April 2012
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IN THIS ISSUE
Daily Dose
IBS Support - Top Three Nutraceuticals
Digestive Solutions
Interview with Dr. Peter Knight
Upcoming Events: April 24
The Road to Health is Paved with Good Intestines
Peter Knight, ND
Let's Talk About
Vitamin D
Brenda Houdlette
New Chapter Sale!
Infertility Awareness Month
PeRx NewsBook Review The World's Healthiest Foods
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Dear friends:
The sun is out today and it has us thinking about the benefits of spring sunlight...tables outside, iced tea, more fresh fruits and vegetables at the farmer's market, and of course, an extra dose of vitamin D. Come on over to the store to enjoy the sunny benefits this month!
In addition to ways to celebrate sunlight, we've also got a great event this month from Dr. Peter Knight focused on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gut health that we hope you'll join us for. To go along with the topic, Joel, one of our nutraceutical experts, has shared three supplements to support IBS issues.
It's also infertility awareness month so we're pleased to share some great opportunities for education and support.
And last, but definitely not least, all New Chapter items are 20% off during the month of April!
Happy April to all...
Best,
The Apothecary by Design Team
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 DAILY DOSE: Top Three Nutraceuticals for IBS Support Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that leads to abdominal pain and cramping, changes in bowel movements, and other symptoms. IBS is the most common gastrointestinal disorder and a daily reality for millions of Americans. By some estimates, the condition affects as many as 1 in 5 adults.
We're thrilled that Dr. Peter Knight is coming to Apothecary by Design on April 24th to give insights on how to address symptoms and address the underlying causes of the disease. In connection with the event, we spoke with Joel - one of nutraceutical experts - for a few recommendations on supplements that can support those suffering with the disorder.
1. VSL#3
VSL#3 is a high-potency, targeted probiotic which is specifically designed to address inflammatory bowel issues. It works by colonoizing the GI tract with optimal quantities and types of probiotic bacteria. These bacteria adhere to the walls of the GI tract and form a barrier which protects the inner layer of the gut from bad bacteria and other toxic substances that can cause inflammation. Using a high concentration of eight different strains of specially selected bacteria, VSL#3 produces an optimal composition of good bacteria, delivering relief from symptoms and enhancing the health of the GI tract.
2. Enteric-Coated Fish Oil
Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, can provide many health benefits, one of which is supporting digestive health. In fact, the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids were found to help prevent and reduce the relapse of Crohn's Disease in a study in the New England Journal of Medicine. The enteric coating also allows the stomach to resist gastric acid for 30 minutes but to allow disintegration by 60 minutes - therefore proving to be a good option for those dealing with IBS.
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil - typically administered twice daily in capsule form - has also been found to be effective in relieving IBS symptoms. In a report by the American College of Gastroenterology, scientists conducted an analysis of previous studies comparing peppermint oil with placebo in about 400 patients. They found that only 26 percent of patients treated with peppermint oil continued to show symptoms of IBS after treatment, compared with 65 percent of those who were given placebo. The scientists concluded that the evidence was compelling enough that more studies should be conducted and that there was a trend indicating mild effectiveness in the reduction of some IBS symptoms, especially flatulence and abdominal pain and distension.
Come in to talk with Joel and Jaana about which nutraceuticals may be right for you. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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APRIL PROMOTION
20% off all New Chapter Products
Sale runs April 1 - 30
*Sale cannot be combined with Loyalty Program
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 INTERVIEW: The Road to Health is Paved with Good Intestines
Dr. Peter Knight | April 24, 2012 | 6:30 p.m.
Dr. Peter Knight will be coming to ABD for a great event on irritable bowel syndrome and how to uncover and treat the underlying causes for lasting relief. We chatted with him to learn more about the two main causes of IBS and his best tip for prevention.
Who would you recommend attend your talk?
Anyone who may have been told by a doctor that they have IBS or that something is not quite right with their digestive system (but also that nothing is acutely wrong). I'd encourage anyone who has tried over-the-counter solutions and adjusted foods, and is still not finding relief to join us. Also, anyone who has been belittled or told symptoms are in their heads. People with friends and family suffering from these things too are welcome as well!
What do you plan to focus on?
There are many things recommended for IBS that help address symptoms but not the underlying issues. I'll share information around the two main underlying issues and also address dealing with symptoms, advice for prevention, fiber intake, nutrient deficiencies, and the mind-body connection. For example, stress and anxiety exacerbate IBS but I find that there is typically some physical, underlying piece and that's why I think it's important to look at the whole person to solve the problem.
What are the two main underlying issues of irritable bowel syndrome?
The first stems around the imbalance in microbes in the gastrointestinal tracy. Either there is not enough bacteria growth or overgrowth due to travel, eating, antibiotics, stress, etc. The balance doesn't always restore itself on its own and therefore leads to excessive gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. We look at the GI tract to see what the balance is and how to shift it back. It's key to try and create a healthy environment that supports healthy microbe populations, so we seek to eradicate the bacteria you don't want and increase the bacteria you do.
The second is a reaction to food or food sensitivities. It's not always clear cut or immediate; you can have a direct reaction to a food or you can have eaten a food with a component that is not breaking down properly and if your bacteria feeds on it, it will lead to symptoms of IBS. We look at diet and reactions and try to eliminate/reduce certain foods. Then we work to help support proper digestion and GI lining and environment.
And any advice on preventing IBS in the first place?
Eat real food! Eat non-processed meals. And take the time to eat. We are doing 6 million things in our culture - chasing after kids, working at our desks, running errands - and not taking the time to stop and eat. Sitting down and focusing on the act of eating helps to support optimal digestion.
Dr. Peter Knight is a Naturopathic Doctor at Healthy Living Health Care in Falmouth Maine. He will discuss the common underlying causes of irritable bowel syndrome and how to effectively treat them using natural therapies.
Register for The Road to Health is Paved...Event here!
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FROM OUR TEAM: Let's Talk About Vitamin D
Brenda Houdlette is our Nurse Coordinator. In addition to offering hormone therapy insights and health tips each month in our newsletter, Brenda offers patient consults with peri- and post-menopausal women. She provides patient education and works with patients and their practitioners to develop individualized bio-identical hormone therapy plans. Call anytime at 207-899-0663 x223 to set up your own patient consult.
Let's talk about vitamin D, its functions in the body and what your level should be for optimal health. Vitamin D is not really a vitamin but one of the oldest prohormones. It is critically important for the development of growth and maintenance of a healthy body. Vitamin D is associated with a reduced risk of developing cancer of the breast, uterus, ovary, esophagus, bladder and lung. You also have a decreased risk of Hodgkins lymphoma. Clearly vitamin D is necessary to support our immune system not to mention our bones, joints, thyroid and eyes. It is also a "feel good" vitamin and deficiencies have been associated with depression, especially in older adults. So what should our vitamin D level be? The latest research indicates our level should be between 40 and 60 nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml). Studies show that your vitamin D level must be optimal in order to reap the nutrients benefits.
Food sources of vitamin D include fish, eggs, fortified milk, and cod liver oil. Ten minutes of sunlight daily can achieve the desired levels for many folks. However, most of us cannot get the required amount from food and certainly do not have enough of our skin exposed year round in this part of the country to absorb it from the sun. What can you do to ensure your levels are adequate? First ask your practitioner to check your levels, this is done with a blood test. Make sure you ask what the exact number is, even if you are told it is "normal". Most of us will need to supplement with at least 1000IU in the summer and 2000IU during the colder months.
Let's hope we will be able to bask in the sun soon!
Brenda To read more insights from Brenda, visit our blog here.
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INFERTILITY AWARENESS MONTH: Opportunities for Patients and Practitioners
Numerous factors play a role in healthy conception - some within our control, some not. For those factors you can control, Apothecary by Design is here to support you on your journey. Our pharmacists are uniquely trained and experienced in providing specialized support for patients undergoing fertility care. Our staff has also extensively studied the beneficial effects of vitamins, herbs and supplements. In fact, we have a nurse certified in endocrinology, a European-trained homeopath, and a pharmacist with a Masters Degree in Human Nutrition on our team and available to assist you.
Combining a healthy lifestyle, moderate exercise and a reduction in environmental toxins and stress with nutritional support to address nutritional deficiencies helps create a critical foundation prior to, during, and after pregnancy. Come in and ask us about our pre-natal starter pack that includes what we consider the key elements of nutritional support for both partners.
We also encourage you to visit our website to learn more about the infertility services and support we offer.
Since this month is national Infertility Awareness month, we also wanted to share some upcoming events and resource opportunities we are sponsoring. Here are three:
1. Boston IVF Open House
May 2 - 6-8 p.m.
Boston IVF The Maine Center - South Portland If you are trying to become pregnant and have been unsuccessful -- please join the Boston IVF Maine Center for an information session where you'll have the opportunity to tour the new South Portland Center, meet the clinicians, and learn about the basics of infertility.
Boston IVF reproductive endocrinologists will be on hand to answer questions about the fertility treatments they provide as well as some of the latest techniques being used today to help individuals and couples who are struggling to become pregnant.
Attendees will have the opportunity to: ● Meet their fertility team ● Learn more about IVF, financing, and how they can help ● Participate in a Q & A discussion with The Maine Center's Ben Lannon, MD ● Tour their state-of-the-art IVF center ● Enjoy refreshments and appetizers
Registration for this event is required. Please contact The Maine Center at 207.358.7600 to reserve a spot.2. All You Need to Know About IVF WebinarDr. Schmidt May 18 from 4-5 p.m. A live, interactive webinar from The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services designed for patients who are interested in or considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. The webinar will include an in-depth explanation of the IVF process including a real time Q&A session. Click here to register and learn more. 
3. Frontiers of Reproduction: Current Development's in Women's Health and Fertility
Friday, May 18
New Haven Lawn Club
We are also sponsoring a wonderful continuing education seminar through the Yale School of Medicine for health practitioners, nurses, PAs, and physicians. The event will highlight the current health issues of reproductive medicine, and the advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques that are associated with women's health. It will also discuss the problems of infertility and the associated physical and psychosocial impacts of patients.
Click here to learn more and register.
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TRUE NORTH HEALTH EVENT: Could You Be At Risk for Diabetes, Cancer, or Depression? Learn about Vitamin D
True North has a beneficial event coming up as part of their Empower ME for Health series and we wanted to share the details.
Monday, May 7th
7-8 p.m.
At True North
Lack of Vitamin D from exposure to overhead sunlight affects your overall health. Vitamin D is a marker for the risk of osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, obesity, cancer, and depression. Hear Bethany Hays, MD share how testing vitamin D levels can help you determine if taking Vitamin D may be beneficial to you and how you can prevent vitamin D overdose. Bring your questions! SEIZE THE DAY: If you wish to get tested right then and there, True North will have their Medical Assistant on hand after the session. You'll receive appropriate forms and pricing information when you register for the info session. To register, call 207.781.4488 or email education@truenorthhealthcenter.org
Click here read more about Empower ME on website on Dr. Hays' blog.
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PERX NEWS: Iced Tea Time and a New Coffee Selection
Our tables are out!
Just a friendly reminder that outside seating is available at PeRx. Stop by for coffee and sit outdoors to get a little spring fresh air and well-needed vitamin D & sunshine.
NUMI ORGANIC BLACK ICED TEA SPECIAL...
All month long enjoy a 20 oz., unsweetened, Numi Organic Black Iced Tea for just $1.59! Served with or without a slice of fresh lemon - whichever you prefer.
INTRODUCING - ORGANIC AZTECA
We have a new coffee selection in the shop. Try our Coffee by Design Organic Azteca! This delicious medium roast has replaced our Indonesian.
Visit our Facebook Page and tell us which drink you look forward to on a sunny day, or even better, stop by to enjoy.
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BOOK RECOMMENDATION: "The World's Healthiest Foods - An Essential Guide" by George Mateljan
Dr. Stephen Donnelly recommended a book worth reading at his recent talk at our store. We thought it was a great suggestion and wanted to pass the recommendation and book information on to you.
Stop by to pick up a copy - we now have it on our shelves!
The World's Healthiest Foods
George Mateljan's new book takes healthy eating to a whole new level. It presents a unique nutrient-rich approach to the "Healthiest Way of Eating" with 500 Mediterranean-style recipes, most of which take 7 minutes or less to prepare. This book answers the question about what to eat to keep healthy. It focuses on the World's Healthiest Foods, 100 delicious foods that are nutrient-rich, providing the maximum number of nutrients for the least amount of calories. The book is an inspiration not only for those who want to achieve vibrant health and energy but for those who also want a healthier way to lose weight by making the World's Healthiest Foods the foundation of their "Healthiest Way of Eating." The World's Healthiest Foods are among the most flavorful foods in the world - so you can now eat healthier without sacrificing taste! George also explains why it is not any more expensive to eat healthy.
"If you're looking for a book that will tell you all you need to know about how to transform nutrient-rich foods into delicious meals that your whole family will enjoy and provide you with details on the foods' nutritional profiles and health benefits, look no further than The World's Healthiest Foods. Not only is the book a treasure trove of information, but its 300 color photographs and detailed index make it enjoyable and easy to read." - NaturalHealthCare.org review
What are your favorite healthy "food books"? Tell us on our Facebook Page!
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