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Top Stories 27th
Annual Convention (7/25/08)
Convention
Lecture Legislation Journal
of the American Naturopathic Medical Association (JANMA) Facts |
Florida Naturopathic Medical Association Has Been Established Profile of An "American Board Certified Naturopath" 10% OFF Budget Rent A Car For ANMA Members Fresh Echinacea Extract Reduces Common Cold Symptoms
To advertise in the ANMA Monitor or ANMA MONITOR ONLINE
FROM THE PRESIDENT By: Dr. Charles E. Curtis
ANMA has exceeded all expectations. With the tremendous success that we’ve experienced, nothing pleases me more than to invite you and encourage your presence at our 19th annual convention. The genuine international flavor of ANMA is again reflected by representatives from practically every state of the union and many foreign countries including South America, England, Canada, Puerto Rico, and India. ANMA enjoys world wide support, having received and maintained the recognition of the "World Organization for Alternative Medicine" since 1990. You should feel proud to be a part of America’s largest and most active naturopathic association for natural health practitioners. ANMA has made great gains in protecting the rights of naturopathic doctors. Because of our success in the legislative arena , people are becoming more willing to accept the services of a Naturopath. New opportunities have come to ANMA from both traditional and non-traditional colleges and universities, to design and approve programs that can be incorporated along with the general and alternative medical curricula. As this convention goes forward we must all realize our success is in organization and numbers, all working for a common goal. I want to give special recognition to the staff at ANMA for doing such a superb job, having worked tirelessly to insure the success of each annual convention. Their dedication has ensured the smooth operation for the continued growth of ANMA. I want also, to thank all the state presidents of our constituent organizations for working so hard for the good of the association. Without your efforts ANMA would not have survived the troubled times. There is still much to do to continue the momentum. We ask that you continue your dedicated support and encourage your colleagues to join ANMA. Finally, I wish to thank those graduates of National and Bastyr College for joining with the ANMA. It is only through unity, cohesiveness, hard work, dedication, and a non-discriminating policy that the naturopathic profession can progress to its rightful place in the health care of the American people. The time is now. The place is right here with ANMA.
Systemic Mycoses: A
Naturopathic Overview, By: Robert J Thiel, Ph.D., Naturopath
ABSTRACT Systemic mycoses are a growing problem. Understanding the various types can be helpful for health practitioners who are interested in natural interventions to help restore their infected patients back to health. This second part of a two-part article discusses selected forms of systemic mycoses, as well as naturopathic interventions the investigator has had clinical success with.
INTRODUCTION As mentioned in the first part of this series, there are over 100,000 different species of fungi of which approximately 150 are known to be pathogenic to humans [1,2]. Those which are pathogenic have been classified into three broad categories: superficial, cutaneous, and systemic. Superficial mycoses normally are confined to the keratinized layer of the skin and its appendages [3]. Cutaneous/subcutaneous mycoses enter the skin and cutaneous tissue usually in a traumatized area (such as a wound); they usually remain localized, but can spread through the lymphatics to other sites. Systemic mycoses are medically believed to usually have a pulmonary inception, but can affect most areas of the body [1,4,5]. Systemic mycoses are saprocyctes that are usually innocuous, but become pathogenic when the host becomes abnormally susceptible to infection [1,5,6]. During the past 25 years there have been alarming increases in them [1,6,7]. Systemic mycoses can cause a tremendous variety of health problems including digestive difficulties (diarrhea, bloating, discomfort, flatulence, constipation, etc.), skin problems (rashes, dry skin patches, itching, etc.), bronchopulmonary disorders, fatigue, allergies, weight loss, fever, chills, malaise, and depression [1,5-9]; some of them may be risk factors in developing autoimmune disorders [10]. Medical interventions for systemic mycoses include various medications, surgery, and chemotherapy [1,5,6,11]. Progress in the diagnosis and medical treatment of many mycoses has been unsatisfactory [12]. Although there exists a tremendous amount of natural health literature regarding interventions to be considered for people with an overgrowth of Candida albicans [i.e. 13-22], the literature regarding natural interventions for other mycotic organisms is less available. The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the natural interventions that this investigator has found helpful, in vivo. NATURAL INTERVENTIONS This section will discuss information on other commercially available natural interventions. Although independent scientific citations will be used when available, monographs and other data will be used to give possible efficacy for natural interventions if peer-reviewed scientific citations are not available. Specific brands are sometimes mentioned, as this is what this investigator has used (no company has paid the investigator to have them included). Other brands with similar ingredients will probably give similar results. Biotin Biotin is a water soluble vitamin and is found in many yeasts [23]. It sometimes seems to be helpful when Candida tropicalis, Rhizipus oryzae, or the superficial Trichophyton rubric is present. It may be of benefit because it is consumed by intestinal bacteria [23] and may have a "probiotic" [19,20] effect. It also may be helpful because biotin enzymes are involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and some amino acid residues [24]. The involvement as a co-factor in essential fatty acid metabolism seems to help the body defend against some microbes [25]. It has been claimed that biotin might work by preventing yeast from getting to a state that allows it to form tendrils [15]. A symptom that indicates that biotin may be helpful is complaints of patches of dry skin--Candida albicans can contribute to the dermatitis of biotin deficiency [26]; biotin has long been recommended by natural health professionals when dry skin is present [27]. Most take 600-1500mcg per day. Citricidal Citricidal by bio/chem Research is a liquid grapefruit seed and pulp extract. The manufacturer reports find that using certain minimum concentrations (from 10ppm to 600pm) in-vitro is effective to inhibit various yeasts and fungi. Specifically MICs (minimum inhibitory concentrations in-vitro) reported are: Aspergillus niger 600ppm, Aspergillus fumigus 200ppm, Candida albicans 60ppm, Epidermophyton floccusum 200ppm, Keratinomyces ajelloi 200ppm, Monila albicans 10ppm, Saccharomyces cerevisiae 60ppm, Trichophyton mentagrophytes 20ppm, Trichophyton rubrum 200ppm, and Trichophyton tonsurans 200ppm [20]. This investigator’s clinical experience is that sometimes this product helps people with mycoses and sometimes it does not. Most complain about the taste, but when diluted in enough citrus juice, most will tolerate it; it has also become available in tablet form. "CITRICIDAL is environmentally safe with a low toxicity to man and animals. Studies indicate that the antimicrobial activity of CITRICIDAL is in the cytoplasmic membrane where the uptake of amino acids is prevented and disorganization of the cytoplasmic membrane and leakage of low molecular weight cellular contents"[20]. One study found that it seems to inhibit growth of many systemic mycoses [21]. Colostrum Bovine colostrum appears to be indicated for some with stubborn mycotic infections. It may be because it contains IgA or because of other immune building factors [28]. It also appears to have somewhat of a probiotic effect [28,29] and has reportedly been helpful for some with ‘leaky gut syndrome’ [30]. Research suggests that colostrum’s leukocytes can be helpful in controlling infection with Candida albicans [29]. Sometimes (but by no means all the time), some who cannot tolerate dairy can still take colostrum for its immune enhancing properties. While it does not appear to be universally helpful for people with mycotic infections (and may be contraindicated), it can aid in some of the more stubborn cases. Con-Lyph Con-Lyph by Nutri-West was developed to help provide immune system support [17]. It is commonly taken by people with infections caused by various streptococci. This investigator has found it to be helpful when nocardiosis or actinomycosis is suspected. It contains lypholized bovine glandulars, herbs (such as shitake mushrooms), and other nutrients. Bovine glandulars have been shown to nourish the specific gland that they provide [31,32] and oral supplementation with bovine thymus has been shown to increase t-lymphocytes in humans [33]. Shiitake mushrooms supply lentinan, a water soluble beta-1,3 glucan polysaccharide which has been reported to enhance helper t-lymphocyte function, natural killer cell activity, and macrophages [34]. People usually take 3 to 6 tablets per day. Dioxychlor Dioxychlor by American Biologics is supplied in liquid form and contains a substance consisting of two oxygen atoms bound, not to each other, but to a third atom of chlorine. "This makes possible the release of the highly active form (of oxygen), nascent oxygen" [22]. It is similar in this respect to ozone and hydrogen peroxide. Chitin is one of the components of the fungal cell wall [6] and "Dioxychlor is slightly cytotoxic to Candida by inhibiting (1) the process whereby new cells are sealed by chitin during reproduction, during budding and (2) the formation of new tubes (mycelia) and internal cell walls during growth of the mycelial form" [22]. It is claimed to be effective in "even minute doses (1 to 5ppm)" against a wide range of fungi [35]. It is claimed to be effective against the mycelial form (or M-form) of Candida, but not so against the oval form (or Y-form) of Candida [35]. It is believed by some that the Y-form is not pathogenic to humans, but the M-form is [21,22]. This investigator seems to recommend it most frequently when Candida tropicalis or other non-albicans forms of Candida are indicated. Most people take 10-30 drops per day. Electrical Stimulation Although electrical stimulations have long been used by natural health practitioners [36], they have become a bit more popular since the publication of The Cure for All Diseases by Dr. Hulda Clark [37]. Articles about her "zapper" and similar devices have been published in the non-medical press . These articles suggest that the use of such devices is lethal to a variety of microbes include systemic mycoses [37-39]. One published study found that electrical stimulation may make the cell wall more permeable so that nutrients provided through diet and supplementation may be more absorbable [40] An experimental study performed by this investigator found, when combined with nutritional interventions, the use of a zapping unit substantially helped 39.6% with a systemic mycoses and minimally helped the rest (60.4%) [41]. It may be that the use of electrical current somehow increases nutrient absorption [40,41], IgG response, or may mimic some of the body’s electrical signals [41,42]. Subjects normally hold the device for approximately 7 to 15 minutes with a 10 to 20 minute gap, then resume for a total of three rounds. Some people have instant results, but for most, its efficacy is not quickly apparent. Herbal Formulas There are many formulas which contain substances often mentioned by natural health practitioners as helpful for Candida albicans [13-16] such as caprylic acid, citrus seed extract, n-acetylglucosamine, molybdenum, manganese, lacto bacillus bulgaricus, lactobacillus bifidus, pau d’arco, thyme, basil, goldenseal root, cloves, aloe vera, beet root, cinnamon, garlic, and oregano oil: normally subjects take tablets orally with meals. The lactobacilli help restore intestinal flora [18,19], caprylic acid appears to decrease IgG antibodies [53], garlic may increase natural killer cells [44], citrus seed extract appears to prevent the uptake of amino acids in the cytoplasmic membrane and cause leakage of low weight cellular contents [20], N-acetylglucosamine appears to be necessary for a portion of macrophage activation [45], molybdenum is a cofactor in detoxification [46] and acts as an anti-acetaldehyde nutrient [14], manganese can stimulate macrophage activity [47], pau d’ arco contains lapachol and xylodine which may be lethal to Candida albicans [48], and aloe vera has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans [49]. It is believed that the synergistic effects of the ingredients is effective in helping people recover from a variety of fungal infections. This investigator tends to recommend this type of combination most often when Candida albicans is suspected or present (such as when presented with vaginal yeast infections, though that is not a required sign). Most people follow label instructions. Homeopathy/Isopathy Homeopathic and isopathic remedies are often tried by people looking for natural interventions for various mycoses. Homeopathic remedies are based on the "law of similars" (like heals like) and are intended to stimulate the body to heal itself [50]. A variety of remedies are used for this purpose. In the case of "constitutional" homeopathic remedies (most of which are herbs or minerals referred to by their Latin name), the precise remedy is determined by careful assessment of symptoms. Since this is difficult, most lay people (and many health practitioners) rely on combination remedies which include a variety of remedies. Some of the most commonly used remedies (which are sometimes combined) are Astralagalus Campertris, Condurango, Echinacea Purpurea, Lycopodium Clavatum, Nux Vomica, Phosphorus, Phosphoricum Acidum, Phytolacca Decandra, Pulsatilla, Sepia, and Sticta Pulmonaria. For a complete symptomatic picture for each, please refer to a comprehensive homeopathic materia medica [e.g. 51]. Isopathic remedies are similar to homeopathic ones, in that they are dilutions that are intended to stimulate the body to heal itself. They differ from homeopathic remedies, because normally the subject takes a dilution of the particular substance (in this case some systemic mycoses) that is affecting them negatively. When isopathics are used for various diseases, they can be considered to be "nosodes" [50]. The most common remedies available for people with systemic mycoses include Aspergillus Flavus, A. Fumigatus, A. Glaucus, A. Niger, A. Terreus, Candida Albicans, C. Parapsilosis, C. Tropicalis, Cryptococcus (various), and Rhizopus (various). Many companies combine homeopathic and isopathic remedies into their formulas for people with systemic mycoses. Man-Aloe (Ambrotose with Lecithin) Formerly known as Man-Aloe and now renamed as Ambrotose with Lecithin by Mannatech can sometimes be helpful for some people who have multiple mycotic infections. It contains polymannans in a aloe vera gel, along with a proprietary complex containing eight monosaccharides (galactose, glucose, mannose, N-acetylneuraminic acid, fucose, N-acetylgalactosamine, N-acetylglucosamine, and xylose) in soy lecithin. Aloe vera has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans [49]. Aloe vera even contains some peroxide which has been reported to have efficacy against candidiasis [52]. The eight monosaccharides are essential for the formation of glycoproteins responsible for cell to cell communications [53,54], but several can be foods for various mycoses [2]. Mannose compounds may have effectiveness when deep-tissues are invaded by Candida albicans [55,56]; mannose compounds also appear to have positive effects on enhancing immune system response [57]. N-acetylglucosamine appears to be necessary for a portion of macrophage activation [45]. It is also possible that by ingesting these monosaccharides (some of which can be produced by yeast) that there is decreased tolerance in the body for yeast to remain, and hence their ingestion may lead to some type of immune response. Most people take between 2 - 6 capsules per day. Olive Leaf Olive leaf formulas helps some who suffer from mycotic infections. Olive is considered to be a general microbial [58]. Specific reports include its effectiveness on Candida albicans and Candida krusei [59]. It has also been reported that olive leaf extract can kill so much yeast that it can overwhelm the body’s eliminative capacity [59]--this can happen with other natural interventions as well, thus it rarely makes sense to take too much of any specific natural substance. Several companies, such as Nature’s Sunshine make a olive leaf extract standardized at 12% oleuropein; most people take 2-4 capsules daily. Oxygen Therapies Oxygen therapies are sometimes helpful [52]. These interventions can include food grade hydrogen peroxide, ozone, or complexes such as Dioxchlor (previously discussed) or Stabilized Oxygen by Water Oz. These interventions are based on the premise that since systemic fungi are of the plant, as opposed to animal, kingdom that direct contact with oxygen can be lethal. While some feel that food grade hydrogen peroxide is directly helpful [37,52,60], it may not be strong enough when yeast infections affect the mouth [37]. At least one type of phagocyte disorder reduces production of hydrogen peroxide and increases the risk of Aspergillosis [28], thus this suggests some possible efficacy for its ingestion. Highly diluted, it has been reported to clean the vaginal tract of women with candidiasis [52], though this investigator has no clinical experience recommending it that way. Most use of direct ozone interventions is done outside the U.S. [52], thus this investigator does not have extensive clinical experience with many of them. Stabilized Oxygen from Water Oz is somewhat similar to Dioxychlor by American Biologics. It supplies sodium chlorite drops as first discovered in 1929. It is highly alkaline (pH 12-13) which makes it appealing for use when Zygomycetic organisms are suspected. It is a "`liquid concentrate of electrolytes’, that are made available to your body in a molecular form which are released upon contact with stomach acid" [61]. The chlorite molecule is believed to be used as a substrate for a variety of enzymes that improve cell oxidation [61]. The manufacturer believes that it is more "stable" than hydrogen peroxide since instead of releasing gas in the stomach it releases molecular oxygen [61]. This investigator has found that 10-20 drops three times per day can be helpful for people with fairly entrenched mycotic infections. Since many systemic mycoses enter the body through the respiratory tract it may make sense to remove them from the air of some people. Ozone based air filtration systems may be able to do this [52]. A study performed by Twin City Testing found that 99% of Candida albicans and 66% of Aspergillus niger were removed from the air within 4 hours of use [62]. Although this investigator’s clinical experience is insufficient to determine if these type of units actually reduce the incidence or duration of infection by systemic mycoses, it seems logical that they should be considered as a possible intervention when systemic mycoses are present. Probiotics and Fructo-Oligosaccharides Some products contain combinations lacto bifidus acidophilus and fructo-oligosaccharides with pysillum husk and oat bran. At least one company recommends it to cleanse "intestinal toxicity" from a variety of causes [63]. Lacto bifidus acidophilus has a "probiotic effect" [18,19], as do fructo-oligosaccharides [64]. Specifically, oligosaccharides stimulate the growth of lactic acid producing bacteria [65] which help metabolize ingested chemicals and other toxins in the digestive tract [64]. Pysillum husk and oat bran are excellent sources of dietary fiber [66,67]. Pysllium and oat bran have been shown to be able to reduce plasma cholesterol [67]. It is of interest to note that combining a cholesterol lowering medication (fluvastatin) with medications for the treatment of Candidia species (flucanazole) and Cryptococcus neoformans (itraconazole) had "both synergistic and additive effects...this combined fungicidal activity was confirmed by time-versus-killing studies" [11]. This may be because Aspergilli normally does not respond to the usual medical interventions for Candidiasis [5]. It may also be that substances with cholesterol lowering properties may have some efficacy when dealing with various Aspergilli, which is consistent with this investigator’s clinical experience. This investigator has sometimes found this type of product to be helpful when Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, or various Aspergilli are suspected. Silver Therapies Many have claimed that silver compounds, colloidal or otherwise, are lethal to microbes of many types, including systemic mycoses [15,19,68,69]. It has been claimed that, "It is a catalyst, disabling the particular enzyme that all one-celled bacteria, fungus, and virus, use for their oxygen metabolism which means they suffocate" [69]. The supporters tend to note their belief that colloidal silver was classified as a pre-1938 drug by the FDA and that medical uses of silver continue to this day [68,69]. Others feel that silver is simply a "basic nutritional mineral" [15,68]. This investigator has found silver occasionally to be a helpful nutrient for people with systemic mycoses, but has not found it to be universally lethal to systemic mycoses in-vivo. This investigator’s clinical experience seems to suggest that it primarily helps people with mild candidiais and superficial mycoses (which, in comparison, tend to be relatively mild [3]). Most people take 1 to 6 teaspoons per day. It is sometimes used topically by some people with superficial mycoses. Vita-Mineral Food multiple vitamins, such as Vita-Mineral by Doctors’ Research, seem to help some who suffer from a variety of mycotic infections. This may be due to the vitamins, minerals, and/or essential monosaccharides it contains, or the fact that it contains beta-glucans, naturally occurring superoxide dismutase, and Saccharomyces cervisiae (baker’s yeast). According to W. Crook, M.D., perhaps the nation’s best known expert on Candida albicans, "yeasty foods don’t encourage Candida growth...Eating a yeast-containing food does not make Candida organisms multiply [13]. Some people, though, are allergic to the cell-wall of yeast, so Vita-Mineral has had the Saccharomyces cervisiae cell-wall enzymatically processed to reduce this unlikely occurrence. Vita-Mineral contains 2mg of superoxide dismutase and 50mcg of beta-glucans per tablet, both of which have been reported to have some efficacy when Candidiasis is present [70-72], this may explain why some with yeast infections report improvement after taking products with enzymatically-processed Saccharomyces cervisiae. Folate deficiency may facilitate epithelial invasion of Candida hyphae [73]. Animal studies suggest that copper deficiency appears to reduce the ability to kill ingested Candida albicans [74], selenium deficiency appears to increase reproduction of Candida albicans [75], and zinc deficiency increases the likelihood of Candida infection [76]. Others report that riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, biotin, and vitamin B12 play some role in dealing with Candidiasis [77,78]. Most take one to two tablets per day. Many take it on a permanent basis to support their immune systems to reduce the probability of recurrence--it is usually taken with other supplements when yeasts are active. Whole System YST According to Dr. Don Anderson, product co-developer, Whole System YST by Nutri-West was developed to help clean the body of waste materials produced by fungi. It contains ox bile, red beet root, tillandsia, chlorella, wheat germ. Ox bile and red beet root seem to be helpful for gallbladder support [19]; bile consumption may have some efficacy for hypercholesterolemia [79]. Tillandsia has strong absorptive properties [80], chlorella may provide nutrients to improve immune response [81], and wheat germ supplies B complex nutrients [78]. This product is often the product of choice when Aspergillosis is suspected. Most take 4-6 tablets per day. Zymex Zymex by Standard Process was developed before most natural health practitioners were familiar with systemic mycoses. "The effect of Zymex in promoting favorable intestinal flora contributes materially ... As an intestinal detoxificant, it is especially indicated in cases of diarrhea following antibiotic therapy" [82]. An old clinical test for its application was a stool pH of 6.8 to 7.0. This is one of the original "probiotic" [18,19] supplements. Each capsule contains: defatted wheat germ, lactose, calcium stearate, and enzymatically processed tillandsia and beet root. This product is "an enzyme complex from special cultures of lactic acid forming microorganisms"[82], which one assumes is from the tillandsia and beet root. Wheat germ supplies B complex vitamins [78]. This investigator tends to recommend it to people who have unsuccessfully attempted to self-treat Candida albicans (and mutated forms are suspected), as well as when diarrhea or other digestive difficulties are encountered. Most people take two capsules per meal.
DISCUSSION Large populations are exposed to pathogenic fungi [9]. It should go without saying, but one does not have to have a vaginal discharge for a systemic mycotic infection to be present. Mycotic infections are often overlooked or improperly diagnosed as something else [1,83]. In spite of under diagnosis, reports of systemic mycotic infections are on the increase [1,84]. The widespread use of various medications for the treatment of candidiasis has resulted in an increased amount of candidemias caused by resistant non-Candida abicans strains [84]. As there are side-effects and medicine-resistant strains of Candida species, it is apparent that medicine is not winning the battle against systemic mycoses [11,84]. Is the answer, as advocated by some, the development of a broad-spectrum anti-fungal drug [12]? This investigator is concerned that the development of such broad-spectrum drugs may result in new resistant mycotic strains. Since the drug of choice for nearly forty years for severe invasive fungal infections (Amphotercin B deoxycholate) has side effects (including toxicity [12]), side effects from any new drug would also be a reasonable concern. Also, as the use of anti-Candida medications seem to increase the incidence of Aspergillosis in those who take them [5], this type of "side-effect" from newer anti-fungal agents is possible. Regarding side effects, it needs to be noted that natural interventions can have side effects as well (such as gastro-intestinal upset), some quite serious; though, as a general rule, they tend to be of a temporal nature and not severe. Caution must be exercised by the health care practitioner who engages in utilizing natural interventions for people with systemic mycoses. This paper has not attempted to list possible cautions for the use of the products as it is assumed that health care professionals have access to such cautions from other sources. Allergic reactions can, and do, occur. Also, nearly any substance, natural or otherwise, can have undesirable effects when taken to excess. It needs to be emphasized that it is difficult to say precisely when a specific intervention (natural or drug-based) will be helpful. The particular mycotic strain is usually not known at the time of the appointment and false negatives in response to laboratory tests are common [1]. Laboratory tests, signs, symptoms, health history, allergies, diet, preferences, and duration of complaints are all factors to be considered. Even if laboratory tests confirm a particular type is active, the specific strain number is rarely ascertained. There can exist a tremendous amount of variability among the strains themselves (mutations are also common) [85]. Also, there are differences in humans and as well as their responses to natural interventions. This investigator has found that if a subject does not respond substantially from a single natural intervention, then multiple interventions may be advisable. Completely eliminating all mycotic organisms is essentially impossible since many are present in healthy people [1]. Avoiding excess use of antibiotics [1,19], cleaning the air [62,64], keeping a positive balance of intestinal flora [18,19], incorporating appropriate dietary changes [13-16], and maintaining a strong immune system [1,28,86] are all factors which can limit their ability to grow and cause various symptoms. The amount of time it takes for effective natural interventions vary considerably, with some people improving in days to others taking many months before noticing significant improvement. This investigator has noted that the road to improvement can be a rocky one with many ups and downs before the body’s immune system regains fuller control. There are undoubtedly many other effective natural interventions for systemic mycoses which this paper has not covered. Research involving various other phytochemicals [87], essential oils, boric acid, and fatty acids have shown promise [78,88-90]. Also, the substances mentioned earlier probably have many mechanisms of efficacy which this paper has not described. It is this investigator’s hope that this paper will encourage other researchers to share what they have learned regarding effective, in vivo, natural interventions with the clinical community.
Exercise and Well Being By: Judith A. DeCava, C.C.N., L.N.C.
Many Americans basically or totally neglect physical activity, though most know that exercise is good for their health and that they "should" be doing something. About 60% of U.S. adults are essentially inactive or under-active. One in four do not exercise at all. Only 15% exercise vigorously three times a week for at least 20 minutes, and just 22% participate regularly in physical activity at any level for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Overall, the statistics point to an increasingly sedentary nation. One reason for the low prevalence of physical activity is that it has been virtually "engineered out of peoples lives." Elevators are more convenient than stairways. People drive their cars everywhere; there are drive-through restaurants, banks, even liquor stores. Television, computers, the Internet, sedentary jobs, long commutes from the suburbs, increased time stress: all are conducive to inactivity. Society today virtually compels people not to move. With "too much to do", mechanized ways of performing chores are common, from sit-down lawn mowers to electric can openers. When life speeds up, exercise is the first thing to go. The average person burns 800 fewer calories a day than he/she would have 20 years ago. Exercise is ‘boring,’ takes time that can’t be spared, involves work and commitment. "I’m too fat", or "too flabby", or "too embarrassed". It might make one’s back or knees or feet or arms or head hurt. It is a dirty word. The Centers for Disease Control and American College of Sports Medicine try to make exercise as palatable as possible: Just 30 minutes a day of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week would provide the minimum level of exercise needed. The dangers of a sedentary life are becoming alarmingly clear. A staggering 250,000 deaths a year are attributed to physical inactivity. Death may be a potent persuader, but there are numerous other reasons to begin a more active lifestyle that relate to health and enjoyment. Studies show that people who become active increase their chances of staying healthy for a lifetime. As they age, they are less likely to face a decline into illness and frailty. "Now the evidence is overwhelming that exercise and a long, healthy life go hand in hand." WHO Assistant Director-General, Dr. N.P. Napalkov, states there is strong evidence that "regular physical activity provides peoples of all ages…with substantial health gains [that are] physical, mental, and social and contribute significantly to increased quality of life." MENTAL AND The brain and rest of the nervous system must obtain needed nutrients for proper mental and emotional function. These include vitamin B complex and associated factors, other vitamin complexes, many minerals and trace minerals, fatty acids, enzymes, proteins and avoidance of chemical neurotoxins. Regular exercise may also have a positive effect on brain function and mood. Persons exercising vigorously for 75 minutes a week display superior memories, quicker reactions, and more sound reasoning than those exercising less than 10 minutes weekly. Elderly men and women (aged 60 to 75) who walk regularly show superior abilities in a number of computerized mental challenges than comparable people who only stretch. The walkers’ ability to swiftly switch tasks, ignore distractions, and react quickly improved considerably. People in their 50s and 60s put on regular exercise programs exhibit improvements in performance on mental tests (concentration, reaction times, arithmetic, spatial problems, etc.). Physical activity increases circulation and blood oxygen flow, improves oxygen uptake and nutrient availability to the brain, improves waste removal, increases production of neurotransmitters (brain messengers). Neurons (the brain’s nerve cells responsible for communication) operate better when they get more oxygen and nutrients. Regular exercise improves alertness and energy. Exercise gives children a mental advantage. It has long been known that fit children do better in school than sedentary children. This was thought to be due to increased self-confidence, but now evidence indicates there are changes in brain chemistry that stimulate growth of nerve cells in the brain. This can apply to grownups as well. There is even evidence that physical activity helps the creative juices flow. Volunteers with an average age of 79 years did light aerobic exercises, calisthenics, muscle-strengthening, and exercise aimed at improving neuromotor coordination. There was a "positive impact on neurobehavioral function" so that researchers concluded that "exercise should be encouraged to improve or maintain well being and the quality of life in older individuals." Long-term exercise may help offset any decline in mental skills, including slowed reaction time and loss of short-term memory. Cognitive skills – the process by which knowledge is acquired – improve with exercise. Physical activity will not make a person smarter, but it may help – along with good nutrition – to use what they have more efficiently. Mental health can be improved by physical activities. Exercise plus counseling is more effective in aiding depressive disorders than counseling alone. Regular activity can combat not only everyday stress and anxiety, but also serious depression. "There’s no doubt people who don’t exercise are at greater risk of depression," says Dr. James Blumenthal, Duke University. "And for some clinically depressed patients, exercise is as effective as the best medications we have." Physically active people were half as likely to be depressed 10 years later as those who were inactive. After 10 weeks of three workouts a week, seriously depressed people were significantly less depressed than those who had not exercised. Therapists report that exercise combined with relaxation techniques and stress management top the list for boosting mood. According to Dr. Robert Thayer, California State University, exercise is one of the most effective mood improvers. Gains in physical fitness make a significant difference in the way the body handles stress, including demands of daily life. Improvements in general mood, greater satisfaction, and more positive outlooks are commonly reported. Exercisers score much higher on self-esteem tests than non-exercisers. From childhood to old age, regular physical activity is important "in promoting physical and psycho-logical health." Exercise is associated with positive emotional well being no matter what the mechanisms may be. Some psychologists and psychiatrists assert that exercise does not help mood, but the evidence is overwhelming that those who exercise report fewer problems, better moods, and clearer thinking than those who do not. Even the professional doubters admit "it is reasonable to prescribe exercise" together with other activities because surveys "suggest that ‘feeling better’ is one important motive for sustained participation in physical activity." ‘Feeling better’ is a pretty darned good reason to get moving! Since exercise helps to enhance the sense of well being and improve mood, many mental health professionals are using it as "an inexpensive, drug-free therapy for patients with mild anxiety or depression." ENERGY Lack of energy can result from any number of factors — vitamin B complex deficiency syndrome, blood sugar problems, anemia or chronic illness, poor diet, hormone or endocrine gland disorders including underactive thyroid, etc. If fatigue has no underlying "medical" cause or if it comes from anxiety or mild depression, exercise can supply a boost. In fact, being tired can actually be caused – at least in part – by a lack of exercise, sometimes called "sedentary inertia" or "exercise deficiency." Moderate exercise helps people feel more alert. They report less fatigue as well as increased mental and physical vigor after workouts of varying duration and intensity. The effects continue for at least half and hour, often longer. Achieving a permanent energy boost requires actual physical and biochemical changes in the body – in the muscles, nerves, cardiovascular system, etc., — that come from regular lifestyle changes. Good nutrition and consistent exercise are two of these. Instant gratification should not be expected. In the beginning, a bit of muscle soreness and fatigue may be experienced, particularly in out-of-shape individuals. It takes most people about six weeks to emerge from their lethargy. But if they stick with it, they will gain extra energy and zip. Strength (weight) training is as important as aerobic activity. As an individual builds muscle and becomes stronger, ordinary activities require less effort, leaving more pep all day long — a sort of "energy conservation." Exercise raises the resting metabolic rate, boosts the metabolism. More calories are used each day even when sitting still. At a slimmer weight, less exertion is needed to get the body moving. Aerobics improve the ability of the cardiovascular system to deliver oxygen to muscles. The cellular mitochondria (microscopic "manufacturing plants") help turn fuel into energy. The bodies of sedentary people have a hard time making that fuel-to-energy conversion. Even if their hearts could pump extra oxygen to the muscles, they would have a hard time using it. With regular exercise, the heart becomes stronger and more efficient in pumping oxygen to muscles. The number and density of capillaries feeding the tissues with oxygen also increase. The muscles produce more cellular mitochondria, becoming more efficient at turning fuel into energy. Exercise can lessen muscle tension, increase the body’s ability to use oxygen, improve stamina, enhance circulation, reduce the physiological response to stress, and improve the quality and duration of sleep. Feeling more relaxed is often accompanied by increased vigor and focus. Activity may produce beneficial changes in brain chemistry or electrical output. WEIGHT Over half the adults in the U.S. are overweight. This reflects a hunger for needed nutrients and physical activity. Raw food components are essential including enzymes; all the known and unknown nutrients in whole, complex, unaltered form. Although there may be an endocrine gland or hormone disturbance, disruption in proper fat metabolism (such as liver or gallbladder overload), digestive difficulty, nerve chemistry imbalance, or other underlying cause, by far the causes of overweight are: malnutrition and "foul" nutrition (consumption of refined, processed, altered, depleted, denatured non-foods) accompanied by low levels of physical exertion. Exercise is a key to successful weight control. It is imperative to lose weight, maintain weight, and prevent future weight gain. Adding exercise to a diet of whole natural foods (stressing raw foods and consuming more calories earlier in the day) will not only help "burn" more calories but also prevent loss of muscle and a drop in metabolic rate that usually accompanies low-calorie dieting. Consuming fewer calories may be necessary, but it is the quality of foods (nutrient density) that is most important. Nutritionally rich foods are more satisfying anyway, so calorie consumption usually decreases without "counting." It is vital to not only provide valuable fuel, but also to stoke up the furnace, increasing the number of calories "burned" and boosting the metabolic rate. Metabolic rate is the rate at which the body uses energy – including the number of calories it burns in a given period of time, either at rest or while active. The metabolic rate depends on many things. Regular exercise is required for permanent effects. Nutritional status affects all cells. The more muscle and less fat a body has, the more energy it will use, even at rest. The longer and more intensely one exercises, the greater the boost in metabolic rate. In one study subjects undertook a 12-week strength-training program. Strength increased by anywhere from 24% to 92%, the amount of body fat fell by 3%, weight was unchanged. Their resting metabolic rate increased by an average of 8% so they were able to consume an extra 300 calories a day without gaining weight. The actual exercise burned only a small portion of those calories. Their muscles became more "metabolically active" and upped their resting metabolic rate. In the long term, they would have less body fat, more lean muscle which "burns" more fat, and become trimmer and slimmer without showing much or any loss of pounds on the scale (muscle weighs more than fat). If they reduced calories, they would have lost weight. Strength training may be just as effective as aerobic workouts for dropping weight. It builds lean muscle. For every pound of muscle gained, an additional 30 to 50 calories a day will be burned. Ideally, both aerobic and strength training activities will be part of the exercise program. It is difficult to sustain weight loss without consistent exercise along with an individualized food (and usually supplement) program. Many people "go on a diet" and start exercising and lose weight. This is then discontinued and they regain a lot of that weight within a year. Adherence to a healthful diet — lifelong — and adherence to physical activity — lifelong — is the best way to maintain weight control and well being. Not only will the individual look better, he/she will feel better. What of exercise intensity required to "burn fat"? High-intensity workouts burn more fat and calories than low-intensity workouts in a given amount of time. Though a higher proportion of calories burned comes from fat during low-intensity exercise (about 50%) than during intense workouts (about 40%), many more calories are burned during intense exercise and more fat ends up being used. For example, a person exercises for 30 minutes at low intensity and burns 200 calories; about 100 of those (50%) from fat. If he/she exercises for the same 30 minutes at higher intensity, 400 calories may be burned, 160 of (40%) from fat. More people are willing and able to participate in and stick to low-intensity activities. This will promote weight loss but they will need to do it longer. Another example: Walking and jogging both help weight loss (and improve muscle tone, cardiovascular fitness, etc.). Running burns calories faster than walking, but if a runner and a walker cover the same distance, they will use about an equal number of calories. Further, it is not just the calories "burned" or fat burned during exercise that matters. The greatest impact comes from changes that occur in the tissues, in the cells, to the bodily functions. The goal is health and fitness. Weight control is a side benefit that naturally follows. When there is biochemical equilibrium, a person’s weight will be what it should be. Will exercise increase the appetite so that any extra food consumed will offset the calories burned in exercise? Studies on appetite and exercise have not had consistent results. Many variables are involved such as frequency, duration, and intensity of exercise; amount of body fat; metabolic rate; psychological issues; and – perhaps most important – the type of foods eaten. Usually physical activity will not increase appetite and, even if it does, the increase is very slight. Exercise may up the need for total protein, complex carbohydrates, any of the vitamin complexes, minerals, trace minerals, fatty acids, or enzymes. But eating a piece of cake or a bag of chips will not help. Eating raw nuts, seeds, fruits or vegetables, or other whole, natural foods (and food supplements) will help. The body can efficiently use (to its advantage) some extra calories consumed from whole, natural foods if there is truly hunger for them. It cannot really use empty (nutrient-depleted) calories except for immediate energy or making fat. The critical point is that exercise and a healthful diet become a lifelong habit, a process integrated as a normal part of the regular routine. ETCETERA Women who kept up aerobic exercise during pregnancy were less troubled by headaches, backaches, hot flushes, shortness of breath, and fatigue than inactive pregnant women. A group of middle-aged men were asked to take up aerobic exercise and to keep dairies of their sexual activity. As the men’s fitness improved, so did their sex lives. They had intercourse 30% more often and enjoyed it more than a matched control group of sedentary men. Similarly, physical activity is found to boost libido (sexual desire), arousal, and the ability to achieve orgasm in many women. Long-term effects were even greater than short-term benefits. And 98% noted that regular exercise improved their overall self-confidence; 89% said it boosted their sexual confidence. Men who walked two to three hours a week had a 25% lower risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) than men who rarely walked. Regular moderate exercise may reduce a person’s risk of suffering serious intestinal bleeding (gastrointestinal hemorrhage) which leads to more than 300,000 hospitalizations annually and can be fatal. Exercise helps deliver blood and oxygen to all organs more efficiently, including the gastrointestinal tract; this can improve the health of the tissues (especially if good foods and food supplements provide the needed nutrients). Men who are most active have a 37% lower risk of symptomatic diverticular disease (pockets in the wall of the colon that can become inflamed) than those least active. Most of the protection was due to vigorous activities. An active lifestyle makes a difference in the number and adverse effects of gallstones. The risk of gallbladder surgery was cut by 31% compared to people who are not physically active. Gallstones are less likely to develop in the first place in those who exercise. Hearing acuity is sharper in those who regularly workout. The increase in the amount of blood pumping through the capillaries to nourish cells and the increase in the production of cell-repairing proteins help to protect the ears and repair damage wrought from noise damage. CONCLUSION A definite effort is required in this mechanized, technologically-growing society to attain and maintain fitness and health. Exercise is a precious and preeminent feature that cooperatively works with nutrition and other aspects in the jewel of wellness. A minority of people over-exercise. The majority of Americans are not physically active, impacting their health and future well being. The value of wellness cannot really be measured in dollars; it cannot be purchased. There is no quick fix, no magic pill. Understanding and committing to a way of life in harmony with Nature’s gentle guidelines can only bring excellence and pleasure to life’s treasure.
PRESS RELEASE The Florida Naturopathic Medical Association has been established in the State of Florida, with Headquarters in Vero Beach, Florida. Membership is now open to all Naturopaths and others in the medical community who subscribe to Natural Healing Methodologies. An invitation is extended for you to join with us in promoting the Naturopathic Profession as we move into the 21st Century. Florida Naturopathic Medical Association will work to bring Naturopathy to the forefront of 21st Century Medicine. FNMA will work toward the protection and advancement of Naturopath’s in the State of Florida and will join with ANMA and other organizations to advance the practice of Naturopathy nationwide. Dr. Johnson looks forward to meeting his fellow FLND’s at the Convention in Las Vegas and will hold a meeting of the FNMA. For Membership information call Dr. William D. Johnson, N.D., President at 561-564-9914 or mail your request to: FNMA
STESS 101 By: Michael Borkin, N.M.D. and William P. Stuppy, M.D.
All living creatures respond to stress utilizing a system known as the "adrenal response," commonly referred to as the "fight/flight mechanism." This mechanism has been genetically embedded in animals for hundreds of millions of years. Fight/flight, a series of chemical events that prepare your body to respond to an attack, is our most important survival mechanism. It has been passed down, virtually unchanged from our early ancestors, to present-day man. What has changed is our environment and society. We have produced a culture of chronic stress. Instead of confronting the occasional saber-toothed tiger, we are now under attack 24 hours a day. Job pressures, noise and toxic pollution, dizzyingly rapid changes in the fabric of our society, and a barrage of invasive advertising and negative media messages charge at us. This chronic stress causes our bodies to overproduce chemical and electrical messages, disrupting our natural ability to regain balance, or homeostasis. Our body keeps its hormone functions in a constant state of emergency. Left unresolved, chronic stress results in serious health conditions. Stress, in fact, is involved to some extent in all injury, illness, disability, and death. The good news is that new tools are available for testing, understanding, and treating the effects of chronic stress. WHAT EXACTLY IS STRESS? Stress is the sum total of all physical and mental input. The human body is unchanged for 50,000 years. The mechanism that was needed for survival 50,000 years ago is inappropriate for today’s world. It is unlikely dial our Pleistocene ancestors, having narrowly avoided being trampled by a raging mastodon, would turn to a companion and say, "man, I am stressed out." We should be careful to distinguish between a serious stress problem and the fashionable use of the term stress, which trivializes its lethal consequences. In the 1930s, Canadian researcher Hares Selye, Ph.D., first introduced the biological concept of stress. In his classic work, The Strew of Life, he used the term "general adaptation response" to explain that stress is a state that cannot be avoided because it is the bodes adaptive response to any demand made of it. As such, appropriate responses to stress reflect the process of adaptation; however, prolonged or accumulated stress leads to maladaptation. Stress is communicated in the body by two primary vehicles: neurological impulses and chemical messengers. In response to external stressors perceived via the senses, nerve impulses travel at tremendous speed carrying data from our environment into the body where the information is processed. The brain then sends messages through nerve impulses to parts of the body in response to the incoming data. The chemical messengers for communicating in the body are hormones (from the Greek-meaning "to arouse"), which are produced by the glands of the endocrine system. The hormonal system, while functioning at a much slower pace than the nervous system, works with the nervous system to maintain in ternal harmony and balance. The adrenal glands are the core of the endocrine stress response system. They produce about 40 hormones, responsible for many body functions. The adrenals are the shock absorbers of the body, and two of their most important hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) are responsible for the fight/flight response. Adrenaline provides the first burst of energy in a crisis situation. Cortisol assists in this phase and then continues working for hours afterward. An analogy would be the firing of a gun: the initial trigger is adrenaline; the projectile continuing until it reaches the target is cortisol. Both are irreplaceable, but both are extremely damaging when misused. When the body perceives stress, nerve impulses and chemical messengers immediately work together to respond. Stress activates specialized cells in the cerebral cortex (where thought takes place), which sends an impulse to the hypothalamus (the brain's main stress control center). The hypothalamus then stimulates the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and activates the survival mode (the fight/flight mechanism). The heart starts to pound, the senses become acute, and the body begins to sweat. Blood pressure increases as blood is directed to the brain and major organs, the body's survival centers. Hands and feet become cold and clammy as blood is diverted away from the extremities and redirected to the large muscles used for fighting or running. (After the crisis, the homeostasis mechanism kicks in, seeking to recreate balance through the parasympathetic nervous system the function of which is summarized as "rest and digest.") DESTRUCTIVE VS. CONSTRUCTIVE STRESS Keep in mind that stress can be a constructive response (even a lifesaving one) to a threatening event But what we're concerned with is what happens when stress accumulates. We need to look at our stress reaction and ask ourselves whether we're responding to stress appropriately. If we've lost our ability to adapt, we are experiencing destructive, or maladaptive, stress. When a healthy individual is subjected to prolonged, chronic stress, the adrenal glands initially increase hormone production (primarily cortisol) by enlarging in size. The abnormally high cortisol levels actually interfere with the adaptation process by preventing vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels). When cortisol levels increase, the body turns off the immune system and growth and repair functions. (Why worry about the future when there is a more immediate danger?) Other functions, such as reproductive capabilities and tissue repair, also shut down or become diminished (thus, stress kills sexual desire and prevents recovery from illness). The large intestine can become paralyzed and the anal sphincter locked closed. As the body's ability to control inflammation decreases, and as digestion is inhibited, allergic reactions can result in a swelling of the intestines. This puts a person at risk for celiac disease, malabsorption syndrome, and a multitude of opportunistic invaders such as Candida, parasites, and other dangerous microorganisms. If threshold stress continues and body reserves become depleted, the adrenals begin to falter. They no longer produce the necessary levels of stress hormones. If the stress continues, the adrenals become exhausted and the body goes into a forced state of recuperation. The body is then likely to convert sex hormones such as progesterone and testosterone to stress hormones. Symptoms of this phase include fibromyalgia, heart arrhythmia, increased urine flow, profuse sweating, night sweats, muscle spasms, migraine, anxiety, depression, tension headaches, memory laps, stiff neck and shoulders, asthma, irritable bowel, herpes outbreaks, psoriasis, eczema, low back syndrome, sciatica, erectile dysfunction; amenorrhea, hot flashes, hypertension, skin blotching, rashes, acne, and immune suppression. A New Understanding of Panic Disorder One of the most disabling psychological manifestations of chronic, inescapable stress is Panic Disorder. Previously, panic was restricted to psychiatric interpretation. Dr. Stuppy’s research sheds new light on this disorder. Acute stress produces the normal adrenal response, and subsequent homeostasis. Chronic stress can eventually result in the exhaustion of the adrenal system, and inability of the body to normalize; it remains in a state of "hypervigilance." This can ultimately lead to inescapable stress, and the failure of the adrenal and stress hormone system. As levels of adrenaline fall, the body’s opioid met-enkephalin is released in excess. Metenkephalin is an endogenous opioid, meaning it is a naturally occurring substance that resembles an opiate narcotic (The familiar term "endorphin," which most people know is a "feel good" substance produced by the body, comes from "endogenous morphine.") The increase in metenkephalin produces excessive opiation; this is naturally followed by withdrawal. Chronic stress causes metenkephalin to repeatedly rise and fall seemingly spontaneously and at random, instead of as the appropriate response to certain situations, or without reference to regular cyclical hormonal variations. Dr. Stuppy found that people with Panic Disorder were found to have large, grossly visible deposits of met-enkephalin. Metenkephalin affects not just the brain but the entire body. Panic is an acute opioid-withdrawal phenomenon, and is thus physiologically based--it is not just a psychological problem. The chaotic episodes known as panic can now be understood and treated effectively. Using new digital tools, 24-hour non-invasive monitoring of autonomic function can now undergo a highly advanced form of analysis called Heart Rate Variability (HRV). Concurrent analysis of HRV and hormonal activity brings additional description of stressors and alternative approaches to therapy. In people with Panic Disorder, both neuronal and hormonal systems are characteristically dysfunctional and disarticulated. The better outcome we now see comes from addressing all these issues, to the best advantage, all at once. Individuals suffering from panic can use non-invasive, ambulatory technology and natural treatments for recovery. Autonomic nervous system activity can be seen utilizing "user-friendly" tools for continuous ambulatory monitoring of heart rate and rhythm. Twenty-four hour recordings, in this highly specific method of analysis for panic disorder (called Holter monitoring) reveal the minute, beat-to-beat differences in heart rate and rhythm to a discrete, three-dimensional view of sympathetic and parasympathetic balance. The Holter test also measures the effects of stress, addiction, toxic exposure, and risk of sudden death. Recognition of characteristic circadian (24-hour) patterns leads to accurate assessment of disorders related to stress, indications for treatment, and maintenance of health and wellness. (For information on autonomic testing, see Dr. William Stuppy under "Contacts." DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION The following supplements play an Important role in compensating for stress: VITAMIN A-as beta carotene (25,000 IU) daily. Necessary to maintain healthy mucous membranes which protect sensitive tissues, that when irritated cause inflammation and contribute to stress. B-COMPLEX VITAMINS, ESPECIALLY B1 (THIAMIN), B3 (Niacin), B-5 (pantothenic acid), B-6 (Pyridoxine), and B-12 (cyanocobalimin). These B vitamins are Involved In the formation and conversion of the steroid hormones. They are water-soluble and need to be replaced frequently because the body cannot store large amounts. VITAMIN C-Best to use a pH neutral form, such as an ascorbate or Ester C. Necessary for proper immune modulation, vitamin C helps reduce oxidation which causes abnormal stress on the liver and endocrine system. The adrenal glands contain more Vitamin C than any other single tissue in the body. VITAMIN D-400-1000 IU daily. Similar in structure to the steroids. Necessary for the proper utilization of calcium. Calcium is not only an integral part of borne it is also necessary for the relaxation of muscle. VITAMIN E-400-800 IU dally (do not use more than 800 IU). Necessary antioxidant with mutable roles as cofactor to vitamins A, C, and D. Helps stabilize cell membranes and protect certain tissues which are more sensitive to oxidation such as the skin, liver, eyes, breast and testes. ALPHA LIPOIC ACID-100 - 400 mg daily. Mutable capabilities including increasing the production of ATP (cellular fuel). It also acts as antioxidant as well as aiding in the removal of heavy metals from the body. BIOTIN-1000 mcg prior to meals. Helps maintain glycemic control. SPECIFIC SUPPLEMENTS To get a comprehensive, accurate picture of your hormonal condition, we recommend 24-hour Timed Hormonal Testing (see below). If the results shows that cortisol is high, the following could also be recommended: phosphorylated serine, pregnenolone, progesterone, ginseng, and DHEA. If cortisol is low, licorice extract, pregnenolone, phosphatydl choline, and vitamin B-5 could be indicated. In either case, we also recommend Endosis transdermal creme, a Sabre Sciences formulation that combines all necessary hormones together with energetic medicine for emotional as well as physical support (see Sources). TWENTY-HOUR CIRCADIAN TESTING Twenty-four hour circadian testing is the "gold standard" for true evaluation of your hormonal status. This form of testing Includes the collection and analysis of 6 saliva specimens over a twenty-four hour period (adequately termed "Timed Hormone Capture"). Many systems can be concurrently evaluated in this minimal, essential time period. To determine cause, long-term impact, and best method of dealing with stress, timed, 24-hour circadian testing of hormonal and autonomic function give critical baseline in formation. This test, developed by Dr. Borkin and available from Sabre Sciences, Inc. (see Sources below), offers accuracy and reliability in analysis of steroid activity (cortisol, DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone). The test procedures, performed over a single 24-hour period of time, uses a simple saliva collection device. Hormonal testing is advantageous because it provides a detailed representation of one's current status while also indicating possible future problems. Morning samples give detail Into energy production, hormonal production, and metabolism. Afternoon samples show how well the body utilizes energy, and Indicate one's ability to adapt to various stressors. The evening and midnight samples can give insight into immune function and growth hormone output (the body's ability to repair). Testing at 4:00 a.m. can show if there is a stress response to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), or even sub-clinical pain, which may disturb sleep and repair patterns. Evaluating the entire 24-hour pattern helps establish the overall level of stress and how well the body deals with it. Random testing at any one of these times can be very deceiving Treatment should not be predicated on a single elevated value, nor should it follow the opposite protocol because one value is low SOURCES: Sabre Sciences, Inc., EndoScreen Labs: hormonal test kits. (Doctors can order test panels; patients can order user-friendly testing systems.) 910 Hampshire Road; Suite A, Westlake Village, CA 91361. Tel. 888-490-7300. Web address: sabresciences.comSabre Sciences, Inc., DermaTrans Division: transdermal creams (hormones, nutrients, botanicals, and homeopathics). 910 Hampshire Road, Suite P, Westlake Village, CA 91361. Tel. 888-490-7300. The Foundation for The Advancement of Endocrine Research: 1218 S. Eastern Ave. Las Vegas, Nevada 89104. Tel. 323-450-7101. Information regarding hormonal research (physicians only please). Internet address: www.endocrineresearch.org In this phase, the body shifts all its systems into the survival mode. All the body's reserves are directed for the purpose of trying to maintain homeostasis and all body energy is directed toward immediate survival. When one is in the survival mode, all the senses increase and become hypersensitive. This increases the volume of information entering the mind and causes it to reach maximum saturation before the sleep mode can help remove the stress, which it does by transferring date from active memory, the conscious mind, to the subconscious mind. When we experience this kind of "overload," the body and mind become temporarily detached and we feel spaced out. This is the result of the body's release of opioids that anesthetize us. UNDER STANDING LONG-TERM STRESS It is only when stress continues that it causes damage. Experiencing long-term stress at threshold levels even affects the way cells develop and mature, causing premature cell death. When a significant number of cells' lives are compromised or shortened, the entire organism will suffer poor health or sometimes a shortened life span. While every system reacts to stress in its own way, most people aren't aware of when they're experiencing destructive or long-term stress. We may have felt an emotional stress manifest physiologically, say, in the solar plexus or between the shoulder blades. But how many of us realize when stress is responsible for sciatica or hot flashes? Those of us who are suffering from long-term stress need help to change our stress response and recover. While it usually takes several months, complete recovery form adrenal exhaustion is possible. Whether or not we've reached a state of extreme or long-term stress, what we all need ultimately is a method of healthy adaptation-a method by which we prevent stressful situations from producing a destructive stress reaction syndrome. There are many ways to relieve the mind of stress and interrupt the patterns set in neural pathways that are programmed to receive and send stress messages. Hypnotherapy, visualization, hatha yoga, Tai Chi or Qi Gong, and most meditation techniques are helpful in stopping habitual mental patterns that engender stress reactions. Any activity that allows you to relax your awareness instead of reacting to all stimulation will ultimately give you some recovery time. That might mean walking in nature, swimming, or a creative activity that is different from your normal routine and is satisfying to you. Individual counseling, group stress management classes, or workshops can also help unearth the underlying messages that trigger stress responses. Many maladaptive patterns are conditioned responses learned when we were young, and which we believed were critical to acceptance and hence survival on the planet. It is up to the individual to reduce exposure to new stress and counter the damages done by accumulated stress. Sometimes support helps us to accomplish this. Dietary supplements are a vital, indispensable means of supporting the adrenals and other body/mind activities. Hormone testing is now available to help determine how stress is affecting your body, and the exact supplements and amounts that the exact supplements and amounts that are appropriate for you. (Please refer to the sidebars on pages 52 and 54 for specific information.) Our modern world compels us to deal with our stress in ways that are not genetically programmed; we have to take conscious action to avoid the devastating effect that chronic stress has on our well-being. Keeping our body in the emergency status of fight/flight is no more to conductive to our Pleistocene ancestor to try to use our method of dealing with his contemporary stressors by trying to reason with that saber-toothed tiger: "Can we just sit down and talk about this?" CONTACTS: Dr. I. Michael Borkin, N.M.D., has been in professional practice for 17 years. Dedicated full-time to endocrine research, he is CEO/Director of "The Foundation for The Advancement of Endocrine Research," one of the most progressive hormonal research labs in the country. In addition he is Director of Research and Development for Sabre Sciences. A pioneer in transdermal delivery systems, his ideas have given birth to innovative therapies in naturopathic medicine, including NEST (Neuro Emotional Sensory Training) and Q2m (quantum Magnetic Manipulation). He is past president of the California State Naturopathic Medical Association, and an independent medical/nutritional consultant. Tel: 323-450-7101 Dr. William P. Stuppy, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G. has practiced medicine for over 20 years. His curriculum vitae features numerous academic appointments and dozens of publications in peer-review journals. Over the past decade he has focused his clinical and research skills on the understanding and treatment of stress and panic disorder. A pioneer in the use of non-invasive ambulatory testing, his findings and ideas resulted in the clear understanding of the relationships between psychiatric, somatic, autonomic, and endocrine aspects of stress, panic, and endogenous opioids. His clinic is located in Los Angeles, CA. For information, consultation, and autonomic testing, call 213-250-8778; E-Mail: stuppymd@goodsam.org
Profile of An
Ruth M. Rojo, N.D., Ph.D. Board Certified Naturopath - American Naturopathic Certification BoardRegistered Naturopath - Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Occupational and Professional Licensing Administration Washington, D.C. Board Member - American Naturopathic Medical Association Board President - Texas State Naturopathic Medical Association Dr. Ruth Rojo is not a medical doctor nor does she portray herself as being one. Her diplomas and degrees have been earned and awarded by various institutions for her diligence and dedication to the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of her fellow man and to the field of natural health. She studied body chemistry, human nutrition, religion, speech communication and natural healing at three leading theological and natural health-oriented institutions. She first earned her Ph.D. in Nutrition in January of 1996 with a 4.0 average from the American Holistic College of Nutrition, Birmingham, Alabama. She succeeded with 4.0 and High Honors - Doctor of Naturopathy from Clayton College of Natural Health, Birmingham, Alabama in December, 1996. Also in December of 1996, she studied Spirituality and Healing in Medicine with the Department of Continuing Education, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts. In August of 1997, she became a member of the American Naturopathic Medical Association. She was awarded the coveted once in a lifetime certification as a Board Certified Naturopath by the Board of Examiners of the American Naturopathic Certification Board, Committee of Naturopathic Medical Education, Washington, D.C., September 17, 1997. October 2, 1997, she became a registered Naturopath by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Occupational and Professional Licensing Administration, Washington, D.C. In March of 1998, she became the Board President of the Texas State Naturopathic Medical Association. In September, 1998, she became the Texas Representative for the American Naturopathic Medical Association. In July, 2000, she became a Board Member of the American Naturopathic Medical Association. In addition to health counseling of clients, she has an active international lecture schedule and has authored several books. Priority 1- A Guide To Natural Health is currently available. She is the host of TSNMA’s TV Show "Naturally Speaking" every Saturday Night at 6 PM in San Antonio, Time Warner, Cable 20. In September, 2000, she will represent Naturopathy and the Texas State Naturopathic Medical Association, American Naturopathic Medical Association and Brazilian Naturopathic Medical Association at the First Symposium of Chiropractors in San Paulo, Brazil. Dr. Rojo comments about certification with ANCB: "None of these windows of opportunity would have become possible without my education and National Board Certification by ANCB. ANCB Board Certification is a must for credibility."
10% OFF Budget Rent A Car For ANMA Members
Budget Rent a Car is pleased to be selected as the official car rental supplier for the American Naturopathic Medical Association. Budget is offering a special, 10% off to ANMA Members. Just call Budget at 1-800-527-0700, tell them you are a member of the American Naturopathic Medical Association and give them this BCD # W150400. Your Fast Break application is also on its way to you. This is a great program with Big Advantages for ANMA Members. For more information, contact ANMA headquarters at (702) 897-7053, ask for Julie Morgan.
Fresh Echinacea Extract Reduces Common Cold Symptoms By: Jen Tan, M.D. In a recently published double-blind, placebo-controlled study at the Hospital For Infectious Diseases in Uppsala, Sweden, researchers found that six tablets daily of an extract of fresh echinacea produced a greater reduction in 12 cold symptoms compared with placebo. This study, supervised by infectious disease specialist Dr. R. Brinkeborn, was published in the medical journal Phytomedicine, Vol. 6(1), pp. 1-5, and is considered by the natural foods industry as probably the most significant study conducted on echinacea to date. Of the 559 healthy, adult volunteers initially recruited, 246 caught colds and took 2 tablets 3 times a day of one of the following preparations until they felt healthy again, but not longer than 7 days: 1) Echinaforce® (fresh echinacea purpurea extract consisting of 95% herb and 5% root) 2) Echinaforce® concentrate (same preparation at 7 times higher concentration) 3) Echinacea purpurea root extract 4) Placebo. The four groups were assigned randomly. Based upon the physicians' records, Echinaforce® and the concentrated Echinaforce® preparations were significantly more effective in reducing cold symptoms than the echinacea root extract or placebo. Physicians judged the Echinaforce® extracts effective in 70% of cases. The patients' reaction was even more positive, considering the extracts 80% effective. The following 12 symptoms were assessed by the physicians and patients: severity of illness (general impression), runny nose and sneezing, tearing/burning eyes, sore throat, headache and dizziness, weakness and drowsiness, muscle pains and pains in the limbs, fever, coughing, blocked nose, ear ache or any other complaint most probably related to the cold. With respect to the relative reduction of the complaint index according to the physicians' records, both Echinaforce® preparations proved significantly more effective in the treatment of the common cold than placebo. Patients confirmed these results. Interestingly, the Echinaforce® concentrate, at a seven fold higher dosage was only slightly more effective than the standard dosage. The echinacea root extract only was not significantly more effective than placebo. The Brinkeborn study was also significant in that it concentrated on volunteers who considered themselves especially susceptible to colds. It should be noted that the placebo was judged effective by physicians in approximately 40 percent of cases and by patients in nearly 50 percent of cases. However, the superior showing in the two Echinaforce® groups was statistically significant, and the authors concluded that the fresh extract of echinacea "may be recommended as well suited to the treatment of colds in the acute stage." If you would like to receive a copy of the Brinkeborn study and more information about the Bioforce product used in the study, which is now available in the U.S., please contact Bioforce USA at 1-800-641-7555 / Fax 1-888-798-7555 / Info@BioforceUSA.com / www.BioforceUSA.com
The views and opinions expressed in this online newsletter are not necessarily those of the American Naturopathic Medical Association, its officers or its members, nor are they necessarily in accordance or agreement with its policies. |
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