Category: Nutritional Supplements

Statins Linked to Memory Loss

March 5th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

The FDA is adding new warnings to statin drugs about the risk of memory loss. Statins are a widely prescribed group of cholesterol-lowering drugs, particularly like Pfizer Inc.’s Lipitor, AstraZeneca’s Crestor and Merck & Co. Inc.’s Zocor.

New labeling on all such drugs will warn of memory loss and confusion reported among certain patients taking statins. In general, the problems were “not serious” and went away after patients stopped taking the drugs, according to the FDA.

If you are concerned about cholesterol medications, talk to your health care practitioner. Many people can lower cholesterol through diet, exercise and supplements.

Here are some supplements that can help with supporting healthy cholesterol:

Cholesterol Support: Several key vitamins, minerals, herbs, and nutrients have a strong scientific history in supporting healthy cholesterol levels. These nutrients include policosanol, guggulipids, pantethine, chromium and niacin, as well as homocysteine factors (vitamins B-6, B-12, and folic acid). Continue reading “Statins Linked to Memory Loss”

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Chia Seeds: Why You Should Be Eating Them

February 28th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

chiapetMost people are familiar with chia seeds, but what you may not know is that the same seeds that sprout in clay pots are also a very healthy addition to your diet.

Here are some reasons to add chia to your diet (thanks to Cobs Bread Company):

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Vitamin D Levels in Moms Linked to Baby Language Skills

February 22nd, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

A new study out of Australia suggests pregnant women who do not get enough vitamin D could be putting their children at risk of language difficulties.

Researchers looked at levels of the sunshine vitamin in more than 700 pregnant women, then measured their children’s behaviour and language development.

They found that the children of mothers with the lowest levels of vitamin D were twice as likely to experience language difficulties, compared to those whose mothers had normal levels of the vitamin.

One of the reasons for low vitamin D levels is the amount of time spent in the sun, or the amount of time NOT spent in the sun. With concern about skin cancer, many women are also wearing sunscreen to prevent skin damage and possible skin cancer.

So, supplementing with vitamin D3 acts as insurance. I personally take 2000IU per day (particularly in the winter) and both of my children take 1000IU.

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Magnesium Decreases Risk of Stroke

February 14th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Research published in the latest American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found each 100 mg increment of magnesium intake per day was associated with an 8% risk reduction for stroke.

Seven studies were evaluated to determine if magnesium intake had an effect on stroke occurrence. Magnesium is a key anti-inflammatory mineral that relaxes your nerves and arteries, and supports healthy electrical signalling to your heart. A majority of Americans lack optimal magnesium intake due to a refined-food diet, and soils that lack magnesium from poor farming methods.

With stroke being the top killer in the United States, something as simple as getting enough magnesium should be a no-brainer. Here are some foods that are great sources of magnesium:

Pumpkin seeds, spinach, Swiss chard, halibut, black beans, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds and dairy.

If you still have a hard time getting in at least 400mg of magnesium per day with food, take a quality supplement to help.

 

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Happy Heart Month: 10 Tips for a Healthy Heart

February 7th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

You may think cancer is the leading cause of death in America, but you would be mistaken. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; one in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day.

February is American Heart Month, and unfortunately, most of us know someone who has had heart disease or stroke. Follow these 10 tips for a stronger, healthier heart:

1. Monitor your blood pressure

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack by up to 25% and stroke by up to 40%. So it’s important to monitor your blood pressure level.

High blood pressure is defined as a reading above 140/90, measured on multiple occasions. A single high reading does not necessarily mean a blood pressure problem. Additional readings will likely be monitored before high blood pressure is clinically diagnosed. Check your blood pressure at the same time every day for a more accurate reading. Continue reading “Happy Heart Month: 10 Tips for a Healthy Heart”

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    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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