Pain and Inflammation

There is nothing that dampens motivation quite like pain.  The pain of injury or over-doing may be tolerable.  But chronic pain, joint stiffness, swelling and inflammation that persist can be very discouraging.  Pain is our body’s most effective way to get our attention alerting us that something is wrong. Once alerted it is important that we listen and take the appropriate action to resolve the cause. Unfortunately, slick advertisers have educated us that the best way to deal with pain is to take a pain-relieving drug. Most of us have become savvy to the fact that most drugs are designed to manage or control symptoms and NOT assist in the healing or recovery process.  While a pain reliever may help you make it through the day or through a long night, what you really want is something that you can do to improve, not cover up.  Fortunately, there is hope and there can be lasting relief. 

While there are over 100 different kinds of arthritis, there are two main types:  Degenerative arthritis also called Osteoarthritis and Inflammatory arthritis also called Rheumatoid Arthritis.  The treatment recommendations are very similar, with only a few variations, but those who are willing to make a few changes can literally get their life back.  An active life without joint pain is pretty wonderful.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the result of progressive wearing away of cartilage and other structures that cushion the bones where they meet. As these tissues wear away, the bones at the joint begin to erode and no longer move smoothly and easily. The body responds to this irritation by depositing minerals or calcium at the joints forming bone spurs. The person with osteoarthritis becomes cold and stiff down to the bones. Whether this degenerative arthritic condition is the result of an old injury (post-traumatic arthritis) or “wear and tear” from many years of hard use or even lack of use, the tissues need to be nourished and restored to eliminate the pain. What is needed by the person with this type of arthritis is warmth, flexibility and an increase in the body’s power to dissolve the excess minerals deposited in the joints. If we can increase the body’s dissolving forces, we can loosen the grip of excessive mineralization, thereby dissolving the painful deposits affecting the joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis can be considered the opposite of osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis includes rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis and Reiter’s syndrome. Think of these types of arthritis in terms of stagnation. Inflammatory arthritis is the condition in which our tissues, in particular the tissues of our muscular and skeletal systems, become waterlogged and have unhealthy, stagnant pockets of fluid that become stiff, achy and inflamed. The inflammation settles into the cartilage and cushioning structures of the joints and if left untreated will eventually destroy the affected joint.

While there are many common factors in the treatment of these two types of arthritis, some of the remedies are specific to the type. Our first objective is to get some relief from the painful and inflamed joints that you are suffering with.  As follows are some of the herbal remedies that we have found to be very effective in relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis as well as many diseases and illnesses that have an inflammatory component (such as Alzheimer’s – inflammation in the brain).

HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS

Anti-Inflammation Formula – 3 capsules - twice daily.  This powerful yet safe product will effectively reduce and eliminate the inflammation and pain of arthritis, irritable bowel complaints such as IBS and Crohn’s Disease. In addition, studies even show that the herbs turmeric and boswellia (the main herbs in this formula) benefit many other conditions ranging from Alzheimer’s, diabetes and can even be cancer preventing.

Nerve Calm Formula - both a sedative and anti-spasmodic designed to relax, sedate and relieve tension and muscle spasm associated with pain.

Pain Relief Formula – Non-narcotic pain relief, particularly suited for chronic pain.  Relaxes and calms nervous irritation associated with pain.

Deep Heat Ointment & Oil - This deep and penetrating product warms and soothes aching joints and muscles. These products can be intensified by applying after a hot shower or bath.

Arnica Oil/Extract - Used topically to relieve pain associated with injury or inflammation.

California Poppy Extract - non-narcotic pain relief that is not addictive.

White Willow bark Extract or Capsules - The very first aspirin (salicylic acid) used by Native Americans. Unlike the over-the-counter drug, white willow bark contains all of the supporting nutrients that will prevent unwanted side-effects such as stomach irritation.

Secondly, some modifications of your diet will allow your body to heal and become more flexible and active.  Almost all arthritis, joint pain and inflammation respond positively to a healthy, nourishing, wholesome diet. Nutrition is based on two things. What you eat and what you don’t eat. You must eat the health building nutritious foods and you must not eat the health-robbing foods. The issue is to focus on quality and stop putting into your body devitalized, denatured, and chemically altered processed foods.   Don’t interpret this to mean that you can never have ice cream or desserts again. Think in terms of high quality foods and treats.  What we ask is to eat healthier, better tasting, better quality food and get rid of the processed toxic-chemical laden foods.  In essence, what is described below is the farmers’ diet of 150 years ago.  Healthy, robust, very satisfying and delicious.

AVOID In Your Diet

Processed and Junk Foods.  All empty and devitalized foods should be avoided.  Read the labels and don’t eat foods with chemical additives.

Processed Oils.  Devitalized oils (such as most commercial vegetable oils and hydrogenated oils) interfere with the body’s prostaglandins causing inflammation. Avoid Crisco shortening, all margarines, canola oil, corn oil and any oil that is not cold-pressed, extra virgin.

Fruit juices and sweets made from corn syrup or high fructose corn syrup. These not only harm the immune system, but make the body more prone to inflammation.

Soda pop, especially diet soda which contain aspartame.  Many who suffer from joint pain and inflammation experience complete pain relief just by getting off the dangerous and harmful chemicals that are added to so many of our foods.  Cutting back will not help.  You’ve got to get completely off these mass marketed toxins.

EMPHASIZE in Your Diet

·    Raw butter and cream: 4 TBS/per day - these unheated fats are the carriers of warmth in the world of food and can protect us against the cold, dry stiffness of osteoarthritis. Butterfat contains a nutrient known as the anti-stiffness factor. Animal studies found that virtually any animal can be made arthritic by feeding it a low-fat diet, which includes skim and low-fat milk products. The animals’ arthritis was reversed by feeding them fresh, raw (un-pasteurized) cream or butter.  Raw butter is recommended for those with osteoarthritis, however, those with Rheumatoid arthritis just need butter (pasteurized is okay).  Think: low-fat equals pain.  Eating healthy fats/oils will lubricate your joints, relieving pain.

·    Lacto-fermented vegetables (such as sauerkraut and kim-chi) have been shown to provide the enzymes that help the body metabolize and process the anti-stiffness factor. Sauerkraut is easy to make or can be purchased in the refrigerated section of the health food store.

·            Organic Eggs - a rich source of nutrients that help to heal and rebuild the tissues.

·    Bone Broths - beef or chicken bones/cartilage that is simmered for 6 to 24 hours will be rich in factors that nourish and repair the cartilage in your joints. Include this as a daily ingredient in your soups, stews and sauces.

·    Sea Salt should be used liberally.  There are many brands that are good, just make sure that it is pure sea salt that has not been refined or processed.

Finally, it is important that we move our bodies.  Surprisingly, more damaging to the body than hard work is inactivity.  An active lifestyle that includes hard work and hard play is much less damaging than a sedentary, careful life.  I liken it to a door hinge.  The hinge that is constantly in use, even though it may require occasional maintenance or oil, will last much longer than the hinge that rusts and tightens due to lack of use.  So as follows are a few suggestions for you to consider.

THERAPEUTICS

Chiropractic -an adjustment by a skilled chiropractor can provide significant relief as you nourish your joints back to health. Just as the tire on a misaligned or unbalanced car will wear out faster than it should, so also will your spine experience more pressure and wear if your back is out of alignment. A skilled chiropractor can find even subtle imbalances and set things right, relieving the pain and pressure.

Massage therapy - a skilled massage therapist can not only soothe aching muscles associated with joint pain but help to increase the circulation, speeding up the healing process.  Remember, muscles move bones and bones can pinch nerves.  Relax and balance the muscles and you will feel oh so much better.  In addition, there are great psychological benefits of a good massage to calm the troubled mind.

Yoga – stretching combined with breathing.  Begin a daily practice and experience the benefits of strength and flexibility enjoyed by so many of the elderly throughout the world.

Castor Oil packs/compress - This remedy for many is the first choice for pain and stiffness of both types of arthritis. Castor oil supplies stimulating warmth to the cold, over-mineralized (calcium deposits) joints of the osteoarthritis sufferer, but also has an anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effect for the swollen joints of the rheumatoid/inflammatory arthritis sufferer. Simply saturate a cloth with castor oil, place on the painful joint or area and warm with a heating pad for 60 to 90 minutes.  This can be done every other day.

Reprint of an article by Kyle D. Christensen, D.C, N.D., M.H. / Western Botanicals

The Truth about High Blood Pressure

Blood vessels come in two types – Arteries and Veins.  The root of the word artery comes from the Greek word “Ares” the God of war also known as Mars.  The root of the word vein comes from the Goddess and planet Venus, also known as Aphrodite.  Mars/Ares is the symbol of all that is aggressive, active and warlike. Venus/Aphrodite is the nurturer, the giver of the harvest and the feminine forces.  This symbolic balance of masculine and feminine, active and passive, giver and receiver are embodied within the blood flow of our arteries and veins.  The blood is actively pumped out to the body through the arteries, delivering oxygen and other nutrients to the cells.  The blood returns passively back to the heart through the veins.

High blood pressure often occurs when the fight-or-flight response of the sympathetic nervous system becomes excessive in the arteries or when the masculine qualities of aggressiveness, domination and anger become too strong and begin to overwhelm the more feminine and nurturing aspects of our nature.  We all know that neither force is bad, except when one over-powers the other.  The masculine and feminine should work together for proper balance and health. Arteries and veins are designed to nourish and support each other.  When the forceful tendencies of Ares/Mars wins outs, hypertension or high blood pressure can result, which is typically a male disease.  When the passive nature and impulses of Venus/Aphrodite dominate, the result is often sluggish venous circulation resulting the swollen, congested, painful condition of varicose veins. This is more typically seen in women. 

Botticelli’s painting of Venus standing on a clamshell as she arrives at the isle of Crete is full of hidden symbolism.  Crete was the ancient world’s richest supplier of the mineral copper.  Shellfish are also a naturally high source of dietary copper.  The mineral copper as found in foods such as shellfish and herbs such as chamomile has long been valued to release tension and spasms in the central nervous system or counteract the nature of Mars (aggression, anger, etc.).  Balancing the body by providing the proper nutritional building blocks will also work on stabilizing mental and emotional imbalances. This method can also safely stabilize the blood pressure into a healthy range. 

Another consideration you should be aware of is that medically established normal ranges for blood pressure as well as cholesterol are continuing to drop.  Years ago when I was in chiropractic school (and this goes for medical schools as well), acceptable blood pressure was considered 140/90 or 100 plus the persons age over 90.  This means that a person who is 65 years old would acceptably have blood pressure of 165/90.  It is normal and even considered healthy that your blood pressure will rise naturally and gradually, as you get older.  Today’s blood pressure standards have lowered to 120/70 in some doctor’s offices and in my opinion far too many people are put on to medications which create undesirable side effects, (such as erectile dysfunction in men, which has spurned the phenomenal sale of drugs like Viagra).  Is it just me or does it seem like many people are taking drugs or medications to offset the side effects created by another drug?

Most people diagnosed with high blood pressure are put on a low-salt, low-fat diet.  This may produce good results initially, however lower blood pressure will not be sustained by following this type of diet, which is not satisfying and difficult to stay on.  There has been a good deal of talk in the media lately regarding the dangers of trans-fats and hydrogenated fats.  Science has finally validated what many of us have been preaching for years, namely that when science and industry alters a food it is made less healthy.  Natural sources of fat (animals) and natural oils (olive and coconut) have really received a lot of bad press over the past 40 to 50 years and now we have found that nature has been right on all along.  The fat that is found in naturally raised animals (that means feeding them the food they were designed to eat – grass for cattle, bugs and grass with limited grain for chickens, no drugs, hormones, chemicals, etc.) is in fact very healthy and important for the development and maintenance of your brain, nervous system and much much more.  And for the fat fearing consumer, the irony is that these natural, healthy sources of fat will help you to lose weight by triggering the centers in your brain that tell you to stop eating because you are full.  By eating low-fat diet foods or foods with non-natural fats, the brain does not recognize these foreign substances (I don’t even want to call them foods) and so the tendency is to overeat. 

Recommendations to obtain and maintain healthy blood pressure

Avoid

Forget the typical high blood pressure diet that recommends low-salt, low-fat, however you must avoid processed food especially staying away from hydrogenated and trans fats and commercial salt.

Salt Intake

Salt and the minerals it contains are important for good digestion, we recommend avoiding processed salt and using liberally Celtic sea salt.  Here is the rationale.  Commercially processed salt is refined so that it is primarily the minerals sodium and chloride.  Iodine is often added.  When our bodies are in need of minerals, a mechanism is triggered in the brain that tells you “I want something salty”.  What the body is asking for is NOT only sodium and chloride, but it is usually asking for the full range of mineral salts that are depleted during normal metabolism.  Notice the salty taste of your sweat or tears.  That salt contains the exact mineral balance that is found in the salt of the ocean or sea.  When you lose salt from your body, it makes sense to replenish the body with the same minerals in the same ratios that they occur in nature.  When you take in to your body commercially processed salt, you create an imbalance of the minerals your body needs, too much sodium, too much chloride, not enough potassium, magnesium, etc.  So how does your body ask for more potassium?  That’s right, “give me something salty to eat”.  And by eating processed salt, the imbalance becomes greater.  Medical tests will confirm that you have way too much sodium, so you better lay off the salt.  When in reality, you may have too much sodium, but what they don’t check for is that you are severely depleted of the other mineral.  I have had many patients lower and stabilize their high blood pressure simply by switching and using Celtic sea salt (and don’t be shy about using as much as your body asks for).

Diet

Plenty of appropriate fats from natural sources such as healthy naturally raised animals

Beef, lamb and chicken – must be grass-fed, no antibiotics, no hormones – 

avoid grocery store discount varieties

Coconut oil, virgin olive oil, butter and cream from grass-fed cattle (cattle that are fed a diet of grain and not their natural diet of grass have higher omega-6 fats and lower omega-3 fats.  The omega-3 fats are the good ones we want to have more of, which are high in GRASS-fed beef and dairy products).

Bone Broths – simmer beef or chicken bones for 12 – 24 hours to release the minerals for rich broths that are oh so healthy and taste amazing.

Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, lettuces (eat many wonderful varieties), etc.

Fruits and Vegetables – Raw and organic and abundant 

Liver and Shellfish – once per week is ideal for the circulation healthy nutrients in these meats.

Lacto-fermented beverages – generally these are homemade – quite easy to make once you do it a couple of times.  They are so healthy providing abundant probiotics (the good bacteria), will help to hydrate your cells, particularly if you suffer from edema or swelling.  Do a web search on lacto-fermented beverages.  My family enjoys delicious homemade ginger-ale and Root beers that taste wonderful and are very healthy.

Herbal supplement are also an important part of balancing blood pressure. 

Copper-containing Chamomile flower extract can be taken 1 to 2 teaspoons per day.

Western Botanicals’ Vascular Support Formula is also recommended 2 dropperfuls 3X daily

Kidney-Bladder Formula and/or Kidney-Bladder Tea should be used daily for edema or swelling –

3 capsules twice daily or 3 – 4 cups of tea daily.  This is a pleasant tasting tea.

Hawthorn Berry Syrup, Cardio Plus or Heart Formula should be considered by those who also have heart concerns.  Take as directed.

The natural supplement Chondroitin Sulfate has been shown to protect the heart and greatly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Earth’s Nutrition or Bountiful Blend are important supplements that should be taken to ensure that you are getting a well balanced whole-food source of your vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients.  Take once or twice daily. 

For Varicose veins we have seen phenomenal success with the herb Horse Chestnut Extract.  However don’t expect fast results.  You need to commit to 2 dropperfuls twice daily for at least a full year.

Often the person with high blood pressure has become toxic and it is necessary to go through our 4-week Cleansing Programs.  Begin with the Colon Cleanse Program – this program will take two weeks.  Follow with the Liver-Gallbladder Flush for 7 days, then the Kidney-Bladder Flush for 7 days.  Finally, the Blood Detox Formula is taken 1 to 2 capsules twice daily for a couple of weeks.  While this gentle cleaning program takes a little effort for a short time, the benefits, the mental clarity and the weight loss are well worth it.  The programs do not require that you fast or adopt a diet other than a healthy whole food diet as described above.

 Exercise should be of a nature that is non-competitive, relaxing and inspiring such as yoga or tai chi that incorporates movement with breathing.

Meditation or introspection exercises has proven to be very beneficial.  If you are someone with firm convictions or beliefs, take an issue that you are passionate about and argue verbally or in writing for the other side.  This will increase your flexibility, teach you that the truth does not lie in absolutes and help you to live more easily with opposites.

Remember that high blood pressure is a symptom that things in your life are out of balance.  By following recommendations that will create balance and harmony, this symptom will no longer be necessary.  While managing symptoms through medications is at times necessary, the long term consequences of manipulating the symptom, while continuing in the lifestyle that caused the symptom will not lead you down the path of health.

Blessings of love and gratitude,

Kyle D. Christensen, DC, ND, MH

Kidney Bladder Flush

The kidneys are another important elimination channel.  Many nitrogen containing waste products, such as ammonia and urea are excreted in the urine.  The liver transforms any fat-soluble toxins into water soluble compounds that can then be eliminated through the kidneys.  This Kidney-Bladder Flush is disinfecting and is very useful for urinary tract infections, often working within a day or two when strong drugs have failed.

            It is very important that the bowels have been cleansed and are moving before you begin any flush.  We recommend following the Colon Cleansing Program prior to either the Kidney or the Liver Flush.  Use enough Colon Cleanse ™ Formula while doing either flush so that you are having 2 to 3 normal bowel movements per day.  As the name implies, a flush will wash and cleanse the tissues of the body, so expect that you’ll make frequent trips to the bathroom.  The herbs in this and all of the other cleansing programs not only help to eliminate waste and toxins from the body but also help to build and strengthen the individual organs to help them function more efficiently.

            We recommend this flush every three to four months or as needed.  Whether you have a kidney condition or not, this kidney cleansing routine will be beneficial.  Of course, if you have edema (swelling), stones, recurrent urinary tract infections or any kidney/bladder concerns this program is a must.  As with any detoxifying routine, avoid beginning if you are pregnant or nursing   If you suffer from kidney stones, we recommend the Stone dissolve Program.

Kidney Flush Program

Begin each morning with the following drink:

In a blender mix the following:

Juice of one lemon and one lime

16 to 32 ounces of distilled water

A pinch of cayenne pepper (this is the best circulation enhancing herb)

Optional - pure maple syrup (just a little) to taste

• Make six to eight cups of the Kidney/Bladder Tea.  You may sweeten with pure maple syrup or honey.  Drink all of this tea each day.  Make the tea as per the directions on the bag.

• Use the Kidney/Bladder Formula 2 to 4 dropperfuls 3 or 4 times during the day.  You may add this tincture to your tea as you drink it.

·            Continue eating a healthy diet consisting of organic foods including:  fresh vegetables, fruit, raw milk, pasture-fed beef, lamb, poultry and eggs, traditional lacto-fermented foods and properly prepared whole grains.  All of your food must be free from harmful chemicals and residues.  For more information on traditional health building diet go to www.westonaprice.org.

Follow this program for 7 to 10 consecutive days.

Liver Gallbladder Flush

The liver is responsible for handling most of our energy needs.  It takes raw building blocks from food and breaks it down into basic nutritional components.  The liver creates and stores sugars for both immediate and long-term energy use.  If the liver is congested or diseased it will not receive or send out enough blood sugar and your energy will drop. Chronic lack of energy, especially after meals, could be the result of a sluggish liver.

            The liver is also vital in detoxifying and neutralizing toxins within the body, particularly as nutrients are absorbed from the digestive tract.  Because our environment is full of stressful chemicals, such as food additives, preservatives, pesticides, herbicides, etc., it is vital that we have a healthy functioning liver.  A periodic Liver Flush, in addition to a healthy lifestyle can greatly benefit our overall health.

            We strongly recommend doing the Colon Cleanse Program before beginning the liver flush.  As the name implies, a flush will wash and cleanse the tissues of the body, so expect that you’ll make frequent trips to the bathroom.  The herbs in this cleansing program not only help to eliminate waste and toxins from the liver and gallbladder but also help to build and strengthen these organs to help them function more efficiently. This is a one week program designed to flush, cleanse and strengthen the liver and gallbladder.  The program consists of 3 parts, the morning drink, the tea and the herbal extract.  Avoid this program if pregnant or nursing.

The Liver Flush Program

Begin each morning with the following drink:

In a blender mix the following:

8 ounces of organic orange, apple or grape juice.

8 ounces of distilled water

1 to 4 cloves of fresh garlic

1 to 4 Tablespoons of organic extra virgin olive oil.

1 small (1/4 to 1”) piece of fresh ginger root.

*begin by blending garlic & ginger in a small amount of the liquid to thoroughly macerate before adding the rest of the ingredients. (this will eliminate “chunks”)

·      Make six to eight cups of the Liver Detox Tea.  You may sweeten with pure maple syrup, raw honey or stevia.  Drink all of this tea each day.  Make the tea as per the directions on the bag.

·    Use Western Botanicalsä Liver-Gallbladder Formula 2 to 4 dropperfuls 3 or 4 times during the day.  You may add this tincture to your tea as you drink it.

·    Do a castor oil fomentation over the liver for 90 minutes warming with a heating pad every other day.  This will help to pull toxicity from the liver and assist with the detox process.

·      Continue eating a healthy diet consisting of organic foods including:  fresh vegetables, fruit, raw milk, pasture-fed beef, lamb, poultry and eggs, traditional lacto-fermented foods and properly prepared whole grains.  All of your food must be free from harmful chemicals and residues.  For more information on traditional health building diet go to www.westonaprice.org.

Follow this program for 7 to 10 consecutive days.

Colon Cleanse Program

Part 1 - Colon Cleanse™ for constipation

This formula is used to cleanse, heal and strengthen the entire digestive tract.  Colon Cleanse™ stimulates the peristaltic action (the intestinal muscular movement) of the colon and over time strengthens the muscles of the large intestines.  Colon Cleanse™ helps to  disinfect, soothe and heal the mucous membrane lining of the entire digestive system.  Colon Cleanse™ aids in digestion, relieves gas, cramps and cleanses the gallbladder and bile ducts, destroying candida albicans overgrowth and parasites, promoting a healthy intestinal flora.

Begin the use of Colon Cleanse™ with 1 capsule during the evening meal (some prefer breakfast).  This formula works best when taken with food.  The following morning you should notice an increase in your bowel action and in the amount of fecal matter you eliminate.  The consistency should also be softer.  If there is not a noticeable change in bowel behavior, increase the dosage by one capsule each day until a noticeable change occurs. A bowel movement corresponding with each meal (2 to 3 per day) is considered healthy bowel function.

Part 2 -Colon Detox™

This formula is used to cleanse, purify and detoxify the colon, bowels and intestines.  Colon Detox™ soothes and strengthens the entire intestinal tract.  Colon Detox™ is a strong purifier and intestinal vacuum, helping to draw out old fecal matter from the walls of the colon and out from any bowel pockets.  Colon Detox™ is uniquely formulated to soften old fecal matter for easy elimination.  It aids in the removal of poisons, toxins, parasites and heavy metals.  It is also used as a remedy for intestinal inflammation such as diverticulitis, colitis or irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea or food poisoning.

 

Colon Detox™ can be used in powdered or capsule form.  For an intensive colon cleansing (recommended 2 to 4 times yearly, depending on how good or bad your diet is), take Colon Detox™ as directed - 1 heaping teaspoon or 12 capsules - 5 times daily.  It is important to take with plenty of water and increase your Colon Cleanse™ capsules by one to assure 2 to 3 normal bowel movements per day. Taken without sufficient water can be constipating.  Take between meals on an empty stomach.  Follow this regiment for five or six days.

Primary Products:                   Colon Cleanse 

  (may be substituted with Happy Colon, Turkey Rhubarb Formula or Colon Cleanse Syrup for Children) 

and Colon Detox

Supporting Products:              Earth’s Nutrition OR Bountiful Blend – taken 1-2 times daily. Take Earth’s Nutrition in juice and Bountiful Blend in water.

Probiotics – this can be taken as a supplement such as acidophilus or eat some yogurt, kefir, kombucha or fresh sauerkraut each day.  Get the good bacteria from many different sources.

Digestive Enzymes – take with each meal or whenever you experience any digestive distress.  Many use enzymes in place of antacids. 

Constipation: A National Epidemic

Let’s face it.  This is a subject we just don’t talk about. And as a result far too many just don’t know what normal healthy bowel habits should be.  Colon cancer is the #3 cancer in America behind breast and prostate cancers.  Diseases of the colon are largely preventable.  But after years of retaining toxicity within the bowel rather than eliminating it daily, poor diet and sedentary lifestyle, the senario for disease and illness is set.  So here is the straight scoop on keeping your colon healthy.

Definition/Diagnosis:  Signs of an Unclean Colon - Gas, flatulence, foul breath, bad body odor, acne, digestive problems, infections of the kidney, prostate, bladder, liver and /or gallbladder, excess mucus in the head, lungs, and /or throat, chronic sickness with all types of disorders.  Begin to be concerned if the person hasn’t had a bowel movement for 3 days.  If the five-day mark is approaching, they have become a patient and herbal laxatives are necessary.  Don’t let it get this far.  Our bowels should be moving 2 to 3 times daily. 

Prevention: Prevention is the best medicine. Eat a proper diet,  whole foods with plenty of fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. Eat whole grains.  Chew your food thoroughly.  Eat slowly.  Eat only organic grass-fed red meat and poultry in moderation.  Eat fish a couple times per week.  Drink plenty of water. Eating meals that contain both hot and cold foods get the digestive juices flowing and help the bowels to move. Dehydration is probably the most common cause of constipation.  Exercise daily.  Exercise will help to strengthen and tone the digestive tract.  Do not resist “the call”.  Go to the bathroom when you need to.  Tobacco, caffeine and foods high in refined sugar have a paralyzing effect on the colon and encourage constipation.  Coffee also destroys the “friendly bacteria” in the large intestine.  Alcohol tends to produce constipation and increased intestinal mucus.  Juices such as prune juice are often beneficial to help the lower bowel.  Do not use a laxative that is an irritant either medicinal or herbal.  Rather use an herbal bowel tonic, such as Colon Cleanse™.  Periodic cleansing of your colon with Colon Detox™ is another way to insure good colon health.

Treatment: The object is to catch constipation early enough that you do not have to undergo heroic efforts.  Begin with a good herbal laxative and drink plenty of water or herbal tea.  Often a change in the diet is enough.  Rarely are enemas necessary and even less likely is the use of a latex glove and manually removing the impacted feces.    When the colon is cleansed, many different disorders and ailments clear up on their own as the body can begin functioning the way it was designed to.

If there is a fever involved drink plenty of yarrow, peppermint, red raspberry leaf or catnip tea (8 to 16 cups in 24 hours).  Take Colon Cleanse beginning with one capsule per day (take with a meal) and increasing the dosage each day until you are having 2-3 bowel movements daily. Using Colon Detox can cleanse the bowel of impurities and toxicity.  A very good bowel cleansing program can be found using Colon Detox in conjunction with Colon Cleanse, as described earlier.

Many are prone to constipation because they have inherited a weak and sluggish bowel.  Having infrequent bowel movements may seem normal.  However, bowels that move less frequently than every day are at risk for many bowel/colon problems, which can range from hemorrhoids and diverticulitis to colon cancer (currently the #3 cancer in America).  If you change your diet and begin eating whole natural foods, which are naturally high in fiber and take our Bowel Tonic – Colon Cleanse, you can expect to not only have more energy but also greatly reduce your risk of colon disease.  As your colon begins to heal and strengthen in tone, you will require less and less of the herbal formula.  Many who require 3 to 5 capsules at first, need less and less through the months and years as they improve their health.  It is not unusually to need the product for 2 or 3 years to completely heal and strengthen your bowel.  Remember, natural healing is a process and building healthy tissue takes time.

Adrenal Fatigue

Tired of Being Tired?!

How long has it been since you have gotten up in the morning feeling refreshed and ready to take on the challenges of a new day?  For most of us, this is the norm, but for some fatigue that is not relieved by sleep and dragging through the day is their reality.  Adrenal fatigue results when the adrenal glands become tired and worn out after intense or prolonged stress.  We have all heard of adrenaline or have experienced an ‘adrenal rush’.  This is a basic or primary response of the body to help us deal with stress.  The adrenal response is referred to as ‘the fight or flight’ response.   When there is real physical danger, a strong sympathetic nervous system response is triggered or initiated by the adrenal glands.  These small triangular cap-shaped glands (weighing less than a grape) sit atop each kidney secrete hormones such as cortisol into the bloodstream.  Changes in chemistry and physiology occur instantaneously causing the heart rate to increase, blood flow increases to your arms and legs (so that you can engage in battle or run away), pupils dilate increasing your visual focus, mental acuity sharpens, and the liver releases sugar to be burned as energy.  The whole body sharpens and focuses to deal with the stress or conflict at hand.  This is a powerful and necessary physiologic response designed to ensure our survival.

            However, we are not designed to cope with intense stress continually.  Imagine for a moment that you are walking through the forest.  Suddenly you catch a glimpse of a mountain lion.  Soon you realize that you are being stalked.  You go into a full blown sympathetic adrenaline response.  You raise your pack above your head (making you looker larger than you are) and begin shouting aggressive threatening tones as you carefully make it back to your car.  Once you are safe, your heart begins to settle down, but you are exhausted and justifiably so.  You notice something interesting though.  As you recount your adventure to friends, you find your heart again begins to pound and the adrenaline begins to flow.  Retelling your tale is exhausting.  While few of us experience threatening episodes with mountain lions, we do experience stress.  Whether the stress is a real physical danger, a perceived threat or something imagined, the body responds the same.  You may be working with a supervisor or with deadlines that your body interprets the same as physical danger.  Couple your daily stress with inadequate sleep, a poor diet and then a few episodes of intense or prolonged stress or an illness and your adrenal glands can become fatigued or exhausted.  The paramount symptom is fatigue that is not relieved by sleep.  You may look and act relatively normal with Adrenal Fatigue, yet you live with a general sense of unwellness, tiredness or ‘gray’ feelings.  People suffering from Adrenal Fatigue often have to use coffee, colas and other stimulants to get going in the morning and to prop themselves up during the day. 

            Adrenal fatigue can wreak havoc with your life.  Adrenal Fatigue can lead to conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Fibromyalgia but often begins as a growing sense of tiredness or lack of enthusiasm for life.  With each increment of reduction in adrenal function, every organ and system in your body is more profoundly affected.  Changes occur in your carbohydrates, proteins and fat metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, heart and cardiovascular system, and even your sex drive.  Your body does its best to make up for under-functioning adrenal glands, but it does so at a price. 

The main purpose of the adrenal glands is to enable your body to deal with stress from every possible source, ranging from injury and disease to work and relationship problems.  These glands largely determine the energy of your body’s responses to every change in your internal or external environment.  Whether they signal attack, retreat or surrender, every cell responds accordingly, and you feel the results.  It is through the actions of the adrenal hormones that your body is able to mobilize its resources to escape or fight off danger (stress) and survive.  In a more primitive society, that could mean being able to run away quickly, fight or pursue an enemy or game, endure long periods of physical challenge and deprivation.  In modern society, these same responses are triggered by such circumstances such as a difficult boss, air pollution, family quarrels, financial problems, too little sleep, illness or overindulgence in or sensitivities to food or drugs. 

If your adrenal function is low, your body cannot respond and adapt properly to these stresses, which leads to a variety of physical and psychological health problems.  And sadly our current system of medical healthcare is designed more to treat and manage symptoms, rather than rebuild and correct the underlying problems.  Adrenal fatigue is often at the beginning of a domino effect of health issues and leads to hypothyroidism, weight gain, constipation and digestive problems, and chronic candida yeast infections

            The adrenal glands secrete many hormones that affect how we use carbohydrates, fats and proteins in our diet.  Often the person with adrenal fatigue will store fat rather than burn it.  Blood sugar regulation will be off resulting in hypoglycemia.  Heart and digestive problems can result from low adrenal hormone output.  The adrenal glands become the primary source of sex hormones after mid-life in men and women, as such, adrenal fatigue often results in a diminished sex drive.  Weight gain and a under active thyroid are very often the secondary result of Adrenal Fatigue.

Signs of Adrenal Fatigue

·    Fatigue that is not relieved by sleep

·   Tired for no reason

·   Trouble getting up in the morning even when you go to bed at a reasonable hour.

·    Feeling rundown or overwhelmed

·   Can’t bounce back from stress or illness

·   Crave salty and sweet snacks

·   Need coffee, cola, sweets or salty snacks to get moving or keep going

·   Trouble sleeping

·   Feeling best only after 6 PM

·      Oscillating Pupil – shine a flashlight in your eye (in a mirror).  The pupil should constrict.  If it constricts but then dilates (while the light is still in the eye).  Constricts – dilates – constricts – dilates.  This is a sign of adrenal fatigue.

• Blood pressure dropping slightly when compared from sitting to standing.  Take it sitting and then immediately as you stand (don’t remove the cuff). This is why you may get dizzy or lightheaded if to stand up quickly.

Adrenal Fatigue affects 80% of Americans at some point in their lives.  Sometimes it is temporary and lasts only a few days.  At other times it can be debilitating and last for years.  The key to recovery is to focus on supporting, strengthening and rebuilding the body and the adrenal glands rather than further stimulating the body and trying to manage your symptoms.  The good news is that by supporting and rebuilding, we can dramatically improve your tiredness and fatigue as you are restored to health.

Recommendations for Adrenal Recovery

Diet/Nutrition: 

Avoid:            All processed foods. – Foods with chemical sounding names on the label

                        Foods high is carbohydrates (sweets, treats  - anything with white sugar or white flour)

                        Foods containing hydrogenated fats – avoid soy oil, canola oil and any other processed oil.

                        Caffeine (coffee, black tea, cocoa, chocolate, soft drinks)

Emphasize:    Fresh and fermented vegetables and fruits

                        Raw local honey

                        Celtic Sea Salt

                        Organic healthy meats and Fish

                        Organic dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese) – preferably fermented like yogurt or kefir

                        Organic butter and cream – These healthy fats are necessary for rebuilding adrenal function

                        Organic free-range eggs

Your diet must be nutrient dense and free from toxins and impurities.  Your weight will stabilize by eating nutrient dense fats such as butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and organic eggs.  Always purchase the best quality organic foods from local sources, if you can.  This is the time to nourish your body and stay off of deprivation, nutrient restrictive diets.  Now is not the time to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet.

Supplements:

o      Earth Nutrition by Western Botanicals – 1 or 2 scoops daily – as a whole food supplement.  We prefer Earth Nutrition over our Bountiful Blend because it is very high in the B-vitamins because of the nutritional yeast

o      Super Adrenal Support by Western Botanicals – 1 dropperful 2 to 4 times daily or as need when you feel a sudden drop in energy.  – This combination of herbs will help to rebuild your adrenal glands as well as provide you with energy when you need it

o      Cod Liver, Krill or Salmon Oil–For Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Vitamins A, D & E – Carlson Norwegian Cod Liver Oil is the best in both taste and quality.

o      Nature’s ‘C’ Complex by Western Botanicals – This is a whole food herbal vitamin C complex that contains everything nature intended in vitamin C, not just ascorbic acid or one of its derivatives.

o      Celtic Sea Salt – one good healthy pinch in water daily for mineral/electrolyte support

o      Glandular Adrenal Supplement – take 6 tablets daily divided into 2 or 3 doses.  This will provide your adrenal glands with real adrenal tissue to use to rebuild your own adrenals.  We like using Drenatrophin PMG by Standard Process.

Support for Associated Conditions that are often secondary to Adrenal Fatigue:

Hypothyroidism (under active Thyroid gland)

Thyroid Formula by Western Botanicals – if you have symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland.

Thyroid Glandular -Thytrophin PMG by Standard Process is a good choice.  Take 1-2 tablets

3 times daily.

Constipation               

Colon Cleanse™- by Western Botanicals – if you are not having 2 to 3 bowel movements each day.  You cannot get well and stay constipated.

Candida/Yeast Infection

Oregano oil – 3 to 4 drops under the tongue twice daily.  You must use an infused oregano oil, NOT an essential oil.  This will treat any kind of fungal or yeast infection from the inside out.

Probiotics – We recommend getting the good bacteria into your gut by eating yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, fermented vegetables, sourdough as well as through probiotic supplements.

Pau d’arco tea – drink 2 to 3 cups daily of this anti-fungal immune boosting tea

Coconut oil – strongly anti-fungal can be taken internally, 1 Tbs. 4 times daily.  You may use coconut oil in cooking, baking or mixed with warm water. And NO, coconut oil will not make you fat.  In fact, many use coconut oil as the key to their weight loss plan.  See Dr. Mary Enig’s book, Eat Fat, Lose Fat.

Olive Leaf capsules – 2 capsules three times daily

Exercise:  you must exercise – walk or ride a bike but never to exhaustion.  You should always feel like you could have done more.  Stretching and yoga are also important as well as deep breathing exercises.

Meditation:  This must be a time for reflection and introspection.  Make long term plans and goals.  Live according to your inner voice.  Let your spirit be your guide. Listen to and obey your conscience.

           

Adrenal Fatigue is a condition that often is months or years in the making, and as such usually takes at least two to six months to fully recover.  I often have patients who perk up within a couple of weeks but then crash back down with fatigue when they discontinue their supplements.  Please understand that you will be feeling a lot better before you are completely recovered.  Continue taking the supplements.  Continue with a healthy nourishing diet. An excellent cookbook you may want to pick up is Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon.               

 

This information is for educational purposes only.  It is not intended to diagnose, treat or prescribe.  We strongly recommend consultation with a competent health care provider before you begin any new treatment program or alter an existing treatment program.

Western Botanicals Inc.

768 East 1950 North

Spanish Fork, UT  84660

800-651-4372

Reprint of an article by Kyle D. Christensen, D.C, N.D., M.H.

Up for a Challenge?

In our over saturated age of information, it can be difficult discerning what is truth and what is marketing. Most of us would agree that too many big-businesses-for-profit are not opposed to  distorting the truth in order to increase sales, profits or political influence. This has created an increased level of skepticism and mistrust among those of us exposed to all of this information and marketing. We can no longer even trust “science” because of who may be funding various studies for their own purposes.

It is my personal conviction that our bodies are not as defective as many in mainstream medicine would have us believe. In fact, I believe it is a tribute to the strength and resilience of the human body that it can withstand the constant barrage of toxic assaults from food, water, air and drugs as well as it does before we begin to break down with disease and health problems. So many in our culture are overfed, under-rested, over-medicated, and sedentary. Is it any wonder that chronic health problems continue to increase? And while far too many are experiencing declining health, there are numerous examples of those who suffered from obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis and heart disease, who do nothing but change their diet (eating only natural whole foods) and exercise (4 to 5 times per week of aerobics and strength training) to fully regain their health, vitality and love for life. Again the resilience of the human body can be astounding. 

Being healthy in today’s world requires effort. You cannot live as others do and expect to be healthy. It is not enough to exercise occasionally and eat “pretty good”. We must also work to counteract the cocktails of chemicals that enter our bodies through air, water, food and drugs. 

Many people take so many drugs these days. Medications can be such a slippery slope once you start on it. Drug A causes side effect B, for which drug C is given, causing side effects D and E. So another drug is prescribed and so on. Of course, the real solution for the original problem was not to mask the symptom with a drug but to resolve the underlying cause, which is typically lifestyle related.  

The Challenge

There are so many drugs prescribed today that we can’t go over even a fraction of them. But I challenge you to do some homework on whatever you have been prescribed. See if you are experiencing any side effects or symptoms that are listed from taking the drug. Take a look at our webpage (www.westernbotanicals.com) or give us a call (1-800-651-HERB) to see what natural treatments may be able to benefit you. Decide whether you are willing to continue your current course or whether you’ve had enough and are ready to make some changes toward better health.

I promise you that resolving the underlying cause of health issues is much more satisfying than medicating the symptoms. While obtaining health really is simple, it definitely is not easy. That is until you have incorporated healthy lifestyle habits. Such as eating whole natural foods (and strongly avoiding chemical-laden, processed foods and drinks), enjoying a physically active life – where you don’t think in terms of “getting some exercise” but rather enjoying activities that require a strong fit healthy body such as hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, cycling. Enjoy a healthy fit body because it is fun and adventurous. 

As your perspective and lifestyle begins to shift, doors and opportunities will open for you. 

Blessings of a health,

Dr. Kyle Christensen

Western Botanicals, Inc.

January 2011