Blog Archives

Folate and Cancer

Focus on Folate

One of the biggest breakthroughs in vitamin research was when researchers discovered that a woman with a deficiency in folate, a B vitamin, was at an increased risk of having a child with a neural tube defect such as spina bifida or anencephaly. In the past, it was unknown what caused these birth defects. Now it is understood that these neural tube defects occur in the very early stages of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant. This is because spinal cord development is one of the very early stages of fetal development.

Over 30 years ago, researchers in the UK discovered that women who had borne children with spina bifida had lower-than-normal levels of certain vitamins, including folate. During the course of two large trial studies in which women were given either folate or a placebo it was discovered that those who had been given the placebo had a higher incidence of having a child with a neural tube defect. Inversely, the studies showed that the women who had been given adequate levels of folate were less likely to have a baby with a neural tube defect.

For folate to effectively lessen the risk of having a child with a neural tube defect, proper timing is essential. For optimal effectiveness, the vitamin must be taken regularly during the first few weeks following conception, with neural tube development occurs. The problem with this is that many women do not even know they are pregnant until after this stage passes by, making it difficult to time taking the requisite amount of folate. To ensure that enough folate is taken, women of childbearing age who could become pregnant should take folate regularly, either on its own or as part of a multivitamin.

Women of childbearing age who themselves were born with a neural tube defect need to take particular caution. These women are at a higher risk of having a child with a neural tube defect and they will need to take a much higher dose of folate prior to and during the early stages of pregnancy. Although most women can take an over-the-counter folic acid supplement, women who have spina bifida or another neural tube defect will need a prescription-strength supplement that can only be obtained by way of a doctor’s prescription.

It may be tempting to assume that adequate levels of folate can be achieved through a healthy diet, but this isn’t always an easy task. Women should take at least 400 micrograms daily, which can be extremely difficult to get from the average diet. Fortunately, the United States Food and Drug Administration has mandated that folic acid (a form of folate) be added to products such as breads, pasta, rice and other enriched products. Since the government has mandated the fortification of products with folate, there has been a dramatic decrease in the incidence of babies born with neural tube defects, somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 percent.

Folate and cancer

Folate plays an important role in the building of DNA. These complex substances are what form the basis of our genetic blueprint, or one-of-a-kind (excepting identical twins) genetic makeup. Studies have shown that those who receive adequate amounts of folic acid from their diets and/or supplements for more than 15 years exhibit a lesser chance of getting colon cancer or breast cancer. Those who drink alcohol must be particularly careful, as alcohol in the system interferes with the proper metabolism of folate by the body. The protection offered by folate against breast cancer seems to be mitigated by those who have more than one alcoholic drink daily, moreover. A Swedish study supports these findings: That study indicates that the protection offered against breast cancer by folate is only applicable to those women who consume one alcoholic drink or less daily.

It is difficult to ascertain the true relationship between folate and certain kinds of cancer, however. It is a complicated relationship, particularly for those who are already at a higher risk for colon cancer. This is because those people who already have colorectal adenomas (polyps) are not further helped by the taking of folate. In fact, one study’s finding suggests that taking folate may actually increase the risk of those with polyps developing further growths that may be cancerous. However, it is very important to note that the participants in this study were taking a much higher than normal amount of folate than what is typically found in a standard multivitamin – about twice as much, in fact. This could be another instance wherein the timing of taking folate is the key. It may be that folate may prevent the development of polyps in those who don’t already have them, but that it also may speed up the development of polyp growth in those who already do have them.

The key in ascertaining any potential causal relationship between a vitamin supplement and cancer is understanding what cancer cells actually are. They are our own cells gone awry, not a foreign invader like a virus or bacteria. Cancer results from our own cells growing and dividing too rapidly. Because they are on “overdrive,” cancer cells require more nutrients than the rest of our cells do, which is why it seems that certain levels of various nutrients in the body can actually accelerate the growth of already-present cancer cells. This is why chemotherapy often contains nutrient antagonists (including folate antagonists) which are designed to combat the “feeding” of cancer cells by these nutrients.

As always, before taking any vitamin supplements for any reason, it is wise to consult your doctor. They will advise you what to take and how, and what to possibly avoid given your particular situation. Depending on your health needs and current situation, you may be instructed to bump up your intake of certain things or to avoid taking other things. The important thing is to get educated, to be open and honest with your health care professional and to be proactive about your health.

Pregnancy

While pregnancy is not a disease, and is the most natural thing in the world, the suggestions ensure that everything is optimal, making both the pregnancy and delivery easier, and can in fact create a healthier and more intelligent baby. What happens to the mother during pregnancy can affect the baby for the rest of its life.

Doctors can

• Regularly check the mother’s weight and blood pressure, and the baby’s progress.
• Prescribe 5mg of folic acid daily to reduce the incidence of spinal and brain defects such as spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
• If the mother’s iron levels are low, or if she becomes anemic she should take iron tablets.

What the mother can do

BEFORE becoming pregnant. Because the spine and brain develop very early in the fetus – before the mother knows she is pregnant – many mothers at that time will not be taking protective folic acid. The only safe way to protect your baby is to be taking a supplement containing folic acid ALL THE TIME when conception is possible. So as soon as the baby is conceived, the nerve tissues will have plenty of folic acid.

What the mother eats will supply both her own and also her baby’s needs. She generously gives to her baby before herself, so she must eat a good healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, avoiding toxins and preservatives as much as possible and eating organic food, to provide a better outcome for her developing baby.

She should avoid chemicals and drugs, both ingested and on the skin, as much as possible, because again these find their way into the baby. If possible use preservative free skin care products, without parabens and sodium laurel sulphate. Avoid dental work which may stir up mercury in the mouth, because babies are very sensitive to mercury. Because fish can have a high mercury content, even though fish oils can have major benefits, health authorities now recommend that pregnant women eat less than one fish meal per week.

Regular exercise, such as walking, is important, as is have a good night’s sleep and often a nap during the day.

Nutritional supplements

Supplementation seems so obvious that it is hard to understand why many in the medical profession ignore this idea. Perhaps it is because most supplements have such poor contents and so give little benefit. Some supplements may contain potentially damaging impurities with no guarantee of their contents. Examples of these include mercury in fish oils, and lead, which is frequently found in cheaper calcium supplements. However there are supplements made to pharmaceutical levels which provide all the nutrients the body requires. Pregnancy is not a time to take any risks. So give your baby and yourself the best supplements you can.

• A good multivitamin/multimineral ensures that mother and baby have all the nutrients and minerals required to function, grow and develop perfectly. Make sure that it contains at least 5mg folic acid. Also make sure that the supplement contains beta carotene not vitamin A because vitamin A can build up in the baby and cause toxic effects.
• Omega 3 fish oils, 1-2 grams daily, are very important for good brain function and development in the fetus. Studies have shown that mothers who eat plenty of fish or fish oils during pregnancy have babies with higher IQs. Omega 3 oils also improve the tissue elasticity which can be a great help during childbirth. However, since eating fish can expose the baby to high mercury levels, use quality fish oil supplement which guarantee that they are mercury free and are made to pharmaceutical standards.
• Calcium and magnesium, 800-1,000mg/day. Magnesium has a very calming effect and helps with sleep. This dosage provides mother and baby with enough calcium to maintain and develop bones. Magnesium can also help with nerve function and reduce night cramps.
• Extra fiber in the diet can help prevent or reduce the risk of developing piles (haemorrhoids).

Multiple sclerosis

The cause is unknown, but it may fit into the “autoimmune” group of diseases, where the body’s immune system attacks itself. The myelin sheath around the nerves and the brain is slowly destroyed, causing short circuits and malfunction of the nerves. Imagine damage to the plastic coating around an electrical wire. Multiple sclerosis patients tend to relapse with stepwise deteriorations.

Doctors can
• Usually nothing. Some doctors try steroids or immune suppressors but these usually do not have any benefit.

A positive mental approach is very important and may in itself reduce relapses.

• Plenty of rest and regular exercise are beneficial. Avoid getting over tired.
• Some people suggest bowel cleansing and a low stress diet to see if this reduces the relapses.
• Do hair mineral analysis for heavy metal toxicity, and check the teeth for excess mercury, infected root canals or jaw cavitations.
• If there is anything which precedes a relapse (stress, pollen, changes in temperature, dietary change), try to avoid these.

Nutritional supplements

• A good multimineral makes sure that brain tissues have all the nutrients and minerals required to function perfectly.
• Omega 3 fish oils, 1-2 grams daily. This is very important for good brain function. Because MS is a disease affecting the nerves, a high omega 3 intake can be very beneficial. It may also reduce the relapse rate and improve symptoms. In a small study of patients with multiple sclerosis, over 2 years the incidence of recurrences fell from 1.39 to 0.06 in those taking omega 3 fish oils, B vitamins and vitamin C.
• Calcium and magnesium, 800-1,000mg/day. Magnesium has a very calming effect, helps with sleep and enables people to cope better. It can also help with nerve function.
• Grape seed extract (proanthocyanidins) is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent and some people with multiple sclerosis find that taking high doses can help both with the severity and the frequency of the relapses.
• Vitamin C, 1-3 grams/day, is a powerful antioxidant which is essential in the repair of fibrous tissue and may help the repair of the myelin sheaths round the nerves.
• Because the muscles can become weak, exacerbating tiredness, Coenzyme Q10 can be helpful to improve energy.
• Whenever there is an exacerbation of the multiple sclerosis, the Co Q10 and grape seed extract should be greatly increased, b up to 3 or 4 times the usual dose, and may well prevent the relapse.

Migraine

This debilitating headache can destroy a person’s quality of life. It usually starts with an aura – jagged visions, unusual light, sounds or even smells and other unusual sensations. This is then followed by a severe thumping headache, often with nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. Some things like chocolate, cheese or red wine can precipitate a migraine. In women it may be premenstrual.

Doctors can

• Investigations. These are usually unnecessary because the history gives the diagnosis.
• Treatments. There are a number of drugs which can be tried as preventatives: beta blockers, clonidine, pizotifen. Note that these do have side effects and it is best to try more “natural therapies” first. In the past, injections of ergotamine were given to treat migraine, but today, a newer drug (sumatryptan, also known as Imigran) orally or by injection can be very effective.

Every time you have a migraine, look back on what you have done, eaten or drunk in the preceding 24 hours and see if you can find a common cause. If you do, then avoid this in future if possible. Avoid bright lights or flashing light areas.

Nutritional supplements

These can make a real difference in the treatment of migraine and it is hard to see why more people are not given this information.

• Magnesium helps the arteries to relax, and reduces the spasm, which creates the “aura”. It takes some months for the full effect to occur, but over time 800-1,000mg taken daily may eliminate migraine completely.
• Some doctors give an intravenous injection of magnesium when the migraine occurs which can stop it. Once gram is given over 15 minutes.
• A good multivitamin/multimineral ensures that the arteries have all the nutrients and minerals required to function optimally.
• Omega 3 fish oils, 1-2 grams daily. These, when incorporated into the artery walls and the brain tissue, can help in the prevention of migraine.
• Grape seed extract (proanthocyanidins) is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which can help in the prevention of migraine.
• Sometimes hormonal changes cause migraine attacks and the use of some hormones (especially natural progesterone) can be helpful.

People should routinely take nutritional supplements

In this polluted, highly stressed modern world, with the quality of most food and the difficulty in eating a perfect diet, people should take nutritional supplements on a routine basis.

There is much to gain – Premature ageing and chronic degenerative diseases are crippling and killing our generation and it is likely to be even worse for our children. If good supplementation can reduce this, then surely it should be carefully considered.

Which supplements are recommended?

• A good multivitamin / antioxidant preparation. Appropriate formulations should also be given to children over the age of one. In areas of the world where selenium levels are low, selenium should be added to the supplement.
• In addition unless a person has a substantial regular diet of fish, then he or she should take an omega 3 fish oil supplement – but make sure it is mercury free.
• Because magnesium is so important for many bodily functions, including absorption of calcium, for most people should take a good quality calcium and magnesium supplement as well.

What is there to lose? Supplements which simply provide the body with what should be in an optimal diet are as safe as eating that optimal diet. Higher doses of some nutrients may provide additional benefit, but even these have been shown to be safe. In the recent Oxford Heart Protection Study involving over 10,000 people taking vitamin E for 5 years, no adverse events were seen.

Our children: even if you yourself do not wish to take supplements, think about your children. Many diseases are becoming more common in the children of today (diabetes, obesity, cancer, asthma, allergies, eczema, depression, suicide) and poor nutrition is playing a significant part in this. Just look at what our children and youth eat and ask yourself if their growing cells are receiving proper nutrition. Providing quality nutritional supplements to our children will have a profound beneficial effect on their future health. What better legacy could we leave them?

Everyone should take supplements (as recommended in the Journal of the American Medical Association) because:

1. The nutritional value of today’s food has fallen so much.
2. High levels of processing and prolonged storage affect the quality of food.
3. Most people are unable to eat the wide range of foods in our fast-moving world.
4. Fast foods, with all their problems, continue to be the staple diet for many people and their children.
5. Our world is more polluted, toxic and chemically laden. We need additional good nutrients to enable our bodies to detoxify.

Supplements will not replace a good diet. We need to eat as well as possible, paying attention to the quality and source of the food (organic and fresh is best). There are many additional beneficial nutrients in our food which we have not yet recognized. Unfortunately, quality food containing everything we require is almost impossible to obtain. It is expensive and beyond the budget constraints for most people who would benefit from them. The utopian diet is not available to most people in this world. BUT nonetheless, we should try. It would be wonderful if we could get our nutritional requirements form our food.

Recommendations for a preventive Lifestyle

1. Avoid toxins and preservatives as much as possible
2. Regularly exercise – as appropriate throughout life
3. Learn relaxation – take time out for your body and mind
4. Eat as well as you can – especially fruit & vegetables
5. Take nutritional supplements to make sure that your body receives all the nutrients it needs – from childhood right through till old age:

• A good multivitamin/multimineral. Note, to get all the nutrients at optimal dose this may mean 4-8 tablets day
• Omega 3 fish oils (mercury free) – at least 1 gram/day
• Calcium and magnesium – 500-800mg daily
• Selenium 150ug daily – especially in countries where it is not in the soil
• In men as they age – saw palmetto and lycopene for prostate health
If we start this in our children and they carry it on though their lives, we genuinely believe that:

We could reverse today’s degenerative diseases epidemic (coronary disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, arthritis) in one generation. What a legacy for us to leave our children!

Vitamin D – Dosage

How long does it take to increase 25-vitamin D levels after starting supplementation?

Healthy adults taking 1,000 IU of vitamin D a day reach their peak blood level within five to six weeks. When the patients are treated with 50,000 IU of vitamin D2 once a week for eight weeks to treat a deficiency, their blood level begins to increase by the first week and levels off by the eighth week of treatment.

Is there any advantage to taking smaller doses more frequently rather than one large dose per day?

There is no advantage to taking smaller doses more frequently rather than a large dose of 1,000 or 2,000 IU of vitamin D a day. Indeed, you can take 2,000 IU of vitamin D a day or 14,000 IU of vitamin D once a week or 60,000 IU of vitamin D once a month; they all work the same way.

Do you need to take a supplement even during the summer?

If you’re good about getting plenty of sensible sun exposure throughout the summer months, or you live in a sunny place like Florida, then you may not necessarily need to supplement. However, it’s much easier to get into the routine of taking a supplement year-round. And even Floridians have been shown to be largely deficient, because they avoid the sun or wear sun protection. You cannot overdose on sunlight exposure and become vitamin D intoxicated, so no matter how much sun you get during the summer, taking an additional 1,000 to 2,000 IU supplement cannot hurt you. It is recommended that everyone taking 1,000 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D a day along with a multivitamin containing 400 IU of vitamin D. This will not cause any buildup of vitamin D in the body, and by using this routine, you are less likely to forget it in the winter.

How many units of vitamin D would a person have to take to become toxic?

Vitamin D intoxication will not occur until a person is taking more than 10,000 IU of vitamin D a day for more than six months. Adults who received 10,000 IU of vitamin D a day for five months showed no signs of toxicity. You cannot overdose on vitamin D from exposure to sunlight or a tanning bed or a UVB-producing lamp, no matter how much UVB you get.

What is the best supplement for children who cannot swallow pills?

Infants can be administered vitamin D through pediatric vitamin drops. If you have children who cannot or will not swallow pills, you can crush a vitamin D tablet or squeeze the contents of a gel capsule into a glass of milk or juice. A good product that has emerged on the market and is a liquid form of vitamin D. Made by Wellesse, it contains 500 IU of vitamin D per teaspoon.

Does the recommended dose of vitamin D supplement need to be taken with fat (not in a tablet form)?

The recommended dose of vitamin D supplement does not need to be taken with fat. Vitamin D is equally bioavailable in corn oil, milk, and orange juice.

How should a vegan or vegetarian make sure he or she gets enough vitamin D?

Vegans should supplements with at least 1,000 IU of vitamin D a day, and preferably 2,000 IU. This would be in addition to a multivitamin. Vegans concerned about animal sources of supplemental vitamin D3 can opt for supplements containing vitamin D2, which comes from yeast.

What is the advice for vegan or vegetarian children?

It is recommended that all children, including vegan children, ingest at least 400 IU of vitamin D a day, and preferably 1,000 IU of vitamin D a day, along with a multivitamin, especially if they are not getting adequate exposure to sunlight.

If a person is not vitamin D deficient, what is the best over-the-counter form and dose to take? What if the person is vitamin D deficient?

If a person is not vitamin D deficient, to maintain a vitamin D sufficiency the person should take at least 1,000 IU of vitamin D2 or 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day in addition to multivitamin with 400 IU of vitamin D. if a person is vitamin D deficient, then double or triple the dose and he or she should take 2,000 to 3,000 IU of vitamin D a day along with a multivitamin. A person who is severely vitamin D deficient should consult a doctor to inquire about prescription-level treatment.

What form of supplementation do you recommend – D2 or D3?

1,000 IU of vitamin D2 is as effective as 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 in raising blood levels of 25-vitamin D. Either form can be used. But note: to raise blood levels of 25-vitamin D to above 30 nanograms per milliliter, you need to take more than 1,000 IU.

Is the prescription form of vitamin D different from what’s available over the counter?

In the United States, the only vitamin D form available by prescription is vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol. It comes either in a capsule with 50,000 IU of vitamin D2 or in a liquid form (for pediatric patients) with 8,000 IU of vitamin D2 per 1 milliliter. Vitamin D2 can also be found in some over-the-counter supplements, and it’s just as effective as vitamin D3.