Category Archives: Blog

Simplesa Liposomal B12 the Powerhouse Energy Vitamin

January 27, 2017Blog, Nutrition, Resourcesanemia, b12, celiac, cyanocobalamin, heart health, metabolism, Nutrition, red blood cells, simplesa liposomal vitamin b12, vitaminsadmin

Even when you eat well and have a healthy diet you may still not be getting enough vitamin B12. When you are deficient there are symptoms, health risks, but you can easily address the deficiency with a quality B12 supplement.[1]

What is B12?
One form of Vitamin B12 is Methylcobalamin. It is one of the many B vitamins. Your body needs B12 to facilitate the healthy function of nerve tissue, brain function, and red blood cells.

Vitamin B12 is a powerhouse. Your metabolism wouldn’t run smoothly without it. But B12 isn’t like other vitamins. It’s only found in animal products like eggs, meat, shellfish and dairy. Up to 15% of people don’t get enough B12, and they’re more likely to be vegetarians, have celiac disease or other digestion problems, or be an adult over 50. The signs of vitamin B12 deficiency include exhaustion, rapid heartbeat, brain fog, and other symptoms, says Maggie Moon, RD, a Los Angeles–based nutritionist and owner of Everyday Healthy Eating.[2]

Like all B vitamins, vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. The human body does not store it. Any excess or unwanted amounts are excreted through urine. Structurally, vitamin B12 is the most complicated vitamin. It is also the largest.[3]

Why is Vitamin B12 so Important to our body?
Our bodies need vitamin B12 but do not make it and have to acquire it via proper nutrition and/or supplementation. Vitamin B12 is critical in the production of DNA, nerves, red blood cells, and to carry out other metabolic functions. An average healthy adult requires approximately 2.4 micrograms a day, which can be an issue if you’re not consuming enough to meet your bodily needs. Some people may have an adequate intake of the appropriate nutrition, but malabsorption prevents them from utilizing it no matter how much they consume.

As a result, vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common, especially among older people. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey estimated that 3.2% of adults over age 50 have a seriously low B12 level, and up to 20% may have a borderline deficiency.[4]

Do I have a B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be slow to develop, causing symptoms to appear gradually and intensify over time. It can also come on relatively quickly. Given the array of symptoms it can cause; the condition can be overlooked or confused with something else. Symptoms may include:

· strange sensations, numbness, or tingling in the hands, legs, or feet

· difficulty walking (staggering, balance problems)

· anemia

· a swollen, inflamed tongue

· yellowed skin (jaundice)

· difficulty thinking and reasoning (cognitive difficulties), or memory loss

· paranoia or hallucinations

· weakness

· fatigue

While an experienced physician may be able to detect a vitamin B12 deficiency with a good interview and physical exam, a blood test is needed to confirm the condition. Early detection and treatment is important. “If left untreated, the deficiency can cause severe neurologic problems and blood diseases,” says Dr. Bruce Bistrian, chief of clinical nutrition at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.[5]

How can I avoid B12 Deficiency?
Simplesa® has just introduced its newest powerhouse supplement and high quality Liposomal Vitamin B12! Not all B12 vitamins are the same, Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 boasts Methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12 that supports brain and nerve health. With other forms of B12 your liver has to convert cyanocobalamin, another form of B12, into methylcobalamin. Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 is formulated for maximum and rapid absorption.

Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 supports brain and nerve health with increased energy levels by providing methylcobalamin, the only form of vitamin B12 found in the brain. Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 does NOT contain soy ingredients, and the flavors are completely natural and delicious. The liposomes are gluten-free, alcohol-free, vegan, and tested non-GMO.

Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 Benefit vs. Injectable B12
While injectable B12 is a commonly prescribed treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency, it does have some notable drawbacks. Because vitamin B12 injections are intramuscular, they can be difficult to administer to thin patients. Injections are also known to be painful, which may cause some patients to abandon treatment. Moreover, elderly or disabled patients may have difficulties traveling to a physician’s office for injection administration or affording the treatment if they don’t have insurance to cover it. [6] Additionally, the ease and cost savings is substantial via Simplesa Vitamin B12 as it can be easily self-administered at home and has a pleasant taste. One bottle will provide approximately 60 servings at ½ ml (approx. 3 pumps into the mouth) or 1000 mcg per serving.

Some of the many benefits of Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12:

· Contributes to normal red blood cell formation

· Supports the nervous system and mental functions

· Contributes to a normal, healthy metabolism

· Is essential for a healthy heart

Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 uses natural non-hydrogenated sunflower phosphatidylcholine, derived from non-GMO certified oil. It undergoes a several-step solvent-free purification and filtration process to ensure the utmost purity. The manufacturing facility is cGMP certified, following the same standards of sanitation and documentation as pharmaceutical companies. Each ingredient has been carefully sourced and tested in-house and by a third-party certified lab. The water is classified as Ultrapure Water, exceeding pharmaceutical grade standards.

For more information or to try our new Simplesa Liposomal Vitamin B12 click here.

[1] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/
[2] http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20924065,00.html
[3] http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/219822.php
[4] http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/vitamin-b12-deficiency-can-be-sneaky-harmful-201301105780
[5] http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/vitamin-b12-deficiency-can-be-sneaky-harmful-201301105780
[6] http://www.livestrong.com/article/289321-sublingual-vitamin-b12-vs-injectable-b12/

Holidays and Your Health

December 6, 2016Blog, Resourcescaregiver and holidays, disabled holiday, health, Holiday, holidaysadmin

The holidays are frantic and stressful for everyone. If you are disabled or chronically ill, the holidays can present additional stress and potential health risks for you. For the caretaker of a chronically ill person the holiday can add another level of complexity and stress to your already busy life. No one wants to be a Grinch during this time of the year, but it is important to take some extra precautions and preparation to cope.

Per a recent article in the Huffington Post called “5 Ways the Holidays Are Hard on Those with a Chronic Disease (and 10 Ways to Cope)” the author provides advice on how to deal with the barrage of food, activity and traveling that may occur.

Food: Food is at the heart of nearly all holiday celebrations, and usually steaming mounds of not-so-healthy foods like sugary sweet potatoes. Desserts and sweet drinks are in abundance. For a person with a chronic disease, the variety of foods may be tempting or forbidden, or may just strike terror in our hearts or feelings of being bothered. If you’re staying in a hotel, you might be relegated to eating the in-house free breakfast that doesn’t accommodate your diet.

Traveling: Sitting in a car or on a plane for long periods of time can be the breeding ground for physical pain or, at minimum, provide ample time to worry about one’s disease. Traveling also means a change of routine and a lot of unpredictability and extra stress. For example, flying means I have to go through security at the airport, go through a pat-down while the rest of my family stands by waiting, and explain to multiple personnel what my disease is, what my devices do, and no, they cannot be removed from my body for inspection. Time zone and altitude changes can also be difficult.

Activity: Some holiday celebrations include activities which might be out of your typical routine: skiing, going from house-to-house visiting relatives, power-shopping with your mom on Black Friday. These activities can cause your disease to flare-up in undesirable ways, zapping your energy and bringing down your mood. [1]

For the caregiver who is constantly on call, the holidays just might seem like too much. If you know a caregiver the best thing to do this time of year is help. Perhaps offer to cook, shop, or just spend time with them. Many caregivers get burned out and need a break. Some suggestions for caregivers on how to avoid burnout this time of year are found in a great article by Empowher.com called “3 Steps to Avoiding Caregiver Burnout during the Holidays.”[2] The three biggest things to remember is know the signs of when you need a break, take care of yourself, and remember to ask for help. This is often easier said than done for many caregivers. Resources for help can be found at “The National Family Caregiver Association offers many tips and guides on how to take charge and effectively communicate with caregivers. Log on to www.thefamilycaregiver.org or call them at 800-896-3650.”[3] The following great tips were found on Everydayhealth.com[4]:

*Eat healthy and try to exercise every day.

*Indulge in an enjoyable activity as often as you can – read a book, work on a hobby, or watch a movie.

*Pamper yourself with a massage or manicure.

*Keep a journal to record your thoughts and feelings. This can be a good outlet for
frustrations.

* Be in touch with your own body and know when you are becoming ill or run down;
seek medical advice in a timely manner.

*If applicable seek support from your church or synagogue. Besides spiritual support, they often have programs to help caregivers.

*Remember that “laughter is the best medicine.” Try to find some humor in daily situations.

*Join a support group. If you can’t leave the house explore Internet options.

If you know a caregiver or chronically ill person, please remember that one of the best things you can offer this holiday season is love, support, time and help.

[1] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rachel-garlinghouse/5-ways-the-holidays-are-hard-on-those-with-a-chronic-disease-and-10-ways-to-cope_b_8435494.html

[2] http://www.empowher.com/caregiving/content/3-steps-avoiding-caregiver-burnout-during-holidays

[3] http://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/lynda-shrager-the-organized-caregiver/how-to-avoid-caregiver-burnout-this-holiday-season/

[4] http://www.everydayhealth.com/columns/lynda-shrager-the-organized-caregiver/how-to-avoid-caregiver-burnout-this-holiday-season/

Flu Season & Keeping Healthy

October 15, 2016Blog, Resources, Uncategorizedals, FLU, Flu and At Risk, Flu Season, Flu Shot, Vaccinationadmin

The Flu season impacts a lot of people this time of year. There is always a lot of media about getting sick, so we have compiled some useful resources that could come in handy to stay healthy.

When is Flu Season?
The Flu season runs from October into late spring. The CDC says “the flu season begins when certain key flu indicators (for example, levels of influenza-like illness (ILI), hospitalization and deaths) rise and remain elevated for a number of consecutive weeks. Usually ILI increases first, followed by an increase in hospitalizations, which is then followed by increases in flu-associated deaths.” ¹

What is the difference between a Cold and the Flu?
Both a cold and Flu are respiratory illnesses. Typically, a cold is far less severe in nature and duration. Most of us know all too well that a bad cold and related symptoms will usually last for a few days or a week. Lingering symptoms that persist or worsen can indicate you have the Flu or a secondary concern. Flu symptoms can make you ill for days to even weeks.

Why is the Flu a big deal?
No one likes to get sick, and getting a nasty cold during cold weather seems bad enough. A Flu can often be far worse in symptoms, downtime, and complications than a typical cold.
For those with chronic illness or disabilities it can be an incredibly dangerous. A recent article and video from CNN tells many “It’s time to get your flu shot.” Those who are young, old, or at risk from the complications that might occur from the Flu on a weaker immune system need to be protected.

How to protect yourself from the Flu?
One suggested precaution is to get the Flu vaccination / shot. The Flu vaccination this year is “expected to be more effective than last season.” ² It is recommended that not only should high risk people get the shot, but also those who spend time around them. Caretakers and family members also have be cautious as they can be contagious and transmit the Flu.

Why do I need a Flu shot every year?
Many wonder why we need to get another Flu vaccination every year. The reason is simple: the virus changes. A recent article in USA Today states that doctors are anticipating this to be a tough season and a nasty Flu. “Dr. Robin Altman, chief of general pediatrics for Children’s & Women’s Physicians of Westchester, suspects this may be another tough battle with the virus. Altman is urging patients to get vaccinated now, since it takes two weeks for the body to build up immunity. The flu vaccine remains the best protection against the virus.”³

I have ALS should I get the Flu Shot?
Protecting those with ALS from the Flu is very important. The ALS Association wrote a recent article about what you need to know to protect people with ALS from the Flu. Avoiding crowded places or people who are sick with either a cold or Flu is recommended. Some common sense and good hygiene are suggested. Caretakers and family members of those with ALS may want to get vaccinated. ALS patients should always discuss the benefits and risks of getting vaccinated with their doctor. ⁴

A Flu for a person with weak swallowing and respiratory processes represents a significant health issue. Additional information on the Flu Virus and protecting your family and yourself this Flu season can also be found on: http://www.earlydetectionplan.org/

SOURCES

[1] http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/flu-season-2015-2016.htm

[2] http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/07/health/flu-shot-vaccine-2015/

[3] http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/10/05/flu-season-underway/73383394/

[4] http://www.alsa.org/news/vision-express/articles/october-2015/flu-season.html

Managing Quality of Life for ALS Patients

September 16, 2016Blog, Guest Blogals, ALS Caregivers, Patients, quality of lifeadmin

Winning the Fight is a mostly volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit organization that develops and studies nutritional therapies for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). They developed a metabolic program for ALS called the Deanna Protocol® and scientific studies show that the program is indeed effective! Winning the Fight posted a very interesting article on their site and we wanted to share it with you.

Management Versus Cure
Scientists have been seeking a cure for ALS for over 130 years and none has been found. While scientists look for a cure for future ALS patients, thousands of patients currently suffering from ALS die as they wait for that cure to come. The life expectancy for those with ALS is so short that those living with the disease today most likely will not be alive to witness the discovery of a cure. Even if they would be alive when a cure is discovered, the chance of them remaining alive to see that cure gain FDA approval and become readily available to the public is slim.

As you can see, any cure that is found will benefit those diagnosed in the future, not those who have ALS now and are facing a life expectancy of two to five years. Who in the medical community is focusing them? Who is trying to keep them alive and well long enough for a cure to be found?

Winning the Fight, Inc. is the only organization that has bee focusing its research on prolonging the lives of those who have ALS now, improving their quality of life, and maintaining their physical function until a cure is found. This cause is just as worthy as the mission to find a cure, yet Winning the Fight’s research only received .009% of the total funding from last year’s Ice Bucket Challenge. (We received $10,000 and ALS Association received $110,000,000.) Those who are suffering and dying now deserve more than .009% of the nation’s financial commitment to ALS during this year’s ice bucket challenge. Wouldn’t you agree?

If you’d like to donate to organizations looking for a cure, great! You should. Please consider splitting your funds between Winning the Fight and those organizations. There are ALS patients who need you now. Please, give them more than .009%.

You Can Help Improve the Deanna Protocol®by Purchasing from Simplesa!

Simplesa will donate a portion of the proceeds of all sales of Deanna Protocol® products to Winning the Fight and Winning the Fight will use these donations to fund research to optimise the Deanna Protocol®.

About Winning the Fight, Inc. (WFND)

Website: www.winningthefight.org

Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Book:The Deanna Protocol: Hope for AL

Getting Fishy with Omega-3s

July 21, 2016Blog, NutritionDHA, EFA, EPA, Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Jama, Omega 3admin

For a long time, there has been a lot of debate over healthy and unhealthy fats. But it “was the Omega-3 fats that made fish famous.”[1] Fatty Acids are required by our body. Our body does not make Omega -3 and it can only be obtained by certain foods or supplements.

The human body can make most of the types of fats it needs from other fats or raw materials. That isn’t the case for omega-3 fatty acids (also called omega-3 fats and n-3 fats). These are essential fats—the body can’t make them from scratch but must get them from food. Foods high in Omega-3 include fish, vegetable oils, nuts (especially walnuts), flax seeds, flaxseed oil, and leafy vegetables.[2]

Source http://newhope.com/news-analysis/share-educational-omega-3-infographic

Many people, either through poor dietary habits or health concerns, cannot eat the required foods to obtain these critical fats. But remember, not all fats are created equal. Omega-3 fats have been revealed to assist with many of the essential processes of the body and deter health concerns.

Omega-3 fats provide the starting point for making hormones that regulate blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of artery walls, and inflammation. They also bind to receptors in cells that regulate genetic function. Likely due to these effects, omega-3 fats have been shown to help prevent heart disease and stroke, may help control lupus, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis, and may play protective roles in cancer and other conditions.[3]

Simplesa® has just introduced its newest product, Omega 3 EFA (Essential Fatty Acids) which contains 1500 mg of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, 800 mg of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid), 600 mg of DHA (Docosohexanoic Acid) and 100 mg of other Omega-3 Fatty Acids per two soft gel serving. It contains the three main Omega-3 fats in the family of polyunsaturated fats. The blend contains Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and other Omega-3 acids. Simplesa has created a trifecta for one of the highest quality fish oil products on the market. The lemon flavored enteric coated soft gel allows for maximum absorption without the “fish burps” of some other Omega 3 supplements. It is perfect for those who are sensitive to the smell of the fish oil tablets. This super concentrated Omega-3 fish oil is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

High quality lemon flavor fish oil for those who are sensitive to the taste of the fish oil tablets.
Multi-stage molecular distillation process that both concentrates the Omega 3 EPA and DHA and removes environmental toxins.
Concentrated Omega-3 provides an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

The timing of the launch of this new product aligns with a recent JAMA study published on Time.com that was released in June 2016. This study supports the health benefits of Omega-3s.

Recently, a large study led by researchers at Tufts University and published in JAMA Internal Medicine added to the weight of evidence in favor of the fatty acids for heart health. The researchers looked at levels of omega-3s in the blood and tissue of 45,637 healthy people, using data from 19 prospective and retrospective studies, to see if there was a connection to coronary heart disease. They didn’t find a link between omega-3s and heart attacks in general, but they did find that people who had diets rich in fish-derived omega-3s had a lower risk of fatal heart attacks. How impressive the association depended on their omega-3 consumption. For every extra serving or so of fish a week, they saw about a 10% reduction in risk, and people who ate the most fish had about a 24% lower risk of fatal heart attack than people who ate the least. “Evidence from experimental models and animal studies show that a major effect of these omega-3 fatty acids is to stabilize heart membranes,” says Liana Del Gobbo, lead author of the study who is now a research fellow at Stanford University. Stable heart membranes means the heart is less likely to go into life-threatening dangerous rhythms, adds O’Keefe (who was not involved with the study).[4]

Although consumption of important nutrients via diet is always ideal, not everyone can consistently consume the quantities recommended to benefit health. Also, some people just don’t like to eat fish, so finding a quality effective “non” fishy supplement is very important. For more information on Simplesa® Omega 3 please click here.

.[1] http://time.com/4396909/omega-3s-heart-health-fish-oil/?xid=newsletter-brief

[2] https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/omega-3-fats/

[3] https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/omega-3-fats/

[4] http://time.com/4396909/omega-3s-heart-health-fish-oil/?xid=newsletter-brief

Sleep Well and Feel Better – Sleep Complex

July 15, 2016Blog, NutritionCalcium, insomnia, Magnesium, Melatonin, Sleep, sleep and health, Sleep Complexadmin

When did getting enough sleep become such a challenge and complex? For many people, sleeping well is a frustrating and debilitating part of their life. What do you do to help you fall and stay asleep?

Everyone needs differing amounts of sleep to feel rested and maintain their physical and mental well-being. Without the appropriate length and quality of sleep, a person can suffer in how they think, react, and feel. Everyone needs “healthy” sleep. Lack of sleep has been shown to be a factor in “cardiovascular health, obesity, diabetes, and psychological wellbeing.”[1] Lack of sleep is not only an issue for adults but recent studies have found too little sleep can be an issue in children as well. Generally, if our kids are not sleeping neither are the parents. In a recent article on Reuters Health, the dangers of children and teens getting too little sleep are discussed, and it notes new recommendations by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) guidelines.

“At least 25 percent of 12-year-olds get less than the recommended nine hours of sleep per night and there is increasing evidence that this impacts learning and memory,” said Dr. Stuart F. Quan of Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, a coauthor of the new American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) guidelines.[2]

During different parts of your life, you need to sleep to grow, recover from illness, and also maintain the equilibrium of your body’s natural resources. For those with chronic pain from injury or who have a chronic illness, adequate sleep can actually improve the degree of pain. Understandably, that proves to be a catch 22 as many with chronic pain just cannot sleep. Many times, not sleeping is also an indicator of a bigger health issue. If you have always slept well, then suddenly are experiencing problems, looking at your overall health and stress level is important to determine the cause and find a solution.

There is abundant scientific data and links between the lack of sleep as a factor or sign of serious health problems. Sleep deprivation impacts your mind and body on every level. When you are over-tired you’re more likely to get injured, pay less attention to details or safety, your memory is impaired, become more easily angered, and are at a heightened risk to injury and/or accident. You may become unable to focus, very irritable, and or in some severe cases become irrational.

Studies have also shown a direct correlation to sleep deprivation and weight control. This makes sense, as being very tired will discourage you from regular exercise or you may eat unhealthy foods for a quick boost of energy or comfort.

The other part is physiological. The hormone leptin plays a key role in making you feel full. When you don’t get enough sleep, leptin levels drop. Result: people who are tired are just plain hungrier — and they seem to crave high-fat and high-calorie foods specifically.[3]Your Immunity seems impacted by lack of sleep.

There are a lot of myths that suggest what you can or cannot do to fall and stay asleep. Some suggestions to getting more sleep:

Regular Exercise – but not too close to bedtime.
Don’t use television for “white noise” – try relaxing timed music instead.
Avoid prescribed or narcotic sleep aids as they can often can become addictive, and can relieve insomnia but don’t cure it.
Try natural supplements that are healthy and non-addictive.

Simplesa® has a new product that combines all the best herbal and natural ingredients to aid in a healthy and natural sleep. Sleep Complex is a unique dietary sleep supplement with multi-nutrient & herb complex. Simplesa Sleep Complex combines the natural, powerful combination of B-6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), Magnesium (gluconate), Melatonin, Valerian Root Powder, Hops Flower Powder, Passion Flower Powder, and Chamomile Flower Powder. This propriety blend leverages traditional herbalism in a propriety formula. It is recommended to take one to two capsules per evening of the natural sleep supplement, and it will soothe your mind and encourage a natural sleep cycle. Highlights of this natural sleep aid are:

High Absorption Melatonin promotes the body’s natural sleep cycle in a non-addictive sleep aid.
Herbal sleep supplement triggers important natural sleep transmitters within the body and helps to balance hormonal function and the musculoskeletal system.
Proprietary Herbal Sleep Formula eases and calms your body into a natural sleep cycle for a restful night.

These various natural ingredients are known to help sleep:

Calcium is a natural sleep aid that can help you fall asleep and have a restful sleep. The mineral contains tryptophan, an amino acid the body uses to produce melatonin, a natural hormone that helps induce and maintain sleep, the National Sleep Foundation reports. Research shows low calcium levels are associated with disturbed sleep patterns, including the lack of a deep REM sleep phase, according to Medical News Today. When levels of calcium are inadequate, you may wake up soon after falling asleep and have trouble getting back to sleep.[4]

Magnesium is well known for its ability to relieve insomnia. One study found that it helps decrease cortisol, the “stress hormone” that can keep you up at night. It also helps muscles relax, to give you that calm “sleepy” feeling and help you unwind after a long day. On top of helping you get a good night of sleep, it also shows potential as a therapy for depression and other mood disorders.[5]

Melatonin – Your body [naturally] makes melatonin, which helps create the urge to fall asleep,” says Sanjeev Kothare, M.D., director of the pediatric sleep program at NYU Langone Medical Center. “We call it ‘the hormone of the dark’ because it starts rising as it gets late and the light intensity [of the day] goes down.” Melatonin is key in regulating your body’s internal clock, also known as your circadian rhythm, says Andrew Westwood, M.D., a board-certified sleep physician and assistant professor at Columbia University.[6]

Getting a good night sleep just got easier with Simplesa Sleep Complex! For more information on Sleep Complex please click here.

[1] http://www.sleephealthresearch.com/shrp/index.html

[2] http://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-kids-sleep-idUSKCN0YZ2DN

[3] http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/9-reasons-to-sleep-more?page=2

[4] http://www.livestrong.com/article/547625-benefits-of-calcium-before-bed/

[5] http://paleoleap.com/magnesium/

[6] http://dailyburn.com/life/lifestyle/sleep-what-is-melatonin/

Metabolic Support and ALS

June 29, 2016Blog, Deanna Protocol, malnutrition, Nutrition, Supplements, weight managementactual energy intake, als, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, malnutrition, Metabolic Plan, Nutrition, total daily energy expenditureadmin

As children we grew up with our parents and teachers telling us how important eating well was to our health. Our bodies are delicately balanced between nutrition and energy. When we are ill, our body often requires additional energy or that metabolic relationship may become damaged. Some diseases or their symptoms can cause or contribute to the metabolic imbalance. In ALS, as the disease progresses, this imbalance can lead to “malnutrition, common with progression of disease, muscle strength and breathing capacity due to weakening as well as increase the relative risk of death.”[1]

A recent study was released in June 2016 which examined the relationship between nutrition status and the progression of ALS. The study was “Association between estimated total daily energy expenditure and stage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in ALS patients” and it wanted to “investigate the relationship between total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and progression of disease in ALS patients and sex differences in TDEE.”^{^[2]} The highlights of the study were:

●Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) decreased with progression of ALS.
●Energy intake of ALS patients was not sufficient as compared with TDEE.
●Nutrition support should be started before stage 3 of ALS.

370 ALS patients’ TDEE were evaluated and followed in regard to resting energy expenditure (REE) and physical activity. The results were that the TDEE decreased as the ALS progressed. The study suggests:

that TDEE decreases with progression of ALS, and patients consume insufficient energy compared with required intake at all stages, particularly at stage 3, suggesting that nutrition support should be started at least prior to stage 3. Additionally, among the five equations for TDEE, TDEE 2 could be the best for evaluating the nutritional status of ALS patients.[3]

Previous studies and articles have examined the relationship between energy intake (nutrition) and ALS before. In 2014 the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition released the article “Estimating daily energy expenditure in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.” Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) experience progressive limb weakness, muscle atrophy, and dysphagia, making them vulnerable to insufficient energy intake. [4]

As with any chronic illness, nutritional support is critical. The challenge is that the physical symptoms of ALS make energy intake difficult. Proactive and ongoing nutritional support and metabolic balance is important in the overall progression and well-being of the patient.

The study published online “Hypercaloric enteral nutrition in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial” emphasizes the need for a dietary and/or nutritional intervention to offset the metabolic dysfunction PALS experience.

In summary, we believe that our study results provide preliminary evidence for a novel, simple, low-cost, low-risk treatment for this devastating disease. The results of this study also support growing interest in the use of dietary interventions to treat neurological diseases. Our results also support the concept that ALS is a multi-organ systemic disease, characterized by metabolic dysfunction.³ We believe that given the promising results of this pilot study and lack of treatment options for ALS, nutritional interventions should be studied in larger randomized controlled trials at earlier stages of the disease.[5]

Simplesa® offers the metabolic plan called the Deanna Protocol for PALS. This protocol has been found by many ALS patients to help quality of life and slow progression of the disease. Additionally, other nutritional supplements are available to offset the metabolic balance and gain or maintain weight in PALS or others with health concerns where adequate nutritional intake is compromised or inadequate.

[1] http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0004-282X2014000200157

[2] http://www.nutritionjrnl.com/article/S0899-9007(16)30096-X/fulltext

[3] http://www.nutritionjrnl.com/article/S0899-9007(16)30096-X/fulltext

[4]https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262046313_Estimating_daily_energy_expenditure_in_individuals_with_amyotrophic_lateral_sclerosis

[5] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4176708/

The Fight against Neurodegenerative Diseases

June 6, 2016Blog, Deanna Protocolals, Alzheimers, deanna protocol, Lou Gehrig Disease, Muhammad Ali, Neurodegenerative diseases, Neurons, Parkinson's Diseaseadmin

The recent death of Muhammad Ali has saddened a lot of people and reinforced the urgent need to aggressively develop a cure for neurodegenerative diseases. ALS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases have very similar characteristics regarding their causes and symptoms. They also all have no cure and are impacting too many people.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are the second and third most common human adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases, respectively, after Alzheimer’s disease. They are characterized by prominent age-related neurodegeneration in selectively vulnerable neural systems. Some forms of PD and ALS are inherited, and genes causing these diseases have been identified. Morphological, biochemical, and genetic, as well as cell and animal model studies reveal that mitochondria could have a role in this neurodegeneration. The functions and properties of mitochondria might render subsets of selectively vulnerable neurons intrinsically susceptible to cellular aging and stress and overlying genetic variations. In PD, mutations in putative mitochondrial proteins have been identified and mitochondrial DNA mutations have been found in neurons in the substantia nigra. In ALS, changes occur in mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes and mitochondrial cell death proteins.[1]

Beyond the genetic factors to inherit these diseases, many who have had traumatic brain injury are at an increased risk of developing one of these debilitating diseases. Athletes who are involved in boxing, football and hockey, Veterans, and others are especially susceptible:

Over a lifetime, we believe that Parkinson’s and several other neurodegenerative diseases are caused by genetics AND some kind of trigger in a person’s life with age. For example, inflammation in brain tissue caused by either genetic susceptibility or triggered by accumulating cellular proteins and external events, such as severe concussions, will leave the brain more open to injury. [2]

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

ALS attacks the nerve cells located in the brain and spinal cord (motor neurons). As the disease progresses, the patient loses the ability to control muscle movement as the motor neurons die. ALS is a terminal disease currently with no cure. Metabolic treatments like the Deanna Protocol have been reported by patients to improve quality of life for those with ALS. The ALS.org shared this amazing infographic to help increase awareness and knowledge about ALS – See: http://web.alsa.org/site/PageNavigator/Chal15_what_is_ALS.html?_ga=1.11083444.1475505218.1462481428

Parkinson’s Disease

This is a progressive and neurodegenerative disease whose cause and cure is currently unknown. Nerve cells in the brain malfunction and die.

Motor symptoms result from the loss of pigmented neurons or cells in the substantia nigra of the brain. These cells produce dopamine, a chemical responsible for smooth purposeful movement. A decrease in dopamine does not account for all symptoms experienced in PD. Research is ongoing to better understand the pathology of Parkinson’s. [3]

Alzheimer’s Disease

Despite a common misconception, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The damage and death of nerve cells causes the symptoms most commonly associated with this disease:

Loss of Memory
Inability to carry out normal or daily activities
Personality changes

The brain has 100 billion nerve cells (neurons). Each nerve cell connects with many others to form communication networks. Groups of nerve cells have special jobs. Some are involved in thinking, learning and remembering. Others help us see, hear and smell.

To do their work, brain cells operate like tiny factories. They receive supplies, generate energy, construct equipment and get rid of waste. Cells also process and store information and communicate with other cells. Keeping everything running requires coordination as well as large amounts of fuel and oxygen.

Scientists believe Alzheimer’s disease prevents parts of a cell’s factory from running well. They are not sure where the trouble starts. But just like a real factory, backups and breakdowns in one system cause problems in other areas. As damage spreads, cells lose their ability to do their jobs and, eventually die, causing irreversible changes in the brain.[4]

A recent study by researchers from Indiana University, concludes that:

An enzyme that protects the brain against oxidative stress may also protect against the formation of protein clumps – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases. An accumulation of protein clumps is known to occur in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. In Alzheimer’s disease, for example, studies have shown that patients often experience a build-up of a protein called tau, which clumps together in nerve cells to form “tangles.” This process – known as proteinopathy – occurs with different proteins in a variety of brain diseases and is believed to play a role in their progression.[5]

Every day someone we know or love is struggling with the challenges of a neurodegenerative disease, and many are dying. It is important to understand how these diseases are connected so we can find a cure for them all.

The Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Plan for Other Neurodegenerative Conditions

Winning the Fight ® (WFND) plans to begin researching the DP™ Plan and its effectiveness in conditions other than ALS. Why? Other neurodegenerative conditions (such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, concussion, Alzheimer ’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and more) may have different causes, but they all share one common denominator: Glutamate. Regardless of the disease/condition, all nerve cells release excess glutamate into the extracellular space when they die and this glutamate will kill neighboring cells. Therefore, nerve cell death probably spreads throughout the nervous system the same way in all of these conditions. Since the DP™ Plan manages the spread of neuron death, it could likely help manage all neurodegenerative conditions, regardless of their initial cause.

WFND has one case study showing that the DP™ Plan is extremely effective in dramatically reversing the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease, even in the advanced stages of the disease. This further encourages us to test Dr. Tedone’s hypothesis that the DP™ Plan may manage many conditions aside from ALS. They plan to conduct research testing the DP™ Plan’s effectiveness in the neurodegenerative conditions mentioned above. They also plan to test the effectiveness of the combination of the DP™ Plan and GOT in each of the aforementioned conditions above. Lastly, they aim to customize the DP™ Plan and the DP™ Plan/ GOT combination for each distinct disease.[6]

For more information on the DP™ visit: https://www.simplesanutrition.com/deanna-protocol/

[1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20413846

[2] http://www.mcleanhospital.org/news/2016/06/05/fighting-parkinsons-lab

[3] http://www.apdaparkinson.org/parkinsons-disease/understanding-the-basics/

[4] http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_what_is_alzheimers.asp#brain

[5] http://sourceinformer.com/index.php/2016/06/05/neurology-neuroscience-alzheimers-dementia-parkinsons-disease-muscular-dystrophy-als-brain-enzyme-could-prevent-alzheimers-neurodegenerative-disease/

[6] http://www.winningthefight.org/why-the-deanna-protocolreg-plan-works.html

Nutritional Challenges for PALS

May 18, 2016Blog, Deanna Protocol, weight managementdeanna protocol, Nutrition, retain, weight managementadmin

May is ALS Awareness month, and during this time of raising awareness it is also important to discuss some things that can help PALS with maintaining their quality of life. Nutritional concerns are an issue for anyone facing any disabling disease. Every type of illness impacts people differently and maintenance of nutritional and key vitamin balance is critical for well-being. The ALS Association wrote an article called “Maintaining Adequate Nutrition: A Continuing Challenge in ALS,” which provides some helpful information on the challenges of getting and maintaining appropriate nutrition and the impact on quality of life for PALS. Getting adequate nutrition can be hard for even a healthy individual, but for someone with a disabling disease like ALS, who will face the additional issues of difficulty or loss of the ability to swallow, it is life threatening.

Supplements are often recommended by medical providers to help ALS/MND patients get the appropriate nutrition they need. This means getting adequate calories, vitamins and minerals. This is in addition to the ingredients in the Deanna Protocol (DP™ Plan), which have been shown in studies, and reported by many PALS, to improve quality of life.

The DP™ Plan is a natural, drug-free, and inexpensive metabolic program developed for ALS. Scientific studies have proven that the DP™ Plan significantly slows the progression of ALS and extends life span.[1] The goal of the DP™ Plan is to provide energy to the nerve and muscle cells to prevent them from dying. To do this, the DP™ Plan includes a list of several supplements that are taken in doses throughout the day. These supplements may be found online by doing an internet search for each supplement individually, or Simplesa® makes products in powder or liquid form and combines several of the supplements into single products. The Winning the Fight website provides very detailed information on how the DP Plan is helping not only ALS patients but is also now being tested and used on others with Neurodegenerative diseases. Some of the key points in regard to metabolic and nutritional importance of the DP Plan are explained by Winning the Fight®:

Glutamate, ALS, and Cell Death
To understand the basis for the Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Plan, one must first consider the pathology in neurodegenerative conditions in general and ALS specifically. Death of motor neurons spreads throughout the body in individuals with ALS due to glutamate. When cells die, they burst and release intracellular glutamate into the extracellular space. This increase in extracellular glutamate causes neighboring healthy motor neurons to die, to burst, and to release more glutamate into extracellular space, which will kill even more neighboring cells. This so-called storm of glutamate in ALS causes cell death to happen at an exponential rate. (The spread of cell death via excess extracellular glutamate has already been proven in other neurodegenerative conditions, such as traumatic brain injury. It has not yet been proven in ALS research. However, we know that all cells release glutamate when they die and that excess extracellular glutamate kills neighboring cells, regardless of the disease/condition.)

Dr. Tedone, Winning the Fight’s Medical Liaison, hypothesizes that somehow, the exposure to excess extracellular glutamate in ALS kills neighboring healthy neurons by interrupting the Krebs Cycle in each of them. Dr. Tedone’s hypothesis holds that this Krebs Cycle interruption is a chief cause of cell death. After all, when cells cannot produce energy efficiently, they die.

How the Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Plan Stops Cell Death Caused by Extracellular Glutamate in ALS
Does the Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Plan (DP™ Plan) neutralize the excess extracellular glutamate in ALS? No. the DP™ Plan focuses on cell metabolism. The DP™ Plan delivers Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) to the Krebs Cycle in the neurons. The increase in AKG enables their mitochondria to produce enough energy to keep cells alive, despite their exposure to an unhealthy amount of extracellular glutamate. AKG usually does not pass through the cell membranes in normal healthy cells. Based on our experience, we found that the permeability of the cell membrane in diseased or damaged cells changes and allows AKG to permeate the cells. Due to the fact that AKG only enters diseased cells, the substance only goes where it is needed. [2]

The needs of anyone who has a disabling disease when it comes to nutrition is complex and varies from individual and disease. One common factor is the importance to maintain weight, nutritional balance, and allow the person enough energy to fight the disease and also maintain quality of life. For more information on the Deanna Protocol, please feel free to contact is for additional information.

[1] http://www.winningthefight.org/deanna-protocolreg-metabolic-plan-for-als.html

[2] http://www.winningthefight.org/why-the-deanna-protocolreg-plan-works.html

Lyme Disease and ALS

April 5, 2016Blog, Uncategorizedals, LYME DISEASE, Simplesaadmin

There is a lot of controversy regarding the connection between Lyme disease and ALS.

To understand the debate, let’s discuss some basics of both diseases as described by the experts.

What is Lyme Disease:

Most people know that you get Lyme Disease from an infected tick, but many people don’t understand or realize the damage caused by Lyme Disease. If left untreated, the disease can lead to severe and life threatening medical issues.

“Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne illness in the United States, is a multi-system illness usually caused by infection with the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi and the body’s immune response to the infection.[1] The disease is transmitted to humans via tick bites, from infected ticks of the genus Ixodes.”[1]

What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. Life expectancy following a diagnosis is two to five years.

“Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rapidly progressive, invariably fatal neurological disease that attacks the nerve cells (neurons) that are responsible for controlling voluntary muscles (muscle action we are able to control, such as those in the arms, legs, and face). This disease belongs to a group of disorders known as motor neuron diseases, which are characterized by the gradual degeneration and death of motor neurons.”[2]

How are these two diseases different?

ALS is currently an incurable disease. Lyme disease can be treated when discovered in a timely manner by antibiotics. If left untreated, Lyme disease can result in devastating medical problems and death. Lyme disease is known to mimic many of the symptoms of other diseases causing issues on diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Because ALS and Lyme disease can exhibit similar symptoms, incidents of misdiagnosis of Lyme Disease as ALS have been reported. This very recent case reported by NBC highlights a misdiagnosis of ALS when the patient actually had Lyme disease. The patient’s doctor insisted he had ALS, and they accepted the reality of this diagnosis.

“Matt remembered.”He said, “Enough’s enough. The reality is, you have ALS, and you know, you really need to embrace what I am telling you.” Matt’s family was told to help him come to terms with his death.

But inside their home, the Slatner family was doing their own research on Lyme symptoms and everything kept pointing to those tick bites.

“Every single thing is a Lyme symptom,” Stephanie said, remembering the long days and nights of research, three busy kids, and a husband who was slowly fading away. “No one would listen. I mean, they made us both feel like we were crazy.”[3]

Does everyone with ALS have Lyme?

“Lyme disease does not cause ALS, and generally in a diagnostic workup, a neurologist can easily separate ALS from Lyme infections, either clinically or with testing.”[4]

Despite the current belief that Lyme disease does not cause ALS, some studies have shown that many PALS do test positively for Lyme. This has caused a lot of disagreement between physicians and patients citing high statistical evidence of Lyme in many patients with ALS as more than just a coincidence.

Lyme Disease mimics other diseases

( Image Ref: http://lymediseaseguide.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/lyme-disease-treatment-diagnosis.gif)

Does Lyme cause ALS?

Many ALS patients have tested positively for Lyme disease, but not all Lyme patients develop ALS. Currently, there is no definitive proof that Lyme disease causes ALS. Although often mistaken for ALS with similar symptoms, Lyme can be treated with antibiotics and other protocols dependent on the severity and progression. A cure for ALS still has not been found, but the Deanna Protocol has been shown to help with quality of life.

This topic continues to be a source of debate among physicians and PALS, with controversy evident on the internet and social media. If you are bitten by a tick, please seek medical attention immediately.

For more information on Lyme Disease: visit http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/

For more information on ALS: http://www.alsa.org/about-als/

[1] Ref: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/330178-overview

[2] Ref: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/amyotrophiclateralsclerosis/detail_ALS.htm

[3] http://m.nbc12.com/nbc12/db/345738/content/i7HSWfXF/gallery

[4] https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/five-myths-about-als/2014/08/22/70007ef2-2842-11e4-86ca-6f03cbd15c1a_story.html

PALS and Nutrition

March 22, 2016Blog, Guest Blogals, deanna protocol, Lou Gehrig Disease, MND, Neurodegenerative diseases, Nutrition, PALS, Sarah Martinadmin

Guest Post by Sarah Martin

My name is Sarah Martin. I am a junior neuroscience major at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. When I was 14 years old and a sophomore at the Illinois Mathematics
and Science Academy, my principal and close friend, Dr. Eric McLaren, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that
affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Since his diagnosis, I have been
passionate about fighting ALS. I conduct research at universities in the Midwest, attend support groups in the Chicagoland area to meet pALS and their families, blog about my journey to a cure for the disease, speak at schools about ALS and so much more! Dr.
McLaren passed away from ALS in June of 2014, but I have made it my life’s mission to
put an end to this disease. My future plans include earning a doctorate degree,
becoming an ALS researcher, and helping develop an effective treatment for ALS.
The most important part of my ALS work is the people with ALS (pALS). During my time
at ALS support groups, I have learned that because the disease is characterized by
muscle weakness and atrophy, there are a handful of challenges pALS may face in
regards to eating. Difficulties with upper body coordination may make it difficult to
prepare meals. Weakness of tongue and facial muscles may not only make it tough to
safely chew and swallow food, but can also prolong mealtimes. In addition, aspiration of
solids or liquids into the lungs can result in aspiration pneumonia. pALS may experience
a loss of appetite and fatigue which can make eating a difficult task. As ALS progresses
in a person, the amount of calories consumed typically decreases.
Proper nutrition is vital. The human body requires various nutrients to function. Due to
decreased food intake in ALS, it can be difficult to maintain nutritional needs, but there
are nutritionists, dietitians and other experts working to improve the nutritional status of
pALS. In order to maintain the nutritional needs of pALS, tips for safer chewing and
swallowing techniques can be utilized, such as taking smaller bites, eating slowly and
sitting in an upright position while eating. Healthcare professionals can also assist in
making decisions regarding alternate feeding options, such as a feeding tube.
Maintaining the nutritional needs of pALS is important as it can help slow down the
muscle breakdown process and prevent a decrease in weight loss (nutrition-related). It
can also help keep the immune system strong and improve the quality of life for those
with ALS!

For More Information about Sarah Martin contact:

Sarah’s Mission
A woman on a mission to end ALS/MND/Lou Gehrig’s disease
Follow my journey at www.sarahmartinals.com
missionsarahs@gmail.com

Deanna Protocol – Nutritional/Metabolic Protocol for People with ALS

February 3, 2016Blog, Deanna Protocol, Supplementsals, deanna protocol, Simplesa, Tedone, WFNDadmin

The Deanna Protocol: Help with ALS

A diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may leave you feeling overwhelmed, scared, angry, depressed and confused. But there is hope and help with the Deanna Protocol®.

ALS

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. In ALS, nerve cells that control your muscles degenerate and die, leading to loss of function, including the ability to move, eat, speak and breathe. Life expectancy following a diagnosis is two to five years.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that ALS affects about 1.6 people per 100,000 population in the United States and that about 5,000 people are diagnosed with ALS each year. Researchers have found that in patients with ALS:

Nerve cells lose energy
Without energy the nerve cells die
Glutamate, a neurotransmitter (a chemical that sends messages from nerve cells to muscle cells) byproduct of cell metabolism, is present in excessive amounts

These findings led to the development of the Deanna Protocol.

The Deanna Protocol

In 2009, Dr. Vincent Tedone, a retired orthopedic surgeon, was motivated to research alternative ALS therapies when his 30-year-old daughter, Deanna, was diagnosed with the disease. He wondered if ALS could be treated similarly to diabetes, a disease in which the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas produce little or no insulin, causing high glucose levels in the blood that can damage the heart, kidneys and other organs and systems. Diabetes treatment consists of replacing the missing insulin. Dr. Tedone theorized that replacing the missing metabolic enzymes that provide cells with energy would slow ALS progression.

As a result, Dr. Tedone put together the Deanna Protocol, a metabolic therapy, that has been shown to improve muscle function, reduce symptoms and increase longevity in mice with ALS. Although no human clinical trials have been conducted at this time, patient testimonials about reduced symptoms, improved functioning and better quality of life support these findings.

The Deanna Protocol consists of:

Daily intake of naturally occurring metabolic supplements to supply energy to the cells and antioxidants
Massage with extra virgin coconut oil
Nonexhaustive exercise, including resistance training and aerobics

For more information about the Deanna Protocol, visit Winning the Fight or Simplesa®, a nutritional supplement company.

Simplesa®

Simplesa® is a nutritional supplement company that has developed formulations based on the Deanna Protocol. Simplesa products are the first-ever specific vitamins and supplements for ALS patients, making it easy and affordable to follow the Deanna Protocol. For more information, visit Simplesa.

Additional Support and Resources

Additional help is available from the ALS Association. This national nonprofit organization is dedicated to researching a cure for ALS and providing resources and assistance to ALS patients and their families. Visit their website to find educational materials for both patients and caregivers and for access to local programs and services that can help you cope with ALS.

Exciting News for ALS Stem Cell Treatment

January 26, 2016Blog, Resourcesals, als treatment, Hadassah Medical Center, Israel, News, stem celladmin

The news is buzzing with a groundbreaking study released with very promising results in the last week for ALS patients. The ALS Clinical Trial results indicate that the new Stem Cell Treatment inhibits ALS Disease progression in 87% of patients.

Those with ALS / Lou Gehrig’s disease have had very little hope or agreement from doctors on pharmaceuticals or methods to slow the progression of the disease. The recent announcement offers encouraging results that a new stem cell treatment can help some patients. The process evaluated by the study involves the collection of bone marrow stem cells from the patient. After the stem cells are gathered they are treated in a proprietary process. Once the stem cells are ready, they are then directly administered into the patient’s spinal fluid.

Dr. Dimitrios Karussis and his colleagues at Hadassah Medical Center in Israel reported that the treatment not only helped in stopping ALS progression but the same patients showed “notable improvement in their neurological functions.” The sentiment form the ALS researcher is that they are onto something “big” in treating ALS.

Denise Dador of ABC 7 of Chicago noted on January 12, 2016 12 that:

Researchers followed 26 patients for the past four years and 90 percent of patients experienced improvements in walking, talking and hand movement within a month of treatment and the results lasted for several months.

Karussis’ most compelling story is how well the new therapy helped a 22-year-old ALS patient.

“The disease completely stopped progressing and he had a significant improvement in many of his functions including his ability to speak and his motor functions of the hands,” Karussis said.

Neurologist Cliff Segil of Providence St. John’s Medical Center in Santa Monica said it’s easy to create tissue from stem cells, but motor-neurons are a completely different challenge.

That’s why Israeli doctors partnered with biotech firm BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, which pioneered the cocktail of growth factors added to stem cells.

The process encourages cells to become neurons.

“If this study pans out and they repeat these results in the U.S., and we get 26 patients in the U.S. with similar results, it would really change ALS forever,” Segil said.

The article states that “similar studies are underway at the Mayo Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston University.”[1]

The potential for similar methodology to be implemented on other neuro degenerative or motor diseases is also being considered and evaluated. For more information about this treatment please see the press release:

Jama Neurology Releases Highly Promising Data from ALS Clinical Trial Conducted By Hadassah Medical Organization Jerusalem and Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics

“In the clinical trial of intrathecal infusion of stem cells there were no major adverse effects, and close to 90% of patients showed slowing in the progression of disease, as measured by their respiratory function or their general motor disability” — Principal Investigator Dr. Dimitrios Karussis, MD, PhD, Sr. Neurologist, HMO Neuro

Other metabolic programs exist to help improve the quality of life for ALS patients until a cure is found. Simplesa offers the Deanna Protocol^® which is a part of the Winning the Fight Program for ALS. It is an all-natural metabolic program developed by Dr. Vincent Tedone through his research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Scientific studies conducted on the Deanna Protocol^® by Winning the Fight have shown that it benefits individuals with ALS. To view research studies, CLICK HERE.

Please check back as we post updates on this treatment and other important news for ALS patients, families, and caregivers on our site and social media.

[1] http://abc7chicago.com/health/hope-for-als-treatment-after-groundbreaking-study/1156176/

Deanna Protocol Bundles – New Year, New Options, Lower Pricing

January 11, 2016Blog, Deanna Protocol, SupplementsAAKG, als, deanna protocoladmin

Each New Year provides new opportunities to grow and help expand our efforts to our customers. The last year saw heightened attention and popularity of the Deanna Protocol.

A Recap of the Deanna Protocol®

The Deanna Protocol^® is an all-natural metabolic program developed by Dr. Vincent Tedone through his extensive research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Scientific studies conducted on the Deanna Protocol^® by Winning the Fight have shown that it benefits individuals with ALS.

Simplesa offers several choices for the Deanna Protocol®

Simplesa® understands your struggle with ALS as well as the expense and financial burden for many who want to follow the protocol. The popularity of the Deanna Protocol has enabled us to lower our costs and pass those savings on to you. We’ve reduced the price of the Deanna Protocol Bundle Packs. The additional bundle choices include preferences for powders, capsules or liquids in the bundles. Our goal is to make following the Deanna Protocol as simple and cost effective as possible for you!

The one thing that has not changed is that you will still get the same quality products and service you’ve always received from Simplesa!

What are the changes in the bundles for following the Deanna Protocol?

Simplesa has created new bundle packs for those choosing not to follow the full Deanna Protocol Comprehensive Approach, but instead follow core approaches.

We now offer a more varied and flexible approach with more choices for you:

1. “CORE” Bundles contain the DP Plan Essentials;

2. “Plus” Bundles which add Liposomal Glutathione to the Core Bundles;

3. “Comprehensive” Bundles for an all-inclusive approach.

What are the differences between the three options?

1. The “CORE” Bundles contain all of the DP™ Plan Essentials nutrients: AAKG, AKG, Ubiquinol, GABA, Niacin and 5-HTP.

a. You will see two options for the CORE Bundles

i. “CORE” Bundle 1 – includes AKG+ Capsules

ii. “CORE” Bundle 2 – includes AKG Liquids

1. The difference between the two “CORE” Bundles are the choice of AKG+ Capsules or AKG Liquids

2. The “PLUS” Bundles contain all of the DP™ Plan Essentials nutrients plus Liposomal Glutathione, considered the best antioxidant for the central nervous system.

a. You will see two options for the “PLUS” Bundles

i. You get the “Core” Bundle 1 plus you get Liposomal Glutathione

ii. You get the “CORE” Bundle 2 plus you get Liposomal Glutathione

3. The “COMPREHENSIVE” Bundles contain all of the DP™ Plan Essentials nutrients plus Liposomal Glutathione and the AM & PM Blends. Liposomal Glutathione is considered the best antioxidant for the central nervous system. The AM & PM Blends contain 20 nutrients that support muscle and nerve health based on research from the NIH. All are included in the Winning the Fight Program for ALS.

a. The “COMPREHENSIVE” BUNDLES give you 4 choices

i. “COMPREHENSIVE” Bundle 1 or Bundle 2 include a choice of “CORE” 1 or 2 Bundle plus Liposomal Glutathione and AM & PM Powder Blends

1. The difference is the choice of AKG+ Capsules or AKG Liquids combined with the AM & PM Powder Blends

ii. “COMPREHENSIVE” Bundle 3 or Bundle 4 include the “CORE” 1 or 2 Bundle plus Liposomal Glutathione and AM & PM Liquid Blends

1. The difference is the choice of AKG+ Capsules or AKG Liquids combined with the AM & PM Liquid Blends

How will these changes in Simplesa® Bundles help me?

You now have more choices on how you can follow the Deanna Protocol and at lower prices.

Please click here to explore the new choices and savings on Simplesa® Deanna Protocol Bundles. If you have questions or need help please contact – we are here to help.

ALS research study on support for children and young people affected by ALS.

December 17, 2015Blog, Guest Blogals, ALS Caregivers, ALS Support Group, Children of ALS, research studyadmin

Guest Blog by Oliver Clabburn

ALS is a disease that not only affects the person diagnosed, but also those that are around. For this reason, it is often called a ‘family disease’ as it impacts upon the whole household. This means that many children and young people will unknowingly fall into a caring role and will begin to help with duties that are not often associated with ‘normal childhood’.

My family and ALS

I was 7 when my Dad was diagnosed with the disease and I remember being confused as to why things at home were changing. Initially things seemed great. Dad had to stop working because his speech became too slurred, but this meant he would be at home to help with homework when I got back from school each day!

This didn’t last long though as the disease progressed and his physical body began to slowly deteriorate. Soon enough, the routine of how to pick him up became second nature as falls around the house became more and more frequent. Things gradually got worse and I had to start helping with things like feeding, medication and toileting. Yet, it all seemed normal to a ten-year old and I assumed that all kids do this, right?

For the final period of his life, my Dad moved into a local hospice and received the most incredible care that he, and my family deserved. Yet with all of the best care in the world, ALS will always win and he eventually lost his battle in 2004. It was at this stage that things started to become ‘real’ to me and the challenges of dealing with bereavement kicked in.

Current Day

Fast forward to the current day and I’m carrying out a PhD in the UK. My area of research is children and young people who provide care for family members with ALS, and also, young people who are bereaved due to the disease.

When I started my doctorate, I began to investigate different ways of supporting young people affected by the disease. I began to think about my experience and what I found supportive whilst I helped to care and later grieve. People often talk about the power of photographs when remembering people who have died. Unfortunately, my Dad was a keen photographer which meant that there were very few photos with him in them as he always took them! There was however, the answer-phone recording which I would listen to over and over when I was home alone. Sometimes I wouldn’t even listen to the words, and instead, I would hear the individual letters or the tone of his voice and try to imagine what he would sound like saying other things and ‘talking’ to me. Upon reflection, this was my way of reconnecting with him and gradually processing the idea that he had gone. More importantly, it was something I could do by myself and at my pace by pressing the play button on the answering-machine.

I wanted my PhD research to investigate ways of supporting young people who provide care or are bereaved due to ALS. I soon found myself reading up about ‘digital legacies’. A digital legacy is the various things that people create digitally or online which often remain in existence when someone has died. For example, a person’s email or Facebook account which is full of their photographs, messages and memories. This made me think of Dad’s answer phone message and how this was an early type of digital legacy with his voice being stored in a type of digital existence, and more importantly, how this helped and supported me when he had died.

It got me thinking that with the advances in technology, young carers or bereaved young people would not have to settle for a short answerphone message, and that there could be something better out there.

My Study

My doctoral research is exploring purposefully recorded digital legacies as a means of support for children and young people affected by ALS. People with the disease record a series of videos about their life, memories, accomplishments and messages specifically for a child in their family. The videos are then exported to a DVD or cloud source which is given to the child to use whenever he/she wishes to reconnect and remember. I am going to focus particularly on people’s experiences of creating and using a digital legacy and I am now recruiting participants!

I am hoping to interview around 10 people from the following three groups from now until April 2017:

People with ALS who are recording/have already recorded a digital legacy for a child or young person in their family.

Young people (aged 11-24) who are currently caring for a family member with ALS and use a pre-recorded digital legacy as a means of support.

Young people (aged 11-24) who are bereaved due to losing a family member who had ALS and are using a pre-recorded digital legacy to support them whilst they grieve.

The interview will take place either face-to-face or through Skype, depending on location and preference of those taking part. The interview will last about 30 minutes and will be audio recorded.

If you, or someone you know would like to find out more about my study, or, how to create a video based digital legacy, please visit my research page www.facebook.com/mndlegacy

Support your Bones

December 10, 2015Blog, Supplementsbone health, Magnesium, OsteoGuard, Simplesa, vitamin Dadmin

Support your Bones

Our bones are the foundation of our body. If our framework is weak, we will fall, figuratively and literally. Because we don’t see them, the health of our bones are often overlooked until we have a problem.

When you think about fitness, do you consider the condition of your bones?

Did you know that bones are actually living and growing tissue? Like any other living thing, if not given the proper nutrition your bones will suffer. Even with proper diet and exercise, age and disease can result in bone loss for men and women. During and after menopause many women will see a sharp decline in estrogen. This drop can result in significant loss of bone density. The National Osteoporosis Association describes some of the bone concerns for women and why:

Being female puts you at risk of developing osteoporosis and broken bones. Here are some facts:

Of the estimated 10 million Americans with osteoporosis, about eight million or 80% are women.
Approximately one in two women over age 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis.
A woman’s risk of breaking a hip is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.

There are multiple reasons why women are more likely to get osteoporosis than men, including:

Women tend to have smaller, thinner bones than men.
Estrogen, a hormone in women that protects bones, decreases sharply when women reach menopause, which can cause bone loss. This is why the chance of developing osteoporosis increases as women reach menopause.^{^[1]}

Men have to be concerned with bone health and loss as well. For men it can result from testosterone, calcium, or Vitamin D deficiency. Any of these issues can arise at various times in a man’s life.

Lifestyle and diet can also cause nutritional deficiencies that result in inadequate amounts of key vitamins and nutrients required for bone health. Lack of exercise due to inactivity or illness can weaken the bones, increasing the risk of fracture. Some medical conditions can trigger a breakdown in calcium or vitamin absorption to the bones, as can some of the medications used to treat these diseases.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) indicates that the following medicines may cause bone loss:

Aluminum-containing antacids
Anti-seizure medicines (only some) such as Dilantin® or Phenobarbital
Aromatase inhibitors such as Arimidex®, Aromasin® and Femara®
Cancer chemotherapeutic drugs
Cyclosporine A and FK506 (Tacrolimus)
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) such as Lupron® and Zoladex®
Heparin
Lithium
Medroxyprogesterone acetate for contraception (Depo-Provera®)
Methotrexate
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Nexium®, Prevacid® and Prilosec®
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Lexapro®, Prozac® and Zoloft®
Steroids (glucocorticoids) such as cortisone and prednisone
Tamoxifen® (premenopausal use)
Thiazolidinediones such as Actos® and Avandia®
Thyroid hormones in excess

Note: This list may not include all medicines that may cause bone loss.^{^[2]}

Bone health can be addressed with your physician through exercise and nutritional supplementation. Simplesa’s new product called OsteoGuard combines nutrients known to supply bones with the minerals they need to help strengthen the bone itself and the tissues that surround and support the bone, as well as reduce the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Additional vitamins are included to ensure that important minerals make it from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream and into bone.

For more details on OsteoGuard go to: http://www.simplesanutrition.com/products/osteoguard-120-tablets.html

[1] http://nof.org/articles/235

[2] http://nof.org/articles/6

Simplesa OsteoGuard™ is taken twice a day, two tablets per serving, and ideally spaced twelve hours apart for maximum absorption. Each bottle of contains 120 tablets for a 30-day supply.

Health and Holidays

November 25, 2015Blog, Resourcescaregiver and holidays, disabled holiday, health, holidaysadmin