Gout and Its Treatment

Gout is an acute type of inflammatory arthritis.  It occurs most often in people who eat a lot of rich foods (meat, gravies, spices and alcohol).  It is caused from a buildup of uric acid in the blood.  Whenever uric acid levels rise beyond a certain point, the kidneys cannot excrete it and it forms uric acid crystals in the joints, which cause intense pain.  These crystals can form in the body organs, as well, and do great damage there also. 

          Gout will typically attack the smaller joints of the hands and feet, usually the big toe.  Gout usually affects men in about 90% of all cases.  Most individuals affected are overweight. 

          Symptoms usually come on suddenly, sometimes in the middle of the night.  You will have extreme pain and swelling of a joint in the fingers or toes.  It can also affect the ankles, knees, hands, elbows and wrists.  Motion or pressure will increase the pain.  After the swelling subsides, the skin may itch and peel.  Whenever you are having an attack you may have loss of appetite, stomach and intestinal problems, fever, and decreased urine output. 

          Some natural remedies that may help include dietetic changes, drinking lots of water, and weight control.  If you suffer from this condition you need to reduce your weight to at least 15% below the calculated normal weight.  Lose this weight gradually, if you go to fast you will increase the intensity of the attacks.  Drink at least 2 quarts of pure water a day.  This helps the body to get rid of the uric acid and minimize the damage to the kidneys.  Vitamin B12 helps the body to distribute water and dilute the uric acid.  B complex helps the body to convert the uric acid into compounds which are harmless to the body.  At the onset of an attack, take 1,000 mg of vitamin C per hour and then slowly lower it to 500-8,000 mg daily.  Take 100 IU of vitamin E and gradually increase it to 500-800 daily.  This helps to reduce uric acid build-up.  Try to balance your diet.  High-carbohydrate diet tends to increase acid excretion, high fat diet will decrease the acid excretion and may bring on an attack.  Particularly eliminate meat and cheese from the diet.  Eat high-potassium foods.  Make a soup from potato peelings, this is rich in potassium.  Eating cherries is helpful, as is celery extracts.  Turmeric will stimulate the adrenals to release the body's own cortisone, which will reduce inflammation and the pain associated with this painful condition.  Useful herbal teas include yarrow, peppermint, devil's claw, juniper and birch.  These will reduce inflammation and pain.   

             Stop eating all kinds of meat.  Eat whole-grains peas, beans, asparagus, mushrooms cauliflower and spinach only in moderate amounts.   Your diet should consist of fresh raw vegetables.  Stay away from sugary foods such as cakes and pies.  Do not drink any alcoholic beverages.  All kinds of alcohol will increase uric acid production and can cause attacks.  A warm compress with comfrey root or leaves will help with pain.  Just apply for two hours or even overnight.  Avoid cold baths of any kind and do not immerse the affected part of your body in cold water. 

          If you have any questions about the treatment of gout, please contact me. 

Stay Strong!

ACETAMINOPHEN AND LUNG PROBLEMS -COPD

           Up to 24 million Americans show impaired lung function which is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.  Most common is COPD.  COPD is an acronym for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.  COPD is not just one disease, but a group of diseases.  This group of diseases block airflow during exhalation, which makes it increasingly difficult to breathe.  It also includes bronchitis and emphysema.

          Symptoms of COPD include:  a constant cough, can be called a "smokers cough"; shortness of breath while doing normal activities; a lot of mucus production; wheezing; smothering - feeling like you can't breath or even take a deep breath.   

          Research connects acetaminophen use with asthma and COPD as stated in the May, 2005 issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.   "Oxidative stress may increase the risk of asthma, contribute to asthma progression, and decrease lung function," writes Tricia M. McKeever, MD, and colleagues from the University of Nottingham, England.   "Previous research suggests that use of acetaminophen, which is hypothesized to reduce antioxidant capacity in the lung, is associated with an increased risk of asthma."

          Increased use of acetaminophen has been associated with COPD and asthma.  The higher use of the drugs, the higher incidence of these lung diseases.  Acetaminophen will decrease lung function in general, even people who haven't developed these lung diseases.  Daily users have lower lung function than people who have never used this drug. 

          All of the pain relievers on the market cause side effects.  Two aspirin will cause your stomach to bleed for two weeks.  There are no "good" pain relievers.  The herbal world offers some safe alternatives.  They can relieve pain and heal the body at the same time.  Be very careful what you take for anything.  Just because it is sold over the counter does not mean it is safe. 

          If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me.

Dr. Sheila Miles graduated in 2000 and was Board Certified as a Naturopathic Physician by the National Board of Examiners in Integrated/Alternative Medicine and Natural Health Science.  In addition, she earned a Doctorate in Natural Health Science.  She is also certified in Iridology, Manipulation, Hydrotherapy, Acupressure Massage, Nutrition, Homeopathy and Herbal preparations,  Life Coach and NLP practitioner.   

           

Arsenic in Apple Juice - Poisoning our children!

As I was checking my email this morning I stumbled on an online article entitled "Arsenic in Juice:  New Study Prompts Action" and I thought this would make a good blog post.  So here it is.

Lately, whenever I do a hair analysis I am finding that arsenic is showing up in more people.  Therefore, there must be a common source for this exposure.  Is it our drinking water? Bottled water? Juice? This article and their sampling seems to believe so.  Dr. Oz tried to bring this situation to light not too long ago, but he was made fun of  for his report.  Personally, I think he is owed an apology, but anyway. 

In the article online, it states that an advocacy group, Consumers Union, is suggesting that the Food and Drug Administration lower its standard for arsenic levels in juice drinks.  10% of juices tested had arsenic levels greater than the FDA's standard for drinking water and 25% of juices also had lead levels higher than the FDA's bottled water limits.  The article goes on to say that "Although federal standards exist for arsenic and lead levels allowed in bottled and drinking water, there are no limits for fruit juices".  "Analysis showed that people who reported drinking apple or grape juice had, on average, about 20 percent higher levels of total urinary arsenic than those subjects who did not".  Consumer Reports recommends that we reduce the amount of juice we drink.  "A Consumer Reports poll also found that 26 percent of toddlers 2 and younger and 45 percent of children ages 3 to 5  drink seven or more ounces of juice a day"

 We are poisoning our children at an early age!  Since children are smaller, levels of arsenic and lead can build up quicker and cause more side effects than in an adult. 

What are the symptoms of arsenic poisoning?  They begin with headaches, confusion, severe diarrhea and drowsiness.  Of course, symptoms will continue to get worse with more exposure and can develop into convulsions and death.  Usually the lungs, skin, kidneys and liver are affected.  Arsenic can also be related to heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.  Besides contaminated water or food, you can pick up arsenic from copper or lead smelting and wood treatments or application of pesticides.      

            Now, what about the lead?   Symptoms of lead poisoning may be different in adults and children.  Adults usually have headache, abdominal pain, kidney failure, and memory loss.  They may also have weakness, pain, or tingling in the extremities.  Chronic poisoning will produce gastrointestinal, neuromuscular and neurological symptoms.  These include short term memory loss, depression, fatigue, problems with sleeps and anemia.
            Symptoms in children include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, irritability, constipation, and kidney failure.   Slow childhood development of normal behaviors and mental retardation are both common with lead poisoning.
            We seem to have an epidemic of autism, ADHD, and other learning problems.  These problems can be caused from lead and arsenic exposure.    Not only are kids served juices at home, but at school as well. Poisoned at both places.   Doctors prescribe drugs to try to control these problems.  They need to look to the cause and stop this problem at its source.   
            How do I know if I have arsenic or lead metals in my body?  What about my child?  A hair analysis is the best way to find out.  When your body is exposed to these poisons it pulls them out of the bloodstream and deposits them in the tissues.  A hair analysis is a tissue sample.  Therefore, a blood test will not show the amounts in your body.  Arsenic and lead can be removed from your body with chelation.  Certain minerals will bind with the arsenic and lead and pull it out of your body.   
            One way to minimize your exposure is to buy a reverse osmosis water filter.  This will convert your drinking water to the purest form or water on the planet.  You can buy one at the local home improvement store for about $150.00.  The filters will cost about $100. to replace but you only have to replace them once or twice a year.  This filter will pay for itself shortly, especially if you are buying all of your water.  Unlike bottled water, all of the heavy metals are removed, so you can be sure you are not getting any arsenic or lead, or other poisons for that matter.  
            Here is the link for the article I referenced above if you would like to read the entire article. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/11/30/us-arsenic-juice-idUSTRE7AT23120111130

Stay Strong!

The Importance of a Detox

Every day we are bombarded with toxins.  We live in a very toxic world.  Our filtering systems, kidneys, liver and blood, are overworked.  Illnesses such as asthma, lupus, headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, fatigue, fibromyalgia, psoriasis, cancer, insomnia, and memory loss are directly linked to toxins in our bodies. 

Our food is full of pesticides, antibiotics, steroids and chemicals.  Our water supply is full of who knows what.  We absorb this into our system every time we wash our hands or take a shower.  Prescription drugs and over the counter medications are so toxic they often do more harm than good.  We keep our outer body clean but what about our inner body.  How long has it been since you cleaned your inner body?  If your answer is never, you might want to consider a detox.  Most people think that the body cleans itself and doesn't need any additional help, but that is not true.  Maybe in the 1800's that idea worked but now we are just faced with too much.  The detoxication process in your body takes energy to work.  This energy could be used elsewhere.  When your system is overloaded with toxins and working overtime, other parts of your body will suffer.  These toxins aren't just waiting to be eliminated, they are causing disease.  The faster you can get these toxins moving out of your body the better.

There are several ways to detox.  You can target your liver, colon, gallbladder, kidneys, blood, or a whole body cleanse.  If you do nothing else, please consider a colon cleanse.  You would be surprised how much that alone can help you to become healthier.  Our bodies are packed together much like an engine in our car.  There is no extra room inside.  If our colon gets packed and swells, even just a little, it can cause pressure on all of our organs, which in turn will cause all kinds of health issues.  I have known people whose colon was so backed up they would vomit bile.  Definitely time for a cleanse.  People have lost large amounts of weight simply because they cleaned themselves out.  They are literally "full of poop".  98% of the time colon cancer can be "cured" with a good colon cleanse.  Cancer will develop from toxins just "hanging out" in your colon. 

Ideally you should have a bowel movement after each meal.  In my practice I have seen people who go about once a month.  This is NOT natural and definitely not healthy.   If this describes you, don't wait --- detox NOW. 

Contact me and we can work out a plan for you.  You can do these over a weekend.  You won't have to take off from work.  The sooner you detox the sooner you can be enjoying great health.

Stay Strong! 

Cold and Flu Season

With the coming of cold weather and schools in session, we all start to be concerned about cold and flu season.  "Get your flu shot" signs are everywhere.  I personally think that the flu shot has way too many side effects and no one in my family will get one.  You may think that you have no other options but actually you have several, not just for the flu but for all other infections as well. 

          The microbes that can make you sick are:  viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic. 

          Viruses are the most abundant type of organism.  They will cause infections ranging from a common cold to certain types of cancer.  Modern medicine has no treatments for viruses, just treat the symptoms ---  natural medicine does.

          Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics.  There are approximately ten times the number of bacteria in the body as there are human cells.  These bacteria are located in the gut and on the skin.  Not all of these bacteria are bad.  We have good bacteria in the GI system.  Whenever we take antibiotics we kill this good bacteria as well as the bad bacteria.  This leaves us open for more infections.  Once again natural medicine to the rescue.

          Funguses - they include yeasts and molds.  They tend to behave more like parasitic infections in the body.  People with poor immune systems are more susceptible to opportunistic fungal infections. 

          Parasites - these can cause infection within the body and also on the surface of the body.  Symptoms include gastrointestinal distress, joint aches and pains, chronic fatigue, excessive hunger and problems with the immune system. 

          Building up the immune system - do you seem to catch everything that is going around?  Maybe you need something to strengthen your immune system. 

          All of the above can be taken care of with simple natural remedies.  These work with your body - not against it.  They will nourish the body, not harm it. 

          Call me today at 270-524-0305 or 270-774-1734 for your flu remedy.  Have it ready before you catch the flu.  Also available is a very effective viral infection formula, remedies for fungal and parasitic infections, and remedies for building a strong immune system.  It doesn't hurt to keep these in your medicine cabinet.

Stay Strong!

I CAN'T LOSE WEIGHT AND I AM TIRED ALL THE TIME - HELP!!!

I had such an over whelming response to my blog post on Adrenal Glands, I decided to do a "part 2" to the post. So here goes…..

So many of my clients complain that they have picked up weight and are unable to lose it or they say "I stay so tired all the time."  These are two statements that lead me to check the adrenals and the thyroid.  Namely the adrenals.  Hormones secreted by the adrenals powerfully effect metabolism, which has an impact on your body weight.  These hormones regulate the way your body responds to daily stress and how you generate energy.  The three main hormones released by the adrenals are cortisol, aldosterone and adrenaline.  If the adrenals secrete either too much or too little it will interfere with your ability to process nutrients, circulation of fluids, protection from infections and your reaction to stress.  When you are under stress the hormone cortisol will cause the liver to release glycogen (glucose) and give you a boost of energy (fight or flight).  Daily stress will cause your body to release more cortisol than you need and the excess is converted into fat, usually stored in the belly area.  If cortisol is circulating constantly in the body, (daily stressful situations) you will crave high calorie foods such as fats and sugars.  These contribute to weight gain.  Fatigue from this constant bombardment will make it hard to establish a fitness program or just eat healthy. 

If you have adrenal fatigue you must change the way you eat.  First of all, never allow yourself to get too hungry. In an effort to keep your energy levels up and your body functioning normally, your adrenals will release more cortisol (remember excess cortisol converts to fat). So getting too hungry will cause you to gain weight.  You should eat three meals and two to three well-timed snacks during the day.  This will help to balance your blood sugar and help the adrenal burden.   When you eat will make a difference because cortisol has a natural cycle.  It usually reaches its peak around 8:00 a.m. and gradually decreases throughout the day.  Remember the old saying "Eat like a king in the morning and like a pauper at night".  Eat breakfast around 8:00, lunch around 11:00 -12:00, a snack around 2:00-3:00 and dinner around 5:00 - 6:00 in the evening and make it the lightest meal of the day.  Now, consider what you eat - when you are under stress you tend to reach for a "burst of energy" - sugar and caffeine.  After the "burst" from these foods you bomb out even lower than you started and you feel worse.  Caffeine and gluten  (wheat) are very hard on the adrenals.  If you have adrenal fatigue you should consider a gluten-free diet and limit caffeine.  If you crave caffeine, your body may be calling for rest (I know that sounds crazy). Take a break and try a ten or fifteen minute walk.  This is a great stress reliever.  If you must have that morning cup of coffee, make sure you eat a nutritious meal and put the cream in your coffee to dull the effects of caffeine. 

Eat fresh whole food, preferably organic.  Include protein in all your meals and snacks, these help to stabilize blood sugar and help you with caffeine and sugar craving. 

Women with adrenal problems will often crave salt.  If you feel lightheaded when standing up quickly or getting out of a bath or hot tub, this can be a sign of low blood pressure, which is often a symptom of adrenal fatigue.  You may find that salt in your diet can be helpful.  The adrenals also work with the sodium/water balance and fluid retention.  You may need salt.  I know this sounds strange coming from me but adrenal fatigue can change all the rules. Actually salt cravings are a result of low aldosterone.  This hormone regulates blood pressure.  When cortisol levels go up, your aldosterone goes down, which lowers blood pressure.  This can disturb electrolyte balance and cell hydration.  Salt restores these imbalances.    I like Himalayan crystal salt.  It is not as harsh on your blood pressure.

Time your meals and watch what you eat.  Stay away from sugar and caffeine.  Restrict you gluten (wheat) containing foods.  Eat protein at every meal and snack.  Start an exercise routine - even if it is just walking 10 minutes a day.  Just move!!!!! This will help with the weight gain and fatigue. 

Although changing your eating habits will help, you need to take further steps to correct the problem.  I don't agree with just covering up the symptoms - you need to get to the root of the problem. A hair analysis will show which stage of adrenal fatigue you are in.  There are three stages and each stage requires different treatment.  The doctors offer no help because they do not test the adrenals.  They only test the thyroid and that test is not accurate.  They test the circulating T3 (thyroid hormone), but this may not be available for use to the thyroid.  Just testing the circulating hormone does not accurately test the thyroid.  The adrenals and thyroid are under the control of the pituitary gland (master gland) which is under the control of the hypothalamus. Either of these may need treatment also. Once again, this is where a hair analysis comes it.  It can pinpoint exactly where the problem is.  Call me today for an appointment and start on a wellness journey. 

Stay Strong!

http://www.choosing-natural-health.com/

Neuropsychological Problems - Part 1

Do you know someone who is suffering from anxiety, bi-polar, ADHD, depression, dementia, or even more serious behaviors such as schizophrenia?  These behaviors could be caused by imbalances in minerals or heavy metal exposure.  Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are common in our environment and exposure is quite common.  These metals can cause emotional changes and neurological impairment. 

LEAD.  In adults lead toxicity can cause fatigue, anorexia, irritability, abdominal pain and muscle weakness.  Long-term exposure works with your memory.  Children with chronic exposure have learning disabilities, hyperactivity, distractibility and motor coordination.  Even just a small amount of lead can change an I.Q. score.   If you know of a child who suffers from ADHD or ADD, it is very important to get them tested for lead.  I have found that this is a very common culprit and you can see remarkable recovery in these children.

 

MERCURY.  Ever hear of the "mad hatter".  Workers in the hat industry were exposed to mercury and developed tremors, thus the name "mad hatter."  Actually, George Washington was accidentally killed by a well-intentioned doctor.  Treating with mercury was very common in George's day as was bloodletting.  George had developed a sore throat and after a couple of rounds of blood letting combined with mercury, he died.

 

Other signs of mercury toxicity include, weakness, irritability, headaches, rashes, slurred speech and pain in the extremities.  In infants mercury toxicity can include cerebral palsy syndromes and mental retardation.    Mercury can also mimic the symptoms of MS.  If you receive that diagnosis from your doctor, I would recommend a hair analysis to make sure it isn't caused from mercury toxicity.  If it is mercury you can take the steps to remove it from your system, thus removing the symptoms of MS. 

CADMIUM.  This metal is a neurotoxin and will damage the nervous system.  It also concentrates in the kidneys and heart, causing damage to the organs.  Behavioral abnormalities are very common with toxicity from this metal. Some sources of cadmium include cigarette smoke, car exhaust, and our water system.

ALUMINUM.  Aluminum is the one metal associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.  Don't wait until your doctor tells you that you have dementia to reduce your exposure to this metal.  Start now!  This is probably the most common metal we are exposed to.  It is in deodorants, our cooking utensils, our canned vegetables, soda cans and even the wrap we use to cover our food.  Be very careful with how you cook if you still use any aluminum pots and pans.  You should really consider changing to cast iron or glass. They are much healthier for you. 

These are not the only metals we need to be concerned with, there are others in the environment and our bodies fight with these on a daily basis.  Once you are exposed to these metals they never leave your system unless you take steps to remove them.  You could have even picked them up from your mother while in the womb.  Your body has a protective device whereas whenever it detects a metal it pulls it out of the blood stream and deposits it into the tissues.  If you doctor does a blood test you might not show a metal toxicity.  Since your hair is a tissue, a hair analysis is the ideal medium to test for these metals.  Hair analysis has been used for heavy metal testing for years and has proven very reliable.  With this test you can tell if your exposure is acute or is chronic.       

Watch for part 2 of this article and we will explore the nutritional minerals and their effects on behaviors. 

Stay Strong!

Adrenal Glands

In my practice, I do hair analysis.  This is a great tool, which takes a comprehensive picture of your body.  I have done these since 2000.  The majority of the people I have tested have shown adrenal fatigue.  Always the first question is what do my adrenal glands do.  Let's take a look at our adrenals. 

The adrenal glands are small glands, which are located on the top of your kidneys.  Each one is about 3 inches wide and about ½ inch tall. These glands consist of three different regions.  Each of these regions produce different hormones.  All of these hormones are considered steroids.  When these hormones are not produced sufficiently, you have what is known as adrenal fatigue.  Some of the symptoms include:  excessive fatigue and exhaustion, craving for salty and sweet foods, sleep that doesn't refresh (you get sleep, but wake up tired), insomnia, unable to cope with stress, difficulty concentrating or brain fog, poor digestion, sensitivity to cold, allergies, low or high blood pressure, you may feel more energetic in the evening, low immune function, and slow recovery from illness or stress, muscle loss, belly fat, water retention, reduced sex drive, and being unable to remember things, and constipation.

The hormones that the adrenals produce help to balance your blood sugar, which controls your energy.  Each time your blood sugar drops, the adrenals will release hormones and cause the blood sugar to rise which increases energy.  They also release hormones when you are under stress. All of this puts a toll on the adrenals and they stop or slow down the production of sufficient hormones. 

Doctors won't test adrenals because they can only diagnose extreme dysfunction where the adrenals completely shut down, which is potentially fatal.  This is where a hair analysis comes in.  It will show exactly how the adrenals are working. 

If your adrenal glands are exhausted all the rules of weight loss are reversed.  Calorie restriction and exercise will make you fatter. Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenals when you are under stress.  This hormone is not your friend.  It acts as a fat storing, muscle destroying, skin wrinkling and age-accelerating enemy.  Not only that but it causes you to retain fluid, making you feel even fatter. 

Your body needs water and the amount that you retain is determined by the balance of sodium and potassium. Water follows sodium and if there is too much sodium in the body you will retain fluid.  An imbalance between sodium and potassium determines whether there is the right amount of sodium.  If there is not enough potassium relative to sodium then you will retain water.  Cortisol will inhibit sodium loss, thereby causing fluid retention.  Cortisol will cause excretion of potassium, thereby increasing the sodium.  Cortisol is also an anti-diuretic.  You have always heard that the more you drink, the more you flush out your body, but not true with your cortisol levels.  The more you drink the more you retain.

Cortisol will also cause the loss of magnesium, which will cause cardiac arrhythmias.

The areas of your body that have the greatest amount of cortisol receptors are your midsection, face, and upper back - let me guess - this is where most of your fat is accumulating.

As your adrenal glands progress to burnout, you feel dead.  If you move around much you feel totally exhausted.  Your heart races and you are out of breath with just simple walking.  You may not be getting fatter at this point but you are losing muscle.   

What can I do, you might ask?  First of all, you can add several vitamins to your daily routine, but most important you need a test, such as a hair analysis to see what stage your body is in.  There are three stages of adrenal fatigue and each stage is treated differently.  Call me for your appointment today and we will take it from there. 

Stay Strong!

Build Your Bones

As we age we all have growing concern over bone strength and reducing our chances of osteoporosis. It is normal for us to lose some bone mass as we age but we can slow its progression.  You see all the ad campaigns to drink milk.  Actually milk is a poor source for calcium, but herbs and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources.  Some common herbs that can inhibit the breakdown of bone include sage, rosemary and thyme.  In addition to herbs, you need to exercise regularly and eat a diet rich in vegetables, including onions.

Here is a recipe for a bone building tea. 

 Boil 1 quart water

 Oatstraw
 Nettle leaf
 Dandelion leaf
 Raspberry leaf
 Red clover flowering tops
 Horsetail shoots

Blend your herbs in equal parts and add approximately 4 tablespoons of the herb blend to the water.   Cover and steep for at least 30 minutes and then strain.  You should drink 3 to 4 cups of this a day.  

Stay Strong!
 

ENERGY DRINKS

          What is really in these drinks? What am I doing to my body whenever I pop the top?  Lets look at the ingredients - most are sugar, B vitamins, and caffeine, some have some exotic sounding ingredients, some have some herbal ingredients and some have amino acids.  But do they really give you energy?

          Taurine is a popular ingredient.  It is an amino acid.  It is essential for cardiovascular function, development of skeletal muscle, it also works in the central nervous system and the retina of the eye.  It has not been proven to be energy giving.  It works as a neurotransmitter in the brain and may work more as a sedative than a stimulant.  Instead of giving you wings - they may be clipped!

          Guarana has the same characteristics as caffeine. In testing with rats, guarana did show increased memory retention and better physical endurance.  People with high blood pressure or heart problems should avoid this.  The same is true with caffeine.  Both are stimulants.  You can overdose on both and you can get addicted to both.

          Ginseng is another common ingredient in energy drinks.  Briefly, ginseng is an adaptogen herb.  This means that basically, whenever you ingest ginseng it knows if you are male or female and can adapt to whatever you need.  Ginseng builds strength, gives energy and calms the body.  Usually in energy drinks the dosage is so small that it does not have any measurable medicinal effects. 

          B vitamins in mega doses are added to energy drinks such as 5-hour energy.  Although these vitamins are water soluble, which means simply what you don't use, you lose.  If you do not drink large amounts of water to dilute this mega dose, it can make you sick and you can overdose.  No one bothers to tell you that.  So a lot of people end up with a sick stomach after one of these or worse.

          Next we have sugar and caffeine.  Enough has been said about both, so I am not going to add anything here. 

          My verdict is avoid these high calorie drinks.  You are probably already consuming too much sugar.  If you need a caffeine boost, try unsweetened tea or unsweetened coffee. If you must have a sweetener, please do not use any artificial sweeteners, they are poison.  Use Stevia, which is an herb that is naturally sweet and will not cause you any problems.   These are much better choices.  They will give you an energy boost and not cause problems for your waistline. 

Stay Strong!

Lyme Disease

This is a very scary video, but we all should be aware of the dangers of Lyme disease. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ALgOikmjCw

Vitamin D, Vitamin K and Your Heart

          If I had to guess, I would say that you are deficient in vitamin K and Vitamin D.  Almost everyone is.  These are extremely important to have in your diet.  They both provide so many health benefits. 

          One of Vitamin K's main benefits is blood clotting, but did you know that it has many other benefits, such as heart health.  It can reduce coronary calcification, which will decrease your risk of heart disease.

          There are two forms of Vitamin K - K1 and K2.  K1 is found in green leafy vegetables and helps you maintain your blood clotting ability.  K2 is found in fermented foods, especially cheese.  This form of K2 will go straight to your bones, tissues and blood vessels.   K2 is probably the most important form for your heart health.

          Vitamin D helps you to absorb calcium and K2 directs it to your bones.  If the calcium is not properly directed it can go to your arteries (causing hardening of the arteries), to your kidneys (kidney stones), to your gallbladder (gall stones), or somewhere else it is not needed.    Without K2 the calcium that you absorb can very easily be working against you.  Going to work in your arteries and not your bones.  If you are going to supplement Vitamin D, you MUST also supplement Vitamin K2.  Never take calcium in isolation.  In order for it to be directed to your bones, you need other nutrients.

          Vitamin K also offers other benefits such as fighting cancer and lowering your risk of diabetes.  It can also help prevent varicose veins. 

          Where do I get this Vitamin?   Vitamin K1 is abundant in dark green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, kale and spinach.  K2 is available in cheese  and especially cheese curd.  You would probably need about 150 mcg daily.

No Cook Tomato Sauce

In this heat who wants to cook --- so try a no cook sauce. 

This sauce can be used in a variety of ways.  You might try it as a bruschetta*topping, serve over grilled chicken or fish or just simply toss it with pasta.  Tastes better if you make it early in the day and let it set for an hour or two.  The flavors have time to blend if it sets.  This recipe will make 3 ½ cups. 

1 pound chopped tomatoes

½ cup chopped onion

½ cup olives

¼ cup chopped marjoram leaves

½ cup chopped parsley sprigs

2 tbls balsamic vinegar

½ tsp black pepper

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and allow to set for up to 2 hours.  You may add salt to taste.

  

*Bruschetta

Slice a loaf of French bread diagonally into ½ inch slices and discard the ends.  Brush with olive oil and bake at 375 for 5 - 6 minutes or until lightly browned. 

Not only is this a very good sauce but it has a lot of health benefits as well.  Give it a try!

Stay Strong!

PLEASE READ THIS - SPECIAL SALE

You are invited to learn about

"Herbs and Supplements for the Cardiovascular System."

This presentation will be given by Dr. Sheila Miles

 on July 23, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. cst.  

Whispering Hills Herbs

2207 Macon Kessinger Road,

Munfordville, Kentucky  42765,

 270-524-0305(home)  or 270-774-1734.

If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or any kind of cardiovascular problems you need to attend.  Learn the causes of these problems and what you can do to prevent or correct them.  The cost of this presentation is $5.00.  Please RSVP.   

Specials for July 23, 2011

Come early and get an IONIC FOOT DETOX for only $10.00 (regularly $25.)!

HAIR ANALYSIS on sale for $75. (Regularly $90)

BIOTICS supplements on sale - 10%, 50% and even 75% off

ZYTO BALANCE WELLNESS SCAN - Free with any purchase.  This is amazing - you really need to try it out!  It will tell you how all your organs are functioning and exactly which, if any, supplements you need to correct any problem.  All this is done in a matter of minutes.  42 different scans are available. 

With a $50 purchase you will receive a coupon for a 50% discount on a COMPUTERIZED IRIDOLOGY EXAM.     

In 2000 Dr. Miles was Board Certified as a Naturopathic Physician by the National Board of Examiners in Integrated/Alternative Medicine and Natural Health Science. In addition, she earned a Doctorate in Natural Health Science. Dr. Miles is certified in Iridology, Manipulation, Hydrotherapy, Acupressure Massage, Nutrition, Homeopathy, and Herbal Preparations.  2011 certified as a Life Coach. 

My books

I have written two books.  One is only available from me personally (for now) and the other is available for sale at this website.  This is not my website but belongs to a friend of mine and really contains some good information.  Please check it out and if you would like, you can purchase my book online.  It is all about how to live healthy. 

http://www.choosing-natural-health.com/

Enzymes

Did you ever think about enzymes?  You know after you exercise and you have all that muscle soreness - enzymes to the rescue.  They can be highly effective for inflammation.  They also work with digestion.  A banana has all the digestive enzymes necessary for your food digestion, but I don't think you want to eat a banana at every meal. Once again - enzymes to the rescue. 

Enzymes work in so many areas of the body, they help you metabolize protein, help you to produce hormones, support your immune system and also help us to have a healthy circulatory system.  They also have the ability to break down mucous secretions, so you should definitely take them whenever you are having sinus problems or have a cold.  Much, much healthier than "drugs."  See me this week for a special on "Intenzyme Forte" by Biotics.  It is a very effective source of both plant and animal based enzymes.   

The Most Dangerous Substance on Earth - Bet you just had some!!!

Did you just finish that Diet Coke? Guess what you just consumed - one of the most dangerous substances on Earth - aspartame. Better known as NutraSweet or Equal.  This toxic substance was discovered by accident in 1965.  It was approved for dry goods in 1981 and for carbonated drinks in 1983. 

Over 75 percent of adverse reactions to food additives are attributed to aspartame. Many of which are very serious including death.  Some documented symptoms include:  headaches/migraines, dizziness, seizures, slurred speech, joint pain, weight gain, depression, numbness, nausea, vision problems, tachycardia, insomnia, hearing loss, heart palpitations, breathing difficulties, anxiety attacks, memory loss, tinnitus, and fatigue (by blocking sufficient glucose entry into the brain).  

Aspartic acid (40%), phenylalanine (50%) and methanol  (10%), are three chemicals which make up aspartame.  

 The aspartic acid is an amino acid but will raise blood levels of aspartate and glutamate (the ingredient in MSG)  the aspartate acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain.  Too much of this will kill certain neurons and trigger an excessive amount of free radicals which will kill the cells.   Normally the blood brain barrier protects the brain from excess asparate, glutamate and other toxins, but during childhood it is not fully developed, it may be damaged by other medical conditions and may even allow seepage of the excess aspartate anyway, and it may not protect all ares of the brain.   When these neurons are destroyed, chronic illnesses such as MS, hormonal problems, hypoglycemia, dementia, AIDS and Parkinson's disease may develop.  

Phenylalanine is also an amino acid.  If you have a genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) you cannot metabolize phenylalanine and it can reach dangerously high levels in the brain and may even cause death. Even in persons without this condition  levels can still be raised beyond normal in the brain and blood.  These can cause emotional disorders - anxiety attacks, depression, mood swings etc.

 

Methanol or wood alcohol is a poison.  Whenever methanol is heated it becomes free methanol and the absorption rate is raised considerably.  This will occur whenever a product containing aspartame is improperly stored or heated in a food such as Jello.  It only has to be heated to 86 degrees.  The methanol breaks down into formaldehyde and formic acid in the body.  I don't have to tell you what a poison formaldehyde is!  Its effects are cumulative in the body.  The EPA recommend a limit of 7.8 mg/day.  A one liter soda contains approximately 56 mg.  Methanol poisoning will produce headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, weakness, dizziness, chills, memory lapses and a lot of other symptoms.

I could go on and on with the dangers of aspartame, just "google" a search and you will find more information than you will want to read. Please stay away from the chemical poisons!!! Splenda is no better and maybe even more dangerous.   Your best bet is plain old   sugar  - it is by no means as dangerous as this stuff.  Try the  herb Stevia. Stevia is much sweeter than sugar and you use a lot less. Much, much healthier for you.    The jury is still out on Truvia.  

Stay Strong!!

Lavender lemonade

Want something different?  Try Lavender Lemonade. 
Just add  lavender  to your pitcher of lemonade.  For the most flavor dissolve your sugar (about 1 ¾ cups)  in heated water (about 6 cups) , then add the lavender blossoms (3 tablespoons)  and let steep for ½ to 1 hour.  Strain and add your lemon juice (2 ½ cups).  Cool, serve and garnish with lavender sprigs.
Now wasn't that simple and refreshing!!!!!
Stay Strong! 

Amino Acids

Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and they are essential for every chemical reaction and process that occurs in the body.  Their main purpose it to build and repair muscle.  10 of the amino acids are essential and must be acquired from the diet as the body is unable to make them.  There are a total of 21 recognized amino acids.  A deficiency in even one of these essential amino acids will result in serious health problems.  Amino acids are necessary for life itself, but must be in proper balance for metabolic processes.  Some of these processes control neuro-transmitters in the brain (mood).  Amino Acids also supply energy requirements such as glucose regulation.   

Foods from animal sources are usually high in essential amino acids.  Chicken, fish, dairy products, beef, pork, and eggs are examples - these are high in protein and in turn high in amino acids.   Generally any protein source will contain amino acids.  Plant sources such as dried beans, peas, nuts and seeds are good for vegetarian diets.  These will usually lack one or more of the essential amino acids but you can combine these with whole grains which should round it all out. 

Some deficiency systems may include a weak immune system, fatigue, stomach acid/alkaline imbalance, water retention, dizziness, and nausea.  If you feel you are deficient in amino acids give me a call.  I have the liquid form available for $16.00, just a few drops on your tongue and you are "good to go".  If you are playing a lot of sports and need a "boost", I have Amino Sport (180 capsules) for $43.00.  Just give me a call!  

Stay Strong!

Hypothyroidism

 

One of the most under diagnosed health conditions we face today is hypothyroidism or low thyroid function.  It has very common symptoms such as depression, weight gain and lethargy.  The blood tests that your doctor runs to check your thyroid are not always accurate.  They test the circulating hormone, not what your thyroid is actually using.  There are also many aspects of the hormone and the doctor only checks one or two.  Sometimes the problem can be with the adrenals, which are not tested.  Risk for hypothyroidism increases with age.  Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid is the opposite and is much less common.  Its symptoms are nervousness, restlessness and weight loss. 

Your diet can have an impact on your thyroid and if you suspect that you have this condition you may want to look at foods to boost your thyroid.  If you are very health conscious you may be eating all the wrong things for your thyroid.  Foods such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, mustard greens, peaches, pears, radishes contain natural substances which can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones.  It is possible that cooking these foods may inactivate these substances.  Make sure that you cook these foods. 

Get plenty of iodine.  Restricting salt intake has caused an iodine deficiency in the United States.  Iodine will combine with the amino acid tyrosine and produce thyroid hormones.  Fish, dairy, bananas and almonds are good sources of tyrosine. 

Zinc, B vitamins and the antioxidant vitamins all help to improve thyroid function.  Add some extra virgin, cold-pressed olive oil to your diet along with some nuts for your added vitamin E and B.  Dairy, eggs or meat will add zinc and B12.  Whole grains are packed with B vitamins.  Use some culinary herbs such as parsley for your vitamin C and K.  A little bit of parsley will go well with just about anything you cook.  Eat some vegetables that are rich in beta-carotene.  These will be the orange vegetables such as sweet potatoes, winter squash, etc.  Make sure you cook and drink only pure water.  The fluoride they add it our water will reduce thyroid function, cause cancer and numerous other ailments.  My opinion is that it is population control.  (Just an opinion, not fact). 

            Follow these tips and you will see an improvement in your thyroid function.  You don't have to take prescription after prescription to cure what ails you - most of the time the problem is on the end of your fork!

Stay Strong!

           

How to Make Lemongrass Oil.

 

This recipe makes 2 cups of oil.  The oil is great for salad dressings, stir-fry, soups, really just anything you want to use it for.

You will need  the following:

5 swollen lemongrass stems (the pale bottom part of the stalk)
2 cups of light olive oil
2 teaspoons of lemon juice

Remove the outer sheaths from the lemongrass stems and slice the white inner stem very finely.  Pound these stems (use a mortar and pestle) until they are a paste.  Next you add a small bit of oil and mix.  Continue until all the stems are paste, then add the remaining oil and lemon juice and stir well.  Place this mixture in a sealed container and put in the refrigerator.  Make sure you shake well before each use and use within 5 days.
You may also strain it with cheesecloth if you prefer.