Expert: Tonja Wells - 8/12/2008

Question
Tonya
I am a guy in his fifities,overall good health.I try to eat healthy,exercise,and take multi vitamins.
There seems to be a lot of supplements out there that are purported to improve the health of aging people like me.
Some that come to mind are ALA,CLA,Carnitine,CoQ10,DHEA,HGH,the list goes on.
Have any of these actualy been shown to be beneficial?

Answer
Hello Carl,

All of these can be beneficial for the right person.  Without doing a complete health history it would be impossible to say what, if any would be good enough for you. DHEA & HGH is something that should only be done for a short amount of time and only if there is enough heatlh issues to justify it.

I am not a proponent of taking any supplment just because it sounds good but rather is it good for a specific health need for your body.

There are some basic nutrients which can be good for anyone and I will list them below.

I do offer phone consults and you may choose to invest in your health with me or someone locally to see exactly what your body may need.

What are the essential building blocks to good nutrition?
1.   Enzymes to break down foods and aid in digestion/elimination.  Plant based enzymes are good choices.
2.   Probiotics are essential for good flora, which should naturally inhabit the intestinal track.  Probiotics inhibit growth of toxic bacteria and yeast. They are essential for the development of a child’s natural defenses.  Probiotics reduce liver stress, enhance intestinal function and “sweeten” the gut.
3.   Minerals have 3 major functions:  1) they provide the structural materials for building bones and connective tissue; 2) they facilitate the production of both neurotransmitters and hormones; and 3) they function as an integral part of chemical and enzyme reactions, such as the manufacturing of proteins and replicating of DNA.  Most Americans have severe mineral malnutrition, as our soil is void of minerals.  Take minerals if you need an energy boost, and to be certain that your body is receiving the 64 minerals our bodies need DAILY.
4.   Greens – A green drink with a 3/030/40 nutrient value provides complete whole grain nutrition and a balance of protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, EFA’s and minerals.  It provides antioxidant protection, encourages growth of healthy colonic flora, supports the digestion, assists detoxification of the liver and kidneys, and helps protect the body.  It is an excellent way to begin any day.
5.   Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) – Flax See, Omega 3’s and Evening Primrose oil are but a few of the essential fatty acids to choose from.  EFA’s help with various chronic degenerative diseases.  Research has confirmed the positive result of EFA supplementation for more than 60 major health concerns, including allergies, breast tenderness, cancer, heart disease, intestinal disorders, menopause, neurological disease, skin issues, and autoimmune disorders.  Stay away from hydrogenated oils, like margarine and vegetable oils.  Use extra virgin olive oil or grape seed oil instead.
6. Should I consume fiber?
Fiber is essential!  Colon cleansing is important to pull toxins out of the body.  It is suggested to consume 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day.  The second leading cause of death among cancer patients is colon cancer, just behind lung cancer.  Psyllium hulls, slippery elm, apple fiber or oat fiber are excellent choices for your daily needs.


To learn more you can go to my web site at www.yourherbalhealthsolutions.com

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases.  If you have any health problems consult a health practitioner before embarking on any course of treatment.