“Healthy Answers”…

Wants You To Be Well Informed!
Glossary Terms You Might Need To Know.

Aloe:
The Aloe Vera plant is well known for its healing powers. Gel from the pulp of the leaves has been used topically for thousands of years to treat wounds, skin infections, burns, and many other skin conditions including Eczema and Psoriarsis. Because Aloe is a natural substance it works well with the digestive tract to help cleanse the bowel and reduce bloating. It has also been known to help with treating minor vaginal irritations.

Anthocyanins:
Anthocyanins are the reason for the red, purple, and blue hues in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Foods that have the most anthocyanins — such as blueberries, red grapes, red wine, and acai — are very strongly colored, ranging from deep purple to black. Anthocyanins and flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body against life’s stress factors. They are also involved in the body’s cell protection system. Free radicals are harmful byproducts created by the body. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants may interfere with aging and the disease process by neutralizing free radicals.

Atherosclerosis:
Hardening of the arteries, it is a condition in which fatty material collects along the walls of the arteries. This material then begins to harden and form calcium deposits. These deposits may eventually block the arteries. Some risk factors for atherosclerosis include diabetes, heavy alcohol use, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, high fat dies, increasing age, obesity, family history of heart disease and smoking.

Beta-Sitosterol:
A substance found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds that is used as an ingredient in medicine. Some of the most common uses for beta-sistosterol include: boosting the immune system, preventing colon cancer, and the treatment of gallstones, rheumatoid arthiritis, asthma, hair loss, and fibromyalgia. Men use it for enlarged prostate and women for symptoms of menopause. It is also known for its cholesterol-lowering qualities.

Bone Density:
A medical term that refers to the amount of matter per square centimeter of bones that is calibrated by a procedure called densitometry. A bone density test is used to determine the variance of bone mineral density from the mean in establishing a condition known as osteoporosis. Average density in men is 3.88 g/cm2 and in women 2.90 g/cm2.

Chromium:
A mineral known to enhance the action of insulin and is involved in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. It can be found in small amounts in many foods such as meat and whole-grain products, some fruits, vegetables, and spices. Foods high in simple sugars like sucrose and fructose are low in chromium.

Chrysin:
A natural plant flavonoid compound extracted from many plants, honey and Passiflora which is a member of the passion flower family known to be an effective inhibitor of aromatase. Aromatase is the enzyme that causes the conversion of testosterone into extrodiol which is important for older men in maintaining strength, energy, muscle mass and libido.

Co-enzyme Q10, CoQ10:
An enzyme produced by the human body is needed for the basic functioning of cells. Levels of CoQ10 decrease with age and those with heart conditions, muscular dystrophies, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS. CoQ10 is also known for its role in producing energy and has been recommended for numerous conditions. Levels of CoQ10 can be increased by taking dietary supplements.

Cranberry:
The fruit and leaves of this berry are known to have antioxidant and anticancer activity. Cranberries were used historically for the treatment of wounds, urinary disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver problems. Today, cranberry products help in preventing infections that lead to stomach ulcers, and to prevent dental plaque.

Cranberry extract:
Known to have medicinal properties, this fruit’s extract is available in supplement form and when used helps to keep the urinary tract free of bacteria, helping to prevent urinary tract infections.

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid):
DHA is an active component in fish that produces omega-3 fatty acids which is known to reduce triglycerides in the blood and prevent cardiac arrhythmias. DHA is required for the maintenance of normal brain function in adults and helps improve learning ability. Deficiency in DHA is associated with cognitive decline during the aging process and the onset of Alzheimer disease.

DHT (dihydrotesterone):
A naturally occurring hormone in the body associated with hair loss. Hereditary baldness in both sexes results from a complex reaction when the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone into DHT. Genetically hair follicles are oversensitive to DHT which over time become smaller and smaller, eventually leading to baldness.

DIM (diindolymethane) :
A plant indole and phytonutrient that promotes beneficial estrogen metabolism in both sexes. It is found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale.

Enzyme:
Acts as a catalyst in living organisms that affects all aspects of cell metabolism including digestion of food in which large nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats are broken down into smaller molecules. Almost all enzymes are proteins.

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid):
Other names for EPA include fish oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid because it is an oil that comes from fish. It is used to treat various conditions including asthma, cancer, arthritis, Lupus, blood clotting, gum disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, colitis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. It is also an anti-inflammatory, stimulates the immune system, and helps prevent heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s.

Ephedra:
There are approximately 40 species of ephedra that contain the alkaloids sphedrine and pseudoephedrine that have been found to induce central nervous system stimulation. When combined with caffeine, ephedrine is known to elicit weight loss. Ephedra is currently banned in the U.S. due to its safety risks, including serious cardiovascular reactions or death.

Erection:
Refers to penile erection where the penis becomes enlarged and firm as a result of a complex interaction of psychological, neural, vascular and endocrine factors. Erection is not always associated with sexual arousal but can occur due to full urinary bladder, or spontaneously at any time.

Estrogen:
The main sex hormone in women that is essential to the menstrual cycle. It is comprised of estrone, estradiol and estriol and contributes to the outward characteristics noticeable in most women such as breasts, a widened pelvis, fatter buttocks, thighs, hips, and less facial hair.

Flaxseed:
The flax seed plant produces seeds and oil that are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that is a fatty acid essential to heart health. ALA belongs to a group of substances known as omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is the richest source of ALA and flaxseed contains lignans which may help protect against certain cancers.

Glucosamine:
A natural compound found in healthy cartilage that is used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, particularly the knee. It is commonly taken in combination with chondroitin to provide clinical benefit in the synovial fluid by strengthening cartilage. Use of this type of therapy may allow for fewer doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents.

Green Foods:
A group of foods including barley, alfalfa, wheatgrass, spinach, parsley, and broccoli, chlorella, spirulina, and many more. Green foods are potent sources of antioxidants, along with needed vitamins and minerals. They are noted for their immune-building qualities and are recommended for their long term health benefits.

Glucose:
A form of sugar present in sweets and carbohydrates that provides energy to the body. It is stored in the liver, muscles, and fatty tissue. Insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas allows glucose to enter the liver, muscles, and fatty tissues to reduce the amount of glucose in the blood. When glucose levels are not regulated properly, diabetes may develop.

Green tea extract:
Made from unfermented leaves; green tea contains the highest concentration of powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. The antioxidants found in green tea can neutralize free radicals and may help prevent some of the damage that contributes to the aging process.

Hair Loss:
Baldness or hair loss most commonly to your scalp that can be due to a number of factors, the most common being as a result of heredity, certain medications such as chemotherapy or an underlying medical condition. Anyone including men, women, and children can experience hair loss. Other causes of hair loss are disease, poor nutrition, surgery, childbirth, hair treatments using harsh chemicals, and scalp infection.

Hormone:
A chemical substance produced in the endocrine glands that travel through your bloodstream to tissues or organs. They affect many different processes including growth and development, metabolism, sexual function, reproduction, and mood. It takes only a small amount to cause changes in cells that is why too much or too little can have serious consequences.

Horny Goat Weed:
A rhizomatous perennial herb that is native to Japan, Korea, and parts of China. The plant has light yellow, violet, red, and white flowers, and oval fruits. It has been used in Chinese herbal medicine to enhance sexual performance by increasing testosterone production, sexual energy, and overall well-being.

Immune system:
A system of biological structures and processes that work to protect your body against disease by identifying and killing predators such as tumor cells and pathogens. When your immune system is weakened, you are more susceptible to contracting disease.

Inflammation:
The process by which the body’s white blood cells and chemicals protect you from infection and disease. When inflammation happens, chemicals from the body’s white blood cells are released to try to get rid of foreign substances. As a result blood flow increases causing swelling, redness, joint pain, joint stiffness, and loss of joint function.

Insulin:
A hormone that treats diabetes by controlling the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Insulin stops the use of fat as an energy source. When insulin is absent, glucose is not taken up by body cells and the body begins to use fat as an energy source. The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting, Short-acting, Intermediate-acting, Long-acting and Premixed. Insulin can be injected using a needle and syringe, cartridge, or pre-filled pen systems.

Lycopene:
An antioxidant compound that gives tomatoes and certain other fruits and vegetables their color. People who have diets rich in tomatoes, which contain lycopene, appear in some studies to have a lower risk of certain types of cancer, especially cancers of the prostate, lung, and stomach. Tomatoes are the most concentrated food source of lycopene, although apricots, guava, watermelon, papaya, and pink grapefruit are also significant sources.

Metabolism:
The chemical processes occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for the maintenance of life. In metabolism some substances are broken down to yield energy for vital processes while other substances, necessary for life, are synthesized. Your metabolism is influenced by your age (metabolism naturally slows about 5% per decade after age 40); your sex (men generally burn more calories at rest than women); and proportion of lean body mass (the more muscle you have, the higher your metabolic rate tends to be). Your metabolism is influenced by your age (metabolism naturally slows about 5% per decade after age 40); your sex (men generally burn more calories at rest than women); and proportion of lean body mass (the more muscle you have, the higher your metabolic rate tends to be).

MSM – (methylsulfonylmethane):
A naturally occurring compound that is taken as a dietary supplement. It occurs naturally in some primitive plants and is present in small amounts in many foods and beverages and it is marketed as a dietary supplement. Some people also use methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) for arthritis.

Omega 3 (fish oils):
These supplements help boost the body’s supply of marine omega-3 fatty acids. Dietary fish and fish oil supplements have many benefits for healthy people and also those with cardiovascular disease. Findings show omega-3 fish oil may help to: Lower blood pressure, Reduce triglycerides, Slow the development of plaques in the arteries, Reduce the chance of abnormal heart rhythm, Reduce the likelihood of heart attack and stroke and Lessen the chance of sudden cardiac death in people with heart disease.

Pheromone:
A secreted or excreted chemical factor that triggers a social response in members of the same species. Pheromones are chemicals capable of acting outside the body of the secreting individual to impact the behavior of the receiving individual.

Potassium:
Potassium is an extremely important mineral for the proper function of all cells, tissues, and organs in the human body. It is also an electrolyte, a substance that conducts electricity in the body, along with sodium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium. Potassium is vital to heart function and plays a key role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction; therefore it is important for normal digestive and muscular function, too. Many foods contain potassium, including all meats, some types of fish (such as salmon, cod, and flounder), and many fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Dairy products are also great sources of potassium.

Probiotics:
Probiotics are bacteria that help maintain the natural balance of organisms (microflora) in the intestines . The normal human digestive tract contains about 400 types of probiotic bacteria that reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and promote a healthy digestive system. In most circumstances, people use probiotics to prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics.

Prostate:
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and the penis. The prostate is just in front of the rectum. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine flow out of the body.The
prostate secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. During ejaculation, the prostate squeezes this fluid into the urethra, and it’s expelled with sperm as semen.

Prostate enlargement:
Also called benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is common for the prostate gland to become enlarged as a man ages.As the prostate enlarges, the layer of tissue surrounding it stops it from expanding, causing the gland to press against the urethra like a clamp on a garden hose. The bladder wall becomes thicker and irritable. The bladder begins to contract even when it contains small amounts of urine, causing more frequent urination. Eventually, the bladder weakens and loses the ability to empty itself, so some of the urine remains in the bladder. Symptoms include trouble with urination, a weak urine stream, and not feeling empty after urination. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medicine, and surgery.

Pro-hormone:
A substance that is a precursor to a hormone, usually having minimal hormonal effect by itself. A typical pro-hormone is intended to be a precursor of an anabolic steroid like testosterone, which is taken in order to boost the body’s available hormone supply. Pro-hormones are used mainly by athletes looking to increase size, strength, endurance, reduce recovery time or add lean body mass. They are most often used for increasing muscle mass or reducing body fat levels.

Resveratrol:
Resveratrol is a natural chemical compound found in grapes, red wine, and other foods. As a supplement, resveratrol has been promoted as a treatment for many conditions — including aging itself. Researchers have long believed that substances in red wine might have health benefits. Drinking red wine is associated with lower risk of heart disease and some cancers.

Saw Palmetto berry extract:
Saw palmetto is a type of palm tree that grows in the southeastern United States.The berry of the saw palmetto plant contains a compound that may reduce the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.

Selenium:
Selenium is a mineral found in the soil. Selenium naturally appears in water and some foods. While people only need a very small amount, selenium plays a key role in the metabolism. Selenium has attracted attention because of its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants protect cells from damage. There is some evidence that selenium supplements may reduce the odds of prostate cancer. Good natural food sources of selenium include: Nuts, like Brazil nuts and walnuts, Many fresh and salt-water fish, like tuna, cod, red snapper, and herring, Beef and poultry
and Grains.

Superfoods:
Are a special category of foods found in nature. By definition they are calorie sparse and nutrient dense meaning they pack a lot of punch for their weight as far as goodness goes. They are superior sources of anti-oxidants and essential nutrients – nutrients we need but cannot make ourselves. Several of these Superfoods include: Beans, Blueberries, Broccoli, Oats, Oranges, Pumpkin, Salmon, Soy, Spinach,Tea (green or black), Tomatoes, Turkey, Walnuts and Yogurt.

Testosterone:
In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testis and prostate as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle, bone mass and hair growth. In addition, testosterone is essential for health and well-being as well as the prevention of osteoporosis. High levels of testosterone appear to promote good health in men, for example, lowering the risks of high blood pressure and heart attack.

Tribulus:
A genus of plants found in many warm regions. The best-known member is T. terrestris (puncture vine), a widespread weed and also the source of a dietary supplement. This plant has been used around the world for a variety of ailments. It has been used as an herbal supplement diuretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and as a mood enhancing tonic.

Triglycerides:
Triglycerides are a form of fat found both in the body and food. Our bodies get them directly from the food we eat, and also by converting other energy sources like carbohydrates into triglycerides. When calories we consume are not used immediately for energy, they are stored in fat cells as triglycerides. When we need that stored up energy, perhaps between meals, our hormones cause the cells to release triglycerides.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):
Also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient that is easily excreted from the body when not needed. Collagen is an important structural element in blood vessel walls, gums, and bones, making it particularly important to those recovering from wounds and surgery.It also acts as an antioxidant, scavenging potentially harmful molecules called free radicals. This antioxidant capacity may help boost immune function, protect against cancer, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration of the retina, and other chronic diseases. Foods that are rich in Vitamin C are broccoli, strawberries, citrus fruits, green peppers, brussels sprouts, honeydew, and cantaloupe.

Xenoestrogens:
These are estrogen-like substances found in our environment, from the food we eat, to the products we use. Common sources of xenoestrogens are commercially raised beef, chicken and pork due to the hormones often given to the animals to produce rapid growth. Other sources are styrofoam, plastics and cans used for food and water; cosmetics and personal care products; detergents and household cleaners; artificial scents such as air fresheners; herbicides and pesticides; and paints and solvents.

Yohimbe:
A tree native to western Africa, where its bark has long been used to boost libido. The active ingredient from the bark of yohimbe — yohimbine — is used in some prescription drugs for erectile dysfunction. Yohimbe has been used traditionally for many conditions — like fatigue, high blood pressure, and heart problems. Some people take it hoping that it will improve their athletic performance or help them lose weight.

Zinc:
Keeps the immune system strong, helps heal wounds, and supports normal growth. Zinc helps fight infection and heal wounds. Good food sources of zinc are: Red meat, Poultry, Oysters, Fortified cereals, Whole grains, Beans and nuts.