DHEA Restoration Therapy - Men & Women

DHEA Restoration Therapy
Hormone Replacement Therapy

It's no accident that youth is associated with high levels of hormones. Produced throughout the body, sex hormones are critical to maintaining vibrancy and good health. In recent decades, scientists have begun to understand the powerful benefits of replacing hormones lost to aging. However, there are serious questions about the safety of conventional hormone replacement therapy, which relies on hormones that are synthesized from animals (Premarin ®) or created in a lab (Provera ®). Most recently, the widespread prescribing of these two hormones among menopausal women has come under scientific scrutiny because of the increased risk of stroke and heart attack.

As an alternative, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may be one of the best things aging people can do for themselves because of the wide-ranging benefits of bioidentical hormones on everything from the cardiovascular system to the aging brain and bones. What is required, however, is an approach that harnesses the wisdom of the body and relies on bioidentical hormones to replace those that decline with age.
In 1981, Life Extension introduced dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in an article that described the multiple anti-aging effects of this steroid hormone. At the time, DHEA replacement therapy was almost unheard of. Today, however, DHEA replacement therapy has been studied extensively, and decreased DHEA levels have been implicated in heart disease, high cholesterol, depression, inflammation, immune disorders, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, HIV, and osteoporosis (Hauffa BP et al 1984; Valenti G 2002; Valenti G et al 2004).


But what is DHEA exactly, and how does it work? DHEA is the most common steroid hormone in the body. It is produced mainly by the adrenal glands, and to a lesser extent, elsewhere in the body (including fat cells). DHEA is metabolized from pregnenolone, the body's “master hormone,” which itself is metabolized from cholesterol. DHEA can be metabolized into other sex hormones, including testosterone and the estrogens, and up to 150 individual metabolites.

Although there are still important research questions to answer, there is no question that youthful DHEA levels are closely associated with good health, and that low levels have been connected to various diseases. Unfortunately, after about age 35, DHEA begins to decline (Pavlov EP et al 1986; Nafziger AN et al 1998). Women, who tend to have lower levels, lose DHEA much more quickly than men as they age. Concentrations remain roughly 30% higher in men (Orentreich N et al. 1984). DHEA levels also vary according to ethnicity (Orentreich N et al. 1984; LaCroix AZ et al. 1992; Hornsby PJ 1995). By age 70, DHEA may be only 20% of young-adult levels (Belanger A et al 1994).

Modern hormone replacement therapy strives to recreate the youthful balance of hormones in the body—and this is where DHEA's value really stands out. Because it is metabolized into other hormones, supplementing with DHEA may allow the body to choose which hormone is needed, then synthesize that hormone from the available DHEA. This may account for the astonishing range of benefits that many researchers attribute to this hormone. DHEA's separate metabolites, including 7-Keto DHEA, have also been shown to have individual benefits, including lowering cholesterol, burning fat, and boosting the immune system.

There are many provocative theories that may one day help explain DHEA's role in certain diseases. For instance, many elderly people suffer from high cholesterol levels, which are a risk factor for heart disease. In this age group, the rate of heart disease rises much more rapidly among women than men, partly because of the loss of hormones during menopause. Clearly, there is a link between heart disease and sex hormones, and this phenomenon raises an intriguing possibility. Because sex hormones are synthesized from cholesterol, perhaps elevated cholesterol levels represent the body's attempt to supply more of the raw materials for hormone production. Indeed, one study showed a drop in cholesterol levels after comprehensive natural hormone therapy (Dzugan SA et al 2002).

As part of a comprehensive approach to fighting the diseases of aging, Life Extension recommends that people monitor their blood levels of DHEA and strive to reproduce hormone levels of a healthy 21-year-old. Fortunately, DHEA is well tolerated as a supplement, with only minimal side effects even at relatively high doses.

What You Have Learned So Far DHEA is a hormone that is produced from the synthesis of pregnenolone. It may be metabolized into testosterone or estrogen. DHEA is the most prevalent steroid hormone in the body. Low DHEA levels are clearly associated with a range of diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, inflammation, Alzheimer's, and others. DHEA levels drop dramatically as people age. There are pronounced differences in the average DHEA levels of men and women, with women on average having lower DHEA levels. DHEA replacement therapy can restore youthful DHEA levels.

DHEA: Fighting Inflammation

Inflammation is an insidious condition, and we are learning more every year about its association with a host of diseases. Inflammation is caused by internal chemicals called inflammatory cytokines that are released as part of the immune system response. These chemicals, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin 1(beta) [IL-1(β)] and/or leukotriene, are present in greater concentrations as we age. Reducing the concentration of inflammatory cytokines to reduce the risk of serious disease is one goal of nutrient and hormone therapy.

DHEA supplementation has been shown to improve several aspects of the immune system―cytokine production and T-cell, B-cell, natural killer cell, and monocyte function―in postmenopausal women and elderly men (Khorram O et al 1997). DHEA appears to be especially valuable against IL-6 and TNF, both of which are elevated in patients with inflammatory arthritis (James K et al 1997; Straub RH et al 1998; Straub RH et al 2002a; Leowattana W 2001). Systemic lupus erythematosus is another chronic inflammatory condition, affecting approximately 1 in every 700 women, usually younger women (Sullivan KE 1999-2000). Treatment of this type of lupus with DHEA (50 to 200 mg daily) caused clinical improvement and decreased lupus flares by 16% (van Vollenhoven RF et al 1998; Chang DM et al 2002).

DHEA in Women

Throughout their reproductive lives, women experience higher levels of estrogen produced by the ovaries. This estrogen has a cardioprotective effect, which accounts for women's lower rates of heart disease. However, around age 50, women undergo menopause, or the failure of the ovaries and the cessation of menstruation. This period is distinguished by a rapid drop in the level of sex hormones, including estrogen, DHEA, testosterone, pregnenolone, and progesterone. Various diseases have been connected to this rapid loss of hormonal protection, including heart disease and osteoporosis (Lock 1994). While many of the symptoms of menopause are caused by the loss of estrogen, there are also side effects associated with the drop in DHEA and testosterone among menopausal women, including:

• Decreased libido
• Decreased strength
• Decreased muscle mass
• Decreased bone density
• Decreased energy (Braunstein G 2002)

In menopausal women, DHEA therapy is sometimes androgenic. In other words, it tends to raise the blood levels of male sex hormones such as testosterone (Belaisch J 2002), which accounts for the small risk among some women of increased hair growth (Stomati M et al 2000). However, there is growing evidence that a modest increase in testosterone benefits women. For example, it appears to improve bone metabolism and decrease menopausal symptoms (Davis S 1999), as well as increase sexual desire (Turna B et al 2005).
One analysis of existing studies found the DHEA had these benefits among postmenopausal women:

• A 30 mg to 50 mg daily dose improved mood, sense of well-being, and sexual appetite and activity among women with adrenal insufficiency (Buvat J 2003).
• A long-term trial of women over 60 reported significant increases in bone mineral density (Buvat J 2003).
• A study among women aged 70 to 79 showed improvements in sexual desire, arousal, and enjoyment (Buvat J 2003).

DHEA in Men

Studies of men have shown that DHEA replacement therapy is an important complement to testosterone therapy. Among aging men, the amount of “free” testosterone, or testosterone that is available to the body, falls more quickly than the level of total testosterone. Thus, it is important to design a hormone replacement program that raises the level of free testosterone. In a 1997 study, DHEA levels were shown to parallel the levels of free testosterone in the blood. The study authors suggested that DHEA might help raise free testosterone. If this conclusion is correct, then DHEA replacement therapy would not only raise the blood level of DHEA, but also the level of free testosterone (Morley JE et al 1997).

Still, other studies have shown that DHEA may be an effective therapy for erectile dysfunction. Although there are conflicting studies in this regard, a few have shown that among men without heart or vascular disease, DHEA has been able to improve erectile dysfunction (Belaisch J 2002).

Cancer: Hope and Caution

In any discussion of hormone replacement therapy, the question of cancer will naturally arise. Certain cancers, especially breast and prostate cancer, may be hormone mediated. In other words, supplementation with hormones may cause cancer cells to proliferate. For this reason, men and women with histories of hormone receptor cancers, or with existing tumors, are warned away from hormone therapy that might aggravate their conditions.

The situation, however, is not clear-cut. In numerous lab studies, DHEA has shown anti-cancer properties (Schwartz AG et al 1993; Yang S et al 2002; Yoshida S et al 2003; Jiang Y et al 2005). Similarly, low levels of DHEA are associated with cancer (Gordon GB et al 1988; Leowattana W 2001). According to studies using animal models and cell cultures (both animal and human), DHEA has been shown to inhibit cancer development in a number of tissues, including:

• Mammary gland (Schwartz AG 1993; Lubet RA et al 1998)
• Skin (Schwartz AG et al 1993)
• Colon (Nyce JW et al 1984; Osawa E et al 2002; Pelissier MA et al 2004)
• Liver and thyroid (Moore MA et al 1986)

DHEA and breast cancer. Because DHEA may be converted into estrogen, women with breast cancer are advised not to begin DHEA therapy, which may theoretically increase the severity of their cancer. To date, no large studies have been conducted on the use of DHEA in women with breast cancer. Healthy women taking DHEA should also monitor their blood levels of estrogen and free testosterone to make sure that DHEA is creating youthful hormone balance.

DHEA and prostate cancer . Men should not begin DHEA therapy before having their prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels tested and undergoing a digital rectal exam, to measure the size and consistency of the prostate. Men with prostate cancer or severe benign prostate disease are advised to avoid DHEA because it can be converted into testosterone, which may promote cell proliferation or cause an increase in DHT (dihydrotestosterone). However, among healthy men, one study showed that DHEA did not increase PSA levels (Jedrzejuk D et al 2003). To make sure DHEA is tolerated, men should consider having their DHEA bloodlevels tested every 6 or 12 months after beginning therapy, along with testing levels of free testosterone, estrogen, and DHT. The DHT form of testosterone plays an important role in the development of benign prostatic enlargement, and is believed to contribute to the progression of prostate cancer.

What do the Studies Say?

Many of the studies examining DHEA have found an overall benefit among study subjects, especially among the elderly. Nevertheless, it's helpful to understand some of DHEA's chemical interactions to gain insight into its many roles inside the body.

DHEA owes many of its beneficial properties to its ability to inhibit an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). DHEA's anti-cancer properties are due at least in part to its ability to inhibit G6PD (Williams JR 2000; Arlt W 2004). DHEA's cardioprotective properties may also be partly due to G6PD inhibition (Tian WN et al 1998; Schwartz AG et al 2004).

Beyond its broad benefits, however, a survey of studies on specific diseases found that DHEA was active in fighting many of the most frightening, including:

Alzheimer's Disease. Patients with Alzheimer's disease have higher levels of cortisol (the “stress” hormone) (Rasmuson S et al 2002) and imbalanced cortisol/DHEA ratios (Murialdo G et al 2000). In a group of severely afflicted Alzheimer's patients , Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels were significantly lower (Murialdo G et al 2000). Other studies have examined the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) among Alzheimer's patients. VEGF has been shown to protect the brain, and scientists now believe that low VEGF levels may be connected to the progression of Alzheimer's disease. DHEA-S was shown to significantly increase the bioavailability of VEGF in the brain, leading the study authors to conclude that it could be a valuable treatment for Alzheimer's and aging (Solerte SB et al 2005).

Cardiovascular Disease. There is a clear relationship between DHEA levels and cardiovascular disease: as DHEA decline, the incidence of cardiovascular disease rises in men (Barrett-Connor E et al 1987; Herrington DM et al 1990; Hautanen A et al 1994; Barrett-Connor E et al 1995; Feldman HA et al 1998) and in women (Johannes CB et al 1999). Diabetic men with the lowest DHEA levels have a significantly greater chance of developing coronary heart disease (Fukui M et al 2005). The risk of death is higher among those with the lowest levels of DHEA in men less than age 70 (Mazat L et al 2001).
DHEA play a protective role in the development of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (Gordon GB et al 1988; Eich DM et al 1993), especially among men. Several mechanisms are involved: inhibition of G6PD, which can modify the lipid spectrum; suppression of platelet aggregation; and reduced cell proliferation (Porsova-Dutoit I et al 2000). Men with lower DHEA-S are more likely to have atherosclerosis (Herrington DM et al 1990) and calcified deposits in the abdominal aorta (Hak AE et al 2002) . Because cortisol increases the risk of heart attack and the severity of atherosclerosis in men ( Laughlin GA et al 2000), raising DHEA levels to increase the DHEA/cortisol ratio has promise for reducing cardiovascular risk (Barrett-Connor E et al 1995). However, the same associations are lacking in women (Barrett-Connor E et al 1987) .

• Myocardial Infarction. Low DHEA is related to premature heart attack in men (Mitchell LE et al 1994). Severely ill cardiac patients and those with acute heart attack have lower DHEA levels for as long as 3 to 4 months after the event (Slowinska-Srzednicka J et al 1989; Ruiz Salmeron RJ et al 1992).
• Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic Syndrome is characterized by several conditions that are all associated with elevated risk for heart disease, including increased insulin resistance, obesity, and abnormal cholesterol levels. In metabolic syndrome, these individual risk factors act synergistically, raising the risk of heart disease higher than their individual risk levels alone. Although research is still continuing, scientists have linked elevated cholesterol to lower DHEA levels ( Nestler JE et al 1992). Long-term DHEA supplementation improves insulin sensitivity by 30%, raises high-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 12%, and lowers low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 11%, and triglycerides by 20% (Lasco A et al 2001). The lowering of low density lipoproteins (LDL) by DHEA has an antioxidant effect, which could have anti-atherogenic consequences (Nestler JE et al 1988; Nestler JE et al 1991; Kurzman ID et al 1990; Khalil A et al 2000). DHEA also decreases abdominal fat, an important characteristic of metabolic syndrome (Villareal DT et al 2000; Villareal DT et al 2004).

Cognitive Decline. One of the most distressing elements of aging is the loss of mental "sharpness." Once again, DHEA has been shown to improve measures of cognitive function in laboratory studies (Roberts E et al 1987; Flood JF et al 1988). Abnormal balances in the brain between DHEA-S and cortisol have been shown to decrease brain function (Kalmijn S et al 1998; Ferrari E et al 2001).

Depression. DHEA has been extensively studied in depression. DHEA levels are reduced in major depressive disorders in both adolescents and adults, and an elevated cortisol/DHEA ratio predicts a delay in recovery (Herbert J 1998; Ferrari E et al. 2004). Women lacking detectable DHEA have an increased
 occurrence of depression (Yaffe K et al. 1998).

DHEA has also been a useful remedy for depression (van Broekhoven F et al 2003). A well-conducted study by the National Institute of Mental Health found DHEA to be quite effective in treating midlife long-lasting, mild depression (dysthymia). The symptoms that improved most significantly were inability to gain pleasure from normally pleasurable experiences (anhedonia), loss of energy, lack of motivation, emotional “numbness,” sadness, inability to cope, and worrying (Bloch M et al 1999). In another study, 3 months of DHEA supplementation improved self-reported physical and psychological well-being in age-advanced individuals (Morales AJ et al 1994). These results were supported by a recent study that showed DHEA therapy improved depression among middle-aged people (Schmidt PJ et al 2005).

Diabetes. DHEA appears to increase insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is an early indicator of type 2 diabetes and is closely associated with obesity, which are both major risk factors for heart disease. A decrease in DHEA-S is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes (Kameda W et al 2005). Among women with deficient adrenal glands, DHEA supplementation was shown to significantly increase insulin sensitivity, and the study authors concluded that DHEA might be a valuable treatment for type 2 diabetes (Dhatariya K et al 2005). DHEA has also been shown to increase insulin sensitivity among obese women (Villareal DT et al 2004).

HIV/AIDS. HIV-positive men with lower DHEA levels have comparably lower CD4 cell counts (Dyner TS et al 1993) and are 2.3 times more likely to progress to AIDS (Jacobson MA et al 1991; Ferrando SJ et al 1999). HIV-positive men have a dramatically elevated cortisol/DHEA ratio that parallels their nutritional and disease status (Jacobson MA et al 1991; Christeff N et al 1997; Christeff N et al 1999; Chriseff NA et al 2000; Ferrando SJ et al 1999).

Immune system. DHEA has been shown to enhance the immune response against a wide range of viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens. In one animal study, DHEA supplementation showed a significant reduction in the level of internal parasites (Dos Santos TD et al 2005).

Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis (bone thinning) affects millions of late-middle-aged to elderly individuals of both sexes, but is more common in women than men. In women, a major contributing factor is the loss of estrogen at menopause, which parallels the decline in DHEA. DHEA appears to exert a positive role in bone metabolism by inhibiting bone resorption and stimulating bone formation (Labrie F et al 1997; Haden ST et al 2000). It also seems to aid calcium absorption (Carlstrom K et al 1988; Taelman P et al 1989). DHEA has proved effective in clinical trials treating osteoporosis (Villareal DT et al 2000). However, a correlation between DHEA and bone mineral density appears variably in women and not at all in men (Brody S et al 1982; Nordin BE et al 1985; Deutsch S et al 1987; Wild RA et al 1987; Barrett-Connor E et al 1993).

Stress. DHEA levels are closely tied to stress. Studies have shown that traumatic events such as burns or illnesses significantly decrease DHEA, testosterone, and androstenedione levels, while increasing the level of cortisol (Parker LN et al 1985; Lephart ED et al 1987; Wade CE et al 1988). Calmness, such as seen in individuals practicing transcendental meditation, is associated with higher levels of DHEA (Glaser JL et al 1992). In one study, participants in a stress-reduction program increased DHEA by 100% and reduced stress hormone production (cortisol) by 23% (McCraty R et al 1998).

7-Keto DHEA: The Perfect Partner

Among DHEA's many metabolites, one has attracted significant attention for its unique ability to lower cholesterol, burn fat, and improve the immune system. This metabolite, known at 7-Keto DHEA, is not converted into estrogen or testosterone, so it may be safely used among people with hormone-dependent diseases, including cancer.

Scientific studies have shown that 7-Keto can help people burn fat through a process known as “thermogenesis.” This means the body's metabolic rate is accelerated, generating heat and energy that consumes calories and burns fat. 7-Keto accomplishes this by boosting the levels of three liver enzymes that stimulate fatty acid oxidation.


In one study of 30 overweight adults, study subjects either received 100 mg of 7-Keto twice daily or placebo. They also participated in a supervised exercise and diet program. At the end of the study, those taking 7-Keto had lost 6.3 pounds on average, versus 2.1 pounds for the control group (Kalman DS et al 2000).

7-Keto has also been studied for its immune-boosting and cholesterol-lowering properties. In a study on cholesterol levels, human volunteers applied a gel containing 25 mg of 7-Keto for five consecutive days. At the end of the study, the subjects taking 7-Keto had experienced a rise in good HDL cholesterol and a slight reduction in harmful LDL cholesterol (Sulcova J et al 2001).

Another study looking at immune function found that four weeks of 7-Keto supplementation improved immune function in elderly men and women. In this study, subjects over age 65 took 100 mg of 7-Keto twice daily or placebo. The subjects on 7-Keto experienced a significant decrease in immune suppressor cells and an increase in immune helper cells (Zenk JL et al 2004).


Because 7-Keto is not converted into estrogen or testosterone, it may be the perfect complement to DHEA therapy, as well as providing an option for people who have hormone dependent cancers. In some women, high doses of DHEA may cause the growth of unwanted hair or acne. By adding 7-Keto to a daily program, it may be possible to lower the dosage of DHEA.

Life Extension Foundation Recommendations Because of the overwhelming evidence connecting low levels of DHEA to the degenerative diseases of aging, Life Extension suggests that all people over age 40 begin DHEA therapy. For most people, the starting dose of DHEA is between 15-75 mg, taken in one daily dose. Many studies have used a daily dose of 50 mg. One recent study showed that doses under 30 mg were not enough to significantly raise blood levels of DHEA in young adults (Cameron DR et al 2005). At these levels, DHEA has shown no major side effects. Ideally, DHEA replacement therapy should begin with blood testing to establish a base range. Since almost everyone over age 35-40 has lower than optimal levels of DHEA, most people begin supplementation and test their blood DHEA levels later to make sure they are taking the proper dose. Normal serum reference ranges and ideal ranges of DHEA-S are:   Normal (depending on age) Ideal Men 16.2-492 μg/dL 350-490 μg/dL Women 12-407 μg/dL 275-400 μg/dL After 3 to 6 weeks, another test is recommended to measure serum DHEA. All individuals react differently to DHEA replacement therapy, so it's a good idea to closely monitor your blood levels and side effects. If side effects appear, it may be possible to add 7-Keto DHEA and reduce the dose of DHEA. Those with liver disease should use DHEA sublingual tablets, which bypass liver metabolism. Otherwise, capsules containing the more common micronized DHEA are quite effective in restoring DHEA to youthful ranges.

DHEA Safety Caveats An aggressive program of dietary supplementation should not be launched without the supervision of a qualified physician. Several of the nutrients suggested in this protocol may have adverse effects. These include: DHEA (DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE) Do not take DHEA if you could be pregnant, are breastfeeding, or could have prostate, breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer. DHEA can cause androgenic effects in woman such as acne, deepening of the voice, facial hair growth and hair loss. For more information see the Safety Appendix Source: http://www.lef.org/protocols/metabolic_health/dhea_restoration_01.htm

What To Do If You Contract Influenza

What To Do If You Contract Influenza Including H1N1 (Swine) Flu or the Common Cold
By William Faloon

With daily news reports warning of a swine flu pandemic, members have besieged our health advisors with questions about what they should do to protect themselves against the H1N1 (swine flu) virus.

The good news is that Life Extension® members obtain a considerable amount of immune support via the supplements they already use, especially those taking high-dose vitamin D.

An important question, however, is what one should do if they develop symptoms of a viral infection? As the days grow colder, the risks of contracting common flu and cold viruses increase. Each year, flu virus infections kill around 36,000 Americans and cause miseries for millions.1 An outbreak of the swine flu virus is expected this winter.

While certain supplements (and drugs) purport to shorten the duration of a viral infection, most of them fail to provide significant relief. Over the past 28 years, Life Extension® personnel have experimented with various nutrients, hormones, and drugs in order to minimize the impact of the common cold and typical flu viruses.

In this article, I will reveal what has worked for me personally to ward off common cold/flu viruses and what has been validated in the scientific literature to be effective.

I will also elaborate on some aggressive prescription drug strategies to consider in the event that you contract a severe form of swine flu or other type of influenza.
Don’t Wait for Full-Blown Illness to Manifest

People often wait until they are very sick before seeking influenza treatment. This delay can preclude rapid eradication of the infectious agent. In some cases, treatment delay can be lethal.

I have found enormous personal benefit by taking aggressive actions upon the onset of the very first cold-flu symptom. I respond to a mild symptom the way some people do after they have suffered days of agonizing flu virus miseries. My strategy is to not let the virus gain a foothold in my cells. Up until now, my approach has apparently succeeded inasmuch as I have not suffered more than a day of significant cold-flu illness since January 1983.
Don’t Wait for Full-Blown Illness to Manifest

I am going to reveal my personal program in the following paragraphs, but the key point I want to emphasize is to immediately address the very first symptom of a cold-flu viral infection like it is the most lethal agent you have ever encountered. I analogize this approach to dropping a nuclear bomb when conventional weapons might be adequate. While some people wait until full-blown viral symptoms manifest, I don’t have a choice. Life Extension® is a 24-hour/day operation with no room for down time. I don’t have the luxury of calling in sick just because a virus has invaded my body.

If you were to contract swine flu (H1N1) or other influenza types, it is especially critical that you immediately initiate the antiviral drug therapies I will discuss later in this letter. Antiviral drugs can be effective, but only when they are initiated within 24-48 hours of the manifestation of symptoms.
Unleashing the Nuclear Bomb

I typically work an intense schedule with frequent exposure to sick people, yet I have gone 27 years without suffering a serious cold-flu viral infection.

While it would be convenient to credit the supplements I take every day, the fact is that I follow an aggressive protocol as soon as I feel that a viral infection may be taking hold. Scientific studies substantiate the individual components of what I do, but there have been no clinical trials to support the use of this entire protocol. I’ll discuss some of the research that supports my rationale later, but here are the drugs, nutrients, and hormones I take as soon as the first symptom of common cold or flu manifests:

1. Cimetidine in the dose of 800 mg (and higher) each day. This drug is sold over-the-counter in pharmacies to combat heartburn, but its beneficial side effect is to boost immune function by reducing T-suppressor cells, thereby keeping the immune system in a hyperactive state.2 While sold over-the-counter, it would still be wise to read the package insert in case this drug is contraindicated for you. For most people, cimetidine provides a powerful immune system stimulation that is particularly effective against certain viruses.

2. High-Allicin garlic in the dose of 9,000 mg once or twice a day. This potent form of garlic will cause painful stomach-esophageal burning if you don’t eat food right afterward. The intake of 9,000 mg of this kind of garlic will cause you to reek of a strong sulfur odor, but saturating the body with this pungent garlic is the objective. Garlic has shown direct virus-killing effects in a number of published studies.3,4

3. DHEA in the dose of 200-400 mg early in the day. This is much higher than normal,5 but DHEA has shown some unique benefits in boosting one’s ability to mount a stronger immune response and also protecting against dangerous inflammatory cytokine responses that sometimes occur in response to viral infections.

4. Lactoferrin in the dose of 1,200 mg a day. This natural constituent of mothers’ milk boosts natural killer cell activity and can kill certain viruses.6

5. Zinc lozenges in the dose of two 24 mg lozenges every two waking hours. Please be aware that this is a very high dose of zinc and is considered toxic if taken over the long term.7,8 You should only do this for a few days. Zinc has shown a direct effect of inhibiting the ability of cold viruses to latch onto your cells.6

6. Melatonin at bedtime in the high dose of 10-50 mg (ordinarily, melatonin is taken at levels of just 1–3 mg per evening). Melatonin induces a powerful immune response and this high dose can facilitate the deep sleep one often needs to fend off an infection. This dose of melatonin will make you extremely tired, so please only take this before bedtime and do not operate any machinery or vehicles after ingestion.9

7. Aged garlic extract in the dose of 3,600 mg a day. There are unique immune-boosting compounds in aged garlic that work differently than those found in high-allicin garlic.10

It is important to note that I take the above doses in addition to the supplements I use every day. My personal program closely resembles the Top Ten most important nutrients, hormones and drugs Life Extension® recommends to its members plus 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 each day.11 (Refer to www.lef.org/vitamins-supplements/Top10 for the current Top Ten list.)
Garlic’s Unsung Benefits

With all the high-tech advances occurring in medicine, garlic would appear to be a relic of the past. Yet the scientific literature documents that garlic has powerful effects against certain viruses.
Garlic’s Unsung Benefits

For instance, a study tested one capsule daily of an allicin-containing garlic supplement from November thru February on a group of 146 volunteers.12 Half the group received the garlic while the unfortunate other half got a placebo. The garlic group suffered 63% fewer common cold infections compared to the placebo group. Even more significant, those in the garlic group who did catch a cold suffered symptoms for an average of only 1.52 days compared to 5.01 days for the placebo group. This placebo-controlled study corroborates the benefits I have personally derived by taking much higher doses of high-allicin garlic as soon as cold symptoms are present.

The conclusion of the doctors who conducted this garlic study was, “An allicin-containing supplement can prevent attack by the common cold virus.” Considering the number of people afflicted with a common cold each year, you would think this would have been the lead news story of the day. Instead, this study remains buried in a scientific journal, while the medical establishment still states “there is no cure for the common cold.”

Ribavirin is a prescription drug that has potent antiviral effects.13-26 Yet a Chinese study showed that at least in the test tube, garlic is more effective than ribavirin in inhibiting viruses that attack the intestinal track.27 Life Extension® has recommended ribavirin to treat various viral infections since year 1983, but in this particular study, garlic was shown to be superior.

A number of published studies indicate that both high-allicin garlic and aged garlic support healthy immune function while exerting antiviral effects.28-34 Low-cost garlic may be nature’s most powerful weapon against certain viruses.
Cimetidine’s Life-Saving Side Effect

A little-known side effect of the heartburn drug cimetidine is that it inhibits the production of T-suppressor cells.2 In doing so, it boosts immune function by preventing the immune system from turning itself down.
What You Need to Know: How to Combat H1N1 Swine Flu

* During the winter months, the risk of contracting a cold or flu increases.

* With the threat of a swine flu pandemic, people are more concerned than ever about how to protect themselves and their families.
* Many nutrients and drugs can help prevent viral infections and hasten their resolution when they do occur.
* Nutraceuticals that may protect against flu include vitamin D, garlic (both aged and non-aged forms), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), lactoferrin, zinc lozenges, and melatonin.
* Pharmaceuticals that can help combat flu include cimetidine, Tamiflu®, Relenza®, ribavirin, and amantadine.
* Individuals who suspect they may have the flu should take action as soon as possible to fight the viral infection. Antiviral medications are typically only effective if initiated within the first 24-48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Cimetidine has shown other immune-modulating effects such as increasing natural killer cell activity and boosting levels of natural immune stimulants interleukin-2 and gamma interferon.35-38 Human studies demonstrate cimetidine’s efficacy against herpes and viral warts.35,39-42

Since cimetidine is safe for most people,43 taking 800-1,000 mg at night (or 200 mg three times a day and then 400 mg at night) seems like an effective way to temporarily turn up the immune system. Cimetidine in 200 mg tablets can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies. The directions in the over-the-counter package insert say that up to 800 mg a day is safe, but some published studies where cimetidine is administered as an antiviral agent have used up to 1000 mg a day.44
Mother’s Milk

It is well known that infants obtain protection against certain infections from components contained in mother’s milk. One such component is lactoferrin, which has well-documented immune-potentiating effects.45-47

Lactoferrin may stimulate macrophages, which in turn may help to induce cell-mediated immunity.48 Although many of the studies are on animals, lactoferrin is naturally present in many mucous membrane secretions in the human, suggesting an innate human antimicrobial function.6,49

A study showed that lactoferrin inhibits viral infection by interfering with the ability of certain viruses to bind to cell receptor sites.46
Immune-Boosting Hormones

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its metabolites have demonstrated powerful immune-enhancing and antiviral effects.50-54 The administration of 50 mg a day of DHEA to elderly men resulted in the following immune enhancements compared to placebo:55

* Increase of 35% in the number of monocyte immune cells
* Increase of 29% in the number of B immune cells
* Increase of 62% in B-cell activity
* Increase of 40% in T-cell activity
* Increase of 50% in interleukin-2
* Increase of 22% to 37% in natural killer cell number
* Increase of 45% in natural killer cell activity.

One reason that influenza can be so lethal to aging people is that their immune systems are weakened. A deficiency in DHEA appears to be partially responsible for the age-related decline in immune function.56 One study showed that a metabolite of DHEA augmented activation of T-helper cells and protected mice from a lethal influenza virus infection.54

Melatonin has broad spectrum immune-enhancing effects and has been specifically shown to decrease viral load and prevent death in mice infected with certain viruses. The conclusion of one melatonin study was:

“The immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects of melatonin suggest that this indole must be considered as an additional therapeutic alternative to fight viral diseases.”57

Another study examined the immune function benefits of melatonin and found that melatonin activated interleukin-2 and gamma interferon, the body’s natural hormone-like agents that facilitate T-helper cell production.58

Taking high-dose DHEA in the morning (200-400 mg) and high-dose melatonin (10-50 mg) before bedtime would appear to be logical approaches to follow when battling a viral infection.
Preventing Cold Viruses From Lodging in Your Body

A number of published studies show that if zinc lozenges are taken within 24 hours of the onset of common cold symptoms, the severity and duration of cold miseries are significantly diminished.59-62

Rhinoviruses are the medical term to define viruses that typically cause the common cold. Rhinoviruses attach to cell receptor sites in sinus and throat tissues, become lodged in nose-throat cells, and then replicate out of control.63 By binding to the same cell receptor sites as do cold viruses, zinc inhibits the ability of rhinoviruses to take hold in the body.

A meta-analysis of all the published literature on zinc lozenges was conducted in 2004 and the conclusion of the report was:
Dealing With Lethal Influenza Infections

“Clinical trial data support the value of zinc in reducing the duration and severity of symptoms of the common cold when administered within 24 hours of the onset of common cold symptoms. Additional clinical and laboratory evaluations are warranted to further define the role of ionic zinc for the prevention and treatment of the common cold and to elucidate the biochemical mechanisms through which zinc exerts its symptom-relieving effects.”59

The key here is to suck on two 24-mg zinc lozenges at the very first symptom of a cold and continue doing this every two waking hours. Once rhinoviruses bind to their receptor sites in the nasal tissues and begin replicating, zinc lozenges lose their efficacy. Considering how inexpensive zinc lozenges are, it makes sense to keep them in the medicine cabinet so that they are immediately available if cold symptoms manifest.

One caveat to remember is that chronic use of zinc in doses over 300 mg a day may suppress immune function.64 If one were to suck on two zinc lozenges every two hours over the course of a day, the amount of total zinc intake can easily exceed 300 mg/day. This does not appear to be a problem in the short term, but if you start taking zinc lozenges and your cold miseries do not subside, you would be better off ceasing it after a few days. Remember that less than 100 mg a day of zinc can improve immune function, whereas long-term use above 300 mg a day concerns some doctors.
Dealing With Lethal Influenza Infections

Be it the swine flu or a typical influenza virus, one should not take any flu virus infection lightly.

Way back in 2003, Life Extension® advised its members to take the prescription antiviral drug Tamiflu® if flu symptoms developed. A complete description of Tamiflu® can be found in the Influenza chapter of the Disease Prevention and Treatment (Life Extension Media, 2003) book or it can be accessed online at www.lef.org/flu.

Tamiflu® may be especially effective when initiated within 24-48 hours of contracting influenza or swine flu virus. Government health agencies stocked up on Tamiflu® a few years ago and rationed it when the avian flu raised concern. There is no longer a shortage and it should be available in most pharmacies as long as you have a prescription. Another antiviral drug called Relenza® may also be considered if you contract severe flu symptoms.

Ribavirin is a broad-spectrum antiviral drug. Life Extension® discovered its unique benefits in 1983 by giving it to cats that contracted feline leukemia, a viral disease. Ribavirin proved highly effective in curing feline leukemia in our limited use of it, yet no studies have been published to validate our serendipitous finding. Since 1983, Life Extension® scientists have personally taken ribavirin when flu symptoms occur, and it has proven highly effective on an anecdotal basis.

Tamiflu® is safer than ribavirin, and ribavirin should only be considered in cases of severe viral infection that do not respond to conventional therapies.

The Life Extension Foundation® waged a multi-decade war against the FDA to get ribavirin approved in the United States. The FDA finally capitulated and approved ribavirin as an adjuvant treatment for hepatitis C.

A concern with using ribavirin is that it has been shown to cause anemia in some people.65 This always puzzled us at Life Extension®, since we were not hearing of our members encountering an anemia problem in response to ribavirin. A recent study may have solved the mystery as to why our members did not suffer ribavirin-induced anemia. It turns out that ribavirin induces anemia at least partially by causing excess free radical damage to red blood cells.66 Since Life Extension® members typically take loads of antioxidants, they were unwittingly protecting themselves against ribavirin/free radical-induced anemia.

Whether ribavirin has efficacy against swine flu is unknown at this time, though ribavirin’s mechanism of action against common influenza viruses indicates it might produce additive benefits to either Tamiflu® or Relenza®. If you are severely stricken with influenza that is not responsive to any other treatment, ask your doctor to consider prescribing 400 mg of ribavirin to be taken three times a day until viral symptoms subside.
Vitamin D Boosts Immune Function and Suppresses Inflammation

Flu viruses (including swine flu) can induce a massive inflammatory response that can kill the victim in rare cases. In many cases, it is not the virus that kills, but the body’s hyper-reaction to the virus—in the form of uncontrolled over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Vitamin D downregulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha.67

By downregulating excess pro-inflammatory cytokine production, vitamin D could save the lives of those stricken with acute flu viruses. Some other cytokine-suppressing agents include fish oil,68-85 green tea,85-91 borage oil,92-94 curcumin,95-107 and flavonoids.108-117

Severe swine flu infection sometimes causes dangerous Staphylococcus bacterial infections to occur in the lungs.118 In addition to the proper antibiotics, vitamin D may also help combat concomitant staph infections. Here’s how:

Antimicrobial peptides are components of the immune system that protect against bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Secreted by immune cells throughout the body, antimicrobial peptides damage the outer lipid membrane of infectious agents (including influenza viruses), rendering them vulnerable to eradication.

Vitamin D upregulates the expression of these antimicrobial peptides in immune cells,119 providing a definitive biological mechanism to explain why vitamin D confers such dramatic protection against common winter illnesses. Those who contract concomitant bacterial infections with swine flu should also be prescribed antibiotic drugs.
Symptoms of Swine Flu

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), symptoms of swine flu infections, like seasonal flu infections, can include:120

* fever, which is usually high, but unlike seasonal flu, is sometimes absent
* cough
* runny nose or stuffy nose
* sore throat
* body aches
* headache
* chills
* fatigue or tiredness, which can be extreme
* diarrhea and vomiting, but more commonly seen than with seasonal flu

For most people, swine flu symptoms will abate within a few days and not cause a serious problem. A tiny minority of victims, however, develop life-threatening pulmonary infections that require ICU hospital care. (Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications from flu; pregnant women with suspected or confirmed H1N1 influenza infection warrant close observation, according to the World Health Organization.)

Here are the warning signs that should signal to anyone with swine flu to seek medical care urgently.120

In children:

* Fast breathing or trouble breathing
* Bluish skin color
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
* Fever with a rash

In adults:

* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting

Source: http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2010/jan2010_What-To-Do-If-You-Contract-Influenza_01.htm

Protect Your Genes From Deadly Mutations

Unfavorable genetic mutations are responsible for an estimated 6,000 diseases, including all cancers.1 Researchers believe that if this one factor were eliminated, humans would regularly live for 100 years or more.2

In the majority of cases, unfavorable genetic alterations are not inherited. They occur within a single lifetime as a result of exposure to environmental agents. A variety of natural compounds have been shown to block the toxicity of these mutagens—and protect the DNA.

Cancer results from the accumulation of mutations in genes that regulate cellular proliferation. Chlorophyllin is one of the most promising agents to protect against these deadly gene mutations.

The reason humans live as long as we do is because our cells are programmed to divide 45-55 times on average before they reach a point where they get too old to divide.3 This is known as replicative senescence. Our cells are naturally programmed to divide in order to continuously replace defective or dead cells—to extend our life span.

The nucleus within each cell houses our DNA—the genetic map that determines the life of the organism. DNA is the “blueprint” by which our cells reproduce themselves. If every cell’s DNA replaced itself perfectly during cell division, we would be more likely to achieve a life span of approximately 120 years.2

The problem, of course, is that genes can mutate. We either inherit or acquire those mutated genes. Mutations are random changes in the nucleotide sequence of our cellular DNA. They alter genetic expression. Some of these mutations are adaptive and favorable to human evolution. However, the vast majority of genetic mutations to our genes are not inherited. They occur over the course of our lifetime and are known as somatic mutations. These can introduce biochemical errors of varying degrees of severity.

Cumulative somatic mutations are one reason why cancer rates rise dramatically with age. They are largely the result of exposure to chemically active agents known as mutagens. These so called “enviro-toxins” have been detected in our food supply, everyday chemicals in detergents, cleansers and other consumer products, and in our environment.4
Neutralizing Dietary Carcinogens and Preventing Multiple Cancers

The link between cancer and genetic mutation has become much clearer in the past several years, with the discovery of tumor suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes. Tumor suppressor genes keep cell division within normal bounds, while proto-oncogenes drive the process of cell division forward. Mutations to either type of genes can result in cancer—the uncontrolled growth of cells.4,5

The list of diseases attributable to somatic mutation is growing rapidly.1 This is why it is so vitally important to block gene and DNA mutations during our lifetime using targeted antimutagenic agents. Among the most powerful mutation-blocking agents is chlorophyllin.6,7

Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble form of the plant pigment chlorophyll. Unlike some herbal ingredients that indicate cancer protection at high doses (hundreds of milligrams per kilogram of body weight in animal or human studies), chlorophyllin possesses anti-cancer and DNA damage-protection effects at much lower amounts. In fact, 40-100 mg of chlorophyllin three times daily is all many humans need to duplicate studies showing excellent protection against a wide range of dietary compounds that are known to cause cancer in humans and animals.8,9

Here, we’ll explore the latest research on chlorophyllin’s numerous health-promoting effects—from prevention of cancers caused by diet to managing a serious disease called leukopenia.8,9
Neutralizing Dietary Carcinogens and Preventing Multiple Cancers

As Life Extension Magazine® first pointed out over a decade ago, the integrity of human DNA is under constant assault owing to the way we cook our food. Well-done meats—grilled, fried, or barbecued beef, pork, and chicken with skin—contain varying quantities of the powerful carcinogens benzopyrene and PhIP (2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4,5-b] pyridine).8,10-12 Baking or stewing meat at moderate temperatures has not been shown to produce cancer-causing chemicals.

These cancer-causing agents are ubiquitous. Benzopyrene is so commonplace and poses such a threat to human health that some countries test all imported foods for benzopyrene content. In sufficient quantities, this potent carcinogen binds to DNA, causing severe genetic mutation in affected cells. Once these cells divide, they can become precancerous—or cancerous.13

Chlorophyllin appears to counter benzopyrene’s carcinogenic effect in four distinct ways:

* It limits the production of benzopyrene-DNA adducts—bioactive molecular structures formed when a carcinogen bonds with DNA.14
* It accelerates the degradation of BPDE (benzopyrene-7, 8-dihydrodiol-9,10-epoxide), the carcinogen formed when the body metabolizes benzopyrene.15
* It decreases the activity of enzymes in the liver that convert benzopyrene into its active form (phase I enzymes).14
* It activates enzymes in the liver that metabolize benzopyrene to a form that can be excreted harmlessly from the body (phase II enzymes).16-18

Chlorophyllin operates along similar biological pathways to neutralize other dietary carcinogens, including PhIP and aflatoxin from molds.8 By binding with them, it inhibits their absorption and speeds their transit through the gastrointestinal tract. This reduces adduct formation and tumor growth. 19-21

Similarly, its effects on phase I and phase II liver enzymes de-activate these dangerous agents22 and help the body to excrete them.16,17

Chlorophyllin’s unique capacity to halt the mutagenic activity of these carcinogens—and dramatically reduce incidence among numerous types of cancer—have been documented in a wealth of studies.
What You Need to Know: Chlorophyllin

* Chlorophyllin
Carcinogens in our food and environment can cause DNA mutations that lead to cancer and other diseases.
* Protecting against DNA mutations is crucial to preventing disease and prolonging life.
* A semi-synthetic, water-soluble form of chlorophyll called chlorophyllin demonstrates protection against numerous carcinogens found in the human diet and environment at modest daily dosages.
* Chlorophyllin may help fight cancer via numerous mechanisms, including: modulating enzymes involved in the metabolism of carcinogens, directly binding with dietary carcinogens to speed their excretion, and protecting against ionizing radiation.
* Experimental evidence suggests that chlorophyllin may help prevent liver, breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers, and may confer protection against the harmful effects of radiation.
* Chlorophyllin appears to be particularly effective against carcinogens found in well done meat.
* In a clinical trial, chlorophyllin produced notable benefits for individuals with leukopenia (low white blood cell count).

Liver Cancer

Chlorophyllin’s anti-cancer effects were documented in a clinical human trial, conducted in Quidong province, China by a team from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.8 Quidong has one of the highest recorded liver cancer rates in the world. Among other factors, crops infected with aflatoxin-producing fungus cause early death from liver cancer. People there live an average of 50 years and many die a painful death from liver cancer—one of the least treatable cancers.

Among the 180 people who took 100 mg of chlorophyllin three times daily in the Johns Hopkins study, urinary levels of DNA-aflatoxin adducts went down 55% compared to untreated people.8 The formation of DNA adducts often leads to DNA mutations and the formation of a cancer cell. A drop in DNA mutation rates such as would be expected from the participants in this study could delay the onset of cancer by as much as twenty years.23
Colon Cancer

The most abundant carcinogen in fried meats, PhIP is a heterocyclic amine compound.24 These form when amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and creatine (a chemical found in the muscle tissue) react at high temperatures. When PhIP is administered to laboratory animals, it speeds the development of aberrant crypt foci, the structural precursors of colon cancer.

Mounting scientific research clearly indicates that chlorophyllin can help protect the colon against this lethal carcinogen. In a recent study, it cut the number of pre-cancerous aberrant crypt foci by 50% and accelerated the elimination of unmetabolized PhIP.12

In 2008, chlorophyllin was shown to inhibit the mutagenic effect of another heterocylic amine found in cooked meat and other foods called IQ (2-hydroxyamino-3-methylimidazo [4,5-f] quinoline). Researchers found that chlorophyllin rapidly degraded IQ’s mutagenic metabolite, potentially interrupting the development of colon cancer at an early stage.25

In another study, mice were given dimethylhydrazine, a carcinogen shown to specifically induce tumors in the colon. When chlorophyllin was administered concurrently, it prevented the formation of tumors by inhibiting the protein complexes that enable mutant DNA to replicate.26
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer

Cell culture studies indicate that chlorophyllin may specifically reduce the damaging interaction of benzopyrene with breast cell DNA.14 It also inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by preventing the activation of extracellular regulatory enzymes.27

This suggests a role for chlorophyllin in protecting against breast cancer, particularly in women who consume well-done meats in large quantities. (The correlation between breast cancer incidence and meat consumption has been well documented.28)

A landmark 2007 study of pre- and postmenopausal women (1,508 cases and 1,558 controls) yielded compelling evidence. Researchers estimated women’s lifetime intakes of grilled, smoked, or barbecued meats using food frequency questionnaires. Postmenopausal women with low fruit and vegetable intake and high intake of these meats were on average 74% more likely to develop breast cancer.29
Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States, claims 34,000 lives each year. Research suggests that dietary factors—PhIP from fried meats in particular—significantly increase pancreatic cancer risk.

A study of over 60,000 participants followed over nine years found that those who ate meat cooked to the point of charring by barbecuing, grilling, or frying also suffered a substantially increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Dr. Kirsten Anderson reported the study results at the 100th annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.30,31

Dr. Anderson analyzed data from the PLCO (Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian) Multi-center Screening Trial, which examined how much meat participants ate and how well done they preferred it. Participants who liked their meat very well done had a 60% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than those who ate no meat or liked their meat less well done.30,31

Not surprisingly, the latest scientific evidence indicates that chlorophyllin may also offer significant protection against this particular form of cancer.

In a recent pre-clinical study, researchers examined the cancer-preventing activities of a variety of natural and synthetic compounds, including chlorophyllin. Rats were either given PhIP alone, or PhIP in combination with 1% chlorophyllin in their drinking water for a year, to determine its protective effects.

Forty percent of animals receiving PhIP alone developed adenocarcinomas. Those that also received chlorophyllin had a significantly reduced incidence of adenocarcinoma.32 These findings suggest that chlorophyllin could protect vulnerable tissues like the pancreas from the dangers of heterocyclic amines.
Protection Against a Common, Potentially Deadly Disease

Leukopenia is a fairly common disorder which can have disastrous consequences if not diagnosed in time. It is characterized by a decrease in the number of white blood cells, or leukocytes, which results in increased risk of infection. There are numerous causes of leukopenia in humans, including: radiation therapy, aplastic anemia, drug side effects, cancer, viral infections, and autoimmune disorders.33

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of chlorophyllin in treating leukopenia, 105 patients with leukopenia caused by various factors were randomized into three groups. One group received chlorophyllin, one received vitamin C, and the last group received the drug leucogen. The 60 patients in the chlorophyllin group took 40 mg three times per day by mouth.9

Researchers then observed the change of the peripheral leukocyte count after treatment and any adverse reactions. In the 60 patients given chlorophyllin, the treatment was markedly effective in 34 patients, effective in 17 patients, and ineffective in nine patients.9

In total, chlorophyllin effectively reduced leukopenia in 85% of participants. Chlorophyllin was significantly more effective than vitamin C, which produced improvements in only 26.7% of recipients, and it was similarly effective to leucogen. No adverse effects were associated with chlorophyll treatment. The researchers concluded that chlorophyllin is safe and efficacious in the treatment of leukopenia caused by various factors.9
Limiting DNA Damage from Radiation Exposure

Humans are exposed to radiation (energy that travels as waves or high-speed particles) from a variety of sources, including sunlight, sound waves, X-rays, nuclear power plants, and cancer treatment.

Excess radiation can produce adverse effects ranging from DNA mutations to immune suppression to radiation sickness. Encouraging evidence suggests that chlorophyllin may confer protection against some of the damaging effects of radiation.

Chlorophyllin has been shown to help protect against the oxidative stress induced by full-body radiation and to help prevent radiation-induced immune suppression.34 Chlorophyllin increases the number of crucial immune system cells in the spleen (T cells, B cells, and macrophages) during recovery from radiation. Chlorophyllin also increased phagocyte activity (the engulfing of invading microbes by white blood cells) in irradiated mice.35

These experimental data on chlorophyllin34,35 suggest it could be applied in human trials to help eliminate the side effects of radiation treatment, especially the immune suppression that is so dangerous after high-dose radiation. This might one day allow for the use of higher, more effective doses of radiation to kill cancers, and could help protect surrounding non-cancerous tissues from the collateral damage caused by radiation therapy. Ideally, the overall goal would be to lower the adverse effects of radiation from all causes and accelerate cancer cell apoptosis (programmed cell death), which chlorophyllin has accomplished in some cancer cell lines.27,36

Summary

Failure to protect our genes from dangerous mutations that accumulate over a lifetime can limit our longevity and cause fatal diseases. Chlorophyllin has been shown to protect our genes from a large array of cancer and other disease-causing chemicals that are known to react with our DNA.

Chlorophyllin protects genes in at least six known ways:

* It neutralizes mutagenic compounds that enter the body through food and air, such as PhIP.
* It blocks phase I liver enzymes that transform carcinogens into their active, more toxic metabolites.
* It raises beneficial phase II liver enzymes that facilitate the excretion of carcinogenic compounds.
* It bonds directly to certain carcinogens in the digestive tract, allowing the carcinogen to be excreted harmlessly.
* It deactivates genes that participate in cancer cell proliferation and survival.
* It protects against harmful effects caused by ionizing radiation.

Exposure to cancer-causing agents and mutagens in our environment is a largely unavoidable consequence of living in a post-industrial society. Even if one leads a healthy lifestyle, it may not be enough to combat the onslaught of toxic pollution and contamination we are exposed to daily. Supplementation with antimutagenic agents such as chlorophyllin, resveratrol, and other plant extracts is a sensible way to protect our health, as part of a daily regimen.

Author: By John Colman

If you have any questions on the scientific content of this article, please call a Life Extension® health advisor at 1-866-864-3027.

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Source: http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2009/