When you're Hot your Hot March 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter March 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

When your hot your hot!!!

Cold and Flu season has certainly been with us this winter. The CDC just released a study stating that this particular flu vaccine has not been as effective as previous years. Many have suffered the ravages of the cold and flu with fever being one of the major symptoms. So what do you do, reach for the Tylenol or aspirin, or ibuprofen and break that nasty fever, right?

We have been preaching for years that fever is your friend. Here are some studies to back that up.

In a randomized controlled trial “volunteers” where given intranasal rhinovirus type2. They were then given aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or placebo. Those given the antipyretics had longer viral shedding (were contagious longer), had worse turbinate swelling, and nasal obstruction. Two other recent studies with rhinovirus had similar results.

Another study with influenza A showed that those given antipyretics where sick an average 3.5 days longer than those that did not.

We are not saying that you don’t treat the fever if it becomes inappropriate. The definition of inappropriate needs to be set between you and your medical provider.

We are also not saying do nothing. Keep the body hydrated and electrolyted. Calcium and magnesium will help keep the fever modulated (but not turned off), as well as help with some of the body aches. Homeopathic cold and flu can help shorten the course of the illness.

So when it’s cold outside enjoy the HEAT!!

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Dancing February 2008 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter February 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Remember to Dance!!!

“ Dancing with the Stars” has brought back the popularity of ballroom dancing. But did you know that dancing is also good for your cardiovascular system and can reduce the risk of various forms of dementia including Alzheimer’s, vascular and mixed types!

The June 2003 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated in a landmark study report that dancing reduced all forms of dementia.

Romualdo Belardinelli, M.D., director of cardiac rehabilitation at Lancisi Heart Institute in Ancona, Italy presented in Chicago a study of 110 cardiac patients. 44 subjects participated in waltz training, 3 times/week for 8 weeks. 44 subjects performed traditional treadmill and cycle exercises and 22 served as controls.

Results revealed that both the waltzers and standard cardiac exercisers showed improvement in cardiopulmonary function. However, the waltz group scored better in quality of life and functional measures as assessed by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire. The waltz group reported more improvement in sleep, mood, the ability to perform hobbies, housework and sex. Also, no one had to withdraw from the waltz program!

So dance your way to a healthy heart and memory! And, you are invited to join us for our next dance class of the TANGO to begin Fridays in February. Contact the Freeport Park District to register.

Sincerely

Drs. Julie and Glenn Smith

Complementary Medicine

Nutrients for Surgery January 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter January 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Doc, What Nutrients do I stop before surgery, and what do I take to promote healing?

We hear that question all the time. So I thought we should review what we recommend as a general rule. Obviously everyone is different and if you are taking certain nutrients that you aren’t sure of, talk it over with a health care provider. Also if there are complications this list can change and grow substantially. So much for the disclaimers!!!

What to stop before surgery.

Let me give you the list the American Medical Association publishes and their reasons.

Echinacea: immune suppression (could interfere with wound healing), liver inflammation in combination with certain drugs

Ephedra: (ma huang) heartbeat irregularities, blood pressure

Feverfew: bleeding

Garlic: bleeding

Ginkgo Biloba: bleeding

Ginseng: bleeding, low blood sugar

Goldenseal: high blood pressure and swelling

Kava: increase anti-seizure medications and/or anesthesia effects

Licorice: high blood pressure; swelling; electrolyte imbalances

Saw Palmetto: interact with hormone therapies

St. John’s Wort: prolong anesthesia effects

Valerian: increase anti-seizure medication effects or prolong anesthesia effects

A few comments: Licorice in the therapeutic doses found in most supplements has been shown to be perfectly safe. (VERY LARGE Doses have been a problem). There is no good clinical evidence to back up the claim against echinacea , as a matter of fact the reverse is true.( It helps immune system function). Ginseng’s blood sugar lowering effects have been greatly overplayed, as most literature points out it will help normalize blood sugar. So if you are extremely high and on meds it may bring it down to the point that the meds need to be reduced.

I would add to the list of herbs to stop 2 weeks prior to surgery:

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis ): Bleeding

Dan Shen ( Red Sage): Bleeding ( The Chinese use this herb as a cheaper substitute for ginseng in many formulas)

Vitamin E should always be stopped several weeks before surgery for it’s bleeding effects

So what should you take to help heal from the surgery.

This is a program from Alan Gaby MD and Jonathan Wright MD.

Begin this program 2 weeks prior to surgery and continue it for 4 weeks after surgery. Take:

· High-potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement (including Vitamin K)

· Vitamin C, 1,000 mg, 2-3 times a day

· Vitamin E, 400 IU/day (Start this after surgery)

· Vitamin A, 25,000 IU/day

· Zinc (picolinate or citrate), 30 mg/day

· Copper, 2 mg/day

· Flavonoids:
-- Citrus bioflavonoids, 500-1,000 mg., 2-3 times a day; or
-- Herbal Flavonoids 2-3 capsules per day;
-- Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola standardized extract

· Proteolytic enzymes are recommended to reduce inflammation and swelling at the surgical site. Choices include:
-- Pancreatin, 1,400 mg, 2-3 capsules, 3 times a day; or
-- Bromelain (2,000 mcu/g), 250 mg, 2-3 capsules, 3 times a day.

Enzymes should be started as soon as possible after surgery and continued for one week. The dosage may be reduced by half after the first 3 days. Enzymes work best when taken on an empty stomach.

Homeopathic Arnica 30x this can be started right after surgery as sublingual drops.

Probiotics before and after.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Nutrients for Surgery January 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter January 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Doc, What Nutrients do I stop before surgery, and what do I take to promote healing?

We hear that question all the time. So I thought we should review what we recommend as a general rule. Obviously everyone is different and if you are taking certain nutrients that you aren’t sure of, talk it over with a health care provider. Also if there are complications this list can change and grow substantially. So much for the disclaimers!!!

What to stop before surgery.

Let me give you the list the American Medical Association publishes and their reasons.

Echinacea: immune suppression (could interfere with wound healing), liver inflammation in combination with certain drugs

Ephedra: (ma huang) heartbeat irregularities, blood pressure

Feverfew: bleeding

Garlic: bleeding

Ginkgo Biloba: bleeding

Ginseng: bleeding, low blood sugar

Goldenseal: high blood pressure and swelling

Kava: increase anti-seizure medications and/or anesthesia effects

Licorice: high blood pressure; swelling; electrolyte imbalances

Saw Palmetto: interact with hormone therapies

St. John’s Wort: prolong anesthesia effects

Valerian: increase anti-seizure medication effects or prolong anesthesia effects

A few comments: Licorice in the therapeutic doses found in most supplements has been shown to be perfectly safe. (VERY LARGE Doses have been a problem). There is no good clinical evidence to back up the claim against echinacea , as a matter of fact the reverse is true.( It helps immune system function). Ginseng’s blood sugar lowering effects have been greatly overplayed, as most literature points out it will help normalize blood sugar. So if you are extremely high and on meds it may bring it down to the point that the meds need to be reduced.

I would add to the list of herbs to stop 2 weeks prior to surgery:

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis ): Bleeding

Dan Shen ( Red Sage): Bleeding ( The Chinese use this herb as a cheaper substitute for ginseng in many formulas)

Vitamin E should always be stopped several weeks before surgery for it’s bleeding effects

So what should you take to help heal from the surgery.

This is a program from Alan Gaby MD and Jonathan Wright MD.

Begin this program 2 weeks prior to surgery and continue it for 4 weeks after surgery. Take:

· High-potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement (including Vitamin K)

· Vitamin C, 1,000 mg, 2-3 times a day

· Vitamin E, 400 IU/day (Start this after surgery)

· Vitamin A, 25,000 IU/day

· Zinc (picolinate or citrate), 30 mg/day

· Copper, 2 mg/day

· Flavonoids:
-- Citrus bioflavonoids, 500-1,000 mg., 2-3 times a day; or
-- Herbal Flavonoids 2-3 capsules per day;
-- Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola standardized extract

· Proteolytic enzymes are recommended to reduce inflammation and swelling at the surgical site. Choices include:
-- Pancreatin, 1,400 mg, 2-3 capsules, 3 times a day; or
-- Bromelain (2,000 mcu/g), 250 mg, 2-3 capsules, 3 times a day.

Enzymes should be started as soon as possible after surgery and continued for one week. The dosage may be reduced by half after the first 3 days. Enzymes work best when taken on an empty stomach.

Homeopathic Arnica 30x this can be started right after surgery as sublingual drops.

Probiotics before and after.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

December 2007 Holiday greeting

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter December 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

” Every good and perfect gift is from above”

As we approach the busy holiday season, we sometimes get so wrapped up in the hustle and business that for some it is overwhelming. We are reminded as health care workers that this season finds many who are lonely and depressed, with all the stresses of the season they have a much more difficult time dealing than any other time of year.

Let us take a moment out of our busy lives and reach out a comforting hand, a kind word, a selfless deed to all people around us, as you never know who might need it.

We in America have been truly blessed with an abundance of many things. FHN has been blessed with an ability to serve our community in many unique ways.

Let’s be thankful for that abundance and the opportunity to serve as we head into a new year with the many changes that are about to come. And remember that “ every good and perfect gift is from above ”.

Mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance.

Sincerely

Complementary Medicine

Dr. Julie, Dr. Glenn, Julie, Linda, and Dana

Thiamine November 2007

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter November 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Is your diuretic giving you BeriBeri??????

So what is beriberi? It is a deficiency of the B1 vitamin known as thiamine. Symptoms include weight loss, emotional disturbances, impaired sensory perception (Wernicke's encephalopathy), weakness and pain in the limbs, and periods of irregular heart rate. Edema (swelling of bodily tissues) is common. In advanced cases, the disease may cause heart failure and death. The disease was common in Asia where polished white rice is a stable of the diet and has had all the B vitamins removed in the husk. Subclinical deficiencies do exist in the west.

Nutritional Reviews 58(10): 319-323 had an article studying the effects of diuretics on thiamin. It found that many diuretics deplete thiamine and magnesium.

Interesting magnesium is needed to convert thiamin into its active form and also relaxes smooth muscle and reduces BP.

So if you are on a diuretic you may need more than just your potassium replaced. Some small doses of B1 and magnesium may help reduce the amount of the diuretic you need and may help your heart not advance into congestive heart failure.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Cold Laser How it works Oct 2007

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter October 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

What’s in a Therapeutic Laser and Why does it work.??????

Those are two of the more frequent questions we get asked about LASER therapy that we do here at Complementary Medicine. As most of you know we use a low power laser for smoking cessation, carpal tunnel, weight lose, wound healing, and many pain control applications. So how does shining a light on it make good things happen? There have been many PhD papers written on the subject and much additional research is being done daily. We are going to look at this from a very rudimentary level. (For those of you who hate physics!)

We are fortunate to have a class 4 laser which gives us enough power to effect deeper tissues effectively. So …..What’s in a laser. We actually have 3 laser in one. They are made of special LED’s (similar to those lights that are on all your electronic equipment these days). We have three separate diodes that produce 3 separate wavelengths of light. (650nm red light, 790nm infrared, and 975nm infra red, for those who just have to know). The different wavelengths they have found have different therapeutic effects and different penetrating effects. Those diodes are then put through different lenses to additionally focus the light to a small beam.

Why does it work? Many in the medical community are surprised to find out that there is good solid physics behind the physical effects. So what are some of them? Just a quick review of cell biology. Inside the cells are “chromophores”, these are light sensitive apparatus that are responsible for many functions inside the cell including ATP (energy) formation.

So the first thing the laser does is increase energy at the cellular level. When tissue is damaged it requires increase energy levels to heal. Other documented effects are the increase in nitric oxide, calcium ion balance restoration, increased collagen formation in the fibroblasts, increased action potential in nerves, stimulation of immune system. These are a few known effects, more are being learned everyday.

Beside the wavelength being an important factor in therapeutic laser so is dosage measured in Joules (watt-secs) of energy. We must get enough laser energy to the tissue that we want to effect to get the physical effects to happen. Our new class 4 laser has from 10mw to 5 watts of power that we can deliver to the tissue. This allows us to effect tissues we could not have previously reached and to cut treatment times down.

So there is a short course in why it works. We hope you find this useful.

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Carnitine Deficiency From Antibiotic

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter Sept. 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Carnitine Deficiency Associated with Antibiotic Use

There was a recent case (to be published in Pediatrics) about an 18 month old boy who was on long term antibiotic therapy for “intractable” otitis media. The boy was admitted to the hospital having seizures, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. Lab tests revealed hypoglycemia and hypocarnitinemia. IV glucose was ineffective against the seizures and LOC. IV carnitine resolved both.

The antibiotic involved with this case was a Cephem (Cefitorem Pivoxil). It appears that the antibiotics containing Pivalic Acid all deplete carnitine. Some other antibiotics that involve pivalic acid include Pandocillin and Selexid.

All tissues that use fatty acids as a fuel source, or require coenzyme A for cellular reactions, require availability of carnitine for normal function.

Carnitine has been shown in several studies to be effective in reducing heart related problems including CHF, MI’s, and angina. In addition intermittent claudication also seems to be positively effected by carnitine levels.

We have been talking for years about how we need to replace the good bacteria (Probiotic) with antibiotic use. Now it becomes obvious that use of these antibiotics should also include supplementation with carnitine.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Tamoxifen and Q10 May 2007

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter May 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Tamoxifen and CoQ10

An interesting study was just done in India on Lipids in post-menopausal women breast cancer patients taking tamoxifen. Tamoxifen therapy seems to induce higher lipid levels in patients. Therefore enzyme CoQ10, riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), were given to these patients for 90 days to see how they responded.

The study involved 78 women with breast cancer (these are women who have already gone through primary cancer therapy) in 3 groups. Those who were untreated, those who were treated with Tamoxifen alone (10 mg/twice a day), and those who were treated with Tamoxifen (10 mg/twice a day) plus coenzyme Q10 (100 mg), riboflavin (10 mg) and niacin (50 mg), and 46 age- and sex- matched controls without breast cancer. (The dosage of niacin is certainly low enough as to not cause any liver concerns.)

Results found that compared to control subjects without breast cancer, all lipid and lipoprotein levels were significantly altered in untreated breast cancer patients. Compared to untreated breast cancer patients, levels of serum triglycerides and very-low-density cholesterol were significantly elevated and levels of HDL cholesterol were significantly reduced among patients with breast cancer treated with Tamoxifen alone. After 90 days of treatment with coenzyme Q10, riboflavin, and niacin, "all the lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities were reverted back to near normal levels!”

Certainly this is a small study, but with the low doses used it would certainly warrant the use of these nutrients with Tamoxifen therapy.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Spring Cleaning April 2007 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter April 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Spring is the time for house cleaning

Spring is the time we clean the house and get out all the winter clutter and dirt. The body is no different, it needs a good spring cleaning also.

The Chinese say that the “liver predominates” in the spring. After a winter of heavy food, holiday binging, and not much exercise, the liver awakens and gets things moving. Gallbladder flare-ups are common, as are gallbladder channel headaches. As the qi begins to move and the liver system becomes more active, stagnant toxins may become more apparent! So we start to get these spring symptoms, the phlegm starts moving; the eyes water; the sinuses gush; and Americans all over rush to find something - anything - to stuff that unsightly phlegm back in deeper than ever. The solution is the phlegm and its accompanying toxins and parasites must come out.

The liver wants nothing more than a spring cleaning - for most, this means fasting and cleansing diets. However, most Americans are overfed year-round. Few Americans fast voluntarily. In our not-so-distant ancestry, fasting was common. No food? What are you going to eat? In springtime, you can plant food, but there's nothing to harvest until later - it's a historically common time to go hungry.

So am I telling you to stop eating? No, but we need to make some dietary changes and allow the natural cleansing to start to work. . It is a natural part of the cycle of life. If winter didn't kill you off, it's time to get moving!

Start with what you are eating…..lighten it up!

Here are some suggestions:

• Granny smith apples
• Beets
• Carrots
• Pears
• Lemon
• Lime
• Miso soup
• Rice
• Vegetables

We also do a couple of other things to expedite the process. To help the liver and intestine cleanse we have a medical food product called Ultraclear that we put patients on to help the process (no we don’t sell this without seeing the patient first to make sure it is right for them). We also use Milk Weed Thistle (Silymarum) Capsules to help the liver function better and repair any damage it may have.

So it is springtime, time for a cleaning.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Fiber Facts Newsletter 2007

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter March 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Fiber Facts ( you aren’t getting enough)

We all know the benefits of fiber! Fiber not only promotes health, it also helps reduce the risk for some chronic diseases. For instance, fiber prevents constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticulosis. Fiber is also linked to prevent some cancers especially colon and breast cancer. In addition, fiber may help lower the LDL cholesterol (the Bad cholesterol) and the total cholesterol therefore reducing the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, fiber can help lower blood sugar therefore help better manage diabetes.

The intake of crude fiber in the American diet was assessed for 7 time periods between 1909 and 1975 using food consumption and composition tables. Crude fiber intake dropped 28% from 6.8 g/day in 1909 to 4.9 g/day in 1957 to 1959 and has remained at that level until the present. The intake of fiber from vegetables has remained relatively constant from 1909 to 1975 while potatoes, fruit, cereals, dry peas, and dry bean consumption have declined. The trends shown for crude fiber consumption in the United States support the hypothesis that fiber intake has decreased coincidentally with increases in degenerative diseases.

Fiber falls into 2 broad catagories soluble and insoluble. Both soluble and insoluble fiber are undigested. They are therefore not absorbed into the bloodstream. Instead of being used for energy, fiber is excreted from our bodies. Soluble fiber forms a gel when mixed with liquid, while insoluble fiber does not. Insoluble fiber passes through our intestines largely intact, therefore bulks up the size and weight of the feces. Soluble fiber bind with fatty acids and prolong stomach emptying time so that sugar is released and absorbed more slowly.

The RDA of fiber is 25 grams. Sadly the average American diet contains between 1.7g to 10g per day. Obviously we need to do better. We need 5-6 servings of vegetables (potatoes don’t count and ketchup is not a vegetable) and 3-4 WHOLE grain servings per day to come close to that amount. The best source of fiber is your food. If you can’t or won’t eat that much you may need to supplement your fiber input. But not all fibers are the same…the fiber you take depends on what you need and what you are trying to accomplish.

Here are some ideas.

Wheat Bran Increase Fecal Bulk

Oat Bran Binds bile salts

Gums Laxative

Guar,legumes, psyllium, citrus rind, Bind steroids,delay gastric emptying,

Apple, onion skin, agar,carrageenan and remove heavy metals

Wheat , apple, Cabbage , Broccolli Antioxidant, anticarcinogenic

So start chewing for your health.

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Chidhood asthma and probiotics

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter February 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Is there something parents can do to change whether their children will get asthma? Babies who received a course of antibiotics during the first six months of life are 2.5 times more likely than their peers to have developed asthma by age 7, according to a Henry Ford Health System study. And babies who took even one round broad-spectrum antibiotics were 8.9 times more likely to acquire asthma. The study, presented at the European Respiratory Society's September 2003 annual conference, and reported by Reuters Health, also demonstrated a link between infants antibiotic use and other allergic diseases such as eczema. Recent controlled studies showing that giving probiotics (active cultures of beneficial bacteria) lowers the risk of allergic disease suggest that these data point to antibiotics actively raising the risk.

A study in the Journal of Pediatrics (November 2004 Volume 145, Number 6) showed Children with atopic dermatitis (AD) have increased intestinal permeability, thought to be due to increased mucosal inflammation. The investigators demonstrated that administration of probiotics could reduce eczema in patients with AD.The trial also reviewed whether administration of probiotics could reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.

The investigators concluded that the gut mucosal barrier is less effective for patients with AD and can be improved with the use of probiotic bacteria and GI symptoms could be reduced. Antibiotics reduce the gut mucosal barrier. If antibiotics are important to give, ask for the most narrow-spectrum choice that would work (antibiotics that kill the desired bacteria, and as few of the bystander bacteria as practical). Whenever a child needs antibiotics, We suggest giving probiotics to replenish the diversity of beneficial bacteria.

In children under 2 the bifido bacterias predominate and should be in the probiotic that is given. After 2 years of age lactobacillus strains predominate and should be the majority of what is given.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Migraines and Acupuncture January 2007

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter January 2007

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Migraines and Acupuncture

Those people that have ever suffered from migraines know how debilitating they can be. One of the standard prophylactic treatments is metoprolol (toprol). A study was recently done in Germany comparing the effectiveness of toprol to acupuncture for the PREVENTION of migraines.

In a randomized controlled multi-center trial involving 114 patients who experience migraine headaches, treatment with acupuncture over the course of 12 weeks was found to be as effective as standard prophylactic drug therapy for the prevention of migraine headaches. The study began with a 4 week pre-randomization period, in which subjects recorded information about their headaches in a headache diary. Subjects were randomized into one of two groups. Group1 received 8-15 acupuncture treatments over the course of 12 weeks. Group2 received the commonly used, first-line drug for migraine prophylaxis, metoprolol (brand names: Lopressor, Toprol-XL), 100-200 mg/d over the course of the same 12 week period. Subjects were followed up with for an additional 12 weeks following the intervention period. Outcomes were primarily assessed based on the difference in the number of days with migraines before randomization as compared to the number of days with migraine between weeks 9-12 after randomization. While only 2 subjects randomized to acupuncture dropped out of the study, 18 subjects randomized to drug therapy dropped out (7 experienced intolerable side effects, 1 experienced worsening of symptoms, 7 refused to take the drug). The percentage of subjects who experienced at least a 50% reduction in migraine attacks was 61% for subjects who received acupuncture and 49% for subjects who received metoprolol. Furthermore, subjects who received acupuncture experienced a 2.5 day reduction in the number of days with migraines, while subjects who received metoprolol experienced a reduction of 2.2 days.

This research certainly agrees with what we experience at Complementary Medicine. In addition to the acupuncture we add chiropractic care and nutritional support for very good migraine control.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Gerd Alternatives December 2006

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter December 2006

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

GERD Alternatives

With the holiday season approaching , some of us…… not all, might have a tendency to over eat causing a problem with those who have GERD. An interesting study was just published in the Journal of Pineal Research (2006; 41(3):195-200).

A total of 351 patients with symptoms of GERD were divided into two groups. One group was given 20mg of omeprazole (Prilosec) and one group was given a mixture of melatonin (6 mg), B-6 (25 mg), L tryptophan (200mg), B-12 (50 ug), methionine (100 mg), betaine (100mg), and folic acid (10mg). They had a pharmacy put all the ingredients in one capsule that was identical to the Prilosec. One capsule a day for 40 days was taken.

Results were measured by symptom score and endoscopic exam.

The results….. drum roll please. After 7 days the supplement group reported symptom relief and after 40 days, 100% of the supplement group reported total remission of symptoms. This compares to the omeprazole group that took 9 days for symptom relief and 65.7% had regression after 40 days. The supplement patients reported far fewer side effects, with the only side effect being somnolence.

Endoscopic studies showed complete healing of ulcers after 9months in the supplement group.

An interesting side study was done. After the study was over the 34% that failed on the drug arm were crossed over and given the supplements. 100% of that group reported all symptoms disappeared in 40 days. Some food for thought!!! Pun intended!

May you have a blessed and wonderful holiday season!

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Diabetic Neuropathies and Carnatine

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter October 2006

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Diabetic Neuropathies and Carnitine

Diabetic peripheral neuropathies (DN) can be extremely debilitating and difficult to deal with. The Townsend Newsletter just published this study which shows the use of carnitine in the treatment of diabetic neuropathies.

Some 1,257 patients with diabetic neuropathy were randomly assigned to receive, in double-blind fashion, placebo or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) at a dose of 500 or 1,000 mg

3 times a day for 1 year. Efficacy end points were sural nerve morphometry, nerve conduction velocities, vibration perception thresholds, clinical symptom scores, and a visual analogue scale for the most bothersome symptom, most notably pain.

RESULTS: Data showed significant improvements in sural nerve fiber numbers and regenerating nerve fiber clusters. Nerve conduction velocities and amplitudes did not improve, whereas vibration perception improved in the study. Pain as the most bothersome symptom showed significant improvement.

The 500 mg(tid) dose seem to work better for sural nerve regeneration and the 1000mg (tid) dose worked better on pain , which would point out the need for individual dosing and monitoring of the patient.

At Comp Med we use carnitine as part of a program for DN, which would include other nutritional interventions and the use of a pulsed LED red light array on the feet. This has the effect of increasing circulation to the periphery.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Med

Acupuncture for Nausea September 2006

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter September 2006

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Acupuncture and Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting

A recent article in Explore (2006;2(4):315-20) did a meta analysis of 24 hr postoperative nausea and vomiting in children. It concluded that acupuncture reduces vomiting in children equivalent to medications.

The study looked at 12 trials. All were effective in controlling vomiting. Three of the studies compared to medication intervention and were found to be equivocal.

The results of these studies are not surprising as acupuncture has been found to be effective in treatment of morning sickness nausea and vomiting in pregnant females.

Sloan Kettering Hospital routinely does pre and post operative acupuncture to help control nausea, vomiting and anxiety associated with surgery.

This study also looked at different methods of stimulation of the acupuncture points. acupuncture, acupressure, electricstim and laser. All were found to have efficacy, but acupuncture was found to be the most effective.

The acupuncture treatment usually involves placing the needles in the foot and wrist areas for 15-20 minutes one to two times a day. Many feel relief within 30 minutes of the initial treatment. Some may require multiple treatments to fully subside the vomiting.

So, you and your loved ones have another option for post surgical nausea and vomiting.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Trouble with Fosamax August 2006 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter August 2006

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Trouble with Fosamax

The June 28, 2006 JAMA (vol 295, No.24) reported that patients taking bisphosphanates (ie Fosamax, Boniva, Actonel, Zometa, etc.) have started to report an adverse event , osteo necrosis of the jaw. To date over 2000 cases have been reported, and the manufacturers have sent out letters of caution to physicians and dentists. At first they thought it was only in patients that were on high dose intravenous therapy as a part of cancer therapy, however cases have started to arise with normal oral dose patients. This has the FDA thinking that the problem may be a class effect. In addition to this some patients are reporting moderate to severe bone and joint pain.

So, while I recognize that this is preliminary, and that in the case of cancer treatment, this may be an acceptable risk, let’s look at other options.

First we need to establish the condition of the patients’ current bone density.

A baseline bone density test in appropriate age and risk patients is certainly warranted.

In addition we recommend that our patients do a bone resorption assessment (Genova Diagnostics). This is a urine test that measures two specific collagen fibers related to bone osteoclastic activity. These markers can very quickly change and are useful in determining both therapy efficacy and dosage.

A third lab test measuring 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 is useful in determining biological stores of the active vitamin D3. While Mayo lab puts the reference range at 25-80ng/ml we find that most people at risk need to be above 50ng/ml.

With these lab test results we would then dose and treat the patient with the following:

Calcium in the form of calcium hydroxyapitite. 1000-1500mg day

Boron 300 mcg/day

Vitamin D3 in doses of 400IU and up (depending on D3 levels)

Magnesium at least half of calcium levels

Retest the crosslink and D3 levels in 3 months to dose adjust.

Additionally, Lysine can help the cross linking fibers and strontium can be added for bone density.

We hope this will provide reasonable alternatives to the bisphophanates.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Magnesium to the Rescue July 2006

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter July 2006

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Magnesium to the rescue!

A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2006 Jun 21 epub) just concluded an interesting study on Asthma in children and magnesium.

In a small scale (N=37) randomized , parallel , placebo controlled, double blind study asthmatic children and adolescent already receiving treatment with fluticasone, magnesium (300 mg/day) was added to the active group. The control group was given a placebo with the fluticasone. Intervention went on for two months. Salbutamol was available in both groups prn.

A metacholine challenge test (to induce an asthmatic response) was administered at beginning and end of the trial period. The results……….The magnesium group alone showed reduced reactivity to the metacholine, in addition skin sensitivity to known antigenic items reduced . Functional lung capacities remained the same in both.

I know that this is a small study but certainly bears a closer look.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Oxidatvie Stress June 2006 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter June 2006

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Oxidative Stress

The body constantly reacts with oxygen as part of the energy producing processes of cells. As a consequence of this activity, highly reactive molecules are produced known as free radicals. These interact with other molecules within the cell, which can cause oxidative damage to proteins, membranes and genes. This damage has been implicated in the cause of certain diseases and has an impact on the body's aging process.

The body must constantly “ deactivate” these free radicals ( Reactive oxygen species (ROS)) before they can cause damage.

Some of the nutritional elements that help in this process include vitamins C, E, folic acid, glutathione, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), selenomethionine (SeM), alpha-lipoic acid, niacin, thiamin, Co-enzyme Q10, and green tea .

A recent study (using the equivalent of 4 cups of green tea per day) showed substantial reduction in all areas of oxidative stress. Green tea contains polyphenols and essential oils that strengthen blood vessels, protect vit C from oxygenation, help regulate thyroid hyperfunction, help prevent dental caries, and can inhibit tumor growth especially in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

So start drinking your green tea…let it step for about 5 minutes to get some of the good things out it and enjoy!!!

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Alpha Lipoic Acid May 2006 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter May 2006

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Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an antioxidant, and is widely used in prevention of various diseases. Its main function is to increase production of glutathione, which helps dissolve toxic substances in the liver. Alpha lipoic acid can be found in small amounts in foods such as meats and veggies (ie. spinach). Alpha lipoic acid is also easily absorbed into the blood stream, and it can also cross the blood brain barrier.

Alpha Lipoic Acid has many benefits, and all types of people will benefit from taking ALA. ALA will be even more beneficial for individuals with some of the following conditions:

• Diabetes or higher than normal blood sugar levels
• Have high cholesterol levels
• Are affected by cataracts (in early stages)
• Cardiovascular problems such as hardening of arteries

There is a long list of benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid, some have even gone so far as to call it the "ideal antioxidant".

One of the main benefits of ALA is the treatment of neuropathic pain. Alpha lipoic acid has been used for decades in Europe to counter nerve damage in people with diabetes (types 1 and 2). The neuropathy may be caused in part by free-radical damage to nerves resulting from poorly regulated blood sugar (glucose). As an antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid helps to block such damage. In addition, because of its effect on glucose metabolism, ALA may improve the glucose-lowering action of insulin. Which brings up a caution!! You may need to adjust your dosage of your meds as blood sugars drop.

Dosages have ranged from 100-3000 mg per day with 600-800 mg being the dosage most people found to be helpful in reducing the pain.

Alpha lipoic acid has few if any side effects. Doses between 50mg to 100mg, and higher, can cause nausea and upset stomachs. Excessive doses can even lead to low blood sugar. On the plus side, taking alpha lipoic acid can sometimes lead to a mild and relaxing feeling, and to a feeling of well-being.

Neuropathic pain can be extremely devastating; ALA may just help relieve some of that devastation.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine