Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a plant compound produced by several plants when attacked by bacteria or fungus. Many studies show its beneficial effects in yeasts and lower animals, suppressing inflammation and oxidative damage. A new study shows that resveratrol also has these same benefits in humans. Two groups of 10 subjects were given either a placebo or 40 mg of resveratrol for six weeks and blood samples were taken at one, three, and six weeks. (Ghanim H, et al., An antiinflammatory and reactive oxygen species suppressive effects of an extract of Polygonum cuspidatum containing resveratrol. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Jun 9. [Epub ahead of print]

In those taking the active supplement, the blood specimens revealed the reduction of numerous markers of inflammation, including TNF-alpha, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein (CRP). It also lowered all of the markers that they evaluated that reflect oxidative stress. They noted that these markers were also associated with the development of insulin resistance and diabetes, so reducing them could have widespread benefits, lowering the risk of stroke, diabetes, and heart disease, and slowing the aging process.

In lower animals, resveratrol has been shown to extend life, but this kind of study is difficult to do in humans (as it would take an inordinate amount of time). However, resveratrol increases the activity of the enzyme telomerase, which helps to preserve DNA length during cell division. This has been associated with decreased cell aging and prolongation of life in all the animals studied.

Resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and (perhaps more famously) red wine. It is also found in peanuts, blueberries, cranberries, and mulberries. Per ounce, peanuts have about half as much resveratrol as red wine, but some Concord grape products can have quite a bit more than wine. Most supplements are derived from Japanese knotweed. You would have to drink unhealthy amounts of wine to get therapeutic levels of resveratrol, so other sources and supplements are better. (I take 75 mg per day of trans-resveratrol.)

More:
Resveratrol has wider potential for health benefits. It is an activator for a group of enzymes called “sirtuins.” In laboratory and animal studies these enzymes appear to slow the aging process, and new evidence shows that they promote memory and brain agility. The molecular effects of these enzymes are similar to the benefits of caloric restriction in protecting DNA and promoting longevity (without the discipline required and the other sacrifices involved when reducing your food intake).

SIRT1, the mammalian form of this enzyme, plays a role in cardiac function and DNA repair, in addition to its effects on the brain. Activation of SIRT1 improves the plasticity of brain synapses (the connections between neurons) and the formation of memory. In addition to memory and longevity, SIRT1 has a direct role in maintaining normal brain function. (Gao J, et al., A novel pathway regulates memory and plasticity via SIRT1 and miR-134. Nature. 2010 Jul 11. [Epub ahead of print]).

Weight loss (if you haven’t seen me for the past six months I have lost approximately 30 pounds by using the product below)

A weight loss trial was conducted at the Canadian Center for Functional Medicine using SlimStyles Meal Replacement Drink Mix with PGX from December to February, possibly the most difficult time of year to lose weight. In spite of the holiday season, participants were able to continuously lose body fat and achieve their weight loss goals. Most diets fail because they cause you to lose lean muscle and body water, slowing your overall metabolic rate which increases fat retention and increases the likelihood of gaining that weight back.

The researchers found that participants using the SlimStyles Meal Replacement Drink Mix consistently lost up to two pounds per week, which was primarily made up of body fat. In addition, the SlimStyles weight loss program maintained lean muscle mass and did not affect body water levels.

PGX is a blend of naturally-occurring water-soluble polysaccharides (fibres) that can absorb many times their weight in water. It is the result of years of intensive clinical and laboratory research at Canadian universities in collaboration with Canadian Center for Functional Medicine.

It was found that a certain soluble fibre could stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce blood cholesterol levels, regulate appetite and help people lose weight without feeling deprived, a key to life long weight management. PGX has an even greater effect on appetite and weight loss as its water-binding capacity is 5 times greater than the fibre studied, and 10 to 20 times greater than other soluble fibres such as psyllium or guar gum. This means that smaller doses of PGX can have greater beneficial health effects than other fibres, as well as supporting safe, sustainable weight loss.

The SlimStyles Meal Replacement Drink Mix with PGX is initially a smooth appealing texture. Once ingested, the PGX absorbs water causing it to thicken and expand for a few hours afterward. This expansion helps to prevent overeating, food cravings and snacking, making healthy weight loss possible. It is important to drink lots of water with PGX to ensure proper absorption. PGX helps your appetite under control for hours and provides a sense of fullness.

Benefits:

Promotes healthy weight loss
Curbs appetite and prevents food cravings
Keeps you full and satisfied for hours
Provides high nutrition with low calories
Balances blood sugar levels
Supports healthy cholesterol levels
Stimulant free

SlimStyles can be ordered through Emerson Ecologics, see the instructions at the top of this email. Slim Styles is available as a meal replacement drink or as capsules which are to be taken before a meal to enhance the sense of fullness and satiety.

A short video about SlimStyles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HBpybYdt0w

August 4, 2010

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