Blood Chemistry Panel

A Description of What Blood Tests Relate To

Blood Chemistry Panel

Test

Related to:

Glucose
Triglyceride Diabetes BUN
Creatinine
BUN/Creatinine Ratio
Potassium
Sodium
Chloride
Phosphorus Kidney Function
Hypertension
Renal Disease Alkaline Phosphatase
Calcium Bone Function GGT
SGOT
SGTP
Total Bilirubin
Total Protein Liver Function Albumin
Globulin
A/G Ratio Nutritional Status Cholesterol
Triglyceride
LDL Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol
VLDL Cholesterol
Total Cholesterol : HDL Ratio
Percent HDL Cholesterol Coronary Risk
Cardiovascular
Disease Risk Serum Ferritin Iron Status hs-CRP Cardiovascular Disease Risk

If you have medical questions or concerns, contact your physician.

CBC – Complete Blood Count

WBC – White Blood Count Infection / Lowered Immune System RBC – Red Blood Count Anemia MCV – Mean Corpuscular Volume
MCH – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
MCHC – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
RDW – Random Distribution Width Red Blood Cell Index Platelet Count Coagulation (clotting) Neutrophils
Lymphocytes
Monocytes
Eosinophils
Basophils Infection

The CBC is a complex test and requires physician diagnosis for any specific conditions. If you have abnormal values, we recommend following up with your physician

Blood Work Printable

Blood Chemistry Panel

Test

Related to:

Glucose
Triglyceride Diabetes BUN
Creatinine
BUN/Creatinine Ratio
Potassium
Sodium
Chloride
Phosphorus Kidney Function
Hypertension
Renal Disease Alkaline Phosphatase
Calcium Bone Function GGT
SGOT
SGTP
Total Bilirubin
Total Protein Liver Function Albumin
Globulin
A/G Ratio Nutritional Status Cholesterol
Triglyceride
LDL Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol
VLDL Cholesterol
Total Cholesterol : HDL Ratio
Percent HDL Cholesterol Coronary Risk
Cardiovascular
Disease Risk Serum Ferritin Iron Status hs-CRP Cardiovascular Disease Risk

If you have medical questions or concerns, contact your physician.

CBC – Complete Blood Count

WBC – White Blood Count Infection / Lowered Immune System RBC – Red Blood Count Anemia MCV – Mean Corpuscular Volume
MCH – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
MCHC – Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
RDW – Random Distribution Width Red Blood Cell Index Platelet Count Coagulation (clotting) Neutrophils
Lymphocytes
Monocytes
Eosinophils
Basophils Infection

The CBC is a complex test and requires physician diagnosis for any specific conditions. If you have abnormal values, we recommend following up with your physician

Is Science On The Verge of an ME/CFS Breakthrough?

Figure 1: The NO‾/ONOO‾Cycle

Key to Figure 1: The NO‾/ONOO‾ Cycle “Players”

  • Nitric oxide (NO‾) is a naturally occurring “messenger molecule” in the body and also a pro-oxidant and free radical. Depending on the amount and where it is released, NO can be either beneficial or toxic. (141-145,223)
    Nitric oxide is known to play a role in blood pressure regulation, blood clotting, immunity, digestion, the special senses (sight and smell), and possibly learning and memory. Abnormal levels of NO‾ may play a role in diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, impotence, septic shock, and long-term depression. (52,145) In ME/CSF/FM and related multi-system diseases, research suggests that excess NO‾ may be a primary contributor to long-term energy depletion and immune dysfunction. (101,141-142,223)
  • Superoxide (O2‾) is a potent free radical. Like nitric oxide (NO‾), O2‾ has independent deleterious effects when expressed in excess. Superoxide reacts with NO‾ to form ONOO‾.
  • OONO‾ (peroxynitrite) is a potent oxidant that damages cells. It is formed when NO‾ and O2‾ react with each other. Peroxynitrite in turn acts through multiple mechanisms to regenerate its precursors, NO‾ and O2‾. In this way, a “vicious cycle” of damage creating more damage begins.

Consequences of Superoxide (O2‾) Excess:

1.) Inflammation (130,137)
2.) Vaso-spasm (131)
3.) Endothelial dysfunction (132,134,135,138,139)
4.) Associated with retinal cell death, pulmonary hypertension, general hypertension, atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative disease, type II diabetes (73,132,134,136-140)
5.) Decreased cellular respiration (133)
6.) Cell death (133) + Consequences of Nitric Oxide (NO‾) Excess:

1.) Cellular energy depletion (97, 120)
2.) DNA damage (98-100, 118,123)
3.) Neurotoxicity, neuronal cell death and brain injury (52, 57, 58, 84,100-104,111-113, 115,123)
4.) Hypersomnolence and sleep apnea (102, 105)
5.) Lung injury (61,62,128,129)
6.) Increased pain perception and lowered pain threshold (53, 59)
7.) Lowered blood pressure (224-225)
8.) Inhibition of the methylation cycle (106, 107)
9.) Formation of carcinogenic substances (99)
10.) Increased inflammation (61, 62, 110,120,121,125,126, 130)
11.) Cytotoxicity (68,114,115,120, 123)
12.) Modification of cellular proteins (100,123)
13.) No is associated with Alzheimer’s, Arthritis, Parkinson’s, stroke, hemorrhagic shock, cancer, viral infections (57, 58, 97,98,113,115, 120,121,122,123)
14.) Damaged mitochondria (108,109,111,112, 114,115,127)
15.) Suppressed immune system (122)
16.) Assisted viral replication and pathogenesis (122, 124, 126,127)
Consequences of Excess Peroxynitrite (ONOO‾)

1.) Neurotoxic (72,74,76,85, 88,89)
2.) Cytotoxic (68,82-84,87,119)
3.) Increases lipid peroxidation (54,87,90,119,125)
4.) Retinal cell death (73,75,86)
5.) DNA damage (77,87,118,119,125)
6.) Decreased mitochondrial respiration (cellular oxygen)
(69,77,78,90,92,119)
7.) Increase viral replication (80)
8.) ONOO- is associated with Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, lung injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, HIV, multiple sclerosis, kidney damage, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Sjögren’s syndrome, septic shock and other diseases. (57,72,74,78,80,81,84,87,88,89,91)

Fig. 2: Independent Consequences of Increased Superoxide (O2‾ ), nitric oxide (NO‾ ) and peroxynitrite (ONOO‾ ).

Dr. Bell, one of the first physicians to recognize ME/CFS as a discrete medical condition, proposes in his book Cellular Hypoxia and Neuro-Immune Fatigue that cellular hypoxia may be the underlying factor in ME/CFS and related multi-system diseases. (146). This is consistent with the NO‾/ONOO‾ theory, because injuries of many types result in decreased oxygen (hypoxia) to the cell, thus initiating this destructive runaway cycle.

Hydroxocobalamin Breaks the NO‾ / ONOO‾ Cycle

Hydroxocobalamin (cobinamide), a unique form of vitamin B-12, is a potent nitric oxide (NO‾) scavenger. It is the only form of vitamin B12 that effectively neutralizes the NO‾ molecule. Hydroxocobalamin is the preferred form of vitamin B-12 required to break the NO‾/ONOO‾ vicious cycle of cellular damage. (147-149)

The Methylation Cycle and ME/CFS

The Methylation Cycle is a biochemical pathway required for the manufacture of DNA, RNA, phospholipids (myelin sheath of nerves), neurotransmitters, adrenal hormones and more than 100 enzymes. A fully functional methylation cycle is also required for numerous detoxification reactions. (150-157)

A defect in the methylation pathway is a second proposed mechanism in the development of ME/CFS. The research of Dr Rich van Konynenburg has been instrumental in demonstrating the intricate interrelationship between the methylation cycle and ME/CFS. (158)

Methylation defects cause reduced detoxification ability, decreased production of serotonin, dopamine, melatonin and other neurotransmitters, decreased production of adrenal hormones, increased levels of toxic homocysteine, and decreased cellular energy production. (159-163)

This reduced production of vital neurotransmitters may explain the feelings of depression and despondency that frequently strike ME/CFS victims and would explain the positive effects often achieved with the use of SSRI and other mood-altering pharmaceuticals. Unfortunately, many clinicians interpret the improvement seen with antidepressant medications as “proof” that ME/CFS is a psychiatric illness when in fact an understanding of the methylation pathway defect offers solid evidence of a biochemical basis for depression and low energy in ME/CFS.

Figure 3: The Methylation Cycle

Note the overlap between the NO‾/ONOO‾ Cycle and the Methylation Cycle where excess NO‾ blocks methionine synthase, a critical enzyme in the methylation cycle. (106, 164-167)

The methylcobalamin form of vitamin B-12 is a required nutrient in the Methylation Cycle. If any one step in the methylation cycle fails, the entire cycle fails.

Vitamin B12: Which Form is Best?

What we know as Vitamin B-12 is actually a collection of four related but different cobalt-containing molecules. Each of these forms plays a distinct role in the body as follows:

Hydroxycobalamin is a unique form of B12 that quenches excess nitric oxide (NO‾), the precursor to peroxinitrite (ONOO‾).(147-149,172-176) Hydroxocobalamine (and methylcobalamine) are also more effective at treating neurological disorders than cyanocobalamine. (168)

Hydroxocobalamin participates in detoxification, especially cyanide detoxification. Cyanide levels are typically elevated in smokers, people who eat cyanide-containing food (like cassava) and those with certain metabolic defects. Excess cyanide in the tissues blocks conversion of cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin. In such instances, hydroxocobalamin is the vitamin B-12 of choice. (169-171) Hydroxycobalamin is FDA- approved as a treatment for cyanide poisoning. (214

Methylcobalamin is considered by many researchers to be the most active form of vitamin B12. (177-179) It is the requisite form of vitamin B-12 in the Methylation Cycle. (179-186). Methylcobalamin protects cortical neurons against NMDA receptor-mediated glutamate cytotoxicity.(187-188) and promotes nerve cell regeneration. (189) Methylcobalamine is the only form of vitamin B-12 that participates in regulating circadian rhythms (sleep/wake cycles). It has been shown to improve sleep quality and refreshment from sleep, as well as increased feeling of well-being, concentration and alertness. (190).

Adenosylcobalamin (dibencozide), another highly active form of vitamin B12, is essential for energy metabolism (191) and is required for normal myelin sheath formation and nucleoprotein synthesis. Deficiencies are associated with nerve and spinal cord degeneration. (192-193)

Cyanocobalamin, the most common form of B12 found in nutritional supplements, is a synthetic form of B12 not found in nature. It has the lowest biological activity and must be converted in the liver to more biologically active forms. This conversion is inefficient and some people who may not benefit from cyanocobalamine due to lack of assimilation or conversion. (194-195) However, the cyano form of B12 is needed to balance hydroxycobalamin in performing its NO-quenching function and should therefore be included in hydroxocobalamine supplements. (176)

Who is Vitamin B12 Deficient and Why?

Research shows that a much larger segment of the general population is vitamin B12 deficient than previously thought. Recent studies indicate that up to 78% of seniors are deficient. (196-197)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), seen in as many as 77% of CFS patients and 78% of FM patients (198-199) is a major cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. (200) This leads one to ponder the “which came first, the chicken or egg” nature of this: are ME/CFS patients B12 deficient because of IBS, or is IBS a result of cellular or neurological insult caused by B12 deficiency?

Other high-risk groups for B12 deficiency include those who use acid-blocking or neutralizing drugs (such as Prilosec, Prevacid, Nexium and others) (201-204), drugs which impair intestinal absorption (such as Metformin, Questron and Chloromycetin) (205), and people who have had gastric surgery. (206-207) Bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine, which occurs frequently in people with ME/CFS and low stomach acid, is a predisposing factor for B12 deficiency because the bacteria themselves use vitamin B12. (208-209)

The most recent and disturbing studies suggest that vitamin B12 deficiency is more prevalent in young adults than previously thought. (210-211). One study found that vitamin B12 deficiency was similar in three age groups (26-49 years, 50-64 years, and 65 years and older), but that early symptoms were simply less apparent in the young. This study also found that those who did not take a vitamin B12-containing supplement were twice as likely to be deficient as supplement users, regardless of age. (210)

Secondly, unlike other water-soluble vitamins, B12 is stored in the liver, kidneys and other tissues. Deficiencies of B12 often appear so slowly and subtly as to go unnoticed, and blood tests for vitamin B12 levels miss early deficiency states at least 50% of the time. (212-213)

Why Vitamin B12 MUST Be Obtained From Supplements

Medical science once believed that few people were vitamin B12 deficient. This false assumption may stem from the fact that vitamin B12 is produced in the body by a normal, healthy population of bowel bacteria.

Foods are not a significant source of vitamin B12. Meat, milk, eggs, fish, and shellfish contain the highest amount of B12 but only 50% of this is absorbable even in a healthy gut. (215) Vegetarian sources of vitamin B12, such as algae, are not bio-available and do not make significant contribution to dietary vitamin B12 levels. (216)

Further, absorption is hampered by low stomach acid, IBS, and bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine — conditions which are common in ME/CFS sufferers. The US Institute of Medicine recommends that adults over 50 obtain their vitamin B12 from supplements. (14)

Oral vs. Injectable: Which is Best?

Although vitamin B12 has previously been given by injection, it is now accepted in conventional medicine that oral vitamin B12 is equally as effective as injection in treating pernicious anemia and other B12 deficient states. (214, 217-220).

According to The National Institutes of Health (NIH), oral vitamin B12 supplementation is extremely safe (221-222). It is also as effective as injections, (14,219-220) and inexpensive and more convenient compared to injection. (220)

All Roads Lead To B12: Conclusions and Recommendations

The suffering from ME/CFS and other multi-system diseases is widespread and devastating. This affliction is beginning to receive more attention, perhaps because of the activism of those affected and the dedication of ME/CFS researchers and clinicians. Current research is providing us with new insights into the underlying mechanisms of this complicated illness.

The Nitric Oxide / Peroxynitrite model (NO‾/ONOO‾) and The Methylation Cycle have emerged as two likely contributory mechanisms to ME/CFS and other multi-system diseases including Fibromyalgia (FM), Lyme Disease, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS), PTSD and Gulf War Syndrome. Deficiencies of either of two forms of vitamin B12 — hydroxocobalamin and/or methylcobalamin — play a significant role in these biochemical processes.

Since Vitamin B12 (especially the hydroxocobalamin and methycobalamin forms) offer such potential benefits for ME/CFS and other multi-system disease sufferers — without known risks — it seems reasonable to suggest that anyone suffering with ME/CFS or other multi-system illness should consider taking a supplement containing these two important forms of vitamin B12.

Furthermore, because of the balancing effect that cyanocobalamin has on hydroxycobalamin (176) and the protective and regenerative effect that adenosylcobalamin exerts on the myelin sheath of nerves (192-193), these forms should also be considered as an important part of any complete vitamin B12 supplement.

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Astragalus

(Astragalus membranaceus) Milk Vetch, Huang Qi (Chinese)

Immune and Stamina Herb

Actions: Immune stimulant; adaptogenic; vasodilator; anti-viral

Uses: Tonic and endurance remedy; immune stimulant (not an acute remedy, like Echinacea, but for long-term use to improve immune function); night sweats.

Dr. Myatt’s Immune Support is a daily Immune-Enhancing Formula containing Astragulus and other immune-boosting herbs, medicinal mushrooms, and support nutrients to keep your immune system healthy on a daily basis.

Dr. Myatt’s Energy Rehab contains Astragalus and is designed to support the body’s energy and immune systems when they are challenged by any type of infection.

Dr. Myatt’s Immune Boost is another preparation containing Astragalus that is designed to stimulate every aspect of immune function. This potent liquid tincture goes to work “lightning fast” to enhance immunity.

Atherosclerosis:


An American Epidemic

Atherosclerosis is a narrowing of the arteries caused by an accumulation of fatty deposits on the artery walls. These fatty deposits result in decreased blood flow to the tissues. Additionally, pieces of fat can break loose and block a blood vessel. All arteries may be affected, but the coronary and cerebral vessels are the areas of greatest concern because insufficient blood flow to the heart and brain can quickly become life-threatening.

Atherosclerosis and its complications (coronary heart disease, stroke) are the major cause of death in the United States. Heart attacks alone account for over 20% of all U.S. deaths each year. When death from strokes and atherosclerotic heart disease are added in, the total of atherosclerotic-caused deaths increases to nearly 50% of the U.S. total. This disease costs over 60 billion dollars per year to treat. The suffering caused is incalculable.

Signs and symptoms of atherosclerosis depend on the degree of obstruction and the arteries involved. They may include angina (chest pain), leg cramps (especially when walking), weakness, dizziness, or gradual mental deterioration. Other “minor” symptoms often caused by the decreased blood flow of atherosclerosis include tinnitus (ringing in the ears), impotence, hearing loss, and diminished vision. Often, there are no symptoms prior to an “event” (heart attack, stroke).

The causes of atherosclerosis are largely known: sedentary lifestyle, smoking, dietary imbalances (esp. high trans fat consumption, lack of dietary fiber, lack of dietary antioxidants) and stress. Since these are all controllable risk factors, the individual can do MUCH to prevent and reverse this degenerative process.

It has been known since 1973 that a diagonal earlobe crease is a sign of atherosclerosis. More recent studies have suggested that it is, in fact, one of the most accurate indications of atherosclerosis – more reliable than any other known risk factor, including age, sedentary lifestyle, elevated cholesterol levels, and smoking.

The earlobe has many small blood vessels, known as capillaries. A decrease in blood flow caused by atherosclerosis causes a “collapse” of the vascular bed – and an earlobe crease results. (NOTE: This physical sign does not correlate with atherosclerosis in Orientals, Native Americans, and children with Beckwith’s syndrome.)

While the presence of an earlobe crease does not by itself prove heart disease, it strongly suggests it. If you have an earlobe crease or known atherosclerosis, begin to reverse the condition by following the recommendations here.

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Eat a nutritious diet high in nutrients and fiber.
  • Regular aerobic exercise (with your doctor’s clearance). Exercise improves circulation and heart muscle pumping ability. It also helps the body use excess fats and cholesterol for energy.
  • Drink 8 glasses of pure water daily.
  • Maintain a normal body weight.
  • Do not smoke. Substances in tobacco smoke can cause spasm of the blood vessels

Limit caffeine intake to 2 cups (including decaf and caffeinated sodas) per day. Avoid these entirely if arrhythmia is present.

PRIMARY SUPPORT

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. This daily “multiple” contains high potency antioxidants. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidant vitamins including C,E, and beta carotene, plus B complex vitamins, magnesium, selenium and bioflavonoids are particularly important for the heart. Take additional B complex vitamins if your multiple does not contain optimal doses. B vitamins, (especially B6, B12, and folic acid) lower homocysteine levels, an independent risk for heart disease that many researchers feel is more important than cholesterol levels.
  • 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).
  • CoQ10: 50-300mg per day. This powerful antioxidant, produced by the body, diminishes with age. It is especially valuable for all types of heart disease. CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING DRUGS deplete CoQ10. (Amounts will depend on the severity of the disease. Lower doses may be used for health maintenance; higher doses in cases of arrhythmia, angina, and atherosclerosis).
  • Garlic: (Garlitrin 4000®): 1 tablet, once per day with a meal. Other brands, take 1 tab, 3 times per day. Target dose: 10,000mg allicin per day.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

  • L-carnitine: 1 cap (250mg), 3 times per day with meals.
  • Bromelain: 1 cap (2400mcu), 3 times per day BETWEEN meals.

DR. MYATT’S COMMENT

Treat all other “heart risk” factors that may be present: High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, arrhythmia. Please refer to these sections for more information. See HEART DISEASE for more information.

 

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER(ADD / ADHD)


Natural Support For This Growing Problem

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), ADD with Hyperactivity (ADHD), and depression represent a continuum of learning and behavioral disabilities that afflict an estimated 5-10% of school-aged children. These conditions also affect adults. In the United States, conventional medical treatment of choice is pharmaceutical intervention.

The definition of ADD is developmentally inappropriate inattention and impulsivity, with or without hyperactivity. The DSM-IV list 14 signs, 8 of which must be present to make the diagnosis. They are:

1.) Fidgets with hands or feet and squirms in seat
2.) has difficulty remaining seated when required to do so,
3.) is easily distracted by external stimuli,
4.) has difficulty awaiting turn in games or group situations,
5.) often blurts out answers before questions are completed,
6.) has difficulty following through on instructions from others (not due to opposition but to failure of comprehension),
7.) has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities,
8.) shifts from one uncompleted task to another,
9.) has difficulty playing quietly,
10.) talks excessively,
11.) often interrupts or intrudes on others,
12.) often does not seem to listen to what is being said,
13.) often loses things necessary for tasks at home or at school,
14.) often engages in physically dangerous activities without considering consequences.

Scope of the Problem: For ADD, ADHD: An estimated 5-10% of school-aged children are affected. Boys are 10 times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. An estimated 3-5% of ADD/ADHD-diagnosed children will be put on Ritalin (methylphenidate). In 1995, over 6 million prescriptions were written for Americans under age 18.

Proposed Causes: Nutritional deficiencies, inborn errors of metabolism, food allergies, heavy metal toxicity, malabsorption, prenatal influences, genetic influence, environmental and cultural factors, yeast infection or overgrowth, food additives, trauma, and developmental factors.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment: A large body of scientific evidence suggests that ADD/ADHD is multi-factorial, meaning that there is usually more than one contributing cause. This presents a special challenge to the diagnosing physician if (s)he is interested in correcting the problem and not just treating symptoms. This may also account for the large number of children placed on drug therapy, which relieves the physician and parents of the responsibility of exploring the numerous causes and contributions to ADD/ADHD. However, due to the far-reaching effects that such attention disorders and behavior problems create, many people have found that it is worthwhile to discover and correct the causes of ADD/ADHD instead of simply “dumbing down” the symptoms with drugs.

Diet And Lifestyle

  • Diet: Elimination/challenge to discover food allergies, then avoidance of offending foods; avoidance of artificial additives and food colorants (Feingold diet); avoidance of simple carbohydrates (sugars and refined flour products).
  • NO stimulants: colas, chocolate, caffeine- containing foods and beverages.
  • Exercise: daily. Exercise helps normalize brain chemistry.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi (adults): 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals.
  • Children’s Multi (children): dose according to age and body weight as listed on product label. A deficiency of any vitamin, mineral or trace mineral can lead to impaired mental performance.
  • L-glutamine: 2,500-3,000mg per day. (This will vary depending on the age and weight of the patient).
  • Cal-Mag Amino: (calcium/ magnesium) [Target dose: < 10 years, 1,000mg calcium, > 10 years, 1,200- 1,500 mg calcium with corresponding dose of magnesium].
  • Grape Seed Extract: 50 mg, 3 times per day with meals.

Additional Support

Dr. Myatt’s Note:

I recommend for physicians, parents, and teachers: “Hyper Kids” by Lendon Smith, Shaw/Spelling Assoc., 1990. This workbook provides questionnaires to help physicians and parents sort out causes of ADD/ADHD— from nutrient deficiencies and allergies to malabsorption and yeast overgrowth. A very useful resource in differential diagnosis.

Autoimmune Disorders

A Discussion of Causes and Natural Support

Autoimmune disorders are conditions caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the very same body it was designed to protect. In autoimmune disorders, the immune system, an intricate and amazing defense mechanism of the body, somehow becomes misguided. The effect is the physical equivalent of “friendly fire,” but the results are far from benign or friendly.

Diseases Caused by Autoimmunity

Disease Affected Organ or Tissue Addison’s disease adrenal gland Asthma (many) air passages Atopic dermatitis skin Autoimmune hemolytic anemia red blood cell membranes Chronic active hepatitis liver Crohn’s disease GI tract Glomerulonephritis kidney Goodpasture’s syndrome kidney and lung Grave’s disease thyroid Hashimoto’s thyroiditis thyroid Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura platelets Insulin-dependent diabetes (Type I) pancreatic beta cells Multiple sclerosis brain and spinal cord Myasthenia gravis nerve and muscle synapses Pemphigus/pemphigoid skin Pernicious anemia gastric parietal cells Psoriasis skin Rheumatoid arthritis connective tissue Scleroderma heart, lungs, GI tract, kidney Sjogren’s syndrome liver, kidney, brain, thyroid, salivary glands Spontaneous infertility sperm Systemic lupus erythromatosis (SLE) DNA, platelets Vitiligo melanocytes

Autoimmune disorders can effect other organs and tissues, causing inflammation and degenerative changes in virtually any tissue in the body.

Although the symptoms of autoimmune disease vary, the underlying problem is the same. Normally, the body is able to distinguish between “self” and “non-self.” In autoimmune disorders, the immune system makes antibodies against “self” tissue and actually begins attacking “self.” Often, the attack against “self” progresses to such a degree as to cause tissue injury.

Causes of Autoimmune Disease

A number of different factors can cause autoimmune disease. Foreign antigens (substances not native to the body that trigger immune reactions) can trigger an autoimmune response. Such substances include drugs, heavy metals (found in cigarette smoke, drinking water, polluted air, food, etc), bacteria, viruses and vaccines. Infections and allergies (especially food allergies) are thought to play a major role. Nutritional deficiencies can  weaken the immune system and render it less able to defend the host against foreign “invasion.” Food allergies and sensitivities, an overgrowth of yeast or other non-native “bugs” in the intestinal tract, emotional distress (dis-stress)— in fact, anything that weakens and therefore alters immune system function can be a factor in causing autoimmune disease. Sometimes  genetic weakness appears to play a role.

Conventional Medicine Treatment of Autoimmune Disease

Conventional medicine treats autoimmune disorders by managing the symptoms and/or suppressing immune function. Suppression of the immune system with corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs can offer relief during and acute crisis, but they do not help correct the underlying cause of the problem. Many of these medications are quite toxic and cause further deterioration of the immune system.

Anti-inflammatory agents are also used to treat symptoms but they, too, do not contribute to cure. In fact, conventional medicine makes no attempt to cure autoimmune diseases, only to keep them in remission. The long-term prognosis is often a gradual worsening of the condition, usually marked by exacerbations (“flare-ups”) and remissions.

Natural Medicine Treatment of Autoimmune Disease

Since autoimmune diseases are caused by auto-antibodies, the question to ask is, “What is causing this person to make auto-antibodies?” Most natural medicine experts believe that autoantibodies are produced in response to an infection or allergen. When the offending infection(s) or allergen(s) is removed, production of these destructive autoantibodies stops.

With such a number of potential causative factors, evaluating the “particulars” of each individual case is important.  For this reason, a personal telephone consultation with Dr. Myatt is highly recommended.

There is still good news for sufferers of autoimmune disorders. Many factors that contribute to this problem can be identified and changed, thereby altering the course of the disease. By discontinuing sources of possible toxicity, improving nutritional status, strengthening the immune system and managing emotional stress in a productive way, there is much that can be done for autoimmune diseases. Even for people who may have a genetic weakness that predisposes to autoimmune disease, suffering is not inevitable. Most inborn weaknesses can be compensated for by healthful lifestyle and dietary practices. Dramatic improvements are possible for those who are willing to use health-promoting lifestyle changes and strategies!

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

Food allergies and/or sensitivities are felt to be a major factor in most autoimmune cases. Although many types of food allergy testing are available, most are not reliable. There is only one laboratory that I use and recommend for food allergy testing. Although the testing is not inexpensive, the results are invaluable for those with any autoimmune condition.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. This daily “multiple” contains high potency antioxidants. If you use another formula, be sure to use only those that are hypoallergenic, since additives in vitamin supplements can cause reactions.
  • 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).An imbalance of Omega 6: Omega 3 fatty acid ratios, common in the American diet, leads to hypersensitivity and excess inflammation. Increasing Omega-3 fatty acid intake decreases the tendency to inflammation and “hyper” immune reactions.
  • Similase: 1-2 caps, 3 times per day with meals. This digestive enzyme formula improves digestion and absorption of foods. It is known that incomplete protein digestion can trigger allergies, especially those that are food-related.
  • COX-2-Support: 3 caps, 1-2 times per day between meals. This is an all-natural, safe, effective herbal formula for normalizing inflammatory response.

Additional Support

  • DHEA: Low levels of DHEA are seen in many of the autoimmune diseases, and higher daily intake of DHEA is associated with improvement of symptoms in many. A typical daily dose of DHEA for autoimmunity would be 50-200mg per day. However, since DHEA is a hormone, doses in excess of 50mg per day should be supervised by a physician. A male hormone profile or female hormone profile which includes evaluation of DHEA should be performed at the beginning of treatment to monitor hormone levels.
  • Grape Seed Extract: 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals. (Target dose: 150-300mg daily). Grape seed extract acts as a natural anti-histamine with a more immediate effect than vitamin C. It is also a potent antioxidant.

The Anti-Fungal / Anti-Yeast Diet

The Initial Phase Diet Food Groups Foods that are ALLOWED in the diet: Foods that are EXCLUDED from the diet: 1. Sugar None (1) All sugars should be excluded 2. Artificial or herbal sweeteners Stevia, Stevia Plus Aspartame, saccharin 3. Fruit Berries, avocados, grapefruit, lemons, limes All others, including fruit juice 4. Meat Fish, poultry, beef, etc.(1) Breaded meats 5. Eggs Yes, all eggs are allowed NO egg substitutes 6. Dairy Products Plain Yogurt, Organic cream cheese, butter, Heavy (whipping) cream, sour cream (2) All others, including margarine, butter substitutes and cheese (except those listed) 7. Vegetables Most fresh, unblemished vegetables and freshly-made
vegetable juice (3) Potatoes, corn, winter squash (acorn, pumpkin), legumes (beans, peas), lentils 8. Beverages Bottled or filtered water,  herb teas, fresh lemonade or lime-ade sweetened with Stevia Coffee and tea (including decaf) Sodas (including diet sodas) 9. Grains No grains are allowed — NONE. Shiratake (konjac) noodles may be used. Pasta, rice, corn, wheat, quinoa, amaranth, millet, buckwheat, oats, barley, rye 10. Yeast products No yeast products are allowed. All are excluded, including bread, mushrooms, pastries,
and alcoholic beverages 11. Vinegars Unpasteurized apple cider vinegar, black olives not aged in vinegar Pickles, commercial salad dressings (4),  green olives, soy sauce. 12. Oils Olive, grape seed, flax seed, coconut. Use organic, cold-pressed oils.Fry with coconut oil. Partially-hydrogenated (“trans”) oils, corn and peanut oil, all other vegetable oils. 13. Nuts Raw nuts, including pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds Peanuts (along with ALL peanut products) and pistachios are excluded.

Notes on the Diet:

(1) Meat and fish are better if not corn-fed. This means avoiding farm-raised fish and meat, even if they are “organic.” Grass-fed beef is ideal.
(2) Dairy products are better if from range-fed cattle and animals not injected with antibiotics, hormones, or steroids nor fed silo-stored grains. Whipping cream is liquid, unsweetened heavy cream.
(3) Organically grown vegetables are preferable.
(4) Excluded because many of them contain fermented products like vinegar.

For information about why Dr. Myatt may recommend this diet, please read this article: Fungus, Yeasts and Molds: Hidden Cause of Many Illnesses

Argyria

A Bluish Discoloration Of Tissues (esp. Skin) Due To Silver

Regarding reports of silver turning skin blue in humans:

It is certainly possible to over-ingest silver-containing solutions abd cause a permanant bluish discoloration of skin and other tissues. To achieve this effect requires massive ingestion of silver far in excess of anything therapeutic or sensible.

The following information comes from Wikipedia:

A prominent case was that of Stan Jones of Montana, a Libertarian candidate for the United States Senate in 2002 and 2006. Jones acquired argyria through consumption of a home-made silver product that he made due to fears that the Year 2000 problem would make antibiotics unavailable. The peculiar colouration of his skin was featured prominently in media coverage of his unsuccessful campaign, though Jones contends that the best-known photo was “doctored”. Jones promised that he was not using his silvery complexion as a gimmick. He continues to promote the use of colloidal silver as a home remedy. He has said that his good health, minus the unusual skin tone, is the result of his use of colloidal silver.

On December 20, 2007 the world press published stories about Paul Karason, a California man whose entire skin gradually turned blue after consuming colloidal silver made by himself with distilled water, salt and silver, and using a silver salve on his face in an attempt to treat problems with his sinus, dermatitis, acid reflux, and other issues. This happened because he drank gallons of colloidal silver per week for years.

In our opinion, neither of the cases cited above represents sensible or prudent use of colloidal silver – in fact there is ample evidence that the home-made soludions used by these two persons are not in fact true colloidal suspensions!

Silver has a long and honorable history of use in human healing. There is ample literature attesting to it’s safety and efficacy. Here is an abstract from just one article:

Silver has a long and intriguing history as an antibiotic in human health care. It has been developed for use in water purification, wound care, bone prostheses, reconstructive orthopaedic surgery, cardiac devices, catheters and surgical appliances. Advancing biotechnology has enabled incorporation of ionizable silver into fabrics for clinical use to reduce the risk of nosocomial infections and for personal hygiene. The antimicrobial action of silver or silver compounds is proportional to the bioactive silver ion (Ag(+)) released and its availability to interact with bacterial or fungal cell membranes. Silver metal and inorganic silver compounds ionize in the presence of water, body fluids or tissue exudates. The silver ion is biologically active and readily interacts with proteins, amino acid residues, free anions and receptors on mammalian and eukaryotic cell membranes. Bacterial (and probably fungal) sensitivity to silver is genetically determined and relates to the levels of intracellular silver uptake and its ability to interact and irreversibly denature key enzyme systems. Silver exhibits low toxicity in the human body, and minimal risk is expected due to clinical exposure by inhalation, ingestion, dermal application or through the urological or haematogenous route. Chronic ingestion or inhalation of silver preparations (especially colloidal silver) can lead to deposition of silver metal/silver sulphide particles in the skin (argyria), eye (argyrosis) and other organs. These are not life-threatening conditions but cosmetically undesirable. Silver is absorbed into the human body and enters the systemic circulation as a protein complex to be eliminated by the liver and kidneys. Silver metabolism is modulated by induction and binding to metallothioneins. This complex mitigates the cellular toxicity of silver and contributes to tissue repair. Silver allergy is a known contra-indication for using silver in medical devices or antibiotic textiles.

Reference

Lansdown AB (2006). “Silver in health care: antimicrobial effects and safety in use”. Current Problems in Dermatology 33: 17–34. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16766878

Acute Immune Protocol

Natural Support For Infections

Use the “acute protocol” for all active infections: colds, flu, other respiratory, skin, dental, internal infections. In many instances, antibiotics are unnecessary. This protocol may also be used alone for acute infections.

  • Echinacea or Echinacea with Goldenseal (tincture)
    Suggested dose: 60 to 80 drops, 3 to 4 times per day. Take in a small amount (1 to 2 ounces) of water on an empty stomach (at least 15 minutes before meals or between meals).
  • Immune Support:
    1-2 capsules, 3 to 4 times per day. Take with Echinacea.
  • Bromelain: 2 caps, 3 to 4 times per day between meals.
  • Vitamin C (buffered): 1,000 mg every two hours throughout the day. Vitamin C is a natural anti-histamine.
  • Fresh Garlic – crush 2-3 cloves of garlic and allow to sit for 10 minutes, Add to a cup of broth, preferably with 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, and drink. Repeat 4 or more times per day. FRESH garlic is highly antimicrobial.
  • Goldenseal: 1-2 caps, 3-4 times per day. Goldenseal is one of the best broad-spectrum anti-microbials of all time.

“Later Recovery”
After the acute infection is over, use this modified protocol to restore energy and immunity.