The Future of Food

"We used to be a nation of farmers, but now it's less than two percent of the population in the United States. So a lot of us don't know a lot about what it takes to grow food."
- Judith Redmond, Full Belly Farms

"This stylish film is not just for food faddists and nutritionists. It is a look at something we might not want to see: Monsanto, Roundup and Roundup-resistant seeds,collectively wreaking havoc on American farmers and our agricultural neighbors around the world. In the end, this documentary is a eloquent call to action."
-- The Telluride Daily Planet

There is a revolution happening in the farm fields and on the dinner tables of America -- a revolution that is transforming the very nature of the food we eat.

THE FUTURE OF FOOD offers an in-depth investigation into the disturbing truth behind the unlabeled, patented, genetically engineered foods that have quietly filled U.S. grocery store shelves for the past decade.

From the prairies of Saskatchewan, Canada to the fields of Oaxaca, Mexico, this film gives a voice to farmers whose lives and livelihoods have been negatively impacted by this new technology. The health implications, government policies and push towards globalization are all part of the reason why many people are alarmed by the introduction of genetically altered crops into our food supply.

Shot on location in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, THE FUTURE OF FOOD examines the complex web of market and political forces that are changing what we eat as huge multinational corporations seek to control the world's food system. The film also explores alternatives to large-scale industrial agriculture, placing organic and sustainable agriculture as real solutions to the farm crisis today.

More Information

The following is a list of websites that have more information about GMOs and how to get involved in various campaigns.

Please note: These resources are available for people to further educate themselves about the issues dealt with in the film The Future of Food including genetically engineered foods, patenting, corporatization of agriculture, etc. OAW does not endorse every statement made by these websites. We hope readers will obtain more information and reach their own conclusions.

The Center for Food Safety
CFS works to protect human health and the environment by curbing the proliferation of harmful food production technologies and by promoting organic and other forms of sustainable agriculture. CFS engages in legal, scientific and grassroots initiatives to guide national and international policymaking on critical food safety issues.

The Campaign to Label Genetically Engineered Foods
An organization dedicated to creating a national grassroots consumer campaign for the purpose of lobbying Congress and the President to pass legislation that will require the labeling of genetically engineered foods in the United States.

Organic Seed Alliance
Organic Seed Alliance is a nonprofit public charity that supports the ethical development and stewardship of the genetic resources of agricultural seed. They accomplish their goals through collaborative education and research programs with organic farmers and other seed professionals.

Rethinking School Lunch
This Center for Ecoliteracy program advocates food as the focus for a curriculum that teaches the values, skills, and knowledge to change present practices toward sustainable solutions. It offers a guide to transforming our connection to food and farming, beginning with school lunch.

Say No to GMOs!
A site that offers extensive information on the complex and controversial issue of genetic engineering.

Union of Concerned Scientists
UCS is an independent nonprofit alliance of more than 100,000 concerned citizens and scientists. They aim to augment rigorous scientific analysis with innovative thinking and committed citizen advocacy to build a cleaner, healthier environment and a safer world.

Crop Choice
CropChoice is an alternative news and information source for American farmers and consumers about genetically modified crops, corporate agribusiness concentration, farm and trade policy, sustainable agriculture, wind farming and alternative energy, and rural economic and social issues.

Consumers' Union
Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit testing and information organization serving only consumers.

PANNA
PANNA (Pesticide Action Network North America) works to replace pesticide use with ecologically sound and socially just alternatives. As one of five PAN Regional Centers worldwide, we link local and international consumer, labor, health, environment and agriculture groups into an international citizens' action network.

Organic Consumers Association
The Organic Consumers Association (OCA) The OCA is a grassroots non-profit public interest organization which deals with crucial issues of food safety, industrial agriculture, genetic engineering, corporate accountability, and environmental sustainability.

Californians for GE-Free Agriculture
The Californians for GE-Free Agriculture Coalition is unique in that it brings together farmer-based organizations with consumer and environmental groups to halt the introduction of economically and ecologically destructive genetically engineered (GE) crops. Our mission is to stop new GE crop plantings in California.

Genetic Engineering Action Network
The Genetic Engineering Action Network (GEAN) is a diverse network of grassroots activists, national and community non-governmental organizations (NGOs), farmer and farm advocacy groups, academics and scientists who have come together to work on the myriad of issues surrounding biotechnology.

University of Northern Iowa Local Food Project
The University of Northern Iowa Local Food Project works to Strengthen the local food economy in Iowa by connecting institutional food buyers with nearby farms and processors. And by attempting to fostering a growing relationship among consumers, grocers, meat lockers, restaurant owners, dining service staff, farmers, local government and economic development officials.

Green.tv
Green.tv is a broadband TV channel devoted to environmental films. It is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme and is dedicated to educating the public on environmental issues that will shape our world in the coming years.

Nutritional Support for Anemia

Anemia, literally meaning "without blood," is one of the most common nutritional diseases on the planet. There are several major types of anemia, and all of them result in abnormally low levels of iron in the blood. Consequences of anemia, which can range from mild to severe, may produce fatigue, heart trouble, and mental cloudiness, among other symptoms. Anemia also reduces the amount of oxygen available to cells and organs, a significant factor in many disease processes.

Types of Anemia

• Iron deficiency anemia: This is the most common form of anemia, and may be caused by a poor diet, or due to other conditions such as internal bleeding.
• Pernicious anemia: This type is the result of the digestive tract's failure to absorb sufficient amounts of iron or other important nutrients such as vitamin B-12.
• Anemia due to vitamin deficiencies: The body cannot make enough red blood cells (rich in iron) without key nutrients such as B-12 or folic acid.
• Anemia linked to chronic illness: Certain conditions can interfere with the production of red blood cells, producing ongoing anemia. These include HIV, kidney disease, arthritis, and Chron's disease. Certain types of cancer, especially blood or bone marrow cancers, can also interfere with normal blood cell production. Some autoimmune diseases can also cause the body to unnaturally destroy red blood cells.

When a person is anemic (has low iron levels) it is usually because the body is not producing enough red blood cells (RBCs). Without enough RBCs, insufficient amounts of oxygen becomes a problem, and waste products such as carbon dioxide cannot be efficiently eliminated. A protein in RBCs called hemoglobin enables the distribution of oxygen, and anemia is also often the result of low levels of hemoglobin.

Symptoms of Anemia

Fatigue is the most common symptom associated with anemia. Others may include:

• Pale skin
• Irregular heartbeat
• Cold extremities
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Confusion or memory loss
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Headaches
• Bleeding gums or a sore, red tongue
• PICA: Abnormal craving to chew on ice, chalk or crayon
• Prone to illness
• Shortness of breath upon the least bit of exertion

If you suspect you are anemic, blood tests are available that can measure your levels of iron, hemoglobin, and nutrients associated with prevention of anemia such as B-12 and folic acid.

Nutritional Interventions

Except for anemia caused by other conditions, the vast majority of cases can be prevented or turned around through proper nutrition or nutritional supplementation. The use of a natural iron supplement can be appropriate, but keep in mind that too much iron can be toxic to the body. If you do take an iron supplement, be sure to choose one that is in a form similar to that naturally found in the body, as many synthetic forms of iron cannot be absorbed or utilized properly.

Two major nutrients are typically lacking in anemic persons: Vitamin B-12 and folic acid. Both of these can be elevated via a healthy diet or with natural supplementation if necessary. A diet that is high in iron is very beneficial too. Foods that are iron-rich include beans, lentils, dried fruits, and many nuts.

The ability to absorb B-12 declines drastically with age. A sublingual B-12 bypasses the digestive system, providing an infusion of B vitamins directly into the bloodstream. A formula that includes Vitamin B-6 and Folic Acid which work synergistically with Vitamin B-12 in lowering serum homocysteine levels and nutritionally supporting a healthy nervous system and cardiovascular function is recommended. High homocysteine levels are an independent risk factor for heart attack, stroke, or vascular disease. Elevations in homocysteine are found in approximately 20 to 40 percent of patients with heart disease. When there is too much homocysteine in the blood, arteries are damaged and plaque forms. The result is arteriosclerosis and heart disease. This happens when we don't get enough of certain vitamins, mainly B-6, B-12 and folic acid. These B vitamins are missing from our diets because processing and refining foods destroys these vital nutrients.

I highly recommend the methylcobalamin form of vitamin B-12 which is active in the central nervous system. The liver does not convert the cyanocobalamin form of vitamin B-12 into adequate amounts of methylcobalamin. The solution is to take vitamin B-12 in the methylcobalamin form under the tongue every day.

Vitamin B-12 can be found in red meat (or fish such as salmon and mackerel if you wish to avoid red meat), leafy green vegetables, and in dairy foods such as milk, egg yolks, and cheese. If you have pernicious anemia, it is also important to use a spore-bearing probiotic to strengthen the health of your digestive tract. B-12 is necessary for health RBCs to form and reproduce.

Folic acid, another of the B vitamins, works in close conjunction with B-12, and anemics are often low in both. Risk factors for low folic acid levels (and low B-12) include pregnancy, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, the use of certain medications, and alcohol abuse. Foods rich in folic acid include citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables.

It is also important to get enough vitamin C, as this substance helps your body to absorb more iron, B-12, and folic acid.

Let me suggest a superfood that is wonderful for treating and preventing anemia: organic, non-sulphured blackstrap molasses. This byproduct of refined sugar has a rich, bittersweet flavor, and is rich in numerous nutritional goodies including iron, calcium, copper, manganese, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin B-6. In fact, blackstrap molasses is higher in iron than red meat, and lower in calories and fat-free to boot!

Other Resources

Response of Trypanosoma Brucei Brucei--induced Anemia to a Commercial Herbal Preparation

Healthy Benefits of Vitamin B-12

Bitter Melon for Diabetes

Bitter melon is one of those natural foods and herbal remedies that are really fun to learn about. Bitter melon is very useful for many health applications. It is used in some cultures as a food source, and researchers have only begun to fully understand how and why it is so beneficial. All of these factors make bitter melon a wonderful gift from our Creator. Its positive effects on treating and preventing diabetes is probably the most well-known benefit of bitter melon, but, as with most natural substances, new uses are cropping up all the time as we begin to understand better the ins and outs of the interplay between its various components.

The bitter melon plant (momordica charantia) has a long history of use in Eastern cultures, and its virtues have become more popular worldwide in recent decades. Also known as bitter gourd or balsam pear, this vegetable was originally native to Asia and today grows wild or is cultivated in tropical regions around the globe. It is similar in appearance to a cucumber with a bumpy skin, has a bitter taste as the name indicates, and most of its medicinal value is concentrated in the extract of the unripe fruit, interestingly enough. In a Chinese medical book from the 16th century, bitter melon is described as "bitter in taste, non-toxic, expelling evil heat, relieving fatigue, and illuminating." Supplemental forms of bitter melon capitalize on its qualities that have been known in traditional medicine for many years.

Bitter Melon and Diabetes

Diabetes is growing at epidemic rates throughout the West and around the world, with 50 million cases currently worldwide, and that number projected to reach 300 million by 2025. Big Pharma has jumped on this crisis and developed drugs that help manage insulin and regulate blood sugar. However, the catch is that they have potentially hazardous side effects including buildup of fluids, weight gain, and heart failure.

The exciting thing about bitter melon is that it functions to counteract diabetes in similar ways to these drugs, but without any known side effects. Researchers have identified at least four distinct components of bitter melon that stimulate an enzyme called AMPK, which is a protein that plays a key role in the progressing of fuel in the body, especially glucose. The action of bitter melon on AMPK is just like that of physical exercise on the body. For diabetics, or to prevent diabetes, taking a bitter melon supplement along with exercising is a powerful one-two punch.

Bitter melon is effective on both type 1 (insulin dependant) and type 2 (maturity onset) diabetes. Certain compounds in bitter melon help lower and maintain proper levels of blood sugar in the body. Of particular benefit to type 2 diabetes, bitter melon also reduces a phenomenon known as insulin resistance by which diabetics cannot properly absorb and use insulin. Even beyond that, scientists studying the effects of bitter melon have discovered that it can actually increase the number of cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, thereby helping the body to naturally help itself.

Not only do components of the Bitter Melon plant act to lower blood sugar levels in diabetes, but they also have beneficial effects on conditions associated with this disease. These include prevention of the development of diabetes-related cataracts, a result that has been demonstrated in preliminary studies thus far in humans and mice. Reductions in diabetes-related nerve damage (neuropathy) and also stomach conditions (gastropathy) have been demonstrated in experimental rats fed Bitter Melon as well.(1)

Bitter melon is an excellent example of a natural substance that has numerous bioactive components that work together synergistically to produce health benefits that could not occur if the ingredients were isolated. (This is why consuming organic fruits and vegetables, especially if raw, is better for us than just drinking the juice, for example.) To date, about 32 different components of bitter melon have been identified that have various bioactive properties. Some are unique to bitter melon, but others that you probably recognize include lycopene, vitamins B and C, beta-carotene, potassium, calcium, and iron.

Other Uses for Bitter Melon

Bitter melon has been used over the centuries for many health applications. It has proven itself beneficial as a preventative measure and a treatment for digestive disorders, respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and asthma, and diarrhea, to name a few.

Weight loss. In India, Bitter Melon has traditionally been used as a weight-loss aid. A number of studies Bitter Melon fruit and/or seeds have been shown to reduce blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, both in the presence and absence of dietary fats. University of Hong King researchers have demonstrated that Bitter Melon reduces adiposity (the ability to store fat or create adipose tissue) in rats fed a high-fat diet. The Bitter Melon powder used in this study did not work by blocking fat absorption within the gastrointestinal tract; rather it appeared to regulate fat metabolism within the rat's tissues.

Cancer. A phytochemical isolated from Bitter Melon has clinically demonstrated the ability to inhibit an enzyme, guanylate cyclase, that is thought to be linked to the pathogenesis of cancer. MAP30, a Bitter Melon derivative, also inhibits prostate tumor growth.

Herpes/AIDS. Bitter melon is also a versatile anti-viral substance, with experiments studying its effectiveness on the herpes-1 virus being very promising. One of the most exciting areas of research regarding bitter melon has been about using it to fight HIV/AIDS. The protein MAP 30 inhibits new growth of the HIV virus in white blood cells, and slows down the duplication of the virus in infected cells as well. Perhaps the potential of bitter melon as a wellness tool is far greater than we even know at this point in time.

Bitter Melon Contraindications(2)

If taken in capsules, power or liquid form, I highly suggest being monitored by a qualified healthcare practitioner. Bitter Melon may have additive effects when taken with other drugs whose action is to lower blood glucose levels. Bitter Melon should never be taken in combination with these therapies, especially in addition to insulin.

Since the fruit and seed of Bitter Melon have proven to be effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels in animal studies, those taking medication to lower blood cholesterol should avoid using Bitter Melon.

Bitter Melon has been used to promote uterine contractions so its use should be avoided during pregnancy. Nursing mothers should also avoid using Bitter Melon both as a food and as an herbal remedy.

Avoid Bitter Melon if one has a known allergy or an allergy to any member of the Curcurbitaceae plant families.

Reference

Bitter Melon -- Nature's Anti-Diabetic by W. G. Goreja. (1)(2)

More Information

Our Deadly Diabetes Deception

Diabetes

Mandatory Vaccinations -- How To Minimize Harmful Effects

The onslaught of media coverage about swine flu has decreased somewhat in recent months, but stories still pop up regarding its effects around the world and fears of health officials that it will become a "killer epidemic." All this despite the facts indicating that swine flue is, in reality, the result of manufactured hysteria designed to justify mass vaccinations. The evidence for labeling swine flue as a public health menace simply isn't there. Consider the fact that influenza deaths in the U.S. average 30,000 annually, while only 117 fatalities worldwide have been "officially" linked to H1N1 (swine flu). It is obvious that there is an agenda behind all this hype. One of the biggest fears is that legislation will be passed making vaccinations for swine flu and other "diseases" mandatory.

In a fascinating article in last month's Baltimore Chronicle, author Stephen Lendman(a) educates us as to why the powers-that-be are pushing for mandatory vaccinations, some of the unsavory history of vaccine hazards, and why allowing these substances to enter our bodies is a very bad health choice.

Much has been written about the conspiracy between groups such as the World Health Organization (WHO), National Institutes of Health (NIH), the FDA, and pharmaceutical firms regarding vaccinations. Some in this network are seeking power and political control through manipulation, and see mass vaccines as a way to further accomplish their goals. The other major factor is money. Let's face it: There is an enormous amount of it at stake, and Big Pharma stands to reap windfall profits if vaccines become mandatory.

In his article, Lendman discusses another very ominous aspect of the vaccine debate. One of the reasons given for the use of certain vaccinations is protection from chemical, viral, or bacterial warfare. Usage of experimental vaccines on members of the U.S. Military has been justified because of this reasoning, despite the known (and unknown) dangers of these untested drugs (Gulf War Syndrome is an excellent example). However, due to the components of some vaccines, particularly a substance called squalene which is found in almost all of the newer generation vaccinations, the administration of these chemicals could itself be a form of bioterrorism. When injected directly into the body squalene has been linked to debilitating autoimmune diseases that cause the body to turn on itself in the form of arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions. Could it be that one of the purposes of pushing these unnecessary and harmful vaccine programs is to keep the financially huge "sick care industry" alive and well?

Will Vaccines Soon Be Mandatory?

There are some things going on that might indicate this is the plan. Certain measures have been passed and others are in the works that may very well be setting us up for mandatory vaccinations. Several states are now forcing children to be vaccinated with increasingly large numbers of chemicals before enrolling in school or day care. The Military is also ramping up for more shots, many of which are experimental, with little or no data to support their safety or effectiveness. Laws have been passed that allow the FDA to expedite approval of vaccines without adequate testing in the face of a "medical emergency," a term that is very poorly defined. (The manufacturers are also protected from potential liability, interestingly enough.) The next step is to convince the public that "preventative" vaccines are needed to protect us all from scary diseases (many of which do not really exist!) They would rather intimidate the American people with fear and let them choose to line-up to be vaccinated, but making it mandatory is a reality that may possibly occur, with those who resist being branded as unpatriotic troublemakers that must be brought under control for the good of us all.

"Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Benjamin Franklin

Protection From Vaccines

If it comes down to submitting to forced vaccinations, there are steps you can take to support your health despite exposure to these toxins. The most important thing to remember is to keep your immune system (digestive tract) as strong as possible by pursuing a lifestyle that includes an organic diet heavy on a variety of fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, plenty of pure water, sunshine, stress reduction and adequate exercise and sleep.

1) Homeopathic intervention is also recommended. Homeopathy is a concept of "like cures like" that introduces a minute amount of a disease-causing substance with the result being development of immunity to the illness by the body. One particular type of homeopathic remedy is called a nosode, and has been used extensively in veterinary applications as an alternative to traditional vaccines like rabies and others that are toxic to the animals. Studies have also indicated success at protecting humans both from illnesses and from the hazards of traditional vaccines. Homeopathy is a very useful tool that can be used to combat the effects of vaccinations if it gets to the point in this country that our health freedoms are so battered that we lost the legal right to refuse vaccines. Do your research and decide if this is something to have on-hand for your family.

2) Performing a heavy metal cleanse after any type of vaccination can help the body to rid itself of harmful chemicals and metals that are in many vaccines. Even children can perform a heavy metal cleanse safely and effectively.

3) Zeolite is an excellent choice for removing heavy metals and toxins. I prefer to use Zeolite that has been naturally "bound" and absorbed directly into the molecular structure of fulvic acid, making it easily and completely accepted or bio-available to the human body.

4) Chlorella stimulates the activity of T-cells and macrophages by increasing interferon levels, thus enhancing the immune system's ability to combat foreign invaders whether bacteria, viruses, chemicals or foreign proteins. Chlorella is a powerful detoxification aid for heavy metals and pesticides.

5) While performing cleanses and detoxifying from heavy metals and chemical toxins, it is imperative to keep your liver supported and your digestive tract clean. I recommend an organic whole-herb, alcohol-free tincture called LivaPure for liver support and detoxification. For digestive tract cleansing, Pure Vegan Mag O7 is an oxygen-based entire digestive tract cleanser that I recommend and use personally. Be sure to use a good spore-bearing probiotic during and after any type of cleanse.

Most importantly, do not allow FEAR or unfounded scenarios control your thoughts. Decisions that are made under fear are usually regretted later. Put together a plan for your family and include products in your natural medicine cabinet that will address heavy metal and chemical cleansing, liver support and digestive tract cleansing. Being prepared is ALWAYS a wise choice!

More Vaccination Information

OAW Vaccination Articles

(a)Stephen Lendman is a Research Associate of the Centre for Research on Globalization. He can be reached at lendmanstephen@sbcglobal.net. Also visit his blog site at http://www.sjlendman.blogspot.com/

Gingivitis and Your Health

Gingivitis, also known as gum disease, periodontal disease, or bleeding gums, is a common health issue, with an estimated 80% of American adults likely to experience it to some degree or another in their lifetime. The vast majority of gingivitis can be treated and prevented through good oral hygiene and a nutritious diet. However, in some cases, gingivitis can indicate or cause greater health concerns, and potentially lead to serious systemic infections that can become critical health issues.

Gingivitis, literally meaning "inflammation of the gingiva," is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth that attack the gingiva, which is the gum tissue located at the base of the teeth, and can spread to other periodontal tissues such as the entire gums, bone, and additional soft tissues that surround the teeth. Food residues combine with bacteria to form a substance called plaque that harden and turn into a more permanent form called calculus or tartar. The inflammation that results can cause gums to deteriorate and bleed. The good news is that with proper mouth care, plaque will not form. When poor dental hygiene is practiced, the concern can increase to more extreme cases of gingivitis that can produce bone and tooth loss and potential spread of the infection throughout the body. In some cases, this can be fatal if certain organs of the body are attacked.

The best way to avoid gingivitis is to effectively brush your teeth after every meal followed by a natural mouth spray such as Breath Fresh(TM). If you can't realistically brush throughout the day, at least rinse your mouth with water and then apply Breath Fresh(TM). Eating a health diet while avoiding sugar and simple carbohydrates is recommended, as these foods attract harmful bacteria to your mouth, and quickly form into plaque. Three times weekly perform a mouth and gum cleanse using an oral irrigator.

Use an natural fluoride-free tooth paste or make up a batch of my Natural Tooth Powder recipe. Always follow by a good rinse with Breath Fresh(TM). An effective remedy for gingivitis is to place two drops of Oregasil(TM) Oregano Oil in warm, filtered water and then swish in the mouth for 10-15 seconds two times daily. If you practice this consistently, your teeth and gums will love you for it, and you will prevent or help heal the issues that lead to gingivitis.

Symptoms of Gingivitis

If you notice any blood in the sink or on your tooth brush after brushing or flossing, take notice. If this continues after improving your oral care, you may have a problem with gingivitis.

Other signs can include swollen, tender gums that are a darker red in color rather than the normal pink. Unusually bad breath is also typical when the gums are infected.

More severe cases can produce decay of the bone and soft tissues surrounding the gums, and loose teeth that can be a consequence of that. If gingivitis has advanced this far, there is a good chance of dangerous systemic infections.

What Else Can Gingivitis Point To?

If you continue to suffer from bleeding gums even after practicing good oral health, your body may be leaving clues to other possible causes for the gingivitis.

• Nutritional deficiencies: Certain nutrients can prevent bleeding gums, particularly vitamins B and C. These are needed to keep oral tissues healthy, and vitamin C is a particularly potent antioxidant that will help prevent infections in the gums.
• Weakened immune system: Gingivitis can indicate that your immune system is not as strong as it should be. Normally, if you take good care of your teeth and gums, the immune system will naturally deal with the harmful bacteria that triggers gingivitis. However, if your body is fighting illness such as cancer, diabetes, or other chronic conditions such arthritis or fibromyalgia, for example, your immune system may be over-worked and unable to prevent gum disease.
• Medication side-effects: Some drugs can reduce the amount of saliva secreted in the mouth. Saliva naturally acts as an anti-bacterial agent, so it is easier for gingivitis to occur if saliva levels are lowered. Medications to watch out for include antihistamine, cold remedies, some blood pressure meds and immunosuppressive drugs, often given in conjunction with organ transplants. Gingivitis risk is also increased for people who are undergoing chemotherapy, as this is very hard on the immune system. Leukemia patients often suffer from bleeding gums both from the illness itself and treatments they are receiving.
• Hormonal changes: When hormonal balances vary, as is often the case during menopause, puberty, and pregnancy, gingivitis may more easily develop. Hormones play so many key roles, and controlling the types and amounts of bacteria in the mouth is one of them.

Health Benefits of Melatonin

Melatonin research has increased significantly in the last 25 years or so, and it is exciting to see the increasing amounts of evidence pointing towards numerous health benefits associated with this hormone. Long known for its ability to regulate sleep and other bodily cycles, melatonin has also been identified as a powerful antioxidant and immune system booster that can help prevent and treat a variety of diseases.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by a gland located in the brain of all mammals called the pineal gland. This gland is light-sensitive, and its production of melatonin is regulated by the daily cycles of light and darkness. Melatonin is necessary for proper regulation of the body's circadian rhythm, the natural 24-hour cycle that determines sleep/awake patterns, metabolism rates, and other daily functions.

Melatonin causes you to naturally get sleepy at night and wake up in the morning as daylight arrives. Melatonin output peaks in the middle of the night, and blood levels drop to their lowest at daybreak and when we awaken.

Melatonin production drops significantly as we age. The pineal gland starts putting out melatonin around the age of 3 months, and increases steadily until the age of 2 or 3, when it begins to drop its nightly production. Blood levels in senior citizens is much lower than in younger people, likely accounting for the higher incidence of sleep disorders in older people. Fortunately, supplemental forms of melatonin are available to counteract these natural drops.

Benefits of Melatonin

• Sleep regulation: As mentioned, melatonin regulates sleep patterns. It is often used to treat jet lag, for people who sleep during the day, and for seniors and others that have trouble sleeping. More current research points to additional benefits of melatonin: It seems to not only induce sleep, but also boosts the effectiveness of what is known as "restorative sleep." One of the reasons plenty of quality sleep is so important is that this is the time when our body repairs and restores its own cells, tissues, and organs, with both healing and the elimination of wastes occurring during each sleep cycle.
  Because of the fact that melatonin production is triggered by darkness, it is a legitimate health concern for night workers who sleep during the day. They need supplemental melatonin to sleep and to prevent potential disease caused by insufficient levels of melatonin (more on that in a moment).
• Antioxidant: Antioxidants are the worst enemies of free-radicals, substances that break down the body and increase our risk for disease. Research indicates that melatonin has powerful antioxidant qualities -- perhaps even more potent than known antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Some studies have produced evidence that melatonin may help to protect genetic material in the body from damage, thus reducing risk for cancer, stroke, and other debilitating conditions. Studies have linked low levels of melatonin to breast, prostate, liver, and other cancers. Melatonin is also involved in the regulation of many of the female hormones.
  Melatonin is also structured so that it has the ability to pass through the membrane of literally all cells of the body, including the brain (because it can cross the blood-brain barrier).
• Cognitive and mood-altering benefits: Melatonin can help stabilize moods, fight depression, and help with other neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Studies have shown it to be particularly beneficial for combating "sundowning" in Alzheimer's patients, a phenomenon characterized by increased confusion and agitation occurring in the evening. Research has also linked Parkinson's disease to reduced melatonin secretion.
• Immune system: Melatonin may also help strengthen the immune system, by bolstering the production of natural killer cells, and because of its antioxidant properties. It can also reduce the effects of aging, and in one study actually extended the life span of rats by 25%. The implications for this in humans is as of yet unproven but nonetheless very interesting.
  Melatonin has also been used successfully to combat the hazardous side effects of chemotherapy, a situation that seriously impacts the health of the immune system
• Migraine headaches: Melatonin has also been used to prevent and treat migraine headaches, with many patients reporting up to a 50% reduction in the number of migraines after taking melatonin supplements. This may be because of its anti-inflammatory effect.

More Information

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Eliminating Constipation From Your Life

Constipation is a very common problem for many Americans, and it seems to only be getting worse as our national health continues to deteriorate from a poor diet, lethargic lifestyle, and other bad habits. Unfortunately, constipation is more than just a nuisance or inconvenience. When waste is not regularly and efficiently eliminated from the bowel, it exposes our bodies to toxins and can lead to serious conditions such as colon cancer and other potentially life-threatening diseases. The good news is that regularity is a by-product of a lifestyle of wellness, and constipation can, in most cases, be totally eliminated through digestive tract cleansing, healthy eating, proper hydration, and by getting plenty of exercise -- things we should be doing anyway.

How do I Know if I Have a Constipation Concern?

Everyone should experience at least two-three bowel movements daily. Some researchers estimate that 4-5 million Americans are diagnosed with constipation annually, but this figure is likely very low. Why? Simply because mainstream physicians just don't get the importance of 2-3 bowel
movements daily, and in fact, consider such a goal to be ridiculous. I have heard of some doctors telling patients that moving their bowels once a week is normal and ok for them! No wonder colon cancer and bowel disease is on the rise.
The truth of the matter is that we were designed to quickly process the food we eat and eliminate the waste products promptly. In more primitive cultures -- especially when their diet is primarily raw grains, fruits, and vegetables instead of processed and refined foods -- it is common for people to eliminate about 20 minutes after every meal, an event that happens several times daily.

If you are not having bowel movements often enough, are suffering from hard stools and having to strain to move your bowels, or experiencing foul-smelling stools, I would be very concerned about the health of your bowel and you would definitely qualify as having a constipation concern.

Major Causes of Constipation

There are a lot of causes of constipation, and the damages caused by constipation can sometime be very hard to repair. A permanently damaged bowel is called Hirschsprung's disease -- which means the nerves going to the bowel have been permanently damaged or destroyed. It is a very common disease affecting millions of people, however conventional doctors do not seem to diagnose it.

• Iron supplements
• Unhealthy diet -- lack of fiber
• Lack of exercise
• Pregnancy
• Painkillers
• Cancer treatments
• Antidepressants
• Low Thyroid Hormones
• Kidney malfunction
• Diabetes
• Dehydration
• Cough Syrup
• Codeine
• Heart Medication
• Calcium Carbonate Supplements -- TUMS, etc.
• Antihistamines

Eliminating Constipation

The health of the bowel is a very good indicator of the condition of the entire body, and most cases of constipation are simply the result of poor lifestyle choices. Some of the best steps one can take to eliminate constipation include:

• Eat healthy: Eliminate junk food, high-fat/low-fiber foods, sugar, and processed foods. Fiber is absolutely necessary for good bowel health, and a diet high in raw foods, whole grains, and a variety of organic fruits and vegetables will be your colon's best friend. You will not be constipated, and your bowel will be able to absorb a maximum amount of nutrients from the quality fuel you provide for your body.
• Stay hydrated: Many cases of constipation are solely due to dehydration. Be sure to drink 6-8 glasses of filtered water daily, and eliminate caffeinated beverages such as coffee and soft drinks.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity provides numerous healthful benefits, and preventing constipation is one of them. Exercise improves muscle tone and performance in the intestinal tract, allowing for more effective elimination of waste.
• Don't "put off" the urge: One key to regularity is to promptly move your bowels rather than postponing it until later. Allowing fecal matter to stay in your gut any longer than necessary only contributes to bowel compaction and constipation, and it enables toxins to enter the body and produce disease.
• Colon Cleansing: Regular use of an oxygen-based colon cleansing product will help promote regularity and do wonders for the overall health of your digestive tract. It will help to clear and prevent the accumulation of waste, an issue that can cause constipation and lead to more serious bowel disorders.
• Use a spore-bearing probiotic: Much of the action in the digestive tract, both absorption of nutrients and elimination waste, is made possible by the presence of beneficial bacteria. One cause of constipation and other bowel concerns is a lack of such flora, often due to the overuse of antibiotic drugs. Supplementation with a quality probiotic is a powerful way to keep your bowel healthy.
• Eliminating stress: Stress is very destructive to both mind and body, and constipation can be caused by stress. Learning how to deal with the stresses of modern life is a huge step towards wellness. Suggestions for combating stress include prayer, relaxation techniques, exercise, and plenty of quality sleep, to name a few.

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