Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Book Summary: Genius Foods

 

Max Lugavere & Paul Grewal, MD
Summary by Mounir Aswad,
Max Lugavere wrote the book after his mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer. He researched and read thousands of papers on the subject, meet with many Doctors and Nutrition experts. What distinguishes his work is the listing of the top 10, the insertion of carb day in one's week for “Metabolic flexibility,” and the considerable importance of fasting. 
Note regarding genes: contrary to the belief that neurogenesis happens only during youth, we create neurons during all of our lifetimes. Our choices can't change our genetics but can change chemicals on top of our DNA Called epigenome, thus improving or altering the result.
P.S, regarding my summary, I listed the top 10 first then categorized similar points together.
This summary is written using Microsoft Word 365 and utilizes Heading Categorization, however, on the internet it losses this great functionality. If you are reading this on the web and would like to get the original file, email me: maswad@gmail.com. To navigate in MS word, click view and check Navigation Pane. Now, you should see the categories on the left side. Click the arrow to explain or collapse, or right to choose collapse or expand all.


The Top 10 list

1.      Olive Oil, Monounsaturated fat

·       Degrades the plaque (called amyloid) that causes brain diseases by altering the enzyme control its production.
·       Oleocanthal in olive oil helps the body to clear itself of plaque and good for autophagy
·       Improves LDL quality (See Cholesterol below)
·       Reduces liver fat (See Cholesterol below)
·       Protects brain synopsis (the point where Neurons meet) from oxidative stress
·       Improves gut membrane (see autoimmune diseases) in cases such as leaky guts
·       Improves absorption of Carotenoids such as Lutein and Zeaxanthin.
·       How to choose: should be spicy when swallowed, due to a compound called Oleocanthal which is a type of phenol that stimulates the body in its repair mechanisms.
ØPhenols are linked together in a compound called polyphenols which is an excellent anti-inflammatory

2.      Avocado

·       Rich in Fiber, Carotenoids, Potassium, Vitamin E and Magnesium.
ØPotassium works with sodium to regulate blood pressure

3.      Wild Blueberries

·       Rich in Flavonoid (especially anthocyanins found to cross the blood-brain barriers to enhance brain functions),
·       Flavonoid is class of Polyphenol (similar to oleocanthal in olive oil which is a type of phenol)
·       High in Antioxidants.

4.      Dark Chocolate

·       Rich in Magnesium.
·       Rich in Flavonoids (See Blueberries)
·       Make sure it is not processed with Alkali (Dutch processing)

5.      Eggs

·       On a recent Study three eggs, a day reduced insulin resistant, raised HDL and increased the size of LDL.
·       In addition to vitamins they provide acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter, as well as lecithin, which helps maintain cell membranes, transmit nerve impulses, process fat, and cholesterol, and perform other tasks.
·       Rich in Choline which is essential for brain development in the fetus.
·       Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin
·       Best in order: Pasture, Omega3, Free range, Conventional.

6.      Grass-Fed Beef & Organ meats

·       Rich in Iron. Zinc B12 packaged in an easily digestible format.
·       Low consumption may lead to cognitive symptoms such as depression.
·       Choose 100% Grass-Fed and Finished (Maxl.ug/gfresources).
·       Cook with garlic and onion to reduce neurotoxic compounds.
·       Pair with spinach, broccoli, and kale to naturalize oxidative products in the gut.
·       Organ meats are rich in Collagen and Glycine which are essential for mood and sleep.

7.      Dark leafy greens

·       Rich in Folate important in the methylation cycle.
·       Rich in Magnesium, 300 enzymes relies on magnesium.
·       Rich in Fiber that feeds microbiome.

8.      Broccoli

·       Rich in Sulforaphane which is a modulator that activates genetic pathway called NRF2 which in turns creates chemicals to wipe oxidative stress (polyphenol does that to a lesser degree)
·       Especially young Broccoli sprouts concerning Sulforaphane, but adults still richer in other nutrients
·       Great to reduce body fats.
·       Consume raw and cooked (add mustard powder when cooking).

9.      Wild (Sockeye) Salmon

·       Rich in astaxanthin
o   Astaxanthin as Antioxidant
Ø  Good for cognitive function; neurotransmitters; eyes and reduces inflammation.
Ø  6000 times that of vitamin C.
Ø  800 times that of CoQ10.
Ø  550 times that of vitamin E.
Ø  200 times that of polyphenols.
Ø  150 times that of anthocyanins.
Ø  75 times that of alpha lipoic acid.
o   Other fatty fish
Ø  Sardine
Ø  Herring
Ø  Mackerel
Ø  Anchovies

10.  Almonds

·       Prebiotics found in the skin.
·       Rich in polyphenol
o   High-polyphenol foods
Ø  Various herbs and spices contain polyphenols, including star anise, peppermint, and cinnamon. Plant-based foods such as vegetables and fruits tend to be high in polyphenols.
o   Known to be antioxidants.
o   Impacts genes and gene expression.
o   Influence gut bacteria.
·       Rich in Vitamin E
·       Best use dry Roasted or raw.

Fasting

·       In 12 hours: body uses its first source of backup in the liver from stored sugar called glycogen (~100 gr).
·       Once the liver runs out of sugar, it takes worn-out protein, disassemble them into amino acids and burn them off.
·       Autophagy (Housecleaning) is upscaled.
ØAutophagy is a normal physiological process in the body that deals with the destruction of cells in the body. It maintains homeostasis or normal functioning by protein degradation and turnover the destroyed cell organelles for new cell formation. During cellular stress, the process of Autophagy is upscaled and increased.
·       Growth Hormone: to prevent the liver from going after muscles, Growth Hormone is elevated.
·       Fasting tunes Synaptic activities by giving them rest, the number of neurotransmitters decrease which cleans up the synaptic gap and minimizes oxidative stress.
·       Leptin is decreases but its sensitivity increases in the hypothalamus.
·       Stages for optimal production of ketones during fasting:
Ø 4-12 Hours: Depletion of last consumed carbs.
Ø 12-19 Hours: Depletion of glycogen from the liver.
Ø 20-36 Hours: delays amino acids break down to preserve muscles.
Ø 20 to 72 Hours: break down of amino acids (Glycogenesis), Glycogenesis is the process of Glycogen synthesis, in which glucose molecules are added to chains of glycogen for storage.
Ø Not eating over 20 hours increases Norepinephrine, a vital brain neurotransmitter.
Ø 42 to 72 hours: Level of Ketones increases.
Ø 1 week: upregulating Ketone brain enzymes in the brain.
·       Fasting improves insulin sensitivity
·       Improves Growth Hormone.
·       Increases BDNF and Neuroplasticity.
·       Reduces inflammation and reaction to oxidative stress
·       Enhanced Synoptics protection

Ketones and Keto Diet

o   Ketones can also act as a switch and boost BDNF, brain Ultimate Auto protective protein.
o   Running on fat increases blood flow to the brain
o   When adipose tissue fats under our skin get broken down fatty acids, get released into the bloodstream, and the liver converts them into Ketone bodies which supply the brain with 60 % requirement.
o   Ketones are a cleaner-burning energy source.
o   Ketones increase the availability of Glutathione which is the body’s best defense for free radicals.
o   In the presence of Ketone, the body ignites Pathways that can boost BDNF which facilitate healthy mood, learning, and plasticity.
o   Ketones increase blood flow.
o   When insulin is elevated, Ketone production stops.
o   Creatine found in red meat and fish enhance Ketone levels and Increases muscle performance.
o   Consume extra salt on the ketogenic diet as salt help delivers vitamin C to the brain.
o   Ketogenic improves mitochondria, a powerhouse of cells.
o   To help the body in the first stages of fat adaptation add MCT oil from coconut oil, palm oil, goat milk, and breast milk.
o   Stages for optimal production of ketones during fasting:
Ø  4-12 Hours: Depletion of last consumed carbs.
Ø  12-19 Hours: Depletion of glycogen from the liver.
Ø  20-36 Hours: delays amino acids break down to preserve muscles.
Ø  20 to 72 Hours: break down of amino acids (Glycogenesis)
Ø  Glycogenesis is the process of Glycogen synthesis, in which glucose molecules are added to chains of glycogen for storage.
Ø  42 to 72 hours: Level of Ketones increases further.
Ø  1 week: upregulating Ketone brain enzymes in the brain increases.

Neurotransmitters

o   Neurons release neurotransmitters.
o   Neurotransmitters then move to the presynaptic cell which is the gap between the cells
Ø  Then they proceed to meet the receptors cells on the receiving side.
Ø  Enzymes degrade the leftover neurotransmitter, or they are taken by the presynaptic cells.
o   Several drugs affect transmission such as depression medications.
o   How to maximize this process
Ø  Exercises.
Ø  Limit MSG from food, artificially added flavors.
Ø  Increase consumption of eggs, sea seafood, poultry, beef, liver and Shrimps, Scallops, Beats, Chicken, and fish Brussel sprouts broccoli and spinach.
o   Glutamate & GABA transmitters
Ø  Glutamate Gaba acts as Yen (inhibitor) of the brain
Ø  Glutamate which acts as Yang (excitatory).
Ø  Both need to be in balance, degradation of the Gaba causes varieties of sickness such as Alzheimer's or ALS.
Ø  Anti-depression drugs work to enhance Gaba and inhibit glutamate.
Ø  Caffeine increases Glutamate activity and inhibits Gaba.
Ø  There is a relation between our gut microbiome and the wellness of these systems.
Ø  Exercise is beneficial for both, as well as yoga, meditation, and cold bath.
Ø  Avoid MSG salt in Chinese cooking
Ø  Avoid Aspartame which transforms into glutamate precursor in the body,
o   Acetylcholine, important neuron for learning
Ø  Example of drugs that affects Acetylcholine neurons:
Ø  Night time cold medicine.
Ø  Muscle relaxant (Also they play a role in increasing Alzheimer's)
Ø  Sleep enhancers BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor)
Ø  Muscle relaxant (Also play a negative role in Alzheimer's)
o   Serotonin (The mood enhancing transmitter)
Ø  Affected by vitamin D and its precursor tryptophan (essential amino acid).
Ø  Most Serotonin supply comes from the gut.
Ø  Drugs that boost Serotonin overwhelms the recycling cycle.
Ø  Amino acids, when provided separately, block tryptophan to the brain (or competes with tryptophan) which causes aggression, impaired memory, impaired long-term planning, depression, violent tendencies, and others.
Ø  One-way exercise proof the mood is by sucking up Amino Acids and allowing tryptophan to the brain.
Ø  How to improve Serotonin:
Ø  Daily Sun Light
Ø  DPA, DHA
o   Dopamine (the rewards and reinforcements transmitter
Ø  Made in the brain by tyrosine
o   Norepinephrine, a Chemical that functions as Hormone or Neurotransmitter
Ø  is an essential element in the health of the nervous system.
Ø  is a Catecholamine, a hormone that functions as a neurotransmitter in the sympathetic nervous system
Ø  Norepinephrine directly stimulates adrenergic receptors.
Ø  Not eating for 20 hours increases Norepinephrine.
Ø  Exercises. Sauna and Coldwater immersion.
o   BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, the ultimate Brain Builder)
Ø  A protein that is essential brain health
Ø  BDNF Promotes the creation of new neurons and bodyguard to the existing brain cells.
Ø  Sleep enhancers BDNF
Ø  Supported by Omega 3 and DHA
Ø  Low level responded to Alzheimer, Parkinson's and even depression.
Ø  BDNF Increases by Omega 3 and Exercises.
Ø  Ketones can also act as a switch and boost BDNF, brain Ultimate Auto protective protein
o   Overall recommendations to protect your neurotransmitters
Ø  Protect your synopsis (the point where Neurons meet) from oxidative stress by
Ø  DHA fat from fish.
Ø  Olive Oil
Ø  Limit Polyunsaturated fats
Ø  Increase fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A found in avocado, Almonds, and Grass Fed Beef.
Ø  Increase Carotenoid like Zeaxanthin and lutein found in pistachios, Kale, Avocado, Astaxanthin in krill oil
Ø  Explore new activities
Ø  Avoid toxic chemicals
Ø  Eat organic
Ø  Fasting tunes Synaptic activities by giving them rest, the number of neurotransmitters decrease which cleans up the synaptic gap and minimizes oxidative stress.
Ø  Avoid excessive stimulation such as
Ø  instrumental music when learning
Ø  Turn volume down
Ø  Turn down the brightness on screens
Ø  Warm color bulbs
Ø  Eliminate overhead lightening
Ø  Meditate
Ø  Ensure optimum Vit D

Hormones

·       Picture of the brain
o  
o  
·       Ghrelin, the hunger hormone
o   Affected by sleep. On average sleep deprivation causes you to eat extra ~ 400 Cals,
o   Affected by sleep.
·       Leptin, the metabolic throttle hormone
o   Satiety hormone
o   Circulated by fat cells.
o   Low Leptin increases hunger and decreases thyroid activity.
o   When fasting or low carb, leptin is decreases but its sensitivity increases in the hypothalamus
o   Important for cognitive, so shouldn’t remain on low calories for extended period of time or inadequate sleep (Fasting is an exception).
·       Growth Hormone
o   Repairs and preserve hormone
o   Secreted by the Pituitary glands
o   Affects cognitive functions
o   To improve:
Ø  Intermittent fasting 14 to 16 hrs. 16 to 18 hrs.
Ø  Sauna 2 20 min separated by 30 minutes cooling @80 degrees or
Ø  15min at 100 degrees
·       Cortisol
o   Peaks on weakening.
o   Eating carbs at breakfast causes insulin secretion which diminishes cortisol effect.
o   Adrenal: Chronic stress activates the primitive function of the brain associated with fears. This activates the adrenal which secretes adrenal and adrenaline.
·       HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), stress response
o   Starts in the hypothalamus and links to the body hormone system via pituitary glands which makes the adrenal gland which in turn surges the cortisol and adrenaline.
·       Prolactin hormone myelin promotes neurogenesis in maternal and fetal brains.

Microbiome

·       A microbiome is "the ecological community of commensal, symbiotic, and pathogenic microorganisms that share our body space."
·       Averages ~ 30 trillion or about 2 pounds in the body.
·       Vagus Nerve has two bunches of sensory nerve cell bodies connecting the brainstem to the body.
o   One of Vagus Nerve job is a critical route for communication between gut microbe and the central nervous system (CNS).
·       Stomach too acidic for bacteria to reside
·       Colon is the best place for bacteria to live in ~100 million bacteria per gram. These Bacteria consume fiber and prebiotics.
o   Source of Prebiotics: Berries, leak, jicama, chicory, Avocado, spinach, arugula, garlic, onion, coffee, chicory roots, unrepented banana, raw nuts, fennel, okra, bell peppers, broccoli, radishes, dark chocolate, sprouts
o   Plant fiber is the best source of fiber.
·       Butyrate or butanoate is the traditional name for the conjugate base of butyric acid.
o   Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), including butyrate, are produced by beneficial colonic bacteria (probiotics) that feed on or ferment prebiotics,
o   This prebiotics are plant products that contain adequate amounts of dietary fiber.
o   Butyrate promotes BDNF which promotes neuroplasticity, slows brain degeneration and reduces inflammation.
·       Colon Function forms the blockade against bacteria and pathogens, allows the absorption of fluids that are not absorbed by the small intestine.
·       Omega-6 and Omega-3 compete to get into the membrane. A diet rich in omega-6 is what causes the membrane to be rigid
·       What increases coronary disease of the gut barriers:
o   Alcohol.
o   Fructose or agave.
o   Fat with sugar
o   Stress.
o   Overtraining.
o   Processed food additives
o   Emulsifiers.
Ø  Polysorbate 80,
Ø  Carboxy.
o   Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Ø  Attack mitochondria and reduce its ability to produce energy.
Ø  Use Curcumin and EPA instead
o   Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ø  Reduce glutathione.
Ø  Glutathione is one of the body's most important and potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that reduce oxidative stress by combating free radicals in the body.
Ø  Use curcumin.
o   Antibiotics

Fats

1.      Omega Oils & Fatty Acids

o   Omega Oils are Polyunsaturated fatty acids.
o   Omega 3 almost always accompany Fatty acids when fish eat alga and found in grass-fed butter.
o   Fatty Acids neutralize oxidative stress caused by polyunsaturated fats.
o   Fatty Acids contain structure that knocks off free radicals,
o   Omega 3, ALA/EPA and DHA
Ø  Most recommended.
Ø  Wild salmon (low Mercury).
Ø  Sardine (low Mercury).
Ø  Pastured eggs.
Ø  Grass-fed beef.
Ø  ALA from seeds are extra additions
Ø  DHA and EPA are the biologically active forms of the Omega 3 fatty acid
Ø  Epa an-inflammatory
Ø  DHA is essential for brain health
Ø  ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID (Essential part) in plant food (Seeds, flax, chia, walnut) needs to be converted to EPA, DHA to be absorbed.
Ø  ALA is a precursor to EPA and DHA, but the conversion rate in our bodies is very low.
Ø  The enzymes that convert ALA to EPA, DHA also converts linoleic acid (Omega 6 from polyunsaturated) to pro-inflammatory form called "Arachidonic Acid."
o   Omega 6 (Gamma-linolenic acid)
Ø  A form of polyunsaturated fat (Linoleic Linoleic acid).
Ø  Used sometimes to treat nerve damage and Diabetes.
Ø  We consume in access from grains and seed oils.
o   Relation to Cell Membranes:
Ø  Cell membranes are composed of a lipid bilayer containing proteins that span the bilayer and interact with the lipids on either side of the two leaflets.
Ø  Cell membrane must be fluid enough to allow receptors to come up to the surface to absorb the messages from the neurotransmitters.
Ø  Omega-6 and Omega-3 compete to get into the membrane. A diet rich in omega-6 is what causes the membrane to be rigid

2.      Saturated Fats:

o   Most chemically stable
o   Can magnify the dietary effect of a high carb diet.
Ø  One meal of fat and carb can induce a temporary state of insulin resistant which increases inflammation and fat storage.
o   A blood level of saturated fats linked to dementia, but what causes it?
Ø  Steric and Polymeric acid: gets elevated on a high carb diet.
Ø  The reason is most fats get generated by the liver in response to carbohydrates (a process called lipogenesis).
o   People with high carb and sugar tends to have small hippocampus (Processes memory).

3.      Trans Fats:

o   Naturally found trans fats (CLA) found in milk and meat of the grass-fed animals.
o   Artificial human-made fats are not saturated, but polyunsaturated bumped with hydrogen.
o   Highly inflammatory, promote insulin resistant and heart disease.
o   They integrate into the neural membrane and stiffen them.

Cholesterol

o   LDL
Ø  After producing Cholesterol, Cholesterol gets shoveled in the body by the LDL.
Ø  Approximately 50 percent of the weight of an LDL particle is cholesterol, and 25 percent is protein
Ø  Tests recommended:
Ø  NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance): used to determine LDL Particle size, LDL-P (Number of LDL Particles) & LDL-C (Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol).
Ø  LDL-C is a surrogate measure that only provides an estimate of LDL levels. Studies indicate that the risk for atherosclerosis is more related to the number of LDL particles (LDL-P) than the total amount of cholesterol within these particles.
Ø  Recycling LDL
Ø  Oxidation factor: LDL can have issues with its intended recycle mechanism due to oxidation or bonding to sugar molecules and ends up settled in arteries walls.
Ø  Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene that predicts  Alzheimer is found to lower the ability of the liver to recycle LDL,
Ø  When not appropriately recycled, LDL enters the blood, and inflammation occurs with messengers called Cytokine to warn the system about inflammation, causing the immune cells to stick making “foam cells” marking the beginning of what becomes plaque.
Ø  LDL Oxidation causes Orthoclastic in arteries (not veins) which carries oxygenated blood in a high-pressure environment.
Ø  To enhance qualities of the LDL,
Ø  Eat a lot of fiber such as dark green leafy vegetables. Includes onion, shallots
Ø  Probiotic foods such as kimchi and kombucha
Ø  lots of polyphenols such as extra virgin olive oils chocolate and berries which protect the stomach barrier.
o   HDL
Ø  Beneficial acting as clean-up trucks picking up excess cholesterol and delivering it to the liver
Ø  Low carb diet and high fiber improve HDL.
o   Statin.
Ø  Do little to reduce small LDL.
Ø  Before taking, run NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) Lipoprofile. A cholesterol test which provides more information than a standard Lipid Panel. This test includes measurements for total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, Insulin Markers, Lipoprotein Particle Number and Size, and Lipoprotein Subfractions.
Ø  Lowers lean production of cholesterol.
Ø  Lowers Q10 which is essential for brain metabolism

Mitochondria

·       Rod-Shaped organelles (specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function) that can be considered the power generators of the cell, converting oxygen and nutrients into Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).
o   ATP is the chemical energy "currency" of the cell that powers the cell's metabolic activities.
o   ATP is an adenine nucleotide bound to three phosphates. When the cell needs energy, it breaks this bond to form adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and a free phosphate molecule.
·       Responsible for mental fatigue, hunger, brain fog, forgetfulness, 1/4 of oxygen is used to fuel brain activities.
·       Glucose provides brain energy for the brain. From this sugar, mitochondria produces energy from this cellular level via aerobic metabolism. However, a by-product of glucose is free radicals or ROS (reactive oxygen species).
·       ATP is the energy currency of the cell used during muscle contractions.
·       Creatine helps to create more ATP during exercise. Supplementing with creatine may help Alzheimer's patients but check with Dr on Kidneys’ health.

Sugar, Carbs, Glucose, and Insulin

·       Causes dopamine release.
·       Sugar reduces neuroplasticity bite into reaction with genes in the brain.
·       Post workout is the safest time to eat carbs, as muscles pull sugar from the blood

Fructose

o   Promotes inflammation and insulin resistance
o   Does not induce satiety, instead will make you hungrier.
o   Fructose bypasses the bloodstream directly to the liver.
o   Once in the liver, it causes lipogenesis (fat creation).
o   After Fructose fills your liver with fat, it spills into your bloodstream as triglycerides.
o   This operation temporarily adjusts the glucose level but eventually causes glucose intolerance.
o   All this contributes to NAFLD (liver diseases)

Glucose & Glycation

o   Occurs when glucose molecule binds to nearby protein or surface of the cell causing damage.
Ø  Total glycemic load takes into account total serving size which is better than just glycemic index.
Ø  Glycation = glucose exposure * time.
Ø  Eyes are sensitive to glycation such as cataract.
o   Advanced Glycation End Products (AGE):
Ø  Found in brain diseases, predicts brain volume level.
Ø  Measure A1C (Amount of Sugar stuck to blood cells)
Ø  Blood cells circulate every four months collecting sugar molecules before they get recycled to the spleen.
Ø  Fructosamine test:
Ø  Measure compound that results from Glycation every 2 to 3 weeks.
Ø  AGE can come from an environment like cigarettes smoking, high-temperature cooking, high carbs, and vegetarianism.
o   Antioxidants (In greens) like Polyphenol and fiber can neutralize AGEs.
Ø  i.e., add veggies to roasted chicken

Sugar & Grains

o   Starch in grains in spike blood sugars, sugar is shuffled to the cells via insulin which activates receptors on the surface of the cell membrane.

Insulin Sensitivity  

o   Insulin sensitivity may be existence even before diagnosis with type 2 impairing memory.
o   Regular person pumps of 25 units of insulin per day to control blood sugar, when T2 100 to 125 units.
o   Insulin is the body chief anabolic hormone creating a stage for growth,
o   When insulin is elevated, a process called Lipolysis stops (the breakdown of lipids involving hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids), thus body fats increases.
o   Insulin-Degrading Enzyme (IDE) has another job to degrade amyloid beta. To help with the cleanup that happens at night when you sleep stop eating 2 to 3 hours before bed.
o   To know precisely how much insulin you need to keep sugar use Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA)     
Ø  Calculated by Insulin (uIU/mL (mU/L) * Glucose ( mg/dL) / 405
Ø  Should be < 1.
o   Adding fat to carbs reduce insulin spike but increase insulin release.
o   Sleep deprivation can cause you to be insulin sensitive in one day.
o   Glycemic index is how much sugar is released when eating specific food
o   insulin AUC is the total insulin released after eating particular food, measured by an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).             

Oxidation

o   When oxygen reacts with specific molecules to create new damaged molecule which has extra super reactive extra electron called free radical.
o   This extra electron reacts with another nearby molecule transforming it into second free radical.
o   They can damage lipid, protein, DNA, hormones, enzymes and causes inflammation until scavenger molecules quench them.
o   Healthy body create enough of scavenger molecules to combat the free radicals
o   The Brain accounts for 20 to 25% of oxygen metabolism of the body, constructed by polyunsaturated fats and squeezed into a small container is a logical area for oxidative stress.
o   Found in Alzheimer's brains
o   Overheating vegetable Orioles also produced a dangerous compound called aldehyde, Aldehyde is a by-product of fat oxidation
Ø  Polyunsaturated fats found in nature covered with own fats unlike when we extract them from seeds and vegetable oils.
Ø  Avoid the following oils, canola, corn, soy, vegetable, safflower, cotton seeds,
Sunflower, grape seed, and rice.

*** Diseases ***


Alzheimer

o   insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) is a protein that detects early Alzheimer's.
o   Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene that predicts Alzheimer’s  found to lower the ability of the liver to recycle LDL,
o   Statin doubles your risks of type 2 diabetes which double risk for Alzheimer (see the side effect of Statin below).
o   Supplementing with creatine may help Alzheimer's patients but check with Dr on Kidneys’ health.
o   Glutamate Gaba acts as yen (inhibitor) of the brain
o   Glutamate which acts as yang (excitatory).
o   Both need to be in balance, degradation of the Gaba causes varieties of sickness such as Alzheimer's or ALS.
Ø  Anti-depression drugs work to enhance Gaba and inhibit glutamate.
Ø  Caffeine increases Glutamate activity and inhibits Gaba.
Ø  There is a relation between our gut microbiome and the wellness of these systems.
Ø  Exercise is beneficial for both, as well as yoga, meditation, and cold bath.
Ø  Avoid MSG salt in Chinese cooking and aspartame which transforms into glutamate precursor in the body,
o   Acetylcholine neuron for learning
Ø  Example of drugs that affects Acetylcholine neurons:
Ø  Night time cold medicine.
Ø  Muscle relaxant (Also they play a role in increasing Alzheimer's)
o   BDNF Gene and Protein
Ø  The BDNF gene provides instructions for making a protein found in the brain and spinal cord called brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Ø  BDNF Promotes the creation of new neurons and bodyguard to the existing brain cells.
Ø  Sleep enhancers BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, the ultimate Brain Builder)
Ø  Supported by Omega 3 and DHA
Ø  Low level responded to an Alzheimer Parkinson's and even depression.
Ø  BDNF Increases by Omega 3 and Exercises.
Ø  Ketones can also act as a switch and boost BDNF, brain Ultimate Auto protective protein
o   Lookup benefits of maximizing Neurotransmitters.
o   Statin doubles the risks of type 2 diabetes which the double risk for Alzheimer

Autoimmune Diseases and Leaky Guts

o   LPS, known as bacterial endotoxin usually kept in the stomach.
o   LPS when released into the bloodstream the body send LDL carriers to bind to the LPS docking protein and neutralize it.
o   Leaky gut increases LPL through the roof, and this affects the liver ability to cycle the LPS properly.
o   Autoimmune Diseases:
Ø  Autoimmune Diseases are diseases where the body attacks its own.
Ø  Distinguished by heightens inflammation.
Ø  Example of Autoimmune system is gluten sensitivity, Gliadin in gluten looks a lot like microbe in our immune system, where the immune system attacks both.
Ø  Gluten is a protein that is different from the normal protein we eat from chicken.
Ø  When you eat food containing gluten, the digestive enzymes that usually break down proteins into their amino acids building blocks produce short strings of amino acids, called peptides, instead.
Ø  For people with celiac disease, gluten peptides disrupt the lining of the small intestine and trigger an immune response that attracts inflammatory cells and increases the release of inflammatory chemicals. This, in turn, causes permeable guts.
Ø  Zonulin is the only human protein discovered to date that is known to regulate intestinal permeability. The presence of Zonulin may indicate permeability.
Ø  Some of the reasons are overuse of antibiotics and antibacterial, fiber inadequacy and birthing practices.
o   What helps:
Ø  Eat a lot of fiber such as dark green leafy vegetables. Includes onion, shallots and Probiotic foods such as kimchi and kombucha and a lot of polyphenols such extra virgin olive oils chocolate and berries which protect the stomach barrier.
Ø  Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA) increase development of the cells in the colon which suppress the response of autoimmune cells.
Ø  Omega-6 and Omega-3 compete to get into the membrane. A diet rich in omega-6 is what causes the membrane to be rigid
Ø  Add Probiotics like kimchi kombucha and kefir.
Ø  Add Corsican found in polyphenols such as onions blueberries and tea.
Ø  Add l-glutamine and fiber.
Ø  Fiber found in grains is insoluble fiber that is not digested by the guts, unlike prebiotic fiber.
Ø  Hike in nature.
Ø  Use less soap for the shower.
Ø  Minimize the use of antibacterial soaps.
Ø  Eat only organic food.
Ø  Adopt a pet especially dogs to maximize the gut microbiome diversities
o   What increases coronary disease of the gut barriers:
Ø  Alcohol.
Ø  Fructose. Or agave.
Ø  Fat with sugar
Ø  Stress.
Ø  Overtraining.
Ø  Processed food additives
Ø  Emulsifiers.

*** Other ***

Primary opponents to healthy brains

·       Inflammation
·       Nutrient deficiencies
·       Toxic Exposures
·       Chronic stress
·       Physical stagnation
·       Sleep loss

Food to avoid (designed to screw up your Brain)

o   Biscuit, bagel, cereals, milk chocolate, cookies, energy bars, crackers, Donuts, muffins, pasta pastries, granola, pizza, pretzel, waffles, pancakes, milkshakes, frozen yogurt, ice cream gravy, jam jellies, fries, chips, granola.

Sleep

·       Increases creativity, willpower, regulate appetite, solidify memory, sleep loss toxic to mitochondria.
·       The Glymphatic system pushes cerebral fluids into the brain while we sleep.
o   The lymphatic system is responsible for:
Ø  The removal of interstitial fluid from tissues.
Ø  It absorbs and transports fatty acids and fats as chyle from the digestive system. It carries white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones.
·       Ghrelin, the hunger hormone is affected by sleep.
·       On average, sleep deprivation causes about extra 400 Cals the next day.
·       How to improve sleep:
o   Don't eat before sleep
o   Fish oil
o   Eat larger fewer quantity of meals to improve Ghrelin sensitivity

Keep your body fat low

o   Fat around the organs has more receptors than other fats in the body which explains why people have midsection stubborn fat.
Ø  To keep that from happening don't eat carbs when stressed
Ø  Keep stress to a minimum,
Ø  Meditate don't Medicate:
Ø  Be in nature
Ø  Exercise
Ø  Massage
Ø  Deep breathing

Carotenoid:

o   Lutein and zeaxanthin.
o   Found in Eggs, Kale, spinach, Pistachoes, and avocado.
o   Absorbed better with fats such as olive oil, eggs, avocado in the salad.

Eye Health

o   Photoreceptors of the eye utilize energy from fat.
o   AMD can be thought of as a form of diabetes for the eye.
o   Ketones increase the availability of Glutathione which is the body’s best defense for free radicals.

Plants Defense System and its benefits

·       Herbicides curb plants self-mechanism
·       Oleocanthal from Olive oil
o   Oleocanthal is a phenylethanoid or a type of natural phenolic compound found in extra-virgin olive oil
o   Oleocanthal is a tyrosol ester, and its chemical structure is related to oleuropein, also located in olive oil.
o   Oleocanthal helps the body to clear itself of plaque and good for autophagy.
Ø  Autophagy is a normal physiological process in the body that deals with the destruction of cells in the body. It maintains homeostasis or normal functioning by protein degradation and turnover of the destroyed cell organelles for new cell formation.
·       Resveratrol from
o   Red wine, Grapes & Pistachios
o   Improves glucose brain metabolism and cognitive functions
·       Allicin
o   Found in garlic, is a natural sulfur compound that protects garlic from soil parasites and fungi.
o   Effectively disables microbes that cause disease in humans.
o   Allicin blocks two groups of enzymes that empower infectious microbes to invade and survive in host tissue
o   Allicin may prove to be a broad-spectrum antimicrobial drug.
Ø  Microbes are unlikely to develop resistance to Allicin to do so they would alter their major enzymes, which would lead to their destruction.
Ø  It loses its beneficial properties within hours after the garlic clove is crushed and the compound begins reacting with other substances.
·       Curcumin
o   From turmeric.
o   Anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-angiogenic, anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic.
o   lessened inflammatory responses
·       Flavonoids (bioflavonoids)
o   Apple skin, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, dark chocolate, onion, Strawberries.
o   Powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits
o   Effective against cancer, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
o   Lead the body to create glutathione
Ø  Glutathione is one of the body's most important and potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that reduce oxidative stress by combating free radicals in the body. While most antioxidants are found in the foods you eat,  your body produces glutathione.
Ø  Found in found in sulfur foods like garlic onion leeks eggs nuts spinach
·       Sulforaphane
o   Highest in Broccoli
o   A modulator that activates genetic pathway called NRF2 which in turns creates chemicals to wipe oxidative stress (polyphenol does that to a lesser degree)
Ø  Note; exceeding amount of cruciferous vegetables may inhibit iodine going to the thyroid so be moderate.

Take care of your liver

o   To reduce liver fat:
Ø  Consume more olive oil (or avocado oil and macadamia)
Ø  Cut down on carbs and sugar.
o   Increase veggies.
o   Intermittent fasting to increase the ability to recycle (LDL)
o   Integrate High/Low carb post work out 1 to 2 a week. Insulin (after it is restored) can be used to improve LDL recycling.
o   Increase consumption of high potassium such as avocado, spinach, and salmon.
o   Consume Nitrate vegetable (Arugula is the most of all vegetables) as this increases blood flow to the brain, second best is beets, spinach, butter leaf lettuce, beet greens, broccoli, and swiss chard.

Exercise

·       Aerobics (slow or fast) is excellent for BDNF, increases the size of the hypothalamus (links nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland)
o   Cortisol can damage the hippocampus (Long-term memory).
·       Exercise normalizes brain glucose metabolism, increases cortex (memory stored after the hippocampus creates it).
·       Anaerobic is high short intensity like sprinting, includes weights lifting.
·       When you hit the lactic threshold, you empty stored carbs in muscles, turning your body to an energy sponge allowing you to have carbs after the workout.
·       Free Radicals:
o   Parts of the benefits of exercise is the introduction of free radicals; when we take Vitamin C before activities, performance will be affected as this blocks natural antioxidants coverage.
o   Mitochondria feel the pressure to raise free radicals and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Ø  Enzyme AMPK (AMP-activated protein) increase fat burning, clear and recycle old mitochondria, keeping and creating new ones to improve fitness,
o   Improve insulin resistant and enhances browning in fatty tissues.
o   Brain Boosts BDNF (The BDNF gene provides instructions for making a protein found in the brain and spinal cord called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This protein promotes the survival of nerve cells.
Ø  BDNF improves by cold exposures (Cold bath) and Hot (Sauna) exposure.
Ø  Cold exposure improves insulin sensitivity.

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