Suggested Readings and Options on Nutritional Medicine

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DETOXIFICATION

When we start experiencing considerable ill health, there is often a buildup of toxins in the body. There are several ways of detoxifying, to reduce the level of toxins in the body. This also helps with your health. We have quite a number of resources covering detoxification. Detoxification is a major aspect of maintaining our health.

(Note: It would be interesting if we tested the toxic and heavy metals levels of people who commit crimes and other anti-social behavior, and see how many of them are actually suffering from toxic overload. Also, when people are admitted to nursing homes, it would be interesting to check their levels of toxic overload. Who knows what percentage of them have this problem? A fairly easy and inexpensive ($55) hair analysis test can measure heavy metal overloads. There are other tests that measure mercury toxicity.) We have a new section that addresses heavy metal detoxification. It is: Heavy Metal Detoxification. (Added 08/15/2019)

For resources on detoxification, the first book by Sidney MacDonald Baker, MD called Detoxification and Healing (2004) covers concepts that exists with detoxification.

A second resource is 7-Day Detox Miracle (2001) written by Peter Bennett, ND and Stephen Barrie, ND.

A third resource on detoxification, called The Detox Diet (2012) by Dr. Elson M. Haas, MD with Daniella Chace, provides more information.

A fourth resource is Deep Internal Body Cleansing (2001) by Dr. Yakov Koyfman, ND.

A fifth resource on detoxification is called The SimplyRaw Living Foods Detox Manual (2009) written by Natasha Kyssa and it is listed with a book review under Raw Foods.

A sixth resource on detoxification is listed under dental health, a book called Mercury Detoxification by Tom McGuire, DDS.

A seventh resource on detoxification has been written by Dr. Sherry Rogers, MD. It is called Detoxify or Die (2002) and it is listed with a book review under Environmental Illness.

An eighth resource on detoxification, called The Detox Strategy (2008), written by Brenda Watson along with Leonard Smith, MD. Brenda Watson has also written detailed information about the digestive system.

The ninth resource book is by Brenda Watson called Essential Cleansing for Perfect Health (2004) gives more details on the dangers and role of toxins on human health.

The tenth resource is called Mercury Detoxification Simplified (2014) by William W. Rasmussen, MA. While we have a number of resources covering detoxification, it is helpful to understand that specific toxins may require specific medical protocals. This apparently seems to be the case with mercury as a toxic substance, especially with its use in dental fillings. For more information about mercury, see the section covering Mercury (Chemical). (Added 09/07/2016)

The eleventh resource on detoxification is written by Bruce Fife, ND. It explains in considerable detail as to what detoxification is and why detoxification is important. It is called The Detox Book: how to detoxify your body, improve your health, stop disease, and reverse aging, 3rd edition (2011).

The twelfth resource on detoxification Detox Diets for Dummies written by Gerald Don Wooten, DO, M.Ed. and M. Brittain Phillips (2010). (Added 09/27/2017)

The thirteenth resource on detoxification is the 4-Week ultimate body Detox Plan by Michelle Schoffro Cook, DNM, DAc, and CNC (2004). (Added 01/30/2019)

(Updated 07/05/2012, Updated 09/24/2012, Updated 07/04/2013, 07/16/2013, 09/12/2013, 09/07/2016, 10/25/2016, 08/2017, 09/27/2017, 01/30/2019)

Books on Detoxification:

Detoxification and healing: the key to optimal health (2004) by Sidney MacDonald Baker, MD (Publisher: Contemporary Books)

Book review:

When Dr. Sidney MacDonald Baker, MD started his medical education, the focus was on individual systems in the body, such as cardiovascular, nervous, immune, gastrointestinal, urinary, integumentary (skin), musculoskeletal, endocrine, reticuloendothelial (part of the immune system), and hematologic (blood). Medicine was viewed as being very specific and narrow. An illness has a single cause and that can be treated with a single pill.

Under the integrative systems approach, the various systems of the body interact with each other and generally there is no single factor behind a health condition. After finishing medical school, Dr. Baker worked with another physician, a Dr. Edgar Miller, MD who was working in Nepal, who always asked the following question: "Have I done everything I can for the patient?" As Dr. Baker continued practicing medicine, he began to appreciate the detoxification role played in the body. The role of detoxification is important to everyone, the body's ability to remove unwanted waste from the environment and waste produced by the body's cells. This plays a major role in health, the ability to detoxify. Furthermore, each person is different, biochemically different.

Dr. Baker presents a list that can help keep the cells healthy, as well as the body healthy. They are:

1. Treat dysbosis (imbalance of germs in the digestive tract)
2. Avoid food allergens
3. Investigate gluten sensitivity
4. Eliminate mercury
5. Supplement with folic acid
6. Take fatty acid supplements
7. Consider vitamin and mineral supplements

• chemicals
• dander
• dust
• food
• germs
• mold
• pollen

• biologic - from germs, insects, and plants
• elementary - lead, mercury, aluminum, and etc.
• synthetic - mostly petrochemical

• metallic mercury (quick silver) - little absorption
• mercury vapor
• organic forms of mercury - high absorption
  • methyl mercury
  • ethyl mercury

• Is something out of balance, e.g. zinc deficiency?
• Is something wrong with the digestive process, e.g. magnesium deficiency? A person under stress loses magnesium. Is the stomach producing enough stomach digestive enzymes and acids?
• Is there an underlying infection, such as a yeast infection, an Epstein-Barr virus, or herpes simplex?
• Is there a chemical exposure, such as exposure to formaldehyde, pesticide, petrochemical, and etc.?
• Are the adrenal glands functioning below par? This can be considered adrenal insufficiency.
• Psychological factors can play a role, as well.

• milk allergy (reaction is immediate)
• lactose intolerance (body lacks enzyme to separate lactose into two sugars, glucose and galactose

• One is definitive diagnosis, where it is determined that the patient/person has diabetes, crohn's disease, or psoriasis.
• The second is the descriptive diagnosis such as hyperactivity, depression, or tinnitus, or a collection of symptoms that do not match a specific diagnostic category.

7-Day Detox Miracle: revitalize your mind and body with this safe and effective life-enhancing program, rev. 2nd edition (2001) by Peter Bennett, ND, Stephen Barrie, ND, with Sara Faye. (Publisher: Three Rivers Press)

Book review:

The authors are two naturopathic doctors, Peter Bennett, ND and Stephen Barrie, ND. They have written a book that explains a seven day detoxification process that people can participate in. This program is called EcoTox detoxification program. This applies to those who feel that they are in good health and those who are dealing with health issues. (For those with serious health issues, it is strongly suggested that you work with the services of a qualified health care practitioner who understands and is familiar with detoxification; familiar with the various tests that can be used to assist the detoxification process; and, enable the patient to regain their health.)

Detoxification is another way of looking at health, that it is our exposure to toxins that play a major role in developing health issues. Also, the lack of nutrients in our diets, much of it due to poor food choices, affects our health. For this type of health care, the patient needs to take personal responsibility in making food and lifestyle changes.

Detoxification is a process of cleaning, nourishing, and resting the body from inside out, down to the cellular level. Detoxification medicine is used to remove the toxins that disturb the cell's ability to function normally. Detoxification has been around a long time in a number of healthcare systems around the world. It can help those who are sick, alleviate illnesses and disease, and it is quite safe. Each person is treated as an unique case. Detoxification in this publication does not refer to withdrawal and detoxification from alcohol and drugs.

This book describes in detail some of the approaches that are part of the detoxification process.

Detoxification therapy includes:

1. dietary therapy to reduce intestinal membrane inflammation and altered bowel flora
2. nutritional supplementation to increase phase 1 and phase 2 liver detoxification and stimulate bile flow; also enhance the cells' ability to function normally and promote self-healing
3. sauna therapy to enhance the reduction of fat stored pesticide metabolites

The following terms are defined: toxicology, biochemical toxicology, xenobiotics, process of detoxification, and toxity. (Note: xenobiotics are defined as chemicals or molecules that are foreign to biological systems.)

The three areas of detoxification refer to:

1. heavy metal exposure (lead, mercury, and cadmium)
2. pesticide and organic solvent residues (PCBs) stored in human fat tissue
3. altered intestinal ecology

The authors cover how toxins affect human health. Also, nutrients are listed in order of importance to cell health. The top three nutrients are: water, carbohydrates, and fiber. To deal with the health conditions, it has to start with identifying the cause. Mainstream and allopathic medicine treats organs and organ systems and the "standard of care" treats the disease, not the person. This approach does not include biochemical individuality.

Symptoms of health along with questions are listed for energy level, skin, tongue, eyes, digestion, bowels, urine, joints, abdominal muscle tone, posture, and nails.

The authors also explain how cells function. Cells are the foundation of our bodies, basic unit of life. The cells have three parts:

1. nucleus-contains the DNA code, toxins can damage the DNA two ways, altering DNA code or creating free radicals
2. mitochondria-is the energy component of the cell, taking oxygen and glucose and turning it into fuel for the muscles and organs
3. cell membrane-is a film of fat, needs to be fluid and soft, not rigid; as an outer shell of the cell, it plays a role in facilitating communication between cells; toxins can interfere with cell communication

Six steps of detoxification:

1. remove obstacles to health (focus on diet)
2. improve circulation
3. enhance elimination
4. repair gastrointestinal system
5. stimulate the liver
6. transform stress

The authors cover quite a bit of information relating to toxins in our environment. Sources of toxins are covered: cleaning materials, bedding, soft vinyl floors, office supplies, cosmetics, and job-related toxins. Our municipal water systems only filter a limited range of substances. Air pollution is another source of toxins. Information is provided on how heavy metals (aluminum, lead, and mercury) impair human health.

Health conditions:

• ADD-ADD (attention deficit disorder) children may have damaged cell membranes and be deficient in DHA (decohexanoic acid)
• Alzheimer's-brain damage, from environmental toxins, sensitivity to wheat gluten/gliadin, high levels of mercury
• Asthma-increased along with the automobile use
• Autoimmune conditions-(condition where the body attacks its own tissues) cell communication is affected, essential fatty acids are important to cell membrane health, wrong type of fat, hydrogenated is not good for the cells' membrane
• Multiple chemical sensitivity-a legitimate health condition that can be treated with detoxification
• Parkinson's-cause may be environmental toxins, it is not viral or an autoimmune condition, found more frequently in industrialized countries

Tests for detoxification are explained:

1. Regular chemistry screening tests
2. Acid/Base pH testing
3. Testing for heavy metals: hair and urine
4. Functional Liver Detoxification Profile
5. Oxidative Stress Testing
6. Intestinal Permeability Testing
7. Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) and Parasitology (Authors suggest that testing for parasites be done by labs that specialize in parasite testing)
8. Food Allergy Testing (IgE and IgG)
9. Elimination Provocation Testing (avoiding the food, followed by food challenge)
10. Organic Acid Analysis
11. Amino Acid Anaylsis
12. Vitamin and Mineral Assay
13. Hormone Level Analysis
14. Essential Fatty Acid Analysis

In the chapter covering the EcoTox program, detailed information is given on a number of nutrients, in foods and as supplements. It includes recipes and menus. This is an excellent resource covering the various aspects of detoxification. It includes a detoxificaiton annotated reading list by subject, recommended reading, and index. (Added 09/24/2012)

The Detox Diet, 3rd edition (2012) by Elson M. Haas, MD with Daniella Chace. (Publisher: Ten Speed Press) (Added 07/16/2013)

Book review:

The authors, Dr. Elson M. Haas, MD who specializes in integrative and family medicine and Daniella Chace who is a clinical nutritionist explain detoxification as a process and a lifestyle to help us feel better. Our bodies are always detoxifying. The problem occurs when our bodies become overloaded with toxins, and is not able to keep up with the process of detoxifying. This makes us more prone to developing illness.

Importance of detoxifying:

• Clear up symptoms
• Treat disease
• Prevent future problems

• Sugar
• Nicotine
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Chemicals from prescription medications

• Aloe Vera - helps soothe and heal the GI tract mucosa and tissue
• Ascorbic acid - is vitamin C, helps connective tissue repair, wound healing, general tissue strength
• Essential fatty acids (EFAs) - helps maintain the integrity of the cell membranes, protect and heal cells and tissues
• Fiber - the soluable type protects and provides movement of foods through the digestive system
• Glutathione, L-cysteine, and N-acetylcystein (NAC) - provides fuel and act as protective anti-oxidant and detoxification supporter for the GI mucosa and other enzyme systems
• L-Glutamine - used by the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract, in the intestines
• Probiotics - essential for healthy bacteria/flora in the intestines
• Selenium - helps the cells with chemical detoxification
• Vitamin A - needed for normal growth, function, and repair of epithelial cells
• Vitamin E - an antioxidant and protects cell membrane integrity and function
• Zinc - essential to tissue health and repair

Deep Internal Body Cleansing: the third law of health and longevity (2001) by Dr. Yakov Koyfman, ND (Publisher: Koyfman Whole Body Cleansing)

Book review:

Dr. Yakov Koyfman, ND emphasizes the importances of detoxification as another strategy towards promoting and maintaining health, along with nutrition and exercise, and avoiding the onset of ill-health and disease. Toxins come from a variety of sources, entering through the digestive (what we eat) system, through our lungs (what we breathe), and through our skin. Toxins can accumulate along the walls of the colon, creating what is called the "dirty" colon. Toxins can also accumulate in our organs, in the liver, the kidneys, the pancreas, joints, and in the brain. This weakens our organs and the immune system. It is considered a factor in chronic fatigue syndrome. For males, these wastes place more pressure on the prostate gland in men, and more pressure on the ovaries and uterus in women.

As other authors on this website have indicated, our digestive health is important to our overall health. Colon hydrotherapy or colonic irrigation can be used to help clean up the colon. Some people may need 5 to 12 sessions, to clean up the colon. Two types of extra weight was mentioned, one is fatty weight and the other is toxic weight. Toxins in the small intestines expand bellies and waistlines.

Dr. Korfman indicates that it is important to detoxify starting with the colon in a specfic sequence, moving on to the liver, the kidneys, the lymphatic system, the spine/joints/bones, blood vessels, and finally to the cells. Fasting can also facilitate the detoxification process. The benefits of fasting include:

1. lose visible weight
2. improve digestion
3. improve metabolishm
4. give colon a rest
5. improve skin
6. support, strengthen immune system
7. cleans the body on a cellular level
8. helps the body heal itself
9. note: important to be careful in how to break the fast

The Detox Strategy: vibrant health in 5 easy steps (2008) by Brenda Watson with Leonard Smith, Md (Publisher: Free Press)

Book review:

Nutritional medicine would not be incomplete without discussing the role and importance of detoxification, removing toxins from external and internal sources in the body. It is estimated that 25% of global disease is caused by the pollution in our environment. Two thirds of all cancers may be linked to environmental causes. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) based in Washington, DC has found as many as 455 chemicals in the bodies of 75 people tested.
Ninety million Americans are now living with chronic disease. Causal links are being found between the toxins in our environment and autism, ADHD, and developmental delays in children.

Brenda Watson talks about the RENEW program to address the need for detoxification. They are:

• R is for reducing exposure to toxins
• E is for eliminating toxins in the body via specific herbal cleansing regimes
• N is for nourishing your body to encourage optimal self-detoxification
• E is for exercising and relaxation
• W is for wellness

• Diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea
• Diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA)
• Methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl paraben
• Petrolatum
• Propylene glycol
• PVP/VA copolymer
• Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate
• Stearalkonium chloride
• Synthetic colors
• Synthetic fragrances

• blood
• colon (toxic overload results in colitis)
• kidneys
• liver (performs 500 functions; toxic overload results in inflammation)
• lungs (proper breathing is important)
• lymph (deep breathing helps the lymphatic system, as well as jumping on a small trampoline)
• kidneys

Essential Cleansing for Perfect Health (2004) by Brenda Watson, N.D. with Suzin Stockton, M.A. (Publisher: Renew Life Press and Information Services)

Mercury Detoxification Simplified (2014) by William W. Rasmussen, M.A. (Publisher: Metabolic Balance Press). (Added 09/07/2016)

Book Review:

The title specifies the simplification of mercury detoxification. After reading this book, detoxifying from mercury is far from being simple. The author has had to undergo detoxification from his exposure to mercury. In this book, the author tries to explain the ins and outs of detoxifying from mercury. This includes the theories behind mercury detoxification and strategies needed to remove this toxin. He has tried a number of the protocols listed in the book. He takes the time explain which ones work and which ones don't work. This book raises questions regarding mercury detoxification. Five main questions and issues are raised.

• One, it is important to know what type of mercury exposure that you are getting. Is it methyl mercury or metallic mercury? From a general perspective, it also raises the question what types of toxins are we being exposed other than mercury?
• Two, it is helpful to assess to where the mercury has lodged or taken residence in the body. Has it reached the brain? Is it in a specific organ, especially in the kidneys? What testing can be done to locate the mercury?
• Three, what is the most appropriate detoxification protocol to use, without causing additional harm and moving mercury into more sensitive areas, especially to the brain and the central nervous system?
• Four, the health status and age also plays a role in how agressive the detoxification process needs to be. Someone with serious health issues, the detoxificaiton process takes longer and needs to be done more slowly. It also depends how efficiently the person's body is able to detoxify. Some are fast and others are slow in detoxifying. The slow detoxifiers need additional assistance.
• Five, why have the drug chelation DMSA, DMPS and EDTA been responsible for a significant number of adverse reactions each year and for the death of several autistic children? These drugs chelators have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular and circulatory conditions and are used by many holistic doctors.
  • First, DMSA is FDA approved for lead detoxification and cardiovascular disease. But none of these chelation drugs are FDA approved for mercury detoxification. This is due to no evidence being submitted to the FDA proving that they are effective for mercury detoxification. Their use for mercury detoxification is therefore off label use making them experimental for this purpose.
  • Second, these drug chelators depend on well functioning liver, kidneys and intestinal tract for the elimination of the drug/mercury complex. Most people with chronic mercury toxicity do not have well functioning organs of elimination. If they did, the mercury would not have accumulated in the first place.
  • Third, the most important disadvantages of these drug chelators are their poor bonding strength with mercury. This low bonding strength allows them to drop the mercury in the bloodstream. The drugs are then free to go back into the tissues and pull even more mercury into the bloodstream. This dramatically raises free blood mercury levels to dangerous levels. This free mercury is absorbed by the brain and nervous system due to their high lipid content and mercury’s fat soluble nature. Thus, these drugs are strong mercury mobilizers but weak chelators.
  • Fourth, the small size of the drug chelator mercury chelate make it difficult for the liver and kidneys to eliminate from the body. They can take close to 24 hours to totally leave the body. This is evidenced by the use of a 24 hour urine collection when a dose of DMSA is used diagnostically to determine the quantity of mercury in a patient.
  • Fifth, some people who are chemically sensitive can have extremely strong adverse reactions to these chemicals requiring a trip to the emergency room.

In contrast this book discusses using the new natural non toxic mercury chelators and intestinal tract binders that have a strong bonding affinity with mercury and are more resistant to releasing it. In addition, these natural chelators make a large complex with mercury that is very easy for the body to eliminate. Over 90% of some of these natural chelators is out of the blood and body in 3 hours.

The author has described an approach to detoxification that lowers blood mercury levels and keeps them low. The first stage of detoxification is to take these intestinal mercury binders and or natural mercury chelators that will strongly bind with the mercury. The resultant bound mercury molecule is large enough to be easily eliminated by the organs of elimination. One product that the author recommends is MetalSweep/IMD. These products are used for several weeks to months until blood mercury levels have been reduced.

The second stage is the use of natural products to mobilize mercury in conjunction with the natural chelators and intestinal binders. These mobilizers pull mercury out of the cells and tissues where it has been stored. Natural detoxification products that mobilize mercury should be used in small quantities initially to prevent blood mercury levels rising to dangerously high levels. The author discusses how to use these Mercury mobilizers in conjunction with the natural chelators and intestinal mercury binders to keep blood mercury levels low. Some of the natural mercury elimination products discussed by the author contain a mixture of mobilizers and chelators making them undesirable for use at the beginning of a detoxification but advantageous for later stages of detoxification.

Given the serious effect mercury has on our health, it is helpful to list the various sources of mercury exposure. They include:

Silver amalgam fillings - About 65% of the American population have at least one of these fillings.
Fish, especially large fish
Vaccinations, especially thimersol
Discount herbal and mineral supplements, especially those from overseas. (Use American made products where there is FDA oversight.)
Broken commpact CFL and long tube fluorescent light bulbs
Fabric softeners and anti-static dryer sheets
Personal care products such as cosmetics, mascara, and pigment removing creams
High fructose corn syrup - some of this is made with mercury
Antiseptics and drug preservatives
Anti-itch skin lotions
Drugs
Fungicides
Mold resistant paint
Mushrooms
Kidney stew (80% of the mercury in the body is stored in the kidneys)
Broken (mercury) thermometers
Coal burning power plants (a world wide issue)
Fertilizers and sewage sludge
Gold mining operations
Industrial processes

It is helpful to briefly list how dangerous mercury is to human health.

• One, a few milligrams of mercury can kill a human being
• Two, mercury inactivates enzymes and generates free radicals. The existence of free radicals can damage existing cells.
• Three, mercury has an affinity for sulfur and can pull it out of enzymes. This affects every organ, gland, and system in the body. The weakest system is most likely to feel it. What is each person's weakest system will vary from individual and this means that a wide range of symptoms occur from mercury exposure.
• Four, mercury can influence and affect the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
• Five, mercury toxicity can result in behavioral changes such as anger, fear, rage, anxiety, obsessive behavior and mental illness. Many of the symptoms for mercury toxicity have been found in schizophrenics.

A number of concepts and information relating to detoxification is presented in this book. Below is a table talking about these issues.

The author explains the normal mercury detoxification:

• The body uses glutathione to transport mercury out of the cell and dumps it into the lymphatic and blood systems.
• The liver uses glutathione to filter this mercury out the blood stream.
• The liver attaches the mercury to carrier proteins and into the bile. The mercury containing the bile is excreted into the small intestines and travels to the large intestines and into the toilet. A fast bowel transit time prevents the mercury from being reabsorbed into the body. Otherwise, with a long bowel transit (36 to 72 hours), the mercury goes right back to the liver.

Recommended steps regarding mercury detoxification

• Step one: Limit one's exposure to mercury
• Step two: Reduce the amount of mercury in the body
• Step three: Re-establish the body's production of glutathione, used by the body to eliminate mercury. It is also important to determine the cause of decreased glutathione production. (Note: When the mercury levels in the body decrease, the elimination functions in the body tend to improve.)
• Step four: Improve the kidney, liver, and bowels function to increase the quantity of mercury that these organs can eliminate.
• Note: While undergoing the mercury detoxification, it is extremely important to enough drink water, to help flush out the mercury especially from the kidneys.

As for tests, the author discusses a number of tests, what they can do and what they cannot do. One test that is recommended is the Tri-Test available from QuickSilver Scientific, Inc. This test checks for two types of mercury in blood, hair, and urine which indicates how efficient the body's mercury excretion is. The new mercury blood test is less useful but accurate. Hair analysis is accurate for mercury from fish but not metallic mercury from dental amalgams.

This resource contains alot of good information about the various approaches used to detoxify mercury and how it works. Christopher Shade, PhD is mentioned as being extremely knowledgeable about mercury detoxification protocols, what is safe and what is unsafe. The book ends with detailed coverage about dental practices and the pros and cons of various substances used in dentistry. It recommends testing the patient for compatibility/sensitivity before using a specific dental substance. The book includes resources and references. (Added 09/07/2016)

The Detox Book: how to detoxify your body, improve your health, stop disease, and reverse aging, 3rd edition (2011) by Bruce Fife, ND. (Publisher: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.). (Added 10/25/2016)

Book Review:

As all of us are being exposed to more and more toxins in our environment, this increases everyone's toxic load. Our health and detoxification system can only handle so much of these toxins. Bruce Fife, a naturopathic doctor has written a book on how we can help our bodies deal with these toxins. This will enable us to maintain our health and overcome existing health issues. While theoretcally, our bodies can process toxins, the question becomes, when do small amounts on top of other small amounts become too much? Toxic accumulation results in:

• altered metabolism
• autoimmune disease
• decreased immune function
• enzyme dysfunction
• hormonal imbalance
• nutritional imbalances
• psychological disturbances

An unfortunate consequence of industrialization as well as the use of chemicals in farming and our environment is the rise of degenerative diseases. The growing use of chemicals now in the thousands is affecting our air, food, and water. Below we have a table covering a number of concepts relating to detoxification. Before undertaking any major detoxification protocol, it is important to embark on a nutrient dense diet, referred to as the natural foods diet.

This resource would be excellent for anyone dealing with a major health issue, interested in detoxifying, and seeking alternatives to what allopathic medicine has to offer. This includes surgery. This book also deals with detoxification from a holistic point of view. Each chapter has a bibliography and the book has an index. This is also a resource for food manufacturers that are are interested in providing food products that is healthy. They may find this book to be of interest. Finally, the statement that a little doesn't hurt us, add up all the "littles that doesn't hurt" from our air, water, and food, that little bit of exposure can be the one that triggers ill health. This trigger point would vary from person to person. We need to keep in mind how these toxins affect infants, young children, pregnant mothers, seniors, and those dealing with health issues. (Added 10/25/2016)

Detox diets for dummies (2010) by Gerald Don Wooten, DO, M.Ed. and M. Brittain (Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc.)

Book review:

According to this resource, over 80,000 man-made chemicals are released into the environment every year, and fewer than 3,000 have been tested to determine their toxic effects on humans. We need to also mention their accumulative effects as well as their synergestic effects (when one or more chemicals interact with each other). The internal effects of these chemicals and toxins affect the stomach, the intestines, the liver, the kidneys, the lungs, and finally our immune system. The external effects of chemicals shows up on our skin. Toxins affect our energy level, gets into our fat cells, places additional stress on the body, and affects our immune system. Toxins are probably the most serious danger to human health that we have today (not to mention, a danger to insect life, animal life on land, in air, and in water, our soil, our air, and our plant life).

The first step is to minimize our exposure to toxins as well as determine what they are. Toxins enter our bodies in one of three ways. They are:

• Kidneys deal with water soluable toxins
• Liver deal with chemical type of toxins
• Skin releases toxins through sweating and perspiration

• Natural chemicals like poison ivy and spider bites
• Living toxins like bacteria, yeasts, parasites, and viruses (also known as biologic toxins)
• Man-made chemicals

• Toxins damage cells and the DNA and RNA within our cells
• Toxins can damage nerve cells in our brain resulting in Alzheimer's, MS, and Parkinsons
• Toxins can cause intestinal complications
• Toxins accumulate in fat cells

This table covers sources of toxins.

This is a great resource to begin understanding the harm toxins do to our bodies, learning where they come from, what we can do to minimize our exposure, and prevent them from causing harm to our health. The authors also address on how our bodies function, especially when it comes to detoxification. It is apparent that the authors are knowledgeable about health issues relating to toxins and it is written in plain language that most people should be able to understand.

The book ends with information on ten foods not to purchase, recommended supplements, the don'ts in following the detoxification protocol, and whether or not if the program is working. It includes recipes and an index. For a book that is written for "dummies", this resource contains alot of good information. It also makes a case why everyone needs to have a basic understanding of chemistry.
Note: This book is to educate patients on issues relating to detoxification. For serious detoxification, this needs to be done under the supervision of qualified health care practitioners. (Added 09/27/2017)

4-Week ultimate body Detox Plan (2004) by Michelle Schoffro Cook, DNM, DAc, and CNC. (Publisher: John Wiley) (Added 01/30/2019)

There is a safe way to undergo detoxification as well as an unsafe and dangerous way to detoxify. Michelle Schoffro Cook covers a four week plan to undergo detoxificaiton, step by step process, using a number of protocols. Some people may need more than four weeks, depending upon the severity of their symptoms. The detoxification process is:

• Cleanse the body of toxins
• Reduce our exposure to toxins from a variety of sources
• Rebuild the body through nutrition, exercise, and positive thoughts

• Avoid sugar as sugar blocks the immune system from four to six hours
• Sugar makes our bodies acidic and affects the pH levels
• When the body becomes acidic, the body draws calcium from the bones to neutralize the pH levels.

• Week one - Kidneys, urinary tract, and intestinal tract
• Week two - Lymphatic system
• Week three - Liver and gallbladder
• Week four - Blood, circulation, respiratory, and skin

Return to table of topics

DIABETES

There are a lot of books on diabetes; some do talk about reversing diabetes using nutrition. What I like about Dr. Bernard’s book, is that he explains the role of fat in the diet and how it can aggravate diabetes. We have a more recent resource written by Dr. Mark Hyman, MD about controlling blood sugar with a book review. (Updated 03/15/2016)

Books on Diabetes:

The Blood Sugar Solution (2012) by Mark Hyman, MD. (Publisher: Little, Brown and Company) (Added 03/15/2016)

Book Review:

This resource by Dr. Mark Hyman, MD offers further insight into issues relating to diabetes and obesity, also being referred to as diabesity. This is a resource to counteract sugar health issues through a number of means. It actually discusses a blueprint for a different medical approach, referred to as functional medicine. Functional medicine is interested in adressing causes behind ill health rather than addressing the symptoms. Functional health focuses on keeping people healthy and functional, instead of us deteriorating and unable to function in a normal manner. Diabesity can be prevented, treated, and reversed.

This resource can be covered under a number of different categories. However, we have it under diabetes as the author focuses on blood sugar issues.

Obesity and type 2 diabetes is now a global epidemic. The real cause is insulin resistance. Dr. Hyman offers a different perspective on health issues relating to diabetes. One of the more interesting comments presented by Dr. Hyman is that we need to measure both our blood sugar and insulin levels. It is the higher insulin levels that is the critical factor in diabetes. The higher our insulin levels are, the more insulin resistance we experience. It is also a major factor in gaining weight and expanding waistlines, as well. Apparently, insulin is a factor in premature aging. Dr. Hyman recomends testing for insulin levels, which is different from testing one's blood sugar. The agressive lowering of blood sugar levels actually led to more deaths and heart attacks. What drugs do for those with type 2 diabetes, is actually increases the levels of insulin when that is not the problem. It is insulin resistance. Hypoglycemia, low blood sugar, is an early sign of insulin resistance.

Dr. Hyman addresses seven myths regarding diabetes. We mention four of these myths.

To treat disease or more importantly bring back our health, it takes a number of factors, besides diet and nutrition. Dr. Mark Hyman offers a six week program along with quizes to measure your progress before and after. He covers a number of concepts and we have listed them below in a table.

Next, we have a table listing a number of medical tests that Dr. Hyman uses, depending upon the patient's needs.

This resource is over 400 pages and includes considerable information to help people live healthier lives, more importantly regain their health. For people with more serious conditions, he recommends additional steps as well as professional help. It does address the political issues and regulatory issues affecting American medical care. One fact presented is that food advertising geared to children are banned in Norway, Sweden, and UK.

A number of additional resources are available on Dr. Hyman's website, such as the food elimination diet and more details about medical testing. This resource includes recipes and meal plans, supplementation for specific issues, resources, and an index. (Added 03/15/2016).

Website for Dr. Mark Hyman, MD

For more information about Dr. Mark Hyman, he has the following website. It is: www.bloodsugarsolution.com. (Added 03/15/2016)

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Dr. Neal Bernard’s Program for Reversing Diabetes (2007) by Neal D. Bernard, MD. (Publisher: Rodale) (Note: This book also includes menus and recipes.)

How to prevent and treat diabetes with natural medicine (2003) by Michael Murray and Michael Lyon, MD. (Publisher: Riverhead Bookds)

Syndrome X: the complete nutritional program to prevent and reverse insulin resistance (2000) by Jack Challem, Burton Berkson, MD, and Melissa Diane Smith. (Publisher: John Wiley)

Book review:

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DIGESTION

The key to optimum health begins with your digestion. The book on Gut Solutions offers a comprehensive overview on how your digestive system works. It also cover digestive disorders and their treatment. The fourth book, The Healthy Gut Workbook, is designed for patient education on digestive disorders. A newer book, called the Microbiome Diet, offers a different perspective on our digestive system and expands the concept of our digestive flora into a broader context. (Updated 06/08/2012, 10/02/2014)

Books on Digestion:

Digestive Wellness, 3rd ed. (2005) by Elizabeth Lipski. (Publisher: McGraw-Hill)

(Note: The book covers what helps your digestive system to perform at its best.) (Note: This book discusses the concept of functional medicine or functional health, where health care focuses on how well your body is functioning, as opposed to waiting for a more serious “disease” situation. Our U.S. healthcare system focuses on treating “diseases” as opposed to promoting functional health.)

Food Intolerance: What it is and how to cope with it () by Robert Buist.(Publisher: Prism Press)

( Note: This book has lot of recipes.)

Gut Solutions: How to solve your digestive problems naturally, 2nd ed. (2011) by Brenda Watson with Leonard Smith, MD, Suzin Stockton, and Jamey Jones. (Publisher: Renew Life Press and Information Services)

Book review:

The digestive system starts with chewing foods in the mouth, the food traveling through the digestive system, and its remnants eliminated from the colon. The digestive system provides three major functions. One, it transfers nutrients from the food into the body. Two, the digestive system removes wastes and toxins from the food and the body. The third function, the digestive system, especially the intestines, functions as part of the immune system. A healthy digestive system is essential and needed for optimum health.

Various health disorders connected with digestion are covered, starting with the esophageal, the stomach, the intestinal, and three accessory organs: the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

A number of health issues are associated with digestion or the digestive system. This includes Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Heartburn (Acid Reflux), Candidiasis, Diarrhea, Gluten Sensitivity, Irritable Bowl Disease (Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis), Leaky Gut Syndrome, Parasitic Disease, NAFLD/NASH, and other digestive issues.

Some digestive disorders, with coments:

1. Candida/Candiadiasis - With the increased use of antibiotics, candida is now probably much more common today. Candida can also be an underlying factor in children having learning disabilities and hyperacitivy. Candida mycotoxins can lead to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Stool tests identifying candida are available. Treatment of candida requires major lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and nutritional supplementation.

2. Constipation - Constipation can cause a number of problems. The problem with stools taking too long a time to leave the body, is that the wastes in the stool can be reabsorbed into the body. People need to do anywhere from one to three bowel movements a day, totaling in length approximately 18 inches. Constipation can be a subclinical symptom of hypothyroidism. Another common cause of constipation can be a magnesium deficiency.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - It is a condition where food from the stomach goes back up into the esophagus (the tube leading down into the stomach). It is really chronic heartburn. There are a number of causes. Some of them include: overeating, eating too rapidly, overweight, fatty foods and fried foods, beverages with caffeine, sugar, insufficient water intake, stress, and alcoholic beverages. Food allergies and sensitivities, especially wheat and dairy, can play a role in GERD. Inadequate or excessive amount of hydrochloric acid can aggravate GERD. As we become older, the production of stomach acid declines. A number of health conditions can result from GERD. This includes allergies, asthma, autoimmune disorders, gallbladder disease, iron and calcium deficiencies, and others. The standard medical treatment is covered, with what they are supposed to do and their drawbacks.

4. Heartburn - For occasional outbursts of heartburn, losing weight, avoiding sensitive foods, smaller and more frequent meals, and improving the bowel function can address heartburn.

5. Diarrhea - Diarrhea can have many different causes. It can be acute or chronic. In acute situations, it is generally the body's way of getting rid of a substance it cannot tolerate. In chronic situations, it important to identify the underlying cause.

6. Gluten Sensitivity - Gluten is a protein found in wheat and other grains. One component, an amino acid sequence, in today's wheat is 33-mer. It can trigger an inflammatory response. Gluten can also damage the cells lining the small intestines. When the villa are destroyed, nutrients cannot be absorbed into the body via the blood stream. This is called malabsorption. For every person diagnosed as being celiac, eight other people are also considered to be celiac are not diagnosed. Anemia can also be a sign of gluten sensitivity. Enterolab has developed a more sensitive test to identify anti-gliadin antibody in the stool. For the body to completely heal from gluten exposure and damage, it can take six months.

7. Irritable Bowel Disease - Two types of irritable bowel disease exists. The first one, Crohn's Disease, can affect any area of the intestines. The second one, ulcerative colitis, generally affects the lower portion of the intestines. Food sensitivities play a role in these conditions. These conditions can also cause other health issues.

8. Lactose Intolerance - The body is unable to digest milk sugar. This is different from a milk and casein allergy.

9. Leaky Gut Syndrome - This is an important concept, the leaky gut. This means that the lining of the intestines is porous, and leaks toxins, undigested food particles into the body. The toxins then interact with the body's immune system. Leaky gut can be a factor in a number of health conditions such as multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, fibromyalgia, ulcerative colitis and other autoimmune conditions. Increased intake of toxins from a leaky gut, this increases the work that the liver has to do to detoxify. Some of the causes of a leaky gut are: candida, caffeine consumption, and antibiotics. If an older person is experiencing considerable dizziness and is falling, it may be worthwhile to check out if this results from having a leaky gut.

10. NAFLD/NASH - NAFLD means Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. NASH means Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis. This means that the liver has a buildup of fat, and eventually, if left untreated, and lead to scarring and inflammation of the liver. This is not caused by alcohol consumption. A major cause is obesity, along with a number of other causes including dysbosis, leaky gut, inflammation, and candida overgrowth.

11. Parasitic Disease - It may be more common than thought in the United States, and not just be a third world health issue. What facilitates this condition are: nutritional deficiencies; drugs that suppress the immune system; and, the presence of mercury in dental fillings. Parasites can affect other areas of the body, other than the digestive system. Specialized testing is needed to identify parasites. Chronic parasitic infection can lead to more serious health issues.

The book covers the use of medications for digestive disorders. There are two major problems with medications. They are: 1. Most of the medicines are not really designed for long term use. When they used for long term use, year after year, serious side effects can take place. The authors indicate that they are being overprescribed. As an example, long periods of acid blocking medications can result in increased risk of c.difficile infections, pneumonia, and osteoporis. 2. Medications really do not address the underlying pathology that is causing the digestive distress.

Some of the concepts covered include:

1. Colon Hydrotherapy - This is a super enema that cleans out the colon using clean water. It has a number of health benefits to the body. It soaks up unwanted toxins and waste from the colon.

2. Digestive Enzymes - There are three main types of digestive enzymes to digest different types of food. One is called protease, used to digest proteins. The second one is lipase, used to digest fats. The third one is amylase, used to digest carbohydrates. There are several other digestive enzymes.

3. Dysbosis - This means that there is imbalance of good vs bad bacteria in the intestines. In this case, we don't have enough of the good bacteria, and too much of the bad bacteria. This affects nutrient absorption.

4. Elimination Channels - There are seven channels of elimination of toxins from the body. They are: liver, lungs, skin, kidney, blood, lymphatic, and colon.

5. Fiber - There are two types of fiber, soluable and insoluable. Fiber does three roles. One, it helps to curb the appetite. Two, fiber excretes more calories from food. Three, fiber slows down the conversion of carbohydrates and the absorption of sugar from food into the blood stream. Ideally, we need about 35 grams of fiber on a daily basis for optimum digestive function.

6. HCI or hydrochloric acid (Stomach Acid) - According to the book, hydrochloric acid is one of nature's most essential antibiotics. Proper levels of hydrochloric acid are needed for nutrient absorption in the stomach. It helps absorb nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium and zinc. Stomach acid breaks down proteins into amino acids. It is also needed for kill pathogenic organisms in the stomach. The stomach lining gland also produces pepsin.

7. Herxheimer (or die-off reactions) - During the detoxification process, toxins are released faster than the body can handle. The symptoms can be the following: fever, fatigue, diarrhea, cramps, flu-like symptoms, and skin eruptions. These symptoms usually last for a day or two, no longer than a week.

8. Probiotics - Probiotics serve a number of purposes. It protects the body from pathogens, supports immunity, maintains intestinal barrier, reduces inflammation, enhances detoxification, supports nutrient absorption, and manufactures vitamins. Before the advent of refrigeration, fermented foods were more commonly eaten, like yogurt and saurkraut.

For most of these digestive disorders, Brenda Watson recommends the comprehensive stool analysis (CSA) from Doctor's Data and the Food Sensitivity Test from EnteroLab. These tests can be ordered online, done in the home, and the results delivered to the patient's home. Other tests are suggested, depending upon what the condition is.

Two tests that can be done at home are: 1. The Apple Cider Vineger Test: Take one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar after eating. If it relieves symptoms, the stomach may not have enough or producing enough acid (HCI). If you feel more burning, then you have too much acid. 2. Stool Transit Time Test: Take 5 to 12 charcoal tablets all at once and note the date and time. When the stools appear colored black, note the second date and time. Calculate the number of hours. It should appear within 16 to 30 hours.

Treatment is generally the same for most of these digestive disorders. One, is to clean up the diet. Two, avoid sensitive foods. Commonly, gluten and dairy are two sensitive foods.  Three, detoxify and there are different levels of detoxification. Four, take probiotics. Five, add glutamine with gamma oryzanol with the meals. This will help the digestive system heal.

It is a well written resource, with colorful illustrations, resource directory, a bibliography, and an index. (Added 06/08/2012)

The Healthy Gut Workbook: Whole-Body Healing for Heartburn, Ulcers, Constipation, IBS, Diverticulosis & more (2010) by Victor S. Sierpina, MD (Publisher: New Harbinger Publications).

Book review:

The Healthy Gut Workbook is based on functional medicine. This resource is a workbook and is designed more for patient use and education. It includes questionnaires, a food diary worksheet, doing a food elimination diet, fiber, information about foods, probiotics, and inflammation information. It covers a listing of food allergy symptoms. There are two types: rapid onset and slow onset. A rapid onset (IgA) can include shock (anaphylaxis), itchy rash, angioedema (swelling), diarrhea, wheezing, light-headedness, and etc. The slow onset (IgG) can include fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, attention disorder, recurrent ear infections, dark circles under the eyes, abdominal pain, eczema, arthritis, muscle soreness, enlarged lymph nodes, and etc.

Some of the digestive disorders covered include diarrhea, constipation, heartburn and reflux, liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and etc. The author covers different types of treatments for each of the digestive disorders, covering lifestyle options, conventional medical/surgical approaches, botanical and nutritional supplements, and other integrative, functional, holistic solutions.

It offers information to better understand gut health, the digestive process and treatment options. This resource includes a bibliography and an index.) (Added 07/05/2012)

The Microbiome Diet: the scientifically proven way to restore your gut health and achieve permanent weight loss (2014) by Raphael Kellman, MD. (Publisher: Da Capo Lifelong Books)

Book Review:

Dr. Raphael Kellman, MD has written a book expanding upon the role microbes play in human health. He suggests dietary strategies to promote health and weight loss. Many of us are familiar with the presence of bacteria or flora in the intestines. A healthy mix of bacteria is essential to human health and the immune system. Microbes play a role beyond what is found in the intestines. The more diverse our microbes are, the healthier we will be. The microbiome refers to the bacteria that lives inside us and all around us. It turns out that we are more microbial than cellular.

A healthy microbiome plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy weight, in our digestive system, our nervous system, and our immune system. Dr. Kellman talks about the microbiome diet that addressyh issues. Dr. Kellman lists the many problems - from obesity to depression to diabetes - that result from an unhealthy microbiome. He recommends the microbiome diet as an alternative to elimination diets and testing for food sensitivities. The microbiome determines the following:

1. The foods you crave
2. When you feel hungry
3. How food is metabolized

• The first phase has four R's.
  1. Remove the unhealthy bacteria and foods that unbalance the microbiome
  2. Replace the digestive enzymes needed for optimum digestion
  3. Reinoculate with probiotics (bacteria) and prebiotics (foods and supplements that nourish the bacteria and keep it healthy)
  4. Repair the intestinal lining which have most likely become permeable and releasing partially digested food into your blood stream (and causing food sensitivities)
• The second phase is called the metabolic boost.
• The third phase is called the lifetime tune-up.

This book offers a different perspective on digestive health. The microbiome diet is designed to reset the metabolism and help the body burn fat. It can also combat anxiety and depression, and help clear up brain fog. The sugar that he recommends is lakanto. The book includes meal plans, recipes, resources, notes and an index. (Added 10/02/2014)

Biographical Information about Author

Dr. Raphael Kellman, MD is a medical pioneer who takes a humanistic, holistic and innovative approach to patient care. His diagnoses and treatments are informed by the latest medical research and administered with compassion and kindness. He believes we are more than the sum of our parts and draws on a deep understanding of systems science, to promote an individual’s health based on genetics, behavior and the external environment. He practices in New York City.(Added 10/02/2014)

Website for Dr. Raphael Kellman, MD

For more information about Dr. Raphael Kellman, his website address is: http://raphaelkellmanmd.com/. (Added 10/02/2014)

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Stomach ailments and digestive disturbances (1997) by Michael T. Murray. (Publisher: Prima Publishing)

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ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

After we think that we have covered all of our bases in our pursuit for optimum health from a nutrition point of view, we learn about another factor impacting optimum human health.

It is our exposure to electromagnetic radiation (it can also be referred to fields). It comes from a number of sources. A major source are electronic devices, especially cell phones. This electromagnetic radiation unfortunately affects human cells. A term that has come up with this topic is electro-pollution. (Note: It is suggested that you read the book on cell phones before reading the book on molecular resonance effect technology. Electromagnetic radiation is a highly technical topic, a topic that everyone needs to understand.)

The first resource about cell phones.  The second resource is about Molecular Resonance Effect Technology, also known as MRET.  It is used for water and electromagnetic radiation.  The third resource is a journal article on wireless radiation and its effect on autism along with treatment.  (Added 03/25/2012)

Books on Electromagnetic Radiation:

Cell Phones: Invisible Hazards in the Wireless Age (2001) by Dr. George Carlo and Martin Schram (Publisher: Carroll & Graf Publishers, Inc.)

Book review:

This exellent resource explains in more depth the issues and problems of electromagnetic radiation and fields in fairly easy to understand language.

Initially, cell phones were introduced as new technology without any initial testing as to its safety for human life. When reports starting coming out about health concerns regarding cell phones, the CTIA (the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association and association for cell phone manufacturers) hired Dr. George Carlo, an epidemiologist.  They gave him a budget of 25 million dollars to research and investigate on the safety issues associated with cell phones. As Dr. Carlo's initial area of expertise was with epidemiology, not electromagnetic radiation/fields, he had to learn what electromagnetic energy was about. Before research could be implemented on the effects of electromagnetic fields on people/human health, they had to develop testing tools, especially tools to measure invisible radio frequencies.  This includes the science of dosimetry.  These waves travel through human tissue. There were concerns about the research on cell phone use on human health being funded by the industry. However, Dr. Carlo put in safeguards, with a peer review process, so that the research would be valid and based on the scientific method.

Initially, the research results did not show evidence of harm.  However, as the research continued and became more sophisticated, a different report emerged. Some of the issues included damage to DNA and genetic changes to cells, its impact on heart pacemakers, and cancer. The term micronuclei testing is explained. This research endeavor actually was an international effort. Britain has banned the use of cell phones in children, as it was discovered that children's brains were more susceptible to the effects of electromagnetic fields/radiation.

For those more interested in the technical aspects of cell phone safety, the following terms are covered: comet assay (measures DNA damage), dosimetry (science of measuring the amount of radiation that emanates from an antenna, micronuclei (fragments of DNA that have defined membranes and an indication of genetic damage), and SAR (specific absorption rate, amount of energy from an antenna that passes through biological tissue during a specified time frame).

Much of the conflict between an industry and the safety of their product is similar to the tobacco industry conflict with research findings that did show harm to human health. This book does an excellent job of explaining the history of this research endeavor, the issues behind cell phone use and other electromagnetic radiation/fields. 

Molecular Resonance Effect Technology: The Dynamic Effects of Human Physiology (2008) by Dr. Howard Fisher and Dr. Igor Smirnov. (Publisher: Britannia Printers Inc.)

Book review:

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ELIMINATION DIET

The three most common foods that can cause problems for people are dairy products (with the exception of butter), gluten grains (which include wheat, rye, and barley), and sugar. This is a process that people can do for themselves, checking out what they are sensitive to. When undertaking an elimination diet, it is important to test one food at a time and check for reactions which can occur immediately, two hours later, four hours later, the next day, and in some instances two days later.

Book on Elimination Diet:

Tracking Down Hidden Food Allergy (1985) by William G. Crook, MD. (Publisher: Professional Books)

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ENERGY MEDICINE

While the emphasis of this website is on the role of nutrition in health, it is helpful to understand energy medicine. Energy medicine in this case relates to physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects as it relates to health. We have one resource by Dr. C. Norman Shealy, MD, PhD who has written a book called Energy Medicine. Energy medicine can be considered another piece of the puzzle to understanding our health and healing whatever ails us. (Added 06/14/2016)

Energy Medicine: practical applications and scientific proof (2011) by C. Norman Shealy, MD, Ph.D. (Publisher: 4th Dimension Press). (Added 06/14/2016)

Book Review:

This resource covering energy medicine covers a dimension that occurs in our bodies and consciousness. It is called energy and it has an effect on our health. Not all health issues can be resolved through nutrition, drugs, and surgery, though nutrition is needed as the basis for good health. Dr. Shealy covers a number of health approaches in energy medicine, some of which have been in existence for thousands of years. Energy medicine is also used to describe phenomenon that is not easily seen or understood, like the effectiveness of homeopathy and acupuncture. Furthermore, all of our body systems are interrelated. Disease is a result of the interaction between physical, mental, emotional, chemical, and electromagnetic factors.

There is a chapter on electricity. We need to understand that our bodies have an electrical component and we need to be aware of our exposure to electricity and its affect on our health. Actually, mainstream medicine does use electricity in a variety of ways. This includes EEG, EKG, X-ray, MRI, Electromyography and etc. The body does function as a battery. It is the actual impulses that carry information to the nerves, muscles, and organs that are electical in nature. Electrical disturbances involve the interplay between sodium and potassium (two major minerals). There is growing concern over our exposure to excess electromagnetic energy such as cell phones, wireless transmissions, living near high voltage electrical lines, and etc. There is a meter, a tri-fold meter, that can measure electromagnetic energy. This chapter covers the history behind the role of electricity in the body, the devices used, and it's uses in allopathic medicine. Emotional, chemical, and physical overload or nutritional stresses can interfere with body's electrical function. It can result in:

• anxiety
• brain fog
• difficulty in following directions
• fear
• feeling scattered
• mood changes

Energy can be defined as potential or kinetic. An example of potential energy is wood. Wood has the potential to provide heat. Kinetic is active energy. An example is electricity.

Energy exists in a variety of forms. They are:

• Electrical energy
• Gravitational energy
• Kinetic energy
• Light energy
• Magnetic energy
• Nuclear energy
• Thermal energy
• Spring energy
• Subtle energy

Energy medicine also mentions the seven chakras. They have to do with different parts of the body and each part represents a meaning. The chakra concepts comes from India and it relates to different areas of the body. The seven chakras are:

Dr. Shealy documents the various types of energy medicine approaches. With some of them, he describes in detail on how they work. Below is a table listing a number of these approaches.

Edgar Cayce is referred to as the father of holistic and energy medicine. He lists the following as causative factors in disease. They are:

• Attitude
• Glandular malfunction
• Improper acid and alkaline balance
• Improper diet
• Incoordination and imbalance of the circulation system
• Incoordination and imbalance of the nervous system
• Infection
• Karma (Defined as the force created by a person's actions (good or bad deeds) that will determine what that person's next life will be like. The force created by a person's actions that some people believe causes good or bad things to happen to that person. This concept stems from Hinduism and Buddhism.)
• Overexertion
• Overtoxication
• Poor assimilation and poor elimination
• Spinal subluxation
• Stress

Energy medicine has a place in helping all of us to acheive optimum health, healing that is safe. Our attitudes and emotions definitely affect our health. Past life events can play a role in our current lives. All illnesses have some disorder of the psyche, especially our connection with the ideal self, our soul. Inflammation also plays a role in having health issues. Foods that can calm down systematic inflammation are listed. The author talks about the immune system and the types of cells that compromise the immune system function. Autoimmune diseases occur when antibodies attack the body itself. Five types are specified and they are:

• IgA - Concentrates in body fluids such as tears, saliva, secretions in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract.
• IgD - Regulates B cells activity.
• IgE - Evolved as a response to parasites but also present in allergic reactions.
• IgG - Coats microorganisms.
• IgM - Combines in star shaped clusters, remaining in the blood stream and effective in killing bacteria.

While allopathic medicine has a specific place in medicine, it is designed to treat acute and serious problems. However, there are a number of health problems that can be better treated by energy medicine as it results in healing in a safe manner. This includes depression and pain.

The author made it a point to be familiar with the various protocols considered to be energy medicine. It covers a considerable amount of information relating to energy medicine as it is 330 pages. It even includes some exercises that people can try doing on themselves. A test that can measure free radicals in the body is Oxidata® test. The author assumes that the reader has some familiarity with chakras. This resource includes a bibliography, a listing of resources, and a detailed listing of what is considered alternative medicine. (Added 06/14/2016)

Website for Dr. Norman Shealy:

For more information about Dr. Shealy and his work, Dr. Norman Shealy has the following website: https://normshealy.com/. (Added 06/14/2016)

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ENVIRONMENTAL ILLNESS

Environmental illness is when people become sick to all substances in the environment. This includes chemicals, plants, animals, foods, and mold. Another name for environmental illnes is clinical ecology. Dr. Sherry Rogers, MD is a physician who experienced environmental illness. She has written a number of books related to this topic. They include: The Detoxify or Die, E.I. Syndrome, Tired or Toxic, You are What You Ate, The Cure is in the Kitchen, Macro Mellow and Wellness Against All Odds.) The book reviews are on Detoxify or Die, E.I. Syndrome and Wellness Against All Odds. (Added 8/29/2011, updated 9/9/2011)

Books on Environmental Illness:

Detoxify or Die (2002) by Sherry Rogers, MD. (Publisher: Sand Key Company)

Book review:

When reading this book Detoxify or die, by Dr. Sherry Rogers, MD, one is reminded of the book called the Silent Spring by Rachel Carson. Furthermore, after reading this book, everyone needs to know basic chemistry, what is safe or not safe to human and other life forms.

Dr. Rogers has written an excellent resource on the dangers and the effects of chemicals and other toxins to human health (and other forms of life on this planet). She writes about the five major categories of toxins to our health; one, plastics/phthalates; two, pesticides; three, heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium, aluminum, antimony and arsenic among others); four, chemicals added to the water supply (chlorine and fluoride); and five, chemicals that end up in our air or ground (some of it due to chemical spills). The author covers specific toxic chemicals and their effect on human health (which includes learning disabilities). The combination of all these chemicals plays a major causative role in cancer, including cancer in children and cancer in whales.

The dangers of plastics/phthalates are that they are substances that get confused by the body as being part of the hormone process. They are considered to be environmental endocrine disrupters (EED). This can be a major factor in girls experiencing puberty at younger ages, other sexual abnormalities, impair fertility, among other effects on human health and mental health.

The dangers of chemicals are that they end up in the food chain, starting with the soil, absorbed by plants, moving into animal tissue, and ultimately, in human tissue.

Dr. Rogers writes about the various ways we can detoxify and reduce our toxic load in our bodies and regain our health. Four different methods for detoxification are presented. One includes drinking alkaline water using an Alkaline Water Machine. Two, one can take a detox cocktail (a simple one includes a heaping teaspoon of vitamin C, 300 to 600 milligrams of Lipoic Acid, and 400 to 800 milligrams of glutathione taken with 1-2 glasses of water). A third technique is the detox enema. A fourth technique covers saunas. Saunas can help the body remove the toxins via two types of saunas (regular sauna and Far Infrared Sauna). (Note: The Far Infrared Sauna is better for patients who are frailer and unable to handle a regular sauna.) In addition to the methods presented by Dr. Rogers, certain foods help the immune system promote health. This includes the foods from the cabbage family.

Dr. Rogers covers the role of electromagnetic energy needed to help heal bones and osteoporosis and QRS (Quantum Resonance Systems). She also covers the role of silicon for bone health.

The detoxification process is covered in two phrases. This process depletes and uses up nutrients, another reason for nutritional supplementation. Zinc, for example, helps to remove cadmium. Magnesium is important for detoxification. Kyolic (garlic) helps with detoxification. Dr. Rogers recommends appropriate tests and talks about the drawbacks of some medications as a factor in promoting illness, rather than reversing illness.

In this book, Dr. Rogers redefines as to what are the major cause of disease and illness. It is not viruses or germs. It is our exposure and overload to chemicals and our body’s inability to remove these toxins and EED. Toxins and EED affect quite a number of health and behavioral conditions.

Hopefully, all health care practitioners and informed patients will obtain a copy of this resource and use this information to enable their patients or themselves to get well.

Like all of her books, Dr. Rogers includes an extensive research bibliography and resources.) (Added 12/14/2011)

The E.I. Syndrome, Revised: an RX for environmental illness (1995) by Sherry Rogers, MD (Publisher: SK Publishing)

Book review:

E.I. stands for environmental illness. This occurs when a person becomes allergic to everything in the environment. This includes foods, chemicals, inhalants, molds, and pollens. The symptoms of environmental illness can affect any system and/or organ in the body: eyes, ears, nose, and throat; respiratory; cardiovascular; gastrointestinal; skin; muscle/joint; neurological; genitourinary; and metabolic/endocrine. Dr. Rogers provides you a list of the various symptoms. Environmental illness expands the definition of allergy beyond the skin and lungs to one or more target organs in the body. This book discusses more advanced diagnostic methods and treatment for those experiencing serious environmental illness.

The first method is reducing the total load starting with the bedroom (as most of us spend at least 8 hours a day in the bedroom). This means removing items and furnishings that aggravate environmental illness and using items/materials that do not aggravate environmental illness. The total load is defined with the following 12 boxes: inhalants, food allergies, chemical hypersensitivity (includes formaldehyde), newer molds, phenol, Candida, nutrition, hormone hypersensitivity (yes, hormones within the body), toxins, stress, miscellaneous, and mystery.

The second method is through food elimination diets (and keeping detailed records of what was eaten and how one felt). Two types of food elimination diets are covered in detail. One is the lazy bones diet (a diagnostic tool) and another one is rare foods diet (also a diagnostic tool). When following one of these diets, one needs to use organic food sources.

A third method is through allergy testing known as the provocation and neutalization methods where a specific allergy substance is tested one at a time and the degree of the exposure. This helps determine what is needed to neutralize the body's allergy reaction by creating IgG antibodies. These IgG antibodies counteract the allergy reaction. This type of allergy testing has to be done properly or it will be ineffective. The testing environment needs to have an absolute minimum of chemicals, molds, inhalants, and any other substance that can trigger a reaction. Staff cannot be wearing perfumes and other substances that give off aromas while testing E.I. patients.

A fourth method is the use of food rotation diet selecting foods within food families (4 to 8 day rotation diet).

The fifth method includes nutritional supplementation to correct nutritional deficiencies. Initially, the initial phase can be considered a corrective one. Once the nutritional levels are where they should be, the dosage needs to be modified to a maintenance level.

For really sick E.I. patients, they need to be sent to an environmental unit that is ecologically clean and hypoallergenic. The environmental unit was originally started by Dr. Theron Randoph, MD in Chicago. Dr. William J. Rea, MD operates one in Dallas, Texas. Universal reactors are among the most sensitive of E.I. patients. They react to almost everything. Blood or serum tests can be run to measure insecticide levels. The approach to treating environmental illness requires an active, participatory, and responsible role by people experiencing environmental illness. It focuses on identifying the causes of illness. It can take months to treat serious environmental illness. The E.I. patient needs to play an active role in regaining and maintaining their health. If the causes are few and simple, it can be treated much more quickly. (Note: This approach is a comprehensive approach and highlights the limitations of the "managed care approach".) (Added 9/10/2011))

Wellness Against All Odds (1994) by Sherry A. Rogers, MD. (Publisher: Prestige Publishing)

Book review:

Dr. Rogers covers nutritional deficiences common in the American population, such as copper, zinc, and magnesium. People with Alzheimers have half the levels of vitamin A and E. Magnesium (a mineral) is needed for 300 enzymes. Dr. Rogers specifies which test more accurately measures the magnesium levels in the cells (not the blood stream). Blood tests do not measure accurately the magnesium levels within cells. In fact, people die from having an undiagnosed magnesium deficiency.

Also, we are being exposed to more chemicals in our environment. More nutrients are needed to detoxify the body. Medications can cause nutritional deficiencies. High cholesterol can be a result of deficiencies in copper, chromium, magneseum, and vitamin C. This book covers the benefits of detoxification and explains how a coffee enema works.

Furthermore, in this book, Dr. Rogers covers how certain nutrients are able to treat specific cancers successfully.

An individual's total nutritional picture needs to be assessed and evaluated (not focus on a single nutrient). Dr. Rogers presents the concept of "total load" as it affects human health. Total load is more than the nutritional status, it is also one's exposure to environmental toxins, one's spiritual status, and the support they receive from people around them. This book includes references to the medical literature.)

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ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS

As the number of chemicals increases and used in the United States and elsewhere, most of these chemicals are not tested for their safety and effectiveness on human, animal, and even plant health. However, one place where we can minimize our exposure to toxins that can cause harm to our health is in our homes. Environmental toxins besides chemicals also include noise exposure, radiation, building materials, workplace stress, and personal care products. We have an excellent resource that addresses the various steps one can take to keep our homes as clean and healthy as possible. Making these baby steps in cleaning up our homes can go a long way keeping ourselves as healthy as possible. It appears that new products and technical gadgets are designed in this country without first testing their impact on human health, especially for children who are more vulnerable than adults. We, in a sense, become the actual guinea pigs. We have one resource that covers environmental toxins in the home called The Healthy Home by Dave Wentz and Dr. Myron Wentz.

This section list books that discuss in detail specific chemicals and other environmental toxins, what they are, problems with their use, and other information. The first one is called The Household Pollutants Guide by the Center in the Public Interest. The second one is Work is Dangerous to your Health by Jeanne M. Stellman, Ph.D. and Susan M. Daum, MD. The third book addresses the impact of environmental toxins on children's health. Children and fetuses are more vulnerable to effects of toxins in the environment.

This website covers other topics like detoxification and specific substances that are not good for us (Detoxification, Bromine, Fluoride, Mercury, and etc.). (Added 06/11/2017, updated 09/11/2017, updated 12/11/2018)

Book on Environmental Toxins:

The Healthy Home: simple truths to protect your family from hiddden household dangers (2011) by Dave Wentz and Dr. Myron Wentz with Donna K. Wallace. (Publisher: Vanguard Press) (Added 06/11/2017)

The Household Pollutants Guide (1978) by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. (Publisher: Anchor Books) (Added 09/11/2017)

Work is Dangerous to your Health: a handbook of health hazards in the workplace and what you can do about them (1973) by Jeanne M. Stellman, Ph.D. and Susan M. Daum, MD. (Publisher: Vanguard Press) (Added 09/11/2017)

Children and Environmental Toxins: what everyone needs to know (2018) by Philip J. Landrigan, MD, MSC, and FAAP and Mary M. Landrigan, MPA. (Publisher: Oxford University Press) (Added 12/11/2018)

Book Review:

If there is ever a book that needs to be in the hands of every public official, legislator, pediatrician and educator, it is this book. It is also book that needs to be read by every voter and everyone planning a family. The growing use of chemicals in the past century is emerging as a major threat to everyone's health, especially children. This includes animal life, insect life, bird life, sea life, and plant life. When chemicals are used regardless of where and when, the issue is where do these chemicals end up? Are these chemicals tested for their safety before being used? In a number of cases, chemicals can spread into the atmosphere, the air, as well as the soil, and in the ground water, rivers, and streams and remain in that environment for a considerable length of time. It some cases, it can remain in the environment for decades.

Over 200 synthetic chemicals are found in bodies, including breast milk. As for children's health, there has been a dramatic increases in non-communicable diseases. This includes:

• ADD/ADHD
• asthma (one in ten children)
• autism (now one in 68 children)
• birth defects (certain birth defects have more than doubled)
• cancer - leukemia and brain cancer
• childhood cancer
• diabetes
• learning disabilities (one in six children)
• lowering IQ levels
• obesity - childhood obesity has tripled
• reproductive problems becoming more common
• Type 2 diabetes is occurring at younger ages

• lead
• methylmercury
• organophosphate
• pesticides
• polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

• Children are more exposed to environmental toxins because of their smaller body size.
• Children's metabolic pathways are immature and are still developing.
• Children are undergoing rapid development and growth and this process can easily be disrupted by environmental toxins.
• Children have years ahead of them and are vulnerable to diseases with a latency or incubation period (delayed onset of disease).

• One, chemical toxicity in children can occur with minimal or no symptoms. This is known as subclinical toxicity. (Note: Subclinical toxicity can be measured by IQ tests, x rays, and lung function tests.) It turns out that toxic chemicals can leave a biochemical footprint in the body.
• Two, there are social implications for subclinical toxicity in our society. There are long term implications especially for school systems and the ability of children to learn. On a long term basis, a number of people in our prisons have learning and behavioral issues.
• Three, epidemiological studies (health outcomes on specific populations) based on advances in exposure and measurement technology are now possible to measure the real impact of environmental toxins on children.
• Four, studies that have made use of new, sensitive, biological markers on health outcomes.
• Five, after decoding the human genome, scientists now better understand the impact of the environment on our DNA and why children have different susceiptibilties to toxic chemicals.

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ENZYMES

Enzymes are an overlooked aspect needed for optimal health. The best way to obtain enzymes is through raw vegetables and fruits and through juicing. It apparently plays a number of roles besides one for digestion in the body. (Updated 02/03/2017, Updated 09/11/2017)

Books on Enzymes:

Digestive Enzymes: 20 million Americans suffer from digestive disorders. Are you one of them? (1993) by Jeffrey Bland. (Publisher: Keats Publishing)

The Complete Book of Enzyme Therapy: a practical guide to using natural power of enzymes to maximize your health and combat a host of common disorders, ranging from allergies to cardiovascular disease to indigestion (1999) by Dr. Anthony J. Cichoke. (Publisher: Avery Publishing) (Added 09/11/2017)

The Enzyme Advantage: For health providers and people who care about their health (2015) by Dr. Howard F. Loomis, Jr. DC and Arnold Mann. (Publisher: 21st Century Nutrition Publishing) (Added 02/03/2017)

Dr. Howard F. Loomis, Jr. a chiropractor, developed an in-depth understanding of the role plant enzymes play in digestive and physical health. Plant enzymes are an important part of our health. If enzymes are not present in the food, then the body must utilize and mobilize the immune system to complete the digestive process. With the reduced dietary intake of enzymes in our food supply and diet (due to shelf life), this could explain the increased levels of degenerative diseases that are occurring at earlier ages. It actually takes time (years) before food enzyme deficiencies show up. If someone has an inefficient digestive system, food enzymes can help move essential nutrients past this.

In evaluating a patient's health, Dr. Loomis is looking to see if there is a carbohydrate deficiency, protein deficiency, or lipid deficiency. In other words, is the digestive system properly digesting these types of foods? Are the necessary plant enzymes present in the right amounts? To achieve optimum health, the body needs to be in balance, and not have a deficiency or excess of any particular substance or nutrient. This resource includes an index and bibliography. (Added 02/03/2017)

The enzyme cure: how plant enzymes can help you relieve 36 health problems (1998) by Lita Lee with Lisa Turner. (Publisher: InnoVision Health Media)

Enzymes: the missing link to health (2013) by Susan M. Lark, MD. (Publisher: Women's Wellness Publishing, LLC) (Added 02/03/2017)

Dr. Susan M. Lark, MD discusses the essential roles enzymes play in a healthy digestive system and in our health. Digestive enzymes play a role in:

• auto-immune diseases
• cancer
• heart disease
• infections
• inflammatory diseases

• digestion
• energy, converting food to energy
• removal of wastes
• break up inflammation

• difficulty in thinking clearly and quickly
• experience excessive stiffness and/or soreness after heavy exercise
• experience low levels of energy despite eating an adequate amount of food
• restricted ability to eat a wide variety of foods
• slow recovery from an injury

Tests to assess enzyme function listed below:

This book was written to be used for educating the patient and to work with a qualified healthcare practitioner. This book offers a number of suggestions to increase enzyme consumption, including juicing recipes. The author also suggests dosages for some of the enzyme supplementation. It covers how a number of health conditions are affected by our enzyme intake and enzyme levels. (Added 02/03/2017)

Food Enzymes: the missing link to radiant health, 2nd edition (1993) by Humbart Santillo.(Publisher: Hohm Press)

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ESSENTIAL OILS

The use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes goes back centuries. It was used in ancient Egypt, in ancient Rome and Greece. It is a plant based approach for medicinal and therapeutic purposes. Essential oils are made from leaves, roots, flowers, and bark of plants. There are basically three ways essential oils can be used. It can be used as an aroma, placed on the skin, or taken internally. If placed on the skin, it can be undiluted or diluted with a carrier liquid like fractionated coconut oil.

Essential oils are different from prescription drugs that focuses on one or two molecules and many of these drugs are synthetic. Essential oils uses the plant and should not contain or include synthetic substances. We have a reference book that addresses essential oils. For those interested in using essential oils, it is important to obtain them from a reputable source and follow the directions on how to use them. One advantage of essential oils are that they are in a form easily received by the body.

We have one general resource that covers essential oils in depth. Specific essential oil companies will have their own reference guide on the use of their oils. The resources by Kymberly Keniston-Pond and Stephanie Tourles provide additional information on essential oils. (Added 03/28/2017, Updated 03//2019)

Essential oils: all-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body, and home (2016) by Susan Curtis, Pat Thomas, and Fran Johnson. (Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Limited DK, division of Penguin Random House LLC) (Added 08/15/2019)

Essential oils: your guide to understanding and using essential oils 101 (2017) by Kymberly Keniston-Pon, CIR, CFR, CCMA. (Publisher: Adamsmedia) (Added 03/28/2019)

Essential Oils Natural Remedies: the complete A-Z reference of essential oils for health and healting (2015) (Publisher: Althea Press) (Added 03/28/2017)

Stephanie Tourles's Essential Oils: a beginner's guide (2018) by Stephanie Tourles. (Publisher: Storey Publishing) (Added 03//2019) (Added 03/28/2017)

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EXCITOTOXINS

Generally, substances that are added to the food suppply, they are generally added for the purpose of preserving the food, additional nutritional content to the food, and in same cases, adding color to the food. Another category of substances added to food are substances that enhance the taste and flavor of the food. Unfortunately, it has been discovered that there are problems with these substances and they have been named as excitotoxins. A resource called Excitotoxins: the taste that kills discusses the effect excitotoxins have on human health, more specifically, on the human brain. (Added 05/23/2013)

Book on Excitotoxins:

Excitotoxins: the taste that kills (1997) by Russell L Blaylock, MD. (Publisher: Health Press)

Book Review:

Ever wonder why if something is different about the foods we are eating in the United States, compared the foods eaten 30 to 40 years ago? Even if we take into account the changes in our soils and agricultural practices, another answer can be the use of excitotoxins in our food processing and drinks. Dr. Russell L. Blaylock, MD, a neurosurgeon, has written a comprehensive explanation on the issues associated with excitotoxins. This book explains the structure of the brain and the roles different parts of the brain are responsible for. All parts of the brain are inter-related with each other. There are a number of circuits in the brain; and there is an electrical component as well or they function like electrical cables. The brain depends on a careful balance of excitatory and inhibitory systesm, positive and negative impulses. If this is not balanced, it can result in: minor tremors, writhing, and seizures.

Excitotoxins are primarily monosodium glutatamate (also known as MSG), and aspartame. Dr. Blaylock has seen firsthand the effects of the excitotoxins on the brain and the damage it can cause to human health and our brains. Excessive excitotoxins can cause excessive electrical activity which can result in seizures. Glucose (a type of sugar) plays a major role in brain function.

Defining Excitotoxins

Excitotoxins are substances that affect the brain by exciting the cells to the point where the cells becomes exhausted. When the brain cells become exhausted, the cells collapse from exhaustion and ‘die’. While the brain has trillions of cells, it is not good when we lose too many of these cells. At that point, it will begin to affect brain function. Excitotoxins are a type of food additive that has no nutritional benefit and does not play a role in food preservation. The excitotoxins covered in this book, they enhance the taste and flavor of the food.

Some of these excitotoxins are amino acids and others are manmade. Dr. Blaylock explains how these amino acids function and the types of amino acids. The excitatory amino acids are generally regulated by the brain and the blood brain barrier. The brain has a number of functions that keeps these excitatory amino acids under control, so that they don‘t get out of control and cause harm.

Note: actually, there are quite a few excitotoxins besides glutatmate and aspartame, about seventy. However, this book focuses on monosodium glutamate (MSG) and aspartame. When monosodium glutamate (MSG) and aspartame are combined, it is much more toxic. Another substance that can be an excitotoxins is cysteine.

Where Excitotoxins are found.

Excitotoxins are found in the following sources:

1. Hydrolyzed vegetable proteins (also contains three known other excitotoxins)
2. Natural flavoring
3. Vegetable protein

How the excitotoxins work

When we drive a car, we have a gas pedal, to accelerate the gas and propel the car forward. We also have a brake, to slow down the car. The brain cells, called neurons, do not touch each other directly. Neurotransmitters passes information between cells. They use neurotransmitters to send messages; and they also use transmitters to slow down messages. The brain regulates the presence of these transmitters. However, when the brain receives too much of substances that causes this accelerations, this adversely impacts the neurons. There is a lock and key mechanism between neurons and neurotransmitters. The neurons can be designed to handle a specific type of neurotransmitter, for example, glutamate. When the lock on the neuron is designed to handle glutamate; and the neurotransmitter is glutamate, we have a lock and key mechanism and they will connect. When there is an overload of glutamate, it is the neurons that are designed with the glutamate lock that are vulnerable to being harmed.

Populations most strongly affected by Excitotoxins

Unfortunately, two populations are particularly vulnerable to the effects of excitotoxins. It is our young and our elderly. Furthermore, it is not good for anyone.

The first population includes those brains are still growing and developing. This includes the fetus and continues until the child is six or seven years old. This also means that the mothers who are pregnant, they, too, need to avoid consuming excitotoxins as it can reach the fetus. The developing fetus has no built in mechanisms to protect it from dangerous substances or substances that do not belong in the brain. The neurons can be damaged by their exposure to excitotoxins. Damage to the frontal lobes of the brain can lead to arrested moral and social development. Areas of the brain that control endocrine functions, if they are damaged while the person is in infancy, it can cause problems later in the person‘s life. It can trigger the early onset of puberty; it can trigger diabetes. It can play a role in obesity and it doesn‘t matter how much the person eats. It is suggested that all midwives and ob/gyn physicians advise their patients to avoid eating food products containing excitotoxins.

The second population are our elderly. As people age, the blood brain barrier becomes less effective in blocking substances that can harm the brain tissue. More gaps appear in the blood brain barrier. An entire chapter has been written on the effects of excitotoxins on Alzheimer‘s. It also has a role in a number of degenerative diseases such as ALS, Parkinsons, vascular dementia, Huntingtons, and Alzheimer‘s. The brain does shrink with age.

History

It should be noted that later studies on the effects of excitotoxins were able to use more precise tools that could see more details; whereas earlier studies used less precise tools. Below is a table highlighting some of the earlier research performed on excitotoxins.

This resource includes a glossary, notes, an index, and a comprehensive listing of where monosodium glutamate (MSG) is included in foods. An additional chapter has been added called update and analysis.(Added 05/23/2013)

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FATS

We generally tend to think that all fats are bad for the body. There are actually some fats needed for optimum human health. (Updated 07/26/2016)

Books on Fats:

Eat Fat, Get Thin (2016) by Dr. Mark Hyman, MD. (Publisher: Little, Brown) (Added 07/26/2016)

Book Review:

After being told in the United States, that eating fat is unhealthy and will make us fat, this book states otherwise. This compaign was stated in 1980, pushed by Big Government, Big Agriculture, and Big Food. The diet mantra pushed us to eat more carbohydrates and less fat. Statistics on American health actually shows that instead of getting thinner, we as a nation are getting fatter. Fat was replaced by sugar and carbohydrates, and especially liquid sugar found in drinks. In fact, some people may be intolerant to eating carbohydrates. The main point that Dr. Mark Hyman, MD makes in his book called Eat Fat, Get Thin is that eating fat doesn't make you fat. In fact, eating the right type of fat can help you feel satiated and help you stay thinner. Increased fat intake lead to lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides levels.

The book is in four parts. It covers:

• History regarding issues relating to fats
• Facts about fats
• Diet and eating plans
• Recipes

Dr. Hyman list four reasons to eat more fat. They are:

• Feel good
• Live longer
• Lose weight
• Prevent heart disease, dementia, diabetes, and cancer

Four basic types of fats are listed. They are:

• Monunsaturated
• Polyunsaturated
• Saturated (There are odd- and even-chain of omega fats. Different types of saturated fats exist, e.g. laurate, margaric acid, myristate, palmitate, pentadecanic acid, and stearate. Some of these fats come from the diet when you eat sugar and carbs. Others are produced by the liver.)
• Trans fats (They are harmful. They increase heart attack risk, inflammation, diabetes, dementia, sudden death, increased risk of cancer, and obesity.)

Two theories regarding eating and diet are:

• Energy balance hypothesis - This is about calorie intake and calories used by the body. Eat less calories than what your body burns, you will lose weight.
• Hormonal or metabolic hypothesis of weight gain - This theory focuses more on what you and its impact on your metabolic switches and metabolism.

It is not necessarily the amount of food that is eaten. It is the quality of food. Eating fat cuts down food cravings and keeps you satiated. Being fat also makes you eat more. Fat cells produce all kinds of molecules. They are:

• Fat cells are endocrine cells that produce hormones
• Fat cells are part of the immune system and contain white blood cells (macrophages)
• Fat cells produce adipocytokines
• Fat cells are influenced by neurotransmitters
• Fatty tissue are a storage organ and a reservoir of energy

• Strengthen the immune system and help the cells to communicate better
• Helps the lungs, produce something called surfactant
• Needed for hormones like testosterone and estrogen
• Needed for nerves and nervous system
• Help suppress inflammation
• Contain fat soluable vitamins like Vit A, Vit D, and Vit K2
• Saturated fat needed in the brain

Omega-3s help with depression and bipolar. 90% of the Americans are deficient in the long chain omega-3s, EPA and DHA. Some discussion is on the omega-6s fats. Excess omega-6 fats cause health issues.

Amount of protein needs to be in the right range. Excess protein turns into sugar. It takes some time for the body to transition to a high fat diet. Those who ate a higher fat diet had a faster metabolism. It helps to lower inflammation as that helps with healing and weight loss. Most of the cholesterol in the body is from the liver. This cholesterol results in the body's response to sugar and carbs. It is the small LDL pattern B with cholesterol that is dangerous for cardiovascular health. There are apparently toxins that cause obesity, called obesogens.

Below is a table indicating the type of tests recommended by Dr. Mark Hyman:

Dr. Mark Hyman covers GMOs. The problems with GMOs are:

• Acclerated aging
• Changes in major organs and in the gastrointestinal system
• Faulty insulin regulation
• Immune system problems
• Issues with fertility and infertility

Below is a table discussing foods that are beneficial to our health.

Dr. Mark Hyman has written an excellent resource covering the health benefits associated with eating healthy fats. He lists suggested nutritional supplements, what foods to eat, what foods to avoid which includes gluten, grains and dairy, good sources of fat, good sources of protein, good carbs, and what to drink which includes bone broth. Parts three and four in this book provide an eating plan and recipes. This resource includes an index, resources and references/notes.

In conclusion, too many of the foods and substances added to our food supply made available in the United States are not real foods and do not promote anyone's health. Dr. Hyman reported that 70% of the American young men and women are too fat to serve in the military. This is a problem that everyone needs to be aware of. (Added 07/26/2016)

Evening Primrose oil: its remarkable properties and its use in the treatment of a wide range of conditions (1984) by Judy Graham (Publisher: Thorsons Publishing Group)

Flax for Life: 101 delicious recipes and tips featuring fabulous flax oil (1996) by Jade Beutler (Publisher: Progressive Health Publishing) (Note: This is more of a cookbook.)

The Omega-3 Connection: the groundbreaking anti-depression and brain program (2001) by Andrew L. Stoll, MD. (Publisher: Simon & Schuster)

Book review:

After reading the Omega-3 Connection by Andrew L. Stoll, MD, I can now understand why grocery stores sell eggs that supposedly have higher concentrations of omega-3 essential fatty acids.

This book also highlights the important role the omega-3 essential fatty acids play in brain and cardiovascular health as well as having problem free pregnancies, healthy babies and reduced incidence of postpartum depression. Omega-3 essential fatty acids has two components, the EPA and DHA. Dr. Stoll explores these two components in depth.

Dr. Stoll pinpoints a major difference between the Western diet and the Stone Age diet. The Western diet has become extremely low in the omega-3 fats while the Stone Age diet was much higher in the omega-3 fats. Another key point that the author makes is that for optimum health, the ratio between the omega-3 and the omega-6 fats, it needs to be a one to one ratio. Instead, we are having a 10 to 20 ratio of omega-6 fats to 1 ratio of omega-3 fats in the American diet. This is having an effect on a number of mental health disorders, particularly bipolar depression along with cardiac health issues. With the addition of omega-3 fat as a supplement, this may also help those suffering from depression, attention deficit issues, schizophrenia, postpartum depression, and inflammatory health conditions. Excessive intake of the omega-6 fats may be playing a role in obesity and diabetes. Higher levels of omega-3 fats reduces the incidence of cardiac sudden death. It also includes information about the omega-6 fats (source is primarily vegetable and seed oils).

The onset of depression is occurring at younger ages, now children are experiencing depression. This may be related to the omega-3 essential fatty acid deficiency. (It is much safer to give children additional essential fatty acids such as omega-3 rather than psychiatric medications.) A major difference between breast milk and prepared formulas is that breast milk includes the omega-3 fats where formulas generally do not have the addition of omega-3 fats. In fact, it is important for infant health and brain development to have adequate amounts of omega-3 fats. It shows up in the child's development of language and other brain related activities, including the ability to pay attention and master more advanced learning skills. (A major component of brain tissue/cells are the fats. The fats are also important for the strength and flexibility of cell membranes as well as signaling between brain cells.)

A major source of the the omega-3 fats is fish oil. This is one reason why the Mediteranean diet is good for our heart health, it is also higher in the omega-3 fats. Other sources of omega-3 fats are covered.

The author offers an Omega-3 Renewal plan and talks about diet and nutritional supplementation, along with recipes and references. (Note: As a reminder, it is best to work with a health care provider.)

This book has some technical language and chemisty information; however, it has been written for the public to understand the dynamics of the essential fatty acid picture, especially omega-3s.(Book Review added 01/1/2012)

Understanding fats and oils: your guide to healing with essential fatty acids (1996) by Michael T. Murray and Jade Beutler. (Publisher: Apple Publishing)

Book review:

Essential Fatty Acids are fats that the body cannot produce internally and are needed from the diet. Essential fatty acids (phospholipids) are essential to functioning cellular membranes, cellular membranes that are fluid, and allow the movement of nutrients, water into the cell and movement of wastes out of the cell. It also affects the cell's ability to communicate with other cells. Essential fatty acids are needed for hormone like substances known as prostaglandins. It is estimated that 80% of Americans are low in essential fatty acids, much of the deficiency due to food processing methods and dietary choices. When there is a deficiency of essential fatty acids, it affects muliple health conditions in broad and vague ways.

The authors list 21 functions essential fatty acids perform. A partial list includes:

1. Produce steroids and synthesizing hormones
2. Regulate pressure in the eye, joints, and blood vessel
3. Regulare responses to pain, inflammation and swelling
4. Mediate immune response
5. Regulating bodily secretions and their vicosity
6. Dilating and constricting blood vessels

To improve's one nutritional health regarding healthy fats, the authors suggest:

1. Reduce saturated and total fat intake in diet
2. Eliminate margarine and other foods containing trans fatty acids and partially hydrogenated oils
3. Take one to two tablespoons of organic, unrefined flaxseed oil daily (1 tablespoon per 100 pounds of a person's weight), flaxseed oil contains both alpha linolenic (omega 3) and linoleic (omega 6); with more of the omega 3 than in fish
4. Limit total dietary fat to less than 30% of calories

Trans fatty acids and hydrogenated oils can cause the following problems:

1. low birth weight in infants
2. low quality and volume of breast milk
3. abnormalheart disease
4. prostate disease
5. obesity
6. suppression of the immune system
7. inadequate intake and deficiency of essential fatty acids

More omega 3 fats can help the cellular membrane be more receptive to insulin (less insulin resistance), a factor in diabetes. Antioxidants are needed to protect the cells from free radical damage. Free radicals come from two sources. One is internal. External sources are from solvents, drugs, air pollution, and alcohol. Three antioxidant nutrients are: vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium. The authors cover in detail multiple sclerosis and the Roy Swank diet. The authors also cover the omega 6 to omega 3 ratio and its impact on health. Omega 3 oils can help lower high cholesterol, lower high triglycerides, prevent heart attacks, and reverse blockage of clogged arteries.

Essential fatty acids supplementation can help in the following conditions listed below. It takes some time (as long as two years) for the body to build up its stores of essential fatty acids to optimum levels.

It is a detailed resource on the nutritional role of essential fatty acids in human health and the best way to address getting this nutrient as a supplement and a great guide for patient education in human health. It includes chemistry diagrams, recipes, and resources. (Book review added 11/22/2012)

Eat fat, lose fat: the healthy alternative to trans fats (2005) by Dr. Mary Enig and Sally Fallon. (Publisher: Plume Book/Penguin) (Added 10/25/2011)

(Note: This book explains the benefits of healthy fats on our health and ability to lose weight. It includes recipes.)

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FERMENTATION

Before the use of refrigeration, vegetables and other foods sources (including drinks) were fermented. All cultures included fermented foods in their diets. With the western diet, the use of fermentation declined. It turns out that fermented foods/drinks offer nutritional benefits. They are:

1. preserves food
2. food is broken down into more digestible forms, making it easier for the body to digest the nutrients
3. creates new nutrients
4. removes toxins from the foods
5. a number of fermented foods contain live cultures, beneficial to the digestive process, and beneficial to our health

Books on Fermentation:

The Art of Fermentation: an in-depth exploration of essential concepts and processes from around the world (2012) by Sandor Ellix Katz. (Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing)

Book review:

It is a comprehensive resource on fermentation, like a one volume encyclopedia on this topic. (Added 01/30/2014)

Wild Fermentation: the flavor, nutrition and craft of live-culture foods (2003) by Sandor Ellix Katz. (Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing)

Book review:

It is an earlier edition on the subject of fermentation written by Sandor Katz. It includes an explanation on the benefits of soaking and fermentation of grains. This also applies to other foods, too. With grains, the fermentation process removes phytic acid, and enables more of the nutrients to be bioavailable, and absorbed by the body. Phytic acid can block the absorption of zinc, calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. (Added 02/06/2014)

Web Resource on Fermentation:

Sandor Ellix Kandor has a website on fermentation. It is: wildfermentation.com. (Added 02/06/2014)

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FLUORIDATION

For information about the practice of adding fluoride to municipal water systems, see the section FLUORIDE (CHEMICAL). (Added 04/01/2016)

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FLUORIDE (CHEMICAL)

Fluoride is a chemical that has been added to municipal water supply systems to help reduce dental cavities. We have an article that discusses briefly the medical issues associated with fluoride. A second articles addresses the serious effects fluoride has on the brain.

The third resource explains in much further detail the information on fluoride reported in the two articles by Dr. Blaylock and Dr. Brownstein. It covers the external forces that promote fluoridation, adding fluoride to municipal water systems, and the ongoing campaign promoting that adding fluoride to the water is safe and beneficial. (Added 07/02/2012) (Updated 07/16/2013, 04/01/2016)

Articles on Fluoride:

Is fluoride making our kids stupid? The startling truth behind fluoride neurotoxicity by Jonathan V. Wright, MD. (Published in Nutrition & Healing, volume 20, Issue 4, July 2013. (pages 1-2,5, & 8) (Added 07/16/2016)

Article review:

The Center for Disease Control in the United States claims that adding fluoride to the water supply, in the effort to reduce the incidence of dental cavities as a major public health accomplishment. More than 70% of the communities in the U.S. now add fluoride to their water supply. Evidence is appearing that this is actually having a different, and more dangerous effect. It is reducing the IQs in children. The studies done that higher intake of fluoride results in lowering IQs levels, affecting learning and memory, and create thyroid problems. One study is the Harvard Study; another study is one presented by the National Research Council of the National Academies of Sciences. The doctor that brought attention to this matter is Dr. Phyllis Mullenix, Ph.D. Dr. Wright talks about other substances, strontium and xylitol, that help prevent tooth decay.) (Note: If the sugar consumption for children from drinks and food in the United States was reduced, that would be beneficial to both their dental and physical health.) (Added 07/16/2013)

Why Fluoride is Toxic by Russell L. Blaylock, MD (Published in the Blaylock Wellness Report, September 2004, Vol. 1, no. 4, pages 1-9)

Article review:

Fluoride (is a chemical that is part of the halide family) has been added to municipal water systems and toothpaste. It is included under the impression that it reduces dental cavities in children.

Unfortunately, fluoride has problems. Fluoride accumulates in the brain. When it reaches a certain level, it causes brain injury. Dr. Phyllis Mullenix, a neurotoxicologist, did research on the harmful effects of fluoride. Research on fluoride outside the United States confirms Dr. Mullenix's findings. It has been found to:

• Damage areas of the brain
• Factor in Alzheimer's disease
• Accumulate in the pineal gland, the source of melatonin
• Affect the brains cells in the fetus
• Increase cancer rates
• Weaken the cortical bone
• Reduce sperm counts

It is helpful to avoid the following products:

• Teas high in fluoride
• Fluoridated water
• Toothpaste and other dental products with fluoride
• Vaccines containing fluoride and aluminum
• Medications containing fluoride

The following nutrients are suggested to protect yourself from fluoride:

• Magnesium malate
• Calcium citrate
• Vitamin E succinate or natural form
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Selenium
• Multi-vitamin/mineral
• Curcumin

With all the problems associated with adding fluoride to the the water supply, it doesn't reduce the incidence of dental cavities. All European countries have banned water fluoridation. The author suggested that fluoride levels be tested in spinal stenosis.

It is a well written and brief article on the issues associated with the dangers of fluoride.) (Added 07/02/2012, Corrected 07/16/2013)

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Book on Fluoride:

The Case Against Fluoride: how hazardous waste ended up in our drinking water and the bad science and powerful politics that keep it there (2010) by Paul Connett, James Beck, and H.S. Micklem. (Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing) (Added 04/01/2016)

Book Review:

This resource has been written by four people extremely knowledgeable about science. They are people who care about others and have integrity. Each of them became interested in the issue on the practice of adding fluoride in different ways. Paul Connett has a Ph.D in chemistry. Dr. James S. Beck holds doctorates in medicine and biophysics. The third author, H. Spedding Micklem is an emeritus professor of the School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, in United Kingdom. The fourth contributor is Peter Meiers, who has a strong interest in the history behind the use of fluoride.

This resource covers a number of issues associated with fluoridation. First, we will list some of the basic facts about the fluoride added to our water supplies. The facts with a medical and dental component are listed and facts other than medical and dental will be listed. Second, further clarification on government oversight is presented. Finally, we address health conditions affected by fluoride in a table.

Medical and dental facts:

• One, fluoride is not a nutrient. It is not essential to human health. The authors treat fluoride as a drug.
• Two, adding fluoride to water is actually a form of mass medication. The fluoride used in municipal water systems is not the same type of fluoride used in toothpaste and other dental products. Dental products use pharmaceutical grade of fluoride. Remember the movie called Erin Brockovich, where there were different types of chromium, including one type that is toxic. Furthermore, in medical treatment, there is supposed to be informed consent. The patient receiving a particular drug or treatment has the the right to be informed as to what the expected outcomes are as well as the risks.
• Three, the difference between dose is the fixed amount, and the dosage includes body weight. They are two different concepts. The same dose or amount would have a different effect in an infant versus a grown man.
• Four, in the United States, 32% of the children have dental fluorosis. This is attributed to fluoride over-exposure.
• Five, the rates of dental cavities in children has actually been declining both in countries that do not use fluoridation and countries that do.
• Six, to reduce dental cavities especially in children, it really requires nutrition education and reducing one's intake of simple sugars. We now have an obesity epidemic in the United States.

Other than medical and dental facts:

• One, none of the three federal agencies in the United States accepts responsiblity for the practice of adding fluoride to water. These three agencies are:
  • CDC - Center for Disease Control
  • EPA - Environmental Protection Agency
  • FDA - Food and Drug Administration
• Two, the amount of fluoride allowed in water in the United States has been set at 4 parts per million, also known as 4 ppm.
• Three, it was pointed out that in some areas of the world, the water has higher than normal levels of fluoride.
• Four, it needs to be noted that there are other sources of fluoride like sulfuryl fluoride which is used as a fumigant on food in warehouses.
• Five, the fluoride used in municipal water systems is mainly a hazardous waste product of the phosphate fertilizer industry. When fluoride is in our water system, it is given to our pets, ends up in our gardens, and other aspects of our environment.
• Six, research showing the benefits of adding fluoride to the water and its impact on cavities is generally of poor quality. There has never been a randomized control trial (RCT) to demonstrate that swallowing fluoride lowers tooth decay. An RCT is the gold standard for epidemiological studies. (Note: Epidemiological studies is the study and analysis of the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations.)

The three government agencies in the United states that have some oversight, but not complete control, over the fluoridation program are: the CDC, EPA, and FDA.

In this section of the review, we cover the various conditions that are impacted by fluoride. Fluoridation needs to be examined from three perspectives: dental, medical, and industrial. One of the qualities or properties of fluoride is that it can inhibit enzymes in vitro (test tubes). It has been found to interfere with G proteins. These G proteins deliver messages to cells. Therefore, fluoride can affect various areas of the human body. It can affect both our farm and domestic animals.

For valid research studies on the safety and benefits of fluoridation, studies need to include data on the following elements:

• dental education level
• diet
• ethnicity
• income levels (dental problems more common in poorer neighborhoods)
• local soil and food
• other minerals in the water
• quality of available dental services

This resource is destined to become a classic following the example set by Smoking and Politics: Policymaking and the Federal Bureaucracy by A. Lee Fritschler, published in 1975. Unfortunately, the type of dynamics outlined in The Case Against Fluoride is occuring in other areas such as GMOs, vaccinations, mercury in dental fillings, root canals, and chem trails. This is a book that every public official and legislator needs to own and read. It is also a book that any citizen concerned about fluoride safety and the health of our children needs to read as well as all health care professionals, including dentists.

As this resource is 372 pages, there is quite a bit of information. As the authors point out, once the fluoride is added to the water, it is much more expensive and involved to avoid drinking this treated water. It can be done by purchasing bottled water, purchasing a water purification system like distillation or reverse osmosis. As mentioned earlier, it is disbursing a product that can be considered a medicine, being delieved to the entire population, without their informed concsent, and no knowledge on how their bodies will respond to this.

There is some technical language, though the authors do try to make it understandable for the public. Unfortunately, there are quite a bit of politics involved in fluoridation of our water supplies. A number of studies are looked at, for their completeness or lack thereof, their conclusions, and etc. This is disturbing. The authors conclude that when government agencies and professional groups get on the band wagon supporting a program that actually causes harm and is based on inadequate and incomplete research, it is "betrayal of the public trust". (Added 04/01/2016).

Website for Fluoride Action Network

For more information about the Fluoride Action Network, see http://fluoridealert.org. (Added 04/01/2016)

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FODMAP DIET

In this section, we cover the FODMAP diet, a diet originally developed in Australia to deal with digestive issues. This starts with IBS, irritable bowel syndrome. One of the authors talks about different types of IBS issues. As many as one in five Americans suffer from digestive disorders. The FODMAP has been found to provide relief for 75% of the people suffering from IBS, irritable bowel syndrome. It may help people experiencing leaky gut issues.

The FODMAP is an acronym for:

• F is fermentable
• O is for oligosaccharides (includes fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS))
• D is for disaccharides (includes lactose which contains glucose and galactose)
• M is for monosaccharides (includes fructose)
• P is for and polyols (includes sugar alcohols such as maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol)

• Phase one is the elimination diet (2 weeks), eliminating the high FODMAP foods
• Phase two is the testing
• Phase three is the personalization

Bibliography:

Healthy Gut, Flat Stomach: the fast and easy low FODMAP Diet plan (2017) by Danielle Capalino. (Publisher: The Countryman Press) (Added 01/30/2019)

The IBS Elimination Diet and Cookbook (2017) by Patsy Catsos, MS, RD, LD. (Publisher: Harmony Books) (Added 01/30/2019)

Patsy Catsos writes in considerable detail about the IBS Elimination Diet. 87% of the people with IBS improve on the FODMAP diet. This diet was originally developed in Australia, at Box Hill Hospital and Monash University. FODMAPs are about natural sugars that are in foods. All FODMAPs have a few things in common:

1. They may be poorly absorbed in the small intestine. As hours go by after a meal, these carbohydrates linger in the intestines.
2. They are the favorite foods of the bacteria that live in your gut. When the bacteria eat FODMAPs, they produce gas.
3. FODMAPs can act like a sponge to draw and hold excess fluid in the intestines.

1. Get ready, educate yourself about FODMAPs and consult your physician and dietitian.
2. Record your baseline symptoms
3. Plan your diet and go shopping
4. Eliminate high FODMAP foods from your list
5. Monitor your symptoms and compare them to your baseline
6. Reintroduce FODMAPs and monitor your symptoms
7. Evaluate your results
8. Enjoy the most liberal and varied diet you can tolerate

• A sense of incomplete evacuation
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Alternating diarrhea and constipation
• Bloating (abdominal fullness, pressure, or a sensation of trapped gas, not to be confused with excess belly fat)
• Constipation (hard, dry, or infrequent bowel movement)
• Diarrhea (loose, watery, or frequent bowel movements)
• Distention (bouts of measurable increase in girth—can be seen on the outside
• Excess gas (wind)
• Fatigue
• Urgency to use the toilet

• IBS-C (constipation predominant)
• IBS-D (diarrhea predominant)
• IBS-M (mixed bowel pattern)

1. Poor coordination or spasms of the intestinal muscles as they move food through the digestive system
2. Heightened pain when excess gas or fluid builds up in the intestines. This is called visceral hypersensitivity.
3. Miscommunication between the cut and the brain, stress may play a role here in ways that are unclear at this time.
4. Low grade inflammation or auto-immunity
5. Imbalance in the gut microbiome (microbes that live in the gut which includes bacteria, yeasts, and archaea)

1. Anal or rectal problems such as abscesses, skin tags, fissures or hemorrhoids
2. Aching joints or inflammatory arthritis
3. Poor growth (in children) or failure to thrive
4. Itchy rash
5. Family history of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, or ovarian cancer
6. Foul smelling or greasy stools
7. Osteoporosis or osteopenia

The Low-FODMAP Cookbook: 100 delicious, gut friendly recipes for IBS and other digestive disorders (2016) by Dianne Fastenow Benjamin (Publisher: Fair Winds) (Added 01/30/2019)

The Quick and Easy IBS Relief Cookbook (2017) by Karen Frazier. (Publisher: Rockridge Press) (Added 01/30/2019)

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FOOD CHEMICALS

A major source of toxins that can cause harm to our health is through food and beverages. This applies to both plant based food sources and animal sources of food. In a number of cases, these toxic substances are in our environment (like in our water supply, in the soil, and in the atmosphere) and in other cases, it is part of the processing used in preparing food for human consumption. For plant based foods, the use of pesticides and other chemicals in growing food can cause health issues. The use of chemicals in processing foods poses another concern or chemicals used as additives to food supply and beverages. The use of antibiotics in livestock raised in factory type of environment can cause a number of other problems. We have one resource that addresses these concerns in detail. This review includes page numbers in parentheses where the information is posted in the book.

We have a second resource that explains in more detail health issues associated with heavy metals found in our food written by Dr. Renee Joy Dufault. (Added 02/20/2018), (Updated 07/10/2019)

Books on Food Chemicals:

Food Forensics: the hidden toxins lurking in your food and how you can avoid them for lifelong health (2016) by Mike Adams. (Publisher: BenBella Books, Inc.) (Added 02/20/2018)

Book Review:

This book raises a number of questions regarding food safety from harmful chemicals. It also raises questions about government regulation and oversight on our food supply and its impact on human health and all other forms of life in the United States. This issue is also true for other parts of the world. Mike Adams has performed a major public service in addressing this topic. These substances are found in all types of food, even organic food, in powders, in dietary supplements, and even in personal care products. Mike Adams uses the following technology to measure heavy metals and other elements in low concentrations. This technology includes (pages ix, xi):

• inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry instrument (ICP-MS)
• liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC-MS) (Detect pesticides, herbicides, and other organic molecules)

Where are these substances found? They include the following (page 3):

• emulsifiers
• fertilizers
• food additives
• fungicides
• herbicides
• insecticides
• pesticides
• preservatives
• rodenticides

The first part of this book addresses heavy metals. Heavy metals have been released into our environment. Our bodies absorb it by breathing the air, ingesting it via food, and it can be absorbed through our skin. This affects not just human life. It also affects animals, plants, and fungi. It can cause or trigger the following health issues (page 2):

• cancer
• heart and lung ailments
• immunological and digestive disorders
• inflammation (systemic)
• neurological damage
• organ failure

• decline in cognitive function (intelligence)
• cancer
• infertility

The following organizations (many of them government) that set standards on safety levels for various chemicals include (page 13):

• California Proposition 65
• European Food Safety Authority
• European Union
• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
• The Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain
• U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention
• United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• World Health Organization

To get an understanding of how even small infinitely small amounts of heavy metals can cause harm, we have a chart showing what is the so-called safe levels in heavy metals.

The author addresses detoxification methods like filtering tap water, issues with teas (they are high in lead and fluoride), the use of infrared saunas and sweat lodges, and etc. Serious detoxification needs to be done under medical supervision. The best approach is to avoid exposure to these toxins in the first place. (page 201)

This is a great resource to have on hand for everyone. This includes both consumers and ethical companies that make our food possible. Use of lead and exposure to lead led to the downfall of the Roman Empire. It is no laughing matter our exposure to toxins and much of it is from food. This resource makes a powerful statement that toxins have leached into our food supply and this includes personal care products. It is recommended that food, especially processed food, be tested for toxic substances. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needs to take the lead role in this endeavor. Testing needs to be done by an independent party with no ties to the industry. We cannot have a fox guarding the chickens. While some companies are trying to clean up the various toxins found in their products, not all of them do that. In fact, the FDA and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) have not set up limits for heavy metals in foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. The presence of toxins is also a problem for food that is considered organic. (page xiv)

This problem of toxins in our food supply is not just a problem in the United States. It is a worldwide problem. Mike Adams addresses the international standards used on testing toxins. There are a number of organizations in the world that regulate the level of toxins found in a variety of substances, especially food. Even tattoo inks have been found to contain heavy metals. It is not just acute exposure to these toxins that is a problem, it is also long term exposure to low levels that can trigger health issues. A substantial portion of the book lists data on a number of products, levels of heavy metals and other elements. This resource includes an extensive listing of references or endnotes as well as an index. (Added 02/20/2018)

Website for Mike Adams, the Health Ranger

For more information about Mike Adams and his work, his website address is: www.NaturalNews.com. (Added 02/20/2018)

Unsafe at Any Meal: what the FDA does not want you to know about the foods you eat (2017) by Dr. Renee Joy Dufault. (Publisher: SquareOne Publishers) (Added 07/10/2019)

Book Review:

The author, Dr. Renee Joy Dufault has a background in environmental policy analysis and planning and a doctorate in health education. She has worked for a number of U.S. government agencies including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). After leaving the government, she founded the non-profit Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute (FIHRI). What Dr. Dufault has done in this book is explain the relationship of the various toxins (defined toxicants), especially heavy metals such as mercury and lead in our food, and the impact it has on health. This includes the mushrooming obesity and type 2 diabetes epidemics, cardiovascular health, and other health issues.

As the food supply has become increasingly processed, we are now paying a price when it comes to our health as well as our ability to have healthy children. The issue with processed food is the levels of inorganic mercury. There are actually two types of mercury. There is the organic and inorganic form of mercury. Mercury is used to make high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and it is also found in medicines. It is used as a biocide, to kill germs and pathogenic organisms, including mold. It is in a number of baby products ands lengthens shelf life. Two main considerations regarding these chemicals are:

• One, the amount or level of the substance; and
• Two, genetic susceptibility, which varies from person to person

• Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes, Type 2
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• High cholesterol
• Obesity

This first table addresses issues of heavy metals.

This next table covers some of the terms in the book.

A major concern is the lack of research on the health impact of these toxicants on health. In this case, ignorance not bliss. We need to consider the long term impact of these substances, the bioaccumulation of these toxicants, as well as the interaction of more than one toxicant with each other. This applies to both food consumption (dietary exposure) and to agricultural workers (occupational exposure). Furthermore, the FDA needs to monitor both organic and inorganic mercury. The public economic cost of children with autism and other behavioral disorders as well as the need for special education, far outweigh what it would cost to prevent these health conditions and disabilties. We also need to make sure that all of our pregnant mothers are healthy (and not overweight). As an example, for each child with autism, the costs can range from $40,000 to $60,000 a year. This becomes and is already a public health crisis.

Dr. Dufault explains that it is the food manufacturers that determine standards on these chemicals. These standards are not being based on science and their impact on health. Food labels do not include toxins and their levels.

The author also explains how we can minimize our exposure to these toxicants/toxins through diet as well as which nutrients are needed to counteract these toxicants. A major observation that has been made is the lack of research on understanding what are our basic nutritional needs that result in optimum health. Dr. Dufault also indicates what actions the FDA can take to improve the nutritional quality of our food as well as the safety of non-food items like baby products, cosmetics, medications, etc. In view of the overall picture on what is happening to our food supply, nutrition education needs to start with nursery school children and continue all the way to college.

Unsafe at Any Meal is a resource that all of our legislators, educators, health care professionals, and the public need to read. It includes resources, references, and an index. (Added 07/10/2019)

Online Diet Tutorial from the Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute (FIHRI)

For a free online tutorial for people and families to improve the nutritonal quality and safety of their diets, it is: http://foodingredient.info/healthydiettutorial.html. (Added 07/10/2019)

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FRACKING

While fracking is a process of obtaining gas from the earth through drilling and use of water and chemicals, this process affects human health in a number of ways. Instead of a book review, we have a link to a website and an article written by Judy Stone, MD about the adverse health outcomes occurring in areas where fracking has occurred. The link is: https://www.forbes.com/sites/judystone/2017/02/23/fracking-is-dangerous-to-your-health-heres-why/#3ce1aa025945. (Added 02282017)

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FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

One needs to keep in mind that our most important asset is our health. Without it, it affects our ability to make choices in what we would like to accomplish in life. It also affects the lives of our family members when it comes to dealing with health issues. As more people become aware of the shortcomings found in allopathic medicine, functional medicine is becoming more appealing. Most of us would like to be healthy and functional towards the end of our lives. That is what functional medicine focuses on. Many of the protocols covered in functional medicine include nutrition and hormonal health. The process of regaining one's health under functional medicine occurs in stages. It generally does not happen overnight. A number of these topics are covered by various other authors on this website.

We have one author, a physician named Dr. Neil Nathan, MD, who kept an open mind about learning other protocols that might help his patients heal, many of them suffering from chronic illness, actually regain their health. Many of his patients have seen a number of doctors before they finally see him. A book like this gives us hope that there is medicine that can help us heal. It takes a lifestyle change and a personal commitment and responsibility to work on regaining one's health. The title of his book is: Healing is Possible.

We have added a second resource that appropriately seems to fit in best with functional medicine. The author is someone as a patient who recovered from being seriously ill and regained his health. The approach is a holistic one, utilizing a number of strategies, starting with cleaning up one's diet, and utilizing a variety of techniques. It is told in a humorous manner with anecdotes. (Added 05/08/2019, Updated 09/08/2019)

Books on Functional Medicine:

Healing is Possible: new hope for chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, persistant pain, and other chronic illness (2013) by Neil Nathan, MD. (Publisher: SquareOne)

Book review:

• Adrenal Gland - plays an important role in dealing with stress (physical, emotional, and spiritual) and produces a number of hormones including DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), mineralocorticoids, and cortisol.
• Thyroid - makes two hormones (T3 triiodothryonine and T4 tetraiodothyronine)
• Sex Hormones - estrogen plays a role in mental health, hormone balance is needed for both men and women
• Magnesium - deficiency of magnesium is common. Chronic illness depletes the body's levels of magnesium.
• Food Allergies - they can be immediate or delayed. Understanding the science behind food allergies involves understanding nutrition and the immune system.
• Overgrowth of Yeast and Toxic Bacteria in the digestive tract - a balance between the good bacteria and the pathogens (keeping them in check) is needed for a healthy digestive and immune system.

• Heavy metal toxicity, especially mercury and lead (exposure to mercury in dental fillings, in vaccines, electrical charges between dental fillings, and mercury in fish (use a biological dentist)
• Residual infections such as Epstein-Barr, Lyme disease, mycoplasms infections
• Mold toxicity
• Amino acid deficiencies - affects neurotransmitters, depletion common in chronic illnesses
• Hypoglycemia - low blood sugar issues and insulin resistance
• Methylation - the process behind methylation needs to work properly

The Healing Point: get well, stay well (2017) by James Lilley. (Publisher: James Lilley)

This book is a guide and a roadmap to regaining one's health. It is written by someone, in this case, James Lilley, who found himself quite ill, and gradually regained his health by doing diligent research and making lifestyle changes. Without using medical terminology, James Lilley explains a number of medical concepts in plain language and that everyone should be able to understand.

Pain is a signal from the body that something is amiss. Using pain killers mask the symptoms, and does not address underlying causes. It is estimated that there are actually 100,000 deaths a year in the United States due to prescription drugs. It includes the importance of a balanced pH (acid/alkaline) level in our bodies.

Health begins with our cells and is also based on the quality of the their nutrition (not quantity of calories). Our health and a strong immune system depends on having a healthy digestive system. A number of substances can cause problems. Below is a listing:

• bacteria
• chemicals
• contaminated food
• fungus
• gas fumes
• heavy metals
• medications and drugs
• mold
• personal care products
• pesticides
• synthetic fabrics
• viruses

James Lilley has put together a number of internet resources, mainly through YouTube that people can access. They are listed at the end of the chapter and below is a partial listing.

The path to wellness involves a number of lifestyle changes. It means eating "clean" food, using "clean" products to keep your home clean, filtering your water, avoiding certain oils for cooking and salad dressings, checking your home for mold, using fabrics that "breathe", what types of cookware to use, issues with electromagnetic radiation, need for clean personal care products, and etc. The best "organic" food is one that is home grown. Organic foods are allowed some pesticides and they are listed. Foods that trigger problems are covered. The issues on lectins are addressed and non-lectin foods are listed. The keto diet and other types of diets are discussed. Juicing inceases the body's ability to absorb nutrients. A high quality type of juice is wheatgrass juice. A chapter covers recipes. Five major supplements are covered: magnesium, vitamin B12, Krill oil, vitamin C, and probiotics. Six different adaptogens are covered, herbs with medicinal and therapeutic properties.

Healthy pooping is another indicator of health issues. Constipation can be a sign of an underperforming thyroid. Poop should not have a foul odor, either. One's urine needs to have the color of straw or light lemon color. Certain categories of foods are known to cause problems. They include the grains, dairy, and GMOs. A lack of minerals or deficiency prevents the body from being able to absorb vitamins, enabling toxins and pathogens to accumulate in the body. Exercise goes a long way in helping our bodies to heal. There are over 90 essential nutrients needed in our bodies. The path to healing needs to be done slowly, to see if it works, and it will take time. The possibility of parasites is covered. Stress issues are addressed. Apparently, men have a higher risk for stress and suicide, which is interesting. The issue of contaminated water was included. One million people die from drinking contaminated water each year.

Below is a table that are techniques that can be done at home.

(Note: For more serious health issues, seek the services of a qualified health care practioner.)

Unfortunately, the number of people experiencing autoimmune health issues continues to rise. In an autoimmune case, this means that the immune system has gone awry and is attacking the body's own tissues. One important suggestion is locating a doctor that has the expertise, especially in functional medicine, to address the various possible issues. This means doing your homework and research in locating such a practitioner.

What is valuable about this resource, it explains a number of options to address the various possible health issues that one may be having to address in their path to achieving wellness and optimum health. Some suggestions are made on what a person can do at home and using the internet to expand upon the concepts addressed in this book. (Added 09/08/2019)

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GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS

In discussing nutritional medicine, when we consider food to be our medicine, it is important to know the type of seeds are used to grow our foods in addition to knowing what farming and processing methods are being utilized.

After discussing the issues associated with the use of pesticides and herbicides in producing our foods, another wrinkle has appeared. It is the use of GMO foods. GMO stands for genetically modified organism. The GMO foods are under the auspices of the biotech industry, where biological and technology have been combined, to modify the genetic make-up of foods for various reasons and purposes.

Are GMO foods safe for human consumption? That is the real question. Does it also have optimum nutritional levels? What impact does genetically modified foods have on our environment and on other plants and animal life? Jeffrey M. Smith has written a book that basically exposes the issues behind GMO foods called "Seeds of Deception: exposing industry and government lies about the safety of the genetically engineered foods you're eating". He covers the shortcomings of using genetically modified foods and its potential dangers to human life, animal life, other plants, and its impact on the environment.

In conclusion about producing GMO foods as an argument to make food available to a growing world wide population, an alternative is sustainable agriculture. (Added 02/06/2014)

Book on Genetically Modified Foods:

Seeds of Deception: exposing industry and government lies about the safety of the genetically engineered foods you're eating (2003) by Jeffrey M. Smith. (Publisher: Yes! Books)

Book Review:

One of the key points Jeffrey M. Smith makes is that there are at least 21 reasons why genetic engineering can go in different directions than planned. The genetic process is actually a very complex and involved process developed over centuries. Our knowledge of how this works in still imprecise and very elementary. Below are some of the factors that affect genetic changes:

Studies that explore the changes that occur with genetically modified foods need to check on the following factors:

• allergen levels in the GMO foods (allergen levels can increase)
• death rate of animals fed GMO foods
• effect on immune system
• nutritional content of the foods
• resistance to herbicides
• size and other changes in organs

• Jane Akre, US television reporter
• Alexander Apostolou, US FDA scientist
• Britt Bailey, co-author of Against the Grain, Biotechnology, and the Corporate Takeover of Your Food in US
• Richard Burroughs, US FDA veterinarian
• Ignacio Chapela, US microbiologist
• Shiv Chopra, Canadian scientist
• Steve Drucker, public interest attorney in US
• Sam Epstein, US writer
• Becky Goldburg, Environmental Defense Fund in US
• Zac Goldsmith, co-editor of Ecologist in UK
• Bill Lambrecht, author of Dinner at the New Gene Cafe in US
• Marc Lappe, co-author of Against the Grain, Biotechnology, and the Corporate Takeover of Your Food in US
• Bill Lashmitt, US biochemist
• Dr. Arpad Pusztai and his wife Susan, scientists in the UK
• Joseph Settepani, US FDA scientist
• Barbara Reed Stitt, author of Food and Behavior, A Natural Connection in US (Note: Her book shows how food and diet can affect behavior and learning.)
• Laura Ticciati, founder of Mothers for Natural Law and co-author of Genetically Engineered Foods: Are They Safe? You Decide in US
• Steve Wilson, US investigative reporter
• Carol Yoon, US reporter

Web resources:

Jeffery M. Smith has two websites that deal with his book and the genetically modified organisms issues. They are:

• www.responsibletechnology.org
• seedsofdeception.com

Return to table of topics

GLUTEN SENSITIVITY

Most people in the United States are now seem to be familiar with the issue of celiac, an inability to digest gluten, a protein found in wheat. Tests can verify this type of condition. What is a related condition and something not as easy to spot is gluten sensitivity. Furthermore, apparently according to the resource that we have, all grains have some kind of gluten. We have a resource addressing gluten sensitivity called No grain, no pain, written by Dr. Peter Osborne, MD. It can also be considered to be an autoimmune condition, this inability to digest gluten and sensitivity to gluten. (Added 06/11/2017)

No grain, no pain: a 30 day diet for eliminating the root cause of chronic pain (2016) by Dr. Peter Osborne (Publisher: Touchstone). (Added 06//2017)

Book Review:

When we think of gluten, we think that it is in the following grains: wheat, rye, barley, and even oats. However, according to Dr. Peter Osborne, a functional medicine physician, all the grains have some type of gluten. This includes rice and corn as well as foods that have gluten-like proteins. One that is not considered a grain, but is a grass is wild rice. For those still dealing with health issues even after removing wheat from their diets, other problematic foods include: soy, dairy, and any food that the person is allergic to. In this book, in part, Dr. Osborne covers the science behind gluten sensitivity. As much as 20% to 30% of the population in the United States may have gluten sensitivity. It causes inflammation. There are 400 forms of gluten. Below is a list covering the various types of gluten in grains:

• Barley - Hordein
• Corn - Zein (Corn also contains fumonism, a problem for people with type 2 diabetes and heart disease.)
• Millet - Panicin
• Oats - Avenin
• Rice - Oryzenin (As rice is grown in water, it has been found to be contaminated with heavy metals.)
• Rye - Sesalin
• Sorghum - Kafirin
• Teff - Penniseiten
• Wheat - Gliadin

The following are pseudo-grains, they are vegetables that have gluten-like proteins:
• Amaranth
• Buckwheat
• Quinoa

One way to see if food is at the root of your health issues, is to fast. If the symptoms improve, that is an indication, that certain foods could be part of the problem. The major problem behind gluten sensitivity is inflammation. Gluten sensitivity can cause the immune system to attack the body, seeking out the body's weakest areas. This is also an autoimmune issue, when the immune system attacks the body's own tissues and organs. Below are issues associated with gluten sensitivity:

1. Gluten sensitivity causes inflammation (systematic)
2. Grain consumption leads to vitamin and mineral difficiences. It can lead to a breakdown in muscles, joints, bones, and other body tissues.
3. Grain consumption causes leaky gut, which is a precursor to autoimmune diseases
4. Grain is extremely difficult for the body to digest. Proteins in the grains are resistant to enzyme activity and breakdown.
5. Gluten sensitivity affects the following areas of the body:
   • gut (instestines)
   • head (migraines)
   • joints
   • muscles (pain and weakness)
   • nerves (restless leg syndrome)
   Note: There are over 140 autoimmune diseases that can be triggered by eating grains.
6. Gluten sensitivity can play a major role in a number of mental health conditions as well as being a neurotoxin (chemical that harms the brain):
   • ADHD
   • Bipolar syndrome
   • Depression
   • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
   • Peripheral neuropathy
   • Restless Leg syndrome (bacterial overgrowth in the intestines linked to gluten sensitivity)
   • Schizophrenia
   • Vertigo (dizziness)
   Note: Chronic pain annual costs in the United States runs between $560 billion to $635 billion a year. The author covers in detail issues with the use of prescription drugs. Prescription drugs are the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.
7. Milk has a protein called casein and it looks "like" gluten. It can cause the same reactions as found in gluten sensitivity.

Some of the key principles in functional medicine is that each one of us is biochemically unique.

Below is a table covering some of the ideas and concepts relating to functional medicine and gluten sensitivity.