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Berberines are a particular type of constituent found in several different plants that give them a yellow colour. The most well-known of these are Barberry (Berberine vulgaris), Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium), and Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis). These herbs have been used for over 2,500 years around the world to treat a variety of different health concerns. Traditionally, berberine was used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial, viral, parasite and Candida (yeast) infections. Current research has noted many benefits of berberines for diabetes, Alzheimer's, depression, cardiovascular disease, and unhealthy cell growth. Let's explore berberine supplements that you can shop for in Canada. 

Types of Berberine Supplements in Canada

There are quite a few herbs that contain large amounts of berberine's. Let's explore the most commonly known herbs and the health benefits each offers.

Barberry

Bayberry has been used around the world for centuries to treat infections and diarrhea. Recent research has also found that it benefits the cardiovascular and nervous systems (brain and nerves).

Goldenseal

This natural antibiotic is one of the richest known sources of berberines. It has long been established as a mucous membrane tonic and is known in the herbal community as the "king of the mucous membranes".

Oregon Grape

The root of this shrub has been used for hundreds of years to help treat diarrhea. It is particularly useful in treating multi-drug-resistant bacterial infections. It can also be applied topically in a cream to help treat psoriasis.

Phellodendron Amurense

Recent research has shown that P. amurense contains berberines. It is this constituent that researchers believe gives the herb its ability to inhibit unhealthy cell growth in the lungs.

Berberine Health Benefits

Antimicrobial Activity of Berberine

Berberines have been used for their antimicrobial activity for centuries, and much of their traditional use stems from this capability. Recent research has shown berberines to have antimicrobial activity against a large variety of organisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They also have antimicrobial activity against MRSA and can prevent their ability to stick to the epithelial cells and thus prevent MRSA from invading the body and causing infection. Berberines can also potentiate current antibiotics to allow them to once again be able to kill MRSA by bypassing their resistance ability.

In addition to this, berberines are strongly active against Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, and Clostridium. All of these are bacteria that are frequent causes of infection, particularly in hospitals. Berberines also show inhibitory effects on the growth and reproduction of certain microorganisms and viruses, such as Heliobacter pylori and hepatitis B virus that have been shown to cause unhealthy cell growth. There is also some evidence that berberines can help to eliminate Candida (yeast) infections.

Strong Antioxidant Abilities of Berberine Supplements in Canada

Berberines are extremely strong antioxidants that can inhibit the generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS). Because of their extremely strong antioxidant abilities, they can help to protect cells against unhealthy cell growth, and protect the blood vessels against cardiovascular disease. It is also this effect that helps berberines to combat Alzheimer's disease.

Promotes Healthier Cholesterol

Berberine's strong antioxidant ability helps it to protect LDL ("bad") cholesterol from being oxidized, which is one of the strongest contributing factors to the formation of atherosclerosis. Recent evidence suggests that berberine has beneficial effects on dyslipidemia (imbalanced blood fats and cholesterol) as well. By promoting a healthier cholesterol and blood fat profile, berberines can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Anti-Diabetic Affect of Berberine Supplements Found In Canada

The anti-diabetic effect of berberines has been well-established by research. Some interesting new research (2011) has found that this benefit may be due to the berberines helping to regulate the gut microbes and prevent inflammation. Interestingly, this implies that diabetes may be partially caused by an inflammatory state in the body. This is a relatively new way of viewing the origin of type II diabetes and has triggered a new direction for research.

Reduces Symptoms of Leaky Gut

Much of the earliest research on berberines surrounded their use for the treatment of diarrhea. This was also one of the original traditional folk uses in history. These compounds have been shown to help reduce immune-mediated damage of the endothelial tight junctions in the gut. This helps to restore the gut barrier function and reduce the symptoms of a leaky gut.

Protects the Brain and Mental Health

Berberine has been established as beneficial in the treatment of some central nervous system disorders. It can protect neurons and prevent their death while improving circulation to the brain. Research has shown a protective effect on Alzheimer's, cerebral ischemia, mental depression, schizophrenia and anxiety.

Shopping For Berberine Supplements in Canada

When shopping for an herbal supplement containing berberine, look for ones from trustworthy brands that use pure ingredients. When possible, look for formulas that use wild-harvested, fair-trade or organic herbs. It's important to follow the dosing directions found on the product label. If you are on any medication, pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your healthcare provider prior to starting them.

Known as a popular spice in the kitchen, cayenne pepper can also be taken as a supplement due to its many health benefits. Cayenne, also known as red pepper or hot pepper, can be applied topically for its pain relieving properties which activate nerve endings to produce counter-irritation, which distracts the brain from the painful stimuli.

Medicinal Properties of Cayenne Pepper Supplements

Cayenne pepper supplements can be used to help rheumatism, arthritis (osteo and rheumatoid), neuropathies, itching and frostbite. Cayenne increases circulation, both centrally and in the extremities. It does this by activating type “C’ neurons.

These neurons increase the contractility of the heart and dilate vessels. Cayenne’s circulatory effects are helpful for diabetic circulatory compromise, Meniere’s disease, heart disease and low blood pressure. In the stomach cayenne increases blood flow, decreases stomach spasms and causes a minor irritation of the stomach lining. This irritation is actually helpful because it stimulates the secretion of acid-protective mucus, which can heal ulcers.

Shopping For Quality Cayenne Pepper Supplements & Spices

Cayenne can be purchased as a spice in the grocery store for use in cooking. It can also be purchased at your health food store as an encapsulated powder or tincture. The strength of cayenne in the spice aisle is variable and depends on the initial quality of the herb and how long ago it was processed as the active ingredients in cayenne degrade over time.

Encapsulated powder or tinctures can be purchased as a standardized product, which assures that active ingredients are in the pepper and that you are taking in the same medicinal amount with each dose. Topically cayenne can be found in creams, salves and rubs, some of which are also standardized.

Cautions To Consider When Using Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne is an eye, wound and mucous membrane irritant so use caution when handling cayenne creams, salves, tinctures or open cayenne capsules. Cayenne decreases blood clotting and should not be used by those who are taking blood thinning medications or aspirin. Because cayenne increases circulation it can adversely affect blood pressure and may decrease the effectiveness of blood pressure medication. Cayenne may also alter the effect of the MAO inhibitor psychiatric drugs.

The amino acids that the body cannot produce, and need to be taken in through the diet, are called essential. Histidine is one of these essential amino acids. It is important for the growth and repair of several body tissues. In the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), this amino protects the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibres.

If this protective sheath degenerates a "shorting out" of the message occurs and the signal never gets to the appropriate part of the body. This is what happens in the disease of multiple sclerosis.

The Role of Histidine In Your Body

This amino acid helps to manufacture red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. Red blood cells are oxygen-carrying cells. The medical term for a lack of oxygen-carrying ability is anemia and it results in fatigue. White blood cells are part of your immune system. They protect your body from harmful microorganisms (infection) and monitor your cells to eliminate those that work improperly.

Health Benefits of Histidine

Histamine is a chemical that is derived from this amino acid. It is well known as the cause of allergic symptoms like a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. However, histamine is necessary for certain bodily functions like the production of stomach acid and sexual arousal and pleasure. 

Histidine can be supplemented for the following conditions: 

• Multiple sclerosis
• Nerve degeneration
• Anemia
• Low immune functioning
• Hypertension
• Heavy metal toxicity
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Impotence
• Low libido
• Indigestion

Histidine Supplement Varieties

The biologically active form of this amino acid is L-histidine. It is found in capsules. To increase your production of histamine supplement with L-histidine, vitamin B3 and vitamin B6. Take amino acid supplements at least 1/2 hour before or after a meal to maximize their absorption. If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, add an amino acid complex to the protocol to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids.

Potential Side Effects & Contraindications

Methionine counteracts the effect of histidine. Individuals with schizophrenia, anxiety or bipolar disorder should not use histidine.

Drinking tea has numerous health benefits and there are so many teas to choose from! If you are looking for a way to naturally support weight loss, boost mental alertness and increase antioxidants in your diet, then make your next cup of tea, oolong tea.

Discover The Origins Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is made from the leaves, buds and stems of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the same plant that is used to make black tea and green tea. Oolong tea is partially fermented, whereas black tea is fully fermented and green tea is unfermented. The ancient art of making oolong tea is thought to be over 400 years old and involves various techniques of drying, oxidation and rolling. The degree of oxidation can be between 8-85% and the different processing techniques greatly influence the taste of the tea. This means there are many different kinds of oolong teas with many unique tastes. The trick is to try different oolong teas in order to find the one that is most pleasing to your unique taste buds.

Key Uses & Benefits of Oolong Tea

Thought to be one of the world's most famous teas, oolong tea has a long history of use in Chinese tea ceremonies and with Chinese tea connoisseurs. However in the West, oolong tea is best known as a weight loss aid and preventative for obesity. Dr. Oz has even mentioned it's ability to boost metabolism for up to 2 hours after drinking one cup. Not only is it a great weight loss aid, it also increases mental alertness, balances blood sugar levels, reduces blood pressure, prevents tooth decay and osteoporosis and can improve skin conditions like eczema.

Understanding Oolong's Role For Your Health

Oolong tea combines the benefits of both black tea and green tea. It contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants commonly found in black teas. Oolong tea also contains flavanols and catechins, which are antioxidants found in green tea that work to improve metabolism, lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar. L-theanine is an amino acid found in both oolong and green tea, which helps you de-stress by calming and focusing your nervous system.

Oolong tea contains 50-60mg of caffeine per cup, which has a significant effect on mental alertness and weight loss. The caffeine in oolong tea boosts your metabolism by increases resting energy expenditure and cellular thermogenesis, meaning it increases the calories you burn at rest.

Tips For Making The Perfect Cup of Tea

You can buy oolong tea as a loose leaf tea or in tea bags. Start your morning with oolong tea to boost your metabolism for 2 hours and to keep you alert and focused for your day. You can drink 1-5 cups daily and it is best to drink it black if you want to promote weight loss and balance your blood sugars. Since oolong tea contains caffeine, use it to replace your regular coffee which is often a source of added calories from cream and sugar. However, don't drink it before bed because it's caffeine content will likely cause insomnia.

New research has linked the health of the bacteria living in your intestines to your ability to lose weight. If you are struggling with losing weight, you may be suffering from a bacterial imbalance in your gut.

What are Healthy Bacteria?

Most people know that they have bacteria living in their intestines. Again, most people have heard of "healthy bacteria" and "bad bacteria" and know that you should supplement with healthy bacteria when you take an antibiotic. Many medical doctors even suggest you take a probiotic after taking an antibiotic.

However, did you know that we are just scratching the surface of understanding what health bacteria really are and what they really do?

We have 4 pounds of bacteria living in our gut and they influence much more than digestion. They boost immunity, healthy mood and protect against chronic disease. The exciting news is that we've now discovered that healthy bacteria will promote weight loss!

How Your Gut Bacteria Can Effect Weight Loss

In her new book, The Skinny Gut Diet, Brenda Watson CNC discusses how your gut bacteria can make you fat. She talks about "gut balance" and how it's important for the healthy bacteria to outnumber the bad bacteria in your intestines. When the bacteria are out of balance, then dysbiosis occurs and dysbiosis has been linked to many health conditions like autism, heart disease, diabetes and now obesity.

It turns out that the gut bacteria found in obese people differs from lean people and having the wrong balance of gut bacteria can make you fat. We are learning that the gut bacteria found in obese persons are more efficient at extracting calories from food passing through the digestive tract. So that means you may be getting more calories from the same meal compared to your thinner friend. If you've been battling your weight for a long-time, then changing your gut bacterial balance may just be the answer your looking for.

Scientific Evidence On Gut Bacteria & Weight Loss

A recent scientific study has changed how we understand gut bacteria. Jeffery Gordon's team of researchers at Washington University performed an eye opening study with mice. They found that when they transferred the gut bacteria from conventionally raised, genetically obese mice into the digestive tracts of germ-free mice, the germ-free mice became obese. This is significant because the researchers discovered that intestinal bacterial imbalance could be a cause of obesity. Until this study was done, intestinal bacterial imbalance was believed to only be the result of being obese and eating a poor diet. The researchers also found that the obese mice had a 50% reduction in the abundance of bacteria that keep you lean, called Bacteroidetes and a proportional increase in the bacteria that keep you fat, called the Firmicutes.

Did you catch that? Researchers have discovered that there are two main groups of bacteria in your gut and the ratio of these two groups determines whether or not you will be more likely to gain weight. In her book, Brenda Watson calls the Firmicutes the "Fat Bacteria" and the Bacteroidetes the "Be Skinny Bacteria". The "fat bacteria" are really good at extracting extra calories from food, so losing weight means you need to increase the "be skinny bacteria".

Another interesting study was done by Vanessa Ridaura, a graduate student in Gordon's lab. The researchers transplanted stool from 4 pairs of female twins into germ-free mice. In each pair of twins, one twin was lean and one was obese. The mice were fed the same low-fat, high-fiber diet and it was found that the mice who received gut bacteria from the obese twin gained more fat that the mice who received gut bacteria from the lean twin.

How To Balance Gut Bacteria To Lose Weight?

If you are concerned that your gut bacteria are out of balance, especially if you are overweight, there's good news! You can quickly influence your own gut bacteria through diet, lifestyle and supplements.

Eating a diet that supports healthy bacteria is important. Eating healthy fats, eating high-fiber whole foods and eating protein with every meal and snack, will support the healthy bacteria in your gut. Healthy bacteria like brightly coloured vegetables and fruits because they supply the bacteria with prebiotics. Cutting out sugar, processed carbohydrates and unhealthy fats will starve the bad bacteria because they thrive on these damaging foods. Remember, it's about balancing your gut bacteria so more healthy bacteria live in your intestines.

You can also use probiotic supplements to balance your gut bacteria and promote weight loss. Choose one that contains at least 30 billion cultures per capsule and contains at least 10 different strains of bacteria. Also, look for high amounts of Bifidobacterium to support the large intestine and Lactobacillus to support the small intestine. Be sure to choose a probiotic that

has a specialized capsule or is acid resistant so that the bacteria are not damaged by the harsh stomach acid and will get to the intestines.

What is The Thyroid?

Nestled in the front of your neck, the thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that plays a crucial role in regulating your body's metabolism. It controls how your body processes sugar, fat, and protein. It also influences key functions, like heart rate, body temperature, digestion, fertility, and skin and bone health. Maintaining the right balance of thyroid hormone is vital, ensuring your body stays energized while also having time to repair and thrive.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Low thyroid function is common in today’s society. This is due in part to stressful lifestyles, lack of nutritious foods and an increase in environmental pollutants. 

Signs your thyroid may be low functioning include: 

• Weight gain
• Frequent infections
• Dry and cold skin
• Poor nail growth and hair loss
• High cholesterol
• Swelling of the hands and feet
• Menstrual irregularities
• Goiter
• Fatigue and an increased need for sleep
• Decreased initiative, lack of concentration, and poor memory
• Bowel changes
• Muscle and joint aches
• Allergies and asthma

Supplements to Improve Thyroid Hormones

If you notice a change in your thyroid hormone levels and are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Thyroxin is available by prescription in Canada. But, if you'd like a natural product, a supplement called Thyroid or Armour thyroid contains both T4 and the more active T3. This is important for a small percentage of people who can’t convert T4 into T3. 

Most thyroid glandular supplements are certified thyroxin- free to eliminate the risk of sending users into a hyperthyroid state. The best source for glandular extracts is New Zealand, where they are free from pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics and disease.

Here are several alternatives to enhance your body’s production of thyroxin without taking thyroxin itself:

• Protein intake is important because it contains the amino acid tyrosine, a precursor to thyroxin.
• Vitamins and minerals are needed to produce and convert thyroxin into the more potent T3. These nutrients include iodine, copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin A and vitamin E.
• Thyroid glandular is an extract of the thyroid gland of an animal, usually a sheep or cow. It supports the activity of the thyroid and regulates metabolism. It may provide its users with a mild increase in energy and stamina.

Dietary considerations for optimizing thyroid functioning include:

• Avoiding chlorinated and fluoridated water because they block iodine receptors in the thyroid. 
• Avoiding broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peaches, pears, rutabagas, soybeans, onions, spinach and turnips because they suppress thyroid hormone function.