Hurricanes: No athletes positive for steroids

CORAL GABLES, Fla. -

Miami officials released a statement Thursday night saying that more than 10,000 drug tests performed by the university since 2005 have resulted in no positive results for anabolic steroids by its athletes.

The statement came amid reports that the school and its baseball program has been linked to an ongoing Major League Baseball investigation into whether players many of whom either train at or played collegiately at Miami have been getting performance-enhancing drugs from anti-aging clinics in South Florida.

It's a rare step for Miami, which as a private institution typically does not release sensitive information such as details of its drug-testing policy publicly.

Miami officials released the following statement:

"The University of Miami's comprehensive drug testing policy, enacted in 1995, continues to evolve as the methods and reliability of testing have improved and as more drugs have been introduced into the world of competitive sports.

The University's program is monitored by a University committee, which includes medical professionals, and is overseen by a Medical Review Officer--currently, a former UM Miller School of Medicine physician--who ensures the integrity and confidentiality of the drug testing program. An outside third-party firm administers the tests and provides results to the University.

Since 2005, approximately 3,380 student-athletes have been tested more than 10,000 times by the University, in addition to drug tests administered by the NCAA. During that period, no student-athlete has tested positive for anabolic steroids. The University of Miami, like many of our peer institutions, the NCAA and many professional sports leagues, does not currently test for Human Growth Hormones.

The University of Miami's drug testing policy is consistent with those at most NCAA Division I programs and provides more stringent penalties--including game suspensions for first-time positive results--than many of our peers.

As stated last week, we have initiated an internal review involving an employee and will continue to monitor developments."

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Hurricanes: No athletes positive for steroids

What Causes Early Puberty in Girls?

While most are stunned by the news that a 9-year-old girl who had been raped gave birth in Mexico, doctors have known for years that the average age of puberty is declining.

A landmark 1997 study in the journal Pediatrics prompted a redefinition of early onset puberty, from 8 to 7 among Caucasian girls and 7 to 6 among African-American girls for early breast development.

While age of puberty is decreasing, the number of girls entering puberty early is increasing: about 16 percent of girls enter puberty by the age of 7, and about 30 percent by the age of 8, according to one study.

The main question is, Why?

A study publishedrecentlyin the journal Nature Neuroscience seems to have fit another piece into the puzzle, when researchers were able to delay puberty in female rats by manipulating protein levels. They discovered a group of proteins that regulate the activity of a gene called the Kiss1 gene, which is required for puberty to occur.

Study author Serjio Ojeda, a neuroscientist and professor in the Oregon Health & Science UniversitySchool of Medicine, says that his teams findings raise the possibility that environmental factors play a role in early onset puberty.

"It poses the question as to how are these epigenetic mechanisms responding to the environment?" he said. "These are difficult questions we haven't answered yet. Is it nutrition, man-made chemicals? That's the next step, how can we connect these environmental stimuli?"

"That's the crystal ball question," agrees Dr. William Crowley, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, the Chief of the Reproductive Endocrine Unit of the Department of Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, who has studied early onset puberty for 35 years but was not involved in Ojeda's study.

The research is starting to coalesce, he said.

"The tipping point is very close," he said. "It's like when you're paddling down a great river and it gets very quiet just before the falls, and it looks pretty benign until you start to hear a dull roar. That's the kind of sense everybody has right now; you can kind of hear a dull roar."

Continued here:
What Causes Early Puberty in Girls?

Atkins Diet Update

Colleague of Celebrity Dietician Shares

FAQ on Low-Carb Diets

When Dr. John Salerno a protg of Atkins Diet creator Dr. Robert Atkins testified before the U.S.D.A. about plans for its most recent Food Pyramid revision, he spoke his mind: The food industry is corrupt and has supported recommendations that do not support the populations health.

Hidden sugar, preservatives and highly processed white starch are what are really causing our health epidemic in the United States, says Salerno, author of The Silver Cloud Diet, (www.thesilverclouddiet.com). Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and Alzheimers disease are killing this country, and its not because people are eating too much organic natural fats.

Since the initial popularity of the Atkins food plan some years ago, however, there have been critics of the low-carbohydrate diet. The science was and is sound, says Dr. Salerno, who worked closely with Atkins on research. The problem was that the diet itself was not sustainable.

The basic principles needed revision both to make the diet sustainable and to take into account the foods available today, he says.

How does a low-carb diet work? Salerno answers the most frequently asked questions:

How is a low-carb diet today different from the Dr. Atkins plan? Thirty years ago, the food supply was less degraded. Now, low-carb dieters have to be more proactive about selecting chemical-free foods that are not highly processed. There are many more farming techniques today that introduce unnatural elements into our meats and vegetables, and there are many, many more highly processed foods on store shelves. We need to be vigilant about preservatives and additives; hormone-infused meat can wreak havoc on a body.

Whats the first step? The Fat Fast Detox quickly puts ones body into fat-burning mode. Adhering to the carb-free diet for two weeks will have participants losing five to 15 pounds and two inches from the waistline. Breakfast, for example, could include two large organic eggs and a side of bacon, sausage or ham, which can be washed down with coffee or tea with cream and sweetener.

Originally posted here:
Atkins Diet Update

Q&A with doctor and comedian Cynthia Shelby-Lane, who will speak at the Heart and Vascular Expo in Jackson

Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane, 62, who has a prevention and wellness practice in Detroit, will talk about Heart Sense and Humor at 9 a.m. Saturday at the 9th Annual Heart and Vascular Expo.

She is a graduate of both University of Michigan Medical School and The Second City School of Comedy in Chicago and believes in the healing power of laughter. She is a board certified anti-aging specialist, as well as an author, talk show host and comedian.

Shelby-Lane is also featured in the 2013 Aetna African American History Calendar for the month of April.

Mlives Monetta Harr asked Shelby-Lane a few questions about her background and humor and health go hand-in-hand.

Q: Multiple degrees are not uncommon, but it seems very unusual to have a medical degree and one from a famous comedy school.

Shelby-Lane: I did a lot of research on heart disease and I know endorphins are good for our brain, every part of our body. I read about Norman Cousins (a journalist who discovered humor as he battled illness and wrote, "I made the joyous discovery that 10 minutes of genuine belly laughter had an anesthetic effect and would give me at least two hours of pain-free sleep.). Whether you watch the Three Stooges or laugh at a joke, you can heal faster. And the staff needs laughter as much as patients do. You have to bring laughter into hospitals, get people to see the lighter side of life and it works.

Q: How did you decide to attend the comedy school?

Shelby-Lane: I was an emergency room doctor in Detroit and I was seeing a lot of kids dying. But it wasnt until my best friend was killed that I enrolled in Second City. She and I were sitting in a restaurant talking, she was very mellow and calm. Twenty minutes after we said goodbye she went home and her sister accidentally killed her, thinking she was an intruder. I was so distraught and remembered all we did was talk about what we were going to do next. So when she was killed I decided to pursue my dream of being a comedienne. I worked midnights at Detroit Receiving Hospital, flew to Chicago from Detroit City Airport, took a bus to Second City, attended classes and flew home in time to start my ER shift. I did that twice a week for two years.

Q: Do you get serious with your patients?

Shelby-Lane: Yes, I teach them how to take care of their hearts and their health. Everybody thinks this happens to older people, but I work with young athletes and we are seeing teenagers dying on basketball courts from heart issues. It is all very disturbing.

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Q&A with doctor and comedian Cynthia Shelby-Lane, who will speak at the Heart and Vascular Expo in Jackson

Nutritional strategies to combat Alzheimer's featured in March issue of Life Extension® Magazine

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --It's quite possible you may have someone in your family or know of someone who has a friend or loved one that has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. According to an article in the March issue of Life Extension Magazine, someone in America develops Alzheimer's every 68 seconds and that rate is projected to more than double by 2050, to one every 33 seconds.

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But just because mainstream medicine has no solutions, doesn't mean you can't push back against this dreaded disease.

The Life Extension Magazine article highlights many compounds that have much research behind them and demonstrates their ability to target multiple degenerative steps in the development of Alzheimer's. According to the article, written by Liam Hawkins, these compounds may not only prevent the disease from developing, it can also modify the course of the disease itself, revering cognitive deficits, restoring memory and delaying the progression of the disease.

The article provides a short overview of 25 nutrients with strong evidence from human studies that may support their use by those who have been attacked by the disease.

Also discussed is the role of anti-inflammatory drugs and especially metformin (derived from the French lilac bush), may help the body break down and deactivate proteins that contribute to the neurofibrilliary tangles characteristic of neurons affected by Alzheimer's disease. Most applications for metformin today have to do with diabetes and insulin resistance, which are increasingly relevant topics for Alzheimer's researchers. Overall, this makes for a fascinating theory.

The March issue of Life Extension Magazine is available at many leading book storesand supermarkets nationwide. For more information on how to obtain a copy of the magazine, visit http://www.lef.org or call Life Extension at 1-866-864-3027.

Life Extension Magazine is a monthly publication of the Life Extension Foundation Buyers Club with a readership of over 350,000. The magazine provides coverage of new discoveries involving anti-aging dietary supplements.

The Life Extension Foundation Buyers Club promotes, sells, and distributes the most scientifically advanced health supplements on the market, offering a full range of premium-quality vitamins, minerals, and hormones as well as unique, specially made formulas.

For more information:Sheldon Baker, Director of Public Relations 954.202.7739 Cell 954.790.5512 SBaker@LifeExtension.com

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Nutritional strategies to combat Alzheimer's featured in March issue of Life Extension® Magazine

Leeza Gibbons leading the fight against Alzheimer's tells her side of the story in the March issue of Life Extension® …

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Best known for her role as anchor and reporter on television's Entertainment Tonight, these days Leeza Gibbons is becoming more recognized for working with Alzheimer's caregivers and their loved ones. In the March issue of Life Extension Magazine, Gibbons reveals her uphill battle caring for her mother suffering from this dreaded disease for the past 10 years.

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As a result, Gibbons created an Alzheimer's caregiver empire of invaluable resources for the loved ones of Alzheimer's disease patients. In 2002, she formed The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation and Leeza's Place for caregivers.

As Gibbons told Life Extension Magazine, "We're not involved in the diagnosis or medical area of Alzheimer's. What we do is become partners with continuing care in the community. We align ourselves with hospitals and non-profits while our partners handle the medical side of things."

According to Gibbons' website, Leeza's Place is where family caregivers can become educated, empowered and energized, as well as interact with a support team to gain resources and create their own strategy of coping.

In addition to working with caregivers, the article also notes Gibbons' work with the science and scientists who are working to find a cure for the disease. Gibbons is using her appointment by former Calif. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger as an Alzheimer's Advocate to become more involved in the science aspect of an Alzheimer's cure.

Her participation with the renowned California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has put her at the door step of cutting-edge cures. Some of that research which has taken place at the University of California focuses on restoring memory in mice.

The Life Extension article also touches on Gibbons' involvement in dealing with a loved one's Alzheimer's diagnosis, and her take on a proper diet that includes dietary supplements.

The March issue of Life Extension Magazine is available at many leading book stores and supermarkets nationwide. For more information on how to obtain a copy of the magazine, visit http://www.lef.org or call Life Extension at 1-866-864-3027.

Life Extension Magazine is a monthly publication of the Life Extension Foundation Buyers Club with a readership of over 350,000. The magazine provides coverage of new discoveries involving anti-aging dietary supplements.

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Leeza Gibbons leading the fight against Alzheimer's tells her side of the story in the March issue of Life Extension® ...

Stem Cells = Shots For Wellness?

After the cosmetic procedures of plastic surgery have become an open secret via showbiz endorsements left and right, the buzz word these days is Stem Cell Therapy - credited to have given senior celebrities and politicians their youthful looks and vigor. As a result, many people in the throes of their advancing maturity levels are now scrambling to get these admittedly pricey shots for themselves. This boom has given rise to many claims, even on the internet, where advertisements are a dime a dozen for shady deals and do-it-yourself kits.

Dr. Cristina Puyat, a founding member of the Philippine Stem Cell Society and who practices at the Anti-Aging Sciences and Cosmetic Institute (ASCI) at the Medical Plaza Ortigas in Pasig City, explains the basics of this treatment. She starts off by saying that it is nothing new. "Stem cell therapy is also known as a stem cell transplant. Adult hematopoietic, or blood-forming stem cells from bone marrow have been used in transplants for over 40 years."

From ewe to you?

She then explains the basic building blocks of the procedure. "A stem cell is a cell that has the ability to divide and self-replicate for indefinite periods. Given the right signals, stem cells can (re-create) many different cell types that make up the organism. Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body, and in many tissues they can serve as an internal repair system, so that they can divide essentially without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person is still alive."

According to Puyat, who is also a founding member and head of Public Relations of the World Council of Preventive, Regenerative & Anti-Aging Medicine (WOCPM), there are different forms of cell transfer available:

1. An Allograft is the transplantation of cells between two genetically non-identical members of the same species.

2. A Xenograft is the transplantation of cells from one species to another. An example of this is transplanting sheep cells to humans.

3. An Autologous graft (Autologous Therapy) is the transplantation of cells from one part of the body to another in the same individual.

Of the three, she says that at the ASCI, stem cells are harvested via autologous (the patients themselves) donors only; either from their bone marrow, blood and/or adipose tissue. "Because of the lack of the host's response to a foreign cell or tissue, this is the safest mode of transplantation in all age types, including the immune-compromised elderly." She adds, "according to Health Secretary Enrique Ona, the public should be careful about receiving cell preparations that are being offered in the Philippines and elsewhere, such as embryonic, aborted fetal, genetically altered, and especially animal stem cells. Additionally, the American Cancer Society says that the use of animal cells in humans carries a lot of risks, as patients can contract bacterial and viral infections carried by the animal cells, and some have had life-threatening and even fatal allergic reactions. Other reports list complications such as brain swelling or the immune system attacking blood vessels or nerves following cellular treatment. Serious immune system reactions resulting in death have also been reported."

The cell potential

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Stem Cells = Shots For Wellness?

Turning Up The Heat

Alex Rodriguez was implicated in a report last week alleging he was given performance-enhancing drugs from 2009-12.

AP

The notebooks reported to belong to Florida wellness clinician Tony Bosch connect New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez to a staggering array of drugs and supplements to be used literally morning, noon and night and through multiple delivery systems, including lozenges, creams and injections. Those notes, parts of which the Miami New Times have published online, provide the road map Major League Baseball investigators have begun to follow.

A contingent of MLB officials met in Miami on Monday with New Times staff members to learn more about the notebooks, how they were acquired, the names of other players not named in the report and the possibility of the New Times turning over those documents.

Investigators also intend to follow Bosch's notes to see if they lead to corroborating evidence, such as receipts for plane trips and overnight packages, according to a source close to the investigation. The source said investigators also are tracking packages tied to Juan Nunez, a player confidante who formerly worked for agents Sam and Seth Levinson and who was a co-conspirator with Melky Cabrera of a web site scam staged after a failed drug test by Cabrera last year.

New Times editor Chuck Strouse confirmed MLB officials asked for the notebooks and logs but that the publication had not yet decided about how to respond to the request. "We are deliberating," he said.

Strouse said the publication has received only one response from legal representatives of any of the named persons in the report -- and that was what he termed an "aggressive letter" questioning whether the report violated federal HIPAA laws, which are designed to protect patient privacy under care of health care providers.

The notebooks contain a trove of information from 2009-12, especially about Rodriguez and a suggested volume of doping almost unheard of in baseball. The documents released by the New Times connect Rodriguez to at least 19 drugs and supplements, including the banned substances testosterone, HGH and IGF-1, and define one doping regimen that includes as many 19 injections: four subcutaneous injections of IGF-1, nine shots of CJC (a growth hormone releasing hormone) and GHRP (growth hormone releasing peptide), and six shots of HGH at 2.5 international units.

Rodriguez, through a statement, has denied being treated by Bosch and characterized the documents as "not legitimate." Bosch has issued a statement denying an association with the named players.

"The only thing that surprises me is . . . to be using that much is a surprise," said Gary Wadler, a past chairman of the World Anti-Doping Agency's prohibited list. "I don't think any particular substance is the issue as long as you have one banned substance. The fact of the matter if he's doping, if it's two substances or five substances, as long as you have one banned substance, you're doping. The other thing you see are the various delivery systems of doping, whether under the skin or [by] mouth."

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Turning Up The Heat

Skinspirations to Host Red Carpet Pre-Academy Awards Party in Clearwater Cosmetic Center

CLEARWATER, Fla., Feb. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Dress in your best "A-list" outfit on February 21, 2013, as Skinspirations transforms their cosmetic medical facility into a glamorous pre-Academy Awards party. Live demonstrations of different non-surgical cosmetic procedures will be held for guests, along with an appearance by Marvelous Marvin Boone of WJQB 106.3 FM and refreshments and hors d'oeuvres created by Delicious Dishes catering. For attendees who want to walk the red carpet, have their photographs snapped by paparazzi and enjoy a night of beauty, the party will be held at 13577 Feather Sound Drive, Suite 555, Clearwater, FL 33762, from 5 PM-7:30 PM.

Celebrities don't take their beauty routines lightly, especially for the biggest night in Hollywood. Stars may prep for months ahead of time, including custom exercise regimens, $345 facials, $2,000 haircuts and laser facials at $600 a session(1). Dr.Cynthia Elliott, board-certified owner of Skinspirations, guarantees that her patients can come in for non-surgical procedures which can be completed in less than one hour at a fraction of the cost of Hollywood glam.

Dr.Elliott and her staff will be demonstrating non-surgical cosmetic services to party-goers. Guests will be able to schedule future appointments and receive a special discount when booked the night of the party.

On February21, Skinspirations will be demonstrating the following:*

*Subject to change without notification

This event will benefit the local Dress for Success, a not-for-profit organization that offers services to help women enter the workforce, stay employed, advance in their careers and improve their lives. Skinspirations would like to encourage everyone who attends to donate an item from the Dress for Success wish list found at: http://www.dressforsuccess.org/affiliate.aspx?sisid=69&pageid=330. Those who donate an item from the wish list will be entered to win a $500 Skinspirations gift card.

For more information about Dr.Cynthia Elliot and Skinspirations, or to schedule an evaluation, visit http://www.skinspirations-info.com.

About Dr. Cynthia Elliott and Skinspirations:

Cynthia Elliott, M.D., is the board-certified owner of Skinspirations, located in Clearwater, Florida. Dr.Elliott obtained her M.D. from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and then completed her residency in Emergency Medicine at Denver General Hospital and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. She has been on staff at Bayfront Medical Center, St.Joseph's Hospital, University Community Hospital and Mease Countryside Hospital, and has served on the faculty of the USF School of Medicine. Dr.Elliott currently serves as an expert witness in Cosmetic Medicine for the Florida Board of Medicine. Her company, ExpertEsthetics, provides online video training in advanced injection techniques, as well as hands-on technique training for other practitioners. Dr.Elliott also is a national and international trainer for Cutera Lasers, training other physicians in the use of aesthetic lasers with skin of all colors. Skinspirations specializes exclusively in rejuvenation, enhancement and anti-aging treatments for the face and body. With her staff of aesthetic experts, you know you'll get the best results obtainable. Dr.Elliott has been in practice for over 20years, and has the experience and reputation to have been chosen by the makers of Botox Cosmetic and Juvederm to train other physicians and practitioners in her techniques. For more information, visit http://www.skinspirations-info.com.

(1) Prabhakar, Hitha. Forbes.com. February22, 2007. "How Celebs Get Red-Carpet Ready," http://forbes.com/2007/02/22/cost-oscar-carpet-forbeslife-cx_hp_0223redcarpetready.html

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Skinspirations to Host Red Carpet Pre-Academy Awards Party in Clearwater Cosmetic Center

You think you’re healthy? Best intentions can spell bad news – Mon, 04 Feb 2013 PST

Eating too much sugar certainly isnt wise for your waistline, but did you know that overindulging in dessert can add years to your face? And even if you do strenuous cardio workouts each week, youll be missing out on potential anti-aging body benefits if your schedule doesnt include yoga, weight training andrest.

Find out if youre making one of these eight common diet and exercise mistakes, and get smart prevention strategies that can keep you slim and youthful for years tocome.

The breakdown of sugars, called glycation, damages the collagen

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Eating too much sugar certainly isnt wise for your waistline, but did you know that overindulging in dessert can add years to your face? And even if you do strenuous cardio workouts each week, youll be missing out on potential anti-aging body benefits if your schedule doesnt include yoga, weight training andrest.

Find out if youre making one of these eight common diet and exercise mistakes, and get smart prevention strategies that can keep you slim and youthful for years tocome.

The breakdown of sugars, called glycation, damages the collagen that keeps skin smooth and firm. To prevent this natural process from careening out of control, Dr. Naila Malik, a dermatologist in Southlake, Texas, sticks to low-glycemic carbs like whole grains. Theyre naturally low in sugar, and the body processes them slowly to limit the loss of collagen. If you want to sweeten up your tea or oatmeal without making your skin look older, try all-natural stevia. Its an easily digested herbal sweetener that doesnt trigger glycation, said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicholas Perricone, an adjunct professor of medicine at Michigan State Universitys College of HumanMedicine.

Taking your work angst out on the bike or treadmill might make you feel better for a little while, but incorporating yoga into your fitness routine regularly may help you look younger and prevent breakouts while whittling away stress. Sounds like a winning workout to us! Yoga moves like childs pose, downward-facing dog and sun salutations improve circulation the boost of oxygen is what gives skin that lovely yoga glow, said Dr. Hema Sundaram, a Washington, D.C.-area dermatologist. New research finds regular yoga practice may reduce the inflammation and stress that speed skin aging. If you need another reason to om away your stress: High levels of tension can spike hormone production that leads to breakouts or aggravates conditions like psoriasis. Controlling stress keeps your skin calm, said Dr. Annie Chiu, a dermatologist in LosAngeles.

Research suggests that green and black tea contain protective compounds like EGCG and theaflavins that help prevent skin cancers and the breakdown of collagen, the cause ofwrinkles.

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You think you’re healthy? Best intentions can spell bad news - Mon, 04 Feb 2013 PST

S. Fla. beckons for athletes seeking banned drugs

Athletes' never-ending quest for a competitive edge, loose regulation of medical clinics and even the lack of a state income tax have combined to make South Florida an alluring destination for professional sports figures in search of banned drugs to boost on-field performance.

Steroids, human growth hormone (HGH) and other performance-enhancing substances are illegal without a prescription, yet relatively easy to obtain in South Florida. Illicit drugs are readily available via supply routes originating in Latin America and at the anti-aging and wellness clinics that have sprouted here in the last decade, anti-doping experts tell the Sun Sentinel.

More baseball players than ever are flocking here during the off-season, people close to the game say, seeking warm weather, tax advantages and the area's many personal trainers and fitness facilities.

That confluence of athletes and access has made South Florida a fertile ground for drug abuse in sports.

Michael Straubel, a sports law professor at Valparaiso (Ind.) University Law School, called it a "perfect storm." Many knowledgeable local sports professionals agree.

"The ease of the drug thing here and the high-profile fitness community down here, that whole culture lends itself [to] athletes to do that type of thing," said former Miami Marlins Get your Marlins Tickets now! head athletic trainer Larry Starr, now a visiting professor at Nova Southeastern University in Davie. "This is where you want to train. This is where you want to be."

Growing concern among Major League Baseball officials that South Florida doctors, trainers and players had become a major source of performance-enhancing drugs spurred a probe last summer that now involves the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, sources told the Sun Sentinel. The Florida Attorney General's Office of Statewide Prosecution stands "ready to provide support if necessary," spokesman John Lucas said in a statement to the newspaper last week.

Baseball officials have given federal agents information on a number of South Florida trainers and doctors, including Miami physician Dr. Pedro Bosch and his son Anthony Bosch, who owns a now-closed Coral Gables-based anti-aging clinic, Biogenesis, the sources said.

Last week, another local publication, Miami New Times, claimed in a report that the clinic had been supplying performance-enhancing drugs, including testosterone, HGH and a substance known as IGF-1, to a client list that included six professional baseball players, two other pro athletes and an assistant baseball strength coach at the University of Miami.

New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez was among the athletes named in the report; he and others have vehemently denied involvement with the clinic or its owner. Through their lawyers, the Bosches also have denied any wrongdoing.

Original post:
S. Fla. beckons for athletes seeking banned drugs

South Florida now beckons for athletes seeking banned drugs

Athletes' never-ending quest for a competitive edge, loose regulation of medical clinics and even the lack of a state income tax have combined to make South Florida an alluring destination for professional sports figures in search of banned drugs to boost on-field performance.

Steroids, human growth hormone (HGH) and other performance-enhancing substances are illegal without a prescription, yet relatively easy to obtain in South Florida. Illicit drugs are readily available via supply routes originating in Latin America and at the anti-aging and wellness clinics that have sprouted here in the last decade, anti-doping experts tell the Sun Sentinel.

More baseball players than ever are flocking here during the off-season, people close to the game say, seeking warm weather, tax advantages and the area's many personal trainers and fitness facilities.

That confluence of athletes and access has made South Florida a fertile ground for drug abuse in sports.

Michael Straubel, a sports law professor at Valparaiso (Ind.) University Law School, called it a "perfect storm." Many knowledgeable local sports professionals agree.

"The ease of the drug thing here and the high-profile fitness community down here, that whole culture lends itself [to] athletes to do that type of thing," said former Miami Marlins Get your Marlins Tickets now! head athletic trainer Larry Starr, now a visiting professor at Nova Southeastern University in Davie. "This is where you want to train. This is where you want to be."

Growing concern among Major League Baseball officials that South Florida doctors, trainers and players had become a major source of performance-enhancing drugs spurred a probe last summer that now involves the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, sources told the Sun Sentinel. The Florida Attorney General's Office of Statewide Prosecution stands "ready to provide support if necessary," spokesman John Lucas said in a statement to the newspaper last week.

Baseball officials have given federal agents information on a number of South Florida trainers and doctors, including Miami physician Dr. Pedro Bosch and his son Anthony Bosch, who owns a now-closed Coral Gables-based anti-aging clinic, Biogenesis, the sources said.

Last week, another local publication, Miami New Times, claimed in a report that the clinic had been supplying performance-enhancing drugs, including testosterone, HGH and a substance known as IGF-1, to a client list that included six professional baseball players, two other pro athletes and an assistant baseball strength coach at the University of Miami.

New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez was among the athletes named in the report; he and others have vehemently denied involvement with the clinic or its owner. Through their lawyers, the Bosches also have denied any wrongdoing.

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South Florida now beckons for athletes seeking banned drugs

The Protein Klotho Paves The Way For Future Multiple Sclerosis Drugs

Editor's Choice Academic Journal Main Category: Multiple Sclerosis Also Included In: Alzheimer's / Dementia Article Date: 31 Jan 2013 - 11:00 PST

Current ratings for: The Protein Klotho Paves The Way For Future Multiple Sclerosis Drugs

5 (2 votes)

As people begin to age the levels of Klotho in the brain also begin to decrease. They published their findings online in Journal of Neuroscience.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition in which the myelin inside the brain and spinal cord becomes damaged, causing demyelination. This can cause the nerve cells in the brain to communicate inefficiently; this can lead to serious physical and cognitive disability.

Signs and symptoms of MS usually begin to appear in young adults; it is more prevalent among women.

The earliest signs of MS begin when the immune system attacks the protective myelin. The researchers found that the Klotho protein is able to produce the necessary proteins vital for the production and maintenance of a healthy myelin, which could reverse the damage caused by MS.

In an abstract in the journal authors said:

We found significant effects of Klotho on oligodendrocyte functions, including induced maturation of rat primary oligodendrocytic progenitor cells (OPCs) in vitro and myelination."

Lead author, Carmela Abraham, PhD, added: "These results taken together indicate that Klotho could become a drug target for multiple sclerosis and other white matter diseases, including AD."

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The Protein Klotho Paves The Way For Future Multiple Sclerosis Drugs

Toxins out, ‘superfoods’ in for year-round health

Some of you may have heard of juice cleanses and detox diets, and you may have even attempted one or another with varying success.

Beyonc gained notoriety when she lost weight drinking a combination of lemonade and cayenne pepper a tactic most health care professionals wouldnt recommend and the health market is saturated with seven-day green juice cleanses and smoothies that can be expensive and aim to help promote weight loss and rid the body of all sorts of toxins.

Superfoods

Avocados, which are high in vitamin C, thiamine and riboflavin. Beans, which contain B vitamins, calcium and potassium. They also contain folate, which helps maintain a healthy brain. Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, which are full of antioxidants that scientists believe help prevent and repair the stress that comes from oxidation, a natural process that occurs during normal cell function. Dairy-free chocolate, in moderate amounts, which elevates mood, lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. Make sure the dark chocolate is at least 70 percent cacao. Cruciferous vegetables, which are high in fiber, vitamins and minerals and include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, chard, kale, mustard greens, rutabagas and turnips. Spinach, a rich source of iron that has vitamins A and C. Walnuts, which have a large dose of omega 3 acids and the gamma-tocopherol form of vitamin E thats good for the heart.

Beneficial herbs and tea

Lemongrass works as an antifungal and antibacterial agent, as well as a diuretic and fever reducer. It also can settle upset stomachs and ease digestive problems. Cinnamon has been used as medicine throughout the world and can be used to fight colds and relieve indigestion and cramps. Rose contains many essential vitamins and can be used to detoxify kidneys. It is high in vitamin C and can calm the nerves. Lavender can be used to treat insomnia and restlessness. Jasmine tea can reduce the effects of free radicals and can be calming. Mint is known to soothe the stomach and peppermint helps stimulate digestion. Source: the Tea Smith

Recipes

Cleansing Vegetable Broth This powerful cleansing recipe not only cleans toxins from the body but also replenishes minerals in the body with its rich content of potassium and magnesium. It originates from India and is attributed to an Ayurvedic doctor. These leafy greens are also full of vitamin C, higher in beta-carotene than carrots and richer in iron and calcium than spinach.

Serves 8-10 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped 1 bunch kale, chopped 1 bunch mustard greens, chopped head white cabbage, chopped 1 bunch dandelion greens, chopped 1 cup Brussels sprouts, chopped 1 large daikon radish, diced 1 bunch watercress, chopped 4 ounces kombu or wakeme seaweed 6 dried shiitake mushrooms 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 leeks, sliced 1 fennel bulb, chopped 1 4-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped 1 teaspoon ground star anise 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped Chicken stock, as needed, optional Red chili flakes, optional

Put all of the ingredients into a large stockpot and fill it with enough water to cover vegetables but at least 2 inches below the rim of pot. Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil; reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for one hour. Using a mesh strainer, remove the vegetables and set aside. Continue cooking the broth for an additional 15 minutes to strengthen the flavor and reduce slightly. Let the broth cool completely in the pot before transferring to glass jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze in airtight plastic containers for up to one month. Reheat before serving. For cleansing and detoxification, consume 3 cups per day. Note: If you want to use the cooked vegetables, working in batches, puree them in a food processor or blender with just enough chicken stock to liqueify them and then transfer the puree to a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until warmed; ladle into bowls and garnish with chili flakes. Serve immediately. Recipe courtesy Dr. Maos Secrets of Longevity Cookbook, by Dr. Mao Shing Ni

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Toxins out, ‘superfoods’ in for year-round health

Dr. Carter of Atlanta, GA has been named a Patients' Choice Award Winner for 2012

ATLANTA, Jan. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Among the select few physicians honored with the prestigious Patients' Choice Award this year is Dr. Michael Carter.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130130/DC51286)

In fact, of the nation's 870,000 active physicians and dentists, just five percentconsistently received top scores from their patients on sites like Vitals (http://www.vitals.com), qualifying them for this honor in 2012.

Millions of patients go online each year to rate their doctors on various components of care, including accuracy of their diagnosis, the amount of time they spent with the doctor, and the doctor's bedside manner and follow-up care. Patients' Choice reviews these rankings and other quality measures to compile its yearly list of award winners.

Dr. Michael Carter commented on the recognition: "I'm so honored to receive an award that's based on how my patients view the quality of care I provide. I strive each day to exceed my patients' expectations, and I'm grateful that they've recognized my efforts."

About Michael Carter: a short profile by and about the honoree: Dr. Michael Carter is a board certified physician with a special focus on providing preventative medicine and minimally invasive cosmetic surgery. He is a member of: American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons, American Academy of Liposuction Surgeons, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Carter's focus is treating the entire body of the patient. In addition to being a skilled cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Carter emphasizes testing and the natural treatment of out of balance body organs that are most responsible for weight gain, fatigue, depression, gastrointestinal problems and female hormonal imbalances.

For more information on this Patients' Choice Award winner, please visit Dr. Michael Carter's profile on PatientsChoice.org.

Following the publication ofMichael Carter 's selection for thePatients' Choice Award,American Registry seconded the honor and addedDr. Carterto The Registry of Business Excellence. An exclusive recognition plaquehas been designed to commemorate the honor. The doctor's customwall plaque is shown here.

For more information on Dr. Michael Carter , located in Atlanta , GA , please call 770-450-0846, or visit http://www.atlanta-liposuction.com.

This press release was written by American Registry, LLC with approval by and/or contributions from Dr. Carter and was distributed by PR Newswire, a subsidiary of UBM plc.

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Dr. Carter of Atlanta, GA has been named a Patients' Choice Award Winner for 2012

Integrative, Metabolic and Functional Cardiovascular Medicine Presented by Mark Houston, MD – Video


Integrative, Metabolic and Functional Cardiovascular Medicine Presented by Mark Houston, MD
This webinar is a preview of Metabolic Cardiovascular Medicine certification, as part of the Fellowship in Anti-Aging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine, with the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. For more information visit http://www.a4m.com

By: A4MEvents

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Integrative, Metabolic and Functional Cardiovascular Medicine Presented by Mark Houston, MD - Video