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Beets & Athletic Performance

Beets

Beets are renowned for their potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing athletic performance. Here’s how beets can positively impact health and athletic endeavors:

  1. Nitric Oxide Production: Beets are rich in dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps relax and dilate blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise. This enhanced blood flow can enhance endurance and reduce the oxygen cost of exercise, allowing athletes to perform better for longer durations.
  2. Improved Exercise Efficiency: Studies have shown that consuming beetroot juice or beet supplements can lead to improvements in exercise efficiency, allowing athletes to maintain a given workload while requiring less oxygen. This effect may be particularly beneficial for endurance athletes, such as runners and cyclists, by delaying fatigue and improving overall performance.
  3. Increased Stamina and Endurance: The nitric oxide boost from beets can enhance stamina and endurance by improving the efficiency of energy production within muscles. This may result in athletes being able to sustain higher intensities for longer periods, leading to improved performance in both aerobic and anaerobic activities.
  4. Enhanced Recovery: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of beets may aid in post-exercise recovery by reducing muscle soreness and inflammation. Consuming beets or beet-derived supplements post-workout can help replenish glycogen stores, reduce oxidative stress, and promote faster recovery between training sessions.
  5. Blood Pressure Regulation: Beet consumption has been associated with lower blood pressure due to its nitric oxide-boosting effects. While this benefit is not specific to athletic performance, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is essential for overall cardiovascular health and optimal athletic performance.
  6. Improved Cognitive Function: Some research suggests that the nitric oxide produced from beet consumption may enhance cognitive function and mental performance. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes who require focus, concentration, and decision-making skills during training and competition.

Incorporating beets into your diet, either in whole form, as beet juice, or in supplement form, may offer various health benefits, including enhanced athletic performance. However, individual responses to beet consumption may vary, so it’s essential to experiment with timing, dosage, and form to determine what works best for you. As always, consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or supplementation regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.

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A Protocol for Vaccine Injury/Recovery and COVID “Long-Haulers”

Updated from FLCCC. Frontline COVID19 Critical Care Alliance. Download I-RECOVER summary here and the full protocol here. 

“FLCCC’s goal is to educate healthcare providers and empower patients with the tools and resources they need to take control of their own health.”

This document was created to provide medical-grade sourcing and ease of ordering for supplements and devices recommended in the ”I-Recover” per the FLCCC protocols.

First-Line Therapies

  • Intermittent daily fasting or periodic daily fasts.
  • Moderating physical activity.
  • Sunlight and Photobiomodulation. (Use code PURIST for 10% off).
  • Ivermectin; 0.2-0.3 mg/kg daily. (Requires a prescription)
  • Low-dose naltrexone (LDN); 1- 4.5 mg daily. (Requires a prescription)
  • Nattokinase 100-200 mg (2000- 4000 Fibrinolytic Units) twice daily. 
  • Melatonin; 2-6 mg slow release/extended release prior to bedtime
  • Magnesium; 100-400 mg daily
  • Resveratrol; 400-500 mg daily
  • Probiotics/prebiotics
  • Methylene blue; 10-30 mg daily
First Line Supplements

Second-Line/Adjunctive Therapies 

(Listed in order of importance) 

  • Vitamin D (4000-5000 units/day) and Vitamin K2 (100 mcg/day)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids; we suggest a combination of EPA/DHA with an initial dose of 1 g/day (combined EPA and DHA) and increasing up to 4 g/day (of the active omega-3 fatty acids)
  • N-acetyl cysteine (NAC); 600-1500 mg/day
  • Cardio Miracle™ and L-arginine/L-citrulline supplements 
  • Nigella sativa; 200-500 mg encapsulated oil twice daily
  • Sildenafil with or without L-arginineL-Citrulline. (Sildenafil requires a prescription).
  • Bromelain 500 mg twice daily +/- N Acetyl cysteine (NAC)
  • Vitamin C; 1000 mg orally two to three times a day
  • Spermidine; 1000-2000 mg (wheat germ extract) daily
  • Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) 
  • Intravenous Vitamin C; 25 g weekly, together with oral Vitamin C 1000 mg (1 gram) 2-3 times per day 
  • Behavioral modification, relaxation therapy, mindfulness therapy, and psychological support
Second-Line Supplements

Complete Supplement List of First & Second Line Supplements

All Supplements

Third Line Therapies

  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
  • Low Magnitude Mechanical Stimulation (LMMS or Whole-Body Vibration)
  • “Mitochondrial energy optimizer” Cardio Miracle™
  • Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ); 200 mg twice daily for 1-2 weeks, then reduce as tolerated to 200 mg/day. (Requires a prescription).
  • Low dose corticosteroid; 10- 15 mg/day prednisone for 3 weeks. Taper to 10 mg/day and then 5 mg/day, as tolerated. (Requires a prescription).

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified, licensed medical professional. The facts presented are offered as information — not medical advice. Any treatment protocol should be discussed with a trusted, licensed medical professional. Never stop or change medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Some embedded links are affiliate links for which Purist Natural Medicine may receive a profit.

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Oral and Gut Health

Oral Health

Holistic dental health goes beyond just taking care of our teeth and gums; it encompasses the connection between oral health and gut health. Research has shown that there is a strong link between the two, highlighting the importance of maintaining both for overall well-being.

Oral health plays a crucial role in our overall health. Neglecting it can lead to various dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. However, what many people don’t realize is that poor oral health can also have an impact on our gut health.

The mouth serves as the gateway to our digestive system. The bacteria present in our mouths can travel down into the gut through swallowing, influencing the balance of bacteria in our digestive tract. This is true for pathogens in the sinuses as well for individuals with chronic post-nasal drip. This imbalance can contribute to digestive problems and even systemic diseases.

In the pursuit of optimal oral health, it is essential to consider a holistic approach that goes beyond just brushing and flossing.  Incorporating additional practices such as using a waterpik, tongue scraping, oil pulling and gargling can greatly enhance your oral hygiene routine.

Oil pulling, a traditional Ayurvedic technique that involves swishing oil in the mouth to improve oral hygiene. Oil pulling has been found to have numerous benefits for dental health. It helps remove harmful bacteria from the mouth, promoting a healthier oral microbiome. By swishing oil around the teeth and gums, it can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent cavities.

Waterpik, also known as a water flosser, is an effective tool that uses a stream of water to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gumline. It reaches areas that traditional flossing may miss, providing a thorough clean and reducing the risk of gum disease.

Tongue scraping is another important practice for holistic dental health. The tongue harbors bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues. By gently scraping your tongue with a tongue scraper, you can effectively remove bacteria buildup and improve overall oral hygiene.

Gargling with saltwater solution is yet another beneficial habit. This helps to reduce bacteria growth in the mouth, reduces inflammation, freshens breath, and promotes healthy gums.

Dentalcidin Oral Care

To further enhance holistic dental health, products like Dentalcidin have emerged as effective tools. Dentalcidin is a natural antimicrobial solution specifically designed to support oral health. It contains botanical extracts that target harmful microbes while maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth.

By incorporating oil pulling and products like Dentalcidin into your oral care routine, you can take proactive steps towards achieving optimal dental health. Embracing this holistic approach not only promotes a clean and healthy mouth but also contributes to overall well-being.

In addition to incorporating holistic dental practices as mentioned in this article, adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and probiotics can help support a healthy gut microbiome while providing essential nutrients for optimal oral health.

By recognizing the connection between oral health and gut health, we can take a more comprehensive approach to dental care. Prioritizing both aspects will not only result in healthier teeth and gums but also contribute to overall wellness from within.

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Athletes and Gut Health

Surfer Athlete
Explore Gut Tests

Understanding the connection between athletes and gut health is crucial for optimizing their performance and recovery. Stool testing has emerged as a valuable tool in this field, providing valuable insights into an athlete’s digestive system and overall well-being.

Athletes rely on their bodies to perform at peak levels, and a healthy gut plays a significant role in achieving optimal performance. The gut not only aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients but also influences immune function, inflammation levels, and even mood.

Stool testing along with Micronutrient Testing allows athletes to identify any imbalances or issues within their gut microbiome. By analyzing the composition of bacteria, parasites, yeast, and other microorganisms present in the stool sample, athletes can gain valuable information about their digestive health.

Addressing any imbalances or dysfunctions found through stool testing and micronutrient testing can lead to improved recovery times, enhanced nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, and ultimately better athletic performance. Athletes who prioritize their gut health may experience:

Increased energy levels

Optimal recovery time

Reduced gastrointestinal distress during exercise

Improved overall well-being

In conclusion, incorporating stool testing and micronutrient testing into an athlete’s routine can provide valuable insights into their gut health. By addressing any imbalances or issues identified through this process, athletes can optimize their recovery process and enhance their performance on the field or court. Prioritizing gut health is not only beneficial for athletes but for anyone seeking to achieve optimal physical well-being.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided in this blog for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this blog post. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Athletes and Altitude

Altitude

A Naturopathic approach to preventing adverse symptoms during endurance competition at elevation.

Altitude can have an impact on the overall well-being and performance. Higher elevations mean lower oxygen concentrations in the atmosphere. Athletes who are not yet adapted to the change in lower oxygen concentrations could present with symptoms such as headache, nausea, insomnia, light-headedness, brain fog, anorexia and more seriously, altitude sickness.

Those who live and/or train at high altitude are better adapted to the lower oxygen concentrations. The physiological adaptations that occur when training at altitude are a performance advantage for the endurance athlete. 

For those athletes who are not yet adapted to the higher altitude, below is a list of strategies to mitigate the potential adverse symptoms associated with competing at high altitude.

Gradual Ascent

The best strategy to prevent high altitude sickness is a gradual ascent to promote acclimatization. Once above 2500m (8,202ft), the altitude at which one sleeps should not be increased by more than 600m (1,968ft) in 24 hrs. and then an extra day should be added for the acclimatization for every increase of 600m to 1200m (3,937ft) in this altitude. For purposes of competing in Mammoth, CA (7,900 ft), it may be a good strategy to find accommodation in Bishop, CA, approximately a 45 minute drive at lower altitude.

The best strategy to prevent high altitude sickness is a gradual ascent to promote acclimatization. Once above 2500m (8,202ft), the altitude at which one sleeps should not be increased by more than 600m (1,968ft) in 24 hrs. and then an extra day should be added for the acclimatization for every increase of 600m to 1200m (3,937ft) in this altitude. For purposes of competing in Mammoth, CA (7,900 ft), it may be a good strategy to find accommodation in Bishop, CA, approximately a 45 minute drive at lower altitude.

Training Technologies: Oxygen and Hydrogen

 

Exercise With Oxygen Therapy

Training strategies such as intentionally lowering oxygen concentrations will allow the body to adapt to the higher altitude by signaling the kidneys to produce a hormone called erythropoietin. This may be accomplished by training at elevation and sleeping in lower elevations. If one does not have access to training at elevation, it is possible to mimic the training at altitude with technologies such as the EWOT. 

EWOT stands for Exercise With Oxygen Therapy.  It is an oxygen device which connects to your breath and acts on the body’s physiology by alternating between oxygen-rich gas (~95% oxygen) to a lower concentration oxygen gas. This is similar to exercising at an altitude of 12,000 feet (~13% oxygen). By alternating between high and low oxygen concentrations, you’re able to simulate a high-altitude workout in short bursts (30 seconds).

Exercise with Oxygen Therapy

H2 Hydrogen Inhalation and Drinking System

Molecular hydrogen has been shown to achieve a number of important benefits. It can improve athletic performance because, via passive diffusion, it quickly reaches subcellular compartments and helps protect proteins, RNA, DNA, mitochondria and cell membranes from damage.

Molecular hydrogen

Herbal Support

 

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba has been used prophylactically to prevent headaches at altitude. The mechanism of action is unknown. It may block inducible nitric oxide; an antioxidant oxygen radical scavenger; may block platelet-activating factor. Gingko Biloba must be used in caution in pregnant women and individuals on antithrombotic agents.* Studies show, “Ginkgo biloba prevented acute mountain sickness during a gradual ascent to 5000 m and reduced both the symptoms and the incidence of acute mountain sickness by 50 percent during an abrupt ascent to 4100 m.”

When taken prophylactically, 4-5 days before the event, likelihood of headache will decrease.

Gingko Biloba

Cordyceps

Cordyceps has been traditionally used in Asia for strenuous, high altitude activities and as an immune tonic. Additionally it is known for its antioxidant support, DNA-protecting properties, and lung-supporting effects, Cordyceps also supports an engaged and balanced immune response. Cordyceps supports energy, stamina and endurance, promotes healthy respiration, kidney function, brain health with aging and more. Dosing for high altitude varies. Some individuals may start 1 month prior to their high-altitude event at around 2000mg  three times per day. 

Cordyceps

References:

Hackett. “High-Altitude Illness.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 198, no. 1, 1928, pp. 50–50, https://doi.org/10.1056/nejm192802231980115.

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Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided in this blog for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this blog post. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.