Did You Know...

The best way to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs is from the food you eat. However, today’s varied hectic lifestyles combine poor nutrition from processed and convenience foods, meals forgone, daily activity, academics, athletic exertion, modified diets for slimming and diet variations. Since most people don’t eat properly when under stress, this can cause vitamin and energy depletion resulting in anxiety, depression, insomnia and tiredness, stomach upset, a variety of nervous ailments and frequent colds, viral infections and other diseases. These factors may mean inadequate nutrition through our diet.

Most people need to take additional vitamin and mineral supplements. You should never take extra vitamins and minerals without talking to your doctor first. However, your doctor may suggest taking extra vitamins or minerals based on your lifestyle or if you have certain problems. You also may need more vitamins and minerals at certain times in your life, such as the following:

There are a number or risk factors that make one more susceptible to heart disease such as: smoking, high blood pressure, a high fat /cholesterol diet, diabetes and obesity. The early warning signs of a heart attack are: discomfort in the chest; pain in the arms, jaw or neck; shortness of breath; cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness.

You can help maintain a healthy heart by eating a diet high in fiber, low in processed foods; reducing your blood cholesterol; following a healthy lifestyle; and taking a good vitamin and mineral supplement.
 

Omega 3, 6, 9
Omega fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats. They are healthier than saturated fats and have many metabolic functions. The Omega 3, 6 and 9 groups of fatty acids all contain essential fatty acids necessary for good health.

Omega 3
The most important fatty acids in the Omega 3 family are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as these are in limited supply and only found in any real quantities in oily fish and fish oil supplements. Although DHA is important for pregnant, nursing mothers and young children for healthy development of the brain and vision, EPA can be considered the most important for everyone else as it is necessary for the efficient functioning of the brain and the body at a cellular level.

The Omega 3's have anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant properties as well as many other important health benefits. They reduce inflammation and can provide protection against cardiovascular disease, arthritis, skin conditions, depression and other mood-related disorders.

Omega 6
Although Omega 6 is generally classed as pro-inflammatory, paradoxically, Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), when sourced dietetically, has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help the bloating and pain associated with PMS. It also maintains healthy skin, hair, nails and generally helps to bring about hormonal and emotional balance.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 interact with each other so the balance between them is crucial for good health. Together they affect the production of hormonal type messengers called eicosanoids, which has an impact on inflammation in the body and all functions at a cellular level.

Omega 9
Omega 9 also has many preventative qualities as its main component, Oleic acid, helps to reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke. Borage oil contains both Omega 6 and Omega 9 in the form of Gamma-linolenic acid and Oleic acid and is in fact, one of the best sources of GLA.

Benefits of Omega 3 6 9

There are many benefits of omega 3 6 9 supplementation.

Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids (EFA’s). Our bodies cannot manufacture them, and we must consume them in our diets. Omega 9 fatty acids are not essential. Our bodies need omega 9 fats, but we can manufacture them from other sources.

Omega 3 fatty acids prevent heart disease and the complications of heart attack. People who take omega 3 fatty acids have a lower mortality rate after heart attack than those who do not.

Omega 3 EFA’s improve cardiac risk factors, and help prevent Chronic Heart Disease. They normalize lipid levels, lower blood pressure and improve glucose metabolism.

Omega 3’s may be helpful in a number of other conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, depression, and autism. They are necessary for growth and development, especially in the development of nervous tissue, and may improve cognitive function and emotional health.

Omega 6 fatty acids compete for enzymes with omega 3 EFA’s, so the amounts of the two need to be properly balanced. Less research has been done on omega 6 EFA’s than on omega 3’s. Most omega 6 fatty acids produce an inflammatory response that may be necessary for healthy immune system function. Research is beginning to indicate that one omega 6 EFA is, however, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, and may be even more important for healthy hearts than omega 3 oils.

Omega 9, as mentioned, is not an essential fatty acid. Omega 9 oils are monounsaturated, and are found in olive oil. Olive oil is known to have beneficial health effects, and omega 9 oils may be necessary for healthy immune system functioning.

The benefits of omega 3 6 9 include all of the benefits of all three types of fatty acid. The amounts and ratios of each fatty acid are balanced to optimal levels of each. Taking an omega 3 6 9 supplement is a good way to ensure that you are getting essential nutrients for your good health. Jamieson™ Natural Sources Omega Protect™ Omega 3-6-9 is an excellent balanced source of omega 3 6 9.

A recent study indicates that half of all men in their 60s have symptoms of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH). Enlarged prostate is thought to be caused by an increase in the conversion of testosterone of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostrate. Some symptoms of BPH include: frequent urination, a feeling of fullness after urination and a weak urinary stream.

Saw Palmetto Extract (SPE) has been in traditional herbal medicine for the prevention and relief of problems associated with the prostate gland. Although the active ingredient in SPE has not been identified, it is known to be found only in the lipophilic extract. In other words, the active ingredients could not be found in teas or other water soluble forms.

The mechanism of action of SPE has not been clearly identified, but recent research has shed some light on the subject. It appears that Saw Palmetto Extract prevents BHP by interfering with the process of testosterone metabolism which can cause the enlargement.

In a paper found in the February 1999 edition of the journal Prostate, saw palmetto was found to noncompetitively inhibit agonist binding to alpha1-adrenoceptors and prevent the formation of [3H]inositol. Another paper in the May 2000 edition of the Journal of Urology noted that use of SPE led to epithelial contraction and possibly shrinkage of the gland and blockage of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme within the prostate. However, SPE does not effect PSA level, and this would suggest another mechanism in countering the effects of DHT. Talpur et al. in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry concluded that SPE decreases the rate of DHT formation and blocks the ability of DHT to bind to target cells, preventing the action of the hormone. Some other proposed mechanisms of action include alteration in cholesterol metabolism and a decrease in available sex-hormone binding globulin. SPE has been shown to reduce prostate inflammation and pain, thus may have a potent anti-inflammatory action. This may be achieved through a dose-related blockade of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. Furthermore, inhibition of prolactin and growth factor may be another protective effect of an enlarged prostate by saw palmetto. The latest proposed mechanism of action by Wadsworth et al. in 2004 is that SPE may inhibit specific components of the Insulin Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I) signaling pathway and induce c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK)/stress-activated protein kinase pathway activation, resulting in antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects on prostate epithelia due to IGF-I's importance in prostate growth and development. Accumulating evidence suggests that dysregulation of the IGF-I system is involved in the pathogenesis of human BPH.

More recently, in vitro studies performed by Wadsworth et al. suggested that SPE inhibits growth of prostate cancer cell lines in culture, and therefore may possess chemopreventative potential.

The ingredients in Jamieson™ Natural Sources Prostease™ Saw Palmetto Complex includes SPE, Pygeum Extract, Pumkin Seed Oil and Cranberry Fruit which have all been and are still used in traditional herbal medicine for the prevention and relief of problems associated with the prostate.

Fig.3 Osteoporosis

Fig. 4 Osteoarthritis
 

Most people think that Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis affect only ‘older people’. The reality is that persons may begin to experience symptoms as early as age 35. By age 20, you would have built 90% of your skeletal structure. Therefore, taking care of your bone health is a process that should begin in the most formative years. For post menopausal women ensuring that you receive the calcium you need is vital.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are naturally occurring substances that assist your body in rebuilding and repairing damaged or disintegrating cartilage Jamieson™ Natural Sources Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex supports strong, healthy and flexible joints, bones, and cartilage.

Cholesterol reducing drugs (Statins) have been associated with Heart Failure. "Statins" are a class of drugs that lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood by reducing the production of cholesterol by the liver. Statins are now recommended for all patients with established coronary disease.

Scientifically, statins are referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. The statin drugs work to reduce blood lipid levels by inhibiting production of the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, which is involved in the manufacture of cholesterol from acetyl-CoA in the liver. However, this also affects the biosynthesis of mevalonate, which is a precursor to ubiquinone (CoQ10). Since CoQ10 plays a critical role in maintaining normal functioning of the heart, any benefit of statin use related to the reduction of cholesterol levels can be offset if there is a concurrent reduction in plasma levels of CoQ10 which leads to a reduction in mitochondrial energy production and weakened immune system.

Health Conditions Related To Use Of Statin Drugs:
Congestive Heart Failure

The decrease in CoQ10 blood levels caused by statin therapy diminishes the energy output of heart muscle cells leading to cardiomyopathy or congestive heart failure. A mysterious rise in the incidence of heart failure has been noted in the U.S. in recent years which may well relate to the continually increasing use of statin drugs.

Increased Muscle Weakness
Weakness of muscles when taking statin drugs probably relates to decreased muscle cell energy production caused by diminished levels of CoQ10. Hypercholesterolaemic individuals may experience muscle pain, weakness, fatigue, irritability and memory problems when taking statins.

Decreased Levels of Antioxidants
Decreasing one's anti-oxidant stores in the blood is obviously undesirable as this means that our ability to remove free radicals will be impaired.

Greater Incidence of Peripheral Neuritis
The cause for peripheral neuritis is often obscure. The incidence of peripheral neuritis is 15 times greater in persons taking statin drugs than in control subjects. This could also relate to deficiency of CoQ10.

Increased Risk of Stroke
Stroke risk goes up when cholesterol values are lowered below 140 mg. Dr. Gilbert Gordon suggests keeping cholesterol values near 220 mg. to preserve the natural antioxidant benefits of cholesterol for the body.

Increased Risk of Cancer
Certainly some of this increase in cancer incidence could be due to the rapidly increasing statin drug usage. Knowing that CoQ10 is a fine therapy for cancer suggests that lowering the levels of CoQ10 with statin drugs might increase the risk of cancer.

Hyperinsulinemia
Rise in fasting insulin values by 13 percent is seen after statin therapy is started. This is undesirable because high levels of insulin increase the construction of arteriosclerotic plaques over time.
Also high insulin values accelerate the rate of development of both diabetes and aging.

CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring nutrient molecule present in the mitochondria (cellular organelle) of all cells in the body. This nutrient is essential for its role in the electron transport system, also known as the body’s bioenergetics. It is this system that provides the energy required by each cell to both survive and function effectively. The cells of the heart are particularly abundant in CoQ10, because of the high demand for energy production that is required to help the heart muscle beat and efficiently pump blood throughout the body.

The benefits of CoQ10 are due to the following attributes:

It is necessary for the production of energy in all cells of the body.

It is an important fat-soluble antioxidant that is unequally able to protect the cells’ mitochondria from free radical damage.

CoQ10 levels are also reported to decrease with age and to be low in patients with some chronic diseases such as heart conditions, muscular dystrophies, Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS.

Supplementation with CoQ10 is essential with long-term statin therapy to help prevent depletion of this essential nutrient, and also works without interfering with the cholesterol-lowering action of these drugs.

Jamieson™ Natural Sources CoQ10 is formulated from natural sources and is pharmaceutically tested to guarantee full potency and absolute clinical purity.

Niacin
Niacin (nicotinic acid, vitamin B3) is a part of the normal diet that is essential to various chemical reactions in the body. It is used medically to treat individuals with deficiency of niacin.

Niacin is a generic term for both nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (niacinamide). Also referred to as Vitamin B3, it is a member of the B Complex Vitamins. After ingestion and absorption niacin functions as an enzyme cofactor for many metabolic redox reactions in the body such as improving glucose, lipid and sterol metabolism. It also supports cardiovascular heart health.

In addition to its well known metabolic roles, niacin has also been proven to be effective in the nicotinic form as a therapeutic agent for reducing cholesterol (lowering LDL, VLDL and tryglyceride, while raising HDL – the good cholesterol). The dosage for this treatment is higher than that usually consumed in the diet or found in a multi vitamin/mineral supplement. However, when using plain niacin in such dosages, people usually experience a temporary flushing and itchiness of the skin, a normal, nonallergic but uncomfortable reaction that occurs due to the dilation of the capillaries, which increases blood circulation. The niacinamide form of niacin does not induce the flushing reaction, however it is also not effective for lowering cholesterol.

After ingestion, the molecule is hydrolyzed in the body to free niacin and inositol, allowing both to function in reducing cholesterol levels in the body. Inositol by itself is also used therapeutically to reduce cholesterol, triglyceride levels thereby decreasing dependence on statins and increases HDL cholesterol to support overall cardiovascular health. It improves circulation throughout the body, helps release energy from carbohydrates, and helps to regulate blood glucose levels.

Niacin has been successfully combined with statin drugs to reduce cholesterol more effectively than using these drugs without niacin.

Levels of Niacin in the body can be increased by taking Niacin supplements. Jamieson™ Natural Sources Jamieson Niaplex 95 contains niacin in the inositol nicotinate form. It does not cause the flushing reaction and is proven to reduce cholesterol.

Combination Therapy Jamieson™ Natural Sources Jamieson Niaplex 95 & CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is produced by the human body and is necessary for the basic functioning of cells. Your body cannot manufacture CoQ10 without the presence of B3 niacin, folic acid, & pyridoxine (B6).

Combination nutritional supplementation of Jamieson™ Natural Sources Jamieson Niaplex 95 & CoQ10 is recommended to reverse adverse reactions and side effects for all individuals prescribed statins and support cardiovascular health.