You can get this for free at the store

When you go to the store, the first thing you get is the grocery cart.  How many people have put their hands on the cart?  Too many to count.  How many germs, bacteria, and other things we don't want to think about are on the handle of that cart? 

We don't want to be paranoid.  After all our bodies are made to fight off some germs and bacteria.  But there is overload.  The stress of the holidays, our diet isn't what it usually is, and this weather has been out of the norm as well.  This has a negative affect on our bodies. 

What can you do?  Have your immune system in balance.  How can you do that?  First look at Interferon.  Interferon are the good cells or "soldiers" in the immune system.  They defend the healthy cells and destroy viruses, bacteria, parasites or tumor cells.

How can you improve the production of Interferon?  Start with Nutriferon.  We know that only one thing isn't the cure all.  So for the best way to have the most optimal way to get your immune system in balance, go here.

So what you get at the store for free?  The unseen aliens that reduce the production of Interferon.

I can help you to have the star of immune systems.  Email me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net.

Mama Bear Productions provides remarkable customer service.

Find out what people are saying.  Click here.

Be happy, be well.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Be as happy as Frosty the Snowman

 

 



Ahh the holidays. Friend or foe?  We can enjoy friends and family but there are things that deter us from having fun.  Food, alcohol, and overloaded schedules.  These three things put the body in a stressful state.  In fact, unfortunately, the suicide rate is the highest during the holidays.

How can you "Be Happy, Don't Worry"?  First go to this article and view the foods for a healthy mind http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-foods-that-promote-brain-health.html?page=2 .

Can't get all that food in one day?  Looking for something simple like a Wellness Pack?  Go here.  Not sure which one is right for you?  Call me at 810-813-3308, between 9 am and 8 pm ET Tuesday and Wednesday, and 9 am - 3 pm ET Monday, Thursday, and Friday.  Or email me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net.  I'm here to help.

Also, check out pre holiday gifts here.

Together we can ensure your holidays are happy, healthy, and start the new year feeling just that way too.

Many blessings to you and yours this holiday season.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

I came across an interesting article in NUTRA Ingredients-USA.com (November 27, 2012 edition) the other day.

You've probably seen the Sensa ads. You just shake these "magic" crystals on your food and the pounds melt away. And, by the way, it's not salads they are shaking the crystals on. It's pizza, hamburgers, French fries and the like.

The "magic" crystals are made from maltodextrin (a carbohydrate derived from starch), tricalcium phosphate, natural and artificial flavors, soy and milk ingredients. The manufacturer claims that these crystals suppress appetite and lead to weight loss.

Supposedly, these claims are supported by two clinical studies showing, for example, that people using the Sensa crystals lost an average of 30 pounds over six months while the control group only lost two.

Now if you think these claims sound too good to be true, you aren't alone. California District attorneys filed a false advertising lawsuit against the manufacturer of Sensa crystals, and last week the manufacturer agreed to settle and pay $800,000 in civil penalties and $105,000 in restitution to California consumers.

According to NUTRA-Ingredients-USA-com, it turns out that neither of the clinical studies was good enough to be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

And, the lead researcher for one of the studies admitted in a deposition that she had no scientific training and was not qualified to conduct a nutrition intervention study.

So another great sounding ad bites the dust. There is no magic formula or magic ingredient that will just make the pounds melt away. The physiological equation has not changed. Weight loss occurs when calories out exceed calories in. And permanent weight loss requires lifestyle changes.

The weight loss industry is rife with grand claims and hype. Just remember the old saying if it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't.*

What's important to you when deciding on a weight loss program?  Simple?  Support?  Quality of products (no stimulants)?  Price?  If you said yes to any or all of these, contact me at marybeth@mambearproductions.net.  I chose to partner with Shaklee and they share my values and vision.

Mary Beth Potrykus
mamabear.myshaklee.com

 *Thank you Dr. Stephen Chaney for this information.

Shocking news about Dr. Oz

I subscribe to Natural News and I was shocked and VERY disappointed to hear that Dr. Oz has been bought.  Monsanto must have gotten to him and unfortunately the almighty dollar has won.

So after years of preaching about healthy eating, exercise and supplements he now says organic food is an "elitlist" and only for 1% of the American population.  Really?!

I am and SO ARE YOU worth eating organic food.  In fact that is the way God intended food to be.   

You can read more about at http://www.naturalnews.com/038157_Dr_Oz_organic_food_sellout.html

Not sure what to eat, what supplements are right for you?  I'm here.  Contact me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net for a 30 minute complimentary consultation.

Be healthy, be well.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Can what we eat affect our kids?

Genetic information resides in our DNA. 

During conception, we pick up some DNA from our dad & some from our mom, and DNA was what makes us a unique individual. 

Environmental influences can affect our health personally, but did you ever dream that the effects of those environmental influences could be passed on to our kids?

But today we know that environental influences can actually modify our DNA and that those modifications can be passed on to our offspring - a process called epigenetics.

So can what we eat affect our kids?

According to two articles in FASEB Journal, the answer might be yes!

One study female rats were either on a standard rat chow or a "junk-food diet" high in fat and sugar during pregnancy and lactation.  When the weaning rats were then separated from their moms and exposed to a variety of foods, both the male and female offspring showed a marked preference for high fat foods.

The second study female mice were maintained on standard mice chow or a low-protein diet during pregnancy and lactation. 

Their offspring had a lower body weight and less fat surrounding their major organs throughout their life. 

This study not only shows that the diet of the moms influenced the eating behavior and body composition of their offspring, but that this chain in eating behavior was caused by a permanent modification of their DNA. 

Most prenatal nutrition advice is based on what it takes to have a healthy baby - not on what it might take for your child to experience better health through their life. 

My personal opinion is, yes your baby "gets what you get and twice as much".  So if you're thinking about having a baby, start a healthy diet now.  And adding high end supplements (ensuring there isn't any contaminants and they are whole food high end is best) will only increase the chances you will have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, now and in the future. 

Mary Beth

**Thank you Dr. Stephan Chaney for providing this information.

Hunters

Gun hunting season starts November 15th in Michigan.  Right now is bow hunting season.

With that said, are you a hunter or do you know a hunter?  If you do, are they looking for a scent eliminator that isn't toxic? 

If they are, Basic H2 has worked very successful for hunters.  It's just another use of this amazing product.

Here's Ron May's story:  As a user of Shaklee Basic H for nearly 30 years, I have found it to be effective for numerous tasks, not all of which involved cleaning or disinfecting.

On two occasions, my bird dogs were sprayed by skunks while in the field. Basic H is the ONLY solution I have ever found to be just about 100% effective in removing the odor.

Other uses I have found for Basic H include eliminating human odor while deer hunting. When hunting clothes are washed with it, then stored in a plastic bag, human odors are eliminated. It also works on equipment wiped with a mild solution on a sponge, but the most important property Basic H has for the deer hunter is that it completely eliminates human body scent!

As a former Product Specialist for Cabela's Retail, Inc., I have had the opportunity to use many of the so-called scent eliminators on the market today. While many of them do work to some degree, none of them, in my opinion, are as effective as Basic H. I simply use it full strength like a body wash when I shower each morning before going deer hunting. I wash my hair with it each day as well. Just make certain to keep it out of your eyes. In bathing with Basic H over the past 25 years, I have had deer come as close as three feet of me, downwind, without detecting me! My best buck was a magnificent 12-pointer, shot downwind of me at about 40 yards.

Basic H is an absolutely amazing product , and I am surprised that more hunters haven't discovered its many uses for the sportsman.

 

Basic H has been reformulated and is now Basic H2.  It is more concentrated (use half as much). 

 

To view this amazing product and to order, click here.  To view all products, go here.

Be safe and good luck hunting.

Mary Beth

Thyroid..Other options

I find more and more people with thyroid problems.  Why?  Well it all goes back to what we are putting into our bodies.  Super pesticides (which you can find on non-organic food) and fall into the Genetically Modified food category, fast food restaurants, the air we breathe (full of pollutants), and too much bottle water (the plastic bottles have harmful chemicals especially when left in a warm environment).

Iodine deficiency is associated with thyroid disease.  Here is a simple test you can do at home to check your iodine levels:  Take a Q-tip, dip it into a 2% tincture of iodine, and paint the area the size of a silver dollar on your thigh or belly. This will leave a yellowish stain that should disappear in about 24 hours if your iodine levels are normal. If the stain disappears in under 24 hours, it means your body is deficient in iodine and thirstily sucked it up.. If that's the case, keep applying the iodine to different sites, until the stain lasts a full 24 hours.  Not only will you have diagnosed your iodine deficiency, but you will have treated the deficiency and improved your thyroid function. If you're on thyroid medication and you use this treatment, you'll find that you can cut back on the dosage-- or possibly discontinue the drug altogether!  It is always best to communicate with your doctor.  (Thank you Sharon O'Donnell)

Dr. Brouse recommends, for hypothyroidism:  CorEnergy, Alfalfa, Soy Protein (Energizing or Cinch), Vitalizer and Vivix to stabilize.

Other Shaklee supplements that are recommended are Stress Relief Complex and B Complex.  Why these two?  Because they offset the affects of stress which harms our bodies and stress is something that is in our every day lives. 

Dr. Thelma Jones, MD states:  Iodine and Vitamin D Deficiency have been associated with thyroid, breast and ovarian cysts.  However, a word of caution that Iodine should not be used in Hashimoto's thryoiditis.

There is a product called Armour Thyroid (a natural alternative to synthroid), which I suggest communicating with a Holistic Doctor before taking. 

If you still have questions or would like a complimentary 30 minute consultation, email me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net. 

I'm here to help.

Mary Beth

Halloween Love story Read to the end

Love Story   I will seek and find you. I shall take you to bed and have my way with you. I will make you ache, shake and sweat until you moan and groan. I will make you beg for mercy, beg for me to stop. I will exhaust you to the point that you will be relieved when I'm finished with you. And when I am finished, you will  be weak for days. All my love, The Flu Now go take your supplements, then get back to work!

You can't always believe what they say

Every supplement manufacture will tell you they manufacture their products to the highest quality control standards. Are they all telling the truth?

You probably knew that not all of them could be telling the truth. How else could you explain the investigative reports that surface from time to time showing that some supplements picked up at random from health food stores or purchased over the Internet have serious contamination problems or sometimes have no active ingredient.

The good news is, the FDA, after years of inaction, is finally starting to inspect the manufacturing facilities of some of these companies and to put the really bad players out of business. Of course the bad news is that the FDA doesn't have nearly enough inspectors to inspect the many thousands of manufacturing facilities in the United States. And nobody may be monitoring the manufacturing facilities for those supplements that are made overseas.

So can you really believe the claims of product quality made by every the supplement manufacturers? A report about an FDA action against a supplement company, based in upper state New York, is a clear no.

The company in question states on their website: "Our quality products begin with the purchase of the finest ingredients and packaging materials from carefully selected suppliers. Incoming raw materials undergo stringent quality control inspections - for potency and purity - to assure conformance to the product specifications. Careful storage and handling of raw materials maintain optimal viability of all components."

That sounds pretty good. But in fact the FDA recently filed an injunction to halt the production and distribution of dietary supplements by that company because of a number of violations of current standards for Good Manufacturing Practices in the manufacturing, packaging, labeling and holding operations of their dietary supplements.

Specifically the FDA alleged that the company failed to conduct appropriate tests or examinations to verify the identity of raw ingredients prior to their use and failed to qualify suppliers of raw ingredients through confirmation of their Certificate of Analyses through tests or exams prior to the use of the ingredients that the suppliers provided. Basically the FDA is saying that the company failed to live up to its claim that they carry out "stringent quality control tests for purity and potency".

The FDA also alleged that they failed to use effective measures to protect against the inclusion of metals or other foreign materials in their dietary supplements.  In other words the FDA is saying that they may have introduced contamination into their products in the manufacturing process.

And finally the FDA alleged that they failed to hold the components on the diet components, dietary supplements under conditions that do not lead to mix up contamination or deteriorations of components as required. In other words the FDA is saying that the company failed to live up to its claim that they perform "careful storage and handling of raw materials [to] maintain optimal viability of all components".

While these are allegations that ultimately may need to be proven in a court of law, it appears that the facts may be very different from the quality control claims made by the company. I wish I could tell you that this was an isolated case. But as the FDA is starting to investigate supplement manufacturers they are finding more and more manufacturers who are cutting corners on product quality to keep their operating costs low.

So my advice to you is that it may not always be the best idea to buy the cheapest product that you can find on the Internet. You may not be able to believe the quality control claims that the manufacturer makes. My advice is to go with a reputable company that has a long-standing reputation for product quality.*

Buy from people you know, like, and TRUST.  As they will only sell you products from a company they know, like and trust. 

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

*information provided by Dr. Stephen Chaney

Swine Flu Shot

Is the Swine Flu shot: Safe? Effective? Should I get swine flu shots?

Let's talk safety first.

You may have heard reports that both the British Health Protection Agency and the US Centers For Disease control have sent out letters to neurologists in Britain and the US asking them to look out for an increase in a brain disorder called Guillian-Barre Syndrome - and to notify their respective governments of all cases of this disease that they diagnose in patients that have received the swine flu shot.

Guillian-Barre Syndrome is a disease that attacks the lining of the nerves, leaving them unable to transmit signals to the muscles. This can cause partial paralysis and, if it affects the lungs, can be fatal.

The concern of the British and US governments is based solely on the fact that a similar swine flu vaccine killed more people than it helped in the US in 1976.

The British and US governments simply view their warning letters to neurologists as a reasonable precaution under the circumstances.

Next is effectiveness:  There has been debate if one or two shots are required to give adequate protection against the swine flu.  Some scientists still think two shots are best.  However, a person will probably only receive one so that as many people as possible can be vaccinated.

Second, the swine flu vaccine does not protect against the seasonal flu and vice versa. 

There are people for whom the swine flu or any other type of flu can be deadly.  The people at highest risk are young children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, and people with preexisting diseases like diabetes.

The interesting part is these are the people for whom the flu shot is not very effective.  The best way to protect these people is to immunize everybody else so that they never get exposed.

Most immunizations make sense from a public health perspective, which is why they are so strongly supported by the medical community.

However for healthy individuals with strong immune systems and no preexisting diseases, the risk benefit ratios are not so clear cut.  Sometimes the risks outweigh the benefits.

Thirdly, should you get a swine flu shot?

If you are a healthy individual, that is a very personal decision and I won't presume to make it for you. I've just given you some facts that you may not have known about to ponder as you make that decision.

For people who are at risk for developing severe complications from the swine flu itself (young children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, and people with preexisting diseases like diabetes) this is a decision that you should make in consultation with your physician."

If you'd like another option that only has side benefits, go here. 

Thank you Dr. Chaney for providing this information. 

Always here to help.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Fish Oils and the heart

Recently there was another news story about fish oils.  The story talks about over the counter fish oils.  So let's look at over the counter supplements.

Questions that you should ask are:

1. Does the manufacturer conduct any testing on the raw ingredients that go into the supplement?
2. Many fish contain mercury.  Does the the company have a purification process in place to remove the mercury?  After all, if you're going to take a supplement, it is intended to be good for you.
3. Do they guarantee what's in the label is in each and every tablet, caplet, capsule, etc?
4. Is it important to you that the supplement has been approved by the FDA?

Okay question 4 is a trick question because no, supplements aren't approved by the FDA.  But if you look further into the FDA, you'll find that basically they receive their money from pharmaceutical companies.  So how often do they deny the approval of a prescription?

Be careful on what fish you eat.  Farm raised Salmon have many things in them that aren't good for you.  If you think about Atlantic Salmon, well how many cruise ships, naval ships, submarines etc are in those waters and release body waste, fuel, etc.  Go here to see which is the best salmon.

In reality it is difficult to get everything we need from our food supply.  That is why supplements are essential.  They don't replace food and they are not a crutch for bad diet.  They are a part of a healthy lifestyle formula (healthy diet, exercise, supplements)

If you'd like to take a look at the story I referred to click here.

Want to know what is a high quality fish oil supplement looks like?  Go here.

Before you go "fishing around" on the internet or your local store, contact me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net.  I provide Nutrition Consultations and we work together so you have optimal health.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Are you washing your clothes in toxins?

Generally people know that what we breathe, drink, eat affects our health.  But if you think about it, what is the quickest way to get anything into the body?  Through our skin.

Pharmaceutical companies know this.  How many prescriptions are now in a patch form? 

When thinking about your purchases for laundry products, ask yourself:

1. When you wash your clothes, what do you use? 
2. Do you look at the ingredients?
3. Is price important?
4. Powder or liquid?
5. Fragrance?
6. Do you use fabric softener?
7. Do you use a separate laundry detergent for your baby/children?

Let's look at these questions and provide some answers.

1. Store bought products have name brands and generic.  Price may be a concern to you and whether you are on a septic field or sewer can determine your decision.
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is not good for anyone.  Ingredients are listed in order of how much is in the product.
3. Look at how much each load requires to get your clothes clean.  Just because a container is larger than another brand, doesn't mean you will get more loads washed.
4. People use liquid because it typically doesn't back up piping or septic fields.  There are non toxic and biodegradable laundry products so you have the flexibility of using either.  Well known brands such as All and Tide actually have each granule coated with plastic to make clothes whiter and brighter, which is not good for piping and septic fields.
5. Clean doesn't have a smell.  I realize it is good to put clothes on that smell like the outdoors, and you can still have that smell if you want to hang them on a clothesline.  Fragrances have a negative impact on all of us, especially those with allergies and asthma.
6. Fabric softeners are good to prevent static cling and yes can make clothes smell nice.  Fragrances are toxic.
7. If you feel you should use a separate laundry detergent for your baby/children than the adults, think about this....those chemicals are still lingering in the washer and dryer.  Why not use a laundry detergent and fabric softener that is safe for everyone in the family?

Home is and should be the safest place on earth.

Happy laundering.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Looking for energy in your sports drink?

There is a difference between energy drinks and sports drinks.  Most energy drinks, if not all, contain caffeine.  Did you know companies are not required to list caffeine on food items, including drinks?  Caffeine is not a nutrient.  However some energy drinks do list caffeine content on their label. 

WARNING - look at the number of servings.  Again most energy drinks (ie Monster) have 2 servings in the container.  So double the sugar and caffeine.  There is also the hype that caffeine is good for energy and mental acuity.  No, it really isn't.

Think about your young athlete and you just have given them a Monster energy drink.  Yes they will have temporary energy, they are performing in their sport, and now their heart is going very fast.  Do you think that is good?

Have you seen professional athletes drinking Gatorade?  Did you know they put water in Gatorade so they are not getting the full force of all the sugar? 

Read the label, do the research, and have a healthy athlete.  When reading the label, know the item contains the most of the first ingredient and so on.  Also be aware of how many servings, source of sugar (sucrose is not good, fructose is), and sodium. 

A good sports drink will have potassium which prevents muscle cramping. 

If you'd like to view a couple of energy drinks and sports drinks click here.  Then go here to view what many Olympic athletes use.

It is crucial for an athlete to be hydrated during their sport.  It is important for all to be hydrated. 

Want to learn more?  Contact Mary Beth at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net

Sports Nutrition, 2000 Years Ago

Sports Nutrition has really evolved.  Two thousand years ago, meat was a staple of the athlete's diet. Even alcohol was accepted for use during training and before competition. It has been reported that marathon runners drank cognac to enhance performance in the 1908 Games, and at least one German long-distance walker is said to have consumed 22 glasses of beer and half a bottle of wine during competition!  (I guess they didn't have to walk a straight line :) )

At the 1904 Games in St. Louis, Mo., the gold-medal winner in the marathon was given only egg whites, brandy, strychnine, and a wet sponge to suck on over the entire 26.2-mile course. And in the 1952 Games in Helsinki, Finland, the average athlete consumed a high-fat diet with 40% of calories coming from fat, another 40% from carbohydrate, and the remaining 20% of calories from protein.

Then in the 1970s, researchers began studying trained athletes, and much of the initial research focused on hydration, sports drinks, and carbohydrate intake. In the 1980s, as the value of proteins and carbohydrate for recovery became clear, strength athletes began to more carefully consider their carbohydrate intake, and endurance athletes were better educated on the importance of protein consumption.

And in the past 25 years, hundreds of research studies have helped us to better understand the true value of sports-nutrition strategies. As a result, most of today's athletes preparing for competition are well versed in the benefits of proper hydration—as well as a healthful diet rich in carbohydrates and lean, high-quality protein, but with a limited fat intake. Best of all, we know that elite and recreational athletes alike can take advantage of a smart approach to sports nutrition before, during, and after exercise to maximize athletic performance.

What can you do to achieve peak performance?  Go here for simple and tasty sports nutrition.  Click here for lean muscle mass.

Here are Olympic Athletes that have used these products:

Corey Cogdell - Trap Shooter - 2012 Olympic Bronze Medal
Caryn Davies - Rower, 2012 Olympic Gold Medal
Troy Dumais - Diver, 2012 Olympic Bronze Medal
Margaux Isaksen - Modern Pentathlon, took fourth for the best Olympic result by an American athlete in the modern pentathlon.
Eleanor Logan - Rowing, 2012 Olympic Gold Medal
Keith Sanderson - Rapid Fire Pistol Shooter, 2012 Olympic Bronze Medal

Whether you're going for the gold or you (and your family) just want peak performance, choosing high end sports nutrition will provide the best for now and for your future health.

The definition of Prevention: To keep from happening.
The definition of Cure: recovery from disease.

I'm here to help.  Contact me at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

Soy Protein, Be Careful

There is controversy on Soy Protein.  Is it bad for you?  Is it good for you? 

It's about knowing the company who makes the soy protein. 

• Are the soy beans organic?
• Do they rinse the soy beans with water?
• In making the soy protein, is a cold processing system used?

You won't find this information on a label, but you should be able to find out in the company's website.  Any reputable company will provide that information. 

Non-GMO means the soy protein is not genetically modified.  A high quality soy protein will be non-GMO.  If you don't see non-GMO on the label. it is genetically modified.

Here is an article about Hexane and it may be lurking in popular Soy Protein Bars.

That is why Mama Bear Productions recommends Shaklee. 

Mama Bear Productions suggest:  Read the label, research the company, and look for Non-GMO on the label. 

I've used Shaklee's soy protein products for 14 years and feel wonderful!!  No hot flashes for me :).

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

Horse Sense

If you or anyone you know owns horses, here is some great information.

A good friend of mine is a certified equine massage therapist.  She has seen some interesting things take place in various barns. 

For example some barns have a system where chemicals are sprayed on horses to reduce flies.  This Hmmm who else is the recipient of those chemicals?  Is it getting on their food as well?  What's the cost of those chemicals?

There are other ways.  America's Horse Daily says:  Feed-through fly-control products eliminate flies in manure by keeping fly eggs from hatching with an insect growth regulator. While the regulator is bad for flies, it won’t harm your horse.  If it's bad for flies, I question what it does to the horse?  They do have other suggestions.

What if you could provide a non-toxic, biodegradable, concentrated product that keeps flies away and yet doesn't harm the horse?  How about clinical studies that prove this product is safe for horses and horse owners, would that be important to you?  And if the cost was significantly less than what you are spending now, does that sound appealing? 

I'm not a horse owner, but George and Dede Shaw, owners of Show Place Farm, are.  Here's what they have to say about Basic H2 (the product I'm referring to) “For daily shampoo, we drop a half of a capful of Basic-H2 into two gallons of warm water. Their coats are cleaner, they aren't bothered by mosquitoes, and they're less susceptible to fungus infections. Flies appear to stay about 18-24" away from a horse who's been bathed in Basic-H2. When turning a horse out into a paddock or field, we mix a quart of Basic-H2 to 3 parts water and spray the entire animal. It controls flies and mosquitoes all day.”

Isn't about time to start using high end natural products that are safe for you, your horse, and the planet?

So stop "horsing around" and call Mary Beth  at 810-813-3308 to find out more. 

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

Just in Time for the Olympics

Have you been watching the Olympics?  I've really enjoyed watching them. 

Olympians have to be very careful about what they put into their bodies.  The following is a study of  "sports nutrition products" that aren't what they appear to be.  Also word of caution, just because it is natural does not mean it is good for us.

First came an article in the July 18th edition of the British Medical Journal (Cohen, BMJ, doi: 10.1136/bmj.ed737, 2012) saying that most sports nutrition products have little or no scientific backing.

And they named two of the biggest names in the industry, Pepsi-Cola (manufacturer of Gatorade) and GlaxoSmithKline (manufacturer of Lucozade Sport) as marketing products with little scientific backing.

So how was this study conducted?

A team at the Centre of Evidence Based Medicine at Oxford University evaluated the evidence behind 431 performance enhancing claims in advertisements for 104 different sports products, including sports rehydration drinks and protein shakes.

They contacted the companies and asked them to provide studies to back their claims. Many companies were unable to provide any evidence to back their claims.

However, several companies provided a total of 106 studies, which the team then evaluated. The scientific team concluded that only 2.7% of the studies were of high quality and low risk of bias.

They identified a number of major flaws in the remaining studies including:

- small sample size
- poor quality surrogate outcomes
- poor quality trial design including badly blinded or non-blinded studies
- data dredging using pre-defined outcome measures
- biological outcomes that did not necessarily correlate with improved performance
- inappropriate use of relative measures
- pre-study nutritional input manipulation
- changes in environmental factors - such as heat or cold - during the study

Suffice it to say that lots of the studies were really, really bad! Sadly, many of the sports nutrition products out there are based on hype and marketing, not science (Are you really surprised?).

As if that weren't bad enough, less than a week later the British Medicines and Health Care Regulatory Agency (MHRA) identified 84 sports supplements that should not be used by Olympic athletes (or any athletes, for that matter) because they contained dangerous ingredients.

Some of the supplements in question contained steroids or hormones that were not only dangerous, but could cause Olympic athletes to fail drug testing.

Others contained stimulants like DMAA, ephedrine, synephrine and yohimbe that can cause kidney failure, seizures, heart problems and death.

Most of the supplements in question were not publicly named. Instead, the MHRA simply advised shopkeepers in England to remove them from their shelves.

So there you have it. Most sports supplements are based on hype and marketing, not science. And many sports supplements are downright dangerous.

Your best bet is to stick with a reputable company with a history of working with Olympic athletes. And simply ignore all those claims about instant muscle growth super fast times.

Thank you to Dr. Stephen Chaney for providing this information.

Want the best for your athlete? Contact Mary Beth at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net.  Also you can view some of the exceptional sports products by going here.

Be educated, read labels and for a source you can trust, contact me.

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

Cancer proof your barbecue

We love to barbecue in the summertime!  But we also barbecue in the winter.  Not as much of course. 

You may feel a little overwhelmed at the list of things that can cause cancer.  But if you have never had cancer, GREAT, and wouldn't it be wonderful if you had another source of information to prevent cancer?  All the while enjoying foods cooked on the grill?

Go here and view ideas that will cancer proof your barbecue and also included is some tasty tips. 

If you're looking for exceptional barbecue sauces, and are gluten free, click here.  Dale is a friend of mine and he really knows how to grill!  Take a tour of his website and see all the services he provides.

As an added note, remember to keep hydrated and keep your skin moisturized.  One of the top reasons for skin cancer is people do not moisturize their skin.  For a high end sun tan lotion that doesn't smell like tropical fruit and you won't slide off the lounge chair, click. 

Enjoy the summer!

Mary Beth Potrykus
www.mamabearproductions.net

One little apple and what it can do

The old saying is "an apple a day keeps the doctor away".  What I believe they were really saying is to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into our diet.

Did you know that apples, along with other fruits and vegetables have numerous benefits?

You'd be surprised at the benefits of the fruits and vegetables you may already be eating.  If not, maybe it's time.  Check out this chart.

apples	Protects your heart	prevents constipation	Blocks diarrhea	Improves lung capacity	Cushions joints
apricots	Combats cancer	Controls blood pressure	Saves your eyesight	Shields against Alzheimer's	Slows aging process
artichokes	Aids digestion	Lowers cholesterol	Protects your heart	Stabilizes blood sugar	Guards against liver disease
avocados	Battles diabetes	Lowers cholesterol	Helps stops strokes	Controls blood pressure	Smoothes skin
bananas	Protects your heart	Quiets a cough	Strengthens bones	Controls blood pressure	Blocks diarrhea
beans	Prevents constipation	Helps hemorrhoids	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	Stabilizes blood sugar
beets	Controls blood pressure	Combats cancer	Strengthens bones	Protects your heart	Aids weight loss
blueberries	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Stabilizes blood sugar	Boosts memory	Prevents constipation
broccoli	Strengthens bones	Saves eyesight	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Controls blood pressure
cabbage	Combats cancer	Prevents constipation	Promotes weight loss	Protects your heart	Helps hemorrhoids
cantaloupe	Saves eyesight	Controls blood pressure	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	Supports immune system
carrots	Saves eyesight	Protects your heart	Prevents constipation	Combats cancer	Promotes weight loss
cauliflower	Protects against Prostate Cancer	Combats Breast Cancer	Strengthens bones	Banishes bruises	Guards against heart disease
cherries	Protects your heart	Combats Cancer	Ends insomnia	Slows aging process	Shields against Alzheimer's
chestnuts	Promotes weight loss	Protects your heart	Lowers cholesterol	Combats Cancer	Controls blood pressure
chili peppers	Aids digestion	Soothes sore throat	Clears sinuses	Combats Cancer	Boosts immune system
figs	Promotes weight loss	Helps stops strokes	Lowers cholesterol	Combats Cancer	Controls blood pressure
fish	Protects your heart	Boosts memory	Protects your heart	Combats Cancer	Supports immune system
flax	Aids digestion	Battles diabetes	Protects your heart	Improves mental health	Boosts immune system
garlic	Lowers cholesterol	Controls blood pressure	Combats cancer	kills bacteria	Fights fungus
grapefruit	Protects against heart attacks	Promotes Weight loss	Helps stops strokes	Combats Prostate Cancer	Lowers cholesterol
grapes	saves eyesight	Conquers kidney stones	Combats cancer	Enhances blood flow	Protects your heart
green tea	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Helps stops strokes	Promotes Weight loss	Kills bacteria
honey	Heals wounds	Aids digestion	Guards against ulcers	Increases energy	Fights allergies
lemons	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Controls blood pressure	Smoothes skin	Stops scurvy
limes	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Controls blood pressure	Smoothes skin	Stops scurvy
mangoes	Combats cancer	Boosts memory	Regulates thyroid	aids digestion	Shields against Alzheimer's
mushrooms	Controls blood pressure	Lowers cholesterol	Kills bacteria	Combats cancer	Strengthens bones
oats	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	Battles diabetes	prevents constipation	Smoothes skin
olive oil	Protects your heart	Promotes Weight loss	Combats cancer	Battles diabetes	Smoothes skin
onions	Reduce risk of heart attack	Combats cancer	Kills bacteria	Lowers cholesterol	Fights fungus
oranges	Supports immune systems	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	Straightens respiration
peaches	prevents constipation	Combats cancer	Helps stops strokes	aids digestion	Helps hemorrhoids
peanuts	Protects against heart disease	Promotes Weight loss	Combats Prostate Cancer	Lowers cholesterol	Aggravates diverticulitis
pineapple	Strengthens bones	Relieves colds	Aids digestion	Dissolves warts	Blocks diarrhea
prunes	Slows aging process	prevents constipation	boosts memory	Lowers cholesterol	Protects against heart disease
rice	Protects your heart	Battles diabetes	Conquers kidney stones	Combats cancer	Helps stops strokes
strawberries	Combats cancer	Protects your heart	boosts memory	Calms stress
sweet potatoes	Saves your eyesight	Lifts mood	Combats cancer	Strengthens bones
tomatoes	Protects prostate	Combats cancer	Lowers cholesterol	Protects your heart
walnuts	Lowers cholesterol	Combats cancer	boosts memory	Lifts mood	Protects against heart disease
water	Promotes Weight loss	Combats cancer	Conquers kidney stones	Smoothes skin
watermelon	Protects prostate	Promotes Weight loss	Lowers cholesterol	Helps stops strokes	Controls blood pressure
wheat germ	Combats Colon Cancer	prevents constipation	Lowers cholesterol	Helps stops strokes	improves digestion
wheat bran	Combats Colon Cancer	prevents constipation	Lowers cholesterol	Helps stops strokes	improves digestion
yogurt	Guards against ulcers	Strengthens bones	Lowers cholesterol	Supports immune systems	Aids digestion

Get your 2-3 servings and variety makes it more tasty and doable.

For printable chart, contact Mary Beth at marybeth@mamabearproductions.net.

Mary Beth
www.mamabearproductions.net
.