Professor Gerald Holtman believes Herbal Medicine is working better than most chemically defined compounds - Find out why. IBEROGAST
Up to 30% of the population suffer gastrointestinal symptoms as a result of disorders such as IBS and functional dyspepsia (FD). Patients may complain of bloating, cramping, constipation, reflux, flatulence, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Iberogast has been specifically clinically proven in 19 clinical trials to relieve the symptoms of IBS and FD. This means it is the EXACT product that has been clinically trialled and proven to be effective and very well tolerated.
The multi-targeted action of the 9 herbal extracts in Iberogast is ideal for these disorders, which have multicausalities and present with multiple symptoms that cannot be effectively treated with monotherapy.
Iberogast has been assigned Aust R registration, which means the safety, quality and efficacy of its supporting data have been independently reviewed and approved.
www.flordis.com.au/iberogast/practitioner/pdf/trials/treatment_with_herbal_preparation.pdf
http://www.flordis.com.au/iberogast/practitioner/pdf/interviews/jane.pdf
Water
Water is one of the most undervalued resources for boosting energy and it's free! Did you know that being slightly dehydrated can cause your brain to temporarily shrink, and therefore cause a reduction in mental focus? The good news is that your brain can quickly return to its full size once you re-intorduce more water to your day. Ideally, we should be having 30mL (one medicine cup) per kg of body weight. During colder weather, this can be difficult but herbal teas can be counted towards your daily fluid intake. One tip though - if you drink fluids with your meals then you dilute your stomach acid, which makes it harder for your body's enzymes to break down your food. This can lead to fatigue after eating. Try to stop fluids about 20 minutes before each of your main meals.
Otago Farmers Market
If you haven't been along to the Dunedin Railway Station on a Saturday morning, then you must.
It's a great opportunity to buy the freshest produce, directly from the buyer.
As the seasons change, so do the vendors and their products. Keep up to date with what products are currently at the market and try something new - at the moment I would recommend the Globe Artichokes - delicious roasted and great for your liver!
For more info, go to -
http://www.otagofarmersmarket.org.nz/
Hidden Toxins in Common Plastics
Plastics are so common today that they are generally regarded as a safe and useful product. Although plastics do have many advantages and it would be difficult to do without them, many studies are now confirming that there is more in plastic than meets the eye.
Bisphenol A
One of the most widely studied chemicals contained in everyday plastics is Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is an oestrogenic compound contained in plastics and now in most human bodies in the developed world. After studies published in the Journal of the Americal Medical Association (JAMA) in 2008 associated BPA with serious diseases and infertility it has been brought into the spotlight.
In March 2010, BPA in food and beverage containers and utensils marketed to children were banned, and several international companies also voluntarily ceased using BPA in their infant products.
In June, Canada brought in regulations to to prohibit the use of BPA in babies bottles. Babies bottles usually are made with plastics containing BPA in Australia, as are the majority of water bottles and containers sold.
Plastics with a 3, 6 and especially 7 in the recycling symbol contain BPA and should therefore be avoided. You will commonly see these symbols on water cooler bottles, hard and soft plastic drink bottles, babies bottles and many other common household items.
Phthalates
Like BPA, phthalates have the ability to disrupt hormones, mimicking the female hormone oestrogen in the body. Phthalates are found in high concentrations in shower curtains and vinyl flooring.
There has been a EU ban on the use of phthalates however they are still used in many household items such as plastic furniture and packaging.
A recent study tested urine samples of pregnant women for phthalates. The mothers, who gave birth to 74 boys and 71 girls were followed up until the children were 7 years of age.
One of the remarkable findings of this study was that the boys of mothers who had high pregnancy levels of phthalates were less likely to play with cars, trains and guns and engage in rougher games like play fighting.
The researchers of the study described phthalates as "gender benders", having feminising qualities in children.
Two of the most common phthalates are DEHP, which is used to make PVC soft and pliable in products like flooring, and DBP, used as a plasticiser in glues, dyes and textiles.
Some non-toxic plastic alternatives
There are many alternatives to these plastics becoming available on the market. Try some of these tips to lower your toxin input:
1. Use a glass or stainless steel drinking bottle for your water only. These are now readily available in healthshops and outdoor shops such as Kathmandu. As most schools have a no-glass policy, the stainless steel alternative are a great way to go.
2. Avoid using plastics to store food in - especially if being heated. A good alternative is pyrex food containers, which are made of glass. The same applies for heating food in the microwave - always put food onto a plate or in glass.
3. Opt for living with carpet or hardwood flooring instead of plastics, especially if you have babies crawling around.
4. Remove the plastic lid on your takeaway coffee cup.
5. Look for products that state that they are BPA and phthalate free. If you have to buy a bottle of water, the Charlie's Honest Water is BPA-free.
Radiation and Iodine
After the recent earthquake in Japan there have been concerns regarding radiation exposure and what preventative treatments are available in cases of exposure. Followup from the Chernobyl nuclear accident in 1986 found iodine deficiency to be linked to worse health outcomes, including higher incidence of thyroid cancer.
Potassium iodide has been recommended for the prevention and treatment of effects secondary to exposure to radiation, particularly radioactive iodine. The theory behind the suggested treatment is that if the iodine receptors in the thyroid do not have iodine molecules attached then radioactive iodine can latch onto receptors. By making sure iodine receptors are replete, the receptors are full and thus preventing radioactive iodine from being absorbed.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended daily requirement of iodine is 150mcg, and in pregnancy 250mcg per day; the level of iodine intake beyond which no added health benefit is expected is 500mcg. The WHO dose recommended for treatment of those in the nuclear fallout zone is 130mg, or over 1000 times above the normal recommended maximum dose and only for those subjected to very high levels of radiation.
Keep Kids Rehydrated for Learning
A study that correlated hydration and cognitive function in children found that dehydrated infants suffer confusion, irritability and lethargy. In young adults, even mild dehydration corresponding to 1% to 2% of body weight can lead to significant impairment of cognitive function.
Reference -
D’Anci KE et al. Hydration and cognitive function in children. NutrRev. 2006; 64(10): 457-64.
Christmas Recipe and Tips
Recipe for Christmas All Year Long!
Take a heap of child-like wonder
That opens up our eyes
To the unexpected gifts in life -
Each day a sweet surprise
Mix in fond appreciation
For the people whom we know
Like festive christmas candles
Each one has a special glow
Add some giggles and some laughter
A dash of christmas food
(Amazing how a piece of pie
Improves our attitude!)
Stir it all with human kindness
Wrap it up in love and peace
Decorate with optimism and
Our joy will never cease
If we all use this healthy recipe
We know we will remember
To be in the christmas spirit
Even when it's not December.
By Joanna Fuchs
With less than a month to go until Christmas it's about time to start planning for the silly season ahead. The end of the year is often a time for overindulging in both food and alcohol so I have provided a few helpful hints to help to get you through the festive season.
As you may be aware from your own experience or even the constant news stories on the topic, Australians and New Zealanders are fond of are drink or two. However too many of us drink at levels that are hazardous to our health. And it’s not just the Uni generation.
New research released on the 1st of December 2010 shows that ‘Baby Boomers’ are more likely to drink alcohol every day than those under the age of 25! Baby boomers also continue to binge drink at rates higher than ever before and are at an increased risk of alcohol-related harm due to interactions with prescriptions medications and poorer detoxification of alcohol.
So what are some signs that you should be looking for? What are the short term effects of excessive alcohol consumption?
- Increased risk of falls, accidents, hospitalisations, violence, improper sexual behaviour Increased risk of fatal car accidents (approximately 1/3 of fatalities involve drink driving), hangovers, physical inactivity and poor food choices.
- Increased risk of cancer (particularly breast, oral, throat, oesophageal and liver);
- Increased risk of obesity, hypertension, cirrhosis, alcoholism, impaired cognition, psychological problems, relationship breakdowns and dementia 40% of males and 35% of female long term drinkers are also smokers;
- 64% of males and 51% of female long term drinkers eat 1 or less pieces of fruit daily.
Silymarin found in Milk Thistle, has been shown to have beneficial effects for the management of alcohol related symptoms and for protection during times of consuming a rich, high fat diet. In vivo (test-tube) studies have found silymarin to have protective effects against both the acute and chronic damage caused by alcohol. Silymarin has also shown a positive influence on cholesterol levels, favourable effects on hepatic fat stores and insulin resistance and it is useful for both detoxification and weight loss protocols.
Looking for easy ways to eat healthy and keep off those added kilos this Christmas season without sacrificing the foods you love? Here are some simple suggestions that you can give to your patients.
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1. Choose your drinks wisely
Alcoholic drinks are a source of empty calories and can often be consumed in excess over the festive season. Why not try some simple alcoholic alternatives? Consider substituting your regular beer for a lower carbohydrate option. However, even these low carb options are still a considerable source of sugars, carbohydrates and calories. If it’s a low calorie option you are looking for then opt for clear spirits. Gin and Vodka contain around 60 calories compared to the average beer which contains around 210 calories. But be careful what you mix it with, mixing these sprits with certain high sugar soft drinks can defeat the purpose of choosing the lower calorie option in the first place. Also, be sure to stay away from pre-mixed spirits as these contain much higher calories than the ones you mix yourself at home.
2. Greens first
Top up your plate with healthy vegetables, greens and salads before the meat and starchy (potato, kumera, carrot, turnip) vegetables. This will help to reduce the total caloric intake of the meal, increase your fibre intake and provide essential nutrients.
3. Sweet tooth?
It is a given that the Christmas period in a time for overindulgence – particularly in sweet and sugary foods. However there are healthier alternatives, consider dark chocolate rather than lollies and other sweets. Cocoa found in dark chocolate contains antioxidants which act to counteract the effects of cellular damage which can lead to a number of chronic diseases. Cocoa powder has also been shown to lower blood pressure and elevate mood. Also, looking for sweet options that have reduced sugar, artificial colours and flavours would also be a good option.
4. Look to the sea for Christmas Day meal ideas!
Instead of the traditional roast ham or pork why not try a whole fish on the barbeque, or baking a salmon? Not only does fish taste great but it is also provides the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids including supporting cardiovascular and brain health as well as being a potent anti-inflammatory. Fish also contains reduced amounts of saturated fats compared to their red meat counterparts. If you do prefer turkey and were wondering why everyone likes to have a nap on christmas day, part of the reason may be due to the tryptophan content in turkey which calms the brainwaves, making you feel more relaxed and sleepy.
5. Don’t forget the kids!
Keep the kids healthy and happy this Christmas by providing them with improved meal options. Replace the sugar filled and artificially coloured soft drinks with sparkling mineral water with a dash of fruit juice. Swap lollies and chips for nuts (for children without allergies), dried fruit, rice crackers, low fat cupcakes and vegetable sticks with tasty dips - this will also help you to avoid hyperactive children! Also, make sure that your meal option is similar to theirs – kids won’t want to eat vegetables and nuts if you’re not eating them too!
Should you take Fish Oil?
Most people do not consume enough fish in their diets and there is always the debate regarding the issue of mercury content in fish, farmed fish and polluted waters. Fish oil supplements undergo strict testing however there are reasons why some are cheap and the higher quality ones cost more.
There are numerous potential benefits of consuming the long-chain omega-3 fats found in fish oil. There are hundreds of studies which show the positive effects on health and some of these include -
- Cardiovascular benefits such decreased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, abnormal heart rhythms, and stroke. In addition to reducing blood clots and inflammation, fish oil can improve blood vessel elasticity, lower triglycerides and boost HDL ('good') cholesterol and lower blood pressure.
- Benefits for arthritis and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, raunaud's disease, psoraisis and autoimmune diseases.
- Mental health benefits such as improving and preventing depression, improving memory and reduced risk of developing psychosis or schizophrenia.
Some studies have also found consuming fish oils can ease period pain, PMS, eczema and inflammatory bowel disease.
When choosing a fish oil supplement, look for the quantity of the active components EPA (for arthritis or cardiovascular problems) and DHA (for brain development and function). The higher of each the better.
In general, 1000-2000mg of omega-3 fish oils per day is a healthy dosage however consult your health care provider for specific recommendations.