Muscles and CoQ10

Areas of the body that intensely soak up oxygen such as the blood rich skeletal muscle and heart muscle should have an abundance of these factories. However as fitness and age decline, and the muscles are not required for exertion then these factories can decline. This is part of the reason why you feel puffed and unfit when attempting to exercise after a long period of inactivity – not enough mitochondrial factories to process oxygen. After a few weeks, as you push yourself, the body makes more factories and fitness returns as the muscle gains the ability to once again efficiently harness oxygen.

Are you over 40, and have you noticed that any gained fitness is lost quicker than when you were younger? Part of the reason for this is that the enzyme that makes CoQ10 in the body declines as you age. Children have an abundance of CoQ10 to help meet their demands for growth which is one of the reasons why their energy levels often seem endless. Supplement with CoQ10 if you feel you need a boost in energy especially if you feel your fitness goals are a struggle or that you have plateaued and cannot push yourself further.

The British Journal of Medicine mentions a study that shows a daily intake of CoQ10 can help reduce exercise induced muscle injuries, and another study on German Olympic athletes showed it improved peak power output.

Heart Health

While CoQ10 can act as fat soluble antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful free radicals generated by the body’s own daily metabolism, it seems one of the real keys to this ingredient is for heart health. The heart never rests and needs a constant supply of oxygen. Increasing the levels of CoQ10 via supplementation likely increases the levels of CoQ10 in the heart muscle, thus helping oxygenation and the supply of fuel for the heart to function. The theory is that it helps the heart work more efficiently.

According to the Mayo Clinic’s website there is evidence to show that a lack of CoQ10 through disease, or low intake may lead to heart failure, high blood pressure and even chest pain, and that increasing blood levels of it will help these conditions.

CoQ10 is also more famous for being depleted while on cholesterollowering statins. A lot of people report body aching, especially in the legs after a few years on statins, and even increased fatigue. Statins block the synthesis of CoQ10, so these symptoms are not surprising. Given that aging can decrease the levels of CoQ10 and so can statins, then long term anyone on statins will do well to supplement with CoQ10.

If you want to improve your fitness, muscle strength, overall tissue health, have any heart issue, then you should consider supplementing with CoQ10 to enjoy its benefit, but of course talk with a health professional if you have any questions that need answering.

Signs and symptoms of a poorly managed thyroid:

• Weight gain or difficulty loosing weight
• Tiredness
• Sluggishness
• Cold hands and feet
• Poor concentration
• Dry skin and or dry hair
• Depression
• Constipation

Thyroid bloods test levels of TSH, fT4 and fT3 levels in the blood, which is useful, however we need to be sure that T4 and T3 are getting into our cells to actually make an impact. There are no T4 receptors in the body, T4 needs to be converted to T3 to have an action and all of the T3 receptors are inside cells not outside. We also need to be able to make our own good quality T3 receptors, that are also tuned and sensitive to receiving the T3 for action, everyone is different.

Consider the “health” of our cell membranes which also need nutrients/factors to function properly and again PCB’s, toxins and rancid fatty acids can block movement of thyroid hormones into the cells. We need to be sure our T4 and T3 are getting into the cells/tissues and not just being found in our blood.

Adequate production of thyroid hormones requires a good source of protein in the diet, with a goods digestive system able to isolate the amino acids from the protein. Then we also need adequate amounts of iodine, zinc, selenium, vitamins B1, B2, B12, B6 and C as well to name a few.

Progesterone is needed to assist the conversion of T4 to T3, then we need Vitamin A and E to help with the production of TSH from the pituitary gland, TSH stimulates the thyroid to produce T4, T3, and some T2 and T1 as well – missing any of these will result in a low functioning thyroid.

It’s all about considering the whole picture and understanding that good thyroid function is more than just TSH, fT4 and fT3 bloods.

Please contact us via e mail info@pharmaceutical.co.nz if you would like to discuss how to optimise your thyroid function.

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are two types of omega 3 fats, and the quantity of these fats is often used to measure how effective an omega 3 product might be. The higher the number, the more omega 3, the better it must be for you.

Fish oil dominated the omega 3 market for a number of years, until Krill oil entered the market place. Krill oil provides the body with superior nutrition due to its unique structure, which sets it apart from ordinary fish oil. Don’t make the mistake of comparing amounts of EPA and DHA as the numbers do not tell the whole story.

The ingredients in a 440mg capsule of Krill Oil have a synergy that makes a one to one comparison with a 1000mg fish oil capsule challenging without the full facts.

Different Structures

Fish oil has a triglyceride structure and its omega 3 (EPA & DHA) is bound to this. Triglycerides are the basic structure of most fats that people ingest, yet for the body to make use of the omega 3 in fish oil, the fat structure must be remodelled to be transported into the body’s cells. This means that some of the omega 3 can be lost during remodelling.

Krill oil’s structure is mainly comprised of phospholipids. Every cell in the human body is surrounded by a membrane known as a cell wall, and it is mostly made of phospholipids. What this means is that Krill oil’s omega 3’s needs no remodelling like fish oil; all of the EPA and DHA gets into the cells.

Because of this efficiency it is estimated that one 440mg Krill oil capsule roughly equates to about three 1000mg fish oil capsules.

Astaxanthin

Krill are a reddish colour due to their consumption of an antioxidant known as Astaxanthin.

Krill ingest red-coloured plant life which contains a lot of this antioxidant. However, Astaxanthin only appears in minute quantities in Krill oil, giving it a reddish-brown colour, but here is the exciting reveal – Astaxanthin is 6000 times more powerful as an antioxidant than Vitamin C. This means that even 1mg of ingested Astaxanthin promotes powerful health benefits.

Advantages of Krill over Fish oil

1. Contains EPA and DHA (Omega 3).
2. Contains high amounts of phospholipids which enhance the bioavailability of omega 3 fatty acids, and prevent oxidative damage to the cell wall.
3. Contains Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, which increases the body’s natural healing ability.
4. Has greater total antioxidant protection than fish oil due to the naturally occurring vitamins A & E and Astaxanthin.
5. It is sourced from our cleaner, sustainable Southern Antarctic Oceans, and has a greater purity than fish oil with no detectable heavy metals, dioxins or pesticides.
6. Comes in easy to take small caps.
7. It is reflux free.

Actions of Krill compared to Fish oil

• Krill oil has demonstrated superiority over standard fish oils for a number of conditions including:
• Cardiovascular health – Krill oil reduces inflammation and supports healthy cholesterol metabolism.
• Elevated cholesterol – Krill oil reduces total, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increases HDL cholesterol along with maintaining healthy ratios of HDL and LDL.
• Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis – Krill oil reduces pain, inflammation, stiffness and improves mobility.
• PMS and dysmenorrhoea – Krill oil reduces the physical and emotional symptoms of PMS.
• Neurological conditions – Krill oil supports cognition, maintains learning and memory and improves mood and wellbeing.

We love its unique triple action of enzymes, prebiotics and fibre.

This is a great product which is natural and made from NZ kiwifruit.

If you are struggling with bloating, gas and general digestive discomfort this is for you. At some time or other we have all had that uncomfortable, swollen or bloated feeling and been unable to have a bowel movement.

Phloe is clinically shown to keep you regular while promoting long-term intestinal health and helping avoid digestive discomfort.

Don't just take our word for it, see what these Phloe customers had to say:

"Within two days of using Phloe my bloating had gone down I was able to go to the toilet not once a week but everyday! In general I feel so much better to have a flat stomach, not to feel bloated, sluggish and fatigued all day long…
Phloe is without a doubt the best discovery I have ever made and I would recommend it to anyone with similar problems."
Kate, United Kingdom
Symptoms: Constipation and Bloating

"I had been seeing the doctor with IBS and diverticuli for about 8 years. Mine was so bad that a few years back the doctor suggested having my bowel removed and having a bag.
Since Phloe I don’t take any doctor prescribed pills and my health and well being has improved dramatically.
Thank you Phloe for a new lease on life without pain."
Shirley, Katikati, New Zealand
Symptoms: Irritable Bowel Syndrome

"My husband has parkinsons disease and for many years now has had an ongoing problem with constipation.
We tried every product on the market with minimal success and then were recommended to try Phloe. We did and we have had great results.
I have told all my friends in our Carers group and they have been buying Phloe for their husbands with the same success."
Pauline, Wellington, New Zealand
Symptoms: Constipation

Phloe is currently on offer at the PCNZ website, click here to go to the product page.

Phloe 50 Caps - was $26.95, now $20.90 (save $6.05)
Phloe 120 Caps - was $49.95, now $30.90 (save $19.05)

*Research conducted by Pure Profile amongst 1,000 consumers, during June 2012.

If you want glowing hair and skin, and strong nails then zinc is a key nutrient to consider taking as a supplement. Clinicians Zinc Oral Drops contains 1mg of zinc per drop, and with over 1000 drops per 30 ml bottle it makes it a cost effective and affordable zinc product.

Selenium
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant needed by every cell in minute amounts. It is touted as supporting healthy ageing, healthy elasticity of body tissues, supporting liver function, and acting as a support against heavy metals. Selenium also supports the health of the eye and the cardiovascular system, and it is needed for the production of thyroid hormones.

Clinicians Selenium Oral Drops has been formulated to address the selenium lack in New Zealand diets as most farm soils are deficient in selenium. With over a 1000 drops per bottle this makes Clinicians Selenium Oral Drops a cost effective and absorbable solution for those needing to increase their levels of selenium

Clinicians Super Family Vitamin C
Clinicians Super Family Vitamin C contains a special type of Vitamin C that lasts in the body up to 24 hours which is four times longer than normal Vitamin C. What this means is that a single dose goes further and provides longer body protection. Vitamin C is the vitamin of choice during winter months when colds and flus abound, but as Vitamin C also plays a major role in the stress response, Christmas time and New Year is also a good time to supplement with it.

Vitamin C is needed for collagen repair and formation, so upping the levels of Vitamin C during summer when levels of activity and injuries increase is recommended as it is known for supporting shorter healing times.

Clinicians Super Family Vitamin C comes with a 2000mg and a 1000mg scoop so that measuring out the right dose for the family is made easier.

PCNZ are hosting a free seminar on men and women's health and hormones with two of the top doctors in New Zealand, Dr Kamal Karl and Dr Helen Smith. Both doctors will be presenting and also answering any questions you may have after the main presentations.

We have a stunning location at the QBE Stadium in the Level One South Lounge for this one-off seminar. It is free to attend and all are welcome. Reserve your tickets here now.

We would like to get a good mix of men and women so encourage you to bring your partner, family members and friends. We will be offering everyone in a group of two or more a 10% off online voucher for each person in your group. This voucher is valid for any of the products available on our new website.

Date/Time: Wednesday 14th October (6:30pm-8:30pm)
Location: QBE Stadium (Level One South Lounge), Albany, Auckland
Parking: Plenty of free parking at the stadium
Speakers: Dr Kamal Karl and Dr Helen Smith
Places: 150
Cost: FREE
Bonuses: Bring a partner, family member or friend (or bring several) and all get a 10% off voucher for our new website. Attendees will also have the chance to win a free personal consultation.

These two doctors are both extremely popular and have drawn rave reviews previously. This is the biggest seminar we have ever put on and is not one you want to miss. Register here now.

FAQs

What are my parking options at the event?
There is plenty of free parking at the stadium. Use car park A, if there is no space use car park H. Click here to view a map.

Can I bring a friend?
Yes you are most welcome to bring a friend, as long as you book an extra ticket for them when you register for yours.

Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Call us on 09 442 1727 or email info@pharmaceutical.co.nz

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
Yes please, but if you forget then you can still attend by giving us your name.

The key is to look at boosting your immunity as an ongoing system rather than a single entity; it is a lifestyle change that will bring happiness and balance to your life. It is not a quick fix or fad.

To adopt a healthy living strategy, consider:

• Diet – are your meals balanced?
• Exercise – a few minutes of exercise per day can make all the difference
• Stress – what are your coping mechanisms?
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Sleep – are you getting enough?
• Be kind to yourself, surround yourself with positive people and think positive thoughts

It is vital to ensure you are getting a good balance of vitamins and minerals so that each of these areas can function properly, meaning your body and mind have the support they need.

Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral which cannot be stored in the body. Various forms are available, with some forms (such as zinc picolinate) being better absorbed than others. Some of its functions include:

• Has a role in immune function
• Important for adequate wound healing
• Supports normal growth and development
• Required for proper taste and smell
• Required for the functioning of over 100 enzymes in the body
• Required for DNA synthesis and cell division

Found in: almonds, dairy foods, oysters, beef, lobster and baked beans.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is needed by every cell in the body, it either comes from the sun, food or by taking supplements. Vitamin D3 is the best form to supplement with for:

• Optimal immune function
• Absorption and use of calcium for bone health
• Muscle and nerve function (with low levels you can get bone and muscle pain)
• Normal blood clotting

Found in: oily fish, cod liver oil, beef liver and eggs.

The sun’s UV rays on your skin begin the production of vitamin D within the skin. Levels in New Zealand are lowest in November after coming out of winter and highest in February during summer.

Those living at the equator have very high levels of vitamin D, which is safe and optimal as at this level the body is able to manage bone health and have enough for other functions, including immunity.

You need 20 minutes in sun in shorts and a t-shirt daily to produce enough vitamin D, but this is limited by:

• Presence of clouds and pollution
• Wearing of sun block
• Your age
• Time of year and latitude
• Colour of your skin (darker skin needs more sunlight to produce vitamin D)
• The amount of exposed skin

Consider latitude, as living in certain areas means there may be times in the year where you have a reduced ability to make vitamin D using the suns rays and the skin. If you live further from the equator, the opportunity for making vitamin D through sun exposure goes down, due to the weakness and angle of the suns rays.

Living at the equator allows vitamin D production all year round if exposed to the sun accordingly. However as we move further south or north, many places will have no vitamin D production through the skin, even if exposed, during some of the winter months.

Vitamin B12
Hydroxo and cyano forms are available, but methylcobalamin is the best form of vitamin B12 as it is also a coenzyme and is well absorbed sublingually (under the tongue). Vitamin B12 is known to have the following beneficial effects:

• Relieves fatigue and improves mood
• Brain protection
• Detoxification
• Resets sleep schedule
• Influences genetic expression
• Reduces nerve pain and protects nerves e.g. peripheral nerve problems , MS and neural tube defects

Reasons for having low B12 include:

• Not eating animal products (vegetarians/vegans)
• Absorption issues for those with pernicious anaemia, gluten sensitivity or coeliac
• Presence of H. pylori infection (stomach ulcers)
• MTHFR genetic mutation
• Poor gut bacteria

Found in: dairy products, red meat, eggs and shellfish.

Vitamin C
There are various forms of vitamin C available. Calcium ascorbate with bioflavonoids is a good source as these potentiate the activity of vitamin C. Vitamin C has the following benefits:

• Boosts immune function
• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Helps to lower cholesterol levels

Found in: oranges, sweet red peppers and kiwi fruit (higher doses are needed via supplementation for the protective benefits of vitamin C).

Please note – this is a brief overview on some of the key nutrients often used to assist in maintaining an optimal immune system.

If you would like further information on any of the nutrients listed above or how to boost your own immune system, please call us on 09 442-1727 or email us at info@pharmaceutical.co.nz

References
*Vitamin D Council. How do I get the vitamin D my body needs? [Online] Available: https://www.vitamindcouncil.org/about-vitamin-d/how-do-i-get-the-vitamin-d-my-body-needs/. Last accessed: 15th July 2015.

Some of the key features include:

• Improved shopping cart system making it easier to find, read about and buy products
• Free delivery on all internet orders over $99
• New online points and rewards system
• Improved in-house processes for faster delivery times
• GST now included in all product prices (no more unexpected cost additions)
• Easier website navigation
• Improved look and feel
• Professional images
• More information on conditions, supplements and health in general
• A blog to keep you up-to-date with all the latest health news
• Mobile and tablet friendly

As with any big change in technology we are expecting a few bugs along the way, but we will endeavour to fix these as quickly as possible and hopefully there won't be anything that will impact on your experience too much.

If you have any suggestions for improvement or you do find a bug/fault with our new website please email us as this will help us solve the issue quickly.

We hope you enjoy the new website!

Thanks

The PCNZ Team