MedWorm: Heart Disease

Heart disease 'raises the risk of dementia', new study claims

the Mail online | Diet — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 07:24:55 +0100

Those who suffer from angina or heart attacks are more likely to develop dementia in old age, a study shows. (Source: the Mail online | Diet)

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Heart disease is linked to worse mental processes that, in turn, predict the onset of dementia

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 06:11:26 +0100

Coronary heart disease is associated with a worse performance in mental processes such as reasoning, vocabulary and verbal fluency, according to a study of 5,837 middle-aged Whitehall civil servants published in the European Heart Journal. The study also found that the longer ago the heart disease had been diagnosed, the worse was the person's cognitive performance and this effect was particularly marked in men. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Key mechanism of cellular damage in aging and disease discovered

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 06:11:25 +0100

Researchers have taken a first snapshot of how a class of highly reactive molecules inflicts cellular damage as part of aging, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer's disease to name a few. Researchers have discovered a tool that can monitor related damage and determine the degree to which antioxidant drugs effectively combat disease. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Trans-fats banned in california

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 03:14:57 +0100

California becomes the first US state to ban trans-fats, chemically altered vegetable oils linked to heart disease. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Trans fats banned in california restaurant food

Reuters: Health — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 00:40:34 +0100

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation on Friday making California the first U.S. state to prohibit restaurants from preparing food with trans fats, which clog arteries and raise the risk of heart disease. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Chronic kidney disease is often unrecognized among patients with coronary heart disease: the regards cohort study

American Journal of Nephrology — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:01:35 +0100

Am J Nephrol 2009;29:10-17 (DOI:10.1159/000148645) (Source: American Journal of Nephrology)

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Key mechanism of cellular damage in aging and disease unravelled

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 11:00:00 +0100

Damage can be measured by newly captured events in cell's powerhouse Researchers have taken a first snapshot of how a class of highly reactive molecules inflicts cellular damage as part of aging, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer's disease to name a few. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Management of hypertension in patients with cardiac disease: use of renin-angiotensin blocking agents.

The American Journal of Medicine — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 09:14:51 +0100

Management of hypertension in patients with cardiac disease: use of renin-angiotensin blocking agents.

Am J Med. 2008 Aug;121(8 Suppl):S8-15

Authors: Prisant LM

Inhibition of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) is beneficial in patient populations with left ventricular dysfunction or systolic heart failure (HF) and other forms of heart disease. In high-risk patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), treatment with these agents reduces the mortality rate and improves secondary outcomes. Individuals with stable CHD who are at lower risk benefit less from treatment. RAS inhibition also provides some clinical benefit to patients with diastolic HF and preserved left ventricular function. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in patients with hypertension. Treatment with an ARB reduces the risk for adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with hypertension and LVH. The benefits correlate with regression of LVH, and the effect is independent of the degree of blood pressure lowering. Finally, studies indicate that a history of hypertension in patients who have not had a myocardial infarction (MI) increases the risk for HF after MI; the risk is decreased in patients with hypertension who receive treatment with a RAS inhibitor.

PMID: 18638617 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: The American Journal of Medicine)

Mediterranean diet leads to lower mortality, enhanced longevity

NaturalNews.com — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Sticking more closely to a Mediterranean diet may lead to a longer life, according to a new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The researchers say that the study is the first to examine a connection between the diet and mortality in a U.S. population.Researchers examined data on more than 160,000 women and 200,000 men who had filled out detailed questionnaires about their eating habits, weight, age, smoking status and other factors known to affect health. The researchers then ranked participants based on how closely they held to either a traditional Mediterranean diet or an alternate Mediterranean diet.Participants scored higher for adherence to a traditional Mediterranean diet if they ate more fruits and nuts, grains, beans, fish and vegetables (excluding potatoes), and if they ate less dairy, meat or saturated fat. Those who drank a moderate amount of alcohol, defined as five to 25 grams per day for women and 10 to 50 grams per day for men, also scored higher.The alternative Mediterranean diet was scored similarly, but included only whole (not refined) grains, did not include dairy products, counted fruits and nuts separately, used the same alcohol standard for men and women, and deducted points for meat only if it was red or processed.The people who stuck most closely to either Mediterranean diet were significantly less likely to die during the first five years after the surveys were taken.Among women who followed the alternate Mediterranean diet most closely, mortality was reduced by 22 percent, with mortality form heart disease 21 percent lower and deaths from cancer lowered by 14 percent. The numbers for men were similar.The association between the Mediterranean diet and decreased mortality seemed strongest among smokers, particularly smokers who were of healthy body weight.Among both smokers and non-smokers, those who were obese did not appear to have their lives lengthened by the Mediterranean diet. (Source: NaturalNews.com)

Using seawater in agriculture and its significance for human survival

NaturalNews.com — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) The general public is slowly becoming aware of some of the health benefits of antioxidants. Health-conscious individuals have known about their many benefits, which include the ability to fight cancer and heart disease, for a long time now. The good news is that according to a new study by a group of Italian scientists published in the ACS Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, irrigating cherry tomatoes with diluted seawater was shown to actually increase their level of antioxidants.In this study, the Italian scientists watered one group of cherry tomatoes using freshwater. Another group of cherry tomatoes was watered with a solution of diluted (12%) seawater. The scientists found that the cherry tomatoes grown using the diluted seawater had much higher levels of antioxidants (like vitamin C, vitamin E, dihydrolipoic acid, and chlorogenic acid) than the cherry tomatoes grown using freshwater.Some people may be thinking that this news isn't such a big deal, but nothing could be further from the truth. Right now, the world is facing an unprecedented global water shortage. According to a report from the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), 70% of the world's freshwater supply is used in irrigation.According to the report, demands on freshwater ecosystems are being seriously impacted by human population growth and burgeoning worldwide economic activities. The report notes that water withdrawals "have increased six-fold since the 1900s, which is twice the rate of population growth." Being able to use seawater to irrigate crops could mean the difference between life and death for many people.It might be difficult for certain individuals to see the big picture concerning the health of the planet when they are clearly unaware of how to conquer their own personal health challenges. Could it be that they also don't know about the amazing research done by Dr. Robert Cutler which suggests that antioxidants may, in fact, be longevity determinants? To put that in really simple terms that anyone can understand, Cutler's work has repeatedly shown evidence that the more antioxidants you have in your body, the longer you will live. It's that basic. (Obviously, don't walk out in front of any cars -- this refers to potential longevity here.)This is one reason why many consumer health advocates have made it a life mission to spread this kind of information. The health benefits of antioxidants have turned up in study after study, but how many doctors actually sit down with their patients and emphasize their importance in terms of health and longevity? Sadly, there are way too many doctors who don't inform their patients about the power of foods to prevent (and sometimes even cure) disease despite the fact that this stuff is constantly being reported every month in countless peer-reviewed medical journals.Incidentally, the Italian scientists that conducted the study using diluted seawater and cherry tomatoes aren't the first ones to study using seawater to grow more nutritious plants. In 1976, a man named Dr. Maynard Murray published an outstanding book called Sea Energy Agriculture. Dr. Murray wanted to find out why sea life, both animal and vegetable, was healthier than life on land. In his book, he gives an example about how when one compares the cells of a baby whale to an adult whale, the cells don't show the evidence of the chemical changes that one sees when comparing the cells of newborn and adult land mammals. It was his belief that the reason for the absence of chronic diseases in fish and animal life is due to the fact that the ocean has the perfect balance of trace mineral elements required for the optimal health of both land and sea creatures. He even did experiments where he fed animals plants that had been fertilized with solids made with evaporated seawater and found that those animals were far healthier and lived longer than animals that were fed in the traditional way.It is a well-known fact that foods grown in the nutrient-depleted soils today have greatly diminished nutritional value, and it is imperative to find a way to restore the minerals to the soil that are lost through erosion and other means. With a worldwide water shortage looming ahead, it is also important to figure out how to harness the amazing power of seawater to irrigate crops. This is why research that finds ways to both conserve water and create more nutritious foods must not be ignored if man is to continue to inhabit the earth.About the authorJoanne Waldron is a computer scientist with a passion for writing and sharing health-related news and information with others. She runs the Naked Wellness: The Gentle Health Revolution forum, which is devoted to achieving radiant health, well-being, and longevity. (Source: NaturalNews.com)

The fifth vital sign—what does it mean?

Pain Practice — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Acute pain is reported as a presenting symptom in over 80% of physician visits. Chronic pain affects an estimated 76.2 million Americans[mdash]more than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. It has been estimated to be undertreated in up to 80% of patients in some settings. Pain costs the American public more than $100 billion each year in health care, compensation, and litigation. That's why pain was officially declared "The Fifth Vital Sign." Henceforth the evaluation of pain became a requirement of proper patient care as important and basic as the assessment and management of temperature, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and heart rate. The numeric pain scale certainly has a place in care and in pain management; however, it is important to assess the patient's communication and self-management style and to recognize that patients, like pain, are on a continuum with varied styles of communication and adaptation. It is easy to get lost in the process, even when the process is initiated with the best of intentions. In the quest for individualized medicine, it might be best to keep pain assessment in the individualization arena. ▪ (Source: Pain Practice)

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Researchers find key mechanism of cell damage in aging and disease

News-Medical News Feed — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:45:00 +0100

Researchers have taken a first snapshot of how a class of highly reactive molecules inflicts cellular damage as part of aging, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer's disease to name a few. According to a study published today in the journal Cell, researchers have discovered a tool that can monitor related damage and determine the degree to which antioxidant drugs effectively combat disease. (Source: News-Medical News Feed)

Heavy drinking linked to death risk from stroke and heart disease

MedWire News - Consumer Health — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of death from stokes in men, and death from coronary heart disease in women, study results show. (Source: MedWire News - Consumer Health)

Key mechanism of cellular damage in aging and disease

Huliq Health News — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:16:31 +0100

Raising awareness of women and heart disease-women's hearts are different.

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:24:08 +0100

Raising Awareness of Women and Heart Disease-Women's Hearts are Different.

Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2008 Sep;20(3):251-63

Authors: Herrmann C

Even though a woman has a one in two lifetime risk of dying from a coronary event, women and health care providers do not realize that heart disease is the greatest health risk for women. The purpose of this article is to increase awareness of women and heart disease. The article summarizes the evidence-based literature regarding the epidemiology of heart disease in women, risk factors and risk factor stratification, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. The text includes the American Heart Association's 2007 Evidenced Based Guidelines for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention.

PMID: 18644507 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America)

Kawasaki disease: a ride for little girls too!

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:24:02 +0100

Kawasaki disease: a ride for little girls too!

Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2008 Sep;20(3):265-71

Authors: Schnautz LS, Leggett P

Kawasaki disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children. Little is known about the origin; however, speculation exists that the disease is associated with the use of carpet cleaner or stagnate water. The disease can have devastating lifelong effects on the heart and cardiovascular system. Early recognition of the clinical manifestations by the health care provider may lead to early treatment and prevention of long-term cardiovascular disease. This article presents a case study, with discussion about the prevalence, incidence, pathophysiology, clinical features, and collaborative clinical management of Kawasaki disease.

PMID: 18644508 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America)

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Acute coronary syndromes and women: there are differences.

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:24:00 +0100

Acute Coronary Syndromes and Women: There are Differences.

Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2008 Sep;20(3):273-6

Authors: Welch E, Cottrell DB

Coronary heart disease is underdiagnosed, undertreated, and under-researched in women, and the body of evidence points towards three explanations: sex-based physiology, provider bias, and psychosocial influences. This article examines each of these possible reasons for the gender differences in the treatment of coronary heart disease. Fortunately, as research evolves more is being learned about gender-specific aspects of care.

PMID: 18644509 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America)

Managing hypertension in women.

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:23:46 +0100

Managing hypertension in women.

Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2008 Sep;20(3):305-10

Authors: Swartz MJ

Hypertension has been classified for several years as a "silent killer" because of the lack of associated symptoms. However, hypertension is linked to the development of target organ disease, which leads to cardiovascular and renal disease. Stroke and heart disease rank high in the leading causes of death in the United States and are major contributions to the financial and societal costs in health care. Hypertension is listed as the most common primary diagnosis in America. Therefore, controlling hypertension can be an important factor to reducing the incidence of these prevalent public health concerns. This article highlights the issues of hypertension in women.

PMID: 18644513 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America)

Heart failure: it's not just for men.

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:23:35 +0100

Heart Failure: It's Not Just for Men.

Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am. 2008 Sep;20(3):327-41

Authors: Pruitt AL

Heart failure is end-stage cardiac disease, developing in 46% of women within 6 years of having a myocardial infarction, and is the leading cause of all hospitalizations and readmissions in women over the age of 65 years. Since women present with atypical symptoms leading to inaccurate diagnosing of heart disease, education becomes a key component in increasing women's ability to self-manage heart failure symptoms and to become proactive in health-promoting behaviors. Health care providers are responsible for communicating discharge education including risk factors, causes, classification and staging, clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, and management of heart failure to assist women in managing this terminal disease and improving their quality of life.

PMID: 18644517 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America)

Heart disease 'raises the risk of dementia', new study claims

the Mail online | Health — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 07:08:29 +0100

Those who suffer from angina or heart attacks are more likely to develop dementia in old age, a study shows. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Now doctors want to drug grade schoolers with statins

NaturalNews.com — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) The obesity epidemic in America is now so out of control that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has decided it would be a good idea to start giving statin drugs to children as young as eight years old, according to their latest published policy outlined in a clinical report entitled "Lipid Screening and Cardiovascular Health in Childhood." The report is authored by Stephen R. Daniels, MD, PhD, Frank R. Greer, MD and the AAP Committee on Nutrition. Not surprisingly, an article by Lindsey Tanner of The Associated Press points out that Daniels has worked as a consultant to Abbott Laboratories and Merck (on matters unrelated to their cholesterol drugs). One can only imagine the new visions of dollar signs that the pharmaceutical companies must have dancing in their heads.Cholesterol Screening for Two-Year-Olds?A visit to the pediatrician may soon include screening children and adolescents with a fasting lipid profile. The AAP now recommends cholesterol screening for all children who are overweight or obese. Children who have parents or grandparents that developed heart disease at an early age or have other risk factors are also candidates for screening. The AAP is recommending that children be screened as early as age two. Imagine that. If Gramps had a heart attack at a young age, Junior may have to get a blood workup before he even starts preschool. According to the AAP Committee on Nutrition, if Junior is 8 years or older "with an LDL concentration of 190 mg/dL (or 160 mg/dL with a family history of early heart disease or 2 additional risk factors present or 130 mg/dL if diabetes mellitus is present), pharmacologic intervention should be considered."AAP Ignores rBGH IssueInterestingly enough, the AAP recommends that children drink low-fat milk but makes absolutely no mention whatsoever of avoiding red meat and milk that comes from cows injected with the bovine growth hormone (rBGH). The Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility recommends that people not consume products from cows that have been injected with any kind of bovine growth hormone, citing that it increases disease rates in cows and has been linked to possible increases in cancer and antibiotic resistance in humans. Moreover, Fairview Industries, a biochemistry research firm in Wisconsin, contends that use of rBGH produces milk which contains cow blood serum protein in it, and in certain children, this protein has been found to promote diabetes.The use of the bovine growth hormone has been banned in Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and in the 27 countries of the European Union. Why is it that the U.S. generally seems to lag behind other countries when it comes to such important safety issues? In fact, some informed consumers may wonder if it is even advisable to give children cow's milk at all, considering that there are many other dietary sources of calcium. For example, just 2 teaspoons of basil contains only 7.5 calories and has 63.4 mg of calcium, according to the nutritional profile at WHFoods.org.Doctors and Drug Chemists Question Safety of StatinsAccording to Tanner's article, Daniels believes that cholesterol drugs are "generally safe" for children. Now, there's a shocker, because there are many doctors who don't even think they are safe for adults. Shane Ellison, a former pharmaceutical chemist, doesn't have anything nice to say about statins, either, in a report called "Life Saving Cholesterol Facts" published at NewsWithViews.com.A Peek Inside of Grocery CartsWhile the AAP Committee on Nutrition does advise nutritional counseling and increased physical activity for certain groups of patients, they seem to ignore the undeniable fact that little children don't get high cholesterol because they have a statin drug deficiency. Usually one look inside of the family's grocery cart can give a pretty good indication of which children will have problems with cholesterol. Parents who think pepperoni pizza is the perfect food because it has something from each of the four food groups (there really are people who believe this) or that organic, cream-filled cookies are a health food will probably have children recommended for cholesterol screening. If the only thing resembling fruit in the shopping cart is the filling inside of a toaster tart, the kids eating this junk are going to be at risk.Lipid Profiles for Tots not the AnswerParents wishing to learn more about nutrition should definitely view the documentary called All Jacked Up. In a review of the movie, Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, states: "It's focused almost entirely on showing you what's wrong with the 'Standard American Diet' and the real cost of that diet in terms of disease, emotional distress and broken lives. It's up to you, the viewer, to decide what kind of diet you want to pursue after watching the movie, but make no mistake: You will automatically choose a healthier diet after watching this film! You can't help it. All Jacked Up speaks to your brain in a way that instantly changes your behavior." It's too bad many doctors seem more focused on medication than on prevention. If they were, they'd be recommending that expectant mothers view this film rather than cholesterol screening for two-year-olds.About the authorJoanne Waldron is a computer scientist with a passion for writing and sharing health-related news and information with others. She runs the Naked Wellness: The Gentle Health Revolution forum, which is devoted to achieving radiant health, well-being, and longevity. (Source: NaturalNews.com)

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Uk sugar study is sweetener for stem cell science

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Scientists at The University of Manchester are striving to discover how the body's natural sugars can be used to create stem cell treatments for heart disease and nerve damage - thanks to a 370,000 pound funding boost. All cells that make up the tissues of the body - such as skin, liver, brain and blood - are surrounded by a layer of sugars that coat the cells. (Source: Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today)

[original articles] short-term associations between fine and coarse particles and hospital admissions for cardiorespiratory diseases in six french cities

Occupational and Environmental Medicine — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Objectives: Little is known about the potential health effects of the coarse fraction of ambient particles. The aim of this study is to estimate the links between fine (PM2.5) and coarse particle (PM2.5–10) levels and cardiorespiratory hospitalisations in six French cities during 2000–2003. Methods: Data on the daily numbers of hospitalisations for respiratory, cardiovascular, cardiac and ischaemic heart diseases were collected. Associations between exposure indicators and hospitalisations were estimated in each city using a Poisson regression model, controlling for confounding factors (seasons, days of the week, holidays, influenza epidemics, pollen counts, temperature) and temporal trends. City-specific findings were combined to obtain excess relative risks (ERRs) associated with a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 and PM2.5–10 levels. Results: We found positive associations between indicators of particulate pollution and hospitalisations for respiratory infection, with an ERR of 4.4% (95% CI 0.9 to 8.0) for PM2.5–10 and 2.5% (95% CI 0.1 to 4.8) for PM2.5. Concerning respiratory diseases, no association was observed with PM2.5, whereas positive trends were found with PM2.5–10, with a significant association for the 0–14-year-old age group (ERR 6.2%, 95% CI 0.4 to 12.3). Concerning cardiovascular diseases, positive associations were observed between PM2.5 levels and each indicator, although some did not reach significance; trends with PM2.5–10 were weaker and non-significant except for ischaemic heart disease in the elderly (ERR 6.4%, 95% CI 1.6 to 11.4). Conclusions: In accordance with other studies, our results indicate that the coarse fraction may have a stronger effect than the fine fraction on some morbidity endpoints, especially respiratory diseases. (Source: Occupational and Environmental Medicine)

[postscript] the effect of shift work on ischaemic heart disease

Occupational and Environmental Medicine — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

(Source: Occupational and Environmental Medicine)

Researchers unravel key mechanism of cellular damage in aging and disease

EurekAlert! - Biology — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Rochester Medical Center) Researchers have taken a first snapshot of how a class of highly reactive molecules inflicts cellular damage as part of aging, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and Alzheimer's disease to name a few. According to a study published today in the journal Cell, researchers have discovered a tool that can monitor related damage and determine the degree to which antioxidant drugs effectively combat disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

Heart disease linked to worsening mental abilities

MedWire News - Consumer Health — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 22:52:10 +0100

Heart disease is associated with poor mental abilities in the areas of reasoning, vocabulary and verbal fluency, study results show. (Source: MedWire News - Consumer Health)

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Psychological factors do not affect inflammation

Reuters: Health — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:42:15 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - While psychological factors increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease, they do not affect inflammation, a factor also associated with the development of coronary heart disease, according to findings published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology. (Source: Reuters: Health)

American lung association issues new warning for people living near wildfires

Asbestos and Mesothelioma News — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:48:53 +0100

The American Lung Association has issued a new warning for people who live in locations where wildfires are affecting air quality. The dangerous air pollution which can result from wildfires can be lethal to people suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and asbestosis, and people with chronic heart disease are also at risk. The ALA recommends that people with these conditions take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy if they live near areas where wildfires exist, and that they call their doctor immediately if they experience unusual symptoms or a worsening of existing symptoms. Norman Edelman, MD, Chief Medical Officer of the American Lung Association, says, “Even those without lung diseases are at risk during this time. With the rising air pollution levels we are seeing in the affected areas, there is increased risk of coughing and wheezing, asthma attacks, as well as heart attacks and strokes, especially for older adults and outdoor workers. Take special care to protect children. They are more susceptible to smoke, because their respiratory systems are still developing.” The ALA recommends that people who live downwind of wildfire areas stay indoors whenever possible, and avoid breathing ash and smoke-filled air. People should avoid exercising outdoors, and should set their air conditioners to “recirculates,” to prevent the systems drawing in air from outside. Edelman says, “People with respiratory problems and chronic heart disease are at greatest risk during this time. Due to the extremely high levels of pollutants, many people may be experiencing increased symptoms and should contact their doctor promptly, especially those using oxygen. People using oxygen are strongly cautioned to not adjust their levels of intake without consulting their doctor first.” The ALA also advises that people with asthma talk with their doctors about whether they should change their medication to cope with smoke and ash-laden air conditions. The organization also says that people can find suitable dust masks at hardware and home supply stores, which can filter out fine particles such as ash and dust. People should look for masks labeled “P1000” or “N95.” However, the ALA warns that people with lung and heart conditions should consult their doctor before purchasing or using these masks, to ensure they can be worn safely. (Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News)

Is this baby at risk for heart disease?

Medscape Med Students Headlines — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:39:06 +0100

Test your knowledge with these USMLE sample questions. USMLEasy from McGraw-Hill (Source: Medscape Med Students Headlines)

New patient navigators improve access to cardiac care

Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:01:00 +0100

Albertans with heart disease will receive care more quickly with the assistance of patient navigators - health professional staff who ensure patients are referred to the first available and most appropriate health service provider. (Source: Alberta.ca from- Health and Wellness)

Heart disease linked to poor cognitive function in middle age

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:01:59 +0100

The results of a new study should give an added incentive to work harder on prevention strategies for CHD, as this could also reduce the likelihood of cognitive decline, the authors suggest. Heartwire (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

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Heart disease is linked to worse mental processes

Huliq Health News — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:27:35 +0100

Coronary heart disease is associated with a worse performance in mental processes such as reasoning, vocabulary and verbal fluency, according to a study of 5837 middle-aged Whitehall civil servants. The study also found that the longer ago the heart disease had been diagnosed, the worse was the person's cognitive performance and this effect was particularly marked in men. (Source: Huliq Health News)

Oryginal article percutaneous closure of post-traumatic and congenital muscular ventricular septal defects with the amplatzer muscular vsd occluder

Articles of Polish Heart Journal - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:38:07 +0100

Background: Muscular ventricular septal defects (VSD) are an important and difficult surgical problem. In the last few years a new alternative has emerged – possibility of VSD closure using percutaneous approach. Aim: To present our experience in percutaneous closure of congenital muscular and one posttraumatic VSD. Methods: We treated 10 patients – 7 children (age 0.8-7 years) and 2 adults (43 and 46 years) with congenital VSD, and one 18-year-old patient with posttraumatic VSD (knife stab). All the patients had a large haemodynamic shunt (Qp:Qs 1.9) and in all cases percutaneous closure attempt with an Amplatzer Muscular VSD Occluder (MVSDO) implant was undertaken. Five of 6 children with multiple muscular VSDs had in infancy previous pulmonary artery banding and one patient had complex heart disease: transposition of great arteries (dTGA), pulmonary stenosis (PS) and perimembranous VSD. All procedures were performed using the standard technique. Results: Eleven procedures were performed in 10 patients (one child had 2 attempts). Seven procedures were successful. In all cases a considerable reduction in flow or complete closure was achived. In one case, despite multiple attempts, VSD caniulation was ineffective and the procedure was abandoned. The patient had oblique VSD – morphology confirmed was later by the operating surgeon. The reason for the other 3 failures was early embolisation to the left ventricle and aorta. This complication was noted in 2 adult patients – one with congenital and one with post-traumatic VSD. In both cases the interventricular septum was thick (10 and 11 mm) and implants were removed with a bioptome or vascular lasso. Another embolisation occurred in a child with TGA – in this case the cardiac surgeon removed the implant from the aortic arch during Rastelli operation. Conclusion: Our experience acquired during muscular VSD closure with MVSDO indicates that the method is useful in children with isolated defects. Adult patients and children with a complex form of congenital defects should have morphology of MVSDO carefully evaluated and width of the interventricular septum measured to avoid potential implant embolisation. (Source: Articles of Polish Heart Journal - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Association of coronary atherosclerosis detected by multislice computed tomography and traditional risk-factor assessment.

The American Journal of Cardiology — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:54:30 +0100

Association of coronary atherosclerosis detected by multislice computed tomography and traditional risk-factor assessment.

Am J Cardiol. 2008 Aug 1;102(3):316-20

Authors: Nair D, Carrigan TP, Curtin RJ, Popovic ZB, Kuzmiak S, Schoenhagen P, Flamm SD, Desai MY

Framingham risk score is an office-based tool used for long-term coronary heart disease risk stratification. Most acute coronary events occur in association with proximal nonobstructive atherosclerotic plaque. Multislice computed tomography detects both obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) and proximal atherosclerotic plaque with high accuracy. The association of Framingham risk score with obstructive CAD and proximal atherosclerotic plaque was tested. Coronary multislice computed tomography was performed in 295 patients (61% men, mean age 54 +/- 13 years) without documented CAD referred for evaluation of cardiac symptoms. Framingham risk score was computed and patients were stratified according to 10-year risk (n = 213 [72%] low, n = 74 [25%] intermediate, and n = 8 [3%] high). Obstructive CAD was defined as >/=50% stenosis in >/=1 epicardial coronary artery. Proximal atherosclerotic plaque was defined as calcified or noncalcified plaque in the left main or proximal left anterior descending artery. In the low- and intermediate-Framingham risk score groups, there was a high frequency of proximal atherosclerotic plaque (44% and 75%) and obstructive CAD (16% and 34%), although both findings were more prevalent in the high-Framingham risk score group (63% for atherosclerotic plaque, 88% for obstructive CAD), respectively. Proximal atherosclerotic plaque was noncalcified in approximately 13 of patients. In women (n = 114) and younger (<55 years) patients (n = 148), most (93% and 91%, respectively) had a low Framingham risk score. There were 48 women and 51 younger patients with proximal atherosclerotic plaque, of whom only 40% (in each group) were on statin therapy. In conclusion, of patients with a low and intermediate Framingham risk score, a significant proportion had proximal atherosclerotic plaque or obstructive CAD.

PMID: 18638593 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: The American Journal of Cardiology)

Comparison effect of atorvastatin (10 versus 80 mg) on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in subjects with metabolic syndrome.

The American Journal of Cardiology — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:54:25 +0100

Comparison Effect of Atorvastatin (10 versus 80 mg) on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Subjects With Metabolic Syndrome.

Am J Cardiol. 2008 Aug 1;102(3):321-5

Authors: Singh U, Devaraj S, Jialal I, Siegel D

Metabolic syndrome (MS), characterized by low-grade inflammation, confers an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Statins, in addition to having lipid-lowering effects, have pleiotropic effects and decrease biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. The Treating to New Target Study showed a greater decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and cardiovascular events with atorvastatin 80 mg versus 10 mg in patients with MS with coronary heart disease. However, part of this benefit could be caused by the greater pleiotropic effects of the higher dose of atorvastatin. The dose-response effect of atorvastatin on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress has not been investigated in subjects with MS. Thus, the dose-response effect of atorvastatin on biomarkers of inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], matrix metalloproteinase-9, and nuclear factor-kappaB [NF-kB] activity) and oxidative stress (oxidized LDL, urinary nitrotyrosine, F2-isoprostanes, and monocyte superoxide release) was tested in a randomized double-blind clinical trial in subjects with MS. Seventy subjects were randomly assigned to receive placebo or atorvastatin 10 or 80 mg/day for 12 weeks. A strong dose-response (atorvastatin 10 compared with 80 mg, p <0.05) was observed for changes in total, LDL (32% and 44% reduction), non-high-density lipoprotein (28% and 40% reduction), and oxidized LDL cholesterol (24% and 39% reduction) at atorvastatin 10 and 80 mg, respectively. Hs-CRP, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and NF-kB significantly decreased in the 80-mg atorvastatin group compared with baseline. In conclusion, this randomized trial of subjects with MS showed the superiority of atorvastatin 80 mg compared with its 10-mg dose in decreasing oxidized LDL, hs-CRP, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and NF-kB activity.

PMID: 18638594 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: The American Journal of Cardiology)

Heart disease is linked to worse mental processes that, in turn, predict the onset of dementia

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0100

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Heart disease 'raises the risk of dementia', new study claims

the Mail online | Diet — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:36:20 +0100

Those who suffer from angina or heart attacks are more likely to develop dementia in old age, a study shows. (Source: the Mail online | Diet)

Heart disease bad for brain

MedicineNet Alzheimer — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Heart Disease Bad for BrainCategory: Health NewsCreated: 7/23/2008Last Editorial Review: 7/23/2008 (Source: MedicineNet Alzheimer)

Heart disease bad for brain

MedicineNet Senior Health General — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Heart Disease Bad for BrainCategory: Health NewsCreated: 7/23/2008Last Editorial Review: 7/23/2008 (Source: MedicineNet Senior Health General)

Heart disease 'raises the risk of dementia', new study claims

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:48:09 +0100

Those who suffer from angina or heart attacks are more likely to develop dementia in old age, a study shows. The risk is greatest for men who have been living with heart problems for at least ten years. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Lymphocytes of type 2 diabetic women carry a high load of stable chromosomal aberrations: a novel risk factor for disease-related early death.

Diabetes — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Lymphocytes of type 2 diabetic women carry a high load of stable chromosomal aberrations: A novel risk factor for disease-related early death.

Diabetes. 2008 Jul 23;

Authors: Boehm BO, Möller P, Högel J, Winkelmann BR, Renner W, Rosinger S, Seelhorst U, Wellnitz B, März W, Melzner J, Brüderlein S

Objective: Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of death in women. Oxidative stress due to chronic hyperglycemia leads to the generation of reactive oxygen species and loss of chromosomal integrity. To clarify whether diabetes is a premature aging syndrome, we determined telomere erosion dynamics and occurrence of structural chromosomal aberrations in women of the LURIC study. Research Design and Methods: Telomere lengths and karyotypes were examined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Regarding these parameters, surviving and deceased type 2 diabetes women of the LURIC study were compared to non-diabetic LURIC females with or without coronary heart disease, and to healthy female controls. Results: Significantly enhanced telomere attrition was seen in all LURIC subjects compared to healthy controls. Although the average telomere length loss is equivalent to well above 10 years of healthy aging, telomere erosion was not associated with outcome within the LURIC cohort. However, strikingly high numbers of stable chromosomal aberrations were found in type 2 diabetes women but not in LURIC disease controls or in healthy individuals. Furthermore, within the younger age groups, deceased type 2 diabetes patients had significantly more marker chromosomes than the surviving type 2 diabetes patients. Conclusions: All women at high risk for cardiovascular death have accelerated telomere erosion, obviously not caused by type 2 diabetes per se but likely linked to other risk factors, including dyslipidemia. By contrast, the occurrence of marker chromosomes is associated with type 2 diabetes and is a novel risk factor for type 2 diabetes-related early death.

PMID: 18650367 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

(Source: Diabetes)

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Coronary heart disease linked to problems with reasoning, vocabulary and verbal fluency

News-Medical News Feed — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:02:00 +0100

Heart disease linked to impaired cognition and later dementia

MedPage Today Cardiovascular — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 23:00:00 +0100

LONDON -- Coronary heart disease in midlife is associated with poorer results on cognitive tests, such as reasoning, vocabulary, and verbal fluency, with the effect particularly marked in men, a study found. (Source: MedPage Today Cardiovascular)

Regular activity protects the masai against heart disease

MedWire News - Consumer Health — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:49:36 +0100

The nomadic Masai people in Africa have very low levels of cardiovascular disease, despite a diet high in animal fats, because of their high levels of physical activity, rather than their genetic make-up, say researchers. (Source: MedWire News - Consumer Health)

Heart-disease deaths hit lowest levels yet in us

Medscape Cardiology Headlines — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:16:15 +0100

Mortality from heart disease in the US was at its lowest ever in 2006, down 5.5% from the previous year, according to preliminary figures from the CDC. Nevertheless, it still remains the leading cause of death, say the statisticians, and the AHA president warns against complacency. Heartwire (Source: Medscape Cardiology Headlines)

Effectiveness of teaching cardiac auscultation to residents during an elective pediatric cardiology rotation

Pediatric Cardiology — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:34:25 +0100

Abstract This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of randomized tracks of prerecorded cardiac sounds as a teaching tool for cardiac auscultation. The study focused on recognizing murmurs when present, distinguishing functional from organic murmurs, and detecting heart disease by auscultation. At both pre- and posttesting, 26 residents listened to 15 randomized tracks of live-recorded cardiac sounds and identified key features. The results indicate that the residents improved at detecting any murmur (66% vs 76%, p = 0.007) and functional murmur (37% vs 54%, p = 0.048), and marginally improved at detecting organic murmur (75% vs 84%, p = 0.129). Detection of absence of murmur declined slightly (69% vs 62%, p = 0.723). The posttest difference in identifying organic versus functional murmurs was striking (84% vs 54%, p < 0.001). Detection of heart disease (sensitivity) improved significantly (76% to 86%, p = 0.016), but there was scant improvement in detecting no disease (specificity) (55% vs 59%, p = 0.601). The residents increased in their ability to detect heart disease when present. However, the false-positive rate for a diagnosis of heart disease remained quite high. To ensure that appropriate referrals will be made, teaching should specifically target the confident recognition of functional murmurs. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00246-008-9265-5Authors Leone F. Mattioli, University of Kansas Medical Center Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, MS 4004 Kansas City KS 66160 USAJohn M. Belmont, University of Kansas Medical Center Division of Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, MS 4004 Kansas City KS 66160 USAAnn McGrath Davis, University of Kansas Medical Center Division of Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, MS 4004 Kansas City KS 66160 USA Journal Pediatric CardiologyOnline ISSN 1432-1971Print ISSN 0172-0643 (Source: Pediatric Cardiology)

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Can negative cardiac effect of proton pump inhibitor and high-dose h2-blocker have clinical influence on patients with stable angina?

Journal of Cardiology — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:34:44 +0100

Can negative cardiac effect of proton pump inhibitor and high-dose H2-blocker have clinical influence on patients with stable angina?

J Cardiol. 2008 Aug;52(1):39-48

Authors: Tanaka S, Nishigaki K, Ojio S, Okubo M, Yasuda S, Ishihara Y, Kubota T, Takasugi N, Kawamura I, Yamaki T, Ushikoshi H, Aoyama T, Kawasaki M, Takemura G, Minatoguchi S

BACKGROUND: Aspirin and anti-platelet drugs are used commonly for patients with coronary heart disease. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and high-dose H2-blocker were recommended for preventing NSAIDs-related ulcer. Previously H2-blocker reported to have some negative cardiovascular effects. Additionally, a recent in vitro study showed that PPI reduced cardiac contractility. In this study, we evaluated whether chronic administration of PPI and high-dose H2-blocker affects left ventricular function. METHOD: Fifty-two stable angina patients were enrolled and classified into PPI group ([P]; lansoprazole: 15mg/day, n=28), H2-blocker group ([H]; famotidine: 40mg/day, n=8), and control ([C]; none or mucosal-defense drug, n=16). Eligible patients showed normal cardiac function in initial catheterization without administrated PPI or H2-blocker. They received percutaneous coronary intervention and follow-up catheterization. We compared changes in ejection fraction (EF: %), end diastolic/systolic volume index (EDVI/ESVI: ml/m(2)), and peak positive/negative dp/dt (+/-dp/dt: mmHg/s) in left ventricular angiography series. RESULT: There were no significant differences among three groups regarding patient characteristics, backgrounds of angiographic and intervention, except for fewer smokers in [C]. Other drugs such as beta- and Ca-blocker did not have effects on cardiac function except for aspirin during 255+/-115 days follow-up. Rate of EF changes significantly decreased in [P], and tended to decrease in [H] (C: 3.8+/-9.8%, H: -1.6+/-7.6%, P: -2.1+/-5.9%; p<0.05 for [C] vs. [P]). Those of ESVI changes were significantly greater in [P], and tended to be greater in [H] (C: -4.5+/-16.2%, H: 4.9+/-15.5%, P: 7.3+/-16.2%; p<0.05 for [C] vs. [P]), though, EDVI changes' were similar (C: 2.5+/-8.9%, H: 2.6+/-3.6%, P: 1.6+/-6.1%; p=ns). Rate of +/-dp/dt-changes tended to decrease in [H] (+dp/dt: C: 3.9+/-15.5%, H: -10.0+/-25.2%, P: 0.3+/-19.6%; p=ns, -dp/dt: C: -0.1+/-19.5%, H: -8.5+/-20.4%, P: 5.7+/-27.7%; p=ns). CONCLUSION: In this study, PPI and high-dose H2-blocker have EF-reducing tendency. However, these changes were small and these drugs seemed to exhibit little influence clinically.

PMID: 18639776 [PubMed - in process]

(Source: Journal of Cardiology)

Tanzania: focus on heart disease

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:25:46 +0100

Recent reports that cardiovascular disease is likely to succeed HIV/Aids as a major killer in Africa should be a wake up call to authorities. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Vap cholesterol test helps reveal association between adiponectin levels and atherosclerosis

Cholesterol News From Medical News Today — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 09:00:00 +0100

Using the VAP Cholesterol Test from Atherotech, researchers have identified a link between adiponectin and heart disease progression. The information could help physicians trying to pinpoint the most effective cholesterol and heart disease risk-lowering treatments in at-risk patients. (Source: Cholesterol News From Medical News Today)

Review: zyflamend supplement for inflammation; tips on anti-inflammatory foods and herbs

NaturalNews.com — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Sales of anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals are a multi-billion dollar industry. Yet as we've learned with the Vioxx fiasco and all the tens of thousands of deaths surrounding that drug, anti-inflammatory medications can be extremely dangerous. Sure, it stops the pain, but sometimes it also stops your heart.Not surprisingly, consumers are looking for healthier, safer and more natural alternatives to dangerous anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals. And here's the good news: There are many truly remarkable anti-inflammatory foods, herbs and supplements available right now, and in my view they work far better than anti-inflammatory drugs! At the same time, they have absolutely no negative side effects. In fact, many of these natural remedies enhance immune function and actually boost cardiovascular health at the same time they ease inflammation.In the food category, omega-3 oils are well noted for anti-inflammatory action. People suffering from inflammatory diseases (arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer's and even cancer) commonly experience tremendous benefits just by reducing their intake of fried foods and omega-6 oils while greatly increasing their intake of omega-3 oils. (See the complete checklist for my "anti-inflammatory diet" below...)Cherries, too, are tremendous anti-inflammatory foods. So is the fresh juice from cucumbers and celery. That's why I drink fresh vegetable juices on a regular basis, and both cucumber and celery are part of my daily recipe.On the supplement side, I've previously written about some truly remarkable anti-inflammatory substances like astaxanthin, ginger and turmeric, but until now, I've never reviewed an anti-inflammatory product that combined the most powerful natural remedies for inflammation into one extraordinary solution that you can conveniently take in a softgel format.It's time to do that review. Below, I'm reviewing Zyflamend by New Chapter.Inflammation is the basis for many diseasesFirst, though, let me cover an important concept in human health: Many so-called "diseases" have their roots in inflammation. All the following conditions, in fact, begin with inflammation and then progress to more serious degenerative conditions that ultimately get diagnosed as disease:• Cancers, including prostate cancer and breast cancer • Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Crohn's disease • Dementia and Alzheimer's disease • Type-II diabetes • Type-I diabetes and autoimmune disorders (like Lupus) • Heart disease, atherosclerosis and clogged arteries • Asthma • Arthritis and joint pain • Allergies and hay fever • Infertility and endometriosis • Skin disorders like eczemaEven conventional medicine is now recognizing how pivotal inflammation can in determining the course of human health. The now-popular test for C-Reactive Proteins (CRP) is essentially a test of inflammation factors in the blood. So are PSA tests used in the detection of prostate cancer. The more conventional medicine learns about inflammation, the more it realizes that inflammation is the precursor to dozens of other serious diseases.By halting the inflammation and eliminating its root cause, you can halt the progression of degenerative disease and begin healing from the inside out.In this article, I highlight two supplements that can help you stop the inflammation cycle in your body, and I reveal core strategies for eliminating the things that are causing inflammation while embracing things that reverse it. Details on my "anti-inflammatory diet" are included towards the end of this article.But first, let's take a look at the single most popular herbal supplement designed to ease inflammation: Zyflamend.Zyflamend from New ChapterI've always thought "Zyflamend" was kind of a goofy name for a natural supplement. With the prominent Z, it sounds too much like a drug name, but at least the "mend" part implies a healing ("mending") process, so that's a nice play on words.Regardless of the name, this herb is truly impressive. This supplement is a food- and herb-based supplement that combines ten of the very top anti-inflammatory concentrates in the world of natural medicine, bringing them together in a synergistic formula that's ridiculously effective at halting inflammation.You may already be familiar with Zyflamend because it's one of the top herbal supplements sold in the world. But in case you aren't, let me tell you what I really love about this product and how it could help you end chronic pain, boost your health and get you back to a more active lifestyle that has enormous other benefits. (All the health claims and descriptions mentioned here, by the way, are my own opinion. I do not sell this product, nor do I own any stake in the New Chapter company. I do, however, openly endorse this supplement, and I use it myself as described below.)Based on whole-herb medicine, not isolated chemicalsOne of the first things you'll notice about Zyflamend is that it's based on whole-herb medicine. In other words, this isn't some recipe that combines isolated vitamins, minerals and other laboratory-created nutrients. It's based on medicine from nature, and it uses whole herbs that are very well documented to modulate COX-2 action, which is how the anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals work, except that the herbs act in a more holistic, balanced way that enhances your health instead of endangering it.This whole-herb approach is extremely important to many consumers (and to myself, too) because we recognize that Mother Nature never works in isolation. Herbs and foods always deliver hundreds of different phytonutrients that work synergistically -- often in ways modern researchers can't even begin to understand.That's why whole whole-herb medicine systems work so well, including Western herbalism, Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. They rely on the healing wisdom of nature rather than the arrogance of doctors who think a single, isolated chemical heal the human body. Except in rare circumstances, no single chemical heals anything. True recovery from disease (or symptoms of disease) requires a holistic approach, not a one-chemical band-aid that merely masks symptoms. (The Zyflamend formula, by the way, uses herbs from all three systems of herbal medicine: Chinese, Ayurvedic and Western herbology...)This whole-herb approach also provides tremendous safety for those taking the herbs. Why? Toxicity is caused by single chemicals being ingested in unnaturally-high concentrations. Extract cocaine from the coca leaf, for example, and you have a toxic drug. But when plant-based chemicals (nutrients) are ingested in their natural ratios -- as found in nature -- virtually all of the toxicity goes away, creating safe, natural and very low-cost solutions that are fully biocompatible with your body. So coca leaf tea becomes an energizing holistic tonic, and that's why I drink coca tea when hiking the mountains in South America. (Coca leaves are banned in America, by the way, under the ridiculous "War on Drugs" policies that have accomplished nothing other than spending billions of taxpayer dollars.)Zyflamend ingredientsNew Chapter really knows what it's doing with herbal formulation. To those who know their herbs, the Zyflamend ingredients list is a spectacular combination of herbs that work together to halt inflammation while supporting healthy systemic body function. Below, I list each ingredient along with my own personal opinion about each one, and a link where you can learn more:Rosemary - Powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial culinary herb. http://www.naturalnews.com/np/rosemary.htmlTurmeric - Super anti-cancer herb, also known for enhancing joint health, ending arthritis pain and increasing muscle and tendon flexibility. http://www.naturalnews.com/np/turmeric.htmlGinger - One of the world's best-known tonic herbs. Boosts immune function and circulation, helping to remove metabolic toxins from the body's cells. Well known antibacterial and anti-viral properties. http://www.naturalnews.com/np/ginger.htmlHoly Basil - Also known as tulsi, holy basil is used in Ayurvedic medicine to combat arthritis, asthma, heart disease and many other conditions. It's also a well-documented anti-stress herb that been studied extensively for its stress-reduction properties.Green Tea - A phenomenal healing herb, green tea exhibits strong anti-cancer benefits as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Here's a great BBC article on green tea and cancer: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3125469.stm http://www.naturalnews.com/np/green_tea.htmlHu Zhang - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herb that invigorates the blood and eases inflammation of the lungs. The name for this herb is quite fascinating: The "Hu" means tiger, and "Zhang" means cane (like a walking cane). The "Hu" is used to denote strength, and the "Zhang" means "supportive." Hu Zhang dissolves phlegm and stops coughing, among its many other actions.Chinese Goldthread - This is another Chinese herb that contains several bitter alkaloids. One of them is berberine, which is a phenomenal anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal nutrient. It has even been studied as a defense against MRSA superbug infections. Under ultraviolet light, berberine exhibits a natural fluorescence, meaning it exhibits a natural resonance with certain wavelengths of light.Barberry - An herb used by ancient Egyptians (and still in use there today) for treating inflammatory fevers. It also aids in digestion and liver function. It's more of a support herb in this formula than the celebrity.Oregano - Oregano is a very potent anti-parasite herb, but it's also used as a natural decongestant and anti-allergy herb. Highly-concentrated wildcrafted forms (like you find from North American Herb and Spice) will blow your mind. There are 40mg of oregano supercritical extract in each serving of Zyflamend (2 softgels). http://www.naturalnews.com/np/oregano.htmlBaikal Skullcap - Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat intestinal inflammation, this world-renowned herb also relieves anxiety and insomnia. It also helps lower blood pressure and reduce tension throughout the body. http://www.naturalnews.com/np/skullcap.htmlInterested in getting Zyflamend for yourself? See below for clickable links where you can get it at 40% off retail prices...New Chapter, of course, can't describe their Zyflamend product using the specific, truthful health information I've provided above. That's because the FDA continues its parade of censorship against supplement manufacturers, prohibiting them from telling the truth about what their products actually do (while allowing Big Pharma to blatantly lie about its own drugs). But because I'm an independent journalist, I'm able to accurately describe the real benefits of these botanicals using plain language.Someday, when the FDA has been shut down or radically reformed, Free Speech will once again be restored to the supplement industry, but until that day arrives, you will notice that supplement companies have been terrorized by the FDA into limiting their product descriptions to sheepish, timid descriptions that don't dare tell the whole truth about what these natural medicines can really do!Why supercritical extraction makes all the differenceIn past articles here on NaturalNews, I've talked about the dangers of the chemical solvents used in certain extraction technologies. Some companies use an explosive chemical solvent called hexane to extract phytonutrients from herbs. I think that's a very unhealthy and unwise way to make herbal medicine. Who wants to swallow residues of explosive petrochemicals in their herbs?Today's most advanced companies are using a process called supercritical extraction. This involves saturating the herbal mixture with a harmless gas -- carbon dioxide -- and concentrating the active nutrients that way. Once the extraction process is complete, the CO2 just evaporates off the mixture, returning to the air. And no, this does not contribute to global warming, because the CO2 used in this process is pulled out of the air in the first place. So there's no net increase in CO2 production, and in fact, since this whole process avoids the use of highly toxic hexane (which kills fish), so it's far safer for the environment as a whole.Organix South, Inc., makes of a really great Neem product using this same technology, by the way. I'll be writing a review and recommendation of their Neem products a little later on.New Chapter exclusively uses supercritical extraction for their herbs, completely avoiding the use of hexane and achieving the claim "hexane-free." This is a huge plus for New Chapter, and it's one of the reasons I so strongly recommend their products. (I wrote about their Berry Green products before, and will be covering quite a few other New Chapter products in upcoming reviews.)When it comes to extraction technologies for concentrating the natural medicines found in herbs, supercritical extraction is the very best process known today. It's the one I recommend to every company that wants me to review their products. You should always look for the term "supercritical extraction" when you're buying herbal concentrates or supplements.New Chapter's integrity and leadershipOne of the things I do before recommending any company involves checking out their founder(s). Are the people at the top honest and authentic? Do they really care about people and the planet? Are they healthy?In previous articles, I've brought you news about a lot of people who walk their talk: People who have the kind of integrity I think should be a requirement for any health company. I'm talking about people like "Amazon" John Easterling of the Amazon Herb Co., David Wolfe of Sunfood.com, Peter Ragnar of Roaring Lion Publishing, Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy of Genesis Organics, John Roulac of Nutiva and many others. I definitely put Paul Schulick in that category of high-integrity individuals who have a healing vision for the world. You can read about him and the history of New Chapter (which was founded in 1982) here: http://www.newchapter.com/page/a-look-backI recently completed a phone interview with Paul, and we chatted for a good hour about global transformation, medicinal herbs, compassion for living things and other interesting topics. He's the kind of person you can just sit and chat with endlessly about such things. During our conversation, it very quickly became obvious to me that Paul was the real deal: A human being who believes passionately in contributing to a better world. You might even call him a revolutionary who sees his role for global transformation as one that can be best expressed through natural medicines brought to the masses.He's certainly accomplished that. Zyflamend has become the single best-selling herbal supplement in the United States. Its popularity is a true testament to the power of high-integrity product formulation combined with the remarkable healing power of Mother Nature's medicines.Why Mother Nature heals bestI want to make that last point really clear: Zyflamend doesn't heal you, nor does Paul Schulick heal you. When you ingest the natural herbal concentrations found in Zyflamend, you are healing yourself, aided by the miracles of Mother Nature.And they are miracles, in my view. Creating a baby in the womb is a miracle. Skin that heals itself is a miracle. Sleep, dreaming and memory are all miracles. Not a single Western scientist understands any of these things, really. They can document them, name them and claim to explain them, but they don't really understand them. How does a new life begin inside the body of another living being? Nobody really knows. It's one of the great mysteries (and miracles) of life.Your own body's innate healing ability is equally miraculous. Just like the genetic code of a sperm and egg combine to initiate the creation of a new, living being, your own body has the genetic blueprint to heal itself and create perfect health. That means it already has the instructions to end arthritis, inflammation, heart disease, cancer and chronic pain. You are, quite literally, a self-healing, self-repairing biological miracle!So why are so many people in pain these days? Because they've suppressed their innate healing potential. It's as simple as that. Eating fried foods, processed foods, nutritionally-depleted foods and junk foods drains your body's innate healing ability. Taking pharmaceuticals accelerates the destruction of your liver, kidneys and brain, and soaking your skin in toxic personal care products (conventional soaps, shampoos, deodorants, perfumes, etc.) further speeds the destruction of your biology.In fact, what most doctors consider to be "aging" today is really just the toxic degeneration of the masses through dietary and environmental poisons. So-called diseases of aging are called "normal" today simply because the masses all poison themselves with the same consumer products!But what would happen if you didn't poison yourself? How might your body be reactivated to heal itself if you actually fed it the super-potent, Mother-Nature-derived medicines and nutrients it was designed to consume? That's what Zyflamend does: It gives your body the high-vibration nutrients and biologically-compatible combinations of plant-based medicines that activate your inner healer, literally catalyzing the molecular actions that unleash your innate ability to heal your joints, your heart, your brain and your entire body.It's really that simple. Consume Zyflamend on a regular basis, and you will be activating your body's own innate healing technology. The results, from one perspective, are the easing of inflammation throughout the body (joints, heart, lungs, sinuses, etc.). But that's just one benefit of these herbal medicines. Sure, that's the primary marketing position of Zyflamend, and it's very, very effective in that regard, but the true benefits of this product transcend that single application.For example, the turmeric, ginger and green tea ingredients are powerful anti-cancer remedies all by themselves. Turmeric contains ingredients that halt the growth of cancer tumors by cutting off their blood supply. Ginger boosts circulation to extremities and greatly enhances immune function. Green tea offers powerful prevention for breast cancer and prostate cancer! You can read more about cancer and green tea here: http://www.naturalnews.com/np/C/Cancer-green_tea.htmlVirtually every author, researcher and nutritionist who's educated in natural medicine agrees that turmeric and ginger are two of the most powerful healing herbs in the world. Check out this remarkable book: The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth by Johnny Bowden: http://www.naturalnews.com/np/The_150_Healthiest_Foods_on_Earth.htmlHow to Get Zyflamend at 40% offVitacost.com has the best price around for a high-end, fast-shipping online retailer. Below, we list three options for getting Zyflamend for yourself. Option #1 is a new experiment for us. It gives our readers the option of allowing NaturalNews to earn a small portion of their product purchase. Option #2, which is the exact same price, earns us nothing. You get to decide whether NaturalNews deserves any reward for providing this review to you for free. That's why we call it our "FreeChoice Product Options" section. Please let us know if you like this idea. It answers the question so many readers have asked us: How can we help support NaturalNews? The answer is to choose option #1. But it's entirely your choice. It's voluntary and entirely reader-supported.FreeChoice Product Options: What's this?Option #1: Buy from Vitacost.com for $35.37 (40% off) - CLICK HERE A portion of each sale supports NaturalNews. (Thank you!)Option #2: Buy from Vitacost.com for $35.37 (40% off) - CLICK HERE NaturalNews receives nothing from your purchase.Option #3: Buy from your local health food store Prices typically vary from $40 - $59(Note: If you purchase from Vitacost, I recommend you skip the "$20 cash back" offer you'll see after your purchase. If you join it, you'll get signed up to a service called Shopping Essentials+ that charges you $19.95 a month. Just skip that offer.)Can't take softgels? There's also a liquid available: Click here to get Zyflamend Liquid at 40% off (Note: This liquid is simply incredible. No sweeteners, no junk. It's extremely potent. But it definitely tastes like potent medicine, too. Not for people who expect their medicine to taste like sweetened cough syrup. This link does benefit NaturalNews.)So why do you have inflammation, anyway?If you're serious about ending inflammation in your body, it's not enough to simply take a pill -- even a high-end herbal supplement -- while neglecting to take a look at everything else that's going on in your life. After all, inflammation isn't random. If you have inflammation, there's absolutely no question you're doing something to cause it. Let's see if we can figure out a way to reverse that cause, shall we?What causes inflammation? For the most part, it all comes down to diet. All the following foods cause inflammation:• Fried foods • Cheese, milk and dairy products • Sodas and diet soft drinks • Meats and animal products (especially processed meats like bacon, sausage, etc.) • Fried foods • Charred foods (BBQ, etc.) • Sugar • Partially-hydrogenated oils • Artificial food colors • MSG, yeast extract and other excitotoxins • Processed salt (sodium) • Foods cooked at high temperatures (pizza, bread, snack chips, etc.)... in other words, most of what mainstream consumers eat causes inflammation. It's no wonder, then, that so many people suffer from diseases of inflammation! Every time they sit down to eat another meal of processed meats, processed sugars and hydrogenated oils, they're causing a direct continuation of inflammation. If they do that for long enough, they will eventually be diagnosed with one or more "diseases" of inflammation: Heart disease, atherosclerosis, cancer, Alzheimer's, asthma, allergies, Crohn's disease, etc.Getting rid of inflammation requires thinking holistically, not symptomatically. In other words, the inflammation is NOT your problem. The inflammation is simply a SIGN of your problem: Your diet!Change your diet and you change the results you get in your body. Of course, changing your diet requires you to be up front and honest with yourself about what your diet really consists of right now.The blunt truth is that most consumers vastly overestimate the healthfulness of their own diets, and they conveniently forget all the unhealthy foods they consume on a regular basis. If you ask them what they eat, they'll tell you they eat a lot of salads, whole grains and other "healthy" foods. What they conveniently leave out (unconsciously, sometimes) is their consumption of diet sodas (which some people actually think are healthy), fried snack chips, candy bars and sugary desserts. I encourage you to take a good, honest look at what you're really eating, and then assess how you can change things for the better.There's only one reliable way to do that, by the way: Keep a food diary for one week. Yep, just write down every single thing you eat or drink for a week. Really. If you're like most people, the list will absolutely shock you.Your conscious mind, you see, truly has no idea what your unconscious mind has been feeding you! A food diary is the only way to bring food awareness into your conscious mind. Virtually all eating habits are unconsciously decided. Bad habits are conveniently forgotten, distorting your perception of your own healthfulness (or lack thereof). I've met countless obese, diabetic people who swear to me they eat nothing but healthy, fresh, plant-based diets! (Their bodies tell me a different story...)Once you keep track of what you're eating and become consciously aware of that list, you can then start to eliminate all the inflammation-causing foods from your diet. If you want to accelerate your results, Zyflamend can work wonders. But ultimately, if you really want to be free of the diseases of inflammation, you need to achieve the anti-inflammatory diet, described below.The anti-inflammatory dietThe anti-inflammatory diet has a lot in common with the Mediterranean Diet. You've probably already heard about the many health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, right? Among them are greatly reduced risks of heart attack, stroke and cancer. The reason for those benefits is simply that the Mediterranean Diet is anti-inflammatory!Here are the basics of the anti-inflammatory diet:• 90% plant-based foods (or more) • Fresh produce at every meal • No processed foods (made in a factory) • No fried foods, no cheap oils • Lots of cold-refined, extra virgin olive oil • Lots of avocados, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. • Drink fresh vegetable juice daily (juice it yourself!) • The best anti-inflammatory juices are cucumber and celery • Lots of superfoods (berries, sprouts, etc.) • Green tea and water as your beverages • Lots of raw walnuts, pecans and other nutsIf you switch to this kind of diet, you'll experience a complete reversal of inflammation in your body (that sounds like a bold, sweeping statement but it's really just cause and effect). And not just inflammation, but also cancer, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression, kidney stones, osteoporosis, allergies and many other degenerative health conditions. This is the diet of LIFE, and it's the mainstay of the raw foods community that's right now curing serious diseases by juicing raw vegetables and fruits on a daily basis.Use high-potency supplements to support your anti-inflammatory dietThis is the diet I follow, and I need to tell you that I still take Zyflamend, too. Why? Because I exercise hard. My warm-up in the gym has now increased from 1,000 jump rope repetitions to 2,000. (And that's just my warm-up. The real workout begins after the rope jumping.) Powered by superfoods, I push my muscles beyond what most people would even consider possible, and what I've learned is that if I don't take anti-inflammatory supplements, I feel a lot of soreness in my muscles for 1-2 days after a workout. So I take Zyflamend and astaxanthin, and they just work miracles for me. It allows me to undertake a very aggressive training schedule that keeps me fit, strong and incredibly active.I've covered astaxanthin in great detail in previous NaturalNews articles, and since then, I've come to appreciate this substance even more. It's part of my "secret recipe for active people" that generates unbelievable endurance. Since I started taking 16mg a day (four softgels) of astaxanthin, my workout performance has truly skyrocketed. I already mentioned the doubling of my rope jumping warmup, and there are lots of other exercises I've seen huge improvements on, such as leg press, floor crawls, Pilates moves, straight-arm pulldowns and even poi spinning exercises.At the same time, astaxanthin is a powerful anti-inflammatory supplement. In fact, that's one of its main benefits. The combination of Zyflamend and astaxanthin is just ridiculously effective at ending inflammation. That's why I gave astaxanthin my Editor's Choice award several months ago, and it's why I maintain such a strong recommendation for it.Want to get some? I would think so! Vitacost has their NSI Hawaii BioAstin Natural Astaxanthin product on sale right now for a whopping 66% off! It's simply the best deal on astaxanthin anywhere. Here's how to get it:FreeChoice Product Options: What's this?Option #1: Buy from Vitacost.com for $9.99 (66% off) - CLICK HERE A portion of each sale supports NaturalNews. (Thank you!)Option #2: Buy from Vitacost.com for $9.99 (66% off) - CLICK HERE NaturalNews receives nothing from your purchase.Option #3: Buy from your local health food store Prices typically vary from $20 - $39(Note: If you purchase from Vitacost, I recommend you skip the "$20 cash back" offer you'll see after your purchase. If you join it, you'll get signed up to a service called Shopping Essentials+ that charges you $19.95 a month. Just skip that offer.)Supplements for serious mobility and enduranceBy the way, it is these two supplements (astaxanthin and Zyflamend) combined with SunWarrior protein (www.SunWarrior.com) that are now powering my workouts. At age 38, I'm out-working guys in their 20's in the gym, and so far, not a single person has taken me up on my $10,000 fitness challenge to Big Pharma.Nobody ever will, by the way, because they know that a person taking anti-inflammatory medications simply cannot compete with someone powered by Mother Nature's superfoods. Meds don't beat superfoods, period!My $10,000 offer still stands. I'll give $10,000 to any person (at any age!) on multiple medications who can beat me in a contest of strength, endurance, coordination, flexibility and adaptability. You can read the full details of this public challenge here: http://www.naturalnews.com/023476.htmlThe only catch in this challenge is that contestants cannot be taking supplements or superfoods. And that's why they won't win: My joints, muscles and organs are powered by astaxanthin, SunWarrior protein, Zyflamend herbals, fresh vegetable juices, plus dozens of other superfoods and herbal medicines that I haven't even disclosed yet. (And one super-powerful trace mineral, by the way, that I will reveal in a few weeks...) I don't have to rely on luck to win; I only have to rely on the laws of basic human physiology.The 5 truths about inflammationSo that's my take on inflammation, Zyflamend, astaxanthin and the anti-inflammatory diet. I hope you get the big picture here. The main points I've covered are:1. Inflammation is the underlying cause of heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes and many other conditions.2. Inflammation is NOT caused by bad luck. It's caused by a bad diet.3. Inflammatory foods are meats, dairy, sodas, processed foods, fried foods and foods cooked at high temperatures. Keep a food diary if you want to discover just how many bad foods you're really eating.4. Anti-inflammatory foods are fresh, raw, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices. Eat more of this good stuff!5. Anti-inflammatory supplements like Zyflamend and astaxanthin are powerful modulators of inflammation, but don't use them as a way to avoid the responsibility of making serious changes to your diet. Use them to support your positive changes, and you'll see accelerated results!And finally, remember this: If you don't solve your inflammation problems naturally, some crazy doctor will no doubt put you on anti-inflammatory medications that double or triple your heart attack risk. Killing yourself with medications is not a smart way to treat your health concerns. Although, technically, it should be noted that death is one way to stop inflammation, and I'm sure that's what happened in a lot of Big Pharma's drug trials where they claim their drugs stopped inflammation.But I say, keep yourself alive with healthy foods, superfoods and smart supplements! Avoid death. Avoid pain. Avoid medication. Enjoy life with healthy foods, herbs and botanical supplements!"Zyflamend" Song by James A. DukeJim Duke, the world-renowned herbalist, author of The Green Pharmacy and creator of the brilliant online phytochemical database (http://www.ars-grin.gov/duke) sent me lyrics of a song he wrote about Zyflamend. (Jim is quite a musician, by the way.)This song was first sung at the Luna Nueva gardens in Costa Rica, where New Chapter grows many of its herbs. Here are the lyrics:GINGER, MY MAGIC PLANT; MAKE MY ALE A BIT MORE PIQUANT;YOUR FLAVOR'S JUST AS FEISTY AS YOUR FIZZ.I MARVEL AT YOUR QUICKNESS, AT CURBING MOTION SICKNESSAND HYPEREMESIS, ALL OF THIS!TURM'RIC MAKES IT MELLOW, TURNED MY GRAY BEARD HIPPY YELLOW,AS IT HELPED MY ARTHRITIC MISERY.MORE IMPORTANTLY TO ME, IT HELPS WITH MY TRICK KNEEAND IMPROVES MY ALZHEIMEMORY,O ZYFLAMEND, MY THANKS AGAIN!SHOULD I WHISPER IT OR JUST JUMP UP AND SHOUT?'TIS NO GREAT MYSTERY, YOU WORKED JUST LIKE MY CEL'RY.BLESSED ME, YOU PREVENTED YEARS OF GOUT!GREEN TEA, OR SO THEY SAY, CAN TAKE THE WEIGHT AWAY,ITS SYNERGIES ARE GREAT FOR LOSING WEIGHT.AND THOUGH IT IS STILL GREEN, IT DOES HAVE SOME CAFFEINE,JUST ENOUGH TO STIMULATE THE BRAIN.I'VE LONG HAD A ROMANCE, WITH THE HERB OF REMEMBRANCE;ROSEMARY HELPS OLD TIMERS SLOW ALZHEIMER'S.JUST SMELLED OR JUST INHALED, IN THE TUB OR IN A RUB,HELPS THE CHOLINE TO DO IT'S MEM'RY THING.LIKE MOST ITALIANOS, I LOVE MY OREGANOS,THE OIL IT WILL TREAT MOST EVERYTHINGMAKES A PIZZA TASTE MUCH BETTER, MAKES A DRY DREAM SOMEWHAT WETTERDON'T PANIC, IT CURED A NYMPHOMANIC.ZYFLAMEND! YOU ARE MY FRIEND!KEPT MY GOUT FROM COMING BACK AGAIN!YOU'RE THE BEST PILL TO CHOOSE, FOR CURBINGS THOSE COX-2'S.ZYFLAMEND, THANKS AGAIN, YOU ARE MY FRIEND.BARBERRY'S BERBERINE, IS A MAGIC MEDICINE,WIPING OUT MOST EVERY GERM, YOU SEE;CAN HELP ONE TO SUPPLANT, THE MULTI-DRUG RESISTANTBERBERINE AND MHC, MIGHT CURB TB.THE SKULLCAP FROM BAICAL, MOST MAGICAL OF ALL,EVEN HELPS TO CONTROL THE COMMON COLD.IT'S ANOTHER ONE I CHOOSE, TO INHIBIT MY COX-2SCOULDN'T SLEEP! BUT NOW I SLEEP REAL DEEP!GOLDTHREAD, IT NOW APPEARS, ENRICHES GOLDEN YEARS;LIKE BARBERRY CONTAINS THE BERBERINE.BERBERINE, HOW LONG IT'S BEEN, SINCE YOU WERE IN VISINEBERBERINE HELPS SIMULATED TEARS.OH THE MEXICAN BAMBOO, KNOWN AS HU XIANG TOOCAN BE GOOD FOR WHATEVER'S AILING YOURESVERATROL BEATS HADACOL AND INHIBITS COX-2 TOOAND IT SHOOTS ARE BETTER THAN BAMBOOANOTHER HERB YOU MUST SEE, IS THE AYURVEDIC TULSI (HOLY BASIL)IT SMELLS BEST, MUCH BETTER THAN THE REST.IT PROB'LY WON'T SURPRISE YOU BUT IT'S SACRED TO THE HINDU;HELPS AMNESIA AND DEMENTIA, ''TIS QUITE TRUE!OH ZYFLAMEND, I THANK YOU FRIEND!YOU HELPED PROLONG MY HAPPY LIFE.I'M HERE TO CELEBRATE; THAT I STILL HAVE MY PROSTATE!ZYFLAMEND, YOU SAVED ME FROM THE KNIFE!ZYFLAMEND, MY THANKS AGAIN. YOU'VE BEEN A FRIEND.Support the Green Farmacy Garden Tours with Jim Duke; now booking for 2008, two hours, 1-20 people (following tours possible; Amerindian, Aroma, Ayurvedic, Biblical, Chinese, Color-Code, Ferns; Homeopathic; Invasive Weeds, Local Flora; Shakespearean). Read more about Dr. James Duke: http://www.ars-grin.gov/duke/syllabus/instructor.htm (Source: NaturalNews.com)