{"id":1808,"date":"2017-10-03T20:54:15","date_gmt":"2017-10-03T20:54:15","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/uni-vite.iconsdg.com\/?page_id=1808"},"modified":"2017-11-21T15:41:21","modified_gmt":"2017-11-21T15:41:21","slug":"a-z-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/uni-vite.com\/supplements\/a-z-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"A-Z QUESTIONS"},"content":{"rendered":"
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A-Z QUESTIONS<\/span><\/h1>\n

Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Health Defence\u00e2\u20ac\u009d.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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100 YEARS OLD - Can we really ever live healthily until 100 YEARS OLD?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: A few people already achieve this! The real question is whether\u00a0we can make this option more widely available. There is a great deal\u00a0of evidence to suggest that we can do this via enhanced nutrition, which\u00a0can slow the appearance of many of the signs of ageing \u2014 such as\u00a0the run-down of the immune system, or the furring of arteries.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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A-Z MULTI-VITAMIN - I take an A-Z MULTI-VITAMIN daily. Is this all I need?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: NO. I believe that the whole A to Z concept is a bit of a con-trick,\u00a0as the implicit promise is that they will give you all you need. That\u00a0just isn\u2019t true.<\/p>\n<p>A to Z\u2019s generally contain the RDAs (Recommended Daily Allowances)\u00a0of the vitamins and minerals that have RDAs \u2014 but RDAs are designed\u00a0to prevent deficiency diseases (such as scurvy, beriberi and pellagra);\u00a0they are not high enough to give you the best chance of long-term health.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps even more worryingly, we now know of many new micronutrients\u00a0that are critically important to protect your health \u2014 such as\u00a0lutein, lycopene, isoflavones, Omega 3 oils and prebiotic fibres \u2014\u00a0but these do not yet have RDA values, so are not included at all.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ACNE - My teenage son suffers terribly from ACNE? Is there anything I can include in his diet that might help him?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Diet is not primarily responsible for acne, but the following combination\u00a0seems to be useful in some cases: Omega 3 oils, combined with Vitamins\u00a0C and E, and high dose flavonoids (ginger, turmeric or bilberry). This\u00a0provides a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, and may also reduce the\u00a0effect of testosterone on the sebaceous cysts which are involved in\u00a0the acne eruptions. Silicic acid applied topically has also been reported\u00a0to be helpful.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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AGEING - Is it possible to slow the AGEING PROCESS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: UNDOUBTEDLY. Many of the signs of the ageing process (furring of\u00a0the arteries, thinning of bone, the run-down of the immune system, etc)\u00a0are nothing to do with ageing itself, but are caused by progressively\u00a0worsening nutrition; eating habits, and nutritional status are well\u00a0known to deteriorate with age. Intensive micro-nutritional support can\u00a0slow and even reverse many of the symptoms of ageing.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ALZHEIMER\u2019S DISEASE - I\u2019ve read aluminium cookware could be at the root of ALZHEIMER\u2019S DISEASE, is this true? What can I eat or take to lower my risk?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Aluminium is not the only or even the most important cause of Alzheimer\u2019s.<\/p>\n<p>However, it is in principle a good thing to reduce your exposure to\u00a0aluminium, as certain forms of this mineral are very toxic to the brain\u00a0\u2014 and anything that kills brain cells will contribute to reduced\u00a0brain function. Therefore, do not cook acid fruits in aluminium saucepans\u00a0\u2014 the bright metal which shows after cooking shows just how much\u00a0aluminium has been dissolved, and eaten!<\/p>\n<p>If the drinking water in your area is surface water (ie from rivers\u00a0or lakes), then consider a silicic acid supplement. This binds to aluminium\u00a0salts and turns them into aluminium silicates \u2014 or sand.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ARTHRITIS - What can I take to prevent or treat ARTHRITIS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: A combination of anti-inflammatory agents such as turmeric, ginger\u00a0or MSM (methylsulphonylmethane); with cartilage builders glucosamine\u00a0hydrochloride and manganese. To protect against developing rheumatoid\u00a0arthritis, try to reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections (see\u00a0<a href="https:\/\/nutrishield.com\/introduction-to-health-defence-by-dr-paul-clayton\/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Defence<\/a> for details). You can do this by incorporating cranberry\u00a0juice into your daily regime.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ASTHMA - Is there anything I can do to control my ASTHMA?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Yes. You need a variety of anti-inflammatory agents, and I would\u00a0include fish oils (which must be combined with Vitamins E and C), turmeric\u00a0and ginkgo. These will help to make the airways less twitchy; and once\u00a0the inflammation has been dampened, a lecithin preparation may give\u00a0additional help. Finally, the smooth muscle of the airways can be made\u00a0to relax somewhat by switching from salt to low-sodium, high magnesium\/potassium\u00a0salt.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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BALANCED DIET - Are supplements really necessary if I eat a BALANCED DIET?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: YES. Unless you are a full-time athlete, you can\u2019t eat enough\u00a0food to provide sufficiently high levels of all the micronutrients you\u00a0need. Government surveys carried out in America and Europe show that\u00a0the vast majority of people don\u2019t even get the RDAs of all the\u00a0vitamins and minerals from their diet \u2014 and are therefore suffering\u00a0from multiple micronutrient depletion.<\/p>\n<p>If you eat a lot of processed foods, and\/or smoke, or are elderly or\u00a0diabetic, you are likely to be even more malnourished.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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Is BETAINE a mineral or vitamin and what is it for?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Betaine is not a classical vitamin, although it has many vitamin-like\u00a0qualities, and for that reason is sometimes known as Vitamin B10. Basically\u00a0an amino acid, and one which occurs in many foods (although generally\u00a0at low levels), this compound is the most effective methyl group donor\u00a0known. For this reason it is added to pig and cattle feed to give the\u00a0animals all-round protection against stresses and toxins.<\/p>\n<p>From our point of view, the ability of betaine to reduce homocysteine\u00a0levels makes it an essential component in any nutraceutical\u00a0programme designed to protect against coronary artery disease, Alzheimer\u2019s\u00a0and probably osteoporosis as well.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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BLOOD PRESSURE - What is the best way to prevent or treat HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Lose weight if overweight. Switch from table salt to a potassium-based\u00a0salt substitute. High dose flavonoids will, over a period of several\u00a0weeks, restore your arteries\u2019 normal ability to dilate, lowering\u00a0blood pressure further.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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BONES - I take a CALCIUM supplement. Will this protect my BONES in old age?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Calcium on its own \u2013 or even when combined with magnesium and\u00a0Vitamin D \u2013 is not very effective at preserving bones.<\/p>\n<p>To gain better protection, you need to combine these minerals with\u00a0a number of other micronutrients, including Vitamins K, C and B6; the\u00a0minerals copper, zinc and manganese; and the amino sugar glucosamine\u00a0hydrochloride. In my opinion glucosamine hydrochloride is preferable\u00a0to the sulphate form.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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CANCER - How does one lower the risk of developing PROSTATE CANCER?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Increase your intake of tomatoes, soy and Brazil nuts. In terms\u00a0of supplements, take the carotenoid lycopene, the soy isoflavones, and\u00a0the mineral selenium; all of which are linked to a reduced risk of this\u00a0particularly unpleasant form of cancer.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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CANCER - Which vitamins and minerals should I be taking to lower my risk of getting CANCER?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Include anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C, E, and the minerals selenium,\u00a0copper, zinc and manganese. Carotenes such as lycopene (tomatoes) and\u00a0alpha carotene (mangoes, carrots) isoflavones such as genistein (soy),\u00a0prebiotics (FOS) and inulin. Also sulphur compounds in vegetables such\u00a0as broccoli and kale.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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CANCER - Is there anything one should eat or take once diagnosed with CANCER?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Many studies show that higher intakes of various micronutrients\u00a0are associated with a reduced risk of various cancers, but there is\u00a0relatively little information on the efficacy of nutraceutical programs\u00a0in cancer. One exception to this are a couple of trials in which the\u00a0carotenoid lycopene was given to men with prostate cancer \u2014 with\u00a0positive results. Another clinical trial will shortly proceed in the\u00a0UK, giving an advanced nutraceutical programme to patients with a particular\u00a0form of cancer, but this is still at a very early stage.<\/p>\n<p>However, some micronutrients have been shown to have anti-cancer effects\u00a0in various animal models of cancer, and in in-vitro systems.<\/p>\n<p>Given the safety of these micronutrients, if I was diagnosed with cancer,\u00a0I would personally take the following : lycopene, genistein, selenium,\u00a0berry flavonoids, and high dose Q10.<\/p>\n<p>Beyond this it is hard to make recommendations, as cancers in different\u00a0sites may respond to different interventions; for example, in the case\u00a0of colo-rectal cancer, I would personally consider taking a prebiotic\u00a0which is broken down in the colon to produce butyrate, a compound with\u00a0significant anti-cancer effects.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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CHOCOLATE - I\u2019ve read that CHOCOLATE is supposed to be good for you, surely this is not true?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Depends on the chocolate. Dark chocolate (the good stuff) contains\u00a0flavonoid compounds known as cocoa red, similar to the flavonoids in\u00a0red wine or green tea. These molecules are cardio-protective and vaso-protective.\u00a0Milk chocolate contains less of these valuable molecules, and white\u00a0chocolate is a flavonoid-free zone. Don\u2019t forget the calories though!<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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I take COD LIVER OIL supplement for my joints. Is there anything else I can do?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: YES. Cod liver oil tastes bad enough to seem like a medicine, but\u00a0it is an old-fashioned and relatively ineffective remedy.<\/p>\n<p>Omega 3 fish oils are more powerfully anti-inflammatory, as are many\u00a0of the flavonoid preparations. To actually rebuild the damaged joint(s),\u00a0you should look at glucosamine (the hydrochloride form), together with\u00a0manganese. Many people find that MSM can also help.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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Co Q10 - What is Co Q10? Is it a vitamin?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Strictly speaking, Q10 is not a vitamin because we can produce it\u00a0in the body, where it is essential for energy production and is also\u00a0a key anti-oxidant. However, as we age our ability to make Q10 is reduced\u00a0(as also happens after liver damage.) In these circumstances the shortfall\u00a0in Q10 can contribute to many health problems, and accordingly a Q10\u00a0supplement may confer significant health benefits.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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COMBINATIONS OF NUTRIENTS that shouldn\u2019t be taken together<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: With very few exceptions, micronutrients work best in combination\u00a0\u2014 and most people are so malnourished they need more than one micronutrient\u00a0anyway. Micronutrients are not like drugs (ie \u2018magic bullets\u2019,\u00a0best used as monotherapies); instead, they are best used in combinations\u00a0specifically designed to rectify the complex metabolic imbalances which\u00a0are the main cause of the degenerative diseases.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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DIABETES - Is there anything I can do to help myself?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Cut down on potatoes, confectionery and baked goods (breads, cakes,\u00a0biscuits). Switch to less refined carbohydrate foods, ie beans, pulses,\u00a0coarse flours and oat products. If you need sweetness, switch from sugar\u00a0to oligofructose, and intense sweeteners such as aspartame and xylitol.\u00a0Stop smoking!<\/p>\n<p>Take Vitamins C and E, a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement,\u00a0and high dose flavonoids to prevent excessive glycosylation (damage)\u00a0to proteins in the arteries, kidneys and lenses of the eye. Try chromium\u00a0also, which may help reduce sugar cravings in some cases. Finally, take\u00a0more exercise, or alternatively try a cold exposure programme. (See\u00a0Brown Fat, on this website).<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ECZEMA - Is there anything I can take for my ECZEMA?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: A difficult question, as it depends on the cause of the eczema.\u00a0However, try a combination of anti-inflammatory agents (such as high\u00a0dose turmeric, with fish oil and the anti-oxidant vitamins). In some\u00a0cases, additional glucosamine hydrochloride supplements may offer further\u00a0benefits.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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Are EGGS really bad for you?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: No. It was formerly thought that the cholesterol in eggs made them\u00a0a heart hazard, but it is now known that the cholesterol they contain\u00a0boosts levels of the good form of cholesterol in the body, namely HDL\u00a0cholesterol; which is cardio-protective.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, the deep coloration of organic eggs indicates that they\u00a0contain carotenes, valuable micronutrients that protect our health in\u00a0many ways.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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EYESIGHT - Are there any nutrients I should be taking to safeguard my EYESIGHT?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: YES. There is good evidence that both cataracts and macular degeneration\u00a0are largely due to free radical damage, and therefore appropriate anti-oxidant\u00a0supplements are recommended. Lutein has had a lot of publicity, but\u00a0should on no account be used on its own. It should always be combined\u00a0with Vitamin C, riboflavin, and the anti-oxidant minerals zinc, copper,\u00a0selenium and manganese. In advanced cases, or in cases of diabetic retinopathy,\u00a0berry flavonoids should also be included.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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FIBRE CEREALS - Why should I eat HIGH FIBRE CEREALS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Whole grain cereals are now known to reduce the risk of coronary\u00a0artery disease, and everyone knows a higher fibre diet helps to prevent\u00a0constipation. Some of the cereals (especially oats) also provide prebiotic\u00a0fibres; and are in general a good source of B vitamins. They also have\u00a0anti-oxidant activity, although it is not yet known whether the anti-oxidant\u00a0elements in fibres offer health benefits.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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FREE RADICALS - I\u2019ve heard the term FREE RADICALS. What are they?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Free radicals are reactive particles, which can be atoms or molecules.\u00a0If these are formed inside the body, they can attack cells and tissues,\u00a0damaging and destroying them in a way which is now strongly linked to\u00a0the development of various disease states. We can reduce the damaging\u00a0effect of free radicals by neutralising them both with anti-oxidant\u00a0enzymes, and anti-oxidant compounds such as Vitamins C and E, the flavonoids\u00a0etc.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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GARLIC - Why is GARLIC so good for you ?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Garlic has a long tradition of medicinal use, and there is some\u00a0scientific data which backs this up. A combination of various effects\u00a0(including a slight reduction in LDL cholesterol, some anti-oxidant\u00a0activity, and a reduction of platelet stickiness) would seem to offer\u00a0a degree of cardio-protection \u2014 although this has never actually\u00a0been proven.<\/p>\n<p>The other effects so often cited (anti-bacterial, anti-viral, etc)\u00a0almost certainly do not occur at normally ingested doses. But apart\u00a0from that, it tastes great.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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GLUCOSAMINE - What is GLUCOSAMINE? Should everyone take it?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A; Glucosamine is involved in tissue repair; so anyone practising contact\u00a0sports may want to take this to speed recovery from injury. In addition,\u00a0it is involved in the regeneration of cartilage \u2014 so arthritics\u00a0often gain benefits with glucosamine. Our ability to make glucosamine\u00a0in the body slows down after the age of 40 or thereabouts, so a prophylactic\u00a0glucosamine hydrochloride supplement can slow or even prevent the emergence\u00a0of arthritis.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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GRAPESEED EXTRACT - Should I take it?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: This is a rich source of flavonoids, which have a variety of health\u00a0benefits. Cardio- and vaso-protection is combined with anti-inflammatory\u00a0and a degree of anti-cancer effects. If you suffer from a chronic inflammatory\u00a0condition, this is one product that you should try. (It is a cheaper\u00a0equivalent to Pycnogenol, the pine bark extract).<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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HEART CONDITION - I am 50 and have been diagnosed with a HEART CONDITION. Is it too late to start taking vitamin and mineral supplements?<\/div>\n\n
<p>Q:\u00a0I am 50 and have been diagnosed with a HEART CONDITION. Is it too late to start taking vitamin and mineral supplements?<\/p>\n<p>A: NO. As long as tissue is viable, it may be possible to salvage it,\u00a0and restore function. This means that if an artery is still open, despite\u00a0atheroma build-up, it may be possible to reverse this aspect of the\u00a0disease process and restore normal blood flow. It is only very late\u00a0in the disease sequence, ie after an irreversible event such as a heart\u00a0attack with consequent death of heart muscle, that tissue renewal is\u00a0no longer possible. Even at this late stage, however, there are things\u00a0we can take (such as Omega 3 oils and flavonoids) which will reduce\u00a0the risk of subsequent arrhythmias and blood clots.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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HEART DISEASE - What should I include in my diet to lower my risk of HEART DISEASE?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Fresh fruits and vegetables, oily fish, onions, oats and soy bean\u00a0products. Learn to drink your tea black, or switch to green tea; and\u00a0move over from white wine to red. Cut down on saturated fats, processed\u00a0foods and sugars \u2014 and if you are a smoker, STOP!!<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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HEART DISEASE - My family has a history of HEART DISEASE, how can I best protect myself?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: If your LDL cholesterol level is very high, bring it down with soy\u00a0protein, prebiotics such as FOS, and\/or citrus juice.<\/p>\n<p>Protect the HDL cholesterol with anti-oxidants, beginning with Vitamins\u00a0E and C, and a good multi-mineral supplement. Boost HDL (\u2018good\u2019)\u00a0cholesterol with exercise, betaine, and moderate alcohol!<\/p>\n<p>Finally, protect your arteries with flavonoids, as in berry fruits,\u00a0green tea, dark chocolate and red wine; and cut down on deep fried foods\u00a0and salt. If you smoke, try to stop.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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HYDROGENATED OILS - What are HYDROGENATED OILS? Why are they bad for you?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: These are vegetable oils that have been boiled and altered chemically\u00a0to turn them into fats. When eaten they mimic normal fats, and obstruct\u00a0their normal metabolism. They are linked to heart disease and possibly\u00a0other health disorders.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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IBS - What can I do to control my IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Peppermint oil is often used; and may be combined with a glucosamine\u00a0supplement (hydrochloride form) for longer-term benefits. Prebiotics\u00a0can be extremely helpful in some cases; it is important to start with\u00a0small doses, and gradually increase them until benefits are noticed,\u00a0as a sudden high dose of these fibres can make the short-term problems\u00a0worse.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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IMMUNE SYSTEM - What would you recommend to boost one\u2019s IMMUNE SYSTEM?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Do you want a stimulant, or an immune support? If the former, then\u00a0Echinacea (Purple Cone Flower) is one well-documented herb. If you want\u00a0an immune support, then a comprehensive vitamin and mineral supplement\u00a0is required, together with a methyl group donor like betaine. If your\u00a0immune system is suppressed by either over-exercise or stress, you need\u00a0the amino acid glutamine or an adaptogen such as one of the ginsengs.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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LYCOPENE - There have been stories in the media about something called LYCOPENE, what is it, and what is it good for?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Lycopene is found in tomatoes and tomato products such as ketchup\u00a0and passata. It is related to beta carotene, but appears to be very\u00a0much more cancer-protective; an increased consumption of lycopene is\u00a0linked to reduced risk of cancer of the prostate, breast and gastro-intestinal tract. The protection is probably due to the ability of this valuable\u00a0nutrient to force cancer cells to \u2018re-differentiate\u2019, i.e. turn\u00a0back to being normal, non-cancerous cells. Lycopene is also a strong\u00a0anti-oxidant, and is thought to be considerably cardio-protective.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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MEMORY - I want to preserve my MEMORY, what can I eat or which supplements can I take?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Start by increasing your intake of the main anti-oxidants, including\u00a0Vitamins C and E, and the carotenes. Make sure you have enough selenium\u00a0in your diet or supplement, together with the other anti-oxidant metals\u00a0copper, zinc and manganese. Add in the B vitamins, and betaine. This\u00a0combination will give you a head start. To gain an additional level\u00a0of protection add in lecithin, or phosphatidyl serine. If there are\u00a0vascular problems, add a high dose flavonoid supplement.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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MENOPAUSE - Is there anything I can take to ease the symptoms of the MENOPAUSE?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: The isoflavones and related compounds in soy, flax seed and red\u00a0clover have all been reported to reduce menopausal symptoms such as\u00a0mood swings, hot flushes and loss of libido. These can be obtained in\u00a0supplement forms, or by a switch to a carefully defined vegetarian diet.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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NUTRIENT - If I took every NUTRIENT I\u2019ve been recommended I would rattle! What is the answer?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: I recommend a comprehensive formulation \u2013 one that crams all\u00a0the micronutrients into a relatively small number of pills (ie 5-7).<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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OATS - Why are OATS supposed to be so good for you?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Oats are a good source of two different types of fibre. They contain\u00a0the prebiotic betaglucans, which are cardio- and CChem-protective; they\u00a0also contain the more old-fashioned fibre known formerly as \u2018roughage\u2019,\u00a0which aids bowel function.<\/p>\n<p>Oats are also a reasonable source of the mineral chromium, which can\u00a0enhance insulin\u2019s effects in the body, and has been shown to help\u00a0some adult-onset diabetics.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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OILY FISH - Why is it better to eat MACKEREL OR SALMON than haddock or plaice?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Oily fish such as herring, mackerel and salmon contain Omega 3 oils,\u00a0which are not found in white fish. These oils are cardio-protective,\u00a0and have other health benefits as well (See <a href="http:\/\/uni-vite.iconsdg.com\/health-defence-book\/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Defence<\/a> for details).<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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ORGANIC FOOD - Why is ORGANIC FOOD supposed to be better?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: It\u2019s not entirely clear yet whether organic food really is\u00a0better for you, although there are a few studies which suggest it might\u00a0be.<\/p>\n<p>Organic foods contain lower levels of artificial pesticides (they should\u00a0really contain none at all), which may have some slight health benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps more significantly, they generally contain higher levels of\u00a0some of the more recently discovered micronutrients such as the flavonoids\u00a0and carotenes, and this may present significant health advantages.<\/p>\n<p>However, agro-industry has learned how to persuade even intensively\u00a0grown crops to generate the same levels of these compounds \u2014 so\u00a0the differences between organic and non-organic will soon be reduced.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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OSTEOPOROSIS - My mother has advanced OSTEOPOROSIS? Is there anything she can do or eat to halt its progression?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Yes. Doctors routinely prescribe HRT, and bisphosphonates, but there\u00a0are problems associated with both of these approaches.<\/p>\n<p>If you prefer to take a nutritional route, stock up on the micronutrients\u00a0needed to make osteoid, the precursor of bone. These include the minerals\u00a0zinc, copper and manganese, the Vitamins C, B6 and K, the amino sugar\u00a0glucosamine; and Vitamin D. With these micronutrients in place, you\u00a0will not be so dependent on huge (excessive) doses of calcium and magnesium;\u00a0and the rate of osteoporosis should be slowed, and perhaps even stabilised.\u00a0Ipriflavone is also recommended by many practitioners.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS - What is the difference between PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Probiotics are the so-called \u2018friendly\u2019 bacteria\u2019\u00a0found in fermented dairy products such as yoghurts. Some strains of\u00a0bacterium are useful, and may help to protect against stomach upsets,\u00a0but many others are ineffective.<\/p>\n<p>Prebiotics are a type of fibre, such as FOS, or the betaglucans found\u00a0in oats, which are not digested but pass through into the large bowel,\u00a0where they stimulate the growth of the \u2018friendly bacteria\u2019\u00a0already there.<\/p>\n<p>By and large, prebiotics are cheaper, more stable, and have a greater\u00a0effect on the bacterial populations in the gut. They are also likely\u00a0to be cancer-protective, whereas there is little evidence that the probiotics\u00a0have any similar effect.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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PREGNANT - I am six months PREGNANT. Should I be taking an iron supplement?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Iron-deficiency anaemia is the single most common deficiency syndrome,\u00a0and women of child-bearing age are the highest risk category. However,\u00a0iron supplements should really only be taken if the symptoms of anaemia\u00a0are present (ie pallor, fatigue, chronic infections), or if anaemia\u00a0has actually been diagnosed.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SELENIUM - What is SELENIUM? Is it true it can boost MALE FERTILITY?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: YES \u2014 but only if the infertility is due to selenium depletion.\u00a0Infertility caused by other factors (and there are many of them) would\u00a0not respond to selenium supplements. However, selenium depletion is\u00a0common in the UK, due to dietary shifts, and is therefore a probable\u00a0contributory factor in many cases.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SKIN CANCER - I\u2019ve spent years sunbathing and I am now worried about SKIN CANCER AND WRINKLES. Is there anything I can do, or is it too late?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Stop sunbathing \u2014 but if the beach habits are too hard to break,\u00a0learn the Australian slip\/slap\/slop routine: slip into a shirt, slap\u00a0on a hat, slop on the sunscreen.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a smoker, do try to stop; boost your intake of anti-oxidants,\u00a0especially the flavonoids, and if you\u2019re over 40 add a glucosamine\u00a0supplement (in hydrochloride form) to the mix. This will help to slow\u00a0the development of wrinkles.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re really concerned about the possibility of skin cancer\u00a0(ie you have pale skin and red or blonde hair, or have experienced bad\u00a0sunburn on one or more occasions, or have worrying skin symptoms such\u00a0as an enlarged or bleeding mole), then high dose carotenes, together\u00a0with selenium, could offer some protection.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SMOKING - Why is SMOKING so bad for me?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: It floods your body with a toxic mixture of free radicals and other\u00a0carcinogens, so please try to quit. A more complete explanation, including\u00a0nutraceutical strategies to reduce the harmful effects of smoking, can\u00a0be found elsewhere on this site.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SOFT CAPSULE OR TABLET- What is the best way of taking vitamins, in SOFT CAPSULE OR TABLET form?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Vitamin C, the B vitamins (including betaine) and the minerals can\u00a0be taken in tablets or hard capsules, which are among the cheapest delivery\u00a0forms. The essential fatty acids, and fat-soluble micronutrients such\u00a0as Vitamins C, D and K, CoEnzyme Q10 and the carotenes, are generally\u00a0better absorbed when taken pre-dissolved in oil, in a soft-gel capsule.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SOY - How can I increase my SOY intake?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Try cooking with soy beans, either soaking from dry or using pre-soaked,\u00a0available in cans from some supermarkets \u2013 or use tofu. Other soy\u00a0products such as the meat substitutes are often more widely available,\u00a0and will offer some of the health benefits of soy such as cholesterol\u00a0reduction.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SOY - I\u2019ve read that SOY is good for you? Why is this?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: The U.S. FDA has accepted the evidence that a diet which provides\u00a025g or more of soy per day can help to lower cholesterol levels, and\u00a0this is thought to be cardio-protective. The isoflavones in some soy\u00a0extracts offer additional cardio-protection. The isoflavones are also\u00a0linked to protection against certain cancers, and a reduced risk of\u00a0osteoporosis.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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STRESS - Can diet help alleviate STRESS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: In the broadest sense, yes. Many nutritionists suggest you reduce\u00a0your intake of refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol \u2014 and I have\u00a0no problem with this.<\/p>\n<p>However, to gain more significant anti-stress benefits, you really\u00a0need an adaptogen such as one of the ginsengs. Chinese (Panax ginseng)\u00a0is the most commonly known, but the Siberian (Eleutherococcus senticosus)\u00a0and the Indian forms (Withania somnifera) are rather cleaner, i.e. have\u00a0somewhat fewer side-effects.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SUPPLEMENTS - I\u2019ve heard that SUPPLEMENTS are not absorbed by the body and are simply passed out in urine, is this true?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Not necessarily. It depends on how well the supplements are designed,\u00a0and how they are consumed (ie in relation to mealtimes, etc). Good supplements\u00a0have actually been shown to provide some micronutrients more effectively\u00a0than food.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SUPPLEMENTS - Should SUPPLEMENTS be taken in combination?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: In almost all cases the answer is yes. Very few micronutrients work\u00a0well as single agents, and some of them (including Vitamin E, the carotenes,\u00a0and possibly the mineral manganese), may have adverse effects if used\u00a0on their own. The other point is that most people are depleted in most\u00a0micronutrients; and their risk of developing a degenerative disease\u00a0is related to their overall pattern of depletion. In the vast majority\u00a0of cases, therefore, it is more logical to take a well-designed micronutrient\u00a0combination.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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SUPPLEMENTS - Why doesn\u2019t my GP recommend SUPPLEMENTS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: GPs are only trained in conventional medicine, and many of them\u00a0know relatively little about nutrition. You might recommend them to\u00a0have a quick look at my book\u00a0<a href="http:\/\/uni-vite.iconsdg.com\/health-defence-book\/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Defence<\/a>!<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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TEA - I\u2019ve always thought TEA was bad for you, is this true?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: I don\u2019t buy this old-fashioned idea. Tea contains flavonoids,\u00a0with green tea coming out ahead of Oolong, followed by the black teas.\u00a0These are thought to be cardio- and chemo-protective.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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TIRED - I am always TIRED, could I be deficient in something?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: You probably are, although this isn\u2019t necessarily the cause\u00a0of your feeling tired, which might be due to anything from an uncomfortable\u00a0bed to noisy neighbours, or stress-related insomnia. However, multiple\u00a0micronutrient depletion is frequently implicated, so a good multi-vitamin\u00a0and mineral supplement, combined with Co-Q10, is often helpful.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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VITAMIN E- I buy VITAMIN E at my chemist. I\u2019ve noticed some is labelled natural source and some isn\u2019t. What is the difference, and which is better?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Natural source is almost certainly better. This is because of the\u00a0complex structure of Vitamin E; the molecule may take up to 8 different\u00a0forms, and only one of these (dl-alpha) is thought to be fully effective\u00a0as an anti-oxidant in the body. Most natural sources provide dl-alpha;\u00a0synthetic products contain all 8 forms, and may be considerably less\u00a0effective, or even counter-productive.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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VITAMINS OR MINERALS - Can one take too many VITAMINS OR MINERALS?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: YES. Some minerals can be toxic in overdose, such as selenium, copper,\u00a0manganese, and iron; a relatively small overdose of iron (ie 4-6 times\u00a0the RDA) can kill a small child.<\/p>\n<p>Vitamin A can cause problems in overdose in pregnant women; doses only\u00a0a few times the RDA have been linked to an increased risk of foetal\u00a0malformation.<\/p>\n<p>Even small doses of Vitamin K can cause problems in people taking anti-clotting\u00a0agents. And both Vitamin E and the carotenes can be harmful if taken\u00a0in large amounts, unless given in combination with Vitamin C. Micronutrients\u00a0are potent molecules, and can cause harm if taken unwisely. This is\u00a0why the regulatory authorities have determined Upper Safety Levels (USLs)\u00a0for most of them.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n
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YOGHURT- Why is LIVE YOGHURT better for you?<\/div>\n\n
<p>A: Some live yoghurts are better (than pasteurised yoghurts), but not\u00a0all of them; it depends on the culture that was used to make the yoghurt.\u00a0Some, like the Shirota strain in Yakult or LC1 in the Nestl\u00e9\u00a0range, have been shown to persist in the gut and may therefore offer\u00a0some protection against various GI problems. Other strains of bacterium<br \/>used in various yoghurts are killed off in the stomach, and probably\u00a0don\u2019t do us any good at all.<\/p><\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n\n \n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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