What is “c-reactive protein”?
July 12, 2009
C-reactive protein (CRP) is an inflammatory protein marker found in the blood that indicates the presence of inflammation. Recent research suggests that patients with elevated basal levels of CRP are at an increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of CRP can be caused by various types of infections and inflammation, including periodontal disease. Levels of CRP can be monitored with a simple blood test.
Until next time, thanks for visiting and here’s wishing you a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com
What is homocysteine?
May 17, 2009
Homocysteine has been identified as an independent risk factor for heart disease (along with cholesterol, c-reactive protein, age, gender, smoking, weight, and heredity). It is an amino acid found in the blood and evidence from research suggests that it damages the inner lining of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It also is a powerful oxidant and very likely contributes to the oxidation of LDL (”bad”) cholesterol which leads to plaque build up and increases the liklihood of blocked arteries.
Vitamin supplements such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and Folic acid, have been shown to reduce elevated levels of homocysteine in about 75% of people. For the remaining 25%, supplements such as Vitamin B2 and Trimethylglycene (TMG or betaine), in addition to the above, have demonstrated homocysteine lowering properties. In 1999, I published a research paper in Nutrition Research entitled: “Do Megadoses of Vitamin C Interfere with Folic Acid’s Role in the Metabolism of Plasma Homocysteine?” (Nutrition Research, Vol. 19, No. 2, Feb. 1999) which suggested that Vitamin C supplements in excess of 500 mg per day may interfere with Folic Acid’s ability to lower homocysteine levels.
This is health information that you can use and, as always, have a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com
What are triglycerides?
March 15, 2009
Triglycerides are present in blood plasma and are derived from fats eaten in foods or made in the body from other energy sources like carbohydrates. Calories ingested in a meal that are not immediately needed to supply energy needs are converted to triglycerides and transported to fat cells to be stored. Excess triglycerides in the blood (hypertriglyceridemia) are a risk factor for heart disease. It is recommended that your triglyceride level be less than 150 in order to minimize the risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fish oils are one of the best ways to lower triglycerides in the blood.
As always, here’s wishing you a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com