tag:typepad.com,2003:weblog-1250480 %ISSUE_DATE%T09:25:32-07:00 Research, use and efficacy of drug-free products. TypePad tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56506 2013-06-01T12:00:32-07:00 2013-06-01T12:00:07-07:00

When the National Institutes of Health's AARP Diet and Health Study reported that men who took calcium supplements had a higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared those who didn't, it was the third large cohort in six months with alarming findings regarding calcium supplements. The Swedish mammography cohort said women who take calcium supplements have a higher risk of mortality and the Heidelberg cohort found calcium supplements increased the risk of CVD in both sexes.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN When the National Institutes of Health's AARP Diet and Health Study reported that men who took calcium supplements had a higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared those who didn't, it was the third large cohort in six months with alarming findings regarding calcium supplements. The Swedish mammography cohort said women who take calcium supplements have a higher risk of mortality and the Heidelberg cohort found calcium supplements increased the risk of CVD in both sexes. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56496 2013-05-15T12:00:32-07:00 2013-05-15T12:00:07-07:00

It's often been said that scientific studies can be used to support just about anything. But discoveries are never made one study at a time. Only when science is viewed as a process and the sum of these studies are added together can a solid conclusion be reached and used to support patients. When an individual ignores the larger body of research in favor of a single study with a particular finding, they bias their search for evidence and do a disservice to patients.

By Joseph Dever, PhD, DABT and Michael Kemp, PhD, RD It's often been said that scientific studies can be used to support just about anything. But discoveries are never made one study at a time. Only when science is viewed as a process and the sum of these studies are added together can a solid conclusion be reached and used to support patients. When an individual ignores the larger body of research in favor of a single study with a particular finding, they bias their search for evidence and do a disservice to patients. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56495 2013-05-15T12:00:32-07:00 2013-05-15T12:00:07-07:00

Coenzyme Q10 has gained enormous attention in recent years, and with good reason --it's the Energizer Bunny of the cellular world. This essential quinine molecule is found in the mitochondria of every single cell in the body, where it plays a key role in energy production. CoQ10 not only assists in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), but also scavenges free radicals. To carry out these critical tasks, mitochondrial CoQ10 continuously cycles from ubiquinone, its ATP production state, to ubiquinol, its reduced active state.

By Holly Lucille, ND, RN Coenzyme Q10 has gained enormous attention in recent years, and with good reason --it's the Energizer Bunny of the cellular world. This essential quinine molecule is found in the mitochondria of every single cell in the body, where it plays a key role in energy production. CoQ10 not only assists in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), but also scavenges free radicals. To carry out these critical tasks, mitochondrial CoQ10 continuously cycles from ubiquinone, its ATP production state, to ubiquinol, its reduced active state. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56465 2013-05-01T12:00:32-07:00 2013-05-01T12:00:07-07:00

There are many reasons why nutritional supplements are sometimes ineffective. In some cases, it is simply due to a bad product that does not meet the label claims or is produced with poor quality control. It can also be from exposure to temperature or moisture at any step from the manufacturer to the consumer. However, these are not the most common reasons why nutritional supplements fail to provide the desired results. In my practice, the five most common reasons supplements do not yield the desired effects are caused by how and why they are used.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN There are many reasons why nutritional supplements are sometimes ineffective. In some cases, it is simply due to a bad product that does not meet the label claims or is produced with poor quality control. It can also be from exposure to temperature or moisture at any step from the manufacturer to the consumer. However, these are not the most common reasons why nutritional supplements fail to provide the desired results. In my practice, the five most common reasons supplements do not yield the desired effects are caused by how and why they are used. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56349 2013-02-01T12:00:32-07:00 2013-02-01T12:00:07-07:00

"Your 6-year-old daughter may need a colostomy bag." Imagine being a parent facing this decision. What would you do? Aubrey spent the first few years of her life in and out of the hospital, facing two surgeries, several biopsies, misdiagnoses and an uncertain future. She was born with anal stenosis - a narrowing of the anal sphincter and opening that makes it difficult for stool contents to be eliminated. Unfortunately, this birth defect (which can be fixed with surgery) was missed.

By Van Merkle, DC, CCN, DCBCN, DABCI "Your 6-year-old daughter may need a colostomy bag." Imagine being a parent facing this decision. What would you do? Aubrey spent the first few years of her life in and out of the hospital, facing two surgeries, several biopsies, misdiagnoses and an uncertain future. She was born with anal stenosis - a narrowing of the anal sphincter and opening that makes it difficult for stool contents to be eliminated. Unfortunately, this birth defect (which can be fixed with surgery) was missed. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56348 2013-02-01T12:00:32-07:00 2013-02-01T12:00:07-07:00

The July 2012 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition featured a report analyzing data from 12 studies and suggesting higher blood and toenail levels of selenium are associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. Both blood levels (plasma levels) and toenail levels of selenium reflect oral intake of selenium. In the past, several human studies have shown that higher selenium levels may help defend against the development of prostate cancer.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS The July 2012 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition featured a report analyzing data from 12 studies and suggesting higher blood and toenail levels of selenium are associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. Both blood levels (plasma levels) and toenail levels of selenium reflect oral intake of selenium. In the past, several human studies have shown that higher selenium levels may help defend against the development of prostate cancer. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56196 2012-11-04T12:00:32-07:00 2012-11-04T12:00:07-07:00

Sales of organic foods increased from $1 billion in 1990 to $26.7 billion in 2010 in the U.S. alone, with most of the increase seen in the past few years. Since 2002, annual sales have increased by $18 billion. Recently, a team of researchers from Stanford University performed a review comparing organic and commercial foods. The review was prompted by a doctor whose patients kept asking her how much healthier organic foods were.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN Sales of organic foods increased from $1 billion in 1990 to $26.7 billion in 2010 in the U.S. alone, with most of the increase seen in the past few years. Since 2002, annual sales have increased by $18 billion. Recently, a team of researchers from Stanford University performed a review comparing organic and commercial foods. The review was prompted by a doctor whose patients kept asking her how much healthier organic foods were. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56176 2012-10-21T12:00:32-07:00 2012-10-21T12:00:07-07:00

Fatty liver disease, known medically as "steatohepatitis," involves inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver. It is often seen in alcoholics, but a form of the condition is also seen in non-alcoholic patients and labelled non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. NASH is also commonly seen in individuals with diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome (pre-diabetic state). Both forms of the condition can progress to cirrhosis.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS Fatty liver disease, known medically as "steatohepatitis," involves inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver. It is often seen in alcoholics, but a form of the condition is also seen in non-alcoholic patients and labelled non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. NASH is also commonly seen in individuals with diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome (pre-diabetic state). Both forms of the condition can progress to cirrhosis. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56079 2012-08-26T12:00:32-07:00 2012-08-26T12:00:07-07:00

In a small study of nine patients with failed back surgery outcomes caused by either disc degeneration or spondylolisthesis, the authors compared them with seven age- and diagnosis-matched controls who responded to conservative care, did not require surgery and were not in chronic pain. When the researchers tested vitamin D, they discovered the mean serum 25-hydroxy-calciferol levels in the nine failed-surgery patients was 17.9 ng/ml, compared to 40.6 ng/ml in the seven controls who responded to conservative care and were no longer in pain.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN In a small study of nine patients with failed back surgery outcomes caused by either disc degeneration or spondylolisthesis, the authors compared them with seven age- and diagnosis-matched controls who responded to conservative care, did not require surgery and were not in chronic pain. When the researchers tested vitamin D, they discovered the mean serum 25-hydroxy-calciferol levels in the nine failed-surgery patients was 17.9 ng/ml, compared to 40.6 ng/ml in the seven controls who responded to conservative care and were no longer in pain. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56064 2012-08-12T12:00:32-07:00 2012-08-12T12:00:07-07:00

Celiac disease, an inherited condition involving the small intestine, is triggered by gluten contained in cereal grains. The disease affects nearly 1 percent of the population. The pathophysiology of celiac disease is defined by the reaction of the gut's immune system to the presence of gluten, which results in damage to the inner lining of the small intestine.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS Celiac disease, an inherited condition involving the small intestine, is triggered by gluten contained in cereal grains. The disease affects nearly 1 percent of the population. The pathophysiology of celiac disease is defined by the reaction of the gut's immune system to the presence of gluten, which results in damage to the inner lining of the small intestine. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-56028 2012-07-29T12:00:32-07:00 2012-07-29T12:00:07-07:00

If you ask the average adult what vitamin C is used for, the most common reply has to do with the common cold. Over the years I have found that when a person does not have a cold, their vitamin C often sits on a shelf. Of course, vitamin C has many other functions, including the reduction of inflammation and help with wound healing, which the typical DC treats on a daily basis.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN If you ask the average adult what vitamin C is used for, the most common reply has to do with the common cold. Over the years I have found that when a person does not have a cold, their vitamin C often sits on a shelf. Of course, vitamin C has many other functions, including the reduction of inflammation and help with wound healing, which the typical DC treats on a daily basis. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55987 2012-07-15T12:00:32-07:00 2012-07-15T12:00:07-07:00

Over the years, experimental studies have shown that melatonin blocks the build-up of beta-amyloid plaque (a hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease). Human prospective studies have also shown that Alzheimer's patients tend to have lower melatonin levels than non-Alzheimer's patients. These preliminary studies led to the development of a number of recent clinical trials that have tested the ability of melatonin supplementation to reduce the development of Alzheimer's disease in high-risk patients diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is the stage of memory loss and functional brain capacity decline that is the forerunner to the development of full-blown Alzheimer's disease.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS Over the years, experimental studies have shown that melatonin blocks the build-up of beta-amyloid plaque (a hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease). Human prospective studies have also shown that Alzheimer's patients tend to have lower melatonin levels than non-Alzheimer's patients. These preliminary studies led to the development of a number of recent clinical trials that have tested the ability of melatonin supplementation to reduce the development of Alzheimer's disease in high-risk patients diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is the stage of memory loss and functional brain capacity decline that is the forerunner to the development of full-blown Alzheimer's disease. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55927 2012-06-03T12:00:32-07:00 2012-06-03T12:00:07-07:00

Piceatannol is a metabolite of the powerful phytochemical resveratrol, which is a polyphenolic compound found in grape skins, bilberries, blueberries, cranberries and peanuts. Resveratrol has been studied for its effects on longevity, heart disease and cancer by its in-vitro ability to increase vasodilation and reduce platelet aggregation, oxidation and pro-inflammatory enzyme activity. The compound has increased the lifespan of yeast, worms and fruit flies.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN Piceatannol is a metabolite of the powerful phytochemical resveratrol, which is a polyphenolic compound found in grape skins, bilberries, blueberries, cranberries and peanuts. Resveratrol has been studied for its effects on longevity, heart disease and cancer by its in-vitro ability to increase vasodilation and reduce platelet aggregation, oxidation and pro-inflammatory enzyme activity. The compound has increased the lifespan of yeast, worms and fruit flies. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55922 2012-05-20T12:00:32-07:00 2012-05-20T12:00:07-07:00

Studies conducted over the past two decades have shown that supplementation with creatine increases strength, explosive power, speed, endurance and lean mass gains in athletes of all ages. Creatine supplementation has also been shown to preserve strength and lean mass in aging persons, helping to keep them more functional. Other medical uses for creatine supplementation include improving strength and functionality in patients with multiple sclerosis, other neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic heart failure. Creatine supplementation has also been shown to minimize atrophy of immobilized limbs, as would occur when a limb is put in a cast to heal a bone fracture.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS Studies conducted over the past two decades have shown that supplementation with creatine increases strength, explosive power, speed, endurance and lean mass gains in athletes of all ages. Creatine supplementation has also been shown to preserve strength and lean mass in aging persons, helping to keep them more functional. Other medical uses for creatine supplementation include improving strength and functionality in patients with multiple sclerosis, other neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic heart failure. Creatine supplementation has also been shown to minimize atrophy of immobilized limbs, as would occur when a limb is put in a cast to heal a bone fracture. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55920 2012-05-20T12:00:32-07:00 2012-05-20T12:00:07-07:00

The average chiropractor with a typical injury-based practice who does not practice nutrition, sell supplements* or consider nutrition a strong point will often say little to their patients regarding nutrition. This is not to imply these doctors don't want to help their patients nutritionally, because they do. They just don't know how to raise the topic in an organized manner that is comfortable for them to present and easy for their patients to understand. If you are one of these doctors, these quick, easy, low-tech tips may solve your problem.

By G. Douglas Andersen, DC, DACBSP, CCN The average chiropractor with a typical injury-based practice who does not practice nutrition, sell supplements* or consider nutrition a strong point will often say little to their patients regarding nutrition. This is not to imply these doctors don't want to help their patients nutritionally, because they do. They just don't know how to raise the topic in an organized manner that is comfortable for them to present and easy for their patients to understand. If you are one of these doctors, these quick, easy, low-tech tips may solve your problem. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55837 2012-04-09T12:00:32-07:00 2012-04-09T12:00:07-07:00

The Oxford Project to Investigate Memory and Ageing (OPTIMA) published the results of a key aspect of their study in the online journal Public Library of Science ONE in 2010.1 In this arm of the study, they investigated the effect of B-vitamin supplementation on various parameters of brain aging and associated cognitive function. The study group consisted of 168 individuals over the age of 70 with mild cognitive impairment.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS The Oxford Project to Investigate Memory and Ageing (OPTIMA) published the results of a key aspect of their study in the online journal Public Library of Science ONE in 2010.1 In this arm of the study, they investigated the effect of B-vitamin supplementation on various parameters of brain aging and associated cognitive function. The study group consisted of 168 individuals over the age of 70 with mild cognitive impairment. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55722 2012-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2012-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

In an article scheduled to appear in the Feb. 26 issue of DC, I provide the raw data on cardiovascular protection with statin use in the JUPITER trial. While it was publicized that heart attacks were reduced by 50 percent, the raw data demonstrates only a 1 percent reduction if everyday math is applied. The subjects in JUPITER were also described as being "thin," even though the average BMI was 28.

By David Seaman, DC, MS, DABCN In an article scheduled to appear in the Feb. 26 issue of DC, I provide the raw data on cardiovascular protection with statin use in the JUPITER trial. While it was publicized that heart attacks were reduced by 50 percent, the raw data demonstrates only a 1 percent reduction if everyday math is applied. The subjects in JUPITER were also described as being "thin," even though the average BMI was 28. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55698 2012-01-01T12:00:32-07:00 2012-01-01T12:00:07-07:00

In the course of daily practice, many young and even older athletes ask about the value of certain supplements in regards to enhancing athletic performance, muscle and strength gains, explosive power, etc. Many supplements are more hype than science, as we all know; however, several supplements have impressive research to support their use as ergogenic aids. Sports supplements such as whey protein powder, sodium bicarbonate (or sodium citrate), creatine, L-glutamine and ornithine and arginine top the list of legitimate supplements for athletes to use in this regard.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS In the course of daily practice, many young and even older athletes ask about the value of certain supplements in regards to enhancing athletic performance, muscle and strength gains, explosive power, etc. Many supplements are more hype than science, as we all know; however, several supplements have impressive research to support their use as ergogenic aids. Sports supplements such as whey protein powder, sodium bicarbonate (or sodium citrate), creatine, L-glutamine and ornithine and arginine top the list of legitimate supplements for athletes to use in this regard. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55648 2011-12-02T12:00:32-07:00 2011-12-02T12:00:07-07:00

Think back - when was the last time you had a headache? Stomach ache? Skin or rash outbreak? Felt depressed or anxious? How about itchy, watery eyes from all the seasonal allergies? Oftentimes it's easy to pinpoint patients with life-threatening or debilitating diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's or Alzheimer's and offer them additional help. However, it's important to remember those who are just showing signs of suboptimal health. The largest part of my practice is made up of patients who suffer from the symptoms listed above. They come in seeking help for depression, chronic fatigue and allergies. And it's important to advertise that you can help!

By Van Merkle, DC, CCN, DCBCN, DABCI Think back - when was the last time you had a headache? Stomach ache? Skin or rash outbreak? Felt depressed or anxious? How about itchy, watery eyes from all the seasonal allergies? Oftentimes it's easy to pinpoint patients with life-threatening or debilitating diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's or Alzheimer's and offer them additional help. However, it's important to remember those who are just showing signs of suboptimal health. The largest part of my practice is made up of patients who suffer from the symptoms listed above. They come in seeking help for depression, chronic fatigue and allergies. And it's important to advertise that you can help! tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55643 2011-12-02T12:00:32-07:00 2011-12-02T12:00:07-07:00

According to an important study appearing in a recent issue of the European Journal of Nutrition, individuals who were taking antioxidant supplements at the start of the 11-year study period had a 48 percent reduction in the risk of cancer mortality. In addition, the risk of dying from all causes (all-cause mortality) was 42 percent lower among antioxidant supplement users. Of interest is the fact that taking only a basic multiple vitamin and mineral supplement (i.e., one not enriched with meaningful doses of antioxidants) did not confer any protection against cancer or all-cause mortality. These findings suggest that antioxidant supplements provide an important defense against cancer and death from other causes.

By James P. Meschino, DC, MS According to an important study appearing in a recent issue of the European Journal of Nutrition, individuals who were taking antioxidant supplements at the start of the 11-year study period had a 48 percent reduction in the risk of cancer mortality. In addition, the risk of dying from all causes (all-cause mortality) was 42 percent lower among antioxidant supplement users. Of interest is the fact that taking only a basic multiple vitamin and mineral supplement (i.e., one not enriched with meaningful doses of antioxidants) did not confer any protection against cancer or all-cause mortality. These findings suggest that antioxidant supplements provide an important defense against cancer and death from other causes. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55628 2011-11-18T12:00:32-07:00 2011-11-18T12:00:07-07:00

According the American Heart Association, 76.4 million or approximately 33.5 percent of U.S. adults have high blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined by multiple readings of 140/90 mmHg, whereas normal blood pressure is defined as less then 120/80 mmHg. The range of 120-139 / 80-89 mmHg is defined as "prehypertension." As blood pressure is dynamic, a single high reading does not constitute a diagnosis and or need for management of hypertension; however, when hypertension is diagnosed, antihypertensive drugs are often prescribed.

By Todd Mexico, DC and Brandon Blood, DC According the American Heart Association, 76.4 million or approximately 33.5 percent of U.S. adults have high blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined by multiple readings of 140/90 mmHg, whereas normal blood pressure is defined as less then 120/80 mmHg. The range of 120-139 / 80-89 mmHg is defined as "prehypertension." As blood pressure is dynamic, a single high reading does not constitute a diagnosis and or need for management of hypertension; however, when hypertension is diagnosed, antihypertensive drugs are often prescribed. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55618 2011-11-04T12:00:32-07:00 2011-11-04T12:00:07-07:00

Minerals are essential micronutrients required in small amounts for the body to function properly. Untreated mineral deficiencies can cause serious health problems including endocrine (hormone) imbalances, osteoporosis and anemia. Different minerals play a primary role at different stages of life.

By Isaac Eliaz, MD, LAc, MS Minerals are essential micronutrients required in small amounts for the body to function properly. Untreated mineral deficiencies can cause serious health problems including endocrine (hormone) imbalances, osteoporosis and anemia. Different minerals play a primary role at different stages of life.