Beta-carotene

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Recommended supplements include vitamin C, beta-carotene, zinc, coenzyme Q10, and quercetin. Antibiotic herbal teas may be helpful. Symptomatic relief from sinusitis can be eased through moist heat packs, steam inhalation, and nasal irrigation. Massaging areas of the foot, using the principles of reflexology, can provide relief of sinusitis. See also: Allergies, Headaches. Skin Cancer In the United States, skin cancers are the leading type of malignant disease. Forty to 50 percent of all people develop the condition at least once by the time they are 65.

Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts

In addition, a proper diet, especially one that includes natural antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, can ease or prevent many eye problems. Eat yellow, orange, or dark-green vegetables daily to ensure an adequate supply of these nutrients. BAGS BENEATH THE EYES In the course of aging, the skin and the muscles underlying it can lose tone and sag. If fluids accumulate beneath the flaccid skin, bags beneath the eyes become noticeable. Possible causes of bags underneath the eyes include sleep deprivation, allergies, aging, and excessive consumption of salt or alcohol.

Permanent Remissions Robert Hass, M.S. See book keywords and concepts

You're probably familiar with beta-carotene, the plant form of vitamin A. But the most powerful cancer-clobbering carotenoid is actually a compound called lycopene. Lycopene is the carotenoid most efficient at quenching the type of free radicals caused by cigarette smoke and air pollution. The foods with the highest concentration of lycopene in the ordinary American diet are tomato sauce (including ketchup and tomato-based barbecue sauces), guava, watermelon, and pink grapefruit.

The Permanent Remissions program contains the latest information on the carotene content including lycopene, alpha- and beta-carotene, lutein, and xeaxanthin, of foods and supermarket food products. The Permanent Remissions program will help build you a healthy diet based on the latest phytonutrient research on these disease-fighting compounds from vegetables and fruits. The program will graph the amino-acid content of foods and recipes.

The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing: A Comprehensive A-Z Listing of Common and Chronic Illnesses and Their Proven Natural Treatments Gary Null, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

Squash, almonds, and carrots are high in beta-carotene, while wheat germ and nuts are good sources of vitamin E. Because these foods are high in fiber, they stimulate the immune-enhancing cells of our intestinal lining, and cleanse the colon of toxins. Fiber helps prevent intestinal infections as well. Raw foods are good sources of enzymes, but should not be eaten if there is a problem with diarrhea. Be sure to get your produce cleaned off before eating it. A good way to wash foods is with food-grade hydrogen peroxide from the pharmacy.

Zinc boosts the immune system, as do beta-carotene, ascorbic acid, and the B-complex vitamins. Homeopathy Homeopathic remedies, which are chosen according to the patient's presenting symptoms, can be highly successful in the treatment of ear pain and infections, and in the prevention of reinfection. A physician looks for the severity of pain, and whether or not there is fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, the color of the ear and the presence of fluid are taken into account. These are some common remedies a homeopath might choose: •Belladonna...

Supplements that build the child's immune system are essential fatty acids, zinc, beta-carotene, ascorbic acid, and B vitamins. A mother can take these nutrients and pass them on to her child during breast-feeding. Several homeopathic remedies can alleviate ear infections. Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia) Anorexia nervosa is a long-term refusal to eat, stemming from physical, mental, and emotional factors. It's a problem seen mostly in women, particularly teenagers, who typically start out on a weight-loss program but then don't know when to stop.

The value of antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene; vitamins A, C, and E; flavonoids; selenium; glutathione; superoxide dismutase; coenzyme Q10; and grape seeds cannot be overestimated in disease fighting and prevention. Antioxidants attack free radicals before they do irrevocable damage. Many clinical studies confirm their protective effects, while other research shows that antioxidants increase a patient's tolerance of chemotherapy and radiation. •Vitamin C...Vitamin C is the prime nutrient when it comes to overall support of the immune system.

The Complete Book of Alternative Nutrition Selene Y. Craig, Jennifer Haigh, Sari Harrar and the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books See book keywords and concepts

This group, which includes vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and selenium, is believed to protect human cells from free radical damage, a process that may play a role in the early development of cancer. Besides being rich in nutrients, ancestral diets also tend to be low in fat. And whether it's on your steak or hanging over your belt, fat is a well-documented risk factor for cancer. Since our ancestors ate a lean diet and were themselves fit and trim, they were doubly protected.

Smart Medicine for Healthier Living : Practical A-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults Janet Zand, LAc, OMD, Allan N. Spreed, MD, CNC, James B. LaValle, RPh, ND See book keywords and concepts

Green and yellow vegetables are especially recommended. The beta-carotene they contain is an important nutrient for all conditions involving the skin. NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ¦ Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a good source of sulfur, a trace mineral that helps to fight parasites and fungi. It can be applied directly to the affected area in cream or spray form. Follow the directions on the product label. HERBAL TREATMENT ¦ Balsam of Peru is useful for many skin conditions. Apply it to the affected area two or three times a day for two to three weeks.

Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition Paul Pitchford See book keywords and concepts

In their dried state—the usual commercial form of these products—we find, in addition to chlorophyll, the highest sources of protein, beta-carotene, and nucleic acids of any animal or plant food. Their very large store of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) is known to benefit cellular renewal and to reverse aging. Too much nucleic acid, however, can raise the uric acid level in the body, causing calcium depletion, kidney stones, and gout. Such problems haven't generally arisen because standard dosages of micro-algae contain safe amounts of nucleic acid.

In contrast to unrefined oils, both expeller- and solvent-extracted refined oils have been depleted of certain vital nutrients, including lecithin, chlorophyll, vitamin E, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and phosphorus. The temperatures reached in the refining process often exceed 450°F—far above the temperature at which the unsaturated fatty acids transform into a synthetic fat called "trans-fatty acids." (Trans-fatty acid formation begins at 320°F.

Staying Healthy in a Risky Environment: The New York University Medical Center Family Guide Arthur C. Upton, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

Retinoids, found in fruits and vegetables, are substances that have been shown in laboratory studies to lower the incidence of some cancers, including cancers of the esophagus, pancreas, colon, skin, breast, and bladder. beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A present in the yellow, orange, and red fruits and vegetables, seems to be an important retinoid that helps protect against cancer.

The components needed to build vitamin A (such as beta-carotene) are found in vegetables. People at risk of toxic exposure include anyone taking large doses for treatment of skin conditions, such as acne, who continues taking it without doctor's supervision; food faddists taking large daily doses of fat-soluble vitamin preparations; and anyone eating foods with high vitamin A content, such as animal liver. Route of Exposure: Ingestion. Symptoms of Exposure: Accidental massive ingestion is generally seen in infants and young children.

Smart Medicine for Healthier Living : Practical A-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults Janet Zand, LAc, OMD, Allan N. Spreed, MD, CNC, James B. LaValle, RPh, ND See book keywords and concepts

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ¦ Take 25,000 international units of beta-carotene twice a day for five to seven days. ¦ Take 500 to 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C with bioflavonoids three times a day for five to seven days. ¦ Take 25 milligrams of zinc three times a day for seven days. Take zinc with food to prevent stomach upset. HERBAL TREATMENT ¦ Bilberry is high in bioflavonoids that act to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is especially good for the eyes. Choose a product containing 25 percent anthocyani-dins (also called PCOs) and take 80 milligrams twice daily.

Also take 5,000 international units of beta-carotene twice a day. Continue this regimen until the wound heals. Note: If you have high blood pressure, limit your intake of supplemental vitamin E to.a total of 400 international units daily. If you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner), consult your physician before taking supplemental vitamin E. ¦ Zinc helps to boost the immune system. Take 15 to 25 milligrams twice a day for up to ten days following a puncture wound. Take zinc with food to prevent stomach upset.

Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition Paul Pitchford See book keywords and concepts

Since they all contain ample protein, beta-carotene, omega-3 and/or GLA fatty acids, and nucleic acid, it is understandable that these micro-algae will share some common healing properties. In the sections which follow, the unique properties and best uses of each type of micro-alga will be given. Once specific properties are identified, it is then clear that certain algae will be better suited to specific imbalances and certain types of individuals. All micro-alga distributors refute this idea, quite possibly because such descriptions can limit sales.

Beta-carotene foods with particular protective value for these organs include carrot, winter squash, pumpkin, broccoli, parsley, kale, turnip and mustard greens, watercress, wheat or barley grass, common green, blue-green, and golden micro-algae, and the herbs yerba santa leaf, mullein leaf, and nettles. The green members of this group are especially important, as their chlorophyll inhibits viruses and also helps the lungs discharge the residues from chemical fumes, coal dust, cigarette smoke, etc. (The herb yerba santa is a specific remedy for this purpose.

Used in the treatment of: Anemia, hepatitis, gastritis and other inflammations, diabetes, hypoglycemia, obesity, overeating, malnourishment, poor skin tone, and most chronic skin outbreaks; offers ample immune-strengthening nutrients such as beta-carotene, chlorophyll, and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). It is contraindicat-ed for those with signs of coldness accompanied by water retention or other forms of dampness (mucus, yeasts, cysts, etc.) in the lower abdomen.

Prescription Medicines, Side Effects and Natural Alternatives American Medical Publishing See book keywords and concepts

Possible alternatives — Maintaining proper amounts of vitamin A and beta-carotene are essential for healthy lungs and the prevention of lung disorders. Vitamin E supplements can also prevent lung problems. Other important vitamins are the B's and vitamin C. Inadequate amounts of copper in the human body can lead to many and frequent problems with the lungs. Taking a selenium supplement is helpful. Optimal magnesium intake might prevent or treat a number of lung disorders that Atrovent is used to treat.

Smart Medicine for Healthier Living : Practical A-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults Janet Zand, LAc, OMD, Allan N. Spreed, MD, CNC, James B. LaValle, RPh, ND See book keywords and concepts

Take 5,000 international units of beta-carotene two or three times daily. Note: If you are pregnant, or intend to get pregnant, or if you have liver disease, consult your doctor before taking supplemental vitamin A. Pregnant women should not ingest a total of more than 25,000 international units of supplemental vitamin A per week from all sources. ¦ The B vitamins are required for intracellular metabolism in the tissues of the eyes. Combined with vitamins C and E, the B-complex vitamins are especially beneficial to the eyes.

The Food Bible Judith Wills See book keywords and concepts

Research to date seems to show that it is better to get your antioxidants as part of your natural diet rather than as supplements, particularly in the case of beta-carotene. The antioxidant minerals and phytochemicals are discussed in more detail in the pages ahead. ¦ Vitamin K The last of the fat-soluble vitamins, vitamin K is essential for the normal clotting of blood. It is widespread in food in small quantities, but best sources are dark green leafy vegetables and the skins of fruit and vegetables.

Symptoms: Their Causes & Cures : How to Understand and Treat 265 Health Concerns the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books See book keywords and concepts

Beets may mimic the presence of blood, as can the phenolph-thalein found in over-the-counter laxatives. beta-carotene supplements may color urine slightly yellow or orange, while vitamin B6 may evoke a distinctive smell. Urine turns green with a foul odor after you eat asparagus. The drug Risanpin, an antibiotic usually prescribed for tuberculosis or staph infections, can turn urine a shade of blue or green. And some diagnostic drugs will paint your urine a peculiar hue, but they're prescribed for that express purpose. Very yellow urine means you're dehydrated and not drinking enough water.

Simply taking in less beta-carotene will get rid of the yellow hue. See a doctor. "If you have jaundice," says Dr. Averhoff, "the underlying conditions must be diagnosed and treated by a physician." You'll also need to see your doctor to get at the root of any other color change. If a heart medication is causing a bluish color, he may be able to alter your dosage or prescribe an alternate medication. See also Jaundice Skin Flaking when to see your doctor • Flaking is accompanied by intense itching. • Flaking areas have become inflamed or infected.

Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid medication or recommend supplements containing some of the antioxidant vitamins—C, E and beta-carotene. Arm against allergies. If your loss of smell comes regularly during hay fever season, you'll need to see an allergist, says Jordan S. Josephson, M.D., an otolaryngologist in Brooklyn. "For a day or two, the usual over-the-counter antihistamines are fine," he says. "But if it lasts more than two weeks, your allergist may recommend nasal steroid sprays or a prescription decongestant." (For more tips on allergy relief, see Nose, Runny, on page 389.

Her advice: Eat fruits, vegetables and other foods rich in zinc and vitamins C, E and A and beta-carotene (it converts to A in the body). "Ample evidence shows that these so-called antioxidants may counteract the sun-related oxygen damage to the eye's cells and slow down age-related vision loss," says Dr. Faye. Consider supplements for the eyes. For good measure, take a commercial eye supplement featuring the prime antioxidants mentioned above. "My patients report improved well-being after taking these nutrients and many demonstrated improved vision," says Dr. Faye.

If you have a package-a-day carrot habit or eat lots of foods rich in the nutrient beta-carotene, your skin might become yellowish. "Little kids often get this from eating lots of vegetable baby food," explains Robert E. Clark, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Dermatologic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology Unit at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina. When an overall yellow color (jaundice) follows flulike symptoms, it can signal a serious problem, such as hepatitis, gallbladder trouble or cirrhosis of the liver.

If you're taking vitamins like beta-carotene or medications that change the color of your urine, then simply consume 10 to 12 eight-ounce glasses of water daily. Invite a chicken to lunch. If your hoarseness is from a cold, try chicken soup. "There's a good scientific basis for chicken soup," says Dr. Levine. The heat creates humidity, and the garlic is a good mucus thinner. If chicken soup isn't your favorite dish, he suggests taking a garlic supplement. Follow the manufacturer's suggestions for the recommended amount. Thin secretions.

Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine Simon Mills and Kerry Bone See book keywords and concepts

The protective ability of curcumin was higher than that of lipoate, alpha-toco-pherol and beta-carotene.39 Curcumin reduced experimentally generated nitrite in vitro. This nitric oxide-scavenging activity was also exhibited by other curcuminoids.40 An aqueous extract of turmeric was also found to be an effective inhibitor of oxidation. This unidentified water-soluble antioxidant from turmeric extended 80% protection to DNA against peroxidative injury and has potential as an antipromoter. The active component may have been an antioxidant protein, which has recently been isolated.

Considerations of the scientific substantiation for antioxidant vitamins and beta-carotene in disease prevention. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1995; 62: S1521-1526 4. Knekt P, Jarvinen R, Sappanen R et al. Dietary flavonoids and the risk of lung cancer and other malignant neoplasms. American Journal of Epidemiology 1997; 146 (3): 223-230 5. Dorant E, van den Brandt PA, Goldbohm RA, Sturmans F. Consumption of onions and reduced risk of stomach carcinoma. Gastroenterology 1996; 110: 12-20 6. Ernst E. Can Allium vegetables prevent cancer? Phytomedicine 1997; 4(1): 79-83 7.

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