Vit C
Fall is officially here or as they say in the Philippines… we are
in the midst of our Burrr months. (i.e.: SeptemBurrr, OctoBurrr, NovemBurrr,
DecemBurrr. Of course, since it cools off to an icy 80 degrees during these
months I have no idea why they say that!) For many here in the states this
is the time that we start to be concerned with the cold and flu season.
A number of studies over the years have indicated that vitamin C can be very
valuable during this season. While studies have not shown that vit C prevents
colds they have shown it can significantly reduce both the total amount of
time you are “under the weather” and the severity of the symptoms
you suffer.
Of course Symmetry offers an exceptional vit C product: Botana-C. However,
this note is not about colds or flu symptoms, but something totally different.
A recent study on: A randomized controlled trial of high dose ascorbic acid
for reduction of blood pressure, cortisol, and subjective responses to psychological
stress, was published in the Journal: Psychopharmacology. This research was
carried out at the Center for Psychomatic and Psychobiological Research, University
of Trier, Trier, Germany. As you might well have guessed, it has shown that
vit C was great in helping to reduce the stress response as measured by blood
pressure and the stress hormone: cortisol, as well as subjective measurements.
This adds to vit C’s impressive list of benefits to the body.
Symmetry supplies you with a unique vit C formula; 500 mg of C with 100 mg
of mixed bioflavinoids. Studies have indicated this is the best ratio for
optimal benefit from both the C and the bioflavinoids which on their own are
powerful cancer fighters and also known for their ability to strengthen capillary
walls and reduce bleeding and bruising. Our Botana-C is made in a base of
berry extracts to strengthen and support both the urinary system and the eyes,
certainly not something you can easily find elsewhere.
If you are looking to fight off stress we other great products you could add
to Botana-C. Studies in Europe have shown the Omega fatty acids work as well
as any known psychoactive drug in fighting off stress and anxiety. From our
Botanical line we have Tranquility. (I think the name says it all here.) This
is something you can take day or night and take as much as needed to help
you cope with unexpected stress. If you have more of a long term clinical
problem with mild anxiety studies have shown the St. John’s Wort in
NeuroCalm could be just what you need. I should also mention studies have
indicated that exercise, something as simple as walking 30 minutes 4 days
a week can have a very favorable impact on stress and anxiety.
Oh, one last thing you can do; you’ve heard me talk about the benefits
of beta-endorphins. These boost the mood and improve the immune function helping
to fight off colds, flu’s and even cancer and AIDS. These powerful chemicals
are released by something as simple as a hug. So, go to a Symmetry meeting
and hug a friend – you’ll both be better off for it! ?
Side note:
How much vitamin C do you need? The ridiculous dietary advice (RDA) for vit
C is just 60 mg. Studies have indicated that taking 500 mg again can help
extend your life by 5.5 years! Many experts suggest taking between 1,000 and
2,000 mg a day for maximum benefit. For the average person I would recommend
taking 500 mg twice a day to keep your blood levels at optimal levels. However,
if you are under stress – either mental or physical you can double up
on that amount.