What supplements should i take if i don t have a gallbladder

Table of Contents Show

• Digestive Problems After Gallbladder Removal
• This is a subtitle for your new post
• The perfect pair - D3 and K2
• Back to School Immune Support
• Back to School - Sleep Support
• Back to School Basics - Omega-3s
• K2 and your arteries
• Neutralize Your Stress
• Stop Allergies Before They Start
• You need Omega-3s
• Statins and CoQ10
• Help for heartburn
• What are the best digestive enzymes for no gallbladder?
• What vitamins are hard to absorb without a gallbladder?
• Can you take probiotics if you don't have a gallbladder?
• What helps bloating with no gallbladder?

Digestive Problems After Gallbladder Removal

Digestive problems after gallbladder removal are extremely common occurrences in the adult population. With thousands of people having to undertake gallbladder removal due to pain and digestive discomfort, most people expect this discomfort to end post-surgery, however in a vast majority of cases it is common to have just as much digestive problems after the gallbladder is removed.

People who have had gallbladder removal often complain of digestive discomfort including frequent bowel movements, gas, bloating and liver problems. The risks of developing a fatty liver are also greatly increased.

The function of the gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small organ located on the underside of the liver and its main function is to store bile that is produced by the liver. Bile is a substance that helps break down fats from the foods we ingest so that we can absorb some of these for the manufacture of hormones and other compounds. Any extra bile that the liver produces is stored in the gallbladder until the next meal containing fats when it is released from the gallbladder into the intestines.

Without a gallbladder, normal digestion is possible but often this proves not to be the case because the liver produces trace amounts of bile on an ongoing basis, which trickle into the small intestine however when you eat a meal containing fats, often the bile in the small intestine is simply insufficient to digest all the fats which can result in diarrhoea, bloating, nausea and/ or symptoms of indigestion.

Additionally, not digesting fats means that the body cannot absorb essential fatty acids, the good fats such as omega 3 and omega 6. Aside from possible essential fatty acid deficiency, the absorption of oil soluble vitamins such as A,D,E and K may also be compromised.

Healthy digestion after gallbladder removal

It is important to realise that gallbladder problems often arise as a result of a compromised liver function. It may be that the quality of bile produced by the liver is poor, which then results in bile forming a sludge and stones. Removal of the gallbladder will not solve this problem and if anything it may result in these stones forming in the liver which then results in less than efficient liver functioning.

My recommendations for digestive problems after gallbladder removal include:

Eat some good fats and avoid bad fats including saturated fats. Although most people are recommended to have a low fat diet, this is not necessarily a good idea because the body requires essential fats for the production of hormones, cholesterol and numerous other compounds. Include moderate quantities of virgin olive oil, nuts, seeds and avocados.

Take milk thistle for liver. The milk thistle supplement should include Milk Thistle, Dandelion and Artichoke which all work in synergy to enhance the production of extra bile. The increase in bile production should help to ease digestive problems and may prevent stone formation in the liver itself. A supplement containing all these three herbs is Milk Thistle Complex by Healthaid.

Many people with gallbladder problems will have suffered with poor digestion and digestive discomfort for years. These symptoms will often continue even after the removal of the gallbladder. Digestive concerns such as IBS, SIBO and candidiasis often cause insufficient digestive enzymes production. Taking a wheat, gluten and dairy free digestive enzymes supplement, such as Lamberts Digestizyme should help to restore good digestive health and reduce the symptoms of indigestion.

Jennifer Kleinhans, BS, CHES® • Aug 13, 2018

This is a subtitle for your new post

The gallbladder plays a vital role in the digestive process, and while the removal of the organ may provide relief from gallstones or other inflammatory related issues, its absence can cause discomfort when it comes to digesting and absorbing fats properly.

The gallbladder stores bile which is produced by the liver, and bile is essential for the digestion of fats in the diet. Once the gallbladder is removed the process of breaking down fat becomes more taxing on the digestive system. Think of it this way, if you place oil in water it will remain floating on the surface and does not mix in. However, when you add a drop of dish soap it breaks the oil into smaller droplets, thus allowing the oil and water to mix together (1). This is how bile works in the body, it acts like the “soap” that breaks down fats into smaller molecules to be absorbed.

If you’ve had your gallbladder removed, it’s quite possible eating foods that contain fat can result in digestive discomfort, stomach cramping, and even fatty stools due to improper absorption of fat. This is not to say you can no longer consume fats, but you may want to ease your way into reintroducing fats after surgery.

Supplements can also provide much needed support in breaking down fats after gallbladder removal. A few of my favorites are:

Enzymedica Lypo Gold: This product contains enzymes for protein and carbohydrates but has a specific focus on fats, and in studies has been shown to break down up to 22 grams of fat within 30 minutes. One capsule to be taken with each meal for optimal support. Plant based, vegan, and Kosher.

Vital Choice Superzymes: A combination formula of pancreatic enzymes for breaking down protein (protease), carbohydrates (amylase), and fats (lipases). Also contains:

• Bile acid- helps to break down fats so that fat digesting enzymes (lipases) can further break down foods
• Betaine HCL- helps support the digestive process in the break-down of protein and fats, helps relieve digestive discomfort.
• Bromelain- derived from pineapple, can aid in the break- down of protein
• Papain- derived from papaya, supports protein digestion
• It is important to note that if someone has stomach ulcers they should not use Betaine HCL, caution is advised if you are taking antacids or medications for acid reflux.

In addition to supplements, the following dietary changes can make digestion after gallbladder removal far easier and more comfortable (2)(3):

• Fiber: high fiber foods such as flax, chia, beans, fruits, and vegetables
• Beets, Artichokes, Dandelion Greens: these can help to support the liver and improve bile production for the break- down of fats
• Unrefined Healthy Fats: these can come from sources such as nuts and seeds, olive oil, or coconut oil to name a few. Healthy fats should be consumed in small- amounts throughout the day
• Fruits and Vegetables: an increase in plant- based foods in the diet can likely decrease gallbladder distress
• Lean Protein: include good- quality pasture raised, wild caught, or grass- fed sources to decrease possible digestive upset associated with more fatty meats

This information is not intended as personal medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The perfect pair - D3 and K2

If we were to put together a list of perfect pairs, it wouldn’t take long to come up with classic examples like peanut butter and jelly or spaghetti and meatballs. Today, I want to add one to the list that is not nearly as well known, but if you care about your health, it should be. What is this instant classic? The perfect pair of vitamins D3 and K2. While each of these nutrients have demonstrated significant benefit to bone and heart health separately, a growing body of research shows there is a synergy when the two are taken together. In other words, for D3 and K2, 1+1 = 3. First, let’s take a look at vitamin D. While most of us think of vitamin D as a supplement, vitamin D is actually a hormone made in the body when exposed to sunlight as well as a nutrient we get in our diet. It’s fat-soluble (which means it is stored in the body) and has been long-known to help with building strong bones. In addition, vitamin D plays a critical role in immune health helping to both fight the common cold as well as reduce cancer cell growth. When supplementing with vitamin D, the form to look for is called D3, or cholecalciferol as it is far more bioavailable than the D2 (ergoalciferol) form. While most vitamin D3 supplements are manufactured from lanolin (from sheep’s wool), over the last several years multiple vegetarian sources have been developed from every from lichen to algae, so now even those living a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle can use the preferred D3 form. Browse vitamin D3 options here. Now let’s look at K2. Over the past few years, vitamin K has exploded in popularity. There are actually two kinds of vitamin K, K1 and K2. K1 is primarily found in green leafy vegetables and is not very well absorbed. K2, which is well absorbed, is largely found in fermented foods like cheese, sauerkraut and natto. There is also a small amount in egg yolks and organ meats. Research shows vitamin K2 is absolutely crucial for calcium absorption and plays a key role in the production of new bone. First, vitamin K2 has been linked to cells called osteoblasts, that produce or “lay down” new bone. Second, vitamin K2 helps produce a protein that acts as a glue helping to incorporate calcium into the bones. But wait…there’s more! Studies have also shown there are specific heart health benefits to the K2, including the ability to reduce the risk of heart disease. Vitamin K2 helps prevent atherosclerosis by activating a special protein called MPG that inhibits vascular calcification. By keeping excess calcium out, K2 helps support the health and elasticity of arterial walls. In fact, according to the well-known Dutch Rotterdam Study, participants with the highest intake of K2 had a 57% lower risk of dying from heart disease. They also had a 26% reduction in risk of dying from any cause, and a 52% lower risk of severe aortic calcification. I like to imagine vitamin K2 like a traffic cop, directing calcium out of the arteries (enhancing heart health) and into the bones (enhancing bone health). While the government has not established a recommended daily intake for K2, many health experts are advocating for one to be established. This is especially important when you consider it is estimated that 97% of Americans fall well short of the levels shown to be so beneficial in the Rotterdam study. Supplementing with vitamin K2 can get a little confusing because even among K2, there are different forms. The most popular in supplements are called MK-7 and MK-4. While both forms provide benefit, most studies show the MK-7 form to be the most bioavailable and thus more powerful per milligram. While there are a variety of nice products available, one product I like is our own Vital Choice Vitamin K2 . Vital Choice health Store’s K2 product uses a patented form of K2 called MenaquinGold™ (as menaquinone-7 or MK-7), shown to be the most bioavailable form of K2 as it is derived from all-natural food source. 1+1=3 Finally, let’s talk synergy. If you have a heart and if you have bones, you should really consider supplementing with both vitamins D3 and K2. Okay, while this statement is meant to be a bit humorous, the truth is these supplements provide significant health benefits when taken alone, but even more when taken together. In fact, while we know vitamin K2 can inhibit calcium from entering arteries, a recent study found when K2 (as MK-7) and D3 were taken together, arterial calcification wasn’t just inhibited, existing calcification was reduced! While you can take your D3 and K2 separately, there are an increasing number of options for those wishing to take them in one product. In fact, these days you can find every form imaginable – capsules and tables, liquids and even gummies . Mike Ventresca is owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. References https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15514282/ https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-d/#:~:text=It%20is%20a%20fat%2Dsoluble,control%20infections%20and%20reduce%20inflammation. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/vitamin-k2-and-d-supplementation-reduces-risk-of-coronary-artery-calcification-says-recent-study

Back to School Immune Support

By Michael Ventresca • 20 Sep, 2022 •

As students head back to school, you can count on immune challenges almost as much as you can report cards. In addition to building a solid immune foundation with probiotics and vitamin D-3, Mother Nature has provided a variety of scientifically validated options when the need arises. In this article, we’ll focus on two of the most universally beneficial options. Elderberry Elderberry has long been used to support immune and respiratory challenges. According to studies, one of the ways elderberry works is by interrupting viral replication. Unlike bacteria, viruses don’t reproduce on their own, but need to enter healthy host cells to multiply. The naturally occurring plant chemicals in elderberry have been shown to inhibit this process by interrupting a virus’ ability to enter a healthy cell. This interruption allows immune cells to more quickly react and target the virus. The end result can be shorter duration and severity of illness. Elderberry can be taken as needed or as a daily prevention strategy. As with all herbs, it’s very important to ensure you are getting a potent product. Like buying any fruit or vegetable, the quality and care of the ingredients determine the potency. After all, a rotten apple scooped up off the ground is still an apple, even though we all know the better option is one picked from an organic tree when perfectly ripened. Some of my favorite brands of elderberry products are from New Chapter , Gaia Herbs and of course, our own Vital Choice Health Store brand . Functional mushrooms Over the last several years, many people have become much more familiar with functional, or medicinal, mushrooms. While you may have just begun to hear of them, these nutritional superheroes have been helping adults and children stay healthy for centuries. In fact, functional mushrooms are believed to have approximately 125 therapeutic effects, including immunomodulating, antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral, and antibacterial, to name a few. Some of the most powerful immune supporting mushrooms include maitake, reishi, turkey tail, and chaga. Like elderberry, functional mushrooms can be taken daily to support a healthy immune response or as needed to combat a specific challenge. You can find functional mushrooms as capsules and liquid extracts and even as instant beverages. Because mushrooms will incorporate whatever they are grown on, be sure to look for organic options whenever possible. Some of our most popular products include Stamets 7 and MyCommunity from Host Defense as well as Mushroom Immune from Vital Choice . If you’re looking for something beyond the usual capsule or liquid extracts (which can be a problem for younger children), Host Defense now offers MycoBrews – instant hot cocoa and coffee products with added organic functional mushrooms. These can be mixed instantly with water, milk or milk-substitute to create a tasty nutritious treat. Of course, Mother Nature has far more than elderberry and mushrooms in her immune health toolkit. To discuss other options like echinacea, oregano, umcka, vitamin C, and more please stop into Vital Choice Health Store. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. References: Krawitz C, Mraheil MA, Stein M, Imirzalioglu C, Domann E, Pleschka S, Hain T. Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011 Feb 25;11:16. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-11-16. PMID: 21352539; PMCID: PMC3056848. Guggenheim AG, Wright KM, Zwickey HL. Immune Modulation From Five Major Mushrooms: Application to Integrative Oncology. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2014 Feb;13(1):32-44. PMID: 26770080; PMCID: PMC4684115.

Back to School - Sleep Support

By Michael Ventresca • 14 Sep, 2022 •

There is perhaps no habit more healthful then getting a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, a new school year can sometimes can make this difficult. Some of the most popular and time-tested options for sleep include herbal support from valerian and passionflower, magnesium and melatonin. Herbal Support Valerian and passionflower are two herbs often used for relaxation and sleep. Valerian can be consumed as a tea but is not my first choice for younger students as it has a pretty strong odor and flavor. If you think taste may be an issue, an liquid or capsule is probably a better place to start. Valerian Super Calm from Herbs for Kids is a popular liquid extract with dosage for children of all ages. For older students who can swallow pills, Vital Choice Valerian vegicaps is a great option. If you’d like to avoid valerian, WishGarden’s Sleepy Night for Kids combines time tested passionflower and skullcap with other calming herbs. Magnesium Magnesium is a popular option for relaxing, especially before bed. While it’s used in over 300 different processes, magnesium has recently gained attention for its ability to reduce stress as well as the ability to promote a deeper and more resultful sleep. Because magnesium can have a laxative effect, it’s important to take the proper forms. Look for magnesium glycinate or magnesium citrate. These forms are well absorbed and easy on the stomach. When possible, avoid larger doses of magnesium oxide, as this form is not well absorbed and will often produce a laxative effect. A few good options for students include Garden of Life Magnesium Gummies and MegaFood’s Magnesium Soft Chews . You can also find products like Natural Calm that offers magnesium that can be mixed into warm water to make a tea. Melatonin When the sleep-wake pattern is disturbed, supplementing with melatonin can be a great way to get back on track. Melatonin is a hormone-like substance produced in the brain and released in the evening telling the body that it’s time to sleep. There is strong scientific evidence that melatonin can shorten the time to fall asleep in children with insomnia, including children with ADHD, autism, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies often show that supplementing with melatonin does not appear to suppress normal production. According to the Sleep Foundation, doctors often use the following dosage levels: Preschool-age: 1 to 2 milligrams School-age: 2 to 3 milligrams Adolescents: 5 milligrams Blue light and melatonin You have probably heard about blue light – the short wavelength light from tablets, e-readers smartphones and many TVs. Numerous studies have shown this form of light can disrupt sleep if used within an hour of bedtime. A major reason for this is because blue light has been shown to suppress melatonin production more than any other form of light. Essentially, it’s telling your brain that it’s still daytime and thus, melatonin is not released like it should be. In addition to melatonin in tablet and liquid form from Vital Choice brand, MegaFood’s Melatonin Gummies are a nice option. Finally, Mommy’s Bliss Kids Sleep Chewable Tablets is a nice all-in-one option for kids 3 and up. It provides magnesium, melatonin and supportive herbs in one product. For older students, I like Vital Choice’s Sleep with Valerian & Melatonin . This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. References Gromball J, Beschorner F, Wantzen C, Paulsen U, Burkart M. Hyperactivity, concentration difficulties and impulsiveness improve during seven weeks' treatment with valerian root and lemon balm extracts in primary school children. Phytomedicine. 2014 Jul-Aug;21(8-9):1098-103. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2014.04.004. Epub 2014 May 15. PMID: 24837472. Boyle, N.B.; Lawton, C.; Dye, L. The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2017, 9, 429. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9050429 Janjua I, Goldman RD. Sleep-related melatonin use in healthy children. Can Fam Physician. 2016 Apr;62(4):315-7. PMID: 27076541; PMCID: PMC4830653. Summer, J. (2022, June 3). Melatonin dosage for kids. Sleep Foundation. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/melatonin/melatonin-dosage-for-kids

Back to School Basics - Omega-3s

By Michael Ventresca • 09 Sep, 2022 •

Essential fatty acids are essential to your child’s health – brain health, digestive health, eye health, heart health, joint health, and immune health. We tend to focus on two types - omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, although it should be noted there are more. While both omega-3 and omega-6 are essential, Americans are far more likely to be under consuming omega-3 fatty acids – so for this guide, we’ll focus there. The essential in essential fatty acid means they must be consumed in the diet as the body cannot manufacture them. The problem is most Americans are far under consuming omega-3s. Omega-3s can be found in both vegetarian (walnuts, hemp seeds, and chia seeds) and animal sources (fish and some grass-fed meat). Health experts agree that getting your omega-3s directly from fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are preferred because those foods provide the omegas in specific forms called DHA and EPA. These are the most ‘body ready’ forms. Consuming vegetarian sources is still great but does require a conversion process that often results in less than optimal performance. According to studies, the DHA and EPA forms of omega-3 fatty acids appear to improve brain function and mood in children — in particular, learning, memory, and brain development. Research also shows DHA and EPA may be able to benefit those with ADHD. Due to the beneficial support omega-3 fatty acids provide throughout the body, ensuring adequate omega-3s in the diet may be the most important foundational support for your student regardless of age. Eating fatty fish like wild-caught salmon three to five times each week, and/or snacking on walnuts and chia seeds is a great way to ensure adequate omega-3 levels. For most, however, a more consistent option is a supplement. The good news here is there are numerous options available from softgels to liquids to gummies. The key to finding a good supplement is ensuring purity and processing standards. After all, an oil loaded with heavy metals or one that is so highly processed that the fatty acids have been damaged is of no use. Some of the best options include: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega and Child DHA, New Chapter’s Wholemega , Barleans Seriously Delicious Omega-3 and Vital Choice’s Ultra Omega-3 . There is also great news for those that prefer a vegetarian option. You can now get vegan omega-3 DHA and EPA derived from Algae. Nordic Naturals Algae Omega is one of our best options here. Next up – Basic Support #2 – Probiotics (coming soon) References: DiNicolantonio JJ, O'Keefe JH. The Importance of Marine Omega-3s for Brain Development and the Prevention and Treatment of Behavior, Mood, and Other Brain Disorders. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 4;12(8):2333. doi: 10.3390/nu12082333. PMID: 32759851; PMCID: PMC7468918. Grosso G, Galvano F, Marventano S, Malaguarnera M, Bucolo C, Drago F, Caraci F. Omega-3 fatty acids and depression: scientific evidence and biological mechanisms. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2014;2014:313570. doi: 10.1155/2014/313570. Epub 2014 Mar 18. PMID: 24757497; PMCID: PMC3976923. Lin PY, Su KP. A meta-analytic review of double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids. J Clin Psychiatry. 2007 Jul;68(7):1056-61. doi: 10.4088/jcp.v68n0712. PMID: 17685742. Giacobini M, Medin E, Ahnemark E, Russo LJ, Carlqvist P. Prevalence, Patient Characteristics, and Pharmacological Treatment of Children, Adolescents, and Adults Diagnosed With ADHD in Sweden. J Atten Disord. 2018 Jan;22(1):3-13. doi: 10.1177/1087054714554617. Epub 2014 Nov 5. PMID: 25376193. Gillies D, Sinn JKh, Lad SS, Leach MJ, Ross MJ. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Jul 11;2012(7):CD007986. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007986.pub2. PMID: 22786509; PMCID: PMC6599878. Stevens LJ, Zentall SS, Deck JL, Abate ML, Watkins BA, Lipp SR, Burgess JR. Essential fatty acid metabolism in boys with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Am J Clin Nutr. 1995 Oct;62(4):761-8. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/62.4.761. PMID: 7572706. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

K2 and your arteries

By Michael Ventresca • 06 Sep, 2022 •

Over the past few years, vitamin K2 has exploded in popularity. While many now recognize the important role it plays in building strong bones (especially when paired with vitamin D3), today I want to share a lesser known, but arguably more important, benefit of vitamin K2 – preventing heart disease. There are actually two kinds of vitamin K, K1 and K2. K1 is primarily found in green leafy vegetables and is not very well absorbed. K2, which is well absorbed, is largely found in fermented foods like cheese, sauerkraut and natto. There is also a small amount in egg yolks and organ meats. Studies have shown there are specific health benefits to the K2 form, including the ability to reduce the risk of heart disease. Simply put, vitamin K2 helps prevent atherosclerosis by activating a special protein called MPG that inhibits vascular calcification. By keeping excess calcium out, K2 helps support the health and elasticity of arterial walls. In fact, according to the well-known Dutch Rotterdam Study, participants with the highest intake of K2 had a 57% lower risk of dying from heart disease. They also had a 26% reduction in risk of dying from any cause, and a 52% lower risk of severe aortic calcification. While the government has not established a recommended daily intake for K2, many health experts are advocating for one to be established. This is especially important when you consider it is estimated that 97% of Americans fall well short of the levels shown to be so beneficial in the Rotterdam study. While there are a variety of nice products available, I take Vital Choice Vitamin K2 daily. Vital Choice health Store’s K2 product uses a patented form of K2 called MenaquinGold™ (as menaquinone-7 or MK-7), shown to be the most bioavailable form of K2 as it is derived from all-natural food source. To learn more, please stop in to discuss with one of our Health Assistants today. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Neutralize Your Stress

By Michael Ventresca • 07 Jul, 2022 •

It’s important to find a healthy way to manage stress. From anxiety and depression, to a range of health conditions including weight gain, IBS and heart disease, stress accounts for nearly 90 percent of all visits to primary health care providers. Bottom line, stress overload can have an enormously negative effect on your health. While best managed holistically including regular exercise, proper sleep, meditation and breathing work, studies have demonstrated that natural remedies can play a critical role in combating the damaging effects of stress. L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, is one of these remedies. According to clinical research, l-theanine naturally stimulates activity in the brain known as alpha waves, which are associated with a relaxed but alert mental state. GABA is another great stress buster. It’s an amino acid which acts as a neurotransmitter helping to calm nervous activity in the brain and elevate mood. My favorite is PharmaGABA, a patented form that has been shown to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is essential for results. Finally, the adaptogenic herb ashwagandha has been shown to have both dramatic anti-anxiety properties as well as provide adrenal support. Sensoril is a patented form that has been the subject of numerous clinical studies. Here’s the best news for combating stress – one supplement combines all three of these remedies in one pill, it’s called GABA Soothe by Jarrow Formulas . I really like this product because it works in three ways: the theanine calms, the patented PharmaGABA elevates feelings of well-being and the clinically studied Sensoril ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen making it great for long-term stress support. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Stop Allergies Before They Start

By Michael Ventresca • 28 Jun, 2022 •

Years ago, I remember seeing a commercial for an allergy drug. In the video a rather suave bee is talking romantically to a flower only to sneeze himself away. While I can’t say I’ve had that exact experience, I certainly know people who are really bothered by allergies. I’m sure you do too. In fact, more than 40 million Americans suffer from seasonal or perennial airborne allergies caused by an overactive immune system. Like the bee in the commercial, many turn to medications for relief. The problem is these drugs can cause side effects such as nervousness, fatigue, headache and drowsiness. Are there natural options for allergy sufferers? Yes! According to research, a bio-flavonoid called quercetin can act as a natural antihistamine without side effects. Quercetin appears to be especially effective when combined with bromelain (an anti-inflammatory from pineapple) and vitamin C. With that said, one product that really stands out for allergy sufferers is All Season Support. More than 10 years in the making, All Season Support (once sold as Aller-7) combines quercetin, bromelain and vitamin C with an extensively researched, patented blend of seven herbs clinically proven to promote respiratory health and normal breathing seasonally and all year around. Numerous clinical and sub-clinical studies have validated its safety, effectiveness, and tolerability. In short, All Season Support works by promoting a healthy immune response without any of the side-effects associated with over-the-counter allergy products. While it is best taken as a preventive before allergy season is in full swing, All Season Support can also be taken to help reduce allergy symptoms. While many people experience some benefit within the first couple doses, researchers noted full benefit often occurred after consistent use for 8-10 weeks. In fact, I recently received a call from a customer who told me after two months on All Season Support, he was able to stop taking two different allergy medications. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Healthstore located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

You need Omega-3s

By Michael Ventresca • 13 Jun, 2022 •

Do you eat fatty fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines at least three times every week? Do you take an omega-3 supplement? If not, you are likely not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids and this is a big deal. Omega-3s are nutrients found in a variety of foods that are essential to health. Let me repeat that, omega-3s are essential to your health – heart health, brain health, digestive health, joint health, immune health. In fact, they are key to the structure of every cell wall in your body. And, unlike other nutrients that your body can manufacture, omega-3s must be consumed in the diet. Bottom line, if you’re not eating fatty fish about three times each week, or regularly consuming vegetarian sources like walnuts, hemp seeds, and chia seeds, you are likely preventing your body from being optimally healthy. One quick note about vegetarian sources: generally, the omega-3s from fish (DHA and EPA) more directly enhance your health than those from vegetarian sources. For example, the omega-3s found in walnuts are called ALA. To be used, your body must convert ALA into DHA and EPA. However, this process is highly inefficient making a direct source of DHA and EPA is preferred (more on this below). The good news is omega-3 supplements are plentiful these days. The bad news is, they are so widely available, it’s hard to tell a high-quality, effective product from a rancid, high-heat processed product. If you’re looking for a pure, high-quality fish oil supplement, three brands I really like are Vital Choice Health Store Omega-3 Fish Oil , New Chapter’s Wholemega and Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega . At Vital Choice, we even offer an enteric coated product that minimizes fish ‘burp-back’, a common complaint. But what if you’re vegan or would like to avoid fish? There’s good news. There are some relatively new vegan options that provide DHA and EPA from algae as opposed to fish. Two great products are Nordic Natural’s Algae Omega and New Chapter’s Vegan Omega3 . Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Statins and CoQ10

By Michael Ventresca • 03 May, 2022 •

The information in today's article is so important, I'm going to get right to it - if you take a statin medication to control cholesterol, health experts say you need to take a supplement called CoQ10. While many people are aware of this need, I'm very concerned with the number of people I speak with that are not. Statin medications deplete a critically important nutrient in the body called CoQ10. CoQ10 is concentrated mostly in the heart and liver but is used by virtually every cell in the body. It plays a vital role in energy production and muscle function. Studies show CoQ10 can help with blood pressure, angina and congestive heart failure among other conditions. In fact, it’s so important many natural health experts suggest anyone over 40 should take CoQ10 as a part of their daily health regimen. If anything, you want more CoQ10 in your body, not less. So what happens when cholesterol drugs deplete it? Studies suggest a depletion in CoQ10 can lead to fatigue and muscle pain, in addition to potential liver problems. Not surprisingly, these tend to be the very side effects most people mention with statin medications. According to research, if you're taking a statin medication, you should take CoQ10 daily. Two excellent products are Garden of Life’s Raw CoQ10 and Vital Choice’s CoQH . Both products offer enhanced utilization. Raw CoQ10 is a whole food preparation, while CoQH uses the patented ‘active’ Ubiquinol form. Regardless of your choice, if you take a statin medication, please talk to your pharmacist about adding CoQ10 to your regimen. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Help for heartburn

By Michael Ventresca • 07 Apr, 2022 •

Do you suffer from heartburn, or have you been diagnosed with GERD? If so, you have likely taken an acid neutralizer. Makes sense, right? After all, if you have acid indigestion then you must have too much stomach acid, right? Actually, in most cases the answer is no. In fact, if you have acid reflux you probably don't have enough acid. It is estimated that approximately 40% of people over the age of 40 may suffer from hypochlorhydria or low stomach acid secretion, while only 20% of people have excess stomach acid. Yet, most of the attention (and OTC medications) is geared towards reducing stomach acid. So, how can too little stomach acid cause heartburn? Here’s how it works. When you eat, your body produces more acid. This acid production sends a signal to a valve in your stomach to close, keeping the acid in your stomach from creeping up into the esophagus. However, if your acid production is deficient or suppressed, you’re still producing acid it’s just not enough to send the message to close the valve. Due to inadequate acid, food sits in the stomach longer and eventually acid begins to creep up the esophagus, creating the symptoms of heartburn. So, treating too little acid with an acid neutralizer only makes the problem worse in the long-term! So first, how do you know if your heartburn is from too much or too little acid and second, what can you do? While hardly scientific, one at-home test that many use is the vinegar test. The idea is try some vinaigrette or apple cider vinegar and see how you feel. If you quickly feel discomfort or burning, then you may have too much acid otherwise, acid may not be the culprit of your heartburn. For too much acid, a great option is DGL. DGL is a special preparation of licorice that has been shown to relieve symptoms of heartburn and repair stomach lining without elevating blood pressure. Enzymedica’s Chocolate DGL Gummies are a perfect option. For too little acid, we have had great results with a product called Superzymes. Superzymes combines digestive enzymes with Betaine HCL to enhance digestion and increase stomach acid. For more information or to further discuss your digestive needs, please stop in. Please note, if you are currently taking an acid neutralizer, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist before discontinuing as an acid rebound can occur. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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