Tag Archives: Respiratory System

Ailments and Conditions, Blends and Mixtures, FAQ's/ ABC's, Quick Tips, Vitamins and Minerals

Debating Titanium Dioxide

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Element Titanium

Sometime ago, a young woman came into the supplement store looking for a titanium dioxide free iron supplement. She began telling me about the research on this ingredient and the reports that it was carcinogenic. She then went on to ask why a vitamin maker would use a whitening agent only to then turn around and dye the supplement another color. The absurdity behind this process was so conspicuous; I admittedly felt a little dumbfounded. I honestly had no answer for her other than the possibility of market research leading manufacturers to believe we consumers prefer pretty colored pills to naturally hued, and whitening a substance’s natural color probably allowed another color to take better. We both had to tilt our heads and roll our eyes as the words tumbled out and over themselves, but in that moment I decided to look into the meat of the issue and find out the deal with TD.

From the research I’ve read so far, much of the studies done on the carcinogenicity of titanium dioxide have been performed on rats, not unusual, and with powdered TD. Many of these studies did find that prolonged and excessive – six hours per day, five days per week, for two years- exposure of lab rats to TD dust did result in lung tumor development. And some of these studies did acknowledge the marked difference between the ways the body of a rat processes powders and dust particles in comparison to those of larger mammals like primates and humans. There are also studies, dating as far back as the 1960’s and conducted on larger mammals and humans, that tested the amounts of titanium dioxide present in the body after ingesting the substance through the diet over extended periods of time. These studies stated that no detectable amounts of TD were found in the urine, blood, kidneys or liver, giving way to the determination that dietary consumption of titanium dioxide did not lead to its absorption and thus accumulation within the human body.

So, surprise surprise, it’s a mixed bag. Findings like these enable the FDA to deem it safe for use and consumption. And boy oh boy is it used.

If you’ve become the diligent ingredient label reader I’ve encouraged, then you know what I’m talking about. TD can be found in everything from our multi colored multi vitamins to our body lotions and cosmetics. And because it occurs naturally in several minerals, it is widely used in mineral based make-up, especially the powdered foundations, bronzers, eye shadows and blushes.

So are there any benefits? Probably the more pointed question is whether the substance serves any function, has any use?

Titanium dioxide results from oxygenation of the widely present element titanium. Its strength and resistance to breakdown, along with its pigmentation make it a successful thickening and whitening agent for a variety of products like paints, inks, pills, toothpastes, cosmetics, foods and beverages. In addition, it is an able ultra violet light absorber and thus popular component of sunscreens and blocks. But is it truly, ultimately safe; and if so, then why the fuss?

Titanium_Dioxide_43Well it turns out that the nano-sized, ultra small particle form of TD is of concern to researchers. And many of them view the synthesized state as the real threat because this form is more susceptible to collisions/reactions with other particles and can potentially infiltrate otherwise protected areas of the body. It is these traits that make for an unpredictable agent with unforeseeable consequences, and thus no definitive answer to the question of long term safety.

Given the particular concern being powdered titanium dioxide and its impact on our lungs, the greater danger may be in our exposure to the inhalable forms and not the ingestible. Only time will tell for sure, but it is certainly our prerogative to play it safe. These manufacturers may provide some effective alternatives to their TD containing counterparts.

For titanium dioxide free mineral cosmetics: http://www.rejuvaminerals.com/store/titanium.html
For nanoparticle free sunscreens and blocks: http://mexitan.com/

As for ingestible products containing titanium dioxide, opting for clear veggie gel capped supplements or color free pills and tablets is a relatively easy adjustment. New Chapter, NOW and Source Naturals all offer TD free vitamin and mineral options in their supplement lines. Finding a medication that is free of titanium dioxide is probably more challenging; but when faced with the need for immediate care, healing in the now naturally takes priority over questions of future challenges. For those needing to take medications over an extended period of time, there should be no hesitation in asking about any additional ingredients or additives that cause concern. Let us remember that these are our bodies, nourished by our minds and without peace of that mind, health cannot truly be obtained.

Until next time…

Be Informed, Be Selective

BeWell

Sources

http://ezinearticles.com/?Titanium-Dioxide:-Toxic-or-Safe?&id=34675

http://www.eoearth.org/article/Nanoparticles

http://www.gcsescience.com/a37-nano-science-nanoparticles.htm

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Ailments and Conditions, Antioxidants and Superfoods, Herbs, Herbal Formulations, Quick Tips

Stress Buster, Gut Blaster, Mind Mender-What Doesn’t Rhodiola Do?

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Greetings folks, during last week’s post I proclaimed  Resvitale’s  Cocoa Energy Restore my little holiday secret, not only for its energizing and mood enhancing powers but also for its inclusion of three highly regarded adaptogenic herbs- Schisandra, Ashwagandha and Rhodiola. Quick study break:

“Adaptogens deliver minute shocks of mild stress that condition your physiology to respond to more major stresses in a favorable way. Adaptogens exert a normalizing effect, allowing organisms to increase healthy functions that are impaired by stress, and to decrease unhealthy responses that are triggered by stress, without any risk of ‘overshooting’ and creating an unbalanced response…adaptogens simply enhance the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis and fight age-inducing stress.”*

So, as the season of giving rolls in, I’ve been paying particular attention to how much I give in to anxiety and lack-luster energy. I haven’t researched the exact stats, but I’d venture to say that this time of year is at least one of the most marred by those annoying, albeit momentarily, incapacitating little illnesses.  AND I REFUSE TO GO DOWN LIKE THAT!!!  Sorry to be so aggressive in my declaration, but I am extra determined this year. Anyhoo, in my quest for efficient and cost-effective ways to stay healthy, invigorated and yet still at Level 2 (as my friends say), I’ve directed my attention to the class of nutrients most qualified for the job. Now, I admit that I tend to fall fast. Frankly, I first developed a serious infatuation with Schisandra and Ashwagandha because their names are so dog gone cool. And now, I am seeing that Rhodiola too is a genuine keeper. Let’s get started.

Rhodiola Rosea typically grows in colder, mountainous environments and has been used for centuries by natives of Central Asia and Northern Europe to combat the resulting stresses in living with the colder temperatures and higher altitudes of those regions. The root of this flowering plant has and continues to be the more studied part and is therefore most commonly supplemented. There are many healthful nutrients contained within Rhodiola giving it the ability to serve in several different capacities including antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial. By definition, adaptogens work their magic in a number of different ways through various biological systems, but what I find most appealing and seasonally appropriate about this one is its ability to 1) reduce our production of the stress hormone cortisol 2) seemingly outwit anxiety and 3) prevent toxin induced stress to liver cells. Let’s be real, this time of year can usher in a serious case of the “I need a stiff one to take the edge off’s”, so (not suggesting a means to over indulge in unhealthy behavior) any assistance in the area of damage control is much appreciated.

Our #1 Frenemy 

Cortisol is the hormone released by our bodies when we encounter stressful situations. In short bursts for brief periods of time it helps us to survive what the mind perceives to be threatening circumstances. Remember the “stress response” cycle that kicks in gear when confronted with these scenarios– rush of adrenaline, increased heart rate and blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. It serves our survival in the short-term, but can dramatically cut our life span in the long. Frequent, repeated release of cortisol with little to no recovery time between is a consequence of chronic stress, and the dangers of chronically elevated cortisol are weight gain in the abdomen (more work for the heart), hypertension, hyperglycemia and suppression of immune function. Rhodiola confronts the stress response cycle by acting directly on,” the brain – adrenal gland system to reduce cortisol production while enhancing stress resistance…”*

So, less cortisol without losing the ability to perform and overcome stress, I’ll take it.

Fear Factor

In studies conducted on actual human subjects (not that mice don’t have their problems too, but…), participants struggling with symptoms of general anxiety disorder-frequent, excessive worry, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, sleep disturbances-experienced significant reductions in their symptoms after receiving 340mg of Rhodiola Rosea extract daily for 10 weeks.

Ok ten weeks, taking us through the New Year and straight into the recovery phase. Something to look forward to.

Liver Lover

The liver acts as our body’s filter. Macro and micro nutrients, hormones, supplements, medications, alcohol and an innumerable amount of other substances are processed by the liver. In many ways, our body’s health depends on our liver. As an antioxidant, Rhodiola protects the cells of the liver from damage by toxins and other stressors. It has also shown the capacity to reduce liver dysfunction and even restore the liver’s own natural antioxidants.

Whether you’re boosting your immunity with vitamins, your disposition with spirits, or your recovery with medication, you can’t go wrong caring for the liver.

And If That Weren’t Enough

Rhodiola is also known to:

  • Improve physical performance by increasing oxygen intake and decreasing muscle damage
  • Decrease inflammation
  • Protect and restore brain cells
  • Enhance immune function
  • Inhibit cancer cell growth
  • Slow the aging process

Rhodiola can be supplemented alone or in combination with other adaptogens. Beware of supplements that only contain extractions of the Rhodiola constituent Saldroside. Many manufacturers believe it to be the most healthful nutrient in the herb, and only supply that. Opt for the whole root extractions instead because there are many other beneficial nutrients within the Rhodiola herb. And, as with most herbs, the nutrients within are each naturally present in the most healthful amounts and balanced in a way that best compliments the other components. Choose a supplement that provides about 200-300mg of Rhodiola Rosea root extract per serving, standardized to supply the individual constituents of the herb in the amounts most consistent with the natural plant. Nature knows best. Trust in her and as always…

BeWell

*Jan Whiticomb, “Reducing the Risks of High Cortisol,” LifeExtension September/October 2011: 46 and 49.

Antioxidants and Superfoods, FAQ's/ ABC's, Herbs, Herbal Formulations, Quick Tips

Keeping it Clean

8 Comments

First and foremost, thank you for visiting and supporting BeWellWarrior. Your comments and questions are much appreciated and I’m thrilled to have offered useful info for some and simply shared a similar experience with others.  On that note, let’s jump right into last week’s most frequently posed question.

Cleansing…

It’s perfectly logical with the onset of summer. A change in season often signals us to take special care in tidying and cleaning our homes, and feeling inspired to do the same for the body is a natural extension of this instinct. Cleansing gives the body the opportunity to rid itself of accumulated waste from undigested foods, preservatives, additives and other substances absorbed from the environment like exhaust, fumes, and even chemicals from water, detergents and cosmetics.

Signs that it may be time to cleanse:

  • Feelings of lethargy and/or irritability
  • Indigestion, constipation or irregular bowel movements
  • Fluid retention and bloating
  • Skin eruptions such as acne and/or rashes
  • Dullness or discoloration in the whites of the eyes
  • Phlegm and lung congestion
  • Dizziness, migraines or headaches
  • Nausea, gas and weight loss

The types of symptoms you are experiencing will help determine which organs and systems are affected, what types of cleansers are appropriate, and which nutrients may be helpful.

lethargy , irritability Liver  dandelion, milk thistle
indigestion , constipation Colon/Intestinal Tract plantain herb, cascara sagrada, psyllium
fluid retention Kidneys and Urinary Tract cranberry, uva ursi
skin eruptions Blood red clover leaf, echinacea*
lung congestion Respiratory System mullein
dizziness, migraines Heavy Metal Toxicity** glutathione, NAC ( n-acetyl-cysteine )
nausea , weight loss Parasite Infection** goldenseal, wormwood

*Speak with your physician first if you are taking cholesterol lowering medications.

**Consult with your physician for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

When we experience more than one of these symptoms simultaneously,  are planning to change our diet (i.e. switching to vegetarianism, starting a weight loss program), or its been more than six months since our last cleanse, a total body detox may be warranted.

Renew Life’s line includes a first timers’ total body cleansing system that is both gentle and effective. The line also carries heavy metal and parasite removal systems. Nature’s Secret makes colon and total body cleansers including, my system of choice, the Ultimate Cleanse. This is a strong system that works through all of the body’s elimination channels. It also contains laxative herbs that can make using it during a busy week less than ideal. I’d suggest taking a probiotic complex afterward to replace the protective bacteria stripped by the process, especially if you are planning to travel out of your home country or spend time in any environment that might stress the immune system.

How should I prepare for a cleanse?

Because cleansing can weaken the body’s defenses, doing so while you are fighting or recuperating from an illness is not advised. Strengthen the body with vegetables, whole grains and highly nutritious foods. Take your multi-vitamin for a nutritional boost before the cleanse.

How long should the cleanse last?

Depending on your individual constitution and type of cleanser used, detoxification can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of months. The length of time you choose to cleanse should be determined by the demands of your lifestyle, your current state of health, and your goals for cleansing. If your current daily life involves a lot of multi-tasking and errand running, you may want to wait until you have a period of downtime as the process can be draining. If you are cleansing to prepare for a dramatic change in your diet or lifestyle, then you may benefit from the discipline required to complete a month-long program.

Do I have to fast while cleansing?

Though fasting is used as a cleansing method, it is neither necessary for thorough cleansing nor appropriate for everyone’s lifestyle. Eating light, simple and wholesome meals is fine, and choosing organic and fresh or minimally processed foods over fast and frozen is even better. Fruit naturally detoxifies and helps the process along. If you can eliminate complex seasonings and complicated food combinations, this will help reduce the body’s workload and give it more energy to cleanse and repair itself. Drinking 8-10 glasses of filtered water is also important as it helps flush accumulated toxins from the body.

Most importantly, have patience with the cleansing process and respond to your body’s needs. The subsequent after glow and light energetic feelings are worth it. 

As Always, BeWell!