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The Açai (ah-sigh-ee) Berry is found in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest. This little dark, purple berry boasts an ORAC (antioxidant) score of about 10 X the power of red grapes and up to 30 X times the anthocyanins of red wine! Its incredible power pack of antioxidants produce high levels of anthocyanins and polyphenols. These antioxidants are the substances that protect the cells against the damage from oxidation caused by “free radical” molecules. In addition to the anthocyanin’s potent antioxidant capabilities, anthocyanins are reported to have strong anti-viral properties.

Did you know that the antioxidants in the Açai Berry destroyed cultured human cancer cells in a recent University of Florida study? According to Stephen Talcott, an assistant professor with UF’s Institute of Food and agricultural Sciences, the study showed extracts from Açai Berries “triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86 percent of leukemia cells tested.” (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, January 2006). “In this type of experiment we look for two things. We try to see if the cancerous cells are dying, and we try to see if the cells release an enzyme known as caspase-3.” Caspase-3 is an enzyme released by cancerous cells as they die.On the Oprah Winfrey Show, special guest Dr. Nicholas Perricone, author of the best-seller, The Perricone Promise presented Açai as number one of the Top 10 Superfoods on the planet. He called it, “…one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world!”It’s no wonder people are going nuts over this amazing fruit from the Amazon. The Açai Berry is also loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12, as well as beta-carotene, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, fiber, protein and amino acids. It contains anti-inflammatories, anti-mutagenics and anti-bacterials. This berry is packed with phytonutrients which have been found to have potent antibacterial and anti-viral effects. Its phytosterol elements are made up of sterols which are components of plant cell membranes providing numerous reported benefits to the human body, namely the reduction of blood plasma cholesterol.Unlike other fruits, the Açai Berry also contains essential fatty acids with a ratio that resembles that of olive oil. It has about 60% Omega 9 (Oleic acid) and 12% Omega 6 (Linoleic acid). Research shows that Omega 9 fatty acids can help to lower LDL and maintain HDL (beneficial cholesterol) levels, while Omega 6 can help lower both LDL and HDL levels.Fruit juices are often avoided by diabetics and people watching their sugar intake. Yet, another unique quality of the Açai Berry is its low-glycemic factor, high protein and high fiber content. In The Insider’s Guide to America’s Worst & Best Supplements, Dr. Juliann Whitaker never thought he would ever recommend drinking a fruit juice. Nevertheless, when he discovered the Açai Berry’s contents, he gave it a “thumbs-up!”Buyer beware! Consumers must be careful when shopping for Açai, because this little gem has to be freeze dried within 24 hours or it loses its active properties. Spray drying the berries also destroys most of its nutrients. To make matters worse, most Açai products contain non-organic ingredients, fillers, stimulants, water or chemical preservatives, as well as added sugar, artificial sweeteners, fructose or lots of other fruit juices. When buying Açai, be sure to only purchase products that have passed the 10 Acai Product Quality Tests.

As we mentioned in previous articles, stroke is caused by uncontrolled diet that is high in saturated and trans fats resulting in cholesterol building up in the blood vessel in the brain that block the circulation of blood to the body, including cells in the brain. If not enough oxygen is delivered to the brain cells, some cells die off and can not reproduce, the you may have a stroke. Other strokes happen when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures causing the cells in your brain to be deprived of oxygen, thus they die and can never come back. Nutritional supplements have played an important role for nutritionally deficient patients in preventing stroke and here are are some of them:1. B-complexThree B-vitamins: folate, B-6, and B-12 can lower homocysteine, an amino acid that is found naturally in the body and study shows that the higher the level of homocysteine in the blood, the higher the risk of stroke.2. Beta-caroteneBeta-carotene is an antioxidant that may reduce oxidative stress to brain cells. Such stress occurs when highly volatile forms of oxygen damage cell structure. Study shows that beta- carotene helps to reduce the risk against cerebral infraction and stroke.3. Vitamin EVitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to reduce arterial clotting.4. SeleniumSelenium is a powerful agent that helps to keep tissues and arteries elastic. It also helps to reduce the stickiness of the blood and decreases the risk of clotting, in turn lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke. Selenium increases the ratio of HDL (good) cholesterol to LDL (bad) cholesterol.5. PycnogenolPycnogenol helps to keep collagen elastic and soften the blood platelets, making blood flow more efficiently.6. Co enzyme Q-10Co enzyme is a strong antioxidant that not only protects low density lipoprotein LDL against oxidants, but also helps for getting oxygen to the cells.7. LecithinLecithin is a fat-like substance called a phospholipid that helps to remove bad cholesterol and other lipids from the body. It also protects the arteries and organs from the build up of fatty tissue that can lead to stroke or heart attack.8. MelatoninMelatonin is a neurohormone produced in our body by the pineal gland. It is a powerful antioxidant that easily penetrates the blood-brain barrier and is used to treat thrombotic stroke.9. Vitamin CVitamin C helps to strengthen the arterial wall, lowering the risk of heart diseases and stroke.I hope this information will help. If you need more information, please visit my home page at:

Kyle J. Nortonhttp://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com/http://strokev.blogspot.com/

http://strokevii.blogspot.com/All rights reserved. Any reproducing of this article must have all the links intact.

The Açai (ah-sigh-ee) Berry is found in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest. This little dark, purple berry boasts an ORAC (antioxidant) score of about 10 X the power of red grapes and up to 30 X times the anthocyanins of red wine! Its incredible power pack of antioxidants produce high levels of anthocyanins and polyphenols. These antioxidants are the substances that protect the cells against the damage from oxidation caused by “free radical” molecules. In addition to the anthocyanin’s potent antioxidant capabilities, anthocyanins are reported to have strong anti-viral properties.

Did you know that the antioxidants in the Açai Berry destroyed cultured human cancer cells in a recent University of Florida study? According to Stephen Talcott, an assistant professor with UF’s Institute of Food and agricultural Sciences, the study showed extracts from Açai Berries “triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86 percent of leukemia cells tested.” (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, January 2006). “In this type of experiment we look for two things. We try to see if the cancerous cells are dying, and we try to see if the cells release an enzyme known as caspase-3.” Caspase-3 is an enzyme released by cancerous cells as they die.On the Oprah Winfrey Show, special guest Dr. Nicholas Perricone, author of the best-seller, The Perricone Promise presented Açai as number one of the Top 10 Superfoods on the planet. He called it, “…one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world!”It’s no wonder people are going nuts over this amazing fruit from the Amazon. The Açai Berry is also loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12, as well as beta-carotene, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, fiber, protein and amino acids. It contains anti-inflammatories, anti-mutagenics and anti-bacterials. This berry is packed with phytonutrients which have been found to have potent antibacterial and anti-viral effects. Its phytosterol elements are made up of sterols which are components of plant cell membranes providing numerous reported benefits to the human body, namely the reduction of blood plasma cholesterol.Unlike other fruits, the Açai Berry also contains essential fatty acids with a ratio that resembles that of olive oil. It has about 60% Omega 9 (Oleic acid) and 12% Omega 6 (Linoleic acid). Research shows that Omega 9 fatty acids can help to lower LDL and maintain HDL (beneficial cholesterol) levels, while Omega 6 can help lower both LDL and HDL levels.Fruit juices are often avoided by diabetics and people watching their sugar intake. Yet, another unique quality of the Açai Berry is its low-glycemic factor, high protein and high fiber content. In The Insider’s Guide to America’s Worst & Best Supplements, Dr. Juliann Whitaker never thought he would ever recommend drinking a fruit juice. Nevertheless, when he discovered the Açai Berry’s contents, he gave it a “thumbs-up!”Buyer beware! Consumers must be careful when shopping for Açai, because this little gem has to be freeze dried within 24 hours or it loses its active properties. Spray drying the berries also destroys most of its nutrients. To make matters worse, most Açai products contain non-organic ingredients, fillers, stimulants, water or chemical preservatives, as well as added sugar, artificial sweeteners, fructose or lots of other fruit juices. When buying Açai, be sure to only purchase products that have passed the 10 Acai Product Quality Tests.

—————————————————

Guggul:

Guggul is the name given to the yellowish resin produced by the stem of the

mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree found throughout India. It has been used

in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries in the treatment of arthritis, obesity,

and one of its prime uses was for “medoroga”. Medoroga is basically an

ancient diagnosis for what we know as atherosclerosis. It was effective for

this problem because of its ability to lower serum cholesterol and

triglycerides.

Guggul extract isolates contain safe plant steroid compounds known as

guggulsterones, which have been shown to lower lipid levels in your

blood. They actually lower serum triglycerides and cholesterol, as well as

LDL VLDL cholesterols (the “bad” ones) and as a bonus..raises HDL cholesterol

(the “good” guys). Guggulsterones also act as antioxidants in that they keep

LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, protecting you further from

atherosclerosis. Guggul has also decreased the “stickiness” of platelets,

which of course also lowers the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.Â

There was a study which actually found guggul extract similar and even

slightly better than clobfibrate for lowering cholesterol levels…..

Niacin:

For some time, some practitioners have been using high amounts of niacin

(Vitamin B3) (also called nicotinic acid) to lower cholesterol. The problem

with this is that at the doses needed, about 3 grams per day, divided dosing,

patients experience side effects of flushing, headache, stomach pains and

even chronic liver damage, diabetic responses, gastritis or stomach

inflammation, eye damage and even gout. The other common form of B3 -

niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) - does NOT help cholesterol levels.

An acceptable variation on niacin called inositol hexaniacinate has more

recently been prescribed by European doctors for cholesterol treatment

without the unwanted effects of niacin. It is used at the 500 to 1,000 mg

taken three times per day. It is newer and fewer studies have been done, so

if one takes it, make sure you have your cholesterol monitored to evaluate

its effectiveness and have liver enzymes, uric acid and glucose levels

checked just to be sure you are not one of the people prone to problems with

B3 therapy…..

[You may also try niacin in the form of "no flush" niacin hexaniacinate,

which most health shops sell - alone or in combination with small doses (less

than 150mg) of regular niacin (to minimise the uncomfortable flushing). It

is a good idea to take the niacin in combination with other members of the

vitamin B family - vit B complex, with at least 50mg of most Bs. MCS]

Other Factors:

Supplementing with Vitamin E (800 IU per day), Vitamin C (2-3 grams per day),

Octacosanol (from wheat germ..another good reason to use this food, as it is

also high in beta-sitosterol), Lecithin (2-3 grams per day), and garlic

supplements (600-900 mg per day) all have shown to be very helpful in

reducing cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

*** Here is some very brief information on other helpful supplements to

assist in managing different cardiovascular problems.

OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING SUPPLEMENTS

Since lecithin is a very effective emulsifying agent, which also contains

choline and inositol, some authorities also suggest taking at least 1200mg of

lecithin capsules or granules 3 times daily. By the way, for those who take

skim or reduced fat milk, blending or shaking a teaspoon or two of lecithin

granules into the milk makes it taste much creamier and more palatable - add

according to your personal taste.

Chinese red yeast extract

Chromium picolinate

L-carnitine (2-4gm daily on an empty stomach)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Bromelain and pectin enzymes (on an empty stomach)

Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) 1000mg daily (begin with 200-400mg daily)

Vitamin C (plus bioflavonoids)

Oats (fibre) and other brans

Olive oil (raw, virgin, cold pressed, kept in refrigerator)

Fish oil

Green tea

Hawthorne berry (also for heart arrhythmias and hypertension)

Grapefruit (note that this can accentuate the effects of some cardiac drugs)

Boswellia

Aloe Vera

Alfalfa

Dandelion

Thyme

Turmeric

Other Supplements for Cardiac Use:

(e.g. for reducing inflammation of tissues, reducing blood pressure or

“thinning” the blood)

CoQ10 (75-150mg a day, with lecithin)

Magnesium (maleate, citrate, aspartate)

Willow bark, Aspirin (75mg a day with meals)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Ginger

Fish oil

Capsaicin (from “hot” peppers)

MSM

Gotu kola

Ginkgo biloba

Bilberry

Primrose oil

Turmeric

AVOID

Refined carbohydrates

Highly sugared drinks (pop, sodas, etc)

Licorice (can increase blood pressure)

Hydrogenated or “partially hydrogenated” fats (in many cereals, margarines,

candies)

Transfatty acids (in many margarines, cakes, cookies etc)

Heated or fried fats and meats

Fatty meats

Lard and animal fat (many fast food chains use these fats in many products)

Coffee

Ephedra, ephedrine

Shark cartilage

NOTE

If you are considering the use of any of the above supplements, remember that

you should find out as much as you can by reading reputable web pages on each

of them, or consulting books such as:

Balch & Balch, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing”

The following metasearch engine should help you find detailed information on any

of the

above supplements:

http://www.metacrawler.com

If you suffer from any cardiac problems, it is essential that you seek

professional medical advice and ascertain if any supplements may interact

adversely with any medication which you may be taking. For example, if you

are on anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, other

supplements such as fish oil, garlic, aspirin, vitamin E (large doses) and

several others can reduce the clotting ability of your blood even further.

If you are on a cholesterol-lowering medication such as one of then statins,

then many of the above supplements can increase the potency of these drugs,

so, in consultation with a suitable medical expert, you should adjust your

dosage accordingly or gradually wean yourself off such drugs, according to

your particular situation. If doing this, it is important that you regularly

have your cholesterol and HDL/LDL ratios checked and that you work under the

supervision of your doctor.

——

Guggul:

Guggul is the name given to the yellowish resin produced by the stem of the

mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree found throughout India. It has been used

in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries in the treatment of arthritis, obesity,

and one of its prime uses was for “medoroga”. Medoroga is basically an

ancient diagnosis for what we know as atherosclerosis. It was effective for

this problem because of its ability to lower serum cholesterol and

triglycerides.

Guggul extract isolates contain safe plant steroid compounds known as

guggulsterones, which have been shown to lower lipid levels in your

blood. They actually lower serum triglycerides and cholesterol, as well as

LDL VLDL cholesterols (the “bad” ones) and as a bonus..raises HDL cholesterol

(the “good” guys). Guggulsterones also act as antioxidants in that they keep

LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, protecting you further from

atherosclerosis. Guggul has also decreased the “stickiness” of platelets,

which of course also lowers the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.Â

There was a study which actually found guggul extract similar and even

slightly better than clobfibrate for lowering cholesterol levels…..

Niacin:

For some time, some practitioners have been using high amounts of niacin

(Vitamin B3) (also called nicotinic acid) to lower cholesterol. The problem

with this is that at the doses needed, about 3 grams per day, divided dosing,

patients experience side effects of flushing, headache, stomach pains and

even chronic liver damage, diabetic responses, gastritis or stomach

inflammation, eye damage and even gout. The other common form of B3 -

niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) - does NOT help cholesterol levels.

An acceptable variation on niacin called inositol hexaniacinate has more

recently been prescribed by European doctors for cholesterol treatment

without the unwanted effects of niacin. It is used at the 500 to 1,000 mg

taken three times per day. It is newer and fewer studies have been done, so

if one takes it, make sure you have your cholesterol monitored to evaluate

its effectiveness and have liver enzymes, uric acid and glucose levels

checked just to be sure you are not one of the people prone to problems with

B3 therapy…..

[You may also try niacin in the form of "no flush" niacin hexaniacinate,

which most health shops sell - alone or in combination with small doses (less

than 150mg) of regular niacin (to minimise the uncomfortable flushing). It

is a good idea to take the niacin in combination with other members of the

vitamin B family - vit B complex, with at least 50mg of most Bs. MCS]

Other Factors:

Supplementing with Vitamin E (800 IU per day), Vitamin C (2-3 grams per day),

Octacosanol (from wheat germ..another good reason to use this food, as it is

also high in beta-sitosterol), Lecithin (2-3 grams per day), and garlic

supplements (600-900 mg per day) all have shown to be very helpful in

reducing cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

*** Here is some very brief information on other helpful supplements to

assist in managing different cardiovascular problems.

OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING SUPPLEMENTS

Since lecithin is a very effective emulsifying agent, which also contains

choline and inositol, some authorities also suggest taking at least 1200mg of

lecithin capsules or granules 3 times daily. By the way, for those who take

skim or reduced fat milk, blending or shaking a teaspoon or two of lecithin

granules into the milk makes it taste much creamier and more palatable - add

according to your personal taste.

Chinese red yeast extract

Chromium picolinate

L-carnitine (2-4gm daily on an empty stomach)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Bromelain and pectin enzymes (on an empty stomach)

Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) 1000mg daily (begin with 200-400mg daily)

Vitamin C (plus bioflavonoids)

Oats (fibre) and other brans

Olive oil (raw, virgin, cold pressed, kept in refrigerator)

Fish oil

Green tea

Hawthorne berry (also for heart arrhythmias and hypertension)

Grapefruit (note that this can accentuate the effects of some cardiac drugs)

Boswellia

Aloe Vera

Alfalfa

Dandelion

Thyme

Turmeric

Other Supplements for Cardiac Use:

(e.g. for reducing inflammation of tissues, reducing blood pressure or

“thinning” the blood)

CoQ10 (75-150mg a day, with lecithin)

Magnesium (maleate, citrate, aspartate)

Willow bark, Aspirin (75mg a day with meals)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Ginger

Fish oil

Capsaicin (from “hot” peppers)

MSM

Gotu kola

Ginkgo biloba

Bilberry

Primrose oil

Turmeric

AVOID

Refined carbohydrates

Highly sugared drinks (pop, sodas, etc)

Licorice (can increase blood pressure)

Hydrogenated or “partially hydrogenated” fats (in many cereals, margarines,

candies)

Transfatty acids (in many margarines, cakes, cookies etc)

Heated or fried fats and meats

Fatty meats

Lard and animal fat (many fast food chains use these fats in many products)

Coffee

Ephedra, ephedrine

Shark cartilage

NOTE

If you are considering the use of any of the above supplements, remember that

you should find out as much as you can by reading reputable web pages on each

of them, or consulting books such as:

Balch & Balch, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing”

If you suffer from any cardiac problems, it is essential that you seek

professional medical advice and ascertain if any supplements may interact

adversely with any medication which you may be taking. For example, if you

are on anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, other

supplements such as fish oil, garlic, aspirin, vitamin E (large doses) and

several others can reduce the clotting ability of your blood even further.

If you are on a cholesterol-lowering medication such as one of then statins,

then many of the above supplements can increase the potency of these drugs,

so, in consultation with a suitable medical expert, you should adjust your

dosage accordingly or gradually wean yourself off such drugs, according to

your particular situation. If doing this, it is important that you regularly

have your cholesterol and HDL/LDL ratios checked and that you work under the

Besides cancer and heart diseases, stroke is the third leading cause of death. Approximate 1/4 of all stroke victims die as a direct result of the stroke or it’s complications. Stroke is caused by uncontrolled diet that is high in saturated and trans fats resulting in cholesterol build up in the arteries and high blood pressure. In other words, if cholesterol building up in the arteries is blocking the circulation of blood in any part of the body causing oxygen not to be delivered to the brain, resulting in some cells in the brain to die off and are unable reproduce, then we have stroke. Other strokes happen when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures causing the cells in your brain to be deprived of oxygen in your blood, they die and never come back.I. Causes of StrokeThere are similar causes of stroke and heart diseases, but in stroke the result is more severe. Any delay of rescuing will result in death of the victim. Here are some causes of stroke:1. Unhealthy dietA diet high in saturated and trans fats causes bad cholesterol to build up in your blood vessels in the brain, blocking oxygen needed for the cells thus increasing the risk of stroke. Also unhealthy diet causes high blood pressure making your heart work harder to pump blood to your body in result of heart diseases. High blood pressure also causes the blood vessels in your brain to harden and thin, increasing the risk of stroke.2. SmokingSmoking not only has a devastating effect on the health of the smoker but also to anyone that inhales its toxic fumes. Cigarettes contain high levels of cadmium that causes the blood to clot activity of cells in result of blocking blood flow and damaging the blood vessels in the brain.3. Excessive drinkingModerate drinking is good for your heart, but excessive drinking can raise levels of some fats in your blood causing cholesterol to build up in the arteries and blood vessels in the brain resulting in increase of the risk of stroke.4. DiabetesPeople with diabetes tend to develop heart disease or have strokes at an earlier age than other people. Diabetes with unhealthy diet causes high blood glucose levels that damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to complications such as heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death among people with diabetes.5. Obesity - a body mass index of 30 or higherStudy shows that even after adjusting for other stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, cardiac diseases, moderate alcohol consumption, and physical activity; obesity is still associated with a greatest risk of stroke in men and women.6. Use of birth control pillsBirth control pills contain estrogen and one of two other hormones, lynestrenol or norethisterone that increase the risk of blood clotting, which can lead to ischemic stroke especially in woman who smoke and who are older than 35.There are many other causes of stroke such as heart diseases that we have discussed lengthily in the heart diseases articles.II. Symptoms of StrokeHere are some symptoms of strokes:1. Sudden trouble in standingSudden trouble in standing is an early symptom of stroke as a result of circulation of blood that carries oxygen to suddenly deplete caused by narrowing of arteries and high blood pressure.2. Dizziness and loss of balanceThe brain coordinates information from the eyes, the inner ear, and the body’s sense to maintain balance. If the cells of that part of the brain get damaged in result of depleted oxygen will cause dizziness and loss of balance.3. Sudden confusionA sudden onset of confusion means that something is potentially going wrong with the brain. Almost all conditions that affect the brain are life-threatening. It might be caused by a tumor or low levels of oxygen in the cells of the cerebral cortex in your brain that affect your ability to think with your usual speed or clarity. It might also be caused by lowered blood sugar, as is the case of diabetes.4. Having trouble speaking and understandingHaving trouble speaking and understanding occurs when the brain cells in the area of the broca, wernicke and angular ayrus in the left hemisphere area begin to die because they stop getting the oxygen and nutrients they need to function.6. Sudden severe headachesHeadache is a condition of pain in the head, sometimes neck or upper back pain may also be interpreted as a headache. It ranks amongst the most common local pain complaints and may be frequent for many people but sudden severe headaches may be caused by an early symptom of heart disease as we mentioned in previous articles, by rupturing a brain vessel or depletion of oxygen in some parts of the brain.7. Sudden trouble seeingThis may be an early indication of stroke when the oxygen in the blood supply to the part of the brain is suddenly interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into cells that control the vision area of the cerebral cortex in the brain.III. The Risk Factors1. AgeHuman aging is the biological process that is unavoidable but controllable. Starting at age 40, the cells in our body begin this process causing the deterioration of some functions of our body. Most people of this age group already have some form of cholesterol building up in their arteries and high blood pressure resulting in an increased risk of stroke.2. HeredityPeople with a family history of stroke have a greater chance of stroke than those do not have such a family history.3. RaceBecause of frequent high blood pressure in African Americans, they have a significantly higher risk of stroke than their Caucasian counterparts.4. High blood pressureHigh blood pressure causes hardening and thinning of arterial walls and makes our heart work harder to pump blood throughout our body resulting in heart diseases as well as increasing the risk of stroke.5. SmokingSmokers may be exposed to toxic cadmium, causing high blood pressure and heart diseases as well as contributing to a higher risk of stroke.6. Excessive alcohol consumptionDrinking one cup of wine for women and 2 cups of wine for men might help to increase the circulation of blood as well as providing more oxygen for cells. However, excessive drinking not only damages the normal function of liver but also raises high blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke.7. DiabetesDiabetes with unhealthy diet causes high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Diabetics have a greater risk of stroke, because high levels of glucose damage the arterial wall as well as clotting the arteries and blood vessels.8. GenderMales have a 20% greater risk of stroke than females.IV. Types of StrokesThere are 2 types of strokes:

1. Ischemic strokeThis is the most common type of stroke accounting for almost 80% of all strokes. The brain depends on its arteries to bring fresh blood from the heart and lungs. The blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain, and takes away carbon dioxide and cellular waste. If an artery is blocked then the brain cells may not receive enough oxygen. They then cannot make enough energy and will eventually stop working.There are 2 types of Ischemic strokea)Thrombotic stroke.If blood clots from the inside of the arteries of the brain, we have thrombic stroke.Study shows that this type of stroke is responsible for almost 50% of all strokes. The most common problem is narrowing off the arteries in the neck or head. Thrombotic stroke are also sometimes referred to as large-artery strokes. The process leading to thrombotic stroke is complex and occurs over time. Thrombotic stroke might be caused by the arterial walls slowly thickening and hardening as a result of arteries being injured. Such injures signal the immune system to release white blood cells to the site causing stroke. Thrombotic stroke also occurs when the inner wall of arteries were injured in result of less nitric oxide being produced, causing the hardening of the arteries. If the blood clot then blocks the already narrowed artery and shuts off oxygen to part of the brain, we have a thrombotic stroke.b) Embolic strokeIf blood clotted in other parts of the body’s arteries subsequently entering the brain, we have embolic stroke. In this case the clot was formed somewhere other than in the brain itself.The clot then travels the bloodstream until they become lodged and can not travel any further. This naturally restricts the flow of blood to the brain and results in embolic stroke. An embolic stroke occurs when a blood clot or other particle forms in a blood vessel away from your brain. It is usually caused by a dislodged blood clot that has traveled through the blood vessels until it becomes wedged in an artery. It is also caused by irregular beating in the heart’s two upper chambers. This abnormal heart rhythm can lead to poor blood flow and the formation of a blood clot.2. Hemorrhagic strokeHemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts inside the brain, causing an increase of the fluid pressure on the brain and harms the brain by pressing it against the skull. Hemorrhagic stroke is associated with high blood pressure, which stresses the arterial walls until they break.There are 2 types of hemorrhagic strokes:a) Intracerebral hemorrhage:Intracerebral hemorrhage is internal bleeding that can happen in any part of the brain. Blood may accumulate in the brain tissues itself, or in the space between the brain and the membranes covering it. Most commonly the problem arises in the small arterial inside the brain which have been diseased causing these tiny blood vessels to start to leak. Since the actual source of the bleeding is often small, it can take time for the blood to build up resulting in symptoms of an intracerebral hemorrhage and often increases over minutes or hours. People may not notice the problems associated with bleeding into the brain and ischemic strokes.b) Subarachnoid hemorrhageHemorrhagic strokes that cause bleeding into the fluid filled spaces located deep in the brain are called subarachnoid hemorrhage. Subarachnoid hemorrhage may occur at any age but is most common from age 40 to 65. It is caused by the presence of blood within the subarachnoid space from some pathological processes a result of ruptured aneurysms and bleeding may stop spontaneously. Other causes include vascular malformation, tumors and infection.The most effective treatment is to proceed with microsurgical clipping of the lesion. This stroke causes paralysis of all limbs, unconsciousness and bleeding into the cerebellum produceing typical signs of in coordination with headache and stiffness of the neck.Click here for more informationV. Prevention and TreatmentA. With Foods1. Cold water fishCold water fish such as salmon and tuna contains high amounts of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that can help to reduce the cholesterol clotting up in the arteries and blood vessels in the brain in result of lowering blood pressure and the risk of stroke.2. AlmondsAlmonds contain high amounts of vitamin E and other minerals that can help to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol and maintain healthy blood flow in the body.3. BlueberriesBlueberries contain the highest antioxidant capacity because of their large anthocyanin concentration that helps to prevent heart disease and stroke by reducing the build up of bad cholesterol LDL.4. ApplesApples are loaded with brain-protecting quercetin. It also contains high amounts of antioxidants and chemicals that help to protect cells throughout the body, particularly the brain and the heart.5. ApricotsPhytochemicals in apricots can help to protect the heart and eye as well prevent stroke. The beta carotene as we mentioned in a previous article can help to lower the level of bad cholesterol in the arteries, thus reducing the risk of heart diseases and stroke.6. Carrot(See Apricots)7. Kiwi FruitKiwi fruit contains high amounts of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants that are good for the heart and immune system as well as preventing stroke.8. Rice branRice bran contains high amounts of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and nutritional dietary fiber that help to lower levels of cholesterol in the arteries and reduce the risk of stroke and heart diseases.9. Oat branOat bran is high in beta glucans that has proven effective in lowering the LDL as well as reducing the risk of stokeB. With Nutritional Supplements1. B-complexThree B-vitamins: folate, B-6, and B-12 can lower homocysteine, an amino acid that is found naturally in the body and study shows that the higher the level of homocysteine in the blood, the higher the risk of stroke.2. Beta-caroteneBeta-carotene is an antioxidant that may reduce oxidative stress to brain cells. Such stress occurs when highly volatile forms of oxygen damage cell structure. Study shows that beta- carotene helps to reduce the risk against cerebral infraction and stroke.3. Vitamin EVitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to reduce arterial clotting.4. SeleniumSelenium is a powerful agent that helps to keep tissues and arteries elastic. It also helps to reduce the stickiness of the blood and decreases the risk of clotting, in turn lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke. Selenium increases the ratio of HDL (good) cholesterol to LDL (bad) cholesterol.5. PycnogenolPycnogenol helps to keep collagen elastic and soften the blood platelets, making blood flow more efficiently.6. Co enzyme Q-10Co enzyme is a strong antioxidant that not only protects low density lipoprotein LDL against oxidants, but also helps for getting oxygen to the cells.7. LecithinLecithin is a fat-like substance called a phospholipid that helps to remove bad cholesterol and other lipids from the body. It also protects the arteries and organs from the build up of fatty tissue that can lead to stroke or heart attack.8. MelatoninMelatonin is a neurohormone produced in our body by the pineal gland. It is a powerful antioxidant that easily penetrates the blood-brain barrier and is used to treat thrombotic stroke.9. Vitamin CVitamin C helps to strengthen the arterial wall, lowering the risk of heart diseases and stroke.C. With Herbs1.Ginkgo bilobaThe herb is extracted from the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree and was first used medicinally in China more than 4,000 years ago. Ginkgo biloba has the ability to increase the oxygen content to the brain and other bodily tissues, improving circulation of blood and improving cerebral tolerance to hypoxia. Study shows that taking Ginkgo and other blood thinner medications together may increase the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking ginkgo biloba.2. HawthornHawthorn contains cardiotonic amines, polyphenols, and is a source of Vitamins C, B, and many other nutrients that help in relaxing and dilating arteries, increasing the flow of blood and oxygen to and from the heart and maintaining healthy blood pressure resulting in lowered risk of stroke.3. GarlicGarlic contains high amounts of antioxidants and elements that help to improve blood circulation. It is dangerous to take garlic extract together with blood thinner medications as we mentioned in a previous article.4. CayenneCayenne contains an active ingredient called capsaicin that has the abilities to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as preventing heart diseases and stroke.5. BlueberriesBlueberries are one of the richest food sources of natural antioxidants readily available, having more than twice the levels of other berries that helps to prevent heart disease, stroke and internal bleeding.6. PigweedPigweed is an excellent plant-source of calcium. It helps lower one-third of the risk of succumbing to heart attack. Personally, I believe these results also apply to ischemic strokes, because they are biologically so similar to heart attack.7. Willow barkWillow bark has been shown in several studies to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke by about 18 percent. Study shows that willow bark has the aspirin’s ability to prevent heart attacks, and also shows a slight increase in risk of hemorrhagic stroke from taking willow bark daily but the increase was small and not statistically significant.8. GingerThis is another herb proven to have anti-clotting abilities and has the same function as garlic.D. With Chinese Acupuncture and Herbs1. AcupunctureAcupuncture is the most popular treatment modality for stroke patients in China, used effectively on 85% of the stroke patients there. The recently acceptance of acupuncture by western medical practitioners allows one more effective method in curing diseases especially stroke. Study shows that acupuncture helps to facilitate nerve regeneration, decrease blood viscosity, as well as helping surviving nerve cells find new pathways, effectively bypassing damaged parts of the brain resulting in decreased risk of stroke.2. Ginkgo biloba (bai guo ye).Ginkgo biloba improves mental functioning as well as preventing blood cells from forming blood clots in the brain. Study shows that ginkgo improves blood circulation and lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations that help to lower the risk of stroke.3. GastrodiaGastrodia was listed in the ancient Shennong Bencao Jing (ca. 100 A.D.) and was later classified by Tao Hong as a superior herb, meaning that it could be taken for a long time to protect health and prolong life, as well as for treating illnesses. Gastrodia is used by Chinese herbalist in treating stroke and chronic weaknesses of Qi that eventually blocks the flow of blood to the brain.4. Cinnamon barkTrue Cinnamon is one form of the common spice. As we discussed before, cinnamon helps to lower blood sugar by mimicking insulin, activating insulin receptors and working with insulin in the cells to reduce blood sugar by up to 20%. Also cinnamon has some antioxidant benefits that helps to find new pathways for surviving nerve cells after stroke.5. AngelicaAngelica can help to warm up the chest-yang to remove obstruction of blood flow in the heart vessels as well as brain vessels.6. Dragon’s BloodDragon’s Blood is used for increased power, purification, protection, consecration, and the development of strong ritual energy. It also helps to relieve pain in the heart due to blood stagnation and stimulate blood circulation to the brain resulting in decreased risk of stroke.There are many other Chinese herbs that can help to prevent and treat stroke such as ginger root, mantis egg case, and tortoise plastron. Please consult with your doctor before taking any Chinese herb because some of these herbs may have side effects.E. With Common Sense Approaches1. A healthy DietUncontrolled diet that is high in saturated fat and trans fat results in cholesterol building up in the arteries and blood vessels obstructing the flow of blood and damaging brain cells because of lack of oxygen causing stroke. If we can consume less of processed foods, fatty animal meats and avoid artificial chemicals and consume more healthy vegetables and fruits, we can reduce the risk of stroke.2. Put on a happy faceStudy shows that people with depression have an increased risk of stroke. Experts also found that people with elevated levels of depression will increase the risk of stroke by 73%.3. ExerciseRegular moderate exercise will help to improve circulation of blood flow and lessen the risk of stroke that is caused by clogged blood vessels by 30% because regular walking helps to lower high blood pressure and increase levels of HDL.4. Quit SmokingCigarettes contain toxic chemicals cadmium together with heavy metals that cause blood clotting in the arteries resulting in increased high blood pressure and risk of heart diseases as well as stroke.5. Reduce intake of alcoholExcessive drinking increases high blood pressure, thus increasing the likelihood of stroke.I hope this information will help. If you need more information of the above subject, please visit my home page at:Kyle J. Nortonhttp://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com/http://strokeorbrianattacks.blogspot.com/All rights reserved. Any reproducing of this article must have all the links intact

What you eat is one of the biggest determinants of your coronary heart disease risk. A diet high in the eight foods below will go a long way to maintaining a healthy heart.
1) Garlic
Garlic contains powerful chemicals that have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. It has been estimated that a clove of garlic a day is needed to obtain these health benefits. If the thought of eating a clove of garlic a day is too much for you, odorless garlic capsules can be purchased from most pharmacies and supermarkets.
2) Oats (Oat-meal and Oat-bran)
Oats are high in soluble fiber which have been shown in many studies to reduce your levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Research has shown that the higher your ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to LDL, the lower your risk of heart disease is. One cup of oatmeal a day provides enough dietary fiber to reduce your LDL cholesterol levels significantly.
3) Alcohol
Moderate consumption of Alcohol (up to two glasses a day) has been shown in most studies to reduce heart disease risk by between 20 percent and 40 percent compared to non-drinkers. Moderate Alcohol consumption has been associated with an increased ratio of HDL to LDL, thinner blood (leading to reduced blood clotting), reduced blood insulin levels and a reduction in arterial plaque build up. Heavy alcohol consumption however raises blood pressure and is associated with a greater risk of heart disease.
4) Oily Fish
Fish such as tuna, salmon, and sardines contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which reduce heart disease risk by reducing blood pressure and increasing blood vessel elasticity. Medical experts recommend a minimum of 2 servings of fish a week to obtain the full benefit of omega-3, alternatively fish oil capsules can be taken.
5) Nuts such as Almonds, Walnuts, and Cashew Nuts
Nuts are rich in polyunsaturated fats and contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. A handful of nuts a day has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 20 percent.
6) Tomatoes and Tomato Products
Tomatoes, especially cooked tomatoes have high levels of Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. In a study of 40,000 women at the Harvard school of Public Health, women who consumed seven or more servings of tomato-based foods were 30 percent less likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to those who consumed less than 1.5 servings. Women who ate more than ten servings a week were up to a massive 65 percent less likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
7) Green Tea
A Japanese study of over 400,000 individuals aged between 40 and 79 found that those people who consumed five or more cups of green tea a day were 26 percent less likely to die from heart disease. Researchers also found that the effect was stronger for women than men. Green tea is high in polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants that are also found in most berry fruit, apples, celery, broccoli and parsley. Spinach
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamins A, C, and K and is also an excellent source of Folate. Folate helps the heart by reducing homo-cysteine levels in the blood. High homo-cysteine levels are associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

Cholesterol, a yellowish fatty substance, is one of the essential ingredients of the body. Although

it is essential to life, it has a bad reputation, being a major villain in heart disease. Every person

with a high blood cholesterol is regarded as a potential candidate for heart attack, a stroke or

high blood pressure.

Cholesterol is a building block of the outer membrane of cells. It is the principal ingredient in the

digestive juice bile, in the fatty sheaths that insulate nerves and in sex hormones, namely,

estrogen and androgen. It performs several functions such as transportation of fat, providing

defense mechanism, protecting red blood cells and muscular membrane of the body.

Most of the cholesterol found in the body is produced in the liver. However, about 20 to 30

percent generally comes from the foods we eat. Some cholesterol is also secreted into the

intestinal tract in bile and becomes mixed with the dietary cholesterol. The percentage of

ingested cholesterol absorbed seemed to average 40 to 50 percent of the intake. The body

excretes extra cholesterol from the system through bowels and kidneys.

The amount of cholesterol is measured in milligrams per 100 millimeters of blood. Normal level

of cholesterol varies between 150- 250 mg. per 100 ml. Persons with atherosclerosis have

uniformly high blood cholesterol usually above 250 mg. per 100 ml.

In blood, cholesterol is bound to certain proteins - lipoproteins which have an affinity for blood

fats, known as lipids. There are two main types of lipoproteins : a low density one (LDL) and a

high density one (HDL). The low density lipoprotein is the one which is considered harmful and

is associated with cholesterol deposits in blood vessels. The higher the ratio of LDL to the total

cholesterol, the greater the risk of arterial damage and heart disease. The HDL on the other

hand plays a salutary role by helping remove cholesterol from circulation and thereby reduce the

risk of heart disease.

Cholesterol has been the subject of extensive study by researchers since 1769, when French

chemist, Polutier de La Salle purified the soapy-looking yellowish substance. The results of the

most comprehensive research study, commissioned by the National Heart and Lung Institute of

the U.S.A. were announced about four years ago. The 10-year study, considered most elaborate

and most expensive research project in medical history, indicates that heart disease is directly

linked to the level of cholesterol in the blood and that lowering cholesterol significantly reduces

the incidence of heart attacks. It has been estimated that for every one per cent reduction in

cholesterol, there is a decrease in the risk of heart attack by two per cent.

Causes

Hyperchjolsterolaemia or increase in cholestrol is mainly a digestive problem caused by rich

foods such as fried foods, excessive consumption of milk and its products like ghee,butter and

cream,white flour, sugar, cakes, pastries, biscuits, cheese, ice cream as well as non-vegetarian

foods like meat, fish and eggs. Other causes of increase in cholesterol are irregularity in habits,

smoking and drinking alcohol.

Stress has been found to be a major cause of increased level of cholesterol. Adrenaline and

cortison are both released in the body under stress. This, in turn, produces a fat metabolising

reaction. Adrenal glands of executive type aggressive persons produce more adrenaline than

the easy going men. Consequently they suffer six to eight times more heart attacks than the

relaxed men.

The Cure

To reduce the risk of heart disease, it is essential to lower the level of LDL and increase the level

of HDL. This can be achieved by improving the diet and changing the life style. Diet is the most

important factor. As a first step, foods rich in cholesterol and saturated fats, which lead to

increase in LDL level, should be reduced to the minimum. Cholesterol -rich foods are eggs,

organ meats and most cheese, butter, bacon, beef, whole milk, virtually all foods of animal origin

as well as two vegetable oils, namely coconut and palm, are high in saturated fats and these

should be replaced by polyunsaturated fats such as corn, safflower, sobayeans and sesame oils

which tend to lower the level of LDL. There are monosaturated fats such as olive and peanut oils

which have more or less neutral effect on the LDL level.

The American Heart Association recommends that men should restrict themselves to 300 mg. of

cholesterol a day and women to 275 mg. It also prescribes that fat should not make up more

than 30 per cent of the diet and not more than one third of this should be saturated. The

Association, however, urges a somewhat strict regimen for those who already have elevated

levels of cholesterol.

The amount of fibre in the diet also influences the cholesterol levels and LDL cholesterol can be

lowered by taking diets rich in fibres. The most significant sources of dietary fibre are

unprocessed wheat bran, whole cereals such as wheat , rice, barley, rye; legumes such as

potato, carrot, beet and turnips; fruits like mango and guava and green vegetables such as

cabbage, lady’s finger, lettuce and celery. Oat bran is especially beneficial in lowering LDL

cholesterol.

Lecithin, also a fatty food substance and the most abundant of the phospholipids, is highly

beneficial in case of increase in cholesterol level. It has the ability to break up cholesterol into

small particles which can be easily handled by the system. With sufficient intake of lecithin,

cholesterol cannot build up against the walls of the arteries and veins. It also increases the

production of bile acids made from cholesterol, thereby reducing its amount in the blood. Egg

yolk, vegetable oils, whole grain cereals, soyabeans and unpasteurised milk are rich sources of

lecithin. The cells of the body are also capable of synthesizing it as needed, if several of the B

vitamins are present.

Diets high in vitamin B6, cholin and inositol supplied by wheat germ, yeast, or B vitamins

extracted from bran have been particularly effective in reducing blood cholesterol. Sometimes

vitamin E elevates blood lecithin and reduces cholesterol presumably by preventing the essential

fatty acids from being destroyed by oxygen.

Persons with high blood cholesterol level should drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water every

day as regular drinking of water stimulates the excretory activity of the skin and kidneys. This in

turn facilitates elimination of excessive cholesterol from the system. Regularly drinking of

coriander (dhania) water also helps lower blood cholesterol as it is a good diuretic and

stimulates the kidneys. It is prepared by boiling dry seeds of coriander and straining the

decoction after cooling.

Regular exercise also plays an important role in lowering LDL cholesterol and in raising the level

of protective HDL. It also promotes circulation and helps maintain the blood flow to every part of

the body. Jogging or brisk walking, swimming, bicycling and playing badminton are excellent

forms of exercise.

Yogasnas are highly beneficial as they help increase perspiratory activity and stimulate

sebaceous glands to effectively secrete accumulated or excess cholesterol from the muscular

tissue. Asanas like ardhamatsyaendrasana, shalabhasana, padmasanaand vajrasana are useful

in lowering blood cholesterol by increasing systemic activity.

Hydrotherapy can be successfully employed in reducing excess cholesterol. Cold hip baths for

10 minutes taken twice every day have proved beneficial. Steam baths are also helpful except in

patients suffering from hypertension and other circulatory disorders. Mud packs, applied over the

abdomen improve digestion and assimilation. They improve the functioning of the liver and other

digestive organs and activate kidneys and the intestines to promote better excretion.

People from the Indian subcontinent (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) have some of the world’s highest rates of diabetes and heart disease. This is true even when they have low levels of traditional risk factors such as cholesterol. Even non-smoking Indian vegetarians under the age of 40 who exercise regularly may be at high risk.

For the first time, the authors of this groundbreaking, deeply researched book tell you why. They also tell you how you and your family - working with your physician - can prevent, manage and even reverse this dangerous but treatable killer.

Check out www.cadiresearch.com for a free download of Chapter One of the book!

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