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Did you know that inflammation in your body could predispose you to health risks? Did you know that the hormone shifts in menopause could further raise levels of inflammation? What is inflammation? We often think inflammation with tangible things like scraped knees. A scraped knee has obvious redness, swelling, pain and heat, right? The thing about inflammation inside your body is that it is silent but still holds the possibility of being destructive. In menopause there are changes with estrogen levels. These shifts together with existing inflammation can impact your health. This article is intended to give you food for thought, information to make educated choices, and reconnect you to the fact that your body is made to heal. Inflammation serves the valuable purpose of fixing tissue damage; so it’s not all bad. Cellular repair is important and necessary. However ongoing inflammation, which does not resolve, is problematic. Remember you always have an opportunity to guide your body away from being more inflamed to less inflamed. So what happens with this inner inflammation? One way to look at this “silent” inflammation is that it is like oil build-up inside an engine. Your engine needs oil to lubricate your gears. However, if the oil is dirty, build-ups occur, your gears are stressed, and things may grind to a halt. Atherosclerosis (build up of fatty materials inside blood vessels) is one common example of a result of chronic inflammation, very much like clogged gears. Do you have: Allergies? Popping or clicking joints? Redness or broken blood vessels in your face or neck? Increasing sensitivities to foods or environmental substances? High blood pressure? Elevations in your cholesterol, triglycerides or C-reactive protein lab works? High blood sugar? Cravings for sugar? Drowsiness after meals? Extra weight around your mid section? Yes to any of the above, indicates inflammation. Inflammation can be temporary or can be chronic depending upon your health history, genetics and various lifestyle habits and how many of the above factors you have at the same time. Here is what you can do right now to help reduce inflammation in your body: Avoid environmental and nutritional things to which you are sensitive. It sounds simple but most of us know when we don’t tolerate specific foods or beverages. Yet we still “try them” now and again. It’s not worth it. If curry always does a number on your digestive tract: it’s not worth the stress to your system. Give up gluten in your diet. Even if you are not formally allergic to gluten, there are multiple reasons to avoid it. Firstly gluten is a highly inflammatory substance. It is like tossing gasoline onto any inflammation fire inside your body. Secondly, gluten found in the typical diet is a hybridized genetically modified organism (GMO), which is foreign to our bodies. Lastly it is too heavily ingested as far as quantity. Gluten will substantially ramp up any inflammatory process happening in your system. A wealth of information currently exists on gluten-free foods; so do some research. (http://www.triumphdining.com/blog/, http://www.glutenfreeliving.com/blog/) Specifically avoid: wheat, spelt, semolina, barley, bulgur, and rye. Incorporate into your diet: rice, potatoes, quinoa, wheat-free oats, millet, or amaranth. Corn is a possibility but keep in mind that corn too is inflammatory though not to the degree of wheat. Increase in your muscle mass and decrease in your body fat. This does not mean hours and hours in the gym. Even modest shifts in body fat substantially reduce your body’s tendency to make inflammatory substances. Give your body antioxidant rich foods and supplements like: Berries, Broccoli, Carrots, Tomatoes, Red grapes, Garlic, Spinach, Green tea. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Beta Carotene. Increase your intake of Omega-3 Fatty Acids like: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). You can also supplement with Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) but this Omega-3 is sometimes harder to absorb if you have multiple inflammatory signs. Dietary sources of Omega-3’s: Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna, Flaxseed oil, Algal oil, Krill oil.
Make an appointment with your Acupuncturist, Naturopath or Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Clinical Nutritionist or Personal Trainer to get more information, get evaluated and create a plan, which will work for you and your lifestyle.
In the year 2007, a total of 6 people in my life died. Beyond people living in war torn countries, who knows anyone for whom 6 loved ones departed this good green Earth in a typical year? It was intense. I realized as I walking my dog recently that there are few to whom I’ve talked about 2007. Three of my loved ones died from brain tumors from various cancers. Two more were utterly freak accidents. The final passing was from complications of diabetes. My kind and compassionate business partners and close friends knew; but it became almost embarrassing. It was like: “Another one? Really? Your poor family!” I caught myself wondering if those that knew would think I was making things up like some sort of whacko attention getting ploy. I grew to loathe the phone ringing because all too often I would hang up with a sinking, shock-like feeling realizing while whirling that I still had to keep it together to move through life. Ironically, 2007 was also the year I plunged into co-ownership of Balance Restored Center for Integrative Medicine in Mill Valley, which is the site for my acupuncture practice and which I love. When it rains it pours it seems. Things I learned… Despite the losses and the intensity of the stacked proximity of each passing, 2007 was year of pivotal learning, largely due to the way in which my loved ones moved through death. My friend Palmer was perhaps the most graceful. He was venerated teacher and inspired students of all ages his whole life.He read a book a week, sometimes more, and had knack for suggesting just the right book for whatever ailed you. Palmer was my very first real patient in my very first acupuncture office. Two days before he stepped across, I had what was the greatest honor of going to treat him in his Napa home. He was calm but was having some difficulty breathing. I asked if he would mind if I stimulated some acu-points on his chest to help with his breathing. Not missing a beat, or a stand-up opportunity apparently, he chirped out in his best Norwegian fisherman accent: “Well, keep in mind the ladies get very excited when I take off my shirt.” The solemn bedroom erupted into laughter. Grace, humor and the ongoing quest for knowledge are what I learned from Palmer. At Palmer’s memorial services dozens of people spoke about how he had impacted, touched and changed their lives. At the close of the service his son stood and said: “Please let’s give a round of applause for my father and a life well lived.” Laughter on a deathbed? Applause at a funeral? It was perfect, not usual, but perfect. These were among the lessons and gifts I took from Palmer. A year ago I wanted to get a special gift for my dear friend-Palmer’s daughter. Rich Sigberman, a local artist and friend created a watercolor of Palmer with blue herons taking flight in the background (http://sigsart.com). Palmer was fond of the Great Blue Heron, which held spiritual significance for him. To my surprise and delight, that small but so treasured watercolor gift, prompted a whole series of Blue Herons by Mr. Sigberman, one of which now hangs in my office.So Palmer’s grace takes flight and continues to inspire even now. Running scared from the grimmest reaper But death is not all Hallmark cards, fairy dust, and inspiration. Everyone, if not personally, innately knows this. Perhaps it is one reason why our culture avoids death, its discussion, and process. This avoidance is a common human phenomenon. Maybe death places us the cross hairs of considering our own mortality or threatens to unleash the tamped down, weighty emotions of grief, loss, and fear. Perhaps we dance around it because death is the ultimate life episode of us having zero control. When I was working as an ICU RN, I would often be surprised that when we had a dying patient on the unit, someone for whom we had exhausted all of the best medicine we had to offer, nurses shied away from taking that patient assignment.It was not malicious or callous. In fact it was quite unconscious. ICU nursing is fast-paced. In order for RN and patient alike to survive, the RN must be able to make accurate, rapid assessments followed by correct and timely interventions. The vigilance can be exhausting: Is the patient bleeding internally? Is the potassium too high or too low? Have their kidneys stopped functioning? Is there a mental status change and why? Whereas if the patient is moving through the death process, the nursing tasks turn to comfort care, supporting the family, assisting with social services interventions and the like. You see much pain and grief; but the biggest task can be willingly, lovingly and patiently remaining present-not running scared from the hooded guy with a scythe. One task at hand for family and friends: be present There is something in 2007 I learned about being present. It’s not about having answers, though personally it that makes me feel better. It’s about being present. That means: being present when it’s physically messy. That means: being present when sifting through the maddening insurance maize. That means: being present when there is no tidy, quick or comforting answer. That means: being present when families disagree or family dynamics are playing upon the stage. That’s why you so often hear people say, “Thank you for being here.” It is of immense comfort not to be alone. The bigger task at hand for the dying In contrast, the dying loved one is often about the business of shaking off the bulky, problematic strappings of physical temple and re-entering Brahmin, going to Heaven maybe after a hitting a rest area in Purgatory- if that is your belief. Maybe they are cooking up their next existence after this one. That’s yet another complexity: our many belief systems around spirit, this world and the world(s) beyond. Important things can refocus rapidly for dying people whereas family and friends might remain mired in day-to-day minutia.I remember my friend Sue struggling with finding a facility for her dying husband. The only one with room and availability was very worn and poorly maintained. It was heart breaking for her to see her husband in this setting. There was a pivotal moment when she was crying and upset about the surroundings when her dying husband Jon reached over and clasped her hand saying, “Sue. Listen to me. Really: this does not matter. It does not matter at all to me. I do not care.” I believe Jon was already spending a great deal of time on the other side. He slept a lot as many dying people do; but he was at peace with the workings of this physical human world. It was as though this existence was simply a part time role in a play into which he stepped now and again. He didn’t resist. He didn’t judge or get angry. He didn’t care that the night stand was chipped or that a little, old lady resident sometimes absently wandered into his room in confusion and had to be redirected back to hers etc. etc. It just wasn’t important any more. That checking out process can be rough on family and friends, grasping for last treasured moments and completions. For the transitioning human, one foot is already stepping onto that other side and it’s a comfy, blissful place there. The reality is that completions can occur at any time even when our loved ones are long passed. That part is our work: connecting, tuning in, tapping on and doing what we need to do to take care of ourselves for closure. Sometimes our dying friend or family simply does not have the reserves for closure in the here and now. Bumpy rides Not all death transitions are so graceful. That unfortunate instance is immensely and incalculably hard on loved ones. One dear friend became angry and prone to rages during the latter stages of his brain tumor. It happens. It wasn’t pretty. He was young and brilliant which made his death that much more painful. I remember him saying that he felt as though many people kept him at arm’s length because they worried about their own loss in the eventuality of his death. It was true. After his passing, I struggled with did I do enough as a clinician and friend? Did I miss something? Should I have done more, done less? “Should have”, “would have”, “could have” are all of those terribly destructive phrases. A wise coach later said to me: “Karen: on some level, any level at all, was there healing in your friend’s death?” ‘Yes, of course.’ I said without hesitation or contemplation. In that moment, I realized that nothing is lost. Nothing is ever lost, really. It feels so in the moment because we can not bend time and space to comply with our desires. But really, truly, no efforts go without benefit. We do the best we can. It’s a physics thing actually in that energy cannot be destroyed, only changed. Change our minds, change our hearts, change our lives. Spirit goes on beyond the body. That is my belief anyway and 2007 solidified that for me. So in closing: I’m not really sure why I needed to write this now in 2011, other than to say there are blessings and gifts even through death. If I had resisted 2007 those things would be lost and I would not carry them forward to hopefully help someone else in their process. There is an old Yiddish saying, “May his/her memory be a blessing to you.” It seems to me that part of the wisdom of that wish is seeking the blessing and light. I wish you all many blessings and applause at your life well lived. 2007 taught me those are good things.
Getting your blood drawn to run lab work can feel like taking your car into the mechanic. Most of us don’t know a lot about it. What is really going on in there? What absolutely must be inspected? The tests have complicated names and do they tell you what is good, bad, or what to do next to stay healthy?
Over the last two decades managed care has developed a system of whittling down lab work such that yearly physicals may include little if any, and serious health issues go undetected until damage is done. The reality is that regular monitoring of lab work and life style changes subsequent to those results, go a long way in heading off the possibility of future disease development. So do you want to know if your gears are not shifting smoothly or your brake pads are wearing before a crash or no?
Here are two tests to consider having drawn at least once per year. Do make it practice to keep your own file with copies of your lab works. When your health care practitioners have the ability to view your lab results over spans of time it is invaluable.
Homocysteine (abbreviated tHcy or HCY) Homocysteine is an amino acid which if elevated is associated with: •Higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease. •Higher risk for developing blood clots. •Increased risk for pregnancy complications, miscarriage & fetal growth problems. •Reduced cognitive functioning in the elderly.
What helps reduce Homocysteine levels? Supplementing with B Vitamins including: Folic acid, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxines) and Vitamin B12 (cobalamins). Dietary sources of Vitamin B12 are animal based: fish, mussels, clams, lamb, and beef. Dietary sources of Vitamin B6 as well as the other B Vitamins are: kombucha, whole, grains, potatoes, bananas, lentils, chili peppers, tempeh, beans, nutritional and brewer’s yeasts, and molasses.
High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (abbreviated hs-CRP) High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) measures inflammation in the body. For someone fighting off an infection, with a significant illness, or recovering from a surgery or trauma, we would expect the hs-CRP to naturally be elevated. After healing, the hs-CRP is typically no longer detectable in the bloodstream. However inflammation can also be associated with more silent cardiovascular developments. It is widely accepted that predisposition to developing heart attacks and cardiovascular disease is associated with generalized inflammation in the blood vessels. Are you in a higher risk group for inflammation? Here are some important questions: Do you smoke? Do you have high blood pressure? Do you have high cholesterol? Are you diabetic? Are you overweight? Are you physically inactive?
If you are answering yes to any of the above, you are in a high-risk category so having a High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein assessed regularly is a good idea. If your hs-CRP is elevated, there are sundry lifestyle, dietary and supplemental practices you can employ to reduce inflammation in your system and thereby lower your risk for a future cardiac event.
Sometimes managed care sources are reluctant or refuse to draw lab markers key to thoroughly monitoring your health. However these days many reduced fee labs exist and provide options for consumers to have blood works drawn at greatly reduced rates. Depending upon the state in which you live, you can also access allied licensed health care practitioners such as Nurse Practitioners and Acupuncturists to order labs and help you manage and effectively monitor your health.
We all know that our cars run better and risk less by changing the oil, right? So check your oil, that blood the flowing through your body, to make sure your engine is in top condition.
Menopause vs. Adrenal-pause
11.04.2011 Did you know that the severity of Peri-menopause & Menopause is related to adrenal health? Healthy adrenals act as the reserve for hormone production when your ovaries slow down. Many women enter Menopause with tired adrenals. Exhausted adrenals cannot function as nature’s back up.
Radiation Protection Formula & Supplements
17.03.2011 It is with deep sympathy that I’m writing to address the tragic events of last week’s earthquake and tsunami in Japan. May we all take time to pray for and send compassionate thoughts to our fellow humans who are courageously facing this disaster. With the problems at their nuclear reactive site and the media reports of radioactive material potentially riding the jet stream to our shores, I’ve received dozens of emails from colleagues and patients inquiring as to what can be done to protect ourselves should radioactive dust make its way to our area. With her permission I’d like to share the following document prepared by Dr. Melissa Patterson about supplements that can be taken as precautionary measures. I have available the following items for patients wishing to create an emergency kit: 1. a Chinese herbal tincture formula that includes many of the items listed below, including mushroom, seaweed, astragalus and ginseng, all of which are Chinese herbs, as well as other ingredients to stimulate immune response, repair mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, sequester/chelate metalic isotopes and radionuclides, protect liver and hepatic detox, enhance kidney unction, reduce inflammation and protect cardiovascular system. Note: ingredients in this formula are contraindicated for people with autoimmune conditions or who are taking immunosuppressive therapies. It mildly potentiates anti-clossing medications, and enhances CNS effects of barbituates. It is safe during pregnancy and lactation. 2. Ten Mushroom Formula 3. OxyPro – antioxidant capsules containing vitamins A/C/E/selenium/glutathione 4. OxiCell – topical gluathione for application to neck & throat Please contact me at 415-381-8500, extension 3 or by email at sfox@balancerestored.com for more information. ——————————————————————————————————————————- Supplements Shown to Help Prevent Effects of Radiation Fall-Out: The research was specifically done for Plutonium 239 and Cesium 137 (the two radioactive substances released from the nuclear facilities in Japan.) Information gathered by Dr. Melissa Patterson, ND Contact information: 707-829-8137, drmpatterson@gmail.com The following supplements have been shown through research to be effective in decreasing the detrimental effects of radiation on the body. There is a lot of information here. If you only want to do a few supplements I recommend sticking with the supplements of the first half of the document, they have been the best researched. The dosages given are what is determined safe to an average adult. If you are breastfeeding, pregnant or want to give the supplements to a child please do further research to see if they are safe for you or your child and what the specific dose would be. Also, if you are sensitive please stick to the lower dosage. Lastly, some supplements are recommended to take in higher dosages after exposure. IF you choose to do this, please note that some side effects might occur with some of the supplements. Please do further research on what you are taking before you take the maximum dose. If you have any serious illness or are on medications please talk to your healthcare provider to get more detailed information if these supplements are safe for you! The following are supplements that I recommend to start taking now (to help your body prepare preemptively for radiation), they are also relatively inexpensive and locally available: Reishi Mushroom: Offers protection against ionizing radiation. Normal Dose: 400 mg. take 2 caps up to 3 x-day (take up to 3x-dayhigher if have been exposed to radiation Holy Basil (also known as Tulsi): Preliminary research shows evidence for Holy Basil in protection against radiation-induced peroxidation, thus helping to protect against the detrimental effects of low-level radiation. It also increases glutathione and superoxide dismutase (important mediators in the liver in helping the body deal with radiation.) Tincture (1:5 or 1:2): 40–60 drops, three times per day. Tea: Add 1 tsp. dried leaf to 8 oz. hot water, steep, covered, 5–10 minutes. Take 4 oz. up to three times per day. Capsules: Various forms of capsulated products are available. These include extracts in gelcaps, dried or powdered herb in capsules, and standardized extracts (2 percent ursolic acid) in capsules. Vitamin E: It can provide internal and external protection against cesium-137 which is a common component of fallout (and a component in the fallout specifically from Japan.) For the form of E d-alpha-tocopherol, an adult weighting about 155 would need about 900 IU per day. Up to 1600 IU if exposed to radiation. E also helps prevent the destruction of Vitamin A and fatty acids by massive doses of x-rays. If large doses of C, B and E are taken before exposure, the terrible symptoms of radiation sickness can be reduced or eliminated to a large degree. Caution: E should be Rutin: (Rutin is a bioflavanoid and can also be found in lower doses in vitamin c with bioflavanoids) A glucoside found in buckwheat can help protect the body from the effects of radiation. It strengthens the capillary walls and reduces hemorrhaging caused by x-rays. In animal studies reduced the death rate caused by excessive x-rays by 800 per cent. Dose: 100 to 200 mg a day as protective dose. If exposed, 800 mg. or more a day. It is harmless. Vitamin C with bioflavanoids: Protects against intercellular damage from radiation. VERY IMPORTANT supplement in decreasing side effects from radiation. Normal dose: 2-5 grams…but can take up to bowel tolerance (i.e. when you start having diarrhea back off 500 mg.) Selenium: Protects DNA from radiation damage and helps prevent damage to the skin surface, too. Get plenty of selenium by eating a daily dose of 2 cups/500 ml of nettle infusion, one-half ounce/15 g kelp, 2 ounces/60 g cooked burdock root, or 1 cup/250 ml organic yogurt daily. Shellfish, green and black teas, and garlic contain significant amounts of selenium, as do many mushrooms. The best sources however are nettles (2200 mcg per 100 grams), kelp (1700 mcg/100 g), burdock (1400 mcg/100 g), catnip (Nepeta cataria), ginseng, eleuthero (aka Siberian ginseng), and astragalus. Burdock root (Arctium lappa): Removes radioactive isotopes from the body. A dose is 1-4 ounces/300-120 grams of cooked fresh root, up to a pint of infusion daily, or several large spoonfuls of vinegar (but only if made with fresh roots.) B-Complex: Many B-Vitamins (especially pantothenic acid) help to decrease the effects of radiation. One of its many functions is that they normalize the red and white blood cell count, because the destruction of white blood cells by radiation can last for extended periods of time. The various B vitamins have different effects and should be taken together. Take recommended dose on bottle Vitamin A: In 1974, researchers from India found that vitamin A, when taken internally by humans, hastened recovery from radiation. In 1984, Dr. Eli Seifter and a team of researchers fro the Albert Einstein College of Medicine….reported vitamin A and beta-carotene counteracted both partial and total body gamma radiation. It also improved the healing of wounds; reduced weight loss, thymic and splenic atrophy, and adrenal enlargement; and prevented gastro-ulceration and an abnormal decrease in red and white blood cell formation. (For therapeutic purposes, 25,000 to 35,000 IU are recommended for adults. During emergencies or crisis situations, intensive exposure may warrant higher amounts, but can be toxic if taken too much over a long period of time can also be toxic to pregnant woman and their babies.) Eleuthero (aka Siberian Ginseng): Helps protects against the side effects of radiation exposure. Recommended dose: 500-3000 mg. in capsule form The following are supplements that are highly recommended but are either a little more expensive or are harder to locate: Laminaria Japonica: Probably the most important seaweed in helping decrease radiation our of the body. The secret weapon of Russian doctors that saved thousands of innocent people from disease after nuclear fallout. Hard to find locally: Dose: 1500 mg/day NOTE: if you do not take Laminaria, please do yourself a favor and take seaweed. There is more information on this at the end of the article. Beta-1,3 Glucan: In a controlled study done at the US Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute, 70% of rats given a lethal dose of radiation were completely protected from radiation effects when given a dose of yeast beta glucan by mouth after the radiation exposure. Beta glucan is a free radical scavenger. It is able to protect blood macrophages from free radical attack during and after the radiation allowing these cells to continue to function in the irradiated body and release factors important to the restoration of normal bone marrow production. Normal dosage: 500 mg cap/1x-day Note: this is very expensive, but worth…also reishi mushroom is high in Beta 1,3 Glucan if you just want to take that. What to do if you know (or think) that you have been exposed: Take Potassium Iodide as soon as you can: This is a VERY IMPORTANT supplement that helps decrease the chance of plutonium or cesium being metabolized in your body as potassium and severely effecting the health of your thyroid. Because it is such an important supplement I recommend: IOSAT only FDA approved potassium iodide that is in sealed containers. Can find online Adults take 130 mg. per immediately after exposure (or as soon as you possibly can.) If not an adult see CDC recommendations. Do not take if not exposed and take as little as possible, i.e. only when you know that you have been exposed. Continue taking the supplements in the section above! Cilantro Herb: Natural heavy metal chelator (i.e. plutonium and cesium are heavy metals.) Therefore, helps to eliminate them out of the body Dose: Take 1-3 dropperfuls daily of tincture. Available at Farmacopia OR eat large amounts of cilantro Oil: ½ cup of any cold pressed oil (extra virgin olive oil is preferred) if you are exposed will help protect the cell membranes. Bentonite Clay: Helps to eradicate toxins radiation/toxins. It is generally advisable to start with 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay daily, mixed with a small amount of juice. Pay attention to the results for a week, then gradually increase the dosage to no more than 4 tablespoons daily, in divided doses. Make sure you drink plenty of chlorine-free water throughout the day. You can also use other forms of edible clay such as French green clay. Sea Salt and Baking Soda Baths: Add 1 pound of sea salt and 1 pound of baking soda and soak in chlorine-free water for 20 minutes. Then rinse with cool water. You can also 1 pound of betonite, or other clay, to the sea salt and baking soda when soaking which increases the removal of radiation. Some specialists who work with radioactive isotopes use this method to remove radiation from their body. If you have been exposed to an abnormal high level of radiation you can use this method three times a week for one month. Other supplements that are helpful (and important to take if you know…or think…that you have been exposed.) DMSO: good for preventing cell nicking from ionizing radiation Normal dose: 5-10 ml per day Milk Thistle Herb: Helps the liver deal with the effects of toxicity of radiation poisoning. Take: 1-3 dropperfuls of tincture per day. Calcium (1000 mg.) and Magnesium 500 mg Helps to eliminate radioactive isotopes that get lodged in the bones Melatonin: Helps protect the brain against radiation. Normal dose: 1-2 mg. NOTE: only take at night! Lecithin: Helps protect the cell membrane Normal dose: 2-3 tbsp. a day Chlorophyll: A number of studies found that chlorophyll-rich foods can decrease radiation toxicity. Spirulina and chlorella are two micro-algae that are rich in this substance, as are leafy greens, celery, parsley, the sprouts of any grain or bean, the young shoots of any edible grass, such as wheat and barley, and sunflower greens. Chlorophyll is similar in structure to hemoglobin. Guinea pigs on a diet rich in chlorophyll showed increased resistance to lethal X-rays. Organic Alfalfa is a good source of natural chlorophyl. Seaweeds: (Note: if you are just going to do one seaweed I would recommend laminaria japonica see above.) Also called sea vegetables, are not only a great natural source of nutrients they are very effective at removing radiation from the body as they contain sodium alginate. There are literally thousands of different types of seaweeds but some of the most popular are arame, wakame, kombu, hijiki, bladderwrack, rockweed, sea lettuce, and dulse. You can find them in your local health food store and various oriental grocery stores in your neighborhood in their natural form, or in flakes, flat sheets, and powders. They can be mixed in soups and salads, or eaten by themselves. If you don’t like the taste of seaweeds, or you want something more convenient you can find various seaweed supplements in capsules or tablets. One high quality seaweed supplement made with four organic seaweeds in a capsule is Sea Treasure™ by RegalLife™. It also contains organic alfalfa which is also found to be beneficial at removing radiation becomes of its rich chlorophyll content. The Atomic Energy Commission recommends for maximum protection against radioactive poisoning for humans, taking a minimum of 2 to 3 ounces of sea vegetables a week or 10 grams (two tablespoons) a day of sodium alginate supplements. During or after exposure to radiation, the dosage should be increased to two full tablespoons of alginate four times daily to insure that there is a continual supply in the GI or gastrointestinal tract. There may be a rare problem of constipation but this can be avoided if the sodium alginate is made into a fruit gelatin. Agar, derived from sodium alginate in kelp, is a safe, nontoxic substance that can be used as a thickening agent or gelatin. Sea vegetables are also high in natural iodine. However, I recommend sticking to the potassium iodide listed at the beginning of the article. Miso: has been used to treat radiation sicknesss. It is a traditional Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting rice, barley and/or soybeans, with salt and the fungus kojikin, the most typical miso being made with soy. The result is a thick paste used for sauces and spreads, pickling vegetables or meats, and mixing with dashi soup stock to serve as miso soup called Misoshiru, a Japanese culinary staple. High in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, miso played an important nutritional role in feudal Japan. Miso is still very widely used in Japan, both in traditional and modern cooking, and has been gaining world-wide interest. Miso is typically salty, but its flavor and aroma depend on various factors in the ingredients and fermentation process. Different varieties of miso have been described as salty, sweet, earthy, fruity, and savory, and there is an extremely wide variety of miso available. Other Foods that help the body decrease the effects of radiation: garlic, onions, beets, kale, brewer’s yeast/nutritional yeast, green tea/black tea, brussel sprouts, brocolli, cabbage, watercress, apples, guavas, quince, plums, gooseberries, oranges and other citrus fruits pineapple, seaweed (see above) *Note many sources were used to gather this information. Because of the timeliness of the issue and wanting to get it out to the community ASAP I have not listed an extensive bibliography here. However, the following sources helped the most: “Fighting Radiation and Chemical Pollutants with Foods, Herbs and Vitamins” by Steven R. Schechter, N.D I pray that this information helps to serve your body in the highest way possible. May those who are suffering from this catastrophe find peace!
Pertussis and your child’s immunity
11.11.2010
Pertussis and boosting your child’s immunities
As the outbreaks of Pertussis have been escalating, moms are expressing understandable concern. Many have been asking me questions about vaccines, how to stay healthy and ways to be proactive for their kids. I am an Acupuncturist/Chinese herbalist and RN located in Mill Valley and family medicine is a large part of my practice. This article is intended to give you valuable information about Pertussis and supporting healthy immune systems.
As of June 2010 the state of California declared Pertussis an epidemic. Epidemic simply means that there are many more cases across California compared to this time frame in years past. Rather than getting caught up in fear of exposure or of illness, it is wise to keep in mind that we have many health-promoting options readily at our fingertips. The reality is that our immune systems are made to keep us well, and I want to share some tools toward that goal.
Facts about Pertussis
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection. It is highly contagious and spread through contact or respiratory droplets, which hang in the air from an infected person. Droplets generally can be found in a 6-foot radius of a coughing or sneezing event. Pertussis typically begins as a runny nose, which evolves into a spasmodic cough. The cough is strong, such that it can induce vomiting and rib soreness.
Pertussis can be fatal in infants. If you have a baby in your home, I believe it wise for the whole family to be vaccinated. I do realize that some families opt against vaccinations, and if that is your choice, you’ll find additional helpful tips below too.
As a parent you are likely familiar with the Td vaccine for tetanus and diphtheria. It is part of standard childhood vaccination schedules. Pertussis, a separate vaccine, has historically been given to children less than 7 years old. However in 2004 there was a spike in adolescents and adults developing Pertussis such that the Tdap vaccine was developed.
In 2005 the Tdap vaccine became available and was the first vaccine for adolescents and adults to protect against: tetanus, diphtheria and Pertussis. At this time Tdap is licensed for a once in a lifetime dose per person, whereas Td is given every 10 years or possibly repeated following a serious wounds or injuries. Health care workers in California are currently being encouraged to get Tdap vaccinated and facilities are offering the vaccine to employees.
What else can you do?
•Consider a consultation for homeopathic remedies. I find these to be highly effective, safe and economical options and routinely prescribe them. Remedies are tasteless, can be used by both children and adults, and can be taken alone or in conjunction with conventional vaccinations. There are combination remedies available, which address Pertussis, 2011 Flu, H1N1, and Childhood Immunization Support. •Take care of your own immunities with an Acupuncture Immunity Booster appointment. A 30-minute treatment once per month September through January will help keep your immune system in optimal shape through flu season. •For kids who frequently develop colds or ear infections, give a supplement of organic bovine colostrum (powdered capsules can be opened and added to foods) one capsule twice each day. •Consider Chinese herbs for immune system enhancement. Both herbs and acupuncture have been shown to boost the activity of white blood cells and lower stress hormones, all of which improve your immunities. •To resolve acute illnesses quickly: Vitamin C 500-1000mg/day Vitamin A 10,000-20,000 units from fish oil; Sambucol 1 teaspoon 3 times/day Echinacea (non alcoholic) 10-20 drops 3 times/day. Karen Reynolds specializes in fertility and family practice in Mill Valley, CA. Drawing from 22 years as an ICU RN, she makes use of lab testing, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and nutritional supplementation to optimize health.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact her at: Balance Restored Center for Integrative Medicine 600 Miller Avenue Mill Valley, CA 94941 Ring: 415.381.8500 Ext. 4
Come meet one of the authors of The Fertile Kitchen Cookbook and learn about optimizing your health and fertility. Enjoy sample foods from the book’s recipe collection and get your copy signed! All of my fertility patients get this book free; so if you’ve not gotten yours, give me a buzz! When:Saturday December 11th @ 1PM Where:Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera, CA
Nutrition, Inflammation & Fertility
01.11.2010  Anne Cabrinha, L.Ac. & Willie Victor, Nutrition Consultant Anne Cabrinha, M.S., L.Ac. at Balance Restored Center for Integrative Medicine interviews Willie Victor, Nutrition Consultant at Essentials for Health in Mill Valley, CA.
Acupuncture and IVF
25.10.2010 This post was authored for the Fertile Kitchen website and I’m sharing it here as well! For more information on nutrition for enhancing fertility, I highly recommend http://fertilekitchen.com/ and co-authors, Cindy Bailey and Pierre Giauque of the The Fertile Kitchen Cookbook. This book is an integral part of my program for all of my fertility patients As an acupuncturist and herbalist in Mill Valley, CA specializing in fertility, I often receive questions about how acupuncture helps women struggling with infertility. Recent research shows that women undergoing fertility treatment who receive acupuncture have improved reproductive outcomes. In the last 14 years, there have been many publications and studies on acupuncture in scientific, peer-reviewed journals. Two of the best-known studies were done in 1996 by Stener-Victorin and then by Paulus, et al in 2002. The Paulus study showed that In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) patients treated before and after embryo transfer demonstrated improved pregnancy outcomes. Since 2003 the acupuncturist, Diane K. Cridennda, and reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Paul C. Magarelli, MD, PhD have conducted 5studies combining acupuncture and ART (Assisted Reproductive Techniques). Their amazing research shows that with acupuncture, poor prognosis patients are more likely to fall pregnant, have lower miscarriage rates, fewer ectopic pregnancies, fewer multiple pregnancies, and more take-home babies than without acupuncture. The research also shows that women have a greater sense of active control and involvement by adding acupuncture to their ART. Acupuncture will add an estimated 15% more pregnancies to an IVF series, which can make the difference in couple creating a family. Reducing miscarriages, ectopics and multiples is precious to a woman’s health and reduces health care costs and risks. We know that acupuncture improves how the brain communicates with the reproductive organs and we also know it helps regulate stress hormones and induces relaxation. Acupuncture also increases nutrients and blood flow to the uterus and helps to balance hormones. All these elements are important to conception. I do hope that providing some insight into the research and science behind using acupuncture in conjunction with ART has been helpful. In my practice women consistently share with me that acupuncture helps them weather the side effects of IVF medications more easily, calms their mind and spirit, and gives them a sense of well-being amid what is a storm in life when falling pregnant is a challenge. Karen Reynolds specializes in the treatment of both male and female fertility, women’s health, and functional endocrinology. Drawing from her 22 years of experience as an ICU RN, she makes extensive use of lab testing, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, antioxidants, dietary changes and nutritional supplementation to optimize health, wellness and vitality for the amazing women and men who she has the great honor to treat. If you have questions, please feel free to contact her at:kreynolds@balancerestored.com or at 415.381.8500 Ext. 4. |
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