A

Androgen Deficiency In Males
ANDROGEN DEFICIENCY IN MALES

Men do not receive routine medical care. Most likely, they will seek attention of a physician only when they are ill. Whether this is because of the male macho image, the philosophy that "if there isn't a problem don't fix it", or that there is no expectation by men that any available treatment will make any difference, most men avoid the medical professional. They sit passively, eat and smoke excessively and occasionally exercise to
extremes. Their mode of thinking, "just for the moment", is counter-productive to good health.

One of the problems is maintaining good health is that all of us after 40 are slowing down physically and hormonally. The medical term is catabolic or "breaking down". Before the 20's most individuals are in an anabolic state, i.e., they are building new body tissue. By 50 years old, we are considered of "advanced age" and experience an increased number of serious illness and disabilities. If only we could reverse the catabolic state and make all aging individuals anabolic again!

AGING IN THE MALES

Why then would society label men's Mid-life Crisis an emotional event? Men have the same symptoms as menopausal women, flushes, sleep disturbance, fatigue, decreased sex drive and performance. And they have the same biochemical changes in hormones: low testosterone and elevated FSH and LH. As part of the history taking for men, and prior to ordering the laboratory tests that follow, we suggest taking the following questionnaire to demonstrate the extent that "male menopause" affects middle-aged men.

Questionnaire
1. Decrease in sex drive
2. Erection less strong
3. Lack of energy
4. Decrease in strength and/or endurance
5. Lost height
6. Decreased "enjoyment of life
7. Sad and/or grumpy                      
8. Deterioration in sports ability
9. Falling asleep after dinner
10. Decreased work performance

MEN with both 1 & 2 and any 4 are candidates for further testing and possible hormone replacement.

For example, a middle-aged man may notice fatigue. He blames this on stress at work or home. With a lack of reserve for completing one's work, he may report a recurrence of lethargy around 3:00 p.m. and another wave of weariness after dinner. Typically, they are restless, have interrupted sleep patterns, poor sexual performance, and exhaustion upon arising in the morning. He may have more bouts of irritability, indecisiveness and loss of confidence. He may even state, "I feel old". Male menopause is a BIG problem.

Since no scientific attention has yet been directed to the effect of diminishing hormones in the aging male, men's health care is already fragmented. Where women have gynecologists who understand their normal hormonal changes, men do not. Doctors and men share a common ignorance, men do not ask and doctors do not treat male menopause.
Interestingly males in Europe have been receiving hormonal replacement with the male hormone testosterone for more than 40 years. The European articles refer to improvement of such symptoms as fatigue, weakness, body fat composition and sex drive after receiving testosterone supplements.  But testosterone replacement in the U.S. is rarely used. Testosterone replacement is done by hormone injections, gels, creams or subcutaneous pellets that last for 2 months, and have had profound effects on the symptoms of male menopause. Testosterone replacement alone is not the complete answer for all male patient's complaints associated with aging. Testosterone on its own does not satisfactorily relieve fatigue. It takes a comprehensive program that measures and replaces all the deficient hormones and could prove beneficial for maintaining and improving the man's physical/emotional health.

Testosterone is the primary hormone of men. It is responsible for a man's beard, muscles, sex drive, energy and self-confidence. Low levels of testosterone are most often associated with lower self-esteem, depression and swings in mood and verbal outbursts. It has been proven that there is some data now that testosterone may actually make people more sociable and improve their sense of well being. Testosterone like most other hormones diminishes with age. With new information becoming available more men and health professionals will recognize that testosterone is necessary for good health. Testosterone may prove to be as life enhancing for men as estrogen for women.
How testosterone works is actually quite easy to understand. Testosterone is a chemical substance that is produced primarily in the testes in the scrotum of man and released into the blood stream to affect every cell in the body. The increase release of testosterone at puberty is responsible for the distinct male body shape, facial hair, muscular development and sex drive. Aging may not be associated with a significant decrease in testosterone levels. Normal range is 400 to 1200 mg/dl. When a man's level is below the 300-400 mg/dl range, he is testosterone deficient and may benefit with testosterone replacement.

Men often function sexually with low testosterone blood levels.  On the average, testosterone levels fall by 2% per year.  More men are found to have low levels in their 50's and 60's. These men often show signs of heart disease, depression, stroke, osteoporosis and increased incidence of cancer.

At our office we are focusing on understanding the physiological effects of testosterone in the aging male.  We have identified a number of medical conditions in which amount of free testosterone is reduced.  In each case, the patient's symptoms and laboratory values are followed while on treatment.



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B

Body Cleanse
Total Body Cleanse

One of the best ways to rid your body of toxins, rest your digestive system, and promote total body cleansing and rejuvenation is to remove digestive irritants from your diet for a full 21-day period while supplementing your diet with nutrient dense foods and herbs that support the organs in your body that take part in the purification process. While this approach requires a strong commitment and willingness to endure temptation and occasional feelings of hunger and weakness, your reward will be a healthier, more energetic and happier you. This positive change will encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Wheat grass, for example, is well recognized for its cleansing properties and for its ability to relieve gastric distress. It is also loaded with vital nutrients. Wheat grass contains vitamins A and B12, a protein content as robust as many meats, digestive enzymes, and depending upon the soil it comes from, can hold as many as 90 plus minerals. Wheat grass is highly concentrated and as little as one ounce will produce a beneficial effect. You may experience a mild reaction to wheat grass (diarrhea, headache, or other symptoms), but these symptoms usually occur only a few times during a purification process, and can be a sign that your detoxification mechanisms are kicking in.

Cleansing and revitalizing your digestive tract

In order to give your digestive system a break and help your body cleanse itself from the inside out, remove the following food items from your diet for a full 21-day period. Not only will this give your body a rest from digestive irritants, but if you choose to reintroduce these foods into your diet later on, you can do so one at a time. You will soon be able to tell if you are sensitive to a particular food by the way that you feel - your body's natural wellness indicator. While on a purification program,  it is important for you to supplement your diet with nutrient dense foods and herbs that support all of the organs in your body that take part in the purification process.

What foods you should stop eating

wheat (only exception, organic sprouted wheat berries)

dairy products

hydrogenated oils

refined sugars

vinegar (except apple cider vinegar)

caffeine (coffee, non-herbal iced tea, etc.)

carbonated beverages

eggs

chicken or red meat (if you eat any meat, eat only wild game or hormone-free lamb)





If you are still hungry, increase your intake of whole food-based supplement shakes**, fresh fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water - at least eight glasses per day. Tip: Squeeze some organic lemon into your water to add flavor and promote re-hydration. To help keep your body consistently focused toward the goal of purification, choose organically grown produce whenever possible.

What foods you can eat

Become a smart shopper. Read labels and make sure you buy only those foods that contain none of the  ingredients mentioned in the list above. For example, when you're choosing a type of bread, make sure there is no wheat or refined sugar listed in the ingredients. Any other type of grain acceptable.  The easiest way to find these kinds of foods and to get a better variety is by shopping at a natural foods store.  Buy:

only distilled, filtered, or spring water

fresh fruits and vegetables - organically grown, if possible

brown, Thai, wild, or basmati rice

rice based foods, for example, rice cakes, crackers, bread made with rice flour, pasta, pancake mix, etc.

non-medicinal herbal or green teas

bottled fruit and vegetable juices, made from organically grown sources

unheated cold-pressed flaxseed oil, hemp seed oil or oil blend that is high in essential fatty acids, & olive oil.

Here are some names of smaller companies well recognized for high-quality organic foods:

Pasta: Eden, Westbrae, DeBoles, Mendocino Pasta Company

Juices: Santa Cruz, Knudsen, Mountain Sun, Tree of Life

Flour: Shiloh Farms, Arrowhead Mills

Oils:   Flora, Spectrum, Barlean's, Omega .                      

Bread: Alvarado, Shiloh Farms, Breads for Life, Garden of Eatin', Food for Life (Ezekiel bread), French Meadow,  Nature's Path

Mental / emotional cleansing

Going through a clinical purification program definitely impacts your physical health, but as an added benefit, it also provides you with the opportunity to "clear out" some of the mental and emotional "stuff" that may be slowing you down. As you place less of a strain on your physical body by mindfully eating nutrient dense foods while supporting your body's natural purification process with key whole food based nutrient complexes, you will likely find that your thoughts are clearer and you are better able to handle stress. This transformation welcomes the opportunity to look at, and release any excess baggage that may be keeping you from feeling optimal health. Take a walk with an old friend and share your thoughts, experiences and feelings with him or her. Keep a journal and write down what
you are feeling.  Talk to a health counselor that you trust. Do whatever you feel comfortable and safe doing that will facilitate your emotional, mental and even spiritual transformation.


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C

CardioSpec
Cardio Bio Spectrum Diagnostic System (CardioSpec) is a unique and sophisticated device for an early diagnosis of coronary artery diseases, particularly the myocardial injury caused by ischemia.

This device is based on the concept that a human heart works like an engine, and the blood circulation and electrical conduction of the heart and blood vessels works as a transmission.  By applying the engineering principles and theories, mathematical formulas and bio-cybernetics technologies, one can evaluate, with high degree sensitivity, specificity and consistency, the cardiac functions of a human being such as myocardial contractility, electrical conductivity and blood fluidity, etc.

CardioSpec has been developed to analyze the myocardial function on a more comprehensive level where the more insight physiological and pathological information can be extracted.  Obviously, this frequency domain cardiac electro-physiology study provides a more significant meaning and higher efficacy than what the conventional EKG can provide.

After twenty years of intensive research and more than fifty thousand clinical tests, a new and complete set of indices for heart diseases diagnosis has been formulated.  The clinical application of this new set of indices through the use of CardioSpec to detect the heart diseases, especially the heart impairment of myocardial function due to coronary insufficiency, has been impressively successful and the device has been recognized by a number of world-renowned cardiologists to be a medical breakthrough in the field of early and non-invasive detection of heart diseases.

CardioSpec is highly efficient in diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) with more than 90% sensitivity and specificity.  Since CardioSpec evaluates the function of the myocardium directly, it can detect any early subtle changes in myocardial function or injuries caused by the obstruction of small coronary arteries which cannot be detected by catheterization or angiography.  It is a new member to the family of the cardiac diagnostic modalities in addition to the catheterization, angiography and the conventional EKG.

The CardioSpec test is as simple to perform as with the conventional EKG.  It gives four main advantages comparing to other devices: (1) early detection of coronary artery disease (CAD), (2) high accuracy, (3) fast and easy to use, and (4) non-invasive.

CardioSpec opens the door to a new era of bio-cybernetics and human engineering in the 21st century, and represents a milestone in the history of human medicine.

Detecting Heart Diseases:

(1) Coronary Artery Diseases; (2) Myocardial Infarction; (3) Left Ventricular Dysfunction; (4) Left Ventricular Hypertrophy; (5) Conduction Abnormalities; (6) Arrhythmia; (7) Pulmonary Heart Disease.


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Cholesterol Information
CHOLESTEROL INFORMATION

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a white crystalline substance found naturally in the body.

What Is Function Of Cholesterol?  

Functions of cholesterol include facilitating cell membrane permeability

It is an essential building material in the body

Important factor for brain function

Stabilization of neurotransmitters

Structural material from which progesterone, testosterone, estrogens, DHEA, and cortisol are made.

Where Does Cholesterol Come From?

Cholesterol is only found in foods from animals (Only animals can synthesize cholesterol)  

We produce our own cholesterol, so even a person who eats no cholesterol can potentially have high blood levels due to their own body's production.

What Is The Difference Between Good And Bad Cholesterol?

Cholesterol needs to be carried in the body through blood.  It does this by combining with proteins to make lipoproteins.  

LDL (low-density lipoproteins) have more cholesterol than protein

LDL, also known as "bad" cholesterol, attaches to cell surfaces in order to transfer the cholesterol needed by the body.  If there is too much, the cells will become saturated with cholesterol that is then deposited in your artery walls.

HDL (high-density lipoproteins) have more protein and less cholesterol

HDL, also known as "good" cholesterol, actually picks up the extra cholesterol in the artery walls and transports it to the liver for disposal.  A high HDL level can offset the damage high LDL levels can cause.

What Are Normal Cholesterol Levels?

Generally speaking, the normal levels are as follows.  However, keep in mind that some people such as those with known heart disease and diabetes are advised to maintain lower levels than average.  

Total cholesterol: Less than 200
HDL cholesterol: Greater than 59
LDL cholesterol: Less than 100
Triglycerides: Less than 150

What Causes High Cholesterol?

The most common belief is that a diet high in cholesterol is the cause.  However, studies from UCLA, the University of Missouri and others find no correlations between cholesterol in the diet and serum cholesterol levels.  

What can lead to high cholesterol is the lack of other nutrients such as chromium, magnesium, vitamin B3, and omega-3 essential fatty acids to metabolize it.  

Some studies show that a diet lacking in essential fats and high in sugar and carbohydrates can lead to high serum cholesterol levels.  

A Michigan study done in 1976 determined that being overweight correlates with high cholesterol levels.

It is known that low thyroid function can also lead to elevated cholesterol levels.

Why are high levels of cholesterol bad for me?

Research indicates that high blood levels of cholesterol correlate with higher incidences of cardiac disease.

What Are The Types of Cholesterol Lowering Medications?

Statins
The most commonly used cholesterol lowering medications
o Are in a class called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
o Very effective in lowering cholesterol levels but can often cause serious side effects
o Side effects include but are not limited to: headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, liver function tests abnormalities, and rhabdomyolysis which can result in potentially life threatening complications.

Bile Acid Binders

o Help to rid the body of cholesterol.
o Often come in a powder that is mixed with juice or water
o Most common side effects include constipation, bloating and nausea
o Vitamin deficiencies are also a potential side effect.

Fibric Acid
o Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid.  
o Especially effective in lowering triglyceride levels.  
o Most common side effects are gastric symptoms
o Can also cause abnormal liver function tests and rhabdomyolysis.

Fibrate
o Fenofibrate (like Gemfibrozil) is the most effective in lowering triglyceride levels
o Fenofibrate also helps to decrease LDL levels.  
o The side effects are similar to those of Gemfibrozil

Niacin
o Is a B vitamin.  
o Can lower total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels as well as raising HDL levels.  
o Most common side effects are flushing and itching, but there are measures you can take to prevent or decrease these side effects.  
o Can cause abnormal liver function tests so it is important to monitor levels regularly

What Natural Supplement can be used to Lower Cholesterol?

Lipitrol provides a nutritional supplement that helps maintain cholesterol levels.

Bio-Lipotrol provides a nutritional supplement that helps lower cholesterol levels and increase HDL levels.

Must use C0-Q10 when taking natural or medical supplements.

Is There A More Natural Way to Lower My Cholesterol Levels?

Improving your overall health will help to keep your levels in check.  

Stop smoking

Treat hypothyroidism

Maintain a healthy weight

Get regular exercise

Eat a nutrient rich diet

Use nutritional supplements to help achieve and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Supplements that help improve levels include: lecithin, vitamin C, vitamin E (taken with flaxseed, sunflower or safflower oil), fiber, garlic, olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils.


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D

Depression
DEPRESSION

The following are several questions and answers about the illness called Depression. Please read all of these carefully, since it is very important that you understand your illness as thoroughly as possible. Having studied this sheet, you may have some questions to ask us.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION? It is an illness affecting the entire mind and body, causing a person to feel miserable in many ways. Changes in brain chemistry make it happen.

WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?  We do not know. We used to think it was due to something unhappy in a person's life or to some psychological hang-up. We now know, however, that this disease happens to people who have no reason to be depressed and who have no psychiatric problems.  In other words, this is a disease often affecting normal and healthy people.

DOES HAVING A DEPRESSION MEAN THAT A PERSON IS MENTALLY ILL OR GOING CRAZY?  No but it will very often make them think they are.
       
IS IT A COMMON ILLNESS?  Yes, it is one of the most common illnesses seen in all of medicine; however, it is often confused with other illnesses. For example, many people who think or are told they have "low blood", vitamin deficiency, sinus headaches, low sugar, menopause, "the change", "burnout", and "all run-down and need rest", actually have depression causing their troubles.

WHAT TROUBLE DOES A PERSON HAVE WHO HAS DEPRESSION?  A person with depression will usually feel most of the following symptoms:

Very tired all the time, even when not working or exerting very much. They will be just as tired on days when they have rested as on days when they have worked hard.

Sleep will usually be affected in one of two ways: they will either go to sleep and then wake back up during the night and remain awake or they will sleep too much all the time, even during the day.

Feel very irritable. He will get upset very easily over little things that ordinarily would not upset him.

Feel very sad for no reason, and will often break into tears without knowing why.              

Normal sex drive will be very much decreased, and will often go away altogether.

Have a headache, perhaps not very severe, but present most of the time.  Almost any chronic pain elsewhere, such as in the abdomen or back, can be caused by depression.  These pains are not imaginary, but are quite real and often severe. If another illness is already causing pain, depression can double its intensity.

Find it difficult to enjoy things. Also, they will feel little enthusiasm, even for things they used to look forward to.

Be constipated, or have other digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea. They may lose or gain weight.

Find it difficult to concentrate, to make decisions, to remember things, to get things done.

Feel like an ineffective, worthless person, even though they know there is no reason to feel that way.



IS THIS REALLY A SERIOUS ILLNESS?  Yes.  In a mild depression, the person will often think he just has a case of spring fever, or that he is just getting a little older, but his efficiency will still be affected.  In a more severe depression, it can be quite serious. This is the illness that can cause a very healthy and happy person to decide to kill himself.

CAN A PERSON DO ANYTHING TO FIGHT THIS DISEASE? Not by his own efforts. This is a disease over which a person has no control, and it will do him no good to "try to fight this myself"

IS THERE ANY EFFECTIVE TREATMENT?  There are several drugs that are usually very effective against depression. They are also quite safe compared to most medicines.

ARE THEY TRANQUILIZERS, PEP PILLS, SLEEPING PILLS, PAIN PILLS, HORMONE PILLS, SEX PILLS OR NERVE PILLS?  No, none of these. They are called antidepressants. They work by restoring brain chemistry to normal.

ARE THEY ADDICTING?  Absolutely not. A person cannot become addicted even though these medications are taken for months or years.

DO THEY HAVE UNDESIRABLE SIDE EFFECTS?  Unfortunately, some of them have pesky side effects. They rarely have serious side effects. They will cause a person's mouth to be dry. Some will cause drowsiness, although this is very temporary. Others cause no drowsiness. There are several other minor side effects that affect some people, but they are not serious problems. Many of the newer ones have no side effects at all.

ARE THESE NOT THE SAME AS THE "PEP PILLS" OR "UPPERS" THAT I HEAR ABOUT?  Absolutely not. Pep pills give anybody a sudden boost of energy, whether they are depressed or not. Antidepressant pills on the other hand will do nothing to a person without a depression, but will greatly help a person, who has depression, by correcting his abnormal brain chemistry,

HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO TAKE THEM? It varies from several months to sometimes longer than a year. Fortunately, the medications can be taken safely for as long as they are needed, even for a lifetime.

YOU SAY THAT THIS DISEASE HAPPENS TO A PERSON WITHOUT ANYTHING IN THEIR PERSONAL LIFE CAUSING IT?  In many cases this is so. However, many people will have things in their personal life that are bothering them a great deal, and if they happen to get a depression while these things are bothering them, then everything gets much worse. For example, if they are having difficulty with their marriage or their jobs, and are unfortunate enough to get depression also, then the difficulties with the marriage or job will get worse, because their ability to cope with their difficulties is impaired. So difficulties in life do not cause depression. But depression can and will cause great difficulties in life.

WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY HUSBAND OR WIFE ABOUT ALL OF THIS? We strongly recommend that you have your spouse read this paper too. A person with depression will almost always find that his husband or wife is very much affected by the way he feels. Very often your husband or wife will not realize that your symptoms are due to a disease and will think that you simply do not love them anymore! They will often think the fault is somehow theirs. It is very important that they know that this is simply an illness, just as pneumonia or diabetes is an illness, and that neither you nor they are responsible for it. We would also welcome them to come back with you on your return visit and discuss this with them in detail. Even though they do not really cause your depression, it is still a great help to have your loved one understand what is happening, why you need medication, etc.


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Drug Free America
DO YOU THINK AMERICA IS DRUG FREE?

By Leigh Erin Connealy, M.D.


Think again!  "Doctors give drugs of which they know little, into bodies, of which they know less, for diseases of which they know nothing at all."  (Quoted by Voltaire)

In 2002, Americans filled 3,340,000,000 outpatient prescriptions —12 prescriptions for every man, woman and child in America.  Each year in the United States, there are 106,000 deaths from properly prescribed pharmaceutical drugs.  If you tell a doctor that a nutritional supplement, an herb or essential oil can bring about healing with no negative side effects, they won't believe you.  This is because in medical school, students are repeatedly told by the professors that all effective medicines have negative side effects, and if they don't, then they can't be effective.  

When I was in medical school, one professor emphasized this point in a colorful, graphic manner with specifically prepared slides.  In each slide, specific drugs were depicted as evil looking demons or goblins.  As he presented each picture, he explained, although ugly and capable of doing harm, these demons are also the bearers of some good.   "So long as the benefits outweigh the risk, we use them," he summarized.  "We have no choice," he continued, "because if a drug has no dangers, then it can have no benefits.  That's just the way it is.  That is why it is essential that only qualified physicians be allowed to prescribe medicines," he concluded.  

Actually, the professor was telling the truth.  But in the restricted practice of allopathy (MD's), the only real medicines are physician-prescribed pharmaceuticals.  Such medicines always have negative side effects - all of them - no exceptions.  Hence, doctors are trained to accept the bad with the good as a price of effective medicine.

The dangers of prescription drugs are intrinsic to the drugs themselves.  No matter how careful the physician is in prescribing, and how compliant the patient in following doctor's orders, even then death and damages occur.  In this country, more people die from doctor's prescriptions every ten days than were killed in the 9-11 terrorist attack.

Why is this so?  Why do allopathic drugs always have undesirable effects while one can find healing with natural products with no undesirable effects?  Here is why.  

It is illegal to patent any natural products.  The way to big profits in the medicine industry is to create an unnatural substance that never before existed in nature, then patent it, and maintain a monopoly.  Hence the molecules of pharmaceutical drugs are all strange to the human body.  In all the history of human kind, such molecules were never encountered or taken into any human body.   Thus, the body does not easily metabolize them.   God never made your body to accept and deal with these chemicals and antibiotics.  And you can find traces of prescriptions drugs in your body that were taken in childhood.

On the other hand, natural molecules are easily metabolized by the body.  In fact your body was created to handle them.  By contrast, the unnatural molecules of man-made drugs attach themselves to various tissues, disrupting normal function, for years while the body tries to figure out what to do with them.  Meanwhile, they wreak mischief with our bodily functions and even our mind.  Drugs and natural molecules work in opposite ways.  Drugs toxify.  Natural molecules de-toxify.  Drugs clog and confuse receptor sites.  Natural molecules clean receptor sites.   Drugs depress the immune system, and natural molecules strengthen the immune system.  Antibiotics attack bacteria indiscriminately, killing both the good and the bad.  Natural molecules attack only the harmful bacteria allowing our body's friendly flora to
flourish.

Drugs are designed to send misinformation to cells or to block certain receptor sites in order to trick the body into giving out symptoms.  But drugs never deal with the actual causes of disease.  They aren't designed for that purpose.  While they may give prompt relief for certain uncomfortable symptoms, because of their strange unnatural design, they will always disrupt certain other bodily functions.  Thus you always have some side effects.  Natural molecules send information to cells and cleanse receptor sites so that they bring your body back to natural function.  Drugs are unbalancing to the body.  With drugs, misinformation is fed into the cells so that some temporary relief may be obtained, but there is never any true healing.  Drugs only trade one kind of disease for another. Natural molecules properly applies always work toward the restoration of proper bodily function.  They do not cause undesirable side effects.  They are feeding the body with truth.  Drugs feed the body with lies.  While no amount of truth can contradict itself, it doesn't take many lies before contradictions occur and the body suffers ill effects.


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E

Energy Medicine
WHAT IS ENERGY MEDICINE?
By Leigh E. Connealy, MD

Imagine that you're sitting in the doctor's office.  The doctor takes a small, hand-held probe connected to a meter and, with no further questions, gently presses certain points on your hands and feet while noting the figures displayed on the meter.  From this he or she is able to tell you which parts of your body are functioning correctly and which organs are causing problems.  Some small glass vials containing colorless liquids are placed into a container, which is also connected to the device, and the doctor re-measures some of the points.  From this, the doctor is able to tell you why there is a problem.  Finally, he or she gives you a few drops of a tasteless medicine.  Before long, you feel better.

A description from a futuristic fantasy?  No, this is precisely what is happening in medical clinics around the world today with practitioners of Energy Medicine.

What is Energy Medicine?  "For most of this century," says William Tiller, Ph.D., of Stanford University, "science and medicine have seen health as being dependent upon the balance of body chemistry and the functioning of physical structures.  However, attempts to treat illnesses and imbalances chemically often lead to unwanted side effects or the body becoming insensitive to the chemicals."  

This fact has led many physicians and health professionals to look beyond conventional drug-based therapies to the field of Energy Medicine.  Many of the most sophisticated diagnostic systems used today in conventional medicine, such as the EKG,  EEG, and MRI  employ the principles of Energy Medicine.  Energy Medicine refers to therapies that use an energy field - electrical, magnetic, sonic, microwave, infrared - to screen for or treat health conditions by detecting imbalances in the body's energy fields and then correcting them.

The detection of energy level imbalances in the body is essential for providing an early warning system for potential disruptions in chemical balance that may lead to disease.  Balance can then be restored using holistic therapies, or with treatment devices that rebalance the energy levels of the various fields before the chemical or structural disturbances can occur.

Most energy medicine devices are based on the acupuncture meridian system.  Acupuncture works on the principle that there is a network of energy channels, called meridians, throughout the body.  Different organs are associated with different energy meridians, and health problems in various organs show up as disturbances of energy in the associated meridians.  Acupuncture points are the points along these meridians where energy flow can be measured and manipulated.

Since the 1940's, research has established that acupuncture points possess electrical conductivity.  German doctors, led by Reinhold Voll, M.D., measured changes in electrical conductivity at each of the body's acupuncture points.  They discovered that the electrical resistance of the skin decreases dramatically at the acupuncture points when compared to the surrounding skin.  They also found that each point appeared to have a standard measurement for anyone who is in good health (when there is a steady flow of bioenergy, or qi, in the meridians).  This measurement changes when health deteriorates.

These discoveries greatly simplified the task of locating acupoints rapidly and accurately.  Based on the work of Dr. Voll and his colleagues, and later by researchers in Japan, a new field of Energy Medicine instruments has been developed both for assessment and treatment.

Dr. Voll developed a precise measuring instrument known as the EDS (electrodermal screening device) that allowed him to measure the electrical resistance at acupuncture points.  He discovered that higher or lower readings than normal at a particular acupuncture point indicates a problem in the organ that corresponds to that acupoint; higher generally means there is irritation or inflammation in the organ and lower actually indicates fatigue or degeneration.

These acupoints correspond to specific organs and tissues because they provide a general indication of the health of the organ or tissue as a whole.  There are also specific points that indicate how the various parts of each organ are functioning.  If the point for a particular organ gives a poor reading, the points for the various parts of that organ can be checked.  Whichever part of the organ shows an imbalance is the site of the dysfunction.  

To date there are over two thousand such points that have been established as having specific relationships with internal organs.  A skilled physician can, in a relatively short time, discover not only which organs have problems, but which part of the organ is malfunctioning and what other organs, if any, it is affecting.  Thus it becomes possible to find the root cause of any problem.

The electrodermal screening can be used to detect toxins, food allergies, and disregulations in organs and glandular systems.  You can also use this device to test various remedies to determine which medications will correct the problem, and if there are likely to be any side effects.  

Every function in the body depends on the correct energy.  All disease initially begins as a functional disturbance that only becomes a clinically recognizable disease over time.  This is one reason is why so many patients have symptoms that cannot be diagnosed using conventional methods.  If there are no tell-tale morphological findings, conventional medicine is often at a loss to explain the problem.  The supremacy (this primacy) of energy over the material has been known since ancient times.  For example, traditional Chinese medicine clearly states its important principle as "blood olive qi".  This means that the material aspect of the body is subordinate to the energetic.  Nobel Laureate in Medicine Albert Szent-Gyogyi noted over forty years ago, that in every culture and medical tradition before ours, healing was accomplished by using moving energy.  

It is important to emphasize the fact that this electrodermal screening is only a tool.  Electrodermal screening machines do not produce automatic answers for medical problems with the push of a button.  There is no "black box" effect at work, no secret circuitry or artificial intelligence contained inside these machines.  It is the practitioner who is doing the testing with the aid of the instrument - the instrument itself is not doing the testing.  Every medical device provides some type of information about the patient that must be interpreted by the practitioner.  In this regard, EDS machines are no different than other medical tools such as EKG, x-ray machines or even a stethoscope.  Each of these tools requires a trained practitioner who has the learning and experience to effectively interpret the results they produce.  In the hands of a skilled practitioner, EDS machines are powerful tools that can directly access the body's sophisticated communication and control network.  In this way, EDS devices can help practitioners diagnose or analyze medical conditions that are beyond the reach of conventional medicine because they provide a way to evaluate the patient at the energetic level where all disease begins and ends.


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Essential Fatty Acids
How Essential Fatty Acids Help the Body

Approximately 80% of Americans lack sufficient amounts of essential fatty acids or in short (EFA's in their diet.  This presents a serious health threat.  EFA's are needed to provide the body with energy (especially the heart), and serve as integral parts of nerve cells, cell membranes and hormone-like substances called prostaglandins.  To keep the body healthy, essential fatty acids and prostaglandins have many widespread roles.  They help to:

1. Produce steroids and hormones
2. Direct hormones to their target cells
3. Reduce pain, inflammation and swelling
4. Mediate the immune system
5. Dilate or constrict blood vessels
6. Regulate circulation
7. Regulate smooth muscle and autonomic reflexes
8. Regulate the rate at which cells divide
9. Regulate secretions such as mucous and their viscosity
10. Regulate pressure in the eye, joints and blood vessels
11. Maintain the fluidity and rigidity of cell membranes
12. Regulate the flow of substances in and out of cells
13. Transport oxygen from red blood cells to the tissues
14. Maintain proper kidney function and fluid balance
15. Keep saturated fats moving in the blood stream
16. Prevent blood cells from clumping together
17. Mediate the release of pro-inflammatory substances from cells which may trigger allergic reactions

Symptoms of Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency

The symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency may be mild to very serious, ranging from dry skin to a fatal heart attack.  Doctors who are not trained in nutrition may miss very obvious signs of essential fatty acid deficiency.  Typical symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency are:

o Dry lifeless hair o Immune system disorders o Constipation
o Dry skin o Fatigue and poor energy o Lack of motivation
o Dry mucous membranes o Breast cancer o High blood pressure
o Chest pain o Indigestion o Depression
o High Cholesterol o Gas and bloating o Split nails
o Frequent colds and flu o Forgetfulness, memory loss o Aching joints
o Arthritis o Cardiovascular disease, endurance

In this era of fat phobia, it may be hard to believe there are good fats.  These good fats are called essential fatty acids because they are essential for life.  You must get them from your diet since your body cannot make them.  Lack of essential fatty acids in your diet can progress from minor symptoms at first, such as dry skin, to chronic degenerative disease later on, such as heart disease and cancer.  Therefore, I recommend as a corner stone of therapy that everyone take all the essential fatty acids in a supplement called Perfect Oils.


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H

Heavy Metal Toxicity
HEAVY METAL TOXICITY AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO
CHELATION THERAPY



Overview

Most of the problem with heavy metal toxicity (primarily mercury) is its indolent, slow, smoldering effect that never lets the patient know that mercury is at the root of the problem. Exposure to mercury begins in the womb where the mother transfers mercury to the fetus through the placenta. Once the fetus is out of the uterus, there
are many ways for mercury and other heavy metal levels to begin to accumulate. The common areas where mercury is found are:

Auto exhaust Paint pigments and solvents
Pesticides Cinnabar (used in jewelry)
Fertilizers Laxatives
Amalgams (silver fillings) Mercurochrome/methiolate
Drinking water (tap and well) Cosmetics: mascara
Tanning weather Floor waxes and polishes
Felt Wood preservatives
Plumbing - piping Adhesives
Bleached flour Batteries
Processed foods Air conditioner filters
Fabric softeners Fish
Calomel (talc, body powder)


Mercury, Metals and Dental Health

If you are like most Americans, or most people in the world for that matter, you probably have mercury and/or other metal fillings in your mouth. Mercury fillings, also known as "silver fillings" or "amalgam" fillings, are the most common fillings in the world. Called silver because of their color, they actually contain from 45% to 52% mercury. Copper, tin, silver and zinc make up the remaining volume.                                                          


Some interesting facts related to the common dental filling (amalgam):

Scientific research has demonstrated that mercury, even in small amounts, can damage the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, thyroid gland, and pituitary gland, adrenal gland, cells, enzymes and hormones, and suppress the body's immune system. Mercury has been shown to pass the placental membrane in pregnant women and cause permanent damage to the brain of the developing baby.

Mercury is continually released from mercury dental fillings in the form of mercury vapor and abraded particles. This process is simulated and can be increased as much as 15-fold by chewing, brushing, hot liquids, etc. The World Health Organization recently concluded that the daily intake of mercury from amalgam dental fillings exceeded the combined daily intake of mercury derived from air, water and food (including fish).

In human autopsy studies, it has been found that there is a direct correlation between the amount of mercury found in the brain and the number and surfaces of mercury fillings in the teeth.

Mercury causes normal intestinal microflora to become mercury resistant and antibiotic resistant. Mercury resistant bacteria cause mercury in the intestinal tract to be converted back into vapor and recycled back into the body.
Antibiotic resistance is becoming a major medical concern.

Recent scientific research has shown high levels of mercury in the brains of individuals dead from Alzheimer's disease (AD).   Other research is demonstrating mercury can cause similar pathological effects in the brain as
that seen in Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS) and AD. Laboratory studies of spinal fluid from ALS and AD patients has confirmed that mercury inhibits key brain detoxification of enzyme systems.

One surely can see from the above list that the body can accumulate a large quantity of destructive mercury through life from many sources including the common dental filling.

As an aside, if mercury is so dangerous, shouldn't everyone run out and have their dental fillings removed? The answer is a great big NO! The process of removing amalgams can generate mercury vapor and particulates many times greater than leaving them alone. Before making a decision to have your fillings removed, have your physician screen your body with a simple urine test to measure the level of toxic heavy metals in your body.

Why Do Some People Become Mercury Toxic?

This is a question of how much "goes in" versus what "goes out." If more goes in than out, there is a buildup, so the exposure is important. If less "goes out," there is a buildup. There are natural ways the body gets rid of mercury, one of which is with conjugation of a tripeptide nutrient in our body called glutathione.

In general, we have a balance between how much gets into the body and how much we eliminate, and the end result is what is stored in the brain, liver and kidneys.

What are the Symptoms of Metal Toxicity?

Insomnia Paresthesia (numbness and tingling)
Nervousness Hallucinations
Dizziness Headaches
Anxiety Fatigue
Loss of self-confidence Muscle weakness
Irritability Hearing difficulties
Drowsiness Emotional stress
Depression Skin inflammation
Weight loss Uncoordination
Tremors Kidney damage

From the above, it should be quite obvious that many chronic symptoms/complexes that people have go undiagnosed because mainstream physicians are not familiar with chronic mercury toxicity and most even doubt its existence.

Does Mercury From Amalgams Contribute to Cardiovascular Disease?

A recent study from the Orient showed direct evidence that mercury damages the lining of blood vessels. That certainly emphasizes the fact that there is a link between vascular disease and mercury toxicity.


What Relationship Does Mercury Have in the Contribution to Free Radical Formation?

Damage from free radicals ("molecular bullets") has been linked to over 100 medical illnesses ranging from arthritis to aging. Free radicals are necessary for life but an abundance leads to illness. Like everything else, the right amount works well - too much is not right.

Therefore, when an individual is chronically exposed to mercury from the amalgam (losing daily amounts of mercury) the body is under continuous stress that leads to damage to varied organs and the final consequence of experiencing chronic illness.

Chronic Illness and Chronic Mercury Exposure from Amalgams and the Environment

Between the exposure from the environment (in which 60 tons of mercury is released into the air every year from industries in the U.S.) and the amalgams (silver fillings) that contaminate our bodies, it is no wonder there is an overwhelming increase of chronic illness in our world.

Toxic Metals

We live in very polluted times. Toxic metals are everywhere. Mercury is in our fillings, while aluminum is in our drinking water and anti-perspirants.  Cadmium is in cigarette smoke, nickel is in our cooking utensils, and uranium is in the air and soil. We have 500 times more lead in our bones than our great great grandparents did. As these levels of toxic metals have increased, so have the rates for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Chelation Therapy can safely and effectively remove these toxic metals from our bodies.

Cancer Risks

Cancer rates have skyrocketed in the last few decades. Right now, the average person has a 35% chance of dying of cancer. Studies have shown that people who undertake Chelation Therapy before clinical evidence of cancer may lower their lifetime risk of cancer by 90%.

Heart Disease

Many people use Chelation Therapy to help clean out their arteries and with good reason. In one study, 92 people who were referred for surgical intervention for heart disease were given Chelation Therapy instead. After the Chelation Therapy, only 10 of them ultimately required surgery. The other 82 were able to "bypass the bypass".  Doing maintenance Chelation Therapy also makes good sense when you consider that heart attacks are the number one cause of death in the US, currently accounting for 45% of all mortalities.

Chelation and Life Extension

Laboratory tests have shown that Chelation Therapy can increase the lifespan of animals an amazing 49.4%. Chelation not only increased the length of their lives, it increased the quality of their lives as well. Chelation Therapy kept them younger, longer. A 49% increase in human lifespan would give us an average lifespan of 120 years. What would you do with an extra 40 years?


Summary

You have briefly read about some of the problems caused by low-level chronic exposures to metal toxins from the environment. The removal of amalgams, change in diet and consideration of environmental factors as well as appropriate Chelation detoxification therapy should be considered once its determined that the symptoms you are presently experiencing may be the result of metal toxicity.

Remember, symptoms of this process are varied and difficult to diagnose. Any organ of the body can be involved but the most common problems involve the following areas:

Central nervous systems (brain) Kidney damage
Kidney Blood vessels
Reproductive organs Pancreas
Immune system
Therefore, if you have problems, which are "strange", or your doctor doesn't know the cause of these problems, think metal toxicity (mercury) and consider Chelation Therapy as a treatment option.

Breakthrough Chelation Therapy Treatment Option

You should be aware of the fact that there are alternative techniques to treat metal toxicity problems. In most instances, the general population knows nothing about such treatments because the traditional medical establishment isn't aware of its existence and/or such knowledge has been suppressed over the years by various powerful organizations.

Chelation Therapy deals with the treatment and prevention of diseases involving the blood vessels of the body such as heart attacks, hardening of the arteries and strokes. Historically, the traditional approach to treat metal toxicity disease primarily involved surgery and/or an extensive IV drug regimen utilizing a chemical called EDTA (depending upon the individual's severity of symptoms, doctors typically prescribe an intravenous (I.V.) infusion often taking two-three hours to administer, two/three times weekly) In early 2001, a significant treatment alternative became available to patients via a rectal suppository delivery system which offered patients a minimally invasive treatment option., However, shortly thereafter, a breakthrough metal toxicity treatment option was introduced to the medical community which now affords the patient the added choice to take an oral sodium EDTA solution which offers enhanced transport with significantly less side effects.

Physicians familiar in the administration of Chelation Therapy treatment alternatives will thoughtfully review the benefits of undergoing such therapeutic treatments with their patients. Not only do clinical studies to support that more than 75% of patients who receive Chelation Therapy treatment show significant improvement in the reduction of metal toxicity symptoms, they also show that patients obtain substantial side benefits that tend to correct dietary deficiencies, smoking habits and lessen the potential for cardio-vascular disease.


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Hypothyroidism

HYPOTHYROIDISM

Description:  An under active thyroid gland that causes an underproduction of thyroid hormone.  The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck.  Virtually all metabolic processes are affected by the thyroid hormone.  Hypothyroidism affects both sexes at any age, but is more common in middle-aged women.

Frequent Signs and Symptoms:  It is unlikely one person will have all the following symptoms, but most will have several:

Decreased tolerance for cold; decreased sweating.

Decreased appetite.

Constipation.

Chest pain.

Coarse or slow-growing hair.

Slow, rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Weight pain or extreme thinness.

Placidity or nervousness.

Sleepiness or insomnia.

Mental impairment, including depression, psychosis or poor memory.

Fluid Retention, especially around the eyes.

Dull facial expression and droopy eyelids.

Coarse skin.

Decreased tolerance for medication.

Decreased sex drive and infertility.

Menstrual disorders.

Anemia.

Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet.

Deepened or hoarse voice.

Causes:  Sometimes unknown.  Most common causes include:

Autoimmune disease, in which the body's immune system functions abnormally and attacks the thyroid gland.

Radioactive iodine treatment.

Surgery for hyperthyroidism.

Iodine deficiency in the diet.

Decreased activity of the pituitary gland, which secretes a thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Drugs, such as lithium, that may depress thyroid function.

Risk Increases With:

Adults over age 60.

Obesity.

Surgery for hyperthyroidism.

X-ray treatments.

Preventive Measures:

No known measures to prevent primary hypothyroidism.

Take replacement thyroid for life after either thyroid surgery or destruction of the thyroid gland by radiation treatment.

Expected Outcome:  Usually treatable with careful thyroid-replacement therapy.  The goal of treatment is to provide the body with enough thyroid substance for efficient body function.  Medical evaluation may be necessary for several months to establish the correct dose of thyroid replacement.  Relapses will occur if treatment is interrupted.

Possible Complications:

Myxedema coma—life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism.

Increased susceptibility to infection.

Adrenal crisis with vigorous treatment of hypothyroidism.

Infertility.

Over-treatment over long periods can lead to bone dimineralization.

Treatment
General Measures:

Laboratory blood studies of thyroid hormones.  Lab studies can confirm the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, but they cannot indicate how much replacement therapy is needed.

Goals of treatment are long-term thyroid replacement and recognition of symptoms to avoid over or under-dosing.

You many require hospitalization if complicating emergencies occur, such as myxedema coma (extremely rate in warm climates, more common in cold climates).

Medications:  Thyroid replacement hormones will be prescribed.  Dosage requirements will depend on age, weight, sex, capacity of thyroid function, other drugs you take and intestinal function.

Activity:  No restrictions.  Stay as active as possible.

Diet:  No special diet for hypothyroidism.  Avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet.  Weight loss diet recommended if you are overweight.

Notify Our Office If:

You or a family member has symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Symptoms don't improve within 3 weeks after treatment begins.

New, unexplained symptoms develop.  Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

Comas or seizures occur.  Get emergency help immediately.


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I

Infrared Sauna
INFRARED SAUNA THERAPY


Sauna therapy is a thermal therapy that has been recognized throughout history as a viable means of relaxing and cleansing the body, improving overall health, and promoting a sense of well being. From Finland to India to North America, medical professionals recommend saunas as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for detoxification. It is a practical means of stimulating the release of non-essential or toxic trace metals such as nickel, cadmium, and lead through sweat. The therapeutic rationale for using sauna therapy is that overheating the body, and hence inducing an artificial fever, stimulates metabolism, inhibits the growth of bacteria, increases the ability of all vital organs, and increases the capacity of the skin to eliminate, detoxify and cleanse via profuse sweating.

Infrared saunas use radiant energy to directly penetrate the body's tissues to a depth of over 1½ ".  Its energy output is tuned to correspond so closely to the body's own radiant energy that our bodies absorb close to 93% of the infrared waves that reach our skin.  Infrared rays are selectively absorbed by the tissues needing a boost in their output.  The internal production of infrared energy that normally occurs within our tissues is associated with a variety of healing responses, and may require a boost to a maximal level to insure the fullest healing response possible in a tissue under repair.

The infrared energy may exceed up to 2-3 times the sweat volume of a hot air sauna while operating at a significantly cooler air temperature range of 110o - 130o  vs. 180o  – 235oF for hot air saunas.  The lower heat range is safer for those concerned about cardiovascular risk factors.  Infrared saunas emit 1/3 of their output in the middle infrared band from 2 to 5.6 microns for deeper penetration, and the other 2/3 in the long band from 5.6 to 25 microns.  The band from 2 to 25 microns is the most therapeutic according the Chinese researchers.  Japanese researchers have reported that infrared radiant heat antidotes the negative effects of toxic electromagnetic sources, i.e. high tension power lines or computer display terminals.  These thermal systems have been free of such toxic electromagnetic fields and are not dangerous.  

Safety of Sauna Therapy

Sauna therapy is generally well tolerated by most healthy adults and children. This therapy has been shown to cause transient changes in hormones and cardiovascular, function.  However, sauna therapy does not influence fertility and it is considered a safe treatment during uncomplicated pregnancies in healthy women.  With regard to cardiovascular health, recent research shows that repeated sauna therapy upregulates endothelial nitro oxide synthase expression in arterial endothelium thereby improving the hemodynamics, endothelial function and clinical symptoms in patients with chronic heart failure.  Further, some studies suggest that long-term sauna therapy may improve the left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with chronic congestive heart failure, and it may help lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.  Patients with chronic bronchitis and asthma may benefit from the transient
improvements in pulmonary function that occur because of sauna therapy. Further, patients with rheumatic disease can safely employ sauna therapy as a means of improving joint mobility and relieving pain.                                                                          
Contraindications:                                
Contraindications to sauna therapy include:

Adrenal Suppression

Recent Myocardial Infarction

Unstable Angina Pectoris

Severe Aortic Stenosis

Alcoholism or recent alcohol consumption

Heart Disease

Kidney Disease

Anemia

Pregnant Women should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional

Systemic Lupus Erythematosis

Multiple Sclerosis

Hemophiliacs

Overview

The major benefits of Infrared sauna therapy include:

Weight Loss:  Burns 900 - 2400 calories in just one 30 min. session

Release of accumulated toxins such as pesticides, PCBs, drug residues, acidic wastes and non-essential trace metals

Improvement in symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis

Improves skin tone and elasticity, softens scars / Essential for beautiful, youthful, glowing skin

Increased oxygenation of the tissues and cells

Greatly speeds any anti-cellulite program

Increased circulation, oxygen and nutrient delivery within the body

Improvement in immune function

Improved cardiovascular function

Improved pulmonary function

Alleviation of pain and improved joint mobility / helps with sprains, strains, muscle spasm

Improved psoriatic conditions

Relief of symptoms of asthma and chronic bronchitis

More recently, it has been used in cancer therapy and shows great promise

It assists in resolution of inflammatory infiltrates, edema and exudates

Sunburn - Infrared radiations are the only antidote to excessive ultraviolet radiation

Relaxation and enjoyment - remove stress in comfortable warm temperature.


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Integrative Medicine


Integrative Medicine combines the knowledge of modern physiology, biochemistry, and conventional orthodox medicine, with tradtional natural medicine. This is based on thousands of years of experience, from ancient Chinese and Indian medicine, including the practice of modern homeopathy, naturopathy, and herbal medicine. Integrated Medicine requires a completely different way of

Integrative Medicine tries to identify and eliminate causative factors responsible for the pathogenesis of disease in each individual patient, and teaches ways to assist and enhance their self-regulatory, healing mechanisms using homeopathics, herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, homotoxicology and other energetic ways of detoxifying and balancing the body.

www.gordonresearch.com

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L

Light Beam Generator
LIGHT BEAM GENERATOR - LYMPHATIC THERAPY

The Problem

The most underrated circulatory system in the human body is our lymphatic system.  And, most health practitioners never consider the critical role lymph plays in preventing sickness or the critical role it plays in keeping us healthy!

The lymph system is a vital circulatory system and the body's primary immune defense and waste eliminator system; it is critical to managing the elimination of toxins from our body.  It contains over 600 'collection' sites called 'lymph nodes' and has a network or collecting vessels, making it even more extensive than the venous system.  Our lymphatic system is primarily responsible for carrying disease-fighting material to cells attacked by germs, transporting the dead germs away, and supplying protein-rich plasma fluid back to the heart.  When this system is blocked, we become defenseless against attacks by viruses, fungi and bacterium.  

Medical research explains the lymphatic system as the primary system used by all immunological support elements (such as macrophages, T-Cells, B-Cells, lymphocytes, etc.) to fight the virus, fungus and bacteria attacking our body.  It is also composed of over 50% plasma protein and is the major system carrying nutrition-rich plasma protein back into our blood.  When the lymph system is blocked, infection-fighting material is prevented from destroying germs and cell-nourishing elements are prevented from reaching our blood.  As a result, germs grow, our blood loses needed protein, the immune system falters and infectious diseases march in.

With the lymphatic system blocked, an engorged (swollen) condition results in our lymph nodes.  In a recent AIDS study by Dr. Fauci, NIH Allergy & Infectious Disease Center, (this condition) "results in providing a breeding ground (especially for the HIV virus) for pathogenic material.  The lymph system acts as a reservoir of infection churning out billions of HIV-infected immune-system cells that eventually spill into the blood stream, where they travel to other parts of the body.  Much later, after enduring years of viral proliferation, the immune system begins to falter, and infectious disease marches in."  Studies reveal that "up to 10 times as much virus may reside in the lymph system as in the blood."

Most chronic disease problems occur at the junction of lymph vessels called 'lymph nodes'.  One can feel lymph nodes by pressing under the arms just below the collarbone or in the crease between the thigh and pelvic area.  When touching these areas, many people will feel small bumps and sometimes pain.   The bumps and pain are symptomatic of blocked lymph nodes.  Blocked lymph nodes indicate a breakdown in the 'mechanical' functioning of the lymphatic system.  See common lymph tenderness areas shown by dark areas:

In men, the inguinal nodes, located in the area (crease) of the groin between the genitals and the thigh, are the primary channels for letting accumulated lymph (protein and fluid) release from the prostate.  In women, the axillary nodes, located in the armpit and extending from the armpit down towards the breast, and the primary channel for releasing accumulated lymph (protein and fluid) from the breast.  In many prostate, breast and other cancer situations, these lymph nodes are well involved and enlarged, resulting in reduced ability to eliminate lymphatic fluid.
                                         





The Solution

The issue of lymphatic flow has been studied for many years with in-depth clinical research resulting in very efficient manual methods for restoring the lymph system.  Using manual lymph drainage techniques in conjunction with non-invasive technology called the Light Beam Generator (LBG) effects a swift, safe and natural method of eliminating excess lymphatic fluid.  The LBG assists the body to achieve a free-flow of proteins within the lymph system and to release bonded protein blockages in the interstitium of the connective tissue. The LBG is a non-invasive technology and uses extremely low current and negatively charged light photons providing compatible frequencies to the blocked area resulting in cells correcting their out-of-balance condition and disassociating themselves from the binding agent responsible for the swelling and blockage.  Rapid movement of waste material within the cell then occurs, greatly increasing the delivery of the waste material to the organs responsible for body waste disposal.  Hands-on therapy is increased as free-flow of proteins speeds the healing process.  With waste material moving within the body, day to day factors like eating habits, body structure, nutrition, medication and mental health can be addressed to provide a successful formula for restoring health.  Common conditions that can receive relief from the use of lymph massage and the LBG are:  pain, especially as it involves soft tissue; sciatica, breast conditions, fibrocystic disease, P.M.S., and inflammation; intestinal syndromes; diabetes; arthritis, bursitis and other conditions where inflammation is involved; swelling, bruising with edema; and pre-op and post-op surgical recovery.

TAKE ACTION
Ask your physician / health practitioner to help you evaluate the degree to which your lymph system is possible contributing to our medical problem. Then, if applicable, request your physician / health practitioner to prescribe, lymph massage therapy as part of your medical treatment.


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M

Meditation, Learn How
LEARN TO MEDITATE

Because it is a subtle and specialized technique, meditation is best learned from a qualified instructor; it is not as easy to learn how to meditate correctly from a book. We will have a qualified instructor to teach patients how to meditate. One of the reasons that it is so important to meditate is that silence is the "first place of happiness." Silence is where we get our burst of inspiration, our tender feelings of compassion and empathy, as well as, our sense of love. These are all delicate emotions and the chaotic roar of me "internal dialogue," easily drowns them out. When you discover the silence in your mind, you no longer have to pay attention to all those random images that trigger worry, anger and pain. This is a meditative technique for reaching your inner silence that you can learn right now. These techniques are basically physiological. They take advantages of the natural silence that exists in the mind body system when it is in a relaxed state.

When you are ready to begin, sit quietly holding at your hands lightly at your side or in your lap. Now, with your eyes closed, start to breathe lightly and easily. Let your attention easily follow your breathing. Feel your breath entering your nostrils and flowing down into your lungs. Do not inhale deeply or hold your breath, just breathe normally. When you exhale, let your attention follow the air up out through the lungs and softly through the nostrils.  

Nothing should be forced. The breath you're taking should move easily and gently. Your attention is following the course of your breathing, like leaves rustling in a gentle wind through the treetops. As your breathing gets a bit shallower and lighter, just let it happen. If you start to feel short of breath, do not worry. This means that you need a little more air and deep stresses are being released through your easy breathing. Be aware, you might also be forcing your breathing to be lighter than it needs and wants to be. Try to find the rate of breathing at which your body feels most comfortable....

When you are comfortable with this effortless process, you can add the sound "so hum" to the procedure. Silently think the word "so" on each inhale and "hum" on each exhale.                                                    

Continue this exercise for two to five minutes, just closing your eyes and focusing your mind on an easy, natural rate of breathing, silently repeating "so hum" with each cycle of your breath.

What is happening with this exercise? You probably noticed that just by paying attention to your breathing, you sank deeper and deeper into relaxation. And as you did so, your mind naturally became quieter. Did you sense that? If so, you probably experienced a few glimpses of complete silence, which you would not have noticed without it being pointed out to you. If you had looked for silence, it may not have appeared. Did you feel that there were periods when you lost track of time? This is a good indication that you were getting very close to the goal.              

Most people experience much fainter thoughts than usual during meditation.  This is another good sign of progress towards mastering this technique.          

As you gain experience with meditation, you will begin to feel the reappearance of a youthful energy and vitality, which are being released from a deeper level of the nervous system. This is a very profound change and the real "fountain of youth."

Although meditation has been wrapped in an aura of mysticism for many centuries, it has been shown to be an extremely practical and "unmystical" process of quieting the mind.  It is the surest way to open a channel of healing.                      


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Meridian Stress Assessment (MSA)


An MSA is used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine appropriate ways to achieve healthy energetic balance. This process involves measuring electrical conductivity at responsible points on the skin, typically on the hands and feet. According to European medical research, acupuncture points are related to the body’s organs and organ systems – 20 of these meridians begin or end on the hands and feet. According to energy medicine theory, every disease state is preceded by and indicated by an energy signal detectable by electrodermal screening devices. A report is generated which can assist your doctor in assessing which parts of your body are functioning correctly, and identifies possible pathogens and toxins that are making you sick. Another use for this is to test the current supplements / medications you are taking to see if they are compatible with your system.


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Mesotherapy
MESOTHERAPY

Mesotherapy is a medical specialty which involves injecting microscopic quantities of natural plant extracts, homeopathic agents, pharmaceutical agents and vitamins into the skin to treat a variety of conditions.  Mesotherapy is effective for the treatment of cellulite, weight loss, fat spot reduction, body sculpting and rejuvenation, lifting and tightening of the skin.

All medicines used in Mesotherapy are FDA-approved for their use.  These medicines melt the fat beneath the skin and shrink the fat cells in the scarpus fascia layer.  The fat dissolves and, as occurs when fat is broken down during typical weight loss is carried through the bloodstream and excreted by kidneys and bowel.  

Mesotherapy for Cellulite:
Cellulite is an accumulation of fat, fluid, and toxins trapped in a hardened network of connective tissue fibers in the Mesoderm layer.  The fat cells inflate, causing a rippling and puckering of the skin, commonly referred to as orange peel skin.  Lymphatic and venous circulation is poor in these areas.  Mesotherapy is used to cause an increase in venous and lymphatic flow, as well as the elimination of fat and dimpling in the area.  In four weeks, a patient's skin appears significantly smoother.  Most patients lose anywhere from two to four inches where their cellulite is treated.

Mesotherapy for Overall Weight Loss:
Mesotherapy results are measured in inches.  Because fat is melted under the skin, about one pound of fat per week is lost (equal to four sticks of butter!).  The Mesotherapy treatment can be applied to arms, waist, hips, back, and legs.  A typical patient can lose up to two dress sizes with these treatments.  Patients have lost up to four inches on their waist, hips and thighs.

Mesotherapy for Spot Weight Reduction:
Mesotherapy is a painless alternative to liposuction.  Fat and cellulite are eliminated from targeted sites using the same techniques as above.  Unlike liposuction, only the fat (not the fat cells) is removed.  After ten sessions, patients can lose two to six inches in their saddle bags, hips, thighs, waist, love handles, back fat and chin when medicine is placed in those areas.  Mesotherapy is not used to reduce fat in breast tissue or fatty tumors.

Liposuction versus Mesotherapy

Liposuction Mesotherapy
* Surgical Procedure * Non-invasive Procedure
* Removes Fat Cells * Removes Fat From Fat Cells
* Cannot Be Used Where There is Cellulite * Used Wherever There Is Cellulite
* Down Time (2 Weeks) * No Down Time
* Wear Restrictive Garments Afterwards For Weeks * Wear Loose Clothing AfterTreatment
* Weight Gain Back In Abnormal Places * Weight Gain Back Where It Was Lost
* Significant Bruising and Pain * Minimal Bruising and Pain

Mesotherapy for Aging Skin:
Mesotherapy is a safe and natural alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures particularly when recovery time and side effects are of concern.  The process delivers vitamins, minerals and amino acids directly into the skin to nourish, rejuvenate and promote collagen and elastin production and to stimulate metabolism.  This is important because as skin ages circulation decreases.  The resulting decrease in the flow of blood and nutrients makes it more difficult for the body to flush out metabolic products which facilitates premature aging and appearance to the skin.  Patients commonly describe their skin as looking rested, glowing and firmer.


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NATURAL OR BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES
What are Natural or Bio-Identical Hormones?

o Does not come from a horse, a chicken or even a tree.
o The key to natural or bio-identical versus synthetic is the molecular structure of the hormone.
o Natural hormones have a chemical structure that is identical to the hormones naturally produced by the body.

Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Preparations

o Synthetic

"Patented", "conventional", "artificial", or "horse" - hormones that have been chemically altered.

May have a structure similar to, but not exactly the same as, hormones produced by the body.

Molecules are added to natural substances to create a synthetic product that can be patented by a manufacturer which are too potent and not easily excreted from the body.

A patented drug is profitable to mass produce

Pharmaceutical companies can afford to market the medication's use and effectiveness

Structural differences that exist between synthetic and human hormones can be responsible for side effects that are experienced when non-bio-identical hormones are used for replacement therapy

It is the structure of the hormone, not the source that is key.

o Natural or Bio-Identical

Indicates that the chemical structure of the replacement hormone is identical in structure and function to that of the hormone naturally found in the human body.

Chemically processed from precursors found in yams or soy plants and are identical to hormones produced by the human body - "bio-identical plant-derived hormone".

Hormones follow normal metabolic pathways and are easily excreted.

Bio-identical hormones cannot be patented, scientific studies are less numerous since no profit can be gained.

Benefits of Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy

o Fewer side effects versus synthetic derivatives
o Protection against heart disease
o Reduced risk of breast cancer
o Improved cholesterol and lipid profile

Goals of Natural HRT

o Alleviate symptoms caused by the progressive decrease in production of hormones by the body
o Give the protective benefits which were originally provided by naturally occurring hormones
o Re-establish a hormonal balance


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Plastics:  Beware The Plastic Plague
BEWARE THE PLASTIC PLAGUE
By Leigh Erin Connealy, M.D.

"I've got one word for you…Plastics"

You recall this popular cinematic phrase comes from the sixties classic movie "The Graduate."  Dustin Hoffman's character Benjamin has just graduated from college.  While trying to escape the madness of a party he would rather not be at Benjamin is cornered by a man hoping to convince Benjamin that he has the secret for the future.  He thinks Benjamin should think about a career in plastics!  

Looking back thirty-five years later, we see our whole world engulfed in plastic.  Isn't it about time we learn about the "plastic plague", a world of chemicals that surrounds and affects every aspect of our lives?

Despite all the conveniences of plastic, the worst-case scenario of plastic's impact on our health is just that, the worst.  Plastics can create practically every disease and symptom, including cancer.  

First, plastic is not just one chemical.  It includes styrene, vinyl chloride, and phthalates.  You don't have to be a chemist to know that these chemicals are swirling around you all the time, including now.  Nor do you need to be a physician to discover how these chemicals are damaging your health.

Styrene, for example, is found in styrofoam. It's also in the electrical wires on your appliances, televisions and computers.  And you will find it in kitchen plastic wrap, grocery store packaging, insulation, carpeting, construction materials, adhesives, cabinets, furniture, carpets, dental work, paint, flooring, pipes, cigarettes and auto exhaust.  If you get a new car, or a new boat, or a new RV, you actually smell the gases that styrene continually dispenses into the air.  

Another chemical essential in the creation of plastic are phthalates.  You can find phthalates in cosmetics, plastic wraps of fruits, vegetables and meats, plastic bottles for water, juices, soda, milk, ketchup, mayonnaise, and everything else that comes in plastic.  And that includes vital intravenous medicine bags and tubing.  

And it's not just that plastic and all its dangerous chemicals are continually around us. They are in us.  We have so much plastic in us that they are becoming a part of our bodies.  Government studies show that 100% of human fat biopsies show storage of plastics.  

When you think of how much new effort we're making about incorporating recommended dietary allowances of nutritional foods in our diets, it's amazing to think that we're ingesting an unwanted average daily dose of environmental poisons provided by plastic.

The "plastic plague" would diminish if our body had a good way of getting rid of all the chemicals we accumulate all day.  But it doesn't.   What do these plastic chemicals do when they get into our bodies?  Everything.  

We slowly accumulate more and more of these chemicals until finally we get a damaged organ that has been labeled as some particular disease.  They damage the liver and liver enzymes.  They can destroy our thyroids, can cause babies to be born with malformations, create mysterious fatigue, nausea, depression, addictions, liver kidney disease.  Plastics can cause every type of genetic disease that leads to autoimmune problems and, of course, cancer.  This includes any type of cancer from stomach to breast to prostate and lungs.

Not a very positive picture, is it?  Well, I certainly don't think we're ready to surrender to this plague.  You can minimize the effects of these chemicals on you and your family by reducing your contact with plastic.  

First, buy as few foods in plastic as possible.  It may not seem easy, but it is crucial, since plastic wrapped foods are the major source of contamination for must humans.  There are nutritional supplements you can take to detoxify your body on a daily basis.  Buy vitamins and supplements in dark glass bottles or very hard plastic bottles that don't dispense the plastic's chemical gases.  

Another idea is to incorporate air cleaners in your home that purify the air around you at all times.   And if you use an infrared sauna on a regular basis, you could slowly rid your body of the lifelong accumulation of stored plastics.

This "plastic plague" is one we are just learning about.  More research is being done every day.  But don't wait for test results and lab reports.  The best time to begin your battle against this contemporary hi-tech "plague" is today.


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Sleep Hygiene
GUIDE FOR BETTER SLEEP HYGIENE

Try a hot bath for 30 minutes to raise your body temperature - within two hours of bedtime.

Sleep as much as needed to feel refreshed and healthy during the following day, but not more.

Avoid or limit naps to 10-15 minutes a day - short naps can be beneficial.

Limit the bedroom for sleep and relaxation - don't use it as a work area.

Use the bed only for sleeping - do not read, watch TV or eat in bed.

Avoid unfamiliar sleep environments.

Excessively warm rooms can disturb sleep - ideal sleeping temperature is 64 to 66 F.

Eliminate intrusive light and sound from your bedroom.

If you wake in the night, focus on relaxing or get up and do something else for a while.

If you don't fall asleep within 15 minutes, get up again and do not return to bed until you feel tired.

Set your alarm and wake up at the same time every morning - your body will adapt to your sleep rhythm.

Regular arousal time in the AM strengthens circadian cycling and leads to regular sleep times.

Relaxing music or soothing natural sounds may help induce sleep.

Reading before you go to bed (not in bed) may help you go to sleep.

Hunger can disturb sleep - a light carbohydrate snack before bed may help you sleep.

Daily exercise may help deepen your sleep - but should be avoided at least 2 hours prior to bedtime.

Chronic use of tobacco disturbs sleep; quit smoking - or don't smoke after 7:00 P.M.

Avoid caffeine in the evening - and limit morning caffeine intake before 10:00 A.M.

Avoid heavy meals and spicy foods in the evening.

Avoid Alcoholic beverages; alcohol can fragment sleep, especially the 2nd half of the sleep period.

An occasional sleeping pill may be beneficial - but check with your physician.

SLEEP WELL…


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Sunshine Vitamin
The Sunshine Vitamin

By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD


"Organisms become adapted to the environment through natural selection in their search for a better world. . . the discovery that sunlight can be eaten. . . this inexhaustible food supply. . . created the kingdom of plants; and the discovery that plants can be eaten created the animal kingdom," Karl Popper.

A recent article in the British Medical Journal concludes that moderate sun exposure is a more proper recommendation, while many experts say you should stay out of the sun completely to avoid cancer.  As we review this whole aspect of the sun, it has been concluded that the benefits of the sunlight clearly outweigh the risks.  

What is the sun and what does sunlight do for us?  Sunlight is energy—it is electromagnetic energy that radiates from the sun in waves similar to that of the ocean.  Contained within each of these waves are colors of the rainbow—from longest to shortest, from red to violet—and the effect of these waves on our health and life is profound.  The infrared spectrum provides us with warmth and the ultraviolet with the nutrient crucial to life: vitamin D.  

The ultraviolet lights have waves of different lengths—UVA, UVB, and UVC.  It is important to know that 90-95% of the ultraviolet light in sunlight falls into UVA group, with UVB making up the majority of the remainder.  It is within this ultraviolet spectrum that we find most of the beneficial effects of sunlight.  

The most widely known benefit of sunlight is its essential role in production and regulation of vitamin D, which is important for strong healthy bones as well as properly functioning nervous system and healthy skin.  In extreme cases, children who do not have enough vitamin D develop rickets.  Rickets can be both prevented and cured by just a few minutes a day of strong sunlight.  Adults who are deprived of sufficient vitamin D don't develop rickets, but do suffer loss of bone mineral and weakening of their bones, called osteomalcia.  Again, exposure to sunlight (our best source of vitamin D) will solve this problem.  

How does sunlight work its magic to provide us with a steady and correct supply of vitamin D?  When sunlight strikes the exposed skin, the UVB portion causes a chemical change in a special type of cholesterol present in the skin, converting it to a form of vitamin D.  From the skin this inactive vitamin D travels through the blood stream to the liver, where it is again chemically altered, and finally to the kidneys for its final alteration to a substance called 125 dihydroxycholecalciferol or, more simply, active vitamin D.  So you can see that three organ systems—the skin, the liver and the kidneys—work together to provide our bodies with a consistent level of vitamin D.  

What happens when you slather on sunblock?  Most of the sunscreens on the market block the UVB portion of sunlight but offer little or no protection against the UVA wavelengths.  You end up with a false sense of security that you are wearing sunscreen and blocking out the dangerous UVA light.  The sun protection factor, or the SPF numbers, on the labels refer only to UVB screening, which is only 5-10% of the total ultraviolet light.  For example, an SPF of 8 means that the average individual using that strength of block could stay in the sun eight times longer before burning, because the blocking agents screen out the harmful UVB rays.  Obviously, with a higher level of SPF it permits that much more protection against UVB waves.  By applying sunscreen you are also inhibiting the production of natural vitamin D.  Research has shown that a single application of sun block with an SPF of 8 can effectively prevent the conversion of cholesterol on the skin to vitamin D, robbing the body of one of its most valuable bone-building and cancer-fighting nutrients.  

Since sunscreens protect primarily against the UVB, what will protect us against the UVA radiation?  Nature has taken care of this, giving humans a built-in sun protection—the ability of the skin to tan.  So with gradual "unblocked" exposure of skin to sunlight, both UVA and UVB waves stimulate pigment producing cells within the skin called melanocytes to produce a pigment called melanin, which is our natural sunscreen.  The body has a natural way of regulating that production.  People who are fair skinned require a buildup of time to develop the pigment in the skin, and they need short frequent exposure to build up the production of melanin.

You might be thinking that protecting yourself with full spectrum sunscreens is the best protection for everything, but as mentioned earlier in this article, these sunscreens cover the UVB rays but do not cover the UVA.  There have been some new developments in recent years that sunscreens with titanium dioxide (which is a physical sun block and covers half of the UVA wavelengths) and unfortunately all other sunscreens block UVB and UVA, which essentially robs the body of natural vitamin D production and prevents the skin from protecting itself with pigment.  You may be thinking that if you don't put on sunscreen when in the sun, you will surely burn.  Indeed, you will if you over expose your unprotected skin.  When your skin begins to turn red from UVB exposure, then you probably stayed in the sun too long.  The best strategy is to cover up at the first sign that your skin is beginning to slightly redden.  Rest your skin and slowly build up your pigment protection day by day.  

Why wouldn't I just take vitamin D pills?  Vitamin D is not abundantly found in the food we eat.  Fish oils provide the richest amounts, and a little is found in eggs and dairy products.  So our bodies really depend on the regular exposure of our uncovered skin to sunlight as the primary source.  If you were to take vitamin D in the pill form, you may be setting yourself up for vitamin D toxicity.  Our skin, along with the kidneys and liver, is innately designed to perform the task of supplying our bodies with natural vitamin D safely, but only when we need it.  When the body has enough, the conversion to the active form slows down, so there is no risk of becoming toxic.  

So why do we even need vitamin D?  Vitamin D becomes the body's main instrument of bone health.  It helps the intestines absorb dietary calcium and phosphorous.  Without enough vitamin D the body will not absorb calcium properly.  So beware, menopausal women, if you are taking calcium supplements and your vitamin D is inadequate, you're not doing anything to help build your bones.  We are constantly rebuilding and destroying bones and vitamin D exerts a direct effect through a hormone-like action that stimulates the bone to lay down minerals, remove the old bone, and replace it with new bone.  So with the help of rays of sunlight and vitamin D along .with proper nutrition, you can build and maintain bones throughout life.  

There are several other health benefits of vitamin D: besides building and strengthening bones, it is involved in regulating calcium metabolism (calcium is the most prevalent mineral in your body).  It is also significant in balancing our mood, alleviating depression, boosting metabolism, regulating blood pressure, and preventing the growth of cancers of the breast, colon, prostate, and even malignant melanoma.  When we are exposed to the sunlight our thyroid gland is stimulated, and production of many of our hormones such as testosterone, growth hormone, epinephrine, and norepinephrine (all of which help our metabolic weight, body weight, and aid in blood sugar control) is stimulated.  There have been reports as late as 1997 in which active vitamin D was given to laboratory mice, which in turn completely prevented the mice from developing Multiple Sclerosis.  

The sun has been around for millions of years giving us energy, warmth, and all kinds of phenomenal miraculous benefits.  Unfortunately, we are increasingly worried about aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancers, so therefore we slather ourselves with sunscreen to protect ourselves.  The body has been designed to have antioxidants present in the skin and tissues that protect you from damage by the sun, but you have to replace them regularly in your diet with proper nutrition, antioxidants (especially beta carotene), vitamin e, selenium, good fats, animal proteins, and magnesium so that your body can replenish the antioxidants that it stores.

Actions to take:
1. Sunbathe year round.
2. Begin with just a few minutes of exposure, until you have a pink foundation.  Never let your skin burn.
3. Sunbathe with clean skin, free of lotions, soaps, perfumes or cosmetics.
4. Do not use sunblock—the production of both vitamin D and melanin pigmentation are UVB dependent.
5. Use sunscreen only after you've had proper sun exposure and you are going to be in the sun for extended periods of time.
6. Reduce sun exposure when you are in the snow, white sand, or high altitude locations.
7. Do not exceed the safe daily limits.  Put on a hat and the proper clothing, and a sunscreen that contains a physical sun block, such as titanium dioxide.
8. Enjoy the sun—the sun is your friend
9. One teaspoon per day of cod liver oil—now available in multiple flavors—or cod liver oil pills is recommended for a great source of vitamin D.


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Yoga and Breathing
YOGA AND BREATHING

The word "yoga" is derived from the verbal root, yuj, meaning to yoke or harness. Yoga is the process of unifying one's mind body and soul in order to express the energy of one's true nature. In the author's professional opinion, based on personal experience with practicing and teaching yoga, hatha yoga (a type of yoga referred to as "SCMCysical" yoga) is the ideal exercise practice while going through a clinical purification program. Just as one uses alchemic principles to create a purification formula from herbs and foods to address the functioning of specific organs in the body, hatha yoga involves the alchemic reprogramming of mind and body that serves to release toxins and purify the soul.

The word "hatha" is derived from the Sanskrit root, ha (sun) and tha (moon), and is the equalization and stabilization of the sun-moon (yin-yang) life-force. The purpose of Hatha yoga is to free the body and mind from dysfunctional blockages. With respect to the Clinical Purification™ Process, this equates to the elimination of exogenous and endogenous toxins.  Hatha yoga involves a methodical and integrative approach to stretching and contracting different muscle groups to strengthen and lengthen opposing muscles. Hatha also re-aligns the
skeleton and applies weight to vital bones to maintain and increase bone density. At the same time and perhaps less obviously, Hatha yoga also gently massages all internal organs.

Following is a series of basic yoga postures that one can begin practicing at home. It is important to be in a warm room, with comfortable clothes and preferably barefoot. When practicing these postures, one must be mindful of his/her body, backing off when one feels pain and slowly extending beyond the point of resistance only when one feels ready to do so. Those who practice yoga regularly often notice a gradual increase in strength, flexibility and balance.  The most critical factor when practicing yoga is to be mindful of one's breath.

Sit / Easy Position - Sukhasana:

A starting position that helps focus awareness on breathing and the body; helps strengthen lower back and open the groin and hips.

Sit cross-legged with hands on knees. Focus on your breath. Keep your spine straight and push the sit bones down into the floor. Allow the knees to gently lower. If the knees rise above your hips, sit on a cushion or block. This will help support your back and hips. Take 5-10 slow, deep breaths. On the next inhale, raise your arms over your head. Exhale and bring your arms down slowly. Repeat 5-7 times.

Dog and Cat:

Increases flexibility of the spine.

Begin on your hands and knees. Keep your hands just in front of your shoulders, your legs about hip width apart. As you inhale, tilt the tailbone and pelvis up, and let the spine curve downward, dropping the stomach low, and lift your head up. Stretch gently. As you exhale, move into cat by reversing the spinal bend, tilting the pelvis down, drawing the spine up and pulling the chest and stomach in. Repeat several times, flowing smoothly from dog into cat, and cat back into dog.

Mountain - Tadasana:

Improves posture, balance and self-awareness.

Stand with feet together, hands at your sides, eyes looking forward. Raise your toes, fan them open, then place them back down on the floor. Feel your heel, outside of your foot, toes and ball of your foot all in contact with the floor. Tilt your pubic bone slightly forward. Raise your chest up and out, but within reason - this isn't the army and you're not standing at attention. Raise your head up and lengthen the neck by lifting the base of your skull toward the ceiling. Stretch the pinky on each hand downward, then balance that movement by stretching your index fingers. Push into the floor with your feet and raise your legs, first the calves and then the thighs.

Breathe. Hold the posture, but try not to tense up. Breathe. As you inhale, imagine the breath coming up through the floor, rising through your legs and torso and up into your head. Reverse the process on the exhale and watch your breath as it passes down from your head, through your chest and stomach, legs and feet.

Hold for 5 to 10 breaths, relax and repeat.

On your next inhale, raise your arms over head (Urdhava Hastasana) and hold for several breaths. Lower your arms on an exhale.

As a warm up, try synchronizing the raising and lowering of your arms with your breath - raise, inhale; lower, exhale. Repeat 5 times.


Forward Bend or Extension - Uttanasana II:

Stretches the legs and spine, rests the heart and neck, relaxes mind and body.  

Begin standing straight in Mountain pose or Tadasana.  Inhale and raise the arms overhead.  Exhale, bend at the hips, bring the arms forward and down until you touch the floor.  It's okay to bend your knees, especially if you're feeling stiff.  Either grasp your ankles or just leave your hands on the floor and breathe several times.  Repeat 3-5 times.  On your last bend, hold the position for 5 or 10 breaths.  To come out of the pose, curl upward as if pulling yourself up one vertebrae at a time, stacking one on top of another, and leaving the head hanging down until last.

Trikonasana - The Triangle:

Stretches the spine, opens the torso, improves balance and concentration.

Start with your legs spread 3-4 feet apart, feet parallel.  Turn your left foot 90 degrees to the left and your right foot about 45 degrees inward.  Inhale and raise both arms so they're parallel with the floor.  Exhale, turn your head to the left and look down your left arm toward your outstretched fingers. Check that your left knee is aligned with your left ankle. Take a deep breath and stretch outward to the left, tilting the left hip down and the right hip up. When you've stretched as far as you can, pivot your arms, letting your left hand reach down and come to rest against the inside of your calf, while your right arms points straight up. Turn and look up at your right hand. Breathe deeply for several breaths. Inhale, and straighten up. Exhale, lower your arms. Put your hands on your hips and pivot on your heels, bringing your feet to face front. Repeat the posture on the other side.

Warrior II --  Virabhadrasana II:

Strengthens legs and arms; improves balance and concentration; builds confidence.

Begin in mountain pose with feet together and hands at side. Place your feet 4-5 feet apart.  Turn your right foot about 45 degrees to the left. Turn your left foot 90 degrees to the left so that it is pointing straight out to the side. Slowly bend the left knee until the thigh is parallel with the floor, but keep the knee either behind or directly over your ankle. Raise your arms overhead. Then slowly lower them until your left arm is pointing straight ahead and your right arm is pointing back. Concentrate on a spot in front of you and breathe. Take 4 or 5 deep breaths, lower your arms, and bring your legs together. Reverse the position.

The Cobra -- Bhujangasana:

Stretches the spine, strengthens the back and arms, opens the chest and heart.

Lay down on your stomach. Keep your legs together, arms at your side, close to your body with your hands by your chest.

Step 1: Inhaling, slowly raise your head and chest as high as it will go. Keep your buttocks muscles tight to protect your lower back. Keep your head up and chest. Breathe several times and then come down. Repeat as necessary.

Step 2: Follow the steps above. When you've gone as high as you can, gently raise your hands off of the floor stretching the spine even more. Only go as far as you are comfortable. Your pelvis should always remain on the floor. Breathe several times and come down.

Downward Facing Dog - Adho Mukha Svanasana:

Builds strength, flexibility and awareness; stretches the spine and hamstrings; rests the heart.

Start on your hands and knees. Keep your legs about hip width apart and your arms shoulder width apart.  Your middle fingers should be parallel, pointing straight ahead.  Roll your elbows so that the eye or inner elbow is facing forward.  Inhale and curl your toes under, as if getting ready to stand on your toes.  Exhale and straighten your legs; push upward with your arms.  The goal is to lengthen the spine while keeping your legs straight and your feet flat on the ground.  However, in the beginning it's okay to bend the knees a bit and to keep your heels raised.  The important thing is to work on lengthening the spine.  Don't let your shoulders creep up by your ears - keep them
down.  Weight should be evenly distributed between your hands and feet.  Hold the position for a few breaths.  Come down on and exhale.  Repeat several times, synchronizing with your breath:  up on the exhale and down on the inhale.

Head to Knee -- Janu Shirshasana:

Stretches and opens back and hamstrings, improves flexibility

Sit on the floor with legs extended in front or you. Bend one leg, bringing the heel of the foot as close to the groin as possible. You may want to place a pillow under the bent knee for comfort.  Make sure your sitz bones are firmly grounded on the floor and that your spine is straight, Turn your body slightly so you face out over the extended leg. Inhale and raise your arms over head.  Exhale and begin to move forward slowly. Try to keep the back as straight as possible. Instead of bending at the hips, focus on lifting the tailbone and rolling forward on your sitz bones. Inhale and lengthen and straighten the spine. Exhale and roll forward, however slightly. To get a bit more forward movement, engage your quadriceps (thigh muscles) as you move forward. This releases the hamstrings, giving you a bit more flexibility. When you've moved as far forward as you can, lower the arms and grasp your foot, or leg. Hold the position for a moment and breathe. Then on the next exhale gently pull yourself forward. Go slowly and remember to keep the back straight. When done, straighten up and do the other side.

Half Shoulderstand -- Ardha Sarvangasana:

Promotes proper thyroid function, strengthens abdomen, stretches upper back, improves blood circulation, induces relaxation

You probably remember doing this as a kid. Lie on your back and lift your legs up into air.  Place your hands on your lower back for support, resting your elbows and lower arms on the ground. Make sure your weight is on your shoulders and mid to upper back - not your neck.  Breathe deeply and hold the posture for at least 5-10 breaths, increasing the hold over time. To come down, slowly lower your legs, keeping them very straight - a little workout for your abdominal muscles.

The Bridge - Sethu Bandhasa:

Increases flexibility and suppleness; strengthens the lower back and abdominal muscles; opens the chest.                                                                          

Lay on your back with your knees up and hands at your side.  Your feet should be near you buttocks about six inches apart. To begin, gently raise and lower your tail. Then, slowly, raise the tailbone and continue lifting the spine, trying to move one vertebra at a time until your entire back is arched upward. Push firmly with your feet. Keep your knees straight and close together.  Breathe deeply into your chest. Clasp your hands under your back and push against the floor.

Take five slow, deep breaths.

Come down slowly and repeat.

The Corpse -- Savasana:

Relaxes and refreshes the body and mind, relieves stress and anxiety, quiets the mind.

Possibly the most important posture, the Corpse, is as deceptively simple as Tadasana, the mountain pose. Usually performed at the end of a session, the goal is conscious relaxation. Many people find the "conscious" part the most difficult because it is very easy to drift off to sleep while doing Savasana. Begin by lying on your back, feet slightly apart, arms at your sides with palms facing up. Close your eyes and take several slow, deep breaths. Allow your body to sink into the ground. Try focusing on a specific part of the body and willing it to relax. For example, start with your feet, imagine the muscles and skin relaxing, letting go and slowly melting into the floor. From your feet, move on to your calves, thighs and so on up to your face and head. Then simply breathe and relax. Stay in the pose for at least 5-10 minutes.


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