Tag Archives: als

This Helps Protect Dopamine Producing Cells

May 24, 2023Nutrition, Parkinson's, Supplementsals, brain health, brain supplement, dopamine supporting supplement, natural dopamine support, parkinsons, reducing cellular damageDaniel Deyette

“The memory of the feeling at that moment is still so vivid,” Sean recalls. “It felt as if the life completely drained out of my right arm from the elbow down.” A month later, he began to notice reduced dexterity in his right hand. Sean initially attributed these feelings to natural causes.

Eventually though, Sean saw a doctor and diagnosed him with Parkinson’s. “As laid in bed, I thought… How did this happen? What did I do wrong? What caused this?”

Normally, brain cells are protected by antioxidants like this one.

Parkinson’s diagnosis is often confirmed by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons within the substantia nigra portion of the brain. This is mostly due to age, genetic factors and environmental toxins that cause oxidative stress.

That stress causes damage to neurons within the brain.

Our glutathione levels tend to decline with age. Some of that is due to chronic inflammation, stress or diet… but there’s lots of possible reasons for it.

Ultimately, reduced glutathione leads to far more cellular damage.

It’s one of the causes of problems such as memory loss, mood disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Fortunately, there are ways to increase your glutathione levels and support your brain health. One of them is taking glutathione supplements, which can provide a direct source of this antioxidant to your cells.

Studies have shown that easily absorbed glutathione supplements can improve cognitive function, reduce oxidative stress markers, and enhance mitochondrial function in older adults.

That’s why we produce this liposomal glutathione.

It’s basically glutathione that has been packaged within a liposome, which is a little pocket of fat cells. This format not only helps preserve the nutrient but also makes it easier to absorb.

It’s far less invasive than injections, costs less and is easier to take for those who aren’t able to take tablets or supplements.

Neuro-Health Protocol: Why Some Don’t Get Results

May 23, 2023Blog, Nutrition, Supplementsals, Alzheimers, dementia, dosage, exercise, Nutrition, parkinsons, symptom reduction, treatmentDaniel Deyette

Caring for someone who’s managing a neurological condition is a difficult road. Sometimes it can feel like you’re doing all the right things and still not seeing a change in their symptoms.

While everyone’s body, genetics and situation are different, we wanted to take a moment and cover some of the aspects of Neuro-Health Protocol.

#1. Consistency

Taking the protocol on a consistent schedule helps ensure a consistent supply of the amino acids, nutrients and minerals that help relieve symptoms. That’s why our system is broken up into a morning, afternoon and evening dosage plan.

#2. Dosage

The amount of each supplement needed is different for everyone. Some are only moderately deficient of the amino acids and nutrients and will need less. You can increase the dosage of AAKG daily by two grams per day every day to a maximum level of 18 grams.

Our protocol for following the recommended dose schedule is on this page.

#3. Activity

It’s a good idea to encourage exercise to help stimulate and maintain the muscles. It’s not a good idea for those on the protocol to overdo it though… Even light resistance exercises and stretches are beneficial.

#4. Diet

Some research shows a mediterranean diet can boost energy and help deal with symptoms of neuro-health disorders. The main thing is to avoid foods high in saturated fats, processed foods or those high in sugar. It’s also best to avoid large amounts of alcohol or foods that require a lot of chewing energy.

#5. Supplements

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has put together a list of recommended nutritional supplements for Parkinson’s (and similar neuro-health diseases) for daily use. Most of these vitamins and minerals and in the appropriate dosages for healthy adults are available in Total Health AM.

While none of these are a cure, they’re often enough to help slow the progression and put you back in control.

The best thing we can do is increase the number of amazing memories and moments with our loved ones and increase quality of life.

Why Many Doctors Are Still DiscoveringThe Incredible Benefits of AKG and AAKG

May 23, 2023Blog, Nutritionaakg benefits, aakg studies, als, Nutrition, parkinsons aakg, why aakgDaniel Deyette

In the 17th century, Captains sailed from port to port trying to outrun Scurvy. The British Navy alone lost 133,000 sailors to it. It wasn’t until the 1960’s when clinical trials clearly demonstrated it was curable by access to fresh fruit or Vitamin C.

Modern antibiotics were available in ancient Egypt, but modern doctors didn’t discover and administer them until the 1950’s.

L-arginine, AAKG and AKG like this one are still ‘new’

When you consider how fast scientific research is funded, conducted and released to the public, these supplements are a very recent discovery.

The unfortunate thing is… not every substance and application that deserves testing and study is actually funded each year.

The big question is… Should you trust that AKG could actually help?

Our bodies already produce high levels of Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)… but after age 40, levels of AKG drop dramatically. Everyone’s body needs it, but it would be unrealistic to eat enough of the foods that could replace it.

AKG is responsible for at least 600 enzymatic reactions in our body. For instance, AKG is the primary enzyme group we use to make glutathione for our red blood cells.

New studies proving its benefits are released all the time.

Here’s just some of them:

Alpha-ketoglutarate increases life span, reduces frailty and reduces inflammation in middle-aged mice (1)
AKG has been shown to have a protective effect against osteoporosis (2)
Dietary AKG may improve protein metabolism and synthesis in older adults (3)
When combined with Vitamin B, AKG may be essential in long-term nerve strength, memory, and neurotransmission (4,5)
In mice, AKG inhibited liver disease progression (5)
AKG has been shown to improve kidney function in patients with chronic renal failure (5)
Topical AKG reduces skin wrinkle formation by increasing collagen production (6)
AKG prevents skeletal muscle degradation and muscle atrophy (7)
AKG can prevent the brain from oxidative damage by increasing neuronal concentrations of antioxidative enzymes (8)

There’s no doubt that Alpha-Ketoglutarate has a lot of potential benefits… but the real question is…

Does it matter where you buy it?

We think it does. You don’t always know where or how some brands source their ingredients. We’ve fought hard to find the most pure, easily absorbed and naturally sourced ingredients produced right here in the USA.

Potency is important. That’s why you may not need as much of our AKG supplement as other brands.

You’ll also notice our AAKG+ Core Blend includes Vitamin B (niacin) which helps nerve strength as mentioned above. It also includes an easily absorbed CoQ10 supplement for brain & muscle health.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a brain, neurological or age-related condition, it’s worth trying a month’s supply (one container with 90 servings).

See our high potency AAKG+ Core Blend on this page.

Our AAKG+ formula has helped hundreds of ALS patients get results since 2014.

It’s also received over 590, 4.5+ Star Reviews from our customers!

There’s no better investment than health and quality of life.

References:

https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131(20)30417-4

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17896582/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32877690/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22846967/

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tem.2021.11.003

https://doi.org/10.1248/bpb.30.1395

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28939592/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27491897/

The Pros and Cons of the new “Right to Try” Law

June 14, 2018ALS, Blog, Resourcesals, als treatment, alternative treatments, health, quality of lifeadmin

On May 30^th 2018, the President signed the recently passed Right to Try (RTT) legislation into law. This new law allows patients to receive unapproved medications without FDA notification for up to one year. It also removes the FDA from prohibiting access to an experimental therapy and removes the FDA from advising on dosing, schedule, method of administration or other important safety measures. In short, you’re able to side step the FDA and go directly to the drug manufacturer. You’re basically on your own without the oversight of the FDA. So, Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) and proceed with caution.

Nevertheless, this opens up the door to new possibilities that were simply not available before.

Here’re some of the Pros and Cons as we see them.

PRO’s:

Finally, some options. The RTT provides a level of freedom…and hope, that would otherwise be denied patients of terminal diseases.
Some of the therapies may prove beneficial and/or point the investigators and drug companies in a better direction.
It’s the right of every individual to choose their own destiny.
Side stepping Governmental bureaucracy and perhaps accelerating therapies that show promise.
Patients can try other drugs, supplements and therapies and report their results to their physicians and drug companies. Now information can flow in more directions.
The ALS Association both welcomed and voiced reservations about RTT. The association is aware of and is tracking this new law and will communicate with the ALS community.
Since the drugs are experimental and not FDA approved, this MIGHT lower treatment costs, as pharmaceutical companies cannot make a profit on these drugs until they’re FDA approved.
Possible access to other treatments and drugs, available outside the US, that have shown promise in other countries.

CON’s:

Some medications may not be safe, although they must have passed Phase 1 of clinical trials before patients of RTT can try the drugs.
Patients must look out for “bad actors” stepping in now to take advantage of patients vulnerabilities. Check history and reliability of manufacturer.
Pharmaceutical companies have very little incentive to provide access or broadly distribute their meds since they cannot make money until the drugs are FDA approved.
The RTT law could weaken current patient protection laws enforced by the FDA.
The reality is that many experimental drugs have limited access and availability anyway.
The RTT law may work as a pressure release valve and may reduce pressure on the FDA to speed up approval of Phase 1, 2 and 3 drugs in the pipeline.
Patient has little to no legal safeguards in case therapy produces more harm than good.

All in all, we think that the net effect of the new RTT law will be a positive one. This law opens up the conversation about the FDA’s unjustifiably slow and expensive process and provides the patient with some control over their destiny. That being said, patients need to be careful not to make a bad situation worse and should continue to consult with their physicians before venturing into unexplored territories.

Sources:

ALS News Today: US “Right to Try” Law meets with mix of Praise and Criticism, Including Among Those with Rare Diseases.” June 4^th, 2018 by Larry Luxner
“Easier Access to Experimental Drugs” vitaeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/easier-access-to-experimental-drugs.pdf
What You don’t Know about “Right to Try” Laws can Hurt You. https://medshow.org/fda-watch/right-to-try/

Lyme Disease and ALS – Summer 2017

July 1, 2017Blog, 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

Getting PALS the Help They Need FASTER!

February 22, 2017Blog, disability, Resources, ssdials, als legislation, als treatment, diability insurance, medicare, ssdiadmin

ALS is an incurable disease at this time. When a patient and family is dealing with ALS, the last thing they should have to do is wait for financial and medical assistance. Currently, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has a typical 5-month waiting period for patients with ALS (PALS).

On Thursday, Feb. 16, Congressmen Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Peter King (R-NY) re-introduced The ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, bipartisan legislation they spearheaded to ensure that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients are provided vital support and benefits in a timelier manner. The legislation would waive the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) five-month waiting period for people living with ALS, commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.[1]

Many PALS are often diagnosed after they experience significant health deterioration and symptoms. After dealing with the shock of this devastating diagnosis, PALS have to then apply for SSDI, which can be a lengthy and timely process. The ALS Association reports that fifty percent of all PALS succumb to their illness within 16 months of diagnosis. The waiver of this 5-month waiting period to get sorely needed resources in an expedient and timely manner is critical. “This legislation is especially important for people with ALS, for whom five months can mean the difference between life and death,” said Barbara Newhouse, President and CEO of The ALS Association. “

The waiver implications go beyond just financial support. Medicare coverage is tied to the onset of the approval and start of SSDI. The waiting period not only stalls much needed financial assistance to PALS and their families but also medical coverage for very costly care and potential medications.

We need your help to get this very important legislation quickly passed. You can send an e-mail to your members of Congress and personalize it with your story. Please urge your members of Congress to co-sponsor H.R. 1171/S. 379! You can click here to send your support via the ALS Association website.

To track and monitor the status of this very important legislation you can visit the bill status on this website: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1171

Please see an excerpt of the bill here:

Bill History in the Congressional Record

Page numbers for legislative actions on this bill link to the Congressional Record. Learn more about the History of Bills and Resolutions.

From the Congressional Record, Volume 163 (2017)

——————————————————H.R. 1171–A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to eliminate the five month waiting period for disability insurance benefits for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); to the Committee on Ways and Means. By Mr. MOULTON (for himself, Mr. King of New York, Mr. Bilirakis, Mr. Blumenauer, Mr. Cicilline, Ms. Clark of Massachusetts, Mr. Cohen, Mr. Conyers, Mr. DeFazio, Ms. DelBene, Mr. Engel, Mr. Garamendi, Mr. Heck, Mr. Jones, Mr. Keating, Mr. Kilmer, Ms. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Mr. MacArthur, Mr. McGovern, Mr. Peters, Ms. Pingree, Mr. Pocan, Miss Rice of New York, Mr. Richmond, Mr. Ruppersberger, Mr. Ryan of Ohio, Mr. Schiff, Mr. Sessions, Mr. Tonko, Mr. Walz, and Mr. Swalwell of California), H1300 [16FE]

If you need additional information on the bill or getting help read the original article form the ALS Association here: http://www.alsa.org/news/media/press-releases/als-disability-insurance-access-act-021617.html

Please get involved today to CURE ALS and help PALS and their families improve their quality of lives.

[1] http://beverly.wickedlocal.com/news/20170220/moulton-king-continue-fight-for-als-patients

The Deanna Protocol® Continues to Impress ALS Patients

February 6, 2017Blog, Deanna Protocol, Nutritionals, deanna protocol, Metabolic, PALSadmin

The Deanna Protocol is an all-natural metabolic program developed by Dr. Vincent Tedone which is continuing to improve the quality of life for people with ALS.

It was just a few years ago that the Ice Bucket Challenge caught everyone’s eye and raised awareness for ALS, or Lou Gehrig ’s disease. At the time the Deanna Protocol® was relatively new but it was already helping many ALS patient’s lives. According to a study by Winning the Fight, which researches “The Deanna Protocol,” a metabolic therapy with Deanna Protocol supplementation delays disease progression and extends survival in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mouse model.[1] The benefits of the Deanna Protocol to patients with ALS (PALS) is evident in the anecdotal feedback in recent years.

The Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Plan (also known as 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. The DP™Plan is not an ALS treatment drug like Rilutek/Riluzole. It is a list of substances (AAKG, AKG, GABA, CoQ10, Niacin, and 5HTP) that are already found in the body. However, the amounts found in the body are not nearly enough for those who have ALS, so the DP™Plan provides the body and nerve cells with more of these substances to compensate for what they lack. It is determined that the substances in the DP™ Plan provide energy to cells that are dying and in doing so keeps them alive. This is very important because when nerve cells die, they release glutamate which kills the contiguous cells.[2]

In 2014 CBN News wrote that ‘Deanna Protocol’ Makes a Splash in ALS Research’. The study found “mice on The Deanna Protocol had improved neurological scores, increased motor function and most importantly, survived longer than the mice who weren’t on it.”[3] Since this initial article, the Deanna Protocol has evolved in several major ways, in conjunction with assistance from Simplesa’s commitment to the ALS Community. Simplesa® was founded in 2013 because it saw a need and had a solution. ALS patients were having success following the Deanna Protocol, but it was too complex and expensive the way it was distributed. Simplesa® formulated products specifically for these ALS patients to simplify their regimen and lower the cost of the metabolic protocol.

Now all of the products needed to follow the protocol are offered in easy to follow combinations. Due to the improved ease of following the Deanna Protocol with the Simplesa products, the number of people following the protocol has increased. As the number of PALS following the Deanna Protocol has increased, Simplesa has also been able to reduce the cost of the protocol. Additionally, to add further savings and flexibility to PALS, Simplesa® and Winning the Fight® teamed up to break the Deanna Protocol down into three bundled and more personalized options: Deanna Protocol Core, Plus, and Comprehensive Bundles.

The Deanna Protocol Core Bundle focuses on six essential nutrients of the Deanna Protocol. These nutrients primary support providing energy production to the body through the mitochondria of the cells. The Plus Bundle builds on the Core Bundle by adding in Liposomal Glutathione, which helps the body push out toxins. It is considered the best antioxidant for the nervous system. The Comprehensive Bundle builds on the Plus Bundle by adding in the AM & PM Blends. These blends come in two powders, one for the morning and one for the evening, and they contain an additional 20 amino acids that support muscle and nerve health. These combinations are based on the research publication by the NIH on nutrients that should be consumed by people who have ALS.

The affirmative feedback and reports from PALS to Simplesa® on the Deanna Protocol® have been very positive in the years since its inception. PALS have continued to report improvement in quality of life:

“This product has worked wonders helping to reduce my pain, improve energy, lessen the severity muscle spasms, as well as improve balance and vertigo. I notice a day and night difference within taking my morning dose. I recommend taking the AKG throughout the day, not in lump 3 times a day to improve energy life.”

“My husband has been on the Deanna Protocol Products for two months now. He feels he has more energy and strength. We Would recommend these products!”

For more personal accounts on how the Deanna Protocol is helping PALS please click here.

The Deanna Protocol is not a cure for ALS, but it is a natural metabolic protocol that can help PALS improve their quality of life. To find out more about the Deanna Protocol® please contact Simplesa’s support team for information to see how it can help you or someone you know impacted by ALS.

References

*http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313919.php

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25061944
[2] https://www.winningthefight.org/deanna-protocolreg-metabolic-plan-for-als.html
[3] http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/healthscience/2014/August/Deanna-Protocol-Gains-Ground-in-ALS-Research

Metabolics and ALS

November 21, 2016Deanna Protocol, Nutrition, Resources, SupplementsAKG, als, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, metabolism, research, winning the fightadmin

We often hear that we are what we eat. Most people know how important it is to eat balanced healthy foods to stay healthy, but the importance of diet and nutrients is increased when you are ill. Often the symptoms or side effects of the disease are impaired metabolic function. Even eating a healthy diet won’t completely rectify this concern. Chronically ill patients sometimes can’t obtain the nutrients they require and/or the metabolizing process of nutrients has broken down. This breakdown impacts other critically important bodily functions.

Basics of Nutrition and Metabolism

Figure 1 – https://prezi.com/j5mbaoirevn1/copy-of-nutrition-vs-metabolism/#

In the recent article from National Institute of Health in November 2016 researchers found in the study “Metabolic Biomarkers and Neurodegeneration: A Pathway Enrichment Analysis of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis”:

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) lack robust diagnostics and prognostic biomarkers. Metabolomics is a postgenomics field that offers fresh insights for biomarkers of common complex as well as rare diseases. Using data on metabolite-disease associations published in the previous decade (2006-2016) in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science, we identified 101 metabolites as putative biomarkers for these three neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, uric acid, choline, creatine, L-glutamine, alanine, creatinine, and N-acetyl-L-aspartate were the shared metabolite signatures among the three diseases. The disease-metabolite-pathway associations pointed out the importance of membrane transport (through ATP binding cassette transporters), particularly of arginine and proline amino acids in all three neurodegenerative diseases. When disease-specific and common metabolic pathways were queried by using the pathway enrichment analyses, we found that alanine, aspartate, glutamate, and purine metabolism might act as alternative pathways to overcome inadequate glucose supply and energy crisis in neurodegeneration. These observations underscore the importance of metabolite-based biomarker research in deciphering the elusive pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Future research investments in metabolomics of complex diseases might provide new insights on AD, PD, and ALS that continue to place a significant burden on global health.[1]

A year earlier, another study published in JAMA, October 2015, “Association Between Dietary Intake and Function in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis” concluded:

that Antioxidants, carotenes, fruits, and vegetables were associated with higher ALS function at baseline by regression of nutrient indices and weighted quantile sum regression analysis. We also demonstrated the usefulness of the weighted quantile sum regression method in the evaluation of diet. Those responsible for nutritional care of the patient with ALS should consider promoting fruit and vegetable intake since they are high in antioxidants and carotenes.[2]

Nutrition is especially important for ALS patients, and following the Deanna Protocol™ “supercharges” the right nutrition for patients with ALS (PALS). It also aids as a metabolic therapy and supports energy metabolism. A study published in 2014 by the National Institute of Health investigated and found that the Deanna Protocol® (DP):

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative disorder of motor neurons causing progressive muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventual death from respiratory failure. There is currently no cure or effective treatment for ALS. Besides motor neuron degeneration, ALS is associated with impaired energy metabolism, which is pathophysiologically linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and glutamate excitotoxicity. The Deanna Protocol (DP) is a metabolic therapy that has been reported to alleviate symptoms in patients with ALS. In this study we hypothesized that alternative fuels in the form of TCA cycle intermediates, specifically arginine-alpha-ketoglutarate (AAKG), the main ingredient of the DP, and the ketogenic diet (KD), would increase motor function and survival in a mouse model of ALS (SOD1-G93A). ALS mice were fed standard rodent diet (SD), KD, or either diets containing a metabolic therapy of the primary ingredients of the DP consisting of AAKG, gamma-aminobutyric acid, Coenzyme Q10, and medium chain triglyceride high in caprylic triglyceride. Assessment of ALS-like pathology was performed using a pre-defined criteria for neurological score, accelerated rotarod test, paw grip endurance test, and grip strength test. Blood glucose, blood beta-hydroxybutyrate, and body weight were also monitored. SD+DP-fed mice exhibited improved neurological score from age 116 to 136 days compared to control mice. KD-fed mice exhibited better motor performance on all motor function tests at 15 and 16 weeks of age compared to controls. SD+DP and KD+DP therapies significantly extended survival time of SOD1-G93A mice by 7.5% (p = 0.001) and 4.2% (p = 0.006), respectively. Sixty-three percent of mice in the KD+DP and 72.7% of the SD+DP group lived past 125 days, while only 9% of the control animals survived past that point. Targeting energy metabolism with metabolic therapy produces a therapeutic effect in ALS mice which may prolong survival and quality of life in ALS patients.[3]

One thing shown over and over via these studies and anecdotal reports from PALS is that the Deanna Protocol® Metabolic Therapy is helping many PALS with quality of Life.

New studies are underway. the scientists at University of South Florida (USF) are moving forward with the experiment to determine the efficacy of the Deanna Protocol® Plan when combined with glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT). [4]

The DP® Plan focuses on cell metabolism. It 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.

If you need more information on how Simplesa® Deanna Metabolic Plan can help you, please contact us for assistance.

Footnotes:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27828769

[2] http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2570546

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25061944

[4] https://www.winningthefight.org/latest-developments

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

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

31 FACTS FOR ALS AWARENESS MONTH

May 23, 2016Food Safety, Guest Blog, Resources, Supplementsals, ALS AWARENESS, MND, Sarah Martinadmin

31 FACTS FOR ALS AWARENESS MONTH

Guest Post by Sarah Martin

Fact #1: ALS is a disease of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Fact #2: ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, named after Yankees player Lou Gehrig.

Fact #3: Most people with ALS live 2-5 years after the first signs of the disease. About 10% live for ≥10 years.

Fact #4: Every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS in the United States.

Fact #5: Early signs of ALS include muscle weakness, twitching, muscle cramps & difficulty speaking or swallowing.

Fact #6: ALS occurs throughout the world and has no socioeconomic, ethnic, or racial boundaries.

Fact #7: There is no single diagnostic test for ALS. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and ruling out other diseases.

Fact #8: The cause of ALS is not known.

Fact #9: ALS does not affect a person’s ability to smell, see, taste, hear, or recognize touch.

Fact #10: French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot discovered ALS in 1869, yet we still have no cure for the disease.

Fact #11: Tests done to diagnose ALS can include electromyography, blood & urine tests, spinal tap & muscle biopsy.

Fact #12: About 5-10% of ALS cases are inherited, also known as familial ALS. It is caused by a genetic mutation.

Fact #13: Most ALS cases are sporadic. It can affect anyone.

Fact #14: US military veterans are approximately twice as likely to develop ALS.

Fact #15: ALS is not contagious.

Fact #16: ALS usually strikes between the ages of 40-70, but can occur in younger adults and the elderly.

Fact #17: ALS is slightly more common in men than women.

Fact #18: ALS = MND (Motor Neuron Disease) in some parts of the world such as the UK and Australia.

Fact #19: A small percentage of people with ALS experience frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

Fact #20: ALS generally spreads from one part of the body to another.

Fact #21: Some public figures with ALS include former NFL player Steve Gleason and physicist Stephen Hawking.

Fact #22: ALS stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Fact #23: Involuntary muscles are not affected in ALS. These include the muscles that control the bladder and heartbeat.

Fact #24: It is estimated that approximately 30,000 people in the United States may be living with ALS at the current time.

Fact #25: Current treatment for ALS focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Fact #26: It is essential that people with ALS receive psychological and social support in addition to physical support.

Fact #27: People with ALS work with a multidisciplinary team of doctors to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Fact #28: In 2014, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge raised millions of dollars for research, patient care and more.

Fact #29: There are organizations & people around the world working hard for a cure for ALS, including ALSA & ALS TDI.

Fact #30: The month of May has been established as ALS Awareness Month in the United States.

Fact #31: We will put an end to ALS one day.

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:

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.

How are these two diseases different?

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

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]

Lyme Disease mimics other diseases

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

Does Lyme cause ALS?

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

Simplesa Deanna Protocol

November 6, 2015Blog, Deanna Protocolals, deanna protocol, quality of lfeadmin

At this time there is no cure for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Many patients facing this diagnosis are in a state of helplessness and hopelessness.

Dr. Vincent Tedone, a retired physician faced this same news when his daughter Deanna (at age 30) was initially diagnosed with ALS. Not wanting to give up and determined to find something to help her, he developed the Deanna Protocol. This all-natural metabolic therapy is a specific combination of nutrients found naturally occurring in our bodies that are administered in a consistent and daily protocol. Although not a cure for ALS, the Deanna Protocol has been reported by patients to slow the disease’s progression and allowing some individuals to achieve a better quality of life. In fact, a study performed by the University of Florida showed positive correlation and supporting results of how the Deanna Protocol supplementation delayed ALS disease progression and extended survival in mice. The study’s findings indicated that “metabolic therapy produces a therapeutic effect in ALS mice which may prolong survival and quality of life in ALS patients. “1

The goal of the protocol is to provide supplemental energy to the nerve and muscle cells to help in the prevention of cell death. Simplesa provides pre-packaged versions of the supplements required for the Deanna Protocol. The Simplesa products offer the convenience, cost effectiveness, and consistency of quality that supports the requirements of the Deanna Protocol.
The bottom line is that battling ALS requires fighting hard until a cure is found. The Deanna Protocol offers a natural therapy that has helped many people improve their quality of life. Find out more about how it might help you or someone you know battling ALS.

For more information on the history of the Deanna Protocol please visit: http://winningthefight.org/t/Deanna-Protocol

References: [1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25061944

Simplesa AAKG and Simplesa AAKG+ Core Powder

September 15, 2015Blog, Deanna Protocol, UncategorizedAAKG, als, deanna protocoladmin

Please watch this informative video on Simplesa AAKG and Simplesa AAKG+ Core Powder

Deanna Protocol using Simplesa Products

September 8, 2015Blog, Deanna Protocolals, deanna protocol, nutritional, quality of lifeadmin

Please watch these instructional videos on the Deanna Protocol and Simplesa Products.

Talking to your doctor about alternative treatments for ALS

August 12, 2015Blogals, alternative treatmentsadmin

Considering the lack of options that mainstream medicine can offer to people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease), it is not surprising that many people seek out alternative and complementary therapies after their diagonsis. Unfortunately, many physicians do not advocate the use of alternative therapies and often strongly discourage their patients from using them. This leads patients to silently suffer using only mainstream medicine, hide the fact that they are using alternate therapies from their doctor, or stand up to their physician and openly take these therapies against medical advice. This sort of antagonistic situation is not good for the patient/physician relationship, nor is it good therapy. Continue reading Talking to your doctor about alternative treatments for ALS →

Alternatives to Rilutek

August 5, 2015Blogals, Alternatives to Rilutekadmin

The Limitations of Rilutek

As most people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) know, Rilutek is the only prescription medication that prolongs life. Unfortunately, this increase is only about two months. Some people may enjoy greater benefits, especially those with bulbar-onset ALS, but most people will experience far less than a year of additional life with riluzole (Rilutek). Unfortunately, not every patient is likely to experience any benefit from treatment with riluzole. The drug is not likely to be of benefit to anyone with a tracheostomy, for example. Therefore, it is reasonable and common for people with ALS (PALS) to look for alternatives to Rilutek, or at least medications that can be used in addition to this prescription drug. Continue reading Alternatives to Rilutek →

Alternative Treatments for ALS: A Primer

July 28, 2015Blogals, alternative treatmentsadmin

Due to the limited treatments available to ALS patients through the traditional medical community, many PALS turn to alternative medicine for non-traditional approaches. This article reviews some of the more common routes that PALS explore, though there are many, many more that are beyond the scope of this article. Continue reading Alternative Treatments for ALS: A Primer →