Complete Health

Are dietary supplements important for good health?

A good diet is the foundation for better health. But, whether by choice or circumstance, even the most well intended among us doesn’t always eat the way we should. That’s where a sensible supplementation program may help. In addition to helping meet your essential nutrient needs, supplements are backed by a growing body of scientific research that continues to support their health benefits. Read on to learn more about how dietary supplements can support good health and the growing number of people enjoying the healthy habit of supplementing.

Dietary supplements are backed by scientific research
Several research studies report that most Americans fail to consume the recommended amounts of a variety of essential nutrients each day. 1,2,3 Therefore, a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement is an ideal way to help fill the nutrient gaps that may be in your diet.

In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), one of the government agencies that regulates the dietary supplement industry, has approved specific health claims based on the body of scientific research for several dietary ingredients, including calcium for bone health; omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber and vegetable oil sterol esters for heart health; and folic acid for a healthy pregnancy.4†

Furthermore, the FDA has established a variety of qualified health claims for certain dietary ingredients. The health claims for these ingredients are qualified because the FDA has determined that although some scientific research supports a certain health benefit, the research is currently limited and/or inconclusive. The ingredients and claims include; calcium and colon/rectal cancer; green tea and cancer; selenium and cancer; vitamin E and/or C and certain forms of cancer; vitamins B6, B12 and/or folic acid and vascular disease; phosphatidylserine and cognitive function; and chromium picolinate, insulin resistance and diabetes.5†

Consumers believe supplements keep them healthy

If you choose to supplement, consider yourself in good company. According to an October 2005 Barometer Survey, a nationwide online poll conducted by the Natural Marketing Institute, 85 percent of the population is currently using some type of dietary supplement and believes that using nutritional supplements can keep them healthier. Furthermore, 70 percent of those polled said they believe that being healthier through dietary supplements will reduce their overall health care costs and that dietary supplements should be covered by their health insurance.6

References

  1. Block G. Foods contributing to energy intake in the US: data from NHANES III and NHANES 1999–2000. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 2004;17:439-447
  2. United States Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005. Available at: http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/document/pdf/Chapter2.pdf
  3. Serdula MK, Gillespie C, Kettel-Khan L, et al. Trends in fruit and vegetable consumption among adults in the United States: behavioral risk factor surveillance system, 1994–2000. Am J Pub Health. 2004;94: 1014-1018. PMID: 15249308
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. A Food Labeling Guide (Health Claims). Available at: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/flg-6c.html.
  5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Qualified Health Claims Subject to Enforcement Discretion. Available at: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/qhc-sum.html
  6. Dietary Supplement Education Alliance. Nutritional Supplement Barometer Study, 2005 Report. Available at: http://www.supplementinfo.org/anm/articlefiles/264-DSEA_Supplement_Barometer_Survey_Executive.pdf.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Can you offer nutrition tips for eye health?

Good nutrition is essential to help maintain your eyes’ natural defenses against the tolls of modern life. With all your eyes endure everyday — glaring computer screens, fluorescent lights, sunlight, pollution, cigarette smoke—nourishing your eyes with a healthy diet and supplement program should be a priority. Research indicates that nutrients such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin may play a role in eye health.† Read on to learn more about these nutrients, their food sources and how they protect eye health.

Help preserve your eyesight with good nutrition

  • Beta-carotene. Your body can snap this nutrient in half to produce vision-protecting vitamin A,1 so include at least one fruit or veggie that’s rich in beta-carotene in your diet every day. It’s easy if you think orange — carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe or squash are great sources of beta-carotene and are packed with a variety of other healthful nutrients.†
  • Lutein and zeaxanthin. Nutrition experts point to these naturally occurring plant compounds as two of the most important weapons in our arsenal for protecting eye health.2-5 Green leafy veggies such as spinach, kale, and turnip greens are a rich source of lutein and zeaxanthin. While these vegetables may not be everyone’s favorite, they pack a power punch when it comes to preserving eyesight. If you must pass on the greens, get your lutein and zeaxanthin from corn, egg yolks, broccoli, and kiwi.†
  • Zinc. Because this trace mineral makes a beeline to the retina and choroid areas of your eye, researchers speculate on a connection between zinc status and optimal eye health.6,7 Eat for zinc by choosing mushrooms, pork, beef, peas, shrimp and pumpkin seeds.†
  • Antioxidants. Several research studies have report eye health benefits with combined antioxidant supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene.8-10 Important food sources of vitamin C include bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries and many other fruits and vegetables. Rich food sources of vitamin E include nuts, leafy greens, vegetable oil and fortified cereals.†

How does nutrition play a role in eye health?

  • Lutein and zeaxanthin are the two carotenoids known to concentrate specifically in eye tissues.11,12 Results from several human studies indicate that higher levels of these carotenoids in the retina lead to higher macular pigment density, which is associated with good eye health.13-15 In addition to improving macular pigment density, researchers believe lutein and zeaxanthin help protect eyes from oxidative damage that may occur from overexposure to ultraviolet light.16†
  • Research suggests that vitamins C and E may also help support eye health by protecting against exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.17-20 In 2001, a six-year study, sponsored by the National Eye Institute, found that people receiving an antioxidant supplement plus zinc had improved eye health.21 The supplement included the antioxidant trio vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene along with zinc.†
  • Two additional clinical trials sponsored by the National Eye Institute are evaluating the effects of a combined antioxidant supplement, lutein, zeaxanthin or omega-3 fats from fish oil for their potential to benefit eye health.22†

There’s no doubt about it, preserving your eyesight starts with a balanced diet. But you can easily add extra nutritional support for your eyes with a few smart supplement choices. First choose a comprehensive multivitamin such as Natrol® My Favorite Multiple® to help meet your body’s need for antioxidants. Then, add a supplement that specifically targets eye health such as Natrol® Eye Support Formula with lutein and herbal support. A healthy diet and sensible supplementation delivers the nutrition you need to preserve your healthy vision.†

References
  1. Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Sperduto RD, et al. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group. JAMA. 1994; 272: 1413-1420.
  2. Richer S, Stiles W, Statkute L, et al. Double-masked, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of lutein and antioxidant supplementation in the intervention of atrophic age-related macular degeneration: the Veterans LAST study (Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial). Optometry. 2004;75:216-230.
  3. Landrum JT, Bone RA. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and the macular pigment. Arch Biochem Biophys. 2001;385:28-40.
  4. Thomson LR, Toyoda Y, Delori FC, et al. Long Term Dietary Supplementation with Zeaxanthin Reduces Photoreceptor Death in Light-damaged Japanese Quail. Exp Eye Res. 2002;75:529-542.
  5. Landrum J. A one year study of the macular pigment: the effect of 140 days of a lutein supplement. Exp Eye Res. 1997;65:57-62.
  6. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss: AREDS report no. 8. Arch Ophthalmol. 2001;10:1417-1436.
  7. Newsome DA, Swartz M, Leone NC, et al. Oral zinc in macular degeneration. Arch Ophthalmol. 1988;106:192-198.
  8. Chylack LT Jr, Brown NP, Bron A, et al. The Roche European American Cataract Trial (REACT): a randomized clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of an oral antioxidant micronutrient mixture to slow progression of age-related cataract. Ophthalmic Epidemiol. 2002;9:49-80.
  9. Jacques PF, Chylack LT Jr, Hankinson SE, et al. Long-term nutrient intake and early age-related nuclear lens opacities. Arch Ophthalmol. 2001;119:1009-19.
  10. VandenLangenberg GM, Mares-Perlman JA, Klein R, et al. Associations between antioxidant and zinc intake and the 5-year incidence of early age-related maculopathy in the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Am J Epidemiol. 1998;148:204-214.
  11. Snodderly, DM. Evidence for protection against age-related macular degeneration by carotenoids and antioxidant vitamins. Am J Clin Nutr. 1995;62:1448S-1461S.
  12. Berendschot TT, Goldbohm RA, Klopping WA, et al. Influence of lutein supplementation on macular pigment, assessed with two objective techniques. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2000;41:3322-3326.
  13. Olmedilla B, Granado F, Blanco I, Vaquero M. Lutein, but not alpha-tocopherol, supplementation improves visual function in patients with age-related cataracts: a 2-y double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Nutrition. 2003;19:21-24.
  14. Broekmans WM, Berendschot TT, Klopping-Ketelaars IA, et al. Macular pigment density in relation to serum and adipose tissue concentrations of lutein and serum concentrations of zeaxanthin. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002;76:595-603.
  15. Delcourt C, Carriere I, Delage M, et al. Plasma lutein and zeaxanthin and other carotenoids as modifiable risk factors for age-related maculopathy and cataract: the POLA Study. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2006;47:2329-2335.
  16. Sujak, A Gabrielska J, Grudzinski W, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin as protectors of lipid membranes against oxidative damage: the structural aspects. Arch Biochem Biophys. 1999;371:301-307.
  17. Jacques PF, Chylack LT Jr, Hankinson SE, et al. Long-term nutrient intake and early age-related nuclear lens opacities. Arch Ophthalmol 2001;119:1009-1019.
  18. Reddy GB, Bhat KS. Protection against UVB inactivation (in vitro) of rat lens enzymes by natural antioxidants. Mol Cell Biochem. 1999;194:41-45.
  19. Seth RK, Kharb S. Protective function of alpha-tocopherol against the process of cataractogenesis in humans. Ann Nutr Metab. 1999;43:286-289.
  20. Organisciak DT, Want HM, Li Z, et al. The protective effect of ascorbate in retinal light damage of rats. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1985;26:1580-1588.
  21. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss: AREDS report no. 8. Arch Ophthalmol. 2001;119:1417-1436.
  22. Clinicaltrials.gov. National Eye Institute sponsored clinical research. Available at: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/search;jsessionid=F84D2E918AC41F1EB3233E6DD5F95A3F?term=lutein .

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Do omega-3 fats offer bone health benefits?

Yes; a growing body of evidence indicates that omega-3 fats may play a role in helping build strong bones. Preliminary evidence in animals and humans suggest that these essential fats influence bone mineral density.1,2 More recently, researchers report omega-3 fats may offer bone-building benefits for young men.† Read on to learn more about the recent research, current dietary intakes and ways to improve your omega-3 status.

Omega-3’s boost bone mass in young men

Recent findings published in the March 2007 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition3 indicate that the concentration of omega-3 fats in the body is positively associated with bone mineral density in the total body and spine and with bone mineral accrual in the spine. Researchers in Sweden followed 78 healthy young men from about 16 years of age up until age 24. The researchers conducted bone mineral density tests over the course of the study. At the end of the study, the amount of omega-3 fats in the body were measured and compared to bone mineral density.†

The result? The young men with the highest concentration of omega-3 fatty acids were more likely to have greater bone mineral density. This correlation was particularly evident when the researchers evaluated the amount of DHA in the body. DHA is a specific omega-3 fat obtained predominantly from fatty fish and fish oil. EPA, another omega-3 fat, is found in combination with DHA in fish and fish oil.†

Omega-3’s may influence the function of bone cells

Researchers aren’t exactly sure how omega-3 fats help to build strong bones, but experimental studies suggest that omega-3 fats influence the activity of specific bone cells. For instance, animal studies1,4 have shown that omega-3 fats can influence both bone formation as well as reduce the activity of cells that break down bone, thereby potentially decreasing overall bone loss.†

Current dietary intakes are inadequate

Most North Americans eat very little fish and consume, on average, less than 100 mg of EPA and DHA per day.5 While a recommended daily intake for EPA and DHA has yet to be established in the United States, a number of other countries (Canada, Sweden, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan) recommend a combined intake of EPA and DHA in the range of 300 to 500 mg/day.6 This indicates a need for more foods rich in EPA and DHA and dietary supplements to help fill this nutritional gap.

Ways to improve your omega-3 intake

The human body is unable to manufacture essential omega-3 fats so you need to obtain them through the diet – every day. Start by regularly eating foods rich in omega-3 fats. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are great food sources. Also, consider flax seed, walnuts, leafy green vegetables, soybeans and tofu, which are good sources of omega-3 fats.

Add a daily supplement to help bridge the gap between what your body needs and what’s provided in your typical diet. The Natrol® brand offers a full line of omega-3 supplements, with a pleasant lemon flavor, such as Omega-3 Fish Oil (1,000 mg), Omega-3 Fish Oil (1,200 mg), Extreme Omega™, and Omega-3-6-9 to help you meet your daily omega-3 intake.

For extra protection for bone and joint health, consider Natrol’s innovative product, Omega-3 Glucosamine, which combines the most beneficial ingredients shown to assist with joint care – glucosamine and chondroitin – with a concentrated dose of the omega-3 fats, EPA and DHA.†

References

 

  1. Watkins BA, Li Y, Seifert MF. Nutraceutical fatty acids as biochemical and molecular modulators of skeletal biology. J Am Coll Nutr. 2001;20:410S-416S.
  2. Weiss LA, Barrett-Connor E, von Mühlen D. Ratio of n–6 to n–3 fatty acids and bone mineral density in older adults: the Rancho Bernardo Study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005;81:934-938.
  3. Hogstrom M, Nordstrom P, Nordstrom A. n-3 Fatty acids are positively associated with peak bone mineral density and bone accrual in healthy men: the NO2 study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;85:803-807.
  4. Watkins BA, Li Y, Lippman HE, et al. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and skeletal health. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2001;226:485-497.
  5. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Evidence Report Number 94: Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Cardiovascular Disease. March 2004. Available at: http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/tp/o3cardtp.htm.
  6. Kris-Etherton PM, Harris WS, Appel LJ. American Heart Association. AHA scientific statement: fish consumption, fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, and cardiovascular disease. Circulation 2002;106:2747-2757.

 

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Any nutrition tips for sexual health?

For sexual health, the basics still apply — a balanced diet, physical fitness, healthy sleep, stress management and avoiding toxins such as tobacco, illicit drugs and excessive alcohol consumption.1,2 But keeping your sex life in high gear really starts with nourishing your body. Here are my three need-to-have nutrition tips for sexual health. Read on to learn more.

#1 – Make everyday nourishing a habit

Eating a balanced diet every day is essential for sexual health, especially for men.2 In fact, researchers recently reported that men who eat a more balanced diet with lean meats, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products are less likely to experience poor sexual function.3 Today’s hectic lifestyle makes it difficult to always eat the way you should, so consider taking a daily multivitamin, such as Natrol® My Favorite Multiple® Original Iron Free to help bridge the gap between an inadequate nutrient intake and what your body needs for optimal health.†

#2 – Nourish for optimal circulation

Healthy blood flow is critical for sexual health, so keep your blood moving by eating foods rich in healthy omega-3 fats, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel4,5 or adding an omega-3 supplement such as Natrol® Extreme Omega to your supplement program.†

Natrol® Ginkgo Biloba6,7 can also help promote healthy circulation as can the amino acid L-arginine.8 Foods rich in L-arginine and a variety of other key nutrients essential for nourishing your blood vessels include granola, oatmeal, walnuts, dark chocolate, soybeans, poultry and fish.9†

#3 –Watch your fat intake

Too much saturated fat may, over time, clog arteries and, reduce blood flow to the genital region. This can interfere with your ability to perform and your sexual pleasure. Reduce your intake of red meat, butter, full-fat dairy products, and fat-laden sweet treats and desserts. Instead opt for more healthy fats from olive oil, avocado, salmon, nuts and seeds.

References

  1. Bacon CG, Mittleman MA, Kawachi I, et al. Sexual function in men older than 50 years of age: results from the health professionals follow-up study. Ann Intern Med. 2003;139:161-168.
  2. Medline Plus. Erection Problems. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003164.htm Accessed on July 25, 2007.
  3. Giugliano D, Giugliano F, Esposito K. Sexual dysfunction and the Mediterranean diet. Public Health Nutr. 2006;9:1118-1120.
  4. Walser B, Giordano RM, Stebbins CL. Supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids augments brachial artery dilation and blood flow during forearm contraction. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2006;97: 347-354.
  5. Goodfellow J, Bellamy MF, Ramsey MW, et al. Dietary supplementation with marine omega-3 fatty acids improve systemic large artery endothelial function in subjects with hypercholesterolemia. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2000;35:265-270.
  6. Jung F, Mrowietz C, Kiesewetter H, et al. Effect of Ginkgo biloba on fluidity of blood and peripheral microcirculation in volunteers. Arzneimittelforschung. 1990;40:589-593.
  7. Mehlsen J, Drabaek H, Wiinberg N, et al. Effects of a Ginkgo biloba extract on forearm haemodynamics in healthy volunteers. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging. 2002;22:375-378.
  8. Thomson Healthcare. L-Arginine Monograph. Available at: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lar_0024.shtml Accessed on July 23, 2007.
  9. World’s Healthiest Foods. Available at: http://www.worldshealthiestfoods.com/ Accessed on July 23, 2007.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Supplements for over 50s help meet nutrient needs

If you’re a mature adult over the age of 50, here’s one more reason to keep the healthy habit of taking your daily multi. A recent survey by USDA researchers found that 43% of mature adults take a multivitamin-mineral supplement to make up for any nutrient shortfalls in their diet. Most importantly, men and women who regularly take dietary supplements are more likely to get adequate amounts of several vitamins and minerals.1 Read on to learn more about the importance of a daily multi, how to avoid potential pitfalls associated with dietary supplement use and tips for choosing the best supplement to fit your needs.

How important is a daily multi?

Most nutrition experts agree that dietary supplements play a key role in helping to fill the "nutritional gaps" in our lives from the time we're in the womb to the time we reach our golden years.2 While young and old alike can benefit from a daily multi, there is a growing concern that a large percentage of mature adults fail to obtain the recommended daily amounts of many nutrients from food alone. So, shaping the healthy habit of a daily multi is especially important for people over 50.

In fact, in the USDA survey, more than 50% of the mature adults evaluated failed to obtain adequate intakes of three essential nutrients — folate, vitamin E, and magnesium — from food alone. In addition, more than 25% failed to get enough vitamins A, B6, and C from food.1 Other researchers have reported similar findings with more than 60 percent of healthy adults over the age of 50 having deficient dietary intakes of vitamin D, vitamin E, folate and calcium.3 With critical roles ranging from cardiovascular protection and cognitive support to improving bone health and immunity, these nutrients are essential to ensure adults maintain good health year after year.†

Importantly, nutrition experts recently reported that a daily multi was an easy solution to this problem as more than 80% of regular supplement users met the daily requirement for vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and E; folate; iron; and zinc.1

What potential supplement pitfalls should mature adults avoid?

The USDA researchers also found that supplement users, particularly men, exceeded Tolerable Upper Intake (UL) levels for two minerals — iron and zinc — and a small percentage of women exceeded the UL for vitamin A.1 Mature adults can easily avoid consuming too much of these nutrients by following these simple guidelines:

  • Choose an iron-free multi.
  • Choose a multi that supplies no more than 30 mg of zinc and make sure it also contains copper.
  • Choose a multi with at least 50% of vitamin A from beta-carotene.

What key nutrients should mature adults look for in a multi?

Both the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the American Dietetic Association acknowledge the need for supplements that pertain to mature adults.2 In particular, mature adults should choose a multi that includes the following nutrients:

  • Choose a multi with at least 600 IU of vitamin D.
  • Choose a multi with some calcium and consider adding extra calcium supplement, particularly if you seldom eat dairy products.
  • Choose a multi with vitamin B12; people over age 50 tend to have difficulty absorbing B12 from food.

Natrol® My Favorite Multiple® Prime is an ideal option to consider. This daily multi is specifically formulated for mature adults with 20 essential vitamins and minerals and other key nutrients. Of course, it’s iron-free with a balanced zinc/copper ratio and a portion of vitamin A derived from beta-carotene, making it a perfect solution for health-conscious mature adults.

References

  1. Sebastian RS, Cleveland LE, Goldman JD, et al. Older adults who use vitamin/mineral supplements differ from nonusers in nutrient intake adequacy and dietary attitudes. J Am Diet Assoc. 2007;107:1322-1332
  2. Council for Responsible Nutrition. Who Needs Supplements? Most People Have Nutrition Gaps That Supplements Can Fill. Available at: http://www.crnusa.org/benpdfs/CRN002benefits_who.pdf Accessed on September 28, 2007.
  3. Foote JA, Giuliano AR, Harris RB. Older adults need guidance to meet nutritional recommendations. J Am Coll Nutr. 2000;19:628-640.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Could you use a nutrition facelift?

If so, it’s time to evaluate your intake of two tried and true nutrients, according to emerging research. When researchers recently evaluated the diets and skin quality of over 4,000 middle-aged and mature American women, they found that women with better skin-aging appearance also had higher intakes of vitamin C and linoleic acid.1

In fact, the women consuming the most vitamin C reduced their odds of wrinkles by 11% and age-related dryness by 7%. Those consuming the highest amount of linoleic acid reduced their odds of age-related dryness by 25% and skin thinning by 22%.

Researchers have previously reported that diets rich in vegetables, fruit and olive oil protect against skin wrinkling.2 Interestingly, these diets are also rich in vitamin C. Olive oil is a good source of linoleic acid and its chemical cousin, alpha linolenic acid. Both are essential fats required daily by the body and vital for healthy skin.3 What’s more, fruits and vegetables are brimming with an array of other nutrients and antioxidants that may help play a role in reducing skin damage related to aging, sun exposure and smoking.4

Your vitamin C strategy

To meet your daily needs for vitamin C, include at least two servings of vitamin C-rich fruits or vegetables in your diet every day. Think oranges, strawberries, kiwi, papaya, cantaloupe, broccoli, tomatoes, berries, potatoes and bell peppers.

Sensible supplementation can help as well, especially if your lifestyle demands extra antioxidant protection from vitamin C to combat the harmful effects of smoking, high stress, living or working in an urban area, excessive sun exposure, and even regular exercise. Consider Natrol® Easy C™ 500 mg to help close the nutrient gap between what your foods provide and what your body demands.†

Your linoleic acid strategy

Meeting daily needs for linoleic and alpha linolenic acid is easy for most Americans; however, it can take some work to choose foods that provide the best ratio necessary for optimal health. My top food picks to help you include a balanced ratio of these essential fats in your diet are walnuts, almonds, soybeans, olive, flaxseed, hemp or canola oils, and leafy green vegetables.

To ensure a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fats every day, consider Natrol® Omega-3 Complex. This convenient supplement provides your body with a healthy dose of essential omega-6 fats from flax seed and borage oils with the added bonus of omega-3 fats from flax seed oil and fish oil.†

 

References:

  1. Cosgrove MC, Franco OH, Granger SP, et al. Dietary nutrient intakes and skin-aging appearance among middle-aged American women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;86:1225-1231.
  2. Purba MB, Kouris-Blazos A, Wattanapenpaiboon N, et al. Skin wrinkling: can food make a difference. J Am Coll Nutr. 2001;20:71-80.
  3. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids (Macronutrients). Washington DC: National Academy Press: 2005.
  4. Boelsma E, Hendriks HF, Roza L, et al. Nutritional skin care: health effects of micronutrients and fatty acids.Am J Clin Nutr. 2001;73:853-864.

 

Do you need to spring clean your body?

It’s that time of year again. Spring is here and with it comes the task that many people dread—scouring nooks and crannies to remove dust and toxins that have accumulated in months past. Just like our home, our body can also benefit from spring cleaning. The body has the task of constantly filtering and removing environmental toxins that we ingest through air, water, and food. What’s more, many people have also accumulated a little extra weight through the winter months. Here’s the skinny on some tried and true solutions to help spring clean your body and kick-start your weight loss at the same time.†

Eat more roughage
Fiber is enemy #1 for toxins that are constantly traveling through your gastrointesintal (GI) tract. The longer food stays in your GI tract, the longer potential toxins have to wreak havoc on intestinal cells. Whole-grains, nuts/seeds, legumes, fruits and vegetables provide roughage that keeps your system clean. As an added bonus, fiber-rich foods help fill you up and are typically low in calories, two key essentials for weight loss.

Drink more water
Although water has received some bad press lately because of the potentially high levels of toxins it may contain,2 the fact is our body requires water every day. Water is critical to the detoxification process and, as a substitute for higher-calorie beverages, it can aid in weight loss. Experts continue to recommend a minimum of 5 to 7 cups of water daily.3 Want to be sure your drinking water is safe? Visit the National Safety Foundation (www.nsf.org ) to find out more about household water-treatment options.

Time for tea
Did you know that an enjoyable cup of tea could be the perfect companion for dieters? Green tea is well known for its ability to protect the body’s cells against damage caused by environmental influences,4 and doubles as a metabolism booster, which may help burn excess calories.5† If you prefer a supplement form, consider Natrol® Green Tea.

Another herbal tea that offers dual benefits for dieters is senna. A key ingredient in Laci Le Beau® Super Dieter’s Tea®, senna can help bring balance to your lifestyle during “spring cleaning.” Super Dieter’s Tea may help with occasional constipation that can occur with some weight loss diets, especially those low in fiber. It’s a perfect, low calorie, flavorful solution to provide all natural, soothing results.†

References:

  1. Cosgrove MC, Franco OH, Granger SP, et al. Dietary nutrient intakes and skin-aging appearance among middle-aged American women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007;86:1225-1231.
  2. WebMD. Many tap water filters work well. Available at: http://www.webmd.com/news/20070409/many-tap-water-filters-work-well. Accessed on April 1, 2008.
  3. Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes: Electrolytes and Water. Available at: http://www.iom.edu/Object.File/Master/20/004/0.pdf. Accessed on April 3, 2008.
  4. Henning SM, Niu Y, Lee NH, et al. Bioavailability and antioxidant activity of tea flavanols after consumption of green tea, black tea, or a green tea extract supplement. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004;80:1558-1564.
  5. Dulloo AG, Duret C, Rohrer D, et al. Efficacy of a green tea extract rich in catechin polyphenols and caffeine and increasing 24-h energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999;70:1040-1050.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.