HealthBeat News

Category: Heart and Circulation

  • 10 Dangers of Carbohydrates

    The US Food Pyramid advises us to eat 5-10 servings per day of carbohydrates, but high carbohydrate diets are the primary causes of our current overweight/obesity epidemic. 66% of adult Americans are overweight and 33% of these are obese. Diets high in carbohydrates (grains, beans, sugary fruits— anything that quickly turns into sugar in the blood stream) are making Americans some of the fattest people on Earth.

    Here are 10 reasons why carbohydrates — “carbs” — are so dangerous.

    I.) Carbs are not “essential” and high consumption displaces necessary nutrients. “Essential” means that a certain food is absolutely required by the body (like gasoline or diesel in a car), is not manufactured by the body, and so must be consumed in the diet.

    Have you ever heard of an “essential fatty acid”? (EFA)? Some types of fats — Omega 6’s and Omega 3’s — are absolutely required by the body.

    Have you heard of “essential amino acids”? Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. There are 8 amino acids that are “essential.” Without them, muscles, hormones and the heart (a muscle) cease to function properly. Muscles have a high protein requirement.

    Have you ever heard of an “essential carbohydrate”? I hope not, because there’s no such thing!

    Of the three calorie containing molecules — proteins, fats and carbohydrates — only certain fats and proteins are “essential.” When the diet is high in carbohydrates, it is often deficient in the necessary essential fats and proteins. Deficiencies of essential fats and proteins causes all manner of diseases, from mood disorders (neurotransmitters are made from essential fats and proteins) to muscle weakness (muscles have a high protein requirement), hormone imbalances, heart disease and premature aging.

    II.) Carbs cause overweight. What do we feed cows to fatten them up quickly? Carbohydrates, especially corn. “Corn fed beef” is wonderful — loaded with marbled fat. Cows don’t eat meat, so obviously the vilified eggs, butter and meat aren’t what is putting weight on these animals.

    And pigs? Although pigs are omnivores (like humans, they’ll eat anything), they are fed carbohydrates including corn, soybeans and barley for maximum weight gain. A piglet can go from 60 pounds to 250 pounds in 3 months on a diet high in carbohydrates.

    III.) Carbs cause adult-onset diabetes and “syndrome X” (pre diabetes). Fats and proteins have very little effect on blood sugar. Carbs have a BIG effect on blood sugar, causing rapid spike in glucose followed by a rapid rise in insulin. In the near-absence of carbohydrates, nearly all type II diabetics will fully recover from the “disease” in under three months. (I put type II diabetes in parenthesis because I don’t consider it a disease so much as a dietary imbalance. When the diet is corrected, the diabetes goes away).

    IV.) Carbs cause high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Look at the name of this molecule: carbo – “hydrate.” Hydrate means to combine with water. Each molecule of carbohydrate draws eight molecules of water to itself. This means that carbs cause water retention.

    Many cases of high blood pressure are caused by simple water retention. This is why one of the first drugs given for blood pressure is a diuretic — something that makes you urinate and hence, eliminate fluid.

    Congestive heart failure is caused by the body retaining too much water and literally “water logging” the heart, impeding it’s ability to beat. Eliminate the carbs, and blood pressure drops — often dramatically — in as little as a week.

    V.) Carbohydrates harbor deadly fungus and yeasts. Yeasts and fungus (which are really different forms of the same organism) feed on sugar. Many carbohydrate foods have a high propensity to become infected with fungus. What’s the danger of fungus? Please read Fungus, Yeasts and Molds: Hidden Cause of Many “Unexplained” Diseases.

    VI.) Carbohydrates cause nutrient deficiencies. Carbs require B complex vitamins for their utilization in the body. Unfortunately, it is the B vitamins that are removed during the processing of grains. Because refined grains are low in B vitamins and yet require high B vitamins for their utilization, they lead to B complex vitamin deficiencies.

    Problems associated with B vitamin deficiencies include depression, memory loss, heart disease, insomnia, cataracts, atherosclerosis, fatigue, muscle cramps, allergies and GI symptoms to name just a few.

    VII.) Carbs suppress the immune system. The immune system requires protein and certain fats to function normally. Sugar suppresses the immune system. (Remember, carbohydrates turn into sugar in the body). Three ounces of sugar in any form (can you say “fruit juice” or “soda pop” or “sports drink”?) suppress the activity of white blood cells for up to 5 hours.

    VIII.) Many carbohydrates are allergens. Although a person can be allergic to any type of protein or carbohydrate, grains and beans are some of the most allergenic of all foods.

    Subtle allergies to grains and carbs can cause GI problems (“tear up the gut”) and result in increased intestinal permeability, where toxins are allowed to leak into the bloodstream from the colon.

    IX.) Carbohydrates fuel cancer cells. Cancer cells use glucose — blood sugar — as their “food.” Unlike normal cells, they are not equipped to burn ketones (the product of fat breakdown) for fuel.

    Carbs suppress the immune system, making a person more susceptible to cancer. Then, the high blood sugar provides fuel for the cancer, like throwing gasoline on a fire. If you want to avoid cancer, limit your intake of carbohydrates.

    X.) Carbs are addictive. When you eat carbs, your blood sugar rapidly rises. You get a temporary “high” when your blood sugar is high. Next, a blast of insulin from the pancreas causes a precipitous drop in blood sugar. At this point, feelings of weakness, fatigue, shakiness and even anxiety set in. In order to feel good again, a person will “self medicate” by eating another blast of carbs. This vicious cycle is exactly what happens to drug addicts, who must continue to have repeated “fixes” of their drug in order to feel good. No such addiction occurs with fats and proteins.

    When a person is addicted to carbs, they repeatedly eat them. This results in overweight or obesity, decreased immunity, increased risk of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and depression to name just a few.

    Isn’t it time you “got hip” and switched to a luxurious, low carbohydrate, high-health diet? Lose weight and reclaim health fast with the Super Fast Diet!

  • More Cholesterol Questions!

    James asks:

    I am currently taking 500mg of flush free Niacin daily.
    Is that enough or should I be taking more? I also take 145mg of Tricor daily.

    Nurse Mark Answers:

    Tricor is in a class of drugs called fibrates – they are different from statins, though they can have similar serious side-effects. It is not possible for us to comment on the dosage mentioned – we have absolutely no other information about James’ condition as he is not our patient.

    Further, because we don’t know James’ cholesterol numbers, we cannot even say if he should be trying to lower his cholesterol or not! As we have mentioned before, cholesterol is not the big, bad, bogey-man that it has been made out to be by Big Pharmaceutical Companies eager to increase their profits with the sales of statin drugs – cholesterol is vital to life and health: it makes up about 80% of the walls of every cell in our bodies. Cholesterol is our friend!

    The current Pharma-driven mania for reducing cholesterol to the lowest possible levels is actually putting people at risk for hemorrhagic stroke and a wide variety of other, serious problems!

    For anyone wishing to use niacin for cholesterol control, more information on suggested dosing can be found here where we discuss this substance in detail.

    Look Here for more information about cholesterol, and about Natural Solutions And Strategies For Cholesterol Control.

  • Lower Cholesterol Naturally – Better Cholesterol Management with Vitamins and Herbs

    Your Cholesterol Questions Answered

    What can be done if you’ve been told that you have "high cholesterol?" I’ve been getting questions "in spades" this week, so it’s time for a cholesterol management update! Like Lennie who wrote "I would like to know what supplements you recommend to lower LDL besides diet. I do not want to take statins. Thanks for your news letter I do read it. Blessings, Lennie."

    Perhaps your conventional doctor found your cholesterol levels to be "high" (and there are differing opinions on what "too high" really is, because cholesterol is only ONE of a number of heart risk factors). He or she has probably advised you to start taking a "statin" drug. You will likely be sent off with a prescription for the statin-de-jour along with a recommendation to "eat less cholesterol and cut down on fats." If you do a little research, you will discover that statin drugs have some worrisome side-effects, including elevated liver enzymes (indicating liver distress) and rhabdomyelosis (muscle damage; NOTE: the heart is a muscle). You might also see that there are dozens, maybe even hundreds, of natural remedies, all claiming to be "the best" for safely lowering cholesterol levels.

    We (Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark) chuckle when we get questions from Wellness Club members asking if we have heard about the latest and greatest pill or potion or "cure" – we’ve heard ’em all and then some!

    While statin drugs are being marketed as the next best drug since antibiotics, the dangers and expense of these drugs are rarely mentioned. All the while, well-proven natural remedies exist to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, total cholesterol levels, triglycerides and various other heart risk factors. Along with proven natural remedies come another half-dozen substances that are seen to be helpful but are not as well researched. And of course, as with all other natural remedies, there are an entire array of poorly-researched, unproven remedies that rely on anecdotal "patient success stories" in their glowingly inflated sales pitches. Beware – these "also-rans" aren’t known to perform like proven remedies and may leave you sorely disappointed with the results.

    The Big Three Remedies for High Cholesterol

    1.) Niacin The most well-studied natural agent for cholesterol improvement is niacin, a B complex vitamin. Niacin’s effect on cholesterol has been known since the 1950’s when it was found to be a highly effective cholesterol lowering agent. Studies have shown that niacin not only lowers LDL cholesterol, but also Lp(a), triglyceride, and fibrinogen (a blood protein that causes clot formation) levels, while it simultaneously raises beneficial HDL cholesterol levels. The Coronary Drug Project, an intensive and extensive evaluation of cholesterol-lowering drugs demonstrated that niacin was the only cholesterol-lowering agent that actually reduced overall mortality. Its effects were also found to be long lived, protecting patients in the study years after they had stopped taking it. Here is how niacin compares to cholesterol-lowering drugs:

    Drug Class LDL HDL TG
    BAR’s
    (Bile Acid Resins)    		 decreased
    15-30%    		 increased
    3-5%    		 +/-
    Niacin decreased
    5-25%    		 increased
    15-35%    		 decreased
    20-50%
    Statins decreased
    18-60%    		 increased
    5-15%    		 decreased
    7-30%
    Fibric Acids decreased
    5-20%    		 increased
    10-20%    		 decreased
    20-50%
    Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors decreased
    20%    		 +/- decreased
    8%

    Note that although statins can have a bigger impact on LDL cholesterol levels, niacin is more effective at lowering tryglycerides and raising HDL (the good cholesterol). Also be aware that cholesterol levels can be too low. Cholesterol levels under 140 are associated with an increased risk of strokes.

    Like any substance, high-dose niacin is not without cautions. It’s side effects are well known, the most common being a "niacin flush" – an uncomfortable flushing or hot feeling experienced by some people after taking standard niacin. Niacin can be toxic to the liver when taken in a "time release" form that was developed to avoid the problem of the "niacin flush" that made some patients reluctant to use it. Niacin can alter blood sugar control and so should be used under medical supervision in people with diabetes. It is also important to monitor both cholesterol levels and liver enzyme levels every three months or so while using niacin, as with a statin drug.

    Dr. Myatt recommends a form of niacin called inositol hexaniacinate, a No-Flush Niacin that is very well tolerated.

    If niacin is so great, why don’t the drug companies sell it, and why doesn’t my doctor tell me to take it, you ask? Well, though the studies strongly supports the use of niacin, it has also been victim of a lot of misinformation – your doctor may be ill-informed about it’s benefits, while he or she has certainly been told all about the "benefits" of statins. Niacin is a widely available "generic" substance, meaning it cannot be patented, and the drug companies do not stand to make from it the massive profits that th
    e other cholesterol-lowering drugs have generated for them.

    As a result, one rarely sees niacin advertised in the way that the expensive statin drugs are. Still, niacin should be considered as the first choice in a cholesterol-lowering treatment.

    NOTE: If your doctor DOES prescribe niacin, it will most likely be the pharmaceutical "timed release" version. Studies show that timed release niacin is toxic to the liver and DOES NOT have better benefit than NON timed-release formulas. DO NOT TAKE timed-release niacin for high cholesterol!

    2.) Red Rice Yeast is next in importance. This substance is actually the result of a fungus that grows on white rice, turning it a red color. It has been known for centuries, and used as a colorant in oriental cuisine, and to make a form of red sake (rice wine).

    The active component in Red Rice Yeast is a compound called mevinolin, which is identical to the prescription drug, lovastatin. The drug companies created lovastatin in the laboratory in 1987 also using a fungus, Aspergillus terreus. The active ingredient in Red Rice Yeast was discovered and isolated a decade earlier.

    Red Rice Yeast has been proven to be just as effective as the modern statin drugs at lowering LDL cholesterol. Taken in high doses, it can have some of the same risks as the modern statin drugs – namely a risk of liver damage and also of rhabdomyolysis, a condition that includes muscle deterioration. Anyone taking this or any statin drug should have a baseline liver enzyme check and have their liver enzymes checked at three months into treatment. But risks are small (about 2%). The good news is that it is thought that there is a synergistic effect obtained from other related compounds in Red Rice Yeast which allows much smaller doses to be effective. A typical dose of a statin drug would be in the range of 20-80mg/day while a typical dose of Red Rice Yeast would be about 2.5-10mg/day.

    Neither Red Rice Yeast nor statin drugs should be taken with grapefruit juice, as this can cause a dangerous buildup of the statin compounds in the body.

    Due to drug company pressure on the FDA, many Red Rice Yeast products have been taken off the market because they contain— guess what?— the active ingredient for lowering cholesterol! The FDA said that this made them a drug. Statin drugs are now a 10+ billion dollar a year business for the drug companies (statins are the biggest selling drug of all time), and I believe the they do not want any competition from a natural remedy, especially one that works successfully, has far less negative side effects, and can be taken for about 1/4 the monthly cost of the drug versions. Although the FDA has waffled back and forth about Red Rice Yeast, it is still currently available and should be added to your cholesterol-lowering program if niacin alone fails to help within 8 weeks OR if your total cholesterol is above 240 or your hs-CRP is elevated.

    3.) CoQ10 is a naturally-occurring antioxidant produced in the human body. It is vitally involved in energy production. CoQ10 functions as an "energizer" to mitochondria, the body’s energy producing units. Muscles, and the heart in particular, have high requirements for CoQ10. Although CoQ10 is produced by the body, age, nutrient deficiencies, disease and some medications can lower the body’s CoQ10 levels. Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) are known to deplete CoQ10. (The original patent-holders of statins wanted to add CoQ10 to the drug because of this known depletion; the FDA denied their request). Everyone taking a statin drug should also be taking CoQ10. In fact, because CoQ10 is necessary for normal heart function, I strongly recommend it’s use for any type of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, high blood pressure and as part of a cholesterol-lowering program.

    Other Proven Cholesterol-Lowering Agents

    Garlic is another well-known cholesterol-lowering agent is with a wide spectrum of additional beneficial effects including blood pressure regulation, effective antibiotic scope and potent immune stimulant. Here however we are interested in garlic’s proven ability to lower LDL cholesterol when taken in appropriate doses of preparations that contains the the ingredient allicin. Allicin is the product of the substance alliin and the enzyme alliinase, and is fragile, dissipating quickly and easily during processing. A minimum therapeutic intake of allicin is considered to be about 4000 mcg. That is the equivalent to about one to four cloves of whole fresh garlic (depending on the size of the clove.) It is true that simply eating garlic (and it’s cousin onion) can have an excellent effect for lowering LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood fibrinogen levels. Please remember that this effect is lost when garlic or onion is cooked, as cooking quickly destroys the active ingredient allicin. Anyone looking to buy garlic supplements should be aware of the German Commission E, a panel of experts which sets standards for dosage requirements to allow for therapeutic claims. Check the label to make sure the supplement you are considering meets their standards for strength and purity.

    Vitamin C has a well-studied positive effect on lowering total cholesterol and triglyceride levels while raising beneficial HDL levels. Vitamin C supplementation is valuable for many other reasons – it is an powerful antioxidant, and an immune enhancer. If you are considering using higher doses of vitamin C, use buffered vitamin C to avoid stomach upset. Also remember that Dr. Myatt’s Maxi-Multi contains 1,200 mg of this important vitamin when taken in the recommended daily dose.

    Fiber has a time-honored place in any cholesterol-lowering regimen. High intakes of soluble fiber have been shown to lower both overall and LDL cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, such high intakes of fiber can cause gastrointestinal upset in many people, and this causes them to not take effective doses. Psyllium and oat bran are two of the most-studied, and are easily available to add to the diet. You should NOT take psyllium at the same time you take the prescription drugs carbamazepine, lithium, digitalis or nitrofurantoin because psyllium will decrease their absorption and effectiveness.

    Another form of fiber that is demonstrating great promise as a cholesterol-lowering aid is chitosan which is a substance made from the shell
    s of shellfish. Chitosan has the effect of binding fat and cholesterol in the digestive tract. It is so effective at this that it will absorb as much as seven to eight times it’s own weight in fat and bile which are then passed through the bowel and excreted. Because of it’s fat-binding ability, chitosan is valuable as a weight loss aid as well as a cholesterol-normalizing agent. There are just a couple of caveats regarding chitosan: first, like any other fiber, chitosan can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and trace minerals. These should be taken at times other than when chitosan when is taken. Secondly, because chitosan is derived from the exoskeletons (shells) of shellfish, people with seafood allergies should use caution.

    The above list is the top half-dozen, proven, tested, effective cholesterol-lowering supplements and agents. They are not the only things in our armamentarium (that’s a medical word for "bag of tricks"!) though. Some of the "lesser lights" are not as well proven, or not as specifically effective at lowering cholesterol, but they may still be very valuable as a part of a coordinated cholesterol-lowering and health improving plan.

    More Cholesterol-Lowering Substances

    Artichoke has been studied since the 1930’s and found to have excellent effects on both atherosclerotic plaque and cholesterol and LDL levels. It is also highly protective, and may even be regenerative to the liver. It also possesses antioxidant properties. It is a valuable addition to a person’s daily supplementation. Dr. Myatt makes this available in combination with Milk Thistle which is a potent liver protector with regenerative properties and a powerful antioxidant and Turmeric which is a marvelous anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, liver-protective (on a par with milk thistle), anti-tumorgenic herb that also helps maintain normal blood viscosity. My Milk Thistle Plus+ Formula combines all three of these herbs for a powerful liver-enhancing effect.

    Turmeric has been shown in a number of studies to have cholesterol-lowering effects of it’s own. This, in addition to it’s other benefits as described above make it a "must do" in any daily supplementation program. Turmeric also inhibits platelet aggregation (med-speak for blood clotting) and serves as a natural cox-2 inhibitor like the prescription drug Vioxx.

    Gugulipid is an ancient remedy that is being "rediscovered" by the western medical establishment. Gugulipid is made from the resin of the commiphora mukul tree of north central India and has been used for thousands of years to alleviate problems associated with obesity, acne, viral infections, and other ailments. It has also been shown in some limited but significant studies to reduce cholesterol and LDL levels and increase HDL levels within three to four weeks. It is certainly worth considering adding this to a cholesterol-lowering regimen.

    Green Tea has also been the subject of some promising and even exciting research. Green tea serves as a potent antioxidant, preventing the oxidation of LDL in the arteries. The cholesterol-lowering effects of Green tea have been shown in numerous animal and human studies. Green tea catechins act to limit the rise in blood cholesterol according to a 1996 Japanese study. Further, Green tea has been shown to elevate HDL, and serves as a natural ACE inhibitor, lowering blood pressure. These benefits can be obtained by drinking up to 10 cups of Green tea daily, or taking one to two capsules of Green tea extract daily.

    Fish Oil has been shown to reduce high levels of triglycerides by an average of 35%. It does not appear to reduce cholesterol to that extent, but it does offer benefits when as part of an integrated therapy program. Scientific studies have demonstrated that alpha-linolenic acid (from flax or perilla oil) reduces the incidence of atherosclerosis, stroke, and second heart attacks. One study showed a 70% reduction in second heart attacks in those consuming this type of fatty acid.

    Vitamin E protects us from more than 80 diseases and illnesses, including protecting us from the inhibiting the effects of oxidation of LDL and the development of atherosclerotic disease. Studies have also shown it to be effective as some hypocholesterolemic (cholesterol-lowering) drugs. Anyone considering adding vitamin E to their regimen should also add Selenium which works with vitamin E to prevent LDL oxidation. Both of these nutrients are found in Dr. Myatt’s Maxi-Multi.

    Policosanol refers to a group of eight solid alcohols derived from sugar cane wax. Octacosanol is the major constituent of policosanol and proponents of this substance claim that Octacosanol is remarkably safe and effective at reducing cholesterol levels, and at reducing platelet aggregation. Current supplies are from Cuba and, in my opinion, too expensive. As the price comes down and the research some up, this may prove to be a worthy cholesterol-lowering agent. (The research would have to be VAST to surpass niacin, however).

    Finally, Soy has been shown to confer numerous benefits through it’s isoflavones – genistein, daidzein, and glycitein. According to a study completed in 1997, "Potential mechanisms by which soy isoflavones might prevent atherosclerosis include a beneficial effect on plasma lipid concentrations, antioxidant effects, antiproliferative and antimigratory effects on smooth muscle cells, effects on thrombus formation, and maintenance of normal vascular reactivity." Bottom line: if you want to reduce your risk of heart disease and elevated cholesterol levels, it is worth adding soy to your diet.

    Unproven Cholesterol "Cures"

    We’ve talked about the proven first line remedies and the second line "helpful’s," now let’s talk about some substances that have been touted without proof to back them up.

    Coral Calcium – promoted as the cure for every thing from cancer to high cholesterol to bad breath to spiritual weakness. Many of it’s top promoters are facing criminal prosecution. Avoid it. Not only does coral calcium often contain high lead levels, it is destructive to the coral reefs where it is derived. Calcium alone is not a proven cholesterol-lowering remedy; neither is coral calcium. If you need additional calcium/magnesium/bone nutrients, consider taking Cal-Mag Amino.

    Various teas have been touted as total cholesterol cures, no doubt riding on the coattails of accepted Green Tea studies. Don’t believe them – Green Tea is an important part of a cholesterol-control program, but teas are not the whole answer!

    Cinnamon capsules have recently been promoted as a cholesterol-reducing agent. We are not aware of any solid studies to support this. Cinnamon does seem to have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels of type II diabetics though. The capsules seem a bit expensive, when you can simply add this spice to your food and beverages – try it in tea!

    Vinegar, and most especially apple cider vinegar, have also enjoyed some popularity as folk remedies for high cholesterol. Again, there is no scientific evidence of beneficial effect – though "anecdotal evidence" of the "my best friend’s great aunt’s late husband used it every day ’till he died" variety is plentiful…

    Beyond Supplements and Drugs: Live a "Good Cholesterol Lifestyle"

    No cholesterol-lowering program would be complete without a discussion of diet. Instead of dire warnings and restrictive regimes that drastically limit fat intake, Dr. Myatt puts her patients on The Super Fast Diet for cholesterol control. Her patients find this to be a rich, balanced, satisfying diet, and they are pleasantly surprised to find that not only do their cholesterol levels normalize in short order, but so does their weight. This nutrient-rich diet has people feeling better, looking better, and performing better, and their lab results are the proof of it’s effectiveness.

    Your Personal Cholesterol-Lowering Protocol

    For more information and dosage recommendations for natural cholesterol lowering remedies, please visit The Wellness Club website here: High Cholesterol Protocol
    http://www.DoctorMyatt.com/cholesterol.htm

    High cholesterol is a correctable dietary problem, not a statin drug deficiency! You can improve your cardiovascular risk far better by correcting underlying problems than by taking a liver-function-blocking drug. Why settle for a Band-Aid when a CURE is available?!

  • Soy: Risks and Benefits

    Like most things in nature, the humble soy bean (Glycine max) can be healthful in moderation, harmful in excess. Because soy and soy products (tofu, miso, soy flour) are currently gaining a lot of media attention and popularity, it is important to understand the risks and benefits of this food and supplement.Soy contains substances called protease inhibitors. In small to moderate amounts, these substances help prevent cancer and are also useful in controlling cancer. Soy has estrogenic effects, though much weaker than the human estrogen equivalent. For this reason, soy can increase the estrogen effect in someone who is deficient, or decrease the estrogen effect in one who has an excess. (Because it competes for the same receptors as the stronger mammalian estrogens, giving then less available places to bind). Soy may also improve cholesterol levels when eaten with some regularity. Believe me, you’ll be reading and hearing a lot more about this food in the months ahead, but please exercise moderation. Much of what you hear is “hype,” some is valuable medical advice.

    Soy is a “goitrogen,” capable of inhibiting thyroid function when consumed in large amounts. In fact, I have seen some particularly sensitive people experience thyroid suppression when eating soy even in modest doses.

    Further, soy is a type of protein that many people do not digest and tolerate well. It is especially likely to aggravate irritable bowel symptoms, causing gas and diarrhea, in those who are sensitive to it.

    SO, who should eat soy? It appears to be a healthy and even helpful food for many people, 3 to 4 servings per week is my recommendation. If you experience bowel discomfort from eating soy, then this food is not for you. If you elect to eat larger amounts per week than this, consider having your thyroid function tested when you first add more soy to your diet, then again in 3 months to see if it has adversely affected your thyroid hormones levels.

    For those who wish to obtain the benefits of soy (such as women desiring alternative to convention hormone replacement, or those with hormone-related cancers under their holistic physician’s guidance), soy supplements can be taken. These contain the isolated active ingredients of soy, primarily genistein and diadzein, without the gut-disturbing proteins that bother many.

    I consider soy a useful protein source with positive health benefits when consumed in moderation. Just don’t fall for the plethora of media and soy-growers of America “over-hype” and fall prey to excess. “All things in moderation, including moderation”!

    Learn more about soy

  • Big Fat Lies!

    Unlike carbohydrates, fats are an essential macronutrient and also the most misunderstood. The term “fat” actually refers to an entire family of fatty acids, each with very different biological functions. Only two fatty acids are essential, but the way in which all interact with each other plays an important role in how Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) are utilized. Deficiencies, excesses or relative deficiencies of EFA’s are now known to have serious health consequences. Because imbalanced dietary fats are strongly associated with many diseases, any diet aiming for optimal health must correct fat intake. A number of books address the importance of EFA’s, also called “Omegas,” but most contain elements of spurious science.

    The Myatt Diet dives deeper into the description and prescription for optimizing fat intake than any diet ever before, shattering some widely held but incorrect beliefs about certain fats and setting the record straight on others. Let’s look at some of the Big Fat Lies about fat that no other diet book has correctly explained, including:

    TRANS fats are the real villains among dietary fats, interfering with absorption of the Essential Fatty Acids, damaging cell membranes, elevating cholesterol level and altering the way normal cell membranes function. Trans fats are prevalent in the American diet, including many weight loss and “health” diets, but their intake should be drastically minimized for health reasons. In fact, the FDA recently passed a law requiring the amounts of trans fats to be listed separately on food nutrition labels.

    Saturated fats, the kind we get from eating steak, butter, cheese and eggs, are NOT unhealthy as they have been portrayed. In fact, they are so important that the human body produces them internally. Dietary saturated fat intake is not only safe but also necessary. Because “sat fats” do not compete with the EFA’s for absorption, do not turn “trans” or rancid, and maintain their chemical composition when heated, they are preferable for frying and high-heat cooking. The old belief that “saturated fats are unhealthy” was actually started many years ago based on some unscientific “science,” the edible oil industry in this country (who magnified the unsavory science in ads to discredit coconut oil and improve sales of domestic oils such as corn and cottonseed), and one wealthy businessman who mistakenly blamed his heart disease on saturated fats and paid for a huge, negative marketing campaign. Saturated fats are not villains, and some sat fats, such as coconut oil, have significant health benefits. (Coconut oil is antimicrobial, antiviral, is excellent for cooking for the reasons listed above, and can be used easily and directly as a calorie source, hence, it “burns” faster and “hotter” than many other types of calories).

    Further, the belief that monounsaturated oils (such as olive oil) are healthful and desirable is another Big Fat Lie. In truth, they are the white bread of the fatty acid family. Although better than Trans fats, “monos” serve no purpose in the body, are not essential, compete with the Essential Fatty Acids for utilization, and can turn into Trans fats with cooking.

    Omega-6 Fatty Acids are an Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) that needs to be balanced with it’s EFA partner, Omega-3, for optimal health. The American diet contains far too much of this essential fat and most people should not be taking supplements of O-6 oils.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids, the other EFA, must partner with O-6 in a 4:1 to 10:1 ratio. Unfortunately, this EFA is exceptionally low in virtually every diet, from the Standard American Diet to Atkin’s to Pritiken, and especially the USDA food pyramid. No one has told us the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth regarding optimal fat intake until now. On a truly healthful diet (primarily The Myatt Diet), you can have your steak (its “Omega Ratio” makes it far healthier than chicken), lavish butter on your broccoli and bathe your artichoke in mayonnaise, but that dainty olive oil vinaigrette that most would advise should be replaced by a healthier flax oil dressing.

    Heart Disease

    One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart disease is to eat a diet low in trans fats and replace foods rich in trans and omega-6 fats with those that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high cholesterol and high blood pressure. There is also strong evidence that these substances can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, each of which tends to clog arteries. Studies of heart attack survivors have found that daily omega-3 fatty acid supplements dramatically reduce the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks, and stroke. Similarly, people who eat an ALA-rich diet are less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.

    Stroke

    Strong evidence from population-based studies suggests that omega-3 fatty acid intake (primarily from fish), helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. In fact, eating at least two servings of fish per week can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, people who eat more than three grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may be at an increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in the brain leaks or ruptures. Keep in mind that 80% of strokes are due to blood clots, and only 20% are hemorrhagic. Further, it is weak blood vessels, not thin blood, that cause this rarer type of stroke. (Grape seed extract, available in supplement form, helps strengthen blood vessels among its other benefits).

    Weight Loss

    People who have trouble losing weight when dieting, including those who are resistant to weight loss on a ketogenic (Atkins’) diet, are likely to have a deficiency of Omega-3 fatty Acids OR an imbalanced ratio of O-6 to O-3. Improving this ratio of Essential Fatty Acid intake in the diet, without additional restriction on carbohydrates or calories, is often the key to unlocking this “metabolic resistance.”

    Arthritis

    Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

    In addition, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in omega-6 fatty acids) may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. In some participants, symptoms worsened before they improved.

    Depression

    People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids or do not maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet may be at an increased risk for depression. The omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes. They help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health.

    Levels of omega-3 fatty acids were found to be measurably low and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids were particularly high in a study of patients hospitalized for depression. In a study of people with depression, those who ate a healthy diet consisting of fatty fish two to three times per week for 5 years experienced a significant reduction in feelings of depression and hostility.

    Macular Degeneration

    A questionnaire administered to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those who consumed more fish in their diet were less likely to have macular degeneration (a serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who consumed less fish. Similarly, a study comparing 350 people with macular degeneration to 500 without found that those with a healthy dietary balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and higher intake of fish in their diets were less likely to have this particular eye disorder. Another larger study confirms that EPA and DHA from fish, four or more times per week, may reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration.

    Colon Cancer

    Consuming significant amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appears to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to follow a high fat diet but eat significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer. Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent worsening of colon cancer while omega-6 fatty acids promote the growth of colon tumors. Daily consumption of EPA and DHA also appeared to slow or even reverse the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease.

    Breast Cancer

    Women who regularly consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appear to be less likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, the risk of dying from breast cancer may be significantly less for those who eat large quantities of omega-3 from fish and brown kelp seaweed (common in Japan). This is particularly true among women who substitute fish for meat. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids appears to play an important role in the development and growth of breast cancer. The tissue levels of women with breast cancer are found to contain much lower levels of Omega-3 fatty acids than breast tissue from healthy controls.

    Some researchers hypothesize that omega-3 fatty acids in combination with other nutrients (namely, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and coenzyme Q10) may prove to be of particular value for preventing and treating breast cancer.

    Prostate Cancer

    Laboratory and animal studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically, DHA and EPA) may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Similarly, population based studies of groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Like breast cancer, the balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids appears to be particularly important for reducing the risk of this condition.

    Other

    Preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may also prove beneficial in protecting against infections, ulcers, migraine headaches, preterm labor, asthma, emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease, lupus, and panic attacks.

    Dietary Sources

    Fish oils and plant oils are the primary dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, and herring. ALA is found in flaxseeds & flaxseed oil. FISH and FLAX are the best sources. Other oils that contain significant amounts of Omega-3 are not recommended because they are also high in Omega-6. these include: canola (rapeseed) oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seed oil, purslane, walnuts, and walnut oil.

    Available Forms

    In addition to the dietary sources described, EPA and DHA can be taken in the form of fish oil Capsules. Flaxseed, flaxseed oil, and fish oil should be kept refrigerated. Whole flaxseeds should be ground within 1 week of use to ensure maximum potency.

    Be sure to buy omega-3 fatty acid supplements made by established companies who certify that their products are free of heavy metals such as mercury.

    How to Take It

    Flaxseed

    1 TBS. ground flax seed per day AND 1 TBS. flax oil per day OR 2 TBS. flax oil per day. (This corresponds to about 12 flax oil Capsules.)

    Flaxseed: 1 TBS two to three times per day or 2 to 4 tsp one time per day. Grind before eating and take with lots of water.

    EPA and DHA

    The adequate daily intake of EPA and DHA for adults should be at least 220 mg of each per day. Two to three servings of fatty fish per week (roughly 1,250 mg EPA and DHA per day) are generally recommended to treat certain health conditions.

    Fish oil supplements

    3,000 to 4,000 mg standardized fish oils per day. (This amount corresponds to roughly 2 to 3 servings of fatty fish per week.)

    Typically, a 1,000 mg fish oil Capsule has 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA

    ALA. Do NOT use cod liver oil on a regular basis, as it’s high vitamin A & D levels can become toxic. A physician should monitor high intakes of these fat-soluble vitamins. Regular EPA-containing fish oils do not contain vitamin A & D.

    Possible Interactions

    If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use omega-3 fatty acid supplements without first talking to your healthcare provider.

    Blood-thinning Medications: Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the blood-thinning effects of aspirin or warfarin. While the combination of aspirin and omega-3 fatty acids may actually be helpful under certain circumstances (such as heart disease), they should only be taken together under the guidance and supervision of a knowledgeable nutritionally-oriented physician.

    Cyclosporine: Taking omega-3 fatty acids during cyclosporine therapy may reduce toxic side effects (such as high blood pressure and kidney damage) associated with this medication in transplant patients.

    Etretinate and Topical Steroids: The addition of omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA) to a drug regimen of etretinate and topical corticosteroids may improve symptoms of psoriasis.

    Cholesterol-lowering Medications: Following certain nutritional guidelines, including increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and reducing the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, may allow a group of cholesterol lowering medications known as “statins” (such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin) to work more effectively.

    Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): In an animal study, treatment with omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk of ulcers from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). More research is needed to evaluate whether omega-3 fatty acids would have the same effects in people.