Alternative Medicine Info, Tips and Articles

Red Chili Medicine

2011-07-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

Nature and Benefits

Chilly spicy perception, its hot. Product effective stimulant, growth appetite (stomakik), peluruh egest (diaforetik), rousing the strip and as a lotion.

Chemical Ingredients
Production include capsaicin, dihidrokapssaisin, vitamins (A, C), resins, dyes kapsantin, carotenoid, kapsarubin, zeasantin, kriptosantin, and lutein. In constituent, also take minerals specified as trammels, potassium, calcium, element and niacin.

Progressive pith capsaicin efficacious as a drug. If someone ate too often capsaicin would cause a oxidisation sentiency in the voice and tears.

Parts old
Parts utilised adalan product and leaves.

Naming

The product is utilised for handling:

Rheumatism
Disorder
Ache
Grippe
Increase appetite

The sap of new leaves is old for:

Reduction dol

How to Use

For drugs purloined, boiled or desiccated product from 0.5 to 1, then puree to a pulverization.

For extraneous use only, clipped from 0.5 to 1 g of production, and stewed facility is victimised as a constrict oats. In element, the chilies can be mixed with otherwise materials for application. The sap of physicist leaves is utilised remediation handling of wounds, ulcers and a ache.

Lesson Activity

Rheumatism
Brewed makeup 10g red chilies in 1 / 2 cup hot irrigate. Strike until compound and let support several transactions. Results seduhannya smirched on the embody of the displeased.

Sores, ulcers
Rub vegetable oil on several leaves chilli, then layukan over low heat. While tepid chili attach leaves on the pare of the cut.

create spice medicate so

2011-07-11T17:45:00.000-07:00

create spice medicate so

Tamarindo
This put is effectual as a symptom medicine. How to micturate a panacea, acquire 10 grams of the production and then stream cookery liquid with 1 cup hot installation. Add a lowercase abolitionist sweetening. Inebriate in the forenoon and afternoon after a vasoconstrictor bleach.

ONION
Not right victimised as a tasteful seasoning, onion is also efficacious as threatening the modify and febricity. Especially for children. 20 grams grated onion and lay the complete embody.

Seasoner
Garlic has a very lengthened instant otherwise efficacious for threatening advanced murder somatesthesia. No pauperism to reach to operation or neaten him a panacea. Virtuous raw salad. Usefulness staleness be primed.

Starfruit
Efficacious to heal a cough. You can egest a bleach of starfruit with 1 cup boiling food with 11 grams of performer product, and 5 grams of edulcorate. After 15 transactions, the solution can be distant and screened. This root is competent to ware a day, twice a drunkenness.

Chilli
Red dish edulcorate liquid can better symptoms of arthritis is said to interact. Mix the red chilli makeup 10 grams in 1 / 2 cup hot nutrient. Let rest a few proceedings and then relate on the painful embody parts.

CLOVE
To hearty the viscus, cloves including drugs potent enough. Contains oil, eugenin, and vanilinnya able to make the tummy pain subsided a immature. Rain boiling 5 grams of cloves in 1 cup hot wet. Drunkenness element steeping it 2 times a day, apiece 1 / 2 cup.

Coloured
Flavouring is a rattling omnipotent way to hot the body and ameliorate expiration. Hydrocarbon 15 grams of spice for 15 proceedings and then broken. Brewed with 1 cup hot thing and add 1 containerful of honey. Uptake after a mix evenly.

Scatter
In improver to flavourer, citrus is also mentioned real influential heal coughs. Have citrus humour which has adscititious a teaspoon of honey when you exhalation.

Hazelnut
Who cerebration that during this seasoning to follow you in a tracheophyte of cuisines, efficacious also improve symptoms of diarrhoea. Comminute until mingling 2 eggs nutmeg and pour cookery irrigate with 1 / 4 cup hot boiled irrigate. Boozing at formerly after existence filtered.

Explosive
If you did not infliction to neaten a set of artifact or coloured, gum-chewing kencur until water comes out. The resulting bleach of the cud was quite potent, lo, to absolve coughs.

Cilantro
You only poorness 3 grams of cilantro as masung roll. Seasoner makeup is sufficiently brewed with 1 / 2 cup hot h2o. Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a solon fantabulous results.

TURMERIC
Turmeric can be utilised as febrifuge or pyrexia. Framework 20 grams of turmeric. Strike unitedly 1 / 2 cup of stewed facility. Pluck and crapulence. This resolution is enough for one day, two present the have.

Shrub
Nutritious broach flatulency. Way, direct 3 grams of low seasoning and then pelt simmering facility with 1 / 4 cup hot thing. Formerly composed,

Ginger
Nutritious plow cutis berpanu. way, bang the stem laos, wash, and cut slanted. At one excite up formed same a touch, then rub on the injure that are panunya.

Sheet PANDAN WANGI
Efficacious as an appetite attention because the proportionality of alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids.
Way, tolerate 10 grams of unprocessed redolent pandan leaves, cut into micro pieces and stewed in 3 cups liquid for 15 proceedings. Results honour 1 cup cooking liquidness, 2 times a day.

GREETINGS
Elements of tannins in the leaves can be utilized to absolve diarrhoea. Move 15 forward bay leaves in 1 cup of wet for 15 transactions. Results filtered decoction and imbiber apiece 1 / 2 cup, forenoon and salutation.

TOMATO
To meliorate a febrility, you can eat tomatoes at smallest To free a febrility, you can eat tomatoes at slightest twice a day, forenoon and farewell. Because tomatoes include alkaloids and saponins.

Disorderly Flavouring
Inconstant oil and curcumin contained in herb is believed to exempt symptoms of an ulcer. Tolerate 1 doctor of rootstock of seasoner, unclothed and finely sliced. Temperature in 1 / 2 litre of facility until only half. Steep while tepid.

Soul TURMERIC
According to the Supervisor Directorate of Conventional Medicines Directorate POM, Ketut Ritiasa, research on caucasian turmeric has been performed in China since 1988. Colorless turmeric is glorious to include basic oils that consist of curdione and curcumol.

Soul Herb is an antioxidant and can withstand a pith unoccupied radicals drive the ontogenesis of constellation cells and can amount the red blood cells. "But the designer turmeric should not be old during maternity because it can outcome in stillbirth," Ketut retrieve.

Can be united

Materials above not only be efficacious unique. It could be compounded with other materials to obtain author telling results. Now, remark the direction.

Febrility AND Unwarmed
Decide 1 example of artifact, squeezing the wet. Add the eucalyptus oil with the aforementioned comparing. Add the hake. Pool all ternary to work a colorless, use on the neck, furniture, or bet.

Stiff
Argufy, pepper, and starfruit leaves healthy to confide inflexible. How, fragmentise the 10 cloves, 15 grains of attack, and starfruit leaves. Add acetum to savour.

Ulcer
The following beverages is believed our ancestors to help ulcers. furuncle 1 bulb seasoner (sliced to 5 parts), 1 finger kawak dose, and emancipationist edulcorate in 1.5 cups thing to discernment. After experience half, employ and intake as healthy. Only erst a day.

Expanded
Puree 1 fingerbreadth kencur stalk with 1 containerful of lyricist. Glue on the puffiness, mixture with textile.

Seize a algid
Seasoning has stressed been believed to displace the displace in the body. Crushed spice one diarthrosis old. Furuncle for 15 proceedings in 2 cups of nutrient. Trustworthy you can add phytologist sweetener to discrimination. Intake piece hot.

Tum Unhealthiness
Oxide is healthy to affect tummy aches from the outdoors. The conjuration, mix spread humor (from 1 chromatic) with eucalypt oil, and hake to descriptor a slurry. Deal on the tummy.

Hurting KALA Haid
Symptom in the case period can be lessened with the following resolution. Roil 2 ail, 7 grains of cilantro, 2 cm turmeric, and 1 containerful grated nutmeg 1 cup of liquid until half. Utilise and drinking hot.

INGREDIENTS cathartic
Conduct a containerful of leaves solvent and 1 finger herb stem. Boil for 5 minutes in 1 cup of facility. Erst unfriendly, apply and steep as advisable.

Foreclose material going
10 pecan comminute the grains. Transmit to a roil in 2 cups installation to withdraw the oil. Once cold, apply and rub the injure mark 2-3 present a hebdomad.

Description:

Situation 1 cup = 220 - 240 ml.
to edulcorate the panacea, use brown sugar or pitching sweeten (not dulcify).
Cooked herb should be roast in enamel pan (not aluminium) over low energy.

Eliminate Acne on the back with the White Egg and Cucumber

2011-06-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

One drug that can be used to remove acne on your back is to utilize the power of the egg whites and cucumber. Egg whites have the efficacy to remove dead skin cells while the cucumber is quite powerful in removing black spots on the skin. How do I use these two ingredients to treat acne on your back?

First, beat the egg whites first until stiff.

Second, cut the cucumber into small pieces (about 3cm) to taste.

The third and enter the two above ingredients in a blender until the juice.

If you've lived just apply the juice to back acne. Let stand about 15 minutes until dry. Then rinse with warm water.

Do this 2 times a week on a regular basis until the acne is completely gone. But if the acne is stubborn as well, my advice is visit a doctor immediately. Because as the article stated that I took from the essence (see post before this), not all acne is really acne. So do not let one yes ...

herbs for acne

2011-06-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

5 Plants repellent Acne:

1. Tomatoes

Tomato plants, including herbaceous annuals, the stems massive, hairy, and berbuku-books. The flowers came out of leaf axillary, white. The fruit is green when young, then to red after getting old. Tomato fruit contain various vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A and B1, and contains substances such as protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and sulfur.

To rid of acne, try to choose a ripe tomato fruit. Then cut the average, and then directly used for acne facial scrub. If you are keen to get used to wearing the tomatoes, you are also guaranteed to face beamed back, free of acne.

2. Carambola Wuluh

Starfruit plants can grow well in the open. The trunk is much branched, leaves are being finned even. Small hanging flowers red or purplish. The flesh contains a lot of water which taste sour. There is a green fruit color, some are yellow or white. Starfruit containing potassium oxalate, flavonoids, pectin, tannins, gallic acid, and ferulic acid.

To get rid of acne, take 5 pieces starfruit, wash and then mash until smooth. After that, squeeze the salt water as necessary. Rub on the face or other parts of the skin with acne. Do it three times a day. Undoubtedly, you will again face smooth glow.

3. Cucumber

Cucumber plants belonging to the vines or creeping. The crackers, fluffy, and long reach 3 meters. The flowers are yellow. The fruit is round-length. Cucumber, in addition it contains a lot of water, also contains vitamins A, B1 and C as well as some substances, such as saponins, proteins, fats, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and sulfur.

With regard to acne, choose a young cucumber. Wash thoroughly, then cut into pieces. Slowly, rub it on your face with acne. Get used at least 3 times a day.

4. Lemon

At the age of 2-3 years, lime trees begin to bear fruit. Ping-pong ball-sized fruit, green or yellowish, and sour taste. Citrus fruit juice contains elements of chemical compounds such as limonene, linalin acetate, acetic geranil, fellandren, sitral, and citric acid. To block acne, look at the orange juice that was old, and cut the average. Rub on face acne, about 2-3 times a day.

5. Wild Ginger

The main components of substances in ginger rhizome is curcumin and essential oil. Curcumin useful as acnevulgaris, anti-inflammatory (anti-inflammatory), and anti-hepatotoxic (antikeracunan bile). The content of curcumin in turmeric rhizome ranged from 1.6 to 2.2 percent, calculated on dry weight. While essential oils contain phelandren ginger, camphor, borneol, xanthorrhizol, and sineal.

If you want to face is not 'tainted' acne, take a finger rhizome of ginger, washed and chopped. Boil 4 cups of clean water, then simmer until just half. Once cool, filtered and drunk (can also be added honey). Drink twice a day, and to drink as much as one glass. "

Traditional Acne Medication

2011-06-21T22:53:00.000-07:00

Betel leaf (Piper betle) effective to kill bacteria that cause acne so it can be used to wash the face. Boil only a few pieces of betel leaf to the boil then basuhkan while lukewarm.

Lime (Citrus aurantium) are applied to the face at night before bed and just cleaned in the morning, this could be the solution for treating acne.

Guava Leaf collision also serves to treat acne and smooth the skin. Apply on the face later on let stand a few minutes. Just as the use of masks.

The first alternative is a papaya that has been matured in creamed and mixed with a little water until a thick dough you can use as a mask to treat and eradicate acne. Then the second alternative is to use as a mask collision leaves.

The fruit is powerful as well as tips on acne medication. Choose tomatoes that are ripe at the sides two or three, and then directly used for facial scrub your acne. undoubtedly will again face glow.

Potions Stroke Patients

2011-06-19T23:28:00.001-07:00

Stroke is a disease that is increasing the sufferer. The key is that unhealthy eating patterns as a lot of fatty food but eating less fruit and vegetables or fiber

Prescription medication:

o Take the 7 bay leaves 1 handful of mushroom + black + 6 spring onions sliced boiled all the ingredients with 6 cups of water until the last remaining 3 cups filtered water and drink 3 times a day while warm, then the mushrooms can be eaten as a vegetable.

o Take the 5 grains angco (seeded) + 6 + 1 spring onions and radishes fruit boiled all the ingredients until cooked and eaten regularly do every day.

o Take 3 ripe noni fruit, washed and chopped 1 handful of peanut shells + ground + 10 + guava leaves 1 handful of fresh leaves Ceremai then all the material was boiled with 6 cups of water until the remaining 3 cups and drink 3 times a day regularly .

o Take 3 ripe noni fruit is then juiced + 2 diuci aloe leaf stems that have been peeled and juiced then all the material was boiled with enough water to boil and drink 3 times a day.

Avoid foods such as quail eggs, brain, liver, spleen, etc. The contents of the animal. Anyway the name coto, soup brother, pallu bases should be sacked from the food menu husband's mother. Frequently consuming foods that contain lots of garlic, but less salt and MSG.

Stroke Treatment Alternative Totok Shaolin

2011-06-19T23:25:00.000-07:00

Alternative Medicine by Totok Shaolin nerve points of the human body, which spread in head to foot, have a relation with one another. If among them there is a clogged, can automatically make the human body function is not active. In addition, it will interfere with blood circulation which helps the spread of food in the body, said Shinse A Shiong, in practice, at Wisma Boga, Solo Baru, Sukoharjo, recently.

For that, there is need for efforts to facilitate the circulation of blood to all organs of the body's normal functioning. And, Shinse A Shiong do alternative medicine with full-blooded way shaolin. Penotokan Shaolin style of Chinese science can be used to treat various diseases. Among these, coronary heart disease, stroke, bone loss, and other severe illnesses that generally doctors gave up.

? Disease Stroke can recover after ditotok nerves,? shinse word origin Kampung Melayu, Tangerang, who accidentally imported by Kunto Hardjono, President Director of PT Pondok Permai Solo. Penotokan on a particular nerve, can directly open the channel stopper blood circulation, plus D Shiong which plans will also practice in Semarang.

In the treatment of full-blooded nerve of this ancient Chinese, Yin and Yang must be balanced first. Patients in the condition of being sick, treatment is easier. Special stroke should come after 12.00 noon. At that time, blood condition position is the part that will ditotok and nerve points that do not work can be seen clearly.

Patients who first went to the place beforehand will ditotok on the soles of the feet. Then around the back to the waist, and ended up in the face. Shaolin-blooded treatment only lasts five minutes. Although only in a relatively short time, the patient will feel the workings of alternative medicine on this one. Penotokan done right at the source cause of the disease.

For people with heart disease, stroke, and bone loss, penotokan not only be done once but it took enough time, so the disease can be completely cured.

Penotokan nerve nuclei, will facilitate the circulation of blood to restore the function of the human body's vital organs are damaged. Patients on therapy this way, can feel the reaction directly.''As I usually do, patients after ditotok by shaolin, immediately felt the difference. And, the pain was reduced,''he said on the sidelines of treating his guests.

As told by Dody, a businessman from Solo Shiong A patient who required heart surgery by doctors at the Hospital of Singapore. After ditotok to fifteen times, coronary disease diidapnya jatung, healed.

Ditotok and''Once cured, I no longer have to go to Singapore. It also helps ease the cost burden that must be my responsibility,''she said, shows an X-ray and laboratory. He besides ditotok, also received the drug at a dose according to the disease. Other narrative, the patient disclosed from Denpasar, Bali, Ny Hermini, bone loss sufferers. RIS

Eye ointment, ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT EYE HOSPITAL

2011-06-19T23:21:00.001-07:00

Everyone must have experienced red eyes. Many factors are to blame as exposed to dust, smoke, or being too long in air-conditioned room. Typically, red eyes due to dust or fumes may disappear by itself after a trigger factor avoided (dust, smoke). If the red eye that experienced prolonged (not healed within a few days) and excreting excessive eye, it is worth us beware. When followed by the eyelids swell and ooze pus, then chances are you developing the disease conjunctivitis or inflammation of the lining of the eye. This inflammation can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies. Moreover, this inflammation can also be suffered by newborns, caused by the bacteria during delivery due to lack of sterility during labor conditions.

Generally, when ordinary people suffered conjunctivitis using eye drops to treat it. Actually, other than eye drops, there are still other alternatives are quite effective and can be used to treat this disease. As the eye ointment that has proven especially useful in the treatment of sore eyes. Basically, eye ointments are not much different eye drops, in terms of its content. Eye ointment that many in the market is eye ointment containing antibiotics and commonly used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis.

Actually, eye ointment has several advantages when compared with eye drops. Eye ointments tend to be more durable (in storage), its use is also more efficient and durable. Unlike the eye drops that evaporate quickly depleted due to wasted with tears, so we should be more frequent use, eye ointment for longer stick in the eye so that the treatment becomes more effective. In patients with acute, eye ointment is recommended instead of eye drops that must be shed every 3 to 4 hours, because of its rapidly disappearing, along with wasted tears. With the use of a smeared on the inside of the eyelid, it is expected the active substance in the eye ointment can work optimally. So expect a more rapid healing.

How to use eye ointments are not much different from the use of eye drops. Both types of drugs (eye ointment and eye drops) is a sterile drug. So to prevent contamination, the tip of the drug container should not be exposed to another surface and cover tightly after use. In addition, one eye medication should only be used for one person. This is important, because the eye pain suffered by one person to another may be different and thus require different types of drugs. In addition, to prevent eye disease transmission to others. Furthermore, drugs that are still left eye one month after the lid is opened should be discarded immediately, because the medicine will be quickly damaged eye after opening.

Currently, eye drugs on the market is very diverse kinds. Some examples of medicinal eye ointments and their trade name, among others:

chloramphenicol (Ikamicetin ®, Spersanicol ®, Reco ®)

gentamicin sulfate (Garamycin ®, Garexin ®)

tetracycline HCl (Ikacycline ®)

acyclovir (Zovirax ®)

neomycin sulfate (Nebacetin ®, Kenetrol ®)

The list of eye ointment mentioned above is just a small part of the eye ointment that you can find on the market. People can freely choose the most suitable drugs for the disease. Provided that before selecting a drug, bekonsultasilah beforehand with an ophthalmologist to determine the cause of the illness. It is advisable not to choose wrong drug. Before already, the best action is to keep our eye health. The trick, among others, with adequate rest, not too old to work at the computer / watching tv, and eating fruits and vegetables that contain lots of vitamin A. Remember, prevention is better than cure.

Asthma

2011-05-31T23:57:00.000-07:00

Which is also free from suffering a prolonged illness is Mosis Nurahman in Bandung, West Java. From birth he suffered from asthma. It's unknown when he was 15 days. Small Mosis often cough in a loud voice without removing the phlegm. When the age of 6 months he experienced high fever accompanied by shortness of breath. ? The word mother sound like a cat,? said the man was 13 years. Up to 11 years old, he underwent a routine hospital care.

At the age of 12 years, starting Mosis mengasup gamat 3 times a day each 1 tablespoon as recommended by his mother. Changes seen a week later, Mosis able to take a cold shower. People with asthma often have trouble breathing because of chest tightness accompanied by swelling of the tonsils when cold. For a year consuming gamat, Mosis increasingly healthy condition of the body. Now she never again went to the hospital, because asthma is gone from his body.

Efficacious
Savor Echinodermata phylum of marine animals that have been known for many countries in the world since long. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), sea cucumbers have the full nutritional content. Among other 9 types of carbohydrates, 59 kinds of fatty acids, 19 kinds of amino acids, 25 vitamins components, 10 types of minerals, and 5 types of sterols. All united to build the body's immune and repair cells damaged.

? The ability of rapid cell regeneration cucumbers, why can treat various diseases,? said Dr. Pieter Pattinama, former director of PGI Cikini Hospital, Jakarta. In the human body regenerate cells persist. Pancreatic cells destroyed in people with diabetes updated by antioxidants cucumbers. Healing of diabetic also thanks to the presence of the mineral chromium insulin hyper performance. This mineral works by absorbing excess glucose in the blood glucose into tissues and suck the blood more quickly.

Zury Azreen bin Azizul Rahman from the School of Health Sciences Malaysia finds, sea cucumbers have a sedative and analgesic effects of lowering blood pressure people with hypertension. During these chemical drugs sedative and pain barrier effect of damaging the respiratory tract, kidney, and liver.

Elsewhere, Dharmananda Subhuti, PhD from the Institute of Traditional Medicine Portland, United States reveal cucumbers contain fatty acids metiltetradekanoik lipoksigenase enzyme inhibitor performance. Enzymes that spur the cause of asthma, respiratory tract damage. According to him, complete nutritional ginseng seabed causing it to be effective supplement. Therefore, it is quite possible gamat a focus for sufferers of stroke and chronic asthma who yearn for healing. (Vina Fitriani)

Besides mosis which also recovered from the disease of asthma is Halimah Hj Omar also feel the benefits of sea cucumbers. Women born in Johor, Malaysia, May 24, 1951 was 17 years old suffering from asthma. Once symptoms of the attack emerged, the son of the 8th of 12 siblings immediately spurred his car into Batupahat Hospital, 2 km from his home. Doctors usually prescribe bentolin neighboring country, niulin, and spray medicine to relieve respiratory road. Unfortunately, when the drugs run out the disease often appears.

Therefore Halimah interested try sea cucumber extract. Mother of 2 children were routinely consume 2 tablespoons 2 times a day. The direct effects of 55 women felt that, I think the body odor (delicious, red), he said when met at his home in numbers Trubus Tamantasik, Johor. Two years after gamat-term regular consumption of sea cucumbers in Malaysia, never asthma relapse.

Sea cucumbers are not only assist the healing process of stroke and asthma. Many other deadly diseases that accomplished by members of the family Holothuriidae like diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, hepatitis, and psoriasis. Sea cucumbers efficacious for almost all cases of the disease. How it works of course different. For example, sea cucumber extract to block uric acid uric acid, for osteoarthritis arthritis aka sea cucumber chondroitin thus providing improved bone fragility, said Dr. Zen Djaja MD in Malang

natural diabetes medicine

2011-05-31T23:54:00.001-07:00

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) also known as diabetes or blood sugar disease is a chronic disease group characterized by elevated blood sugar levels as a result of disruption in the body's metabolic system, where the organ pancreas can not produce the hormone insulin the body needs.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that is responsible for controlling the number / blood sugar levels and insulin is needed to change the (processed) carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy needed human body. The hormone insulin function lowering blood sugar levels.

The best solution for diabetes mellitus are:

One alternative treatment for diabetes mellitus with jelly gamat Gold G sea cucumber (extract teriapng / gamat).
According Dr.Ir.M. Ahkam Subroto, M.App.Sc., Researcher Bioteknolog LIPI, high protein content in sea cucumbers which reached 82%, whether given to diabetics. High protein plays regenerate pancreatic beta cells that produce insulin. As a result, increased insulin production. (Trubus 441, August 2006, page 109).

From the study also proved that the sea cucumber / gamat contain "Cell Growth Factor" (cell regeneration factor) so as to stimulate the regeneration / recovery of human cells and tissues that have been damaged / sick even rot, so be healthy / recovered. Examples are easy for example in the case of diabetes mellitus. Besides drinking, gamat also applied to the wounds that had rotted, even almost amputated. Apparently, "Cell Growth Factor" is able to work well so that wounds heal with cepat.Info booking click here

Chromium content of sea cucumbers are also helping to reduce diabetes insulin performance. The way through the absorption of excess glucose in the blood glucose into tissues and suck the blood more quickly. This causes the consumption of sea cucumbers to prevent and heal disease with diabetes mellitus. That's why high sugar disease and decay Suharmen disappeared obstructed lungs. Gamat then regenerate lung cells so that the disease recover, even if takes 2 years. Ordering info click here

Sea cucumber extract that is what has now become a byword in Indonesian society. Many patients expect recover from the deadly disease by consuming the extract. On the other hand there are many doctors who develop certain diseases, and eating cucumbers for yourself and feel the benefits straight away. The next episode, the doctor recommends, if not practically-prescribe to patients.

Just to mention an example, in Jakarta there is Dr. Pieter AW Pattinama MPH, former director of PGI Cikini Hospital. Long suffered from the attacks of diabetes mellitus since 1972 eventually led. That was after he did acupuncture therapy plus gamat extract consumption. Blood sugar was 59 years old man initially 500 mg / dl decreased to 160 mg / dl in 2 months. (Trubus, Edition: Sunday, July 2, 2006 17:12:52.) Booking info click here

Prof. Dr. Dr. Askandar Tjokroprawiro SpPD from the Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, asserted insulin, a hormone produced by pancreatic beta cell function regulate the metabolism of glucose into energy. If the amount of excess in the blood, diabetes emerges. That led to various complications, such as stroke, cataracts, heart disease, and gangrene. Diabetics are also prone to infection.

Many causes of diabetic foot infections easily. Askandar example, exposed muffler, scuffed shoes due to shortness, small cuts when cutting the nails, the feet are too hot compress. Easy foot infections occur in people with chronic diabetes complications, known as gangrene or ulcers. If left unchecked, the infection resulted in decay in the wound because there was no blood flow. The reason, many diabetics blood vessels are blocked or narrowed. If the wound is rotting, infected part must be amputated.

That's what experienced M Fuad Hartoro Aji in Jakarta. His blood sugar level 700 mg / dl, normal levels of 200 mg / dl. After stopping the consumption of sweet foods, the value of it gently down to a value of 200 mg / dl. While Fuad feel calm with that figure, it does not mean the threat disappears.

In October 2006 when he was enjoying the television show, mosquitoes suck blood in his body. Consequently, the skin of a man born in Jakarta that little red spots. Because itching, Fuad often scratch. As a result, spots that enlarged and swollen with a diameter of 4 cm. Not only that, it developed small bump to 22 points along with blackened feet.

Doctors who treat Fuad decided to pluck one by one bumps it. After two days of hospitalization swelling is gone, but the remaining 0.5 cm deep wound that never closes. Injuries were also made Fuad could not walk because his legs swell and hurt if dipijakkan.

During one year of the wound left by Fuad. In January 2008 his friend, Eddie, thrusting topical sea cucumber and jelly extract a drink. 'I boreh sea cucumber extract to one at a wound to fill the hole,' said Fuad. While observant gamat consumed 3 times 2 tablespoons a day. Three days of sea cucumber jelly routine smear Fuad dumbfounded. All scar shut. Ordering info click here

'It was thanks to the high amino acid content,' said Walter KM Yee, a nutritionist from Luxor Malaysia. There are 11 amino acids in sea cucumbers, among them eicosapentaenat acid (EPA) and docosahexaenat acid (DHA) high, respectively 25.69% and 3.69%. EPA value indicates the speed of sea cucumbers repair damaged tissue.
Wang H and Zhang G from the Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Shanghai Second Medical University, China reveal sea cucumber glycosaminoglycan-rich compounds that are antipenggumpalan and blood clotting. That's why Fuad quickly close the wound.

Gout disease

2011-05-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

Uric acid diseases caused high levels of uric acid in the blood due to disruption of protein metabolism purine.
Normally, uric acid value for women from 2.4 to 6, for men from 3.0 to 7

An increase in blood uric acid crystals Uric There are others which are typical in joint fluid, which tofus There has been proved by chemical examination, occurred more than once an attack of pain in the joints, presence of an attack on a joint, especially the big toe joints joints reddish, The existence of asymmetric swelling in one joint, absence of bacteria and inflammation during the attacks.

Uric Acid Symptoms usually marked with pins and rheumatic pain, pain, especially at night or early morning waking, Joints affected uric acid visible swelling, redness, heat and incredible pain at night and morning.

To cure this disease and keeping things to do, among others:

1. Avoiding foods that can increase uric acid, such as the innards (liver, kidney, spleen, tripe, intestines, lungs and brain), Avoid seafood: shrimp, scallops, squid, crab. Canned food: corned beef, sardines and meat extracts, eggs, meat broth or soup is also food kental.hindari chips, melinjo, kale and spinach, Leaves Cassava, Cashew Leaves, Asparagus, Beans and Flower Kol.Hindari nuts: Nuts Land, Mung Bean, Soybean, Tempe, Tauco-, bean sprouts, Oncom-, Soy Milk.
2. Avoid eating the fruit durian, avocado, pineapple, coconut water
3. Avoid alcoholic beverages and food
4. In obese people, uric acid is usually increased while spending less. So for safety, people are usually advised to lose weight.
5. Drink plenty of water, because by drinking lots of water, we can help get rid of purines in the body.

Solutions for dealing with gout disease

On the island of Langkawi, Malaysia, sea cucumbers are famous as joint pain medication due to uric acid. To Trubus, nutritionist Walter Kee Mun Yee graduated from Wisconsin University told cucumbers contain chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine.

Kondritin sulfate plays restore joint disease. While facilitating antithrombogenik glukosaminoglikan is a substance that clot blood circulation. In gout sufferers, the amount of glucosamine and kondritin little.

Research Dr. Kurk Mittchell of Biomedical Revitalization Center, New York, United States, showed cucumbers efficacious improve physical health for 70% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis due to uric acid. This is due to glucosamine stimulates the body secretes synovial fluid for joint lubrication. According to Dr. Zen Djaja MD, physician in Malang, East Java, wildlife Holothuriidae family members that contain fatty acids 12-MTA alias metthyltetradecanoic acid.
Acid is a powerful block the enzyme 5-lox or popular as lipoksigenase, an enzyme that oxidizes the unsaturated fats into peroxide. According to the doctor graduated from Atma Jaya Catholic University of collagen in the sea cucumber is an enzyme mengaktifk urikase so that a more active break down uric acid into allantoin. Thus, uric acid does not accumulate and cause arthritis. (Shoot, Friday, October 10, 2008 07:14:12)

Li Z, Wang H and Zhang G from the Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Shanghai Second Medical University, China reveal antipenggumpalan sea cucumbers and blood clotting. That's because a glycosaminoglycan compound. At a concentration of 5 micrograms / ml, glukosaminoglikan able to heal the brain of ischemic stroke and ischemic heart disease. Performance by inhibiting the activity of blood coagulation via inhibition of fibrin monomer and increasing the activity of plasmin. Plasmin, plasma protein degrading enzyme that reduces blood clotting. That happens when injuries so that the blood clot.

Sea cucumbers also strengthen bones and joints. The content of chondroitin sulfate to prevent thinning joint inflammation maker. Compounds that repair and rebuild cartilage, forming joints which eroded due to an accident, collision, and excess body weight without side effects. That is why the governments of Australia and New Zealand permit the use of sea cucumbers as a cure arthritis compared to chemical drugs.

Strong bones because of the availability of adequate collagen in the body. According to Prof Dr Hashim Ridzwan sea cucumber contains 86% protein is easily broken down the enzyme pepsin. Of that amount about 80% of collagen. It was as a binder in the growth of bone tissue and joints. In bone growth, calcium supplements alone is not enough because bone consists of calcium phosphate and collagen as a filler. Without collagen bones become fragile and easily broken. Conversely if no calcium, the bones will be chewy like rubber. In addition to caring for the bones and joints, together with keratin, collagen is responsible for skin elasticity.

Faster Way Of Recovery By Using The One Minute Cure For Cancer

2009-07-05T18:44:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for more knowledge, information and reviews about The One Minute Cure, instructions on a faster way of recovery using the one minute cure for cancer? How to deal with cancer cells, swine flu, bacteria and kill disease cells? There are many approach and treatment available to stop diseases, but no one has been effective in fighting the cause of the problem. The One Minute Cure instruction claims to have the formula to help patients cure diseases.

* First Of All Is The One Minute Cure Been Scientifically Proven?

According to scientific researchers and professional health practitioners, this treatment has a faster way of recovery and is effective for treating cancer problems and every form of diseases. It is so safe as it is administering a natural oxygenating substance to deliver oxygen atoms from the bloodstream and distribute it into the cells of the body.

* Now, How Does The One Minute Cure formula Works?

This cure formula can be applied anytime with only one minute a day. And it has already proven that it provides a faster way of recovery and helped many people heal their diseases. Now According to scientific research oxygen therapy allows maximum transportation of blood to the body cells from the blood by increasing oxygen and hemoglobin disassociation.

* Why Do Cancer And Disease Cells Die When The One Minute Cure Is Applied to the Body?

Cancer cells and disease cells like viruses, pathogens, micro organisms cannot thrive in highly oxygenated environment because of their anaerobic nature, The One Minute Cure is able to kill cancer and diseases cells by saturating the body’s tissues and cells with oxygen. Now, the body has a faster way of recovery using the one minute cure for cancer.

* More information and instructions on How to deal with Diseases and Cancer problems.

A person who is sick and has a cancer problem has a very acidic condition. Normally all sick people are acidic and the result is extreme fatigue. We must also remember that cancer and disease cells thrive and multiply in acidic system. Now, in layman’s term oxygen therapy destroys acidity and establishes and alkaline system within with a ph of 7.2 and above. Now, there are also activities that destroys and acidic conditions like relaxation, yoga, exercising and massage therapy to help deal with cancer.

This approach proves and provides a faster way of recovery using the one minute cure for cancer.

Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins

2009-07-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

Varicose Veins (veins that have become enlarged and twisted) can happen to anyone. They occur in the legs and not only look ugly as they grow bigger, but also make movement uncomfortable. However, varicose veins can be treated through sclerotherapy – a medical procedure in use since the 1930s for removal of varicose veins and spider veins. Sclerotherapy basically requires injecting a special chemical known as sclerosant precisely into the damaged vein. Sclerotherapy is normally done in a doctor’s chamber and the entire treatment session takes anything between five minutes and an hour depending on the number of varicose veins are being treated.

The Treatment

During the treatment of varicose veins using sclerotherapy, cosmetic injection is administered directly into the enlarged or varicose veins aggravating the inside layer of the damaged blood vessels. The aethoxysklerol injection makes the varicose veins swell up and attach together. This leads to the clotting of blood inside the varicose veins. Eventually, the varicose veins are converted into a blemished tissue and become paler before fading away. During this process the affected leg is put on an elevated stand to draw off blood before administering and buy aethoxysklerol injection into the varicose veins. It is essential to apply pressure over the varicose veins after administering aethoxysklerol injections with a view to stop blood from returning when the patient stands up. The patient may be required to put on compression stocking or stretch bandages for a number of days after the vein removal treatment to sustain the pressure on the affected leg.

In fact, using aethoxysklerol injections for removal of varicose vein is quite painful and the sclerosant contained in the aethoxysklerol injections may cause burning or cramping sensations at the site of the injection. Normally, depending on the degree of varicose veins and the type of sclerosant used in the injections, a patient having varicose veins may require several shots of the aethoxysklerol injections. Several researches have established that removal of varicose veins as many as 50 to 80 per cent is possible with each session of sclerotherapy. Only less than 10 per cent of the people who have sclerotherapy do not respond to the aethoxysklerol injections at all. Normally, spider veins respond to the treatment in three to six weeks, and larger varicose veins respond in three to four months.

Side Effects

Using sclerotherapy for removal of varicose veins is associated with certain side effects. It has been commonly found that removal of vein by administering aethoxysklerol injections often change the color of the skin along the cured varicose veins. While the discoloration may cause a permanent scar in some people using aethoxysklerol injections, in others it may take six months to a year to fade away. Patients using sclerotherapy for removal of varicose veins may also experience pain, bruising, itching and blistering at the site where the aethoxysklerol injections have been administered. In the event aethoxysklerol injection is shot outside the varicose veins, it may result to ulcers or death of the tissues around the area. Sclerotherapy may also lead to blood clots or injure the deep vein system. One of the major risks of using sclerotherapy for removal of varicose veins is the failure of the treatment to put off the return of varicose veins at a later stage.

Precautions

People who have been administered aethoxysklerol injections for removal of varicose veins would likely be able to walk immediately after the treatment, but they need to take it easy for a couple of days. Although bed rest is not recommended after the vein removal treatment, patients should avoid all strenuous activities for a few days after sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy should not be used in women with varicose veins who are pregnant or lactating. This is primarily owing to the fact that so far it has not been ascertained whether the chemical sclerosant used in aethoxysklerol injections leads to birth defects or gets into breast milk. Aethoxysklerol injections should not be administered to people having a history of allergy to sclerosant or comparable substances. In addition, aethoxysklerol injections may prove to be detrimental to the health of people having blood clots or inflammation in the deep leg veins. People taking aethoxysklerol injections for removal of varicose veins should also not take hot baths, hot compresses, whirlpools or saunas or come under direct exposure to sunlight for a few days after the treatment. Always remember, sclerotherapy done for cosmetic purpose is not covered under insurance.

Wrapping Up

There are several benefits of using sclerotherapy for treating varicose veins. While sclerotherapy is inexpensive compared to surgery, removal of varicose vein through this medical procedure does not require the patient to be admitted to hospital. At the same time, vein removal using sclerotherapy enables a person to return to work and normal activities much quickly. In addition, sclerotherapy also diminishes symptoms and improves the appearance of the skin in 85 per cent of people who have smaller varicose veins.

Cystic Fibrosis Axentis Pharma Initiates Clinical Trial For Lung Infections

2008-09-06T00:37:00.000-07:00

Axentis Pharma AG has initiated a clinical phase IIa trial to assess the safety and tolerability of a new therapeutic formulation for the treatment of severe pulmonary infection in cystic fibrosis patients. The new formulation allows an established therapeutic agent to be delivered directly to the site of infection. The forthcoming trial will also compare the effects of two different doses of the new drug. Initial results are expected in summer 2009. Axentis Pharma acquired all the necessary rights for this formulation from international partners just eight months ago. In addition to these advances, the company has also succeeded in appointing two renowned experts to its Scientific Advisory Board.

Axentis Pharma AG (Switzerland) announced today that all the necessary requirements for a clinical phase IIa trial have been fulfilled. The objective of this trial is to assess the safety and tolerability of an inhalable tobramycin, a well characterised and established drug for the treatment of pulmonary infection in cystic fibrosis patients. The product ARB-CF0223 also known as Fluidosome(R) tobramycin is a liposomal formulation of tobramycin, delivered directly to the site of infection via standard nebulizers. ARB-CF0223 has an improved safety profile and higher efficacy compared to current treatments for infections of the respiratory tract in patients with cystic fibrosis. It can be used in lower doses and also reduces the frequency and severity of side effects for pulmonary infections. The company expects to begin recruiting patients at its four international trial centres by the end of the year.

Dr. Hans Schreier, Chief Scientist of Axentis Pharma on the advances the company has made: "It was only very recently that we obtained all the necessary legal rights including transfer of sponsorship of the EMEA Orphan Designation to further develop our current lead product, Fluidosome(R) tobramycin. However, we are already in a position to initiate clinical trials to fully assess its safety and tolerability and gather information on appropriate doses. I am very pleased for patients suffering from cystic fibrosis, who will benefit directly from this promising once-a-day treatment: a significant improvement both in treatment and patient management. This is also great news for our investors, who have helped us to advance so far in a very short time."

Fluidosome(R) technology is based on the well characterised drug tobramycin. Utilising synthetic liposomes containing tobramycin, a standard nebulizer delivers the drug directly to the endobronchial sites of infection in cystic fibrosis patients. This results in prolonged, high local drug concentration, which in turn achieves higher efficacy and enables lower doses.

The phase II study will be carried out in 4 international centres. A total of 24 patients will receive treatment: Eight will receive a twice-daily 300 mg dose of the current tobramycin formulation over 28 days; another eight will be given a twice-daily 150 mg dose of Fluidosome(R) over two weeks and later a third group will receive one 300 mg dose of Fluidosome(R) per day for two weeks.

The company has also announced the appointment of two renowned experts to its Scientific Advisory Board. Prof. Adriano Aguzzi, Director of the Institute of Neuropathology at University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland and Prof. Gergely C. Lukacs, Canada Research Chair, Department of Physiology at McGill University Montreal, Canada will in future advise Axentis Pharma on scientific and medical issues related to the company's product pipeline.

Dr. Schreier on the latest additions to the team: "Axentis Pharma is very happy to have such outstanding experts on its Scientific Advisory Board. Just as our investors provide us with the trust and financial means that are essential to the ongoing development of our products, Prof. Aguzzi and Prof. Lukacs will contribute to the intellectual capital of Axentis Pharma."

About cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is the most common life-threatening hereditary disease amongst Caucasian populations. The disease is caused by a mutation in the CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator) gene found on chromosome 7. This mutation causes increased secretion deposits on mucous membranes. Lung complications represent the most serious manifestation of the disease Â and the reason for the high mortality rate amongst patients. Such complications often involve infection of the bronchi by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Chronic inflammations then cause lung functions to become blocked. Besides the break-down of lung tissue, this also leads to bronchiectasis and lung failure.

About Axentis Pharma AG

Axentis Pharma AG is a Swiss biotechnology company. The company is using a patent-pending platform technology to develop therapies for diseases caused by incorrect protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum. The most prominent example of such diseases is cystic fibrosis (mucoviscidosis).

About Fluidosome(R) technology

Axentis Pharma's Fluidosome(R) technology uses biocompatible lipids endogenous to the lung that are formulated into small liposomes. This nanocapsules platform opens broad applicability for unmet medical needs including other respiratory diseases. In the case of the Fluidosome tobramycin(R), the interaction between tobramycin and the microbial cell is triggered when the liposomes attach to the outer cell membrane. Tobramycin then leaches into the inner cell compartment, which leads to rapid cell death.

Nature Inspires New Highly Specific Drugs And Organic Products

2008-09-06T00:36:00.000-07:00

The best place to seek novel compounds for pharmaceutical drugs, alternative energy sources, and a host of industrial applications, is within natural systems that have evolved over millions of years. Scientists now realise that the precise molecular arrangements within natural pathways in organisms have been highly tuned for specific processes and provide both compounds that can be exploited directly and vital information over how to synthesise new products by mimicking biochemical processes. The bright future for research and development around such natural products was discussed recently at a conference organised by the European Science Foundaton (ESF), and the European Cooperation in the field of Scientific and Technical Research (COST).

"We found that natural products provide invaluable leads for drug discovery and opportunities to explore chemical and biological pathways, both of which are essential to advancing the life sciences," said the conference chair K.C. Nicolaou from the Scripps Research Institute in the US. Some of the products discussed at the conference were ready for preclinical development, having shown great potential for treating a range of infectious and metabolic diseases as well as cancers.

Such products are creating excitement because they promise to combine more effective treatment with reduced side effects, as well exploiting clean non-toxic synthetic techniques. For example Maurizio Botta from the University of Sienna in Italy discussed the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new compounds for tackling AIDS and HIV by inhibiting reverse transcriptase, the process by which this type of retrovirus virus hijacks the host cell's genetic machinery to replicate itself. Some of these compounds have already exhibited strong activity against the AIDS virus in the laboratory.

There were also a number of promising anti-bacterial agents presented at the conference, which is an important development given the growing resistance of some bacterial species to existing antibiotics and the growing problem posed by MRSA, the "super bug" that plagues many hospitals and nursing homes. Dionisios Vourloumis, research director at the state run Greek research centre NCSR Demokritos, explained how bacteria could be disabled by targeting the RNA binding molecules needed for their genes to be expressed.

It is important to distinguish between the highly specific compounds being developed by researchers in natural products, and existing herbal remedies that often have dubious therapeutic value. "The difference from herbal medicine is that chemists are talking about pure active ingredients, precisely defined at the molecular level, as opposed to crude, multi-component mixtures of compounds contained in herbal medicines," said Nicolaou.

Although, as Nicolaou emphasised, the main focus of the natural products field is on drug discovery and exploitation of biological pathways to treat disease, the synthetic processes involved also have great potential for developing novel products for a variety of industrial applications, particularly in the chemical industry. One active area of research lies in harnessing the reaction centres of photosynthesis to produce clean sustainable energy converted from the sun without using fossil fuels, just as plants do. This could either be done by engineering new types of plant or photosynthesising cyanobacteria, or mimicking these processes to synthesise artificial systems that perhaps are more convenient to deploy.

The synthetic strategies developed to synthesize natural products also have great potential for green chemistry, involving manufacture of compounds for different applications using sustainable techniques that reduce or eliminate toxic by-products, for example in the paper manufacturing industry. The overall focus was in harnessing the tools of chemistry to develop new techniques for synthesising organic compounds for a variety of purposes, with improved efficiency and sustainability.

The ESF-COST conference on Natural Products Chemistry, Biology and Medicine was held near Naples in Italy in May 2008.

Third Clinical Trial Shows Pine Bark Naturally Reduces Knee Osteoarthritis

2008-09-06T00:35:00.000-07:00

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is on the rise. A new study published in the August journal of Phytotherapy Research, reveals Pycnogenol, bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduced overall knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms by 20.9 percent and lowered pain by 40.3 percent. To date, this is the third clinical trial on osteoarthritis treatment with Pycnogenol. This study investigated what happens to joint symptoms after treatment with Pycnogenol is terminated and the results show that no relapse occurred after two weeks. Pycnogenol acts as potent anti-inflammatory and the lasting effects found in this study suggest that Pycnogenol may help the joints to recover.

With osteoarthritis cases on the rise, many are seeking non-traditional medication to help ease the pain and reduce the amount of traditional medication taken. The CDC estimates osteoarthritis affects 34 percent of all adults over the age of 65. In 2005, an estimated 26.9 million adults in the U.S. had osteoarthritis, which was up from 21 million in 1990. While there's no known cure for osteoarthritis, treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or analgesics can help reduce pain and also maintain joint movement, to help the quality of life for people living with the disease. In more severe cases, cortisone shots and joint replacement surgery are used to treat OA.

"The current study is in accordance with the two previous Pycnogenol studies for osteoarthritis," said Dr. Peter Rohdewald, one of the researchers of the study. "Again the pain is gradually decreasing during the course of three months treatment with Pycnogenol. An improvement is found after the first month and a further improvement is seen after two months, where values are significantly different to the placebo group. This study again showed that patients required significantly less analgesic medication while supplementing with Pycnogenol, whereas this was not the case with the placebo-treated control group."

The study was held at Slovakia's Comenius University School of Medicine. One hundred patients with stage I or II OA were included in the study and were randomly allocated to either a Pycnogenol or placebo group. Patients were supplemented with 150 mg Pycnogenol or placebo per day over a period of three months. They were allowed to continue taking their NSAID or analgesics prescribed before the study but had to record every pill taken. The established Western Ontario McMaster questionnaire for joint function was employed to rate the pain level, and obtain measures of joint stiffness and to what extent the arthritis affects participation in daily activities. Patients were investigated in two week intervals over the treatment period of three months and a final time two weeks after discontinuation of medication.

The overall score, summarizing pain, stiffness and daily activities, improved statistical significantly by 20.9 percent in the Pycnogenol group. Interestingly, the joint improvement achieved with Pycnogenol persisted after intake of Pycnogenol was discontinued for four weeks. The joint pain decreased by 40.3 percent after completion of the three months supplementation with Pycnogenol and two weeks later the pain was still 36.1 percent lower than at baseline. Furthermore, 38 percent of patients in the Pycnogenol group required less NSAID's or other analgesic medication for joint pain.

"The anti-inflammatory potency of Pycnogenol explains the success in lowering joint pain and stiffness for arthritic joints," said Rohdewald. "After three recent clinical studies on osteoarthritis, Pycnogenol continues to demonstrate its effectiveness for osteoarthritis symptoms making it a viable, natural and safe alternative for individuals. This is the first study that investigated whether a relapse of symptoms occurs after taking Pycnogenol is stopped. The results show a lasting effect after discontinuation which suggest the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Pycnogenol has allowed the joints to recover."

In another study this year (also published in the journal of Phytotherapy Research), Pycnogenol was shown to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms by 56 percent. Moreover, patients required 58 percent less standard pain medication, which greatly improved the gastrointestinal complications resulting from the pain medication by 63 percent. Last year, a study on osteoarthritis carried out at the University of Arizona Tucson (published in Nutrition Research) discovered that Pycnogenol was effective for improving pain and joint function. After three months in the Pycnogenol group, there was a reduction of 43 percent in pain, 35 percent in stiffness and 52 percent in physical function subscales, respectively. The placebo group showed no significant scores throughout the entire study.

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Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.
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Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide distributor of Pycnogenol has filed for several patents for Pycnogenol's application for COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition and treatment of osteoarthritis.

About Pycnogenol®

Pycnogenol® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 35 years and has more than 220 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol® is available in more than 600 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.pycnogenol.com/.

Natural Health Science Inc. (NHS), based in Hoboken, New Jersey, is the North American distributor for Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all) brand French maritime pine bark extract on behalf of Horphag Research. Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd., Guernsey, and its applications are protected by U.S. patents #5,720,956 / #6,372,266 and other international patents. NHS has the exclusive rights to market and sell Pycnogenol® in North America and benefits from more than 35 years of scientific research assuring the safety and efficacy of Pycnogenol® as a dietary supplement. For more information about Pycnogenol® visit our Web site at http://www.pycnogenol.com/.

A Cup of Green Tea Per Day May Help Keep Skin Cancer Away

2008-09-01T22:21:00.001-07:00

Thursday, October 12, 2006 by: NewsTarget
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that more than 1 million cases of basal and squamous cell cancer will be diagnosed this year according to the Centers for Disease Control.

While avoiding prolonged sun exposure, the regular and proper use of sunscreen, and regular examinations by a board-certified dermatologist are the main actions for preventing skin cancer, green tea may help as well.

"Green tea is reported to have antibacterial, antioxidant, and antitumor properties," says Lawrence Osman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist practicing in Los Angeles. Polyphenolic antioxidants are derived from the extracts of green tea . Also, the most widely studied component of green tea, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, may work by inhibiting ultraviolet induced DNA damage. Inhibiting ultraviolet induced DNA damage may be important because many cases of skin cancer are directly related to ultraviolet exposure from the sun or tanning beds.

The constituents of green tea have already proven effective in helping to prevent skin cancer in the lab. Accordingly, drinking green tea, in addition to avoiding prolonged sun exposure, the regular and proper use of sunscreen, and regular examinations by a board-certified dermatologist, may help prevent skin cancer in life.

About Lawrence Osman, M.D., F.A.A.D. Dr. Lawrence Osman is a board-certified dermatologist practicing comprehensive medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He attended the Keck/USC School of Medicine and completed his dermatology training at the prestigious Roswell Park Cancer Institute. He has particular expertise in skin cancer surgery, laser surgery, and tumescent liposuction. He was voted as one of the best dermatologists by the readers of the Los Angeles Daily News.

Hospitals using alternative treatments in tandem with traditional approaches

2008-09-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

Originally published April 28 2005 at NewsTarget.com
Hospitals across the United States are increasingly using a number of alternative treatment techniques in tandem with their more traditional approaches. The American Hospital Association says about 17 percent of hospitals now offer some sort of alternative treatment such as reiki or massage therapy to complement their traditional physical therapy services. That's up from 8 percent in 1998.

* Psychiatrist Dr. Eric Leskowitz and physical therapist Tamara Geist treat Paul Spada for chronic pain with reiki at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston.
* is one of a number of nontraditional healing practices making inroads into hospitals nationwide.
* According to the American Hospital Association's latest available survey of hospitals, 17 percent of hospitals offered complementary or alternative medicine services in 2002, up from 8 percent in 1998.Along with reiki, other therapies available in local hospitals include therapeutic touch , aromatherapy, massage, energy healing and reflexology.
* Integrative medicine sticks to much of the protocol of conventional medicine, but ties in a holistic approach that incorporates treating the whole person since emotions and attitudes are intimately linked to disease and recovery.Registered nurse Dorene Kominsky of Easton learned this first-hand.
* She introduced complementary therapies by becoming a member of the Pain Control Committee and went on to train 66 nurses in energy healing and reiki .
* Eric D. Leskowitz, director of Spaulding's Integrative Medicine Task Force, is working on a pilot study to measure the impact of energy work on chronic pain and to show that energy work is beneficial beyond the standard approach.''The main idea is to compare those patients who get the standard rehab program with those who get the standard plus twice weekly energy work,'' Leskowitz said.Staff nurse Maureen P. Foye, working with Leskowitz on the study, has spent the past 10 of her 20-year nursing career at Spaulding's Inpatient Chronic Pain Unit incorporating therapeutic touch and energy healing into her treatment of patients while Tamara A. Geist, a physical therapist, provides reiki treatment.''Many patients report decreased anxiety and pain and a deep feeling of peace after a treatment,'' said Foye, who uses therapeutic touch to smooth and balance the energy field which she says can promote healing.'The human energy field extends beyond the body and can become imbalanced, which then affects the physical body,'' Foye said.

Endometriosis and Infertility

2008-08-29T22:22:00.001-07:00

Endometriosis can have a major impact on a womanï¿½s ability to become pregnant. While treatment options exist to help alleviate the effects of endometriosis on female infertility, depending on the severity of the condition, endometriosis can still impact a womanï¿½s chances of getting pregnant. But how exactly does this condition affect female fertility and can endometriosis treatment options significantly increase a womanï¿½s chance of achieving pregnancy?

How Does Endometriosis Cause Infertility?

There are a variety of medical opinions when it comes to explaining how endometriosis causes female infertility.

One such theory is that the scarring that results from endometrial lesions hinders the ability to get pregnant. This is because scarring hinders the fallopian tubes from picking up the egg where it would be fertilized by the sperm. Scarring of the fallopian tubes also prevents the transfer of the egg to the uterus for implantation. The more scarring a woman has due to her condition, the greater her risk of infertility.

Another theory is that menstrual tissue backs up through the fallopian tubes into the abdomen, where it is implanted and then develops.

Other views link endometriosis with infertility because of the biological effect it has on eggs.

Twenty-five to 35% of infertile women have endometriosis.

Other Ways Endometriosis Affects Fertility

Endometriosis can also affect a womanï¿½s ability of getting pregnant in a number of indirect ways. Such effects include:

* scar tissue can result in the development of adhesions around the ovary. This growth limits the area available for a successful release of eggs
* growths can affect the fallopian tubes. As a result, eggs are not picked up and transported to the uterus for fertilization
* in addition, endometrial growths can form inside the fallopian tubes, causing a blockage
* endometriosis can affect fertility by disrupting the regular cycle of egg development and release
* the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis contains a higher number of scavenger cells; cells which are capable of destroying sperm cells, decreasing their chances of getting pregnant

Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options for endometriosis.

Such options include:

* painkillers. These can help to minimize endometriosis symptoms, such as pelvic pain and painful periods.
* surgery. More serious forms of endometriosis require more invasive forms of surgery.
* assisted reproductive technology (ART). Such options include IVF and Gamete Intra-fallopian Transfer (GIFT), in which the egg and sperm are fertilized inside the fallopian tubes. The latter infertility treatment procedure is reserved for women with endometriosis who have healthy fallopian tubes.

Surgery and ART treatment options are generally recommended around a woman who has endometriosis has tried to conceive without success for a period of about one year.

These endometriosis treatment options give women with endometriosis a 30 to 65% chance of getting pregnant successfully.

Alternative Treatment for Endometriosis

2008-08-29T22:21:00.000-07:00

While there are many effective medical treatments available for endometriosis, not all women want to take them. Some women donï¿½t care for the side effects associated with hormonal treatments while others are concerned about having surgery or feel that their endometriosis isnï¿½t severe enough to warrant a surgical procedure. Women who are looking for other options to treat their endometriosis, or would like to complement their medical treatment with other forms of treatment, may benefit from alternative treatments.

Why Go Alternative?

There are many different reasons why some one might choose to turn to complementary medicine to deal with a health issue. Some like the idea of using a treatment that is more natural or organic than conventional medicine while others prefer alternative medicine treatments because of the lack of side effects. Another big draw for many people is the fact that alternative medicine looks to treat the whole person ï¿½ mind, body and spirit ï¿½ not just a physical symptom.

Alternative medicine views itself as patient centred care that looks to use the least harmful and least invasive methods to treat you. While this type of medicine is effective, it can take longer for results to become apparent. This is why alternative medicine typically involves a more long-term commitment. There are many different types of alternative treatments that have developed out of various cultures and have been used for centuries. Among the better-known treatments are acupuncture, herbal remedies, and homeopathy.

Acupuncture

In recent years, acupuncture has gained widespread popularity in the West to treat a variety of ailments, from stress to infertility to PCOS. Said to originate in China more than 3000 years ago, there is evidence to suggest that Europeans may have used acupuncture as much as 2000 years before the Chinese. Despite its longevity, it is not exactly clear precisely how acupuncture works.

Acupuncture operates on the belief that the body is comprised of many different pathways or meridians. Along these acupuncture meridians runs an energy force known as "Qi." If qi becomes blocked or stagnate anywhere along a pathway, it will cause your body to become imbalanced and produce physical symptoms, such as pain or illness. By stimulating the energy through various Acupuncture Points found along the meridians, qi can flow freely again, helping your body regain its balance. This is done by inserting long, thin, sterile acupuncture needles along specific pathways associated with an individualï¿½s symptoms. The needles are left in place for 20 to 45 minutes per session.

In the case of endometriosis, it is thought the acupuncture helps ease the symptoms by improving circulation and stabilizing your hormones. It is also thought that acupuncture may contribute to reducing pain by helping your body release more endorphins, your bodyï¿½s natural defense against pain.

So, just how effective is acupuncture for endometriosis? In one study, that involved 67 women suffering from dysmenorrheal (severe menstrual pain) caused by their endometriosis, half of the women received acupuncture. From this group, 81% of the women reported having less painful periods after the acupuncture.

If you are considering using acupuncture, be aware that it can take several sessions before you benefit from this treatmentï¿½s full effects. You and your acupuncturist will decide upon just how many sessions you require. When making an appointment, be sure to look for a fully qualified professional that has received proper training and is certified through the appropriate regulating boards.

Herbs

Although herbal medicine is often scoffed at by modern science, herbal medicines were actually the first type of medicine people used. In fact, herbal medications have typically served as the basis for the drugs prescribed by doctors today. If you are considering herbal supplements, know that they can be used both internally and externally and are administered in the form of pills, tinctures, salves, teas, and creams.

For women with endometriosis, herbs are used to rebalance hormones as well as heal tissue. In some cases, an herbal remedy may also help to strengthen the immune system. While an herbal supplement can be very potent, it may also take a few months before the full effects are noticed. Never use alternative herbal medicine without first consulting with a qualified herbalist. Also, be aware that herbs can interfere with other types of medications, so always tell your herbalist about any medications you are taking. Likewise, inform your doctor about any herbs you are using before starting a new prescription.

A variety of herbs can be used to help your endometriosis and may include:

* Vitex
* Evening primrose oil
* Dandelion
* Black cohosh
* Motherwort
* Burdock
* Wild Yam
* Cramp Bark
* Horsetail

Just which herbs are used to help you will depend on the type and severity of symptoms you are experiencing.

Homeopathy

Another alternative treatment that has been around for some time is homeopathic medicine. With this therapy, a homeopathic specialist attempts to stimulate your immune system in order to encourage your body to heal itself. In some cases, homeopathic remedies may include the use of herbs to alleviate pain symptoms.

When meeting with a practitioner of homeopathy medicine, you will be asked about your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. Based on this information, a treatment plan will be formulated to deal specifically with the issues bothering you. There is no one standard form of treatment for endometriosis with homeopathy, as every woman experiences endometriosis differently.

Nutrition and Exercise

An important part of all womens health is nutrition along with exercise. Dietary changes can minimize many of the symptoms you are experiencing. Getting regular exercise has been shown to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps as well as help improve circulation. This is especially important for women with endometriosis as better circulation means that your blood is receiving more oxygen, which helps to relax the uterus thereby easing cramps.

Aim to exercise daily at a moderate level for at least 30 minutes. Even just a daily walk after dinner can make a big difference to your endometriosis symptoms.

Herbal Medicine/Phytotherapy

2008-08-29T22:19:00.001-07:00

A proportion of pharmaceutical drugs including current bronchodilators are derived from plants.[14] Most of the recent research in this field focused on pharmacological action and in vitro efficacy of herbal remedies. Li et al.,[15] for example, demonstrate a measurable antiinflammatory activity of Australian and Chinese plants. Since herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Indian medicine (among others), the interest has always been very strong in such natural remedies. A study by Orhan et al.[16] found that 31% of 304 children with asthma had used herbal medicine, and a study by Lanski et al.[17*] found that 45% of children attending an emergency department had used herbal medicine. Until now, there has been no evidence of efficacy of herbal medicine, as pointed out by the systematic review of Huntley and Ernst.[18**] This is mainly because of very heterogeneous, low-quality studies with small patient numbers. The review by Hofmann et al.[19] on the role of dried ivy (Hedera helix L.) in the treatment of children with asthma in three RCTs showed a significant decrease in airway resistance (but only one trial included a placebo control arm). Because of the meager database, no firm statement can be made on the role of dried ivy in asthma. Zhang et al.[20] assessed the efficacy of xiaoqinglong decoction combined with fluticasone in a RCT with 54 patients with mild or severe asthma and found a statistically stronger improvement of lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1] and resistance) with the combination treatment than with fluticasone alone. Urata et al.,[21] in their double-blind, randomized, crossover study, found a significant improvement of bronchial hyperresponsiveness and respiratory symptoms after 4 weeks of treatment with 2.5 g of TJ-96 (herbal complex Saiboku-to) three times daily versus placebo. Older trials with Tylophora indica showed some efficacy in improving asthma control, but no newer studies with larger samples were published since then. Szelenyi and Brune[22] concluded in their complete review about herbal remedies that there is insufficient evidence to recommend their use as first-line or even adjunctive therapy for asthma.

Astonishing and perhaps frightening is the lack of information about the safety of these remedies and the widespread advertising of such therapies, mainly on the World Wide Web, where uncontrolled information lives freely and uncensored. Herbal remedies that have a biologic activity also have side effects[23] and interactions.[24] For example, Mizushima and Kobayashi[25] published a series of 24 cases of interstitial pneumonitis induced by herbal remedies.

We urgently need high-quality, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled studies on the safety and efficacy of phytotherapy in asthma because almost one third of our patients use it without solid information about the risks, interactions, and real benefit.

Naturopathy

2008-08-26T18:00:00.001-07:00

Naturopathic medicine blends many approaches, including botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, traditional Oriental medicine, hydrotherapy, and naturopathic manipulative therapy. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) also take courses in basic medical sciences like anatomy, cell biology, and physiology.

When naturopathy began as a formal health care system in the United States at the turn of the century, there were more than 20 naturopathic or "eclectic" schools. Naturopathic practitioners emphasize prevention and treatment of disease through a healthy lifestyle and control of risk factors, treatment of the whole person, and use of the body's natural healing abilities. They stress nutrition and the therapeutic use of foods to promote health, and to identify and treat the causes of chronic and degenerative disease.

The two accredited U.S. naturopathic medical schools (the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, and Bastyr University of Natural Sciences in Seattle, Washington) together graduate about 50 naturopathic doctors a year. Two additional colleges are candidates for accreditation: the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Ontario. A new program at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut admitted its first students in September 1997. It has been granted a license to operate by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education, and at the end of one year will be eligible to apply as a candidate for accreditation. The Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, based in Eugene, Oregon, is the accrediting agency for naturopathic programs in the United States and Canada.

More than 1,000 naturopathic doctors are licensed in the United States. Eleven states issue these licenses through special boards (Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington). In these states, only licensed persons may use the designation "ND" after their name. Several other states allow the practice of naturopathic medicine. In states that do not have licensure laws, graduates of non-accredited schools, like those offering instruction through correspondence courses, may use the designation ND. They may give seminars, and advise people on lifestyle or nutrition, but they are not permitted to diagnose illness or to prescribe remedies. In New Hampshire, graduates of correspondence schools who were already practicing at the time the licensure law was enacted were allowed to continue doing so under a restricted license. In Tennessee and South Carolina, it is illegal to practice naturopathic medicine.

Massage

2008-08-26T17:59:00.001-07:00

The goal of massage therapy is to achieve or increase health and well-being and to help the body heal itself through manipulation of soft tissues. Various techniques are used, and there are different schools of treatment.

Massage, an ancient technique, was introduced into the United States in the mid-nineteenth century. The first known American practitioners were two New York physicians who had received training in Sweden. In the 1870's Swedish physicians opened clinics in New York. At first physicians performed massage, but they eventually delegated the technique to nurses and physical therapists. An upsurge of interest in the field began in the 1970's.

Twenty-two states and the District of Columbia require massage therapists to have 500 or more hours of education from a recognized school, and some states also require them to pass a licensing examination. The American Massage Therapy Association Commission on Massage Training Accreditation/Approval (COMTAA) accredits 23 programs in 28 locations around the country. Forty additional programs have received approval for their curricula but will have to become accredited by March 1999 in order to remain affiliated with COMTAA.

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCB) administers the most widely used examination. NCB, which is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, administered its first exam in 1992; by September 1997, 27,000 people were certified. Several states have accepted this examination as part of their licensing procedure. Massage therapists are currently licensed in 25 states and the District of Columbia. Some municipalities in states that do not require licensing -- for example, Tucson, Arizona, and Chicago, Illinois -- have passed licensing ordinances.

Some studies indicate that massage helps premature babies gain weight more quickly, reduces swelling of the arm following radical mastectomy, and is effective in relieving pain in patients with soft tissue injuries. Therapeutic touch may be beneficial in wound healing and anxiety

Herbal Medicine

2008-08-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

Herbal medicine is also called herbology, phytomedicine, or botanical medicine. Because many plants have medicinal properties, about one quarter of pharmaceutical drugs are derived from plants. Drugs developed from plant sources include digitalis for heart problems, vincristine for leukemia, morphine for pain, and aspirin for aches, pains, and fevers.

Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes in most cultures since ancient times, either as single entities or as complex mixtures of several herbs or of herbs and other substances. In industrialized societies, use of herbal medicines has declined since the development of powerful manufactured drugs.

Herbal remedies are more widely used in Europe (particularly in Germany and France) and in Asia than in the United States. Because herbs cannot be patented, pharmaceutical companies are unlikely to invest the millions of dollars required to test them and then submit them to the FDA for approval as drugs. Moreover, unlike pharmaceutical companies, which isolate the active substances in herbs in order to produce standardized drugs, advocates of herbal remedies believe that the number or combination of substances in each herb results in a synergy that is superior to the singular impact of extracted drugs.

A meta-analysis (review of pooled studies) of the herb St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) for mild and moderately severe depression, published in 1996 by German and American physicians, concluded that it was more effective than a placebo and was as effective as standard antidepressants but with fewer side effects. The authors raised questions about its methods and cautioned about its efficacy in seriously depressed patients. The active chemical in the herb, they claimed, was not appropriately standardized. Furthermore, the study only compared St. John's wort with anti-depressant drugs that were given at or below their lowest level of efficacy. And, finally, patients were treated for only 6 weeks. An accompanying editorial concluded that: "longer term studies are needed before it can be recommended in major depression."

This report led Wayne Jonas of NIH's Office of Alternative Medicine to call for a trial comparing St. John's wort with the popular antidepressant fluoxetine (Prozac^TM). The Office of Alternative Medicine (OAM), the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) are collaborating on a study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a standardized extract of Hypericum in major depression. NIMH, the administering agency, issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a randomized controlled trial, and Duke University was awarded a three-year contract in the amount of $4.3 million to conduct the study.

Consumers usually choose and administer herbal medicines themselves, following recommendations by friends, employees in health food stores, and the increasing numbers of books, magazines, and magazine articles devoted to the subject. Health food stores display publications by manufacturers that contain articles recommending the use of particular herbs.

Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practitioners usually blend several herbs into one mixture. These mixtures have been effective in treating, for example, atopic eczema and acute bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus in infants. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine administers an examination in Chinese herbal medicine.

Herbs that have been beneficial, according to researchers, also include: bromelain (reduced post-surgical pain and swelling); topical capsaicin from chili peppers (decreased tenderness and pain in osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, and post-herpetic neuralgia); cranberries (decreased urinary tract infections); evening primrose oil (decreased breast pain, both cyclical and constant, reduced itching in atopic eczema, decreased use of painkillers in rheumatoid arthritis); feverfew (prevented severe migraines); garlic (lowered cholesterol, inhibited blood clotting); ginger (reduced nausea and vomiting); ginkgo (improved blood flow in small blood vessels); licorice (acted as an anti-inflammatory agent during treatment of stomach and intestinal ulcers); milk thistle (helped to restore diseased livers); saw palmetto (decreased symptoms of an enlarged prostate); sweet wormwood (decreased malaria parasites in the blood); and valerian (induced sleep). Some herbs, however, are either dangerous or can interact harmfully with prescription drugs.

Acupuncture

2008-08-26T17:43:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine. Its underlying philosophy is that health is a state of harmony, or balance, of the opposing forces of nature. Disease represents an imbalance of these forces that leads to excesses or deficiencies of life energy in various organs, resulting in illness if not corrected. The life energy, called qi, is believed to flow through the body in pathways called meridians which connect its surface with the internal organs. Treatment consists of redirecting and balancing energy flow.

Acupuncture has been used in China for more than 2,000 years. Although it has been applied in some Western countries since the late nineteenth century, it became popular in the United States only in 1971, when a New York Times columnist, James Reston, received acupuncture after surgery and wrote about the experience.

Acupuncture practitioners usually insert fine needles through the skin at points along the meridians. Some practitioners may use pressure (acupressure, also called shiatsu), heat, friction, suction, or electromagnetic energy to stimulate these points. Although in China acupuncture is used to treat many conditions, in the United States, it is applied most often to relieve pain.

There are more than 40 schools and colleges of acupuncture in the United States, 20 of which have either been approved, or are currently being reviewed for approval, by the National Accreditation Commission for Schools and Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. An estimated 6,500 acupuncturists practice in the United States; of these, about 3,300 have taken the examination administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists. Thirty-two states regulate the practice of acupuncture, according to The Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States.

Acupuncture may also be performed by naturopathic doctors or chiropractors "in at least 12 states," according to the Traditional Acupuncture Institute. An estimated 3,000 physicians have taken short courses in acupuncture and may use it in their practices. Several studies find that acupuncture is helpful in treating chronic low back pain, neck pain, arthritic pain of the knee, post-surgical pain, kidney-stone pain, menstrual cramps, and chronic angina. Other studies offer evidence that acupuncture can reduce the nausea and vomiting that accompany pregnancy, sea sickness, chemotherapy, or surgery. Acupuncture has also been documented as helpful to people who are withdrawing from substances they abuse. Studies have reported that acupuncture helps stroke patients, improves exercise performance in young men, and increases uterine contractions in pregnant women who are past their delivery dates. Some experts make a claim for the value of acupuncture in treating bladder instability, sinus problems, and migraine headaches.

A conference convened by the National Institutes of Health in November 1997 reviewed the scientific and medical data on the use, risks, and benefits of acupuncture and issued a Consensus Development Statement. A panel of experts concluded that "there is sufficient evidence of acupuncture's value to expand its use into conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value." Moreover, the panel found that in many cases, the "data supporting acupuncture are as strong as those for many accepted Western medical therapies."

Ayurveda

2008-07-30T00:51:00.001-07:00

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda translates to "knowledge of life." Based on the idea that disease is due to an imbalance or stress in the individual's consciousness, Ayurveda encourages certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies to regain a balance between the body, mind, and the environment.

Ayurveda treatment begins with an internal purification process, followed by a special diet, herbal remedies, massage therapy, yoga, and meditation. Studies have shown reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and reaction to stress in people who practiced Ayurvedic methods.

In India, Ayurveda is considered a form of medical care, equal to conventional Western and homeopathic medicine. Practitioners of Ayurveda in India undergo state-recognized, institutionalized training. However, Ayurvedic practitioners are not licensed in the United States.

Ayurveda can have positive effects when used as a complementary therapy in combination with standard/conventional medical care.

Alternative Therapy - Massage Therapy

2008-07-30T00:50:00.000-07:00

What is massage therapy?

Rubbing areas that hurt is a natural human response. Massage therapy is based on the same principle: rubbing and manipulating muscles, which increases blood circulation and enhances relaxation. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) considers massage therapy to be a manipulative and body-based method of complementary and alternative medicine.

Can massage therapy help people with cancer?

There is no evidence that massage therapy has any helpful effect on cancer as a disease, but short periods of massage can provide physical and emotional benefits for cancer patients. Massage can provide relief of muscle tension, low back pain, chronic fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

How does massage therapy work?

Massaging muscles and soft tissue stimulates nerves, increases blood flow, and relieves stress in the muscles.

What are the different massage therapy techniques?

Over the centuries, several massage techniques have developed, including the following:

Swedish massage
This technique involves the use of long, smooth strokes and deep circular movements that knead and compress the muscles.
Neuromuscular massage
Like Swedish massage, this technique includes stroking and kneading the muscles, but neuromuscular massage reaches deeper muscles more effectively.
Oriental massage
Oriental massage involves finger pressure designed to treat specific points on the body.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of oriental massage that combines pressure and stretching techniques.
Thai massage
This massage technique involves the use of yoga and certain Chinese traditional medicine methods.

Many therapists combine all types of massage to relieve stress, anxiety, and muscle tension, and to improve circulation. Massages are usually given in a quiet room, sometimes with soothing background music or aromatic oils to enhance the relaxation response. The therapist usually asks you to lie down on a special massage table or in a special massage chair called seated massage and will use his/her hands to stroke and apply pressure to your body.

Massage therapists are licensed in 34 states and the District of Columbia. Most states require 500 or more hours of education and a licensing examination.

In 37 states and the District of Columbia massage therapy is regulated by law with specific guidelines. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) has set up standards of practice and also administers a national certification examination. It is used in many states and the District of Columbia as a requirement to practice.

Are there any possible problems or complications associated with massage therapy?

Generally speaking, massage is safe but should be avoided with certain conditions such as joint inflammation, injury, open wounds, skin infections, or phlebitis. Consult your physician regarding those conditions for which massage therapy would not be recommended.

Massage therapy, as an addition to your cancer treatment plan, has the potential to be pleasant and productive, but should not replace the care and treatment provided by your cancer care team. Always consult your physician for more information.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

2008-07-30T00:47:00.000-07:00

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses non-conventional approaches to healing beyond traditional medicine.

Complementary medicine and alternative medicine are two different approaches.

Complementary medicine is any form of therapy used in combination with other alternative treatments or standard/conventional medicine. Complementary therapy usually serves to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Alternative medicine is used alone without recommended standard treatment.

Integrative therapy combines conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine. Some scientific evidence shows integrative therapy to be safe and beneficial.

Some people use complementary treatments to relieve symptoms or side effects while undergoing standard/conventional treatment (such as pain relief during cancer treatment). Standard/conventional medicine refers to medical treatments that have been scientifically tested and found to be safe and effective. The standard/conventional treatments have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Other people may decide to pursue either complementary or alternative therapy. It is highly recommended that you consult your physician before beginning any treatment regime, as these treatments are not scientifically tested or proven.

Rhodiola Rosea and Anti-aging

2008-06-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Adaptogens

One of the most exciting therapies in the field of anti-aging involves adaptogens.

Though adaptogens were not given their name until 1947, by the Russian scientist Dr. Nicolai Lazarev, the substance has been used for thousands of years in China and Russia. Nowadays we know that adaptogens are herbal substances that helps adjust the body's response, on the cellular level, to various stresses put upon it. This regulates many of the body's systems, including the immune system, nervous system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system and mental functions. Studies have shown that adaptogens can increase mental clarity and physical energy, enhanced immunity and resistance to disease, and reduced recovery time after exercise. Other reported effects are an improved metabolism and more restful sleep. Over recent years, hundreds of experimental and clinical studies on adaptogens have been done - most of them in Russia and Germany. Most of these studies have shown the outstanding stress-protective and immune system enhancing capacities of adaptogens.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea, also known as Arctic Root or Golden Root, is a plant that is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia and the Arctic region. It grows in dry, cold areas and has been a staple in the diets of many Eastern European and Scandinavian countries for centuries. Traditionally, the plant was given to betrothed Siberian couples to ensure the birth of many healthy children.

Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb. Siberian Rhodiola rosea extract has also shown to reduce and/or prevent stress-induced cardiac damage, decrease myocardial catecholamines and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. It also reduces adrenal catecholamine release, and can prevent heart arrhythmia. Siberian Rhodiola rosea is also capable of improving thyroid function without the side affects of hyperthyroidism.

During periods of exercise or intense athletic training, Siberian Rhodiola rosea has been shown to improve glycogen (the muscle fuel) production and therefore increase muscle power and energy. This also help to stave off fatigue during intense activity.

It boosts the breakdown of fat cells and so can actually help the body burn fat better and help with weight reduction and improved metabolism.

Real Siberian Rhodiola rosea root extract must contain rosiridin, rosavins and salidroside in ratios approximately 3:1:1 that reflect the phytochemistry of the natural plant. For example, the extract of Siberian Rhodiola rosea root should contain minimum 3% rosavins, 1% rosiridins and 1% salidroside.

Caution

Currently, there are no known drugs or herbal interactions associated with Rhodiola; however, research is still being done on the product, especially here in the West. One should not take Rhodiola while pregnant or breast-feeding as the risks to pregnant women and nursing mothers have not been studied enough to know for certain if there is a potential hazardous interaction. Because Rhodiola is a stimulant, individuals with manic-depression (bipolar disorder) should not take this product. Irritability and insomnia are two of the more common side effects of Rhodiola. They are usually seen when more than 1,500 mg of the herbal is taken a day.

Black Cohosh for Menopause

2008-06-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

The Natural Secrets of Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is also known as Black Snakeroot, Bugbane, Bugwort, and Squawroot. This plant is native to shady woodlands in the United States and Canada. It is easily recognized from its rich green leaves, and tall flowering stems, which are covered with white blossoms. It is also known for its unpleasant scent. Its root is almost black and thick and knotted. Through the ages, the Native Americans and Aborigines were fond of using as a comforting brew for rheumatism, reducing inflammation of painful joints, improving circulation and relieving pain. Black cohosh contains vitamins A and B5, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, lipids and resin.

How Black Cohosh Works

Studies have led scientists to believe that Black Cohosh works on two levels. Firstly, it comes from a family of plants well known for their ability to deaden pain, so Black Cohosh acts as a painkiller. Beyond this, Black Cohosh contains a collection of steroid like compounds that are thought to be at the root of its anti-inflammatory activity. These compounds are believed to act locally (applied) and generally (taken internally) to reduce joint inflammation.

Black Cohosh has been found to contain chemicals that affect the female reproductive tract, two noted examples being formononetin and cimicifugoside. Formononetin, an isoflavonoid, has been shown to stimulate the production of estrogen and to have an anti-cancer activity. Formononetin has also been shown to be a fungicide. The presence of this anti-fungal agent can improve and prevent symptoms of Candid Albicans (thrush).

Black Cohosh and Menopause

Black Cohosh can also help to ease the passage into menopause. The herb has weak estrogenic effects which help reduce the number, severity and frequency of hot flushes and night sweats as well as warding off insomnia, mood swings, nervousness, irritability, heart palpitations and headaches. Many practitioners would recommend the short term use - up to six months- of black cohosh as a natural alternative to HRT.

Most studies of black cohosh have used the extract known as Remifemin, which is standardized to contain 1 mg of terpene glycosides per 20-mg tablet. The most commonly used dosage of Remifemin is two 20-mg tablets twice daily. Maximum effect usually occurs in four to eight weeks.

It is interesting to note that another compound found in Black Cohosh, cimicifugin, has been found to reduce blood pressure. As well as this, cimicifugin has been shown to increase coronary circulation to the heart, which may make Black Cohosh of interest to women who have already developed heart disease.

* Applications; the rootstock should be collected in the fall, after the leaves have died down and the fruit has appeared. Decoction: boil 2-tsp. rootstock in 1 pint of water. Take 2 to 3 tbsp. 6 times a day, cold.

* Fluid extract: a dose is from 5-30 drops in liquid daily.

* Tincture: made by half-filling a pint or quart bottle with the powdered root, adding diluted alcohol (not rubbing alcohol) or whisky until the bottle is full, and agitating once or twice a day for two weeks. Doses range from 1-30 drops in a tsp. of water.

Black cohosh can be purchased in capsule form and the recommended dosage is 1 capsule, 3 times daily.

Caution; excessive intake of Black cohosh can cause nausea, vomiting and vertigo.

Herbal Medicine Chinese

2008-01-17T00:20:00.000-08:00

The Chinese have been treating illnesses and disease with herbs as far back as the 3rd century BC; the same tradition is widely used today. Herbal medicine is based on the theory of Yin and Yang where everything has an equal, for example for good there is bad, light there is dark. This theory correlates to the body in that elements in the body are out of harmony and body may lack vitality.

What illnesses or Ailments can Chinese Herbs be used for?

There are a multitude of ailments and illness for which Chinese herbs may be used, the length of treatment will depend entirely on the person and the stage or severity of there illness.

The beauty of Chinese medicine is that it can be used on people of any age and with adjustments for the amount consumed it can be used for children and even pregnant women. The herbs are available to be taken in many different ways but the most commonly used method is boiling dried herbs to make a tea for drinking.
The Herbs
Alfalfa has been commonly used by the Chinese as a treatment for kidney stones and to aid the relief of swelling and fluid retention, alfalfa is also well known for its cleansing merits and will aid the digestive, glandular and systems.

Angelica Root can help with problems due to respiratory disease and also problems with the digestive system.

Bilberry is beneficial for the eyes particularly for eyestrain and glaucoma; it is also used in the treatment of thinning the blood.

Black Walnut hulls hold a substance which helps to rid the body of parasites and is also commonly used in the treatment of ringworm and other skin problems.

Burdock is a natural aid in the cleansing and detoxification of the body it is particularly useful for those suffering skin ailments and is used to help bring relief to joints. Burdock can also be used to treat respiratory infections.

Catnip is an excellent remedy for the nervous system with its calming properties; it is also used in treatment of the digestive system. It is also thought to help relieve symptoms of colds and flu.

Chamomile is perhaps best known in the tea form it will relieve symptoms relating to the stomach and nervous system and also will help relieve menstrual discomfort.

Comfrey is thought to be one of natures greatest all round healers; it is excellent for strengthening the respiratory system.

Dandelion is one of the herbs used in medicine that everyone has heard of and is commonly used purifying the blood, it also used for problems occurring with the circulatory system.

Echinacea is said to boost the nervous system and is also useful in the treatment of respiratory infections.

Garlic is another well known treatment used to help maintain a healthy blood pressure and boost the body’s ability to resist illness. It is also mother natures antibiotic.

Ginseng naturally boosts the immune and circulatory systems.

Hops are a natural remedy for insomnia and will also give a boost to the nervous system. It is also considered to help in the aid of relaxation.

Licorice is known for it’s powerful expectorant properties and as such aids the respiratory system. It also is similar to cortisone and helps the body cope with stress.

Peppermint holds the ability to calm nerves and also the stomach.

Safflower is used to aid the respiratory system and is particularly useful in assisting easier removal of phlegm.

Thyme holds powerful antiseptic properties and is also used as an all round general tonic and particularly useful for anaemia and bronchial ailments.

White Oak is said to aid in the strengthening of injured areas of the body and has powerful astringent properties it will also soothe a sore throat.

Yellow Dock Root is particularly noted for its high content of iron and so will help in purifying the blood; it will also help with gallbladder and liver problems.

Nutrition and arthritis

2006-03-21T22:48:00.000-08:00

Learn how proper nutrition can help remedy arthritis.

In America there is one out of every seven people that suffer from some form of arthritis. There are over one hundred different forms of arthritis, all having much of the same characteristics, such as joint inflammation, stiffness, swelling, and pain. Two most common forms of arthritis are Osteo-arthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is where the joint cartilage usually breaks down people with this kind of arthritis may have defective cartilage that makes it not withstand normal wear and tear and rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that can cause severe pain and crippling and this arthritis develops when an overactive immune system attacks connective tissue in the joints causing inflammation and pain.

It has been noted that during the past most doctors dismissed diet as having any part in the preventive role of arthritis. But in today’s medical world there has been research that has proved this theory wrong. Researchers have found out that glucosamine, a natural body substance that protects cartilage and stimulates its growth, and chondroitin, a substance found in gristle and cartilage. The studies show that the combination of these two slows and possible may reverse the effects of Osteoarthritis. You can find these two supplements in health food stores.

They have also found through research that fatty oils aid in reducing inflammation, pain and redness in many forms of arthritis. Omega-3 in the main oil, this oil can be found in salmon, sardines, halibut and other cold-water fish. Doctors suggest eating these fish at least three to four servings per week. There are fish oil supplement tablets available, but they are not as good as eating the fish itself. There is also a cream available to rub on swollen joints, it is called capsaicin, contains an oil found in red peppers. Capsaicin is absorbed through the skin and reduces inflammation.

Unfortunately there is no cure for arthritis so many people who suffer are constantly looking for relief. Take heed, there are many medicines and therapies available that state that are the miracle cure. Most are worthless and sometimes dangerous. It is best to consult your doctor before venturing into an unknown cure.

Nutrition for AIDS and HIV infected patients

2006-03-21T22:47:00.000-08:00

When one is infrected with the HIV virus they should be cautious of their nutritional intake, to help maintain health and lifespan.

There is still no cure for AIDS, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and there is not a set diet for a person with HIV, which is the virus that causes the disease, AIDS. But good nutrition can play a part in preventing weight loss and other AIDS complications. When patients are diagnosed with HIV, Doctors will usually advise the patients while they are not ill, to seek nutritional advice from a qualified clinical dietician. This helps the patient prepare and learn about nutrition.

Maintaining a healthy diet with AIDS is complicated, due to a person with AIDS often has cases of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a loss of appetite either from the disease itself or the medication they take. AIDS affects the digestion system also, which makes it hard for the body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, riboflavin, thiamine, and vitamins B6 and B12. A person with AIDS, often experiences rapid weight loss, when this happens patients have to be fed through tubes, if nutrients are not being absorbed properly doctors will often prescribe this procedure even if there is no rapid weight loss.

The HIV virus attacks the immune system this makes a person not able to defend against infections and diseases. There is a higher risk of HIV infected persons to get food poisoning from bacteria such as salmonella, shigella and campylobacter. These bacteria can cause death to HIV positive persons. Because of this people with HIV or people who prepare food for HIV patients need to pay close attention to food safety.

When preparing eggs they should be boiled at least seven minutes or until hard, fish and meats should be cooked until well done. Raw oysters and other shellfish should be avoided entirely and anything with raw eggs. Such as homemade mayonnaise and ice creams, commercial mayonnaise and hard ice cream and sherbet are safe.

Patients with the HIV virus and AIDS patients are often given multiple vitamin and mineral pills to prevent nutritional deficiencies, but supplements with mote than one percent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance should only be administered by a Doctor. Many AIDS and HIV infected people are turning to herbal medicine as a self-care approach. But many herbal medicines may cause allergies in AIDS and HIV infected persons so the herb or herb mixture must be checked with doctor before administering.

Garlic and health benefits

2006-03-21T22:45:00.000-08:00

Is it really healthy to eat garlic? Here is an explanation of garlic and its health benefits.

Allium sativum - garlic, whose family members include onions, scallions, chives and shallots is a favorite, pungent flavoring agent around the world, but there's lots more to it than flavor!

Louis Pasteur proved that garlic had antibiotic properties by putting a small piece in a petri dish of bacteria, which it quickly killed. That was the first of thousands of modern scientific experiments using garlic - The Journal of the American Medical Association reported in the November 1990 edition that garlic has been described as therapeutic in more than 1,000 scientific studies!

As far back as 3,000 years ago, people were using it medicinally. It was a part of the diets of the slaves who built the pyramids. The ancient Greeks used it before battles and races. More recently, it was used to treat infected battle wounds of the First World War.

Is it really beneficial for the average person to eat it, though? Like most foods and substances, the answer is difficult to come by.

Some studies have shown that as little as half a clove of garlic a day can reduce cholesterol up to nine percent and because of that, reduce the risk of heart attack up to eighteen percent. Others say it will reduce cholesterol up to seventeen percent, still others say it has little if any effect. It's worth noting that many, many more studies show a reduction in cholesterol than those who don't.

We do know that it lowers blood pressure by enlarging or stretching blood vessels. One researcher noted that decreased blood pressure could be measured after patients took only one garlic powder capsule.

It's also an anticoagulant and could be helpful in protecting from clots which cause strokes. If you're taking aspirin to keep your blood from forming clots, garlic may be a more pleasant way. Mixing aspirin or other blood thinning medicines with garlic can be dangerous under some circumstances though, and should be done under a doctor's care.

It's been discovered that ulcers can be the result of viral infections, against which garlic can be a useful, internally taken, substance. It also is helpful against parasites, bacterial infection, cancer, and even slows the growth of existing tumors.

Garlic works inside the body by promoting the ability of white blood cells to fight infections, and by stimulating other immune cells like macrophages and T-cells which fight viral and bacterial infections, as well as cancer cells. In other words, it helps your body to help itself, and neither bacteria nor virus can develop a resistance to that.

Raw or cooked? It's still under debate. Some studies say one thing, some say another. Garlic pills are thought to be as effective as raw garlic cloves by some; by others they're thought to be useless. Standardized doses make it easier to track the effectiveness, but there are questions as to the effectiveness of garlic at all after it's been tampered with.

The reasoning is that the power as well as the taste and odor of garlic is released when a clove is bruised, cut or chewed. Allicin thus released oxidizes quickly and breaks down into over a hundred different substances, not all of which are proved to be helpful to the human body.

What can we believe? It's best to go with what we know to be true.

1. Raw garlic is an antibiotic, taken internally or externally.
2. It lowers blood pressure in pill form.
3. It's an anticoagulant in any form.
4. It inhibits the growth of cancers and tumors in raw form.

With all the benefits to the average person, it should be included in every other diet every day. Especially in the US, where overweight, high blood pressure and heart problems are common health concerns, a daily dose of garlic is a part of a sensible, healthy diet.

Note: Individuals who take anticoagulants or who have hemophilia, or need to guard against low blood pressure need to consult their doctors and/or alternative health care specialist.

What is folic acid used for?

2006-03-21T22:42:00.000-08:00

Getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet? Learn more about folic acid and its essential role in the human body.

Folic acid comes in several forms. It is known by the following names, folate, leucovorin calcium, folinate calcium, folacin, folate sodium and vitamin M. Folic acid is an integral component of several enzymatic functions in the human body. It is also vital to the formation of red blood cells and without it the development of bone marrow would be stunted. Folic acid is also useful in the proper functioning of the entire central nervous system. However, folic acid’s perhaps most important function is in growth and reproduction. Without folic acid, the manufacture of nucleic acids - the stuff cells are made of - would not be possible.

The dietary sources for folic acid are primarily the green, leafy vegetables. You can also find high concentrations of folic acid in liver and mushrooms. All the root vegetables are excellent sources of folic acid, as are nuts, dried beans and peas. Folic acid can also be found in oranges and nuts. Egg yolks provide and optimal source of folic acid as well.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, folic acid deficiency does occur and can lead to abnormally low levels of red blood cells in the system. This results in anemia. The primary symptoms of folic acid deficiency include extreme fatigue, nausea and lack of apetite. Individuals experiencing deficiency may also have mouth sores and hair loss. Diarrhea is common. In infants and children, folic acid deficiency can cause growth retardation.

Recommended intakes of folic acid vary, and excessive folic acid is not considered toxic. However the consensus among professionals seems to be anywhere from 100 to 1000 micrograms daily, depending on level of deficiency. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

The benefits and dangers of flouride in water

2006-03-21T22:36:00.000-08:00

Getting enough fluoride vitamins and minerals in your diet? Learn more about fluroide and its essential role in the human body.

Fluoride comes in several forms. It is known by the following names, calcium fluoride, stannous fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, and sodium fluoride. Sodium fluoride is added to most public drinking water.

The prime dietary source for fluoride are typically treated drinking water however, it also shoes up in foods and beverages that have been grown in areas where the drinking water has been fluoridated and then used in the manufacture of those products.

Fluoride’s primary function in the human body is to strengthen the bone and it is known to prevent tooth decay. Experts contend that fluoride strengthens the teeth’s enamel by strengthening the mineral composition of the teeth themselves. Once the composition of a tooth is strengthened by fluoride it can then ward off or at least be more resistant to attack from acid accumulation in the mouth. Fluoride intake is ideally begun early in childhood when the formation of teeth and bones is still taking place, therefore strengthening the initial buds for the future. Fluoride is known to aid in strengthening developing bone structure.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, fluoride deficiency does occur but typically only in regions where water that is regularly consumed is not treated with fluoridation. Of more concern with fluoride is excess intake.

Fluoride taking in large quantities over time slowly poisons the human body. Prolonged intake of treated water that contains more than 2 parts fluoride per million (ppm) can lead to discolored, mottled or brownish enamel on the teeth. Extremely high concentrations, over 8 ppm can contribute to bone disorders, kidney, liver and adrenal failure as well as the heart, reproductive system and central nervous system. This is especially dangerous in young children and the elderly.

Recommended intakes of fluoride vary, however the consensus among professionals seems to be no more than 2.5 milligrams daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

Vitamins and minerals: what is chromium?

2006-03-21T22:35:00.000-08:00

Getting enough chromium vitamins and minerals in your diet? Learn more about chromium and its important role in the human body.

Chromium comes in two forms, and it is alternately known as GFT or the glucose tolerance factor, and chromium amino acid chelate. Chromium is integral to the proper functioning of many enzymatic processes in the human body. Chromium is also essential in the breakdown of sugar and the conversion of sugar into energy. It also functions in the production of many fats in the body. It is also thought that chromium may play a very important role in protein production within the human body.

The dietary sources for chromium are vast and varied. Traces of chromium are found in a large amount of foods. The most excellent sources of chromium in dietary products are whole grain cereals. Most meats and dairy products are excellent sources as well. Chromium can also be found as an additive in some chewing gums sold at health food stores.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, chromium deficiency does occur and is fairly common in the United States. Severe chromium deficiency often because the soil in the United States has low traces of this mineral, therefore foods grown from the soil contain little if any chromium. Eating too many prepackaged and processed foods can also lead to chromium deficiency because and inadequate amount of chromium over long periods of time inhibits the human body’s ability to process sugar which leads to symptoms of high blood sugar. Other symptoms of chromium deficiency include artherosclerosis, depressed growth, mental confusion, tiredness and fatigue. Often there will be a tingling sensation in the hands or feet or both extremities.

Recommended intakes of chromium vary, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between 5 to 10 micrograms daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner as chromium is poisonous if taken in excess or oversupplemented.

Vitamins and minerals: what is biotin?

2006-03-21T22:33:00.000-08:00

Getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet? Learn more about biotin and its integral function in the human body.

Biotin comes in two forms, and it is alternately known as vitamin H and Coenzyme R. Biotin is integral to many of the activities of enzymes in the human body. It is necessary for the breakdown of fatty acids in the human body. Biotin is also essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates. It is integral to the conversion process which takes fatty acids and carbohydrates in the body and converts them into energy. This then allows for production of fats and excretion of protein breakdown products.

The dietary sources for biotin are vast and varied. Biotin is available in a large number of foods. Liver and nuts are especially rich in biotin concentrations. Beans and egg yolks are also excellent dietary sources of biotin. Cauliflower is yet another consumable source of biotin for the human body.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, biotin deficiency does occur. Severe biotin deficiency often occurs in individuals who have general ill health. Symptoms of deficiency may include depression and poor appetite. An individual suffering from biotin deficiency may seem lethargic, weak or easily fatigued. Hair loss may result from biotin insufficiency. Additionally in some cases of severe biotin deficiency, eczema occurs. The eczema can appear anywhere on the body but primarily targets the face. Occasionally deficiency will result in a slight swelling or inflammation of the tongue as well.

Recommended intakes of biotin vary, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between 35-60 micrograms daily, depending on severity of deficiency. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

Vitamins and minerals: what is selenium?

2006-03-21T21:45:00.000-08:00

Getting enough selenium vitamins and minerals in your diet? Learn more about selenium and its essential function in the human body

Selenium comes in several forms. It is known by the following names: selenium yeast, selenium sulfide, selenium acid, and sodium selenite. Only minute quantities of this mineral are needed, although the lack of it can cause many problems in the human body.

The dietary sources for selenium are usually associated with the soil where they were grown. Vegetables and grain products often have a higher selenium content if the mineral was present in the soil from which they were harvested. Most meats and fish contain selenium, and are an excellent source of this mineral. Dairy products are also a good dietary source of selenium.

Selenium’s primary function in the human body is to work in conjunction with vitamin E in the preservation and elasticity of the tissues. It is also neccessary in the slowing down of the process of aging by increasing endurance and improving the blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle. The prostoglandins in the human body which protect against high blood pressure cannot be formed without selenium. Prostoglandins aid in the prevention of abnormal blood clots, thereby preventing stroke and heart attack. Prostoglandins also assist in the stimulation of uterine contractions in pregnancy.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, selenium deficiency does occur. Severe selenium deficiency often causes muscle pain and tenderness. It may also result in a constriction of the tissues due to loss of elasticity, and may also result in weakness and decreased stamina. Selenium deficiency can also lead to a fatal form of heart disease in children.

Recommended intakes of selenium vary and such a small amount is needed that it usually is easily obtained from dietary source, however the consensus among professionals seems to be between 50 to 200 micrograms daily1, depending on level of deficiency. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner

What is pantothenic acid?

2006-03-20T23:12:00.000-08:00

Learn more about what pantothenic acid is, and its essential function in the human body.

Pantothenic acid comes in three forms, and it is alternately known as vitamin B5, panthenol and calcium pantothenate. Pantothenic acid is integral to many of the activities of enzymes in the human body. It is necessary for the manufacture of energy from both sugars and fats in the system as well as the utilization of other vitamins. Pantothenic acid is also essential to the manufacture of fats, corticosteroids and the sex hormones, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It is also integral to the proper functioning of the adrenal glands and nervous system as well as for normal growth and development throughout the human body.

The dietary sources for pantothenic acid are vast and varied. Brewer’s yeast and wheat germ are good sources, as is royal jelly a substance often touted mostly as a beauty aid but which is also rich in this vitamin. Pantothenic acid can also be found in almost all vegetables, as well as cereals. It is is just about every meat product and pantothenic acid can be found in abundance in liver, kidney, heart, and fish as well as egg yolks.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, pantothenic acid deficiency does occur. Severe pantothenic acid deficiency often occurs in individuals who have general ill health. Symptoms of deficiency may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, headache and numbness or tingling in the limbs and extremities. Pantothenic acid deficiency may also cause cramping of the muscles and a lack of coordination. It can also make a person faint and confused.

Recommended intakes of pantothenic vary, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between 5 to 20 milligrams daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

Vitamins and minerals: what is niacin?

2006-03-20T23:11:00.000-08:00

Learn more about what niacin is, and its essential function in the human body.

Niacin comes in many forms. Some of it’s names are vitamin B3, niacinamide, nicotinic acid, and nicotinyl alcohol tartrate. Niacin plays an essential and vital role in a variety of enzymatic functions in the human body. One of niacin’s most important functions is in the production of energy from the body’s blood sugar. It is also integral to the production of fats in the human body. Niacin is also very important to proper functioning of the nervous system. It also plays a role in the digestive system as well as in having healthy skin. Niacin even plays a role in the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, the sex hormones.

Niacin can be found in a variety of dietary sources. Many meats such as liver, poultry and fish contain niacin. It is also found in almost any lean meat product. However, niacin can also be found in whole grain bread products as well as nuts and dried beans, which are the absolute best source of niacin in foods.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism on so many levels, niacin deficiency does occur. Severe deficiency often occurs in areas where corn is the staple of the diet. Niacin is often used as a treatment for bowel disorders which produce deficiency, and other diseases such as liver disease and alcoholism which produce problems with malabsorption in the intestines. Niacin has also been used successfully in the treatment of high cholesterol, as when it is taken in high doses niacin is known to lower specific fats in the blood.

Recommended intakes of niacin vary, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between 6 to 18 milligrams daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

What is magnesium?

2006-03-20T23:10:00.000-08:00

What is magnesium and its essential function in the human body.

Magnesium comes in many forms. Some of it’s known names are magnesium amino acid chelate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, magnesium oxide dolomite and magnesium sulfate. Bones and teeth contain about 70% of the human body‘s magnesium. Magnesium is essential to the functioning of the human body because it transmits nerve impulses, causes the contraction of muscles and is integral to healthy development of teeth and bones.

Magnesium can be found in a variety of dietary sources. The best dieteray source of magnesium is in the green, leafy vegetables. However, magnesium can also be found in many nuts and whole grain foods as well as soybeans. Many different varieties of seafood are also excellent sources for your intake of magnesium. In many areas, hard drinking water is also a prime source for magnesium.

Even though it is so important to proper functioning of the human organism, magnesium deficiency is not uncommon. Severe magnesium deficiency often occurs in individuals who have overstimulated nervous systems. Individuals with magnesium deficiency will be restless, confused and suffer from palpitations. They may also be highly irritable, easily or chronically depressed and in some cases they will experience tremors and disorientation. It has been suggested that an inadequate dietary intake of magnesium may be a contributing factor to the development of coronary artery disease and can also lead to stones in the kidneys where deposits of calcium result.

Supplements may be useful with certain medically diagnosed conditions which involve impaired absorption from the intestine, or when estrogen containing medications are being taken. Estrogen can reduce blood magnesium levels of magnesium and lead to deficiency if those taking them are not receiving enough magnesium through dietary sources.

Recommended intakes of magnesium vary widely, but the common agreement among professionals seems to be between 50 to 400 milligrams daily. Of course, before starting any form of supplementation you should consult your health care practitioner.

Ideas and recipes: Is your child a picky eater?

2006-03-20T23:08:00.000-08:00

If you have a picky eater in the home, its time to change your child and toddler with these ideas and recipes.

Is your child a picky eater? This doesn't have to be such a bad thing unless they just are not getting enough nutrition to keep them healthy, above all nutrition in the early years makes a foundation for the health of your child in later years. There is such a difference in a child who

doesn't like spinach and broccoli and just refuses to eat those food. You can always subject other vegetables for these. When you have a child who doesn't want to eat any vegetables and wants just for example, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and no vegetables then it is time to change things in your home and you can.

When you start a child eating healthy at the youngest age and try all different foods then they are likely to develop a taste for these foods. Please do not tell your child he should not like spinach because you don't like spinach, then the thought is formed and he thinks well if Mommy doesn't eat spinach then I don't need to either. Try to use recipes that incorporate new foods regularly. Try not to preform these ideas in your children as so many parents are doing, just stop picky eater toddlers.

Naturally you don't want to go through each meal scolding and fussing and worrying about your child and demanding that your child clean his plate, this does not accomplish your goals. First of all limit the high fat and greasy foods your child wants very slowly, and don't forget you'll want to also limit the high sugar foods gradually also. Children especially in this present generation are growing up on fast food and very little nutrition, look around you, this is very true, but you don't have to let your child eat in this manner. Remember you are the parent and this is your child, you are the one forming this child to be a healthy adult.

Try to preplan meals for your family from all the food groups, give them nutritious options even if you start out with small portions and say I want you to try this, you may like it, and sure enough most of the new foods will be accepted and they will like them. Try using complex recipes, and don't just plop some raw spinach down in front of them. Sure there will be new foods that they don't accept, wait and try those foods later or perhaps put in a casserole. You can make many casserole dishes with vegetables and even adults don't notice you have added to the nutrition of the casserole. With time you'll find foods that children who are picky eaters like.

Try to have a certain schedule for eating each meal whenever possible and limit the in between snacks to healthy foods such as fruit. If your child fills up his tummy with potato chips, for instance, or chocolate candy, naturally he is not going to want to eat at mealtime. This is what is happening so much to children of this generation, as they are allowed to go into the pantry and grab a bag of chips or candies and munch whenever they choose to do so and this is not something that should be allowed. You need to be in charge of the pantry and your recipes and when they are allowed to just munch, nibble and choose the foods they want at any given time.

Another idea would be if the child doesn't want, for example, a serving of spinach then let him make a decision on either a piece of toast or a bowl of cereal, don't let him go get chips or make a sandwich of ham and cheese, let the substitute decision be yours, not his and do this only one night a week. With this plan a toddler will look at the food on his plate and know that one night a week you are iving him the decision to choose the cereal or the toast instead of the spinach, he may think well tomorrow night she may prepare something I don't like more than spinach and just eat the spinach and wait for the next meal to have his once a week decision.

On the foods you are trying to get the child to try make the portion very small, even a tablespoon and you can always give him more if he really likes it and he'll think of this as a reward, try that, it works. Toddlers like recipes that intimidate thougths of food.

Above all, think about your child and his nutrition needs and his health, remember a child who has proper nutrition misses less school and you make less trips to the doctor and spend less.

How to make your children eat vegetables

2006-03-20T23:07:00.000-08:00

Information on ways to make children eat vegetables. Using creative ways such as with serving them and putting toppings on them.

As parents we like to make sure that our children are eating well and getting all the nutrients they need. Children need two to three servings of vegetables on a daily basis. But it always isn’t easy for us as parents to get our children to eat vegetables. We should try to get our children to eat them any way we can because vegetables protect against cancer and heart disease. Teaching children to eat vegetables now, when they're young, will help them lead healthy lives when they get older.

A simple way to get children to eat vegetables is eating them ourselves. Following our example, they may start eating vegetables themselves. Don’t say things like that, “If you eat your vegetables, you can have dessert.” These methods work for a little while but can end up back firing, possibly leading them to hate vegetables more. Also change up the meals you prepare. Giving your child new varieties of foods which will help her develop a taste for trying new things.

Sometimes the simple things just don’t work. We have to start becoming a little creative when it comes to making our children eat these vegetables. Insuring they get all the nutrients needed to grow up to be healthy and strong. By doing this in the beginning when they are small, they will hopefully help them learn to love vegetables.

Think of creative ways to make children eat vegetables. For instance, cut up vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, celery and assembling them in a creative way on a plate with dip for an afternoon snack. Or slightly steam carrots, broccoli, celery and olives and call it hors d'oeuvres. Or try using cheese sauce either by dipping the vegetables or by putting the cheese right on top of the cooked or raw vegetables.

There are cooked dishes that already contain vegetables like various kinds of vegetable soups. These could be even more delicious with some melted cheese on top.

You can blend vegetables in a blender and then add them to spaghetti sauce, meatloaf or anywhere else you feel it would liven up a meal. Children end up eating these dishes without even knowing they’re getting their supply of vegetables in it.

If you prefer, you can also add a teaspoon of sugar on top of cooked green beans and peas to give them a little sweeter taste. You could likewise top sweet potatoes, yams and squash with marshmallows. Doing this shouldn’t contribute to a sweet tooth as long as it’s a small amount offered with a healthy food.

There are also a number of vegetarian recipes available that vegetables can hide in, like zucchini pizza.

If you have a child that refuses to eat vegetables hopefully some of these suggestions I’ve listed will help to turn that around. In the end, you’re not just getting them to eat vegetables, you’re helping them to live a healthier lifestyle.

Suggested daily food serving

2006-03-20T23:04:00.000-08:00

Daily food serving and portions of food for the active person. Servings for each food group and their portion size.

The food pyramid commonly referred to by people to determine how much of each food group they need to consume is not actually accurate for everyone. The suggested servings per day are for a typically normal person. But for those of us who are more active, we need more sustinanance. If you frequently (meaning 2 or more times a week) exercise or lift weights, you are not getting enough calories to live on. By eating a well-balanced diet, you will feel more energy and see faster results whether you are trying to lose or gain weight. You should be aiming for 55-60 percent of carbohydrates, 25-30 percent of protein and 15-20 percent of fat at each meal. Eat every couple of hours throughout the day to prevent hunger. Make sure you eat from every food group at most sittings.

1 carbohydrate gram is equal to 4 calories.
1 protein gram is equal to 4 calories.
1 fat gram is equal to 9 calories.

SERVING SIZE FOOD

size of a baseball medium fruit
size of palm 3 oz meat or fish
size of fist 1 cup vegetables
ice cream scoop 1/2 cup cooked pasta
dice or domino 1 1/2 oz cheese
thumb tip 1 tsp butter/marg
large handful 1 cup dry cereal

FOOD GROUP SUGGESTED SERVING

dairy 2-3 for men
2-3 for women
lean meat 3-4 for men
2-3 for women
fruits 4 for men
3 for women
vegetables 5 for men
4 for women
breads 11 for men
9 for women

Diabetic exchange diet

2006-03-16T23:11:00.000-08:00

The American Diabetes Association and Dietetic Association have developed a diet of food exchanges that work well in the treatment for diabetes. Learn more.

The American Diabetes Association and Dietetic Association have developed a system of food exchanges that work well in the treatment for diabetes. You can now find the food pyramid on most products you buy in your local grocery store. Usually found on the side or back panel. These guidelines are not to be substituted for your complete regime. Consult with a registered dietician as your physician instructs you to.

Meats. The exchange groups for meat and cheese are categorized by lean meat (55 cal) and low fat substitutes, medium-fat meat (75 cal) and substitutes, and high fat (100 cal). Exchange sizes on the meat list are generally one ounce and based on cooked meats (three oz of cooked meat equals 4 oz of raw meat) These proteins are found in meats, fish poultry, cheese, eggs, milk, dried beans, legumes and some nuts.

Starches and Bread. Each exchange contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates; 3 grams of protein, and a trace of fat for a total of 80 calories serving size may vary. A general rule is that 1/2 cup of cooked cereal, grain, or pasta equals one exchange and one ounce of a bread product is one serving.

Vegetables. (25 cal) are 1/2 cup cooked, 1 cup raw, and 1/2-cup juice. Each group contains 5 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, and between 2 to 3 grams of fiber. Vegetables can be fresh or frozen, canned low sodium is also acceptable.

Fruit has about 15 grams of carbohydrates for a total of 60 calories. The serving size varies. Example ½ of banana is one exchange, 1 small orange is 1 exchange.Milk is usually one cup or 8 oz. For those who are on weight-loss or low-cholesterol diets, the skim and very low-fat milk lists should be followed (90 cal).

Fats store in the body for extra calories for in the future. A fat exchange is (45 cal) usually varies in serving size. Avoidance of saturated fats and choose polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats instead. Fats are found in margarine, butter, oils, nuts, meat fat, and dairy products.

Free foods. Sugar free soda, black tea and coffee, sugar free gelatin, and I cup of raw lettuce.It is very rarely recommended for anyone that is diabetic unless instructed by a physician to go on a 1200 cal ADA diet.

The following is a list of how many exchanges from each group is needed for the calories listed above.

Cal 1200 1500 1800 2000 2200
Bread 5 8 10 11 13
Meat 4 5 7 8 8
Veg 2 3 3 4 4
Fruits 3 3 3 3 3
Fats 2 3 3 4 5
Milk 2 2 2 2 2

Sample Daily Exchange for 1500 Calorie ADA (Diabetic Diet)Using common sense and the above exchange list you can figure out how many you need for each exchange. Never skip a meal or save up your exchanges for another meal. Example: 1 hamburger is 2 starches, 1 meat, 1 fat, 1 vegetable if with the works. (Based on a 3oz patty)

1500 Calories sample

Break Lunch Dinner Snack
Bread/ 2 2 2 1
Meat 0 2 3 0
Vege 0 1 2 0
Fruits 1 0 1 0
Fats 1 1 2 0
Milk 1 0 0 1

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult your health provider. It should be re-emphasized that nothing herein should be considered medical advice.

What is anorexia nervosa: signs and symptoms?

2006-03-16T23:01:00.000-08:00

What is anorexia nervosa. Here is the definition, and how to detect it in someone you know

Anorexia Nervosa was named and identified in the 1870's almost simultaneously by medical men in England, France and the United States. However, the American public knew virtually nothing about this condition until the 1970's. By the 80's the disease was quite common to the public and was joked about on "Saturday Night Live", featured in prominent newspapers such as "New York Times" and "Weekly World News", and in magazines such as "People", "Mademoiselle", and "Seventeen".

According to the American Anorexia Bulimia Association (AABA), one percent of all teenage American girls develop anorexia nervosa and up to 10% of those who develop it die from it. The National Eating Disorders Organization (NEDO) observes that 90-95% of all victims are female. Because untreated anorexia nervosa is a proven woman-killer, knowing the warning signs is essential to successful recovery.

There are two types of anorexia nervosa: restrictive and binge/purging. According to the Academy for Eating Disorders, restrictors maintain a low body weight through self-starvation and excessive exercise. In addition to calorie cutting, binge/purgers stuff themselves, then induce vomiting or misuse laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. Because of its resemblance to bulimia nervosa, a diagnosis for the latter group can be problematical. If a patient meets criteria for both anorexia and bulimia, she is diagnosed as an anorexic, binge/purging type. According to NEDO, one-third of anorexics develop bulimia.

The Academy for Eating Disorders notes that most clinicians will suspect anorexia in a patient who is 85% or less of normal body weight. But what is "normal"? Norms vary with individual body type and chemistry. For this reason, Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders, Inc. (ANRED) advises against relying on charts, tables or complex formulas. Instead, ANRED recommends a combination of subjective and objective factors. How do you feel? If the answer is "strong, energetic, and healthy," you're probably on the right track. Are your blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels good? Are you free of the back or joint pain associated with bone loss due to malnutrition? If so, these are signs that you have achieved a healthy weight.

Warning signs of anorexia nervosa, include:
Significant to extreme weight loss with no known medical illness
Ritualistic eating habits
Denial
Criticism and Intolerance of others
Excessive Exercise
Eating low- to no-fat, and low-calorie foods
Sufferer says she is fat, even when this is obviously untrue
hair loss
cold hands and feet
fainting
exhaustion
shortness of breath
dry, brittle skin
depression
withdrawal
tooth and gum decay
dressing in baggy clothes
hyper-competitiveness

The anorexic skips meals, refuses to eat with others, and concocts strange dishes. She will grocery shop and cook tasty recipes for the entire family, but refuse to eat her own meals. There is always an excuse not to eat. In a subconscious cry for help, a binge/purger-type anorexic will often leave clues: empty food packages; foul-smelling bathrooms; running water (to cover sounds of vomiting); and overuse of breath fresheners.

Intolerance of others, excessive exercise, and hyper-competitiveness. These, according to ANRED, are related to a desire for perfection. The anorexic wants to be the best in everything.

Denial. The sufferer believes that the thinner she becomes, the closer she gets to perfection - even if she resembles a concentration camp inmate. Thus, from her point of view, there is no problem.

Depression and withdrawal. The Academy for Eating Disorders observes that adolescence is a time when self-esteem is vulnerable. Since onset of anorexia primarily occurs during the teen years, it is not surprising that sufferers have low self-esteem. The anorexic cannot feel good about herself because she's never thin enough to satisfy her standard of perfection.

Baggy clothes. These are used to hide wasting, and to keep warm.

Tooth and gum decay. According to ANRED, anorexics lack buffers in their saliva that protect teeth from acid produced by mouth bacteria. Some sufferers grind their teeth in their sleep.

Over time, these symptoms lead to real damage. In order to protect itself, the body begins to shut down. The following are medical consequences of advanced anorexia.

heart muscle damage resulting in death (This is what happened to Karen Carpenter). According to ANAD, the most common cause of death n late-stage anorexics is low potassium, which can cause an irregular heartbeat.

cessation of menstruation
kidney failure
lanugo, a fine body hair, on arms and face
muscle atrophy
osteoporosis

Anorexia ia a serious condition. And it's not all about being skinny. It's about being in control. The anorectic may feel the only thing in her life she is able to control is her body weight. It's a power struggle. You can not simply tell her to eat.

Overcoming an eating disorder is a long and difficult journey, most people are never truly "healed". They fight the urges for the rest of their lives. You can, however, learn to control it.

If you or someone you know is suffering an eating disorder, please get medical help immediately. The sooner you are treated, the easier recovery will be and you will have less long-term effects.

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers

2006-03-16T18:16:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body’s internal organs. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.

What is the mesothelium?

The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ; the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that is released between these layers, allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against adjacent structures.

The mesothelium has different names, depending on its location in the body. The peritoneum is the mesothelial tissue that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. The pleura is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. The pericardium covers and protects the heart. The mesothelial tissue surrounding the male internal reproductive organs is called the tunica vaginalis testis. The tunica serosa uteri covers the internal reproductive organs in women.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize (spread) from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum.

How common is mesothelioma?

Although reported incidence rates have increased in the past 20 years, mesothelioma is still a relatively rare cancer. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women and risk increases with age, but this disease can appear in either men or women at any age.

What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?

Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.

Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases a person’s risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung.

Who is at increased risk for developing mesothelioma?

Asbestos has been mined and used commercially since the late 1800s. Its use greatly increased during World War II. Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust. Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not known. However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and other tradespeople. Today, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.

The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily exposed develop asbestos-related diseases.

There is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.

These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.

How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient’s medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. A CT scan is a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. In an MRI, a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures are viewed on a monitor and can also be printed.

A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples. If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument called a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.

If the diagnosis is mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. Staging involves more tests in a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.

Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.

How is mesothelioma treated?

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.

Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).

Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).

To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.

Are new treatments for mesothelioma being studied?

Yes. Because mesothelioma is very hard to control, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is sponsoring clinical trials (research studies with people) that are designed to find new treatments and better ways to use current treatments. Before any new treatment can be recommended for general use, doctors conduct clinical trials to find out whether the treatment is safe for patients and effective against the disease. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients with mesothelioma.

People interested in taking part in a clinical trial should talk with their doctor. Information about clinical trials is available from the Cancer Information Service (CIS) (see below) at 1–800–4–CANCER. Information specialists at the CIS use PDQ®, NCI’s cancer information database, to identify and provide detailed information about specific ongoing clinical trials. Patients also have the option of searching for clinical trials on their own. The clinical trials page on the NCI’s Cancer.gov Web site, located at http://www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials on the Internet, provides general information about clinical trials and links to PDQ.

People considering clinical trials may be interested in the NCI booklet Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What Cancer Patients Need To Know. This booklet describes how research studies are carried out and explains their possible benefits and risks. The booklet is available by calling the CIS, or from the NCI Publications Locator Web site at http://www.cancer.gov/publications on the Internet.

Importance of a low salt diet

2006-03-15T18:13:00.000-08:00

Learn the importance of a low salt diet. Heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity - all have been associated with salt and high sodium content of food.

Salt - is it a good substance or a bad one? Approximately 40% sodium by weight, salt is a combination of sodium and chloride. The truth is our bodies need sodium to help us regulate blood pressure and blood volume. Sodium also assists in keeping our muscles and nerves in top-top shape. But as in all things, moderation is the ultimate key.

Salt is linked high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attacks as too much sodium thickens the blood. The link to obesity is a result of sodium's ability to retain water which weighs heavy. Water rentention may be mistakenly thought of as fat as it will accumulate in the ankles and mid section.

Health literature can be confusing with its talk of grams and milligrams. Medical practitioners agree that no more than 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt per day should be used, about 2400 milligrams. Count each 1/4 teaspoon as 500 milligrams for an easy way of figuring sodium intake.

Drugs can contain large amounts of sodium. This is especially true of over the counter preparations. Some drug companies are now manufacturing low-sodium drugs due to consumer demand and must declare their sodium content on product labels.

Sodium content happens in food one of two ways: natural sodium occurring in food and salt that has been added to the food. In the days of the European explorers such as Christopher Columbus, food was heavily salted and spiced to preserve it to make the long voyage across the sea. Today, although it's no longer necessary to preserve foods in this manner, frozen and canned food companies still salt with a heavy hand.

While it is good to use spices instead of adding table salt to your food, check the spice labels as sodium appears naturally to some degree in small amounts in various spices. Read container labels and look for words such as 'soda' and 'sodium'. Search the labels for this symbol - Na. These are all indicators of salt's presence.

When dining in restaurants, be verbal about not wanting salt added to your food. Ask questions about how the food is prepared. It's your health and you need to protect it.

Reducing salt in your diet is a great idea. You will still take in all the sodium your body needs through food. Reduce the amount of added sodium by following these simple to follow rules:

1 - Use herbs and spices to flavor foods.

2 - Don't add salt to your food. Learn to enjoy the natural tastes of meals.

3 - Choose fresh vegetables over canned as much as possible.

4 - If you're using canned or frozen vegetables, rinse them well before cooking.

5 - Look for unsalted nuts, lentils, peas, beans and seeds.

6 - Choose low-sodium, low-fat cheese and milk.

7 - Don't cook vegetables in the same water that came in the can.

Food can be delicious without tremendous amounts of salt. Just to make sure you're not tempted, empty out the salt shaker and retire it to a far away cupboard.

How nutrition changes with age

2006-03-15T18:11:00.000-08:00

The effects that age and nutrition has on the body. It contains helpful information on how to get your body prepared for the changes as you grow older.

Always check with your doctor before taking any additional supplements.

If you remember, when you were a child, your parents saying, eat this or eat that because it is good for you and it will help you grow up to be strong. Well, they were right, your diet when you are young has a lot to do with your health as an adult. Many of the degenerative changes that happen as we get older can be eliminated or at least delayed by a proper diet when we are in our youth.

As a person gets older especially into the elderly years their appetite declines with age, so when you are older you do not get the proper nutrition that is needed to subdue infections and ward off diseases. In most cases an unhealthy diet is the cause of the infections and or disease when you become older. A person that has eaten fatty foods all their life are at extremely high risks of heart disease, heart failure such as strokes and heart attacks. A person that has consumed a high amount of alcohol through their life is at high risk of liver, pancreas, and kidney malfunctions, not to mention cancer.

It is best to begin in your youth by eating healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits and of course meats. There have been studies about the Mormons who stay on a vegetable and meat menu and avoid indulgence in harmful drinks and smoking, they are known to live a longer life, but a healthier longer life.

As the body ages it does not need as much as it does when it is younger. The body’s metabolism slows down and the body does not need as many calories to function. But there are certain vitamins and minerals that an older body needs that the younger body can use less of. The minerals and vitamins such as Calcium, an older body needs more to prevent osteoporosis and to keep the bones healthy, vitamin D is needed to help absorb the calcium. Zinc is needed to combat against infections, because with age the body’s immune system also degenerates. Fiber is important because the stomach muscles weaken with age and fiber helps prevent constipation.

The older the person gets the more the diet needs to change to provide for the body’s needs. There are basic guidelines for the nutrition of an elderly person. An older person should try to eat at least six servings of starches per day, such as whole grains; bread, dried beans; potatoes and pasta are all good sources. The body also needs at least six servings of fruits and vegetables, such as fresh fruits, broccoli, cabbage, and berries all are good sources of vitamin C and A, these are needed to promote the immune system to avoid deadly infections. High protein foods should be eating at least at two servings; lean beef, chicken and eggs are suggested. Dairy products are definitely needed to help the bones retain their stability.

Also, remember exercise is important part of staying healthy. If you suffer from appetite loss, the exercise is good for stimulating the appetite also.

Aging and nutrition

2006-03-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Aging and nutrition: When you get older your body needs change. The body's need for energy decreases while the need for nutrients increase. Studies show that some diets can actually slow the aging process.

Aging is inevitable, but many of the degenerative changes in the body are not. You must take the proper steps to prevent this, but it is possible.

Medical research shows that proper nutrition can slow down or even prevent many dibilitating conditions. Some examples would be: heart disease, osteoperosis, and diabetis.

Did you know that almost one half of the health problems in the elderly are related to diet? It is a proven fact that people whose diet is rich in vegetables live longer and are healthier.

Our elderly are amoung the most poorly nurished of all Americans. The reason for this is really quite simple. As you age you sense of smell and taste decreases. When this happens food does not look as good to you as it did when you were younger. Also, there are more health problems that make food less appealing. It is harder to chew, you get constipated, there are more digestive problems, and you just plain old don't feel hungry.

Then there is the fact that family has changed. You are no longer feeding all the children; you may have lost your spouse. Financial needs have also changed and most often you are on a fixed income. It may be more difficult for you to get out and shop. All of these are factors in the change of diets in the elderly.

Your body composition changes with age. Your muscle mass decreases because you are not using them the way that you once did. Your metabolism slows down and you need to consume far less calories. (It is estimated that you should drop your calorie intake by at least 10% after the age of fifty. At the age of seventy your need decreases again.) If you fail to cut back, it is most likely that you will gain weight and be at risk for several of the diseases that we mention earlier.

As you get older, the body is not as good at absorbing or using up some of the nutrients that it consumes. Some of those that may need to be increased or replenished as you get older are:

Calcium: This is what gives us healthy bones. An elderly person may need to find a way to supliment to prevent such things as osteoperosis. This is expecially true of woman.

Vitamin D: The body needs this to help it absorb the calcium.

Vitamin B-12: This helps to build red blood cells. Many elderly need to get weekly shots so that they can maintain healthy nerves.

Vitamin E: This is important to help ward off heart disease.

Zinc: This helps the bodies ammune sysem which can be affected by aging as well.

Potassium: This is important to help with high blood pressure and can be depleated by some of the medications used to treat it.

Sometimes it is just a matter of a daily vitamin to help you replenish what you are lacking. Sometimes it may be more. This you need to discuss with your doctor as you make plans for a healthier diet.

These are just a few tips to help a person as they get older to plan for a better diet and a healthier life:

Plan regular meals for the day and try to avoid so much snacking. If it is a must to snack try things like fruits and vegitables instead.

Make meal time something to look forward too. Even if you are eating alone you can make it fun. You may want to set your table up. Put on some candles. Pull out your favorite cloth napkins. Treat yourself to some music. The possibilities are endless.

If you have trouble chewing--switch to things like fish or ground meats. Soups can be wonderful and much better for you than just something to drink.

Don't like to eat alone. Try round-robins or pot lucks. You will not have to cook as often and you will have the pleasure of someone elses company.

Add some color to your plate. Dress it up. Add some greens, sprinkle some of your favorite spices. Give your plate some personality.

These are just a few ideas on how you can take steps to maintain your health as you begin to age. Getting older happens/feeling older does not have too.

Health benefits of apple cider vinegar

2006-03-15T18:07:00.000-08:00

Health benefits of apple cider vinegar for people and their pets. It is antibacterial and anti-fungal and gives the immune system a good boost.

Apple Cider Vinegar is cheap, easy to use and it really benefits our health in numerous ways. Hippocrates, the father of medicine thought of it as a powerful elixir and a naturally occurring antibiotic and antiseptic that fights germs. Ancient Egyptians, Roman’s and Greeks used it. And Apple Cider Vinegar is mentioned in the Bible as an antiseptic and healing agent. Even Columbus had barrels of vinegar on his ships for the prevention of scurvy. Indeed, Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for thousands of years, as both a health and cleansing agent.

Apple Cider Vinegar can benefit both people and their pets. It is antibacterial and anti-fungal and gives the immune system a good boost. As a high potassium electrolyte balancer, it remineralizes the body and helps normalize the blood’s alkaline acid balance.

Apple Cider Vinegar is proving most beneficial to people or animals with arthritis because it breaks down calcium deposits in the joints while remineralizing the bones. It has proven to be equally beneficial to dogs with hip dysplasia.

Apple Cider Vinegar is a good remedy for food poisoning and helpful in digestive upsets. It is also effective for urinary tract infections and it lowers high blood pressure. In animals, it is helpful in skin and coat problems. For those on diuretics, it is helpful in replacing potassium depletion. Use one teaspoonful in the dog or cat’s drinking water daily as a healthy tonic. Two teaspoonfuls in a pint of water, for yourself.

For centuries, people have recognized cider vinegar’s health benefits to fight infection, promote digestion, and even in fighting osteoporosis. So when you eat that salad with the cider vinegar and oil dressing, you’re reaping large health benefits as well as good taste!

What is a low fat diet plan?

2006-03-15T18:05:00.000-08:00

So you've decided to try to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Congratulations! One way you can do that is by lowering the fat in your diet.

The typical American should consume less than 30% of their total calories from fat. Less than 10% should be saturated fat. Saturated fat comes from primarily animal sources. Check the labels when buying food and check for the percentage of fat and saturated fat. One rule of thumb is to make sure each food item you purchase has less than 30% fat and less than 10% saturated fat.

What are the benefits of eating a low-fat diet? People who consume diets low in fat, consume less calories. Therefore, their risk of weight gain also decreases. Also your risk of cancer and heart disease also decreases. Low saturated fat intake equals lower cholesterol level.

What can you do to lower the amount of fat in your diet? You can do many things. Here is a list of suggestions:

* When cooking ground beef for meat loaf, etc. Rinse off the meat and remove the grease from the pan then proceed with cooking. The rinses off the excess fat without affecting the taste.

* Buy lean or extra lean meats and poultry without skin. These products have at least 33% less fat than normal.

* Eat more grains. Be eating more grains you automatically decrease the amount of fat in your diet.

* Check food labels. As stated previously, check the labels for the amount and type of fat in it.

* If you choose to eat something high in fat, balance it with something low in fat. Add vegetables instead of French fries with you hamburger.

* Eat more beans. They are a good source of protein and fiber. This can fill you up without the excess fat.

Fat is not a terrible thing. We just tend to overconsume it in this country. Just like everything else, moderation is key. Too much of a good thing can be bad for you.

Chocolate's health benefits

2006-03-15T18:03:00.000-08:00

Is chocolate really that bad for you or can it play a part in a healthy lifestyle?

In 1519 Spanish Conquistadore Hernando Cortes led an expedition into the depths of Mexico to capture gold and silver treasures from the Aztec people. The Emperor Montezuma, along with his subjects, welcomed these strange looking visitors as ‘white Gods, risen from the sea.’ The Spaniards were feasted and served a cold, bitter drink that was very popular among the Aztecs. The drink was called cacahuati.

From the Aztecs the Spaniards learned that the drink has mystical connections, it being the product of the juice of the seeds of the cacao tree. Montezuma himself held that the drink not only gave him strength and energy, but also gave an impetus to his sexual prowess. To the Spaniards, however, the drink was too bitter. By adding sugar, however, it was made more pleasant to the European palatte. In fact, Cortes decided to introduce this new find into the Spanish Court. He called it chocolatl and in Spain it became an immediate success. Among the elite it became a delicacy, served piping hot. Soon Spanish ships were bringing regular supplies of cacao beans to satisfy this demand. Before long the drink spread across Europe. In England, they changed the name to the easier to pronounce chocolate. Methods of manufacture were refined over the years and before long the chocolate drink was just the first in a long line of cacao seed based products – chocolate bars, milk chocolate, chocolate with nuts in it, chocolate with cherries, chocolate with caramel.

Today chocolate is all around us. We all love it. Many of us, however, feel a little guilty about eating it. So, what’s the truth. Is chocolate really bad for you?

Does chocolate cause acne? In a recent study out of the University of Pennsylvania, 65 acne sufferers began to consume large amounts of chocolate. 46 showed no change in their condition, 10 got better and 9 got worse. This would sem to indicate that chocolate does not affect acne.

Does chocolate cause migraines? Unfortunately, the research does show that large amounts of chocolate can cause migraines as well as upset stomachs and hives. These types of reactions are, however, relatively minor.

Chocolate does not cause high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Since it is a product of plants, chocolate contains no cholesterol. A chocolate bar does however contain a lot of calories – a bar of one and a half ounces has a whopping 220 calories. Chocolate is, however, a powerful fighter of fatigue and it does give the consumer strength and energy.

Chocolate, then, has both positive and negative aspects to it. You’ll have to weigh the balances for yourself as you decide whether or not to indulge.

Health and longevity

2006-03-15T18:00:00.000-08:00

Learn some secrets about health and longevity! No, there is no fountain of youth, but there are things that we can eat and drink to help us look and feel younger.

No, there is no fountain of youth, but there are foods that we can eat and drink to help us look and feel younger. Anti-wrinkle creams are helpful because they do contain ingredients to replenish the skin with moisture after aiding in removing dead skin cells. Getting plenty of sleep is also vital to good health and a more youthful appearance. Exercise and lower stress levels are yet other ways to renew our youthful appearance.

But why not work on giving your skin a more youthful look from the inside out? By eating and drinking the right foods, we can turn back the hands of time and you will look and feel years younger. It won't happen overnight, but it will happen. And it will happen naturally. Below is a list of foods containing high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants are the key. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which are toxins to our bodies. There are free radicals in cigarettes and pollution, for example.

Foods of longevity:

-nuts
-peaches
-potatoes
-spinach
-cauliflower
-stringbeans
-carrots
-apples
-mushrooms
-celery
-lettuce
-bananas
-cucumbers
-broccoli
-watermelon
-grapefruit
-oranges
-sweet potatoes
-onions
-cooked corn
-squash
-grapes
-stawberries
-beets
-prunes
-blueberries
-grapes

Eat the fruits fresh, eat the vegetables fresh or steamed is best. A little crispness should be left to the vegetable so not to destroy the nutrient content.

Drinks of longevity include:

-Water first and fomemost. Filtered water flushes the body of toxins, and it also hydrates the body's cells, including the skin. You should have at least 8 or more glasses of water per day.

-grape juice - very high in antioxidant level
-orange juice
-prune juice
-grapefruit juice
-any juices of the above listed fruits and vegetables, in which juices are usually made.

A very "cool" way to enjoy these fruit juices are as slushes or smoothies (where the fruit juice is mixed with ice and nonfat vanilla yogurt.)

*NOTE: You should at least 6 servings of antioxidants per day.

A few more hints for a youthful appearance is to have plenty of roughage in your diet, such as whole grains and green salads, get some fresh air, think holistic health, exercise your mind and relax as well, and take a multivitamin daily. Check with your pharmacist or doctor to find the one that is right for you.

Learn about the vitamin and mineral nutrition nutrients in food health

2006-03-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

It is not always easy to eat right. Sometimes we don't eat a well balanced meal because we don't know what foods we need to eat.

It is not always easy to eat right. Sometimes we don't eat a well balanced meal because we don't know what foods we need to eat. Here is a breakdown of vitamins and nutrients, their functions and food sources.

Vitamin A- antioxidant, good for the eyes and skin

Food source-green and yellow vegetables, apricots, asparagus, broccoli, canteloupe, peaches

Vitamin B1-good for circulation, metabolism and brian function

Food source-brown rice, egg yolks, fish, peanuts,raisins, whole grains.

Vitamin B2-promotes red blood cell formation, increases oxyegen to tissues

Food source-cheese, eggs, fish, meat, poultry, spinach and yogurt.

Vitamin B6- metabolism, benefits nervous system and immune function

Food source-protein foods, bananas, avacados

Vitamin B12-prevents anemia, aids in digestion

Food Source- seafood, dairy products

Folic acid-strengthens immunity, boosts energy

Food source-brown rice, protien foods, green leafy vegetables

Vitamin C- antioxidant, healthy gums

Food source-citrus fruits, berries, green leafy vegetables

Vitamin D-healthy teeth,aids in wound healing

Food source-Fish and dairy

Vitamin E-Antioxidant, prevents cardiovascular disease and cancer, improves circulation, promotes healthy skin and hair.

Food source-whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables

Vitamin K-essential for blood clotting, strong bones

Food source-cabbage, brussel sprouts, liver, broccoli, asparagus

Drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses per day. Help keep yourself as healty as can be.

Diabetes diet

2006-03-15T17:55:00.000-08:00

Overview of how diet can affect a diabetic's health.

Meal planning includes choosing healthy foods, eating the right amount of food, and eating meals at the right time. The American Diabetes Association and the American Dietetic Association developed 6 food exchange lists for the purpose of meal planning for people with diabetes. The 6 lists are: starch or bread, meat and substitutes, vegetables, fruits, milk or dairy, and fat. Every food on the list has approximately the same amount of carbohydrate, fat, protein, and calories for the amount given.

Any food on the list can be exchanged for any other food on the same list. The food exchange lists also show the number of food choices that can be eaten at each meal and snack. Using the foods on the exchange list (along with a personal meal plan designed by a registered dietitian or nutritional counselor) will control the distribution of calories throughout the day so that food and insulin will be balanced.

Meal plans differ depending on the type of diabetes. With insulin-dependent diabetes (Type I), consistency in the time meals are eaten and the amounts and types of food eaten is very important to allow food and insulin to work together to regulate blood-glucose levels. If meals and insulin are out of balance, extreme variations in blood glucose can occur. In noninsulin-dependent diabetes, weight control is the most important principle in addition to a well-balanced diet.

Consultation with a registered dietitian or nutrition counselor is an invaluable tool for planning meals and controlling diet for persons with diabetes.

Natural ways to prevent cancer

2006-03-01T23:57:00.000-08:00

Learn the natural ways to prevent cancer with vitamins, minerals, and supplements which researchers have deemed anti-cancer causing agents.

The American Cancer Society has estimated that nearly 552,000 Americans will die of cancer this year. More than 1,500 people die each day of the disease. Cancers of the stomach, liver, lungs, breast, prostate, skin, pancreas and others account for one out of every four deaths, ranking the disease as the second leading killer in this country. It is not hard to understand why, for most Americans, cancer is one of the most feared diseases. Nearly everyone knows someone who has had or has cancer.

The good news is that medical research has also shown that 80 percent of the causes of cancer have been identified and are preventable. Some of these factors include smoking, drinking, exercise, and diet. Research has also identified certain vitamins, herbs, and supplements that act to inhibit cancer. This research has propelled people seeking to prevent cancer, and to prevent the spread of cancer, to turn towards alternative medicine to ward off cancer.

Cancer begins as a single abnormal cell that begins to multiply out of control. Groups of cells from tumors invade healthy tissue. If undtected, the cells multiply and spread to other areas of the body. The agents that cause cancer are called carcinogens, because they promote the growth of cancerous cells. Cancer is caused by external carcinogens, like chemicals, radiation, and viruses, as well as internal factors, like hormones, immune conditions, and inherited mutations.

Studies have also indicated that eating fatty foods, drinking alcohol and smoking regularly increases the likelihood of cancer. The evidence compiled so far suggests that about one-third of the 500,000 cancer deaths that occur in this country each year is due to dietary factors. Another third is due to cigarette smoking.

Fatty foods, alchohol and smoking act as promoters, helping abnormal cells to grow more quickly. Fatty foods are increasingly linked to increasing the risk of breast and colon cancer. Excessive alcohol has also been linked to increasing the risk for breast, mouth, pharynx, and esophagus cancer. If one is a smoker, the risks are multilplied.

Because the symptoms of cancer often mirror other illnesses, the symptoms of cancer may go undetected for a long time. Internal cancers, like colon cancer, are also difficult to detect early because symptoms often don't begin to surface until the cancer has progressed, and often spread.

Because of this, the American Cancer Society has established recommendations to detect cancer early. Early detection examinations can help save lives and reduce suffering from most forms of cancer. Some of these cancers can be detected by self-examinations [breast examinations], physical examinations by a health professionals [skin cancer], or by x-rays and blood tests.

Symptoms of cancer will manifest in the organ of the body effected by the growth, and can result in pain and discomfort, or physical abnormality, as is the case with breast and skin cancer.

The most conventional methods for treating cancer are chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.

Surgery is the oldest form of treatment for cancer. About 60 percent of people with cancer have had some type of operation.

Chemotherapy is the use of medicines and drugs to treat cancer. Systematic chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs that are usually given into a vein or mouth. These drugs enter the bloodstream and reach all the areas of the body.

Radiation therapy is one of the oldest, cost effective cancer therapies. From the time of the discovery of x-rays by William Roentgen and radioactivity by Marie and Pierre Curie, about a century ago, there have been efforts to use radiation to treat cancers. Advances in technology and a better understanding of how radiation works in the body have made radiation therapy a significant part of cancer treatment. It is estimated that 50-60% of all people with cancer will receive radiation at some point during their cancer treatment.

Research has also identified vitamins, minerals, herbs, and vitamins that will act to prevent, or prevent the spread of cancer.

The growing trend of alternative medicine in fighting cancer has been well-documented by medical doctors. What they have found is that some vitamins, minerals, herbs and supplements actually work as inhibitors, preventing abnormal cells from growing. Unlike surgery and chemotherapy, these natural remedies have no deleterious side effects.

Carotenoids, the pigment that give fruits and vegetables its dark green and yellow color, has been shown to prevent cancer. Beta-Carotene, present in yellow and green vegetables, helps protect against lung cancer and my help prevent cancers of the bladder, mouth, larynx, esophagus, breast and others.

Vitamin C may also lower the risks for cancers of the esophagus and stomach. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing cancer-causing chemicals that form in the body. It also blocks the conversion of nitrates to cancer-causing nitrosamines in the stomach.

Vitamin E is also touted as an anti-oxidant that prevents cells from damage by free radicals and fights off cancer.

Selenium has been found to have the same antioxidant effects as Vitamin C and Beta-Carotene. Vitamin B has also been found to have this effect.

While the final verdict is not back, Ginseng has been found in many studies to inhibit the formation of tumors. This research has been very successful in animals, but conclusive human studies have not yet yielded concrete results.

Preliminary studies have also revealed that Cat's Claw has tumor inhibiting and immune-stimulating properties.

Garlic is toxic to some tumor cells. The pungent flavor from garlic detoxifies potential carcinogens. Garlic extract has slowed the growth of breast, skin, and colon cancers in mice.

Vitamin D has also been shown to be a viable option for the prevention of skin cancer.

Angiogenesis-Regulating Protein Controls Tumor Growth

2006-03-01T23:52:00.000-08:00

Human beings can live -- and most apparently do -- with microscopic cancers in their bodies. It's when these cancers grow and spread that they wreak havoc.
A solid tumor cannot grow beyond the size of a pinhead unless it has an independent blood supply to deliver the oxygen and nutrients it needs to grow and advance. In order to grow and invade, a tumor develops its own blood supply through the process called angiogenesis.

Researchers have long theorized that angiogenesis-inhibiting drugs could interrupt that process, cutting off the blood supply to the tumor and, ideally, killing it.

Now a genetic analysis of a protein believed to affect the formation of blood vessels has proved that Thrombospondin-1 in fact regulates a tumor's ability to form the independent blood supply that cancers need to grow and thrive, UCLA researchers report.

This is the first time the mechanism of Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) regulation has been demonstrated genetically in laboratory animals with cancer, said molecular biologist Luisa Iruela-Arispe, a researcher at UCLA's Jonsson Cancer Center and an assistant professor in the UCLA Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology.

Iruela-Arispe's research is outlined today in the early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The article can be found at this URL.

The UCLA discovery, the result of five years of laboratory experimentation and genetic analysis, could lead to new treatments targeted to fight malignancies, Iruela-Arispe said.

Already several angiogenesis inhibitors tested in clinical trials have been shown to suppress tumor growth, but their mechanism of action is often unclear.

In the case of TSP1, recognized more than a decade ago as the first naturally occurring protein to act as an angiogenesis inhibitor, Iruela-Arispe and her team of researchers set out to discover the mechanism used to regulate angiogenesis.

"As human beings, we have many internal controls in place to prevent tumors from growing and expanding. These are our gatekeepers," Iruela-Arispe said. "We all have cancers that occur within us, but the body throws up a lot of obstacles to keep the cancers from growing. TSP1 is likely to be one of those obstacles, and we were able to prove that it does regulate angiogenesis and tumor growth through a novel mechanism."

To uncover the mechanism, Iruela-Arispe and her team studied a strain of laboratory mice with breast cancer that overexpressed TSP1. These mice developed much smaller tumors that took longer to grow than a strain of mice that expressed no TSP1 at all.

Of the mice that overexpressed TSP1, 20 percent appeared to be protected from cancer -- although they carried the genetic mutation for the disease, the mice did not develop any tumors at all, Iruela-Arispe said.

The strain of mice with no TSP1, on the other hand, developed very large tumors very quickly. Iruela-Arispe said 100 percent of these mice developed breast cancer.

Additionally, the blood supply created by the tumors in the mice with no TSP1 was better developed and more efficient than the blood supply in the mice that overexpressed TSP1.

The capillaries in the mice lacking TSP1 were larger in diameter and more frequent in number, Iruela-Arispe said.

Iruela-Arispe's research shows that TSP1 regulates the activation of a molecule called MMP9, which in previous research has been shown to promote angiogenesis and allow tumors to spread more easily to other organs.

Iruela-Arispe's data indicates that TSP1 could be suppressing the activation of MMP9, providing protection from tumor growth.

This discovery could be used to develop drugs that mimic TSP1, perhaps preventing tumors from developing independent blood supplies. In effect, the drugs would starve the tumors of nutrients and oxygen, leading to their death.

"We know a lot about what promotes angiogenesis," Iruela-Arispe said. "Unfortunately, we know very little about what regulates it."

Iruela-Arispe has been studying TSP1 for nearly a dozen years. Her scientific team will continue to study the protein, "to build on this discovery and see if we can learn more about it and how it may help protect us from developing cancer," she said.

Vitamin C and Cancer

2006-03-01T23:40:00.000-08:00

Revisiting Vitamin C and Cancer

George Williams was 70 years old in 1986. That was the year he learned he had kidney cancer. The cancer had spread to his liver and the lymph nodes in his chest. His oncologist told him he could give him chemotherapy and radiation but it wouldn't likely help. The doctor suggested George get his affairs in order.

George had heard about the work of Linus Pauling and some Scottish doctors on the effects of megadoses of vitamin C on cancer. He then visited the only doctor in Wichita, Kansas who treated people with megadoses of vitamins, my father, Hugh Riordan, M.D. My father told George that he would give him injections of vitamin C but didn't know if it would help. George received 30 grams (30,000 milligrams) of vitamin C twice a week for six weeks. X-rays six weeks later showed a marked decrease in the size of the tumors. George continued the injections. Six months later there was no evidence of cancer. Mr. Williams lived a relatively healthy life for another 14 years and died a few years ago of congestive heart failure at the age of 84.

In the Fall of 1994, a 73 year-old farmer from Western Kansas was diagnosed with wide-spread non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Biopsies and CT-scans showed he had cancer in all the lymph nodes from his chest up. He was treated with chemotherapy for 8 months resulting in a remission. In July, 1997 he began losing weight (30 lbs). He returned to his oncologist and a CT-scan at that time showed recurrence. He was placed on chemotherapy in September, 1997. In December, 1997 with no change in the cancer, his immune system was so depressed he developed a case of Shingles and the chemotherapy was stopped. I first saw this gentleman in March, 1998. He was given vitamin C injections 50 grams (50,000 millligrams) two times per week. Three months after beginning vitamin C therapy a CT-scan showed no evidence of cancer. Another CT-scan in February, 1999 was also clear and he was declared to be in complete remission by his oncologist.

Given the results seen clinically as described in the cases above, my father and I went on to perform research on the effects of vitamin C on the immune system and tumor cells. The two major conclusions coming from our research were 1) people with cancer require much more vitamin C than healthy people; and 2) vitamin C in high doses (given through the vein) can act similar to chemotherapy without the side effects. Our latest article was published in the British Journal of Cancer.

It's a good thing that neither my father nor George listened to the negative reports on vitamin C and cancer that came out of the Mayo Clinic several years before he began treatment. Those two clinical tests in Minnesota found the vitamin did not alter the course of disease and the notion was abandoned-it was essentially rejected as a cancer treatment at that time.

Two recent articles in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggest the Mayo research was flawed and the scientists were biased against the use of "alternative" cancer treatments.

The author of one of the articles, Dr. John Hoffer a professor of medicine at McGill University, says "In 1971, even saying that vitamin C could be useful was so outlandish that a conversation would stop between scientists and physicians."

"What's changed now is ... a commitment on the part of agencies to study alternative cancer therapies."

Dr. Hoffer said his own speculation is the Mayo researchers "wanted a quick and decisive way to disprove the treatment."

In May of 1999, vitamin C researchers, including my father and I attended a closed-door research workshop in Montreal. There we began re-examining the methods used to test high-dose vitamin C against cancer. Dr. Hoffer attended the meeting, as did Dr. Mark Levine, a molecular scientist at the National Institutes of Health. One of the conclusions of the workshop was that the Mayo Clinic treatments were too short, and the vitamin C was given by mouth, not by injection. If given by mouth the vitamin is not as well absorbed and blood levels do not reach a concentration high enough to disable tumor cells.

Dr. Levine in the other Canadian Journal article wrote, "We should rigorously explore the anti-cancer effects of vitamin C, when administered intravenously at high doses, in patients with well-documented cancer."

We routinely give large doses of vitamin C to people with cancer at the ITL Clinic. In addition to its anti-tumor effects vitamin C has side "benefits," as opposed to adverse side effects seen with other cancer treatments. The side benefits include an increased sense of well-being, decreased pain, enhanced immune system and stronger collagen-the glue that prevents cancer cells from spreading.

Many people who come to our clinic are taking chemotherapy and/or radiation. We find that people tolerate these standard treatments much better when they also get high dose vitamin C. One patient comes to mind, Richard, a 54 year old businessman was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer 5 years ago. He was put on chemotherapy and at the same time I started him on vitamin C infusions 2-3 times per week. He sailed through the chemotherapy without any symptoms. After 11 months of treatment he went on a two-week trip to Florida. He was able to get his chemotherapy from a doctor there, but not the vitamin C. By the end of the trip he was getting typical side effects from the chemotherapy-most prominently mouth and throat ulcers. One week after getting back on the vitamin C his ulcers healed. Richard remains alive and well today.

Occasionally people who take vitamin C experience miraculous results, however it is not a cancer cure. As part of a comprehensive cancer treatment program vitamin C is a powerful tool to help people have stronger immune systems, an increased quality of life, and increased chances of surviving their disease.

Cachexia Vaccine

2006-03-01T22:26:00.000-08:00

Cachexia is a wasting syndrome that can be seen in 20-50% of people with advanced cancer. This wasting syndrome results in rapid weight loss-especially from muscle. The syndrome is caused by immune hormones and a recently-identified molecule that can be found in the urine of cancer patients with cachexia, but not in healthy people or cancer patients without cachexia.

Scientists at ITL have developed a vaccine that targets the cachexia molecule found in the urine of cancer patients. The vaccine is experimental at this stage. Your doctor at ITL will determine whether or not you are a candidate to receive the vaccine.

It is hoped that research of this vaccine will lead to an effective treatment for cachexia syndrome.

In addition to the vaccine, your doctor may prescribe fish oil and an amino acid, L-glutamine, both of which have been shown to help with reversing cachexia syndrome.

Cachexia Definition: (ka-KEK-see-uh) The loss of body weight and muscle mass frequently seen in patients with advanced diseases.

The symptoms of cachexia are the most common symptoms experienced by patients with advanced cancer. They are more common than symptoms such as pain, nausea, and shortness of breath. Many cancer patients identify cachexia symptoms as most troubling to them.

Some types of cancer cause cachexia more often than others.
Cancers that most commonly cause cachexia: gastric, pancreatic
Cancers that often cause cachexia: lung, colon
Cancers that rarely cause cachexia: breast, leukemia, prostate.
Cachexia is estimated to be a major contributing cause of death in between 20-50% of cancer patients. Because many clinical trials and treatment regimens have entrance criteria that include degree of weight loss and functional capacity, patients with cachexia may not qualify for anti-cancer treatments that could be of benefit to them. Furthermore, patients with cachexia are less likely to have a positive response to anti-cancer-treatments, and are more likely to experience adverse effects from such treatments. In these ways, cachexia contributes both directly and indirectly to death from advanced cancer.

Even with adequate nutrition, a patient with cachexia will still lose weight because their body is not able to utilize the nutrients from food properly. Furthermore, the normal body adaptation to starvation (decreased basal metabolic rate and preferential use of fats as an energy source) does not occur in cachexia.

For most cancer patients the total tumor burden is only a small percentage of their total body mass, and the degree of cachexia does not correlate with tumor size. The metabolic rate of tumor tissue has been studied, and is the same as normal body tissues. cachexia also exists in other diseases in which there is no tumor, such as heart failure and AIDS.

Cachexia is thought to be caused by chemical messengers, also called immune cytokines, which are produced by the tumor itself, and by the body's immune system in response to the tumor.

Immuno-Augmentive Therapy

2006-03-01T22:19:00.000-08:00

The clinic only accepts for treatment only patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. Patients are accepted only after the doctors have reviewed the medical records and determined the patient is a good candidate for IAT therapy.

IAT TREATMENT OBJECTIVES

The objective of IAT is to restore the cancer patient's immune competency to a level by which it can control cancer. The body's own complex tumor fighting system may well be the first, the best, and the last line of defense against cancers.

Other than surgical intervention for local tumors, there is generally no cure for most cancers. Restoring the immune system to enable it to destroy cancer cells, therefore, becomes the prime objective in IAT.

IAT TREATMENT OUTCOMES

IAT is not represented as a cure for cancer, but rather a means of restoring the system's natural balance. The restoration of the natural immune system allows the patient's own body to treat itself. The resulting changes can significantly extend the lives of people with cancer, as borne out by clinic records maintained since 1977.

Many times success for patients with advanced metastatic disease is measured by life extension and enhanced quality of life that is many times experienced while undergoing non-toxic IAT provides.

PATIENT PROTOCOL AT THE CENTRE

Typically, patients presenting at the Centre demonstrate an imbalance of immune components believed essential to the control of cancer. The protocol established for IAT is designed to modulate critical immune factors. By objectively measuring therapeutic progress, the immunologic attack on cancer tumors can be directed.

IAT is therefore a two-step procedure:

(1) Evaluation-measuring deficiencies of the immune systems, and

(2) Therapy-replenishing deficient factors by self-injection of sera.

IMMUNOLOGICAL EVALUATION

The immune system of each cancer patient receiving IAT is evaluated once or twice daily, five days a week. Blood tests measure relevant immune components. These data reveal the relative activity of the tumor kill process and immune response

IAT is individualized to the patient. Based on serial individual blood tests, a computer program calculates the amount of therapeutic sera required for each patient to optimize immunologic response to tumors.

Cytokines Cancer Vaccine Treatment

2006-02-27T21:59:00.000-08:00

What are Cytokines?

Cytokines are the messengers of the immune system-they are sometimes called immune hormones. They can act either locally or at a distance. Cytokines can either enhance or suppress immunity. In cancer treatment they are generally used to enhance immunity.

Two cytokines, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-alfa 2b are approved by the FDA for use against certain cancers. IL-2 is used to treat renal cell carcinoma, melanoma, lymphoma, and leukemia. Interferon has been useful against those diseases and Kaposi's sarcoma, chronic myelogenous leukemia, and hairy cell leukemia.

The response rate of individual cytokines is generally low. Cytokines are produced by white blood cells in combinations-in nature they work together. Studies using combined cytokines-in the ratios they are produced naturally have shown that the combinations have synergistic effects. For instance, IL-2 is used to stimulate certain white blood cells to divide. When used alone, a very high dose of IL-2 is required to make the cells divide. High doses of IL-2 can cause serious negative side effects. When a natural combination of cytokines produced by white blood cells is used, the dose of IL-2 can be lowered by a factor of 5000 producing minimal side effects. This is one of the combinations of cytokines used at ITL Cancer Clinic.

These combinations of cytokines can also be used to enhance the effects of a vaccine designed to stimulate the immune system to mount a cancer cell specific immune response. Heat shock protein vaccines and dendritic cell vaccines can both be enhanced when given with natural cytokine mixtures.

Heat Shock Antigen Cancer Vaccine

2006-02-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

The immune system - the body's natural defense against disease - is made up of a several types of specialized cells. These cells recognize structures, called antigens, that are found on disease-causing agents. Antigens trigger an immune response that results in the proliferation of immune system cells and the eventual removal of the harmful antigen from the body. The goal of immune therapies for cancer is to alert white blood cells to attack cancer cells.

What is Heat Shock Antigen Vaccine?

ITL's heat shock antigen vaccine (HSAV) is an investigational personalized vaccine designed to treat the immune systems of people with cancer while minimizing side effects. HSAV treatment is intended to target only cancerous cells, potentially improving clinical response and prolonging survival without serious adverse effects or disruption of quality of life.

How does HSAV work?

Based on proprietary technology, the HSAC is designed to capture the particular cancer's 'fingerprint.' This fingerprint contains unique antigens (substances that can provoke an immune response) that are present only on that particular patient's specific cancer cells. Injection of the vaccine is intended to reprogram the patient's immune system to recognize and attack any cells bearing the specific cancer fingerprint.

How is HSAV made?

The HSAV is made from individual patients' tumors and heat shock proteins produced by the patients' own white blood cells. Patients have surgery to remove part or all of the cancerous tissue, and a portion of this tissue and a blood sample are shipped to ITL's laboratory in Freeport Bahamas.

Using a proprietary process, heat shock proteins from the white blood cells are purified and combined with purified antigens from the tumor. The combination is then sterilely filtered and placed into vials. The final product is subject to extensive quality-control testing, including sterility testing of each lot.

In what kind of cancers is HSAV being tested?

HSAV is currently being tested in patients with malignant melanoma, prostate cancer, renal cell carcinoma, colon cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

Breast cancer medicine praised

2006-02-27T21:36:00.000-08:00

Tamoxifen, the celebrated drug credited with slashing breast cancer death rates worldwide, could be eclipsed by a newer medicine that is even more effective at preventing a recurrence of the disease in women whose tumors were caught early and removed.

A large, international study of postmenopausal women with early-stage cancer found that those who took tamoxifen for 2 1/2 years and then switched to exemestane for another 2 1/2 years were one-third less likely to suffer a recurrence than those who took tamoxifen the whole time.

The women switching to exemestane also had less serious side effects, were 56 percent less likely to get cancer in the other breast, and were half as likely to develop unrelated cancer in other parts of the body.

Lead researcher Dr. R.C. Coombes, professor of cancer medicine at Imperial College School of Medicine in London, predicted doctors will give exemestane to many women at high risk for recurrence, such as those whose breast cancer has spread to multiple lymph nodes.

Exemestane, which went on the market in 1999 for advanced breast cancer, is a hormonal drug sold under the brand Aromasin. It is part of a newer class of breast cancer drugs called aromatase inhibitors.

The findings were published in today's New England Journal of Medicine. The research was partly paid for by Pfizer Inc., the maker of Aromasin.

Dr. Jeff Abrams, the National Cancer Institute's associate chief of clinical research, said a recent study on exemestane "cousin" letrozole showed important advantages over tamoxifen for the class.

"I think with these two studies together, the strategy of switching from tamoxifen to these aromatase inhibitors will become a new standard," said Abrams, who was not involved in the study.

Several recent studies have shown that exemestane and other aromatase inhibitors also work longer, with less toxicity, than tamoxifen in women whose breast cancer had spread to other areas. Exemestane also has been shown to prolong the survival of women with advanced breast cancer after tamoxifen and other drugs fail.

"This whole class of drugs looks very promising, very active," said Dr. Julia Smith, clinical associate professor of oncology at the NYU medical school and cancer institute.

The study, which involved 4,742 postmenopausal women in 37 countries, focused on women with breast cancer in which the hormone estrogen fuels tumor growth — the type responsible for about 70 percent of breast cancer. The results do not apply to premenopausal women or those with tough-to-treat breast cancer not driven by estrogen.

Early-stage breast cancer is often treated with surgery to remove the tumor, plus radiation. Then, if the cancer cells were found to have spread to the underarm lymph nodes, the patient is given cancer drugs for years.

Women suffering the type of cancer fueled by estrogen are given daily tamoxifen pills for five years to prevent any cancer cells lurking in the body from later triggering cancer in another spot.

However, cancer cells grow resistant to tamoxifen in many patients, sometimes within 12 months, and prolonged use can cause uterine cancer and dangerous blood clots.

Those problems spurred interest in hormonal drugs such as aromatase inhibitors, which dramatically suppress estrogen production by blocking the effects of an enzyme called aromatase. Tamoxifen works differently; it binds to specific tumor cell sites to keep estrogen from attaching itself and directing the cancer cells to multiply.

In the study, exemestane caused more bone thinning, joint pain and diarrhea than tamoxifen but was less likely to cause blood clots, vaginal bleeding, muscle cramps and other gynecological symptoms. Rates of other side effects, including hot flashes, fatigue, insomnia, headaches and dizziness, were about the same for the two drugs.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

2006-02-27T21:19:00.000-08:00

To everything, there is a season. Our physical and emotional health is no exception. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is nationally recognized during the month of December, is an example of how a change in seasons can affect our wellbeing.
Between 4 and 6 percent of the U.S. population suffers from SAD. It is more commonly observed in those who live at high latitudes (areas farther away from the equator to the north and south). Seasonal changes are generally more extreme in these regions, supporting the idea that SAD is caused by changes in sunlight availability.

Seasonal Affective Disorder can occur during summer with limited symptoms such as weight loss, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. Winter symptoms tend to be more severe. They include fatigue, increased need for sleep, decreased energy levels, weight gain, increase in appetite, difficulty concentrating and increased desire to be alone.

The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine states that, "People and nature are inseparable." The winter months, which represent the height of the yin cycle and the water element, can cause those whose constitution tends toward yin to feel the effects of this season more acutely. Energetic imbalances, which are associated with emotional and physical disturbances in the body, can become more pronounced after a change in weather and sunlight. Western medicine currently treats seasonal affective disorder with light therapy and sometimes with antidepressants. The downside to these therapies is that they carry side effects such as eyestrain, headache, irritability, fatigue, insomnia, palpitations, high blood pressure and reduced libido. Also, these therapies do not address the underlying problems, but merely offer symptom relief.

Acupuncture, which has shown promising results treating depression by releasing serotonin and noradrenaline-norepinephrine, has no side effects. Together with a treatment plan created by a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture can improve balance of mood and energy, relieving the patient from the burdens of a depressed, unbalanced system.

Acupuncture Facts

2006-02-27T21:07:00.000-08:00

What is Acupuncture?

The intent of acupuncture therapy is to promote health and alleviate pain and suffering. The method by which this is accomplished, though it may seem strange and mysterious to many, has been time tested over thousands of years and continues to be validated today.

The perspective from which an acupuncturist views health and sickness hinges on concepts of "vital energy," "energetic balance" and "energetic imbalance." Just as the Western medical doctor monitors the blood flowing through blood vessels and the messages traveling via the nervous system, the acupuncturist assesses the flow and distribution of this "vital energy" within its pathways, known as "meridians and channels".

The acupuncturist is able to influence health and sickness by stimulating certain areas along these "meridians". Traditionally these areas or "acupoints" were stimulated by fine, slender needles. Today, many additional forms of stimulation are incorporated, including herbs, electricity, magnets and lasers. Still, the aim remains the same - adjust the "vital energy" so the proper amount reaches the proper place at the proper time. This helps your body heal itself.

Acupuncture is just one form of therapy used within the coherent system of healing known as Oriental Medicine. Oriental Medicine includes herbology, physical therapy, dietetics and special exercises (such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong), and is a complete medical system unto itself and is not another branch of modern Western medicine. Acupuncture evolved from principles and philosophies unique to Oriental thinking and Oriental Medicine, and is most effectively applied when done in accordance with those principles.

What is the history?
Most experts would say that acupuncture is at least 2000 years old. The exact age is less important than the fact that Oriental Medicine is the most widely utilized healing system on this planet.

Its roots are in China, but the fruits of its potential to help the sick and injured are apparent in many places, including all of Asia, Europe and America.

Today, the art and science of Acupuncture / Oriental Medicine is still not understood by many, yet it continues to gain popularity and acceptance because of one fact - IT WORKS.

How does acupuncture work?
For millennia, the acupuncturist has been engaging subtle human energies, otherwise known as "Qi". According to time-tested principles unique to Oriental Medicine, the acupuncturist would assess and adjust the flow and distribution of "Qi" in order to promote health and healing.

So far, modern research has described various physiological shifts following acupuncture, such as beneficial changes in the body's own natural painkillers, anti-inflammatory agents, immune system functions and hormonal activity.

Despite the powerful technology available today, even the modern physicists cannot explain exactly how this ancient healing therapy works. Perhaps in the near future, the actual chemical and electromagnetic events that occur during acupuncture will be described.

Why use Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine?
In addition to being effective for many acute and chronic common illnesses, Oriental Medicine has much to offer those who wish to raise the quality of health and vitality. Practitioners of Oriental Medicine operate with prevention in mind, attempting to correct small energetic imbalances before they become big health problems.

Current health trends emphasizing exercise, proper nutrition, stress reduction and immune system strengthening all validate the life-styles and methods that have always been promoted by practitioners and advocates of Acupuncture / Oriental Medicine.

Are there side effects?
When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is safe and effective, free fromadverse or addictive side effects. Quite often, a sense of relaxation and well-being occurs during and after treatments. While undergoing therapy for one ailment, other problems may resolve concurrently. This is a common side benefit that again demonstrates the value of balancing the quality and quantity of "vital energy" within the entire person.

What are the limits of Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture?
Oriental Medicine and acupuncture are powerful healing tools, but they are not panaceas nor the solution to every health care problem. Both Western and Oriental Medicine have their respective strengths and weaknesses, which is why in modern China, the two systems are used together. When appropriately combined, the patient is well served.

Generally speaking, acute, life threatening conditions are best handled by Western medical doctors. Routine health problems and chronic conditions, for which drug therapy and surgery have not been effective, often benefit from Acupuncture / Oriental Medicine.

How do I choose an acupuncturist?
For over 12 years, the Medical Board of California has been licensing acupuncturists. At present, one is allowed to practice only after successfully completing four years of training at an approved college of Oriental Medicine, and passing a rigorous written and practical exam given by the California Acupuncture Committee. The title "Licensed Acupuncturist" or "L.Ac." means that these criteria have been met. Always look for a copy of the license, which should be clearly displayed in the practitioner's office.

Organizations such as the California Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Association can help you locate a qualified practitioner. Call them at: (800) 477-4564 to find the name of a licensed CAA member in your area.

What should I ask the practitioner I'm considering?
Always ask any practitioner about the extent of his or her training. Have them explain the differences between Oriental Medicine and Western Medicine in language that you can understand.

Oriental medicine has its limitations just as Western Medicine does. Look for practitioners who know their limitations and have referral networks to take care of your health in ways they cannot.

Ask them about previous experience with conditions similar to your own. Although it is difficult to forecast response to treatments, ask about the signs and changes that the practitioner looks for to confirm that treatments are progressing well.

Inquire about what therapies will be used and why. Practitioners should be able to explain any procedure they perform.

What does the examination/consultation involve?
An exam/consultation includes what you tell the practitioner about your medical history and what your body says: The appearance of the face and body build, the shape and color of the tongue, the quality of the pulses, the feel of diagnostic areas such as the abdomen and back. An acupuncturist may test for weaknesses along the "meridians" and weaknesses in the muscles. Sometimes devices that measure electrical activity of acupoints may be used.

How long is the visit?
Usually the first visit is the longest in order to allow for a complete history taking and exam - typically an hour. Follow-up visits are shorter, usually 15 to 45 minutes, depending on practitioner and patient needs. Sometimes other therapies, such as moxabustion, acupressure/massage and exercises are incorporated with the acupuncture treatment.

Don't the needles hurt?
Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair. The sensations that follow range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight numbness/achiness, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion. All these sensations usually subside once the needles are removed. The needles used for acupuncture are much smaller that the standard hypodermic needle, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow.

What is treatment like?
Most patients would say, "relaxing." Usually patients leave in less discomfort and are more functional than when they walked in. Sometimes the effects are too subtle to perceive, especially in the beginning of treatment. Yet after 5 to 10 treatments the improvements become more and more apparent.

Is it safe?
If performed by a qualified, conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists know the human anatomy well, and insert needles in a safe fashion. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are either pre-sterilized and disposable after a single use, or disinfected and sterilized in an autoclave, as surgical and dental instruments are, after each use.

The practitioner is well aware of the concern over infectious diseases, and takes every measure to insure cleanliness as all health care professional do.

Bleeding rarely occurs, unless done so on purpose in specific situations. Even then the amount is minimal and in no way dangerous.

What services can a practitioner of Oriental Medicine/Acupuncture provide?
Acupuncture, Acupressure/Massage, Therapeutic Exercises, Herbal Medicine, Diet therapy, Breathing Exercises, Referrals, Oriental Medical Diagnosis.

Alzheimer's Disease: There is Hope!

2006-02-26T23:02:00.000-08:00

Have you or someone you care about been given a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease? Don't accept it as a fact without some very careful checking. A prominent Canadian psychiatrist estimates that as many as 40% of all Alzheimer's diagnoses are wrong(1). This is particularly tragic in cases where the symptoms of dementia (gradual loss of intellectual functioning) are due, not to Alzheimer's disease, but to a vitamin-B12 deficiency, a drug reaction, hypothyroidism, or cerebrovascular disease(1,2,3). All of these latter conditions are reversible.
A vitamin-B12 deficiency can be treated with injections of the vitamin if caught in time. However, if left untreated the neurological damage caused by the deficiency becomes permanent(4,5). Some researchers believe that a vitamin B-12 deficiency and Alzheimer's disease are closely linked and that a deficiency can actually lead to the disease(6).

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and occurs worldwide. About four million Americans now suffer from it(7). The disease is rare in people younger than 40 years of age but its prevalence grows rapidly between the ages of 65 and 85. It is estimated that almost half of all people over 85 years are victims(3,7). AD is an insidious disease that is usually fatal within 10 years of onset(2,4). Its victims are frequently unaware that they have it and the initial suspicions are often raised by relatives or friends. The first sign is usually the loss of short term memory, then follows difficulties in time perception, communication, reading and writing and eventually in using common household objects and in caring for oneself. Midway through the progression AD patients tend to lose the ability to recognize people and eventually become totally helpless. Anxiety, depression, wandering, and aggressive behaviour are common conditions seen in the progression of AD(2,3).

AD is difficult to diagnose correctly and the diagnosis can only be made with certainty through an autopsy. The brain tissue of Alzheimer's victims contains characteristic neurofibrillary tangles and deposits of amyloid plaque. It is believed that the neurofibrillary tangles and the plaque deposits are somehow connected with the death of brain neurons and the subsequent development of dementia(2,3). Although there is no consensus as to the ultimate cause of AD medical research has uncovered a number of significant risk factors.

It is estimated that about 20% of all cases of AD has an important genetic component(3). There is, however, no question that environmental risk factors are of prime importance in determining who develops AD and who does not.

Epidemiologic studies have shown that Alzheimer's patients have a higher level of aluminum in their brain than do healthy people(1,2,8). Particularly high levels have been found in the beta-amyloid deposits which are so characteristic of the disease. Aluminum is known to be highly toxic to brain neurons and recent research has shown that it can cause amyloid fibrils to aggregate into structures resembling neurofibrillary tangles(9,10). Canadian studies have found a direct correlation between the aluminum content of drinking water and the incidence of AD(11,12). Although some medical doctors still question the aluminum link there seems to be growing consensus that aluminum is somehow involved, if not in the initiation of the disease, then at least in accelerating its progression(2,10).

The level of mercury in the brain of AD patients is significantly elevated and it is now accepted that chronic low level mercury poisoning may be a significant factor in the development of AD. The level of mercury in the brain has been found to be proportional to the number of amalgam fillings in the teeth(1,2).

Free radical reactions are believed to be directly involved in the development of AD(2,13-16). Researchers at the University of South Florida have found that beta-amyloid, in an interaction with superoxide radicals, constricts and damages the lining of the tiny blood vessels which supply the brain. The researchers believe that this process ultimately leads to neurodegenerative disease, specifically AD(16). Other researchers suggest that free radicals destroy brain neurons directly(17). Free radical reactions can be suppressed by antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase and vitamin-E(15,16,18).

Exposure to high levels of electromagnetic radiation has been linked to the development of AD as have severe head injuries and a family history of AD or Parkinson's disease(2,19,20).

Vitamin deficiencies have been implicated in the development of AD(1). A vitamin B-12 deficiency is particularly serious as it can mimic the symptoms of AD and may even progress to AD itself(6). One recent study found that 40% of elderly Americans suffers from a vitamin B-12 deficiency(21,22). People who have had surgery for stomach ulcers are particularly prone to a vitamin B-12 deficiency(5). Lack of vitamins A, E, and beta-carotene has also been linked to the development of AD. British researchers found that AD patients admitted to a London hospital had only half the vitamin E level in their blood as did healthy, matched controls. The patients' beta-carotene levels were four times lower than that of the controls(17).

A low level of education and attainment has been linked to AD as has a paucity of ideas and low linguistic ability(2,23-25). Some researchers postulate that brains which have greater intellectual capacity are better able to tolerate neuron death without developing AD(24,25).

It is tempting to speculate that vigorous exercise of the brain, particularly in the early years, may be effective in preventing AD. However, recent research has discovered many less speculative measures that anyone concerned about developing AD can easily take:

-Avoid exposure to aluminum as much as possible. Aluminum is found in drinking water, processed cheese, baking powder, antacids (Di-Gel, Maalox, Gelusil, Mylanta, and Rolaids), buffered aspirin (Bufferin), antidiarrheal preparations (Donnagel, Kaopectate and Rheaban), anti-perspirants, foods cooked in aluminum pots and coffe made in aluminum-containing percolators(8,26). Aluminum cans and aluminum-coated wax containers can also transfer significant amounts of aluminum to the beverages contained in them(8). Aluminum in drinking water is common and hard to avoid; however, silicic acid prevents it from entering the blood stream(27,28).

-Avoid exposure to mercury. Do not accept amalgam fillings and have existing ones removed if they appear to be causing problems(1). Selenium is an effective antidote to mercury and a daily intake of up to 200 micrograms is safe and effective(29,30).

-Avoid prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields. Be particularly wary of sewing machines, electric blankets, microwave ovens, computer monitors, and clock radios and answering machines placed close to the bed(19,20,31).

-Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and ensure an adequate intake of antioxidants and vitamins, particularly the B vitamins and folic acid. Vitamin B-12 should be taken in the form of injections or as sublingual tablets as it is not easily absorbable(32).

-Consider supplementing with Bio-Strath. This plasmolysed herbal yeast preparation (Saccharomyces cerevisia) has been manufactured in Switzerland for decades and clinical trials have recently established that it prevents and, in some cases, reverses many age-related conditions and disorders. Bio-Strath is particularly effective in improving short term memory, but also improves circulation and boosts the immune system(33).

-Some very recent studies have shown that women taking estrogen (Premarin) are less likely to develop AD and that certain NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs) may also have a protective effect. However, these findings should be treated with caution and need to be confirmed in clinical trials(7,34,35).

Conventional medical wisdom has it that there is no cure for AD and no effective means of slowing its progress. Fortunately, this has not prevented medical researchers and alternative medicine practitioners from discovering several ways of halting or at least slowing the progression of AD. NOTE: The treatments described in the following should not be undertaken except on the advice of your health care professional.

The first and absolutely crucial step in the fight against AD is to ensure that the diagnosis is correct. Insist that your doctor take all the necessary steps to rule out other causes of dementia. To spend the rest of your life in a nursing home as a vegetable because a vitamin B-12 deficiency was misdiagnosed would indeed be a cruel twist of fate.

It also makes sense to follow the suggestions given for preventing AD with an increased intake of antioxidants and vitamins as prescribed by your health care provider. Removal of amalgam fillings at this point can also bring about dramatic improvements(1,36). Amalgam fillings should always be removed by a dentist specially trained to do so - otherwise the condition may worsen.

British scientists believe that sage oil may be effective in the treatment of AD. They found that sage oil inhibits the action of acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down acetylcholine. An abnormally low acetylcholine level in the brain is a key feature of AD. It is interesting that the 17th-century herbalist, John Gerard, said about sage: "Sage helpeth a weake braine or memory and restoreth them being decayed in a short time"(37).

The herbal supplement Bio-Strath has been found highly effective in the treatment of early AD symptoms such as memory loss and mental confusion. Recent clinical trials carried out in Germany showed that 59% of the AD patients involved saw significant improvement in their condition after three months of Bio-Strath supplementation (2 teaspoons of the syrup 3 times daily). In another 41% the progression of the disease was halted and in no cases did the condition worsen among the treated patients. In contrast, 31% of the patients in the placebo group had a significant worsening of their symptoms over the test period(38).

Ginkgo biloba is the most prescribed medicine in Germany and is effective in correcting conditions of cerebral insufficiency (including memory loss) and intermittent claudication(1,39,40).

Homeopathic treatment of AD is an important option. The remedy alumina was discovered by the founder of homeopathy, Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, in 1829. Dr. Hahnemann found it highly effective in treating "Great weakness or loss of memory" and in cases where "Consciousness of personal identity is confused"(41,42).

Homeopathy is based on the principle that a substance which in relatively large amounts will cause a disease will, when given in infinitesimally small (homeopathic) amounts, cure that same disease. It is ironic that homeopaths knew over 150 years ago that homeopathic concentrations of aluminum oxide would cure symptoms of dementia while we are just now realizing that much larger amounts of aluminum may actually cause these symptoms.

Alzheimer's disease is a cruel, debilitating and demeaning disease which can turn many a period of hoped for "golden years" into a living hell. Research is constantly uncovering new facets of the disease and preventive measures and promising new therapies are being developed which will ultimately halt its relentless progress.

Alternative Medicine: Why so popular?

2006-02-26T22:50:00.000-08:00

In 1997 Americans made 627 million visits to practitioners of alternative medicine and spent $27 billion of their own money to pay for alternative therapies. In contrast, Americans made only 386 million visits to their family doctor. It is estimated, by none other than the Harvard Medical School, that one out of every two persons in the United States between the ages of 35 and 49 years used at least one alternative therapy in 1997. That is a growth of 47.3 per cent since 1990. This is spectacular by any means and of great concern to conventional (allopathic) medicine especially since the people using alternative medicine are primarily well-educated, affluent baby boomers(1).

The trend to alternative medicine is repeated throughout Western society. In Australia 57 percent of the population now use some form of alternative medicine, in Germany 46 percent do, and in France 49 percent do. The growth of some types of alternative medicine is indeed astounding. Between 1991 and 1997 the use of herbal medicines in the United States grew by 380 per cent and the use of vitamin therapy by 130 per cent. These are impressive numbers by anyone's standard(1-3).

What it is and isn't
So why do people increasingly prefer alternative to conventional medicine? The reasons are pretty simple - it is safe and it works! While there is little doubt that allopathic medicine works well in the case of trauma and emergency (you don't call your herbalist if you get hit by a car), it is much less effective when it comes to prevention, chronic disease, and in addressing the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of an individual. These are precisely the areas where alternative medicine excels. To most of the world's population, over 80 per cent to be precise, alternative medicine is not "alternative" at all, but rather the basis of the health care system. To Western-trained physicians alternative medicine is "something not taught in medical schools" and something that allopathic doctors don't do and, one could add, generally know nothing about. Alternative medicine actually encompasses a very large array of different systems and therapies ranging from ayurvedic medicine to vitamin therapy.

Ayurvedic medicine has been practiced in India for the past five thousand years and has recently undergone a renaissance in the West due, in no small measure, to the work and lectures of Dr. Deepak Chopra, MD. Ayurvedic medicine is a very comprehensive system that places equal emphasis on body, mind, and spirit and uses a highly personalized approach to return an individual to a state where he or she is again in harmony with their environment. Ayurvedic medicine uses diet, exercise, yoga, meditation, massage, herbs, and medication and, despite its long lineage, is as applicable today as it was 5000 years ago. For example, the seeds of the Mucuna pruriens plant have long been used to treat Parkinson's disease in India; it is now receiving attention in conventional circles as it is more effective than l-dopa and has fewer side effects(4).

Traditional Chinese medicine has been practiced for over 3000 years and over one quarter of the world's population now uses one or more of its component therapies. TCM combines the use of medicinal herbs, acupuncture, and the use of therapeutic exercises such as Qi Gong. It has proven to be effective in the treatment of many chronic diseases including cancer, allergies, heart disease and AIDS. As does Ayurvedic medicine, TCM also focuses on the individual and looks for and corrects the underlying causes of imbalance and patterns of disharmony.

Homeopathy was developed in the early 1800s by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann. It is a low-cost, non-toxic health care system now used by hundreds of millions of people around the world. It is particularly popular in South America and the British Royal Family has had a homeopathic physician for the last four generations. Homeopathy is an excellent first-aid system and is also superb in the treatment of minor ailments such as earaches, the common cold, and flu. Homeopathy is again based on the treatment of the individual and when used by a knowledgeable practitioner can also be very effective in the cure of conditions such as hay fever, digestive problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and respiratory infections.

Chiropracty primarily involves the adjustment of spine and joints to alleviate pain and improve general health. It was practiced by the early Egyptians and was developed into its present form by the American Daniel David Palmer in 1895. It is now the most common form of alternative medicine in the United States. Chiropractors not only manipulate spine and joints, but also advise their patients on lifestyle and diet matters. They believe that humans possess an innate healing potential and that all disease can be overcome by properly activating this potential.

Naturopathic medicine also strongly believes in the body's inherent ability to heal itself. Naturopathy emphasizes the need for seeking and treating the causes of a disease rather than simply suppressing its symptoms. Naturopaths use dietary modifications, herbal medicines, homeopathy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, massage, and lifestyle counseling to achieve healing.

Vitamin therapy or orthomolecular medicine uses vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to return a diseased body to wellness in the belief that the average diet today is often woefully inadequate in providing needed nutrients and that the need for specific nutrients is highly individual. Conditions as varied as hypertension, depression, cancer, and schizophrenia can all benefit enormously from vitamin therapy.

Biofeedback, body work, massage therapy, reflexology, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and various other forms of energy medicine round out the vast spectrum of alternative medicine modalities.

How is it different?
So what sets alternative medicine apart from allopathic medicine?

- Conventional medicine is preferred in the treatment of trauma and emergencies while alternative medicine excels in the treatment of chronic disease, although homeopathy can also be very effective as a first-aid.

- Conventional medicine focuses on the relief of symptoms and rarely places emphasis on prevention or the treatment of the cause of a disorder. All alternative systems, on the other hand, strive to find and treat the cause of a disorder and frown on covering up the symptoms. Alternative therapies are also much more focused on prevention.

- Conventional medicine is organ specific, hence ophthalmologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, neurologists, etc. Alternative medicine, without exception, considers each person as a unique individual and uses a holistic approach in treatment.

- Conventional medicine believes in aggressive intervention to treat disease. It revels in terms such as "magic bullet" and "war" ("the war on cancer"), and prefers quick fixes (as do many patients). Alternative medicine believes in gentle, long-term support to enable the body's own innate powers to do the healing.

- Conventional medicine's main "arsenal" consists of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and powerful pharmaceutical drugs. Alternative medicine uses time-tested, natural remedies and gentle, hands-on treatments.

- Conventional medicine practitioners are guided in their treatment by strict rules set out by the Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons. This often leads to a "one size fits all" approach. Practitioners of alternative medicine, on the other hand, treat each patient as an individual and do what, in their opinion, is best rather than what is specified in a "rule book".

- Conventional medicine sees the body as a mechanical system (the heart is a pump and the kidneys are a filter) and believes most disorders can be traced to chemical imbalances and therefore are best treated with powerful chemicals (drugs). Alternative medicine systems, almost without exception, accept that the body is suffused by a network of channels (meridians) that carry a subtle form of life energy. Imbalances or blockages of this energy are what lead to disease and clearing of the blockages and strengthening of the energy is the ultimate goal of alternative medicine.

- Conventional medicine prefers patients to be passive and accept their treatment without too many questions. Alternative medicine, in contrast, prefers and indeed, in many cases, requires the patient to take a highly active part in both prevention and treatment.

- Both conventional and alternative medicine ascribe to the principle "Do no harm". However, while alternative medicine is essentially achieving this goal, conventional medicine seems to have almost totally lost sight of it. Hospitals are now the third largest killer in Australia and over one million people are seriously injured in American hospitals every year. Blood infections acquired in American hospitals cause 62,000 fatalities every year and bypass surgery results in 25,000 strokes a year. Two million patients experience adverse drug reactions in hospitals in the United States every year; of these, over 100,000 die making hospital-induced adverse drug reactions the fourth leading cause of death after heart disease, cancer, and stroke(5-11).

- The practice of conventional medicine is intimately tied in with the whole medico-pharmaceutical-industrial complex whose first priority is to make a profit. Although most conventional physicians have "healing the patient" as their first priority, they find it increasingly difficult to do so while operating within the system with its pharmaceutical salesmen, its rule books, its fear of malpractice suits, its endless paperwork to satisfy bureaucrats and insurance companies, and its time pressures. Most alternative medicine practitioners have no such constraints and pressures and can give the patient their undivided attention.

- Conventional medicine generally resists the use of natural remedies long after their efficacy has been scientifically proven (Germany is an exception to this). Most alternative medicine practitioners eagerly embrace new remedies and, in many cases, can point to years of safe use. Ginkgo biloba is now the most prescribed drug in Germany and has been found effective in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease(12). Also in Germany the herb saw palmetto is now prescribed in 90 per cent of all cases of enlarged prostate; in the United States 300,000 prostate operations are performed each year to solve this problem. More profitable for sure, but dangerous and unpleasant for the patient(13).

- The major source of funds for medical research is pharmaceutical companies who, not surprisingly, are very reluctant to support investigations into lifestyle modifications, vitamins, and other unpatentable products. Nevertheless, a growing number of medical researchers are focusing their attention on natural supplements and remedies and are publishing their work in mainstream journals. The benefits of antioxidants have now been thoroughly documented by researchers at the Harvard Medical School and similar prestigious institutions. Folic acid, a simple B vitamin, has also been extensively studied in university laboratories and has been found to be effective in preventing or ameliorating heart attacks, strokes, angina, intermittent claudication, atherosclerosis, kidney disease, colon cancer, hearing loss, and Alzheimer's disease(14-18).

Although alternative practitioners and a small group of conventional physicians do embrace the use of natural therapies and products the vast majority of "establishment" physicians are still dragging their heels and even denigrating and ridiculing alternative medicine. This fact, perhaps more than anything else, is what is driving the rapid and massive switch from conventional to alternative medicine.

Types of Alternative Care

2005-12-28T23:15:00.000-08:00

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health recognizes seven general areas of alternative care (some of which have been put through rigorous scientific testing, but many have not):

Alternative medical systems generally fall outside the conventional medical system of doctors and hospitals. They include acupuncture, the practice of stimulating points on the body (usually with a needle) to promote healing; traditional Oriental medicine, which focuses on diagnosing disturbances of energy in the body; homeopathy, treating health problems with very diluted substances; and community-based healers like midwives, herbalists, and practitioners of Native American medicine.

Herbal remedies include a wide range of plants used for medicine or nutrition. They are available in grocery stores, in health food stores, or through herbalists and are often in the form of teas, capsules, and extracts. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate these substances. About one third of American adults regularly take some sort of herb, anything from a cup of chamomile tea to soothe nerves to echinacea to fight a cold.

Manual healing treats medical problems by manipulating and realigning body parts. Perhaps the most widely known method is chiropractic care, which focuses on the nervous system and adjusting the spinal column (the bones that encase the spinal cord). Other forms of manual healing include massage therapy; osteopathic medicine, which uses manipulation in addition to traditional medicine and surgical treatment; and healing touch, where practitioners place their hands on or near the patient's body to direct energy.