Memory Enhancing Drugs vs Vitamins

Posted on February 21, 2012 by admin

Memory and performance enhancement can now be yours through use of “smart drugs”! Yes folks, you heard correctly. You can be you, only better just take this pill. Or, at least that’s how these new legal designer drugs are being advertised to students, athletes and professionals alike.

Nootropic is the classification they have come up with for this new area of the pharmaceutical market. The word is derived from the Greek word nous, or “mind,” and trepein meaning “to bend/turn”. Nootropics are thought to work by altering the availability of the brain’s supply of neurochemicals (neurotransmitters, enzymes, and hormones) and by improving the brain’s oxygen supply stimulating nerve growth. It is the hot topic these days, and certainly does not look like these drugs are going away any time soon.

Brains boosting supplements and vitamins have been around for centuries. You have likely heard of fish referred to as “brain food” before, and there is science behind that. Omega-3 is well known for its ability to improve cognitive function when taken on a regular basis. It has shown much promise in combating even Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Ginkgo Biloba (An antioxidant that supports healthy blood and oxygen flow to the brain, helping to improve brain function. Supports memory and circulation.)
Gota Kola (Supports the central nervous & circulatory systems supplying mental clarity)
DHEA (Supports the immune system, reduces stress levels, and makes you feel happier and more focused)
Pine Bark Extract (Powerful antioxidant 3x stronger than in Vitamin E and Vitamin C)
Coral Calcium (keeps muscles, nerves and blood working properly, promotes healing and strong bones)
Choline & Inositol (This combination helps prevent high cholesterol, promotes mood, better memory, mental clarity and concentration, energizes your body and mind)
DMAE (Shown to be helpful in improving memory and learning ability, mood stabilization, enhances mental alertness, as well as promoting healthy skin)

All have shown to benefit not only memory but enhance mood as well. All are safe and natural, but what about these newly coined “smart drugs”?

As tempting as popping a pill and becoming instantly smarter sounds, with movies like Limitless being released, where the lead character takes a new designer drug that looks similar to a shiny contact lens and within moments goes from the unfocused, uninspired, unable to concentrate looser writer wanna be to the super charismatic, memory enhanced, ultra focused, energetically organized, money making, dream version of himself that he has always wanted to be. This is not the reality of it.

Even in Limitless, there was a price to pay, consequences and serious side effects. By ingesting these largely untested drugs the waters we are delving into are dangerous. After all we are tampering with our very control center. The long-term results so far are not completely tested or known.

Here at HCBL we strongly feel that before taking any drug its important to do your own research. We always recommend that the natural way is always the better choice.

http://www.hcbl.com/

Articles:

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_52/b4114084625148.htm

http://www.nootropics.com/

http://www.doitnow.org/pages/186.html

Posted in ADD, anxiety, depression, Emotional Well Being, FDA, Health Center for Better Living Products, Herbs, higher learning, Mental Health, smart drugs | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tips for an easier delivery & How to prepare an all natural formula!

Posted on February 14, 2012 by admin


TIPS FOR AN EASIER DELIVERY:

Childbirth is one of the most stressful things the human body can go through. By nourishing it with the right supplements and food beforehand you can lessen the impact and pain felt during and after labor itself. Take note ladies! You will want to grab a pen and paper!

*Calcium decreases sensitivity to pain. (Taken with fat and Vitamin D to insure absorption – e.g.: Calcium tablets taken with a glass of whole milk) Take between the time labor starts and arrival at the hospital.

*Vitamin E: Gives greater muscular strength and assists in providing easier shorter deliveries. It also decreases the need for oxygen and the newborn stands a better chance at total health. Additionally a generous intake of vitamin E shortly before your delivery tremendously increases the elasticity and expandability of the vaginal tissues. (Vitamin C is also beneficial)

*Zinc: 15 mg. or more per day 1-2 weeks before delivery, cover underarms with zinc oxide each night – it is absorbed through the skin.

*Panothenic acid: The body’s requirement for panothenic acid skyrockets just before giving birth. It is recommended to consume fruits and vegetables daily also supply potassium to prevent edema.

*Vitamin K: (Yogurt and a cooked leafy green vegetable daily are essential to prevent hemorrhaging in a new baby.)

A hearty snack of whole milk, bread, cheese, and a fruit at the beginning of labor could prevent your baby’s blood sugar from dropping dangerously low.

Red raspberry leaves (tea) drunk at least during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy and or Comfrey tea – both are helpful after birth for healing.

Pack your daily supplements and take them with you to the hospital. Some doctors may say you don’t need them, but when your body is under stress it needs more nutrients. Bearing a child is probably the most stressful condition a body can go through. So make sure to keep taking your supplements.

*When nursing, drink at least 8-10 glasses of water (more important than milk or juice) per day.

PREPARING AN ALL NATURAL FORMULA:

To prepare a wonderful healthy all natural formula combine the following:

- 1 Quart of one of the following: medically certified raw milk, yogurt made from whole milk, acidophilus milk, cultured butter milk mixed with 1/4 cup light cream, pasteurized whole milk, or 1 quart of soy milk.

- 2/3 cup or 6 oz. boiled water.

- 3 tablespoons of milk sugar or lactose, increase gradually to 5 tablespoons.

- 1/2 shell of a boiled egg, thoroughly crushed to a powder and blended with a little milk or 2 tsp. calcium gluconate or lactate or 2 tbsp. calcium carbonate.

- 1 pinch of magnesium oxide or epsom salts. If stools remain formed or child is constipated gradually increase up to 1/4 tsp.

- 1/4 tsp. Vitamin C solution.

- 1/4 tsp. yeast

- 1/4 tsp. trace minerals (free from iron)

- 1/2 tsp. cold pressed safflower oil. (optional)

- 1/4 tbsp. lecithin (add if the oil is used)

In case the formula is not made of yogurt or acidophilus, add: 1 yogurt tablet, 1/2 tsp. acidophilus culture, or 1-4 tbsp. unsweetened yogurt or acidophilus milk. Combine all ingredients in a pitcher or blender. Stir well and fill bottles immediately, or keep in the refrigerator as needed.

Special Evening bottle: Since fat stays in the stomach longer than does any other food, 2 tsp. of cream or 1 tsp. of vegetable oil and lecithin might be put into this bottle. Since proteins have a high satiety value, an egg yolk or a little undiluted yogurt or evaporated milk and or 1-2 tsp. of yeast might be added.


*HOT TIP*: Save thousands in future dental bills – The NUK nipple (natural shape) is recommended by many dentists to assure proper mouth formation and straight teeth!

Posted in Babies, baby, Emergency Care, Health Center for Better Living Products, Home Remedies, pregnancy, teeth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fluoride

Posted on February 6, 2012 by admin

Water fluoridation is the controlled addition of fluoride in order to prevent tooth decay. The idea being that fluoridated water operates on tooth surfaces: in the mouth creates low levels of fluoride in saliva, which reduces the rate at which tooth enamel de-mineralizes and increases the rate at which it re-mineralizes in the early stages of cavities. Hence, giving people fewer cavities over all and your teeth longevity. Sounds good right? Of course, up till recently most of us thought it did.

But what IS fluoride? Fluoride is a salt of hydrofluoric acid compound containing fluorine, as methyl fluoride, CH 3 F. Ok, for most of us that definition did not help. It leads us to another question. What is Fluorine? Fluorine is the most reactive nonmetallic element – a pale yellow corrosive toxic gas. This leads me to the next logical question. Can a toxic gas really be good for us and where and what exactly does the fluoride we are adding to our water supply come from?

According to the New York State Coalition Opposed to Fluoridation as well as the National Health Federation, Fluoride, though existing in nature and found in rock, is laced with impure industrial waste product known as fluosilicic acid. Fluoride is a pollutant. It is a by-product of copper, iron and aluminum manufacturing. The problem of how to legally dispose of fluoride was solved in the 1930′s when a study (funded by one of the country’s largest aluminum companies) concluded that fluoride prevented tooth decay. A successful public relations effort, helped along with some cooperative government workers resulted in the good news going out: this miracle chemical, when added to water supplies, will give everyone healthy teeth and brighter smiles. The fertilizer industry may have solved their issue of what to do with their toxic waste product, but what about the public health and safety, and this claim that this fluoride infused water is healthy for our teeth and ok for us to consume? Evidence shows fluoridation does not reduce tooth decay. A tooth decay epidemic is rampant in the U.S. today, reports the Surgeon General and cavity crises are occurring in many, if not all, fluoridated cities and states.

Newburgh, New York was the first experimental city to dose its citizens with fluoride, in 1945, to conduct safety studies. The study was originally planned to last ten years but ended at only five, and was declared a success. Children sick two weeks before examination were excluded – eliminating the very children who might have been exhibiting fluoride’s adverse effects and no adults were studied. In this study they used sodium fluoride, which is not the fluoride chemical used by over 91% of U.S. fluoridating communities today – Silicofluorides.

www.fluorideinfo.org states “While the opponents to community water fluoridation may be well intentioned, there is no scientific basis on which anti-fluoridationists base their claims.” This is simply not the truth.

According to Dr. Barry Groves, PHD who has dedicated his time to exposing dietary misinformation, the very studies done by the WHO (World Health Organization) were greatly exaggerated, and even falsified. It has been shown in countries such as Finland, Denmark and Sweden when fluoride was removed from the water, the incidence of cavities actually reduced.

Fluoride is in fact, a highly toxic substance, which before deemed the ultimate cavity fighter, was used in rat poison and insecticides! According to the handbook, “Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products,” fluoride is more poisonous than lead and just slightly less poisonous than arsenic. So if indeed this all has been a ruse what does all this fluoride we are consuming really do to our bodies? The irony is when you consume too much fluoride your teeth can actually become discolored and crumble. But that’s just a small fraction of what it can do to you. In lab tests on animals fluoride has been shown to enhance absorption of aluminum, which has been shown to cause Alzheimer’s. It has also been linked to osteoporosis, damage of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, leading to limited joint mobility, ligament calcification, muscular degeneration and neurological deficits. But worst of all fluoride has been linked to as many as 10,000 cancer deaths per year (the majority in bone cancer, primarily in men).

The news gets even worse. Fluoride has also been shown to lower intelligence in children. In one study 907 children age 8-13 were measured in retrospect to the amounts of fluoride in their environment. The developmental intelligence appeared to be hampered severely the younger the child was when high doses were administered.

Fluoride has also been shown to calcify the pineal gland. The pineal gland is located in the center of your brain between the two hemispheres. It regulates the production of melatonin, which regulates the onset of puberty as well as protecting us from damage on a cellular level from free radicals. In some cultures the pineal gland is also believed to be what is thought of as the third eye, and our source of visualization and imagination.

What has this done to us as adults, who have grown up drinking this fluoridated water? Only time will tell. We can only suggest limiting your continued exposure to fluoride as much possible.

There are many good high quality fluoride free tooth pastes out on the market, as well as opting to drink distilled or fluoride filtered water from a system that utilizes a special filter or reverse osmosis, is a huge help for your health, no matter your age. Please read the information provided before purchasing any water filter. Most do not actually remove fluoride. Placing a filter on your showerhead is also a tremendous help as your skin when showering opens up its pores and allows fluoridated and chlorinated water to penetrate and absorb into your system.

There are also ways to remove fluoride from your body through internal cleanses, heavy metal detoxifications and chelation.

Its up to you to decide if you feel fluoride is ok for your to ingest, we suggest you do some research and make up your own minds.

Visit HCBL if you are looking for a wonderful way to purify your water of fluoride at home easily! http://www.hcbl.com/
product/Waterwise-Compact-Countertop-Distiller/

https://www.ewater.com/fvlcom

http://www.drwolfe.com/products/detail/13

http://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/

http://md1.csa.com/partners/viewrecord.php?requester=gs&collection=ENV&recid=3927109

www.Dictionary.com

http://fluorideinfo.org/FAQ.html#anchor2

http://www.second-opinions.co.uk/fluorideharm.html

http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/where-the-yellow-went.html

http://www.fluoridealert.org/health/pineal/

Posted in Dental, Disease, Emotional Well Being, FDA, Fluoride, teeth, Tips of The Week | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Ticked Off – The facts on Lyme Disease

Posted on January 31, 2012 by admin

Hiking, canoeing, camping, hunting, even just going for a walk enjoying nature can put you at risk for Lyme Disease in certain areas of the country, especially if you walk in high grass or have pets that may carry ticks home to you.

Lyme Disease also known by Borreliosis; Bannwarth Syndrome is a bacterial infection that is spread through the bite of the blacklegged tick. These ticks carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. They contract the bacteria originally when they bite infected mice or deer. It was nicknamed Lyme Disease because the first reported cases were in the town of Old Lyme Connecticut.

Though it’s theoretically possible to get this infection anywhere, it is most prevalent and localized in the areas of the east coast from Virginia to Maine, Wisconsin and Minnesota as well as Northern California.

At first you may start to feel a little under the weather, like you are coming down with a cold or possibly the flu. Fever, chills, headache and generally feeling ill are all symptoms shared between the flu and Lyme disease. However it is important to note that with Lyme disease you will also have light-headedness, possible fainting, extreme muscle pain and an increasingly stiff neck spreading down to your back. Laying flat on your back maybe the only semi comfortable position you can find and you may need assistance to sit up. Your throat may also swell making it nearly impossible to swallow anything other than liquids. If you do still have your tonsils intact, here is where you may see the first sign that they are indeed not a useless organ. Tonsils act as a filter to remove toxins from your body. During a bout with Lyme they will be working over time. If you see or feel a lump in the back of your throat, do not freak out. This is actually a positive thing. These lumps, usually white, off white, or yellow in color, are tonsil stones. You can get them out by contracting the muscles in the back of your throat or by using a wet cotton swab to gently push them free. Try your best not to swallow them. Your body is trying to get rid of the toxic substances they contain. Just a warning, they will smell atrocious. Additionally some experience itching – either full body or regional. Warm (not hot) baths with ½ cup of real oatmeal and ½ cup of honey are very helpful to the healing process. Also if you happen to be in an area where Jewel Weed grows this is the very best remedy we have found for rash or itching of any kind. (Jewel Weed even works on Poison Ivy!) Pick a good handful of Jewel Weed and boil it in water like you are making spaghetti. Once it reaches a boil, turn it off and let it cool. Strain out just the liquid and throw away the greens. Put it in a jar and let it get cold in the refrigerator. Then dab on with a cotton ball for ultimate cooling itch relief. Harsh soaps will only aggravate the problem so steer clear of them at all costs.

In most cases a tick must be attached to your body for 24-36 hours to effectively spread the bacteria to your blood stream. Many people who are bitten and exposed never actually contract the disease. The problem is that these ticks are so minute that you may not see it until it’s too late, or if ever. If you do find the tick, there is no standard for removal just get a pair of tweezers and pull it off of you removing the tick in it’s entirety.

The bite itself will be a raised red spot and may have rings that resemble a bull’s-eye. If you suspect you may have been bitten getting help as soon as possible is highly recommended. Anyone bitten by a tick should be watched closely for the next 30 days.

There are two schools of thought and treatment for Lyme Disease. The first and most widely known is treatment through antibiotics. Antibiotics can be given within 72 hours of removing the tick. A 2 to 4 week course is generally prescribed. Pain medications such as ibuprofen are sometimes given to relieve joint pain and stiffness.

The second option for treatment is homeopathic – treating the body with the essence of the disease in order to naturally build resistance. Bach Flower remedies make a tincture specifically for this purpose. The drops are taken sublingually (under the tongue) as to give the fastest absorption time directly into the blood supply. It is also important to note that these are safe for animals as well if you suspect your dog or cat has been bitten.

Additional to the Bach Flower remedy there are several other vitamins that help support the body during this condition allowing it to remain strong enough to form antibodies on its own to help ward off the disease. Vitamins recommended for Lyme Disease patients include: Cat’s claw, Digestive enzymes such as papaya, Niacin, B Complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Blue Green Algae and Flax seed oil. Flax seed oil is essential for healing Lyme Disease because of it’s high Omega-3 content. Take 3-6 teaspoons per day.

The importance of diet during this time is often over looked especially as it is sometimes very tough to swallow much of anything. Try to make what you eat count and work for you nutrient wise, not just for the sake of calories. Citrus fruits are highest in Vitamin C (lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits) should be eaten daily. If you simply can’t try some watered down natural lemonade, the sugar will make it slippery enough that it should go down without too much discomfort. Garlic is another important one. It works together with Vitamin C to kill bacteria, strengthen the immune system and ward off Candida (yeast) *Yeast infections are very common with Lyme Disease. It is recommended to ingest 1-3 cloves a day raw.

These remedies all work best if combined with exercise. We do realize that exercise in this condition is difficult at best. So take it easy on yourself. Do as much as you can comfortably at least 3 times a week, even if it’s just walking.

Whichever treatment you feel is best for you, catching this disease early is of utmost importance. Without treatment complications involving the joints, heart, and nervous system can occur.

Complications can arise and can include decreased concentration, memory disorders, nerve damage, numbness, pain, and paralysis of the facial muscles, sleep disorders and vision problems. Call your Doctor immediately or go to the ER if any of these persist.

How do you avoid this possibility all together? If you are going to be outside in wooded or grassy areas try to avoid tromping through high grass. Walk in the center of trails; check yourself and pets after going on walks. It is also helpful to treat clothing with a bug spray containing permethrin and shower including scrubbing your hair as soon as you get home from an outdoor adventure. Permethrin and Deet both though shown to be safe for humans may have unintended effects, if you want to lean toward something more natural you can mix 4-5 drops each of the essential oils – citronella, Rose Geranium, and Palmerosa oil with skin so soft and use as a spray or mix these oils in with an oil based body lotion such as coco butter and apply liberally.

Don’t let fear of Lyme Disease keep you from enjoying the great outdoors, just be ware and take a few simple precautions and you will continue to enjoy perfect health!

Important link for vitamin supplementation:
www.hcbl.com

Article References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002296/

http://www.medicinenet.com/lyme_disease/page2.htm

http://www.homeremedycentral.com/en/natural-cures/home-remedy/lyme-disease.html

http://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/REDs/factsheets/permethrin_fs.htm

http://www.samento.com.ec/sciencelib/4lyme/beyondantibiotics.html Dietrich K. Klinghardt, MD, PhD

Posted in Disease, Health Center for Better Living Products, Herbs, Home Remedies, Tips of The Week | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Pets and Vitamins

Posted on January 24, 2012 by admin

Humans aren’t the only ones that can benefit from vitamins and supplements. The majority of dog and cat foods on the market are not as complete as the ad campaigns would have us believe they are. We love our pets like they are members of our families and only want the best for them. Longevity and quality of life are two very important factors.

In an ideal world we would have the time to prepare meals from fresh natural sources not only for ourselves, but also for our pets. But in the hectic day-to-day environment we all live in, its lucky if we stop long enough to prepare meals for ourselves let alone consider fluffy or spot in the equation.

If you are a pet owner, it is likely at some point you have tried to give your dog or cat a pill. This is no easy task. You wrap it cleverly (so you think) disguised in cheese, meat, cream cheese, you name it – only to have the smart little creature manage to eat around and spit out the pill.

You then resort to trying to put it in his or her mouth and force them to swallow. This is tons of fun for all involved parties and also rarely works. You may even accidentally be bitten or scratched. Rather than have to treat your animals because they get sick or have an infection, wouldn’t it be better to be proactive and utilize preventative healthy vitamins and supplements as you do for your self and the rest of your family?

Most of us have never considered the option but vitamins work on both canine and feline immune systems just as well as humans. There are several pet multivitamin products that are readily available in stores. However, each pet’s nutritional requirements differ due to age, underlying illnesses and overall health. Sometimes it is easier to supplement individual vitamins based on your dogs or cats needs. It’s never a bad idea to double check with their vet before administering.

Here is a good general outline of recommended daily allowance, source that vitamin comes from naturally, and why they might need the supplementation.

You can easily mix these nutrients in with the pet’s wet food without them being any the wiser. Additionally brewers yeast along with garlic is great for both dogs and cats and helps with flea protection and gives a shiny healthy coat. As does apple cider vinegar.

Antioxidants are also safe and healthy for pets. Acai, pomegranate, and green tea are all good in moderation (Acai up to 50 mg/day, Pomegranate up to 50mg/day and green tea up to 25mg/day).

Water should be available for your pets to drink at all times whenever they are thirsty.

Is there a difference in vitamins for dogs, cats and humans? The answer is no. A vitamin is a vitamin. The difference is in the dosage given based on weight.

If your little fuzzy friend exhibits tell tale signs that he or she doesn’t feel well by all means a vet visit may be in order, but preventive health maintenance can certainly do its part in keeping your pet happy and healthy for years to come saving you money on Vet bills.

Where to buy:
http://www.hcbl.com/

Article references:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=1046

http://rdafordogs.blogspot.com/2007/07/vitamins.html

http://petcareeducation.com/dog/dog-health-advice/

http://www.vetinfo.com/dog-multivitamin-guidelines.html#b

Posted in allergies, Dental, Home Remedies, Pets, Skin care, teeth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fibromyalgia – Difficult to Diagnose…More Difficult to Live With.

Posted on January 17, 2012 by admin

Fibromyalgia is conventionally defined as chronic persistent muscle pain through out the entire body. Symptoms can be so severe that nearly a quarter of all those effected by it are unable to work. It strikes primarily women in their mid 30’s to mid 50’s. Fibromyalgia is often confused with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and both are very difficult to diagnose.

There are two classifications of Fibromyalgia – Primary, which occurs for no known reason. And post-traumatic which occurs as a result of some sort of major trauma such as a car accident resulting in whiplash, a fall or a strain. Though different, the symptoms are the same.

How do you know if you may have this condition? Here are some symptoms – muscle pain throughout the body, not just limited to an area or body part. It can also affect the joints and manifest itself as headaches and mimic or cause injuries like Carpal tunnel syndrome. You may also experience allergies, anxiety, depression, stiffness, dizziness, fatigue, IBS, mood swings, dry or watery eyes, sensitivity to light or cold, smells, numbness or tingling in extremities as well as intolerance to physical activity such as exercise. Also another symptom in women is painful menstruation. Areas of the body most affected include upper back, hips, knees, neck and ribcage all of which can feel even more painful when touched.

So what are you supposed to do if you have this condition? We have some suggestions.
While conventional doctors treat Fibromyalgia with painkillers that only masks the symptoms and does nothing to fix the underlying cause. It’s like sticking a doughnut on your car and never taking it into the shop to get a new tire.

What we suggest is first of all proper diet. For those that suffer with this condition it means eating only foods that support the immune system. Sorry, junk food, soda and candy are all out. No matter how tasty they are, they are detrimental to your health. Consider an organic diet. Fresh, organic, free range eggs, small amounts of organic dairy, tofu, beans, quinoa and wild fish. Avoid farm-raised fish, they are higher in toxins and mercury as well as have been fed antibiotics and dyes. Avoid shellfish entirely. What you should eat includes whole grains, legumes, red potatoes, squash, and vegetables. Also be sure to consume essential fatty acids in supplement form – fish oil, evening primrose oil, extra virgin olive oil, flaxseed and coconut. And drink lots of water!

You may also want to try acupuncture, which can increase blood flow and stabilize serotonin levels.

Aromatherapy – black pepper, birch, and ginger for massage with essential oils on the effected areas for pain management. To help with energy level sage, lavender, marjoram and rosemary can all be helpful.

Massage and body work are also very therapeutic. Make sure to inform your body worker that you have Fibromyalgia so that they can adapt their style and technique to make it comfortable and beneficial for you.

Energy work may also prove effective. This includes Reiki, Body Harmony, Healing Touch, and laying on of hands.

Many with Fibromyalgia have a hormone imbalance that can be helped by taking HGH (Human Growth Hormone). HGH, which is produced by the brain`s pituitary gland, is important for a wide range of health issues, including the health of the muscles. Although your body`s production of HGH started to decline at an average of 14 percent every ten years after age 20, people with fibromyalgia can also be experiencing imbalanced daily production of HGH, which primarily occurs during the first hours of sleep.

Cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands, is sometimes referred to as the stress hormone because it is during times of stress that it is most frequently secreted. During times of chronic stress, excessive amounts of cortisol can be produced by the adrenal glands, leaving them exhausted and unable to sufficiently regulate your body’s energy supply. Cortisol imbalances can eventually cause chronic fatigue, muscle pain and stiffness, immune problems, and sleep disorders, as well as diminish HGH production. All of these symptoms are also common with fibromyalgia, with research now showing a correlation between imbalanced cortisol and fibromyalgia.

Additional vitamins and supplements that may help are magnesium, calcium and Vitamin D.

While there is no cure for Fibromyalgia , hopefully some of these suggestions will help you manage the associated aches and pains.

All of these vitamins and supplements can be found at http://www.hcbl.com/

Reference Articles:

http://www.hghworks.com/

http://www.fmaware.org/

http://www.naturalcures.com/find-a-cure/866-fibromyalgia

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/fibromyalgia/article_em.htm

Posted in Disease, Emotional Well Being, Exercise, Health Center for Better Living Products, Herbs, Home Remedies | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Music, Moods & More!

Posted on January 10, 2012 by admin

It has been said that music can soothe the savage beast. Is there truth to this statement? Can listening to music have an effect on your health?
Listening to music is one of the few activates that involves using both hemispheres of the brain. It is intrinsic to all cultures and can have surprising benefits not only for learning language, improving memory and focusing attention, but also for physical coordination and development.

We all know the type of music you choose to listen to can have an immediate effect on your mood, so wouldn’t it follow that your health would ultimately be effected too?
We choose different types of music depending on our environment and activity – if you are driving long distance on a road trip you might select something upbeat and fast paced to energize you, while at the office most find its better to go with something more mellow and soft.

Research has shown that music stimulates brain wave activity synching itself to the beat thereby controlling the subjects heart rate as well as breathing. Its no wonder music can affect our moods so strongly with this amazing mind body connection!

Music therapy has been shown to help ward off depression and have a calming effect, easing muscle tension as well as promoting movement. It has been shown to lower blood pressure, boost the immune system and bring about a positive state of mind promoting relaxation and stress management. According to Roger W. Wicke, Ph.D., Mozart’s music reduced epileptic seizures by 65%, and was even effective for those who were comatose.

This brings about the question, is there one particular genre of music that is actually healthier for you than another? While we agree that beauty is subjective in and in this case in the ear of the beholder, it has been shown in studies that Classical Music, particularly Baroque Classical playing in the background while studying, listening to audios boosts the ability to absorb information and retain it accurately. Children with ADD and ADHD, when exposed to classical music on a regular ongoing basis are found to become less restless and less agitated lasting beyond the periods of listening. Plants also seem to favor classical tunes, flourishing and growing, yet when exposed to heavy metal or rock tend to wilt faster, need more water, and even sometimes die off. Not to say you should change your taste in music to please your houseplants.

To derive the greatest benefit, don’t just listen passively. Playing, writing or singing will give you the biggest boost. In one study a group of pre-school aged children were given music lessons while the second group was given computer lessons. The first group tested over all with a 2 to 3% IQ boost when compared again with the others and after two years of music lessons, pre-school children scored better on spatial reasoning tests than the other group of children that took computer lessons instead. So make some music! Sing out loud. The human voice, even if a little off key, has even been shown to help developmentally with premature babies slowing their heart rates enabling them to take in more oxygen. The benefits do not end with the young. Alzheimer’s patients and even stroke victims when exposed to music produced more HGH (Human Growth Hormone) which helps with everything from pain, aging, muscle mass and energy.

Before you start thinking music is the end all be all cure for everything we do want to let you know that there are some negative effects as well. When exposed to music that we take exception to blood pressure increases and a feeling of stress pervades. This could explain that all to familiar exclamation that every teenager hears from their parents at one time or another of “Turn that down!”

Music has even been used by the military in attempts to mentally wear down the enemy.

Music is vibration. Humans at the most base level are made of atoms containing energy particles which are vibrating so its no wonder we feel music to our very core and it affects us so strongly. The depth and range to which it can be used to support our health has not yet fully been understood, but the link is clear. So if you are feeling down, or under the weather, give it a try – put on some upbeat or relaxing music that you enjoy – best of all, unlike medication music has no side effects!

Referral articles:

http://stress.about.com/od/tensiontamers/a/music_therapy.htm

http://www.brainready.com/blog/music_for_your_brain_health.html

http://www.amc-music.com/seniors_social.htm

http://www.beautyden.com/healingmusic.shtml

Sing!

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Colon Cleansing – Reduce Toxins & Improve Your Health!

Posted on January 3, 2012 by admin

Has anyone ever told you that you were “full of crap?” They may not have meant it this way, but if you are like most American’s they may have been more right than they knew!

In recent years Colon Cleansing has gained popularity with the health conscious, and there is quite the assortment of colon cleansers on the market today. It can be a confusing, even intimidating subject to broach as it is still a slightly taboo or foreign concept to many, colon health is vital to your overall well-being.

It has been noted that the average American has anywhere from 5 to 25 lbs of build up lingering inside of them, undigested food and toxins and even the possibility of parasites or intestinal worms. Not to say that everyone has this, but with the array of processed foods in the diet in this country is it really any wonder so many of us do?

Think of it this way – Would you drive your car endlessly on cheap unleaded gas and expect it to run at top performance without ever getting an oil change? Of course not! Yet we demand that very thing from our bodies.

The over all purpose of colon cleansing is to remove toxins from the colon but also from the fat, muscle, blood and internal organs that have accumulated naturally over the years. After all, wouldn’t you rather prevent disease than end up with a condition such as a blocked colon or colon cancer that you have to treat?

Keeping a well balanced diet that is high in fiber is one of the best things you can do to maintain your health, cleansing is also an important step. It has been long debated in the medical and holistic fields as to whether or not colon cleansing was necessary and if the answer was yes, was it indeed safe?

Dr. Michael F. Picco, M.D. of the Mayo Clinic is of the opinion that “Your digestive system and bowel eliminate naturally all waste materials and bacteria – the body does not need colon cleansing to do this.” While we agree in theory and that he is correct in that is how the body is supposed to work, the human system was not designed for the amount of processed sugar, corn syrup, soda, cigarettes, alcohol and chemicals we pour into it on a daily basis combined with the air pollutants we breathe in continually. It is because of these factors that we do recommend internal cleansing for most individuals.

*We do highly suggest that if you have any type of health condition please check with your doctor prior to beginning any cleanse.

How do you know if you need to cleanse? An under active bowel creates a disease friendly environment in the colon. The slow processing time allows toxins to penetrate through the colon walls and pass into the blood supply. This can cause a break down and weakening of the immune system. Even with one bowel movement a day you can still have at least 3 meals worth of putrefying matter breaking down in the colon polluting itself. This creates poisonous gasses, which can irritate the organs and joints. This toxic atmosphere manifests itself outwardly as diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, headache, poor skin, muscle and joint aches, weight gain and even depression or emotional changes.

Some of the benefits you may see when you do a colon cleanse include: weight loss, improved mental health and overall outlook, better digestion, proper nutrient absorption, better memory, reduced gas, reduction in allergic reactions and food sensitivity, clearer skin, improved ability to concentrate, and most of all – increased energy levels.

We know there are many choices on the market today for colon cleansing. Here at Health Centers for Better Living we blend our own recipe of proprietary ingredients that have been proven gentle yet effective.

HCBL’s Colon Health Products
Visit http://www.hcbl.com/product/Colocerin/ or http://www.hcbl.com/product/Colon-Helper/ to order today!

Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

HCBL

Reference Articles:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/colon-cleansing/AN00065

http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/148/1/4.1.abstract

http://allonhealth.com/dietary-fiber/maintain-a-clean-colon.htm

http://www.alternative-healthzine.com/html/0110_1.html

Posted in Beauty, Disease, Health Center for Better Living Products, Herbs, Home Remedies, Metabolism, Skin care, Tips of The Week, Weight Loss | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How to make your 2012 New Year’s resolution stick!

Posted on December 31, 2011 by admin

Its that time of the season again! New Years Eve brings celebration of renewed hope and optimism for the upcoming year. But where did the tradition of making New Years resolutions come from? And how do you make this years promises more effective than past years?

The first origins seem to be rooted in Babylonian times approximately 4000 years ago. As the New Year started with farming season they would resolve to return any borrowed farm equipment. The Romans too would set goals for levels of accomplishment in the coming year. The Chinese added in the tradition of fully cleaning their houses at this time of year, which has mutated in the western world to “spring cleaning”.

In modern times we love to set goals for ourselves during New Years, from weight loss to quitting smoking, vowing to save money, be on time, go to church, you name it. But how successful are we?

We all start out with the best of intentions. This will be the year we succeed! But for a lot of us, once the sparkle and excitement of New Year’s Eve is gone, so is our motivation. We slip right back into our old routine and patterns, only now we are paying for a gym membership we don’t even use. As humans this is our nature and a tough thing to overcome, but don’t loose hope – it can be done!

Choose a goal that is realistic. By setting fantastical goals that you don’t really believe you can reach, all you are doing is setting yourself up for failure and causing subconscious disappointment in yourself further hampering your ability to attain what you really want.

When you break an agreement with yourself, it is not any less damaging than it would be to a relationship with another person. Only it is between you and yourself – and that is the most important relationship of them all. So rather than promising yourself that you are going to work out every day and lose 100 lbs, start smaller. Agree that you are going to go and work out 3 days a week and make a sincere effort to live healthy. Once you begin to keep agreements with yourself, you will feel better. The exercise doesn’t hurt either!

It has been proven in various scientific studies that it takes 30 days to form a new habit, pattern or routine. If you can commit to 30 days, chances are you will achieve your goal! The reward is two fold. First you gain attainment of the object of your set desire, but you also feel amazingly good about yourself for having the stick-to-itiveness to do so.

So this year go for it! Choose what you want and make it happen. You are the master of your destiny and can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

Happy New Year from all of us here at HCBL.

Posted in Beauty, Emotional Well Being, Exercise, resolutions, Weight Loss | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Natural Relief for Depression and Anxiety

Posted on December 24, 2011 by admin

Everyone has their off days, but what if your off days turn into off weeks or off months? You no longer feel like yourself and are just down in the dumps on a consistent basis? Sometimes not even for any apparent reason. It’s frustrating and in some cases, debilitating.

If you listen to the television your only answer lies in expensive designer pharmaceuticals. Medications such as Xanex, Effexor, Serzone, Wellbutrin, Prozac, Zoloft or Celexa all have a host of possible side effects a mile long which include but are not limited to dizziness, headache, nausea, loss of sex drive, and possible insomnia, coma or suicidal thoughts.

This list isn’t cheering me up personally. How do you feel about it? If the base purpose is to make you feel better, how exactly does the possibility of ruining your sex life and causing you to contemplate suicide play into that equation?

Here at HCBL we firmly believe that nature gave us all we need to heal ourselves. That is why we suggest trying the natural approach first, and working with your body rather than against it. There are several supplements, vitamins and herbs that work organically to help improve mood and promote an overall feeling of wellness without all of the harsh side effects and latent toxicity.

Sam-E – is among the best of the mood boosting supplements available. Not an herb or a hormone, it is a molecule that all living cells produce constantly. It affects everything from fetal development to daily brain function. It assists in transfer of dopamine and serotonin in the brain from receptor to receptor. Though no one has found Sam-E to be significantly more effective than a prescription antidepressant, it is clearly less toxic and wonderful benefit can be derived from taking it on a consistent basis. Since the 1970’s, researchers have published 40 clinical studies involving roughly 1,400 patients. And though the studies are small by FDA standards, the findings are remarkably consistent. In 1994 Dr. Giorgio Bressa, a psychiatrist at the University Cattolica Sacro Cuore in Rome, pooled results from a dozen controlled trials and found that “the efficacy of SAM-E in treating depressive syndrome comparable to that of standard antidepressants.” It is interesting to note that SAM-E has been available as a dietary supplement in the US since 1999, but it has been used as a prescription drug in Italy since 1979, in Spain since 1985, and in Germany since 1989.

Another one that gets high rankings is DHEA – which is touted to enhance your immune system, as well as increase libido, increased sense of wellbeing, reduced stress levels, and give you energy making you feel happier, more focused and stronger. Many of the problems associated with aging, including weight gain, painful joints, and forgetfulness have been linked to a deficiency in DHEA, which is an essential hormone. No matter how healthy you are, your production of DHEA decreases dramatically as you age. By age 50, your levels may be only half of what they were at age 25 when you had peak levels of DHEA. In a recent study, men and women found they felt more youthful and had better ability to handle stress and improve quality of sleep by taking just 50mg of DHEA. It is a hormone that is naturally made by the human body. It can be made in the laboratory from chemicals found in wild yam and soy. However, the human body cannot make DHEA from these chemicals, so simply eating wild yam or soy will not increase DHEA levels. Don’t be misled by wild yam and soy products labeled as “natural DHEA.”

5-HTP – Has recently also been gaining in popularity as it becomes more widely known. It is a natural plant extract, from the Griffonia simplicifolia plant, that boosts the serotonin levels in the brain. It assists with appetite control, relieves insomnia, calms anxiety, improves mood and can even help to reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia. 5-Hydroxytryptophan should not be used in conjunction with any classification of medical antidepressants.

St. John’s Wort – This pretty plant cascading with yellow flowers has been used since the times of ancient Greece and is known for its mood brightening effects and ability to restore emotional balance. Scientists agree that this is an excellent choice for short-term treatment of mild to moderate depression well as anxiety and mood disorders. This herb, unlike many others does come with cautions, which it is important to pay attention to – it can cause sensitivity to sunlight, headache, or gastrointestinal symptoms in rare cases. It also should not be used in combination with – birth control pills, anti depressants, if you have had an organ transplant, are on heart medication, use HIV medications, cancer drugs, seizure control drugs, Warfarin or any other anticoagulants.

Another lesser known is Lavender. Used for centuries in aromatherapy for its ability to promote stress relief and relaxation, lavender may also help to alleviate stress, depression, fatigue, restlessness, anxiety and even insomnia. It has a very soothing sedative effect when inhaled; you can also drink it as a tea using two tablespoons of the dried herb in boiling water and allowing it to steep for 10 minutes. Make sure to strain before drinking.

All of these supplements are more gentle on your body and cost significantly less than their chemical counterparts. We hope next time you are feeling blue this article will come to mind and offer some great alternatives.

Visit http://www.hcbl.com/ to learn more today!

Sincerely,

HCBL

Posted in anxiety, depression, Emotional Well Being, Health Center for Better Living Products, Herbs, Home Remedies, Mental Health, Tips of The Week | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment