Omega 3 and ADHD

  

Some kids who behave badly like not sitting still, do not listen and follow instructions no matter how clearly you present them, or who blurt out inappropriate comments at inappropriate times, are not likened and usually labeled as troublemakers, or criticized for being lazy and undisciplined.  These are signs of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that appears in early childhood. Is a frustrating attempt for people to inhibit their spontaneous responses that can involve everything from movement to speech to attentiveness.

Causes

+  ADHD is the most commonly studied and diagnosed psychiatric disorder in kids, affecting about 3-5% of them worldwide with two to four times more frequently in boys than in girls.  The disorder is highly heritable and that genetics are a factor in about 75% of all cases.

+  On environmental factor, a 2010 study found that pesticide exposure is also strongly associated with an increased risk of ADHD in kids these days. Elevated mercury levels, which can come from eating commercially-bred fish were tied to a higher risk of developing the symptoms, such as hyperactivity and inattentiveness. Pregnant mothers have to take note of this.

Brain structure

Scans done on such kids showed reduced blood circulation (indicating low neural activity) and low dopamine level in the frontal cortex associated with immediate attention and short term memory resulting in low content retention. This condition is not so much due to low dopamine production but rather by a decrease of actively looking for pleasant stimuli and poor motivation. For such abnormality, there is a prominent delay by about 3 years from normal development in the frontal cortex and temporal lobe, as both are responsible for the ability to control and focus thinking.


What to look out for?

Do not mistaken ADHD kids to be hyperactive only because there are those who are quiet with their attention miles away. Some put too much focus on a task and have trouble shifting it to something else. Others are only mildly inattentive, but overly impulsive. Hence kids who only have inattentive symptoms of ADHD are often overlooked, since they are not disruptive.

In summary, kids with ADHD may be:

• Inattentive, but not hyperactive or impulsive.
• Hyperactive and impulsive, but able to pay attention.
• Inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive (the most common form of ADHD and easier to spot amongst schooling kids).

Symptoms of inattentiveness:

• Does not pay attention to details
• Makes careless mistakes
• Has trouble staying focused and easily distracted
• Appears not to listen when spoken to
• Has difficulty remembering things and following instructions
• Has trouble staying organized, planning ahead and finishing projects
• Gets bored with a task before it is completed
• Frequently loses or misplaces homework, books, toys, or other items

Symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive may include:
+   Fidget and squirm in their seats
+   Talk nonstop
+   Dash around, touching or playing with anything and everything in sight
+   Have trouble sitting still during dinner, school and story time
+   Be constantly in motion
+   Have difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities
Symptoms of impulsivity:
+   Be very impatient
+   Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences
+   Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games.

Trouble begins…

When a child displays a number of ADHD signs and symptoms that are present across all situations—at home, at school and at play, it is time to give the child some help by finding creative solutions and discovering their strengths to focus on, so as to manage and minimize the symptoms. The time is imperative because these kids are unlikely to focus and control themselves, and may struggle in school, get into frequent trouble, and find it hard to get along with others or make friends. Such frustrations and difficulties can lead to low self-esteem as well as friction and stress for the entire family. Remember that if the issue is not addressed, it can continue into adulthood and outgrow the problem.

Just because a child has symptoms of inattention, impulsivity or hyperactivity does not mean that he or she has ADHD. Certain medical conditions, psychological disorders, and stressful life events can also cause symptoms that look like ADHD.

Looking at a positive angle, there are also positive traits associated with people who have ADHD:

• Creativity– They can be marvelously creative and imaginative. The child who daydreams and has many thoughts at once can become a master problem-solver, a fountain of ideas or an inventive artist. Though they may be easily distracted, but can notice things which others do not see.
• Flexibility– Given their abilities to consider a wide range of options, they do not fix on one alternative prematurely and are more open to different ideas.
• Enthusiasm and spontaneity– Such kids are rarely boring! In fact they are lively personalities and are live-wires in social circles.
• Energy and drive– Once motivated, they work or play hard and strive to succeed. It actually may be difficult to distract them from a task that interests them, especially if the activity is interactive or hands-on.

ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence or talent but ADHD kids are intellectually or artistically gifted.  So is important to give them the right support and harness their powerful energies to get on track for success in all aspects of life.

How Omega 3 helps?

As mentioned above, ADHD kids are found to have reduced blood circulation in the brain. Being the center of all intellectual ability, it is can thus affect the ability to focus and concentrate. Other factors - environment and dietary factors should be closely monitored too. An environment that is free of distractions and conducive to concentration is important. Diet also affects the child’s ability to focus and this can easily be corrected by diet modification program for instance introduce essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrient such as Omega 3 fatty acids.

Basically our brain comprises 70% fats of which 20% is DHA. Similar to EPA, DHA is also an essential fat, which mean the bodies cannot manufacture and thus has to be obtained from external sources. With insufficient intake, the development of brain and nervous system especially for the children can be adversely affected.

Studies found that eating at least 2 servings of fish per week was linked to about 60% lower risk of kids developing certain ADHD-like symptoms. These ADHD kids showed definite improvements in their school grades and ability to concentrate. Such changed behaviors help them to become calmer, focused and better able to achieve their full potential. 

VIVA corner

Where fish is not available or there is an aversion to eating more fish, dietary supplement of concentrated fish oil capsules is an excellent alternative. Choosing a product that is pure and concentrated and has the highest levels of DHA and EPA fatty acids is important for higher effectiveness. VIVA Omega3 offers this combination as well as check stringently on mercury contamination.


The growing children require more DHA than EPA. The recommended ratio of DHA: EPA in most infant formula should be range 1:1-2:1 for the optimum weight and development. VIVA Sma-tee provides DHA:EPA in 1.8 : 1.0. To achieve a daily intake of 200 mg DHA, 2 capsule is good enough.

Stay healthy with Vitamin B (with testimony)

The host of Vitamin B are not a single vitamin, but chemically distinct vitamins that often coexist in the same foods. In general, there are 8 types of B supplements collectively known as vitamin B complex.

Vitamin B is found abundantly in most foods shown. Being water-soluble, they disperse throughout the body and must be replenished regularly, with any excess excreted in the urine.  There are hardly known health problems arising from excessive oral intake thus far. However, a single vitamin B type or synthetic form may produce some side effects if taken on prolonged periods.

B vitamins play a vital role in cell metabolism and other proper bodily functioning. Some health benefits are as follows:

• Enhance skin complexion and hair texture
• Support and increase metabolic rate useful for those who want to lose weight
• Enhance immunity and aid in the formation of neuro-transmitters to keep a healthy nervous system. Expect to see relieve symptoms caused by stress and improve memory, response and thinking process (also good for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Also prevents anxiety and depression.
• Gain in muscle strength, great for arthritis and joint dysfunction
• Reduce homocysteine level to slow buildup of bad cholesterol and help to increase good cholesterol.  Homocysteine is an amino acid that can hamper blood flow up in the blood vessel before its conversion into cholesterol.
• Work as coenzymes in the metabolic system to aid enzyme function, assist the absorption and metabolism of carbohydrate, fat and protein. In this way the liver can function more efficiently.
• Inhibit tumor growth and reduce the risk of most difficult to treat cancer – pancreatic cancer. It aids in the production of p53 which has anti-cancerous effect.
• Promote growth of friendly bacteria in our gastrointestinal system for optimum nutrient absorption.

Sources

-  B vitamins are found in whole unprocessed foods whilst processed carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour tend to have lower B vitamin content.
-  High concentration is found in meat products such as turkey, tuna and any liver.
-  Healthy B vitamins are from plants like whole grains, potatoes, bananas, lentils, chili peppers, tempeh and beans.

Types

-  Improves blood circulation and assists in blood formation
-  Involves in carbohydrate metabolism and the production of hydrochloric acid, vital for proper digestion
-  Optimises cognitive activity and brain function
-  Clears free radicals arising from aging, alcohol consumption and smoking

Deficiency: Due to drugs, oral contraceptives, heavy alcohol/coffee consumption can cause:

-  Beriberi, a nervous system disease
-  Constipation, enlarged liver, fatigue, forgetfulness, appetite loss, muscle atrophy, severe weight loss, nervousness, gastrointestinal disturbances etc

Caution: Those who resort to injection of Vitamin B due to poor absorption in the digestive system should be beware that high-dose thiamine (or B1) injections into the vein or muscle can have side effect because niacin causes the dilation of small-skin blood vessels. A flushing reaction can occur, including redness of the face, arms and chest, burning, tingling, itching or headaches. It is not dangerous and usually goes away on its own in 1 to 2 hours.                           

-  Required for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration and growth
-  Relieves eye fatigue and cataract problem
-  Aids in metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats
-  Improves the mucous membranes in the digestive tract

Deficiency:

-  Affects proper development of foetus during pregnancy
-  Cracks and sores at the corner of the mouth
-  Eye disorders
-  Hair loss, insomnia, light sensitivity, poor digestion, retard growth and slowed mental response
-  Carpel tunnel syndrome

Caution: Reported side effects from taking more than 10 mg per day of riboflavin include sun-induced eye damage, itching or numbing sensations and orange-tinted urine. It could interact negatively with certain other medications and supplements. Also, keep in mind that taking large amounts of one B-complex vitamin can cause an imbalance of other B-vitamins.

-  Needed for proper circulation and healthy skin
-  Aids in the proper functioning of the nervous system
-  Assists in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and production of hydrochloric acid
-  Involves in the secretion of bile and stomach acids
-  Involves in production of sex hormones
-  Lowers cholesterol and improves circulation
-  Improves mental illnesses

Deficiency:

-  Canker sores, dementia, depression, diarrhoea, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, indigestion, insomnia, appetite loss, skin eruptions, low blood sugar

Caution:  Amounts over 500 mg daily of niacin can cause liver damage if taken over prolonged periods. It may elevate blood sugar levels too.

Vitamin B₅ (pantothenic acid)

-  Involves in vital bodily functions like production of hydrochloric acid, absorption of fats and proteins, maintenance of sodium and potassium balance, promotion of red blood cell formation, properly functioning of the brain, synthesis of the nucleic acids RNA and DNA, prevention of arteriosclerosis (due to homocysteine) and cancer.

Deficiency:

-  anemia, headaches, nausea, sore tongue, vomiting, acne, cracks or sores on the mouth and lips, depression, dizziness, fatigue, impaired wound healing, mouth and gum inflammation, impaired memory, hair loss, oily facial skin, stunted growth, tingling sensations, Carpel tunnel syndrome

Caution:  Prolonged use of high doses like 1000 mg daily can be toxic, and may result in nerve damage and loss of coordination.

Vitamin B6 is used by the body every single day since it plays a part in such major functions including movement, memory, energy expenditure and blood flow. Basically, it helps to make hemoglobin that carries oxygen in red blood cells throughout the body, to provide energy from the food that we eat, to balance blood sugar levels, and to create antibodies that our immune system uses to protect us.


Deficiency:

• Low energy or fatigue
• Worsening of PMS symptoms (on contraceptive pills)
• Worsening symptoms of anemia
• Changes in mood, such as irritability, anxiety and depression
• Muscle pain

Caution: When someone has too much synthetic vitamin B6 from within their body, reactions including muscle numbness, confusion and other unpleasant temporary symptoms.

Vitamin B7 also known as Vitamin H is a catalyst for various metabolic reactions in the human body to extract energy. Owing to its water solubility, this vitamin is regularly diminished and thus needs constant replenishment. Though it is seldom lacking in the body as our intestinal bacteria is always involved in its production, frequent drug intake can cause the elimination of these bacteria. For such patients, including Vitamin B7 in the normal diet may reverse this condition.


The health benefits of Biotin include improved metabolism, tissue maintenance, healthy skin, weight loss, relief from heart problems, alopecia, Parkinson’s disease, Rett syndrome and vaginal candidiasis. It also aids in the synthesis of vital components and helps in maintaining blood sugar levels.


Deficiency occur amongst vegetarians, drinkers, seniors:
1. Hair loss
2. Fatigue and depression
3. Nausea
4. Muscle pains
5. Anemia


No toxicity has been reported with biotin intake. 

-  Child-bearing women must take more folic acid for nerve cell formation to avoid having premature birth and a neural tube defect foetus that can lead to a stillborn baby or permanent paralysis.

-  It converts the harmful substance homocysteine from forming plaques in arteries by converting it to other non-harmful amino acids in the body.
-  Vitamin B12 and folate are two most important Vitamin B necessary to form and mature the red blood cells, granulocytes and platelets.  A deficiency of either one can result in anemia characterised by larger than normal red cells. The white blood count and platelet count are usually below normal too.
-  As a coenzyme in DNA and RNA synthesis, it promotes cell growth and division, including that of the red blood cells for prevention of anemia especially amongst vegetarians and ladies under heavy menstruation (B6, B9 and B12 for blood formation)
-  Habitual smokers need more vitamin B12 and folic acid to prevent bronchial and lung cancer.
-  Researchers found that men with the highest levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folate in their blood scored highest on tests of their mental abilities.  These nutrients can help the brain to operate at peak levels. On the same note, it helps to mitigate depression and anxiety.

Deficiency:

-  Sore red tongue, anemia, fatigue, graying hair, growth impairment, insomnia, memory problems, paranoia, weakness, digestive disturbances

Caution:  Do not take high doses of folate for extended periods if you have a hormone-related cancer or seizure disorder.

-  Important for formation of red blood cells and thus prevents anemia.
-  Metabolises carbohydrates and fats and synthesis of proteins.
-  The chemical variants of the B₁₂ vitamin in them found in food are active for bacteria, but cannot be used by the human body.  Hence, Vitamin B12 deficiency can develop in individuals who have had all the stomach removed, stomach lining degenerating or when tapeworm/bacterial infections in the intestines. Injectable medication may have to be administered periodically.
-  Elderly/vegetarians tend to be deficient in vitamin B12 resulting in neuron disorders or mental problems as it is linked to neurotransmitter and maintenance of fatty sheaths (protect nerve endings)
-  Alcohol addicts and those with gastrointestinal inflammation tend to lose vitamin B12.

Deficiency:

-  Bone loss, chronic fatigue, constipation, depression, digestive disorders, dizziness, liver enlargement, eye disorders, memory loss, nervousness, headaches/migraines, palpitations, anemia, ringing in the ears and spinal cord degeneration.

More comments

+  Oral contraceptives and some medicated drugs deplete Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12 leading to clinical depression.


+  Always opt for natural over synthetic Vitamin B for easy bioavailability.

Viva corner

Viva B-easy offers the easy solution with all the entire range available in one, concentrated from yeast, in meeting our daily requirement.  Most working people are suffering from stress, fatigue, digestive disorders and liver malfunction and have to resort to medicated drugs for help.  Certainly taking this supplement can be a better relief.

Testimony

Not long ago I was coughing so badly that at one stage my heavy cough caused my spinal cord to ‘lock up’ and could barely move my entire upper body. I went for acupuncture treatment and was told that it would take few days to fix up. Next morning waking up was no better and decided to see a neurologist as arranged by a friend.

A VIVA friend recommended me to try out 4 tablets of VIVA B-easy for some relief to sooth the tight nerves. Bravo! In a matter of 15 mins, I was able to move my shoulder without any fuss. I followed his advice to take 4 more in the day and repeated again the next day. By the 3rd day, the ordeal is over without any pain whatsoever.

A week later, my brother met with similar encounter and I shared my experience with him. He did it the same way and got off quickly too.

I learn from this episode that Vitamin B helps in improving the elasticity of the nerves.

Ken Queck (VIVA ID 71000714)

Who am I ? - Alzhemier's

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive or behavioral decline. A neurodegenerative type of dementia, the disease starts mild and gets progressively worse.


Basically the total brain size shrinks with fewer nerve cells and connections.


Nerve fibers surrounding the hippocampus - the brain's memory center, become entangled and information is no longer carried properly to or from the brain. As such, new memories cannot be formed and old memories cannot be retrieved.

As more neurons die, additional parts of the brain are affected, and they begin to shrink. By the final stage of Alzheimer’s, damage is widespread, and brain tissue has shrunk significantly.

Causes

Dr. Alois Alzheimer who first identified the disease in 1906 found plaques which are numerous tiny, dense protein deposits known as beta-amyloid scattered throughout the brain that become toxic to brain cells at excessive levels. Brain cells depend on an internal support and transport system to carry nutrients and other essential materials throughout their long extensions. The tangles are within the brain neurons - from a disintegration of another protein, called tau. In Alzheimer's, threads of tau protein twist into abnormal tangles inside brain cells, leading to failure of the transport system.


In a nutshell, abnormal deposits of proteins form amyloid plaques and tau tangles throughout the brain, and once-healthy neurons stop functioning, lose connections with other neurons and eventually die.


Symptoms


As Alzheimer's accounts for between 60% and 80% of all cases of dementia, doctors have to be satisfied that there are symptoms of dementia present.


Observations involved cognitive or behavioral symptoms that show a decline from previous levels of "functioning and performing" and interfere with ability "to function at work or at usual activities. Also, symptoms of memory loss, especially in the area of learning and recalling new information.


Typical early symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include:

• Regularly forgetting recent events or appointments, names and faces.
• Repetitive questions or conversations after a very short interval.
• Misplacing personal belongings or putting them in odd places.
• Uncertainty about the date or time of day.
• Getting lost on a familiar route or becoming unsure of their whereabouts or getting lost, particularly in unusual surroundings.
• Impaired speaking, reading and writing.
• Becoming low in mood, anxious or irritable, losing self-confidence or showing less interest in favorite activities.

As the disease progresses, the patient may have reactions that seem out of character like compulsive, obsessive, temperamental or socially unacceptable behavior. Some common reactions include repeating the same action or words, hiding possessions, physical outbursts and restlessness.


It can deteriorate further to affect a person’s coordination and mobility, to the point of inability to perform day-to-day tasks such as eating, bathing and getting dressed. Some do experience incontinence and neglect personal hygiene completely.


Finally, the most prominent deficits in "executive dysfunction" would be to do with reasoning, judgment and problem-solving. The person feels severely confused, disoriented and even hallucinated.  No longer can one intend or control the behavior with the resultant change in the brain structure. As a result, there may be total dependence on others for basic care. In the worst scenario, the person may be bedridden as the body shuts down.


Risk factors


(1)  Controllable factors


Some evidence suggests that the same factors that put you at risk of heart disease also may increase the chance that you will develop Alzheimer's. Examples include:

• Lack of exercise
• Obesity
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• High blood pressure
• High blood cholesterol
• Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
• A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables

Late-onset Alzheimer's arises from a complex series of brain changes that occur over decades. The causes probably include a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors (enumerated above). The importance of any one of these factors in increasing or decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s may differ from person to person.



(2)  Uncontrollable factors


People with early-onset Alzheimer's represent less than 5% of all sufferers with genetic mutation being the usual cause. Having Alzheimer's runs in the family is associated with higher risk which may manifest around 30-60 years of age. Having a certain gene (the apolipoprotein E or APOE gene) puts a person, depending on their specific genetics, at 3-8 times more risk than a person without the gene.


Other contributory factors include:

Age - though not a normal part of aging, it afflicts 10% of the general population over 65 and as many as 50% over 85.

Prior head injury - mostly tie to the severity of trauma history.

Sleep disorders (eg. the breathing problem sleep apnea).

Low educational and occupational attainment.

Down syndrome -  signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's tend to appear 10 to 20 years earlier in people with Down syndrome than the general population because they have an extra copy of chromosome 21, which contains the gene that generates harmful amyloid.

Precautions/prevention


There is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease - the death of brain cells in the dementia cannot be halted or reversed. Research has some interesting findings which call for modification of lifestyle to reduce the occurrence or severity of the disease:


(1)  Most sufferers are found lacking in nutrition due to unbalanced diet, consuming too much processed foods and drug medication. For example:
-  Vitamin B range are vital in cognitive functioning.   
-  Antioxidants like Vitamin A, C and E are crucial in clearing free radicals which can attack the brain cells.
-  Minerals such as boron, potassium and selenium are important in preserving cell integrity.


(2)  Autopsies of patients who have died of Alzheimer's reveal excessive amounts of aluminum in their hippocampus area and in the cerebral cortex -the external area of grey matter responsible for higher brain functions eg. abstract thinking, judgment, memory and language.


(3)  Another toxic metal that can penetrate the blood barrier encapsulating the brain is mercury. For most people, the release of mercury from dental amalgams is the primary means of this exposure.


(4)  Powerful immune system proteins called complement proteins have been found around the plaques and tangles in the brains of patients dying from Alzheimer's. Some experts theorize that such proteins normally help to clear away dead or degenerating cells which in turn produce amyloid. Unfortunately, the immune system attacks the healthy cells as well resulting in a critical mass accumulating in the brain.


Recommendations

The Alzheimer's Association recommends important some elements of dementia care:

• Effective management of any conditions occurring alongside the Alzheimer's.
• Activities and/or programs of adult day care - A new study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, finds that any kind of exercise can improve brain volume and cut the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 50%.
• Support groups and services.

A nutritious diet, physical activity, social engagement and mentally stimulating pursuits have all been associated with helping people stay healthy as they age. These factors might also help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.


Though aging is a natural process, we do not have to end up suffering from Alzhemier's!


Viva corner

Viva Oxypower contains coenzyme10 which helps to increase oxygenation of cells and is involved in the generation of cellular energy. B-easy with its folic acid content to aid in controlling homocysteine levels and B12 content to boost memory and cognitive functions.

People with Alzheimer's tend to have a shortage of some vital chemical messengers
which are responsible for transmitting signals around the brain. Viva Biolecthin with choline can assist to improve nerve communication.

Chloroguard is an well-rounded product that provides a whole range of vitamins, aminos, fiber and minerals. Its Omega3 content provides the essential DHA for proper brain functioning. It is also a blood cleanser agent that can remove heavy metals from obstructing circulation. Viva Ageguard provides the amino acids for the formation of regenerative tissue.

Liquick gingko helps to improve blood circulation in the capillaries lying the brain so that more oxygen can be delivered before more brain cells are suffocated. The grape seed extract in Cellpex is a potent antioxidant that readily passes the blood brain barrier to protect brain cells from radical damage.

Lost in time - dementia

 

Senility is defined as the weakness or mental infirmity of old age, and is associated with the deterioration of the body and mind in the elderly (usually defined in this context as over 65 years of age). It is commonly referred to as dementia.

Different areas of the brain control different skills and abilities. When mental functions such as memory, language, orientation or judgment deteriorate, this may be a direct result of the way dementia has affected the brain. In simple terms, it refers to a loss of brain cells to a point where mental disability results.

Causes

There are various diseases associated with senility though not all of them are directly associated with advanced age and can occur in children and babies.

These degenerative brain diseases include:

• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Vascular Dementia
• Huntington’s Chorea
• Creutzfeldt-Jakob
• Lewy Body Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of senility, where people experience extreme forgetfulness such as difficulty remembering past events (especially the more recent ones) as well as learning new things. Damage to the brain begins years before symptoms appear. Abnormal protein deposits form plaques and tangles in the brain of someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Connections between cells are lost, and begin to die. In advanced cases, the brain shows significant shrinkage.

Other causes of senility include:

• Drug addiction
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stroke
• Poor nutrition
• Thyroid dysfunction (e.g. Hashimoto’s Disease)
• Alcoholism
• Constant lack of sleep

A recent study conducted found people in their 30s and 40s who are constantly lacking sleep could find themselves with dementia by their 60s.  This is because in our slumber the brain is clearing the protein wastes (beta amyloid) that develop when it processes the energy required. The rate of clearance is estimated to be 6 times during this time as compared to awakening hours.  Failure to reduce this accumulated pile can result in brain damage in the years to come.

Other less common conditions which may accompany senility include:

• Urinary Tract Infection
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Wilson’s Disease
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
• Brain Tumor
• AIDS Dementia

Diagnose

Properly diagnosing degenerative brain diseases like senility requires a professional screening and/or evaluation by a healthcare practitioner. An accurate assessment is after 6 months of signs and symptoms present observed by the sufferer or close family and friends. In all types of general cognitive dysfunction, higher mental functions are affected first in the process.

Signs & Symptoms

Senility is caused by the degeneration of the brain cells. As a result, senility symptoms can include:

• Progressive memory loss
• Anorexi
• Poor judgment
• Impaired concentration
• Confusion

Often, noticeable personality changes are signs of senility.

Symptoms of dementia can be classified as either reversible or irreversible, depending upon the etiology of the disease. Less than 10% of cases of dementia are due to causes that may presently be reversed with treatment. Causes include many different specific disease processes, in the same way that symptoms of organ dysfunction such as shortness of breath, jaundice, or pain are attributable to many etiologies.

Pain

As people age, they experience more health problems, which mostly carry a substantial burden of pain. Statistics put between 25% and 50% of older adults experiencing persistent pain. Seniors with dementia experience the same prevalence of conditions likely to cause pain as seniors without dementia. Pain is often overlooked in older adults and, when screened for, often poorly assessed, especially among those with dementia. Beyond the issue of humane care, unrelieved pain has functional implications. Persistent pain can lead to decreased ambulation, depressed mood, sleep disturbances, impaired appetite and exacerbation of cognitive impairment, and pain-related interference with activity is a factor contributing to falls in the elderly.

Help needed

+ Generally, because it is a degenerative condition, individuals suffering from senility become progressively worse with time. Especially in the later stages of the condition, affected persons may be disoriented in time (not knowing what day of the week, day of the month, or even what year it is), in place (not knowing where they are), and in person (not knowing who they are or others around them).

+ Additional mental and behavioral problems often affect people who have dementia, and may influence quality of life, caregivers and the need for institutionalization. As dementia worsens individuals may neglect themselves and may become disinhibited and incontinent as their condition worsens. Dementia, though often treatable to some degree, is usually due to causes that are progressive and incurable.

+ Even for incurable cases, early recognition can allow you to create a management plan that will ensure the greatest quality of life for the greatest amount of time, while lessening common senility symptoms. A thorough examination and accurate diagnosis is necessary to create a successful management plan.

+ Adult daycare centers as well as special care units in nursing homes often provide specialized care for dementia patients. Adult daycare centers offer supervision, recreation, meals and limited health care to participants, as well as providing respite for caregivers.

+ While some preliminary studies have found that music therapy may be useful in helping patients with dementia, their quality has been low and no reliable conclusions can be drawn from them.

+ Medications can be prescribed to slow the progress of senility and other degenerative brain diseases, but success is often coupled with unwanted side effects, particularly in the elderly patient. In any case, medication should be used in conjunction with psychiatric or behavioral therapies.

+ Unlike prescription medications, alternative therapies like natural remedies are virtually free of these unwanted side effects, and are a welcome treatment option for managing senility symptoms. They also work well in combination with psychiatric or behavioral therapies.

+ Additionally, proper nutrition, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices are important in sustaining mental clarity. As we grow older, it is important to participate in stimulating activities, thus keeping our minds active, this is especially true for the elderly.

+ To be healthy in late life, a rich accumulation of life experiences – education, marriage, socializing, a stimulating job, language skills, having a purpose in life, physical activity and mentally demanding leisure activities help to keep the brain going. One can even have significant Alzheimer’s pathology and no symptoms of dementia due to such high cognitive reserve, says David Bennett, M.D., of Chicago’s Rush University Medical Center.

 

Hence, do not neglect the importance of social interaction, good friends and family relationships to enjoy a fruitful ripe age.

Source: http://www.nativeremedies.com/ailment/senility-degenerative-brain-diseases-info.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dementia

Nutritional benefits

+ A combination of herbal and homeopathic remedies such as Ginkgo biloba, Hawthorn, Rosemary and American Ginseng provide safe, effective relief and support the brain and mental health.

+ Vitamin deficiencies and chronic infections may occur at any age, with symptoms manifesting before dementia occurs. Hence, routine blood tests can be performed to rule out treatable causes when an elderly is suspected of abnormalities like confusion or disorientation.

+ Degenerative dementia can be due to deficiencies of vitamin₁₂, folate or niacin (all found in the Vitamin B family). High levels of the amino acid homocysteine are linked to brain shrinkage and an increased risk of Alzheimer's and B vitamins are known to suppress it. In a study conducted among participants taking high doses of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12, blood levels of homocysteine were lowered as was the associated brain shrinkage – by up to 90%!


+  A “severe deficiency” of vitamin D boosts older Americans’ risk of cognitive impairment 400%, an alarming study by England’s University of Exeter finds. Experts recommend a daily dose of 800 IU to 2,000 IU of vitamin D3.  Researchers believe that optimal vitamin D levels may enhance the amount of important chemicals in your brain and protect brain cells by increasing the effectiveness of the glial cells in nursing damaged neurons back to health.

VIVA corner

+  Ageguard and Royal Jelly increases and balances hormones respectively and thus retards aging.


+  Biolecithin improves neuro transmission of messages with its protective mechanism on the myelin sheath covering the neurons.

+  Dailyguard provides a host of nutrients to feed the cells for healthy growth.

+  High intake of the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA is essential for preserving the brain cells and eliminates any inflammation, thereby slowing down its progression and lowering your risk of developing brain disorder.

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How brain works (I)

Physiologically, the function of the brain is to exert centralized control over the other organs of the body either by generating patterns of muscle activity or by driving secretion of chemicals called hormones.

The brain is made of three main parts: the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. The forebrain consists of the cerebrum, thalamus and hypothalamus (part of the limbic system).

 

The cerebrum or cerebral cortex is the largest part of the human brain, associated with higher brain function such as thought and action. Its wavy structure enables the brain to function more efficiently,  because it can increase its surface area and the amount of neurons within it - estimated to contain 15–33 billion neurons each connected by synapses to several thousand other neurons.

Frontal Lobe- associated with reasoning, planning, parts of speech, movement, emotions and problem solving.  A damage can lead to changes in sexual habits, socialization and attention as well as increased risk-taking.

Parietal Lobe- associated with movement, orientation, recognition, perception of stimuli.  A damage can result in problems with verbal memory, an impaired ability to control eye gaze and problems with language.

Occipital Lobe- associated with visual processing.  A damage can lead to problems with memory, speech perception and language skills.

Temporal Lobe- associated with perception and recognition of auditory stimuli, memory and speech. A damage can cause visual problems such as difficulty recognizing objects, an inability to identify colors and trouble recognizing words.

Brain damaging habits

+  People who skip breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level. This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration. It also causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power. 

+  Smoking causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease. 

+  Excessive sugar consumption interrupts the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development. 

+  The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in its efficiency. 

+  Sleep allows our brain to rest. Long term sleep deprivation accelerates the death of brain cells.

+  Sleeping with the head covered increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decreases concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects. 

+  Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness and damage the brain. 

+  Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage. 

+  Intellectual conversations do promote the efficiency of the brain and vice versa if talk rarely.

Differences of two sexes’ brains

In 2001, researchers from Harvard found that certain parts of the brain were differently sized in males and females, which may help balance out the overall size difference. The study found -

+ Parts of the frontal lobe, responsible for problem-solving and decision-making, and regulating emotions, were larger in women. 

+ In men, the parietal cortex, which is involved in space perception, and the amygdala, which regulates sexual and social behavior, were larger.

 

+ Men seem to think with their grey matter where nerve cells make up this surface of the cerebrum, filled with active neurons. Women think with the white matter, where fibers underneath carry signals between the neurons and other parts of the brain and body. In this way, a woman’s brain is a bit more complicated in setup, but those connections may allow a woman’s brain to work faster than a man’s. Some women even have as many as 12% more neurons than men do.

Knowing about the differences in male and female brains could open up tremendous opportunity in diagnosing and treating brain disorders. For example, depression and chronic anxiety occur more often in women as one study conducted showed that women produce only about half as much serotonin (a neurotransmitter linked to depression) as men and have fewer transporters to recycle it. Another plausible explanation is the female brain being more responsive to emotions and pain. On the contrary, men are more likely to be diagnosed with autism, Tourette’s syndrome, dyslexia and schizophrenia.

 

PROTECT your brain cells (II)

 

This picture illustrates the vital component cell and connectivity in our brain - the neuron or nerve cell.  An average human brain contains about 100 billion of such neurons which are connected at about one trillion points known as synapses. The signals that form your memories and thoughts move across the neurons as minute electric charges. When these charges reach a synapse, they trigger the release of the brain chemicals called neurotransmitters to enable signals to transmit to other nerve cells in progression.

Inadequate supply of neurotransmitters can render the mind to malfunction, resulting in a temporary blackout, loss of memory or permanent failure.


Functions of the brain

The brain weighing a mere 1.5 kg is the focal point of our thinking, feeling and behavior, that defines the characteristics of human nature – personality, temperament and impulses. Found within, the master gland known as pituitary gland, plays a vital role in regulating all the other functions of the hormonal glands in our body.

This explains why such a small organ consumes about 80% of available energy daily. This includes 15% of cardiac output, 20% of all oxygen consumption and 25% of total body glucose utilisation (glycogen is brain food). 

Hence, a disruption to the brain’s blood supply can impair its functioning and cause behavioral and personality changes at time.

Knowledge of brain-behavior relationships, the core basis of a scientific discipline named neuropsychology, plays a pivotal role in understanding the role reasons for some unusual behaviour associated with some mental disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson disease, schizophrenia, autism, depression, down syndrome and mania.

Unique features of the brain

Our brain pieced together with the spinal cord and peripheral ganglia, constitute the nervous system. With the exception of neural stem cells and a few other types of neurons, neurons do not undergo cell division and thus no regeneration of cells.

Note the peculiarity of our brain in that it is usually utilised up to 10% of capacity because most areas are channeled for storage purpose and random use only. People who use their talent to focus on a specific area tend to gain a stretch of the portion of the brain reserved for that purpose. For instance, Einstein registered at 27% widening of that section of his brain cut out for creativity.

Brain structure

A human brain is grossly divided into the interconnected left and right hemispheres, each with four functionally distinctive regions normally working concurrently: temporal (language processing and memory), occipital (vision), parietal (somatic or bodily sensations) and frontal (executive functions and planning).

Downsizing to cellular level, every neuron is surrounded by a plasma membrane, a bilayer of lipid molecules with many types of protein structures embedded in it – an important one is lecithin containing unsaturated fats, choline, glycerols and phospholipids. Basically it acts as a powerful electrical insulator.

A number of specialized types of neurons exist:

- Sensory neurons respond to touch, sound, light and numerous other stimuli affecting cells of the sensory organs that then send signals to the spinal cord and brain.

- Motor neurons receive signals from the brain and spinal cord, cause muscle contractions, and affect glands.

- Interneurons connect neurons to other neurons within the same region of the brain or spinal cord.

A neuron is made up of 4 parts:

+ Cell body or soma
The soma is the central part of the neuron. It contains the nucleus of the cell, and therefore is where most protein synthesis occurs

+ Dendrites
Thin structures that branch out in multiples from the cell body, often extending for hundreds of micrometres giving rise to a tree-shaped complex

+ Axon
An axon is a special cellular extension that arises from the cell body in single form at a site called the axon hillock (the part of the neuron that has the greatest density of voltage-dependent sodium channels) and travels for a distance, as far as 1 m in humans or even more in other species, giving rise to hundreds of branches along the way. It is often possible for severed peripheral axons to regrow but take longer time.

+ Axon terminals
At the tip of the axon, the axon terminal contains synapses, specialized structures where neurotransmitter chemicals are released to communicate with target neurons.
Communication is usually passed on when signals are sent from the axon of one neuron to a dendrite or soma of another. Exceptions do happen eg. neurons that lack dendrites or have no axon; synapses that connect an axon to another axon or a dendrite to another dendrite.

Communication within….

Imagine the cell as our earth encrusted with an ozone layer and the core where major activities take place.

The interior of the neurons are electrically active where ion channels are found that discharge electrical ions to flow across the membrane, and ion pumps that actively transport ions from one side of the membrane to the other.

Most ion channels are permeable only to specific types of ions and some are voltage-gated, meaning that they can be switched between open and closed states by altering the voltage difference across the membrane. Others are chemically gated, meaning that they can be switched between open and closed states by interactions with chemicals that diffuse through the extracellular fluid.

The interactions between ion channels and ion pumps produce a voltage difference across the membrane. This voltage has dual functions: first, to provide a power source for an assortment of voltage-dependent protein machinery that is embedded in the membrane; second, to provide a basis for electrical signal transmission between different parts of the membrane.

Signal out…..

Neurons communicate by chemical and electrical synapses in a process known as synaptic transmission. The fundamental process that triggers synaptic transmission is the action potential, a propagating electrical signal that is generated by harnessing the energy generated on the membrane of the neuron.

Imagine axons as the wire cables. Thin neurons and axons require less metabolic effort to produce and carry the action potentials, but thicker axons convey impulses more rapidly. To minimize such metabolic expense while maintaining rapid conduction, many neurons have insulated myelin sheaths around their axons to aid in speeding up than in unmyelinated axons of the same diameter.


What can go wrong?


With increasing age, the brain undergoes a number of changes that affect its functionality:


+  Certain areas of the brain actually shrink, including the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex, which are involved in memory, learning and other complex mental activities.


+  Not only neurons shrink, the connections between the neurons also deteriorate and become less extensive, causing the level of neurotransmitters to decrease.


+  The aging brain undergoes a gradual reduction in blood flow and may accelerate the process of inflammation within. In a stroke incident, the blood supply to a certain region of the brain is interrupted due to blockage or rupture of blood vessels. Lacking blood supply for a short intermittent period can lead to irreversible cell death and half functioning in that specific region. The patient can lose expressive speech, voluntary control of the arms and legs, or emotional control.


+  The deteriorating effect is worsened with free radical attacks from external sources.


+  One’s brain cells can die gradually if they are underutilised for prolonged period or lack of nourishment. Hence, it is advisable to keep the mind alert by thinking hard, interact with more people daily and avoid too much idling moments like watching soap operas on television.


Other associated disorders -

+ Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disorder that results from demyelination of axons in the brain and spinal cord. The nerve damage is caused by inflammation which occurs when the body’s own immune cells attack the nervous system, commonly linked to a virus or genetic defect, or a combination of both. Most sufferers are women in the age group 20-40.

+ Dementia is the medical term used to describe a group of symptoms consisting of memory loss, impaired judgment, disorientation and behavioral changes, which are of sufficient severity to cause loss of function. It is not part of normal aging, although the elderly are more susceptible to becoming demented. In our modern societies school children and working adults under stress can be victims of dementia too. A simple test to conduct is to replay all happenings for the last 3 days. If you failed to recall most matters, beware that dementia is developing within.

+ Alzheimer’s disease is a neuro-degenerative disease characterized by progressive cognitive deterioration with declining activities of daily living and neuropsychiatric symptoms or behavioral changes. The most striking early symptom is loss of short-term memory (is like memory full), which usually manifests as minor forgetfulness that becomes steadily more pronounced with illness progression, with relative preservation of older memories. As the disorder progresses, cognitive (intellectual) impairment extends to the domains of language, skilled movements and recognition, and functions such as decision-making and planning become impaired. A dissection of the brain tissue will show brownish patches of protein plaques and a shrinkage of brain size.

+ Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that often impairs the sufferer’s motor skills and speech. It belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders, characterized by muscle rigidity, tremor, a slowing of physical movement and in extreme cases, a loss of physical movement. The primary symptoms are the results of decreased stimulation of the motor cortex by the basal ganglia, normally caused by the insufficient formation and action of dopamine, which is produced in the dopaminergic neurons of the brain. Secondary symptoms may include high level cognitive dysfunction and subtle language problems. It is both chronic and progressive.

Preventive measures

Proper nutrition, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices are important in sustaining mental clarity.

+ As we grow older, it is important to participate in stimulating activities, thus keeping our minds active. In fact, aging process has little, if any, bearing on the ability to recall information.

+ Having a rich accumulation of life experiences – education, marriage, socializing, a stimulating job, language skills, a purpose in life, physical activity and mentally demanding leisure activities, keep the brain going if are able to score on high cognitive reserve, says David Bennett, M.D., of Chicago’s Rush University Medical Center.

+ Alcoholics and drug addicts often suffer a great deal from memory loss.

+ Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can affect the brain function as it requires the level of glucose in the blood to fall within a very specific narrow range.

+ Medications can be prescribed to slow the progress of senility and other degenerative brain diseases, but success is often coupled with unwanted side effects, particularly in the elderly patient. If medications had to be applied, they should be used in conjunction with psychiatric or behavioral therapies.

VIVA corner

One reason why many people suffer from memory loss is an insufficient supply of necessary nutrients to the brain. Blood is the life giver, feeding and nourishing every cell within our bodies. The brain is surrounded by a protective envelope known as the blood-brain barrier, which allows only certain substances to pass from the bloodstream to the brain. Do not let this area be clogged or nutrient-rich blood cannot reach the brain cells and become malnourished.

+ The precursor of lecithin, choline is a neurotransmitter that sends message to and from the brain and is shown to have a significant effect in delaying the deterioration of memory and deceleration of the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease. The protective sheath surrounding the brain and the interior of nerve cells also contain lecithin for proper central nervous functioning. VIVA Biolecithin is formulated based on scientific grounds and contains much lecithin precursors.

+ Vitamin B complex enhances immunity, involved in dopamine production and aids in the formation of neuron transmitters to keep a healthy nervous system. Expect to see relieve symptoms caused by stress and improve memory, response and thinking process. Viva B-easy offers the easy solution with all the entire range available in one, concentrated from yeast, in meeting our daily requirement.

+ According to scientific studies, DHA is the main component of human cerebral cortex (about 80%)and thus sufficient intake of DHA is important for brain development, especially in protecting brain tissue and reducing brain tissue injury. VIVA Omega 3 offers high EPA and DHA content extracted from high concentrated deep sea fish body oil in a more absorbable triglyceride form.

+ The major function of the gingko biloba leaf is to increase blood circulation to the brain, enhance nervous transmission, delay the aging process of the temporal and limbic lobe in the brain that responsible for memory management. Senile dementia patients suffer from poor blood circulation to the brain causing those cells to shrink in size due to the lack of oxygen. It works for people suffering from migraine, memory loss and cold limbs. Basically, gingko works well in penetrating through tiny capillaries and dilate blood vessels to improve peripheral circulation. VIVA Liquick Gingko is a highly concentrated extract from the gingko leaves in the ratio of 50:1.

+ Our brain cells are made up of protein building blocks known as amino acids. With passing time the master (pituitary) glands secretes lesser and lesser hormones, leading to degeneration of brain cells and neurotransmitters. Coupled with insufficient intake of nutrients, premature aging sets in readily. VIVA Ageguard is a proprietary formulation of free form amino acids that act as natural HGH releaser to defy aging process.

Multiple Sclerosis

  

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive, degenerative disorder affecting the central nervous system comprising the brain, optic nerve and spinal cord.

The effect can be inflammation and scarring on the myelin sheaths of the brain and spinal cord. Once replaced by hard scar, it results in improper neuron function and jerky shaky movements. The nerve fibers can then be affected by the scar tissue and lead to total incapacitation for severe cases. Overall, it has very little effect on a patient’s life span.

This is a disease hard to predict as its course and symptoms vary with individuals. However, the chance of getting it is high for people with the following profile:

+ Women

+ Diagnosed before age 35

+ Have long intervals between relapses and complete recovery from relapses

+ Have relapses with sensory symptoms (such as numbness and tingling), rather than symptoms such as tremor or spasticity

A relapse (can be exacerbation, flare or attack) is either a worsening of symptoms that you experienced previously, or the appearance of new symptoms.  The types are as follows:

+  Relapsing-Remitting MS: The majority (about 85%) of people with MS receive an initial diagnosis with definite periods of relapses, then a remitting of symptoms, eventually recovers entirely or almost entirely.
+  Secondary-Progressive MS:  The symptoms steadily worsen for those who failed to recover.

+  Primary-Progressive MS: 15% of sufferers with the disease but no relapses or remissions, rather a steady course of progression.
+  Progressive-Relapsing MS: Only 6-10% of people receive this diagnosis where the disease follows a steady course of progression, but there is no relapse of acute symptoms.


Causes

 

-  The medical community believes this to be an auto-immune disorder, with the body’s immune system malfunctioning and producing antibodies to attack the myelin sheaths connecting the brain and spinal cord. It can also be invoked by a viral attack.

-  Controversies about the use of artificial sweetener with aspartame being a causative agent. As excitotoxins comprise 40% of its molecular structure, excessive exposure can damage the myelin sheath producing cells causing MS. Further combined with monosodium glutamate (MSG), this level is elevated several fold higher than normal. As a result it can convert a patient with benign, subclinical condition into full-blown clinical MS.

-  Other likely causes are: the environmental factors, infectious diseases and genetics.

Symptoms

There are over 50 known symptoms linked with MS, all which can vary in severity, duration and associated disability. The most common ones are:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Bladder dysfunction (severe cases)
• Numbness and/or tingling
• Sexual dysfunction
• Bowel dysfunction
• Pain
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Spasticity
• Tremor
• Vision problems
• Cognitive impairment
• PARALYSIS (advanced cases)

Diagnosis

Basing on symptoms alone may not be accurate as they also manifest in many other diseases and disorders. Other related issues are:

• Too many symptoms involved
• Symptoms may appear in isolation or combination
• Symptoms can vary in severity
• Symptoms can disappear suddenly

Beside checking on medical history, neurologists are likely to conduct combined tests like MRI scans, neurologic exam, lumbar puncture and blood test.

Treatment

MS is not curable. However, there are treatment that are showing great promise for slowing down the progression of the disease.

+  One example is medications prescribed for the disease-modifying therapies on progression to secondary-progressive MS that work to slow down the damage and symptoms caused by MS by preventing relapses.

+  Doctors may prescribe medications to address most symptoms or for behavioral or dietary modifications, physical therapy (to regain lost skills) or psycho-social therapy.
-  Exercise and massage reduce spasms and help maintain optimal condition of unaffected muscles.
-  Avoid stress and fatigue.
-  Avoid exposure to extremes of heat and cold
-  Infection to be treated promptly
-  Not overweight which can put stress on already weakened muscles

 

+  For relapse treatment, high-dose corticosteroids are usually applied intravenously to reduce inflammation in the central nervous system,  to shorten the duration and severity of relapses.

Source: http://ms.about.com/od/multiplesclerosis101/a/ms_intro.htm

Viva corner

Other than good nutrition for a MS patient, some supplementation can help to bring improvement.

+  As this is likely an auto-immune disorder, VIVA germanium can help to put the immune system in order and reduce pain.

+  VIVA Omega3 contains DHA that can protect brain tissue and prevent further injury.  Its EPA content can enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation.

+  An important component in VIVA Biolecithin – choline provides the link to send messages to and from the brain and thus crucial for strengthening the nervous tissue.

+  Antioxidants found in VIVA C complex and Vivashield are important in protecting cell membrane and DNA from oxidative damage, especially in relapse progression.