Category: Blog

A Naturopathic Approach to Pain

Chronic pain can be a debilitating condition. Last week we discussed some of the science behind pain, this week we will look into the naturopathic approach to pain.
 
There are lots of different reasons why a person may be experiencing pain. It is important to take the time to identify the root cause so that it can be targeted in the treatment.  For some people chronic pain is a musculoskeletal problem, for others, it’s a problem within the nervous system, immune system, digestive system, circulatory system, respiratory system or multiple of these. In an appointment for pain, you can expect a full workup with detailed questioning, a review of systems and physical exams.
 
It is also important to remember that pain affects everyone’s life differently.  Just like taking Tylenol won’t work for everyone’s pain, neither will prescribing the same treatments. Looking at a comprehensive overview of a person’s medical history and their lifestyle helps naturopathic doctors to create individualized treatment plans.
 
Dr. Mason-Wood, ND uses these principles of finding the root cause and individuality to guide the management of chronic pain. On top of graduating as a Naturopathic Doctor, he has taken multiple additional courses to further his learning and is able to provide some of the best pain treatments. Based on his evaluation of the patient, different modalities may be utilized, such as diet, counselling, botanicals, neural therapy, ozone therapy, biopuncture, acupuncture, prolotherapy or prolozone therapy. To get a personalized pain management treatment, book your appointment with Dr. Mason-Wood, ND today!

What is Pain?

We have all experienced pain sometime in our lives. Pain can be a protective measure that helps us know something is wrong. However, when pain lasts for a long time, it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. 1 in 5  Canadians live with chronic pain and it is one of the major sources of disability in the country.  In this article, we will break down a bit of the science behind pain.

Nociception

In our skin, tissue and organs,  there are nerve cells that sense harmful substances. These nerve cells, called nociceptors, will send a message to the brain that we perceive as pain.  Nociception causes sudden, short-lasting pain.

Nociception is also responsible for a protective mechanism called the withdrawal reflex. When we come in contact with something harmful, like stepping on a tack or touching a hot pot, our bodies react moving away from the “danger” without even thinking. Shortly after this reflex, the nociceptors send messages to the brain to recognize that experience as a painful experience which helps us learn not to do it again.

Chemical Signaling of Pain 

In addition to the nerve stimulation of pain through nociception, there are also chemical messengers that are released. These chemicals are released around the “problem areas” and can cause inflammation and make the nociceptors more sensitive to pain. These chemicals signal the body’s immune cells to gather at the problem area, provide nutrients and promote healing.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is pain lasting longer than 3 months. It is a very complex problem and can be debilitating to almost all aspects of a person’s life. There are many different causes and body systems involved. Some of the different reasons why a person may be experiencing chronic pain include…

  • increased sensitivity of the pain nerve fibres
  • the body not being able to block pain signals after there is no longer the threat
  • An underlying issue that causes pain (ex: fibromyalgia, nerve damage and arthritis)

There are many other reasons that may cause chronic pain as well. Chronic pain management requires an in-depth investigation and a multimodal approach. At Natural Terrain, Dr. Mason-Wood,ND treats chronic pain. Book your appointment today!

Concussions: Naturopathic Doctors can support you in your healing

Concussions are injuries to the brain after a traumatic injury. In fact, concussions are also known as mild traumatic brain injuries. But for a lot of people living with concussions, the symptoms and effects on daily life are anything but mild.  Trauma such as a car accident, sports injury or a fall causes the brain to shift abruptly in the skull. This causes there to be a shearing force on the brain causing neurological imbalances in the brain and can damage brain cells, resulting in what we call a concussion. While the brain is recovering after a concussion, it is more sensitive to the stimulus around it which can cause symptoms such as sensitivity to light, vision problems, nausea and vomiting, altered mental state, memory problems, and many more.

While concussions generally resolve on their own in 7 – 10 days, long term consequences can occur that can last months or years after the initial brain trauma. In Post-Concussion Syndrome, not only are many of the concussion symptoms persisting, but a person may also be experiencing personality changes, mental health issues, sleeping problems, and problems with staying focused. These symptoms can make it difficult to carry out daily functions such as working, going to school or interacting with others.

If you are dealing with a concussion or post-concussion syndrome, Naturopathic Medicine might be right for you. At Natural Terrain, Dr. Mason-Wood, ND is an experienced practitioner in treating concussions and post-concussion syndrome. Book your appointment today!

FOOD ALLERGIES: I had them as a kid, and treated them as a pediatrician

This article as been written by the Orthomolecular Medicine News Service and is posted with their permission. The peer-reviewed Orthomolecular Medicine News Service is a non-profit and non-commercial informational resource. Please subscribe to OMNS here  http://orthomolecular.org/subscribe.html and find archived articles here;  http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/index.shtml

by Ralph K. Campbell, MD

I am writing this out of the firm belief that “it takes one to know one.” I don’t know at exactly what age it started, and of course, my mother, now, can’t tell me. By school age, we both knew that a normal kid didn’t make the noises when talking like I did. Some described it as “he sounds like he has a clothespin on his nose.” What I am describing is nasal allergy due to sensitivity to cow’s milk.

A childhood dairy dilemma

In the ’30s and ’40s there was much general knowledge about vitamins, but little about food allergy. Fortunately, my mother stumbled (or was it was divine intervention?) across a remedy. She found I couldn’t tolerate a big glass of supposedly good-for-me cow’s milk. But tasty, readily available New York aged cheddar cheese didn’t give me any trouble.

We have since learned what was happening: The milk sensitivity was causing such swelling of the inferior nasal turbinates—mounds of tissue projecting toward the dividing septum, designed to moisten incoming air and trap dust and other particulates, like pollens—that they nearly completely blocked my nasal airway. Accompanying the swelling was itching, relieved by executing the “allergic salute” – a swipe of the nose with a sleeve that covered the forearm.

In this situation, secretions could only go down the “back door” where they irritate the area where the nasal airway drains into the throat. This is where the adenoid resides: a lump of lymphoid tissue like the tonsils, designed to intercept harmful bacteria. In children with nasal allergy, both of these areas of lymphoid tissue seem to enlarge, often prompting an adenoidectomy while leaving tonsils to their separate fate.

Ear issues

This also is the area where the Eustachian tubes converge. These tubes allow air to move out of the middle ear space so that the ear drum can vibrate when sound waves strike it. The ear drum is linked by three little bones to the inner ear and its drum-like membrane. The inner ear looks like a snail (so the medical term is cochlea), and is filled with a liquid. It is lined with “hair cells” along the spiral that are part of the auditory nerve. A marvelous mechanism: when sounds impinge upon this inner membrane, vibrations of the fluid sweep over the hair cells — those closest to the base of the membrane signal the high tones, and the more distant ones near the center of the cochlea signal the lower tones.”

The upshot of a stuffy nose and post nasal drip may be several possible problems including hearing loss. Since bacteria thrive better in warm, damp, dark places with poor ventilation, middle ear infections result. Pain can be a prominent feature of a flourishing middle ear infection. Ear infection has been identified as a top cause for a child needing an emergency room visit.

Asthma

Asthma is a condition in which the smooth muscle around branches of the respiratory tree (bronchi) constricts with varying intensity. Breathing out is more difficult because the pressure from the surrounding alveoli compresses the bronchi still further. It can be intense enough to be life-threatening and require the immediate relief from a shot of adrenalin. The bronchospasm (contraction of the smooth muscle around the bronchial tubes, narrowing the airways) makes it difficult (and sometimes frightening) to move air in or out. This attack can be precipitated by the patient’s food allergy or by many other factors such as irritants like dust, or by the polluted air we attempt to breathe. It also may be triggered by other allergens such as animal dander, dust mite excretions, and pollens. With so many causes of nasal allergy and asthma, it can be difficult to determine which food allergen is responsible. In 1957, I devised a procedure (described below) to help with this process. We expect food allergies to be manifest in the gastro intestinal track, and it helps to know the symptoms. But in looking for the culprit, if it also causes symptoms in the respiratory system, these are more distinctive and may appear more quickly after ingesting the food.

Who done it?

To pin down a food allergen, we need to remember what was eaten. Suspicious suspects are those foods related in time to the onset of signs and symptoms. One is not usually allergic to spaghetti, but to one or more of its ingredients: tomato, onion, garlic, wheat, etc. The culprit may be as obscure as Red Dye #2 in a breakfast cereal. This is no joke: that was exactly the situation for a boy under my care who had two separate bouts of immediate oral hypersensitivity, also known as angioedema. He was saved by emergency room visits. My own daughter twice experienced anaphylaxis and was hurried to the emergency department. Such episodes require urgent treatment.

What can we do?

First of all, be prepared to avoid big problems. If a patient has had an episode of angioedema, a self-administered form of adrenalin should be prescribed that can be nearby in case of another episode, and future food challenges should be done in the doctor’s office where emergency care can be given if needed.

For garden-variety allergies, make a list of suspicious foods and ingredients. If the reaction is repeated, then go to the “elimination and challenge” procedure. If there is a reaction, wait a few days for recovery, then challenge by trying this single suspect again. If there is a reaction, this is confirmation that this substance should be eliminated from the diet. Remember, this process is too slow if angioedema has been previously exhibited. A severe reaction must be treated immediately with life-saving adrenalin because of its effect on the respiratory tree, particularly swelling of the lining of the larynx and laryngospasm which can be accompanied by the more visible edema of the face. It is mentioned as a serious side effect in many drug ads. There is a wide range of severity in any of these allergy reactions. For example, intestinal allergy can put one out of shape for several days and be accompanied with headache and the “blahs.” Besides their obvious effect on breathing and the gut, food allergies can also produce “fuzzy thinking,” affect the excitatory neurotransmitters, and interfere with normal sleep.

As a side note, in the early 80’s, I corresponded with Dr. William G. Crook, a pediatric allergist in Georgia. We became pen pals as I responded to an article he wrote that was published in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, that seemed to cover everything I had thought about the subject. He sent me a copy of his book, “Tracking Down Hidden Food Allergy.” It was very readable, including illustrations by his daughter, and, best of all, was accepted by the medical community. [1]

Vitamin C and other nutritional helpers

Relief from allergy manifestations comes from avoidance of the culprit and high dose vitamin C. 2,000 mg of vitamin C every two hours is very effective and quick acting. [2,3]. A deficiency of magnesium and other minerals, very common in the modern world, can lead to asthma and many other health issues. In many cases, asthma symptoms can be reduced or prevented by appropriate doses of supplemental magnesium. [4-7]

Eating a better diet helps, too. [2,7]

  • Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
  • Stop eating cold cuts and other deli meats that are preserved, including hot dogs.
  • Eat more greens — a lot more — especially fresh and raw greens. Eat more legumes (unless there is a peanut allergy).
  • Drink more water, which will help to flush out antigens.
  • To achieve and maintain health, I recommend a good daily multivitamin, plus extra B-complex. [2-8]

One nice thing about food allergy is that milder reactions are often outgrown. Also, allergists are finally eliminating the need for bans on peanuts on board an airplane by desensitizing the reactions with administration of increasingly larger doses of peanuts in the office setting, while standing by with adrenalin if they move too fast. There had been a lot of enthusiasm for this program, but January 29, 2019, on Medscape, a real kill-joy article by Gary Stradmauer, M.D., about food desensitizing appeared. An oral peanut derived drug, AR101, was employed, but it only allowed tolerance for about two peanuts. Even this small, positive effect would only last by continually taking the drug. So now attention is turning back to the needle that the allergist relied on for so many years, for more promising desensitizing.

Vitamin C can quell just about any ordinary allergic reaction, including asthma and hay fever. When you are having an attack, the old “2,000 mg every two hours” for a day or two” plan can’t be beat. In my experience, it is bordering on miraculous.

I’m always going back to my simple philosophy: nutrients are safe and effective, so, with a little common sense, you have little to lose.

 

References

1, Crook WG (1980) Tracking Down Hidden Food Allergy. Professional Books. ISBN-13: 978-0933478053.

2. Saul AW (2005) Allergies. http://doctoryourself.com/allergies.html , http://doctoryourself.com/allergies_2.html

3. Downing D (2010) The Vitamin Cure for Allergies: How to Prevent and Treat Allergies Using Safe and Effective Natural Therapies. Basic Health Pub. ISBN-13: 978-1591202714

4. Davalos Bichara M, Goldman RD. (2009) Magnesium for treatment of asthma in children. Can Fam Physician. 55:887-889. http://www.cfp.ca/content/55/9/887.long

5. Daliparty VM, Manu MK, Mohapatra AK. (2018) Serum magnesium levels and its correlation with level of control in patients with asthma: A hospital-based, cross-sectional, prospective study. Lung India. 35:407-410. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30168460 .

6. Dean C (2017) Magnesium. http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v13n22.shtml

7. Case HS (2016) Magnesium Decreases Hyperactivity in ADHD Children. http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v12n20.shtml

8. Campbell RK (2014) Food Allergy, Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease. http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v10n04.shtml .

Nutritional Medicine is Orthomolecular Medicine

Orthomolecular medicine uses safe, effective nutritional therapy to fight illness. For more information: http://www.orthomolecular.org

Find a Doctor

To locate an orthomolecular physician near you: http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v06n09.shtml

The peer-reviewed Orthomolecular Medicine News Service is a non-profit and non-commercial informational resource.

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Ilyès Baghli, M.D. (Algeria)
Ian Brighthope, M.D. (Australia)
Prof. Gilbert Henri Crussol (Spain)
Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D. (USA)
Damien Downing, M.D. (United Kingdom)
Michael Ellis, M.D. (Australia)
Martin P. Gallagher, M.D., D.C. (USA)
Michael J. Gonzalez, N.M.D., D.Sc., Ph.D. (Puerto Rico)
William B. Grant, Ph.D. (USA)
Tonya S. Heyman, M.D. (USA)
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Ron Hunninghake, M.D. (USA)
Michael Janson, M.D. (USA)
Robert E. Jenkins, D.C. (USA)
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Jeffrey J. Kotulski, D.O. (USA)
Peter H. Lauda, M.D. (Austria)
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Stuart Lindsey, Pharm.D. (USA)
Victor A. Marcial-Vega, M.D. (Puerto Rico)
Charles C. Mary, Jr., M.D. (USA)
Mignonne Mary, M.D. (USA)
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Garry Vickar, MD (USA)
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Andrew W. Saul, Ph.D. (USA), Editor-In-Chief
Editor, Japanese Edition: Atsuo Yanagisawa, M.D., Ph.D. (Japan)
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Aging and Oxidative Stress

Oxidative Stress

Oxidation is a chemistry term which refers to a molecule gaining an oxygen atom or losing an electron. Inversely, reduction is when a molecule loses an oxygen atom or gains an electron. Examples of oxidation include an avocado turning brown after being exposed to air, a bumper forming rust or a cut becoming inflamed. All of these processes require oxygen to occur. Oxidation occurs in the form of a redox reaction where one atom/molecule is oxidized while the other is reduced. Every cell in our body uses oxygen to produce energy. Energy production occurs in an organelle in our cells called mitochondria. Mitochondria can be thought of as mini power plants and it is where the body produces most of its energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate or ATP. Ten percent of our body weight is mitochondria and we produce our body weight daily in ATP. Occasionally, during the metabolization of oxygen occurs in the mitochondria products called free radicals are produced.

Free Radicals and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)

Free radicals are atoms or molecules which have unpaired highly reactive electrons. Free radicals can interact with other atoms or molecules (such as DNA, lipids and proteins) in the cell and steal electrons from them. This results in aberrations, in the molecule whose electron was stolen, and can lead to cellular damage. Additionally, the now damaged molecule can react with another atom or molecule and this creates a chain reaction which can overwhelm the body’s natural defenses.

Another class of potentially harmful molecules are reactive oxygen species (ROS). Reactive oxygen species are molecules containing oxygen and include oxygen ions and peroxides. They are formed in the metabolism of oxygen and play important roles in normal cell functioning. However, during times of bodily stress ROS’s can dramatically increase which can overwhelm a cell’s defenses and damage the cell.

Damage to cellular DNA can cause the aberrant cell to divide more rapidly than a healthy cell and this is the start of a cancerous cell. It is for this reason that smoking can lead to lung cancer. Therefore, the more oxygen the body uses the more free radicals produced which leads to greater oxidation. In addition to oxygen utilization, free radicals can also be formed from exposure to X-Rays, cigarette smoking, air pollutants, heavy metals, ozone, some medications and chemicals. Keep in mind that oxidation is a natural process and in most circumstances helps the body. Normal cells produce a small amount of free radicals. For instance, internally generated sources of free radicals occur in mitochondria, peroxisomes, xanthine oxidase, phagocytosis, inflammation and during exercise1. Our immune system uses free radicals to destroy bacteria and viruses. The body is well equipped to handle these endogenous forms of free radicals by creating enzymes that reduce ROS, by utilizing antioxidants and by being able to repair the damage done by free radicals and ROS. In fact low to moderate levels of oxidation help modulate the immune system and enhance cellular processes.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are reducing agents which can donate an electron to free radicals preventing them from reacting with other molecules in the cell. However, when an antioxidant donates an electron it becomes oxidized; therefore, antioxidants must constantly be replenished. Additionally, under certain circumstances antioxidants may become oxidative in nature and increase the oxidative stress on the body. Our main source of antioxidants are found in fruits, vegetables and animal sources and include vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids, polyphenols, minerals (selenium), alpha lipoic acid, melatonin, CoQ10 and many others substances. Since different antioxidants work on different pathways in the body we need many different vitamins and minerals to act synergistically together to neutralize free radicals. This is why it is prudent to consume a wide variety of different foods. Antioxidants work in two different ways. The first way is that they can prevent oxidation from occurring by stabilizing ROS and free radicals. The second is that when a free radical starts a chain reaction the antioxidant can terminate the reaction mid-way through.

What is Oxidative Stress?

Oxidative stress can be thought of as the balance between the production of free radicals/ROS and the body’s ability to detoxify the free radicals/ROS or repair the damage done by them. Normally the body is equipped to handle these stressors and the total burden placed on the body is manageable. However, overexposure to cigarette smoke, UV radiation, other environmental toxins and even excessive amount of exercise can overwhelm the body causing reactive oxygen species to accumulate. The accumulation of ROS damages cells and causes mutations within the cells. Increased levels of oxidative stress have been linked to arthritis, diabetes, cancer, atherosclerosis, heart attacks, asthma, COPD, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s) and many other diseases1.

What Role Does Oxidation Play in Aging?

Did you know that oxidation is the cause of wrinkles and sagging skin? The oxidative stress theory of aging was first proposed by Denham Harman in the 1950’s. He conceived the idea that as time progresses the number of ROS in our body increases which negatively affects our overall level of oxidative stress. Invariably, the ROS which are produced in the mitochondria will bind to proteins, lipids and carbohydrates which are the building blocks of our bodies. These building blocks are damaged and destroyed and the body becomes less and less capable of repairing the damage done. Our skin sags because we lose collagen to oxidative stress and then are unable to replace the collagen. Our joints begin to ache because the connective tissue becomes oxidized and is destroyed and we cannot replace the connective tissue at the rate at which it is oxidized. Oxidation also weakens body systems which is why we are more likely to injure ourselves as we get older and why our chances of mortality increase from causes such as strokes, heart attacks and cancer. Furthermore, ROS can damage neurons in the brain which leads to neural degeneration and is one of the reasons why we begin to lose our memory as we age. As we can see, oxidation is implicated in many of the most common illnesses that affect humans.

How Can We Prevent Oxidation?

In the past when we ate a healthy diet and our environment was relatively free of pollutants, the body had everything it needed to counteract oxidative stress. Despite an increase in our lifespan, the rates of chronic disease in Western society have progressed at an even faster rate. Nowadays, the general population does not eat a nutrient dense diet containing ample antioxidants. Additionally, the amount of environmental pollutants are exponentially higher than they used to be. Not coincidentally the amount of chronic and degenerative diseases in the population has skyrocketed.

The first and most important step to preventing oxidative damage is getting a good night’s sleep. It is during sleep that our body repairs and regenerates tissue while also detoxifying ROS and free radicals. Second, eating a nutrient dense diet is vitally important so that the body contains a plethora of antioxidants and other detoxifying substances to counteract oxidative stress. Did you know that sugar is the most oxidative food we can eat and therefore a diet high in sugar will cause a great deal of oxidative stress on the body. Lastly, brief bouts of high intensity exercise has been shown to increase our resistance to stressors and needs to be included in a healthy lifestyle. Did you also know that the vitamin and mineral content of plants are lower than they were 100 years ago?2 Supplementation can mimic some of the vital components of plants that are lacking in today’s agriculture. It is recommended that you consult with your Naturopathic Doctor prior to supplementation. This is because there are a few things that people are doing wrong with supplementation and we want to make sure you avoid these pitfalls. Additionally, not all nutrition plans are for everyone, nor are all exercise plans; therefore, it is vital that you consult your Naturopathic Doctor who can create a treatment plan that is right for you. This treatment plan may include supplementation, botanical medicine, homeopathy, injection therapies or one of many other treatments offered at the Natural Terrain Naturopathic Clinic.

Hormesis

Not all stress is bad and in fact some stress is good and strengthens the body. Have you ever started running and could barely run 1km, but within a few short months you could run that multiple times over. This is hormesis at work. Hormesis is the concept that small doses of a stressor help prime the body to handle that stressor better in the future. This concept also applies to heat, toxins, lack of food and a broad range of other stressors. It has been found that by limiting food intake and fasting intermittently we can actually increase lifespan because multiple different survival mechanisms are activated (3). It is thought that the production of free radicals also primes the body and strengthens it. This in turn can lead to an increased lifespan. You may be thinking, “So it is true what doesn’t kill me makes me stronger!” Not quite. Short term, small doses of stressors are the key. When stressors last a long time they cause an accumulation of ROS in the body which overwhelm our natural defenses and in the end cause health problems.

If Oxygen Causes Oxidation, Why Are We Using Ozone To Treat Patients?

Ozone (O3) is a molecule containing three oxygen atoms as compared to the dioxygen (O2) that we normally breathe. The fact that ozone contains one more oxygen molecule means that it is highly reactive. This property makes ozone oxidative, but this is what also gives ozone its healing properties. As it happens, ozone is quite damaging to the respiratory system when inhaled (4) as well as to most tissues that are exposed to it in large amounts. However, when blood is mixed with ozone in a therapeutic dose the oxygenation of blood increases tenfold (4). This oxygenation of blood has many therapeutic benefits, but predominantly it has immunomodulatory effects. This means that for those individuals who have overactive immune systems: such as autoimmune, chronic and inflammatory diseases ozone will calm the immune system down.

Many illnesses (especially structural disorders) are caused by a lack of blood supply which results in lack of oxygen to tissues as well as allowing a build of a waste. This prevents an individual’s body from properly healing. Ozonation increases oxygenation of the blood and up regulates the immune system so that when it is injected into areas which previously had limited blood supply ozone stimulates a low grade immune response which repairs and regenerates tissues. Therefore, when given in a therapeutic dose ozone has a hormetic effect on the body which stimulates the body natural healing capabilities providing a multitude of benefits.

1. Lien Ai Pham-Huy, Hua He, and Chuong Pham-Huy. 2008. Free Radicals, Antioxidants in Disease and Health. Int J Biomed Sci. Jun; 4(2): 89–96.
2. Davis D. 2009. Declining Fruit and Vegetable Nutrient Composition: What Is the Evidence? HORTSCIENCE VOL. 44(1).
3. http://www.intermittentfaster.com/intermittent-fasting-science/
4. Sagai M, Bocci V. 2011. Mechanisms of Action Involved in Ozone Therapy: Is healing induced via a mild oxidative stress? Med Gas Res. 2011 Dec 20;1:29. doi: 10.1186/2045-9912-1-29.

Children’s Eczema

Children’s Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammation of the skin and occurs in up to 25% of children and some adults. The term eczema is used as a blanket term for numerous skin conditions, but is primarily used to describe dry, itchy, red, flaky skin. The acute form of eczema includes fluid filled blisters that may become scaly, form a crust or can result in thickening of the skin. The chronic form also includes redness, crusting, scaling and a thickening of the skin. The skin can become so dry that it often cracks and bleeds. This is known as the weeping stage of eczema. Individuals affected by eczema will notice that it occurs predominantly in parts of the body where flexing occurs, but it is not limited to these areas and can occur all over the body.

There is no single known cause of eczema and its origin is multifactorial; however, allergens are believed to play a huge role. Individuals who are hypersensitive to allergens and develop other diseases such as asthma, hay fever and pinkeye are more susceptible to developing eczema. There is a genetic component to eczema. Children whose mothers had asthma or eczema during pregnancy are twice as likely to develop eczema in their life. Some other factors that are known to trigger eczema include; stress, pollution, certain foods and chemical sensitivities. Liver toxicity also plays a role in eczema. The liver is the main organ of detoxification, if it is not working well, then the detoxification process is taken over by the skin and lungs. Both of which are not particularly good at detoxing and patients will then present with allergies, asthma and eczema.

The conventional approach to eczema is cortisone cream. It is an extremely potent steroid cream that is applied directly to areas affected by eczema. However, anything applied to the skin eventually finds its way into the bloodstream. The most common side effect is thinning of the skin. Overuse of steroid creams can damage your liver and kidneys. Additionally, cortisone can be damaging to your adrenal glands resulting in hormonal imbalances. The downfall of steroid creams is that it reduces inflammation by masking the symptoms of eczema and does not get to the root of the problem. So as soon as you stop using the cream your eczema will re-appear.

Naturopathic Doctors understand that inflamed skin is just a symptom of a deeper problem; therefore, treatment involves treating the root cause of your problem. To understand this, we must understand that eczema is caused by a hypersensitive immune system. A part of the immune system contains two types of T helper cells (TH); TH1 and TH2. TH1 cells actively kill viruses, bacteria, fungi, tumours and other invasive in organisms in your body. TH2 cells protect the body from allergens, chemicals and other things such as parasites. Those with a dominant TH2 immune response are more likely to develop asthma, hay fever, eczema. All infants are TH2 dominant while in the womb so that the mothers TH1 cells cannot reach the developing fetus. This carries into adolescence, but by adulthood TH1 cells should become dominant. However, this is not always the case and there are many hypotheses why this occurs.

There are many reasons for a hypersensitive TH2 response such as:

  • Food intolerances
  • Liver toxicity
  • Gut dysbiosis
  • Antibiotic use
  • Environmental toxins
  • Stress
  • Vaccinations (stimulate the TH2 response and inhibit TH1)

A child with a hypersensitive TH2 immune system has predictable symptoms that generally develop over time (1).

  • In infants, atopic eczema and food allergies are seen
  • In childhood asthma and hay fever commonly occur
  • During the teenage years, development of seasonal rhinitis and conjunctivitis can occur

The first step to treating eczema is determining what factors are causing the hypersensitivity reaction. Dr. Mason-Wood, ND may perform various lab exams to find what these are. Tests can include blood, urine, hair, stool and saliva testing, hormone and adrenal testing or various other tests. The most common test that Dr. Mason-Wood, ND recommends for patients with eczema is a Food Intolerance testing. This test checks to see if an individual is intolerant to certain foods. This intolerance is not life threatening, but does cause an immune response which may be a factor in eczema. Once the intolerant foods are discovered, removal from a patient’s diet helps reduce the symptoms of eczema. Further steps include addressing Leaky Gut Syndrome, treating gut dybiosis and then healing the gut with botanicals and supplements. Additionally, removing irritants such as soaps, detergents, scents and creams may be needed, as well as detoxifying toxins in the body. Finally, balancing the body’s TH2 dominance is important and ensures that eczema will not re-occur.

Since the development of eczema is multifactorial removing foods you are intolerant to may not be enough. Other factors may be involved and so other treatments may be necessary. Other common treatments for eczema include botanical medicine, environmental medicine, injection therapies, supplementation, lifestyle counselling, Traditional Chinese Medicine and homeopathy. Once Dr. Mason-Wood, ND has assessed the root cause of your eczema he will work with you to choose the correct treatment plan for you. To address your eczema, book an appointment with Dr. Mason-Wood, ND today by calling 587-521-3595.

1. Douglas JA, O’Hehir RE. Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of allergic disease: the basics
MJA 2006; 185:228-233
2. Adapted from http://www.ccnm.edu/health_concerns_rsnc/eczema

6 Myths of Osteoporosis

Over 1.5 million Canadians are diagnosed with osteoporosis. It is a major public health concern. Having osteoporosis puts Canadians at risk for fractures which can be disabling and life-threatening. There are a lot of misconceptions about this bone disease. In this article, we will bust 6 myths about osteoporosis.

1.    Osteoporosis is just thin bones

The main issue of osteoporosis is not that the bones are thin but that the bone’s self-repair mechanism is compromised. Nutrient deficiencies, lack of exercise and toxic chemicals and pollutants can all impair this self-repair mechanism.

2.   Osteoporosis is a normal part of ageing

While some bone loss is normal, osteoporosis is not. Bone mass typically peaks between age 30-35.  Around age 40, bone loss begins at a rate of 0.5% per year. Despite lower bone volume as you age, the bone should still be able to repair itself but osteoporosis is an abnormal pattern of bone loss.

3.   Osteoporosis is common all over the world

Like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer, osteoporosis is a degenerative disease of civilization (AKA lifestyle diseases). The highest rates of osteoporosis are seen in industrialized countries such as Canada and the US.

4.   Osteoporosis only affects women

Osteoporosis occurs in both men and women. 1 in 8 men and 1 in 4 women over the age of 50 are osteoporotic. There are several factors that make women more at risk. 25% of all surgeries are on the female reproductive tract. Women who have surgeries and are on bed rest have an increased risk of osteoporosis. Nutrient deficiencies also increase the risk of osteoporosis, with women more likely to diet and have eating disorders1.  Not having menses (amenorrhea or menopause) also puts women more at risk.

5.   Osteoporosis is a disease of the elderly

Osteoporosis is not just isolated to the elderly, it can also happen in younger adults (<50 years old). Younger adults who are anorexic, athletes, ballet dancers, or have a long history of corticosteroid use are more at risk for osteoporosis.

6.   Osteoporosis means something has gone wrong with the body

Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease. When the body is out of balance it attempts to correct it, but often this can mean sacrificing bones. The blood’s pH (or level of acidity) must be maintained for the body to operate. If the blood is too acidic, the body will try to lower it by taking basic elements, such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, out of the bones. This process over many years can lead to osteoporosis.

Conclusion

Osteoporosis is a common disease that many Canadians suffer with. It increases the risk for falls and hip fractures which can affect everyday quality of life. Luckily, Naturopathic Doctors can help patients manage their osteoporosis. Book an appointment today! 

References

1. Kashubeck-West S, Mintz LB, Weigold I. Separating the Effects of Gender and Weight-Loss Desire on Body Satisfaction and Disordered Eating Behavior. Sex Roles. 2005;53(7):505-518. doi:10.1007/s11199-005-7138-4

Cleansing Fast

Detoxification of the body is the most important factor to health.  The following is a simple program to help cleanse the major detoxification organs involved in eliminating toxins from the body. This program can be repeated once a month – Dr. Chris, ND and  Dr. Michael, ND do this at the start of each month for 3 days as a monthly reset.

Materials needed

  • 6-8 fresh lemons daily (depending on size)
  • 2-3 litres of distilled or filtered water daily
  • Small amount of raw honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • One bottle of Solu-Fibre
  • A herbal detoxification formula as prescribed by your naturopathic doctor

It is best to begin the program by eating only raw fruits and vegetables for two days prior to this cleanse, aim for 3 cups of colored vegetables, 3 cups of greens and 3 cups of sulphur rich vegetables (ie. asparagus, bean sprouts, bok choy, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, green beans, kale, garlic, mushrooms, onions, etc .)  This prepares the body and helps eliminate toxins.  As such the body does not become overwhelmed when you start the detoxification process.

Instructions

DAY 1  Mix 1 ½ cups of freshly squeezed lemon juice with 2 litres of distilled or filtered water. A little raw honey may be added for palatability (if desired).  Consume ½ your body weight in ounces of the combined lemon water, (ie. If you weigh 150 lbs consume a minimum of 2.3L).  Each morning and evening take (a) 1 tablespoon of Solu-Fibre in a 10 oz. glass of the lemon mixture, and (b) the herbal detoxification formula as directed by your naturopathic doctor.

DAY 2  Repeat lemon-distilled water mixture and Solu-Fibre.  Take herbal remedy as directed.

DAY 3  Repeat lemon-distilled water mixture and Solu-Fibre.  Take herbal remedy as directed.

This is the end of the concentrated detoxifying.  It is most important to reintroduce solid foods gradually for lasting benefits.

DAYS 4 & 5  Continue to drink water and add the juice of ½ lemon if desired.  Continue the Solu-Fibre and the herbal remedies.  Drink as much as desired of the following:  spring water, carrot juice, or other fruit and vegetable juices (except citrus), preferably freshly prepared with a juicer for maximum benefits.

DAYS 6 & 7  Add raw vegetables.  Maintain herbal remedy and Solu-Fibre . Consume juices as desired.

DAY 8  Add lightly steamed vegetables to allowable food.  Continue herbal remedy and Solu-Fibre twice daily.

DAY 9  Add raw unsalted nuts and/or seeds.  Reduce Solu-Fibre mixture to once per day.  Continue herbal remedy as directed.

DAY 10 & FORWARD  Gradually return to a sound, healthy diet.  Finish the herbal formula.  Adjust Solu-Fibre intake according to personal need.  Lower bowel gas and foul odoured stools are indications of increased need for dietary fiber.

Note: 1) it is important to drink the specified minimum amount of liquid based on your body weight daily.  2) Colon hydrotherapy during the cleansing fast is highly recommended for best results.  Discuss gut microbiome replenishment protocol for post colonic treatment.

You can find out more about detoxification and try our 3-day detox here.

5 Steps to Improve your Testosterone

Could it be my hormones?

5 Steps to Improve your Testosterone

Testosterone is a “masculinizing hormone”, meaning it contributes to classically male characteristics in the body. That being said, it is normally present in both men and women, only at different levels. Like all other hormones, there is an optimal amount of testosterone for your body, and when the levels fall below this point, there are telltale low-testosterone symptoms.

 Symptoms of Low Testosterone

The symptoms of low testosterone include:

    • Change in sleep patterns, with an increase in sleep disturbances
    • Increase in body fat and decrease in muscle mass, loss of strength
    • Hair loss
    • Reduced libido, sexual stamina
    • Erectile dysfunction or infertility
    • Decreased motivation, decreased energy
    • Depression
    • Worsening of sleep apnea
    • Worsening of congenital heart failure
    • Hot flushes or sweats
    • Loss of body hair

What Causes Low Testosterone

Testosterone peaks in men around age 20 and naturally begins to decline by 1% every year after age 30. But other factors also contribute to blocked production and falling levels, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease, other hormonal disorders, and infections. Another major culprit that is becoming more and more common is exposure to estrogen-mimicking compounds in food, water, and your environment. These hormone-disrupting pollutants increase estrogen, which reflexively causes testosterone to decrease.

How is Low Testosterone Diagnosed?

The normal range is 9–38 nmol/L (270–1070 ng/dL). The functional or optimal level for testosterone is above 19 nmol/L meaning if you are below this level, you may benefit from testosterone-boosting treatments. A blood sample must be collected in the morning, preferably before 10 AM, or within 3 hours of waking, and preferably in a fasting state (not having eaten). Testing should occur when the sleep-wake pattern is stable (e.g., not during shift changes or jetlag) as this can affect short-term testosterone levels.

Natural Ways to Increase Testosterone

There are many non-invasive and lower-risk ways to boost testosterone before turning to hormone therapy or trying anabolic steroids. Below are the best ways to increase testosterone levels naturally.

  1. Avoid exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals

As mentioned before, chemicals can disrupt the body’s normal hormonal balance. Avoid exposures by completely avoiding plastic near your food, not using BPA plastic water bottles or other products, eat organic as much as possible, and opt for non-GMO foods. Phytoestrogens (especially soy) should be taken in moderation. Finally, avoid hoppy IPA beers because of the phytoestrogen from hops in high concentration in IPAs. Sorry guys! Take our environmental quiz to see how you score and if you are in need of a customized detoxification program

  1. Body Composition

If you are overweight, losing weight can be very beneficial for testosterone levels. Strength training is advantageous but also using short, intense intervals of exercise, like HIIT training, can boost levels.

  1. Supplement to support testosterone-production pathways

Like other hormones, testosterone is produced from cholesterol using a number of cofactors and enzymes, including zinc, vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium, so the body must have enough of these elements to complete the pathway. It is also derived from DHEA, which is considered the “anti-aging” hormone – so checking this level is also important if your testosterone is low. Other helpful supplements/herbs include tribulus, stinging nettle root, ashwagandha, adaptogenic herbs, and Myomin.

  1. Reduce stress

When we are stressed, we produce cortisol which tends to lower testosterone, so it is important to get your stress under control by examining your commitments and eliminating what you can/setting boundaries, or building in regular stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing and stretching, especially after exercise, as well as meditation.  Getting enough sleep is a part of this because sleep deprivation directly increases the next day’s cortisol levels, and decreases hormone production.

  1. Nutrition

The most impactful diet changes you can make to support your testosterone levels are:

  • Limit or eliminate sugar from your diet
  • Eat healthy fats, such as mono-, and poly-unsaturated fats, as well as saturated fats from animal sources
  • Eat foods such as olives, olive oil, raw nuts such as almonds or pecans, grass-fed meats, coconuts and coconut oils, organic eggs, palm oil, butter made from grass-fed/organic milk, avocados, unheated organic nut oils
  • Increase intake of branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) from food like whey protein

Testosterone is an extremely important reproductive hormone that has major impacts on your daily physical and mental health. Testing is easy, and there are effective ways to boost levels to achieve your overall optimal health. Ask about testing your levels today – call 587-521-3595 or schedule an appointment with Dr. Mason-Wood, ND online.

Sources:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/bc-guidelines/testosterone-testing

https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw27307

http://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2012/07/27/increase-testosterone-levels.aspx  http://www.medicinenet.com/low_testosterone_low_t/article.htm#low_testosterone_low_t_definition

 

Environmental Quiz

Check each item that applies to you:

  • Do you drink pop, calorie free or sugary drinks?  This includes mixing them in with alcohol (ie rum and coke)
  • Do you drink anything out of a plastic bottle?
  • Do you use non-stick frying pans?
  • Do you drink Vitamin mineral or Gatorade water?
  • Do you use a microwave?
  • Do you use a cell phone or a computer for more than 3 hours a day?
  • Do you use Advil, Tylenol, Immodium or any over the counter medication more than 1x/ year?
  • Do you eat foods that have food coloring (ie Smarties, M&Ms, cheddar cheese, etc) ?
  • Do you consume canned goods (ie soup in a can)?
  • Do you use personal care products with phthalates or parabens?
  • Do you drink more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day?
  • Do you exercise less than 30 minutes per day, 4 days per week?
  • Do you regularly consume foods that are Genetically Modified?  These foods are: Corn, Soybeans, Canola, Cottonseed and Beet sugar.
  • Do you eat any of the following foods in the non-organic form:
1.     Strawberries 7. Nectarines
2.     Spinach 8. Apples
3.     Kale, Collard and Mustard 9. Bell & hot peppers
4.    Grapes 10. Cherries
5.    Peaches 11. Blueberries
6.    Pears 12. Green beans
  • Do you drink manufactured orange juice?
  • Do you suffer from any of the following: ongoing fatigue, headaches, pain, and constant colds and coughs?
  • Do you regularly experience digestive concerns such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome?
  • Have you been diagnosed with low thyroid function or a skin condition (ie eczema, psoriasis, acne)?
  • Do you use hand sanitizer or Colgate toothpaste on a regular basis?
  • Are you more than 15 lbs overweight?
  • Do you use perfume?

 

Score: _______

Results

Number of checks Category
Less than 5 You win top marks and qualify for the “Squeaky Clean” award  – Congrats!

 
Between 5 -12 You need to reduce your environmental toxin exposure and may need an integrated detoxification program. Dr. Mason-Wood, ND can provide an assessment to see if a detoxification is right for you and provide lifestyle counselling to help you minimize toxin exposure – call our clinic today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mason-Wood, ND at (587) 521-3595 or schedule an appointment online at https://naturalterrain.com/contact-us/.
Greater than 12 You need an integrated detoxification program – call our clinic today to schedule a critical care appointment with Dr. Mason-Wood, ND at (587) 521-3595 or schedule an appointment online at https://naturalterrain.com/contact-us/