Well-Being Report

By Zoere’ Wilcoxen, CCN

Well-Being Associates

November/December 2007

Contents

World’s Most Perfect Food?
What’s a Krill?
Safe Cold, Cough, & Fever Products for Children
100% Effective Cough Cure?
Have You Heard the One About Soap?
Be a Citizen Health Activist – Make Your Voice Heard
Vaccine Causing Antibiotic Resistant Ear Infections
Sweet and Sugar Free
Gluten: An Enemy No Longer?

10.”Dump the Junk” 28 Day Group Detoxification Program

World’s Most Perfect Food?

Free-radical or oxidative damage has been linked to cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disease so the study of antioxidants has been accelerated in recent years. What is clear from these studies is that food-based antioxidants such as from fruits and vegetables seem to be vastly superior to manufactured or synthesized versions. It has been suggested that it is the synergistic effects of phytonutrients that increases the antioxidant effect of foods over synthetics. It is this effect which excited us most when we first found out about the magically berry from the Amazon known as Acai.

Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) is a berry found only in the Amazon and has been used by the natives as a food source and energy boost for centuries. It was recently discovered by the western world and it is making its way into our health awareness. What makes Acai Ultra™ different from anything else out there? KTS Products was the first company to utilize a freeze-dried, patent-pending form of this berry known as OptiAcai™. KTS is now a part of Crayhon Research and the product has re- named Acai Ultra™.

Acai Ultra™ is an extensively tested, high potency product that has shown ORAC readings that are far higher than other forms on the market. ORAC assays are used to measure the antioxidant capacity of a product and Acai Ultra™ has one of the highest readings on this scale ever found in nature. An analysis of over 927 freeze-dried vegetables published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2002, green peppers, spinach, purple onion, broccoli, beets and cauliflower were the strongest antioxidants according to their ORAC results. They ranged from a mean of 154 (green pepper) to 102 for cauliflower. In analysis done on Acai Ultra™ the ORAC reading came back at an astounding 442 per gram! That means your get 3 to over 4 times the antioxidant power with Acai Ultra™.

Here are even more amazing properties of this new product. Acai Ultra™ contains not only a wide variety of antioxidants such as: anthocyanins, flavonoid-related compounds, including catechin, quercetin, flavonols, proanthocyanidins, and trans-reseveratrol, it also has nutrients such as ß-carotene, vitamins C, D, E, B-complex nutrients and an array of trace minerals. Add that to the saturated and polyunsaturated fat content (both omega 6 and 9 fatty acids) and you have one of the most complete and good for you foods in the world.

2. What’s a Krill?

Krill are tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that live in the open ocean and polar waters and provide food for fish, seals, and some species of whales.

Krill oil is unique in that it offers a naturally occurring complex of omega-3 and omega- 6 fatty acids, phospholipids and astaxanthin. This phospholipid-fatty acid molecule closely resembles that of human brain phospholipids, providing potential support for cognitive function. The essential fatty acids in krill oil differ from the more common fish oil omega-3’s that are triglycerides not phospholipids. This makes the fatty acids in krill more bio-available and therefore more effective.

Krill oil may also mediate hormone, prostaglandin, and neurotransmitter function to support menstruating women. A double blind, randomized clinical trial suggested that krill oil promoted physical and emotional well being during the menstrual cycles of women volunteers. Krill oil also provides an ideal essential fatty acid balance for healthy cardiovascular and platelet function. A prospective Phase II randomized, double blind, clinical trial suggested that krill oil supports healthy lipid, triglyceride and glucose metabolism. A prospective controlled pilot clinical trial reported that krill oil supplementation helped promote joint flexibility and comfort. In addition, a randomized, controlled pre-clinical trial investigated the effects of krill oil on skin health and reported that it supports the body's natural defenses against the sun and environment. A good daily supplement would be from 1,000 to 4,000 mg.

3. Safe Cold, Cough, & Fever Products for Children

Recent news reports have highlighted physicians' concerns regarding over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for infants and young children. The concerns of possible overdosing have prompted a withdrawal of many infant and children cough and cold formulas intended for children 6 years and younger. According to recent Associated Press news report a Food and Drug Administration panel stated that over-the-counter cold and cough medicines should not be given to children younger than 6 years old.

Parents do have a choice. Heel (makers of homeopathic formulas) offers safe, effective and natural medicines for infants and children suffering from common cold and flu symptoms. Health practitioners may confidently recommend many Heel medicines for young patients including Viburcol ® liquid drops for restlessness and fever; CoughFreecough syrup for coughs (recommended for ages 2 and up); Euphorbium Sinus Relief TM nasal spray (also sold as Sinusin TM) for nasal congestion; and Traumeel ® ear drops for ear pain, inflammation and stuffiness. These products act rapidly to soothe and comfort children without overdosing precautions. Dr Bruce Shelton, MD, noted Homeopathic Family Physician in Phoenix, AZ, commented, "Since learning how effective homeopathics are, I give all of my pediatric patient’s liquid complex homeopathic preparations and I see dramatic recoveries in short amounts of time without the recurrent infections seen so commonly with traditional methods."

Viburcol ® has been clinically researched and is comparable to acetaminophen for the symptomatic treatment of acute feverish infections in children under the age of 12.

I have a number of other excellent brands of products that are safe for young children so contact me if you do not find the Heel products at your health food store.

4. 100% Effective Cough Cure?

Some of us have used Vicks Vaporub for years for everything from chapped lips to sore toes and many body parts in between. I've never heard of this, but I am assured by some who have tried it that it works 100% of the time although the scientists at the Canadian Research Council (reported to have discovered it) aren't sure why.

To stop night time coughing in a child (or adult), put Vicks Vaporub generously on the bottom of the feet at bedtime, then put on socks (cotton or wool are the best). Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about 5 minutes and stay stopped for many hours of relief. I am told this is more effective in children than even strong prescription cough medicines. In addition it is reported to be extremely soothing and comforting and they sleep more soundly.

If you try it I would like to have your feedback on how this works.

Have You Heard the One About Soap?

The Graedon’s People’s Pharmacy column in The Seattle Times on October 21, 2007, confirmed a readers question about putting a bar of soap (no brand mentioned) under the bottom sheet on your bed to stop leg cramps. The article says they have testimonials from a reader claiming it works. This is another one I want to hear about if you try it.

6. Be a Citizen Health Activist - Make Your Voice Heard

We must all be proactive and make each voice heard by those who make the laws that control our lives. One of the best ways is to join a well organized and respected organization that has the ears of the law makers. Two such organizations are “Citizens for Health” (www.citizen.org) and “Environmental Defense” (www.environmentaldefense.org).

A big reason Citizens for Health is so effective is that the political clout represented by nearly 100,000 members is just about impossible for decision-makers to ignore. Add your voice to the membership and let’s shout so we are heard in Washington, DC!

7. Vaccine Causing Antibiotic Resistant Ear Infections

A pneumonia vaccine that is routinely administered to young children is promoting development of new “superbugs” that are causing ear infections.

Doctors have recently reported discovering the first germ resistant to all drugs approved to treat childhood ear infections. It is a strain of strep bacteria that is not included in the vaccine. Doctors at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention say that the best way to prevent these resistant infections and their spread is to avoid using antibiotics unless absolutely necessary.

Several years ago there was a five year study done at Tufts University that showed about 70% of childhood ear “infections” were actually allergy reactions; especially to foods. These inflammatory reactions look the same but when the actual fluid in the ears was cultured and tested, the need for antibiotics was found to be necessary in only about 30% of the cases.

I have products specifically designed to modulate and support immune function in children of all ages so contact me if you want more information.

Sweet and Sugar Free

Did you know that Stevia is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar? This versatile sweetener from plants is gaining popularity and acceptance even in commercial products. It is available in several forms such as liquid and powder. Some brands of Stevia are reported to leave an unpleasant after taste but I have the solution for you. SweetLeaf™ is the maker of a variety of Stevia products, the only all-natural, no-calorie, sweet alternative to sugar. Visit www.sweetleaf.com to find out more, get special deals, and learn about the many uses of Stevia.

9. Gluten: An Enemy No Longer?

Gluten intolerance is more common than previously thought. The autoimmune disorder is said to affect 1 in 112 Americans, that's up from earlier estimates of 1 in 250. Certainly these numbers have increased partially because of better understanding and screening techniques, but gluten is in almost everything that we consume. Read product labels and you'll find that wheat, barley, barley malt, oats and rye are often ingredients in most pre-packaged, processed foods.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, a division of the National Institutes of Health, gluten intolerance is sometimes misdiagnosed because it masquerades as other disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's disease, Diverticulitis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, etc. Some common symptoms of gluten intolerance include:

Hives and Eczema
Angioedema (swelling due to allergy)
Abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting
Asthma, allergic rhinitis
Diarrhea

If you have been diagnosed with or feel you may be gluten sensitive there are a number of things you can do.

Take a specially formulated enzyme supplement designed to:
rapidly digest gluten into non-immunogenic peptides
block partially-digested gluten peptides from being absorbed
Take a good probiotic to maintain healthy intestinal flora. This is important to prevent the development of leaky gut syndrome and maintain a strong immune system, and is especially important for anyone who is trying to reverse and repair intestinal damage.
Avoid foods that contain gluten including wheat, spelt, triticale, and kamut, rye, oats and barley.

I also have special enzyme supplements for lactose intolerance as well as a special children’s formula that addresses both gluten and dairy sensitivity.

10. “Dump the Junk” 28 Day Group Detoxification Program

Did you know that your liver is vital to your overall health and vitality? The liver is essential to hormone metabolism, regulating cholesterol, keeping joints and muscles healthy as well as nourishing the eyes to name a few areas of its influence. Symptoms of a sluggish liver include:

Fatigue and malaise
Allergies and chemical sensitivities
Discomfort in the lower right chest and upper abdomen
Constipation
Intolerance to alcohol and fatty foods
Weight gain or loss
Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
Skin blemishes and poor complexion
Darkish urine

Login to my website www.well-being.net and click on the Questionnaire menu then choose Metabolic Screening from the drop down. You will see a number of questionnaires but print off and fill out #4 Detoxification Questionnaire and #5 Environmental Indications Questionnaire. Filling out these two questionnaires is a good way to check for sluggish liver activity and toxic buildup. Email me if you have questions about your questionnaire scores.

Designs for Health, one of the premier professional supplement manufacturers, has designed a “Dump the Junk” 28 DayDetoxification Program for group participation. Many people don’t want to do a program by themselves but will if there is support from others going through the same thing. I would like to offer this opportunity to my clients but with a twist. Since I am not located close to you and you can’t come for a 28 day vacation to beautiful Bellingham, WA, I propose having weekly telephone conferences. This would be through a free teleconferencing company that provides the service for a number of these “voice only seminars”. I attend such seminars almost weekly enabling me to stay up-to-date on current developments in the health field.

Some of the symptoms that may be relieved by the detox program include:

Digestive problems, bad breath, constipation
Headaches, joint pain, fatigue, allergies
Irritability, poor concentration, lack of motivation
Skin itching or rashes, pallor
Weight loss if needed

This would give you a weekly opportunity to ask questions, discuss any symptoms you might be experiencing, talk about food options, hear what other people are experiencing, report improvements, and best of all get the support you may lack. The cost for all of the products for the 28 days, support material, and weekly (free) calls is $495.00. I am not charging anything for my time and I have arranged for Kim McDonald, a Designs for Health detox coach, to join us on the calls.

I am targeting Tuesday, January 15, 2008, at 6PM PST as the date and time for the “Kick Off” teleconference. This would be 7 PM MST, 8 PM CST, and 9 PM EST. If you have suggestions for a different day of the week please let me know. Tuesday seems to be neutral as far as a lot of planned activities go for most people. The times listed give you an opportunity to hopefully take a breather and eat supper. I am looking into being able to record the calls for those who have to miss one for some reason. This is the ideal time to start the New Year off right and unload the holiday “Junk”.

The dead line for signing up and completing payment in full for the “Dump the Junk” 28 Day Detox Program is December 31, 2007 to allow time for the products and support materials to reach you before the first teleconference. Reserve your space now with a $100.00 deposit as space is limited for the free teleconference lines. The entire fee is 100% refundable if I am notified by January 5, 2008, that you are unable to attend. Otherwise there will be a return freight and restocking fee of 15% deducted because the supplements for the whole 28 day program will have already been shipped to you. You will receive instructions on how to call into the conference several days before the “Kick Off”. There is no limit for those who wish to do this program on their own without the phone support.

Please feel free to email or call with any questions you may have about the program. I will be doing the program along with you so LET’S GET HEALTHY TOGETHER!