SECRETS of keeping YOUTHFUL and HEALTHY

 

Aging is the act of getting older and for most people is more than a disease state. The process begins the minute we are born and accelerates at 25 onwards when cell death surpasses its renewal rate. This biological process is definitely not within our control to change.

At 60 one can still be as vibrant as someone in the 30s by making healthy changes in diet and lifestyle choices eg. balanced diet, exercise, sufficient sleep, manage stress etc.

An external risk factor that is not visible but controllable -

Free radicals are the main cause of aging, disease development or death. They are produced abundantly in cigarette smoke, industrial wastes, pollution, ultraviolet light, chemicals, cooking process etc that can be linked to chronic and terminal illness like cancer, heart disease and arthritis. We can avoid such nuisances but cannot live without oxygen. Oxygen-based free radicals impart oxygen for our very existence but is also our greatest enemy. Why so?

Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that are extremely unstable and highly reactive. If they are present in excessive amounts, they begin attacking the body at the cellular level. Free radicals are known to attack the cells’ protective membranes and genetic material (the nucleic acids, DNA and RNA) causing cellular damage and malfunctioning. To make matter worse, the immune system may then attack the damaged cells as if they were foreign invaders (termed as auto-immune)

As they are so chemically reactive, they exist for only one-millionth of a second each, making studies quite impossible. However, their short presence can cause considerable damage to our cells. During this process our cells are being bombarded, leading to a halt in proper division. They can change form and release damaging proteins that harm bodily tissues, further contributing to the aging process. Coupled with slowing metabolism and nutritional deficiencies for most elderly over 60, the aging problem is aggravated. It is at this point that the correct nutrients are urgently required for the support, repair and regeneration of cells.

1st secret: Antioxidants to defy aging

Research found that 90% of older people living in urban area had an inadequate intake of most essential nutrients namely Vitamin A, B, C, calcium, selenium, iron and protein. Scientists discovered that Vitamin A, C, E and selenium are scavengers of free radicals. They are powerful antioxidants that can readily part atoms to the free radicals to stabilise their structure and deactivate their damaging effects.

For instance, when free radicals deplete our skin’s collagen, they cause the skin to lose its firmness and elasticity. The cellular turnover slows down, causing dullness, wrinkles and sagging skin. Antioxidants (both oral and skin applications) help to keep skin firm by protecting the skin’s collagen and elastic tissue from free radial attacks, thus preventing premature aging and wrinkles.

2nd secret: Taking Royal Jelly, a path to youthfulness and longevity

Royal Jelly is a natural food that can be useful in the fight against aging and sustaining youth. As a potent multi-vitamin supplement, it contains rich source of amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins (A-K), minerals, trace minerals, nucleic acids, enzymes, neurotransmitter acethylcholine and natural hormones that are vital for healthy immune system and anti-aging treatments.

Parotin in royal jelly can be transported through blood circulation to various parts of the body to revive the function of skin tissue, muscle tissue and cartilage tissue to normal stage. As such, it is a great help in ironing wrinkles for both sexes and to improve skin complexion making it fairer, smoother and most luscious. Its recent medical studies showed that it can inhibit and prevent cancerous diseases, enhance our natural immunity to fight off viruses and infections as well as boosting our energy level and improving our longevity.

3rd secret: Restore Human Growth Hormone (HGH) level to delay aging

Aging is directly linked to a reduced output of one or more of the endocrine system hormones, particularly human growth hormone (HGH), which is produced by our pituitary gland. This master gland controls the output of hormones to vital organs and body functions and is directly responsible for stimulating tissue repairs, cell replacement, brain functions and enzyme function. In addition, this hormone strengthens the immune system and helps the body resist oxidative damage.

HGH is produced in the greatest amount during the adolescence period when one experiences the fastest growth. After this period, HGH level drops at a rate of 14% per decade and by age 40 we produce only about 5% of the needed HGH. Accompanying the gradual drop, problems emerging we dread most - weight gain, loss of interest in sex, sagging skin and muscles, wrinkled skin that lacks good tone and texture.

No wonder many turn to HGH therapy to reverse or retard age-related symptoms of physical and mental decline. However, artificial hormone through injection may work counterproductive if not properly administered and can have side effects too. In view of this, we should stick to taking free form amino acids exclusively from soy and rice protein that act as HGH releaser to defy the aging process and also promote youthfulness without any side effect.

More comments

One can have vitality and a zest for living at any age. Growing older is an inevitable process but pain and illness can be avoided. Keeping a healthy body delays the biological aging process and thus achieve better metabolic health. Adding the right supplements if one is not taking a balanced diet can be useful to boost immunity, and prevent or cure most disorders.

Source: Prescription to Natural Healing

Viva corner

VIVA VIVASHIELD 4 in 1 combination of antioxidants is the first product in the world that has been clinically proven and published in the Medical Science Research 1996 Vol 24 No 5 to significantly reduce the levels of peroxides in the blood. It also contains a significant amount of phytochemicals (naturally derived anticancer agents).

VIVA ROYAL JELLY is made from 100% pure royal jelly. It promotes healthy endocrine function, relieves symptoms of menopause, improves skin complexion, reduces fatigue and boost energy.


VIVA AGEGUARD is a proprietary formulation of free form amino acids extracted from soy and rice protein with other unique ingredients, that act as natural HGH releaser by stimulating the pituitary glands to secrete more of the growth hormone.

The benefits of VIVA Ageguard: Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, improved sleep, improved energy, improved appearance of hairs and skin, cut fats and build muscle mass, promote youthfulness.


Other useful products are VIVA DAILYGUARD, a multivitamin supplement for those lacking a balanced diet, suffering from malnutrition and physically sick.


VIVA OMEGA 3 is highly recommended for those suffering from joint problems and cardiovascular disease.

MEN, Mind Your HEALTH Now!!

 

In the quest to strive for the best, majority of the men ignore their most important asset – HEALTH. Statistically, men die younger than women do. A recent national survey found that women are far more likely than men to get routine preventive care. In part because women tend to seek regular medical attention arising from issues like birth control and pregnancy, and to get screening tests like Pap smears and mammograms.






Owing to their neglects, men are susceptible to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke, pulmonary disease, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease. In general, men have poorer health and thus medical professionals are now targeting on males to mind their Health now!

The risk of being a MAN. 4 major concerns:

1. Aging and Andropause


Many men are not aware their bodies are undergoing silent changes on the journey downhill around the age of 45 because is not easy to spot warning signals. Like his other sex counterpart, menopause also strikes men and the term used is andropause.


Women usually treat irregular or no menstruation as an indicator of the beginning of menopause. A noted difference between them is females do not have any more protection from female hormones whilst men continue to enjoy declining level of androgen in the body till their golden age.


During andropause, he starts to witness a decline in vitality and virility due to falling hormone level, especially those of testosterone - the male hormone responsible for his good health, sex drive and fertility. The severity varies from one man to another. Once recognised, most men treat menopausal symptoms as a sign of aging and do nothing to alleviate the condition.


Symptoms

Symptoms experienced from ages 40-49 is estimated between 2-5%, rises to 6-30% for ages 50 -59, further rises to 20-45% for ages 60-69 and 34-70% for ages 70-79, and virtually all men over 80. For the younger counterparts, they are usually the busy executives who burn out the fastest due to stress or those who are unable to cope with stress well.

+ Men start to experience ebbing sex drive and can develop into impotency. He gets frustration in obtaining and sustaining an erection. However, if his spouse is also undergoing mid-life crisis, both may abstain from sex activity and this problem becomes less of a psychological burden.

+ More worrying is that he may develop chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis (more fractures and breaks) and prostate enlargement (urinary problems). With mounting problems, he may feel there is a lack of interest in life, get exhausted easily, depressed and develop insomnia.

+ A decrease in lean body mass, along with decreases in muscle mass and strength. This can result in an increase in fat surrounding the internal organs, which increases the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

+ A decrease in body hair. To assess for hypogonadism, which is in part the clinical basis, the doctor will check for physical signs in men including hair loss particularly in the armpit and genitalia.

+ In the andropausal years the mind becomes less sharp and nimble. The older male becomes less swift in mental calculations and his judgment is not as accurate as before. Memory loss can be accelerating too.


+  He may suffer mood swings, irritability and depression.

It is important to remember that not all of these symptoms need to be present to identify andropause. Also, it is important to remember that symptoms do not all appear to the same degree in all men. Some men may suffer from only one or two of these symptoms and at varying degrees.


In the long term, testosterone deficiency may result in an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and more chronic diseases.


What to do?

 +  Testosterone replacement therapy for andropause may be of help to some men. Treatment goals include restoration of sexual functioning, increased libido, increased sense of well-being, prevention of osteoporosis by optimizing bone density, restoration of muscle strength and improved mental functioning. Biochemically, testosterone replacement should aim not only to reach normal levels of serum testosterone. However, men with a history of prostate cancer or breast cancer should avoid such treatment as the testosterone can make both of these hormonally sensitive cancers grow more rapidly. Other negative effects may include fluid retention, liver toxicity, fertility problem, sleep apnea, tender or breast enlargement.

+  All but one of the hormone levels drop as we age. Cortisone, the stress hormone is the only one that increases. Fortunately, regular exercise can counteract cortisone and stress.

+  Getting older does not have to mean gaining those extra pounds. Instead, work around to keep the weight off and being smart about it. With lesser muscle mass in the fifties, lesser calories are required. Thus, you cannot afford to eat like in your twenties and expect not to put on weight. Keep to a balanced diet of 200 fewer calories a day unless you work out consistently combining aerobic and cardiac exercises. Also watch your diet: no excessive alcohol; avoid cholesterol food, processed food and sugars.

+  The best way is for men to take responsibility and face all the challenges. Most importantly, changing his lifestyle to staying fit, be positive thinking and look at some good anti-aging products to help in reversing the biological clock.


+  Some researches indicate that free form amino acids from soy and rice protein can help to stimulate the production of HGH. Also, they aid in improving immune function, vision and sustain youthfulness.




2.  Prostate Enlargement

Although Asian men have the lowest incident and mortality rates of prostate cancer in the world, the figure is rising rapidly in the past two decades. Singapore sees an increase of 118% from 6.6 to 14.4 per 100,000 person years, whilst Japan rose by 102%.

Prostate Gland

It is part of the male reproductive organ, which is located right in front of the rectum and under the bladder. It secretes a slightly alkaline fluid that carries, nourishes and transports sperm.

The prostate goes through two periods of growth. The first growth happens during early puberty, growing from pea size to walnut size. At mid or late 30s, the prostate cells start to reproduce more rapidly, resulting in prostate gland enlargement or BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperlasia). The enlarged tissues are often compressed to the urethra and partially block urine flow. Besides, the wall of the bladder becomes thicker and irritable. It begins to contract even when it contains small amount of urine causing more frequent urination. Inability to empty the bladder can interfere with sleep, cause recurrent infection or result in kidney damage. About half of the men in their 50s experience varying degree of prostate problem rendering them to more frequent urinating, has a strong urge to urinate, dribbling or a feeling of not being able to empty the bladder fully.

BPH can prolong till later part in life. Half of the male population suffers from some BPH symptoms. Hence it is advisable to include PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test and rectum examination in your routine body checkup.

Recommendation:

+ Taking phytosterois-rich foods such as saw palmetto, pumpkin seed, pygeum and wheat germ to aid men with BPH.
+ Tomato concentrates are rich in antioxidants and contains lycopene with abundant carotenoids present. (note tomato must be boiled to derive this substance). A Harvard research study confirms that lycopene plays a vital role in health of the prostate and promotes healthy urinary system.
+ Scientists also suggest taking soya to prevent prostate cancer and going bald. It is found that the digestion of soya causes a molecule called equol to be produced in the intestine. This substance blocks the functioning of the male hormone DHT, a byproduct of testosterone that encourages prostate growth. This explains why Japanese men who eat more soya rarely have prostate cancer.
+ Vitamin E is also believed to reduce the chance of prostate risk. The best absorbed form of alpha tocopherol is found in foods like sunflower seeds, spinach, almonds and sweet peppers.
+ An interesting finding that men who ejaculate regularly – 13 to 20 times a month is less prone too.

3. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Impotence means that a man’s penis does not get hard enough to maintain an erection in sexual intercourse. The medical term - erectile dysfunction is different from premature ejaculation where ejaculating takes place within a minute after initiation of intercourse.

Causes

1) Vascular (blood vessel) disease – Most men with impotent problem has this defect. The amount of blood flowing to or remains in the penis is limited and thus hinders erection. This can be due to blood vessels being damaged by hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or trauma.

2) Nerve damage (neuropathy) – Nerves must be working normally for a man to get and keep an erection. Nerves can be damaged by diabetes, multiple sclerosis, prostate surgery or damage to the spinal cord.

3) Psychological factors – Psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, guilt or fear can contribute to sexual problems affecting mostly young men. If they do not overcome their embarrassment or “performance anxiety” this physical problem can worsen their relationship problems and affect self-esteem, and could be a sign of underlying health problems.

4) Medications – Many medications cause problems with sexual function, including drugs for high blood pressure, depression, heart disease and prostate cancer.

5) Hormonal problems – Rarely a cause, abnormal levels of certain hormones, such as testosterone, thyroid hormone and a pituitary hormone known as prolactin, can interfere with erections and sex drive.

Remedies for Impotence

a) Ginseng: It has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine as a male sexual tonic as its phytochemicals are believed to increase stamina, lessen fatigue and improve overall well-being. Another study done in the West concluded that an extract from ginseng known as ginsenosides enhances the effects of nitric oxide which helps to relax blood vessels in the penis for greater blood flow, and thus an improved erection.
b) L-Arginine: It is an essential amino acid known to bolster the immune system and increase human growth hormones. With the amount of nitric oxide boosted, blood vessels are dilated to enable an erection.

c) Gingko Biloba: Traditional Chinese medicine has been using it to boost oxygen supply. When more blood penetrates the tiny capillaries in the penis that may be starved off oxygen and nutrients, the blood vessels are able to dilate to produce an erection.
d) Co-enzyme Q10:  This can be used to increase significantly seminal plasma and sperm cells in infertile men with a disorder of sperm motility. It also provides the body with necessary energy and effectively neutralises free radicals in the body to reduce the oxidation damaging the cells, which in turn triggers increased libido and sexual stimulation.
e) Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): It assists in the processing of amino acids, which are responsible for the creation of some hormones (eg. testosterone) and formation of neurotransmitters that affect mood and enhance sexual stimulation.
f) Vitamin B3 (niacin): It increases blood circulation and is involved in the synthesis of sex hormones.

(4) Cancer and Diabetes

Cancer is the second killer disease in Singapore accounting for 25% of all deaths after cardiovascular disease and stroke (36%). Men has higher chance of dying from cancer especially lung cancer (1 out 5) caused by smoking. Carbon monoxide from tobacco smoking can dramatically reduce hemoglobin’s ability to transport oxygen. Vitamin B aids in hemoglobin reproduction can help to recover partial loss.

About 10% of the adult population in Singapore has diabetes. It claims victims predominately over 40 years old. Possible complications of type 2 diabetes include cardiovascular disease, blindness, nerve damage and kidney damage.

Recommendations:

Prevention is more than cure

As our body are filled with cancer cells waiting to explode, taking lots of antioxidants help to suppress their breakouts. Foods and supplements containing Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), C, E and selenium can help to fight free radicals synergistically and offer optimal cell protection. They reduce the amount of free radicals in our body caused by air pollution, chemical substances, exposure to UV radiation, cigarette etc. At the same time, they enhance respiratory functions, improve allergic and asthmatic condition and prevent the onslaught of degenerative diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancers and premature aging of various bodily organs.

Conclusion

Health is not merely the absence of diseases but a lifestyle as well. Being able to at least maintain the level of activity they are used to, both physically and mentally, is one of the key objectives of many men in any age group.

Look for best known alternative to drugs or surgery by taking right foods and supplements as early as possible in your life. They are the best natural medicine for the body.


Other than adopting an appropriate diet, other lifestyle changes like losing weight, regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake and managing stress are crucial for healthy living.

Viva corner

(1) Scientists at VIVA Life Science have specially designed this product VIVA PROSMETT to cater to the need of the men’s urinary system. It is a formulation of multiple botanical and herbal concentrated extract to produce synergistic effects. Ingredients include (as discussed in text above): saw palmetto, pumpkin seeds, stinging nettle root, pygeum bark, soy bean (containing beta sitosterol and soy isoflavones), lycopene from tomato, rice bran powder, wheat germ powder, burdock root powder, carrot, broccoli and kelp. Another ingredient zinc is essential for proper functioning of the immune and endocrine systems. Note that the prostate gland has high amount of zinc and thus a deficiency can cause a significant drop of testosterone levels in the blood.

(2) VIVA AGEGUARD provides free form amino acids that acts as natural human growth hormone (HGH) releaser to enable a youthful level of testosterone to maintain for prevention of muscle mass loss, wrinkles and hair loss. It can also improve vitality, enhance lean muscle mass in the body, improve memory, strengthen heart function and promote youthfulness.

(3) VIVASHIELD with a combination of 4 potent antioxidants to protect against free radical attacks which may cause cancer.


(4)  VIVA LIQUICK GINGKO is well documented to improve the peripheral blood circulation and impotence.

(5)  VIVA B-EASY is a Vitamin B complex that can relieve stress, fatigue as well as prevent anxiety and depression.

Body pH and HEALTH

 

Acidity and alkalinity are measured according to the pH (potential of hydrogen) scale ranging from zero to 14, in which zero is very acidic, 7 is neutral, and 14 is very alkaline. Using water as a barometer with a pH of 7, any substance below this mark is acidic and above is alkaline.

Knowing the distinction between which food is alkaline and which is acidic is determined by the minerals left behind after digestion – termed the ash residue. Alkaline foods contain magnesium, potassium, calcium and sodium, which complement each other and only minute quantities are required in our daily bodily functioning.

Different fluids in the human body generally have a delicate range of acid-alkaline balance to maintain for optimal functioning. The normal pH for urine is about 4.5-8 (acidic environment to eliminate toxins), for saliva 7.0-7.4 and blood is between 7.35 and 7.45. The pH of urine has a wider range based on the acid or alkaline forming potential of foods eaten during the course of the day. First morning urine before any foods are eaten is often considered the most accurate indicator of true urine pH. (that is why you have to fast overnite before a health screening test)

Without exception, all your organs, tissues, bones and joints should also fall into this range. Basically, you came into this world with an alkaline pH and should remain till your last day. However, your body automatically becomes acidic upon death so it can decompose like it is supposed to.

When the pH levels of blood or other key bodily fluids fall out of optimal pH range due to adverse metabolic or respiratory conditions, the human body goes through a variety of adjustments to try to correct the acid or alkaline imbalance. If the body is too alkaline, a condition called alkalosis results. Conversely, an overly acid condition results in acidosis.

Acidosis:


In the modern society, many of us are prone to ACIDOSIS, a condition in which there is too much acid in the body fluids. Although a host of factors like stress, environmental toxins, lack of exercise and smoking can contribute to this condition, the main culprit is our poor dietary habits. We often neglect the need for a balanced diet and consume too much acid-producing foods such as processed food, fast food, refined carbohydrates and dairy products, and too little alkaline foods like fruits and fresh vegetables. Another cause is aging. As we age, our metabolism alters slightly, resulting in a lower calorie requirement. Excess fat accumulates quickly which results in higher acidity in the cells.

Some symptoms: Frequent sighing, insomnia, water retention, gout, arthritis, migraine headaches, abnormally low blood pressure, dry hard stools, foul smelling stools and a burning sensation in the anus, constipation alternates diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, sensitive to vinegar and citrus fruits.

Recommendations: Eat more raw foods (cooking depletes nutrients) comprising fresh fruits and vegetables that contain minerals like magnesium, potassium and calcium. Highly acidic foods that should be avoided are processed foods, foods high in sugar, animal fats and drinks that contain caffeine.

Alkalosis:

Alkalosis is a condition in which the body loses too much acid and becomes alkaline. It is less common than acidosis and produces over-excitability of the nervous system, affecting the peripheral nerves much. The causes can be due to:

• excess vomiting, which causes a loss of electrolytes
• overuse of diuretics
• endocrine imbalance
• a large loss of potassium or sodium in a short amount of time
• antacids
• accidental ingestion of bicarbonate, which can be found in baking soda
• laxatives
• alcohol abuse
• poor diet

Symptoms: Easily excited and heart palpitation, sore muscles, creaking joints, drowsiness, protruding eyes, hypothermia, seizures, allergies, night cramps, asthma, night coughs, indigestion, too rapid blood clotting and thick blood, menstrual problems, hard dry stools, bone spurs.

How main organs are affected:

When your blood starts to become acidic, acidic substances (usually toxins) are deposited into cells to allow the blood to remain slightly alkaline. This causes your cells to become more acidic and toxic, which results in a decrease of their oxygen levels, and harms their DNA and respiratory enzymes.

Overloading of toxins tax on vital organs in the body leading to chronic and degenerative diseases.

+ Acid wastes in your system rob your blood of oxygen, which causes your heart tissue to deteriorate.


+ Far too much toxins choke your liver, thus it is constantly under stressed to flush them out.


+ The pancreas is unable to produce insulin to regular the sugar level.


+ Kidneys are overburdened to clear up huge piles of toxins and wastes.


+ Hard to digest, acid-creating food poses a challenge to the stomach and can result in excess gastric acid produced to facilitate the digestion process. As a result, fewer nutrients are being absorbed, and acid rising up into your throat causing acid reflux, GERD, IBS, hiatal hernia and gastritis.


+ Wastes not clearing up properly through the colon can clog its walls and become a breeding ground for bacteria and disease. In addition, the toxins can be re-absorbed into your bloodstream, make you ill and encourage the development of food sensitivities. The problem can develop into IBS, diverticulosis and chronic constipation on a prolonged basis.


If left untreated, heavy accumulation of wastes poisons the cells and causes their premature die. These dead cells themselves turn into acids which may adapt in that environment to become abnormal cells which may develop into malignant cells having the ability to grow indefinitely and without order termed 'cancer'.
Recommendations: Watch alkaline drugs such as sodium bicarbonate taken for gastritis or peptic ulcers, and other drugs for high cholesterol. Maintaining healthy lifestyle including having more grains and acid-forming foods is crucial for right balancing.


Acidity/alkalinity range of foods

 

Note: Though lemon is acidic to the taste, it leaves off alkaline residues in the body. This is why it is useful in all symptoms of acidosis.

Although lemon juice is very acidic, small amounts mixed with water can have an alkalizing effect when it is digested. This can help to neutralize the acid in your stomach, especially so for those with acid reflux caused by low stomach acid. Even those with peptic ulcers can find relief as its high ascorbic acid content can help to protect the stomach from certain cancers and other damage. However, this relief is temporary and should not be over-relied upon as lemon acidity is corrosive to the stomach lining. Mixing sodium bicarbonate from the pancreas results in its acidity turns alkaline upon reaching the small intestine.

 

Acidity and Cancer

The 1931 Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg discovered that cancer cells cannot survive in a highly oxygenated environment. Alkalinity helps to increase the body’s oxygen level, which is why alkaline foods can be helpful in fighting cancer. When the blood is alkalized, it is able to contain more oxygen, absorbing up to 100 times more than a body with a high acid content.

In other words, oxygen levels in cells decrease in the presence of too much acid. This creates a toxic environment, which can create mutations in the cells, potentially leading to cancer. With a greater degree of alkalinity in the body, these toxins decrease.

Excessive acids present in the diet that are not dispelled fast enough can result in the body storing the toxins in the cells. People with cancer generally have high levels of acid in their system, which makes it essential for them to find balance through eating foods that are alkaline in content. This will bring the body to a healthy pH level of approximately 7.4, which helps to saturate red blood cells with healing and essential oxygen.

Sources: http://nh1.ccone.com/ph-balance.html, Prescription to Natural Healing

VIVA corner

VIVA Life Science provides the solution to blood acidity by offering this great product VIVA Green Barley with all the goodness of vitamins, proteins, phytochemicals, enzymes, minerals in a bottle. By consuming this highly alkaline food, the blood pH can improve and become less acidic. We could then achieve a better health status and continue to enjoy life.

Viva Chloroguard can be supplemented to cleanse up toxins deposited in the cells, including the immune cells. Its iodine content can help to shield radiation exposure.

 

Detoxification for BETTER Health

 

Though we may be feeding our bodies correctly with nourishing foods, full health potential cannot be realised so long as we remain waste dumps for pesticides, pollutants, chemicals and heavy metals like mercury, aluminum, cadmium, arsenic, lead and nickel. This continuous process to permit toxins to be absorbed into the body through food, drinks, air and contact with the skin is unavoidable. Even any daily food intake in the form of fats, proteins and sugars are broken down and used to energize the body leave wastes behind. As a result, a healthy cell can become sick, choked with toxins that prevent wastes from being passed out.

Can toxicity be detected?

The medical community recognizes only acute toxicity, the type that leads to painful, sudden and severe symptoms, including cramping, nausea, vomiting, sweating, headaches, breathing difficulties, convulsions and impaired cognitive, motor and language skills. 

The effect of consumption, inhalation, skin contact and other exposure is clear.  Such frequent occurrences are observed on job sites when workers are exposed to hazardous substances, and to a smaller extent on the home front.

Pesticide, herbicide and chemical fertilizer are usually ingested and can make otherwise healthy people chemically sensitive and environmentally ill.  As this is a gradual process, the symptoms may develop over several years and are often interchangeable with other signs of poor health, thus the culprits are not suspected.

Need to detox

Virtually all chronically sick patients have sustained significant exposure to toxic substances. 

Toxic metals such as aluminum, cadmium, lead, cobalt and arsenic are easily found in unknowing patients. For instance, mercury is planted in anyone who has done amalgam fillings or root canals.  Cocoa and chocolate products have some of the highest levels of lead found in any food item.

Dose, duration, manner of exposure, biochemical individuality, genetic propensity, diet quality and stress levels combine to determine the degree of ill effects.

Babies can be contaminated at birth because mercury and other metals pass through the placenta from intoxicated mothers. The Environmental Working Group reports that blood samples taken from the umbilical blood of newborns show an average of 287 toxins, including mercury, fire retardants, pesticides, and Teflon chemicals. No wonder babies come into this world with compromised digestive and immune systems. Vaccinations containing mercury and aluminum worsen the matter, often sending an already vulnerable child over the edge into autism, ADD and ADHD, life-threatening allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Do a simple test. If you suspect of having any 3 or more symptoms, is time to consider a detox:

+  Having asthma, eczema or sinusitis?
+  Having allergies or are you sensitive to chemicals or pollution?
+  Having wheezing or skin outbreaks frequently?
+  Having digestive problems?
+  Feeling worse after exercise?
+  Experiencing fatigue on and off?

Process of detoxification

For good internal housekeeping, all harmful substances should be eliminated or neutralized using built-in defenses and resources, especially during our sleeping hours. The complex process of detoxification involves the immune system (especially the white blood cells), the lungs, kidneys, colon, liver and the skin (biggest organ in our body).

The ability to cope well goes for a younger and healthier body. Thus, the older or less healthy you are, the poorer is this protective response and the greater possibility of damage occurring to your body.

Liver as detoxifier. In addition to its vital functions in digestion and energy production, the liver acts as a major detoxifier. It combines toxic substances such as metabolic waste products, insecticide residues, drugs, alcohol and other harmful chemicals with substances that are less toxic which are then excreted by the kidneys and colon.  The other detoxifying organs include the lungs, skin, colon, kidney and lymphatic system.  If they do not receive the relevant or adequate nutrients, their functions can be compromised, resulting in build-up of toxic materials which can ruin our health.

If you have been constantly eating all types of fatty food, sugary food and drinks without properly cleansing, a sudden action of accelerated elimination can result in a short bout of headaches, fatigue, body odor, bad breath, diarrhea or mouth ulcers (termed 'healing crisis'). However, you may observe digestion usually improves fast, as do many gland and nerve functions.

How to detox: The best means of removing toxins and wastes from the body is a fast and a ritual monthly practice for most desirable result.  Day-to-day cleansing is preferable for those who believe in good health at all times. Fasting is highly recommended for any illness, as it allows the body the rest it needs to recover.  Acute illnesses, colon disorders, allergies and respiratory illnesses are most responsive to fasting, whilst chronic degenerative diseases are the least responsive.

 

By relieving the body of the work of digesting foods, fasting permits the system to rid itself of toxins and facilitates healing. Possible fasting results -

+  A 3 days’ fast helps to purge toxins and cleanse the blood.
+  A 5 days’ fast begins with the process of healing and rebuilding the immune system.
+  A 10 days’ fast can take care of many health problems before they arise and help to fight off illness, including degenerative diseases.

In a total perspective, by fasting regularly, all the organs are put to rest, and thus help to reverse the aging process and live a longer and healthier life.

What to do?

+  To prepare for the fast, eat only raw vegetables and fruits for two days. This will make the fast less of a shock to the system.

+  Water is essential during detoxification in transporting nutrients and eliminate waste from cells. However, do not fast on water alone. All all-water fast releases toxins too quickly, causing headaches and worse.

-  Dilute pure juices with the water (ratio 3:1)
-  Best fruit lemon.  Avoid tomato and orange juice.
-  Never combine fruit and vegetable juices and drink immediately after preparation.

+  No cooked foods as the size of the stomach and the amount of secreted digestive juices may decrease during fasting.

+  A good green supplement such as green barley, spirulina or chlorella to supply the body with a full range of food state, chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids.

+  Herbal tea can be added for variety.

+  To incorporate fermented drinks that are rich in electrolytes and enzymes to facilitate cleansing. Some of the best functional beverages to include in a fasting cleanse include fermented whey, coconut water kefir and apple cider vinegar. Also include naturally fermented foods that can destroy pathogenic organisms and create die-off effects.

+  For those with chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypoglycemia (use a protein supplement during fasting), fasting more than 3 days should do so only under the supervision of a qualified health professional for close monitoring of glucose level.

+  Pregnant women should never fast.

Health benefits

+  Cleansing helps to release hormone secretions that stimulate immune response and encourage a disease preventing environment. In fact, after a detoxification process you should see digestion usually improves right away as accumulated waste and fermenting bacteria are cleansed of.

+  Excess mucus and congestion are removed as the two filtering organs namely liver and kidneys are purified, resulting in a lowering of serum fats that thins the blood, tissue oxygenation is increased and white blood cells are moved more efficiently.

+  Even the stomach size can be reduced for those with tummies and desire to lose weight.  The energy usually used for digestion is redirected to immune function, cell growth and eliminatory processes.

+  Many glands and nerve functions are restored as the body starts to rebalance itself. Energy levels (physical and psychological) will rise. Focus, mental clarity and creativity begin to expand, impossible under chemical overload.

In general, most people enjoy the good feeling of lighter weight and boosted energy after the detoxification process. Dependency of habit forming substances like sugar, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol or drugs is reduced. They tend to kick bad habits and lead a healthy lifestyle thereafter.

Temporary setback/healing crisis

It is not uncommon for individuals starting a program of natural healing to suffer from detoxification reactions commonly known as healing crisis whereby toxins are being expelled into the different systems of the body.

A healing crisis is a common experience centered on the basis that you become worse before you feel better.

-  The natural process begins with the cells releasing toxins (eg. pesticides and drugs) into the blood and lymphatic circulation but the elimination organs (i.e. skin, lungs, liver, kidneys, bladder & GI tract) are not able to cope and eliminate them fast enough and thus the toxins remain in circulation.

-  Another common cause of the healing crisis has to do with the dying off of certain pathogenic organisms in the body such as Candida yeast infections, viruses and bacteria. It triggers off the release of stored endotoxins in the microbes which enter circulation and thus interfere with normalized function. A massive scale involving more pathogens pose a temporary health hazard for some individuals. Extreme actions are usually felt by people who are already suffering from major illnesses or are quickly building disease processes.

Most people base their health on how they are feeling and think that the natural health program is hurting them when they go through a healing crisis. The longer toxins or pathogenic organisms remain in the body, the worse their health will be and the faster they will develop disease. Eliminating such toxins from the body is a vital part of allowing the repair of damaged cells and tissue. After undergoing the cleansing process, the body should be healthier and able to eliminate toxins effectively. Symptoms usually reduce or are eliminated within two to three days but on rare occasions can last a few weeks.

The most common symptoms associated with a healing crisis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, night sweats, hot/cold flashes, increased blood pressure, headaches, joint pain and fatigue.

Do not be discouraged by a temporary discomfort and abandon your detoxification program. 

Conclusion 

Unless parents also detoxify themselves before conception, this trend will not reverse, and we will continue to see the degeneration of children’s health. Going forward, the gene inheritance factor gets weaker and humans can face extinction if a terrible epidemic were to break out worldwide.

Good nutrition is of prime importance because a deficiency of vital minerals will lead to their replacement by toxic metals in enzyme binding sites. Basically, minerals act as coenzymes, enabling the body to perform its functions, including energy production, growth and healing. 

For instance, if the body lacks nutrients like calcium, potassium and other minerals in the diet, the external elements structured similarly are being absorbed into the cells by substitution. If the cells obtain all nutrients they need from your diet, such radioactive substitutes become redundant and are likely to be discarded from the body.

The following examples are substitutes:

+  Lead for calcium

+  Cadmium for zinc

+  Aluminum and nickel for magnesium and manganese.

Always consider detoxifying when you have a health problem. Even for those who are relatively healthy should make it a daily ritual to achieve optimal health and prevention of disease.

VIVA Corner

Here are recommended VIVA products that are essential to detoxify, balance, nourish and protect the body in building a solid foundation for a stronger and healthier you.

VIVA Chloroguard with 4 types of seaweed chlorophyll can boost energy levels with a host of nutrients and detoxifies cells internally.


VIVA Green Barley is beneficial for general cleansing outside the perimeters of the cells. It can bind to toxins and prevent contamination to the cells. The flushed out waste materials can then be removed from the blood and excrete via urination.

VIVA Omega3 helps to reduce blood viscosity and thus improve blood circulation and reduce any inflammation.  Waste materials can be excreted faster via urination.


VIVA Dailyguard provides the body’s daily needs for nutrients, general health maintenance and disease prevention.  It can also strengthen the lymphatic system for greater effectiveness in transporting waste materials from all parts of the body to the end organs such as liver, kidneys, colon, skin and lungs for elimination.

VIVA Floraguard repopulates  the friendly bacteria population to prevent colonization of bad bacteria in the colon as it is a temporary storage of waste products.

VIVA Cellpex contains milk thistle which can neutralize and convert toxins into a water-soluble form for excretion.

GUARD your Immunity (I)

  

IMPORTANCE

In recent times, new communicable diseases surfaced, resulting in widespread illnesses and in the worst scenario - death. Some new strains of pathogens have found their way to a faraway destination with the help of infected travelers. The risk is elevated when the spread occurs in a densely populated city.

The immune system is the body’s first line of defence against infectious agents, such as chemicals, drugs, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, as well as engineering the healing process. Coated on them are large molecules or antigens the immune cells should be able to spot and destroy. At the front line are our skin, stomach acid and mucus - assisted by the lymph nodes and other components of the immune system which help to keep the antigens at bay. A well-functioning immune system is capable of distinguishing between normal body cells and foreign bodies/abnormal cells, and thus destroying cancer cells as and when they are spotted.


WEAKENING SIGNS

Decades of over-reliance on antibiotics puts a strain on the immune system whilst the newly transformed super microbes are harder to eradicate and thus spread and infect easily.

Weakening of the immune system results in increased susceptibility to virtually every type of illness. Some common signs of impaired immune function include fatigue, listlessness, repeated infections, inflammation, allergic reactions, slow wound healing, chronic diarrhea and manifestation of an overgrowth of some normally present organism as in oral thrush, systemic candidasis or vaginal yeast infections.

COMPOSITION

The immune system comprises specialized tissues, organs, cells and bio-chemicals with the skin and mucous membrane, of which the prominent ones involved are white blood cells, bone marrow, the lymphatic vessels and organs, specialised cells found in various body tissues and organs, specialised substances called serum factors found in the blood.

In the spongy tissue of the bone lies the red marrow where immature stem cells are produced. They have the capacity of turning into different types of cells - white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and plasma.

Proper functioning of immune system

At birth, the immune system is not functional yet. The bone plays catch-up in a child's formative years by producing only immune cells in the red marrow, forgoing the yellow marrow (for bone, cartilage and fat tissue which explains why children below 5 years old are vulnerable to leukemia (see next para).

A drop of blood can contain anywhere from 7,000 to 25,000 white blood cells at a time.
Although white blood cells account for only about 1% of our blood, their impact is significant as they are essential for good health and protect us against illness and disease. Produced from stem cells inside the bone marrow, some of them have a short lifespan of 1-3 days. When leukemia strikes, overproduction of white blood cells which are often partially developed, crowd out the space for white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. Majority of kids with leukemia developed in the lymphatic tissue and can be treated successfully with drugs and radiation. On the other hand, majority of adults with leukemia developed in the bone marrow and can undergo intensive therapy to bring abut remissions averaging 12-18 months if detected early. Chronic infection is not so lucky as treatment has not shown to improve survival significantly. Also, they are prone to hemorrhage and infection to cause fatal death.

Low count of WBCs can happen for a number of reasons eg. when an invader is destroying the cells more quickly than the body can replenish them or when the bone marrow stops making enough white blood cells to keep you healthy and vulnerable to any illness or infection. Under normal circumstances, higher-than-normal white blood cell count usually indicates some type of bacterial/viral infection as more are produced to destroy an enemy. 


The initial response to an antigen is inflammation eg. when cold virus is inhaled, the nasal passage becomes inflamed and releases histamine. The swelling also helps to contain the antigen from spreading to other body tissues. Other immune cells can then response to aid in destroying the antigens or damaged cells. The two types of cells most actively involved are:

1.  Antibody mediated immunity – B-cells originate from bone marrow and residing primarily in outer cortex of lymph nodes. The B-cells produce antibodies which either damage the invasive cells or alert the white blood cells to attack. A blueprint of the invader is stored to initiate the production of antibodies for subsequent exposure. They become plasma cells and stand guard in the lymph nodes awaiting further action.

2.  Cell-mediated immunity – T-cells produced by the thymus gland (located behind the top of the breastbone) and residing primarily in inner area of lymph nodes, blood and immune organs. All T cells are trained to recognise what is “self” to be tolerated and those “non-self” to be destroyed, Also, each T-cell is trained to identify a specific type of antigen that penetrate cells to reproduce and interfere with cell function. Those with faulty programming (like unable to differentiate “self” and “non-self”) are eliminated. With increasing age, the T cells decrease in numbers and potency.

Other active immune cells include:


*The most abundant WBC - neutrophil also known as the "immediate response" cell, accounts for 55-70% of the total white blood cell count. 


*  Natural killer cells patrol the body and mark cancer or viral infected cells. Once identified, the NK cells attack in packs by releasing substances that destroy the invader in minutes. However, as some potent viruses are capable of changing forms, this capability can be rendered useless.


*  Scavenger cells known as monocytes and macrophages which engulf foreign particles as well as expiring blood cells, including the red ones.

Working hand in hand with the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system operates at the cellular level (inside and outside the cells) by cleansing and draining fluids, removing toxins, waste products and other debris. Fluids collected are drained into the capillaries of the lymphatic system known as lymph before filtering through the lymph nodes. Whilst most of the nymph nodes are smaller in size widely distributed throughout the body, the spleen, thymus and tonsils are the enlarged ones.


OUT OF BALANCE

(1)  Over-activity of immunity leads to allergies and autoimmune diseases -

+  An autoimmune disease is one in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include arthritis, lupus and possibly inflammatory bowel disease. They may be caused by genetic factor, infections and injuries. Stress and emotional factors also seem to contribute to a certain extent.

Supporting the immune system through diet and lifestyle is vitally important in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

+  An allergy is an inappropriate response or trigger by the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless. There are many causes of allergy - the most common being airborne particles such as mold, dust and pollen, certain foods, chemicals and drugs causing many disorders, including asthma and hay fever.

Supporting the immune system is instrumental in the treatment of allergic disorders.

(2)  Under-activity increases the risk of infections -

Poor diet, medications, pollution, toxic chemicals, stress levels and emotional state are external factors that can work adversely on the immune system.  For instance, overuse of antibiotics is prevalent today and may weaken the immune system in dealing with infectious agents. Often medications like steroids are prescribed for long periods in the treatment of disorders such as arthritis and asthma that can tax on the immunity gradually.


CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

The best way to keep the immune system working well is to stay in good general health. It is important not to allow infections to persist as this puts a strain on the immune system.

+  Improving lymphatic circulation through prolonged exercise, massage and herbal remedies help to boost the immunity. Studies conducted had shown that moderate to intense exercise for 2 hours or more can help to boost circulating phagocytes and lymphocytes, involving the bone marrow, spleen, pulmonary and systemic blood vessels releasing more white blood cells. There are several herbs which have powerful immune-enhancing effects eg. echinacea, astragalus, goldenseal, licorice, ginseng, garlic, cat’s claw and mushrooms such as shiitake, reishi and maitake.

+  Adopting the right diet approach is a pre-requisite to proper health status.  Nutrition plays a pivotal role in the functioning of the immune system and a poor diet increases the susceptibility to infection and exacerbate autoimmune diseases.  Also, infections increase the demand for nutrients to help fight infection and repair the damage to tissues.  Note that a single nutrient deficiency can compromise the immune system. However, any defect can usually be reversed after 2 weeks of correct nutrient therapy.


A healthy diet should comprise:

-  High carbohydrate diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and fiber.

-  Minimal fat derived from polyunsaturated vegetable oils and related products as they readily form free radicals that damage immune cells. One type, the essential fatty acid is helpful in treating cancer and autoimmune disorders.

-  High protein diets are damaging as residues of protein metabolism can cause irritation, especially in people prone to allergy and autoimmunity. Foods of animal origin (including dairy products) frequently contain residues of antibiotics and steroid hormones that irritate and weaken the immunity system.

-  The effectiveness of the immune system declines with age and older people are naturally more susceptible to infection than younger people and are at greater risk of low intake of several vitamins and minerals, which are vital in maintaining optimal immune function as they act to prevent free radical damage to immune cells and to the thymus gland, responsible for ensuring optimal immune function. Supplementing the elderly with single nutrients or mixtures of vitamins and minerals at levels that exceed the RDAs significantly should see good improvement.

1.  Vitamin A is known to stimulate and enhance many immune functions, including antibody response and the activity of various white blood cells such as T helper cells and phagocytes. This immune-enhancing function promotes healing of infected tissues and increases resistance to infection. The body’s store of vitamin A may be depleted from bouts of acute infection eg. respiratory attacks. Severe shortage can result in death and susceptibility to infection and diarrhea for children and HIV-positive patients.

2.  Beta-carotene can assist in increasing the numbers of immune cells, including the natural killer cells.  It protects macrophages, the white blood cells which engulf and destroy foreign substances. It also facilitates communication between immune cells and makes the stimulatory action of interferon on the immune system more powerful.

3.  Vitamin C is critical to immune function as it is involved in antibody production, and function and activity of white blood cells. Other functions include the production of interferon, an antiviral and anticancer substance.  It is commonly used to reduce the duration of the common cold and the severity of symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and sniffling. Severely ill elderly patients admitted to hospital with acute respiratory infections can benefit much from it too.

4.  Vitamin E protects the thymus gland and circulating white blood cells from damage, especially during times of oxidative stress and chronic viral illness. More antibodies are produced when used it against hepatitis B and tetanus infection.

5.  Selenium is part of the antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase, known to protect white blood cells from free radical damage. It also appears to increase antibody production, and accelerate the production of white blood cells and enhance their effectiveness in attacking and destroying harmful micro-organisms.

6.  B Vitamins can affect the quality and quantity of antibodies and the number of white blood cells. An impaired antibody response causes increased susceptibility to infection, especially amongst the older people. Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system by affecting functions such as cell multiplication and antibody production.

7.  Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of the immune system. It has several functions, including effects on white blood cells known as monocytes and lymphocytes, and seems to suppress some immune functions. Many researchers are investigating the possibility of using vitamin D and related compounds to treat autoimmune disorders and to suppress rejection of transplanted organs.

8.  Copper is important in developing resistance to infection. A deficiency can lead to lowered resistance to infection as white blood cell activity and cellular immune responses are reduced. The ratio of zinc to copper may also affect immune system effectiveness. Susceptibility to disease seems to increase when copper intake is high and zinc intake is low.

9.  Iron is involved in the maintenance of a healthy immune system and the immune response can be impaired in iron-deficient people suffering from chronic yeast infections and herpes infections. Certain types of immune cells rely on iron to generate the oxidative reactions to rid bacteria and other pathogens. When iron levels are low, these cells cannot function properly. However, overloading of iron can be bad as well with reduced ability to eliminate bacterial growths and more free radicals generated that damage the immune system.

10.  Zinc deficiency results in activity of the thymus gland, thus a decrease in the numbers of several types of T cells, natural killer cells and other components of the immune response. This leads to increased susceptibility to infection and wound-healing time. Zinc supplements have also been shown to boost levels of interferon vital to fight bacterial and viral infection.


In general, nutrients taken should:


1.  Increase antibody production and improve antibody response (Vitamin A, B, C, selenium, copper, zinc, germanium)
2.  Increase the count of immune cells (Vitamin B, beta-carotene, selenium, copper, zinc)
3.  Improve communication between immune cells (beta-carotene)
4.  Strengthen/produce/adjust interferon (Vitamin C, beta-carotene, germanium)
5.  Protect against free radical damage (Vitamin E, C, beta-carotene,  selenium)


CONCLUSION

The immune system can function well if properly cared for.  Even the aging process may be more closely related to the functioning of the immune system than to the passage of time.

Getting the right nutrients, providing the right environment and avoidance of causative agents that compromise its defensive abilities eg. antibiotics, drugs, pesticides, additives, pollution, stress.


Remember, as with all body systems, immune balance is the key and IMMUNITY is HEALTH.

VIVA corner

+  VIVA Green Barley contains abundant antioxidants, fibers, minerals and protein, essential for proper functioning of the immune system which include higher count of immune cells and improve communication between them. Vivashield, with its winning combination of potent antioxidants can eliminate free radicals effectively. Its Vitamin A and E contents are anti-infection whilst Vitamin C is essential for the formation of adrenal hormones and the production of white blood cells, including antibodies and initiate proper response.

+  VIVA Omega3 to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. VIVA Germanium helps to produce the right interferon so the immune system gets the correct signal fast to attack intruders.