ones include:

• a reduced amount of urine
• swelling of your legs, ankles and feet from retention of fluids caused by the failure of your kidneys to eliminate water waste
• unexplained shortness of breath
• excessive drowsiness or chronic fatigue
• persistent nausea
• confusion
• pain or pressure in your chest
• seizures
• coma

Diagnostic tests

Kidney failure can be diagnosed by conducting blood and urine test.

- For blood test, kidney failure can be reflected by the level of waste products, both Creatinine (over 0.6-1.2 mg/dl) and blood urea nitrogen, BUN (over 7-20 mg/d).

- Urine test measures the leakage of protein from the kidney to the urine.

++  BUN is a waste product derived from protein breakdown in the liver. A rise in BUN level can be caused by gout, excessive protein intake, kidney damage, drug diuretics, low fluid intake, intestinal bleeding, exercise, heart failure or decreased digestive enzyme production by the pancreas. Conversely, a decrease is due to inadequate protein intake, malabsorption or liver damage.

++  Creatinine is also a protein breakdown product. Though its level tends to be higher for those with more muscle mass, it can also indicate kidney damage for those not involved in sporting activities. Low levels can be seen in those with inadequate protein intake, liver disease, kidney damage or pregnancy.

A high BUN/creatinine ratio may indicate dehydration, poor blood circulation in the kidneys, urinary tract obstruction, prostatic enlargement, high protein diet.

++  Albumin is a protein produced in the liver and appears abundantly in the blood to protect tissues from free radicals. It binds waste products, toxins and dangerous drugs that might damage the body and transports vitamins, minerals and hormones.

The first sign of diabetic kidney disease is the appearance of abnormal amount of albumin in the urine known as microalbuminuria (normal less than 30mg). Need to take the albumin/creatinine ratio to detect any abnormality.

One important symptoms of kidney problem is edema. Edema results when the kidney produces less urine because they are unable to properly excrete salt and other wastes, and fluids build up in the body. Ankles and hands may swell, and the person is short of breath. Other symptoms are like abdominal pain, appetite loss, back pain, chills, fever, bloating, nausea, urinary urgency and vomiting. The urine may be cloudy or bloody. Back pain may be sudden and intense, occurring just above the waist and running down the groin.

If the early diabetic disease remains untreated, it can progress and develop into macro-albumininuria (less than 300 mg) or proteinuria. At this stage, the patient starts to develop high blood pressure and the kidneys begin to fail. Do not wait till the day dialysis treatment is required.


Treatment

 At an advanced stage, symptoms are headache, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, convulsions, coma and death. Without treatment, failure of both kidneys can be fatal in merely 2-3 weeks.
 
1.  A dialysis machine takes over the role of filtering and purifying the blood of accumulated waste products. Treatment is carried on 2-3 times weekly with each session lasting up to 10 hours. Meanwhile, a low potassium, low salt diet has to be strictly adhered to. Most patients are able to lead productive lives.

2.  Kidney transplant may be better for patients with chronic kidney disease so that dialysis is no longer required. A compatible donor with two healthy kidneys is required. However the surgery may not be successful at times. Immunosuppressive drugs have to be taken after the surgery which have their own side effects.


KIDNEY STONES


Kidney stones are made of salts and minerals in the urine that stick together to form hard, crystalline mineral material within the kidney or urinary tract. They can be as small as grains of sand or as large as golf balls. They are a common cause of blood in the urine and often severe pain in the abdomen, flank or groin.


Who are the sufferers?

One in every 20 people develops a kidney stone at some point in their lifetime.

Kidney stones occur more frequently in men. The prevalence of kidney stones rises dramatically as men enter their 40s, and it continues to rise into their 70s. For women, the prevalence of kidney stones peaks in their 50s. Once a person gets more than one stone, others are more likely to develop.

A small number of pregnant women (about one out of every 1,500-3,000 pregnancies) develop kidney stones, and there is some evidence that pregnancy-related changes may increase the risk of stone formation. Factors that may contribute to stone formation during pregnancy include a slowing of the passage of urine due to increased progesterone levels and diminished fluid intake due to a decreasing bladder capacity from the enlarging uterus.

Symptoms

Kidney stones often cause no pain while they are in the kidneys, but they can cause sudden, severe pain as they travel from the kidneys to the bladder. Symptoms and signs include excruciating, cramping pain in the lower back and/or side, groin or abdomen as well as blood in the urine. It may be so severe that it is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting and has been described by many as the worst pain of their lives.

If infection is present in the urinary tract along with the stones, there may be fever and chills. Sometimes, symptoms such as difficulty urinating, urinary urgency, penile pain, or testicular pain may occur due to kidney stones.

Causes

+ Kidney stones form when a change occurs in the normal balance of water (usually when there is a decrease in urine volume), salts, minerals and other substances found in urine. About 75% of kidney stones are calcium stones, as a result of calcium in combination with either oxalate or phosphate.  Foods containing high oxalic acid like Coca-Cola, tea, beer, coffee, grape juice and spinach cause calcium to leech from the bones. Sugary foods stimulate the pancreas to release insulin, which causes extra calcium to be excreted in the urine.

+ Other chemical compounds that can form stones in the urinary tract include uric acid and the amino acid cystine. Uric acid kidney stones are more common in people with chronically elevated uric acid levels in their blood. Excessive intake of animal protein has damaging effect as it causes the body to excrete calcium, phosphorus and uric acid. 

+ Dehydration through reduced fluid intake and strenuous exercise without adequate fluid replacement increase the risk of kidney stones. Climate may be a risk factor for kidney stone development, since residents of hot and dry areas are more likely to become dehydrated and susceptible to stone formation.

+ People with certain medical conditions, such as gout, and those who take certain medications eg. some diuretics, calcium-containing antacids, and the protease inhibitor indinavir (Crixivan), a drug used to treat HIV infection.

+ Kidney stones can also result from infection in the urinary tract known as infection stones. Metabolic abnormalities, including inherited disorders of metabolism, can alter the composition of the urine and increase an individual’s risk of stone formation.

 

+ Calcium supplementation from bone-meal, coral, oyster shell and dolomite are generally known as non-food source of calcium, due to their low bio-availability and poor assimilation in the body, making it hard for digestion and absorption. Prolonged usage may lead to the formation of gallstones and kidney stones. Such calcium are cheaply available but not safe as the significant amount of lead present poses a health risk.

+ Calcium stones often run in the family because the tendency to absorb too much calcium is hereditary. Those who have developed kidney stones and treated should be careful as the risk of occurrence is high.

Prevention

Rather than having to undergo treatment, it is best to avoid kidney stones in the first place when possible. Drinking more water constantly helps, since low fluid intake and dehydration are major risk factors for kidney stone formation. Also holding back urine is bad for the organ.

Depending on the cause of the kidney stones and an individual’s medical history, dietary changes or medications are sometimes recommended to decrease the likelihood of developing further kidney stones. If one has passed a stone, it can be particularly helpful to have it analyzed in a laboratory to determine the precise type of stone so specific prevention measures can be considered.

Recent research done showed that taking right calcium-rich foods or calcium supplements extracted from vegetables can prevent calcium stones because they can bind with oxalates and expel in the stool. This cleared the misunderstanding that excessive intake of calcium causes kidney stones when in fact taking too little calcium and oxalic acid are the main culprits. 99% of our calcium is stored in the bones and teeth and our body draws down when the calcium in the blood is insufficient for its normal functioning. Over a period of time, the bones can turn brittle if calcium level in the bones is not restored (leading to osteoporosis or bone spur)

Diabetic sufferers should avoid milk products and concentrate on calcium supplement.

Always keep pH in the urine alkaline to prevent substances from suspending in the renal area. However, note that the chance of bacteria thriving in such an environment is higher. Taking Vitamin C sporadically can alleviate the situation.

Treatment

Most kidney stones eventually pass through the urinary tract on their own within 48 hours, with ample fluid intake and controlling the symptoms. Pain medications can be prescribed for symptom relief.

There are several factors which influence the ability to pass a stone like the size of the person, prior stone passage, prostate enlargement, pregnancy, and the size of the stone. A 4 mm stone has an 80% chance of passage, while a 5 mm stone has a 20% chance. Stones larger than 9-10 mm rarely pass on their own and usually require treatment.

Symptoms to observe:

Changes in your urinary function: The first symptom of kidney disease is changes the amount, frequency of your urination. There may be an increase or decrease in amount and/or its frequency, especially at night. It may also look more dark colored. You may feel the urge to urinate but are unable to do so when you get to the restroom.

Difficulty or pain during voiding : Sometimes you have difficulty or feel pressure or pain while voiding. Urinary tract infections may cause symptoms such as pain or burning during urination. When these infections spread to the kidneys they may cause fever and pain in your back.

Blood in the urine: This is a symptom of kidney disease which is a definite cause for concern. There may be other reasons, but it is advisable to visit your doctor in case you notice it.

Swelling : Kidneys remove wastes and extra fluid from the body. When they are unable to do so, this extra fluid will build up causing swelling in your hands, feet, ankles and/or your face.

Extreme fatigue and generalized weakness : Your kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin which helps make red blood cells that carry oxygen. In kidney disease lower levels of erythropoietin causes decreased red blood cells in your body resulting in anemia. There is decreased oxygen delivery to cells causing generalized weakness and extreme fatigue.

Dizziness & Inability to concentrate : Anemia associated with kidney disease also depletes your brain of oxygen which may cause dizziness, trouble with concentration, etc.

Feeling cold all the time : If you have kidney disease you may feel cold even when in a warm surrounding due to anemia.

Pyelonephritis (kidney infection) may cause fever with chills.

Skin rashes and itching : Kidney failure causes waste build-up in your blood. This can causes severe itching and skin rashes.
Conclusion 
Prevention is better than the cure. 10 best ways to fight kidney failure and stones
1.  Avoid holding back urine.
2.  Maintain good hydration to enable toxins and wastes to be entirely flushed out.
3.  Cut down on sugar intake to reduce the burden of the kidneys
4.  Reduce animal proteins as they boost metabolic load on kidneys
5.  Reduce excess salt intake as it can lead to hypertension and kidney damage
6.  Sleep enough so that the kidneys can refresh.
7.  Have adequate intake of minerals and vitamin. (eg. Magnesium and Vitamin B6)
8.  Cut down on coffee consumption as it does cause some water loss.
9.  Alcohol is known to significantly impact the kidneys and liver.
10. Medicine and painkillers can cause kidney and liver damage.
VIVA corner

Dr Baldev Singh, a consultant cardiologist at Parkway Hospital Singapore (Mind your Body 19-8-2010) commented that the recent study linking calcium intake to heart attack focused on supplement that had only calcium, and not with magnesium and vitamin D added (help in calcium absorption). Dr Lau Kean Wah, a consultant cardiologist at Gleneagles Hospital echoed the same. Similar report by the US Government was reported in 2007 about the benefits of this formula in reducing heart attacks.

VIVA Calmag & D is a big winner for the best combination of Calcium (in the form of calcium lactate and calcium carbonate extracted from vegetables) fortified with Vitamin D3, magnesium (helps to regulate heart beat) and zinc (promotes healthy growth).

VIVA Omega 3 helps to reduce any inflammation and inhibit abnormal growth.

VIVAGuard with its powerful antioxidants, SOD and catalase can neutralise and scavenge harmful substances like free radicals and prevents excessive uric acid build-up.

VIVA Green Barley improves overall acidity and enables uric acid to be excreted. The chromium and amylase contents can promote the metabolism and utilization of carbohydrate and thus help to regulate blood sugar concentration.