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Herbs For Health
  • Presented by:
  • Kelly Atteberry, RD, LDN
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PBRC Botanical Research Center
  • Center Director:  William Cefalu, MD
  • One of six centers across the United States being funded by National Institutes of Health.
  • Focus: Metabolic Syndrome
    • Obesity
    • Insulin resistance
    • High blood pressure
    • High triglyceride and cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Cardiovascular disease

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PBRC Botanical Research Center
  • Three major current research projects
    • Investigating an alcoholic extract of Russian Tarragon on Insulin Action
    • Determining how an extract of Shilianhua (Chinese herb) may stimulate energy expenditure and insulin action
    • Evaluating how supplements of Grape Anthocyanins may increase insulin sensitivity and decrease abnormal accumulation of fat in muscle and liver
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STEVIA- Stevia rebaudiana
  • Native to Paraguay and other parts of South America.
  • The Guarani Indians of Paraguay call it “kaa jhee” and use it to sweeten their Yerba Mate tea.
  • Also known as “Sweet-leaf” or “Honey-leaf”.
  • It has been used safely for centuries to sweeten coffees and teas and for Medicinal properties.
  • Commercially cultivated in over 20 countries worldwide.
  • Used in Japan and accounts for almost half of the sweeteners used.
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"More than 60 years ago"
  • More than 60 years ago, European scientists isolated Stevioside, the most abundant glycoside in the Stevia plant.  Stevioside makes Stevia sweet.
  • It is 200-300 times sweeter than sucrose (sugar).
  • Zero calories, 0 grams of Carbohydrate, and 0 score on the Glycemic Index.
  • Stevia leaves contain Chromium, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Selenium, Zinc, and Vitamin B3 (Niacin).
  • Over 100 phytochemicals have been discovered.  Especially rich in terpenes and flavonoids.
  • ¼ of a teaspoon is equal to 1 cup of sugar.



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Medicinal Properties
  • More than 200 scientific journals covering the safety aspects of Stevia products.
  • Diabetes, Hypo/Hyperglycemia.
  • Indigestion
  • Yeast Infection
  • Tooth decay prevention, plaque retardant
  • Eczema and acne control
  • Anti-bacterial agent
  • Wound healing


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Medicinal Properties
  • Decreases Inflammation
  • Decreases Uric acid levels- Gout
  • Prevention of Rotavirus
  • Treatment of High Blood Pressure and other vascular disorders
    • Dilates blood vessels
    • Natural Diuretic
    • Acts like Calcium Channel Blocker medications.
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Stevia and Diabetes
  • Diabetes is a disease of metabolism.
  • Diabetics either do not produce enough insulin to move glucose into the cells, or the body is resistant to the insulin that is produced.
  • Insulin helps glucose (sugar) enter cells, where it is used for energy.
  • When insulin is not available or is not used properly, glucose is not taken up into the cell and remains in the bloodstream, this causes blood sugar to rise above a safe level.


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Stevia and Diabetes
  • Complications from high blood sugar levels:
    • Retinopathy- can lead to blindness.
    • Nephropathy-kidney damage leading to dialysis; high blood sugar and blood pressure damage kidneys filtering system.
    • Cardiovascular disease- from stress on blood vessels and nerves throughout the body.
    • Neuropathy-nerve damage.


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Clinical Research
  • Over 200 published scientific studies on safety of Stevia documented.
  • Studies cover:
    • Insulin action
    • Hypertension
    • Inhibitory effect on tumor promotion
    • Promoting Satiety
    • Fertility
    • Mutagenic Activity
    • Toxicity


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Clinical Research at PBRC
  • Based on Obesity epidemic and rising rate of Diabetes.
  • Replacement of sugar, to decrease caloric intake.
  • Promotes feeling of Satiety or satisfaction.
  • Positive effect on caloric substitution.
  • Feeding tests to measure satiety using Stevia, Aspartame, and Sucrose.


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Comparison of Sweeteners
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 Comparison of Sweeteners
  • Splenda-(Sucralose) made up of two molecules of Sugar and three molecules of Chlorine.
  • Side effects:
    • Skin rashes/flushing
    • Panic-like agitation
    • Dizziness and numbness
    • Diarrhea
    • Muscle aches and headaches
    • Intestinal cramping
    • Bladder issues
    • Stomach pain
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"Scientists are calling Splenda a..."
  • Scientists are calling Splenda a Mild Mutagen.
  • Industry experts claim that Splenda is similar to salt biochemistry, while others say it has more in common with pesticides.
  • Do not give to children, due to the many unknown effects of this product.
  • Further research is needed on long term effects.
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Aspartame and Saccharin
  • Aspartame is linked to MS, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, other Central Nervous disorders; also linked with depression and manic episodes; can result in an accumulation of formaldehyde in the brain.
  • Saccharin can be carcinogenic in humans in sufficient doses.
  • Artificial sweeteners are body toxins and confuse your brain.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children and teenagers should avoid artificial sweeteners due to possible irreversible cell damage.
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Advantages of Stevia
  • Non-toxic
  • Non-caloric
  • Heat stable
  • Not Fermentative
  • Flavor enhancing
  • 100% Natural
  • No aftertaste or bitterness
  • Non-carcinogenic
  • Non-addictive sweetener for children
  • Safe for Diabetics and PKU (Phenylketonuria) patients.
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Current Practical Uses
  • Japan is the largest consumer of Stevia leaves and extracts in the world;
  • Uses to sweeten everything from soy sauce to pickles, confections, and soft drinks.
  • Coca-cola uses Stevia extracts to sweeten foods for sale in Japan, Brazil, and other countries where it is approved as a food additive.
  • It is not approved as a food additive in the U.S., it is considered a herbal/dietary supplement.
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Cinnamon
  • Cinnamonmum
  • Major types:
    • Cinnamonmum Cassia- predominate form found in the U.S.
    • C. zeylanicum- “True cinnamon”- originally from Ceylon or Sri Lanka.
    • C. tamala- Indian cassia- native to India
    • Indonesian cassia (C.burmannii), and Saigon cassia (C.loureirii), native to Indonesia.


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Cinnamon
  • C. cassia- has a stronger taste, dark color, and is the predominate form in the U.S.
  • “True Cinnamon”-lighter in color, sweeter, and has a more delicate flavor than C. cassia.
  • The active ingredient in both varieties is Methylhydroxy chalcone polymer (MHCP) increases glucose metabolism in regard to glucose uptake, glucose transport across cells, and glycogen synthesis.
  • The bark of the tree is dried and used for a spice.
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Cinnamon
  • Contains antioxidants and other active ingredients which are found in the water-soluble portions of cinnamon, and not the cinnamon oil.
  • Research studies show that C. cassia extract has greater benefits for blood glucose and insulin levels than C.zeylancium (“True Cinnamon”) extract.
  • C. cassia has also been found to decrease, Serum Glucose, Triglycerides, and Total Cholesterol in people with Type II Diabetes when taking 1-6 grams per day.
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Cinnamon
  • Cinnamon extract seems to have the best effect on diabetic patients with poorly controlled glycemic levels.
  • Other medicinal uses:
    • Anti-microbial
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Anti-fungal
    • Anti-oxidant
    • Cinnamon Bark Extract seems to work best.  It can be found in tablets, capsules, drops, and teas at local health food stores and on the Internet.
    • Other spices such as cloves, bay leaves, and turmeric have displayed insulin-enhancing activity as well.




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Capsinoids
  • Effect of Capsinoids on Resting Metabolic Rate.
  • Capsinoids are naturally present in chili pepper and have shown to be able to increase fat oxidation in humans.
  • Capsinoids are analog compounds to capsaicin but lack the strong pungency.
  • Capsinoids have been shown to increase energy expenditure, decrease body weight and body fat in pre-clinical studies.
  • Conducting a double-blind, placebo, controlled study testing the impact of different doses of capsinoids: 1, 3, 6, and 12 grams.
  • Capsinoids are also know for helping increase circulation.
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Capsicum
  • Medicinal Properties
      • Decreases Inflammation
      • Increases Circulation and blood flow
      • Increases Fat Oxidation
      • Eases Arthritis pain
      • Relieves muscle and joint stiffness
      • Inhibits certain cancer cells
      • Clears sinuses
      • Alleviate varicose veins
      • Shrink hemorrhoids
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Herbal Use with Cancer Patients
  • 88% of all cancer patients seek help from herbs and other alternative therapies.
  • After all, the potent anti-cancer drug Taxol comes from the bark of the Yew tree.
  • The FDA doesn’t require clinical testing for herbs and supplements as it does for conventional drugs.
  • Please be cautious and check with your doctor before trying a new herbal remedy or supplement.
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Green Tea
  • Tea leaves are not fermented, so the active constituents remain unaltered in the herb
    • Vitamins
    • Minerals
    • Antioxidants: Polyphenols,
    •       Catechin called EGCG

  • Medicinal Uses:
    • Lowers Total Cholesterol
    • Increases Antioxidant activity in blood and helps to kill cancer cells
    • Help prevent Atherosclerosis
    • Effectively Inhibits Metastasis in studies of skin cancer cells
    • Stimulates the production of several immune system cells
    • Topical Antibacterial properties
    • Protection against liver damage
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Green Tea
  • Available forms:
    • Dried Leaf Tea
    • Extracts made from leaves and leaf buds
    • Capsules and liquid preparations
  • Suggested Use:
    • 3 cups of green tea per day
    • 300-400mg per day of standardized green tea extract
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Acai Berry
  • Pronounced “Ah-sigh-ee”
  • The ORAC value (a measure of antioxidant properties) is higher than any other berry on the planet.
  • 10 times more antioxidants than grapes and 20 times more than blueberries
  • Rich in Omega 3, 6, & 9 fatty acids; resembles that of Olive Oil
  • Excellent source of Fiber
  • Rich in Amino Acids and Protein
  • Good source of Vitamins and Minerals: A, B1, B2, B3, C & E;
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Acai Berry
  • Available forms:
    • Juice
    • Puree
    • Freeze-dried powder extract
    • 100% Pure Organic
    • No Sugars Added
  • Suggested Use:
    • One or more ounces per day; there is no limit to how many ounces one consumes;


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Acai Berry
  • Health Benefits:
    • Strengthens immune system
    • Boosts energy levels
    • Improves digestive function
    • Improves mental clarity/focus
    • Is an extremely powerful antioxidant
    • High in Fiber
    • Strengthens Cell Membranes
    • Fights Cellular Mutation
    • Fights bacteria and viruses
    • Cleanses and Detoxifies the body
    • Decreases Inflammation
    • Improves Circulation
    • Helps maintain healthy heart function
    • Helps stabilize blood sugar levels
    • Relieves Arthritis pain
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Acai Berry
  • The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published study results that showed extracts from the acai berries triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86% of leukemia cells tested in lab studies.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 98% of the population is nutritionally deprived of vital nutrients
  • 6 out of 10 leading causes of death are related to nutritional deficiencies
  • The National Cancer Institute estimates that 1-in-3 cancer deaths is diet related and 8 out of 10 cancers have a nutrition/diet component
  • Over 40% of cancer patient’s actually die from malnutrition, NOT from cancer!
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Nutrition and Diet
  • Cancer generates chemicals that decrease appetite while increasing calorie needs.
  • A well-nourished cancer patient can better manage the disease and protect healthy cells against the toxic effects of treatments.
  • The Cancer Diet is just as important as the Cancer Treatment.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • Top Ten Anti-cancer Food Categories:
    • 1. Vegetables- rich in antioxidants and anti-cancer nutrients, have a preferred lower glycemic index, and are rich in cleansing fiber.
      • Cruciferous vegetables- cabbage, collards, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, mustard greens turnips, and radishes.
      • Dark leafy green vegetables- romaine lettuce, spinach, arugala, asparagus, and other greens.
      • Garlic and onion family- onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and shallots.
      • High in Beta-carotene- carrots, yams, squash, pumpkin, turnips, yellow, orange, and red bell pepper.


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Nutrition and Diet
  • 2. Fruits- rich in antioxidants and anti-cancer nutrients, and are beneficial for digestion.
    • Apples, grapes, apricots, oranges, peaches, berries, bananas, etc….
    • Try to always use organic unsprayed fruits due to high pesticide use.
  • 3. Whole Grains- provide the most important bio-chemical balance for health; high in anti-oxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
    • Brown rice, 100% whole wheat products, quinoa, oats, barley, millet, buckwheat, etc….
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 4. Beans and Legumes-  supply high quality protein necessary to rebuild tissues and maintain a healthy immune system;  a great source of fiber;
    • Soybeans, pinto beans, kidney beans, garbonzo beans, black beans, lima beans, etc…
  • 5. Fish- (preferably cold water fish)  supply anti-cancer fats, which slow down the spread of cancer, stimulate immune functions, and contain trace minerals from the sea that are not commonly found in foods from our mineral depleted soil.
    • Salmon, Haddock, Halibut, Bass, Cod, Tuna, other fish from deep ocean waters.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 6. Yogurt and Probiotics- 80% of the immune system lines the gastrointestinal tract; Probiotics can fortify the body’s defenses against infections and cancer.
    • Antibiotics wipe out friendly bacteria, which can cause overgrowth of yeast; Probiotics can decrease side effects of Antibiotics.
    • Increases Immune function by replacing the “bad” bacteria.
    • Probiotics can detoxify toxins in the gut.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 7. Healthy Fats:
    • The human body uses fatty acids to do everything from building cell membranes to performing key functions in the brain, eyes, and lungs.
    • Fatty acids perform a wide variety of functions in the body, functions so vital to our health and well-being that we would instantly fall over and die without them.
    • Excess fat or the wrong kind of fat or not enough fat soluble antioxidants can lead to a fragile immune system, cancer-causing damage to the DNA, excess production of tumor promoting hormones, and more.
    • Use healthy fats such as: Vegetable oils, Olive and Flax oils, Avocados, Raw nuts and seeds, Cold water fish;
    • Avoid: foods containing partially hydrogenated oils, trans fats and animal fats.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 8. Healthy Herbs and Spices:
    • These seasonings add flavor and therapeutic anti-cancer and immune-stimulating ingredients:
      • Mustard, curry, hot peppers, salsa, cinnamon, garlic, onions, ginger, sage, rosemary, thyme, and other seasonings that replace the typical unhealthy American “fat, salt, and sugar” approach to flavoring foods.
  • 9. Sea vegetables:
    • Kelp, including dulse, nori, wakame, and other varieties, are rich in anti-microbial agents that keep pathogens from invading our guts.
    • Kelp has a special soluble fiber that carries harmful fats and toxins out of the gut.
    • Kelp is the best source of the many trace minerals that are in the ocean and need to be in the human diet, but are not available in our soil.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • 10. Water:
    • Two thirds of our bodies is made of water.
    • Water helps cleanse and dilute impurities, stabilize acid/base balance, and provide a healthy flow of nutrients into the cells and toxins out of cells.
    • Everyone should drink as much natural water (i.e. natural spring water or natural artesian water) as they can, up to a gallon a day.
    • Use a water filter system or bottled water from a reputable vendor.
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Nutrition and Diet
  • Foods and Ingredients to Avoid:
    • Sugar and processed foods- including corn syrup,
    •     high-fructose corn syrup, sugar filled beverages, etc..
      • Sugar feeds cancer cells!
    • Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated fats
    • MSG- Monosodium Glutamate
    • Sodium Nitrate/Nitrite
    • Enriched, processed, refined flours and grains.
    • Artificial sweeteners, coloring and flavors.


    • ** Read Ingredient Labels Thoroughly!
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Daily Guidelines
  • Eat as many Organic fresh fruits and vegetables as you can on a daily basis.
  • Drink lots of clean and safe water.
  • Take vitamin and mineral supplements as needed and as directed by your health practitioner.
  • Limit your Salt and Sugar intake.
  • Increase your Fiber intake with 100% whole grains.
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For Further
Interest and Research
  • www.naturalmedicine.com
  • www.naturaldatabase.com
  • www.mskcc.org – Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center under Integrative Medicine
  • www.nccam.nih.gov- National Institutes of Health Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  • www.herbsforcancer.com
  • http://www.healthandage.com
  • http://ods.od.nih.gov – Office of Dietary Supplements under the National Institutes of Health
  • “The Herb-Drug Interaction Handbook” by Sharon Herr
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"“Let food be thy..."



  • “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food ”
  • Hippocrates