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Adrenal Cleanse

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Adrenal Gland and Hormone Action

An important function of the adrenal glands is to help the body handle stress. The body’s metabolic response to stress triggers the production of adrenal hormones. In order to prepare the body to handle physical, emotional or mental stress:

• Adrenal hormones speed up the metabolism rate in order to assist the body in coping with stress
• Adrenal hormones pump more blood to the muscles and brain, making the heart beat faster.
• Adrenal hormones increase respiration and blood pressure for extra energy.
• Adrenal hormones increase the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fats resulting in more energy for the body to utilize.
• Adrenal hormones activate blood clotting mechanisms to prepare for possible physical injury.

This adrenal action is called the "fight or flight" response which is the body’s reaction to a perceived threat. It is believed to be a carry over from ancient times when human beings had to deal with danger by either staying and fighting or running away.

The body produces adrenaline which speeds up the metabolism rate in order to handle stress properly. Once the stress is over, the process quiets down and the adrenals function normally again. Modern situations rarely require this "flight or fight" physical reaction, however, stress factors like anxiety, fear, overwork, chemical additives and preservatives in the diet, lack of sleep, exposure to environmental toxins and over-indulgence of alcohol, caffeine, drugs and smoking can cause adrenal exhaustion.

When stress continues over prolonged periods of time, the adrenal glands use up the body’s energy and nutrient reserves and may shrink in size. Overproduction of adrenal hormones caused by prolonged stress can weaken the immune system and inhibit the production of white blood cells that protect the body against foreign invasions. Adrenal exhaustion can manifest itself in chronic fatigue and illness, often the result of nutrient deficiencies caused by continued stress.*

Stress management is vital during this stage. A well-balanced diet, vitamin and herbal support, exercise and relaxation techniques, all play an important role in maintaining proper functioning of the adrenal glands.*

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Nutrients to Cleanse, Nourish and Support Adrenal Gland

The following nutritional supplements act to improve and promote adrenal gland activity.*

Vitamin C is utilized by the adrenal glands and prolonged stress can cause a depletion of Vitamin C in the tissues. Vitamin C is a necessary nutrient for the manufacture of hormones by the adrenal glands.*

It plays a critical role in the body’s immune system response to stressful situations by increasing the body’s white blood cells.* White blood cells protect the body from foreign substances by producing anti-bodies and T-cells. Ester C is absorbed faster into the blood stream and excreted more slowly than regular vitamin C supplements.

Amla extract, also know as Indian Gooseberry, is a rich source of natural vitamin C. Amla fruit juice contains nearly 20 times as much vitamin C as orange juice and a single fruit is equivalent to eating one to two oranges. Enhances the vitality of cell tissue, the immune response, capillary integrity and may assist with rebuilding body tissue.*

Ashwaganda extract, an ayurvedic "vitalizer." Ayurvedic medicine is the ancient medical system of India. The term "vitalizer" belongs to a particular group of rejuvenating herbs, for both men and women, that are considered highly beneficial in having regulating and energizing effects on the body.* They are similar to adaptogens in that they help the body maintain vitality by resisting the effects of stress. Ashwaganda helps maintain proper nourishment and support of the tissues, primarily muscle and bone, as well as supporting proper function of the adrenal glands.*

Astaxanthin is a member of the carotenoid family and is a powerful newly-discovered antioxidant that helps protect against more types of free radicals than any other antioxidant.* It is highly bioavailable because it binds to a lipid (fat) molecule and enters the bloodstream more readily than other antioxidants. Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble nutrient that is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which enhances its effectiveness. The natural form of Astaxanthin is derived from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis and is at least 10 times more effective as an antioxidant than beta-carotene. Astaxanthin supports the adrenal glands by alleviating oxidative stress and enhancing strength and endurance. The mitochondria is the site of the cell’s energy production and metabolic activity. The advanced pharmaceutical technology behind Astaxanthin provides an excellent delivery system for nutrients to penetrate the mitochondria of the cell, which promotes a cleansing and therapeutic action at the cellular level. Astaxanthin enhances the actions of Vitamin C and E in the body. Astaxanthin is 100-500 times more effective than vitamin E with inhibiting lipid peroxidation, which is the destruction of fatty acids and proteins in cell membranes that can cause oxidative damage. *Cumulative, oxidative damage to lipids in cell membranes may increase the risk of age-related health conditions. Results from clinical studies testing the safety of Astaxanthin have shown no known toxicity. astaZANTHIN^TM  brand Astaxanthin is a highly concentrated natural extract from H.pluvialis micro algae.  

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Astragalus Root is recognized as an adaptogen that can be used to restore energy and balance to the immune system.* Adaptogens help the body maintain vitality by resisting the effects of stress. They are used synergistically with other tonifying herbs to enhance strength and promote energy.* In Chinese medicine, astragalus root is classified as a tonic that supports the immune system and promotes resistance to stress.* The polysaccharides in astragalus are the chemical compounds that have immune enhancing activity.*

B vitamins are necessary for a healthy nervous system and for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.* Stress, alcohol, tobacco, excessive sugar and caffeine and stress can decrease the levels of B vitamins in the body. B vitamins are essential for nerve tissue and help in the formation of normal red blood cells and antibodies.* Antibodies are a special blood protein that are synthesized by the body in response to the invasion of potentially dangerous foreign substances.B1, B2 B6 and B12 are particularly important for healthy adrenal function.

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that is necessary for the absorption of B vitamins and the healthy function of the adrenals.* Zinc is an essential nutrient for the manufacture of hormones by the adrenal glands, especially during times of stress.* Zinc plays an important role in maintaining a strong immune system.*

Ginger is an excellent digestive aid * and enhances the synergy of other herbs.* It is excellent for the circulatory system and helps improve stamina during times of stress. *

Korean Ginseng is an adaptogen that enhances adrenal gland function.* Adaptogens help the body maintain vitality by resisting the effects of stress. They are used synergistically with other tonifying herbs to enhance strength and promote energy.* In Chinese medicine, Korean Ginseng is considered a tonic that protects the body against physical and mental fatigue and promotes resistance to stress.*

Piper Nigrum (black pepper) is recognized, in the botanical classification of herbs, as a mild herbal stimulant, that when combined with other herbs, helps to increase, circulation, warm the body and restore vitality.* In Ayurvedic medicine, black pepper is one of the first things to take as it stimulates the body’s defense mechanism.* 

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Adrenal Gland Function

The adrenal glands are located just above the kidneys. They are responsible for many vital bodily functions including:

• Adrenal Glands manufacture adrenal hormones, adrenaline and nor-adrenaline, during stress.
• Adrenal Glands produce 28 different hormones.
• Adrenal Glands assist with the digestion of carbohydrates and fats.
• Adrenal Glands regulate minerals and maintain water balance in the body
• Adrenal Glands work with the thyroid gland to provide and sustain energy levels.

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Reprinted with the exclusive permission of Health Plus, Inc.