Search Results for: Well-Prepared COF-C02 Reliable Exam Topics - Professional COF-C02 Latest Dumps Questions - Excellent COF-C02 Valid Exam Topics 🐚 Search for ⮆ COF-C02 ⮄ on ➽ www.pdfvce.com 🢪 immediately to obtain a free download 🆚New COF-C02 Exam Practice

Super Fast Nutritional Supplements

Supplements needed for The Super Fast Diet can be found in your local health food store. However, finding them yourself is sometimes difficult. Because it is MOST IMPORTANT for you to obtain “optimal doses” of ALL nutrients, you will have to add up the nutrient content of 27 vitamins, minerals and trace minerals, plus numerous “green foods,” to be sure that you are getting the target doses without exceeding them. Even if you manage to mix and match and find formulas that fill this bill, you still have no assurance about the quality of the supplements you are purchasing.

In order to make things easier for you and be sure that you get “the right stuff,” I recommend the following products. The basic supplements are my own formulas. Taking these particular formulas ensures that you will obtain the optimal doses of all essential nutrients.

 Basic Super Fast Nutritional Supplements:
 

Maxi Multi: State-of-the-art formulation of vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, antioxidants and bioflavonoids with highly concentrated plant enzymes for easy assimilation. Specially formulated by Dr. Myatt to ensure optimal nutrition during The Super Fast Diet. 1 bottle (270 capsules, a 30 day supply). Regular price $39.95

Maxi Greens:  Complete Green Food / Flavonoid / Phytonutrient-Rich Herb Formula designed by Dr. Myatt. This herbal combination supplies the plant-derived nutrients missing in the Standard American Diet. 1 bottle (270  capsules, a 30 day supply) Reg $43.95 MaxEPA:  Natural Marine Lipids (fish oils) in soft gel capsules supply Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids in the most concentrated form available. MaxEPA is specially processed at low temperatures without chemicals. 1 bottle (200 capsules, a 30 day supply). Reg. $29.95 L-Glutamine Powder: Free-form amino acid that stimulates the production of Growth Hormone (GH), decreases sugar and alcohol cravings and helps prevent muscle tissue breakdown during dieting or strenuous exercise. 1 bottle (10.6 ounces, a one-month supply ) Reg. $29.95

 

 

Hyaluronan / Hyaluronic Acid


“Joint Juice”

Hyaluronic Acid, or Hyaluronan, is a major component of the lubricating fluid in our joints.

It has long been known that deterioration of hyaluronic acid in the fluid in joints can begin in people as young as 28 years old. As we age it is common for joints to become deficient in the hyaluronon molecule, causing a loss of “lubricity” of the fluid and resulting in the aches and pains in the joints that many of us just write off as “just getting older.”

So, what is hyaluronic acid (HA) anyway?

HA is the molecule that holds all the moisture in your body in place. HA is present in the fluid that coats your muscle sheaths, in your connective tissues, in your eyes, your skin and hair and in the fluid that keeps your joints, tendons and ligaments elastic. It provides the “slipperiness.”

Supplementing with HA has been shown to dramatically improve aches, pains, and ability to perform athletic exercise.

PlayAgain HyaluronanThere is only one HA supplement available that meets Dr. Myatt’s standards – it is a high molecular weight liquid form of HA that is easily and quickly absorbed through the tissues of the mouth and esophogus (throat).

Why is this important? It is important because low molecular weight HA does not tend to find it’s way to the areas where it is needed – the joints and connective tissues. HA in tablet or capsule form must be absorbed from the gut – reducing availability even further.

That HA supplement is a product called PlayAgain.

Nurse Mark has been using PlayAgain and here is what he found:

“I am a 58 year old runner. My normal daily routine is to run several miles each morning. I do not run on pavement – I run along the cattle trails of the state lands (pastureland) behind our home. Over the past year or so I have noticed increasing discomfort in my hips following my runs. Like most people, I attributed it to “getting older” and controlled it with Bromelain, a natural antiinflammatory.

Recently while at a medical conference we met with the makers of PlayAgain Hyaluronic Acid. They asked me to trial their product and report my findings.

I used PlayAgain as directed – 3 tablespoons each morning for 10 days as a loading dose. I began to notice a reduction in hip discomfort on the 3rd to 4th day, and a significant increase in joint comfort and flexibility by the 10th day.

On the 10th day I ran out of PlayAgain, and was unable to replenish my supply for a week. By the end of that week without PlayAgain I was noticing a very definite return of my hip joint symptoms of discomfort and stiffness.

I have now resumed using PlayAgain (repeating the loading dose) and I am once again able to report decreased discomfort and stiffness and increased comfort on my daily runs.”

Because PlayAgain is temperature sensitive (The HA molecule can be damaged by excessively high temperatures and by freezing) we are not stocking this product at this time. We feel that it is better for our patients and customers to obtain PlayAgain directly from the manufacturer to ensure freshness and careful handling to preserve quality.

The manufacturer suggests an initial order of 2 bottles. One bottle will be for your loading dose, the other bottle will maintain you for the rest of the first month. We suggest a first order of 3 bottles so that you don’t risk running out as Nurse Mark did.

Can Wellness Club Members get their discount on PlayAgain?

No – and there are no beter prices to be found anywhere than the prices on the manufacturers website – we have looked!

We have been able to negotiate with the PlayAgain people to obtain free shipping for our Wellness Club customers – simply click this link to go to the PlayAgain secure order page and at checkout use the code: ” FREESHIP ‘ (all caps, exactly as written, without the quotes) to save on shipping costs.

 

 

Dr. Del Nichols

Dr. Del Nichols, The Wellness Club’s most highly recommended dentist for the critical task of safe mercury amalgam removal, passed away in 2009 following a brief illness.

We at the Wellness Club miss his wisdom and compassion and extend our most heartfelt sympathies to his family. We will maintain this page because we feel that the knowledge he gave us should be an enduring legacy to his memory

We are currently seeking another holistic dentist of Dr. Nichols’ caliber, but his shoes will not be easily filled.

Dr. Myatt does not currently have a recommendation for an holistic dentist.
She is unable to assist in obtaining past dental records from Dr. Nichols’ practice as she was not associated with that practice.
Dr. Nichols sold his practice before his death. There is a new dentist practicing in that same location, now called “Rustic Mountain Dentistry”.

The Wellness Club was very fortunate to have located an holistic dentist who was highly skilled in the safe removal of mercury amalgams. In fact, Dr. Myatt felt comfortable in placing her confidence in Dr. Del to have him replace all of her mercury amalgam fillings, and she has never for a moment regretted her decision – she reports that her health improved markedly following the procedure!

Here is what Dr. Del had to say about his process of mercury amalgam removal:

We have found several unique keys that lead us to a successful Amalgam Removal and Replacement.

Before the patient comes in for the removal we have them take a special blood test to do a blood serum biocompatible dental material testing which shows the different types of dental materials their unique body composition is compatible with. Also, we can and have used other modalities for determining the proper match up of dental materials to the patient.

Most materials in the mouth have a current that is either positive (+) or negative (-) but the natural tooth does not have a charge. The unique principal we have incorporated into our program is that the currents do not come out when they [the amalgams] are removed. The standard for normal removals is to remove one quadrant (upper right, upper left, lower right, or lower left) at a time. The problem with this is the currents will reattach to the existing metals in the mouth which can create a meridian overload and an electrical short circuiting. We use an electro current analyzer to determine the currents of the filings. We then remove the highest cumulative current quadrant first, the next highest second and so forth. We will remove the amalgam filings two quadrants at a time and then replace them with the compatible material. Then we remove and replace the next two quadrants. The complete removal is accomplished in either one or two days depending on the number of filings.

During the procedure the patient also has the option of using regular Anesthesia or a non-invasive electrical anesthesia.

We also encourage the patient to use an oral or IV chelation and we work very closely with a health practitioner that can perform these.

We take many precautions to protect the patient during the removal. We use a rubber dam to keep as much debris as we can out of the patients mouth. We use special ionizers and a Swiss filtering system to pull any debris from the air. All of our patients are on oxygen during the entire procedure with gas also available. All staff in the room also have masks on for their protection.

In the picture to the right you can see how the rubber dam seals the patients teeth from the oral cavity, and prevents any mercury-containing debris from contacting the tissues of the mouth or entering the breathing passages or throat. A rubber dam protects the oral cavity The Dentis, assistant, and patient are all protected from the freshly released mercury The picture to the left shows the extent to which Dr. Dell and his assistant – and especially the patient – were protected during the mercury amalgam removal procedure. A fume extractor is removing contaminated air from the work area. Dr. Del Nichols was a Native Arizonan, born and raised in Heber, Arizona.
He graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in General Dentistry in 1973.
For two years he served his country and fellow men in the Navy as a naval dentist.
He returned to his roots and started his practice in Snowflake, Arizona, in 1977.
He was a holistic dentist and had been removing mercury for over 20 years.
He was trained in TMJ, Sleep Disorders and Functional Orthopedic Orthodontics. The Late Dr. Del Nichols

We were pleased tohave been able to have Dr. Del working with our patients. He was gentle, kind, patient, and above all, highly skilled! We miss you Dr. Del!

WEIGHT LOSS


The Skinny on Losing Weight for Good

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

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

Primary Support

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

Additional Support

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

With high cholesterol:

With low thyroid function:

With low adrenal function:

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

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

Mood Disorder

(Depression / Anxiety / Stress)

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

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

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

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

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

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

Primary Support

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

Additional Support

For anxiety:

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

For depression:

  • SAMe: 400mg, 4 times daily.

For depression in the elderly:

Main Content Column

HealthBeat Update: Comments on The Readers Digest Article: “The End of Aging”

The latest edition of Reader’s Digest talks about two “miracle” supplements that will extend life: alpha-Lipoic Acid (a-LA) and acetyl-L-Carnitine (a-LC). While the article and its “punch line” are WAY over-stated, these two nutrients DO offer significant benefit. Reader’s Digest “over-reported” the benefit (a salute to “media spin”!), but other publications may be under-reporting the value of these two nutrients. Here’s my “take” on both, and how important they may be to your supplement program.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid is a neurological antioxidant that chelates free iron from the forebrain, thereby protecting against free radical damage. It also improves mitochondrial function (mitochondria are the energy-producing units of cells). It works especially well in conjunction with CoQ10 and acetyl-L-carnitine to improve energy production. Because of its utility for preventing brain aging and preserving neurological function, plus its use in cataract prevention, diabetes, congestive heart failure and neurological diseases, it can correctly be classified as an important anti-aging/ life-extending nutrient.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine, a derivative of the amino acid L-carnitine, is a vitamin-like compound that transports fatty acids (“fuel”) into the body cells. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant in the brain. The acetyl form of L-carnitine (ALC) has been shown to be substantially more active than L-carnitine in brain cells.

ALC has been the subject of numerous studies. It bears a close similarity to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which led researchers to study its use in age-related memory changes. ALC has been proven to offer significant benefit to patients with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and also for people with memory impairment and age-onset depression.

L-carnitine and its more active form, A-LC have also been shown to be effective as part of weight (fat) loss programs, enhancing the body’s fat-burning ability. This effect proves true even when no deficiency of carnitine is present, meaning that all overweight people will benefit.

BOTTOM LINE: While these two nutrients probably won’t “end aging” as Reader’s Digest suggests, they will go a long way toward life-extending, memory enhancing, weight loss benefits.

Suggest Dose of Each: Acetyl-L-Carnitine: 500mg (1 cap) per day; Alpha Lipoic Acid: 200mg (2 Caps) per day.

Hot Flashes:

Heart attack symptoms are often different in women than in men, this “new news” reported in the medical journals this week. Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, daytime fatigue (more than can be explained from the insomnia), and anxiety may be early symptoms.

Dr. Myatt’s comment: better safe than sorry. Get your annual check-up, and report fatigue or sleep distress symptoms to your physician. If he/she ignores them, consult a cardiologist for a work-up. This is one diagnosis you don’t want to miss!!!

Ask Dr. Myatt

Q: This was forwarded to me from a friend regarding microwaving food. What do you think?

Carcinogens cause cancer. Especially breast cancer. He [the doctor] was talking about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers. This applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the combination of fat, high heat and plastics releases dioxins into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Dioxins are carcinogens and highly toxic to the cells of our bodies. (Dr. Myatt’s note: this is true) Instead, he recommends using glass, Corning Ware, or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results without the dioxins.

So such things as TV dinners, weight watchers dinners, lean cuisine dinners, instant ramen cup of noodles, and soups, etc., should be removed from the container and heated in something else. Paper isn’t bad but you don’t know what is in the paper. Just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc. He said we might remember when some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons. To add to this: saran wrap placed over foods as they are nuked, with the high heat, actually drips poisonous toxins into the food, so use paper towels instead.

A: My research convinces me that it is A.O.K. to use a microwave as long as you don’t use plastic or plastic wrap to heat things. “Nuking” actually preserves nutrients. The microwave oven is designed on a vacuum principle that prevents leakage during operations. I’m still using mine and wouldn’t give it up without a fight! Heat items in glass containers with paper towels (preferably unbleached paper) or microwave-safe covers as a top.

Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy

Bio-identical (Natural) Hormone Replacement Therapy
and Other Natural Hormone-Balancing Therapies

Which One is Right for You?

Index:

Are Your Symptoms Cause by Low or Imbalanced Hormones?

What is Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (bHRT)?

What are the advantages of bHRT?

Delivery System: Oral Versus Transdermal Hormones

How Best to Address Your Menopausal Symptoms and Concerns?

Dr. Myatt’s “Hormone Balance” Programs: Which One is Right for You?

Are Your Symptoms Caused by Low or Imbalanced Hormones?

Women and men both go through “the climacteric,” a period in mid-life when sex hormone production declines.

In women, this change is called “menopause.” In men, the change is often referred to as “andropause.” Many symptoms of the climacteric are similar in men and women.

In women, peri-menopause (“around the time of menopause”) symptoms can include mood swings, weight gain, fatigue, hot flashes, breast tenderness, vaginal dryness, decreased libido (sex drive), urinary leakage or urgency and sleep difficulties. Menstrual periods may becomes less frequent, irregular and farther apart OR they can become heavier and more frequent. Peri-menopause usually begins in a woman’s 40’s but can start as early as the 30’s or as late as the 50’s.

Menopause symptoms in women are similar to peri-menopause symptoms except that menstrual periods cease. Headaches, heart palpitations, cognitive decline and difficulty sleeping may also occur. Bone mineral loss is often accelerated during this time, leading to osteoporosis.

Andropause symptoms in men can include include night sweats, low libido (sex drive), weight gain, depression, anxiety, hot flashes, gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts), fatigue, irritability, and weight gain. Other male climacteric symptoms include erectile dysfunction, loss of stamina and lean muscle mass, cognitive decline and decreased bone mineral density. Men with lower testosterone have a higher risk of coronary artery disease. (1-4)

The change in men is more gradual than in women and symptoms are often attributed to “natural aging” instead of hormone decline.

What is Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (bHRT)?

Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (bHRT) is a way to resolve symptoms and/or restore sex hormones to more youthful levels using hormones that are identical to those produced by the human body. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (bHRT) differs from convention HRT (cHRT) which uses horse estrogens (Premarin = Pregnant Mares Urine), synthetic and semi-synthetic hormones that are different from human hormones.

Proponents of bHRT believe that many of the unwanted side effects of conventional HRT are due to the “foreignness” of the molecules, not to hormone replacement therapy itself. This may make bHRT a safer form of hormone replacement therapy. (5-10)

How is Bio-Identical HRT Different from Conventional HRT?

Bio-identical hormone replacement is different from conventional HRT in the following ways.

  1. “Identical to human” hormones are used in bHRT. Conventional HRT typically uses horse hormones and synthetic and semi-synthetic hormones. These hormones are not the same molecules as those produced by the human body.It should be noted that there are bio-identical FDA approved hormones available by prescription. Not all “bio-identical” hormones need to be “compounded,” or made up individually by a compounding pharmacist.
  2. Based on Testing. bHRT is prescribed based on individual hormone test results. Conventional HRT does not use testing but bases treatment on improvement of symptoms.
  3. “Pulsed dosing” is often used in bHRT to duplicate the natural rhythm of hormone production and release. Some studies have shown this pattern of use to be safer and just as effective as continuous HRT. (11-12) Conventional HRT typically uses continuous doses of hormones. Continuous doses are associated with higher risk of breast cancer in some studies. (13)

What are the advantages of bHRT?

Is bHRT Safer than conventional HRT?

Conventional hormone replacement therapy, especially in women, is associated with a number of increased health risks including heart disease, stroke, breast cancer, deep vein thrombosis, gallbladder disease and acid reflux. (14-20) Conventional HRT decreases the risk of osteoporosis and can alleviate some symptoms of menopause including hot flashes and vaginal dryness (21-22) but many experts do not believe these improvements justify the increased risks.

Proponents of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy believe that bHRT is safer than conventional hormone therapy and some studies have shown this. (5-10) However, the number of studies done with bHRT is small compared to the studies done with conventional HRT. Large-scale studies of safety and efficacy of bHRT are lacking.

In spite of a small number of studies confirming safety and efficacy, the case for bio-identical hormones also makes sense in theory. Consider these facts:

Conventional hormone replacement therapy typically employs estrogens from pregnant mare’s urine. Horse hormones are significantly different than human hormones. Conventional hormone replacement also typically uses synthetic progesterone. The difference in synthetic and bio-identical progesterone is  significant. It is therefore believed that most if not all of the negative side effects of conventional hormone replacement is due to their “foreign to humans” molecular structure, not to hormone replacement itself. Some studies on bio-identical versus non-bio-identical progesterone confirm that there is a different effect in humans with natural progesterone appearing to have less risk of associated cancers. (5-10)

Further, conventional hormone replacement is almost always prescribed as a “one-size-fits-all” recommendation without the use of any laboratory testing to verify hormone levels. Practitioners of bio-identical hormone replacement typically start with blood, saliva or urine hormone testing and customize hormone prescriptions based on an individual’s unique requirements. Testing can help guide the prescription and prevent levels of hormones from being excessive.

Finally, risks associated with hormone therapy can be monitored, but this is rarely if ever done in conventional hormone prescribing. However, risks such as total hormone levels, ratios of hormones to each other and hormone metabolites can be potent predictors of heart disease and cancer risks. Even without hormone replacement therapy, these risk factors may be worth monitoring in all middle-aged men and women.

To answer the question of safety, there are theoretical reasons to believe that bio-identical HRT should be safer than conventional HRTand some actual studies show better safety.

Is bHRT Effective?

Studies have verified the effectiveness of bHRT for relieving many of the symptoms of menopause. (7-9, 23-24)

My personal clinical experience over the past 23 years is that bHRT can achieve every positive effect that conventional HRT achieves with less risk of negative side effects. Because I monitor risk factors, I have also seen reductions in cardiac and cancer risk markers and improvements in bone mineral density.

Is bHRT Proven?

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. (7-9, 23-28)

Anti-Aging Claims for bHRT

Proponents of bHRT claim that keeping hormones at “youthful” levels can extend life expectancy and help delay the effects of aging. These claims have been popularized by public figures like Suzanne Somers in her book “The Sexy Years.” In spite of these claims, there is no proof that continued use of sex hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone in women, have-extending properties. There IS evidence that DHEA in both men and women (25-28) and testosterone in men (29-33) may have a positive influence on health, longevity and hormone balance.

While claims of living better and longer with bHRT are numerous, proof is lacking. This leaves bHRT and its anti-aging effects in the realm of theory at this point.

Delivery System: Oral Versus Transdermal Hormones

In addition to the “form” (natural or synthetic) of hormone, the method of administration has been shown to make a significant difference in safety and efficacy.

Orally administered hormones, especially estrogens, can increase risk of blood clots and deep vein thrombosis, increase hs-CRP (a marker of inflammation), decrease free testosterone and thyroid hormone and increase cortisol.(34) Oral estrogen is also associated with an increased risk of gallbladder disease and acid reflux. (15,18)

Many hormones used transdermally — applied to the skin or mucous membranes — do not appear to have these unwanted effects. (35) Therefore, when considering bHRT, the form that it is used in is also of importance.

How Best to Address Your Menopausal Symptoms and Concerns?

Symptoms of peri-menopause and menopause in women and andropause in men are a sign from the body that something is “off kilter.” For example, hot flashes in women correspond to an increase in oxidative stress and decreased nitric oxide levels (NO), both risk factors for cardiovascular disease. (36-37)

These symptoms and resulting negative physical changes are not an inevitable part of aging and should not be ignored. They can be addressed and improved through a variety of means, including but not limited to bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

Diet changes, exercise and personal health practices can all help to improve symptoms of menopause and andropause. (38-39) There are nutritional and herbal supplements are proven to help correct menopause and andropause symptoms. (40-42)  Bioidentical hormone replacement is one way to address declining hormone levels, but it is not the only way.

The decision to use bHRT is a personal one that should be made in conjunction with an holistic physician. Your degree of symptoms, personal thoughts about bHRT, willingness to make other lifestyle changes and use nutritional and herbal supplements should all factor into the “decision equation.” Here are some additional factors to consider when making this decision.

Possible “Pro’s” of bHRT

  1. Faster. Herbs and other factors can help balance hormones, but the effects of bHRT might be more dramatic and faster. (NOTE: I cannot find scientific studies to support this; it is my clinical observation — Dr. Myatt)
  2. Easier. Taking an Rx. may be easier than making lifestyle changes, although any good holistic physician should recommend positive lifestyle changes as part of an overall health program.
  3. Safer. Some studies point to the improved safety of bHRT over conventional HRT. (14-20)
  4. Better hormone balance. Some hormones such as DHEA and testosterone have independent health benefits. (25-33, 43) These hormones are typically not used in conventional HRT but may be prescribed by a physician who uses bHRT.

Possible “Cons” of bHRT

  1. Cost. bHRT is not necessarily expensive and can be as little as $30/month depending on what hormones are needed. However, an Rx. will represent an ongoing expense. Most practitioners prescribing bHRT require initial hormone testing (to customize your Rx.) and follow-up testing to ensure that your hormones are at optimal (safe and effective) levels. Testing plus the Rx. itself will be an ongoing expense.
  2. Safety. Although bHRT appears safer than conventional HRT, there is some evidence that no type of hormone replacement in women has been proven to be “protective” or safer than natural menopause.

Alternatives to bHRT

Hormone Testing: Saliva vs. Blood vs. Urine

Conventional hormone replacement does not use testing. The recommended “end point” (goal of treatment) is alleviation of symptoms. Therefore, when a woman has stopped having hot flashes, for example, the dose is considered to be correct.

Most bHRT practitioners begin treatment with some form of hormone testing, using either saliva, blood or urine to evaluate hormone levels. Although there are many claims about the superiority of one form of testing over another, scientific studies are lacking.

Saliva testing is the least accurate measure of sex hormones. Numerous studies have failed to find a reliable correlation between saliva hormone levels and physiologic (body) hormone levels with the exception of cortisol measurement. (17,44-54)

Blood testing does not reveal the hourly variation and 24-hour cyclical nature of hormone release but it has been better studied. For this reason, blood testing is probably the second-best method of hormone testing.

Twenty-four hour urine testing may be the preferred method of hormone testing. In addition to evaluating hormone output including the 24-hour variation (a “video” instead of a “snapshot,”), urine testing also looks at biochemical intermediates which are independent indicators of hormone levels and hormone metabolism. Some intermediates, such as the 2:16alpha-hydroxyestrone ratio, may be potent predictors of increased risk for hormone-related cancers. (55-56) Fortunately, once known, these risks can be modified.

Dr. Myatt’s Hormone Balance Programs:
Which One is Right for You?

All bHRT programs in both men and women begin with a Brief Telephone Consultation. Together, we determine which program is right for you.

Depending on your age, symptoms, beliefs and what you hope to achieve, we work together to design and implement a complete program to optimize both hormone balance and overall health.

For some men and women, this will include the use of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, as determined by laboratory testing (24-hour urine). The form may differ depending on which hormones are needed, but usually include both transdermal and oral hormone replacements.

Hormone balance and relief of symptoms can often be achieved without the use of hormone replacement therapy. The decision to use hormones should not be taken lightly and should be made in consultation with a physician who is well-versed in both bHRT and non-hormonal methods of achieving hormone balance.

Which Hormone-Balancing Program is Right for You ?

 The Bronze program is for:

• Peri-menopausal women
• Post-menopausal women
• Men over 35

For women and men desiring better hormone balance  without  the use of
bio-identical hormone replacement.

You will receive a Personalized Health Report and Phone Follow-Up of 60 mins

The Silver program is for:

• Peri-menopausal women
• Post-menopausal women
• Men over 35

For women and men desiring better hormone balance AND bone mineral density protection without using
bio-identical hormone replacement.

You will receive a Personalized Health Report and Phone Follow-Up of 120 mins

The Gold program is for:

• Peri-menopausal women
• Post-menopausal women
• Men over 35

For women and men desiring sex hormone optimization and breast/prostate cancer risk reduction using bHRT.

You will receive a Personalized Health Report and Phone Follow-Up of 360 mins

The Platinum program is for:

• Peri-menopausal women
• Post-menopausal women
• Men over 35

For women and men desiring anti-aging, full-scope endocrine balancing (including sex, thyroid and adrenal hormones) and
breast /prostate cancer risk reduction using bHRT.

You will receive a Personalized Health Report and unlimited Phone Follow-Up

 * saliva hormone testing not available in New York state.

References

1.) Corona G, Rastrelli G, Monami M, Guay A, Buvat J, Sforza A, Forti G, Mannucci E, Maggi M.
Hypogonadism as a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality in men: a meta-analytic study.
Eur J Endocrinol. 2011 Nov;165(5):687-701. Epub 2011 Aug 18.

2.) Corona G, et al “Low testosterone is associated with an increased risk of MACE lethality in subjects with erectile dysfunction” ECE 2010; Poster 149.

3.) Ohlsson C, Barrett-Connor E, Bhasin S, Orwoll E, Labrie F, Karlsson MK, Ljunggren O, Vandenput L, Mellström D, Tivesten A.High Serum Testosterone Is Associated With Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Elderly Men, J Am Coll Cardiol, 2011; 58:1674-1681

4.) Tivesten A, Mellström D, Jutberger H, Fagerberg B, Lernfelt B, Orwoll E, Karlsson MK, Ljunggren O, Ohlsson C. Low serum testosterone and high serum estradiol associate with lower extremity peripheral arterial disease in elderly men. The MrOS Study in Sweden. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2007 Sep 11;50(11):1070-6. Epub 2007 Aug 24.

5.) Fournier A, Berrino F, Clavel-Chapelon F. Unequal risks for breast cancer associated with different hormone replacement therapies: results from the E3N cohort study. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2008 Jan;107(1):103-11. Epub 2007 Feb 27.

6.) Fournier A, Berrino F, Riboli E, Avenel V, Clavel-Chapelon F. Breast cancer risk in relation to different types of hormone replacement therapy in the E3N-EPIC cohort. Int J Cancer. 2005 Apr 10;114(3):448-54.

7.) Holtorf K. The bioidentical hormone debate: are bioidentical hormones (estradiol, estriol, and progesterone) safer or more efficacious than commonly used synthetic versions in hormone replacement therapy? Postgrad Med. 2009 Jan;121(1):73-85.

8.) Mahmud K. Natural hormone therapy for menopause. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2010 Feb;26(2):81-5.

9.) Moskowitz D. A comprehensive review of the safety and efficacy of bioidentical hormones for the management of menopause and related health risks. Altern Med Rev. 2006 Sep;11(3):208-23.

10.) Schmidt JW, Wollner D, Curcio J, Riedlinger J, Kim LS. Hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women: Past problems and future possibilities. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2006 Oct;22(10):564-77.

11.) Ichikawa A, Sumino H, Ogawa T, Ichikawa S, Nitta K. Effects of long-term transdermal hormone replacement therapy on the renin-angiotensin- aldosterone system, plasma bradykinin levels and blood pressure in normotensive postmenopausal women. Geriatr Gerontol Int. 2008 Dec;8(4):259-64.

12.) Vilodre LC, Osório Wender MC, Sisson de Castro JA, dos Reis FM, Ruschel S, Magalhães JA,  Spritzer PM. Endometrial response to a cyclic regimen of percutaneous 17beta-estradiol and  low-dose vaginal micronized progesterone in women with mild-to-moderate hypertension.
Gynecol Endocrinol. 2003 Aug;17(4):323-8.

13.) Beral V, Bull D, Reeves G; Million Women Study Collaborators. Endometrial cancer and  hormone-replacement therapy in the Million Women Study. Lancet. 2005 Apr 30-May  6;365(9470):1543-51.

14.) Canonico M, Fournier A, Carcaillon L, et al. Postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of idiopathic venous thromboembolism: results from the E3N cohort study. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2010;30(2):340-345.

15.) Cirillo DJ, Wallace RB, Rodabough RJ, et al. Effect of estrogen therapy on gallbladder disease. JAMA. 2005;293(3):330-339.

16.)  Eilertsen AL, Høibraaten E, Os I, Andersen TO, Sandvik L, Sandset PM. The effects of oral and transdermal hormone replacement therapy on C-reactive protein levels and other inflammatory markers in women with high risk of thrombosis. Maturitas. 2005;52(2):111-118.

17.)  Files JA, Ko MG, Pruthi S. Bioidentical Hormone Therapy.Mayo Clin Proc. 2011 July; 86(7): 673–680.

18.)  Jacobson BC, Moy B, Colditz GA, Fuchs CS. Postmenopausal hormone use and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Arch Intern Med. 2008;168(16):1798-1804.

19.) Jernström H, Bendahl PO, Lidfeldt J, Nerbrand C, Agardh CD, Samsioe G. A prospective study of different types of hormone replacement therapy use and the risk of subsequent breast cancer: the women’s health in the Lund area (WHILA) study (Sweden). Cancer Causes Control. 2003 Sep;14(7):673-80.

20.)  [No authors listed] Breast cancer and hormone replacement therapy: collaborative reanalysis of data from 51 epidemiological studies of 52,705 women with breast cancer and 108,411 women without breast cancer. Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer. Lancet. 1997 Oct 11;350(9084):1047-59.

21.) de Villiers TJ, Stevenson JC. The WHI: the effect of hormone replacement therapy on fracture prevention. Climacteric. 2012 Jun;15(3):263-6.

22.) Nelson HD, Humphrey LL, Nygren P, Teutsch SM, Allan JD. Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy: scientific review. JAMA. 2002 Aug 21;288(7):872-81.

23.)  Cramer EH, Jones P, Keenan NL, Thompson BL. Is naturopathy as effective as conventional therapy for treatment of menopausal symptoms? J Altern Complement Med. 2003 Aug;9(4):529-38.

24.)  Ruiz AD, Daniels KR, Barner JC, Carson JJ, Frei CR. Effectiveness of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy: an observational cohort study. BMC Womens Health. 2011 Jun 8;11:27.

25.) Genazzani AR, Pluchino N, Begliuomini S, Stomati M, Bernardi F, Pieri M, Casarosa E, Palumbo M, Genazzani AD, Luisi M. Long-term low-dose oral administration of dehydroepiandrosterone modulates adrenal response to adrenocorticotropic hormone in early and late postmenopausal women. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2006 Nov;22(11):627-35.

26.) Labrie F. DHEA, important source of sex steroids in men and even more in women.
Prog Brain Res. 2010;182:97-148.

27.) Pluchino N, Ninni F, Stomati M, Freschi L, Casarosa E, Valentino V, Luisi S, Genazzani AD, Potì E, Genazzani AR. One-year therapy with 10mg/day DHEA alone or in combination with HRT in postmenopausal women: effects on hormonal milieu. Maturitas. 2008 Apr 20;59(4):293-303. Epub 2008 Apr 3.

28.) Stomati M, Monteleone P, Casarosa E, Quirici B, Puccetti S, Bernardi F, Genazzani AD, Rovati L, Luisi M, Genazzani AR. Six-month oral dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation in early and late postmenopause. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2000 Oct;14(5):342-63.

29.) Aaronson AJ, Morrissey RP, Nguyen CT, Willix R, Schwarz ER. Update on the safety of  testosterone therapy in cardiac disease. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2011 Sep;10(5):697-704. Epub 2011  Mar 22.

30.) De Maddalena C, Vodo S, Petroni A, Aloisi AM. Impact of testosterone on body fat composition. J Cell Physiol. 2012 Apr 11. doi: 10.1002/jcp.24096. [Epub ahead of print]

31.) Toma M, McAlister FA, Coglianese EE, Vidi V, Vasaiwala S, Bakal JA, Armstrong PW, Ezekowitz  JA. Testosterone supplementation in heart failure: a meta-analysis. Circ Heart Fail. 2012 May

32.) Vermeulen A. Ageing, hormones, body composition, metabolic effects. World J Urol. 2002 May;20(1):23-7.

33.) Vermeulen A, Goemaere S, Kaufman JM. Testosterone, body composition and aging. J Endocrinol Invest. 1999;22(5 Suppl):110-6. 1;5(3):315-21. Epub 2012 Apr 17.

34.)  Shifren JL, Desindes S, McIlwain M, Doros G, Mazer NA. A randomized, open-label, crossover study comparing the effects of oral versus transdermal estrogen therapy on serum androgens, thyroid hormones, and adrenal hormones in naturally menopausal women. Menopause. 2007 Nov-Dec;14(6):985-94.

35.)  L’hermite M, Simoncini T, Fuller S, Genazzani AR. Could transdermal estradiol + progesterone be a safer postmenopausal HRT? A review. Maturitas. 2008 Jul-Aug;60(3-4):185-201. Epub 2008 Sep 5.

36.) Leal M, Díaz J, Serrano E, Abellán J, Carbonell LF. Hormone replacement therapy for oxidative stress in postmenopausal women with hot flushes. Obstet Gynecol. 2000 Jun;95(6 Pt 1):804-9.

37.) Leal Hernández M, Abellán Alemán J, Carbonell Meseguer LF, Díaz Fernández J, García Sánchez FA, Martínez Selva JM. Influence of the presence of hot flashes during menopause on the metabolism of nitric oxide. Effects of hormonal replacement treatment]. Med Clin (Barc). 2000 Jan 22;114(2):41-5.

38.) North American Menopause Society. Treatment of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2004 Jan-Feb;11(1):11-33.

39.) McKee J, Warber SL. Integrative therapies for menopause. South Med J. 2005 Mar;98(3):319-26.

40.) Low Dog T. Menopause: a review of botanical dietary supplements. Am J Med. 2005 Dec 19;118 Suppl 12B:98-108.

41.) Kronenberg F, Fugh-Berman A. Complementary and alternative medicine for menopausal symptoms: a review of randomized, controlled trials. Ann Intern Med. 2002 Nov 19;137(10):805-13.

42.) Geller SE, Studee L.Botanical and dietary supplements for menopausal symptoms: what works, what does not. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2005 Sep;14(7):634-49.

43.) Øverlie I, Moen MH, Holte A, Finset A. Androgens and estrogens in relation to hot flushes during the menopausal transition. Maturitas. 2002 Jan 30;41(1):69-77.

44.) Gröschl M. Current status of salivary hormone analysis. Clin Chem. 2008 Nov;54(11):1759-69. Epub 2008 Aug 29.

45.) Hagen J, Gott N, Miller DR. Reliability of saliva hormone tests. J Am Pharm Assoc . 2003 Nov-Dec;43(6):724-6.

46.) Davison S. Salivary testing opens a Pandora’s box of issues surrounding accurate measurement of testosterone in women. Menopause. 2009;16:630-631.

47.) Flyckt RL, Liu J, Frasure H, Wekselman K, et al. Comparison of salivary versus serum testosterone levels in postmenopausal women receiving transdermal testosterone supplementation versus placebo. Menopause. 2009 Jul-Aug;16(4):680-8.

48.) Granger DA, Shirtcliff EA, Booth A, et al. The “trouble” with salivary testosterone. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2004 Nov;29(10):1229-40.

49.) Mörelius E, Nelson N, Theodorsson E. Saliva collection using cotton buds with wooden sticks: a note of caution. Scand J Clin Lab Invest. 2006;66(1):15-8.

50.)  6.Lewis JG. Steroid analysis in saliva: an overview. Clin Biochem Rev. 2006 Aug;27(3):139-46.

51.) Stanczyk FZ, Paulson RJ, Roy S. Percutaneous administration of progesterone: blood levels and endometrial protection. Menopause. 2005 Mar;12(2):232-7.

52.) Lewis JG, McGill H, Patton VM, et al. Caution on the use of saliva measurements to monitor absorption of progesterone from transdermal creams in postmenopausal women. Maturitas. 2002 Jan 30;41(1):1-6.

53.) Wren BG, McFarland K, Edwards L, et al. Effect of sequential transdermal progesterone cream on endometrium, bleeding pattern, and plasma progesterone and salivary progesterone levels in postmenopausal women. Climacteric. 2000 Sep;3(3):155-60.

54.) Wood P. Salivary steroid assays – research or routine? . Ann Clin Biochem. 2009 May;46(Pt 3):183-96. Epub 2009 Jan 28.

55.) Kabat GC, Chang CJ, Sparano JA, Sepkovie DW, Hu XP, Khalil A, Rosenblatt R, Bradlow HL.Urinary estrogen metabolites and breast cancer: a case-control study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 1997 Jul;6(7):505-9.

56.) Muti P, Bradlow HL, Micheli A, Krogh V, Freudenheim JL, Schünemann HJ, Stanulla M, Yang J, Sepkovic DW, Trevisan M, Berrino F. Estrogen metabolism and risk of breast cancer: a prospective study of the 2:16alpha-hydroxyestrone ratio in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Epidemiology. 2000 Nov;11(6):635-40.

Gallbladder “Attacks” and Gallstones

How to End the Pain and Save Your Gallbladder

Nearly half a million gallbladder surgeries — removal, or cholecystectomy to be precise — are performed each year in the US. Many of the people who give up their gallbladders to such surgery appear to be fine, and the pain of their gallbladder attacks are over. Oddly enough, for many others, gallbladder “attacks” continue even in the absence of a gallbladder – in fact, one authoritative source indicates that Post Cholecystectomy Syndrome (PCS) affects at least 10 to 15% of people who have had their gallbladders removed!

Are the people who have given up their gallbladders really “fine”? And why do others continue to have pain in spite of removal of their gallbladder?

Conventional medical doctors make no attempt to help people “save” their gallbladders when stomach or other symptoms is believed due to gallbladder attacks. In fact, many gallbladders are removed even when scans do not show anything wrong with the gallbladder. Because there is no attempt to preserve this organ in conventional medicine, and because many people feel better after surgical removal of their GB, people mistakenly believe that the gallbladder isn’t important and that living without it makes no difference. Unfortunately, this viewpoint is incorrect and can be downright unhealthy.

Contrary to common belief, the gallbladder isn’t just a “vestigial organ” with little or no importance. One of the primary jobs of the gallbladder is to control the flow of bile which in turn is needed to absorb fats, oils and fat-soluble nutrients. Once the gallbladder is removed, these functions cannot happen normally, at least not without additional “outside help” from supplementation.

Although steps can be taken to prevent nutrient deficiencies if you have already had your gallbladder removed, let’s talk about another important question. How can you get rid of gallbladder “attacks” and keep your gallbladder in the first place? After all, “prevention” is always easier than cure.

The Real Cause of Gallbladder Pain

Gallbladder pain is usually blamed on gallstones, although stones are rarely the cause of intermittent GB discomfort.

Stones of a particular size that get stuck in the bile duct are indeed incredibly painful. If they are not passed quickly, gangrene of the duct and gallbladder can set in with life-threatening complications. This is the only true “surgical emergency” of gallbladder stones.

However, most stones are too large to obstruct the gall duct. Other people have “sand,” which is fine particulate that is too small to obstruct the gall duct. So where does the pain come from?

The real cause — and cure — of gallbladder pain was discovered back in 1968 by a physician named James C. Breneman. Dr. Breneman was chairman of the Food Allergy Committee of the American College of Allergists, or ACA (now called the American College of Allergy and Immunology, or ACAI). Dr. Breneman discovered that attacks of gallbladder pain are caused by food allergies.

In 1968, he put 69 people who suffered from recurrent gallbladder attacks on an elimination diet to determine their food allergies. Six of the subjects already had their gallbladders removed but were still having gallbladder “attacks,” a phenomenon known as “post-cholecystectomy syndrome.” Dr. Breneman found that all 69 people — 100 percent! — were totally symptom-free of gallbladder pain when they avoided their individual food sensitivities, and all 69 had a recurrence of their symptoms when they ate the foods they reintroduced the foods they were allergic to back into their diets.

The most common allergenic foods were found to be eggs (92.8%), pork (63.8%), onions (52.2%), chicken and turkey (34.8%), milk (24.6%), coffee (21.7% ), and oranges (18.8%). Corn, beans, nuts, apples, tomatoes, peas, cabbage, spices, peanuts, fish, and rye accounted for between 1 to 14.5% of gallbladder attacks. 14 of the 69 study participants (over 20 percent) also had gallbladder attacks caused by medications.

How Allergies Cause Gallbladder Attacks Illustration of the biliary system, showing the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and the duodenum with the appendant ducts.

The body’s reaction to allergic substances is to cause swelling (remember how your nose swells if you have seasonal allergies?). When food and medication allergies cause swelling of the gallbladder ducts, bile flow is obstructed. The symptoms of allergy-caused obstruction are the same as a stone being stuck in the duct. (Hence the blame being laid on a “stone” when in fact, swelling of the tissue caused by a food or medicine reaction is the real culprit).

The Cure for Gallbladder Pain

The real treatment for most GB pain isn’t to remove this important organ, but to perform an elimination / challenge diet or food allergy testing and find the offending foods and medications.

The Dangers of Gallbladder Removal

What Can Happen Without a Gallbladder?

Vitamin A Deficiency symptoms include changes in vision (night blindness, dry eyes, macular degeneration), decreased immunity and skin diseases.

Vitamin D Deficiency symptoms include cancer, osteoporosis, dental disease and decreased immune function.

Vitamin K Deficiencies are associated with osteoporosis and atherosclerosis

Vitamin E Deficiency is associated with cancer, heart disease, neurological diseases and a long list of other health problems.

Essential Fatty Acids regulate everything from cardiac function to immunity and inflammation.

The gallbladder stores and then releases bile
in response to fats contained in a meal. Bile is necessary to assist the digestion of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

When the gallbladder is removed, vitamins A, E, D, K, and essential fatty acids are not absorbed properly. Unfortunately, the symptoms of declining fat-soluble vitamins and essential fats come on slowly and most often, unnoticeably. Health problems can be many and varied, associated with a deficiency of any or all of these fat-soluble vitamins.

Who would guess that removal of the gallbladder, especially without replacement of bile salts (which is NEVER suggested in conventional medicine), could contribute to the premature development of so many and varied health problems, all related to fat soluble nutrient assimilation?

Other Nutrients for Gallbladder Health

Low stomach acid can cause or contribute to the development of gallstones. Correcting a stomach acid deficiency is of primary importance when addressing gallbladder health.

Here is more information about the many symptoms and diseases associated with low stomach acid.

And here is a simple self-test kit to help you determine if you need supplemental betaine hydrochloride:

Magnesium deficiency is extremely common among people who suffer from gallbladder pain and stones (even when the stones are not the actual cause of the pain). And if magnesium deficiency relates to the development of stones, the news gets even worse for those who don’t supplement: 60% of post-GB removal patients suffer from magnesium deficiency and 40% from calcium/magnesium deficiency.

A high-quality daily multiple vitamin/mineral supplement such as Maxi Multi contains a full daily recommended dose of magnesium and calcium. For those taking “one-per day” multiples or no extra supplementation at all, additional magnesium supplementation is highly recommended.

References

  1. Jensen, Steen W.  “Postcholecystectomy Syndrome” Jan 16, 2008 http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/192761-overview
  2. “Fast Stats: Inpatient Surgery, 2002,” U.S. Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), accessed 8/25/04
  3. Breneman JC “Allergy Elimination as the Most Effective Gallbladder Diet.” Annals of Allergy 1968; 26; 83-89
  4. Breneman, James C. Basics of Food Allergy. Springfield (IL): CC Thomas (pub), 1978.
  5. Tsai CJ, Leitzmann MF, Willett WC, Giovannucci EL. Long-term effect of magnesium consumption on the risk of symptomatic gallstone disease among men. Am J Gastroenterol. 2008 Feb;103(2):375-82. Epub 2007 Dec 12.
  6. Szántay J, Varga D, Porr PJ. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome and magnesium deficit.Acta Physiol Hung. 1992;80(1-4):391-8.

HEART DISEASE


(Arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, CHF)

Heart disease is largely caused by diet, lifestyle, and nutrient imbalances. Certain viruses and inflammation can also damage the heart. Fortunately, heart disease is often reversible, even if you have already had surgery and are on medications. Heart disease is serious. It is best to work with an holistic physician who can help you discover the cause of the problem and make specific recommendations for correction. Never stop taking heart medication without the guidance of a physician!

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Follow the Ten Rules of Good Health
  • Practice stress reduction techniques and anger management. People with “hot tempers” are at higher risk for cardiac events.
  • Do NOT SMOKE! Smoking is one of the most damaging habits to the heart and cardiovascular system.
  • Maintain a normal body weight.
  • Exercise regularly. Be sure to consult your doctor if you are over 30, highly deconditioned, or have already-established heart disease. He/she can tell you how much exercise is safe for you to begin with.

PRIMARY SUPPORT

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. This daily “multiple” contains high potency antioxidants. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidants (ACES), magnesium, B complex vitamins, 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.
  • Max EPA (fish oil): 1-2 caps, 3 times per day with meals to prevent or reverse inflammation. Take higher doses as directed if your hs-CRP tests are elevated. Flax oil is also beneficial but requires a biochemical conversion in the body, which is deficient in many people, so fish oil is more certain.
  • 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).
  • Magnesium: 2 taps, 3 times per day with meals (Target dose: 500-1500mg per day. Maxi Multi contains 500mg).
  • Grape Seed Extract: 1 cap, 3 times per day with meals. (Target dose: 150-300mg daily). Proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract act as a potent antioxidants and ACE inhibitors. They also help prevent platelet aggregation (blood cells sticking together) and protect blood vessels from damage.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

For High Blood Pressure

For Atherosclerosis

For Arrhythmia

  • Low dose aspirin (81mg): 1 tab per day.
  • L-carnitine: 500-1,000mg, 3 times per day with meals.

For Congestive Heart Failure

CoQ10 and it’s use in CHF (Congestive Heart Failure):

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19966871
“… Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is essential for electron transport within the mitochondria and hence for ATP generation and cellular energy production. We recently demonstrated that plasma levels of CoQ10 are an independent predictor of survival in a cohort of 236 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) followed for a median of 2.69 years. This is consistent with previous studies which have shown myocardial CoQ10 depletion in CHF, and correlated with the severity of the underlying disorder. Several intervention studies have been undertaken with CoQ10 in CHF, including randomized controlled trials with mostly positive outcomes in relation to improvement in plasma levels of CoQ10. A meta-analysis showed that CoQ10 resulted in an improvement in ejection fraction of 3.7% (95%CI 1.59-5.77) and the mean increase in cardiac output was 0.28 L/minute (95%CI 0.03-0.53). In a subgroup analysis, studies with patients not taking ACE inhibitors found a 6.7% increase in ejection fraction. The ongoing Q-SYMBIO trial will address whether CoQ10 supplementation improves survival in CHF patients. CoQ10 depletion may also be a contributory factor for why statin intervention has not improved outcomes in CHF. There is an emerging evidence base in support of CoQ10 as an adjunctive therapy in CHF.”

http://faculty.washington.edu/ely/coenzq10.html
“…The majority of the clinical studies concerned the treatment of heart disease and were remarkably consistent in their conclusions: that treatment with CoQ10 significantly improved heart muscle function while producing no adverse effects or drug interactions. …”

Dr. Myatt’s Conclusion:
CoQ10 is beneficial for nearly every type of Heart Disease (angina, arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction (1-18)

Maxi Marine O3 (Fish Oil) and it’s use in CHF (Congestive Heart Failure):

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8733172
“…Fish oil may decrease cardiac afterload by an antivasopressor action and by reducing blood viscosity, may reduce arrhythmic risk despite supporting the heart’s beta-adrenergic responsiveness, may decrease fibrotic cardiac remodeling by impeding the action of angiotensin II and, in patients with coronary disease, may reduce the risk of atherothrombotic ischemic complications. Since the measures recommended here are nutritional and carry little if any toxic risk, there is no reason why their joint application should not be studied as a comprehensive nutritional therapy for congestive heart failure. …”

References

1.) Adarsh K, Kaur H, Mohan V. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in isolated diastolic heart failure in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Biofactors. 2008;32(1-4):145-9.
2.) Berman M, Erman A, Ben-Gal T, Dvir D, Georghiou GP, Stamler A, Vered Y, Vidne BA, Aravot D. Coenzyme Q10 in patients with end-stage heart failure awaiting cardiac transplantation: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Clin Cardiol. 2004 May;27(5):295-9.
3.) Hodgson JM, Watts GF, Playford DA, Burke V, Croft KD. Coenzyme Q10 improves blood pressure and glycaemic control: a controlled trial in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002 Nov;56(11):1137-42.
4.) Kumar A, Kaur H, Devi P, Mohan V. Role of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in Cardiac disease, Hypertension and Meniere- like syndrome. Pharmacol Ther. 2009 Jul 25. [Epub ahead of print]
5.) Langsjoen PH, Folkers K, Lyson K, Muratsu K, Lyson T, Langsjoen P. Pronounced increase of survival of patients with cardiomyopathy when treated with coenzyme Q10 and conventional therapy. Int J Tissue React. 1990;12(3):163-8.
6.) Langsjoen PH, Folkers K, Lyson K, Muratsu K, Lyson T, Langsjoen P. Effective and safe therapy with coenzyme Q10 for cardiomyopathy. Klin Wochenschr. 1988 Jul 1;66(13):583-90.
7.) Langsjoen P, Langsjoen A, Willis R, and Folkers K. The Aging Heart: Reversal of Diastolic Dysfunction Through the Use of Oral CoQ10 in the Elderly. Anti-Aging Medical Therapeutics. Klatz RM and Goldman R (eds.). Health Quest Publications. 1997;113-120.
8.) Langsjoen PH, Langsjoen A, Willis R, Folkers K. Treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with coenzyme Q10. Mol Aspects Med. 1997;18(S):s145-s151.
9.) Langsjoen PH, Vadhanavikit S, Folkers K. Response of patients in classes III and IV of cardiomyopathy to therapy in a blind and crossover trial with coenzyme Q10. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1985 Jun;82(12):4240-4.
10.) Mabuchi H, Higashikata T, Kawashiri M, Katsuda S, Mizuno M, Nohara A, Inazu A, Koizumi J, Kobayashi J. Reduction of serum ubiquinol-10 and ubiquinone-10 levels by atorvastatin in hypercholesterolemic patients. Journal of Atheroscler Thromb. 2005;12(2):111-9.
11.) Molyneux SL, Florkowski CM, George PM, Pilbrow AP, Frampton CM, Lever M, Richards AM. Coenzyme Q10: an independent predictor of mortality in chronic heart failure. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2008 Oct 28;52(18):1435-41.
12.) Mortensen SA. Overview on coenzyme Q10 as adjunctive therapy in chronic heart failure. Rationale, design and end-points of “Q-symbio”–a multinational trial. Biofactors. 2003;18(1-4):79-89.
13.) Mortensen S.A., Vadhanavikit S., Muratsu K., Folkers K. (1990) Coenzyme Q10: Clinical benefits with biochemical correlates suggesting a scientific breakthrough in the management of chronic heart failure. In: Int. J. Tissue React., Vol. 12 (3), pp 155-162.
14.) Rosenfeldt F, Hilton D, Pepe S, Krum H. Systematic review of effect of coenzyme Q10 in physical exercise, hypertension, and heart failure. Biofactors. 2003;18(1-4):91-100.
15.) Silver MA, Langsjoen PH, Szabo S, Patil H, Zelinger A. Effect of atorvastatin on left ventricular diastolic function and ability of coenzyme Q10 to reverse that dysfunction. Am J Cardiol. 2004 Nov 15;94(10):1306-10.
16.) Singh RB; Wander GS et al Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther, 12(4):347-53 1998 Sep.
17.) Singh RB; Wander GS et al Cardiovasc Drugs Ther, 12(4):347-53 1998 Sep.
18.) Weant KA, Smith KM. The role of coenzyme Q10 in heart failure. Ann Pharmacother. 2005;39(9):1522-6.

Vitamin-less Vegetables:


The New Nutrient Deficiency

Who Cares about Vegetables?

The National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the FDA and the USDA consider vegetables one of the primary dietary sources of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients (non-vitamin, non-mineral nutrients derived from plants). Why? Because optimal levels of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients are necessary to prevent cancer, heart disease, neurological disease, and diabetes to name only a few. In other words, those in science and medicine agree that humans need the nutrients contained in vegetables and some fruits for proper nutrition and good health. In fact, nutrient deficiencies are considered by many physicians and scientists to be one of the primary causes of disease today. Because of this, the current USDA recommendation is to eat 3-5 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruit per day.

The Sad News about Vegetables and Vitamins

YOU DO NOT EAT enough vegetables and high-nutrient fruits. How do I know this even if I don’t know you? Consider these facts:

I.) Most Americans do not achieve even the minimum 5 per day servings of produce. The current recommendations for veggie/fruit intake are 5-9 per day. A pickle, lettuce leaf, onion ring and ketchup on your burger DO NOT count as 4 servings of vegetables! Commercial fruit juice counts toward little but sugar intake because enzymes, fiber and vitamins are destroyed during processing. A side of french fries or onion rings with your burger don’t constitute a serving of nutrient-dense vegetable due to their high trans fat content and the fact that nutrients are destroyed during high-heat cooking. Further, for reason stated in #2 (below), even if you DO get 5-9 legitimate servings of vegetables per day, this current recommendation is almost surely NOT enough.

II.) Commercially grown vegetables and fruits today do not contain as many nutrients as before. According to Institute of Nutrition, recent studies of more than a dozen fruits and vegetables demonstrate a decrease in the nutrient value of most, and in some cases the drop is drastic. For instance, the Vitamin A content in apples has dropped from 90 mg to 53mg. Vitamin C in sweet peppers has decreased from 128mg to 89mg. This is why many at the NAS think the 5-9 servings recommendation should be doubled. (Math help: this updated recommendation would equal 10-18 servings per day of vegetables and fruits).

III.) Storing and/or cooking destroy many nutrients, rendering them “less” than a serving of the recommended daily dose.

Vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients (“plant nutrients” including bioflavonoids, carotenoids, proanthocyanidins, etc.) are crucial to good health, yet even a “good” Standard American Diet (SAD) does not contain enough of these nutrients to meet the proven standards that prevent disease. Further, surveys show that most Americans do not obtain the lower recommendation of 5 servings per day, let alone the upper recommendation of 9 servings per day. Nutritional Supplementation appears both valuable and necessary in achieving the proven health-protective doses of nutrients.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment:

While the USDA, FDA and commercial agri-business assure us that vegetables and fruits are as healthy as ever, the USDA’s own records show a plummeting level of nutrients since the 1960’s. All the while, medical science keeps stacking up new studies that demonstrate the disease-preventing effects of optimal doses of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Still, you’ll read propaganda that assures you that you don’t need supplements because you can obtain everything you need from “a good diet.” (And you probably could get everything you need from diet IF you ate 5-9 servings of produce that was home-grown and eaten fresh, meat that was grass-fed without antibiotics and hormones, and dairy from same). But that’s not the reality of the American diet. Perhaps that is why, in spite spending more money on healthcare than any country in the world, the US ranks only 24th in life expectancy.

All unsupported claims to the contrary, nutritional supplementation with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients appears to be the safest, surest and least expensive way to stay healthy and reverse disease.

Here is what I personally take and recommend to others to help achieve optimal daily nutrition:

Maxi Multi multi vitamin, mineral and trace mineral supplement with optimal does of nutrients (the levels shown in studies to prevent disease), not minimal doses.
AND
Maxi Greens high potency multiple green food supplement in capsules
AND/OR
Greens First , a powdered, great-tasting green food supplement that has the equivalent of 10 servings of veggies in one refreshing drink. (The taste is so good you can even get kids to take it)!

And here’s a handy tip from Wellness Club member JoAnne, who dries out her empty water bottles, adds a serving of GreensFirst and takes the bottles to work. For a quick pick-me-up, she just adds water and shakes!

References

5-A-Day Guide^

USDA^

Veggies W/out Vitamins^

Drop in minerals concerns organic community^

Organic consumer association^

New Study Shows Decreasing Nutrient Value of Certain Fruits and Vegetables – An Increasing Need for Multivitamin and Mineral Complex Supplements^

Population Life Expectancy^