Nutrition Month

Showing posts with label eczema. Show all posts
Showing posts with label eczema. Show all posts

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Omega supplementation



 I usually recommend Omega supplementation to almost everyone, but especially people with Hypertension, Cholesterol, Diabetes, Thyroid disease, Constipation, IBS, Eczema, Psoriasis and Depression

Some people avoid fish because they don't like the taste or because of the potential for mercury contamination. If this is your situation, then you can do one of two things. You can increase your intake of plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, or you can take omega-3 supplements.
Cold-water oily fish, like salmon, herring and tuna, are good sources for the omega-3 fatty acids, but there are plenty of plant-based sources of omega-3s you can eat if you don't want to consume fish. Plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids include flax seeds, canola oil, soy, walnuts and pumpkin seeds. Research suggests eating flax seeds may help to prevent cardiovascular disease, but the evidence is not as strong for flax as it is for fish oil and fish oil supplements.

Dietary modification to increase the consumption of cold-water fish (eg, salmon) rich in polyunsaturated fats may help to raise HDL-C. Capsules containing omega-3 fatty acids (1.48 g of docosahexaenoic acid + 1.88 g of eicosapentaenoic acid) have been formulated and are commercially available in some parts of the world (as Omacor). In a recent small study in patients with familial combined hyperlipidemia, treatment with this formulation for 8 weeks increased HDL-C by 8%, particularly the more buoyant HDL2 subfraction.
The Studies Look Promising…

The usual dose used in these studies ranges between 900 mg and 5 grams a day of a combination of EPA and DHA. In order to achieve this amount, one would need to consume a lot of fish. Therefore, supplements are typically used. Ingesting 900 mg of omega-3 fatty acids each day resulted in a 4-percent decrease in triglyceride levels after six months. The average effective dose used in most studies was between 2 to 4 grams, and this resulted in an average drop in triglycerides between 25 to 45 percent. The effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids on triglycerides is dose-dependent, meaning that the more omega-3 fatty acids ingested, the lower your triglyceride levels will fall. This works best when following a healthy diet. Omega-3 fatty acids seemed to affect recently ingested triglycerides more. Additionally, individuals with extremely high triglyceride levels (greater than 500 mg/dL) seem to derive the most benefit from omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.




Also see my Niacin Blog for suggestions on increasing HDL.


You will notice that one of the supplements have CoQ10. It has been studied for congestive heart failure and I have recommended that people at future risk of heart disease add this to their regimen. You will need two of these to approach the content of the other products on this page. CoQ10 is known to be highly concentrated in heart muscle cells due to the high energy requirements of this cell type. For the past 14 years, the great bulk of clinical work with CoQ10 has focused on heart disease. Specifically, congestive heart failure (from a wide variety of causes) has been strongly correlated with significantly low blood and tissue levels of CoQ10. The severity of heart failure correlates with the severity of CoQ10 deficiency. It is naturally present in small amounts in a wide variety of foods but is particularly high in organ meats such as heart, liver and kidney, as well as beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel, and peanuts. To put dietary CoQ10 intake into perspective, one pound of sardines, two pounds of beef, or two and one half pounds of peanuts, provide 30 mg of CoQ10.
Testing is available. http://www.gdx.net/core/one-page-test-descriptions/Essential-Metabolic-Fatty-Acids-Test-Description.pdf http://www.metametrix.com/files/test-menu/sample-reports/Fatty-Acids-Bloodspot-SR.pdf
FDA Disclaimer

The statements and products shown on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration.

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified integrative physician prior to using our products if possible.


Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Natural Hemorrhoid relief

A hemorrhoid is a swollen or inflamed vein in the rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins you might see on a person's legs.

Hemorrhoids are typically caused by an increase of pressure in the veins of the lower rectum.

Types Of Hemorrhoids

There are two types of hemorrhoids that you should be aware of, they are...

Internal hemorrhoids are characterized by the bulging out of veins from the anus and by a bloodstained stool.
External hemorrhoids are characterized by an abnormal growth around the rectal region. This growth may be accompanied by irritation, itching and a burning sensation around the affected area - and sometimes blood alongside the stool.
Hemorrhoid Causes

Here are some of the most common causes of hemorrhoids...

Standing or sitting for long periods of time
Straining with bowel movements - Usually caused by constipation or hard stools
Sitting on the toilet for a long time
Diarrhea
Heavy Lifting
Insufficient intake of fluids
Severe coughing
Pregnancy or childbirth
Obesity
Genetics
Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of hemorrhoids is the first step towards properly treating and preventing them. Here are some of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids...

Irritation and/or itching in the rectal area
Swelling in the anus or internal anal area
Difficulty or obstruction in passing stool
Formation of blood clots inside the anus
Lumps hanging from the anus - Noticed in more advanced stages of hemorrhoids
Prevention Of Hemorrhoids

There are several preventive steps you can take to help relieve some of the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing. By following these steps, you will find relief from existing hemorrhoids - and help prevent future hemorrhoids from occurring.

When you have the urge for a bowel movement, do not delay - Go immediately
Follow a high fiber diet - Take fiber supplements if needed
Increase fluid intake - Drink plenty of pure drinking water to help soften the stool
Perform a colon cleansing program to help empty the large intestines and regulate your bowel movements
Exercise on a regular basis - This will help regulate bowel movements
Keep your anal area dry and clean
Following these preventive steps will help reduce and prevent the build up of waste materials in the large intestine. By doing this, you are reducing your chances of becoming constipated or straining to have bowel movements.

Treating Hemorrhoids

When treating hemorrhoids, the main objective is to relieve the pain and discomfort. Typically, one or more of the following treatments should be used, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids.

Sitz Bath - Soaking the rectal area in hot water
Pain medications, creams, ointments and suppositories (Tucks, Dermoplast, Preparation H, ProctofoamAnusol) Topical medications are used to help shrink the hemorrhoids
Cleansing the entire rectal area with warm water after each bowel movement
Fiber supplements or laxatives to help soften the stool
If you suffer from hemorrhoids and are experiencing the symptoms listed earlier, these treatment recommendations should help you tremendously. It is always recommended to consult with your medical practitioner first.

Colon Cleansing To Prevent Hemorrhoids

The hemorrhoid information I mentioned in the prevention section, shows that performing a colon cleansing program is an effective way to prevent hemorrhoids.

Colon cleansing is a process of clearing out all of the accumulated fecal matter, toxins and other impurities from inside the colon. This accumulated waste material often leads to serious health conditions and diseases - including hemorrhoids.

By combining colon cleansing with the prevention tips listed above, you will be taking safe and effective steps towards preventing and treating your hemorrhoids.




















Topical essential oils are also useful with soothing hemorrhoids.

Sexibalm

The safest and most effective home remedies for painful hemorrhoids are the natural oils or essential oils. As opposed to dry herbs, which require more preparations before they can be used as cold compress or poultice, natural oils are easier and less messy to apply on the affected parts.

Tea tree oil which comes abundantly from Australia is one of the most traditionally proven as effective treatment for inflammations or swelling common to burns, acne and painful hemorrhoids. Studies have shown that its efficiency as natural treatment comes from its antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial ingredients that help strengthen the immune system and thus, prevent infection. It also has mild antiseptic ingredients that can cure the inflamed anal area.

Apply generous amounts of the coconut oil with aromatherapy (Sexibalm) to the affected area at least twice daily for at least 3 days. Whenever you use the bathroom (or at least twice daily), reapply the oil to make sure the area is covered. You should see substantial shrinking (if not the disappearance) of your hemorrhoids within the 3 days.

I have lavender and tea tree with coconut oil available in a topical balm (Sexibalm) and suppositories in the office. Applying essential oils directly to an inflamed area without a carrier substance can be painful and is not recommended.

You could also put lavender and tea tree oils in a Sitz Bath . You could also use herbs.

Chai Yok We have an herbal vaginal detox steam in the office that can also be used for hemorrhoids. The concoction of herbs used in the steam bath could be the main reason why most women experience its health benefits. Mugwort is brewed with other herbs like wormwood. Mugwort helps in detoxification and an antiseptic. It has also an ability to stimulate hormones and keep the uterus healthy. It’s also used for nausea, fatigue and headaches.

Wormwood, on the other hand, helps in treating bladder infections, constipation, fever and induces uterine contractions. The combination of these two powerful herbs will help ease hemorrhoid symptoms like inflammation and pain.

All of the herbs in the tea are antifungal and antibacterial. They help rid your body of toxins and pesticides, fight infections and even help clear up hemorrhoids. There are also some cases where people use the steam bath before they undergo hemorrhoid surgery.  You could also buy the herbs and put them in a Sitz Bath.  Call 832-237-4200 to purchase.




 FDA Disclaimer The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician. The information provided by myself or this website is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with your physician, and should not be construed as individual medical advice. The testimonials on this website are individual cases and do not guarantee that you will get the same results.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Psoriasis and eczema natural treatment

There are many things that help with both eczema and psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a skin condition which cause large reddened scaly patches on the skin. The condition can be limited to a specific area of the body or the whole body may be affected. Psoriasis can occur on just about anywhere on the body and causes a great deal of emotional anguish to the sufferer.

Eczema is a form of atopic dermatitis caused by an allergic reaction of the skin. Eczema is common in infants and young children and though many cases of infantile eczema resolve with age, a large number of people continue to suffer from eczema as adults

Eczema and psoriasis are skin conditions that can share similar symptoms, such as irritation and inflammation, but they are separate diseases. There is no cure for these conditions, but topical treatments and medications exist, and some individuals find that herbal supplements and teas can relieve symptoms.


Aloe vera has been shown to be effective in the treatment of psoriasis. Numerous studies document the wound healing, anti-inflammatory and immune stimulating effects of Aloe Vera. It is vital for all types of skin care and particularly beneficial in the treatment of painful, difficult and/or challenging skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Since eczema and psoriasis are both characterized by inflammation, the anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil make this a perfect treatment option.

Neem oil

Neem oil is a very complex natural oil that contains over 140 active ingredients. Those ingredients have a wide range of uses:

Neem oil is a brilliant emollient, a substance that softens and moistens dry cracked skin. This straight away eliminates a lot of the irritation and itchiness. It moisturizes and protects, and heals any lesions or scaling.

Neem also soothes the redness and irritation directly, through the steroid like effect of some of its ingredients. Yes, neem can affect your skin similar to the way steroids do, but without all the nasty side effects.

Neem oil generally enhances skin health and the natural immunity of your skin, which is one of the biggest factors in psoriasis.

Neem oil is strongly antibacterial, and the benefit of this for psoriasis is obvious. Neem cleans up any skin infections that may have developed because of cracked broken skin (due to dryness or scratching).

Neem is anti-inflammatory, and can reduce the redness and irritation. The two main anti-inflammatory substances in neem are called nimbin and nimbidin, and they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties comparable to common non-steroids (phenylbutazone) and steroidal drugs (prednisole).

Neem is also a strong analgesic (pain killer). Some people report instant relief from the excruciating discomfort, as soon as they apply neem salve or cream to eczema skin.

And neem is antibacterial, and can clean up any secondary infections, or even better, prevent them from happening in the first place.


Tea tree oil

Essential oils can be extremely useful for those suffering from skin conditions, especially tea tree oil. Eczema symptoms often improve quickly after using this essential oil in conjunction with other natural eczema remedies. Why is this? Tea tree oil contains antibacterial properties that help reduce naturally occurring bacteria on the skin. Tea tree oil also helps soothe irritated skin caused by excessive scratching or chaffing.

The medicinal benefits of tea tree oil are impressive. It is effective against psoriasis, candida, skin infections, hemorrhoids, eczema, nail infections, acne and dandruff. Very few side effects have been reported, except from people with allergies to tea tree

Lavender Oil

Lavender Oil can help to relieve the pain and itch and provide some stress relief which boosts the immune system helping to heal the lesions. The cause of the condition is largely unknown and often times many strong creams, lotions and pills are prescribed to treat the problem. UV light treatments are used as well.

Lavender Oil due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal and circulatory stimulating properties has been used as a treatment for Eczema. It is also an immune booster and powerful anti-inflammatory for the skin.

All these qualities help to speed healing and prevent or reduce scarring of the skin. Lavender works to relieve the associated pain and itch that frequently occurs with skin inflammation.


Myrrh Oil

Myrrh oil is used in aromatherapy to revitalize wrinkled and aging skin when blended into a carrier oil like coconut oil. Renowned for thousands of years as an oil prized for beauty, it also has incredibly therapeutic properties for skin maladies, like dry skin, chapped skin, eczema, psoriasis.


Cloves

Cloves contain some of the same phenols as Oil of Oregano, namely carvacrol and thymol, among others, which are highly antifungal in nature, as well as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory.

The effects of clove oil, including its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, have been known and recorded for thousands of years.

Boosting your intake of Omega-3 rich oily fish (mackerel, herring, salmon, tuna, trout, sardines) and other foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can have a massive positive healing effects on eczema.


Coconut Oil

Organic Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids (MFCA) that destroy free radicals—harmful compounds that trigger skin inflammation that also promote the development of skin cancer. Organic Coconut oil may not cure skin diseases overnight, but the moment the oil is applied to the skin, the microbes on the skin will react with the MFCA, transforming them into free fatty acids that help reduce the chronic inflammation that patients with eczema and psoriasis suffer.Cold-pressed coconut oil is quite rich in lauric acid content, another fatty acid with potent anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes cold-pressed coconut oil the perfect topical treatment for the skin, where most bacteria, viruses and fungi make their initial contact.

On top of its therapeutic properties, coconut oil has strong moisturizing powers, an added benefit for individuals with eczema and psoriasis. Because these skin conditions tend to cause dryness of the skin, the hydrating properties of coconut oil will help restore the natural moisture content of the skin. It rarely causes adverse reactions because it is completely organic and free from harmful chemicals and preservatives.

Matcha Green Tea and skin benefits

1. Anti-oxidant/angi-aging – due to it’s extremely high level of anti-oxidants. (the highest ORAC rating food)
2. Anti-inflammatory – due to the caffeine and catechins
3. Anti-microbial – controls blemishes and acne
4. Anti-cancer/fights sun damage – powerful cancer fighting constituents (EGCG)
5. Mildly exfoliant and detoxifying – high chlorophyll content

We have Sexibalm, which has the above ingredients, for inflamed skin, including psoriasis and eczema. Patent pending Call 832-237-4200 to order.

We also have an HCG safe formula for those on the HCG diet.

In addition to promoting positive heart-health, omega-3 fats present in fish oil may help alleviate inflammation and other symptoms associated with eczema and psoriasis.
A daily Omega-3 supplement is recommended since in most cases we can’t get enough from our daily diet.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Taking care of psoriasis from the inside out.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease causing an overproduction of skin cells. This results in thickened patches of skin, which are red and scaly and often itchy and painful. The patches most commonly appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands, feet, back, fingernails and toenails.

Detoxify the bowels and liver to eliminate a possible overgrowth of Candida albicans or other microbes that may be infecting the body. To do that, be sure to drink plenty of water every day (usually 10 to 12 cups) and supplement with a high quality probiotic supplement.

One of the main gut problems in people with psoriasis appears to be faulty digestion of protein; this, in turn, creates excessive toxicity in the bowel, which weakens the gut lining and allows substances to intoxicate the rest of the body. This can lead to skin problems including psoriasis and other forms of inflammation. A digestive enzyme supplement taken with each main meal should also help. The body naturally produces proteolytic enzymes (which digest protein) but may not be producing enough, so taking a source of these may help.-Look out for a formula containing protease - the broad name for enzymes which digest protein.

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, so it follows that fish oil—if it alters immune reactivity—could improve psoriasis.

Milk thistle stops the breakdown of substances that contribute to psoriasis. Some herbal practitioners suggest tea or tincture made with milk thistle to help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.

Lecithin: Lecithin is also considered a remarkable remedy for psoriasis. The patient may take six to nine lecithin capsules a day-two or three capsules before or after each meal. If taken in the form of granules, four tablespoonfuls may be taken daily for two months. The dosage may be reduced thereafter to two tablespoons.

Psorisias and Diet

If your body chemistry is too acid you must eat more alkaline foods to assist psoriasis treatment. You can test your acid/alkaline balance by using simple litmus paper. If your urine is under +7, you are too acid.

Balancing your diet - Acid/Alkaline

When food is metabolised by the body the end products are either acidic or alkaline. Acids are compounds of elements, which give away hydrogen ions, alkalines are compounds of elements which attract hydrogen ions. The body needs both acids and alkalines for its metabolism but we have more difficulty getting rid of acids than alkalines. It is therefore easy for an accumulation of excess acids to occur which can cause us to get rheumatism or skin problems such as psoriasis. To avoid this, aim for a diet which is 70% alkaline and 30% acid. One of the simplest ways to immediately create more alkalinity in your body is to drink so-called superfood powdered drinks. Choose a brand that contains ingredients with high alkaline values such as spinach, broccoli, carrot, wheatgrass, barley grass, chlorella, alfalfa and sprouted grain powders. Many of these ingredients are contained in Green cell Therapy.


Milk thistle, lactobacillus, and digestive enzymes are in Green cell therapy.


Other ingredients:

Wheat Grass juice powder, barley grass juice powder, chlorella, CoQ10, Carrot Juice Powder, Beet Juice Powder, Parsley Leaf Powder, Kale Juice Powder, Grape seed exract, Milk Thistle seed extract, Lycopene, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Quercetin, Dandelion Powder, Spinach Powder, Blue Green Algae, Bee Pollen Powder, Aloe Vera Powder, Flax Seed Powder, Lecithin, Green Tea Extract, Astralagus Powder, Royal Jelly, Brown Rice Powder, Lipase, Lactase, Amyalse, Protease, Bifidobacerium Longum, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Rhamnonsus, Lactobacillus Acidophilus






Light, especially sunlight, has long been known to have healing powers, but it wasn't until the 1980's that science began discovering how specific wavelengths of light could have specific positive effects on human physiology, especially the skin. For instance, today narrowband light is used to treat several skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. And light therapy has also found its way into the cosmetic world as an effective method for skin rejuvenation. We have the Omnilux light. Using the Omnilux Plus combined with the Omnilux Revive offers an alternative to the current treatments for psoriasis without the side effects. Clinical studies show impressive reductions in erythema, surface area, and infiltration of plaque psoriasis when treated with Omnilux light therapy only over a 5 wk period.





Sexibalm contains Coconut oil and various essential oils beneficial for psoriasis. Can be used with the Omnilux light to aid penetration.

Tea Tree Oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is renowned for its special remedial properties and has been used by Australian Aborigines for hundreds of years. Apart from chewing on its leaves, the aborigines used it for treating many skin-ailments, such as burns, cuts, and psoriasis! This essential oil is steam-distilled from a tree native to Australia, and acts as an antiseptic, a mild anaesthetic and a disinfectant, thanks to a compound called ‘terpinen-4-ol’. It is so useful that tea-tree oil became standard issue for Australian soldiers during World War 2! It is also great for treating scalp-psoriasis, and can be mixed directly into the shampoo before every wash.

Lavender Oil is a firm favourite for many – it smells just like that perfume your terrifying elderly aunt uses, and it’s great for psoriasis! It is a species of mint that grows in the Mediterranean, and bears very recognisable purple flowers. The plant has anti-inflammatory compounds called linalool and linalyl aldehyde, and also acts as an antiseptic agent. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Centre has published studies that have demonstrated the benefits of using lavender oil in controlling pain and limiting scaly skin patches.

Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections.

Vitamin E oil, is a natural treatment for Psoriasis. Rubbing Vitamin E directly on the affected skin will help moisturize and heal the skin. This natural oil will also help prevent scarring.

Green tea is already well known to be a powerful anti-inflammatory agent with good astringent properties, which makes it a valuable ingredient in skin cleansers, toners and lotions. If it also "induces capsase 14 production", the missing link in psoriasis, it may be helpful to use a poultice of green tea on such lesions.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Probiotics, a comparison and shopping guide



 A probiotic is an organism which contributes to the health and balance of the intestinal tract. A probiotic is also referred to as the "friendly", "beneficial", or "good" bacteria which when ingested acts to maintain a healthy intestinal tract and help fight illness and disease.

You can add probiotics to your diet through nutritional supplements or foods such as yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, and some juices and soy drinks. Read product labels carefully, looking for a statement that the product contains "live and active cultures," such as lactobacillus.

Although more research is needed, there's encouraging evidence that probiotics may help:

Treat diarrhea, especially following treatment with certain antibiotics
Prevent and treat vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections
Treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Speed treatment of certain intestinal infections
Prevent and treat eczema in children
Prevent or reduce the severity of colds and flu
Some researchers believe probiotics may improve general health.

Most people can safely add probiotic foods to a healthy diet. If you're considering taking probiotic supplements, check with your doctor to make sure the supplements are right for you.Align and Culturelle are probably the two most commonly know probiotic supplements so it is important to understand the differences between them.

The most important point to remember is that each of these supplements contain a different probiotic.

Align Probiotic Bifidobacterium Bifantis)
CFU in one capsule/tablet/dose 1 billion

Culturelle Lactobacillus GG, Inulin (prebiotic)
CFU in one capsule/tablet/dose 10 billion

Do they contain lactose? No
Do they contain milk proteins? Trace amounts
Do they contain gluten? No
Are they proven to survive stomach acid? Yes
Are they proven to adhere? Yes
Are there any possible side effects? Mild short term bloating or gas


Green Cell Therapy has different kind of probiotics, plus digestive enzymes and nutrients. Green Cell Therapy helps repair the body at the cellular level. Each and every cell benefits from the 32 extraordinary ingredients in this superior nutritional formula. The potent natural supplements in this formula improves, digestion, immune function, metabolism, pH balance, cell repair, brain/cognitive function, and has antioxidant ability, scavenging free radicals out of the body.

Contains multiple probiotics Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bifidobacterium Longum, Lactobacillus Casei,& Lactobacillus Rhamnonsus

Wheatgrass and barley grass offer raw energy. Contains billions of beneficial gut organisms. The highest quality green supplement. No artificial colouring, flavouring or preservatives.
It also contains lactase (for those who are lactose intolerant) amylase, lipase,& protease (helps digest food, which is hard work for your colon)
spinach, blue green algae, chlorella, and many other nutrients
Some of my patients have traded their prescription and over the counter heartburn medication for this supplement