==========================================

CANCER RESEARCH -- Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. When detected early enough, it often can be successfully treated surgically (colectomy). A new study by Canadian researchers says that there are actually two very different forms of colorectal cancer and that they behave quite differently. Scientists at Mount Sinai Hospital's Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute and the University of Toronto found that 17% of a group of 650 colorectal cancer patients treated between 1989 and 1993 had a genetic abnormality in their cancer cells called microsatellite instability (MSI). The remainder of those in the group had other genetic mutations that led to chromosomal instability (CSI). The study found that those with the MSI form of the disease survived much longer and that their tumors were less likely to spread throughout the body than those with CSI colorectal cancer. The study, published in a recent issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, "may ultimately lead to changes in the clinical management of colorectal cancer," according to Steven Gallinger, M.D., associate professor of surgery at the University of Toronto.

EGG CHOLESTEROL -- A single egg contains about 213 milligrams (mg) of cholesterol which is about two-thirds of the recommended daily limit of 300 mg of cholesterol. However, nearly all the cholesterol in an egg is contained in the yolk.

YOGURT AND LACTOSE -- The organisms that make yogurt what it is also produce lactase to digest the lactose contained in yogurt. Yogurt has only about 75% of the lactose content of an equal amount of milk. Most people with lactose intolerance do not have it very severely and about 70% to 80% of all otherwise healthy lactose-intolerant people should be able to tolerate yogurt quite well. When choosing a yogurt, non-fat is better than frozen yogurt. Consume only about 4 to 6 ounces daily. If yogurt is eaten 5 to 15 minutes before you eat ice cream or other dairy products, any symptoms of lactose-intolerance may be minimized.

FOOD PRESERVATIVE MAY BE ANTIBIOTIC -- A common food preservative used to keep cheese and other food fresh also is a powerful antibiotic, researchers say. Known as "Nisin Z," the preservative is produced by a microbe that turns milk sour. It is harmless to people and used to keep a number of different foods from spoiling. Researchers led by Eefjan Breukink, of Utrecht University in Netherlands, discovered that Nisin Z fights bacteria in a way that is similar to the powerful antibiotic Vancomycin. Both attack a substance found in the cell membranes of some bacteria called Lipid II. Nisin Z kills bacteria by using Lipid II to poke holes in the membranes of cells, thereby causing the leaking of essential molecules. According to a study published in "Science," no strains of bacteria have been found to be resistant to the effects of Nisin Z, unlike so many other antibiotics.

FYI -- It is perfectly all right for a child to receive a childhood vaccination even if he or she has a mild illness, such as a sore throat, ear infection, or head cold.

ZINC INFO -- Sucking on zinc lozenges can cut colds short by an average of seven days, researchers have discovered. Zinc can also dramatically reduce symptoms such as a dry, irritated throat. Zinc does not work for everyone, however. The downside is that zinc has an unpleasant taste. There are, however, lozenges on the market that contain honey and/or citrus that are a lot more palatable. Do not take more than the amount recommended by your doctor as Zinc can be toxic in large doses.

BLESSED SILENCE -- When you engage in too much singing, shouting or even loud talking, your vocal cords may become irritated and develop small growths on the mucous membrane that covers the cords. Vocal cord polyps may go away with simple resting of your voice, but in some rare cases surgery is required.

LOTIONS AND POTIONS -- Beauty consultants believe that certain herbal formulas have restorative powers that can help smooth skin affected by cellulite. You will have to decide for yourself how effective they really are - if at all. Add sage, cypress, or juniper oils to your bathwater, suggests Cal-a-Vie Spa's Kim Ulen. These fragrant plant oils, frequently used for a type of massage called aromatherapy, are absorbed directly through your skin and combat cellulite from the inside out, she says. Aromatherapy oils are available in many health food stores.

==========================================

THE HERBAL CORNER

==========================================

Did you know that TEA TREE can be used:

• topically to speed the healing of skin problems?
• to fight fungal infections?
• to boost the immune system and fight infectious disease?
• on pets to kill fleas and ticks?

In 1923, an Australian curator and chemist, Dr. Penfold, conducted a study on Tea Tree leaves and discovered that their essential oils are 13 times stronger as an antiseptic bactericide than carbolic acid, considered the standard in the early 1900's. The oil contains 50% to 60% Terpenes, 6% to 8% Cineol, which causes its camphor-like odor, and several alcohols.

In 1933, The Australian Journal of Pharmacy, The American Journal of the National Medical Association, and The British Medical Journal reported that "Tea Tree oil is a powerful disinfectant, non-poisonous, non-irritating and has been used successfully in a very wide range of septic conditions." Australian Tea Tree oil is also mentioned in the British Pharmaceutical Codex of 1949, the U.K. Medicine List, the Dispensary of the U.S., and the Eclectic Materia Medica.

During World War II (WWII), Tea Tree oil was considered a standard issue item for all first aid kits for Army and Navy units in tropical regions. The demand for Tea Tree oil exceeded the supply. After WWII, synthetic drugs gained in popularity and the use of Tea Tree oil in medicine waned.

In more recent times, a renewed interest in natural, non-toxic alternatives has triggered a resurgence in Tea Tree oil research. In 1985, Dr. Paul Belaiche, Chief of the Phytotherapy Department at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Paris, worked on several double-blind studies involving Tea Tree oil and its application as a remedy for candidiasis, chronic cystitis, staphylococcus, and streptococcus infections, and nail bed fungus. He stated, "the essential oil of Melaleuca has joined the team of major essential oils, and emerges as an antiseptic and antifungal weapon of the first order in phyto-aromatherapy."

Tea Tree is a powerful immunostimulant, increasing the immune system's ability to fight disease. Aromatherapists recommend having Tea Tree available because of its antiseptic action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Tea Tree oil can be applied to disinfect cuts and wounds, pimples, and fungal infections. It is soothing to the skin and mucous membranes, and it is also effective as an insect repellant. Tea Tree can be effective on pets as well, and is known to kill fleas and ticks. Gargling with two drops in a glass of warm water improves sore throats and a few drops rubbed on the chest or back, or used in an inhaler, helps relieve nasal congestion. It is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin without dilution.

Tea Tree oil can be also be used topically to speed the healing of diaper rash, eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, and poison ivy. Simply add one teaspoon of tea tree oil to one-eighth cup of an oil such as almond oil. Apply to affected areas with a cotton ball or soft cloth. To relieve athlete's foot, one or two drops can be applied directly to the affected area. Tea Tree is considered safe, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic.

==========================================

HEALTHY RECIPE-OF-THE-MONTH

==========================================

This dish is based on the classic salad of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil that hails from the island of Capri -- hence the name "Caprese."

• 6 cups hot cooked rigatoni, penne, or ziti (about 3/4 pound uncooked pasta)
• 4 cups chopped plum tomato (about 2-1/2 pounds)
• 1-1/2 cups fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (4 ounces) diced fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1/3 cup (1-1/2 ounces) grated fresh Parmesan or Romano cheese

Yield: 5 servings (serving size: 2 cups).

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories 390 (29% from fat); Fat 12.5g (sat 5g, mono 5.3g, poly 1.2g); Protein 16g; Carbohydrates 54g; Fiber 4.5g; Cholesterol 25mg; Iron 3mg; Sodium 553mg; Calcium 233mg

==========================================

PRODUCT-OF-THE-MONTH

• Life Plus "REAL NRG PLUS"
  Energy-Boosting Nutrients
  Concentrated Powdered Drink Mix

REAL NRG PLUS from Life Plus is an all-natural, concentrated drink mix that provides those energy-boosting nutritional components your body uses for efficient thermogenesis and metabolic function. It combines the selected key amino acids Phenylalanine, Taurine, Glycine, and Tyrosine to facilitate optimal neurotransmission in the brain for maximum physical and mental alertness. It contains simple carbohydrates (fructose, mannitol, and natural fruit concentrates) plus a unique blend of vitamins and minerals which provide fast sources of energy while avoiding excess production of insulin. REAL NRG PLUS provides the equivalent amount of caffeine contained in a regular cup of coffee and is a highly nutritious alternative for those desiring to reduce their coffee intake. The product also contains Saint John's Wort, zinc picolinate, and citric acid and is also very effective for those who are trying to lose weight. Simply dissolve one rounded scoopful in 6 to 8 ounces of water or juice for a pleasant-tasting, energy-rich, naturally orange-flavored health drink! REAL NRG PLUS is featured on our web site at: http://www.aomega.com/ahs/r1026a.htm

==========================================

FEATURED ARTICLE