The DSIB Blog

NPF Science Update: Bilberry

Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 -0400

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Focus on the Bilberry
By Rebecca Schauer, RD

Bilberries are closely related to the North American blueberry and huckleberry and are in the same genus Vaccinium. These purple-blue berries get their pigmentation from compounds called anthocyanins, which have demonstrated potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Considerable attention and research has focused on the health benefits of bilberry fruits, and the following is an overview of recent findings. Many of these studies employed mouse models because they are the most commonly used vertebrate species for health research, and are widely considered to be the prime model of inherited human disease and share 99% of their genes with humans. Human clinical studies typically follow once such animal studies produce strong evidence.

Diabetes

In one study, researchers tested the effect of dietary bilberry extracts on hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic mice. They found that dietary bilberry extract supplementation significantly reduced blood glucose concentrations and enhanced insulin sensitivity in these mice. The authors suggest the findings provide a biochemical basis for the use of bilberry fruits, and have important implications for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Eye Health

Bilberry has been considered effective in helping boost circulation to the eyes, providing needed nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain and fatigue.

In another mouse study, oral administration of bilberry extract showed protective effects against uveitis [inflammation of the uvea, the vascular layer of the eye sandwiched between the retina and the white of the eye (sclera)] by decreasing endogenous free radical compounds and increasing endogenous antioxidant compounds, and the effects of the bilberry extract were dose-dependent. The author

May Healthnotes

Thu, 03 May 2012 11:00:00 -0400

The new NPF Healthnotes Newsletter for May is now available online!

NPF Science Update: Resveratrol

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Resveratrol for Better Blood Sugar Control
By Maureen Williams, ND

Resveratrol

NPF Science Update: Flavonoids

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Paint Your Heart Healthy with Flavonoids
By Kimberly Beauchamp, ND

Eating more colorful, flavonoid-rich fruits and vegetables may reduce the chance of dying from heart disease by up to 40%, says a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Fix it before it breaks

Preventing heart disease is easier than curing it. We already know a lot about how to keep the heart happy, like

not smoking,
maintaining a healthy weight,
keeping blood pressure in check, and
getting regular physical exercise.

Eating more fruits and vegetables is also key to preventing heart disease. These foods are rich in magnesium, potassium, and fiber that can help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Brightly colored fruits and veggies are also high in flavonoids, plant compounds that give foods such as oranges, broccoli, and so on their characteristic hues. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions in the body. They also inhibit the oxidation of LDL (

NPF Science Update: Garlic and Immunity

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:00 -0500

Garlic and Immunity
By Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO

Human immunity, far from being a static and fixed entity, is a dynamic and adaptive system. Our immune system is made up of diverse cells with elaborate communication networks. Numerous vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutrients impact this elaborate system. One of the unsung heroes of immune support is garlic.

Garlic is one of the most extensively eaten foods in the world. Although eaten for its culinary attributes, garlic has potent immune actions. Garlic also has anti-microbial activities against bacteria, viruses, fungal organisms and parasites. Aged garlic extract increases the activity of several major immune cells including B-cells

Scholarship Deadline Extended to February 15

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Foundation has extended the deadline for applications to the NPF Scholarship Fund two weeks, through February 15, 2012.

The purpose of the NPF Scholarship Fund is to provide financial assistance for individuals who are committed to a career in the natural products industry. Specifically, the fund is targeted for students who have demonstrated leadership potential and are enrolled in academic programs to enhance their leadership skills and knowledge of the industry.

By assisting members of the community to meet their professional objectives, the Natural Products Foundation will continue to foster and support the advancement of natural products.

Finalists will be determined and assessed through an interview process to take place in the spring of 2012. Award winners will be announced at the 2012 Natural Products Association MarketPlace trade show.

To begin the application process, students may fill out a preliminary form online: naturalproductsfoundation.org/scholar2012 or return an application through fax or post mail: NPF Scholarship Fund Application.

The recipients of the 2011 NPF Scholarship Fund were Lauren Atwell of Oregon State University and Linda Sousse of the University of Texas Medical Branch. For further info on the NPF Scholarship Fund, please visit naturalproductsfoundation.org/scholarship.

NPF Science Update: Lipoic Acid

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Lipoic Acid and Cardiovascular Health
By Giana Angelo, Ph.D.

What is Lipoic Acid?
Lipoic acid (LA), a compound synthesized in the body and obtained from food, is derived from a short-chain fatty acid. LA primarily serves as a critical cofactor, or assistant, in mitochondrial energy metabolism. At high concentrations, LA functions as an antioxidant, a metal-chelator, and in glucose metabolism.

Cardiovascular Disease
The antioxidant and metal-binding activities of LA may be particularly beneficial for diseases affected by oxidative stress and free-radical damage. Chief among such diseases is cardiovascular disease (CVD), referring to any abnormal condition affecting the heart and blood vessels that can progress to heart attack and stroke. CVD is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.

Damage to blood vessels that supply the heart and brain with vital nutrients and oxygen is a common early event in CVD. Depending on the balance between injury and repair, these lesions can accumulate further damage, become constricted, and eventually result in a stroke or heart attack.

Research Findings
In cell culture and animal studies, LA exerts several positive effects on cardiovascular health. One benefit is LA

Happy Holidays!

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:00:00 -0500

NPF Science Update: Vitamin D and Cancer

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:00:00 -0500

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Vitamin D: A Defense Against Cancer?
By Jane Hart, MD

Studies suggest that globally people do not get enough vitamin D, and a lack of vitamin D may lead to serious health problems. Adding to evidence shown that getting plenty of vitamin D may help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer, a study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology affirms these findings, suggesting that higher blood levels of vitamin D may lower their risk of colorectal cancer by more than 30%.

Linking vitamin D to lower risk

In this analysis, researchers reviewed data from 17 studies that included more than 13,000 participants, and looked at how much vitamin D people consumed through diet and supplements and examined whether there is a link between vitamin D blood levels and the risk of colorectal cancer. Blood levels of vitamin D were determined by measuring 25-hydroxyvitamin D.

Results showed:

People with the highest vitamin D intake had a 12% lower risk of colorectal cancer and people with the highest blood levels had a 33% lower risk, compared with people with the least intake and the lowest blood levels.

Higher vitamin D was linked to an equal lowered risk for both colon cancer and rectal cancer.

Support NPF by Shopping Amazon.com

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Shop Amazon.com through the Natural Products Foundation and a portion of your total purchase price comes back to support NPF activities.

It couldn't be easier. Simply access Amazon through the NPF websites
naturalproductsfoundation.org and naturalproductsinfo.org and the Foundation will get a portion of the purchase price of everything you buy on the site!

The next time you want to make a purchase through Amazon, access the site through the Foundation websites, or bookmark Amazon.com in your browser through the url:
naturalproductsfoundation.org/amazon.

Whether you're purchasing books, electronics, movies, music, clothing, or anything at all that Amazon offers, you will be helping to maintain our industry's vitality as well.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

NPF Science Update: Food Safety

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Keeping Foods and Beverages Safe
By Michael Kralik, PhD

Within the food and beverage industries, the primary control measure used to preserve the freshness and prevent spoilage is the pasteurization process. Spoilage bacteria are always present in the processing of food materials, and usually will not induce illness if ingested. However, pathogenic bacteria will cause illness, and foods left exposed at unsafe temperatures in the

John R. Carlson Memorial

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 10:00:00 -0400

Industry members are honoring John R. Carlson, in accordance with family wishes, with memorial contributions to the Natural Products Foundation (NPF).

John R. Carlson, one of the natural health industry

NPF Science Update: Fish Oil

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Fish Oils and Children's Health
By Jolie Root, LPN, LNC

Parents looking for surefire ways to boost their kids

NPF Scholarship Fund Now Accepting Applications for 2012

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Awards Support Ongoing Natural Education

The Natural Products Foundation (NPF) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the NPF Scholarship Fund.

To begin the application process, students may fill out a preliminary form online: NPF Scholarship Fund Application 2012 or return an application through fax or post mail: Print Application.

By assisting members of the community to meet their professional objectives, the Natural Products Foundation will continue to foster and support the advancement of natural products.

Applications to the NPF Scholarship Fund will be accepted from October 1, 2011 through January 31, 2012. Finalists will be determined and assessed through an interview process to take place in the spring of 2012. Award winners will be announced at the 2012 Natural Products Association MarketPlace trade show.

NPF Science Update: Flavonoids

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0400

The NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Living Well with Flavonoids
Nature, Inflammation and Osteoarthritis

Botanical products have been used for medicinal purposes by human civilizations over the course of thousands of years. Not surprisingly, many of the pharmaceuticals used today are derived in part from natural substances. Flavonoids are an excellent example of a safe and effective botanical compound that has natural biological activity in physiologic processes.

In general, flavonoids are found in colored fruits, vegetables and spices as well as cocoa, teas and even red wine. When your parents said,

NPF Science Update: Acidosis

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:41:00 -0400

Each month, the NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The NPF Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Acidosis

First NPF Scholarship Award Winners Announced

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:22:00 -0400

The Natural Products Foundation (NPF) has announce the recipients of the 2011 NPF Scholarship Fund at the Natural Products Association MarketPlace trade show on June 24, 2011 in Las Vegas: Lauren Atwell of Oregon State University and Linda Sousse of the University of Texas Medical Branch.

NPF Science Update: Protein

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:42:00 -0400

Each month, the NPF Science Update brings you news about scientific advances in the field of natural products. The NPF Science Update features contributions from scientists, academics, doctors, healthcare professionals, industry veterans and other experts. To sign up to receive the monthly Science Update via email, please click here: NPF Science Update.

Protein as a Dietary Supplement

One of the most prevalent trends in the natural products industry has been the rapid ascent of protein as a dietary supplement. A major breakthrough in understanding protein occurred with the discovery that amino acids functioned as unique nutrient signals to trigger healthy metabolism. Amino acids are more than simply building blocks for new proteins. Their role in maintaining healthy metabolism helps to set a solid baseline for overall health as we age.

Our bodies are constantly repairing and rebuilding lean tissues, including muscles and bones. We need adequate protein to do so properly. Protein significantly helps to protect our bodies from age-related diseases including obesity, diabetes, muscle wasting, bone loss, and heart disease.

Protein is important in determining body composition by protecting lean tissues such as muscle and bones and eliminating body fat. Protein stimulates the body to burn extra calories, reduces hunger, and helps stabilize blood sugar. These metabolic roles are important to adult health and for treatment or prevention of obesity and diabetes. By simply maintaining an even, healthy metabolism as we age, our society may be able to turn the tide on conditions which have plagued us with increasing frequency for decades.

The benefits of protein are only realized if protein is provided in the right amounts, in the right quality, and at the right time. In order to trigger muscle repair and rebuilding, adults require about 30 grams of protein. If the protein comes from animal proteins such as whey or egg proteins, then 25 grams is adequate; if it comes from plant proteins such as wheat or soy, 35 grams are required. Protein consumed early in the day has the greatest impact on body composition, hunger, and blood glucose.

Early and consistent day-to-day intake is ideal. By helping to maintaining a simple, steady metabolic baseline and healthy bones and muscles, protein can be a vital cornerstone for ongoing well-being. Proper education and application will be key to protein

NPF Alerts FDA and FTC to Advertisers Making Illegal Drug and Disease Claims

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 -0400

Majority of Advertisers Contacted by NPF Truth in Advertising Program Now Compliant

Natural Products Foundation (NPF) representatives met with Richard Cleland of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) along with Gary Coody and others of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 20th to present documentation regarding 13 non-compliant advertisers who have failed to amend their marketing materials after being contacted by NPF

The DSIB Blog

NPF Science Update: Bilberry

May Healthnotes

NPF Science Update: Resveratrol

NPF Science Update: Flavonoids

Fix it before it breaks

NPF Science Update: Garlic and Immunity

Scholarship Deadline Extended to February 15

NPF Science Update: Lipoic Acid

Lipoic Acid and Cardiovascular HealthBy Giana Angelo, Ph.D.

Happy Holidays!

NPF Science Update: Vitamin D and Cancer

Linking vitamin D to lower risk

Support NPF by Shopping Amazon.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

NPF Science Update: Food Safety

John R. Carlson Memorial

NPF Science Update: Fish Oil

NPF Scholarship Fund Now Accepting Applications for 2012

NPF Science Update: Flavonoids

NPF Science Update: Acidosis

First NPF Scholarship Award Winners Announced

NPF Science Update: Protein

NPF Alerts FDA and FTC to Advertisers Making Illegal Drug and Disease Claims

Lipoic Acid and Cardiovascular Health
By Giana Angelo, Ph.D.