Archive for 2008
Whats all the Fuss about Enzymes?
Monday, December 22nd, 2008
Q : I’ve heard digestives enzymes are great to take over the party season. But what do they do and where can you get them?
A : Digestive Enzymes assist the body in the chemical breakdown of food. The human body makes approximately 22 different enzymes. Different enzymes with different functions are produced in particular areas of the digestive tract from the mouth, to the stomach to the small intestine.
When our body does not produce enough enzymes ‘incomplete digestion’ can occur. This can contribute to many ailments including flatulence, bloating, belching, food allergies, nausea, bad breath, bowel problems and stomach disorders.
Our bodies make the digestive enzymes and substances:
The Mouth is the first stage of the digestive process. It is where the enzyme amylase is produced and breaks starch (carbohydrates) into smaller sugars.
The stomach digests protein and aids mineral absorption. Gastric acid (hydrochloric acid) along with pepsin break protein down into amino acids. A deficiency can lead to malabsorption and symptoms such as bloating, belching, flatulence, nausea, a sense of fullness immediately after meals, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation, food allergies, anaemia (Folic acid, vitamin B12 and iron will not be absorbed if there is too little acid), undigested food in stool, chronic intestinal infections, abnormal flora and weak, peeling and cracked fingernails.
The small intestine receives secretions from the pancreas, liver and gallbladder. This is important for the absorption of minerals, vitamins, protein and carbohydrates.
Rushing your meals or over-indulgence during the Festive season can place a considerable load on our digestive systems, so supplementing with digestive enzymes can help reduce this burden !
However, you must NEVER take digestive enzymes that contain hydrochloric acid and pepsin if you suffer from stomach ulcers, helicobacter pylori stomach infection or suffer from too much stomach acid.
It is rather difficult to determine one’s stomach acid levels without invasive procedures but a golden rule is STOP if you feel heartburn or gastric reflux after taking digestive enzymes. Another substitute is to take plant based enzymes (although weaker) Bromelain and Papain extract naturally assist the body’s digestive processes.
Check your local healthstore out for your Festive supply of enzymes, click here to see ICIM Medics supply or for further information on digestion contact the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on 045 844 819
Are Dairy Foods Bad for Asthmatics?
Thursday, December 18th, 2008
Q : I’ve asthma and have been advised to give dairy a miss. Can you explain why it may impact on my condition?
A : According to both Eastern and Western diagnostic measures, asthma involves disharmony in one or more organ systems:
1) the digestive centre (spleen-pancreas-stomach, and intestines)
2) the kidney-adrenals and liver/gall bladder, and/or
3) the heart and lungs. Most often all of these systems malfunction, with one of them most imbalanced.
These organ imbalances are corrected by following specific guidelines for treating the major types of asthma.
The major types of asthma include:
1) Cold-type asthma
2) Heat-type asthma
3)Mucus-type asthma
4) Deficiency-type asthma
In the West the mucus-type asthma is the most prevalent. Some mucus forming foods include most diary, meats, fish, poultry, eggs, most grains and legumes. According to Chinese medicine milk can be hard to digest by those who have mucus problems or weak digestion. Many asthma sufferers tend to benefit from eliminating dairy from their diets.
Milk has had a bad reputation among many Western heath advisors because most people already have an overabundance of mucus and are overweight as a result of their excessive consumption of meat, sugar, fat and dairy. Furthermore, having lived all their lives on these highly mucus producing foods, many have developed digestive weakness and are consequently allergic to dairy. Intolerant in some allergies is an inability to digest milk sugar (lactose). ‘Lactose intolerance’ is quite prevalent. When there are allergies or intolerances to dairy, the obvious remedy is to avoid these products.
A substitute to dairy for you would be to drink goat’s milk.
“One of the most vital issues to consider about milk is its quality. Modern animal milk generally have 400% more pesticides than an equivalent sample of grains or vegetables. In addition to pesticides that animals ingest on sprayed plants and feed, livestock raised for meat, eggs, or dairy frequently receive rations of hormones to stimulate growth and production, along with antibiotics to protect against disease. After their milk is tested, many mothers are told by doctors that they must eat fewer animal products in order for their milk to fall to safe levels of heavy metals, steroids, pesticides and antibiotics. Ref: Hergenrather, J. et al. Pollutants in breast milk of vegetarians. New England Journal of Medicine 304(13):p792, Mar 26,1981.”
For further information on asthma or dietary advice please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or tel. 045 844819
Is there a Natural Remedy for Quesy Tummies?
Monday, December 15th, 2008
Q : Is there a Natural Remedy for Quesy Tummies?
A : Motilium is frequently prescribed for acute bouts of nausea, vomiting or dyspepsia. You probably suffer from dyspepsia which is generally known as heartburn and indigestion but includes symptoms such as abdominal bloating or pain, belching, or flatulence.
Nux vomica is a homoeopathic remedy often prescribed for dyspepsia. The important thing is to match your symptoms with the symptoms of the remedy. Nux vomica is indicated where the patient experiences flatulence and heartburn with sour bitter belchings usually resulting from an over-indulgence. Usually ill effects from coffee, tobacco, alcohol or highly spiced or seasoned foods. The patient tends also to be irritable and can experience nausea, they can feel like vomiting but cannot. They can also experience bloating or fullness of the abdomen an hour or two after eating, like a stone weight. They also tend to feel sleepy after dinner.
If the symptoms above match what you experience then this remedy can be taken in a 6c potency three times a day. Generally, you stop with improvement and repeat the remedy again when needed.
Other homoeopathic remedies that can prove helpful in a 6C three times daily include: Carbo Veg for bloating, belching & heartburn with bad taste and breath; Calc carb for frequent sour loud belchings, heartburn and sour vomiting with a hard bloated abdomen; Lycopodium for belching, bloating and noisy flatulence.
Herbs that help sooth the digestive tract include Licorice root, Papaya, Goldenseal, Aloe vera, and Slippery elm. Herbal teas are very effective such as fennel, ginger, chamomile and peppermint.
Generally speaking dyspepsia can be caused by poor diet, rushed meals, stress, drug side-effects and lack of exercise. Try to identify your trigger, also recognise and remove any foods that commonly cause problems. I generally conduct food allergy testing at ICIM where persisting problems exist and it is also important to rule out any serious conditions.
For further information on Gastric related problems and testing contact the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on 045 844 819 or e-mail info@icim.ie
Eye Sensations
Thursday, December 11th, 2008
Q : I’ve been told I have an allergy to beer and wine - would this explain why the morning after i drink one of my eyes feels really sore and red, like i have an eyelash trapped behind it?
A : Allergies can trigger problems such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) which includes soreness. Your known allergies to beer and wine may account for the redness and soreness experienced but the sensation of a foreign body in the eye usually follows where there has been dryness of the eyes.
Dry eye syndrome is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture in the eye. Its consequences range from subtle but constant irritation to ocular inflammation of the front tissues of the eye.
Usually this sensation originates from the cornea, which is the clear part of the eye through which we see. If this lining is breached, the sensation that something is in the eye results, whether or not anything is actually there.
Any condition which can cause a scratch or lead to dryness on the cornea can lead to this symptom.
The dietary components that can contribute to dry eyes include alcohol and caffeine consumpion. Increasing your water intake and taking omega-3 fatty acids found in Salmon, Sardine, Herring, or Cod liver oil capsules can help improve your tear film and may reduce your risk for dry eyes.
If this problem persists a visit to your ophthalmologist would be recommended as there can be many underlying causes.
For further information on eye related problems contact the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on 045 844 819 or e-mail info@icim.ie
Can Any Alternative Remedy Help Conquer Fears?
Monday, December 1st, 2008
Q : I was in a car crash recently and am now frightened of driving and am even sleep-walking. Is there anything I can take to help?
A : In this case the condition you are suffering from is known as a phobia. Homoeopathic remedies that help with shock and / or fright induced phobias, such as yours generally include: Opium 200C which is good for sleeping difficulties, reoccurring dreams and thoughts of the event and also sleep walking.
Aconite 200C is good if you find you are suffering from restlessness both mentally and physically and are having anxious dreams, it’s also used to help stop sleep-walking.
Arnica 200C is the typical remedy to think of for any type of trauma, shock or fight on a physical or emotional level. The potencies of all of the above would need to be administered by your homeopath, so do seek professional advice.
Additional Support:
• High potency multi-vitamin-mineral. B-Complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Flaxseed Oil, 5-HTP.
• Panax Ginseng (Korean ginseng): helps one cope during stressful periods in one’s life.
• Valerian root: helps to regulate the sleeping pattern.
• Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Worth): improves many symptoms; depression, anxiety, apathy, sleep disturbances etc. But must be prescribed by your herbalist.
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Also you may want to consider counselling or hypnotherapy if your symptoms persist: Breathing techniques& relaxation such as Yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi or meditation could also help you in this situation.
For further information on shock or fright please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or tel. 045-844819
Every year hay fever seems to ruin my summer
Monday, November 24th, 2008
Q : Every year hay fever seems to ruin my summer. What do you recommend to minimise the symptoms?
A : Hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is characterised by itchy nose, throat and palate, congestion and/or runny discharge from the nasal passages, itching or stinging eyes. Those who suffer from hay fever symptoms throughout the year are said to have perennial rhinitis. Animal hair, dust, feathers, fungus spores, moulds and/or some other environmental agent may trigger the symptoms. In individuals where food allergies and/or dermatitis accompany symptoms of hay fever we can suspect other factors that may be stressing the immune system allowing these symptoms to manifest:
• Food allergy and/or Food Intolerance
• Hidden ingredients in processed foods; food additives; medicinal drugs (e.g. penicillin) added to foods; environmental pollution; early weaning and solid foods given to infants; genetic manipulation of food components which cross-react with normal tissues.
• Impaired digestion
• Leaky gut syndrome
• Yeast Infections
Recommendations
• Rotation diet: prevents new allergies, gives immune system rest, and intestines a chance to heal; infrequent consumption of tolerated foods not likely to induce new sensitivities or worsen old ones.
• Rebalance bowel flora : probiotics and/or acidophilus, treat any underlying yeast infections with Goldenseal.
• Healing damaged gut: eliminate all factors injuring mucosa; re-establish bowel flora, remove intestinal toxins; improve digestion; decrease inflammation.
• Decrease inflammatory gut reaction: quercetin, vitamin C and fish oils are helpful.
• Stimulating regeneration of gut: glutamine stimulates regeneration.
• Re-establishing normal digestion: digestive enzymes.
• Immune support: Echinacea, Astragalus, Goldenseal are helpful. Vitamin A, B, C, and Zinc
• Quercetin & Bromelain: slows the realease of histamine into the blood stream
• Homoeopathic remedies: Grasses & Pollens 30C, Wyethia 6C, Euphrasia 6C, Galphimia Glauca 6X, Allium Cepa 6C are all very helpful. Consult your homoeopath.
For further information about Allergies, please visit ICIM Medics Allergy information page.
Check out Medical Thermography to see how bad your hay fever is. For further information on Hay fever please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or tel. 045 844819
I Suffer From Restless Leg Syndrome
Monday, November 17th, 2008Q : I suffer from restless leg syndrome, is there anything I can do, or take, to help?
A : Restless legs syndrome is a condition that is characterised by a crawling, itching and sometimes painful sensation in the legs and thighs, which is relieved by moving the legs and thighs either by shaking or walking.
Underlying contributing factors include:
• Stimulants: caffeine, nicotine and alcohol
• Drug withdrawal
• Hereditary factors
• Deficiencies in iron, folic acid and vitamin B-Complex are frequently linked
• Digestive problems leading to malabsorption
• Anxiety and stress
Recommendations:
• Investigate through blood and hair analysis any mineral and vitamin deficiency and correct this through supplementation.
• Regular exercise, preferably in the evening, may reduce excessive stress chemical production at night
• Practice a meditation technique or Medical Qi Gong, Yoga or Tai Chi
• Consider doing a detox
• Herbally Valerian root possess excellent muscular relaxing properties when taken before bedtime.
• Homoeopathic remedies that may assist include Rhus Tox 6C, Causticum 30C, Tarantula Hispanica 6C, Zinc Mur 3C. Please refer to your homeopath for assistance.
For Further information on restless legs syndrome please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on http://www.icim.ie/ or tel 045-844819.
Why My Face Gets Red So Easily?
Monday, November 17th, 2008Q : My face tends to get very red, especially when i am stressed or after drinking. I’ve had my blood pressure checked and it’s fine. Is there anything else it could be?
A : Flushing of the face can be caused by a condition called Acne Rosacea, often experienced in adults between the ages of 30 and 50, but more severe in men. It is a chronic skin disorder where the nose and cheeks are abnormally red and flushing is very commonly experienced and may be covered with pimples similar to acne.
Many factors suspected include alcohol abuse, stress or hormonal imbalances, vasomotor neurosis, local infection, B-vitamin deficiencies and digestive disorders.
The causes to this condition are unknown, however, underlying problems which may contribute include:
• Low production of stomach acid: stress, worry and depression reduce gastric acidity.
• Food allergy: reflex flushing by vasodilator substances due to food allergies.
• B-vitamins deficiency.
Diet: avoid coffee, alcohol, hot beverages, spicy foods, and any other food/drink causing flushes; eliminate refined and/or concentrated sugars, transfatty acids (milk products, margarine, shortening, synthetically hydrogenated vegetable oils, fried foods); avoid foods high in iodized salt.
Homoeopathic remedies that may assist this condition include sulphur iod 3C (where acne is quite pronounced, and itching present, arsen brom 3C where internal heat is noted).
Acne Rosacea would need a definite diagnosis from a medical professional and must be distinguished from dermatitis, perioral and the facial rash of systemic lupis erythematosus.
For further information on Acne Rosacea please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or Tel: 045-844819
What Alternative Can Help For Bleeding Gums?
Monday, November 17th, 2008Q : I’m on medication for heart problems, and as a side effect my gums bleed badly. What can I take that could help?
A : Gingivitis is a condition which develops at the early stage of periodontal disease, where pockets of bacteria accumulate and produce more plaque, separating the gums from the teeth. Bacterial growth causes the gums to become red, soft and shiny. Therapeutic considerations for general gingivitis sufferers include assistance in the following areas.
• Hygiene: Biannual visits to your dentist for a full exam and removal of plaque and calculus; Brush after meals with sanguinaria toothpaste and floss daily.
• Diet: High in dietary fibre – protective via increased salivary secretion; Eliminate sugar from your diet.
• Cigarettes: Introduce a smoking cessation programme.
• Vitamin C (improves the integrity of the gums)
• Vitamin E, selenium (boosts anti-oxidant status)
• Vitamin A, beta-carotenes, zinc (decreases the healing time).
• Folic acid (reduces inflammation)
• Quercetin (rich in flavonoids which also helps reduce inflammation)
• Homoeopathic remedies that may assist include Merc Cor 6C where the gums are spongy, swollen and purple in colour. If you have increased saliva production and loose teeth with a salty or bitter taste, try Kreosotum 3C. if your symptoms are worse after cold drinks, water or air, try Silica 6C or Phosphorous 13C if you’ve a tendency for boils and abscesses.
• Botanical medicines that possess anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties include Sanguinaria Canadensis (bloodroot) when used as a toothpaste, and Centalla asiatica (gotu kola) which possesses gum healing properties.
For further information on Gingivitis please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or tel 00353-045-844819
What Alternatives Can Speed Up Weight Loss?
Friday, November 14th, 2008Q : I’m quite overweight and I want to get in shape for the summer. Are there any supplements I can take to speed things up a bit?
A : Being overweight is generally defined as exceeding the recommended weight for one’s height and build.
Tips for weight loss:
• Diet: a balance between protein (20-25%), carbohydrate (60-70%) and fats (10-15%).
• Fibre: binds fats and cholesterol and excretes them
• Exercise: 20-30 min of aerobic exercise, three times a week.
• Cut down on alcohol and other liver stressing drugs.
• Television: reduces the metabolic rate to that of a trance-like state! Do not eat in front of the television. Positive lifestyle improvements together with a balanced diet and regular exercise are needed to become healthy long-term.
Some suggestions:
• Supplements: chromium picolinate, hydroxycitrate, coenzyme Q10, Fibre such as psyllium husks, ground flax seeds.
• Botanical medicines: Ephedra sinica, Garcinia, Wild angelica, Mate, Dandelion, Aloe Vera and Astragalus may be of assistance.
• Homoeopathic remedies such as Calc Carb 30C may help; however, constitutional prescribing by your homoeopath would be suggested to assist the underlying problems e.g. hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances, water retention etc. Weight gain would need to be looked at carefully by a medical professional and must be distinguished from diabetes, under-active thyroid, and kidney and heart disorder etc.
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For further information on Obesity please visit the Irish Centre of Integrated Medicine on www.icim.ie or tel. 045-844819
