Pantothenic Acid/Vitamin B5

As a follower of Depke Wellness, you understand the importance of balanced adrenal function. Vitamin B5 is a major precursor to hormone production in the adrenals as well as supporting cellular energy production, cardiovascular health, and synthesis of vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, and steroid hormones.

Pantothenic acid is a precursor of coenzyme A (CoA), an important cofactor and acyl group carrier in cells. One of the main functions for CoA is the formation of acetyl-CoA, vital for cellular respiration and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids through the Krebs cycle. Distribution studies indicate that tissues with the highest retention of pantothenic acid are the kidneys, pituitary gland, heart, muscle, liver and adrenal glands. Additionally, pantothenic acid is required for the synthesis of fatty acids and membrane phospholipids, the amino acids leucine, arginine and methionine, and isoprenoid derivatives, including steroid hormones, vitamin A and vitamin D.

Order Now

Pantothenic Acid
Supplement Facts

each capsule contains:
pantothenic acid 500 mg.
(calcium pantothenate) (B5)
vitamin C 10 mg.
(as ascorbyl palmitate)
(hypo-allergenic plant fiber added to complete capsule volume requirement)

1 capsule per day, with a meal.

Order Now

Vitamin D3 Liquid

Support for bone, breast, prostate, cardiovascular, colon and immune health in an easy to use liquid form

Vitamin D promotes intestinal calcium and phosphorous absorption and reduces urinary calcium loss, essential mechanisms for maintaining proper calcium levels in the body and for healthy bone composition. Vitamin D supports cardiovascular function in some individuals, which may be attributed to its effect on calcium metabolism or possibly by helping to maintain healthy plasma renin function. A role for vitamin D in supporting colon health by promoting healthy cellular function has also been suggested. Furthermore, vitamin D is believed to provide general cellular support potential, including for breast and prostate tissue, in part by helping to maintain healthy angiogenesis balance, supporting immune cell activity, and maintaining healthy cell metabolism. Vitamin D¹s role in immune health has long been established; vitamin D receptors are found on a number of immune cells, including lymphocytes and macrophages, supporting healthy immune cell activation.

Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 liquid provides 1,000 i.u. per drop, an ideal daily amount. For individuals with greater short-term needs, this product allows for achieving 25,000-50,000 i.u. vitamin D3 per week without having to take multiple capsules. For the elderly, Vitamin D3 liquid is an easy to use form. Vitamin D3 liquid, in a base of medium chain triglycerides, does not require emulsification for absorption. Vitamin D3 liquid is also free of preservatives, artificial colors, flavors and sugars.

Order Now
...as always FREE shipping and handling.

Vitamin D3 liquid
Supplement Facts

1 drop contains:
vitamin D3 1,000 i.u..
(other ingredients: medium chain triglycerides)

Not to be taken by pregnant and lactating women. It is recommended that individuals taking more than 2,000 i.u. vitamin D per day have their blood levels monitored.

WARNING: Accidental overdose of liquid vitamin D products can lead to serious adverse side effects in infants. This product is not intended for infants. The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for infants is 400 i.u. per day. This product provides 1,000 i.u. per drop.

1-7 drops per day, with a meal, or as directed by your health care practitioner.

Order Now

...as always FREE shipping and handling.

What do you Think About Vitamin D?

by Glen Depke

There is quite a bit on the internet about vitamin D, so what do you think about vitamin D?

Well, here is my take on this important nutrient.

First of all, there is a question as to whether or not vitamin D is a vitamin at all. Some claim it is a vitamin, some claim it is a vitamin with hormone type properties, while some believe it is actually a hormone. Regardless of what it is there is one agreement, we need it in adequate amounts.

First of all, what is the benefit of maintaining proper vitamin D levels? Here is a list of the benefits of proper vitamin D levels.

• Delay the onset of aging
• Improves hearing
• Assists in cancer prevention
• Enhances immune system function
• Assists in balancing hypoparathyroidism
• Potentially assists with joint pain
• Stimulates the formation of bone
• Accelerates healing of fractures
• Potentially assists with muscle soreness
• Increase muscle strength
• Aids in preventing Osteoarthritis
• Prevents Osteomalacia and Rickets
• Potentially relieves migraines
• Potentially assists with Multiple Sclerosis as well as other autoimmune disease
• Helps prevent tooth decay
• Facilitates calcium into your teeth
• Potentially relieves Psoriasis with topical application
• Stimulates the production of nerve growth factor
• Stimulates the production of insulin-like growth factor-1
• Increases absorption of calcium and phosphorus
• Improves the absorption of vitamin A
• Potentially lowers PSA levels

This is quite a list of benefits and I would suggest that we potentially have yet to scratch the surface of the multiple functional benefits to our body.

The RDA for vitamin D is now 400 to 700 IUs daily depending on age. Remember thought that the RDA is the minimum to ward off disease. The optimal daily allowance ODA is up closer to 1000 IUs daily. As a follower of Depke Wellness, I know that optimal health is your goal and therefore the ODA would be your goal.

Now that we can understand the benefits and recommended amounts, how can we be sure we are maintaining proper levels for optimal health and wellness? Let’s look at ways to address this.

My first suggestion is always to get out in the sun. Daily sun exposure is the preferred avenue for increasing vitamin D production in the body as well as so many other health benefits. Did you know that your body also uses cholesterol in the conversion of sunlight into vitamin D? I want to be clear though that you pay attention to your individual skin tone and do not over expose yourself to the sun. It is all about the correct balance. For someone that has very fair skin you may only need 10 minutes per day, while another with a dark complexion may need 30 to 40 minutes or more. It is also important to get this exposure during the peak times of 11:30AM to 1:30PM. Yes, I know that is when you have been told to stay out of the sun, but this is the best sunlight for vitamin D conversion. Remember also that you need to have total cholesterol at a minimum of 150 for this proper conversion also.

I know that most do not have the availability of daily sun exposure, so let’s look at alternatives.

From a nutritional perspective some of the higher dietary sources of vitamin D are listed below.

• Halibut oil
• Kippers
• Cod liver oil
• Mackerel
• Salmon
• Tuna
• Raw dairy
• Egg yolks
• Shrimp
• Liver

Most of the food sources do not provide the optimal levels for us individually so nutrionally, I always recommend cod liver oil. This has been used throughout our history as a significantly positive addition to the diet of most. Not only are you getting a quality source of vitamin D but also vitamin A and the ever important omega 3s that we discussed last week. When I lived back in the Chicago area, I took a krill supplement in the warmer months and cod liver oil in the cooler months. This was an incredible way for me to maintain yearlong vitamin D as well as omega 3 balance. The cod liver I recommend to my clients in cold weather climates is the Pure Cod Liver Oil. This is lemon flavor and in a liquid form to allow the highest level of absorption and assimilation. I only offer the lemon flavor to my clients. Funny, but once I purchased the non-flavored by mistake and it ended up in my dog’s food for the next month. To all those that consumed the non-flavored when they were younger, I give you a lot of credit. If you are using cod liver oil, it is recognized that 2 tablespoons per day with meals provided the ODA you're looking for.

From a supplement perspective, you could take vitamin D3 drops in a liquid form. If you are on the Krill-Plex which is the omega 3 supplement that I always recommend, and you do not want to stop taking krill through the year, you could simply add the Pure Vitamin D3 drops. This would also be the best option if taking oils in a liquid form are difficult for you. Cod liver oil is a great product but I get that it is not for everyone. All you need is one drop per day of the Pure Vitamin D3 to enhance your vitamin D needs. This is perfect for those winter months or for those that are not able to enjoy regular sun exposure. For most, that one drop per day is all that you would need.

Now you understand the importance of vitamin D and optimal health. Assess your individual needs and address this accordingly. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to respond with a post below and I will address this personally.

To order your Pure Cod Liver Oil or Vitamin D3 drops visit the Depke Wellness Store. Remember, as always shipping and handling is FREE with Depke Wellness.

Gluten Intolerance Questionnaire

www.DepkeWellness.com

Gluten intolerance has been found to be most common among people of Irish, English, Scottish, Scandinavian, and Eastern European. Often times it is assumed that gluten intolerance is a food allergy, but it is not. It is actually an autoimmune process, which affects an alarming percentage of the population. The most significant symptoms are weight gain, fatigue and depression.

The following questionnaire is an assessment tool to help you to understand the symptoms and signs that are likely to go along with gluten intolerance.

Do any of the following currently apply to you? Not necessarily in the moment, but during this time of your life.

Yes/No: Weight gain
Yes/No: Unexplained fatigue
Yes/No: Difficulty relaxing, feel tense frequently
Yes/No: Unexplained digestive problems
Yes/No: Female hormone imbalances, (PMS, menopausal symptoms)
Yes/No: Muscle or joint pain or stiffness of unknown cause
Yes/No: Migraine like headaches
Yes/No: Food allergies/sensitivities
Yes/No: Difficulty digesting dairy products
Yes/No: Tendency to over consume alcohol
Yes/No: Overly sensitive to physical and emotional pain, cry easily
Yes/No: Cravings for sweets, bread, carbohydrates
Yes/No: Tendency to overeat sweets, bread, carbohydrates
Yes/No: Abdominal pain or cramping
Yes/No: Abdominal bloating or distention
Yes/No: Intestinal gas
Yes/No: “Love” specific foods
Yes/No: Eat when upset, eat to relax
Yes/No: Constipation or diarrhea of no known cause
Yes/No: Unexplained skin problems/rashes
Yes/No: Difficulty gaining weight

Have you suffered from any of the following conditions at any point in your life?

Yes/No: Allergies
Yes/No: Depression
Yes/No: Anorexia
Yes/No: Bulimia
Yes/No: Rosacea
Yes/No: Diabetes
Yes/No: Osteoporosis/bone loss
Yes/No: Iron deficiency/anemia
Yes/No: Chronic fatigue
Yes/No: Irritable bowel syndrome
Yes/No: Crohn’s disease
Yes/No: Ulcerative colitis
Yes/No: Candida
Yes/No: Hypoglycemia
Yes/No: Lactose intolerance
Yes/No: Alcoholism

Test Interpretation Guide (combine both sections)
Number of “Yes” Responses

Potential for Gluten Intolerance

4 or less = Not likely

5 – 8 = Suspected

9 or more = Very likely

A special thank you to Dr. Daniel Kalish for the use of this questionnaire.
Dr. Daniel Kalish
www.drkalish.com
800.616.7708
2105 Industrial Court, Vista, CA 92081

Barefoot Running…Challenge and Triumph

by Glen Depke

I wanted to share a personal story about a 29 year challenge that was overcome, when hope was not apparent. As you read this, look within yourself for the personal challenge that seems insurmountable for you to overcome and realize that your triumph is possibly just a moment away.

When I was 17, I hurt my knee playing football. Of course, I tried to get back in the game right away, but to no avail, I could not put any pressure on that right leg. Back in 1981 the only option was a completely invasive surgery and opening my knee for exploration and to potentially fix the problem. I chose not to do this and unfortunately, I had given up and also chose not to do any rehabilitation.

By the time I was 24 and living in a condo on the third floor, the pain was too much and I then looked at a new option to me which was arthroscopic surgery. The surgery was claimed a success and I agreed to rehab at this point.

Well, to make the long story short, I still had knee pain and when I would push myself on any level, my knee would instantly become inflamed and put me out of commission. One movement that would instantly put me down was running. I was resigned to the fact that I may not have hope for ever regaining my ability to move freely.

Move forward 21 more years to meeting Manny Aragon at The Rolf Workshop. Manny helped me work through the multiple soft tissue imbalances that I had created as an adaption to my original injury. He exposed me to the fact that my gate was completely off and even my bones had grown improperly as a part of this adaptation. I went through a series of sessions and had to learn how to walk again. Sounds funny but true.

Interesting to me at this point is that my gate was changing and my discomfort was significantly less. At this point I wanted more.

Somewhere in my conversations with Manny he mentioned the challenges potentially created by heal/toe running that we have been taught and shared stories of others with severe knee challenges that were able to run barefoot. Barefoot, are you crazy?

Well, here I am at 46 years old and just started barefoot running. I have only been doing this for a short time but I can tell you that for the first time in 29 years, I am running pain free and free of inflammation. I am not an expert in bare foot running and I am not going to say it is for everyone, but it is definitely for me.

I was resigned to a life of knee pain and inflammation but through persistence of always creating new questions, looking for new answers, exploring options and trying something new; I am looking forward to a life of FREE movement. Wow!

I first want to thank Manny Aragon for his assistance and I also want to supply you with an article that addresses the pros and cons of barefoot running. This is a decision for you and your health care provider to make together as a team.

The real reason I wanted to share this story though, is to understand that even when you have a personal challenge that seems insurmountable for you to overcome, realize that your triumph is possibly just a moment away. Remember to form new questions, find new answers, explore your options and try something new. Heck, even if it does not work at least you can check something else off your list.

Depke Wellness is all about new questions, answers, exploration and trying something new. If you would like to talk to me personally about our protocols, feel free to click here to register for a complimentary 20 minute phone or in office visit with me.

Pure Liquid Cod Liver Oil

Pure liquid cod liver Oil is an ultra-pure, molecularly distilled genuine Norwegian cod liver oil with naturally occurring vitamin A & D

Pure Encapsulations Norwegian, cold-processed cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin A, vitamin D and essential omega-3 fatty acids. It has been molecularly distilled and tested for heavy metals, pesticides, PCBs, dioxins and furans, and other contaminants. Cod liver oil has a long history of traditional use for supporting immune health, primarily attributed to vitamins A and D. The essential fatty acids EPA and DHA maintain a healthy inflammatory response as well as healthy cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzyme activity, providing support for joint comfort and mobility. In addition, they encourage cardiovascular health by promoting healthy blood flow and healthy triglyceride metabolism. Furthermore, recent research has revealed an association between cod liver oil supplementation and positive mood.

Cod Liver Oil (lemon flavor) provides essential omega-3 fatty acids along with natural vitamin A and D for immune, joint, cardiovascular and emotional health.

Order Now

Cod Liver Oil (lemon flavor)
Supplement Facts

each teaspoon (5 ml) provides:
calories 40
calories from fat 40
total fat 4.5 g.
fish liver oil concentrate (cod) 4,615 mg.
providing (typical):
vitamin A (naturally occurring) 1750 i.u.
vitamin D (naturally occurring) 180 i.u.
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) 320-510 mg.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) 460-640 mg.

Other ingredients: natural lemon flavor, proprietary antioxidant blend (rosemary extract, ascorbyl palmitate, natural tocopherols)

1 or more teaspoons per day, with or between meals.

This formula requires refrigeration after opening. Best when consumed within 90 days after opening. Contents may appear cloudy when refrigerated.

Order Now

Air Purifying Plants

by Glen Depke

When I discuss the air we breathe I am generally talking about the importance of deep belly breathing and allow proper oxygen intake for the cells of your body. As you have heard me mention this many time before, this deep breathing is essential for you to thrive in your life and unfortunately most people live a life of short, shallow breaths which only allows for survival. To learn more about deep belly breathing click here to review a post from last year on this subject.

So today I want to talk a bit about the quality of the air we breathe. While it would be awesome if we could live on a pristine mountainside and breathe pure, fresh air; this is not real for most of us. Do to the poor quality air that we are exposed to on a regular basis, it is important to improve this in any way possible. I feel that the best way to create a shift in your air quality is to utilize air purifying plants. Below is a list of the best plants to assist in cleaning up the air you breathe.

• Areca Palm
• Lady Palm
• Bamboo Palm
• Rubber Plant
• Dracaena
• English Ivy
• Dwarf Date Palm
• Ficus Alii
• Boston Fern
• Peace Lily

Utilize these plants in the all the rooms of your house and office and put the most significant number in the rooms you spend your most time in, such as your bedroom, office and kitchen.

These will not only help improve your quality of air but also provide other positive stimulating factors for your life.

If you have any comments or questions, feel free to post below.