Category: Featured Health Resources

Women’s Health


Natural Support For Healthy Hormone Balance

Although men and women are both susceptible to many of the same diseases, those areas of women’s health that pertain to the sex hormones and female sex organs can vary greatly from those of a man. Maintaining the correct balance of female sex hormones is one of the unique and most important aspect of women’s health.

Maintaining Hormone Balance

Normal weight is crucial to hormone balance. Fat cells manufacture estrogen. This can lead to an excess of estrogen in both men and women. Maintaining normal weight is important for balanced hormones. This is believed to be the reason that hormone-related cancers (breast, uterine, endometrial) are seen more frequently in overweight and obese women.

Although synthetic and horse-urine derived hormones have been the standard in conventional medicine for years, such forms of hormone replacement therapy are unsafe. Higher risk of heart disease and hormones-related cancers are the most worrisome side effects of conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Most holistic physicians prefer to use natural HRT (nHRT), an alternative that actually reduces the risk of heart disease, hormone related cancers, osteoporosis and premature aging.

Natural hormone replacement therapy is conducted by first performing a female hormone profile. Such testing of the entire complement of female hormones including estriol, estrone, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA is almost NEVER done in conventional medicine. Instead of using a “generic” prescription, the holistic physician can instead use the results of the female hormone profile to write a custom-tailored Rx. for each patient. These customized hormone prescriptions can be filled by a “compounding pharmacist,” meaning a pharmacist who specializes in making custom formulas.

Unlike convnetional HRT which uses high doses of estradiol and synthetic progesterone almost exclusively, nHRT typically encompasses all the sex hormones and in doses that attempt to duplicate the hormone pattern that a woman had in her younger years. This is a very different and much safer approach to hormone replacement therapy.

Short of consulting a physician, having a female hormone profile performed and getting a custom-tailored natural hormone prescription written, there are self-help measures that a woman can take to improve female hormone balance without hormone replacement.

Certain hormone-containing herbs have a balancing effect on the system. (See the following recommendations). It is HIGHLY INADVISABLE to take actual hormone supplements, even if they are sold without a prescription, without the advice and laboratory testing that a doctor can offer. Such hormones, available without prescription, include DHEA and progesterone. [NOTE: Many health food store brands of progesterone creams do not contain any hormone, and the body cannot convert wild yam (dioscorea) into progesterone, no matter how much the lady at the health food store argues otherwise! In natural medical circles, we call this “The Yam Scam”!]

Also remember that other non-hormone factors can create imbalances in the sex hormones. An excess or deficiency of thyroid hormone will change sex hormone levels, and no amount of sex hormone replacement will correct the problem until the thyroid function has been compensated for. Sluggish liver function has a major impact on hormone balance because the liver “processes” and converts sex hormones to forms that can be eliminated from the body.

Those seeking self-help measures should try the following approach to hormone balance. If symptoms persist (hot flashes, depression, loss of libido, skin aging, bone loss, elevated cholesterol or heart disease), then consultation with an holistic physician and determination of a customized natural hormone Rx. should be considered.

Click here for more information about Menopause

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Diet: eat a diet high in nutrient-rich foods.
  • Increase consumption of soy products (if tolerated).
  • Achieve and maintain a normal weight.
  • Don’t smoke! The climacteric (menopause) occurs sooner in people who smoke.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi, 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals.
    OR
  • MyPacks, one packet per day with a meal.
  • Cal-Mag Amino: as needed to increase calcium intake to 1,500mg per day (post menopausal only). If taking Maxi Multi with a total of 1,000 mg per day of calcium, take an additional 3 capsules of Cal-Mag Amino daily.
  • Easy Soy Gold: 1 tablet, once per day with breakfast. [Target dose: 100mg or more of soy isoflavones; 50-100mg or more of genisteins].
  • Milk Thistle Plus+: 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals.
  • Melatonin: 3mg at bedtime.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

For Hot Flashes:

  • Black Cohosh Plus+: 1-2 capsules, 3 times per day as needed. When symptoms improve, decrease the dose to the smallest amount needed to continue feeling well.
    AND
  • Vitamin E: Take an additional 400IU per day extra with meals. (Maxi Multi contains 400IU per day). [Target dose: 800IU per day].
    OR
  • DHEA: 25 mg with breakfast. Higher doses might be needed, but it is inadvisable to take higher than 25mg per day without first obtaining a female hormone profile. See “Dr. Myatt’s Comment” below.
    OR
  • Hormone replacement creams or natural prescriptions as recommended by your holistic physician.

DR. MYATTS COMMENT: Hormone tests can take the guesswork out of hormone balancing and make correction surer and safer. If you do not see noticeable improvement in six to twelve weeks with self-help measures, consider consulting myself or another holistically-oriented physician. Youthful hormone balance is one of the best health and longevity measures you can take! 

 

Vitamins and Mineral Supplements

Your Concise Guide To Nutritional Supplements

Definitions

Vitamins are organic compounds that are necessary for human life and health. Vitamins cannot be manufactured in the body (vitamin B12 is an exception) and so must be obtained from diet.

Minerals are inorganic ions (metals) that are also necessary for life and health. Minerals are not manufactured in the body and so must be obtained from diet.

Trace minerals are minerals necessary to the body in extremely small, or “trace,” amounts.

Accessory nutrients are substances that are not absolutely necessary for life and health (as vitamins and minerals are), but that participate with vitamins and minerals in numerous biochemical reactions.

Vitamins: What You Should be Taking, and Why

Taking vitamins is a wise health and prevention measure. Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals cause many diseases. Adding vitamins and minerals in supplemental form is an inexpensive “insurance policy” against some of the worst diseases of modern times.

A deficiency of vitamins and minerals are associated with these diseases:

A deficiency of antioxidant vitamins and minerals (especially beta carotene, vitamins C & E, and selenium) is associated with higher incidence of cancers of the colon, breast, prostate, mouth, lungs and skin. Some researchers believe that antioxidant vitamin and mineral deficiencies may be related to higher incidence of all cancers.

A mineral deficiency, especially magnesium and potassium but also calcium, is associated with high blood pressure.

Deficiencies of vitamins E, C, B6, B12, folic acid (a B vitamin), and bioflavonoids are associated with cardiovascular disease. The connection between vitamin E and heart health is so well established that conventional medical cardiologists are instructed to recommend vitamin E to their patients.

Healthy bones, and the prevention of osteoporosis, depend on sufficient levels of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, boron, zinc, copper, B vitamins, and vitamin D.

In males, benign prostatic hypertrophy is associated with decreased levels of zinc. Zinc deficiency also correlates to decreased immune function. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and diabetes (high blood sugar) occur more frequently in people who are chromium deficient. After diabetes is present, low levels of vitamins A, C, E, plus zinc, selenium, choline, bioflavonoids and B complex vitamins are associated with more complications from the disease.

This list could go on for pages, but you get the idea. A deficiencyof key vitamins and mineralsare correlated with disease. Such vitamin deficiencies are also common in the modern American diet. Depleted soils result in lowered vitamin and mineral content in produce AND Americans eat less fresh produce than ever before. Much of our food is highly processed, removing not only vitamins and minerals but also fiber and enzymes.

The best health insurance may not be an expensive medical policy, but the addition of sufficient vitamins to fill in the gaps in our day-to-day nutritional status.

Some people take a wide array of individual and/or exotic supplements, but these should NOT replace a basic, healthful level of vitamin supplementation. I have listed the best and most complete formulas for basic multiple vitamin and mineral supplementation. I recommend this for all adults over age 18. If you have a special medical condition, consult an holistic physician for further recommendations. (See Telephone Consultations with Dr. Myatt)

Basic Vitamins and Minerals Supplement Program (For health maintenance in healthy individuals OR as the basis of a health program in those with known health problems). 1) Multi Vitamin / Mineral formula without iron (unless your doctor has specifically told you to take iron). There is no such thing as a good multiple vitamin supplement in a single pill. Optimal daily dosage levels of essential vitamins and minerals do not fit into one tablet or capsule. Expect to be taking 6 to 9 capsules or tablets to fulfill Optimal Daily Doses of key vitamins.

Modern Dietetics In A Nutshell

Nutritional Deficiencies

It has long been recognized that the human body will not function efficiently without vitamins and minerals. In fact, serious diseases and death result when nutrient levels become too low. Because vitamins and minerals are necessary for every chemical reaction in the body, an excess or deficiency can greatly alter physical function.

“RDA’s” (nutrient levels recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture) are sufficient to prevent serious deficiency-caused illnesses. (Rickets due to vitamin D deficiency, for example). They are not sufficient for optimal health and well-being.

Many scientists today agree that higher levels of certain nutrients are necessary to protect us from disease. It is also an accepted fact that even small deficiencies of nutrients can result in a decline in physical health, often before modern medicine can name a “disease.” Such deficiencies are called “subclinical,” (meaning “before they are a diagnosable illness”) and are the precursors to more serious illness.

The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) is typically excessive in calories while being deficient in vitamins, minerals, and accessory nutrients. This is probably due to several factors: easy availability of refined-flour, high sugar foods; extensive processing of foods (which removes nutrients and fiber); and plant foods grown in mineral-deficient soils.

In addition, increased environmental exposure to toxic substances increases the body’s need for certain nutrients, especially antioxidants. (See Antioxidants.)

To ensure that you are obtaining optimal dietary nutrient levels, examine your current diet in view of the vitamin/mineral/accessory nutrient guide below. Keep a three-day diet diary to assist in calculating your baseline level of nutrient intake. Then, make dietary changes and take nutritional supplements as needed to ensure daily optimal nutrient intake.

Which Vitamin Formula is Right For You?

If you are a: Multiple Formula Antioxidants Comments Man Maxi Multi OR Once Daily MyPacks Included in Maxi Multi and MyPacks A separate antioxidant is usually needed with other multiples, not with these. Woman of Childbearing Age Nutrizyme with iron (see comment) OR Once Daily MyPacks Included in Maxi Multi and MyPacks Take a multiple WITH iron if you have heavy menstrual flow. Post-Menopausal Woman Maxi Multi OR Once Daily MyPacks Included in Maxi Multi and MyPacks Take additional Cal-Mag Amino to total 1200-1500 mg calcium per day if you are at risk for Osteoporosis. Senior Maxi Multi OR Nutrizyme with iron (see comments) Included in Maxi Multi and MyPacks Take a formula with iron only if directed to do so by your doctor. Children Children’s Multi-Vitamin and Minerals Children’s Antioxidants Specially formulated for children ages 4-12.

Vitamins

vitamin major functions major deficiency associations optimal adult dose range best food sources cautions/
notes vitamin A bone formation
skin health vision night blindness, dry eyes,
skin diseases 5,000-10,000 IU fish liver oils Do not take more than 50,000 IU per day for 3 months without medical supervision.

beta-carotene

converted to vitamin A in the body; antioxidant ulcerative colitis, skin diseases, smoking 10,000-50,000 IU green and yellow vegetables; carrots Use only natural beta-carotene; high doses may cause yellow skin (harmless).

vitamin D

increases calcium absorption;
decreases overall mortality rate osteoporosis, rheumatic pains, dental disease,
cancer,
impaired immunity 800-5,000 IU or as
directed by a physician. SUNSHINE! fish liver oil egg yolk The current daily dose of 400IU may be be set too low for optimal health.

vitamin E (tocopherol)

cellular respiration; antioxidant heart disease neurological aging 200-800 IU wheat germ oil, nuts, whole grains, egg yolk Doses over
800 IU day may elevate triglycerides.

vitamin K

blood clotting factor; bone formation osteoporosis 20-100 mcg broccoli, spinach, green tea, green cabbage, tomato Do not supplement if you are on anti-epileptic medication.

vitamin C

collagen synthesis, anti-viral, wound healing, antioxidant joint pain/arthritis, atherosclerosis, bleeding gums, decreased immunity 300-3,000 mg broccoli, red pepper, citrus fruits, cabbage At high doses, vitamin C will loosen the bowels.

vitamin B1 (thiamine)

energy processes fatigue, mental confusion, neuropathy 5-100 mg eggs, berries, nuts, legumes, liver, yeast Nontoxic.

vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

energy processes, wound healing, activates other B vitamins infection, cataracts, blurred vision, eye surgery 5-100 mg green leafy vegetables, eggs, organ meats Nontoxic. Higher doses will make urine a harmless, bright yellow.

vitamin B3 (niacin)

energy processes depression, tension headaches, memory loss 20-100 mg milk, eggs, fish, whole meal wheat flour Doses greater than 50mg may cause a skin flush. Take high doses only with doctors supervision.

vitamin B5(pantothenic acid)

energy processes; adrenal gland function allergies, morning stiffness; fatigue; muscle cramps 10-1,000 mg eggs, yeast, liver No known toxicity.

vitamin B6(pyridoxine)

energy processes; antibody formation insomnia, irritability, atherosclerosis 5-200 mg wheat germ, yeast, whole grains Oral contraceptive use increases need for this vitamin.

Folic acid

red blood cell formation, RNA/DNA synthesis fatigue, depression, atherosclerosis 200-800 mcg beans, green leafy veggies, yeast Do not take with Phenobarbital or dilantin.

vitamin B12

red blood cell formation; energy processes atherosclerosis, memory loss, GI symptoms 10-1,200 mcg fermented soy products; root veggies Nontoxic.

Biotin

energy processes; blood sugar regulation muscle pain, depression 300-600 mcg egg yolks, whole wheat No known toxicity.

Minerals

Mineral: functions deficiency associations adult dose range food sources cautions

*Calcium

bone & tooth formation; heart & muscle function osteoporosis, bone spurs, muscle cramps, rheumatism 200-1500 mg barley, kale, unrefined grains; milk, green veggies Prolonged excess may cause a mineral imbalance.

*Magnesium

energy processes, nerve function, enzyme activation stress, senility, osteoporosis, insomnia 150-600 mg avocados, almonds, whole grains, grapefruit Doses over 400 mg can cause diarrhea in some people.

Potassium

pH balance, nerve function stress, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure 1800-5625* mg * a normal diet should contain sufficient potassium potato peel, bananas, beans, almonds, whole grains Do not take high supplemental doses (food Sources are O.K.) when taking heart medicine without physician guidance.

Sodium

pH balance, nerve function Excess is more common and is assoc with high blood pressure limit daily intake to 1,500 mg okra, celery, black mission figs Very few people (athletes, diarrhea /vomiting) need to supplement.

Phosphorus

energy production, bones/teeth, B Vit. activation tooth/gum disorders, impotence, equilibrium 300-600 mg barley, beans, fish, lentils, dark green veggies Prolonged, large doses can cause calcium deficiency or mineral imbalance.

Iron

Red Blood cell production dizziness, depression, anemia 10-30 mg blackberries, cherries, spinach Do NOT take iron unless told to do so by your doctor. Iron excess is associated with health problems.

*Zinc

co-factor in numerous metabolic processes prostate enlargement, immune deficiency; atherosclerosis 15-50 mg wheat germ, wheat bran, pumpkin seed, avocado, sea food Large doses (50mg, day) can cause a copper deficiency & other mineral imbalances.

*Copper

Red blood cell production; skeletal, heart & muscle function osteoporosis, digestive function, nerve disorders 2-3 mg green leafy veggies, almonds, beans, sea food Higher doses can be toxic.

*Manganese

glandular function, bone & ligament health  diabetes, asthma, digestive disturbance 2-10 mg nuts, seeds, avocados, grapefruit, apricots High doses may create other mineral imbalances.

*Chromium

glucose metabolism; blood sugar regulation; heart function atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypoglycemia, high cholesterol, overweight 200-500 mcg whole grain cereals, molasses, meat, yeast Nontoxic at therapeutic levels.

*Selenium

antioxidant, synergistic with vitamin E cancer prevention; aging 100-200 mcg bran, whole grains, tuna, broccoli, onion Prolonged excess may be toxic. * indicates minerals most often deficient in the diet. Other minerals not marked with a * usually do not need to be supplemented. Other minerals and trace minerals include: molybdenum, flourine, chlorine, cobalt, silicon, boron, sulphur, vanadium

ACCESSORY NUTRIENTS

Bioflavonoids – compounds found in most plants in association with vitamin C. Bioflavonoids are potent antioxidants. Higher dietary levels are useful in heart disease and atherosclerosis, bleeding gums, weak immune system, inflammation, varicose veins, hayfever.

CoQ10 – (ubiquinone) A naturally-occurring compound in the human body that is a vital co-factor in energy production. Conditions benefited by increased CoQ10 levels include: cardiovascular disease, angina, congestive heart failure, mitral valve prolapse, immune deficiency, obesity, diabetes, periodontal disease, cancer, muscular dystrophy. Also use in longevity and rejuvenation programs.

Fiber – Plant cell walls present in whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. This part of the plant is usually lost in processing. Fiber deficiency is associated with numerous illnesses: obesity, atherosclerosis, diabetes, gallstones, varicose veins, constipation, diverticulosis, irritable bowel, colon cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

FOS (fructooligosaccharides) Naturally- occurring sugar-like substances that act as food to friendly GI bacteria. In human body cells, this substance is not utilized as energy (or as a true sugar), but to probiotic gut bacteria, FOS is a banquet. The addition of FOS to probiotic formulas (as in Enterogenic concentrate, product # 218), helps good bacteria re-colonize the GI tract faster and more plentifully.

Friendly bacteria – (probiotics) The naturally-occurring bacteria of the colon help protect us from many conditions, including candidiasis, allergies, constipation, B12 vitamin deficiency. These good bacteria are damaged or destroyed by dietary imbalances, antibiotic and other drug use. Replacement of good bacteria results in improved colon function.

Glucosamine sulfate – A naturally occurring substance that has been found to be highly effective in treating osteoarthritis. It acts both to reduce pain and to stimulate joint repair.

5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan-(5-HTP)
5-HTP is the intermediate metabolite of the amino acid L-tryptophan. This amino acid intermediate participates in the body’s production of serotonin. It also stimulates increased endorphin, melatonin, norepinephrine and dopamine production. These brain chemicals (neuro-transmitters) help increase energy, improve mood and sleep, and decrease appetite. Useful for insomnia, mood disorder (anxiety/depression) and weight loss programs.

L-Carnitine – an amino acid that is crucial to normal energy production and fat metabolism. Carnitine has been shown to benefit atherosclerotic heart disease and high cholesterol and triglycerides. Improves fat metabolism throughout the body.

L-Glutathione – A tri peptide (3 amino acids) that acts as a potent antioxidant in the body. Supplementation is useful in allergies, cancer prevention, liver detoxification, cataracts, heavy metal toxicity, longevity and rejuvenation.

Omega-3 Oils are derived from fatty fish and flax seeds. These fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and have a positive effect on cardiovascular disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure, allergic and inflammatory conditions (including psoriasis and eczema), autoimmune diseases, cancer, neurological disease, menopause, general health enhancement.

Omega-6 Oils found in evening primrose, black currant, borage and a number of vegetable oils. Although supplementation is popular, these oils increase arachadonic acid levels (an inflammatory substance). Only diabetics need to supplement very small doses of this oil. (less than 500mg/day).

Mood Disorder

(Depression / Anxiety / Stress)

Depression and anxiety are two terms used to describe a variety of mood disorders. Although these two moods seem like opposites, depression and anxiety often occur together. Symptoms of depression and anxiety can include any of the following: chronic fatigue, insomnia, irritability, loss of appetite or increased appetite, headaches, backaches, inability to concentrate, memory loss, constipation or diarrhea, disinterest in sex, inability to make decisions, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, feeling “blue,” suicidal thoughts. In fact, a mood disorder can cause symptoms in virtually any part of the body. (I recommend my Body/Mind Connection video for a full discussion on this).

Nearly everyone suffers from some of these difficulties some time. External events can cause a person to feel depressed or anxious. Loss of a loved one is an example of a “trigger” event that can cause these symptoms. In mood disorders, there may not be identifiable “triggers” for the anxiety or depression. Even where there is an identifiable “trigger” event, the feelings of anxiety or depression are often overwhelming and persistent.

There are as many causes of the disorder as there are symptoms. Nutritional deficiencies, blood sugar imbalances (hypoglycemia or diabetes), poor diet, hormone imbalances, physical inactivity, prescription or over-the-counter drugs, allergies, and serious illnesses can all trigger anxiety/depression. Mood disorder is also a symptom of age-related memory change. In addition, there may be mental patterns (habits and behaviors) that magnify the problem.

Because there are many physical imbalances that can cause or contribute to mood disorder, it is important to get a thorough medical evaluation. The physician who performs your physical exam may recommend evaluation by a psychiatrist who can give your disorder a diagnostic name and advise you of conventional medical and counseling options available. You may also want to consult an holistic medical practitioner who can help you explore the various causes of mood disorder and offer you options to conventional drug treatment.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Don’t smoke! Smoke contains carbon monoxide which is toxic to the brain.
  • Eat a nutritious diet. Nutrient deficiencies cause decreases in brain chemicals (neurohormones).
  • Be sure that you are evaluated for hypoglycemia and food allergy. Both are common causes of mood disorder. The Super Fast Diet, a low carbohydrate diet, corrects hypoglycemia quickly and reliably.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise stimulates the production of the body’s natural “feel good” hormones called endorphins. Exercise also helps normalize blood sugar levels.
  • Practice stress reduction techniques and emotional re-education. Negative thought habits can cause or aggravate anxiety and depression.
  • Do not use stimulants: caffeine, nicotine, alcohol or recreational drugs.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of vitamin B complex vitamins and the minerals calcium and magnesium are particularly important, but a deficiency of any nutrient can cause alterations in neurotransmitter (brain chemical) production and mood.
  • Omega 3 fatty acids:
    Flax seed meal, 2 teaspoons per day with food
    OR
    Flax seed capsules: 2-4 caps, 3 times per day (target dose range: 6-12 caps per day)
    OR
    Flax seed oil: 1 tablespoon per day
    OR
    Max EPA (Omega-3 rich fish oil): 1-2 caps, 3 times per day with meals (target dose: 3-6 caps per day).
  • Melatonin: this hormone decreases with age. It is a potent antioxidant and one of the only ones to cross the blood-brain barrier. It should be used in almost all cases of mood disorder and is an important part of longevity and anti-aging programs. Melatonin helps to regulate Circadian rhythms and is an “anti stress” hormone.
  • L-5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan) 100 mg: 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals. Dosage may be increased to 2 caps, 3 times per day after 2 weeks if response is inadequate. L-5-HTP is a neurotransmitter precursor and antidepressant.
    AND/OR
  • Hypericum (St. John’s Wort): 1 cap (300mg), 2-3 times per day. (target dose 900mg per day)
    [NOTE: Do not take Hypericum or 5-HTP if you are on a prescription drug for mood disorder and DO NOT discontinue prescription antidepressants without the advice of a physician. Some antidepressants can cause serious side effects if suddenly discontinued].
  • L-5-HTP and St. John’s Wort can be taken together in more resistant depressions, but this should be done with the help of an holistic physician. I am available for telephone consultations.

Additional Support

For anxiety:

  • Magnesium: 1 tab, 3-5 times per day (target dose: 300-500 mg per day.) NOTE: Maxi Multi contains 500mg of magnesium. If taking Muaxi Multi as your multiple, additional magnesium supplementation is unnecessary.

For depression:

  • SAMe: 400mg, 4 times daily.

For depression in the elderly:

Man Health


Natural Strategies For Maintaining Male Health

Although men and women are both susceptible to many of the same diseases, those areas of men’s health that pertain to the sex hormones and male sex organs vary greatly from those of a woman. Correct balance of male sex hormones is one of the most important aspect of a man’s health.

Maintaining Youthful Hormone Balance

Myth: only women go through menopause (a decrease in production of sex hormones).

Fact: Both men and women have decreased hormone outputs with advancing age, but the decrease is not as rapid in men as it is in women. Men may have hot flashes, psychogenic changes, bone mineral loss, decreased libido and/or sexual function, weight gain, depression and other symptoms identical to the female menopause.

Normal weight is crucial to hormone balance. Fat cells manufacture estrogen. This can lead to an excess of estrogen in men. Ever see a man with a beer belly and breast-buds? (Female-like development of breasts)? This is caused by an estrogen excess made by the fat cells. Maintaining normal weight is important for balanced sex hormones. Perhaps this is the reason that overweight and obese men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hypertrophy.

In males, higher levels of dihydrotestosterone, a hormone derived from testosterone, is associated with benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) and possibly prostate cancer. Increased levels of estrogens in males also appear to play a role in the development of BPH.

Other non-sex-hormone factors can create imbalances in the sex hormones. An excess or deficiency of thyroid hormone will change sex hormone levels, and no amount of sex hormone replacement will correct the problem until the thyroid function has been compensated for. Changes in liver function cause a shift in the relative amounts of various hormones. That is because the liver processes most sex hormones. I have found many menopausal-aged people, both men and women, who still had normal or even high levels of the circulating sex hormones. Additional mammalian hormones in this instance are inadvisable, because they can create an excess of hormones with the attendant problems.

Self-Help for Hormone Balance

Without a laboratory test, it is difficult to know exactly which hormones are out of balance and by how much. If you are truly interested in preventing the age-related changes that occur with diminished sex hormones, then laboratory testing and personal consultation is advised. Still, there are some good self help measures that you can take.

First, remember that overall good health is critical to the body’s production of hormones. Inadequate nutrients from diet is a major factor in hormone imbalance. Excesses of certain foodstuffs, especially alcohol, refined carbohydrates (sugars), and “trans” fats can all change hormone levels for the worst.

Faulty liver function, as evidenced by high cholesterol levels, contributes to inadequate transformation of hormones. Improving liver function is a key step in normalizing hormones and the body’s response to hormones. (It is possible to have adequate hormone levels and still have symptoms of deficiency or excess if the liver is not working properly).

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Diet: eat a nutritious diet high in nutrient-rich foods.
  • Increase consumption of soy products.
  • Achieve and maintain a normal weight.
  • Exercise regularly. 30 minutes, 3 times per week minimum. Running is especially valuable for improving and maintaining erectile function in men!
  • Don’t smoke! The climacteric (menopause) occurs sooner in people who smoke.

PRIMARY SUPPORT

  • BASIC Program such as Maxi Multi’s or Once Daily My Pack  (Multivitamin/mineral supplement with extra antioxidants)
  • Flax Oil l to 2 Caps, 3 times per day with meals.
  • DHEA: 2 caps (25mg) with breakfast. This is a conservative dose for a male. Higher doses might be needed, but it is inadvisable to take higher than 50mg per day without first obtaining a hormone profile. See “Dr. Myatt’s Comment” below.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

For Erectile Dysfunction (ED):

For Libido:

For Prostate Health:

  • Saw Palmetto: 1 cap, 2 times per day. This may be increased to 3 times per day if symptoms of BPH are present.

AND

OR

  • Saw Palmetto/Pygeum Plus+: 1-2 capsules, 2 times per day with meals.

ALSO:

Support any organ system that scored high on the Self-Health Questionnaire (see page 6-8 in the Holistic Health Handbook)

DR. MYATT’S COMMENT:

Hormone testing takes the guesswork out of hormone balancing and make correction surer and safer. If you do not see noticeable improvement in six to twelve weeks with self-help measures, consider consulting myself or another holistically-oriented physician. Youthful hormone balance is one of the best health and longevity measures you can take! 

 

Herbs

Important Information About These Natural Remedies

 Herbs for Health and Healing

How Herbs Work
Herbs regulate, cleanse, and nourish the human body. They may have specific effects on physical function, but herbs also nourish and balance many parts of the body at one time. Why to Use Herbs
Because they balance the body, herbs treat the cause of disease, not just the symptoms. When used with knowledge, herbs are far safer than most pharmaceutical drugs. Herb Tinctures are alcohol or vinegar extractions of herbs. They are more concentrated than teas and Capsules (unless standardized) depending on their method of preparation. They can be taken alone, added to teas, or used in poultices. Herb Capsules/Tablets consist of dried herb material. They may consist of the unadulterated herbs OR they may be standardized according to the concentration of a particular ingredient. These herbs are designed to be taken internally. Dosing for herbs: General ADULT guidelines for dosing herbs:
Tinctures: 30-40 drops, 2-4 times per day, taken in water.
Caps: 1-2 Caps, 2-4 times per day.
Teas: 1 tea bag/1 teaspoon herb per cup water. 1-3 cups per day.

Children have smaller dose requirements than adults. The basic formula for determining a child’s dose is: age ÷ (age + 12). The resulting number equals the portion of an adult dose to give. For example, the correct dose for a 6-year-old would be 6 ÷ 18 = one-third of an adult dose.

If PREGNANT, consult an holistically-trained physician before using herbs. Not all herbs are safe during pregnancy.

Twelve Important Herbs to Know

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Actions: Potent antioxidant; strengthens/stabilizes veins USES: Atherosclerosis; cataracts; diabetes mellitus; neuralgia and neuropathy; retinopathy; varicose veins; macular degeneration NOTE: Bilberry has a special affinity for the eyes.

Bromelain (Ananas comosus) a.k.a. Pineapple
Actions: Anti-inflammatory; dissolves mucous; protein digestant USES: Atherosclerosis; inflammation (all types); infection (all types); sinusitis; sports injuries; wound healing.

Curcumin (Curcuma longa) a.k.a. Turmeric
Actions: Potent antioxidant (highest antioxidant rating); anti-inflammatory; liver protectant; anti-cancer; anti-tumor USES: Allergies; arthritis; atherosclerosis; autoimmune disease; cancer; gallbladder disease; hepatitis; high cholesterol; inflammation; rheumatoid arthritis.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Actions: Adaptogenic (helps the body adapt and work under physical and mental stress); tonic; mild stimulant USES: Stress adaptation; fatigue; depression; rejuvenation; athletic performance; enhancing physical performance.

Grape Seed Extract (Vitis vinifera) a.k.a. pycnogenols
Actions: Potent antioxidant; protects collagen from destruction; anti-inflammatory USES: Atherosclerosis; diabetes mellitus; easy bruising; macular degeneration; varicose veins; stroke prevention; retinopathy; skin rejuvenation.

Hawthorne (Cratageus oxycantha)
Actions: Cardiovascular tonic; adrenal tonic; anti-atherosclerotic; high in bioflavonoids USES: Heart disease of all types: atherosclerosis, arrhythmia, palpitations, high or low blood pressure, congestive heart failure; peripheral vascular disease.

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia or purpura)
Actions: Immune stimulant; immune modulating (balances the immune system); anti-viral; anti-bacterial USES: Infections of every type ; immunosuppression (AIDS/HIV/EBV); cancer; Candidiasis. NOTE: Use short-term to bolster the immune system.

Garlic (Allium sativa)
Actions: Broad-spectrum anti-microbial: effective against bacteria, viruses, worms, fungi; anti-atherosclerotic; cardiovascular tonic USES: Infections, parasites, Candidiasis; atherosclerosis; high blood pressure; high cholesterol; diabetes; allergy; AIDS; immune suppression; cancer and cancer prevention.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Actions: Increased blood flow to the brain and extremities; stimulates neurotransmitters (brain hormones); potent antioxidant with nervous system affinity USES: Impotence; neuralgia and neuropathy; Age-related memory, eyesight, and hearing changes; atherosclerosis; allergy; depression ; retinopathy; diabetes mellitus; Raynauds disease.

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
Actions: (Protects the liver from the effects of toxins); antioxidant USES: Environmental exposure to toxins; hepatitis; drug, alcohol or nicotine use; gallbladder disease; detoxification; daily life!

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens or serrulata)
Actions: inhibits dihydrotestosterone (the hormone that causes the male prostate gland to enlarge); tonic to the neck of the bladder; reproductive organ tonic (male and female) USES: benign prostate enlargement; low libido and impotence (male and female); painful menstrual periods; urinary incontinence (male and female); polycystic ovaries

St. Johns Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Actions: Anti-depressant; anti-viral; relieves pain USES: Depression; anxiety; insomnia; neuralgia; immune suppression (AIDS/HIV/Epstein-Barr virus); chronic hepatitis.

More Useful Herbs to Know

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
Actions: Liver protective properties (similar to milk thistle); bile secretion USES: Liver protection; liver disease; gallbladder disease.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
Actions: Immune stimulant; adaptogenic; vasodilator; anti-viral USES: Tonic and endurance remedy; immune stimulant (not an acute remedy, like Echinacea, but for long-term use to improve immune function); night sweats.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
Actions: Antispasmodic; anti-inflammatory; slight estrogenic effect; nervine USES: Muscle pain ; arthritis; rheumatism; back pain; menstrual cramps; nervous tension. NOTE: high doses can cause headache.

Cayenne (Capsicum frutescense)
Actions: Circulatory stimulant; digestant; tonic; anti-atherosclerotic USES: Atherosclerosis; poor circulation; shock; hemorrhage; heart attack; “synergistic” with many herbs. Cayenne is the premier circulatory stimulant herb.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Actions Anti-inflammatory; anti-spasmodic; carminative (counters gas); anti bacterial; nervine USES: Stomach complaints: colitis, intestinal spasm, colic (good for colic in babies, too: use in tea form); respiratory infections; wound healing; anxiety; restlessness.

Chlorella (Chlorella pyrenoidosa)
Actions: Detoxifier; high in minerals and phytonutrients USES: Detoxification; heavy metal toxicity; blood building; general antioxidant protection; intestinal detoxification.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Actions: Nutritive (high in minerals); diuretic; tonic; liver-protective USES: skin disease; liver disease; anemia; water retention ; CHF; fatigue; arthritis.

Ginger (Zingiber officianle)
Actions: Anti-emetic; digestant; circulatory stimulant; anti-inflammatory; antiseptic. [Curcuma longa (tumeric) is a close relative] USES: nausea and motion sickness; morning sickness; high blood pressure and atherosclerosis; digestive upsets, gas, and colic; colds, flu, and fever.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Actions: Anti-microbial; anti-parasidal; GI tonic; laxative; immune stimulant. USES: Infections of all kinds; infectious diarrhea; skin diseases; conjunctivitis; candidiasis; intestinal toxemia; intestinal parasites.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)
Actions: Antispasmodic; nervine; GI tonic; anodyne (relieves pain); estrogenic effects. Uses: Menopause; insomnia; nervous tension headache; anxiety; intestinal cramps; neuralgia.

Kava Kava (Piper methysticum)
Actions: Stimulant; tonic; anti-anxiety; sleep-inducer USES: Anxiety ; arthritic conditions; chronic pain; insomnia.

Nettles (Urtica dioica)
Actions: Nutritive; tonic; detoxifying; encourages the removal of excess tissue acids USES: Acne; allergies & hayfever; arthritis; eczema; general detoxification.

Reishi (Ganoderma) & Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) Mushroom
Actions: Immune stimulants; anti-tumor activity USES: General immune tonic; cancer and cancer prevention.

White Willow (Salix alba)
Actions: Anti-inflammatory (contains salicin, a natural form of aspirin) Uses: rheumatism; arthritis; headache; fever; musculoskeletal aches and pains.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)
Actions: Antispasmodic; anti-inflammatory; hormone-enhancing effects; [Chinese herbology: chi (energy) tonic] Uses: Flatulence; intestinal colic; gallstone colic; arthritis (rheumatoid and osteo); urinary tract infections; muscle strain; poor circulation; neuralgia; menopause; uterine cramping; general energy tonic.

Diabetes (Adult Type II)

Natural Support To Prevent And Reverse This Condition

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition of abnormally high fasting blood sugar (above 126mg/dl) measured on two separate occasions.

Type I diabetes is caused by a destruction of pancreatic cells that produce insulin. It is a more serious condition, and more difficult to control, than type II.

Type II diabetes is related to Western diet and lifestyle and can almost always be controlled by diet and lifestyle changes alone.

A less recognized form of diabetes is Type 1.5 which may combine features of both Type I and Type II with some loss of endogenous insulin production as well as reduced sensitivity to available insulin. This type also responds very well to dietary and lifestyle changes and supplementation.

Uncontrolled diabetes (blood sugars that continue to go above the normal 120mg/dl) result in a four-fold increased risk of atherosclerotic heart disease and a five-fold increased risk of stroke. Diabetes also increases the risk of nerve damage leading to eye disease, peripheral neuropathy (nerve disorder), increased risk of infection, and compromised circulation sometimes resulting in gangrene. Persistent high blood sugar levels can stress and damage kidney (renal) function.

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Diet: work with an alternative medicine physician to discover optimal diet. High carbohydrate, low calorie diets are often prescribed for diabetics, but low carbohydrate diets have been shown to work much better for most type II diabetics. A special version of the ketogenic diet — what Dr. Myatt calls “The Ketone Zone” — works fast and reliably to reverse DM. Individual guidance in diet will almost always correct Type II DM and help control Type 1.5 DM.
  • Maintain a normal weight. Overweight makes the body resistant to its own insulin. A low carbohydrate diet will reduce weight quickly and even modest weight loss helps significantly with blood sugar control.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise improves the body’s response to insulin, decreases blood sugar levels, normalizes weight and improves circulation.
  • Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily. Adequate water intake has a wide number of health benefits and specific to diabetes these include improved blood sugar regulation and improved liver and kidney function.

Primary Support

  1. Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidants (ACES), B complex vitamins, magnesium, chromium, vanadium and bioflavonoids are particularly important in correcting diabetes and preventing the damage that diabetes causes. Chromium picolinate is known to help improve insulin sensitivity.
  2. Omega 3 fatty acids – any or all of these:
    Flax seed meal, 2 teaspoons per day with food
    Flax seed oil capsules: 2-4 caps, 3 times per day
    Flax seed oil: 1 tablespoon per day
    MaxiMarine O3 (Omega-3 rich fish oil): 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals. Omega 3 deficiency contributes to insulin resistance and supplementation can reverse it.
    Diabetes increases cardiovascular risk factors in part through the inflammatory action of abnormally high blood sugars. O3 fatty acids have a potent anti-inflammatory effect. The Essential Fatty Acids are SO important that the U.S. Government officially recommended in 2003 that Americans get more Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids in their diet.
  3. Maxi Greens (Advanced Phytonutrient Formula): 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Bilberry, grape seed extract and ginkgo are particularly important since these potent antioxidants serve to strengthen blood vessels and protect the circulatory system.
  4. CoQ10 (50-100mg): 1 cap, 2-3 times per day with meals (target dose range: 150-400mg per day). CoQ10 is essential to mitochondrial function which can be comprimized in diabetes and should be considered a mandatory supplement for anyone taking statins fo cholesterol or by anyone with any cardiac risk factors.
  5. Increased Fiber Intake: A minimum of 20 grams of fiber daily will stabilize blood sugars and provide a host of other health benefits. Dietary fiber can be difficult to obtain in adequate amounts and most Americans get woefully little in their diet. Dr. Myatt has developed a “bread” substitute that is very low carb and very high fiber.
  6. Fiber Formula: 6-12 caps per day can be useful in maintaining a good fiber intake, especially when travelling and unable to make the “Myatt Bread” mentioned above.
  7. Berberine (200mg): I cap, 3 times per day with meals. Berberine has been found to be as effective for blood sugar control as the prescription drug metformin. Do not take both metformin and berberine – take one or the other. Do NOT stop taking metformin if it has been prescribed to you without discussing it with your doctor or other health care provider.

Additional Support

Urinary Tract Health:

  • D-mannose works by preventing bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract and not by direct antibiotic action soit does not have any of the potential for negative side-effects that antibiotics do. One teaspoon in 6 ounces of water drunk twice daily can help to prevent the urinary tract infections common in diabetics, and double that (i.e.: 4 times daily) can help to resolve urinary tract infections.

With High Cholesterol:

  • Red Yeast Rice: 2 caps, 2 times per day with meals. (Target Dose 2000 mg per day) Unlike isolated “statin” drugs, Red Rice Yeast contains a mixture of related but different statins that act synergistically. As a result, lower (and safer) doses of any one statin are taken. Red Rice Yeast has been shown to lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL levels.
    OR
  • Berberine (200mg): I cap, 3 times per day with meals. Berberine is a potent lipid-lowering compound and also has a moderate weight loss effect.

With Neuopathy (nerve pain):

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine: 500-1,000 mg, 2-3 times per day with meals. (Target dose range: 1,000- 2,000mg per day).Acetyl-L-Carnitine helps to restore insulin sensitivity.
  • Alpha lipoic acid: 300-1200 mg daily. Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces symptoms of neuropathy.

Since these two supplements create a powerful synergy when used together Dr. Myatt offers a high-potency supplement which combines both nutrients in a single formula. One bottle of ALA-ALC is equivalent to two bottles each of our separate ALA and ALC formulas. For those who need to take both nutrients in higher potencies, this represents asignificant savings and convenience.

  • Alpha Lipoic Acid / Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALA / ALC) One or two caps daily to improve insulin sensitivity and relieve symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. This combination also improves mitochondrial function (the “energy producing units” of the cell) is also involved in the conversion of carbohydrates to energy.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

Diabetes leads to serious health complications. All of the problems associated with aging—-impaired circulation, decreases of hearing and eyesight, and heart disease are accelerated in uncontrolled diabetes. Fortunately, Type II diabetes is almost always controllable through diet, lifestyle, and corrective nutrients and herbs. Insulin is sometimes but rarely necessary (in instances of Type 1.5 diabetes) and may be preferable to other glucose-lowering drugs. It is important to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range, thus avoiding the multiple health risks and premature aging that diabetes causes.

I find that well over 90% of Type II diabetic patients can achieve normal-range glucose control by following a ketogenic diet and the above-listed primary support measures. If blood sugars are not dramatically improved (usually completely corrected!) after three months on this program, consult with an alternative medicine physician who can help you find the best diet and supplement program. I am available for consultation by telephone and I have an excellent success rate with type II diabetic patients.

References:

Kalman D. Chromium picolinate and type 2 diabetes. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2003; 78(1): 92.
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/78/1/192.1.full.pdf

Artemis P. Simopoulos, Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency and High Fructose intake in the Development of Metabolic Syndrome Brain, Metabolic Abnormalities, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Nutrients. 2013 Aug; 5(8): 2901–2923.
Published online 2013 Jul 26. doi: 10.3390/nu5082901
PMCID: PMC3775234
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775234/

Power RA, Hulver MW, Zhang JY, Dubois J, Marchand RM, Ilkayeva O, Muoio DM, Mynatt RL.Carnitine revisited: potential use as adjunctive treatment in diabetes. Diabetologia. 2007 Apr;50(4):824-32. Epub 2007 Feb 20.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00125-007-0605-4

Ziegler D, Ametov A, Barinov A, Dyck PJ, Gurieva I, Low PA, Munzel U, Yakhno N, Raz I, Novosadova M, Maus J, Samigullin R. Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy. Diabetes Care 2006; 29(11): 2365-70.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17065669

Design Your Own Optimal Health / Anti-Aging Supplement Program

Natural Support To Keep You In The Peak Of Health For Years To Come

Step 1: Optimal Dose Multivitamins & Minerals

Optimal (not just minimal) doses of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants should be the foundation of every good health program. For information about optimal daily adult doses of nutrients, refer to the vitamin/mineral chart here.

Dr. Myatt’s Maxi Multi delivers optimal daily doses of vitamins, minerals and trace minerals in a single formula. Other possible combinations of formulas based on age and sex can be found here: Which Formulas Are Right For You?

If you take only one thing, make it an optimal potency multiple vitamin / mineral / trace mineral / antioxidant formula such as Maxi Multi or equivalent combination.

[Note: To obtain the equivalent of Maxi Multi’s, most people need to take the following: I.) High quality multiple vitamin / mineral formula II.) B complex vitamins III.) Additional antioxidant formula IV.) Calcium / magnesium / boron.]

Step 2: Phyto-nutrients

Plants contain hundreds of non-vitamin/non-mineral substances known as “phytonutrients.” (Phyto=plant). Although not absolutely essential to to life like vitamins and minerals are, these plant-derived nutrients never-the-less perform many important functions. Phytonutrients act as potent antioxidants, detoxifiers, oxygenators and anti-mutagenics. (Preventing cancerous changes in cells). The typical American diet is far too low in produce, so plant-derived nutrients are often lacking. Supplementing flavonoid-rich herbs is good “health insurance.” Maxi Greens provides a broad spectrum of phytonutrients in a single formula OR use other flavonoid-rich herbs singularly or in combination.

Step 3: Organ System or Condition-Specific Protocols

If you have a medical diagnosis, you may choose to use a supplement protocol that has been proven useful for your condition. You can look up medical conditions in the “Disease” Knowledge Search box on the upper right hand corner of every page on this website. If you do not have a diagnosis OR if you wish to practice preventive medicine, follow the “Health Priority Protocols” for any organ system that scored “high” on the Health Priority Self-Evaluation. The Health Priority Evaluation can be found on page 6-8 of the Holistic Health Handbook.

Step 4: Hormones

Hormones are potent “biochemical messengers” that control virtually every aspect of physical function. Many hormones, including sex hormones (DHEA, estrogens, progestins, testosterone), neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine) and melatonin decline with age. It is believed that the aging process can be slowed or countered by maintaining more youthful levels of these hormones.

Because the hormonal “milieu” is a complicated mix, I recommend hormone testing when available (as it is for the sex hormones) before beginning replacement therapy.

Additional Measures to Consider:

Cancer Prevention Protocol

1.) Take optimal daily doses of vitamins and minerals. (Maxi Multi or equivalent).
2.) Take additional flavonoid-rich herbs (Maxi Greens or equivalent).
3.) Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids: fish oil (best) or flax oil OR 2 TBS. or more ground flax seed.
4.) Hormone Balancing as indicated by the results of a hormone profile.
5.) Cancer-prevention “extras” (if not included elsewhere in your program)

Use any or all:

Click here for Advice about Your Anti-Aging / Longevity Protocol

Q & A About Nutritional Supplements

Q: It seems strange to take so many supplements to stay healthy. Can’t I just get my nutrients from a good diet?

A: Theoretically, yes. Realistically, no. You need supplements to ensure that there are no “gaps” in your nutrient intake. And while it may seem “strange” to take supplements, consider how strange our eating behaviors have become.

We don’t eat fresh fruits and vegetables just picked from the vine; we eat produce that was grown with multiple pesticides and insecticides, then shipped long distances and kept in cold storage. Instead of fresh produce, we may be eating an apple that was picked 18 months ago. Nutrients are lost by the hour when produce is picked.

We no longer eat whole grain bread from freshly milled grain, with the germ (which contains vitamin E), and bran (which contains fiber and B complex vitamins) intact. Instead, our flour has been processed, all nutrients removed, bleached, chlorinated, baked into bread with preservatives added, then “enriched” with a few token nutrients.

Do you drink milk for the calcium? Or eat cheese? Our cattle are fattened by using human sex hormones and growth hormones to stimulate milk production and fatten them for beef. Those hormones are in the flesh and milk, and then passed on to us. High levels of dioxin are now found in cattle, presumably because this outlawed environmental toxin is making it’s way up the food chain.

I could go on, but what’s the point? Even if you consistently make every effort to eat healthfully, unless you raise all of your own food and eat it fresh, you are not obtaining the necessary nutrients from diet. Few people I know eat this way.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the protective value of obtaining target doses of various nutrients. Even a single nutrient deficiency can cause a whole “domino effect” of health problems, since “everything is connected to everything” in the body. Why take chances? Taking Maxi Multi is inexpensive health insurance.

Q: The recommended dose for Maxi Multi is 9 caps per day. I take a one-per day multi vitamin now. Why does your formula require so many capsules for a full day’s dose?

A: Because optimal doses of nutrients do not fit into one capsule or tablet.

Q: I have been taking vitamins from the health food store and I feel fine. Should I keep taking these, or switch to Dr.Myatt’s Maxi Multi’s?

A: Switch to Maxi Multi! Are you certain that your multiple contains optimal doses of all nutrients? Are you certain that it was manufactured with the highest quality raw materials? Verified by independent laboratory testing as well as stringent in-house testing? Does the company use the most efficacious form of each individual nutrient? Do they include important (but often overlooked) trace minerals such as molybdenum, vanadium and boron? Do they continually update the formula to reflect new discoveries in the field of nutritional medicine? Do they have me-”The Dragon Lady”- or someone just like me, watching every aspect of quality, purity, and formulation? If you want to be sure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs on a daily basis, in the purest, most potent, optimal doses, take Maxi Multi.

Q: I take Maxi Multi’s every day. Do I need to take other supplements?

A: That depends. If you are in good health, have no medical problems, and follow the “Golden Rules of Good Health” at least 90% of the time, Maxi Multi’s may be all you need.

If you have already-existing health problems, do not follow good health practices on a regular basis, or want to do more to prevent problems, then additional supplementation is in order.

Maxi Multi’s provide a solid foundation for your good health program. They are inexpensive “health insurance” that will protect you from numerous deficiency-related disease, dietary imbalances, and environmental toxins. Consider Maxi Multi’s the starting place for your supplement protocol.

Every “protocol” listed here is built on a foundation of Maxi Multi’s or the equivalent. If you are not getting the “foundation,” additional supplementation will be far less beneficial.

Remember, if you only take one nutritional supplement, Maxi Multi should be The One.

Ten Rules of Good Health

Dr. Myatt’s Basic Rules For Healthier Living

1. Eat a Nutritious Diet…
The food you eat its quality and amount provide the fuel for your body. Each of your 75 trillion cells depends on you to feed them. Most people understand that their car requires a particular type of fuel. Do you understand that your body does, too? In order to ensure adequate nutrition, practice the following:

  • Eat as much food in the unrefined state as possible.
  • Include at least five servings of vegetables and/or fruits each day.
  • Whole grains are preferable to refined ones; fresh produce is preferable to canned or processed.
  • Have deep fried food, sugar-sweetened food, and alcohol, rarely, if at all.
  • Eat according to your Body Energy Type. For more information on this subject, please see WEIGHT LOSS.

2. Drink Pure Water…
The body is 60% water and requires a replenishment of 6-8 glasses per day of water. Make sure that the water you drink is uncontaminated by heavy metals, chemicals and micro-organisms. Many water supplies, including municipal water supplies, are not pure enough to ensure good health. If you drink tap or well water, have it tested for purity. If you do not know the quality of your tap water, buy purified water or purchase a good water purifier for home use. Drink 48-64 ounces per day of this pure water, either as water or herb tea. (Caffeinated beverages, bottled or canned fruit juice, soda pop and alcohol should not be counted as part of your water intake. They do not have the same solvent properties as pure water).

3. Breathe…
Air provides life-giving oxygen. Like water, the body cannot survive without taking in oxygen. Plenty of fresh, clean air is essential to good health. Here are some ways to get more advantage from each breath you take.

  • Exercise out-of-doors as much as possible, especially in nature. Parks, the sea shore or even local grassy areas provide benefit. Remember, green plants purify the air and give us back more oxygen.
  • If you live in a city where the air quality is compromised (most people do!), have green plants indoors at home and at work as much as possible. Houseplants help purify indoor air.
  • Practice deep breathing exercises. Many people are oxygen-deprived because they do not breathe deeply.
  • Try to live in a place where the air quality is good. Many big cities have notoriously poor air quality. Consider a home air purifier if you live in a particularly bad area.

4. Sunshine:
Ten minutes of sunlight per day, even if only on exposed arms, is enough to encourage normal vitamin D production. Sunlight has mood-elevating effects. It destroys harmful bacteria and stimulates a cascade of positive hormone effects in the body. While excessive sun exposure can be harmful, so can inadequate exposure. Outdoor exercise will give the necessary sunlight without excess. Make it a point to get a modest amount of sunlight each day, whether by outdoor exercise or ten minutes of sunbathing.

5. Exercise:
The human body is designed for movement. Aerobic activity encourages normal circulation of blood and lymph. Heart and structural muscles are strengthened by exercise. Hormone production and utilization is improved by regular exercise. The bowels depend on physical movement to function normally. Metabolism and immune system activity are increased by moderate exercise. Bones require weight-bearing exercise for normal mineral uptake. Movement keeps joints and connective tissue flexible. Exercise encourages deep breathing and increases oxygen utilization and waste exhalation. For cardiovascular and musculo-skeletal conditioning, aim for a minimum of 15 minutes of brisk walking, 5 days per week, or 30 minutes 3 times per week. Gradually increase speed or distance as physical conditioning improves. (See Exercise) For a metabolism boost, a mere 10 minutes each morning of intensive exercise (Exercising to the point where you are breathing hard enough that you could talk if you had to, but you wouldn’t want to) will put your metabolism and fat-burning into high gear for the day.

6. Sleep:
Most people require seven to eight hours of sleep per night. (Some older people may have a decreased sleep requirement). Studies have shown that people perform better with adequate sleep, yet many people are consistently sleep-deprived. Make it a point to get adequate sleep. (See INSOMNIA for tips on how to get a good nights sleep). Sleep deprivation results in hormonal imbalances which can lead to weight gain and many other problems.

7. Avoid negative health behaviors.
It may seem obvious, but one of the easy ways to be healthier is to not engage in unhealthy behaviors. Nicotine, excesses of alcohol and caffeine, and many drugs damage health. Smoking is such a health-destroying habit that I have listed it separately. (See Smoking… Just the Facts). Other health-destroying habits include excessive stress response, multiple sex partners or unprotected sex with infected partners, and failure to wear a seat belt.

8. Maintain a positive outlook.
Everybody has problems in life. Most problems we invite or create ourselves. To cure this, see # 9, below. Other problems are just what life deals us. We choose how we will respond to any given situation. You can respond with positivity or negativity. Studies have shown negative health effects from negative mental outlooks. Its bad enough to have a problem; don’t make it worse by a negative mental outlook. Cultivate the habit of positivity. Make the best of every situation. I recommend that you watch my video The Body/Mind Connection. It is an owners manual for everyone with a body and a mind!

9. Strive to elevate yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually.
We get what we aim for. Weight lifters grow stronger by lifting weights. Piano players get better by playing the piano. If you want to be healthier, happier, and of greater service, you must seek to move in that direction. Those who say “I can’t” will find they can’t. Those who say “its so hard” will find it hard. You have a wealth of talent and possibility within you. Act like you know it. Make repeated attempts to use that talent to the best of your abilities, and you will find yourself becoming stronger, happier, and healthier.

10. Trust in a Higher Power.
What do you believe about the bigger picture of your life? Do you understand that you are more than just flesh and bone? Seek and cultivate your connection with a Higher Power. I recommend my video “Remembering Who You Are” to stimulate your understanding in this regard.