Ask The Naturopath

Bone is a living tissue! There is a constant remodeling of the bone shaft from the cells that create and breaks it down. The bone shaft itself is laden with minerals such as Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Boron, Strontium, and other trace minerals. Calcium and all the other minerals are vital to bone health and strength. However these minerals must bind to core posts inside the bone matrix. These flexible posts are made from collagen and elastin which impart flexibility and resiliency to the bone shaft. If there is less collagen and elastin, then the result is fewer and fewer binding sites and a reduction in bone mineral density. That is partly the reason that seniors' bones are more brittle and prone to more falls and fractures than children's. Two things that bones and skin have in common are collagen and elastin. If the body is making less collagen and elastin on the whole, it will be reflected in the increase amount and deepening of the wrinkles seen on the face and other parts of the skin.

There has been an increased amount of research done on Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), and its role as a pro-hormone in strengthening bone in general. Vitamin D3 also has been proven to improve sun damaged skin. Ask your doctor to check your vitamin D3 levels since most of us are deficient in this important vitamin.
Another exciting new product which has been used in Europe as a prescription but is now available in the states is Orthosilicic Acid. This is the bioavailable form of silica and has been proven to markedly improve skin tone, hair, joints and bones. Orthosilicic acid links together single chains of amino acids to form collagen strands. Natural forms of silica can be found in such herbs as Horse Tails (equisetum officinalis) but the orthosilicic form is 10 times more potent.

There is more to improving bone than what I've outlined here. Don't forget about the vital role that weight bearing exercise plays in strengthening your bones. Your skin tone may indeed be a reflection of the health of your bones!

Wednesday 24 March 2010

April 2010 - Green Living

By Nikki on Wednesday 24 March 2010, 21:28

Question: Are there green or eco friendly ways that we can give and donate to countries such as Haiti after their devastating earthquake?

Answer: Thank you for your forward thinking. Most people don't realize the ongoing effort needed to help a country or an area that has been thoroughly devastated. Well after the glitz of the media is gone, the tedious work of rebuilding from scratch seems an insurmountable task. Yet this presents a wonderful opportunity to establish green practices going forward in the rebuilding process.

Send food or supplies that are more ecofriendly in terms of sustenance and packaging. Another way is to support micro industries in these countries. There are some internet sites under micro economics or microorganic farming in third world countries. You can also support the local industries by buying food or products that have a "fair trade" label on them. These companies buy products from the local farmers at more reasonable rates. Part of recycling is donating clothes, furniture and equipment to smaller organizations that sees to it that the funds are distributed among those that are in need. Small businesses are looking for old computers, telephones and other business equipment.

A lot of third world countries are plagued with pollution and waste that are not eco friendly. I was in Haiti well before the earthquake and was appalled at the trash on the streets which was littered with a lot of crushed plastic water bottles from the US and Canada! Start a writing campaign to companies demanding them to have recycling sites in countries such as Haiti. It would provide much needed jobs and lessen the devastating effects of the leaching of harmful phytochemicals into the water and ultimately into our bodies. It would also help if every household had a sustainable water filtering system such as envisioned by the purewaterfortheworld org. or contribute to missions that are building wells in the countryside. This way people would have filtered water at home and carry it in water jugs instead of having to buy water for their every need.

Keep thinking globally and act locally. Every small act of kindness is reflected throughout all of humanity.

Monday 1 March 2010

March 2010 - Inspire Change in Eating Habits

By Nikki on Monday 1 March 2010, 19:26

Question: How can I get inspired to change some of my unhealthy eating habits?

Answer: The fact that you are asking the question is the first step and it often means that you are ready for change. Change does not come easily to most and what inspires one person may be totally different for another. Sometimes change in eating habits is brought on by some newly discovered health condition and we are faced with a life style decision. Others get inspired by volunteering or being part of a greater cause which becomes their driving force. Walkathons and different kinds of races to raise awareness for breast cancer or for leukemia research.

Some of us are disciplined enough to start this process on our own; others may seek the help of various professionals. A life coach or nutritionist, for example, can help you focus on your goals while deciphering the obstacles that are standing in your way whether they are of an emotional, psychological or physical nature. They will help you make an inventory of the habits you want to break and make a reasonable attainable and sustainable health plan. Remember that change ultimately comes from your inner being. The key is not to let yourself sabotage your own progress. It's not all or nothing. Author and artist Mary Carroll Moore in her book "How to Master Change in Your Life" invites us to reflect on this question "What can this experience (change) teach me about myself and life? What is the highest state I can hold within this experience?"

Making changes in your health starts with decluttering your house. First get rid of the old stuff that no longer serves you. Do an inventory of your kitchen cupboard, pantry, and refrigerator. Read labels carefully. Discard that old cocoa puff cereal and replace it with more healthy alternatives. If junk food is not in your house, it won't make its way into your mouth! A regular exercise plan is also vital to this change. Recruit the help of friends if you need social reinforcement or joining a fun class can be motivating.

Monday 1 February 2010

February 2010

By Nikki on Monday 1 February 2010, 19:10

Question: How does laughter come into play in an integrative approach to diabetes?

Answer: Diabetes is on the rise in our “modern” civilization. Improper nutrition, lack of exercise and chronic stress seem to be the cumulative culprits at the heart of this syndrome which is exacerbated by an already genetic familial predisposition.

An integrative approach has proven to be the best way to manage chronic illnesses such as diabetes and other auto immune diseases. Dr. Norman Cousins elevated the healing power of laughter to the status of medicine as he describes in his book, Anatomy of an Illness. Laughter triggers among other things, certain neuro-endocrine transmitters in the brain to balance the effects of pain, fear and inflammation in the body. The adrenal gland which normally produces more adrenaline hormones in response to stress also regulates in part, along with the pancreas, insulin and sugar metabolism. Through laughter, the adrenal gland becomes less stressed and produces a more balance output of hormones. Perhaps the insulin receptor sites lining the cells’ membranes become more sensitive and more discerning of sugars and carbohydrates. The intricate laughing mechanism might help these receptor sites to be more receptive to the flow of biochemical and energetic information.

Laughter works best when it is integrated in a holistic program which includes exercise and proper nutrition. The key is to eat more vegetable based proteins with lots of fiber and less carbohydrates. Add more cinnamon to you oatmeal and even in your coffee! Essential supplements such as the Omega 3 fatty acids, alpha Lipoic acid and Chromiun picolinate help to decrease oxidative stress to the cell’s membranes and boost the immune system. Check with your doctor in terms of monitoring your hemoglobin A1C as a marker for sugar in your bloodstream.

Research has proven the efficacy of exercise in preventing and improving if not reversing the symptoms of diabetes. Look to exercise on a regular basis as a prescription for health.

Next time you are enjoying a good laugh with your friends or watching a funny movie, know that you are moving closer to bettering your health naturally.

Friday 1 January 2010

January 2010

By Nikki on Friday 1 January 2010, 19:48

Question: How do I detox after the holiday stress? Have you heard of the body composition machine analysis machine that can detect toxins in the body?

Answer: Holidays tend to be very stressful for people. Somewhere between the family issues, rich foods, rushing in toxic stores, we find ourselves desperately trying to maintain some semblance of balance in our lives.

First thing is to try to maintain a healthy attitude. Research has proven that attitude is at the core of staying healthy and keeping our immune system strong. Do a quick emotional and mental inventory of where you are and what you want to attract in your life. This is different from new years' resolutions that are usually filled with "shoulds" and slef sabotaging goals.

Be kind and reward yourself with healthy and positive alternatives. Suggestions include trying out a class in: yoga, Tai Chi, Dance, medication, spinning or a personal trainer to get you started on the right track.

The body composition analysis is a machine that measures among other things the body's fat and muscle percentage and fluid retention. Fluid retention tends to accumulate outside the cells of the system and can be a marker indicative of toxic buildup and inflammation in the body. It is a good way to measure your ongoing progress.

There are gentle two week detox kits that help with supporting the liver, colon, and lymphatic system.

Here are a few herbs and supplements that are helpful in sustaining energy, boosting the adrenal gland, and alleviating post holiday stress:

-Ginseng -- Eleutherococcus, Panax, Syberian, and American ginseng

-Vitamin D -- At least 1000mg. Helps with Seasonal Affective Mood Disorder (SAD.) Check with your doctor to see if you are deficient in Vitamin D3.

-Magnesium -- At least 200 to 400mg. Relaxes muscles and mind. Helps with sleep.

-CoQ10 -- At least 60mg. invigorates the heart and muscle cells.

-Herbal Combination teas: Passionflower, Chamomile, Kava, Lavender, Hops, Valerian

-Homeopathic Calming combinations -- Ignatia, Passionflower, Chamomile, Lemon balm.

Congratulations on going through another holiday! Remember to stay positive and give yourself healthy affirmations.

Tuesday 1 December 2009

December 2009

By Nikki on Tuesday 1 December 2009, 01:40

Question: I have trouble falling and or staying asleep. Are there alternatives to meds that can help?

Answer: Sleep is such an important part of our rejuvenating system. Our bodies make growth hormones and other neurotransmitters in abundance while we sleep. Even a power nap is important to our mental and physical state of being. Growth hormones are responsible for brain and muscle rejuvenation.

Surprisingly, your digestive system plays a major role in mood and your sleep rhythm. Dr. Candace Pert, PhD from the National Institute of Health has brought light to the connection between psycho-neuro-immunology and the digestive system. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps with mood, relaxation and sleep, is actually refabricated in the lining of your small intestines. Therefore, caffeine, sugar, chocolate, and excessive alcohol should be avoided at least 2 to 3 hours before sleep time.

When it comes to sleep, there are many factors to consider: stress level, hormonal changes (especially around menopause), and sleeping habits. Make sure you don't have instruments that emit Blue Wave Lengths in your bedroom such as a PC or TV. This Blue Wave may look pretty but it interferes with your sleep cycle. It suppresses melatonin, an important neurotransmitter that regulates sleep patterns. Melatonin levels and other stress hormones can be measured in the serum or through saliva.

Here are some herbs and supplements to consider.

These can be taken alone or in combination:

Melatonin (3 - 9 mg)

Valerian (200 - 400 mg)

Passion Flower (200 - 300 mg)

Hops (200 - 300 mg)

L-Theanine (50 mg)

5 HTP (Hydroxy Tryptophan) (50 - 200 mg)

Casein Tryptic Hydroxylate (50 - 100 mg)

Magnolia Officinal (200 - 400 mg)

Some of the above may be found in Homeopathic sleep formulas. Other techniques that assist with relaxation and sleep include bio feedback, yoga, Tai Chi-Chuan, mediation tapes and massage. You may also check with your doctor to be sure to rule out sleep apnea, a condition that deprives the brain of receiving enough oxygen during sleep. Pleasant Dreams! Natural Awakenings Publication

Sunday 1 November 2009

November 2009

By Nikki on Sunday 1 November 2009, 21:36

Question: With the scare surrounding the flu vaccines, what can one do to boost the system naturally?

Answer: The body is always inundated by viruses, bacteria, and other pollutants. The body’s immune defense will respond accordingly. Even the early 9th century Louis Pasteur, “Father of Vaccines,” came to the realization that the strength of our immune system makes the difference. The Lymphocytes which is part of the white blood cells are largely responsible for modulating the inflammatory response in the body. More and more research is proving that inflammation is part of the root cause of many diseases and the flu virus is no exception.

The omega 3 fatty acids found in fish, flax and borage oil decreases the inflammatory pathways. Vitamins such as A, C, D, Zinc help with inflammation in the throat and respiratory airways. The wisdom of our elders still prevails when they used cod liver oil! The probiotics found in organic yogurt and in acidophilus capsules boost the friendly gut flora and helps in defending our intestine from harmful bacteria, yeast or viruses. Research has shown that elderberry (Sambucca Nigra) contains potent antiviral properties along with Astragalus and medicinal mushrooms.

When fear is the driving force, we tend to make hasty decisions and don’t take the time to do our own research. Fear affects our adrenal glands and decreases the body’s innate ability to fight inflammation. So balancing stress is also vital to our immune system. There are informational websites that can help. Gary Null has researched studies documented under “Vaccine Nation.” There are issues with vaccines themselves and their base material. New Jersey coalition against vaccination is another helpful resource. Natural Awakenings

Friday 23 October 2009

October 2009

By Nikki on Friday 23 October 2009, 11:25

Question: My sister was newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Are there any natural alternatives that might help her in conjunction with her medical treatment?

Answer: Breast cancer has become the second leading cause of all cancers in women. One out of eight women is at risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. There are a number of healthy actions that boost the effectiveness as well as reduce the side effects and toxicity of conventional therapies.

Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Christiane Northrup, among many others, report that there are a variety of bad estrogens and hormones in conventionally processed meats and dairy products. These foreign estrogens mimic the bad estrogens (estrones) in the body and have been linked to the rise of breast cancer. Consume less meat and dairy and opt for organic, hormone free. Eating a higher fiber diet keeps the foreign estrogens from re-circulating and being reabsorbed in the digestive tract. Cancer-fighting vegetables such as broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are especially high in Indole-3-carbinoles. This class of compounds help the ovaries and liver process healthier hormones.

Foreign estrogens (called xenoestrogens) also come from the manufacture of plastics and can cause hormonal disturbances. Examples of xenoestrogens are from microwave plastic films and containers, man-made carpet residues, organochlorine chemicals such as vinyl chlorides, Dioxins, PCBs, phthalates, phenols, some industrial solvents and household cleaners. Opting for glass containers and natural products for household cleaning can help reduce the exposure to these foreign estrogens.

There is a proven correlation between cancer and an increase in inflammation throughout the body. Supplements such as vitamin D, omega 3 fish oil, turmeric, zinc and selenium are protective against cellular damage and inflammation. Consider herbs to help boost the immune system such as: Reishi, Shitake and Maitake mushrooms, Astragalus, Ligustrum, Ginseng and Schisandra. These herbs also help to rebuild the white blood cells and decrease the fatigue often associated with chemo or radiation treatments.

Complementary modalities including massage, acupuncture, meditation, Reiki and other energy work offer a holistic strategy that empowers the individual to participate more fully in their treatment plan. Natural Awakenings October Publication

Tuesday 1 September 2009

September 2009

By Nikki on Tuesday 1 September 2009, 01:48

Question: Allergy and Sinus: I’m an allergy and sinus sufferer. Are there natural alternatives for hay fever and sinus conditions?

Answer: Seasonal allergies are caused by an inflammatory response in the Mast cells of the immune system causing an abundant release of histamine in a feeble attempt to rid the body of the offending allergen. The symptoms range from itchy watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, headaches, fatigue and eventually sinus infections. Some prescriptions even the over the counter medications have known side effects such as heart palpitations, anxiety, increasing blood pressure and diabetes. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for possible drug interactions.

In contrast, Homeopathic remedies usually do not interact with pharmaceutical drugs. Many internationally recognized medical journals including the Lancet, Pediatrics, British Medical Journal and Archives of Otolaryngology have documented homeopathy’s healing ability. Homeopathics Are safe to use in children, the elderly and people who seem to be overly sensitive to common medications. Homeopathics come in sublingual pellets, oral or nasal sprays, ear and eye drops. Look for combinations which include Allium cepa, Euphrasia, Euphorbium, Apis, Histaminum, Pulsatilla, Sulfur.

In addition, herbs such as Stinging Nettles, Andrographis, Echinacea, Golden Seal, Astragalus help in boosting the immune system and decreasing the allergic response.

Fish or Flax oil, Quercetin, Zinc and Cromolyn Sulfate are supplements that decrease the local and systemic inflammation in the body.

Consider food allergies or sensitivities if your allergies or sinus condition are year round.

The main culprits are usually wheat gluten, dairy and yeast. Heavy metals can also be blocking some key detoxification mechanisms in the system.

Finally on a more esoteric level, allergies may represent something toxic that the whole organism is reacting to on an emotional, psychological or spiritual level. Make a quick inventory of your life and notice any dissonance in your environment or in your relationships. Natural Awakenings Publication

Saturday 1 August 2009

August 2009

By Nikki on Saturday 1 August 2009, 01:50

Question: I hear conflicting reports about putting my child on vitamin supplements. My pediatrician seems only interested in making sure that my toddler has fluoride? What is a frustrated parent to do?

Answer: Most kids are picky when it comes to food choices. Most likely they are not getting the full spectrum of vitamins and minerals for their needs.

Sometimes, a lack of key vitamins and minerals can actually trigger food binging and cravings. The brain is craving essential nutrients, but the signals get skewed and cannot convey the exact information to the conscious mind. The second concern is that our food supply is devoid of a lot of essential trace minerals and vitamins that the soil once provided. This sets the child for a double jeopardy situation. Hence the child starts to crave sugars and salt in a feeble attempt to satisfy the fatigue and tired mind. The result is an overweight but nutrient-starved child.

It is frustrating to get conflicting information from different sources. According to Leo Galland, M.D., author of Superimmunity for Kids: "Fluoride, whether occurring naturally in water or added as a supplement, can strengthen teeth against decay. But too much can inhibit the action of certain enzymes in your baby's blood as well as causing brown stains on his/her teeth. Tooth decay is caused by an excess of sugar, not a deficiency of fluoride. There is no evidence that fluoride supplements help prevent cavities if taken beyond the first year of life."

Talk to your pediatrician or health care provider and come up with a comprehensive approach. Start with a well-balanced multi vitamin mineral complex and a fish oil or flax seed oil. Fish oils provide much needed Omega 3 fatty acids needed for brain function and growing joints. They also help to balance blood sugar cravings. Add a probiotic acidophilus, especially if your child has been on antibiotics, to normalize the intestinal flora. Restrict artificial sugars for they compromise their fragile immune system. Natural Awakenings Publication

Wednesday 1 July 2009

July 2009

By Nikki on Wednesday 1 July 2009, 01:57

Question: My mother had allergies to wheat gluten for years but was finally diagnosed with Celiac disease at the age of 58! I heard that it may take years before people get diagnosed. What is gluten and why is it a problem nowadays?

Answer: Gluten is a gelatinous protein-like substance found in grains such as wheat, oat, rice, barley, and rye. Gluten imparts taste and soft elasticity to foods such as pizza, doughnuts, bagels, and rolls. It’s true that people are becoming more sensitive to gluten, especially as our wheat is being genetically modified. The major allergenic culprit is white refined wheat flour since it has more gluten than any other grain.

People who are sensitive to Gluten usually experience digestive distress such as abdominal bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea, anemia, and other nutrient deficiencies. They may be diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, or Celiac. According to Dr. James Braly, M.D., author of Food Allergy and Nutrition, “Gluten sensitivity is thought to be a factor in such diverse illnesses as multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis, nephrosis, dermatitis , autism, schizophrenia, and rheumatoid arthritis.” Other effects range from inability to focus, lack of energy, mood swings, hormonal dysfunction, to headaches or migraines.Symptoms usually start out rather vague over the years, making diagnosis more difficult.

It takes at least a full month of being gluten free before the lining of the intestines start to heal from the allergenic onslaught. During this time, it’s important to be careful of hidden sources of wheat gluten found in commercial products such as hot dogs, sausages, soups, baked beans, gravies, and salad dressings. People can learn to cook with and enjoy dishes made with other grains such as rice, millet, quinoa, kamut, corn, and oats. The Internet, local health shops, or gluten-free specialty stores have a lot to offer and make it easier to get foods that are tasty and easy to prepare. Natural Awakenings Publication

Dr. Nikki Conte, ND - Live. Learn. Be Healthy