Although heart disease is sometimes thought of as a "man's disease," it is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States, and women account for nearly 50% of heart disease deaths. Heart disease is the third leading cause of death among women aged 25–44 years and the second leading cause of death among women aged 45–64 years.  The average age for a first heart attack for men is 66 years and almost half of men who have a heart attack under age 65 die within 8 years. (1) Half of men and almost two-thirds of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms. (2)

Atherosclerosis is also the most common cause of cardiovascular disease, which occurs when the arteries become clogged and narrowed, restricting blood flow. Without adequate blood flow from the coronary arteries, the heart becomes starved of oxygen and the vital nutrients it needs to work properly. A heart attack or myocardial infarction occurs when a plaque ruptures, allowing a blood clot to form. This completely obstructs the artery, stopping blood flow to part of the heart muscle, and that portion of muscle dies.

High cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, stress, and secondhand smoke are risk factors associated with heart disease. Other conditions that affect your heart or increase your risk of death or disability include arrhythmia, heart failure, family history, and peripheral artery disease (PAD).

The good news is that many cases of heart disease can be prevented and even reversed by the application of a strict diet, exercise, and stress management practices. People who have survived a heart attack can also work to reduce their risk of another heart attack or a stroke in the future. Healthy aging populations have dramatically reduced the incidence of heart disease when following their traditional lifestyle, while younger generations adopting the modern Western diet and lifestyle are developing heart disease at the same rate as those in the West.

Know Your Signs and Symptoms

Knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack are crucial to the most positive outcomes after having a heart attack.  Some heart attacks are sudden and intense; however, most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Call 9-1-1 immediately at the onset of heart attack symptoms. These are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
• Signs in women may be different than for men.  Read our blog: Women and Heart Attacks: Identify the Signs, Save a Life

Healthy Lifestyle: Diet and Nutrition, Exercise and Fitness  

A healthy diet and lifestyle are the best weapons you have to fight heart disease. Many people make it harder than it is. It is important to remember that it is the overall pattern of the choices you make that counts. As you make daily food choices, read nutrition labels and base your eating pattern on these recommendations:

• Follow a healthy diet abundant in vegetables and fruit
• Choose good quality (hormone and antibiotic free) lean meats and poultry without skin and prepare them without added saturated and trans fat.
• Legumes are an excellent source of protein and fiber.
• Eliminate, or select fat-free, 1% fat, and low-fat dairy products.
• Choose healthy fats like olive oil and avocado and cut back on foods containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils to reduce trans fat in your diet.
• Cut back on foods high in dietary cholesterol. Aim to eat less than 300 mg of cholesterol each day.
• Cut back on beverages and foods with added sugars.
• Select and purchase foods lower in salt/sodium.
• If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation. That means no more than one drink per day if you're a woman and two drinks per day if you're a man.
• Keep an eye on your portion sizes. 

For an even more in depth program for healthy eating, we highly recommend Kirk’s book, Staying Healthy in the Fast Lane.

Providing your body with the extra support it needs can go a long way in keeping your heart happy. These excellent supplements are available at Energetic Nutrition.

	Omega-3 fats like the ones found in ArcticPure Omega-3 are a critical component of any heart health plan. Omega-3 fats have been shown to reduce inflammation, raise HDL, support healthy circulation and promote heart health by thinning the blood, dilating blood vessels, and supporting healthy blood pressure. It also has components that inhibit inflammatory mediators.
	VitalzymSEB is a unique enzyme formula designed specifically to support heart health by supplying enzymes that may cleanse the blood of excess fibrin and arterial plaque.  It also lowers C-Reactive Protein levels, which is the cause of vascular inflammation.
	Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant which has been shown to safeguard LDL cholesterol from oxidation.  CoQ10 is a critical component in the primary energy cycle, and is most abundant in the heart. Deficiencies in CoQ10 strongly correlate with heart disease.
	Antioxidants like Vitamin E have been shown to help neutralize destructive free radicals and support cardiovascular health by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol and inhibiting plaque formation. Oxidized cholesterol is an unstable molecule that damages the integrity of arteries.
	A good quality multi-vitamin like Life Essence Multiple provides essential vitamins and minerals along with anti-oxidants, amino acids, and countless other co-nutrients necessary to keep your body strong and your heart whistling a happy tune.
	Estrogens play a complex role in non-reproductive tissues including the cardiovascular system. The risk of stroke and heart disease is increased dramatically when a person is estrogen dominant.  DIM is an excellent hormone balancer, particularly in an estrogen dominant body.
	Antioxidants like those included in Systemic Vitamin C can help boost immune function, while protecting our cells and DNA from free radical damage. These antioxidants can also serve as a preventative measure against many different health issues from colds and flu to more serious disorders like cardiovascular disease.

Physical activity in your daily life is an important step to preventing heart disease. Moderate exercise 3-4 times per week for at least 30 minutes is essential to support circulation, vitality, and heart health. You can take a few simple steps at home, at work, and at play to increase the amount of physical activity in your life.

Stress is a major concern when it comes to hypertension and heart health. Keep those stress hormones in check and that blood pressure down by taking time to relax, meditate, walk, take a bath, or do whatever it is you do that relaxes you.  Even if it is only for 5-10 minutes per day, it makes a difference.

You can live a heart-healthy lifestyle that contributes to your longevity. Don’t be a statistic.  For extra support, get your friends and family involved in living a healthy and energetic lifestyle.

References

1. Roger V, Go, A, Lloyd-Jones, D, et al. Heart disease and stroke statistics—2011 update. A report from the American  Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee . Circulation 2011;123:e1-e192.
    
2. Lloyd-Jones D, Adams RJ, Brown TM, et al. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2010 Update. A Report from the American Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee. Circulation. 2010;121:e1-e170. 

According to an article in the New York Times titled Body’s Defender Goes on the Attack, “Scientists are coming to realize that inflammation may underlie many other common chronic diseases that come with aging, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis. Inflammation is also implicated in asthma, cirrhosis of the liver, some bowel disorders, psoriasis, meningitis, cystic fibrosis, and even cancer. 1

What is internal inflammation?

According to WebMD, inflammation can affect our internal organs, especially in cases of autoimmune disorders. This type of inflammation can cause many different symptoms, including pain; however, pain may not be a main symptom of internal inflammation due to the fact that many of our organs contain only a few pain-sensitive nerves. 2

Symptoms may depend on which organs are affected. For example:

• Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis) may cause vague chest pain or fluid retention
   
• Inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis) may cause high blood pressure or kidney failure
   
• Inflammation of the large intestine (colitis) may cause cramps and diarrhea
   
• Inflammation of the eye (iritis or uveitis) may cause pain or decreased vision
   
• Inflammation of the muscles (polymyositis) may cause achiness or weakness
   
• Inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) may cause rash, headaches, or internal organ damage
   
• Inflammation of the small tubes that transport air to the lungs (bronchiolitis) may cause shortness of breath similar to an asthma attack

As you can see, inflammation of the organs can be responsible for many different symptoms and conditions. Therefore, getting inflammation under control can be very important for overall health and proper organ function.

There are many medications available to help decrease pain and inflammation, such as Celebrex, aspirin, and ibuprofen, but they do not come without the risks of side effects. Using systemic enzymes like those in Vitalzym can naturally help reduce pain and inflammation without the use of prescription medications or over the counter pain relievers.

Inflammation and C-Reactive Proteins

C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver and is a clinical marker of general and/or cardiac-related inflammation.  When internal inflammation is present, CRP levels can rise.  According to Thomas "Tate" P. Erlinger, M.D., M.P.H., lead author of the study and an assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins,  "higher levels of C-reactive protein are linked to an increased risk of several apparently distinct, chronic diseases: heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and now colon cancer." http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/Press_releases/2004/02_10_04.html

The New York Times article continues to say “two large studies — one in men and one in women — have demonstrated that the higher a person's C-reactive protein level, the greater the risk of a heart attack or stroke.  Doctors nationwide are adding the C.R.P. test to cholesterol screening to assess people's risk of atherosclerosis. 1

CRP testing can be useful in assessing patient’s with: 3

• Heart disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Some forms of arthritis
• Autoimmune diseases
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

CRP can be used to screen otherwise healthy people for the following conditions. However, in these cases, the more sensitive high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein test (hsCRP) will be ordered:

• Coronary heart disease (CHD)
• Cardiovascular disease

A health care professional may test someone for elevated CRP levels to check for internal inflammation or to help determine a person’s risk for heart disease.  However, a low CRP level does not necessarily mean that inflammation is not present.  For example, those with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (inflammatory conditions) may or may not have increased levels of CRP; the reason for this is not known.

Reducing Inflammation and CRP Naturally

A primary goal for heart attack prevention, should be to keep inflammation to a minimum, says Dr. Peter Libby, chief of cardiovascular medicine at Brigham and Women’s hospital, and others. 1

Research results regarding the connection between CRP, inflammation, and degenerative diseases are on the rise, which is leading many health care professionals to believe that lowering CRP levels can also help reduce internal inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic, degenerative diseases. Along with a healthy diet and exercise, systemic enzyme therapy has been shown to help reduce elevated CRP levels, inflammation, and symptoms associated with such conditions. 

We offer these systemic enzyme products that can be helpful in reducing inflammation:

	Vitalzym was formulated specifically for pain, inflammation, and systemic fibrosis of the organs and tissues. This formula is the best choice for tissue and organ inflammation, and fibrosis conditions.
	VitalzymSEB is a formula that was created with the cardiovascular system in mind. It contains an enzyme called nattokinase in combination with other "heart healthy" enzymes that have been shown to reduce the levels of CRP and vascular inflammation, which may lead to heart disease if left unchecked, as mentioned above.

http://www.gordonresearch.com/articles_cardiovascular/nattokinase_&_cardio_health.pdf

http://www.gordonresearch.com/articles_cardiovascular/landmark_dev_for_cardio_dis.html

Suggested Further Reading 

Definition of Inflammation

http://www.energeticnutrition.com/vitalzym/serrapeptase.html#insect

Journal of the American Medical Association related articles and extracts

Inflammation, Heart Disease and Stroke: The Role of C-Reactive Protein

FDA cautions of using over the counter pain relievers

References

1. New York Times article, Body’s Defender Goes on the Attack
    
2. http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-inflammation
    
3. http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/crp/tab/test

Further, what many people are not aware of is that for optimal wellness there needs to be a balance of omega 6 fats to omega 3 fats. Because omega 6 fats are far more abundant in our modern diet than omega 3 fats are, most people have a skewed ratio of omega fatty acids in their body.This imbalance is believed to be contributing to various factors that can lead to chronic diseases. Source Naturals ArcticPure Omega-3 fish oil can help balance the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids for better health.

Omega Fatty Acids in Our Diet

Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids must be obtained from our diet, as we cannot make them on our own. Omega 6 fatty acids are found in many oils, meats, and processed foods are more common than omega-3 fatty acids.  Sources of omega-3’s are primarily found in plants, nuts, and fish oils, such as salmon, tuna, anchovies, mackerel, and sardines.  Unless you eat 3 to 4 ounces of cold water fish at least two times per week, you may not be getting enough omega-3’s in your diet in comparison to omega-6 fatty acids.

Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency can include:¹

• Fatigue
• Poor memory
• Dry skin
• Heart problems
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Poor circulation

According to the University of Maryland, “lack of omega-6 fatty acids, is extremely rare in diets of those living in certain Western countries, particularly the United States… In fact, North American…diets tend to have too much omega-6, particularly in relation to omega-3 fatty acids.”¹

This imbalance contributes to long-term diseases, such as:¹

• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Depression

Balancing Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

It is beneficial to maintain an appropriate balance between omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, as these two substances work together to promote health.  Most medical experts consider an optimal omega-6/omega-3 ratio to be 2:1 or even 1:1. Americans commonly range from the 10:1 to the 50:1 ratio. This unbalanced ratio can have critical health consequences.  

Omega-3s are an essential part of the structure of every cell in the body as an integral component of the cell membrane. This cell integrity enables each cell to accomplish its function.²

A Balanced Ratio of Essential Fatty Acids are critically essential in the following key areas:

• Supports brain cell function and development
• Provides cardiovascular support
• Supports eye and retina health
• Promotes healthy mental function
• Supports the immune system

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Benefits 

There are two critical omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, that the body needs. EPA and DHA are the building blocks for hormones that control immune function, blood clotting, and cell growth.

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for the following:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol. According to a number of studies, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can lower blood pressure. Fish oil can also cut triglyceride levels by 20% to 50%.
   
• Cardiovascular health. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to lower the overall risk of death from heart disease. Fish oil may reduce arrhythmias, and people who take omega-3 supplements after a heart attack cut their risk of having another heart attack. Eating fish once or twice a week seems to significantly lower the risk of stroke.
   
• Inflammation. Omega-3’s reduce inflammation throughout the body, including blood vessels and joints.
   
• Rheumatoid arthritis. A number of studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce stiffness and joint pain. Omega-3s also seem to boost the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory drugs.
   
• Depression. Researchers have found that cultures that eat foods with high levels of omega-3s have lower levels of depression. Fish oil also seems to boost the effects of antidepressants. Fish oil may help reduce the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder.
   
• Prenatal health. Studies show that EPA and DHA supplementation during pregnancy boost the health of pregnant women and the development of their children. DHA appears to be important for visual and neurological development in infants.  
   
• Osteoporosis. Studies suggest that foods or supplements with omega-3s can improve bone density.
   
• Asthma. Some evidence suggests that fish oil might improve lung function and reduce the amount of medication a person needs.
   
• ADHD. A few studies have found that fish oil can reduce the symptoms of ADHD in school-age children and improve their cognitive function.
   
• Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The evidence is preliminary, but some research suggests that omega-3s may help protect against Alzheimer's disease and dementia. However, more research needs to be done.
   
• Other conditions. Although the quality of the evidence varies, there's research showing that omega-3s might have a role in treating or reducing the risk of many other conditions. These conditions include painful periods, diabetic kidney damage, obesity, skin conditions, some cancers, Crohn's disease, and lupus.
   

Source: WebMD Medical Reference3

Purity and Quality

Pure, concentrated fish oils are one of the most important additions modern people can make in their daily health programs. However, due to the growing concerns over heavy metal toxicity in fish these days, consuming lots of fresh fish is becoming questionable.  Therefore, one can take a high quality fish oil supplement like Source Naturals ArcticPure Omega-3 fish oil, which is a great way to include omega-3 essential fatty acids to your diet without the added toxins. 

Source Naturals ArcticPure Fish Oils are premier omega-3 oils with outstanding levels of purity and are among the highest potencies available today. They are an effective, powerful tool to support your health and vitality.

Does Source Naturals have to go to the ends of the earth for the best omega-3 fish oils? Yes, as a matter of fact they do. Their commitment to quality doesn’t stop at searching the world’s oceans for the cleanest, most abundant sources of the highest-quality fish. The quality of the omega-3 fish oils and their benefits to your body depend on the purity and freshness of the oil in all phases of its manufacturing and production.

Source Natural's bottling and encapsulation processes follow the highest standards, meeting and exceeding purity standards and pharmaceutical protocol of the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Their commitment to quality ensures that you have the finest, purest, most potent oils available.

References
 

1. University of Maryland Medical Center
    
2. Simopoulos AP, (2002). The importance of the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 essential fatty acids. Biomed Pharmacother. 56:365-379.
    
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fact Sheet / WebMD 

When it comes to heart health, women need a wake up call! Heart disease is often considered a man’s diagnosis, however, according the National Institute for Health, heart disease is actually the No. 1 killer of both men and women in America today.

 A staggering 1 in 4 women die from heart disease, whereas 1 in 30 women die from  breast cancer. The U.S. Department of Health reports that nearly two-thirds of American women who die suddenly of a heart attack had no prior symptoms. Yes, that should be shocking! Yet, this is a preventable disease.

Why Are These Numbers So High? 
Likely it is a combination of stress, the Standard American Diet (also known as S.A.D.), lack of exercise, smoking, and other environmental toxins and lifestyle choices that have become a common way of life for many people. 

What Can You Do to Stay Healthy and Heart Happy? 
Think preventative!  Or, if you have already been diagnosed with having heart disease or being at risk of heart disease, then consider making efforts to  bring your body back into balance.  This means taking the time to get to know your body, and then doing what you need to do to thrive!

Where to Start?

Keeping an eye on your cholesterol is key.  It’s all about the ratio. 

We have all heard that high cholesterol is bad.  Many in the health care field, however, believe that “high” is relative, and what is equally important as total cholesterol is the ratio of HDL (“good” cholesterol) to LDL (“bad” cholesterol).  This is not to say that you should throw your total cholesterol number out the window, but rather, educate yourself on the importance of an appropriate total cholesterol, as well as the ratios of HDL and LDL mean. 

Mary Enig, PhD and author of the book “Know Your Fats,”  has spent her life’s work studying the importance of fats and their role in good health.  She states that “blood cholesterol levels between 200 and 240 mg/dl are normal… and in fact they have been shown to be associated with longevity.”  Total cholesterol is determined by combining HDL and LDL, along with other markers like triglycerides.  To obtain a truly accurate evaluation, we must examine the ratios within those numbers.

What Do Healthy Cholesterol Levels Look Like?

• HDL:LDL ratio of  4 or less.  This ratio is determined by dividing HDL into LDL.  For example, if a person’s HDL is 60 and their LDL is 150, their ratio would be 2.5.  Because their ratio is less than 4, many would consider this to be a healthy.  
• HDL (good) cholesterol: at least 40
• LDL (bad) cholesterol: below 100 (slightly more may be alright if HDL is high)
• Triglycerides: below 150
• Total cholesterol below 240.  Remember, it is important to make sure HDL is high and that LDL is low.

The Inflammation Factor

There are many factors that play into high cholesterol, one of the key factors being inflammation within the body.  Inflammation can occur for a number of reasons, some of the more common being:

• Oxidative stress with in the body.  This means you have more free radicals (inflammation promoting atoms which damage cells) in your body than you do antioxidants to quench them.
   
• Poor diet high in trans or damaged fats.  Examples of damaged fats include fried foods, highly processed fats like partially hydrogenated oils, and fats that have been oxidized by heat or light.
   
• Inadequate omega-3 fats.
   
• Exposure to inflammatory toxins.  These may include everyday substances from products like cleaning supplies, pesticides from conventionally grown foods, lotions and shampoo products.
   
• Elevated Homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is produced in the body during the process of methionine metabolism.  It has been shown that elevated homocysteine levels are associated with increased risk of cardio vascular disease, likely because homocysteine has an inflammatory effect on the arteries.  This promotes the oxidization of LDL, making it more likely for plaque to be laid down in the arteries. The metabolization of homocysteine requires abundant B Vitamins, which help to quickly break down and move homocysteine through and out of the body.  Supplementing with B Vitamins is an excellent way to support healthy homocysteine levels. 
   
• Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP is a bloodtest which measures a special type of protein in the blood that is present during times of inflammation. It IS possible to have inflammation in the body, even with a low CRP test result.  A high CRP  test result, however, is a good indication that there is either acute or chronic inflammation in the body that needs to be addressed.   

Weighing In

Maintaining a healthy body weight really does matter.

• Become familiar with your waist to hip ratio.  Women should have a waist to hip ratio of about 0.80, and men about 1.0.  If excess fat is stored in the waist (belly) area, there is a higher risk of heart disease associated.  You can evaluate your waist to hip here.

Are You At Risk?

The most common risk factors include:

• Being overweight
• Eating a nutrient poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking cigarettes
• High blood pressure
• Metabolic Syndrome. Risks for metabolic syndrome include:
  1. High fasting glucose levels
  2. High (poor ratio) cholesterol
  3. High blood pressure
  4. Being overweight, especially in the abdomen

What You Can Do About It

Providing your body with the extra support it needs can go a long way in keeping your heart happy. These excellent supplements are available at Energetic Nutrition.

→ Healthy Heart Support 

	VitalzymSEB is a unique enzyme formula designed specifically to support heart health by supplying enzymes that may cleanse the blood of excess fibrin and arterial plaque.  It also lowers C-Reactive Protein levels, which is the cause of vascular inflammation.
	Omega-3 fats like the ones found in ArcticPure Omega-3 are a critical component of any heart health plan. Omega-3 fats have been shown to reduce inflammation, raise HDL, support healthy circulation and promote heart health by thinning the blood and dilating blood vessels.
	A good quality multi-vitamin like Life Essence Multiple provides essential vitamins and minerals along with anti-oxidants, amino acids, and countless other co-nutrients necessary to keep your body strong and your heart whistling a happy tune.

→ Detoxify

Environmental toxins have a tremendous impact on heart health. A simple herbal spring cleanse (see our Complete Body Cleanse Kit) can help support the natural release of stored toxins that collect over the winter months. Combined with delicious organic foods and some sweating, your heart will surely be grateful.

→ Hormone Balance

Estrogens play a complex role in non-reproductive tissues including the brain and cardiovascular system. The risk of stroke and heart disease is increased dramatically when a person is estrogen dominant. Water logging of the cells and an increase in intercellular sodium, which predispose a person to high blood pressure or hypertension, frequently occur with estrogen dominance.Balance is key. 

	DIM promotes beneficial estrogen metabolism and healthy hormonal balance.  DIM protects against hormone-related cancer and heart disease.
	Myomin is an all-natural Chinese herbal blend ideal for normalizing estrogen levels in both men and women. Additionally, Myomin can also induce more interferon in the system, which activates natural killer cells, a major component of the immune system.

→  Fuel Your Body with Antioxidants
 

	Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant which has been shown to safeguard LDL cholesterol from oxidation.  CoQ10 is a critical component in the primary energy cycle, and is most abundant in the heart. Deficiencies in CoQ10 strongly correlate with heart disease.
	Antioxidants like Vitamin E have been shown to help neutralize destructive free radicals and support cardiovascular health by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol and inhibiting plaque formation. Oxidized cholesterol is an unstable molecule that damages the integrity of arteries.

Eat for Health

A healthy diet goes a long way to longevity.

Choose an array of organic, hormone-free and antibiotic-free whole foods.

Portion size is important if you are trying not to overeat. Eat at regular intervals throughout the day to keep blood sugar regulated and dietary stress at a minimum.  Try to include: 

• Up to 7 servings of delicious garden vegetables, especially leafy greens
• Two servings of juicy fresh fruits.
• Meats, poultry and fish without fillers and chemicals.  A serving size is about the size of the palm of your hand and the thickness of a deck of cards.
• Nuts and seeds, healthy oils, avocados and olives in moderation. Be sure you are getting  adequate fiber (at least 30 g/day), as fiber has been shown to lower LDL by helping to escort it out of the body.

Keep That Body Moving

Moderate exercise 3-4 times per week for at least 30 minutes is essential to support circulation, vitality, and heart health.  Consider exploring the outdoors, getting to the gym, or even just sweating it out at home. Swim, run, bike, dance or do whatever keeps your heart pumping. Add in some weight training a couple of days a week and treat your muscles to some stretching or yoga and you’ll have a recipe for a healthy metabolism and a happy, strong heart.

Stress Less

Stress is a major concern when it comes to hypertension and heart health. Keep those stress hormones in check and that blood pressure down by taking time to relax, meditate, walk, take a bath, or do whatever it is you do that relaxes you.  Even if it is only for 5-10 minutes per day, it makes a difference.

Electromagnetic stress from things like cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices also contribute to our “total load,” or the total amount of stress that our body is required to deal with. Keeping EMF’s at bay while using your favorite electronic tools can make a difference in your health.

The Aulterra Neutralizer and Enhance by Aulterra are both excellent to reduce EMF stress and protect the body on a cellular level.

We sometimes forget that our heart is working day in and day out to keep us moving.  It is easy for women to overlook heart health, especially with so much emphasis being put on so many other health issues today.  Recent statistics on women and heart health, however, are showing that our hearts are in need some extra love!  So consider taking the time to give your heart the support it deserves, it will surely appreciate the extra TLC.

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic rheumatic condition that causes pain all over the body. The condition affects the muscles, tendons (tough bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect muscle to bone), and ligaments (fibrous connective tissue that connect bone to other bone),  resulting in widespread pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points. Many people suffer from these common health concerns: fatigue, muscle aches and pains, depression, weight gain, memory impairment, irritable bowel, and more.

What many people don’t realize is that these symptoms can be directly or indirectly associated with fibromyalgia. If you feel like your life has been turned upside down and you suffer from these symptoms, you may want to find out more about fibromyalgia.

The name fibromyalgia comes from the Latin word ‘fibro’, meaning fibrous tissues (tendons, ligaments), ‘my’ meaning muscles, and ‘algia’ meaning pain.

Fibromyalgia used to be known as fibrositis, which literally means inflammation of the muscles and soft tissue. However, the condition was renamed fibromyalgia after studies found that there is no muscle inflammation, or nerve injury.

Anyone can develop fibromyalgia, although the condition tends to affect more women than men. In most cases, fibromyalgia occurs between 35-60 years of age, but it can develop in people of any age, including children and the elderly.

There are no specific laboratory tests
to diagnose fibromyalgia. To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will rely on a comprehensive physical exam, the new Pain Index coupled with a symptom severity scale and your medical history (2). This new criteria adds credibility to the diagnosis and is intended to offer physicians an alternative to the tender point count which is generally only performed by rheumatologists. 

Fibromyalgia Syndrome is mainly a diagnosis of exclusion. That means your doctor will also rule out conditions that could cause similar symptoms.

There is currently no cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment aims to ease the symptoms as much as possible. Many people are concerned that conventional therapies are limited and research shows that about 90 percent of those suffering from fibromyalgia use some form of complimentary alternative therapy and implement lifestyle changes (3).

What do you do when you don’t know where to begin?

Many people feel overwhelmed and worn-out. The last thing that they want to do is start and exhaustive search through the various options that are available.

We have taken the liberty and done this part for you.
It is our belief that we have provided the most up to date and comprehensive combination of alternatives that can help you reduce symptoms and restore your quality of life.  Now that doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t still do your own homework, especially if you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

Our holistic approach to Fibromyalgia Syndrome is the Restoration Action Plan.

This plan includes three (3) key areas of focus:

1. Nutritional Supplementation – Replenish nutrients with therapeutic supplementation.
2. The Food Factor – Nourish your body at mealtime.
3. Stress Reduction Options – Reduce stress daily.

  Read through each of the three focus areas to get familiar with
        them.

 Print out the Action Plan Worksheet.

 Log, review and order the supplements in your plan

             ♪    Note:   These may also include your medication or other 
                                supplements that you have chosen for your individual
                                program.

 Look at your eating habits. Decide what you can do today to
        support your recovery. 

 Use the coping strategy options to reduce 
        your daily stress levels

 Know that together these steps can put you back in control.

Taking action is your most important step and we are here to provide support and tools for your program.

(1)   National Fibromyalgia Association – http://www.fmaware.org/site/PageServer

(2)  http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/news/20100526/a-new-way-of-diagnosing-fibromyalgia

(3)   http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/fibromyalgia.htm 

Fibromyalgia sufferers may experience pain as a result of hypercoagulation (thickened blood) that can lead to poor circulation due to an excess buildup of fibrin.  Fibrin is a whitish, insoluble protein that makes up a blood clot when promoted by thrombin, a key clot promoter.

In otherwise healthy individuals, one burst of thrombin should generate enough fibrin to form an actual clot in the event of an injury.  However, those with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions may continuously generate low thrombin levels that can result in hypercoagulation and pain as circulation slows.        

Reducing fibrin with the use of systemic enzyme therapy may be an alternative to taking blood thinning and pain relieving medications for those who do suffer from fibromyalgia.   

What is the role of fibrin in fibromyalgia?

Research from the late 1990s reveals that many patients with chronic disease may have an underlying coagulation defect contributing to their symptoms.  When tissues don't receive sufficient blood, the cells are starved for oxygen and nutrients. Pain can result, as in headache or fibromyalgia.   

In the case of fibromyalgia, fibrin (a stiff protein) forms a meshwork, or screen that slows blood flow to the cells. This interferes with cell function and cell-to-cell communications leading to the accumulation of additional forms of protein debris. Therefore, the symptoms of fibromyalgia can respond well to treatments that are aimed at clearing protein debris. [1]   

Fibromyalgia sufferers may experience pain as a result of excess fibrin when promoted by thrombin, a key clot promoter.  In otherwise healthy individuals, one burst of thrombin should generate enough fibrin to form an actual clot in the event of an injury.  However, those with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions may continuously generate low thrombin levels that can result in increased fibrin and pain as circulation slows.    

Reducing fibrin with the use of systemic enzyme therapy may be an alternative to taking blood thinning and pain relieving medications for those who do suffer from fibromyalgia.

How Vitalzym can help

Vitalzym can help relieve a variety of fibromyalgia related symptoms by addressing many of the underlying causes.

These symptoms include:

• Pain and Stiffness
• Fatigue
• Poor Circulation
• Digestive Troubles
• Irritable Bowel / Bladder

Vitalzym can also be a safer alternative to many prescription and over the counter pain relievers that may cause undesirable side effects, which is the last thing a fibromyalgia sufferer needs.

Vitalzym contains enzymes such as protease and serrapeptase, which are well-known for their proteolytic (excess protein clearing) properties. Proteolytic enzymes break down excess fibrin in your circulatory system and in other connective tissue, such as your muscles – helping to remove the meshwork that slows blood flow to the cells.    If the rate of protein (fibrin) accumulation exceeds the rate of breakdown, the microcirculatory system gets clogged and flow decreases. This stagnation of protein debris promotes fibrosis in the muscles and other soft tissues. Combine this with slowed blood flow and the results are widespread pain and chronic fatigue.

Vitalzym can help fibromyalgia sufferers by:   

• Acting as an anti-inflammatory agent
• Regulating the immune system
• Increasing circulation
• Reducing fibrosis
• Removing toxins and impurities in the blood
• Reducing viral loads

These enzymes also bring nutrients and oxygen-rich blood that remove the metabolic waste produced by inflammation and excess fibrin. This alone can bring tremendous relief to fibromyalgia sufferers.  

Additionally, researchers are beginning to believe that there is a strong autoimmune component connected to fibromyalgia syndrome. Interestingly enough, systemic enzyme therapy has an excellent track record regarding the treatment of various autoimmune diseases. In addition to reducing inflammation, regulating immunity, and reducing excess fibrin, serrapeptase has a profound ability to reduce pain due to its ability to block the release of pain-inducing amines from inflamed tissues.  

 Read more about Vitalzym and Fibromyalgia on our new Fibromyalgia website here: 

References

1. Hypercoagulation, Protein Accumulation, and Fibromyalgia; Keith Berndtson, M.D.; Illinois MultiMed

Dark Chocolate Improves Blood Flow

A Japanese study suggests that dark chocolate can improve blood flow to the heart muscle.  This is a very important finding since improvement in coronary blood flow lessens the risk of angina and heart attack, claims Yumi Shiina, PhD, of Chiba University in Chiba, Japan.  The researchers measured an indicator that determines the ability of the coronary arteries to dilate and allow more blood flow to the heart muscle tissue.  After two weeks, coronary circulation significantly improved in participants who ate dark chocolate.  There was no change in participants who ate white chocolate. 

Why Dark Chocolate?

Dark chocolate retains a higher flavonoid content than milk chocolate with low flavonoids, or white chocolate, which does not contain flavonoids at all.  Flavonoids are antioxidants, and have been found to be responsible for chocolates heart health benefits.  When the body lacks adequate levels of antioxidants, free radical damage can result and lead to increased LDL-cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) oxidation and plaque formation on arterial walls. 

Additional antioxidant capabilities from flavonoids also:

• Are believed to help reduce platelet aggregation
• May affect the relaxation capabilities of blood vessels
• May positively affect the balance of certain compounds that are thought to benefit the heart

There are factors to consider when consuming chocolate to help benefit the heart, as some forms of chocolate are more ideal over others.  For example, most commercial chocolates have been over processed via fermentation, alkalizing, and roasting, which reduces the flavonoid content. Therefore, the higher the cocoa content, the better.  It is also a good idea to skip sugar and fat laden dark chocolate products containing chewy caramel and marshmallows, as they are not considered heart-healthy options.   John Hopkins Medicine states, “when choosing dark chocolates, opt for the more expensive ones, as they usually have higher levels of flavonoids. Specifically, buy bittersweet chocolate with at least 60 percent cocoa content.”

How Much Chocolate Do I Need To Eat?

At this point in time there are no prescriptions for chocolate, but there are varying thoughts as to how much dark chocolate one may need to eat in order to gain heart protective benefits.  For example, two studies have shown that a 1.4 to 1.6 ounce dark chocolate bar with a high cocoa content daily has contributed to cardiovascular health.  “Eating a little bit of chocolate or having a drink of hot cocoa as part of a regular diet is probably good for personal health, so long as people don’t eat too much of it, and too much of the kind with lots of butter and sugar,” says Diane Becker, M.P.H., Sc.D., a professor at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health.  It is important to remember while a little dark chocolate is good, a lot is not better, as chocolate is still high in calories.  

When choosing a chocolate product find those with:

• Less calories
• Less sugar
• Less butter fat
• More cocoa content

Further Reading

Chocolate addicts offer sweet heart lesson Cocoa in Chocolate May Be Good for the Heart Chocolate “Offenders” Teach Science A Sweet Lesson

Read Our Article

Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids: Balancing the Good Fats

Essential Fatty Acid Basics

Omega 3 fatty acids are considered “essential” because they cannot be manufactured within the body.  Therefore, they must be obtained from food sources, such as fish, plant, and nut oils.  We need them for our bodies to work normally. Because essential fatty acids (ALA, DHA, EPA) are not made in the body or are inefficiently converted from ALA to EPA and DHA, we need to get them from food.

Symptoms of omega 3 fatty acid deficiency includes:

• Extreme tiredness
• Poor memory
• Dry skin
• Heart problems
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Poor circulation

Omega-3s have a number of reported health benefits. They can help reduce inflammation throughout the body — in the blood vessels, the joints, and elsewhere. Omega-3 supplements (EPA/DHA) also seem to thin the blood and aid cell function.

There are several types of omega-3 fatty acids. However, the two most crucial ones EPA and DHA — are primarily found in certain fish. Plants like flax contain ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid that is partially converted into DHA and EPA in the body.  Experts say that DHA and EPA — from fish and fish oil — have better established health benefits than ALA. DHA and EPA are found togetheronly in fatty fish and algae; while flaxseed and plant sources of omega-3s provide ALA — a precursor to EPA and DHA, and a source of energy.

Additionally, EPA and DHA are the building blocks for hormones that control immune function, blood clotting, and cell growth.  Furthermore, extensive research has shown that omega 3 fatty acids help reduce risk factors associated with chronic diseases, such as arthritis and heart disease.

Source:  WebMD

Omega 3’s and Cardiovascular Health

Evidence is steadily accumulating indicating that omega 3 fatty acids found in fish help decrease the risk of coronary heart disease.  In fact, the Nurses' health study and the Physician's health study are two large, long-term observational studies that have been published regarding dietary intake omega-3-fatty acids and the risk of heart disease and sudden cardiac death:

Nurses’ Health Study -  This study began in 1976.   More than 80,000 female nurses completed life style and diet questionnaires.  Then, they were monitored for 16 years for the development of coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acid consumption was calculated from the questionnaires. The results of the study showed that compared to women who rarely ate fish (less than one fish meal per month), women who ate fish once a week had a 29% lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. Those who ate fish five times a week had a 34% reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease and a 45% reduction in the risk of death from heart disease (usually sudden cardiac death). 1

Physicians Health Study – The Physician's health study began in 1982 when more than 20,000 healthy male physicians were followed for 11 years. Life style, coronary risk factors and diet data were collected at entry, and life style and diet data were collected via questionnaires at 12 months and 18 months. The results of the study showed that men who consumed one or more fish meals per week had a 50% lower risk of developing sudden cardiac death than men who rarely ate fish (less than one fish meal per month). 2

According to WebMD, “Omega-3 fatty acids appear to lower the overall risk of death from heart disease.  Fish oil may reduce arrhythmias, and people who take omega-3 supplements after a heart attack cut their risk of having another heart attack.  Eating fish once or twice a week seems to significantly lower the risk of stroke.”

Omega 3’s and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease, characterized by inflammation of the synovial lining of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect other organs of the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs and heart.

Omega 3’s have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, thereby, offering relief to those who suffer from inflammatory joint conditions. 

The majority of clinical studies that have investigated the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammatory joint conditions have focused primarily on rheumatoid arthritis. These studies have concluded that omega-3 fatty acid supplements help reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.  Additionally, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis. 3, 4

The Physician's Desk Reference for Nutritional Supplements suggests that a “daily ingestion of at least 3 grams of EPA and DHA mixtures of a period of 12 weeks or longer has been found to reduce the number of tender joints and amount of morning stiffness in subjects with rheumatoid arthritis.  Those with rheumatoid arthritis consuming these supplements have been report to lower or discontinue use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.”

Further Reading

Diet, atherosclerosis, and fish oil.

N-3 fatty acids from fish oil. Effects on plasma lipoproteins and hypertriglyceridemic patients.

Low levels of cellular omega-3 increase the risk of ventricular fibrillation during the acute ischaemic phase of a myocardial infarction.

Omega-3 fatty acids in rheumatoid arthritis: an overview.

A meta-analysis of the analgesic effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for inflammatory joint pain.

Validation of a meta-analysis: the effects of fish oil in rheumatoid arthritis.

References

1.  JAMA vol 287. No.14, p 1815. "Fish and omega-3-fatty acid intake and risk of coronary heart disease in women".

2.  JAMA 1998, vol 279, p23. The title of the article is "Fish consumption and risk of sudden cardiac death".

3.  MacLean CH, Mojica WA, Morton SC, et al. Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on lipids and glycemic control in type II diabetes and the metabolic syndrome and on inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, renal disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and osteoporosis. Evid Rep Technol Assess (Summ). 2004(89):1-4. 

4. Goldberg RJ, Katz J. A meta-analysis of the analgesic effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for inflammatory joint pain. Pain. 2007;129(1-2):210-223.

Vitalzym has been reformulated with a technologically advanced delivery system that allows for reduced dosage and vastly increased effectiveness.

Let’s face it; no one likes to take a handful of pills at any given time.  And now, with the new, more potent Vitalzym, you don’t have to. 

This new improved version of Vitalzym still contains the same beneficial enzyme formula that we all know and love.  However, it has been reformulated to increase its fibrinolytic activity to be even more effective against fibrosis conditions, such as uterine fibroid tumors, fibromyalgia, and scar tissue.  It will also be more helpful for inflammatory conditions, as well. 

New Changes Highlighted

• Twice as strong as original Vitalzym
• LESS COST PER DOSE
• Enteric coated for ideal release of active ingredients
• Liquid filled for optimal absorption
• Half the dose of original Vitalzym
• Smaller and more convenient packaging, with flip-top lid
• 100% non-GMO
• Vegetarian
• Completely recyclable packaging

World Nutrition is on the cutting edge of enzyme supplementation. Learn about the new Vitalzym, which offers the highest purity and potency available in a systemic enzyme formula.

Vitalzym Basics for Newbie’s

Vitalzym provides the enzymes needed for each of the millions of biochemical reactions that make life possible. Without enzymes, life could not exist.  As we age, our body’s natural production of enzymes begins to slow down.  Therefore, supplementation with Vitalzym along with proper diet and exercise can help maintain normal enzyme levels and balance your body’s own repair mechanisms.

Vitalzym systemic proteolytic enzyme therapy assists the body in fighting:

• Autoimmune conditions
• Fibromyalgia symptoms
• Uterine Fibroid Tumors – Read My Vitalzym Story
• Inflammation
• Fibrosis of the organs
• Scar tissue
• Toxins and impurities in the blood
• Viruses

Vitalzym is natural. It contains no animal derivatives, artificial flavors, artificial colors, yeast or gluten. Vitalzym is also lactose free and contains no harmful talc.

Enzyme Facts

As we age, our body’s natural production of enzymes begins to slow down.  Some health care professionals believe that our natural production of enzymes starts to decrease after the age of 27. 

Symptoms of low enzyme production can include: 

• Slow wound healing
• Increased scarring
• Poor digestion
• Fibrosis conditions
• Internal inflammation

Dr. Anthony Cichoke, enzyme authority, states in his book, Enzymes and Enzyme Therapy, that “Our body’s ability to function, to repair when injured, and to ward off disease is directly related to the strength and numbers of our enzymes.”

Customer Testimonials

“I have suffered for many years with severe allergies and continual back pain from injuries sustained while serving in the armed forces as a helicopter pilot during the Viet Nam Conflict. I started taking Vitalzym daily in January, and by March all but the mildest symptoms of my allergies have disappeared and I have had no back pain. I can now enjoy playing golf pain free and allergy free. I highly recommend Vitalzym as part of one’s daily nutritional regimen.”
     - Jim H., Arizona

“I am so excited. I have only been using Vitalzym for a month and I can already tell it is working. I bought for fibroid relief, and it is working on so many other things too! Thanks!”
     - Julie E, Kansas

“I wanted to share with you the fact that Vitalzym has given me such tremendous relief from my fibromyalgia symptoms. When I first started taking it I was desperate and in agony. I couldn’t sit, couldn’t lie down, standing hurt, everything hurt. Vitalzym has been the one product that I have found to help with the chronic pain and it wasn’t long after starting to take it that I noticed the pain subsiding. Thank you for offering products for someone like myself who believes in natural treatments before chemical complications.  I highly recommend this product to anyone.”
     - Tami H, North Carolina

“I have had rheumatoid arthritis for a couple of years. I have done my homework and tried many different enzyme products. Vitalzym works best. It helps with my pain and stiffness. I use Vitalzym on a regular basis and wouldn’t be without it. I want to spread the word about Vitalzym.”
     - Carol G., Arizona

Read More Customer Testimonials

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wanting to use systemic enzymes

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According to the University professor, Jeffrey Woods, “obese people have higher levels of circulating inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive proteins, which are produced and secreted by fat tissue.  This inflammation then triggers the systemic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.”

 In this study, Woods and his colleagues examined the effects of diet and exercise on the inflammation of belly fat tissue in mice after a high-fat diet was used to induce obesity.  After six weeks, the mice were assigned to a sedentary group, an exercise group, a low-fat diet group, or a group that combined a low-fat diet with exercise.  Maybe people will react differently, but only the sedentary mice got the inflammation that usually results from having big bellies.

 "The surprise was that the combination of diet and exercise didn''''t yield dramatically different and better results than diet or exercise alone," says Victoria Vieira, a University of Illinois Ph.D. candidate and the study''''s lead author.

Please note:  Exercise does not take the place of healthy eating habits.  While this study has shown that you may still be able to lose weight even if your diet is high in fat, high-fat diets are known to create a variety of health problems, including diabetes, so be sure to make healthy food choices and get some exercise in the meantime.

Further Reading

Exercise Fights Hidden Body Fat

Exercise May Reduce Belly Fat

Effects of exercise and low-fat diet on adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic complications in obese mice