Category: Health Concerns

Water


What You Should Know (But Have Not been Told) About Your Drinking Water

  • Water is essential for good health
  • your drinking and bathing water may be contaminated
  • water contaminants are linked to a wide variety of illnesses
  • how you can protect yourself from impure water

Every Body Needs Water

57-70% of adult human body weight is water. Every cell in the body is dependent on water for survival and optimal function. Consider a few of the many important functions of body water:

  • maintenance of normal skin tone (dehydrated skin appears wrinkled
  • maintenance of normal bowel function (lack of water is a common cause of constipation
  • maintenance of normal urinary tract function (lack of water can lead to urinary tract infection, urinary frequency, kidney stones and bladder cancer)
  • maintenance of normal muscle tone
  • maintenance of normal fluid balance (dehydration leads to water retention; sufficient water acts as a diuretic)
  • maintenance of normal digestion (many nutrients are transported via the body’s water)
  • elimination of toxins (lungs, kidneys, skin and intestinal tract all depend on water for eliminative functions)
  • joints require sufficient water to make the “jello” (glycosaminoglycands) that provide cushioning

Aquasana Shower Filters

Your Best Bet for Safe Drinking Water

Your best bet for safe, clean drinking water is install an under-sink or countertop water purifier. The reverse-osmosis type is very reliable. If you don’t want to invest the money to do that, a simple pitcher with a charcoal filter is better than most bottled water. You can see how different systems stack up with this brand comparison chart.

And don’t forget your shower-water! When you’re hot (and your skin’s pores are wide-open), you can absorb toxins from the water. Shower filters are inexpensive and reliable.

For maximum protection, whole house water filters are the ultimate safeguard against water-borne toxins and impurities. These are not inexpensive but they offer great peace of mind.

A Good Water Filter is a Cheap Investment in Your Health

A reliable, highly-effective under-sink water filter is an excellent health investment, especially when you consider how important water is to health. The human body is about 60% water. That means we can have 60% of our total body weight contaminated with a variety of toxins if we drink lousy water.

The highest-rated water filters cost about the same as the cheap junk.

Aquasana Water Purifiers makes some of the highest-rated filters at the best prices.

Water Testing

Regular (annual) testing of your family’s drinking water is a wise investment in good health – especially if you are drinking municipal water that has been “treated”, flouridated and chlorinated! Well-water is also subject to contamination from a variety of sources and must be tested annually to ensure your family’s safety.

WEIGHT LOSS


The Skinny on Losing Weight for Good

Overweight and obesity have reached epidemic proportions in this country. The health hazards of overweight are enormous, and include increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, certain types of cancer, hormone imbalances, infertility, fatigue, and depression to name just a few. Regardless of your age, it is worthwhile to achieve and maintain a normal weight.

Causes of overweight are far more complex than simple overeating. (Although this will cause overweight!). Nutrient deficiencies, food allergies, low blood sugar, hormone imbalances, certain medications (especially hormones), food addictions and psychosocial issues can all play a role.

The “going line” from conventional medicine and nutrition is to eat a diet high in unrefined carbohydrates. While a few very high metabolism people and those who exercise extensively can “get away with” this kind of diet, high carbohydrate diets are actually the leading cause of overweight and obesity. High carbohydrates in the diet also accelerate the aging process and predispose to cancer, diabetes, heart disease and autoimmune conditions, to name just a few.

There are two basic strategies for losing weight: one is to decrease total calories, the other is to decrease total carbohydrates. The best examples of both these diets are the Pritiken and Atkins’ diets, respectively. Of the two, a lower carbohydrate diet is healthier for many reasons.

No matter what type of weight loss diet you choose, eating whole foods is important. Refined foods are devoid of nutrients but high in calories. Such foods provide enough calories to make one fat, but not enough of the nutrients that allow metabolism to burn brightly. When metabolism is low, you will continue to crave foods in an attempt to find physical energy. The high-starch, high-sugar foods that give quick energy ultimately further deplete the body of nutrients. The process becomes a vicious cycle.

If you need to lose weight, My Super Fast Dietis not only fast, it is also extremely healthy. You’ve been told that fast weight loss is unhealthy, but that’s a Big Fat Lie. When done correctly, fast weight loss can be incredibly healthy, both emotionally and physically.

Of course, if you have other physical imbalances such as low thyroid function or a sluggish liver, these must be addressed to ensure success. Some people can use herbs to increase metabolism, but these can cause problems in people with high blood pressure and so should be used judiciously with medical guidance.

“Miracle cures” for overweight are non-existent, although matching the right diet and supplement program to the individual can achieve what often appears “miraculous.”  Supplements such as the mineral chromium have been found to be indispensable when a person is chromium deficient, but have little effect when someone isn’t deficient. HCA (Hydroxycitric Acid) results in some modest increases in overall weight loss, but the results of this are weak at best. There is no “magic formula,” but again, the results can seem like magic when we custom-tailor the program to an individual.

Exercise is an important factor in weight loss, not only for its calorie-burning benefit but also because it increases metabolism. A muscular person at rest burns more calories than a fat person at rest. Exercises also decreases appetite and increases “feel good” hormone levels. This serves as a natural appetite suppressant and anti-depressant. Most people who are successful with weight loss and long-term maintenance rely on exercise as an important part of their program. As you’ll learn in The Super Fast Diet, it only takes 10-15 minutes per day of correctly performed exercise to accomplish major metabolic and weight-loss improvements.

In spite of the fact that reported long-term attempts at weight loss have a high failure rate, the number of “successful losers” in my practice is quite high. And these people have not only lost excess weight, many of them have corrected their diabetes, normalized their blood pressure, reversed their heart disease, eliminated their arthritis and avoided a whole host of future problems that overweight and obesity can cause.

If you are sincere in your desire to achieve and maintain a normal weight, and do so in the most healthful, easiest way, I can show you how. Not by any “cookie cutter” diet, but by an individualized program that I guarantee will work for you if you will follow it. (And I’m not talking about following starvation diets or eating bland, strange food. You will like the way you can eat). If your self-help measures and “other diets” have failed, give me a call to schedule a telephone consult. I can help you lose weight easily, healthfully, and once-and-for all.

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Have a complete physical exam, including blood work, if you have not had one in the past year. it is a good idea to know your “starting place” as you begin your program. If you are over 40, are more than 50 pounds overweight, or have a history of heart disease, be sure that this includes and EKG.
  • Exercise regularly, preferably daily. Begin with 15 minutes per day of walking if you are more than 50 pounds overweight or are not used to exercising. The “Super Fast” exercise program as outlined in The Super Fast Diet will show you how to get maximal benefit in minimal time.
  • Drink 48 ounces of pure water daily. The blood becomes more acidic as you break down fat; water helps to keep this dilute and puts less stress on the kidneys.
  • Watch my “Body/Mind Connection” video at least 3 times. This tape will teach you how to use your thoughts to program yourself for success. It will also show you where and how you may be currently blocking your progress, and how to change that.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi Overweight people have at least one, and usually many more, nutrient deficiencies. Plus, dieting itself can contribute to deficiencies. Make sure that you take an optimal potency multiple formula, not a minimal potency formula.
  • Multi-B-Complex: 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals (If you are taking Maxi Multis for your multiple, the extra B Complex vitamins are not necessary).
  • CoQ10: 50mg, 1-3 times per day with meals
    AND
  • Hypericum (St. John’s Wort): 1 cap (450mg), 2 times per day between meals
    OR
  • 5-Hydroxy-Tryptophan (5-HTP): 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals

Additional Support

  • L-Carnitine: 500-1,000mg, 2-3 times per day with meals
  • Treat any other organ system that scored “high” on the Self-Health Questionnaire

With high cholesterol:

With low thyroid function:

With low adrenal function:

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

Weight loss success is not difficult, it’s just a matter of knowing the correct thing to do. Your health will benefit greatly from achievement of a normal weight.

Whey Protein

Boost Immunity with Nature’s Superior Protein

Whey protein provides a biologically superior protein with natural immune factors, including lactoferrin and immunoglobulins.

In cancer medicine, whey has been found to offer “considerable protection to the host” over that of other types of protein, including soy, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. At low concentrations, whey inhibits the growth of breast cell cancer. Whey also protects cellular glutathione (a body-produced antioxidant) in normal cells during radiation therapy. This effect is not seen with other proteins.

For those with weak immune systems, or people who need to gain weight, whey is an easy way to get high quality protein and immune factors. For those on weight-loss diets, whey (such as a “Super Shake” below), makes a low calorie, low carb, high nutrient meal replacement. Try my recipe — it really tastes like an ice-cream milkshake!

Whey protein is beneficial for:

  • weight loss programs
  • weight and muscle gain programs
  • immune function
  • cancer
  • liver disease

My SuperShake recipe can be found here, and is a perfect way to get all of the benefits of whey and more!

Hot Chocolate

1 scoop chocolate whey
8 ounces hot water
1 scoop L-glutamine
(optional, for weight gain or GI repair)
To make
Heat water. Stir in whey powder. Drink. Enjoy.

Apple Pan Dowdy Pudding

2 scoops vanilla whey
2 tsps. Ez-Fiber
2 tsps. ground flax seed
Optional
1 scoop L-glutamine
1/8 cup chopped nuts
1 chopped apple
To make
Combine above ingredients. Add 8 ounces hot water. Stir. Put in cups. Enjoy hot or cold. Makes 2 servings.

Syntrax Vanilla Whey

Vanilla WheyThis Whey Powder Is A Great Combination Of High Quality And Economical Price.

Sustained-Release Protein Blend
Undenatured Whey Protein, Micellar Casein & Egg Albumin
Vital Nutrition for Health & Recovery
Best Tasting Protein…Guaranteed
Glutamine Peptides
Mixes Instantly
Aspartame Free

Perfect For Low Carb Dieters!

Syntrax VANILLA Whey
Product # 8050 (2.17 lbs or about 36 servings) $39.97

Syntrax CHOCOLATE Whey
Product # 8051 ((2.17 lbs or about 36 servings) $39.97

Syntrax Vanilla Whey

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Level Scoop (30 g)
Servings per Container: 30
Amount Per Serving% Daily Value
Calories110
Calories from Fat15
Total Fat1.5 g2%
Saturated Fat1 g5%
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol40 mg13%
Sodium80 mg3%
Potassium200 mg6%
Total Carbohydrates2 g1%
Dietary Fiber0 g0%
Sugars2 g
Protein23 g46%
Vitamin A0%
Vitamin C0%
Calcium15%
Iron0%
Phosphorus10%
Magnesium6%
Important Amino Acids Per 100 Grams of Protein
Arginine2.5 g*
Glutamine8.4 g*
Histidine2.1 g*
Isoleucine5.8 g*
Leucine10.3 g*
Lysine8.7 g*
Methionine2.2 g*
Phenylalanine3.6 g*
Threonine6.4 g*
Tryptophan1.9 g*
Valine6 g*
*Daily value not established.
Other Ingredients: Protein blend (whey protein concentrate, milk protein concentrate, egg albumin, hydrolyzed wheat gluten), natural and artificial flavors, soy lecithin, salt, acesulfame-K, sucralose.

Syntrax Chocolate Whey

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Level Scoop (32 g)
Servings per Container: 31
Amount Per Serving% Daily Value
Calories120
Calories from Fat20
Total Fat2 g3%
Saturated Fat1 g5%
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol40 mg13%
Sodium130 mg5%
Potassium280 mg8%
Total Carbohydrates3 g1%
Dietary Fiber1 g4%
Sugars2 g
Protein23 g46%
Vitamin A0%
Vitamin C0%
Calcium15%
Iron4%
Phosphorus10%
Magnesium8%
Important Amino Acids Per 100 Grams of Protein
Arginine2.5 g*
Glutamine8.4 g*
Histidine2.1 g*
Isoleucine5.8 g*
Leucine10.3 g*
Lysine8.7 g*
Methionine2.2 g*
Phenylalanine3.6 g*
Threonine6.4 g*
Tryptophan1.9 g*
Valine6 g*
*Daily value not established.
Other Ingredients: Protein blend (whey protein concentrate, milk protein concentrate, egg albumin, hydrolyzed wheat gluten), dutch processed cocoa powder, natural and artificial flavors, soy lecithin, salt, acesulfame-K, sucralose.

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! 

 

Soy (Glycine max)


Hormone, Bone Health and Cholesterol Balance

Soy isoflavoneSoy and its major components daidzein and genistein, has estrogenic effects and can acts as an  estrogen-modulator in both men and women. Soy also has cholesterol-lowering, antioxidant and anti-cancer effects.

Soy has been shown to:

  • lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
    (a health claim allowed by the FDA) 24-27
  • exert anti-cancer effects (may help prevent and even treat cancer, especially breast and prostate cancer) 10-23
  • lower cholesterol levels 1-9
  • increase bone density and decrease bone mineral loss 28-33
  • improve insulin sensitivity 34-35
  • improve menopausal symptoms 36-40
  • possess antioxidant properties 41-45

Soy may therefore be useful in:

  • Cancer prevention and treatment
  • Heart disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Menopause symptoms
  • Osteoporosis prevention and treatment

Allergy to soy can cause bowel gas and discomfort; raw soy products may inhibit thyroid function. In sensitive individuals, the benefits of soy may be obtained and the GI effects avoided by using the purified soy capsules.

Soy Extract (Isoflavone-250) Soy Isoflavones Benefit Both Women & Men

Beneficial substances in soy, (isoflavones, diadzen, and genisteins) have been shown to lower cholesterol levels, normalize male and female hormone balance, and prevent cancer. Soy is also used in the treatment of cancer, especially prostate and some types of breast cancers. (Physician guidance highly recommended here as soy can increase hormone levels when this is not desired).

Suggested dose: 1cap, once or twice per day with a meal. Higher doses may be used if needed to relieve menopausal hot flashes or as recommended by a physician for treatment of cancer or cholesterol levels.

References:

1.) Xiao CW, Mei J, Wood CM. Effect of soy proteins and isoflavones on lipid
metabolism and involved gene expression. Front Biosci. 2008 Jan
1;13:2660-73.
2.) Taku K, Umegaki K, Sato Y, Taki Y, Endoh K, Watanabe S. Soy isoflavones lower serum total and LDL cholesterol in humans: a meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Apr;85(4):1148-56.
3.) Torres N, Torre-Villalvazo I, Tovar AR. Regulation of lipid metabolism by
soy protein and its implication in diseases mediated by lipid disorders. J
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Isoflavone-rich soy protein isolate attenuates bone loss in the lumbar spine
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35.) Nordentoft I, Jeppesen PB, Hong J, Abudula R, Hermansen K. Increased Insulin Sensitivity and Changes in the Expression Profile of Key Insulin Regulatory Genes and Beta Cell Transcription Factors in Diabetic KKAy-Mice after Feeding with a Soy Bean Protein Rich Diet High in Isoflavone Content. J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Jun 4. [Epub ahead of print]
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Efficacy and safety of a soy isoflavone extract in postmenopausal women: a
randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study. Maturitas. 2007 Nov
20;58(3):249-58. Epub 2007 Oct 29.
38.) McCarty MF. Isoflavones made simple – genistein’s agonist activity for the
beta-type estrogen receptor mediates their health benefits. Med Hypotheses.
2006;66(6):1093-114. Epub 2006 Mar 2.
39.) Messina M, Hughes C. Efficacy of soyfoods and soybean isoflavone supplements for alleviating menopausal symptoms is positively related to initial hot flush frequency. J Med Food. 2003 Spring;6(1):1-11.
40.) Burke GL, Legault C, Anthony M, Bland DR, Morgan TM, Naughton MJ, Leggett K, Washburn SA, Vitolins MZ. Soy protein and isoflavone effects on vasomotor symptoms in peri- and postmenopausal women: the Soy Estrogen Alternative Study. Menopause. 2003 Mar-Apr;10(2):147-53.
41.) Bertipaglia de Santana M, Mandarino MG, et al. Association between soy and
green tea (Camellia sinensis) diminishes hypercholesterolemia and increases
total plasma antioxidant potential in dyslipidemic subjects. Nutrition. 2008
Jun;24(6):562-8.
42.) Kim NY, Song EJ, Kwon DY, Kim HP, Heo MY. Antioxidant and antigenotoxic activities of Korean fermented soybean. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Mar;46(3):1184-9. Epub 2007 Dec 8.
43.) Hämäläinen M, Nieminen R, Vuorela P, Heinonen M, Moilanen E. Anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoids: genistein, kaempferol, quercetin, and daidzein inhibit STAT-1 and NF-kappaB activations, whereas flavone, isorhamnetin, naringenin, and pelargonidin inhibit only NF-kappaB activation along with their inhibitory effect on iNOS expression and NO production in activated macrophages. Mediators Inflamm. 2007;2007:45673.
44.) Hu CC, Hsiao CH, Huang SY, Fu SH, Lai CC, Hong TM, Chen HH, Lu FJ. Antioxidant activity of fermented soybean extract. J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Sep 8;52(18):5735-9.
45.) Cai Q, Rahn RO, Zhang R. Dietary flavonoids, quercetin, luteolin and genistein, reduce oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation and quench free radicals. Cancer Lett. 1997 Oct 28;119(1):99-107.

 

STROKE / thrombosis / phlebitis


Natural Prevention Strategies

Stroke

The term “stroke” refers to a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) where the brain is deprived of oxygen due to blood vessel blockage (80% of strokes) OR  the rupture of a blood vessel which causes bleeding in the brain (20% of strokes). Either of these events deprives areas of the brain of oxygen and can lead to neurological damage. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a similar, smaller event, resolving in minutes to hours and without permanent damage. Recurrent TIA’s often precede a true stroke, and the causes of both are the same. Stroke (Cerebrovascular disease) is the most common cause of neurologic disability in Western countries.

Twenty percent of strokes are hemorrhagic, resulting from the rupture of a cerebral artery. Causes of hemorrhagic stroke include hypertension, aneurysm, blood vessel defects (inborn) and excess blood-thinning medication.

The remaining eighty percent of strokes are due to blockages resulting from emboli (a clump of blood cells or atherosclerotic plaque) in a cranial artery. Causes of infarct stroke are atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, excess blood-clotting factors (see “conditions predisposing to blood clot formation,” below), blood turbulence (due to arrhythmias, heart valve defects, arteriovenous malformation, and atherosclerosis), diabetes, and vascular inflammation.

A far lesser number of strokes may be due solely to lack of oxygen without a blockage, usually due to sympathomimetic drugs (cocaine, amphetamine), arterial compression caused by bone spurs, or circulatory insufficiency due to decreased overall circulation.

Thrombosis

“Thrombosis” refers to a blood clot that develops in a blood vessel. It is one of the leading causes of death in the Western world.

If a thrombosis forms in a coronary artery, a myocardial infarction may result. When thromboses form in the brain, the resultant oxygen deprivation may result in TIA or stroke. An emboli occurs when a clot breaks free and travels to other parts of the body. If an emboli reaches the brain, again, stroke may occur. Thromboses and emboli can also cause serious damage to lungs, kidneys — in fact, virtually any organ.

Phlebitis / Thrombophlebitis

“Thrombophlebitis,” or deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is the most common presenting vein disorder. Most vein clots begin in the valves of deep calf veins. Tissue substances are released that in turn form clumps of red blood cells (RBC’s). If these clumped blood cells remain in the leg or elsewhere, they cause redness, swelling, and pain. If they dislodge and travel to the brain, they can cause a stroke.

Causes of venous thrombosis include:

  1. Blood vessel lining injury (caused by catheters, septic phlebitis, injection of irritating substances, trauma).
  2. Excess blood clotting (due to malignant tumors, blood cell abnormalities, oral contraceptives and inflammation).
  3. Slowed blood flow (varicose veins, prolonged bed rest, heart failure, dependent immobilization of the legs such as occurs during car or air travel).

Factors which can cause blood clots

Specifically, any one of the following conditions may predispose to blood clot formation:

  • elevated homocysteine levels
  • oxidized LDL cholesterol levels
  • platelet activating factor (PAF)
  • elevated fibrinogen
  • elevated thromboxane A2, prostaglandin E2, lipooxygenase, cyclooxygenase
  • free-radical induced platelet aggregation
  • thrombin activating factor
  • deficiency of tissue-plasminogen activator (tPA)
  • increased blood viscosity
  • increased platelet count
  • increased red blood cell kinase activity
  • inflammation of the arterial wall
  • atherosclerotic plaque
  • elevated triglycerides
  • increased platelet adhesion
  • collagen-induced platelet adhesion
  • arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation
  • adenosine-induced platelet aggregation
  • epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation
  • serotonin-induced platelet aggregation
  • antigen-antibody reactions

Fibrin thrombi can be prevented by conventional anticoagulant therapy (heparin or coumarin / coumadin / warfarin compounds), but platelet aggregation is not inhibited by these agents. (Merck Manual p. 586). It is estimated that only 1/3 of all causative agents of thrombosis are blocked by the administration of conventional blood thinning drugs.

Treatment Considerations

Treatment of the underlying cause of thrombosis, and phlebitis which results in thrombosis, are the mainstays of prevention of stroke occurrence and reoccurrence. High blood pressure, high cholesterol (especially with low HDL- the “good” cholesterol), excessive blood clotting (“blood sludge”), and atherosclerosis should be addressed as indicated.  Because of the many and varied causes of thrombosis, a multi-faceted approach to anticoagulation and blood viscosity normalization is surer than conventional anticoagulant (coumadin) therapy alone.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Diet: eat a nutritious diet high in nutrient-rich foods. Plant foods contain phytonutrients which help prevent blood from clotting abnormally.
  • Achieve and maintain a normal weight.
  • Exercise regularly. 30 minutes, 3 times per week minimum.
  • Don’t smoke! Smoking irritates the blood vessel lining and such irritation initiates a chain of events that cause blood to clump.
  • Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily. Dehydration causes blood vessel irritation and can predispose to abnormal blood clotting.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidant nutrients (vitamin A, beta carotene, C, E, zinc, selenium), B6, B12, folic acid, bioflavonoids and magnesium are especially important. Magnesium helps prevent high blood pressure, a cause of stroke.    
  • Omega 3 fatty acids: the anti-inflammatory action of Omega-3’s helps prevent blood vessel irritation.
    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).

  • MAXI-GREENS: 3 caps, 3 times per day. Maxi greens contains a spectrum of the herbs known to maintain  normal blood viscosity. (grape seed, ginkgo, bilberry, green tea).

Additional Support

(Treat known risk factors. Consult an alternative medicine physician for further assistance):

High Cholesterol or Triglyceride levels:

Diabetes (which predisposes to atherosclerosis):

  • Follow additional recommendations for Diabetes

Atherosclerosis:

High fibrinogen:

High homocysteine levels:

  • B6, B12 and folic acid. (NOTE: Maxi Multi contains optimal doses of these nutrients. Take additional B6, B12 and folic acid only if you are not taking Maxi Multi, MyPacks or the equivalent).

High ferritin (storage iron):

  • Vitamin C: 5,000 mg per day in divided doses.
  • Grape seed extract: 150 mg per day. 

Primary Materia Medica for Stroke Prevention

(Professional descriptions follow. For laymen description of these same herbs, please refer to Twelve Important Herbs to Know )

The following list represents the most well-researched herbs for stroke prevention:

Garlic Allium sativa

Garlic is one of the most important cardiovascular botanicals and best documented blood-thinning agents.  It protects against collagen-induced, arachidonic acid-induced, ADP-induced, and epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation. Garlic inhibits cyclooxygenase and lipooxygenase-induced thromboxane A2 synthesis. Clinical studies have also documented garlic’s effectiveness in treating many factors involved in atherosclerosis, including high blood pressure, high LDL-cholesterol, and high triglycerides. Garlic decreases platelet aggregation while simultaneously increasing HDL cholesterol and fibrinolysis.

Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo exerts considerable effect on platelet aggregation, adhesion and degranulation. Specifically, ginkgo inhibits platelet activating factor (PAF) and reduces platelet aggregation induced by ADP, collagen, and arachidonic acid. It has membrane-stabilizing, antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects, and improves blood flow, oxygen and glucose utilization in the brain. Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) stimulates endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) and prostacycline.  In animal studies, GBE has shown to stimulate nerve cell regeneration, making it potentially useful both for stroke prevention and post-stroke treatment.

Turmeric Curcuma longa

Curcumin, the yellow pigment of Curcuma longa, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It inhibits platelet aggregation by inhibiting thromboxanes and leukotrienes and promoting the formation of prostacycline.

<Bromelain Anasas comosus

Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found primarily in the stem of the pineapple plant. It exerts antiinflammatory effects by inhibition of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Bromelain blocks production of kinnins and possesses fibrinolytic activity secondary to plasminogen activator, which may also account for the anti-metastatic properties seen in vivo.

Bilberry Vaccinium myrtillus

The flavonoids in Bilberry, specifically anthocyanosides, promote prostacycline production and inhibit platelet aggregation in a manner similar to ginkgo. The potent antioxidant effects seen in this herb stabilize the vascular system and are therefore useful in treating capillary fragility, venous insufficiency, and varicose veins.

Grape Seed Vitus vinifera

Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPC’s) from grape seed and other species, such as Landis’ pine, is one of the most potent antioxidants known. OPC’s trap reactive oxygen species including hydroxyl radicals, peroxyl radicals, and lipid radicals; they also delay the breakdown phase of lipid peroxidation. OPC’s inhibit platelet aggregation in part by raising cGMP levels and protecting against epinephrine renewed cyclic flow reductions. In addition, OPC’s inhibit certain proteolytic enzymes, including collagenase, elastase, beta-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase which can damage the extracellular matrix surrounding capillary walls. This makes OPC’s a useful choice for improving vascular fragility and peripheral vascular insufficiency which can lead to thrombophlebitis.

Dr. Myatt’s Super-Shake


The Healthiest “Milkshake” You’ll Ever Drink!

Did you ever wish that something like a rich, creamy milkshake could also be healthy? I’ve got great news for you!

I have found myself giving individual patients the recipe for what I call my “Super Shake” so frequently in the past few weeks that I realized it’s high time for me to encourage everybody to drink this incredibly tasty, amazingly healthy “milkshake.” (It can also be made as a pudding, too). Before I discuss the recipe and what the individual ingredients will do for you, let’s take a look at the overall health benefits of The Myatt Super Shake.

What My “Super Shake” Will Do for You

Taken at least once, and better yet twice per day, this tasty treat provides a basket full of health benefits. I’ll describe the “whys” and “wherefores” of individual ingredients below so you can see how my Super Shake works it’s “magic,” but first let’s look at all the good this amazing recipe accomplishes. I believe you’ll see why I recommend it so often in my practice.

  • If you are overweight, the Super Shake will help you lose.
  • If you are underweight, the Super Shake will help you gain.
  • The Super Shake helps preserve and build better muscle tone.
  • The Super Shake strengthens the immune system.
  • The Super Shake helps normalize blood sugar levels, so it improves both diabetes and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
  • Ingredients in The Super Shake help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Whey and gelatin in the Super Shake strengthen ligaments, tendons, and bones.
  • Antioxidants and protein contained in my Super Shake help renew, rejuvenate and heal skin.
  • Maxi Fiber and L-glutamine help normalize bowel function and correct constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • The Super Shake is high in flavonoids, especially the kind useful for preventing or halting eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and retinopathy.
  • These same flavonoids plus other ingredient work together to prevent and reverse varicose veins, atherosclerosis, neuropathy and neuralgia (nerve disease and nerve pain).
  • Whey and L-glutamine help protect normal cells during radiation and chemotherapy.
  • My Super Shake is so easily assimilated and so healthy that it is THE beverage of choice when recovering from illness or surgery. Whey is known to speed wound healing.

Best of all, this is a truly delicious drink or pudding, not a “choke-it-down” health concoction. Sound too good to be true? Here’s the recipe and an individual breakdown of the numerous benefits of each of the ingredients.

Dr. Myatt’s Super Shake Recipes:

1.) Our full original recipe:
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping teaspoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. flax oil
1 packet gelatin (which equals 1 TBS.)
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 teaspoon L-glutamine
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

2.) Our new, simplified recipe:
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping teaspoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 scoop Red Alert
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

This recipe gives you the equivalent of 10 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables!

3.) Our deluxe, full-meal-deal recipe: (Nurse Mark’s Every-Day Favorite!)
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping tablespoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 scoop Red Alert
2 tablespoons Organic India psyllium
2 tablespoons fresh ground flax seed
1 egg
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

This recipe provides a great helping of dietary fiber – perfect for weight loss dieters, diabetics, cholesterol management, and bowel regularity. With the added egg it is a full meal.

For all of these recipes, the secret to a creamy, smooth shake is to blend well.

To make your shake extra-creamy and rich try adding a quarter-cup of regular (not low-fat) yoghurt or kefir.

What’s in the “Super Shake” that Makes it So Great?

Let’s take a look at the individual ingredients and see why this Shake is a “Miracle Food.”

Whey Protein: When processed correctly (to retain whole protein concentrate and at low temperatures to preserve immune factors), whey supplies a biologically superior protein with natural immune factors, including lactoferrin and immunoglobulins. Milk-derived whey protein has been shown to:

  • boost immune function
  • improve liver function
  • bind and safely remove heavy metals
  • speeds wound healing
  • aid muscle growth. (Body builders have long known about the muscle-building benefits of whey).
  • promote healing of bones, skin, and muscle.
  • heal cartilage and strengthen joints, tendons and cardiac muscle.

In cancer medicine it has been found that whey offers “considerable protection to the host” over that of other types of protein including soy, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. At low concentrations, whey inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells. Whey also protects cellular glutathione (a body-produced antioxidant) in normal cells during radiation. This effect is not seen with other proteins.

Because the milk-sugar portion is removed, whey is suitable for people who are lactose intolerant. The Super Shake made with whey provides a high quality protein, high nutrient, low carb meal replacement or between-meal snack.

NOTE: NOT ALL WHEY PROTEINS ARE CREATED EQUAL! Many whey powders contain the “isolate” form only, but many of the immune benefits of whey are found in the Whole Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC). Our Wellness Club brand of whey is specially processed to preserve all of these important nutritive factors.

You’ve heard me wax eloquent numerous times about the importance and benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids (Flax and fish oil are the primary sources). The American diet is grossly deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids (Which are Essential Fatty Acids, or EFA’s). Deficiencies of Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to subtle body-wide inflammation which in turn is associated with over 60 known diseases including heart disease, stroke, arthritis, allergies, asthma, cancer, overweight and obesity, autoimmune disease, neurological disease, psoriasis, eczema, high blood pressure to name only a few. Daily supplementation of Omega-3 fatty acids, derived primarily from flax and/or fish oil (salmon is a rich source) are one of the healthiest things a person can do to prevent these many EFA-deficiency associated diseases. The essential fats are SO important that the Government officially recommended in 2003 that Americans get more Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.

L-Glutamine: This amino acid is a major component of muscle tissue. It is also a major source of energy for cells of the GI tract. It stimulates the production of Growth Hormone (GH) and decreases sugar and alcohol cravings.
Athletes use Glutamine to help build muscle (anabolic), but it can also be used by non-athletes, even the frail elderly, to help prevent muscle tissue breakdown. It is useful for rejuvenating the lining of the GI tract and can therefore assist in healing after GI surgery and in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Glutamine stimulates the immune system and should be used when recovering from any surgery or illness. In weight loss, it is useful for reducing alcohol and sugar cravings. Because it crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a ready supply of energy for the brain, it is also used in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD).

Maxi Fiber: A powdered, great-tasting, easy-to-mix high fiber blend. This formula makes it easy to add extra fiber to your diet. Maxi Fiber is sugar-free, low calorie and low carb, and contains all seven classes of fiber. This mix of fiber is known to:

  • Bind intestinal toxins and soften and bulk stools
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Helps correct constipation and diarrhea
  • Helps remove heavy metals and toxins
  • Clears out excess bowel mucous and alleviates gas
  • Deodorizes and cleans the digestive tract
  • Helps heal and soothe the G.I. tract

Gelatin: OK, total vegetarians and vegans, just leave this ingredient out of the Shake. For the rest of us, gelatin has an amino acid profile with the following benefits:

  • promotes joint health. Two of the amino acids found in gelatin are substances the body uses to make collagen, a primary component of connective tissues such as cartilage.
  • promotes nail health.

Blueberry: (and its cousin bilberry which can be taken in capsule form if preferred) is an herb which acts as a potent antioxidant and serves to strengthen and stabilize veins. It is used for: Atherosclerosis, cataracts, diabetes mellitus, neuropathy and neuralgia, retinopathy, varicose veins, and macular degeneration. Bilberry has a special affinity for the eyes and veins. It also improves skin tone because of its antioxidant and capillary-strengthening properties.

BOTTOM LINE on My Super-Shakes:

Why not have at least one, and better yet two, of these wonderful health-enhancing drinks per day for one month and give yourself the opportunity to experience a great number of health benefits in one tasty glass? And DO drop me a line and tell me of your experiences. I get “fan mail” for the Shakes on a daily basis and I’d like to hear yours!

To make one shake each for two people or two shakes for one person (per day) for one month, you will need to order:

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).

Longevity & Rejuvenation

Live A Long and Healthy Life

Many of the practices that make for a healthier life also increase life expectancy. In addition, some herbs and nutritional substances may increase life expectancy, although this is less well-proven than the health practices described below.

Factors which have definitely been shown to increase life expectancy, demonstrated in decades-long research in animals and also in human population studies: Maintaining a lean body mass index (being at the lean end of your desirable weight range) while maintaining a high level of nutrition. Staying slim through nutrient deprivation doesn’t extend life. Staying slim by eating a high quality diet does. (See Weight Loss if you are overweight).

No other physical means (not even exercise) is proven to increase life expectancy. (Exercise is known to increase health span, meaning the number of years that a person stays healthy. We have no proof that it increases total lifespan, however).

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Diet: eat a diet high in nutrient-rich foods.
  • Achieve and maintain a normal weight. Overweight is the second biggest cause of premature aging and death. (Smoking is first).
  • Exercise regularly. 30 minutes, 3 times per week minimum.
  • Don’t smoke! Smoking is the single biggest cause of premature aging and death.
  • Follow the Ten Golden Rules of Good Health.

Primary Support

Additional Support

 

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS


Natural Support For A Potentially Debilitating Condition

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition of the joints where the body’s own immune system “attacks” joint tissue. It is classified as an autoimmune disease for this reason. A number of factors have been implicated in such an autoimmune reaction.

Autoimmune diseases in general relate to some combination of genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, food allergy, increased intestinal permeability, altered bowel flora, intestinal parasites, stress and environmental factors. Any combination of these may be involved.

It is advisable to seek the help of a qualified alternative medicine practitioner who can help you explore these causes. Conventional medical treatment relies on immune-suppressing drugs as a mainstay of therapy, but recent studies have demonstrated immune deficiency defects in patients with RA in spite of the excess inflammatory condition exhibited toward joints. Conventional treatment does not address this immune deficiency and in most instances actually makes it worse.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Follow the Ten Rules for Good Health. Avoid red meat and fowl; emphasize fish.
  • Evaluate for food allergies.
  • Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily.
  • Practice Relaxation techniques. Stress aggravates autoimmune conditions in general. Please watch The Body/Mind Connection video several times for information and insights into the stress/disease connection.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidants (A,C,E,beta carotene, selenium), manganese, pantothenic acid and zinc are particularly important in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
  • 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).
  • Similase: 2 caps, 3 times per day with meals.
  • MSM (750-1,000mg): 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals.
  • Bromelain: 2 caps, 3-4 times per day between meals for 4 weeks, then decrease to 1 cap, 3-4 times per day between meals thereafter.

Additional Support

  • DHEA: 200-400mg daily in divided doses. A dose this high should be taken only after having a hormone profile performed. (Best to use at this dose with a physician’s guidance).
    AND (Take any or ALL of the following):

  • Grape Seed Extract (50-100mg): 1 capsule, 3 times per day with meals. [Target dose: 150-300mg per day].

  • Turmeric (curcumin): 1 cap, 4 times per day between meals. [Target dose: 1,200mg per day].

  • Ginger: 1-2 caps, 3-4 times per day. [Target dose: 500-1,000mg per day. Faster improvement has been reported in people who took double this dose, without negative side-effects].

Tests

  • Male or female hormone profile: this should always be performed at the initiation of treatment.
  • Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) should be performed. Altered bowel flora and /or incomplete digestion are common in RA and should be evaluated and corrected.
  • Increased Intestinal Permeability (IP): Altered gut permeability, from drugs, altered bowel flora, deficient digestive enzymes, stress and environmental factors, plays heavily in RA. This should be evaluated and corrected if an abnormality is found.
  • Gastric Acid Self-Test: should be conducted. Low digestive function, including low gastric acid production, is a common finding and felt to be contributory to RA.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

RA can be greatly improved through natural means, but it is important to consult a qualified health practitioner who can help you. I am available for telephone consultations.