Clinic Wellness Team. A key factor to spine or back pain conditions is staying healthy. Overall wellness involves a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, physical activity, restful sleep, and a healthy lifestyle. The term has been applied in many ways. But overall, the definition is as follows.
It is a conscious, self-directed, and evolving process of achieving full potential. It is multidimensional, bringing together lifestyles both mental/spiritual and the environment in which one lives. It is positive and affirms that what we do is, in fact, correct.
It is an active process where people become aware and make choices towards a more successful lifestyle. This includes how a person contributes to their environment/community. They aim to build healthier living spaces and social networks. It helps in creating a person’s belief systems, values, and a positive world perspective.
Along with this comes the benefits of regular exercise, a healthy diet, personal self-care, and knowing when to seek medical attention. Dr. Jimenez’s message is to work towards being fit, being healthy, and staying aware of our collection of articles, blogs, and videos.
The American Heart Association, or the AHA, has had a consistent, long-standing focus towards providing the public with the necessary information regarding the role of nutrition reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Periodic AHA Dietary Guidelines�support a dietary pattern that promotes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, fish, legumes, poultry, and lean meats. An improper nutrition consisting of foods rich in saturated and trans fats, can raise the human body’s “bad” cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
How can vitamins improve the risk of cardiovascular disease?
The American Heart Association’s Dietary Guidelines can help with weight control as well as provide a high nutrient density to meet all nutritional needs.�As reviewed in the first AHA Science Advisory, epidemiological and population studies reported that some vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), may beneficially affect cardiovascular disease. Reducing the overall risk of cardiovascular disease�can be achieved by the long-term consumption of dietary patterns consistent with the AHA Dietary Guidelines. Vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), each perform a specific function in the prevention and improvement of CVD. The following are described in detail, below.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful water-soluble electron-donor. At physiologic levels, it is an antioxidant, although at supra-physiologic doses such as those achieved with intravenous vitamin C, it donates electrons to different enzymes in a pro-oxidative effect. At physiologic doses, vitamin C recycles vitamin E, improves ED and produces a diuresis. Intake of vitamin C and plasma ascorbate concentration in humans is related to heart rate, DBP and SBP.
A review of clinical trials suggest that vitamin C dosing in 250 mg twice daily will lower SBP 5-7 mmHg and diastolic BP 2-4 mmHg in more than 8 weeks. Vitamin C may give rise to a sodium water diuresis, enhance nitric oxide, improve endothelial function, increase nitric oxide and PGI2, decrease adrenal hormone production, improve sympathovagal balance, boost RBC Na/K ATPase, boost SOD, improve aortic elasticity and elasticity, enhance circulation conducive vaso-dilation, reduce pulse wave speed and augmentation index, raise cyclic GMP, trigger potassium channels, reduce cytosolic calcium and reduce serum aldehydes. Vitamin C prevents ED, decreasing the binding affinity of the AT 1 receptor for angiotensin II by disrupting the disulfide bridges, it enriches the antihypertensive effects of drugs and medications in the elderly with hypertension. In patients with hypertension already on maximum pharmacologic therapy, 600 mg of vitamin C lowered the BP in 20/16 mmHg. The lower the first ascorbate serum amount, the greater the blood pressure response. A serum level of 100 ?mol/L is recommended. The SBP and 24 ABM reveal the most important reductions with chronic oral administration of Vitamin C. Block et al within an elegant depletion-repletion study of vitamin C revealed an inverse correlation of plasma ascorbate levels, SBP and DBP. At a meta-analysis of thirteen clinical trials jointly with 284 patients, vitamin C in 500 mg/d in more than 6 weeks decreased SBP 3.9 mmHg and DBP 2.1 mmHg. Hypertensive individuals were found to have significantly lower plasma ascorbate levels in comparison with normotensive subjects (40 ?mol/L vs 57 ?mol/L respectively), and plasma ascorbate is inversely correlated with BP even in healthy, normotensive individuals.
Vitamin E
Most studies have not shown reductions in BP with most forms of tocopherols or tocotrienols.. Patients with T2DM and controlled hypertension (130/76 mmHg) on prescription drugs and medications with an average blood pressure of 136/76 mmHg were administered mixed tocopherols containing 60 percent gamma, 25 per cent delta and 15 percent alpha tocopherols. The BP really increased by 6.8/3.6 mmHg in the research patients (de < 0.0001) but was significantly less compared to this growth with alpha tocopherol of 7/5.3 mmHg (p< 0.0001). This might be a reflection of drug interactions with tocopherols via cytochrome P 450 (3A4 and 4F2) and reduction in the serum levels of the pharmacologic therapy treatments that were concurrently being granted to the patients. Gamma tocopherol could have natriuretic effects by inhibition of this potassium channel in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle and reduced BP. Insulin sensitivity improves and enhances adiponectin expression through gamma dependent procedures, which have the potential to serum glucose and lower BP. When vitamin E has an effect, it is most likely small and might be restricted to those with cardiovascular disease or untreated hypertensive patients or psychiatric problems, such as hyperlipidemia or diabetes.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D3 may have an independent and immediate role in the regulation of insulin metabolism and BP. Blood pressure, with its consequences, affects the RAA system, control of adrenal glands, immune system, calcium-phosphate metabolism and ED. The circulating PRA amounts are higher which increases angiotensin II if the vitamin D degree is below 30 ng/mL, increases BP and blunts plasma renal blood flow. The lower the degree of vitamin D, the greater the chance of hypertension, with the lowest quartile of serum Vitamin D with an incidence of hypertension in addition to the maximum quartile. Vitamin D3 markedly suppresses renin transcription. Its function in quantity, electrolytes and BP homeostasis indicates that Vitamin D3 is important in amelioration of hypertension. Vitamin D lowers ADMA, suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines for example TNF-?, raises nitric oxide, improves endothelial function and arterial elasticity, decreases vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy, modulates electrolytes and blood glucose, increases insulin sensitivity, reduces free fatty acid concentration, regulates the expression of the natriuretic peptide receptor additionally reduces HS-CRP.
The hypotensive effect of vitamin D has been inversely related to the pretreatment serum levels of 1,25(OH)2D3and additive to antihypertensive drugs and medications. Pfeifer et al revealed that supplementation with vitamin D3 and calcium is more effective in reducing SBP. In a study, 148 women with low 25(OH)2D3 levels, the management of 1200 mg calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D3 decreased SBP 9.3 percent more (p< 0.02) in comparison to 1200 mg of calcium alone. The HR fell 5.4 percent (p = 0.02), but DBP wasn’t changed. The scope in BP reduction was 3.6/3.1 to 13.1/7.2 mmHg. The reduction in BP is about serum level of vitamin D3, the dose of vitamin D3 and the level of vitamin D3, but BP is reduced only in patients. Although vitamin D deficiency is associated with hypertension in observational studies, their meta-analysis and randomized clinical trials have yielded inconclusive results. Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms may effect the risk of hypertension. A 25 hydroxyvitamin D level of 60 ng/mL is suggested.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Low serum vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) levels are linked to hypertension in several individuals. One research study conducted by Aybak et al demonstrated that blood pressure was significantly reduced by high dose vitamin B6 at 5 mg/kg daily for 4 wk by 14/10 mmHg. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is a cofactor in neurotransmitter and hormone synthesis in the central nervous system(norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, GABA and kynurenine), raises cysteine synthesis to neutralize aldehydes, improves the production of glutathione, blocks calcium channels, enhances insulin resistance, reduces central sympathetic tone and reduces end organ responsiveness to glucocorticoids and mineralo-corticoids. Vitamin B6 is decreased using pyrollactams and chronic therapy. Vitamin B6 has actions to diuretics alpha agonists and CCB’s. The proposed dose is 200 mg/d orally.
In conclusion, individuals with cardiovascular disease can benefit from the proper diet and nutrition. Essential vitamins found in the dietary patterns provided by the American Heart Association’s Dietary Guidelines can ultimately help reduce and prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as help improve overall heart health. An improper nutrition consisting of foods rich in saturated and trans fats can increase the prevalence of cardiovascular disease. While diagnosis and drugs/medications can be prescribed to treat cardiovascular disease, a balanced nutrition can have similar effects.� The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Losing Weight: Back pain is one of the most common and most troublesome problems that people experience. Eight out of 10 individuals will struggle with back pain during some point in their life, the US National Library of Medicine reports. Low and chronic back pain can be aggravated by many triggers. Mechanical stress, excessive strain, muscle weakness, poor sleeping position, lack of exercise and excessive weight could all contribute to making the situation worse.
The good news is that chiropractic ranks among the most popular and effective treatment options available today for back pain. Through the chiropractic adjustment, chiropractors not only help ease the pain but also work toward correcting the problem. According to chiropractors, spinal adjustments can deliver even better results when combined with weight loss.
In today�s article, we�ll exam the following:
How Obesity and Back Pain are Related
How Weight Loss Helps Reduce Back Pain
Improving Back Health through Chiropractic
How Obesity and Back Pain are Related
Individuals that are classified as overweight or obese are much more likely to experience back pain than people that aren�t according to the American Obesity Association.
Obesity prevents individuals from engaging in everyday physical activities, as well as healthy exercises. These are essential for strengthening the core muscles. A stronger core can take some of the burden away from the back, thus making back pain less likely.
In addition, the spinal cord becomes excessively burdened in the case of obese individuals. This is because it�s trying to compensate for the additional weight, which can cause tilting and uneven stress. Both of these can contribute to serious and chronic back pain. Thus the reason obesity is one of the most prominent aggravating factors in the case of lower back pain.
Losing Weight Helps Reduce Back Pain
According to weight loss experts and chiropractors, weight loss can contribute to partial or complete reduction in the back pain symptoms. The research on the connection between weight loss and back pain is still insufficient but numerous practitioners report that they�ve seen cases of patients experiencing serious reduction in pain after losing weight.
Obviously, this occurs because the extra weight is taken off the spine. As a result, the spine doesn�t experience further stress. Especially when a chiropractor realigns the vertebral column through multiple sessions of chiropractic adjustments.
According to the American Spine Society, individuals that stay within 10 pounds of their ideal weight are the ones least likely to experience spinal problems, particularly chronic lower back pain.
Improving Back Health through Chiropractic Care and Physical Activity
The combination of exercise and chiropractic care can produce noticeable, long-term improvements in spinal health.
Besides aiding in weight loss, exercise is also great for strengthening the core muscles and guaranteeing a proper distribution of the body�s weight throughout the spine. Stronger muscles, less weight and better posture will provide amazing long-term benefits for chiropractic patients that suffer from back pain.
If you need more pointers on how to incorporate weight loss and exercise in your daily routine, speak to your local chiropractor. He or she is more than competent to guide you along the way. If you aren�t currently seeing a chiropractor, give us a call. We�re here to help!
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
In today�s fast-paced society, we�re bombarded with various forms of stress that can wreck havoc on our immune systems. Chiropractors are particularly interested in helping their chiropractic patients overcome these stressors in order to maintain a healthy and balanced life. Outside of the chiropractic adjustment, let�s take a look at three nutritional tips that will help chiropractic patients boost their immune system.
Chiropractic patients� immune systems run their best when subluxations, also know as vertebral misalignments, are corrected. However, a proper diet can�t be ignored. By combining both forces, your immune system is better equipped to ward off many contaminants that try to invade the body through normal day-to-day activity.
Immune System: Nutritional Tip #1 � Get Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known for strengthening bones and teeth by helping the body absorb calcium. People who get too little vitamin D may develop soft, thin, and brittle bones, a condition known as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.
But did you know that it is also known to offer sufficient protection against a wide range of illnesses and chronic diseases like cancer? In addition, it improve’s the body’s natural response to bacterial infections like tuberculosis and helps to increase the production of antimicrobial peptides which are very important in boosting the immunity.
Since each patient�s health situation is different, ask your chiropractor how much vitamin D you need for optimal health.
Nutritional Tip #2 � Get Your Veggies
In culinary terms, vegetables are edible plants or their parts, intended for cooking or eating raw. You can quickly find what foods are in the vegetable group by visiting ChooseMyPlate.gov.
Vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli and Brussels (all from the brassica family) produce chemicals that are know to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and boost the body’s immune system. One great way to make sure you�re getting all of your vegetables for the day is through juicing. If you�re new to juicing, check out this great resource on juicing vegetables.
Nutritional Tip #3 � Avoid Alcohol
Most chiropractic patients are health-conscious. However, new chiropractic patients may be oblivious to the entire concept since our society is geared more toward sickness care instead of true healthcare. Regardless, maintaining a healthy diet is absolutely essential to maintaining a strong immune system. One way to do this is by avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption.
Why? Because research has proven that alcohol can cause immunodeficiencies that, in return, can make you more susceptible to tuberculosis, bacterial pneumonia and many other communicable diseases.
In addition, the use of alcohol is linked to cancer. Although many people in our society consume it for recreational purposes, it is important to note that alcohol is a drug that can poison your body and deplete you of essentials vitamins and minerals. Therefore, zero alcohol consumption translates into a super strong immune system.
If you need even more convincing, simply visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism�s website to learn more about alcohol facts and statistics.
To discover more nutritional tips that will help you build a stronger immune system, make sure you talk to your chiropractor. If you�ve never been to one, give us a call. We�d love to help guide you toward a more healthy lifestyle through safe and effective chiropractic care!
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
Since the original American Heart Association, or the AHA, Science Advisory was published in 1996, several fundamental new findings have been reported about the benefits of omega fatty acids on cardiovascular disease, CVD, particularly that of omega-3 fatty acids.�The evidence supporting the clinical benefits of omega fatty acids and CVD comes from a variety of research studies as well as randomized, controlled trials.
How are omega fatty acids beneficial for cardiovascular disease?
Large-scale epidemiologic studies suggest that people at risk for coronary heart disease, or CHD, benefit from consuming omega-3 fatty acids from plants and marine sources. Further research studies suggest that both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are most essential towards improving heart health, although omega-9 fatty acids also provide beneficial properties for individuals with CVD, CHD and hypertension.
Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids
The omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish, fish oils, flax, flax seed, flaxseed oil and nuts demonstrated they could lower blood pressure, or BP, obser-vational, epidemiologic and in prospective clinical trials The findings improved in response to hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
Studies indicate that DHA at 2 g/d reduces BP and heart rate. The reduction in BP is 8/5 mmHg and roughly 6 beats/min drops generally. Fish oil in 4-9 g/d or mix of DHA and EPA in 3-5 g/d may also lessen BP. However, the production of EPA and eventually DHA from ALA decreases in the presence of large LA (the crucial omega-6 fatty acid), saturated fats, trans fatty acids, alcohol, and several nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, vitamin B6) as well as aging, all of which inhibit the desaturase enzymes.) For reducing BP in hypertensive patients, eating cold water fish each week may be as effective as high dose fish oil, and the protein in the fish might provide additional beneficial effects. In patients with chronic kidney disease, for example, 4 g of omega-3 fatty acids decreased BP measured with 24 hours ABM over 8 weeks from 3.3/2.9 mmHg, compared to placebo (p < 0.0001).
The perfect ratio of omega-6 FA into omega-3 FA is between 1:1 to 1:4 with a polyunsaturated to saturated fat ratio greater than 1.5 to 2:0. ENOS while nitric oxide increases, improving function, enhancing insulin sensitivity to suppress ACE activity, reduce calcium spike and improve parasympathetic tone. The FA family includes GLA, LA, dihomo-GLA and AA, which generally do not considerably lower blood pressure, however, it might stop increases in BP. GLA can obstruct hypertension by reducing levels raising PGE1 and PGI2, reducing affinity and AT1R density.
The omega-3 FA possess a large number of additional effects that modulates reduction of ACE activity, growth in ED, reduction in plasma nor-epinephrine and boost in parasympathetic tone. Blood pressure, for instance, increases in nitric oxide and eNOS for the improvement of insulin resistance. The recommended daily dose is 3000 to 5000 mg/d of combined DHA and EPA in a ratio of 3 parts EPA to two parts DHA and roughly 50 percent of the dose as GLA along with gamma/delta tocopherol at 100 mg per gram of DHA and EPA to find the omega-3 index to 8 percent or higher to decrease BP and provide optimum cardioprotection. DHA is more effective than EPA and must be awarded at two g/d if administered independently.
Omega-9 Fatty Acids
Olive oil is abundant in the omega-9 monounsaturated fat (MUFA) lactic acid, that has been associated with BP and lipid decrease in Mediterranean diets and in other types of diets. MUFAs and olive oil show reductions in BP. In a single study, the SBP fell 8 mmHg (p? 0.05) and the DBP fell 6 mmHg (p? 0.01) at the practice and 24 hour ambulatory BP monitoring in the MUFA treated subjects compared to this PUFA handled issues. Additionally, the requirement for antihypertensive drugs was reduced by 48 percent in the MUFA group vs 4 per cent at the omega-6 PUFA group (de < 0.005).
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) was more powerful than sunflower oil in lowering SBP at a group of 31 elderly hypertensive patients in a double blind randomized cross-over study. The SBP has been 136 mmHg from the EVOO treated subjects vs 150 mmHg in the sunflower treated group (p < 0.01). Olive oil also reduces BP in diabetic subjects. It is the high oleic acid content in oil which reduces BP. In stageIhypertensive sufferers, oleuropein-olive leaf (Olea Eurpoaea) extract 500 mg bid for 8 wk decreased BP 11.5/4.8 mmHg which was similar to captopril 25 mg bid. Olea Eupopea L aqueous infusion administered to 12 patients using hypertension in 400 mg qid for 3 mo significantly reduced BP (p < 0.001). Oil ingestion in the EPIC study of 20343 subjects was associated with both systolic and diastolic BP. In sunlight analysis of 6863 areas, BP was inversely associated with olive oil consumption, but just in males. At doses of 500 to 1000 in comparison to placebo leaf extract demonstrated a dose response reduction in a study of 40 hypertensive twins.
The very low dose groups diminished BP 3/1 mmHg and the dose 11/4 mmHg. A double blind, randomized, crossover dietary intervention study over 4 mo using polyphenol rich olive oil 30 mg/d decreased BP in the study group by 7.91/6.65 mmHg and improved endothelial function. OxLDL, the ADMA levels and HS-CRP were decreased in the olive oil group. Plasma nitrites and nitrates improved and region after ischemia improved in the treated group. Jojoba oil exerts calcium channel antagonist impacts inhibits the receptor that is AT1R and enhances wave reflections and augmentation index. EVOO is also contains lipid-soluble phytonutrients such as polyphenols. Approximately 5 mg of phenols are found in 10 g of EVOO. About 4 tablespoons of EVOO is equivalent to 40 gram of EVOO that’s the overall necessary to get substantial reductions.
In conclusion, research studies and randomized, controlled trials,�have convincingly documented that omega fatty acids can significantly reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, CHD and hypertension. Additional clinical studies are needed to confirm the� benefits of omega fatty acids. A food-based approach to increasing omega-3-6-9 fatty acids is preferable, although supplements are a suitable alternative. Additional clinical and mechanistic studies are needed to confirm and further define the health benefits of omega fatty acids for both primary and secondary prevention.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Among the numerous risk factors which can lead to cardiovascular disease and hypertension, dietary and nutritional imbalances are among some of the most prevalent causes behind heart health issues, according to various research studies. While vitamin and mineral deficiencies have been commonly linked to the development of CVD and hypertension, other related compound deficiencies may be just as important towards heart health.
What’s the significance between amino acids and cardiovascular disease?
Many research studies have found a fundamental correlation between the proper intake of amino acids and cardiovascular disease, as well as the increased risk of hypertension. As previously discussed, protein plays a crucial role in almost all biological processes and amino acids are the building blocks of it.�A large proportion of our cells are made up of amino acids, meaning they carry out many important bodily functions, such as giving cells their structure as well as transporting and storing nutrients. Amino acids have an influence on the function of organs, glands, tendons and arteries.
Amino Acids for Cardiovascular Disease
Researchers believe that almost every disease is the result of imbalances to our metabolism and amino acids are mainly responsible for achieving a balanced metabolism.�The objective is that there is a complete amino acid content, maintained in the correct combination. If the one or more amino acids are not available in sufficient quantities, the production of protein is weakened and the metabolism may only function in a limited way. The following are several of the amino acids necessary to sustain overall health and wellness, improving the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
L-Arginine
L-arginine and endogenous methylarginines are the precursors for the production of NO, or nitric oxide, which has beneficial cardiovascular effects, mediated through conversion of L-arginine to nitric oxide, or NO from eNOS. Patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis have increased levels of HSCRP and inflammation, greater microalbumin, low levels of apelin (stimulates NO in the endothelium), elevated amounts of arginase (breaks down arginine) and increased serum levels of ADMA, which inactivates NO.
Under normal physiological conditions, intracellular arginine levels significantly exceed the Km of eNOS that is less than 5 ?mol. But, endogenous NO formation is dependent on extracellular arginine concentration. The intracellular concentrations of L-arginine are 0.1-3.8 mmol/L in endothelial cells while the plasma concentration of arginine is 80-120 ?mol/L that is about 20-25 times greater than the MMC. Despite this, mobile NO formation depends on exogenous L-arginine and this really is actually the paradox. Arginine can be a more powerful antioxidant and blocks the formation of endothelin, reduces renal sodium reabsorption and modulates BP. The NO production in endothelial cells is closely coupled to arginine uptake indicating that transport mechanics play a significant part in the regulation of function. Arginine can raise vascular and NO bioavailability and influence perfusion, function and BP. Molecular eNOS might occur in the absence of tetrahydrobiopterin which stabilizes eNOS, which leads to production of ROS.
Individual studies in hypertensive and normotensive subjects of L-arginine of parenteral and oral administrations demonstrate an antihypertensive effect as well as progress in coronary artery blood flow and peripheral blood circulation in PAD. The BP decreased by 6.2/6.8 mmHg on 10 g/d of L-arginine when provided as a nutritional supplement or even organic foods to a group of hypertensive subjects. Arginine produces a significant decrease in BP and improved impact in normotensive and hypertensive individuals that is comparable in magnitude to that plan. Arginine awarded in g/d also significantly reduced BP in women with gestational hypertension without proteinuria, decreased the demand for anti-hypertensive therapy, decreased maternal and neonatal complications and protracted the maternity. The combination of arginine (1200 mg/d) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) (600 mg bid) administered over 6 mo to hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes, lowered SBP and DBP (p < 0.05), greater HDL-C, diminished LDL-C and oxLDL, decreased HSCRP, ICAM, VCAM, PAI-I, fibrinogen and IMT. An analysis of 54 hypertensive subjects given grams three times every day for four weeks had significant reductions in 24 h ABM. A meta-analysis of 11 trials with 383 subjects administered arginine 4-24 g/d discovered average reduction in BP of 5.39/2.66 mmHg (p < 0.001) in 4 wk. Although these doses of L-arginine seem to be secure, no long term studies in humans have been released at this time and there are worries of a pro-oxidative influence or even an increase in mortality in individuals who might have severely dysfunctional endothelium, advanced atherosclerosis, CHD, ACS or MI. In addition to the path, there is an pathway that is connected to nitrates out of berries, beetroot juice along with the DASH diet which are converted into nitrites by salivary symbiotic, GI and oral bacteria. Administration of extract or beetroot juice at 500 mg/d improve endothelial function and lower BP, increases nitrites, increase peripheral, coronary and cerebral blood flow.
L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is a nitrogenous muscle. Animal studies suggest that carnitine has both hereditary anti-hypertensive effects and anti-oxidant consequences in the heart by up-regulation of both eNOS and PPAR gamma, inhibition of RAAS, modulation of NF-?B and down regulation of NOX2, NOX4, TGF-? and CTGF that reduces vascular fibrosis. While BP and cognitive stress are reduced, endothelial NO function and oxidative defense are improved.
Studies on the effects of L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine are limited. In patients with MS, acetyl-L-carnitine, improved dysglycemia and decreased SBP from 7-9 mmHg, but diastolic BP was significantly decreased only in people with sugar. Low amounts are correlated with a nondipping BP routine in Type 2 DM. Carnitine might be beneficial in the treatment of essential hypertension, type II DM with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, CHF and cardiac ischemic syndromes and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant results. Doses of 2-3 grams per day are recommended.
Taurine
Taurine is a sulfonic acid that is regarded as a conditionally-essential amino acid, which is not used in protein synthesis, but is located free or in easy peptides with its concentration in the brain, retina and myocardium. In cardiomyocytes, it has a role of inotropic factor, an osmoregulator and agent and reflects approximately 50 percent of the amino acids.
Human studies have noted that essential hypertensive subjects have reduced urinary taurine as well as other sulfur amino acids. Taurine lowers BP, SVR and HR, reduces arrhythmias, CHF symptoms and SNS activity, raises urinary sodium and water excretion, raises atrial natriuretic factor, improves insulin resistance, raises NO and improves endothelial function. Taurine also decreases A-II, PRA, aldosterone, SNS activity, plasma norepinephrine, plasma and urinary epinephrine, lowers homocysteine, enhances insulin sensitivity, kinins and acetyl choline responsiveness, reduces intracellular sodium and calcium, reduces reaction to beta receptors and has antioxidant, anti-atherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory activities, reduces IMT and arterial stiffness and may shield from risk of CHD. There is A urinary taurine associated with greater risk of CVD and hypertension. A study of 31 males with hypertension showed a 26 percent increase in taurine levels and also a 287 percent growth in cysteine levels. The BP reduction of 14.8/6.6 mmHg was proportional to increases in serum taurine and discounts in plasma norepinephrine. Fujita et al revealed a reduction in BP of 9/4.1 mmHg (p< 0.05) in 19 hypertension issues given 6 grams of taurine for 2 days. Taurine has numerous beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and BP. Taurine’s dose is 2 to 3 g/d at but doses around 6 g/d could be required to reduce BP.
In conclusion, amino acids, as well as proteins in this case, are ultimately essential towards improving cardiovascular disease and hypertension. As the essential building block of a majority of the human body’s biological processes, amino acids, as well as the proper consumption of protein, can help maintain a balanced metabolism in order to continue improving cardiovascular disease and hypertension. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Protein is an essential part of a balanced nutrition. The human�body utilizes protein to build and repair tissues. Protein is also used to make enzymes, hormones, and other fundamental body chemicals. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. However, for many individuals, the source of these proteins can often also be full of saturated fats, and too much of it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Can protein cause cardiovascular disease and hypertension?
Protein can be found in�chicken, pork, fish, beef, tofu, beans, lentils, yogurt, milk, cheese, seeds, nuts, and eggs. The issue with consuming some of these sources of protein that are rich in saturated fats as well is that such can increase the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), or in other words, the “bad” cholesterol. Increased levels of LDL cholesterol have been associated with cardiovascular disease and even hypertension. Research studies focusing on the connection between protein intake and CVD as well as hypertension have been conducted to reveal this correlation.
Protein & Cardiovascular Disease
Observational and epidemiologic studies have demonstrated a decrease in blood pressure, or BP, and a consistent association between a high protein consumption and incident BP. The protein source is an important element when it comes to the effect of blood pressure in the body; where animal protein has become less effective than non-animal or plant protein, especially that in almonds. At the Inter-Salt Study of over 10,000 subjects, individuals who have a dietary protein consumption of about 30 percent over the average had reduced BP by 3.0/2.5 mmHg compared to those that were 30 percent below the average. However, wild or lean animal protein with essential and less saturated fats and fatty acids may decrease CHD, lipids and BP risk.
A meta-analysis supported these findings and also indicated that hypertensive individuals and the elderly have the BP reduction with protein intake. Still another meta-analysis of 40 trials with 3277 patients found reductions in BP of 1.76/1.15 mmHg compared to carbohydrate consumption (p < 0.001). Both vegetable and animal protein significantly and equally reduced BP at 2.27/1.26 mmHg and 2.54/0.95 mmHg respectively. Dietary protein consumption is inversely related to risk for stroke. A randomized cross-over study in 352 adults with pre-hypertension and stageIhypertension found a significant decrease in SBP of 2.0 mmHg with soy protein and 2.3 mmHg with milk protein compared to a high glycemic index diet over each of the 8 wk treatment periods. A non-significant decrease has been in DBP. Another RDB parallel study over 4 weeks of 94 subjects with prehypertension and stageIhypertension found significant reductions on office BP of 4.9/2.7 mmHg in those given a combo of 25 percent protein intake vs the control group awarded 15 percent protein within an isocaloric manner. The protein consisted of pea , 20 percent soy, egg that is 30 percent and isolate. The daily recommended intake of nourishment from many sources is 1.0 to 1.5 g/kg body weight, varying with exercise level, age, renal function and other factors.
Fermented milk supplemented with whey protein concentrate reduces BP in. Administration of 20 g/d of hydrolyzed whey protein nutritional supplement rich in bioactive peptides significantly decreased BP more than 6 weeks from 8.0 � 3.2 mmHg in SBP and 5.5 � 2.1 millimeters in diastolic BP. Milk peptides, which equal caseins and whey proteins, are a rich source of ACEI peptides. Val-Pro-Pro and Ile-Pro-Pro awarded at 5 to 60 mg/d have varying reductions in BP using an average reduction in pooled studies of approximately 1.28-4.8/0.59-2.2 mmHg. Yet recent meta-analysis did not reveal significant reductions in BP in people. Powdered fermented milk using Lactobacillus helveticus given at 12 g/d significantly lowered BP from 11.2/6.5 mmHg in 4 weeks. A dose response study revealed reductions in BP. The response is attributed to fermented milk peptides which inhibit ACE.
Pins et al administered 20 g of whey protein that is hydrolyzed and noticed that a BP reduction of 11/7 mmHg compared to controls. Whey protein is successful in enhancing arterial stiffness, insulin resistance, glucose, lipids and BP. These data indicate that the protein must be hydrolyzed so as to exhibit an antihypertensive effect, and also the maximum BP reaction is dose dependent. Bovine peptides and whey peptides that are protein-derived exhibit ACEI activity. These components comprise B-caseins, B-lg B2-microglobulin, fractions and serum albumin. ACEI peptides are released by the hydrolysis of whey protein isolates. Marine collagen peptides (MCPs) from deep sea fish have anti-hypertensive activity. A double-blind placebo controlled trial in 100 hypertensive subjects with diabetes who received MCPs twice a day for 3 months had significant reductions in DBP and mean. Bonito protein (Sarda Orientalis), from the tuna and mackerel family has natural ACEI inhibitory peptides and reduces BP 10.2/7 mmHg in 1.5 g/d.
Sardine muscle protein, which contains Valyl-Tyrosine (VAL-TYR), significantly lowers BP in hypertensive subjects. Kawasaki et al treated 29 hypertensive subjects with 3 milligrams of VAL-TYR sardine muscle focused extract for four wk and reduced BP 9.7/5.3 mmHg (p < 0.05). Levels of aldosterone and A-Iincreased as serum A-II diminished suggesting that VAL-TYR is a ACEI. BP was considerably lowered in a study using a vegetable drink with protein hydrolysates in 13 weeks.
Soy protein reduces BP in patients in most studies. Soy protein consumption was inversely and significantly correlated with both DBP and SBP in 45694 Chinese girls or more of soy protein within 3 years and the association increased with age. The SBP decrease was 1.9 to 4.9 mm reduced and the DBP 0.9 to 2.2 mmHg lower. However, meta-analysis and trials have shown mixed results on BP to reductions of 7 percent to 10 percent for SBP and DBP with no change in BP. The current meta-analysis of 27 trials found a substantial reduction in BP of 2.21/1.44 mmHg. Some studies suggest improvement in ACEI activity, reduction in inflammation and HS-CRP, cognitive function arterial compliance, decrease in tone activity and reduction in both oxidative stress and levels. Fermented soy at roughly 25 g/d is suggested.
Besides ACEI consequences, protein consumption may also alter responses and induce a natriuretic. Low protein intake coupled with low omega 3 fatty acid intake can lead to hypertension in animal models. The perfect protein intake, based on degree of activity, renal function, stress and other factors, is about 1.0 to 1.5 g/kg daily.
In conclusion, protein is an important part of a balanced diet, however, leaner alternatives containing less amounts of saturated fats are ideal to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension, promoting overall health and wellness. Many individuals consume higher amounts of proteins than necessary. A healthcare professional specializing in diet and nutrition can help you come up with the best nutritional plan for your and your specific health concerns. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
An improper diet and nutrition can often lead to a variety of health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Additionally, other food-related risk factors can include, high blood pressure, or BP, obesity and type 2 diabetes. Saturated and trans fats, for example, can increase cholesterol in the blood. It’s this build-up of fatty deposits in the coronary arteries, which can lead to cardiovascular disease, hypertension and even heart attacks.
Which vitamins and minerals can improve cardiovascular disease and hypertension?
A healthy balance of vitamins and minerals can help manage and maintain heart health. According to research studies, the right intake of potassium, magnesium, calcium and zinc can substantially improve cardiovascular disease and hypertension. A proper diet and nutrition can have similar effects as taking cardiovascular disease and hypertension drugs and medications, but through a much more natural approach.
Potassium
The average U.S. dietary intake of potassium (K+) is 45 mmol/d with a potassium to sodium (K+/Na+) ratio of less than 1:2. The suggested intake of K+ is 4700 mg/d (120 mmol) with a K+/Na+ ratio of about 4-5 to 1. Several clinical and observational trials have demonstrated a substantial decrease in BP with greater K+ intake in hypertensive patients. The normal blood pressure reduction with a K+ supplementation of 60 to 120 mmol/d is 4.4/2.5 mmHg in hypertensive patients but may be as far as 8/4.1 mmHg with 120 mmol/d (4700 mg). In hypertensive patients, the linear dose response relationship is 1.0 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure, or SBP, and 0.52 mmHg decrease in diastolic blood pressure, or DBP, that a 0.6 g/d growth in dietary fiber intake. The solution can involve race (black > white), sodium, magnesium and calcium intake. Those on a higher sodium intake have a greater decrease in BP. Alteration of this K+/Na+ ratio is very important to the two polyunsaturated and outcomes. High potassium intake reduces the prevalence of cardiovascular disease independent of their BP reduction. Furthermore, If the serum potassium is less than 4.0 meq/dL, there is a higher risk of CVD mortality, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation. Red blood cell potassium is a sign of overall body stores and CVD risk in comparison to the serum potassium. Gu et al discovered that potassium supplementation in 60 mmol of KCl Daily for 12 wk significantly reduced SBP -5.0 mmHg (range -2.13 into -7.88 mmHg) (p < 0.001) in 150 Chinese men and women aged 35 to 64 decades.
Insulin raises natriuresis, modulates sensitivity, vasodilates, reduces the sensitivity to catecholamines and Angiotensin II, raises nitric oxide ATPase and DNA synthesis in the vascular smooth muscle cells and decreases sympathetic nervous system activity. In addition, potassium increases bradykinin and prostate kallikrein, decreases NADPH oxidase, which reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces ADMA, reduces intracellular sodium and reduces production of TGF-?.Each 1000 mg increase in potassium intake per day reduces all cause mortality by approximately 20 percent. Potassium intake of 4.7 g/d is estimated to decrease CVA by 8 percent to 15 percent and MI by 6 percent to 11 percent. Numerous SNP’s, such as nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C, angiotensin IItype receptor and hydroxysteroid 11 beta dehydrogenase (HSD11B1 and B2) determine an individual’s reaction to dietary potassium intake towards their overall health and wellness.
Each 1000 mg drop in sodium intake daily will reduce all cause mortality. A recent study indicated a dose related response to CVA. There has been a RRR of CVA of 23 percent at 1.5-1.99 gram, 27% at 2.0-2.49 g, 29 percent at 2.5-3 g and 32 percent more than 3 g/d of potassium urinary excretion. The recommended daily dietary intake for individuals with hypertension is 4.7 to 5.0 g of potassium and less than 1500 milligrams of sodium. Potassium used out of supplementation should be decreased with care in patients with renal impairment or those ARB, DRI and serum aldosterone receptor antagonists.
Magnesium
A high dietary intake of magnesium of at least 500-1000 mg/d reduces BP in the majority of the reported observational epidemiologic and clinical trials, but the outcomes are much less consistent than those seen with K + and Na +. There’s an inverse relationship between BP and dietary magnesium intake. A report on 60 essential hypertensive subjects given magnesium supplements showed a substantial decrease in blood pressure in an eight week interval reported by 24 h ambulatory BP, office and home BP. The maximum decrease in clinical trials has been 5.6/2.8 mmHg but some studies have shown no change in BP. The blend of high potassium and low sodium intake with increased magnesium intake had.
Magnesium also raises the effectiveness of all anti-hypertensive drugs and medications, according to research studies. Magnesium competes with Na+ for binding sites on vascular smooth muscle and also functions as a direct vasodilator, . Magnesium increases prostaglandin E (PGE), modulates intracellular sodium, potassium, calcium and pH, increases nitric oxide, improves adrenal function, reduces oxLDL, reduces HS-CRP, TBxA2, A-II, and norepinephrine. Magnesium also enhances insulin resistance, glucose and MS, binds at a necessary cooperative manner with potassium, causing EDV and BP reduction, reduces CVD and cardiac arrhythmias, reduces carotid IMT, reduces cholesterol, reduces cytokine production, inhibits nuclear factor Kb, reduces oxidative stress and inhibits platelet aggregation to reduce thrombosis. Magnesium is an essential co-factor because of its delta-6-desaturase enzyme that for conversion of linoleic acid (LA) to gamma linolenic acid (GLA) required for synthesis of this vasodilator and platelet inhibitor PGE1.
A meta-analysis of all 241378 patients utilizing 6477 strokes showed a reverse relationship of dietary magnesium to the incidence of stroke. For each 100 milligrams of magnesium intake, stroke diminished. The mechanism comprise inhibition of induced glutamate release, NMDA receptor blockade, CCB actions reduction in vasodilation and ATP depletion of the arteries. A meta-analysis showed discounts mmHg in 22 trials of 1173 patients. Intracellular level of calcium (RBC) is more indicative of overall body shops and should be quantified along with serum and urinary magnesium. Magnesium might be supplemented in doses of 500. Magnesium formulations may improve absorption and reduce the incidence of diarrhea. Adding taurine in 1000 increases the ramifications of magnesium. Magnesium supplements should be avoided or used with caution in individuals with renal insufficiency.
Calcium
Population studies reveal a link between hypertension and calcium, but clinical trials that handled calcium supplements have shown consequences on blood pressure. The heterogeneous responses to calcium supplementation have been clarified through research studies. This is really the “ionic hypothesis” of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and associated cognitive, cognitive and functional disorders. Calcium supplementation is not recommended at this time as an effective method to decrease blood pressure due to insufficient research studies on its use.
Zinc
Low serum zinc levels in observational research and hypertension correlate as well as CHD, type II DM, hyperlipidemia, elevated lipoprotein that a [Lp(a)], increased 2 h post-prandial plasma glucose levels and insulin resistance. Zinc is hauled to vascular and cardiac muscle and cells by metallothionein. Deficiencies of metallothionein with intramuscular zinc deficiencies can lead to cardiomyocyte oxidative stress , mitochondrial dysfunction, dysfunction and apoptosis with cardiac remodeling hypertension, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, or fibrosis. Intracellular calcium increases oxidative.
Bergomi et al assessed Zinc (Zn++) status in 60 hypertensive subjects compared to 60 normotensive control subjects. A reverse correlation of serum Zn++ and BP has been observed. The BP was inversely associated with a Zn++ dependent enzyme lysyl oxidase activity. Zn++ inhibits gene expression and transcription through NF-?Band activated protein-1 and is now a significant co-factor for SOD. These impacts plus those on insulin resistance and SNS consequences, membrane ion exchange, RAAS might account for Zn++ antihypertensive effects. Intake needs to be 50 mg/d.
Individuals with cardiovascular disease and hypertension can benefit from the proper diet and nutrition. Essential vitamins and minerals found in a balanced, healthy nutrition, such as potassium, magnesium, calcium and zing, among others, can help improve heart health. Deficiencies in these and a diet full of saturated and trans fats can increase the prevalence of cardiovascular disease. While diagnosis and drugs/medications can be prescribed to treat cardiovascular disease and hypertension, a balanced diet and nutrition can have similar effects.� The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
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