|
| |
PLEASE READ THIS
If
you have a major health condition, or are taking medications, please consult
with a qualified health professional before trying any of these supplements.
Acne Rosacea
(Adult Acne; Rosacea)
OVERVIEW
Acne rosacea is an inflammatory disorder affecting the skin of the
cheeks, nose, and forehead. It appears as reddened areas with pimples,
knobby bumps on the nose (rhinophyma), and thin red lines caused by enlarged
blood vessels. The facial skin is often very dry. Rosacea develops slowly,
and usually worsens gradually over time. Fair-skinned people, especially
those who blush easier than the average person, are more susceptible. The
cause of rosacea is unknown, but a variety of foods and conditions can
aggravate it, including consumption of hot liquids, spicy foods, or alcohol;
exposure to extremes of heat and cold; exposure to sunlight; skin mites; and
stress.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes topical antibiotic preparations. Other
recommendations include using natural makeup and facial cleansers without
fragrances and heavy oils, and avoiding astringents. For women, a natural
progesterone cream might help. Always use a sunscreen when outdoors.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Acne Vulgaris
OVERVIEW
Acne vulgaris is a common form of acne seen in teenagers and young
adults, affecting about 80% in some form. Males are affected more often, but
females have more severe and more prolonged cases. Acne is probably caused
by male sex hormones increasing oil production in the sebaceous glands.
Bacteria, which live around the hair root, become more active and pimples
are formed. Factors that can cause an outbreak include cosmetics, stress,
steroids and other drugs, oral contraceptives, mechanical skin irritants,
and climate.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes taking antibiotics or oral
contraceptives. Some over-the-counter acne preparations work by drying up
skin oil, as well as killing surface bacteria. Avoid oil-based skin care
products, which can aggravate acne. Wash skin gently with unscented soap,
and do not scrub. Do not pick or pop the pimples. Expose skin to moderate
sunlight, but not long enough to get a sunburn.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Aging
OVERVIEW
Aging is the degenerative process of growing old. It is caused in part by
a failure of body cells or organs to work normally, or the decreased ability
to make new cells to replace those that are dead or defective. While aging
is a natural process, it may be accelerated through infection, poor
nutrition, contact with health hazards, or genetic problems.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Anti-aging nutraceuticals perform one or more of the following functions:
(1) stimulate or supplement production of enzymes and hormones; (2) are
antioxidants that protect against the damage caused by free radicals; (3)
have anticancer properties; (4) protect against heart-related diseases; (5)
help with memory loss; (6) reduce inflammation; (7) increase circulation;
(8) reduce the damaging effects of diabetes; (9) increase energy production
(mitochondrial function); (10) support immune function; or (11) protect the
various organ systems (eyes, kidneys, liver, etc.). There are too many
nutraceuticals to list, but some to consider are listed above. Other
recommendations include stopping smoking, avoiding excessive exposure to the
sun, exercising regularly, eating plenty of organic fresh fruits (especially
berries) and vegetables, not overeating, and getting at least eight hours of
sleep every night. Aging cannot be stopped, but it can be slowed down.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Alcoholism
OVERVIEW
Alcoholism is characterized by an extreme dependence on alcohol, causing
behaviors that are harmful to the individual and others. The cause of
alcoholism varies, and may be a combination of factors, including genetics,
family history, emotional disorders, and social environment. It is a
long-term illness that starts slowly and may occur at any age. Medical
problems caused by alcoholism include mental changes, damage to the liver
(cirrhosis), nervous system disorders, cancer, diabetes, gastritis, kidney
disease, and heart problems.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatment usually includes attending a support program, and possibly
taking one or more medications. Exercise regularly. Some acupuncture
treatments may reduce the craving for alcohol. Some supplements reduce the
craving for alcohol, some facilitate withdrawal, and some protect the liver.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Allergies
(Allergic Rhinitis; Hay Fever)
OVERVIEW
Allergies are a reaction to generally harmless antigens, including
various foods, animal dander, cigarette smoke, house dust, and flower and
tree pollens. Allergies can be classified as inhalant (breathed in) or
ingested (a food eaten). Common symptoms include lung congestion, allergic
eye swelling, fluid buildup, fever, itching, and intestinal complaints.
Nasal irritation (allergic rhinitis), which is caused by allergens in the
air, affects mostly young children and adolescents, but can occur in all age
groups. Severe allergic reactions, called anaphylactic shock, can cause
death.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes taking medications, such as
antihistamines and corticosteroids. For people at risk of anaphylactic
shock, an epinephrine injection kit should be available at all times. Use
air conditioners or air purifiers when pollen counts are high. Use
dehumidifiers during damp weather to reduce mold and mildew growth. Clean
regularly, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high energy particulate air)
filter. Cover furniture with slipcovers that can be washed.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Angina Pectoris
OVERVIEW
Angina is identified by a cramping pain in the chest. Usually it is
caused by a shortage of oxygen to the heart because of restricted blood flow
from hardening of the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis). The pain usually
travels down the left arm, and often there is a feeling of suffocation and
impending death. Attacks of angina pectoris are often related to exertion,
emotional excitement, and contact with intense cold. Angina is often a
precursor to a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes medications (nitrates, beta blockers,
calcium channel blockers) and surgery (angioplasty, bypass surgery). Other
recommendations include stress reduction techniques (biofeedback, yoga),
improvements to the diet, quitting smoking, and appropriate exercise. Do not
exercise for at least an hour after eating heavy meals.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Anxiety
OVERVIEW
Anxiety is an emotion manifesting physical and mental symptoms such as
sweating, trembling, feeling of worry, powerlessness, uncertainty, and fear
that comes from thinking about some threat or danger that may or may not
exist. Anxiety is often psychological, rather than a response to real
conditions. The cause of the problem is complex and may involve a mental
conflict about values and goals of life. Anxiety can also be caused by a
change in health, income, work status, or family relationships. Anxiety is
classified into many types, including generalized anxiety disorder,
adjustment disorder with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic
disorder, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety
disorder.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatments include psychotherapy and medications
(antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta blockers). Meditation,
yoga, and biofeedback may also be helpful. Exercise regularly, especially
walking outside in peaceful environments. Reduce intakes of alcohol,
caffeine, and nicotine.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Asthma
OVERVIEW
Asthma is a lung disorder with symptoms including coughing (sometimes
with phlegm), sudden difficulty in breathing, and a tight feeling in the
chest. Asthmatic episodes may be started by breathing in foreign substances
(allergens) or pollutants (including secondhand smoke), infection, vigorous
exercise, or emotional stress. In response to the stimulus, the passages of
the respiratory system narrow, making it more difficult for air to pass into
and out of the lungs. Asthma has a higher incidence in the cities of
industrialized countries in the higher latitudes. Being overweight also
increases the risk for asthma.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
There are many medications available to prevent or treat asthma attacks.
Also recommended is avoiding trigger substances by regularly dusting and
using vacuum cleaners with special filters (HEPA), using an air conditioner
or air filter, avoiding people who smoke, and pets. Yoga breathing
techniques may be helpful. Learn stress reducing techniques. During cold,
winter months, wear a scarf over your nose and mouth to warm the air. Avoid
foods and beverages that contain sulfites, such as dried fruit, beer, and
wine.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Bruising
(Capillary Fragility)
OVERVIEW
Bruising is a contusion to the skin caused by contact with a hard object.
The capillaries (tiny blood vessels beneath the skin) are ruptured, but the
skin is not broken. The bruised area swells as blood from the broken blood
vessels seeps into the tissues and turns into various shades of red, blue,
and purple. Eventually the blood cells are broken down, reabsorbed, and the
discoloration and swelling disappear. Easy bruising that is not the result
of dietary deficiencies (e.g., vitamin K) may be caused by some medications
(e.g., blood thinners) or other health conditions (e.g., leukemia).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Cancer
OVERVIEW
Cancer is a malignant tumor or growth caused when cells multiply
uncontrollably, destroying healthy tissue. Cancer cells usually invade and
destroy normal tissue cells, and then spread to other parts of the body via
the lymph or bloodstream. The different forms of cancer are sarcomas,
carcinomas, leukemias, and lymphomas. Warning signs for cancer may be a
change in bowel or bladder habits, a nonhealing sore, unusual bleeding or
discharge, a thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere, indigestion or
difficulty in swallowing, a change in a wart or mole, or a persistent cough
or continuing hoarseness. Cancer usually develops gradually over many years.
It can be the result of a combination of environmental, nutritional,
behavioral, and hereditary factors.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
More Helpful: beta-carotene; folic acid; gamma-tocopherol; vitamins
(A, B6, B12, C, D, E); calcium; selenium.
Less Helpful: tocotrienols.
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
More Helpful: astragalus; garlic; grape seed; mushrooms (maitake,
reishi, shiitake, turkey tail); turmeric.
Less Helpful: bilberry; cat= s
claw; chlorella; cordyceps; ginseng; rosemary.
COMMENTS
The above nutraceuticals may help prevent or treat one or more cancers.
Check individual listings to see if they are specific for a particular
cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates that approximately one third
of cancers is diet related, and another third is due to environmental and
lifestyle factors.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Canker Sores
(Aphthous Stomatitis)
OVERVIEW
Canker Sores are small sores or blisters on the inside of the lips or
cheeks, or on any other part of the mouth coated with mucus. The cause of
canker sores is unknown, but may include oral irritation, a food allergy,
certain foods (citrus fruit, tomatoes), herpes infection, and emotional
stress. They usually heal by themselves within two weeks, but can last much
longer. Women are more likely to get canker sores than men.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin/mineral deficiencies (folic acid, B1, B2, B6, B12,
C, iron, zinc).
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
More Helpful:
Less Helpful: topical (aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, goldenseal,
licorice, myrrh, oregano oil).
COMMENTS
There are pastes and solutions to treat the infection and pain from
canker sores. Nothing natural stands out for treating canker sores. Avoid
spicy and salty foods, coffee, chewing gum, and alcohol. Use natural oral
care products.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Cardiac Arrhythmia
OVERVIEW
Cardiac arrhythmias are any changes in the normal pattern of the heart
beat. Abnormal heart rhythms are caused by problems with the electrical
conduction system of the heart. There are several kinds of arrhythmias,
including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, heart block, premature atrial
contraction, and sinus arrhythmia. Arrhythmias affecting the ventricles are
more serious than those of the atria. Arrhythmias may be brief or last for
long periods of time. A temporary arrhythmia can be caused by something as
common as alcohol or caffeine. Arrhythmias may involve either abnormally
slow (bradycardia) or fast (tachycardia) changes in rhythm.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatments include medications, or an artificial pacemaker
implanted in the chest. If you have a pacemaker, check with your doctor
before taking fish oil supplements. Ventricular fibrillation can be an
emergency, and is usually treated with an electrical defibrillator that
delivers a shock to the heart. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and OTC
drugs with stimulant properties. Exercise regularly, and try stress
reduction techniques.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Cardiomyopathy
OVERVIEW
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle, and it is usually
chronic. There are several types of cardiomyopathy: dilated, hypertrophic,
and restrictive. Cardiomyopathy may be caused by infections (bacterial,
viral, fungal), nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B1, selenium, carnitine),
rheumatic fever, drug use (alcohol, cocaine, and some prescription
medications), or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
Cardiomyopathy can lead to a progressive weakening of the heart muscle, and
it sometimes results in heart failure. Symptoms include shortness of breath,
palpitations, chest pain, and weakness.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Medications used to treat cardiomyopathy include angiotensin-converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta blockers, and diuretics. It is important to
avoid alcohol and salt. Try to have as natural a diet as possible, and learn
stress reduction techniques. Check with your doctor to decide what kind and
amount of exercise is appropriate.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
(Repetitive Stress Injury)
OVERVIEW
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition involving tingling, pain, numbness,
and weakness in the hand and wrist. It is often caused by repetitive
compression of the middle nerve (median nerve) that passes through the wrist
into the hand. Repetitive wrist movements related to work (e.g., power
tools, machinery, typing) are often the cause. The syndrome is more common
in women, especially in pregnant and in menopausal women.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Putting the wrist in a splint (especially during sleep) is one treatment.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also used. Acupressure and
acupuncture treatments can provide help. Take frequent breaks during
activities requiring repetitive hand movements. Try ice packs (or frozen
peas, etc.) on the wrists for five or ten minutes.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Cataracts
OVERVIEW
Cataracts are an eye disease in which the lens becomes covered in an
opaque film that affects sight. The most common form is senile cataracts,
which usually occur in people more than 50 years old. These cataracts are a
result of a chemical change in the gelatinous lens protein encapsulated
behind the iris. Cataracts are progressive. At first vision is blurred, and
then bright lights cause glare, and images may appear double or distorted.
If untreated, total vision can be lost.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Usually a cataract is treated surgically by replacing the lens with an
artificial implant. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. If you smoke,
quit. When out in the sun, wear sunglasses (must protect against UVA and UVB
rays) and a hat.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Celiac Disease
OVERVIEW
Celiac disease is a disorder caused by a sensitivity to gluten that makes
the digestive system unable to deal with fat. Gluten consists of two
proteins, gliaden and glutenin. Gluten is found in some cereal grains (small
amounts in barley and oats; moderate amounts in rye and triticale; large
amounts in wheat). It makes dough elastic, and enables it to rise by
trapping gas. People with celiac disease have a sensitivity to gluten
(T-cell-mediated immune response) that reduces fat digestion, as well as the
assimilation of many nutrients. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and
fatigue. The disease may be present at birth or develop later in life.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatment includes replacing the offending grains (especially wheat, rye,
triticale, and barley) with substitutes, including products made with
arrowroot, corn, potato, rice, soybean, and tapioca. Some people with celiac
disease may also have difficulty digesting dairy products (lactose
intolerant).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
OVERVIEW
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also called chronic fatigue immune
deficiency syndrome (CFIDS), is a condition characterized by a disabling
fatigue that lasts for six months or longer. Besides the fatigue, symptoms
may include low-grade fever, muscle and joint pains, swelling of the neck
glands, sore throat, headache, poor concentration, memory loss, and sleep
problems. No single cause has been attributed to CFS, although viral
infections are suspected, including Epstein-Barr virus. An overactive immune
system, food allergies, and adrenal gland dysfunction, are also considered
as possible causes. More women than men suffer from CFS, usually between the
ages of 30 and 50 years old. Depression or other illnesses should be ruled
out. When there is more muscle pain than fatigue, the condition is
reclassified as fibromyalgia (FM).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Depending on the symptoms, conventional treatment may include
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), MAO inhibitors, or
antidepressants. Other possibilities include dietary modifications (reduced
allergen content), cleaned home environment (reduced synthetics and
chemicals), mild exercise, and meditation or other stress-reducing
techniques.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Cold Sores
(Herpes)
OVERVIEW
Cold sores (also called fever blisters or herpes labialis) are small
blisters on, or near the lips. They may burn, tingle, or itch. When first
infected, there is usually a fever. Cold sores are caused by the herpes
simplex virus (HSV). Herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1) usually affects
the face (lips, nose, eyes), and herpes simplex virus, type 2 (HSV-2)
usually affects the genital area. (HSV-1 is also called herpes labialis, and
HSV-2 is also called herpes genitalis.) The virus is very contagious in the
active phase (blisters present), and can also be spread when there are no
blisters. After the initial infection subsides, the virus lies dormant in
the neurons (nerve cells). The virus may then be stimulated into a new
attack by fever, physical or emotional stress, exposure to sunlight, or
certain foods or drugs. Outbreaks commonly last one to two weeks. HSV-2 can
cause problems during pregnancy (spontaneous abortion, premature labor). It
can also increase the risk for cervical cancer. Ocular herpes can lead to
blindness.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Topical preparations are available to treat outbreaks (anesthetics,
antivirals), as well as antiviral pills. Avoid foods that are high in the
amino acid, arginine (nuts, seeds, chocolate).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Common Cold
OVERVIEW
The common cold is an acute, infectious disease of the upper respiratory
tract (nose, sinuses, and throat). It is caused by one of many viruses,
mostly of the rhinovirus group. Symptoms commonly include nasal congestion
and discharge, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, headache, and fatigue.
Adults usually do not get fevers. Cold viruses are spread via coughing and
sneezing, and hand contact with the mucous membranes (eyes and nose). Adults
commonly get one or two colds per year, while children get six to eight.
Colds are self-limiting, usually lasting about one week.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Decongestants and antihistamines are often used to treat nasal
congestion. Herbal steam baths (eucalyptus or peppermint) are natural
alternatives. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Using humidifiers
during the winter keeps the mucous membranes moist and reduces the
likelihood of getting a cold. Also, keep fingers away from nose and eyes if
you are around a sick person. Echinacea has been recommended for colds for
many decades, but recent research disputes its effectiveness.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Congestive Heart Failure
OVERVIEW
Congestive heart failure (CHF) manifests when the heart is unable to pump
an adequate supply of blood to meet the body=
s metabolic needs. The failure can be in either the right or left ventricles
of the heart. This leads to congestion in the lungs, heart, and veins.
Symptoms include fatigue, difficulty in breathing, heart rhythm
abnormalities (dysrhythmias), and edema. Causes of CHF include coronary
artery disease, hypertension, bacterial or viral infections of the heart,
and chemicals and drugs that damage the heart=
s valves.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Medications, such as inotropics, vasodilators, and diuretics, are used to
assist the heart and reduce its workload. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and
nicotine, and reduce salt intake. Eat smaller, more frequent meals, instead
of a few large meals. Check with your doctor to decide what kind and amount
of exercise is appropriate.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Constipation
OVERVIEW
Constipation is a difficulty in defecation (bowel movement), resulting in
feces that are hard and dry. Causes include diets that do not have enough
fiber, insufficient fluid intake, irregular eating hours, excessive use of
laxatives, lack of physical activity, or the voluntary avoidance of bowel
movements. People may experience sluggishness, headache, and abdominal
distension when they are constipated. Chronic constipation can result in
impaction (inability to empty the rectum), which requires medical treatment.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Stool softeners and laxatives are used to treat constipation.
Recommendations to preventing it include increasing intakes of raw fruits,
raw vegetables, and water, plus regular exercise. When using soluble fibers
(e.g., guar gum, psyllium), it is very important to drink plenty of water.
Other important tips include maintaining regular bowel habits, and not
resisting the urge to defecate.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
Coronary Heart Disease
(Atherosclerosis; Coronary Artery Disease)
OVERVIEW
Coronary heart disease is the most common disease affecting the heart. It
has a higher incidence in industrialized countries, most likely due to
dietary (high fat, low fiber) and lifestyle (sedentary, smoking) choices.
High blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, are contributing factors.
Besides elevated blood cholesterol, high levels of triglycerides,
homocysteine, and C-reactive protein (CRP), are considered independent risk
factors for CHD. The coronary arteries are less elastic, and the blood flow
becomes restricted by deposits of plaque, which consist of cholesterol,
connective tissue, calcium deposits, and blood platelets (used to form
clots). The reduced blood flow can cause angina pectoris (pain in the
heart). Heart attacks can be caused by a blood clot blocking a narrowed
section of a coronary artery (myocardial infarction), and the lack of
blood-delivered oxygen leads to muscle damage. (A similar process causes
ischemic stroke.)
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
More Helpful: vitamins (B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, C);
tocotrienols; magnesium.
Less Helpful: choline; gamma tocopherol; vitamin E; chromium; selenium;
silicon.
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatments include lowering cholesterol, reducing chance of blood clots,
and lowering blood pressure. For blocked arteries, angioplasty may be done.
Dietary changes (natural diet, low salt, high fiber, plenty of fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, legumes), regular exercise, quitting smoking, and
stress reduction, also help.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
Top of Page
|
