June 24, 2004

DHEA & SUBLINGUAL B TRIO BACK IN STOCK

Just a reminder that our DHEA and Sublingual B trio are back in stock, and our test results for these production runs have been posted. To order: Products Catalog

ACETYL-L-CARNITINE – NOW IN STOCK!!!

Anti-aging and improved cognitive functions!! What more can a furry kat ask for?!?!?

Many of our members pulled at our kat whiskers to offer Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) since reading the November 2003 Reader’s Digest Magazine article entitled “The End of Aging – Breakthrough Science May Keep Us All From Growing Old”.

This article explored the research of noted biochemist and professor at University of California at Berkeley, Dr. Bruce Ames (and a team of scientists, who found that ALC and Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), combined, provide very powerful antioxidant capabilities (good-bye free radicals!).

Numerous studies have shown that ALC reverse the age-related decline in mitochondria (our energy producing units), increase fatty acid oxidation and boost general metabolic activity.

In the treatment of Alzheimer’s, it has been found to slow the rate of disease progression, improve memory and cognitive functions. AND studies indicate that the elderly, with similar mental impairment symptons and even depression, can also benefit from ALC.

To order, go to: Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Finally, …PSSST…all you Guido lovers out there know that this kat means quality! Well, our lab tests came back for ALC and we are proud to say they were very positive!^..^

If you interested in seeing this test result (and others), click here to link to our Quality Assurance Program web page: Quality Lab Testing

VITAMINS INCREASE CHOLESTEROL? THE REST OF THE STORY

As promised, I am following up on a recent study, led by the New York University School of Medicine, which suggested that some antioxidants such as E, C, and beta carotene, could raise the production of bad cholesterol (LDL -- which transports cholesterol into artery walls).

Headlines in early May suggested that “antioxidants raise cholesterol.” Take a look for context: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/3673365.stm

Writing in the “Journal of Clinical Investigation,” the researchers say their findings mean they cannot recommend that people use the vitamins.

These reports very much made my fur stand up, so I did some investigating. Here’s the scoop…

The goal of the study was specifically aimed at studying a recently-discovered new “pathway” that degrades a critical protein of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol). The study suggests vitamin E nourishes this LDL protein, thereby increasing LDL levels.

To put a little context around this study, here are some important notes:

The study was only an animal study (and did not make recommendations about taking or not taking antioxidants).
Vitamin E was the only antioxidant used in the study, yet extrapolations are being made vis-à-vis all antioxidants.
The body uses antioxidants, such as vitamin E, to neutralize the lipid perioxidation process (“lipid peroxidation” is simply the process of free radicals stealing electrons from fats in our cell membranes, thus damaging our cells and increasing free radical production even more). Lowering antioxidants in the body could leave cells defenseless against peroxidation-induced damage.
Antioxidants in the blood have been shown to reduce oxidation of LDL (a good thing). You see, oxidized LDL is believed to be a major villain in atherosclerosis. Lowering vitamin E (and other antioxidant) levels could actually support more LDL -- and more LDL oxidation (not so good).

In this kat’s world, there are too many unanswered questions and no justification for reducing dietary intake of vitamin E (or other antioxidants).

Our discussion about cholesterol doesn’t end here. Our Co-op’s favorite pharmacist, Mike Ciell, has written an interesting article on “lipid theory” and heart health.

We will publish his article soon, so stay tuned fair members for an interesting take on cholesterol!

HEALTH IN THE NEWS

Depression linked to Parkinson disease & homocysteine levels: http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/505543/
High rates of kidney disease in heart disease patients: http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/505543/
New tests for nut allergens: http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/505572/
Calcium can reduce risk of large colon polyps: http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/505535/
Vitamin C can protect against rheumatoid arthritis: http://www.newswise.com/p/articles/view/505465/
What’s so funny? (Dana Foundation newsletter – page 5): http://www.dana.org/articles/bwn_0404.pdf

FAVORITE PETS

Check out our new pet shots (we need more, as always!): Favorite Pets

CO-OP CHATTER – LIFELONG BACHELOR TO WED FINALLY

Well, the proverbial “cat is out of the bag” in West Palm Beach -- where Stephen is known for having many (many) lady friends. Stephen finally proposed to Kelly (as part of a most clever surprise, complete with a Victoria’s Secret box filled with rose petals and a very unexpected ring).

Yawn. Kats find all the fuss over an engagement quite baffling. Since humans find the ritual so much more interesting, you may wish to congratulate life-long bachelor, Stephen, with a note to: stephen@ourhealthcoop.com.

STEPHEN’S FIANCEE, KELLY WAGNER, CROWNED MS. PETITE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL

More gossipy news. On May 30, 2004, Kelly was crowned Ms. Petite Florida International 2004.

The Ms. Petite Pageant gives petite woman (under 5’6”) the opportunity to showcase their talent and wit. Yep, and no one calls them “short” at this event either.

Kelly heads to Houston to represent Florida at the Ms. Petite International Pageant on July 31, 2004.

Now, if she could just find a way to plug her most favorite feline friend, I might become famous after all!

Now you’re yawning? Never mind then. Kats certainly know how to stalk off in style.

By the way, since we have so many big opinions out there, Kelly needs ideas for her costume, which must truly represent Florida (ideas range from a Miami Dolphins theme to something evocative of the sea).

Feel free to cast your vote with Teri (who loves to hear from all of you anyway!) at teri@ourhealthcoop.com.

My next newsletter will cover new products that we’ll be introducing very shortly (Milk Thistle, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Calcium Citrate, Guggul Plus, & Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids)! Stay tuned for timelines.

Now it’s time to scat! ^..^

Still purringly yours,

Guido

Guido Housemouser (The Enforcer) ^..^
Chief Kat and Community Manager
Our Health Co-op
931 Village Blvd, Suite 905-480
West Palm Beach FL 33409

“Making Health Affordable Together”