THE IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN D AND ENJOYING THE SUN, SAFELY...

By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor

(B.Appl Sci; Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing)

The sun is a vital energy source to all living beings. Without it we would perish. The sun allows plants to grow and animals to thrive, it provides warmth and offers incredible health benefits to us all. Winter is often a time for hibernation, where we do less exercise and enjoy less sunshine. Due to this fact it is no surprise to know that throughout the colder, darker months that people suffer from the ‘winter blues’ or seasonal depression. This may simply be due to the cold weather and wet days keeping you indoors, or from what science is now discovering might be due to low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is fat soluble vitamin as well as a hormone. It is involved in cell growth, neuromuscular function, immunity, inflammation and genetic encoding, calcium absorption, bone mineralisation and growth, and bone remodelling and repair. In saying this low levels of vitamin D (a catalyst for calcium absorption) can cause conditions such as metabolic bone disease (Ricketts & Osteomalacia that cause softening of bone and deformity such as bowing) and osteoporosis (brittle bones that are susceptible to fracture).

Bone health aside, low vitamin D levels are now also being linked to depression and mental health illness, cancers, inflammatory arthritis, secondary hyperparathyroidism, heart disease, type 1 and 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, muscle weakness syndromes, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Needless-to-say, vitamin D is important!

Very minimal amounts of vitamin D can be sourced from the diet, with majority of coming from the sun. You can obtain some vitamin D from; oily fish (salmon, mackerel and sardines), mushrooms, egg yolks and cod liver oil. If dietary vitamin D intake is inadequate or not possible and sun exposure is insufficient, then it is important to take a high quality practitioner strength vitamin D supplement (and drop form is best).

In Australia and New Zealand, Asthma is the most common chronic illness of childhood and is one of the leading causes of death in children up to six years of age. Interestingly, researchers are now proposing a link between the rise in asthma and allergies with the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. They blame the simple fact that children are spending more time indoors, in artificial light, playing their video games and watching hours of TV. The reality is that our children today are having less exposure to sunlight than is actually required for optimal health, which may very well prove to have detrimental effects on their health in the future.

Sun Safety

There is frequent debate about sun exposure and sun safety, and there is great confusion as a result. In Australia, skin cancer rates are high, with Queensland topping the statistics. In an effort to reduce skin cancer rates, the “Slip, Slop, Slap” campaign was introduced ("slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat"). Statistics show that since the introduction of this government initiative in 1982, skin cancer rates have decreased. However, an interesting point which adds further confusion to the ‘sun-debate’ is that most melanomas actually develop on non-sun exposed areas. This has led scientists to question the correlation between skin cancer and sun exposure, leading to a re-evaluation of what is ‘best practice’ for sun health.

Best practice is certainly not staying indoors all day, nor is it spending hours on end in the sun, burning to a crisp. There is no need to fear the sun, although it is necessary to be responsible in the sun, and realise that most things in excess often become damaging to our health. When it comes to the sun, try to avoid burning as this causes trauma and damage to the outer skin layer (epidermis), allowing for greater absorption of UV.

Skin Cancer, Sun Safety & Sunscreen

To safely enjoy the benefits of sunlight, health care practitioners are now recommending that people spend small amounts of time in the sun without sun protection. Due to Australia’s position on the map and the state of the ozone layer, it is recommended to avoid the Australian summer sun between 11am-3pm. Burning is imminent during this time as the UV index is high. Consider spending just 5min-15min in the sun, two times a week and ensure that you expose your skin.

The sun is constantly emitting radiation through ultraviolet rays (UVB and UVA) and as a result the ‘SunSmart’ initiative recommends that we use sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. 

It is important to be aware that conventional sunscreens contain physical blockers and chemical absorbers such as oxybenzone, benzophenone and or triethanolamine. These chemicals provide UV protection, yet at the same time may be harmful to your health. Interestingly, since the introduction of chemical based sunscreens, the United States of America, Canada, Australia and Scandinavia have showed a rise in malignant melanoma. Laboratory findings indicate that vitamin D metabolites actually suppress the growth of melanoma cells, suggesting the possibility that vitamin D deficiency may in fact have a role in the incidence of skin cancers. Nevertheless, in attempt to minimise burning perhaps switch to a natural sunscreen so that you protect your skin and your health. 

Look out for brands such as ‘Natural Instinct’, ‘UV naturals’, WotNot and ‘Soleo’. These sunscreens are zinc based, so they are thicker than the regular sunscreens you may be used to.

Science is constantly discovering new information, what was best practice and knowledge yesterday may in fact not be the case tomorrow. So today, to ensure that you are making the right or best decisions with sun safety and your health, remember that the sun exists for a reason. It is important to our health that we have regular sun exposure and that we protect our skin with sunscreens that are not a chemical cocktail. At the end of the day everyone loves a warm, sunny day and vitamin D is essential for health and well-being, so enjoy the sunshine and be responsible with the length of time you spend outside.

Enjoy your journey of health!

References:

1. Garin, SB & Diepgen, TL. (2002). Cutaneous malignant melanoma, sun exposure, and sunscreen use: epidemiological evidence. British Journ Dermatol. Vol 146 (61) Pg. 24-30.
2. Holick, MF (2004).Sunlight and vitamin D for bone health and prevention of autoimmune diseases, cancers, and cardiovascular disease. Amer Journ Clin Nutr. Vol 80. Pg. 1678– 1688.
3. Holick, MF. (2005). The Vitamin D Epidemic and its Health Consequences. Amer Journ Clin Nutr. Pg. 2739-2748.
4. Garla, CF­­­­­­­. (1992).Could Sunscreens Increase Melanoma Risk? Amer Journ Public Health. Vol 82 (4). Pg. 614-615.
5. Litonjua, AA. & Weiss, ST. (2007). Is vitamin D deficiency to blame for the asthma epidemic? Journ Aller Clin Immunol. Vol 120 (5). Pg. 1031-1035.
6. Asgari, MM. etal. (2009). A Cohort Study of Vitamin D Intake and Melanoma Risk. J Invest Dermatol. Vol 129 (7). Pg. 1675–1680.
7. Moan, J. etal. (2008). Addressing the health benefits and risks, involving vitamin D or skin cancer, of increased sun exposure. PNAS. Vol 105 (2). Pg. 668-673.

BABIES, CHILDREN & CHIROPRACTIC CARE....

By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor

(B.Appl Sci; Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing, Webster Cert)

Many people ask, "why should a child or infant see a Chiropractor?" The simple answer is, because of life! From the birth process, to learning to sit, crawl, walk and run, children experience a multitude of traumas, bumps, falls and ‘minor’ injuries. In the community minor injuries are viewed as incidences that are not life threatening and that don’t require further attention. However the human body can only take so much and will continue to compensate and adapt, until it can no longer… "So the twig is bent, the tree will grow", and then we develop symptoms.

The human body is an incredible machine that is able to adapt to its environment and compensate for comfort and function. This is where a chiropractor comes into the picture as they look at 'minor' slightly different to other health practitioners. In saying that, chiropractors examine and look beyond the surface or the symptoms. Chiropractors locate and correct spinal dysfunctions (commonly referred to as subluxations). Subluxations are minor misalignments/ dysfunction of vertebral joints that may cause interference to the nervous system and joint function. Simply, the nervous system is the master controller of the entire human body and subluxation may affect our ability to express full health potential when the spine is not properly performing its role to protect the intricate peripheral nerves and the delicate spinal cord. 

As for our beautiful bundles of joy, the birth process can involve harsh interventions that can cause musculoskeletal trauma. If left uncorrected babies may experience side effects such as unsettledness, sleep difficulty, aberrant neck movement/ torticollis, unexplained crying and breastfeeding trouble (side preference). Chiropractic care is not a miracle cure for all ailments, though with a focus on prevention, and with a gentle, holistic and natural approach may just help your baby, child or children through their growing years with less hurdles and struggle.

Newborns and Toddlers

Babies spend nine months developing in a warm, buoyant, fluid environment, where they spend their time swimming, somersaulting and relaxing. With birth intervention rates increasing each year, babies often go from this peaceful environment to an adrenalin dominant and stressed state. Forceps, vacuum suction, back/ supine birthing, epidural, induction, manual distraction and caesarean sections can all cause undue strain to the baby's vulnerable spine and nervous system, leading to poor neck strength and an aversion to 'tummy time' (which is an important neuro-musculoskeletal exercise). As our babies develop and learn to crawl and walk, they stumble, bump and fall regularly. This minor physical trauma can lead to all sorts of symptoms and poor function and development. Commonly their gait (walking pattern) can be incorrect with the sacrum and pelvis rotating, causing one foot to face in. These are good indicators for considering a chiropractic check-up. 

Colic/ Unsettled Baby Syndrome

Chiropractors often find that infantile colic can be associated with spinal function and nervous system dysfunction (specifically in the upper neck or cervical spine), which again can arise from the physical stresses endured during the birthing process.

Chiropractic is known for it fast results when it comes to something like colic, however if the problem is beyond spinal function chiropractic may not be the answer. Various studies over the past 20yrs have confirmed that chiropractic care can reduce crying time in babies with colic and is an effective treatment for babies with colic. Chiropractic is not a treatment for reflux.

Young Children & Adolescents

As our children grow, it is vital that we ensure that their body is adaptive, resilient and strong. Throughout life, the spine and nervous system is susceptible to insult from; falls, accidents, sports related injuries, poor posture, carrying heavy school bags and a sedentary lifestyle (which is becoming a BIG problem of the 21^st century!). Similar to new babies and toddlers, seeing a chiropractor regularly throughout childhood and adolescence may give your body a better opportunity to self-heal and regulate (as it is designed to do). Conditions which chiropractic may be effective in correcting in this age group are; headaches, back and neck pain and poor posture.

To correct spinal dysfunction there are a variety of adjusting techniques which chiropractors use that are always customised to each individual to suit the child’s size, weight and unique spinal issues. Chiropractic care for children is gentle and safe. During your child's initial chiropractic consultation, your chiropractor may recommend that your family use spinal supportive school bags, pillows, mattresses and chairs. For more information on these products please contact The Chiropractic Association of Australia (CAA) as they have a terrific range that they endorse or suggest. The CAA toll free number is: 1800 075 003.

In the world that we live in today we are facing an epidemic of obesity and lifestyle disease such as diabetes. In adopting a healthy lifestyle of prevention and maintenance it is integral that we educate ourselves and in turn educate and empower our children... We must teach our children how their body works, why they malfunction and what they can do today in order to ensure a better chance of great health in their future. Chiropractic care is just one part of your family’s and child's healthy lifestyle. For all of us to reach our full potential it is important that we have adequate sleep and rest each day, that we eat a wholesome and well balanced diet (including fish, nuts and healthy fats), that we drink plenty of filtered water each day and that we exercise regularly, outside. Our children are the world’s future leaders, teachers, doctors, dentists, environmentalists, builders, accountants and lawyers etc, so perhaps if we invest some time and effort to show them a healthier way, then just maybe, the world might have a healthier and brighter future.

References: 

1. Chapman-Smith, D. (1989). Infantile Colic – A Study from Denmark. The Chiropractic Report. Vol. 4.
2. Miller, J. (2007). Cry babies: A framework for chiropractic care. Clin Chirop. Vol 10 (3). Pg. 139-146.
3. Giesen, JM. (1989). An evaluation of chiropractic manipulation as a treatment of hyperactivity in children. Journ Manip Phys Therap. Vol 12 (5). Pg. 353-363.
4. Reed, WR. (1994). Chiropractic management of primary nocturnal enuresis. Journ Manip Phys Therap. Vol 17 (9). Pg. 596-600.
5. Graham, RL. (1997). An Impairment Rating Analysis Of Asthmatic Children Under Chiropractic Care. Journ Vert Sublux Res. Vol. 1 (4).
6. Pistoles, RA. (2001). Epilepsy and seizure disorders: A review of literature relative to chiropractic care of children. Journ Manip Phys Therap. Vol 24 (3). Pg. 199-205.

FIGHTING THE WINTER SNIFFLES, NATURALLY...

By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor

(B.Appl Sci; Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing)

The human body is remarkable and its immune system is its most complex feature. Our immune system is our body's defence. It fights off bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, glass objects, rust, toxins and dirt etc. In an event that the body is ‘invaded’ by these antigens (foreign bodies), an ‘attack’ or immune response takes place. This is a normal, health and natural response.

Each individual leads a somewhat different lifestyle and as a result not everyone’s immune system functions at the same standard. Where one person might ‘catch everything’ another will be unbelievably resilient. This in most cases is a clear reflection of the lifestyle choices they make.
Whether it is the common cold or different cancers, the immune system never stops fighting and clearing.

Most people will either sadly know someone who is fighting or fought cancer or lost their lives to this awful disease. Like with anything health and wellness related, being education and having a ‘holistic’ understanding allows us to step outside of the square and make healthier choices. What most people don’t know about cancer is that cancer cells in fact exist in everyone’s body, although cancer in the form of disease will only ever occur as a result of the immune system failing and allowing cancer cells to multiply. In saying this, in a normal functioning body, your immune system is killing cancer cells as we speak. How amazing!

Very simply, the immune system is physiologically made up of a complex arrangement of white bloods cells (WBCs), lymphatic tissue, bone marrow and organs such as the spleen and thymus, which work together to defend and protect the body. Leukocytes are specific WBCs that constantly circulate the bloodstream monitoring for the presence of ‘germs’ and foreign substances that may cause illness. 

In the 18^th and the early 19^th centuries infectious disease, poor hygiene and poor sanitation standards were the major threats to health. In the 21^st century, infectious disease is no longer such an issue, except due to the overuse of antibiotics we now have ‘super bugs’ that are resistant to antibiotic treatment. This poses a problem and has led to an epidemic of what is known as Iatrogenesis; adverse effects/ illness/ death caused by medical intervention. In addition, today we are faced by an epidemic of lifestyle diseases such as; cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity. These are a major problem in the western world and a mostly avoidable by leading a healthy lifestyle (with a healthy diet and an active lifestyle).

As for the ‘germ-theory’ or ‘herd-theory of disease, well it has been disproven time and time again… You won’t have to ‘catch everything going around’ if you look after yourself and keep your immunity boosted.

If you are prone to poor immunity during the winter months, there a few things you may like to include or introduce into in your lifestyle to help you avoid those winter sniffles, some answers you will even find in your pantry!

With our crazy, busy lives quite often all you need is rest and recuperation; however when it comes to avoiding a common cold, flu or sinus infection, nature can come to the rescue!

Minerals such as zinc, vitamins such as C, D and the B complex, Echinacea, garlic, olive leaf extract and honey are just some! Regardless of whether you are interested in living till 101, warding off viruses, avoiding cancer or merely maintaining good health, it is imperative to live a healthy lifestyle, by exercising regularly, reducing stress, eating a healthy and well balanced diet (including healthy fats and minimising sugar and packaged foods) and by having adequate sleep each night. These simple measures are not a full proof guarantee, although they should at least give your body a boost when it comes to your health, immunity and the cellular aging process.

IMMUNE BOOSTING SUPPLEMENTS

Olive Leaf Extract

Tracing back thousands of years, olive trees are everywhere you look in the Mediterranean. Interestingly, the rates of cardiovascular disease in countries such as Greece, Spain and Italy are impressively lower. Scientists now attribute this to the large quantities of ‘healthy fats’ that are consumed daily in these areas. Historically, the olive tree has been referred to as the "tree of life", as the leaves and fruit contain plant phenols that have healing and medicinal properties. In more recent years, olive leaf extract has become a popular multi use tonic. According to manufacturers, olive leaf extract has 400% more antioxidant power than vitamin C. Research has also suggested benefits in; enhancing immunity (due to antibacterial and antifungal action), in fever relief and in boosting cardiovascular health.

Echinacea

Echinacea is an indigenous North America plant, which produces a flower known for its medicinal properties. Echinacea is most commonly used in preventing common colds and flu. Various studies have shown that Echinacea preparations (liquid, tablets and capsules) shorten the duration and or decrease the severity of symptoms associated with common colds.

Your Naturopath is able to administer herbal preparations of high strength Echinacea and can combine it with immune boosting zinc, garlic and vitamin C. This combination together will either help your body to avoid colds in winter. Research suggests that Echinacea is only effective as prevention before symptoms appear.

Vitamin D

It is a well-known fact that colds and flu are more frequent in winter. The parallel to this is that vitamin D deficiency is also common in winter, and science is only more recently discovering that there is a connection!

Whether it is a tomato plant, a rose bush or a living being, the sun is important for our existence. This has become a contentious issue though due to emergence of skin cancer and campaigns focused on reducing skin cancer rates. When thinking about sun protection, sun exposure and boosting vitamin D levels consider spending just 10min-15min in the sun (with direct skin exposure and no protection), 2-3 times a week. In Australia, avoid this practice at times of high UV index, for example 11am-3pm.

If your lifestyle prohibits you from enjoying the glorious sun or it has been recommended to that you avoid the sun (for medical reasons), it is imperative that you take a daily vitamin D supplement. As a health practitioner, I recommend ‘practitioner only’ vitamin D drops as opposed to popular brands that are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies. Depending on your vitamin D levels (measured by blood test) you may need to take anywhere between 1-5+ drops per day.

Vitamin B complex

There are eight vitamins which make up the B-complex. These are all essential for metabolic processes that include: energy production, red blood cell synthesis/ formation, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, brain function and development, immune function and hormone activity. Of all the 8 B-vitamins, vitamin B6 and B12 are especially connected to immunity and infection susceptibility. If you are experiencing recurrent colds and infections, it is possible that you may have a vitamin B deficiency that should be explored by your health care provider. A simple blood test or hair-mineral analysis will give you this information.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient required for good health, as it is involved in cell growth and function. Deficiencies may cause growth retardation in children, immune deficiency, as well as problems relating to skin and mood. Some studies suggest that the use of zinc can have benefits in childhood diarrhoea, chronic hepatitis C, adult shingles, tuberculosis, pneumonia, respiratory tract infections and the common cold.

Vitamin C

Most people have either heard or know that vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) offers assistance to the immune system. Public perception is that oranges and citrus fruit are the best choice in obtaining vitamin C from food, where in actual fact kiwi fruit, capsicum, garlic, olive leaf extract, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and guava contain greater amounts of vitamin C per gram.

In the bloodstream, vitamin C acts to reduce oxidative stress by destroying free radicals, and as a result slowing the rate of cellular aging and damage. Over time, studies have shown that vitamin C may reduce inflammation and histamine (associated with allergies) as well as enhancing the cell mediated immune response.

Probiotics

Probiotics or ‘microflora’ aid the body by maintaining balance between the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. With the polluted environment we live in and with regular antibiotic therapy, ‘unhealthy’ or ’bad’ bacteria can proliferate in the gut. This bacteria overgrows and inhibits the function of the ‘healthy’ or ‘good’ bacteria that exists. This causes a disruption in the gut, often leading to gut dysfunction (dysbiosis), symptoms, reduced immunity, inflammation and disease.

To correct this scenario, health care practitioners recommend probiotic supplementation to thus prevent disease, maintain general health and in the treatment of conditions such as; eczema, psoriasis, immune compromise, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhoea and in coeliac or crohn’s disease. Good quality probiotics must be refrigerated to keep the bacteria alive. Stay clear of supermarket quality probiotic products and drinks as these often contain artificial sweeteners, sugar and colouring.

IMMUNE BOOSTERS IN THE PANTRY

Garlic

For thousands of years in communities around the world garlic has been used for its powerful medicinal properties. Apparently, in 3000 BC the Egyptian and Roman workman ate raw garlic as they believed it enhanced their physical endurance and strength. Garlic contains a powerful compound known as Allicin for which studies show have anti-microbial properties (antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic). In addition, Allicin has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic effects, as well as positive effects on cardiovascular health (reducing blood pressure and cholesterol).

Honey

Honey, propolis and royal jelly are special yields of the beehive. Since ancient times, honey has been an important part of traditional medicine, and in more recent times has been utilised in hospitals for wound healing with impressive results. The propolis and royal jelly portion of honey has been found to have anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, immuno-modulatory, hypotensive, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects. In a nut shell, the famous ‘sore throat’ home remedy of honey & lemon tea has credibility!

HELP FROM COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CARE

Chiropractic

For over 120 years in clinics around the world, Chiropractors have observed case-by-case that their patients seem to have greater immune resiliency, finding that they either avoid colds or that they resolve faster with symptoms being milder than previous times… This may be a strange phenomena or there may be scientific research supporting it. Non-the-less if we take care of all aspects of our body as a whole then we have a greater chance of great health overall.

Naturopathy

Both of these complimentary health modalities are age old. With holism, they both aim to boost the body’s ability to function optimally by correcting mineral and vitamin deficiencies or excesses. Treatment is often administered by the prescription of colloidal preparations, herbs, vitamin and mineral supplements. If compliance is strong, these health care measures are often quite effective. 

Whichever way you choose to manage your winter sniffles is up to you, conversely it is possible to avoid antibiotic therapy and recurrent illness and to boost your immune system or enhance your overall health. An abundance of health promoting antioxidants, minerals & vitamins exist in your pantry, fridge, at your local grocer or at your health care provider. Stock up on all of the goodness that nature and natural health care has to offer and good health to you and your family!

 

References:

1. Viuda-Martos, M etal. (2008). Functional Properties of Honey, Propolis, and Royal Jelly. Journ Food Sci. Vol 73(9). Pg. R117- R124.
2. Hirano, T. (2008). Roles of Zinc and Zinc Signalling in Immunity: Zinc as an Intracellular Signalling Molecule. Advan in Imunn. Vol 97. Pg. 149-176
3. Prasad, AS. (2009). Zinc: role in immunity, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Clin Nutrit & Metab Care. Vol 12(6). Pg 646-652.
4. Ronzio, RZ. (2001). Nutritional support for the immune system. The Amer Journ Natural Med.
5. Slosberg, M. (2001). Immune Responses to Spinal Manipulation. Dynamic Chiropractic.
6. Harris, JC etal. (2000). Antimicrobial properties of Allium sativum (garlic). Appl Microbio Biotech. Vol 57 (3). Pg. 282-286.
7. Rahman^, MS (2007). Allicin and Other Functional Active Components in Garlic: Health Benefits and Bioavailability. Internat Journ Food Prop. Vol 10(2). Pg. 245-268.
8. Brinkeborn RM etal. (1999). Echinaforce and other echinacea fresh plant preparations in the treatment of the common cold. A randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Phytomedicine. Vol 6 (1). Pg.1-6.
9. Al-Waili NS & Saloom KY. (1999). Effects of topical honey on post-operative wound infections due to gram positive and gram negative bacteria following caesarean sections and hysterectomies. Eur J Med Res. Vol 26 (3). Pg.126-30.
10. Sachin, SA. Etal. (2007). Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis. The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Vol 7 (7). Pg. 473-480.
11. Cannell, JJ. (2006). Epidemic influenza and vitamin D. Epidem and Infect. Vol 34. Pg. 1129-1140.

THE BENEFITS OF DIETARY FISH OIL...

By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor

(B.Appl Sci; Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing)

Health is an important value of most people and 'wellness' has become a buzz word in the health care industry. However, with the many weight loss and reality or lifestyle shows, obesity and heart disease continue to become a massive issue all around the world and Australia and America are leading the statistics. 

Consequently, there has been an emergence of 'fat-free', 'low-calorie', 'low-fat', 'periodic starvation', meal replacement, 'cabbage soup' and 'lemon detox' diets, which are not an ideal way to become healthier, nor are they an effective means to loss weight permanently as these types of diets tend to interfere with our body's biochemical balance (homeostasis)...

Unfortunately, most dieters and fad diets fail to recognise the importance of consuming healthy fats. Myth buster #1: Not all fats make you fat! Healthy fats do exist that in fact assist your body in functioning optimally and as a result maintaining a health weight for your height and constitution.  Please know that dietary fat is essential... Very simply, the human body is ruled by hormones and hormones are made up of fats and without fat in our diet, vital hormones won’t be produced and our body can begin to dysfunction. 
Yo yo dieting has lead to such conditions as; metabolic syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, mood disorders, weight fluctuation, sleep disruption, headaches, menstrual irregularity, diabetic syndromes, the list goes on. A simple way to support your endocrine (hormonal) system is to nourish your body with healthy fats found in fish, raw cacoa, chia seeds, avocado, nuts & seeds and coconut products, which all contain imperative fats for well-being. Remember, plant based fats are essential and healthy, and saturated animal fats are unhealthy and should only be consumed in moderation. Minimising butter, cream & cheeses and cutting the fat off your meat is a good start. Remember, everything in moderation and be sure to consume a well balanced diet with plenty of fresh produce, filtered water, lean meats, nuts and seeds and avoid over eating. Try having three small-medium sized meals a day and try not to get caught up in the idea that skipping meals will assist you, as it won't! Skipping meals will cause stress to the metabolic system and lead to binge eating and weight gain. 

In the past 10 years it has become popular to take a daily EPA/ DHA (omega-3 fatty acid/ fish oil) supplement. Some people take fish oils because they believe it is good for their joints and inflammation relating to arthritis, others because they notice benefits to their skin, memory, brain function and overall vitality. The fact is, many people eat a diet low in fish and seafood and research now suggests that signs of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency may include; fatigue, poor memory, poor immunity, dry skin, eczema, or hair loss, heart conditions, reproductive challenges, mood swings, depression, poor circulation. 

FISH OIL USE IN INFLAMMATORY CONDITIONS

Deep in the waters of the ocean certain types of fish exist that have very high levels of healthy omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial to our health. These fish include: Mackerel, Sardines, Salmon, Tuna and Anchovies. A substantial amount of research now proves that the omega-3 fatty acids have a positively impact on the immune system, can reduce the inflammatory reaction in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions (ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease, polymyalgia rheumatica, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis etc). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for instance is an autoimmune disease which causes an immune attack on the joints & synovial membranes in the body. Studies over the past 20 years have shown that RA may respond to alternative treatment which includes; dietary changes (avoiding sugar, wheat, 'night-shade' vegetables and reducing red meat) and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. Some Rheumatologist doctors recommend doses as high as 6g a day to reduce inflammation associated with a RA, by reducing the release of leukotriene B₄ & interleukin 1 (inflammatory mediators). It is important to note that omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil supplements are comparatively far safer than most pharmacological interventions (such as cortisone) used in treating inflammatory conditions, and thus are used as a safe, supportive adjunct to medical treatment. It is important to be aware, if you are on warfarin (a blood thinning medication), fish oils are NOT safe to be taken in combination with this drug.

FISH OIL USE DURING PREGNANCY & INFANT BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Pregnancy (and breastfeeding) is an incredible time of growth and change for both the mother and baby, therefore it is important to that women have adequate EPA/DHA to aid the brain, nervous system and eyes in their development. DHA is especially important, as it is a constituent of the phospholipid membrane of these neural structures and until development is complete must come from the diet (eaten/ supplemented). In saying this, you may regularly eat fatty fish such as salmon and trout 2-3 times a week (however purity is often a problem), and as a result practitioner only nutritional companies have made high quality fish oil supplements for your benefit. Supplements may also be helpful for people who dislike fish or for those women with severe morning sickness, who can not stomach the idea of fish due to the pungent smell and taste associated.

In terms of scientific research, there is no shortage of studies proposing the benefits of EPA/ DHA omega fatty acids, especially in regards to brain development and cardiac heath. In relation to pregnancy and infant heath, it has been suggested that inadequate consumption of DHA during pregnancy may be linked to shortened gestation, prematurity and postnatal depression (PND). Research has also connected increased brain function and intelligence to babies fed human milk (in comparison to formula-fed babies), due to having a higher concentration of DHA in the brain. Maternal intake of EPA/ DHA during pregnancy has also been found to have an effect on reducing infant allergy (although further study on this topic is necessary for a more conclusive understanding).

Perhaps, with this information and research about healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids we can now understand that dieting with low fat products may be less beneficial than once thought. Always remember, we require healthy fats for optimal health, especially during pregnancy.

FISH OILS USE & HEART HEALTH

For many years scientists have been studying the benefit of daily fish oil supplementation on heart health. Biomedical science tells us that dietary saturated fat and cholesterol are the basis for coronary heart disease, and that omega-3 fatty acids from fish are in fact protective to the heart. Interestingly, the constituents of these fatty acids and how they may assist in heart disease protection and treatment became apparent when Eskimos health was investigated. This population consume massive amounts of fish in their diets (including seals, whales and salmon) and yet continue to have impressively low rates of heart disease. What we now know through nutritional research, is that the fat the Eskimos ingest on a daily basis contains large quantities of very-long-chain fatty acids (EPA/DHA). In the West, most people are unaware that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia and America and consequently preventative health measures (including exercise, healthy diet, smoking cessation, fish oil supplementation and weight reduction) are recommended and encouraged so that you may avoid becoming a statistic.

Much of the documented research that exists provides evidence that EPA/ DHA supplementation has an enormous advantage on heart health. This is especially so in; decreasing the risk of stroke (by reducing blood viscosity/ thickness), in lowering plasma cholesterol, by suppressing inflammation, in preventing cardiac remodelling/ dysfunction, in reducing atherosclerosis and by preventing heart attacks.

Results from research are impressive with more and more areas being studied each year (including skin conditions such as: psoriasis and eczema, later life brain function: including Alzhiemer’s and Parkinson’s and current brain function: including memory and concentration). The exciting aspect of all of this information is that nature again proves to have the answers to a health problem our nation is currently facing.  In addition, it is simple and easy to apply this precautionary health measure, as high quality fish oil supplements are readily available through your health care practitioner, once a thorough assessment and examination are conducted. 

You get what you pay for, It is important to purchase a high quality/practitioner only product such as Innate Choice Omega Sufficiency or Metagenics.. As these both have the optimum amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and EPA/DHA for your health!
Good luck and enjoy your health journey.

References:

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