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Top Stories 31ST
ANNUAL CONVENTION! Legislation Journal
of the American Naturopathic Facts |
HGH:
Shangri-la or Titanic? NIH Grants $250,000 To Study Homeopathic Medicine
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dr. Curtis expresses goodwill, success and prosperity to all throughout the year. He has graciously allowed us to use the remainder of this space to explain the history and demise of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), the "once upon a time accrediting agency for naturopathic medicine". CNME at this point is definitely without credibility or recognition. In the years since CNME’s first recognition, they have never fully complied with USDE regulation With ANMA’s blessing, CNME was approved in 1987 as an accrediting agency for naturopathic programs. In making the announcement of CNME approval, Secretary of Education William Bennett stated that CNME did not fully comply with United States Department of Education (USDE) regulations in several areas. One of those areas included "Conflict of Interest". ANMA tried to work with CNME and found it impossible. In 1990, the National Advisory Committee (NAC) voted almost unanimously to deny CNME recognition. After an intense smear campaign aimed at third party presenters, the CNME was re-instated. Once again the Secretary of Education noted several areas of CNME non-compliance. In December 1998, the NAC voted 11 to 4 to deny CNME its accreditation status. At this point CNME had an opportunity to appeal the NAC decision against them to the Secretary of Education Richard Riley. From December 1998 to January 2001, USDE examined all facts and concluded that CNME was treated fairly but did not follow its own printed standards, and failed to meet Integrity issues. The following, dated January 16, 2001, is a reproduction of the Secretary of Education Report, denying once and for all, CNME recognition by USDE.
THE SECRETARY OF EDUCATION _________________________________________ In the Matter of THE COUNCIL ON NATUROPATHIC MEDICAL EDUCATION Docket No. 00-06-O Appellant. _________________________________________ DECISION OF THE SECRETARY The National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity ("National Advisory Committee") has recommended that I not renew recognition of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education ("CNME") as a nationally recognized accrediting agency under Section 496 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended ("HEA"), 20 U.S.C. § 1099b (m). CNME has appealed this recommendation, I deny CNME’s appeal and adopt the recommendation of the National Advisory Committee to deny CNME’s petition for continued recognition. CNME is an accrediting agency initially recognized by the Secretary in 1987. CNME has accredited and preaccredited only educational programs that lead to the degree of Doctor of Naturopathy or Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine. Currently, CNME’s accreditation or preaccreditation forms the basis of eligibility to participate in federal programs for only one institution, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine ("Southwest"). In total, CNME accredits or preaccredits two programs and two institutions. By statute, the Secretary can recognize accrediting agencies only when their accreditation enables an institution or program to participate in a federal program. Section 496 (m) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C.§ 1099b(m). Therefore, it is CNME’s preaccreditation of Southwest that enables it to seek recognition by the Secretary. In order to be recognized by the Secretary, an accreditor must have standards for accreditation that assess, among other things, an institution’s "curricula," "faculty," and "fiscal and administrative capacity." Section 496(a)(5) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C § 1099b (a)(5). Further, the accreditor must be one that "consistently applies and enforces standards that ensure that the course or programs . . . are of sufficient quality to achieve . . . the stated objective for which the courses or the programs are offered." Section 496 (a)(4) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. § 1099b (a)(4). As well, the Secretary recognizes an accrediting agency only after determining that it is a "reliable authority as to the quality of the education or training offered." Section 101(c) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. § 1001(c). Our mission is to ensure equal access to education, and to promote educational excellence throughout the Nation The governing regulations allow an accreditor to grant an institution preaccreditation status for a limited period of time of no more than five years. 34 C.F.R. §§602.2, 602.23 (b)(2). Accordingly, CNME’s accreditation standards allow for a grant of preaccreditation of "candidate" status when an institution has met CNME’s eligibility requirements and is progressing toward accreditation. Exhibit 1 to CNME Petition for Recognition, CNME Handbook of Accreditation for Naturopathic Medical Colleges and Programs ("Handbook of Accreditation") at p.7. At the same time, CNME’s Handbook of Accreditation provides that the following circumstances "will lead" CNME to issue a show-cause letter as to the withdrawal of candidacy status: an institution’s failure to maintain compliance with CNME’s eligibility requirements or policies; unsatisfactory progress in meeting the general goals for the development of the college; inadequate financial support and control; and inadequacies in the number or professional competence of the faculty, administrators or support staff. Handbook of Accreditation at p.12. CNME’s eligibility requirements require that a candidate college must have a chief executive officer whose full-time or major responsibility is to the college or program; can document a funding base, financial resources, and plans for financial development adequate to carry out the college’s mission and objectives within a balanced budget and a safe level of debt; and must disclose to CNME all information required to carry out its evaluation and accrediting functions. Handbook of Accreditation at pp. 8-9. In accordance with the regulations, CNME also requires that a candidate college progresses towards full accreditation within 5 years; and CNME emphasizes that "sound financial management and planning are of critical importance" for a candidate college. Handbook of Accreditation at p. 12, 34. Since Southwest is the only institution accredited or preaccredited by CNME, it is CNME’s handling of Southwest’s preaccreditation that forms the basis of the National Advisory Committee’s recommendation and my decision. CNME initially preaccredited Southwest in 1994. In 1996, CNME’s site evaluation team stated its concerns about Southwest’s financial circumstances by noting the expense involved in opening a new campus in Tempe, Arizona, and underscoring the need for fundraising to support the school’s educational program. Exhibit (3) to the Petition for Recognition, July 1996, Evaluation Team Report at pp. 4-5. Soon thereafter in September of 1996, CNME voted to reaffirm Southwest’s candidacy status. A scheduled mid-1997 site visit was postponed at Southwest’s request to November of 1997. November 1997 Evaluation Team Report (Exhibit 3 to CNME Petition for Recognition) ("November 1997 Report") at p.8. The November 1997 Report revealed that Southwest was in serious trouble. Between July 1996 and November 1997, its "entire financial structure had become unstable"; the college had "a large accumulated debt." November 1997 Report at 1. Southwest had no President, Senior Vice President/Chief Operation Officer, or Dean of Students, primarily because of financial constraints. November 1997 Report at p.6. The school’s tuition income could not cover its general operating budget, much less deal with its debt burden. November 1997 Report at p. 11. The school’s administrative problems made it impossible for the evaluation team to review monthly income and expense statements, November 1997 Report at p. 10, and, understandably, the team concluded that the school’s employees, students, and board members believed that the school "was operating under crisis management." November 1997 Report at p.6. Not surprisingly, the team also found that the school had not adequately addressed the recommendations that the 1996 site evaluation team had made. November 1997 Report at p.11. Under CNME’s own standards, these facts certainly called for CNME to issue a show cause letter why Southwest’s candidacy status should not be terminated. However, CNME did not issue a show cause letter and did not undertake to withdraw Southwest’s candidacy or preaccreditation status. Instead, CNME scheduled another visit for the spring of 1998, made additional recommendations, and asked for further information. November 1997 Report at p. 35-37. The April 1998 site team visit did not reveal significant improvement. The school had not addressed CNME’s concerns. April 1998 Evaluation Team Report (Exhibit 3 to CNME’s Petition for Recognition) at pp. 1-2. Once more, CNME did not issue a show cause letter or withdraw Southwest’s candidacy status. Instead it reaffirmed Sourthwest’s candidacy status. CNME Minutes of May 22, 1998 (Tab A to CNME Petition for Recognition) at p.5. CNME did ask Southwest for a progress report, and subsequently scheduled a site visit for November of 1998. CNME Minutes of August 24, 1998 (Tab A to CNME Petition for Recognition). In March of 1999, near the end of Southwest’s five-year candidacy period, CNME recognized that there were sufficient reasons to justify a show cause order, but CNME refrained from sending a show cause letter. Instead, it sent Southwest a letter outlining what it considered critical issues facing Southwest, including Southwest’s serious financial problems. CNME March 17, 1999 Letter Southwest (attached to CNME’s response to the Staff Analysis of the U.S. Department of Education, November 12, 1999)("CNME’s Response"). Subsequently, on July 27, 1999, the school’s leadership announced a decision to close the school, in the end classes were suspended for two weeks, and the then-president and board chair resigned. CNME August 3, 1999 Letter (attached to CNME’s Response). Thereafter on July 30, 1999, CNME finally issued a show cause letter to Southwest; CNME amended its show cause letter on August 20, 1999, giving Southwest until September 10, 1999, to demonstrate that its candidacy should be continued. CNME July 30 and August 20, 1999 Letters (attached to CNME’s Response). Based on these facts, CNME failed to "consistently apply and enforce standards that ensure that the course or programs . . . are of sufficient quality to achieve . . . the stated objective for which the courses or the programs are offered." Section 496(a)(4) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. § 1099b(a)(4). See also Section 101(c) of the HEA, 20 U.S.C. § 1001(c). As of November 1997, the conditions at Southwest clearly were those that, under CNME’s Handbook of Accreditation, "will lead" to a show cause letter. From that point on, the conditions at Southwest continued to deteriorate significantly, yet CNME did not issue a show cause letter until July of 1999, after the school’s president and board chair attempted to close the school and classes were suspended. Faced with the serious condition of Southwest in 1997, CNME did not follow its requirements. Likewise, CNME did not, as required by the regulations, either take prompt adverse action or require Southwest to bring itself into compliance with CNME’s standards within a period not exceeding two years. 34 C.F.R. § 602.26(C)(2) AND (3). See also 34 C.R.F. § 602.24 (setting out requirements for accreditation processes, including the requirement that accreditors evaluate whether an institution complies with the accreditor’s criteria). In its appeal, CNME contends that it has been "completely impartial and objective" toward Southwest. The basis of the National Advisory Committee’s recommendation and the basis of my decision is not a conclusion that CNME has acted in bad faith or with partiality. Instead, CNME is denied recognition because it did not follow its own standards and did not take appropriate action when faced with a school in candidacy status that was in a financial and management crisis. CNME also raises concerns about a third party organization that opposed CNME’s recognition before the National Advisory Committee and argues that CNME has served a useful purpose for the naturopathic profession. However, the views of this third party organization have played no part in my decision, and the National Advisory Committee and I do not express any view concerning any issues regarding the naturopathic profession. Our only role is to determine whether CNME satisfies the statutory and regulatory requirements for an accreditor to be recognized under the Higher Education Act, so that the accreditor can accredit institutions for participation in various federal programs, including the Title IV student financial assistance programs. As explained above, both the National Advisory Committee and I have concluded that it does not. For these reasons, I deny CNME’s appeal, adopt the recommendation of the National Advisory committee, and deny CNME’s petition for continued recognition. So ordered the 16 th day of January 2001.Washington, D.C. ________/S/________
Calcium in Food is Superior to Non-Food Calcium By: Robert J Thiel, Ph.D., Naturopath
Believe or not, years ago, many in the mainstream medical community used to warn against calcium supplementation. Why? Because many of them concluded that since arterial plaque contains calcium and because kidney stones contain calcium, that supplemental calcium may increase risk to develop those conditions. Now, nearly all doctors recognize that moderate supplementation with calcium may actually decrease the risk of developing kidney stones and does not result in increases in arterial plaque. Many, however, have seemed to have gone to the other extreme when they state that women should receive 2,000 or so mg of calcium per day. Overall, the higher the consumption of calcium supplements, the lower the percentage of calcium absorption becomes [1]. Many do not seem to think that the type of calcium matters, but it does. Calcium in food is superior to non-food calcium. Doctors who study calcium understand that "The amount of calcium absorbed depends on its interaction with other dietary constituents...The absorbability of calcium is mainly determined by the presence of food constituents" [1]. One study found that food complexed calcium is 8.79 times more absorbed into the blood than calcium carbonate and 2.97 times more than calcium gluconate [2] (interestingly, another study found that calcium from bone meal/powder is absorbed 1.13 times more than calcium carbonate [3]). Another found that calcium in natural food complexes raised serum ionic calcium levels from 1.08 to 1.15 mmoles, yet calcium carbonate did not raise serum ionic calcium levels [4]. When serum calcium levels drop, calcium leaves the bone—higher absorption of calcium is better for bone health [1]. Clinical reports consistently confirm that dietary/food calciums [2,4-6] are important in the management of blood pressure. This does not appear to be the case with isolated calcium salts (the results appear inconsistent [4-7]). One study that compared food complexed calcium to calcium gluconate found those who consumed food complexed calcium had an 8.2% decrease in diastolic blood pressure after seven weeks (p<.01) whereas those consuming calcium gluconate had no significant change [2]. Calcium is important for optimal health as calcium deficiencies can contribute to osteoporosis, muscle cramps, insomnia, mood/behavioral/nerve problems, hypertension, growth problems, kidney stones, and colon cancer [1,2]. Absorption of insoluble calcium salts, such as calcium carbonate, can be increased if consumed with a meal [1], whereas food calciums can normally be taken on an empty stomach. Foods that contain high amounts of calcium include dairy (such as goat’s milk), wheat, other whole grains, certain yeast products, some fish, broccoli, leafy green vegetables, kidney beans, and navy beans [8]. Factors such as all natural vitamin D and other food substances are essential for calcium absorption and utilization [1,8]. What Kind of Calcium is in Your Calcium Supplements?
The biggest problem with food complexed calcium, from a practitioner standpoint, is that amount of food (or in the case of calcium supplements made out of food) is much larger than if a client simply consumes ground up rocks. Some practitioners will instead recommend a true amino-acid chelated calcium, while not a natural food, is also not a rock. Other practitioners simply explain to their clients that the body handles food complexed calcium the best and that larger quantities are not always required. There are also some who recommend some of the naturally calcified sea plants, which though the calcium is not quite the same as food complexed calcium, because it occurs on a plant, the absorbability is higher than calciums which are simply derived from rocks [10]. Others simply recommend what they feel is best for their individual client, irrespective of form. It is known that "individuals seem to have preset calcium absorptive abilities; approximately 60% of the variance in calcium absorption between individuals can be accounted by their individual fractional calcium absorption" [1]—or in other words, everyone is different when it comes to calcium—so there probably should not be a uniform quantitative intake recommendation. Since humans do not absorb minerals in rock form such as plants do (this is one of the most basic ways that plants and humans differ [11]), should humans swallow rocks processed with various acids for calcium or eat processed bones? Isn’t it better for humans to consume natural calcium as it is found in plants? Food researchers have concluded that food complexed calcium is "the most suitable form of calcium for long-term supplementation" [2]. Calcium in food is superior to non-food calcium. Calcium in food complexes, or naturally occurring on plants, should nearly always be the naturopath’s choice for calcium supplementation.
Underactive & Overactive
Thyroid, By: Judith A. DeCava, C.C.N., L.N.C.
Nestled just below the Adam’s apple in the base of the neck, the thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped (two-lobed) structure that weighs less than an ounce and produces less than a teaspoonful of hormone each year. In the first part of this article, signs, symptoms, and causes of various thyroid conditions were discussed. In this issue, the affects of temperature, medical, and naturopathic interventions will be discussed.
TEMPERATURE Basal (resting) body temperature and axillary (armpit) temperature – the Barnes Thyroid Test — are often used by alternative therapists to determine thyroid imbalance. If the temperature is below "normal" (98.6°F) the inference is underactive thyroid; if above "normal," overactive thyroid. Can these measurements alone be used to diagnose thyroid dysfunction? Studies have demonstrated that 98.6°F (37° C) "should be abandoned as a concept having any particular significance for the normal body temperature." It may reflect an average, but not necessarily a "normal" temperature. Many healthy people have an average oral temperature of 97.6°F. Virtually everyone has a temperature lower than 98.6°F sometime during the day. Lower temperatures are common in early morning, higher in late afternoon (up to an average of 99.9°F). Some people seldom reach 98.6°F at all. In fact, 98.6°F "had no apparent relevance at all" and made up only about 8% of readings. Overall average body temperature for the majority of people is 98.2°F. Normal temperatures can vary anywhere from 96°F (35.6°C) to 99.9°F (37.7°C). There is "considerable individual variability." Many scientists would prefer to see "normal" body temperature listed in medical references as a range of values rather than as a mean. Dr. Roger Williams showed that various organs and tissues have distinctive temperature patterns. That is, many different temperatures occur in different areas of the same body, depending on "biochemical activity" which affects heat production. For example, higher or lower temperatures may be found in the distal forearm or hand compared to the proximal arm. "It is evident that temperature measurements reveal inescapably the existence of biochemical individuality. Even overall temperatures, though fundamentally summations, often reveal substantial differences." Variations exist between men and women due to amounts of fat deposits, body size, skin surface in relation to height, amount of muscle mass, and for women, cyclic hormonal changes. Nevertheless, "the average difference between the sexes is usually smaller than the differences between one person and another." Basal temperature can be lower than "normal" when various metabolic diseases or imbalances exist. No wonder "the Barnes Thyroid Test (axillary temperature) alone is not always accurate." If an individual’s normal average temperature is known (which may be changeable) prior to the onset of suspected thyroid imbalance, then a comparison of before and after may be helpful. But it probably should not be used as the only determinant. 1
MEDICAL TREATMENTS Hypothyroidism is invariably treated with thyroid hormone (thyroxine) medication. The current medical view that "there is no way to cure underactive thyroid" leads to the conclusion that "most people require lifetime hormone replacement." If the thyroid is totally nonfunctional – incapable of producing hormone – or is surgically removed, hormone drugs are probably inevitable. Yet, if the gland is underfunctioning – operating albeit below normal – the gland may simply not be receiving sufficient nutritional, nerve, or blood supply to assure optimal performance, or that something (e.g., toxic substance) is interfering with its effectiveness. The most prescribed thyroid hormone drug is L-thyroxine (Synthroid, Levothroid, Levoxine, Levo-T) — synthetic hormone. "Even a small mistake in dosage can have consequences…" Periodic blood tests are needed to determine if the "right amount" is given. Symptoms of overdose are similar to hyperthyroidism and may include heart irregularities and bone loss. The combination with certain other medications (anticoagulants, antidiabetic drugs, digitalis, beta blockers, estrogen replacement and oral contraceptive hormones) can cause problems. Hormone dosages should be reduced as a person ages; a 70-year old woman requires only 2/3 of the dosage for a 25-year old. Thyroid medication can cause toxicosis (poisoning). Two points are clear: (1) A thyroid hormone drug cannot truly replace a person’s own thyroid gland activities. The natural fluctuations in hormone secretion – with the complex and delicately balanced feedback system according to the body’s constantly changing needs — are not duplicated. When taking a drug, the body "reads" the presence of hormone in the blood so does not send the normal "distress signals" of underactive thyroid. Without the systemic demands for activity (due to presence of hormone in the blood), the gland eventually slows and ceases function. Thus hormone therapy can lead to effective "death" of the thyroid gland, usually within two years. Then the drug is needed for life. (2) It is known that "despite much attention to the long-term safety and possible side-effects of thyroxine therapy, no consensus has yet been reached and adequate long-term prospective studies are lacking." Using hormones as drugs is playing with fire; in minute amounts they are extremely powerful chemical compounds. Synthetic hormones have more potential for harm and are poor imitations of the real item. There is always a "question of the wisdom of giving medication – in particular, naturally occurring hormones – without considering its total effect on the organism and person…" For example, a diagnosis of hypothyroidism in an elderly person might prompt the immediate administration of thyroid hormone. This can "tip the patient into coronary insufficiency or heart failure." Such people "might be better off left alone." In fact, some physicians, like Richard Asher, have wondered whether the diminution of thyroid function sometimes "might not be a physiological or adaptive measure," as in the case above, designed to reduce the load on an ailing heart or compensate for something else. There is "substantial evidence" that doses of thyroxine sufficient to suppress TSH secretion "are associated with changes in other organs and tissues" – such as the heart, liver, kidney, and muscle – "that resemble those recorded in overt (obvious) hyperthyroidism." Bone density may be significantly reduced after six months of treatment with a thyroid hormone drug, which "could represent a physiological response to restoration of normal serum thyrotropin {TSH} concentrations after a lengthy period of thyroid failure." Suppression of blood levels of TSH by thyroid hormone medication in a postmenopausal woman who is already at risk of osteoporosis "may not be in the patient’s best interests." Long-term hormone therapy above physiological dosages "may predispose patients to decreased bone density in the hip and may increase the risk of age-related bone loss." Significant bone loss still occurs without excessive dosages. So "even minimal suppression of thyrotropin is accompanied by biochemical evidence for increased bone turnover," and may lead to osteoporosis. Most doctors prescribe synthetic hormones thinking they are more pure, more predictable, more consistent, more effective than natural. This has not been proved and synthetics do not "work" for many people. The synthetic thyroxine (T4) must be converted in the body to T3 in order to be utilized. "Many people suffering from hypothyroidism cannot make this conversion." Many clinicians claim the natural form of thyroid hormone (desiccated porcine or bovine gland such as Armour Thyroid) is more effective. It contains all the gland’s hormones and other naturally-occurring components. For example, Dr. Alan Gaby states that 38% of the iodine present in the thyroid gland is in the form of diiodotyrosine, also found in the blood. It is not yet known what diiodotyrosine does, but it is certainly not inert. This compound, one of a multiplicity of known and unknown components, is present in natural thyroid and in natural glandular supplements (hormones are removed from supplements). Substituting natural thyroid for synthetic thyroid leads to improvements in neuro-psychological functioning, cognition (language, learning, memory), and mood. However, hormone compounds, even those from natural sources, are very powerful; an excess can cause "thyroid storm." Glandular supplements could not have such effects; they simply provide food to support thyroid health. Hyperthyroidism is medically treated by one of three methods: (1) radioactive iodine to disable the gland, (2) drugs to suppress hormone production, or (3) surgery to remove the thyroid followed by lifetime hormone replacement. Each of these methods can be "tricky." Most doctors in the U.S. recommend radioactive iodine. The thyroid, with its special affinity for iodine, selectively absorbs this medication. Radioactive iodine necessitates radiation exposure, which has an "indisputable link" to cancer, "causes almost inevitable hypo-thyroidism," and may worsen eye problems or other symptoms. Although some studies report that thyroid cancer incidence was not increased after radioactive iodine therapy, other studies find "a small but statistically significant increase in thyroid cancer risk," an excess of thyroid cancer mortality after treatment, and a higher mortality rate from brain cancer and several other cancers. Also reported is increased risk for fracture of the femur, deaths due to thyroid disease, cardiovascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease. The radiation dose to the thyroid is so high that in most cases the thyroid gland is "obliterated." The predominant effect "should be" cell killing, not mutilation. The outcome is hypothyroidism or athyroidism (no function). Thyroid hormone treatment is then recommended for 90% of patients. Drugs such as propylthiouracil (PTU) or methiamazole (Tapazole) are sometimes used to inhibit synthesis of thyroid hormone with the hope that the hyperthyroid condition will go into remission. Such antithyroid drugs "usually do not cure the patient" and have "rare but potentially life-threatening" adverse effects including inhibition of bone marrow function (agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia), drug fever, a lupus-like syndrome, insulin autoimmune syndrome (can result in hypoglycemia coma), hepatitis, inflammation of arteries, decreased level of prothrombin (for blood clotting), and more. Surgery to remove the thyroid leaves a scar, causes permanent hypothyroidism (with lifetime hormone therapy needed), and "can be a source of significant morbidity [disease] from complications." There is some risk of injury to the parathyroid glands or vocal cords. Additionally, the operation "does not have a good success rate." About 19% of surgical cases are still hyperactive following surgery. Almost one-third of cases of hyperthyroidism will resolve without any therapy. Whether hypothyroid or hyperthyroid, the key is to "look for the underlying problems" – the cause – instead of treating the result, the symptoms. Various factors have been implicated in disrupting thyroid function including nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. 2
NATUROPATHIC NUTRITION If not severe, the imbalance of an under- or overactive thyroid gland may possibly "be corrected through natural means." Deficits – or interference with availability of – iodine and other nutrients are usually involved. "Simply replacing these through supplementation can often improve function dramatically." The thyroid gland contains a high concentration of iodine as well as ionized calcium, sodium, thiocyanate (CNS), bromine, fluorine, chloride, arsenic, and aluminum. No wonder the thyroid has an affinity for – and thus a predisposition for – toxic insult or injury by thiocyanate-type drugs (thiouracil, sulfa drugs, salicylates as aspirin), bromide drugs, industrially-produced sodium fluoride, chlorine chemicals, and aluminum (unnatural sources). Many of these toxic chemicals have a tendency to replace iodine which may be "a very mobile and vulnerable substance in the thyroid…" The bones have a thousand times more calcium than the thyroid, but among 34 other types of body structures, "calcium is found at its maximum in the thyroid and [is] activated or ionized there." Conversion of T4 into T3 requires the minerals zinc, copper, and selenium as well as the essential fatty acids. Thus, even if sufficient hormone is produced by the thyroid, it may not be effectively converted into the most active or needed form if there are deficits of these and other nutrients. In one study, supplementation with zinc reestablished normal thyroid function in hypothyroid patients who had normal serum T4 levels and zinc deficiency. About half of American diets are deficient in selenium. Persons living in areas of the world where the soil is low in selenium have greater incidence of thyroid disease. Glutathione (glutamic acid, cysteine, glycine) is involved in conversion of T4 to T3; selenium increases the availability of glutathione. Deficits of potassium, phosphorus, boron, magnesium, manganese, chromium, and sodium are associated with hypothyroidism. "Nutritional" lithium compounds (inorganic isolates) can contribute to subclinical hypothyroidism. A lack of vitamin A complex (or other fat-soluble vitamin) reserves can adversely affect thyroid function. An underfunctioning thyroid can decrease the conversion of carotenes into retinol (vitamin A). Vitamin A and zinc deficits have been reported in patients with increased incidence of goiter formation. Vitamins A, B complex (particularly B2, B3, B6) and associated factors such as PABA (paraminobenzoic acid), E complex, and C complex are all nutrients required by the thyroid. Vitamin A deficiency reduces the thyroid’s ability to take up iodine. Laboratory animals deficient in vitamin E complex have pituitary glands that do not synthesize adequate amounts of TSH. B vitamins are essential for efficient transport of oxygen to cells and thus to metabolism. Calcium and vitamin D complex influence endocrine gland activity. In hypothyroidism, calcium absorption and retention is increased. Serum vitamin D3 metabolites are elevated in hypothyroid patients and reduced in hyperthyroidism. Unsaturated and essential fatty acids play an essential role in thyroid function and its effect on metabolic rate. Essential fatty acids – particularly the omega-3 group and its derivatives – "are like a poker that stokes the fire," benefiting oxidation and metabolism. Natural, unaltered fats contain substances that balance metabolic rate, some slowing it down and others speeding it up. Iodine is, of course, the primary nutrient related to thyroid function. It is a regulator of oxidation, metabolic rate, and energy production. A deficiency of iodine may result from the faulty metabolism of fats. Unsaturated fatty acids are actually rated by their iodine number. In hyperthyroidism, there is elevated blood iodine, but a deficit in the gland. In hypothyroidism, the gland has an overabundance of iodine, but low blood levels. Supplementation of iodine in hyperthyroidism slows or depresses excess thyroid function, allowing the gland to accept more needed iodine. Supplementation in hypothyroidism allows unsaturated fatty acid bonds to pick up iodine from the thyroid gland, raising blood iodine levels, and improving thyroid function. Further, many authorities believe that all thyroid enlargements – including exophthalmic (abnormal eye protrusion) goiter – are examples of "a compensatory work hypertropy" (attempts to rectify imbalance) due to iodine deficiency. The demands made upon the thyroid to produce its hormone without an adequate iodine – or other nutrient – supply results in hypertrophy (increase in size), hyperplasia (excessive proliferation of normal cells), adenomatous growths (multiple glandular tissue overgrowths), and in some instances, final exhaustion atrophy (wasting). Unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin C complex, and all the specific amino acids peculiar to the thyroid gland are essential to the thyroid follicles’ ability to properly utilize and metabolize iodine. High T3 and free T4 levels in the blood suggest thyroid difficulty in metabolizing iodine and T4. The body contains only about 14 milligrams (mg) of iodine. In order to form normal quantities of thyroid hormone, approximately 35 to 50 mg of iodine must be ingested each year – about 1 mg each week – between 100 and 200 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, the thyroid can adapt to wide fluctuations of iodine intake and individual needs may vary. Unfortunately, modern farming methods have depleted much of the iodine in soils, resulting in low iodine levels in foods. Organically-produced foods are likely to have higher amounts of iodine and other trace minerals. Still, the amount of iodine in foods in different regions will vary widely. Non-food inorganic iodine has been added to salt for many years. This is not ideal since it is not in a natural complex or protein-bound form. Many researchers believe the form of iodine in iodized salt may contribute to thyroid problems. Food sources such as deep-ocean seafood, kelp and other seaweed, are preferable. Excess iodine intake, especially from nonfood sources, can result in hypothyroidism and, in the presence of low selenium nutriture, may promote thyroid tissue damage. Whole, natural foods and real food-concentrate supplements can do much for "restoration of relatively normal function" of the thyroid. Clinical reports indicate that, especially in subclinical imbalances, nutritional support alone is all that is required. Fish and other seafood, kelp, dark green and yellow vegetables, root vegetables (including potatoes), whole grains, raw nuts and seeds, for example, may help. Some foods contain naturally-occurring goitrogens (thyroid depressants) and/or progoitrogens (thyroid stimulants). The list includes cabbage, kale, kohrabi, rutabega, cauliflower, mustard greens, radishes, broccoli, brussels sprouts, maise (corn), peas, soy, lima beans, sweet potatoes, cassava, sorghum, apricots, prunes, walnuts, cherries, almonds, bamboo shoots. Although it is admitted that these foods are unlikely to adversely affect persons with normal thyroid function, persons with hypo- or hyperthyroidism are cautioned about frequent consumption. However, the "negative influence" of these foods is based on tests using isolated chemicals – such as cyanogenic glucosides, thiocyanate, pressor amines – found in the foods OR tests with processed portions of the foods rather than the whole, natural foods. For example, isolated soy protein, as found in baby foods and formulas, is reported to produce goiters in infants. When whole foods are ingested, all the phytochemicals and nutrients are intact, so they will have a balancing, healthful effect on the thyroid. That is, whole foods may contain compounds that both slow and speed thyroid function. The body’s selective absorption allows a choice of what and how much of these components are used. In traditional "medicines" around the world, many of the foods listed above have been used to treat both hypo- and hyperthyroidism. Nature balances. Human alterations or synthetic chemicals distort. 3 CONCLUSION Although thyroid health may seem complex, the essence of thyroid function encompasses the simple principle that permeates biochemistry: the healthy body is far more than just the operation of its individual parts. Each gland, organ, tissue, even each cell, cooperates and strives for dynamic balance. Toxic substances, imbalances, deficiencies, or excessive stresses may interfere with the operation of a susceptible area such as the thyroid gland. Often there is a cascade of responses involving other body parts. Avoiding poisons and providing natural, functional nutrients may accomplish much in aiding the body to achieve the equilibrium for which it persistently toils.
IN LOVING
MEMORY OF Dr. Gene Blaney 10/6/1931 - 12/20/00 Dr. Gene Richard Charles Blaney, 69, died of heart failure Wednesday, December 20, 2000. He was born Oct. 6, 1931 in East St. Louis, Illinois.Dr. Blaney was a chiropractic doctor & a doctor of naturopathic medicine. Dr. Blaney was a member of ANMA for many years. He was a strong supporter of freedom of choice in health care and worked toward that goal. He will be missed by many. Dr. Mel Shelton Dr. Mel Shelton recently passed away. A pioneer in the profession, he served 25 years on the Arizona Board of Naturopathic Examiners. Mel Shelton, D.C., N.M.D., was a former member and supporter of ANMA. He will be missed by many.
HGH: Shangri-la or Titanic?
By: Asad Shahsavari, NMD, PhD, MD(MA)
PART 1 The newest kid on the block of anti-aging "miracle drugs" is none-other than the oldest story in human evolution – human growth hormone. Better known by its acronym: HGH. Human growth hormone is fast becoming the darling of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, homeopathy, and allopathy. Why? It appears that the youth fetish of the new millennium is merely an ancient cult, seeking immortality and fabled return to optimal states of beauty, strength and vitality. But is this latest prodigy in a long line of ancestral answers the true SHANGRI-LA fountain of youth, or a phantom Titanic, destined for doom? For thousands of years, from every corner of the globe, legends and myths and grand plans arose around the regaining of youthfulness; from SHANGRI-LA to Mt. Olympus, to VALHALLA to NIRVANA. Humans have ingested all manner of plants, elixirs, and aromas, not to mention the practice of elaborate systems of mind control, meditation, and altered states of consciousness, to reverse the aging process and restore the body and mind to eternal states of youth. The success stories are quite impressive. Perhaps it is the ultimate combination of conscious living directives that accounts for these advances, but the temptation to discover the singular "magic potion" is catapulting HGH to pinnacles of current anti-aging biomedics. The wisest approach is to review the realities of HGH and analyze both pros and cons on this provocative issue of hormone replacement therapies. To begin with, HGH may be simply described as a naturally occurring hormone, produced by the pituitary gland and responsible for stimulation of growth. It boasts a litany of metabolic responses, including: increased energy levels, improved libido and sleep patterns, bone and muscles mass enhancement, degradation of cellulite and fat cell production, rejuvenation of skin texture and dermal integrity, stimulation of hair growth and hair color renewal, and restoration of organ function. An illustrious list of desirable effects, indeed. No wonder HGH is finding a home in medicine cabinets around the country! Empirically sound clinical studies are showing statistically significant improvements in such diverse areas as: body composition, immunity, brain function, and sexual and athletic performance. Yet, there are many concerns in the efficacy and safety of long-term use of such a powerful stimulant to human metabolic factors. A few prudent questions must be asked. Does the individual state of metabolism play a key factor in the use or abuse of HGH? Is exogenous HGH the answer for replacement of an inherent hormone produced through a complex series of interactive chemical compounds in the human system, or should HGH be stimulated for internal production by the body’s own existing biochemistry? Are the effects of exogenous HGH isolated, or can they involve the elevation of other hormonal factors, glandular actions, and subsequent processes in the body? And of course, the question that poses the most serious consequences: does HGH stimulate hyperactivity of mitosis in abhorrent cells, as exhibited in cases of malignant cancers? There are many redeeming factors in this ageless quest and question of re-youthing. In order to do justice, one must examine the available medical and scientific indices, weigh the potential risks and actual benefits, seek alternate protocols where possible, and be honest in evaluating the immediate and long-term results, on HGH and the intriguing growth hormone enigma. The next part of this series will examine current uses and resources of HGH, which may be of interest to alternative practitioners. PART II To begin examining the recent avalanche of animal and human clinical trials involving HGH and other anti-aging substrates, a few key factors will aid in determining the pathways of scientific and medical perspectives. Geriatrics, or the media study of the physiology and pathology of old age, is being infused with a plethora of anti-aging "breakthroughs." Ironically, gerontology, the scientific version of geriatrics, has given birth to a rather embryonic study of youthfulness. Various theories of aging and anti-aging remedies have been postulated from genetics and recombinant DNA, to antioxidants and nutraceuticals, to endocrine manipulation of pituitary, thyroid, gonadal, and pancreatic secretions, to live cell therapy, glandulars and Gerovital, to surgical removal of major glands, such as pituitary in a hypophysectomy. Arthur V. Everitt, from the department of physiology at the University of Sydney, Australia, has performed rodent studies with hypophysectomy. He chronicles certain responses which included: reduced collagen fiber cross-linking in the tail tendons, inhibition of age-associated kidney lesions, inhibition of ventricular hypertrophy, prolonged red blood cell life span, reduction of serum cholesterol level, retardation of loss of oocytes (egg cells) by the ovaries, and elimination of hind leg skeleton muscle degeneration. On the contrary, Everitt accelerated aging and age-related pathologies in rats by giving them hormones. The variables appear to be quite complex among the notable influences effecting hormonal responses. These variables are environmental determinants such as temperature, stress, and food, and are detectable by the nervous system, which then acts as a relay to the hypothalamus, which, in turn, regulates the secretion of pituitary and other hormones. According to Everitt’s studies, overstimulation of this system appears to accelerate the aging process while retardation of this system, accompanied by caloric restriction, appears to inhibit aging and associated pathologies. This poses a monumental question. Are hormonal implantations effective in all cases, or are there strategic variances in individual metabolisms, coupled with environmental variables and other unknown factors, which play a significant role in the outcome of the hormone therapy itself? Isolation of particular hormonal substances have proven deleterious, if not, lethal, in other cases. Take unopposed estrogen therapy, derived from pregnant mare’s urine, which administers the miraculous medical reversal of menopausal and premenopausal symptoms. The increase in ovarian, breast and uterine cancers was alarming, due to overstimulation of these organs by inappropriate estrogenic activity, which could have been, and should have been, countered by simultaneous progesterone replacement. Today, the unique properties of different estrogen, and the phytoestrogens, which are being cultivated from herbal and homeopathic sources, are serving to remedy their chemical counterpart’s fallacies. This brings us back to HGH postulation. Reputed pharmacologist James Jamieson mentions the insulin-like growth factor type I (IGF-I) in an article which appeared in the Townsend Letter for doctors and patients in December 1998. IGF-I is also known as somatomedin C which is thought to be the best known indicator for growth hormone release from the pituitary gland. He recounts the half-life of IGF-I as 20 hours compared with the half-life of 20 minutes of HGH. IGF-I is apparently stimulated by the release of HGH. HGH is known to act on the cells in a direct fashion, yet, most of the growth promotion is elicited through IGF-I. IGF-I has proven to have mitogenic effects on prostate and other cancers, according to Jamieson, "it has been clinically proven that symptomatic improvements do not necessarily correlate with higher IGF-I levels." In closing, it is wise to review the pros and cons of HGH therapy from a more stable position than mere symptomatic relief of aging and degeneration. Although the future of anti-aging biomedics looks promising, wisdom dictates that we view the larger picture and the ultimate trade-off. Are a few months or years of injected youthfulness a fair exchange for accelerated mutation and ultimate aberrance of the entire metabolism, resulting in possible tragic overtones, such as cancers and birth defects? It is the author’s opinion that the least invasive and most effective path would be to stimulate the body’s own production of growth hormones through metabolic therapy. Such is the current trend in the nutraceutics and homeopathic industries. Using natural compounds, which are aligned to the biochemistry of humans, not rodents, guinea pigs, or horses, a more gentle effect may be achieved. We must also remind ourselves that an isolated compound is a foreign concept to the intricately complex array of biochemical interactions within the human physiology and psychology. If the majority of our cells are no more than seven years old, where is aging happening to begin with? We may want to explore the psycho-spiritual elements of our deep-seated beliefs in youth, aging, death and immortality.
PRESS RELEASE In an important first step, the National Institutes of Health granted $250,000 to study homeopathic medicine, said Dr. Iris Bell, director of research for the University of Arizona’s Program in Integrative Medicine. The study will evaluate homeopathy’s effectiveness in treating fibromyalgia, a mysterious disease marked by chronic fatigue and pain. There is no definitive treatment for it in conventional medicine. Another significant part of the study will be to set standards and methods for future studies of homeopathy, the difficulty of which can’t be understated because every homeopathic remedy is specific to the individual being treated, Bell said. A third element of the research will be to look for measures to use to predict who will do well with homeopathic therapy. Bell will conduct brain wave readings with an electroencephalograph as patients sniff remedies, and monitor heartbeat rate variability The lack of scientific proof for homeopathy’s methods and success has been a major stumbling block to its acceptance in conventional Western medicine. But that hasn’t stopped it from becoming one of the world’s most popular forms of alternative or complementary treatment.
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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