Five Tips for Healthy Hair and Nails

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE HEALTH OF HAIR AND NAILS

This is by no means a comprehensive overview of nails and health. And, there are numerous factors that affect hair and nails, including environment, genetics, medications, trauma, and diet. But, I hope you find this interesting and informative.

The average human with a full head of hair contains between 85,000 to 150,000 hairs.
It's normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs a day but anyone who notices thinning hair should see a dermatologist.

Hairstyles that pull the hair, like ponytails and braids, can cause hair loss.
Fingernails grow 0.1 millimeters each day and toenails grow 1 millimeter a month. Fingernails grow faster than toenails, and nails grow faster in a warmer climate than in a colder climate.

Omega-3s from salmon, mackerel, anchovies and sardines are beneficial for your overall health, but your body also needs them to grow hair and keep it shiny and full.

Protein, containing all the essential amino acids, provides the building block of your hair and nails. By the way, it is not true that gelatin (either eating it or soaking nails in it) are great for your nails. Gelatin is a protein, but is not of very good quality and is considered incomplete (missing one or more essential amino acids). Any other complete protein source would provide better nutrient support for your nails and hair than gelatin (despite the marketing on gelatin packaging).

Along with very low protein, a severely calorie-restricted diet can also cause temporary hair loss.
Cells that build hair rely on zinc to help them work their hardest.

Foods and activities that increase blood flow, or circulation, help bring oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles.

Your body turns beta carotene into vitamin A. That helps protect against dry, dull hair. It also encourages the glands in your scalp to make an oily fluid called sebum.

When you don't get enough protein, hair growth "rests" and older hairs fall out, which can result in excessive hair loss.

Getting too little iron can lead to hair loss. You can find this important nutrient in fortified cereal, grains, and pastas, and in soybeans and lentils, and dark green leafy vegetables (note: spinach is not a good source of iron. Only about 1% of the iron in spinach is bioavailable because it is tied up by the high level of oxalates contained in spinach. It also binds most of the calcium).

Vitamin A (or beta-carotene), iron, folate, and vitamin C work together for a healthy scalp and hair. They help keep the scalp and hair moisturized so it doesn't break.

Two other B vitamins, pantothenic acid (B5) and biotin, play important roles in hair health, and deficiencies of either can affect hair health or cause hair loss.

Most vitamin deficiencies can lead to hair loss. All the vitamins and minerals are important, but that doesn't mean that you necessarily need to buy special supplements for your hair or nails. Of course there are exceptions, but eating a healthy mixed diet, taking a quality multivitamin/mineral supplement, getting adequate hydration, protein and calories will generally provide all the nutrients you need to support healthy nails and hair.

Visit our other pages: https://askthescientists.info/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usanahealthandscience/

From Deanna:  Personally, I am thankful for USANA's CellSentials and Health Pak, since both provide a wide variety of essential nutrients for healthy hair and nails.

Tips to Support Your Immune System

With winter coming and students back at school, flues and colds begin to spread throughout halls and families.  The following article gives great tips to build your immune system and avoid time suffering away from work and school.  Deanna Waters

Written by John Cuomo October 26, 2016 in Health & Fitness 

Support Your Immune System

It’s that time of year when we all start feeling a little worn down and stressed. Why not find an immune support supplement that is designed to help you stay at your best even during times of occasional stress?

Effective Ingredients

Below are a few active ingredients you should look for when looking for an immune support supplement with great overall health benefits:

• Reishi (ganoderma lucidum) and shiitake (lentinula edodes) mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicines to support vitality. They are rich in polysaccharides with immunomodulation properties to help promote cellular protection.
• Beta-glucans (often found in baker’s yeast) are a specific type of complex carbohydrate that help prime our immune cells to work faster and more efficiently.
• Zinc is an essential trace element that supports proper functioning of immune cells and serves as an intracellular signaling molecule, enhancing the effectiveness of the beta-glucans. It also acts as an antioxidant to help defend against oxidative stress.

Our lives can be incredibly demanding, which is why we have to be aware of how our bodies respond to the stresses of daily life. That’s what makes these specific nutrients great—and why we’re proud to combine them effectively in our newest supplement.

Together, they can prime your immune cells’ natural protective responses, so they can support your health effectively. USANA’s Proglucamune™ helps protect your health and well-being every day by using our Patent-Pending USANA InCelligence Technology™ to bind to receptors on immune cells, putting them on high alert and helping them adapt to your unique needs.

Healthy Actions to Take

Below are other simple things you can do to help your immune system this busy holiday season:

1. Get plenty of quality sleep
2. Wash your hands regularly
3. Keep a healthy weight
4. Exercise daily
5. Take your vitamins

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

We’re proud to bring you the freshest content on the web! Follow USANA on Twitter, like our USANA Facebook page and enjoy the latest videos on the official USANA YouTube channel.
Learn what USANA is doing to make the world a better place.
The future of personalized health and nutrition is now available with USANA’s True Health Assessment.

Do You Have A Healthy Gut? Here's How to Achieve That!

This article is a MUST to read, concerning a healthy gut.  Otherwise, many problems can occur when we take digestion for granted and problems occur.

Tips for a Healthy Gut

Written by USANA Health Sciences November 23, 2015 in Dr. Oz, Health & Fitness with 1 Comment

Last Updated 10/21/16

This time of year we tend to focus more attention on holiday entertaining and indulging in calorie-dense foods and beverages and less on healthy eating and exercise.

Have you ever given much thought to how your body digests food? Do you have a well-functioning digestive system?

With the holidays fast approaching, this may be a good time to assess your digestive health so you can maintain a healthy gut.

Here are the basics—the food you eat is a diverse mixture of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats as well as vitamins, minerals, and other phytonutrients. The function of your digestive system is to break down this diverse combination so the nutrients can provide nourishment and energy throughout your body.

Since you need a variety of nutrients, your digestive system takes these whole foods and breaks them down into small molecules, using a variety of mechanical methods and enzyme-containing digestive juices. You absorb these molecules through the walls of your small intestine and into the bloodstream where they are transported throughout your body to be used for energy, growth, and tissue repair.
Unfortunately, as we age, the digestive process may become less efficient, leading to potential nutrient deficiencies. Maintaining health depends in part on a well-functioning digestive system.

5 Tips to Help Support Healthy Digestion

1: Chew your food thoroughly. Saliva moistens food particles and provides enzymes to start the process of starch and fat digestion. Chewing also signals the production of stomach acid and sets the pancreas and other support organs in motion to prepare to secrete enzymes into the small intestine.

2: An adequate amount of stomach acid is required to break down proteins. A decrease in stomach acid production can become more common as we age, and a variety of diseases and certain medications may also inhibit sufficient stomach acid production, including the overuse of antacids. Use antacids as directed and only when needed.

3: Some studies have shown that the production of pancreatic enzymes may decrease as you get older. Fortunately there are comprehensive enzyme supplements available to help with an age-related decline. However, do not kid yourself—supplementing with digestive enzymes will not make up for overindulging in unhealthy foods. Try starting your meal with fresh fruit or a salad, as fiber is also important for digestive health.
4: Eliminate foods you are allergic or sensitive to. Allergens can cause an immune response that triggers inflammation in the intestinal tract, which may interrupt the digestive process. Getting rid of these foods will help maintain a healthy environment in your GI tract.

5: And finally, especially during this time of year, commit to managing stress effectively. Research has shown that the intestines respond negatively to stress, which may impact the digestive process. Participating in regular exercise and eating meals at regular times in a relaxed environment may help decrease stress levels.

Understanding causes of digestive issues, how to reduce symptoms, and supplementing with a comprehensive digestive enzyme product as appropriate, will help most people enjoy this wonderful holiday season.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

We’re proud to bring you the freshest content on the web! Follow USANA on Twitter, like our USANA Facebook page and enjoy the latest videos on the official USANA YouTube channel.
Learn what USANA is doing to make the world a better place.
The future of personalized health and nutrition is now available with USANA’s True Health Assessment.

What You Should Know About the Science of Cell Signaling

Infographic: The Science of Cell Signaling

Written by Emily Alaniz September 21, 2016

Have you heard about cell signaling? It sounds kind of complicated—in fact, if you Google it, you’ll get some confusing results.

But the basic concept is simple. All you really need to remember is that everything you put in your body is basically information for your cells. Intrigued? Check out the infographic below. It explains how nutrition affects cell signaling, and why that’s important.

This infographic was designed by Parrin Habibpour and inspired by a magazine story written by Matt Jaggi and Dr. Kevin Spelman.

(From Deanna Waters - This is about the new breakthrough science at USANA, called InCelligence Technology.  What a powerful gift to your trillions of cells!)

New Era in Nutritional Science Adapts to Your Specific Needs

A New Era of Nutritional Science

Since the introduction of the USANA^® Essentials in 1992, USANA has set the standard for excellence in science-based nutrition and wellness products. InCelligence is the next revolution in creating optimal health through products that help your body adapt to your unique needs.*

Led by the visionary Dr. Myron Wentz, our in-house research and development team has integrated advances in the sciences of molecular biology and cell signaling with our expert knowledge of cellular nutrition to develop InCelligence Technology.

Research Resources

These downloadable resources provide additional information about InCelligence Technology and products. Check back here for updates as more studies and information are added.

InCelligence White Paper
InCelligence References
Sanoviv CellSentials Biochemical Marker Evaluation
CellSentials Safety and Quality of Life Survey
Hepasil DTX™ Increases Antioxidant and Detoxification Capacity by Boosting Glutathione and Vitamin C (2)

Research Partners

In addition to ongoing in-house studies, USANA continues to partner with respected research institutions to discover new frontiers of this exciting new science.

Ben A. Bahr, Ph.D., University of North Carolina – Pembroke
Sanoviv Medical Institute


Patents (pending or provisional)

• Compositions for Upregulating Endogenous Antioxidant Systems
• Methods and Compositions for Reducing Damage Associated with Oxidative Phosphorylation

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
 
Source: USANA Health Sciences

For further information:  Deanna Waters  watersdd2@gmail.com 

How to Lower the Risk of Stroke for Women

 Here is an important study that shows how the risks for strokes in women can be reduced according to their levels of potassium, magnesium and calcium.  However, in fact, most women would not even be aware of what their levels of these minerals would be.  Doctors don't measure them, and even if they did, where is the data to help them know what to eat and what reliable supplements to take?   Read this study and then my comments below.

The results of a large prospective study show that women with a higher intake of magnesium, potassium and calcium have a lower risk of stroke.
HIGHER INTAKES OF POTASSIUM, MAGNESIUM AND CALCIUM ARE RELATED TO LOWER STROKE RISK

Calcium, potassium and magnesium are the 3 most abundant minerals in the body. Each play roles in the health of the cardiovascular system. Although studies have shown these minerals to have benefits related to cardiovascular health, information on the relation of magnesium, potassium and calcium with stroke risk have been inconsistent. These minerals are often found together in foods, and their intakes are strongly correlated.

In a new recent published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers examined the associations between intakes of magnesium, potassium and calcium with stroke risk in a large population of women.

The participants included 180,864 women that were participants in two studies, the Nurses Health Study and Nurses Health Study 2 (NHS and NHS 2). Follow-up in the NHS was 30 years, and 22 years for the NHS 2. Food frequency questionnaires were used to document intake of each mineral and a combination of the 3 from both dietary and supplemental sources.

During the follow-up period, a total of 3,780 stroke cases were documented. Compared to the women in the lowest 20% of magnesium intake the women with the highest 20% of intake had a 13% lower risk of stroke. Women with the highest potassium intake had an 11% lower risk of stroke. Women with the highest combined mineral score had a 28% reduced risk of stroke.

Based on an updated meta-analysis of all prospective studies to date, the risk of stroke was reduced 13% for each 100 mg/day increase in magnesium intake. For each 1,000mg/day increase in potassium intake there was a 9% reduction in stroke risk. Calcium intake was not independently associated with stroke risk.

The results of this study show that both magnesium and potassium intakes are inversely associated with stroke risk, and that women with a higher intake of the combination of magnesium, potassium and calcium have a significantly lower risk of total stroke.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4441806/

Thank you to the USANA Health and Education Department for revealing this study.

Note from Deanna:  It would be interesting to see whether studies have been done to see how these minerals affect men as well, and their reduction in the risk of having a stroke.  In the meantime, it would seem reasonable to have your levels of potasium, calcium and magnesium checked.  I have put my faith in the USANA nutritional supplements to boost my health. 
Please contact me for further information.

Deanna Waters   watersdd2@gmail.com
www.ddwaters.com

 

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS IMPROVE HEART HEALTH IN OLDER ADULTS

The benefits of most supplemental nutrients are more obvious after chronic long-term use (except correction of deficiencies, of course). Here is a paper showing fish oil having benefits even with short-term intake (6 months).

It is well-known that omega-3 fatty acids can improve long-term heart health. 

A study published in the medical journal Chest indicates that omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil may improve heart function even after short-term supplementation.

Researchers followed 58 people aged 60 or older who were randomly assigned to take either marine-derived omega-3s (fish oil) or plant-derived omega-3s (alpha-linolenic acid) from soy oil. 

The oils were taken as 1-gram capsules, twice daily for six months.
A measure of heart-healthiness called heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed every other day. 

Supplementation with 2 grams a day of fish oil was associated with a significant increase in HRV. The supplementation with 2 grams a day of soy oil also significantly improved HRV, but to a lesser degree than the fish oil.

In addition to other factors known to improve heart health, such as exercise, weight loss, and stress reduction, taking a daily omega-3 oil supplement may therefore reduce the risk of developing irregular heart rhythm or succumbing to sudden cardiac death.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15821181

Information provided by the USANA Health and Education Department.

Note from Deanna Waters:  My husband and I appreciate the science behind the USANA BiOmega fish oil supplements, which contain a concentrated dose of two important Omega-3 fatty acids - EPA and DHA - to support healthy cellular function throughout the body.

MULTIVITAMIN/MINERAL SUPPLEMENTATION MAY IMPROVE ASPECTS OF BRAIN FUNCTION IN HEALTHY CHILDREN

Twelve weeks of supplementation with vitamins and minerals was found to boost the attention scores of children, according to results published in the British Journal of Nutrition.

MULTIVITAMIN/MINERAL SUPPLEMENTATION MAY IMPROVE ASPECTS OF BRAIN FUNCTION IN HEALTHY CHILDREN

It is well known that adequate levels of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are essential for optimal neural functioning. A significant percentage of individuals, including children, suffer from deficiencies in one or more vitamins or minerals.

This study investigated whether daily supplementation with multivitamins could alter cognitive performance and mood in healthy children.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study included 81 healthy children aged 8-14. The children were reportedly all healthy and free from food allergies. None of the children used other dietary supplements during the three months prior to the study. Participants were randomly assigned to daily multivitamin and mineral supplements or placebo for 12 weeks.

The children underwent laboratory assessments of their cognitive performance and mood pre-dose and at 1 and 3 h post-dose on the first and last days of the trial. Assessments were also completed at home after 4 and 8 weeks at 3 hours post-dose.

Cognitive performance was measured using a battery of laboratory assessments, which included tasks assessing mood and the speed and accuracy of attention and aspects of memory.

The children in the vitamin/mineral group performed more accurately on two tests of attention. No effects were observed on measures of the children’s mood.

Although the results of this study require further investigation, it suggests that vitamin/mineral supplementation has the potential to improve brain function in healthy children.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18507881

Information provided by USANA Health and Science Education Department.

Note from Deanna Waters:  I recommend the USANA Health Sciences multi vitamins and minerals for children called USANIMALS, which is uniquely pharmaceutical grade, guaranteed for potency, purity, dissolution and bioavailability.  A wonderful choice for children.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms Improve with Regular Walking & Glucosamine Supplements

 moderate hip or knee osteoarthritis, walking a minimum of 3,000 steps ( 30 )   The results of a clinical trial published in Arthritis Research and Therapy suggest that supplementing with glucosamine and taking regular walks (about 3000 steps or 30 minutes, at least 3 days per week) can improve pain, physical function, and overall activity levels in adults with mild to moderate knee or hip osteoarthritis.

Subjects included 36 inactive middle-aged adults that were treated with 1500 mg of glucosamine per day for 6 weeks, followed by a walking program of either 3 or 5 days per week (glucosamine supplementation continued). Physical activity levels, physical function, and pain assessment scores improved during the first 6 weeks of the study. Between the start of the walking program (week 6) and the final follow-up (week 24), further improvements were seen, though most improvements happened between weeks 6 and 12. No significant differences were observed between participants who participated in the 3 and 5 day per week programs.

Note:  Information courtesy of USANA Health Sciences, June 15, 2016

From Deanna Waters:  I have found this study to be true in my own case.  The combination of regular walking at least 3 days a week, and daily intake of glucosamine has made a great difference for me, ongoing over the past two years.  I also do a variety of other exercises at the gym.

One of the biggest concerns with aging, is the fear of cognitive decline or dementia.  This study affirms my determination to take my daily dose of USANA's BiOmega fish oil capsules for optimal Omega 3's.

USANA Health and Science Education

 

Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that we know are beneficial for the heart and brain. But, research now shows that higher blood levels of EPA/DHA may be correlated with the actual size of the hippocampus, the area of the brain related to learning and cognition. Very interesting stuff.

HIGHER EPA AND DHA LEVELS ARE CORRELATED WITH HEALTHIER BRAIN SIZE IN AGING ADULTS

Normal aging results in overall brain atrophy, or shrinkage. In a study published in the journal Neurology, scientists looked at the possible association between higher levels omega-3 fatty acids and greater brain volume in aging adults.

The study included 1,111 women aged 65 to 80 enrolled in the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study. At the beginning of the study, blood samples were taken to analyze omega-3 fatty acid (EPA and DHA) levels. On an average of 8 years later, magnetic resonance imagining (MRI) was conducted to measure brain volumes. In addition to total brain volume, several specific regions of the brain were also measured. Adjustments were made for factors such as hormone therapy, time since randomization, demographics, and cerebral and cardiovascular disease risk.

In fully adjusted models, a greater blood volume of EPA and DHA was correlated with a larger brain volume, and even more specifically with greater hippocampal volume in these postmenopausal women. The hippocampus is an area of the brain involved with cognition and learning. This effect on brain volume is thought to be the equivalent of delaying the normal age-related loss of brain cells by one to two years.

The results of this study suggest that higher omega-3 fatty acid levels achieved through diet or supplementation may reduce normal brain atrophy and help delay cognitive aging and dementia.

Full paper:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3917688/

 

For more information on this topic and to purchase USANA's BiOmega fish oil capsules,

please contact:  Deanna Waters   www.ddwaters.com   watersdd2@gmail.com 

HIGHER MAGNESIUM INTAKE MAY REDUCE RISK OF ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE

Are you getting enough magnesium?

 

USANA Health and Science Education

May 30,2016

 

If you’ve ever heard the objection “supplements just make expensive urine,” here is a study illustrating the concept that if you aren’t excreting some through the urine, you may not be getting enough. 

Adults with the lowest urinary excretion of magnesium had a higher risk of heart disease.

HIGHER MAGNESIUM INTAKE MAY REDUCE RISK OF ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE

In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, adult participants with the lowest magnesium urinary excretion, an indicator of magnesium uptake, had a significantly increased risk of ischemic heart disease. 

The research participants included 7,664 adults that were part of a population-based cohort study known as the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-Stage Disease (PREVEND) study. All participants were free of known cardiovascular disease at the beginning of the trial. Urinary magnesium excretion was measured in 2 baseline 24-hour urine collections.

During an average follow-up of 10.5 years, 462 fatal and nonfatal IHD events occurred. Research indicated a relationship between urinary magnesium excretion and IHD risk. 

The participants with the lowest 20% of magnesium excretion were 60% more likely to experience a fatal or nonfatal IHD event than those with higher magnesium urinary excretion. 

Similarly, the group with the lowest magnesium excretion experienced a 70% increased risk of mortality resulting from IHD. There was no significant association between circulating plasma magnesium and risk of IHD. 

The results of this study suggest that low magnesium urinary excretion, an indicator of magnesium status, may be associated with an increased risk of IHD incidence. Therefore, the risk of ischemic heart disease may be reduced by increasing dietary intake of magnesium, especially in those with the lowest urinary magnesium excretion.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23485414
Check out our other sites:
https://askthescientists.info/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usanahealthandscience/

From Deanna Waters:  Magnesium is just one of the necessary nutrients that we need every day.  That's why including optimal nutritional supplementation twice a day is so important.  For magnesium, I trust the USANA Essentials and the Calcium Plus (with magnesium)

 

Please take the free health assessment at my site and allow me to help you personalize your nutrition.

Jane Goodall Teaches Us About Aging With Purpose

This past year, I have been struggling with the issue of aging.  

When do I move aside and let those younger than me take over with some of what I do?

Do I have relevance anymore?

How do I continue to move forward with my passion to wake people up to what is going on in the environment and how important it is to be proactive about their health?

And equally important, how do I help people understand the importance of creating extra streams of residual income, to prepare for their later years, or to add those extras to life at present for their families?  What about having more income to support relevant charities and places of faith?

Enter an article in Reader's Digest, February 2016, page 50 with Jane Goodall, age 81, world famous primatologist, author, and Founder of Roots and Shoots.

Question:  How much does your passion for your work have to do with aging well?

Jane's answer:  "It's the other way around: aging well has to do with having passion.  I just read a survey of people over 80, and they found overwhelming proof that those with a passion stayed healthy and fit and driven.  The others just succumbed because there was no reason not to.  They weren't sick, just old.  They succumbed to oldness."

That statement inspires me to continue working out at the gym.  When a person is fit, they have more energy to pursue their dreams and to make a difference.

Gathering with friends over a meal solidifies love and acceptance, so important for a person's health and positive mindset.

Attending large corporate events keeps a person's mind engaged and active.  This International Convention for USANA Health Sciences spurs on my resolve to spread the need for optimal nutritional supplementation.  And for those who understand the power of working together for everyone's benefit, to open people's eyes to greater economic options.

Whether this message is for you, or someone you know who is struggling with their advancing age, take the advice of Jane Goodall and don't succumb to oldness!  You are relevant.  You have much wisdom to share!  You are still young, whatever your age.   Every day counts.  Life is too short to waste it on meaningless activities or nothingness.  Make your life count.

Deanna Waters  I care about you!  You are awesome!
www.thewatersedge.com 
thewatersedge@shaw.ca

Every Day, Give Your Heart Loving, Healthy Care

Every Month is a Time to Love Your Heart

Written by Austin Catmull February 10, 2016 in Heart Health Month, products, Supplement Spotlight with 0 Comments

Did you know February was American Heart Health Month? It seems only fitting that the month we see so many fun Valentine hearts floating around is also the month we are asked to remember the physical state of our hearts by being more health conscious.  And of course, we need to give special attention to our hearts, which pump so faithfully for us day in, day out, week by week, month by month.

Since February was heart health month, I thought it was time we talked about one of USANA’s premier products for heart health: Proflavanol^® C100. Let’s discuss how this supplement can help support the health of you and your loved ones.

A Lovely Combination

Proflavanol has two main ingredients for heart health: grape seed extract and vitamin C.

Grape Seed Extract
When it comes to “super fruits” that have antioxidant benefits, grapes are one of the best sources out there. I know, I know, grapes aren’t a newfound, ultra-rare berry found in some remote jungle, but they pack a punch when it comes to antioxidants. The seeds in grapes are rich in bioflavonoids, that help support a healthy heart.*
Poly C^® Blend


What makes Proflavanol even more unique is that it’s made with USANA’s innovative Nutritional Hybrid Technology, so it combines these two nutrients into one powerful supplement to help you maintain good health. A study USANA Scientists conducted in collaboration with Boston University found that supplementation with both grape seed extract and vitamin C has a positive influence on healthy blood flow to support cardiovascular health.

Keep it Pumping

Did you know the average adult heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood each day? And as one of the hardest-working organs in the body, the heart has unique nutritional needs. USANA’s heart health supplements are specially designed to support healthy heart function:

• Support healthy circulation*
• Help maintain healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range*
• Maintain good health by neutralizing free radicals, which can cause excessive oxidative stress over time*
• Support healthy immune function*

So you can see Proflavanol is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a supplement optimized specifically for heart health.*

If You Struggle with Exercise

In addition to proper nutrition, we should all work on fostering healthy habits of regular exercise and activity. I’ll be honest, I’ve never been fantastic at following a consistent exercise routine. My efforts have been sporadic at best, but I do love to stay active. I especially enjoy tennis and snowboarding.

See, exercise can be fun…and cold.

I came across this concept years ago, and it really stuck with me: “If you find an activity you love doing, you’ll never have to exercise a day in your life.”

So if you’re the type who struggles with a regular exercise program (like I do), try to find fun hobbies or activities that will get you off of the couch and moving around. Doing these a few times a week can help out.

On top of that, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes, and limiting highly refined carbohydrates is important in supporting a healthy heart. And don’t forget to take your Proflavanol as well.*

For further information please contact Deanna Waters, www.ddwaters.com  thewatersedge@shaw.ca

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

We’re proud to bring you the freshest content on the web! Follow USANA on Twitter, like our USANA Facebook page and enjoy the latest videos on the official USANA YouTube channel.
Learn what USANA is doing to make the world a better place.
The future of personalized health and nutrition is now available with USANA’s True Health Assessment.

High Vitamin D levels are associated with a decreased risk of all-cause and specific mortality risk

Originally posted April 11, 2014

In a new large review of observational studies, an international team of researchers uncovered a reduction in the risk of premature death in association with the use of vitamin D3 supplements.

Read more about this research below.

Vitamin D supplementation is known to benefit conditions associated with the skeletal system such as rickets, fractures and falls, as well as a range of diseases including multiple sclerosis, autoimmune disorders, infections, cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. Non-skeletal benefits of vitamin D supplementation are still currently being debated in many cases.

The review included 73 observational population studies that reported vitamin D serum levels and the cause of death among 849,412 men and women over a follow up period up to 29 years.

When comparing adults with the lowest one-third of vitamin D levels to those in the highest third, subjects had a 35% higher risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease or any cause over the follow-up period. Adults with the lowest levels also had a 30% greater risk of non-vascular, non-cancer death, and a 14% higher risk of death from cancer.

Evidence from these observational studies found significant inverse associations between serum vitamin D levels and risks of death from cardiovascular disease, lymphoma, upper digestive tract cancer, and respiratory diseases. In addition, when the form of vitamin D supplementation was taken into account, vitamin D3 significantly reduced all-cause mortality by 11%. Vitamin D2, on the other hand, did not appear to have any significant effect on mortality.

Researchers noted that further studies should be done to determine the optimal dose and duration of supplementation and to further confirm whether vitamin D3 affects the mortality risk differently than vitamin D2.

Rajiv Chowdhury et al.  Vitamin D and risk of cause specific death: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational cohort and randomised intervention studies. BMJ 2014;348:g1903 doi: 10.1136/bmj.g1903 (Published 1 April 2014).

April 9, 2014,  USANA Health Sciences

Your Road to Realized Dreams Begins with a “Yes”

Originally posted April 9, 2014

Deanna and Dave Waters: Build your business while traveling or from the comfort of your home

If you have a bigger vision for your life than what you are presently experiencing, this message is for you.   If you understand the power and importance of developing multiple streams of income, you’ll find major ideas to transform and enrich your life in amazing ways.

Whatever your age or gender, whatever your challenges, whatever the opportunities placed in front of you, the answer to whether you can be more successful is “yes”.  You can overcome obstacles, learn new skills, be more productive, help more people, and enjoy the thrill of accomplishing more than you ever dreamed possible.  Yes, you can take the ceiling off your dreams, andyou can start today!

You may be a successful business person or professional, a trades person, a store owner, a university student, a caregiver, an employee wanting to move ahead in a bigger way, a retiree, a young adult just starting your career, or a parent who would like to work from home in order to spend more time with your children.

Success comes with being “on purpose” with a positive attitude and the belief that you are worthy and capable of achieving more, being more, having more and giving more.

You can make excuses, or you can make a difference.   So, no more excuses! You can choose to see the negative in a situation or you can choose to see an opportunity to learn and to benefit in some way.  You can waste precious time, or you can sacrifice for greater rewards.  It’s your choice.

When an insurance agent introduced my husband and I to referral marketing and the direct sales industry in nutritional science, we were both suffering with health issues, which led us to exploring natural products to feel and look better.  We especially appreciated the dedication to scientific research and development at the company we eventually chose.  The business plan was revolutionary, so the decision to move forward in a dynamic way was absolute.

Also, the luxury of having a successful home based business was mandatory. We were tired of working within the confines of set salaries, answering to bosses, patching up rusted cars, working long hours away from one another, and wishing we could do more for our daughters and others.  

Can you relate to some of these frustrations?  How serious are you about making positive changes in your life?  Are you ready to experience a whole new world of time and financial freedom where you can truly contribute to the lives of others?

All of this can be accomplished in the small pockets of time sprinkled throughout your day.  Eventually, you might even choose to work from home full time (or while traveling or at the beach).

As we share some of what we have learned on this incredible journey, we hope the content will inspire and help you to adapt it for your own personality and circumstances to reach your goals.  The learning never stops, which makes this adventure so wonderfully rewarding.  

Make a decision today to say “yes” to entrepreneurial opportunities, multiple streams of income and an exciting new way of life.  You can do it!

Sochi Olympics Inspire us to be Optimistic and Determined Whatever We Face

Originally posted February 16, 2014

Olympians around the world have battled against depression, physical challenges, doubts and fears, coming out the victors no matter what their scores at the Olympics in Sochi.  Some of them risk permanent injury – even death – to win medals and to win fans.  They make it look easy, to spin and turn high in the air on the way down a mountain, or to simply jump on a bobsled and hurtle down the run.

I had an opportunity to take the Olympic bobsled run when I attended a meeting in the Salt Lake City area.  On the drive up the mountain, I started to second guess myself about the wisdom of taking such a risk.  I had to sign a form saying I wouldn’t sue the organization should I break my neck, back or even be killed.  However, I had committed myself to do this with friends, John and Susanne Cunningham.  I also felt more assured, knowing the driver would be an Olympian.  So I put on the helmet, scrambled into the bobsled and held on for my very life during the 52 seconds it took to be thrown side to side, at five times the weight of gravity for what seemed an eternity before we came to a stop.  I have a new respect for Olympic bobsledders.  It may be fun to explain the experience now,  but you can be sure  I’ve struck such a ride off my bucket list!

Sports psychologists are in constant demand for athletes who compete at the highest levels.  The mind controls our bodies in amazing ways.   When we allow doubts and fears to linger even for seconds, the cells, muscles and organs of our bodies respond accordingly.  I find that amazing, so I check my thoughts and attitudes throughout the day, aware that a positive attitude and response to events, will help me to perform at my very best, whatever I am doing.

Watching the Olympic events, you see the coaches speaking positively to the athletes just before they perform.  Even the crowd’s response can energize athletes to believe in themselves enough to accomplish more than they might have otherwise.

The question then, is how do we receive that kind of encouragement in our ordinary walk of life, whether at home, the office, while shopping, playing with the kids, or serving in the community?  The Olympics provide an opportunity to check our mindset constantly and to cheer on people in our lives wherever we go.

Just this past week, my Internet Coach, Mia Davies, shared her transformation as she experienced a new understanding of God’s love for her.  That revelation in turn has given her a greater desire to share God’s love with others as well.   Imagine what a difference that would make to athletes, knowing God loves them unconditionally.   imagine what a difference that makes to me and to you as well, and then how we can spread the love wherever we go.   I decided to follow Mia’s example yesterday, and it was actually delightful to see how my positive thinking and encouragement could have a wonderful impact on others.

So, I challenge you to have a positive, God-filled, Olympian kind of day, and spread that on to whoever you meet in the coming days.  I’d love to hear how you’ve been able to encourage someone else lately, or how someone made all the difference in your day.

Promote #BetterHealth with “Healthies”

Originally Posted July 25, 2015

“Healthies” on social media are becoming an epidemic.  Taking photos of oneself enjoying physical exercise, running, jogging, cycling, swimming, marathons, gym programs, all constitute the new way to promote health and wellness.

You’ll notice more photos of people taking ‘healthies” to show themselves on the spot, staying strong.  I had another runner take this shot of me participating in a 10K.

Over 50% of people in the U.S. and Canada are seriously overweight or obese.  And even though recent science is showing that hormone imbalance may cause people to favor carbs, lack of regular exercise also factors in.  It’s more difficult to be energized to exercise when you feel heavy and sluggish.  No doubt you are less likely to take a “healthie” of yourself flopped on a sofa, splurging on a banana split.

The other challenge is choice of food and drink.  Fast foods, bad fats, too much sugar, shouldn’t be featured in a Facebook “healthie” shot!  Stick to salads, fruit, grains and gluten-free photos. It’s not a bad idea to include “healthies” of you with a great nutritional drink, or high-science supplements.  This gets your audience thinking about the importance of adding value and filling in the gaps in their diets.

In fact, if you are wondering how your health stacks up, take this free Health Assessment and check in with me with your questions.  Are you ready to take healthier photos of yourself in the future?

Five Pillars to Create the Life You Really Want: Art Alexander

Originally posted May 26, 2014

Are you living by chance or by choice?  Have you really thought about what you want? 

This is the challenge given to us by Art Alexander, a motivational speaker and leader with our city’s Chamber of Commerce.

“If you don’t create the life you really want, someone will create something else for you that may not be what you would choose.” says Art.  “It takes time, requires some thought and then you have to take action. You can start today!”

We are always inspired by Art’s talks and so we asked him for the five top pillars he would look to as priorities for being empowered.

1.  Look on the Inside.

It all starts in the mind, with your thoughts.  What is the motivation to create more for your life and for those around you?

Is there a burning desire that keeps you awake at night or gets you up in the morning that you just can’t keep quiet about?  When the motivation and your WHY is big enough, you’ll find the way to make it happen.

People are attracted to YOU, the real you, not just your outer appearance (don’t neglect this part either) and not just to your products.

One question you could ask yourself in developing this pillar is, are you the kind of person that others want to be around?  Would you want to be around YOU? Are you an energy stealer, a dream crusher or a Negative Nelly? Or on the other side, do you bring energy to the table, helping others around you to live up to their full potential? Do you have a positive outlook? 

“They need to feel your fire, so fill yourself up  to over flowing with good positive stuff” Art suggests.  “ If you really want to grow, listen to good music, read good books, attend classes, take in webinars and seminars.  Ask yourself, when is the last time you did any of the above? Would your answer inspire others to be their best?”

Keep at it.  Bring something else to the table.  When you do more than what you are paid for, eventually you will be paid more than what you actually do.

2.    Look for ways to let your life be LARGER than just for yourself. 

Where do you want to make a difference?  Living larger than yourself is about making good things happen for your family, friends and the community.  There is something that happens to you when you take the focus off of you and place it on other people and causes.

Art suggests that you go on a personal retreat periodically where there are no phones, televisions or email, so that you focus and get perspective on the areas that are most important.  The retreat may be for a few hours, an overnight stay or a couple of days, but by taking the time to examine yourself deep down inside and even aloud to others, you can become inspired to make big things happen.

3.    Look to live at least 70% or more in the “green light”.

Using the stop light analogy, spend most of your time in the green light, where your passion and talents are the strongest, doing what you enjoy most and where people say you excel.

There will be another 20% of activities in the amber light, where you don’t mind doing them but they aren’t a priority.   Then there are those 10% that just have to get done but you don’t enjoy doing them.

For some of you, it could be the paper work where you are fortunate enough to have people around you to do it.  If not, get it out of the way first thing in the morning, so that you are free to concentrate on your strengths.  It’s like taking that cough syrup that tastes bad, but it is good for you, so why wait?

We have all heard people say, “I hate my job but I only have 5-10 years to retire and then I can get a pension.” If that is you, take charge and make a change.  Live longer and happier in the green light for yourself and those around you.

4.    Look to run with those who want to run with you.

The exciting part about referral marketing is that in building a team, you get to choose the people you want to run with.  Now if you were to take three minutes to write down five people that you would want to work with in building a business, who would they be?  Ready. Set. Go. Start writing!

A.__________________
B.__________________
C.__________________
D.__________________
E.__________________

Now ask yourself why these people and what qualities do you admire in them?  Align yourself with people who encourage you, who are honest with you, who challenge you, who watch your back and who help you grow.  Be that kind of person for them as well.

Whether it is a team, or a mastermind group from different sectors, the goal is to help one another solve problems, keep one another accountable and to move forward in a positive way both professionally and personally.

Look for ways to Pay It Forward.  There is a universal Law out there, much like gravity exists worldwide, that talks about tithing or giving, not just in a religious way but as a principle that works in every country.

As you give, you shall receive.  Help others with their businesses, whether they are on your team or not.

Volunteer to help those who are less fortunate than you, or to encourage those who are raising money for a worthy cause.  You show by your actions that you appreciate what others have done for you, and now it is your privilege to pass that on to others.

Be careful about saying, “Oh if I was a millionaire and had their money I would give away a hundred thousand dollars too.“  Yet I have seen people that cannot give 10 cents from the dollar because they cannot see ahead. They are worried and live in fear, which will affect their business” Art notes.  “The key is don’t wait until you have a million dollars – start giving financially as well as with your time and talents where you are!“

“Paying it forward, may or may not result in immediate financial rewards,’ says Art,  “but it surely will give you a sense of satisfaction and make a substantial difference to those you touch.”

Follow Art’s Five Pillars and see the difference in your life and in your business!