Archive for July, 2009
Wednesday, July 29th, 2009
Tradition, wisely passed down from one generation to another, tells us that pumpkin seeds were commonly eaten to support male reproductive health. For centuries, saw palmetto berries and the African pygeum, stinging nettle, rye pollen and star grass were used by ancient sages to treat men suffering from prostate and urogenital problems. Centuries later, scientific research has reaffirmed these properties.
Beta-sitosterol is a micro-nutrient, plant fat scientifically known as phytosterols. Beta-sitosterol is found in the cell and cell membranes of oil-producing plants. In a natural state, sterols are bound to its plant fiber and therefore, difficult for the body to absorb during the digestion process. Beta-sitosterol is similar in chemical structure to cholesterol but both have totally different biological functions.
In 1922, plant sterols were described chemically for the first time. It was found that pumpkin seeds contained a phytosterol called beta-sitosterol. In the 1950s it was discovered that phytosterols play a role in lowering levels of cholesterol in the body by reducing their absorption in the intestine. Newsweek carried an article, in its April 25, 1954 issue, highlighting the effectiveness of phytochemicals (plant chemicals) as natural wonders in supporting health and in treating certain health disorders. Today margarines and cereals are fortified with beta-sitosterol, in an effort to control cholesterol levels by natural means. Beta-sitosterol has been studied extensively in various clinical trials and has no known side effects or toxicity.
Besides pumpkin seeds, beta-sitosterol is naturally found in foods like rice bran, wheat germ, corn oils, soybeans, pecans, and peanuts. Dietary beta-sitosterols are usually obtained from saw palmetto which contains a high amount of beta-sitosterol.
A large amount of scientific research suggests the effective use of beta-sitosterol in lowering levels of cholesterol, as an alternate approach to the conventional prescription of statin. Research also indicates its use in relieving symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In fact, doctors in Europe have been prescribing beta-sitosterol to patients suffering from BPH for decades. In the United States, beta-sitosterol supplements comes under the restrictions of dietary supplements but is increasingly becoming the educated choice of many men who are at risk for prostate disorders.
Statistics show that 60% of men over 40 and as high as 75% of men over 50 are at higher risk for prostate disorders. Race and heredity also play an important factor. Reports show that African American men are more likely to suffer from prostate disease than their Caucasian counterparts, as are men who have a history of this disease in their family.
Prostate disorders are caused by the increase in the size of the prostate gland. This increase is due to hormonal factors and is a natural process of aging. The male hormone, testosterone, undergoes changes as men approach their 40s. There is an increase in the enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which starts converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a powerful androgen and causes the prostate cells to drastically multiply and enlarge, thus resulting in an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Urological complications occur when the prostate gland grows so big that it begins to put pressure on the urethra. BPH can lead to impotence and urogenital problems.
Demographic studies indicate that prostate gland disorders are more prevalent among men who follow “western” dietary patterns, as compared to Asians, where only about 5% of the men suffer from prostate disorders. These studies indicate that prostate disease may be linked to dietary patterns. A diet consisting of red meat, saturated fat, low fiber, and less fruits and vegetables is likely to contribute to prostate gland illnesses, as against an Asian diet which consists of vegetables, beans, grains and less meat. Such studies strongly suggest that prostate gland disorders may be linked to nutrition. Numerous studies indicate that nutritional support through beta-sitosterol significantly alleviates symptoms associated with prostate disorders and may also help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Nutritional support should begin early. BPH is a slow progressing disease and actual growth may begin in men in their early 30s without any symptoms showing. By the time symptoms are noticed the prostate gland has considerably increased in size.
Research indicates that beta-sitosterol:
- Can nutritionally support prostate health.1,2,3,4
- Can help to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase production of the androgen and reduce the likelihood of DHT formation.5, 6,7
- Can help reduce the risk of urinary problems.
Beta-sitosterol cannot be produced by the body, and has to be gained through dietary means. Super Beta Prostate contains beta-sitosterol to help nutritionally support a healthy prostate, urinary tract, bladder and sexual functioning.
References:
- Wilt TJ, Mac Donald R, Ishani A. Beta-sitosterol for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review. BMU Int. 1999; 83:976-983.
- British Journal of Urology (vol. 80, p.427-32, 1997).
- Lancet (vol. 345, p. 1529-1532, 1995) Berges, R.
- European Urology (vol. 21, p. 309-24, 1992)
- Minerva Urologica e Nefrologica (vol. 37, p. 87-91, 1985) Tasca, A.
- British Journal of Urology (vol. 78, p. 325-36, 1996).
- European Urology, (vol. 26, p. 247-52, 1994) Strauch, G.
- Beta-Sitosterol activates the sphingomyelin cycle and induces apoptosis in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells. Nutr Cancer. 1998;32(1):8-12. PMID: 9824850
Kevin Agrawal http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/where-does-betasitosterol-come-from-665806.html
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Wednesday, July 29th, 2009
The baby boomer population bubble has now reached 60 years old. This means that many of us are going to need to face illness and diseases that come with surviving six decades. Prostate cancer is one such disease that is expected to grow in number over the next few decades.
Statistically 180,000 new prostate cancer cases are being diagnosed in the United States every year with about 32,000 men dying from this disease annually. Although these are the statistics that are used, the fact is that many of these men will will die and not from the actual prostate cancer, but from allowing the cancerous condition to grow until it is unmanageable. This is due to the fact that prostate cancer can metastasize or move from the prostate area and infect organs, bones and lymph nodes.
This should cause every man to pause and realize that prostate cancer is a serious disease that if given the chance will kill you. It is now the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States after lung cancer. In Canada about 17,000 males are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and about 4,200 die each year from the disease.
The sad fact is that many of these deaths are avoidable. As with many cancerous diseases, early detection is the key to effective treatment and even cure. Prostate cancer is diagnosed based upon how advanced the malignant tumor has grown. In the early stages, we have maximum flexibility in treatment options and can both manage and in many times cure this potentially deadly disease.
Diagnosis usually start with a medical history as studies have shown that heredity may be a factor with prostate cancer. Next, a DRE or digital rectal exam is done. This is a quick and simple exam where the doctor feels your prostate for any abnormal bumps, size difference or texture. In addition to a DRE, the doctor may suggest a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood Test. This blood test looks for abnormal markers that may indicate the presence of a developing cancerous situation.
There’s growing evidence to suggest that a diet very rich in vitamins and nutrients can also help maintain our body’s ability to ward off many serious diseases. Although the definitely not a cure for prostate cancer, the use of natural remedies to strengthen your body’s immune system can only help to keep you healthy. There’s no question that a low-fat diet along with appropriate vitamins and minerals can help keep you healthier and make you better able to fight off disease.
Several studies have suggested that men who had a diet rich in selenium and vitamin E. had fewer cases of prostate cancer. The kinds of foods that contain selenium include meat, grains, seafood, and some kinds of nuts. It’s critical that you meet with your doctor before making any radical changes to your diet as other problems may arise. There’s also some evidence to suggest that the nutrient lycopene found in tomato based products such as ketchup can provide some protection against contracting prostate cancer.
According to a study in the British Journal of Urology International, men that have been diagnosed with prostate cancer who take supplemental lycopene (is found in very high amounts in tomatoes) and still get their testicles surgically removed are likely to experience less bone pain, less disease and stand more chances of living longer than those who have only had surgical removal of their testicles.
In the end, a partnership with your medical doctor is the best way to remain healthier longer. By taking some responsibility for your health, changes in your lifestyle are much easier to make.
Abigail Franks http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/living-with-prostate-cancer-61116.html
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Wednesday, July 29th, 2009
Prostate cancer was first identified in 1853, and can only occur in men since prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. According to the survey of the American Cancer Society, this illness is most common in the United States, where it is the main cause of cancer related deaths, after lung cancer. This cancer is least common in South and East Asia.
Prostate cancer is a disease that comes into existence due to mutation of the cells of the prostate which begin to multiply uncontrollably. The prostate glands require androgenes, male hormones, to function properly. If caught in its early stage, prostate cancer can be cured in 90% of the cases.
Symptoms of prostate cancer vary, and sometimes do not clearly indicate cancer. The person with discomfort and disease has to undergo a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause of these occurrences. Nevertheless, many men having developed this illness will never find out about it, will not undergo any treatment, and will die of other causes as this disease is forming in the later part of life. The disease is typical of men over 50 years of age, thus many are apt to die of other causes while the cancer slowly advances and spreads to other parts of their body. Due to this factor the selection of the right treatment is at times difficult.
If a man experiences an urge or need to urinate frequently, especially at night, or if he is facing difficulty starting or holding back urine, if his urine has a disturbed or weak flow accompanied with a painful, burning feeling when urinating, there is a high probability of him developing prostate cancer. It affects a man’s sexual life as well.
In some cases a person with this disease will face problems of erection, and painful ejaculation. Cancer cells may spread, i.e., metastasize to other parts of the body, mainly to the lymph nodes, which help in destroying bacteria, and to the bones. Similarly with problems of the female reproductive system, men also feel pain, stiffness in the lower back, and upper thighs.
Diagnosis of the disease sometimes happens when an individual undergoes physical examination or screening blood tests. Particular of these tests is PSA, i.e., prostate specific antigen test. If a patient is suspected of having developed cancer, he will have biopsy, a test during which a piece of the prostate will be removed and examined under a microscope. Various other tests may be performed, like bone scans and X-rays to determine whether the cancer cells have spread elsewhere in the body.
Curing and treatment have various methods. One of these is chemotherapy, in which chemical substances are used for treating. Nowadays, catatonic drugs are used during chemotherapy. Besides, there are other ways of treatment which can be combined with each other, or with chemotherapy itself, these being surgery, hormone therapy, and radiation therapy.
After all, the outcome of the therapy depends on various factors, like for example the age and current health of the man, the extent of the spreading of the infected cells, and the appearance under the microscope, and the response of the cells while treatment all determine the result and outcome of prostate cancer disease.
The specific causes of prostate cancer are yet unknown. The risk of a man developing this disease depends on his age, genetics, race, lifestyle, which includes diet as well, and medication. According to surveys carried out in the United States, this cancer affects mainly black men, rather than white or Hispanic men. Surveys also show that daily use of anti-inflammatory medicines, such as aspirin, may decrease the risk of cancer.
Prevention of the disease has been proven to be possible by scientists. Taking dietary supplements, like vitamin E and selenium, may help prevent the disease from forming if taken daily. Still, a thousands of years old prevention has been proven helpful, namely the consumption of green tea. It is 100% safe and can be taken in any quantity.
It is crucial that every man has an early check-up of his health in identifying cancer at the beginning stage.
Action taken in time can save your life!
Riley Hendersen http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/can-prostate-cancer-can-be-cured-137786.html
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Wednesday, July 29th, 2009
What exactly is this “Bad Cholesterol”?
Cholesterol is categorized under “Lipids” or “Fats”. They form part of the cell membranes and are very important in cellular functions. In the blood the fats are attached to proteins and they form groups of substances called lipoproteins.
*Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
*Very Low Density Lipoproteins (VLDL)
*High Density Lipoproteins (HDL)
Chylomicrons
Of these Low Density Lipoproteins are called ” Bad Cholesterol”. If the blood level of this bad cholesterol increases, it gets deposited along the walls of the blood vessels blocking the flow of blood. If the blood flow to heart is blocked it causes angina and myocardial infarction. If the blood flow to the brain is blocked it results in stroke.
On the contrary, High Density Lipoprotein is called ” Good Cholesterol” and it has protective function.
The Alternative Medicine
Though statins rule the roost when it comes to bring down and controlling the blood levels of bad cholesterol, the option of using alternative medicine is always there for its effectiveness, lesser cost and minimal side effects.
Before contemplating alternative medical treatment for decreasing cholesterol, one should know the optimum levels and high-risk levels of cholesterol.
Total cholesterol:
*
< 200mg/dL is the safe and desired level
*201-239mg/dL is borderline high risk
*
> 240mg/dL is high risk level
LDL Cholesterol:
*
160 is high risk level
The goal in people with higher risk factors for heart disease is less than 130 mg/dL. In patients who already have heart disease, the goal is under 100 mg/dL, according to FDA guidelines. And also one should increase the HDL levels or the good cholestrol. So now if you want to avoid statins and take only alterative medicine, then you have to follow two steps.
1. Avoid foods rich in fats
2.Take natural supplements
Fatty foods to be avoided:
The highest cholesterol content is found in meat, poultry, shellfish, and dairy products. As far as possible these food items should be avoided.
Natural supplements to bring down cholesterol levels:
There are numerous natural supplements, which are found, be effective in bringing down the cholesterol levels and it has been proved by many studies. Some of them are
*beta sitosterol: It is a plant sterol which reduce cholesterol levels
*Niacin: It is Vitamin B3 which lowers LDL cholesterol by 20%
*Fish oils
*Green Tea
*Psyllium and Flax seeds: These contain fibers which reduce the cholesterol levels
*Mangosteen and sytrinol: These are fruit extracts which reduce cholesterol levels
*Policosanol: it is derived from sugar cane and it reduces LDL cholesterol by nearly 25%
*Cholestin: It is a processed form of red yeast fermented with rice. Cholestin lowers LDL cholesterol by 20-30%. It also raises HDL.
*Soy protein: The isoflavones in it brings down LDL cholesterol by 10%
* Garlic: It reduces LDL cholesterol by 12%
*Aphanizomenon flosaquae (AFA): It is blue green algae, which reduces LDL cholesterol by 20%.
*Gugulipid an extract of Commiphora mukul, the gum resin of the mukul myrrh tree and Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos), a medicinal herb of South Africa are also effective
In addition to these supplements, the other treatment options available are diet regimens including Vegetarian diet, Asian diet, and Low Glycemic diet. A regular exercise will add to the beneficial outcome.
Markus Wahlgren http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/alternative-medicine-for-bad-cholesterol-71449.html
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
Saw V
Duration : 48 sec
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
A vitamin is an organic compound required as a nutrient in tiny amounts by an organism.1 A compound is called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from the diet. Thus, the term is conditional both on the circumstances and the particular organism. For example, ascorbic acid functions as vitamin C for some animals but not others, and vitamins D and K are required in the human diet only in certain circumstances
Duration : 27 sec
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
http://malegspot.co.uk Sign up NOW for Male G Spot secrets about prostate massage, milking, and amazing whole body multiple male s
Duration : 1 min 13 sec
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
Internet spokespersonality Hal Burly (David Beeler) makes us aware of the prostate and its health with his doctor (Tom Konkle) written by Dave and Tom www.daveandtom.com
Duration : 1 min 32 sec
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
Home Closed Beta for the PLAYSTATION 3 on the PLAYSTATION Network. Emotes. For the full video of all Homes topics combined, see my "Home Beta Full In Depth Video Walkthrough" video. Thanks.
Duration : 3 min 17 sec
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Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
Depends on who you ask.
There are products such as Sahara that will kill a palmetto. BE CAREFUL with this stuff.
Round up generally doesn’t work on palms.
A citrus farmer will tell you Diesel fuel.
It only takes a cupful poured into the center of the palm and it will be dead in 2 weeks.
This is not environmentally friendly but is effective.
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