Natural Arthritis Treatment
Colleen's Story
 | | Natural Arthritis Treatment.mpg |
For an example of how natural arthritis treatment can help, take the case of Colleen. Colleen presented to my office with a 7+ year history of excruciating joint pain (10 on a scale of 1-10), mostly in her ankle, knees, and hips, for which she was taking high doses of ibuprofen (2400-3600 mg daily). She was also overweight, was very tired (energy level of 3 on a 1-10 scale), was significantly depressed and anxious (18 on a 27 point scale), and had asthma and ADD. She started a low glycemic eating plan (which restricted sugar and grains), cod liver oil, and vitamin D.
When she returned 3 weeks later, she reported significantly less pain (5 out of 10), even after cutting her ibuprofen dose in half. She also reported less fatigue (energy 6 out of 10), and improved mood (12 out of 27 points). At this time she was asked to increase her physical activity and start a detoxification program.
When she returned after another month her pain was almost gone and she was only rarely taking ibuprofen. Her depression was gone (3 out of 27 points), and her energy level was high (8-9 out of 10). She had also shed 5 pounds in the past 4 weeks, and felt that her asthma and mental function were improved.
Introduction
To continue reading, click here
|
The Importance of Preventive Exams
 Many serious health problems don't have symptoms, which is why an annual preventive exam, also called a checkup, is so important. High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, for example, are major risk factors for the number one cause of death in the United States - cardiovascular disease (which includes heart attack and stroke). These conditions are silent, meaning that they generally don't produce any symptoms until the disease is advanced. Screening for these and other conditions, however, are quick and easy at a preventive visit. Detecting these conditions early allows for effective treatment before advanced disease can develop. To continue reading, click here |
The Research Says...
 Black Tea May Reduce Risk of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
A scientific review of previous studies has concluded that consumption of three or more cups of black tea a day lowers the risk of coronary heart disease, that one to four cups of black tea a day reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggested a possible link between black tea consumption and the risk of stroke, although no method of action could be found. (Type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease represent major causes of morbidity, with extensive healthcare costs. Clinical studies previously suggested that the wide range of bioactive compounds found in black tea can inhibit oxidative damage and improve the function of endothelial cells.) This study was released December 22, 2011 and will be published in a future issue of Nutrition Bulletin. It is accessible online now at http://bit.ly/rRQYGW with subscription or the payment of an access fee.
Antioxidant-Rich Diet Lowers Risk of Stroke
Scientists have found that women whose diet is highest in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) have a 17 percent lower risk of stroke than women with the lowest antioxidant intake. (Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids and flavonoids can inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation by scavenging the free radicals. Antioxidants, especially flavonoids, may also help improve endothelial function and reduce blood clotting, blood pressure and inflammation.) The study looked at all of the thousands of antioxidants in the diet, and found that those who consume the greatest level of TAC received 50 percent of their antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, 18 percent from whole grains, 16 percent from tea, and 5 percent from chocolate. Also, women who had a history of cardiovascular disease and whose TAC levels placed them in the top 60 percent of the general population, showed a 46 to 57 percent lower risk of hemorrhagic stroke compared to those in the lowest 20 percent of TAC intake. This study was released December 1, 2011, but will not appear until a future issue of the journal Stroke. However, it is now available online at http://bit.ly/vOOJRXwithout cost. To continue reading, click here |
Diet Support Group Meets Feb. 14
If you have food allergies, have been prescribed a low glycemic eating plan, or have other dietary restrictions and struggle with your eating this new support group may be just the thing for you. Started by Jane Benoit, a longtime adherent to restricted diets, and sponsored by Green Mountain Natural Health, this group aims to help people on restricted diets be more successful.
Many people on restricted diets struggle with finding the right foods and making the right choices. Support groups can be very effective in helping people to make dietary and lifestyle changes. Join Jane and others to support one another and to share ideas to help conquer your dietary challenges.
To continue reading, click here
|
|
