The Best Ways To Prevent This Common Killer?

By Kevin DiDonato MS, CSCS, CES
Every 45 seconds, someone has one.

It is the #1 leading cause of disability in the US.

160,000 people die from this each year, making it third behind heart disease and cancer.

What is it?

Stroke.

If you take the right steps, you may reduce your risk factor for having a stroke.

And women, you are more at risk than you think!

Let me explain…

What Is A Stroke?

There are two different types of strokes.

One is caused by plaque breaking off in your brain or other areas of your body.

This plaque then travels to your brain, where it cuts off the blood supply.

Lack of blood supply may result in the death of your brain cells.

The other type of stroke occurs when the vessels in your brain are weak or they rupture.

This causes blood to leach into your brain, causing damage.

Both types may lead to permanent disability, with paralysis primarily occurring on one side of your body.

Free Radicals and Stroke

Free radicals do a number on the cells in your body.

They create an environment where the free radicals may damage vessels, causing them to stiffen.

This may cause your vessels to not function optimally, resulting in your blood having a harder time moving through your body.

Free radicals may also cause inflammation.

And inflammation may be the beginning to certain disease processes.

One disease caused by inflammation may be strokes and cardiovascular disease.

But you may be able to reduce your risk factors.

Antioxidants

Antioxidant-rich foods may reduce your risk factors for developing a stroke.

And this may happen with or without previous cardiovascular disease.

A study released recently, showed women who ate more fruits and vegetables, and drank more tea decreased their risk for having a stroke.

Powerful free radical fighters are found in fruits and vegetables.

Antioxidants, which are nutrients, may trap free radicals in their structure.

As a review…

Free radicals are unstable molecules.

They spend their time searching out stable molecules so they can steal one of their electrons.

This stealing enables the free radical to stabilize itself.

However, by stealing one electron from a balanced molecule makes that molecule unstable.

It then repeats the process.

When free radicals run into antioxidants, it steals a molecule to stabilize itself.

However, antioxidants maintain stability even when the free radical steals an electron.

Vitamins C, E, carotenoids, and flavonoids may all be able to neutralize free radicals, therefore reducing inflammation.

The Research

Researchers followed 31,035 women over the course of the study.

Women with the highest total antioxidant capacity (TAC) had a 17% less likely chance to have a stroke.

Women who ate more vegetables REDUCED their
risk of having a stroke

And if you had heart issues in the past…

Women who had heart issues in the past, reduced their risk of having a stroke from 46% to 57%.

Women at the highest end of TAC showed DRAMATIC decrease in risk

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are powerful fighters against free radicals and their associated damage.

Some of the leading antioxidants are Carotenoids.

Natural health enthusiasts have focused for years on beta-carotene, a carotenoid found naturally in fish oil, carrots and other sources. Other carotenoids included are betacarotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, phytoene, phytofluene and astaxanthin.  Many members of the carotenoid family such as lutein and lycopene have been shown to have a positive influence on health.

Although individual carotenoids offer distinctive health benefits, their synergistic effects may increase their potency and range of benefits.  These include powerful free-radical quenching ability.
Nature's Sunshine has created a special blend of carotenoids mimicking the ratios in which they are found in body tissues.
Astaxanthin is a form of algae which many different marine animals eat.

This powerful antioxidant is able to bind to cell membranes and trap the free radicals in its unique structure.

Once trapped it transports it to the surface of your cell for other antioxidants, like Vitamin C, to destroy it.

What Is Your Next Step?

Having a stroke may lead to a lifetime of problems.

As the leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death, strokes must be dealt with seriously.

Increasing antioxidant-rich foods into your diet may reduce your risk for developing a stroke.

There may be a some new fighters on the scene in the form of Carotanoid Blend and Zambroza.


Zambroza is a unique and powerful blend of juices that are naturally rich in vitamin C - a powerful antioxidant.  Not only will you feel revitalised but these antioxidants have a powerful effect on the health of the skin helping you to look great too. This is Nature’s Sunshine’s top selling product worldwide – a great tasting, synergistic blend that helps to increase vital energy and replenish the body.
BENEFITS OF ZAMBROZA

• Supply powerful nutrients that give the body energy and vitality
• Maintain a healthy immune system
• Neutralise free radicals throughout the body

RICH IN POLYPHENOLS AND FLAVONOIDS

• Nature’s Sunshine has harvested the most healthful fruits and natural extracts from around the world and combined them into this unique delicious, nutritious juice that has been specially formulated to neutralise excess free radicals. 
• This unique juice blend not only tastes great but gives your body what it needs to enjoy maximum health and long lasting vitality - not only will you feel revitalised but these antioxidants have a powerful effect on the health of the skin helping you to look great too.
• Potency of antioxidants is measured by their ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity), which indicates their ability to neutralise and scavenge free radicals.  When tested by Brunswick Laboratories the results were astounding with Zambroza’s scoring more than twice that of the nearest competitor, demonstrating its superior protective properties.
• Rich in Polyphenols and Flavonoids Zambroza is proven to give unparalleled antioxidant protection.

A diet full of fruits and vegetables, and drinking tea may increase your antioxidant levels.

This may help reduce your risk for having a stroke.


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Friday. End of a work week. And most probably the end of your training week.  A good time to have a nice long stretch at the end of your session.  

 

Do Real Men Drink Wine?

Yes they do!  Manly men drink wine.
No, i don't mean men from the North Shore of Sydney, I mean men with lots of testosterone. 
Check out this article By Kevin DiDonato MS, CSCS,  CES
Dear Men and the Women who LOVE them:

There is a very potent nutrient in wine which has very important qualities that you NEED to know about!

This might SURPRISE, or even SHOCK you.

Wine has been known for hundreds, if not thousands, of years as a way to reduce stress.   In the last 50 years or so, wine has been shown to hold powerful antioxidants which may reduce oxidative stress and improve cardiovascular health.

This powerful nutrient is found in the skin and stems of wine-producing grapes.

What could this nutrient that helps improve health and raise testosterone levels be?

Why it is Resveratrol!

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a polyphenol which has tremendous benefits on the cardiovascular and circulatory system in the body.  It can also increase the health of blood vessels, aid in immune function and protect against from oxidative stress.

But that’s not all!

Trans-resveratrol, the most active form of resveratrol, can also increase testosterone levels and sperm production in men.

The research is young and evolving, but the consensus is resveratrol can give men a swelling boost of self-confidence.

We all need a little more confidence.  Who would have thought we could find that confidence in a glass of wine or grape juice!

Most is not all wine is made from grapes, which has high levels of resveratrol.

But not just wine!   Grapes and grape juice can also hold the same capabilities as wine!

Grape juice can also hold the key to increasing testosterone levels.

Whichever form you use, high levels of resveratrol can increase testosterone and to do it NATURALLY!

Scientific Proof!

In fact research done by Juan et al. demonstrated the potency of resveratrol on mice and testosterone.  Their research confirms that ingestion of resveratrol can have lasting effects on testosterone, specifically targeting the male reproductive organs.

Ingesting just 20 mgs of resveratrol for 90 days significantly increased tubular density of the testes in mice.  This significantly increased sperm counts in the mice.  And the sperm quality did not suffer.

Increased sperm count and improved sperm quality could make for a more fertile man!

Here’s the most interesting part: they found resveratrol had an effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, which controls the male reproductive organs.

To show how beneficial resveratrol is on testosterone, let us take a look at research done by Shin et al.

Their research subjects were a step up from mice- rabbits.

Most of the rabbits they used were impotent and were unable to get an erection, let alone keep one.  The researchers fed the rabbits 50 mg of resveratrol for 28 days and came to some SHOCKING conclusions.

After ingestion, the rabbits were able to get an erection!

They concluded due to a relaxation of the corpus cavernosum, it allowed for more blood flow into the region, resulting in erections.

In fact, they noticed a 56.8% increase in circulating testosterone, a 15.8% increase in sperm count and a 23.3% increase in sperm mobility.

Resveratrol found in grapes and wine can NATURALLY increase testosterone and how YOUR sperm are produced and swim!

More circulating testosterone means more testosterone available for muscle building!

Naturally, the aging process leads to reduced testosterone.  This results in loss of lean mass, weakening of bones and increased risk for heart disease and health related complications.

Toxic Damage

But not just age can lower testosterone levels.  The environment also plays a role in your sexual reproduction health.

Exposure to toxins can decrease function of specialized cells in the body.  Those specialized cells are responsible for production and release of testosterone from your testes.

Researchers Jiang et al. were able to create mice with damaged testes, just to prove how powerful resveratrol can be on damaged testicular function.

The mice testes were rendered useless by chemical methods.  Then they were given 20-40mg of resveratrol depending on the group.   They found that ingestion of resveratrol reversed the damage to the testes leading to increased function.

The researchers noticed the mice regained body weight and testicular weight.   The damaged testes, showed dramatic improvements in the damaged tissue, some even improved close to normal.

What Else Can Be Said About Resveratol

Resveratrol, found in grapes, grape juice and wine, can help increase testosterone by stimulating the hypothalamic-pituitary axis in the brain, which is responsible for normal hormone production.

The high antioxidant activity of reservatrol from grapes possesses ant- inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and reverse damage from oxidative stress.

By including grapes, grape juice and moderate intake of wine can increase the body’s natural defenses which might increase testosterone production.  This is not the only natural way to increase testosterone levels, but should be included into a healthy diet.




Resveratrol is also very good for the heart and circulatory system, partially because of its antioxidant properties. That is why it is found in Nature's Sunshine HE Artichoke Combination.
This Premier combination of policosanol, phytosterol (plant sterols), inositol nicotinate (a form of niacin), resveratrol and Artichoke powder is formulated for the heart and the circulatory system.

11 Reasons You Should Detox & 12 Ways to Make it a Habit

March 11 2013 | Cleansing/Detox | Digestive Health | Intestinal System
Death begins in the colon." Different sources attribute this quote to The Royal Society of Medicine of Great Britain, Dr. Bernard Jensen and to Elie Metchnikoff, a Russian Nobel Prize-winning biologist.
No matter who said or penned it first, it seems sensible that the organ that houses the body’s waste and toxins for elimination is the same place where adverse health conditions would originate, and, consequently, health should flourish when proper care of this organ is given.

Cleansing

Most of us wash our hands many times a day to remove dirt, food residue and potential bacteria. We soap and scrub our bodies regularly to remove dead skin cells, sweat, bacteria and dirt. It only makes sense to clean the inside of our bodies periodically to help remove unprocessed food material, fiber, environmental pollutants and other debris, and to expel these same items that may be stashed in cells throughout the body. This can be achieved using herbs and nutrients that strengthen the body’s regular cleansing processes and help remove or neutralize toxins. Go here to see a list of Nature's Sunshine cleanses and detox products.

Why Cleanse?

Just as cleaning your body’s exterior has many benefits (fresher looking skin, removing bacteria, improving your scent), cleansing and detoxifying the body on a consistent basis offers many health benefits. These include:

• Helps remove waste/debris and toxic chemicals (preservatives, artificial colors, pesticides, herbicides, etc.) from the colon and other body cells:
• Improves digestion (removal of putrid material associated with gas, body odor, etc.)
• Helps tune up the intestinal system, which has a tendency to get sluggish without proper fiber and water
• Typically increases energy levels and promotes a feeling of well-being
• May increase nutrient absorption
• May increase efficiency of body systems and functions

How Toxic is Your Little Corner of the World?

You don’t have to live in a concrete metropolis to be surrounded by pollutants. Consider these sources of toxic chemicals and fumes, and steer clear where you can.

• Household products, including cleansers, bleaches, ammonia cleaners, and “air fresheners” that contain powerful chemicals. 
• Personal care products often contain unsafe compounds. These include some lotions, make-up, nail polish, shampoo, deodorant, mouthwash, hair spray, etc.
  [Nature's Sunshine do a line of Personal Care products that are all natural]
• Your lawn. Putting pesticides or herbicides on your lawn can make it healthier and nicer-looking. But the treatments that kill bugs and weeds can harm your cells too. 
• Your work environment. This can include fumes from gasoline, diesel fuel, paint, thinners, industrial cleaners and such, along with seemingly harmless gases from new carpeting, furniture, etc. 
• Xenoestrogens. These chemicals mimic estrogen in the body and can throw hormone levels out of balance. They are found in plastic packaging, Styrofoam, some cleaning products and lawn treatments, cosmetics, meat, etc.

To Maintain a Toxin-Free Body, Try to Avoid These:

• Artificial chemicals, including colorings, flavorings and preservatives 
• Medicines such as hormones, acid blockers and antibiotics 
• Polluted environments (air, water, strong chemicals and fumes, etc.)

Did You Know? During active weight loss is an ideal time to cleanse and detoxify. As your body burns up fat, it releases more stored toxins, which need to be removed before they get back into your bloodstream.

The Do's and Dont's of "Detox" Eating

Research shows that certain foods, nutrients and habits can greatly aid the body’s normal detoxification processes. Consider adding the following to your grocery/supplement list and start some new, clean-eating habits.

• Fresh vegetables, including broccoli, cabbage, kale, onions, garlic, tomatoes, celery, cilantro, artichokes and olives
   
• Fresh fruits, including pomegranate, papaya, berries, grapes, watermelon and cherries 
• Nuts and legumes 
• Whole grains (plenty of fiber in general) 
• Lean meats and eggs 
• Herbs and spices, including dandelion, burdock, green tea, rosemary, grape seeds, turmeric, licorice root, fenugreek, slippery elm and kelp. Note: mucilaginous herbs may help carry toxins out of the body.
  
• Probiotics. When waste sits in the colon too long, levels of bad bacteria can escalate. Bacteria continue to work on waste matter, creating toxins that may leak through the colon wall and into the bloodstream. Probiotics (friendly bacteria) help rebalance ratios of good bacteria to bad in the colon. They also support digestion and the assimilation of some minerals.
  
• Other nutrients: aloe, antioxidants and B vitamins&
  
• Plenty of water 

Cleansing/detoxifying your body two to four times a year should spell excellent news for your intestinal system and promote good health, energy and focus. Show your colon some love, and it will love you right back.

Sources: Detoxification 101 by Dr. Hugo Rodier, Sunshine Horizons, Jan. 2008. The Textbook of Functional Medicine 2005, 2006, The Institute for Functional Medicine

Healthy Starter Programme

This highly effective cleanse is designed to be taken alongside a normal healthy diet. Results will be enhanced if you omit red meat, caffeine and alcohol from your diet during the programme. Drink pleny of water whilst using the programme. The Healthy Starter Programme includes;                 

HEALTHY STARTER PACK+
A powerful and effective ten day course of five cleansing herbal products which collectively help cleanse the whole body of cellular waste.

LIQUID CHLOROPHYLL
A great tasting ‘minty drink’ you  can  enjoy throughout the day. Add Liquid Chlorophyll to water for a great tasting drink that leaves the breath minty fresh, and is a valued addition to your cleanse programme.

PROBIOTIC ELEVEN
A high potency, multi strain probiotic supplement which provides almost 12 billion bacteria per serving. The eleven strains of bacteria in Probiotic Eleven ensure you replenish your gut with a variety of beneficial flora, and each capsule contains a built-in prebiotic to nourish and spread the bacteria throughout the gut.

High Intensity Resistance Training Increases Fat Burning At Rest Even Without Dieting

Performing High-Intensity Interval Resistance Training (HIRT) can increase the amount of fat you burn when not exercising or dieting.  It has been known for ages that performing hypertrophy style (8-12 reps) or circuit training with short rest interval improves your body composition by increasing or maintaining your muscle mass whilst burning fat stores, the holy grail, however you may be better off increasing the intensity of your workout even further.
A recent study from Italy tested the acute effects of HIRT vs. traditional resistance training (TT) on resting energy expenditure and amount of fat burnt for 22 hours post-exercise.  Seventeen trained males carried out HIRT and TT protocols. The HIRT technique consists of using a weigh that the subjects could lift a maximum of 6 repetitions, 20 seconds rest, then as many as possible (usually 2/3 repetitions), 20 secs rest, then as many as possible again.  This counted as one set and the subjects performed two or three sets, with two to three minutes rest between sets.  The subject performed one leg exercise, one chest exercise and one back exercise for a total of 7 sets. The training session lasted approximately 32 minutes (including the warm up period).  The TT technique consisted of eight exercises of 4 sets of 8 – 12 repetitions with one/two minutes rest with a total amount of 32 sets.  This training session lasted approximately62 minutes (including the warm up period).

The researchers measured resting energy expenditure and respiratory ratio (which predicts energy source) for22 hours after the training session. They found that HIRT showed a greater significant increase energy burnt after the session and that more fat was used as an energy source.
This study suggests that shorter HIRT sessions may increase the amount of energy you burn afterwards and the amount of fat used as that energy source.
The shorter exercise time commitment may help to reduce one major barrier site to not being able to exercise, having enough time.

Reference:
Paoli et al (2012). High-Intensity Interval Resistance Training (HIRT) influences resting energy expenditure and respiratory ratio in non-dieting individuals. Journal of Translational Medicine.10:237

Jesus! If he ran too fast, he'd probably take off with those lats #swole

 

Believe in yourself