Scientists Map Genome of Common Cold Virus

Scientists Map Genome of Common Cold Virus

Scientists have mapped the entire genome of the common cold virus. It won't lead to an immediate cure but it could be the next step in finding a cure.

"We have the pieces all in place. They can't go in any other way. Now we have to understand what the pictures are telling us," said Dr. Stephen B. Liggett, professor of medicine and physiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and director of its Cardiopulmonary Genomics Program.

The research was published in the online edition of the journal Science on Thursday afternoon.

Technically known as the human rhinovirus infection, the common cold is responsible for half of all asthma attacks and is a factor in bronchitis, sinusitis, middle-ear infections and pneumonia. The coughs, sneezes and sniffles of colds impose a major health care burden in the United States -- including visits to health care providers, cost of over-the-counter drugs for symptom relief, often-inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions and missed work days -- with direct and indirect costs of about $60 billion annually.

CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports on the genetic map of the rhinovirus. Take a look:

Tags: common-cold | rhinovirus | common-cold-virus

Posted on February 12, 2009
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Winter Means Increased Asthma Problems

Winter Means Increased Asthma Problems

Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports on the connection between Winter and increased asthma. The onset of cold weather can increase asthma attacks and make people with asthma feel worse. Dr. Sanjay Gupta says "cold air can exacerbate the condition as can getting sick." There are more colds and other viruses around. These illnesses can be problematic for people with asthma. Take a look:

Tags: asthma | kids-asthma | childrens-health

Posted on January 14, 2010
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Treating Itchy Eyes With OTC Eye Drops

Treating Itchy Eyes With OTC Eye Drops

This video from Fox News discusses some of the OTC drugs that help with eye itching and irritation caused by allergies. In the video Dr. Manny says he likes a recent drug called Pataday that treats your eyes. It's a one drop once-a-day treatment as opposed to other eye allergy drops that need to applied twice daily. Dr. Manny says Paraday works just as well as the twice-a-day OTC allergy medications. Dr. Manny also warns against rubbing your eyes which is very difficult not to do if your eyes are itching.

Tags: allergies | itchy-eyes | eye-allergies

Posted on November 5, 2008
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Teenage Boy Had a Maggot Inside His Eye

Teenage Boy Had a Maggot Inside His Eye

A teenage boy had a maggot inside his eye that was eating his retina. The event happened five years ago and is being documented an Animal Network show called Monsters Inside Me. A gnat landed in the boy's eye when he was walking to school and doctors believe the gnat must have laid an egg, which grew into a maggot. Doctors killed the maggot by cutting it in half with a laser. This seems like a very rare event. Take a look:

Tags: maggot | maggot-eye | monsters-inside-me

Posted on August 3, 2010
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Replacement Tooth Grown For a Mouse

Replacement Tooth Grown For a Mouse

A team of Japanese scientists were able to grow a green replacement tooth for a mouse. Researchers say it is the first time a "fully functional and three-dimensional organ" has been regenerated. The tooth works just like any other tooth. This sounds promoising. Hopefully, we will be able to grow human tetth before too long.

Tags: replacement-organs | tooth-grown-mouse | replacement-teeth

Posted on November 18, 2009
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Man Who Underwent Full Face Transplant Thanks Doctors

Man Who Underwent Full Face Transplant Thanks Doctors

A Spanish man who underwent the first full face transplant in the world appeared before TV cameras for the first time today. The man thanked his doctors and the family of the face donor. The man is described as a 31-year-old man. The Guardian reports that the had the surgery after accidentally shooting himself in the face several years ago. The surgery last 24 hours.

During the 24-hour surgery, doctors lifted an entire face, including jaw, nose, cheekbones, muscles, teeth and eyelids, and placed it mask-like on to the man. He has been described as a farmer who was unable to breathe or eat on his own after accidentally shooting himself in the face five years ago. The head of the 30-strong surgical team, Dr Joan Pere Barret, said the man would need at least a year of physiotherapy and was likely to regain up to 90% of his facial functions.

His face does not look normal, but it looks great considering the extensive surgery. It still looks very swollen. The video is not in English. Take a look:

Tags: face-transplant | full-face-transplant | face-transplant-surgery

Posted on July 27, 2010
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Study Finds Sleep Might Help Clear Arteries

Study Finds Sleep Might Help Clear Arteries

The Washington Post reports that a new five-year study has found that more sleep can reduce calcium deposits in people's arteries. Specifically, the study found that people getting one extra hour of sleep each night were less likely to have "artery-stiffening calcium deposits." The researchers do not know why there is a link between more sleep reduced calcium deposits but they do have theories involving cortisol and reduced blood pressure.

After adjusting for lots of potential risk factors, such as sex, race, and smoking habits, the researchers found that one more hour of sleep a night decreased the risk of calcification by a third. That's about as much as a 16.5-point reduction in blood pressure, the researchers said.

"Nothing came out of the study as appearing to explain the association," Lauderdale said. But she believes that there are three possible explanations.

One is that another factor, such as socioeconomic status, was the connection here. A second is that a stress-related hormone, cortisol, which has been tied to decreased sleep and increased calcification, is the link.

"Finally, sleep is related to blood pressure, and that is a coronary artery disease risk factor," Lauderdale said. "It's possible that for people who were sleeping more, their 24-hour blood pressure was lower than their daytime blood pressure."

It's already been proven that being sleep deprived can be unhealthy so it is best to try to get a full night's sleep. It's disturbing news for those who are unable to get a full night's sleep because of work or health issues. It's also confusing because no one knows exactly what a full night's sleep is and the hours of sleep people need varies in individuals. For more on how much sleep you really need read this article from Time that talks about a study that tried to answer this question.

Tags: sleep | sleep-arteries | how-much-sleep

Posted on December 28, 2008
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Worldwide Death Toll From H1N1 Swine Flu Passes 5,000

Worldwide Death Toll From H1N1 Swine Flu Passes 5,000

The Flucount.org website, which is trying to count flu cases and deaths, reports that the number of worldwide deaths from H1N1 swine flu has passed the 5,000 mark.

The worldwide total is likely higher than this because there are nations that are probably not reporting deaths with accuracy and some that are not reporting them at all.

Tags: h1n1 | h1n1-swine-flu | swine-flu-death-toll

Posted on October 6, 2009
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Spanish Face Transplant Patient Leaves Hospital

Spanish Face Transplant Patient Leaves Hospital

A Spanish man who underwent a partial face transplant in January appeared in public Tuesday for the first time since his operation. There appears to be a great deal of swelling that has not gone down, but he looks great considering the bottom two-thirds of his face were replaced. You can read more about the patient, known only as Rafael, here and here. Take a look:

Tags: face-transplants | face-replacement-surgery | partial-face-transplant

Posted on May 4, 2010
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Study Finds Vegetarians Get Less Cancer

Study Finds Vegetarians Get Less Cancer

Marie Claire reports that a large study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition of over 50,000 men and women found that vegetarians get far fewer cancers. However, the study found unexpectedly that vegetarians get more colorectal cancer.

However, the study of 52,700 men and women, which was published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, wasn't all good news for vegetarians. It was discovered, too, that vegetarians were more likely to have colorectal cancer.

This was surprising as it seems to contradict previous evidence that eating lots of red meat increases the risk of developing the disease.

The Telegraph is also reporting on the research. They note that fish-eaters also had a lower risk of cancer than meat eaters. There's also been news recently of a study that found that mushrooms may help ward off breast cancer.

Tags: prostate-cancer | mark-spindle | coping-cancer

Posted on March 21, 2009
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Study Finds Women Who Drink Beer are More Likely to Develop Psoriasis

Study Finds Women Who Drink Beer are More Likely to Develop Psoriasis

BBC News reports that a new study in the Archives of Dermatology links women beer drinkers with an increased psoriasis risk. The study followed 82,000 female nurses. The study found women who drank five or more beers a week doubled their risk of psoriasis.

In the study, researchers said they observed a 72% increased risk of psoriasis in women who drank more than 2.3 alcoholic drinks per week compared with non-drinkers.

For women who drank five glasses of beer per week their risk of developing psoriasis was 1.8 times higher again.

This was a large study so the connection between women beer drinkers and psoriasis could be significant. The Boston Globe reports that women who drank full-calorie beer were more likely to develop psoriasis than those who drank light beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages. You can read more about psoriasis here on the Mayo Clinic's website.

Tags: psoriasis | women-beer-drinkers | beer-psoriasis

Posted on August 16, 2010
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Super Lice Frustrate Parents and Leave Kids Itchy

Super Lice Frustrate Parents and Leave Kids Itchy

Super lice are real. The nasty little critters have developed immunity and cannot be killed easily with today's commercial lice killers. MSNBC has an article about super lice.

Researchers have been warning for years that head lice in the U.S. and around the world are developing immunity to the strong insecticides used in over-the-counter and prescription shampoos. It takes just three to five years for the bugs to adapt to a new product, despite claims to the contrary by the manufacturers, noted Shirley C. Gordon, an associate professor at Florida Atlantic University who studies persistent head lice.

Health officials have continued to recommend the products, however, because over-the-counter medications like the permethrin in Nix, the pyrethrin s in RID, the lindane in Kwell and the prescription malathion in Ovide still work in some people, some of the time.

But the nation's school nurses, often the first defense against the scourge, say it's clear to them that families confronted with the critters are increasingly frustrated by the product failures.

Fox News and New York Daily News also have super lice stories.

The super lice still look the same as regular lice - a louse is about the size of a sesame seed. In the video below lice expert Dr. Daniel Rauch recommends some smothering products including mayonnaise and olive oil. The regular lice-fighting shampoos are not as effective as killing super lice. These products have to stay on the head for two to four hours. It sounds gross putting this in your hair but it sure beats having super lice.

Tags: super-lice | lice | insects

Posted on October 10, 2008
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Heart Hospital and Glassworks Create Virtual Heart

Heart Hospital and Glassworks Create Virtual Heart

This detailed animated heart was created by a team of doctors from the Heart Hospital in London and computer animation experts from Glassworks. The virtual heart can be manipulated using a computer mouse or keyboard. New Scientist says the computer simulated heart is the most realistic to date. Take a look:

Tags: virtual-heart | heart-animation | glassworks

Posted on May 31, 2009
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Study Finds No Measles Vaccine and Autism Link

Study Finds No Measles Vaccine and Autism Link

A new study has found that there is no link between the measles vaccine and Autism.

Lipkin and colleagues searched for traces of genetic material linked to the virus in intestinal tissue taken from 25 children with autism and gastrointestinal problems. They compared the samples to those from 13 children without autism but with intestinal problems.

In 24 of the group of 25 and in 12 of the 13, there was no evidence of viral persistence, leading researchers to conclude the vaccine did not cause autism or gastrointestinal problems.

During a news briefing yesterday, Lipkin said his research showed the sole benefit of Wakefield's study - it highlighted that children with autism often have disabling gastrointestinal (GI) problems. Researchers now believe such problems afflict 25 percent of children with autism-related conditions.

"We found no relationship between the timing of the MMR vaccine and the onset of either GI complaints or autism," Dr. Mady Hornig, also of Columbia, said.

There was a study in 1998 that raised the question of a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism but this new study found no relationship between the MMR vaccine and autism. The CDC has a page about the MMR vaccine and the risks involved for those not getting the vaccine. Elizabeth Cohen discussed the findings on CNN. Cohen says that one autism group says the study "puts the issue to bed." However, critics argue the study was poorly done and raises more questions. Cohen also said fewer kids are getting vaccinated for MMR because of concerns about the vaccine.

Tags: mmr | autism | measles-vaccine

Posted on September 4, 2008
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Study: Women's Hands Have More Bacteria Than Men's

Study: Women's Hands Have More Bacteria Than Men's

The BBC reports that a new study has found that women harbour more types of bacteria on their hands than men

Women have a greater range of different types of bacteria on the palms of their hands than men, US research suggests.

The study also found that human hands harbour far higher numbers of bacteria species than previously thought.

Using powerful gene sequencing techniques, researchers found a typical hand had roughly 150 different species of bacteria living on it.

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study found bacteria types varied greatly between individuals.

The article says the research may eventually help scientists determine which bacteria species are linked to different diseases. One theory as to why women may carry more types of bacteria is that men tend to have more acidic skin. Here's CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta talking about the study.

Tags: hands | bacteria | germs

Posted on November 6, 2008
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What Should You Keep In Your Medicine Cabinet?

What Should You Keep In Your Medicine Cabinet?

Dr. Mallika Marshall shows Chris Wragge on the CBS News HealthWatch segment what some of the essential over-the-counter medicine products are. This might be helpful to keep in your medicine cabinet. Some of the drugs Dr. Marshall mentions includes Sudafed, Bendadryl, Claritan, Acetominiphine, Ibuprofen, Tums, Mylanta, Maalox, Neosporin, Band-aids, Hydrocortison and Nasal Saline Drops.

Tags: medicine-cabinet | over-thecounter-medicine | otc-drugs

Posted on September 15, 2008
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Best Of Dietary Fiber and Cancer

Some types of foods are easier to incorporate into one’s diet than others. If your doctor advises you to eat more fruits or vegetables, you can quite easily select the varieties that you like best and up your intake. The same can be said for other commonly recommended health foods such as fish, nuts and seeds. But adding more fiber into your daily routine requires some planning because not all fruits and vegetables contain much and animal based foods are completely devoid of it. In my opinion, being reminded of the importance of fiber, while becoming more aware of foods that are abundant in this dietary component is the key to making it a priority.

A recent summary in the journal Nutrition Review suggests that optimal levels of dietary fiber may help prevent a wide array of health conditions, including several cancers, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases and, even, obesity. The recommended target is roughly 14 grams of fiber per every 1000 calories consumed. Ideally, the majority of this fiber should come from nutrient rich foods. But fiber supplements can also be utilized if your diet regularly falls short of your fiber goals. (1)

When I reviewed the 2009 medical literature relating to fiber, two key areas of health care were most prominently featured: cancer and cardiovascular disease. Today I’ll focus on the cancer protective role of these bulking agents. I’ll also devote a separate column to the cardiovascular part of the equation.

A 4 year dietary intervention examined the effects of a strict high fiber diet (rich in fruits and vegetables) in a group of patients at an increased risk for colon polyps. A 35% reduction in polyp recurrence was found in those deemed as “super compliers” to the menu plan. This emphasizes the need for a consistently healthy diet. (2)A very large population trial entitled the “National Institutes of Health – AARP Diet and Health Study” investigated the role that dietary fiber may play in breast cancer (BC) rates. Over 185,000 postmenopausal women were followed for 7 years. Food frequency questionnaires were used to assess typical food selection and macronutrient status. The researchers determined that the women consuming the most fiber were afforded significant protection against BC. Their concluding remarks were as follows: “Our findings suggest that dietary fiber can play a role in preventing breast cancer through non-estrogen pathways among postmenopausal women.” (3)The August 2009 issue of the journal Cancer Causes and Control provided very strong evidence that a high fiber diet can reduce the likelihood of stomach cancer occurrence. More importantly, the Italian scientists behind this trial actually looked at what forms of fiber appear to be most beneficial for stomach cancer prevention. Their overall conclusion was that total fiber consumption did demonstrate a protective effect. But only fiber from vegetables and, to a lesser extent, fruit yielded positive results. Fiber rich grains did not afford any benefit at all in this investigation. (4)Reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus are inflammatory conditions that can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer. A new study from the Netherlands determined that the intake of starchy carbohydrates increased the risk of these forms of pre-cancerous inflammation. But, higher intake of roughage was inversely related to esophageal inflammation and the related cancer. The reduced risk was noted as 56% based on a comparison of those with the highest vs. lowest dietary fiber intake. This is yet another example of how good carbs (fiber) can benefit health and bad carbs (starches and sugar) can endanger it. (5)

One concern that I’ve personally had about dietary fiber is whether its bulking action may impede the absorption of other healthy components found in foods. This issue was recently addressed in a study presented in the June issue of the journal Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. 10 volunteers were provided with an antioxidant rich fiber supplement. The product contained a total of 15 grams of dietary fiber per serving. The researchers then tested the blood of the volunteers at various points following the fiber consumption. Significant elevations in serum antioxidant status were found 8 hours after the ingestion of the antioxidant/fiber blend. This indicates that “antioxidants associated with dietary fiber are at least partially bioavailable in humans, although dietary fiber appears to delay their absorption”. (6)

One the easiest and healthiest ways to boost fiber intake is to make a fiber rich smoothie. I regularly include berries, pure cocoa powder and flax seeds in my protein shakes to increase fiber content. I can now do so with the added knowledge that the naturally occurring antioxidants in these fiber sources will sustain my good health for several hours after I drink them. In effect, this may help provide valuable protection over the course of the day and night. I hope that this information and my companion column about fiber and cardiovascular disease will help inspire you to include more fiber in your diet. I believe the effort will be well worth it.

Update: December 2010 - In yesterday’s column I mentioned how increasing your intake of dietary fiber can also lead to a higher consumption of valuable nutrients including magnesium. But the protective effects of whole foods extend beyond their nutritive properties. When examining the role that fiber plays in the incidence of malignancies, it’s important to consider the antioxidants that are usually present in fiber rich foods. When doing so, it’s also vital that the issue of antioxidant transport be evaluated. A new report in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry explains that “around 50% of the total dietary antioxidants, mainly polyphenolics, transverse the small intestine linked to dietary fiber”. The authors of the paper go on to state that “It is concluded that the transportation of dietary antioxidants through the gastrointestinal tract may be an essential function of DF (dietary fiber)”. This may explain why new studies continue to find a profound association between fiber consumption and protection against various malignancies including colorectal, gastric and ovarian cancer. This is also why I recommend ensuring high fiber consumption no matter which diet you choose to follow. (7,8,9)

Be well!

JP

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Best of Quit Smoking for Good

According to recent figures released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approximately $200 million dollars are wasted each year in health care costs and loss of productivity due to smoking. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, smoking related deaths will reach the 8 million mark annually. These figures may be shocking to some. But by now, almost everyone is aware of the health hazards associated with cigarettes. Still, the fact remains that many people continue to engage in this self destructive habit. The harsh truth is that once you get hooked on nicotine, it’s not so easy to break free. But, there are some holistic practices that may assist those who are ready to quit to find some much needed support.

There are obviously many reasons why an individual begins and continues to smoke. It’s pretty well established in the medical literature that cigarettes are frequently used to manage chronic anxiety, clinical depression and ordinary stress. Therefore, scientists frequently look to mind-body techniques, natural anti-depressants and prescriptive medications that tend to target these feelings and the biological chemicals that control them. (1,2,3)

One of the most widely used naturopathic substances for psychological conditions is Saint John’s Wort (SJW) extract. In recent years there have been several scientific inquiries into the potential application of SJW in helping smokers break the habit. First, the more promising findings:

In July, an animal study determined that SJW can inhibit dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin uptake in the brain. This allows for greater concentrations of these antidepressant neurotransmitters to be present and “may additionally provide a rationale for the treatment of nicotine or drug addiction with SJW”. These findings are supported by two other trials that found behavioral and biochemical changes in mice who were treated with SJW extracts. The mice in question exhibited fewer signs of nicotine withdrawal and greater concentrations of the “feel good” neurotransmitter serotonin. (4,5,6)A 2006 trial published in the journal Complimentary Therapies in Medicine found similar success in 24 human smokers. Each volunteer was given a 450 mg capsule of SJW twice daily over the course of 12 weeks. By the end of the study, the “quit rate” was 37.5%, significantly higher than the average smoking cessation rates found with conventional treatments. No change in weight or adverse effects were noted. (7)

Unfortunately, other research has demonstrated less impressive results. Because the following experiments were conducted on human subjects, in a more controlled manner, they hold more weight from a scientific standpoint.

A study released in June 2009 examined the impact of 900 mg of SJW extract and 400 mcg of chromium (a trace mineral often used to manage blood sugar and weight) or a placebo in 143 patients. All of the participants received treatment two weeks prior to their proposed “quit day” and continued taking said treatments for 14 additional weeks. Those on SJW did not fair any better than those using the placebo. However, there was a trend toward less weight gain in the chromium users. Another human trial from 2006 failed to find a benefit in 28 smokers receiving a lower dosage of SJW (300 mg – 600 mg). (8,9)

There will likely be more research on the potential of Hypericum perforatum (SJW) in the years to come. Some scientists still believe that under the right circumstances, it may yield benefits to those looking to overcome nicotine addiction. But since the current state of evidence is inconsistent at best, here’s a brief review of several other natural options that appear to offer real hope. (10)

Hypnosis - A recent study at the San Francisco Veteran Affairs Medical Center found that hypnosis outperformed “standard behavioral counseling” (20%-24% success rates vs. 14%-18%). Smokers with a history of depression responded even better to hypnosis. Other researchers have reported smoking cessation success rates of between 40% – 81%. The variations found may have to do with differences in patient selection and the forms of hypnotherapy involved. More research is currently underway to help determine how to best utilize this mind body practice. (11,12,13,14)Massage - An interesting, but preliminary study from 1999 found that self-administered ear and hand massage helped to reduce cigarette cravings, improved mood, lowered anxiety scores and ultimately diminished withdrawal symptoms in a group of 20 smokers. The portion of the group that practiced self-massage also smoked less by the end of the 1 month experiment. (15)Mindfulness Meditation - A pilot study conducted at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine’s Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention found significant benefits for 18 smokers who underwent 8 weeks of instruction in mindfulness meditation. At the beginning of the trial, the smokers averaged about 20 cigarettes per day. 6 weeks after their “quit date” and the mindfulness training, 56% (10 out of the 18 volunteers) achieved a “7-day point-prevalent smoking abstinence”. Those who practiced mindfulness meditation most frequently demonstrated the greatest results in terms of smoking cessation and an improvement in mood and stress levels. At present there are two other nicotine-addiction/mindfulness trials underway at the MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Pittsburgh. (16,17,18)

Source: British Medical Journal – July 2007 (a)

The most important point that I want to get across is that there really is support out there for anyone who wants to stop smoking. If the modalities that I’ve described above are not appealing to you, other options are available. For instance, certain forms of acupuncture and guided imagery appear to hold great promise in this arena. (19,20,21,22)

Ultimately, it’s vital that you quit by any means necessary. But the added bonus of incorporating these holistic practices into your daily routine is that they can also help improve overall quality of life. Reducing stress levels and improving mood impacts every aspect of perception. If you or someone you care about is struggling with nicotine addiction, I hope you’ll consider the alternative therapies I’ve presented here today.

Update: January 2011 - It’s long been known that smoking accelerates the aging process. There are few organs that make this more obvious than the skin. And while some researchers are investigating the exact mechanisms behind this observation, others are examining this cause-and-effect relationship in more practical terms. A recent paper in the journal Skinmed reports that quitting smoking can lead to dramatic changes in skin aging and appearance in as little as 6 months. In fact, after just 9 months of being smoke-free, a group of 64 women reduced the biological age of their skin by an estimated 13 years. If good health alone isn’t reason enough to quit, perhaps vanity will provide an added incentive. (23,24,25)

Be well!

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Fish Oil and Kidney Health

Whenever I begin working with new clients, I always ask them to fill out a few forms and questionnaires. Some people do so without any issue. But every once in a while I’m asked why it’s necessary to provide answers to medical questions that appear to be unrelated to the health concerns at hand. Without fail, I explain that dietary choices, environment, lifestyle factors and psychological matters quite often contribute to physical complaints. This is a foundational principle of holistic medicine and one that cannot be under emphasized.

An example of this philosophy can be applied to the topic of kidney stones. Renal lithiasis or kidney stones are formed when there is an imbalance in certain acids and minerals found in urine. This can cause crystals and “stones” to form and sometimes become lodged in the urinary tract. This, in turn, affects the ability of urine to pass through and thereby often results in severe pain in the back, groin region and lower abdomen. However, these and other dreaded symptoms associated with kidney stones are only a small part of the picture. As it turns out, the incidence of renal lithiasis may also be related to other more significant health concerns.

I’ll get back to the more global impact of kidney stones later in this column. But first I’d like to provide some practical information about a relatively unknown way to reduce the likelihood of developing such deposits in the first place. A just published study in the Journal of Urology reports that 900 mg of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 600 mg of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) daily for 30 days resulted in a 23% reduction in calcium oxalate “due to significantly decreased urinary oxalate excretion” in a group of 15 healthy adults. This indicates that these fish oil-based omega-3 fatty acids may benefit “calcium oxalate stone formers” when used as a long-term preventive measure. (1)

This isn’t the first mention of a proposed link between select fatty acids and kidney stones. Previous trials conducted in animal and human subjects reveal that: a) a dosage of 1,800 mg of EPA/day lowers the recurrence of kidney stones in patients who already received treatment; b) a combination of EPA and lipoic acid (an anti-oxideant) inhibits stone formation and limits oxalate toxicity to the kidneys in an experimental animal model; c) a study from 1996 found that 30 days of fish oil supplementation “lowered calcium and oxalate urine excretion, and normalized erythrocyte oxalate exchange”; d) populations that consume large quantities of fish, such as Greenland Eskimos, are documented as having a lower risk of “degenerative diseases including stone disease”. (2,3,4,5)

Kidney Stones Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease

Source: CJASN April 2009 vol. 4 no. 4 804-811 (a)

I want to revert back to the holistic model I mentioned earlier. Recent publications in prestigious medical journals are now pointing to a probable link between components of kidney stones including uric acid and vascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. High levels of uric acid are also connected to an increased risk of gout and kidney disease. A dramatic illustration appears in the October 2010 issue of the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. In it, an examination of 10,860 healthy men and women, and 4,564 “stone formers” found that those at risk for kidney stones were 38% more likely to have a heart attack and at a 31% greater risk of developing chronic kidney disease or other co-morbidities over a 9 year follow-up period. (6,7,8)

I think it’s no coincidence that eating fish regularly and/or supplementing with fish oil also appears to protect against the very same conditions previously mentioned. Numerous studies in the medical literature show a robust benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in patients with chronic renal failure. The same is true in relation to DHA and EPA plasma levels and the risk of heart attacks or myocardial infarctions. More studies in this area are clearly needed. However, based on what we know now, it seems that fish oil supports both cardiovascular and renal health in part by moderating blood pressure, heart rate and triglycerides in at-risk patients. So even if you’re unaware of any genetic predisposition toward kidney stones, you might still want to consider whether you’re getting enough omega-3s in your daily diet. (9,10,11,12,13)

Be well!

JP

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Best Of Snacking Confusion

Does snacking assist with weight loss or encourage weight gain? At first glance the answer may seem obvious. Many people come to the conclusion that adding a snack or two to your daily schedule surely increases caloric intake and, thereby, contributes to extra pounds. Well, that’s one theory. Another theory is that snacking between meals can help balance blood sugar and stave off overeating in subsequent meals. So which of these competing hypotheses is correct? I’ll give you my two cents on this debate in today’s Healthy Monday tip.

I sometimes feel like a judge presiding over a natural health courtroom. I hear different sides of the same case and I’m left to rule on which argument is the most accurate. In my many years of practice, I’ve determined that the only way to sift through the more prejudicial aspects of health issues is to go directly to the source of the evidence. In my line of work that means reviewing the medical literature myself rather than relying on commentary.

A new US study on snacking was published in the June 16th issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It searched for a link between snack frequency and obesity in an adolescent population. In all, a total of 5,811 boys and girls took part in the evaluation. The results indicate that the kids who snacked most often were less likely classified as overweight or obese. There was also a similar trend with regard to abdominal obesity which is considered a risk factor for blood sugar irregularities such as insulin resistance. (1)

Unfortunately, the issue of snacking and weight gain isn’t quite so straight forward as evidenced by a Spanish trial, also published in June 2010. In this instance, 10,162 university graduates were the test subjects. The researchers tallied snacking habits for an average of 4.6 years using food-frequency questionnaires. The findings here were the exact opposite of the previously mentioned study. The authors discovered a 69% higher risk of developing obesity in “usual snackers”. (2)

The global picture of the proposed snacking/weight link becomes even more inconclusive when two additional studies from Africa and Canada are factored into the equation. The first examined the effects of a “snacking diet” in 1,072 adults living in the small, west African country of Ouagadougou. The findings reveal that there was no relationship between overweight and the participants’ “snacking score”. The second inquiry focused on Kanien’kehaka (Mohawk) children. The conclusion of the authors from the University of Montreal determined that “children at risk of overweight” tended to snack on higher calorie foods and did so more frequently than children with a healthy body mass index. The take home message was that, “Differences detected in snack food intake between normal-weight children and children at risk of overweight could explain in part the relationship between food choices and risk of overweight”. (3,4)

US Snacking Statistics Suggest Disconcerting Nutritional TrendsSource: Health Aff (Millwood). 2010 Mar–Apr; 29(3): 398–404. (a)

It’s not unusual to find conflicting studies in cases where diverse patient populations are involved. The good news is that the lack of scientific consensus shouldn’t affect your decision about whether to snack or not. Why? Because researchers have given us clear tools about how we can snack healthfully, *if* we feel the need to snack.

The first concept to keep in mind is that you need to eat consciously. Mindless snacking almost certainly leads to poor food choices and improbable weight control. However, there is a simple, two-step approach to snacking that helps almost anyone to do so constructively: 1) compile a list of healthy snacks and take note of what a typical serving size looks like; 2) keep a daily, food diary and review it on a regular basis. Both of these steps connect your body and your brain. This is an essential process that helps educate you from a nutritional and psychological standpoint. One without the other rarely works in the long term. (5)

When putting together a list of healthy snack items, keep in mind what your ultimate goal should be – nourishment. This doesn’t mean that you can’t opt for delicious options. By all means, do so. But in the process, try selecting candidates that also provide good sources of fiber, healthy fat and protein. A few of my favorite snacks include avocado slices wrapped with prosciutto, celery topped with almond butter and deviled eggs. By choosing foods with this type of macro-nutrient profile you’ll likely find that you can snack without increasing your daily caloric intake. Sound too good to be true? According to several studies, this is possible because healthy snacking tends to reduce your caloric intake in subsequent meals. This is a real world way of “having your cake and eating it too”. (6,7,8)

Update: December 2010 - A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition evaluated the effects of adding two different types of snacks to a typical weight loss diet. The diet in question called for a menu plan that contained 500 fewer calories than what was needed to maintain the starting weights of the participants. Two groups of obese volunteers were assigned to the diet which included one of two afternoon isocaloric snacks: 1) 53 grams of salted pistachios; 2) 56 grams of salted pretzels. The findings of the 12 week study reveal that both variations of the diet successfully promoted weight loss. But the primary reason for the trial in the first place was to determine whether snacking itself would alter the expected reduction in weight caused by a calorie deficit. It didn’t. However there were a few relevant differences between the groups eating the pistachios and the pretzels. The pistachio group lost more weight and also exhibited a meaningful decline in triglyceride levels in comparison to the pretzel group. This provides the latest evidence supporting the use of higher protein/lower carbohydrate snacks, if you decide to snack at all. (9)

Be well!

JP

View the original article here

Hot Spiced Cereal Recipe

When you’re on a gluten-free, low carbohydrate diet you need to be inventive if you hope to have a richly satisfying and varied diet. I follow this type of eating plan because it suits my health better than any other diet I’ve ever tried before. The science supporting the avoidance of gluten, a protein found in many grains, and carbohydrate restriction played a big part in informing my decision. Thankfully, I’ve also created and discovered numerous recipes and products that help make my chosen diet a pleasure instead of a burden.

This past week has been particularly chilly in Southern California. One rainy morning, I had a hankering for something comforting and warm to start the day off right. In the days of old that would have meant making some traditional oatmeal topped with banana slices and perhaps a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Of course that’s about as far off of my current menu plan as one could imagine – a veritable carb fiesta.

I know that I’m not the only low carber out there who yearns for hot cereal every now and then. So if you’re like me in this respect, take heart. It is possible to create natural alternatives to cream of wheat and oatmeal using healthier ingredients. Today I’m going to give you a foundation recipe that illustrates exactly how it can be done. For those not following a carbohydrate or gluten restricted diet, consider trying this alternative concoction anyway. What’s presented below can be healthfully incorporated into virtually any style of dietary plan and will almost certainly enhance your nutrient density.

Healthy Fellow Hot Spiced Cereal
1 cup unsweetened almond milk *
1/4 cup almond flour/meal
4 Tbs flaxseed powder
3 Tbs unsweetened coconut (shredded)
a dash of various spices to taste **
1/2 tsp organic vanilla extract
1 dropperful of liquid stevia ***
a dash of NutraSalt

* Product used: Blue Diamond Almond Breeze – Unsweetened Vanilla Flavor (refrigerated variety) ** I used organic allspice, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves and nutmeg. *** Product used: NuNaturals PURE LIQUID Alcohol Free Stevia

Nutritional Content: Calories: 470. Protein: 14 grams. Fat: 38 grams. Fiber: 14 grams. “Net” Carbohydrates: 8 grams.

Start by pouring the almond milk and vanilla extract into a quart-sized sauce pot over a low-heat setting. Add the dried spices to the liquid. Combine the almond flour, flax meal and shredded coconut to the pot. Stir continually for the next 3 minutes or so. Put in the dropperful of stevia and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Turn off the heat once the mixture reaches your desired consistency.

Source: J Am Coll Nutr. 2008 October; 27(5): 547–552. (a)

The reason I believe this hot cereal is superior can best be explained by citing several recent studies found in the medical literature. The base of my cereal (almonds, coconut and flax seeds) is scientifically shown to: a) lower several established risk factors associated with coronary heart disease including apolipoprotein B100, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and total cholesterol; b) protect against oxidative damage to cholesterol and heart mitochondria; c) reduce systemic inflammation in the form of C-reactive protein. Taken collectively, these documented effects point to this as being a highly protective nutritional formula for anyone concerned about heart disease and stroke. (1,2,3)

When preparing this recipe, I suggest you spice it as liberally as your palate allows. The aromatic components included in this dish aren’t just flavor enhancers or window dressing. For instance, allspice, cloves and nutmeg provide health benefits ranging from chemopreventive activity to potent free radical scavenging potential. In practical terms, they may very well protect the body from some of the destructive processes that contribute to health threats including cancer and cardiovascular disease. This humble recipe is yet another example of how we can strategically use food as preventive medicine. (4,5,6)

View the original article here

Ginger Cookie Recipe

New Year’s Day is a time when many people vow to make healthy changes in their diets. Reducing sugar intake frequently tops this to-do list. Beginning the process of dietary change with resolve goes a long way toward accomplishing this end. But for long term success, you’ll also need to plan ahead and pool together as many resources as possible. For instance, how are you going to react when you encounter your first, second or fiftieth craving for something sweet? Will you call upon your inner strength or join a support group to get you through? These are options that work well for some people. Another way to go is to opt for a similar type of treat that adheres to your new nutritional guidelines. In my experience, a combination of these and other strategies usually works best.

Cookies and milk go together like peanut butter and jelly or wine and cheese. It’s a great pairing provided that you’re able to enjoy both foods as part of your diet. Those who can’t consume milk may easily sidestep this dilemma by using the almond, rice or soy variety. Cookies present a whole different set of obstacles. If you’re diabetic or on a specialized diet, you may find that these baked delicacies are off limits because of multiple ingredients, including artificial colors and flavors, gluten, refined flour and, of course, sugar.

Thankfully, there’s no rule that says that you must make a cookie using any of the previously mentioned items. Do you know the primary reason why almost every commercially available cookie contains these ingredients? They’re addictive and they’re inexpensive. Most food manufacturers don’t care one lick about your well-being. They’re running a business which depends on producing products that are cheap and have an acceptable shelf life. From a business standpoint, this makes perfect sense. It’s just important that you know the rules of the game. On the other hand, when you make your own recipes at home, your primary goal can be to “manufacture a product” that promotes good health and tastes great.

Healthy Fellow Dunking Cookies
1 cup egg white protein powder *
1 cup hazelnut flour
1/3 – 1/2 cup Truvia (stevia)
1/2 cup organic butter
1 large, omega-3, organic egg
1 tsp organic vanilla extract
1 tsp organic cinnamon
1 tsp organic ginger
1 tsp NutraSalt or salt
1/2 tsp baking soda

* I used a sugar-free, vanilla flavored product by MRM called All Natural Egg White Protein.

Nutritional Information: Calories: 80. Protein: 4 grams. Fat: 6 grams. Fiber: 1 gram. “Net” Carbohydrates: 1 gram. Makes 25 cookies.

Pre-heat the oven to 325 ºF. Sift the dry ingredients, expect for the Truvia, in a large bowl. Mix well. In a separate container, blend thoroughly the egg, 1/4 cup of melted butter and Truvia. Add the liquid to the dry components and stir until it forms a dough-like consistency. Line a large baking sheet with natural parchment paper. Use a small scoop to divide the batter into uniformly sized pieces. Roll each scoop of dough into a ball shape in your hands. Place all of the dough balls on the lined baking sheet. Press them down into a cookie shape with a height of 1/4 “. Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the cookies to remain in the warm oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the edges of the cookies. As you soon as you detect some browning, remove from the oven and slide onto a cooling tray.

Cinnamon Protects Against Liver Damage Under Experimental Conditions

Source: J. Nutr. March 2009 vol. 139 no. 3 482-487 (a)

A rather large body of preliminary research indicates that both cinnamon and ginger may protect liver health from various dietary and environmental insults. In numerous animal models, these culinary spices have been shown to promote insulin sensitivity and reduce hepatic and serum lipid levels. These are particularly important in today’s health care environment where non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is becoming more costly and prevalent. There’s even some evidence that indicates a potential in alleviating medication-induced liver injury and possibly even lowering the risk of liver cancer. (1,2,3,4,5,6)

I’ve used cinnamon in a number of the recipes on this site. But it’s important to point out that it can be consumed in excess. There are a great many proposed benefits to Cassia cinnamon including anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor and cardiovascular supportive effects. However, it’s also true that cinnamon naturally contains varying amounts of coumarin, a potentially toxic chemical. The amount contained in my recipes will not present a problem, but using large quantities of ground cinnamon daily may lead to excessive anti-coagulation or blood thinning. This is also the reason why I suggest using a special, water-extracted form of cinnamon for clients who choose to use this spice on a daily basis over the long term. Coumarin is a lipid soluble component of cinnamon and isn’t present in meaningful quantities in aqueous cinnamon extracts. Being mindful of this isn’t meant to scare anyone. Rather, it’s intended to promote an environment where we’re all informed and respectful of the pros and cons of even the most natural foods and ingredients. (7,8,9,10,11,12)

Be well!

JP

View the original article here

Low Carbohydrate Renaissance

One of my favorite Christmas gifts this year came in the form of an article that my wife sent me via e-mail. The piece, “A Reversal on Carbs”, was written by Marnia Jameson and appeared in December 20th online edition of the Los Angeles Times. It features the voices of many of the leading nutritional scientists the world over. The general thrust of the publication is best summarized by Dr. Walter Willet, the chairman of the department of nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health. He emphatically states that, “If Americans could eliminate sugary beverages, potatoes, white bread, pasta, white rice and sugar snacks, we would wipe out almost all of the problems we have with weight and diabetes and other metabolic diseases”. I would’ve added a few additional foods to that list, but otherwise I agree wholeheartedly. (1)

Anyone who regularly reads my columns knows that I frequently criticize foods and food products that contain high glycemic and/or refined carbohydrates. What’s more, many of you already know that I’ve lost over 90 lbs primarily by restricting my overall carbohydrate intake. But you may not be aware of the physiological underpinnings behind my general recommendation to follow suit. Here’s a brief overview of the importance of moderating carbohydrate consumption:

In the body, carbohydrates are converted into blood sugar. Certain carbs such as those rich in starches (grains, potatoes) and sugar (candy, fruit juice) lead to quicker and more dramatic elevations in blood glucose. In order to deal with this rapid rise in blood sugar, the pancreas must release insulin in order to transport sugar from the blood into cells to provide a form of stored energy known as glycogen.

The problem is that the human body isn’t well adapted to handle the estimated 250 to 300 grams of carbohydrates that are commonly consumed in the modern diet. Over time, our cells become tired of trying to keep up with this unnatural burden. This leads to a dangerous situation referred to as insulin resistance. In essence, the insulin the body produces becomes less effective. Then the pancreas attempts to compensate for this abnormality by producing excessive amounts of insulin.

The result of this destructive cycle is typically diabetes, obesity and several risk factors pertaining to heart disease known collectively as metabolic syndrome. The specific threats involved include abdominal obesity, high blood pressure and blood sugar, high triglycerides and low HDL (“good”) cholesterol. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the US population has at least three of these symptoms – the benchmark for establishing metabolic syndrome.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that a large body of research indicates that making modest changes in your diet can help reverse the danger that a high carbohydrate diet presents. Several recent studies attest to the safety and value of making this very shift. For instance, the latest issue of the British Journal of Nutrition reports that an egg-rich, high protein/high cholesterol diet improved antioxidant levels, blood sugar control and cardiovascular risk factors in a group with type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance. Another trial using a very low carbohydrate (ketogenic) diet found that this dietary intervention improved memory performance and reduced waist circumference and weight in a group of 23 older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The authors noted that chronic inflammation, high insulin (hyperinsulinemia) and problems relating to energy metabolism are frequently present in those most at risk for Alzhmeimer’s disease and other neurocognitive diseases. Ketogenic diets are documented as addressing all of these issues and more. (2,3)

8-iso PGF2a (pg/mg creatinine)

Source: Lipids. 2010 October; 45(10): 947–962. (a)

The question I’m most often asked in reference to carbohydrate restricted diets is: Are they really safe? The answer in most instances is ‘yes’. This point of view is increasingly shared by clinicians, as evidenced by the growing number of studies utilizing lower carbohydrate diets in vulnerable populations including pregnant women and young children. The general consensus is that higher protein diets that emphasize low sugar source carbohydrates tend to protect against obesity and the health concerns that accompany the current epidemic of overweight. I’m convinced that this is the trend of the future. If you haven’t already done so, I strongly suggest that you take a look at the number and type of carbs in your own diet. If you’re like most people, you’d do well to reduce the number of total carbohydrates and replace some of them with healthy sources of fat, fiber, low glycemic fruits, non-starchy vegetables and protein. (4,5,6)

Be well!

JP

View the original article here

Tea Thryoid Danger

Even the healthiest foods and remedies aren’t recommended for certain people. A bowl of freshly picked, organic green leafy vegetables is a wonderful addition to most diets. But it can be a veritable poison if you happen to be allergic to the greens in question. Likewise, exceedingly benign treatments such as massage therapy need to be applied in an individualized manner. Does it make any sense to give a deep tissue massage to someone with a bleeding disorder? The fact of the matter is that all natural remedies ought to be viewed subjectively. Adverse reactions are not the exclusive domain of conventional medicine. (1,2,3)

Black, green and white teas are among the top antioxidant sources in modern and traditional diets. Phytochemicals found in the leaves of Camellia sinensis yield wide ranging health benefits that impact conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s Disease and numerous forms of cancer. However, the irony is that these very same free radical fighters that protect the body can also negatively impact thyroid function. (4,5,6)

Some natural health experts claim that tea’s naturally occurring fluoride content can harm the thyroid. It’s true that some sources of tea do contain fluoride. What’s more, excess intake of fluoride from any source can lead to thyroid dysfunction. This concern is relevant enough for me to recommend asking tea manufacturers whether they test for aluminum, fluoride and other potentially toxic minerals in their products prior to buying them. Having said that, it doesn’t appear that these undesirable elements are predominantly responsible for the anti-thryoid activity in tea. (7,8,9)

The best information we currently have to work with stems from several animal studies on the topic. The latest investigation, published in the August 2010 issue of the journal Human & Experimental Toxicology, describes how green tea has greater anti-thryoidal potential than black tea because of its higher content of polyphenolic flavonoids. This finding is corroborated in other recent examinations which mostly point to select antioxidants known as catechins as the culprit. In animal models higher levels of green tea intake generally bring about dysfunction in the thyroid gland via decreased levels of serum thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), reduced activity of thyroid peroxidase and even thyroid lesions. (10,11,12,13)

Source: Hippokratia. 2010 Apr–Jun; 14(2): 82–87. (a)

Before jumping to any conclusions, I think it’s important to take a few factors into account. Firstly, the studies available have all been conducted in animal subjects. The results demonstrated in such trials often do not translate to human populations. Also, several observational studies have examined a proposed link between tea consumption and thyroid cancer. If anything, these epidemiological investigations have concluded that tea appears to afford a protective effect. This would argue against the widespread anti-thyroidal activity of tea in a real world setting. (14,15,16)

Related trials in humans have examined the impact of other goitrogenic foods. Most have not raised significant cause for concern. For instance, a recent intervention conducted at the University of South Carolina found that daily consumption of soy protein (67.5 grams/day) failed to “affect thyroid end points” in a group of 25 postmenopausal women. Ensuring adequate dietary iodine also appears to be an important part of the equation. Iodine-replete diets may afford protection against the thyroid suppressive activity of many common foods. But there’s really no sense in playing guessing games with such an important matter. If you consume large quantities of tea or other foods that may affect the thyroid (cruciferous vegetables, peanuts, soy, etc.) make sure to have your thyroid function tested – especially if you exhibit any of the symptoms associated with hypothryoidism. This will allow you and your health care team to make any necessary adjustments to your diet. (17,18,19,20,21)

Be well!

JP

View the original article here

Positive Interactions: St. John’s Wort

Interactions between medications and nutritional supplements is a frequently cited concern by many health authorities and rightfully so. Part of the earnest trepidation has to do with the unknown effects that may occur when combining various foods, herbs, over-the-counter drugs and the like. The bottom line is that there are so many variables that it’s nearly impossible to predict exactly what will happen in such circumstances. Furthermore, the same holds true for patients who are taking multiple medications at the same time. There simply isn’t a viable way to conduct clinical trials to study every conceivable combination given to patients. But something that’s often lost in the mix is that interactions can also produce positive effects as well.

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) tops the list when it comes to potential drug-supplement interactions. This natural antidepressant is a documented inducer of an enzyme known as cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 which can affect the metabolism of a large number of medications. This is why it’s very important to let your pharmacist and physicians know if you’re taking this herbal remedy prior to mixing with other medications or surgical procedures. (1)

Three recent studies point to a completely different sort of interaction that can also occur when utilizing H. perforatum extracts – a health promoting synergistic effect. The latest issue of the journal Fitoterapia reports that emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence indicates that combining St. John’s wort with passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) “significantly enhances the pharmacological potency of Hypericum”. The researchers involved concluded that this “suggests that the antidepressant therapeutic effects of Hypericum are possible with lower doses, when it is combined with Passiflora”. (2)

Another traditional use of H. perforatum is as a topical, anti-inflammatory preparation. A just published trial from Gazi University, Turkey describes that a blend of oils from olives, oregano, sage and St. John’s wort effectively promotes wound healing in an animal model. Other benefits, including bactericidal and fungicidal capacity, were exhibited by the medicinal ointment. Also noteworthy is that the combination of these therapeutic ingredients produced better results than a comparison cream containing only St. John’s wort and olive oil. The current results tend to support the historical use of select essential oils in protecting against skin infections while, at the same time, promoting the healing process. (3)

St. John’s Wort Extract (Hypericin) Is Being Investigated for It’s Anti-Cancer Potential

Source: Int J Mol Sci. 2010; 11(2): 562–594. (a)

Combining St. John’s wort with other floral and plant extracts isn’t a foreign concept to herbalists and natural healers the world over. However combining it with an extract of prawns and celery and using it to manage multiple sclerosis (MS) is certainly thinking “outside the box”. As unusual as it may sound, that’s exactly what a group of Iranian scientists is doing. Preliminary studies in both humans and test animals have found that this “herbal-marine compound” may ” slow down or halt the progression of multiple sclerosis” in an animal model and improve the quality of life of human patients with MS. Additional research and independent corroboration of this experimental medicine needs to be conducted. But it certainly seems to be an item worth following. (4,5,6,7)

This research presented today clearly illustrates what I firmly believe: most foods and herbs aren’t “one trick ponies”. They differ significantly from conventional medications in that these flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, seeds and stems often contain hundreds of (phyto)chemicals. In comparison, most prescriptive drugs are an isolated, synthesized chemical. This is but one reason why natural substances can impact animal and human health in very diverse ways. It’s not magic or just wishful thinking. It’s chemistry. And not all chemistry takes place within the sterile confines of a research laboratory.

Be well!

JP

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The Latest Celebrity Beauty Trend, Herbal Breast Enhancement Pills

The Latest Celebrity Beauty Trend, Herbal Breast Enhancement Pills

The Latest Celebrity Beauty Trend, Herbal Breast Enhancement Pills
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Since 1980 breast implants have been every flat chested girls dream, but nowadays we read about celebrities who remove their implants.

Yesterday I read about Sienna Miller in the news. She had to lose weight for her role in The Factory Girl and lost her breasts as well. With only a B-cup size she was desperate to get her C-cups back. According to Grazia magazine, she is consuming £200 a pack herbal breast enhancement pills / capsules which contain saw palmetto, fenugreek, yam root, kelp and fennel seed, that promise to increase your breast size by one-two cup sizes. and has told friends: “I don’t even need a bra now. It’d be wonderful to have some womanly curves again, I dream about it.”

It’s a lot of money for breast enhancement pills, but why is that an option more attractive then breast implants?

1. First of all you can expect a natural result. Every person nowadays knows how to spot a pair of silicone breasts. Silicone breasts look like silicone breasts. They are hard and stiff looking and silicone breasts are not shaped like natural breasts. Natural breasts are obviously more beautiful.

2. Secondly people are more informed today about the risks with plastic surgery and implants. It wasnt long ago the singer Kanye Wests mother died after a cosmetic surgery procedure. In Sweden there was a big lawsuit against an american company and manufacturer of silicone implants. Many hundered swedish women were suffering consequenses after a couple of years after breast augmentation. Todaty we know that silicone implants lasts for 7-20 years. After 7 years it is important to consider to exchange the old implant ynto new once.

3. The ingredients in breast enhancement pills does not only make your breast larger. The ingredients is good in general for womens health. So I guess Sienna Millers breast enhancement pills might be a good alternative to cosmetic breast enlargement.

Read more about breast enhancement pills, breast enlargement pills and herbal natural breast enhancement

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lViews: 561

Free Millionaire Dating Site for Wealthy Rich Men and Beautiful Women

Jetsetmatch.com is the first free millionaire dating site for millionaires, models & international jetsetters. Most dating sites are not 100% free even though they claim to be. Jetsetmatch is a 100% non profit vip club.

By:
Larapl

Relationships>
Datingl
Dec 07, 2008
lViews: 1,773

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