How I discovered 10 amazing super foods
Edited by Super Foods boy and partially published on http://blog.organicbeautyfood.com
Exclusive literature used for a Beauty Foods Workshop hosted at Lifefood Gourmet, in Miami.
I have collected information for a long time about the magic and benefits of those foods from which one only needs small amount to provide the body with the minimum recommended intake of minerals & nutrients, Super Foods. Most of the foods listed below are available at the natural health store down the street from you, but you can order online at http://shop.organicbeautyfood.com
I am not a doctor, so don't take this text as the total truth. Each individual may respond different to these foods.
I am happy to present below some of the "medications" that your doctor will rarely prescribe:
10 SUPERFOODS
1. Blue-Green Algae, Spirulina and Chlorella: Blue-green micro algae, and its cousins spirulina and chlorella, grow on inland waters throughout the world.This primordial food is visible as greenish scum on still lakes and ponds. The Aztecs ate it as a staple food, dried and spread on tortillas. Africans of the Sahara region also use dried spirulina with grains and vegetables. These algae are high in protein, carotenoids and minerals. Beware, however, of claims that they can provide vitamin B12 in vegetarian diets. Nevertheless, the high mineral and protein content of the various algae make them an excellent super food, a good supplement to the diet and a useful product for the treatment of a variety of health problems.
2. Bee Pollen: Bee pollen has been popularized by famous athletes who take it regularly for strength and endurance. It has been used successfully to treat a variety of ailments including allergies, asthma, menstrual irregularities, constipation, diarrhea, anemia, low energy, cancer, rheumatism, arthritis and toxic conditions. A Russian study of the inhabitants of the province of Georgia, where many live to 100 years and a few to age 150, revealed that many of these centenarians were beekeepers who often ate raw, unprocessed honey with all its "impurities," that is, with the pollen. Bee pollen contains 22 amino acids including the eight essential ones, 27 minerals and the full gamut of vitamins, hormones and fatty acids. Most importantly, bee pollen contains more than 5,000 enzymes and coenzymes. It is the presence of enzymes, many of which have immediate detoxifying effects, that sometimes provokes allergic reactions in those taking bee pollen for the first time. If this happens, start with very small amounts and slowly build up to a tablespoon or so per day. Some brands are more easily tolerated than others. Avoid pollen that has been dried at temperatures higher than 130 degrees. Bee pollen can be taken in powder, capsule or tablet form.or in raw unprocessed honey mixed with cereal or spread on toast.
3. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. This energy tonic contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and E, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in:
Vitamin C which helps maintain tone of blood vessels and promotes good circulation and is essential to the health of the adrenal gland which supports our body in times of stress.
Amino acids which are chains of atoms constructing protein in our body.
Enzymes, which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin.
Germanium which is a mineral that some health authorities claim therapeutic benefits for: immunodeficiency, pain, cardiac disorders, circulatory disturbances and eye problems.
4. Garlic: Garlic is one of the earth's greatest health tonics and does indeed have scientifically-proven medicinal properties. It contains a substance called Allicin, which has anti-bacterial properties that are equivalent to a weak penicillin. It is a natural antibiotic and is useful in treating everything from allergies to tonsillitis. Garlic contains many sulfur compounds which:
detoxify the body
boost the immune system
lower blood pressure
improve circulation.
Garlic has also demonstrated anti-cancer, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant effects.
Garlic: Garlic has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help scavenge free radicals; particles that can damage cell membranes, interact with genetic material and possibly contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of conditions including heart disease and cancer.
Free radicals occur naturally in the body but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles. Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause over time.
Garlic can stimulate the production of glutathione, an amino acid which is known to be a very potent antioxidant and de-toxifier and the smooth muscle relaxant adenosine, also found in the herb, will lower blood pressure.
Today people use garlic to help prevent atherosclerosis (plaque build up in the arteries causing blockage and possibly leading to heart attack or stroke), reduce colds, coughs and bronchitis.
Garlic has been used to treat:
Atherosclerosis: Studies suggest that fresh garlic and garlic supplements may prevent blood clots and destroy plaque. Blood clots and plaque block blood flow and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Blockage of blood flow to the heart, brain and legs, can lead to heart attack, stroke, or peripheral vascular disease (PVD). People with PVD experience pain in the legs when they walk and move. If garlic does reduce the build up of plaque then strokes, heart attacks and PVD may be less likely to occur in people who eat garlic or take garlic supplements.
High Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure: A number of studies have found that garlic reduces elevated total cholesterol levels and lowers blood pressure more effectively than placebo. However, the extent to which garlic is effective is small.
Diabetes: Garlic has been used as a traditional dietary supplement for diabetes in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Preliminary studies in rabbits, rats and limited numbers of people have demonstrated that garlic has some ability to lower blood sugars. More research in this area is needed. (See Notes regarding some concern about using garlic with certain diabetes medications.)
Common Cold: A well-designed study of nearly 150 people supports the value of garlic for preventing and treating the common cold. In this study, people received either garlic supplements or placebo for 12 weeks during "cold season" (between the months of November and February). Those who received the garlic had significantly fewer colds than those who received placebo. Plus, when faced with a cold, the symptoms lasted a much shorter time in those receiving garlic compared to those receiving placebo.
Cancer: Test tube and animal studies suggest that garlic may have some anti-cancer activity. Observational, population-based studies (which follow groups of people over time) suggest that people who have more raw or cooked garlic in their diet are less likely to have certain types of cancer, particularly colon and stomach cancers. Dietary garlic may also offer some protection against the development of breast, prostate and laryngeal (throat) cancers. However, these types of cancer have not been as extensively studied as colon and stomach cancer.
Tuberculosis: Numerous test tube studies have demonstrated that garlic extract inhibits the growth of different species of bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the organism responsible for tuberculosis. Very high concentrations of garlic extract were needed to slow down the growth of M. tuberculosis in these studies, so some experts are concerned that these levels may be toxic to people. While further research in people is needed, one animal study found that garlic oil also inhibited M. tuberculosis and reduced lesions in the lungs of these animals.
Intestinal Parasites: Laboratory studies suggest that large quantities of fresh, raw garlic may have antiparasitic properties against the roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, which is the most common type of intestinal parasite. Garlic for this purpose, however, has not yet been tested in people.
Important Note:
Garlic can irritate the digestive tracts of very young children and some sources don't recommend garlic for breast feeding mothers. In addition, some individuals are allergic to garlic.
5. Hempseed oil or Black Currant Oil: These oils contain a fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, which the body produces from omega-6 linoleic acid by the action of special enzymes. In many individuals the production or effectiveness of this enzyme is compromised, especially as they grow older. These oils have been shown to increase liver function and mental acuity. Malnutrition, consumption of hydrogenated oils and diabetes inhibit the conversion of omega-6 linoleic acid to GLA.
GLA-rich oils have been used to treat:
cancer
premenstrual syndrome
breast disease
scleroderma
colitis
irritable bowel syndrome
cystic fibrosis
6. Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3s. Just 1 teaspoon contains about 2.5 grams, equivalent to more than twice the amount most people get through their diets. Flaxseeds also contain omega-6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid; omega-6s are the same healthy fats found in vegetable oils.
One of the EFAs in flaxseed oil, alpha-linolenic acid, is known
Xango, Mangosteen Juice – the Miracle Food Supplement
Xango was introduced to me by my friend in the Philippines. He shared with me that this mangosteen juice contains a lot of nutrients more potent than Vitamin E and Vitamin C. So my wife and I tried it. Here are some interesting benefits that we derived from drinking it:
My wife has insomnia, after drinking mangosteen juice (2 ounces twice a day) for 2 days, she's already asleep by 11:30 pm.I usually have migraine in the afternoon, after drinking mangosteen juice (2 ounces twice a day) for 4 days, I am totally headache free.
I was so amazed with the results so I did some readings and research. Here's what I found:
Mangosteen has been used by traditional practitioners of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines and Africa for its varied medicinal applications. These applications include:
antimicrobial agenttreatment for skin diseasesanti-inflammatory agentanalgesic (pain reliever)antidiarrheal treatmentgastrointestinal aid
Dr. J. Frederick Templeman, a primary care physician, board certified in the US & Canada, with over 20 years clinical experience and a medical director of Phytoceutical Research states that the human body is a remarkable creation, capable of caring for and repairing itself - but only if it receives the necessary nutrients (raw materials) to do so. When a state of disequilibrium occurs, we can only assist the body in its efforts to restore optimal health.
There are a variety of measures we can utilize to help our bodies recover from illness. Improved diet, stress relief, and increased physical activity are a few things that can make a tremendous difference in our state of health. Sometimes even these are not enough.
Supplementation also plays a critical role in assisting the body to both prevent and combat disease. Which supplements should we take? Well, each of our bodies is different, so each of our needs is slightly different as well. If you think of your body as own personal laboratory, and you "experiment" with different supplements to achieve better health, you will soon be able to determine which products your body can use most effectively.
Dr. Templeman feels that natural supplements offering the broadest range of phytonutrients to the body are those you should consider first. In this regard, the mangosteen fruit possesses a wide range of phytonutrients, including xanthones. But xanthones are only half the story. The fruit also contains catechins and proanthocyanidins, both classes of polyphenols shown to have great nutritional value for the body. Mangosteen also possesses polysaccharides and sterols, two groups of compounds also thought to possess a variety of potential health benefits.
Dr. Templeman adds: "If you are in poor health, or are simply looking to lower your risk of disease, I encourage you to experiment with the mangosteen fruit in the laboratory of your own body to determine how it will put this amazing fruit to use."
In addition to what I've learned, the bulk of the nutrients comes from the pericarp or rind of the mangosteen fruit.
Here are some interesting research and results of preclinical studies which provide the evidence that these nutrients can be used by the body:
Atherosclerosis. Cathecin research on mangosteen has demonstrated the following in the area of atherosclerosis (the process of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium and fibrin (a clotting material in the blood) building up in the inner lining of an artery. The buildup that results is called plaque.):
Decreased liver production of LDL and VLDL (bad cholesterol)Protection of the LDL molecule from free radical damage (antioxidant effect more potent that Vitamin C)Decreased amount of absorption and digestion of dietary factsNormalization of endothelial cell function in the artery so that adhesion substances are not formedInhibition of the growth factors that cause smooth muscle cells in the walls of arteries to grow abnormally and form plaqueInhibition of bacterial proliferation in the mouth that leads to gum disease and the possible infection of arterial plaqueDampening of the inflammatory response, which leads to plaque rupture and triggers the coagulation cascade that produces the deadly blood clotInhibition of thrombin-induced clot information (the coagulation cascade)Xanthone research has revealed the following properties:
Antioxidant activity (surpassing that of Vitamin E) that protects LDL particles from free radical damage in laboratory studiesAntibacterial action to prevent the infection of plaquesAnti-inflammatory activity capable of dampening the inflammation, which can lead to plaque rupture
Proanthocyanidin research has revealed the following properties:
Antioxidant activity to protect LDL particles from free radical damageAntibacterial effectsNormalization of endothelial vasolidatory function in the arteries through the increased production of Nitric oxideAntithrombotic (anticlotting) effectAnti-inflammatory effect to lessen the probability of plaque ruptureRegulation of adhesion molecule production by endothelial cells
Sterol research has revealed the following properties:
Normalization of lipid production to prevent the excessive formation of LDL
Polysaccharide research has revealed the following properties:
Antibacterial effect
Cancer. Cathecin research in the area of cancer has revealed:
Protection of DNA from damage by free radicals and other mutagensRepair of damaged DNA before cancer beginsInhibition of the inappropriate production of growth factors which promote cancerInhibition of the proteolytic enzymes, which cancerous cells produce to invade normal tissue and to mestatasizeProtection of skin from UV damageInhibition of the production of pro-inflammatory mediators which promote cancer growthChemoprotection (by unelucidated mechanisms) from many different types of cancerAnti-tumor effect by the induction of apoptosis or cell death in cancer cells
Xanthone research in the area of cancer has revealed:
Protection of DNA from damage by free radicalsInduction of apoptosis (cell suicide) in tumor cells of several types of cancerAnti-tumor efficacy (in vitro) of garcinone E (a mangosteen xanthone), surpassing the effect of five commonly utlized chemotherapy agents
Proanthocyanidin research in the area of cancer has shown:
Inhibition of the production of protein-dissolving agents produced by cancer cells to invade normal tissue and to metastasize
Inflammation. The body's non-specific response to virtually all insults (such as infection, trauma, radiation damage, allergen irritation, etc.) is inflammation. Characterized by swelling, redness, heat and pain, most inflammation is short-lived and an important part of the healing process. However, too often inflammation does not shut off when it should and can continue for weeks, months, or years (chronic inflammation). When this occurs, the inflammation itself (which can be painless and therefore silent) becomes a serious health threat.
Although not a disease per se, chronic inflammation has been implicated in the development of many health problems including cancer, arthritis, diabetes, skin disorders, heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases (such as MS, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's), lung disease, inflammotory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), ulcers, gastritis, GERD, allergy, kidney failure and even psychiatric disorders like depression, autism and schizophrenia. And this list is not complete because other illnesses have been shown to involve inflammatory states as greater or lesser causatory or exacerbating factors.
Cathecin research in the area of inflammation shows:
Ability to chelate iron and copper, two metals frequently involved in the production of free radicalsExcellent antioxidant activity that even exceeds the antioxidant power of vitamin C
Xanthone research in the area of inflammation shows:
Antioxidant capability which exceeds that of vitamin EAll 43 mangosteen xanthones have antioxidant capabilityThe capability of blocking the most common inflammatory cascade (arachadonic acid to prostaglandin E2) at the genetic level (COX-2 blockade)Antioxidant effect in an animal experiment that equaled the power of the drug dexamethasone and exceeded the effect of the drug Indomethacin
Proanthocyanidin research in the area of inflammation shows:
Effective inhibition of the proinflammatory enzyme COX-2 (again at the level of the COX-2 gene)The ability to inhibit the formation of copper-linked free radicalsChemoprotective effects on cells threatened with inflammatory damage
(Ref. - Mangosteen, the gift your body deserves by J. Frederic Templeman, M.D.)
The above mentioned illnesses are only a few of what mangosteen can do and help our body. You may do your own research by searching mangosteen in the internet or you may visit http://www.mangosteenmd.com.
To sum it up: XanGo (Xangosteen in Singapore) juice is a food supplement that has an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-tumor and cancer prevention properties. It also strengthens the body's immune system. Backed by research, and experiences/success stories of doctors and ordinary people, http://www.mangosteenexperiences.com.
Should you need more information, visit http://www.mangosteen.sawit.net
Soy ? Panacea or Poison
Soy “stops cancer and baldness” (1)
“Soy foods can stimulate the growth of oestrogen-dependent tumours and cause thyroid problems.” (7)
“Boosting your Soy intake could reduce your risk of breast cancer.” (5)
“A British Government report concluded that there is little evidence that soy foods protect against breast cancer or any other forms of cancer. In fact, soy foods may result in an increased risk of cancer.” (8)
Confused?
This article on soy will examine the following:
- History of the humble soy bean
- It’s role in the Asian diet
- It’s role in the Western diet - where is it lurking
- Critical questions regarding its safety
- The guinea pigs
Soy Beginnings The soy plant was initially used as ‘green manure’ or a cover crop plowed under to enrich the soil, and it became known to the Chinese as ‘the yellow jewel’. Soy did not become human food till late in the Chou Dynasty (1134-246 BC), after the Chinese developed a process of fermentation to make it into soy paste, called miso, with the run-off liquid called soy sauce. Tofu came after miso and in Japan, and China it was rarely served as a main course except in monasteries where it was eaten with miso or fish stock. Around 1000 A.D fermented soy foods, natto and tempeh entered the food supply. Modern soy products such as soy-protein isolate and concentrate made using highly processed methods were unknown in Asia till after World War II. Furthermore neither soy milk nor infant formula is traditional in Asia. The first person to manufacture soy milk was actually an American missionary and physician Harry Miller. “Claims that soybeans have been a major part of the Asian diet for more than 3,000 years, or ‘time immemorial’ are simply not true.” (6)
Soy in the Asian diet According to a spokesman for Cancer Research UK “There’s a lot of research that countries with a high intake of soy in their diet, such as Japan, tend to have lower rates of prostate cancer and some other types, with the active ingredients in soy thought to be isoflavones.” (1). Sounds very compelling, however let’s elaborate how much soy is actually in the Japanese and Asian diet. According to the soy industry’s own figures Asians eat very little soy; around 9.3 to 36grams per day in China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, and Taiwan. In comparison a cup of Tofu is 252grams, or soy milk 240 grams (6). More importantly the quality is hardly comparable, with the Asian countries generally eating their soy already fermented like miso soup, not as tofu, sausages or meat replacement foods. According to Sally Fallon from Weston A Price foundation (leading independent health group) approximately 65% of Japanese calories come from fish while in China the same percentage from Pork. So it is far from the backbone of their diet (8).
Soy in the Western diet Apart from the obvious where else is soy lurking? Research estimates that soy is present in 70% of all supermarket products and widely used in Fast Food chains. Soy is used to bulk out and bind many processed foods such as sausages, lasagne, beef burgers and chicken nuggets (food firms can then put a higher protein value on them). Even the husk is used for fibre in breads, cereals, and snacks. The big one is in vegetable oil- soy is the most consumed vegetable oil in the world and is used in margarines, salad dressings and cooking oils. Food labels simply list soy oil as vegetable oil As well as that 90% of the 200 million tonnes of soy produced annually is used to feed animals (3).
Soy and the Thyroid According to Mary Shomon editor of http://www.thyroid-info.com (9) “Soy products increase the risk of thyroid disease. And this danger is particularly great for infants on soy formula…More than 70 years of human, animal and laboratory studies show that soybeans put the thyroid at risk.” Dr. Mike Fitzpatrick, an environmental scientist and phytoestrogen researcher who has conducted in-depth studies on soy, particularly the use of soy formulas published in the New Zealand Medical journal. Dr. Fitzpatrick makes it clear that soy products can have a detrimental affect on both adults and infants. In particular, he firmly believes that soy formula manufacturers should remove the isoflavones -- that part of the soy products that act as anti-thyroid agents -- from their products (2) How do researchers induce thyroid cancers in laboratory animals? They use thyroid-inhibiting foods like soy in combination with thyroid boosting drugs like Synthroid. (6) How much soy can impair thyroid problems? Perhaps as little as 30 mg or less than a glass of soy milk. (4)
Soy and reproduction Here is an interesting fact. Tofu is consumed by Buddhist monks to reduce libido. Humans and animals appear to be the most vulnerable to the effects of soy estrogens prenatally, during infancy and puberty, during pregnancy and lactation – all the major phases of hormonal shifts with growth and development. How powerful can soy be to the hormone system? One landmark study showed “that as little as 45mg of isoflavines could alter the length of a premenopausal woman’s menstrual cycle.” (4) Obviously it’s harder to find a cause and effect relationship as there are many potentially triggers to hormonal imbalances and reproductive problems. However in animals this has been more thoroughly tested. According to Dr Mary Enig (world renowned lipid and hormone specialist) female pigs can only ingest it in amounts no greater than 1% during lactation phase or face developmental problems in the piglets (8).
Soy and the environment Soy was previously considered a good source of protein which attracted vegetarians looking for meat alternatives. But it’s a double whammy for environmental and health conscious vegetarians as the effect of soy farming on the environment is dramatic. It is predicted that 10,000 hectares of forest every year in Argentina (20 football fields an hour). If this continues at this rate in fives years time the country’s native forests will have disappeared. Similar scenarios are being played out in Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia all thanks to companies like the genetic engineering giant Monsanto. The World Wide Fund for Nature published a report recently calculating that 22 million hectares of forests and savannah in South America (an area the size of Great Britain) will be wiped out by 2020. Crops have also triggered soil erosion, and the widespread use of pesticides and chemicals are destroying some of the world’s most delicate habitats. (3).
Soy Business Soy is traded as an international commodity, like oil and gold. It’s a multi-billion dollar industry. "The reason there’s so much soy in America is because they [the soy industry] started to plant soy to extract the oil from it and soy oil became a very large industry. Once they had as much oil as they did in the food supply they had a lot of soy protein residue left over, and since they can’t feed it to animals, except in small amounts, they had to find another market." (2)
Conclusion So Soy’s reputation as a health panacea is now badly blemished. It still has some supporters, but it is important to examine their background to ensure they are not just PR mouthpieces for a very powerful Soy industry. Big Soy, like big pharmaceutical, has been a powerful force shaping an attitude to nutrition and health. Given the mounting evidence that does not support Soy as a health food I believe we need to be very nervous about accepting big Soy spin as nutritional gospel.
Your 3d Coach
Craig Burton
References
1. BBC News 2004, Soy stops cancer and Baldness, 14/11/2004
2. http://www.mercola.com/2004/jan/21/soy.htm, Soy: Is it healthy or is it harmful
3. Anthony Barnett, The Observer, They hailed it a wonder food, 7/11/2004
4. http://www.soyonlineservice.co.nz/articles/Shadow.htm, Sean Carson, The shadow of Soy or, How I stopped loving and learned to worry about the bean
5. www.thehealthierlife.co.uk, Soy Health benefits: why boosting your intake of soy could reduce your risk of breast cancer
6. www.thewholesoystory.com, Whole soy story: The dark side of America’s favorite health food. Daniel, K, T
7. New Zealand Medical Journal (vol 113 Feb 11 2000) Soy Formulas and the effects of isoflavones on the thyroid.
8. www.westonaprice.org, Myths and Truths about soy food
9. http://www.thyroid-info.com, Mary Shomon editor.
Atrioventricular in India = an overview
Atrioventricular in India = an overview Introduction Background
Endocardial cushion defects, more commonly known as Atrioventricular (ATRIOVENTRICULAR) canal or septal defects, include a range of defects characterized by involvement of the atrial septum, the ventricular septum, and one or both of the ATRIOVENTRICULAR valves.
These defects can be classified by several methods. A distinction generally is made between partial and complete defects. A complete Atrioventricular septal defect indicates the presence of both atrial and ventricular septal defects with a common Atrioventricular valve. A partial defect indicates atrial septal involvement with separate mitral and tricuspid valve orifices.
Atrioventricular canal defects arise from abnormal development of the endocardial cushions. In these patients, the superior and inferior cushions do not close completely. An interatrial communication is left at the lower portion of the atrial septum. This is called an ostium primum defect. The failure of the endocardial cushions to fuse results in an abnormally low position of the Atrioventricular valves and an abnormally high position of the aortic valve. A portion of the ATRIOVENTRICULAR valves originates from the endocardial cushions, and their improper fusion results in anterior and posterior components to the mitral valve leaflet.
Pathophysiology
Predominant left-to-right shunting of blood through the heart occurs in these patients. In patients with partial defects, this occurs through the ostium primum atrial septal defect. When a complete endocardial cushion defect is present, a large ventricular septal defect as well as valvular insufficiency may develop, resulting in volume overload of both the left and right ventricles associated with heart failure in early life. In patients with long-standing pulmonary overload, pulmonary vascular disease may develop and congestive heart failure (CHF) symptoms may improve. This improvement is a poor prognostic indicator because it heralds the development of right-to-left shunting and irreversible pulmonary hypertension (ie, Eisenmenger syndrome).
Frequency
United States
The frequency rate is about 3% of children with congenital heart disease. Sixty to seventy percent of these defects are of the complete form. More than half of those affected with the complete form hAtrioventriculare Down syndrome.
International
The frequency rate is about 3% of children who hAtrioventriculare congenital heart disease.
Mortality/Morbidity
Patients with only ostium primum atrial septal defect and minimal insufficiency of the left Atrioventricular valve (ie, mitral valve) do well without treatment during infancy, childhood, and adolescence. During adulthood, these patients develop symptoms of CHF and atrial arrhythmia.
Patients with septal defects and mitral valve insufficiency develop CHF early in life, with high rates of morbidity and mortality if the valvular insufficiency is pronounced. Patients with a complete defect develop CHF in infancy, with frequent respiratory infections and poor weight gain.
Race
No racial predilection is apparent.
Sex
Girls are affected slightly more frequently than boys.
Age
Endocardial cushion defect is a congenital defect present at birth. The severity of the symptom complex and presentation is dependent directly upon the severity of the defect and the presence of mitral insufficiency.
Clinical History
An infant may be relatively asymptomatic. In severe cases, patients hAtrioventriculare a history of poor feeding, chronic upper respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, and poor growth. The mother may notice difficulty with crying, frequent pauses during feeding, and nasal flaring. As the child grows older, the more common manifestations of CHF may develop, including Atrioventricularersion to activity and play, easy fatigability, dyspnea, and edema.
Physical Partial defects present with the physical findings common to atrial septal defects. The second heart sound is widely split without respiratory variations. A systolic ejection murmur may be heart at the upper left sternal border. A low-pitched early diastolic rumble may be heart at the lower left sternal border and is related to increased tricuspid valve flow. A murmur of mitral insufficiency may or may not be present. Additional findings in complete endocardial cushion defects relate to the ventricular septal defect and valvular insufficiency. Poor physical development, hyperinflated thorax, bulging precordium, Harrison grooves, mild or intermittent cyanosis, and stigmata of Down syndrome (eg, oblique palpebral fissures, large protuberant tongue, short and broad hands, simian crease, inner epicanthic skin fold) Arterial and jugular venous pulse - Water hammer pulse, dominant v wAtrioventriculare in the jugular venous pulse Precordial movement and palpation - Systolic thrill, palpable impulse in the second and third intercostal space representing a dilated pulmonary artery, prominent heAtrioventriculare at the left sternal border Auscultation A single first heart sound is heard, which may be a relatively soft fixed splitting of the second heart sound. A systolic murmur of a ventricular septal defect can be heard as well as the systolic murmur of mitral insufficiency. Pulmonary hypertension is associated with a loud pulmonic component of the second heart sound. Causes Genetics The characteristic pattern of the malformation has been attributed to trisomy 21 and Down syndrome in some cases. Some evidence exists that a critical region of chromosome band 21q22 may contribute particularly to the cardiac malformation in this syndrome. Other chromosomal abnormalities also can result in Atrioventricular septal defects, in particular, deletion of 8p, partial 10q monosomy, partial 13q monosomy, ring 22 14 q+, and 1p+3p-. In most cases of significant chromosomal aberration, Atrioventricular septal defects are associated with other noncardiac congenital defects. However, isolated ATRIOVENTRICULAR septal defects can be transmitted in families as an autosomal dominant trait. Linkage analyses hAtrioventriculare suggested a locus for autosomal dominant Atrioventricular septal defects on chromosome 1p but no specific gene defect has yet been identified. Growth factor aberrations: In the developing fetus, cardiac tissue formation is dependent upon appropriate growth factor stimulation including transforming growth factor beta and platelet-derived growth factor. Alterations in the concentration or efficacy of these factors during embryogenesis can contribute to the cardiac malformations. Differential Diagnoses
Atrial Septal Defect
Mitral Regurgitation
Ventricular Septal Defect
Workup Laboratory Studies CBC count: Blood tests determine the presence of polycythemia in a potentially cyanotic condition. Prothrombin time/activated partial thromboplastin time (PT/aPTT): In children with cyanotic heart disease, the coagulation profile may be abnormal because of associated polycythemia. Electrolytes: This test detects any abnormalities incurred with treatment of CHF. Imaging Studies Chest radiography This test is a good general screening that shows cardiac enlargement, particularly of the right atrium and ventricle. The main pulmonary artery usually is prominent with increased pulmonary vascular markings. After pulmonary hypertension develops, a reduction in pulmonary vascular markings is observed. Echocardiography M-mode shows diastolic movement of the mitral valve with enlarged right ventricle and paradoxical motion of the interventricular septum. Two-dimensional echocardiography is highly reliable in identification of septal defects. Echocardiography identifies the absence of the interventricular septum. Findings may include right ventricular dilatation and paradoxical motion of the interventricular septum. The extent of septal defects as well as the left-to-right shunting and degree of valvular insufficiency can be determined as well as an estimate of pulmonary artery pressure. Lack of displacement of the left and right Atrioventricular valves is a characteristic finding in this condition. Prolonged diastolic contact between the anterior mitral leaflet and the interventricular septum also may be noted. Associated defects that may require attention also can be detected. Abnormalities in the Atrioventricular valves can be identified reliably. Transesophageal echocardiography clearly identifies Atrioventricular valve morphology. MRI: This test readily visualizes the deficiency in the ventricular septum as well as Atrioventricular valve morphology. Cardiac catheterization: This test is indicated when clinically significant questions remain unanswered after a comprehensive noninvasive evaluation. If other lesions are suspected or if operative planning cannot be performed adequately after noninvasive testing, then catheterization should be undertaken. Left ventricular angiography in the frontal plane shows an elongated left ventricular outflow tract, called a "gooseneck deformity," which is characteristic of this condition. Catheterization should involve quantitation of the shunts and valvular insufficiency and calculation of pulmonary vascular resistance. Aortography may be performed to determine whether a patent ductus arteriosus is present. Other Tests Electrocardiography The typical ECG in patients with partial Atrioventricular septal defects shows first-degree Atrioventricular block and left axis deviation (because of late left anterior fascicular depolarization). Patients with right ventricular dilatation usually hAtrioventriculare partial or complete right bundle-branch block. Complete Atrioventricular block and atrial fibrillation commonly occur in older patients. See Medscape's Atrial Fibrillation Resource Center. A prolonged PR interval accompanied by biventricular or left ventricular
“Garlic as a medicine”
Garlic
Garlic is otherwise known as Allium sativum. Garlic has been used as both food and medicine in many cultures for thousands of years, dating back to when the Egyptian pyramids were built. In early 18th -century France, gravediggers drank a concoction of crushed garlic in wine they believed would protect them from the plague that killed many people in Europe. More recently, during both World Wars I and II, soldiers were given garlic to prevent gangrene. Today garlic is used to help prevent heart disease, including atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries that can block the flow of blood and possibly lead to heart attack or stroke), high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and to improve the immune system. Garlic may also protect against cancer.
While the science is not conclusive, research shows promise for garlic in the areas of cancer protection and heart-related risk factors for patients.
Garlic is rich in antioxidants, which help destroy free radicals -- particles that can damage cell membranes, interact with genetic material, and possibly contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of conditions, including heart disease and cancer. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoke, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles.
There are several types of garlic preparations. Most clinical studies have been performed on aged garlic extract or enteric coated, dried garlic tablets. The conditions for which garlic is showing the most promise which include:
Cancer
Garlic may strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight diseases such as cancer. Laboratory studies suggest that garlic may have anti-cancer activity. Studies that follow groups of people over time suggest that people who have more raw or cooked garlic in their diet are less likely to develop certain types of cancer, particularly colon and stomach cancers. Researchers found a 30% reduction in risk of colorectal cancer among people who had a high intake of raw or cooked garlic. Dietary garlic may also protect against the development of breast, prostate, and laryngeal (throat) cancers.
Cardiovascular disease
Garlic consumption may decrease the progression of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is associated with several factors, including raised serum total cholesterol, raised low density lipoprotein (LDL), and increased LDL oxidation (free radical damage), increased platelet aggregation (clumping), hypertension, and smoking. Garlic may help decrease LDL and total cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterols (high density lipoprotein, or HDL), decreasing platelet aggregation (helps the blood flow more easily), and decreasing blood pressure. Recently, garlic was also found to decrease two other markers of cardiovascular disease, homocysteine and C-reactive protein. Garlic may also reduce blood pressure.
Common cold
A study found that garlic helps prevent and treat the common cold.
A Women's Health Study, looked at the garlic, fruit, and vegetable consumption in 41,000 middle-aged women and results that women who regularly consumed garlic, fruits, and vegetables had a 35% lower risk of developing colon cancer. Garlic may help the immune system function more effectively during times of need such as in cancer. Studies also suggest that aged garlic supplementation may reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, including fatigue and anorexia (lack of appetite). Further, results found that aged garlic decreased heart and intestinal damage commonly seen with certain chemotherapy agents.
Other uses
Laboratory studies suggest that large quantities of fresh, raw garlic may have antiparasitic properties against the roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, which is the most common type of intestinal parasite. Fresh garlic contains allicin, which is reported to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Garlic consumption may kill bacteria known to cause ulcers and topical application of garlic may help treat fungal skin conditions, such as Tinea cruris and Tinea corporis. Garlic may also help combat fatigue. Plant Description
Garlic is a perennial that originally came from central Asia, and is now cultivated throughout the world. The most important part of this plant for medicinal purposes is the compound bulb. Each bulb is made up of 4 - 20 cloves, and each clove. Garlic supplements can either be made from fresh, dried, aged, or garlic oil, and each may have different effects on the body.
Components of Garlic
There are several important components of garlic that have been identified, and many more that have not. Alliin is an odorless sulfur-containing chemical derived from the amino acid cysteine. When garlic bulbs are crushed, alliin is converted into another compound called allicin. Allicin appears to be one of the primary active compounds that gives garlic its characteristic odor and many of its healing benefits. However, allicin is not absorbed effectively by the human body.
To combat this problem, aged garlic is fermented to break allicin down to usable compounds. These compounds are water-soluble sulfur compounds and a small amount of oil-soluble sulfur compounds. The sulfur containing compounds in aged garlic give the supplement its reported benefits in cholesterol levels, heart disease, and cancer.
Available Forms
Garlic supplements are made from whole fresh garlic, dried, or freeze-dried garlic, garlic oil, and aged garlic extracts.
Not all garlic contains the same amount of active ingredients. There is a wide variation in the amount of important components in both fresh garlic and commercial supplements. The amount of healthy compounds present depends on where the garlic is grown as well as how the product is prepared.
Aged garlic products are made by fermenting garlic. Several clinical studies support the use of aged garlic for cardiovascular disease prevention. Aged garlic is high in sulfur compounds that are easily absorbed and have beneficial effects on heart disease and health.
Precautions
Herbs, however, contain components that can trigger side effects and that can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a authorised person.
Garlic is considered to have very low toxicity.
Side effects from garlic include upset stomach, bloating, bad breath, body odor, and a stinging sensation on the skin from handling too much fresh or dried garlic. Handling garlic may also cause skin lesions. Other, more rare side effects that have been reported by those taking garlic supplements include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, muscle aches, dizziness described as vertigo (dizziness), and allergies such as an asthmatic reaction or contact dermatitis (skin rash).
Garlic has blood-thinning properties. This is also important to know if you are going to have surgery or deliver a baby. Too much garlic can increase your risk for bleeding during or after those procedures.
Have a Healthy Life!
Fight LGMD with New Treatment
The limb-girdle muscular dystrophies are genetic disorder that progress to loss of walking ability within a few years and cause sedate disability, while others progress very gradually over many years and cause minimal disability. The usual symptoms may involve muscle weakness, apparent lack of coordination and progressive crippling, resulting in fixations (contractures) of the muscles around your joints and loss of mobility. No treatment is at present known in any system of medicine which has any definite influence upon muscular dystrophy. The absence of specific treatment for muscular dystrophy makes it all the more important to consider complementary and alternative approaches of treatment.
In India, the Dystrophy boys always seek Ayurvedic help in the hope for some relief. The Ayurvedic treatment involving Rasayana group of herbo-mineral or gold based medicine, yogic support and specific Panch karma procedures have shown definite protective influence and longer survival upon muscular dystrophy. Ayurvedic specialists carefully consider this condition as adibala-pravrit Mamsa-vata-kshaya due to srotorodha. There is depletion of Mamsagni paving the way of Ama formation. It is followed by vitiation of Kapha dosha. The complex pathogenesis of LGMD manifests as first prokopa and then depletion of Vata element and is responsible for progressive wasting and necrosis of the affected muscle fibers.
Laboratory Diagnosis:
Some tests, such as DNA analyses in genetic disorders and enzyme assays in the metabolic myopathies, will provide a specific diagnosis. Other tests, such as electromyography and Creatine kinase (CK) is most useful laboratory study for LGMD.
Treatment:
Treatment of LGMD is aimed to prolong survival and improve quality of life includes weight control to avoid obesity, Panch Karma procedures and stretching yogic exercises to encourage mobility and prevent contractures. The Mamsagni Rasayana-KS (MR-KS) is new ayurvedic molecule developed by Dr Mukesh D. Jain of AMDS India after care through clinical research of over 15 years on Neuro-Muscular Diseases at Central Medical Institute Bhilai, India. Get more information in google link below:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddwvgcng_75kx2bkd9&invite=gswp3kc
Ayurvedic Til-Mash Pinda Swedana treatment along with Rasayana herbo-mineral resources should be investigated in the light of possible influence on Sarcolemma membrane and NF?B: blockade. In this context targeted research is needed to identify safe ayurvedic herbs, Yogic techniques and Panch karma procedures to further improve complementary approach of Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic program is useful in the long term management of muscular dystrophies. There is further need of controlled studies and multi center clinical trials on a large scale with improved study design and assessment techniques.
Additional LGMD Information
AMDS Support Groups
Ayush Muscular Dystrophy Society India
Sanjivani 6/5 Priyadarshnai East, Supela
Bhilai CG 490023. Phone:(788) 229-2358
E-mail: ayushmuscularsociety@gmail.com