The Health Benefits of Far Infrared Therapy

The Health Benefits of Far Infrared Therapy

Far Infrared therapy (FIR) involves the use of Far Infrared rays to gently heal, soothe, stimulate and detox the physical body, as well as the mind.

Far Infrared Rays are invisible waves of energy that have the ability to penetrate all layers of the human physical body, penetrating into the inner-most regions of the tissues, muscles and bone.



An ancient technique, Far Infrared Therapy uses these waves, or rays, of energy to slightly elevate the surface temperature of the body. When we slightly induce a very small temperature increase, we can enhance our body’s functioning on multiple levels. Our hands, bodies and the sun emit FIR energy at all times. In Ancient China, palm healing was used to pass these infrared rays from one person to another.

In modern times, it is commonly referred to as Reiki. The Yogis of Ancient India also used FIR in palm healing, and particularly found it useful to place palms over the eyes in the case of eye dryness or strain. Many types of thermal healing have been used in ancient civilizations including Japan, China, India, the Americas, Northern Europe and ancient Rome.



Far Infrared Health Benefits

I am a huge proponent of using Far Infrared as an aid in detoxification. In my practice, I have found that this type of therapy may help in fat loss, chronic fatigue [1], water retention, skin disorders, as well as in the elimination heavy metals, poisons, and carcinogenic material from our bodies.

Whenever we process food, and particularly when we have processed unhealthy food or meats, our bodies create lactic acids and free fatty acids, as well as excess sodium and uric acid. In my patients who have skin problems, I have often found that this type of therapy can help clean the liver and kidneys, instead of overworking the skin in processing our toxins out through the dermis.

Far Infrared therapy very gently increases blood flow [2] by expanding the capillaries that carry blood. It also increases oxygenation and regeneration of the blood, deeply detoxifying it for the improved functioning of all of the major organs in the body, which depend on blood for energy. This detoxification is on the deepest level, allowing hidden toxins in the blood and tissue to be dissolved or immobilized.

Through the subtle heating, Far Infrared boosts our immune system, increasing the amount of white blood cells and killer T-cells. It is an excellent therapy for promoting healing, reducing muscle soreness, muscle spasms and relief for rheumatoid arthritis [3]. Research by NASA has shown that far infrared on the cardiovascular systemhttp://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=106&t=32685 was a great way of keeping astronauts hearts’ in optimal condition.

Far Infrared can also increase the processing enzyme activity in our digestive tract, as well as boost metabolism http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=119&t=33240. An hour of this therapy can burn up to 900 calories, showing excellent results in breaking down trapped fat, waste, cellulitehttp://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=33&t=34057 and other forms of toxic substances. The rejuvenating effects of Far Infrared has been shown to help heal scar tissue such as burn scars, acne scars http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=33&t=33288 and other forms of dermatological scarring.

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The sweating quality that comes from Far Infrared Therapy truly helps us detox from the enormous levels of pollution in modern times. It also is crucial for discomfort relief and the reduction of redness and swelling. Clinical studies done in both the United States, and in Japan, found, “Much of the stiffness, aches and soreness that comes with aging is reduced or eliminated” and, “Whole body far infrared heat relieved pain from burns and decreased healing time with less scarring.”

Heart studies done by The Mayo Clinic and the Journal of the American College of Cardiology [4] found that infrared sauna therapy significantly improved blood vessel functioning in high-cholesterol, diabetes and smoking patients. The therapy also was found to increase circulation, lower blood pressure, lower blood sugar, and help in weight loss.



For home use I recommend the TheraSauna http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/far-infrared-sauna-one.html?a_aid=141637&a_bid=1b381f52, based on the technology and traditions of Far Infrared Therapy. Investing in a TheraSauna is investment in your long-term health and well being. Dr. Groups Organic Detox Foot Padshttp://www.globalhealingcenter.com/cleansing/detox-foot-pads.html?a_aid=141637&a_bid=69bdf150 also contain amethyst http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=34366 and tourmaline gemstones for the benefit of releasing far infrared rays to assist in the detoxification process.

– Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM



References:

1. Masuda A, Kihara T, Fukudome T, Shinsato T, Minagoe S, Tei C. The effects of repeated thermal therapy for two patients with chronic fatigue syndromehttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=historysearch&querykey=51. J Psychosom Res. 2005 Apr;58(4):383-7.

2. Lin CC, Chang CF, Lai MY, Chen TW, Lee PC, Yang WC. Far-infrared therapy: a novel treatment to improve access blood flow and unassisted patency of arteriovenous fistula in hemodialysis patients http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=historysearch&querykey=53. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2007 Mar;18(3):985-92. Epub 2007 Jan 31.

3. Fredrikus G. J. Oosterveld, Johannes J. Rasker, Mark Floors, Robert Landkroon, Bob van Rennes, Jan Zwijnenberg, Mart A. F. J. van de Laar, Gerard J. Koel. Infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10067-008-0977-y. Clinical Rheumatology. 2009 January 01. vol. 28 issue 1, pages 29-34 doi10.1007/s10067-008-0977-y.

4. Kihara T, Biro S, Imamura M, et al. Repeated sauna treatment improves vascular endothelial and cardiac function in patients with chronic heart failurehttp://content.onlinejacc.org/article.aspx?articleid=1127811&issueno=5. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2002 March. 39(5):754-759. doi:10.1016/S0735-1097(01)01824-1.

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Benefits of Far-Infrared Saunas

Benefits of Far-Infrared Saunas

Far-infrared heat is a wavelength of light that is measured at 5.6 to 1000 microns. The sun’s rays are comprised of 80% of far-infrared heat. It is what penetrates your skin when you’re in sunlight and you stop feeling in shaded areas. It’s said to be a healing wavelength and is suggested to aid in detoxification.



Benefits of Far Infrared Saunas

- Far infrared saunas heat frequency matches the body’s heat
- It’s absorbed more quickly
- It penetrates more deeply into the body, as far as 1.5 to 3 inches into the tissue

Infrared heat is easily absorbed by the body, and it is emitted by the body as well. The human body’s optimal light frequency for infrared is 9.4 which is food for absorption and emission. When frequencies of infrared match the frequency of water in the body’s cell, it’s said that this forces toxins out of the cells, into the bloodstream where they are carried off to be expelled through urine, sweat and feces.

by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

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The Health Benefits of Invertase

The Health Benefits of Invertase

Invertase is a carbohydrate-digesting enzyme that splits sucrose (common table sugar) into its component parts, glucose and fructose. It is generally derived from a beneficial strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and then purified to be used either by itself or as a part of a multi-enzyme formula. Combined with other carbohydrates, it enhances the overall digestion of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates.

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Invertase’s ability to break down (hydrolyze) the bond between fructose and glucose makes it a vital part of the digestion of complex sugars into blood sugar (glucose) which can be used as a ready fuel source by the body. It is also known as beta-fructofuranosidase and may be listed under this name on some product labels and scientific literature.



Invertase is one of the essential enzymes nature uses to help us digest sugars. Commonly found in bee pollen and yeast sources, invertase plays a key role not only in digestive processes, but also, and perhaps more importantly, in overall human disease prevention, physical rejuvenation and anti-ageing processes. As we age, we have less access to this natural enzyme, resulting in a reduced ability to extract the vital nutrients from the food we eat. It can also slow our digestive process, as sugars and starches are such a big part of most American diets. And, while some forms of sugar and carbohydrates are good for the body, they cannot be absorbed or digested well without the help of the invertase enzyme.

It is also created naturally by bees, who use its ability to hydrolyze the sugars in raw nectar to create the delicious honey that we eat. Honeybees produce massive amounts of the enzyme as it breaks the bond between glucose and fructose, adding hydrogen and hydroxide. In contrast to many other enzymes, invertase has the distinct ability to remain active within a wide range of pH levels.

The Health Benefits of Invertase

1. Natural Immune Booster

Enzymes found in honey http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=33343, such as invertase have been studied for their metabolic activity. Studies done on asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) found that high invertase activity found in the top portion of asparagus spears might be related to the high metabolism occurring in this portion.

2. Antioxidant Support

Invertase has many antioxidant http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32801 properties, and it is a powerful agent against harmful organisms. These two aspects allow it to aid in the defense against of bacterial infestations and gut fermentation due to oxidation. In Ancient India, raw honey was often used in patients with a weak heart. It was known to kill off bacteria and reduce intestinal ailments http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=34281. It was also used for its hygroscopic (moisture-retaining) properties, and its ability to pull moisture out of the body, causing bacterial infestations to subside. Invertase is one of these key elements of the enzymatic support found in honey.

3. Ulcers

Because invertase creates pre-digested simple sugars, it helps reduce stomach toxicity, in that sugars do not remain in the stomach long enough to create toxic fermentation. Fermentation is what causes bacteria and disease to build up in the digestive tract. In this way, invertase helps protect the body from ulcers, as well as many other digestive diseases.

4. Naturally Toxic to Harmful Organisms

Again, in honey, enzymes such as invertase show the ability to turn glucose into natural hydrogen peroxide.

5. Natural Respiratory Support

Enzymes including invertase have been shown to help reduce colds, flu http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=32482 and other respiratory infections. One European study on 18,000 patients found that honey drastically helped upper respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, asthma and allergies.

6. Cancer Support

Some medicinal studies also show that the invertase enzyme may exhibit some chemotherapeutic properties. Research done in Australia and Japan have found that the enzymes in honey helped support patients with advanced cases of both bone and stomach cancer. In some cases, the cancers even went into regression. Currently, enzyme therapy is being used as a vital component of many natural cancer therapies. European researchers reported, “Studies showed that enzyme therapy can reduce the adverse effects caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=91. There is also evidence that, in some types of tumours, survival may be prolonged and that the beneficial effect of systemic enzyme therapy seems to be based on its potential to reduce redness and swelling.”



How to Read the Units of Measurement for Invertase

Carbohydrases such as invertase measure the hydrolysis of carbohydrates. One SU (Sumner Unit Invertase/Sucrase) is the FCC assay of measurement, whereby one Sumner Unit is the quantity of enzyme that will convert 1 mg of sucrose to glucose and fructose in 5 minutes. The FCC notation stands for Foods Chemical Codex, and is a division of USP (United States Pharmacopeia). It sets standards for ingredients. In the case of enzymes, FCC is a standard assay used to accurately determine the activity of enzymes. The current compendium is FCC VI

Where Can I Find The Best Source of Invertase?

The product VeganZyme™ contains a 100% vegan form of Invertase produced by the natural fermentation process of Saccharomyces cerevisae. It comes from all vegetarian, non-GMO sources, is kosher certified, gluten free, contains no animal product and is completely suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

VeganZyme™ http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=30708 is the most advanced full-spectrum systemic and digestive enzyme formula in the world and is free from fillers and toxic compounds. This formula contains digestive enzymes which help digest fats (lipids), sugars, proteins, carbohydrates, gluten, fruits and vegetables, cereals, legumes, bran, nuts and seeds, soy, dairy and all other food sources.

VeganZyme™ may also be used as a systemic enzyme blend to break down excess mucus, fibrin, various toxins, allergens, as well as excess clotting factors throughout your body.

by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

1. Hubert Schiweck, Margaret Clarke, Gunter Pollach. Sugarhttp://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14356007.a25_345.pub2/abstract;jsessionid=3D27A377C7BB396B2C879D45B8ECAF25.d02t03. Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 2007 April 15. DOI: 10.1002/14356007.a25_345.pub2.

2. Kelly Joyce Neff. The healing power of honey: from burns to weak bones, raw honey can help http://www.naturalnews.com/021506.html. Natural News. 2007 January 26.

3. N. Benkeblia, N. Yoshida, Y. Ooi, T. Nagamine, S. Onodera, N. Shiomi. Variations of carbohydrate content and invertase activity in green and white asparagus spears- effects of spear length and portion http://www.pubhort.org/actahort/books/776/776_59.htm. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 776:459-464.

4. Dale Kiefer. Promoting optimal nutrition with digestive enzymes http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2008/jan2008_report_digestiveEnzymes_01.htm. Life Extension Magazine. 2008 January.



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What are Carotenoids? – 5 Health Benefits

What are Carotenoids? – 5 Health Benefits

Distinguished by their orange, yellow, and red pigments, carotenoids are found in many plants, algae, and bacteria. Carotenoids act as antioxidants within the body, protecting against cellular damage, the effects of aging http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=113&t=33127, and even some chronic diseases. These beneficial compounds cannot be synthesized by humans or animals, diet is the only way to get them. There are well over 600 known carotenoids, with beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and astaxanthin being the most common.



Why Are Carotenoids Important?

As antioxidants, carotenoids are helpful for protecting vision and combating cellular damage. [1] Recent studies have also identified carotenoids as paramount supporters for the cardiovascular system http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=106&t=32685 and male reproductive health. Lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes (among other fruits and vegetables), has even been linked to keeping the liver, prostate, breast, colon, and lungs healthy. [2]

5 Health Benefits of Consuming Carotenoids

Carotenoids have an immense value for human health, and many people are seeking ways to incorporate these health-brimming compounds into their diet. Nutritionists, physicians, and health organizations all recommend a diet high in antioxidants http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33126, including those that are derived from carotenoids. Here are 5 of the most pronounced benefits of carotenoids.

1. Supports Eye Health

Do you remember adults telling you as a child that carrots were good for your eyes? As it turns out, this statement is founded in scientific truth. Carrots are an excellent source of carotenoids, including retinol and pro-vitamin A, both of which have therapeutic value for degenerative diseases of the retina. [3]



2. Cardiovascular Health

Population-based studies have demonstrated that carotenoids are effective for supporting cardiovascular health. Other nutrients that work together with carotenoids for protecting heart health include glutathione, vitamin E, and vitamin C http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32133. These findings have been echoed in numerous studies. [4]

3. Possible Anti-Tumor Properties?

It would be premature and overzealous to say that carotenoids prevent cancer, but it is known that carotenoids contain acetylenics, a group of metabolites known for combating tumor development. They also have action against harmful organisms and support the immune system http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=33338. The combination of these properties have been so effective for fighting bacteria and immune-related infections that researchers are exploring their cytotoxic effects on multiple types of cancer. [5]

4. Male Fertility

The antioxidant effect of carotenoids may protect sperm health, according a recent 2013 study. This research found that carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin E, seleniumhttp://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33532, glutathione, N-acetylcysteine, and zinc notably improved the participants’ chances of becoming pregnant. [6] These nutrients can be accessed easily with a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

5. Skin Health

Studies have reported that the carotenoids beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin protect skin, tissue, and cells from environmental toxins and disease. Recent research has demonstrated that non-provitamin A carotenoids, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin, also have protective benefits for the skin. [7] To best support skin health, experts recommend vitamin A carotenoids from fresh vegetables and colorful fruits.

Maximize Your Carotenoid Intake

Vitamin A is considered a fat-soluble nutrient, and consuming foods containing vitamin A with fat (like grass-fed butter, coconut oilhttp://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=32162, or olive oil) increases its bioavailability. Chopping and cooking the vegetables also enhances nutrient uptake, further increasing the chances your body will use the compounds efficiently.

Best Sources of Carotenoids

Carotenoids are found in orange, yellow, and red fruits and vegetables, like pumpkin, carrots, and tomatoes http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=33979. For beta-carotene, carrots and pumpkins are forefront; however, spinach, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and dandelion greens http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=33570 also represent excellent sources.



Tomatoes are renowned for their lycopene content, and often recommended as a health-fortifying food. You may be surprised to learn that watermelon and grapefruit are also excellent sources of lycopene. Dark, green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale, contain high quantities of lutein and zeaxanthin. If you’re not following a vegan or vegetarian diet http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=31926, liver and eggs are two of the most bioavailable animal sources of these beneficial nutrients. [8]

What are your favorite carotenoid-rich vegetables and fruits? Leave us a comment below to let us know!

by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

1. Armstrong GA, Hearst JE. Carotenoids 2: Genetics and molecular biology of carotenoid pigment biosynthesis http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8641556. FASEB J. 1996 Feb;10(2):228-37.

2. Trejo-Solís C, Pedraza-Chaverrí J, Torres-Ramos M, Jiménez-Farfán D, Cruz Salgado A, Serrano-García N, Osorio-Rico L, Sotelo J. Multiple molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of lycopene in cancer inhibition http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23970935. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:705121. doi: 10.1155/2013/705121.

3. Perusek L, Maeda T. Vitamin A derivatives as treatment options for retinal degenerative diseases http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23857173. Nutrients. 2013 Jul 12;5(7):2646-66. doi: 10.3390/nu5072646.

4. Wang Y, Chun OK, Song WO. Plasma and dietary antioxidant status as cardiovascular disease risk factors: a review of human studieshttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23912327. Nutrients. 2013 Jul 31;5(8):2969-3004. doi: 10.3390/nu5082969.

5. Kuklev DV, Domb AJ, Dembitsky VM. Bioactive acetylenic metabolites http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23871125. Phytomedicine. 2013 Oct 15;20(13):1145-59. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2013.06.009.

6. Mora-Esteves C, Shin D. Nutrient supplementation: improving male fertility fourfold http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23775385. Semin Reprod Med. 2013 Jul;31(4):293-300. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1345277.

7. Sayo T, Sugiyama Y, Inoue S. Lutein, a nonprovitamin A, activates the retinoic acid receptor to induce HAS3-dependent hyaluronan synthesis in keratinocyteshttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23748778. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2013;77(6):1282-6.

8. Abdel-Aal el-SM, Akhtar H, Zaheer K, Ali R. Dietary sources of lutein and zeaxanthin carotenoids and their role in eye health http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23571649. Nutrients. 2013 Apr 9;5(4):1169-85. doi: 10.3390/nu5041169.



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