Methylation so far just remember we do not know everything yet......

As you can see on the diagram the MTHFR enzyme determines how fast supplemental & dietary folate is turned into 5-MTHF.  This is  the only form of folate that reduces homocysteine & is necessary for the production of our #1 methyl donor, SAMe.

If you look at the junction with the second circle you can see that once MTHFR produces 5-MTHF, methyl-folate then donates or gives its methyl group (CH3) to cobalamin to make the active form of B12, methyl-cobalamin .  The MTR enzyme plays a critical role in transferring the methyl group from 5-MTHF to cobalamin.

In the second circle the methyl-cobalamin donates its methyl group to homocysteine to make methionine (this is important because we want to prevent the buildup of homocysteine).  The MTRR enzyme recycles B12 to make sure it stays active & viable, which means it is able to accept the methyl group from 5-MTHF .

Various mutations in the 3 above mentioned enzymes (MTHFR, MTR & MTRR) has been observed to reduce folate activity & thus increase homocysteine levels.
 
5-MTHF has important advantages over synthetic folic acid:

• it is well absorbed even when gastrointestinal pH is altered
• its bioavailability is not affected by metabolic defects.
• Using 5-MTHF instead of folic acid reduces the potential for masking haematological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency 

The 2 exciting things are;

1. We can test MTHFR in a blood test and this can indicate to some extent what form of folate is the best to start with.  If MTHFR works fine then folic acid is good for you.  If the enzyme is not functioning due to a genetic adnormality the whole cycle comes to a standstill right up at the beginning.  This will slow down cellular growth and repair in the body and effect some neurotransmitters.
2. 5-MTHF is now available as a supplement in Australia

How do I know if I have a leaky gut?

One of the functions of the cells that line the intestinal wall is to regulate what gets absorbed through the walls into the blood steam. Things like some foods, infections, toxins and stress can effect the tight junctions between the cells to cause them to break apart.  This means that small particles can now leak from the digestive lumen into the blood stream.  In this case it's the job of the immune system to attack and mop us these particles.
One of my clients asked me last week.  How do I know if I have a leaky gut?
Unfortunately there is no test but there are lots of signs. Here are some of them;

• Digestive signs include malnutrition, flatulence, burping, bloating, stomach ache, constipation and diarrhea.
• Autoimmune diseases
• Chronic fatigue symptoms
• Thrush and signs of candida over growth
• Hormonal imbalances
• High Cholesterol readings
• Allergies
• Mental Health issues. Anxiety, Depression, Behavioural changes, ADHD, forgetfulness sometimes described as a fog.
• Acne, rosacea, eczema

How do I heal it?
In my clinic we have a program called Clean Within.  This is a digestive healing program.
As part of the program we look at;

• Nutritional changes.  Recent research has indicated as fast as one week can show significant healing to the digestive walls and microbiome.
• Healing and sealing the digestive walls using supplements that contain zinc and glutamine 
• Adding digestive enzymes
• Balancing your microbiome
• Removing anything that shouldn't be there.
• 
  

PH testing available Now

PH testing available Now

The pH test is simple and quick, all it takes is your saliva and then measure the reading.

Some of the benefits of being high alkaline include….

• hydrating and detoxifying the body
• increased vitality
• weight loss
• energy production and tissue oxygenation
• boosts the immune system
• maintain or regain optimum health
• trace elements are essential for physical and mental development and health

A balanced pH is around 7.35pH

Less than 6.5 pH is considered acidic and I suggest you buy a 6 pack of Alkalizor, drink one per day then come back and retest.

Dinachariya or your Ideal Daily Routine

Dinachariya is an ayurvedic model explaining how to lead a healthy life. It is based on the idea to eliminate toxins on a daily basis, expanding your mind and finding connection to others.  In my recent trip to India we learnt all about it and I'm going to attempt to keep it going in Australia.  The principles are as follows;

Time to wake up
Brahma Muhutha is defined as the special time, which is auspicious for waking up in the morning. According to ayurveda, the time between 3 A.M. to 6 A.M. Ayurveda states down various benefits of waking up early in the morning. Moreover, it has been proven that people who wake early in the morning turn out to be more successful than others.

Natural urges
Follow your urges and do not suppress them.  It you have a blockage in this area it may be because your vatta is not flowing properly and you may experience stomach pain and gastric bloating.

Brushing
Should be done with astringent, bitter and pungent taste twice daily.  In India they use tooth powder and the twigs of the Neem tree. My best tip is to not use something full of chemicals that says "do not swallow" on the side.  Try Divine Tooth mousse.

Water splashing for eyes
This reduces the tension in the eyes and improves vision.  Splash cold water in summer and warm water in winter.

Pranama
Pranama is a form of "respectful salutation".  It includes worship, prayer, meditation & yoga.  I like to stick to the easy to do concept, be grateful for something every day, meditate for 10 minutes and do at least 3 yoga poses.  Some days I excel past this but this is my easy to do minimum.

Anjana/ Kajal
This is the application of medicine or kohl to the eye. Eyes are the seats of fire and it helps to clean the impurities from the eye. The ayurvedic doctor says eyes become more beautiful and it helps to see even minute things.  I love the concept of cosmetics as medicine, where did we go wrong?

Nasya
Nasya is the practice of lubricating your nasal passages with a special herbalized oil referred to as Nasya oil. It cleans the sinus and takes out toxins.

Mouth wash or oil pulling
This is where you use an oil to swish around your mouth and spit out.  Helps remove toxins and bacteria from the oral cavity.  I personally like coconut oil.

Abhyangam/ Body massage
Self abhyangam highly recommended every day. Apply head, ears, feet and body. Helps with sleep

Vyayama/ Exercise
Very important for daily routine to keep ourselves fit. It lightens our body and makes us strong. When doing exercise you should only use 1/2 your energy and do a oil massage after.

Bathing
Bathing increases the appetite and cleans the body. Use only hot water below the head which helps for getting strength

Bhojana priciples

Don't take food in a hurry
Prayer before food
Take food in a pleasant mood
Better to sit on the floor

Sadvrtta/ Right conduct
Spend time with good friends
Read good stories
Discuss things related to Dharma
Only desire for knowledge

Sleep
Prayer before sleep
Sleep in a pleasant mood
Keep head towards the east

How a person should be;
Calm and composed
Charitable
Humble
Affectionate to guests
Perform religious rites
Start the conversation if you meet someone

Cardiac Heath Questions TEST YOURSELF

1. People who have angina or who already had a heart attack are at increased risk of having another heart attack?  True/ False
2. Many people, including people with CHD, call an ambulance as soon as they feel one of the warning signs of a heart attack.  True/False
3. Learning and acting upon the warning signs should significantly reduce the number of deaths and disability associated with heart attack in people with CHD.  True/False
4. Every person who has a heart attack will experience chest pain.   True/ False
5. At Cranes Pharmacy we are having a cardiovascular debate on Wednesday October 28th at 6.30pm   True/False

Answers 1. True 2. False 3. True  4. False  5. True

Book Now to find out more about cardiovascular health

My 2 Must Haves for a Trip to India

In a couple weeks I'm joining the Adore Yoga Ayurvedic Tour to South India, it's very exciting and I'm already packing my bag.  I remember from last time it's quite hot, so the temptation is to wear cool dresses and shorts but in India, its a modest country and you are expected to cover your shoulders and legs.  So look into your wardrobe and find those loose fitting cotton long shirts and skirts.

I have 2 must haves when I travel the first is Travel Bug. My digestive system is not used foods from another country so I like to help it along.  Ethical Nutrients Travel Bug may, reduce the risk of diarrhoea when travelling or relieve diarrhoea. So I just take one a day as insurance as I travel.

My second must have is 1Above.  This is a flight drink so that I can get off the flight ready to go and even more importantly arrive home refreshed and without jetlag.  I often see people who get off the plane looking like they need another holiday just to cope with the return flight, I don't want to be that person.

Here's a quick checklist just to make sure you haven't left anything out:

• Hand Sanitiser  Devine is my favourite
  
• Deodorant
• Antiseptic/ Dressings / First aide kit
• Contact lens products
• Ear plugs
• Eye drops
• Sanitary products
• Insect repellant
• Sunscreen
• Power plug adaptors
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Travel pillows
• Analgesic tablets
• Anti-histamines
• Oral rehydration
• Cold & Flu tablets
• Treatment for sunburn
• Passport
• Visa
• Money belt
• Travel insurance
• Swimming Costume

Let me know at the pharmacy if you'd like any of these things and I'll get them ready for you.

Cranes Pharmacy 9969 4700

Does Cholestrol Cause Heart Disease?

The fundamental principle upon which much of pharmaceutical medicine and mainstream dietary advice is based, that high LDL cholesterol causes heart disease, has taken a beating in recent years. While the research literature has been questioning the hypothesis for years, current practice has not yet caught up, and the measurement and pharmaceutical lowering of cholesterol are the primary activities conducted in the name of management of cardiovascular risk in doctor’s offices around the country.

Public awareness of the flaws in the lipid hypothesis have been increasing, due to various popular media and personalities examining the issue in television, internet and print media. Accompanying this is a popular trend for dietary change which flies in the face of the heavily grain-weighted dietary pyramid, instead embracing saturated fat-containing, ‘paleolithic’-friendly foods. 

However, despite the impassioned opinions of many on the subject, the issue as to whether LDL is a concern in CVD is more complex than a simple yes or no. Would you like to know more??
Come to our Great Cardiovascular Debate on October 28th 630pm

Book Now  http://www.rosemarymanners.com.au/pages/The-Great-Cardiovascular-Debate.html