Hundreds of bottles of Myomin are sold every month.  This is actually unfortunate because people are buying it since they have too much estrogen.  If you have too much estrogen, it is linked estrogen-dominant problems such as uterine fibroids, thyroid troubles, endometriosis, cysts, cancer, infertility issues, and the list goes on and on. 

How does Myomin work? 

Myomin helps block the aromatase enzyme in the body.  If you block or reduce the production of aromatase, you reduce the production of estrogen.  Myomin doesn’t technically reduce estrogen in the body, rather it indirectly reduces the production of estrogen.  Myomin works great for women with mild to moderatly elevated levels of estrogen.

Why do estrogen levels increase? 

Toxins!  Toxins in our environment mimic estrogen, like a copycat.  Bisphenol A (BPA) is a classic example.  BPA is in many products, such as plastic water bottles, the lining of canned foods, and cash register receipts.   Be aware of what you’re eating and where it comes from to reduce your chemical exposure.  Trash all those plastic water bottles and drink out of non-plastic bottles and cups.  Try those cool stainless steel or glass water bottles currently on the market.    

Being Overweight.  Adipose tissue creates estrogen.  If you’re overweight and have estrogen troubles, lose weight.  I know this is a big statement.  A few suggestions to start:  eat enough protein every day, eliminate all the white foods and processed foods, eat plenty of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables.   

Tests:  Ask your doctor about ordering an Estrogen Fractionation Test for you.  It tests estrogen levels of E1, E2, and E3.  Some estrogens are more harmful and more risky than other estrogens.  It’s important to know the levels of all the different types of estrogens.

Also ask your doctor to check your Vitamin D and Iodine levels. 

DIM & I3C:  taken for really high estrogen levels.  Can reduce estrogen levels even more than Myomin.

Disclaimer:
Always talk with your doctor about infections as they can become life threatening.  Any information provided is merely to support your understanding - not to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Re-posted per Dr. Ben’s podcast on 7/20/11

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

It is highly recommended that with any infection caused by bacteria, fungus, etc. you have your doctor run a Culture & Sensitivity Test.  This way you know what is going to kill the harmful pathogens and get rid of them.  Then you also need to understand how you got the infection in the first place.

Here is one test to check out:  GI Effects Chemistries Profile - Stool

To help eradicate harmful pathogens:

1.  Microbial Defense:  consider taking 1-2 capsules two to three times a day before a meal to help support the body's ability to fend off the candida, yeast, fungus, bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other unwanted pathogens.  Start with less and increase if you don't have any unwanted side effects. 

2.  Saccharomyces boulardii:  consider taking 25 billion saccharomyces boulardii during times of unwanted harmful bacterial infections as research supports its use heavily for clostridium difficile (c. diff) and other infections such as giardia.  Saccharomyces is beneficial yeast which is naturally in our gut in small amounts.  Taking this and a probiotic is important for anyone with a history of  being off and on antibiotics.

3.  ProBiota 12 Probiotic Powder:  consider taking 100 billion to 400 billion beneficial bacteria during an infection of undesired intestinal or internal bacteria.  The powder form of ProBiota 12 is more potent than the capsules and is ideal in a situation where the unwanted bacteria are housed in the throat or mouth.  Take the probiotic powder everyday, about 10 minutes after dinner.  Take 1/2 tsp. to start.  You may experience some gas and bloating.  If the gas or bloating is untolerable, decrease to 1/4 tsp.  If you can tolerate the gas and bloating, let it subside and then increase to 1 tsp. and stay there for about 1 month. After one month decrease to 1/4 tsp. and eventually 1/8 tsp.

4.  PreGestion:  if stomach acid is low, one is more predisposed to a parasitic infection or unwanted bacteria.  Stomach acid is our natural defense against these types of invaders.  Ensure your stomach acid is working properly.  Consider taking 1 to 2 capsules during meals to increase stomach acid - especially important while traveling in third world countries or where hygiene is not practiced properly. 

Disclaimer:
Always talk with your doctor about infections as they can become life threatening.  Any information provided is merely to support your understanding - not to treat, diagnose or prescribe.

Re-posted per Dr. Ben’s podcast on 8/24/11.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

I’m always interested in smoothie recipes that are quick, easy, healthy, and most of all TASTY!

I came across this one and wanted to share it with you.  It’s full of antioxidants, phytonutrients, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and vitamin A.  The protein boost keeps your blood sugar levels stable and keeps you satisfied for longer.  Enjoy!

Tracy Anderson’s Sweet Potato Smoothie

1 sweet potato

1 cup milk

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp turmeric

Directions:
Puncture holes in sweet potato and microwave 5 to 8 minutes until soft, rotating halfway through.  Scoop out from skin and let cool.  Blend with milk, protein powder, cinnamon and turmeric and enjoy.  If you have a high power blender, such as a Vitamix, you can even leave the skin on the potato to add even more nutrients.

Enjoy!

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Don’t treat the symptom, treat the cause!  It is very important to determine the cause of your gastritis.  Once you have determined the cause, eliminate it and do not re-introduce it.   

Common Causes of Gastritis (Stomach Inflammation)

• Spicy or acid foods
• Coffee
• Stress
• Helicobacter Pylori (h. pylori); a main cause of gastritis
• Autoimmune diseases that attack the stomach lining, such as pernicious anemia
• Ibuprofen, aspirins, NSAID’s (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Bile Reflux
• Alcohol
• Celiac Disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity

How do you treat Gastritis?  Each product recommendation has a reasoning for treating chronic gastritis so please determine which would apply to your specific situation.

Manuka Honey:  Manuka is very healing for ulcers and also is known to help kill h. pylori.  Best to take Manuka honey between meals - about 1 tablespoon three times a day.

L-Glutamine Powder:  Glutamine is known to help heal gastritis because glutamine assists in repairing damaged tissue.  It is best to add between 10 to 30 grams to a liter water bottle and drink throughout the day - NOT all at once.  Sip it. First, start low - 10 grams (2 scoops) to see how you do.  If you feel you need more, you may increase by 1 scoop at a time. Start your day with L Glutamine upon waking and also take a big sip of it before bedtime so your stomach lining is bathing in it all night.  Drink a lot of water with the Glutamine so it doesn’t constipate you.

Zinc Carnosine (ZCG):  Kills h. pylori and effective for gastritis and acid reflux.  Take 75 mg Zinc Carnosine once to twice per day. 

ProBiota 12:  Probiotics are needed to help increase beneficial organisms in the digestive tract as harmful ones can cause issues - such as helicobactor pylori (aka: h. pylori).  Consider taking 50 to 200 billion CFU's of ProBiota 12 after dinner once a day.  

Saccharomyces boulardii:  This beneficial yeast is a killer to h. pylori.  Consider taking 3 capsules twice a day any time of day of Saccharomyces boulardii for two to three months.  If taking triple antibiotic therapy as a result of a positive urea breath test, S. boulardii improves the effectiveness of the triple antibiotic therapy.

Pro-Digestion Intensive:  To help support the digestion of your foods as improper digestion of things like gluten irritate the lining of the stomach causing gastritis.  Prevent that from happening by supporting your digestion with an effective digestive enzyme.  Consider taking 1 to 2 capsules with every meal.  Never take without a meal.  

PreGestion:  Low stomach acid typically is a cause of gastritis. This is counter intuitive but it is a fact.  H. pylori would not invade a stomach that is high in stomach acid as stomach acid kills h. pylori.  Only start taking PreGestion with meals (1 - 2 capsules) after a week of healing the stomach lining with Glutamine, Manuka honey and Saccharomyces boulardii. 

Taurine:  Taurine is recommended for people who have liver issues or problems with digesting fats. Liver issues or problems digesting fats can cause backflow of bile which is a cause of gastritis.  Consider taking 1-2 capsules of Taurine with breakfast and 1-2 capsules at dinner. Should you experience loose stools, back off and reduce the dose by half as Taurine stimulates bile flow which can cause loose stools.  For those of you constipated, you'll love Taurine.  

Homocystex:  Chronic gastritis causes vitamin B₁₂ deficiency especially if you have been taking antacids or proton pump inhibitors.  I highly recommend you replenish your vitamin B₁₂, folic acid and vitamin B₆ by taking Homocystex. Consider taking 1 capsule in the AM and one in the afternoon with a meal.  

Water Bottle:  To keep you hydrated and sipping your L Glutamine powder all day long.  A bottle NOT made of plastic is best.  To learn why, go here.

Treatment duration:  In regards to how long to take these supplement, almost all of these supplement recommendations are required only for a few months time.  Consider one month of use for every year of gastritis.  I do not recommend the use of any of these long term except Probiotia (capsules) and L-Glutamine Powder. 

Re-posted per Dr. Ben’s podcast on 8/16/11.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Do your nails break easily?  Do your you have horrible foot sweat?!  Have an infection you need help with?  If YES then Silicea is for you!

Silicea is the twelfth of the twelve cell salts.  It is also known as Silicic acid or silica.  This cell salt is made from rock crystals.

Where is Silicea found?  It is found in our bones, teeth, hair, nails, glands, skin, and mucus membranes.

What is Silicea used for? 

HOMEOPATHIC LANCET:  #1 remedy for removing foreign objects from the body.  Silica has a reputation as the “homeopathic lancet” because it hastens the pus-formation process. For example, boils or abscesses that are painful but not discharging yet. Give after a splinter has become embedded, and it will help the foreign body to be “evicted!”  It helps with infections and post-surgical scars that are inflamed, painful, and slow to heal.  Helps with acne with a lot of pus, leaving pock marks.  Dental abscesses and infections of the gums.

STAMINA:  Use after surgery to help get strength back.  Someone who has a short energy expenditure range, such as feeling exhausted after only 1 to 2 hours of waking in the morning.  Silica is a great energy manager.  People needing it delegate their energy...for example, manage their energy and time because of their concerns about running out of energy.

SWEATING:  Sweating is a key indicator a person needs Silica!  Horrible foot sweat and foot odor, and the sweat eats through socks.  Silica people sometimes wash their feet multiple times a day.  The worst thing you can do is use foot powder to suppress the sweat because anytime you suppress sweat in a silica person it makes them worse.  This remedy is used for athlete's foot.  Also works on sweaty hands or armpits.  Perspiration stains yellow. 

BODY TEMPERATURE:  Lack of heat...people needing Silica tend to get cold easily.

HAIR AND NAILS:  #1 cell salt for nails that break easily. Cracking nails, brittle nails, toenail problems with fungus, ingrown toenails, nails with white spots on them. Hair and nails are weak, brittle, thin, and break easily.

CHILDREN:  Teething babies take forever to produce teeth and get sick with diarrhea, cough, or a cold with every tooth.

BONES:  Silica is also useful for building the health and strength of bones after a fracture—take in alternation with Calc fluor and/or Calc phos.

CONSTIPATION:  Silica may be indicated for constipation with large, hard stools and lots of straining.

HEADACHES:  Headaches after a heavy period of work or with a sinus infection.  These headaches settle over the eyes and make the forehead feel heavy.

CONFIDENCE:  Feelings of lack of self confidence. Feelings of a lack of "grit." Feelings of shyness or timidity.

How do I take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia!

I'm so intrigued by chia seeds!  The tiny, crunchy balls that become soft and gel-like after soaking in liquid are such a cool little food!  I have been buying them for a couple years now and add them to my oatmeal, smoothies, and homemade energy bars, but wanted another option. 

I found this recipe while looking for kid-friendly recipes and thought it looked yummy, so decided to try it.  It was really quick and easy to throw together.  After 3-4 hours in the refrigerator, the mixture started to thicken into a pudding-like consistency.  Over the course of the 4 hours, the chia seeds soften, yet still provide a textured feel in your mouth.  The vanilla flavor is subtle.  The recipe makes a lot.  Next time I will make a quarter of the recipe so none goes to waste.  Bottom line...my 18-month-old gave this recipe a thumbs up! 

Fun Facts about Chia:  Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.  Because of the high antioxidant levels, the seeds don't deteriorate and can be stored for long periods of time without becoming rancid.  Chia's don't have to be ground up to make their nutrients available to the body.

Chia and Nutrition Facts:  Chia seeds provide 11 grams of fiber in 1 Tablespoon (28 grams)!  One Tablespoon also provides 177mg of calcium, close to 20% of your daily calcium needs.  Chia's also provide phosphorus, manganese, and zinc.

Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding 

2 cups milk--I used whole milk for my 1 year old.  You can use any type of milk---cow, almond, rice, etc.

1/4 cup honey, maple syrup, or agave

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup chia seeds

Preparation:

1.  In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, honey and vanilla.  Add the chia seeds and stir to combine.

2.  Refrigerate 4 hours, whisking about every hour.

3.  Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Modifications:  Consider embelishing your pudding with fruits such as a cup up mango, berries or chopped peaches.  Have fun experimenting with added flavors such as unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, or peanut butter.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Recipe is compliments of:  http://weelicious.com/2013/04/08/chia-seed-pudding/

Does cold, damp weather often make you sick?  Just one of the many symptoms Nat Sulph can help with! 

Nat Sulph  is the eleventh of the twelve cell salts.

This cell salt is associated with the color GREEN!  Whether it be a greenish coating on the tongue, green mucus, or green stools, Nat Sulph will help.

Where is Natrum Sulphuricum found?  Natrum Sulph is found primarily in the head and liver.

Here are some of the many uses for Natrum Sulph:

LIVER:  Toxic Liver, liver problems, acute and chronic Hepatitis, bile flow problems in the liver and gallbladder. Someone who has never been well since Hepatitis. Diarrhea in the morning after getting up.

ASTHMA:   Asthma which worsens with dampness; awakening at night with asthma attacks. Asthma in children. Yellow-green sinusitis. Must hold chest when coughing.

HEADACHE:  A good remedy for headaches...headache from sunlight, headache after head injury (after swelling is gone).

EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS:  Feelings of confusion, feelings of periodic sadness, feelings of heaviness and irritability.

DAMPNESS:  People who need Nat sulph are vulnerable to cold, damp weather, or to humidity and then they fall sick with a cough or a cold. They can’t stand the dampness. They feel every change from dry to wet weather.  Always feels best in warm, dry air.

How do you take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Nail Fungus.  It appears easy to get, but once you get it, it seems impossible to get rid of.

I'm keeping it simple.

Causes of Nail Fungus:

1. Damage:  You hit your nail against something, damaged it and this lifted the nail off the nail bed allowing fungus to crawl under.
2. Contagious:  You were at a nail salon or foot spa or some other nice relaxing place (or a Gym) and their tools were contaminated with fungus.
3. Yeast Overgrowth:  Antibiotics, sugar addictions, poor diet, poor digestion, antacids and/or stress leading to yeast overgrowth.
4. Immune Weakness:  Heavy metal exposure, yeast overgrowth, stress, nutrient deficiency, lack of sleep all point to a weak immune system.
5. Environment:  Perhaps your feet live in shoes or socks which do not breathe well.
6. Poor Circulation:  Diabetic?  Stressed?  Cold feet = poor circulation which leads to nail fungus.

That's it for causes of Nail Fungus.

The trick to eradicating Nail Fungus for good is understanding which one(s) caused your nail fungus.

#1 or #4?  Perhaps a combination of #3, #4 and #5?

Either way, I have helped 1000's of people over the years battle Nail Fungus.  Many successfully - and some not so successfully.

I attribute the not so successful ones because I recommended one system for all types of Nail Fungus.

That doesn't work.

Sometimes the hole is square and a round peg doesn't work.

Nail Fungus Treatments which you DO NOT want to use:

1. Lamisil or other oral antifungals:  Very damaging to the liver. So much so that the docs are supposed to check your liver enzymes before - and during treatment.
2. Laser Treatments:  A total waste of time and very expensive.
3. Direct Essential Oils:  Essential Oils are Toxic if you do not dilute them. Never apply essential oils directly to your body - especially for extended periods of time.
4. Likely others but ...

Nail Fungus Treatment Recipe that I have seen work for many.  It is a recipe and must be followed completely.

1. Vick's Vapour Rub
2. Rosemary Essential Oil
3. Tea Tree Essential Oil
4. Oregano Essential Oil
5. Lavender Essential Oil
6. White Camphor Essential Oil

Mix 10 drops of each Essential Oil above into your Vick's Vapor Rub.  Stir well. Apply every day morning and night to your nails.  You only need a little bit.

Speed the Growth of Your Nails
Nail fungus damages your nails and in order to get healthy nails, you need to grow more healthy nail - faster.

How do you do speed the growth of Nails???
1) Biotin 5:  Take 1 capsule of Biotin 5 every day (not 2 capsules - 1 - more is not better).
Biotin increases the growth rate of nails, hair and even helps your skin - especially if you have dandruff or eczema.

Not only does Biotin improve the growth rate of nails, it also kills yeast!
Research shows that Biotin actually inhibits yeast from reproducing.

2) MSM Plus Molybdenum: Take 2 capsules a day with or without food.  You are getting two benefits here as well.
MSM not only benefits healthy nail growth but healthy hair growth also.
The added Molybdenum helps process the toxins released from Candida - and so does the MSM.

Crave Sugar?  Taken Antibiotics?  Candida?

1. ProBiota 12 Powder:  take 1/4 teaspoon after dinner for 1 week then take 1/2 teaspoon until the bottle is gone. Then switch to taking 1/8 teaspoon as a maintenance dose (Makes the environment inhospitable to yeast/candida).
2. Saccharomyces Boulardii:  take 2 capsules in the AM and 2 in the PM (helps kill the Candida).
3. Microbial Defense:  take 1 capsule at night before bed for 1 week.  Then take 1 capsule in the AM on a weekend end.  If you feel ok, then take 1 capsule AM and PM.  Then after one week, take 1 capsule three times a day.  Then take 2 capsules three times a day.  Once three bottles are gone.  Stop.  Do not use anymore.
4. Optimal Vitamin C Powder:  helps process the toxins released from Candida as it dies off. (so does MSM Plus Molybdenum so you may not need Optimal Vitamin C - but if you drink soda, lot of juice - then I recommend you substitute Optimal Vitamin C Powder for those as water with added Optimal Vitamin C Powder tastes excellent - like Tang - but healthy and beneficial.
5. Eat some form of protein snack every couple hours in order to maintain blood sugar.  This works to control your sugar cravings.  Try it!

Poor Circulation Causing Nail Fungus:

1. Flow Fx:  take 1 capsule of Flow Fx in the AM and PM - 12 hours apart. Flow Fx contains an enzyme which reduces fibrin and this helps reduce blood 'thickness'. Do not take Flow Fx if you are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.
2. Reduce your stress through meditation, exercise, find your passions again!
3. Stretch.  Stretch your calves, hamstrings, quadriceps in order to reduce pressure off your arteries. Tight muscles compress arteries thereby reducing blood flow.
4. Contrast Hydrotherapy.  Get your feet hot for 2 minutes and then follow it with 30 seconds of cold. Do this three times.  This encourages blood flow to the area.  Do daily.

That's it to getting rid of Nail Fungus!

Do let me know how it works for you. I think you'll be very impressed!

There is a lot of information here.  I want you to be informed, make the right choice and get healthy.

Keep me posted how you are feeling. Yes - I truly do care and want you to improve!

In health,

Dr Ben

One topic I often get questions about is GLUTEN.  Ten years ago, most of us didn’t know what it was but now “gluten” is quite the buzzword.  Even if you don’t understand what “gluten” actually means, you have probably seen menus and products that are free of it.  It is probably safe to say every person in the U.S. knows someone who gets sick after eating it.  It’s no wonder since research estimates 18 million Americans have non-celiac gluten sensitivity! 

Let’s be clear…there is a difference between celiac’s disease and gluten sensitivity.  I’m referring to non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).  Gluten is a protein found in wheat, and similar trouble-causing proteins are also found in rye, barley, and triticale.

Researchers are just beginning to explore non-celiac gluten sensitivity, so I will do my best to summarize what we know to date.

What is it? 

• Non-celiac gluten sensitivity describes those individuals who cannot tolerate gluten and experience symptoms similar to those with celiac disease but yet who lack the same antibodies and intestinal damage as seen in celiac disease. 
• NCGS does not appear to be genetically based and unlike celiac disease, a lab test can’t diagnose NCGS. 
• Diagnosing it involves ruling out celiac’s and a wheat allergy followed by an elimination diet and then a gluten-challenge. 
• If symptoms improve after eliminating gluten, it’s likely you have NCGS.

What are the symptoms of NCGS? 

• As far as symptoms go, there is some overlap with celiac disease; however, according to recent research, non-intestinal symptoms are predominant with NCGS.  
• Symptoms include headaches, tingling/numbness in the legs, arms or fingers, “foggy brain,” and joint pain.  The symptoms typically appear hours or days after gluten has been eaten. 

Treatment? 

• The only treatment of these yucky symptoms is a strict, lifelong, 100% gluten-free diet.

Does having NCGS increase your risk of developing other autoimmune disorders? 

• Research has found celiac disease is associated with other autoimmune disorders and neurological conditions like headaches and peripheral neuropathy.  
• When it comes to NCGS, very little is known, but the research that does exist suggests NCGS is not likely to be associated with other autoimmune conditions, but this is clearly a work in progress.

Bottom Line:  There is plenty of room for more research about this topic, but ultimately a strict, lifelong, 100% gluten-free diet is recommended.  Consider receiving nutrition counseling from a registered dietitian to ensure you are keeping a healthy, balanced diet.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  www.celiaccentral.org

2.  Sapone et al. Spectrum of gluten-related disorders: consensus on new nomenclature and classification.  BMC Medicine.  2012,10:13 

Always popping antacids?  Do you have inflammed, achy joints?  Try Nat Phos!

Nat Phos  is the tenth of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Nat Phos found?  It is found primarily in the nerves, muscles, joints and digestive organs.

How can Nat Phos help you? 

ANTACID:  This remedy's key function is to act as an antacid and to maintain the acid-base balance of the body. It makes sense to use this remedy if suffering from heartburn, indigestion, gas, upset stomach and gastric acid reflux.  Those who need Nat Phos suffer from pain and acidity in the stomach after eating and don't tolerate many foods such as milk, fats, and sweets.  Can also be used for colicy infants who vomit curdled milk after eating.

ABSORPTION:  Nat Phos can also help with overall nutritional status by improving the absorption of fats and other nutrients from the diet. 

JOINTS:  With a deficiency of Nat Phos, an acidic environment can develop in the body with resulting inflammation, stiffness and swelling of the joints, gout and other rheumatic ailments.

OTHER USES:  Consider using this remedy for headaches on the top of the head, crusty eyelids upon waking, painful eyes, morning sickness, chronic constipation, nausea, a yellow coated tongue, and muscle soreness caused by lactic acid buildup.

EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS:   An acidic state can also cause effect your brain and consequently cause much emotional upset.  Consider giving this remedy to someone who is angry, jealous, envious, hateful and even violent to help in easing these strong negative emotions.

How do you take cell sats?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

As a mom of two young kids, I was thrilled to see the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a policy statement to raise awareness about the harmful effects pesticides have on young children. 

The report states, “Pediatricians should ask parents about pesticide use around the home and yard, offer guidance about safe storage, and recommend parents choose lowest-harm approaches when considering pest control.”  It also urges pediatricians to work with schools and government agencies to advocate for the least toxic methods of pest control—and to inform communities when pesticides are being used in the area.

Each spring, I am blown away when I walk into Home Depot and am greeted by prominent displays of economy-sized spray-containers of Roundup, Monsanto’s ubiquitous glyphosphate.  Exposure has been linked in some studies to ADHD, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, miscarriages, and hormone changes. (I’m equally blown away when I see neighbors spraying it on their own yards!)

Somehow, our society still has a blind spot about using pesticides, which is defined as any substance used to kill a pest. If it kills pests, it can’t be good for us—much less our developing young children. Are dandelions and flies such an impediment to our wellbeing that we are willing to risk poisoning our families, not to mention contaminating our water supply?

Here’s the good news:  there are many effective, nontoxic fixes to pest problems—and most of them are a lot less expensive than their chemical counterparts!  As parents (and pediatricians) better understand the serious downsides of pesticide use inside their home, in their yards, and in their local communities, I hope they will be motivated to learn about and use these alternatives.

Know thy enemies (common household products considered pesticides)

• Rodent poisons
• Insect repellents
• Cockroach sprays and baits
• Flea and tick sprays, powders and pet collars
• Kitchen, laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers
• Products that kill mold and mildew
• Lawn and garden weed killers
• Some swimming pool and hot tub chemicals

How to reduce pests without exposing your family to pesticides

Instead of going straight to the most toxic chemicals to immediately kill household pests, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health recommends the following:

• First, analyzing the source of the infestation
• Eliminate all possible indoor and outdoor food sources and habitats
• Keep indoors dry, clean and well ventilated
• If this does not solve the problem, use chemicals only in minimal, recommended amounts that are mixed or diluted outdoors and applied in well-ventilated areas
• Be sure to dispose of unneeded pesticides safely.

As a pesticide-free option, check out BioCare’s pesticide-free insect & pest traps. 

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Article courtesy of Delicious Living blog, (published 11/29/12), found here.

Nat Mur, otherwise known as Sodium Chloride and table salt, is the ninth of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Nat Mur found?  It is found in all bodily fluids and is important for the proper functioning of mucus membranes.  Also found in your skin.

How can Nat Mur help you?

WATER BALANCE or DRYNESS:  Nat Mur is the master regulator of fluids moving in and out of every cell.  The water balance of people needing Nat mur is disturbed.  A deficiency in Nat Mur can cause either excessive dryness or excessive moisture in the body.  Examples of dryness include:  in the mouth with a corresponding big thirst; dry lips; cracked finger tips; dry bowels which become constipated. 

WATER BALANCE or EXCESS WATER:  With excessive water, think of using this remedy for conditions such as greasy skin, production of thin clear mucus, swelling, edema, and excess salivation. 

COUGH/COLD:  Nat Mur is indicated in the early stages of a dry cough and for colds with watery or clear but thick, eggwhite-like mucus.

ANTIHISTAMINE:  Nat Mur can act as an antihistamine and is useful in the treatment of allergies and hay fever.

MOUTH:  This is an excellent remedy for cold sores (herpes) on the lips and around the mouth, and also for blisters on the tip of the tongue, and/or painful mouth ulcers.

INSECT BITES:  This remedy can also be applied topically to insect bites.  Topical application of cell salts is effective. You can dissolve the tablets in a bit of water and apply the resulting paste with a cotton swab to the affected area.

NUTRITION:  A deficiency in Nat Mur is often accompanied by an increased craving for salt or salty foods and eating such foods most often does not satisfy the craving.

BACK PAIN:  A person needing Nat Mur may get back pain that is better when lying on a hard surface, like the floor.

EMOTIONS:  Nat Mur is considered a major grief remedy on the emotional level.  Nat Mur may help the person who has recently had a significant loss—of a loved one, a job, or a dream, for example—and hasn’t mourned or healed. The person holds in their tears, and this causes all sorts of problems from headaches to insomnia.  Grief in children of divorced parents. They cry in bed by themselves, never crying in front of anyone.

How do I take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Here’s a remedy you won’t find in the first aid kit, but rather in your kitchen.  HONEY!  Something you may not know about honey is it has the ability to kill bacteria and heal wounds because it is very acidic.  Although the idea of putting honey on a wound seems a bit strange, it has actually been used for treating infected wounds and other skin conditions for thousands of years.

Not just any Honey...Active Manuka Honey!

In particular, Active Manuka honey is an all-natural, organic honey from New Zealand and is used as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, and antifungal. 

What is UMF?

UMF is an abbreviation that stands for Unique Manuka Factor.  Immediately after the letters UMF on a package of Manuka honey, there will be a number.  This number starts at 10 and increases up to 20.  The UMF number is a standard way of describing the bacteria-killing power of the honey and the higher the number, the higher the potency.

The high sugar content of the honey produces an antibacterial molecule called hydrogen peroxide, which can be used as a disinfectant.  The presence of both hydrogen peroxide and the UMF property work synergistically to make the honey even more effective as an antibacterial.

Kills Bad Bacteria

Active Manuka honey is highly effective against hard-to-kill, antibiotic-resistant “superbugs,” such as MRSA.  Studies show the UMF property has also been found effective against a wide range of bacteria including the very resistant stomach bacteria H. pylori., the wound-infecting bacteria staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and streptococcus pyogenes, which causes a sore throat.

Provides Relief...Naturally

Studies are showing Manuka Honey with high levels of UMF could be very effective in helping relieve stomach ulcer symptoms and gastritis, and when applied topically, in assisting the natural healing of skin ulcers, wounds, burns, boils, and cracked skin by diffusing deep into the skin.

Studies also show the UMF property helps make UMF Manuka Honey excellent for relieving sore throats and oral hygiene.

As a reminder, honey should not be fed to infants under one year old.

Bottom Line:  Active Manuka Honey is promising as a natural treatment for many conditions.  The higher the UMF rating the greater the antibacterial strength of the honey which ensures the best results.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

http://www.manukahoneyafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/pdf/manuka_honey_as_a_medicine.pdf

Mag Phos  is the eighth of the twelve cell salts and has been called the "homeopathic aspirin" because of its ability to heal acute pains anywhere such as earache, headache, toothache (including teething in babies), and even sciatica—as long as the pains are better with the use of heat and pressure.

Where is Mag Phos found?  It is found primarily in the body's nerves, bones, and muscles, including the heart.

How can Mag Phos help you? 

PAINS AND SPASMS:  This remedy is primarily known for its terrific ability to treat spasms, menstrual and stomach cramps, darting pains, hiccups, muscle twitching and convulsions, spasmodic palpitation of the heart, and spasmodic yawning.  It is also useful for any stabbing, burning, and often quite severe pain that occurs along a damaged nerve.

MENSTRUAL CRAMPS:  Mag Phos won’t work for all women but it will relieve a significant number suffering from this miserable complaint.  It won’t necessarily cure the problem but it will provide much appreciated relief—as long as the pains are much better for heat and pressure. Those needing this remedy can be found lying doubled up in bed with a hot water bottle (or heating pad) pressed into their crampy abdomens.  Hot baths also relieve the pains.

NEUROLOGICAL COMPLAINTS:  Interestingly, all of the phosphate cell salts (Calc Phos, Nat Phos, and Mag Phos) are very useful with nervous and neurological complaints as well. 

NUTRITION:  This salt is found in cereals, grains and beer.  Many people are deficient in Magnesium Phosphate and a craving for these foods and drink may signal a need for this particular remedy.

How do I take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Kali Sulph, also known as Potassium Sulphate, is the seventh of twelve cell salts. 

This cell salt is associated with the color  YELLOW!  Whether it be yellow discharge or mucus from a cough, cold, or earache or a yellow-coated tongue, Kali Sulph will help.

Where is Kali Sulph found?  It primarily effects the skin and the mucus membranes. It carries oxygen to your cells.  It is the remedy for the late stage of inflammation.

Here are some of the many uses for Kali Sulph: 

LUNGS:  When coughing up yellow mucus, such as a chest cold or with sinusitis.  A good remedy for children with bronchitis.  The cough is loose but the mucus is difficult to cough up.  A change of weather from cold to warm can bring on symptoms.  A cough, cold, or joint pain that move around the body and are worse with heat and better for a walk in the fresh air.

SKIN:  Helpful for treating psoriasis and eczema.  There can be much itching which is worse at night.  Also used for pimples and blemishes or other eruptions of the skin, such as poison ivy and poison oak.

EARS:  Earache or eardrum inflammation.  During an earache, the person has crackling in the ears when chewing and temporary hearing loss from mucus in the middle ear.

HAIR:  Kali Sulph is a famous dandruff remedy.  Can also be used for ringworm of the scalp.

MENOPAUSE:  Try Kali Sulph for those uncomfortable hot flashes.

How do I take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here. 

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Kali Phos, also known as Potassium Phosphate, is the sixth of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Kali Phos found?  It is found in all cells, especially the gray matter of the brain, nerves, muscles, blood cells and plasma.  All oxidation processes use this. 

How can Kali Phos help you? 

BRAIN AND NERVES:  Kali Phos is especially effective for use with the brain and nerves.  Someone who is nervous and restless will benefit from Kali Phos.  Good for nervous exhaustion.

MEMORY AND BRAIN FATIGUE:  Kali Phos is great for sharpening the memory and brain fatigue.  It can be used for those who are worn out following a heavy work or study period.  Consider it a stress buster for students during exam time and those with mentally-taxing occupations, such as accountants and software engineers.  Good for someone who is stressed and worn out from taking on too much. 

INSOMNIA:  This remedy is also lovely for the simple insomnia that follows a period of excitement or intense work or mental strain, when a person feels worn out but cannot sleep.  This works well for people who work irregular hours.

OTHER SIGNS KALI PHOS MAY HELP YOU:  People who need this remedy feel better with—and desperately need—warmth and rest, and a healthy diet to build themselves up again.  They feel emotionally sluggish and can become mildly depressed.  They get one-sided headaches and may be sensitive to light and noise, and be easily startled. 

How do I take cell salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

What is Essential Oxygen 3% Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide??   It is H₂O_2, which is water with an extra boost of oxygen.  Advocates of food grade hydrogen peroxide 3% claim it is the cleanest way to clean....everything! 

The 3% concentration is very important.  Avoid a concentration any stronger than this unless you know how to properly dilute it.  The "Food Grade" label is also important.

What's in it?  It is Certified USDA Organic with no heavy metals--free of sodium laurel sulfates, chlorine bleach, pesticides, fluoride, glycerin and alcohol.  It contains 3% hydrogen peroxide and water.

What is it for, you say??  It actually has many, many uses.  Let's take a look at some of them in more detail.

Fruit and Vegetable Cleaner:  The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers hydrogen peroxide a sanitizer so you can clean the skins of your fruits and vegetables before eating them or even spray the produce after you cut into it.  Simply spray, let stand for a few minutes, rinse and dry.

Cleaning the "toxic zone"...the Bathroom!  As a disinfectant, spray the food grade hydrogen peroxide solution 3% on counters, toilets, bathtubs, floors, etc.  Truth be told, any room can safely be cleaned with hydrogen peroxide.  I definitely plan to try this on my kitchen counters and appliances!

For fungus and mold control for roses and vegetables:  Mix 5 Tablespoons baking soda and 5 Tablespoons 3% hydrogen peroxide in one gallon of water.  Spray directly onto roses and vegetables.

Laundry use:  Food grade hydrogen peroxide is powerful and can be used to bleach your clothes.  This is great for removing any pesky stains or keeping those whites white.

Use for Oral Health:  Hydrogen peroxide is highly regarded as an antiseptic, anti-bacterial mouthwash that promotes healthier gums, calms tooth sensitivity, treats canker sores, breaks up tartar, conquers bad breath, and stops stankin' morning mouth.  Note:  do not swallow the solution!

You can also use Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide Solution 3% for gently whitening teeth, and it has a powerful first aid effect on Gingivitis, bacterial gum pockets, and receding gums.

How do you store the Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide Solution 3%?  The opaque bottle filters out the sun--the sun can damage hydrogen peroxide.  Keep the bottle in a cool place because hydrogen peroxide breaks down very easily.

Warnings:  Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide Solution 3% by Essential Oxygen is for external use only.  The FDA does not recommend for internal use.  Do not use in the eyes or apply to large areas of the body.  Do not use on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns.

This product is available in an 8 or 16 fl oz bottle with sprayer.

Link to Essential Oxygen's Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide Solution 3%

Link to Essential Oxygen's Brushing Rinse

Cheers to green cleaning and healthy gums and teeth!

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Portobello's are the vegetarian's steak!  But even the meat-eater will enjoy this recipe. 

The thick, meaty texture of the portobello, combined with the quinoa and nutty flavor from the walnuts are an absolute must try!  I made this recipe for dinner last night and I can't decide what I like best about it.  From the balsamic vinegar marinade to the cranberries and walnuts, each flavor adds something surprising and delicious to the overall taste.     

Another plus...quinoa is the only grain that is a complete protein source.  Since quinoa tastes great as a leftover, pack any leftover quinoa mixture for weekday lunches.

Cleaning Tip for Portobello's:  Technically, you should not wash mushrooms.  Rather, tap them on the counter to loosen any growing medium.  That didn't work for me.  I still saw little specks of dirt, so I lightly rinsed mine and they seemed fine. 

Removing the stem and gills:  You can twist the stem to remove it but use caution as you could break the mushroom cap.  I suggest using a small, sharp knife and gently cutting the stem even with the inside of the gills.  Also remove the gills with a sharp knife.  It's ok to leave a little gill around the edge of the mushroom or the cap may tear.

Cooking Tip for Portobello's:  The longer you cook the portobello, the meatier (firmer textured) the mushroom gets.

Serves:  3 large portobello mushrooms (5-6" in diameter)

3 large portobello mushrooms, stems and gills removed
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons grainy mustard
2/3 cup quinoa, uncooked
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup walnut pieces
1/4 cup dried cherries, raisins, or cranberries (I made my recipe with cranberries)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper
1 cup finely chopped parsley
Parmesan cheese

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and mustard.  Transfer to a large container and place the mushrooms cap side down in the oil mixture.  Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking quinoa on the stovetop:  In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and 1½ cups water.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 12 minutes, or until water has absorbed.  Another option:  cook quinoa in a rice cooker

Preheat oven to 350˚F.  Place mushrooms on a baking sheet cap side down and spread any leftover marinade on the stem side.  Bake for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.  Add garlic and carrot and cook for 5 minutes.  Stir in cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, walnuts, dried fruit, green onions, and salt and pepper to taste; heat for 2-5 minutes.  Remove from heat and stir in parsley.

Stuff each mushroom cap with quinoa mixture and bake for 10 minutes.  Drizzle each with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrient Analysis: Calories: 269; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 5 g; Monounsaturated Fat: 4 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 41 mg; Carbohydrates: 34 g; Fiber: 5 g; Protein: 8 g

Recipe courtesy of Today's Dietitian and Matthew Kadey, MS, RD

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

The color WHITE:  White tongue, White mucus, White pus.  Try Cell Salt #5!

Kali Mur is the fifth of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Kali Mur found?  It is primarily found in muscle, nerve, blood and brain cells.

How can Kali Mur help you?  Without the right balance of potassium chloride, fibrin, which is the clot former/coagulant, cannot be made, broken down, or kept in proper solution in the body.  A state of fibrin deficiency shows up as a white coating on the tongue or in white slime or phlegm via mucus, blisters, or scaly skin eruptions.  Kali Mur can be a great cleansing agent.

It makes sense Kali Mur is useful in the treatment of all inflammatory or catarrhal conditions such as everyday colds, coughs, bronchitis and chickenpox, measles, burns, leucorrhea (white blood cells flowing out of the system via diarrhea), jaundice, acne and asthma.

It slows the discharge of inflammatory secretions during illness and helps rebuild the weakened system to a more healthy state.

In addition, this remedy is useful for a white or gray coated tongue and any glandular swellings and mucus coming from the nose and/or eyes. 

Whether from sinus pain or indigestion, a heavy headache can find comfort in Kali mur, too.

The key point to remember about Kali Mur is that it is the remedy for sluggishness as it has the ability to add vitality and energy to the body. 

How do I take Cell Salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Fever, Blood loss, Anemia, Nose bleeds?  Try cell salt #4! 

Ferrum Phos is the fourth of the twelve cell salts

Where is Ferrum Phos found?  It is primarily found in the blood.

How can Ferrum Phos help you?  This widely used salt is THE principal first-aid remedy due to its oxygen carrying capacity and related anti-inflammatory action.  Fevers are treated most effectively using Ferrum Phos, especially in the acute stages.

Anemia and its associated fatigue as well as bleeding are other common indications for the use of this particular remedy.  Some sources comment on this remedy having the ability to slow or stop abnormal hemorrhage and bleeding.  External bleeding can often be stopped by sprinkling the powdered cell salt on the wound.  Remember that Ferrum Phos can be helpful in practically all illness especially during the acute stages.

How to take Cell Salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1. Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2. Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3. King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4. Saul, A. Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5. Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts. Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Is it March already?  Wow, yes it is!  It's NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH! 

This year's theme is EAT RIGHT, YOUR WAY, EVERY DAY

The theme encourages personalized healthy eating styles and recognizes that food preferences, lifestyle, health concerns, and cultural and ethnic traditions all impact individual food choices. 

Today, in particular, marks Registered Dietitian Day!  RD's play a critical role in helping people eat right, their way, every day.

I enjoy real, unprocessed, fresh food and apart from my every day eating routine, here are a few of my favorite Healthy Good products...

1. Seeking Health Probiota 12--I take this probiotic every night, after dinner.  I love the boost it gives my immune system--I am never sick!

2. Seeking Health Calcium Magnesium plus Vitamin D3 chewable--As a busy mom, I don't always have time to eat all the Calcium my body needs.  I take Cal Mag to fill in any missing Calcium I don't get from my food.  It is assuring to know I'm taking high quality, absorbable Calcium.  Plus, they're easy to chew and taste pretty good.

3. Vanilla Protein powder--This is a great way to add protein to my diet, along with some yummy flavor.  For breakfast or a snack, I add the protein powder to the blender with oranges and organic milk to make an "orange julius."  It takes like dessert!  I also add a scoop to my oatmeal to boost the protein content.

What is your eating style?  What are your favorite Healthy Good products?

For more information about National Nutrition Month and Registered Dietitian Day, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Skin Ailments, Wounds, Infections, Pimples, Foot Odor?  Consider Cell Salt #3!

Calc Sulph  is the third of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Calc Sulph found?  It is primarily found in the skin.

How can Calc Sulph help?  Calc Sulph is an important remedy for skin ailments and wounds that are slow to heal.  This remedy has the ability to improve the structural integrity of the skin while also controlling the production and discharge of pus which is thick, yellow and lumpy. 

If there is exudate or discharge from any part of the body from bronchitis, acne, boils, abscesses or ulcers, this remedy may be very helpful in cleansing the system and ridding the body of these infections.

Consider using this remedy at the first sign of a new infection or after colds, it helps clean out a lingering, thick, croupy morning cough.

If you have burning, itching, sweaty soles and the typical strong foot odors that follow, Calc sulph can bring much relief.    

Calc Sulph is also known to be a strong blood purifier because of its potent detoxifying effect on the liver.  This salt, therefore, is excellent in preventing general ill health and infections of all types. 

One factor that separates Calc sulph from the other Calc remedies, is that heat makes everything feel worse.  Though cold air may aggravate symptoms, those who need Calc phos most hate being too hot or in hot stuffy rooms and will kick off the covers most of the time.

How to take Cell Salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1.  Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2.  Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3.  King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4.  Saul, A.  Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5.  Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts.  Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

FIGHTING THE FLU with Chi’s Herbs

You’ve heard it in the news:  most of the United States is having an early and severe flu season, with 47 states reporting widespread influenza activity (Center for Disease Control). According to reports, for every 100,000 people, 13.3 of them are hospitalized because of the flu.

So what can you do to avoid getting the flu?

• Try to avoid exposure
• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Keep a safe distance when talking to a person who may have the flu
• Boost your immune system with natural supplements like Bamboo Extract, Cordyceps Extract, Reishi Spore Extract and Asparagus Extract.

Bamboo Extract is an excellent supplement for upper respiratory infections. It works quickly for chronic and acute respiratory infections, especially in children, young adults and the elderly. Whether you have the flu, a cold, or cough (especially cough with phlegm), take Bamboo Extract immediately to relieve symptoms and fight the infection. Bamboo Extract has inhibitory effect against viruses and bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and more. One of its active components is guaiacul, an important ingredient also found in Tamiflu, a conventional flu medicine.

Cordyceps Extract helps strengthen your lung function and boost immunity. Cordyceps sinensis has long been known to have immune-regulating effects. It increases the number of lymphocytes and natural killer cells, which help fight infection.  It also relieves bronchial inflammation and enhances oxygen uptake while improving resistance to hypoxia.

Asparagus Extract is a most powerful alkaline agent and is an excellent immune booster. In one study on cancer patients who had severely compromised immunity due to chemotherapy and radiation, Asparagus Extract improved non-specific immune responses (IgG, IgM, T cells, etc.) after two months.

Reishi Spore Extract is another supplement known for its immune-enhancing properties. It promotes production of interferon, interleukins, lymph cells and improves macrophage function to better fight infections.  

Get Healthy and Stay Healthy!

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Don't CELL yourself short!! Use CELL SALTS instead! 

Calc Phos is the second of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Calc Phos found?  While it is found in all cells and fluids of the body it is considered the primary builder of bone tissue.

How can Calc Phos help?  Calc Phos may be a terrific remedy for bone disorders and healing, including osteopenia and osteoporosis.  Aids conditions with structural stress, growth, or weakness, such as the elderly who are suffering from symptoms of decline.  

Calc Phos (along with Mag Phos) may be very helpful for the treatment of cramps and spasms such as back and neck pain, menstrual cramps, etc.

It is often used frequently for weak digestion, stomach aches, and poor assimilation of food and nutrients.

It is best to remember this is a remedy for feelings of overall exhaustion, weakness and fatigue. Calc Phos is able to provide restorative powers to the body after mental, emotional, or physical stress, acute disease or infections.

Children and Calc Phos:  Consider this remedy for children during dentition, toddlerhood, growth spurts, and puberty.  Young children who are slow to get their teeth or walk or talk can get a jump start with Calc phos' support.  

How to take Cell Salts?  To learn how to take cell salts, go here.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods
 
Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

References:

1.  Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994. 

2.  Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3.  King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4.  Saul, A.  Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005. 

5.  Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts.  Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

Don't CELL yourself short!!  Use CELL SALTS instead! 

Calc Fluor is the first of the twelve cell salts.

Where is Calc Fluor found?  Primarily in the surface of our teeth and bones.  It contributes to much of the characteristic hardness of our teeth and bones while also keeping many other tissues soft and flexible such as our blood vessels, muscles, connective tissues, and ligaments.

How can Calc Fluor help?  It is best to remember that Calc Fluor is responsible for tissue ELASTICITY.  This cell salt offers fundamental healing support for tissues in an overly relaxed state---worn out, flabby, and lax.  Problems like muscle/tendon/ligament laxity or weakness, stretch marks, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, loose or decaying teeth, deficient tooth enamel, and enlarged/hardened glands may respond well to this remedy. 

This remedy can also be very helpful for skin that has lost its elasticity and has become dry and cracked especially the hands, feet and lips.

Some resources document its ability to lessen calcium deposits and hard swellings. For example, certain bony growths like bone spurs can soften and dissolve under its influence.

May help stiff, achy joints, such as with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Children and Calc Fluor:  Calc Fluor can also make a big difference in supporting the tissues of slow growing, late walking babies and young children.  Used for delayed dentition and growing pains in children.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Some of the content in this cell salt blog was originally written by Erika Correnti, ND, and posted on the Healthy Goods blog in July 2010.

 References: 
1.  Chapman, J.B. The Biochemic Handbook: How to Get Well and Keep Fit With Biochemic Tissue Salts. St. Louis: Formur, 1994.

2.  Chapman, J.B. Dr. Schuessler's Biochemistry. London: New Era Labs, 1973.

3.  King, S. www.homeopathy-help.net. 2004-2008.

4.  Saul, A.  Fire Your Doctor. Laguna Beach: Basic Health, 2005.

5.  Weintraub, Skye. Natural Healing with Cell Salts.  Pleasant Grove: Woodland, 1999.

What Is Lavender Oil?

A plant native to the Mediterranean, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis) gets its fragrance from the essential oil found inside its flowers. In aromatherapy, lavender essential oil is often used for its many healing properties.

The Benefits of Lavender Oil

Although lavender essential oil has yet to be extensively studied in clinical trials, research suggests that lavender-based aromatherapy may help with these conditions:

1)  Anxiety

Thought to help calm the nervous system, lavender helped ease anxiety among a group of adults shown anxiety-provoking film clips in a 2009 study. According to the study's authors, lavender appears to act as an anti-anxiety agent under conditions of low anxiety, but may not be as useful in conditions of high anxiety.

Learn how to make a relaxing blend of essential oil.

2)  Insomnia

Often touted as a natural sleep aid, lavender may have sedative effects. In a small study published in 2005, a group of people with insomnia reported improvements in sleep after four weeks using lavender (with the help of an aromatherapy vaporizer) at bedtime. Study results showed that women and younger volunteers with a milder insomnia improved more than others.

3)  Alopecia Areata

In a study of 86 people with alopecia areata (a disorder that causes the rapid onset of round patches of baldness), researchers found that 44 percent of those who massaged lavender essential oil (along with oils of thyme, rosemary, cedarwood, jojoba, and grapeseed) into their scalp daily had an improvement in their condition after seven months.

How to Use Lavender Oil

Often incorporated into massage, lavender essential oil can also be applied directly to the skin, added to baths, or inhaled (typically after sprinkling a few drops of the oil onto a cloth or tissue, or by using an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer).

Lavender essential oil is sold at many health-food stores and may also be found at spas. Although dried lavender is available in tea form, lavender essential oil should not be taken internally without the supervision of a health professional.

Learn more about using essential oils safely.

Lavender Oil Side Effects

Although lavender essential oil is generally considered safe, it may cause irritation when applied to the skin or aggravate drowsiness for people taking sedative medications.

A small study published in 2007 also showed that lavender oils in personal-care products may cause gynecomastia (breast development in a male) in boys.

Article courtesy of AltMedicine/About.com, found with sources here.

So you are considering buying cell salts or you bought them and are asking yourself "now what?"  Hopefully this information will steer you in the right direction!

Tablets vs. Liquid:  Cell salts are minerals combined within a matrix of lactose (milk sugar).  The lactose content is relatively small and for most people with lactose intolerance, it would take ingesting 25 to 30 tablets at a time to cause a flare up.  However, if you want to avoid the lactose, you’re in luck…you can use the liquid form of cell salts.  It’s the same cell salts but in an alcohol solution with no lactose.  The alcohol acts as a preservative and creates the solution necessary to keep the cell salt in liquid form.

The medicine is infused throughout the tablet and is quick dissolving and very digestible.  Cell salts are safe to use with other supplements or medications as there are no known contraindications.  

Here are the two most common methods for taking your cell salts.  You choose what suits you.

Option 1:  Dry Method, In Mouth

Dissolve the cell salts under your tongue.  Let the pill dissolve or suck on it, but do not chew.  By putting the cell salts under your tongue, it bypasses the digestive juices in your stomach and goes directly into your bloodstream.  The cells recognize this form as useable and immediately suck it into the cellular membrane.  Once enough of the cell salts have been accepted and the body is balanced, an intake of more cell salts will not do any harm and will be excreted from the system.

Do not eat, drink, or brush your teeth 15 minutes before and after taking the cell salts.  Cell salts work best when taken in a “clean” mouth.

Follow the instruction on the bottle regarding dosage. 

Typical suggested use for the cell salts are the following (in tablet): 

• Adults and Children 7-12 years old:  4 tablets
• Children 2-6 years old:  2 tablets  

Dissolve under tongue 3 times a day.  Use more frequently (every 15 minutes for up to 8 doses) with acute conditions.

Option 2:  Wet Method, Drinking

Cell salts can also be added to your water.  Mix 25 tablets in 1 Liter of pure, filtered water and drink this throughout the day. You can mix your individual cell salt or mix your combination of cell salts in the liter of water.  An advantage to the wet method is obtaining the benefit of the cell salt all day long while hydrating yourself.  One disadvantage to the wet method is the cell salts take longer to be absorbed because they enter the stomach before being absorbed (vs. under the tongue).

How long do I take cell salts?

Stop on improvement; however, it will not harm you if you continue taking them.  Take them less often if there is moderate improvement, and stop taking them when there is significant improvement.

Repeat as needed:  repeat the same remedy if it helped but then the symptoms return—starting and stopping as needed until completely better.

Stop the remedy:  if it clearly isn’t working, select another cell salt or seek the advice of a professional homeopath.

For more information about cell salts, consider reading my previous blog, "What are Cell Salts???"  Go here to view the entire cell salt collection.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  http://catalog.proemags.com/publication/b1ecfe2a#/b1ecfe2a/1

Great question!  Before I answer, I would like to let you know today marks the beginning of a series of blogs about cell salts.  My hope is you learn enough about cell salts to make informed decisions if you decide to utilize them.  Enjoy learning more about this interesting topic!

Cell salts are made from the twelve minerals essential to your body's functions.  They include forms of calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and silica which work at the cellular level.  There are 12 individual cell salts and each is geared toward healing specific emotional and physical symptoms and ailments.  Very cool, right?!  Another great thing about cell salts is they are natural and considered homeopathic.  What is homeopathy?  It is a natural approach to medicine that stimulates the body’s curative responses so the body heals itself.  It has been proven effective for 200+ years!

Safety, Interactions, Age?  Homeopathic medicines are generally considered safe, generally lack side effects, and can be taken by nearly anyone at any time, from infants to the elderly, including people taking over-the-counter or prescription medications.  My 16 month old recently had a cough and congestion he wasn’t kicking on his own, so I gave him a combination of cell salts formulated for a baby and within a day he was better.  He was easily able to take the tablets since they dissolve literally in seconds.  He actually enjoyed them, asking me for more! 

Homeopathic Medicines are manufactured according to the standards set forth in the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States.

What conditions do cell salts treat?  Cell salts are used for many different conditions ranging from intestinal issues, arthritis, infections, and injuries to chronic diseases, emotional disorders, wakefulness, and low energy, and this is just the tip of the iceberg!

How to decipher the different cell salts?  Each one of the cell salts has distinct characteristics, and each one is responsble for certain functions in the body.  Let’s look at cell salt #6 with its keynote symptoms.  THE MOST COMMONLY USED ABBREVIATION is followed by its (traditional and chemical name).

KALI PHOS (Kali Phosphoricum; Potassium Phosphate)

• Mental/emotional symptoms predominate—nervous tension, extreme nervousness, moodiness
• Anxiety, brain fatigue, irritability, temper-tantrums, sleeplessness, dizziness, nervous asthma
• Feel as if, "I'm too tired to rest."
• Easily bleeding gums

This is just an example of what one cell salt can treat…there are 12 to choose from, along with Bioplasma, which is all 12 cell salts in one.

Where do I begin?  When deciding which cell salt to use, you have several options.  One option is taking one single cell salt, an option often used to treat individualized symptoms.  A second option is taking a combination of cell salts, often used more for treating multiple symptoms, or common ailments and conditions.  Your third option is taking Bioplasma, which is a combination of all 12 cell salts and is meant for overall cell support and maintenance.  Many people like to take Bioplasma along with a specific cell salt, depending on what they're treating.

What are the potency of cell salts?  Cell salts are in homeopathic doses meaning the mineral salt is diluted so many times it contains only a tiny, tiny amount of the original product.  Get this…in homeopathy, the more dilute the substance, the more powerful of an effect it has on the body.  Weird, huh?  Cell salts come in different potencies (strengths) with the most commonly used potency being 6X.  The "X" refers to the Roman numeral 10; 6X is one part in ten, repeated six times.  

If you know of any effective cell salt combinations, feel free to pass them along and share your experiences with others.

Bottom Line:  Cell salts are safe, natural, and effective.  It may take some experimenting to get the right combo.  Give them a try!

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Plants are getting serious attention as the source of effective therapies for depression and may help to alleviate problems of anxiety, stress, agitation and sleeplessness that accompany low moods. 

Promising remedies for mood disorders:

St. John’s wort:  Generally used for anxiety, mild to moderate depression, and seasonal affective disorder, St. John’s wort is an affordable antidepressant that some research suggests is as effective as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating mild to moderate clinical depression (5).  Most studies are short-term use of St. John’s wort (2).  Side effects, which are mild, include dizziness, headache, dry mouth, confusion and nausea.  Dosages range from 900 to 1,800 mg per day.  Caution:  St. John’s wort interacts with SSRI’s, anticoagulants, oral contraceptives and a number of other drugs (1, 5).  Just to be safe, do not take with ANY other medications.

Kava:  This mild sedative is made from roots of the kava kava tree.  Studies show it can relieve clinical anxiety, stress, insomnia and restlessness without causing drug dependency, and it has been suggested as a viable alternative to tranquilizers and sleeping pills (3).  Side effects are generally mild, and include fatigue, impaired reflexes, headache, stomach problems and tremor.  Serious liver problems, although rare, have also been reported.  Kava—which interacts with alcohol, sedatives, barbiturates and benzodiazepines—should be used with care, particularly among those with liver disease.  Dosage is 60 to 300 mg per day.

Valerian:  This mild tranquilizer and sedative is made from the root of the valerian plant.  It helps relieve anxiety, sleep problems, and restlessness.  Side effects are mild, and include headaches and possible morning drowsiness.  Valerian’s effects are compounded when used with barbiturates, sleeping pills, tranquilizers or sedatives.  Take it 30 minutes before bedtime as a tea made of 1 tsp. dried root steeped in 1 cup boiling water, or as one 600 mg capsule containing 0.8% valerenic acid (4). 

S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe):  A naturally occurring molecule present in all human cells.  People with depression have low levels of serum and cerebral spinal fluid SAMe, and supplementation raises levels of SAMe, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters in the brain.  SAMe is associated with a significant improvement in depression.  Although it's one of the more expensive supplements, it remains popular as a remedy for depression.  Typical daily dose are 800-1,600mg (2, 5).  Avoid if you suffer from bipolar.

Nutrition for Depression:  The goal is to eat optimal amounts of essential nutrients while avoiding or minimizing intake of toxic substances. 

Here are some important Nutrition Tips:

--Promote stable blood sugar by eating foods with a low glycemic index such as proteins, complex carbohydrates, and other high fiber foods.

--Always eat breakfast and include protein to promote stable blood sugar throughout the day.

--Drink plenty of pure, filtered water.

--Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, beans & legumes, whole grains, and fish.

--If you eat dairy and meat, choose organic, locally raised products whenever possible.  

--Minimize the use of processed foods.

--Avoid sweetened beverages, processed foods, fatty foods, fried foods and junk food (6-9).

Before proceeding, caution is in order.  Botanicals are Drugs, too!

Many consumers view herbal supplements as “natural” and therefore harmless, but experts warn this is far from true.  Botanical remedies contain a variety of chemical ingredients that can cause unwanted side effects.  Just as with manufactured drugs, it is possible to overdose on herbal supplements.  They may also aggravate existing health problems or interact negatively with other drugs you are taking.  The long-term safety of many remedies is unknown and herbal supplements typically aren’t safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

More investigating needs to be done to learn who responds to botanicals, how effective and safe they are, and potential toxic reactions and interactions with other drugs.  For this reason, I do not recommend combining any botanicals or herbs with prescription anti-depressants! Use natural remedies at their recommended doses, and always talk to your health care provider before introducing a new supplement.

Bottom Line:  If you haven't noticed, depression is hard to sort out.  Please do not try to on your own.  Talk to your health care provider about your interest in trying a natural remedy and start slowly.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Rahimi R, Abdollahi M.  An update on the ability of St. John’s wort ot affect the metabolism of other drugs.  Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol.  2012 Jun;8(6):691-708.

2.  Nahas R.  Complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of major depressive disorder.  Canadian Family Physician.  2011 Jun;57(6):659-663.

3.  Lakhan S, Vieira K.  Nutritional and herbal supplements for anxiety and anxiety-related disorders: systematic review.  Nutr J. 2010;9:42

4.  Donath F, et al.  Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality.  Pharmacopsychiatry.  2000 Mar;33(2):47-53. 

5.  Kemper K.  CAM Therapies to Promote Healthy Moods.  Pediatr Clin North Am.  2007 Dec: 54(6): 901-x. 

6.  Ludwig DS. Clinical update: the low-glycaemic-index diet. Lancet. 2007 Mar 17;369(9565):890–892. 

7.  Kleinman RE, Hall S, Green H, et al. Diet, breakfast, and academic performance in children. Ann Nutr Metab. 2002;46 (Suppl 1):24–30.   

8.  Fulkerson JA, Sherwood NE, Perry CL, Neumark-Sztainer D, Story M. Depressive symptoms and adolescent eating and health behaviors: a multifaceted view in a population-based sample.  Prev Med. 2004 Jun;38(6):865–875.  

9.  Allgower A, Wardle J, Steptoe A.  Depressive symptoms, social support, and personal health behaviors in young men and women. Health Psychol. 2001 May;20(3):223–227. 

I live in the great Northwest, and as beautiful as it is, it also comes with fairly long, chilly winters meaning less frequent sun exposure to my skin.  Considering the majority of my pregnancy has taken place through these winter months, I have made a conscious effort to get enough Vitamin D.  Also known as the "Sunshine Vitamin,” your body converts sunlight into vitamin D after it hits unprotected skin. 

Why is this important?  Because vitamin D supports normal fetal growth during pregnancy, including bone, neurologic, and immune system development.  Other new, interesting information found in a recent study published in the journal Pediatrics suggests if a woman has low vitamin D levels during pregnancy, her baby may have an increased risk of getting eczema through the first year of life (1). 

Also, low maternal vitamin D levels (<40 ng/mL) during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, infection, preterm birth and a baby born small-for-gestational age (2).

Here are some tips to ensure you and your baby are receiving adequate amounts of vitamin D.

Are you at risk for vitamin D deficiency?  Women at risk are those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, have darker pigmented skin, have limited sun exposure, and a body mass index >30 (3).

Vitamin D Recommendations:  The recommendation for Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is controversial and varies across the board, depending on what source you’re reading.  This makes it very difficult to know how much vitamin D is necessary to support a healthy body.  Best bet is to talk to your doctor.

Here are vitamin D recommendations from a few health agencies willing to even commit to providing a number, and as you can see, the recommendations are extremely different!

• Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board:  600 IU for everyone up to age 70 (4)
• Vitamin D council:  6,000 IU for pregnant and lactating women (5)
• GrassrootsHealth:  4,000 IU for pregnant women after 12 weeks gestation (6)

How should I take my vitamin D?  Vitamin D remains effective if taken any time of the day, with or without food.  It is preferred to take your vitamin D on a daily basis rather than a huge amount once per week, especially if breastfeeding.  This avoids large peaks, followed by troughs, when your baby drinks breastmilk.

Mixing sun exposure and vitamin D supplementation:  If you’re lucky enough to live in a sunny place this time of year, it is okay to use both sun exposure and intermittent supplementation to receive your vitamin D.  The solution:  simply do not take your vitamin D supplement on the days when you receive adequate sun exposure.  Studies suggest 5–30 minutes of sun exposure midday, at least twice a week to the face, arms, legs, or back without sunscreen usually lead to sufficient vitamin D levels for most people (4).

What type of vitamin D do I take?  Vitamin D₃—the label will say cholecalciferol, which is the most bioavailable form of vitamin D and is equivalent to the vitamin D formed in our skin from ultraviolet B light. 

Don’t rely solely on prenatal vitamins:  According to Mayo Clinic, most prenatal vitamins do not include optimal amounts of vitamin D.  Talk to your doctor about other sources of vitamin D to boost your levels.

Bottom Line:  Further studies are required to determine the optimal dose of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.  For now, ensure you’re getting at least the minimum daily recommendation of 600 IU.  Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Jones AP, Palmer D, Zhang G, Prescott SL.  Cord blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and allergic disease during infancy.  Pediatrics.  2012 Nov;130(5):e1128-35.

2.  Wei SQ, Qi HP, Luo ZC, Fraser WD.  Maternal Vitamin D Status and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.  J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2013 Jan 13.  

3.  Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin D. Office of Dietary Supplements.  

4.  Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board.  Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2010.

5.  Vitamin D Supplementation.  Vitamin D Council. 

6.  Hollis BW, Johnson D, Hulsey T, et al.  Vitamin D Supplementation During Pregnancy:  Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial of Safety and Effectiveness.  J of Bone and Mineral Research.  Vol 26, No. 10, Oct. 2011:2341-2357.  www.grassrootshealth.net

There’s nothing worse than lying down in your cozy bed anticipating some much needed shut-eye after a busy day, and low and behold you’re up for hours, tossing and turning.  Grrrrr!  It’s one thing for this to happen every now and again, but what if this happens to you night after night?  Not sleeping is a huge problem for some.  Do not fret. Here are some suggestions to consider.  I urge you to investigate each one to see what might be right for you.   

--Calms Forte:  For sleeplessness, take 1 to 3 tablets with water ½-1 hour before sleeping.  Do not drink or eat anything fifteen minutes before and after taking the tablets.  Temporarily relieves the symptoms of simple nervous tension and sleeplessness.  Here is great information about this Hyland’s product: http://www.hylands.com/products/calmsforte.php

--Ashwagandha:  2 capsules in morning and 2 capsules at night, every day.  Always take one before bed.  Effective for improving sleep, and decreasing and moderating stress.  It works in subtle ways by calming you down and taking the edge off.  How does it do this?  It’s a very complex mechanism, but in a nutshell, Ashwagandha contains chemicals that might help calm the brain (1).  If you do take Ashwagandha, you can reduce down to 1 per day as a maintenance dose once the “edge” is gone.  Ashwagandha needs time to build up and is typically taken long term. 

Side note:  If you take thyroid medicine, Ashwagandha is shown to increase T4 levels, so please talk to your health care provider before taking.  Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding.

--Magnesium:  Magnesium deficiency is highly common.  Magnesium deficiency also causes improper sleep and difficulty falling asleep (2, 3).  It should not keep you awake. It will help calm you down.  If you have pretty significant stress and anxiety and are unable to sleep well and deeply at night, take 1-2 capsules with breakfast and 1-2 capsules before bed.  If you have some stress, reduce dosage to 1 capsule per day. 

Magnesium Food Sources include seeds, legumes (beans, lentils, soybeans), nuts, and greens such as kale and swiss chard.

The best tolerated forms of magnesium are chelates, which means they are magnesium bonded to an amino acid.  Other generally well-tolerated forms include magnesium citrate and aspartate; however, these forms can irritate the digestive system of sensitive individuals. The form of magnesium recommended to avoid is magnesium oxide; it is poorly absorbed and altogether a waste of money.

--Relaxin is a good choice for aiding sleep.  You may try taking 1 soft gel capsule 30 minutes before bedtime.  If one capsule isn't working, you may take two.

Bottom Line:  Sleep is crucial and priceless!  Find a way to get yours!  

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  Please consult your healt care provider before starting any supplement program.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healty Goods

References:

1.  Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S.  Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review.  Altern Med Rev. 2000 Aug;5(4):334-46.   

2.  Held K, Antonijevic IA, Künzel H, Uhr M, Wetter TC, Golly IC, Steiger A, Murck H.  Oral Mg(2+) supplementation reverses age-related neuroendocrine and sleep EEG changes in humans.  Pharmacopsychiatry.  2002 Jul;35(4):135-43.

3.  Nielsen FH, Johnson LK, Zeng H. Magnesium supplementation improves indicators of low magnesium status and inflammatory stress in adults older than 51 years with poor quality sleep. Magnes Res. 2010 Dec 1;23(4):158-68.

Listen up all you pregnant and breastfeeding moms who suffer from allergies, eczema, hay fever, or allergy-related asthma…a recent study shows if mom takes specific probiotics while pregnant and breastfeeding, baby’s risk of developing eczema during the first 24 months of life is significantly reduced.  That's great news!  There are literally hundreds of strains of probiotics and each have various functions.  The two strains shown effective in this particular study are Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum (1).  The good news is, this is not the first study to show a relationship between mom taking probiotics during pregnancy and baby’s reduced risk of allergy (2, 3).

Here’s how probiotics works:  Your gut is home to billions of bacteria, good and bad.  Probiotics colonize the intestines with good bacteria and ultimately keep the bad bacteria from multiplying.  When harmful bacteria take over, it is associated with a weakened immune response, possibly leading to the development of allergic reactions, autoimmune disorders (ie: ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease), and infections (ie: diarrhea, H. pylori, skin infections), to name a few. 

Constipation:  Need another reason to consider adding probiotics to your pregnancy diet?  Perhaps no group has as many digestive issues as pregnant women!  Whether it's heartburn, constipation, cramping, or diarrhea, pregnancy comes with a host of digestive ailments.  No fun at all!  Probiotics promote healthy gut function, which aids in relieving some of these very common problems pregnant women face.  Probiotics shown to improve constipation include:  Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (4).

What foods contain probiotics?  Probiotics are most often found in fermented foods. The most common sources include yogurt and yogurt drinks, kefir (a fermented milk drink), acidophilus milk, cheese, and sour cream.  Miso, tempeh, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha drink, and some juices and soy beverages may also contain probiotics.

How to take a probiotic supplement:  Supplements don't provide the same nutrition whole foods can offer, but they can be convenient.  I personally have had excellent experience with this probiotic, and it contains all probiotic strains important for reducing eczema in infants and relieving constipation.  Always take your probiotic about 5-10 minutes after dinner and refrigerate your probiotic.

Taking probiotics while pregnant is quite safe (5); however, it is still important for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consult with their physician before using a probiotic supplements.

Does anyone have anything to share regarding probiotic use during pregnancy?

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Rautava S, Kainonen E, Salminen S, Isolauri E.  Maternal probiotic supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding reduces the risk of eczema in the infant.  J Allergy and Clinical Immunology.  2012 Dec;130,(6):1355-1360. Dec. 2012.

2.  Pelucchi C, Chatenoud L, et al.  Probiotics supplementation during pregnancy or infancy for the prevention of atopic dermatitis:  a meta-analysis.  Epidemiology.  2012 May;23(3):402-414.

3.  Sampo J, at al.  Prenatal probiotic administration can influence Bifidobacterium microbiota development in infants at high risk of allergy.  J of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.  2009 Feb;123(2):499-501.e8.

4.  Milliana I, Tabbers M, et al.  Is a multispecies probiotic mixture effective in constipation during pregnancy?  ‘A pilot study.’  Nutrition Journal.  2012 Oct; 11:80 

5.  Elias J, Bozzo P, Einarson A.  Are probiotics safe for use during pregnancy and lactation?  Canadian Family Physician. March 2011 vol. 57 no. 3:299-301.

Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse—there are so many different takes on cleanses.  What gives? 

A cleanse can actually take many forms.  Simply cutting out sugar, processed food, and junk food, all associated with inflammation, can constitute a cleanse.  For some, ditching alcohol can be a cleanse and for others, removing caffeine can be a cleanse.  You may find extreme anti-inflammatory benefits by getting rid of common allergens, such as wheat, dairy, eggs, and corn, because those create tremendous inflammation.  There are also a variety of botanicals that can aid the body in detoxification.  For example, the herb milk thistle can help your body’s detox organ, the liver, function better.

Whether you’re juice fasting, lightening the sugar or fat load, or not making any dietary changes, there are herbs that can assist your body to work better and feel better.  Laurie Steelsmith, ND, gives the lowdown:

“If you think about all the chemicals you are inadvertently exposed to each day, it can get overwhelming. The good news is it is easy to give your body a break:  first, minimize exposure; and second, give it a boost and clean it out with herbs, supplements and other means you can incorporate into your daily life,” Steelsmith says.

If you want to help your body cleanse, then she suggests paying special attention to your liver, lungs, skin, kidney and intestinal health.  

Here are some tips I like because they aren't extreme and you don’t have to live on juice alone or just fruits and vegetables to detox, which can actually do more harm than good. 

5 tips for a healthy cleanse

1. Use turmeric in your diet to enhance liver health—the active component in turmeric is curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory.  It protects the liver from toxins as well, and can break down cancer-causing agents in the liver.  Curcumin also helps the liver to make bile—the liver’s way of removing sludge and toxins from the body.  You can take curcumin as a supplement.  Steelsmith gives her patients 500 mg three times a day during a cleanse.

2. To enhance kidney function, not only drink a lot of water (at least half your body weight in ounces), but drink plenty of ginger tea  to improve overall circulation and build the energy, or qi, of your kidneys.

3. Milk thistle  is great for detoxification because in addition to enhancing your liver’s ability to break down toxins, it also helps protect your liver from toxins in the process.  Steelsmith recommends patients take a milk thistle supplement of 400 mg a day, standardized to contain 70–80% silymarin.

4. To improve elimination through the skin, do skin brushing or loofah scrubbing before or in the shower.  Be sure to always brush toward your heart because this will move your lymph back to where it needs to go to enhance detoxification.  Topically, you can apply 3 drops of essential oil of cedar wood, diluted in 1 tbsp. of jojoba oil, after your scrubbing. This will help move fluids through your body and in turn will also support your kidneys’ ability to eliminate toxins.  Note that on an emotional level, cedar wood is associated with strengthening will power.

5. To increase elimination through your intestines, eat a lot of fiber.  Add chia seeds  to your smoothie, or just mix 2 tbsp. in 8 ounces of water and drink twice a day. This will act as a broom and whisk toxins out through your colon.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Article courtesy of NewHope360.com's Natural Vitality, found here.

I made this drink today...delish!  Check out my UPDATE at the end of the blog.

Make the breakfast drink Dr. Oz swears by!  This “green drink” is high in fiber, low in calories, and rich in vitamins—an excellent way to jumpstart your mornings!!  Give it to you kids too!

Ingredients:
2 cups spinach

1/2 cucumber

1/4 head of celery (base and top leaves removed)

1/2 bunch parsley

1 bunch mint

3 carrots

2 apples

1/4 orange

1/4 lime

1/4 lemon

1/4 pineapple (analysis based off 1 c. pineapple chunks)

Directions: 

Combine all ingredients in a blender.  This makes approximately 28-30 ounces, or 3-4 servings.

The green drink has a strong taste and if you are used to drinking sweet drinks (ie: soda, sweet tea), the taste will take some getting used to.  If needed, Dr. Oz suggests adding other items at first to sweeten the green drink to your taste, such as a 2^nd cucumber, another raw carrot, a little 100% fruit juice, a banana or an extra orange.

If you prefer to make a smaller amount, reduce all of the ingredients proportionally.  I recommend drinking it fresh rather than storing it in the refrigerator for later.

Nutrition Facts: 

I plugged this recipe into my nifty nutrition analysis program (NutriBase 9 Pro Edition), and this drink is packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B-6, Folate, Manganese, Iron, and Calcium.  Please note, this analysis is based off the entire recipe:

YUM!  Enjoy!

UPDATE:  I was finally able to try this lovely green drink Dr. Oz raves about, and I wanted to give you an update about my experience.  I was pleasantly surprised how tasty it was!  Even my 16 month old liked it!  I followed the recipe pretty closely, with the exception of mint because my grocery store didn’t have it.  Here are some tips I gathered after making this drink:

Tip #1:  In my opinion, the flavors that stood out the most were the celery, parsley, and lime.  Don’t forget the lime!  I don’t think it would taste as good without the lime.  In fact, I squeezed the juice of 1 small lime, which probably added more juice than the amount ¼ lime would have.

Tip #2:  When you add everything to your blender, I suggest adding the juicier ingredients first—the pineapple, orange, lemon and lime.  I think everything will blend easier this way.  It would also help to cut all the pieces into 1" portions.

Tip #3:  I used a Vitamix blender and was able to blend it so the texture was extremely smooth.  The texture became especially smooth after I added some ice to the mixture.  It was really good cold, so adding ice towards the end of the blending process is something I would recommend. 

Tip #4:  This batch made about 40 ounces, so my husband and I split it, and we gave a little to our son.  It was filling and if you’re not going to drink 40 ounces, I suggest splitting the recipe in half.  As I mentioned earlier, I don’t think I would want to drink it after it sat in the refrigerator for a few hours. 

Tip #5:  I peeled the outside of the carrots, cored the apples, used 1 clementine rather than ¼ orange, and squeezed the juice of one small lime adding more lime flavor, which I personally loved.

Tip #6:  If you prefer to boost the protein content, add a scoop of protein powder.  I think either a vanilla flavor or no flavor powder would taste best.

I will definitely make this drink again and can see myself drinking it frequently throughout the week.  It would be a great way to start the day or a yummy mid-morning or afternoon snack.

Just a side note, this drink will keep the bowels flowing.  Cheers!

If you have any other tips to add from your experience with this recipe, let’s hear them!

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Healthy Fats galore!  35 weeks into this pregnancy and the weight piling on, fat is probably the last word I want to hear right now!  But, what is nice to hear is this…pregnancy is not a time to skimp on eating healthy fats.  I’m sure you’ve heard some fats are better than others, so which fats do you need during pregnancy?  Omega-3’s!  Omega-3’s are considered essential fatty acids because you have to acquire them from food or supplements.  Your body won’t make them or anything fancy like that.  One omega-3 you may have heard of is DHA (known in the science world as docosahexaenoic acid).  DHA is especially important during pregnancy because it is absolutely vital for that unborn baby’s brain and eye development, nervous system, and immune system (1, 2, 3).  Along with benefits to baby, a pregnant mom consuming omega-3’s reduces her risk of pre-term labor, pre-eclampsia, and possibly post-partum depression (2, 3). 

Food Sources:  Fish is the most likely source of omega-3's; however, is there a dark side to the fish story???  Yes there is, and I personally LOVE fish, so this really bums me out!  Here’s the scoop…large, ocean-faring fish, and especially predator types, contain high levels of mercury, a distinctly baby-unfriendly toxin.  Mercury easily crosses the placenta and accumulates in the fetus at even higher concentrations than in mothers (4-7).  Other fish, especially those that frequent polluted lakes and rivers, are laden with PCBs, a chemical you definitely don't want to feed a fetus.  To play it safe, keep all those fish off your plate while pregnant and breastfeeding.  And to play it extra safe, consider these guidelines (8):

          Avoid:  Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, ahi tuna, tilefish, orange roughy, and fish from contaminated waters

          Limit to six ounces per week:  Canned (or packaged) albacore tuna, tuna steaks, grouper, sea bass, and freshwater fish caught by family and friends

          Safely eat 12 ounces per week:  Wild salmon, shrimp, crab, sardines, freshwater trout, tilapia, canned (or packaged) light tuna, pollock, and catfish

Not a big fish lover?  Try DHA-rich eggs, sometimes called omega-3 eggs.  They’re laid by chickens on a DHA-supplemented diet— it’ll say so on the package.  Regular egg yolks contain a small amount of DHA too.  Walnuts, flax seed, hemp seed, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, kale, collard greens, and green algae are plant based sources of omega-3 fatty acids.  Unfortunately, it is well-known only a small amount of the plant based omega-3 is actually converted to DHA in our bodies. 

Choosing a supplement:  Another easy and consistent way to get enough DHA is taking a quality fish oil supplement.  Some prenatal vitamins have DHA in them, but more than likely, there isn’t enough.  It really is worth the additional cost of purchasing a high quality fish oil supplement to take alongside your prenatal vitamin.  When you’re choosing a fish oil supplement, definitely examine the nutrition label to know specifically how much DHA you are getting.  Get this… a 1000 mg fish oil soft gel refers only to the size of the soft gel, not the level of DHA.  Very misleading!  Quality fish oil is safe to take because toxins and heavy metals can be virtually eliminated during the manufacturing and processing of the fish oil.  Remember to always refrigerate your fish oil.

The anticipated question...How Much?  For pregnant and breastfeeding women, a minimum of 300 mg DHA daily (9).

Bottom Line:  Optimize you and your baby’s health by including fish in your diet and consider taking an omega-3 supplement, specifically one with at least 300 mg DHA.   

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Dunstan J.A., Mitoulas L.R., Dixon G., Doherty D.A., Hartmann P.E., Simmer K., Prescott S.L. The effects of fish oil supplementation in pregnancy on breast milk fatty acid composition over the course of lactation: A randomised controlled trial.  Pediatr. Res. 2007;62:689–694.   

2.  Morse NL.  Benefits of Docosahexaenoic Acid, Folic Acid, Vitamin D and Iodine on Fetal and Infant Brain Development and Function Following Maternal Supplementation during Pregnancy and Lactation.  Nutrients.  2012 July; 4(7):799-840. 

3.  Jensen CL.  Effects of n-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and lactation.  Am J Clin Nutr.  2006 June; 83:S1452-1457S. 

4. Kjellström T, Kennedy P, Wallis S, Stewart A, Friberg L, Lind B, et al.  Physical and mental development of children with prenatal exposure to mercury from fish. Stage 1. Preliminary tests at age 6 [Report 3642].  Stockholm, Sweden: National Swedish Environmental Protection Board; 1989.

5. Chang LW, Reuhl KR, Spyker JM. Ultra structural study of the latent effects of methyl mercury on the nervous system after prenatal expo-sures. Environ Res 1997;13:171–85.

6. Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risk to Humans. Mercury and Mercury Compounds. Monographs, Vol. 58. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer; 1994.

7. Methylmercury. Environmental Health Criteria, No. 101. Geneva: World Health Organization; 1990

8.  http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/outreach/advice_index.cfm

9.  Simopoulos AP, Leaf A, Salem N. Conference report: workshop on the essentiality of and recommended dietary intakes for omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.  J Am Coll Nutr 1999;18:487–9.

What's up with my strong cravings for all things dairy right now??  Well, I did some investigating and check this out:

Did you know, the amount of calcium your intestines absorb during pregnancy doubles?!   

Another fun fact…about 80% of the calcium present in the baby’s skeleton at the end of pregnancy crossed the placenta during the third trimester  and is mostly derived from the calcium in mom’s diet during pregnancy.  The calcium mom eats seems to be the main way our bodies adapt to meet those high calcium demands during pregnancy (1).  Amazing!  Maybe that explains the cravings and my baby needs the calcium with only 6 weeks left to grow.

How much do I need?  When pregnant, you need 1,000 mg calcium per day  and pregnant teenagers need 1,300 mg calcium per day  (4).  A prenatal supplement isn’t going to provide a lot of calcium, and if needed, additional calcium can be supplemented alongside the prenatal supplement, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.  Calcium can be obtained from foods naturally rich in calcium, fortified foods and beverages, supplements, or a combination of all. 

A comparison of calcium-containing foods per serving relative to milk is shown here:

*References 2 and 3.

Choosing your Calcium supplement:   First things first, please examine the nutrition label.  You are looking for the amount of "elemental calcium,” not the milligrams or grams of calcium compound.  For example, a 600 mg calcium tablet can actually contain only 150 mg of elemental calcium.  Most high-quality manufacturers will specify on the label the milligram content of the compound and also the milligram content of "elemental calcium."  If the label does not present this information, it would be best to avoid that product.

Getting the most out of your Calcium supplement:

1.  Look for the highly absorbable forms of calcium…calcium citrate and calcium citrate-malate.

2.  The time you take your calcium is important because calcium taken with a meal  is usually better absorbed than calcium taken without a meal (6). 

3.  Taking a dose of calcium at bedtime  may also be favorable because it seems to inhibit the removal of calcium from bone during the night (7).

4.  Calcium combined with Vitamin D increases calcium absorption, so vitamin D added to your calcium supplement is a good thing.

5.  I personally like this chewable calcium tablet by Seeking Health.  It's a highly absorbable form for calcium, the size is a thin wafer (like a Tums) so easy to chew, and surprisingly palatable.

One last perk about Calcium:  Much research shows calcium supplementation during pregnancy decreases the severity of complications brought on by preeclampsia  and also decreases your risk of delivering a premature baby (8, 9), especially in teenagers.

Bottom Line:  Get your calcium from your diet whenever possible, and if you need additional calcium, look for a highly absorbable form and spread your dosage throughout the day.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Cross NA, Hillman LS, Allen SH, Krause GF, Vieira NE. Calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism during pregnancy, lactation, and postweaning: a longitudinal study. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:514–23.  

2.  Pennington JAT. Bowes and Church’s food values of portions commonly used. 15th ed. New York: Harper & Row, 1989.

3.  US Department of Agriculture. Composition of foods: vegetables and vegetable products. Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office, 1989. (Agriculture Handbook no. 8-11)

4.  Institute of Medicine. Dietary reference intakes for calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D, and fluoride. Washington, DC:  National Academy Press, 1997.

5.  Wilkinson R. Absorption of calcium, phosphate and magnesium. In:  Nordin BEC, ed. Calcium, phosphate and magnesium metabolism.  New York: Churchill Livingstone, 1976:36-1 12.

6.  Heaney RP, Smith KT, Recker RR, Hinders SM. Meal effects on calcium absorption. Am I Clin Nutr 1989:49:372-6.

7.  Blumsohn A, Al-Dehaimi AW, Hemngton K, Shao P. Eyre DR.  Eastell R.  Effect of timing of calcium supplementation on the circadian rhythm of bone collagen degradation.  Bone Miner Res 1993;8(suppl):S 158(abstr).

8.  Imdad A, Bhutta ZA.  Effects of calcium supplementation during pregnancy on maternal, fetal and birth outcomes.  Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol.  2012 Jul;26 Suppl 1:138-52.

9.  Villar J et al.  World Health Organization randomized trial of calcium supplementation among low calcium intake pregnant women.  Am J Obstet Gynecol.  2006 Mar; 194(3):639-49.  

 

Question:  I've always struggled with bad breath.  Could a tongue scraper help?

Answer:

Tongue scrapers, which are available in most drugstores in various shapes and sizes, have been touted as a way to reduce or eliminate bad breath (halitosis).  You put the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue and bring it forward along your tongue, repeating as often as needed.

Research on the effectiveness of tongue scrapers is limited.  What has been published so far describes tongue scraping as temporarily effective for bad breath, but there's not enough evidence using a tongue scraper helps with ongoing (chronic) halitosis.  However, if you have a coated tongue, which can occur from an overgrowth of bacteria, tongue scraping may be helpful.  For instance, a coated tongue can be caused by smoking, dry mouth, poor oral hygiene or medication use.

Although there's no harm in trying a tongue scraper to treat bad breath, it's just as important to practice good dental hygiene overall:

• Brush your teeth and tongue after you eat.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth, a cause of bad breath.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

Consider this:  lactose intolerance can lead to bad breath.  Try adding these lactose drops to anything you eat which contains dairy, even if in small amounts (ie: creamer in coffee).

An improper diet can lead to stomach problems and a deficiency in good intestinal flora which can cause bad breath.  Consider taking a probiotic to increase good bacteria in your gut, promote healthy digestion, and improve your immune system.   

If bad breath continues, consult your dentist.  He or she can identify the cause and help develop a treatment plan.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

A portion of this article courtesy of Mayo Clinic’s Alan Carr, D.M.D.

I’m pregnant with baby #2, due in March!  For the past 8 months, I’ve been devoted to giving this baby the best start to life.

Let’s talk Prenatal Supplements:  It all starts with a quality prenatal supplement.  Even with the most solid diet, there are a handful of nutrients especially important during pregnancy.  All pregnant women need more iron and folic acid.  There are so many prenatal vitamins on the market, how do you go about choosing a quality prenatal supplement?  Choose a prenatal vitamin that includes only the most active or absorbable forms of nutrients.  For example, folic acid as 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate or folinic acid, vitamin B6 as Pyridoxal 5’-Phosphate, and vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin. 

Folic Acid Side Note:  Did you know all women of child-bearing age are strongly encouraged to take 400 mcg of folic acid every day, even if not planning or trying to conceive?  This is because folic acid is critical for preventing neural tube defects and folic acid works only if taken before getting pregnant and during the first month of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.  Once pregnant, folic acid needs increase to 800 mcg per day.  Again, look for the 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate or folinic acid form of folic acid.

Iron Tidbits:  Iron needs jump to 30 mg per day when pregnant.  There are so many different forms of iron—it can be quite confusing.  Ferrous iron is much better absorbed than Ferric iron, and there are different forms of ferrous iron…some are better than others.  Ferrous fumarate is a good form, yet ferrous sulfate is the cheapest and constipates most people.  Iron citrate and iron picolinate are a bit more expensive but more easily absorbed and typically not constipating.  Milk, calcium and antacids should NOT be taken at the same time as iron supplements.  Wait at least two hours after eating these before taking your iron supplement.  On the other hand, vitamin C increases iron absorption.  Also, the amount of iron absorbed decreases with increasing doses.  For this reason, ideally take your iron supplement in two or three equally spaced doses.   

Choline for brain development:  An “extra” to consider in a prenatal supplement is choline, which plays an important role in reducing neural tube defects (1, 2) and is important in later stages of pregnancy when the memory center of baby’s brain is developing (3).  The adequate intake level established for pregnant women is 450 mg choline/day.  Choline is found in foods such as egg yolks, beef, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, wheat bran, wheat germ, nuts and beans.

Other Ingredients:  Examine the “other ingredients” list on the prenatal to find one manufactured without any additives, fillers, artificial colors, or artificial sweeteners commonly found in mainstream prenatal supplements.  Look for a supplement form in either liquid or vegetarian capsules.  Avoid tablets because they do not dissolve well in your stomach.

Simple Timing Tips:  Trust me on this one because it happened to me…take your prenatal 6+ hours before going to sleep or it may keep you awake.  Also, if one serving of your prenatal vitamin requires you to take more than one capsule, take them at different times throughout the day to achieve the maximum absorption.  For example, one serving of my prenatal supplement is 6 capsules, so I may take 3 capsules at breakfast and 3 at lunch or 2 at breakfast, 2 at mid-morning snack, and 2 at lunch. 

Don't overload on supplements:  More isn't better when it comes to vitamins.  If you’re interested in taking additional supplements or herbs, check with your doctor first, especially since some vitamin megadoses and herbs can be harmful when you're pregnant.

A nutrient-rich diet combined with a high quality prenatal supplement ensures the best start for your little one.  Stay tuned for more information about other important nutrients during pregnancy.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Shaw GM, Carmichael SL, Laurent C, Rasmussen SA.  Maternal nutrient intakes and risk of orofacial clefts. Epidemiology. 2006;17:285–91.

2.  Shaw GM, Carmichael SL, Yang W, Selvin S, Schaffer DM.  Periconceptional dietary intake of choline and betaine and neural tube defects in offspring. Am J Epidemiol. 2004;160:102–9.

3.  Wu BT, Dyer RA, King DJ, Richardson KJ, Innis SM.  Early second trimester maternal plasma choline and betaine are related to measures of early cognitive development in term infants.  PLoS One. 2012;7(8):e43448. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043448. 

Those winter blues setting in?  Are any foods natural mood boosters?  Yes!   Try eating like a Spaniard, an Italian or a Greek.  In a study of more than 11,000 people, those who stuck to a Mediterranean diet scored higher on markers of mental health than their counterparts who ate a more Western diet (1).  How to eat the Mediterranean way?  Pack your diet with fruits, veggies, beans, nuts, and whole grains.  Use olive oil instead of saturated fats like butter.  Eat fish more frequently than red meat, and for all you wine lovers, drinking about 1 cup of red wine daily is also a perk of the Mediterranean diet. 

Though researchers couldn’t pinpoint what exactly about the diet boosted participant’s mental health they suspect omega-3 fats (found in oily fish), B vitamins and folate contributed.

Two other “foods” with some mood boosting promise are the spice turmeric and green tea.  Turmeric contains a polyphenol called curcumin has been linked to a better mood (2).  In one animal study, curcumin worked as well on stress-induced mood changes as an antidepressant.  In fact, curcumin has many benefits.  Check out my blog about turmeric and curcumin. Similarly there’s a polyphenol in green tea—EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate)—that may alleviate stress and depression.  People who drank 4 or more cups of green tea daily, in an American Journal of Clinical Nutrition study (3), were 44% less likely to have depressive symptoms than those who drank just 1 cup a day (2 to 3 cups was also beneficial). 

Bottom Line:  Don’t disregard the old-school advice to exercise and stay social, but food matters too.  Cozy up with a mug of green tea, cook a delicious curry dish, and pack your refrigerator and pantry with all the fruits, veggies, beans, nuts, and whole grains you can.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Content courtesy of Eating Well magazine

References:

1.  Henriquez Sanchez, P et al.  Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and quality of life in the SUN Project.  Eur J Clin Nutr.  1012 Mar;66(3):360-8.

2.  Gomez-Pinilla, F, Nguyen, T.  Natural mood foods:  The action of polyphenols against psychiatric and cognitive disorders.  Nutr Neurosci.  2012 May;15(3):127-133. 

3.  Niu, K et al.  Am J Clin Nutr.  Green tea consumption is associated with depressive symptoms in the elderly.  2009 Dec;90(6):1615-22.  

Hi friends, I’m Kelly Harrington!  Welcome to the Healthy Goods blog.  I hope you find lots of useful and interesting nutrition and supplement information here.  My aim is to provide you with no-nonsense nutrition information that’s easy-to-read, easy-to-understand, and easy to put into practice.

On the Healthy Goods blog you'll read cool information about:

• utilizing food and specific nutrients to support health concerns
• how to get the most out of your supplements
• hot nutrition topics

Over the next few months, you may notice a trend in the blog topics as my life is about to become very crazy with baby boy #2 due in March, alongside my 17 month old son!  Yikes!  With that said, the past two years of my life have been consumed by pregnancy, breastfeeding, caring for an infant, and now back to more life as a pregnant person and mom.  When I found out I was pregnant with my first born, it’s as if something in my brain clicked and suddenly I became more conscious about things I never treated as an urgency in my non-mother life.  There’s so much to consider when, after all, a little guy is developing inside me and is hostage to all my decisions.

How do I eat??   Nutrition is always top of mind.  At the same time, even though I’m a registered dietitian, I pride myself in saying I am not the food police and I do have an open mind about food.  I also understand what I put into my body does matter, especially since I'm pregnant, SO…in my typical, day-to-day routine I tend to steer clear of enriched, refined foods, hydrogenated fats, saturated fats, sodium nitrates, monosodium glutamate (MSG), high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweetener, and minimize the amount of added sugars I eat.  These are changes I have slowly made over the past 10 years, and have become accustomed to over time, so it doesn’t seem as hard...it requires a conscious effort and reading the ingredients on labels.  With pregnancy, I started purchasing more organic and hormone free foods.  It is occasionally more expensive, but I decided it is worth it.  It’s amazing what motivates one’s self!  I even have the dirty (and clean) dozen fruit and veggie app on my phone which I refer to when I grocery shop.  It’s super handy…check it out at Environmental Working Group. 

What else??   I’ve also become obsessed with other things that effect my baby, such as what’s in the lotion and makeup I apply on my skin, what’s in the lip balm I put on my lips, and the type of plastic I eat and drink out of.  I only drink from BPA-free water bottles—I really like the stainless steel Klean Kanteens.  The bottles even come in a cute, child-size for my son.  I store leftovers in glass jars rather than plastic containers.  To understand my fanatical rational for all this, check out my blogs on Xenoestrogens, Part 1 and Part 2.  You’ll find some easy tips for cleaning up your lifestyle from these nasty toxins.

What’s to come?   I hope you find value in my pregnancy blogs over the next few months.  I will talk about prenatal supplements, calcium, fish and krill oils, probiotics, and other pregnancy and nutrition related topics.  If you have any special requests for topics related to pregnancy or postpartum, please let me know.  I am happy to talk about them!

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Why is Dark Chocolate Healthy?

Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables. These benefits are from flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, which can cause damage that leads to heart disease. Dark chocolate contains a large number of antioxidants (nearly 8 times the number found in strawberries). Flavonoids also help relax blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide, and balance certain hormones in the body.

Heart Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate:

Dark chocolate is good for your heart. A small bar of it everyday can help keep your heart and cardiovascular system running well. Two heart health benefits of dark chocolate are:

• Lower Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that consuming a small bar of dark chocolate everyday can reduce blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure.

• Lower Cholesterol: Dark chocolate has also been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) by up to 10 percent.

Other Benefits of Dark Chocolate:

• tastes good!
• stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure
• contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant
• contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants

Doesn't Chocolate Have a lot of Fat?

Here is some more good news -- some of the fats in chocolate do not impact your cholesterol. The fats in chocolate are 1/3 oleic acid, 1/3 stearic acid and 1/3 palmitic acid:

• Oleic Acid is a healthy monounsaturated fat that is also found in olive oil.

• Stearic Acid is a saturated fat but one which research is shows has a neutral effect on cholesterol.

• Palmitic Acid is also a saturated fat, one which raises cholesterol and heart disease risk.

That means only 1/3 of the fat in dark chocolate is bad for you.

Chocolate Tip 1 - Balance the Calories

This information doesn't mean that you should eat a pound of chocolate a day. Chocolate is still a high-calorie, high-fat food. Most of the studies done used no more than 100 grams, or about 3.5 ounces, of dark chocolate a day to get the benefits.
One bar of dark chocolate has around 400 calories. If you eat half a bar of chocolate a day, you must balance those 200 calories by eating less of something else. Cut out other sweets or snacks and replace them with chocolate to keep your total calories the same.

Chocolate Tip 2 - Really TASTE it

Chocolate is a complex food with over 300 compounds and chemicals in each bite. To really enjoy and appreciate chocolate, take the time to taste it. Professional chocolate tasters have developed a system for tasting chocolate that include assessing the appearance, smell, feel and taste of each piece.

Chocolate Tip 3 - Go for Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has far more antioxidants than milk or white chocolate. These other two chocolates cannot make any health claims. Dark chocolate has 65 percent or higher cocoa content.

Chocolate Tip 4 - Skip the Nougat

You should look for pure dark chocolate or dark chocolate with nuts, orange peel or other flavorings. Avoid anything with caramel, nougat or other fillings. These fillings are just adding sugar and fat which erase many of the benefits you get from eating the chocolate.

Chocolate Tip 5 - Avoid Milk

It may taste good but some research shows that washing your chocolate down with a glass of milk could prevent the antioxidants being absorbed or used by your body.

Article courtesy of About.com, found with sources, here.

Body weight is one of the most basic issues of human life. Medically speaking, not all overweight people are obese. Obesity is defined as weight that exceeds 15 percent of normal weight for height and body type. "Morbid" obesity exceeds 20 percent of optimum weight.

An obese or overweight person is at high risk for a number of serious health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, varicose veins, dementia, psychological stress, depression, osteoarthritis, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

The body mass index (BMI) is a widely used formula to calculate obesity because body fat is considered within the calculated result. BMI must be 24 or less in order for one's weight to be considered healthy. An individual with a BMI 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight. Obese individuals have a BMI greater than 30.

A study published in the journal Obesity investigated whether a high protein breakfast could curb a person’s appetite. The researchers enrolled 10 girls with an average age of 15 years to participate for three weeks and targeted breakfast-skipping teens. The volunteers either continued to skip breakfast or consumed 500-calorie breakfast meals containing cereal and milk (which contained normal quantities of protein) or higher protein meals such as Belgium waffles, syrup and yogurt. At the end of each week, the volunteers completed appetite and satiety questionnaires. Right before lunch, the volunteers completed a brain scan, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to identify brain activation responses.

The results were the group consuming a high protein breakfast experienced a greater change in appetite, satiety and reward-driven eating behavior compared to the normal protein breakfast group and the group that skipped breakfast. In conclusion, the researchers stated “Incorporating a healthy breakfast containing protein-rich foods can be a simple strategy for people to stay satisfied longer, and therefore, be less prone to snacking. These findings suggest that a protein-rich breakfast might be an effective strategy to improve appetite control and prevent overeating in young people."

Article and research sources courtesy of NHIonDemand.com, found here.

If you missed the xenoestrogens blog (Part 1) about Bisphenol A (BPA) and its health consequences, you can find it here.  BPA is everywhere.  More than likely, all of us are exposed to BPA fairly regularly.  Are there any diet-related remedies for eliminating this toxin already in our bodies?  There just may be!  PROBIOTICS!

Specific probiotics:  Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei are two beneficial bacterial strains shown to reduce intestinal absorption of BPA by carrying it out of your digestive system (1).  This is great news because consuming these probiotic strains may destroy the harmful effects of BPA.  These two strains can be found in both foods and supplements, depending on the supplement.

• Bifidobacteria breve  belongs to a group of bacteria called lactic acid bacteria.  Lactic acid bacteria are found in naturally fermented foods, kefir, and cheese.
• Lactobacillus casei  grows naturally in the human digestive system.  The bacteria help the digestive system operate properly, boost immune function, and help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.  Lactobacillus casei is predominantly found in naturally fermented foods and kefir.

BPA is very concerning for parents and soon-to-be parents  because some animal studies report ill effects in fetuses and newborns exposed to BPA.  This tells me all pregnant women would benefit by taking a probiotic containing Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei on a nightly basis.  Why nightly?  Because stomach acid is not as strong after dinner so probiotics have the best chance at establishing residence in your digestive tract.  You also are not going to eat for about another 8 hours, giving the probiotics time to attach to your intestinal wall and form colonies.

Another reason for parents to be concerned is BPA’s estrogen mimicking effects and its possible link to obesity (2), so infants, toddlers, and children can also benefit by a probiotic supplement to prevent absorbing this incredibly harmful chemical into the bloodstream.

Why take probiotics daily?  Levels of beneficial bacteria don’t reside in your intestines forever.  In fact, they stay there for only a short time before they’re utilized or excreted.  Some reasons beneficial bacteria decrease include not eating whole foods, consuming too much alcohol, salt, and chlorinated water, consuming too many drugs and antibiotics, and they decline with age.  A daily probiotic is very helpful to keep levels up.

You’re off to a good start by understanding how these two strains of probiotics, Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei, are beneficial for binding BPA.  Replenishing the beneficial bacterial colonies on a nightly basis will keep you healthier today, tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:                                                                                                                                                                                 1.  Oishi K, Sato T, Yokoi W, Yoshida Y, Ito M, Sawada H. Effect of probiotics, Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei, on bisphenol A exposure in rats.  Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2008 Jun;72(6):1409-15.

2.  Trasande L, MD, MPP; Attina TM, MD, PhD, MPH; Blustein J, MD, PhD.  Association Between Urinary Bisphenol A Concentration and Obesity Prevalence in Children and Adolescents.  JAMA. 2012;308(11):1113-1121.

Phthalates:  A second xenoestrogen called phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible or resilient.  Phthalates are found in:

• Children’s items, such as plastic/squishy toys, infant chew rings and teethers

• Food packaging

• Hoses and PVC pipe

• Raincoats, shower curtains and vinyl flooring

• Faux leather handbags

• Detergents

• Nail polish and nail polish remover

• Hair spray, shampoo and cosmetics

• IV bags and tubing

• Adhesives and lubricants

Who wants their baby chewing on a squishy, phthalate-laden toy?  I sure don’t! 

The potential for phthalates to alter thyroid hormones and signaling has recently gained increased attention in research.  For example, recent studies have reported declines in measures of brain development in relation to phthalates and thyroid signaling has been hypothesized as one potential mechanism involved in this association (1, 2, 3).

Parabens:  A third xenoestrogen called parabens are the BPA of the beauty industry.  Parabens are commonly used as antimicrobial preservatives in makeup, lip balms, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, shaving creams, and facial and shower cleansers and scrubs. 

Parabens are absorbed through your skin, blood, and digestive system  (4).  A 2004 UK study detected traces of five different types of parabens in the breast cancer tumors of 19 out of 20 women studied (5).  This small study does not prove a causal relationship between parabens and breast cancer, but it is important because it detected the presence of intact parabens – unaltered by the body’s metabolism – which is an indication of the chemicals' ability to penetrate skin and remain in breast tissue.  Check out the Environmental Working Groups Skin Deep database for safety and toxicity data for thousands of products.  

Reducing Your Exposure:  Learning this information for the first time may be quite overwhelming, so where can you begin to reduce your exposure to xenoestrogens?  Start small--every little change will make a difference in your health.

1.  Examine the ingredients in the products you use on a daily basis.  Look for “BPA free,” “Phthalate free,” and “Paraben free” on products you purchase.

2.  Limit your use of plastics.  Avoid drinking from plastic water bottles and don’t refill plastic water bottles.  If a plastic water bottle has heated up significantly, throw it away—do not drink the water.  Do not heat your food or drinks in plastic containers.  Instead, use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers.  Check out the Klean Kanteen’s on our website.  They’re a great alternative to a plastic bottle!

3.  Avoid all pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides.  Whenever possible, buy organic produce.  Check out this website to see a list of the “Dirty Dozen” and the “Clean Fifteen” fruits and vegetables:  http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/guide/

4.  Minimize your exposure to nail polish and nail polish removers.

5.  Use chemical free, biodegradable laundry and household cleaning products whenever possible.

6.  Use chemical free soaps and toothpaste.

7.  Purchase paraben-free lotion, lip balms, shampoo, conditioner, and makeup.    

8.  If you have infants or children, buy phthalate free toys, especially those that will be put in mouths. 

Click here to read Part 1 about Xenoestrogens, which covers what and where they are, as well as information on Bisphenol A (BPA).

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1. Cho SC, Bhang SY.  Relationship between environmental phthalate exposure and the intelligence of school-age children.  Environ Health Perspect. 2010 Jul;118(7):1027-32. 

2.  Engel SM, Zhu C.  Prenatal phthalate exposure and performance on the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale in a multiethnic birth cohort.  Neurotoxicology. 2009 Jul;30(4):522-8. 

3.  Kim BN.  Phthalates exposure and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in school-age children.  Biol Psychiatry. 2009 Nov 15;66(10):958-63.

4.  Gray, J (2010). State of the Evidence: The Connection between Breast Cancer and the Environment. San Francisco, CA: The Breast Cancer Fund.

5.  Darbre PD, Aljarrah A, Miller WR, Coldham NG, Sauer MJ, Pope GS (2004). Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumors. Journal of Applied Toxicology 24:5-13.

Xenoestrogens.  Sounds pretty serious, right?  That’s because they are! 

What?  The word ‘xeno’ comes from Ancient Greek, meaning ‘foreign.”  Xenoestrogens are synthetic, man-made chemicals which increase the amount of estrogenic activity in the body, and therefore can disrupt how our hormones are supposed to work. 

Where?  There are over 20 of these man-made chemicals identified to have estrogenic effects. They are present in an overabundance of products such as:

        •  Plastics of all kinds

        •  Carpet (both residential and commercial)

        •  Air fresheners, cleaning products and detergents

        •  Insecticides and herbicides

        •  Teflon coating on cookware and haircare items, such as flat irons and curling irons

        •  Lotions and sunscreens

        •  Food coloring and preservatives

        •  Perfumes and cosmetics 

Scary as it is, we are constantly exposed to xenoestrogens, making them impossible to avoid.  However, with education and awareness you can begin minimizing your exposure to these chemicals. 

In Part 1 of this series, let’s look at the first of three xenoestrogens you may be exposed to everyday and not even realize it.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a xenoestrogen used to harden plastics.  Products you may recognize which contain BPA include:

        •  Polycarbonate plastics, such as water bottles and plastic food containers

        •  Metal can linings, such as canned tomatoes, soups, beans, vegetables, etc.

        •  Dental sealants

        •  Cash register receipts

Human exposure occurs when BPA is leached from these common items.  The rate of leaching increases at high temperatures and when the polycarbonate plastic is scratched and discolored (1, 2, 3).  Think of heating up your leftover dinner in a plastic container in the microwave.  Plastic + Heat = Trouble!  

Research on the estrogenic effects of BPA shows it activates estrogen receptors (4, 5) and stimulates breast cancer cell growth (6).  

In the developing fetus, estrogen controls the development of the brain, the reproductive system and many other systems. Xenoestrogens can duplicate, block or exaggerate hormonal responses.  This is very concerning for parents because some animal studies report ill effects in fetuses and newborns exposed to BPA. 

Recent studies suggest BPA may also be linked to obesity by triggering fat-cell activity (7). 

In men, there is increasing evidence both from epidemiology studies and animal models that specific endocrine-disrupting compounds, such as BPA, may influence the development or progression of prostate cancer (8).

What action is being taken in the US to ban products containing BPA?  Legislation has been introduced to the US Senate to ban children’s products made with polycarbonate plastic containing BPA, such as baby bottles and sippy cups.  This is progress, but not enough.  As a consumer, you must be your own advocate to avoid BPA-containing products.

FYI, polycarbonate products which contain BPA are labeled with the recycling symbol “7”.

Where can you begin to reduce your exposure to xenoestrogens?  Start small--every little change will make a difference in your health.

• Look for “BPA free” on bottles and cans you purchase.
• Look for "BPA free" on sippy cups and plastics your children use.
• Limit your use of canned foods.
• Limit your use of plastics.  Avoid drinking from plastic water bottles and don’t refill plastic water bottles.  If a plastic water bottle has heated up significantly, throw it away—do not drink the water.
• Do not heat your food or drinks in plastic containers.  Instead, use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers.  Check out the Klean Kanteen’s on our website.  They’re a great alternative to a plastic bottle!

Part 2 will feature two more common, yet undesirable, xenoestrogens:  phthalates and parabens, along with some simple tips to reduce your exposure to these toxins!       

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Brede C, Fjeldal P, Skjevrak I, Herikstad H,  2003.  Increased migration levels of bisphenol A from polycarbonate baby bottles after dishwashing, boiling and brushing.  Food Additives and Contaminants 20, 7: 684-689.

2.  Burridge E.  Bisphenol A: product profile. Eur Chem News. 2003 Apr;14–20:17.

3.  Howdeshell KA et al. Bisphenol A is released from used polycarbonate animal cages into water at room temperature.  Environ Health Perspect. 2003 July; 111(9): 1180–1187.

4.  Routledge EJ, White R, Parker MG, Sumpter JP. Differential effects of xenoestrogens on coactivator recruitment by estrogen receptor (ER) αand ERβ. J Biol Chem. 2000;46:35986–35993.

5.  Matthews JB, Twomey K, Zacharewski TR.  In vitro and in vivo interactions of bisphenol A and its metabolite, bisphenol A glucuronide, with estrogen receptors alpha and beta.  Chem Res Toxicol.  2001 Feb;14(2):149-57.

6.  Krishnan AV, Stathis P, Permuth SF, Tokes L, Feldman D.  Bisphenol-A: an estrogenic substance is released from polycarbonate flasks during autoclaving.  Endocrinology. 1993 Jun;132(6):2279-86.

7.  Trasande L, MD, MPP; Attina TM, MD, PhD, MPH; Blustein J, MD, PhD.  Association Between Urinary Bisphenol A Concentration and Obesity Prevalence in Children and Adolescents. JAMA.  2012;308(11):1113-1121.

8.  Prins GS. Endocrine disruptors and prostate cancer risk.  Endocr Relat Cancer. 2008 September; 15(3): 649.

Consider the relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer.  According to the Vitamin D Council, there is strong evidence vitamin D plays a beneficial role in lowering breast cancer risk.  Whether vitamin D is obtained from sun exposure, food, or supplements, vitamin D must undergo chemical reactions to become calcitriol, which may provide the numerous benefits against cancer (2).  Calcitriol encourages cells to either adapt to their organ or go through normal, programmed cell death (3).  Calcitriol also limits blood supply to the tumor and reduces the spread of cancer (4).  To simplify, vitamin D may play a role in controlling normal breast cell growth and may be able to stop breast cancer cells from growing.    

Vitamin D and You

Sun vs. supplements: The primary way Mother Nature intended for you to incorporate vitamin D is through sunlight.  Many studies have found vitamin D produced from solar ultraviolet-B (UVB) is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer (5, 6). Isn’t it interesting that Norwegian women diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer had higher survival rates than those diagnosed in winter?  People typically have higher vitamin D levels in summer than winter, which may explain the findings.  Also, African American women diagnosed with breast cancer generally have lower survival rates than white Americans, which may be due to lower levels of vitamin D, attributed to lower production rates of vitamin D from solar UVB because of darker skin (7, 8).

Winter’s coming:  As we enter the winter months and the strength of the sun’s rays diminish, Vitamin D supplementation is an effective secondary alternative to sun exposure, provided adequate doses are taken.  Vitamin D can also be obtained through your diet, but very few foods naturally contain vitamin D.  Some foods containing vitamin D include vitamin D-fortified milk, yogurt, and orange juice, salmon, tuna fish, cod liver oil, and egg yolks. 

Getting the right dosage?  Vitamin D₃ is the preferred supplement form because it is the form of vitamin D which most effectively treats vitamin D deficiency.  The only way to know if a certain dosage works for you is to have your vitamin D levels tested, and continue monitoring your levels to determine the correct dose.  Individual response to taking supplemental vitamin D₃ varies from person to person so the amount needed to raise and/or maintain blood serum levels for one person may not be enough for another.  This is due to various factors such as age, weight, absorption, overall health, and amount of sun exposure.  Studies found the risk of breast cancer falls as vitamin D blood levels rise to over 40 ng/mL (9, 10).

The Vitamin D Council recommends the following amounts of supplemental vitamin D₃ per day in the absence of proper sun exposure.

• Healthy children under the age of 1 years – 1,000 IU
• Healthy children over the age of 1 years – 1,000 IU per every 25 lbs. of body weight
• Healthy adults and adolescents – at least 5,000 IU
• Pregnant and lactating mothers - at least 6,000 IU+

For more information about vitamin D and breast cancer, please visit the Vitamin D Council's website at:  http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/health-conditions/cancer/breast-cancer/

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

1.  Garland CF, Garland FC.  Do sunlight and vitamin D reduce the likelihood of colon cancer.  Int J Epidemiol. 1980 Sept; 9(3):227-31. 

2.  Yingya Ma, Trump D, Johnson CS.  Vitamin D in combination cancer treatment.  J Cancer 2010; 1:101-107.

3.  James SY, Mackay AG, Colston KW.  Effects of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 and its analogues on induction of apoptosis in breast cancer cells.  J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1996;58:395-401.

4.  Colston KW, Berger U, Coombes RC.  Possible role for vitamin D in controlling breast cancer cell proliferation. Lancet. 1989 Jan 28; 1 (8631): 188-91.

5.  Oh EY, Ansell C, Nawaz H, Yang CH, Wood PA, Hrushesky WJ.  Global breast cancer seasonality. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2010 Aug; 123 (1): 233-43.

6.  Grant WB.  Update on Evidence that Support a Role of Solar Ultraviolet-B Irradiance in Reducing Cancer Risk.  Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2012 Oct 12.

7.  Grant WB.  Lower vitamin-D production from solar ultraviolet-B irradiance may explain some differences in cancer survival rates. J Natl Med Assoc. 2006 Mar; 98 (3): 357-64.

8.  Grant WB, Peiris AN.  Differences in vitamin D status may account for unexplained disparities in cancer survival rates between African and white Americans.  Dermatoendocrinol. 2012 Apr 1;4(2):85-94.

9.  Grant WB.  Relation between prediagnostic serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and incidence of breast, colorectal, and other cancers. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2010 May 12.

10. Garland CF, Gorham ED, Mohr SB, Garland FC.  Vitamin D for cancer prevention: global perspective. Ann Epidemiol. 2009 Jul; 19 (7): 468-83.

Are you doing everything you can do to keep your immune system up to par?  Check out these top nutrition tips to stay healthy this cold and flu season:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C tops the list of immune boosters.  There has been more research about the immune boosting effects of Vitamin C than perhaps any other nutrient.  Vitamin C is available naturally in many fruits and vegetables.  Unlike most animals that produce their own Vitamin C, the human body does not synthesize any.  Vitamin C has substantial antiviral and antibacterial benefits though it's known for its protective aspects in creating host resistance.  The most abundant vitamin C foods are guava, papaya, strawberries, kiwi, cantaloupe, orange, and grapefruit.

Probiotics

The live cultures found in yogurt, particularly Lactobaccilus and Bifidobacteria, may be beneficial in enhancing immunity. Having a healthy supply of gut flora increases a person's white blood cell production and activity.  They may also boost the immunity while taking antibiotics, and they supply added protection to those who may have a compromised immune system.  In a recent Swedish study, those who drank a daily supplement of Lactobacillus reuteri (a specific probiotic that appears to stimulate white blood cells) took 33 percent fewer sick days than those given a placebo.  Probiotic rich foods include yogurt, kefir, select cheeses and milk, sauerkraut, kim chi and tempeh.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are antioxidant rich and very high in selenium. Selenium has been studied to reduce the risk of developing a severe flu.  Mushrooms are also recognized for their antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-tumor effects.  White button mushrooms in particular have noticeably greater immune boosting effects than other mushrooms such as, oyster and shiitake.

High Fiber Grains

Oats and barley in particular contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber with antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities.  They enhance resistance to various fungal, bacterial and viral diseases.  Beta-glucan is also found in protective amounts in shiitake and maitake mushrooms.  Beta-glucan enhances immunity, similarly to echinacea and astragalus root.  Beta-glucan binds to macrophages and other white blood cells and activates anti-infection activity by increasing the production of free radicals.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E has been studied for its production of natural killer and B-cells, the cells that produce antibodies that destroy bacteria.  The highest vitamin E foods are green leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, almonds and blueberries.

Carrots and Sweet Potato

The antioxidant beta carotene has been studied to increase the number natural killer T-cells in our immune system.  Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant that mops up excess free radicals that can accelerate illness.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral which increases the production of white blood cells.  As little as 15 to 25 milligrams a day will help to support immune function.  Some of the top zinc foods are oyster, crab, grass fed beef and beans.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and immune boosting effects.  Garlic stimulates the production of white blood cells and increases the efficiency of antibody production. The immune-boosting properties of garlic seem to be due to its sulfur-containing compounds.  Garlic can also act as an antioxidant that reduces the build-up of free radicals in the bloodstream.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fats reduce inflammation, increasing airflow and protect the lungs from colds and respiratory infections.  The omega-3 fatty acids in ground flaxseed and fish such as, salmon, tuna, sole, flounder, sardines, herring and mackerel, act as immune boosters by increasing the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that destroy bacteria.  Other omega 3 rich foods are tofu, edamame and walnuts.

Tea

The amino acid responsible for immune boosting components in tea is, L-theanine. It is abundant in both black and green tea.  Many already know to drink green tea to help fight disease, new research is also including white tea, for its strong ability to destroy the organisms that cause disease.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

We know there’s a correlation between what you eat and how it helps your body, but what about eats for your eyes?   Eye health and loss of vision as we age are of great concern, leading many to seek preventive measures by obtaining essential nutrients through diet and/or supplementation.

Other than Bugs Bunny telling us to eat carrots, we don't always associate nutrition with eye health, but there are two little nutrients our eyes can't do without...lutein and zeaxanthin.  Here’s the skinny:

What?

 Lutein and zeaxanthin are powerful antioxidants from the carotenoid family.  Lutein is a pigment found in dark, green, leafy vegetables, including spinach, kale, broccoli, and collard greens.  Egg yolks also provide a highly bioavailable source of lutein.  Zeaxanthin is found in fruits and vegetables with yellow hues, such as corn, peaches, persimmons, and mangoes.  The two carotenoids are often lumped together when discussed or studied because they are structurally very similar, found in many of the same foods, and both are the only carotenoids present in the macula region of your eye’s retina.  Because lutein and zeaxanthin are not synthesized in the body, you must acquire them either through food or dietary supplements.

Why? 

Lutein and zeaxanthin are highly concentrated in the macula, which is responsible for central vision and high-resolution visual acuity.  They have been found to help prevent age-related macular degeneration by acting as a shield or filter that helps to absorb harmful UVB light and dangerous free-radical molecules, both of which threaten the retinal tissue.  Simply put, as antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin sacrifice themselves to protect our eyes from damage caused by the bad guys (free radicals), occurring from daily exposure to sunlight, indoor lighting, and environmental pollutants.  Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in the macula naturally deplete as people age, so it is essential to maintain proper levels of these eye nutrients every day. 

How Much? 

Although there is no recommended daily intake for lutein and zeaxanthin, most recent studies show a health benefit for lutein supplementation at 10 mg or more per day and zeaxanthin supplementation at 2 mg per day.

Note:  At this time, the American Optometric Association (AOA) is unaware of any studies that have examined interactions between medications and lutein and zeaxanthin.  The AOA also is not aware of any adverse health reports from interactions between medications and lutein and zeaxanthin.  However, the AOA recommends consulting with a health care professional before beginning any supplementation regimen.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Good

References:

1.  Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Sperduto RD, et al.  Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration.  Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group.  JAMA.  1994;272:1413-142.

2.  The Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group.  Antioxidant status and neovascular age-related macular degeneration.  Arch. Ophthalmol. 1993;111:104-109.

3.  Berrow EJ, Barlett HE, Eperjesi F, Gibson JM.  The effects of a lutein-based supplement on objective and subjective measures of retinal and visual function in eyes with age-related maculopathy - a randomised controlled trial. Br J Nutr. 2012 Oct 19:1-7.

4.  Wong IYH, Koo SCY, Chan CWN.  Prevention of age-related macular degeneration.  International Ophthalmology.  2011 Feb.; 31(1):  73-82.

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New findings from the University of California, Davis suggests women who consume the recommended daily dosage of folic acid during the first month of pregnancy may have a reduced risk of having a child with autism.

The study’s researchers previously found that women who took prenatal vitamins around the time of conception had a reduced risk of having a child with autism.  These findings are consistent with findings of other studies suggesting that improved neurodevelopmental outcomes are associated with folic acid intake in early pregnancy.  The current study sought to determine whether the folic acid consumed in those supplements was the actual source of the protective effect.

The study found women who consumed 600 micrograms of folic acid every day during the first month of pregnancy experienced a reduced risk of having a child with autism spectrum disorder, specifically when the mother and/or her child had a specific genetic variant (MTHFR 677 C>T), associated with less efficient folate metabolism.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication deficits and repetitive behaviors and often is accompanied by intellectual disability.

The mechanism for these findings indicate folic acid might offer protection against problems in embryonic brain development by facilitating DNA methylation reactions that can lead to changes in the way the genetic code is read.  An ample supply of methyl donors, such as folic acid, could be especially important in the period around conception, when the DNA methylation road map is set forth. 

Women with any chance of becoming pregnant should consider taking 600 micrograms or greater of folic acid per day.

NOTE:  Thank you to a reader's astute observation, I would like to add some information to this blog:  L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF) is the active form of folate and ensures more immediate effects on metabolism compared to folic acid, the form of folate commonly used in fortified foods and supplements.  Folic acid is not recommended for those with certain types of MTHFR issues, due to the inability to convert folic acid to methylfolate.  I recommend women supplement with L-5-MTHF and Folinic acid--- not folic acid.

In Health and Happiness, 

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Journal Reference:

1. R. J. Schmidt, D. J. Tancredi, S. Ozonoff, R. L. Hansen, J. Hartiala, H. Allayee, L. C. Schmidt, F. Tassone, I. Hertz-Picciotto. Maternal periconceptional folic acid intake and risk of autism spectrum disorders and developmental delay in the CHARGE (CHildhood Autism Risks from Genetics and Environment) case-control study. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2012 Jul;96(1):80-9.

What have you heard about probiotics?  Have you heard of healthy bacteria or good bacteria?  Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria or yeast) and, when consumed in adequate amounts, they offer a health benefit within your digestive tract.  This is especially important because nearly three-quarters of your immune system is located in your digestive tract, so without enough healthy bacteria, your health may suffer as a result.  Probiotics provide an additional tool to help your body protect itself and enhance immune function.

Ideally, there should be a balance of approximately 80% healthy bacteria and 20% harmful bacteria in your intestines.

Even children can benefit from probiotics’ immune boosting effects.  In a very interesting study of children 3 to 5 years old, children who took a probiotic 2x/day from November to May with combined Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis Bi-07 had 72% less fever, 62% less cough, and 59% less runny nose compared to children who didn’t take any probiotics!  What a drastic improvement!

If you decide probiotics are right for you, here are smart tips to help you make the right selection.

• This is really important—not all probiotics are the same or equal.  Different species and strains of probiotics are used for different health concerns.  For basic healthy eating, all yogurts and their live, active cultures are fine.  But if you have a health problem, then the specific probiotic strain matters.
• Probiotics should be ‘live’ which means they still work so look for the words “live and active cultures” on the food or supplement label.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Plenty of research exists as to why essential fatty acids are important, so why doesn’t everyone eat fish or find another method for consuming essential fatty acids?  Is it because of cost, availability, convenience, lack of awareness, vegetarian/vegan lifestyle, or some other reason?

Let’s look at the two most beneficial omega 3’s backed by extensive research---EPA and DHA.  Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are omega-3 essential fatty acids very difficult to pronounce, so good thing they have simple acronyms we can refer to instead!  They are found in fish and fish oil and although they work together in the body, each fatty acid has very unique benefits.  Let’s take a look at each of them. 

Research shows EPA is an anti-inflammatory and also improves heart health, immune function, and circulation, and reduces joint pain.  Because of this, EPA is very beneficial for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, including arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.  Research shows fish oil reduces triglycerides, supports healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and may prevent heart attacks.  The American Heart Association recommends people with heart disease consume a minimum of 1 gram of combined EPA and DHA per day, and those with high triglycerides consume 2-4 grams per day.

DHA is essential to brain function throughout life.  It improves learning and memory, reduces depression and anxiety, is essential for healthy infant and child development, and uniquely benefits the brain and nerve cells.  DHA also improves eye health.  During pregnancy and the first years of a child’s life, DHA is essential for the development of the brain, eyes, nervous system, and immune system. 

EPA and DHA are both very beneficial in different ways.  Choosing to consume higher amounts of one fatty acid over the other may depend on what your health focus is.  Experts recommend 500-1000 mg EPA+DHA per day to maintain health and avoid deficiency.  Therapeutic doses of EPA+DHA range from 1 to 4 grams per day.  To support the body’s anti-inflammatory response, clinical studies suggest a minimum of 3 grams of EPA and DHA.  Read the supplement facts on the product to know how much individual EPA and DHA you are getting. 

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

You’ve heard about essential fats in the media and you know they’re important, but do you know why and how to balance your essential fatty acid intake?   Let’s explore this.  First off, essential fatty acids are considered “essential” because they’re required for optimal health, but our body can’t produce them so we must consume them through our food or supplementation.

There are two families of essential fatty acids:  omega-3 and omega-6, and each have different effects on our body.  Both fatty acids are important, but the real key is to consume omega-3 and omega-6 in a balanced ratio to maintain health.  When out of balance, excess intake of omega-6 promotes inflammation, increases blood clotting, and depresses the immune system.  On the other hand, omega-3 is anti-inflammatory, increases circulation, and enhances the immune system.  Here’s what you may not realize…the modern Western diet has negatively shifted this crucial balance by the availability of too much omega-6 on a daily basis from refined vegetable oils, processed foods, meats, and too little intake of omega-3.  One exception is a uniquely beneficial type of omega-6 found in borage oil, evening primrose oils, black currant oil, spirulina (a blue-green algae), and hemp seeds. 

Let’s look at several ways to keep your essential fatty acid intake in balance. 

First, reflect on how much vegetable oil you may eat.  Omega-6 is found in high concentrations from the oils of corn, safflower, sunflower, and soy.  Whether you’re eating these oils as an ingredient in convenient, processed foods or adding it during cooking, consider decreasing the quantity and using more walnut, flaxseed, or canola oils.  Store your walnut and flaxseed oil in dark glass containers and avoid heating them on the stove.  So go ahead and use them to make a salad dressing instead of sautéing your vegetables in them.  Think about including borage, evening primrose oil, or black currant oil in your diet.

Second, reflect on your intake or lack thereof of omega-3.  Fish such as salmon, tuna, scallops, cod, sardines, mackerel, crab, halibut, and herring are great sources of omega-3.  The plant based form of omega-3 is found in flaxseed, walnuts, chia seeds, kale, and collard greens.  Unfortunately, it is now well-known only a small amount of the plant based omega-3 is converted in our bodies to the form of omega-3 important for all the health benefits.  Fish is the best food source of omega-3, and due to concerns about toxins such as mercury, consider a balance between eating 6 ounces per week and taking a purified fish oil supplement.  Look for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the supplement you choose.  To understand more about EPA and DHA, look out for my next blog which will get into the specifics.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Have you heard the news?  Turmeric is a noteworthy spice you’ll want to include regularly in your diet.  Turmeric is the bright, golden-colored spice prominently used in Indian curry dishes.  While brilliantly colored, it has a very mild flavor.

For centuries, turmeric has been used as an herbal remedy. More recent studies show its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer properties.  Turmeric’s primary active ingredient responsible for its amazing medicinal properties is curcumin (not to be confused with spicy capsaician).

Ten reasons why you should include this Spice For Life in your diet.  They speak for themselves!

1.  Inflammation fighter:  Curcumin contains more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds.

2.  Curbs chronic illnesses:  In various chronic illnesses in which inflammation is known to play a major role, curcumin shows therapeutic potential. These diseases include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, cerebral injury, cardiovascular disease, cancer, allergy, asthma, bronchitis, colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, diabetes, obesity, depression, fatigue, and AIDS.

3.  Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers:  Curcumin is effective for improving joint swelling and morning joint stiffness.

4.  Fighting Alzheimer’s:  Curcumin has been shown to exhibit activity against various neurologic diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.  Scientists have hypothesized the turmeric eaten in India as part of daily curry meals may help explain the low rate of Alzheimer's disease in that country.  Among people aged 70 to 79, the rate is less than one-quarter that of the United States.

5.  Inhibits cancer cell growth:  Preclinical cancer research using curcumin show it inhibits cancer cell production in a number of cancer types, including colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, prostate, hepatic, breast, oral cancers, and leukemia.

6.  Lung cancer:  In the lungs, curcumin can halt cancer cell invasion and metastasis by activating a tumor-suppressor.

7.  Skin cancer:  In lab rats, curcumin inhibits the growth of a skin cancer, melanoma and also slows the spread of breast cancer into the lungs.

8.  Boosts chemotherapy benefits:  Researchers have found pretreatment with curcumin makes cancer cells more vulnerable to chemo and radiotherapy.

9.  Managing diabetes:  In diabetes, curcumin can decrease blood glucose levels.

10. High cholesterol sufferers:  As a potent antioxidant, curcumin has been shown to lower cholesterol, which builds up as plaque that damages blood vessels and can lead to heart attack or stroke.

How can you get more turmeric into your diet?  Of course, you can simply enjoy more curried dishes, either in restaurants or at home.  Both turmeric and curcumin are also available in supplement form.  Whichever method, adding turmeric to your diet is one of the best moves toward optimal health you can make.

In Health and Happiness,

Kelly Harrington, MS, RD

Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

Sounds cool and macho.

Regarding Malaria:
Research shows that malaria can be killed and prevented quite well through artemesinin. Even the World Health Organization is recommending the use of artemisinin-based combination therapies.

A supplement that I recommend taking to areas with malaria, and many other unwanted organisms, is ParaBiotic by Biogenesis: 

• Why? Because ParaBiotic contains a broad mix of very potent anti-bacterial/viral and parasitic herbs. Some of my professors at Bastyr also recommended it to patients who were traveling in areas with Malaria. 
• It is pretty strong – adults: take as directed on the label. Kids aged 6 and above take ½ the adult dose. Kids younger than 6, talk with your naturopathic doctor.
• Make sure you drink plenty of filtered water.

Regarding Traveler's Diarrhea:
Supporting the immune system and digestive system's integrity is needed to reduce incidence of Traveler's Diarrhea. 

ProBiota 12 is a high potency probiotic that I developed. Consider taking 1 capsule after dinner each evening. ProBiota 12 can handle being in the sun for a few months and still maintain plenty of viable bacteria. It was evaluated in the lab at different temperatures.

Probiotics help fend off harmful bacteria which commonly 'ride' on foods and water. Taking a high potency probiotic such as ProBiota 12, significantly helps reduce the likelihood of invasion by these unwanted organisms.

PreGestion by Seeking Health: Why? Increasing stomach acid during meals and in general helps kill microbes in the gut. Make sure to take 1 capsule WITH a meal to help prevent incidental bacterial exposure like E Coli.

NOTE: If you ever get Traveler’s Diarrhea (your risk is significantly less if you take ProBiota 12, PreGestion and ParaBiotic), I have found that this combination is highly effective and will wipe out most critters quickly:

1. Take 6 capsules of ProBiota every 2 hours or take ½ teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder
2. Take 4 capsules of ParaBiotic
3. Take a large ‘swig’ of Herbal Melange 
4. With every meal, take 1-2 capsules of PreGestion

MAKE SURE TO CHECK HERBAL MELANGE in your baggage. You cannot carry it on the airplane – it is too large a container of liquid.

• Adults should consider taking Optimal Multivitamin by Seeking Health. As indicated on the label.
• Kids aged 4 and up should consider taking Kid's Optimal Multivitamin by Seeking Health. If they cannot swallow pills, open the vegetarian capsules and mix in some food or drink.

Vitamin D: get in the sun – everyone – 20 minutes a day WITHOUT sunscreen – morning preferred before too hot and sun too strong. This way you get your vitamin D for free. Then put on sunscreen. Have arms, face, legs and shoulders ideally exposed to the sun.

Before you get on the plane, all should take multivitamins, probiotics and vitamin D to support the immune system during the flight. I always do this for my family.

Reduce the toxic burden from flying by taking N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine before, during and after the flight. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine is important due to the jet fuel exposure in the cabin. 70% and more of the air breathed in the cabins is recycled from the engines so we are all breathing plenty of exhaust during flight.

I and my family take about ½ dropper of Liquid Vitamin D the day of flight. This stimulates the immune system quite effectively.

If you need a good tasting Vitamin C that the kids will enjoy mixing in their water (which may taste bad down there), consider mixing a teaspoon of Optimal Vitamin C once a day or so. It will make their water taste quite good – and keep their immunity up to snuff.

Have an excellent time! Send me some photos!

My wife and three boys are now in the vast countryside of Russia visiting my wife’s side of the family. Lovely place out there – I typically go but this year staying back as working on some big projects that require a lot of focus and attention.

If anything goes down while in Africa, diarrhea, etc, do email me. I may be able to get you out of trouble. That reminds me:

NOTE: Do not take PreGestion with ProBiota 12. Make sure to take PreGestion with MEALS and ProBiota 12 AFTER dinner – say 15 minutes after dinner or so is ideal – but anytime after dinner is fine – just far enough away from taking PreGestion (about 30 minutes away is fine)

I’ve been to many countries but Africa – not yet. Some day!

Safe Travels!!

In health,

Dr Ben

PS - Careful…inquire where you are staying if they’ve sprayed DDT. If they have, find a different place to stay. Half life of DDT is very very long and not easy to get out of the body.

For the fungus it is on my back ,shoulder chest and a bit on neck and I am worried. it used to be reddish when stressed and now it is more whilte patches and it is not so pretty. The dermatologist had it looked at and confirmed it is tinea versicolor but nothing really helps so thank you for letting me know what you think about it and if you have heard good things about this.Also reducing stress and sugar i understand ...

Keep me posted on your thoughts and experience about this product please and people who had great results.
 
Anything that depresses the immune system combined with humidity increases the likelihood of tinea versicolor.
 
Key nutrients to improve your skin health and reduce tinea versicolor:

• Saprox topically – which you have.
• Shower filter – to increase the health of your skin and reduce oil production causing improved tinea versicolor habitat
• ProBiota 12 Powder – taking ½ teaspoon after dinner daily for two months then switching to
• ProBIota 12 capsules – taking 1 capsule after dinner daily.

Both probiotics are key to improving immunity and reducing habitat for yeast & other fungi internally

• Biotin 5 – take 1 capsule AM and PM with or without food to increase skin health.
• Eat protein snacks every two hours to balance blood sugar which reduces binging and sugar cravings. Helps every time – significantly.
• Magnesium Plus – take 2 capsules AM and PM for one month then reduce to 2 capsules at night to help reduce stress, improve mood and outlook.
• Vitamin D3 – take at least 2,000 IU a day to 6,000 IU a day to increase your D3 levels.
• Make sure you change your shirt frequently – keep it dry. Wear breathable clothing.
• Avoid any creams or lotions on your skin.
• Optimal Multivitamin – take 3 capsules with breakfast and 3 at lunch and 2 around 3 pm with a snack. This will help your skin healing, reduce stress, improve immune function and overall health.

 
These suggestions of nutritional and lifestyle changes will greatly improve your skin, outlook on life and make your tinea versicolor a thing of the past.
 
It takes more than Saprox to get rid of Tinea versicolor. Don’t get me wrong, it helps tremendously for surface treatment, but those affected with tinea versicolor have to understand that the root cause is much deeper than the skin’s surface and it appears that you understand this – which is great.
 
Keep me posted.
 
I look forward to good news.

Thank you Doctor for all your info.

My homeopath is putting me on a regimen of great vitamins too as I have bladder ( urethra symtoms ) relapse due to stress and now also insomnia due to worry of relapse ,the snake biting its tail.

Thank you I ll start with the saprox combined with the vitamins and things she will recommend and buy from you too. Thank you .

I also need to eat more proteins you are right. I tend to eat sugar when stressed , and it does not help. I will keep you posted i promise, thank you for being so kind.

Also do I apply it 2 times a day on skin? back chest and neck? Thanks a lot!
 
Apply 2x/day – AM and PM. Insomnia can be due to lack of protein intake, high sugar diets and low magnesium.
 
Bladder issues can be due to yeast overgrowth and high sugar intake.
 
Look forward to the good news.


Thank you Doctor,
 
My bladder problem, without infection is always when I am under heavy stress ) urethritis... and the more I worry about it and then I cant sleep because I worry and so starts the vicious cycle of fear of symptoms ,adrenaline fear adrenaline fear but I do agree that also getting support with supplements works well,I relapse under stress and worriness, i am a chronic worrier and I am reading alot of books on mindbody connection such as Dr Sarno and Tms if you know and Dr Weekes( hope and help for your nerves ) I know that low magnesium is also the culprit for nerves so my homeopath will give me thrusday a great multivitamins for women in their 40s and magnesium too .I am waiting to get your sulfur thing for tinea versicolor and plan to buy later on the shower thingy for chlorine.

Also i am taking now vitamins d3, drink more water and will get my multivitamin from my homeopath but magnesium.She ordered it before i saw your website but will continue to order it with you later.  I hope the sufur works.I also cut down on sugar starting today and eat more fruits ,veggies and proteins.What a work but worth it and I will keep you posted in 2,3 weeks after I apply the product.

Should I put it on my hair? is that necessary? I heard dermatologists mention that but they dont know as you do....
 
Thanks for all your time Dr Ben I sure will pass on your name and website

You can put the sulfuric mud in your hair but I wouldn’t – it may dry it out too much.

Instead, ensure you use the shower filter and take Biotin 5 to ensure protection. Biotin is very effective for scalp problems.
 
Hello Dr Ben,
 
I just wanted to let you know that I just got the saprox yesterday and started applying it on my back chest and neck as I have the fungus there.I will order another bottle of yours since I want to do it for at least 15 days and more ...
I saw my homeopath yesterday and she gave me all the vitamins and after seeing your web she told me how great you seem and will also recommend your website to people so we both want to thank you.I am also going to order the shower filter.'
My doctor wants me to start a diet ( i am not fat ,but for the reasons you mention) as I have stress ( and urethra tension being treated also with an homeopathic approach).The diet is higher in protein as you said. Hard for me to start the morning with proteins and a good breakfast but I am doing it . As you say, treating outside but inside too. I am also entering pre menopause so the vitamins she gave me have all the things you mentioned and other things for also perimenopause . So yes it is a change but I need to adress all the issues inside and outside and manage my stress an my thoughts which contribute to stress
I want to thank you most of all for all your time Doctor and I wish to help others by also giving your website( my best friend has toenail fungus so I will pass on the info on what I read ,I think saprox might work too.... lets see or the beer treatment you mention with other things in it...
Thanks again I will send you an email soon to keep you posted on my progress!
I wish you heath and the best!
You are a kind doctor

Great to hear you are in good hands with your homeopath!
 
If you do not usually have much appetite in the morning, that is due to sluggish digestion.
 
Talk with your homoepath about drinking a mixture of this before each meal to stimulate digestion and increase hunger:

• 1 to 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider vinegar
• Juice from a lemon wedge
• ½ cup water

 
Sip this mixture – slowly. Once you feel warmth in your stomach. Stop. Then proceed to eat once your appetite arrives – and it will shortly.
 
You’ll also notice improved bowel movements.
 
Look forward to hearing good progress!
 
Thank you for the referrals – and thank you to your homeopath also. Referrals are the best compliment!
 
Best,
Dr Ben

Thank you Dr Ben
I will forward your email to my homeopath, she is well informed and told me you know alot.
I started changing my diet and eat protein in the morning. Not easy but I do it ,and drink water throughout the day and vitamins and the whole protocol and religiously appling the mud on back chext stomach neck and arms.... where I have spots.
I like it, at times it stings where the spots were reddish and visible so I think it is working .It has been 2 days only and today I am going to your website for another bottle and the shower filter.  I really want to see results and need to be patient.

I have a question if you dont mind.

On my back the spots are white, at times pretty big but my skin is not that white. more olive but medium olive. Will the white spots remain and I have to retan later on? I am going for a month in Italy where it will be hot in the summer and I can avoid the sun but let me know what is best, I STILL HAVE 1 month 1/2 before I go but I dont want to get worse .... any suggestions ? on my shoulders those spots are visible but it seems like it is the pigmentation so hey look whiter, hard to tell .On my stomach they llok roung and reddish so therse i know are not healed.... and it is tinea versicolor as it was lloked at 6 months ago and tested by the dermato.

So I refused to take the tablets for liver anyway, totally agree with you! Thanks again and yes I do want to post pix when I am healed. Just wonder if I have to tan again or not . I don't mind avoiding the sun.

Do avoid the sun until the tinea versicolor spots are gone. The topical clay you are applying will kill the fungus. After 14 days, you may get into the sun again – but begin slowly.

It is the skin’s color which protects the skin from the sun’s potentially harmful UV rays.

The fungus destroys skin pigmentation – the melanin. They release a chemical that does that.

Once the fungus is gone, the chemical stops being released.

Once the chemical is no longer killing the melanocytes (melanin producing cells), your melanin will come back in time.

In order to speed this process up, Biotin 5 by Seeking Health is useful as biotin increases melanin production.  You might be interested in reading this

Vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamin D and vitamin A are all important in skin healing as well.
A quality multivitamin will supply a lot of these.

You will need to take at least 2,000 to 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 a day. One capsule of Vitamin D3 5,000 IU by Seeking Health is good as well as Vitamin D360 Drops by Seeking Health. One drop = 2,000 IU which is very potent and inexpensive. Both D3’s are very pure – no garbage in the capsule or liquid.

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria, also produce biotin. Thus, it makes sense that those who have low beneficial bacteria in their digestive systems are potentially low in biotin as well. Not having enough beneficial probiotic microorganisms in the intestines also make one susceptible to overgrowth of yeast, which depresses the immune system. Decreased immunity combined with low biotin-production is a perfect combination for tinea versicolor.

Thus, one should take ProBiota 12 Powder at ½ teaspoon after dinner for a month and then switch to ProBiota 12 capsules and take 1 capsule after dinner on going.

From digestive system to skin health – all united.

Best,
Dr Ben

The potential issue with chemo is that it is an oxidative treatment and Lypospheric Vitamin C is an antioxidant.

Now – I am a huge proponent of natural cancer treatments but I also support standard treatments when people believe in them and when the natural approach is not working.

I think it is ok to take Lypo C – it is simply a matter of timing. Best not to take it within a couple days before or after chemo – but likely can take it other times. Again – talk this over with your doctor.  I wish I could provide more information than that.

On another note:

• With Chemo, one needs to take L-Glutamine, Folinic acid
• Also need Pectasol
• Check estrogen levels
• Check heavy metals (after chemo) and get them out

HomocysteX by Seeking Health is useful to take as it provides a high quality form of Folate and other B vitamins that reduce homocysteine levels.

HomocysteX provides nutrients mentioned in this research.

Given that chemo depletes folate, it is very important to restore the levels.

Glutamine protects your intestines against the chemo so you can absorb your nutrients, not get mouth ulcers or digestive pains.

Consider taking 10 grams (2 scoops) three times a day in a large glass of filtered water between meals.

Research conducted about reducing side effects of chemotherapy with l-Glutamine here.

Pectasol Modified Citrus Pectin helps prevent metastases, read more here.

I highly recommend doing a phone consult with Dr David Wood at the Trinity Health Clinic.  He is well versed in cancer and I refer people to him often. He has helped a friend of mine recently with breast cancer. She is doing well.

I hope this informaiton helps you.

Best,
Dr Ben

Jeanne Achterberg, Ph.D. came to my medical school last Friday - a small woman with graying hairs and slightly funky clothing. Her appearance was not strikingly powerful. Yet when she stepped up to the podium and began speaking, all eyes were focused on her. She is an eloquent speaker with much to say.

When asked "why do research on imagery as imagery has been used successfully for centuries?" she stated: "I am a scientist in a scientifically driven society. Yes imagery works and we know it works. Science simply backfills what we already know. If we want to change how medicine operates, we must prove that these other options are effective."

She is with all the big wigs of medicine and those who currently shape it: 'Andy' Weil as she calls him, federal government health committees and world famous healers. Interesting mixture...

She stated that 60% of cancer patients are able to look back 16 months and locate a significant life stressor that may have triggered their cancer. She also stated that within 5 years of retirement, many people become ill and die as life loses focus, direction and meaning. Some women become ill when the kids move out of the house for good (I cannot understand that one as my mother was ecstatic!)

So if one can pinpoint a significant stressor in their life which leads to a worsening of their health, then there must be a way in order to reverse that. If we can cause disease manifesting in our bodies, then why cannot we manifest health????

That is a huge statement and one I find extremely powerful. We experience this every day; We see a policeman in our rearview mirrors and get a sick feeling in our gut. We get stressed at work leading to a migraine headache. Someone yells at us and we lose our appetite.

So why cannot we embrace someone and reduce blood pressure? Why cannot we meditate and lose the migraine headache? Why cannot we imagine our immune systems embracing cancer and remove it?

Well - we can. Our ability to perceive allows us to obtain health...and obtain illness.

Imagine this: Your significant other dies. You retire one year later. Your kids are moved out. Two years down the road, you are diagnosed with cancer of your bone marrow. Kids visit you every now and then and bring you flowers. You sit in a nursing home eating, drinking and conversing with folks believing that their last moments are near.

The cancer moves fast and involves many organs. You have no desires. You have no desire to live. Cancer moves on and the treatments only make you feel more ill.

Along comes Jeanne Achterberg, Ph.D. She spends an afternoon with you. This is what she might say and do to help you use the power of imagery:

What I'd like you to do is dive inside you bone marrow and find the cancer. What does it look like? How did it get there? Go inside yourself and see. Close your eyes and go.

You're afraid but you do it. Moments later you open your eyes widely and say you don't want to do that again.

What did you see?

"I saw angry women."

What were they doing?

"They were yelling at me."  So this patient wanted to go to counseling and find out more. The counselor asks:

What do you think will quiet the angry yelling women inside your bone marrow?

"A man."

What type of man?

"Well, there is this brute guy who really knows how to handle angry women. He is a fine orator and women respect him."

Ok. So what does this brute do? How will he go inside your bone marrow and talk with the angry women?

"He won't talk with them. He will embrace them until they stop yelling."

That sounds great. Now go inside your bone marrow and have Brute embrace the angry women.

Now isn't that powerful? Another powerful imagery tool is to draw. For example, the patient might be instructed to draw the cancer, draw the body's immune system fighting the cancer, draw the treatment fighting the cancer.

Those three images together speak volumes of how motivated the patient is to live. This simple tool shows with 100% accuracy patients who will die within 2 months. This has been researched.

For example, a patient drew a mountain range for the cancer. Then they drew fish for the immune system. Those two don't flow well together. The patient was told this and desired some assistance. It is then the counselor may step in and help strengthen the patient's imagery.

Cool.

I need to learn these tools and apply them to my patients. Finding the cause of the cancer and treating the cause is the treatment. Pouring chemicals down a throat or in a vein will not treat the cause. If harmful emotions played a part in causing the cancer, they must be addressed. Chemicals don't remove harmful emotions. We do.

In health,

Dr Ben

• Magnesium stearate
• Vegetable stearate
• Stearic acid
• Potentially others

The stearates and stearic acid encircle the powdered nutrients allowing them to slide.

To me, the issue is that magnesium stearate, in any of its forms, is used simply to lubricate the manufacturer’s machines.   A fat is a fat is a fat. Magnesium stearate = vegetable stearate = stearic acid.

Magnesium stearate, again, in any form, is a fat and may potentially impede absorption of the nutrients you are intending to absorb.

Fats are not easy to digest for many people – especially those without healthy stomach acid secretion, without a gall bladder or with a dysfunctional gall bladder.

People who may not be getting full absorption of nutrients by taking supplements with magnesium stearate in any form are:

• people taking antacids
• experiencing stress
• people with helicobactor pylori
• people often having anxious mindset or eating in a hurry
• without a gall bladder or with liver dysfunction
• people with nutrient deficiencies preventing the formation of stomach acid and/or bile

Thus, I think that vegetable stearate is still an unfavorable ingredient to have in any supplement or vitamin.

If the goal is to enhance the health of the individual, then companies should not use stearates. There are other ‘flow agents’ that do not impede absorption or are actually beneficial to the individual. These are the ‘flow agents’ I prefer: amino acids, cellulose, sand (as silicon dioxide).

This is why I formulate all my Seeking Health supplements without magnesium stearate, stearic acid or vegetable stearate.

Hope this helps you.

In health,
Dr Ben

Radioactive Fallout: Can Nutritional Supplements Help?

A Personal Viewpoint by Damien Downing, M.D.

(OMNS, May 10, 2011) The Fukushima nuclear accident has already been described as "the largest accidental release of radiation we have ever seen" and it's not over yet.

Already, radioactive plutonium, strontium and iodine have reached the continental USA.

So should we worry? And, what can we do about it?

When the earthquake and tsunami hit north-east Japan on 11th March, itdisabled all the multiple safety mechanisms at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Fires started in three of the six reactors, and 24 hours later a large hydrogen explosion caused the collapse of part of the structure. From then on, radioactive material would have been released to the atmosphere. This is reasonable to assume, despite the usual assurances from the operators, TEPCO, and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. Six days later, after all, traces of radioactive material were detected in Washington State [2] and then right down to California. This material can only have reached the USA by the airborne route.

Fukushima is now off the media map, replaced by dramatic political events. Contrast this with the coverage that was given to the Chernobyl disaster. Perhaps at that time there was a sense that the destruction of a nuclear power plant in the Ukraine was a metaphor for the failure of the Soviet Union. But Fukushima is, or will eventually prove to be, a far worse disaster. It is one that will be underplayed. The world is committed to nuclear power, and we will not be shown its true dangers. Do not expect to be told the whole truth when reading reassuring statements from industry or governments. Fukushima is affecting us all.

Radioactive elements released from Fukushima include plutonium, strontium, cesium and iodine. Ten days after the tsunami, Japanese scientists reported increased radioactive cesium and iodine in seawater offshore of Fukushima, andthey rapidly reached levels "more than 1 million times higher than previously existed." [3] More serious radiation levels are likely in the USA when this polluted seawater reaches the west coast, which is estimated to take from 18 months to 3 years.

More serious? Why?

Because:

• there will be radioactive elements that are ingested or absorbed by people, animals and plants
• they will biomagnify, concentrating up the food chain, as do all pollutants
• they won't go away; once inside us they will stay there

There are two different kinds of radiation: external, when you are exposed to radiation sources around you (the Fukushima clean-up workers are currently getting a lot of that), but which stops when you are no longer near the source; and internal, when a source of radiation gets into your body and stays there. This is much more serious because you are constantly exposed for much longer.Former Russian agent Alexander Litvinenko was killed in London that way in 2006- by being given, probably swallowing in a beverage, some highly radioactivepolonium. Traces of the same polonium were found on some airline seats, butnobody seems to have been harmed by sitting in them.

You may already have been exposed to (mostly-) depleted uranium back in 2003. Despite official denials, it does seem to be true that increases in uranium were detected in Berkshire, England nine days after the start of Shock and Awe [4]. To get there it must have traveled across the whole of the USA.

By the time it reaches the continental USA the radiation from Fukushima will be very spread out, so individual doses will be very small. But they will be on top of the radiation to which we are all exposed already: from X-rays, from flying at 30.000 feet, from radon in the ground, and on top of all our other toxic exposures such as mercury, pesticides and thousands of other chemicals. This is the "Who killed Julius Caesar?" phenomenon; the answer is at least 23 people, stabbing him at least 36 times. None of them could have been proved to have caused his death, but they all contributed to it. All the poisons to which we are exposed add up to harm us, too.

Epidemiologist Dr. Steven Wing makes the useful point that whether a dose of radiation is spread thickly across just a few thousand people, or much more thinly across tens of millions, around the same number of cancers will result. So although the increase in individual risk from Fukushima is likely to be tiny for any individual in the USA, it will still amount to a major public health problem.

The Chernobyl nuclear disaster certainly caused thousands of premature deaths in a sweep across northern Europe, and may have caused more than a million deaths [5]. But Fukushima is worse in several ways;

• At Chernobyl there were only 180 tons of nuclear fuel on-site, whereas at Fukushima there are thousands of tons.
• Chernobyl is 250 miles from the nearest sea, but Fukushima is on the coast. Already the radiation released to sea from there is 10 to 100 times worse than Chernobyl.
• Chernobyl was sealed into a "sarcophagus," although too late to prevent some airborne release. Fukushima is and will likely continue releasing radiation into the sea for some time. Best case scenarios (from the nuclear industry, of course) are saying it will take nine months to shut the reactors down and seal them. Skeptics say that you truly cannot "seal" a reactor with concrete, because the radioactive material will then go downwards, into the soil and the water table, and end up in the sea anyway.

You may say; "Surely the government has this all in hand?" Well, the strangething is that the EPA is set to revise its Protective Action Guides - the levels of radiation that it deems safe for us to be exposed to, from food,water, air or soil. Some of the upper limits are rising more than 1,000-fold,into the "will definitely give cancer to some people" zone. You can read more about this here [6], which also gives useful email addresses in case you want to express your views to the EPA. I know it looks like another one of "those" websites, but this is corroborated many times over elsewhere.

The European Union has moved fast to respond; on March 25 EU Regulation 297/2011 [7] came into force. Although this looks like a sensible precaution, requiring testing of foods from affected areas of Japan for radioactivity, it in fact introduces upper limits for radioactivity that are significantly higher than previous ones. Baffling.

What can you do?

For each radionuclide there is a different risk and a different set of measures. The US Department of Homeland Security funded a guidelines paper in 2006 [8].

Radioactive iodine-131 For this threat, we take regular iodine, to minimize the amount of the bad stuff that gets taken up by the thyroid. Various forms, such as potassium iodide, do work, but only if given before or within 12 hours of exposure. And, since I-131 has a half-life of 8 days, by the time it gets from Fukushima to the USA there won't be much radioactivity left. So don't worry about that one.

Uranium (half-life: thousands of years) is there in Fukushima in large quantities in the fuel rods. No reports of it being found in the environment yet, but there's plenty of time. And even depleted (non-radioactive) uranium is a highly toxic heavy metal, and one to which anybody who served in Gulf I or II, or in Bosnia or Kosovo, has probably been exposed. So a Fukushima exposure would just add to that toxicity. For uranium there are protocols worked out by the US military. Large doses of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda, in the orange box) minimize the damage caused by uranium and encourage its excretion in the kidneys. You can buy bicarb in bulk for less than a dollar per pound. It is certainly worth stocking up on. You can absorb it through the skin, so a good fistful in a warm bath, which you sit in for 15-20 minutes, is the simplest way to take it in.

Cesium-137 has a half-life of 30 years, and like uranium is still a toxic metal even when not radioactive. The US government stockpiles the chemical Prussian Blue for removing cesium. [9] Prussian Blue is ferric ferrocyanide - Fe7(CN)18 plus a load of water. It is not absorbed from the gut;it can only trap cesium (and also thallium) as it is recycled through the bileto gut to blood again. It works by cutting the biological half-life (time toget rid of half the total body burden) from about 80 days to 25. But that would still take 3 months to bring the level below 10% of starting, which is plenty of time to do harm. Prussian Blue was used in photography before we went digital, so there might be some left in your garage. Leave it there and DO NOT try this at home. Prussian Blue contains cyanide, a strong poison.

Plutonium: When uranium is used in a reactor it converts to plutonium, which is a big worry. Plutonium is extremely dangerous. It is estimated that 1 gram could kill ten million people. This is what CDC has tosay [10]:

Because it emits alpha particles, plutonium is most dangerous when inhaled. When plutonium particles are inhaled, they lodge in the lung tissue. The alpha particles can kill lung cells, which causes scarring of the lungs, leading to further lung disease and cancer. Plutonium can enter the bloodstream from the lungs and travel to the kidneys, meaning that the blood and the kidneys will be exposed to alpha particles. Once plutonium circulates through the body, it concentrates in the bones, liver, and spleen, exposing these organs to alpha particles. Plutonium that is ingested from contaminated food or water does not pose a serious threat to humans because the stomach does not absorb plutonium easily and so it passes out of the body in the feces.

What can you do about it? There are no grounds for thinking iodine or bicarbonate will work. The medical recommendation at present is DTPA, which is a version of EDTA - a chelating agent, specific to transuranic elements.

In each of the above exposures, of course you should get to a doctor, fast,and get the appropriate treatment. But an exposure coming from Fukushima is likely to be a dirty mix of any or all of these, so we need some universal measures. There are three worthwhile ones, all of which you can do for yourself:

Antioxidant vitamins

It's easy to get down the health store and buy some bottles of these, and in these circumstances an overdose is the last thing to worry about. While the shelves are full of nutritional and herbal products that might help, my personal advice would be to take;

Vitamin C (the body's main water-soluble antioxidant) approximately 3,000 to 5,000 milligrams, three times daily; option to combine water-soluble and oil-based forms.

Vitamin E (the main fat-soluble antioxidant) mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols, around 400 IU, once daily.

R Lipoic Acid (operates in both water and lipid compartments, spares both vitamins C and E) 100-plus mg, three times daily.

Glutathione

This amino acid is known to chelate certain minerals, but there's no evidence that it works on radioactive ones. Some experts say nothing does. However, it's a crucial antioxidant, which will protect against radiation damage and help to mop up the toxic molecules produced. Take loads; say 1,000 mg three times daily. And because it can be tricky to absorb, consider using the oil-based version that you rub into your skin.

Phosphatidylcholine

If you turned up in the ER in an eastern bloc country with acute radiation exposure, they would give you a IV shot of phosphatidylcholine. It is found in egg yolk, organ meats, and lecithin supplements and is easily absorbed into our membranes as a phospholipid. There are no human experiments I know of,thankfully, but this is backed up by some doctors:

Ionizing radiation first disturbs the phospholipid metabolism, then provokes severe inflammatory reactions, and finally leads to death.... The survival of rats exposed to lethal doses of radiation was clearly prolonged with phospholipid supplementation. [11]

You can get liquid or capsules; take at least a tablespoon or equivalentdaily, with food.

If you've got the time, it's wise to build all of these up slowly, or they may give you loose bowels for a few days. If you haven't got the time, you have bigger things to worry about.

References and Links:

1. Ken Buesseler, marine radiochemist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution;

http://articles.cnn.com/2011-04-26/opinion/buesseler.fukushima.radiation_1_radioactive-contaminants-chernobyl-nuclear-plant-waters?_s=PM:OPINION

2. http://www.epa.gov/japan2011/

3.http://ex-skf.blogspot.com/2011/03/fukushima-i-nuke-plant-radioactive.html

4. http://blog.imva.info/medicine/danger-concern-sanity

5. Yablokov AV. Mortality after the Chernobyl catastrophe. Ann N Y Acad Sci.2009 Nov;1181:192-216.

6.http://www.collapsenet.com/free-resources/collapsenet-public-access/item/723-fallout

7.http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2011:080:0005:0008:EN:PDF

8. http://www.acnmonline.org/docs/MMRSManual-Carol_Marcus.pdf

9. http://www.remm.nlm.gov/prussianblue.htm

10. http://emergency.cdc.gov/radiation/isotopes/plutonium.asp

11. Gundermann KJ. The "Essential" Phospholipids as a Membrane Therapeutic.Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Szczecin, Poland, 1993.

Additional Information Online:

http://web.me.com/mr21/iv-therapy/Radiation_English.html

http://media.iv-therapy.jp/?p=642

http://www.doctoryourself.com/fallout.html

Nutritional Medicine is Orthomolecular Medicine

Orthomolecular medicine uses safe, effective nutritional therapy to fight illness. For more information: http://www.orthomolecular.org

The peer-reviewed Orthomolecular Medicine News Service is a non-profit and non-commercial informational resource. To subscribe to OMNS, click here.

Perfect Detox Smoothie Mix
I will provide you the ingredients soon but before I do that, it is important that you understand a few things:

• Did you know that Spring is the best time to detox?
• Did you know that if you detox incorrectly, you make yourself feel worse?
• Did you know that most detox and cleansing programs are absolute garbage and possibly dangerous?
• Did you know that most doctors absolutely fail to understand how to detox their patients?
• Did you know that feeling bad while detoxing is a sign you are not doing it right?
• Did you know that you should feel awesome while detoxing!?

As a naturopathic physician specializing in Environmental medicine and Disease Prevention, detoxification is a passion of mine.

There is no way I can provide all the things you need to know here in order to detoxify properly and safely without a physician; but what I can do is get you started safely.

The key to detoxing safely is to start by limiting your exposures.

For only Two Weeks, I'd like you to do these things - just two weeks! That is only 14 days! If you find you 'cheated' part way through this detox, then simply restart the clock.
Believe me, I had to restart four times on my first detox. Every time I restarted, however, it was easier and easier to complete the 14 days.

1. Stop eating processed foods. Yes..that means cook and...make the Perfect Detox Smoothie!
2. Stop using fragrances
3. Only use natural soaps and cleaners
4. Eat organic or grow your own food
5. Buy organic in bulk food sections to save yourself a ton of money
6. Drink filtered water and herbal teas only. No coffee if you can and no sodas.
7. Don't read or watch the News as most news is negative and causes inflammation in your body
8. Stop the fast food
9. Cease restaurant dining altogether!
10. Avoid sugar
11. Avoid wheat
12. Avoid dairy
13. Avoid nuts
14. Eat steamed vegetables, soups, broths, stews
15. Quinoa is a great grain to eat.
16. Eat grass fed or wild beef, chicken, eggs, lamb, fish
17. Eat fresh fruits
18. Deep breathing when you remember
19. Go for some walks
20. Sleep 8 hours a night

It is vital that you have at least one bowel movement a day in order to clear out the toxins.

Drink this each morning upon waking up:

• In a half a cup of water, add 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar
• Squeeze the juice from one lemon wedge
• Sip slowly.

Why? It stimulates a bowel movement and it stimulates your digestion getting you ready to absorb all the nutrients from your Perfect Detox Smoothie!

Go check your email, read a book, brush your teeth. In a few moments, you likely will experience the urge to have a bowel movement. Listen to it and do it.

Now you are ready to begin mixing your Perfect Detox Smoothie.

To start your day off easily, packed with nutrition your body needs to begin detoxing, make the Perfect Detox Smoothie!

• Into a blender, add 3 cups of filtered water
• 1 scoop of BioCleanse Plus Powder
• 1 cup of frozen wild blueberries
• 1/2 cup of frozen wild or organic raspberries
• 1 tablespoon of Body Balance Oil
• 1 tablespoon of Chia Seeds
• 1 scoop of L Glutamine
• Mix well

Why is this the Perfect Detox Smoothie Mix?

1. It supports both parts of your liver: Phase 1 and Phase 2 (BioCleanse Plus Powder)
2. It heals your small intestine lining preventing toxins from penetrating through (L Glutamine)
3. It binds toxins released into your digestive system (Chia Seeds)
4. It protects your brain and cells from toxins (Body Balance Oil)
5. It uses pure water (water filter)
6. It is high in antioxidants and fiber (berries and chia seeds)
7. It is not too strong (only 1 scoop of BioCleanse Plus Powder)

This will last you until lunch typically or nearly so. If you find you are hungry between this and lunch, have a snack such as salad with Tahini dressing (fantastic taste).
Sprinkle more Chia Seeds on your salad and BodyBalance Oil (it tastes like salad dressing!) for increased protection from mobilized toxins.

Make sure you drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day. This is key to flush out the toxins your body is mobilizing from your fat, liver and tissues.

This does not mean buy bottled water in plastic. It does not mean drink tap water. It means drink filtered water out of a glass container or use a stainless steel water bottle.

For lunch, have some form of protein, vegetable and filtered water. This will have you feeling great.

If you can hack it, make another Perfect Detox Smoothie around 2 PM.

After 7 days of doing this, continue to make the smoothie, the only change you make is adding 2 scoops of BioCleanse Plus Powder to your smoothie in the morning and at 2 PM.

If you feel a headache, tired or weird:

1. Drink more filtered water
2. Skip drinking the Perfect Detox Smoothie once.
3. Deep breathing
4. Eat some Chia Seeds
5. Drink 1 tablespoon of Body Balance Oil with some food

At the end of two weeks, you will feel awesome. The key is to try and maintain some of the steps (1 through 20) on a daily basis!

Also make the Perfect Detox Smoothie at least once a week as maintenance. Why? Because, we are constantly bombarded by chemicals in our food, water, air, office, home and elsewhere thus it is important that we continue to detox daily in some form or another.

Want to enhance your Detox?

1. Sauna daily for 1 hour at about 110 degrees F. Make sure you replenish with electroytes
2. Take 2 capsules of BioCleanse Capsules with your AM smoothie and afternoon smoothie.
3. At the end of the first week, eat only fresh vegetables and fruits.
4. Have three Perfect Detox Smoothies a day to provide adequate protein intake.
5. Take 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder daily after dinner. These beneficial bacteria bind toxins.

You may experience symptoms that you don't like but they are highly favorable:

• You now have increased under arm odor (get into a sauna and that will lessen)
• Your skin is breaking out (get into a sauna to detox faster)
• Your breath is foul. (use a tongue scraper)
• You are more thirsty and in need of water more often. (drink!)

What you need to do now:

1. Obtain the suggested products above - for the standard Detox Smoothie Mix or the Enhanced Version.
2. If you don't have it yet, add the HealthE Membership to your cart so save 10% on this order.
3. Print out the 20 Steps and post them on your bathroom mirror, on your fridge
4. Prepare meal plan for lunch and dinner
5. Go shopping for whole foods
6. Get psyched up!
7. Tell your partner or roommates about it so they either get on board or don't eat their processed greasy food in front of you.

Any questions - any at all - post below. We will respond to you!

The ingredients will likely sell out pretty quickly so get your ingredients now. Not to worry as we will order more but if you are gung-ho on wanting to feel great, then buy them now to avoid backorders.

In health,

Dr Ben

Reminder!
HealthE Member? Log into your account and you automically save 10% off today from the retail price.
Not yet a HealthE Member? Become a HealthE Member today and get 10% off your entire purchase of non-sale items!

For ferrtin, I recommend Ultra-Hematinic. It contains a very gentle yet effective formula for low iron.

Have her take 1 capsule with breakfast and 1 at dinner.

For stomach pain after meals, consider having her take:
PreGestion: Take 1 capsule with a meal. If she still notices symptoms after her meal, she should take 2 capsules. The more she eats, the more capsules she should take. Start low and work up as needed. Do not exceed 3 capsules per meal. Again, start with 1 capsule.

Pro-Digestion Intenstive: have her take 1 capsule for smaller meals and 2 capsules with larger meals.

Both PreGestion and Pro-Digestion help break down, digest and allow her body to absorb the nutrients from her food.

ProBiota 12 capsules: have her take 2 capsules after dinner. Do this on an ongoing basis. This helps restore her benefitical bacteria to her digestive system. This is especially important for her long term health, immune support and digestive wellness.

These four products should help quite a bit.

If your mother has pain after eating fats, she should consider taking Taurine. At meals containing fat, take 1 to 2 capsules.

If you notice her stomach pain is worse after eating anything with wheat or dairy products, she should discontinue eating these products for two weeks and see how her digestion and stomach pain is. Many people do not do well with wheat these days due to the gluten.

In health,
Dr Ben

Hello -

Iron levels need to checked by your midwife or physician.

Levels should stay within the normal range. If you are supplementing with 30 mg of Iron a day, that should be fine unless you have an iron-storage condition such as hemochromatosis.

Best,
Dr Ben

Most tablets irritate because they do not break down easily. They simply sit and sit - especially in individuals with low stomach acid, acid reflux, taking antacids, or stressed.
 
I have seen x-rays where a tablet has made it all the way down to the person's lower sigmoid colon completely intact. This is very common - especially with calcium tablets.
 
If a vitamin or supplement sits in one area of the stomach or digestive tract, it can feel like it is burning or 'stuck'.
 
We have teeth because we need to chew our food and allow our bodies to absorb nutrients from smaller pieces of food or vitamins.
 
I do not believe in tablets of any sort which is why my company, Seeking Health, does not have any vitamins or minerals available in tablet form.
 
A side-note, one should never take a calcium supplement by itself. Research findings demonstrate that calcium taken without any nutrients supporting its absoprtion (vitamin K, silica, vitamin D3, magnesium, boron) cause the calcium to remain in the blood stream vs getting to the bone. Excess calcium in the blood facilities hardening of the arteries. So - never take a calcium supplement without these additional nutrients.
 
When a calcium supplement contains these other nutrients, they are safe to take as the calcium does what it is supposed to do: gets absorbed and goes into your bone and cells.

With a fatty meal, I recommend the addition of Taurine.
 
Taurine is a key component of bile which is made by the liver and goes into the gall bladder. Bile is released when there is fat in a meal. It is best to support the organ which makes the enzymes to digest fat rather then simply giving enzymes.
 
Many are taurine deficient and replenishing taurine stores is easy.
 
Simply take 1 capsule of Taurine with a meal containing fat. This should benefit your fat-digesting abilities immensely.
 
I do not recommend increasing the dose of Pro-Digestion given your sensitivity to strong enzymes.
 
This way, you can help nourish your liver and maintain a healthy amount of enzymes.
 
Best,
Dr Ben

Any of our probiotics will make the trip. They can withstand warm temperatures for some time, in fact:
Any ProBiota probiotic will maintain or exceed label potency for a year if kept refrigerated.  If kept at average room temperature, they will remain potent for 4-6 months.  At higher temperatures (86 F), they will maintain potency for about 2 months.  These claims are verified by independent, real-time viability tests.

I do recommend shipping FedEx International Priority or USPS Priority International to make the trip faster.

I recommend the ProBiota 12 Powder. This is most cost effective and easiest for your twins to take. It tastes great so they likely won't have issues with taste.

For your twins:

• After dinner, give them each about a half full 1/4 teaspoon. You may sprinkle it their last bite of food or you can put directly into their mouth. I always put directly into my child's mouth. It has become routine for us so they expect it and enjoy it.  
• Do this until they are 6 years old. Once they are 6, you may switch them to taking 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 after dinner. This may be easiest for them. You may also continue giving a half-full 1/4 teaspoon.
• A half-full 1/4 teaspoon provides about 25 billion beneficial bacteria which is a healthy amount.

For you:

• After dinner, take 1/4 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder. Do this for one week.
• After one week, take 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder after dinner. Do this for two months.
• Mix 2 scoops of ProBiota Immune into a bit of applesauce or something tasty. Stay on this continually as it supports healthy bacteria in your digestive system which are key in reducing autoimmune symptoms.
• To repair your digestive systems lining, I highly recommend taking 2 scoops of L-Glutamine mixed in 8 ounces of water 1 hour before breakfast and also 1 hour after dinner or before sleep. Taking L-Glutamine between meals allows it to be more readily absorbed by your intestines thereby obtaining the full healing benefit.
• Eliminate wheat from your diet completely. This is a tall order but one I highly recommend. To understand why and how to do it, read The Paleo Solution by Robb Wolf.
• If you can eliminate dairy from your diet as well, do so. Again, this is explained in the Paleo Solution by Robb Wolf.

Do keep in touch with me how you are doing. We can make some changes to these recommendations when needed.

In health,
Dr Ben

 
I am not a fan of colloidal silver. I do not agree with ingesting heavy metals such as this to increase activity of our bodies. I rather use nutrients which the body recognizes and utilizes naturally.
 
Boosting white blood cells is needed when they are low. Too high is not good.
 
Vitamin C is great.
 
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent digestive aid but not sure if it affects white blood cell count.
 
Vitamin B6 is good - make sure it is a quality B6.  This article may be of some interest.
 
A quality multivitamin is a good idea to support overall immunity and not imbalance a specific nutrient.
 
I suggest you consider:
Lypospheric Vitamin C
Optimal Multivitamin
Magnesium Plus
 
 
Combined, these should support increasing your white blood cells.
 
In health,
Dr Ben

In order for Lactase Drops to work effectively, the food item must contain lactose.

Let's start with the lactose-containing foods in your question:
Cottage Cheese or any lactose containing food: In order to eat cottage cheese, place 3 to 5 drops of Lactase Drops directly on your first spoonful of cottage cheese. Chew well and swallow. Proceed to enjoy your cottage cheese!

The amount needed depends on your severity of lactose intolerance. Our Lactase Drops have 1960 lactase units per 7 drops. We are making a new batch right now which will have 2000 lactase units per 5 drops. The potency will increase from 280 units per drop to 400 per drop. 

Milk: You may do the same with the milk as with the cottage cheese and that is adding 5 to 7 drops of Lactase Drops in a small amount of milk and drink. Then proceed to drink the rest of the milk. People find that they tolerate the milk better if they add the Lactase Drops to a container of milk, let it sit 24 hours and then drink. I suspect these people are more lactose intolerant and have lower levels of stomach acid.

Eggs and Broccoli: These Foods do not have Lactose
Eggs: true eggs and not an egg substitute, are lactose free thereby contain no lactose. Lactase Drops would not benefit anyone who is allergic to eggs or cannot digest the proteins in eggs very well.

Egg substitutes may have dairy in them. If they do, then simply place 2 to 4 drops of Lactase Drops on your first bite of eggs and you're good to go.

If someone is allergic to eggs or otherwise intolerant to them, it is advised to avoid them completely.

If someone just does not digest eggs very well at all, then one will need to improve their digestion.

Improving digestion requires enhanching stomach acid and increasing secretion of pancreatic enzymes. Enhancing bile from the liver's gall bladder is needed when one eats meals containing fat.

1. Stomach acid can be enhanced with PreGestion by Seeking Health. Take 1 capsule of PreGestion with a meal to help breakdown the food allowing one to absorb it.

How to tell if you need stomach acid?

• Do you have a low appetite?
• Do you belch after meals?
• Do you bloat after meals?
• Are you sensitive to a ton of different foods?
• Does eating a meal that is dense in protein, such as meat, feel like a lead brick in your stomach?
• You used to be able to digest anything but now as you have aged, you cannot eat like you used to?
• Do you suffer from constipation?

If you answered YES to any of the questions above, then PreGestion by Seeking Health is worth trying during meals. Start with one capsule of PreGestion during a meal. If no benefit, try taking two capsules during the next meal you eat. If still not benefit, try three capsules during the next meal. The larger the meal, the more capsules of PreGestion you need.

Do not exceed taking 3 capsules at once of PreGestion. One may take 3 capsules of PreGestion three times a day with a meal. It is not needed typically to take PreGestion with a snack.

2. Pancreatic enzymes and Salivary enzymes can be enhanced with Pro-Digestion Intensive by Seeking Health. Taking 2 capsules of Pro-Digestion Intensive during a meal helps breakdown lactose, carbohydrates, gluten, casein, protein, and vegetable fibers and plant cell walls.

How to tell if you need to increase salivary enzymes or pancreatic enzymes?

• Do you get gas and bloating after meals?
• Does eating carbohydrates make you not feel well after a meal?
• After eating salads, you don't feel well?
• Do you feel distended after meals?
• Do you suffer from alternating diarrhea and constipation?

 If you answered YES to any of the questions above, then Pro-Digestion Intensive is worth giving a shot during mealtime. Take two capsules during mealtime.

So, in summary:

1. Lactase Drops will help you digest the lactose in cottage cheese

2. PreGestion will help digest the eggs and cottage cheese.

3. Pro-Digestion Intensive will help digest the eggs and broccoli.

To enhance overall digestion, support more than 70% of your immune system, help prevent absorption of toxins, help prevent the buildup and proliferation of yeast and to increase your vitamin B and vitamin K levels, consider ProBiota 12 by Seeking Health.

ProBiota 12 contains 50 billion beneficial bacteria across 12 strains in a base of a prebiotic. All are protected against stomach acid with a natural polysaccharide and will be delivered to their proper location within your digestive system.

If you have not taken an effective probiotic, take 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder each night after dinner. Then once that bottle is gone, switch to taking 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 by Seeking Health after dinner. Do this every night regularly. The importance of probiotics is vast and I am finding probiotics to be as important as an effective multivitamin.

Questions? Thoughts? Comments? Please do ask below.

In health,

Dr Ben

What are some preventative and recuperative methods for the Flu?

How to prevent the flu?
It is possible to prevent the flu though some simple, yet highly effective, lifestyle, dietary and supplement methods. Not only is possible to prevent the flu using these three methods, it is possible to help prevent colds, general fatigue and other common illnesses.

How to Prevent the Flu using Lifestyle Methods

1. Ensure proper sleep. If you cannot sleep well, this must be improved. Taking magnesium and vitamin B6 before sleep has helped many. Magnesium Plus contains both in a good amount. Also eating a protein snack before bed helps many as well if the issue is waking up in the middle of the night.
2. Engage in some form of active activity: aerobic and weight training are both excellent.
3. Reduce stress as stress reduces immune function
4. Rebounding is an excellent way to exercise, have fun and reduce stress. Myself and my kids are witness to this daily as we have a rebounder in our living room.
5. Eat every two hours to balance blood sugar as high blood sugar and elevated cortisol weakens immunity
6. Maintain a clean environment which is free of mold, musty carpets, polluted air and chemicals in general.
7. Be happy. Watch comedy, hang out with friends, play sports, read books, write, whatever you enjoy - do.

How to Prevent the Flu using Dietary Methods

1. Have some form of protein with each meal. Protein balances blood sugar and eating frequencly reduces the urge to binge on sugar which shuts down your immune system.
2. Chew. Chew. Chew. Chewing your food is what helps your body assimilate the nutrients from food. Simply eating nutritious foods is not enough as your body has to absorb the nutrients from them. So chew.
3. Limit the amount of drinks you have during meals as too much fluid in your stomach dilutes stomach acid and pancreatic enzymes thereby reducing the ability for your body to absorb nutrients.
4. Eat foods which are brightly colored as they contain high amount of antioxidants. Blueberries, kale, raspberries, sweet potatoes (with the skin) are some excellent choices.
5. Sugar, refined foods and processed foods have little to no nutrient content. These foods simply are easy to grab and fill up the void in the stomach. They also make you 'feel good' but nutritionally, they deplete you setting you up for the flu, colds, sinus infections and other common illnesses.
6. Whole food meals are ideal. The more you cook, the better you'll feel and the more you will be able to prevent the flu and overcome it quickly.

How to Prevent the Flu using Vitamins and Supplements

1. Vitamin D3: It is interesting to note that the flu and colds are common when the sun is not out that much. During the darker months, adults should take 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 a day and kids should take 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 for every 50 pounds of body weight.
2. Glutathione: Ensuring that your body has adequate levels of glutathione is paramount. Healthy lungs, kidneys, liver and brain have high levels of glutathione; people with the flu, lung conditions, smokers or chronically ill have low glutathione levels. Increase glutathione levels by taking N-acetyl-l-cysteine. Taking supplements containing glutathione are very expensive and not that effective as the glutathione can break down if it not bound in lyposomes. Lyposomal glutathione is effective at increasing glutathione levels as is lyposomal vitamin C. However, I find that the most effective and least expensive method to increase glutathione is via n-acetyl-l-cysteine. Ensure that you take n-acetyl-l-cysteine with a large glass of water.
3. Probiotics for Adults and Kids over 3 yrs old: Given that 70% of our immune system comes from the beneficial bacteria in our digestive tract, it is imperative that we maintain these bacteria. If one takes or has taken antibiotics, the amount of beneficial bacteria is very low causing one to be susceptible to getting the flu and getting the cold. Even if one has not had antibiotics, the amount of beneficial bacteria are low as most beneficial bacteria are transient and temporarily reside in our digestive tract. This is why it is important to constantly replenish beneficial bacteria in high amounts. Taking a probiotic with 1 billion or 5 billion beneficial bacteria does nothing. One needs a minimum of 25 billion, in my opinion, to make a difference. Why so many? Our digestive tract has over a trillion bacteria in it. The ratio then is apparently slanted to non-beneficial bacteria if one is not taking multiple strains and billions of bacteria. I recommend taking one to two capsules of the multiple strain probiotic, ProBiota 12, after dinner. Always take probiotics with a meal and after dinner is the best time.
4. Probiotics for Infants and Toddlers under 3 years old: The same benefits apply to infants and toddlers; however, the importance is even greater as infants are born with nearly sterile digestive systems making them highly susceptible to flus, colds and yeast infections. Give your child at least 1/4 teaspoon of ProBiota Infant daily after breastfeeding or a meal.

Following the methods described here, one can easily increase their ability to prevent the flu, prevent colds and get over the flu and cold quickly.

The only things I would like to add:
If you get a fever with your flu, make sure you only eat broths and vegetable juices. Eating heavy meals such as meats, beans and nuts are too hard to digest. This takes away from your body allowing it to overcome the flu and cold.

If you have a lot of diarrhea or vomiting with your flu, ensure you are getting plenty of electrolytes otherwise you will get dizzy, fall down or head to the ER possibly.

Do post your comments, thoughts and questions below.

What do you find helps you prevent the flu, prevent the cold or overcome it? Did the above suggestions help you? Please comment.

In health,

Dr Ben

Dr Ben, My friend recently tore his ACL (not completely), is there anything aside from surgery that would help him heal? Also, would a torn MCL be similar?

Given his age, associated conditions and desired time to heal, there may be non-surgical treatments for ACL tears.

I advise him to seek advice from a naturopathic physician who specializes in sports medicine. If he asks a surgeon, surgery will be the answer.

Some non-surgical treatment alternatives which may help heal his partially torn ACL or MCL:

1. He will need to wear a brace as determined by his doctor
2. Limit side to side movements along with knee rotation; only move the leg forward and backward.
3. Do Contrast Hydrotherapy on the Knee
4. Take ligament support supplements as directed by his doctor.
5. Consider MBT shoes once the ACL ligament has healed. The MBT shoe will increase his knee strength.
6. Do physical therapy as prescribed by his doctor.

These suggestions for non-surgical treatment for a parital ACL tear may prove useful for him.  In the instance of a torn MCL, number 2 is very important.  Be very careful not to strain your knee medially (inward towards the other knee) or laterally (towards the outside) and not to rotate the joint.

Do post comments, questions and updates on how he is doing.

In health,

Dr Ben

• If I said vitamin D3 needs to fall within ‘normal’ limits, that simply means it should not be over the upper limit for most individuals. There are some exceptions to this rule but those require physician supervision – closely. Some of these conditions are cancer, autoimmune, depression and seasonal affective disorder to mention a couple offhand.
• The lower normal limit of vitamin D3 is too low for people especially if they have an autoimmune condition, are depressed or are acutely ill or chronically ill.
• I like to see Vitamin D3 levels around 80 or so.
• If vitamin D3 levels are too high, this can cause high blood levels of calcium which are dangerous.
• I was just at a medical conference in San Diego with www.AAEMOnline.org and we discussed vitamin D3. Dosing vitamin D3 too high too frequently actually shuts down the vitamin D3 receptors and absorption does not occur! Thus, one must take vitamin D3 more consistently rather than in large bolus doses. In winter time months, I typically recommend 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 per day for an adult OR 1,000 IU per 25 pounds of body weight overall.
• If a vitamin D3 blood tests shows a high level, then the vitamin D3 is being absorbed. Whether it is being utilized well is a different story. There is controversy around the vitamin D3 blood test; however, it is a generally decent indicator – I believe.
• If an individual needs to have higher doses of vitamin D3, then they need to be checked every month or every two months for hypercalcemia or high blood calcium levels. If blood calcium levels are high, then the individual is taking too much vitamin D3 and vitamin D3 should be stopped until the blood calcium levels return to normal.

I recommend taking 1 capsule daily with food of Vitamin D3 5,000 IU by Seeking Health.

Higher levels of vitamin D3 increase calcium absorption. Given this, magnesium deficiency becomes an issue. If magnesium becomes deficient, then vitamin D3 utilization becomes an issue. So we are full circle once again vitamin D3 deficient and magnesium deficient.

For those suffering from seasonal affective disorder, depression, anxiety, are taking high levels of vitamin D3 or are seeming not to be utilizing vitamin D3 well even though lab tests show normal values of D3, then the cofactors for Vitamin D3 need to be addressed. The most important cofactor for Vitamin D3 is magnesium (along with nearly 300 other reactions in the body).

Magnesium Plus is what I recommend for those taking high amounts of Vitamin D3 or are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above regarding depression, SAD, anxiety. Consider taking 1-2 capsules of Magnesium Plus a day to restore magnesium levels and reduce the symptoms of these conditions.

If you have further comments, please do share.

In health,

Dr Ben
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A: I am happy to help. I recommend determining food intolerances and allergies – cow milk and soy milk are common.

Breast feeding is the best and do it often – every few hours. It is hard on you at first but baby will gain more weight. You will be able to make more breast milk by using the herb Feverfew and also eating more protein. Whey Protein is best but if you cannot do dairy, then use yellow pea protein powder as that is quite nutritious as well.

Fish Oil for baby is a good idea along with Vitamin D3 and a potent probiotic.

I highly recommend giving baby one quarter (1/4) teaspoon of ProBiota Infant during one feeding every day up until she is 2 years old.

If you are breast feeding, you should be taking about 6,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day. This will be enough for you and baby.
Vitamin D360 has 2,000 IU per drop so 3 drops a day with a meal is an easy way for you to get your D3.

Should you need more help, do ask or schedule a consult.

In health,

Dr Ben
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October 2006 I had uterine cancer and had a Laparoscopic hysterectomy. I did not have radiation or chemo. Prior to my surgery, I was told I was making too much estrogen. Is Myomin safe for me to take? Thank you.

Hello -

I am glad to hear your uterine cancer was removed successfully.

You're absolutely right that you need to address the elevated estrogen as increased estrogen levels are a major risk of uterine cancer and other common female-related cancers such as breast cancer.

Before any product, lifestyle or dietary change is done, I recommend measuring your estrogen levels and the different types of estrogens prior to starting any changes so you have a baseline to compare how you estrogen levels are responding. There are harmful estrogens and beneficial estrogens. It is very important to know which estrogens we are dealing with so we can act accordingly.

Myomin is safe to take if your estrogen levels are elevated. Myomin is useful for those with mild to moderate elevation of estrogen. Begin with the recommended dosage on the product label which is 2 to 3 capsules 2 to 3 times a day. Take Myomin with right after meals.

For those with higher levels of estrogen, a more potent product may be needed to break down circulating estrogens. Diindolemethane (DIM) and Indole-3-Carbinol (I-3-C) are known to metabolize estrogen effectively. I formulated a product called DIM+I3C which has both DIM and I-3-C in it as I found women with more severely raised estrogen levels were not getting the results they needed with Myomin alone. Consider taking 1 capsule in the AM and one capsule in the PM. Take with food.

It is important to monitor your estrogen levels. Getting the estrogen hormone level opimized is what we want and that entails a few things.

1. Ensuring your liver is functioning well. If your liver is lethargic, you will not be able to process hormones, toxins or fats well. This leads to a build up of toxins, some of which are estrogen mimics. Estrogen mimics are at times many times more potent than your own natural estrogen. These estrogen mimics are a huge risk for estrogen based cancers. Thus, optimizing your liver function and encouraging elimination of toxins is paramount in optimizing your overall estrogen balance.
• I recommend n-acetyl-cysteine as it is a major nutrient used by the liver in removing toxins. Consider taking 2 capsules of n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) twice a day with a small amount of food. There is a side benefits of NAC. NAC not only helps metabolize toxins from your liver, but it is also excellent immune and lung support.
• Each morning make a mixture of 1 teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with the juice from 1/2 a lemon. Dilute with 1 cup of filtered water. Sip slowly before meals. Do daily. This mix helps fight oxidation, stimulates digestion and bowel movements. Ensuring that the bowels are moving stool through well is key in eliminating toxins and estrogen. Constipation leads to toxins being reabsorbed through the intestines and back into your blood stream.
2. Maintaining an optimum weight is key. Adipose tissue makes estrogen and also secretes inflammatory signals which increase the production of estrogen even further. Being overweight is a risk factor for estrogen-based cancers.
• Optimizing weight is obtained by eating whole food meals
• Avoiding fast food
• Avoiding processed foods
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals which stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings and binging
• Eating protein with each meal to stabilize blood sugar
• Detox to remove toxins which are known to increase weight.
• Exercise by walking or some form of aerobic exercise a minimum of 30 minutes a day.
• Do not eat large meals at night but rather for breakfast and lunch. This is because calories are not burned much in the evening. Eat the most food during the hours you are most active.
• Have a simple fast weight loss smoothie in the morning to get your going quickly and with optimum nutrients.
3. Limit your exposure to estrogen-mimicing toxins called xenoestrogens
• Common estrogen-mimicing toxins are: bisphenol-a, pthalates, many pesticides, herbicides to name a few. These estrogen-mimicing toxins are called xenoestrogens.
• Do not eat canned food except if it is from Eden Foods. Eden Foods does not use BPA in their canned foods.
• Do not eat drink or otherwise cook with plastic containers. I highly recommend glass or stainless steel storage containers, stainless steel water bottles, stainless steel straws and other stainless steel or glass products.
• Get into a sauna at least a few times a week at low temperature - around 120 F - for as long as you can comfortably tolerate. Saunas are the most effective method to remove numerous toxins effectively through your bodies largest detoxification organ: your skin. At the first sign of fatigue, headache, nausea, get out of the sauna. I highly recommend the Far Infrared Sauna by High Tech Health. Mention Dr Benjamin Lynch or HealthE Goods to receive $500 off your sauna purchase. (disclosure: I receive a small commission for this recommendation) I personally own and use the 3 person sauna often.
4. Take additional nutrients
• Myomin or DIM+I3C will not reduce the risk of cancer. NAC helps reduce the risk even more but additional nutrients are needed.
• Given that you are a women, I recommend Women's Nutrients by Pure Encapsulations as your multivitamin. It contains breast protection nutrients, eye support, cardiovascular support and daily nutrients in their bioactive forms.
• Fish oil that is lab tested for purity and contains potent amounts of DHA and EPA is beneficial at reducing inflammation and supporting the formation of healthy cell membranes. I recommend Finest Pure Fish Oil by Pharmax.
• Sprinkle Chia Seeds on your salads along with excellent tasting Nutritional Yeast for extra vitamin B's and healthy oils.
• Research shows that taking 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3 reduces the risk of getting many types of cancer: breast, lung, colon are a few.
• Take a look at a few studies related to cancer and vitamin D.
5. Drink Pure Water
• Water is one of the fastest ways to introduce toxins into your body, besides breathing, touching and eating.
• Ensure you drink, cook, shower and bathe with filtered water.

These recommendations should help reduce your elevated estrogen levels which reduces your risk of other estrogen-related cancers.

Should you have any questions, you may post a comment below or schedule a free 15 minute phone consult with me.

In health,

Dr Ben
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• Adrenal Support Plus
• I discussed this on the consult but if she takes a multivitamin and Bio-Focus, Floradix, & Fish oil, I don’t think she will need it.
• BioFocus Rice Berry – take 1-2 scoops of it. Place in 1-2 cups of filtered water. Add frozen blueberries, 1 tablespoon of Finest Fish oil, Chia Seeds, Almonds, maybe a touch of maple syrup if she likes. Drink every morning. For mood, protein, endurance.
• It says it is for over activity – while that is true, that is not why I recommend it. I recommend it as it will help support her mood and nourish her with needed protein quickly in the mornings.
• Floradix Iron – take as directed on the bottle to restore likely anemia.
• This should help restore her menses, energy and support her mood.
• Nutritional Yeast – take about 1-2 tablespoons a day for nutrients and high dose B vitamins.
• She may like the taste of this straight. I do. It is especially good on soups, salads and popcorn.
• Nutrient 950
• Excellent multivitamin with loads of nutrients for her.
• Consider taking 2 capsules AM with breakfast and 2 at lunch. Do not take past 3 pm as it will keep her awake due to the B vitamins.
• This is to support her mood, energy, headaches
• Finest Pure Fish Oil
• Consider adding 1-2 teaspoons to her smoothie in the AM. Start with 1 teaspoon and work up to 2 tsp. See how she does digesting it.
• If she handles 2 tsp ok, then have her on that amount for 1 month. Then reduce to 1 tsp a day.
• This will help her headaches and support her overall health.
• If she desires energy bars, we have a number of good ones to choose from.
• I recommend the Crispy Rice, Chocolate Mint, Spice by Biogenesis personally. They have good nutrients and pack protein, healthy fats and carbs.
• For electrolytes, she can pick up a box of Emergen’C packets and put in her filtered water.
• Don’t have her drink from plastic water bottles. You likely know this.
• We have some cool stainless steel ones to choose from.
• If you’d like a physician-grade electrolyte, consider this one.
• Add as directed on the label. Add some jam to the water to taste if she likes.
• This electrolyte tastes better and is also physician-grade. She may prefer this.
• She should be taking 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3 a day. This will help her styes. So will the multi with selenium and zinc.
• Have her take 1 drop per day. One Drop! Not dropperful.

Should you have questions, please do email.

Wanted to get you this before I left – it’s pretty important. Sorry for the shortness but it’s late ;)

In health,

Dr Ben
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• Run a hot bath
• Use a chlorine filter to remove the chlorine. This is especially important for your little ones so they don't get the toxic chlorine gas from the hot bath.
• Add 1 liter of Moor Mud
• Add 5 pounds of Epsom Salt (go to a animal supply feed store and buy Epsom salt in large 25 bags called Magnesium sulfate)
• Bathe in this daily for a week. You will need 5-7 liters of Moor Mud.
  

In order to restore your skin's natural flora, we have to nourish it with the Moor Mud and Epsom salt while also killing the MRSA with the same two products.

The Moor Mud will help re-establish healthy bacteria on your skin.

The Epsom salt bath in that concentration will knock MRSA on its butt.

I also recommend using a probiotic soap. I just thought of that as well. Didn't think of it till now. Dr Ben Kim has some on his website here.

Do you have any redness or signs of MRSA on your skin now?

I would take a very potent probiotic such as ProBiota 12 Powder. Consider taking 1/2 teaspoon at dinner time for one month. This will boost your immune system as 70% of our immune system resides in our intestines.

Should you have further questions, please do ask.

In health,

Dr Ben
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If your thyroid is low, kelp is great but it will not help completely. You will need to support your adrenal glands as well. I recommend you consider taking Adrenal Support by Gaia Herbs. Consider taking 2 capsules in the AM with breakfast. Low adrenals put extra burden on your thyroid gland making it become hypothyroid. Nourish the adrenals and they will support your thyroid and help optimize its function.

Do you know the lab values of your thyroid? TSH, T4, T3, Anti-TPO, Anti-TG?

A potent multivitamin that supports balanced female hormones and your liver will support reduction in uterine fibroids. I have used Opti Gyn for years with women experiencing any type of female hormone imbalance. Consider taking 3 tablets at breakfast and 3 at lunch. You will not have to take all 8 tablets. That is too much I believe.

I have combined the other products I recommended in an earlier email here:

 The product I recommend that is stronger than Myomin, is DIM + I3C.

Consider taking 3 drops of Vitamin D360 which is 6,000 IU a day of vitamin D3.

Consider taking 3 drops a day of Liquid Iodine.

Measuring your lab values of Iodine is a good idea. Have you done that?

You may order these from the website. Simply click the links above and they will take you to the products.

If you’ve further questions, please do ask.

In health,

Dr Ben
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I'm so glad I did this call you were great!  I'm going to order everything on this list today from your website.  Your prices even beat Amazon (yea!).
 
Before ordering, I would really love to ask 3 questions and if you recommend something I can add to my order.
 
1)  At 48 I'm in peri-menopause - my periods are irregular, light and about every 45 days (last yr they were regular and every 28 days).  before my period (or atleast sometimes my body acts like I'm going to have a period but i don't) I get a horrible pain kinda like a headache but at the back of my neck/head very tight tension may last for 2 days sometimes and some nausea then usually after period 3 days after I get it again.  I know it is hormone related but don't know which hormone I need.  In the past I tried progesterone cream and hated that.  Anything you recommend?

• I recommend OptiGyn.  Take 2 capsules AM and 2 capsules at lunch. It is an incredible product. Only issue – the tablets are large. OptiGyn is great at balancing hormones.  Vitamin B6, Fish oil and Magnesium are all needed as well for pain reduction during menses. Fish Oil I’ve already recommended. The Magnesium Plus contains B6 and Magnesium. Consider taking 1 capsule at lunch and 1 at bedtime daily. This is to prevent menstrual cramps.
  

2)  I've had these flat warts on my upper thighs on top for about 6 years they are very small size of pin head and nobody notices them but me.  If I'm out in the sun they are more noticeable.  They are not from shaving b/c I don't shave that area.  they are from the knees up.  Dermatologist say they will go away on their own or freeze them off.  There are too many to do that prob about 200 or so.  Funny thing is my sister who is in another state and I hardly see has them too same area - she had some froze off and left scars.  I think it is a topical virus - it hasn't spread to any other parts of my body - i've tried putting aloe vera on them and DMSO but nothing seems to work.  Any recommendations?

• I believe that is a virus also. Vitamin A, Vitamin D, good multivitamin, probiotics.  If I haven’t recommended the probiotic I developed, I will do so here: ProBiota 12 Powder. Take ½ teaspoon at dinner time for one month (1 bottle is all you’ll need). 
• The ProBiota 12 Powder will enhance your immune system which should help reduce the flat warts. Vitamin A is key though. If you are not absorbing your nutrients well, the Pro-Digestion will help that. The lack of nutrient absorption is common in those with warts as vitamin A, D and E are fat soluble making them harder to absorb. The OptiGyn will help enhance your liver function also improving absorption of fat soluble vitamins.
• More than 70% of our immune system is located in our digestive tract. Thus, probiotics are key to improving immune function. And a healthy immune function will help get the flat warts gone.
  

3)  I'm doing acupuncture 2x week along with a tonic this Chinese doc makes for me.  Something seems to be working not sure if it is the acupuncture, the tonic, or just me adding exercise and eating more warming foods.  Acupuncture is expensive and if its not what's helping I would love to eliminate it.  I will definitely be doing the moxibustion myself.  What are your thoughts on acupuncture?

• Acupuncture is great but I don’t think it addresses any causes – it is symptomatic treatment. Moxibustion you may do yourself.

In health,

Dr Ben
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The liquid is what I prefer as it is more cost effective and does taste good. It is more potent as well.

The fish oil you got is fine to use. The sterols help lower cholesterol if that is an issue for anyone.

Fish oil is definitely needed for healthy people as we are all exposed to environmental toxins on a daily basis. The fish oil helps repair our cell membranes and nourishes our brain.

For your two year old, consider using ½ teaspoon a day of Finest Pure Fish Oil or use the Frutol. You may find the little one really likes the tastes of Frutol more.

Give 1 teaspoon a day.

Any other questions, please do ask.

In health,

Dr Ben
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A: Your toddler can take the ProBiota 12. It is what I give my boys who are above 2 yrs old.

Give them less than your dose – give about 1/8th teaspoon for her to a 1/4 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder. You can give the ProBiota powders directly to the mouth. No need to mix in food or water. You may mix in food or drink but no need as the ProBiota tastes good.
 

In health,

Dr Ben
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A: The smoothie is what I recommend at first as it is a very effective lifestyle change for weight loss.

We have other products beyond the smoothie as well; however, I prefer people try the smoothie first.

The smoothie addresses:
-    Speed of making a healthy breakfast which leads to weight loss due to decreased binging and eating too much later
-    Ideal type of protein which increase sense of fullness for a long period of time
-    Balancing blood sugar through added protein, healthy omega three oils and fiber
-    Getting a couple cups of water in is important for those who do not drink sufficient water.

Here are other nutrients that are effective for weight loss:
UltraLean Body Composition is a meal replacement drink designed for those wanting weight loss:

Satiet-Ease helps improve mood which is directly correlated with less eating for many:

Products which I do not like for weight loss are ones that speed up the metabolism. Those are dangerous.

Others that are ineffective are those that act as laxatives. Those are dangerous and very short lasting results.

In health,

Dr Ben
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Hello -

I am assuming that your wound is only a flesh wound. If it is more than that, please do post a comment below and we can address bone healing as well.

I do hope that you visited a physician so they could evaluate the severity. Given that it has been 6 weeks already, I am not sure of the current situation.

More information would be useful.

I posted a video response about wound healing here: http://www.youtube.com/user/DoctorNaturopathic#p/a/u/1/m1S58awLcL4

Should you have more comments, please do post them and I'll provide additional information.

In health,

Dr Ben
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A: We do have some products that are designed to nutritionally support ADD.  BioFocus food powders from Biogenesis provide balanced nutrition for healthy meal replacement shakes and nutrients like ginkgo biloba, B vitamins, and magnesium that support adrenal and cognitive function.  Biogenesis also makes the BioFocus Bar, which is not as complete as the BioFocus shake, but it requires no preparation or refrigeration and can be tucked into a backpack for a healthy at-school snack.  BioFocus powder comes in two flavors, Rice Berry, which is dairy free if food sensitivities are an issue, and Whey Chocolate.

Another nutrient that is believed to be a factor in ADD/ADHD are omega-3 essential fatty acids.  You might find this study interesting; their results definitely suggest that ADD/ADHD persons may benefit greatly from omega-3 supplements. Consider adding a spoonful of Finest Pure Fish Oil with Essential Oil of Orange by Pharmax to the BioFocus shake.

You might consider reading Is This Your Child? by Doris Rapp MD for some insights into the connection between environmental toxins, diet, and behavorial/health issues.

Best of luck to you and your son!

Molly
Customer Support
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I am going to right now.

Making this smoothie in the morning will help you lose weight!

The key to losing weight is having the right ingredients, eating at the right time and combining these two together.

Making a smoothie with the following ingredients during the morning hours will definitely make an impact on what is around your waist.

You do not have to be a cook, chef or have a fancy kitchen. Just a blender, a desire to eat well and the following ingredients:

1. Get out your favorite blender. It really does not matter which brand you use. 
• I prefer a Glass unit for the top part of your blender as plastic leaches BPA which is shown to increase weight.
2. Add 2 cups of filtered water to the blender.
• Using unfiltered water adds chlorine, herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals and other unwanted compounds to your system.
• A comprehensive water filter removes these toxins.
• It is known that toxins increase weight gain.
3. Add 1 cup of wild blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
• Frozen berries are best as it gives the smoothie a nice cool feeling.
• I should also mention that frozen berries are usually better nutrition as they are frozen immediately after harvest. This locks in their vitamin content. The fresh berries get on trucks and sit around in the light which degrades their vitamin value.
• Do not use bananas as they spike your blood sugar too much which causes weight gain.
4. Add 1 Tablespoon of Finest Pure Fish Oil to the smoothie.
• Research shows lower amounts of EPA and DHA in obese patients. When supplementing with EPA and DHA, decreased weight around the abdomen and hips was noted.
• When supplementing with omega 3 fatty acids, and especially EPA and DHA, the unhealthy fatty acids become less dominant. As the unhealty fatty acids become less dominant, decreased inflammation and increased weight loss is seen.
• This research article on Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Weight Loss provides some insight. There is no need to read it all. Read the abstract, discussion and conclusion.
• This fish oil is like no other. It actually enhances the taste of the smoothie and gives it a creamier texture. If my kids complain of a smoothie, it usually means I did not add the fish oil - seriously.

With these ingredients added, close the blender! and blend for a few moments.

Once the ingredients are nicely blended, add the remaining two ingredients below:

1. Add 1 scoop of Whey Slim with L-Carnitine which provides 14 grams of pure balanced protein.
• Having a healthy dose of protein in the morning keeps you going for hours. You will likely not have to eat until lunch time.
• Side effects of having protein for breakfast include improved moods, decreased anxiety, more focus and reduced binging and snacking.
• Losing weight with Whey Slim is possible due to the high quality whey protein isolate, no fat and extremely low carbohydrate content. Add 400 mg of L-carnitine to the whey protein isolate and you have a potent formula for weight loss.
• If you cannot tolerate dairy products, then do not use Whey Slim. I have an alternative protein powder for you below.
2. Add 1 Tablespoon of Chia Seeds which provides calcium, fiber, minerals and an increased sense of fullness.
• Chia Seeds are shown to increase the sense of satiety for hours just as Whey Protein Isolate.
• The benefit of adding Chia Seeds goes beyond increased satiety. Chia Seeds also provide fiber which binds toxins. Research shows Chia Seeds to be effective at binding toxins and allowing the body to eliminate them via the stool.
• For best effect of the Chia Seeds, grind them in a coffee mill or grain mill just prior to adding them to the blender. It is not a good idea to buy Chia Seed Meal as it will be rancid by the time you use it. It is always best to grind your seeds and nuts just prior to use to prevent pro-oxidation in your body.

That is all the ingredients. Now close the top of the blender and blend again for a brief moment. I recommend pulsing the blender on/off/on/off for a few seconds.

Blending whey protein for too long will denature the protein. This means it will destroy the beneficial immune boosting nutrients of the protein. We do not want that and we prevent it by not blending it for long periods of time.

Do this a few days a week for breakfast and you'll have an energy packed, attention providing smoothie that will also result in weight loss.

Let me know how it goes!

Can't tolerate Whey Protein? Have or suspect a Dairy Allergy? Then switch out Whey Slim with L Carnitine for BioCleanse Functional Food Powder.

• If you suspect you have a dairy allergy, then do not use Whey Slim. BioCleanse Functional Food Powder is rice protein based so it will still help with weight loss.
• BioCleanse Functional Food Powder is designed to assist the body in removing toxins. As mentioned before, removing toxins also reduces weight gain.

I also am not a fan of eating the same food each day and every day especially if is protein based.

• If one eats the same source of protein each day, be it whey protein, beef, chicken, quinoa or others, the potential of developing food intolerances to it increase tremendously.
• Thus, I recommend people alternate between types of protein sources.
• Have a smoothie using Whey Slim one day, another day use BioCleanse Functional Food Powder and another day switch to simply grinding up almonds that were soaking overnight.
• This way, you have limited the potential for food intolerances (which are minor food allergies by the way but still have significant symptoms).

Please post what ingredients you enjoyed adding to the Weight Loss Smoothie below in the comment box.

Weigh yourself today. Then weigh yourself after each week of having my Weight Loss Smoothie. I look forward to hearing the results!

In health,

Dr Ben
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This is the follow up email written after the 

Listen to the Phone Consult Podcast:
"Thyroid Issues with Chemical Sensitivities"

My follow up email to Mary after the Phone Consult:

Mary -

Good speaking with you last week.

We covered a lot of ground and a summary is definitely needed.

The iodine that you are taking appears to help your energy but I am concerned that you are taking too much due to your comments of increased heart rate and anxiety.

If you are getting these symptoms, then you are getting too much iodine. Reduce the amount you are taking.

As discussed, I do not like treating the thyroid without addressing the adrenal glands first.

Thus, I recommend you address the underlying Adrenal Deficiency first.

• Adrenal insufficiency relates to your chemical sensitivity, hypothyroidism and overgrowth of yeast.
• If you crave salt, then have it. Those with adrenal insufficiency typically need it - especially more severe forms of adrenal insufficiency.
• Nutrients which help address adrenal insufficiency depend on the current situation.
• There is significant stress in your job causing nutrient depletion of magnesium and B vitamins.
• Reactions to stress can be reduced by specific nutrients as well. B vitamins and Magnesium help but I also recommend the use of tonifying adaptogenic herbs such as Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha not only supports a calmer mood, but it also supports the thyroid. So, one herb calms the mind, supports the adrenals and supports the thyroid. Ashwagandha is one of my favorite herbs. I use it often and my wife uses it nearly every day.
• Suggested dose for Ashwagandha is to start out taking 2 capsules at bedtime. This is a great time for many to take Ashwagandha as it helps promote a deeper sleep. How? I am not sure but it works well from what I have experienced personally and clinically. My guess of how Ashwagandha works is because it decreases cortisol. Cortisol is what keeps us up at night and what is supposed to wake us up in the morning. Thus, if you take Ashwagandha in the AM and you are not stressed out, fatigue may set in. So taking it at the right time is key.
• Also take Ashwagandha during times of immediate stress. It helps reduce the tension and stress you are experiencing. Example:
• If you are at work, and company meetings stress you out, take a capsule of Ashwagandha prior to the meeting.
• You may find Ashwagandha by Seeking Health here. Seeking Health is my own company and I started it to provide pure products. Most supplements have fillers, flow agents, are tablets instead of vegetarian capsule, do not meet the claim on the label nor are they tested for heavy metals, pesticides and herbicides. Mine are.
• A complex of B vitamins, hormone precursors and common minerals that are deficient in those with adrenal insufficiency is what may benefit you.
• I recommend you take 2 capsules of Adrenal Support Plus by Biogenesis Nutraceuticals at breakfast time and take another 1 at lunch time. Do not take any multivitamin or adrenal support product within 5 hours of going to sleep as they will keep you awake.
• Adrenal Support Plus is what I took while studying medicine for 5 years at Bastyr University. My classmates were sucking down caffeine and I didn't need it as I supported my adrenals. It works.

Hypothyroidism and addressing the proper conversion of T4 to T3

As discussed on the phone, I recommend magnesium, zinc and selenium which all support the conversion of T4 to T3.

A quality multivitamin has these ingredients in them. One I recommend for women over 40 years old is Women's Nutrients by Pure Encapsulations.

Consider taking 2 capsules in the AM and 2 capsules around lunch time. It is usually best to take multivitamins with food and again, do not take within 5 hours of going to bed.

If you prefer to take Liquid Selenium, Liquid Zinc and Liquid Magnesium alone, you may combine these in a glass of water or juice and do it that way. My wife prefers this method. Take the suggested doses on the bottle daily with food.

The adrenal support and Ashwagandha will also help convert T4 to T3.

If your thyroid levels do not return to normal using these methods, then you may need to address the thyroid directly as well. This may be the case and it may not be. I recommend testing your thyroid function now and then again in 3 months. If TSH is still elevated or T3 and T4 are abnormal, evaluate if you have been really taking the suggested products above. If you have, then you need Thyroid Support by Gaia Herbs

To give some idea of what my wife uses to keep her hypothyroidism in check:
- Thyroid Support by Gaia Herbs
- Liquid ZInc, Magnesium and Selenium
- Adrenal Support Plus
- Multivitamin
- D3
- Fish Oil
- Ashwagandha as needed
- Water, Bath and Shower filters which remove chlorine.

Let's address the Chemical Sensitivity now:

• As mentioned earlier, adrenal insufficiency plays a major role in chemical sensitivity. Thus, restoring the adrenals helps and we addressed that above.
• Given that you are taking Nystatin, it appears that you have difficulties with yeast overgrowth or candida
• When candida is excessive, it causes decreased immune function, brain fog (which you have) and sensitivity to chemicals.
• Candida may cause chemical sensitivity in some people as it releases acetylaldehyde.
• Acetylaldehyde is typically broken down by the liver to acetic acid which is harmless.
• However, those with chemical sensitivity do not have a fully functional liver which metabolizes toxins.
• What I recommend is molybdenum along with MSM. I discussed on the phone how molybdenum breaks down acetylaldehyde. I forgot to mention that MSM does as well.
• MSM also helps support liver detoxification pathways which will get the toxins secreted out of your system.
• Combined MSM and Molybdenum may be found in MSM Plus Molybdeum by Seeking Health
• Consider taking 2 capsules of MSM Plus Molybdenum at breakfast and two at lunch.
• You should notice decreased symptoms of fogginess and fatigue - especially combined with Adrenal Support Plus and Ashwagandha.

Removing the Candida

I would continue taking the Nystatin to kill the overgrowth of yeast. Be consistent with it. Don't take it sporadically. Take it daily for a month or two months. Yeast make hyphae which have life cycles. Nystatin kills the non-hyphae yeast from what I recall. So if you take Nystatin for a short time only, the hyphae grow into full blown yeast and start the overgrowth once again.

You may eradicate yeast naturally by eating lots of raw garlic, or taking a supplement called ParaBiotic Plus.

If you choose to take ParaBiotic Plus, start taking 1 capsule three times a day working up to 4 capsules 3 times a day. This is important to prevent a die-off reaction from the yeast.

To prevent the candida from taking root again, it is necessary to have enough stomach acid in your stomach and replenishing beneficial bacteria.

You are taking digestive enzymes which is great. Reducing stress while you eat will also increase stomach acid. Try to eat without working and be in a calm state.

In the mornings, try having a cup of filtered water mixed with the juice of 1/4 lemon. Sip slowly. This helps get the digestive juices flowing which helps digest your foods and obtain nutrients from them.

Restoring the beneficial bacteria using a broad-spectrum probiotic blend that is high potentcy is ProBiota 12 Powder. Consider taking 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder at dinner. Do this for one month. At the end of one month, switch to ProBiota 12 capsules and take 1 capsule at dinner for on going maintenance

Detoxification Support

I am a bit gunshy to push your detoxification pathways too much until we get your adrenal insufficiency taken care and your thyroid happy. The MSM Plus Molybdenum is a gentle detoxification supplement and let's keep it at that for now.

Reducing your stress levels will indirectly increase your detoxification pathways because your liver will function more effectively. This is because your liver does not have to process excessive cortisol secretions allowing it more time to process toxins from the dryer sheets for example.

A great mild way to detoxify is through exercise, breathing deeply for 15 minutes (pranayama), meditation, sauna and/or hot epsom salt bath mixed with moor mud.

Begin exercising slowly through walking with your husband. Do not force it. If you can break a sweat, that is ideal. Wear warm clothes and go exercise which will help you sweat.

The far infrared sauna I own is from High Tech Health and I find it to be useful, well-built, easy to set up and without harmful materials. If you contact them, tell them that Dr Ben Lynch of HealthEGoods.com referred you. This way you will save around $500 off the list price. I receive a small commission on that to let you know but that is not why I am referring it. I have researched numerous sauna companies and many are terrible. High Tech Health has met my standards. I put my own kids in it and myself.

You mentioned Kangen water and that it is MLM. I use an alkaline water ionizer by Akai which is sold by High Tech Health. Again, if you mention my name and website, HealthEGoods.com, they will discount about $300 off the price of the Akai Water Ionizer. (I receive a commission on it as well). I have owned my Akai Water Ionizer for about 12 years now and it is still going strong. I've replaced the filter in it only twice in that time.

An inexpensive way to mobilize toxins through sweat is by taking a moor mud bath mixed with epsom salts.

As discussed, do the moor mud bath during the day or not within 3 hours of bed due to the increased cortisol secreted during hyperthermic treatments.

Brief tips for the moor mud bath:

• Fill the bath with filtered hot water, as hot as you can tolerate
• Make sure you filter the chlorine out of your bath water as chlorine interferes with thyroid hormones and is a lung irritant. So bathing in chlorine does not detox you.
• Add 1 pound or so of magnesium sulfate to the bath - which is Epsom salt. As suggested on the phone, I recommend going to an equine supply store where you can obtain inexpensive epsom salt.
• We have a variety of moor mud to choose from and all are in their natural non-pasteurized state for maximum effect. Dried moor mud or pasteurized are not nearly as effective at relieving pain or inducing hyperthermia.
• Full instructions on how to do a moor mud bath are always sent with each shipment.

I talked about adding liver support nutrients, let's hold off and try what we have so far. It is not good to do too many things at once.

Once you get better energy, let's address additional liver support.

In summary, the main supplements you should consider to improve symptoms of hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, candida and chemical sensitivity are:

The supplements I am recommending below are highly recommended and should bring about improvement in your health within 3 weeks.

1. Ashwagandha to reduce stress at work, improve sleep and optimize thyroid function. Consider taking 2 capsules before sleep. Take as needed but do daily for first two months. After that, take only when you need to.
2. Adrenal Support Plus to improve adrenal health. Consider taking 2 capsules at breakfast and 1 capsule at lunch. Do this for 2 months and then reduce to 1 capsule in the AM and 1 at lunch.
3. ProBIota 12 Powder to crowd out candida and help prevent it from coming back. ProBiota 12 Powder also helps bind toxins in the digestive system thereby helping reduce symptoms of chemical sensitivity. Consider taking 1/2 teaspoon at dinner. Do this until the bottle runs out and you're done.
4. Switch to ProBiota 12 capsules after the ProBiota 12 Powder is finished. Continue ProBiota 12 capsules at 1 capsule at dinner as a long term program.
5. MSM Plus Molybdenum to process the yeast's acetylaldehyde toxins and reduce symptoms of fogginess. Consider taking 2 AM anytime and 2 at lunch anytime. Take for 2 to 4 months only. If symptoms of fogginess still occur, then eat protein every two hours. That may be the cause - low blood sugar. If symptoms still do not subside, increase the dose of Molybdenum by adding Liquid Molybdenum and taking an additional 3 drops. I don't think this will be needed but I am putting it out there just in case.
6. Women's Nutrients to support your thyroid and overall health. It supports your breast, additional adrenal support and mild detoxification support. Consider taking 2-3 capsules at breakfast and lunch. Take long term.
7. If you want to take ParaBiotic Plus to kill the yeast instead of Nystatin, take 1 capsule 3 times a day and work up to 4 capsules 3 times a day. Only 1 to 2 bottles are needed.
8. Thyroid Support by Gaia Herbs only if your labs in three months or two months from now do not show TSH stabilized along with healthy T4 and T3.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes to apply:

1. Eat smaller but more frequent meals to keep your blood sugar under control
2. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time. This balances your adrenals and allows them to function optimally.
3. Sweat how you wish but do it a few times a week ongoing. Switch it up from epsom salt bath, exercise, hot yoga, sauna, moor mud and so on.
4. Consider the Akai Ionizer Plus by High Tech Health if you feel it is useful for you. It may be. I would choose the sauna over the Ionizer if you have to pick one for overall benefit. That is personal opinion only. I believe sweating is very important - but so is clean water...

A: In short, I recommend you take ProBiota 12 Powder for 1 month and then you will no longer need it.

Consider taking 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder at dinner time every day for a month.

For your situation, I also recommend you consider Saccharomyces boulardii as well. Consider taking 2 capsules at dinner along with the ProBiota 12 Powder.

Do this for one month and then you will no longer need Saccharomyces boulardii.

Then switch to ProBiota 12 capsules and take 2 capsules at dinner for 2 weeks and then reduce to one capsule at dinner time as a maintenance dose.

For additional information about probiotics, I just wrote an article on them that you may find useful.

Should you have any comments or questions, please do post a comment on the article, and I will respond quickly.

Thank you for your question.

Have a great weekend!

In health,

Dr Ben
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• Clove essential oil
• Eucalyptus essential oil
• Tea Tree essential oil
• Oregano essential oil
• Rosemary essential oil

While you are taking antibiotics, you will need to take Saccharomyces boulardii in the AM and PM. Consider taking 1 capsule each AM and PM with food.

Once you are finished with the antibiotics, consider taking ProBiota 12 Powder. Take a half teaspoon at dinner time. This is the best time to take probiotics according to research.
ProBiota 12 Powder contains 12 strains of beneficial bacterial strains in very high doses, which is important to reestablish proper gut flora.

Call an EENT doctor to get a culture and sensitivity done on your sinus. It is not effective medicine to be guessing which substance will kill whatever bacteria or fungus you have in your sinus.

Once you find out what the culture and sensitivity is, get back to me and I will put a call into Key Pharmacy. This way you can call in a prescription for whatever mixture they recommend for a nasal spray. They can compound antibiotics, antifungals and nutrients into a nasal spray which directly targets the infection.

Should you have any questions, please do ask.

Do let me know how the inhalations go as well.

In health,

Dr Ben
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Disclaimer: All information relating to medical and health conditions, products and treatments, is for informational purposes only. The information provided is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her physician.

Click here for the recording which you listen to as you need – yours is the ‘Fatigue after Gall Bladder Removal.’

As promised, here is a brief follow up of what we discussed.

Dietary Information:
Dietary choices are key but it sounds like your husband is doing pretty well there; he is only eating at the wrong time of day and not enough protein.
Have him eat smaller but more frequent meals, each having a bit of protein. Hard-boiled eggs, beans, almond butter, quinoa grain, chicken, grass fed beef, wild salmon, hummus, tahini are all great forms of protein.

Make sure he has breakfast. Eggs are fast and very healthy. If he doesn’t eat breakfast, the craving for sugar spikes and he will binge on garbage foods. Bring snacks to work: celery and almond butter with raisins (can you tell I have kids?!), hummus with carrot sticks, celery and so on. Have his largest meal of the day at lunch time.

Dinner needs to be the lightest meal of the day; however, as we discussed, it is important that he have a small portion of protein before sleep. This is required for deep, full sleep. Half of an egg, a couple carrot sticks with tahini or hummus or some quinoa will be great.

Gall Bladder Help:
Since the gall bladder is constantly dripping bile, it is a good idea to have some form of fiber with each meal and between meals. Chia seeds are great for this. They are inexpensive, healthful, contain protein and minerals and also curb appetite.

Have him take a tablespoon of Chia Seeds between meals when he feels a bit of hunger or even when not hungry. This will curb the appetite and also help bind some of the dripping bile acids.

Another form of fiber that will be useful for your husband is Ultra Fiber Plus. It is good to mix between fibers for your husband’s sanity and also for his digestive system. I do recommend taking the Ultra Fiber Plus at night and the Chia Seeds during the day. This is easier and more effective. He may experiment though and find other ways which work better for him.

Consider taking 1 scoop of Ultra Fiber Plus before sleep to help bind the bile that drips during the evening. This should help bind the bile and at the same time help reduce some of the ‘water weight’ that is associated with diluting the bile concentration in the digestive system.

Reduce fat and spicy foods as he has found out.

If your husband has a meal that is high in fat, he should consider taking 1 capsule of Liver GI-Detox right at meal time or during. Do not take on an empty stomach or too much time before meals as Liver GI-Detox is designed to stimulate bile acids which are needed to digest fats.

If his meal is not high in fat, oils or heavy, then he should not take Liver GI-Detox.


Stress and Blood Pressure Support:
Given that his stress is likely related to his blood pressure, it is a good idea to maintain adequate nutrients and herbs designed to calm and provide alertness and energy at the same time. While this seems impossible, it is easily obtainable in a good formulation.

Daily Stress Formula contains herbs designed to calm, energize without stimulating and nutrients which drive cellular metabolism and help form neurotransmitters.
It is best to take 1 - 2 capsules of Daily Stress Formula daily immediately on waking and away from food. He may eat, and should eat, within 20 minutes of taking Daily Stress Formula.

I recommend always starting at a lower dose and working up. Taking 1 capsule of Daily Stress Formula in the AM and again 20 minutes before lunch or 30 minutes after lunch; but not within 6 hours of sleep.

While taking Daily Stress Formula, he will find improved energy, more alertness and less reaction to stressors.

Again, it is important to start low and work up. Many people think that taking more of a supplement means it will work better. Not the case. Also, emphasize the point that he should take this away from meals but within 20 minutes of eating for optimum effect. Also do not take within 6 hours of going to sleep.

Taking 1 in the AM and 1 at lunch is likely going to be the best.

These should help him significantly.

With these suggestions, he will likely experience weight loss, energy gain, improved attitude and well-being.

Do have him follow up with me in one month or earlier if he has any questions.

In health,

Dr Ben
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• Test:
• TSH, T4, T3, Anti-TPO, Anti-TG
• Without all these in the thyroid test, there is no way to know how your thyroid is working.
• Depending on the results, you may need to supplement with Thyroid Support by Gaia and Adrenal Support Plus. Do not take Thyroid Support until you know you need it.
• Need to rule this out or in.

2.    Hemochromatosis

• Test:     
• Serum Iron, Serum Ferritin, Percent of Transferrin Saturation
• Information about hemochromatosis.
  
• Need to rule this out or in.

3.    Adrenal Fatigue

• Directly linked to Fibromyalgia
• Additional information here.
  
• Consider supplementing with 1 capsule of Adrenal Support Plus in the AM and one in the afternoon. If, after one week, you are not noticing improvement, take 2 capsules of Adrenal Fatigue in the AM and 2 capsules at lunch. Do
• Do not take Adrenal Support Plus, B Vitamins or a multivitamin within 5 hours of going to bed as they will interfere with your sleep.
• You may find Adrenal Support Plus here.
  

4.    Dietary Changes

• Ideally, avoid all dairy products, including yogurt. Change to coconut based yogurt instead.
• Avoid wheat if possible or as much as you can. Use 100% rye bread, rice, gluten free, and quinoa. All these are great substitutes. My family and I have been wheat free for 5 years now and dairy free for 1 year. Don’t miss it at all.
• Keep avoiding tomatoes.
• Eat smaller but more frequent meals. Already seems like you are doing this.
• Make sure you eat a bit of protein before sleep to allow a deeper sleep

5.    Sleep Improvement

• Magnesium and Vitamin B6 are commonly deficient in those who do not sleep well.
• Consider taking 1 capsule of Magnesium Plus in the AM, one in the afternoon and 1 at night 30 minutes before sleep.
• Taking the Adrenal Support Plus in the AM and at lunch will also begin to improve your sleep.
• Exercise by walking during the day. Begin with 5 minutes for a week. Then do 10 minutes, then 15 and so on. Increase as you feel energy and do not over do it.
• Do not exercise at night as it is stimulating.
• Do not take hot baths or hot showers before bed as they are stimulating. Rather take neutral temperature baths or showers if needed.

6.    Pain Reduction

• Apply Castor Oil to all areas of pain.
• Do this daily
• Also apply castor oil over your entire abdominal region each evening. Wear an old T-shirt to prevent the castor oil from soiling the linens. You may also apply the Castor oil 30 minutes before sleep and by bedtime, it should be nearly all but absorbed.
• Obtain Magnesium sulfate or Epsom Salt (same thing) from a animal feed store.
• They usually have Magnesium sulfate in 25 pound bags.
• Add 1-2 pounds of Magnesium sulfate to the hot bath, stir well until it is all dissolved.
• Add 500 mL of Moor Mud to your bath. This helps relieve pain significantly.
• Have the temperature of your bath around 107 degrees F or as hot as you can stand.
• Stay in the bath for up to 15 minutes or until you have the feeling that you have had enough.
• Full instructions of how to do a Moor Mud bath are included in the package.
• Do this three times a week for 3 weeks. Research shows that when hot baths are taken with moor mud and done consistently, the pain relief stays for a longer duration compared to taking a moor mud bath once a week and spaced out too long. Yuko Agishi is the Japanese researcher who discussed this in detail.
• D-Ribose taken at 5 grams a day has shown to be effective at reducing pain in those suffering from fibromyalgia symptoms.
• You may find Ribose here.
  
• Consider taking 1 teaspoon three times a day mixed in a little bit of water. The taste is nice so that is not a concern.
• Research on D-ribose and Fibromyalgia can be found here.
  
• Ribose is the most common and typically the most effective single nutrient used to reduce pain in those suffering from fibromyalgia
• Given your history of Hepatitis A, your liver is not functioning optimally as it likely has not received nutrients to repair itself fully.
• Chronic pain is associated with liver congestion and the liver’s inability to process toxins.
• As toxins build up, they cause pain.
• Reducing the liver congestion improves the liver’s ability to process metabolites and toxins. This reduces pain.
• Consider taking 2 capsules of Liver GI-Detox at dinner. Do this for one week. If you find little relief, then take an additional capsule at lunch time.

7. Digestive Repair from Routine Antibiotic Use

• Overgrowth of non-beneficial bacteria that reside in your digestive tract cause inflammation which leads to pain.
• By taking a high potency probiotic that has multiple strains, the harmful digestive bacteria should become crowded out and become much less in numbers or become extinguished altogether.
• Consider taking 200 billion beneficial bacteria during dinner time. This amount is found in ½ teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder or 4 capsules of ProBiota 12 capsules.
• I recommend the ProBiota 12 powder as it is more cost effective at higher doses.
• Once the bottle of ProBiota 12 is finished, you may reduce down to 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 at dinner time. Higher doses are no longer needed after a month’s use.
• Research shows that there is an extremely strong link between fibromyalgia and imbalanced digestive bacteria. This is why I am suggesting you consider ProBiota 12. One month of ProBiota 12 taken at 200 billion organisms per serving each evening at dinner should have significant benefit.
• Click here to read the research which shows the connection between fibromyalgia and harmful digestive bacteria.
  
• Click here to read more about the Lactulose breath test.
  
• Eat fresh crushed garlic daily if you can
• Limit intake of sugar as sugar feeds many harmful yeasts and pathogenic bacteria.

8.    Chest Pain:

• The chest pain may be a deficiency of magnesium. The Epsom salt bath, adrenal support and Magnesium Plus may help with it.
• CoQ10 is another nutrient that may be beneficial here but let’s start with what has been recommended already and then move to that if needed.

In summary, the products I recommend are:
-    Adrenal Support Plus
-    Liver GI-Detox
-    D-Ribose
-    ProBiota 12 Powder (or capsules) – one month only and then maintenance dose of 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 a day
-    Moor Mud Bath
-    Magnesium Plus

Obtain from a drug store or animal feed store:
-    Castor Oil
-    Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt)

I believe you mentioned you were already taking fish oil. If so, great. If not, I’d like you to consider taking an equivalent of 5 grams of EPA/DHA a day. We have a few to choose from here.

I prefer the Liquid Finest Pure Fish oil. It is the most cost effective and tastes quite good as well.

The HealthE Membership will save you 10% off on all regularly priced items for an entire year. You may find it here.

Right now the membership is on special. If you buy any Seeking Health product, you get a free HealthE Membership. That helps a bit ;)

Again, do schedule a follow up consult in a couple weeks.

With the above suggestions, you will likely experience improvement within a couple weeks if not sooner.

In health,

Dr Ben
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This article is Dr Ben's follow-up notes from a Free 15 Minute Consult with Dr Ben. Helping direct you to which products, dietary changes & lifestyle products may help you. This phone consult was in regarding: "How can I treat chronic pain with cell salts?"

The Phone Consult Podcast: 
"Chronic Pain and Fibromyalgia"

My follow up email to Claudia after the Phone Consult:

Claudia - 

We had a very successful phone consult. You are extremely knowledgeable about your body and provided great information. The history you provided allows me to make some solid recommendations which should ease your chronic pain and Fibromyalgia.

As discussed, here are the things to consider to reduce symptoms of chronic pain in Fibromyalgia:

1. Restore the Health of Your Digestive Tract and Reduce Food Allergies
Given that you were on antibiotics for years as a youngster and got worse and worse from that point tells me your digestive system needs support. Combine this with the fact you are worse when eating sugar or refined carbohydrates tells me you have a candida overgrowth. We all have candida is our digestive system; however, when it grows out of control, symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue and numerous food intolerances occur.

• To control the candida, try to limit the intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars.
• Continue eating garlic as that is an excellent natural antifungal. 
• For optimum effect, crush a raw clove of garlic, smash it together and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then add it to your salad or whatever meal you are to enjoy.
• When garlic is crushed, mixed and allowed to sit, Allicin is made. Allicin is the key component to garlic that is strongly anti-fungal and anti-bacterial.
• Enhance the elimination of the chronic candida with a potent concentrated capsule of Garlic. Consider taking 1 capsule of garlic with meals three times a day.
• To restore the proper digestive bacteria in your digestive system, you need a potent probiotic mixed with a prebiotic that is not grown in a base of dairy.
• ProBiota 12 Powder contains 200 billion beneficial bacteria across 12 different researched strains. This is the most potent probiotic that I have seen.
• It is important to avoid the toxic feeling of killing the candida too quickly. Thus, I recommend starting with 1/4 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder taken at dinner time.
• Do this dose for 1 week. After the first week, up the dose to 1/2 teaspoon at dinner time. Take until the bottle is gone. 
• Once the bottle is gone, you should switch to ProBiota 12 capsules and take 1 capsule at dinner time. 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 contains 25 billion beneficial bacteria across 12 strains and is also grown in a non-dairy medium with a prebiotic.
• Many foods do not agree with you at the moment. If you ingest the Garlic and ProBiota 12, this will help; however, there is a lot of intestinal inflammation that needs to be addressed. If intestinal inflammation is not addressed, food allergies and intolerances will continue.
• Intestines use L-Glutamine as fuel
• Specific enzymes breakdown inflammatory cytokines which trigger food allergens
• Quercetin calms down mast cells which slows food reactions
• All these nutrients are found in BioInflammatory Plus capsules.
• Consider taking 4 capsules of BioInflammatory Plus two times a day away from meals. I would like to see you initially take BioInflammatory Plus capsules three times a day at four capsules each time. I realize this is a lot; however, you would need to do it only for 1 week, then you could reduce down to 2 capsules three times a day or 3 capsules twice a day.
• Within a few weeks, you should experience much reduced pain and more tolerance to foods.
• I do recommend maintaining a Rotation Diet while keeping the ingestion of wheat and dairy at a minimum - if at all.
• Take a quality concentrated form of EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are commonly low in those experiencing chronic pain.
• Consider taking 5 grams of combined EPA and DHA daily with meals.
• The most concentrated EPA and DHA is found in liquid fish oils. 
• Finest Fish Oil has a great taste and contains 5 grams of EPA / DHA in 2 teaspoons.
• If you prefer capsules, which I do not for fish oil purely because you have to take so many to get 5 grams, consider EPA DHA Essentials capsules.

1. 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder for one month and then move to 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 taken at dinner time as a long term maintenance dose.
2. Garlic capsules during meals. This is a short term recommendation - for 2 months or so.
3. BioInflammatory capsules: best to take 4 capsules 4 times a day initially and then down to 2 capsules 3 times a day or 3 capsules twice a day. You may find you are able to diminish all the way down to 1 capsule twice a day and then cease taking it altogether after a few months time.
4. EPA and DHA: Take a combined amount of 5 grams with meals. You may take it all at once or spread out twice a day. This is a long term required nutrient and at this amount as well.
5. Molybdenum: take 6 drops any time of day for one month and then down to 2 to 3 drops a day until symptoms of pain diminish. I foresee you taking this for a couple months and then stopping.
6. Adrenal Support Plus: take 2 capsules 15 minutes before breakfast and 2 15 minutes before lunch. I foresee you taking this supplement long term.
7. Women's Nutrients: as a general health supplement. Begin taking it in low amounts while on the other supplements. Once you stop or nearly stop BioInflammatory Plus, Molybdenum and Garlic, then you may consider taking 3 capsules of Women's Nutrients at breakfast and 3 at lunch.

This is the follow up email written after the Free 15 Minute Phone Consult regarding: 

Listen to the Phone Consult Podcast:
"Long Term Use of Prescription Medications for Acid Reflux"

My follow up email to Marie Louise after the Phone Consult:

Marie Louise - 

I understand you are looking for alternatives to taking over the counter acid reflux medications. There are plenty of options.

As discussed, I recommend healing your stomach first and then using Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with the juice of a lemon slice in a glass of water. Sip before meals.

Here are the suggested steps to take to heal acid reflux:

Step 1: Heal Your Stomach

My follow up email to Ronald following the consult:

Ronald - 

Good talking with you.

I understand that you are aware that men have decreasing amounts of testosterone as we age and you want to ensure your levels do not decrease.

If you took DHEA and your hair began to fall out, I believe your testosterone levels are fine. Taking DIM to counteract the hair falling out works because you are processing the DHT which comes from Testosterone.

As you can see from this diagram, DHEA goes to Testosterone which goes to DHT.

So if you take DHEA or Testosterone directly, you will create DHT.

The only way to reduce DHT is to block the reaction or reduce the reaction from Testosterone to DHT.

This is done using DIM, Indole-3-Carbinol or medication like Finasteride.

I would not supplement with Testosterone if you do not need it.

Measure your testosterone with a laboratory test. If low, then supplementing with small amounts of DHEA will help increase testosterone.

7-Keto DHEA: The Better form of DHEA

There is 7-Keto DHEA which does not convert to Testosterone or Estrogen so you will not experience hair loss or female characteristics from it.

What you'll experience from 7-Keto DHEA is lean body mass, increased immunity, and improved memory to name a few benefits that research has discovered.

Read what WebMD has to say about 7-Keto DHEA. You'll be pretty impressed and I think it is what you are looking for.

Bulking Up: Gaining More Muscle and Lean Weight using Whey Protein Isolate

Gaining muscle mass and lean weight is possible without resorting to taking testosterone.

I recommend a high quality whey protein that is free of unhealthy fats, cholesterol and lactose. 

Whey protein isolate is an effective protein at immediately adding weight and muscle mass. 

Add L-carnitine to it, and you effectively increase your lean weight gain as L-carnitine promotes lean body mass.

I formulated Whey Slim to enhance lean body mass. Whey Slim increases lean body mass while reducing fat; thus, it can either increase your weight or help you lose it depending upon your situation. In your case, Whey Slim will help you gain weight.

Should you have further questions, please do comment below.

Let me know how the 7-Keto DHEA and the Whey Slim work for you. Keep working out while taking these products and you should experience improved lean body mass and weight gain.

In health,

Dr Ben
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A:  I wish I knew some great online schools. I would try calling Bastyr University or the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and seeing if they recommend any.

Do let them know I referred you as it may help you get more credible information.

I am a member of the AANP and a graduate of Bastyr.

There are many online programs that are horrific and some are likely good - but as you say - which ones?

Do let me know if those two recommendations to find a good school help. I'd really like to know which online courses are credible. I only know that many are not.

Good on you that you are taking a proactive stance in your families health. It is needed these days as medicine is not effective at all.

If you don't find an online course, there are many great books out there:
- Is this Your Child by Doris Rapp
- Is this Your Child's World by Doris Rapp
- Alternative Approach to Allegies by Theron Randolph
- Digestive Wellness (forget the author)
- New Biology by Bruce Lipton, PhD
- Detoxification and Healing by Sidney Baker, MD
- Travels by Michael Crighton
- Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism by Groff and Gropper
- Nutrition Through the Life Cycle
- Feeding the Whole Family
- Nature Cure - Henry Lindlahr, MD
- Books by Michael Murray, ND
- Dangerous Grains
- The Fatal Harvest
- Environmental Medicine by Theron Randolph, MD
- Natural Healing with Cell Salts by Skye Weintraub, ND


That is a start for your own school ;)

In health,

Dr Ben
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This is the follow up email written after the Free 15 Minute Phone Consult regarding: What can I do naturally for Grave's Disease? I do not want to radiate my thyroid. I am currently managed with medication.

Listen to the Phone Consult Podcast:
"Alternatives to Radiation for Grave's Disease"

Olga mentioned this about the Phone Consult:
"You seem to be very well versed on the subject of my health concern (Graves Disease) and were able to immediately make recommendations."

My follow up email to Olga after the Phone Consult:

Olga - 

Grave's disease has numerous causes as we discussed. Determining the cause is a lengthy process and I don't feel we isolated it in your case. If we had more time to discover and go over your history, exposures and order various laboratory testing, I believe we could isolate the cause.

I am trying to determine if radiation therapy for your tumor may have caused the Grave's disease.

In the meantime, there are natural alternatives to help reduce the autoimmune response and destruction of your thyroid.

1. Eliminate additional halogens

2. Replenish common nutrient deficiencies

3. Balancing the sugar cravings

• Craving sugar and carbohydrates are the main desires for you as mentioned. We need to try and curb this desire.
• This is easily accomplished by eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
• Eat breakfast - eggs are great as they are complete protein.
• Ensure that each meal you have contains some protein in it. This way your blood sugar is balanced.
• Protein provides long term energy and provides satiety (feeling of fullness) superior to carbohydrates and sugars.
• If one eats carbs or sweets often, the appetite is not satisfied and they will find themselves eating and eating throughout the day.

• Plant Sterols are potent immune balancers known as immune modulators. My wife experienced Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and I was able to treat it successfully by having her take Sterol 117, a highly concentrated plant sterol formula with antioxidants, along with avoiding gluten containing foods. 
• Avoiding gluten containing foods is paramount in any autoimmune thyroiditis. This is because the amino acid sequence of gluten has some components which mimic the amino acid sequence of the thyroid gland. Thus, when one eats gluten, has intestinal permeability, (otherwise known as leaky gut), the gluten escapes the confines of the intestines and enters into the blood stream and lymph. The immune system recognizes the gluten as foreign, begins developing antibodies against it and attacks gluten. Over time, the antibodies continue to rise and the same antibodies that attack the gluten are now attacking the thyroid as the thyroid amino acid sequence looks the same. Only way to stop the attack is by eliminating gluten-containing foods.
• Decreasing inflammation, mortality rate and immune system reactivity may be improved by taking 5 grams of EPA/DHA daily.
• Consider taking 2 teaspoons of Finest Pure Fish Oil daily with dinner. 
• Research shows that harmful fats are released by hyperthyroidism. Taking a fish oil high in EPA/DHA can counteract the harmful inflammatory fats. (Please see attached complete study below)
• An excerpt from the research states:
• "The high mortality rate caused by a severe thyrotoxicosis in mice or rats is significantly reduced when either linoleate or a concentrate of 20:5 (EPA) and 22:6 (DHA) is included in the dietary fat." - Journal of Lipid Research, Volume 9, 1968
• Unhealthy digestive bacteria and yeasts are likely prevalant in your digestive system. This is due to the constant craving of sugar and carbohydrates. 
• In order to curb this, eating smaller meals with protein throughout the day will help significantly with the cravings.
• Eating raw garlic is quite beneficial. Crush the garlic and put on your salads, soups or add to your favorite wild salmon or shrimp dish.
• Taking a multivitamin, such as Woman's Nutrients,  with a potent B complex will also help curb the sugar cravings. Those who are vitamin B deficient and mineral deficient typically crave sugar.
• However, one must address the rebalancing of the bacteria immediately as the unhealthy digestive bacteria lead to inflammation and autoimmune conditions.
• Probiotics restore the proper balance in the digestive tract if they are in high numbers and across multiple strains. The probiotic must also be dairy free for those who are sensitive and contain a prebiotic as a nutritive base for the beneficial bacteria.
• ProBiota 12 Powder contains 200 billion bacteria per 1/2 teaspoon across 12 beneficial bacterial strains grown in a dairy-free environment and also contains chicory as a prebiotic.
• Take 1/2 teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder each evening with dinner time.
• Once the bottle of ProBiota 12 Powder is gone, your digestive system will be vastly improved with beneficial bacteria and the immune system should be less reactive.
• An excerpt from the research states:
• "Regulation of microflora composition (e.g. by probiotics and prebiotics) offers the possibility to influence the development of mucosal and systemic immunity but it can play a role also in prevention and treatment of some diseases." - Immunology Letters, May 2004
• There is a ton of research supporting the use of probiotics and prebiotics in those with autoimmune conditions.
• There is no need to take additional probiotics past one bottle of ProBiota 12 Powder unless you have to take antibiotics.

This is the follow up email written after the Free 15 Minute Phone Consult regarding: Supplements, etc., for chemotherapy (have 2 blood cancers, MPD and newly diagnosed MDS), and hemachromatosis

The Phone Consult Podcast Recording:
"Chemotherapy & Supplements to Reduce Toxicity"

My follow up email to Theresa following the consult:

Theresa - 

I entered your zipcode into Scorecard and found out that your area is very high in Dichloromethane. This chemical is a known carcinogen and blood toxicant, which, when combined, may lead to blood cancers. I find this connection quite related and a potential cause of your blood cancers. I recommend you talk with your Oncologist and an Environmental Medicine physician how to detox from dichloromethane.

Here is the summary of research that I discussed with you on the phone about Melatonin and cancer.

You may find a potent liquid form of melatonin here. Consider taking 15 to 30 drops of Melatonin (20 mg to 40 mg) at bedtime.

Glutamine:
Glutamine, as discussed, is required for your intestinal lining to get repaired from the damage of chemotherapy. The glutamine will help prevent mouth ulcers and restore your intestines ability to absorb nutrients.

Consider taking 10 grams three times a day. Mix in 8 to 10 oz of filtered water or mix in a smoothie with frozen blueberries and fish oil.

A great tasting fish oil that is tested for impurities and potent is Finest Pure Fish Oil.

Consider adding 1 teaspoon of Finest Fish Oil to your glutamine/frozen blueberry smoothie each day. Two to three teaspoons of Finest Fish Oil would be even better.

Fiber:
I forgot to mention that fiber is needed to help bind the excess chemotherapy and heal the digestive system from the harmful effects of chemotherapy. Combined with Glutamine, your digestive system will be significantly improved giving your more energy and less, or no more mouth blisters.

Consider adding a ½ scoop to 1 scoop of Ultra Fiber Plus to your Glutamine smoothie.

Take daily.

Folinic Acid
I am not sure if you can find a liquid folinic acid. I have never seen one. Have your doctor get you a Folinic Acid in the form of Calcium Folinate. The other form is 5-MTHF or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate.

Here is a monograph of 5-MTHF (see attached documents below) which you may read and share with your Oncologist.

I am not sure if you are able to use a sauna to detox the dichloromethane. Discuss with your Oncologist.

Sweating via Sauna
I would like to see you in a low temperature infrared sauna for a couple hours a day (spaced out over time). Temperature could be 105 degrees F and staying there long durations will encourage the solvents to be secreted through your breathing and skin via sweat.

Definitely discuss this with your Oncologist before you go do it.

Hemochromotosis
Your hemoglobin count is low due to the chemotherapy. We cannot raise it well because of chemotherapy and because hemoglobin requires increased iron levels.

We cannot raise your iron levels.

I am hoping that folinic acid will help raise your hemoglobin count. It is vastly superior to folic acid.

Again, to help bind excess iron, drink black tea during meals.

Do follow up with me in a month or less and let me know how you are doing – energy wise and what you have found out regarding dichloromethane.

In health,

Dr Ben
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This is the follow up email written to Leah after the Free 15 Minute Phone Consult regarding:  Dr Ben, I was on Lexapro for many years. I am going thru menopause, have hot flashes and trouble loosing weight. Since going off I feel manic, moody, irritable, trouble sleeping always. I have had acupuncture and take many supplements Still I am miserable. Please help. Thank you

The Phone Consult Podcast (opens in new tab so you can listen and read at the same time):
"Irritable, Moody, and Loss of Sleep After Ceasing Lexapro"

Leah mentioned this the following day after the consult:
"It was great speaking with Dr. Ben today. He has given me an insight which no one else has seen before. The other day we ate at the Chipolte Grill and after that meal I felt so good ( I didn't have the rice) I told my husband that I think I'm just hungry. So, it makes sense that my mood has to do with eating. Now, understanding what the under lying problem may be, made me feel so relieved."

My follow up email to Leah after the Phone Consult:

Leah - 

Good talking with you today.

I feel we made some significant progress.

As discussed, here are some suggestions for you to consider:

1.Smaller more frequent meals

b.Smaller more frequent meals also encourage weight loss.

c.Make sure to eat some protein before sleep

d.There is a direct connection between blood sugar imbalance and manic depression and all other mental conditions.

e.A diet of 40% carbohydrate (whole grains, salads, beans, nuts), 30% protein and 30% healthy fats (olive oil, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, avocados) is a great general guideline of a healthy balanced meal.

f.If you are in a hurry and do not have access to a healthy small meal, you will likely make improper food choices at the spur of the moment – we all do. Have a safety net on hand. Keep a bag of nuts and raisins handy or balanced meal replacement energy bars. 

2. Improving absorption of amino acids

a.Take 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with the juice from a squeezed lemon wedge and place into a ½ cup of water. Sip slowly. At the first sign of stomach warmth, stop and then eat your meal.

b.Do before each meal.

c.Pre-mix this and take with you in your purse in a small glass container. Do not use plastic as it secretes toxins like BPA.

d.If you don’t have time to take this, I recommend Panzyme. Take 1 capsule before each main meal. When eating small snacks, do not take Panzyme or the apple cider vinegar mix. 

3. Improving Mood and Sleep
a.Magnesium and B6 are necessary in the production of neurotransmitters.
b.You can eat all the healthy forms of protein you want, but if you are low in magnesium and vitamin b6, your neurotransmitters will not be built.
c.Consider taking 1 capsule of Magnesium Plus in the morning, 1 at lunch and 1 to 2 capsules 20 minutes before sleep.
          ii.If you experience loose stools, take less of Magnesium Plus. Try 1 capsule three times a day
d.The dietary changes will also help with this.
e.I forgot to mention Adrenal support. This is a must for anyone experiencing stress. The reason is the adrenal glands are responsible for secreting hormones relating to energy and respond to stressful events or stressful situations. If one’s adrenals become fatigued, hypothyroidism starts, weight gain comes into play, ineffective sleep occurs, fatigue settles in and food allergies begin.
         i.Consider taking 1 capsule of Adrenal Support Plus in the morning and 1 capsule at lunch.  Do this for a week. If you feel you need more energy and stress support, take 2 capsules in the morning and 2 at lunch. Do not exceed this dose.
        ii.Do not take Adrenal Support, B vitamins or a multivitamin within 5 hours of going to bed.

Laboratory Testing:

Testing amino acid levels and female hormones is a good idea to determine cause of mood imbalance and weight gain. Mood imbalance ties into weight gain for many individuals as well.

The test that is easy for you to do at home is the Amino Acid 20 Finger Stick Test.

This test includes a 30 minute follow up consult and a customized amino acid blend formula that is designed specifically for you. The specifically designed supplement is an additional cost which will be determined after the laboratory test. It is optional for you to purchase but is recommended as the supplement is designed to restore your amino acid imbalances.

You will receive a copy of the lab results and my interpretation along with suggestions.

I will send you a link to the female hormone panel. It is not activated yet on our website. Once it is, I will send it your way. It should be no later than tomorrow.

I recommend the HealthE Membership. The HealthE Membership entitles you to 10% savings on all regularly priced items – including lab testing. It is valid for one year from the date of purchase. 

Should you have further questions, please do ask.

In health,

Dr Ben
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Disclaimer: All information relating to medical and health conditions, products and treatments, is for informational purposes only. The information provided is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her physician.

Good talking with you today!  To find a naturopathic doctor near you, enter your zip code on the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians' website.

Aaron Henkel, ND graduated a year or two ahead of me. I am not sure how good he is as I have not worked with him. You may learn more about him here.

As discussed, here is the follow up to the phone consult we had earlier.

There is a lot of information here. Digest it over a few days. If followed, you will feel better in as soon as one to two weeks.

The vitiligo, celiac disease and hypothyroidism are all linked. It all starts with the digestive system.

1.  Controlling the autoimmune reactions

• Celiac, and likely an autoimmune thyroiditis, combined with vitiligo and numerous food reactions tells me that your immune system is hyperactive.

• In order to control it, your digestive system needs to be healed with nutrients. This takes time.

• In the meantime, you can control the immune response immediately with Sterol 117. This is needed to protect your thyroid from being continually attacked by your immune system.
• For 2 weeks, consider taking 2 capsules of Sterol 117 in the AM and 2 capsules right before sleep. Make sure you do not eat any food for 20 minutes prior to or after taking Sterol 117. 
• After the 2nd week, reduce to 1 capsule of Sterol 117 taken at night before bed.
• After one month of healing your digestive system which will stabilize your immune system, you can discontinue Sterol 117.
• Sterol 117 is needed only temporarily while you are healing your digestive system and learning to avoid all gluten.
• The smallest amount of gluten ingested will continue to trigger the autoimmune response and disrupt the health of the digestive system.
  

• Avoid gluten completely and dairy products. As discussed, the immune system sees gluten the same as it does thyroid. This is due to the amino acid sequence being similar in both. This is why autoimmune thyroiditis is found in those with celiac disease.
• Read more about it here.
  

• Repairing your intestines directly with the nutrients they need is essential to being able to reduce autoimmune responses and absorb your nutrients.
• The number one nutrient needed by your intestines is glutamine. This is their preferred fuel. 
• Anytime the intestines are harmed, the demand for glutamine rises. Without glutamine, the intestinal cells die and further damage and escalation of autoimmunity occurs.
• Soothing the intestinal tract with specific herbs such as althea, chamomile, aloe and licorice is recommended as well. These herbs reduce inflammation which allows the intestines to heal.
• Adding enzymes to the mix further supports healing of the intestines.
• All these can be found in Intestinal Repair Complex. 
• Consider taking 2 scoops of Intestinal Repair Complex in a glass of water. Stir well and then drink.
• The taste is quite decent and the results you should see quite quickly.
• Consider taking the 2 scoops of Intestinal Repair Complex in the AM before breakfast and again sometime later in the day between meals – either before lunch, an hour after lunch or after dinner before sleep.

• Highly potent probiotics balance the local gut immune system.
• The immune system is predominately located in the digestive system – over 70% of it.
• If the bacteria in the digestive tract are imbalanced, so is your immune system.
• As this article states in the concluding paragraphs, probiotics may be the missing link between treating and preventing celiac disease.
• Consider taking ½ teaspoon of ProBiota 12 Powder. This amount provides 200 billion beneficial bacteria across 12 strains in a prebiotic base of chicory. ProBiota 12 powder is dairy free. 
  
• It is best to take ½ teaspoon after dinner each evening.  Take this amount for 1 month.
  
• Once the bottle of ProBiota 12 Powder is finished, switch to ProBiota 12 capsules and take 1 capsule at dinner. This is a good maintenance dose at 25 billion beneficial bacteria.

• Consider taking selenium at 200 mcg a day which equals 3 drops a day.
• Selenium is needed in order to help reduce the autoimmune attack on the thyroid.
• Click here to read an article discussing the researched findings of selenium and thyroiditis.
  
• When selenium is combined with Vitamin D3, the protective effect is even greater and attack on the thyroid gland is diminished.
  

• Support the adrenal glands as they release cortisol which naturally maintains the immune system from getting out of control.
• Consider taking 2 capsules of Adrenal Support Plus in the AM and 1 capsule at lunch. Do not take within 5 hours of going to bed as it will keep you awake.
• This will increase your energy, reduce stress, improve sleep and likely improve your thyroid.
• I know I recommended Adrenal Support by Gaia but I believe the Adrenal Support Plus will be better for you as it contains B vitamins which is needed for your Vitiligo.
  

• I am not sure if you are getting flare ups from Celiac as I did not ask. If you are, then there are hidden sources of wheat in your diet which need to be removed.
• Please read this page and/or this page to make sure that there isn't hidden gluten sneaking in to your diet.

• Vitamin D3 at 5,000 IU per day helps stabilize the immune system. This works as vitamin D3 is directly linked to stabilizing the zonulins in your digestive system. Zonulins are highly elevated in those with celiac disease. Please read this article. It goes into detail about celiac disease and zonulins.
• Vitamin D360 by Seeking Health contains 900 servings of 2,000 IU per drop of Vitamin D3. This equates to about 2 cents per 2,000 IU of vitamin D3.
  
• Reducing zonulins is extremely important as it reduces the immune reactivity and restores health to your digestive tract.
• Have your doctor order a vitamin D3 blood test. You should measure around 80. If any less than that, consider taking at least 2,000 IU per day and up to 10,000 IU per day depending upon your current blood levels of vitamin D3.
  

• Applying castor oil to your abdomen each evening may reduce intestinal inflammation.
• Simply apply castor oil evenly all around your abdomen.
• Wear an old t-shirt to prevent ruining your good clothes and linens.
• Within 30 minutes, the castor oil will be absorbed.
• This simple trick has improved a number of my patients' pain, swelling and over all sense of well-being.
• Do this nightly for a couple weeks. Then stop and see if you need to continue. You likely will do it for a week, then stop for a week and keep going on that cycle.
  

2.  Vitiligo

• Vitiligo will improve as you improve your absorption of nutrients.

• Celiac disease disrupts your absorption of nutrients due to chronic inflammation. If you can reduce inflammation in your digestive tract, that will allow it to heal. Once healed, absorption of nutrients will occur and vitiligo will disappear.

• Common nutrients needed to reduce symptoms of vitiligo are:
• B vitamins
• Those suffering from celiac disease are most commonly deficient in Vitamin B12. This is due to the complexity of how vitamin B12 is absorbed. 
• I recommend you consider a liquid vitamin B12 that can be absorbed under your tongue.
• Suggested dose is one dropperful three times a day.
  
• Place under your tongue for 20 seconds or so and then swallow.A full range of B vitamins can be found in Women’s Nutrients. We have it on sale currently.
• I would wait to start this multivitamin until your digestive system gets repaired by the vitamin D3, probiotics and intestinal repair powder, you can additional nutrients.
• After a month of healing your digestive system, start with 1 capsule in the AM and 1 capsule at lunch initially to see how you respond. Then increase to 2 capsules AM and at lunch.
  

3.    Hypothyroidism

• You need to determine which type of hypothyroidism you have. It sounds like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis as your TSH is quite elevated and you have celiac disease which predisposes you to Hashimoto’s.
• When you get your thyroid tested, make sure these are ordered:
• TSH, T4, T3, anti-TPO, anti-TG
  

• The Adrenal Support Plus discussed above should help your thyroid; however, it will not be enough as your TSH is too elevated. Thus, you will need to take Thyroid Support as well. Kelp is good but it is not enough as there are other factors at play in thyroid metabolism.
• Consider taking 2 capsules of Thyroid Support first thing in the morning 20 minutes away from eating.
  
• If you feel still fatigued after 1 week, increase to 3 capsules.
• If still fatigued at 3 capsules after 1 week, increase to 4 capsules. Do not exceed 4 capsules taken at once.
• If you feel anxiety, fast heart rate, sweating or irritability, you are taking too much Thyroid Support. Lower the amount you are taking if this occurs.
• After 1 to 2 months, measure your thyroid. I recall you stating you would measure your thyroid again in 3 months. I think that is too long because your TSH is too far off. It needs to be corrected.
• The Adrenal Support, Sterol 117, Selenium and Thyroid Support will benefit your thyroid immensely.
• Taking Magnesium is also quite important as it drives the inactive thyroid hormone of T4 to become T3.
• Consider taking 1 capsule of Magnesium Glycinate at lunch and 1 in the evening at dinner.
  
• Zinc is also important as a cofactor in the reaction between T4 to T3. 
• Consider taking 7 drops of liquid Zinc with food anytime of the day that you feel is right for you.
• Typically after dinner is a good time to take zinc.
• Always take zinc with food to prevent stomach upset.
• Zinc is typically found to be low in those with hypothyroidism
  

A lot of information here.

To summarize, the main supplements you should seriously consider are:

• Vitamin D3
• Selenium
• Zinc
• Magnesium
• ProBiota 12 Powder
• Intestinal Repair Powder
• Thyroid Support
• Adrenal Support Plus
• Sterol 117
• Vitamin B12

After a month on those, then you can add in:

• Women’s Nutrients

Lifestyle changes:

• Ensure you are avoiding all gluten. This is a must.
• Apply castor oil to your abdomen nightly
• Chew your food very well and then swallow to enhance absorption of nutrients

With the above changes in supplementation and lifestyle/dietary changes, you will notice significant improvement likely in one to two weeks.

Do follow up with me in 2 weeks to one month. Given the complexity, two weeks may be a better idea.

The HealthE Membership is free with the purchase of any Seeking Health supplement. Vitamin D360 by Seeking Health will qualify you for a free HealthE Membership. The HealthE Membership provides you 10% off regularly marked items for one year. The discount is applied immediately during checkout.

A recording of the entire phone consult may be found here.

In health,
Dr Ben

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Hi Kara - 

As a physician, I sincerely appreciate all that nurses go through. You put up with cranky patients and arrogant doctors day in and day out. You are on your feet running the halls all day which turns into foot problems years later. Hours are long yet hardly boring. Then you go home and likely prepare meals, prepare your kids for school and, if you're lucky, you can go for a walk with your partner or get some exercise in.

That isn't even the half of it.

Nurses are exposed to radiation, cleaning chemicals, sterilizing chemicals, infectious agents, insane patients (and doctors), sharp needles, noxious gases, latex, formaldehyde, heavy metals, dangerous medications and emotional roller coasters - the highest of highs to the lowest of lows.

You love your job. You're passionate about what you do and wouldn't trade it for the world. There are few jobs like it and you kick ass at it.

Let's keep you healthy.

Your question asks 'tips for us nurses to stay healthy' because you're 'exposed to so many illnesses.' You forgot to mention that are exposed to so many chemicals.

As a naturopathic physician, I always aim for prevention and education . That said, there are the core nutrients which are needed by all, especially those exposed to such hazards as nurses are.

Beneficial supplement choices for nurses to prevent getting sick:

• Vitamin D3: If I had to pick one nutrient for a nurse, it would be vitamin D3. Why? Because it supports mood, bone health, immunity, cardiovascular to name a few.
• Get your blood levels of vitamin D3 tested. 
• If they are below 60, you need to load up on vitamin D3. Consider taking 10,000 IU of Vitamin D3 per day and then measuring again at 3 months time.
• If your levels are near 80, then you need to supplement with 5,000 IU per day and measure your vitamin D3 blood levels every 3 months. 
• According to John Cannell of Vitamin D3 Council, 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 is the suggested daily maintenance dose during the low sun exposure months.
• For daily maintenance during summer months or if you do not feel comfortable taking 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily, then take 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3 daily.
• Adrenal Support: Given the amount of stress nurses are in, nurses should support their adrenals. Nurses can feel calm in the most intense moments if their adrenals are balanced. Nurses can feel consistently energized without having to resort to 10 cups of coffee a shift or drinking corn syrup laden energy drinks. Sleep is also deeper and waking refreshed is possible.
• I recommend nurses take 2 capsules of Adrenal Support Plus in the morning on waking and 2 more in the afternoon.
• Do not take Adrenal Support of any type within 5 hours of going to sleep as it will keep you awake.
• Potent Multivitamin/Mineral: Obtaining nutrients from food is next to impossible due to corporate farming methods, pesticides, herbicides, lengthy improper handling and transportation and depleted soils. Then one adds the fact that grocery stores and restaurants no longer serve 'food'. Food is now all conveniently stored on shelves for long duration and not requiring refrigeration. The amount of processing has destroyed our foods. Monsanto needs to simply vanish from our planet. I wish they would genetically alter themselves and screw up. I digress...
•  Nutrient 950 with NAC is a complete multivitamin with extra antioxidant support. NAC is essential for lung health and detoxification.
• For optimum effect, take 3 capsules of Nutrient 950 in the AM with breakfast and 3 more capsules at lunch time. There is no reason to take all 8 capsules.
• Probiotic: Given that nurses are exposed to so many chemicals and infectious agents, it is essential that nurses have protection on board. Probiotics assist and act as key players in the enteric immune system. Did you know that most of our immune function stems from our innate immunity which is located in our digestive system. When I say most, I mean 70%. If your gut associated lymphatic tissue is not functioning properly due to pathogenic bacteria, chemical exposure or radiation, nurses become ill.
• Help protect 70% of your immune system by taking 1 capsule of ProBiota 12 Maximum Strength every night at dinner.
• Detox Support: To help bind all the toxins that you are exposed to from the cleaners and sanitizers, I highly recommend you supplement with nutrients.
• BioCleanse capsules is a phase 2 liver support product which helps mobilize toxins that are already circulating in your blood and helps gets them out via the urine and stool.
• Consider taking 2 capsules anytime and then 2 capsules again about 5 hours later. Anytime is fine.
• Calming Support: Take the edge off at work, improve sleep, maintain energy in a calm and collected fashion with Ashwagandha. 
• Stress stops detoxification and actually creates more load on your liver. By remaining more stable and calm, you are able to detox more effectively.
• Improved sleep allows for decreased stress and anxiety thereby improving immunity and effective detoxification.
• Consider taking 2 capsules of Ashwagandha each evening before sleep and 2 capsules before going to work. You won't notice any difference but your co-workers will. They will ask, "You are so much calmer. What's up?" The power of subtle changes in mood with Ashwagandha is incredible. I would not have survived medical school without it - nor my extremely fast growing company. Ashwagandha is my favorite herb by far.