Superior Cleansing » Stress

How Oxidative Stress Shortens Telomeres

Spencer Iacono — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 19:22:58 +0000

June 7, 2011 by Isagenix Nutritional Sciences

Can you imagine entering the doctor’s office one day and obtaining a blood test that measures your biological age, as a better indicator of health than chronological age? That day could arrive soon with tests that measure the length of telomeres.

Substantial evidence has led to findings that premature aging and its core cellular mechanisms are governed by the onset of telomere shortening (1-5). In this article, we hope to help increase understanding of the relationship between chronic oxidative stress and telomere instability.

The glutathione (GSH)-dependent antioxidant system is the cell’s primary defense against oxidative stress, and plays a major role in detoxification and bolstering the body’s immune system. Emerging data are elucidating the role of the GSH-redox cycle for preserving telomeres.

Structurally, telomeres are formed by non-coding DNA sequences along with specialized proteins that act as protective caps at the physical ends of chromosomes. Human telomeric DNA consists of repeated sequences of TTAGG and extends over several thousand base pairs. Because guanine-rich sequences are more sensitive and less capable of DNA repair, telomeres are more vulnerable to oxidation.

Telomeres fold back onto themselves in a loop to provide functional stability. The telomeric DNA is synthesized by the enzyme telomerase, the absence of which results in a progressive erosion. Evidence indicates that chronic oxidative stress not only causes progressive damage to cellular membranes, proteins and molecules, but also induces an arrest of existing telomerase activity and accelerates telomere attrition (1&2).

Chronic oxidative stress develops into a state of progressive telomere attrition induced by elevated homocysteine levels, and reduced glutathione, or an otherwise compromised GSH-redox cycle.

Lower amounts of reduced glutathione, and diminished activity of the enzymes GSH peroxidase and catalase, cause a failure to protect cell components from damaging peroxides (1-3). The mitochondria become dysfunctional, producing increasing amounts of free radicals and less ATP energy (1-3). Together, these effects lead the cell to cease division or appropriate function, known as replicative senescence.

Guarding the GSH-antioxidant System

Because the GSH-antioxidant system is the predominant guardian against oxidative stress, it is proposed that maintaining its integrity can support against telomere erosion and “stress-induced” premature onset of accelerated aging.

Scientific research suggests that a variety of consistent behaviors in humans in-vivo are available to alter the amount of oxidative stress placed on cells of the body.

Among factors thought to adversely affect telomeres are smoking, drinking heavily, obesity, and chronic psychological stress (1-3). On the other hand, meditation, socialization, and regular exercise are associated with longer telomeres (1-3).

In addition, studies suggest diet and supplementation habits can be help preserve telomere integrity. Some choices linked with longer telomeres are:

consuming higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids
obtaining higher amounts of vitamin D, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet higher in dietary fiber (particularly insoluble fiber)
drinking green tea regularly
and taking a quality multivitamin (containing sufficient amounts of B vitamins, vitamins A, C, and E) daily (4)

Whey to Glutathione

Another method to gain optimal protection against oxidative stress and telomere attrition is by using methods to naturally increase the levels of glutathione in the body by way of regular ingestion of whey protein, according to recent studies (5-7).

“Bioactive whey protein,” as one study calls it, provides a high concentration of the amino acids cysteine, glutamate, and glycine. These amino acid precursors are used in the synthesis of glutathione by the enzyme GSH-synthase. Several studies have shown that bioactive whey protein can dramatically raise the levels of glutathione in the cells of the body without side effects (5 & 6). Increases in levels of circulating glutathione from whey are associated with a stronger immune system and greater capacity of detoxification.

Whey also offers other anti-aging benefits such as protection against sarcopenia (the loss of muscle and strength with age) and by supporting weight management through increases of thermogenesis and satiety.

Supplementing to Optimize Telomere Protection

Supplementing with antioxidant vitamins and minerals supports activity of antioxidant enzymes that can assist in protecting cells and their components including telomeres against oxidative stress.

GSH peroxidase plays a major role using GSH as its reducing agent in detoxification of peroxides (types of reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide), which can inflict harm to cell membranes, proteins and telomeric DNA.

The oxidized GSH is then recycled by another enzyme, GSH reductase, which uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) as its coenzyme and reducing agent. Catalase is also an enzyme that acts as an efficient detoxifier of hydrogen peroxide, while superoxide dismutases (SOD) are a class of enzymes that act to quench superoxide, a highly reactive form of oxygen, and convert it to hydrogen peroxide or stabilized oxygen.

It’s notable that selenium, niacin, zinc, and copper are important dietary factors because these enzymes rely on them to function.

Interestingly, data are emerging that particular dietary factors and supplements could act to promote antioxidant enzyme activity further and thereby further support telomere integrity. These supplements will be subject of future blog posts.

References

Kurz et al. Chronic oxidative stress compromises telomere integrity and accelerates the onset of senescence in human endothelial cells. J Cell Sci 2004. doi: 10.1242/jcs.01097.
Tchirkov & Lansdorp. Role of oxidative stress in telomere shortening in cultured fibroblasts from normal individuals and patients with ataxia-telangiectasia. Hum Mol Gen 2003. doi: 10.1093/hmg/ddg023
Sahin E, Colla S, Liesa M et al. Telomere dysfunction induces metabolic and mitochondrial compromise. Nature 2011;470:359-65. doi:10.1038/nature09787
Xu Q, Parks CG, DeRoo LA, Cawthon RM, Sandler DP, Chen H. Multivitamin use and telomere length in women. Am J Clin Nutr 2009;89:1857-63. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.2008.26986
Kent et al. Toxicol in Vitro 2003 Feb;17(1):27-33. doi:10.1016/S0887-2333(02)00119-4
Micke P et al. Eur J Clin Invest 2001 Feb;32(2):171-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2362.2001.00781.x

Does Stress Cause Aging?

Spencer Iacono — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 17:17:43 +0000

April 16, 2011 by Isagenix Nutritional Sciences

Finding ways to cope with stress is key to healthy aging, research suggests.

A little bit of stress is important to keep you awake, active, and motivated. However, when we experience chronic periods of intense stress, our bodies begin to feel the burden. This April is Stress Awareness Month and a perfect time to acknowledge what you’re feeling and why.

The Health Resource Network, a non-profit organization, decided to set aside these four weeks to improve awareness about the dangers of stress and begin the promotion of healthy habits, on a national level. Adding to the recognition of how stress affects our health, new research has come out showing that chronic psychological stress may actually take years off your life, acting on a cellular level. Have we mentioned the importance of telomeres?

Many conditions of poor health, including the inevitable fate of aging, have been linked with the shortening of telomeres. Telomeres are the protective caps on our chromosomes that enable successful cell division and replication. These structures have come to the forefront of the battle for long-term health.

Findings from University of California, San Francisco, (UCSF) investigators presented April 4 added to an emerging body of evidence that psychological stress may accelerate shortening of telomeres, and how regular exercise may help to prevent it. In addition, a new study published in the March issue of PLoS ONE, showed that chronic depression is linked with accelerated reduction of telomere length. Researchers from the University of California San Francisco, including Nobel laureate Elizabeth Blackburn, matched 18 individuals with a history of major depressive disorders with 17 control participants. The researchers measured leukocyte (white blood cell) telomere length, as well as assessed oxidative stress and inflammatory markers.

Leukocytes are important cells for immune function and pathogen resistance. The authors looked specifically at leukocytes to view how our protective pathways are specifically impacted by psychological stress.

The participants that suffered from chronic depression had significantly shorter telomeres. Additionally, telomere length was inversely related to oxidative and inflammatory stress. Or rather, more stress and more cell destruction, equals shorter telomeres. The authors gathered that a cascade of stress hormones, “chronic inflammation and oxidation may be mechanisms by which chronic depression can result in shortened telomeres.”

These results add evidence to the widely observed phenomenon that chronically depressed persons have a greater incidence for chronic conditions and mortality.

The results of this study are not meant to cause you additional anxiety. Experiencing concern that your body is undergoing too much stress is precisely what we want to avoid! So be aware, there is a light at the end of this tunnel! Simple, conscious daily activities will help mitigate chronic stressors and keep your body healthy.

Whether you are trying to protect your leukocytes, delay the onset of aging or simply looking to clear your mind, here are a few daily rituals to put yourself at ease provided by none other than our own Facebook fans and Twitter followers:

Tina Bowers has this advice, “Take a sack lunch and eat it at the park while watching the ducks.” Seriously, what is more relaxing than that! Better yet, try “wandering in the bush,” and don’t forget a suit for “swimming,” suggests Cherie Burke. Kevin Boulton also advises taking in nature, “First thing in the morning drinking 1 oz of Ionix® Supreme, helps me relax [we agree, the product's adaptogens can help the body cope with stress]. The other thing is I like to take a drive with my wife and take in the countryside.”
Lorri Hollingsworth adds “meditation and deep breathing… aaaahh!” While this recommendation may be overstated—we feel its place is particularly important this month. Meditation not only has been linked to stress reduction and reducing the rate of telomeres, but it has also been associated with positive self-image, improved memory and concentration. Recent research has shown that meditation actually changes your brain’s gray matter!
“Good sleep,” suggests Juan Avila. Going without good sleep can definitely add a hearty amount of stress.
Several folks mentioned physical activity including Kathleen Morin, Rodney Bugg, Gregory Valiquette, and Karen Powers who like walking or jogging, Joanne Mikula who enjoys Iyengar yoga, Barbara Badgley who hits the gym, Yossi Montrose who exercises using a Performa Ball, and Jamal Eriksson who practices a few karate strikes on his makiwara. Andrea Garrote from Twitter adds “riding horses!” Healthy weight, a healthy heart and a healthy attitude are all reasons to take up exercise; however, increased activity also has been shown to mitigate the impact of stress on telomere length! Lengthen that walk and perhaps, lengthen your protective DNA.
Guruprasad Naik says, “talking to frenz… and music.” It’s true. Socializing is a powerful stress reliever, as Marion Moss knows; her advice, “swim or chat with wonderful people.” If friends aren’t around, consider how Kristi O’Neill from Twitter relieves stress: “walking my dog, reading a romance novel, or watching a movie.”

References

O’Brien. 2011. “Exercise May Prevent Impact of Stress on Telomeres, A Measure of Cell Health.” University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). April 4, 2011.

Wolkowitz OM, Mellon SH, Epel ES et al. Leukocyte telomere length in major depression: correlations with chronicity, inflammation and oxidative stress – preliminary findings. PLoS One 2011;6:e17837.

Can Being Sleep Deprived Actually Kill You Early?

Melanie Iacono — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 19:39:46 +0000

: A lack of sleep clearly wreaks havoc with many facets of human health.

People who suffer from a rare form of insomnia can die from lack of sleep.A genetic disease called fatal familial insomnia, or FFI, causes people to fall into a state in which they are neither asleep nor awake. Since they cannot fully sleep, they suffer from exhaustion, dementia and eventually death. There is no cure.

According to ABC News:

“The genetic mutation for FFI runs in families. Only 40 families are known to have this disease in the world, but most people have had at least one night where it seems impossible to fall asleep.”

A lack of sleep clearly wreaks havoc with many facets of human health. Scientists have long known, for instance, that lack of sleep is associated with weight gain. One study found that after a night of abbreviated sleep, subjects consumed more than 500 extra calories.

Another study also found that subjects ate significantly more snacks and carbohydrates after a night of only five and a half hours of sleep.

According to the New York Times:

“Some studies pin the blame on hormones, arguing that decreased sleep creates a spike in ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite, and a reduction in leptin, which signals satiety.”

For original article click here.

Childhood Stress Induced by Trauma Increases Risk of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Melanie Iacono — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:14:03 +0000

: Childhood stress/trauma and Chronic Fatigue

(NaturalNews) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition marked by persistent cycles of fatigue and recovery accompanied by diverse symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. It causes long-term tiredness which cannot be relieved by rest or sleep.

There are a wide range of factors involved in the development of CFS which may include chronic viral infection, low blood pressure, immune system damage, malnutrition, intestinal permeability, impaired detoxification, immune system damage, food allergies, neurological malfunction, hypoglycemia, poor adrenal function and hypothyroidism, among others.

Childhood trauma is another risk factor as indicated by a study published in the journal, Archives of General Psychiatry. The study, which was headed by Dr. Christine Heim, concluded that exposure to childhood trauma was associated with a six-fold increased risk of CFS.

They also discovered that participants with CFS had very low levels of cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex in higher levels during the body`s “fight or flight” response to stress. It is responsible for several stress-related changes in the body including blood pressure increase, insulin release, and glucose metabolism. Childhood trauma may elevate the production of stress hormones, including cortisol, to higher levels.

The authors conducted the study by recruiting 113 people with CFS and 124 other people without CFS as a control group from a general population of 19,381 adult residents living in Georgia, the United States. Participants completed a questionnaire on five different types of childhood trauma including sexual, physical and emotional abuse and also emotional and physical neglect. Their saliva was collected upon awakening to determine cortisol levels. Normally, cortisol levels are lowest at night and higher in the morning.

The study found that only participants with CFS and a history of childhood trauma had lower cortisol levels than those with CFS but were not exposed to childhood trauma. It was also concluded that low cortisol levels may actually point to a risk of developing CFS rather than being a sign of the syndrome itself.

People who experience prolonged stress are usually found to have higher cortisol levels. At one point, the adrenal cortex which secretes cortisol becomes exhausted and produces lower levels of cortisol. This, in turn, results in multiple symptoms that characterize CFS. Adult participants in the study with CFS who were exposed to childhood trauma may have experienced low cortisol levels sometime or long before the study was conducted.

The study also found that participants who were exposed to emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional neglect were the most effective subscales in differentiating CFS cases from controls. It also found that the presence of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms increases the risk of CFS.

The results of the study can be used as a guide for parents in raising their children. As low levels of cortisol has been implicated in the development of CFS, parents should try as much as possible to avoid the five forms of childhood trauma from their children as they induce prolonged stress and subsequently reduce the secretion of cortisol.

Further Readings:

Heim C., et al., “Childhood Trauma and Risk for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Association With Neuroendocrine Dysfunction.” Arch Gen Psychiatry 2009;66(1):72-80.

Heim C., et al., “Early Adverse Experience and Risk for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Results From a Population-Based Study.” Arch Gen Psychiatry 2006;63:1258-1266.

“Stress Hormone `A Marker for ME`.” BBC News Health Jan 6, 2009.

For original article click here.

Super Bowl spectator stress can spark a heart attack

Melanie Iacono — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 02:48:32 +0000

: Saints fans react to a call during the NFC Championship Game vs. the Vikings at the Superdome in New Orleans. “If you are a very enthusiastic fan that gets emotionally involved in these games and jumps up and down and screams and really feels the emotion, and especially if you have coronary risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, they should discuss it with their health-care provider to maybe level that a little bit,” says Dr. Robert Kloner

By Steven Reinberg, HealthDay

When the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts take the field for Super Bowl XLIV on Sunday, emotions will be running high, so high that some fans can run the risk of a heart attack and even death.The risk is real, cardiologists say, because studies have shown that when a favorite team loses, angry fans can suffer so much stress that the result is sudden cardiac death.

“If you look at a lot of data from a lot of different sports, there is a spectator risk,” said Dr. Stephen Siegel, a cardiologist at New York University Langone Medical Center.

The best way to avoid this unhappy consequence is, “don’t take it so seriously. Don’t get so excited about it,” he said. “Enjoy the game, have fun with it, but don’t spend your life savings on betting on it and don’t have your life invested in the outcome.”

In one study, a team from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, led by Dr. Robert Kloner, director of research at the Heart Institute at Good Samaritan Hospital, looked at death rates in Los Angeles County on the day of two Super Bowls that had decidedly different outcomes for the home team: 1980, when the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Los Angeles Rams, and 1984, when the Los Angeles Raiders beat the Washington Redskins.

The researchers also looked at death rates for the two weeks following each game. They then compared those statistics to death rates in the same county for the same period in the years between and after those Super Bowls. They found that all-cause death rates rose significantly after the 1980 loss, and death rates declined after the 1984 victory.

“If you are a very enthusiastic fan that gets emotionally involved in these games and jumps up and down and screams and really feels the emotion, and especially if you have coronary risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, they should discuss it with their health-care provider to maybe level that a little bit,” Kloner said.

Kloner noted there are stress reduction programs and even some medications that can help keep you calm.

In another study, researchers looked at deaths during the 2006 World Cup soccer matches in which Germany played. During six of the seven German games, they found an increase in the number of reported cardiovascular events. That effect was even more pronounced when the Germans were involved in a dramatic match where the winning goal was scored during the last minute.

On days when the German team was playing, the proportion of cardiac patients who were male jumped to an average of 71.5%, while men only accounted for 56.7% of cardiac care during the no-play period.

Overall, the incidence of cardiac emergencies in men increased 3.26 times the average of the control period when the German team was playing. For women, the increase was 1.82 times higher than the control period.

Yet another study found that people with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) who let their anger get the better of them could be at high risk for sudden cardiac death from cardiac arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeats.

Siegel noted that eating too much and drinking too much can add to the stress, which, combined with anger, can also help trigger a heart attack.

Another expert, Dr. Gregg C. Fonarow, a professor of cardiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, said “the danger is real. Although uncommon, severe emotional stress can trigger cardiovascular events.”

Some people may respond to the emotional stress of watching their favorite sports team lose an important game by releasing large amounts of catecholamines — adrenalin and noradrenalin, also called epinephrine and norepinephrine — into the bloodstream, along with other small proteins produced by an overexcited nervous system, Fonarow explained.

“These chemicals can trigger atherosclerotic plaques to rupture, resulting in an acute heart attack or can trigger life-threatening arrhythmias resulting in sudden cardiac death,” he said. “Individuals with preexisting heart conditions and those with risk factors for heart disease are at increased risk for such events.”

Original article found here

Nutritional Cleansing – Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions

Spencer Iacono — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 03:18:55 +0000

Another great educational piece from Isagenix Nutritional Sciences

Do you have a question about nutritional cleansing? Are you a new cleanser, but unsure how to use the products? Not to worry—we’ve put together some of the most common questions and answered them on this post. As you start a new year, we hope these FAQ will assist you and your Isagenix team.

Q. Why do I need nutritional cleansing?

A. Toxins and stress in our modern environment subject our bodies to continual risk of poor health. Once you begin cleansing you’ll notice you’ll feel cleaner (like the feeling you get after a shower), and more energized. You’ll be healthier, too. Next time you look in the mirror you may also notice you are a few pounds leaner.

Q. How does nutritional cleansing work?

A. Over time, the human body has had to adjust to natural toxins in the environment, often with significant help from certain plants that provide special active components. Nutritional cleansing enlists a blend of these botanicals along with vitamins and minerals to support the body nutritionally for the modern world’s onslaught of new toxins*.

Q. Why does Cleanse for Life™ Tropical Berry flavor have two sets of directions? What is the difference between Everyday Cleansing and Deep Cleansing?

A. Keeping your body free of toxins is not too different from maintaining a home. To renew the beauty of your home, an annual “spring cleaning” does the job, but to keep your home safe and orderly, regular daily cleaning is necessary.

Cleanse for Life Tropical Berry flavor can be used to serve both the function of giving the internal body a thorough wash-down and that of providing for its daily up-keep, which is why its label now features two sets of directions.

The first set of directions highlights Everyday Cleansing and the second highlights Deep Cleansing. Everyday Cleansing consists of drinking 1-2 fl. oz. up to twice daily, first thing in the morning or between meals. Deep Cleansing consists of its use as an all-day drink for up to two consecutive Cleanse Days, drinking 4 fl. oz. with 4 fl. oz. of cold water four times daily as part of the Cleansing and Fat Burning System or Total Health and Wellness System.

Q. Where can I find instructions on how to use the Cleansing and Fat Burning System?

A. You can find instructions on how to use the Cleansing and Fat Burning System here (30-day supply) and here (9-day supply). You can find instructions on how to use the Total Health and Wellness System here.

Q. Is Cleanse for Life safe for long-term use?

A. Yes. It is absolutely safe. And healthy. You can use Cleanse for Life on a daily basis long-term. Deep Cleansing, which entails performing Cleanse Days, should be limited to no more than two consecutive days per week.

Q. Can I use Cleanse for Life by itself for nutritional cleansing benefit?

Yes. However, the product was designed to be used as part of one of our complete programs: the Cleansing and Fat Burning System (9-day, 30-day supply) or the Total Health and Wellness System (30-day supply).

Q. Why was Ashwaghanda added to the product?

A. Ashwaghanda (Withania somnifera), also known as Winter Cherry, is classified in Ayurvedic medicine as a plant that helps the body resist stress.* The plant helps reduce oxidative stress, supports liver health and detoxification, and has potential for slowing aging.*

Q. Why was Yellow Dock added to the product?

A. Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) leaves, sometimes used in salads, can help encourage bile production, serving the needs of the liver for ridding itself of toxins.* In larger doses, it can serve in helping with constipation.

Q. Why were bilberry, blueberry and raspberry added to the product?

A. Three berries that are well known for their antioxidant activity are now part of Cleanse for Life. Bilberry and blueberry, touted for supporting vision and mental health, also assist in strongly supporting detoxification.* Raspberry’s content of ellagic acid provides strong free-radical scavenging activity.*

Q. Why does Cleanse for Life contain inner-leaf Aloe vera gel?

A. Aloe vera gel consists of polysaccharides, glycoproteins, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. The gel can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the gut and colon, may enhance bioavailability of vitamins C and E and its natural antioxidant activity can help reduce oxidative stress.

The gel’s polysaccharides have been studied for their ability to balance the immune system and their actions as natural detoxifiers, helping to move along biochemical processes in the liver to neutralize toxins.

Q. Is Aloe vera gel a laxative?

A. No. Unlike “aloe bitters,” a yellow sap that contains anthroquinones, the gel contains no laxative effect and is absolutely non-toxic. Note: Use of “aloe bitters” is not legal in dietary supplement drinks.

Q. Why is Pau d’Arco used in the product?

A. Pau d’Arco (Tabebuia heptaphylla) is an herb with a history of use in Paraguay for a wide variety of ailments. It nourishes cells within the digestive tract and can help the body resist infection.* The plant may help reduce inflammation and guard against damage from cumulative toxins.*

Q. Why is Burdock in the product?

A. Burdock root (Arctium lappa) has a historic use as a blood purifier and helps rid the circulation system of toxins.* This thistle relative offers components that help protect the liver.*

Q. Why is Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice in the product?

A. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), or DGL, is commonly used for detoxification in Asia and helps offer protection to the liver.* Its antioxidant activity helps protect DNA against damage.* We use the deglycyrrhizinated version of licorice root so there’s no contraindication for people with high blood pressure.

Q. Why is there fructose in Cleanse for Life?

A. Cleanse for Life includes a small amount of natural fructose (fruit sugar) because it provides a pleasant taste and feeds the body a steady stream of carbohydrates for energy. We do not use high-fructose corn syrup or any artificial flavors or sweeteners in any products.

Q. Why are B vitamins in Cleanse for Life?

A. A healthy amount of B vitamins is needed to support your metabolism to break down fats and carbohydrates. Daily B vitamins can also support your immune system and help maintain muscle tone, healthy skin, and steady energy.

Q. I see you offer Cleanse for Life in liquid and powder. Which is more effective for nutritional cleansing?

A. Both products offer the same potency from its ingredient.

Q. Are there any contraindications when performing Cleanse Days?

A. Because of the reduced calories, Cleanse Days should not be performed by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. In addition, those on medication or with a medical condition should consult a physician before Deep Cleansing.

Q. Should someone on blood thinners perform Cleanse Days?

A. If you’re on blood thinners or any other medication, we strongly advise you seek supervision of your healthcare professional. Your physician will need to monitor your Pt levels if you choose to cleanse. Performing Cleanse Days may result in natural thinning of the blood. This is because you are drinking lots of fluids and limiting caloric intake. For more information, click here.

Q. Should athletes and “thin” people use Cleanse for Life?

A. Athletes and thin people can benefit from Cleanse for Life. We regard nutritional cleansing to be the “missing link” to many health benefits such as vitality, more energy and better absorption of nutrients.

When preparing for competition such as endurance events, Deep Cleansing should be avoided because limiting caloric intake may deplete muscle glycogen.

Q. I get headaches while Deep Cleansing. What can I do about them?

A. First-time cleansers may experience mild headaches (for up to a week) as a common caffeine withdrawal symptom from giving up coffee or caffeinated soda. If necessary, headaches can usually be alleviated by eating an IsaDelight® dark chocolate (approximately 10mg of caffeine per piece) or drinking a cup of green tea.

Q. I experience leg cramping while Deep Cleansing. What can I do to avoid the cramping?

A. Some cleansers will experience leg cramps if they are receiving insufficient mineral electrolytes—magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium. These can be alleviated by taking IsaFlush® and IsaCalcium®, eating 1 or 2 IsaDelight pieces, and/or snacking on nuts, fruits or leafy green vegetables. If cramping continues or becomes chronic, please be sure to follow up with a visit to your doctor’s office.

Q. I experience constipation while Deep Cleansing. How can I make sure to stay regular?

A. The key to avoiding constipation during a Cleanse Day is to keep dietary fiber intake high on Shake Days. Our recommendation is to gradually increase fiber intake to 25-30g daily in line with recommendations from the National Fiber Council. Getting enough is easily achieved by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as taking advantage of products such as FiberPro and SlimCakes®. Regular water intake also works with fiber to help alleviate constipation. If constipation continues beyond a few days, please be sure to follow up with a visit to your doctor’s office.

On Cleanse Days, you may also wish to include some fiber by adding FiberPro to your Cleanse for Life drink throughout the day.

Q. I feel cold when Deep Cleansing in winter. How can I stay warm?

A. Customers may feel cold while cleansing because they are drinking cold water and liquids regularly and avoiding regular amounts of food, which in itself produces a thermal effect during digestion. To alleviate feelings of coldness during cleansing in the winter months, consider drinking Cleanse for Life and accompanying water and herbal teas at warm temperatures.

Q. I feel flu-like symptoms or feel like I may be becoming sick while Deep Cleansing. How can I avoid this feeling?

A. If you begin to feel like you are coming down with the flu, please stop your Cleanse Day, return to Shake Days, and be sure to follow up with a doctor’s visit. If it turns out you have caught a bug, you may need medical treatment and steady nutrition for your immune system.

Q. I experience “flushing” when I cleanse. Is this harmful? How can I avoid it?

A. Customers may experience “flushing” while on the program. This reaction is safe and may be related to an individual sensitivity to nicotinic acid, a form of niacin. Flushing can be avoided by taking the following products, which contain nicotinic acid, separately: Cleanse for Life, Ionix Supreme® and Natural Accelerator®. Because Natural Accelerator contains other ingredients that may result in a more pronounced flushing experience, it should be taken with food or replaced with Antioxidants.

Q. I have experienced an allergic reaction while Deep Cleansing. What should I do?

A. If you experience an allergic reaction, please discontinue whichever product may have been associated with the reaction and be sure to follow up with a doctor’s visit. Please also report your reaction or any other serious adverse event to nutrition@isagenix.net

Q. I feel dizzy, like I will pass out when I’m cleansing. Could this be because my blood pressure is too low?

A. Yes. Lower blood pressure may be a natural result of performing Cleanse Days. If you have low blood pressure or are on blood pressure medications, please have your doctor monitor you and make adjustments as necessary before and while cleansing. (Reviewed by Dr. Dennis Harper.) Dizziness can also be caused by blood sugar becoming too low (See next question.)

Q. I have diabetes. Should I be worried about my blood glucose rising too high or falling too low?

A. Blood glucose levels should be monitored closely while on the program if you have diabetes. Not every individual will have similar results and you may need to make modifications as necessary. Please consult your doctor before adjusting medication. (Reviewed by Dr. Dennis Harper)

Q. How should someone who is diabetic and insulin dependent use Cleanse for Life?

A. We strongly advise anyone who is diabetic perform Cleanse Days only under close medical supervision. A physician will be able to help a patient with diabetes monitor glucose levels, modify medication and transition to short-acting insulin versus long-acting insulin when needed for cleansing. For more information, click here.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.