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Cancer Prevention - The Immune System - Herbal Remedies

What is cat’s claw?

Cat’s claw might be one of the most confusing (and most effective!) nutritional supplements available in health food stores today—with some fairly good reasons.

First, its mere name can be bewildering. Currently, there are at least 16 plants in the world that are called cat’s claw. Sometimes these plants are referred to as “Una de Gato”, Spanish for cat’s claw. While Uncaria tomentosa is the Latin name of the plant most frequently sold as cat’s claw supplements, these products vary vastly. Some cat’s claw nutritional supplements contain cat’s claw bark, some contain cat’s claw stems, and others contain compounds from the leaves of cat’s claw. All of these claim to help the immune system.1

However, it is the root of Uncaria tomentosa that actually contains the true cat’s claw health benefits. Scientists, who have extensively studied every part of the plant, discovered that only extracts made from cat’s claw root possess the healing power to treat and prevent disease. While it would seem that this vital understanding might help clear up some cat’s claw confusion, not all Uncaria tomentosa roots actually contain healing properties.2

To determine which cat’s claw roots do have healing properties, we have to go to the rainforests of Peru. This is where Uncaria tomentosa thrives. It’s a woody vine that’s found at the base of tall trees in the rainforests. As the plant grows, it winds up and around the tree, attaching itself to the trunk with curved cat-like claws found at the junctions of its leaves. The Asháninka Indians, who make these rainforests their home, have used the roots of the cat’s claw plant for thousands of years to cure illness and maintain health in the tribe.1,2

Healers in the Asháninka tribe attribute the healing properties in cat’s claw to the “good spirits” that live in the plant’s roots. In order to obtain these healing properties, the correct cat’s claw root must first be harvested. The Asháninka healers know which cat’s claw to use; they can actually “see” the good spirits hidden inside the root of the plant before they collect them. Some cat’s claw plant roots have the good spirits. Some cat’s claw plant roots don’t. If the cat’s claw root with good spirits is mixed with any cat’s claw root without good spirits, the healing power is lost. While there are no visible differences in the plants or the roots, only certain cat’s claw roots possess the power to heal. And, only the Asháninka tribal healers seem to be able to see them.2

Amazingly, however, scientists who were given cat’s claw roots by the Asháninka to study in the laboratory discovered that they were able to “see” the good spirits, too! Using high performance liquid chromatography, or HPLC, a laboratory process that identifies various chemical compounds, the good spirits of cat’s claw roots were revealed to actually be important medicinal compounds, called pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (or POAs).2

At the same time, the scientists studying cat’s claw found they could “see” the non-healing properties as well. Again, using HPLC, they also discovered the presence of tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids (or TOAs) in certain cat’s claw roots. While the POAs have very powerful effects in the immune system, the TOAs have different effects in the body, none of which help the immune system cells at all.3-6

And, if the TOAs and POAs are mixed together (as so often happens in the vast majority of cat’s claw products), the resulting product is useless to healing and health. The TOAs cancel out the action of the POAs, making the cat’s claw root extract ineffective. Even as little as 1% TOA content can cause POAs to lose their ability to beneficially modulate the immune system.2,7

This means that cat’s claw supplements that contain only POAs (in other words, cat’s claw that is 100% TOA-free) from the root of the plant will provide powerful effects in the immune system.1,2,7

What effect do the POAs from cat’s claw root have on our immune system?

Cat’s claw POAs work to keep us healthy by directly interacting with white blood cells, the backbone of our immune system. Our white blood cells are the disease fighting cells of the human body. These highly specialized cells fight diseases we catch, such as colds and flu, as well as diseases that start within our own cells, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. There are many kinds of white blood cells; each has a specific job to do in fighting diseases.8

Certain POAs help white blood cells called macrophages work faster. The macrophages’ job is to engulf and digest foreign material. This means that macrophages can ingest more bacteria and disease causing microbes when they are exposed to POAs.9,10 The scientists also discovered that POA cat’s claw extract increases the production of a chemical protein called interleukin, that is secreted by macrophages.11 Interleukin (IL-1) has important immune enhancing properties. IL-1 alerts resting white blood cells and spurs them into action. It also helps make other biochemicals essential to an activated immune system.12 (90% of white blood cells are in reserve)

POAs also help B cells.9,10 B cells are white blood cells that make antibodies that kill germs. Each B cell is programmed to make one specific antibody that is effective against one specific germ (such as a bacteria, virus, or fungus).12 When scientists looked at the number of B cells after they were exposed to POA cat’s claw root extract, they found that the B cells had increased significantly, resulting in an increased supply of antibodies.13

And perhaps most importantly as they relate to cancer, the POAs in cat’s claw root extract help increase the number of T-cells, the true soldiers of the immune system.13 There are many different kinds of these white blood cells, including Helper T-cells, Suppressor T-cells, and Killer T-cells. Increased Helper, Suppressor, and Killer T-cells can more effectively destroy cancer cells. Increasing the number of circulating T-cells is very important in a disease like AIDS as well.12

European health care providers are often very comfortable integrating the use of herbal and nutritional supplements as vital components of their patients’ cancer treatments. In Austria alone, cat’s claw extract is used together with conventional treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, and/or surgery), to treat hundreds of cancer patients every year!14

A recent clinical observational study looked at POA cat’s claw extract in 78 people with very advanced brain cancer. All of the participants reported that the special POA cat’s claw helped them feel better, have more vitality, and reduced side effects (such as nausea) caused by their conventional cancer treatment. The researchers felt that POA cat’s claw extract may also prove to have benefit in extending the life span of people with these types of deadly brain cancers.15

What exactly are maitake mushrooms?

Maitake (pronounced my-tok-kee) mushrooms are native to the mountain forests of Japan. They are large mushrooms, some growing up to fifty pounds, characterized by overlapping, rippling caps. For thousands of years, maitake mushrooms have been linked to good health in those who eat them. They have been highly prized for centuries. During the feudal era of Japan, maitake mushrooms were equal to their weight in silver.16

Maitake mushrooms are known by many names. Maitake’s Latin name is "Grifola frondosa" which refers to the griffin, a mythical half-lion and half-eagle that symbolizes strength and vigilance. They are sometimes called “Hen-of-the- Woods”, as their overlapping caps are similar to the plumage of barnyard fowl. Maitakes are also known as “dancing mushrooms.” This name may reflect the mushrooms’ wavy, rippling appearance. It may also originate from the dance of joy mushroom hunters perform when they find maitakes in the woods.16

How did research discover maitake’s health benefits?

Because maitakes are well known as healthy food, researchers interested in medicinal mushrooms have studied them extensively. They discovered many maitake compounds with dramatic health-promoting potential. One of these compounds, maitake D-fraction, has particularly powerful anti-cancer effects.17

In lab studies, D-fraction stops the growth of cancer cells and cancerous tumors. Maitake D-fraction stimulates the activity of two white blood cells, macrophages and natural killer cells. These white blood cells then trigger the production of interleukins and other lymphokines, two biochemicals that help mediate the immune response. Maitake also inhibits some of the mechanisms that promote metastasis, or spread, of cancer cells in the lymph system and bloodstream.18-20

Because of this success, maitake D-fraction is now being used in preliminary clinical trials of women with breast cancer.16 One study has reported significant improvement of symptoms, including reduction of the tumor. The maitake D-fraction was given to breast cancer patients in addition to standard chemotherapy.17

What is IP-6 with inositol?

In the mid 1980s, scientists at the University of Maryland were studying various plant fibers and how they affected our health. They were particularly interested in fiber and cancer. They discovered that fiber and bran contain many natural components. One of these components, IP-6, has been studied extensively for over 20 years.21-26

IP-6 is the abbreviation for inositol hexaphosphate, an all-natural substance found in the bran of brown rice. IP-6 is also referred to as phytic acid.27 Inositol is part of the B vitamin group,28 and IP-6, in a special and specific combination with inositol, has powerful effects on the immune system.29

How does IP-6 with inositol help the immune system?

Scientists who study IP-6 with inositol have discovered many amazing things how this combination works. While many cancer drugs work by killing all cells, both cancerous and normal, IP-6 with inositol only affects cancer cells. When cancer cells in the laboratory are exposed to IP-6 with inositol, they lose their aggressive nature, stop dividing uncontrollably, and eventually die. The combination of IP-6 with inositol does not affect normal cells.29-31

Researchers have also discovered that this powerful combination boosts the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, those important white blood cells that “naturally” kill cancer cells.29-31 Increased NK cell activity can result in the increased killing of cancer cells, as well as cells infected by viruses.12 And, finally, researchers have discovered that IP-6 with inositol also acts like an antioxidant to help prevent cellular damage.32

If IP-6 comes from bran, wouldn’t eating more whole grain or high fiber foods provide IP-6?

Scientists who study a specific IP-6 and inositol blend asked this very same question and went to the laboratory to find the answer. They took cancerous tumors and exposed them to either the nutrients of fiber and bran, or to IP-6. The nutrients of the fiber and bran were the equivalent of a 20% bran diet. The scientists discovered that the IP-6 was twice as effective as the nutrients of the 20% bran diet.33

In bran or fiber, IP-6 is bound to protein. For IP-6 to be well absorbed in the stomach, enter the bloodstream, and travel to the various organs where cancer has occurred, the IP-6 must first be separated from the protein. This normally happens with digestion, but it can take awhile and is inefficient. Phytase, an enzyme found in food and also the intestine, can actually break down IP-6, making it ineffective as a cancer fighter. The longer it takes IP-6 to be released from food, the more time phytase has to break down IP-6 to an ineffective form. Pure IP-6 is better, because it will be absorbed into the bloodstream before phytase has a chance to destroy it.29,33

Why not just take IP-6 by itself? Why does IP-6 need to be combined with inositol?

When scientists studying this combination used plain IP-6 in the laboratory, good cancer preventative effects and good cancer killing effects happened.26,35-37 When scientists used plain inositol in the laboratory, again, good cancer preventative and cancer killing effects occurred.38-31 However, when IP-6 was combined with inositol, powerful cancer killing and cancer preventative effects happened.29,30 Clearly, IP-6 with inositol is the superior choice in cancer prevention.

Scientists are interested in the very unique way IP-6 works in our body. One theory of how this combination exerts its effects is that IP-6 mixed with inositol breaks down into IP-3 in the body. IP-3 is more active than IP-6, but is very unstable. That is why it is so important to use a product that is an exact combination of IP-6 and inositol, precursors that are both needed to yield the maximum amount of IP-3 needed for immune stimulation and cancer growth inhibition.29,30

If these three natural products are taken together, could they over-stimulate my immune system?

That is a very good question. And at first glance, it might seem a possibility. However, one of the most amazing aspects of all three nutritional products, POA cat’s claw root extract, maitake d-fraction, and IP-6 with inositol, is their ability to both strengthen a weakened immune system and calm down a hyperactive immune system. They modulate the immune system.9

The POAs in cat’s claw root extract do not take over the immune system’s job, they simply strengthen the body’s immune system so it can do its job better.9-11,13 Maitake D-fraction does not act on cancer cells directly, it encourages the body’s own immune system regulators to act.17-21 IP-6 with inositol does not increase NK cells, it increases NK cell activity.29-32 In other words, these three natural discoveries strengthen and balance the immune system without the fear of over-stimulation.

In fact, it is theorized that cat’s claw root extract, maitake mushrooms, and IP-6 with inositol may work synergistically. Meaning, together they strengthen and balance the immune system even better when they are taken together. However, if you use a cat’s claw supplement that contains any amount of TOAs, not only will the good “spirits” of the POAs be cancelled, experts believe that they will interfere with IP-6 with inositol as well.42 That’s why it is vital to choose a cat’s claw supplement that is 100% TOA-free and says so on its label.

Conclusion

These three natural discoveries may be some of the most important health discoveries to date. From the mountains of Japan, the rainforests of Peru, and the learned halls of a prestigious university we have been given powerful allies in healthy immunity and cancer prevention. Thankfully, there are formulas available at health food stores that contain all three natural discovery dietary supplements in one convenient product.

Our immune systems are continuously assaulted from pollutants in the environment, toxic additives in our food, and common chemicals we use and depend on everyday. These assaults can leave us vulnerable to so-called simple diseases, like colds and the flu, as well as serious problems, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. Staving off these threats means our white blood cells must stand ready to mount incredibly intricate defenses. Cat’s claw root extract, maitake D-fraction, and IP-6 with inositol provide powerful protection from disease and an all natural boost to our immune system.

Reference

1. Schauss AG. Cat’s Claw: Una de Gato. Tacoma, Wa: Foundation for Biosocial Research; 1998:4-6.

2. Keplinger K, Laus G, Wurm M, Dierich MP, Teppner H. Uncaria tomentosa (Willd.) DC.--ethnomedicinal use and new pharmacological, toxicological and botanical results. J Ethnopharmacol. 1999;64:23-34.

3. Jin RM, Chen CX, Li YK, Xu PK. Effect of rhynchophylline on platelet aggregation and experimental thrombosis. Yao Hsueh Hsueh Pao. 1991;26:246-249.

4. Zhang W, Liu GX. Effects of rhynchophylline on myocardial contractility in anaesthetized dogs and cats. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1986;7:426-428.

5. Zhang W, Liu GX, Huang XN. Effect of rhynchophylline on the contraction of rabbit aorta. Chung Kuo Li Hsueh Pao. 1987;8:425-429.

6. Kanatani H, Kohda H, Yamasaki K, et al. The active principles of the branchlet and hook of Uncaria sinensis Oliv. examined with a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor-binding assay. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1985;37:401-404.

7. Wurm M, Kacani L, Laus G, Keplinger K, Dierich MP. Pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids from Uncaria tomentosa induce human endothelial cells to release a lymphocyte- proliferation- regulating factor. Planta Medica. 1998;65:701-704.

8. Sommers C. Immunity and inflammation. In: Porth CM. Pathophysiology: Concepts of Altered Health States. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 1998: 189-212.

9. Wagner H, Kreutzkamp B, Jurcic K. Die alkaloide von uncaria tomentosa und ihre phagozytosesteigernde wirkung (The alkaloids of Uncaria tomentosa and their phagocytosis increasing effects). Planta Medica. 1985;5:419-423.

10. Kreutzkamp B. Niedermolekulare Inhaltsstoffe mit immunstimulierenden Eigenschaften aus Uncaria tomentosa, Okouba aubrivellei und andere Drogen, Inaugural Dissertation, Universität München. 1994:71-72.

11. LeMaire I, Assinewe V, Cano P, Awang D, Arnason JT. Stimulation of interleukin-1 and-6 production in alveolar macrophages by the neotropical liana, Uncaria tomentosa (uña de gato). J Ethnopharmacol. 1999;64:109-115.

12. Sommers C. Immunity and inflammation. In: Porth CM. Pathophysiology: Concepts of Altered Health States. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 1998: 189-212.

13. Wurm M, Kacani L, Laus G, Keplinger K, Dierich MP. Pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids from Uncaria tomentosa induce human endothelial cells to release a lymphocyte- proliferation- regulating factor. Planta Medica. 1998;65:701-704.

14. Steinberg P. Uncaria tomentosa (cat’s claw): a wondrous herb from the Peruvian rainforest. Townsend Letter for Doctors. 1994;442-443.

15. Saventaro Cat’s Claw and Cancer Therapeutics. The Doctor’s Prescription for Healthy Living. 1999; 4:16-17.

16. Susan Love MD. Complementary and alternative therapies: maitake mushrooms. Accessed April 7, 2002. http://www.susanlovemd.com /comp_alt_frames.html.

17. Kidd PM. The use of mushroom glucans and proteoglycans in cancer treatment. Altern Med Rev. 2000;5:4-27.

18. Adachi Y, Okazaki M, Ohno N, Yadomae T. Enhancement of cytokine production by macrophages stimulated with (1-->3)- beta-D-glucan, grifolan (GRN), isolated from Grifola frondosa. Biol Pharm Bull. 1994;17:1554-60.

19. Borchers, A.T., et al. Mushrooms, tumors and immunity. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 221(4):281-93, 1999.

20. Nanba H, Kubo K. Effect of Maitake D-fraction on cancer prevention. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1997;833: 204-207.

21. Shamsuddin AM. Vucenik I. Metabolism and cellular functions of IP6: a review. Anticancer Res. 1999;19:3733-3736.

22. Vucenik I, Yang G, Shamsuddin AM. Inositol hexaphosphate and inositol inhibit DMBA-induced rat mammary cancer. Carcinogenesis. 1995;16:1055-1058.

23. Vucenik I, Tantivejkul K, Zhang ZS, Cole KE, Saied I, Shamsuddin AM. IP6 in treatment of liver cancer. I. IP6 inhibits growth and reverses transformed phenotype in HepG2 human liver cancer cell line. Anticancer Res. 1998;18(6A):4083-4090.

24. Vucenik I, Zhang ZS, Shamsuddin AM. IP6 in treatment of liver cancer. II. Intra-tumoral injection of IP6 regresses pre-existing human liver cancer xenotransplanted in nude mice. Anticancer Res. 1998;18:4091-4096.

25. Vucenik I, Kalebic T, Tantivejkul K, Shamsuddin AM. Novel anticancer function of inositol hexaphos phate: inhibition of human rhabdomyosarcoma in vitro and in vivo. Anticancer Res. 1998;18:1377- 1384.

26. Ishikawa T, Nakatsuru Y, Zarkovic M, Shamsuddin AM. Inhibition of skin cancer by IP6 in vivo: initiation-promotion model. Anticancer Res. 1999;19:3749-3752.

27. Fleming T., ed. Inositol hexaphosphate. In: PDR® for Nutritional Supplements. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company; 2001: 222-223.

28. Fleming T., ed. Myo-inositol. In: PDR® for Nutritional Supplements. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company; 2001: 315-318.

29. Shamsuddin AM, Ullah A, Chakravarthy K. Inositol and inositol hexaphosphate suppress cell proliferation and tumor formation in CD-1 mice. Carcinogenesis. 1989;10:1461-1463.

30. Vucenil I, Yang G-Y, Shamsuddin AM. Inositol hexaphosphate and inositol inhibit DMBA-induced rat mammary cancer. Carcinogenesis.1995;16:1055- 1058.

31. Shamsuddin AM. Inositol phosphates have novel anticancer function. J Nutr. 1995;125(3 Suppl):725S-732S.

32. Shamsuddin AM. An anticancer cocktail: IP-6 and inositol. In: IP-6: Nature’s Revolutionary Cancer-Fighter. New York: Kensington Publishing Company; 1998:114-121.

33. Vucenik I, Yang G, Shamsuddin AM. Comparison of pure inositol hexaphosphate and high-bran diet in the prevention of DMBA-induced rat mammary carcinogenesis. Nutr Cancer. 1997;28:7-13.

34. Hirose M, Hoshiya T, Akagi K, Futakushi M, Ito N. Inhibition of mammary gland carcinogenesis by green tea catechins and other naturally occurring antioxidants in female Sprague-Dawley rats pretreated with 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. Cancer Letters. 1994;149-156.

35. Jenab M, Thompson LU. Phytic acid in wheat bran affects colon morphology, cell differentiation and apoptosis. Carcinogenesis. 2000;21:1547-1552.

36. Reddy BS, Hirose Y, Cohen LA, Simi B, Cooma I, Rao CV. Preventive potential of wheat bran fractions against experimental colon carcinogenesis: implications for human colon cancer prevention. Cancer Res. 2000;60:4792-4797.

37. Jariwalla RJ. Rice-bran products: phytonutrients with potential applications in preventive and clinical medicine. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 2001;27:17-26.

38. Wattenberg LW, Estensen RD. Chemopreventive effects of myo-inositol and dexamethasone on benzo[a]pyrene and 4 - (methylnitrosoamino) - 1 - (3-pyridyl) - 1 - butanone-induced pulmonary carcinogenesis in female A/J mice. Cancer Res. 1996;56:5132-5135.

39. Hecht SS, Kenney PM, Wang M, Upadhyaya P. Dose-response study of myo-inositol as an inhibitor of lung tumorigenesis induced in A/J mice by benzo. Cancer Lett. 2001;167:1-6.

40. Wattenberg LW, Wiedmann TS, Estensen RD, et al. Chemoprevention of pulmonary carcinogenesis by brief exposures to aerosolized budesonide or beclomethasone dipropionate and by the combination of aerosolized budesonide and dietary myo-inositol. Carcinogenesis. 2000;21:179-182.

41. Nishino H, Murakoshi M, Masuda M, et al. Suppression of lung and liver carcinogenesis in mice by oral administration of myo-inositol. Anticancer Res. 1999;19:3663-3664.

42. Keplinger, J. IMMODAL. Pharmaka GmbH, Volders, Austria. Personal communication (electronic mail). May 29, 2002

The Benefits of Eating Fiber

What is dietary fiber?

Fiber is the part of plant foods we can’t digest or absorb.2 Fiber has no calories and is not recognized as an essential nutrient. However, it seems the very make up of fiber is the key to its healthy benefits.

Fibers are classified into two categories according to their structure and how they work in the body. Insoluble fibers, such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, do not dissolve in water. Soluble fibers, such as gum and pectin, do dissolve in water. We need both types of fiber every day. Each form functions differently and provides different health benefits.2

Foods high in soluble fiber include oat bran, oatmeal, beans, peas, rice bran, barley, citrus fruits, strawberries and the edible part of apples. Oat bran has the most soluble fiber of any grain; however, the whole oat grain is a good source of insoluble fiber as well.2

Foods high in insoluble fiber include wholewheat breads, wheat cereals, wheat bran, rye, rice, barley, most other grains, cabbage, beets, carrots, Brussels sprouts, turnips, cauliflower and apple skin.2

How does fiber affect Cancer?

When we eat fiber, its bulk fills our stomach and leaves little room for foods containing fat.13 The less unhealthy fat we eat, the lower our chances are for developing cancer. In addition, eating lots of fiber also speeds up digestion through the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine (or colon), limiting the amount of time cancer causing chemicals can get into the bloodstream. Some fibers have been shown to actually absorb cancer-causing substances that then leave the body in the stool.14-18

While all women (and men, too) need the hormone estrogen, too much can lead to cancer, especially of the uterus and breast. Excess estrogen levels can occur as we get older and our estrogen ratios get out of balance. Eating a diet high in fiber can bind or soak up the excess estrogen, increasing the rate at which it is excreted from the body.9,33

How Does Fiber Effect Cholesterol?

When we eat a big bowl of oatmeal, we are much less likely to follow up with fried eggs and bacon. Soluble fiber also binds cholesterol as it moves through the intestinal tract. Since the fiber is not absorbed, the bound cholesterol is not absorbed, and out with the stool it goes.4, 19-22

The Food and Drug Administration has reported that in recent studies, total cholesterol levels dropped between 0.5 percent and 2 percent for every gram of soluble fiber eaten per day.23

High fiber intake can also significantly lower the risk of heart attack. In one study, men who ate the most fiber-rich foods (35 grams a day, on average) suffered one-third fewer heart attacks than those who had the lowest fiber intake (15 grams a day). In this study, each 10 grams of fiber added to the diet decreased the risk of dying from heart disease by 17 percent.24

How Does Fiber Effect Diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes, aptly named Type 1 and Type 2.25 Fiber is beneficial to both. In diabetes, glucose (sugar) builds up in the blood. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, the cells may be starved for energy. And, over time, high blood glucose levels can damage eyes, kidneys, nerves, and the heart.

Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose. Glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells.25 However, when people with diabetes eat the stickiest soluble fiber — the gums and pectins — these fibers coat the lining of the stomach and delay its emptying. As a result, sugar absorption is slowed after a meal and the amount of insulin needed is often lowered. 6,26,27

Fiber can actually help prevent Type 2 diabetes. This disease occurs most commonly in people who are overweight and middle-aged. Eating a high fiber diet can keep us away from those fried fatty foods that can pack on the pounds. High fiber diets can be loaded with fruits and vegetables, both low in calories and high in fiber.2 Studies have shown people who eat a diet high in fiber have a very low risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. 28-30

How Does Fiber Effect Obesity?

In fighting the battle of the bulge, fiber can be a real lifesaver. Eating large amounts of fiber keeps us from eating large amounts of high calorie and fat laden ice cream sundaes, fettuccini alfredo, and deluxe pizzas. High fiber food makes us feel fuller since fibers called cellulose and hemicelluloses take up space in the stomach. Our total food intake is less. Since high fiber foods are low in fat, not only do we take in less food volume, we take in less food fat, too. 31,32

How Does Fiber Effect The immune system?

A healthy immune system protects us from diseases we might catch, such as colds or the flu, as well as diseases that start in our own cells, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. White blood cells are the soldiers of our immune

system. They fight both foreign invaders and cancer cells. Studies have shown eating a high fiber diet can actually make white blood cells stronger and more effective disease fighters.10,32,33

How Does Fiber Effect Digestive Tract Health?

If we mostly eat foods low in fiber or with no fiber, the muscles that make up our colon walls don’t have to work very hard to move the fecal matter or stool through the system. The colon walls get lazy, lose their shape, and weaken. Weak colon walls can develop pockets where stool gets caught and bacteria can grow, causing serious infection. A high fiber diet keeps our colon’s muscles fit.11,36,37 Finally, constipation is most often caused by the lack of fiber. Fiber, especially insoluble fiber, keeps bowel movements large and soft. Large and soft stools are easier to pass and help prevent hemorrhoids, too.12,38

While it’s easy to see fiber can dramatically improve our health, it is still difficult to get enough. Many people find liquid fiber supplements gritty and unpleasant, and have a difficult time establishing a fiber routine. That’s where chewable fiber tablets can help us out. By providing an easy to eat, high source of fiber, chewable tablets containing both soluble and insoluble fibers can really improve our health.

How can a chewable fiber tablet improve our health?

Adding supplemental chewable fiber tablets to our diet can provide incredible health benefits in a totally convenient form. Chewable fiber tablets containing inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), two soluble dietary fibers, are particularly valuable. Both inulin and FOS have been extensively studied in the laboratory and in clinical trials, too.

Inulin (not to be confused with insulin) and FOS are naturally occurring dietary fibers that come from a variety of vegetables, expecially chicory root. Inulin and FOS have the most impact on the health of our colons. Because they are not absorbed from our stomach or intestines, they remain in the colon until they are excreted with stool. While inulin and FOS are in the colon, they increase the friendly bacteria, (commonly referred to as normal intestinal flora) by providing the nutrients they need to grow and multiply. Studies have shown that even inulin alone can increase the levels of friendly bacteria. These bacteria produce natural antibiotics that eliminate potentially harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli.39 Researchers believe adequate and consistent amounts of healthy intestinal flora can also keep us from getting colon cancer.

In a clinical trial, FOS was studied in children and babies who became sick with a gastrointestinal disease common in little kids. Not only did FOS decrease the diarrhea and vomiting, but the children felt better and were able to return to daycare more quickly.40 Unlike other fibers, inulin and FOS do not block, but rather improve the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Recently, human studies have determined adding inulin and FOS to the diet increased calcium absorption 20% to 58%.41,42

The most recent study of inulin involved young girls aged 11 to 14. Adolescence is the optimal time to build bones. Just like saving money in a bank that builds interest, we store calcium in our bodies by building bones. If we don’t get enough of this mineral from our diet, our bodies will take calcium right from our bones. The result can be osteoporosis, a serious disease that can result in brittle and porous bones that easily break.

In the study, 29 girls ate a fortified diet containing 1,300 mg of calcium during two three-week periods. During one of the three week periods, the girls were given 8 grams of inulin each day. During the other three-week period they were given a placebo of 8 grams of sucrose each day. The girl’s calcium absorption and calcium excretion were measured through urine tests. During the time period the girls received the inulin, their calcium increased significantly by 20%. That means these girls were able to store away 20% more calcium in their “bone banks.”41

How much fiber do we need each day?

The US Surgeon General, the American Heart Association, and the American Cancer Society all want us to eat 20-35 grams of fiber each day.43,1,44 We need to eat both kinds of fiber. Some simple ways to increase your fiber intake are to eat fresh fruit or vegetables rather than juice. Eat the skin and membranes of cleaned fruits and vegetables. Include bran, whole grain breads, and whole grain cereals in your diet daily.2

It’s important to know many commercial oat bran and wheat bran products (muffins, chips, and waffles) actually contain very little bran. They also may be high in sodium, total unhealthy fat and saturated fat. Just because bread or muffins are brown doesn’t mean they are good for you. Read the label carefully and check for the fiber content. If the product contains fiber, both the soluble fiber and insoluble levels of the product will be listed.2

What should I look for in a chewable fiber tablet?

The chewable fiber tablet should contain at least 2 grams total of the soluble fibers inulin and fructooligosaccharides, and insoluble fibers. The preferred insoluble fiber is from oat bran.

I have heard if you eat more fiber, you should drink more water. Do I need extra water with these types of chewable fiber tablets?

Drinking extra water is always a good choice. However, the above formula does not require you to drink water while you chew your fiber. Just chew and enjoy.

How many chewable fiber tablets should I take each day?

If the chewable fiber tablet you are taking has 2 grams of combined fibers, 1-2 a day is best to start with. You can adjust this dosage according to your comfort levels and daily fiber intake. Build dosages slowly, so your body can get used to the extra fiber. A large increase in fiber over a short period of time may result in bloating, loose stools, gas, and discomfort.2

Conclusion

Sometimes it’s embarrassing to talk about our colon, bowel movements, intestinal gas, and other things associated with expelling waste material from our bodies. Yet these bodily functions are very important for the crucial role they play in our health. Many doctors believe all health issues are related in some way to the process of digestion. Fiber is an excellent way to dramatically improve this process, which is interconnected to every single function in our bodies.

We know we need fiber. We know fiber can drastically improve our health, but we also know fiber can be a tough nut to swallow and sometimes hard to find. Until now. With a few dietary changes like eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, having whole grain cereals or bread at breakfast, and chewing 2 or more chewable fiber tablets every day, we can reap the benefits of healthy fiber.

Adding chewable fiber tablets that have at least 2 grams of total fiber, including inulin and FOS, to our diet is an easy way to get our fiber and improve our health. Increasing fiber in this manner can help prevent constipation, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

Fiber References

1. American Heart Association. Fiber, Available at: www.americanheart.org /presenter.jhtml?identifier-4574.

2. Grodner M, Anderson SL, DeYoung S. Fiber. In: Foundations and Clinical Applications of Nutrition: A Nursing Approach. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2000: 102-108.

3. Compher CW, Frankel WL, Tazelaar J, et al. Wheat bran decreases aberrant crypt foci, preserves normal proliferation, and increases intraluminal butyrate levels in experimental colon cancer. J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 1999;23:269-277.

4. Dengel JL, Katzel LI, Goldberg AP. Effect of an American Heart Association diet, with or without weight loss, on lipids in obese middle-aged and older men. Am J Clin Nutr. 1995;62:715-721.

5. Vajidar BU, Goyal VS, Lokhandwala YY, et al. Is dietary fiber beneficial in chronic ischemic heart disease? J Assoc Physicians India. 2000;48:871-876.

6. Toeller M, Buyken AE, Heitkamp G, de Pergola G, Giorgio F, Fuller JH. Fiber intake, serum cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular disease European individuals with type 1 diabetes. EURODIAB IDDM Complications Study Group. Diabetes Care. 1999:22:B21-B28.

7. Chandalia M, Garg A, Lutjohann D, von Bergmann K, Grundy SM, Brinkley LJ. Beneficial effects of high dietary fiber intake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med. 2000; 342:1392-1398.

8. Howarth NC, Satzman E, Roberts SB. Dietary fiber and weight regulation. Nutr Rev. 2001;59:129-139.

9. Rose DP, Lubin M, Connally JM. Effects of diet supplementation with wheat bran on serum estrogen levels in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Nutrition. 1997;13:535-539. 10. Felippe CR, Calder PC, Vecchia MG, et al. Fatty acid composition of lymphocytes and macrophages from rats fed fiber-rich diets: a comparison between oat bran and wheat bran enriched diets. Lipids. 1997;32:587-591

11. Howard MD, Gordon DT, Garleb KA, Kerly MS. Dietary fructooligosaccharide and gum arabic have variable effects on fecal and colonic microbiota and epithelial cell proliferation in mice and rats. J Nutr. 1995;125:2604-2609.

12. Schaefer DC, Cheskin LJ. Constipation in the elderly. Am J Fam Physician. 1998;58:907-914.

13. Ferguson LR, Harris PJ, Protection against cancer by wheat bran: role of dietary fibre and phytochemicals. Eur J Cancer Prev. 1999; 8: 17-25.

14. La Vecchia C, Ferraroni M, Francheschi S, Mezzetti M, Decarli A, Negri E. Fibers and breast cancer risk. Nutr Cancer. 1997;28: 264-269.

15. Jansen MC, Bueno-de-Mesquita HB, Buzina R, et al. Dietary fiber and plant foods in relation to colorectal cancer mortality: the Seven Countries Study. Int J Cancer. 1999;12:174-179.

16. Honda T, Kai I, Ohi G. Fat and dietary fiber intake and colon cancer mortality: a chronological comparison between Japan and the United States. Nutr Cancer. 1999;33:95-99.

17. Soler M, Bosetti C, Franceshi S, et al. Fiber intake and the risk of oral, pharyngeal and esophageal cancer. Int J Cancer. 2001;91:283-287.

18. McCann SE, Freudenheim JL, Marshall JR, Brasure JR, Swanson MK, Graham S. Diet in the epidemiology of endometrial cancer in western New York (United States). Cancer Causes Control. 2000;11:965-974.

19. Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, Popovich DG, et al. Effect of a very-highfiber vegetable, fruit, and nut diet on serum lipids and colonic function. Metabolism. 2001;50:494-503.

20. Leinonen KS, Poutanen KS, Mykkanen HM. Rye bread decreases serum total and LDL cholesterol in men with moderately elevated serum cholesterol. J Nutr. 2000;130:164-170.

21. MacMahon M. Treatment guidelines for hypercholesterolemia: time to consider soluble fibre. Int J Clin Pract. 1999;53:369-372.

22. Fernandez ML. Soluble fiber and nondigestible carbohydrate effects plasma lipids and cardiovascular risk. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2001;12:35-40.

23. Food and Drug Administration. Importance of Dietary Fiber. Available at: http//www.cfsan.fda.gov/
˜dms/qa-nut12.html. Accessed January 22, 2002.

24. Pietinen P, RimmEB, Korhonen P, et al. Intake of dietary fiber and risk of coronary heart disease in a cohort of Finnish men. Circulation. 1996; 94:2720-7.

25. Guven S, Kuenzi J. Diabetes mellitus. In: Porth CM. Pathophysiology: Concepts of Altered Health States. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 1998:810-812.

26. Giacco R, Parillo M, Rivellese AA, Lasorella G, Giacco A, D’Episcopo L, Riccardi G. Long-term dietary treatment with increased amounts of fiber-rich low-glycemic index natural foods improves blood glucose control and reduces the number of hypoglycemic events in type 1 diabetic patients. Diabetes Care. 2000;23:1461-1466.

27. Kalkwarf HJ, Bell RC, Khoury JC, Gouge AL, Miodovnik M. Dietary fiber intakes and insulin requirements in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. J Am Diet Assoc. 2001;101:305-310.

28. Liu S, Manson JE, Stampjfer MJ, et al. A prospective study of whole-grain intake and risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus in US women. Am J Public Health. 2000;90:1409-1415.

29. Meyer KA, Kushi LH, Jacobs DR Jr, Slavin J, Sellers TA, Folsom AR. Carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and incident type 2 diabetes in older women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;71:921-930.

30. Meyer KA, Kushi LH, Jacobs DR Jr, Folsom AR. Dietary fat and incidence of type 2 diabetes in older Iowa women. Diabetes Care. 2001;24:1528-1535.

31. Birketveldt GS, Aaseth J, Florholmen JR, Ryttig K. Long-term effect of fibre supplement and reduced energy intake on body weight and blood lipids in overweight subjects. Acta Medica. 2000;43:129-132.

32. Miller WC, Eggert KE, Wallace JP, Lindeman AK, Jastremski C. Successful weight loss in a self-taught, self-administered program. Int J Sports Med. 1993;14:401-405.

33. Haggans CJ, Travelli EJ, Thomas W, Martini MC, Slavin JL. The effect of flaxseed and wheat bran consumption on urinary estrogen metabolites in premenopausal women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2000;9:719-725.

34. Garritson BK, Nikaein A, Peters GN, Gorman MA, King CC, Liepa GU. Effect of major dietary modifications on immune system in patients with breast cancer: a pilot study. Cancer Pract. 1995;3:239-246.

35. Lim BO, Yamada K, Nonaka M, et al. Dietary fibers modulate indices of intestinal immune function in rats. J Nutr. 1997;127:663-667.

36. Murakami H, Iwane S, Munakata A, et al. Changes in intraluminal pressure in rat large intestines with aging and effects of dietary fiber. Dig Dis Sci. 2001;46:1247-1254.

37. Aldoori WH, Giovannucci EL, Rockett HR, Sampson L, Rimm EB, Willett WC. A prospective study of dietary fiber types and symptomatic diverticular disease in men. J Nutr. 1998;128:714-719.

38. Benton JM, O’Hara PA, Chen H, Harper DW, Johnston SF. Changing bowel hygiene practice successfully: a program to reduce laxative use in a chronic care hospital. Geriatr Nurs. 1997;18:12-17.

39. Gibson GR, Dietary modulation of the human gut microflora using the prebiotic oligofructose and inulin. J Nutr. 1999;129:1438S-1441S.

40. Saavedra J. Effects of long-term consumption of a weaning food supply supplemented with oligofructose, a prebiotic, on general infant health status. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1999;29:58.

41. Abrams SA. The effect of Raftilose Synergy 1 on calcium absorption in young adolescent girls. Internal report, Orafti Active Food Ingredients, Malvern, PA, 2000.

42. Coudray C, Bellanger J, Castiglia-Delavaud C, Remesy C, Vermorel M, Rayssignuier Y. Effect of soluble or partly soluble dietary fibres supplementation on absorption and balance of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc in healthy young men. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1997;51:375-380.

43. American Cancer Society. Nutrition for risk reduction. Available at: www.cancer.org/eprise /main/docroot. Accessed on December 4, 2001.

44. The US Surgeon General. Build a healthy base. Available at: http://www.health.gov
/dietaryguidelines/dga2000
/document/build.ht m#fruits. Accessed on December 4, 2001.

Fiber Health Fact:

Fiber has been shown to be beneficial in affecting cancer, cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, the immune system, and digestive tract health.

Test Your Immune System

Does your immune system need a boost? This test by Dr. Linda Page is quick and easy.

Where's Your Fiber?

Fiber Delights - Vanilla 60 Chewable tablets

Fiber Delights are a great-tasting, convenient way to get your daily fiber. You get natural fiber without having to swallow a gritty drink mix. Delicious Fiber Delights are convenient, chewable tablets you can take anywhere. This proprietary Fiber Blend is enriched with inulin fiber (inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) from chicory root) and oat (Avena sativa) bran fiber.

Nutraceutical Research

A growing body of evidence shows how nutraceuticals may offer many advantages for the future of medicine.

• Carotenoids
• Colostrum
• Cranberry
• Elderberry Extract
• Fucoidans, Alginates, Laminarines
• Glyconutrients
• Lo Han Kuo
• Lotus Seed
• Polyphenols