A new something all the time

Tony Nathanson said:

The Vilification of Cholesterol (for Profit?) - PMC

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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A very good video and it is worth watching for anyone who is interested in cardiovascular health. I am not an authority but I have done a good deal of study on the matter. I agree with 85% of what Dr. Hyman relates in his video. I have said before that total cholesterol has no real relevance. I don't agree that starch as a whole is a big issue. Most of the Orient and many other parts of the world eat rice with every meal and few of those people have any heart issues. Japan had no heart disease before being introduced to the American diet after WWII. They did, however, have a very high rate of stomach and some other cancers. Alaska Natives (when on a traditional diet) eat a LOT of fat, including rancid seal oil--an oxidized partially saturated fat--and have no heart disease. The Natives also have high cancer rates. Alaska Natives on a traditional diet often have HDL levels exceeding 150 mg/dL.

Inflammation is the key, and sugar along with B vitamin deficiencies are, in my opinion the real issue. Markers, such as hs-CRP and homocysteine are the best way to determine your inflammation levels. The apolipoprotein A1 and B are good ways to look at your status.
 
I have had 4-5 primary doctors in the past 10 or so years and every one of them wanted to put me on statins.
One in particular told me “ I am a doctor and a scientist so when I tell you that you need the Covid-19 inoculation and start on a statin regimen, that’s what you have to do”.
No, said I. I guess he hadn’t heard the word NO from a patient before because it totally ticked him off.

Anyway, about a month ago I started a new exercise in self medication and preservation by adding 3 grams of beet root powder and 3 grams of Ceylon cinnamon to my daily “go” drink.
They each have their own attributes but between them they work as an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant and also helps lower cholesterol levels and manages blood pressure.
To me, there’s no downside unless one considers that the beet root is VERY earthy tasting but the cinnamon and the light sweetener I use in my drink seem to help that part out immensely. Like a lot of things, ya just gotta grow into it.
I haven’t taken any blood tests yet but I have already noticed that my mood is better, my energy levels are better, I’m more patient / relaxed and I tend to find myself smiling and even short bursts of singing a lot more. If those are markers of senility then I’ll stick with it because I like it.
Note: I have always talked to myself so that part can’t be included as an improvement.

Just as a side:
I wrote about my left foot problem and the sciatic nerve problem in my right leg before and how the podiatrist and the primary doctor pretty much just foo-foo’d everything off.
To review: The podiatrist told me that I needed a $300 out of pocket foot cast made so some guy could make better orthodontics for me and the other doctor told me to find a better cushion to sit on for the sciatic thing.

The short and long of it all, along with some forced exercise, I started taking 300mg’s of Alpha Lipoic Acid (600 is recommended) in the mornings which is best known for helping to repair and replace the sheathing around the nerves.
Notably, those painful issues have been going on for nearly a year but within 2 weeks of taking the Lipoic Acid, I started noticing a marked improvement and a month or so after that I hardly feel any problems in those areas any longer.
 
Hedi Mitchell said:
@Bobby Cole : I have always talked to myself so that part can’t be included as an improvement.

I have always talked out loud to myself. drives hubby nuts... he even asked. why do you do that? I thought I was the only one listening- :D
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I feel as though that the conversations I have with myself are something akin to self education and a higher understanding of myself ergo a definite asset.
Although, on the other hand, I have found it quite daunting when I accidentally catch myself arguing with that strange fellow in the bathroom mirror.
He can be downright insensitive at times and it’s just an opinion mind you, but I think I look younger than he does.
 
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Hedi Mitchell said:
@Bobby Cole : I have always talked to myself so that part can’t be included as an improvement.

I have always talked out loud to myself. drives hubby nuts... he even asked. why do you do that? I thought I was the only one listening- :D
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@Hedi Mitchell I always said I talked to myself because I could not find any one else to could discuss things on my level.;)
 
Bobby Cole said:
I have had 4-5 primary doctors in the past 10 or so years and every one of them wanted to put me on statins.
One in particular told me “ I am a doctor and a scientist so when I tell you that you need the Covid-19 inoculation and start on a statin regimen, that’s what you have to do”.
No, said I. I guess he hadn’t heard the word NO from a patient before because it totally ticked him off.

Anyway, about a month ago I started a new exercise in self medication and preservation by adding 3 grams of beet root powder and 3 grams of Ceylon cinnamon to my daily “go” drink.
They each have their own attributes but between them they work as an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant and also helps lower cholesterol levels and manages blood pressure.
To me, there’s no downside unless one considers that the beet root is VERY earthy tasting but the cinnamon and the light sweetener I use in my drink seem to help that part out immensely. Like a lot of things, ya just gotta grow into it.
I haven’t taken any blood tests yet but I have already noticed that my mood is better, my energy levels are better, I’m more patient / relaxed and I tend to find myself smiling and even short bursts of singing a lot more. If those are markers of senility then I’ll stick with it because I like it.
Note: I have always talked to myself so that part can’t be included as an improvement.

Just as a side:
I wrote about my left foot problem and the sciatic nerve problem in my right leg before and how the podiatrist and the primary doctor pretty much just foo-foo’d everything off.
To review: The podiatrist told me that I needed a $300 out of pocket foot cast made so some guy could make better orthodontics for me and the other doctor told me to find a better cushion to sit on for the sciatic thing.

The short and long of it all, along with some forced exercise, I started taking 300mg’s of Alpha Lipoic Acid (600 is recommended) in the mornings which is best known for helping to repair and replace the sheathing around the nerves.
Notably, those painful issues have been going on for nearly a year but within 2 weeks of taking the Lipoic Acid, I started noticing a marked improvement and a month or so after that I hardly feel any problems in those areas any longer.
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The beet root increases nitric oxide in your blood. You might add some cacao (not cocoa) to your drink. That helps as well.
Problem is all the supplements can get pricey and are not covered by insurance but also don't have drug side effects.
 
Mary Stetler said:
The beet root increases nitric oxide in your blood. You might add some cacao (not cocoa) to your drink. That helps as well.
Problem is all the supplements can get pricey and are not covered by insurance but also don't have drug side effects.
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Yups about the beet root and yup again about the cacao. @Yvonne Smith keeps us well stocked with it.

About the beet root: As if the nitrates being converted to nitric oxide wasn’t enough, beet root consumption produces sooooo much more.
Note 1. Whenever practical, I order my supplements in powder/bulk form. It’s more efficient and I can regulate the amount depending on the system of delivery I use. e.g. shake, go drink, sublingual, etc.
Note 2. I was going to write all of the assets that consuming beet root has but Dr. Google seems to cover it quite well hence the copy / paste thing.

Heart Health and Blood Pressure: Beetroot is high in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, helping to relax and widen blood vessels. This can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Folate in beets also supports healthy blood vessel function and cardiovascular health WebMDWebMD+2.
Athletic Performance: The nitrates in beetroot improve blood flow to muscles, enhancing oxygen delivery and stamina. Drinking beet juice before exercise has been shown to increase endurance and improve cardiorespiratory performance WebMDWebMD+2.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Beetroot contains betalains, natural pigments with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect cells from damage, reduce chronic inflammation, and may lower the risk of certain cancers WebMDWebMD+2.
Digestive Health: Beets are rich in fiber, which promotes healthy gut bacteria, improves digestion, and helps prevent constipation. A fiber-rich diet also supports blood sugar regulation and weight management WebMDWebMD+2.
Brain and Cognitive Function: Improved blood flow from dietary nitrates may enhance brain function and reduce cognitive decline, supporting overall mental performance myhealthopedia.commyhealthopedia.com.
Skin and Immune Support: Beetroot’s antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and folate contribute to healthy skin, reduce signs of aging, and strengthen the immune system WebMDWebMD+1.
Other Benefits: Beets support liver detoxification, bone health (due to manganese and magnesium), and healthy pregnancy through folate content. They are low in calories but nutrient-dense, making them ideal for weight management HealthlineHealthline+1.
 
Have only been taking half of a 20 mg of Lipitor. If I ever get another blood test hope it helps some.
Let's see, been doctoring I think athlete feet small area but so far only mildly fading away. Just tired of any and all health issues . Even with all that is wrong, still better off than most.Makes me mad at myself even discussing my petty health issues.
Trying to make it 80, after that - I could care less..well at least today I feel that way. :cool:
 
. Has anyone ever counted all there aliments and medical issues? Remember when you just went to a doctor for almost everything? We had the same GP for 30 years or more until moving SW KS. Had 6 since 1/2023👎
Now am considering finding a new one. Still have not heard back from the Gp from denying me a referral.
 
Hedi Mitchell said:
. Has anyone ever counted all there aliments and medical issues? Remember when you just went to a doctor for almost everything? We had the same GP for 30 years or more until moving SW KS. Had 6 since 1/2023👎
Now am considering finding a new one. Still have not heard back from the Gp from denying me a referral.
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We have mostly just gone in for the lab work for the last few years. We have not needed a doctor for much else, except for me seeing my cardiologist for my heart failure, and I usually see him only once a year, since everything is pretty much stable (as it can be) at this point, thanks to the pacemaker.

The last doctor we were seeing pretty much had his nurses do everything, and he was from India; so we have been wondering if he was one of those who got the false doctor degree.
Apparently, we have a lot of them who just bought fake documentation, and they are not any better as a doctor than the truck drivers who can’t speak or read English.

In any case, our insurance company, Devoted Health, offered virtual primary care for the first time this year. Bobby and I talked to over and decided we had nothing to lose by trying it out, since we didn’t like the doctor we had been seeing, and these people were at least actual American doctors, not from India.
We have been really happy with it , and it is nice to be able to get any medications we need right online or over the phone, and we have actual doctor visits where we make good plans for our continuing health issues. All my heart medication is sent right to me as I need it.

It also includes other benefits, like vision and dental, plus OTC allowance (which we use for vitamins and supplements), as well as a $150 annual Wellness Bucks benefit where we can buy any workout or exercise equipment, take classes, or pretty much anything else that is health and fitness related.
It includes a Silver Sneakers membership, but since they closed the fitness center near our part of Huntsville, we have not been going to the fitness center anymore, just exercising here at home.
 
Yvonne Smith said:
We have mostly just gone in for the lab work for the last few years. We have not needed a doctor for much else, except for me seeing my cardiologist for my heart failure, and I usually see him only once a year, since everything is pretty much stable (as it can be) at this point, thanks to the pacemaker.
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Yvonne, have you ever been to a kidney specialist? My PCP has sent a referral but I don't want to see a specialist. I have no idea what they could do for me so I'm not interested in going.
 
Beth Gallagher said:
Yvonne, have you ever been to a kidney specialist? My PCP has sent a referral but I don't want to see a specialist. I have no idea what they could do for me so I'm not interested in going.
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No, I have not done that. None of the doctors has suggested it, and I really do not think there is much they can do beyond what my cardiologist is already doing. The Farxiga is supposed to help both my heart failure as well as the kidney failure; but the doctors just said both will gradually worsen.
I have been able to hold it at bay somewhat with the dietary changes that makes it easier on both my heart and kidneys, and I don’t want to have to take any more meds than I already have to right now.
 
Yvonne Smith said:
No, I have not done that. None of the doctors has suggested it, and I really do not think there is much they can do beyond what my cardiologist is already doing. The Farxiga is supposed to help both my heart failure as well as the kidney failure; but the doctors just said both will gradually worsen.
I have been able to hold it at bay somewhat with the dietary changes that makes it easier on both my heart and kidneys, and I don’t want to have to take any more meds than I already have to right now.
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I feel the same way. I have made some dietary changes (cut down on salt and red meat, no alcohol). I feel like that's probably the most I will do.
 
Beth Gallagher said:
I feel the same way. I have made some dietary changes (cut down on salt and red meat, no alcohol). I feel like that's probably the most I will do.
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Re: alcohol: I've never been interested in alcohol. A few months ago, I tasted a sip of Carolan's Irish Cream. Of course I loved it since I have a sweet tooth. A friend suggested having an ounce before bed when I told him I have trouble sleeping. As with any new food or drink, I looked up the carbs/sugar & found that one ounce has 6 gms sugar - not bad. I started having an ounce before bed & contrary to what doctors say - "Diabetics should avoid alcohol" I've been waking up with much-lower glucose - 70-110. Previously, 180-250. I cut the sugar even more by filling the shot glass with half Whiskey & half Irish Cream. I've also read alcohol is a blood thinner. Bad for heavy drinkers, but beneficial for light to moderate drinkers.
As with anything, moderation, not elimination is the key.
 
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