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Diet Perfect!

A vegetarian dinner at a Japanese Buddhist temple

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The perfect diet! Is there such a thing?  Possibly, if a person’s biochemical individuality is considered when making dietary recommendations, then it’s possible to have a perfect diet. Ideally, a diet should be tailored according to a person’s needs. And it should all start right after a baby is weaned off from his/her mother’s milk, which by the way, is a baby’s perfect food. You probably have heard of the blood type diet. It is a concept popularized by Dr. D’Adamo in his book called “Eat Right For Your Type” and actually endorsed by world-famous holistic MD, Dr. Jonathan Wright.  The dietary advise based on the blood type diet actually goes beyond the general recommendations given by dietitians, nutritionists or even some holistic practitioners.  The “blanket” recommendations given include a low fat/high protein diet, low carb diet, no hydrogenated oils/trans-fats, no artificial colorings/flavorings/preservatives, no caffeine, no high fructose corn syrup, hormone and antibiotic free meat, etc. There are also a lot of fad diets on the market such as the Atkin’s diet, South Beach diet, and the Mediterranean diet. It’s all good but the common denominator among these recommendations is that they’re generalized, cookie-cutter or a one-size-fits-all approach. The blood type diet is a small step towards individualizing dietary recommendations. People with type O blood do well on a diet that’s high in animal protein due to their higher production of Hydrochloric acid. Type A blood type usually do well on vegetarian diets. Blood type B individuals could tolerate dairy and fish and lastly, blood type AB do well on seafood, nuts and grains. Another interesting concept is based on the work of George Watson, proponent of the metabolic typing diet. A person can be a fast, slow, mixed or balanced oxidizer. Oxidation, by the way, refers to the burning of foods in the body for fuel/energy. Slow oxidizers metabolize food slowly while fast oxidizers metabolize food rapidly. Then, there are those who are mixed oxidizers, who vacillate between fast and slow oxidation. In summary, it’s really important to get to know a person well before making dietary recommendations. Fortunately, there are tests available that help us achieve this goal. These include functional intracellular analysis (or nutrient deficiency testing), food sensitivity/allergy testing, organic acid analysis and more.

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Waste in Your Waist

On overweight man's waistline.

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You got that right! There’s a lot of waste in your waist. And I don’t mean the waste products in your colon, however.  What I’m referring to are the toxic products that are in the fatty areas of the body, primarily the core or abdominal area. Toxins have a propensity to accumulate in fatty tissues because they are lipophilic or “fat-loving”. Other fatty areas in the body include the breast area in women and the neurological system in both sexes. The toxins found in these areas are primarily environmental toxins such herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals, VOC’s, and other dangerous chemicals. During the process of weight loss (fat loss, specifically), the body begins burning fat, in the process releasing all these toxic chemicals into the circulation. With poor detoxification mechanisms, these chemicals are just recirculated and deposited into other parts of the body where they interfere with function. That’s the reason why some people feel worse when they lose weight. It’s really important to enhance the detoxification pathways before embarking on such a program. Speaking of detoxification, one of the major organs responsible for this process is our liver. There are 2 phases of detoxification that goes on here. To simplify things, phase 1 primarily involves making toxic products less toxic and phase 2 involves preparing the toxin for excretion by conjugating it with certain nutrients. Deficiency of nutrients could interfere with either phase and lead to waste build up in the body. In summary, if one intends to lose weight, wait and do some research and then run to your nearest holistic health provider.

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Holistic Approach to Chronic Infections

Herbs: Thyme, oregano and rosemary

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Are antibiotics effective enough to take care of infections? We all hope so but it doesn’t always happen in real life especially in the case of chronic infections. A more comprehensive way of addressing chronic infections should involve the following: 1. reduction of microbial load through the use of anti-infective agents, 2. immune system support, 3. optimizing detoxification mechanisms, 4. nutritional support, 5. optimizing sleep/rest and 6. hormonal support. We all know the different ways to reduce microbial load. It involves the use of synthetic/prescription and herbal antibiotics, anti-virals, anti-parasitics and anti-fungals. Immune system support is critical, since ultimately, it’s our immune system that takes care of killing these microbes. Vitamins (vitamin C complex, vitamin D), minerals (selenium, zinc), herbal agents (echinacea), therapeutic-grade essential oils (oregano, clove, frankincense), homeopathic/spagyric remedies, and acupuncture are among the tools used to optimize immune system function. Support of detoxification mechanisms is absolutely essential to prevent a severe die-off or a Herxheimer reaction, a process that takes place when the body is overwhelmed with byproducts of microbial destruction. We’re looking at improving colon, kidney, liver, skin, lymphatic and lung function since all these organs are involved in detoxification (and drainage, for that matter). Having a sensible diet and the judicious use of nutritional supplements could go a long way in improving overall health. Sleep is a time when our body  repairs and regenerates itself. During this time (“anabolic phase” according to Dr. Revici’s work), our body secretes hormones such as growth hormone, prolactin and melatonin (which are all involved in the anabolic process). Finally, hormonal support is essential in cases of chronic infections. Our adrenals and thyroid could be burned out (from the stress of chronic infection) and supporting these organs could help the body overcome and win the fight against infection.

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Detoxification and Biochemical Individuality

Detox day

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Everybody needs to detox. True. Everybody should do the same detox program. False. We are all different and therefore, a cookie-cutter or a one-size-fits-all approach at detoxification would not work at all, ever! Fortunately, there are genetic tests available to determine if a person can tolerate a detoxification program. If a person’s tests turns out to be homozygous positive for one of these genes, then they better be careful when they’re undergoing a detox program. It’s better for these people to start slowly and perhaps work with a holistic health care practitioner who considers each person’s biochemical individuality. Other things to consider when going on a detoxification program, it’s important to focus downstream (on the bowels) before treating the upstream (liver, kidneys, etc). Otherwise, toxins would be recirculating into the body, practically making things worse. Ever wonder why some people experience a lot of side-effects or worse, deathly- ill when they’re undergoing a cleanse? Indeed, there is a truth to the the adage, death begins in the colon. So, it’s really important to focus on gastro-intestinal health. Whatever we put in our mouths affects everything else in the body. Don’t believe the “party-line” advise to eat whatever you want. I’ve heard it from “healthy” people and people with chronic degenerative disease (such as cancer) being told by their health care practitioner to do so. No wonder our country ranks only #17 as far as the healthiest industrialized nations in the world even though we spend the most in health care. Just something to ponder about.

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Natural Antibiotics

Lavande / lavender

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Are there such things? You bet! Ancient civilizations have used them in the past. Traditional medical systems such as Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine texts are replete with information on natural germ fighting agents. In very recent times, just in 1987 in fact, one of the most comprehensive studies was conducted in Scotland that determined the most powerful antibacterial agents. These include the essential oils of thyme, cinnamon, clove and geranium. According to another study published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology, the oils of cinnamon, thyme and clove killed 92% of 25 different Gram negative and positive bacterial strains. As a side note, do you know that Listerine antiseptic was originally named after Joseph Lister, the Father of modern surgical antisepsis? The formula has the following essential oils, namely; thymol (from thyme essential oil), eucalyptol (from eucalyptus essential oil), methyl salicylate (from wintergreen essential oil) and menthol (from peppermint essential oil). A study done in 1999 published at the Journal of Clinical Periodontology showed that a mouthwash that had the essential oils of thyme, peppermint, wintergreen and eucalyptus, was more effective in improving oral health than an antiseptic that was fluoride-based. In 2006, powerful anti-fungal oils were identified by researchers and they include the following: essential oils of cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, geranium and thyme. They were all found to be equal or superior to a well-known anti-fungal medication. Other natural anti-fungal agents include garlic, caprylic acid (from coconut), melaleuca (tea tree oil) and Saccharomyces boullardii (an anti-fungal yeast). One common infectious cause of gastritis is H. pylori. Mastic gum has been used traditionally to treat this. Other agents were found to be effective in a study conducted at the Kyoto Prefectural University in Japan. These include the essential oils of manuka, cinnamon bark, carrot seed, savory, white grapefruit, clove and eucalyptus. Meanwhile, natural anti-viral agents include eugenol from clove oil (found to be effective against Herpes virus), peppermint oil, and manuka essential oil. Finally, what natural agents are effective against MRSA and VRE antibiotic-resistant bacteria? In studies done at the Western Infirmary in Glasgow, UK, it was found that melaleuca, lavender, peppermint and thyme essential oils showed the strongest activity against these germs. Anyway, I want to acknowledge Dr. Carolyn de Marco for providing a lot of great information regarding the use of essential oils. If someone is suffering from an infectious illness, work with your healthcare provider on how to improve your immune system so that you won’t get sick in the first place.

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I Hate Germs!

Staphylococcus aureus - Antibiotics Test plate

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Everybody does! And the answer is not using petroleum-based or synthetic sanitizing agents to eradicate these germs(whether they’re in our bodies or the environment).It’s like throwing fuel into the fire. Anyway, you must have read about the article on NaturalNews.com regarding how antibiotics are practically becoming useless. This study was published by the journal, Lancet Infectious Diseases. What has led to this problem is the indiscriminate use of antibiotics (such as what happens when antibiotics are doled out like candy even for viral infections). Then, there’s the use of antibiotics on animal feed to fatten up the poor animals. These practices have led to resistance to practically all antibiotics and unless new ones are discovered ASAP, then we’re SOL. A different approach, instead of rushing to find more “weapons” against these microbes, is to strengthen overall immunity. With a strong immune system, these bugs are kept at bay and unless there’s a triggering event, they usually stay harmless. Take note that people who catch the flu bug don’t all get sick. It’s usually those with poor immune systems who get really sick and suffer from complications. What are the things we can do to strengthen the immune system? It all goes back to the basics which includes nutritious food, adequate pure water intake, deep breathing, stress reduction, having the right attitude and last but not least, spirituality. What about natural antibiotics? Check out my next blog entry…..

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Toxic!

Danger

Back in school, I never understood why the cause (or etiology) of a lot of chronic medical conditions (such as cancer or autoimmune diseases) was unknown or idiopathic. Perhaps, we were not taught to look deeply enough at that time. For whatever reason, it doesn’t make sense to just treat symptoms with synthetic drugs (or even natural ones). It’s always better to look for the cause or causes of illness and address those while also treating symptoms with the appropriate remedies. Otherwise, if the cause/causes are not addressed properly, the illness tends to return and get worse with time. One of the more common causes of chronic degenerative diseases are heavy metal toxins (other causes such as nutritional deficiencies and neurotoxins will be discussed later). These include mercury, lead, arsenic, aluminum, and cadmium among many others. Where do we get them from? Practically everywhere. Indoors and outdoors. It’s from our food, air and water. It’s found in natural and synthetic products. You don’t even have to try hard to get exposed to them. Guess what? Even babies are born with heavy metals present in their system. What are the overall effects of these toxins? Basically, they could deposit in any part of the body, particularly those fatty areas (since these metals are lipophilic) including the nervous system. They would then interfere with physiological processes by causing free radical damage as well as inflammation. It’s always a good idea to screen who presents with vague symptoms (or anyone for that matter, for preventive purposes) for heavy metal toxicity. Screening for heavy metals could be done through the blood, urine, hair and actual tissue samples. There are pros and cons to each type of specimen used for screening, of course. I recommend working with a holistic health care practitioner versed in detoxification or chelation therapy if levels are found to be elevated.

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on August 21, 2010

Just Breathe….

Fresh Air Breathing Exercises

It seems like a very simplistic advise but breathing can actually help a lot of conditions, not just lung problems. Breathing, before anything else, is much more than the intake of oxygen or the release of carbon dioxide. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is believed that during the process of breathing, your brain actually scans what’s going on in the rest of the body. When a person breathes in a shallow manner, then they’re not able to fully scan their body. When that happens, the central computer (our brains) cannot do it’s job of coordinating what goes on in the rest of the body. Such is the interconnectedness of the mind and body that the concept that each part of the body functions independently is crap, for the lack of a better word. Breathing is very important. Unfortunately, we often take this for granted. We sometimes focus too much on diet or hydration, to the detriment of learning proper breathing techniques. Although we may last for weeks without food or a few days without water, there’s only a few precious minutes that we can survive without (breathing) air. It’s important to take deep, diaphragmatic breaths (similar to that of a baby’s). Benefits include lowered stress levels, better sleep, and overall better health. Now, take some deep breaths ……

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I’ve got a headache!

Open bottles of Extra Strength Tylenol and Ext...

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Headaches are not fun at all. I’m not the one who would take medications right away though. However, I’ll probably use them as a last resort (of course, after I exhaust all the natural remedies available). The usual treatment for headaches would either be Tylenol or Advil or other anti-inflammatory agents (and in case of migraine headaches, ergot alkaloid agents). Natural pain-relief agents include feverfew and petadolex. They’re generally effective for symptom relief. Some lose their effectiveness over time, especially if the cause or causes are not addressed properly. There are different causes of headaches and they include the following: chronic dehydration, stress, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, food allergies, structural disorders, visual causes, metabolic disorders, and rarely, tumors. I’ll discuss the more common, easily treatable causes. Dehydration, of course could be easily corrected. ideally, a person needs to drink half of their body weight in ounces, more so if they’re active and sweating. Stress could be addressed by taking vitamins (B complex and C), minerals (Magnesium, Zinc), and adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola). Meditation, massage therapy and prayer all do help. Hormonal imbalances could also be a culprit (progesterone deficiency in women). Nutrient deficiencies including that of magnesium (natural vasodilator and muscle relaxant) and essential fatty acids (anti-inflammatory) could also cause headaches. Food sensitivities can trigger headaches as well. If a person knows what they’re sensitive or allergic to, it’s best to avoid them. Otherwise, address the cause of food sensitivities such as a “leaky gut.” Finally, metabolic disorders such as hypoglycemia can also be a cause of headaches. In summary, addressing the root causes of illness yields better, longer-lasting results than just symptomatic treatment alone.

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Hair Supply

I like big hair and I cannot lie.

Why is it that we’re seeing younger people getting hair loss at such an early age? Is it just a genetic issue or does it have to do with environmental factors as well? I believe that it’s due to both. Genetic causes of chronic degenerative disease is only about 3-4%, compared to greater than 90% due to environmental causes.

There’s a lot we can do to prevent or even reverse hair loss. We have to know the factors that lead to this condition. One, there’s the issue of poor circulation. Our hair needs to be nourished. Poor circulation means less nutrients going to the hair follicles. What causes poor circulation? Dietary factors such as intake of trans-fats or hydrogenated oils as well as calcium build-up along the arterial lining can do that. Poor nutrition also leads to hair loss. Where do you think our hair comes from? It comes from our food. Hair is primarily protein. Therefore, an adequate intake of amino acids should lead to a full head of hair. But, it’s not just that. An adequate amount of certain vitamins, minerals and glycosaminoglycans are also needed for healthy hair. Nutritious food should contain adequate nutrients. However, this is not always true because certain produce, esp. ones that are produced through commercial, chemical farming are nutritionally deficient. Produce farmed bio-dynamically and not just organically, should contain adequate amounts of nutrients to help our body renew itself (and that includes the hair).

What about personal products that damage the hair or hair follicles? There’s a substance in hair gels or products that could actually clog the hair follicles and cause them to ultimately die. The one implicated the most is a chemical called PVP coplymer, a petrochemical product. Avoid this at all costs. There are other chemicals that could cause damage to cells in general such as pthalates and sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate. Just notice how more companies are touting that they don’t contain these products.

Another cause of hair loss is hormonal imbalance. Undiagnosed thyroid issues could cause hair loss. A testosterone metabolite called DHT could cause hair loss, thus the popularity of synthetic DHT blockers such as Propecia or Avodart. A more natural way to influence testosterone metabolism is through the use of zinc supplements (which by the way is a very common nutritional deficiency). Other natural DHT blockers include saw palmetto, lycopene (from tomatoes), pygeum and stinging nettle. Low testosterone levels in men as well as low estrogen levels in women could also lead to hair loss. Isolated HGH deficiency could cause regeneration and repair to slow down as we age. That means, less production of new tissue, including our hair.

What do you do to improve HGH levels? Besides exercise, there are amino acids that stimulate HGH release from the pituitary. The most effective one for people over the age of 40 is L-glutamine. Goji berries has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to stimulate HGH release from the pituitary. Otherwise, a peptide called HGHRH (analogue) could also be used. I found this as effective as HGH, with less side effects.

What are other natural remedies that could stimulate hair growth? An Ayurvedic treatment includes the use of neem hair oil. Traditional Chinese medicine may recommend fo-ti pr he she wou. Essential oils that stimulate hair growth include therapeutic-grade peppermint, cedarwood, rosemary, lavender, thyme and sandalwood. Minoxidil works for some people but it does work better combined with substances such as retin-A, aldactone, progesterone, azelaic acid, copper peptides, SOD, and copper-zinc binding peptides.

Procedures one should consider before the last resort (hair transplant) include the use of low level laser therapy and the use of a micro-dermaroller. Consult with your holistic health care practitioner before incorporating any of the above suggestions.

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