{"id":3261,"date":"2015-04-18T03:22:54","date_gmt":"2015-04-18T03:22:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/pakamericanexport.com\/nutrishield\/?page_id=3261"},"modified":"2022-01-03T10:49:50","modified_gmt":"2022-01-03T10:49:50","slug":"frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261","title":{"rendered":"Frequently Asked Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"FrequentlySome questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of “Health Defence”.
\n<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n
100 YEARS OLD <\/a>
\nA-Z MULTI-VITAMIN <\/a>
\nACNE<\/a>
\nAGEING<\/a>
\nALZHEIMER’S<\/a>
\nARTHRITIS<\/a>
\nASTHMA<\/a>
\nBALANCED DIET<\/a>
\nBETAINE<\/a>
\nBLOOD PRESSURE<\/a>
\nBONES<\/a>
\nCALCIUM<\/a>
\nCANCER (1)<\/a>
\nCANCER (2)<\/a>
\nCHOCOLATE<\/a>
\nCOD LIVER OIL<\/a>
\nCo Q10<\/a>
\nCOMBINATION OF NUTRIENTS<\/a>
\nDIABETES<\/a>
\nECZEMA<\/a>
\nEGGS<\/a>
\nEYESIGHT<\/a>
\nFREE RADICALS<\/a>
\nGARLIC<\/a>
\nGLUCOSAMINE<\/a>
\nGRAPESEED EXTRACT<\/a>
\nHEART CONDITION<\/a>
\nHEART DISEASE (1)<\/a>
\nHEART DISEASE (2)<\/a>
\nHIGH FIBRE CEREALS<\/a>
\nHIGH CHOLESTEROL <\/a><\/td>\n		HYDROGENATED OILS<\/a>
\nIBS<\/a>
\nIMMUNE SYSTEM<\/a>
\nLYCOPENE<\/a>
\nMACKEREL<\/a>
\nMEMORY<\/a>
\nMENOPAUSE<\/a>
\nNUTRIENT<\/a>
\nOATS<\/a>
\nORGANIC FOOD<\/a>
\nOSTEOPOROSIS<\/a>
\nPREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS<\/a>
\nPREGNANT<\/a>
\nPROSTATE CANCER<\/a>
\nSALMON<\/a>
\nSELENIUM<\/a>
\nSKIN CANCER<\/a>
\nSMOKING<\/a>
\nSOFT CAPSULE<\/a>
\nSOY (1)<\/a>
\nSOY (2)<\/a>
\nSTRESS<\/a>
\nSUPPLEMENTS (1)<\/a>
\nSUPPLEMENTS (2)<\/a>
\nSUPPLEMENTS (3)<\/a>
\nTEA<\/a>
\nTIRED<\/a>
\nVITAMIN E<\/a>
\nVITAMINS OR MINERALS<\/a>
\nYOGHURT<\/a>
\nWRINKLES<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
<\/a><\/span>Can we really ever live healthily until <\/b>100 YEARS OLD<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: A few people already achieve this! The real question is whether
\nwe can make this option more widely available. There is a great deal
\nof evidence to suggest that we can do this via enhanced nutrition, which
\ncan slow the appearance of many of the signs of ageing \u2014 such as
\nthe run-down of the immune system, or the furring of arteries.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a><\/span>I take an A-Z MULTI-VITAMIN <\/span>daily. Is this all I need?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: NO. I believe that the whole A to Z concept is a bit of a con-trick,
\nas the implicit promise is that they will give you all you need. That
\njust isn\u2019t true.<\/p>\n

A to Z\u2019s generally contain the RDAs (Recommended Daily Allowances)
\nof the vitamins and minerals that have RDAs \u2014 but RDAs are designed
\nto prevent deficiency diseases (such as scurvy, beriberi and pellagra);
\nthey are not high enough to give you the best chance of long-term health.<\/p>\n

Perhaps even more worryingly, we now know of many new micronutrients
\nthat are critically important to protect your health \u2014 such as
\nlutein, lycopene, isoflavones, Omega 3 oils and prebiotic fibres \u2014
\nbut these do not yet have RDA values, so are not included at all.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>My teenage son suffers terribly from ACNE<\/span>? Is there anything I can include in his diet that might help him?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Diet is not primarily responsible for acne, but the following combination
\nseems to be useful in some cases: Omega 3 oils, combined with Vitamins
\nC and E, and high dose flavonoids (ginger, turmeric or bilberry). This
\nprovides a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, and may also reduce the
\neffect of testosterone on the sebaceous cysts which are involved in
\nthe acne eruptions. Silicic acid applied topically has also been reported
\nto be helpful.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is it possible to slow the AGEING<\/span>
\nPROCESS?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: UNDOUBTEDLY. Many of the signs of the ageing process (furring of
\nthe arteries, thinning of bone, the run-down of the immune system, etc)
\nare nothing to do with ageing itself, but are caused by progressively
\nworsening nutrition; eating habits, and nutritional status are well
\nknown to deteriorate with age. Intensive micro-nutritional support can
\nslow and even reverse many of the symptoms of ageing.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve read aluminium cookware could be at
\nthe root of ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE<\/span>, is this
\ntrue? What can I eat or take to lower my risk?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Aluminium is not the only or even the most important cause of Alzheimer\u2019s.<\/p>\n

However, it is in principle a good thing to reduce your exposure to
\naluminium, as certain forms of this mineral are very toxic to the brain
\n\u2014 and anything that kills brain cells will contribute to reduced
\nbrain function. Therefore, do not cook acid fruits in aluminium saucepans
\n\u2014 the bright metal which shows after cooking shows just how much
\naluminium has been dissolved, and eaten!<\/p>\n

If the drinking water in your area is surface water (ie from rivers
\nor lakes), then consider a silicic acid supplement. This binds to aluminium
\nsalts and turns them into aluminium silicates \u2014 or sand.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What can I take to prevent or treat ARTHRITIS<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: A combination of anti-inflammatory agents such as turmeric, ginger
\nor MSM (methylsulphonylmethane); with cartilage builders glucosamine
\nhydrochloride and manganese. To protect against developing rheumatoid
\narthritis, try to reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections (see
\nHealth Defence for details). You can do this by incorporating cranberry
\njuice into your daily regime.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is there anything I can do to control my ASTHMA?<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

A: Yes. You need a variety of anti-inflammatory agents, and I would
\ninclude fish oils (which must be combined with Vitamins E and C), turmeric
\nand ginkgo. These will help to make the airways less twitchy; and once
\nthe inflammation has been dampened, a lecithin preparation may give
\nadditional help. Finally, the smooth muscle of the airways can be made
\nto relax somewhat by switching from salt to low-sodium, high magnesium\/potassium
\nsalt.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Are supplements really necessary if I eat
\na BALANCED DIET<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: YES. Unless you are a full-time athlete, you can\u2019t eat enough
\nfood to provide sufficiently high levels of all the micronutrients you
\nneed. Government surveys carried out in America and Europe show that
\nthe vast majority of people don\u2019t even get the RDAs of all the
\nvitamins and minerals from their diet \u2014 and are therefore suffering
\nfrom multiple micronutrient depletion.<\/p>\n

If you eat a lot of processed foods, and\/or smoke, or are elderly or
\ndiabetic, you are likely to be even more malnourished.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is BETAINE<\/span> a
\nmineral or vitamin and what is it for?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Betaine is not a classical vitamin, although it has many vitamin-like
\nqualities, and for that reason is sometimes known as Vitamin B10. Basically
\nan amino acid, and one which occurs in many foods (although generally
\nat low levels), this compound is the most effective methyl group donor
\nknown. For this reason it is added to pig and cattle feed to give the
\nanimals all-round protection against stresses and toxins.<\/p>\n

From our point of view, the ability of betaine to reduce homocysteine
\n<\/span><\/i>levels makes it an essential component in any nutraceutical
\nprogramme designed to protect against coronary artery disease, Alzheimer\u2019s
\nand probably osteoporosis as well.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is the best way to prevent or treat HIGH
\nBLOOD PRESSURE<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Lose weight if overweight. Switch from table salt to a potassium-based
\nsalt substitute. High dose flavonoids will, over a period of several
\nweeks, restore your arteries\u2019 normal ability to dilate, lowering
\nblood pressure further.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I take a CALCIUM<\/span>
\nsupplement. Will this protect my BONES<\/span>
\nin old age?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Calcium on its own \u2013 or even when combined with magnesium and
\nVitamin D \u2013 is not very effective at preserving bones.<\/p>\n

To gain better protection, you need to combine these minerals with
\na number of other micronutrients, including Vitamins K, C and B6; the
\nminerals copper, zinc and manganese; and the amino sugar glucosamine
\nhydrochloride. In my opinion glucosamine hydrochloride is preferable
\nto the sulphate form.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>How does one lower the risk of developing
\nPROSTATE CANCER<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Increase your intake of tomatoes, soy and Brazil nuts. In terms
\nof supplements, take the carotenoid lycopene, the soy isoflavones, and
\nthe mineral selenium; all of which are linked to a reduced risk of this
\npaticularly unpleasant form of cancer.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Which vitamins and minerals should I be taking
\nto lower my risk of getting CANCER<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Include anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C, E, and the minerals selenium,
\ncopper, zinc and manganese. Carotenes such as lycopene (tomatoes) and
\nalpha carotene (mangoes, carrots) isoflavones such as genistein (soy),
\nprebiotics (FOS) and inulin. Also sulphur compounds in vegetables such
\nas broccoli and kale.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is there anything one should eat or take once
\ndiagnosed with CANCER<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Many studies show that higher intakes of various micronutrients
\nare associated with a reduced risk of various cancers, but there is
\nrelatively little information on the efficacy of nutraceutical programs
\nin cancer. One exception to this are a couple of trials in which the
\ncarotenoid lycopene was given to men with prostate cancer \u2014 with
\npositive results. Another clinical trial will shortly proceed in the
\nUK, giving an advanced nutraceutical programme to patients with a particular
\nform of cancer, but this is still at a very early stage.<\/p>\n

However, some micronutrients have been shown to have anti-cancer effects
\nin various animal models of cancer, and in in-vitro systems.<\/p>\n

Given the safety of these micronutrients, if I was diagnosed with cancer,
\nI would personally take the following : lycopene, genistein, selenium,
\nberry flavonoids, and high dose Q10.<\/p>\n

Beyond this it is hard to make recommendations, as cancers in different
\nsites may respond to different interventions; for example, in the case
\nof colo-rectal cancer, I would personally consider taking a prebiotic
\nwhich is broken down in the colon to produce butyrate, a compound with
\nsignificant anti-cancer effects.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve read that CHOCOLATE<\/span>
\nis supposed to be good for you, surely this is not true?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Depends on the chocolate. Dark chocolate (the good stuff) contains
\nflavonoid compounds known as cocoa red, similar to the flavonoids in
\nred wine or green tea. These molecules are cardio-protective and vaso-protective.
\nMilk chocolate contains less of these valuable molecules, and white
\nchocolate is a flavonoid-free zone. Don\u2019t forget the calories though!<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I take a COD LIVER
\nOIL<\/span> supplement for my joints. Is there anything else I can do<\/b>?<\/p>\n

A: YES. Cod liver oil tastes bad enough to seem like a medicine, but
\nit is an old-fashioned and relatively ineffective remedy.<\/p>\n

Omega 3 fish oils are more powerfully anti-inflammatory, as are many
\nof the flavonoid preparations. To actually rebuild the damaged joint(s),
\nyou should look at glucosamine (the hydrochloride form), together with
\nmanganese. Many people find that MSM can also help.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is Co Q10<\/span>?
\nIs it a vitamin?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Strictly speaking, Q10 is not a vitamin because we can produce it
\nin the body, where it is essential for energy production and is also
\na key anti-oxidant. However, as we age our ability to make Q10 is reduced
\n(as also happens after liver damage.) In these circumstances the shortfall
\nin Q10 can contribute to many health problems, and accordingly a Q10
\nsupplement may confer significant health benefits.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Are there any COMBINATIONS
\nOF NUTRIENTS<\/span> that shouldn’t be taken together?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: With very few exceptions, micronutrients work best in combination
\n\u2014 and most people are so malnourished they need more than one micronutrient
\nanyway. Micronutrients are not like drugs (ie \u2018magic bullets\u2019,
\nbest used as monotherapies); instead, they are best used in combinations
\nspecifically designed to rectify the complex metabolic imbalances which
\nare the main cause of the degenerative diseases.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve just been diagnosed with Adult-onset
\n(Type 2) DIABETES<\/span>. Is there anything I
\ncan do to help myself?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Cut down on potatoes, confectionery and baked goods (breads, cakes,
\nbiscuits). Switch to less refined carbohydrate foods, ie beans, pulses,
\ncoarse flours and oat products. If you need sweetness, switch from sugar
\nto oligofructose, and intense sweeteners such as aspartame and xylitol.
\nStop smoking!<\/p>\n

Take Vitamins C and E, a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement,
\nand high dose flavonoids to prevent excessive glycosylation (damage)
\nto proteins in the arteries, kidneys and lenses of the eye. Try chromium
\nalso, which may help reduce sugar cravings in some cases. Finally, take
\nmore exercise, or alternatively try a cold exposure programme. (See
\nBrown Fat, on this website).<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is there anything I can take for my ECZEMA<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: A difficult question, as it depends on the cause of the eczema.
\nHowever, try a combination of anti-inflammatory agents (such as high
\ndose turmeric, with fish oil and the anti-oxidant vitamins). In some
\ncases, additional glucosamine hydrochloride supplements may offer further
\nbenefits.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Are EGGS<\/span> really
\nbad for you?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: No. It was formerly thought that the cholesterol in eggs made them
\na heart hazard, but it is now known that the cholesterol they contain
\nboosts levels of the good form of cholesterol in the body, namely HDL
\ncholesterol; which is cardio-protective.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, the deep coloration of organic eggs indicates that they
\ncontain carotenes, valuable micronutrients that protect our health in
\nmany ways.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Are there any nutrients I should be taking
\nto safeguard my EYESIGHT?<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

A: YES. There is good evidence that both cataracts and macular degeneration
\nare largely due to free radical damage, and therefore appropriate anti-oxidant
\nsupplements are recommended. Lutein has had a lot of publicity, but
\nshould on no account be used on its own. It should always be combined
\nwith Vitamin C, riboflavin, and the anti-oxidant minerals zinc, copper,
\nselenium and manganese. In advanced cases, or in cases of diabetic retinopathy,
\nberry flavonoids should also be included.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve heard the term FREE
\nRADICALS<\/span>. What are they?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Free radicals are reactive particles, which can be atoms or molecules.
\nIf these are formed inside the body, they can attack cells and tissues,
\ndamaging and destroying them in a way which is now strongly linked to
\nthe development of various disease states. We can reduce the damaging
\neffect of free radicals by neutralising them both with anti-oxidant
\nenzymes, and anti-oxidant compounds such as Vitamins C and E, the flavonoids
\netc.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why is GARLIC<\/span>
\nso good for you ?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Garlic has a long tradition of medicinal use, and there is some
\nscientific data which backs this up. A combination of various effects
\n(including a slight reduction in LDL cholesterol, some anti-oxidant
\nactivity, and a reduction of platelet stickiness) would seem to offer
\na degree of cardio-protection \u2014 although this has never actually
\nbeen proven.<\/p>\n

The other effects so often cited (anti-bacterial, anti-viral, etc)
\nalmost certainly do not occur at normally ingested doses. But apart
\nfrom that, it tastes great.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is GLUCOSAMINE<\/span>?
\nShould everyone take it<\/b>?<\/p>\n

A; Glucosamine is involved in tissue repair; so anyone practising contact
\nsports may want to take this to speed recovery from injury. In addition,
\nit is involved in the regeneration of cartilage \u2014 so arthritics
\noften gain benefits with glucosamine. Our ability to make glucosamine
\nin the body slows down after the age of 40 or thereabouts, so a prophylactic
\nglucosamine hydrochloride supplement can slow or even prevent the emergence
\nof arthritis.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is GRAPESEED
\nEXTRACT<\/span> and should I take it?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: This is a rich source of flavonoids, which have a variety of health
\nbenefits. Cardio- and vaso-protection is combined with anti-inflammatory
\nand a degree of anti-cancer effects. If you suffer from a chronic inflammatory
\ncondition, this is one product that you should try. (It is a cheaper
\nequivalent to Pycnogenol, the pine bark extract).<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I am 50 and have been diagnosed with
\na HEART CONDITION<\/span>. Is it too late to start
\ntaking vitamin and mineral supplements?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: NO. As long as tissue is viable, it may be possible to salvage it,
\nand restore function. This means that if an artery is still open, despite
\natheroma build-up, it may be possible to reverse this aspect of the
\ndisease process and restore normal blood flow. It is only very late
\nin the disease sequence, ie after an irreversible event such as a heart
\nattack with consequent death of heart muscle, that tissue renewal is
\nno longer possible. Even at this late stage, however, there are things
\nwe can take (such as Omega 3 oils and flavonoids) which will reduce
\nthe risk of subsequent arrhythmias and blood clots.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What should I include in my diet to lower
\nmy risk of HEART DISEASE<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Fresh fruits and vegetables, oily fish, onions, oats and soy bean
\nproducts. Learn to drink your tea black, or switch to green tea; and
\nmove over from white wine to red. Cut down on saturated fats, processed
\nfoods and sugars \u2014 and if you are a smoker, STOP!!<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>My family has a history of HEART
\nDISEASE<\/span>, how can I best protect myself?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: If your LDL cholesterol level is very high, bring it down with soy
\nprotein, prebiotics such as FOS, and\/or citrus juice.<\/p>\n

Protect the HDL cholesterol with anti-oxidants, beginning with Vitamins
\nE and C, and a good multi-mineral supplement. Boost HDL (\u2018good\u2019)
\ncholesterol with exercise, betaine, and moderate alcohol!<\/p>\n

Finally, protect your arteries with flavonoids, as in berry fruits,
\ngreen tea, dark chocolate and red wine; and cut down on deep fried foods
\nand salt. If you smoke, try to stop.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why should I eat HIGH
\nFIBRE CEREALS<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Whole grain cereals are now known to reduce the risk of coronary
\nartery disease, and everyone knows a higher fibre diet helps to prevent
\nconstipation. Some of the cereals (especially oats) also provide prebiotic
\nfibres; and are in general a good source of B vitamins. They also have
\nanti-oxidant activity, although it is not yet known whether the anti-oxidant
\nelements in fibres offer health benefits.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What are HYDROGENATED
\nOILS<\/span>? Why are they bad for you?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: These are vegetable oils that have been boiled and altered chemically
\nto turn them into fats. When eaten they mimic normal fats, and obstruct
\ntheir normal metabolism. They are linked to heart disease and possibly
\nother health disorders.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What can I do to control my IBS<\/span>
\n(Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Peppermint oil is often used; and may be combined with a glucosamine
\nsupplement (hydrochloride form) for longer-term benefits. Prebiotics
\ncan be extremely helpful in some cases; it is important to start with
\nsmall doses, and gradually increase them until benefits are noticed,
\nas a sudden high dose of these fibres can make the short-term problems
\nworse.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What would you recommend to boost one’s
\nIMMUNE SYSTEM?<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

A: Do you want a stimulant, or an immune support? If the former, then
\nEchinacea (Purple Cone Flower) is one well-documented herb. If you want
\nan immune support, then a comprehensive vitamin and mineral supplement
\nis required, together with a methyl group donor like betaine. If your
\nimmune system is suppressed by either over-exercise or stress, you need
\nthe amino acid glutamine or an adaptogen such as one of the ginsengs.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>There have been stories in the media about
\nsomething called LYCOPENE<\/span>, what is it,
\nand what is it good for?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Lycopene is found in tomatoes and tomato products such as ketchup
\nand passata. It is related to beta carotene, but appears to be very
\nmuch more cancer-protective; an increased consumption of lycopene is
\nlinked to reduced risk of cancer of the prostate, breast and gastro-intestinal
\ntract. The protection is probably due to the ability of this valuable
\nnutrient to force cancer cells to \u2018re-differentiate\u2019, ie turn
\nback to being normal, non-cancerous cells. Lycopene is also a strong
\nanti-oxidant, and is thought to be considerably cardio-protective.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why is it better to eat MACKEREL<\/span>
\nOR SALMON<\/span> than haddock or plaice?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Oily fish such as herring, mackerel and salmon contain Omega 3 oils,
\nwhich are not found in white fish. These oils are cardio-protective,
\nand have other health benefits as well (See Health Defence for details).<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I want to preserve my MEMORY<\/span>,
\nwhat can I eat or which supplements can I take?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Start by increasing your intake of the main anti-oxidants, including
\nVitamins C and E, and the carotenes. Make sure you have enough selenium
\nin your diet or supplement, together with the other anti-oxidant metals
\ncopper, zinc and manganese. Add in the B vitamins, and betaine. This
\ncombination will give you a head start. To gain an additional level
\nof protection add in lecithin, or phosphatidyl serine. If there are
\nvascular problems, add a high dose flavonoid supplement.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Is there anything I can take to ease the
\nsymptoms of the MENOPAUSE<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: The isoflavones and related compounds in soy, flax seed and red
\nclover have all been reported to reduce menopausal symptoms such as
\nmood swings, hot flushes and loss of libido. These can be obtained in
\nsupplement forms, or by a switch to a carefully defined vegetarian diet.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>If I took every NUTRIENT<\/span>
\nI’ve been recommended I would rattle! What is the answer?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: I recommend a comprehensive formulation \u2013 one that crams all
\nthe micronutrients into a relatively small number of pills (ie 5-7).<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why are OATS<\/span> supposed
\nto be so good for you?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Oats are a good source of two different types of fibre. They contain
\nthe prebiotic betaglucans, which are cardio- and CChem-protective; they
\nalso contain the more old-fashioned fibre known formerly as \u2018roughage\u2019,
\nwhich aids bowel function.<\/p>\n

Oats are also a reasonable source of the mineral chromium, which can
\nenhance insulin\u2019s effects in the body, and has been shown to help
\nsome adult-onset diabetics.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why is ORGANIC FOOD<\/span>
\nsupposed to be better?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: It\u2019s not entirely clear yet whether organic food really is
\nbetter for you, although there are a few studies which suggest it might
\nbe.<\/p>\n

Organic foods contain lower levels of artificial pesticides (they should
\nreally contain none at all), which may have some slight health benefits.<\/p>\n

Perhaps more significantly, they generally contain higher levels of
\nsome of the more recently discovered micronutrients such as the flavonoids
\nand carotenes, and this may present significant health advantages.<\/p>\n

However, agro-industry has learned how to persuade even intensively
\ngrown crops to generate the same levels of these compounds \u2014 so
\nthe differences between organic and non-organic will soon be reduced.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>My mother has advanced OSTEOPOROSIS?<\/span>
\nIs there anything she can do or eat to halt its progression?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Yes. Doctors routinely prescribe HRT, and bisphosphonates, but there
\nare problems associated with both of these approaches.<\/p>\n

If you prefer to take a nutritional route, stock up on the micronutrients
\nneeded to make osteoid, the precursor of bone. These include the minerals
\nzinc, copper and manganese, the Vitamins C, B6 and K, the amino sugar
\nglucosamine; and Vitamin D. With these micronutrients in place, you
\nwill not be so dependent on huge (excessive) doses of calcium and magnesium;
\nand the rate of osteoporosis should be slowed, and perhaps even stabilised.
\nIpriflavone is also recommended by many practitioners.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is the difference between PREBIOTICS
\nAND PROBIOTICS?<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

A: Probiotics are the so-called \u2018friendly\u2019 bacteria\u2019
\nfound in fermented dairy products such as yoghurts. Some strains of
\nbacterium are useful, and may help to protect against stomach upsets,
\nbut many others are ineffective.<\/p>\n

Prebiotics are a type of fibre, such as FOS, or the betaglucans found
\nin oats, which are not digested but pass through into the large bowel,
\nwhere they stimulate the growth of the \u2018friendly bacteria\u2019
\nalready there.<\/p>\n

By and large, prebiotics are cheaper, more stable, and have a greater
\neffect on the bacterial populations in the gut. They are also likely
\nto be cancer-protective, whereas there is little evidence that the probiotics
\nhave any similar effect.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I am six months PREGNANT.<\/span>
\nShould I be taking an iron supplement?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Iron-deficiency anaemia is the single most common deficiency syndrome,
\nand women of child-bearing age are the highest risk category. However,
\niron supplements should really only be taken if the symptoms of anaemia
\nare present (ie pallor, fatigue, chronic infections), or if anaemia
\nhas actually been diagnosed.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is SELENIUM<\/span>?
\nIs it true it can boost MALE FERTILITY?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: YES \u2014 but only if the infertility is due to selenium depletion.
\nInfertility caused by other factors (and there are many of them) would
\nnot respond to selenium supplements. However, selenium depletion is
\ncommon in the UK, due to dietary shifts, and is therefore a probable
\ncontributory factor in many cases.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve spent years sunbathing and I am now
\nworried about SKIN CANCER<\/span> AND WRINKLES<\/span>.
\nIs there anything I can do, or is it too late?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Stop sunbathing \u2014 but if the beach habits are too hard to break,
\nlearn the Australian slip\/slap\/slop routine: slip into a shirt, slap
\non a hat, slop on the sunscreen.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a smoker, do try to stop; boost your intake of anti-oxidants,
\nespecially the flavonoids, and if you\u2019re over 40 add a glucosamine
\nsupplement (in hydrochloride form) to the mix. This will help to slow
\nthe development of wrinkles.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re really concerned about the possibility of skin cancer
\n(ie you have pale skin and red or blonde hair, or have experienced bad
\nsunburn on one or more occasions, or have worrying skin symptoms such
\nas an enlarged or bleeding mole), then high dose carotenes, together
\nwith selenium, could offer some protection.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why is SMOKING<\/span>
\nso bad for me?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: It floods your body with a toxic mixture of free radicals and other
\ncarcinogens, so please try to quit. A more complete explanation, including
\nnutraceutical strategies to reduce the harmful effects of smoking, can
\nbe found elsewhere on this site.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>What is the best way of taking vitamins,
\nin SOFT CAPSULE<\/span> OR TABLET form?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Vitamin C, the B vitamins (including betaine) and the minerals can
\nbe taken in tablets or hard capsules, which are among the cheapest delivery
\nforms. The essential fatty acids, and fat-soluble micronutrients such
\nas Vitamins C, D and K, CoEnzyme Q10 and the carotenes, are generally
\nbetter absorbed when taken pre-dissolved in oil, in a soft-gel capsule.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>How can I increase my SOY<\/span>
\nintake?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Try cooking with soy beans, either soaking from dry or using pre-soaked,
\navailable in cans from some supermarkets \u2013 or use tofu. Other soy
\nproducts such as the meat substitutes are often more widely available,
\nand will offer some of the health benefits of soy such as cholesterol
\nreduction.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve read that SOY<\/span>
\nis good for you? Why is this?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: The U.S. FDA has accepted the evidence that a diet which provides
\n25g or more of soy per day can help to lower cholesterol levels, and
\nthis is thought to be cardio-protective. The isoflavones in some soy
\nextracts offer additional cardio-protection. The isoflavones are also
\nlinked to protection against certain cancers, and a reduced risk of
\nosteoporosis.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Can diet help alleviate STRESS<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: In the broadest sense, yes. Many nutritionists suggest you reduce
\nyour intake of refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol \u2014 and I have
\nno problem with this.<\/p>\n

However, to gain more significant anti-stress benefits, you really
\nneed an adaptogen such as one of the ginsengs. Chinese (Panax ginseng)
\nis the most commonly known, but the Siberian (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
\nand the Indian forms (Withania somnifera) are rather cleaner, ie have
\nsomewhat fewer side-effects.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve heard that SUPPLEMENTS<\/span>
\nare not absorbed by the body and are simply passed out in urine, is
\nthis true?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Not necessarily. It depends on how well the supplements are designed,
\nand how they are consumed (ie in relation to mealtimes, etc). Good supplements
\nhave actually been shown to provide some micronutrients more effectively
\nthan food.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Should SUPPLEMENTS<\/span>
\nbe taken in combination?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: In almost all cases the answer is yes. Very few micronutrients work
\nwell as single agents, and some of them (including Vitamin E, the carotenes,
\nand possibly the mineral manganese), may have adverse effects if used
\non their own. The other point is that most people are depleted in most
\nmicronutrients; and their risk of developing a degenerative disease
\nis related to their overall pattern of depletion. In the vast majority
\nof cases, therefore, it is more logical to take a well-designed micronutrient
\ncombination.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why doesn’t my GP recommend SUPPLEMENTS<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: GPs are only trained in conventional medicine, and many of them
\nknow relatively little about nutrition. You might recommend them to
\nhave a quick look at my book Health Defence<\/i>!<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I’ve always thought TEA<\/span>
\nwas bad for you, is this true?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: I don\u2019t buy this old-fashioned idea. Tea contains flavonoids,
\nwith green tea coming out ahead of Oolong, followed by the black teas.
\nThese are thought to be cardio- and chemo-protective.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I am always TIRED<\/span>,
\ncould I be deficient in something?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: You probably are, although this isn\u2019t necessarily the cause
\nof your feeling tired, which might be due to anything from an uncomfortable
\nbed to noisy neighbours, or stress-related insomnia. However, multiple
\nmicronutrient depletion is frequently implicated, so a good multi-vitamin
\nand mineral supplement, combined with Co-Q10, is often helpful.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>I buy VITAMIN E<\/span>
\nat my chemist. I’ve noticed some is labelled natural source and some
\nisn’t. What is the difference, and which is better?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Natural source is almost certainly better. This is because of the
\ncomplex structure of Vitamin E; the molecule may take up to 8 different
\nforms, and only one of these (dl-alpha) is thought to be fully effective
\nas an anti-oxidant in the body. Most natural sources provide dl-alpha;
\nsynthetic products contain all 8 forms, and may be considerably less
\neffective, or even counter-productive.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Can one take too many VITAMINS
\nOR MINERALS<\/span>?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: YES. Some minerals can be toxic in overdose, such as selenium, copper,
\nmanganese, and iron; a relatively small overdose of iron (ie 4-6 times
\nthe RDA) can kill a small child.<\/p>\n

Vitamin A can cause problems in overdose in pregnant women; doses only
\na few times the RDA have been linked to an increased risk of foetal
\nmalformation.<\/p>\n

Even small doses of Vitamin K can cause problems in people taking anti-clotting
\nagents. And both Vitamin E and the carotenes can be harmful if taken
\nin large amounts, unless given in combination with Vitamin C. Micronutrients
\nare potent molecules, and can cause harm if taken unwisely. This is
\nwhy the regulatory authorities have determined Upper Safety Levels (USLs)
\nfor most of them.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

<\/a>Why is LIVE YOGHURT
\n<\/span>better for you?<\/b><\/p>\n

A: Some live yoghurts are better (than pasteurised yoghurts), but not
\nall of them; it depends on the culture that was used to make the yoghurt.
\nSome, like the Shirota strain in Yakult or LC1 in the Nestl\u00e9
\nrange, have been shown to persist in the gut and may therefore offer
\nsome protection against various GI problems. Other strains of bacterium
\nused in various yoghurts are killed off in the stomach, and probably
\ndon\u2019t do us any good at all.<\/p>\n

top<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of “Health Defence”. 100 YEARS OLD A-Z MULTI-VITAMIN ACNE AGEING ALZHEIMER’S ARTHRITIS ASTHMA BALANCED DIET BETAINE BLOOD PRESSURE BONES CALCIUM CANCER (1) CANCER (2) CHOCOLATE COD LIVER OIL Co Q10 COMBINATION OF NUTRIENTS DIABETES ECZEMA EGGS EYESIGHT FREE RADICALS … Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":3240,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"yoast_head":"\r\nFAQs - NutriShield<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\r\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"FAQs - NutriShield\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"NutriShield\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2022-01-03T10:49:50+00:00\" \/>\r\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/faq.jpg\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"22 minutes\" \/>\r\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261\",\"name\":\"FAQs - NutriShield\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2015-04-18T03:22:54+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-01-03T10:49:50+00:00\",\"description\":\"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"The Science\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3240\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Frequently Asked Questions\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/\",\"name\":\"NutriShield\",\"description\":\"Unique all-inclusive daily nutritional health supplements from Uni-Vite Healthcare\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#organization\",\"name\":\"NutriShield\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image002-2.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image002-2.png\",\"width\":74,\"height\":98,\"caption\":\"NutriShield\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}}]}<\/script>\r\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"FAQs - NutriShield","description":"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"FAQs - NutriShield","og_description":"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.","og_url":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261","og_site_name":"NutriShield","article_modified_time":"2022-01-03T10:49:50+00:00","og_image":[{"url":"https:\/\/nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/faq.jpg"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Estimated reading time":"22 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261","url":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261","name":"FAQs - NutriShield","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#website"},"datePublished":"2015-04-18T03:22:54+00:00","dateModified":"2022-01-03T10:49:50+00:00","description":"Some questions on healthy living and ageing, food and supplementation, answered by Dr Paul Clayton, author of \u201cHealth Defence\u201d.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3261#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"The Science","item":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?page_id=3240"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Frequently Asked Questions"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/","name":"NutriShield","description":"Unique all-inclusive daily nutritional health supplements from Uni-Vite Healthcare","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#organization","name":"NutriShield","url":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image002-2.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image002-2.png","width":74,"height":98,"caption":"NutriShield"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3261"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3261"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3261\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13959,"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3261\/revisions\/13959"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3240"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.nutrishield.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3261"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}