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Metabolic Gateways: CBS Gene Mutations & Glutathione

Sat, 22 Dec 2012 00:49:48 -0800

It is important to address that the information regarding CBS pathway activity is still very new,  and not everything is well known or understood with regards to what is actually taking place in individuals with said gene mutations, biochemically speaking.  Time, further research and empirical observations are needed in order to gauge the situation more fully.

CBS (cystathionine beta synthase) is a gene that converts homocysteine into cystathionine.  The CBS pathway is the gateway into a number of essential biochemical processes.  The biochemical pathways that follow and are linked to CBS are Transsulfuration and Glutathionine Synthesis.   It is essential to address that Glutathione (GSH) is among the most important endogenously-produced antioxidants in every cell of the body. Glutathione activity in cells is critical for normal detoxification and defense mechanisms in every cell.

In the CBS pathway, the sulfur amino acids are removed, if they are in excess. However, under certain circumstances, it appears that abnormalities can ensue, causing an excessive pooling of sulfur groups.

As a result of normal cystathionine reactions, ammonia is generated, glutathione gets made, hydrogen sulfides are converted into sulfites and then into sulfates.

Many scientific peer reviews have focused on Decreased CBS pathway activity. The primary factors that may result, in these regards are hyperhomocysteinemia and the genetic condition, homocystinuria. Elevated levels of homocysteine are implicated in both cancer and cardiovascular disease.  In these regards, one mechanism that may exist for lowering elevated levels of homocysteine in some individuals is taking supplemental NAC (n-acetyl cysteine). NAC is the precursor of glutathione.

However, based upon recent, empirical observations by numerous clinicians and researchers, another scenario has emerged: that certain individuals are predisposed towards  ELEVATED, or "up-regulated" CBS pathway activity.   In our world of biological dualism, we can all appreciate that, as Schenker, DC aptly points out: "all physiological systems are maintained through a negative feedback mechanism that operates in a dualistic manner. Dualistic means that for every normal condition, there are 2 abnormals-abnormally high and abnormally low."

The old adage of 'one person's medicine is another person's poison', is applicable in regards to CBS pathway activity.

Elevations in CBS pathway activity may be more likely to occur in individuals who are ++, or +/- in the following genetic mutations:

CBS C699T
CBS A360A
CBS N212N

Additionally, clinical observations have been made indicating that even without a CBS mutation, there may still be elevated CBS/transsulfuration activity.  This may be true of individuals with BHMT "down-regulations", specifically in individuals who are ++ or +/- the following mutations:

BHMT 1
BHMT 2
BHMT 4
BHMT 8

Based upon recent observations, CBS pathway "up-regulations" will result in a higher production of ammonia, urinary sulfates, as well as decreases in Glutathione (GSH) synthesis, and/or possibly imbalances in GSH's redox (reduction/oxidation) ratio.

A major problem with CBS up-regulations besides the inhibition of normal GSH activity, is that there may be a very high loss of methyl groups because they are drawn down through the up-regulated CBS pathway. In this way, CBS up-regulations behave like a toilet that is broken: the water does not refill, and instead flows down the drain continuously.  

This is a potentially catastophic scenario, because methyl groups are essential for other methylation reactions at other critical junctions.  Not only would someone with a CBS up-regulation be losing methyl groups, as well as the primary antioxidant defense in every cell (glutathione),  any additional methyl groups from diet or supplementation could cause a potential surge in CBS up-regulations. The result of this situation is a potential toxic overload of many substances, such as ammonia, sulfite, sulfate and hydrogen sulfide, and whatever else that comes along for the ride.

How each person with CBS up-regulations is affected by methyl group surges is likely very individual. There is no simple way to predict how a CBS mutation is affecting every person. It has been reported that when active CBS up-regulations are present, there does tend to be a decrease in toxic metal excretion, through various pathways, including hair, urine and stool. Furthermore, reducing excessive CBS pathway activity has demonstrated in many instances improvement of metal detoxification, likely through improved GSH status, and/or the redox ratio and the intricacies contained therein.

Clinical Observations Regarding CBS Up-Regulations

It is critical to point out that CBS abnormalities, abnormally high, or abnormally low values may or may not appear in those with genetic mutations for CBS or BHMT.  Although, it appears that individuals with CBS and/or BHMT genetic mutations are more vulnerable to CBS pathway up-regulations.  The following lab data may warrant investigation, or be used to confirm an up-regulation of cystathionine beta synthase (CBS):

The above mentioned CBS and/or BHMT gene mutations
Elevated urinary sulfates: typically greater than 800. If consistently greater than 1000 then high CBS activity is likely
Elevated ammonia and/or sulfate levels on an Organic Acids Test (OAT)
Elevated B6 on an OAT test - B6 may also be elevated during CBS up-regulations
High Taurine Values - Taurine is synthesized via Cysteine
Elevated Orotate, Citrate and Isocitrate on an OAT test indicates elevated ammonia

I take authorship for identifying two observations on a standard blood test that I have witnessed correlate with CBS pathway up-regulations:

BUN (blood, urea, nitrogen) greater than 20 - This is a crude indicator, and BUN may be elevated for other reasons, such as dehydration or renal dysfunction.  In CBS mutations, elevated BUN may be the result of excess ammonia feeding into the urea cycle. Ammonia is converted into urea in the liver.
Elevations in ALT (alanine lactate transferase), typically greater than 30. ALT is a metabolic enzyme found in several tissues and organs.  While ALT can be elevated for numerous reasons (namely liver dysfunction), ALT can also be elevated in response to excess ammonia.  Alanine (the basis of this enzyme) is a transport of ammonia to the liver.
Low levels of homocysteine, (typically less than 6), may also be a strong indicator of CBS up-regulations. This is thought to be due to homocysteine being excessively drawn into transsulfuration via CBS.

Cravings for sulfur-rich foods, or aversion or sensitivity to sulfur and/or sulfur-rich foods may warrant investigating CBS up-regulations.  Aggressive or sedated behavior after consuming L-Glutamine may be due to elevations in ammonia, via CBS up-regulations.

What To Do About It

Often times, CBS up-regulations need to be prioritized with other existing gene mutations, or methylation pathway abnormalities. The strategy for improving function in these regards is highly individual, and necessitates individualized intervention.

Elimination of sulfur-heavy foods appears important: namely cruciferous vegetables, onions, garlic, eggs.

Many researchers claim that individuals who are CBS ++ or +/- , or who have CBS pathway up-regulations, must eliminate flesh proteins.  However I have found this not to be the case, in most instances.

It may be a necessary consideration if one has CBS up-regulations, to reduce one's total sulfur load,  and this may require a reduction in protein, in some instances. From my initial observations, which are limited in number,  reducing or eliminating sulfur-heavy vegetables (cruciferous, garlic, onions) and eggs seems to be the biggest factor for most people. More research and observations are needed.

Restriction of supplemental methyl groups is important. We all need methyl groups, but those with active CBS up-regulations  need to be cautious with how much sulfur and how many methyl groups they are taking in daily.  This includes common supplements such as: L-methionine, L-cysteine, L-taurine, MSM, Glucosamine, L-Glycine, DMSO, SAMe, NAC, methylcobalamin, methyl-folate, Betaine HCL, Choline. Restricting Vitamin B6 may also be warranted in CBS up-regulations. P5P (pyridoxal 5 phosphate), however, does not appear to increase CBS activity.

Strategies and protocols that help the body to manage CBS up-regulations:  B-12 Hydroxycobalamin, Yucca root, FOS's, Dr. Amy Yasko's Ammonia Support RNA, activated charcoal, GABA, Alpha Ketoglutarate, Ornithine, Arginine (arginine and ornithine may be contraindicated for those with NOS gene mutations), CoQ10.   It is clear that the issue of CBS pathway up-regulations are highly clinically significant for many people.  CBS genetic mutations appear to be a "loaded gun". However, gene mutations should not be the only factor that is considered, because the pathways can be obstructed through any number of epigenetic factors.

More research is needed in order to understand the deeper biochemistry of the mechanisms at stake,  as well as better suited strategies for handling these imbalances.

Michael McEvoy has a private nutritional consulting practice. He works with clients nationally and internationally. Please contact him to learn more about his nutritional consulting services and programs.

Sources:

Amy Yasko, PhD, CTN, NHD, AMD, HHP, FAAIM: 'Pathways To Recovery', 2009, NRI

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10527647

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17327360

http://www.jbc.org/content/269/41/25283.short

N Nathan, RA Van Konynenburg - 2009, Treatment Study of Methylation Cycle Support in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia

Guy Schenker, DC, 'An Analytical System of Clinical Nutrition'

Healing Our Thoughts, Healing Ourselves

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 20:55:22 -0800

What are your health priorities? By asking this question, I am asking you to think about what aspects of your health are worthy parts to investigate. For some people, cleaning up their diet is the most important starting point. For others, their diet may already be optimized, and their physiological priority may be elsewhere.

Step 1: Change How You Think

The human body is a complex network of systems, cells, tissues, organs, and glands. If there is communication breakdown, havoc can ensue. A lot of people talk about wanting to get better, but actually have no idea of how to make this happen. Most people think that symptom removal is synonymous with good health; that by taking supplements, or being told what to do, their problems will suddenly go away. Only if it were as simple as that.

The majority of people are accustomed to following what they are told routinely. Recovery from illness or healing from a disease has almost nothing to do with treating the disease, but has everything to do with supporting the health of the body, and improving upon the normal, physiological processes. This takes a lot of responsibility. It takes listening to one's own body and making responsible choices, as well as changes in how one thinks and functions.

There are many more mechanisms at play than just the physical and tangible. Not to mitigate the importance of physiological testing, but in many instances, one's own mindset regarding their state of health, may actually be a central obstacle on the road to health.

For example, many people whose health suffers, have the tendency to associate with their actual health issue, clinging to the diagnosis as if they wear it around themselves like a decoration, or as a type of self-flagellation. Recognizing and working through this type of false self identification is part of the healing process. Attaining higher levels of health is about acceptance of one's own patterns and ways of thinking.

Body-Mind Connection

The human body is more complex than we give it credit. The body-mind connection is well documented. Not only can our thoughts make us sick and unwell, but our thoughts can also make us well and healthy. In many ways, our actions are not only being propelled by our conscious thoughts and desires, but many would argue that unconscious thoughts, fears and desires are driving our actions.

Some of the primary benefits of practices such as meditation, yoga, Qi gong and Feldenkrais method, is body-mind awareness. By harnessing our unconscious, we become more conscious of our decision-making processes. In this case, when we do act, we are more attentive to what we are actually doing.

Healing The Whole Person

As one develops a deeper inquisitiveness about the way that they think and feel, this clearly has a very positive influence upon their physical health. Simply by practicing the act of self awareness, there is an immediate loss of stress, we can breath and think more clearly. But the sense of false self-identification appears as a result of not being aware of one's true sense of self. When we think and act from a false place, we become stressed because we've lost our center, our grounding and foundation.

This concept of clinging to a false sense of self is often a result of unfulfilled desires, and/or a sense of general unawareness about ourselves. This is type of thing is seen when there is compulsive eating, or compulsive behaviour to feed some sort of addiction, instead of eating or acting in a way that will truly nourish ourselves.

The paradox is that no matter how hard we try to get rid of our addictions, fears or desires, we are never successful at eliminating them. This is because we haven't looked deeply from where these sensations arise. The only way to deal with the "monkey on your back" is by embracing it, accepting the truth of oneself, as horrible or as embarrassing as that may be. Once the truth is revealed and seen for what it is, we are free.

How This Relates To Health

By making conscious choices, we are taking a step towards healing. It is an unfortunate reality that many forms of healthcare are based in provoking a sense of fear and desire on the part of the consumer or patient. Through marketing propaganda, people are persuaded to talk to their doctor about some new drug.

The bottom line is that humans are preyed upon and exploited because of their unresolved unconscious desires and fears. This doesn't bode well for our health, because again, if we are driven by our unconscious fears, rather than our rational faculties, how can we make healthy, rational choices?

There is a need to free oneself from the entanglements of unawareness. The simple act of inquisitiveness into our true nature is as good a starting point as any.

Interested in meditation as a means to tapping into your self awareness? See this 3 part guided meditation for adrenal fatigue.

Zinc & Copper Imbalances: Immense Biochemical Implications

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 19:04:31 -0800

The status of zinc and copper levels may have profound implications for many people. Much has been written about the significance of these two trace elements for many, many years. Many health conditions may be directly caused by abnormal zinc and copper levels.

With all of the recent attention given to methylation status, gene mutations, MTHFR, and the associated neurological and mental/behavioral disorders that may ensue, zinc and copper status remains a pivotal ratio in these regards.

While zinc toxicity and copper deficiency are possible, the subject of this article is on the more common imbalance: copper toxicity and zinc deficiency.

The Physiological Roles Of Zinc & Copper

Zinc and copper are antagonists. The balance between these two trace elements is an example of the effects of biological dualism. While zinc toxicity is possible, far more common is zinc deficiency and copper toxicity. Both zinc and copper play essential roles in the body, and there can be a number of causes for why imbalances ensue.

It may be easier to identify the roles that zinc doesn't play in the body, than the roles it does play. Zinc is an essential trace element that activates several hundred enzymatic reactions. These reactions are fundamental to life and biological activity. Some of the activities that zinc are involved in:

DNA & RNA synthesis
Gene expression
Nervous system function
Immune function & immune signaling such as cell apoptosis
Neuronal transmission
Brain function
Zinc possesses powerful anabolic activities in the cells
Formation of zinc proteins known as "zinc fingers"
Zinc is essential for blood clotting and platelet formation
Zinc is involved in Vitamin A synthesis
Folate is made available through zinc enzyme reactions
Along with copper, Zinc makes up the antioxidant enzyme system, ZnCu superoxide dismutase
Steroidal hormone synthesis
Growth & development of children
Testosterone and semen formation
The highest concentration of zinc is found in the male prostate gland

Copper is an essential trace element serving many important functions as well. However, copper is well documented to induce several toxic effects in the body, when elevated. Because copper is a pro-oxidant when free and unbound, it can quickly generate free radicals.

The major sources for copper toxicity are: exposure to industrial forms of copper such as copper pipes, copper cookware, birth control, exposure to copper-based fungicides. Diets high in copper and low in zinc may play a role in copper toxicity. Pyrrole disorder, which causes depletion of zinc, may result in elevated levels of copper.

Some of the essential roles copper plays in the body:

Connective tissue formation
ATP synthesis
Iron metabolism
Brain health via neurotransmitter synthesis
Gene transcription
Synthesis of the antioxidant superoxide dismutase
Skin pigmentation
Nerve tissue: myelin sheath formation
Copper tends to rise when estrogen is dominant

Perhaps one of the first reports that zinc and copper imbalances play a role in human health and disease was their detection in mental disorders made by Carl Pfeiffer, MD, PhD. Dr. Pfeiffer identified a condition known as pyrrole disorder, sometimes referred to as pyrroluria or "mauve factor".

As it turns out, pyrrole disorder is a major biochemical imbalance in many people with chronic illnesses such as chronic Lyme disease, autism, schizophrenia, depression, bi-polar, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Pyrroles are a byproduct of hemoglobin synthesis. Apparently, some individuals are more predisposed towards producing higher amounts of pyrroles. When pyrroles are excessive, they irreversibly bind to zinc and vitamin B6, causing their excretion. Consequently, it is common that once zinc levels become depleted, copper levels tend to rise.

Copper Toxicity

Problems associated with copper toxicity include: pyrrole disorder, estrogen dominance, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorder, chronic fatigue, migraines, liver toxicity, thyroid conditions, chronic candida yeast infections, PMS, to name a few. Some research has even implicated copper toxicity with Alzheimer's Disease and with cardiovascular disease. Perhaps one of the primary mechanisms through which copper toxicity can damage tissues is through its initiation of oxidative stress and free radical formation. Free copper ions that are not bound to copper proteins such as ceruloplasmin, are pro-oxidants, and are highly reactive.

Empirical research from clinicians, indicates that there are different types of copper imbalances. For example, if there is a lot of free, unbound copper present, this may cause a situation of nutritive copper deficiency. Another copper imbalance is when high pyrroles depress zinc levels, and copper levels concomintantly rise. If high pyrroles are present, B6 will also be lost in high amounts. In a general but very real sense, all forms of copper excess will affect zinc status, due to the dualistic nature of zinc and copper.

Copper & Estrogen

It has been known for many years that copper can cause a rise in estrogen, and conversely estrogen may raise copper. Estrogen dominance has been extensively studied in its role in breast cancer development. One possible, critical role that can cause estrogen to become carcinogenic, is through its oxidation induced by copper. Once oxidized, estrogen forms volatile hydroxyl radicals and the associated DNA damage and "mutagenesis".

Zinc Deficiency

As mentioned previously, pyrrole disorder will directly depress zinc status, causing high levels of its excretion. When zinc is lost, copper rises. Because of their essential roles in neurotransmitter synthesis, low zinc and high copper levels can directly effect cognition, behavior and thought processes. Zinc has been studied in biochemical reactions involving calcium-driven, synaptic neurotransmission, as well as in glutamate/GABA balance and with limbic brain function.

Zinc & Reproduction

Zinc is essential for steroidal hormone synthesis, and is a well known catalyst for testosterone synthesis, as well as leutinizing hormone. Zinc has demonstrated its ability to prevent miscarriage and toxicity during pregnancy. The male prostate gland reportedly contains the highest concentration of zinc in the body.

Zinc & Brain Function

Much attention has been given to excitotoxicity, such as the effects induced by MSG (monosodium glutamtate). Excess stimulation of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, may cause severe physical and psychological reactions in certain individuals. Zinc has been studied for its ability to enhance GABA (glutamate's antagonistic neurotransmitter) activity and to suppress excess glutamate.

Studies on mice demonstrated that when depleted of zinc for two weeks, the mice developed seizures, most likely due to GABA deficiencies and glutamate excess.

There is an emerging body of evidence that demonstrates that Alzheimer's disease may involve copper toxicity and zinc deficiency. Not only can excess copper cause zinc depletion, but so can excess lead.

The hippocampus, a major part of the limbic brain, records memories and is responsible for processing meaningful experiences. Numerous studies site that if hippocampal cells are deprived of zinc, the hippocampal cells die. In addition to hippocampus cell death induced by zinc deprivation, the amygdala, the other major limbic gland experiences cell death as well, when deprived of zinc.

Testing Zinc & Copper Status

What are the best methods for testing zinc and copper? The jury is still out on this one. However, it seems that if zinc status in serum or plasma is tested, the same should be performed on copper values. Additionally, reliance upon laboratory reference ranges has very limited value, due to the fact that reference ranges are derived from statistical averages, and not necessarily optimum functioning levels.

RBC (red blood cell) measurements of minerals is believed to be a very accurate indicator of the cells' carrying capacity of a particular nutrient.

Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) is a valid way to monitor zinc and copper activity. According to clinical observations made by William Walsh, PhD, when HTMA zinc levels are depressed, they correlate very well with low plasma levels. According to Walsh, and other clinicians, elevated HTMA levels of zinc may also indicate a problem, due to excess zinc leaving the body. Although it is my opinion that serum or plasma values should be concomitantly tested, especially if there is reason to suspect a zinc/copper imbalance, such as in the case of pyrrole disorder, chronic fatigue, lyme disease, a behavioral disorder or mental illness.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3968590

http://journals.lww.com/jinvestigativemed/Citation/2005/01010/Zinc_Deficiency_Alters_Deoxyribonucleic_Acid.141.aspx

http://www.pyroluriatesting.com/

http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/ar00034a005

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6727650

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938404003105

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1600-0447.1963.tb07470.x/abstract

http://www.biobalance.org.au/articles/17

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20150596

http://ebm.rsmjournals.com/content/232/2/323.short

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/132/2/270.full

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15845090

Jing Qian and Jeffrey L. Noebels, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas "Exocytosis of Vesicular Zinc Reveals Persistent Depression of Neurotransmitter Release during Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Long-Term Depression at the Hippocampal CA3–CA1 Synapse"

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1046/j.1471-4159.2003.01803.x/full

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0306987791902776

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/133/5/1473S.short

http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=17186550

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0197018606002233

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/130/5/1432S.short

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9344463

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18338309

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19685012

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3579922

http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF02784623?LI=true

'Nutrient Power: Heal Your Biochemistry & Heal Your Brain", William Walsh, PhD

'Mental & Elemental Nutrients', Carl C Pfeiffer, MD, PhD

http://www.orthomolecular.org/library/jom/1999/articles/1999-v14n01-p028.shtml

The Deep Epigenetic Impact of Nutrition: Heal Your Future Generations NOW

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 22:18:20 -0700

The sight of seeing a predictive outcome analysis for the development of a disease process from a genetic test has many people scared out of their socks. In many cases, some people have no interest in looking at the data at all. But of course, these individuals are still under the premise that their inherited gene sequence means certain diseases are inevitable. Nothing can be further from the truth.

Epigenetics demonstrates that gene expression is influenced heavily by lifestyle factors, such as diet, how well your body can adapt to stress and its environment, as well as how well your body can detoxify chemicals and toxic metals. Of course, if you have inherent genetic weaknesses, you consume a standard American diet and are filled with toxic mercury from dental amalgams, then the health outcome of the situation is headed down hill.

Even if you have mutated genes that alter the function of important biochemical pathways of your body, such as in methylation pathways, there are ways to bypass the issues. Gene-specific nutrient therapy, referred to as Nutrigenomics and a strong, individualized whole food diet, can prevent your genetic weaknesses from expressing certain diseases.

What's more, is that the study of the epigenome demonstrates that changes in DNA and histones can be passed down from parent to child. And yet, the underlying genetic sequence remains unchanged. This means that a bad diet and exposure to lots of toxins will not only affect your health, but can affect the health of your children and even their future generations.

Your "Sins Of Health" Will Be Reflected In Your Children

Back in the 1930's, when Weston A. Price photographed native people who had jumped off of their ancestral diet and had adopted westernized ways eating, he found that the children were the first generations to suffer sickness, bone and structural deformities and had a great susceptibility to diseases not previously seen in past generations. Why?

Epigenetics demonstrates that changes in gene expression due to the changes in the health of BOTH parents, impacts subsequent generations. Some research even suggests that inherited epigenetic changes may be due more to the father's epigenetic expression than the mother's. It is these reasons why so many current clinicians are emphasizing pre-natal health, and improving the health of parents, BOTH parents.

Personally, I believe pre-natal care should begin in the womb. And by "the womb" I am talking about when the parents themselves are in the womb. Preparation for pregnancy shouldn't begin on the day before conception! It should begin years before, decades before, generations before. The concept of "you are what you eat" goes VERY deep. In fact, I would restate that phrase to say: "you are what you eat, and what you eat and how you consciously take care of your body is ultimately what your children will become, and what their children will become".

But now we have situations where various diseases, many not previously seen, such as autism, have become epidemic literally within a 20-year period of time. That's astounding, not to mention deeply disturbing and profoundly sad.

But it isn't just about autism. That is only the tip of the iceberg. We're talking about all types of diseases. These epigenetic changes have taken a long time to manifest. Its taken generations of junk diets, pesticide, chemical and toxic metal exposure, to procure the manifestation of neurological and inflammatory diseases. I'm not saying that other factor's such as toxic vaccines aren't involved - they most certainly are. And the neurotoxic chemicals and heavy metals in these vaccines undoubtedly are having impacts upon epigenome expression. However, there are many factors involved. Chemical changes in DNA and histones due to epigenetic influences passed down from past generations is a major factor, and certainly is leaving children extremely vulnerable to all types of environmental factors when they pop out of the womb; or even when they are still in the womb.

Epigenetic expression explains why some individuals are just so much more sensitive to environmental toxins than others. Epigenetic expression can explain why certain individuals are vastly more susceptible to developing cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune disease than someone else. Epigenetics may very well explain someday why some people that have Lyme disease are so highly symptomatic, and yet others who are carriers have no symptoms.

The Role Of Environmental Toxins On Gene Expression

Research conducted on rats demonstrated that exposure to a common fungicide alters the physiology, metabolic activity, behavior and brain nuclei in descendant rats 3 generations removed! The researchers call this "epigenetic transgenerational inheritance".

What we have here is evidence that exposure to chemicals is capable of altering genetic expression, to not only our children, but to our children's children, and their children too! Think about that the next time you decide to spray your weeds with Monsanto's Roundup.

In fact, a recent study conducted on rats exposed lifelong to Monsanto's Round-up and Monsanto's GMO corn reveal absolutely horrifying results: all mice developed tumors, 50-70% died prematurely. This study was the most dramatic and definitive piece of evidence to show the massive genetic implications of chemicals and genetically modified foods.

What To Do?

Future generations of this earth have a lot to look forward to: the inherited toxicity of their ancestors now all dead, their inherited gene mutations and the effects of epigenetic changes to DNA and histones, and the exposure to future environmental toxicities.

You want to give your children something to look forward to? Its time to get serious about your health. If not for you, then for them. Those who continue to be ignorant of their own health, will not only be impacting themselves, but their offspring several generations down the line.

Sources:

http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/139/2/287.short

http://www.nature.com/ng/journal/v39/n5/abs/ng2031.html

http://www.springerlink.com/content/q011726647gx351w/

http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15368370802608696

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0027510708002558

http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2012/05/15/1118514109.abstract

What Is MTHFR & Why Is It Significant For Your Health?

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 22:19:36 -0700

In recent years, an enormous amount of data regarding genetics and gene mutations have surfaced. Medical literature is filled with current and updated articles exploring the various complexities of the genome. Many people believe that genetic information holds a key to unlocking better treatment options, better predictability for disease processes, as well as better protection from disease.

And while there may be a lot of truth in this, it should be pointed out that your fixed, gene sequence does not necessarily guarantee you a life filled with disease, nor does your fixed gene sequence automatically guarantee you protection from disease and illness. The study of how your genes are expressed, referred to as epigenetics, indicates that the influence of diet, toxicity and environmental factors may be more influential than your fixed gene sequence when it comes to your health.

Nonetheless, inherited gene mutations in your gene sequence certainly may predispose you towards developing certain health issues. Inherited gene mutations are your weaknesses and may increase your vulnerability to certain disease processes, especially when coupled with an epigenetic trigger such as an environmental toxin or a nutrient deficiency.

An MTHFR gene mutation is an example of one type of a genetic mutation. If you have an MTHFR gene mutation, there could be serious health consequences that follow, if this mutation is being expressed.

MTHFR, Homocysteine & Cardiovascular Disease

MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is an enzyme encoded by the MTHFR gene. This gene plays a very significant role in the methylation pathways of the body, and as such is essential for the production of certain key, nutrient substrates.

MTHFR is needed for DNA reproduction and is essential for folate metabolism, where the substrate 5, 10 methylenetetrahydrofolate is converted into 5 methylenetetrahydrofolate. If an MTHFR mutation is present, and the mutation is being expressed, a person may become deficient in 5 methylenetetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).

5-MTHF is a key nutrient substrate. A deficiency in 5-MTHF is significant.

One of the essential roles of MTHFR and 5-MTHF is to aid in the re-conversion of homocysteine into L-methionine. Homocysteine is an oxidized amino acid, one that is derived from L-methionine. In the methylation cycle, homocysteine must convert back into L-methionine. If it does not re-convert effectively, homocysteine levels may remain elevated, predisposing one towards developing cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Mutations in MTHFR, and deficiencies in 5-MTHF may predispose a fetus towards developing neural tube birth defects in utero, such as spina bifida. MTHFR mutations may also be a significant factor in dementia, autism, schizophrenia, colon, breast and rectal cancers.

It is believed that as much as 50% of the population has some type of MTHFR mutation. Some mutations are more serious than others. In the autism research field, Dr. Amy Yasko has not seen an autistic child who did not have one or more MTHFR gene mutations.

The type of MTHFR variation you have may lead to a greater susceptibility to certain diseases. For example, the C677T mutations may predispose one towards cardiovascular disease, peripheral neuropathy, and birth defects. Whereas variations of the A1298T may lead more towards the development of fibromyalgia, schizophrenia, migraines, nerve pain, parkinson's chronic fatigue and dementia.

MTHFR Is One of Many Possible Gene Mutations

There are an array of potential gene mutations. MTHFR is only one gene. It is more important to understand the function of entire groups of genes in biochemical pathways, instead of just knowing if mutations exist to one or two genes.

If you have an MTHFR mutation, it is just as important to know if other mutations exist, especially if you are predisposed towards a chronic disease. Other genes that are significant in the methylation cycles besides MTHFR include: CBS (cystathionine beta synthase), BHMT (betaine homocysteine methyltransferase), MTRR (methionine synthase reductase), SUOX (sulfite oxidase), to name just a few.

Nonetheless, MTHFR gene mutations may be significant, and warrant nutritional intervention. However, it is my firm opinion that evaluation of related genes and their activity be tested in order to make protocols more concise and effective.

Sources:

http://www.bmj.com/content/328/7455/1535

http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/111/19/e289.full

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11683544

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22492374

http://www.primarypsychiatry.com/aspx/articledetail.aspx?articleid=1939

http://www.primarypsychiatry.com/aspx/articledetail.aspx?articleid=2501

Hepatic Portal Vein Dilation: The Remarkable Benefits of Coffee Enemas

Sat, 08 Sep 2012 18:42:17 -0700

It may seem odd if you've never heard of them before. However, many people report on obtaining great benefits by performing coffee enemas. In my nutritional consulting practice, I have received dozens of emails from people telling me how beneficial coffee enemas have been for their health. Many people report to me that coffee enemas have helped them to rapidly eliminate: pain, headaches, PMS, migraines, allergies, fatigue, constipation and digestive issues.

Coffee enemas are not a new technique. Actually coffee enemas appear in medical literature dating back to the late 19th century, and as recently as the Merck manual in 1972.. Coffee enemas are used by numerous alternative therapies, including various alternative cancer therapies.

Coffee Enemas: Method of Action

A coffee enema is not the same as an ordinary water-based enema. It is believed that caffeine from coffee travels directly to the liver through the hepatic portal vein in the large intestine, which is a direct source of blood to the liver. It may also be true that the theobromine and theophylline in coffee dilates the hepatic portal vein and increases the concentration of blood to the liver. The increase in liver activity may stimulate both phases of liver detoxification pathways, resulting in an increase in bile flow and detoxification.

Some reports indicate coffee enemas may also increase glutathione activity, the conjugation of which occurs during the second phase of liver detoxification.

The method of action for the improvement of symptoms may be due to the coffee enemas' stimulation of parasympathetic nerves in the gut, which have a relaxing effect on the body. Many people inquire whether a coffee enema is stimulating like drinking coffee. It is not, according to most people's testimony. In fact many people who are intolerant to caffeine report no problems at all when performing a coffee enema.

One possible caveat of coffee enemas is the issue related to hydration. If a person is not well hydrated, a coffee enema may be of little benefit. So its always important to maintain sufficient hydration levels. However, if a person is well hydrated, a coffee enema may be of great benefit.

People report to me that the benefits and therapeutic effects of coffee enemas are more significant than water based enemas. These testimonials strongly indicate a method of action of coffee enemas that are unique.

Sources:

http://www.gersonhawaii.us/gersonarticle5.html

Iron Toxicity & Pathogenic Infections

Mon, 03 Sep 2012 19:11:10 -0700

One indicator of possible pathogenic infections is high iron levels. Host pathogens need iron for survival. There is evidence that increased levels of iron decreases certain immune cell scavenging abilities, such as neutrophils, and T cells. Simultaneously, increased levels of iron become a source of replication for certain pathogens, such as gram negative bacteria, klebsiella, aeruginosa, listeria, tuberculosis, gonorrhoae, candida albicans and others. Reduction of iron levels has demonstrated in animal studies to inhibit the promulgation of certain pathogens, such as shigella.

There is evidence that decreased serum iron may also be due to pathogens using iron for its own purposes. This may be especially true if there is a rapid and precipitous drop in iron levels.

Iron is essential for life processes. It has essential roles in the body such as red blood cell and hemoglobin formation, ATP synthesis in every cell of the body, as well as its need for the formation of the antioxidant catalase. While iron is essential for life, iron is a very toxic element that requires sufficient iron binding proteins such as transferrin, ferritin and lactoferrin. Excess iron accumulation not only can increase pathogens, but can also become a primary cause of oxidative stress and free radical activity. Iron is an extremely reactive mineral when unbound and exposed to oxygen.

There is ongoing research that demonstrates that microorganisms have developed mechanisms for stealing ferritin (the protein that stores iron and releases it) from different organs and tissues of the body. For example, listeria obtains ferritin from neurons, epithelial cells, macrophages and intestinal cells. The parasite entamoeba histolytica steals ferritin from the blood, brain, lungs and intestines. Candida Albicans can heist ferritin from the GI tract to survive.

Iron: Identifying Exogenous Sources of Toxicity

Industrial sources of iron are potentially very toxic to the body. Municipal tap water may contain industrial iron due to degrading pipes. Welders and iron workers are exposed to high amounts of iron, and this profession may contribute to iron toxicity in certain individuals. Iron cookware may increase the absorption of industrial forms of iron in some instances.

Supplement manufacturers sometimes include iron in supplemental form. The author of this article does not believe supplemental iron should be taken due to possible issues associated with its toxicity. In fact, recent studies conducted in the Netherlands has found that supplemental iron increases the risk for salmonella infection.

Natural dietary sources of iron may have little to do with elevated serum iron values. It has been the author's experience that individuals consuming a diet lacking in iron-rich foods could still have high serum iron values. The issue of elevated and decreased serum iron appears to be more functionally related. And the presence of pathogens may be one reason why.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2981329/

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/137/5/1341.full

http://cid.oxfordjournals.org/content/51/3/e16.full

http://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386%2899%2970339-2/abstract

www.jci.org/articles/view/109062/files/pdf

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6465688

http://www.healtheiron.com/iron-infection

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15180450

http://www.plospathogens.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.ppat.1000217

Iron Availability Increases the Pathogenic Potential of Salmonella Typhimurium and Other Enteric Pathogens at the Intestinal Epithelial Interface, Kortman, Boleij, Swinkels, Tjalsma, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Dec 2011

Mental Illness Or Methylation Mutation?

Sun, 26 Aug 2012 19:22:29 -0700

Suppose you walked into your doctor's office and he told you: "you look like you have cancer. We need to be put you on chemotherapy medications immediately." "What? How are you so sure, did you run any tests?", you ask. "No" replies the doctor, "you just look like you have cancer".

As insane as this situation appears, this is an example of how a diagnosis is made in conventional psychiatry. Despite the enormous amount of psychiatric medications prescribed annually, almost all diagnoses is made solely on a behavioral basis. No physiological testing is conducted, no neurotransmitter analysis, no blood, no urine analysis, no biochemical analysis. Zero. And despite this radical departure from scientific inquiry, psychiatrists are legally allowed to prescribe brain altering chemicals, most of which change how the brain functions and creates dangerous chemical dependency.

More frightening is that psychiatrists may not be sure of what psychiatric medications are actually doing in the brain and body, let alone what the combined effect of multiple medications may be. As of 2011, an estimated 1 in 10 Americans were taking anti-depressant medications. Studies indicate that antidepressant medications double the risk of suicidal behavior in young adults. Many types of psychotropic drugs are linked to violent behavior, and it has been well known that many mass murderers were taking SSRI medications.

22% of Americans suffer from a so called "mental disorder" of some kind. This can include: depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, as well as "behavioral disorders" such as attention deficit and OCD. There are now other ambiguous mental disorder labels such as "borderline personality disorder." Again, none of these disorders are diagnosed through any scientific, biochemical means. They are diagnosed through subjective, behavioral symptoms alone.

The US government has invested one trillion dollars in the "war on drugs" since the early 1970's. And yet the most chemically and physically addictive, (not to mention most profitable drugs) are available legally by psychiatrists. And one needs no biochemical testing done to be prescribed these drugs.

Groundbreaking Research That Will Change Mental & Behavioral Health

Epigenetics is the study of how the environment influences gene expression. Environment can be anything from diet, nutrient deficiencies, toxicity and the impact of physical trauma and stress on the how your genes are expressed. In recent years, there have been emerging studies that definitively link epigenetic changes in gene expression with schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder. This means that your genes do not rule you, as much as your diet, lifestyle, toxicity-related factors and stress may rule how your genes express mental illness (as well as huge groups of other disease processes).

One study in particular was conducted on 22 pairs of identical twins. Identical twins have identical DNA. However one twin among each pair expressed bi-polar or schizophrenia, and the other did not. Researchers investigated why this was the case, despite having identical DNA. In the mentally ill twin, researchers found significant changes in how certain genes were methylated. In some cases, there were significant over and undermethylation of certain genes that were present, due to epigenetic altercations.

This means that some type of environmental influence is responsible for causing mental illness in these identical twins.

Methylation

Methylation is a chemical process that occurs in every cell of the body. Methylation is essential for many critical functions such as DNA and RNA synthesis and expression, glutathione conjugation and synthesis, synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, GABA. Proper methylation is also essential for immune regulation, including viral inhibition.

The implications with improper methylation is now being seen as causative triggers in several groups of disease processes, such as neurological inflammatory diseases like parkinson's, alzheimer's and autism. Autoimmune diseases such as MS (multiple sclerosis) lupus, and RA (rheumatoid arthritis) are strongly associated with epigenetic methylation mutations. For nearly 30 years, it has been known that cancer involves over and undermethylation.

Mental Illness: Abnormal Methylation Has Been Seen For Decades

Prior to all of the recent discoveries with methylation, genetics and epigenetics, researchers have known for decades that mental illness invovled, or was caused by problems in methylation and the "one carbon cycles". Many of these researchers were, and still are reversing the symptoms of mental illness by providing the missing nutrient substrates in methylation cycles.

For decades a number of pioneering researchers have been studying the biochemical activity in mental illness. The early work of Abram Hoffer, MD, PhD provided the essential framework for the role of nutrients in brain biochemistry. Nutrients after all are the primary biochemical substrates for all biochemical activity, including neurotransmitter synthesis.

The research and work of Carl Pfeiffer, MD, PhD led to innovative and very effective nutrient therapies for mental illness. Two of Pfeiffer's significant contributions were identifying the role of pyrrole disorder and copper toxicity in certain mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia. Dr. Pfeiffer compiled a database of more than 20,000 schizophrenics and was the first to categorize the mental illness in terms of individual "biotypes".

Over his extensive career, William Walsh, PhD conducted research on more than 30,000 patients of mental health and behavioral disorders and conducted several million biochemical tests. Dr. Walsh has expanded upon the earlier work of Pfeiffer and Hoffer, and has launched the biochemistry of mental illness into new arenas, thanks in part to recent discoveries and advances in genetics and epigenetics.

Dr. Walsh has documented that the urine and blood chemistry of mentally ill patient populations are strikingly different than non-mentally ill subjects. Furthermore, he has identified a number of biochemical imbalances in various mental illnesses and behavioral disabilities.

Amy Yasko, PhD has been leading the charge in autism research, nutrigenomics and methylation for many years. Her pioneering work has led to the development of highly integrative and individualized nutritional therapies for autism spectrum, as well as for diseases involving neurological inflammation.

Tying It All Together: Nutrient Power & Nutrigenomics

There now exists ways to bypass specific gene mutations by supplying missing nutrient substrates, thereby restoring function to entire biochemical pathways. These include the biochemical pathways responsible for neurotransmitter synthesis.

Biochemically speaking, the human body creates what it needs from nutrients and nutrient substrates in biochemical pathways. Without question, gene mutations caused by epigenetic factors (nutrient deficiencies, various toxicities, varying stressors) are now being recognized as primary factors in many disease processes, including mental illness. These gene mutations prevent certain nutrient substrates from being produced (or in some cases over-produced) in biochemical pathways such as in methylation, but also in pathways such as transsulfuration and acetylation.

The study of how specific nutrients and nutrient substrates can be used to bypass mutated genes is called "nutrigenomics". The current and emerging science and clinical application of nutrigenomics, involves supplementing with missing biochemical nutrient substrates, as well as compensating for excesses of certain substrates. This is the future of medicine, and the future is already happening. Lives are being transformed.

Clinical evidence of this is apparent in Dr. Yasko's work, as well as in the extensive work and research of Dr's Walsh and Pfeiffer over several decades. The emerging science of epigenetics is validating their work of previous decades, and is exapnding upon it rapidly, with new emerging discoveries.

It is quite clear that extensive research into mental and behavioral health needs to move in the direction of DNA methylation, epigenetics, and gene-specific nutrient therapy. Will it?

The profession of psychiatry has a choice of either adhering to the dogma of its widespread use of psychotropic medications, or it can acknowledge the emerging science of gene-specific nutrient therapy, epigenetics and nutrigenomics as being the safer, more scientific and more effective modality, not to mention less expensive. If psychiatry is to side with the former, then its adherence to dogmatism may be viewed in concert with its financial incentives. However, its choice to side with the latter, would allow the restoration of mental health to millions of people.

Sources:

C Sugden (2006). One-Carbon Metabolism in Psychiatric Illness. Nutrition Research Reviews, 19, pp 117-136 doi: 10.1079/NRR2006119

J Smythies (2012) The Role of Abnormalities Related to the One Carbon Cycle in Depression & Schizophrenia, Neuroscience & Medicine, 2012, 3, 101-106

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6329330

http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/content/20/24/4786

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22426120?dopt=AbstractPlus

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17893979

http://health.ucsd.edu/news/releases/Pages/2012-07-03-epigenetics-alters-rheumatoid-arthritis-genes.aspx

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12200190

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19117641

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20375269

http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/80/6/1611.abstract

Nutrient Power: Heal Your Biochemistry & Heal Your Brain, W. Walsh, PhD, 2012

Mental & Elemental Nutrients, C. Pfeiffer, PhD, MD, 1975

Methylation, Epigenetics & Nutrigenomics: Identifying & Correcting The Core Issues In Disease

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 11:46:13 -0700

Have you heard of methylation before? In 5-8 years from now, problems in a person's "methylation" cycle is going to be widely recognized as one of the core, underlying factors in many health issues and degenerative diseases.

Methylation gene defects and epigenetic altercations to certain genes essential in the methylation pathways of the body can explain many, if not most mental illnesses, including: schizophrenia, bi-polar, mania, depression and OCD. The understanding of methylation's role in mental health has evolved from the extensive research of Abram Hoffer, MD, PhD, Carl Pfeiffer, MD, PhD, William Walsh, PhD and others.

Problems in how certain individuals methylate is being studied extensively in autism research. Leading the charge in this field are researchers such as Amy Yasko, PhD. Yasko makes it a point to explain that the causative biochemical factors faced in neurodegenerative diseases are very similar, and largely involve problems in how a person methylates.

Methylation: Critical for Biochemical Function

Research reveals that environmental factors, such as diet and toxicity have an enormous influence on how methylation pathways function. For example, deficiencies in certain key nutrient substrates such as L-methionine, folate, B-6 and B-12 will greatly impact activity in methylation pathways. Genetic defects in methylation pathways are also a factor that can block the expression of certain genes, or cause the expression of others.

Methylation is a critical series of pathways in biological systems. How important is methylation? Consider that methylation results in:

neurotransmitter synthesis, chiefly dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, which influence mood, sleep, behavior, cognition and memory
regulation of gene expression & protein function
synthesis of cellular antioxidants such as glutathione
modification of toxic, heavy metals
immune activation and regulation
regulation and expression of homocysteine
the expression or suppression of a disease, and the suppression of genes that should not be expressed
repair and regeneration of cells, tissues and DNA
hormone activity and expression
viral inhibition

Consider that blocks or defects in methylation pathways can have very serious consequences. For example, improper re-methylation of homocysteine can cause a high level of homocysteine in blood, and become a primary factor in the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Or, due to a congenital defect in a methylation gene, such as MTHFR, homocysteine levels may be elevated significantly and be the missing link in the development of cardiovascular disease, leukemia, colon cancer, vascular disease and others.

MTHFR

If mutations or defects in certain methylation genes exist, the complex methylation sequence will be negatively affected, and consequently, certain essential substrates will not be produced. In recent years, an enormous amount of research has surfaced regarding one gene/enzyme in particular, MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase). There are actually more than 50 genes that make up MTHFR. This gene mutation is implicated as a causative factor in a very long list of diseases, including mental illness, neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, autism, as well as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida and many more.

If an MTHFR gene mutation exists, a person cannot convert folate substrates into the correct forms needed, and consequently there will be immense blocks in how the methylation pathways function. This will effect other parts of the methylation pathways, and can result in serious mental illnesses, disease progression and various toxicities. Nutritional biochemical science has responded by formulating the missing nutrient if an MTHFR mutation exists. The nutrient is called L-5 MTHF.

Identification of Other Gene Mutations

There are many, many genes involved in the methylation cycle. Genetic methylation tests can now identify many of the core genes that may be damaged, or mutated. Other gene defects such as MTRR indicates a person cannot properly methylate B-12. As a result, homocysteine toxicity will take place, as well as poor conversion of L-methionine into SAMe. An MTRR mutation can result in birth defects, high levels of homocysteine, down syndrome and cancer, and like other gene mutations will alter other aspects of how the methylation pathways function. If an MTRR gene mutation exists, supplementing with the correct form of B-12 is imperative in order to bypass the mutation.

Another example of a methylation gene mutation is CBS mutation. In this mutation, there is a major up-regulation of sulfur bi-products. As a result, there is a high amount of ammonia produced and glutathione levels become depleted. From CBS mutations, there is a high amount of free radicals generated, and nitric oxide production is reduced.

The above are 2 examples of gene mutations in the methylation pathways. Obviously, things can get complicated when there is more than one genetic mutation present. Fortunately there is brilliant research that is emerging with rapid fervency.

Nutritional Science Is On The Cutting Edge

Can you imagine a world where disease, illness and human suffering is less? I can. Discoveries in genetics, epigenetics and biochemistry have allowed the floodgates to open, with the very real possibility that many diseases can now be prevented, and even reversed with gene-specific nutrient therapy.

Nutrients, not pharmaceuticals are the fuel that drives all biochemical pathways. The science of the study of nutrients and genetic expression is referred to as "nutrigenomics". This is the future of medicine.

There now exists a flurry of gene and methylation panel testing, which can identify your body's essential nutrient needs with specificity. Contact me if you are interested in my testing recommendations.

Bypassing mutated genes by supplying missing nutrient substrates in certain methylation pathways will change how all cells of your body function. Identification of genetic methylation defects may explain so called "bad genes" or "congenital tendencies". Furthermore, due to the paradigm-changing and emerging science of epigenetics and nutrigenomics, there is no further need to assume that inherited genetics or "bad genes" is a death sentence to disease. That paradigm is out the window, and anyone still adhering to that dogma has already been left in the dust.

Sources:

http://cardiovascres.oxfordjournals.org/content/43/4/985.short

http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/64/11/3807.short

http://cebp.aacrjournals.org/content/13/2/190.short

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ana.20509/full

http://www.springerlink.com/content/th05m1qx0n4u4465/?MUD=MP

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/%28SICI%291096-8628%2819970919%2974:5%3C526::AID-AJMG14%3E3.0.CO;2-E/abstract

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304394006002163

doctorsdata.com/methylation.pdf

http://drmyhill.co.uk/wiki/CFS_-_The_Methylation_Cycle

http://www.latitudes.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=837

http://www.rawlins.org/mthfr/mthfr.html

http://heartfixer.com/AMRI-Outcomes-Non-CV-Autism-Methyl%20Cycle.htm#CBS

'Mental & Elemental Nutrients', Pfeiffer, MD, PhD, 1975

'Nutrient Power: Heal Your Biochemistry & Heal Your Brain', Walsh, PhD, 2012

Glutathione: Identifying Possible Deficiencies of This Powerful Antioxidant

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 23:08:25 -0700

Glutathione, referred to as GSH is one of the most powerful and ubiquitous antioxidants in the cells of the human body. As an antioxidant, GSH neutralizes free radicals and peroxides, preventing them from damaging cells and tissues. Glutathione is essential for repairing DNA. GSH also keeps other antioxidants active, such as vitamins C and E.

While essential in all cells, glutathione is essential to both the liver and kidneys, and especially during the second phase of liver detoxification. Without sufficient glutathione, environmental chemicals and heavy metals such as mercury would have devastating effects upon the brain, kidneys, liver, nervous system, immune system, gut and endocrine system. In fact, sufficient levels of glutathione are what inactivate and move these toxins into an excretable form.

Glutathione is called a "tripeptide", because it is comprised of 3 amino acids: cysteine, glycine and glutamine. Also essential for the synthesis of glutathione: vitamin C, lipotrophics such as inositol and choline, and the minerals magnesium and selenium (selenium is essential for the peroxidase forms of glutathione).

Deficiencies of glutathione and the nutrients that are essential for its synthesis is believed to be a significant factor in the development of a number of disease processes.

Indirect Factors For Assessing A Possible GSH Deficiency

There are 2 possible factors which may be used to indirectly assess a decrease of GSH activity. These factors can be obtained from a routine blood test. They are:

Albumin
GGTP (gamma glutamyl transpeptidase)

Albumin is one of the primary blood proteins. It is made almost entirely in the liver. If low, it can correlate with blood pressure irregularities, as well as nutrient deficiencies. Albumin is a nutrient transport. It "delivers the goods" to the cells. Studies have shown that sufficient levels of albumin are essential for maintaining GSH.

Therefore diminished values of of albumin, (typically less than 4.0 g/dl), may reflect a decrease in glutathione.

Possibly an even more sensitive factor for indirectly identifying GSH insufficiency is the metabolic enzyme gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP). GGTP is heavily concentrated in the liver cells, and as such is critical for the biosynthesis of glutathione via the gamma glutamyl cycle. GGTP is a magnesium-dependent metabolic enzyme. Magnesium is a catalyst for GSH synthesis.

Much is discussed regarding elevated levels of GGTP, such as biliary tract obstruction and liver cell damage. However decreased levels of GGTP should also be discussed as being a significant factor, indicating possible magnesium and GSH insufficiencies. Decreased GGTP values (typically 10 U/L or less) may reveal a depression of Mg and GSH.

Sources:

http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/009841099157566#preview

http://ajrccm.atsjournals.org/content/162/4/1539

www.ajcn.org/content/25/11/1174.full.pdf

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006291X96907937

Athletic Performance, Nutrition & Health: How Athletes Can Become Depleted & Unhealthy

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 19:25:37 -0700

Experience has demonstrated to me that excessive-athletic training can be depleting to the body through a number of mechanisms. It is for this reason that in my nutritional consulting practice I recommend maximizing one's nutrition practice before engaging in athletic programs. If you are someone who is physically active and engage in regular athletic performance, consider that by maximizing your nutrition practice, you can not only maximize your performance, but you will protect and prevent many of the problems encountered by other athletes.

This article is going to discuss two primary factors that appear in people who may be engaging in excessive athletic activity: electrolyte depletion and excessive catabolism.

It is frightening that many athletes want to get down to very low body fat and body weight. It is common practice in some athletic circles to intentionally dehydrate oneself to meet certain body weight requirements for competition, or to achieve that cut physique appearance. I remember in high school, the wrestlers spitting all day long in order to get down to body weight. This type of training never appealed to me, partly because it doesn't seem healthy, and also because I consider health to be more important than ego driven athletic performance.

Electrolyte & Mineral Depletion

Sweating is beneficial to the body for a number of reasons: sweating is the result of increased circulation, increased body heat, and sweat is also a secondary elimination pathway for toxic metals such as mercury and lead. Some studies even demonstrated that sweat can increase the excretion of certain toxic metals in greater amounts than urinary excretion.

Research indicates that sweating results in the loss of nutrient minerals as well, particularly sodium, chloride, manganese, zinc, iron and copper. Excessive sweating can induce mineral and electrolyte depletion.

Sodium, Chloride, Zinc, HCL & Digestion

Gastric acid is made primarily from hydrogen, sodium, chloride and zinc. A basic blood chemistry test will reveal the status of electrolyte activity. It is quite common for high performance athletes who sweat excessively to be depleted of the cationic and anionic derivatives of gastric acid. Additionally, blood chemistry factors which involve zinc status, such as the enzyme alkaline phosphatase (ALP) are also commonly low among athletes.

It is no surprise that many athletes have digestion-related issues.

Sodium is an essential electrolyte, which plays an important role with adrenal output. Zinc activates hundreds of enzyme reactions in the body, including those related to the production of digestive enzymes, glucose homeostasis and androgenic sex hormones such as testosterone.

Excessive training can place a load on the adrenal gland's output of cortisol. If mineral levels are depleted and are not appropriately replenished, a concomitant cascade of digestive malfunction coupled with a loss of hormone synthesis and HPA axis dysfunction can ensue.

At this point the athletic individual may not be obtaining the results he/she wishes to be obtaining and not understand why. Continuing with the excessive workout regimen, the individual continues to break down tissue and lose essential nutrients through sweat and urinary excretion. At a certain point, the system breaks down and can't handle the demand for energy production in the cells. So much for health and athletics.

This is an example of what could happen in one instance of athletic depletion.

Catabolism & Weight Training

Catabolism is the metabolic process of breakdown. According to research, catabolism involves the release of certain immune-mediated, pro-inflammatory fatty acids, such as leukotriene and E2 prostaglandin. When released by immune cells, these fatty acids oxidize with incredible speed generating free radical activity. The breakdown of tissue ensues.

When a person lifts a heavy load of weight, muscle fibers are being broken down, which is catabolic. When there is excessive catabolism, cells are highly permeable. As a result, the intracellular potassium may leak into serum causing elevated blood levels of potassium.

Common clinical findings among those with excessive muclse breakdown are elevated levels of the enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT). ALT functions to transport ammonia from muscle degeneration to the liver. Oftentimes if this enzyme is elevated, there may be other indicators of liver distress, such as elevated Bilirubin values, or low levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

Cholesterol and triglycerides both have regenerative, "anabolic" effects in the body. All muscles burn triglycerides as a fuel source. If digestive issues are present, dietary fats may not be well synthesized, and as such may be poorly converted into triglycerides.

A common clinical finding among individuals with excessive catabolism are low levels of cholesterol, and sometimes triglycerides. Remember that it is cholesterol which serves as the primary precursor to ALL of the steroidal hormones, such as cortisol, DHEA, estrogen and testosterone.

So for athletes breaking down excessive muscle fiber through weight training, remember that a slip into a catabolic state, and/or electrolyte depletion can become very harmful. Therefore, improving upon anabolic functions and electrolyte status by supplying the body with the raw materials for health is essential.

Phospholipids For Tissue Repair & Regeneration

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 09:22:53 -0700

I remember first hearing about the benefits of consuming high amounts of phospholipid-rich foods when two colleagues of mine reported that eating 6-12 raw eggs daily resulted in significant health improvement in people suffering from multiple sclerosis and Crohn's Disease. My interest in phospholipid-rich foods was piqued, because both of these conditions are autoimmune in nature, and as such result in high amounts of tissue destruction and inflammation.

Phospholipids are one of the primary constituents of all cellular membranes. Some of the key biological functions of phospholipids include acting as secondary signal transducers in cells. Additionally, phospholipids are emulsifiers, which allow lipids and fluids to disperse evenly, and as such facilitates smoother transport across cell compartments.

Some of the most common phospholipids are the choline-phosphatides such as sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine.

Sphingomyelin is a special phospholipid that is found in high concentrations in myelin sheath, the encasement of nerve tissue, as well as in nerve cell fibers. It is the myelin sheath that degenerates in multiple sclerosis. Very recent research on phosphatidylcholine has demonstrated its potent anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its unique therapeutic effects in inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Other studies on phosphatidylcholine have shown its protective effect on hepatitis A, B and C.

Other phospholipids, such as phosphatidylserine have demonstrated anti-stress effects, memory and mood-improving effects. This phospholipid is often recommended to reduce high levels of cortisol, especially at nightime. Studies suggest that phosphatidylserine may have a strong benefit on the HPA (hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal) axis, which regulates and orchestrates the stress response.

Food Sources Of Phospholipids

Egg yolks are very rich sources of phospholipids, as is cream and organic liver. Organic beef brain is likely the highest available source of phospholipids, although this once, traditionally consumed food is rarely appreciated or ingested anymore.

Soy lecithin is a common source of phospholipids, however there is question to its use due to the high amount of genetically modified soy, as well as the potential that most soy-derived lecithin may be hexane extracted.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2996791/?tool=pmcentrez

http://www.springerlink.com/content/ppkn825255085440/

http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10253890410001728379

Selenium Improves Kidney Function: Are You Deficient?

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 14:30:00 -0700

The trace mineral selenium (Se) is a very important component of the body's defense against toxicity. Studies conducted on selenium demonstrate its ability to influence the function of Glutathione, a powerful endogenously-produced antioxidant. Selenium is also essential for thyroid health. It is involved in the enzymatic conversion of T4 into the active T3 hormone. Selenium works as a synergist with vitamins E and C, working to scavenge free radicals and destroy harmful peroxides.

Selenium supplementation has been previously used for treatment of various forms of cancer, AIDS and thyroid diseases. Additional research on selenium supplementation shows that it has a protective and detoxifying effect upon kidney function, increasing creatinine clearance in test subjects, and improving glamerular filtration rate.

Additonal studies on selenium and renal function show that in rats given Se, vitamins E & C, there was a significant increase in renal Glutathione levels, and significant decreases in lipid peroxidation. Glutathione is one of the most ubiquitous and important antioxidants needed as a defense against all types of toxicity.

Individuals consuming foods from selenium-depleted soil may be at an increased risk for developing selenium deficiencies. It is known that the US's pacific northwest and eastern coasts tend to have selenium-depleted soils.

Foods richest in selenium include:

Brazil nuts
Liver & other organs
Seafood

Michael McEvoy has a private nutritional consulting practice. he works with clients nationally and internationally. Please contact him to learn more about his nutritional consulting services and programs.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18850353

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20692659

http://www.jrnjournal.org/article/S1051-2276%2897%2990041-8/abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2136132

Paleo Schmaleo: Its Called: "Eat Real Food"

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:23:20 -0700

Since "paleo" is the new diet fad, it seems everyone wants their stab at what paleo means to them. You now have vegan paleo, raw meat paleo, snack food paleo with rice protein (haha), canned salmon paleo, Japanese fruit paleo, chocolate-coffee junk food paleo, and even sugar, GMO soy and vegetable oil paleo. You have mega food and big agricultural corporations reeling in on the paleo cash cow. All of this leaves people wondering: "what is paleo"?

Once upon a time long before the paleo diet fad revolution, people used to eat real food. Believe it or not, there actually once were healthy cultures who subsisted on real food, free from diet fads, free from processed, packaged food. Everything was organically grown and raised, nothing was not organically grown and raised. Long ago, before monolithic corporations ruled the food chain and the earth, people readily consumed real, raw and unpasteurized milk. Animals were kept healthy and happy, free from their factory farm slave duties. The secrets of tilling and farming were passed down generation after generation. Children were raised strong and healthy.

Weston Price's research reveals what health was like in civilizations where the backbone of culture was not a federal agency-prescribed diet or a government subsidized ear of corn. People actually knew how to be healthy. Imagine that. There was no schooling for health needed. No degrees in nutrition, farming or food preparation.

The historical accounts of the healthiest indigenous people has long been forgotten. The wisdom of the people has been exchanged for monolithic chemical companies seizing control over food production, while sheepish humanity passively allowing the takeover to occur.

For the past 120 years, humans have not only been allowed to eat fake food, they've been encouraged to eat it. With the industrialization of agriculture came junk science that told people to stop consuming the foods which have been eaten for tens of thousands of years, and start consuming foods that never were, such as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, corn oil, soybean and other refined vegetable oils. With the soaring rise of heart disease, the agricultural monoliths were raking it in. Think of how much corn the US produces. And how much of those products and byproducts must be made into profit. Its amazing!

What Is Health?

The greatest benefit of the paleo fad is its name. The name "paleo" indicates something bigger, something more didactic. It is a sort of identity that people can latch onto: "paleolithic omnivores". "Paleo" is a heck of a lot better than the names of some of the other diet fads out there, for the sheer reason that it gets people to think about what they should be eating from a different perspective. "Paleo" asks its followers several crucial questions, such as:

Where is my food coming from?
What conditions were the animals I am consuming raised in? What were the animals fed?
What are the health repercussions for consuming factory farmed meat and GMO foods?
Why can't I purchase real, raw milk in my grocery store?
Why don't people ask more questions about what they are eating?

What is good about paleo is that it helps a lot of people to wake up to the reality of the food situation: specifically that people have been misled and lied to by government, humans have been conned by multinational corporations and the governments that are in bed with them, and that there are others in the paleo communities who share your views and are part of your pac.

So in order for health to be possible, I believe that individuals need to sort out, wrestle with, discard and adjust their inherited beliefs about what food and health is really about. The journey of health is a journey that only individuals can take.

Obviously, the more convoluted the paleo fad becomes, the more "cooks there are in the kitchen", the further "paleo diet" is from its origin or intended origin. When someone tells me that they eat "paleo" I really don't understand what they mean, because there are so many different interpretations of it.

In reality, there are really no names to any diet. There is only the individual's relationship to his/her food, and the knowledge derived from how that food affects his/her body, for better or for worse.

If calling that relationship "paleo" helps you to identify with something or someone, then all the better. But know that it is the quality of food, the relationship to the food and to the land the food was raised in that matters most. It seems anyone these days can call their way of eating "paleo". I prefer if you would just pass me the raw butter.

Michael McEvoy has a private nutritional consulting practice. He works with clients nationally and internationally. Please contact him to learn about his nutritional consulting services and programs.

The Value & Significance Of Nutritional Assessment Questionnaires

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 23:58:48 -0700

Some days I sift through piles of laboratory tests: blood test results, hair test results, saliva hormone test results and other types of functional laboratory assessments. This stuff has a lot of value to me. It helps to paint the picture of how an individual's body is functioning and performing nutritionally. Laboratory data and physiological test results that are correctly interpreted and understood can reveal certain key components as to where the major problems exist, as well as what parts or systems of the body to begin working on and improving function.

However, in my opinion, no matter how many lab tests and physiological tests are done, the picture is incomplete without the inclusion of in-depth questionnaires and specific intake data. That's right! Asking the right questions can, in many ways be of greater value than a pile of laboratory tests. Don't get me wrong, the value of laboratory data can be very important, but physiological testing is only telling a part of the story.

Nutritional Questionnaires: A Crash Course History

Some of the most influential clinicians of modern times created and placed major importance on the use of questionnaires and client intake data. Royal Lee, DDS, the founder of Standard Process, created a 200 question document that effectively identified the function of numerous glands, organs and systems of the body. Dr. Lee used this data as a primary starting point of "where to look" and how to design an individualized nutritional protocol for his patients.

Perhaps the greatest example of the client questionnaire, was the original form created by Dr. William Donald Kelley, the father of Metabolic Typing®. Dr. Kelley's initial questionnaire was more than 2,000 questions in length! In fact Metabolic Typing® has evolved from much of the clinical discoveries and the empirical research from Kelley's original questionnaire.

The current Healthexcel Metabolic Typing® evaluation is 120 questions in length and has been refined over the years to include and evaluate the most fundamentally important aspects of metabolic activity in the human body. I place such importance on this assessment, every one of my clients must do it.

The keen and highly insightful observations made by busy clinicians, who are working on the "front lines of battle", and "getting their hands dirty" are of immense value. These observations and unique insights are what inspire the creation of questionnaires and intake forms.

Creating and interepreting questionnaires takes craftsmenship and skillfullness. It also takes skill of how to group and categorize certain questions.

Questionnaires: Direct Experience Of Your Body

The major factor that makes questionnaires so important is that it is the individual providing information regarding the direct experience they have of their own body. This is much different than what one or two laboratory tests provide. A lab test is more like feedback from the body. The answers from the questionnaire are giving the clinician the firsthand experience that the person has of their body. In some instances, asking the right questions replaces the need for doing any laboratory testing at all. Many times, the results of a laboratory test end up confirming and validating the questionnaire.

And this confirmation is what is needed: clinical correlation of patient experience with what the lab test is saying. That's when you know you are on the right track.

For example: Let's say a blood test reveals a BUN level of 20, a chloride level of 99, and a sodium level of 137. This is an indication of poor electrolyte charge, as well as possible adrenal distress, and possible digestion issues. If the person reports having symptoms of abdominal bloating and esophageal reflux, there is a concise clinical correlation with the blood test results and the symptoms being reported. The issue of low chloride and sodium and a relatively high level of urea and nitrogenic waste (BUN of 20) are strongly indicative of low stomach acid production. The digestive symptoms being reported line up succinctly with the test results.

If on the person's questionnaire, there are several indicators of Adrenal Hypofunction (fatigue, low blood pressure, salt cravings), AND the blood test reveals low sodium, increased potassium, chances are strong low adrenal output is present.

The answers from the questionnaire provide clues. The lab test results often provide confirmation. So in the end, the lab test results and the questionnaires work succinctly.

Organ Meats: The Departure From Nutrient-Dense Foods: Impacts & Implications

Tue, 29 May 2012 20:29:20 -0700

"You're telling me I should eat more liver? Gross!" Such is the response from so many people today living in modern society. Long before the industrial revolution of food brought twinkees, processed junk foods, hydrogenated oils, margarine and factory farmed meat, the cuisine among cultures around the world included organ meats as a primary staple to the human diet. These once cherished and nutrient-dense foods nourished cultures for thousands of years. Nowadays, the powerfully nutrient-dense qualities of organ meats is all but forgotten. Many research and researchers would go as far as to say that the radical departure from consumption of nutrient dense foods is a primary factor for the development of degenerative diseases in modern, industrialized societies.

Furthermore, research into epigenetics may corroborate this and even lead to the hypothesis that the departure from nutrient dense foods has resulted in genetic damage through generations of nutritional deficiencies.

Organ meats such as liver, heart and kidney contain the highest concentrations of several nutrients.

How Prized Were Organ Meats To Traditional Cultures?

All that is needed is to read the ingredients of cultural cuisines from around the world and you will learn what foods have been staple to the human diet since time immemorial. Read the remarkable anthropological research conducted by Weston A. Price and learn about what foods indigenous cultures used to nourish healthy generation after generation.

Excerpt from Weston A. Price's 1939 classic: "Nutrition and Physical Degeneration":
"For the Indians living inside the Rocky Mountain Range in the far North of Canada, the successful nutrition for nine months of the year was largely limited to wild game, chiefly moose and caribou. During the summer months the Indians were able to use growing plants. During the winter some use was made of bark and buds of trees. I found the Indians putting great emphasis upon the eating of the organs of the animals, including the wall of parts of the digestive tract. Much of the muscle meat of the animals was fed to the dogs. It is important that skeletons are rarely found where large game animals have been slaughtered by the Indians of the North. The skeletal remains are found as piles of finely broken bone chips or splinters that have been cracked up to obtain as much as possible of the marrow and nutritive qualities of the bones. These Indians obtain their fat-soluble vitamins and also most of their minerals from the organs of the animals. An important part of the nutrition of the children consisted in various preparations of bone marrow, both as a substitute for milk and as a special dietary ration".

The robust health of the native cultures that Dr. Price studied many years ago is in direct contrast with the health of humans today in modern civilization. Non-existent to these cultures was degenerative disease. In contrast to so many people today, native diets produced people with healthy bone, dental and facial structures. Their appreciation for the sacredness of the land and the sacredness of the nutrition provided by their animals was much, much deeper than is held by modern civilizations today. For many of these indigenous people, food was even more than medicine, it was like their sacred religion. Native people would consume the entire animal - everything: hearts, brains, liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, bone and bone marrow, fat and connective tissue. Nothing would remain of the animal, no waste.

Most animals today are wasted. They are born and raised exclusively for their skeletal muscle. The most nourishing part of the animal: organs, bones and glands are wasted. They are wasted in favor of that Saturday night sirloin steak marinated in corn syrup-drenched barbecue sauce. Slow-cooked nutrient-dense organic liver is bypassed for that char broiled, over-cooked, pork loin drenched in beer, or deep fried in the ultra pathological partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

It is quite obvious that so few people today have appreciation for the nourishment provided by animals, a complete 180 degree turn from how native people viewed and respected their food, animals and their health.

With the industrial food revoultion brought food processing and mass marketing. The decline of organ meat consumption is a cultural void that reflects the shallowness of modern cuisines in favor of inferior alternatives.

Even if one were in favor of consuming organ meats, being able to obtain them from butchers and grocery stores in today's modern culture is often like finding a needle in a haystack. Occasionally you can find liver, almost always frozen. Rarely will you find other organ meats such as kidney, pancreas or brain. If you do in fact have a source for these foods, you are in a very small minority.

If you are able to find other organ meats, the cost is often so low, due to such a low demand: very sad.

We Have Reduced The Power Of Food To Taste & Cost

Most people don't appreciate or even realize that the food and nutrients that they put into their bodies are the primary biochemical fuel sources for all of the cells of the human body. The body makes energy from food. How many people choose their biochemical fuel based upon a food's nutritional value? Very few.

Most people choose their food based upon taste and cost. If a person is choosing their foods based upon taste and cost, they will likely not consume too many foods of nutritional value, and if they do, it may be accidental.

Why do people think that organ meats have such intense taste and flavor? Because they have been deprived of these foods their entire lives.

If people were "nutrition first" eaters, the consumption of organ meats would be top on the list. Even without the advancements of vitamin and nutrient identification, native cultures knew that organ meats were the most vital forms of nourishment for the attainment of optimal health, generation after generation.

Nutritional Profile Of Organ Meats

It is important to point out that what constitutes a vitamin is highly debatable. There are many known substances in foods that have very apparent nutritional value, however are not classified as vitamins by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. As an example, Vitamins such as E are known to contain far more factors than the industry label for Vitamin E: D-alpha tocopherol. It is now understood that vitamin E is part of a larger phospholipid complex, which extends far beyond D-alpha tocopherol.

Furthermore, the author of this blog posting does not take the RDA (recommended daily allowance) to be a serious or legitimate gauge for nutritional intake. However, the author has included the RDA as a means for baseline comparative investigation.

Organic Liver is one of the Richest Sources of (USDA %, 68 grams):

Vitamin A 431% (retinyl palmitate, beta carotene is not Vitamin A)
B-12 800%
Iron 25%
Vitamin D 30%
Copper 486%
Selenium 35%

Liver is also a very rich source of the following nutrients: Zinc, Manganese, Phosphorous, Folate, B-1, B-2, B-6, B-3, B-5, Protein.

Liver is loaded with minerals and B-vitamins. I find it interesting that many MD's, dietitians and most conventional nutritionists recommend pregnant or expectant women take a multi-vitamin containing synthetic, coal tar-derived vitamins, with special emphasis on folate. One serving of liver packs a very high amount of folate (RDA 43%) and extraordinarily high amounts of other essential nutrients, in a whole food form. Organic liver is one of nature's most powerful multivitamins.

Beef kidney contains an incredible nutritional profile (USDA %):

B-12 458 %
B-5 40%
Zinc 13%
B-1 33%
B-2 167%
Iron 26%
Vitamin A 28%
Vitamin C 16%

Heart is going to contain the following nutritional profile (85 grams, RDA%):

Heart is the richest dietary source of Coenzyme Q10, a powerful antioxidant
B-12 153%
Zinc 16%
Phosphorous 22%
Selenium 47%
Copper 24%
Iron 30%
All B complex vitamins

Pancreas was considered a very important organ meat for many cultures. Many alternative cancer therapies involve the ingestion of high doses of pancreatic enzymes. Would the ingestion of raw pancreas tissue facilitate this same benefit?

Beef Pancreas will contain (113 grams, RDA%):

B-12 264%
All other B-complex in significant amounts
Vitamin C 26%
Iron 14%
Selenium 40%
Phosphorous 37%
Zinc 19%

Beef brains contain a very high nutritional profile, including an astoundingly high amount of dietary cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol has little effect upon serum cholesterol values. Furthermore, the issue regarding cholesterol is poorly understood by most clinicians. Beef brain will contain (351 grams RDA%):

Cholesterol 2339%
Selenium 130%
Zinc 32%
Phosphorous 135%
Iron 43%
B-12 889%
Omega 3 fatty acids 3545%
Omega 6 fatty acids 2948%
Saturated fat 66%

Bone Marrow:

Natives and indigenous people placed great emphasis on consuming bone marrow. Bone marrow is a tremendous source of healthy, dietary fats as well as protein:

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic acid) has Powerful anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. Marrow contains very high amounts of CLA

Excellent Source of Essential Amino Acid Methionine
Contains Good Amount of DHA Omega 3

No 'One Size Fits All' Dietary Approaches

I do not advocate 'one size fits all' dietary approaches. I recognize biological individuality to be a fundamental factor in all people. Therefore, it is always advisable to understand that how one food behaves in one person's biochemistry, may not behave the same way in someone else's body.

It is important to address that not all people will derive benefit from organ meats, as the high purine content may deleteriously affect some individual biochemistries, due to specific metabolic imbalances and factors inherent in these people.

However, it is my belief that individuals who have an increased need for the nutrition found in organ meats may derive benefit by consuming them.

Sources:

Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, Price, DDS, 1939

http://nutritiondata.self.com

Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food, Shanahan, MD, 2009

The Dangers Of High Heat Cooking

Sun, 20 May 2012 09:02:32 -0700

Cooking foods at high temperatures can result in the production of numerous volatile carcinogens. Additionally, cooking foods at high temperatures can significantly denature the food that is about to enter your body, reducing its nutritive value. Several nutrients are extremely heat labile and this includes several amino acids and essential vitamins.

Barbeque & Frying

The age-old tradition of grilling is a very unhealthy way to consume your food. Grilling meats at high temperatures causes the formation of numerous, powerful, mutagenic (producing changes in DNA) and carcinogenic end products, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines. These end products are highly toxic and are cancer causing.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons form when fat drips onto charcoal, which induces smoke, which adheres to the cooked meat. Heterocyclic amines (HAC's) form when creatine reacts with amino acids. There has been identified 17 HAC's that are known to increase cancer risk.

Research has identified that carcinogenic HAC's from high-heat cooked meats may significantly increase the risk of numerous cancers including stomach, pancreatic, colorectal and breast.

AGE's

Marinades that include sugars of any type (such as in pasteurization of dairy), and cooking starch, at high heat may react during high heat cooking forming Advanced Glycation End Products (AGE's).

AGE's are compounds with potential carcinogenic effects in the body. They are one of several hundred volatile substances produced when food is heated at high temperatures. It is believed AGE's can also be produced from hyperglycemia, when there are elevated levels of glucose in the serum.

AGE's induce tissue damage through a process referred to as "cross linking". In the body, AGE formation is consistent when there are elevated levels of fructose in the diet. Next time you reach for a can of soda, consider the HFCS's (high fructose corn syrup) effect upon your body, and the resultant free radical activity and tissue destruction it may induce.

Cook Your Food At Low Temperatures

Cooking your food at very low temperatures has a number of benefits. First, low temperature cooking which involves low oven heat, searing food or crock pot cooking will contain extremely low or zero carcinogenic end products. Second, you will preserve more of the nutritional value of your food. This includes preservation of many heat labile amino acids such as methionine, taurine and cysteine.

Vitamins such as C and phytonutrients are also heat labile and will be destroyed during cooking.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2675035

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691598000611

http://carcin.oxfordjournals.org/content/16/1/39.short

June 1 Is Now Officially 'Alternative Healthcare Practitioner Day'

Fri, 18 May 2012 12:49:24 -0700

I am officially declaring June 1st "Alternative Healthcare Practitioner Day", in honor of all those who strive to improve the health of the world through the use of all modalities that are non-toxic. Alternative Healthcare Practitioners need to be recognized for their work, for their continuous and tireless contribution for the improvement of human health and for the betterment of civilization. Alternative Healthcare is a broad field, so the following list is the most broad for what constitutes Alternative Healthcare.

These include, but is not limited to:

Non-standardized, Non-Government Endorsed Nutrition
Chiropractic Care
Naturopathy
Truly Holistic Medical Care (not MD's who claim they offer "alternative care" and really are offering no such alternatives)
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Herbology
Holistic, Biological Dentistry
Homeopathy
Corrective Exercise
Fitness Training
Life Coaching
Qi Gong & Associated Martial Disciplines
Ayurveda
Yoga & Meditation
Healers & Spiritual Guides
Biofeedback & Neurofeedback
Massage Therapy & Bodywork
Holistically-Oriented Psychology& Psychiatry

It is important to honor those practitioners who are saving lives, and improving the quality of life all over the planet, through modalities that are safer and more effective than what is being offered by the "standard of care".

Alternative Healthcare Practitioners know the value of their approach, and so many of these practitioners have amazing success with their patients and clients. Many of these practitioners give tirelessly and are underpaid for their great service to humanity; whose passion is to empower not to invoke fear, to educate not to invoke ignorance, to inspire rather than create subservience.

This day of recognition is to those practitioners who persevered in their work despite public attacks by government and corporate enterprises, who overcame persecutions and blacklisting, who had their licenses revoked for unjust reasons, who persisted in their dedicated work despite the efforts to suppress them.

June 1 is to recognize and honor the vast knowledge passed on through thousands of years of traditions such as in the case of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Ayurveda. June 1 is the day to honor the current and developing unfoldment of human health, and to recognize all of those who inspire and heal.

Minerals: Electrolytes, Blood Sugar, Hormones & Antioxidants

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:07:28 -0700

Minerals are the pervasive and ubiquitous catalysts for cellular functions. Some minerals function to increase the electrical potential of cells. Other minerals function as metalloenzymes, which then can act as enzyme reactors in cells, signal transducers and messengers. In human nutrition, minerals play pivotal roles in the body's multitude of functions. Aberrations in mineral activity, and nutrient mineral deficiencies are common among degenerative conditions.

Minerals As Electrolytes

Primary electrolytes are sodium, potassium, magnesium, sulfate, phosphate, calcium and chloride. Intrinsic relationships between certain minerals play very important roles in how sufficiently energy is generated by cells. For example, the ratio between sodium and potassium is primary for the electrical conductivity of cell membranes. This ratio can be used in many ways to identify functions of adrenal activity, digestion and hormone synthesis as well.

Magnesium is an essential activator of more than 300 enzyme reactions in the body. Magnesium must be present in order for the body to generate ATP, or biological energy. Magnesium is required for glucose metabolism, and is essential for normal insulin response. Magnesium is essential to reduce excessive sympathetic stress, for normal bowel function, and is essential for skeletal system health.

The ratio between calcium and phosphorous has been studied extensively by nutritional pioneers Page, DDS and Hawkins, DDS. Both found that when phosphorous levels were decreased, calcium tended to precipitate out of body fluids, where it could then accumulate in bodily tissues.

The electrolytes chloride and sodium aid in the stabilization of blood pH. Both of these electrolytes are required in order for the stomach cells to produce hydrochloric acid. Deficiencies in sodium can result in low blood pressure, problems synthesizing hormones, and digestive issues.

Minerals & Blood Sugar Handling

The trace minerals chromium and vanadium have important roles to play in glucose metabolism in the body. Both of these trace minerals have been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, and thus may play a very important role in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Magnesium is required for three critical enzymatic reactions in glucose metabolism: pyruvate carboxylase, phosphoenol-pyruvate carboxykinase and fructose 1,6 biphosphatase. Additionally, magnesium plays key enzymatic roles in various hormones which have a regulatory effect upon gluconeogenesis, namely insulin, glucagon, adrenaline and cortisol. Magnesium deficiency can negatively affect the functionality and production of the hormones of the pancreas, namely insulin and glucagon.

Aberrations in adrenal gland and stress hormone activity may directly and negatively affect glucose levels and vice versa.

Minerals & Hormones

Zinc and copper both are critical for normal hormone synthesis. Zinc is an activator of 200 enzyme reactions in the body, is required for pituitary gonadotrophin, and is needed for testosterone synthesis. Copper functions as a stimulant for several neurotransmitters and is closely related to estrogen. There are existing correlations between estrogen dominance and copper toxicity.

The mineral iodine is pivotal for thyroid hormone synthesis. Deficiencies of iodine are known to play a role in some thyroid conditions. Deficiencies in iodine result in decreased concentrations of T3 and T4.

Minerals & Antioxidants

Certain minerals are required for the body's production of endogenous antioxidants. The most important, endogenously-produced antioxidants are: glutathione, alpha lipoic acid, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), CoQ10.

The trace mineral selenium is critical for glutathione production. It serves as a sulfhydrl agent and assists glutathione utilization. About 30% of selenium in the body is bound to glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione is the body's most ubiquitous and concentrated endogenous antioxidant. Selenium also assists the antioxidant capabilities of Vitamin E, scavenging peroxides, and protecting cell membranes. Selenium has a powerful affect on all aspects of immune system function, including cell mediated responses, lymphocyte sub classes as well as enhancing the function of neutrophils. Selenium has been demonstrated to improve kidney function by increasing GFR (glomerular filtration rate) as well as significantly improving the clearance of creatinine from the kidneys.

The trace mineral manganese is essential for the synthesis of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant that plays an important defensive role in all cells exposed to oxygen. Oxygen induces reactive oxygen species (ROS's), which are free radicals that destroy cells and tissues. Also essential for SOD synthesis are the minerals zinc and copper.

Mineral Deficiencies

Much has been written regarding mineral deficiencies. A lot of this can be attributed to soil depletion due to large-scale commercial farming practices. Other causes of mineral deficiencies may be due to poor organ and glandular functions, toxicity, the interference of certain medications and poor dietary habits.

Magnesium deficiency is considered to be an epidemic by many. This may be due to depleted soil magnesium levels, as well as the long term use of certain medications such as PPI's (proton pump inhibitors). PPI's have shown in several studies to reduce and significantly inhibit the assimilation of magnesium and iron due to the inhibiting effect PPI's have on stomach acid (HCL) production.

Several minerals are particularly dependent upon sufficient levels of HCL: calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, chromium. Hypochlorhydria is a condition where there are chronically low levels of stomach acid. Due to the essential roles magnesium and calcium play in bone and skeletal health, hypochlorhydria and longterm PPI use is strongly associated with the development of osteoporosis.

Diets that are deficient in essential minerals will quite easily result in systemic mineral deficiencies. If an individual has digestion and assimilative dysfunction due to mucosal barrier breakdown, or villus atrophy, this could also lead to a deficiency of certain minerals.

Food Sources Of Minerals

It is known that organically grown vegetables have a higher concentration of minerals and trace minerals than conventionally grown produce.

Potassium is found abundantly in virtually all plant foods, especially vegetables and fruits. Most notable sources of potassium are avocados, spinach and kiwi. Sodium and chloride are found naturally in sea salts as well as in food sources such as celery and zucchini.

Magnesium is found in many food sources such as dark green vegetables such as kale, spinach, collard greens, as well as in nuts and seeds and whole grains. Magnesium is one particular mineral that is believed to have suffered the effects of soil depletion due to industrial agricultural practices.

Calcium is found abundantly in dairy foods, especially in cheeses. Calcium is also found in very high amounts in sesame seeds, broccoli and spinach. Phosphorous is found abundantly in beef, eggs, fish and mostly in animal proteins.

Zinc is found in significant amounts in red meat, some dairy, organ meats, oysters, pumpkin seeds. Copper is found in high amounts in soybeans, legumes, fish, vegetables, liver and nuts and seeds. Selenium is found in significant amounts in Brazil nuts, oysters, tuna, mackerel, lobster, organ meats. Selenium is believed to be deficient in certain soils.

Iodine is found primarily in see vegetation such as nori, kelp and wakame, as well as in fish and seafood.

Chromium is found in egg yolk, liver, oysters, wheat germ. Manganese is found in considerable concentrations in cinnamon, clove, egg yolk, nuts and seeds and some fruits such as blueberries and avocados.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2517451

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1051227697900418

http://ajrccm.atsjournals.org/content/165/3/320.full

Understand Inflammation & Free Radical Activity: Effects & Solutions

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:50:39 -0700

Oxidative stress has been identified as a primary cause of free radical activity and the development of numerous degenerative conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's. Free radicals are any atom or molecule with an unpaired electron. Unregulated free radical activity is a primary cause of cell destruction.

Inflammation

Inflammation is the body's way of initiating healing responses. However, inflammation that is unregulated can result in excessive free radical activity and tissue destruction. Immune signaling is one of the primary mechanisms for initiating the inflammatory pathways. One of the most notable immune-signaling molecules are cytokines.

Cytokines are signaling proteins that orchestrate intracellular communication. Cytokines include the large family of interleukins, interferons and TNF's (tumor necrosis factors). Cytokines are responsible for triggering cell apoptosis (death) as well as inflammatory cascades.

High levels of cytokine activity such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a), has shown to damage insulin-signaling, and is implicated in the development of insulin resistance, type II diabetes and a wide variety of disease processes.

Cytokines trigger the phospholipase A2 inflammatory pathways, 5-LOX and 5-COX. TNF-a stimulates the stress response, by activation of the HPA axis. TNF-a also has shown to activate leukotriene production. Leukotriene's are the virulent and pathological fatty acids which result in free radical activity and tissue destruction.

In my presentation on autoimmune conditions, I discussed the role of nutritional factors that have shown in studies to inhibit TNF-a, leukotriene activity and subsequent free radical activity.

Types Of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are of pivotal significance for the prevention of harmful free radical activity. Antioxidants are either exogneously obtained from diet, or they are endogenously produced. An antioxidant is any molecule that can inhibit the oxidation of other molecules. Examples of antioxidants derived from diet are Vitamins E (tocopherols, tocotrienols), A, C, polyphenols, catechins, carotenoids, certain phytonutrients.

The most significant, endogenously-produced antioxidants are: Uric Acid, Glutathione, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Catalyse, Superoxide Disumtases, CoQ10. Many researchers would argue that Cholesterol is also an antioxidant, as cholesterol has been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory fatty acids such as leukotriene.

In fact, cholesterol is powerfully anti-inflammatory and is of critical importance in order for the body to regulate inflammation and free radical activity. Low cholesterol values are associated with a number of degenerative conditions, including many types of inflammatory autoimmune conditions.

Markers Of Inflammation: Insulin, CRP

One of the primary markers of inflammation is hyperinsulinism. It has been demonstrated in medical literature for many years that hyperinsulinism is a primary factor associated with the development of cardiovascular disease. Increased levels of insulin are strongly associated with a diet high in sugars and carbohydrates.

Insulin has demonstrated in studies to increase TNF-a and the initiation of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Insulin is associated with increased levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP). CRP is a protein synthesized by the liver and is a primary marker for inflammation. Studies have shown that trans fatty acid consumption (from sources such as fast foods) increases CRP levels by an average of 73%.

Regulation of Inflammation Through Nutritional Intervention

First and foremost one's diet should be in harmony with one's type of metabolism. As a nutritional consultant who has worked with many, many people, I have witnessed the effects that varying diets have on people's health, for better and for worse. There are no 'one size fits all' dietary approaches.

I have witnessed how a diet high in purine-rich red meat can resolve hyperglycemia and diabetes type II. Conversely, I have watched how this exact diet can actually increase insulin resistance and hyperglycemia in someone else.

The answer to the question: "how can this be possible?" is best understood as the effect of biochemical individuality. When certain aspects of metabolism become de-regulated and imbalanced to such a degree, there becomes an increased demand for certain foods and nutrients. Foods that are non-harmonious to these de-regulated metabolic states, can actually feed the existing metabolic imbalance.

Take for example someone with diabetes type II, whose sympathetic nervous system is over-reactive, and as such is the 'dominant imbalanced' aspect of their metabolism. Consumption of purine-containing red meat will only further drive the sympathetic response, increasing glucose and likely cortisol. Someone with a 'dominant sympathetic metabolic imbalance' will thrive on a diet high in low starch vegetables and smaller amounts of very lean protein.

In an opposite situation, a type II diabetic with a dominant "parasympathetic metabolic imbalance" MUST consume purine-rich red meat frequently, in order create metabolic efficiency. For such an individual, consuming a diet that is high in vegetables and low in protein will not result in the resolution of hyperglycemia, and in fact may actually make matters worse!

It is important to point out that these are not opinions, these are observations I have made based upon close analysis.

Regulating Inflammation & The Gut

Research has shown that inflammation very often involves gut immune dysregulation. T-Helper cells in the gut play a very important role in modulating immune signaling. Inflammatory conditions such as autoimmune activation often feature intestinal dysbiosis and concomitant chronic infections. Therefore, nutritional strategies that work to improve upon gut function and GI immunity may prove to be pivotal in reducing and normalizing inflammatory responses.

Systemic, proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain, pancreatin and serrapeptase all possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have sufficiently demonstrated that bromelain inhibits TNF-a as well as PG2 prostaglandin and the inflammatory thromboxanes.

Herbal botanicals such as boswellia, willow bark and curcumin all have been shown as potent inhibitors of inflammatory pathways.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega 3 possess an ability to inhibit PG2 prostaglandin synthesis, but have also shown to generate free radicals and loss of vitamin E. Use of omega 3 fatty acids are best titrated according to the needs of an individual.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10934206

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11756405

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002934399800564

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/135/3/562.short

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18695473

http://www.dmsjournal.com/content/2/1/30

http://ncp.sagepub.com/content/23/1/49.abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18569070