Suggested Readings and Options on Nutritional Medicine

• magnesium
• vitamin D
• zinc
• essential fatty acids
• probiotics
• multi-vitamin

The second step is a more detailed process. It requires the services and support of a healthcare practitioner knowledgeable about the health and testing issues associated with autism spectrum disosrder. A developmental pediatrician with post-graduate education in applied medical nutrition is the ideal medical professional.

The authors address various symptoms found in children with ADHD or autism, identifying and treating the underlying nutritional and biochemical issues. Included are the nutrients to address the issues and the dosage/amounts by the child's age are listed. The authors specify which types of nutritionals which can be used for a particular condition.

• Allergies
• Anger, aggression, and/or self-injurious behavior
• Anxiety, perseverations, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and repetitive behaviors
• Attention and focus problems
• Communication and language delays
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Eye contact and vision problems
• Fatigue, endurance, and low muscle tone
• Hyperactivity
• Mood Issues
• Pica
• Sensory sensitivities
• Silly behavior and inappropriate giggling/laughing
• Skin problems (eczema, dry skin, and rashes)
• Sleep difficulties
• Yeast overgrowth

The authors also cover diet issues, and following the "do no harm" philosophy, removal of gluten (in grains), casein (milk protein), and soy products can be tried on a trial basis. In fact, pre-natal vitamins help mothers to have healthier babies, and reduce the incidence of autism, especially if they have a specific gene variant that causes folate deficiency. Also, information is provided on the various nutrients, which ones to use, how much, and their benefits. Pregnant mothers experiencing nausea in pregnancy may have a vitamin B6 deficiency. The following amino acids are discussed in depth: GABA, theanine, and taurine. Other nutrients covered include carnitine and co-enzyme Q10. Chapter 5 discusses interactions between medications, nutrients, and herbs.

Testing is covered. It turns out that the red cell blood testing is a more accurate test to use for magnesium and zinc, not the serum blood test. The use of digestive enzyme supplements is covered as many of these children have digestive issues. The authors also explain how the digestive system is supposed to work, issues associated with the digestive system, and which herbs are helpful. Protein is broken down into amino acids; and amino acids are broken down into peptides. The goals of the immune system are spelled out. Problems with the immune system can include the following:

• Immune deficiency or dysfunction
• Hypersensitivity or over-reaction to innocuous foreign substances (allergies)
• Imbalanced reactions involving cytokines
• Autoimmunity - the immune system attacks the body's own cells/tissues
• Inflammation

The authors explain four mechanisms: methylation, sulfation, oxidation, and inflammation. Methylation and sulfation are involved with the detoxification process. Increase of substances and chemicals (foreign to our bodies) found in our environment places a heavier burden on the immune system and the detoxification process. Apparently, the release of histamine as an allergy reaction can affect the brain. Inflammation can occur in the intestines as well as in the brain.

This guide was written as a tool for parents and guardians to better understand and help their child(ren) with these disorders and work as an informed partner with their healthcare provider, most often, a developmental pediatrician and with a dietitian/nutritionist specializing in ADHD and Autism. It is a collaborative effort.

In conclusion, the book really opens doors to different methods, minimizing the use of prescription medications, treating ADHD and autism through nutrition. It is written with a minimum of medical terminology, includes references, and an index. It is a great resource for all pediatricians. (Added 11/04/2014)

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Autism: Effective Biomedical Treatments (2005) by Jon Pangborn, Ph.D. and Sidney MacDonald Baker, MD. (Publisher: Autism Research Institute) (Added 10/24/2022)

Book review:

Sidney Baker, MD and Jon Pangborn, Ph.D. founded the Defeat Autism Now, called DAN! organization. They wrote this resource for the October 2005 DAN! Conference. It is now part of the Autism Research Institute. When they started this program, they knew of one child named Garrett that had recovered from autism through biomedical intervention. Now, the mother of this child saw 39 doctors without success. However, the 40th doctor was able to help Garrett. Now, there are thousands of children that have benefited from this type of protocol. This book covers and explains what this biomedical intervention consists of.

Before the 1960's, autism was rare. However, more and more children are being diagnosed with autism. The number is now reported to be one in thirty children are being diagnosed with autism. Many of the children were worse after receiving the DTP vaccine. Some of the other factors include the mother's exposure to dental amalgams (silver fillings that contain mercury).

Next, we have a table that highlights some of the concepts Dr. Baker, MD and Jon Pangborn, Ph.D. cover:

In view of the various responses, ASD children display to environmental assaults, it brings into question their immune system as well their digestive health. Digestive health is part of the immune system and overall health. It includes their ability to detoxify from the toxins and chemicals that is in their food, water, air, medicine, and other sources. The tests listed in the test table can probably be used to address other health issues.

A question arises, how does giving a child ritalin address the issues listed in this resource?

The issue of individual biochemical individuality seems to be ignored in mainstream medicine. There is really no one simple approach to treating autism. This is one resource that needs to be in the hands of every state and federal legislator, every pediatrician, every state health department, as well as the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Also, every health insurance company needs to have a copy. It is a resource to treasure, especially to parents. (Added 10/24/2022)

Web Resources on Autism and PPD

The Autism Research Institute was started by a parent of a child with the autism spectrum disorder. They conduct conferences twice a year open to both parents and practitioners, one on the east coast and one on the west coast in the United States. Their website is: www.autism.com. (Added 9/10/2011)

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AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES

While the topic of autoimmune disease can be covered under the immune system, autoimmune diseases represent a unique type of disease condition. In this case, the immune system attacks the body's own cells/tissues. At the present time, 23.5 million Americans have autoimmune disease. Furthermore, there are at least 100 types of autoimmune diseases. The actual number seems to be much higher.

We have an excellent resource written by Susan S. Blum, MD, MPH with Michele Bender covering strategies that can be used to help those suffering from an autoimmune condition. Another worthwhile resource is one called the Autoimmune Solution, written by Dr. Amy Myers, MD. Complementing the information that Dr. Myers has provided, is another resource called Autoimmune Fix by Tom O'Bryan.

For more information regarding autoimmune diseases, read about gluten sensitivity. The section on Wheat and Gluten Grains Sensitivity addresses a partial list of autoimmune disorders in the book called Dangerous Grains. There are quite a few of them. (Added 09/12/2013, updated 10/22/2013, updated 06/11/2017, updated 11/09/2021)

Books on Autoimmune Disorders:

The Autoimmune Fix: how to stop the hidden autoimmune damage that keeps you sick, fat, and tired before it turns into a disease (2016) by Tom O'Bryan, DC, CCN, DACBN. (Publisher: Rodale) (Added 11/09/2021)

Book Review:

The author, Dr. Tom O'Bryan, DC, CCN, and DACBN has written a very detailed book addressing autoimmune disease. He states that the United States has the most expensive healthcare system in the world that underperforms. Our healthcare system generally starts to respond when people are in a disease state. Both Dr. O'Bryan and Dr. Amy Myers, author of the Autoimmune Solution, report similar issues regarding autoimmune disease. One that they both address is the effect of gluten on our intestines and the gut. With an autoimmune disease, our bodies have what they call an area of weakness or weak link and that tends to be where we see an autoimmune disease or condition develop. Furthermore, there are many types of autoimmune diseases.

Below is a table talking about some of the more interesting concepts regarding autoimmune diseases.

When people see multiple doctors for a number of years before finally getting the right diagnosis, our healthcare system can do a much better job. In treating autoimmune disease, it requires lifestyle changes and a commitment to make these changes. Dr. O'Bryan covers transition phase one and phase two, to make it easier for people to make changes. One question that comes up is whether or not GMO foods are triggering more and more people experiencing gluten sensitivity.

It is important to drink clean water, to help the body with detoxification. There is discussion on diet. The right nutrients reduce the risk of autoimmune disease. Medications can increase autoimmune disease development. Drugs that target cytokines (specific types of immune cell) create more inflammation. This resource also includes recipes to use. After completing the transition phases one and two (if needed), it is advised to slowly reintroduce foods not listed in the transition phases. It also means healing the leaky gut. It is suggested to redo the antibody testing and see if the levels have gone down (improved). This resource includes endnotes and index. (Added 11/09/2021)

The Autoimmune Solution: prevent and reverse the full spectrum of inflammatory symptoms and diseases (2015) by Amy Myers, MD (Publisher: HarperOne) (Added 11/09/2021)

Book Review:

The author, Dr. Amy Myers, MD came down with an autoimmune disease while attending medical school. She heard about and learned about functional and integrative medicine and found that those approaches enabled her to heal. She has written a comprehensive resource to understanding this type of health issue and the treatment protocols to follow. It definitely involves lifestyle changes including what foods you eat. It means avoiding gluten.

Below is a table talking about some of the more interesting concepts regarding autoimmune diseases.

Throughout the book, the author includes case histories of patients that have dealt with their autoimmune condition. Questionnaires are posted for various types of health conditions, that people can utilize. Another benefit is that the author specifies which nutritional supplements are beneficial depending upon what type of health condition that is being addressed. Stress also has a role in any type of health issue. There is also discussion what which tests are beneficial and what types of information that they provide.

This resource includes a number of appendixes that cover specific topics in more detail. They are:

• GMO
• Heavy Metals
• Toxic Mold
• Biological Dentistry
• Detoxifying Your Home
• Improving Your Sleep
• Myers Way Symptom Tracker

The Immune System Recovery Plan: a doctor's 4 step program to treat autoimmune disease (2013) by Susan S. Blum, MD, MPH with Michele Bender. (Publisher: Scribner)

Book review:

This resource explains in detail a four step plan to follow to overcome an autoimmune disease, actually cure, and even better, prevent the onset of a fullblown autoimmune disease/condition. Dr. Blum was a doctor who successfully overcame her own autoimmune condition. She explains how autoimmune disease can be "cured" by addressing the underlying factors that causes autoimmune diseases. The treatment protocol outlined by Dr. Blum is more effective if the condition leading to autoimmune disease is caught in its early stages. The position of "wait and see attitude" is not beneficial to the patient.

Two types of autoimmune conditions exists. One type of autoimmune is systematic, affects the entire body/system, all the tissues, for example, lupus. The other type of autoimmune disorder is organ specific. An example of an organ specific disease is multiple sclerosis, which affects the brain and the spinal cord. The difference between different organ specific autoimmune disorders is that the immune system cells target and attack tissue in different parts of the body.

Dr. Blum lists various five factors that promote autoimmune disorders. They are: allergens, environmental toxins, microbes, poor diet, and stress. Autoimmune disorders can be triggered by exposure to gluten grains, heavy metals, toxins, infections, and stress. With gluten, the immune system may treat gluten as a foreigner and the antibodies attack gluten. Unfortunately, other tissues get attacked. This is called mimicry and it is one way gluten triggers autoimmune disease. (Note: mimicry is can occur with other substances.) One toxin that can play a factor in promoting autoimmune disease is mercury. Mercury can be found in a number of sources, starting with dental fillings, cosmetics, pesticides, some vaccines, pollution, and occupational exposure. Two types of mercury exist, methyl mercury and mercury vapor. They both cause problems and can cross the placenta and lodge in the fetal brain.

Dr. Blum also gives a brief overview of the various cells that make up our immune system, and also play a role in the development of autoimmune disease. With stress, chronic stress releases cortisol from the adrenals on a continuing basis. Stress can affect the levels of good bacteria in the intestines. It is also important to have good flora in the intestines, beneficial flora help the killer T cells. The cells that affect autoimmune conditions are:

• Lymphatic cells - A type of white blood cell that protects the body from harmful substances like infections
• Killer T cells - Attack any substance that they don't recognize
• B cells - Produce antibodies to grab anything that your immune system thinks is dangerous and foreign

• Using Food as Medicine
• Understanding the Stress Connection
• Healing Your Gut
• Supporting Your Liver

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AYURVEDA

Ayurveda is the healing system used in India for thousands of years. It is spreading to the United States. We have a resource that talks in detail the reset diet used in Ayurveda medicine, as a way to bring the digestive system back to health. For more information about Ayurveda, see the section on Eastern Medicine. (Added 02/24/2021)

Ayurveda Reset Diet (2021) by Vatsala Sperling, Ph.D. (Publisher: Healing Arts Press) (Added 02/24/2021)

Book Review:

The author, Vatsala Sperling, Ph.D. grew up in a home where food was grown and mealtimes and food were treasured. Food needs to be eaten with reverence, mindfully awareness, knowledge, and refinement. It is stated that overindulgence in rich foods will make you sick. Three steps are outlined in the Ayurveda diet lifestyle.

• Withholding or eliminating problematic food
• Fasting on water to flush and cleanse the digestive system
• Simplifying food intake to one extremely simple, light, and easy to digest food.

• Emotions
• Exercise level
• Food intake
• Living conditions
• Our environment
• Our thoughts

• Fasting on only water on day one. On day two, fasting only on water and herb teas. This helps to flush out old remnants, impacted fecal matter, and germs that are harmful. It helps to rebalance the bacteria in our gut for the week.
• Isolating food by only eating one type of food at a time, to simplify digestion and allowing the body to fully absorb all the nutrients in a particular food (known as mono-diet)
• Mixing foods from various food groups in a sensible way. (Note: Different food groups have different digestive requirements.)

• One, identify the main food groups
• Two, learn food combinations
• Three, lean the roles of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and fats

This resource gives complete details on how to prepare for this diet (cleaning up the kitchen), to implement the Auyrvedic reset diet, which can be done over several different time frames. The Vatsala Sperling addresses special situations, like how to deal with sugar as well as caffeine withdrawal, changes for people with type 2 diabetes, and etc. Suggestions are provided on how to prepare vegetables, and etc. What we eat, how we eat it, and how we absorb the nutrients, all of this plays a major role in health. Finally, it is like both water and food have a soul and properties that we may not be aware of. This resource includes notes and an index. (Added 02/24/2021)

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BACK PAIN

After hearing about two disastrous back surgery operations which left the patient unable to walk and needing to use a wheel chair, it was important to research back pain. In a number of instances, those suffering from back pain, they underwent back surgery. One alarming statistic that appears is that only 40% of the back surgeries are successful. What about the 60% that was not successful? We have one resource written by Jesse Cannone, who himself experienced back pain, was successful in treating it, and how he utlized non-surgical methods to deal with back pain causes. (Added 10/29/2015)

Book on Back Pain:

The 7-Day Back Pain Cure: How thousands of people got relief without doctors, drugs, or surgery (2011) by Jesse Cannone. (Publisher: www.losethebackpain.com)

Book Review:

Jesse Cannone covers various strategies to identify the causes of back pain. He covers about the various types of back pain and short term and long term strategies to identify and remove the underlying causes. Two people can experience the same pain but have different causes. He also covers the general protocol used by conventional medicine to treat back pain, starting with a physician/doctor, moving on to an orthopedist or back specialist, and etc. Generally, practitioners will view the problem from their perspective and the training they have. Pain is actually a signal that something is amiss and a message. Back pain does not necessarily mean that something is wrong with the back. Back pain is generally found to have three causes. They are:

• unbalanced muscles
• diet
• mental stress

The author makes a point of covering the roles of various medical specialists starting with the physician or medical doctor, moving onto the orthopedic specialist, chiropractor, physical therapist, accupuncturist, and massage therapist.

Basically, in focusing on the causes for back pain, it is important to realize the interconnectedness of the mind, the body, and diet. This includes dealing with excesses, deficiencies, and stagnation. This is true for all health ailments. In treating pack pain, the author spells out short term and long term strategies. See the table below:

In summary, all back pain is ultimately caused by one or more of three factors:

1. Excess (too much)
2. Deficiency (too little)
3. Stagnation

The book lists resources. The author makes references to online videos to explain in more detail in issues relating to back pain. Before undergoing back surgery with its low rate of success, read this book for safer alternatives. (Added 10/29/2015)

Website for Jesse Cannone and Losethebackpain website

For more information about Jesse Cannone and back pain videos, the website address is: www.losethebackpain.com. (Added 10/29/2015)

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BIOFILMS

The concept of biofilm is interesting one to explore especially when standard medical protocols don't work effectively. It is about bacteria that grows out of control and causes harm. We have one resource that addresses this topic. (Added 03/23/2018)

Book on Biofilms:

Combating Biofilms: why your antibiotic and antifungals fail (2014) by James Schaller, MD, MAR and Kimberly Mountjoy, MS. (Publisher: International Infectious Disease Press) (Added 03/23/2018)

Book Review:

In this book, a different perspective is offered as to why current medical protocols may not be working effectively. The authors describe biofilm as the egg white coating surrounding the yolk. This applies to bacterial strains, a number of them that are a major factor in lyme disease, chronic sinusitis, yeast infections, wounds, ear infections, gum disease, intestinal disease, bad breath, cystic fibrosis, and implants. These biofilms create a layer called "slime", play a role in infections, and uncontrolled growth. It grows in the following stages:

• Stage one: intial attachment of individual bacterial
• Stage two: irreversible attachment
• Stage three: maturation I
• Stage four: maturation II
• Stage five: dispersion

Any foreign bacteria can develop as a biofilm. It can grow on plastic, metal, or ceramic surfaces. This indicates potential problems for medical devices used for testing or are in contact with the body like a catheter. What the authors indicate is that each biofilm is unique and needs treatment tailored to that type of bacteria. Biofilms are not the same for each infection. New and mature biofilms are not the same, either. Furthermore, a one blanket approach will not work and in a number of instances, more than one treatment approach is needed. Different treatment approaches are needed for new and mature biofilms even if they are the same bacteria. It is important, too, to do retestng to verify that the biofilm issue has been addressed. While some of the standard pharmaceuticals and antibiotics can address biofilms, a number of other substances can be used such as herbs, enzymes, plant based sources, and essential oils. Biofilm infections need:

• Need multiple approaches to prevent the spread and seeding of infections
• Need to destroy the biofilms by different mechanisms and expose them to the immune system
• Start with low dosages of biofilm tools as there is usually massive inflammation, increase the dosage gradually (don't want to spread the infection)
• Treatment may need to be done every other day
• There is no one single master biofilm destroy, though there are some that are able to target a number of infections, instead of a specific infection

Biofilms are not a minor matter. Biofilm infections are the number one cause of death in children under the age of six. A number of health conditions are affected by biofilms. They are:

• Chronic sinusitis
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Ear infections
• Gum disease
• Implants
• Intestinal disease
• Lyme disease (Lyme disease has tough biofilms.)
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis (TB) - (TB is a major world wide killer. People with HIV are much more vulnerable to TB.)
• Wounds

There a number of substances that can address biofilms. Most listed target specific biofilms. A few are able to address more than one type of biofilm. Here are a few:

• Allicin (in garlic) - diminishes biofilm formation
• Azithromycin (Zithromax) - affects the ATP in bacteria, decreasing bacterial levels
• Erythritol - a sugar that is able to reduce plaque growth
• Eugenol - a powerful biofilm agent and it is able to disrupt bacterial communication
• Linalool ("wood of the aloe") - it is able to inhibit the growth of candida albicans (a yeast)
• Reserpine - able to stop the klebsiella pneumonaie biofilm
• RNAIII Inhibiting Enzyme (RIP) - an enzyme that decreases staph infections and a number of other functions
• Zylitol - decreases dental plaque

This book gives a general overview about biofilms, how prevalent they are, and the role that they play in disease and health conditions. It is more for patient education and not a substitute for qualified medical care. As we become more aware of the shortcomings of the standard American health protocols or western medicine (generally allopathic medicine), one answer is biofilms. Furthermore, the authors specify that the three major players in American health care are:

• One, the U.S. government
• Two, the drug companies
• Three, health insurance companies

The fourth and probably the most important player is the healer, the trained and educated medical professional. They are not being given recognition, the respect, and the role that they deserve to have. This book includes references, and the appendix includes additional references to Eugenol. (Added 03/23/2018)

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BIOELECTRICITY (EARTHING)

While we understand the importance of nutrition on health, our bodies also have electrical qualities. It can be considered electronic biology. Surprisingly, being in direct touch with bare feet with the earth can also calm down our bodies and affect the electrical electrons roaming in our bodies. We have an excellent resource titled Earthing that addresses the beneficial benefit of all of us being in direct touch with the earth. The earth can provide "safe" electrical energy that is soothing and calming to our bodies. (Added 05/02/2023)

Earthing: the most important health discovery ever!, second edition (2014) by Clinton Ober, Stephen T. Sinatra, MD, and Martin Zucker. (Publisher: Basic Health Publications, Inc.) (Added 05/02/2023)

Book review:

In this resource written by three authors, Clinton Ober, Stephen T. Sinatra, MD, and Martin Zucker. They have found that our earth can provide us with healing properties, by having our bare feet being in touch with the soil or earth. The first author, Clinton Ober, is a pioneer in the cable TV industry, who uncovered the real health benefits from "Earthing". The second author, the late Stephen T. Sinatra, MD, was a Connecticut cardiologist who had an interest in electromedicine. He saw the connection with being in touch with the earth and cardiovascular health. The third author, Martin Zucker, is a veteran health-writer. Clinton Ober went on to develop various products to enable people's bodies to be in touch with the earth or be grounded.

The benefits of connecting with the earth include:

• Accelerated healing from injuries and surgery
• Dynamic blood flow improvement to better supply of nutrients and oxygen to the cells and tissues
• Improved sleep
• Increased energy
• Rapid reduction of inflammation
• Reduced stress
• Reduction or elimination of chronic pain

The table highlights some of the major concepts pertaining to earthing:

Besides using the term earthing, this can also be referred to as being bioelectrical or electrical biochemical. Interestingly, the Native Americans knew about the benefit of running around barefoot on the ground. This resource cover the various types of devices and tools that help with grounding. Grounding will not interfere with medications. It can reduce the need for medications. Earthing or grounding can help with nervous system disorders. An office with computers that incorporated grounding, employee productivity went up. One chapter covers various stories from people who benefitted from grounding. Being in direct contact with the earth can help with a number of health issues.

The appendices include:

• Appendix A: Physics of Earthing Simplified
• Appendix B: Technical Notes on Grounding and Earthing Methods
• Appendix C: Caution: Earthing and Medication
• Appendix D: The Earthing Institute
• Appendix E: Symptom Checklist and Progress Log
• Appendix f: Earthing in Earlier Times and Indigenous Cultures
• Appendix G: Earthing Research

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Bioidentical Hormones

When Juan Ponce de León went looking for the fountain of youth and health, he thought it would be in a physical location. However, the first resource by Suzanne Somers, she has written a book that specifies the fountain of youth and health is in our bodies, in our hormones. Her book, Ageless, explains in detail from a number of practitioners on how bioidentical hormones can help us retain our health as we become older, along with major lifestyle changes and practices. It also covers an explanation on what the difference is between anti-aging medicine versus traditional and western (allopathic) medicine. The second resource provides more direct technical information about hormones in readable language, their benefits and issues if it a person is low. It covers both men and women. As women have more complex hormonal systems, addressing their hormes is a more complex process. For more information on hormones, check the section covering hormonal health.

Both authors cover the shortcomings with synthetic hormones. They address the health benefits associated with using bioidentical hormones and their ability to postpone the aging process. We might have fewer people in our nursing homes if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy became part of standard medical protocol in the United States. For women whose behavior is extreme, it might pay to check their hormonal health and levels. (Added 07/14/2015, updated 03/14/2016)

Books on Bioidentical Hormones:

Ageless: the naked truth about bioidentical hormones (2006) by Suzanne Somers. (Publisher: Crown Publishers)

Bioidentical hormones made easy: Look great! Feel great! Have better sex! (2011) by Y.L. Wright, MA. (Publisher: www.Lulu.com) (Added 03/14/2016)

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BLOOD TESTING

We have a resource that covers in detail what functional blood chemistry analysis (FBCA) is and how it differs from western medicine's blood testing protocol. (Added 04/13/2020)

Books on Blood Testing:

Know Your Blood, Know your Health: prevent disease and enjoy vibrant health through functional blood chemistry analysis (2020) by Kristin Grayce McGary. (Publisher: Findhorn Press)

Book Review:

Kristin Grayce McGary, LAc, MAc, CFMP®, CST-T, CLP started experiencing health problems while a college pre-med student. She began a long process of getting to the root of her health issues, and eventually switched to an Asian medical school in Arizona. This author's approach is that health issues can be identified before they progress into full blown disease. It turns out that subclinical health issues are asymptomatic. At this stage of health decline, the subclinical phase, that is the time where lifestyle and other interventions can be implemented, to prevent the progression becoming full blown, into a much more serious health issue. When it becomes a much more serious health issue, we see complications.

Throughout the book the author addresses our bodies as being a garden and the medical care providers as our gardeners. The objective is optimum and functional health for all of us. What functional blood chemistry analysis can do is identify issues before they become full blown disease states and with complications.

The typical blood tests give readings where is generally now a full blown disease state. Other shortcomings of western medicine is the inadequate amount of time doctors/physicians have with their patients and the testing limits imposed by health insurance companies, the pharmaceutical industry, (and what the policies will cover or will not cover). The issue with a number of pharmaceuticals is that they tend to mask symptoms and not correct the underlying cause. What is also pointed out by the author is the western blood test ranges displayed is based on a small group of patients who are moderately to severely ill. The ranges listed for FBCA is based on the results of people who are healthy and fully functional. Follow-up is part of the functional blood chemistry analysis approach and with western medicine, we often don't see follow-up taking place. Furthermore, the treatment approach for functional medicine focuses on diet and nutrition.

This resource covers blood sugar issues. Some of the nutrition information being dished out to people with blood sugar issues, some of this information is actually incorrect information. Information is provided on which foods are better for those suffering from diabetes and have pre-diabetes. In fact, the author also list issues with metformin, a drug commonly prescribed for type two diabetes.

Futhermore, a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner can identify the processes that are occuring within the body from the FBCA testing. It emphasizes that each one of us are unique biochemically, and the cookie cutter approach for medical care is basically ineffective. One type of health issue has to do with our thyroids. The author indicates that the whole story regarding thyroid health is much more complex than just measuring T3 and T4 levels. She recommends the following thyroid tests:

• Free Triidothyronine, Serum
• Free Thyroxine Index
• Revise T3, Serum
• T3 Uptake
• T4, Free (Direct)
• Thyroglobulin, Antibody
• Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Ab
• Thyroxine (T4)
• Triidothyronine (T3)
• TSH

Various minerals are covered and the role these minerals play, along with electrolytes. Bone health is addressed. A number of other nutrients are needed in addition to calcium for bone health. Hyrdration, exercise, sleep, and keeping stress down to a healthy level, all are important to optimum health.

Below is a table highlighting the types of blood testing that functional blood chemistry analysis supports:

The author also covers other tests, the pros and cons, such as the

• Genetic Testing
• Hair analysis test
• Heavy Metal Testing (done with specific agents)
• Hormone Testing (needs 11 saliva samples over a 30 day period)
• Stool Testing (uses Doctor's Data)

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BONE HEALTH

In addressing the issue of nutritional medicine, an important component is our bone health. Statistics reported in recent studies done around the world are worth noticing. Reduced bone health causes 8.9 million fractures per year. This number is staggering. Over 8.9 million fractures take place solely due to inefficient bone health. It is the third type of killers are osteoporosis (also bone) related health issues (following heart disease and cancer). It affects half of the population over 75. It is not just an issue in the United States. It is a problem in United Kingdom and Australia. Healthy bone health is essential to our ability to move around and be active. We have a resource that addresses ways to prevent osteoporosis, a major factor in bone health by Dr. Alan Gaby, MD.

We have a second resource on bone health by Pamela Levin, RN. (Added 12/05/2022, Updated 09/28/2024)

Books on Bone Health:

Perfect Bones: a six-point plan the healthy bones (2002) by Pamela Levin, RN. (Publisher: Celstial Arts) (Added 09/28/2024)

Book review:

As more of us become older, questions start appearing about the status of our bone health. Pamela Levin has written a detailed resource covering the multiple roles various organs and nutrients play in bone health. Bones are ten percent of our bodies. The key point is to provide our bodies the basic building blocks also known as nutrients needed for bone health. While women are at a higher risk, it also affects men, too. The best way to treat osteoporosis is through diet. It is also important to avoid sources that can interfere with maintaining bone health.

What is bone? The bone has three components. They are:

• The outside part of the bone is hard and dense.
• The second layer in our bones is soft and spongy.
• The third layer is like a sap tree, and it contains marrow. The marrow has a number of functions. It manufactures red blood cells that deliver oxygen to our cells and manufactures antibodies.

• One, basic concepts pertaining to bone health (See Table One)
• Two, a number of organs are involved in supporting bone health. (See Table Two)
• Three, a number of nutrients are needed for bone health. That includes minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. (See Table Three)
• Four, our hormonal and endocrine system plays a major role in bone health. (See Table Four)
• Five, environmental factors affect bone health. (See Table Five)

Table One addresses basic concepts pertaining to bone health (out of five).

Table Two addresses the role of organs in supporting bone health (out of the five).

A number of nutrients are needed in the right proportions for bone health. This is the third table out of the five.

This is the fourth table out of the five needed for bone health.

This is the fifth table out of the five needed for bone health. It covers environmental factors, both external and internal.

The author comes up with a six-point plan for healthy bone health. It is:

• One: Healthy Connective Tissue
• Two: Sufficient Minerals and their Vitamins Helpers
• Three: Essential Fatty Acids and the Ability to Metabolize Them
• Four: A Balanced Hormonal System
• Five: Proper Digestive, Elimination, and Muscular Activity
• Six: A Clean Environment and Health Immune System

This review just highlights some of the issues regarding bone health. One comment that was made in the introduction was that there are 84 separate clues that the body is "robbing" from our bones to address deficiencies and imbalances. It is best to enable the body to repair its own bones when possible. There are issues with surgical replacement of bones and their drawbacks.

Seven principles of clinical nutrition are listed in table one. Issues about supplements are addressed. Supplements based on whole foods are better absorbed by the body. The reason is that whole food sources include ingredients that much easily absorbed by our bodies and they have a "life". This resource highlights or includes two companies that are based on whole foods and herbs. It is important to use evidence-based medicine. While bone issues affect women, it can also affect men. While hip fractures can be treated, the aftermath of these hip fractures do cause serious issues. The author also addresses issues on testing for bone health. A functioning and healthy digestive system is essential as well as regular exercise.

Nutritional supplementation is covered in detail and why food sources of nutrients are better than synthetic sources. They are not the same. Bones do need a number of nutrients in the right proportion. This book also covers which sources are therapeutically better. This resource includes a glossary, appendices, endnotes, bibliography, and an index. (Added 09/28/2024)

Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis: every woman's essential guide (1994) by Alan Gaby, MD. (Publisher: Three Rivers Press) (Added 12/05/2022)

Book review:

Everyone's bone health is part of everyone's overall health. What is good for our bones is also good for our heart, the skin, the breasts, the stomach, and even crucial for future generations. This is a problem for women as 1.2 million women suffer fractures each year as a result of osteoporosis. The author, Dr. Alan Gaby, MD, discusses ways in how this can be prevented and in a number of cases, reversed. A number of nutrients play a role in bone health, as well as our hormones. Pollution in our environments, especially heavy metals that include aluminum, cadmium, lead, tin, these substances affect our bone health. The author mentions acid rain as well as the use of food additives added to processed foods. The high per capita consumption of sugar in the American diet means that a number of nutrients are lacking/missing in our diets.

This book addresses nutritional approaches to the issues mentioned in this book review. At the time this book was written, it addresses the biases against nutritional medicine, even from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This book also focuses on more of the health issues women encounter, including breast cancer. While this book was written some 30 years, it does explain some of the issues addressing bone health. This book includes an index. There is more current information by Dr. Alan Gaby, MD is his book called Nutritional Medicine, which is more of a textbook. (Added 12/05/2022)

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BRAIN

This section covers information relating to our brain and brain's health. We have two resources covering this topic. One is written by Dr. Daniel G. Amen, MD. The second one focuses on the impact grains, carbohydrates, and sugar have on the brain by Dr. Perlmutter, MD. A third resource by Dr. Jay Lombard and Carl Germano addresses brain health and some of the major brain health conditions. (Added 08/08/2013) (updated 07/20/2015, 01/11/2023)

Books on the Brain:

Use Your Brain to Change Your Age: secrets to look, feel, and think younger every day (2012) by Daniel G. Amen, MD. (Publisher: Crown Archetype) (Added 08/08/2013)

Book Review:

What is helpful about this book by Dr. Daniel G. Amen, MD, a psychiatrist, is that it talks about prevention and ways to keep our brains along with our bodies healthy. Dr. Amen uses SPECT, a diagnostic imaging tool that takes pictures of the brain. Basic lifestyle changes that promote life long brain and body health really needs to begin in childhood. It can go a long way towards protecting the health of our brains and bodies. It is important, too, to identify those with ADHD and learning disabilities. These individuals tend to develop other health problems. This book includes a number of case studies/stories.

The author says that it is important to know your numbers, the numbers that identify the status of your health. Below is a list:

• apolipoprotein E genotype test
• average number of hours slept each night
• BMI (body mass index)
• C-reactive protein
• calories needed/calories spent
• cholesterol
• complete blood count
• ferritin (iron)
• folic acid and vitamin B12 levels
• general metabolic panel with fasting blood sugar
• HgA1C test for diabetes (measures blood sugar over several months)
• homocysteine
• lipid panel
• number of fruits and vegetables eaten daily
• syphilis and HIV screenings
• testosterone
• thyroid levels
• Vitamin D level
• waist-to-height ratio

• keeps the digestive track moving
• reduce risk of cancer
• reduces cholesterol
• reduces high blood pressure

• ADD
• Alzheimers, increased risk
• anxiety
• depression
• obesity
• suicide

1. Eat high quality calories, and not too many of them
2. Drink plenty of water and avoid liquid calories
3. Eat high-quality lean protein
4. Eat "smart" (low glycemic, high fiber) carbohydrates
5. Limit fat consumption to healthy fats, especially those containing omega-3s
6. Eat natural foods of many different colors to boost antioxidants
7. Cook with brain healthy herbs and spices

• Boost sexuality
• Eases anxiety
• Helps mood
• Fights depression
• Helps prevent, delay, and reduce the onset of cognitive impairment that comes with dementia, aging, and Alzheimer's
• Helps short term memory
• It increases circulation
• Promotes learning and memory
• Strengthens the brain

• Anxious
• Compulsive
• Impulsive
• Impulsive-Compulsive
• Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
• Sad or Moody
• Temporal Lobe
• Toxic

Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth About Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar, Your Brain's Silent Killers (2013) by David Perlmutter, MD. (Publisher: Little, Brown, and Company)

Book Review:

David Perlmutter, MD discusses the role grains, carbohydrates, and sugar have on the brain. During the course of his practice, Dr. Perlmutter has seen that his patients were getting sicker when drugs were utilized to address specific symptoms. However, when his patients removed certain foods from their diet, their health improved. Most of the ill health he was seeing in his patients were due to their diets, especially with the high intake of carbohydrates which include sugar and wheat. This affects insulin levels. Dr. Perlmutter believes that as much as 40% of the population cannot properly process gluten and the remaining 60% of the population is harmed in some way by gluten. Many symptoms disappear after the removal of gluten in the diet. Gluten and a high carbohydrate diet stimulate inflammation. Inflammation has been found to be the cornerstone a number of many degenerative diseases. Digestive disorders and allergies are easier to spot and identify. However, it is not as easy to spot inflammation in the brain. When inflammation does not go away, it spreads to the rest of the body. It produces a number of chemicals that are harmful to our cells. Inflammation increases cytokines levels. Unchecked inflammation can lead to obesity, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Elevated cytokines levels are found in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and autism. This can result in any one or more of the following conditions:

• asthma
• Alzheimer's
• cancer
• cognitive decline
• coronary artery disease
• diabetes
• peripheral neuropathy
• vascular disease

• Chronic high blood sugar levels
• Eating too many carbohydrates
• Low fat diet that minimizes cholesterol intake
• Obesity
• Undiagnosed sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley

Dr. Perlmutter covers the role of DHA, a type of omega 3 essential fatty acids.

• 2/3's of the brain is fat, and 1/4 of the fat is DHA
• DHA is an important regulator of inflammation
• DHA regulates gene expression for Brain Derived Neutrophic Factor (BDNF). BDNF controls development of brain cells and protects existing neurons.

Dr. Perlmutter, along with a treatment plan, recommends the following supplements to improve brain health. They are:

• alpha-lipoic acid
• coconut oil
• DHA
• probiotics
• resveratrol
• tumeric
• vitamin D

This resource explains the interaction of gluten, carbohydrates, and sugar with the brain and our health. He explains the testing protocol and the treatment plan which includes diet, exercise, and adequate sleep. It includes recipes, notes, and an index. (Added 07/20/2015)

Website for Dr. David Perlmutter, MD

For more information about Dr. David Perlmutter and his books, his website address is: www.drperlmutter.com. (Added 07/20/2015)

The Brain Wellness Plan: Breakthrough medical, nutritional and immune boasting therapies to prevent and treat: depression, Alzheimer's Disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, Lou Gehrig's Disease (1997) by Dr. Jay Lombard, Board Certified Neurologist and Carl Germano, RD, CNS, LDN. (Publisher: Kensington Books) (Added 01/11/2023)

Book review:

The brain oversees multiple functions from our memory, our emotions, to even our sex drive. Within the brain, are a number of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters. Dr. Lombard, a board certified neurologist, and Carl Germano, a certified nutritionist, they have addressed various nutrients needed for optimum brain health as well as for a number of brain health conditions. It turns out that there is a collaborative relationship between the brain and the immune system.

This book covers the following brain disorders each in their own chapter. It includes: ADHD, Alzheimers, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson's. Some overview is provided about these disorders and the nutritional support that they need.

Below is a table covering some of the main ideas addressed on brain health.

This resource does an excellent job explaining the roles and benefits of nutrients on brain health and in specific brain disorders. It also offer explainations of how some of these nutrients perform in the brain. In some instances, we can have too much as well too low levels. It includes resources, food sources for specified nutrients, references and index. (Added 01/11/2023)

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BREATHING

Generally, most of us take breathing for granted, something we don't think about. Behind breathing is the importance of oxygen to our health and to our cells. We cannot live without oxygen. Oxygen can be considered a nutrient that is even more important than water and other nutrients that are key to experiencing optimum health. We have a resource on the importance of breathing as well as the various methods and exercises that we can all implement to enhance our body's intake of oxygen through breathing. Proper breathing brings oxygen to our cells and helps to remove excess carbon dioxide and other wastes. This emphasis on healthy breathing is one activity that all of us can strive to develop and work on. (Added 06/26/2019)

Book on Breathing:

One Half Breath at a Time: discover how to turn stress and anxiety into calm ease, productive power, and joy with breath-centered practices (2018) by Joseph R. Roberson. (Publisher: Paper Tiger Press)

Book review:

This resource on breathing and its benefits has been written by Joseph R. Roberson. He has been a yoga instructor a number of years and has taught a hundreds of students. The mind and body connection is real. What proper breathing along with exercises can assist is enabling us to deal with stress more effectively, reduce our sense of pain, react to crises in a level headed manner, and even feel and develop a sense of peace. By not breathing properly, this can facilitate health issues progressing into a disease state. The benefits of proper breathing include:

• access to intuition and innate wisdom
• better communication
• better sleep
• effortless weight loss
• increased capacity for coping with stress
• increased focus and concentration
• more courage
• more energy
• resilience
• sense of calm serenity

Furthermore, when confronted with stress and fear of pain or being in an environment that makes us feel unsafe, most of us tend to tighten up, furthering adding to the pain as well as stopping or slowing down our breathing. With proper breathing techniques, this can enable us to slow down, and deliver more oxygen to our cells.

With our current economic environment, this now requires continuous and self-directed learning. Career changes as well as job changes are now frequent and common. This increases our exposure to stress, especially when changing jobs and careers. Symptoms of chronic stress are:

• anxiety
• confusion
• depression
• fatigue
• fear
• sleep patterns, disrupted
• worry

Breathing in a healthy way is covered by Ayurveda medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Humorism. It does play a major role in enabling us to be and feel healthier. This author is interested in bringing attention to the health benefits of healthy breathing and using this tool for health creation or creating healthier bodies. This resource offers detailed information on the dangers of excessive stress on health and how breathing can enable us to cope more effectively. The book ends with a discussion about habits and it is really about a lifestyle change and it needs to be done in stages or gradually. Habits are a more challenging type of learning. It helps to have motivation and a goal.

The resources specifies ways to assess your breathing, the physiology behind breathing, and types of breathing exercises. This book includes resources, notes, and a bibliography and would be an useful addition to both a professional and personal health library. (Added 06/26/2019)

Note: For more information about yoga, see the section on Yoga.

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BROMINE (CHEMICAL)

Bromine is a chemical that has been added to the food supply and other substances. We have an article that discusses the medical issues associated with bromine. (Added 07/02/2012)

Article on Bromine:

The Everyday Food Additive that Toxifies Us all by Dr. David Brownstein, MD (Published in Dr. David Brownstein's Natural Way to health: Achieving & Maintaining Your Optimal Health, January 2009, vol. 2, issue 1, pages 1-7)

Article review:

• Used in prescription medications, especially in medications used to treat asthma, bowel, and bladder dysfunction
• Used in bakery products, especially bread, as an anti-caking agent
• Used as a fire-retardant, known as polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE); added to a number of common household items such as electronic devices, clothing, draperies, carpeting, upholstery, mattresses, and baby products

• Stop ingesting bromide-containing food, drink, and medicine, using organic foods
• Limiting intake of bakery products that contain bromine
• Maintain adequate iodine levels
• Use unrefined salt as part of the diet
• Exercise with sweating helps the body to release bromine

It is a readable and informative article with references.(Added 07/02/2012, Updated 07/04/2013)

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CANCER

Cancer is a growing health issue, especially among children. There are a number of resources to read regarding cancer. In the cases of cancer, it is essential that the patient works with a knowledgeable healthcare provider or clinic. One resouce is a book written by Dr. Allan Spreen, MD with Roni Enten. We have included a book review. Two additional resources on cancer are included. One is a publication written by Ralph W. Moss, Ph.D. called “Questioning Chemotherapy” and the second is an article written by Dr. Russell L. Blaylock, MD about how nutrition can help those dealing with cancer. A fourth resource on cancer is Knockout by Suzanne Somers. In this book, Suzanne Somers interviews health care practitioners who are knowledgeable about cancer prevention and/or treating cancer. (Added 11/26/2011) (Updated 05/05/2012, Updated 08/16/2012)

Resources on Cancer:

Tomorrow's Cancer Cures Today: 25 secret therapies from around the world (2010) by Allan Spreen, MD and Roni Enten (Publisher: Health Sciences Institute)

Book review:

The authors note that nutritionally deficient diets and environmental toxins are responsible for 95% of all cancers. Dr. Allan Spreen, MD lists a number of remedies that can help the body heal and detoxify, using substances that cultures all over the world found that helped people to get better and well in quite a few instances. A brief background and history of the various treatments are provided. The treatment types covered include diet, food sources, herbal/plant sources, mushroom, nutritional supplementation, and miscellaneous.

The first approach includes diet: the Budwig Diet, the Gerson Diet, and the macrobiotic diet.

Another approach include various food sources: Eggplant Cure, or BEC-5 (effective for skin cancer), Graviola, sodium bicarbonate or baking soda, turmeric (a spice), Laetrile, citrus peel with d-limonene, and MCP ( modified citrus pectin) is a form of pectin.

A third approach includes herbal /plant substances: Chinese Happy Tree (scientific name: Camptotheca acuminata), mistletoe, triphala, oleander, intravenous aloe vera preparation called albarin, cansema, Essiac tea and paw paw.

A fourth approach includes a mushroom grown in Taiwan, antrodia camphorate.

A fifth approach includes nutritional supplementation, intravenous Vitamin C.

The sixth approach, miscellaneous, includes: cesium chloride combined with DMSO, antineoplastons that target cancer cells, and cancer cachexia combined with hydrazine sulfate.

The authors specify which treatments are considered legal or illegal to utilize in the United States. For “illegal” treatments, the book informs us as to where the treatment is available outside the United States. It also recommends a “legal” cancer treatment center using integrative medicine in the United States.)

Questioning chemothery (1995) by Ralph W. Moss, Ph.D. (Publisher: Equinox Press)

Book review:

• Question 1: Will the chemotherapy treatment enable me to live longer? How much longer?
• Question 2: What are the side effects of chemotherapy and its effect on the patient's quality of life? Side effects include hair loss, nausea, mouth sores, vomiting. Other side effects include clogged veins, loss of libido, and damage to the patient's blood profile. Dr. Moss talks about adjuvant chemotherapy, as well. This is additional chemotherapy used in addition to treating the main cancer. How are these side effects treated?
• Question 3: Are single drugs used, or are several drugs used at the same time?
• Question 4: The cost of chemotherapy is addressed. What is the financial impact for the patient and his family, when we include the costs for hospitalization and chemotherapy?
• Question 5: Are there other alternative treatments which include nutrition and diet? Will the wait and see approach work?
• Question 6: Another major question that can be asked, "If you were in my shoes, would you undertake this treatment?"

• One, is to respect the patient and not make them feel bad.
• Two, is the responsibility to listen to the patient and find out what their reactions are to the treatments.
• Three, is to answer truthfully the questions the patient may have, in a language that the patient understands.
• Four, it is important to respect what alternative treatments based on nutrition have to offer, not attack the alternative health practitioners and their approach to patients suffering from cancer.

Nutrition and Medicine can beat cancer by Russell L. Blaylock, MD. (Published in the Blaylock Wellness Report, January 2012, Vol. 9, no. 1, pages 1 to 12)

Article Review:

This article brings us up-to-date on how nutrition can help us overcome cancer through diet and nutritional supplementation. Dr. Russell L. Blaylock, MD talks about specific nutrients, especially nutrients found in vegetables (flavonoids) that can help us overcome cancer.

Dr. Blaylock discusses how cancer cells are different from normal cells. One, they depend upon sugar for their fuel. Two, their chromosomes and DNA are damaged. Three, they are unable to communicate with other cells. And four, cancer cells can divide continuously. For some people, there are genetic factors associated with cancer.

Dr. Blaylock lists nutrients that can help the body repair its DNA. They include: vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, quercetin, ginkgo biloba, resveratrol, curcumin, glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and niacinamide.

The article covers in detail three types of cancer. They are: breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer.

For breast cancer, there are enzymes that promote breast cancer. Soy is not a good food for people experiencing breast cancer. Whereas, flavonoids can inhibit the growth of these cancer cells. DHA found in omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can also inhibit cancer growth.

For prostate cancer, the suggestions made for breast cancer apply to prostate cancer. Milk intake is not good for men experiencing prostate cancer. Men with this type of cancer are found to be low in vitamin D3. Selenium supplementation can reduce prostate cancer by 63%. It is suggested that selenium be combined with the gamma-form of Vitamin E for better results. A diet high in vegetables, healthy fats, and low in sugar and bad fats will go a long way in preventing prostate cancer.

For colon cancer, it begins with polyps, a growth of tissue projecting growths within the intestine. Chronic inflammation and free radical generation are factors promoting colon cancer. Vitamin D3 and higher intake of omega-3 fats can help prevent colon cancer. Dr. Blaylock talks about "resistant starch" found in lentils and apples are helpful for colon health. The following nutrients are listed that show promise in dealing with colon cancer: quercetin, hersperdin, silymarin (milk thistle extract), vitamin E (natural, gamma form), mixed carotenoids, white tea, DHA (in omega-3 fatty acid), selenium, n-butyrate, vitamin D3, folate, curcumin, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and vegetables. Dr. Blaylock suggests that people keep their intake of omega-6 oils down, as they promote inflammation. Omega-6 fats are found in: corn, safflower, sunflower, peanut, soybean, and canola oil. Heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, and fluoride are not good for the brain and the body.

Dr. Blaylock indicates that nutritional therapies can be used safely along with chemotherapy. Nutritional therapies reduce the complications associated with chemotherapy. More universities are setting up integrative medical departments that combine more traditional medical practices with nutrition. It is an easy to read, informative, and great article.) (Added 05/04/2012)

Knockout: interviews with doctors who are curing cancer and how to prevent getting it in the first place (2009) by Suzanne Somers. (Publisher: Three Rivers Press)

Book review:

This book explores exciting developments in the treatment of cancer. Suzanne Somer, the actress who played Chrissy in Three's Company, has developed and explored interesting developments, especially in the area of cancer. She is currently an author of 20 books and a cancer survivor who now enjoys excellent health. She interviews doctors who have developed ways of treating cancer. In most cases, chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are not utilized. She also interviews people who provide information that can help us from getting cancer in the first place.

Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski, MD
The first doctor interviewed is Dr. Stanislaw Burzynski, MD. He practices in Houston, Texas and is also a biochemist. One of the observations he made was that the peptides (proteins with 50 or fewer amino acids) and amino acids profile were different in those who did not have cancer and those who did. Peptides have the ability to kill cancer cells without harming or killing normal cells. These peptides work to correct the DNA information found in cells. Dr. Burzynsk calls this group of peptides (also molecules) antineoplastons. These peptides also play a role in memory and slow down the progression of alzheimer's. The peptides system also functions like a second immune system. Cancer is also a disease of information processing between cells.

Dr. Burzynski checks out the patient's genetic makeup. He determines which genes are abnormal via lab results, genes facilitating the growth of cancer. He then determine which antineoplastons to use for the patient and counteract the cancer. Antineoplastons work on about 100 different genes. For 85% of their patients, they have the proper gene signature and 15% do not respond. It helps to turn on genes that fight cancer. Diet and nutritional supplementation are extremely helpful in dealing with cancer, especially in the beginning stages of cancer. For some patients, he will use chemotherapy, however, it is in lower dosages. He is able to reduce tumors. Many of his patients have had chemotherapy and surgery before coming to him. He has to treat the side effects and results of the chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery in addition to the cancer.

Most of the tumors are able to disappear in three to four months. The results also vary with the type of cancer, some more successful than others. As an example, pancreatic cancer is among the worst to treat. Chemotherapy is not good for liver cancer.

Dr. Buzynski talks about the genome. It contains 22 thousand genes. Generally, we use just a small amount of them. As we get older, fewer of these genes are active. To keep cancer from occurring, it is important to keep the genes that prevent cancer becoming active or turned on. Chemicals, stress, lack of sleep, cigarette smoking, poor diet with foods containing chemicals, all these factors can silence genes. Hormones have a role in regulating gene activity as well. A balanced hormonal system is important, especially to prevent and treat cancer. For prostate cancer, it is important to have the correct type of testosterone; apparently, it is a derivative of testosterone, DHT that causes problems with prostate cancer.

Cancer is actually a combination of numerous types of illnesses and they each have their own genetic signatures. Finally, we hear from Dr. Burzynski's patients that were treated successfully and stayed cancer free for a number of years.

Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, MD
The second doctor interviewed is Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, MD. He practices in New York City. First, in dealing with cancer, it is important to get the gut and digestive system working properly.

Dr. Gonzales met a dentist, Dr. William Donald Kelly, DDS. Dr. Kelly said that all diseases starts in the gut, with poor nutrition, poor absorption, and poor digestion. This dentist used large doses of pancreatic enzymes. Dr. Gonzales was impressed by the successful outcomes experienced by Dr. Kelly's patients. Dr. Gonzales decided to follow the protocol specified by Dr. Kelly.

Basically, the treatment protocol begins with the diet, nutritional supplementation especially enzymes, and detoxification. Diets are tailored to the patient's biochemical makeup.

Dr. Beard was a Scottish embryologist who lived over a 100 years ago. He felt that it was the pancreatic enzymes that provided a defense system against cancer. This was written in a book dated 1911. Detoxification includes coffee enemas, liver flushes, juice fasts, and other methods. Dr. Gonzales explains the benefits of doing a coffee enema. It stimulates certain nerves in the lower bowel, it turns on the parasympathic systems, causing the liver to release all its toxins. He also talks about sympathic systems. Another type of detoxification is doing a liver flush, a five day process. When the liver works better, everything else works better. He mentions electromagnetic radiation and aspartame.

In order to successfully follow Dr. Gonzales' protocol, the patient must be able to eat. Some cancer patients are too sick to eat. Currently, Dr. Gonzales is not able to inject enzymes. They are taken orally. Treatments outcomes are better when the patient has not undergone chemotherapy and radiation. Furthermore, while chemotherapy can shrink tumors; however, it doesn't necessarily prolong life. It works in a few cancers: childhood leukemia, some lymphomas, and testicular cancer.

The costs associated with Dr. Gonzales' treatment is much less than one specified for traditional chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. It includes testimony from patients who have been successfully treated and remain healthy.

Dr. James Forsythe, MD
The third doctor is Dr. James Forsythe, MD. He is both a board certified oncologist and a homeopathic doctor in Nevada. He saw the poor outcomes associated with traditional cancer treatments protocols. He became more interested in alternatives. Dr. Forsythe talks about pawpaw, Poly-MVA, a homeopathic remedy called Salicinium. As far as diet is concerned, no simple sugars for those with cancer. Sugar feeds cancer cell growth. This means no fruit, as well. A test called chemosensitivity test is discussed. This test checks to see which chemotherapy drug is compatible with a specific cancer. The body is self-healing when it has the right tools.

Dr. Julie Taguchi, MD
Dr. Julie Taguchi, MD is Suzanne Somer's personal physician and oncologist in California. She is board certified oncologist and required to offer her patients standard cancer treatment protocol by law in the United States, before suggesting alternatives. It is also called "standard of care". Dr. Taguchi does offer alternatives, including bioidentical hormones.

The next group of doctors and healthcare practitioners Suzanne Somers interviews talk about prevention. This includes ways that people can use to reduce their risk of cancer. They are: Dr. Russell Blaylock, Burton Goldberg, David Schmidt, Dr. Jonathan Wright, Dr. Stephen Sinatra, Dr. Michael Galitzer, and Cristiana Paul.

Dr. Russell Blaylock suggests minimizing intake of red meat, minimizing intake of omega 6 fats, increasing intake of berries, avoid soy foods, flavonoids are good for us, eat the densest vegetables, and drink purified water.

Burton Goldberg informs us that in Israel, they changed the diet given to their milk producing cows. They cut out the hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, and herbicides. In ten years, the rate of breast cancer was significantly reduced in women. He talks about a Dr. Munoz in Tijuana, Mexico who uses immune therapies to treat cancer, called dendritic cell therapy. A Dr. Marty Dayton in Florida combines nutrition with chemotherapy. Mr. Goldberg covers briefly Poly-MVa therapy as a cancer treatment.

Dr. Jonathan Wright, MD talks about the importance of hormonal health to general health and not having cancer. One important hormone among others is DHEA.

Dr. Michael Galitzer, MD says that the whole body needs treatment when dealing with cancer. By the time that there is a lump, the body is quite toxic. He talks about the Budwig diet. It is 2/3 cup of cottage cheese mixed with 6 tablespoons of flaxseed oil, with nuts and berries (no peanuts). He talks about hyperthermia as a treatment for cancer. A program called FIGHT has been proposed by Dr. Gary Gordon, MD. F is for fruits. I is for infections. G is for geopathic stress. H is for hormones. And T is for toxins. It is also important to include EM which stands for emotional and mental states. He also talks about detoxification, which includes saunas, juice fasts, chelation, etc. Colonics are helpful, as well. The lymphathic system also needs to be working properly.

Cristiana Paul, MS
Cristiana Paul, MS is a nutritionist. She put together a chart showing the stages in how cancer develops and the different stages where the body intervenes against the cancer.

According to the chart, cancer cells progress in the following way:

1. Carcinogens enter the body (environmental or dietary).
2. Carcinogens can be safely eliminated; if not eliminated, they can cause DNA damage, result in improper genetic expression, or DNA mutation. The body will try to repair the damaged DNA cells; if not, these cells increase.
3. Precancerous cells are formed, may either die or multiply to form tumors.
4. Cancer cells form tumors and metastasize (spread). New blood vessels are formed to feed the tumors and support the spread of cancerous cells in the body.

Ms. Paul also makes suggestions on ways nutritional supplementation can be made more effective.

Bill Faloon
Bill Faloon, director of Life Extensions Foundation, provides additional information regarding cancer treatment. The first comment made is that surgery to remove a cancerous growth can actually facilitate the spread of cancer, where it mestatasizes elsewhere in the body. When the cancer is present as a tumor, the body is making an effort to contain the cancer. There are methods and treatment options that can be performed to reduce the risk of the cancer spreading throughout the body via surgical removal. He talks about citrus pectin (reduces tumor cell adhesion to blood vessel walls), cimetidine (drug that has anti-cancer activity), PSK (increases NK, natural killer cells), mistletoe (increases NK cells), interleukin-2, cancer vaccines. Surgery in itself is a stressor on the immune system and increases inflammation. Morphine also weakens the immune system. The foundation has a website.

This book is a great resource on understanding the various treatment options other than chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. It also includes options to increase the success of using surgery on removing cancer growths. All the authors emphasize the importance of nutrition. This book includes resources, a bibliography, and an index. (Added 08/16/2012) (Corrected 07/16/2013)

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CANDIDA (YEAST SENSITIVITY)

One of the side effects of antibiotic use is the development of excessive levels of yeast in the body. What happens when there is too much yeast in the body is that when sugar is eaten, this causes the yeast in the body to expand and generate a number of symptoms. It is similar to adding sugar to yeast when making bread. The symptoms vary with each individual. We have two resources covering candida. Dr. William Crook, MD allerted us to the existence of this medicial issue. Jeanne Marie Martin with Zoltan P. Rona, MD wrote a detailed resource about the various issues associated with candida and the treatment approaches needed. (Updated 08/08/2013)

Books on Candida:

Complete Candida Yeast Guide, rev. 2nd ed. by Jeanne Marie Martin with Zoltan P. Rona, MD. (2000) (Publisher:Three Rivers Press)

Book review:

This book provides comprehensive information about candida, a yeast and type of fungus that can grow out of control with the body, and cause a number of serious health issues. Candida is not a minor health issue and for optimum health, it needs to be dealt with. It is a major health issue and it is becoming a hidden epidemic. Those with allergies, viral infections, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, have taken alot of anti-biotics, birth control pills, immunosuppresent drugs, steroids, undergoing excessive stress, and are overworked, they create an imbalance in the bowel and they are more likely to have candida. The spread of candida can lead to infection, inflammation, and chronic disease. The authors discuss the various treatment methods and details which foods to eat and avoid.

Background information on candida:
Mercury in dental fillings have been found to be an immunosuppressive agent, enabling benign candida (yeast) to change into a more invasive (mycelial) form of yeast. This form of yeast unfortunately can spread all over the body, to all of the organs and tissues. It can also cause permeabilty of the bowel area, creating a condition known as the leaky gut. Fungi/yeast by producing mycotoxins can initiate a number of degenerative diseases such as:

• arthritis
• auto-immune disease (there are about a 100 different types of auto-immune diseases, in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues/cells.)
• cancer
• gout
• heart disease

digestive system:

symptoms include bloating, gas, cramps, alternating diarrhea with constipation, or multiple food allergies, and colic and thrush in children

genito-urinary tract:

symptoms for women can include depression, mood swings, bloating, fluid retention, cramps, cravings for sweets, recurrent bladder or vaginal infections and discharge, and low libido. Symptoms for men can include chronic rectal or anal itching, recurrent prostatitis, impotence, genital rashes and jock itch.

nervous system:

symptoms includes abnormal fatigue, spaciness, anxiety, mood swings, drowsiness, memory loss, depression, insomnia, and/or mental fogginess. It can be a factor for autism, hyperactivity, and learning disabilities.

skin:

symptoms include hives, psoriasis, eczema, excessive sweating, acne, dandruff, athlete's foot, white flaky skin, and infections

endocrine system:

may be a factor in hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and with the adrenal glands

1. Grains: wheat, grain flours, pasta, and simple carbohydrates
2. Legumes: white beans, dried split peas
3. Starchy vegetables: corn, eggplant, potatoes, yellow sweet potatoes, iceburg lettuce
4. Meats: sausage, luncheon meats, hot dogs, ground meats, shellfish, and red meat
5. Sugars: sugar, honey, maple syrup
6. Fruits, sweet: bananas, mangoes, melons, oranges, grapes
7. Other: pickles, mushrooms, green olives, baking or nutritional yeast, miso, tempeh

1. Phase I: This diet is designed to ease people into the more strict anti-candida phase II diet.
2. Phase II: This diet is for regular or severe candida.
3. Phase III: This diet is for following the candida treatment, a recovery diet and an immune system boosting diet.
4. Phase IV: This diet is a post-candida treatment diet, and to prevent the reoccurrance of candida.

• apple cider vinegar
• eggs
• honey, maple syrup, fruit concentrate, fruit juice, sweet fruits, and sugar
• lactic acid-fermented vegetables including sauerkraut
• milk
• mushrooms
• soft cheeses
• tamari soy sauce and miso
• tofu and soy products (and popcorn and corn)
• safflower oil
• stevia
• vegetable boullion cubes and vegetable broth powder
• yogurt

The Yeast Connection: a medical breakthrough (1986) by William G. Crook, MD. (Publisher: Professional Books) (Added 08/08/2013)

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CANNABIS

Cannabis is gaining more recognition and acceptance as a plant with a number of medicinal properties. It has been used since ancient times by cultures throughout the world, for ailments that affect both the body and the mind. It was used in Japan at least 10,200 years ago. We have a resource that covers this in detail. We have a second resource that provides more information regarding the use of cannabis, also known as medical marijuana by Micheal Backes. (Added 11/20/2020, Updated 08/08/2023)

Books on Cannabis:

Cannabis Healing: A Guide to the Therapeutic Use of CBD, THC, and other Cannabinoids (2020) by Franjo Grotenhermen, MD. (Publisher: Park Street Press)

Book Review:

Dr. Franjo Grotenherm, MD, is a German physician who is knowledgeable about the various medicinal benefits of cannabis. More and more countries are allowing the use of this cannabis to be used for medicinal purposes. Cannabis is a plant and there are three types:

• c. sativa
• c. indica
• c. ruderalis

The use of cannabis for medical purposes has a long history, and it has been used in a number of countries. The author also cites a number of studies world-wide that show the benefit of cannabis for a wide variety of health issues. Note that there are synthetic versions of cannabis.

There are multiple components of cannabis known as cannabinoids. There are 120 types, divided into ten large groups. They are:

• CBG--cannabigerol
• CBC--cannabichromene
• CBD--cannabidiol
• THC--delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
• CBN--cannabinol
• delta-8-THC--delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol
• CBL--cannabicyclol
• CBE--cannabielsoin
• CBND--cannabinodiol
• CBTL--cannabitriol

The synthetic forms of cannabis include:

• Dronabinol (marketed under Marinol and Syndros in the U.S.)
• Epidiolex (brand name for cannabis rich in CBD)
• Marinol (generic name is dronabinol)
• Nabilone (synthetic form of THC)
• Nabiximols (generic name of a spray to treat spasticity and contains both THC and CBD)
• Sativex (a mouth spray)

• Cutaneous application
• Eaten as a cookie
• Eye drops (for glaucoma)
• Inhalation (with a vaporizer)
• Perfusion (drip)
• Sublingual (used under the tongue)
• Suppositories
• Tea and decoction (need fats with it)

This resource refers to studies being done or have been completed on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. It also includes stories of various individuals who have benefited from using this protocol. Common sense guidelines include starting with a small dose and gradually increasing it. It doesn't necessarily work 100% as each one of us are biochemically unique. It can be used for children, but the author advises that it be reserved for more serious illnesses. It includes some technical terms when it comes to describing a particular health condition and refers to some of the prescription drugs, though the author does specify what some of them mean. A chapter addresses side effects, precautions and contraindications of cannabis. Actually, in many cases, when compairing cannabis with prescription drugs and alcohol, cannabis came out as being safer, safer than using opiates, cocaine, alcohol, tobacco. and benzodiazepines. Actually, the most harmful one is alcohol.

This resource also includes information on how to make a number of products with cannabis. The appendix covers on how to grow this plant, drying the plant, and storing the plant. This resource contains a glossary, references, resources, and an index. (Added 11/20/2020)

Cannabis Pharmacy: the practical guide to medical marijuana (2017) by Michael Backes. (Publisher: Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers)

Book review:

This is definitely a worthwhile guide for any health practitioner or patient interested in the use of medical marijuana or also referred to as cannabis. Cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system. It also talks about the endocannabinoid system (covered elsewhere in this website). The endocannabinoid system is a signaling mechanism throughout the body and responsible for facilitating and maintaining homeostasis. The author makes clear that there are different strains of cannabis and with different effects. As an example, it can affect appetite, regulation of mood, and perception of pain. It can be used for some people and certain conditions. In other words, it is not for everyone and every condition. Below is a table covering specific concepts pertaining to cannabis.

In Dr. Andrew Weil, MD forward in this book, he mentions that western medicine seeks the use of prescription drugs. However, these drugs do not facilitate homeostasis, or balance, in the body. Western medicine also does not seek to identify the underlying cause of illness or health condition. This resource on the use of cannabis or as medical marijuana, it seeks to present a rationale and evidence-based approach to using cannabis to support and restore homeostasis in the body. There is an international organization called International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM).

While cannabis has been used for centuries, it is important to understand that in the 1930's, cannabis was banned in all 48 states (under incomplete information). An international treaty called Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961, it included cannabis. Both of these factors prevented scientific research into the medicinal properties of cannabis. The Farm Bill of 2018 opened the way to grow CBD and hemp as well as easier access to do research.

There are ways to identify each cannabis plant and show the benefits of that specific variety. Also, the author covers growing cannabis plants.

It is also common sense to note that both licit and illicit drugs can be misused, including cannabis. Even cannabis can produce side effects. The dosage has to be in the right range to be effective. As a plant medium, cannabis can deteriorate over time and needs the proper storage environment. It contains notes, recommended reading, glossary, and an index. It is definitely worth reading. (Added 08/08/2023)

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CARNIVORE DIET (Meat and Fish Diet)

We are being exposed to a number of different types of diets that can be geared to individuals. We have a resource that deals with a high level of animal protein diet called the carnivore diet. The author explains that this was an original diet that our ancestors ate. (Added 08/17/2024)

Book on the Carnivore Diet:

The Carnivore Code (2020) by Paul Saldino, MD. (Publisher: Fundamental Press) (Added 07//2024)

Book review:

As the word lectins becomes better known, it is a feature that plants have to protect themselves from easily being eaten, easily digested, and in some cases, toxic. However, this feature is not found in animal and fish meats. Dr. Saladino, MD indicates that that early humans sought food high in fats and they liked for animals with the most fat. This was especially true of larger animals. Our metabolic energy runs more efficiently on fat or carbohydrates and uses protein as building blocks. As our early ancestors ate more meat and fat, their brains became bigger. There appears to be nutritional benefits in eating meat. It has a higher nutritional quality and gives people more energy. Animal foods have the same operating system as humans.

The hypothesis behind the carnivore code or diet is:

• Anthropological data
• More energy from animal based foods
• Superior nutrient content of animal food

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Chem Trails

After seeing references being made to Chem Trails or chemtrails and changes in our weather patterns, some of them quite serious, the following resource was read. It is a technical book. However, the research is quite detailed and written by people who understand the science behind chem trails and our laws that are addressing these issues. (Added 05/16/2016)

Chemtrails, HAARP, and the Full Spectrum Domininance of Planet Earth (2014) by Elana Freeland. (Publisher: Feral House) (Added 05/16/2016)

Book Review:

This book explains the issues behind chemtrails, the cloud-like lines like strings crisscrossing the sky, the result of military and commercial jets. It includes a brief glossary, bibliography, index, and footnotes.

What is in these string-like clouds? Why are they there in our skies? It is much more than to change our climate. What is the impact on human health of these chemical trails, on our environment, our soils and crops? Who is sponsoring this program, and why? Are chemtrails just in the United States or are they worldwide? These are questions all of us need to be asking.

The author explains how HAARP, the High-Frequency Active Auroral Research Project, works in tandem with chemtrails to cause changes in our atmosphere and extreme weather like earthquakes and hurricanes like Katrina and Sandy. This book covers issues relating to our atmosphere, physics, geology, radiation, U.S. laws, biological weapons, directed energy weapons (DEWs), and medical issues. Unenforced laws written to protect our environment include:

• Alaska Endangered Species Act
• Clean Air Act
• Clean Water Act
• National Environment Policy Act
• Noise Control Act
• OSHA
• The Superfund

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CHOLESTEROL

As a number of Americans have been placed on statin drugs to reduce their cholesterol levels, we have a book written by Jonny Bowden, a nutritionist, and Dr. Stephen Sinatra, MD that addressed as to what is the true picture regarding cholesterol. (Added 02/01/2015)

Book on Cholesterol:

The Great Cholesterol Myth: why lowering your cholesterol won't prevent heart disease and the statin-free plan that will (2012) by Jonny Bowden and Stephen Sinatra, MD. (Publisher: Fair Winds Press)

Book Review:

Jonny Bowden, an nutritionist with a Ph.D, and Dr. Stephen Sinatra, MD, an integrative cardiologist, have written a book that focuses on cholesterol issues and addresses the hoopla surrounding the "need to reduce cholesterol" to improve heart or cardiovascular health. The premise has been that lowering cholesterol levels improves our cardiovascular health and the authors explain that statin drugs, while they can lower our cholesterol levels, at the same time, this does not improve heart or cardiovascular health. In doing so, they cover issues regarding inflammation, the consumption of fats and sugar. They present information on what can be done to improve cardiovascular (heart) health, including nutritional supplementation.

Definition and Role of Cholesterol

First, the authors define what is cholesterol. It is a waxy substance needed as:

• a component of our cell membranes, including the brain cells
  • Enables the cell membranes to be tough enough to keep out foreign substances
  • Enables the cell membranes to be flexible and pliable to enable communication between cells
• helps fight infections and helps the immune system
• helps neutralize toxins produced by bacterial activity
• is needed for memory
• is used to make vitamin D, sex hormones, and bile acids needed for digestion
• most of the cholesterol is actually manufactured by the liver, rather than from the diet

The authors lists tests that can more accurately present what is really going on regarding cholesterol, especially measuring type LDL Type B. Cholesterol travels as lipoproteins and blood tests measure the lipoproteins. Tests include:

• Berkeley
• Lipoprint
• LPP (Lipoprotein Particle Profile)
• NMR LipPorfile
• VAP (Vertical Auto Profile)

Issues with Statin Drugs

What are the issues associated with statin drugs designed to lower cholesterol levels? One, the research is faulty on the benefits of statin drugs. Statin drugs depletes the body's stores of co-enzyme Q-10, increases the risk for cancer and diabetes, and interferes with the serotonin receptors in the brain cells. The authors covers a number of studies and explains their results and shortcomings. Games have been played with how the statistics are presented. Two, there is one case that the authors specify where statin drugs can be beneficial. Three, the authors state that under no circumstances, should statin drugs be given to children. One issue that the authors bring up is the quality of listening by doctors to their patients, especially when patients talk about side effects. Four, there are side effects associated with statin drugs. They include:

• difficulty in walking
• general weakness
• loss of muscle mass
• muscle cramps
• muscle spasms
• muscle weakness
• numbness
• sexual function, impairs

Information about Fats

The authors provide an excellent explanation on the role fats have in our bodies as well as the type of fats that exist. Below is a chart covering fats or also known as essential fatty acids:

Information about Sugar and Other Factors behind Cardiovascular Disease

What are the real culprits behind cardiovascular disease? It is the high consumption of sugar and simple carbohydrates. As more Americans reduced their fat intake and increased the carbohydrate intake, obesity levels in this country rose. Continued and prolonged stress can aggravate our health. Another factor behind cardiovascular disease is chronic inflammation (different from acute inflammation) and chronic inflammation has been found to play a role in a number of health issues. Sugar consumption plays a role in creating chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation plays a role in:

• Alzheimers
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Chronic liver and kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Flu and pneumonia
• Neurogenerative diseases
• Obesity
• Respiratory conditions

What can be done to improve Cardiovascular Health?

What can be done to improve cardiovascular health? It includes the following:

1. Don't smoke
2. Drink alcohol in moderation
3. Eat a wholesome, low glycemic diet with plenty of omega-3s and fiber
4. Engage in moderate to vigorous exercise
5. Maintain a healthy weight

A chapter covers the supplements that enhance cardiovascular health. Below is a table showing the major and minor ones that enhance cardiovascular health:

The authors lists the various tests that can be used as a more detailed assessment of your cardiovascular health. The authors also spell which foods are better for cardiovascular health and which ones to avoid. It is also important to have positive influences and support in your life, as well. This resource, while it tries to use plain language, the book has be written to address different audiences to include both the public and to the professional medical audience. It includes references, a glossary, and an index. (Added 002/01/2015)

Website for Jonny Bowden, Ph.D

For more information about Jonny Bowden, his website address is: www.jonnybowden.com. (Added 02/01/2015)

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CIRCADIAN RHYTHM (Body Clock)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is belief that our bodies operate on a clock, 24 hours, in which various parts of our bodies plays a role. In this case, we have an author who calls it the body clock instead of the Circadian Rhythm.(Added 02/27/2020)

Book on the Circadian Rhythm:

The Body Clock in Traditional Chinese Medicine: understanding our energy cycles for health and healing (2020) by Lothar Ursinus. (Publisher: EarthDancer)

Book Review:

The author, Lothar Ursinus is one of Germany's leading alternative practitioners. Our organs play more than just one role, besides the stomach digesting food. There is an emotional component to all of our organs and all parts of our body are interconnected. It is not just our bodies, we are also all interconnected with each other. Furthermore, when we experience illness, it is a message coming from our bodies that something needs to be changed. The author covers various parts of the body. He also covers beneficial cell salts known as Schluesser salts (found in homeopathic medicine) as well as plants with medicinal properties. Every aspect of our bodies has an emotional component. It is related or connected with teeth. Each organ is active at a specific time in the 24 hour day, as well as inactive at a specific time in the 24 hour day. Below is a table:

The source of information for the circadian rhythm or body clock comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine, which has a wholistic perspective on health. Each of our organs plays a role regarding our emotional and mental health. The table above highlights some of the key roles of these organs. Throughout the book, the author also throws in tidbits about various health issues. An example are the signs pointing out to the initial stages of diabetes Type 2. There is discussion on AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products), phytic acid, casein, fructose, the meridian role, remedy for ear infections, best not to eat in the evening, and etc.

While in Western medicine, we tend to focus on specific areas of our bodies and omit the emotional aspects of health. In conclusion, we all have basic emotional and physical needs. The author lists:

1. Security, structure, and stability
2. Appreciation, self-worth, introspection, and self-respect
3. Love, being loved, being touched

1. Diet
2. Exercise
3. Relaxation

The book offers a very different perspective generally not addressed in allopathic medicine. For those seeking healing, it is important to pay attention to the circadian rhythm. This book does not include a bibliography and an index. The author lists his website: http://www.healthy-active.com for additional information. (Added 02/27/2020)

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CLAY

Ran Knishinsky has written a book outlining the medicinal benefits of eating clay. (Added 4/11/2022)

Book on Clay:

Healing with Clay: a Practical Guide to Earth's Oldest Natural Remedy (2022) by Ran Knishinsky. (Publisher: Healing Arts Press) (Added 4/11/2022)

Book review:

Ron Knishinsky has written a resource about the medicinal benefits of eating the right type of clay as well as some of the cultural and historical uses of using clay for medicinal purposes. The author was experiencing a growth for which surgery was recommended. Eating clay helped remove the growth. His professional background includes experience with both allopathic and naturopathic medical industries. Each of them has a role to play.

Historically, eating clay was done in Egyptian times, in Roman Empire, in Greek medicine, in Chinese medicine, in Indian medicine and for thousands of years. What the clay does, it stimulates the immune system. With today's science tools, we can understand how clay can help us and the different types of clay. Below we have a table that covers some of the concepts pertaining to the use of clay for medicinal purposes.

The biblical reference that we are created from dust and to dust, we return. After reading this resource, it sounds like this was possible. A chapter covers the use of clay for animals and another one covers the use of eating clay during pregnancy. Another chapter covers the ways one can utilize clay as a natural medicine. This resource includes notes, and an index. Added 04/11/2022)

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COCONUT (As a Food and Medicine)

In keeping with the theme of this website, that food is our medicine and medicine is our food, coconuts fit this criteria. In tropical climates, where coconuts grow and in some instances, is the only source of food, coconuts are used both as a food and as a medicine. We have a comprehensive resource written by Dr. Bruce Fife, a naturopathic doctor about the nutritional and medicinal benefits of coconuts. (Added 10/15/2012)

Book on Coconuts :

Coconut Cures: preventing and treating common health problems with Coconut (2005) by Bruce Fife, ND. (Publisher: Piccadilly Books. Ltd.)

Book review:

If there was a food with both nutritional and medicinal value, it would be the coconut. The coconut is a seed of the palm tree, the largest seed we have. It can be eaten as coconut water, coconut milk, coconut cream, and coconut oil. It is also food that is quite low in allergenic properties; very few people have allergy reactions to coconuts. In recent years, coconuts have received unfavorable publicity. This book changes that.

The coconut is also antibiotic, an immuno-enhancer, a food that can regulate the body's function and defense mechanism. It promotes the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K; also the following minerals: calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is non-toxic and protects the body from infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, yeasts, protozoa, and worms without harmful side effects.It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokins and stimutlates anti-cytokines. Actually, coconut oil is used in feeding tubes and IV solutions to treat critically ill patients.

And there are different types of saturated fats based on the molecular size. They are: short chain fatty acids (SCFs) medium chain fatty acids (MCFs) long chain fatty acids (LCFs)

Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids. It is quite absorbable and digestable by the body, without the need for digestive enzymes.

Coconut oil can help in the following health conditons:

• Candida - can reduce sugar craving
• Chronic fatigue - can help increase energy, especially when coconut is taken in the morning
• Chronic infection - can help deal with low grade chronic infection
• Coronary or heart disease -Populations that eat primarily coconut and its byproducts experience very little heart disease. In the Philippines, where there is high consumption of coconuts, especially coconut oil, the rate of heart disease is the lowest.
• Dental disease - can help with these conditions
• Diabetics - MCFAs in coconuts provides cells the energy they need, especially type 2 diabetes. Coconut oil improves:
  • insulin secretion
  • insulin sensitivity
  • glucose tolerance
  • stimulates the metabolism
  • helps regulate blood sugar
  • Can help those who are pre-diabetic, as well.
• Epileptic seizures - reduce frequency of seizures by 50%
• Infections - can help fight infections (can be used against supergerms that resist antibiotics; may help those with HIV. Lipid coated viruses and bacteria, their outer membrane is destabilized by MCFAs.)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease - reduce inflammation in the intestines
• Homocysteine - a sulfur containing amino acid, elevated levels appear to be able to damage the cells lining the insides of arteries; a more accurate predictor of heart disease; coconut oil helps along with vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid to reduce homocysteine levels
• Kidney disease - coconut oil can help protect the kidneys; help those patients on dialysis be less constipated
• Low birth weight infants - Low birth weight infants do better when their formulas contains MCTs. They grow faster and have a higher survival rate. Coconut can be eaten in a variety of ways. In fact, MCFAs, medium chain fatty acids, are found in human breast milk.
• Liver - MCFAs can help the liver by stopping free radicals and killing harmful germs, and neutralize the effects of poisons; also helps the liver from clogging up with cholesterol
• Parasites - Coconuts can help deal with parasites and disease causing germs
• Thyroid - helps those with low thyroid function
• Skin problems - help heal sunburn, eczema, athlete's foot, jock itch, and age spots
• Ulcers - can soothe open sores on skin and mucous membranes
• Weight management - a good choice as an oil as it satisfies hunger

In addition to the various health conditions, the author also discusses the health issues associated with toxins.

Two types of coconut oil:
RBD - refined, bleached, deodorized, and made from copra
Virgin - made fresh

Coconut flour is high in fiber and low in digestable carbohydrates (needs more water than other flours). It contains 71% digestible fiber. Coconut milk is rich in fat and protein. Coconut milk can be fermented.

The last chapter lists a number of health issues that can be treated or reduced with coconuts. The author lists recipes in how to treat these conditions. Some of the conditions listed include:

• AIDS/HIV
• Arthritis and Stiff Joints
• Candida infection
• Diabetes
• Gum disease and tooth decay
• Hypothyroidism
• Insect bites and stings
• Poison ivy and oak
• Yeast infection

This resource includes resources, a bibliography, references and an index. (Added 10/15/2012)

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COLON HYDROTHERAPY

For people not knowledgeable about the benefits of a healthy colon, a clean colon free of toxins and impacted matter, it is a cornerstone of one's overall health. There is a procedure called colon hydrotherapy that uses water to clean the colon, performed by a licensed colon hydrotherapist. It is one procedure that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We have one resource that addressed colon health and the benefits of cleaning one's colon. (Updated 09/01/2018)

Book on Colon Hydrotherapy:

Tissue Cleansing through Bowel Management (2981) by Bernard Jensen, DC, Ph.D, Nutritionist coauthored with Sylvia Bell, 12th edition. (Publisher: Bernard Jensen International)

Book Review:

This resource explains the benefits of cleaning the colon. It was written some time ago, but it is a forerunner of some of the newer books out there that cover what the late Dr. Bernard Jensen, D.C. and Ph.D covers on digestive health. His background includes chiropractic medicine and nutrition. He actually visited other countries and communities that were healthy and had long life spans and studied their lifestyles. Health includes the importance of regular elimination, healthy diet, use of probiotics (except that the word probiotics is not used), and the essential role of bowel health in overall health.

The authors make a point that our health care focuses more on addressing disease, instead of prevention. It turns out that the bowel has the poorest nerve structure of any organ in the body. This makes it hard for the bowel to send out signals when something is amiss except through elimination like constipation or diarrhea. When toxins accumulate in the bowel, the bowel is unable to let you know. It is different from when you get a cut or bruise, your body lets you know. When the body becomes toxic, proper oxidation cannot take place. A toxic colon also means that the colon is less able to absorb nutrients. Without oxygenation, we lack energy and are tired. A healthy colon does not produce much flatulence or gassiness. The functions of the digestive system are described in detail. It was noted that those in Africa and India on diets high in insoluable fiber are healthier and experience less cancer. The authors cover a number of issues relating to digestive health and overall health. Below is a table highlighting some of the issues and concepts covered by Dr. Jensen.

Various diets are covered including fasting. Colema treatment, a form of colon hydrotherapy is covered in detail and information is provided in how to set up one at home. Diet recommendations are provided as well as nutritional supplementation.

Additional information has come up that expands on what Dr. Bernard Jensen covered. A word of caution on colon therapy is in cases of bowel abscesses, colon therapy can result in perforation of the bowel. In these situations, check with a qualified physician. One of the major aspects of this resource is how a number of health conditions such as asthma, arthritis, triglyercrides, and cholesterol levels can be alleviated by cleaning the bowel and restoring it to optimum health.

This resource includes case histories, bibliography, glossary, and color photos showing the before and after benefits of colon cleansing. (Added 09/01/2018)

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COOKBOOKS

This section covers various cookbooks that facilitate nutritional health and address specific health issues. We have three different cookbooks. They are:

• The Nourishing Traditions cookbook is a very interesting cookbook, as it also talks about the nutritional content of the food covered in the recipe. It makes a wonderful gift.
• The Yeast Connection Cookbook is for those who are trying to treat their yeast issues, with recipes for foods that will help keep the yeast overgrowth under control.
• The Healthy Probiotic Diet: more than 50 recipes for improved digestion, immunity, and skin health. This cookbook covers on how to prepare foods that provide us the means to have healthy flora in the intestines This is known as prebiotics.

Books on Cooking:

Nourishing Traditions, rev. 2nd ed. (2001) by Sally Fallon with Mary G. Enig. (Publisher: New Trends Publishing, Inc.)

The Yeast Connection Cookbook: A Guide to Good Nutrition and Better Health (2007) by William G., M.D. C rook and Marjorie Hurt Jones (Publisher: SquareOne Publishers)

The Healthy Probiotic Diet: more than 50 recipes for improved digestion, immunity, and skin health (2014) by R. J. Ruppenthal. (Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing)

Book Review:

As we become more aware of various foods and their impact on our health and digestion, we learn more about probiotics. Probiotics provide the intestinal tract with helpful bacteria that facilitates a healthier and stronger environment for the immune system as well as absorption of nutrients. While this cookbook is titled as a probiotic cookbook, we are really talking about prebiotics. Prebiotics develop as probiotics for the digestive system, especially for the intestines, promoting a healthy flora for the intestines. It offers a number of recipes for prebiotic foods.

Fermented foods and drinks contain alot of prebiotics per serving. The author gives detailed explaination of which foods and drinks contain beneficial bacteria as well as which ones don't. These recipes offers an alternative to probiotic supplementation. These recipes include recipes for yogurt, pickles, sauerkraut, fermented condiments, and drinks. Suggestions are also provided on ways to utilize prebiotic foods. It includes colorful pictures of the prepared dishes/beverages.

The appendix includes resources and a recipe index. (Added 011/06/2015)

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CORONAVIRUS

In view of the widespread flow of the coronavirus across the world, we have an article that highlights the nutritional medicine approach to treating this virus. This virus is also labeled as COVID-19. As we know more about this virus, we have added a book covering this topic by Dr. Joseph Mercola, MD. A third resource covers long covid, a period that occurs after having the initial bout of the virus. (Added 03/04/2020, Updated 12/10/2021, Updated 06/03/2023)

Healing Therapies for Long Covid: an integrative and intuitive guide to recovering from post-acute Covid (2023) by Vir McCoy. (Publisher: Healing Arts Press) (Added 06/03/2023)

Book review:

In this resource, the author Vir McCoy contracted COVID-19 before vaccines were made available. While the author recovered from the acute phase of COVID, he still continued to have and feel the after effects of this virus. This is called the long covid and is different from acute covid. He sought remedies and techniques to deal with the health issues that continued to crop up. He covers them in detail.

After the initial bout with the COVID-19 virus, he experienced a wide range of symptoms. Below is a list in alphabetical order and they occurred at different times.

The author covers other techniques that play a role in the healing process. One that is covered is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). He mentions medicinal mushrooms. Breathing exercises can be used. Colonics and enemas are mentioned. There are issues with heavy metals exposure. They accumulate in the body and there are heavy metal detoxifiers. Herbs can be used, as well. The benefits of fasting are addressed. A list of ingredients to detoxify the ingredients found in vaccines are listed. Also, listed are anti-inflammatories and it can include pharmaceuticals, herbs, chemical compounds, and other options. Supplements are listed as well, and they are more than vitamins and minerals. The appendix includes:

• Treatment Protocol Summary
• Fire Love Loop Exercise
• Covid Panic Emergency Meditation
• Healing Recipes, Tinctures, and Blends
• Homeopathic Repertory for COVID Symptoms

Article and Book Review on the Coronavirus:

Nutritional Treatment of the Coronavirus by Andrew Saul (Publisher: Orthomolecular Medicine News Service, Jan. 30, 2020)

Article Review:

This article recommends the use of intravenous vitamin C to treat the more serious cases of the coronavirus. Two doctors started this protocal of using vitamin C to treat viruses. They are Dr. Frederick R. Klenner, MD and Dr. Robert F. Cathcart, MD. For milder cases, vitamin C orally can be taken until bowel tolerance is reached. The article talks about some of the past epidemics such as Flu Pandemic of 1919-1920, Swine Flu, and SARS.

Vitamin C fights all types of viruses. Even low dosages of vitamin C taken throughout the day can be beneficial. Additional recommended nutrients are:

• Magnesium - 400 mg daily (in citrate, malate, chelate, or chloride form)
• Vitamin D3 - 2000 International Units daily (start with 5,000 IU/day for two weeks, then reduce it to 2,000)
• Zinc - A powerful antioxidant with 20-40 mg/day for adults
• Selenium - 100 mcg (micrograms) a day, a mineral and an antioxidant
• B-Complex and vitamin A - taken with meals

The Truth About Covid-19: Exposing the Great Reset, Lockdowns, Vaccine Passports and the New Normal (2021) by Dr. Joseph Mercola and Ronnie Cummins. (Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing) (Added 12/01/2021)

Book Review:

Generally, this website focuses on information to enhance our understanding on how our bodies work from a nutritional medicine point of view. In view of the widespread path of COVID-19 over countries, this is a topic that needs further understanding. As a virus, the COVID-19 also mutates with time into variants. So, this pandemic is far from over. Dr. Joseph Mercola, MD has written a comprehensive resource covering COVID-19. Unfortunately, there are political overtones regarding this pandemic and the focus of world health authorities to push vaccinations. This pandemic has had a serious effect on the world economy, poverty, hunger, homelesses, and unemployment, including the United States. Furthermore, there is considerable misinformation taking place regarding this pandemic, including the testing protocols. It also includes censorship. And we need to be aware of how this pandemic is affecting individual rights and liberties.

This pandemic offers us an opportunity to reassess on how we can promote everyone's health. Dr. Mercola points out that it starts with our food and how farming practices and food processing has actually reduced the nutritional status in the food. It definitely impacts on everyone's health and it is becoming a worldwide issue. However, what we are seeing is the push for vaccinations with vaccine mandates. Apparently, the antibodies created by the initial vaccination require boosters. While COVID-19 is playing a factor in how many people have died, the real issue is comorbidities, other health issues affecting people like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease, dementia, hypertension, and etc. People are not just dying from the COVID-19, it is when it occurs with other health issues. The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for COVID-19.

Again, Dr. Mercola points out that this pandemic offers us an opportunity to reassess on how we can promote everyone's health, in a way that strengthens our immune system and reduces our vulnerability to this pandemic and future pandemics. This means avoiding junk food and reducing our exposure to toxins.

The source of this virus appears to have been man-made, as a form of being a biological weapon, released from Wuhan, China. It is actually illegal to develop biological weapons, an effort led by Francis Boyle with the 1989 U.S. Bioterrorism law. Actually, effforts have been made to develop vaccines that can effectively and safely work with these weaponized viruses. Safety Issues were raised about safety and effectiveness about vaccines to deal with coronaviruses. Dr. Mercola covers the history in creating this vaccine against COVID-19.

Dr. Mercola identifies the key players that are pushing for vaccinations, vaccine mandates, and limiting and censoring information based on nutrition and other protocols. The manufacturers of these vaccines are profiting from this pandemic.

Below is a table that highlights some of the concepts covered in this resource.

Every health care practitioner, legislator and government official, and concerned citizens, they need to read this book and get a basic understanding of what is really going on with this pandemic. We need to address the roles played by Big Pharma, Big Food, and Big Agriculture in this pandemic that is preventing all of us from seeing the larger picture, the role of nutrition and toxins in health. A more worrisome concern is the censorship and suppression of information that can help people recover from this pandemic. From a political perspective, the measures our governments are taking to address this pandemic are affecting individual rights, including medical rights. There are people whose health makes them vulnerable to vaccine harm. What rights do they have when vaccines are mandated, especially if the employer makes it mandatory. Meanwhile, companies and individuals that are profiting from his pandemic have gotten richer. It is essential that there be an arms length relationship between the pharmaceutical/vaccine industry and government health agencies including the CDC, NIH, FDA in the United States. Dr. Mercola also states that some people may already have some antibodies from previous exposure to the coronavirus in a cold and resist the Covid virus. According to Mark Ridley, viruses weaken over time. This book lists notes and an index. (Added 12/01/2021)

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DENTAL HEALTH (GENERAL)

This section covers materials that relate to overall dental health. We have a resource on oil pulling that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. (Added 08/09/2016)

Book on Dental Health (General):

Oil Pulling Therapy: detoxifying and healing the body through oral cleansing (2008) by Dr. Bruce Fife. (Publisher: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.). (Added 08/09/2016)

Book Review:

This book covers an interesting and safe technique that can promote both your dental and physical health. The author, Dr. Bruce Fife, ND is a naturopathic physician who talks about both oil pulling and overall dental health issues. This is why this book is placed under dental health. Oil pulling actually has been used for generations in Ayurvedic medicine. The mouth is the window to the rest of the body and can indicate a person's overall health. This was known thousands of years ago. All disease apparently can start in the mouth. Farmers, when they consider purchasing an animal, they check the animal's mouth, as a sign to indicate how healthy the animal is. Bacteria and viruses in the mouth play a role in development of heart disease. An infected tooth or toothache is not a minor matter as it can affect your overall health. It can play a role in:

• arthritis
• diabetes
• gastrointestinal health
• infections and chronic disease
• lung and bronchial infections
• nervous system (Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson's)
• osteoporosis

Below is a table about issues that the author covers regarding dental health.

Gum disease and tooth decay are now common in the United States and world wide. Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime if properly taken care of and properly nourished. Dr. Fife covers some of the nutrients that are beneficial to healthy teeth and bones. Biological dentists are more knowledgeable about the issues associated with the dangers of mercury in dental fillings, safe removal of these fillings, and alternatives. This is more than a guide about oil pullings. The author presents a plan that enhances our dental health and physical health:

• Healthy diet
• Supplemental oil (coconut oil) to use for oil pulling
• Fluid consumption (hydration using clean water)
• Vitamins and minerals
• Dental care (tooth brushing, flossing, and dental checkups)
• Mercury detoxification (for those with amalgams containing mercury and after the removal of these amalgams)
• Medications (avoid the ones that are not necessary)
• Maintaining healthy pH levels
• Oil pulling can be done in conjunction with other detoxification programs
• Maintenance - it is suggested to keep doing oil pulling on a daily basis to maintain dental health

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DENTAL HEALTH (MERCURY AMALGAM SILVER FILLINGS)

Optimum human health includes optimum dental health. Human health is dependant upon having healthy and happy teeth. However, the use of mercury in dental fillings represents a serious health hazard to our health. Mercury is known to be one of the most toxic substances as well as being a neurotoxin (toxic to the brain). The book listed below is written by a dentist extremely knowledgeable about the dangers of using mercury in dental fillings. For the best results, it is better to do a mercury detoxification program along with the removal of mercury amalgam silver fillings. For information about mercury as a chemical, also a heavy metal, see the section covering MERCURY (CHEMICAL). (Added 10/19/2011, Updated 08/05/2016)

Books on Dental Health:

The Poison in Your Teeth (2008) by Tom McGuire, DDS. (Publisher: Dental Wellness Institute)

Book review:

This book explains the effect of mercury on human health. One, apparently when a fetus is conceived, the fetus is exposed to the mercury that is in the mother's dental fillings. The fetus has no way of protecting itself from any type of toxic substance. It offers one possible answer as to why some children develop autism and they have never been vaccinated. Two, mercury fillings releases mercury vapor. This spreads out throughout the body, adversely affecting the body's immune system and aggravating a wide variety of human ailments and health conditions.) (Added 10/19/2011)

Mercury Detoxification: the natural way to remove mercury from your body (2006) by Tom McGuire, DDS. (Publisher: Dental Wellness Institute)(Note: An excellent and readable resource; it offers information about detoxification.)(Added 10/25/2011)

Web Resources on Dental Health (Mercury Amalgam Silver Fillings)

Dr. Tom McGuire, DDS maintains a website called the Dental Wellness Institute. The web address is: http://dentalwellness4u.com. (Added 10/19/2011)

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DVD Resources on DENTAL HEALTH (MERCURY AMALGAM SILVER FILLINGS)

This DVD called "Evidence of Harm: Mercury dental fillings" presents the issues relating to the mercury use in dental amalgam fillings. It was produced in 2015 by Do No Harm Productions and Ministry Machine Productions, filmed by Randall More. It runs for one hour, nineteen minutes, and 35 seconds and the main presentation is captioned. It also includes addendum materials (not captioned) covering:

• Evidence of Harm (14 minutes) for dental offices
• International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology
• The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
• Dental Mercury Exposure during Amalgma Removal
• Mercury Linked to Alzheimer's Disease
• Dental Mercury's Toxic Journey into the Environment
• Dental Mercury Kidney Dysfunction and Neurological Harm

• Autoimmune disease
• Chronic fatigue
• Chronic headaches
• Depression
• Double vision
• Insomnia
• Loss of vision
• Memory loss
• Neurological problems
• Panic attacks

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DENTAL HEALTH (ROOT CANALS)

As this website focuses on nutritional medicine, promoting optimum health, and prevention of illness, disease, and injury, it is important to cover dental health and root canals. This is another piece of the puzzle for keeping us healthy and why a number of us of are experiencing health issues. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the United States.

Actually, cavities, even little cavities, are a sign of our systemic health is not as healthy as it can be. Generally, our society in the U.S. has grown to accept the incidence of cavities in children, teens, and adults as being normal. It is a sign that our bodies are not receiving optimum nutrition. Dr. Weston Price, DDS, a major pioneer and researcher on the role of nutrition in dental, physical, and mental health did considerable research on the issues and health outcomes associated with root canals. His research was performed from 1900 thru 1923, accompanied by a team of leading medical and dental scientists at that time. For people interested in dealing with their root canals (as well as dental fillings that have mercury), a specialty of dentistry called biological dentistry exist. These biological dentists are especially trained to deal with both root canals and mercury fillings and are more knowledgeable about the role of nutrition in dental health. They also know the dangers mercury poses and safe ways to dispose dental fillings that have mercury in them.

We have two resources covering the health issues on root canals. One is Root Canal Cover-Up by George E. Meining, DDS, FACD. The second resource is The Toxic Tooth by Robert Kulacz, DDS and Thomas E. Levy, MD, JD. Some of the information is covered in both books.

Books on Dental Health (Root Canals):

Root Canal Cover-Up (1998) by George E. Meinig, DDS, FACD. (Publisher: Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation).

Dr. George E. Meining, DDS was one of the founders for the Association of Root Canal Specialists. Dr. Meinig came across the research performed by Dr. Weston A. Price, DDS on root canals. Dr. Price wrote two books. One is Dental Infections, Oral and Systemic and the second one is Dental Infections and Degenerative Diseases. Dr. Meinig also came across the research of Dr. Hal Huggins, along with other people, who repeated many of Dr. Price's experiments, using guinea pigs instead of rabbits. He discovers evidence that root canals can damage your health, especially when your immune systems become weaker, and tells you what you can do about it. The immune system can be overloaded by stress. A number of basic concepts are listed below:

The best way to treat dental health issues is really prevention. This includes:

• proper nutrition and mastication (chewing foods)
• proper prophylaxis (teeth cleaning)
• proper dental operating procedures

This resource includes references and an index. This book was written for both the laymen and dental professionals. It includes dental terminology, the protocol for treating, in this case, removing infected root canals. It is also a worthwhile resource for physicians, as well. The authors estimate that as much as 80% of health conditions originate from the mouth. (Added 09/24/2015)

Website for Price–Pottenger Nutrition Foundation

For more information about Dr. Price Weston, DDD, check the Price–Pottenger Nutrition Foundation website as well as book ordering information. The website address is: https://ppnf.org/about/. (Added 09/24/2015)

Book Review:

The Toxic Tooth: how a root canal could be making you sick (2014) by Robert Kulacz, DDS and Thomas E. Levy, MD, JD. (Publisher: MedFox Publishing).

This resource is a more recent book covering the issues and health dangers associated with root canals. Dr. Robert Kulacz, DDS is a dentist who discovered the health issues his patients were experiencing as a result of their root canals. The second author, Dr. Thomas E. Levy, MD and JD is a physician who also has a law degree. This book has been written for both the public and medical professionals. According to these authors, over 25 million root canals are performed each year in the United States.

These two authors have included more up-to-date information, information that verified Dr. Weston Price's research findings along with other medical scientists' research (see the book review for Root Canal Cover-Up). Below is a table highlighting some of the updates.

Unfortunately, for Dr. Robert Kulacz, DDS. the New York State Office of Professional Discipline went after Dr. Kulacz, attempted to revoke his license, and basically put him out of business. Dr. Kulacz describes the dental board attack on his license in the preface to The Toxic Tooth. This book also covers the political and dental issues regarding root canals, as if there continues to be a cover-up on the dangers associated with root canals. Furthermore, there is discussion about the need for a fully informed medical consent for patients on the pros and cons of root canals. The authors indicate that dentistry and medicine need to be treated as a single system, instead of as two separate systems. The book includes resources and recommended readings.

(Reviewer's note: New York State is one state that has made the hair analysis test medically illegal, when the hair analysis test is a non-invasive, inexpensive test and provides information on both toxic metals and non-toxic mineral levels.) (Added 09/24/2015)

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DEPRESSION

Depression is more common than we think. As much as ten percent of the U.S. population may be suffering from depression. More alarming, children are now being diagnosed with depression. We have a resource by Dr. Michael Schachter, MD covering the nutritional issues behind depression.

We have a second resource covering depression using integrative medicine by Dr. James M. Greenblatt, MD. Depression is like a silent disease as it may not be obvious to everyone who is affected. It is much common than it has been realized. Furthermore, many questions exist on how to best treat depression, other than the use of prescription drugs. If not treated or treated ineffectively, it has serious consequences. Dr. James M. Greenblatt, MD, a psychiatrist has written an informative resource on integrative medicines's approach towards treating depression. (Added 01/15/2015, Updated 03/26/2021)

Books on Depression:

What your doctor may not tell you about depression: the breakthrough integrative approach for effective treatment (2006) by Michael B. Schachter, MD and Deborah Mitchell. (Publisher: Warner Wellness)

Book Review:

Dr. Michael B. Schachter, MD and Deborah Mitchell have written a book explaining in detail the nutritional issues behind depression. It is based on orthomolecular psychiatry, where depression is examined from a cellular point of view and the role of nutrients on the cellular level. There are a considerable number of factors at play with depression. Depression is a result of a chemical imbalance in the brain, an imbalance that includes dozens of substances, especially neurotransmitters. The building blocks of neurotransmitters come from amino acids (protein). There are two types of neurotransmitters, the inhibitory and the excitetory. They need to be balanced. Other factors include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, exposure to toxic substances, gastrointestinal issues, immune system, the nervous system, inadequate sunlight, chronic disease, medications, and genetics. If the hormones are out of balance, so are the neurotransmitters. Neurotoxins affect the brain and they include: lead, mercury, formaldehyde, dioxins, and there are others.

Depression starts with the gut; a gut that is working improperly. Dr. Schachter defines three types of allergies:

• Food allergies (IgE)
• Delayed reactions (IgG)
• Food intolerances

• neurotransmitters (amino acids)
• bionutrients (nutrients and herbs)
• hormones (melatonin, testosterone, cortisol, progesterone, estrogen, and adrenalin)

• What you eat
• What you digest
• What your body absorbs
• What your body assimilates