Tis The Season of the Heart

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter December 2008

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Tis the season of the Heart

It is the holiday season where we turn our hearts to peace and goodwill toward men. What better time to talk about the heart. The heart in Chinese physiology obviously moves the blood around the body but also is the store house of the emotions. When the balance of the five emotions (joy, grief, worry, fear, and anger) is not there, it is reflected in our physical and emotional well being. We get palpitations, depression, and immune system depression just to name a few. Just as when blood doesn’t flow smoothly, it causes physical problems. When the emotions don’t flow smoothly, it prevents you from moving forward in life.

The Chinese are constantly striving to balance the physical and emotional aspect to bring about healing the whole person.

So in this month of celebrating Christmas let’s strive for a balance in food, drink, rest, and emotion.

May you be filled with peace, joy, and love this holiday!

Sincerely,

Dr. Glenn, Dr. Julie, Julie, Linda, Amanda

Complementary Medicine

Lungs November 2008 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter November 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Lungs/Immunity

Last month we looked at the spleen function from a Chinese medical point of view. This month we will look at the lungs. With “cold and flu season” on the way immunity/ lungs play a huge role. The lungs connect to the outside environment from the very first breath we take. In TCM the lungs and skin are all part of the same system in that they shield you from environmental influences. Therefore sweating (skin) and fevers are part of the way the lungs use to expel the pathogens they come in contact with. One of the ways that TCM deals with early onset of pathogens is to expel them by diaphoresis using herbs. We have a product called Essential Defense that does exactly that. Many times if taken at the initial stages it stops the progression of the pathogen and the symptoms abate within a day.

Tonifying the lungs is one of the best ways to prevent cold and flu’s and allergies. Chi Gong exercises have specific breathing and movements designed to do exactly that. Other ways of tonifying include acupuncture and diet therapy to reduce inflammation and mucous, such as curcumin, ginger, asparagus, broccoli, artichokes, etc.

So as winter approaches start tonifying your lungs with diaphragmatic breathing, eating right and moving the rib cage and lungs….you will be surprised.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

October 2008 Health from the East

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter October 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Wellness from the Eastern point of view

Oriental Medicine (OM) emphasizes the need for balance and harmony in the body in order to maintain health in all aspects of life. The key to health/wellness in oriental medicine is simplified into keeping five main systems/organs in balance. The five organ systems (Diet/Spleen, Emotions/Heart, Immunity/Lungs, Detoxification/Liver, and Spirit/Kidney) work together to perform physiologic functions in the body and interact and affect the other. This month we will focus on Diet/ Spleen function. In the months to come we will cover the rest.

Diet/ Spleen

The spleen organ system ( note it is more than just the named organ) in Chinese thought is in charge of all digestion. The spleen doesn’t like cold or damp food, as it is hard to assimilate. Raw foods in OM are cold in nature and are therefore more difficult to digest. Dairy and meats are damp. A diet consisting only of these elements will tend cause gas, bloating, GERD, and inconsistent bowels. So the Chinese combine these foods with other elements to warm them. For instance at a sushi bar (raw seafood, therefore cold and damp) you will find spices like ginger, horseradish, wasabi, Soy sauce, etc. to warm the foods and dry the dampness helping to assimilate them. You will find that many of the favorite Chinese dishes are balanced with flavors and spices to balance the properties of that particular dish, like dry the dampness, warm the cold, sweeten the sour, etc. From a western perspective we certainly have discovered that adding certain spices can greatly enhance its health value. Ginger is good for the stomach, Cumin is anti-inflammatory, cinnamon is good for blood sugar, etc.

There is much more to the spleen organ system than we just mentioned but those are some of the basics.

Sincerely,

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Pain Eraser Sept 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter September 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Chronic Pain Gone in minutes!!!

Sounds to good to be true. That’s what Dr. Julie and I said when we heard those claims but decided to check it out further. Dr. Stephen Kaufman has developed what he terms Pain Neutralization Technique (PNT) to do just that. Dr. Kaufman bases PNT on some well known neurological principles. Some of those are the golgi tendon reflex (stretch reflex), competitive inhibition, and myotatic reflexes.

Activating the golgi tendon reflex in a muscle group that has pain or trigger points result in the muscle going flaccid. Witness weightlifters who try to over lift and lose the strength in the muscle. By contrast, stretching a muscle and stimulating the myotatic reflex will strengthen that muscle. Dr. Kaufman has combined these two principles in some very simple yet unique ways to affect the pain relief.

As I said we were skeptical so we took a training seminar with Dr. Kaufman, and sure enough after a little practice and some trail and error we were turning off some very stubborn pain.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary

I'm Stuck on Mastic Gum Aug. 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter August 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

I’m Stuck on Mastic Gum

Mastic gum is a resin from an evergreen shrub found in the middle east. It has been utilized for centuries for digestive disorders.

There have been several recent and not so recent articles on mastic gum healing ulcers.

The first was in 1998 in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that mastic gum inhibited 7 different strains of H. pylori, including three that were resistant to antibiotic therapy. A 2007 study from the University of Athens showed a 30 fold reduction in the colonization of H. pylori. The same people studied the effect’s on Crohn’s disease and showed a reduction in the inflammation molecule tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha).

Patient usually show marked improvement in two weeks of therapy and substantial improvement/ healing in thirty days. Before some asks, mastic gum is a resin that they put in capsule form, so you won’t have to be chewing it.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Cockleburs July 2008 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter July 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

I hate cockleburs….or do I?

How many times have you had a walk in nature and come back with the pesky cockleburs? Or your dog or cat comes in from outdoors and you have to spend time pulling out those pesky burrs? Well next time before you start uttering four letter words (like….. darn) think about the following. Cockleburs ( Xanthium strumarium, the Chinese call it Cang Er Zi) has been used for centuries in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. You know the runny nose and itchy eyes that are brought on by pollens, grass, etc. Those things that are especially nasty from spring to late summer.

Xanthium has been found to inhibit the formation of histamine in the body. This is different than an antihistamine which block the receptor site for histamine but doesn’t reduce the production of it. The net effect is it reduces the allergic response without all the drowsiness associated with some antihistamines.

At Complementary Medicine we have a product called Xanthium 12 (which actually has twelve herbs in it) that we use for allergies. The synergistic herbs also act on other pathways and help reduce some of the other causes of inflammation (ie leukotrienes) in the upper respiratory system.

So next time you stumble over a cocklebur use another four letter word like I “love” it.

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Sunburn June 2008 Newsletter

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter June 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Sunburn…it’s summer

Well believe it or not summer is finally coming to northern Illinois, and with it spending time in the sun….You know that big bright spot in the sky that shows up occasionally. The problem is always how to protect yourself from the harmful effects of it, yet let it make some vit D for you.

Meta analysis done of seven studies showed that beta carotene (vit A precursor) has demonstrated all day, whole body protection from the harmful rays of the sun.

Dosages in the study ranged from 15mg to 180mg per day.

The problem with the timing of this newsletter is that it required a minimum of 10 weeks of supplementation to offer the protection. So if you have already been taking beta carotene, you may drop back on the number sunblock you have been using and get a better tan. If not start now and wait until the end of the summer to drop the sunblock number down.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

Proton Pump Inhibitors and B12 May 2008

FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter May 2008

www.mrdrpilot.blogspot.com

Proton Pump Inhibitors and B12

Vitamin B12 deficiencies in the elderly can be quite significant and cause significant problems, from fatigue to mental disorientation, to anemias. A recent study comparing longer term use of proton pump inhibitor’s (PPI) and H2 blockers and B12 deficiencies in the elderly, showed some interesting results.

659 subjects (AGE 60-102) were studied. 54 percent of them were either on H2 blockers or PPI for an average duration of 18.2 months. B12 levels were measured in all patients including those not on either med (controls).

The group on the PPI had significant decline in their B12 status that was not was not eliminated with oral B12 supplementation. Those on the H2 blockers did not show a decline.

(author note: They used extremely low (RDA) dosages of B12 for oral supplementation which in this case certainly was not enough.)

So if have elderly patients or relatives on PPI’s, their B12 status needs to be continually monitored.

Sincerely

Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith

Complementary Medicine

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