Monday, August 11, 2008
From Fish Oil to Medicine
No nutrient is more important for decreasing cardiovascular death—and more lacking—than omega-3
By Bernadine Healy M.D.
With all the talk about fat being bad—whether it's on our bodies or in our diet—we have failed to take seriously a significant nutritional fat deficiency that afflicts most Americans: We have too little omega-3s of the kind found in oily fish, which cannot be made by the human body yet are essential to metabolism. Even though we need only a small dose, our western diet runs woefully low, forcing our cells to run their engines slightly off balance. Over time, this takes its toll. The deficiency significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, and mounting evidence suggests omega-3 shortages contribute to problems as disparate as premature birth, neurological disorders, mental illness, autoimmune disease, obesity, and certain cancers. This is no fish story: Raising omega-3s could be as important to public health as lowering cholesterol.
Think about that comparison. Reining in our nation's cholesterol levels over the past 40 years has yielded great benefit to health and longevity. The change was a grass-roots effort driven by individuals—patients motivated by test results and doctors who helped monitor and manage them. The National Cholesterol Education Program even launched a "know your number" campaign. But who knows their levels of omega-3s?
Well, we should. Omega-3 compounds, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, become embedded in the membrane of each of the trillions of cells that make up the body, and from that perch influence cell structure and function, including cell-to-cell communication and electrical stability. On demand, they also generate a reservoir of hormone like molecules to help blood vessels relax, tame inflammation, and reduce blood clotting. All cells feel the pinch of omega-3 deficiencies. Like a car that's out of tune, they run at a suboptimal level and are more prone to breakdown.
Based on what we currently know, says William Harris, director of metabolism and nutrition research at Sanford Research in Sioux Falls, S.D., there is no nutrient more important for decreasing risk of cardiovascular death—and more lacking—than omega-3. And its benefit to other organs is rapidly taking shape.
It is possible to measure a person's omega-3 levels, but the tests are used mainly for research. We don't yet know the range of acceptable values (as was the case for cholesterol), so there is a compelling need to determine optimal levels for age, sex, or medical condition. Knowing one's personal blood levels are too low would motivate dietary change or supplement use, and repeat testing would measure the patient's progress. Though the test is not covered by most insurance, individuals can get their numbers at boutique labs for $100 to $200.
Taking aim. For now, people use dietary targets rather than blood-level goals—that is, if they think about omega-3s at all. The recommendation of several public health organizations that everyone eat fish twice a week just isn't on the radar screens of most homes or doctor's offices. Moreover, not everyone responds the same way to a meal of omega-3s. Genes influence levels of omega-3s in the body, much as they do cholesterol. Some people, such as women of childbearing age, seem to be more effective in generating EPA and DHA from a lesser source, called alpha linolenic acid, found in certain plant oils. And, of course, not every fish meal delivers the same dose of nutrients. Nevertheless, the Japanese, who consume eight to 15 times more fish than we do—and have higher omega-3 blood levels to prove it—experience less heart disease and greater longevity despite smoking more.
Though the medical and nutrition communities generally believe eating fatty fish is the way to go, refined fish oil supplements with specified doses of EPA and DHA can make for a more certain prescription, and one that alleviates concerns about fish being contaminated with mercury or PCBs. (Nasty fish burps can be avoided by freezing the gel capsules and taking them at bedtime. And vegans can find supplements derived from algae, the fishes' omega-3 source.) The FDA, which oversees supplements, advises that patients should not take more than 2 grams without physician guidance. There is now a highly refined prescription form of omega-3 called Lovaza that can deliver the DHA and EPA at levels of 4 grams or more.
That's right. The FDA has approved an omega-3 pill as a medicine. So, we have a treatment and we have a blood test. Before long, your personal omega-3 index just could be the new cholesterol—the number you want to brag about.
Which fish oil do you use? How does it stack up to Metagenics EPA/DHA? Did you know Metagenics EPA/DHA is less expensive gram per gram than most professional brands, and have you seen Metagenics multiple purity assays? Please give us a call to see how your oil stacks up! JES 208-325-9292 www.jescollection.meta-ehealth.com
Showing posts with label depression. Show all posts
Showing posts with label depression. Show all posts
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Rhodiola Herbal Extract Found to Fight Off Depression
Rhodiola Herbal Extract Found to Fight Off Depression
by Michael Jolliffe
(NaturalNews) A new clinical trial has found that an extract of the herb Rhodiola could be a useful treatment for cases of mild to moderate depression.
The study, published in the Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, involved 80 participants, aged between 18 and 70, who were divided into three groups. The first received 340mg of Rhodiola extract daily, the second twice as much, and the third two capsules containing a placebo.
The results revealed that only the groups taking Rhodiola had found benefit, with particularly significant improvements in insomnia and emotional instability, and no adverse effects.
Rhodiola is thought to work against depression in two ways. Firstly, researchers believe the herb blocks the enzyme monoamine oxidase in a manner similar to the early drug anti-depressants such as amitriptyline, which helps the brain to retain levels of 'feel good' neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Rhodiola is also believed to calm a part of the brain known as the HPA axis, which connects the brain to the adrenal glands. High levels of adrenal stress hormones have consistently been found in individuals suffering from depression, but Rhodiola may address this imbalance and help to restore normal levels.
The plant has a long history of traditional usage associated with improving strength, motivation and resistance to stress and fatigue. Early records suggest that civilisations as old as the Vikings have prized and cultivated Rhodiola. It was equally prized by Soviet researchers during the Cold War, who successfully tested its application with both athletes and astronauts.
Experts have commented on the promise that this latest research holds for the treatment of depression. Dr. Richard Brown, associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, and one of the world's leading experts on Rhodiola, called for additional studies 'to explore and establish the potential applications of the herb', but stated his belief that both sufferers and researchers should be 'encouraged' by the results.
About the author
Michael Jolliffe is a health writer, and an expert on nutritional and environmental influences on health and disease. He is a member of the British Association for Nutritional Therapy, International Society for Orthomolecular Medicine and the Life Extension Foundation.
by Michael Jolliffe
(NaturalNews) A new clinical trial has found that an extract of the herb Rhodiola could be a useful treatment for cases of mild to moderate depression.
The study, published in the Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, involved 80 participants, aged between 18 and 70, who were divided into three groups. The first received 340mg of Rhodiola extract daily, the second twice as much, and the third two capsules containing a placebo.
The results revealed that only the groups taking Rhodiola had found benefit, with particularly significant improvements in insomnia and emotional instability, and no adverse effects.
Rhodiola is thought to work against depression in two ways. Firstly, researchers believe the herb blocks the enzyme monoamine oxidase in a manner similar to the early drug anti-depressants such as amitriptyline, which helps the brain to retain levels of 'feel good' neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Rhodiola is also believed to calm a part of the brain known as the HPA axis, which connects the brain to the adrenal glands. High levels of adrenal stress hormones have consistently been found in individuals suffering from depression, but Rhodiola may address this imbalance and help to restore normal levels.
The plant has a long history of traditional usage associated with improving strength, motivation and resistance to stress and fatigue. Early records suggest that civilisations as old as the Vikings have prized and cultivated Rhodiola. It was equally prized by Soviet researchers during the Cold War, who successfully tested its application with both athletes and astronauts.
Experts have commented on the promise that this latest research holds for the treatment of depression. Dr. Richard Brown, associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, and one of the world's leading experts on Rhodiola, called for additional studies 'to explore and establish the potential applications of the herb', but stated his belief that both sufferers and researchers should be 'encouraged' by the results.
About the author
Michael Jolliffe is a health writer, and an expert on nutritional and environmental influences on health and disease. He is a member of the British Association for Nutritional Therapy, International Society for Orthomolecular Medicine and the Life Extension Foundation.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Happiness 1-2-3! A Safe and Highly Effective Treatment for Depression
Happiness 1-2-3! A Safe and Highly Effective Treatment for Depression
by Jacob Teitelbaum M.D.
By looking at American society today, one would think that there is a massive epidemic of Prozac deficiency. Millions of Americans are complaining of being unhappy and depressed — yet most doctors simply throw a pill at the problem! I prefer to go after the underlying causes, while using natural therapies to support the biochemistry of happiness. When you do this, most depression can be effectively treated — without the loss of libido, weight gain, fatigue, or increased risk of suicide seen with prescription antidepressants.
I'm tired of being depressed and want to be happy! How should I begin?
Let's look at both the physical and psycho-spiritual components — which is a good approach for any illness.
From a psychological perspective, depression usually represents repressed anger which has been turned inward. This is why choosing to allow yourself to be angry or even to sometimes go into a rage can be healthy when you’re depressed — even if the people around you don't like it. You can tell when the anger is healthy because it will feel good. Remember though, that you are choosing to be angry, and what you are angry about is nobody else's fault (so don't beat up others with your anger). When you don't allow guilt to get in the way, notice how your depression decreases and you feel better after a good fit of anger!
My book "Three Steps to Happiness — Healing through Joy" will take you through the three steps that psycho-spiritually will help you to get past depression and leave you feeling great.
These are:
1. Feel all of your feelings without the need to understand or justify them. When they no longer feel good, let go of them. The book will teach you how to do this.
2. Make life a "no-fault" system. This means No Blame, No-Fault, No Guilt, No Judgment, and No Expectations on yourself or anyone else. This means you'll be changing habits of thinking. For example, if you find yourself judging somebody, simply drop the judgment in mid-thought when you notice it. And no judging your self for judging others!
3. Learn to keep your attention on what feels good. We sometimes are given the misconception that keeping attention on problems is more realistic. That is nonsense! Life is like a massive buffet with thousands of options. You can choose to keep your attention on those things that feel good. You'll notice that if a problem truly requires your attention at any given time, it will feel good to focus on it. Otherwise, you're living your life as if you have 200 TV channels to choose from, and you only choose to watch the ones you don't like!
From a physical perspective, depression often reflects faulty biochemistry. Begin by asking yourself this simple question — "do I have many interests?". If the answer is yes, you're probably not depressed but rather have other physical problems causing how you feel. Common causes would include poor sleep, infections, thyroid and other hormonal deficiencies (despite normal blood tests!) and nutritional deficiencies. For more information on treating these areas, see www.vitality101.com or my book "From Fatigued to Fantastic!".
This is especially important to do if you have a combination of exhaustion, poor sleep, and in many cases widespread achiness. If this is so, you may well have chronic fatigue syndrome/fibromyalgia for which effective treatment is now available and not depression. If you do not have many interests, you probably are depressed and the treatments below will be very helpful for you. Fortunately, depression is also very treatable.
What can I do to feel better while I'm going after these underlying problems?
Happiness has its own biochemistry which can be powerfully balanced and enhanced naturally. Overall nutritional support is essential, and I would recommend a good multivitamin powder (my favorite is the Energy Revitalization System). Also begin a walking program. Research has shown that walking briskly each day is as effective as Prozac for depression. Use herbal support if needed to get eight hours of sleep a night as well.
It is also critical that your body has what it needs to make the three key "happiness" neurotransmitters that your body needs. These are serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. B vitamins and magnesium are critical for energy production, as well as for producing the hormones and neurotransmitters that contribute to your feeling good! The good news is that everything you need to do this can be found in the "Happiness 1-2-3!" supplement. Unlike most natural antidepressants that contain one or two things that help you feel better, this product combines 12 different treatments in optimal levels — to help get you feeling great again! Many of these are each individually as effective as antidepressant medications in head on studies. Let's review these, beginning with the basics.
1. B12 and folate/folic acid seem to be especially important, and I believe that the term RDA may as well stand for Ridiculous Dietary Allowances! You want at least 600 — 1800 mcg of vitamin B12 and 400-1200 micrograms of folic acid a day to be sure that optimal levels are getting into the brain where they are needed. Approximately a third of patients with depression have been found to be deficient in folic acid, and this by itself can cause depression as can B12 deficiency. In addition, these two nutrients together contribute strongly to the production of both serotonin (the "happiness molecule") and a powerful depression fighting nutrient called SAMe. In fact, studies of high-dose folic acid have shown this nutrient by itself to be as effective as antidepressant medications — but much safer and without side effects!
2. The B vitamins riboflavin and niacin are critical for energy production. In fact, these vitamins are key components of the "energy molecules" (like "energy dollars" — wouldn't it be nice to have your own printing press!) NADH and FADH. Depression is a common symptom of niacin and riboflavin deficiency.
3. Vitamin B-6 levels are generally quite low in depressed patients, and this is especially problematic in women taking birth control pills or estrogen — both of which can deplete vitamin B-6 levels. Vitamin B6 is critical in the production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Sadly, it is likely that millions of people on Prozac are simply suffering from depression caused by vitamin B-6 deficiency.
4. Magnesium deficiency is the single most important nutritional deficiency in the United States. Where the average Chinese diet contains ~ 650 mg of magnesium a day, because of food processing the average American diet only contains around 250 mg. This contributes to pain, fatigue, and increased risk of heart attacks, depression, and numerous other problems as magnesium is critical in over 300 different reactions in our body. In fact, numerous studies have shown that in areas with higher magnesium levels in the water, heart attack deaths decreased markedly.
5. Prescription antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil, and Wellbutrin work by raising levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and Norepinephrine. Unfortunately, because these medications work by poisoning critical pathways in your body, they are rife with side effects. A much safer and more effective way to raise these neurotransmitter levels is to give your body the building blocks it needs to make them. Serotonin is made from 5 Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), and dopamine and Norepinephrine are made from tyrosine. Numerous double-blind (i.e. "gold standard") studies have shown 5HTP to be as effective as prescription antidepressants but much better tolerated. Another placebo-controlled study has shown tyrosine to also be as effective as antidepressants without side effects. In addition, if 5 HTP is given without tyrosine, it often stops working after a few months. Giving tyrosine along with the 5 HTP results in long-lasting improvement.
6. Most of you have heard of St. John's wort, and 25 double-blind studies with a total of over 1500 patients have shown it to be as effective as prescription antidepressants — without the side effects. In addition to being effective in eliminating depression, it also helped sleep, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
7. Magnolia bark has a long history of use in traditional Chinese formulas that relieve anxiety and depression without leaving you feeling like you've been drugged. Magnolia Extract is rich in two phytochemicals, honokiol which exerts an anti-anxiety effect and magnolol which acts as an anti-depressant. Like many of the other components in the "Happiness 1-2-3" product, Magnolia has the ability to alleviate depression and stress without sedating you. Dozens of animal studies have shown that it is a non-addictive, non-sedating antidepressant — even at low doses.
The good news is that you can now often effectively eliminate depression safely and without the side effects of antidepressants — with the natural blend found in "Happiness 1-2-3!" Because this product is very effective at raising serotonin (and therefore treating depression), if you are taking prescription anti-depressants as well, only take this product if OK'd by your Holistic physician and stop it if you have a persistently elevated pulse rate (a sign of too much serotonin). In my practice, I will use these herbs in full dose along with low dose anti-depressants and lower the dose of the antidepressants 2-3 weeks after beginning the herbs if the person is on a high dose of anti-depressants.
If the person is not yet on anti-depressants or only on low doses, I have them begin with three capsules three times a day (again, unless you are on high-dose antidepressants, in which case I usually give 2-3 capsules twice a day in my practice). Although some effect is seen within 2-3 weeks, the effects continue to powerfully increase over 6 weeks with continued use. Once your depression is under control, the dose can then be lowered, and you can ask your physician about tapering off of your antidepressants (which should not be stopped suddenly, else you may have withdrawal).
With "Happiness 1-2-3!", it's time to say goodbye to Prozac and depression!
Jacob Teitelbaum MD is an expert in Comprehensive Medicine and Medical director of the Annapolis Center for Effective CFS/Fibromyalgia Therapies in Annapolis, Maryland (410-266-6958) and senior author of the landmark study "Effective Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia — a Placebo-controlled Study". He is also the author of the best-selling book "From Fatigued to Fantastic!" , "Three Steps to Happiness! Healing through Joy", and the recently released "Pain Free 1-2-3- A Proven Program to Get YOU Pain Free!"
by Jacob Teitelbaum M.D.
By looking at American society today, one would think that there is a massive epidemic of Prozac deficiency. Millions of Americans are complaining of being unhappy and depressed — yet most doctors simply throw a pill at the problem! I prefer to go after the underlying causes, while using natural therapies to support the biochemistry of happiness. When you do this, most depression can be effectively treated — without the loss of libido, weight gain, fatigue, or increased risk of suicide seen with prescription antidepressants.
I'm tired of being depressed and want to be happy! How should I begin?
Let's look at both the physical and psycho-spiritual components — which is a good approach for any illness.
From a psychological perspective, depression usually represents repressed anger which has been turned inward. This is why choosing to allow yourself to be angry or even to sometimes go into a rage can be healthy when you’re depressed — even if the people around you don't like it. You can tell when the anger is healthy because it will feel good. Remember though, that you are choosing to be angry, and what you are angry about is nobody else's fault (so don't beat up others with your anger). When you don't allow guilt to get in the way, notice how your depression decreases and you feel better after a good fit of anger!
My book "Three Steps to Happiness — Healing through Joy" will take you through the three steps that psycho-spiritually will help you to get past depression and leave you feeling great.
These are:
1. Feel all of your feelings without the need to understand or justify them. When they no longer feel good, let go of them. The book will teach you how to do this.
2. Make life a "no-fault" system. This means No Blame, No-Fault, No Guilt, No Judgment, and No Expectations on yourself or anyone else. This means you'll be changing habits of thinking. For example, if you find yourself judging somebody, simply drop the judgment in mid-thought when you notice it. And no judging your self for judging others!
3. Learn to keep your attention on what feels good. We sometimes are given the misconception that keeping attention on problems is more realistic. That is nonsense! Life is like a massive buffet with thousands of options. You can choose to keep your attention on those things that feel good. You'll notice that if a problem truly requires your attention at any given time, it will feel good to focus on it. Otherwise, you're living your life as if you have 200 TV channels to choose from, and you only choose to watch the ones you don't like!
From a physical perspective, depression often reflects faulty biochemistry. Begin by asking yourself this simple question — "do I have many interests?". If the answer is yes, you're probably not depressed but rather have other physical problems causing how you feel. Common causes would include poor sleep, infections, thyroid and other hormonal deficiencies (despite normal blood tests!) and nutritional deficiencies. For more information on treating these areas, see www.vitality101.com or my book "From Fatigued to Fantastic!".
This is especially important to do if you have a combination of exhaustion, poor sleep, and in many cases widespread achiness. If this is so, you may well have chronic fatigue syndrome/fibromyalgia for which effective treatment is now available and not depression. If you do not have many interests, you probably are depressed and the treatments below will be very helpful for you. Fortunately, depression is also very treatable.
What can I do to feel better while I'm going after these underlying problems?
Happiness has its own biochemistry which can be powerfully balanced and enhanced naturally. Overall nutritional support is essential, and I would recommend a good multivitamin powder (my favorite is the Energy Revitalization System). Also begin a walking program. Research has shown that walking briskly each day is as effective as Prozac for depression. Use herbal support if needed to get eight hours of sleep a night as well.
It is also critical that your body has what it needs to make the three key "happiness" neurotransmitters that your body needs. These are serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. B vitamins and magnesium are critical for energy production, as well as for producing the hormones and neurotransmitters that contribute to your feeling good! The good news is that everything you need to do this can be found in the "Happiness 1-2-3!" supplement. Unlike most natural antidepressants that contain one or two things that help you feel better, this product combines 12 different treatments in optimal levels — to help get you feeling great again! Many of these are each individually as effective as antidepressant medications in head on studies. Let's review these, beginning with the basics.
1. B12 and folate/folic acid seem to be especially important, and I believe that the term RDA may as well stand for Ridiculous Dietary Allowances! You want at least 600 — 1800 mcg of vitamin B12 and 400-1200 micrograms of folic acid a day to be sure that optimal levels are getting into the brain where they are needed. Approximately a third of patients with depression have been found to be deficient in folic acid, and this by itself can cause depression as can B12 deficiency. In addition, these two nutrients together contribute strongly to the production of both serotonin (the "happiness molecule") and a powerful depression fighting nutrient called SAMe. In fact, studies of high-dose folic acid have shown this nutrient by itself to be as effective as antidepressant medications — but much safer and without side effects!
2. The B vitamins riboflavin and niacin are critical for energy production. In fact, these vitamins are key components of the "energy molecules" (like "energy dollars" — wouldn't it be nice to have your own printing press!) NADH and FADH. Depression is a common symptom of niacin and riboflavin deficiency.
3. Vitamin B-6 levels are generally quite low in depressed patients, and this is especially problematic in women taking birth control pills or estrogen — both of which can deplete vitamin B-6 levels. Vitamin B6 is critical in the production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Sadly, it is likely that millions of people on Prozac are simply suffering from depression caused by vitamin B-6 deficiency.
4. Magnesium deficiency is the single most important nutritional deficiency in the United States. Where the average Chinese diet contains ~ 650 mg of magnesium a day, because of food processing the average American diet only contains around 250 mg. This contributes to pain, fatigue, and increased risk of heart attacks, depression, and numerous other problems as magnesium is critical in over 300 different reactions in our body. In fact, numerous studies have shown that in areas with higher magnesium levels in the water, heart attack deaths decreased markedly.
5. Prescription antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil, and Wellbutrin work by raising levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and Norepinephrine. Unfortunately, because these medications work by poisoning critical pathways in your body, they are rife with side effects. A much safer and more effective way to raise these neurotransmitter levels is to give your body the building blocks it needs to make them. Serotonin is made from 5 Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), and dopamine and Norepinephrine are made from tyrosine. Numerous double-blind (i.e. "gold standard") studies have shown 5HTP to be as effective as prescription antidepressants but much better tolerated. Another placebo-controlled study has shown tyrosine to also be as effective as antidepressants without side effects. In addition, if 5 HTP is given without tyrosine, it often stops working after a few months. Giving tyrosine along with the 5 HTP results in long-lasting improvement.
6. Most of you have heard of St. John's wort, and 25 double-blind studies with a total of over 1500 patients have shown it to be as effective as prescription antidepressants — without the side effects. In addition to being effective in eliminating depression, it also helped sleep, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
7. Magnolia bark has a long history of use in traditional Chinese formulas that relieve anxiety and depression without leaving you feeling like you've been drugged. Magnolia Extract is rich in two phytochemicals, honokiol which exerts an anti-anxiety effect and magnolol which acts as an anti-depressant. Like many of the other components in the "Happiness 1-2-3" product, Magnolia has the ability to alleviate depression and stress without sedating you. Dozens of animal studies have shown that it is a non-addictive, non-sedating antidepressant — even at low doses.
The good news is that you can now often effectively eliminate depression safely and without the side effects of antidepressants — with the natural blend found in "Happiness 1-2-3!" Because this product is very effective at raising serotonin (and therefore treating depression), if you are taking prescription anti-depressants as well, only take this product if OK'd by your Holistic physician and stop it if you have a persistently elevated pulse rate (a sign of too much serotonin). In my practice, I will use these herbs in full dose along with low dose anti-depressants and lower the dose of the antidepressants 2-3 weeks after beginning the herbs if the person is on a high dose of anti-depressants.
If the person is not yet on anti-depressants or only on low doses, I have them begin with three capsules three times a day (again, unless you are on high-dose antidepressants, in which case I usually give 2-3 capsules twice a day in my practice). Although some effect is seen within 2-3 weeks, the effects continue to powerfully increase over 6 weeks with continued use. Once your depression is under control, the dose can then be lowered, and you can ask your physician about tapering off of your antidepressants (which should not be stopped suddenly, else you may have withdrawal).
With "Happiness 1-2-3!", it's time to say goodbye to Prozac and depression!
Jacob Teitelbaum MD is an expert in Comprehensive Medicine and Medical director of the Annapolis Center for Effective CFS/Fibromyalgia Therapies in Annapolis, Maryland (410-266-6958) and senior author of the landmark study "Effective Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia — a Placebo-controlled Study". He is also the author of the best-selling book "From Fatigued to Fantastic!" , "Three Steps to Happiness! Healing through Joy", and the recently released "Pain Free 1-2-3- A Proven Program to Get YOU Pain Free!"
Monday, October 29, 2007
Damp Moldy Conditions Got You Down?
Damp Moldy Conditions Got You Down?
by Laura Weldon (NewsTarget)
You may notice mold in your home by its musty smell or those unsightly spreading blotches on shower curtains, ceilings or walls. What you might not associate with mold is an emotional problem. But an article in the October issue of American Journal of Public Health makes that connection. It reports on a study that has found a link between mold in the home and an increased incidence of depression.
This association between mold and mood disorder was found by questioning six thousand adults from Germany, Italy, Switzerland and five other countries. They were asked about health and living conditions. Then their homes were visually assessed for prevalence of mold. Even when issues typically associated with depression such as overcrowding and unemployment were factored in, researchers still found more depression among those who lived in moldy homes.
In fact, the study found that among those who lived in moldy surroundings the risk for depression went up approximately 40 percent.
Lead study author Edmond D. Shenassa of Brown University School of Medicine in Rhode Island indicates that it isn’t clear whether the moldy conditions led to the development of depression, or whether people who are already depressed are less likely to combat mold in the home. He’s ready to do more work to pinpoint cause and effect.
Molds are fungi found everywhere as a natural part of the environment. To grow, mold requires water. When a home has excessive moisture these fungi can reproduce rapidly, producing millions of microscopic spores that can become airborne and cause allergies and other health problems. Vulnerable individuals, such as people with preexisting illnesses, are particularly at risk.
A study published in the September issue of The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports that a dilute household bleach solution (1:16 bleach to water) effectively kills common mold. Researchers at the National Jewish Medical and Research Center say that dead mold can still precipitate allergic reactions, but they found the bleach solution neutralizes the mold allergens that caused reactions in their test subjects.
Check with the Environmental Protection Agency for information on mold prevention and clean up www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html .
by Laura Weldon (NewsTarget)
You may notice mold in your home by its musty smell or those unsightly spreading blotches on shower curtains, ceilings or walls. What you might not associate with mold is an emotional problem. But an article in the October issue of American Journal of Public Health makes that connection. It reports on a study that has found a link between mold in the home and an increased incidence of depression.
This association between mold and mood disorder was found by questioning six thousand adults from Germany, Italy, Switzerland and five other countries. They were asked about health and living conditions. Then their homes were visually assessed for prevalence of mold. Even when issues typically associated with depression such as overcrowding and unemployment were factored in, researchers still found more depression among those who lived in moldy homes.
In fact, the study found that among those who lived in moldy surroundings the risk for depression went up approximately 40 percent.
Lead study author Edmond D. Shenassa of Brown University School of Medicine in Rhode Island indicates that it isn’t clear whether the moldy conditions led to the development of depression, or whether people who are already depressed are less likely to combat mold in the home. He’s ready to do more work to pinpoint cause and effect.
Molds are fungi found everywhere as a natural part of the environment. To grow, mold requires water. When a home has excessive moisture these fungi can reproduce rapidly, producing millions of microscopic spores that can become airborne and cause allergies and other health problems. Vulnerable individuals, such as people with preexisting illnesses, are particularly at risk.
A study published in the September issue of The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports that a dilute household bleach solution (1:16 bleach to water) effectively kills common mold. Researchers at the National Jewish Medical and Research Center say that dead mold can still precipitate allergic reactions, but they found the bleach solution neutralizes the mold allergens that caused reactions in their test subjects.
Check with the Environmental Protection Agency for information on mold prevention and clean up www.epa.gov/mold/moldresources.html .
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Alternative Relief for Depression
Before beginning a drug regimen for depression, try these alternative methods:
- Daily exercise
- Complete abstinence from junk food and highly processed foods
- Avoidance of sugar and high glycemic foods
- Improved sleep habits
- Folate supplements
- B complex supplements
Magnesium supplements - Increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids
- Increased intake of vitamin D (through daily sun exposure or supplements)
- St. John's wort
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Perimenopause - Menopause
You might be suffering from climacteric syndrome and not even know it – probably because you call it something else.
Here are some of the symptoms that characterize this syndrome:
Irritability
Depression and anxiety
High cholesterol
Chronic headaches
Hot flashes
That last item gave it away.
Symptoms of menopause are the symptoms that comprise climacteric syndrome. But typically, these symptoms begin gradually, ushering in perimenopause, the transitional stage that precedes menopause. Call this time of life what you like – perimenopause, menopause, the climacteric – it all adds up to the same thing: You need relief and you want it to be safe and free of synthetic hormone replacement therapy.
Maybe a little pine bark extract can help. Steady improvement-Pycnogenol has been featured in several e-Alerts over the years – primarily for its ability to help manage cholesterol levels. This extract, taken from the inner bark of pine trees that grow in a French maritime forest, has also been shown to reduce menstrual pain and calm hyperactivity, so a team of researchers at Ham-Min Hospital in Taiwan designed a study to investigate the effects of Pycnogenol in relieving symptoms of climacteric syndrome (CS). Researchers recruited more than 150 women who were diagnosed with perimenopause. In each subject, status of depression/anxiety, dilation and constriction of blood vessels, memory, sleep habits, sexual activity, menstrual activity, etc., were assessed with the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ). Then the women were divided into two groups to receive either 200 mg of Pycnogenol daily, or a placebo. During the six-month intervention, each subject was checked three different times to assess blood pressure, antioxidant and cholesterol levels, and body mass index measurements.
RESULTS:
After just one month, subjects in the Pycnogenol group reported improvement in symptoms
Antioxidant levels were boosted, compared to placebo
Overall, every WHQ symptom improved in the Pycnogenol group but not in the placebo group
LDL cholesterol dropped by 10 percent overall in the Pycnogenol group
In addition, LDL/HDL ratio was improved in the Pycnogenol group, but not in the placebo group
No side effects were reported -Bonus benefit - Pycnogenol contains a powerful antioxidant and a variety of polyphenols with anti- inflammatory properties that have been shown to benefit the cardiovascular system by promoting proper blood flow. But as I noted in the e-Alert "Slow Sugar" (3/22/07), Pycnogenol may provide another significant benefit for menopausal women: improved blood sugar control.
In a trial that included nearly 80 subjects with type 2 diabetes, half received 100 mg of Pycnogenol daily and half received a placebo. After 12 weeks, subjects in the Pycnogenol group significantly lowered their plasma glucose levels compared to placebo. Pycnogenol subjects were also found to have improved artery function.
In a trial of 30 type 2 diabetics, researchers gave subjects Pycnogenol doses of 50, 100, 200, and 300 mg each day in three-week intervals. Subjects who received 100 to 300 mg of Pycnogenol significantly lowered their fasting glucose levels. About five years ago, William Campbell Douglass, II, M.D., told readers of his Daily Dose e-letter that Pycnogenol might compete with aspirin as the "wonder drug" of the 21st Century. But there's one important thing that Pycnogenol doesn't do: It doesn't promote gastrointestinal bleeding.
You can find more information about Pycnogenol – including links to additional research – at pycnogenol.com. You can't purchase Pycnogenol through that site, but links to several vendors are provided. If you have menopausal symptoms, type 2 diabetes, or are at high risk of heart disease, talk to your doctor or health care professional before taking Pycnogenol.
Here are some of the symptoms that characterize this syndrome:
Irritability
Depression and anxiety
High cholesterol
Chronic headaches
Hot flashes
That last item gave it away.
Symptoms of menopause are the symptoms that comprise climacteric syndrome. But typically, these symptoms begin gradually, ushering in perimenopause, the transitional stage that precedes menopause. Call this time of life what you like – perimenopause, menopause, the climacteric – it all adds up to the same thing: You need relief and you want it to be safe and free of synthetic hormone replacement therapy.
Maybe a little pine bark extract can help. Steady improvement-Pycnogenol has been featured in several e-Alerts over the years – primarily for its ability to help manage cholesterol levels. This extract, taken from the inner bark of pine trees that grow in a French maritime forest, has also been shown to reduce menstrual pain and calm hyperactivity, so a team of researchers at Ham-Min Hospital in Taiwan designed a study to investigate the effects of Pycnogenol in relieving symptoms of climacteric syndrome (CS). Researchers recruited more than 150 women who were diagnosed with perimenopause. In each subject, status of depression/anxiety, dilation and constriction of blood vessels, memory, sleep habits, sexual activity, menstrual activity, etc., were assessed with the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ). Then the women were divided into two groups to receive either 200 mg of Pycnogenol daily, or a placebo. During the six-month intervention, each subject was checked three different times to assess blood pressure, antioxidant and cholesterol levels, and body mass index measurements.
RESULTS:
After just one month, subjects in the Pycnogenol group reported improvement in symptoms
Antioxidant levels were boosted, compared to placebo
Overall, every WHQ symptom improved in the Pycnogenol group but not in the placebo group
LDL cholesterol dropped by 10 percent overall in the Pycnogenol group
In addition, LDL/HDL ratio was improved in the Pycnogenol group, but not in the placebo group
No side effects were reported -Bonus benefit - Pycnogenol contains a powerful antioxidant and a variety of polyphenols with anti- inflammatory properties that have been shown to benefit the cardiovascular system by promoting proper blood flow. But as I noted in the e-Alert "Slow Sugar" (3/22/07), Pycnogenol may provide another significant benefit for menopausal women: improved blood sugar control.
In a trial that included nearly 80 subjects with type 2 diabetes, half received 100 mg of Pycnogenol daily and half received a placebo. After 12 weeks, subjects in the Pycnogenol group significantly lowered their plasma glucose levels compared to placebo. Pycnogenol subjects were also found to have improved artery function.
In a trial of 30 type 2 diabetics, researchers gave subjects Pycnogenol doses of 50, 100, 200, and 300 mg each day in three-week intervals. Subjects who received 100 to 300 mg of Pycnogenol significantly lowered their fasting glucose levels. About five years ago, William Campbell Douglass, II, M.D., told readers of his Daily Dose e-letter that Pycnogenol might compete with aspirin as the "wonder drug" of the 21st Century. But there's one important thing that Pycnogenol doesn't do: It doesn't promote gastrointestinal bleeding.
You can find more information about Pycnogenol – including links to additional research – at pycnogenol.com. You can't purchase Pycnogenol through that site, but links to several vendors are provided. If you have menopausal symptoms, type 2 diabetes, or are at high risk of heart disease, talk to your doctor or health care professional before taking Pycnogenol.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Fatty Acid Tied to Depression and Inflammation
Last Updated: 2007-04-17 11:50:28 -0400 (Reuters Health)
By Anne Harding
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The imbalance of fatty acids in the typical American diet could be associated with the sharp increase in heart disease and depression seen over the past century, a new study suggests.
Specifically, the more omega-6 fatty acids people had in their blood compared with omega-3 fatty acid levels, the more likely they were to suffer from symptoms of depression and have higher blood levels of inflammation-promoting compounds, report Dr. Janice K. Kiecolt-Glaser and her colleagues from Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus. These compounds, which include tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6, are "all-purpose 'nasties' for aging," and have been tied to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and other ailments, Kiecolt-Glaser told Reuters Health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as fish, flax seed oil and walnuts, while omega-6 fatty acids are found in refined vegetable oils used to make everything from margarine to baked goods and snack foods. The amount of omega-6 fatty acids in the Western diet increased sharply once refined vegetable oils became part of the average diet in the early 20th century.
Hunter-gatherers consumed two or three times as much omega-6 as omega-3, Kiecolt-Glaser's team notes in their study, published in Psychosomatic Medicine, but today Westerners consume 15- to 17-times more omega-6 than omega-3.
The researchers investigated the relationship among fatty acid consumption, depression and inflammation in 43 older men and women. The 6 individuals diagnosed with major depression had nearly 18 times as much omega-6 as omega-3 in their blood, compared with about 13 times as much for subjects who didn't meet the criteria for major depression. Depressed patients also had higher levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, and other inflammatory compounds. And as levels of depressive symptoms rose, so did the omega 6 and omega 3 ratio.
The effects of depression and diet enhanced each other, the researchers found. "It was more than additive," Kiecolt-Glaser said. "People who had few depressive symptoms and/or a good diet were generally fine." However, when depressive symptoms increased and diets become worse, "we really saw big differences."
Depression alone is known to increase inflammation, the researchers note in their report, while a number of studies have found omega-3 supplements prevent depression.
Following recommendations for a healthy diet -- and eating fatty fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines every now and then -- could go a long way to promote a healthier omega-6/omega 3 balance, Kiecolt-Glaser said. "If people actually had more fruits and vegetables in their diet, they probably would have less omega-6."
SOURCE: Psychosomatic Medicine, online March 30, 2007.
By Anne Harding
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The imbalance of fatty acids in the typical American diet could be associated with the sharp increase in heart disease and depression seen over the past century, a new study suggests.
Specifically, the more omega-6 fatty acids people had in their blood compared with omega-3 fatty acid levels, the more likely they were to suffer from symptoms of depression and have higher blood levels of inflammation-promoting compounds, report Dr. Janice K. Kiecolt-Glaser and her colleagues from Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus. These compounds, which include tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6, are "all-purpose 'nasties' for aging," and have been tied to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis and other ailments, Kiecolt-Glaser told Reuters Health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as fish, flax seed oil and walnuts, while omega-6 fatty acids are found in refined vegetable oils used to make everything from margarine to baked goods and snack foods. The amount of omega-6 fatty acids in the Western diet increased sharply once refined vegetable oils became part of the average diet in the early 20th century.
Hunter-gatherers consumed two or three times as much omega-6 as omega-3, Kiecolt-Glaser's team notes in their study, published in Psychosomatic Medicine, but today Westerners consume 15- to 17-times more omega-6 than omega-3.
The researchers investigated the relationship among fatty acid consumption, depression and inflammation in 43 older men and women. The 6 individuals diagnosed with major depression had nearly 18 times as much omega-6 as omega-3 in their blood, compared with about 13 times as much for subjects who didn't meet the criteria for major depression. Depressed patients also had higher levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, and other inflammatory compounds. And as levels of depressive symptoms rose, so did the omega 6 and omega 3 ratio.
The effects of depression and diet enhanced each other, the researchers found. "It was more than additive," Kiecolt-Glaser said. "People who had few depressive symptoms and/or a good diet were generally fine." However, when depressive symptoms increased and diets become worse, "we really saw big differences."
Depression alone is known to increase inflammation, the researchers note in their report, while a number of studies have found omega-3 supplements prevent depression.
Following recommendations for a healthy diet -- and eating fatty fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines every now and then -- could go a long way to promote a healthier omega-6/omega 3 balance, Kiecolt-Glaser said. "If people actually had more fruits and vegetables in their diet, they probably would have less omega-6."
SOURCE: Psychosomatic Medicine, online March 30, 2007.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Quit Complaining -- It May Make You Feel Worse
Voicing your frustrations is a natural way of dealing with them -- but watch out. Talking your problems to death can make you feel even worse.
A recent study found that teenage girls who vented to each other about their problems, from boy trouble to social slights, were more likely to develop depression and anxiety -- and the same is likely true for adult women, says Amanda Rose, the author of the study.
A recent study found that teenage girls who vented to each other about their problems, from boy trouble to social slights, were more likely to develop depression and anxiety -- and the same is likely true for adult women, says Amanda Rose, the author of the study.
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