Researchers have identified a destructive molecule that speeds tumor growth in the prostate

A University of North Carolina study revealed that Ack1, a type of growth molecule, weakens a prostate cell’s ability to stall tumor growth. The National Cancer Institute is testing an experimental new drug called geldanamycin, which appears to counter its effects. Further studies are needed to determine if geldanamycin is a viable treatment for diseases of the prostate that affect many men over 50. Continue reading »

Women embrace new methods of transitioning through life stage

Recently, researchers in charge of the Women’s Health Initiative’s (WHI) post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) trial interrupted the study when results suggested that synthetic hormones may increase the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. While experts sort through the data and attempt to assess the threat, natural-source menopause methods—often referred to as phytoestrogens or bioidentical hormones—are rapidly growing in popularity (Azoulay, 2004). Continue reading »

The baby boomer generation is credited with introducing a brigade of “super women” to the workforce. As these women approach menopause, many are finding that on-the-job hot flashes and anxiety are more than simply ill-timed nuisances. In fact, recent reports estimate that 74% of working women are affected by menopausal symptoms at work. There is, however, help on the way. From hormone therapy to holistic remedies, women are considering options to help them deal with “the change” while they continue “the career.” Many have started adding nutritional supplements that contain soy plants, yams or other natural compounds. Some of these nutrients are similar to hormones produced by the body. Soy is praised for its estrogenmimicking qualities and for providing cardiovascular protection. Other lesser–known but equally powerful plant extracts include Black Cohosh, a favorite in Europe, and Chaste Berry, also recognized for its estrogen-like properties. Continue reading »

Harvard University Report: more than 30 natural herbs and nutrients may help impact blood-sugar levels

An epidemic is sweeping the country, one more sinister than any bird flu threat or other killer viruses. Today, 41 million Americans have been classified as pre-diabetic, a condition that—as a result of unhealthy blood-sugar levels—causes you to feel tired and irritable and suffer from poor circulation…many even find their sex drive diminishing. Eventually, pre-diabetes can lead to full-blown diabetes, linked to an increased risk of heart disease, blindness, nerve damage and a host of other distressing negative health issues. It also may shock you to learn that, every single day, 150 people will have their legs amputated because of diabetes. Continue reading »

New supplements offer ways to take advantage of these essential nutrients

Like most Americans, you’ve probably experienced the symptoms before but tried not to speak of them. Heartburn. Bloating. Gas. Diarrhea. While these are common—and sometimes embarrassing—effects of poor digestion, they are by no means the only ailments that can occur. Unhealthy digestive systems can also be responsible for a whole host of subtle yet troubling problems not commonly associated with digestive issues, such as fatigue, skin rashes, headaches, poor concentration and irritability (Westen, 2000). Continue reading »

Regular exercise may help reduce the risk of death for cancer patients. In a study of over 40,000 colorectal cancer patients, active individuals were 31% less likely to die from the disease than their inactive counterparts. Additionally, the lives of exercisers were five or more years longer. Researchers point out, however, that these patients engaged in exercise regularly prior to their diagnosis. Similar results have been noted in relation to other types of cancer, including breast and prostate. Other indicators of poor survival risk include a high body-fat index, being overweight and excess waist circumference. For many people, however, it takes extra motivation to begin an exercise routine, especially if they lack the requisite energy. Fortunately, several supplements—including B-Vitamins, Creatine, Chromium, and others—can help enhance energy production and give you the boost you need to get moving.

Source: Boggs, W. (2005). Obesity linked to poor colon cancer survival. Yahoo! News. December 28. Retrieved online January 2, 2006 from http://health.yahoo.com/ news/142438;_ylt=AvTww6POMGA19oble.qCVqDxurcF.

For the first time, scientists have isolated a fungal molecule, one that could help breed a new variety of antibiotic. Found in a small black mushroom in northern Europe’s forests, the plectasin molecule is believed to be effective at combating certain infections. Continue reading »

Great article I found…

Battling BPH: Can Injections Really Help?
by Michael Moriarty

Natural supplements also show promise as alternatives for problems associated with enlarged prostate

As “Baby Boomer” men approach sixty, prostate health has become a major topic of discussion. The National Institutes for Health (NIH) recently reported that more than half of all men age 60 or older will suffer from symptoms related to an enlarged prostate (Linz, 2005). Continue reading »

Calming nutrients can soothe and help maintain healthy weight

Stress instigates and activates many unpleasant signs, symptoms and side-effects. One of the worst is weight gain—especially abdominal-area fat, a secondary spin-off with serious implications (Jardine, 2005). “Dieting” itself is stressful, too, mentally and physically. Research conducted at the University of Kansas suggests that maintaining your hard-won weight-loss without regaining is made even harder by stress-hormones (Turner, 2005). However, researchers offer new options and further hope that may well outmaneuver the negative results of stress on your waistline. Continue reading »

Skepticism surrounding acupuncture is lifting in light of modern medical reports that validate the practice. Acupuncture, the Chinese treatment of using needles to encourage the flow of energy through the body, indeed produces measurable results, say researchers. Continue reading »