Blood circulation disorders

Most of the blood circulation disorders are typical modern diseases with causative life style factors. The least you can do is to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Arteriosclerosis is a term used to describe several blood circulation disorders that involve the cardiovascular system and the many arteries and vessels which make it up. Arteriosclerosis is often referred to as "hardening of the arteries."

Arteriosclerosis occurs over a period of many years during which the arteries of the cardiovascular system develop areas which become hard and brittle. Vessels become thickened. There is a loss of elasticity. It can involve the arteries of the cardiovascular system, the brain, kidneys, upper and lower extremities. This occurs because of the deposition of calcium in their walls. This generally leads to another blood circulation disorder: increased blood pressure (hypertension).

Another form of blood circulation disorder is arteriolar sclerosis which involves both the inner and medial layers of smaller arteries the limbs, eyes, and internal organs. This condition causes decreased blood flow to these tissues which can create blood circulation problems, peripheral vascular disease, impaired circulation to the eyes and kidneys causing blindness and kidney failure.

Arteriosclerosis cannot only narrow arteries but it can also cause nodules in the arterial walls and ultimately obliterate the canal of the artery entirely.
There are a number of factors which are causative these include:
• hypertension
• diabetes
• smoking
• obesity.

Atherosclerosis is a blood circulation disorder which differs from arteriosclerosis. It involves the build up of fatty deposits in the innermost lining of large and medium-sized arteries. Atherosclerosis often leads to coronary heart disease, strokes, and other disorders because of the occurrence of blood clots which form in the narrowed arteries. Atherosclerosis invades both the superficial and deep layers of the vessel walls. Hardening of the arteries, on the other hand occurs only in advanced stages.

Cholesterol can be both good and bad, so it's important to learn what cholesterol is, how it affects your health and how to manage your blood cholesterol levels. Understanding the facts about cholesterol will help you take better care of your heart and live a healthier life, reducing your risk for blood circulation problems, especially heart attack and stroke.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the major cholesterol carrier in the blood. If too much LDL cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the walls of the arteries feeding the heart and brain.
Together with other substances LDL can form plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog those arteries. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, it can cause a heart attack or stroke. The levels of HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the blood are measured to evaluate the risk of having a heart attack.
About one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol is carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Medical experts think HDL tends to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it's passed from the body. Some experts believe HDL removes excess cholesterol from plaques and thus slows their growth. HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol because a high HDL level seems to protect against heart attack.
Most of the cholesterol is produced by the liver from so-called triglycerides, a chemical name for “fat”. We make a distinction between saturated (butter), monounsaturated (olive oil) and polyunsaturated fats (fish oil). The mechanism for the production of cholesterol by the liver seems to be: the more saturated fat is in the diet, the more LDL the liver will produce.
To control your cholesterol, get a cholesterol screening, eat foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol, maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly.

Hypertension is another blood circulation disorder: high blood pressure which means high pressure (tension) in the arteries. The arteries are the vessels that carry blood from the pumping heart to all of the tissues and organs of the body. High blood pressure does not mean excessive emotional tension, although emotional tension and stress can temporarily increase the blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80; blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 is called “pre-hypertension”, and a blood pressure of 140/90 or above is considered high blood pressure. The systolic blood pressure, which is the top number, represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries. The diastolic pressure, which is the bottom number, represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes after the contraction. The diastolic pressure, therefore, reflects the minimum pressure to which the arteries are exposed.

An elevation of the systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure increases the risk of developing several blood circulation problems: heart (cardiac) disease, kidney (renal) disease, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis or arteriosclerosis), eye damage, and stroke (brain damage). It is a major public health problem.

Stress is a major cause of illness. Stress is the Number One health problem. Stress not only causes but is also the result of most illnesses. Studies suggest that between 70% and 80% of all illnesses seen in medical practices are caused by stress. Since most physicians are neither trained to recognize stress nor treat it, most of these people stay sick for years. Stress is rarely considered as a cause or contributing factor. Because of this most Stress-Related Illnesses go undetected and unresolved.

Anaemia, one of the more common blood circulation disorders, occurs when the number of healthy red blood cells decreases in the body. The disc-shaped red blood cells contain haemoglobin, a unique molecule that carries oxygen to the body's tissues.
Anaemia occurs for different reasons. These include:
• Increased destruction (break down) of red blood cells.
• Increased blood loss from the body.
• Inadequate production of red blood cells by the bone marrow.

The most common cause of anaemia is iron deficiency. Iron is needed to form haemoglobin. Iron is mostly stored in the body in the haemoglobin. Iron-deficiency anaemia may be caused by the following:
• Diets low in iron. Iron is obtained from foods in our diet; however, only 1 mg of iron is absorbed for every 10 to 20 mg of iron ingested. A person unable to have a balanced iron-rich diet may suffer from some degree of iron-deficiency anaemia.
• Body changes. An increased iron requirement and increased red blood cell production is required when the body is going through changes such as growth spurts in children and adolescents, or during pregnancy and lactation.
• Gastrointestinal tract abnormalities. Mal-absorption of iron is common after some forms of gastrointestinal surgeries. Most of the iron taken in by foods is absorbed in the upper small intestine. Any abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract could alter iron absorption and result in iron-deficiency anaemia.
• Blood loss. Loss of blood can cause a decrease of iron and result in iron-deficiency anaemia. Sources of blood loss may include menstrual bleeding or injury.

The following are the most common symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Abnormal paleness or lack of colour of the skin.
• Irritability.
• Lack of energy or tiring easily (fatigue).
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia).
• Sore or swollen tongue.
• Enlarged spleen.
• A desire to eat peculiar substances such as dirt or ice (a condition called pica).

The symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia may resemble other blood conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Natural ingredients with known benefits for blood circulation disorders:

Garlic was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, chewed by Greek Olympian athletes. Garlic is good for zapping bacteria, keeping your heart healthy, warding off coughs and colds.

There are many benefits associated with taking garlic regularly. There are many well designed studies published around the world that confirm that garlic in several forms can reduce cholesterol. Researchers were able to study how garlic works at the molecular level using allicin, garlic's main biologically active component. New research shows that taking garlic during pregnancy can cut the risk of pre-eclampsia (raised blood pressure and protein retained in the urine). Garlic is also an excellent natural antimicrobial drug that can disable an unusually wide variety of infectious organisms.

Supplement with garlic

Ginkgo benefits the blood circulation by increasing blood flow to the brain and throughout the body's network of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the organ systems. It increases metabolism efficiency, regulates neurotransmitters, and boosts oxygen levels in the brain which uses 20% of the body's oxygen.

Benefits of enhanced blood circulation in the brain include improved short and long term memory, increased reaction time and improved mental clarity. Ginkgo is often used to treat elderly persons with Alzheimer's and other symptoms of cerebral insufficiency. Cerebral insufficiency is a general term for a collection of symptoms that include difficulties of concentration and memory, absentmindedness, confusion, lack of energy, depressive mood, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache.

Ginkgo constituents are beneficial for a variety of imbalances and deterioration in the brain and body. Standardized ginkgo extract inhibits platelet activity factor (PAF), which is a common allergen in the body. Physical stress, and poor quality food can overstimulate PAF production; in other words, blood clotting. Excessive PAF can help cause cardiovascular disease, brain damage, hearing disorders and other immune and inflammatory diseases.

Ginkgo has been used to relieve tension and anxiety and improve mental alertness, elevate mood and restore energy. Ginkgo may also help control the transformation of cholesterol to plaque associated with the hardening of arteries, and can relax constricted blood circulation in vessels. Ginkgo's beneficial effects on the blood circulation system also can be of benefit in the treatment of eye and ear disorders.

Supplement with Ginkgo

Omega-3 is the name given to a family of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The parent omega-3 - alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) - is described as 'essential' as, like vitamins, it must be obtained from diet. However, from the point of view of human nutrition, the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are considered much more valuable as these are the forms the body requires. Scientists have concluded that EPA and DHA should be obtained from diet. Oil-rich fish and supplements such as fish oil and cod liver oil are the richest and most readily available sources.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are further divided into two sub-groups called omega-6 and omega-3. Both of these groups are essential for good health and normal growth. Their differences lie in their chemical structure and their roles in the body. If the diet is deficient in either omega-6 or omega-3 long-term degenerative illnesses will result.
Lack of omega-6 fatty acids, however, is extremely rare in diets of those living in Western countries. Diets tend to have too much omega-6, particularly in relation to omega-3 fatty acids. This imbalance contributes to long-term diseases such as blood circulation disorders, cancer, asthma, arthritis, and depression. For optimum health and disease prevention, the balance should consist of one to four times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. A typical American diet, however, tends to contain 11 to 30 times more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. In contrast, a Mediterranean diet is made up of a healthier and more appropriate balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The Mediterranean diet includes a generous amount of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, and garlic; plus, there is little meat, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids.

Because of their role in cell membranes, omgega-3 fatty acids are essential for the formation of new tissue and are therefore important for development and growth. Known to be essential to brain and vision development during the last three months of pregnancy, the omega-3 fatty acids continue to play a major health role at every stage of life through the prevention and management of certain diseases and chronic conditions.

The omega-3 works in several ways to reduce blood circulation problems and heart attach risk:

• Anti-thrombotic.
• Triglyceride reduction.
• Arrhythmia prevention.
• Inhibition of inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s have been shown to stabilise arterial plaques so they are less likely to rupture and lead to a heart attack.
• Arterial elasticity.
• Blood viscosity is lowered.

The beneficial health effects of olive oil are due to both its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and its high content of ant oxidative substances (particularly vitamin E and phenols). Studies have shown that olive oil offers protection against blood circulation disorders by controlling LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels while raising HDL (the "good" cholesterol) levels. No other naturally produced oil has as large an amount of monounsaturated as olive oil -mainly oleic acid (also called Omega-9).

Supplement with Omega-3 and Omega-9

Betacarotene is a natural food substance found in red, yellow and orange fruit and vegetables. As an important member of the carotenoid family and as a precursor to Vitamin A in the human body, it may offer some incredible life preserving benefits. The powerful antioxidant effects of Betacarotene made it the subject of numerous studies and trials around the world, especially in the areas of blood circulation and cancer. Reports exploding with favourable data are now surfacing from some of these studies. Patients supplemented with betacarotene reported significant increases in HDL levels. (HDL being the good form of cholesterol that helps reduce the risk of coronary heart disease). In another study, it was found that those supplementing with betacarotene showed significantly less chance of heart attack and stroke than those who were not. Cancers are caused by mutations or abnormal changes in the DNA of the cells. These changes may be triggered by viruses, pollution, lowered resistance or even genetic factors which may lay dormant until triggered by environmental conditions. These mutations may begin in one cell or in a group of cells. Eventually the cells multiply until they form large areas of diseases tissue. After a time the cancerous cells may begin to spread throughout the body via the lymph system or the bloodstream where they may then form secondary cancers in other parts of the body. Much of the research into betacarotene in relation to cancer has been as a preventative measure.

Betacarotene is a powerful antioxidant. As such it protects the cells against the onslaught of damaging free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that float freely throughout the body seeking out normal healthy cells to use to rebalance themselves. Free radical damage may be responsible for a dangerous chain reaction that could possibly result in chronic diseases. Betacarotene may also be useful to the immune system, in preventing some of the effects of ageing, and in the treatment of acne and other skin disorders.

As a carotenoid, betacarotene is able to be converted in the body into Vitamin A, an important vitamin necessary for growth, healthy eyes, skin and mucous membranes, tooth and bone development, healthy tissues and reproduction ability. However, Vitamin A in large doses over a prolonged period of time can be toxic, as it accumulates in the fatty tissues of the body. The remarkable value of betacarotene is that it will only convert to Vitamin A as the body requires it. This controlled conversion ensures its safety and non-toxicity as a source of Vitamin A. The unwanted betacarotene stays in the body’s blood circualtion system and is finally stored in the tissues. There it may play an invaluable role as an antioxidant, slowing down the ageing process and protecting cells against the harmful free radical damage that comes from the environment in the forms of pollution, cigarette smoke and other toxins.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that exists in eight different forms. Each form has its own biological activity, which is the measure of potency or functional use in the body. Alpha-tocopherol is the name of the most active form of vitamin E in humans. It is also a powerful biological antioxidant. Vitamin E in supplements is usually sold as alpha-tocopheryl acetate, a form that protects its ability to function as an antioxidant. The synthetic form is labelled "D, L" while the natural form is labelled "D". The synthetic form is only half as active as the natural form.

Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of energy metabolism. Free radicals can damage cells and may contribute to the development of blood circulation disorders and cancer.

Vitamin E deficiency is rare in humans. Blood levels of vitamin E may also be decreased with zinc deficiency. Individuals who cannot absorb fat require a vitamin E supplement because some dietary fat is needed for the absorption of vitamin E from the gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal disorders that often result in malabsorption of vitamin E may require vitamin E supplementation. (Crohn's Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the small intestines. People with Crohn's disease often experience diarrhea and nutrient malabsorption. Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disease that effects the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and liver. Cystic fibrosis can interfere with normal digestion and absorption of nutrients, especially of fat soluble vitamins including vitamin E.)
People who cannot absorb fat often pass greasy stools or have chronic diarrhea. People with an inability to secrete bile, a substance that helps fat digestion, may need a special water-soluble form of vitamin E.

Preliminary research has led to a widely held belief that vitamin E may help prevent or delay coronary heart disease. Researchers have reported that oxidative changes to LDL-cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) promote blockages in the blood circulation (atherosclerosis) that may lead to heart attacks. Vitamin E may help prevent or delay blood circulation disorders and coronary heart disease by limiting the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol . Vitamin E also may help prevent the formation of blood clots, which could lead to a heart attack. Observational studies have associated lower rates of heart disease with higher vitamin E intake.

Supplement with Betacarotene and Vitamin E

Iron is an essential mineral for humans because it is part of blood cells. About 30% of the iron in the human body is in storage to be readily available to replace any that is lost. Iron is essential to the formation of haemoglobin and myoglobin, which carry oxygen in the blood and muscles. It also makes up part of many proteins and enzymes in the body. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. Although full-blown anaemia is rarely evident, partial deficiency is widespread.

Amino Acids, Proteins, Enzymes And Why They Are Vital To Health?


Amino acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. They are the "building blocks" of the body. Besides building cells and repairing tissue, they form antibodies to combat invading bacteria and viruses; they are part of the enzyme and hormonal system; they build nucleoproteins (RNA & DNA); they carry oxygen throughout the body and participate in muscle activity. When protein is broken down by digestion the result is 22 known amino acids. Eight are essential (cannot be manufactured by the body) and the rest are non essential (can be manufactured by the body with proper nutrition).

Essential amino acids

Tryptophan

Tryptophan is one of the amino acids working as a natural relaxant helping to alleviate insomnia by inducing normal sleep and reducing anxiety and depression. It helps in the treatment of migraine headaches and it helps to reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of artery and heart spasms.

Lysine

Lysine is involved in the adequate absorption of calcium and helps to form collagen (which makes up bone cartilage and connective tissues). It also aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. Recent studies have shown that this is one of the amino acids that may be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anaemia and reproductive problems.

Methionine

Among the amino acids this is the principle supplier of sulphur which prevents disorders of the hair (influences hair follicles and promotes hair growth), skin and nails. It helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys. It’s also a natural chelating agent for heavy metals and it regulates the formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine.

Phenylalaine

Amino acids are important for the nerve system. Phenylalaine is used by the brain to produce Norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells and the brain which keeps you awake and alert, reduces hunger pains, functions as an antidepressant and helps to improve memory.

Threonine

Threonine is an important constituent of collagen, elastin, and enamel protein. It helps to prevent fat build-up in the liver and it helps the digestive and intestinal tracts to function more smoothly. It assists metabolism and assimilation.

Valine

This amino acid is said to promote mental vigour, muscle coordination and calm emotions.

Leucine and isoleucine

Amino acids that provide ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.

Non essential amino acids

Arginine
Studies have shown that this is one of the amino acids which has improved immune responses to bacteria, viruses and tumour cells, promotes wound healing and regeneration of the liver, causes the release of growth hormones and is considered crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is one of more amoni acids known to transmit nerve impulses to the brain, to help overcome depression, to improve memory, to increase mental alertness and to promote the healthy functioning of the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands.

Glycine

Glycine helps to trigger the release of oxygen to the energy requiring cell-making process. It’s also important in the manufacturing of hormones responsible for a strong immune system.

Serine

With other amino acids serine works as A storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles, helps strengthen the immune system by providing antibodies and synthesizes fatty acid sheath around nerve fibres.

Glutamic acid

Considered to be nature's "brain food" for improving mental capacities. It helps to speed the healing of ulcers, gives a "lift" from fatigue, helps to control alcoholism, schizophrenia and the craving for sugar.

Aspartic acid

When ammonia enters the circulatory system it acts as a highly toxic substance which can be harmful to the central nervous system. Aspartic acid aids in the expulsion of harmful ammonia from the body. Recent studies have shown that aspartic acid may increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.

Taurine

Helps stabilize the excitability of membranes which is very important in the control of epileptic seizures. Taurine and sulphur are considered to be factors necessary for the control of many biochemical changes that take place in the aging process. Taurine aids in the clearing of free radical wastes.

Cystine

Some amino acids function as antioxidant. Cystine is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. It can help to slow down the aging process, to deactivate free radicals and to neutralize toxins. It aids in protein synthesis and presents cellular change. It is necessary for the formation of the skin, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations.

Histidine

Histidine is found abundantly in haemoglobin and has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers and anaemia. A deficiency can cause poor hearing.

Proline

Proline is extremely important for the proper functioning of joints and tendons and also helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.

Alanine

Together with other amino acids alanine is an important source of energy for muscle tissue, the brain and central nervous system. It strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies and helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids.


The living cell is the site of tremendous biochemical activity called metabolism. This is the process of chemical and physical change which goes on continually in the living organism: build-up of new tissue, replacement of old tissue, conversion of food to energy, disposal of waste materials, reproduction - all the activities that we characterize as "life". An enzyme is a protein that catalyzes, or speeds up, a chemical reaction. Enzymes may speed up reactions by a factor of many thousands. An enzyme, like any catalyst, remains unaltered by the completed reaction and can therefore continue to function. Enzyme activity can be affected by other molecules. (Inhibitors are molecules that decrease or abolish enzyme activity; activators are molecules that increase the activity.) Many drugs are enzyme inhibitors. Aspirin, for example, inhibits an enzyme that produces the inflammation messenger thus suppressing pain and inflammation.

Enzymes are also used in everyday products such as washing detergents, where they speed up chemical reactions involved in cleaning the clothes (for example, breaking down starch stains).
More than 5,000 enzymes are known. To name different enzymes, one typically uses the ending -ase with the name of the chemical being transformed (substrate) (lactase is the enzyme that catalyzes the cleavage of lactose).
All known enzymes are proteins. They are high molecular weight compounds made up principally of chains of amino acids linked together.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------