Thursday, July 26, 2007

What type of Pepper can get Prostate Cancer Cells to Self-Destruct?

Capsaicin (pronounced: cap-say-a-sin) is the stuff that turns up the heat in jalapeños. Not only does it cause the tongue to burn, it also drives prostate cancer cells to self-destruct, according to studies published in the March 15, 2006, issue of Cancer Research.

According to a team of researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical and their colleagues from UCLA, the capsaicin in hot peppers caused human prostate cancer cells to undergo “programmed cell death”, a process otherwise known as apoptosis (pronounced: ap-op-toe-sys).

Apoptosis is a natural process in many tissues that maintains a healthy balance between newer replacement cells and aged or worn out cells. In other words, the old worn out cells are naturally programmed to self-destruct. Cancer cells, on the other hand, often dodge this process by mutating the genes that participate in the process of apoptosis

This new research showed that capsaicin induced approximately 80 percent of prostate cancer cells growing in mice to follow the molecular pathways leading to apoptosis. Moreover, prostate cancer tumors treated with capsaicin were about one-fifth the size of tumors in non-treated mice.

“Capsaicin had a profound anti-proliferative effect on human prostate cancer cells in culture,” said Sören Lehmann, M.D., Ph.D., visiting scientist at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the UCLA School of Medicine. “It also dramatically slowed the development of prostate tumors formed by those human cell lines grown in mouse models.”

Lehmann estimated that the dose of pepper extract fed orally to the mice was equivalent to giving 400 milligrams of capsaicin three times a week to a 200 pound man, roughly equivalent to between three and eight fresh habañera peppers per week – depending on the pepper’s capsaicin content.

The pepper extract also curbed the growth of prostate cancer cells through regulation of androgen receptors, the steroid activated proteins that control expression of specific growth relating genes. On top of all that, the hot pepper component also reduced cancer cell production of PSA, a protein that often is produced in high quantities by prostate tumors and can signal the presence of prostate cancer in men. PSA is regulated by androgens, and capsaicin limited androgen-induced increases of PSA in the cancer cell lines.

Habañeras are the highest rated pepper for capsaicin content according to the Scoville heat index. Habañera peppers, which are native to the Yucatan, typically contain up to 300,000 Scoville units. The more popular Jalapeño variety from Oaxaca, Mexico, and the southwest United States, contains 2,500 to 5,000 Scoville units.

Hook up with capsaicin and a healthy prostate today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Can Raw Food Cure Illness?

In March 2005 Dr. James Howenstine, MD. wrote and article for NewsWithViews.com addressing the very question, "Can Raw Food Cure Illness?"

He writes, "How much raw foods can accomplish in treating chronic illnesses is well illustrated by the immigrant Russian, Igor Boutenko’s family. Their son Sergie, age 9, was a heavy consumer of dairy products who had become obese and developed juvenile diabetes with blood sugars ranging from 200 to 400. His mother was encouraged to have him stop the use of dairy products and cooked foods and eat only raw foods. He initially balked but when confronted with the prospect of a life full of insulin injections decided to give the diet a try (high intake of dairy products is known to produce juvenile diabetes). Within two weeks he felt so much better he asked his mother if he could continue the raw food diet. Five months later his blood sugars had returned to normal. He remains in good health at age 20.

Father Igor at age 38 had developed hyperthyroidism with white hair, insomnia, fatigue, heart rate of 150 and a progressing arthritis. He was advised to have radioiodine therapy. Igor began the raw food diet and in a few months all his symptoms were gone.

Daughter Valya had been ill from infancy and developed asthma at age 9 with fatigue. On the raw diet her asthma disappeared as did the fatigue.

Doug Graham DC grew up taking antibiotics. He had nasal tubes to drain his sinuses and was annoyed by severe dandruff and a progressive spinal arthritis. At age 23 he already had severe changes of osteoarthritis in neck x-rays. At age 25 he started a raw food diet. Within 3 years all his symptoms had disappeared and his neck x-rays had returned to normal. The healing of bony abnormalities by simple dietary changes gives strong proof about the importance of what we eat."

These individuals are not alone in moving toward perfect health by changing their diet. Whole Food Farmacy receives numerous testimonials which speak of the amazing health benefits customers receive while on the 13-Day Tri-Decathlon and the 13-Day Liquithon.

Can eating raw food help your health condition? Isn't it worth it to you to find out how great you can feel in just13-Days?

Try the 13-day Tri-Decathlon or Liquithon today at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

You may be surprised by an additional benefit of moving toward your ideal weight. Now wouldn't that be great!

With your health and wellness through raw food in mind.

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com.





Tuesday, July 03, 2007

The Little Red Berry That Could!

Imagine a little red berry that fights cancer, age-related diseases like loss of memory, heart disease, ulcers, and even cavities. Sound to good to be true? Allow us to introduce our friend, the Cranberry!

In 1996 laboratory studies conducted by University of Illinois scientists and published in Planta Medica demonstrated the potential anti-cancer properties of cranberries. More recently researchers at the University of Western Ontario demonstrated, in animal models, that human breast cancer cells showed significantly lower incidence of tumor development when the experimental group's diet was supplemented with cranberries.

USDA scientists at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University have been finding promising results associated with diets high in antioxidants and other phytonutrients. Preliminary studies suggest that diets containing fruits and vegetables with high ORAC values may provide protection against chronic age-related afflictions like loss of coordination and loss of memory. ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity which is a measure of the antioxidant activity for a particular food. Cranberries score very high on the ORAC scale at 1750 ORAC units per 3.5 oz. serving.

A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association reported that a unique cranberry juice component, a high-molecular-weight nondialysable material (NDM), has the ability to reverse and inhibit the coaggregation of certain oral bacteria responsible for dental plaque and periodontal disease in vitro. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition reported on a preliminary clinical trial using a mouthwash containing cranberry NDM. Saliva samples of the experimental group showed a two order of magnitude reduction in Streptococcus Mutans compared with the placebo group. This is exciting news because a large percentage of cavities can be attributed to Streptococcus Mutans.

Flavonoids have been shown to function as potent antioxidants both in vitro and in vivo and may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries). Cranberries contain significant amounts of flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds that have been demonstrated to inhibit LDL (bad cholesterol) oxidation. Ongoing research continues to suggest that cranberries may offer a natural defense against atherosclerosis.

Peptic ulcers are increasingly being attributed to infection by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, as oopposed to stress and/or stomach acidity. A high-molecular-weight nondialysable constituent of cranberry juice has been shown to inhibit the adhesion of H. pylori to human gastric mucus in vitro. These preliminary results suggest that cranberry may be beneficial in the prevention of peptic ulcers through the inhibition of H. pylori adhesion to gastric mucus and stomach tissue.


You can find cranberries in your favorite Wholefood Farmacy foods such as, Cranberry Phi , Phi Plus, Fruitalicious, and Fruitalicious Plus. Cranberries are also an awesome addition to a smoothie made from any of our fruit based Farinas such as BeautiPhi, ClariPhi, ElectriPhi, FructiPhi & GloriPhi. Here’s an idea to try – in blender, add 2 tbsp of your choice of Farina, a little ice water, a couple of ice cubes and a handful of cranberries. Blend on high for about 30 seconds and enjoy!


Hook Up with the Cranberry - The Little Red Berry That Could improve your Health Today!


www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Friday, June 22, 2007

Are you Dehydrated?

Dehydration, says Dr. Marofsky, is a condition that occurs when you lose more fluids than you are taking in. The amount of fluid in your body then drops below the level needed for normal body function. This fluid is made up of water, electrolytes, and waste products. Surprisingly, your body loses about 2.5 liters of water per day through urine, sweat, and evaporation from your breath.

"Electrolyte" is a scientific term for salt ions. Body fluids -- blood, plasma, interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) -- are like seawater and have high concentrations of sodium chloride, containing the electrolytes sodium and chloride. Your body contains other important electrolytes including potassium, calcium, and bicarbonate. It uses electrolytes to carry important electrical signals to and from the brain.

Dehydration symptoms start when 2% of your normal water volume is lost. They include dizziness, headaches, dry skin and mouth, cramps, profuse sweating, darker and less urine. More severe symptoms may include: impaired mental performance, stumbling, shriveled skin, sunken eyes, muscular spasm, and nausea, and could eventually lead to heat stroke. Thirst is an indicator of dehydration, but not an early warning sign. By the time you feel thirsty, dehydration has occurred.

Avoid dehydration by drinking water and replenishing the necessary electrolytes. Your body is made up of 60% to 70% water which is essential for digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, joint lubrication, and detoxification.

Dr. Howard Flaks, a bariatric (obesity) specialist in Beverly Hills, California, says, "By not drinking enough water, many people incur excess body fat, poor muscle tone and size, decreased digestive efficiency and organ function, increased toxicity in the body, joint and muscle soreness, and water retention." The minimum amount of water recommended for a healthy adult is 8 to 10 eight-ounce glasses a day. Your body will require more on hot days or when engaged in physical activity.

Incredibly 10% of Americans drink no water at all, and unfortunately, drink about 6 servings a day of coffee, soda, and other caffeinated beverages. These drinks cause the body to lose water, making the problem worse.

Hook Up With Health and the Wholefood Farmacy Stardust 2 Hydr8 for a great way to help your body to operate at peak performance and to maintain proper hydration. Mixing one level teaspoon of Stardust 2 Hydr8 with a gallon of water and then drinking one or two glasses per day is a wonderful way to keep up your levels of electrolyte and to stay properly hydrated.

Hook Up With Health by staying properly hydrated today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Why are Electolytes Important?

The human body is an “electrical machine”. All vital bodily functions happen as a result of electrical signals being sent between the various parts of your body and your brain. In order for your body to operate at peak performance, these electrical signals must be conducted in an efficient manner- this is where electrolytes come in.

Electrolytes are substances that will conduct electricity when dissolved in water – the most common electrolyte in your body is salt.

Your body is 70% water, about two-thirds of the water resides inside your cells, (intracellular fluid) and about one-third resides outside of your cells, (extra cellular fluid). Your body works constantly to make sure that the intracellular fluid and extra cellular fluid have the same amount of electrolyte concentration – this is a very important component of homeostasis or your body’s inner balance.

The mechanisms that monitor and adjust the balance of electrolytes respond only to changes in extra cellular fluid such as blood. When someone is ill or injured and taken to the hospital, one of the first and most common procedures is to hang an I.V. which simply means injecting salt water directly into the blood stream. Doing so helps the body to operate better because electrical signals moving between the brain and the body can be better conducted.

In addition, when salt is added to the extra cellular fluid it causes water to move between the intracellular and extra cellular areas allowing the body to become properly hydrated. This is why athletes, for example, take salt pills or drink “sports drinks” during work-outs. Sports drinks are simply salt water, or other electrolyte solutions, mixed with artificial colorings, artificial flavorings, artificial sweeteners and chemical preservatives.

The Wholefood Farmacy offers a wonderful product called Stardust 2 Hydr8 for only $8 and it allows you to make 20 gallons of a pure, hydrating electrolyte solution. When mixed with water, Stardust 2 Hydr8 offers you all of the benefits of a saline or electrolyte solution without any needles or artificial additives. It is made from pure salt and bicarbonate which are the main components of extra cellular fluid. Stardust 2 Hydra8 is mixed one tea spoon to a gallon of water creating a mildly saline solution - also referred to as an "electrolyte solution".

Stardust 2 Hydr8 is a great way to help your body to operate at peak performance and to maintain proper hydration. Mixing one level teaspoon of Stardust 2 Hydr8 with a gallon of water and then drinking one or two glasses per day is a wonderful way to keep up your levels of electrolyte and to stay properly hydrated.

Hook up with Stardust 2 Hydr8 and proper hydration today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Friday, June 01, 2007

200% More Antioxidant Power

Science has recently discovered the benefits of eating Almonds in their whole form. Recent research reveals that the flavonoids in "almond skin" works synergistically with the vitamin E found in almonds. This synergistic combination creates more than 200% the antioxidant power of the almonds and almond skins when separated.

"We have identified a unique combination of flavonoids in almonds," said Jeffrey Blumberg, Ph.D., senior scientist and director of the Antioxidants Research Laboratory at Tufts University. "Further blood tests demonstrated that eating almonds with their skins significantly increases both flavonoids and vitamin E in the body. This could have significant health implications, especially as people age."

Blumberg's team tested the effects of almond skin's flavonoids alone and then in combination with the vitamin E found in almonds. The tests were done on blood samples containing LDL cholesterol. While almond skin flavonoids alone enhanced LDL's resistance to oxidation by 18%, when the almond’s vitamin E was added, LDL's resistance to oxidation was extended by 52.5%!

"The synergy between the flavonoids and vitamin E in almonds demonstrates how the nutrients in whole foods such as almonds can impact health," says Dr. Blumberg.

You can find almonds at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com in many of your favorite foods such as Phi Plus, Cranberry Phi, Coco Cherry Phi as well as all seven Wholefood Farmacy Farinas!

Hook Up With Almonds today for 200% more Antioxidant Power!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Thursday, May 17, 2007

Hurry - Check out EWG's Pestiside Guide

For years, you've been able to choose foods with less fat or fewer additives. Now, with Environmental Working Group's 4th edition of the popular Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, you can minimize your chemical exposure in the produce aisle. Just go to http://www.foodnews.org/getguide/.

There you will find EWG's best and worst list of fruits and vegetables plus their recommendation to eat a varied diet, wash all produce, and choose organic when possible to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

Hurry - get your guide today.

You can also rest assured that www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy products are additive free. Try great tasting meal replacements, snacks and wonderful personal care products today.

With your pesticide free health and wellness in mind!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Hook Up With Farmacy Pro-Power

New Product News!

Hook Up with Whole Food Farmacy's new "Farmacy Pro-Power" - a delicious green drink, enhanced with sought after probiotics** designed to offer smooth, clean energy combined with whole body nutritional support in only one serving per day. The refreshing mint taste is pleasing to the palette and the wonderful nutritional blend will be pleasing to your body, mind, and spirit.

Farmacy Pro-Power flavor comes from an amazing blend of Red Raspberries, Blueberries, Pineapple, Orange Juice, Apple Fiber, Green Tea, and Spearmint.

Farmacy Pro-Power is a combination of proprietary blends which include an Energy Blend, Immune Support Blend, Digestion Blend, Cellular Repair Antioxidant Blend and a Healthy Aging Blend.

ENERGY BLEND:
Siberian Ginseng - Eleutherococcus, Suma, Stevia, Bamboo, Cinnamon, 
Gingko Biloba - 24%, Equisetum Arvense, Lecithin Powder, Nova Scotia 
Dulse.
 IMMUNE SUPPORT BLEND: 
Silymarin Silibum Marianum - 80%, Damiana, Astragalus Membranaceous, 
Royal Jelly 5%, Plant Enzymes: Lipase, Protease, Amylase, & Cellulase.

DIGESTION BLEND:

Organic Flax Seed Meal, Rice Bran Powder, Apple Fiber,
Apple Pectin and a healthy Non-Dairy Probiotic Culture. 
 
CELLULAR REPAIR ANTIOXIDANT BLEND:
Natural Rose Hips and Acerola Berry Powder, Orange Juice Powder, Bioflavonoids (Citrus),
Blueberry Powder, Grape Seed Extract - 92%, Pineapple Powder, Green Tea Catechins - 60%,
Red Raspberry Powder, Turmeric Powder, Dandelion, Freeze Dried Aloe Vera, Spearmint, Ginger Powder,
Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol).
 
HEALTHY AGING BLEND:
Organic Barley Grass Powder, Organic Beet Powder, Carrot Powder, Parsley Powder, Chlorella (cracked cell),
Spirulina Powder and Watercress Powder.

Antioxidants found in Red Raspberries, Blueberries, and Green Tea can help extend the life of your cells and
aid in healthy aging. Silicia rich Bamboo and Horsetail can help strengthen hair, nails, and connective
tissues (ligaments, muscles, bones, joints, and skin). Ginger, Tumeric, and Aloe Vera can help reduce
inflammation and support the recovery of sore muscles. Milk Thistle, Dandelion, Parsley, Watercress, and fiber
all contribute to detoxification of the liver, kidneys, and colon.
 
Moreover, Farmacy Pro-Power contains absolutely NO fillers, added sugar, yeast, corn, wheat, soy protein,
dairy, egg, MSG, GMOs, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Farmacy Pro-Power will be appealing to young and old alike and will offer a wonderful alternative to
commercial energy drinks. Many parents are concerned about these commercial energy drinks which are
little more than a combination of sugar, caffeine, artificial coloring, and chemical preservatives.

Now you and your kids can enjoy the pure, smooth, clean energy that nature provides combined amazing
whole body nutritional support.
Please note: Farmacy Pro-Power will be taking the place of Farmacy Greens. 
Farmacy Pro-Power offers a wonderful way to Hook Up With Health right now.

Try Farmacy Pro-Power today at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com.

You're just one click away from feeling great today... so try all new Farmacy Pro-Power right now at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com.

**Probiocs defined by Wikipedia

Probiotics are dietary supplements containing potentially beneficial bacteria or yeast, with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as the most common microbes used. LAB have been used in the food industry for many years, because they are able to convert sugars (including lactose) and other carbohydrates into lactic acid. This not only provides the characteristic sour taste of fermentedyogurt, but acts as a preservative, by lowering the pH and creating fewer opportunities for spoilage organisms to grow.

Friday, April 20, 2007

Good news for "Chocoholics"

Some “chocoholics” who just couldn’t give up their favorite treat have inadvertently done their fellow chocolate lovers - and science - a big favor.

A recent study at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine was focused on blood platelets and blood clots. The study participants, some of whom were fond of eating chocolate, were given a list of foods to avoid – the list included chocolate. It seems that some of them ended up indulging their cravings for chocolate during the study.

Amazingly, their indulgence led to researchers to an important discovery which is believed to be the first of its kind. Through biochemical analysis, the researchers are now able to explain why just a few squares of chocolate a day can reduce the risk of heart attack death in some men and women by almost 50%. It turns out that the chocolate decreases the tendency of platelets to clot in narrow blood vessels.

“What these chocolate ‘offenders’ taught us is that the chemical in cocoa beans has a biochemical effect similar to aspirin in reducing platelet clumping, which can be fatal if a clot forms and blocks a blood vessel, causing a heart attack,” says Diane Becker, M.P.H., Sc.D., a professor at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Becker cautions that her work is not intended as a prescription to gobble up large amounts of chocolate candy, which often contains diet-busting amounts of sugar, butter and cream. But as little as 2 tablespoons a day of dark chocolate - the purest form of the candy, made from the dried extract of roasted cocoa beans - may be just what the doctor ordered.

Are you fond of eating chocolate? Try mixing your high quality dark chocolate with some Phi Plus – you might be amazed by your own findings…….

Hook up with Health and enjoy 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate Today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Monday, April 16, 2007

Lookin for a Great DATE?

The American Cancer Society recommends that you consume 20-35 grams of dietary fiber a day. Dietary fiber comes in two forms – soluble and insoluble. Each serves a valuable function. Insoluble fiber increases the rate at which food moves through the digestive system. Soluble fiber may help control diabetes by decreasing elevated blood glucose levels. Soluble fiber also had been found to help lower serum cholesterol levels, particularly undesirable low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

Dates are a great source of dietary fiber. According to researchers at the University of Scranton in Scranton Pennsylvania, dates have the highest concentration of polyphenols among dried fruits. The findings of this research suggest that dried fruits should be a greater part of the diet as they are dense in phenol antioxidants and nutrients, most notably fiber.

A serving of power-packed dates contains 31 grams of carbohydrates, making them a powerhouse of energy. Carbohydrates include 3 grams of dietary fiber and 29 grams of naturally occurring sugars such as fructose, glucose and sucrose to provide quick energy and are readily used by the body. Dates are a perfect energy boosting snack.

Dates are one of the best natural sources of potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral your body needs to maintain muscle contractions including the vital heart muscle. Potassium is needed to maintain a healthy nervous system and to balance the body’s metabolism as well.

Since potassium is not stored in the body, and much is lost in perspiration, it must be continually replenished. As you consume potassium you excrete sodium, helping to keep blood pressure down. As people age, their kidneys become less efficient at eliminating sodium. About a 400 mg increase in potassium intake has been associated with a 40% reduction in the risk of stroke. This roughly amounts to one additional serving daily of Dates.

Dates also contain a variety of B-complex vitamins – thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6 and pantothenic acid. These vitamins have a variety of functions that help maintain a healthy body – to metabolize carbohydrates and maintain blood glucose levels, fatty acids for energy, and they help make hemoglobin, the red and white blood cells. Dates also contain Magnesium which is essential for healthy bone development and for energy metabolism and Iron which is essential to red blood cell production. Red blood cells carry all the nutrients to cells throughout the body. In addition, Dates are fat and cholesterol free!

Phi Plus is our most popular food of all – it is handcrafted from dozens of whole food ingredients. Phi Plus is rich in Dates and all of their wonderful health imparting properties. Try some Phi Plus today?

Hook Up with a Great Date at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com.


Sunday, April 08, 2007

Is rBGH in Milk Safe?

rBGH - What is it and is it safe for us to drink in milk?

rBGH (recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone) is a genetically engineered, potent variant of the natural growth hormone produced by cows. Manufactured by Monsanto, it is sold to dairy farmers under the trade name POSILAC. Injection of this hormone forces cows to increase their milk production by about 10%.

Monsanto, supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), insists that rBGH milk is indistinguishable from natural milk, and that it is safe for consumers.

According to a new book entitled "What’s In Your Milk?" An Exposé of Industry and Government Cover-Up on the DANGERS of the Genetically Engineered (rBGH) Milk You’re Drinking, with an introduction by Ben Cohen, Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and foreword by Jeffrey M. Smith, author of the bestseller Seeds of Deception, this is blatantly false.

rBGH makes cows sick.

Monsanto has been forced to admit to about 20 toxic effects,
including mastitis, on its POSILAC label.

rBGH milk is contaminated by pus, due to the mastitis commonly induced by rBGH, and antibiotics used to treat the mastitis.

rBGH milk is chemically and nutritionally different than natural milk.

rBGH milk is contaminated with rBGH, traces of which are absorbed through the gut.

rBGH milk is supercharged with high levels of a natural growth factor (IGF-1), which is readily absorbed through the gut.

Excess levels of IGF-1 have been incriminated as a cause of breast, colon, and prostate cancers. IGF-1 blocks natural defense mechanisms against early submicroscopic cancers.

rBGH factory farms pose a major threat to the viability of small dairy farms.

rBGH enriches Monsanto, while posing dangers, without any benefits, to consumers, especially in view of the current national surplus of milk.

The risks of cancer to consumers and particularly their children, especially those enrolled in the Public School Lunch Program, are undisputable.

"What's in your Milk" follows the research of Dr. Samuel Epstein who made a very persuasive and important case about hidden dangers in every day consumer products. And not only does Epstein raise our awareness about possible carcinogens in our milk supply, but also about how special corporate interests seek to keep the public in the dark about documentation relating to health hazards of their products.

Hook Up with Health by buying rBGH-FREE Milk and other Dairy Products today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Monday, April 02, 2007

Don't be fooled by all "ZERO" Trans Fat claims!

Some information came across my desk last week that really got me fired up and I want you to know about it and pass it along to your friends.

We have all seen the signs on our junk food - Zero Trans fats- and we feel good that we can eat these beloved products guilt free. Right? WRONG!

Do you know what Zero trans fats really means?
1. If a product has less than 1/2 gram or less per serving of Trans Fats, then the label can say "Zero Trans Fats." That's the first issue.
2. What if the serving size used to be 20 crackers? Well that has too many trans fats so now the companies manipulate the serving size to 3 crackers per serving so that the amount of trans fats per serving will be less than 1/2gram. Will you only eat 3 crackers?
3. Some products really don't have trans fats so how will you know?

You must still read the labels.
80% of the products that say Zero Trans fats have hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated fats in the ingredients. Read the ingredients.

Remember why we don't want trans fats? Coronary Heart Disease. Trans fats increase the LDL's or "bad cholesterol" while lowering the HDL's or "good" cholesterol. In 1994 trans fats caused 30,000 deaths from heart disease. Trans fats make your cell membranes stiff which diminishes your ability to eliminate cellular waste (getting rid of toxins.)

Hook up with health by staying informed and reading product labels - starting today.

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Thursday, March 29, 2007

What's Wrong with Trans Fats?

A lot has been written about Trans Fatty Acids and how they are bad for your health. Let's explore this thinking by looking at what Dr. Frank B. Hu of the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, wrote.

"Humans cannot synthesize, or create, trans fatty acid. The only source is through diet."

Where in our diet are trans fats found?

The main source of trans fat in our diet is partially hydrogenated oils that are plentiful in cookies, crackers, pastries and fried foods.

Hu continues, "Eliminating the use of partially hydrogenated oils and other sources of trans fat in the U.S. diet -- as long as saturated fat intake doesn't increase -- will likely help reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease."


What is Partial hydrogenation?

Partical hydrogenation is an industrial process used to extend the shelf-life in baked products, provide longer fry-life for cooking oils, and provide a certain kind of texture or "mouthfeel". Partial hydrogenation also turns a perfectly good vegetable oil into a very unhealthy food ingredient. The big problem is that partially hydrogenated oils are loaded with trans fat.

What's wrong with Trans Fat?

The amount of trans fat in red blood cells correlates significantly with the amount of trans fat consumed. Trans fat is also associated with increased levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol and decreased levels of "good" HDL cholesterol.

One study, which adjusted the factors that might influence the results, showed women with the highest trans fatty acid content in red blood cells were three times more likely to develop heart disease than women with the lowest trans fatty acid content in red blood cells.


Wholefood Farmacy foods have zero trans fats and zero cholesterol.

Let me repeat this...

Wholefood Farmacy foods have zero trans fats and zero cholesterol.

Wholefood Farmacy foods are also wonderfully delicious, natural, and nutritionally dense. Wholefood Farmacy products are a great way to start your family, children, and loved ones on the path to health, vitality and longevity.

Hook up with a Healthy Diet FREE of Trans Fats today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Monday, March 19, 2007

What's the Problem with EXPIRED Box Mixes?

What's the Problem with boxed Pancake Mix - MOLD!

Mold grows in EXPIRED pancake, cake, brownie, etc mixes - so the first thing to do is check your product label for an expiration date before using the mix. IF THE EXPIRATION DATE IS PAST DUE - THROW IT OUT. Here's a TRUE STORY to learn from...


A woman recently made a batch of pancakes for her healthy 14-year-old son, using a mix that was in her pantry. He said they tasted "funny," but ate them anyway.

About 10 minutes later, he began having difficulty breathing and
his lips began turning purple. She gave him his allergy pill, had him sit on the sofa and told him to relax. He was wheezing while inhaling and exhaling.

Her husband, a volunteer Firefighter and EMT, heated up some water, and they had their son lean over the water so the steam could clear his chest and sinuses. Soon, his breathing became more regular and his lips returned to a more normal color.

They checked the date on the box of pancake mix and, to their dismay, found it was very outdated.

As a reference librarian at an academic institution, the woman had the ability to search through many research databases. She did just that, and found an article the next day that mentioned a 19-year-old male DYING after eating pancakes made with outdated mix.

Apparently, the mold that forms in old pancake mix can be toxic!

When they told their friends about their son's close call, they were surprised at the number of people who mentioned they need to check their own pancake mix since they don't use it often, or they had purchased it some time ago.

With so many people shopping at warehouse-type stores and buying large sizes of pancake mix, I hope readers will take the time to check the expiration date on their boxes.
>
> Also, beware of outdated cake, brownie and cookie mixes.
>
> PASS IT ON!!!!
>
> This is TRUE--Check it out!
>
>
> http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/pancake.asp
>

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Does the Size of Your Stomach Matter to Your Weight?

With spring in the air, millions of people are once again becoming focused on shedding those unwanted pounds that seem to sneak onto their waistlines during the winter months. Others are preparing to renew their commitment to losing weight and declaring victory once and for all – we applaud you and are here to help.

With weight loss in mind, there is probably one topic that you haven’t considered… the size of your stomach. The stomach is much like a muscle, and like any muscle it can be stretched and will remain stretched until we stop stretching it. The capacity of a normal adult’s stomach is about 4 cups by volume, but many have stretched their stomach to two or even three times it’s normal size. This can happen by eating overeating on a regular basis and in our society super sized fast food meals and all-you-can-eat buffets are only making the problem worse.

When your stomach becomes stretched as a result of overeating it will remain stretched for a period of time. After eating a huge meal before bed, some wonder why they wake up feeling hungry. It’s because the stomach has become stretched and now feels empty. If you are one who has stretched your stomach to two or even three times it’s normal size, you now have to eat two or three times a normal amount of food in order to feel full and satisfied. Have you stretched your stomach? Can you eat more than 4 cups of food and still have room for more? If so, the chances are that your stomach is in a stretched condition.

The good news is this… as soon as you stop stretching your stomach it will quickly begin to return to its normal size. Can you imagine eating a normal portion of food and feeling so full that the thought of just one more bite would seem painful to you? Helping your stomach to return to its normal size is the very foundation of a permanent solution to a weight related challenge and The Wholefood Farmacy’s 13 day program known as the Tri-Decathlon Delux can help you get there in no time at all!

If you would like complete information regarding 13 day programs and learn how to help your stomach return to its normal size - we have a 24 hour hotline that is standing by to be of service to you. This 30 minute recorded call is and educational experience beyond words and offers a complete overview of our 13 day programs along with a discussion of the underlying principles, exactly how it works, exactly how to do it and answers to frequently asked questions.

Are you ready to make a fresh start and to declare victory once? If you're committed to a healthier YOU, Dial 620-294-1381 and listen up. You will be surprised, pleased and inspired.

When you're ready, place your Tri-Decathlon Order at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com.

Hook up with Health, a smaller stomach, and great tasting and extremely satisfying food to put in it.

Have a Healthy Day!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com


Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Does an Apple a Day REALLY have an impact?

You've heard it a thousand times. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Did you ever stop and ask yourself how? Today you will find out the secret behind that Granny Smith, Rome, or Delicious Apple.

True, "Eating your fruits and vegetables" is one of the tried and true recommendations for a healthy diet - and for good reason. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help you ward off heart disease and stroke, control blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent some types of cancer, avoid a painful intestinal ailment called diverticulitis, and guard against cataract and macular degeneration, two common causes of vision loss.


But what does "plenty" mean? More than most Americans consume!

The latest dietary guidelines call for five to thirteen servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Imagine eating 15 golden delicious, Washington, or Macintosh a day. That's a lot - isn't it?

The largest and longest study to date, completed as part of the Harvard-based Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, included almost 110,000 men and women whose health and dietary habits were followed for 14 years. The higher the average daily intake of fruits and vegetables, the lower the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. According to these two Harvard studies, for every extra serving of fruits and vegetables that participants added to their diets per day, their risk of heart disease dropped by 4 percent.


Increasing fruit and vegetable intake by as little as one serving per day can have a real impact on heart disease risk. That's right, just one winesap apple a day will do it!


Fruits and vegetables are clearly an important part of a good diet. Almost everyone can benefit from eating more of them, but variety is as important as quantity. No single fruit or vegetable provides all of the nutrients you need to be healthy. The key lies in the variety of different fruits and vegetables that you eat.



That’s why your favorite Hook up with Health Wholefood Farmacy Foods are made from a wide variety of great tasting fruits and veggies!

Fruitalicious, Fruitalicious Plus, Veggielicious and Veggielicious Spice offer a delicious and very convenient way for you, your family and your children to get plenty of fruits and veggies every day. YUM!

Hook up Health and one more piece of fruit a day!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Thursday, February 22, 2007

YAMS - Why are they SO GOOD for you?

Did you know that Yams are a good source of both potassium and vitamin B6, two nutrients that your body needs every day? That's right. Yams containg both Vitamin B6 and Potassium, plus more.

Vitamin B6 helps your body break down a substance called homocysteine, which can cause damage to blood vessel walls. High intakes of vitamin B6 have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Potassium is a mineral that helps to control blood pressure. In the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) study, one study group ate servings of fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy food in place of snacks and sweets. This approach offered more potassium, magnesium and calcium. After eight weeks, this group lowered their blood pressure by an average of 5.5 points (systolic) over 3.0 points (diastolic). Yams also contain a storage protein called Dioscorin. Preliminary research suggests that Dioscorin can help your body to achieve increased kidney blood flow thereby reducing blood pressure.

In addition, Yams' complex carbohydrates and fiber deliver the goods gradually, slowing the rate at which their sugars are released and absorbed into the bloodstream. Because they're rich in fiber, yams fill you up without filling out your hips and waistline. Yams are also a good source of manganese, a trace mineral that helps with carbohydrate metabolism and is a cofactor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and antioxidant defenses.

At hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com you can find our Farmacy Gourmet V-10 Creamy Yam Soup. It's a yummy way to offer your body all of the wonderful benefits that Yams have to offer.

Hook up with the benefits of YAMS today

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Monday, February 19, 2007

Are you RAIS-IN your hands for a top antioxidant food?

Raisins rank among the top antioxidant foods, according to USDA government tests. Early findings suggest that eating plenty of fruits high in antioxidants, such as raisins may help slow the processes associated with aging in both body and brain.

Andrew J. Dannenberg, M.D. a cancer researcher at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University reports that the antioxidant catechin, found in raisins and some other fruits and vegetables, in the diet of mice genetically predisposed to intestinal tumors reduced the number of tumors by at least 70 percent compared to the control group. This type of study adds to the body of evidence which shows that components of fruits and vegetables have the potential to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, colorectal adenomas and other gastrointestinal tumors.

Carl L. Keen, Ph.D. from the University of California Davis reports that a significant amount of raisins eaten daily for 4 weeks increased the plasma antioxidant capacity. This in turn decreased the level of circulating oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) also known as the “bad cholesterol”. These data clearly show raisins are an important part of 5-a-day diet and that benefits of eating raisins are similar to benefits seen when eating other fruits and vegetables with these plant antioxidants.

Christine D. Wu, M.S., Ph.D. of the University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Dentistry has found that raisins contain compounds including oleanolic acid that inhibit in vitro growth of Streptococcus.mutans, the bacteria in the mouth responsible for tooth decay. Oleanic acid and other compounds in raisins also inhibit organisms associated with periodontal disease, including Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum. Oleanolic acid is most effective in suppressing in vitro plaque formation by Streptococcus mutans. Prevention of plaque building up on the tooth surface is critical both for preventing tooth decay and promoting healthy gums.

Mary Ellen Camire, Ph.D. of the University of Maine reports that dietary fiber and other components may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer by binding bile acids and causing their elimination from the body. Camire’s study confirms that eating fibrous foods, such as raisins, stimulates the body to replace the bile acids that have been eliminated by making them from its own cholesterol, thus potentially lowering serum cholesterol and the risk of coronary heart disease. Furthermore, bile acids that are bound by fibers such as those in raisins will not be metabolized to a more toxic form and this may potentially reduce cancer risk.

Gene A. Spiller, Ph.D. of the Sphera Foundation and Health Research Studies Center - Los Altos, CA reports feeding of raisins along with peanuts to 10-12 year old children prior to a soccer game resulted in lower increases in blood glucose and insulin than a snack of a white bagel and jam. This is important because it means a more steady fuel supply to the exercising muscle of the young players. Lower insulin levels are advantageous because high levels of circulating insulin can promote the laying down of fat and may lead to insulin resistance, a concern among US children today, where rates of obesity and type 2 Diabetes are increasing.

You, your family and your children can enjoy all of the health benefits that raisins have to offer with your favorite Wholefood Farmacy foods such as Phi Plus, Cranberry Phi, Fruitalicious, Fruitalicious Plus and Cornaborealis.

Hook up with Health and Raisins today!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Friday, February 09, 2007

Where's the Fruit?

PARENTS - LISTEN UP!!!

According to a study released by the Strategic Alliance for Healthy Food and Activity Environments over half of the most aggressively advertised children’s foods that prominently feature fruit on their packaging contain no fruit at all. Did you hear that? There was no fruit at all!!!!

The study - Where’s the Fruit? reveals that 51 percent of these commercially sold products do not contain fruit, and another 16 percent contain only minimal amounts of fruit despite prominent fruit promotions on the packaging.

“Parents drawn to products that seem healthier for their children based on references to fruit on the packaging are being deceived,” explains Leslie Mikkelsen, a registered dietician with the Strategic Alliance and lead author of the study. “Food and beverage companies are some of the most sophisticated communicators in the world and are clearly capable of accurately reflecting what is in their products if they wanted to.”

The Where’s the Fruit? study identifies the most heavily advertised children’s food products that include words and images of fruit and/or fruit ingredients on the packaging. A total of 37 products were included in the final study, and their ingredient lists were analyzed to determine the presence of fruit ingredients. A full 51% of the products contained no fruit ingredients at all despite the images of fruits and use of words such as “fruity,” “fruit flavors” and “berry” on the packaging.

“The nation is facing a staggering epidemic of chronic diseases that result from poor eating and physical inactivity,” cautions Dr. Andria Ruth, a pediatrician for the Diabetes Resource Center of Santa Barbara. “Children are particularly affected and these food companies are making parents’ jobs even harder by using misleading packaging to lead them to think that they are making a healthy choice when they are not."

If you’re tired of being misled when it comes to the food that your children eat, then let www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy be your oasis of truth amidst this desert of deception.

At Hook Up With Health we believe in truthfully describing our products and we don’t rely on fancy artwork or neon colored pictures to get the job done. All of our full sized food packages feature a clear see-though front panel so that you can actually see what’s inside.

Fruitalicious is 100% Fruit - and we’re proud to show you what’s inside.

With your health and wellness in mind!

www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com

Friday, January 12, 2007

How to Avoid the Dangers of Contaminated Food?

In September 2006 an outbreak of E. coli sickened over 100 people in 21 states and killed at least one peron.1 Recently grocers were forced to pull spinach from their shelves after learning of a dangerous bacterial contamination. Infectous contamination hits even quality restaurants, organic produce farmers, and fast-food alike.

How can you protect yourself? In his January 2007 Health Confidential Newsletter Dr. Al Sears offers this insight...

There are easy and effective steps you can take to reduce your exposure and lower your threat from infectious agents in your food.

First, start by understanding what Infectious Diseases are and how they spread.

Infectious Diseases are illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses and other microbes.

Infectious diseases have historically been the leading cause of death worldwide and are still the third leading cause of death in the US-where the annual cost of medical care for treating them is estimated at $120 billion.2

Infectious diseases spread by at least 4 routes:

1. Direct contact with an infected person or animal.
2. Ingesting contaminated food or water.
3. Insects like mosquitoes or ticks.
4. Contaminated surroundings like animal droppings or even air.3


Since foodborne Illnesses are becoming more common, it's also helpful to learn the red flags associated with each illness and the steps you can take to avoid them.

Common Foodborne Illness Red Flags...

The most common Foodborne Illnesses are caused by the bacteria E. coli 0157:H7, Salmonella and Campylobacter or bya group of viruses called Norwalkviruses.4

BUG
Major Symptoms
Source of Outbreaks

E. coli 0157:H7
Severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting (accompanied by little or no fever)
Undercooked beef, unpasteurized (raw) milk or juice, raw produce, contaminated water

Salmonella
Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, vomiting
Eggs, poultry, unpasteurized (raw) milk or juice, cheese, raw produce

Campylobacter
Diarrhea (often bloody), cramps, fever, vomiting
Undercooked poultry, unpasteurized (raw) milk, contaminated water

Norwalkviruses
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever
Poorly-cooked shellfish, ready-to-eat foods touched by infected handlers—such as salads and sandwiches


Finally, learn how Foodborne Illnesses effect you.

E. coli 0157:H7 is one of hundreds of strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli. Most strains are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals. However, this particular strain produces a powerful toxin that can cause severe illness.5

The vast majority of E. coli 0157:H7 outbreaks are associated with eating undercooked, contaminated ground beef (or swimming in sewage-contaminated water). However, the recent outbreaks of E. coli 0157:H7 in organic spinach and bagged produce underscore the possible associated with all kinds of foods.

Other spreaders of E. coli in 2006 include Taco Bell, Wendy's, Dole and a large California organic spinach farm.

Salmonella (discovered by the American scientist named Salmon) is actually a group of bacteria that causes diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. (as a note I had a family member who contracted salmonella at a day care and had diarrhea for 5 weeks, couldn't go back to the day care, and was contacted by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). These symptoms are for real!!)

In recent years, a new strain of antibiotic-resistant Salmonella-much of it from ground beef-has emerged and become more of a problem over the last decade. If you have poor underlying health or weakened immune systems, Salmonella can invade the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.

Recent case: Salmonella lawsuit filed against Wal-Mart - 2006.

Campylobacter is one of the most common bacterial causes of diarrhea in the United Sates-as well as the underlying cause of ulcers and intestinal distress.6 It usually does not pose a threat to your life. The key is to stay hydrated well by drinking lots of water.

Noroviruses-though hard to diagnose-are extremely common Foodborne Illnesses. Infected kitchen workers can contaminate a salad or sandwich as they prepare it, if they have the virus on their hands.

Despite the recent Norovirus Olive Garden outbreak, which sickened over 400 people, the Florida-based restaurant chain "maintains that it already has the industry's leading health and safety practices." 7

In addition, Noroviruses can be extremely dangerous-particularly among the elderly. Other outbreaks have occurred in other restaurants, nursing homes and even cruise ships.

Just how common are they?

Roughly 76 million Americans become sick...
More than 325,000 are hospitalized...
And 5,000 die each year from foodborne illness!8

Hook up with a Healthy Immune system today!!


PS. THE LIQUITHON products found at www.hookupwithhealth.wholefoodfarmacy.com can help you detoxify and revitalize your body.


FOOTNOTES

1 CNN. E. coli spinach scare increases to 21 states. http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/09/18/tainted.spinach/index.html
2 Infectious Diseases Sourcebook: Health Reference Series, 1st Edition. Omnigraphics. Copyright 2004, Page ix
3 Infectious Diseases Sourcebook: Health Reference Series, 1st Edition. Omnigraphics. Copyright 2004, Page 3
4 http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/foodborneinfections_g.htm#mostcommon
5 Infectious Diseases Sourcebook: Health Reference Series, 1st Edition. Page 75
6 "Two Win Nobel Prize for Discovering Bacterium Tied to Stomach Ailments," By LAWRENCE K. ALTMAN, Published: October 4, 2005
7 Health Dept.: Norovirus Caused Olive Garden Outbreak - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16268395/
8 Nutrition Action Health Letter - "Bugs Are Breaking Out All Over", December 2006. Page 4