Your Daily Dose of Health

I just read about a study from the Journal of Clinical Investigation, which studied the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC).  They are claiming to find NAC a molecule that tricks blood vessels in believing they are not getting enough oxygen.  This leads to a problem called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).  This creates high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood to the lungs.   

Dr. Ben Gaston of the study says, “We found that an NAC product formed by red blood cells, know as a nitrosothiol, bypasses the normal regulation of oxygen sensing. It tells the arteries in the lung to ‘remodel’; they become narrow, increasing the blood pressure in the lungs and causing the right side of the heart to swell.” 

I do not know the amounts used or any more about the case other than the studies were performed on mice. 

The NAC nutrient is a precursor to the bodybuilding supplement glutathione.  Glutathione is an antioxidant, protein and used in maintenance of the immune system.   

NAC is a derivative of the amino acid L-cysteine.  It is produced in the body in almost every cell, but its highest concentration is in the heart, muscle and the liver.  It can be found in eggs, meat, red peppers, garlic, onions, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, oats, milk, whey protein, and wheat germ. 

One of my biggest downfalls is I let go of my mind.  I become mindless at times.  When I let go of control of my mind, there is no saying what is in control.

I have tried to practice being mindful of myself.  One way was to think about the words I use.  Rich and poor are good examples of misused words.  What do we think of when we hear rich or poor? Wealth and poverty? I believe that there is a great difference between rich and wealthy. 

Anyone who has worked with people who do not own a lot will find those who are both rich and poor.  Richness of life is to enjoy and respect life.  Poor in spirit comes in many different forms, even million dollar homes.

I have read a great book that I recommend everyone own a copy of to refer back to.  “Peace is Every Step” by Thich Nhat Hanh.  He really focuses on the mindfulness that we need to survive in this world. 

You can open the book on any given page and be inspired by what is suggested.  I feel so humbled while reading.  To be rich is so easy-you just need time to reflect and be in the moment. 

Where are you right now? How is your breathing? Is it shallow? Where is your body in space?  Are you heavy, slumping in your chair? Are you sick of life? The first step is to know where you are-become aware.  Don’t change yet, start by knowing your body.  Get to know your self again.  Look at your feet, what are they up to?

 Only when you know yourself, then can you change for the better…