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#Post#: 572--------------------------------------------------
ENVIGA
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 8:58 pm
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Enviga
The Coca Cola Corporation has begun a joint venture with the
Nestle Corporation to produce a new drink called Enviga. This
green tea based beverage is claimed to be a “negative calorie”
drink that will help burn calories. Enviga does have calories,
actually 5 per can. The “negative calorie” claim must therefore
be the belief that the drinks will burn more calories than it
provides. Will the drink really help you lose weight though, and
at what cost?
The manufacturers of Enviga claim that drinking 3 cans of Enviga
a day will burn 60 to 100 calories per day. This is the
equivalent number of calories of the average éclair, one cup of
fat free ice cream, or 4 to 6 level teaspoons of sugar. In terms
of fat, this equates to the loss of about of about 5 pounds over
a year. Each can of Enviga costs an average of $1.40. Therefore,
to lose that 5 pounds, if the drink really causes weight loss,
would cost $1,533.00.
On the other hand, drinking a cold glass of water burns around
17 calories as the body burns calories to warm the water.
Therefore, drinking 8 sixteen ounce glasses of cold water daily
will burn 136 calories daily. In addition, drinking water not
only helps to cleanse the system, but also suppresses the
appetite. Both help reduce weight. A brisk walk burns 7 calories
per minute. If it took 10 minutes to walk to the store to buy
the Enviga, you would burn 70 calories, and another 70 calories
on the way back. That is more calories burnt than by drinking 3
cans of Enviga. In addition, regular exercise helps to build
muscle, which burns fat even when in a resting state.
Calories are not the only cause of weight gain though. So the
real question is will Enviga help people lose weight. In my
opinion, no it will not help people lose weight. In fact, it is
more likely to cause weight gain than weight loss. To understand
why, we must first look at the ingredients:
Carbonated water, calcium lactate, concentrated green tea from
tea leaves, citric acid, phosphoric acid, potassium sorbate and
potassium benzoate, natural flavors, Aspartame, caffeine,
Acesulfame-K.
The only ingredient in Enviga that will have any real effect on
weight loss is the green tea concentrate, and the added
caffeine. Catechins in green tea have been found to help boost
the metabolism, as does the added caffeine, and the caffeine
from the tea extract. On the other hand, Enviga uses two
artificial sweeteners, Aspartame, and Acesulfame-K. Not getting
in to the other dangerous adverse effects of these two
artificial sweeteners, both Aspartame and Acesulfame-K cause
insulin spikes. Insulin in turn promotes fat production. In
addition, Aspartame is also well known for causing weight gain
because it promotes appetite. To further compound the problem,
Aspartame can cause dry mouth syndrome increasing the likelihood
that the person would drink even more Aspartame containing
beverages, which can lead to further weight gain.
If you are really interested in losing weight, I recommend
staying away from diet sodas and other diet drinks. Water is
your best choice for a beverage, especially if you are diabetic.
#Post#: 573--------------------------------------------------
FDA
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:00 pm
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FDA Regulating Herbs
Once again the FDA is tying to overturn the Proxmire Vitamin
Bill from 1962, which prohibits the FDA from regulating
supplements as drugs. The FDA has tried numerous times though
direct and manipulative methods. Several attempts were even made
to hide their legislation within unrelated legislation, which
would have given them the power to regulate supplements if the
unrelated legislation had passed. Basically a Trojan horse
method of trying to gain control.
This brings up some interesting questions. For instance, if the
FDA considers herbs and supplements to be quackery, then why do
they want to regulate these substances as drugs? Is it policy
for the FDA to make prescription substances that they consider
quackery? Of course it is not FDA policy, though it is done all
the time. Take for instance the drug dextromethorphan (DM),
which was shown in several studies dating back to the 1960s, to
be no better than placebo. In fact, DM is only one of 710 drugs
the FDA was ordered to remove from the market under court order
in 1969. All 710 drugs were ordered to be removed because they
were found to be either totally ineffective, or too dangerous
for human use. Instead of removing these drugs as ordered to do
by the court, the FDA instead found a loophole, and left all of
these drugs on the market.
A large part of the problem is that numerous FDA officials own
stock in the same pharmaceutical companies they oversee. In fact
it has been reported for decades that over 150 FDA officials
illegally own stock in these companies. Ownership of stock, by
FDA officials, in pharmaceutical companies FDA officials oversee
is a clear violation of insider trading laws. Furthermore, many
FDA officials have gone to work, in high level positions, with
these drug companies after helping to push the drug company's
drugs through the approval process. In other cases it was
reported that drug companies gave FDA officials payoffs or gifts
after the FDA officials pushed their drugs through the approval
process, and when these FDA officials blocked the drug company's
competition. An excellent example is the generic drug scandal in
which FDA officials were caught approving untested drugs in
exchange for payoffs. Then the FDA harassed the drug company
that tipped off the officials to the illegal activity of the
FDA. More recently was the FDA's approval of the drug Ketek. The
FDA was fully aware that the drug company falsified the safety
data of the drug before the drug was approved by the FDA. The
FDA has refused to remove Ketek from the market despite 4 deaths
and 12 reported dangerous reactions.
At the same time the FDA has tried to remove several herbs from
the market that have not been proven to be dangerous or deadly,
such as ephedra and chaparral. The FDA lied about deaths they
claim were from ephedra, when in fact they were due to the
pharmaceutical drug ephedrine HCl. The company Nutraceuticals
took the FDA to court claiming the ban was illegal, and the FDA
was court ordered to lift their ban. The FDA has remained in
violation of this court order. Claims that chaparral could cause
hepatitis lead the FDA to try and ban the sale of this herb as
well. Although the FDA failed to disclose that the 13 isolated
cases of hepatitis, attributed to chaparral ingestion, were in
patients known to have pre-existing liver failure, and/or were
taking pharmaceutical drugs well known to cause liver damage.
It is clear that the FDA is not there to protect the public, but
rather to protect the profits of large corporations. Especially
corporations in which the FDA officials have financial
connections to, or are compensated from with gifts, jobs or
payoffs. And this is not limited to drugs. Take for instance the
sweetener aspartame (Equal, Nutrasweet). This highly toxic
substance failed to pass the FDA approval process the first 4
times it was submitted. The fifth time it was pushed through by
an FDA official who then went to work for the manufacturer in a
high level position.
The FDA is supposed to regulate any drug on the market. Drugs
are defined as any substance which treats, or mitigates a
disease, or alters a body process. By definition this makes
tobacco a drug. In fact, the tobacco industry deliberately
manipulates nicotine levels within cigarettes to elicit a
particular effect on the body. Additives are put in the tobacco
to further increase these effects, by potentiating the effects
of the nicotine, or by increasing its absorption. This clearly
makes tobacco a drug, yet the FDA is not regulating it as a drug
as they are supposed to.
So the question remains, can the FDA be trusted to regulate
herbs and supplements when they cannot even properly regulate
drug
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Herbs as Foods
I wonder what herbs, and foods, will be become prescription if
the FDA gets its way to make all herbs and supplements
prescription. The FDA claims that anything, in which a medical
claim is made for, or that treats or mitigates a disease, or
alters a function of the body is a drug, and therefore under FDA
regulation. So what foods can be considered drugs, and may be
subject to prescription?:
Cinnamon- Shown to lower blood sugar. Antiseptic. Aids in
digestion.
Oats- Lower cholesterol. As a fiber it helps regulate bowel
movements, and supplies silica to help in the formation of
connective tissues.
Rice- Treats diarrhea.
Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts- Contain antitumor agents.
Raw broccoli can slow down an overactive thyroid.
Peanuts- Raw peanuts will slow an overactive thyroid.
Soy- Regulates hormones. Raw, unfermented, soy treats overactive
thyroid.
Watermelon- All parts of the watermelon are diuretic, and helps
treat constipation.
Garlic- Lowers blood pressure.
Onions- Lower blood sugar. The skins of yellow onions contain
quercetin, a natural antihistamine.
Rosemary- Antioxidant and antiseptic.
Oregano- Antiseptic.
Nopales- Lowers blood sugar. Treats enlarged prostate, and
lowers cholesterol.
Grapes and raisins- Contain antiviral and antitumor polyphenols.
Green, oolong, and black teas- Contain antiviral and antitumor
polyphenols.
Thyme- Antibacterial, antifungal. Thyme oil can be used to treat
thrush and toenail infections.
Basil- Strongly antiviral. Basil oil kills the herpes virus and
can be applied to cold sores to treat the outbreak.
Ginger- Shown in studies to be more effective than the
pharmaceutical drug Dramamine in controlling motion sickness.
Ginger also treats inflammations and pain, improves digestion,
and is antiseptic.
Turmeric- Shown in studies to be highly antitumor, and
antiseptic.
Apples- Help to control blood sugar and suppress the appetite.
Kiwi- Treats scurvy.
Citrus- Treats scurvy. Contains the natural antihistamine
quercetin.
Strawberries- Treats scurvy. Contains antiviral polyphenols.
Mashed strawberries can be applied to cold sores to help kill
the localized virus.
Blueberries- Treats scurvy. Contains antiviral polyphenols.
Mashed blueberries can be applied to cold sores to help kill the
localized virus. Blueberries improve vision in cases of night
blindness, and can help prevent macular degeneration.
Brans- Treat constipation.
Olive oil- Lowers cholesterol.
Wheat germ oil- Can help prevent cataracts, and improves energy.
Cocoa- Muscle relaxant due to high magnesium content. Magnesium
in cocoa can help lower blood pressure and reduces menstrual
cramps. Phenylethylamine (PEA) in cocoa is a psychoactive
compound and antidepressant. Cocoa butter added to make
chocolate is a laxative, and treats constipation.
Carrots- Helps improve vision, and fight cancer. Supports liver
function, and treats constipation.
Beets- The root improves liver function, and treats iron
deficiency anemia. The leaves are a methyl donor that treats
inflammations, heart disease, and depression.
Yogurt- Treats irritable bowel syndrome and yeast infections.
It appears that if the FDA gets its way that we will have to
carry a prescription pad with us just to eat.
#Post#: 574--------------------------------------------------
GOOD FREE RADICALS
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:02 pm
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Benefits of Free Radicals
Unfortunately there is a lot of hype on the dangers of free
radicals, but you never hear of the benefits. The body generates
some free radicals to benefit the body in different ways. The
most important of these free radicals is hydrogen peroxide,
which is generated by superoxide dismutase, in many cells, to
activate white blood cells. Some flora produce peroxide to kill
bacteria and fungi. White blood cells, such as NK cells,
generate peroxide to destroy pathogens and cancer cells.
Healthy cells use antioxidants, and antioxidant enzymes
(catalase, glutathione peroxidase, selenium methionine
peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) to protect themselves from
the damaging effects of free radicals. Diseased cells, such as
cancer cells, and microbes often do not have these same defenses
making them more vulnerable to attack by the free radicals
produced by the body. There is a limited supply of antioxidants
available to cells. Therefore, if the amount of free radicals
present exceeds the body's ability to neutralize the unnecessary
free radicals, then damage can occur.
On the flip side, taking excess levels of antioxidants can
actually suppress the immune system by locking up beneficial
free radicals, like hydrogen peroxide.
#Post#: 575--------------------------------------------------
HEART ATTACK: ASPIRIN; NSAID
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:05 pm
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Aspirin and Heart Attacks; NSAID
With all of the talk about nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke, it
seems like there is a lot of advertising going on claiming that
aspirin can reduce your risk of heart attack. Are these claims
really credible, or just more pharmaceutical sales hype?
One of the most misleading commercials was from an aspirin
manufacturer that was claiming that their product had been shown
to reduce the risk of a second heart attack by 50%. Sounds
really impressive until you look at how they came to their
conclusion. It was revealed on news program that the company had
started with around 100 test subjects. After being given the
aspirin therapy for a length of time, the drug company chose
only 6 participants to base their conclusion on. Out of the 6
participants, 3 had not had a second heart attack by that time.
Thus the drug company came to the conclusion that their product
reduced the risk of a second heart attack by 50%.
Numerous other companies have been making similar claims. And
aspirin therapy is even being recommended to take during a heart
attack. This is a widely accepted concept, and is even being
recommended by some doctors. Though, this practice has never
been proven safe, or beneficial in any way. In fact, the
practice is being questioned by other doctors because evidence
is contrary to this common belief.
Generally NSAIDs contract blood vessels and promote the
formation of blood clots by inhibiting the hormone prostacyclin.
Aspirin inhibits prostacyclin as well, leading to blood vessel
constriction. Unlike other NSAIDs though, aspirin actually helps
to prevent blood clots though by interfering with platelet
clumping. Blood clots are well known for causing heart attacks
and thrombic stroke. This is where the notion that aspirin would
help prevent a heart attack, or reduce risk of death from a
heart attack, got started. Aspirin does not dissolve existing
blood clots though. If a person takes an aspirin after a heart
attack from a blood clot (thrombus), the aspirin will not
dissolve the blood clot to restore blood flow. Although, as with
all NSAIDs, aspirin will cause the blood vessels to contract,
further reducing blood flow. This is the last thing that a
person having a heart attack or angina should do. It is a
decreased blood flow to the heart that leads to angina, and an
obstruction of blood flow that causes heart attacks in the first
place.
Medical studies dating back to 1971 have consistently shown that
aspirin does not benefit people during heart attacks. This claim
is nothing more than sales propaganda. And some studies had to
be stopped before results could be obtained due to the increased
risk gastric hemorrhage and hemorrhagic stroke.
One aspirin study did appear at first to reduce the risk of
death from heart attack. This study was conducted by two groups
of doctors, one in England, and the other in the United States.
The group of doctors in England took plain aspirin, and
concluded no reduced risk of death from aspirin therapy. The
U.S. group of doctors used aspirin buffered with magnesium. This
group found a slight benefit from the therapy. The benefit was
not from the aspirin though. Instead, the benefit resulted from
the magnesium added to the aspirin. Magnesium is a well known
for relaxing blood vessels. By relaxing the blood vessels,
magnesium actually increases blood flow to the heart, opposite
of aspirin's effect.
Hemorrhage is the most dangerous side effect of aspirin therapy.
If a bleed starts due to a ruptured blood vessel, the inability
to clot can have devastating consequences. For example, NSAIDs
kill over 16,000 people a year. Nearly all of these deaths are
due to internal bleeding disorders. These bleeding disorders are
primarily gastric bleeds and hemorrhagic strokes. This increased
risk of bleeds is not only due to the blood thinning effects of
the aspirin, but also from the blood vessel weakening effects of
the drug, which increases the likelihood that a blood vessels
will rupture.
My grandfather actually lost his eyesight completely in one eye
from taking aspirin. He developed a bleed in the eye from a
ruptured blood vessel, which was likely weakened by the aspirin
therapy. Because the aspirin had also thinned out his blood so
much, the bleed could not clot as it would normally do, and he
went blind in that eye.
There is also a problem with the constant claims of aspirin
reducing the risk of a second heart attack or stroke by a
certain percentage, which is often done by these drug companies.
Both heart attacks and strokes are unpredictable. So how can
they claim that aspirin prevented a second heart attack, or
stroke, when it is impossible to tell if the person would have
had a second heart attack or stroke if they had not taken the
aspirin? And what if all the people in the study were to have a
second heart attack or stroke the day after the study is
completed? The percentage would still remain the same since the
heart attacks or strokes occurred outside the study timeframe.
These are just a few examples of how drug studies are
manipulated to make drugs appear safe or effective.
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NSAIDs and the Heart
The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Celebrex and
Vioxx have recently come under fire when it was admitted that
these drugs could significantly increase the risk of heart
attack and stroke. Are these the only NSAIDs capable of
increasing this risk though?
Many heart disturbances, including heart attack, result from
decreased blood flow to the heart. Common causes of decreased
blood flow include arterial plaque formation, blood clots, and
narrowing of the arteries from muscular contraction of the blood
vessels.
Arterial plaque formation starts with damage to the blood vessel
walls. This leads to depositing of cholesterol and calcium on
the arterial walls. One of the most common causes of the
arterial damage is high blood pressure caused from constriction
of blood vessels. Various factors may lead to blood vessel
constriction. These include elevated serum calcium, elevated
insulin levels in type 2 diabetes, and epinephrine (adrenaline)
induced constriction. NSAIDs constrict blood vessels as well,
which leads to an elevation of blood pressure. Increased blood
pressure may result in narrowing of the arteries from plaque due
to resulting arterial damage. This narrowing of the arteries not
only increases the risk of heart attack, but also of thrombic
and embolytic stroke.
Because NSAIDs constrict blood vessels, these drugs increase the
risk of angina, heart arrhythmias, and heart attack in people
with already impaired perfusion to the heart. These include
individuals with previous angina, or heart attacks, history of
congestive heart failure, diabetics, and individuals who tend to
put out too much epinephrine, etc.
Further risk comes from the fact that NSAIDs inhibit
prostaglandins, including prostacyclin, also known as
prostaglandin I2 (PGI2). PGI2 is produced by healthy endothelial
cells of blood vessels. The roles of PGI2 are to dilate blood
vessels, to increase blood flow, and to inhibit platelet
formation and blood clot formation. By dilating blood vessels,
blood pressure is reduced, and more blood reaches critical
areas, such as the brain and heart. This also lowers the risk of
heart disease by reducing arterial damage, which would otherwise
lead to plaque formation. By reducing blood clot formation, the
risk of heart attack and thrombic stroke are reduced. Both
damage to endothelial cells and the use of NSAIDs inhibit PGI2
production, which increases blood clot formation and reduces
blood flow. Production of blood clots and reduction of blood
flow increase the risk of angina, arrhythmias, and heart attack,
as well as transient ishemic attacks, and thrombic stroke.
As we can see, the increased risk of heart attack and stroke are
not limited to certain NSAIDs, but rather can occur with all
pharmaceutical NSAIDs. And the problem is not a new finding. The
blood vessel constricting effects of NSAIDs have been known for
decades. Part of the drug approval process includes knowing how
the drug works. NSAIDs are known, and have been known, to work
by constricting blood vessels. When blood vessels are
overdilated by inflammatory prostaglandins, they become
permeable, which leads to leakage of fluids in to the
surrounding tissues, and resulting inflammation. By constricting
blood vessels, NSAIDs prevent blood vessels from leaking. It is
well known that the adverse effects of liver and kidney failure
by NSAIDs is due to impeded blood flow to these organs due to
this constriction of the blood vessels. Other organs, such as
the heart, as well as glands are adversely affected by the
impeded blood flow in the same manner. Therefore, the only
explanation for the increased risk of heart attack and stroke
being "discovered" recently would be that the drug companies and
FDA knew about the problem all along and just recently decided
to make this known fact public.
#Post#: 576--------------------------------------------------
HEART ATTACK: CAYENNE
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:07 pm
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The Dangers of Cayenne for Heart Attacks and Strokes
I have recently seen several dangerous recommendations given
concerning recommendations for cayenne pepper for people on
Coumadin (Warfarin) and for people having a stroke. I want to
address these statements since they do consist of dangerous
advice.
The first claim was that because cayenne pepper is a blood
coagulant that it would be safe to take with the powerful blood
thinner Coumadin.
To start with it is not really true that cayenne is a blood
coagulant if taken internally. This myth stems from the fact
that cayenne pepper can stop bleeding of minor wounds if applied
topically. Does this mean that cayenne is a blood coagulant?
Not really. The fact is that basically any herbal powder, even
blood thinning herbs, applied topically will stop bleeding of
minor wounds. The reason has nothing to do with the
phytochemicals in the plant, but rather has to do with their
cellulose content. Cellulose in many plant fibers makes an
excellent substrate for blood to coagulate on. I worked with a
guy many years ago who was working on a patent for cellulose
bandages because of this simple principle. By using bandages
made of pure cellulose this would provide a substrate for blood
from wounds to immediately coagulate on to stop the bleeding.
This DOES NOT mean that cayenne will work in the same manner
within the body. To begin with, cellulose is not even absorbed
by the body. Instead the cellulose is fermented in the colon by
the flora to generate beneficial acids, peroxides, bactericides
and vitamins. What is absorbed from the cayenne in to the
bloodstream are the natural blood thinning salicylate (aspirin)
compounds, which are present in very high levels in cayenne.
Coumadin is an extremely dangerous drug on its own to begin
with. And it interacts with many foods and other medications.
Foods and food additives that Coumadin interacts adversely with
include coagulating and blood thinning compounds. Foods high in
vitamin K, such as dark green leafy vegetables, are contradicted
with Coumadin because they interfere with the effects of
Coumadin. Foods and additives that thin the blood present even
more of a problem. These include cayenne, ginger, sweet
woodruff, vanilla, etc. There are some other herbs and
supplements that also need to avoided when on Coumadin such as
clovers, lomatium, dong quai (angelica root), willow bark,
pansies, fish oil, etc.
To really understand why blood thinning compounds are so
dangerous to use while taking Coumadin, it is important to first
understand a few things about Coumadin. Coumadin was originally
discovered by the Wisconsin Agricultural Research Foundation
(WARF) leading to the original name for Coumadin of Warfarin.
The drug was discovered after cows feeding on hay that had been
rained on started dropping dead suddenly. When the cows were
autopsied it was found that the cows had died from internal
hemorrhaging. It was later discovered that what lead to the
internal hemorrhaging were the ingestion of powerful blood
thinning dicoumarins. The hay itself contained some sweet
clover that normally contains mild blood thinning coumarins. As
the hay got wet from the rain though, the hay started to
ferment. This changed the milder coumarins in to very strong
blood thinning dicoumarins. Coumadin is an example of these
dicoumarins.
We know that dicoumarins are potent blood thinners, which makes
them extremely dangerous for use to begin with due to the
potential for death from uncontrolled hemorrhage. But there is
more to the dangers of Coumadin though. Coumadin not only thins
the blood, but it also thins out tissues including blood
vessels. If you ever knew anyone on Coumadin you may have
noticed that even the slightest bump in to something generally
results in tearing of the skin and major bruising. This is from
the thinning effects of Coumadin on tissues such as the skin and
blood vessels. The thinning effect on blood vessels is of the
most concern since this increases the risk of blood vessels
rupturing leading to uncontrolled hemorrhage.
I have always found it interesting that when researching the
side effects of Coumadin in the Physician’s Desk Reference that
there is no mention of hemorrhagic stroke listed as a side
effect. Instead, the closest they get to mentioning this fact
is the statement that Coumadin can cause uncontrolled hemorrhage
from any organ in the body. Of course “any organ” includes the
brain.
Because Coumadin is frequently prescribed to prevent stroke
though the drug manufacturers do not want any mention of
Coumadin causing strokes. There are various forms of stroke
though. Strokes can come from thrombus, embolus, hemorrhage or
hypotension. Coumadin only helps prevent thrombic strokes, but
not other forms. In addition, as mentioned previously Coumadin
significantly increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. The
reason for this is two fold. First of all, Coumadin can thin
arteries in the brain making them more prone to rupturing.
Secondly, if an artery in the brain does rupture from Coumadin
thinning then hemorrhagic stroke can occur as the Coumadin
interferes with the normal clotting process leading to the
uncontrolled bleeding within the brain. Even a small hole or
tear in the artery will lead to uncontrolled bleeding in to the
skull. Since there is no natural way for the increasing
pressure to be relieved from the bleed the increasing pressure
starts compressing the brain leading to a stroke.
This is one of the reasons that patients must be tested
frequently for their ability to clot when on Coumadin. In some
cases the blood needs to be thinned to prevent blood clots from
forming. At the same time though it is important that the blood
is not thinned out too much since this can possibly lead to a
hemorrhagic stroke or death from uncontrolled bleeding.
Maintaining proper Coumadin levels is difficult though since as
mentioned previously Coumadin reacts adversely to so many foods,
additives and other drugs. One food that can adversely interact
with Coumadin is cayenne pepper since ingesting cayenne provides
blood thinning salicylates that increase the blood thinning
effects of Coumadin. Thus cayenne pepper can also increase the
dangerous side effects of Coumadin.
This leads to my first point of contention to people
recommending cayenne pepper for someone having a stroke. A
person having a stroke may have a previous history of strokes.
Since Coumadin is frequently given to people who have a history
of stroke it is important to know if someone is taking Coumadin
to begin with before telling them to take cayenne pepper at all,
and especially when they are having a potential stroke.
The reason I said “potential stroke” is because aneurysms can
also mimic a stroke. Why is it so important to differentiate
between the two? Because a ruptured aneurysm can cause someone
to bleed to death quickly if not operated on right away. Taking
a blood thinner such as cayenne can not only increase the rate
of bleeding from a ruptured aneurysm, but it can also increase
the risk of hemorrhage during surgery.
Another issue is that as I pointed out earlier there are
different forms of stroke. There is no way though to simply
look at a person and tell what kind of a stroke they are having.
If the person has a hemorrhagic stroke then thinning the blood
by taking cayenne will only make things worse. Not only from
the initial bleeding, but it can again also increase the risk of
hemorrhage during the required surgery.
Another issue with taking cayenne pepper during a stroke is the
reason it is recommended, which is to dilate blood vessels.
Actually this poses two problems. But I want to clear up a
major misconception about cayenne pepper first.
It is often claimed that cayenne pepper helps to increase
circulation. Although this is true it is still misleading.
Cayenne pepper is effective in dilating the smaller superficial
blood vessels in the body, but is not very effective in dilating
the larger primary blood vessels in the body. Herbs such as
prickly ash bark or butcher’s broom are much more effective in
dilating the larger primary blood vessels and have longer
lasting effects than cayenne pepper. The primary dilation of
the smaller superficial blood vessels by cayenne actually has a
positive and a negative aspect when it comes to strokes.
The positive is that it does not have much of an effect on
dilating the primary blood vessels in the event of a rupture of
a major blood vessel. This is important since clotting of blood
is not the only way in which the body controls bleeding.
Another method by which bleeding is controlled is by
constriction of blood vessels that reduces blood flow.
Therefore, if cayenne were to dilate a major blood vessel
significantly when it develops a bleed the dilating effect would
further increase the rate of bleeding.
The negative is that the dilation of the smaller blood vessels
could still lead to uncontrolled hemorrhage if the person is on
other blood thinners.
If the person is not used to ingesting cayenne or the cayenne
has a very high heat unit value then this can also pose a
problem. The pain of suddenly ingesting hot pepper can further
aggravate the issue as this would increase anxiety and lead to
an increased release of epinephrine (adrenaline) speeding up the
heart while actually reducing flow to the heart and brain.
During a heart attack or stroke this would increase the death of
tissues.
If continuing to take cayenne during and right after a heart
attack or stroke then there is an increased risk of another
problem, known as reperfusion injuries. When the blood supply
is cut off from tissues long enough tissue death occurs from a
lack of oxygen. Examples of this are seen with heart attacks and
strokes. When the blood supply is then restored this sets off a
series of events that lead to inflammation and tissue
destruction in part from oxidative damage from the increase of
blood and oxygen back to the tissues. People recommending
taking cayenne pepper during a heart attack or stroke recommend
doing this to increase circulation to the heart or brain. This
can in theory increase the risk of damage from reperfusion
injuries by increasing blood flow to the dead tissues.
Due to the various risks that cayenne pepper poses during a
heart attack or stroke I have to strongly recommend AGAINST this
practice.
#Post#: 577--------------------------------------------------
HEART ATTACK: STATINS
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:13 pm
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Why statins and low cholesterol cause heart attacks and strokes;
Cholesterol Myth
No studies have ever proven that high cholesterol causes heart
disease since this simply is not true. Inflammation, not high
cholesterol, leads to arteriosclerosis. Yet the pharmaceutical
companies keep pushing the cholesterol myth to promote drug
sales, while ignoring the fact that they are endangering lives.
Statins are the most commonly prescribed form of medicine for
the treatment of “high” cholesterol. The drug companies have
failed though to inform the public about the dangers of not only
these drugs, but also of the dangers of low cholesterol, which
among other things can cause heart attack and stroke.
I find it rather ironic that the drug companies are pushing
statins claiming they help prevent heart disease when these
drugs are well known to increase the risk of heart failure,
heart attacks, and strokes! There are several reasons for this.
Other than liver damage, the best known side effect of statins
is a condition known as rhabdomyolosis. This is a condition in
which muscle tissue deteriorates. The deterioration occurs from
declining levels of CoQ10 in the tissues, which is required for
the proper function of cells and their energy production. What
people often do not stop and think about is that the heart is
also a muscle, and is prone to the same damaging effects from
the use of statins. If taking statins I highly recommend taking
at least 200mg of CoQ10 daily to help reduce the risk of statin
induced heart failure.
The increased risk of heart attack and stroke actually occur for
a totally different reason. If you read my blog articles on the
dangers of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), you
will see that the risk of heart attack and stroke are related.
Several NSAIDs, such as Vioxx and Celebrex, have been either
pulled off the market, or have required stronger warning labels,
warning of the increased risk of heart attack and stroke from
these drugs. Even though the drug companies tried to make it
sound like a new discovery, the risk had been known prior to the
drugs ever reaching the market. The problem stems from the way
these drugs work. NSAIDs interfere with inflammatory
prostaglandins. Inflammatory prostaglandins are hormones that
dilate blood vessels. For example during injuries these hormones
open up blood vessels to increase oxygen and nutrient levels to
the area to promote healing. By inhibiting these hormones, the
NSAIDs decrease blood flow to the organs, including the heart
and brain. If the blood supply is sufficiently reduced to the
heart and brain, heart attack or stroke can occur.
So what does all this have to do with statins and cholesterol
levels? Prostaglandins, as with other hormones, are formed from
cholesterol. Therefore, reduced cholesterol levels lead to
decreased prostaglandin formation, and thus decreased blood flow
to the organs. This explains why studies have consistently shown
increased mortality with decreased cholesterol levels!
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The Cholesterol myth
One of the largest frauds perpetuated on the American public has
been the false claim that high cholesterol causes heart disease.
Even though this has been known for decades to be false, the
myth keeps getting promoted by the drug companies to increase
drug sales of drugs, such as statins. The whole idea of high
cholesterol causing heart disease started with a faulty,
outdated rabbit study from the 1920s. No solid evidence of high
cholesterol causing heart disease in humans has ever been shown.
In fact, evidence is to the contrary. Several studies have
confirmed that as cholesterol levels go down that the mortality
rate goes up, primarily from increased heart attacks and
strokes.
What I really find interesting is how doctors, who should be
reasonably intelligent, don’t seem to be questioning how it is
that people can have low cholesterol and clogged arteries, or
high cholesterol and clean arteries. In fact I just heard a
commercial for Lipitor, where Dr. Jarvic is claiming that high
cholesterol can lead to heart attack and stroke. I would love to
ask him in person to explain this mechanism since there is
absolutely no science whatsoever to back up his claim!
Cholesterol levels are actually totally irrelevant to the risk
of arteriosclerosis. It is inflammation, not high cholesterol
that leads to arteriosclerosis. Cholesterol is actually a
healing agent for the body. Where there is an injury in the
body, cholesterol will increase in that area to aid in the
healing by acting as both a patchwork, and as a precursor for
other substances, such as hormones that play a role in healing.
Various things can cause trauma and inflammation to the
arteries, and are well known for increasing the risk of heart
disease. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking,
and even bypass operations. Damage to the arterial lining leads
to inflammation. In response, cholesterol floods the area and
lays down as a “patchwork” over the injured area. The problem is
that if the source of inflammation is not removed then the
cholesterol will keep depositing in an attempt to heal the
injured area.
#Post#: 578--------------------------------------------------
HEART DISEASE
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:17 pm
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Heart Disease
Arterial plaque is an accumulation of calcified fatty acids on
the arterial wall. Trauma to the arterial lining leads to an
inflammatory condition on the artery wall. The body responds by
laying down plaque as kind of a patchwork. Trauma to the artery
may occur for various reasons, such as high blood pressure,
smoking, diabetes, and bypasses. Bypasses are performed by
cutting out a vein from the leg. The vein is not only cut out,
it is also handled, trimmed, and sewn in to its new position.
This massive amount of trauma to the vein used for the bypass
inflames the blood vessel, and quickly leads to plaque formation
and failure of the bypass. This explains why the original blood
vessel occlusion from plaque takes many decades to build up, but
bypasses generally fail within 2 to 5 years.
The easiest way to clean plaque out of the arteries is with the
fatty acid lecithin. Lecithin is a fat emulsifier. In other
words the lecithin helps to dissolve the fats in the arterial
plaque so these fats will not adhere to blood vessel walls, and
will be flushed from the body. I recommend lecithin granules
over the liquid or pills. The recommended dosage is 1 tablespoon
of the granules 3 times a day with each meal. They can be
sprinkled over food or blended in juice or a shake.
Magnesium helps reduce the risk of heart disease by helping to
remove arterial plaque, and by lowering blood pressure.
Magnesium helps to remove arterial plaque by displacing the
calcium in the plaque. This softens the plaque and makes it
easier for the body to remove the plaque. Magnesium lowers blood
pressure by acting similar to a calcium channel blocker. By
pushing calcium out of the nerve synapse, blood vessels relax
lowering the blood pressure and increasing blood flow to the
heart muscle allowing it to work more efficiently.
Magnesium may also help prevent diabetic related heart disease.
This action is due to magnesium's role in helping to regulate
blood sugar levels, and by helping prevent damage to blood
vessels due to the strong blood vessel constricting effects of
insulin. Most of the serious side effects of diabetes are due to
rupturing of blood vessels, or blood vessel damage, due to
elevated levels of insulin in the blood. These side effects
include diabetic retinopathy (loss of vision), renal (kidney)
failure, gangrene, and heart disease.
Silica assists in preventing plaque formation in the arteries by
strengthening blood vessel walls to prevent damage, and by
acting as a mild anti-inflammatory. Tissue levels of silica
decline as we age due to decreases in stomach acid. Therefore to
ensure proper silica absorption avoid the use of antacids and
acid blockers. Taking silica with an acid source, such as
ascorbic acid (vitamin C), citric acid from citrus fruits, or
acetic acid (vinegar) will aid in the absorption of the silica.
Silica is found in fibers, diatomaceous earth, and herbs
including bamboo, couch grass, and horsetail grass.
Other herbs that help with removing arterial plaque are hawthorn
and violets. The flowers of hawthorn are the strongest part of
the plant, though the leaves and berries are also effective. A
combination of all three is the best. Hawthorn also aids in
lowering blood pressure, and strengthens the heart muscle. The
berries contain bioflavonoids that help stabilize blood vessel
walls. Violets, or pansies, are an old time favorite for
treating heart disease, which is why they are also referred to
as heart ease. The plants not only remove arterial plaque, but
they also contain a natural form of aspirin to help thin the
blood.
Vitamin C helps with the prevention of heart disease by
strengthening blood vessel walls. There were reports that
vitamin C increased the risk of heart disease, though this came
about from a misinterpretation of the actual study. The study
found that vitamin C increase the thickness of arterial walls,
and therefore someone improperly concluded that this narrowing
increased the risk of a heart attack. The fact is that vitamin
C, along with other nutrients, such as silica and sulfur, help
to maintain the integrity of the arterial wall through the
production of the proteins collagen and elastin, which give
tissues their strength and elasticity. Without sufficient levels
of these compounds in the tissues the blood vessels become more
prone to damage, inflammation, plaque formation, and aneurysm.
The best source of vitamin C is amla berries (Indian
gooseberry). The berries are stronger and more stable than
synthetic vitamin C, and it contains bioflavonoids that make the
vitamin C work more efficiently. In addition amla berries
significantly raise levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), which
helps to reduce the inflammatory process that leads to arterial
plaque formation.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart muscle
fails to contract efficiently enough to pump the blood through
the body properly. Treatment of CHF is primarily directed
towards strengthening the heart muscle. This is generally done
with cardiac glycosides, derived from plants, such as digitalis
derivatives from foxglove. Though cardiac glycosides can be very
dangerous because they not only slow the heart muscle andd they
may also lower blood pressure drastically. Cardiac glycosides
can vary considerably in strength. For instance, digoxin from
digitalis, and nerine and oleandrin from oleander are extremely
dangerous to use. By contrast, the cardiac glycosides from lily
of the valley and night blooming cereus (cactus grandiflorus)
are much weaker and are generally safe when used properly. Even
so, I highly recommend not using any cardiac glycosides without
supervision by a doctor or herbalist knowledgeable on their use.
The herb coleus forskohlii, or forskohlii, has the same effect
as cardiac glycosides, though it does not contain these
compounds. Forskohlii contains an alkaloid, called forskohlin,
which elevates levels of a cellular regulator, known as cyclic
adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Like cardiac glycosides, cAMP
slows the heart muscle and strengthens heart contractions. It
also stimulates the production of another substance, known as
nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels that in turn lowers
blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart. Forskohlii
also helps to regulate the thyroid, which affects heart rate.
And forskohlii has a stimulating effect on the pancreas, making
it useful for some forms of diabetes, which can affect heart
health.
Since blood clots can lead to heart attacks, it is often
recommended that an aspirin be taken daily to thin the blood if
a person is prone to heart disease, and is not already on blood
thinners, such as coumadin. Herbs that thin the blood include
white willow, ginger, vanilla, ginkgo biloba, dong quai,
lomatium, sweet clover, and red clover. The herb dan shen
(salvia root) is used in Chinese medicine to actually dissolve
blood clots.
Elevated blood sugar can increase the risk of heart disease due
to insulin increases and elevation of triglycerides, therefore
it is important to maintain proper blood sugar levels.
Increasing chromium, and vanadium (vanadyl sulfate) intake are
the easiest ways to maintain proper sugar levels. I recommend
200mcg of chromium polynicotinate (not picolinate) 3 times a day
with meals. Polynicotinate is a niacin bound chromium, so it
also helps maintain proper cholesterol levels. It is also 300
times stronger than chromium picolinate. Vanadyl sulfate
functions like a natural insulin taking sugar out of the blood
stream. Insulin is dependant on insulin receptors to carry sugar
out of the blood. Though nearly all diabetics are type 2
diabetics, who produce plenty, and often too much insulin
because their insulin receptors are either closed or missing so
the available insulin cannot remove the sugar from the blood.
Since vanadyl sulfate is not dependant on these insulin
receptors, it can still remove sugar from the blood of type 2
diabetics. Vanadyl sulfate also has the ability to open closed
insulin receptors as it carries the sugar out of the blood. The
recommended dose of vanadyl sulfate is 50mg 3 times daily with
meals.
Cholesterol levels do not an indicate the risk of heart disease.
A person can have low cholesterol and still develop heart
disease, where a person with high cholesterol may have no plaque
build up. As mentioned before the plaque starts from trauma to
the artery, not from high levels of cholesterol in the blood. So
even if a person has high cholesterol, if there is no trauma to
the arterial lining plaque will not form on the artery. Even so,
it is still a good idea to keep your cholesterol levels to a
reasonable level since we cannot determine if we have arterial
damage or not. My favorite method of reducing cholesterol is
with digestive bitters and lecithin granules, as explained
earlier. Digestive bitters are bitter tasting herbs that cleanse
the liver and stimulate the secretion of digestive secretions.
Bitters are put on the tongue and swallowed. When swallowed they
stimulate the bitter receptors on the back of the tongue. This
in turn stimulates a nerve, called the vagus nerve, which in
turn stimulates flushing of the liver allowing the liver to work
more efficiently. This is important because the liver not only
produces cholesterol, for hormone and vitamin synthesis, but it
also is responsible for breaking down excess cholesterol in the
blood. This is one of the reasons I am so against pharmaceutical
statin drugs, used to lower cholesterol. These drugs are well
known for causing liver damage, which when damaged will raise
cholesterol levels excessively high. Red yeast rice is a good
alternative to statin drugs, to lower cholesterol.
Soluble fibers also lower cholesterol. These are found in
fruits, especially apples, and vegetables. Oatmeal, rice bran,
and guar gum are also sources for soluble fibers.
Elevated homocysteine levels are believed to play a role in
heart disease, though it is not clear how it contributes to
heart disease. Homocysteine can be reduced though with SAMe or
trimethylglycine (TMG). Personally I prefer TMG, which is a
stronger methyl donor than SAMe, and TMG is considerably less
expensive.
#Post#: 579--------------------------------------------------
HEPATITIS
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:18 pm
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Hepatitis; Kava & Hepatitis
A common misconception about hepatitis is that it is a viral
condition. This is true in some cases of hepatitis, though not
all. Hepatitis, which literally means inflammation of the liver,
may occur from viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, chemical
damage, or from autoimmunity.
Symptoms of hepatitis generally appear from several weeks to a
month and a half after exposure to the microbes that may cause
hepatitis. Chemical induced hepatitis is more sudden in its
onset of symptoms. An example of chemical induced hepatitis is
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, etc.), which caused two-dozen
deaths from ibuprofen induced liver failure during clinical
trials of the drug. Symptoms of hepatitis may include nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, light colored and loose stools, very dark
urine, fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, abdominal pain,
joint pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Diagnosis of hepatitis is made based on several criteria,
including the presence of symptoms of hepatitis, elevation of
certain liver enzymes (ALT and AST), presence of hepatitis virus
RNA, reactive antibodies to hepatitis antibody tests, and liver
biopsies. The antibody tests are supposed to determine the
presence of specific virus antibodies, which are designated as
hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E. Though these antibody tests do not
prove the presence of the virus, or even previous exposure. We
are taught that antibodies are specific to their intended
targets, though this is not always true. The body normally
produces high affinity antibodies as its primary antibody, with
a smaller number of low affinity antibodies, which are less
specific to antigens. In some cases, such as autoimmune
conditions, the ratio of high affinity to low affinity
antibodies is reversed. Since the low affinity antibodies cannot
tell the difference between healthy tissues and antigens, such
as microbes, these less specific antibodies tag healthy tissues
for destruction by the body's immune system.
Another way to look at this is with the production of monoclonal
antibodies for disease research. In this process a sample of
blood serum is reacted with an antigen test target. After the
antibodies have attached themselves to the target the target is
immersed in a weak solution of sodium sulfate, which remove many
of the weaker low affinity antibodies. The target is then
immersed in a slightly stronger solution to remove the slightly
more specific antibodies. This process is repeated until only
the very specific high affinity antibodies are remaining. These
are then used to produce the monoclonal antibodies.
All of this information is important because this is the same
reason that antibody tests often yield false positive tests.
When antibody tests are used to make a diagnosis, such as with
HIV or hepatitis, we assume that the antibodies were produced in
response to the particular virus that the test is trying to
detect. This would work if antibodies were target specific, but
as we have seen they are not. For instance HIV antibody tests
have 65 known causes of false positives with these tests,
primarily due to a process known as serological cross-
reactivity. Basically this means that antibodies of like
structure can cross react on antibody tests. For example
antibodies produced from vaccinations for polio, typhoid,
malaria, and influenza (flu) have all been shown to react false
positive on HIV tests. Other antibodies that have been shown to
cross react on HIV antibody tests include maternal antibodies
from pregnancy or multiple pregnancies, BLV antibodies from beef
or cow's milk, autoimmune conditions; especially lupus, and even
hepatitis. Gamma globulin shots have also found to yield false
positives on HIV test targets due to the high concentration of
pooled antibodies present, some of which could be cross reacting
or are specific to the virus being tested for. Furthermore, a
true positive antibody test does not mean that the person is
currently infected with that virus. If a person becomes infected
with the influenza virus they develop antibodies to that virus.
After a short period of time their body will fight off the virus
successfully, though the antibodies remain. Therefore if they
went and had an ELISA or Western blot antibody test a few weeks
later to detect the presence of influenza virus antibodies, they
would test positive even though they were no longer infected
with the virus itself. The same principle applies to HIV and
hepatitis antibody tests. If the body successfully defends
itself from the virus antibodies to the virus will be present
even though the virus itself is no longer present.
The point of all this is that since the cause of the disease
cannot always be positively identified, hepatitis should be
treated with broad range antimicrobials, that kills viruses,
bacteria, and fungi, as well as anti-inflammatory and liver
support herbs. A sample of herbs that address these factors
include:
ANTIVIRALS, ANTIBIOTICS, ANTIFUNGALS chaparral, pau d' arco,
amla, turmeric, myrrh, dulse, schisandra berry, poke root (small
doses), licorice root (small doses), phyllanthus, picrorrhiza
ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES chaparral, pau d' arco, amla berry,
turmeric, phyllanthus, picrorrhiza, bupleurum
LIVER PROTECTANTS AND REGENERATORS turmeric, milk thistle seed,
schisandra berry, bupleurum, artichoke leaf
IMMUNE STIMULANTS chaparral, pau d' arco, bupleurum, astragalus,
myrrh, picrorrhiza, poke root (small doses), licorice root
(small doses), schisandra berry, dulse, maitake
People with hepatitis from any cause should avoid alcohol
consumption. I also recommend that they avoid over the counter
minoxidil (Rogaine), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), since these drugs can
damage the liver. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever
been diagnosed with hepatitis since many prescription
pharmaceutical drugs, such as statin drugs used to lower
cholesterol, may cause severe damage to the liver.
Diet is another important consideration. I recommend that anyone
with liver problems avoid high protein consumption since such
diets can strain the liver. Protein sources, such as meats and
dairy, often contain hormones and antibiotics as well that the
liver must deal with. Sugars, including honey should also be
limited since sugar suppresses immune function. This occurs
because both sugar and vitamin C require insulin for transport.
When sugar is consumed insulin is tied up making it unavailable
for vitamin C transport. When vitamin C cannot reach the white
blood cells, white blood cell activity is lowered decreasing
immunity. If a sweetener is desired then I recommend the herb
stevia, or stevia extract. The sugar molecules in stevia are too
large to be absorbed and therefore they do not affect blood
sugar or immunity. You only need a small amount of stevia due to
the intense sweetness of the herb. The diet should consist
primarily of vegetables. Carrots are especially good for the
liver.
Water is very important since water is needed to flush toxins
out from the body. Drinks containing caffeine should be avoided
since caffeine is a diuretic, which stimulates the excretion of
water from the body. Fruit juices should be limited because of
their high sugar content. If you juice your own vegetables I
recommend also juicing raw red potatoes and green tomatoes with
the other vegetables. Raw red potatoes and green tomatoes are
high in protease inhibitors, which inactivate viruses. Seeds,
including nuts, are also good sources of protease inhibitors.
Green tea is antiviral due to its high polyphenol content,
though it should not be taken with other herbs. Polyphenols
(tannins), also found in coffee, bind to alkaloids and other
beneficial compounds found in herbs rendering them useless to
the body. Rooibos tea is relatively unknown, though I highly
recommend it. Rooibos has no caffeine, and is very low in
tannins. Though it is rich in the enzyme superoxide dismutase
(SOD), which is anti-inflammatory, immune stimulatory, and
antioxidant. The tea has a pleasant flavor.
Here is a general list of some medications that are known for
causing liver damage: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, etc.),
naproxen sodium (Aleve), and celecoxib (Celebrex), acetaminophen
(Tylenol), minoxidil (Rogaine), and statin drugs used to lower
cholesterol.
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Kava and Hepatitis
As we can see, herbs are often claimed to have dangerous adverse
effects that do not really exist. The FDA commonly does this in
an attempt to gain more control over herbs, which helps them to
protect their illegal investments in pharmaceutical companies,
and to protect their cozy relationship. As with chaparral, kava
was also given a false reputation of causing cases of hepatitis.
Kava refers to the INNER ROOT of the kava plant. Kava has been
used for centuries as both medicine and as a mind altering drug,
when specially prepared. And for centuries it has had a
reputation of being quite safe, except when abused. By this I
mean extremely high doses over a period of time. Overuse by kava
addicts can lead to thickening and peeling of the skin. This has
never been seen in normal use of kava capsules. And no cases of
hepatitis were ever reported from traditional preparation and
use of kava.
A few years back though, there were actually cases of hepatitis
appearing out of nowhere in people taking kava supplements. The
medical journals, and news media jumped all over the story and
reported repeatedly that kava was dangerous and caused
hepatitis. Yet they never reported all the facts, or the truth,
even when the problem was exposed. In fact, the problem stemmed
from the greed of a pharmaceutical company looking to cash in on
the herbal movement bandwagon. The company traveled to Fiji to
obtain information on the use of the herb, and looking for kava
sources.
During traditional preparation, the islanders would strip off
the outer root bark and discard it. Only the inner root was
being used for consumption. The pharmaceutical company decided
that they could buy up all of the waste the islanders were
discarding for next to nothing, dry it, grind it, capsule it and
sell it. So this is exactly what they did. Though in the
blinding glare of dollar signs, and in their rush to get in on
the bandwagon, they overlooked an important rule of herbs. Not
all parts of a plant have the same chemistry! Though a few
plants will have basically the same alkaloids, glycosides, etc.
throughout the plant in varying amounts, this is not common. It
is more common to have totally different chemistries throughout
the plant, including the same areas of the plant. For example,
cocklebur root is a pain killer. The leaves are used to treat
asthma, and the seeds used to stop diarrhea. And when using
lapacho (pau d’ arco, taheebo, ipe roxo), the inner bark is
used, not the outer bark, which does not have the medicinal
properties. Kava is no different. The reason the islanders were
discarding the outer bark of the kava was because they knew that
the outer bark was toxic!
If the pharmaceutical company would have taken the time to ask
questions on the preparation, and looked into the chemistry then
the isolated cases of hepatitis could have been avoided, and
kava would not have received an undeserved bad reputation.
General use of the inner root of kava remains safe as it always
has.
#Post#: 580--------------------------------------------------
HORMONE IMBALANCE
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:22 pm
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Hormone Balance; Bioidentical Hormones
Hormone imbalances can occur at nearly any age. Normal pathway
for estrogen production starts with compounds, called acetates.
Acetates convert to progesterone, which then forms in to
estrogens. Though progesterone also antagonizes estrogens to
help maintain proper hormone balance. Estrogen converts in to
testosterone. When estrogen takes this pathway for production a
woman is progesterone dominant, and the hormones are in proper
balance. The alternate pathway for estrogen production is from
acetates to the adrenal hormone DHEA, then in to estrogen. In
this case the production of sufficient levels of progesterone is
being bypassed creating a condition known as estrogen dominance.
Symptoms of estrogen dominance include endometriosis, fibroids,
ovarian cysts, weight gain, thyroid suppression, depression,
lack of libido, insomnia, and an increase of facial hair from
the excess testosterone formed from the unopposed estrogen.
External hormone sources can aggravate these problems such as
birth control pills, estrogen replacement therapy, estrogens
found in farm raised meats, and xenoestrogens (dioxins, DDT,
PCBs, etc). The best ways to balance the hormones is to limit
exposure to estrogens, increase progesterone levels to regulate
estrogen, and to antagonize estrogens produced by the body or
external hormone sources. Here are some methods for maintaining
proper hormone balance:
1. Progesterone is both a precursor and an antagonist to
estrogens, and therefore balances estrogen levels. Progesterone
also stimulates bone growth and has an antidepressant action.
The best way to raise progesterone levels is with the herb
chaste tree berry (vitex). Vitex stimulates the pituitary gland
to form progesterone. Though vitex does take a minimum of 2
months to kick in. Recommended dosage is 1,000mg 3 times daily
on an empty stomach. Progesterone creams can be used short term
in conjunction with the vitex for faster results. Long term, or
high dose, use of hormones will cause the glands that normally
produce those hormones to atrophy (shrink). The body then
becomes dependant on the external source of hormones. This is
true of all hormone therapies (birth control pills, estrogen
replacement therapy, DHEA, melatonin, etc.), and raw glandular
therapy, since the glands must be forced to work to maintain
their health and activity. By substituting for the glands the
glands become lazy, and if hormone levels go too high the brain
will atrophy the gland to try and return hormone levels to a
proper level. Therefore I recommend that progesterone creams not
be used for more than 2 weeks a month and for 2 months at a
time. This allows sufficient levels of progesterone to build up
in the fat tissues, which will meet the body's progesterone
needs until the vitex can take effect allowing the body to
generate its own progesterone. Progesterone creams are applied
to the fatty areas of the body in a rotating manner. For
instance: Day 1 apply 1/2 teaspoon of the progesterone cream to
the right breast and rub it in. Day 2 apply the cream to the
left breast. Day 3 apply the cream to the left upper arm. Day 4
rub the cream on to the stomach. Day 5 apply the cream to the
left inner thigh. Day 6 apply the cream to the right inner
thigh. Day 7 apply the cream to the right upper arm. For the
next 7 days you should remain off of the cream. Then the same 7
day application cycle is repeated. Repeat for 2 months then it
is recommended that women discontinue the cream. After several
months off the cycle may be repeated if needed. Wild yam creams
are a safer alternative to progesterone creams. Wild yam, and
fenugreek seed, contain a substance, known as diosgenin, which
exerts a weak progesterone-like effect. In fact diosgenin is the
building block for the synthetic progesterone used in
progesterone creams. Diosgenin does not convert in to
progesterone in the body though. If wild yam or fenugreek are
taken orally the diosgenin will go from the stomach through the
liver where much of the diosgenin will be metabolized. By using
extracts of these herbs topically the diosgenin will absorb
through the skin and bypass the liver, yielding a stronger
effect.
2. Phytoestrogens are estrogenic compounds found in plants. They
exert a weak estrogenic effect, on average 200 to 400 times
weaker than the estrogens produced by the body. They actually
function as estrogen regulators in the body by exerting their
weak estrogenic effects while also locking up estrogen receptors
to prevent the adverse effects of stronger estrogens in the
body. The highest herbal source of phytoestrogens is alfalfa.
Other excellent sources are red clover, black cohosh, dong quai,
fennel, fenugreek, licorice root, kudzu, and Japanese knotweed.
There are some dietary sources of phytoestrogens. These include
soy, sage yams, parsley, peas, and seaweeds.
3. Keeping the liver in proper working order is essential
because one role of the liver is to break down excess estrogens.
Poor diet, alcohol, and medications including pain relievers
(ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, et.), cholesterol lowering drugs,
Rogaine (minoxidil), and steroids can damage the liver. My
favorite herbs for supporting the liver are bupleurum, turmeric,
schisandra berry, artichoke leaf, and milk thistle. Bupleurum
would be my first choice since it also cleanses the liver.
Schisandra berry and artichoke leaf also cleanse the liver if
they are allowed to come in contact with the tongue since they
act as digestive bitters in this manner. Turmeric and milk
thistle are more supportive to the liver, but not detoxifying.
The best way to cleanse the liver is with digestive bitters.
Bitters are bitter tasting herbs, which are best taken in liquid
form since they must come in to contact with the tongue to work.
When bitters are swallowed they come in to contact with the
bitter receptors on the back of the tongue. When these receptors
are stimulated the vagus nerve is in turn stimulated. This in
turn stimulates a cleansing of the liver, which allows the liver
to work more efficiently. The name digestive bitters is derived
from the fact that digestive bitters stimulate the production of
stomach acid, bile secretions, and pancreatic digestive enzymes,
thereby improving digestion. They are sold in health food stores
under names such as Swedish Bitters, Grape Bitters, and Ginger
Bitters.
4. The intestines contain beneficial flora (bacteria) that also
play a role in estrogen regulation. When the liver breaks down
the excess estrogens in the body estrogen metabolites are
formed. The intestinal flora break down these estrogen
metabolites in to harmless substances that are passed in the
feces. If these estrogen metabolites are not broken down and
eliminated they can be reabsorbed through the intestinal wall
back in to the bloodstream where they will add to the estrogen
load. The flora feed on fibers and other long chain sugar
molecules, known as fructooligosaccharides (FOS). Fruits and
vegetables are the best sources for fibers and FOS. Elecampane
is the highest herbal source for FOS. Yucca root and seaweeds
also benefit the flora by holding moisture in the colon making a
suitable environment for the flora to grow in. For the same
reason drinking plenty of water throughout the day is
recommended. Live culture yogurts and probiotic supplements can
help replace some of the strains of intestinal flora, but not
all of them. There are over 4,000 strains of beneficial flora
that inhabit the colon, so they cannot be replaced in a
probiotic supplement. Therefore, fibers and FOS should always be
used in conjunction with probiotic supplements.
5. B vitamins, especially vitamin B6, are very important. B
vitamins are required for the liver to break down excess
estrogens. And high levels of estrogens, such as with the use of
birth control pills or estrogen replacement therapy interfere
with the actions of B vitamins and deplete vitamin B6 from the
body. In fact many of the side effects of taking estrogen-based
birth control pills, such as depression, are believed to be due
to the depletion of vitamin B6 and the interference with the
utilization of other B vitamins.
6. Preventing bone loss is the only advantage of ERT, though the
risk of cancer, heart attacks and stroke all increase with the
use of ERT. Earlier studies claimed that ERT could help prevent
heart disease, though it was later proven that these earlier
studies were flawed.
7. The mineral boron helps to balance female hormones, and it
helps maintain bone strength. As little as 3mg of boron daily
has been shown to prevent bone loss even in the absence of
estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). Preventing bone loss is the
only advantage of ERT, though the risk of cancer, heart attacks
and stroke all increase with the use of ERT. Estrogens increase
the risk of strokes and heart attack because estrogens can
increase the risk of developing blood clots.
8. Avoid farm-raised meats, such as beef and chicken unless
organically grown. Dairy products should be avoided as well.
Farm animals are often given estrogens to fatten them up for
market and to increase milk production. Some of this estrogen
remains in the meats and milk, which will contribute to the
estrogen load increasing the risk of cancer and aggravating
hormone imbalances.
9. Finally, it is important to keep the adrenal glands healthy.
Though the ovaries are the primary source for the production of
progesterone, estrogens, and testosterone the adrenal glands
also produce these hormones. The adrenals do this to help
maintain hormone balance, and to help act as a cushion for when
the ovaries start to shut down during menopause. Stimulants
(caffeine, ephedrine, and nicotine), stress, and steroids are
the biggest killers for the adrenal glands, and therefore should
be avoided. The adrenal glands use more vitamin C than any other
part of the body, and should be supplemented. Stimulants and
stress increase the need for vitamin C. I prefer natural vitamin
C to synthetic vitamin C, which is synthesized from sugar. Amla
berries are the highest herbal source for vitamin C, followed by
camu camu and acerola cherries. The second most important
nutrient for the adrenals is pantothenic acid. The highest
herbal source for pantothenic acid is bee pollen. Various herbs
have a strengthening effect on the adrenal glands. Some of my
favorites are schisandra berry, licorice root, suma, Siberian
ginseng, astragalus, and nettle leaf.
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Bioidentical Hormones
There has been a lot of talk about bio-identical hormones
lately. They are being promoted as a "natural" alternative to
pharmaceutical hormones. Bio-identical hormones are not natural
though. They are synthesized in a lab, from plant sterols, just
like many pharmaceutical hormones.
The term bio-identical is rather misleading. This implies that
they are identical in every way to natural hormones. Though,
this may not be the case. More than one substance can share the
same atoms, and the same number of atoms yet still not be the
same. Location of the atoms, and bond angles can make a
substance different. For example glucose, galactose, and
fructose are all C6H12O6, yet they are all different sugars.
Hormones are no different. When synthesizing a compound I don't
see any way to prove that all atoms are in the same exact
position, nor that all bond angles are exactly the same. This is
like the claims that natural and synthetic vitamin Es are
identical. If this were the case though, then why are natural
vitamin Es considerably stronger than their synthetic
counterparts? There is obviously some differences. Since they
have identical types and number of atoms, the only difference
that could explain the difference in activity would be different
bond angles between these two substances that are supposed to be
identical.
There is a false belief that bio-identical hormones are safe.
Ever hear of problems like progesterone dominance? I find it
interesting that people promoting progesterone creams never
bring up this problem. Could it be because it would hurt their
sales or investments? Especially considering that the side
effects of progesterone dominance are almost identical to the
side effects of estrogen dominance. This has always made me
wonder how many women are increasing their use of progesterone
creams trying to treat what they feel is estrogen dominance,
when in fact they are actually suffering from progesterone
dominance.
Another fact that the sales people and sites fail to mention is
that these hormones store in the body. They are not flushed
within a short period of time as they claim. The majority of the
hormones absorbed through the skin do not go directly in to the
bloodstream. Instead the hormones store in the fat cells of the
body and gradually increase in levels as the hormones
accumulate. Many women that have been on progesterone creams for
a while often have years worth of progesterone stored up in
their fat cells. Keep in mind that this can also lead to atrophy
of the glands that produce the hormones causing a dependence on
the external source of hormones.
#Post#: 581--------------------------------------------------
HYPOGLYCEMIA
By: Admin Date: May 5, 2023, 9:27 pm
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Hypoglycemia
There are basically two forms of hypoglycemia, acute and chronic
hypoglycemia. Acute hypoglycemia, also known as reactive
hypoglycemia, occurs after eating a meal. In this case the blood
sugar goes up and the pancreas overreacts by secreting too much
insulin. This leads to a sudden and drastic drop in blood sugar.
This form of hypoglycemia is best treated with chromium
polynicotinate (not picolinate). The recommended dose for
chromium polynicotinate is 200mcg 3 times daily with meals.
Green stevia leaf, and nettle leaf are also excellent sources of
chromium. Chronic hypoglycemia stems from improperly working
adrenal glands. When a person does not eat the blood sugar
drops, which is normal. The adrenal glands will respond to the
drop in blood sugar by releasing a hormone called cortisol.
Cortisol stimulates the release of the stored sugar molecule
glycogen from the liver, which in turn restores proper blood
sugar levels. If the adrenal glands are not working properly a
sufficient level of cortisol is not released to elevate blood
sugar back to proper levels.
Treatment of this form of hypoglycemia involves building the
adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys. Other symptoms
that may indicate the adrenal glands are in a weakened state
include allergies, asthma, autoimmune disorders, chronic pain,
stress intolerance, hormone imbalances, and low blood pressure
or orthostatic hypotension (fainting feeling upon moving from a
lying or sitting position to a standing position). The most
important nutrient for the adrenal glands is vitamin C. The
adrenal glands use more vitamin C than any part of the body
followed by the eyes. My choice for vitamin C is amla berries,
which are the highest herbal source for vitamin C. And unlike
synthetic vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is very unstable, the
vitamin C in amla berries is stabilized by antioxidant
polyphenols also found in the berries. Therefore the vitamin C
in amla berries does not deteriorate from heat, light, and
oxidation like synthetic vitamin C. Amla also helps in the
treatment of hypoglycemia because it helps with protein
metabolism. The second most important nutrient for the adrenal
glands is pantothenic acid.
The highest herbal source of this nutrient is bee pollen, which
helps to explain its use in the treatment of allergies as well.
Pollens can come from different sources, and a person can be
allergic to some pollens and not others. Therefore it is very
important that you start out with only small amounts of pollen
any time you change your pollen source, even if you have not had
allergic reactions to bee pollen previously. There is a group of
herbs, known as adaptogens, which support adrenal function. My
favorites are schisandra berry, licorice root, suma, Siberian
ginseng, and ashwaganda. Finally I recommend avoiding steroidal
medications such as prednisone, stimulants such as ephedrine,
pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine all derived from
ephedra, also known as ma huang, and sida cordifolia, caffeine,
and nicotine, and reduce stress levels. Stress, stimulants and
steroids all tear down the adrenal glands quickly. Sugars,
including honey, should also be avoided because of their effects
on the blood sugar and adrenal glands. Stevia is a good
alternative to sugar since it has a more intense sweetness than
sugar yet it is not absorbed by the body. Since it is not
absorbed stevia does not increase blood sugar, or weight, and it
does not interfere with the immune system the way regular
dietary sugars do. Eating small, frequent, high protein snacks
will also help maintain proper blood sugar levels.
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