February / March 1999
( to: Health Newsletter Archive )
Greetings once again to all of you - our valued customers, associates, and subscribers. Welcome to the February / March, 1999 edition of the Archangel Health Newsletter, "One of the longest running internet e-zines dedicated to health, fitness, and nutrition!"
Featured in this month's issue:
- HEALTH BYTES: Facts & Tips For Better Living!
- THE HERBAL CORNER: Featuring Peppermint
- FEATURED ARTICLE: Painkillers
- HEALTH RESOURCES: Health & Fitness Related Links
- HEALTHY RECIPE-OF-THE-MONTH: Peppered Halibut, Green Beans, and Olive Salad
- PRODUCT SPECIALS: Cardio-Chelex & TouchFire
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HEALTH BYTES
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HERBAL COLD COMFORT -- Various herbs may be beneficial in the fight against cold symptoms. For fever and muscle aches, Ginger contains the chemicals that fight rhinoviruses which are the most common cold-causing germs. For stuffy nose and tight chest, try Anise which acts as an expectorant to clear phlegm. For cough and sore throat, try Marshmallow which contains mucilage, a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory substance. Marshmallow soothes swollen mucous membranes in the throat. Finally, for combating fatigue and general malaise, use Echinacea which increases levels of properdin, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that helps the immune system fight viruses and bacteria.
HEALTHY GUMS -- People who do not get enough calcium or vitamin C in their diets have a greater risk of gum disease. Adults need at least 60 mg of vitamin C a day, from dietary sources like orange juice, and, depending on their age, 1000 to 1200 mg of calcium, from dietary sources like milk.
SWALLOWING GUM UNSAFE -- Swallowed chewing gum can get stuck in a child's gut, block the esophagus or colon, and cause other minor to serious health problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Pediatricians at Nemours Children's Clinic in Orlando, Florida, reported several cases of children under the age of 5 who regularly swallowed their gum and who ended up in the hospital with obstructed digestive tracts. For this reason, it is best to withhold chewing gum from children who cannot understand the risks involved.
SORE THROAT CURE? -- Mix a half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and gargle the solution for 30 seconds to a minute. Repeat three to four times daily as needed. The salt sterilizes the bacteria in the back of your throat and promotes the healing of inflamed tissues.
SIGHT SAVERS -- Dark-green leafy vegetables have long been known to protect against age-related macular degeneration - the leading cause of blindness in people over 50 years old. But other fruits and veggies can save your sight too, says a recent study. Orange peppers, corn, and red seedless grapes were found to be equally good sources of the two nutrients - lutien and zeaxanthin - that are believed to lower the risks of this devastating eye disorder.
GINKGO HELPS MEMORY -- Researchers at the New York Institute for Medical Research report that ginkgo biloba is effective in improving the mental performance and social functioning of patients with Alzheimer's Disease and dementia. Reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study showed that one-third of the participants improved memory and did not experience additional memory loss.
THE ALLERGY-BEHAVIOR LINK -- If you child is hyperactive, aggressive, or acting out, have them evaluated for allergies. A study at the National Jewish Medical and Research Center, in Denver, Colorado, found a genetic link between allergies and behavior problems in children. Treating one disorder may therefore treat the other. If you have allergies and are depressed, ask your doctor for a prescription antihistamine; over-the-counter ones may make you more depressed.
ANALGESIC WARNING -- Many painkillers have the potential for causing adverse reactions or interacting with other drugs. Taking too much of any drug, even aspirin, can be dangerous. Bleeding problems are among the most serious side effects of these drugs. Signs of a bleeding abnormality, such as easy bruising, maroon or tarry stools, or bleeding gums, warrant prompt medical attention.
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THE HERBAL CORNER
* Featuring "Peppermint"
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Did you know that PEPPERMINT may help to relieve:
- various gastrointestinal disorders?
- the symptoms of indigestion?
- headaches and sinus pain?
- fevers, colds, and influenza?
Aside from being used in popular consumer products - from chewing gum to breath and air fresheners - peppermint is also a potent herbal remedy used for a wide variety of medicinal purposes. This pleasant-tasting herb has been used as a treatment for indigestion since the era of ancient Egypt. Menthol, the principal active ingredient of peppermint, stimulates the stomach lining, thereby reducing the amount of time food spends in the stomach. It also slightly anesthetizes and relaxes the muscles of the digestive system, thus reducing spasms which lead to abdominal pain.
Peppermint is available as commercial tea, tinctures, and fresh or dried leaves and flowers. High doses of the essential oil of Peppermint serves as an analgesic and a calming agent. It is also cooling, and is thereby good for skin problems, fevers, headaches and migraines, which are linked to overheating. Peppermint oil is also an effective antibacterial and antiseptic agent for combating infections. Used as an inhalant, it can be used for clearing nasal passages and fighting congestion.
The pleasant smell and taste of Peppermint tea may help to soothe nerves (and thus a nervous stomach) and provide needed relief of symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders, such as: heartburn, gas, flatulence, bloating, abdominal pain, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome or spastic colon, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's Disease, diarrhea, etc. Other target ailments for peppermint include: cramps (including menstrual cramps), nausea associated with migraines, morning sickness, travel sickness, insomnia, fever, anxiety and nervousness, colds, and flu. Applied topically, peppermint can aid in the relief of itching, rashes, and inflammations.
The chemical and nutrient constituents of peppermint include: essential oils, menthol, menthone, jasmone, methyl acetate, tannins, terpenes, and vitamin C. Although considered safe with no known negative side-effects, pure menthol or pure peppermint extract can be extremely toxic when ingested. Only diluted preparations should be used. Peppermint may also interfere with iron absorption.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
* "Painkillers"
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What are Painkillers (analgesics)?
Painkillers are substances that give temporary relief from pain without causing a loss of consciousness. There are two major categories of analgesics: non-narcotic and narcotic. The most commonly used non-narcotic painkillers are aspirin and other salicylates, acetaminophen, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen, which are available in both prescription and non-prescription forms. Non-narcotic painkillers are by far the most commonly used of all medications. In addition to controlling pain, these analgesics also lower fever and counter inflammation.
Narcotic painkillers include the opiates and opioids, which are natural or artificial forms of opium. Codeine, propoxyphene (e.g. Wygesic and Darvon), meperidine (Demerol), and morphine are common examples. These drugs are usually used on a short-term basis to control severe pain such as the kind suffered by cancer patients and persons with broken bones. Many prescription analgesics contain a combination of narcotic and non-narcotic painkillers - common combinations include: acetaminophen and codeine, aspirin and codeine, propoxyphene and aspirin, and aspirin, caffeine, and butalbital (Fiorinol). These drugs are used as an alternative to preparations that contain only narcotic ingredients for painful conditions that are not adequately alleviated by non-narcotic agents.
How do Painkillers Work?
Opiates and opioids apparently work through specific receptors in the central nervous system. Aspirin and the other nonprescription drugs are thought to work by blocking the body's production of particular types of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that are produced throughout the body.
Secondary Side Effects
The most common side effect of aspirin and the stronger NSAIDs is gastrointestinal irritation. This can be minimized by taking them with meals or milk. Acetaminophen does not cause as many intestinal side effects as aspirin, but it should be used with caution by persons who have liver or kidney disorders. The combination of aspirin and acetaminophen is especially damaging to the kidneys, as is heavy alcohol consumption and long-term acetaminophen use is damaging to the liver.
Codeine often causes nausea, dizziness, and constipation. A more serious problem, however, involves the tendency of codeine and other narcotic drugs to produce drowsiness. Thus, these agents should not be taken by anyone who must remain alert. In addition, narcotic painkillers should never be taken in combination with alcoholic beverages, antihistamines, other allergy or cold pills, anticonvulsants, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, or any other substance that depresses the central nervous system. Narcotics increase the effects of these drugs on the brain, and a fatal overdose can result from their combined use.
The potentially addictive effect of opiates and other narcotic agents is the major drawback to their long-term use. However, overconcern about addiction has resulted in their underuse in the control of severe pain in a patient with terminal cancer.
Some painkillers have beneficial secondary effects. For example, low-dose aspirin may help prevent a heart attack or stroke by preventing clot formation. By the same token, aspirin can cause bleeding problems.
Self-Treatment
Self-treatment is crucial in managing most pain. A person who suffers from a chronic pain disorder, such as arthritis, learns by trial and error how best to manage their pain. Often, finding a pleasant diversion can do wonders for alleviating pain. Vigorous aerobic exercise increases secretion of endorphins, brain chemicals that are natural painkillers. Correcting poor posture and changing work habits often can eliminate certain muscle aches.
Alternative pain therapies that may be used independently or in conjunction with painkillers include: accupressure, massage / physical therapy, electrostimulation, relaxation training, and herbal formulations. Collagen supporting nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and certain marine extracts are known for their positive effects on joint function and mobility, thus helping to relieve pains associated with arthritis, bursitis, and other inflammations of the bones and connective tissues. See http://www.aomega.com/ahs/cat07.htm for a list of products known effective for supporting healthy joint function.
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HEALTH RESOURCES
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Site #1: GLOBAL HEALTH AND FITNESS (GHF)
** http://www.global-fitness.com **
Visit GHF where you'll find customized programs, healthy recipes and meal plans, a free nutrition analysis, and much more! Subscribe to their free newsletter by sending an e-mail to info@global-fitness.com. Members now receive free fitness consulting, fitness tracking software, and a FREE vacation!
Site #2: HEALTHY IDEAS
** http://healthyideas.com/ **
Prevention Magazine's Healthy Ideas is the premier interactive health magazine for the latest in weight-loss, fitness, recipes and natural healing. Find health news, forums, free dieting tools, menu planners, and much more.
Site #3: ALLERGY LEARNING LAB
** http://www.allergylearninglab.com/ **
The Allergy Learning Lab is an information-rich facility devoted to people who have allergies or the symptoms of allergies. A free A.L.L. membership offers personalized allergy evaluations, detailed allergy information, personal lab area, and direct e-mail access to a medical board.
Site #4: RXLIST INTERNET DRUG INDEX
** http://www.rxlist.com/ **
A reference guide to prescription medications. Search the database by drug brand names, generic names, symptoms, side effects, or drug interactions. Provides detailed technical information about each type of drug, including clinical studies, indications and usage, adverse reactions, warnings and precautions, and more.
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HEALTHY RECIPE-OF-THE-MONTH
* Peppered Halibut, Green Beans, and Olive Salad
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- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup fat-free chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed
- 4 (6-ounce) halibut steaks (about 1 inch thick)
- Olive oil-flavored cooking spray
- 3 tablespoons freshly cracked mixed peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 cups torn red leaf lettuce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 medium tomatoes, each cut into 8 wedges
- 1/4 cup chopped Greek ripe olives
2. Coat halibut with cooking spray; rub peppercorns and salt over both sides of steaks. Prepare grill. Place halibut on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 3 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Break halibut into pieces; discard skin and bones.
3. Place lettuce in a large bowl, and add lemon juice, tossing to coat. Divide lettuce mixture evenly among 4 plates. Arrange green beans, halibut, and tomato wedges evenly on plates, and sprinkle each serving with chopped olives. Drizzle vinaigrette over salads. Yield: 4 servings.
CALORIES 274 (26% from fat); FAT 7.8g (sat 1.1g, mono 3.6g, poly 2.1g); PROTEIN 38.3g; CARB 13.5g; FIBER 4.1g; CHOL 80mg; IRON 4.7mg; SODIUM 620mg; CALC 168mg
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FEBRUARY PRODUCT SPECIALS FROM LIFE PLUS
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For February, 1999 only - if you purchase:
(4) bottles* of CARDIO-CHELEX; product #4035 (small size),
you will get either:
(1) bottle of TOUCHFIRE HIS; product #1103, for FREE -OR-
(1) bottle of TOUCHFIRE HERS; product #1104 for FREE!
* ASAP autoship members can buy 3 and get 1 FREE!
Cardio-Chelex contains naturally chelating preventive nutrients for the heart and circulatory system; product details are featured at http://www.aomega.com/ahs/c4034b.htm
TouchFire His and Hers are liquid herbal formulations that enhance the sexual desire in men and women while nutritionally supporting the reproductive and hormonal systems; TouchFire product details are featured at: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/t1103b.htm -and- http://www.aomega.com/ahs/t1104b.htm
PRODUCT ORDERING: The easiest and fastest way to order is via our secured online order form at: https://id3484.securedata.net/archangelhealth/secure/lptrans.htm (If you are already a Life Plus member, please remember to include your Member ID (PIN) when completing the order form - thanks!). Orders may also be placed directly with Life Plus. Please see http://www.aomega.com/ahs/ordering.htm for additional information.
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If you know someone who might benefit from the information contained herein, please feel free to forward this newsletter on to them - we would appreciate it!
If you would like additional information or if you have a health question or concern, please send an e-mail to us at ahs-news@aomega.com. Do you have a favorite health-related web site or health topic you would like to see covered in our newsletter? Just write to us and let us know what it is and we'll consider including it in a future issue.
May God Bless You and Your HEALTH!
Sandi and Darrin Quiles
Archangel Health Store
AlphaOmega Marketing
Archangel Health Store: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/index.htm
Health Newsletter Archive: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/news.htm
Win a FREE Health Product: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/win.htm
Fitness Article Archive: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/fitness.htm
Copyright © 1999 by Sandi and Darrin Quiles. All rights reserved.
Please note: the information contained herein has been compiled from various sources. The above statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. We make no claims, either expressed or implied, that any products mentioned in this newsletter will cure disease, replace prescription medication, or supersede sound medical advice.
