When Natural isn’t Better

The word “natural” has gotten out of hand. In fact, it’s become a downright misnomer (a name used incorrectly). In the health business we overuse the term to emphasize the perceived goodness or purity of something, like a dietary supplement or a food product. And it certainly adds marketing value to our buying and selling activity. NATURAL SELLS. But what does the word natural actually mean, and if something does qualify as natural, does that imply without dispute that it’s absolutely safe and beneficial for everyone under all conditions?

Body Athletic

“Positive health requires a knowledge of man’s primary constitution and of the powers of various foods, both those natural and those resulting from human skill. But eating alone is not enough for health. There must be exercise of which the effects must likewise be known. If there is any deficiency in food or exercise, the body will fall sick.”

Hippocrates - 5th century BC

The Super Antioxidants

The multiple and extraordinary benefits of antioxidant nutrients have been well defined in both exercise physiology and functional medicine for many decades now. In a nutshell, antioxidants protect healthy cells from the oxidizing or damaging effects of oxygen free radicals - from which no one can escape. Antioxidants are made in the body and may be obtained through natural food and dietary supplements. Since no one can survive without oxygen, and breathing oxygen produces free radicals, we have a problem. This is known as the oxygen paradox.

Sports Nutrition for Kids

Dear Cory:

My husband and I are both very active. We play competitive recreational sports, exercise with weights and run on a regular basis. For many years now, we’ve been eating organic foods and buying vitamins from the health food store. My question concerns our 3 children, ages 8, 11 & 13. Are the performance supplements you recommend for athletes, such as creatine or whey protein isolate, safe for them to take? Our son plays hockey, and our two girls play volleyball, basketball and compete in track & field.

Why Doctors Don’t Prescribe Natural Health Products

Ever wonder why most physicians don’t prescribe herbs, antioxidants or homeopathic remedies as a primary defense and treatment against disease? In this article I will attempt to provide a rational explanation.