Supplements

Dr. Deol recommends a lot of nutraceuticals. Here are some that he personally consumes and recommends to his family and patients. Quality does matter in what you put inside your body.

Dr Deol carries most of these high quality supplements at his office. All products at the office are at least 20% Off and frequently more.

Vitamin C: Still the All-Around Antioxidant Champ / Heart disease may be a form of Scurvy.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is one of the best-known antioxidants. Vitamin C promotes heart, immune, bone, and joint health as well as healthy mood.

Take several forms of vitamin C to gut tolerance, plus lypospheric vitamin C and Ascobyl Palmitate ( the fat soluble form of vitamin C). L-proline and L-lysine work synergistically with vitamin C to rebuilt damaged blood vessels and prevent arteriosclerosis.

Recommended dose: Take at least 2000 mg daily. In addition, eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries and citrus fruits such as pink grapefruit and oranges.

Note: If you have high iron (ferritin) levels (Hemochromatosis), be careful about megadosing with vitamin C. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron, and too much iron is a risk factor for heart disease. Top of Page.

Omega 3 Fatty Acid - Massive deficiency

Hundreds of years ago, we consumed ~ 2 Omega 6 FA to 1 Omega 3 FA. Now average American consumes 20 or more Omega 6 FA to 1 Omega 3 FA. This imbalance is responsible for inflammation in our body, numerous disorders including heart disease, arthritis, ADD, dementia and more. Consider getting a Omega 3/6 blood test.

Eating 8 ounces of fish a week is good idea if you can get wild Alaskan salmon, otherwise take high quality mercury free mixed fish oil.

Recommended Dose: 2000mg of fish oil containing 720 mg EPA and 480 mg DHA at least. 400 I.U. of natural mixed Vitamin E taken simultaneously will potentiate the effect of fish oil. Top of Page.

Vitamin D - Super vitamin / hormone

Vitamin D is formed from cholesterol in the skin through biosynthesis due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or can be obtained from dietary intake. However, Vitamin D absorption through the intestinal tract decreases as we age, and exposure to UV rays can be greatly diminished during winter months. Checking blood levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D - 25(OD)D is worthwhile.

Harvard researchers recently reported that to increase 25(OH)D levels from 12 to 35.5 ng/mL approximately 3,000 IU of vitamin D per day would be needed.

There is growing evidence of health benefits of vitamin D for healthy cellular function, calcium absorption, cancer protection, heart health and immune function. Low levels are associated with greater mortality.

Recommended Dose: At least 2000 IU daily of D3

Vitamin E Tocopherols and Tocotrienols: One of Your Heart's Best Friends

Vitamin E consists of 4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols. Take only mixed Vitamin E with all 8 forms. Mixed natural vitamin E promotes healthy cell membranes and cholesterol levels, anti-aging and cancer prevention.

The synthetic vitamin E - most common Vitamin E sold (dl alpha tocopheryl) is essentially worthless, and can cause more harm than good.

Recommended dose: Tocopherols 400 IU / day. Women with hot flashes or night sweats 800 IU / day. Tocotrienols: 40 - 80 mg per day. Top of Page.

Colorful Carotenoids:

Consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables has long been associated with promoting overall health including heart and eye health. Fruits and vegetables have flavonoids, carotenoids and other antioxidants which reduce risk of numerous health conditions, and promote a stronger immune system.

But it can be a challenge to consume the 5-9 servings every day. Fructose in fruits may increase sugar and triglyceride levels, and need to be limited.

That's why it makes sense to take out the additional "insurance" in fruit and vegetable supplements.  Take mixed carotenoid complex which includes alpha carotene, beta carotene, gamma carotene, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, lycopene and lutein.

Recommended dose: Mixed Carotenoid complex of up to 10,000 IU per day. Top of Page.

Lutein: The French Paradox Explained

When news broke a few years back that red wine seemed to protect the French from heart health problems, some of you may have stocked up on Cabernet or Beaujolais! But there's a healthier way to protect your cholesterol, heart and your eyes, and that is found in a carotenoid called lutein.

Lutein is a yellow carotenoid pigment found at the center of retina, called macula. Lutein is believed to protect eyes, as a light filter, and as an anti-oxidant.

This antioxidant nutrient is found in most fruits and vegetables, most abundantly in egg yolk, and several plants including red peppers, collard greens, kale, leeks, peas, romaine lettuce, mustard and spinach.

Recommended dose: Take at least 20 mg a day. Top of Page.

Magnesium: Unsung Hero of Heart Health

Magnesium is essential for healthy cell and heart function. It is crucial to produce the high-energy bonds that drive the energy machinery of your cells and is used in over 300 biochemical reactions of the body.

Magnesium deficiency is common and can lead to muscle weakness and tremors (spasm), and is critical for proper heart muscle function, normalize arrhythmia's, and helps to reduce blood pressure.

Less than 25% of Americans meet even the low RDA standard. Requirement is higher if you take intake of sugar and fat is high in diet. The calcium to magnesium ratio should be between 1:1 to 1:2.

Recommended dose: Take 500 to 1000 mg daily of a good magnesium salt like glycinate or chelate (not oxide) Top of Page.

Calcium: The Other Half of the Dynamic Duo

Most people are vitamin D deficient and do not absorb calcium properly in the gut requiring high doses as recommended by most authorities. If you take supplemental vitamin D3, then only need small amount of good quality calcium like glycinate, aspartate (not calcium carbonate).

Calcium is important because of its synergistic relationship with magnesium. Although most people associate calcium deficits with poor bone health, low levels can cause high blood pressure, and higher risk of cancer.

Recommended dose: Take vitamin D3 2000 IU, 500 mg daily of calcium & magnesium. Top of Page.

B-Vitamins & Folic Acid: Essential for all

Vitamin B9 or Folic acid - active form is Folinic acid or 5 TetraHydroFolate (5 THF)

Folic acid, B6 and B12 are essential for reducing high homocysteine level, which is responsible for almost 10% of all heart attacks. Folic acid protects our chromosome from DNA damage and cancer, colon polyps, depression, heart disease and more. Folic acid in pregnant mothers lower the risk of serious and fully preventable birth defects. High doses of folic acid is helpful in menopausal symptoms.

Vitamin B6 - P5P is an active form of vitamin B6.

Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P) is the coenzyme for all enzymes involved in the conversion process for amino acids. P5P is also needed for hemoglobin production as well as for fatty acid and prostaglandin metabolism. In addition, P5P is necessary for neurotransmitter production, specifically for the production of dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin, GABA and glutamate.

Vitamin B12 - over 24% of people over 60 years old and over 40% of people over 80 years old are deficient due to decreased absorption with age. Deficiency also causes Alzheimer's Disease like symptoms. A must take for those over 50 years old as cheap and added insurance.

The better form of B!2 is methyl B12 and not cyano-cobalamin.

Recommended dose: Take at least 800 to 2000 mcg  folic acid, 50 to 100 mg of B6 especially P5P, 400 to 1000 mcg of MB12 in a B Complex supplement.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine)- 100 mg (6666% RDA) - critical for mental function and nerve cell growth. Non toxic and water soluble .

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) - 50 mg (2940% RDA) - required for cell growth and release of energy, formation of red blood cell, and synthesis of antibodies.

Vitamin B3 (niacin) - 190 mg ( 950% RDA) in the form of niacin and niacinamide - stabilizes cell membranes , ensure proper circulation and maintain healthy skin. Aids in the function of the nervous system and helps to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.

Vitamin B5 (panthothenic acid) - 400 mg ( 4000% RDA) - a non toxic nutrient needed to breakdown fat to covert into energy. An Anti-stress vitamin.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin) - is essential for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism, and healthy hair. Helps utilization of other B complex vitamins. Dose 10 mg daily. Top of Page.

Coenzyme Q10: Energy on Call

More than 100 clinical studies have documented the benefits of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is present in every cell and is needed for energy production. CoQ10 levels may be lowered by vegetarian diet, and by several medicines, especially Statins.

The heart is one of the few organs in the body to function continuously without resting; therefore, the heart muscle (myocardium) requires the highest level of energetic support and thereby CoQ10. Dietary sources of CoQ10 come mainly from beef heart, pork, chicken livers, fish (especially salmon, mackerel and sardines).

Recommended dose: Take 30-200 mg of water soluble CoQ10 per day. Top of Page.

L-Carnitine: Fuel for the Heart

While CoQ10 sparks the energy within the cells, L-carnitine is like a shuttle, bringing fuel into heart cells to be burned as energy. L-carnitine is essential for heart and kidney function, and in sugar and fat metabolism. Acetyl L-carnitine is essential for brain health.

Recommended dose: Take 500 to 2000 mg L-carnitine fumarate daily. Top of Page.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Antioxidant with a Twist

Alpha lipoic acid is considered a universal antioxidant because of its ability to promote healthy sugar levels, fight free radicals and conserve other important antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, glutathione and coenzyme Q10. And because it's fat and water soluble, alpha lipoic acid is readily dissolved and distributed throughout all the tissues and cells of your body, including the brain, where it readily crosses the blood/brain barrier to protect neural tissues.

As you age, your stores of lipoic acid decline. The best dietary source of lipoic acid is red meat.

Recommended dose: Take 100 - 600 mg of alpha lipoic acid daily. Top of Page.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC): Free-Radical Fighter

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) also helps raise levels of L-glutathione, one of the most potent free radical scavengers around. Teaming up with vitamin C to form glutathione peroxidase, glutathione supports red blood cell function. This sulfur-containing compound has been shown to promote healthy endothelial cells that line your coronary arteries and keep blood flowing smoothly by producing various chemical substances, which cause blood vessels to relax.

Recommended dose: Take 100 to 600 mg daily. Top of Page.

Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs): Bioflavonoids With Clout

You've probably heard about the benefits of red wine, green tea and grape juice. All are in the family of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). These free radical scavengers are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream where they cross the blood/brain barrier. They show great promise in supporting healthy circulation, including blood vessel elasticity, blood stickiness, clotting, plaque buildup, blood pressure and vein integrity. In addition, they may promote eye health.

Recommended dose: Take 30 - 60 mg daily. Top of Page.

L-arginine: Supercharged Amino Acid

The amino acid L-arginine is gaining favor as an essential nutrient to promote heart health. It is thought to be the primary source for the production of nitrogen molecules involved in maintaining the elasticity of blood vessels. Research has also shown that L-arginine may be helpful for people with high cholesterol and for men who suffer from impotence (as effective as Viagra in some studies).

Good sources of L-arginine include nuts, especially almonds and peanuts. You can also find L-arginine in meat and, to a lesser degree, in dairy products.

Recommended dose: Take 2 - 3 grams 1 - 3 times daily. Top of Page.

OTHER IMPORTANT VITAMINS / NUTRIENTS

Vitamin A (Anti-Oxidant) - 15000 I.U. ( 300% RDA) with no more than 5000 I.U. in Vitamin A palimtate and the rest in natural mixed beta carotene. You will not get overdosed or have toxic effects . More than 100 studies have shown that people with high levels of beta carotene in their diet have half as likely the chance of developing cancer and heart attack. Great source is cod liver oil where vitamin D protects against vitamin A toxicity. Top of Page.

Selenium (Anti-Oxidant)- 200 mcg ( 285 % RDA) in amino acid complex forms to enhance absorption. Selenium is a strong anti-oxidant and the level in our body falls with age. People with decreased levels of selenium is associated with higher incidence of heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Top of Page.

Chromium - 200 mcg (166% RDA) in chelated form for better absorption - Very little is contained in food and as a result , 90% of all Americans are deficient in the RDA of this trace element which is critical to normalize blood sugar. A Israel research shows that daily intake of 200 mcg of chromium improves insulin resistance in Type II Diabetes by up to 50 % in weeks. Top of Page.

Zinc - 30 mg ( 200% RDA) in chelated form for better absorption - 33% of healthy Americans over age 50 has zinc deficiency and don't know it. The percentage increase to 90% for those older . You need a daily calorie intake of 2400 kcal to get just the RDA . Zinc is critical for proper thymus gland and immune system function. Research has shown that daily intake of 30 mg of zinc reactive the immune system with dramatic improvements after 6 months in those with zinc deficiency. Top of Page.

Citrus Bioflavonoids 100 mg - potent anti-oxidants derived from plants that have metal binding (chelating) properties. Commonly found in grape seed. Top of Page.

Garlic - 500 mg in concentrated form - equivalent to 1250 mg garlic bulk or half a clove of fresh garlic. Garlic has been used by healers for over 5000 years . Numerous studies have shown that garlic decrease triglyceride level by decreasing fat absorption. It also supports healthy blood pressure. Two of garlic's major compounds - allicin and ajoene - have been found to possess powerful actions that help the body boost its immune power. A natural herb that is non toxic. Top of Page.

Evening Primrose Oil - 500 mg-1000 mg (standardized to 9% GLA) - an essential fatty acid. Strong anti-inflammatory properties and useful for arthritis, PMS, and skin conditions. Most researches uses 3000-6000 mg a day. EPO is especially good to balance the hormonal system. Top of Page.

Digestive Enzymes most people tend to have enzyme deficiency, causing lot of symptoms including gas, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, etc. Take combination enzymes before meals, containingat least lactase, Lipase, protease, cellulase, and amylase.If 1 set of enzymes does not work, try another. Top of Page.

Avoid Iron unless you are anemic. Top of Page.

Iodine Massive deficiency. Iodine is essential for all glanular functions, with maximum concentration in thyroid, then breast, ovaries, skin, brain etc. Low iodine results in numerous disorders including cyst formation, cancers, immune disorders. Most people will benefit from 7.5 mg daily. Top of Page.

Maganese 20 mg (1000% RDA) - trace mineral essential for protein and fat metabolism. Top of Page.

Molybdenum 50 mcg (66% RDA) - essential trace mineral for nitrogen metabolism. Top of Page.

Potassium 99 mg - critical for normal cardiac rhythm. Top of Page.

Boron 2 mg - enhance healthy bone and brain function and alertness. Top of Page.

Silicon 2.4 mg - needed in formation of collagen and connective tissues. Top of Page.

Vanadium 25 mcg - essential in formation of bone and teeth. Top of Page.

L-Lysine 600 mg - an essential amino acid for proper growth in children and protein synthesis in adult. Top of Page.

Choline 200 mg - responsible for proper neurotransmitter function , lecithin formation , liver function, and gall bladder regulation. Top of Page.

Inositol 100 mg - vital for hair growth and prevent hardening of arteries. Higher dose helps lower triglyceride levels.Top of Page.

PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) - basic constituent of many B complexes and anti-oxidants. Helps protect against sunburn and skin cancer. Top of Page.

Probiotics - Good bacteria or bioflora

Most people are deficient in good bioflora which are responsible for healthy gut. Antibiotics, chronic yeast infections, multiple medications, gut and immune disorders will all result in reduction of the favorable bioflora resulting in "leaky gut syndrome."

Supplements for the Healthy Heart


Vitamin C

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Vitamin D

Vitamin E and Tocotrienols
Carotenoids
Lutein
Magnesium
Calcium
B-Vitamins & Folic Acid
CoenzymeQ10
L-Carnitine
Alpha Lipoic Acid
N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs)
L-arginine
Other Important Nutrients

Vitamin A
Selenium
Chromium
Zinc
Citrus Bioflavonoids
Garlic
Primrose Oil
Digestive Enzymes
Avoid Iron
Iodine
Maganese
Molybdenum
Potassium
Boron
Silicon
Vanadium
L-Lysine
Choline
Inositol
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)

Probiotics

How to Pick a Good Multivitamin

How to Pick a Good Multivitamin

When shopping for a multivitamin, a Green (grass based) or mixed fruit / vegetable based multi-vitamin is good idea. Science has recognized numerous essential nutrients, but a lot have not been discovered. The Green grass MV will take care of the unknown beneficial nutrients. Look for some of these ingredients at the very minimum. The most advertised names may not be the best choice.

200 - 400 IU vitamin E (mixed tocopherols, gamma tocopherol, tocotrienols)
200 - 400 IU vitamin D
500 mg magnesium
100 - 200 mcg selenium
10 - 20 mg vitamin B1 (thiamine)
10 - 40 mg vitamin B3 (niacin)
200 mcg vitamin B12
10 - 20 mg zinc
10 - 40 mg quercetin
1 - 2 mg manganese
75 - 150 mg iodine (kelp)
50 mg inositol

CANCER: A good supplementation program by
Tom Levy MD


Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbate) 10,000 mg/d. Increase to maximum dose tolerated orally                                                                     Taking a variety of the important antioxidants has certain direct benefits in addition to keeping vitamin C levels up by continuously converting oxidized vitamin C back to the metabolically active reduced form.
Vitamin A (as beta carotene)
Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols & Tocotrienols) 400-800
B Complex vitamins.
B12 supplementation should be limited to documented states of deficiency (Prefer hydroxycobalamin instead of cyanocobalamin)
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) 300-600 mg/d
Coenzyme Q10 100-600 mg/d
Milk Thistle (as silibinin or silymarin) 240-800 mg/d
Glutathione (Reduced) 500 mg/d
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
Flavonoids, such as Quercetin and Rutin

Top of Page.

HEADACHES
 Helpful Natural Supplements &Treatments

OVERVIEW

Headaches are classified into three main types: tension, migraine, and cluster. Tension headaches are by far the most common, and can be caused by muscle tension, minor trauma, stress or anxiety, allergies, sinus or ear infections, or eye strain. They are usually dull, on both sides of the head (bilateral), and do not throb. Migraines affect about 5% of the population, mostly women, and are often triggered by the hormonal changes around their menstrual periods. They may also be caused by allergies, diets high in carbohydrates or salt, foods containing tyramine (aged cheese, processed meat), nuts, beer, wine, whiskey, chocolate, and some fruit (bananas, citrus fruit). Usually preceded by a visual aura, the pain is on one side of the head (unilateral) and is throbbing. Cluster headaches are more common in men, also on one side of the head (often around the eye), with a deep, nonthrobbing pain. They usually are of shorter duration than migraines.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR HEADACHES

There are several natural supplements that may help with headaches.

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – This water-soluble vitamin is important for energy production (low energy conditions can trigger migraines).

Magnesium – A deficiency of this macro mineral has been shown to be a cause of migraines. As a muscle relaxant, it may also help with tension headaches.

Less Helpful: vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), calcium.

Other Supplements

Coenzyme Q10 – This coenzyme may help with migraines by improving circulation and increasing energy production.

Melatonin – It is not clear why this hormone helps some people with migraines, but there is a theory that migraines can be caused by circadian rhythm irregularities.

Less Helpful: 5-HTP, arginine, essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6).

Herbs

Butterbur (Petasites hydridus) – Extracts of this herb have shown value in treating allergies, asthma, and migraines through prevention. It may take several months of use to become fully effective.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium & Chrysanthemum parthenium) – Extracts of this herb can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. As with butterbur, it needs to be taken for several months before it becomes most effective.

Less Helpful: ginger, ginkgo.

COMMENTS

IV Myer's may help acute headache. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) or Breathing pure oxygen can be helpful with cluster headaches. Aromatherapy with lavender or peppermint may also be helpful.

References
Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2008.
Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005.

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