Category: Health Concerns

SAMe (S-Adenosyl-Methionine)


Anti-Depressant and Liver Protector

SAMeSAMe is a “methyl donor” manufactured in the brain from the amino acid methionine. SAMe is involved in the production of serotonin and dopamine. Levels of SAMe are found to be impaired in depressed patients, and oral doses are effective in improving these neurotransmitter levels. SAMe has also been found beneficial for osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee.

SAMe supplementation is useful for:

  • depression
  • low serotonin and/or dopamine levels
  • liver cell regeneration
  • fatty liver
  • cirrhosis
  • high cholesterol
  • osteoarthritis

Dosage:

Depression — Four hundred milligrams, three to four times daily. Start at a dosage of 200 milligrams twice daily for the first day. Increase to 400 milligrams twice daily on day three, 400 milligrams three times daily on day ten, and finally to the full dosage of 400 milligrams four times daily after 20 days, if required.

Osteoarthritis — Follow the guidelines for depression. After 21 days at a dosage of 1,200 milligrams daily, reduce dosage to a maintenance dosage (minimum dosage required to alleviate symptoms), usually 200 milligrams a day.

Fibromyalgia — Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two times daily.

Liver Disorders — Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two to three times daily.

Migraine Headaches –Two hundred milligrams to four hundred milligrams, two times daily (Requires long term use for maximum effectiveness).

References:

1.) Baldessarini RJ, Neuropharmacology of S-adenosyl-L-methionine. Am J Med 83 (Suppl. 5A), 95-103, 1987.
2.) Reynolds E, Carney M, and Toone B. Methylation and mood. Lancet ii, 196-199, 1983.
3.) Salmaggi P. et al., Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of S-adenosyl-L-methionine in depressed postmenopausal women. Psychother Psychosom 59, 34-40, 1993.
4.) Kagan BL, et al., Oral S-adenosylmethionine in depression: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Am J Psychiatry 147, 591-595, 1990.
5.) Floman, Y., Eyre, D.R., and Glimcher, MJ., Induction of Osteoarthritis in the Rabbit Knee Joint: Biochemical Studies on the Articular Cartilage Clinical Orthopaedics &f Related Research (March-April 1980): (147): 278-86.
6.) Thompson, R. C.,Jr., and Oegema, T.R.,Jr., Metabolic Activity of Articular Cartilage in Osteoarthritis, an In-Vitro Study Journal of Bone &f Joint Surgeryó American Volume (April 1979): 61 (3): 407-16.
7.) Najm WI, Reinsch S, Hoehler F, Tobis JS, Harvey PW. S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe) versus celecoxib for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms: A double-blind cross-over trial. [ISRCTN36233495]. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2004 Feb 26;5(1):6.

Digestive Enzymes

Good Digestion Begins With Enzymes

Digestive Enzymes are made by the pancreas and are necessary for the assimilation of nutrients from food. Without these enzymes, the body cannot absorb nutrients (vitamins and minerals) efficiently

Incompletely digested food is associated with a number of health problems including:

  • gas
  • bloating
  • a sense of “fullness” after eating (not related to simple over-eating)
  • indigestion
  • irritable bowel (constipation and/or diarrhea)
  • abdominal cramps.

Other health problems also arise from incomplete digestion:

  • arthritis
  • chronic nasal mucous
  • allergies
  • joint aches and pains
  • candidiasis
  • high blood pressure
  • decreased vitality.

Digestive enzymes taken with meals assist in digestion and help correct the problems caused by incomplete breakdown of foods. When digestive enzymes are taken between meals, they have an anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting effect.

Similase Digestive Enzymes for Adults

Similase™ This highly concentrated Plant Enzyme digestive formula is for people on a “mixed” diet containing fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber & dairy products.

NOTE: Do not use if gastritis or duodenal ulcer is present. (Use Gastric Complex, described below, instead).

Suggested dose 1-2 Capsules with each meal.

Dr. Myatt’s comment: I believe that virtually everybody can benefit from added digestive enzymes. Enzymes help ensure proper assimilation of nutrients, as well as preventing intestinal toxemia. Plant enzymes are preferred because they function in a broader pH range than animal-derived enzymes.

Similase – Product # 220 (180 Caps) $39.97

Similase GFCF

Similase is a highly concentrated Plant Enzyme digestive formula for people on a “mixed” diet containing fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber & dairy products.

Similase GFCF adds an additional enzyme to protect those on gluten free and casein free diets from exposure to hidden sources of these proteins.

Suggested dose 1-2 Capsules with each meal.

Similase GFCF (120 capsules) prod. # N370 $24.97

Similase Jr. Digestive Enzymes for Children

Digestive enzyme deficiencies in children often appear as food allergies, constipation, diarrhea, “tummy ache,” and gas. Similase Jr. is used by parents who want to enhance the delivery and assimilation of food nutrients and supplements in their child’s diet.

Special order – contact for details

Gastric Complex Digestive Enzymes for Adults

NOW CALLED: Similase Sensitive Stomach – same product, new name

Gastric Complex™ / Similase Sensitive Stomach is a highly concentrated Plant Enzyme digestive formula with added botanical synergists (herbs) to soothe the digestive tract.

Dr. Myatt’s comment: Use this instead of regular Similase™ if you have gastritis or ulcer.

Gastric Complex – Product # N255 (180 Caps) $34.95

For nutrition composition of these products please see below:

Nutrition composition of Similase Digestive Enzymes for Adults

Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules Amount/Serving %DV Pure Plant Enzymes™ Assay Method 613mg *

Amylase USP (pH 6.8) 32,000USP

FCC (pH 4.8) 23,800DU

Protease I, II, III, IV USP (pH 7.5) 30,000USP

FCC (pH 7.0) 48,750PC

FCC (pH 4.7) 82,000HUT

Lipase I, II FIP (pH 7.0) 2,100FIP

FCC III (pH 6.5) 970LU

Lactase I, II FCC III (pH 4.5) 1,600ALU

Phytase Phytic Acid (pH 6.0) 1.7PU

Cellulase I, II FCC (pH 4.5) 350CU

Sucrase (Invertase) FCC (pH 4.6) 300INVU

Maltase (Malt Diastase) FCC (pH 4.6) 32,100DP°

This product does not contain

  • artificial coloring
  • artificial flavoring
  • corn
  • dairy products
  • ingredients of animal origin
  • preservatives
  • salt
  • soy
  • sugar
  • wheat
  • yeast

This product contains natural ingredients; color variations are normal.

Notes

If pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use.

Not recommended for use if peptic ulcer, gastritis or heartburn is present.

Integrative Therapeutics’ evidence-based natural medicines are the only choice of doctors who rely on the fact base of premier science to deliver patient results.

Distributed by an FDA-registered Drug Establishment.

Other Ingredients

vegetable capsule (modified cellulose) and cellulose.

UPC Codes: 871791000599

Nutrition composition of Simlase® Jr 90 caps

Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules Amount/Serving %DV Pure Plant Enzymes™ Assay Method 315mg *

Amylase USP (pH 6.8) 6,700USP %

FCC (pH 4.8) 6,000DU %

Protease
(Provides Dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV), Exopeptidase, Endopeptidase, and Peptide Peptidohydrolase activity) USP (pH 7.5) 14,500USP %

FCC (pH 7.0) 20,200PC %

FCC (pH 4.7) 34,300HUT %

(pH 7.0) 2,000CFAU

Lactase FCC III (pH 4.5) 2,400LacU

Cellulase FCC (pH 4.5) 124CU

Lipase FIP (pH 7.0) 630LU

FCC III (pH 6.5) 300LU

Sucrase (Invertase) FCC (pH 4.6) 300INVU %

Phytase Phytic Acid (pH 6.0) 0.64PU %

Maltase (Malt Diastase) FCC (pH 4.6) 10,800ALU %

This product does not contain

  • artificial coloring
  • artificial flavoring
  • corn
  • dairy products
  • ingredients of animal origin
  • preservatives
  • salt
  • soy
  • sugar
  • wheat
  • yeast

This product contains natural ingredients; color variations are normal.

Notes

Not recommended for use if peptic ulcer, gastritis or heartburn is present.If pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use.

Distributed by an FDA-registered Drug Establishment.

Other Ingredients

vegetable capsule (modified cellulose), cellulose, and ascorbyl palmitate.

UPC Codes: 871791001947

Nutrition composition of Similase Sensitive Stomach / Gastric Complex

Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules Amount/Serving %DV Calories 5

Total Carbohydrate <1g <1%**

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) Bark 240mg *

Pure Plant Enzymes™ Assay Method 220mg *

Amylase USP (pH 6.8) 21,170USP *

FCC (pH 4.8) 15,750DU *

Cellulase FCC (pH 4.5) 38CU *

Lipase FCC III (pH 6.5) 54LU *

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Root Extract 3:1 200mg *

Gamma-Oryzanol (from rice bran) 170mg *

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) Root Extract 3.5:1 80mg *

This product does not contain

  • artificial coloring
  • artificial flavoring
  • corn
  • dairy products
  • gluten
  • ingredients of animal origin
  • preservatives
  • salt
  • soy
  • sugar
  • wheat
  • yeast

This product contains natural ingredients; color variations are normal.

Notes

If pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use.

Distributed by an FDA-registered Drug Establishment.

**Based on 2000 calorie diet.

Other Ingredients

vegetable capsule (modified cellulose), cellulose, and ascorbyl palmitate.

UPC Codes: 871791001251

Nutrition composition of Similase GFCF

Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules Amount/Serving %DV Total Carbohydrate <1g <1%**

Pure Plant Enzymes™ Assay Method 543mg *

DPP IV Protease Blend (Protease I,II,III,IV,V) FCC (pH 4.7) 134,600HUT

FCC (pH 7.0) 22,660PC

USP (pH 7.5) 12,556USP

Amylase FCC (pH 4.8) 9,530DU

USP (pH 6.8) 12,800USP

Lipase I,II FCC (pH 6.5) 408LU

FIP (pH 7.0) 882FIP

Phytase Phytic Acid (pH 6.0) 0.67PU

Lactase I,II FCC (pH 4.5) 642ALU

Cellulase I, II FCC (pH 4.5) 141CU

Sucrase (Invertase) FCC (pH 4.6) 119INVU

This product does not contain

  • artificial coloring
  • artificial flavoring
  • corn
  • dairy products
  • gluten
  • ingredients of animal origin
  • preservatives
  • salt
  • soy
  • sugar
  • wheat
  • yeast

This product contains natural ingredients; color variations are normal.

Notes

Caution: While Similase GFCF will reduce the level of reactive gliadin and gluten proteins in a meal, it is advised that celiac disease sufferers continue with their normal gluten exclusion diet as even small amounts of gliadin can cause adverse reactions in the most sensitized individuals. If pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use.

**Based on 2000 calorie diet.

Other Ingredients

cellulose, vegetable capsule (modified cellulose), inulin (from chicory root), and silicon dioxide.

UPC Codes: 871791003866
Product Numbers: 106002, 136001, 74239

Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)


Natural Support For This Troublesome Condition

Sinusitis is an infection of the sinus passages, usually the frontal (head/eyes) or nasal sinuses. Symptoms may include a thick nasal discharge, pain or tenderness over the involved sinuses, headache and sometimes fever with chills. Such infection can be a one-time occurrence but is more commonly chronic and recurrent.

Recent studies have shown that antibiotic therapy is largely useless for sinusitis. Only in cases of severe pain or when symptoms have been present for more than two weeks are antibiotics sometimes indicated. Another study has shown that over 90% of people with sinusitis have some degree of yeast or fungus growing in their sinus cavities.

Anything that causes swelling of the mucous membrane (internal “skin” that lines the sinus cavities) can block normal drainage of the sinuses and lead to infection. Common causes of chronic & recurrent sinusitis include food allergy, respiratory allergy, low immune function and dental infection. (Dental infection is a frequently-overlooked cause of chronic sinusitis).

Treatment involves both acute management AND correction of underlying, predisposing factors.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • For acute sinusitis: Follow recommendations for diet listed under Colds and Flu. Avoid the foods listed below under “chronic sinusitis” during an acute attack.
  • For chronic sinusitis: Assess for food allergies. Milk, wheat, corn, citrus and peanut butter are common food allergens associated with sinusitis. It may be wise to avoid these foods until definitive allergy-testing is completed.
  • Have a dental check-up if you have not had one in the past six months.

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) and bioflavonoids are especially important in treating sinusitis.
  • Max EPA (Omega-3 rich fish oil): 1-2 caps, 3 times per day with meals (target dose: 3-6 caps per day). Fish oil is anti-inflammatory.
  • Immune support: 2 caps, 1-2 times per day for general immune enhancement.

Additional Support

During acute episodes:

  • Bromelain: 2 caps, 4 times per day between meals. With improvement, decrease to 1 cap, 3-4 times per day. Bromelain thins mucous so it can exit the sinus passages. It will also aid with mucous digestion once this gunk makes it’s way to the stomach.
  • Use all recommendations for acute infection.
  • Use hot packs over the sinuses during acute attacks for pain relief and decongestion.
  • Inspirol inhalant – the most potent inhalant you’ve ever used! Breathe this at least 4 times per day, but up to hourly or more if needed, during acute infection.

Tests

  • Review the symptoms of Candidiasis. If you have more than 4 of the listed symptoms, consider having a Candida test performed.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

Correction of the underlying factors involved in chronic or recurrent sinusitis, such as food allergy and Candidiasis, will nearly always correct the problem. If you have had chronic sinusitis for many years, be patient. Complete correction may take a year or more. Patients who have overcome chronic sinusitis problems tell me it’s well worth the effort.

 

Skin Rejuvenation


With Natural Cosmetics

Overview

The skin (integument) is a semi-permeable barrier that represents the body’s first line of defense in protection from the external environment. It is also one of the first things that people notice about us. Healthy skin is both a cosmetic blessing and a sign of healthy underlying systemic terrain.

In this presentation, we will focus on a program of rejuvenation designed to restore skin to a more healthful, beautiful state.

Functions of the Skin

The skin is often under-appreciated for the numerous benefits it affords us. It protects the body from mechanical, chemical and thermal injury. With the help of glandular secretions, skin provides a first line of defense against many pathogenic microorganisms. By virtue of its immunologically active cells, skin takes part in the defense mechanisms of the body.

The skin assists in regulating the water balance of the body. It both protects the body against desiccation (conserves water) and provides a method of loss of fluid and mineral salts (eliminates water). It also provides assistance to the kidneys in eliminating water-soluble toxins via such fluid loss.

Skin helps maintain body temperatures by its ability to regulate deep and superficial circulation and its ability to sweat, which provides a form of evaporative cooling.

With its many sensory nerve endings, the skin acts as a sense organ for pressure, temperature and pain. The ability of skin to blush, sustain piloerection (hairs standing up), express pallor, etc. means that the skin is also a communication method from the autonomic nervous system to the outside world.

GI-Liver-Kidney health are necessary for clear skin. The skin is an organ of elimination. The composition of perspiration is very similar to urine, only more dilute. Acne, boils and other infective skin diseases represent eliminatory attempts on the part of the body. Gut-derived endotoxins are absorbed from the large intestine into the hepatic-portal vein where they proceed to the liver for detoxification. Toxic substances are rendered water soluble in the liver and proceed to general circulation, and then to the kidneys for removal. When more toxins are presented to the kidneys than they can efficiently remove, the skin will also begin to eliminate the excess water soluble toxins. Such toxins can irritate, inflame and infect the skin, just as they can the kidneys and urinary tract. Taking steps to detoxify the gut-liver-kidney axis is an important first measure whenever infective skin conditions exist. [Refer to notes on Detoxification for a comprehensive list of herbs and natural remedies to accomplish this].

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Diet: The skin requires essential fatty acids, antioxidants and a wide variety of nutrients. Be sure to include ample berries and green vegetables in the diet, and minimize Omega-6 fatty acid intake (please refer to The Super Fast Diet for more information about healthful Omega Ratios).
  • Water: Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily. Water comprises over 60% of the adult human body. Water keeps the skin “plump” and prevents the appearance of fine lines. Even subtle deficiencies of water will cause minor skin lines to appear deeper and more noticeable. Dry skin is often also associated with subtle dehydration.
  • Don’t smoke! Smoking constricts superficial blood vessels that supply the epidermis with water and nutrients. Although the skin can sustain brief periods of diminished blood flow without incident, continuous deprivation of nutrients and water, as caused by cigarette smoking, greatly hastens the aging process of the skin. Additionally, cigarette smoking requires a person to repeatedly “purse” the lips. This, combined with compromised nutrition, accelerates the development of fine lines around the mouth.
  • Ultraviolet light is beneficial to the skin and body in small amounts. Sunlight is antimicrobial to the skin and stimulates the body’s endogenous production of vitamin D. Excessive ultraviolet light, as from the sun or tanning booths, is associated with premature skin aging, excessive discoloration (“age spots”) and increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma.
  • Use Healthful Cosmetics. cosmetics applied to the skin can effect its appearance and function. Because the skin is a semi permeable barrier, ingredients in cosmetics can be absorbed into the body.

    PRIMARY SUPPORT

    • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses all vitamins but especially vitamins A,C,E, carotenes, sulfur, silicon and bioflavonoids are particularly important to the skin.
    • 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).
    • Grape Seed Extract: (100mg): 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals. The PCO’s in Grape Seed Extract help maintain and improve the skin’s elasticity.

    A Basic Regimen for Skin Care

      1.) Cleanse. The purpose of this is to remove surface debris and aid in the exfoliation. Cleansing should be accomplished with a mild soap such as Dove or with a gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh alkali products (most soaps) which strip the skin of natural oils.

      2.) Exfoliate. Exfoliation involves removing the most superficial layer of the skin by mechanical or chemical means to accelerate the turnover of new skin cells. This exposes new skin sooner, giving a more youthful appearance. Exfoliation can also remove bumps and rough spots and “buff” smother skin. There are a variety of ways to exfoliate.
      A.) Mechanical, using scrubs that contain fine-textured particles such as salt, kelp, finely group walnut or other nut shells, or synthetics. Start with a very fine grain of scrub and use slowly, giving the skin time to get used to the abrasiveness. Skin brushing with a very soft, fine-bristle brush accomplishes exfoliation and buffs the skin to a fine texture.
      B.) Chemical, using alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s): citric, lactic, or glycolic acids found in fruit. These provide chemical exfoliation and make the skin more receptive to whatever cream or lotion is to follow. They can be used alone, especially at night, for oil-prone skin. There are many AHA-containing products now available, ranging from .05-.10% acids. Stronger acids are available from a dermatologist or aesthetician.

      3.) Moisturize. Use any pure product that contains fixed oils or fatty acids to help seal the skin and prevent moisture loss. Even oily skin needs to conserve water. A light, non-greasy moisturizer can be used. Rejuvenex cream contains healthful moisturizers and antioxidants which protect the skin from free radical damage.

      4.) Protect. Use good sunscreen that contains at least an SPF of 15 and protection against UVB and UVA light. Sun damage greatly accelerates signs of skin aging including wrinkles, pigmented spots and patches, and skin cancer. Rejuvenex cream contains sunscreens to protect from both UVA and UVB radiation. It can be used alone or under makeup.

    Special Treatments for Skin

      Special treatments for skin include packs, masks, and deep-cleaning regimens that can be used once per week (more with oily skin) to give deeper therapeutic benefit.

      1.) Clay packs. Made from bentonite or other clays, have a drawing effect which helps lift impurities from the pores. Essential oils can be added to the clay to give additional benefits. Lavender essential oil is soothing. All essential oils have antimicrobial properties and are useful in cases of acne where bacteria are involved.

      2.) Moisturizing masks: Mashed avocado makes a wonderful mask that leaves skin feeling soft and highly moisturized. Other substances that can be used include mayonnaise and Crisco (vegetable lard).

      3.) Exfoliating masks: Mashed papaya contains papain, an enzyme which gives a deeper exfoliating treatment to the skin. Plain yogurt contains lactic acid, strawberries contain fruit acids. Any or all of these can be used as pure, gentle, exfoliating masks.

      Additional information about skin health you may find of interest:

    Botanical Materia Medica for Skin Rejuvenation

      Any and all herbs used for systemic detoxification are potentially useful in skin rejuvenation. Please refer to Detoxification.

      Gota Kola—Centella asiatica (Umbellifereae)

      Gotu kola is an Ayruvedic herb that is now popular in the West. It contains triterpene saponins, alkaloids, bitter principals, and is antimicrobial. It is credited with numerous actions, including anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic and antiseptic. Its effect on skin is to normalize connective tissue metabolism by stimulating glycosaminoglycan synthesis without promoting excessive collagen formation.

      The herb is also used for varicose veins because of its ability to enhance the structure of the connective tissue sheath, reduce sclerosis and improve blood flow.

      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 cells.

      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.

      Chamomile—Matricaria recutita, Anthemis nobilis

      German and Roman chamomile are used interchangeably, especially for the skin. Both contain chamazulene, an anti-inflammatory agent that is commonly used in face creams.

      Lavender—Lavendula angustifolia

      Lavender contains up to 3% volatile oils. It is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial. As such, the essential oils make a worthy addition to cosmetics, especially for those with acne or oily skin. Essential oil of lavender is one of the few essential oils that can be applied undiluted. It is useful for burns, cuts and abrasions to the skin.

      Essential Fatty Acid-Containing Botanicals

      Linoleic fatty-acid containing oils favor the production of the prostaglandin three series (anti-inflammatory). The essential composition favors adequate skin oil production without inflammation.

      Borago officinalis (Borage seed)

      Linum usitatissimum (Flax seed)

      Oenothera biennis (Evening Primrose)

      Ribes spp. (Black and Red Currant, Gooseberries)

      Other Herbs to Consider for Skin Health

      Aloe vera—Aloe

      Any flavonoid-containing herb may benefit the skin because of the stabilizing effect on the vascular system which decreases capillary fragility. Flavonoids also demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects

SMOKING…….JUST THE FACTS

  • Smoking weakens the immune system by inhibiting cellular immunity.
  • Tobacco smoke contains carbon monoxide, a substance that is toxic to the brain.
  • Tobacco smoking is associated with a higher incidence of gingivitis and tooth loss.
  • Tobacco smoke contains cadmium, a heavy metal that can cause high blood pressure, kidney stones, and other toxic symptoms.
  • Tobacco smoke induces the formation of free radicals – highly reactive molecules that can bind to normal, healthy cells and destroy them.
  • Smokers have a higher incidence of peptic ulcer disease, a decreased response to anti-ulcer medications, and a higher mortality from peptic ulcer.
  • Female smokers are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
  • Female smokers are at higher risk for premature menopause.
  • Smoking accelerates skin aging and wrinkle formation.
  • Smoking causes a decrease in penile blood flow and can cause impotence in males.
  • Smokers have a three to five-fold increase in coronary artery disease compared to non-smokers.
  • Smoking is associated with the development of urinary tract cancer, bowel cancer, pancreatic cancer, cervical and uterine cancer – and yes, lung cancer.
  • Smoking is a potent risk factor for atherosclerosis.
  • 40% of heavy smokers die before they reach retirement age.
  • Nicotine causes adrenaline release, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, diarrhea, and high blood pressure.
  • Hydrogen cyanide, a chemical in tobacco smoke, causes inflammation of the bronchi which leads to bronchitis. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema often eventually result.
  • The adrenal stimulation caused by nicotine can aggravate hypoglycemia. Eventually, adrenal exhaustion results.
  • The American Lung Association reports that 350,000 Americans die each year from cigarette smoking. This is more than the combined deaths from illegal drugs, traffic accidents, suicide, homicide, and alcohol.

Don’t Kid Yourself.
Smoking tobacco is incompatible with a healthy lifestyle.

 

What’s Burning You?

The REAL Cause of Heartburn, Indigestion and GERD and “Sour Stomach”

Older people have considerably more digestive problems than younger folks, and this has typically but incorrectly been blamed on over-production of stomach acid. Not only have medical studies debunked excess stomach acid as the cause of indigestion, but common sense debunks the myth as well.

Why does this matter? Because the chronic use of antacids and acid-blocking drugs for indigestion has some dangerous and even deadly side-effects

The “Acid Over-Production” Myth Debunked

Do you really think that some bodily function starts working better with age? Hahahaha!

With age, nothing works as well as it did in earlier years. I hope I’m not popping anyone’s bubble here.

Come on – we don’t move as fast at age 57 as we did at 27. Vision and hearing are typically less acute in our 70s than they were in our 30s. Skin is less elastic at 69 than at 29. Production of hormones and body fluids decreases with age. Why would we think that our stomachs do the opposite of all other organs and become more active with age instead of less active? Only a drug salesman or a pill-pushing doctor would try to convince us of such foolishness.

The stomach’s primary job is to digest protein and emulsify fats, and it does this by making an extremely powerful acid called hydrochloric acid (HCL) and a protein-digesting enzyme called pepsin. The hydrochloric acid made by a healthy stomach is one million times stronger than the mild acidity of urine or saliva. A leather-like strip of jerky can be quickly turned into “beef soup” by the action of hydrochloric acid and pepsin in the stomach. That’s how normal digestion is supposed to work.

But just like the rest of an aging body, the stomach’s hydrochloric acid and pepsin production decreases over time. As a result, we do not digest food as well. The term “indigestion” implies lack of digestion, not over-digestion. This is why we can’t eat a whole pepperoni pizza washed down with a bottle of soda like we did when we were teenagers. Our aging stomachs don’t have the same digestive vigor – strong hydrochloric acid and pepsin – to digest food like youthful stomachs do.

Medical Science Verifies Low Acid Production

OK, that’s the common sense of it. Now here’s the science. Many older studies conducted on several thousand people in the 1930?s and 1940?s showed that half of all people by age 60 were functioning at only 50% gastric acid output. Numerous contemporary studies verify that that stomach acid production often declines with age.

The Bottom Line: when someone over age 40 has chronic or chronic / intermittent indigestion, that indigestion is almost certainly due to a weaker stomach with less acid and pepsin output, not a stronger stomach making more digestive juices.

“But My Symptoms Feel Like Too Much Acid…”

Strong stomach acid and pepsin quickly “emulsify” fats and proteins, making them ready for the next step of digestion, passage into the small intestine. When these digestive factors are weak, food remains in the stomach for longer and it begins to ferment. Gas pressure from the fermentation can cause bloating and discomfort and can can also cause the esophageal sphincter to open, allowing stomach contents to “backwash” into the esophagus.

Even though weak stomach acid is the central cause of this, even this weak stomach acid, which has no place in the esophagus, will “burn.” This burning sensation confuses many people, including doctors, who then “ASSuME” that excess acid is to blame. Too little acid, resulting in slowed digestion, and gas which creates back-pressure into the esophagus is the real cause of almost all “heartburn” and GERD.

Why People Take Acid-Blockers

Why in the world would anyone take antacids or acid blockers to correct a deficiency of stomach acid? In two words: symptom relief.

But if heartburn or gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are caused by too little stomach acid, why does blocking more of the acid relieve the discomfort? And why isn’t that a good thing to do?

Remember, even weak stomach acid does not belong in the esophagus. When ALL acid production is blocked, the “backwash” of stomach contents into the esophagus will not burn. However, repeatedly using this “band-aid” method has some serious long-term consequences.

The Dangers of Antacids and Acid-Blocking Drugs

Our bodies need 60 or so essential nutrients. “Essential” means that the body MUST have this nutrient or death will eventually ensue, and the nutrient must be obtained from diet because the body cannot manufacture it. Many of these essential nutrients require stomach acid for their assimilation. When stomach acid production declines, nutrient deficiencies begin.

Calcium, for example, requires vigorous stomach acid in order to be assimilated. Interestingly, the rate of hip replacement surgery is much higher in people who routinely use antacids and acid-blocking drugs. We know that people who have “acid stomach” were already having trouble assimilating calcium from food and nutritional supplements due to lack of normal stomach acid production. When these symptoms are “band-aided” with drugs which decrease stomach acid even more, calcium assimilation can come to a near-halt. The result? Weak bones, hip fractures and joint complaints resulting in major surgery.

Jonathan Wright, M.D., well-known and respected holistic physician, states that:

“Although research in this area is entirely inadequate, its been my clinical observation that calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, chromium, selenium, manganese, vanadium, molybdenum, cobalt, and many other micro-trace elements are not nearly as well-absorbed in those with poor stomach acid as they are in those whose acid levels are normal. When we test plasma amino acid levels for those with poor stomach function, we frequently find lower than usual levels of one or more of the eight essential amino acids: isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Often there are functional insufficiencies of folic acid and/or vitamin B12.”

Remember, these are essential nutrients. Deficiencies of any single one of them can cause serious health problems over time. Weak bones, diminish immune function, failing memory, loss of eyesight and many other “diseases of aging” are often the result of decreased stomach function.

Ulcers can even be caused by too little acid. Surprised? We know today that most ulcers are caused by a bacterium called h. pylori. This little beastie is killed by strong stomach acid. But when stomach acid is weak, watch out! Weak stomach acid is how h. pylori gets a foot-hold. (People with active ulcers should not supplement hydrochloric acid until the ulcer has healed).

Diseases Associated with Low Gastric Function

Low stomach acid is associated with the following conditions:

  • Acne rosacea
  • Addison’s disease
  • Allergic reactions
  • Candidiasis (chronic)
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Celiac disease
  • Childhood asthma
  • Chronic autoimmune hepatitis
  • Chronic cough
  • Dermatitis herpeteformis
  • Diabetes (type I)
  • Eczema
  • Gallbladder disease
  • GERD
  • Graves disease (hyperthyroid)
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Laryngitis (chronic)
  • Lupus erythromatosis
  • Macular degeneration
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Muscle Cramps
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Pernicious anemia
  • Polymyalgia rheumatica
  • Reynaud’s syndrome
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Scleroderma
  • Sjogren’s syndrome
  • Stomach cancer
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Vitiligo

It also appears that many cases of depression, which appear related to too little neurotransmitters (which in turn are made from amino acids) may in fact be inability to absorb the necessary precursors due to – you guessed it – low stomach acid. I suspect there are a large number of other diseases that begin with a failing digestive system and that have not yet been recognized as such.

Even so, many people who have low stomach acid do not have symptoms of heartburn, “acid indigestion” or GERD.

The Gastric Acid Function Test

Here’s a simple question. Before your doctor diagnosed GERD from “too much stomach acid,” did he/she perform a stomach acid function test?

X-rays and gastroscopy do not evaluate stomach acid production. The medical test for stomach acid, called the Heidelberg test, requires swallowing a small capsule and then having it pulled back up on a “string.” You’d remember if you had this done. Interestingly, this test is ALMOST NEVER PERFORMED before excess stomach acid is diagnosed, hence the incorrect diagnosis!

Why The Blind Spot In Medicine?

From the 1800’s up until the 1950’s, hydrochloric acid (HCl) supplements (both with and without pepsin) were widely prescribed and used. Physicians simply considered replacement of digestive acid to be like replacement of thyroid hormone for a failing thyroid or hormone replacement for aging ovaries.

In the 1950’s, some badly designed and misinterpreted “research” was used to convince physicians that HCl and pepsin replacement therapy is unnecessary. Besides, the “replacement” therapy – HCL and pepsin – are natural substances that are difficult to patent. Instead, drug companies focused on patentable drugs to treat “hyperchlorhydria” (excess stomach acid), and the highly profitable prescription and OTC acid blocking drug industry was born.

Once again I ask: if a doctor diagnosed you with excess stomach acid, did he or she actually perform the Heidelberg test? If you diagnosed yourself, did you perform a gastric acid self-test? No? I rest my case.

The Gastric Acid Function Self-Test

Fortunately, the Heidelberg test is not required to arrive at a correct diagnosis of too little stomach acid. You can perform a gastric acid self-test at home using some betain HCL capsules taken with meals. If digestion improves – bingo! You’re hydrochloric acid deficient.

This issue of low stomach acid is central to so many diseases that I recommend a gastric acid self-test to EVERYONE over age 50 and anyone under age 50 who has any medical complaint related to nutrient deficiency.

I’ve put together an inexpensive yet highly effective “Gastric Acid Function Self Test Kit” that includes full instructions for testing your own stomach acid (it’s easy with the instructions) plus “test sizes” of the supplements – including hydrochloric acid and pepsin – needed for the test.

Testing your own digestive function is simple and easy, and it could save you much grief, sickness, and yes, heartburn.

References

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2.) Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders in the Elderly, pp. 62-69. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone: 1984.
3.) Age related changes in gut physiology and nutritional status. Gut. 1996 Mar; 38(3):306-9.
4.) A retrospective study of the usefulness of acid secretory testing. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2000 Jan;14(1):103-11.
5.) Age related changes in gut physiology and nutritional status. Gut. 1996 Mar;38(3):306-9.
6.) Hypochlorhydria: a factor in nutrition. Annu Rev Nutr. 1989;9:271-85.
7.) Gastric hypochlorhydria and achlorhydria in older adults. JAMA. 1997 Nov 26;278(20):1659-60.
8.) The aging gut. Nutritional issues. Int J Nurs Pract. 2006 Apr;12(2):110-8. Summary: Aging is associated with decreased gastric output.
9.) The aging gut. Nutritional issues. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 1998 Jun;27(2):309-24.
10.) Changes in gastrointestinal function attributed to aging. Am J Clin Nutr. 1992 Jun;55(6 Suppl):1203S-1207S.
11.) Digestive function and aging. Hum Nutr Clin Nutr. 1983 Mar;37(2):75-89.
12.) Symptomatic gastro-oesophageal reflux in a patient with achlorhydria. Gut. 2006 Jul;55(7):1054-5.
13.) Effects of aging process on digestive functions. Compr Ther. 1991 Aug;17(8):46-52.
14.) Fundic atrophic gastritis in an elderly population. Effect on hemoglobin and several serum nutritional indicators. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1986 Nov;34(11):800-6.
15.) Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency in elderly patients. CMAJ. 2004 Aug 3;171(3):251-9.
16.) Anemia caused by vitamin B 12 deficiency in subjects aged over 75 years: new hypotheses. A study of 20 cases. Rev Med Interne. 2000 Nov;21(11):946-54.
17.) Cobalamin, the stomach, and aging. Am J Clin Nutr. 1997 Oct;66(4):750-9.
18.) Age-related changes in cobalamin (vitamin B12) handling. Implications for therapy. Drugs Aging. 1998 Apr;12(4):277-92.
19.) Intestinal malabsorption in the elderly. Digestive Diseases. 2007;25(2):144-50.
20.) Gastric acid secretion in chronic iron-deficiency anaemia. Lancet. 1966 Jul 23;2(7456):190-2.
21.) Involvement of the corporal mucosa and related changes in gastric acid secretion characterize patients with iron deficiency anaemia associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2001 Nov;15(11):1753-61.
22.) The aging process as a modifier of metabolism. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000 Aug;72(2 Suppl):529S-32S.
23.) Low gastric hydrochloric acid secretion and mineral bioavailability. Adv Exp Med Biol. 1989;249:173-84.
24.) Effects of pH on mineral-phytate, protein-mineral-phytate, and mineral-fiber interactions. Possible consequences of atrophic gastritis on mineral bioavailability from high-fiber foods. J Am Coll Nutr. 1988 Dec;7(6):499-508.
25.) Long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy and risk of hip fracture. JAMA. 2006 Dec 27;296(24):2947-53.
26.) Antral atrophy, Helicobacter pylori colonization, and gastric pH. Am J Clin Pathol. 1996 Jan;105(1):96-101.
27.) High acid secretion may protect the gastric mucosa from injury caused by ammonia produced by Helicobacter pylori in duodenal ulcer patients. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1996 Jul;11(7):674-80.
28.) Rosacea keratitis and conditions with vascularization of the cornea treated with riboflavin. Arch Ophthamol 1940;23:899–907.
29.) Incidence of anti-Helicobacter pylori and anti-CagA antibodies in rosacea patients. Int J Dermatol. 2003 Aug;42(8):601-4.30.) Gastrointestinal findings in atopic children. Eur J Pediatr 1980;134:249–54.
31.) Suppression of gastric H2-receptor mediated function in patients with bronchial asthma and ragweed allergy.
Chest 1986;89:491–6.
32.) Allison JR. The relation of hydrochloric acid and vitamin B complex deficiency in certain sk
in diseases. South Med J 1945;38:235–41.
33.) Effect of hydrochloric acid on iron absorption. N Engl J Med 1968;279:672–4.
34.) The importance of gastric hydrochloric acid in the absorption of nonheme food iron. J Lab Clin Med 1978;92:108–16.
35.) Bray GW. The hypochlorhydria of asthma in childhood. Q J Med 1931;24:181–97.
36.) Candida overgrowth in gastric juice of peptic ulcer subjects on short- and long-term treatment with H2-receptor antagonists. Digestion.1983;28:158–63.
37.) Antibacterial activity of the pancreatic fluid. Gastroenterology 1985;88:927–32 [review].
38.) Non-immunological defense mechanisms of the gut. Gut 1990;33:1331–7 [review].
39.) Characterization of gastric mucosal lesions in patients with celiac disease: a prospective controlled study.Am J Gastroenterol. 1999 May;94(5):1313-9.
40.) Chronic cough due to gastroesophageal reflux disease: failure to resolve despite total/near-total elimination of esophageal acid. Chest. 2002 Apr;121(4):1132-40.
41.) Gastric lesion in dermatitis herpetiformis.Gut.1976 Mar;17(3):185-8.
42.) Auto-immune atrophic gastritis in patient with dermatitis herpetiformis. Acta Derm Venereol. 1976;56(2):111-3.
43.) Predictive value of gastric parietal cell autoantibodies as a marker for gastric and hematologic abnormalities associated with insulin-dependent diabetes. Diabetes. 1982 Dec;31(12):1051-5.
44.) Parietal cell antibodies and gastric secretion in children with diabetes mellitus. Acta Paediatr Scand. 1980 Jul;69(4):485-9.
45.) Oesophageal acid exposure and altered neurocardiac function in patients with GERD and idiopathic cardiac dysrhythmias. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2006 Jul 15;24(2):361-70.
46.) Capper WM, Butler TJ, Kilby JO, Gibson MJ. Gallstones, gastric secretion and flatulent dyspepsia. Lancet 1967;i:413–5.
47.) Gastric juice nitrite and vitamin C in patients with gastric cancer and atrophic gastritis: is low acidity solely responsible for cancer risk? Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2003 Sep;15(9):987-93.
48.) Correlation of ratio of serum pepsinogen I and II with prevalence of gastric cancer and adenoma in Japanese subjects. Am J Gastroenterol. 1998 Jul;93(7):1090-6.
49.) Atrophic body gastritis in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease: an underdiagnosed association. Arch Intern Med. 1999 Aug 9-23;159(15):1726-30.
50.) Early manifestations of gastric autoimmunity in patients with juvenile autoimmune thyroid diseases.J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2004 Oct;89(10):4944-8.
51.) Review article: the role of pH monitoring in extraoesophageal gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2006 Mar; 23 Suppl 1:40-9. Summary: association with laryngitis, non-cardiac chest pain, etc.
52.) Age-Related Eye Disease Study Group. Risk factors associated with age-related macular degeneration. Opthamology.
53.) Altered gastric acidity in patients with multiple sclerosis. Cesk Gastroenterol Vyz. 1968 Dec;22(8):526-30.
54.) Gastroesophageal reflux disease, acid suppression, and Mycobacterium avium complex pulmonary disease. Chest. 2007 Apr;131(4):1166-72.
55.) Malabsorption of vitamin B12 in dermatitis herpetiformis and its association with pernicious anaemia. Acta Med Scand. 1986;220(3):261-8
56.) Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 1993 Jul;52(7):503-10.
57.) Hartung EF, Steinbroker O. Gastric acidity in chronic arthritis. Ann Intern Med 1935;9:252.
58.) Hypochlorhydria and hypergastrinaemia in rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 1979 Feb;38(1):14-7
59.) Francis HW. Achlorhydria as an etiological factor in vitiligo, with report of four cases. Nebraska State Med J 1931;16(1):25–6.

Osteoarthritis (OA, Arthritis)


Safe, Natural Support For This Painful Condition

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a common occurrence in people over age fifty. Weight-bearing joints are most often affected. Early symptoms include pain and stiffness that are worse in the morning or after inactivity. With progression of the disease, movement causes aggravation of symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is caused by a combination of factors, including wear and tear of cartilage, free radical damage to joint material, lack of nutrients, dietary imbalances and dehydration. Drugs used to treat arthritis, NSAIDS, provide temporary symptom relief but accelerate the underlying disease process. They should be used only for short periods of time while corrective measures are being initiated.

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Eat cold water fish (salmon, mackerel, halibut) in preference to chicken, beef or pork; eat plenty of green vegetables.
  • Avoid known food allergens. The nightshade family of vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, potato) are specific allergens for many people with arthritis. Consider an elimination/challenge diet to evaluate.
  • Achieve and maintain a normal weight. Excess weight puts extra wear and tear on joints.
  • Exercise regularly. Studies have shown a decrease of painful symptoms and an increase in mobility in people who exercise regularly. See BACK PAIN for specific low back exercises.
  • Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily.
  • Do not smoke. Smoking generates high levels of free radicals.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal doses (not minimal doses) of vitamin A, C, E, B5, B6, niacin, pantothenic acid, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium, boron and vanadium are especially important.
  • 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).
  • Glucosamine Sulfate: (750mg, pharmaceutical grade): 2 caps, 2 times per day for 6 weeks, then 1 cap, 2 times per day after that. (target dose: 3,000 mg for 8 weeks [until significant improvement is noted] then 1,500 mg per day for maintenance).
  • Grape Seed extract (PCO’s): 50-100 mg, 3 times per day. (Target dose: 150-300 mg per day).

Additional Support

  • MSM (fundamental sulfur): 1,000 mg, 2-3 times per day with meals.
    AND
  • Turmeric: 1 cap, 2-3 times per day between meals, OR Feverfew: 1 cap, 1-2 times per day.

For acute symptoms (While waiting for Glucosamine Sulfate to take effect)

  • Bromelain: 2 caps, 3 times per day between meals for 4 weeks, then 1 cap, 3 times daily thereafter.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

If self-help measures fail to give improvement in three months, please consult an holistic physician. This is one condition that can be greatly helped and even cured through natural medicine. I am available for telephone consultations. 

OSTEOPOROSIS


Prevent or Reverse the “Bone Thinning Disease”

Osteoporosis means, literally, “porous bone.” It is a bone-thinning disease that affects an estimated 28 million Americans. Osteoporosis is called a “silent” disease because it comes on with few or no symptoms. Often, a fall resulting in a fracture is the first evidence of weakened bones. Other symptoms and signs of osteoporosis include a decrease in height, spontaneous hip or vertebrae fractures, and back pain.

In elderly women, complications from hip fracture that result in death are far more common than death from breast cancer, yet few people realize the potential seriousness of this condition. Although osteoporosis is more common in post-menopausal women, it also occurs in younger women, men, and in all age groups. White and Asian women are at greatest risk because their bones tend to be less dense to begin with.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

There are a number of factors that can be involved in the development of osteoporosis. These include:

  • Lack of vitamins and minerals. Osteoporosis is caused by a demineralization of bone. Although calcium is one of the major bone minerals, there are a number or other minerals found in normal bone. These include boron, copper, magnesium, manganese, silicon, strontium and zinc. Vitamins B6, K, D, C and folic acid are also needed for normal bone mineralization. A deficiency of any of these can accelerate bone loss.
  • Gastric acid or digestive enzyme deficiency. Hydrochloric acid (gastric acid) and digestive enzymes are necessary for the assimilation of minerals, yet more than half of the general population over age 60 is deficient in one or both of these digestive functions. A gastric acid self-test is indicated for anyone with osteoporosis regardless of age.
  • Lack of physical activity. Exercise that stresses bone causes an uptake of minerals. Conversely, immobility leads to a demineralization of bone. Exercise alone has been shown to increase bone mineral density.
  • Dietary factors. Certain dietary factors can hasten the loss of minerals from bone. These factors include diet high in sugar and starch, excess phosphorus in the diet (as found in soda pop, processed foods, and meat), excess alcohol consumption, and possibly excess caffeine consumption (more than two cups per day).
  • Cigarette smoking.
  • Certain drugs, especially adrenal steroids (cortisone and prednisone).
  • Heavy metal toxicity. Certain heavy metals, which may be introduced into the body through cigarette smoke, drinking water, and a number of other sources, can trigger demineralization of bone by displacing the normal bone minerals. A hair mineral analysis is accurate for evaluating toxic mineral levels. Because there is substantial evidence that fluoride found in drinking water and toothpaste contributes to destruction of bone, use of pure (non fluoridated) water and alternative toothpaste is highly advisable.
  • Stress. Perhaps because perceived stress changes digestive and assimilative abilities, although the exact mechanism is unclear. Stress also increases adrenal steroid hormone output, see factor # 6 above.
  • Sex hormone imbalance. Alterations or decline in sex hormones, including estrogens, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA are significant factors in bone demineralization in both men and women.
    A female hormone profile or male hormone profile should be performed to evaluate potential sex hormone deficiencies and imbalances, especially in those over age 40.
  • Food allergies. When a person is allergic or intolerant to a food, they are unable to digest it completely. Incompletely digested food plus  possible antibodies created by food reactions damage the villi of the duodenum (the finger-like projections of the intestine that are vital for the absorption of nutrients). This reduces the amount of nutrients that are absorbed into the bloodstream.

    Which nutrients are most effected? Calcium, iron, iodine, all B complex vitamins, vitamin C, most water-soluble vitamins, and most of the trace minerals such as zinc, boron, manganese and magnesium— many of the same vitamins and minerals necessary for bone health.

  • Other factors. These include genetic predisposition and various disease states.

What About The New Drugs for Osteoporosis?

A new class of drugs, the bisphosphonates, cause a bone-rebuilding response that is 5% greater than placebo in most women who use them. For some, this is enough of an effect to help prevent fracture. For others, the drugs alone are insufficient to prevent consequences of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates have side-effects that can be problematic, including GERD (heartburn), diarrhea and immune suppression (one side effect that is rarely mentioned). Their best use appears to be in cases of cancer, to prevent bone destruction.

Read “The Ugly Truth About Bone-Building Drugs” here

Obviously, osteoporosis is not caused by a bisphosphonate deficiency! There are, however, ways to reverse osteoporosis. This is because bone is a living, growing tissue, not a static material as some people wrongly believe. I recommend consultation with myself or another holistic physician for evaluation and recommendations for preventing or reversing osteoporosis. When the potential causes (as listed above) are carefully evaluated and discovered, osteoporosis can be halted and even reversed through non-drug methods.

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Eat a nutritious diet. Emphasize soy products, nonfat yogurt and milk, and green leafy vegetables.
  • Avoid soda pop (“pop is slop”) and use alcohol and coffee in moderation if at all.
  • Exercise regularly, especially weight-bearing exercise. Walking and running are some of the best exercises for increasing bone strength.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal doses (not minimal doses) of B complex vitamins, C, D, K, calcium, magnesium, vanadium, zinc, and boron are particularly important for strong bones. A “once per day” vitamin supplement does not supply anything close to an optimal daily dose of the necessary bone nutrients.
  • Cal-Mag Amino: Post-menopausal females take 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals in addition to the 1,000:500 mg from Maxi Multi. (Target: 1200-1500 mg/day calcium, 500-800 mg/day magnesium for post-menopausal women. Men and peri-menopausal females get sufficient calcium/magnesium/boron from Maxi Multi).
  • Strontium: 1 capsule, 1-2 times per day with or between meals (take separately from calcium).  One capsule per day is advised for prevention, 2 caps per day for those at high risk of osteoporosis or in already-established cases of osteoporosis. NOTE: Maxi Multi does not contain strontium. There is evidence that strontium should be taken away from calcium and magnesium for best absorption.
  • Vitamin D: Vitamin D increases calcium absorption. Deficiencies of Vitamin D are associated with cancer, osteoporosis, rheumatic pains, and dental disease. Please learn more in our Vitamin D Special Report. Daily adult dose range: 800-2,000 IU. Doses as high as 10,000 IU may be needed to normalize vitamin D levels. Vitamin D testing is easy and convenient and inexpensive – find Vitamin D tests here.
  • Vitamin K2: a blood clotting factor, it is also important in bone formation. Major deficiency associations include osteoporosis. The optimal adult dose range is 45 to 65 mcg. Vitamin K2 helps to direct calcium to the bone and out of blood vessel wall plaques.

Additional Support

  • Follow the recommendations for menopause if you are a peri-or post-menopausal female, or for male menopause if you are a male.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, it is best to consult an alternative medicine physician who can order a hormone profile test, evaluate risk factors, and get you on a precise program for bone-remineralization.  Osteoporosis is a reversible condition when treated correctly. Natural hormone replacement therapy is safe and effective for aiding bone loss but must be conducted with a physician’s guidance.

PARASITES


Natural Solutions To Deal With Parasitic Infections

Symptoms of acute parasite infection are usually obvious, but “sub-acute” (low grade infection) of parasites can cause or contribute to many health problems and the diagnosis is often missed in conventional medicine (for reasons which I describe below). Symptoms of sub-acute parasitic infection can include:

  • chronic GI symptoms (IBS, diarrhea, intestinal cramps, constipation)
  • chronic digestive complaints (belching, heartburn, malabsorption)
  • headaches
  • weight loss (unintended)
  • autoimmune disease
  • multiple food intolerances
  • chronic fatigue
  • fever, chills (especially if no other cause is found)

Parasites are, in the broadest sense, any organism that lives on or in another organism and detracts from the health and vigor of the host. An organism that lives on or in another organism but does NOT detract from the health and vigor of the host is referred to as a commensal. If the organisms benefit from their relationship with each other, they are known as symbiots and their relationship is called symbiosis.

Obviously, many relationships between organisms and humans can be considered parasitic: virus/human, bacteria/human, worm/human, even human/human! Medically speaking, the term parasite is most commonly understood to mean the relationship between a human host and a protozoa or worm. These relationships are almost always destructive to the host. In addition, certain bacteria, fungi, protozoa and amoebas have dual relationships with the host and can be either parasitic or commensal.

Because of their parasitic potential, parasite/commensals will be considered in addition to true parasite. Some examples of each include:

True Parasites

Protozoan: E. histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Plasmodium (4 species), Leshmania, Toxoplasmosis, Cryptosporidia

Worms: Enterobiasis (pinworm), Trichuriasis (whipworm), Ascariasis, Necator americanus (hookworm), Strongyloidiasis (threadworm), Trichinella, Wucheria bancroftii

Parasite/Commensals

Protozoan: Blastocystis hominis, Dientamoeba fragilis

Amoeba: Endolimax nana, E. histolytica, E. coli, Iodamoeba butschlie

Fungi: Candida albicans, candida spp.

Bacteria: Klebsiella pneumonia

Symptoms of Acute Parasitic Infection

History and symptoms have largely been regarded as the guiding factors for diagnosis of parasites. These symptoms vary according to the species of organism, what part of the body is infected, and the severity of the infestation.

Systemic symptoms of fever, chills, skin lesions, hemolytic anemia or jaundice, especially following out-of-country travel, often suggest the diagnosis. Overt GI symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, flatulence, epigastric pain, intermittent nausea and malodorous stools may indicate intestinal infection.

Holistic Consideration of Parasites

When history and/or symptoms are overt, a diagnosis of parasites may be readily suspected. Sub-acute infections resulting in low-grade GI symptoms are encountered routinely in general family practice but are frequently unrecognized as such. This problem of under-diagnosis is likely due to several factors:

  1. Lack of history of exposure. It is not necessary to travel out of the country to acquire a parasite. Many organisms present themselves in food. A history of world travel used to be a major factor guiding physicians to diagnosis. Today, however, it must be appreciated that any non-exotic parasite can be acquired locally.
  2. Sub-acute nature of symptoms: Acute parasitic infections, with attendant severity of GI or systemic symptoms, is often easier to diagnose than sub-acute infection. Sub-acute infection can be either caused by a true parasite or by a parasite/commensal and can trigger a variety of local complaints that are not typically thought of in conjunction with parasite, but should be.
  3. Inadequacy of laboratory evaluation. The first “weak link” in the diagnostic chain, especially in sub-acute infections, is often the physician. The second weak link can be the medical lab, the method of collection, or both.

Many medical labs are equipped to identify overt parasitism, especially when the specimen yield is high. When the percent yield is low, the organism is often missed. Further, exotic species are more often recognized than non-exotic species and parasitic/commensal organisms, which may be overlooked or under-reported. For example: Candida albicans, is rarely reported on a conventional stool assay because it is considered a commensal and therefore not thought of as infectious. However, an overgrowth of this organism is known to behave in parasitic fashion to the host.

What To Do If You Suspect Parasites

First, don’t “play doctor” unless you ARE one! See a physician about your complaint and get a “work-up” by conventional medical standards. This will probably include blood and perhaps urine analysis and physical diagnosis. IF nothing can be identified to explain your complaint AND you have symptoms on the list above, then it is time to have some additional testing performed by an alternative medicine physician to evaluate for a sub-acute parasitic infection. You need a physician consult for this.

Based on your symptoms, the appropriate tests FROM THE RIGHT LAB will be ordered. (Remember, many labs miss the diagnosis when the number of parasites present in the sample are small). I use laboratories that specialize in looking for low-grade parasitic infections, so if something is there, they will find it. Also, increasing the number of specimens has been proven to dramatically increase the likelihood of finding an offending organism. This is because parasites in the GI tract “shed” only periodically and are often missed by a single stool sample.

The most common tests needed to discover parasites include the Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis, Candida testing and a Gastric Acid Self-Test. Again, knowing which tests to order is a matter of clinical judgment that few laymen are prepared to make.

If you believe, based on your chronic symptoms and from what you have just learned, that you may have parasites as a cause of your problems, please give me a call for consultation. I can help you learn if parasites are a cause of your “undiagnosed” complaint.

Exact treatments will differ depending on the organism and location. There are some basic recommendations that apply to all parasitic infections, however.

Primary Support

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Parasites “sap” nutrients from the body and weaken the immune system. Especially important nutrients include vitamin A and B12, but any nutrient can be deficient based on the nutritional patterns of the parasite.
  • Fiber Formula: (helps transport killed organisms out of the body): 6 caps, 2 times per day between meals.
  • Chlorophyll: (water soluable; intestinal detoxifier): 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals.
  • Immune Support: 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals
  • SupremaDophilus: 1 cap before bed. Helps replace “friendly” gut bacteria.
  • Parasite Tincture: as directed by physician.
  • Berberine has been shown to have anti-protazoan effects

Additional Support

  • Colloidal Silver: 1-1/2 tsp. two times per day (for 140 pound body weight; adjust up or down as needed). Use 5ppm silver for 14 days.

    NOTE: Sub-acute parasitic infections are usually better treated by alternative medicine than by conventional drugs. The reason is that anti-parasitic medicines are toxic to the host as well as the parasite, and low-grade infections must be treated for a much longer duration of time to be sure that all organisms are killed.

Pau ‘d’ Arco


(Tabebuia spp.) [a.k.a. Lapacho]

Actions: Anti-tumor; anti-Candidal; antibiotic; immune stimulant; anti-inflammatory; tonic.

Uses: Candidiasis; fungus; immune stimulation; infections; cancer.