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Natural Fibromyalgia Treatment Gets Better, Faster Results
Jun 12, 2008
Natural Fibromyalgia Treatment Gets Better, Faster Results

There are many, including doctors, who have questioned whether fibromyalgia is a valid illness, but don't tell that to the few million who suffer from otherwise inexplicable pain. To them, the introduction of a drug, pregabalin [Lyrica], that treats the symptoms of fibromyalgia represented both validation and hope for some help. Lyrica was first approved as an anti seizure medication and then used off label for fibromyalgia... in 2007 it became the first FDA approved drug for treatment of this condition.
However, the side effects of Lyrica can be so severe that even people who are suffering should give long and careful thought before they take it. Possible side effects include muscle weakness, dizziness, sleep disorders, blurred vision, loss of balance or coordination, easy bruising and bleeding. Weight gain is yet another potential side effect, which is problematic since excess weight is common among people with fibromyalgia.
GOOD NEWS FOR FIBROMYALGIA SUFFERERS
The good news is that since fibromyalgia symptoms are similar to arthritis, there are many natural and less risky treatment options that can ease the pain and reduce symptoms. Regular Daily Health News contributor, naturopathic physician Mark Stengler, ND, says that he has found that natural therapies work so well and with so few side effects that there's every reason to turn to these first. He points out that Lyrica may not be effective for everyone, in one clinical trial Lyrica effectively helped reduce pain in only one in four patients, making the gamble on the merits of taking the drug even more precarious.
Dr. Stengler says that the fascinating thing about fibromyalgia is that there is no single root cause. Rather, it can result from any of a number of very different causes or catalysts, including injury such as whiplash, food allergies, hormone imbalances [low thyroid, for example], digestive problems, metal toxicity, neurotransmitter imbalances and more. What's common to all of these conditions, he says, is that they leave the cells unable to produce sufficient energy, causing pain signals to be released indiscriminately. Most fibromyalgia patients Dr. Stengler sees complain about insomnia, fatigue, muscle pain, tender points [spots tender to the touch], depression and digestive problems. Patients are more often women then men, typically between the ages of 40 and 60, which indicates that hormones may have something to do with the problem. Indeed, Dr. Stengler says he often starts the testing process by evaluating hormone balances, including cortisol and DHEA, as well as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and thyroid hormones. For patients who have a history of eating fish that may contain mercury [this includes deep water fish such as tuna, swordfish and shark] or who have several mercury fillings, he tests for metal toxicity since this can cause an increase in perceived pain. He may also measure how well digestion and nutrient absorption are functioning, since these factors too can amplify symptoms. Other possible tests Dr. Stengler may order are to investigate levels of neurotransmitters [through urine testing] and vitamin D serum levels, which can affect pain receptors. These tests all provide valuable information on how to treat a particular individual's symptoms.
NATURAL TREATMENTS WORK BETTER AND FASTER
Once he has determined that a patient has fibromyalgia, Dr. Stengler prescribes a number of substances aimed at keeping the disease from getting worse, and hopefully even reversing it. They are:
Calcium and magnesium, to relax tight muscles and calm nerves
Vitamin D, which reduces inflammation
5 HTP and SAMe increase serotonin, leading to reduction in pain signals
MSM as a natural anti inflammatory
Sugar D ribose to improve energy production within cells
Neprinol, which was specifically formulated to stop and reverse fibromyalgia and may be effective for some.
Dr. Stengler also gives patients specific homeopathic substances to reduce muscle pain, including Rhus Tox [for stiffness and muscle ache that gets worse in cold weather], Cimicifuga racemosa [for muscle pain that feels like bruising, especially helpful when fibromyalgia affects the neck to mid back] and Bryonia alba [for muscle and joint pain that is worse with motion].
Patients are also tested for food sensitivities and instructed to avoid foods that can aggravate symptoms. All patients with fibromyalgia are prescribed an anti inflammatory diet with lots of cold water fish [ones that don't contain significant mercury, including salmon and sardines] along with loads of vegetables, and moderate amounts of fruit, nuts and lean red meat. Dr. Stengler has patients add anti inflammatory spices, turmeric, garlic, onions and ginger, for example, to their diet as well, and for those with poor digestion he prescribes digestive enzymes. For pain and stress management he occasionally recommends chiropractic and/or acupuncture treatments, and he advises patients to develop good stress control habits... deep breathing, exercise, and, when appropriate to the patient, prayer.
Many patients tell him they notice improvement within two to four weeks, says Dr. Stengler. Nearly all find that within eight to 10 weeks they have obvious or significant improvement in their fibromyalgia, with the pain receding considerably or sometimes even completely. Patients go on to lead normal lives, some continuing to stay on the supplement regimen, while others are able to reduce it quite a lot.
Fibromyalgia responds so well to natural treatment that Dr. Stengler believes it's the best first line approach for everyone who suspects they may have it. Even for those who opt to take drugs, it's a good idea to ask your doctor if you can take natural substances to complement your treatment. Seek a doctor [such as a naturopathic doctor] who treats holistically, to monitor and serve as a guide on your journey back to a pain free life.
Source[s]:
Mark A. Stengler, ND, a naturopathic physician and leading authority on the practice of alternative and integrated medicine. He is director of the La Jolla Whole Health Clinic, La Jolla, California, and associate clinical professor at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, Oregon.
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Posted: Jun 12, 2008 6:26pm
The Complaining Epidemic
Feb 10, 2008
The Complaining Epidemic

Chronic complainers are all around us. They moan about the weather and the traffic. They insist that the waiter is too slow... gas is too expensive... and nothing today is as good as it used to be. They seem perpetually upset about everything they see in the world. Reality: Most chronic complainers simply feel disconnected and lonely. Complaining is just their way of getting the attention they crave.
Here's how to help a chronic complainer, someone you know or even yourself, kick the habit...
ATTENTION GETTING
The type of attention complainers receive isn't the sort they really want, but they usually don't know how to get any other kind. A chronic complainer often hasn't learned how to ask for a hug from his/her spouse or find a sympathetic ear for a heartfelt conversation. Complainers don't realize that their complaining drives away friends and relations, causing them to lose the attention they crave.
Most chronic complainers learned this behavior as children. Either their parents gave them attention when they whined or they witnessed complaining by one or both of their parents.
Other behaviors people use to get attention when they don't know how to ask for it include feigning or imagining illnesses... having intentional "accidents"... being chronically late for meetings and events that can't start without them... and endlessly seeking assistance on minor matters.
Example: A nervous flier might buzz the flight attendant repeatedly for pillows and drink refills because he is unwilling to admit that he is afraid of air travel and needs reassurance.
VALID COMPLAINTS
Sometimes we have legitimate reasons to complain. If the phone company overcharges us, of course we'll call and get the bill corrected. If a waiter delivers the wrong order, we bring it to his attention. If a spouse forgets to do a chore, we might mention the oversight. These are productive complaints. We're not just harping on a problem, we're suggesting a specific course of action to remedy the situation.
At times, it's even useful to voice nonproductive complaints about problems that our listeners can't fix. Doing so might help relieve stress... provide a group with a topic of conversation... or even bond strangers together.
Example: If you live in an area with chronically bad traffic, sharing traffic horror stories can forge a sense of kinship.
However, we must be extremely careful when we voice these nonproductive complaints that they don't become a habit.
HELPING OTHERS TO STOP COMPLAINING
If there's a chronic complainer in your life, try to get to the bottom of what's really bothering him. Odds are, the complainer is feeling dismissed, invisible, ignored or powerless... unloved, alone or unsupported by friends, family or coworkers... belittled, insulted or criticized. How to help...
If you can't figure out exactly what's wrong, ask the complainer directly. This person might be desperate for someone to take an interest. Try to focus the chronic complainer's wide-ranging complaints by responding with "What do you really need?" or "What's really bothering you?" Then search for ways to show a complainer that he is loved, supported and valued. Compliment him... give him a hug... offer to help with a difficult task.
Become the complainer's cheerleader. Provide nonjudgmental support under all circumstances. If you would like to offer the complainer advice, first ask for permission to do so, to reduce the odds that he will view your guidance as criticism.
Don't get upset if you are on the receiving end of complaints. Chronic complainers tend to complain to whoever makes them feel the most comfortable, even if he/she isn't the person who's causing their problems.
Example: People who feel disrespected at work frequently look for any excuse to complain to a spouse, parent or friend. These complainers aren't comfortable enough at work to complain there.
DO YOU COMPLAIN TOO MUCH?
If you feel that you yourself are a chronic complainer...
Listen to your words. Are you quick to find fault? Do you often sound negative, perhaps without meaning to? Listen to what others say about you. Has anyone ever accused you of complaining too much?
Make an effort to sound more upbeat. Rather than recount your day in a way that makes it seem frustrating and painful, put a positive spin on it.
Example: Simply ending an anecdote about a tough day at the office with "Everything's so much better now that I'm home with you!" turns a complaint into a compliment for your spouse.
Think twice about voicing a complaint about something that your listener can't correct. There's an old joke about the mother who gives her son two ties for Christmas. When he puts one on, she asks, "What's the matter? Don't you like the other one?" When we put friends and loved ones in no-win situations, we damage our relationships.
Phrase a complaint so that it sounds like a shared problem, not an accusation, when you absolutely must complain about the behavior of someone close to you.
Example: Rather than "I've told you a million times to pick up your laundry and you still don't do it," try "If you pick up your laundry, we can get started on the wash so that we won't have to be bothered with it this weekend."
Never complain to family members the minute they get home. They will start to dread walking through the door, and because their minds might still be elsewhere when they first get home, such complaints are more likely to be ignored. Give your loved ones at least 15 minutes to relax, then ask if there is anything you can do for them before raising the problem.
Consider the cause of your chronic complaining. Could it stem from a need for attention or to feel more useful or loved? If so, consider volunteering your time to a charity... adopting a pet... or offering to babysit a neighbor's children. All of these can help you feel needed and loved.
Source[s]:
Alice Aspen March, creator of The Attention Factor! workshops, which help participants get and give life-enhancing attention, 12320 Montana Ave., Los Angeles 90049. www.theattentionfactor.com
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Posted: Feb 10, 2008 12:06pm
Hormones and Your Mind
Feb 8, 2008
Hormones and Your Mind

Do you ever feel so irritable, anxious or muddle-headed that you wonder if you're losing your mind? Blame it on hormones.
Encouraging: Hormone therapy [HT] often can prevent or correct much of the moodiness and mental decline associated with menopause. Such improvements usually occur after just a month or so of HT. Some women improve dramatically.
Discouraging: Most women who could benefit from HT are not getting it, because most doctors are wary about prescribing it.
The Big Four
Of the body's many hormones, four particularly affect brain function at midlife...
Estrogen helps to maintain the strength and structural integrity of our brain cells and protects against damage to them. When estrogen levels are low, the brain actually can atrophy. Low levels of estrogen can lead to memory loss and mood swings, and may even contribute to Alzheimer's disease.
In addition, estrogen regulates blood flow to many parts of the brain that affect cognitive function. Brain nerve cells communicate with one another by secreting chemical neurotransmitters that influence reasoning, emotions and other brain functions.
Certain brain cells have dendrites, delicate twig-like structures with tiny spines that pick up messages carried by neurotransmitters. These spines depend on estrogen and testosterone to remain healthy. As women age and these hormones decline, some of these spines are lost, so communication between brain cells is impaired. Women may begin to feel anxious and find it hard to sleep or to concentrate. Estrogen therapy can help to maintain the health of these spines.
Estrogen also may improve the effectiveness of antidepressant medications. Studies show that some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine [Prozac], may work more quickly, more effectively and/or for a greater percentage of postmenopausal women when estrogen therapy also is used.
Testosterone is often thought of as a male hormone, but women produce it, too. Testosterone influences areas of the brain that regulate learning and memory, as well as sexual responsiveness. As testosterone levels decline gradually with age, a woman may have more trouble concentrating. Low testosterone also causes the sexual center in the female brain to shrink, resulting in lowered desire.
Women's testosterone levels are naturally lower than men's. Fortunately, even these low levels now can be measured accurately with blood tests. For some women, low-dose testosterone therapy provides increased energy, improved mood and a reinvigorated libido.
Progesterone regulates menstruation, prepares the body for pregnancy and modulates the effects of estrogen, which in excess amounts can cause cancer. Progesterone also affects the brain. But whereas estrogen and testosterone have an antidepressant action, progesterone can have a depressant effect, causing mood swings and irritability in some women. Progesterone also has a negative effect on sex drive. The highest progesterone levels occur prior to each monthly menstrual period and are related to symptoms of PMS. Levels of progesterone decline gradually during perimenopause [the years during which the body transitions into menopause] and become quite low after menopause.
Thyroid hormone regulates metabolism for the whole body. In the brain, it appears to aid the activity of neurotransmitters. A midlife drop in thyroid hormone levels is thought to be related to the drop in estrogen at menopause. More than 10% of women over age 55 develop mild hypothyroidism [low thyroid hormone levels], which can cause mood swings and/or depression. This can be treated with thyroid hormone therapy.
HT Fears Calmed
Until five years ago, HT was the standard treatment for menopausal symptoms, including moodiness, memory problems, hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It also appeared to protect against heart disease and osteoporosis [brittle bones]. But in July 2002, the Women's Health Initiative [WHI], a large clinical trial sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, reported that estrogen therapy increased the risk for heart attack, stroke, blood clots and breast cancer, so doctors stopped prescribing it. What we know now that we didn't know then...
Participants' average age was 63, much older than most women for whom HT is recommended today. Older WHI participants were already at increased risk for heart attack and stroke before they entered the study. Here's why: Estrogen protects against arterial disease, as shown by a recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine. Most WHI subjects had not been on estrogen therapy prior to the study and therefore were prone to develop arterial disease. When women with diseased arteries are given estrogen, the hormone may trigger blood clots that can lead to heart attack and stroke.
WHI subjects who had not had a hysterectomy were given daily estrogen and progestin [a synthesized pharmaceutical with effects similar to progesterone]. This combination is now known to increase the incidence of heart attack, stroke and breast cancer.
New: A reevaluation of WHI data shows that for women under age 60 who are less than 10 years past menopause, estrogen therapy generally is safe and protects against heart disease. It is sometimes appropriate for women in their 60s who have no signs of heart disease.
Important: Women who have not had a hysterectomy and who take estrogen also should take progesterone to protect against uterine cancer. But since daily progesterone may increase the risk for breast cancer and heart attack, many doctors now advise taking it for only about 10 days per month.
To find an endocrinologist or gynecologist who is up to date on the safest, most effective ways to use HT, contact the nearest medical center associated with a medical school. Best results come from an HT regimen that is tailored to a woman's individual needs.
Sourcse[s]:
Edward L. Klaiber, MD, a leading researcher and clinician in the field of psycho-neuro-endocrinology. He is consultant endocrinologist at UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts. Dr. Klaiber is the author of Hormones and the Mind: A Woman's Guide to Enhancing Mood, Memory, and Sexual Vitality [HarperCollins].
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Posted: Feb 8, 2008 12:00pm
Onions, Garlic and Scallions Add Big Flavor and Health Benefits
Feb 7, 2008
Onions, Garlic and Scallions Add Big Flavor and Health Benefits

Spicy, aromatic and full of flavor, onions, garlic and scallions are prized around the world for their culinary uses and health benefits, and now, new studies are validating their medicinal value. Together with leeks, shallots and chives, these are in the allium family of vegetables, which have been shown to help stimulate immune responses, inhibit blood clotting, battle cancer cells and viruses, and act as powerful antioxidants. Clearly there are impressive benefits to adding alliums to your day.
POTENT HEALTH PROMOTERS
According to Leo Galland, MD, internist and author of The Fat Resistance Diet, scientists believe components in alliums including allyl sulfer compounds and bioflavonoids may play an important role in reducing incidence of cancer and heart disease. A study from the National Cancer Institute found that eating 10 grams [approximately two teaspoons] or more of garlic, onions or scallions a day helped reduce the incidence of prostate cancer by about 50% compared with those who ate less than 2.2 grams a day. Previous studies have also shown allium vegetables may help reduce risk of stomach, colon, esophagus, endometrial and possibly breast cancer. Additionally, Dr. Galland noted that a study conducted at Case Western Reserve University found that garlic consumption was inversely associated with polyps [tumors] in the large intestine. Polyps, even though benign, can develop into cancer.
While a highly publicized clinical trial at Stanford University published last year found that garlic did not lower cholesterol in people whose levels were moderately elevated, another indicated that garlic produced more beneficial effects on cholesterol in women than in men. News reports of the trial with the negative finding failed to specify that the cholesterol-lowering effects of garlic may not be equal in all people. Dr. Galland pointed out that the trial included a large percentage of healthy people and may therefore have missed an effect that might have been seen if those studied were patients with diabetes or heart disease. Also, there is intense focus on the connection between cholesterol and heart disease, but it may be that the benefits of garlic in preventing heart disease are due to multiple factors other than just changes in cholesterol. In particular, clinical studies have shown that regular consumption of garlic has anti-hypertensive effects and may help prevent unhealthy blood clotting and decrease calcium deposits and the size of arterial plaque in coronary arteries.
HOW TO ADD ALLIUMS TO YOUR DAY
As part of a well balanced, nutritious diet, eating two teaspoons a day of garlic or two tablespoons of onions or scallions, chopped or crushed is recommended. When shopping, look for the freshest alliums and buy organic whenever you can. Onions should be very firm with an intact dry outer layer. For garlic, look for a fresh bulb with tightly packed cloves, preferably organic and grown in the US. Pick scallions, chives or leeks that are green and skip any that are wilted. Always soak your scallions or leeks in warm water and rinse well before using.
Chopped onions or garlic are the starting point for many cooked dishes, adding robust flavor to main courses, soups and omelets. A sprinkle of chopped scallions or chives makes a perfect garnish to add flavor to dips, sandwiches, salads and grilled dishes. While it is not known if heat affects the beneficial properties of alliums, some research suggests that cooking does not diminish the protective effects of leeks and onions. For a delicious and easy side dish, try this recipe for caramelized onion. Simply slice one large onion and sauté slowly in a half teaspoon of olive oil on medium heat, stirring frequently. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until the onion turns soft and golden, which brings out its natural sweetness. For more delicious ways to enjoy alliums, including a one-day free trial of recipes, visit www.fatresistancediet.com.
Source[s]:
Leo Galland, MD, is internationally recognized as a leader in the field of nutritional medicine. He is director of the Foundation for Integrated Medicine and author of Power Healing [Random House].
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Posted: Feb 7, 2008 3:57pm
Drugstore Medical Clinics Scorecard
Feb 7, 2008
Drugstore Medical Clinics Scorecard

Americans spend double what residents of many other industrializedcountries do on health care, yet we still have a hard time getting appointments with our doctors and so we often go without treatment for illnesses and injuries. A new solution available in many states is retail-based medical clinics, making walk-in clinics even more convenient by locating them in drugstores, supermarkets and other convenient facilities. These may not be the solution to the health care crisis at large, but I believe walk-in clinics can fill a void by providing very basic care in a far more accessible way.
SO MUCH MORE CONVENIENT...
With the elite concierge medical practices [for more on concierge medicine, see Daily Health News, October 3, 2005] on one end of the spectrum, these are at the other, with care that is down-to-earth and convenient to all. Medical professionals are on staff to treat simple-to-diagnose problems, such as a strep test for a sore throat or a case of poison ivy. They also offer flu shots. Some are operated by independent organizations or hospitals. And, of course, they offer convenient one-stop shopping in that you can even fill your prescription right there, if medication is required.
It's all good for the consumer, but no surprise, some physicians are up in arms complaining that store-based and walk-in clinics pose a threat to patient safety, not to mention their own profit margins. For an unbiased consumer perspective on the matter, I spoke with patient advocate Trisha Torrey, about.com's expert on patient empowerment and a syndicated newspaper columnist. She agrees that walk-in clinics offer real benefits for consumers, as long as they are used with appropriate caution.
EASY ACCESS, LOWER FEES
In addition to the fact that many retail clinics are open weekends, evenings and holidays, the average visit, including waiting time, at retail clinics takes just 15 to 25 minutes, according to the Convenient Care Association [www.convenientcareassociation.org, an organization made up of convenient care clinics across the nation]. This is quite a bargain in terms of time, especially when I think of my last doctor's visit. Even with an appointment, I waited two hours... and I know that's not an unusual experience nowadays. Torrey says prices are lower at walk-in clinics, and therefore it's not just time but also money you save by using walk-in clinics for medical care. This is especially important for people who are uninsured or under-insured and must pay out-of-pocket for their care.
Many insurance plans allow treatment at retail clinics and, in fact, the CCA estimates that 70% of people who visit store-based clinics have health insurance and are using the clinics primarily for convenience. In those cases, the same insurance co-payments apply as with doctors' offices. Insurance plans vary so Torrey advises confirming your company's policy in advance. For example, some plans require you to call for preapproval if you go to any office other than your own provider [e.g., on a weekend]. Otherwise, unless it is a bona fide emergency such as a car accident, not a Sunday morning sore throat, they won't cover it.
SAFETY CONCERNS PERSIST
Still it is valid to raise questions about safety. Some states require a physician on the premises at all times, while others merely mandate that one is on call. Among the concerns doctors list are no continuity of care, the lack of familiarity with patients' medical histories and "less-than-expert treatment" delivered by nurse practitioners and physician assistants, rather than primary care physicians, though in truth, these professionals often do the same work in private physician practices as well. Symptoms can be difficult to interpret, Torrey notes. A seemingly innocuous problem, like a bad cough, may be a sign of something more serious than a cold. While there's no guarantee your physician would diagnose this correctly either, the fact that he/she has more training and immediate access to your medical history makes it likelier a more complicated illness would be correctly identified and treated before serious problems arise.
The American Medical Association [AMA] is calling on state and federal governments to investigate how clinics are run and place regulations on what they do. A major reason for this is that many walk-in medical clinics are joint ventures with store-based pharmacies. This opens the door to a potential conflict of interest, since drugstores clearly stand to make money from the prescriptions written in their clinics.
THE DOS AND DON'TS OF DRUGSTORE CLINICS
Torrey offered tips on how to use walk-in retail clinics safely and to your best advantage:
Don't go to a drugstore clinic for serious medical problems. If you have chest pain or trouble breathing, for example, call 911. Likewise, walk-in clinics may not be a good idea for people with other health issues, like cancer or even diabetes. You may be better off seeing your primary care physician.
Research options in advance. As noted above, depending on your particular state's regulations, you may be seen by a nurse practitioner, physician assistant or other "physician extender," says Torrey, while others have doctors in attendance at all times. It's a really good idea to call around before you need to visit such a clinic, so you know in advance where to go for the best care when you are sick.
Ask about the clinic's policy on prescriptions. Also best done in advance, Torrey recommends that you ask staff what they would do if you wanted to fill your prescription elsewhere. How they respond offers insight into how the clinic operates. If prescriptions written by their medical practitioners can only be filled in their facilities, you may want to seek care elsewhere.
Bring a list of all drugs and supplements you take and the dosages. This is the single best way to avoid medical errors such as potentially dangerous drug interactions. Also, check beforehand whether you are up-to-date on immunizations, such as tetanus shots, as this can sometimes affect treatment.
Request copies of all medical records of your visit and make sure your regular physician receives these. While many say they do this automatically, Torrey cautions that they don't always follow through.
The best advice on retail medical clinics is to use simple common sense. If you're in good health and have a minor medical issue, you may indeed find that walk-in medical clinics offer some advantages, including easy access, short waits and low prices. Those with chronic or serious health problems do better to seek conventional medical treatment. These clinics are best used for treating illness and aren't targeted to achieving wellness.
Source[s]:
Trisha Torrey, syndicated columnist, Syracuse Post Standard and Knoxville News Sentinel WELL Magazine, host, SUNY Upstate Medical University's HealthLink On Air in upstate New York and author, "Patient Empowerment" on about.com. Visit her blog at EveryPatientsAdvocate.com.
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Posted: Feb 7, 2008 3:55pm
Heart Disease Warning for Diabetics
Feb 5, 2008
Heart Disease Warning for Diabetics

Diabetes gets a lot of press nowadays, which, fortunately, has prompted many patients to take greater care to control their blood sugar levels. Unfortunately, reducing blood sugar won't offer much in the way of protection against cardiovascular disease. This is a very real risk for people with diabetes... and one that few seem to grasp. A recent national survey reported that "a startling" 82% of people with type 2 diabetes are unaware of this connection, and that's of even greater concern given the findings of a study from the University of Alberta [Edmonton, Canada] that evaluated how diabetes impacts stroke risk in the first five years post-diagnosis. The study was published in the June 2007 issue of the journal Stroke.
Thomas Jeerakathil, MD, assistant professor of neurology at the university, was the lead author of this first study examining the link between stroke risk and diabetes immediately after diagnosis and initiation of treatment, previous studies had evaluated longer-term impact, 10 to 15 years later. Since both stroke and heart attack stem from the same set of problems, Dr. Jeerakathil notes that although this study specifically concerned stroke, it is likely that the risk for heart attack is very similar. 12,272 people recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were monitored for a period of five years, with the finding that diabetes doubles the risk of stroke within that time. That risk is even more dramatic for those aged 30 to 44, their relative risk is fivefold over those who don't have diabetes.
CONTROLLING BLOOD SUGAR DOESN'T FIGHT HEART DISEASE
Previous research suggests that a focus on blood sugar control alone does little to stem cardiovascular risks, so Dr. Jeerakathil stresses that people with diabetes should also make living a heart-healthy lifestyle a priority, right from the start. It's important to maintain an optimum blood pressure level, a healthy weight and waist-to-hip ratio, follow a low-fat diet and get plenty of exercise.
Dr. Jeerakathil believes statins [cholesterol-reducing medications] are in order for many people with diabetes, since the diagnosis itself puts them in the same CVD risk category as people who've had at least one heart attack. For those who have already had a stroke or heart attack, he strongly recommends statins. As we've discussed previously in Daily Health News, it is possible to balance cholesterol naturally, without risk of the side effects associated with statin use. A naturopathic physician can provide support and expertise in improving diet, lifestyle and using nutritional supplements to meet health goals... and work collaboratively with other members of your team, ideally a cardiologist to manage CVD risk and an endocrinologist to monitor your diabetes, to help make sure you live long and well.
Source[s]:
Thomas Jeerakathil, MD, assistant professor of neurology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
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Posted: Feb 5, 2008 12:16pm
Homeopathic First Aid
Feb 5, 2008
Homeopathic First Aid

I find it interesting that homeopathic medicine draws on exactly the same principles as vaccines and allergy treatments, though it is usually considered "alternative." All three are based on the principle that "like cures like," where exposure to a small amount of a substance, disease or allergen provokes a reaction in the patient that then serves to protect against it. This concept is at the core of homeopathy, a medical tradition growing increasingly popular, including among many of my closest friends and coworkers. One big supporter of homeopathy is Mark Stengler, ND, he regularly talks about the value of these remedies in his practice, so I asked him to tell me about some of his favorites.
THE BASIC PRINCIPLE: LIKE CURES LIKE
In homeopathy, pain or symptoms of an illness are understood to be how the body tries to heal itself. This approach to medicine seeks in the short term to stimulate, not discourage, natural healing mechanisms, such as fever and inflammation. Using the "law of similars," the tiny remedy pellets incite many of the symptoms that characterize the illness the body is battling in order to stimulate the healing process. This is very different from conventional medicine, which instead acts to suppress symptoms.
Homeopathic remedies are made from plants, minerals and animal products. The usual homeopathic dosage is two pellets of a 12C or 30C potency ["C" potency is a 1/100 dilution] two to four times a day, but it's important to carefully follow package directions or the dosing instructions of a trained homeopath. Remedies are dissolved under the tongue. Avoid touching the pills with your hands, since contact with dirt or oil on the skin may inactivate the material, instead try pouring them into the plastic lid of the container and from there, into your mouth. Once symptoms begin to respond, stop taking the remedy and see if an improvement settles in. If some symptoms remain, you may then clear them altogether by taking the remedy a little longer, for acute attacks look for improvement within minutes to an hour... for chronic disease it may take one to two weeks to notice improvement.
DR. STENGLER'S FAVORITE REMEDIES
Among Dr. Stengler's favorite homeopathic remedies are...
Apis, for Skin Reactions
Derived from the venom of the honeybee, Dr. Stengler prescribes Apis for stinging, burning, swelling and itching. It may be useful for bee stings, arthritis, urinary tract infections, herpes, sore throat, hives and other allergic reactions. This is an example of how a remedy can sometimes work for disparate ailments, since similar biochemical processes are at root. Note: Apis does not replace conventional medical treatment for severe allergic reactions.
Arnica, for Bruises and Muscle Aches
Dr. Stengler said if he had to choose just one homeopathic medicine to use, it would be Arnica. This anti-inflammatory preparation made from the mountain daisy is excellent at soothing bruises, aches, pains, swelling and other physical trauma. It also may provide relief for muscle soreness, such as from exercise. A recent study showed that Arnica helps recovery from plastic surgery. Arnica is also available as a topical cream or gel.
Cantharis, for Burns
This preparation from the blister beetle is used for burns and urinary tract infections. The beetle contains the chemical cantharidin, which when concentrated causes blisters and skin inflammation. Based on the homeopathic principle of "like cures like," this makes cantharis the ideal remedy for burns.
Gelsemium, for the Flu
A classic flu remedy that was used to reduce duration and soothe symptoms during the devastating 1918 flu epidemic, Gelsemium is particularly beneficial for flu sufferers who experience fatigue, lethargy and shakiness. Dr. Stengler also prescribes it more generally for fatigue and headaches.
Ignatia, for Anxiety
Dr. Stengler frequently prescribes this medicine to relieve emotional distress and anxiety. In his opinion, many stressed-out type A's would benefit from taking Ignatia amara... in addition to trying other stress management techniques such as prayer, exercise and deep breathing. Ignatia may be especially helpful taken daily during stressful periods such as a divorce or the loss of a loved one. It does not take away all of the emotional pain, but it reduces the intensity.
Nux vomica, for Nausea and Heartburn
Derived from an East Indian plant we call Quaker's buttons, Nux vomica is most commonly used for stomach cramps, nausea and heartburn. Many people also find it helpful for anxiety and irritability, and as a hangover remedy.
Rhus toxicodendron, for Poison Ivy
Rhus toxicodendron, often shortened to Rhus tox., consists of the homeopathic dilution of poison ivy, which with direct contact causes a blistering rash. Again recalling the principle of "like cures like," the salve form is one of the best skin remedies for poison ivy. You can also use it for arthritis, back strain and cold sores.
Sulphur, for Skin Ailments
Dr. Stengler considers this one of the most profound and long-lasting of all homeopathic remedies. He prescribes it for skin ailments such as rashes, eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, sulphur can be taken for digestive disturbances, insomnia and headaches.
FINDING A HOMEOPATHIC PHYSICIAN
Remedies are economically priced, readily available at health food stores and drugstores and, because they have few side effects, lend themselves easily to self-care for uncomplicated problems such as muscle soreness or a stomachache. For overall guidance and to treat more complex health problems, and most especially if you are pregnant or suffer from a chronic medical problem such as diabetes or heart disease, it's best to consult a medical practitioner trained in homeopathy. Homeopathic physicians carefully calibrate treatment to suit each individual, taking into account not only symptoms but also a person's emotional state, lifestyle and other factors. To learn more about homeopathy and/or locate a practitioner in your area, visit the Web site of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians at www.naturopathic.org... or the National Center for Homeopathy at www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org.
Source[s]:
Mark Stengler, ND, author of The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies [Bottom Line Books]. Dr. Stengler practices naturopathic medicine at the La Jolla Whole Health Clinic, La Jolla, California. To learn more about his work, visit www.drstengler.com.
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