Category: Health Concerns

Vitamin D

The Sunshine Vitamin For Healthy Bones, Teeth, and Cancer Prevention

Vitamin D increases calcium absorption. Deficiencies of Vitamin D are associated with infertility, cancer, osteoporosis, rheumatic pains, and dental disease

It is known as the SUNSHINE vitamin because exposure to sunshine, even as little as 10 minutes per day, promotes the body’s natural production of Vitamin D. Those living in northern climates where sunshine is limited or in southern areas who shield themselves from the sun with clothing or sunscreen can easily become deficient in Vitamin D.

Dr. Braverman says about Vitamin D:

New research is showing the anti inflammatory benefits of Vit D. It has been shown to decrease NK cell activity, as well as alter the TH1/TH2 cytokine ratio in favor of the anti inflammatory response by lowering TH1 and increasing TH2.  Its effects are very similar to the TH2 cytokine called IL-10 one of the most important TH2 cytokines produced for the maintenance of pregnancy.  It is the TH2 cytokine we measure with our TH1/TH2 ratio. We recommend patients that require this therapy take between 2000 and 4000 IU /day.  We have started screening our patients for what is turning out to be a common vitamin deficiency in this country.

Dietary sources of vitamin D include: fish liver oil and egg yolk.

More recently, higher intakes of vitamin D have been shown to protect the body from cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer. Many authorities are recommending that the recommended adult daily dose should be raised from 400 IU to 1,000 IU. Doses of 1,000-6,000 are not only safe, they may be needed for disease prevention.

Maxi Multi contains 800 IU of Vitamin D per daily serving.

NOTE: Do not use more than 10,000 IU per day without medical supervision because Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. Although vitamin D can store in the liver and become toxic, these toxicities were seen in people consuming 30,000IU or more (20 times the recommended dose!) for months. Vitamin D is much safer than we have previously been led to believe.

Suggested dose: Daily adult dose range: 800-2,000 IU. Doses as high as 10,000 IU may be needed to normalize vitamin D levels.

Vitamin D 5000 – Product # 288  (250 Capsules) $21.95

Each (one) capsule contains: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 5000 IU.

References:

Please see a full list of references at this special report:  Vitamin D Special Report

Fiber:

Twenty-Five Surprising Benefits of  a Dietary “Non-Nutrient”

It’s not a “sexy supplement” or a “new breakthrough.” In fact, it’s not even officially classified as a nutrient. But Americans get only 10% of the amount we consumed 100 years ago, and our health may be seriously suffering as a result.

What is this important “non nutrient” that we’re missing? Dietary fiber.

“Fiber” refers to a number of indigestible carbohydrates found in the outer layers of plants. Humans lack enzymes to break down most types of fiber, so they pass through the digestive system relatively unchanged and do not provide nutrients or significant calories.

In spite of this indigestibility, fiber has a surprising number of health benefits. In fact, consuming adequate daily fiber may be one of the most important health measures anyone can take.

Twenty-Five Health Benefits of Fiber — Who Knew?

There are numerous “sub-classes” of fiber, but the two main types are I.) soluble and II.) insoluble fiber. Both types are beneficial to health and both typically occur together in nature. They each offer independent health benefits. Here are twenty-five known health benefits that fiber provides.

Bowel Benefits:

  1. Relieves constipation. Insoluble fiber absorbs large amounts of water in the colon. This makes stools softer and easier to pass. Most people who increase fiber intake will notice improved bowel function in 31-39 hours.(1-4)
  2. Relieves diarrhea. It may seem paradoxical that a substance which helps constipation also helps diarrhea, but that’s just what fiber does. Insoluble fiber binds watery stool in the colon, helping turn “watery” into “formed.” Fiber is known to offer significant improvement to those with diarrhea.(5,6)
  3. Helps prevent hemorrhoids. Constipation is a leading cause of hemorrhoids. Because fiber-rich stools are easier to pass, less straining is necessary. Diets high in fiber have been shown to prevent and relieve hemorrhoids.(7)
  4. Reduces risk of diverticular disease. In cultures that consume high-fiber diets, diverticular disease is relatively unknown. That’s because high fiber intake “exercises” the colon, prevents excess bowel gas and absorbs toxins, all of which lead to the “bowel herniation” disease known as diverticulitis. Increased fiber intake is currently recommended in Western medicine as primary prevention for the disease.(8,9,10)
  5. Helps Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by constipation, diarrhea, or alternating constipation/diarrhea. Regardless of type, increased fiber intake has been shown to improve IBS symptoms.(3,11-14)
  6. Improves bowel flora. “Flora” refers to the “good bugs” (healthy bacteria) that colonize the large intestine (colon). Antibiotics, drugs, food allergies, high sugar diets and junk food alter this “bowel garden” in favor of the “bad bugs.” Certain types of fiber are rich in substances the “feed” bowel flora and help keep the balance of good bacteria in the colon at a normal level.(4,15)
  7. Helps prevent colon cancer. Although research has been controversial, observational studies in the 1970s showed that African natives consuming high-fiber diets had a much lower incidence of colorectal carcinoma.(16) Since the “risk” of increased fiber consumption is so small, the “US Pharmacist,” states…

“…with no clearly negative data about fiber, it makes sense to increase fiber intake just in case the positive studies did reveal an actual link. The patient will also experience the ancillary benefits of fiber consumption, such as reduction in cholesterol (with psyllium), prevention of constipation, and reducing risk of hemorrhoids.”

  1. Appendicitis: studies show a correlation between the development of appendicitis and low fiber intake. A diet high in fiber may help prevent appendicitis.(59)

Whew… that’s just the bowel benefits!
Fiber also helps prevent heart disease in multiple ways.

  1. Lowers Total cholesterol. According to the FDA, soluble fiber meets the standard for reduction of risk from coronary heart disease.(15,16) Psyllium husk is also able to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease as it contains a soluble fiber similar to beta-glucan.(17-26)
  2. Lowers triglycerides. Higher dietary fiber is associated with lower triglyceride levels.(24-26)
  3. Raises HDL. Fiber may even raise HDL — the “good cholesterol” — levels.(27)
  4. Lowers LDL Cholesterol. In addition to total cholesterol, increased fiber lowers LDL — the “bad cholesterol” — levels.(28-29)
  5. Aids Weight loss. Fiber helps prevent weight gain and assists weight loss several ways. The “bulking action” of fiber leads to an earlier feeling of satiety, meaning that one feels satisfied with less high-calorie food when the meal contains a lot of fiber.(30,31) Fiber helps bind and absorb dietary fat, making it less available for assimilation. This means that some fat may be “lost” through the digestive tract when the meal is high in insoluble fiber.(32)
  6. Lowers Overall risk of Coronary Artery Disease. Perhaps because of a combination of the above-listed lipid-normalizing factors, some studies have shown an overall protective effect of higher fiber intake against coronary heart disease.(33)

Fiber also benefits blood sugar levels and diabetes…

  1. Helps Type I Diabetes. Eaten with meals, high-fiber supplements like guar gum reduced the rise in blood sugar following meals in people with type 1 diabetes.(34-35) In one trial, a low-glycemic-index diet containing 50 grams of daily fiber improved blood sugar control and helped prevent hypoglycemic episodes in people with type 1 diabetes taking two or more insulin injections per day.(36)
  2. Improves Type II Diabetes. High-fiber diets have been shown to work better in controlling diabetes than the American Diabetic Association (ADA)-recommended diet, and may control blood sugar levels as well as oral diabetic drugs.One study compared participants eating the the ADA diet (supplying 24 grams of daily fiber) or a high-fiber diet (containing 50 grams daily fiber) for six weeks. Those eating the high-fiber diet for six weeks had an average 10% lower glucose level than people eating the ADA diet. Insulin levels were 12% lower in the high-fiber group compared to those in the ADA diet group. The high fiber group also had decreased  glycosylated hemoglobin levels, a measure of long-term blood glucose regulation.(37)

    High-fiber supplements such as psyllium(38),  guar gum(39) and pectin(40) have shown improved glucose tolerance.(20, 26)

More systemic benefits of fiber:

  1. Gallstone prevention. Rapid digestion of carbohydrates leads to fast release of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream. In response, the body releases large amounts of insulin. High insulin levels contribute to gallstone formation. Because dietary fiber slows the release of carbohydrates (and corresponding insulin), fiber helps prevent gallstone formation.(41-43)
  2. Kidney stone prevention. Low intakes of dietary fiber have been found to correlate with increased kidney stone formation, and higher intakes of fiber appear to be protective against stone formation.(44-46)
  3. Varicose veins. “Straining at stool” caused by fiber-deficiency constipation, has been found in some studies to cause varicose veins.(47) Populations with lower fiber intakes have higher rates of varicosities.(48)

Fiber may even be important in prevention of certain types of cancer…

  1. Colon Cancer Prevention. Diets higher in fiber have been shown in some studies to reduce the risk of colon cancer.(49-51)
  2. Breast cancer prevention. Higher fiber diets are associated with lower breast cancer risk.(51,52) Some studies have shown up to a 50% decreased risk with higher fiber intakes.(53) After diagnosis, a high fiber diet may decrease the risk of  breast cancer reoccurrence.(54)
  3. Pancreatic cancer prevention. High fiber diets are associated with lower risk of pancreatic cancer.(55)
  4. Endometrial cancer prevention. Higher fiber has been shown in some studies to protect against endometrial cancer.(56)
  5. Prostate cancer prevention. Diets higher in fiber may be associated with lower risk of prostate cancer.(51,57) After diagnosis, a high fiber diet may decrease the risk of  prostate cancer reoccurrence.(54)
  6. Cancer prevention in general. Some studies have found that high fiber diets help prevent cancer in general, regardless of type.(58)

Recommendations vs. Reality

The average daily American fiber intake is estimated at 14 to 15 g, significantly less than the American Dietetic Association recommendation of 20 to 35 g for adults, 25 g daily for girls ages 9 through 18 years and 31 to 38 g for boys ages 9 through 18.(60-61) The American Heart Association recommends 25 to 30 g daily.(62)

Based on dietary intakes of long-lived populations (who typically consume 40-60 grams or more of fiber per day), many holistic physicians recommend aiming for a minimum of 30 grams of daily fiber.

In my clinical experience, I find that most people over-estimate their fiber intake because they are unaware of the fiber content of many of the foods they eat. See how your food choices stack up here: Rate Your Plate – It’s fun, educational and surprising!

Since fiber has proven itself to be such an important “non nutrient” for good health, increased dietary consumption and/or supplementation can be considered a wise choice for optimal health and disease prevention.

EZ-FiberStill The Best-Tasting, Most Complete Fiber Available

Dr. Myatt’s Maxi Fiber was called EZ Fiber – NOW CALLED Fiber Complex

Great News! Maxi Fiber, one of Dr. Myatt’s most popular products, has been licensed to a major supplement manufacturer. This means that Dr. Myatt no longer sells Maxi Fiber in the small containers, but now offers the same great product (exactly the same!) in a larger container for your convenience. The old Maxi Fiber provided 30 servings per container and the new product Fiber Complex ™ comes in a 60 serving container.

Click Here To Order Fiber Complex

References

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  5. Nakamura S, Hongo R, Moji K, Oku T. Suppressive effect of partially hydrolyzed guar gum on transitory diarrhea induced by ingestion of maltitol and lactitol in healthy humans.Eur J Clin Nutr. 2007 Sep;61(9):1086-93. Epub 2007 Jan 24.
  6. Homann HH, Kemen M, Fuessenich C, Senkal M, Zumtobel V. Reduction in diarrhea incidence by soluble fiber in patients receiving total or supplemental enteral nutrition. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 1994 Nov-Dec;18(6):486-90.
  7. Alonso-Coello P, Mills E, Heels-Ansdell D, López-Yarto M, Zhou Q, Johanson JF, Guyatt G. Fiber for the treatment of hemorrhoids complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006 Jan;101(1):181-8.
  8. Korzenik JR. Case closed? Diverticulitis: epidemiology and fiber. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2006 Aug;40(7 Suppl 3):S112-6.
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  10. Salzman H, Lillie D. Diverticular disease: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2005 Oct 1;72(7):1229-34
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  12. Parisi GC, Zilli M, Miani MP, Carrara M, Bottona E, Verdianelli G, Battaglia G, Desideri S, Faedo A, Marzolino C, Tonon A, Ermani M, Leandro G. High-fiber diet supplementation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a multicenter, randomized, open trial comparison between wheat bran diet and partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG). Dig Dis Sci. 2002 Aug;47(8):1697-704.
  13. Parisi G, Bottona E, Carrara M, Cardin F, Faedo A, Goldin D, Marino M, Pantalena M, Tafner G, Verdianelli G, Zilli M, Leandro G. Treatment effects of partially hydrolyzed guar gum on symptoms and quality of life of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. A multicenter randomized open trial. Dig Dis Sci. 2005 Jun;50(6):1107-12.
  14. Giannini EG, Mansi C, Dulbecco P, Savarino V. Role of partially hydrolyzed guar gum in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Nutrition. 2006 Mar;22(3):334-42. Epub 2006 Jan 18.
  15. Giannini EG, Mansi C, Dulbecco P, Savarino V. Role of partially hydrolyzed guar gum in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Nutrition. 2006 Mar;22(3):334-42. Epub 2006 Jan 18.
  16. Franco A, Sikalidis AK, Solis Herruzo JA. Colorectal cancer: Influence of diet and lifestyle factors. Rev Esp Enferm Dig. 2005;97:432-448.
  17. Chandalia M, Garg A, Lutjohann D, et al. Beneficial effects of high dietary fiber intake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. New Engl J Med 2000;342:1392–8.
  18. Rodríguez-Morán M, Guerrero-Romero F, Lazcano-Burciaga G. Lipid- and glucose-lowering efficacy of plantago psyllium in type II diabetes. Diabetes Its Complications 1998;12:273–8.
  19. Landin K, Holm G, Tengborn L, Smith U. Guar gum improves insulin sensitivity, blood lipids, blood pressure, and fibrinolysis in healthy men. Am J Clin Nutr 1992;56:1061–5.
  20. Stasse-Wolthuis M, Hautvast JG, Hermus RJ, Katan MB, Bausch JE, Rietberg-Brussaard JH, Velema JP, Zondervan JH, Eastwood MA, Brydon WG. The effect of a natural high-fiber diet on serum lipids, fecal lipids, and colonic function. Am J Clin Nutr. 1979 Sep;32(9):1881-8.
  21. Jenkins DJ, Wolever TM, Rao AV, Hegele RA, Mitchell SJ, Ransom TP, Boctor DL, Spadafora PJ, Jenkins AL, Mehling C, et al. Effect on blood lipids of very high intakes of fiber in diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol. N Engl J Med. 1993 Jul 1;329(1):21-6.
  22. Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, Popovich DG, Vidgen E, Mehling CC, Vuksan V, Ransom TP, Rao AV, Rosenberg-Zand R, Tariq N, Corey P, Jones PJ, Raeini M, Story JA, Furumoto EJ, Illingworth DR, Pappu AS, Connelly PW. Effect of a very-high-fiber vegetable, fruit, and nut diet on serum lipids and colonic function. Metabolism. 2001 Apr;50(4):494-503.
  23. Minekus M, Jelier M, Xiao JZ, Kondo S, Iwatsuki K, Kokubo S, Bos M, Dunnewind B, Havenaar R. Effect of partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) on the bioaccessibility of fat and cholesterol. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2005 May;69(5):932-8.
  24. Kondo S, Xiao JZ, Takahashi N, Miyaji K, Iwatsuki K, Kokubo S. Suppressive effects of dietary fiber in yogurt on the postprandial serum lipid levels in healthy adult male volunteers. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2004 May;68(5):1135-8.
  25. Bhargava A. Fiber intakes and anthropometric measures are predictors of circulating hormone, triglyceride, and cholesterol concentrations in the women’s health trial. J Nutr. 2006 Aug;136(8):2249-54.
  26. Higgins JA. Resistant starch: metabolic effects and potential health benefits. J AOAC Int. 2004 May-Jun;87(3):761-8.
  27. Solà R, Godàs G, Ribalta J, Vallvé JC, Girona J, Anguera A, Ostos M, Recalde D, Salazar J, Caslake M, Martín-Luján F, Salas-Salvadó J, Masana L. Effects of soluble fiber (Plantago ovata husk) on plasma lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins in men with ischemic heart disease. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Apr;85(4):1157-63
  28. Aller R, de Luis DA, Izaola O, La Calle F, del Olmo L, Fernandez L, Arranz T, Hernandez JM. Effect of soluble fiber intake in lipid and glucose levels in healthy subjects: a randomized clinical trial. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2004 Jul;65(1):7-11
  29. Wood RJ, Fernandez ML, Sharman MJ, Silvestre R, Greene CM, Zern TL, Shrestha S, Judelson DA, Gomez AL, Kraemer WJ, Volek JS. Effects of a carbohydrate-restricted diet with and without supplemental soluble fiber on plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and other clinical markers of cardiovascular risk. Metabolism. 2007 Jan;56(1):58-67.
  30. Higgins JA. Resistant starch: metabolic effects and potential health benefits. J AOAC Int. 2004 May-Jun;87(3):761-8.
  31. Cani PD, Joly E, Horsmans Y, Delzenne NM. Oligofructose promotes satiety in healthy human: a pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 May;60(5):567-72.
  32. van Bennekum AM, Nguyen DV, Schulthess G, Hauser H, Phillips MC. Mechanisms of cholesterol-lowering effects of dietary insoluble fibres: relationships with intestinal and hepatic cholesterol parameters. Br J Nutr. 2005 Sep;94(3):331-7.
  33. Jensen MK, Koh-Banerjee P, Hu FB, Franz M, Sampson L, Grønbaek M, Rimm EB. Intakes of whole grains, bran, and germ and the risk of coronary heart disease in men. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Dec;80(6):1492-9.
  34. U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005. Home and Garden Bulletin No. 232, 2005. Available from URL: www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/document.
  35. Ebeling P, Yki-Jarvinen H, Aro A, et al. Glucose and lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in type 1 diabetes: the effect of guar gum. Am J Clin Nutr 1988;48:98–103.
  36. Giacco R, Parillo M, Rivellese AA, et al. Long-term dietary treatment with increased amounts of fiber-rich low-glycemic index natural foods improves blood glucose control and reduces the number of hypoglycemic events in type 1 diabetic patients. Diabetes Care 2000;23:1461–6.
  37. Fed Reg. 1997;62(99):28234-28245.
  38. Fed Reg. 1998;63(32):8103-8121
  39. Moreyra AE, Wilson AC, Koraym A. Effect of combining psyllium fiber with simvastatin in lowering cholesterol. Arch Intern Med. 2005;165:1161-1166.
  40. Schwartz SE, Levine RA, Weinstock RS, et al. Sustained pectin ingestion: effect on gastric emptying and glucose tolerance in non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Am J Clin Nutr 1988;48:1413–7.
  41. Mendez-Sanchez N, Zamora-Valdes D, Chavez-Tapia NC, Uribe M.  Role of diet in cholesterol gallstone formation.Clin Chim Acta. 2007 Feb;376(1-2):1-8. Epub 2006 Sep 15.
  42. Cuevas A, Miquel JF, Reyes MS, Zanlungo S, Nervi F. Diet as a risk factor for cholesterol gallstone disease. J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Jun;23(3):187-96.
  43. Schwesinger WH, Kurtin WE, Page CP, Stewart RM, Johnson R.. Soluble dietary fiber protects against cholesterol gallstone formation. Am J Surg. 1999 Apr;177(4):307-10.
  44. Griffith HM, O’Shea B, Kevany JP, McCormick JS. A control study of dietary factors in renal stone formation. Br J Urol. 1981 Oct;53(5):416-20.
  45. Jaeger P. Prevention of recurrent calcium stones: diet versus drugs. Miner Electrolyte Metab. 1994;20(6):410-3
  46. Ebisuno S, Morimoto S, Yoshida T, et al. Rice-bran treatment for calcium stone formers with idiopathic hypercalciuria. Br J Urol 1986;58:592–5.
  47. Burkitt DP. Varicose veins: facts and fantasy. Arch Surg. 1976 Dec;111(12):1327-32.
  48. Richardson JB, Dixon M. Varicose veins in tropical Africa.Lancet. 1977 Apr 9;1(8015):791-2.
  49. Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, Popovich DG, Vidgen E, Mehling CC, Vuksan V, Ransom TP, Rao AV, Rosenberg-Zand R, Tariq N, Corey P, Jones PJ, Raeini M, Story JA, Furumoto EJ, Illingworth DR, Pappu AS, Connelly PW. Effect of a very-high-fiber vegetable, fruit, and nut diet on serum lipids and colonic function. Metabolism. 2001 Apr;50(4):494-503.
  50. Le Marchand L, Hankin JH, Wilkens LR, Kolonel LN, Englyst HN, Lyu LC. Dietary fiber and colorectal cancer risk. Epidemiology. 1997 Nov;8(6):658-65.
  51. Divisi D, Di Tommaso S, Salvemini S, Garramone M, Crisci R. Diet and cancer. Acta Biomed. 2006 Aug;77(2):118-23.
  52. Saarinen NM, Wärri A, Airio M, Smeds A, Mäkelä S. Role of dietary lignans in the reduction of breast cancer risk. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2007 Jul;51(7):857-66.
  53. Suzuki R, Rylander-Rudqvist T, Ye W, Saji S, Adlercreutz H, Wolk A. Dietary fiber intake and risk of postmenopausal breast cancer defined by estrogen and progesterone receptor status-A prospective cohort study among Swedish women. Int J Cancer. 2007 Aug 31; [Epub ahead of print].
  54. Ferdowsian HR, Barnard ND. The role of diet in breast and prostate cancer survival. Ethn Dis. 2007 Spring;17(2 Suppl 2):S2-18-22.
  55. Chan JM, Wang F, Holly EA. Whole grains and risk of pancreatic cancer in a large population-based case-control study in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. Am J Epidemiol. 2007 Nov 15;166(10):1174-85. Epub 2007 Sep 18.
  56. Goodman MT, Wilkens LR, Hankin JH, Lyu LC, Wu AH, Kolonel LN. Association of soy and fiber consumption with the risk of endometrial cancer. Am J Epidemiol. 1997 Aug 15;146(4):294-306.
  57. Kolonel LN, Hankin JH, Whittemore AS, Wu AH, Gallagher RP, Wilkens LR, John EM, Howe GR, Dreon DM, West DW, Paffenbarger RS Jr. Vegetables, fruits, legumes and prostate cancer: a multiethnic case-control study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2000 Aug;9(8):795-804.
  58. Donaldson MS. Nutrition and cancer: a review of the evidence for an anti-cancer diet. Nutr J. 2004 Oct 20;3:19.
  59. Adamidis D, Roma-Giannikou E, Karamolegou K, Tselalidou E, Constantopoulos A. Fiber intake and childhood appendicitis. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2000 May;51(3):153-7.
  60. Eat fiber for health. American Dietetic Association. Available at: www.webdietitians.org/Public/index_20411.cfm. Accessed April 11, 2006.
  61. elp your children meet their fiber needs. Available at: www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/home_4309_ENU_HTML.htm. Accessed April 11, 2006.
  62. Fiber. American Heart Association. Available at: www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4574. Accessed April 11, 2006.

The Healing Power of Flowers

It's Always The Right Time For FlowersEver wonder why people send flowers for weddings, funerals, anniversaries, birthdays, get well wishes and every major holiday you can name? After all, fresh flowers seem so extravagant. You can’t eat them (for the most part), most aren’t medicinal, and after a week or so, they wilt and are gone. Yet for thousands of years, humans have spent much time and money cultivating these fleeting natural beauties. Science has discovered at least part of the reason for our fascination with flowers: they induce powerful, positive emotions.

In one study, women always elicited the Duchenne or “true smile” when presented with flowers. An increased positive mood could be measured for three days or more after presentation. In another study, a flower given to men or women in an elevator elicited more positive social behavior than any other stimuli. A third study showed that flowers given to participants aged 55+ evoked positive moods and improved  memory. Authors of these studies conclude that “Flowers have immediate and long-term effects on emotional reactions, mood, social behaviors and even memory for both males and females.”

We always have fresh flowers in the house, whether it be a single red rose or an entire vase bursting with color and fragrance. Considering the many positive emotions evoked by fresh flowers, why wait until sickness or death to send someone you love a beautiful bouquet?

Dr. Myatt’s Recommendation

Don’t wait for a special occasion to send flowers to those you love. Remember to send flowers to yourself, too. After having fresh flowers in your home for a week, you’ll understand their healing and uplifting powers and will probably never think of them as “extravagant” again!

It’s Never Too Late to send flowers!

Check out My Favorite Flower Company with their incredible array of choices, great prices and SAME DAY DELIVERY. They make sending flowers easy and enjoyable.

It's Never Too Late To Send Flowers It's Never Too Late To Send Flowers It's Always The Right Time For Flowers

It's Never Too Late To Send Flowers It's Always The Right Time For Flowers It's Never Too Late To Send Flowers

Reference

An Environmental Approach to Positive Emotion: Flowers. Haviland-Jones, Hale Rosario, R. McGuire, Evolutionary Psychology 3: 104-132, 17 April 2005.

Flu Vaccinations:

A Shot in The Dark?

When I was 8, one of my friend’s dad died suddenly, at the ripe old age of 35, of the flu. Not cancer, not a heart attack, not a car wreck — the flu.

One day he was sick in bed with fever, chills, and headache. The next day he saw the family doctor who prescribed an antibiotic (which is worthless for the flu). He had an anaphylactic reaction (severe allergic reaction) to the antibiotic and died that same day. Even at the tender age of 8, it just didn’t seem right for someone to die of such a “garden variety” illness. But he did, and people still do.

As old-fashioned a disease as “the flu” (influenza) is, 24.7 million people in the US contract the flu each year and over 100,000 of these cases require hospitalization. An average of 41,400 people die from complications of the flu in the US alone every year. Notice I said “complications.” People don’t die of the flu directly. They die of pneumonia or other “flu-related” diseases.1, 2 But don’t expect a flu shot to protect you. That’s because the effectiveness of the “flu shot” is in serious question.

Why The Flu Vaccine is a Bust

The flu is caused by over 200 different viruses and infective agents; colds are caused by over 700 viruses. Vaccinations against the flu protect against only THREE influenza A and B — that’s right — three of the 200 known A & B viruses, and A and B influenza viruses comprise only a small fraction of all causes of the flu.

Influenza vaccines are designed to protect against 3 Influenza viruses A & B (solid pink piece of the pie graph)

Influenza vaccines are designed to protect against 3 Influenza viruses A & B (solid pink piece of the pie graph). Graph courtesy of the British Medical Journal.

So, the flu vaccine protects from only a small percentage of the known causes of flu and flu vaccines may be effective as little as 39% (some studies show 0%) of the time in healthy adults.3 According to the FDA, “The shot doesn’t do as well at preventing flu in older adults and people with certain medical problems.” 4

Great. Flu vaccines only protect against a small number of viruses, are effective 39% or less of the time and work even less well in people who need it most, the elderly and immune-weakened folks. I’d say the flu vaccine is a real shot in the dark. Worse than ineffective or benign, the influenza vaccine is still preserved with thimerosol (mercury), a known neurotoxin. (Mercury-free vaccines exist but you won’t get it unless you specifically request it).

Of course, the flu isn’t the only malady we are more susceptible to in Winter months. Plain ol’ colds and sinus and respiratory infections also increase in the Winter, not because of cold temperatures directly but because viruses spread more easily in cold, dry air.

If the thought of getting sick, or possibly really sick, this Winter doesn’t inspire you, and if feel like I do —- totally underwhelmed by the effectiveness of the flu vaccine — what can you do?

Fortunately, Mother Nature has more immune-boosting strategies than modern medicine will EVER think of. Here are 4 simple, proven recommendations for keeping yourself “bullet proof” against not only the flu, but colds, sinus infections, pneumonia and all manner of Winter-time maladies.

How to Make Yourself Flu-Proof:  “Winterize” Your Immune System in Four Easy Steps

1.) Eat an Immune-Boosting Diet. The two major dietary causes of immune suppression are sugar intake and food allergies.

I.) Dietary sugar. Sugar suppresses the activity of white blood cells (neutrophils) — an important part of the immune system — for up to 5 hours.  Even fruit juice contains enough sugar to cause this immune-suppressing effect. Sugars which cause immune suppression include glucose, fructose, sucrose, honey, and orange juice.6,7,8 Although original studies showed an immune suppressing effect at 100 grams of sugar other studies have shown that even much lower intakes of dietary sugar have immune suppressing effects. 9,10. The USDA and the Center for Science in Public Interest (CSPI) agree that 40 grams of sugar is an acceptable daily limit.

Imagine a “healthy” (not!) day of eating that can actually keep immunity suppressed for the entire day.

Breakfast: glass of orange juice (1 cup has 21 grams of sugar), oatmeal with raisins (2 TBS. has 20 grams of sugar), 1 tsp. of sugar (4 grams of sugar) and lowfat milk (1 cup has 13 grams of sugar). That’s a whopping 58 grams of sugar just for breakfast! Expect a suppressed immune system for the next 5 hours.

Snack: Nonfat fruit-variety yogurt (1 cup has 47 grams of sugar) Immune suppression for up to 5 hours.

Lunch: Subway Chicken Teriyaki Sanwich (6 grams of sugar) with 2 oz. fat-free French dressing (12 grams sugar) and 1 oatmeal raisin cookie for desert (16 grams of sugar) [32 grams total].  Immune system still suppressed from breakfast and snack.

Dinner: green salad with 2 TBS. fat-free french dressing (6 grams), 1 serving Weight Watcher’s chicken enchiladas (33 grams) with 2 TBS fat-free yogurt topping (2 grams) [41 grams total] Immune suppression until bedtime.

Dessert: 1/2 cup Breyer’s no sugar added vanilla ice cream (only 4 grams), but it’s the “cherry” on the immune-suppression-day cake!

There you have it. “A day in the life” of someone who thinks they are eating fairly well, with more than enough sugar to cause all-day immune suppression. Notice that fruit juice and flavored yogurt are major offenders.

Avoiding sugar is the most important dietary step you can take to strengthen your immune system. Period.

II.) Food allergies. Food allergies weaken the immune system. White blood cells and other aspects of immunity get “distracted” taking care of internal annoyances (allergens) instead of protecting against outside “bugs” like the flu virus. Check out the symptoms of food allergy to see if this might be a problem for you. Check Food Allergy Symptoms Here

2.) Practice simple home and hygiene techniques.

I.) Wash your hands frequently. Flu and cold viruses can survive on surfaces, including hands, for hours. Every time you touch a doorknob or anything touched by another, you can pick up a virus. And don’t rub your eyes or face, thereby transmitting the virus to yourself from unwashed hands.

II.) Cover your mouth and nose — preferably with a tissue — when you sneeze or cough. Remember, flu and cold viruses are transmitted primarily through airborne droplets.

III.) Take the day off! If you’re suffering from a cold, do co-workers and friends a favor and quarantine yourself at home until you’re no longer sneezing and hacking. Of course, if you’ve got a bona fide case of the flu, you WILL be taking the day off. Flu symptoms are almost always severe enough to cause prostration.

IV.) Keep your house humid. Indoor fountains (even the little table-top varieties), humidifiers and live plants all help keep indoor Winter air moist. Viruses spread more slowly in higher humidity because airborne water droplets “grab” the viruses and pull them out of circulation. In dry air, viruses are left to float around from one sneezing, coughing host to another.5

3.) Strengthen your immune system with supplements.

I.) Take an optimal potency vitamin/mineral supplement every day. If you only take one supplement to strengthen your immune system, it should be a good multiple formula. Studies have shown that seniors who take a multiple have stronger immune systems and are less likely to get a respiratory tract infection or the flu.11,12,13 A deficiency of any single vitamin, mineral or trace mineral can lead to weakened immunity. 12-23 Improved nutritional status by supplementation can also improve the body’s response to vaccinations. 24

Notice I said optimal potency, not “minimal.” Studies have also shown that a one-per-day formula does virtually nothing to improve immunity. That’s because you can’t fit enough nutrients into one tablet or capsule to do anything but prevent severe deficiency diseases (like just enough vitamin C to prevent scurvy but not enough to strengthen the immune system). In the nutritional industry, we call that “pixie dust.” An optimal-potency multi vitamin will require at least 6 caps per day (in divided doses). My Maxi Multi recommendation is 9 caps per day, which also includes a full dose of calcium and magnesium (which take up a lot of space in a capsule).

Here are the nutrients of particular immune-enhancing importance, and they should all be found in a good multiple nutrient formula.

  • vitamin C – people with daily intakes of 500-1,000mg per day are less likely to catch colds, respiratory tract infections and pneumonia. Vitamin C also shortens the duration and severity of these infections.25-29,45
  • vitamin E – 200IU or more per day reduces the rate of common colds and upper respiratory tract infections 30,31 and increases resistance to influenza in seniors.18, 32-35,44
  • beta carotene – seniors with a high plasma beta-carotene concentration have a lower occurrence of acute respiratory infections.36
  • vitamin A – needed to maintain normal “barrier” function of skin and mucous membranes, thereby preventing entry of viruses. Normal levels improve immunity and disease resistance.14,23,29,37-38
  • vitamin D – Improves immunity and may enhance response to vaccinations.14,23,37,39
  • zinc – normal zinc status lowers the risk of pneumonia by nearly 50% 40 and decreases the incidence, duration and severity of upper respiratory infections and pneumonia.18,38,41,45 Improved zinc status also enhances the body’s response to vaccinations.11,29
  • selenium – Decreases the risk of respiratory tract infections. Improved selenium status also enhances the body’s response to vaccinations.11,18,35,42-43

If you are not getting these target doses in your multiple vitamin, then add them separately OR switch to a better multiple vitamin/mineral formula. You can take a lot of “separate stuff” to achieve immune-boosting “target doses” of nutrients, but why would you want to work that hard?

SHAMELESS PITCH HERE: my own Maxi Multi’s contain target doses of all these immune-boosting nutrients. Check to see how your multiple stacks up: Optimal Doses of Vitamins and Minerals for Good Health (scroll to the vitamin and mineral charts toward the bottom of the page)

II.) Supplement with additional immune-boosting herbs. For additional protection, add an immune-enhancing formula throughout the colder months (recommended November through April). There are literally hundreds of herbs that can be used to strengthen the immune system. Some work better — and some work MUCH better — than others.

I’ve put together my own formula of the most “tried and true” (and proven) immune enhancing herbs including Echinacea, astragalus, medicinal mushrooms (Maitake, Shiitake, Reishi), Ligustrum, Goldenseal and Garlic. Learn more about my Immune Support formula here:

I Guarantee You Won’t Get The Flu This Winter

I’m so confident that Immune Support formula, when used in combination with an optimal potency multiple like Maxi Multi, will help you avoid the flu that I offer a “guaranteed no flu this Winter” money-back guarantee. How confident is that?! Did your local doctor promise if you got a flu shot you wouldn’t get the flu or your money back? (Hahahaha….) See my “No Flu for You” Guarantee here

And for Goodness sakes, don’t wait until you feel fever and chills coming on to start taking supplements or eating better (although even late in the game, studies show you can shorten the severity and duration of a winter infection). Prevention is surer and safer than cure, and looks to me to be surer and safer than the flu vaccine, too!

In Health,

Dr. Myatt

References

  1. J. Dushoff, J. Plotkin, Cc Viboud, D. Earn, L. Simonsen. Mortality due to Influenza in the United States—An Annualized Regression Approach Using Multiple-Cause Mortality Data. American Journal of Epidemiology 2006 163(2):181-187
  2. Molinari NA, Ortega-Sanchez IR, Messonnier ML, Thompson WW, Wortley PM, Weintraub E, Bridges CB. The annual impact of seasonal influenza in the US: measuring disease burden and costs. Vaccine. 2007 Jun 28;25(27):5086-96. Epub 2007 Apr 20.
  3. Demicheli V, Rivetti D, Deeks JJ, Jefferson TO. Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;3: CD001269.
  4. The Flu. US Food and Drug Administration Fact Sheet, Aug. 2005.
  5. Lowen AC, Mubareka S, Steel J, Palese P (2007) Influenza Virus Transmission Is Dependent on Relative Humidity and Temperature. PLoS Pathog 3(10): e151. doi:10.1371/journal.ppat.0030151
  6. Sanchez A, et al. Role of sugars in human neutrophilic phagocytosis. Am J Clin Nutr 1973; 26: 1180-84
  7. Van Oss CJ. Influence of glucose levels on the in vitro phagocytosis of bacteria by human neutrophils. Infect Immun. 1971 Jul;4(1):54-9.
  8. Ringsdorf WM jr, Cheraskin E and Ramsey RR jr. Sucrose, Neutrophilic Phagocytosis, and Resistance to Disease. Dent Surv 1976; 52 (12): 46-48
  9. Sanchez A, et al. Role of sugars in human neutrophilic phagocytosis. Am J Clin Nutr 1973; 26: 1180-84
  10. Ringsdorf WM jr, Cheraskin E and Ramsey RR jr. Sucrose, Neutrophilic Phagocytosis, and Resistance to Disease. Dent Surv 1976; 52 (12): 46-48
  11. Girodon F, Galan P, Monget AL, Boutron-Ruault MC, Brunet-Lecomte P, Preziosi P, Arnaud J, Manuguerra JC, Herchberg S. Impact of trace elements and vitamin supplementation on immunity and infections in institutionalized elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial. MIN. VIT. AOX. geriatric network. Arch Intern Med. 1999 Apr 12;159(7):748-54.
  12. Langkamp-Henken B, Bender BS, Gardner EM, Herrlinger-Garcia KA, Kelley MJ, Murasko DM, Schaller JP, Stechmiller JK, Thomas DJ, Wood SM. Nutritional formula enhanced immune function and reduced days of symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection in seniors. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2004 Jan;52(1):3-12.
  13. Winkler P, de Vrese M, Laue Ch, Schrezenmeir J. ffect of a dietary supplement containing probiotic bacteria plus vitamins and minerals on common cold infections and cellular immune parameters. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Jul;43(7):318-26.
  14. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Contribution of selected vitamins and trace elements to immune function. Ann Nutr Metab. 2007;51(4):301-23. Epub 2007 Aug 28.
  15. Beck MA, Handy J, Levander OA. Host nutritional status: the neglected virulence factor. Trends Microbiol. 2004 Sep;12(9):417-23.
  16. Beck MA. Nutritionally induced oxidative stress: effect on viral disease. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Jun;71(6 Suppl):1676S-81S.
  17. Chandra RK. Impact of nutritional status and nutrient supplements on immune responses and incidence of infection in older individuals. Ageing Res Rev. 2004 Jan;3(1):91-104.
  18. High KP. Nutritional strategies to boost immunity and prevent infection in elderly individuals. Clin Infect Dis. 2001 Dec 1;33(11):1892-900. Epub 2001 Oct 25.
  19. Sebastian RS, Cleveland LE, Goldman JD, Moshfegh AJ.Older adults who use vitamin/mineral supplements differ from nonusers in nutrient intake adequacy and dietary attitudes. J Am Diet Assoc. 2007 Aug;107(8):1322-32.
  20. Chandra RK. Nutrition and immunology: from the clinic to cellular biology and back again. Proc Nutr Soc. 1999 Aug;58(3):681-3.
  21. Maggini S, Wintergerst ES, Beveridge S, Hornig DH. Selected vitamins and trace elements support immune function by strengthening epithelial barriers and cellular and humoral immune responses. Br J Nutr. 2007 Oct;98 Suppl 1:S29-35.
  22. Harbige LS. Nutrition and immunity with emphasis on infection and autoimmune disease. Nutr Health. 1996;10(4):285-312.
  23. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Contribution of selected vitamins and trace elements to immune function. Ann Nutr Metab. 2007;51(4):301-23. Epub 2007 Aug 28.
  24. Wouters-Wesseling W, Rozendaal M, Snijder M, Graus Y, Rimmelzwaan G, De Groot L, Bindels J. Effect of a complete nutritional supplement on antibody response to influenza vaccine in elderly people. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2002 Sep;57(9):M563-6.
  25. Sasazuki S, Sasaki S, Tsubono Y, Okubo S, Hayashi M, Tsugane S.Effect of vitamin C on common cold: randomized controlled trial.Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 Jan;60(1):9-17.
  26. Van Straten M, Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. Adv Ther. 2002 May-Jun;19(3):151-9.
  27. Carr AB, Einstein R, Lai LY, Martin NG, Starmer GA. Vitamin C and the common cold: using identical twins as controls. Med J Aust. 1981 Oct 17;2(8):411-2.
  28. Anderson TW, Beaton GH, Corey P, Spero L. Winter illness and vitamin C: the effect of relatively low doses. Can Med Assoc J. 1975 Apr 5;112(7):823-6.
  29. Romieu I. Nutrition and lung health. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 2005 Apr;9(4):362-74.
  30. Meydani SN, Han SN, Hamer DH. Vitamin E and respiratory infection in the elderly. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004 Dec;1031:214-22.
  31. Meydani SN, Leka LS, Fine BC, Dallal GE, Keusch GT, Singh MF, Hamer DH. Vitamin E and respiratory tract infections in elderly nursing home residents: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2004 Aug 18;292(7):828-36.
  32. Meydani SN, Han SN, Wu D. Vitamin E and immune response in the aged: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications. Immunol Rev. 2005 Jun;205:269-84.
  33. Han SN, Meydani M, Wu D, Bender BS, Smith DE, Viña J, Cao G, Prior RL, Meydani SN. Effect of long-term dietary antioxidant supplementation on influenza virus infection. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2000 Oct;55(10):B496-503.
  34. Meydani SN, Meydani M, Blumberg JB, Leka LS, Siber G, Loszewski R, Thompson C, Pedrosa MC, Diamond RD, Stollar BD. Vitamin E supplementation and in vivo immune response in healthy elderly subjects. A randomized controlled trial. Vitamin E supplementation and in vivo immune response in healthy elderly subjects. A randomized controlled trial.
  35. Beck MA. Selenium and vitamin E status: impact on viral pathogenicity. J Nutr. 2007 May;137(5):1338-40.
  36. van der Horst-Graat JM, Kok FJ, Schouten EG. Plasma carotenoid concentrations in relation to acute respiratory infections in elderly people. Br J Nutr. 2004 Jul;92(1):113-8
  37. Mora JR, Iwata M, von Andrian UH. Vitamin effects on the immune system: vitamins A and D take centre stage. Nat Rev Immunol. 2008 Aug 8. [Epub ahead of print]
  38. Molina EL, Patel JA. A to Z: vitamin A and zinc, the miracle duo.Indian J Pediatr. 1996 Jul-Aug;63(4):427-31.
  39. Hayes CE, Nashold FE, Spach KM, Pedersen LB.The immunological functions of the vitamin D endocrine system. Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand). 2003 Mar;49(2):277-300.
  40. Meydani SN, Barnett JB, Dallal GE, Fine BC, Jacques PF, Leka LS, Hamer DH. Serum zinc and pneumonia in nursing home elderly.Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Oct;86(4):1167-73.
  41. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc and effect on clinical conditions. Ann Nutr Metab. 2006;50(2):85-94. Epub 2005 Dec 21.
  42. Beck MA. Antioxidants and viral infections: host immune response and viral pathogenicity. J Am Coll Nutr. 2001 Oct;20(5 Suppl):384S-388S; discussion 396S-397S.
  43. Beck MA. Selenium and host defence towards viruses. Proc Nutr Soc. 1999 Aug;58(3):707-11.
  44. Burton A. Fewer colds with increased vitamin E intake. Lancet Infect Dis. 2004 Oct;4(10):600.
  45. Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc and effect on clinical conditions. Ann Nutr Metab. 2006;50(2):85-94. Epub 2005 Dec 21.

Food Allergy Testing

Is Food Making You Sick?

Food allergies are a common cause or contributor to a surprising number of diseases and symptoms. Many people with unexplained symptoms never learn that a food allergy can be the source of much misery, and conventional medicine rarely explores the food allergy/disease connection. Learn more about how food allergies can cause disease by visiting our food allergy page.

Untitled Document

One Step FOB Test Strip for feces (Revised Jan. 30th, 2001)

Intended Use The one step FOB (Occult Blood) test is a simple one step immuno-chromatographic assay for the rapid, qualitative detection of human occult blood in feces.

Explanation of the Test: The FOB test is designed to detect lower levels of fecal occult blood than standard guaiac tests. The basis of the test is an immuno-chromatographic sandwich capture method, which yields results that appear more specific to human occult blood and are easier to interpret than those of guaiac-based devices. In addition, unlike guaiac assays, the accuracy of the OB test is not affected by interfering substances and does not depend on the status of the patient at the time the specimen is taken.

The Fecal Occult Blood Test employs a unique combination of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies to selectively identify occult blood in test samples with a high degree of sensitivity. Elevated levels of human occult blood as low as 25 ng/ml can be detected.

Precautions The One Step FOBtest kit should be stored at room temperature 4-30oC (40-86oF). The test device is sensitive to humidity and as well as to heat. Perform the test immediately after removing the test device from the foil pouch. Do not use it beyond the expiration date.

Warnings 1. For in vitro diagnostic use only. 2. Do not eat or smoke while handling specimens. 3. Wear protective gloves while handling specimens. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards. 4. Avoid splashing or aerosol formation. 5. Clean up spills thoroughly using an appropriate disinfectant. 6. Decontaminate and dispose of all specimens, reaction kits and potentially contaminated materials, as if they were infectious waste, in a biohazard container. 7. Do not use the test kit if the pouch is damaged or the seal is broken.

Specimen preparation 1. Specimen collection should not be performed during or within three days of a menstrual period, or if the patient suffers from bleeding hemorrhoids or blood in the urine, false-positive test results may be obtained. 2. Dietary restrictions are not necessary. 3. Alcohol, aspirin and other medications taken in excess may cause gastrointestinal irritation resulting in occult bleeding. Such substances should be discontinued at least 48 hours prior to testing.

Specimen collection 1. Unscrew the top of the sample collection device and use the sample collection stick to collect stool sample by dipping the stick into 3 different places of the same stool sample. 2. Put the sample collection stick containing the sample back in the sample collection device and screw it tightly. Shake it very well. 3. It is recommended that the above Step 1 to Step 2 to be repeated for three consecutive days.

Procedure of the test 1. Remove the test strip from its foil pouch. 2. After collecting stool samples for three consecutive days, bring the sample collection device to room temperature. Then shake the device several times. 3. Break off the tip of the collection device and squeeze 2 drops of the extracted sample on the sample pad (Figure 1). 4. Interpret test results at 5 to 10 minutes.

Caution: The above interpretation time is based on reading the test results at room temperature of 15 to 30 oC. If your room temperature is significantly lower than 15 oC, then the interpretation time should be properly increased.

Interpretation of the test 1. A color band will appear at the left section of the result window to show that the test is working properly. This band is the Control Band. 2. The right section of the result window indicates the test results. If another color band appears at the right section of the result window, this band is Test Band.

Positive Result: The presence of two color bands (“C” and “T” bands) within the result window no matter, which band appears first indicates a positive result (Figure 2).

Negative Result: The presence of only one purple color (“C”) band within the result window indicates a negative result (Figure 2).

Invalid result: After performing the test and no purple color band is visible within the result window, this result is considered invalid. The directions may not have been followed correctly or the test may have deteriorated. It is recommended that the specimen be re-tested (Figure 2).

Note: Once a positive result has been established (after 10 minutes), the result will not change. However, in order to prevent any incorrect results, the test result should not be interpreted after 10 minutes. Interpreting test results after 10 minutes, the sensitivity of the test will be higher than 25 ng/ml..

Limitations of the test The presence of blood in stools may be other than colorectal bleeding, such as hemorrhoids, blood in urine or stomach irritations. Negative results do not exclude bleeding since it can be intermittent. Colorectal polyps at very early stages may not bleed. Other clinically available tests are required if questionable results are obtained. As with all diagnostic tests, a definitive clinical diagnosis should not be based on the results of a single test, but should only be made by the physician after all clinical and laboratory findings have been evaluated.

References 1. Bahrt KM, Korman LY, and Nashel DJ, “Significance of a Positive Test for Occult Blood in Stools of Patients Taking Anti-inflammatory Drugs,” Arch Intern Med, 1984, 144:2165-6. 2. Blebea J and McPherson RA, “False-Positive Guaiac Testing With Iodine,” Arch Pathol Lab Med, 1985, 109:437-40. 3. Block GE, “Colon Cancer: Diagnosis and Prognosis in the Elderly,” Geriatrics, 1989, 44(5):45-7, 52-3. 4. Doyle AC, “A Study in Scarlet,” Philadelphia, PA: JB Lippincott Co, 1902. 5. Fleischer DE, Goldberg SB, Browning TH, et al, “Detection and Surveillance of Coleorectal Cancer,” JAMA, 1989, 261(4):580-5.

http://www.meditests.com/t-misc2.html

Natural Fertility Treatment

With
Reproductive Immunologist
Dr Jeff Braverman Dr. Braverman Specializing in the correction of conditions that lead to Recurrent Miscarriages and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) Jeffrey Braverman, MD
Medical Director BIRMS

Dr. Dana Myatt is pleased to welcome the valued addition of Dr. Jeff Braverman to the Wellness Club team of medical experts. Dr. Myatt and Dr. Braverman will be combining the very best of conventional and natural medicine in the treatment of infertility.

About Dr. Braverman

Dr. Braverman is currently the Director of Reproductive Immunology at Wyckoff Hospital in Brooklyn New York (an affiliate hospital of Columbia Presbyterian Hospital System). He is also the Medical Director at Braverman Reproductive Immunology with offices in Long Island and Manhattan. He formerly held the position of Medical Director of SIRM on Long Island.

Dr. Braverman was honored as the youngest graduate at New York University where he was accepted at the age of 14. He went on to attend Medical School at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan and completed his internship and residency at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine in New York.

After completing his residency Dr. Braverman established a private medical practice in Long Island, New York. For more than 20 years, Dr. Braverman has been treating patients with all complications related to Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and has become one of the nation’s leading authorities in the field of Reproductive Immunology.

A large majority of Dr. Braverman’s patients come to him suffering from Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Failure to Initiate and Successfully Complete a Pregnancy. (RPL and FISCP). He has managed thousands of cycles of IUI and IVF and has consistently maintained one of the highest success rates in New York despite the complexity of his case load.

For the last two years his practice has been voted the Best Infertility Practice on Long Island in an internet poll conducted by the Long Island Press.

Dr. Braverman has published articles in the field of high risk obstetrics related to IUGR, Gestational Diabetes, and Fetal Distress and has gained unequaled experience managing as well as delivering this High Risk group of patients. In fact Dr. Braverman has delivered well over 5000 babies in his career .

He has been featured with his RPL autoimmune patients on Discovery Channel’s Baby Story, local TV news stations, and has hosted numerous radio shows on reproductive immunology and fertility. He assists and consults with patients from around the world with problems related to RPL and FISCP. He has designed the most complete panel for the diagnosis and management of immune related pregnancy complications, as well as one of the most comprehensive thrombophilia (blood clotting) panels available. He is currently assisting in designing a computer chip that will test DNA for most of the hundreds of known genetic defects associated with RPL. He assisted in the Fertility Project for the development of nutritional supplements now used for the treatment of RPL and FISCP.

His current office staff have all been part of his practice for at least 12 years and most longer than that. This has also been one of the most important elements in maintaining the consistency Dr. Braverman’s care. You will always get someone knowledgeable when you call the office. Dr. Braverman performs all his own consults and sonograms. You will never get a “fill in “when you call for a consult or come in for a visit. He manages every case from start to finish. Most patients have his cell phone number and email and feel free to contact him with any questions. Many of Dr. Braverman’s patients from around the country learn about him in numerous immunology and fertility chat rooms on the internet, where he has developed a loyal following.

Dr. Braverman is a member in good standing with the American Society of Reproductive Immunology, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the European Society of Reproductive Immunology, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the New York State Medical Society, the Nassau County Medical Society and is actively Board Certified from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. BravermanHelping Couples Achieve the Gift of ChildrenDr. Jeff Braverman is available to consult and discuss any of your infertility issues. His specialty is immunologic causes of recurrent pregnancy loss as well as the diagnosis and treatment  of previously  failed infertility cycles.
Visit Dr. Braverman’s website here

Dr. Braverman’s offices in Manhattan and Long Island, NY may be reached at (516) 584 8710

Natural Fertility Strategies

With Dr. Dana Myatt

Dr. Dana Myat - America's Natural Health CoachDANA MYATT, N.M.D.

Member: American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (eligible)
President: ECAFH Foundation, Inc. (Exploring Complementary Answers for Health)
Chief Medical Officer: The Wellness Club
Author: A Physicians Diary
Professor: Atlantic University
Graduate: National College of Naturopathic Medicine

Dr. Dana Myatt is no ordinary doctor. As a naturopathic family physician, her career has been a “first” in many respects.

Dr. Myatt is a graduate of The National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon. As the first naturopathic physician on staff at the A.R.E. Clinic, she served as Director of Medical Residencies, supervising the training of doctors, nurses and medical students in holistic healing techniques. She was also the first naturopathic doctor at the Scottsdale Holistic Medical Group.

She has guest lectured at Bastyr College, National College, Southwest College, Saint Joseph’s Medical Center, St. Mary Pia Cancer Center, and Eastern Virginia College of Medicine to name a few. Dr. Myatt is Professor of Holistic Health at Atlantic University, where she developed the Holistic Health Correspondence Curriculum for the University.

Her book “A Physician’s Diary : Cured Cases With Edgar Cayce and Other Natural Remedies” was chosen as a sponsoring member benefit of the Association for Research and Enlightenment.

Currently, in addition to private practice, Dr. Myatt presents workshops and seminars on complementary medicine to physicians, university students, and the general public worldwide.

Dr. Myatt was one of the first doctors to practice “telemedicine” (medicine by telephone). Her expertise in conventional & natural medicine is now available to you by phone.

A Brief Telephone Consultation with Dr. Myatt can answer many of your questions about diet and supplements and how these can be used to compliment your other fertility and conception related treatments.

More intensive consultation is available for those with complicated situations or who simply wish to have Dr. Myatt create a Comprehensive Fertility Optimization Program designed especially for you.

You may be investing tens of thousands of dollars in cutting edge fertility treatments, reproductive immunology services, and IVF procedures – it just makes sense to invest a little more to ensure that your body is as healthy and receptive as possible for this most important experience of your life. Call now – 1-800-376-9288 to book your Brief Consultation and get started on the road to optimal health and fertility.

 The Fertility Project


Bringing You A Synergy Of Conventional and Natural Approaches To Infertility Treatment

Fertility Restore is a collaborative project of Dr. Jeffrey Braverman, Reproductive Immunologist and Medical Director of Braverman Immunologic and Reproductive Medical Services and Dr. Dana Myatt, holistic physician, Chief Medical Officer of Dr. Myatt’s Wellness Club, and naturopathic researcher and educator.

With over 20 years of successful infertility treatment experience, Dr. Braverman has personally witnessed the beneficial effects that a naturopathic approach brings to his patients.

With the goal of offering the very best in natural treatment adjuncts to his patients, Dr. Braverman sought out the best minds in naturopathic medicine – and the collaboration between Dr. Braverman and Dr. Myatt was born.

With the experience gained from having overseen thousands of infertility treatment cycles and his knowledge of reproductive immunology combined with a number of successful experiences with vitamins, herbs, diet, and other natural treatments for infertility Dr. Braverman realized that a more exacting, clinical, and even scientific approach to natural treatments would bring greater benefits and increased success to his patients. Dr. Myatt brings that scientific, research-based approach, along with her extensive knowledge of herbs, vitamins, ancient Chinese and Eastern medicine, diet and a holistic, naturopathic approach to endocrinology and immunology to the partnership.

While there are plenty of supplements available to consumers which claim to be formulated to support fertility and pregnancy, none properly addressed the unique needs of men and women with infertility challenges to the satisfaction of either Dr. Braverman or Dr. Myatt, and none satisfied Dr. Myatt’s demanding standards for quality, purity, potency and formulation. Some even contained ingredients that might be harmful to fertility, conception, pregnancy or an unborn child in some cases! Consequently, Braverman and Myatt have worked together to develop a number of natural supplement products tailored specifically to target the unique needs of pre and peri-conceptual couples who are dealing with fertility issues.

These top-quality, specialized formulas bring increased hope to infertile couples, and we invite you to learn more about our specialized fertility supplements.

Please visit our Natural Fertility Knowledge Center for information on fertility related topics – discussed from a natural viewpoint.

You can learn more about Dr. Braverman here.

You can learn more about Dr. Myatt here.

Dr. Jeff Braverman is available to consult and discuss any of your infertility issues. His specialty is immunologic causes of recurrent pregnancy loss as well as the diagnosis and treatment  of previously  failed infertility cycles.