Are You Buying Stevia or Something Else?

Stevia is a zero calorie sweetener that comes from a herbaceous plant, Stevia rebaudiana, a relative of the sunflower that is native to South America. It has been used as a sweetener and a medicine by the Guaraní people of Brazil and Paraguay for more than 1,500 years.

First, we heard this natural sweetener that is from 200 times to 400 times sweeter than sugar, has no calories, and doesn’t raise glucose levels in the blood. Next, we heard possible health benefits, especially for diabetics. It may even be a wonderful antioxidant that lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, and helps fight cancer. But is the stevia you are buying at the grocery store the same sweetener with these health benefits?

Stevia leaves can be dehydrated and crushed to make a whole food sweetener with definite health benefits including an array of antioxidants. But, as is often the case, this healthy food is probably not what you are buying. Stevia’s sweetness comes from glycosides contained in the leaves. The two primary glycosides are stevioside and rebaudioside (though there are as many as seven). Stevioside has an aftertaste some experience as bitter while others say it tastes like licorice. Rebaudioside is sweeter without an aftertaste. When you buy stevia, you may be buying stevia extract that is just rebaudioside. And stevia may not be the only ingredient. Take Truvia for example.

Truvia’s lists 3 ingredients on their label: erythritol, stevia leaf extract, and natural flavors. Erythritol is a sugar alcohol, a calorie-free sugar substitute made from sugar that has been known to cause headaches, diarrhea, and stomach upset when large amounts are ingested. For some people, a regular size portion will cause this reaction. The third ingredient is natural flavors. That could be anything, even aspartame or MSG.

Dr. Axe writes, “According to the United States patent for the Coca-Cola Company, Truvia goes through a 42 step process to make this processed sweetener. First, the rebaudioside is extracted from the stevia leaf then, chemical solvents are added including acetonitrile which is toxic to the liver and is a carcinogen. They then add in a GMO corn derivative in erythritol.”

And yet, when most people buy Truvia, they believe they are buying stevia.

Teas, extracts, and tinctures made with high-quality, whole-leaf stevia, on the other hand, contain up to seven sweet compounds (glycosides) and an array of antioxidants.

Quality Stevia

Green leaf stevia, made by crushing dried stevia leaves into powder, is the least processed. It is 30-40 times sweeter than sugar (rather than 200-400 times) and is a little bitter by comparison to the processed varieties. Dr. Axe recommends the brands Sweet Leaf Stevia and Organic Traditions.

If you want to ensure you are getting the best possible stevia, grow your own! See the link below to Mother Earth News and a great article on growing stevia. They even tell you how to make extract, which is very simple. Just add ½ cup of lightly crushed leaves to 1 cup of almost boiling water and steep it for 40 minutes. Strain and refrigerate. What could be easier?

Recommended Reading:
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Nutritional Support For Adrenal Health

Our two adrenal glands are on top of the kidneys, hence, the terms “adrenal,” as in “added” to the renal glands

The adrenal glands are composed of two entirely separate sections, the cortex and the medulla. Like the pituitary gland, the two sections of the adrenals evolved from two entirely different types of tissue.

This is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones I believe that it’s easier to heal the body when you understand how the body works, but understanding the endocrine system is big a task.  It’s a long article, but I think it’s worth it and I hope you’ll check it out.

Adrenal Medulla

The adrenal medulla evolved from the nervous system. The adrenal medulla works with the autonomic nervous system (the unconscious processes like breathing and digestion). The inner adrenal medulla has a direct connection to the brain.

Adrenal Medulla Hormones

The adrenal glands produce adrenaline (80%) and noradrenaline (20%), more commonly known among the medical establishment as epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones together are known as catecholamines.

The medullary hormones are not essential for life, but life without them would be difficult. Without stress, these hormones wouldn’t be necessary, but there are varying degrees of stress. The adrenal medulla hormones compensate when we stress our bodies with a simple act like standing up from a reclining or sitting position. Without these hormones, your blood pressure would drop when you stand because gravity causes your blood to pool at the feet and legs.

Adrenaline

Epinephrine, more commonly called adrenaline, can increase heart rate, contract blood vessels, dilate air passages, and get the nervous system ready for a fight or flight response. Epinephrine acts on almost every part of the body.

Noradrenaline

Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, works with epinephrine and adds its own stimulus to the brain. Like adrenaline, noradrenaline responds to the fight-or-flight stimulus. Noradrenaline increases our heart rate, triggering the release of glucose from the body’s energy stores, and increasing blood flow to our muscles. Noradrenaline also affects the parts of the brain where attention and response actions are carried out. Noradrenaline is also an anti-inflammatory agent for the brain.

Adrenal Medulla Disorders

When the medulla is in trouble, so is the nervous system. Pathology of the adrenal medulla is primarily caused by neoplasm (tumors) or otherwise poor nervous system functionality, but there are many other issues that can cause too much or not enough of the two hormones. The nervous system will compensate for a lack of adrenal hormones for some time, but healing the thyroid, healing the entire adrenal gland, and if need be, healing the endocrine system as a whole, is the only way to ensure returned health to the adrenal medulla.

Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal cortex is divided into three zones and produces three main types of steroid hormones.

In medical school, one way we learned to remember these three layers is: ‘Salt, sugar, sex… the deeper it goes, the sweeter it gets.’ Not important, but catchy.” – Precision Nutrition

Zona Glomerulosa & Mineralocorticoids

Mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone, which makes up about 96% of the hormones in this mineralocorticoid group) produced in the zona glomerulosa help regulate blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Aldosterone controls water and electrolyte (sodium and potassium) concentration.

The mineralocorticoids act upon the kidneys, which under the direction of these hormones excrete sodium or potassium as required to maintain optimal balance. Adrenal adenomas (benign, actively secreting growths in the cortex) cause hyper-production of aldosterone, which may account for as much as 25% of patients with high blood pressure.

Zona Fasciculata & Glucocorticoids

Cortisol (also called hydrocortisone) makes up 95% of the glucocorticoids hormones produced, but there’s also corticosterone and cortisone.

What does cortisol do:
  • Depresses the immune system.
  • Anti-inflammatory by reducing immune system response.
  • Retards allergic overreactions, but this may slow wound healing.
  • Promotes the breakdown of protein (catabolism).
  • Promotes the conversion of triglycerides to stored fatty acids.
  • Promotes glucose formation (gluconeogenesis).
  • Promotes resistance to stress which results in higher blood pressure.

Two well-known diseases of the adrenals are Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome. Addison’s disease results from acute adrenocortical insufficiency. Cushing’s syndrome is caused by excessive adrenal cortical function.

John F. Kennedy may be history’s most famous Addison’s disease patient and required regular cortisone injections to deal with stress. Since one of the side effects of cortisol injections is a “tanning” of the skin, JFK looked his best (tanned and relaxed) during times of stress — immediately after injections.” – John Barron

Full blown Addison’s disease is rare, but adrenal fatigue is extremely common. Cushing’s syndrome is rare, too.

Zona Reticularis & Androgens

Testosterone is the most well-known androgen. Androgens are masculinizing hormones. In adult males, not many of these hormones are produced in the adrenal gland. Men produce most of their androgens in the testes while women produce their androgens in the adrenal glands.

Adrenal Fatigue

Many health care professionals estimate that 80% or more American adults suffer from some level of adrenal fatigue. With our addiction to caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants and our tendency to bathe in Wi-Fi and cellular radiation, it seems likely.

Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue Include

  • body aches
  • trouble concentrating
  • racing thoughts
  • moodiness and irritability
  • always feeling tired
  • feeling overwhelmed
  • hormone imbalance
  • cravings for sweet and salty foods

Nutrients that Boost Adrenal Response

How to Heal Adrenal Glands

Supplement with vitamin D3, a B complex that’s got extra B5, a fatty acid supplement with DHA and EPA, a good multivitamin powder, and a liquid mineral formula.

Get the diet right. No stimulants like coffee, caffeinated teas, energy drinks, tobacco, etc. In fact, no drugs period. Eat more fresh raw vegetables than anything else, and eliminate refined and processed foods like white rice, HFCS, and even that bag of organic, super healthy, ancient grain, non-GMO quinoa chips. If you didn’t make it, don’t eat it.

Make sure the body is working right in other areas that affect adrenals. The endocrine system as a whole, and especially the thyroid, kidneys, and hypothalamus, must be in decent working order to heal the adrenals all the way. If necessary, kill Candida and balance the gut. (it’s likely very necessary if you have adrenal fatigue with our toxic, sugar-laden, antibacterial crazed society, which is often the underlining cause of endocrine disorders).

Start grounding regularly, at least 15 minutes a day (more is better). Do some sun gazing while you’re at it (but do not look directly at the sun). Get out in nature a little every day or as often as possible (again, more is better). Avoid or compensate for Wi-Fi, cellular, and other EMFs (salt lamps help, grounding probably does, too). Learn to breathe properly by breathing in deeply in a manner that causes your stomach to expand when you breathe in.

If your symptoms don’t improve quickly, glandular supplementation can help (if you’re not vegan) and a few adaptation herbs can help as well.

Conclusion

Diet is, as always, paramount. A slightly alkaline diet full of fresh produce detoxifies the endocrine system and keeps it healthy. Stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, and most any drug use need to be eliminated  for healthy adrenal function. Check out Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included for more on diet. And again, this is only an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones. It’s worth the read for anyone wanting to get well.

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About Your Thyroid – Nutrition, Supplements, and More

The thyroid gland is located in the lower front part of the neck. Thyroid hormones are best known for regulating the body’s metabolism, which is your body’s ability to break down food and convert it to energy. It also plays a role in breathing, heart rate, central and peripheral nervous systems, muscle tone, muscle control, menstrual cycles, body temperature, cholesterol levels, bone growth, body growth rate, nervous system development, brain, reproductive functions, and more.

Thyroid hormone receptor sites are found in every cell of the body. Every single cell of our body depends on thyroid hormones. If your thyroid doesn’t operate optimally, neither will the rest of your body.

This is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones I believe that it’s easier to heal the body when you understand how the body works, but understanding the endocrine system is big a task.  It’s a long article, but I think it’s worth it and I hope you’ll check it out.

Three Thyroid Hormones

Thyroglobulin is a protein (not a hormone) that’s produced by the thyroid, synthesized from amino acids and an iodide, and stored in the follicular lumen as colloid. This protein is used only within the thyroid gland for production of thyroid hormones. T3 and T4 are the two most well-known hormones the thyroid produces, and there’s also calcitonin.

Triiodothyronine or T3

T3 affects almost every physiological process in the body. The thyroid produces about 20% of the T3 in our body. The rest is converted to T3 from T4 in our cells throughout the body.

Thyroxin or T4

T4 (AKA tetraiodothyronine) is a prohormone (a committed precursor of a hormone, usually having minimal hormonal effect by itself) that the body converts to T3, a much more active and viable hormone. T4 is synthesized from residues of the amino acid tyrosine. A normal thyroid gland produces about 80% of the body’sT4 and about 20%of the body’s T3.

Calcitonin

Calcitonin lowers blood calcium and phosphorus levels by decreasing the rate of re-absorption of these minerals to bone.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid makes too much T3 or T4 (or both). This leads to elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, hand tremors, and many other symptoms. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Graves’ disease causes antibodies to stimulate the thyroid to produce and secrete too much.

Other causes of hyperthyroidism can include:

  • Excess iodine
  • Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid gland (causes T4 and T3 to leak out of the gland)
  • Benign tumors of the thyroid or pituitary gland (causes pressure, hormones leak out)
  • Large amounts of tetraiodothyronine taken through dietary supplements or medication
  • A tumor of the ovaries or testes

Hyperthyroidism can’t last forever; it’s sure to wear out a thyroid eventually, leading to hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism

Around 20 million Americans and about 250 million people worldwide have low thyroid function. Up to 90% of all thyroid problems are autoimmune in nature. Hashimoto’s is the most common thyroid disorder. In people with Hashimoto’s, the immune system attacks the thyroid.

List Of Hypothyroidism Symptoms

  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Asthma
  • Angina pectoris
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Bursitis
  • Conditions related to the cardiovascular system
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Carotenodermia (slight orange tinge to the skin, usually on the palms of the hands and soles of feet)
  • Cold extremities, intolerance to the cold
  • Coarse, dry, or thinning hair
  • Constipation
  • Decreased libido
  • Dry, rough, and/or itchy skin
  • Edema
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Fallen arches
  • Fatigue
  • Fibrocystic breast changes
  • Fibromyalgia symptoms
  • Headaches
  • Hoarseness
  • Infertility
  • Hypercholesterolemia
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia
  • Hypertension
  • Itchy and/or flaky scalp
  • Memory loss
  • Mood swings, irritability
  • Muscle aches
  • Menstrual irregularities (amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, menorrhagia)
  • Neck pain, stiffness, aches (especially in the back of the neck)
  • Knee pain (due to fallen arches)
  • Pallor (an unhealthy pale appearance)
  • Pain in the trapezoid and/or neck area
  • Psoriasis
  • Poor mental concentration
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Postpartum depression
  • Premenstrual syndrome
  • Reactive hypoglycemia
  • Recurrent infections
  • Sluggishness, tiredness
  • Shoulder pain
  • Tinnitus
  • Urticaria
  • Vasomotor rhinitis
  • Vertigo
  • Weakness
  • Weight gain

How to Heal the Thyroid

Learning about the endocrine system is one the best ways to understand how incredibly connected each and every part of the body is and how imperative a holistic approach to healing is to repair the body. You can’t really heal the thyroid gland without taking care of the adrenals, the pituitary – the whole endocrine system.

Fresh, raw, organic produce heals. Produce heals everything. Other than that, foods high in iodine and foods that are high in selenium are known to aid in thyroid function.

The thyroid gland requires iodine to function. Iodine taken by itself or ingested through fortified salt can be problematic. Good food sources include the usual: meat, seafood, yogurt, milk, and eggs, but there are vegan sources as well:

  • Blackstrap molasses
  • Seaweed
  • Himalayan sea salt
  • Navy beans
  • Cranberries

Selenium is required for the body to convert T3 into T4. Without enough selenium in the diet, the thyroid suffers. Seafood and meat are high in selenium, but there are also some vegan choices:

Vegan Food Sources of Selenium

  • Brazil nuts
  • Shiitake/white button mushrooms
  • Lima/pinto beans
  • Chia seeds
  • Brown rice
  • Seeds (sunflower, sesame, and flax)
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Spinach

Supplements For Hypothyroidism

A number of vitamins and minerals are critical to thyroid health, and many herbs can help boost thyroid function as well.

B Vitamins

Vitamin B12 is found in every cell of the body. It is required for cellular metabolism and energy production, so obviously, without B12, the thyroid can’t function optimally. B12 deficiencies are very common with hypothyroidism. A lack of B12 can cause and worsen hypothyroidism. Even though most people actually consume enough vitamin B12 in their diets, a deficiency occurs in many due to an inability to absorb the nutrient in the blood. This goes back to gut health. The body cannot absorb and assimilate nutrients properly with a poorly functioning digestive system.

In addition, a poorly functioning liver radically inhibits the body’s ability to utilize B12. Unless a knowledgeable naturopath recommends it for a limited amount of time, do not take vitamin B12, or any one B vitamin, without the entire B complex.

Vitamin D

Over a billion people worldwide do not get enough vitamin D. A recent study showed that vitamin D levels were significantly lower in people suffering from hypothyroidism than the general population. While vitamin D deficiencies and hypothyroidism do tend to take place together, a lack of vitamin D and pretty much every other disease (including cancer) coincide as well. It’s unlikely anyone’s hypothyroidism is primarily caused by a lack of vitamin D, but it’s a certainty that the body will not fully heal without enough vitamin D.

Vitamin A

We all know vitamin A is required for good vision. We also need vitamin A for the immune system, hormone synthesis, and the production of T3. Without enough vitamin A, thyroid hormone levels quickly drop.

Bromelain

Bromelain is the enzyme that makes pineapple the superfood that it is. Bromelain helps reduce inflammation.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has many benefits, including the ability to significantly improve liver function, and it can help stabilize cortisol levels. This helps stimulate T3 and T4 hormone synthesis.

Licorice Root

Licorice root can benefit the thyroid and adrenal glands for people who have low cortisol (adrenal fatigue).

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi mushroom is a good source of selenium, and it has a ton of other benefits including boosting the immune system.

Schisandra Chinensis

This is another adaptogenic herb that helps the thyroid and has many other health benefits.

Ginseng

There are many varieties of ginseng, all with their different strengths, but Siberian ginseng root, Brazilian ginseng root, Korean or Asian ginseng, American ginseng, and Chinese ginseng all benefit the endocrine system, and therefore the thyroid.

Selenium

Selenium is the major cofactor for the key thyroid enzyme 5’deiodinase. This enzyme converts T4 into T3 and can help normalize the thyroid hormone balance.

Zinc

A zinc deficiency has been shown to inhibit T3 production. Zinc also contributes to immune modulation, which may reduce thyroid antibody levels. Additionally, like selenium, zinc contributes to 5’deiodinase activity.

Iodine

A lack of iodine inhibits the body’s natural detoxification, leads to cancer cell growth, and causes hypothyroidism. The thyroid absorbs iodine and, in doing so, replaces other toxins it has accumulated.

It’s also important to avoid excessive iodine intake for anyone with Hashimoto’s or hyperthyroidism. As stated above, we highly recommend that any iodine consumed come from whole food sources unless otherwise recommended by a knowledgeable, competent professional.

Gluten, Hashimoto’s Disease, and Leaky Gut

When the thyroid is not functioning properly, there is a good chance the gut is hyper-permeable, or “leaky.” Many suspect leaky gut to be the main cause of Hashimoto’s. In this state where the gut is too permeable, undigested food proteins leak into the bloodstream. Human tissues have proteins and antigens very similar to those in foods, bacteria, parasites, and Candida. When the body senses these foreign molecules, it develops antibodies that attack the body, hence the name “autoimmune disease.” Gluten proteins are very similar to Candida proteins and proteins that make up the thyroid. This is probably why the immune response to gluten can last up to 6 months each time you eat it.

When healing the thyroid (or the body in any way), regardless of whether or not it’s due to Hashimoto’s, modern wheat is a bad idea for a multitude of reasons.

Check out this Leaky Gut article for more information.

Calcium regulationParathyroid

There are four parathyroid glands; they’re located two on each side of the thyroid. Although the parathyroids are attached to the thyroid gland anatomically, and the glands are connected to the thyroid, they have no related function. The parathyroid release parathormone, or PTH, or parathyroid hormone. PTH has the opposite job of calcitonin (the lessor known thyroid hormone); PTH increases levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. It accomplishes this by increasing the cells of the bone (osteoclasts), which reabsorb calcium. It also increases urinary re-absorption of calcium by the kidneys. In addition, it causes the kidneys to form calcitriol, a hormone made from vitamin D that increases absorption of calcium from the GI tract.

Parathyroid Adenoma

Hyperparathyroidism refers to increased PTH production, usually because of a benign tumor of one or more of the parathyroid glands (parathyroid adenoma). When PTH is excessively produced, calcium is reabsorbed back into the blood from the kidneys, bones, and stomach. This leads to a condition sometimes called “stones, bones, groans, and moans,” which refers to the classic set of hyperparathyroidism symptoms: kidney stones, osteoporosis, groans of pain due to intestinal distress, and moans due to psychosis.

Removing a parathyroid adenoma, a fairly simple, typically successful surgery, can cause an immediate return to healthy function.

Natural remedies for hyperparathyroidism generally include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vitamin C, desiccated glandsg, and vitamin D supplementation (extreme caution should be taken with large dosages of vitamin D when blood calcium levels are high). A holistic approach for tumors on the parathyroid will take time, but fortunately, hyperparathyroidism has a very slow progression.

Conclusion

Diet is, as always, paramount. A slightly alkaline diet full of fresh produce detoxifies the endocrine system and keeps it healthy. Check out Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included. And again, this is only an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones. It’s worth the read for anyone wanting to get well.

Related Reading:


Whey Protein For a Healthy, Strong Body – What You Need to Know

Most people associate whey protein with bodybuilders. You know, the kind we picture hanging around the gym pumping iron, making the rest of us feel bad with our spindly legs and flabby thighs, while their ripped muscles bulge provocatively out of tightly fitting shirts… Stay with me.

For too long this powerhouse dietary supplement has been monopolized by the bodybuilding domain. Whey protein has many other uses and benefits besides stimulating muscle growth. It’s time its benefits were made known to those of us who want to eat and live a healthy lifestyle  but aren’t training for a triathlon.

What is Whey Protein?

What exactly is whey protein and where does it come from? As an advocate for organic living, you’ll be used to checking all the ingredients of every product before putting them into your body. And you may be surprised to learn that whey protein is actually derived from cheese (partially anyway). Yes, that yummy fattening dairy product that the French do so well can actually be beneficial to your health in other ways.

Here’s Exactly What You’ll Find in Whey Protein

Whey protein is found in the watery portion of milk that separates from the curds when making cheese (or yogurt). This used to be discarded as waste, however, whey protein has since been discovered to be a complete protein source (like meat and eggs). Complete proteins are more readily available to build and regenerate bones, muscles, tissues, glands, vital organs, etc.

More often than not, it’s whey is available in dried powder form, and there are three main types found on the market:

  1. Whey Protein Concentrate
  2. Whey Protein Isolate
  3. Whey Protein Hydrolysate

Whey Protein Concentrate contains the lowest amount of protein of the three and, as such, is usually the least expensive. The percentage of protein is between 55-89%. The rest is made up of fat, lactose, immunoglobulins, and other immune-enhancing peptides, such as alpha-lactalbumin.

If you’re looking for a general protein supplement that will enhance healthy living without costing a fortune, whey protein concentrate is a good option. Look for a product that contains at least 80% protein.

Whey protein isolate usually contains up to 95% protein, with minimal lactose and fat, making this particularly suitable for people who are lactose intolerant and those who are looking for quick results such as increased muscle mass, as it is absorbed faster than concentrate. There are those with certain health issues who cannot digest other proteins well and need whey protein isolates. But, there’s concern amongst natural health practitioners who are familiar with whey proteins. Protein isolates are acidic, and the heavily processed, “denatured” amino acids may be damaged in ways that may damage the body when consumed. Isolate whey proteins are also more expensive than concentrates.

And as you may have guessed, whey protein hydrolysate contains even more protein than the other two, at almost 99%. This is the worst tasting and most expensive of the three, and there is a greater concern for adverse health effects with this kind of whey.

Why Should I Take Whey Protein?

If bodybuilders can’t get enough of this stuff, then it must be doing something for them right? While it’s true that whey protein is usually marketed to bodybuilders and athletes whose end goal is to put on bulk, whey protein, when taken in the correct dosage, has many other health benefits as well. Check them out:

  • Stave off Hunger – Ingesting a whey protein shake, or a sprinkle of powder on your cereal can help keep hunger pains at bay, as it effectively reduces your levels of ghrelin, the hormone that tells your brain when you’re hungry.
  • Prevent Illnesses – Adding whey protein to your diet can help prevent certain illnesses, such as common forms of cancer, including prostate and colon cancers.
  • Boost Your Immune System – Whey protein can improve your immune system and help you stay healthy throughout the winter.
  • Combat Stress – If your nerves are on edge after a long day at work, use whey protein to improve your mood, as it lifts serotonin levels (the happy hormone) in your brain. So instead of opening a bottle of wine, try making a protein shake instead.
  • Lose Weight – On account of its ability to suppress the appetite naturally, whey protein can be helpful if you’re looking to lose weight. Make sure you discuss the right dosage with your nutritionist.
  • Improving Athletic Performance – If you are training for any kind of event, or simply working out and want to give your performance a natural boost, whey protein can help.
  • Build Muscles – Yes. Whey protein accompanied by an intensive strength training program can help you add bulk.
  • Replacement for Lactose Intolerance – Whey protein is used for replacing milk-based infant formulas for babies that are lactose intolerant.
  • Improving HIV Patient Care – Some studies link whey protein towards increasing glutathione (GSH) and boosting the immune system of people who are HIV positive. However, further evidence is needed to support this claim.
  • Protein Allergies – Whey protein can be used for people with protein allergies to ensure that their bodies still receive all the nutrition needed from this vital macronutrient.

So What if I Don’t Want Bigger Muscles?

The most well-known benefit of whey protein is to build stronger, healthier muscles, but that doesn’t have to mean more bulk. Bodybuilders aren’t bulked up like that just because they take whey protein (and not all of them do); their muscles are exceedingly large first and foremost because they lift a lot of weights. So if your goal is a healthier body, or to combat stress, then taking it in the concentrated form is probably the best idea for you.

How to Use Whey Protein

How you should use whey protein depends largely on your goals. For use in training purposes, it is usually recommended to take about 10-20 grams of whey protein mixed in a shake or juice, to help enhance strength and increase endurance. A further 20-40 grams of whey protein after your workout is recommended to boost muscle protein synthesis. For further suggestions of how to take whey protein, check the sources below.

Conclusion

While traditionally linked to being a bodybuilding supplement, this complete protein can be very advantageous to your health, especially if you suffer from lactose intolerance or protein allergies, you are trying to keep strong and healthy muscles, or you are looking to lose weight. If you decide to use whey protein in conjunction with a weight training program, in most cases we recommend a high-quality whey protein concentrate sourced from healthy animals with a high concentration of protein. To find the best protein for you  consult with a natural health care practitioner that understands sports nutrition, or a personal trainer who understands natural health and nutrition.

Related Products:
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12 Signs You May Have a Thyroid Problem : Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck is often not given importance as it should be given. This butterfly shaped gland is largely responsible for a wide range of body activities. The thyroid gland releases hormones and regulates many aspects of your health from breathing, heart rate, central and peripheral nervous systems, body weight, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, body temperature, cholesterol levels, and much more.

And if you are a woman over 35, your odds of having a thyroid disorder are high – more than 30% according to estimates. According to the American Thyroid Association (ATA), an estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease. Women are 5 to 8 times more likely to have a thyroid problem than men, and 1 woman in 8 will likely develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime.

So the question that arises here is why are so many affected by thyroid disease?

Experts have a number of theories regarding this but no hard answers.

According to experts, the major factors that influence the rise in thyroid cases are:

  • The chemical toxins in the environment are linked to an increased risk of thyroid disease. Major culprits include perchlorate, pesticides, phthalates like bisphenol-A (BPA), and thyroid-disrupting endocrine disruptors, also known as environmental estrogens.
  • Radiation and nuclear exposure is another contributing factor that can trigger thyroid disorder. The radiation exposure that resulted from the Chernobyl disaster was a major trigger for thyroid disease, according to experts and similar effects can be seen down the road after Fukushima’s disaster.
  • Medical treatments that involve radiation to the head or neck area are also known to increase risk.
  • Certain bacteria and viruses, the food-borne bacteria Yersinia enterocolitica for example, are known to trigger autoimmune disease and inflammatory thyroid conditions.
  • Then there are other controllable factors like cigarette smoking, gluten allergies, gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, overconsumption of supplemental iodine, and overconsumption of soy products.

According to reports, up to 60% of those with a thyroid condition are unaware and undiagnosed. Thyroid conditions can increase your risk of obesity, heart disease, depression, anxiety, hair loss, sexual dysfunction and more.  So you can understand, why it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms.

12 Most Common Symptoms of a Thyroid Problem

You don’t need to have all these symptoms in order to have a thyroid problem, but here are the 12 most common signs.

Cognitive Decline

If your thyroid isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your cognitive functioning. Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) can cause difficulty concentrating and too little (hypothyroidism) may cause forgetfulness and general brain fog.

Unpredictable Bowel Movements

Disruption in hormone production can greatly influence your digestive system. Hypothyroidism patients often suffer from long-term constipation and often their constipation does not respond to treatment. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism patients due to their overactive thyroid can suffer from diarrhea or more frequent bowel movements.

Anxiety and Depression

Hypothyroidism is typically associated with depression whereas hyperthyroidism is more commonly associated with anxiety, panic attacks, and bipolar disorder. With your thyroid gland making either too much or too few hormones, the body functions can play havoc. Moreover, depression that does not respond to antidepressants may also be a sign of undiagnosed thyroid disorders.

Irregular Menstruation

Hypothyroidism cause more painful, frequent, and heavier periods while hyperthyroid women have infrequent and shorter menstruation, or even experience the cessation of their menstruation.

Recurrent Miscarriages

Another sign of thyroid disorder in women is the event of recurrent miscarriages. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can interfere with ovulation, which impairs fertility. Pregnant women with thyroid disorders are at greater risk for premature delivery and other pregnancy complications.

Swollen Face

Hypothyroidism is associated with edema or swelling which usually begins around the face, particularly above or below the eyes and along the jaw line. However, the skin on the side of the upper arms may be thickened early in the course of the disease, which will eventually spread throughout the body’s connective tissues.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Extremities Pain

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves pain in the wrist, a tingling sensation or numbness in the hand, wrist, and fingers, and may involve swelling as well. This is a symptom of undertreated or untreated underactive thyroid. Patients could also suffer from shooting pain and a compressed tibial nerve in their legs due to tarsal tunnel and stabbing pain in their feet due to plantar fasciitis. Hyperthyroidism patients, on the other hand, experience pain or weakness in their upper arms and calves.

Hoarse Voice

Hoarseness is yet another sign of a thyroid disorder where your voice box (larynx) bears pressure from a thyroid nodule, which produces a hoarse sound when you speak. It could also be a sign of thyroid cancer. Also, when the thyroid becomes enlarged, this is known as ‘goiter’ and can be a sign of either hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Changes in Hair and Skin

When all the major body systems are slowed down due to hypothyroidism, your body naturally sets some priorities for critical survival. Hair and skin are particularly vulnerable. The most unique and specific of all symptoms is the loss of the outer edge of the eyebrows. In both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, hair can become brittle and dry and break easily. Skin can also become coarse, thick, dry, and scaly. Also, an unusual rash can appear on the skin of the shins called pretibial myxedema or thyroid dermopathy.

Cold Sensitivity

Hypothyroidism is associated with the sensation of cold or chills as your thyroid is underactive, i.e less energy to be burned by cells, so less heat. Whereas, in hyperthyroidism, cells are on overdrive as a result of an overactive thyroid causing feelings of  warmth and profuse sweating.

 Weight Loss/Gain

Thyroid patients can experience a drastic shift in their weight from high to low or vice versa. For example, hyperthyroidism patients could see a surprising drop in their weight, unable to gain further while the hypothyroidism patients could gain weight, making it difficult to lose even with diet or exercise.

Fatigue

In hypothyroidism, you feel the need to rest and restore energy throughout the day, although you have had your 8 hours of sleep. Taking naps during the day can be added to the symptom list. Hyperthyroidism, however, keeps you awake during the night, while leaving you exhausted the following day.

Understanding your symptoms is key to identifying your specific thyroid disorder, which makes it all the more important to know the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Having your thyroid removed is not the final word for you. Exercise has proven to be quite effective; besides, you can normalize your thyroid functioning by eating the right foods. The last thing you want is an undiagnosed thyroid. Your doctor will aim to bring your thyroid activity back to a normal pace—not too fast or too slow. You must cooperate with your doctor—negligence can make the disorder lifelong. Having a thyroid stimulating hormone test (TSH) done will help you boil down to a clear and accurate result.

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Detox and Support the Pineal Gland, Balance Melatonin

The pineal gland, also known as the pineal body, epiphysis cerebri, or conarium, is an endocrine gland in the vertebrate brain about the size of a grain of rice. It is shaped like a tiny pine cone (hence its name), and it’s located in the center of the brain behind and above the pituitary gland. Mystics consider this gland to be the third eye and the connecting link between the physical and spiritual worlds, but until recently the medical community considered it vestigial (an organ that has become functionless through evolution). Now the medical community knows the pineal gland is our major source of melatonin production.

This is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones I believe that it’s easier to heal the body when you understand how the body works, but understanding the endocrine system is big a task.  It’s a long article, but I think it’s worth it and I hope you’ll check it out.

circadian rhythmMelatonin

Since its discovery in 1958, melatonin has been studied extensively and shown to be widely beneficial to the body. The pineal gland releases melatonin with a clear circadian (daily) rhythm. The trigger for the production and release of melatonin from the pineal gland is darkness. The darker it is, the more melatonin is released. Streetlights, nightlights, and ambient lights from cell phones, TVs, computers, and other electronics disrupt melatonin output. If you’re thinking that covering the eyes will solve this, think again. It turns out that light falling on any part of the body will inhibit the hormone. While the physiological function of the pineal gland remained unknown until recently, considering this gland seems to be able to see, the “third eye” concept once again gives credence to thousands of years of ancient wisdom.

Sleep Is Awesome InfographicIt seems most health professionals agree that melatonin levels decline as we age, but this isn’t completely accurate. A Harvard study back in 1999 proved that melatonin levels do not necessarily decline with age. Previous studies had not excluded those on medications that suppress melatonin, nor did they control for factors such as sunlight and fluoridation.

On the other hand, our own melatonin may lose some of its potency as we age. Our receptors for melatonin don’t create the same power from the dose of the hormone they receive. In other words, as we age, the effect of melatonin in our body may diminish some. We don’t know much more than that yet, but it shouldn’t surprise anyone within the natural health community that this too is much more heavily influenced by lifestyle factors than age.

Melatonin offers many other benefits other than sleep. It is one of the most powerful antioxidants produced in the body. It is both water and fat-soluble which allows this neurotransmitter to reach almost every cell in the body, and some studies suggest this hormone may improve the immune system’s health.

Nighttime melatonin levels are low in people with mood swings, depression, panic disorders, seasonal affective disorder, and many other mental health issues.

Unlike sleep medications, supplementing with melatonin does not affect rapid eye movement, REM sleep, or dreaming, but many experts suggest limiting supplementing to no more than three months straight unless recommended by a professional, as melatonin supplementation may have long-term effects on the pineal gland’s production. (Like with other glands, you use it or lose it.)

How to Decalcify and Detoxify the Pineal Gland

Calcification is the biggest problem for the pineal gland, and the main cause is suspected to be fluoride, which accumulates in the pineal gland more than any other organ, leading to the formation of phosphate crystals. There are foods and supplements that can help decalcify the pineal gland, as well as other steps you can take to help rejuvenate and restore health to the third eye.

Don’t wear sunglasses. Light reflected by the retina stimulates the pineal gland. We’re supposed to get sunlight daily, on our skin and with our eyes. Just don’t stare directly at the sun of course.

Fluoride, chlorine, lead, pesticides, synthetic calcium, artificial sweeteners, synthetic fragrances, and mercury, are well-known endocrine disruptors that can lead to pineal calcification. Eat organic produce (from small, responsible farms), and drink only clean, healthy drinking water. When drinking or cooking with tap water, use a filter that removes fluoride and chlorine. A whole house filter, or at least one for the bathtub/shower, would be advisable since we breathe a lot of fluoride and chlorine and other chemicals into our lungs when we shower with tap water, and chemicals are absorbed through the skin.

Antioxidants are a big help to the pineal gland and the endocrine system as a whole. Oregano oil is a powerful antioxidant with a host of other healthful properties that can aid a detox. Oregano oil and neem oil are said to be able to remove existing calcification within the pineal gland. Spirulina, chlorella, wheatgrass and blue-green algae are chlorophyll-rich foods that can also assist in the decalcification of the pineal gland due to strong detoxification properties and massive nutritional benefits. Raw apple cider vinegar is another natural detoxifier that can assist with decalcification of the pineal. Iodine is also imperative for strong pineal function, but supplementing with too much can cause problems as well.

Vitamin K2 is imperative for the body’s ability to properly assimilate calcium. K2 also helps remove calcification and puts that calcium to work elsewhere. Vitamin K2 deficiency is common in modern society and has been connected with a wide array of health ailments. K2 is the new D.

Boron, naturally present in beets, can also be taken in supplemental form and can help decalcify and remove fluoride from the gland. Most importantly, avoid refined, processed foods. Eat a diet with lots of organic, fresh raw produce, which will alkalinize the body and alleviate almost every other symptom of poor health.

Diet is, as always, paramount. Especially in the case of the penial gland, a slightly alkaline diet full of fresh produce decalcifies the gland and keeps it healthy. Check out Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included. And again, this is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones.

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Diabetes, Endocrine Functions of the Pancreas, and Natural Healing

The pancreas produces enzymes for digestion (exocrine) and makes hormones (endocrine). The pancreas makes more exocrine than endocrine. Ninety-eight to ninety-nine percent of the pancreas is used for the digestive juices, but the pancreas also contains scattered groups of neuroendocrine cells called pancreatic islets, or islets of Langerhans. The pancreas is about 12 inches long and tapers to your left. It’s located in the upper abdominal cavity, towards the back, in the C curve of the duodenum.

This is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones I believe that it’s easier to heal the body when you understand how the body works, but understanding the endocrine system is big a task.  It’s a long article, but I think it’s worth it and I hope you’ll check it out. If you just ant information on diabetes, check out How to Improve Blood Sugar Levels and Reverse Diabetes.

Physiology of the endocrine pancreas — four cell types

The islet of Langerhans is comprised of four distinct types of cells, alpha, beta, delta, and gamma.

Alpha cells

Alpha cells constitute 20% of the islet’s cells. They secrete a hormone known as glucagon which is a polypeptide made up of 29 amino acids, which raise blood sugar as needed to maintain normal levels.

The pancreas releases glucagon when glucose levels in the blood fall too low. Glucagon causes the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, which is released into the bloodstream. High blood glucose levels stimulate the release of insulin.

Beta cells

Beta cells constitute around 80% of islet cells. They produce and secrete insulin, a small protein hormone that regulates how the cells in the body utilize glucose. Seventy-five percent of this glucose is used for brain function, while the rest is used for muscle function, red blood cell production, and fuel for every single cell in the body.

Beta cells also produce insulin-like growth factors (specifically, IGF-2), which are available in many body tissues at concentrations that far exceed insulin. IGF -2 shares the molecular structure and shape of insulin and is involved in growth.

Delta cells

Delta cells, which constitute less than 1% of pancreatic islets, secrete somatostatin, the same growth-hormone-inhibiting hormone secreted by the hypothalamus. This hormone inhibits insulin release and slows the absorption of nutrients from the GI tract.

Gamma cells (F cells)

Gamma cells also constitute less than 1% of pancreatic islets. They secrete a pancreatic polypeptide to inhibit somatostatin release.

Delta cells and Gamma cells regulate each other.

Diabetes Mellitus

As of 2015, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and it’s moving up, especially throughout the rest of the world. If stats took into consideration cardiovascular disease (when caused by diabetes) and kidney failure, those numbers could be considerably higher.

There are two main types of diabetes. Type I is insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and Type II is non-insulin-dependent diabetes, which used to go by the name “maturity-onset” or “adult-onset diabetes,” but with our modern diets, it’s not just adults over 40 anymore, or even just adults who are diagnosed with Type II. The third type of diabetes, gestational diabetes, is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. Type I and Type II diabetics end up at essentially the same place, though they arrive there in a very different manner.

With Type I, the body can’t produce enough insulin to drive the sugar into cells where it needs to be used for energy production. With type II the body produces enough insulin (at least in the beginning), but cells become insulin resistant, so sugar stays in the blood.

Natural Protocol for Dealing with Diabetes

Alternative methods for dealing with both types of diabetes are similar, but there are a few additional needs for anyone with type I due to the fact that it’s an autoimmune disease as well as an endocrine disease.

Metformin is the first-line medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, generally used to keep blood sugar levels low. Like almost every other pharmaceutical, it’s toxic and has a list of side effects. The good news is the following herbs are shown to work just as well, or even better when you consider the lack of side effects:

  • Gymnema sylvestre, also called “miracle fruit” (note that this is a common name for two unrelated plants), is an herb native to the tropical forests of southern and central India and Sri Lanka. Studies have shown that this plant can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
  • The prickly pear cactus, known as nopal in Mexico, offers many medicinal effects including the ability to lower blood sugar. It has been well documented by many studies, and it’s used for treating type-2 Diabetes in Mexico.

Other herbal supplementation known to stabilize blood sugar levels:

The following nutrition can help reverse insulin resistance:

You can also help to rebuild the beta cells in the pancreas to optimize insulin production with:

Remember, adrenaline suppresses the release of insulin. Some say to reduce stress, which is always a good idea, but more importantly, handle stress well without losing your temper.

Specific Additions for Type I diabetes (insulin dependent)

Since Type I diabetes is an autoimmune disease, addressing autoimmune activity makes sense. But, the following nutrition wouldn’t be a bad idea for type II diabetes or for almost any autoimmune disease.

Immunomodulators

The following can balance immune system activity and reduce inflammation.

Infection

Viruses may be a cause of Type I diabetes (and Lyme, and many other autoimmune diseases). It’s not at all the whole story (and our bodies can turn off and on viruses depending on our health and genetics, and incidentally, our genetics change with our health as well). Candida, bacterial infections, other fungi, parasites, and/or viruses are likely to be running havoc on anyone with diabetes.

  • Garlic (antimicrobial, many other benefits, pills are ok but best when eaten raw, crushed, see more on garlic)
  • Olive leaf (rare herb that leaves beneficial bacteria intact, kills bad guys)
  • SF722 (antimicrobial, specifically very effective antifungal
  • Berberine (powerful antimicrobial)
Other Nutrition

Protect organs from damage and repair damage caused by the high insulin caused by diabetes:

  • Blood cleaning formula, because the healthier the blood is, the healthier the body is.
  • Proteolytic enzymes (aka systemic enzymes) to break down protein. (Better assimilation of proteins, and helps break down virus proteins, too.)
  • Probiotics, because anyone who’s eaten enough sugar to get a diabetes diagnosis needs to take a good probiotic for a long time!
  • Coenzyme Q10 may help with blood glucose control, and it’s got a massive amount of other benefits, many of which help with diabetic issues.

Diet is, as always, paramount. Check out Detox Cheap and Easy Without Fasting – Recipes Included. And again, this is an excerpt from the ridiculously long article, Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones.

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