Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Are Low Fat Diets Helping to Cause Type 2 Diabetes?

Are Low Fat Diets Helping to Cause Type 2 Diabetes?

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health1, in a study funded by the National Institutes of Health, have come to the conclusion that dietary intake of high-fat dairy offers significant protection against developing a variety of metabolic

PRLog (Press Release)Dec 27, 2010 – Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health1, in a study funded by the National Institutes of Health, have come to the conclusion that dietary intake of high-fat dairy offers significant protection against developing a variety of metabolic problems, including the onset of type 2 diabetes. The researchers were stunned to report that Americans with a fatty acid in their blood (trans-palmitoleate), which elevates in direct proportion to the amount of high-fat dairy products that are consumed, had a rather amazing three-fold less likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. The study turns public health dogma about eating a low-fat diet on its head.


The idea that eating a low-fat diet somehow produces health has actually never been proven. It has been proven that overeating is not a good thing, and high fat intake is often a dietary staple of those prone to overeating. It has also been proven that eating a high-fat diet with a deficiency of fiber, plant polyphenols, and DHA is not a good thing. Furthermore, it has been proven that over-eating a diet that is high-sugar and high-fat is one of the fastest ways on earth to become type 2 diabetic. But it has never been proven that fat in and of itself, as a higher percentage of calories of a normal amount of food, has any adverse health consequences.


This study followed 3,736 participants in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-funded Cardiovascular Health Study, who have been followed for 20 years in an observational study to evaluate risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in older adults. Blood samples were collected back in 1992, including an analysis of the fatty acids present in their blood. At baseline, higher circulating levels of trans-palmitoleic acid were associated with healthier levels of blood cholesterol, inflammatory markers, insulin levels, and insulin sensitivity. During follow-up, individuals with higher circulating levels of trans-palmitoleic acid had a much lower risk of developing diabetes, with about a 60% lower risk among participants in the highest quintile (fifth) of trans-palmitoleic acid levels, compared to individuals in the lowest quintile. “This represents an almost three-fold difference in risk of developing diabetes among individuals with the highest blood levels of this fatty acid,” said Mozaffarian, lead author of the study. “This is an extremely strong protective effect, stronger than other things we know can be beneficial against diabetes.”


Unlike dangerous synthetic trans-fats that ruined the health of a generation, this type of trans fat is naturally produced by the digestive tract of a cow. Trans-palmitoleic acid is almost exclusively found in naturally-occurring dairy and meat.

In the new world of nutrition and gene science it is quite clear that fatty acids of different types have different metabolic signaling effects. Trans-palmitoleic acid is associated with higher levels of protective HDL cholesterol, less inflammation, less insulin resistance, better insulin sensitivity, and a significantly reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This means that the concept of “fat grams” as bad is a surface-level notion about health. Those who wish to be proactive about health need to rise above public health nutrition dogma, which is tied closely to the sales of billions and billions of dollars worth of cardiovascular and diabetic medication.

http://www.prlog.org/11178809-are-low-fat-diets-helping-to-cause-type-2-diabetes.html
www.awcsandiego.com

FirstLine Therapy can help you regain health! Illness is not a normal part of aging!








FirstLine Therapy can help you regain health!

Illness is not a normal part of aging!


Did you know:

Chronic diseases account for 78% of annual healthcare costs.1

Chronic diseases also account for one-third of the years of potential life lost before age 65.1

Most chronic diseases are caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits. For example, 91% of type 2 diabetes is caused by unhealthy habits and forms of behavior.2

Chronic, disabling conditions cause major limitations in activity for more than one of every 10 Americans.1

The prolonged course of illness and disability from chronic diseases results in extended pain and suffering and decreased quality of life.1


“Everyhumanbeingistheauthorofhisownhealthordisease.” —GautamaSiddhartha


You can changeyour health Doesn’t everybody want good health? High energy, mental clarity, full function,

and absence of disease well into old age. It’s yours for the taking!

What do you want?

More strength? More sex drive? More energy? Clearer thinking? More “good” days? Less stress? Better mood? Less pain? Better sleep quality? Better mobility? Greater control over health? More independence? More living!?


FirstLine Therapy (FLT) is a specialized therapeutic lifestyle change program unlike any other in that the FLT system targets the underlying causes of chronic illnesses by incorporating a sensible eating plan, exercise, nutritional supplementation, and stress management. In fact, the following key characteristics are unique to the FLT program:

FLT is not just a weight loss program

Most programs are focused on weight while FLT is best used as a first line treatment for common, chronic health problems (e.g., high cholesterol, insulin resistance, unhealthy body composition).

The FLT eating plan is different MostprogramsarefocusedonlowfatdietswhileFLTemphasizestheimportance

of a low-glycemic eating plan that is consistent with current research.

FLT incorporates medical foods and nutritional supplements

The appropriate use of medical foods and supplements enhances program effectiveness and shortens the time it takes for you to achieve risk reduction goals.

FLT has been demonstrated to be effective in human clinical studies Most programs lack clinical evidence of effectiveness.

Getting Started—A Matter of Fat

In order to measure your progress, you first need to know your current health status. A variety of health assessments may be performed, including a quick, non-invasive measurement of your body fat and lean muscle mass.

Excess body fat can greatly increase your health risks. But a higher ratio of muscle increases your metabolism and is associated with a lower incidence of illness. Improving your muscle-to-fat ratio is perhaps the most powerful tool in controlling the aging process and restoring vitality. And that’s what FirstLine Therapy is all about.

Extensive scientific research demonstrates that many of the chronic diseases associated with aging can be prevented or even treated by adopting a healthy lifestyle:

Heart disease High blood pressure Stroke Osteoarthritis

Diabetes High cholesterol Metabolic syndrome Osteoporosis

A therapeutic lifestyle change program is recommended by leading health organizations as a first-line treatment option for many of the conditions above, as well as:

Stress-related disorders Fatigue disorders Polycystic ovary syndrome Premenstrual syndrome

A “therapeutic lifestyle” means...

Making choices every day that will enhance health and help prevent disease

Adopting habits of living that may delay the onset of illness in old age

Increasing your years of good health and full function Enabling yourself to achieve a full, healthy life!

Your personal

FirstLine Therapy

program offers:

Initial and follow-up testing

Practitioner consultations

Program guidebook Solutions for staying

active

Simple eating guidelines

Progress tracking

Lifestyle counseling

Nutritional product recommendations

“A therapeutic lifestyle is the most powerful tool there is to

positively impact your health for life.”


1.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Disease-Overview. Available at http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/overview.htm. Accessed February 19, 2007.

2. Hu FB, Manson JE, Stampfer MJ, et al. Diet, lifestyle, and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in women. N Engl J MedMed 2001;345(11):790-97


www.awcsandiego.com

Top 10 New Years resolutions for 2011








Top 10 New Years resolutions for 2011

With the coming of a fresh year people always strive hard to have a good beginning. Every year most of us make unique and new resolutions. We plan it well and stay determined to fulfill those resolutions. But somehow only a few have the relentlessness to keep up their resolutions.

With the coming of 2010, many people made various resolutions. Some of them might have succeeded and others couldn’t because of the simple reason that they did not try hard enough to fulfill them. No matter how successful you were in 2010, the new year, 2011 will be your year to have a new beginning and start with a fresh zeal. If you haven’t made your list of resolutions yet, here are the top 10 New Year’s resolutions for 2011 to see if they can be applied to your life.

1. Lose Weight

This is probably one of the resolutions which are common to many people who always dream of having a beautiful and lean body. Was this one of your resolutions from past year? If so, be encouraged this year to follow it until you see positive results. Make a plan of what you will give up (late night snacks, that extra meal) in exchange for a lean body. You only have to make this shift once in your lifetime to get lasting results.

2. Getting Organized

Punctuality and organization is very crucial in a man’s life. People should always organize things accordingly and never delay any work what so ever. Work planning is very important both in office and also in home. The 2011 resolution must also include being organized and well planned. This will not only help in becoming a disciplined person but can also help in earning appreciation. In life problems are inevitable but handling these problems in planned and organized way is the main thing. Therefore a person’s resolution must include being disciplined. Simple things such as making a daily goal list before you start the day can go a long way.

3. Spend Less, Save More

How did you do financially in 2010? Many people spend money on unnecessary things without any justification. Money is an important thing in life and should be spent very carefully no matter how rich a person may be. Here’s a simple rule for you to follow in 2011. Before you buy something, always spend some time justifying the reason. You should spend the same amount of time it took you to earn that money on reasoning before you buy. If you do this, you will be able to cut most of the impulse purchases and you will be drawn to a better deal elsewhere.

4. Enjoy life to the Fullest

Life comes once and should be enjoyed as much as possible in the right way. Staying alone and isolated, and staying morose does not help. It is an individual’s duty to motivate oneself more and more so that they can reach the goal that they intend for. As the years are passing by, you are moving closer to the end of life. This should be seen as a positive aspect in life, because it encourages you to enjoy what you have in your life right now. Therefore make a resolution to find a reason everyday to enjoy life, enjoy everything that you do and enjoy every little moment in life, and then the life becomes worth living.

5. Staying Fit and Healthy

There are many people who lead a much undisciplined life and do not take care of their health. Staying physically and mentally fit should be another important resolution which can change your life positively and effectively. Regular exercise for half an hour everyday can help a lot in keeping mental peace.

6. Learn Something Exciting

Time waits for none and it should never be wasted. There are so many things that a person might engage himself or herself into apart from what they do. Where do you waste most of your time everyday? Do you spend idle time during waiting for the bus or train? Carry a book or an audio book on your career or profession every time you travel. Can you cut down on the time you spend watching TV, and learn a new skill? You’re never too young or old to learn a new skill. Therefore, make a resolution to upgrade your skills.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking is injurious to health and it is known to all. Many people cannot give up smoking even after trying a lot. If you’re still addicted, your 2011 resolution should be to quit smoking. It will not only help you, but it will help everyone else whom you see everyday.

8. Helping Others in Their Dreams

Everybody thinks about oneself but there are few people who care for others. A great resolution is to help others. It always feels very nice to know that our actions can make other people smile and this is something to be proud about. You don’t need to be rich to help others. You can help others in 2011 with your time and skills. The more you help others, later you will also receive favors from other people because of the law of reciprocity.

9. Fall in Love

Love is a wonderful feeling, a feeling that comes from within. Are you in a relationship and is it the time to get engaged?, or is it the time to find someone in your life to share your experiences with? It’s never too late to fall in love.

10. Spend More Time with Family

Your 2011 resolutions should include loving family members. Every family member is dependent on each other and so spending time with family is very essential. An individual stays with its family for most of the time and should devote as much time as possible. Something that most successful businessmen and women regret is not spending enough time with their families when they could’ve. Spending time with the family gives a person a chance to know each other, share feelings with each other, share joy and sorrow. This is indeed an important resolution that will give you fulfillment in life.

These were some of the top 10 chosen resolution for year 2011. Some of them may be applicable for your and some may not. However, 2011 is a new beginning in your life. Create your own list of resolutions and make a quantum leap in your life this new year!

http://www.2011resolutions.org/

www.awcsandiego.com

TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH!






FREE WORKSHOP!

TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH!

“Alternative Approaches to Preventing and Handling Common Illnesses”


Do You Suffer From:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Osteoporosis
  • Stress-related disorders
  • Fatigue disorders
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Premenstrual syndrome
  • Menopause
  • Prostate problems
  • Conditions related to overweight & obesity

Do You Wonder What’s Wrong and How to FIX it? Find Out …..

Wednesday, January 5th, 2011 6:30-7:30pm

Mission Valley Library in the Community Room

Call NOW to register! (619)4-HEALTH (443-2584)

••••Light snacks will be provided!••••

SEATING IS LIMITED SIGN UP TODAY!


Monday, December 20, 2010

How Is It that We Eat More and Get Less?







How Is It that We Eat More and Get Less?

Why We’re Getting Fewer Nutrients


According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 80% of women and 70% of men consume less than two-thirds of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for one or more essential nutrients.


What are nutrients?

There are two types of nutrients. Macronutrients include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals found in dietary sources that fuel proper body functioning, such as vitamins A, C, B12, D, calcium, magnesium, and iron.


Why is it most of us don’t get enough nutrients?

Reason #1: We eat empty calories (foods that contain little nutritional value), such as: Heavily Processed Foods, Baked Goods, Soda, Candy, and Desserts

Reason #2: Most people don’t know that many aspects of daily living can increase the level of nutrients your body needs, accelerate nutrient losses, or impair proper nutrient absorption. These include:


AntacidsCertain antacids might block the absorption of nutrients such as calcium or iron. Long- term antacid use in some cases has been associated with nutritional deficiencies.

CaffeineThe tannins in coffee and tea can interfere with absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Because caffeine has a diuretic action, it also might deplete nutrients such as vitamin B6. Caffeine can also increase emotional stress (see Emotional Stress below), increase cravings for unhealthy foods, and cause heartburn (see Antacids above).

SurgeryRecovery from surgery (like any illness or injury) requires additional nutrients, such as protein and antioxidants. Some surgical procedures (gastric bypass, intestinal resection) can also permanently affect dietary absorption of important nutrients such as vitamin B12.

PregnancyMothers need additional nutrients such as folic acid in pregnancy. Nutritional deficiencies may force the mother and fetus to compete for nutrients and might lead to complications for either or both. Nutrient depletion also sets the stage for postpartum ailments such as depression.

Influenza (the Flu)A body depleted of nutrients not only makes a better host for infectious diseases like the flu but also increases the body’s need for antioxidants (E, C, beta carotene) found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. A healthy balance of intestinal bacteria also positively influences the body’s immune system and can be fostered by a healthy diet and probiotics.

Emotional StressIn addition to physical stress, the body might encounter increased nutritional needs (like vitamin C) due to emotional stress—which can also cause unhealthy eating. And a poor diet—lacking in protein, Essential Fatty Acids, and key vitamins—on its own can be the cause of emotional stress. Stress also restricts the body’s flow of blood (which carries nutrients) by tightening muscles.

Prescription/OTC DrugsCorticosteroids can inhibit calcium absorption, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can deplete B vitamins, statin medications can deplete essential CoQ10, and certain weight loss drugs or “fat blockers” can reduce the absorption of other nutrients—just to name a few. Plus, some foods and nutritional supplements should be taken separately from certain medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for details.


Your Doctor Might Recommend...

Supplements for Better Health


Along with a healthy eating plan, regular exercise, adequate rest and relaxation, your physician might recommend specific supplements to ensure you receive enough nutrients. Some of the things he or she might recommend are:


EFAs

Essential fatty acids (EFAs, such as omega-3 found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) are important for about every function in our bodies. Unlike the fat contained in cookies and cakes, these fats (when taken properly) can have a dramatic effect on health and vitality. And, since it’s difficult to get all the EFAs we might need from foods without eating large quantities of fish, a supplement is often recommended.

Probiotics

We’ve been hearing a lot about these recently. The term probiotic refers to friendly bacteria that live in our intestines. It may not sound too appealing, but these friendly bacteria work hard to keep us healthy by aiding in our digestion, supporting regular bowel movements, and supporting our immune systems. While certain yogurts have certified “live and active” bacteria cultures, they might also contain a lot of sugar, fruit syrups, and empty calories.

Fiber

Americans are averaging about 10 grams-15 grams of fiber per day; the recommended intake by health organizations is 20 grams-35 grams. Fiber also has broad-ranging health effects like supporting a healthy colon and cholesterol levels, and aiding in managing weight. It’s important to add fiber supplements slowly in graduated amounts with plenty of fluids to allow your digestive system to adjust.

Meal Replacement

A nutritious beverage containing optimal ratios of protein, carbohydrates, fat, and other essential nutrients can work to help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent hunger surges and cravings. And, with the busy schedules most of us keep these days, a good meal replacement can save us time.


What you need to know about quality:


You should understand that not all nutritional supplement manufacturers meet the same standards. It’s best to look for companies that are certified by the Natural Products Association and NSF for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). These companies are audited to ensure good manufacturing practices are followed and, therefore, quality products are produced. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider to recommend a brand of safe and effective supplements manufactured by a company with history, longevity, respect in the marketplace, and certified GMP manufacturing.


Make your appointment at one of our clinics to have a brief nutritional consultation to learn about our new detox and therapeutic lifestyle program. Take back your health is 2011! Call now and mention this blog! (619)339-3482.


www.awcsandiego.com