Today's Podcast is on women's health and our guest is Certified Professional Midwife Leonora Colen. Leonora has been a midwife for the past 6 years at the Austin Area Birthing Center here in Austin, TX and has been voted to be one of the best midwives in the city according to Austin's Mom Blog 2015. In the article she is quoted as "being the best baby catcher this side of the Mason-Dixon." On the show she answers your questions about birth control, Urinary Tract Infections, Yeast Infections and more.

We are excited to let you know Leonora has agreed to come back on the podcast again soon to discuss more on Women's Health so if you have more questions for her please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to get your questions on the next PowerPlant!

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy, stress reduction and a healthy libido. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

SHOW NOTES:

What is a UTI Exactly? 

• It's a bladder infection

What are the Symptoms of a UTI (also called Cystitis)

• General Discomfort in the Urinary Tract
• Burning sensations during urination 
• Frequent need to urinate
• Low back or flank pain

 Herbal Remedies for UTI

• Uva Ursi (bearberry leaf)  - herb that kills bacteria in the bladder. It should be taken only for short periods of time — five days or less — as it could cause liver damage.  Only use during pregnancy under the guidance of a qualified midwife or practitioner.

• Yarrow - an astringent herb that kills bacteria.  It should be used no more than 5 days.

• Goldenseal - an herb that kills bacteria is often used as a remedy for UTIs.

• Cranberry Extract - the supplement with concentrated extracts are probably the best, since you want to avoid sugar.

• Buffered Vitamin C Powder - can be used intermittently with D - mannose powder, but it should be used a half hour apart from the d - mannose.  You have to figure out how much you can handle because everyone has a different bowel tolerance.

• D - Mannose Powder -commonly used to help get rid of UTI's, D- Mannose should be used a half hour apart from buffered vitamin C.

• Nettle tea or infusion - pregnant women can drink 5-10 cups every week during the last trimester to strengthen their kidneys.

Drink lots of Water  

• This helps flush away the bacteria that's causing your infection'
• How much? Aim for half of your body weight in ounces of water

Eat foods rich in Vitamin C

• large amounts of vitamin C make urine more acidic.
• The acidic environment inhibits the growth of bacteria in your urinary tract.

Eliminate Bladder Irritants from Your Diet

• sugar 
• alcohol
• caffeinated drinks like coffee and black tea
• spicy food
• nicotine
• artificial sweeteners 

Empty Your Bladder Completely

• Every time you empty your bladder you get rid of the bacteria causing the infection.

Good Habits

• Wear loose cotton clothing and underwear
• Toilette Etiquette - Wipe yourself clean from front to back
• Choose fragrance-free personal hygiene products
• Make sure your partner is using good hygiene before being intimate as well.

Support for Yeast Infections

• Antibiotics 
• Coconut oil
• Caprylic Acid
• Probiotics
• Pau D'Arco
• Olive Leaf Extract
• Propolis
• Candida Enzymes
• Oregano Oil

Today's Podcast is on PTSD Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD was first added to the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1980 by the American Psychiatric Association.

When I first heard the term PTSD in the 80's and 90's it was something that I thought was tied to veterans coming back from war. Now when I hear about someone suffering from PTSD I recognize it as a someone who has experienced trauma in some way. Could be a car accident, a sexual assault, a mugging or in the case of today's guest, a bike accident.

Today's guest is David Field. Before becoming a Trauma Therapist in training he worked with artists that included Radiohead, Crowded House and Carly Simon. After a traumatic bicycle accident in California, David spent years in pain and rehabilitation and suffered from depression and PTSD. Last year he made a life changing decision to go back to school and become a trauma therapist.

DAVID'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION:

 Peter Levine:

In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness

SHOW NOTES ON PTSD RELATING TO BRAIN TRAUMA:

PQQ - pyrroloquinoline quinone - discovered about 50 years ago, PQQ is currently being researched for its role in healing the brain.

• PQQ has been found to increase the formation of new nerve cells.
• PQQ can promote growth of new mitochondria and improve the function of existing mitochondria.
• PQQ has been shown to help protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases and the effects of traumatic brain injury, including damage from stroke.

Mitochondria - Mitochondria are rod-shaped organelles that generate power for a cell.

• Responsible for aerobic cellular respiration, the process of converting oxygen and nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the chemical energy that powers the cell's metabolic activities. 
• Mitochondria divide independently of the cell in which they reside, meaning mitochondrial replication is not dependent on cellular division. 

Healthy Fats - It's easy to understand the importance of omega 3's and phospholipids when one realizes that the human brain and nervous system are made up of approximately 60% fat (mostly DHA - an omega 3 fatty acid).

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  • Support inflammation response
  • Support mood and cognitive function
  • Brain and nervous system mostly DHA
  • Omega 3 protocol used for brain injury

• Phospholipids - fats needed to build brain cell membranes that are fluid enough to release the neurotransmitters

• phosphatidylserine - required by the brain to manufacture memory-related neurotransmitters and functional membrane lipids, one of the few things shown to reverse age-related memory loss in clinical studies.

• phosphatidylcholine - required by the brain to manufacture memory-related neurotransmitters and functional membrane lipids. Essential nutrient necessary for normal brain function and the most abundant phospholipid found in the body. It's found in its highest concentration in the liver and brain.

• alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha GPC) - Required by the brain to manufacture memory-related neurotransmitters and functional membrane lipids it's believed to support cognitive function in high doses.

Lion's Mane - powerful medicinal mushroom and nerve tonic that benefits the brain and nervous system.

• Lion's Mane has been used successfully if Japan with patients with mild cognitive impairments.
• Lion's Mane is believed to have nerve-regenerative properties.
• Lion's Mane contains at least two classes of Nerve Growth Factors (NGFs) 

Bacopa Monnieri - a powerful adaptogen commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine that is believed to support brain health, memory, and cognitive function.  

• Has been used for centuries for memory support and to cope with stress.
• Research has found the compounds in Bacopa to support the brain cells that prompt the regeneration of brain tissue.

Curcumin - the extract of Turmeric that supports the bodies inflammation response when used properly.

• Is currently being used to treat central nervous system injury,inflammation, and specifically for traumatic brain injury.

Nervines - herbs that are of general benefit to the nervous system, whether they be tonifying or simply help to calm the nerves.

• Oatstraw
• Chamomile
• Lemon Balm
• Motherwort
• Lion's Mane - really more of a long-run tonic.  The best results come in time with this one.

 Adaptogens - herbs or compounds considered to be safe that improve the bodies resiliency in dealing with physical, emotional, or environmental stress.  

• Cordyceps
• Ashwagandha
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Asian Ginseng
• American Ginseng 
• Moomiyo (Shilajiit)

Today's podcast is on cancer prevention. Sadly, cancer is one of the more common subjects that comes up for our wellness co-host Fon. On today's show we will discuss some of the ways you can go about preventing it. The calls we have gotten this week are from people with family histories of cancer. We'll hear from Cathy who has a family history of breast cancer as well as Ed in Philadelphia who grew up in a house with second hand smoke, we'll also take a call regarding symptoms of prostate cancer.

We will discuss the kinds of foods, herbs and vitamins you can take to increase your red and white blood cell counts and also go over some pretty amazing mushrooms that have been associated with cancer prevention.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy and stress reduction. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

SHOW NOTES:

Facts and Statistics on Cancer for Men and Women:

• 1 in 2 people in the USA will get cancer at some point in

    their life.

• Most Common Cancers Among Women
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Women
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Most Common Cancers Among Men
  • Prostate cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Men
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer 
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Liver cancer

Foods to Avoid:

• GMO's
• Hydrogenated Oils 
• Microwave Popcorn
• Processed Meats
• Diet Foods with Artificial Sweeteners
• Artificial Flavors and Colors
• Refined Sugar
• Refined White Flour
• Farm Raised Fish
• Foods Sprayed with Glyphosate or other Pesticides and

    Fungicide.

Lifestyle Habits:

• Maintain Alkalinity 
• Antioxidant intake 
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Detoxification
• Limit exposure to environmental toxins
• Sunlight and Exercise 
• Reduce stress 
• Get Sleep

Eating Habits - The American Diet is full of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, bleached flour, artificial ingredients and colors, farmed fish, and toxic sources of meat.  Focus on getting a diet full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

• Leafy Green Vegetables - Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes, yet very low in calories, fats, sodium and other toxins. 

• Cruciferous Vegetables - Source of vitamins C and K, the powerful antioxidant Glutathione, and estrogen metabolizing compounds DIM, Calcium D Glucarate, and Indole-3 Carbinol.  

• Berries - The antioxidant content of most berries are very high, making them some of the most powerful foods in the world.  Berries are known to be a great source of proanthocyanidin antioxidants, which help to decrease free radical damage. 

• Brightly Orange-Colored Fruits and Veggies - an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and carotenoid antioxidants. 

• Healthy Fats - Most of the fats found in the American diet are toxic and cause damage to our cells.  However, 60 percent of our brain and nervous system are made up of fatty acids. Omega 3's support inflammation response, mood, and focus, and help us maintain a healthy heart and help to protect our cells. Examples of healthy fats:
  • Hemp Oil
  • Chia Oil
  • Flax Oil
  • Algae Oil
  • Fish oil
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Nuts and Seeds - Chia seeds, hemp Seeds, and flax seeds are and excellent fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals. Hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds contain healthy fats Magnesium and Zinc.  Brazil nuts are the best source of selenium. Sprouted nuts have the widest range of benefits.

• Fresh Herbs and Spices -Try to incorporate organically grown, immune boosting spices like turmeric, ginger, oregano, and garlic into your recipes and vegetable juices.

• Fermented Foods - Cultured foods are a great source of probiotics.  Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help digest food, get nutrients into the system, and boost immune function. A healthy gut is imperative to staying healthy.  It is believed that up to 80% of the immune system is in the gut!

• Medicinal Mushrooms - Potent immune-enhancers that have been used to fight cancer for centuries. Reishi, cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function and cell regeneration.

• Green Tea - Not only is it a great pick me up, green tea is an excellent source of cancer fighting antioxidants that are several times more potent than Vitamins C and E called polyphenols.

• Garlic - We mention Garlic under spices, but keep in mind that it's known to boosts white blood cell count.

Important Health Factors:

Healthy Blood Cells

• Red Blood Cells and Oxygenation - 
  • We have to have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.
  • Warburg won the nobel prize in 1931 after figuring out

that once a cell has less that 60% of the oxygen it needs cancer occurs.

• Important because cancer cells are Anaerobic and proliferate through burning glucose.
• Healthy cells are Aerobic and thrive with sufficient oxygen
• Best way to build red blood cells is by consuming chlorophyll - it's the closest thing to hemoglobin in the plant world.

• co-factors that help build red blood cells
  • Vitamin B6 
  • Vitamin B9
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin A 
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • CoEnzymeQ10 - nutrient vital for the production of energy in the mitochondria. Powerful antioxidant that is also used in the mitochondria to transport oxygen. CoQ10 must be there for your cells to produce energy using oxygen because it transports oxygen to where it needs to be.

• White Blood Cells - cells are produced in the bone marrow, and typically work as part of the immune system to fight off bacterial and viral infections.
  • We have to have white blood cells to fight off invaders and to combat cancer cells.

• Vitamin D3 
  • Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are linked to poor immune functioning, which may translate to low white blood cell counts.

• Clinical research shows that vitamin D can help prevent cancer best when you acquire about 50–70 nanograms per milliliter daily.

• Get 20 minutes of sun exposure every day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with 40 percent of your entire body exposed to the sun or take an oral supplement containing around 5,000 to 10,000 IUs of D3 every day. 

• Zinc 
  • Linked with the production of white blood cells
  • According to The American Cancer Society, studies have shown that zinc levels in blood and inside white blood cells are often lower in patients with certain types of cancer.

• Selenium
  • The University of Maryland Medical Center states that selenium can help build up white blood cells and move them around. Some studies also indicate that selenium may help prevent some infections. Another study indicated that when the elderly takes both zinc and selenium supplements, their immune systems responded better to the flu vaccine than those who took placebo.

• Vitamin B9 (Folate)
  • The body needs folate to make white blood cells.  A deficiency of folate can also lead to anemia, which is a low level of red blood cells. 

• Vitamin C
  • an immune enhancer that helps white blood cells perform at their peak and quickens the immune system's response.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  • Help combat inflammation and helps make white blood cells.

Adaptogens boost Immune Function and modulate white blood cell count.

• Astragalus Root
  • Helps boost white blood cells
  • University of Texas found that Astragalus Root enhanced the immune system's ability to identify bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells.

• Cat's Claw
  • Modulates the white blood cell count - if the white blood cell count is too low, it will increase it, and if it's too high, it will decrease it.

• According to herbalist Maya Cointreau, "cat's claw increased the ability of white blood cells to find and eradicate foreign micro-organisms. It also increases the body's production of T-cells, helping to fight infection more effectively." 

• Reishi Mushroom
  • Source of polysaccharides that have been shown to better activate Natural Killer cells reducing cancer metastasis. Natural Killer cells are lymphocytes that seek out tumors.

• Reishi also has been shown to assist in slowing the growth of tumors as well as prompting programmed cell death in malignant cells. 

• Maitake Mushroom
  • Stimulates Natural Killer cell activity in cancer patients.
  • Believed to suppress tumor growth and to trigger malignant cell death through its specific immune-enhancing methods.

• Agaricus Blazei Murill
  • Activates macrophage and interferon immune activity leading to tumor shrinkage and stopping metastasis.

• Reduces chance of future cancer occurrences. 
• Also shown to decrease the side effects of chemotherapy or certain types of cancers.

• Turkey Tail
  • Studies show that it increases Natural Killer cell activity towards tumor detection and eradication.

Soursop (Graviola) - 

• Found to be stronger at killing cancer cells than chemotherapy. 

• Studies show compounds found in Soursop kill cancer cells, but do not harm healthy cells.

Nutrients that Support Breast Health 

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

• Estrogen Metabolizing Nutrients

• DIM (diindolylmethane) – Found in all cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. DIM forces estrogen to break down into a non-cancer promoting type of estrogen in the liver

• Calcium D-glucarate -Also found naturally in cruciferous vegetables, as well as fruits, such as apples, oranges, and grapefruit.  It aids the liver in the production of glucuronic acid, which binds to "bad" estrogens and deactivates them.

• Indole-3 Carbinol - Also found in cruciferous vegetables, Indole Carbinol has been found to benefit estrogen metabolism. Remember that it's the "bad" estrogen that is cancer promoting. 

• Aromatase Inhibitors - Antioxidants that block aromatase, an enzyme that helps to create estrogen. There's a type of bad estrogen is believed to fuel breast cancer cell growth. Examples: 
• Grape seed extract
• Chrysin - biofavaniod compound found in propolis, honey, and passionflower.
• Parsley
• Cruciferous Vegetables 

 Nutrients that Support Prostate Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Prostate Health:

• Saw Palmetto -This herb has shown to reduce prostate inflammation and enlargement

• CBD oil (Cannabadiol) - cannabinoids have been found to inhibit the growth of this ID-1 gene and to return cancerous cells back to healthy cells.
  • Prostate cancer patients have high levels of the ID-1 gene.

• Lycopene - An antioxidant found to prevent and even reverse prostate cancer as well as prostate enlargement. This is the red pigment contained in foods such as tomatoes and watermelon.

• Stinging Nettle Root - Studies have shown it to reduce the symptoms associated with prostatitis.

Nutrients that Support Lung Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Lung Health:

• See list of Medicinal Mushrooms above
• See Astragalus Root above

Today's podcast is on cancer prevention. Sadly, cancer is one of the more common subjects that comes up for our wellness co-host Fon. On today's show we will discuss some of the ways you can go about preventing it. The calls we have gotten this week are from people with family histories of cancer. We'll hear from Cathy who has a family history of breast cancer as well as Ed in Philadelphia who grew up in a house with second hand smoke, we'll also take a call regarding symptoms of prostate cancer.

We will discuss the kinds of foods, herbs and vitamins you can take to increase your red and white blood cell counts and also go over some pretty amazing mushrooms that have been associated with cancer prevention.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy and stress reduction. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

SHOW NOTES:

Facts and Statistics on Cancer for Men and Women:

• 1 in 2 people in the USA will get cancer at some point in

    their life.

• Most Common Cancers Among Women
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Women
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Most Common Cancers Among Men
  • Prostate cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Men
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer 
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Liver cancer

Foods to Avoid:

• GMO's
• Hydrogenated Oils 
• Microwave Popcorn
• Processed Meats
• Diet Foods with Artificial Sweeteners
• Artificial Flavors and Colors
• Refined Sugar
• Refined White Flour
• Farm Raised Fish
• Foods Sprayed with Glyphosate or other Pesticides and

    Fungicide.

Lifestyle Habits:

• Maintain Alkalinity 
• Antioxidant intake 
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Detoxification
• Limit exposure to environmental toxins
• Sunlight and Exercise 
• Reduce stress 
• Get Sleep

Eating Habits - The American Diet is full of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, bleached flour, artificial ingredients and colors, farmed fish, and toxic sources of meat.  Focus on getting a diet full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

• Leafy Green Vegetables - Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes, yet very low in calories, fats, sodium and other toxins. 

• Cruciferous Vegetables - Source of vitamins C and K, the powerful antioxidant Glutathione, and estrogen metabolizing compounds DIM, Calcium D Glucarate, and Indole-3 Carbinol.  

• Berries - The antioxidant content of most berries are very high, making them some of the most powerful foods in the world.  Berries are known to be a great source of proanthocyanidin antioxidants, which help to decrease free radical damage. 

• Brightly Orange-Colored Fruits and Veggies - an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and carotenoid antioxidants. 

• Healthy Fats - Most of the fats found in the American diet are toxic and cause damage to our cells.  However, 60 percent of our brain and nervous system are made up of fatty acids. Omega 3's support inflammation response, mood, and focus, and help us maintain a healthy heart and help to protect our cells. Examples of healthy fats:
  • Hemp Oil
  • Chia Oil
  • Flax Oil
  • Algae Oil
  • Fish oil
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Nuts and Seeds - Chia seeds, hemp Seeds, and flax seeds are and excellent fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals. Hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds contain healthy fats Magnesium and Zinc.  Brazil nuts are the best source of selenium. Sprouted nuts have the widest range of benefits.

• Fresh Herbs and Spices -Try to incorporate organically grown, immune boosting spices like turmeric, ginger, oregano, and garlic into your recipes and vegetable juices.

• Fermented Foods - Cultured foods are a great source of probiotics.  Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help digest food, get nutrients into the system, and boost immune function. A healthy gut is imperative to staying healthy.  It is believed that up to 80% of the immune system is in the gut!

• Medicinal Mushrooms - Potent immune-enhancers that have been used to fight cancer for centuries. Reishi, cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function and cell regeneration.

• Green Tea - Not only is it a great pick me up, green tea is an excellent source of cancer fighting antioxidants that are several times more potent than Vitamins C and E called polyphenols.

• Garlic - We mention Garlic under spices, but keep in mind that it's known to boosts white blood cell count.

Important Health Factors:

Healthy Blood Cells

• Red Blood Cells and Oxygenation - 
  • We have to have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.
  • Warburg won the nobel prize in 1931 after figuring out

that once a cell has less that 60% of the oxygen it needs cancer occurs.

• Important because cancer cells are Anaerobic and proliferate through burning glucose.
• Healthy cells are Aerobic and thrive with sufficient oxygen
• Best way to build red blood cells is by consuming chlorophyll - it's the closest thing to hemoglobin in the plant world.

• co-factors that help build red blood cells
  • Vitamin B6 
  • Vitamin B9
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin A 
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • CoEnzymeQ10 - nutrient vital for the production of energy in the mitochondria. Powerful antioxidant that is also used in the mitochondria to transport oxygen. CoQ10 must be there for your cells to produce energy using oxygen because it transports oxygen to where it needs to be.

• White Blood Cells - cells are produced in the bone marrow, and typically work as part of the immune system to fight off bacterial and viral infections.
  • We have to have white blood cells to fight off invaders and to combat cancer cells.

• Vitamin D3 
  • Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are linked to poor immune functioning, which may translate to low white blood cell counts.

• Clinical research shows that vitamin D can help prevent cancer best when you acquire about 50–70 nanograms per milliliter daily.

• Get 20 minutes of sun exposure every day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with 40 percent of your entire body exposed to the sun or take an oral supplement containing around 5,000 to 10,000 IUs of D3 every day. 

• Zinc 
  • Linked with the production of white blood cells
  • According to The American Cancer Society, studies have shown that zinc levels in blood and inside white blood cells are often lower in patients with certain types of cancer.

• Selenium
  • The University of Maryland Medical Center states that selenium can help build up white blood cells and move them around. Some studies also indicate that selenium may help prevent some infections. Another study indicated that when the elderly takes both zinc and selenium supplements, their immune systems responded better to the flu vaccine than those who took placebo.

• Vitamin B9 (Folate)
  • The body needs folate to make white blood cells.  A deficiency of folate can also lead to anemia, which is a low level of red blood cells. 

• Vitamin C
  • an immune enhancer that helps white blood cells perform at their peak and quickens the immune system's response.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  • Help combat inflammation and helps make white blood cells.

Adaptogens boost Immune Function and modulate white blood cell count.

• Astragalus Root
  • Helps boost white blood cells
  • University of Texas found that Astragalus Root enhanced the immune system's ability to identify bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells.

• Cat's Claw
  • Modulates the white blood cell count - if the white blood cell count is too low, it will increase it, and if it's too high, it will decrease it.

• According to herbalist Maya Cointreau, "cat's claw increased the ability of white blood cells to find and eradicate foreign micro-organisms. It also increases the body's production of T-cells, helping to fight infection more effectively." 

• Reishi Mushroom
  • Source of polysaccharides that have been shown to better activate Natural Killer cells reducing cancer metastasis. Natural Killer cells are lymphocytes that seek out tumors.

• Reishi also has been shown to assist in slowing the growth of tumors as well as prompting programmed cell death in malignant cells. 

• Maitake Mushroom
  • Stimulates Natural Killer cell activity in cancer patients.
  • Believed to suppress tumor growth and to trigger malignant cell death through its specific immune-enhancing methods.

• Agaricus Blazei Murill
  • Activates macrophage and interferon immune activity leading to tumor shrinkage and stopping metastasis.

• Reduces chance of future cancer occurrences. 
• Also shown to decrease the side effects of chemotherapy or certain types of cancers.

• Turkey Tail
  • Studies show that it increases Natural Killer cell activity towards tumor detection and eradication.

Soursop (Graviola) - 

• Found to be stronger at killing cancer cells than chemotherapy. 

• Studies show compounds found in Soursop kill cancer cells, but do not harm healthy cells.

Nutrients that Support Breast Health 

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

• Estrogen Metabolizing Nutrients

• DIM (diindolylmethane) – Found in all cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. DIM forces estrogen to break down into a non-cancer promoting type of estrogen in the liver

• Calcium D-glucarate -Also found naturally in cruciferous vegetables, as well as fruits, such as apples, oranges, and grapefruit.  It aids the liver in the production of glucuronic acid, which binds to "bad" estrogens and deactivates them.

• Indole-3 Carbinol - Also found in cruciferous vegetables, Indole Carbinol has been found to benefit estrogen metabolism. Remember that it's the "bad" estrogen that is cancer promoting. 

• Aromatase Inhibitors - Antioxidants that block aromatase, an enzyme that helps to create estrogen. There's a type of bad estrogen is believed to fuel breast cancer cell growth. Examples: 
• Grape seed extract
• Chrysin - biofavaniod compound found in propolis, honey, and passionflower.
• Parsley
• Cruciferous Vegetables 

 Nutrients that Support Prostate Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Prostate Health:

• Saw Palmetto -This herb has shown to reduce prostate inflammation and enlargement

• CBD oil (Cannabadiol) - cannabinoids have been found to inhibit the growth of this ID-1 gene and to return cancerous cells back to healthy cells.
  • Prostate cancer patients have high levels of the ID-1 gene.

• Lycopene - An antioxidant found to prevent and even reverse prostate cancer as well as prostate enlargement. This is the red pigment contained in foods such as tomatoes and watermelon.

• Stinging Nettle Root - Studies have shown it to reduce the symptoms associated with prostatitis.

Nutrients that Support Lung Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Lung Health:

• See list of Medicinal Mushrooms above
• See Astragalus Root above

Today's podcast is on cancer prevention. Sadly, cancer is one of the more common subjects that comes up for our wellness co-host Fon. On today's show we will discuss some of the ways you can go about preventing it. The calls we have gotten this week are from people with family histories of cancer. We'll hear from Cathy who has a family history of breast cancer as well as Ed in Philadelphia who grew up in a house with second hand smoke, we'll also take a call regarding symptoms of prostate cancer.

We will discuss the kinds of foods, herbs and vitamins you can take to increase your red and white blood cell counts and also go over some pretty amazing mushrooms that have been associated with cancer prevention.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy and stress reduction. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

SHOW NOTES:

Facts and Statistics on Cancer for Men and Women:

• 1 in 2 people in the USA will get cancer at some point in

    their life.

• Most Common Cancers Among Women
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Women
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Most Common Cancers Among Men
  • Prostate cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Men
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer 
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Liver cancer

Foods to Avoid:

• GMO's
• Hydrogenated Oils 
• Microwave Popcorn
• Processed Meats
• Diet Foods with Artificial Sweeteners
• Artificial Flavors and Colors
• Refined Sugar
• Refined White Flour
• Farm Raised Fish
• Foods Sprayed with Glyphosate or other Pesticides and

    Fungicide.

Lifestyle Habits:

• Maintain Alkalinity 
• Antioxidant intake 
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Detoxification
• Limit exposure to environmental toxins
• Sunlight and Exercise 
• Reduce stress 
• Get Sleep

Eating Habits - The American Diet is full of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, bleached flour, artificial ingredients and colors, farmed fish, and toxic sources of meat.  Focus on getting a diet full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

• Leafy Green Vegetables - Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes, yet very low in calories, fats, sodium and other toxins. 

• Cruciferous Vegetables - Source of vitamins C and K, the powerful antioxidant Glutathione, and estrogen metabolizing compounds DIM, Calcium D Glucarate, and Indole-3 Carbinol.  

• Berries - The antioxidant content of most berries are very high, making them some of the most powerful foods in the world.  Berries are known to be a great source of proanthocyanidin antioxidants, which help to decrease free radical damage. 

• Brightly Orange-Colored Fruits and Veggies - an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and carotenoid antioxidants. 

• Healthy Fats - Most of the fats found in the American diet are toxic and cause damage to our cells.  However, 60 percent of our brain and nervous system are made up of fatty acids. Omega 3's support inflammation response, mood, and focus, and help us maintain a healthy heart and help to protect our cells. Examples of healthy fats:
  • Hemp Oil
  • Chia Oil
  • Flax Oil
  • Algae Oil
  • Fish oil
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Nuts and Seeds - Chia seeds, hemp Seeds, and flax seeds are and excellent fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals. Hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds contain healthy fats Magnesium and Zinc.  Brazil nuts are the best source of selenium. Sprouted nuts have the widest range of benefits.

• Fresh Herbs and Spices -Try to incorporate organically grown, immune boosting spices like turmeric, ginger, oregano, and garlic into your recipes and vegetable juices.

• Fermented Foods - Cultured foods are a great source of probiotics.  Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help digest food, get nutrients into the system, and boost immune function. A healthy gut is imperative to staying healthy.  It is believed that up to 80% of the immune system is in the gut!

• Medicinal Mushrooms - Potent immune-enhancers that have been used to fight cancer for centuries. Reishi, cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function and cell regeneration.

• Green Tea - Not only is it a great pick me up, green tea is an excellent source of cancer fighting antioxidants that are several times more potent than Vitamins C and E called polyphenols.

• Garlic - We mention Garlic under spices, but keep in mind that it's known to boosts white blood cell count.

Important Health Factors:

Healthy Blood Cells

• Red Blood Cells and Oxygenation - 
  • We have to have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.
  • Warburg won the nobel prize in 1931 after figuring out

that once a cell has less that 60% of the oxygen it needs cancer occurs.

• Important because cancer cells are Anaerobic and proliferate through burning glucose.
• Healthy cells are Aerobic and thrive with sufficient oxygen
• Best way to build red blood cells is by consuming chlorophyll - it's the closest thing to hemoglobin in the plant world.

• co-factors that help build red blood cells
  • Vitamin B6 
  • Vitamin B9
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin A 
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • CoEnzymeQ10 - nutrient vital for the production of energy in the mitochondria. Powerful antioxidant that is also used in the mitochondria to transport oxygen. CoQ10 must be there for your cells to produce energy using oxygen because it transports oxygen to where it needs to be.

• White Blood Cells - cells are produced in the bone marrow, and typically work as part of the immune system to fight off bacterial and viral infections.
  • We have to have white blood cells to fight off invaders and to combat cancer cells.

• Vitamin D3 
  • Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are linked to poor immune functioning, which may translate to low white blood cell counts.

• Clinical research shows that vitamin D can help prevent cancer best when you acquire about 50–70 nanograms per milliliter daily.

• Get 20 minutes of sun exposure every day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with 40 percent of your entire body exposed to the sun or take an oral supplement containing around 5,000 to 10,000 IUs of D3 every day. 

• Zinc 
  • Linked with the production of white blood cells
  • According to The American Cancer Society, studies have shown that zinc levels in blood and inside white blood cells are often lower in patients with certain types of cancer.

• Selenium
  • The University of Maryland Medical Center states that selenium can help build up white blood cells and move them around. Some studies also indicate that selenium may help prevent some infections. Another study indicated that when the elderly takes both zinc and selenium supplements, their immune systems responded better to the flu vaccine than those who took placebo.

• Vitamin B9 (Folate)
  • The body needs folate to make white blood cells.  A deficiency of folate can also lead to anemia, which is a low level of red blood cells. 

• Vitamin C
  • an immune enhancer that helps white blood cells perform at their peak and quickens the immune system's response.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  • Help combat inflammation and helps make white blood cells.

Adaptogens boost Immune Function and modulate white blood cell count.

• Astragalus Root
  • Helps boost white blood cells
  • University of Texas found that Astragalus Root enhanced the immune system's ability to identify bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells.

• Cat's Claw
  • Modulates the white blood cell count - if the white blood cell count is too low, it will increase it, and if it's too high, it will decrease it.

• According to herbalist Maya Cointreau, "cat's claw increased the ability of white blood cells to find and eradicate foreign micro-organisms. It also increases the body's production of T-cells, helping to fight infection more effectively." 

• Reishi Mushroom
  • Source of polysaccharides that have been shown to better activate Natural Killer cells reducing cancer metastasis. Natural Killer cells are lymphocytes that seek out tumors.

• Reishi also has been shown to assist in slowing the growth of tumors as well as prompting programmed cell death in malignant cells. 

• Maitake Mushroom
  • Stimulates Natural Killer cell activity in cancer patients.
  • Believed to suppress tumor growth and to trigger malignant cell death through its specific immune-enhancing methods.

• Agaricus Blazei Murill
  • Activates macrophage and interferon immune activity leading to tumor shrinkage and stopping metastasis.

• Reduces chance of future cancer occurrences. 
• Also shown to decrease the side effects of chemotherapy or certain types of cancers.

• Turkey Tail
  • Studies show that it increases Natural Killer cell activity towards tumor detection and eradication.

Soursop (Graviola) - 

• Found to be stronger at killing cancer cells than chemotherapy. 

• Studies show compounds found in Soursop kill cancer cells, but do not harm healthy cells.

Nutrients that Support Breast Health 

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

• Estrogen Metabolizing Nutrients

• DIM (diindolylmethane) – Found in all cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. DIM forces estrogen to break down into a non-cancer promoting type of estrogen in the liver

• Calcium D-glucarate -Also found naturally in cruciferous vegetables, as well as fruits, such as apples, oranges, and grapefruit.  It aids the liver in the production of glucuronic acid, which binds to "bad" estrogens and deactivates them.

• Indole-3 Carbinol - Also found in cruciferous vegetables, Indole Carbinol has been found to benefit estrogen metabolism. Remember that it's the "bad" estrogen that is cancer promoting. 

• Aromatase Inhibitors - Antioxidants that block aromatase, an enzyme that helps to create estrogen. There's a type of bad estrogen is believed to fuel breast cancer cell growth. Examples: 
• Grape seed extract
• Chrysin - biofavaniod compound found in propolis, honey, and passionflower.
• Parsley
• Cruciferous Vegetables 

 Nutrients that Support Prostate Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Prostate Health:

• Saw Palmetto -This herb has shown to reduce prostate inflammation and enlargement

• CBD oil (Cannabadiol) - cannabinoids have been found to inhibit the growth of this ID-1 gene and to return cancerous cells back to healthy cells.
  • Prostate cancer patients have high levels of the ID-1 gene.

• Lycopene - An antioxidant found to prevent and even reverse prostate cancer as well as prostate enlargement. This is the red pigment contained in foods such as tomatoes and watermelon.

• Stinging Nettle Root - Studies have shown it to reduce the symptoms associated with prostatitis.

Nutrients that Support Lung Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Lung Health:

• See list of Medicinal Mushrooms above
• See Astragalus Root above

Today's podcast is on cancer prevention. Sadly, cancer is one of the more common subjects that comes up for our wellness co-host Fon. On today's show we will discuss some of the ways you can go about preventing it. The calls we have gotten this week are from people with family histories of cancer. We'll hear from Cathy who has a family history of breast cancer as well as Ed in Philadelphia who grew up in a house with second hand smoke, we'll also take a call regarding symptoms of prostate cancer.

We will discuss the kinds of foods, herbs and vitamins you can take to increase your red and white blood cell counts and also go over some pretty amazing mushrooms that have been associated with cancer prevention.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy and stress reduction. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

SHOW NOTES:

Facts and Statistics on Cancer for Men and Women:

• 1 in 2 people in the USA will get cancer at some point in

    their life.

• Most Common Cancers Among Women
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Women
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Most Common Cancers Among Men
  • Prostate cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
• Leading Causes of Cancer Death Among Men
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer 
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Liver cancer

Foods to Avoid:

• GMO's
• Hydrogenated Oils 
• Microwave Popcorn
• Processed Meats
• Diet Foods with Artificial Sweeteners
• Artificial Flavors and Colors
• Refined Sugar
• Refined White Flour
• Farm Raised Fish
• Foods Sprayed with Glyphosate or other Pesticides and

    Fungicide.

Lifestyle Habits:

• Maintain Alkalinity 
• Antioxidant intake 
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Detoxification
• Limit exposure to environmental toxins
• Sunlight and Exercise 
• Reduce stress 
• Get Sleep

Eating Habits - The American Diet is full of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, bleached flour, artificial ingredients and colors, farmed fish, and toxic sources of meat.  Focus on getting a diet full of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

• Leafy Green Vegetables - Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes, yet very low in calories, fats, sodium and other toxins. 

• Cruciferous Vegetables - Source of vitamins C and K, the powerful antioxidant Glutathione, and estrogen metabolizing compounds DIM, Calcium D Glucarate, and Indole-3 Carbinol.  

• Berries - The antioxidant content of most berries are very high, making them some of the most powerful foods in the world.  Berries are known to be a great source of proanthocyanidin antioxidants, which help to decrease free radical damage. 

• Brightly Orange-Colored Fruits and Veggies - an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and carotenoid antioxidants. 

• Healthy Fats - Most of the fats found in the American diet are toxic and cause damage to our cells.  However, 60 percent of our brain and nervous system are made up of fatty acids. Omega 3's support inflammation response, mood, and focus, and help us maintain a healthy heart and help to protect our cells. Examples of healthy fats:
  • Hemp Oil
  • Chia Oil
  • Flax Oil
  • Algae Oil
  • Fish oil
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Nuts and Seeds - Chia seeds, hemp Seeds, and flax seeds are and excellent fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals. Hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds contain healthy fats Magnesium and Zinc.  Brazil nuts are the best source of selenium. Sprouted nuts have the widest range of benefits.

• Fresh Herbs and Spices -Try to incorporate organically grown, immune boosting spices like turmeric, ginger, oregano, and garlic into your recipes and vegetable juices.

• Fermented Foods - Cultured foods are a great source of probiotics.  Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help digest food, get nutrients into the system, and boost immune function. A healthy gut is imperative to staying healthy.  It is believed that up to 80% of the immune system is in the gut!

• Medicinal Mushrooms - Potent immune-enhancers that have been used to fight cancer for centuries. Reishi, cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function and cell regeneration.

• Green Tea - Not only is it a great pick me up, green tea is an excellent source of cancer fighting antioxidants that are several times more potent than Vitamins C and E called polyphenols.

• Garlic - We mention Garlic under spices, but keep in mind that it's known to boosts white blood cell count.

Important Health Factors:

Healthy Blood Cells

• Red Blood Cells and Oxygenation - 
  • We have to have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.
  • Warburg won the nobel prize in 1931 after figuring out

that once a cell has less that 60% of the oxygen it needs cancer occurs.

• Important because cancer cells are Anaerobic and proliferate through burning glucose.
• Healthy cells are Aerobic and thrive with sufficient oxygen
• Best way to build red blood cells is by consuming chlorophyll - it's the closest thing to hemoglobin in the plant world.

• co-factors that help build red blood cells
  • Vitamin B6 
  • Vitamin B9
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin A 
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • CoEnzymeQ10 - nutrient vital for the production of energy in the mitochondria. Powerful antioxidant that is also used in the mitochondria to transport oxygen. CoQ10 must be there for your cells to produce energy using oxygen because it transports oxygen to where it needs to be.

• White Blood Cells - cells are produced in the bone marrow, and typically work as part of the immune system to fight off bacterial and viral infections.
  • We have to have white blood cells to fight off invaders and to combat cancer cells.

• Vitamin D3 
  • Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are linked to poor immune functioning, which may translate to low white blood cell counts.

• Clinical research shows that vitamin D can help prevent cancer best when you acquire about 50–70 nanograms per milliliter daily.

• Get 20 minutes of sun exposure every day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with 40 percent of your entire body exposed to the sun or take an oral supplement containing around 5,000 to 10,000 IUs of D3 every day. 

• Zinc 
  • Linked with the production of white blood cells
  • According to The American Cancer Society, studies have shown that zinc levels in blood and inside white blood cells are often lower in patients with certain types of cancer.

• Selenium
  • The University of Maryland Medical Center states that selenium can help build up white blood cells and move them around. Some studies also indicate that selenium may help prevent some infections. Another study indicated that when the elderly takes both zinc and selenium supplements, their immune systems responded better to the flu vaccine than those who took placebo.

• Vitamin B9 (Folate)
  • The body needs folate to make white blood cells.  A deficiency of folate can also lead to anemia, which is a low level of red blood cells. 

• Vitamin C
  • an immune enhancer that helps white blood cells perform at their peak and quickens the immune system's response.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids
  • Help combat inflammation and helps make white blood cells.

Adaptogens boost Immune Function and modulate white blood cell count.

• Astragalus Root
  • Helps boost white blood cells
  • University of Texas found that Astragalus Root enhanced the immune system's ability to identify bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells.

• Cat's Claw
  • Modulates the white blood cell count - if the white blood cell count is too low, it will increase it, and if it's too high, it will decrease it.

• According to herbalist Maya Cointreau, "cat's claw increased the ability of white blood cells to find and eradicate foreign micro-organisms. It also increases the body's production of T-cells, helping to fight infection more effectively." 

• Reishi Mushroom
  • Source of polysaccharides that have been shown to better activate Natural Killer cells reducing cancer metastasis. Natural Killer cells are lymphocytes that seek out tumors.

• Reishi also has been shown to assist in slowing the growth of tumors as well as prompting programmed cell death in malignant cells. 

• Maitake Mushroom
  • Stimulates Natural Killer cell activity in cancer patients.
  • Believed to suppress tumor growth and to trigger malignant cell death through its specific immune-enhancing methods.

• Agaricus Blazei Murill
  • Activates macrophage and interferon immune activity leading to tumor shrinkage and stopping metastasis.

• Reduces chance of future cancer occurrences. 
• Also shown to decrease the side effects of chemotherapy or certain types of cancers.

• Turkey Tail
  • Studies show that it increases Natural Killer cell activity towards tumor detection and eradication.

Soursop (Graviola) - 

• Found to be stronger at killing cancer cells than chemotherapy. 

• Studies show compounds found in Soursop kill cancer cells, but do not harm healthy cells.

Nutrients that Support Breast Health 

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

• Estrogen Metabolizing Nutrients

• DIM (diindolylmethane) – Found in all cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. DIM forces estrogen to break down into a non-cancer promoting type of estrogen in the liver

• Calcium D-glucarate -Also found naturally in cruciferous vegetables, as well as fruits, such as apples, oranges, and grapefruit.  It aids the liver in the production of glucuronic acid, which binds to "bad" estrogens and deactivates them.

• Indole-3 Carbinol - Also found in cruciferous vegetables, Indole Carbinol has been found to benefit estrogen metabolism. Remember that it's the "bad" estrogen that is cancer promoting. 

• Aromatase Inhibitors - Antioxidants that block aromatase, an enzyme that helps to create estrogen. There's a type of bad estrogen is believed to fuel breast cancer cell growth. Examples: 
• Grape seed extract
• Chrysin - biofavaniod compound found in propolis, honey, and passionflower.
• Parsley
• Cruciferous Vegetables 

 Nutrients that Support Prostate Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Prostate Health:

• Saw Palmetto -This herb has shown to reduce prostate inflammation and enlargement

• CBD oil (Cannabadiol) - cannabinoids have been found to inhibit the growth of this ID-1 gene and to return cancerous cells back to healthy cells.
  • Prostate cancer patients have high levels of the ID-1 gene.

• Lycopene - An antioxidant found to prevent and even reverse prostate cancer as well as prostate enlargement. This is the red pigment contained in foods such as tomatoes and watermelon.

• Stinging Nettle Root - Studies have shown it to reduce the symptoms associated with prostatitis.

Nutrients that Support Lung Health:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Omega 3's
• Vitamin D3
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin E
• B6, B9, B12

Herbs that Support Lung Health:

• See list of Medicinal Mushrooms above
• See Astragalus Root above

Today's podcast is our "Feel Good" show where we will be joined by Adriene Mishler who is the co-founder of the website findwhatfeelsgood.com, she also leads a Yoga community of over a million people on YouTube with her weekly class called Yoga with Adriene.  

When we talk about herbs and extracts on the show we often talk about how it makes us feel. It's important to have a sense of connection with your body and this goes for anything you do, whether it's things you put into it or things you do with it. 

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy, stress reduction and a healthy libido. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.  

Herbs make you feel good!

The modern lifestyle can be overwhelming stressful.

• We end up overworked
• We are overstressed
• We are over-critical
• We are restless and sleep deprived.

The result:

• Improper Stress Response
• Cortisol is out of balance -constant release of cortisol and fight or flight hormones can have harmful results:
  • weakened immune response
  • problems with sleep
  • over-stressed mind
  • general fatigue
  • harmful inflammation.

Adaptogens and Nervines help you feel good:

• Adaptogens help us to decrease stress and fatigue, while promoting healthy levels of energy and boost mood.
• Herbal nervines can help calm the nerves allowing us to relieve stress and tension by calming the nervous system. Some nervines even act as nervous system tonics, strengthening and restoring the nervous system over time.

Adaptogens - Rare herbs that are safe, non-toxic and generally normalizing to various systems and organs in the body. The help the body adapt to stress weather is be emotional, physical, or environmental.

Nervines - Herbs that are nutritive to or generally support the nervous system with varying effects.

Sedatives - Herbs that relax the nervous system and promote restful sleep.

Tonic - Herbs that strengthen or tonify an organ or system in the body.

Ayurveda - The traditional Hindu system of health and medicine, based on maintaining balance among the five elements earth, air, fire, water, and ether.  The word Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words "ayur," meaning life, and "veda," meaning knowledge.

Holy Basil (Tulsi) - Referred to as "The Elixir of Life", Holy Basil is a Ayurvedic herb famous for its ability to promote positive mood and relaxation.  It's and adaptogen associated with adrenal health, respiratory tract function, and celebrated for its ability to help the body cope with stress and inflammation.  It has a clove like aroma and makes a tasty herbal infusion. It's one of our favorite sipping herbs at the Power Plant podcast.

• Vana - known for its aromatic fragrance, Vana Tulsi is a powerful plant with green leaves and stem and white flowers. It's been used for centuries and can be found in the Himalayas as well as India, Asia and Africa.
• Rama- Know for is sweet aroma and great taste, Rama Tulsi has been used for centuries to promote a calm, alert mind, promote relaxation, and to support strength and stamina.
• Krishna - known to be the most "medicinal" of the Tulsi family, Krishna Tulsi has an aromatic, sweet, and clove-like flavor. It is named after the blue skinned God, Krishna, because is dark purple leaves resemble the color of the widely revered Hindu God.

Adaptogenic Herbs that help combat stress and boost energy:

• Ashwagandha - A key herb in Ayurveda, the traditional medical system of India, that is known as a Rasayana or herb that gives strength. It is one of the most popular adaptogens on Earth because of its ability to safely improve the bodies resistance to stress, restore youthful energy, combat inflammation, and balance the stress hormone, Cortisol.

• Ginseng (American, Chinese, Korean) - There are 3 popular types of Ginseng used around the world; Chinese, Korean, and American. Chinese Ginseng (Ren Shen) is considered the "king of herbs" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is celebrated as THE premier tonic herb. Ginseng's active compounds, referred to as ginsenosides, are known to restore qi (pronounced "chi") or energy levels and to support a calm, alert mind. Korean Ginseng has similar properties, of course the Koreans report that Korean Ginseng is more potent than Chinese Ginseng. American Ginseng, known as the 'Yin Ginseng', has similar ginsenosides to its Chinese and Korean counterparts, although is traditionally viewed as a gentler tonic better suited to people with excess metabolic heat, including but not specific to menopausal women.  It can also help promote a relaxed, calm attitude among those prone to stress and overwork.

• Rhodiola Rosea - A favorite among athletes and herbal practitioners, Rhodiola has a reputation as one of the world's greatest mood and energy tonics. It's unique array of phytochemicals have been researched for their ability to regulate key neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Rhodiola Rosea is a versatile herb that can help you manage stress, boost your mood, restore your energy, and invigorate your workout.

• Tongkat Ali - Decoctions of Tongkat ali roots have been utilized for centuries in Malaysia and Southeast Asia to support energy levels and mood. In modern times body builders and athletes love it for its ability to promote lean muscle mass. Although commonly taken by men, Tongkat ali can also support women's libido, mood, and energy.

Nervine Herbs that promote GABA:  

GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) - the main inhibitory or calming neurotransmitter in the brain, GABA influences our mood by reducing high levels of the hormones adrenalin, noradrenalin and dopamine. It also affects the neurotransmitter serotonin. Having sufficient GABA in our brain is linked to being relaxed and happy, while having too little GABA is associated with sleep problems, and feeling anxious, stressed, and depressed.

• Lemon Balm - a member of the mint family, this calming herb has been used in Europe, the Mediterranean, Northern Africa, and India for thousands of years because of its myriad benefits. The rosemarinic acids present in Lemon Balm are believed to boost levels of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter, in the brain.

• Chamomile - One of the most famous nervine herbs used to calm the nerves and to promote restful sleep. Passion Flower - A calming nervine that help relax the nervous system, relieving tension and restlessness and promoting restful sleep. It's also a common ingredient in herbal aphrodisiacs. 

• Magnolia - A calming nervine popular for keeping the stress hormone, cortisol, in check. In addition, Magnolia also promotes GABA making it a choice sleep aid as well.

• Valerian (Sedative) - Valerian is a potent nervine and a strong sedative. It is commonly used in herbal sleep remedies and formulas used to relieve tight muscles. There are some people that find Valerian to do just the opposite and act as a stimulant and cause paranoia.

• Passionflower – A nervine herb native to southeastern parts of the Americas, Passionflower is now grown throughout Europe and in the United States as well. It has been treasured historically for its' ability to allay anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. It has also been used. It is believed that Passionflower works by increasing GABA levels.

Other useful Nervine Herbs:

• Oatstraw – Although it is not a sedative, Oatstraw is a nervine tonic that is generally beneficial to the nervous system. It has also been used to gently restore vigor libido and acts as a restorative to the Adrenal glands. The amazing plant can get you through a stressful day or help you get a good night's rest.

• Lavender – A herb that's calming to the mind and uplifts the spirit. It's commonly used in Aromatherapy and is used in calming herbal infusions to relieve anxiety and promote restfulness. Some people refer to Lavender as "herbal valium".

Herbs that boost immune function and keep you feeling good in the long run:

• Astragalus Root – Adaptogenic herb made famous in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) that helps boost white blood cell count and helps to normalize immune function. In TCM it is also celebrated as a powerful energy tonic. 

• Lemon Balm - a member of the mint family, Lemon Balm is native to Southern Europe and India. It is classically used to calm the nerves, relieve anxiety, and to boost immune function. It's also used to treat cold sores, herpes, and shingles.

• Medicinal Mushrooms (Ex. Reishi, Corcyceps, Agaricus, Turkey Tail, etc) - Powerful adaptogenic mushrooms that boost white blood cell count and help normalize immune function. Don't get these mushrooms confused with the common variety store bought mushrooms. Button mushrooms and other hybridized mushrooms do not have medicinal value and could be toxic in some cases if not prepared properly.

• Adaptogens - in regards to long run immune health, Adaptogens work by normalizing the immune system. If the immune system is underperforming it strengthens it, but if it's over performing it normalizes it.

Herbs that help you feel better when your sick:

• Oregano Oil - herb used to remedy the common cold, flu, and bronchitis. It's a versatile plant also used for ear aches, intestinal parasites, allergies and sinus pain. We at Power Plant prefer Wild Mediterranean Oregano in most situations.

• Echinacea Purpurea and Echinacea Angustifolia - an herb native to areas east of the Rocky Mountains, different species of Echinacea are used to fight the common cold, the flu, and other upper respiratory infections.

• Andrographis - plant native to Southern Asian frequently used for preventing and treating the common cold and flu.

• Thieves Oil - Legend has it that during the times of the Bubonic Plague that thieves went from house to house to rob those who had died for Plague. A special blend of oils to protect themselves from getting this deadly disease. The powerful blend of oils they used is known as Thieves Oil and continues to be used in modern times to support immune function.

Holy Basil Oatstraw Infusion recipe: Makes 32 oz. of tea

Ingredients:

• 1 Oz dried Holy Basil (Krishna, Vana, and Rama Blend)
• 1 Oz Oatsraw
• Pinch of Damiana
• Pinch of Passionflower
• Pinch of ground Vanilla bean
• Pinch of clove buds to enhance flavor

Instructions: Separate the Damiana and Passionflower into a separate teabag. Combine the rest of the herbs together and place them and the Damiana, Passionflower teabag into a quart sized ball jar. Pour boiling water over the herbs, and tighten the lid. Steep for 20 minutes, then pull the Damiana, Passionflower teabag out. Tighten the lid back down and steep the Holy Basil, Oatstraw, Clove Buds, and Vanilla Bean for an additional 6 hours. This is done to extract the valuable minerals out of the Oatstraw and to maximize taste!

Chill and Enjoy!

Today's show is about sexual function. The two key issues we run into when talking about sexual function is the desire to have sex and the actual function of having sex. When we talk about sexual function it applies mostly to the physical function of sex, mainly erectile dysfunction. This might explain why there are 24 FDA approved treatments for men and as of 2015 only one approved treatment for women. What's interesting is that sexual dysfunction effects 43% of women compared to 31% of men and yet we only see commercials for correcting male erectile dysfunction.

When we look at why sexual dysfunction happens, it's mainly due to a lack of desire due to stress and anxiety which can lead to depression and low energy. We'll explore herbs and extracts that can help with these symptoms and we'll also be taking your calls. We'll hear from Jenn in Buffalo, NY who is in the early stages of menopause and is dealing with low estrogen levels as well as a lack of desire to have sex. We'll also hear from William in Boise, Idaho who is suffering from erectile dysfunction do to both stress and communication issues with his partner. On the call, William tells us he started taking Viagra and hasn't told his partner because he's afraid she will be upset and cause more friction in the relationship. Last we will hear from Sue in New Jersey who has a question regarding the desire to have sex. Sue has HSDD (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder.) She loves her partner but feels her libido switch has been turned off. She's considering taking the FDA regulated drug "Addyi" and is worried about low blood pressure side effects.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy, stress reduction and a healthy libido. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet. 

SHOW NOTES:

Herbs and plants that might be beneficial for sexual desire in men and women:

1. Relaxing herbs to help you get you in the mood:

• Avena Sativa 
• Passion Flower
• Lemon Balm

1. Tonic herbs and herbs that help balance cortisol and sex hormones:

• Ashwagandha
• Ginseng
• Maca
• Tribulus Terrestris
• Cordyceps
• Holy Basil
• Tongkat Ali
• Cistanche Tubulosa

1. Stimulating herbs and herbs that direct blood flow:

• Damiana
• Tongkat Ali
• Catuaba
• Muira Puama
• Cistanche Tubulosa
• Safed Musli

1. Herbs and Plants that support heart health and blood flow.

• Beets
• Hawthorn Berry
• Cayenne 
• Ginger

1. Aphrodisiac Spices you can add to herbal infusions to enhance flavor:

• Vanilla 
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom
• Ginger

How to pair herbs when making a special blend for you and your partner:

Try to pair a nervous system stimulant with something that's mood enhancing and balances cortisol.  It could be beneficial to add something that promotes blood circulation as well.  You can pick herbs from a few of the categories listed above based on your preferences to make an infusion with your partner.

Think about the elements as you make your blend.  If you have experience with herbs, you may be able to mix something up intuitively. If you are a beginner here's an example of one way you can think about it:

GABA - Promotes a positive, welcoming mood.

Cortisol - Stress hormone that might turn you off!

Nitric Oxide - Supports blood flow

Stimulant - In this sense, something that might direct blood flow to the pelvic region.

So we have cornered some of the elements that compose a nice herbal aphrodisiac infusion! Now, we just have to figure out the perfect ratio to suit our individual needs! Be sure to look up recommended dosage ranges for these herbs.  Too much or too little might not do the trick. 

Here's is a very simple way to dial in your love tonic.  You might focus in on a couple of herbs and use smaller amounts of other herbs to create the perfect recipe.

1. Select a chief herb
2. Select a secondary herb
3. Pick some Herbs for enhanced synergy
4. Spices for added flavor if desired

Lemon Balm and Passion Flower promote GABA

Avena Sativa restores the nervous system while reliving anxiety

Holy Basil support cortisol balance

Damiana was traditionally used by natives from Mexico to increase sexual desire.  It's both stimulating and relaxing at the same time and is also known to promote a sense of well-being.  It is also believed to stimulate Nitric Oxide and direct blood flow to the pelvic region.

Sample Infusion Recipe:  Passion Flower & Damiana Elixir

Passion Flower, Holy Basil, Avena sativa, and Damiana.  This blend would be great at night because it might also help you sleep well!

Try adding Vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg or cayenne to spice your infusion up.  

Sample 2: Chocolate and Maca Elixir

Maca - Directs blood flow and is known to boost mood and increase sexual desire.

Chocolate - Boosts mood and contains a lot of magnesium, which can help to calm the nervous system.  So basically, it can stimulate and help you relax at the same time.  

Try adding a table spoon of beet crystals to enhance blood flow.  It also adds a nice color to your chocolate and maca blend. 

Try adding aphrodisiac spices: Vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, cayenne or any combo that sounds good to you.

You can make a simple chocolate and maca elixir to help you get in the right mood! Start by taking a high quality organic dark chocolate bar and crumbling it up.  Heat 2/3 cup almond milk on low heat.  Add the chocolate crumbles and whisk until it is well blended.  Add 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Gelatinized Maca powder.  Whisk in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne, etc. if desired.  Remove from heat and serve in a mug. Enjoy!

You can use raw cacao powder, sweeten with beet crystals if you prefer.  If you like it bitter, use unsweetened, dark chocolate or raw cacao.

Tonic Herbs that can be taken in the long run to promote healthy sexual function, balance sex hormones and cortisol:

• Tongkat Ali
• Avena Sativa
• Ashwagandha
• Cistanche Tubulosa
• Ginseng (American and Asian)
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Eleuthero Root
• Cordyceps
• Tribulus Terrestres
• Moomiyo or Shilajiit
• Licorice Root

Lifestyle choices:

1 Diet: We need key nutrients like zinc, selenium, b - vitamins, omega 3's, and vitamin D to make sex hormones and to take care of the Adrenal glands.  We also need sound nutrition to make neurotransmitters that can boost mood.

2. Exercise:We have to be healthy to have a healthy libido.  Exercise, but don't over-do it! Too much exercise is another form of stress and can actually lower hormone levels.

3. Get counseling:Some problems you can solve on your own, but you shouldn't feel bad about seeking professional help when you need it.

4. Communicate with your partner: Chances are you both have some anxieties that can be talked through. Social engagement is the most advanced way to cope with stress.  Effectively communicating with your partner can add to intimacy and build the trust you need to feel comfortable with your sexual expression.

5. Get sunlight:  You need sunlight to make vitamin D3 and to help your body make neurotransmitters as well

Having issues with sleep? Maybe you wake up often in the middle of the night and can't get back to sleep or you find yourself unable to fall asleep. Sleep issues effect 50 – 70 million people in the US alone. In this episode we'll break down how sleep works and what you can do to try and get back on track. We'll will be taking calls from Jerry in Philadelphia, who has Parkinson's Disease and is looking for some natural suggestions to get a better night's rest, we'll also hear from Liz in Los Angeles who travels a lot and is looking for an alternative to ambien. Finally, we will hear from Jeff in Los Angeles who has gone from being a deep sleeper to a light sleeper and is looking for suggestions to get back to a good night's rest.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy, stress reduction and a healthy libido. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet. 

• SHOW NOTES -

Interesting facts about sleep insufficiency.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention):

• Sleep has officially been recognized as something of importance to public health.
• Sleep insufficiency is linked to several hazardous outcomes. 
• Persons experiencing sleep insufficiency are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases, cancer, increased mortality, and reduced quality of life and productivity.
• Around 50-70 million US adults have sleep or wakefulness disorder. 

Neurotransmitters, Hormones, Amino Acids, Vitamins, and Minerals that impact the quality of our sleep: 

• GABA- an acronym for gamma aminobutyric acid.  GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning in it has a calming effect on the body.  If we rely on the calming effects of GABA to help us get a good night's sleep.

• Cortisol- a stress hormone associated with our fight or flight response. In an ideal situation it peaks in the morning when we wake up and is at its lowest point when we go to sleep (around 10 pm).  Cortisol management is imperative to sleep.

• L - Tryptophan -  because our bodies can't make L- Tryptophan is categorized as an essential amino acid. That means in order to optimize your sleep it's important to have an enough L - Tryptophan in your diet. It is necessary precursor to serotonin.

• Serotonin- the neurotransmitters responsible for regulating the sleep/wake cycle, serotonin is the immediate precursor to Melatonin.

• Melatonin- a hormone secreted by the pineal gland that allows us to fall asleep. Optimal sleep melatonin should peak around 10 PM.

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal-5'-phosphate) - Vitamin B6 is necessary to facilitate conversion of tryptophan into serotonin.

• Vitamin B9 (folate) - folate deficiency can result in low serotonin levels. 

• Magnesium - A mineral with many functions including supporting the nervous system and brain.  Magnesium is believed to help reduce cortisol and helps relax the muscles.  It is also believed have an effect on key neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. It is the 4th most abundant mineral in the body and it's responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Magnesium is necessary for a healthy stress response, a balanced mood, and sound sleep.

• L - Theanine -  an amino acid found in green and black teas. It's famous for its ability to promote alpha wave activity in the brain resulting in a feeling of relaxation and mental clarity.  L-Theanin is an excellent choice for stress support, focus, or calming down before bedtime.

Sleep Etiquette Basics:

1. Prioritize sleep.  Get whatever it is your body requires (7-9 hrs. generally).
2. Try to go to sleep around 10pm, when cortisol levels are at their lowest and melatonin levels are at their highest.
3. Stop eating 2 hours before bedtime, and stop hydrating at least an hour before bedtime. 
4. Create at dark environment to sleep in.  Avoid light before bedtime, including T.V., computers, and smart devices that emit light.  You can even dim the lights ahead of time when you're ready to unwind.
5. Try not to hit that snooze button in the morning.  We don't want to interrupt our hormone and neurotransmitter cycles.
6. Avoid the use stimulants, especially in the afternoon and evening. 
7. Diet - East a balanced diet rich in magnesium, Tryptophan, B-6 (Pyridoxal-5'-phosphate), B-9 (Folate), and Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
8. Moderate sugar intake, especially late at night.
9. Get adequate exercise, but don't over train!

Herbs that may help you sleep:

1. Herbs believed to promote Gaba:

• Passion Flower
• Chamomile
• Lemon Balm
• Valerian
• Magnolia
• Hops

1. Herbs believed to help balance Cortisol:

• Magnolia
• Ashwagandha
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Avena Sativa (Wild Milky Oats)

1. Herbs believed to help balance Serotonin:

• Rhodiola Rosea - Can be energizing so take in early in the day for added stress and mood support.

• St John's Wort - A popular herb celebrated for its ability to boost mood.

• Ginseng - Is known to be energizing so take it early in the day for added stress and mood support.