HERBSPHERE
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NAVIGATE |
Chocolate, HRT & Some Extra-ordinary Bars!
A Cocoa Tree with fruit pods in various stages of ripening Photo: by Medicaster taken on Big Island in Botanical Gardens, Hawaii http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Cocoa_Pods.JPG
Recent Chocolate Food Medicine Research
Historically, a long list of complaints were once treated with cacao/chocolate, including anaemia, poor appetite, mental fatigue, poor breast milk production, consumption (tuberculosis), fever, gout, kidney stones, reduced longevity; last but not least, poor sexual appetite or low virility.1
Things have moved on a bit since the 16th– to early-20th centuries, by which time manuscripts produced in Europe and New Spain revealed 100 medicinal uses for cacao/chocolate. Following that period, the main uses for chocolate were to treat emaciated patients to gain weight, which points to the need for consumption of chocolate in moderation; to stimulate nervous systems of apathetic, exhausted or feeble patients, and to improve digestion and elimination.2
However, for migraine3 sufferers chocolate may not be a panacea, but a ‘trigger’. Although a belief system may not necessarily be based on reality, fifteen years ago, a small brief double-blind parallel group study provided some objective evidence that chocolate was able to provoke a migraine attack in certain patients who believed themselves to be sensitive to it.4
Next, in 2002, Italian researchers investigating the role of foods as headache precipitants in past studies in migraine attacks and tension-type headache (TTH), and their own study involving 309 patients, found that their study suggested that foods may trigger not only migraine but also tension-type headache attacks.5 Furthermore, it was found that one third of the patients reported susceptibility to certain foods and that food sensitivity was not significantly different between patients with migraine or TTH. The foods more commonly reported as headache triggers were alcoholic drinks, chocolate and cheese. The comparison of food-sensitive with food non-sensitive patients also showed no significant difference in the clinical features.
Still, the ‘triggers’ debate continues. In Austria, autumn last year (2006), a further cross-sectional study involving 120 subjects was carried out in a headache centre.6 These comprised 66 patients with migraine and 22 with TTH from a headache out-patient clinic and 32 persons with migraine or TTH from the population. The objective was to examine the potential trigger factors of migraine and TTH and to compare the patients’ personal experience6A with their theoretical knowledge.6B The most common trigger factors experienced by the patients were weather (82.5%), stress (66.7%), menstruation (51.4%) and relaxation after stress (50%). The vast majority of triggers occurred occasionally and not consistently.
On comparing theoretical knowledge with personal experience the study showed the largest differences for oral contraceptives, chocolate and cheese. The researchers concluded that almost all trigger factors are experienced occasionally and not consistently by the majority of patients. Subjects from the population experience trigger factors less often than clinic patients. But, the difference between theoretical knowledge and personal experience is largest for oral contraceptives, chocolate and cheese.
Whatever the eventual outcome of research into migraine and tension-type headache triggers may unfold in the future, if you believe chocolate is a ‘trigger’ or know from personal experience that it is, it’s best to leave it well alone.
Chocolate Bars for Women’s Problems?
Subsequent to chilli-chocolate and fantasy chocolate bars,7 it looks like Funky8A. Chocolate Bars ‘R’ US for 2007.
There is a new and very different kind of chocolate bar by the ‘Ecco Bella’ company with a catchy title called ‘Women’s Wonder Bar’, which sounds a bit like the ‘Wonder Bra’ or German for wonderful ‘Wunderba’ (pronounced vunderba). It was launched in the USA January 2005 and will be available on the market in the UK early 2007.8 It is designed specially for women to relieve the symptoms of pre-menstrual tension (PMT), or even Menopause so it is hoped.
‘Ecco Bella’ are staging their own choco-revolution via a range of ‘health by chocolate’ products based on organic cocoa9A and cocoa butter, which fat does not raise cholesterol levels, with the addition of proprietary blends of powerful antioxidants, herbs, vitamins and minerals. The rich Swiss ‘dark’ chocolate also contains as much fibre as an apple, and is a low glycaemic food. For example, a Mars bar rates 60 carbohydrate concentration per 100g and 70 on the Glycaemic Index (G.I.), whereas Dark chocolate (with 70% cocoa solids) rates 32 per 100g and 22 on the GI.9
What else? The bar contains Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex angnus castus L.), an herb used traditionally by herbalists to relieve symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Israeli researchers found in October of last year that preliminary data support the efficacy of the Chaste Tree fruit in the treatment of PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), but stated that more research is required.10 Prior to this latest confirmation of Chaste Tree berry’s efficacy for PMS, in 2003 German researchers concluded that: “ … dompaminergic11A compounds present in Vitex agnus castus are clinically important compounds which improve menstrual mastodynia (breast pain) and possibly also other symptoms of PMS.”11
Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa [L] Nutt: Ranunculaceae) Photo: Commons Wikipedia – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_cohosh
Another traditional herbal ingredient contained in the chocolate bar, (Actaea racemosa L.- formerly Cimicifuga racemosa [L] Nutt: Ranunculaceae), commonly known as Black cohosh, is used in the treatment of menopausal hot flashes/flushes, which efficacy was also confirmed by the Israeli research.12
In 2004, British ‘expert opinion’ found: “However, the evidence ‘in vitro’, animal studies and clinical studies all suggest that Black cohosh is a safe herbal therapy for menopausal women if taken for a limited period. More research is needed to evaluate the safety of this herb over longer periods of time, and also to further investigate its mechanism of action.”13
Black cohosh took a bit of a bashing last year and found itself in a US court over labelling;.14 Its research has not fared quite so well recently, e.g. in a year-long trial of 351 women suffering from hot flashes/flushes and night sweats, appears to discredit its efficacy.15 There’s usually something amiss when this happens, which is in total conflict with evidence of a century or centuries of use by indigenous peoples - in this case native Americans - such as the design of the research, species of a plant used or other material or design faults. The researchers admit that: “The trail did not simulate the ‘whole-person’ approach used by naturopathic physicians. Differences between treatment groups smaller than 1.5 Vasomotor symptoms [i.e. hot flushes and night sweats] per day cannot be ruled out.” So, one might say the research is somewhat selective. However, for any ‘best-seller’ herb this is par for the course, for if as much funding was spent on investigating the remedial value of herbs versus discrediting them we would all be better off.
Part of the answer to the onslaught on this best-seller herb may lie in the conclusive last line in this Black cohosh research in 2001, especially as women are shunning conventional HRT: “Contemporary uses of black cohosh are geared toward the treatment of symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes/flushes, and menopausal anxiety and depression. Extracts also have been shown to be useful for younger women suffering hormonal deficits following ovariectomy16A or hysterectomy, 16B as well as for juvenile menstrual disorders. A number of clinical studies using Remifemin, a standardized extract, have demonstrated efficacy for the alleviation of menopausal complaints. The safety profile of black cohosh is positive, with low toxicity, few and mild side effects, and good tolerability. In European phytotherapy, Remifemin is commonly prescribed as an effective alternative to hormone replacement therapy for menopause.” 16 And thereby hangs the tale, because not only in the UK are women eschewing clinical HRT because of its links to cancers, but also in the USA - HRT isn’t selling!
University of Texas researchers recorded a 7% drop in new breast cancer cases in the US in 2003 when the use of HRT was on the wane.17 The researchers recorded an even bigger fall, 12% in cases of hormone-dependent breast cancer among women aged 50-69 – UK researchers say they have also seen a drop in breast cancer cases in women in their early 50s.18
In 2002, a large study of women using HRT was halted after evidence emerged that the form of therapy being used apparently increased the risk of developing breast cancer. In the wake of the scare, by the end of 2002 the number of American women on HRT had halved.19
Dr. Peter Ravdin told the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium,20 an international scientific symposium for interaction and exchange among basic scientists and clinicians in breast cancer that around 14,000 fewer US women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, compared with the previous year. He said the fall could be linked to the fact that millions of women gave up HRT following reports questioning its safety. “Something went right in 2003, and it seems that it was the decrease in the use of hormone therapy, but from the data we used we can only indirectly infer that is the case.”21
The team suggested that the figures could be explained by existing tumours stopping growing, shrinking or disappearing so that they could not be detected. Dr Donald Berry, co-researcher on the study, remarked: “It takes breast cancer a long time to develop, but here we are primarily talking about existing cancers that are fuelled by hormones and that slow or stop their growing when a source of fuel is cut.”22
So far the HRT Drop-bomb’s responses are that it was said women who had been using HRT should not worry, “Although HRT increases the risk of breast cancer while it’s being used, once women stop taking it the risk falls away quite quickly.”23 In addition, senior policy and information officer, Dr Sarah Cant of the charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said there was not enough information to say that a decline in HRT use had led to the decrease. “Although we’ve known for some time that taking HRT can increase the risk of developing breast cancer, short-term use is likely to have only a small effect. We advise women to weigh up the risks and benefits of taking HRT with the help of their GP.”24
In the meantime, it is likely that the powers that be will continue with HRT as before until more data from other countries is compiled. However, no mention is made that in an American scientific review in 2002, it was concluded that: “Benefits of HRT include prevention of osteoporotic fractures and colorectal cancer, while prevention of dementia is uncertain. Harms include Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), stroke, thromboembolic events,25A breast cancer with 5 or more years of use, and cholecystitis.” 25B & 25 Nor is the general public appraised of or aware of the fact that one in three women will get osteoporosis at some time in their lives, but “there are alternative treatments such as biphosphonates, which do not carry the HRT additional risk of breast cancer. … in most cases they are as effective as HRT.”26
In the light of the fact that some medical professionals only recommend HRT for those who desperately need it and for short duration, it is hard to see what benefits HRT can possibly offer to avoid osteoporosis. Back in 2001, French researchers observed that “the pattern of bone loss observed after cessation of oestrogen therapy was found to be comparable to that which occurs in younger women within the first years after menopause.”27 In fact, Canadian researchers last year stated: “our results allow to hypothesize that BMD (Bone Mineral Density) 27A may decline after short-term HRT discontinuation, which would increase the fracture risks. Indeed our results show that past-HRT users are osteopenic28A just as non-users.”28 In other words, there's no ‘bone-density’ gain for using HRT and risking cancers! It is true to say the Canadian researchers advised: “these results should be re-examined using a prospective trail and a larger sample size.” There may be some differences or discrepancies regarding which form of HRT is used, but as a ‘selling point’ for the therapy to ward off osteoporosis the research punctures the prior inflated claims – they fall rather flat.
The HRT dispute will, no doubt, run and run or is changing form. It is noteworthy, also last year, that in a German article entitled ‘Hormone replacement therapy: curse or blessing?’ the researchers say: “There is controversial discussion on the risks and benefits of hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), and many women and doctors have revised their opinions of HRT over the last few years.” Then it is stated, importantly out of the mouths of the establishment: “Complementary and alternative therapies can be considered an option to treat menopausal symptoms.”29 Another published German article in 2006 concludes that: “Lifestyle modifications, black cohosh and phytoestrogens may relieve climacteric symptoms, [but] phytoestrogens and black cohosh should not be given to breast cancer survivors.”30
The claims that HRT may aid dementia have also been in the firing line and found to be on a sticky wicket. In 1998, although it had been thought that HRT could be used as a treatment to delay or prevent the onset of dementia,31 this proved to be erroneous. In 2004, it was reported that major research (The US Women’s Health Initiative study 2003) suggested HRT may increase the risk of developing dementia.32 “Oestrogen plus progestin therapy increased the risk for probable dementia in postmenopausal women aged 65 years or older.33 In addition, oestrogen plus progestin therapy did not prevent mild cognitive impairment in these women.34 These findings, coupled with previously reported WHI data, support the conclusion that the risks of oestrogen plus progestin outweigh the benefits.”35
With oestrogen most definitely ‘out of the window’ there’s a new hormonal kid on the block being tested by American researchers to aid Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It is suspected that another hormone of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, 36 luteinizing hormone (LH), 37 as a major factor in AD, to which end a trail of leuprolide acetate, which suppresses LH release, has been initiated in patients.38 & 39 It may seem a long haul from ‘a bar of chocolate’ to aid the menopause to Alzheimer’s disease, but our bodies and brains are intertwined. Just as sex is part of the menopausal stage and arena of life, sexually related hormones are also concerned with the function of the brain.
Soybean in pods - (Glycine max [L] Merr.) Photo: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Soybean.USDA.jpg
Before leaving our wunderba ‘Wonderbar’ of menopausal chocolate, another useful ingredient contained therein is pure, whole Soya bean powder, including the isoflavones40 genistein and daidzein, which isoflavones studies have shown the ability to mimic human oestrogen,41 help to reduce insomnia, loss of libido, night sweats and hot flushes42 with positive effects on bone,43 breast44 and heart health.45 In fact, recent Spanish research suggests from a study of isoflavones, such as soybean, it is possible to alleviate the disturbances caused by menopause and they can provide benefits to women and should be included “in the field of medicines which give an alternative to estrogen therapy;”46 and/or where in postmenopausal women there are contraindications for conventional HRT.47
In December 2006, American researchers also found a compound produced by specially grown soybeans may prove to be successful in the prevention of growth and/or spread of breast cancer and be useful in the prevention or treatment of breast and ovarian carcinoma.48
Soy has had some other good press, i.e. eating tofu regularly can almost halve a woman’s chances of developing ovarian cancer according to scientists from the Northern California Cancer Centre in January of this year, who carried out the research involving 100,000 active and retired teachers.49 A study found that a daily portion of 10-gm of the food, cut the risk by 44%. This level of consumption releases around 3mg of more of isoflavones.50 The benefit also came from other products of the soya plant, including soya fortified milk and diary products, e.g. a small tofu-based meal or a drink of soya milk would provide 3mg of isoflavones.51 Other American research is finding soy’s genistein equally rewarding in the anti-carcinogenic arena.52
The ‘Wonderbar’ boasts the inclusion of Cranberry Seed Oil, a novel ingredient.53 It contains a blend of Omega-3, -6 and -9 essential fatty acids, which has a naturally balanced 1:1 Omega-3 and Omega-6 profile, crucial to skin, heart, brain and total cellular health.54 Useful to a healthy diet, the oil uniquely contains natural antioxidants that keep it fresh for two years.55
Also melded into the chocolate bar is the fibrous part of the sugar cane ‘FOS’ (fructooligosaccharide), well known as prebiotics which improve intestinal microflora ‘good bacteria’ of the digestive tract and optimize digestion.56 FOS also have increasing effect on the absorption of calcium, magnesium and iron, which effects have been confirmed in animal and human studies.57 It clearly prevents decrease of bone mineral density (BMD) and calcium absorption has been seen to increase by 50%! 58
To put the final stamp of femininity on the ‘Wonderbar’ rose oil is added, which not only smells beautiful and is a total expression of womanliness, but also has a soothing effect on the nerves.59
All in all, this is perhaps the most useful chocolate of the century. At the very least, eaten in moderation, this bar of chocolate should do no harm; the ingredients hold promise by their potential, if not a guarantee, to do a lot of good. You may also find HRT cake60 and HRT bread61 recipes useful.
Chocolate Bars & Chocolate Industry
Chocolate has been used as a vehicle for other medicines from time immemorial, although illegally supplying cannabis-laced chocolate bars (Canna-biz bars) to multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers, even if prior medical evidence of their condition is evidenced and provided, is not allowed;62 the chocolate industry itself is showing more and more interest in creating therapeutic chocolate bars.
Indeed, cannabis has recently been shown to have potential to aid Parkinson’s disease - maybe chocolate as a ‘carrier’ could yet legally feature cannabis in its medicinal role somewhere in the future.63
The results of a marketing oriented consumer survey of around 1,000 consumers in each of Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland and the UK, via telephone or face-to-face interviews on healthy chocolate, conducted on behalf of cocoa manufacturer ‘Barry Callebaut’,64 who have developed its ‘ActiCoa’64A polyphenol-preserving process and have also come up with a way to naturally reduce the sugar content in chocolate by as much as 40%, suggest that the industry has made huge strides in the direction of the health foods sphere.65 The results showed that ‘on average’ 35.6% of people interviewed indicated they would buy chocolate that promised health benefits.66
The survey also highlighted the French as the leader of the pack as dark-chocolate supporters with a 57% consumer uptake; Belgium returned at 47%, next the Swiss came in at 40% and the Brits 35%; the tail-ender was Germany at 7% consumption.67
Interestingly, in all countries some respondents said they would be prepared to pay more for chocolate that is beneficial to their health.68 On average, 23.3% said they could be prepared to pay up to 10% more for such chocolate, and 11.4% would be prepared to pay up to 20% more, which clearly demonstrates that the ‘Age of the healthy chocolate bar’ has arrived.69
Furthermore, European consumers appear to grasp the difference between chocolate with a cocoa content of over 70%, which research has demonstrated to have a preventive role in relation to serious conditions such as heart health, versus other sugary confections with low cocoa levels and subsequently less polyphenols that are considered to be ‘junk food’ of little nutritional value e.g. so-called ‘white chocolate’.70 Also, reassuringly, “market researchers generally advise that only foods that have a basic healthy profile should be considered as carriers for healthy ingredients, as otherwise they are seen as novelties that contradict the aim of promoting wellbeing.”71
Apart from other aforementioned remedial chocolate bars, high-cocoa chocolate is already being used as a vehicle for functional ingredients, e.g. the ‘Attune’ chocolate bar containing probiotics that are found naturally in most yogurt and tofu, to keep the digestive tract happy, weighs-out at ‘100 calories per bar’ and comes in three flavours: chocolate crisp, cool mint chocolate and blueberry vanilla.72
A division of Mars Incorporated, Mars Nutrition for Health & Well-Being, has been following the ‘healthy chocolate’ trail for a long time before it produced it’s ‘CocoaVia’ products. It reportedly took ten years of research and development (R&D) in addition to the fifteen years research on flavanols to develop a patented proprietary process called Cocoapro, which ensures flavanols remain active and are not destroyed.73 The cocoa flavanols, plant sterols from Soy (1.5mg) are combined with calcium, folic acid, vitamins B6, B12, C and E together with other nutrients to produce the ‘CocoaVia’ line of products that includes chocolate bars.74
Although ‘CocoaVia’ contains a consistent level of cocoa flavanols (at least 100mg. per serving), each chocolate bar is one serving containing 100 calories; 6gms. fat; 1 gm. protein, 12gms. carbohydrates and 9gms. of sugar.75 The two recommended servings daily of the ‘CocoaVia’ product equates to 200 calories extra and 35% of one’s daily fat intake, which suggests that any health benefits would be counteracted by the gain of 20 lbs or 9.9 kg. in the course of a year.76 You can’t win ‘em all, all of the time!
However, even vegetarians and vegans are catered for in this new wave of healthy chocolate bar consumption. Venture Foods, the UK-based organic and ethical foods specialist, has added two new products to its ‘Organica’ organic, fair-trade, vegan confectionery bars line, bringing the total number of offerings in the range to six.77 The ‘Organica’ vegan chocolate bar range is gluten-free, soya-free, dairy-free and non-GM, which includes Swiss Dark chocolate with Cranberries – a healthy choice. The Montezuma’s Dark Chocolate Orange Bar (Orangutan) has a similar profile, but also incorporates essential oil of oranges and crystallized orange nibs.78 South Devon Chilli Farm ‘Chilli Chocolate’ There are probably more brands of therapeutic or at least healthier versions of the dark chocolate bar ‘out there’ waiting to be sampled. Meanwhile, if South Devon Chilli Farm’s delicious dark ‘Chilli Chocolate’79 is your favourite choco-munch, since the New Year two bits of interesting and good news have come to light regarding chilli peppers’ natural compounds contained in chilli chocolate.
Firstly, in January, research conducted at Nottingham University England and Cardiff, Wales, found that chilli’s capsaicin can kill cancer cells safely!80 The study was led by Dr Timothy Bates, who is a member of the Medical Research Council (MRC) College of Experts. Dr Bates and his colleagues tested the capsaicin on human lung cancer cells, which is recognized as the ‘gold standard’ for new anti-cancer drugs. They also tested similar compounds on pancreatic cancer cells and found the same effect – the tumour cells died off leaving the surrounding tissue intact.81 This is an excellent and exhilarating result because pancreatic cancer has a 5-year survival rate of less than 1% and is currently one of the most obstinate cancers to treat.82
What is more, the study that led to this discovery is the first to emerge from an exciting newly formed Nottingham UK-China Collaboration on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NUKCAM), which has members from the University of Nottingham and the Chinese National Academy of Sciences. For example, Professor De-An Guo, who is head of the Shanghai Research Centre for the Modernisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine is working with Dr Bates to discover why TCM is successful in treating cancer and other diseases.83
This month, way across the other side of the world in original the homelands of the chilli pepper, archaeologists in Ecuador found evidence that chillies were used in South-western Ecuador for trade and cooking much earlier than previously thought – more than 6,000 years ago! 84 The fascinating findings showed that it was people in this area who first added the spice to cooking and not, as first thought those in the highlands of Peru or Mexico. Amazingly, the microfossils found at seven sites dating from 6,000 years before present to European contact ranged from the Bahamas to southern Peru. The author of the report, Linda Perry, stated that the findings will change perceptions about the sophistication of food on the continent, thousands of years before Christopher Columbus85 arrived.
Well, all this recent research not only goes to show that Chilli chocolate has a great deal going for it, for chocolate has a star-studded past with historical Aztec royal approval, but chilli is even more ancient and archaeologically proven to be a highly sophisticated and remedial natural plant ingredient. What more could anybody possibly ask of a bar of dark chocolate!
Look out! There’s more medicinal chocolate virtues on their way.
References:
1. ‘Food of the gods: cure for humanity? A cultural history of the medicinal and ritual use of chocolate.’ Dillinger TL, Barriga P, et al. Dept. of Nutrition, Uv. of California at Davis, CA, USA. J Nutr. 2000 Aug; 130(8S Suppl):2057S-72S. 2. Ibid. 3. Migraine: a moderate to severe vascular headache; occurs more frequently in women than men. It may run in families. According to the International Headache Society, migraine headache pain must have four of the following characteristics: one-sided, pulsating or throbbing, at least moderate if not severe, and worsened by ordinary daily activities such as climbing stairs or housework. In addition, the disorder may be accompanied by dizziness, nausea, vomiting or extreme sensitivity to light and sound. In rare cases, weakness, language problems, or other neurological disorders are associated with migraine. 4. ‘Chocolate is a migraine-provoking agent.’ Gibb CM, Davies PT, et al. Berhard Baron Memorial Research Laboratories, Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital, London, UK. Cephalagia. 1991 May; 11(2):93-5. 5. ‘Food and headache attacks. A comparison of patients with migraine and tension-type headache.’ Savi L, Rainero I, et al. Neurology III, Headache Centre, Dept. of Neuroscience, Uv. of Turin, Turin, Italy. Panminerva Med. 2002 Mar: 44(1):27-31. 6. ‘Trigger factors of migraine and tension-type headache: experience and knowledge of the patients.’ Wober C, Hozhammer J, et al. Dept. of Neurology, Medical Uv. of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. J Headache Pain. 2006 Sep; 7(4):188-95. Epub 2006 Aug 11. Comment in J Headache Pain. 2006 Sep; 7(4):172-3. 6A. Personal experience: of a human being is the actual moment-to moment experience and sensory awareness of our being alive and noticing what is around us. There have been many different beliefs about it, and about how easy it is to exchange what is experienced: Pain is normally thought to be a universal experience, but modern theories like the gate control theory of pain challenge that, as do traditional Yogi practices and other spiritual traditions that focus on simply ‘not feeling pain’. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_experience [The gate control theory of pain, put forward by Ronald Melzack (a Canadian Psychologist) and Patrick Wall in 1962, and again in 1965, is the idea that physical pain is not a direct result of activation of pain receptor neurons, but rather its perception is modulated by interaction between different neurons.]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gate_control_theory_of_pain 6B. Theoretical knowledge: a precise and thorough statement of all plausible conditions that explain a process of behaviour. 7. ’Is Chilli Chocolate the 2007 Aphrodisiac?’ – (See ‘Herbsphere’) 8. ‘Women’s Wonder Bar’ – http://www.eccobella.com/_WWBFAQs.html 8A. Funky: In old parlance ‘funk’ means to be in a state of cowardly fright. It defies precise definition but appears to be a 1970s cannabis culture derived word sometimes used by N. American West Coast wine-tasters when describing aromas so complex that individual identification is difficult. Funk is also a distinct style of music originated by African-Americans, e.g. James Brown, recently deceased, and his band members, especially Maceo and Melvin Parker. Funky can have positive or negative connotations depending on context. In this particular case it uses the meaning of being ‘stylish and modern in an unconventional way’. 9. Glycaemic Index Information and Charts - http://www.glycaemicindex.com/ 9A. Cocoa: is the dried and partially fermented fatty seed of the cacao tree from which chocolate is made. It may refer to either the dried and partially fermented seeds of the cacao tree, which are used to make chocolate; or, more usually in the United States, to cocoa powder, the dry powder made by grinding the seeds and removing the cocoa butter from the dark, bitter cocoa solids. Cocoa powder has a bitter flavour. Cocoa butter is also used for cosmetics etc. as it is quickly absorbed into the skin to soften, lubricate, moisten and add nutrients to the skin. It works to prevent and treat scars, stretch marks and damaged skin. 10. [Herbal medicine in women’s’ life cycle] [Article in Hebrew] Ben-Arve E, Oren A, Ben-Arie A. The Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Dept of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel. Harefuah. 2006 Oct; 145(10):738-42, 782. 11. ‘Chaste tree (Vitex Angus-castus) – pharmacology and clinical indications.’ Wuttke W, Jarry H. et al. Dept. of Clinical land Experimental Endocrinology, Uv. of Gottingen, Germany. Phytomedicine. 2003 May; 10(4):348-57. 11A. Doperminergic: liberating, activated by, or involving Dopamine or related substances. Dopamine: is a chemical naturally produced in the body, a neurotransmitter found in the brain and essential for the normal function of the Central Nervous System (CNS). It is also a neurohormone released by the hypothalamus. 12. [Herbal medicine in women’s’ life cycle] [Article in Hebrew] Ben-Arve E, Oren A, Ben-Arie A. The Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Dept of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel. Harefuah. 2006 Oct; 145(10):738-42, 782. 13. ‘The safety of black cohosh (Actea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa). Huntley A. Uv.'s of Exeter and Plymouth, Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Exeter, Devon, UK. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2004; 3(6):615-23. 14. ‘US court dismisses black cohosh Law Suit’ – October 12, 2006 http://www.naturalproductsonline.co.uk/home.asp?ItemID=2196&rcid=70&pcid=69&cid=70 15. ‘Treatment of vasomotor symptoms of menopause with black cohosh, multi-botanicals, soy, hormone therapy, or placebo: a randomized trial.’ Newton KM, Reed SD, et al. Group Health Centre for Health Studies, the Uv. of Washington, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre, Seattle, Washington, USA. Ann Intern Med. 2006 Dec 19; 145(12):869-79. 16. ‘Black Cohosh: efficacy, safety, and use in clinical and preclinical applications.’ McKenna DJ, Jones K, et al. Institute for natural Products Research in Marine, St. Croix, Minn., USA. Altern Ther Health Med. 2001 May-Jun; 7(3):93-100. 16A. Overiectomy (also called Oophorectomy): The surgical removal of one or both ovaries. 16B. Hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus and, sometimes, the cervix. When the uterus and part or the entire cervix is removed, it is called a total hysterectomy. When only the uterus is removed, it is called a partial hysterectomy. 17. ‘Breast Cancer Drop linked to HRT’ BBC News Online 15th December 2006 – http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6182445.stm 18. Ibid. 19. Ibid. 20. Ibid. (The 29th annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium was held 14th -17th December 2006 at Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Centre, San Antonio, TX, USA.) 21. Ibid. Quote: Dr Peter M. Ravdin, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Medicine University of Texas Health Science Centre, San Antonio, Texas, USA. 22. Ibid. Quote: Dr Donald Berry, Ph.D., an International Expert in the field of Biostatistics, holds the Frank T. McGraw memorial Chair for Cancer Research at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Centre, where he is chairman of the Department of Biostatistics and Applied Mathematics. 23. Ibid. Quote: Professor Valerie Beral, Director of the Epidemiology Unit at Cancer Research UK in Oxford, UK. 24. Ibid. Quote: Dr Sarah Cant, Senior Policy & Information Officer, of the Charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer, London, UK. 25. ‘Postmenopausal Hormone Replacement Therapy: Scientific Review.’ Nelson HD, Humphrey LL, et al. Oregon health and Science Uv., Portland, Oregon, USA. JAMA. 2002 Aug.21; 288(7):872-81. Comment in: ACP J Club, 2003 Mar-Apr; 138(2):41. JAMA. 2003 Jan 1; 289(1):44-5; author reply 45. 25A. Thromboembolic events: symptoms caused by blood clots reducing or blocking the flow of blood to important tissues. 25B. Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gall bladder. 26. ’Expert resigns over HRT warning,’ BBC News Online 4th December 2003 - Quote: Dr Hamish Meldrum, from GPs Committee at the British Medical Association - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/3290979.stmxx 27. ‘Withdrawal of hormone replacement therapy is associated with significant vertebral bone loss in postmenopausal women.’ Tremollieres FA, Pouilles JM, Ribot C. Menopause and Bone Metabolic Diseases Unit, Endocrinology Dept., CHU Rangueil, Toulouse, France. Ostopors Int. 2001; 12(5):385-90. 27A. BMD: A term used in quantifying the mineralization of bone re: a risk factor for fractures. The mineral component of bone consists largely of calcium and phosphorus. BMD is positively associated with bone strength and resistance to fracture. BMD can be determined through a low radiation X-ray technique known as DEXA. The amount of mineralised bone tissue in a given area, usually calculated as grams per square centimetre. Usually expressed as the amount of mineralized tissue in the area scanned (g/cm2); with some technologies, expressed as the amount per volume of bone (g/cm3). Hip BMD, considered the best predictor of hip fracture, appears to predict other types of fractures as well as measurements made at other skeletal sites. Spine BMD may be preferable to assess changes early in menopause and after bilateral ovariectomy. 28. ‘Past-Users of HRT are Osteopenic Four Months After Discontinuation: An Observational and Cross-sectional Study.’ Aubertin-Leheudre M, M Eacute Lancon MO, chaput JP, Dionne IJ. Uv of Sherbrooke, Pavillion D Youville, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada. J Women Aging. 2006; 18(4):19-29. 28A. Osteopenic: pertaining to osteopenia: reduced bone mass due to a decrease in the rate of osteoid synthesis to a level insufficient to compensate normal bone lysis. The term is also used to refer to any decrease in bone mass below normal. Lysis: Recuperation in which the symptoms of an acute disease gradually subside. 29. [Hormone replacement therapy: curse of blessing?] [Article in German] Schmidt M, Fink D, Lang U, Kimmia R. Gynakol Gerburtshilfliche Rundsch. 2006; 46(4):165. 30. [Complementary and alternative therapies for climacteric symptoms] [Article in German] Reinhard-Hennch B, Strowitzki T, von Hagens C. Ambulanz fur Natureheilkunde und Integrative Medizin, Abteilung Gynakologische Endokinologie und Fertiliatsstorungen, Universitatsklinkum Heildelberg, Heidelberg, Duetschland. Gynakol Geburtshilfliche Rundsch. 2006; 46(4):197-213. 31. ‘The W omen’s Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS): a trail of the effect of oestrogen therapy in preventing and slowing the progression of dementia. Shumaker SA, Reboussin BA, Espeland MA, Rapp SR, McBee ML, Daily M, Bowen D, Terrell T, Jones BN. Dept. of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest Uv., School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. Control Clin Trials. 1998 Dec; 19(6):604-21. 32. Dementia risk ‘increased by HRT’ BBC News Online 22nd June 2004. & 33. ‘Oestrogen plus progestin and the incidence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment in postmenopausal wome4n: the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study: A randomized controlled trial.’ Shumaker SA, Legault C, Rapp SR. Thal L. Wallace RB, Ockene JK, Hendrix SL, Jones BN 3rd, Assaf AR, Jackson RD, Kotchen JM, Wassertheil-Smoller S, Wactawski-Wende J, WHIMS Investigators. Dept. of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest Uv., School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. JAMA. 2003 May 28; 289(20):2651-62. Comment in: Can Farm Physician. 2004 Feb; 50:235-7. Evid Based Ment Health. 2003 Nov; 6(4):111. JAMA. 2003 May 29; 289(20):2717-9. JAMA. 2003 Oct 1; 290(13):1706-7; author reply 1707-8. JAMA. 2003 Oct 1; 290(13):1706; author reply 1707-8. JAMA. 2003 Oct 1; 290(13):1707; author reply 1707-8. JAMA. 2003 Oct 1; 290(13):1707; author reply 1707-8. 34. Ibid. 35. Ibid. 36. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (also HPTA): is a way of referring to the combined effects of the hyupotyhalamus, pituitary gland and gonads as if these individual endocrine glands were a single entity. Because these glands often behave in co-operation, physiologists and endocrinologists find it conveneient and descriptive to speak of them as a single system. The HPTA is a critical part in the development and regulation of a number of the body’s systems, such as the reproductive and immune systems. 37. Luteinizing: to undergo transformation into corpora lutea i.e. the ‘corpus leuteum’ forms at the site of the ovulation on the ovary, and produces progesterone. 38. Leuprorelin (INN) or Leuprolide acetate (USAN): is a gondotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist). By causing constant stimulation of the pituitary HvRH receptors, it initially causes stimulation (flare), but thereafter decreases pituitary secretion (downregulation) of gonadotropins lueteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Like other GnRH agonists, leuprolide may be used in the treatment of hormone-responsive cancers such as prostate cancer or breast cancer, oestrogen-dependent conditions (such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids), to treat precocious puberty, and to control ovarian stimulation in IVF. It is considered a possible treatment for paraphilias [“Treatment of parahilia in young adults with leuprolide acetate: a preliminary case report series.” Saleh F, Niel T, Fishman M (2004). J Forensic Sci 49(6):1343-8.] Recently, it has been suggested as a possible treatment for autism where testosterone may have a synergistic effect on mercury toxicity, although this is currently regarded as medical hypothesis. [“The potential importance of steroids in the treatment of autistic spectrum disorders and other disorders involving mercury toxicity.” Geier M, Geier D. (2005). Med Hypotheses 64(5):946-54]. 39. ‘Evidence for the role of gonadotropin hormones in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.’ Casadesus G, Atwood CS, et al. Institute of Pathology, Case Western Reserve Uv. , Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2005 Feb; 62(3):293-8. & ‘The Estrogen myth: potential use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.’ Casadesus G, Garrett MR, et al. Dept. of Pathology, Case Western Reserve Uv., Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Drugs R D. 2006; 7(3):187-93. 40. Isoflavones. a subclass of the flavonoids, are a class of organic compounds and biomolecules related to the flavonoids. They act as phytoestrogens in mammals. They are also strong antioxidants. Isoflavones may have positive effects in humans such as cancer inhibition, increased bone strength, and a decrease in heart disease. Isoflavones found in soybeans include glycinin, daidzin, glycetin, and genistin. These compounds are known antioxidants and genestin 41. Benefits of soy germ isoflavones in postmenopausal women with contraindications for conventional hormone replacement therapy.’ Petri Nahas E, Nahas Neto J, et al. Dept. of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State Uv., Sao Paulo, Brazil. Maturitas. 2004 Aug 20; 48(4):372-80. ‘Benefits of Soy Isoflavone therapeutic regimen on menopausal symptoms.’ Han KK, Soares JM, et al. Dept of Gynaecology, Escola Paulista de Medicina/Federal Uv. of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Obstet Gynecol. 2002 Mar; 99(3):389-94. 42. Meta-analysis supports isoflavones for hot flushes’ by Stephen Daniells – Australian research: ‘Isoflavone therapy for menopausal flushes: A systematic review and meta-analysis’ Howes, LG, Howes JB, Knight DC. Maturitas 2006 Oct 20; 55(3):203-211. [Effect of soybeans and soy sauce on vasomotor symptoms during menopause] [Article in Spanish] Gutierez Martinez Mde. M. Riqueleme Rava R, et al. Unidad Docente de Matronas, Servicio Andaluz de Salud, Universidad de Granada. Rev Enferm. 2006 Jun; 29(6):16-22.l 43. ‘Tofu mends broken bones and teeth’ BBC News Online 1 December 2004. “The tofu material could be a gel or paste material made from the vegetarian food to help repair broken bones and teeth. The de-fatted soybean curd would act like polyfiller to fill in defects. It has the added advantage of encouraging new bone to grow as it biodegrades and releases natural anti-inflammatory agents.” Tofu: Also called Doufu or bean curd is a bland ingredient, soft cheese-like food of Chinese origin, made by curdling soya milk with a coagulant ‘nigari, taken from crude salt, and then pressing the resulting curds into blocks. The making of tofu from soy milk is similar to the technique of making cheese from milk. Often used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes. “Diadzein together with high calcium preserve bone mass and biomechanical strength at multiple sites in ovareictomized mice.’ Fonseca D, Ward WE. Dept of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Uv. of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. Bone. 2004 Aug; 35(2):489-97. ‘Effect of neonatal exposure to genistein on bone metabolism in mice at adulthood.’ Piekarz AV, Ward WE. Dept of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Uv. of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. Pediatr Res. 2007 Jan; 61(1): 48-53. 44. “Soy Phytochemicals Synergistically Enhance the Preventive Effect of Tamoxifen on the Growth of Estrogen-Dependent Human Breast Carcinoma in Mice.” Mai Z, Blackburn GL, Zhou JR. Nutrition/Metabolism Laboratory, Dept. of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. Carcinogenesis. 2007 Jan 18; (Epub ahead of print] 45. ‘Soy Protein, Isoflavones, and Cardiovascular Health’ An American Heart Association (AHA) Advisory for Professionals From the Nutrition Committee. Frank M Sacks, MD, Alice Lichtenstein, DSc. et al. Circulation 2006; 113:1034-1044 [Epub. Ahead of print 17 January 2006] 46. [Effect of soybeans and soy sauce on vasomotor symptoms during menopause] [Article in Spanish] Gutierez Martinez Mde. M. Riqueleme Rava R, et al. Unidad Docente de Matronas, Servicio Andaluz de Salud, Universidad de Granada. Rev Enferm. 2006 Jun; 29(6):16-22. 47. Benefits of soy germ isoflavones in postmenopausal women with contraindications for conventional hormone replacement therapy.’ Petri Nahas E, Nahas Neto J, et al. Dept. of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State Uv., Sao Paulo, Brazil. Maturitas. 2004 Aug 20; 48(4):372-80. 48. ‘Super soy’ could help fight against breast cancer’ by Stephen Daniells – 18.1.2006. ‘Glyceollins from soybeans may stop breast cancer cell growth’ by Stephen Daniells – 11.1. 2007 - Nutraingredients USA. http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com ‘Anti-estrogenic glyceollins suppress human breast and ovarian carcinoma tumorigenesis.’ Salvo VA, Boue SM, et al. Section of Haematology and Medical Oncology, Dept of Medicine, Tulane Cancer Centre, New Orleans, LA, USA. Clin Cancer Res. 2006 Dec 1; 12(23):7159-64. 49. ‘Eating tofu can slash ovarian cancer risk’ Daily Mail, 12th January 2007. 50. Ibid. 51. Ibid. 52. ‘Genistein-induced apoptosis and autophagocytosis in ovarian cancer cells.’ Gossner G, Choi M, et al. Uv. of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. Gynecol Oncol. 2007 Jan 16; (Epub ahead of print] 53. ‘Women’s Wonder Bar’ – http://www.eccobella.com/_WWBFAQs.html 54. Ibid. 55. Ibid. 56. Ibid & [Prevention of osteoporosis by foods and dietary supplements. The effect of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) on the calcium absorption and bone] [Article in Japanese] Ohta A. Josai International Uv., Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lab. of Applied Nutrition. Clin Calcium. 2006 Oct; 16(10):1639-45. 57. Ibid. 58. Ibid. 59. ‘Women’s Wonder Bar’ – http://www.eccobella.com/_WWBFAQs.html & ‘Anticonflict effects of rose oil and identification of its active constituents.’ Umezu T, Ito H, et al. Endocrine Disruptors and Dioxin Project Group, Japan. Life Sci. 2002 Nov 22; 72(1):91-102. 60. HRT Cake - http://www.anniebakes.com/favorites.htm 61. HRT Bread - http://www.odlums.ie/pages/r_HRTBread.htm 62. ‘Chocolate drugs trio spared jail’ - BBC News Online 26th January 2007 – [The three people Mark Gibson, his wife Lezley of Alston, Cumbria and Marcus Davies of St Ives, Cambs., were each given a 9-month suspended jail term for supplying cannabis-laced chocolate bars to MS sufferers. … The Gibsons plan to appeal against their conviction.] 63. ‘Brain ’cannabis’ Parkinson’s hope – BBC News Online 8th February 2007. & ‘Endocannabinoid-mediated rescue of striatal LTD and motor deficits in Parkinson’s disease models.’ Keritzer AC, Malenka RC. Dept of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Nancy Pritzker Lab., Stanford Uv. Medical School, Palo Alto, California 94305, USA. Nature. 2007 Feb 8; 445(7128):643-7. 64. re: “Callebaut’s products and ingredients, particularly those based on its ActiCoa polyphenol-preserving process.” - See www.acticoa.com 64A. Acticoa: a new process under the trademark ‘Acticoa’ aims to preserve more of the healthy polyphenols that are often lost during cocoa bean processing. Acticoa covers several processing stages, from harvesting through the processing of cocoa bens to the finished product, chocolate. The greatest loss in terms of natural polyphenols takes place during the fermentation of cocoa beans. The Acticoa methods reduce the loss of polyphenols from 70% in standard industry to 20%. & See http://www.acticoa.com/en/9 From: ‘Barry Callebaut promotes cocoa’s healthy side.’ By Catherine Boal, 1st December 2006 - http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?id=72453 & ‘Barry Callebaut Develops Revolutionary Process for Making Chocolate with High Concentrations of Polyphenols’ 20th November 2006 – www.Foodprocessing.com 65. ‘Chocolate taps consumer health concerns’ by Jess Halliday – Food Navigator.com Europe, 31st January 2007. 66. Ibid. 67. Ibid. 68. Ibid. 69. Ibid. 70. Ibid. 71. Ibid. 72. Ibid. & ‘Attune Bars’ by Anna Roufos , 13.12.2006 – What Real Women Eat - http://www.whatrealwomeneat.com/2006/12/13/attune-bars/# 73. ‘Chocolate taps consumer health concerns’ by Jess Halliday – Food Navigator.com Europe, 31st January 2007. & Mars Inc. – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CocoaVia 74. Ibid. 75. Ibid. & Press Release ’CocoaVia Health Facts’ - Fortified chocolate is good for the heart, but there is a catch according to the Harvard Heart Letter. http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/cocoavia_health_facts.htm 76. Ibid. 77. ‘UK: Venture Foods adds to Organica Bar range’ 9th November 2006 - www.just-food.com/article.asp;z?id=96599&lk=nd02 78. Ibid. 79. (See Herbsphere – “Is Hot ‘chilli chocolate’ the 2007 Aphrodisiac?” )The South Devon Chilli Farm – Home Page: http://www.southdevonchillifarm.co.uk/?referrer=devonchillifarm&gclid=CJfUgvqxuIoCFUZtMAodJgTkPQ & South Devon Chilli Farm Outlets: http://www.southdevonchillifarm.co.uk/outlets.html 80. ‘Chilli’s Capsaicin Can Kill Cancer Cells Safely’ 22.1.2007 – http://www.nutritionhorizon.com ‘Vanilloid receptor agonists and antagonists are mitochondrial inhibitors: How vanilloids cause non-vanilloid receptor mediated cell death.’ Athanasiouo A, Smith PA, Bates TE, Guo DA, et al. School of Biomedical Sciences, Uv. of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK. Biochem Biosphys Res Commun. 2007 Jan 2; [Epub ahead of print] & 2007 Mar 2; 354(1):50-5. Epub 2007 Jan 2. 81. Ibid. 82. Ibid. 83. Ibid. 84. ‘Chilli peppers have ancient history’ by Lauran Neergaard – AP Writer, 15th February 2007 - http://dwb.sacbee.com/24hour/healthscience/story/3554827p-12781009c.html & ‘Chilli heated ancient cuisine’ by Dan Collyns BBC News, Lima, Peru, 16th February 2007. ‘Starch fossils and the domestication and dispersal of chilli peppers (Capsicum sppl L.) in the Americas.’ Perry L, Pearsall D M et al. Archaebiology Program, Dept. of Anthropology, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA. Science. 2007 Feb 16; 315(5814):986-8. 85. Christopher Columbus (1451?-1506): was a navigator and maritme explorer credited as the ‘discoverer of the Americas. Although he is more commonly associated with Spain, because he was sponsored by the Catholic Monarchs, he is said to have been born in Genoa (modern Italy), and his birth name was Cristoforo Colombo. He eventually became an admiral for the Crown of Castillo. The name Christopher Columbus is an anglicized version of the Latin Chrisophorus Columbus, which is in Castillian Spanish Cristóbal Colón, although his native language was Geonoese. |
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