MCT oils are absorbed in the bloodstream, passing the digestion process that longer chain fats go through. MCT oil provides quick energy for the body and therefore is less likely to be stored as body fat. MCTs are such an easy source of fuel, they are even more likely to be burned off than low-fat fare. When MCT is metabolized in the body, it behaves like a carbohydrate not a fat.

Unlike other fats, it does not go through the lymphatic system. Instead, it is transported directly to the liver where it is metabolized and released like a carbohydrate and then is used for fuel. MCT has a thermogenic effect in the body, helping you to stay slim by keeping your body fat levels down while keeping energy levels up. MCT oil is easily absorbed by the body and is therefore ideal for individuals with digestive problems. For those with Crohn’s and irritable bowel syndrome, the healing effects of MCT oil could be beneficial. MCT promotes intestinal health by killing troublesome microorganisms that may cause chronic inflammation.

Diabetics could benefit from using MCT oil as it helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Supplementation of MCT oil began as a fat source to help treat diseases such as cystic fibrosis, obesity and fat malabsorption. Bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts have used MCT for its fat burning and energy-sustaining powers. It has been found that MCTs burn three times more calories for six hours after a meal than other fats. It is thought that MCTs stimulate production of thyroid hormone, improving thyroid function boosting metabolism.

Athletes benefit from the use of MCT oil for both weight gain and weight loss. Bodybuilders must consume incredible volumes of food to put on size. We have found that adding MCT oil to their diets is an easy way to increase the caloric intake of their food without increasing the volume that they must eat. Since MCT acts like a carbohydrate and not a fat, athletes do not increase their body fat percentages while increasing their calories with this product. Since MCTs are thermogenic, not only are athletes increasing their muscle mass, but they are decreasing their fat percentages at the same time.

For many people, weight control has been an elusive, self-punishing struggle for which there seems to be no answer — No matter what you do, the pounds won’t come off. Poor choices, bad habits, wrong thinking and emotional over-eating are often the likely culprits of weight gain, but there are certain medical issues, such as problems with individual biochemistry and metabolism, that can pack on the pounds. Of the 65 percent of the population who is overweight, there is a group of people who are weight-loss resistant. If you are in this situation, know that these medical conditions are studied, and there are ways to correct them.

Do you find yourself thinking, “I eat well and exercise and don’t understand why I still don’t lose weight, or I just can’t seem to get rid of these few extra pounds no matter what I’ve done…?”

Dr. Simeons’ & HCG

Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, a specialist on obesity and weight regulation, introduced a program that has helped many people overcome weight loss resistance. The program utilizes a natural hormone that is produced during pregnancy called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). Dr. Simeons’ theory is that HCG acts on the hypothalamus to trigger a release of abnormal fat stores. When administered in small amounts and coupled with a restricted calorie diet, HCG enables people to lose up to a pound a day.

The Hypothalamus

We all have a small gland deep within our brain called the hypothalamus. This is the vital part of the body which controls all of the automatic functions of the body, including breathing, heart beat, digestion, sleep and the complicated functions of the endocrine (hormone) system. Included in these endocrine functions is the regulation and control of metabolism and weight.

Abnormal Fat Stores

Dr. Simeons identified three separate fat stores, Structural, Normal, and Abnormal. Structural fat pads the various organs, protects the arteries and cushions the bony prominences. Normal fat is a bank from which the body can easily draw energy. Abnormal fat is a bank much like a savings account where fat is stored and basically locked away. This fat is very difficult to lose via exercise and calorie restriction. HCG mobilizes and eliminates these fat stores.

Dr. Nirvana is now offering a personalized HCG Diet Plan that addresses all components of your holistic, natural medical weight loss objective. As a New Year’s incentive, she is offering the entire program for only $199.

In the beginning, you will receive a comprehensive packet of information about the steps to HCG Weight Loss success.  Remember that the Diet will help to address imbalances in metabolism and restore the body’s optimum ability to balance its hormones naturally. Weight loss is a side-benefit of this specialty treatment. A disciplined dieter could lose up to 45 lbs. of abnormal fats per cycle. Most patients can average around 25 lbs per a 40 day cycle. Whatever your desired results, you will work closely with Dr. Nirvana to customize the plan in stages to achieve maximum results.

Your new body is just steps away….call to get started on your path to a leaner, happier, healthier body today!

Appointments can be made by calling (949) 836-6991

Click here to watch a video on HCG

Are sugar substitutes really as good as we would like to believe? There are many “naturally derived” sugars or substitutes such as Truvia, Stevia, Xylitol, and Agave, but how do they interact in the body?
Stevia in its raw form was deemed safe for the human system in small amounts, but the body cannot metabolize Stevia. I used to use Stevia when there was nothing else offered but would also take my digestive enzymes to assure that the useless molecules did not harm my digestive tract. Now that they have altered Stevia and mix it with other harmful ingredients such as erythritol (such as that in Truvia), I prefer raw sugar rather than a substitute sugar.

Just the fact that the word is “substitute” should warn us that the digestive system can’t digest it to make glucose nor can our immune system recognize it or defend us (80% of our immune system is in our digestive tract) and so the body can’t use it for energy.
One of the major manufacturing sources was birch tree scraps where it first originated in Finland many years ago. It is said that a German first used it in the 1800s. Here in the US it many times comes from corn, and remember — our corn is mostly genetically modified. I think you need to know for sure what it comes from and what else is in it or blended with it. Some sugar alcohol may be absorbed better than others, but you certainly would need to get it from outside the US. Manufacturers have gotten very good at blending it with other substitutes.

My two greatest concerns and the reason I do not use it personally nor suggest it is the same as any sugar substitute. First, they take up the place in our cell that is meant for glucose. The problem here is that it has no or too low calories/energy and it in turn affects the health of our cells. For me personally that is enough of a reason to stay away from derivatives. My other concern is the fact that sugar alcohols are not fully broken down by digestion. This means it makes its way to the large intestine and, like other poorly digested sugars or sugar/polysaccharide molecules purposely formulated to be indigestible, will promote the growth of opportunistic microorganisms in the colon. They can leak back out into the blood and cause problems with steroid hormones. They can also move into the small intestine after taking over the large intestines and attack the disaccharides on the villi and render them useless. This promotes IBS, gut permeability and/or dysbiosis.

Please understand that is the case for every sugar substitute.
Agave says it is organic and it is picked in the early part of the day, etc. Their marketing is really good, but not quite true. The big giveaway was that they mention in their marketing it is the same plant as tequila. That got me thinking about how they process tequila! The manufacturers filter the juice and then heat it. This hydrolyzes the carbohydrates into sugar. The tequila in comparison may actually be healthier to the body than processed agave sugar. I say this because this hydrolyzed form is fructose and referred to as inulin. Inulin is a fermented prebiotic type of substitute sugar that cannot be digested, and it goes to the large intestine (intact) and is known to grow or stimulate opportunistic bacteria. Agave sugar substitute is neither organic nor carries the organic seal. It is not showing a high glycemic factor because the glycemic measurements are for glucose only. Agave is mostly fructose. There are some who are using patent fermentation processes and this is where the inulin comes in.

What does this all mean? Gut permeability, metabolic syndrome, glucose intolerance, allergies and it is not good for diabetics. I certainly would not give it to children or actually anyone.

Above all remember that the sweetness of these substitute sugars tricks the body by creating a signal to our system to release insulin. In answer to the signal for a rise in glucose, we over-produce insulin. This can lead to hypoglycemia, metabolic syndrome, hormone dysfunction and weight gain — all this plus gut permeability. There is a cost to our system by the use of sugar substitutes. So if absolutely necessary moderation is the key….and most importantly we need to train our lovely tastebuds in appreciating the NATURAL FLAVORS in foods.

Stress:  Stress has varied presentations and effects on the human immune system.  The best way to summarize thirty years research into stress and immunity would really be you how your response to the stress makes a very big difference in how it affects your immunity.  Generally stress has negative effect on immunity; however some stressors are more damaging than others.  Keeping a healthy relationship to your own stressors (not feeling like a victim, talking about it, changing your surroundings, exercising etc.) is the best way to minimize any negative effect stress may have on your body.

Diet:  A few basic principles can guide healthy eating habits.  Sugar is a stressor on the immune system, so any excess sugars should be minimized in order to improve immune function.  Simple sugars and refined processed foods are the worst offenders, but all sugar intake should be limited.  In general lean protein sources, high fiber carbohydrate containing foods and lots of brightly colored vegetables offer the most nutrition per calorie, and the least likely negative effect on immunity and health.

Additionally, a diet supportive of proper GI flora balance (the bacteria that live in the GI tract and maintain digestive and immune function there) may have a great impact on your general immunity.  In general occasional supplementation with lactobacillus acidophilus, bifido bacteria and fructo-oligo saccharides (FOS) are enough to aid this portion of immunity.  Antibiotic use orally, chronic illnesses and stress can decrease these good bacteria, so supplementing after those events is recommended.

Vitamin D has known anti-viral properties and has been directly associated with fighting influenza. During an active infection extra vitamin D is required.  Supplementation for a few days after an illness can replenish the body stores of Vitamin D if the person had good levels prior to the illness.

As a wonderful alternative to the flu-vaccine, a Homeopathic Immune remedy (Engystol) has been shown to help the body’s ability to fight infections and viruses. As a natural approach to against the traditional flu-vaccine, Engystol is free of any viral particles or preservatives, making it safe for the elderly and children as well.

To receive your Homeopathic Immune Booster for only $25, please contact Dr. Nirvana.

Three of the most common drug types (antibiotics, antidepressants, and oral contraceptives) are among the many that readily add to the cascade of nutrient deficiencies.

The knowledge that long-term use of many drugs leads to nutritional deficiencies of specific nutrients is not new; it has been documented by a large number of studies done over the last three decades.
Women should be especially concerned with drug-induced nutrient depletion. Few women know that oral contraceptives lower the levels of such vital nutrients as Vitamin B2, B6, and B12, Vitamin C, folic acid, magnesium and zinc. Mainstream hormone replacement (chiefly Premarin, but also Estratab and raloxifene) can also lead to deficiencies in Vitamin B6, magnesium and zinc. Heart patients, diabetics, epileptics and heavy users of corticosteroids and anti-inflammatories are also particularly at risk for drug-induced nutrient deficiencies.

A person suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease is likely to be deficient in coenzyme Q10, folic acid and magnesium. Unfortunately, the drugs commonly prescribed for cardiovascular disease and hypertension tend to deplete those very nutrients. Some of the side effects of those drugs may in fact stem from drug-induced nutrient deficiencies. To compound the irony, chances are that if the patient had been taking CoQ10, folic acid and magnesium, there may not have been a need for these dangerous drugs. Thus, millions of people develop serious disorders in which nutrient deficiencies play a significant role; the same people then end up taking medications that often further deplete various critical nutrients.
More common medication that cause nutrient depletion include aspirin and other salicylates, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Celebrex unfortunately also depletes folic acid. Methotrexate, used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and various cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma, is notorious for depleting folic acid. Likewise, the use of corticosteroids, barbiturates such as Phenobarbitol, sulfa drugs such as Bactrim, certain antibiotics, diuretics and oral contraceptives can cause a deficiency of folic acid.

So what is the take home message….? To constantly replace the precious vitamins that the body is being stripped of constantly. Whether this is via stress or drugs of any kind, it’s important to take a daily multi-vitamin to nourish the body’s need.

Nutrient 950 is a complete hypo-allergenic, nutrient rich, highly bioavailable multi-vitamin, multi-mineral and trace element supplement. It contains superior mineral cofactors and activated vitamins, and provides an excellent antioxidant profile. For ordering information, please contact Dr. Nirvana.

Chocolate and cocoa contain a high level of flavanoids and/or antioxidants, specifically epicatechin , which may have beneficial cardiovascular effects on health. The ingestion of flavonol-rich cocoa is associated with acute elevation of circulating nitric oxide, enhanced flow-mediated vasodilation, and increased microcirculation. . According to research at Cornell University, cocoa powder has nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine, and up to three times the antioxidants found in green tea. It also contains magnesium, iron, chromium, vitamin C, and zinc.

Prolonged intake of flavonol-rich cocoa has been linked to cardiovascular health benefits, though it should be noted that this refers to raw cocoa and to a lesser extent, dark chocolate, since flavonoids degrade during cooking and alkalizing processes. Milk chocolate’s addition of whole milk reduces the overall cocoa content per ounce while increasing saturated fat levels, possibly negating some of cocoa’s heart-healthy potential benefits. Nevertheless, studies have still found short term benefits in LDL cholesterol levels from dark chocolate consumption.

This is why Dr. Nirvana has formulated a product, which she refers to as her “Yum, Yum Truffles”, to contain simple, whole food ingredients that not only taste delicious, but also contain the health benefits of chocolate’s antioxidant power. There is no cooking or heating in the formulation of the Truffles; therefore, the maximum potential of the antioxidants and other nutrients are maintained. The recipe includes organic cocoa powder, organic cocoa butter, and organic agave nectar. ..that’s it. So healthy, so decadent, and oh so delicious! Chocolate lovers rejoice, there’s no better excuse to eat chocolate than Dr. Nirvana’s Yum Yum Truffles!

For more information on ordering your own Yum Yum Truffles, please contact Dr. Nirvana directly at DrNirvana@DrNirvana.com.

This is why…one of the most commonly used binders you will see listed on the “other ingredient section” is magnesium or calcium stearate. So what is a stearate?

Magnesium stearate, stearic acid and calcium stearate, are made by hydrogenating cottonseed or palm oil which are used throughout the supplements industry as lubricants. They are added to the raw materials in supplements so that production machinery will run at maximum speeds. This ensures that production schedules will meet profit targets.

Cottonseed oil has the highest content of pesticide residues of all commercial oils; cotton crops are heavily sprayed. In the hydrogenation process, the oil is subjected to high heat and pressure in the presence of a metal catalyst for several hours, creating a hydrogenated saturated fat. Hydrogenated vegetable fats contain altered molecules derived from fatty acids that may be toxic and are certainly harmful to your health.

Another problem with stearates: concentrated doses of stearic acid suppress the action of T-cells, a key component of the immune system. The article “Molecular basis for the immunosuppressive action of stearic acid on T cells” appeared in the journal Immumology in 1990.

So how much stearic acid are you actually getting from your daily intake? Up to 5% of the average 1000 mg capsule or tablet is magnesium stearate. That’s 50 milligrams. Suppose you take 8 capsules or tablets a day. That’s 250 a month – or 12,500 mg of this hydrogenated oil, nearly half an ounce. That works out to about 6 ounces of hydrogenated oils a year, from just 8 pills a day. Many people take more supplements, and ingest pounds of this toxic oil we try to avoid in our diets – while directly inhibiting the utilization of the nutrients they’re supplementing!

So remember to read labels and know that there are supplements out there, generally those sold through health-care practitioners that are “nutraceutical-grade”, to avoid these harmful and useless substances.

1. Understand what “good” fats do. The body uses these substances for many functions, including creating energy, maintaining cells, transporting vitamins and creating hormone-like compounds that help regulate blood pressure and heart rate. Healthy fats also can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

2. Go for monounsaturated fats … Good food sources include olive oil, fish oil, avocados and olives – yes, fruits can contain healthy fats – and most nuts.
3. Polyunsaturated fats … Soybeans, whole-grain wheat and vegetable oils, including corn, saffron, sunflower and soy, contain these fats.

4.Omega-3 fatty acids. These types of polyunsaturated fats appear to lower the risk of coronary artery disease and may guard against irregular heartbeats and high blood pressure. Go for salmon, herring, flaxseeds, walnuts and leafy green vegetables.

5. Limit trans and saturated fats. Trans fats are common in commercial baked goods such as crackers and cookies, as well as in fried foods like doughnuts. Saturated fats are most often found in animal products (full-fat dairy and red meat), partially-hydrogenated oils such as Crisco and coconut, palm and other tropical oils.

6. Use moderation. All types of fat are high in calories, so keep portions small. A handful of nuts – roughly 25 almonds, for example – is all you need for a snack. If you’re cooking with olive oil, spray a small amount into a non-stick pan or lightly brush the oil onto meat, fish or vegetables before grilling.

7. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY: Eat well and exercise. Weight gain doesn’t come from fat (or carbohydrates) per se – it comes from too many calories overall and not enough activity.

More than a decade of scientific evidence shows that incorporating walnuts in a healthy diet reduces the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel elasticity and plaque accumulation. Walnuts have also been shown to aid in the lowering LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and the C-Reactive Protein (CRP). CRP was recently recognized as an independent marker and predictor of heart disease.
FDA Approved Health Claim for Walnuts
In 2003, the FDA recognized the benefits of nuts and their role in heart disease prevention by approving a health claim for 7 kinds of nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, some pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts). These seven nuts were approved as they are the only kinds that contain less than 4g of saturated fats per 50g.
In response to a petition filed by the California Walnut Commission, the FDA further endorsed the health benefits of walnuts by approving the following health claim in March 2004.

“Supportive but not conclusive research shows that eating 1.5 oz of walnuts per day, as part of a low saturated fat and low cholesterol diet, and not resulting in increased caloric intake may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.”

Walnuts in a Healthy Diet
Nuts in general are high in calories, so moderation is the key. The best approach is to reap the health benefits of eating walnuts but not add excessive calories to your daily intake. Therefore, instead of just adding walnuts to your current diet, eat them in replacement of foods that are high in saturated fats (such as cheese and meat) and limit your intake of these tasty treats to the recommended 1.5 oz per day. That is about 20 walnut halves.
Walnuts add a flavorful crunch to dishes. Here are some simple ideas to incorporate walnuts in your diet:
instead of snacking on cookies, crack some walnuts open and eat them as snacks
instead of using meat, toss toasted walnuts in your salad or pasta to add some crunch
instead of layering pepperoni, use chopped walnuts in your pizza
instead of eating bacons or eggs, use walnuts as a protein choice by sprinkling chopped walnuts in your oatmeal or breakfast cereal

7 Reasons to Increase your Fiber Intake
To maintain cardiovascular health
To promote bowel regularity
To maintain cholesterol levels in the normal range
To maintain blood sugar and insulin levels in the normal range
To absorb intestinal and liver toxins, particularly during detoxification
To provide a food source for beneficial gut bacteria
To promote healthy weight management

Fiber works to absorb and eliminate toxins and waste (including bad cholesterol) from the body, which prevents them from being reabsorbed back into the bloodstream. Research have also deduced that fiber reduces the buildup of dangerous plaque in the arteries; therefore, reducing the risk for cardiovascular disease.
For a healthy digestive function, the bulk found in fibrous foods provides resistance for the colon muscles and stimulates peristalsis (the contractions that move food through the intestines).

As a weight management tool, fiber helps manage hunger and add bulk to a meal so you feel full longer after eating. High fiber foods also promote healthy blood sugar levels and can even work to eliminate calories via the stool!
The best way to receive your fiber is through a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and other fiber-rich plant foods. However, for those having a difficult time fitting these foods or the amount of the foods into their diet, a fiber supplement is strongly recommended. Ideally adults should consume a minimum of 25 grams of fiber daily.

Choosing the Right Fiber Source
There are primarily 2 kinds of fiber supplements available: flax-based and psyllium-based. Flax is considered by many to be a better fiber source for 4 important reasons:

Flax provides a better natural balance of insoluble fiber to soluble fiber than psyllium
Flax contains “lignans”. Lignans are antioxidant-rich plant compounds that provide significant health benefits. Flax contains about 100x more lignans than any other fiber source

Flax is available in an organic form, whereas psyllium is not
And most importantly, flax contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. As we know, these essential fatty acids are vital to a host of benefits including anti-inflammatory effects.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to bulk up on your fiber asap