Fish and Vitamin D Intake Linked to Lower Risk of Macular Degeneration

Two studies published in the May 2007 Archives of Ophthalmology have shown that vitamin D and the omega-3 fatty acids from fish may help lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is a progressive eye disease of the retina that affects the light-sensing cells in the central area of vision and dims contrast sensitivity and color perception. The condition is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and is most common in people who are age sixty and over. AMD is the leading cause of visual impairment in senior citizens.

In the first study, researchers evaluated habitual nutrient intake through food frequency questionnaires of over 4,500 people between ages 60 and 80 who participated in a study by the National Institute of Health's National Eye Institute. Researchers found that higher dietary intakes of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly from fatty fish, reduced the risk of age- related macular degeneration. The researchers speculate that these fatty acids may help promote cell health and survival as well as improve blood vessel function.

In the second study, researchers evaluated serum vitamin D and early and advanced macular degeneration in over 7,752 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES III). Researchers noted that vitamin D intake was associated with a reduced risk of developing poor visual health that can lead to blindness. Participants were split into five groups based on the level of vitamin D in their blood. Those with the highest level had a 40% reduced risk of developing poor visual health compared with those with the lowest amount of vitamin D in their blood. These results support the idea that lower serum vitamin D levels may lead to progression of chronic diseases, specifically those associated with inflammation. This may be important to the health of older Americans who have a higher risk of insufficient vitamin D intake, the researchers said.

While these results are promising, researchers caution that at this time there is insufficient epidemiologic evidence of the relationship between vitamin D and age-related macular degeneration to make recommendations regarding optimum vitamin D levels and fish intake to protect against the eye disease or its progression. These results warrant additional investigation to further confirm the role of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin D in AMD.

The Relationship of Dietary Lipid Intake and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Case-Control Study: AREDS Report No. 20. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007 May;125(5):671-9.

Association Between Vitamin D and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 Through 1994. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007 May;125(5):661-669.

Aspartame Part 3 - Why don't we hear about these things?

The reason many people do not hear about serious reactions to aspartame is twofold:

1) Lack of awareness by the general population. Aspartame-caused diseases are not reported in the newspapers like plane crashes. This is because these incidents occur one at a time in thousands of different locations across the United States.

2) Most people do not associate their symptoms with the long-term use of aspartame. For the people who have killed a significant percentage of their brain cells and thereby caused a chronic illness, there is no way that they would normally associate such an illness with aspartame consumption.

How aspartame was approved is a lesson in how chemical and pharmaceutical companies can manipulate government agencies such as the FDA, "bribe" organizations such as the American Dietetic Association, and flood the scientific community with flawed and fraudulent industry-sponsored studies funded by the makers of aspartame.

Erik Millstone, a researcher at the Science Policy Research Unit of Sussex University has compiled thousands of pages of evidence, some of which have been obtained using the freedom of information act 23, showing:

1. Laboratory tests were faked and dangers were concealed.
2. Tumors were removed from animals and animals that had died were "restored to life" in laboratory records.
3. False and misleading statements were made to the FDA.
4. The two US Attorneys given the task of bringing fraud charges against the aspartame manufacturer took positions with the manufacturer's law firm, letting the statute of limitations run out.
5. The Commissioner of the FDA overruled the objections of the FDA's own scientific board of inquiry. Shortly after that decision, he took a position with Burson-Marsteller, the firm in charge of public relations for G.D. Searle.

A Public Board of Inquiry (PBOI) was conducted in 1980. There were three scientists who reviewed the objections of Olney and Turner to the approval of aspartame. They voted unanimously against aspartame's approval.

The FDA Commissioner, Dr Arthur Hull Hayes, Jr. then created a 5-person Scientific Commission to review the PBOI findings. After it became clear that the Commission would uphold the PBOI's decision by a vote of 3 to 2, another person was added to the Commission, creating a deadlocked vote. This allowed the FDA Commissioner to break the deadlock and approve aspartame for dry goods in 1981.

Dr Jacqueline Verrett, the Senior Scientist in an FDA Bureau of Foods review team created in August 1977 to review the Bressler Report (a report that detailed G.D. Searle's abuses during the pre-approval testing) said: "It was pretty obvious that somewhere along the line, the bureau officials were working up to a whitewash."

In 1987, Verrett testified before the US Senate stating that the experiments conducted by Searle were a "disaster." She stated that her team was instructed not to comment on or be concerned with the overall validity of the studies. She stated that questions about birth defects have not been answered. She continued her testimony by discussing the fact that DKP has been shown to increase uterine polyps and change blood cholesterol and that increasing the temperature of the product leads to an increase in production of DKP.(13)

REVOLVING DOORS
The FDA and the manufacturers of aspartame have had a revolving door of employment for many years. In addition to the FDA Commissioner and two US Attorneys leaving to take positions with companies connected with G.D. Searle, four other FDA officials connected with the approval of aspartame took positions connected with the NutraSweet industry between 1979 and 1982 including the Deputy FDA Commissioner, the Special Assistant to the FDA Commissioner, the Associate Director of the Bureau of Foods and Toxicology and the Attorney involved with the Public Board of Inquiry.(24)

It is important to realize that this type of revolving-door activity has been going on for decades. The Townsend Letter for Doctors (11/92) reported on a study revealing that 37 of 49 top FDA officials who left the FDA took positions with companies they had regulated. They also reported that over 150 FDA officials owned stock in drug companies they were assigned to manage. Many organizations and universities receive large sums of money from companies connected to the NutraSweet Association, a group of companies promoting the use of aspartame. In January 1993, the American Dietetic Association received a US$75,000 grant from the NutraSweet Company. The American Dietetic Association has stated that the NutraSweet Company writes their "Facts" sheets.(25)

What is the FDA doing to protect the consumer from the dangers of aspartame?

Less than nothing.

In 1992, the FDA approved aspartame for use in malt beverages, breakfast cereals, and refrigerated puddings and fillings. In 1993 the FDA approved aspartame for use in hard and soft candies, non-alcoholic favored beverages, tea beverages, fruit juices and concentrates, baked goods and baking mixes, and frostings, toppings and fillings for baked goods.

In 1991, the FDA banned the importation of stevia. The powder of this leaf has been used for hundreds of years as an alternative sweetener. It is used widely in Japan with no adverse effects. Scientists involved in reviewing stevia have declared it to be safe for human consumption--something that has been well known in many parts of the world where it is not banned. Some people believe that stevia was banned to keep the product from taking hold in the United States and cutting into sales of aspartame.(26)

What is the U.S. Congress doing to protect the consumer from the dangers of aspartame?

Nothing.

What is the U.S. Administration (President) doing to protect the consumer from the dangers of aspartame?

Nothing.

Aspartame consumption is not only a problem in the United States--it is being sold in over 70 countries throughout the world.

Aspartame Part 2 - Ailments Resulting From Aspartame

The components of aspartame can lead to a wide variety of ailments. Some of these problems occur gradually while others are immediate, acute reactions.

A few of the many disorders associated with aspartame include the following:

BIRTH DEFECTS
A study funded by Monsanto to study possible birth defects caused by consuming aspartame was cut off after preliminary data showed damaging information about aspartame. Additionally, in the book, While Waiting: A Prenatal Guidebook, it is stated that aspartame is suspected of causing brain damage in sensitive individuals. A fetus may be at risk for these effects. Some researchers have suggested that high doses of aspartame may be associated with problems ranging from dizziness and subtle brain changes to mental retardation.

CANCER (Brain Cancer)
In 1981, an FDA statistician stated that the brain tumor data on aspartame was so "worrisome" that he could not recommend approval of NutraSweet.(14)

In a two-year study conducted by the manufacturer of aspartame, twelve of 320 rats fed a normal diet and aspartame developed brain tumors while none of the control rats developed tumors, and five of the twelve tumors were in rats given a low dose of aspartame.(15)

The approval of aspartame was a violation of the Delaney Amendment, which was supposed to prevent cancer-causing substances such as methanol (formaldehye) and DKP from entering our food supply. A late FDA toxicologist testified before the U.S. Congress that aspartame was capable of producing brain tumors. This made it illegal for the FDA to set an allowable daily intake at any level.

He stated in his testimony that Searle's studies were "to a large extent unreliable" and that "at least one of those studies has established beyond any reasonable doubt that aspartame is capable of inducing brain tumors in experimental animals ... " He concluded his testimony by asking, "What is the reason for the apparent refusal by the FDA to invoke for this food additive the so-called Delaney Amendment to the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act? ... And if the FDA itself elects to violate the law, who is left to protect the health of the public?"(16)

In the mid-1970s it was discovered that the manufacturer of aspartame falsified studies in several ways. One of the techniques used was to cut tumors out of test animals and put them back in the study. Another technique used to falsify the studies was to list animals that had actually died as surviving the study. Thus, the data on brain tumors was likely worse than discussed above. In addition, a former employee of the manufacturer of aspartame told the FDA on July 13, 1977 that the particles of DKP were so large that the rats could discriminate between the DKP and their normal diet.(12)

DIABETES
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is actually recommending this chemical poison to persons with diabetes, but according to research conducted by a diabetes specialist, aspartame: 1) Leads to the precipitation of clinical diabetes. 2) Causes poorer diabetic control in diabetics on insulin or oral drugs. 3) Leads to the aggravation of diabetic complications such as retinopathy, cataracts, neuropathy and gastroparesis. 4) Causes convulsions.

In a statement concerning the use of products containing aspartame by persons with diabetes and hypoglycemia, the researchers says:
"Unfortunately, many patients in my practice, and others seen in consultation, developed serious metabolic, neurologic and other complications that could be specifically attributed to using aspartame products. This was evidenced by the loss of diabetic control, the intensification of hypoglycemia, the occurrence of presumed 'insulin reactions' (including convulsions) that proved to be aspartame reactions, and the precipitation, aggravation or simulation of diabetic complications (especially impaired vision and neuropathy) while using these products ... Dramatic improvement of such features after avoiding aspartame, and the prompt predictable recurrence of these problems when the patient resumed aspartame products, knowingly or inadvertently."

Another researcher stated that excitotoxins such as those found in aspartame can precipitate diabetes in persons who are genetically susceptible to the disease.(5)

EMOTIONAL DISORDERS
In a double blind study of the effects of aspartame on persons with mood disorders, findings showed a large increase in serious symptoms for persons taking aspartame. Since some of the symptoms were so serious, the Institutional Review Board had to stop the study. Three of the participants had said that they had been "poisoned" by aspartame. Researchers concluded that "individuals with mood disorders are particularly sensitive to this artificial sweetener; its use in this population should be discouraged."(18)

One researcher stated about aspartame, "I know it causes seizures. I'm convinced also that it definitely causes behavioral changes. I'm very angry that this substance is on the market. I personally question the reliability and validity of any studies funded by the NutraSweet Company."(19)

Additionally, there are numerous reported cases of low brain serotonin levels, depression and other emotional disorders that have been linked to aspartame and often are relieved by stopping the intake of aspartame.

EPILEPSY/SEIZURES
With the large and growing number of seizures caused by aspartame, it is sad to see that the Epilepsy Foundation is promoting the "safety" of aspartame. At Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 80 people who had suffered seizures after ingesting aspartame were surveyed.

Community Nutrition Institute concluded the following about the survey:
"These 80 cases meet the FDA's own definition of an imminent hazard to the public health, which requires the FDA to expeditiously remove a product from the market."

Both the Air Force's magazine, Flying Safety, and the Navy's magazine, Navy Physiology, published articles warning about the many dangers of aspartame including the cumulative delirious effects of methanol and the greater likelihood of birth defects. The articles note that the ingestion of aspartame can make pilots more susceptible to seizures and vertigo. Twenty articles sounding warnings about ingesting aspartame while flying have also appeared in the National Business Aircraft Association Digest (NBAA Digest 1993), Aviation Medical Bulletin (1988), The Aviation Consumer (1988), Canadian General Aviation News (1990), Pacific Flyer (1988), General Aviation News (1989), Aviation Safety Digest (1989), and Plane & Pilot (1990) and a paper warning about aspartame was presented at the 57th Annual Meeting of the Aerospace Medical Association (Gaffney 1986).

A hotline was even set up for pilots suffering from acute reactions to aspartame ingestion. Over 600 pilots have reported symptoms including some who have reported suffering grand mal seizures in the cockpit due to aspartame.(21)

Aspartame Part 1- What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You

If a product is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and composed of natural ingredients, would you assume it is safe to consume?

If the same product is an artificial sweetener, would you assume it helps control your weight?

Millions of people use aspartame, the artificial sweetener known as NutraSweet™, with these assumptions in mind.

Aspartame can be found in thousands of products such as:

• instant breakfasts


• breath mints


• cereals


• sugar-free chewing gum


• cocoa mixes


• coffee beverages


• frozen desserts


• gelatin desserts


• juice beverages


• laxatives


• multivitamins


• milk drinks


• pharmaceuticals and supplements, including over-the-counter medicines


• shake mixes


• soft drinks


• tabletop sweeteners


• tea beverages


• instant teas and coffees


• topping mixes


• wine coolers


• yogurt

However, aspartame's tainted history of approval and potentially toxic ingredients cast serious doubt on the safety of this sugar substitute. Furthermore, aspartame may actually increase your appetite (Farber 52).

While the FDA approval may signal the green light for safe consumption, 85 percent of all complaints registered with the FDA are for adverse reactions to aspartame, including five reported deaths. A closer look at the unscientific studies, suspicious approval methods, and its harmful ingredients, reveal the hidden dangers of this artificial sweetener. In reality, aspartame poses a public health threat.

OMEGA 3 – controlling silent inflammation

The key to wellness is controlling silent inflammation.

Silent inflammation can go undetected for years and affects heart, brain and immune function.

According to the clinical literature, increased Omega-3 fatty acid levels in the blood have been proven to positively impact cardiovascular disease, help control silent inflammation, retard growth and development of certain cancer cells, slow the progression of Alzheimers disease, significantly enhance brain function, and assist in managing neurological disorders.

Specifically, clinical work has shown that reaching certain levels reduce the risk of death from heart attacks by up to 70% and manages silent inflammation, a precursor for many illnesses and diseases.

Notes taken from USANA seminar on May 9th 2007

Main causes of death in Malaysia
1. Heart attack
2. Lung cancer
3. Diabetes
4. Stroke

Inflammation-promoting foods are high in Omega 6 fats, saturated fats and transfats
· High GI foods
· Red meats
· Eggs
· Shellfish

If cells are full of Omega 6 then you will get:
· Pimples and Acne
· Period pain
· High blood pressure
· Increase in body fat

Inflammation-reducing foods
· Low GI foods
· Fruits, vegetables, nuts

A diet high in Omega 6 leads to inflammation

A diet high in Omega 3 leads to healthy cells

OMEGA 3
· Regulates hormones
· Regulates hormone secretion
· Can help with migraines caused by hormonal imbalance

Conditions benefiting from Omega 3
· Coronary heart disease
· Autoimmune disorders
· Crohns Disease
· Cancer – breast, colon, prostate
· Mild hypertension
· Rheumatoid arthritis
· Essential fatty acids deficiency in infancy (retinal and brain development)

The brain is full of fatty cells – more reason we need Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3)

USANA BIOMEGA – FISH OIL
Usana use a double molecular distillation method and enrich with Vitamin E

Recommended dosage:
Under 12 years – 2 per day
Over 12 years – 4 per day

· It is not recommended for people on Warafin or other blood thinning drugs.
· It should be taken more than once per day to maximize absorption.
· It takes about one month for the average person to incorporate Omega 3

For people with severe allergies or sensitive skin– start on Biomega first – then add Essentials to minimize detox.

For more information on USANA Biomega or Optomega go to Ask the Scientists!

USANA Wins Two Utah Best of State Awards

The judges have made their decision, and USANA once again has received the title of Best of State in Utah. This marks the fourth year USANA has received a Best of State award for dietary supplements, recognition that is even more impressive when you consider Utah is home to more than 100 supplement manufacturers.

USANA received even more great news this year, however, by winning its first Best of State award for personal-care products. USANA’s revolutionary Sensé™ skin-care line is getting the recognition it deserves for its nourishing ingredients and exclusive technologies.

USANA receives patent on Sense range

USANA Health Sciences Receives U.S. Patent on Exclusive Self-Preserving Technology for Skin Care and Beauty Products

- Technology Offers Long-Sought Alternative to Artificial, Paraben Preservatives -

SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 8, 2007--USANA Health Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:USNA) received notice of an official patent, to be released at 10:00am EST from the United States Patent & Trademark Office, for its exclusive self-preserving technology currently used in the company's Sense beautiful science(R) skin and personal care product line.

This patent covers USANA's formulation for manufacturing the Sense skin and personal care product line so that they are capable of maintaining an industry-standard, two-year shelf life without the need for added chemical preservatives. USANA's now-patented "self-preserving" technology utilizes a variety of proprietary blends of purifying botanicals, antioxidants and other active ingredients in protective liquid crystals to keep the product fresh naturally. The Sense line maintains its shelf life without the use of parabens or other chemical preservatives commonly used in other cosmetics and skin care products. Sense has utilized this self-preserving technology since September 2004 on a patent-pending basis, and it is the only skin care and beauty care product line in the world to implement this scientific advancement.

USANA scientists believe this patented process represents a significant innovation in the skin-care industry, as self-preserving technology will allow users' skin to receive all the benefits of pure, natural, and healthy ingredients without the use of chemicals or potentially harmful preservatives.

"This patent is the result of nearly 10 years of research and development by USANA scientists, and it is an important milestone in our company's drive to become a leader in the skin and beauty care industry. USANA's self-preserving technology has changed skin and beauty care in a meaningful way by allowing for the formulation of healthy, all-natural products," USANA President Dave Wentz said. "Our customers rely on USANA's high-quality products to enhance their quality of life. Just like our pharmaceutical-grade supplements, USANA's Sense skin and beauty care line offers the best - and healthiest - products available. Consumers can now enjoy healthier skin and the peace of mind that comes with safe, self-preserving technology that does not rely on artificial, chemical preservatives."

The Sense skin and beauty care line includes:

Sense:
Gentle Daily Cleanser
Hydrating Toner
Daytime Protective Emulsion
Night Renewal
Perfecting Essence
Serum Intensive
Rice Bran Polisher
Eye Nourisher

Sense Splash:
Intensive Hand Therapy
Energizing Shower Gel
Firming Body Nourisher
Revitalizing Shampoo
Nourishing Conditioner

Vitamin D levels inadequate in half of women treated with osteoporosis drugs

Despite efforts to increase knowledge and emphasis on osteoporosis prevention and treatment, research indicates that many women treated for osteoporosis have low levels of vitamin D, a nutrient necessary for adequate bone mineralization.

A recent study involved 1,536 postmenopausal women from 61 study sites who had been taking medications for the treatment of osteoporosis for a minimum of three months.

Participants were allowed to have used vitamin D supplements as long as the dosage had remained consistent.

Overall, 52 percent of the women had vitamin D levels considered inadequate. Sixty-three percent of women who reported a supplemental intake of 400 IU's or less had inadequate vitamin D levels compared to 45 percent of those whose intake was 400 IU's or greater.

Lower levels were also associated with the lack of physician counseling regarding the importance of vitamin D in bone health.

The results of this study emphasize the need for greater education of the public and physicians regarding the significance of vitamin D status in the care of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005 Jun;90(6):3215-24

20 Common Foods With the Most Antioxidants

Editor's Note: USDA scientists analyzed antioxidant levels in more than 100 different foods, including fruits and vegetables. Each food was measured for antioxidant concentration as well as antioxidant capacity per serving size.

Cranberries, blueberries, and blackberries ranked highest among the fruits studied. Beans, artichokes, and Russet potatoes were tops among the vegetables. Pecans, walnuts, and hazelnuts ranked highest in the nut category.

USDA chemist Ronald L. Prior says the total antioxidant capacity of the foods does not necessarily reflect their health benefit. Benefits depend on how the food's antioxidants are absorbed and utilized in the body. Still, this chart should help consumers trying to add more antioxidants to their daily diet.

Serving size - Total antioxidant capacity per serving size

Small Red Bean (dried) - Half cup - 13,727
Wild blueberry - 1 cup - 13,427
Red kidney bean (dried) - Half cup - 13,259
Pinto bean - Half cup - 11,864
Blueberry (cultivated) - 1 cup - 9,019
Cranberry - 1 cup (whole) - 8,983
Artichoke (cooked) - 1 cup (hearts) - 7,904
Blackberry - 1 cup - 7,701
Prune - Half cup - 7,291
Raspberry - 1 cup - 6,058
Strawberry - 1 cup - 5,938
Red Delicious apple - 1 whole - 5,900
Granny Smith apple - 1 whole - 5,381
Pecan - 1 ounce - 5,095
Sweet cherry - 1 cup - 4,873
Black plum - 1 whole - 4,844
Russet potato (cooked) - 1 whole - 4,649
Black bean (dried) - Half cup - 4,181
Plum - 1 whole - 4,118
Gala apple - 1 whole - 3,903

WebMD Public Information from the United States Department of Agriculture
SOURCES: The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 9th edition, June 2004. Ronald L. Prior, PhD, chemist and nutritionist, USDA's Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center in Little Rock, Ark.

Antioxidant supplementation generally safe during cancer therapy

The January/February and March/April 2007 issues of the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine published a two-part article which concluded that, contrary to long-held beliefs, antioxidant and other nutritional supplementation during chemotherapy or radiation does not interfere with these treatments.

Researchers stated, "A single, front-page interview in The New York Times in 1997, which was not based on published scientific work, and a single research paper involving mice, along with a press release by its author in 1999, led to the erroneous notion that vitamin C interferes with chemotherapy and radiation in humans. This notion soon applied to all antioxidants as physicians, patients, the media, the American Cancer Society, and scores of websites took the same position without reviewing the scientific evidence."

The latest research identified 50 human studies involving the use of dietary supplements along with chemotherapy and/or radiation. Not only were antioxidants and other nutrients found not to interfere with the treatments, but in 47 of the studies supplements were associated with protection of normal tissue and a reduction of side effects. Increased survival rates were found in 15 of the studies.

The authors explain that, due to a loss of regulatory mechanisms for the uptake of antioxidants, cancer cells accumulate excessive amounts of the nutrients, while healthy cells do not. This defect decreases the oxidative reactions needed for the generation of the cells' energy.

Additionally, the nutrients elicit other effects on cancer cells not related to their antioxidant activity. Dietary food supplements, including antioxidants, are generally safe and can often be used to improve cancer patient care.

Altern Ther Health Med. 2007 Jan-Feb;13(1):22-8.

Altern Ther Health Med. 2007 Mar-Apr;13(2):40-7.

Note: Dietary food supplements and antioxidants referred to in this study were typical vitamin/mineral/antioxidant supplements, and did not include herbal treatments or products. The information provided here should not be used to replace the advice of the physician. It is intended to be an aid in discussion with the health care specialist regarding appropriate use of nutritional supplements during cancer treatment.

Low Vitamin D levels are related to poor physical performance in the elderly

In a recent study, researchers examined the association between vitamin D status and physical performance. Among subjects with low vitamin D levels, physical performance and grip strength were significantly lower than that of participants who did not have reduced levels.

In addition to its role in bone health, vitamin D is thought to play a role in musculoskeletal function. In a recent study, researchers examined the association between vitamin D status and physical performance in a sample of 976 persons over the age of 65. The physical performance of the subjects was analyzed using a short physical performance battery (SPPB) and handgrip strength. The SPPB tests included walking speed, ability to stand from a seated position, and ability to maintain balance in progressively more challenging positions.

Over 28% of the women and 13% of the men had vitamin D levels low enough to be considered a deficiency. Nearly three-fourths of the women and over half of the men had vitamin D levels that were considered insufficient. Among subjects with low vitamin D levels, physical performance and grip strength were significantly lower than that of participants who did not have reduced levels. The finding remained valid after taking into consideration other factors such as season of the year and physical activity levels.

Given the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in older populations, additional studies examining the association between vitamin D status and physical function are needed. Current vitamin D recommendations are based on its role in bone health, although emerging research indicates vitamin D may also play important roles in preservation of muscle strength and physical function as well as other conditions such as cancer prevention.

The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences 62:440-446 (2007)

USANA #1 Company in Network Marketing again!

MLM Insider Announces Distributor Choice Award Winners for 2006-2007

MLM Insider recently released its Best Companies in Network Marketing list for 2006-2007, including its annual Distributor Choice Awards.

For the ninth consecutive year, USANA was selected by thousands of distributors as the #1 company in network marketing! In addition, Dr. Denis Waitley was selected as the 1st place winner in the Distributor Choice Best Network Marketing Trainer category.

It’s great to be recognized for your achievements from time to time, but being selected as the best in the business by those who know the business the best—for nine years in a row—is truly amazing.

Each year, MLM Insider also includes an “Editor’s Selection” of the 10 best companies in network marketing. And once again, USANA made the list. MLM Insider Editor-in-Chief Corey Augenstein wrote in his report, “As I have said many times before, everything about this company comes off first class…USANA is a company that represents: quality not quantity; ethics not schemes; and excellence not mediocrity.”

Be sure to take advantage of this great publicity as you build your USANA business. Visit www.mlminsider.com for more information about USANA’s latest honor.

Essential Fatty Acids - Omega 3 and Omega 6

Omega 3 & Omega 6:

-we normally get enough Omega 6 in our diets but we are deficient in Omega 3 because of trans fatty oils and refined carbohydrates.

Omega 3 deficiency begins in utero, because mothers are deficient in Omega 3, especially DHA (docosahexenoic acid), usually in breastmilk. DHA is also absent in baby formulas in U.S. and Canada.

Research is proving that DHA deficiency is causing the epidemic of ADD in kids and adults. Learning ability and moods stabilize when supplemented with Omega 3. It is also a big role in the nervous system and brain function.

It also increases the production of series 1&3 ercosanoids and limits the production of series 2 pro-inflammatory ercosanoids.

That is why supplementing with Omega 3 helps arthritis, PMS, eczema, acne, diabetes, brittle nails, thinning hair, psoriasis, dry skin and sex hormones.

Nerve fibers in your body are coated with a fatty substance called the myelin sheath. If this coating gets thin or deteriates (MS) then your messages to your brain…as in sensory nerves,or from your brain….as in motor nerves, do not work properly. Your body needs the right components to do it’s job.

You need high quality Omega 3 & Omega 6 fats daily.

Good sources of Omega 3
-pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, flax seed or oil, canola oil and cold water fish

Good sources of Omega 6
-raw nuts, seeds, legumes, unsaturated vegetable oils such as borage oil, grape seed oils, primrose oil, and soyabean oil

To be beneficial these oils must not be heated, as they produce free radicals.

The daily requirement of essential fatty acids should not be more than 20 % of our total calorie intake.

Omega 3 and Omega 6 need to be in the right balance as in our Optomega. Excess Omega 6 can lead to overproduction of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids- limit their use.

TransFats:
-hydrogenated fats are margarine and shortening
-made by blowing hydrogen into liquid vegetable oil at very high temperatures /pressures
-contribute to overproduction of pro-inflammatory ecosanoids-contributing to cancer and heart disease
-trans fats are added to almost every type of packaged baked good as it doesn’t get rancid as quickly

Saturated Fats:
Not the culprit we’ve made it out to be!
-before 1940 lard and butter were widely used and heart disease and high cholesterol were rare. -a low glycemic diet keeps blood sugar and insulin levels in moderation (potatoes 98, ripe bananas 62, beets 64, raisons 64, puffed rice 95, cornflakes 80, white rice 88, white bread 72, glucose 100, fructose 20,)
-high glycemic spikes your insulin causing burnout and if your body doesn’t produce enough insulin-need to take it (diabetic)
-if your diet keeps insulin and blood sugar levels normal-then saturated fat is not likely to be much of a problem
-if you keep your carbohydrate level low then fat in your diet is not stored as fat.
-as soon as you combine saturates fats with sugar or starch (donut) then the pounds pack on as fat.

Genetically altered foods:
1992-U.S. FDA recognized GE foods as comparable to traditional food.
-labels are only required if an allergen is introduced
Since 1992-1/2 of all soy crops have been GE to produce a toxin to kill pests.
In the U.S. and Canada, most GE products are not labelled.

Dr Wentz took the Canola oil out of Optomega as he couldn’t find a good source that was not genetically engineered.

Australia is the second largest exporter of canola and they have been dumping tons of GE canola not approved for public consumption

Water, Water, Water

Why is it important we drink 6-8 glasses of good quality water every day?

Information provided by Therese Swettenham

:every living cell in our body depends on water to carry out essential functions

:water cleanses the body by flushing out vital organs

:water carries nutrients out to every cell in every extremity of our bodies and carries waste back from the cells

:water is about 70% of our body weight and a major part of every cell

:a reduction of 4-5% of our intake will result in a decline of 20-30% of our work performance and well being

:drinking 6-8 glasses a day consistently is very important in losing weight

:if you are not consistent, your body will retain water in confusion

:water suppresses the appetite and helps the body metabolize stored fat

:for every cup of coffee, tea, cola or caffeinated drink you should drink 3 glasses of water to counteract the dehydration in your body

:if your body doesn’t receive enough water it will automatically withdraw moisture through the lining of your bowels(like drinking from a toilet bowl) and hence cause constipation

Are you a Recruiter or a Sponsor?

What is the difference between a recruiter and a sponsor?

It is the difference between hype and help.

A recruiter seems to be in a frantic search to find superstars among the crowd, and their way to find them is to sign them up and then just watch and wait.

A sponsor has a different attitude altogether. They believe that anyone worth sponsoring is worth developing.

The recruiter expects you to be a born superstar.

The sponsor recognizes that Superstars are developed, not born. Making a superstar takes training, encouragement, help, patience and time. What does it take to become a superstar? It takes a lot of attitude: like confidence, commitment, determination and credibility. Where do these attitudes come from? They’re learned, they’re taught and they’re caught. These are the stages of development of the superstar. It's as simple as Show and get feedback... let them Show and you give feedback.

The recruiter expects the superstar to eventually rise to the top, and the others to eventually quit.

The sponsor is a helper-teacher who wants you to have the training and tools you need to be successful and the encouragement to keep plugging. There is a transferable concept here. Your sponsor wants you to be a sponsor. A sponsor develops other sponsors by deliberate, careful, help and encouragement.

The recruiter wants a one night stand and believes in love ‘em and leave `em.

A sponsor believes in “marrying” those people. They feel there is a responsibility.

The recruiter is like a traveling salesperson, once they’ve sold you – they’re gone.

Being a sponsor is an ongoing activity that creates loyalty to the sponsor and gives the sponsor serious credibility.

A recruiter is not building a network marketing organization, it is all one level and most of them will quit.

The sponsor is building a duplicatable system that can run downline through their organization. They build a powerful downline. They’re not building a downline of distributor’s; they’re building a downline of sponsors through Show and Tell.

The recruiter’s job ends when you enroll.

The sponsor’s job begins when you enroll.

The recruiter’s goal is to sign up people.

The goal of the sponsor is to find and build leaders."

Are you a recruiter or a sponsor? There is a big difference!

Chlorine - things you should know

It is put into water supply to kill bacteria

Chlorine destroys the anti-oxidant vitamin E

It is linked to heart disease and cancer

Even if you drink purified water-how many times do you swim, bathe or shower in it?

Anything we put onto our skin is in our bloodstream within 20 minutes

Chlorine reacts with waters natural organic matter creating new compounds that are carcinogenic. Hot water intensifies this reaction. One of these compounds is CHLORAFORM –used to knock people out!

It can cause kidney, liver, and nervous system damage

If you have chlorine in your water-you are breathing in chloraform every time you have a hot shower. It is a good idea to have a window open for fresh air and you may want to consider buying an inline shower filter.

½ of all water pollution exposure is through the skin and lungs via hot showers , baths and hot tubs.

12 Tips

1. One of the first mistakes everyone makes in finding prospective business partners is trying to find that one "perfect" Recruit, and you overlook the other nine who would also been "good" in this business. “Never Judge A Book By It’s Cover!”

2. Different people have different qualities. We need to be constantly looking & listening for those qualities that could make someone a GREAT associate. Don't look for someone who is "Miss Perfect". Nobody is perfect, but everyone can develop the qualities they need to succeed. Encourage the fine qualities that the person does have.

3. Talk finding about the business to everyone, but don't try to recruit everyone. There is a difference. Try to look for people who are outgoing, ambitious, fun-loving, and who have a sense of creativity. People who are like this are easier to sponsor and they are more likely to stay with your business.

4. Never sponsor with the idea of "what's in it for me". Always be willing to help people with the great opportunity. After all someone offered it to you. This opportunity is a GIFT!

5. Don't wait for someone to approach you. Nine times out of ten, they won't.

6. Prospective business partners are everywhere you go. Just Listen!

7. Listen to their needs and show how USANA could change their life. For instance, if someone needs extra income and wants a job, don't tell them about the FORBES or Prizes, Chances are they won't believe you, simply because they can't relate to it. Respond with the information they needs to know. Keep it simple, personalize it. ( this goes back to listening! )

8. Anytime you find the qualities we look for in an Associate, tell her about them and how they would benefit USANA. She may not even be aware of them.

9. Look for someone who smiles and can get along with people, one who loves the products and believes that USANA is the best.

10. Always let them see how easy it is to be an associate with Usana.
Keep things simple! But make it look like a job that can be developed into a career. Whether they want to work full-time or part-time, they can choose the type of lifestyle they want to have.

11. Take a prospective business partner with you to a presentation. Let them actually see how it all works and show them your success. If you made it look hard, it is over but if it looks easy, they will want to be a part of it.

12. Listen to the woman who loves everything, can't afford much, is looking for a job, bored, and/or wanting something to do because their children are grown or they want to stay home with their children. Please don't bypass people who have careers now; for these are the people who want to work and make something of their lives.