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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.
Depression
OVERVIEW
Depression is an emotional state with symptoms including persistent
feelings of hopelessness, dejection, poor concentration, lack of energy and
motivation, inability to sleep, and at the extreme, suicidal thoughts.
Depression can be caused by hormonal imbalance, nervous system disorders,
infection, medications, poor diet or food allergies, genetics (hereditary),
or cancer. Mild depression may last for only a day or two, while major
depression may last many months or years. Women are much more likely to
suffer from depression than men.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Exercise, especially outdoors, may be the answer for mild depression.
Major depression may require psychotherapy, antidepressants, and possibly
ECT (electroconvulsive therapy). Biofeedback, meditation, and yoga, may also
help. Avoid junk food, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, and instead follow a
natural, nutritionally balanced diet.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Diabetes Mellitus
(Hyperglycemia)
OVERVIEW
Diabetes mellitus is a disease in which the pancreas fails to release
enough insulin to meet the body= s
needs. Symptoms include excessive urination, thirst, hunger, and problems
with fat and protein metabolism. There are two main types of diabetes. Type
I diabetes (formerly called insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile-onset
diabetes) usually appears suddenly around puberty, and the pancreas produces
no insulin. Genetics and autoimmune disease are thought to be contributors
to its cause. Type II diabetes (formerly called non-insulin-dependent
diabetes or adult-onset diabetes) appears gradually, usually after the age
of forty, and the body develops resistance to its insulin. Obesity is the
primary cause of type II diabetes. If not treated properly, the disease can
cause many problems, including cardiovascular and peripheral vascular
disease, retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and impotence.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
For type I diabetes, regularly checking insulin levels and frequent
insulin injections are recommended. For type II diabetes, proper diet,
weight loss, and regular exercise, can reverse the disease. Drinking coffee
reduces the risk of getting type I diabetes.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Diarrhea
OVERVIEW
Diarrhea is a condition of frequent and excessive bowel movements of
thin, watery feces. It is not a disease, but a symptom of many disorders and
conditions, including food poisoning, bacterial and viral infections, spicy
foods, excessive consumption of certain sugar substitutes, and anxiety.
Intestinal disorders, such as Crohn=
s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, also cause
diarrhea.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Dehydration and loss of electrolytes (potassium, sodium, chloride) are
complications associated with chronic diarrhea, and they need to be
addressed with increased fluid and mineral intake. Avoid insoluble fiber
(whole grains, especially wheat bran), but soluble fibers (guar gum,
psyllium, pectin) are okay. Try bland foods, such as white rice and bananas.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Earache
OVERVIEW
Earache is a pain felt in the ear, and may be dull or sharp, and steady
or periodic. Infections or disorders near the ear (nose, mouth, throat, and
jaw) can cause pain in the ear. Accompanying the pain may be fever, nausea,
vomiting, or diarrhea. Infections of the middle ear (otitis media) occur
mostly in children, and are usually the result of a bacterial or viral
infection of the upper respiratory tract. Allergies may also cause ear
infections.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Analgesics may be used to treat the pain, and antibiotics used if there
is an infection. Dependence on the regular use of antibiotics should be
avoided. Children who get earaches often may have tubes inserted into their
eardrum to reduce fluid buildup. Check for food allergies. Breast-fed babies
are less likely to get ear infections (otitis media).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Eczema
(Dermatitis)
OVERVIEW
Eczema is not a specific disease, but an inflammatory skin condition
classified into four types of dermatitis: atopic, contact, nummular, and
seborrheic. Symptoms generally include redness, vesicles, crusting, scaling,
and sometimes itching. The causes of dermatitis are often unknown. Atopic
dermatitis may be caused by allergies. Contact dermatitis is caused by an
irritant. Nummular dermatitis is more likely to appear in the winter months.
Seborrheic dermatitis is connected with hereditary factors. Dermatitis is
not contagious.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Medications (antihistamines, corticosteroids) are usually prescribed to
relieve itching and inflammation. Stress reduction techniques have shown to
be helpful. Try removing allergenic foods (eggs, citrus, dairy, shellfish,
soy, wheat, nuts) one at a time from the diet. Use natural skin care
products.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Erectile Dysfunction
(Impotence)
OVERVIEW
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of an adult male to achieve an
erection for sexual penetration. It is classified into three types: anatomic
(defective genitals; called primary impotence), atonic (disturbed
neuromuscular function; called secondary impotence), and functional
(psychological origin; also called secondary impotence). Besides
psychological problems, secondary impotence can be the result of side
effects from some medications (diuretics, antidepressants, hormones),
diabetes, or vascular disease.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Fibrocystic Breast
Disease
(Chronic Cystic Mastitis)
OVERVIEW
Fibrocystic breast disease is pain in the breasts (mastalgia) associated
with lumps (cysts). Besides increased tenderness, symptoms include aching
and swollen breasts. Symptoms usually appear one week before menstruation
and disappear one week after menstruation. The cause is believed to be a
hormonal imbalance between estrogen and progesterone. Women who have
fibrocystic breast disease are at a greater risk for getting breast cancer.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Fibromyalgia
OVERVIEW
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a disorder characterized by muscle pain, fatigue,
depression, insomnia, and headaches. Digestive problems, such as irritable
bowel syndrome, may also be present. Fibromyalgia is similar to chronic
fatigue syndrome, but the emphasis is more on muscle pain, not fatigue. The
cause is unknown, but stress, inadequate sleep, neurotransmitter imbalances,
and certain infections, may be contributing factors. Women are much more
likely than men to get fibromyalgia.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatments, including analgesics, antidepressants, stress reduction
(e.g., meditation), and exercise, can reduce the symptoms. Some forms of
massage (trigger point, reflexology) may help. Get plenty of sleep, have a
good diet, and reduce intake of alcohol, caffeine, and sugar. Supplements
for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may help when there is also fatigue
present.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Flu
(Influenza)
OVERVIEW
Flu is an acute, viral disease primarily of the respiratory tract.
Symptoms include chills, high fever, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, sore
throat, chest pain, and headache. The common cold usually does not have the
fever and fatigue associated with the flu, and does have the upper
respiratory congestion that the flu usually does not have. The flu virus is
easily passed from person to person, mainly in droplets expelled during
sneezes and coughs. In susceptible individuals, a complication can be viral
pneumonia or a secondary bacterial pneumonia.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Immunization, frequent hand washing, and avoiding infected individuals,
reduce the chance of becoming infected. Drink plenty of fluids and get
sufficient rest.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Gallstones
(Cholelithiasis)
OVERVIEW
Gallstones are found in the biliary tract, and consist of bile pigments
and calcium salts. Excessive amounts of cholesterol and calcium in the bile,
and reduced bile flow, contribute to gallstone production. Gallstones range
in size from a pea to a golf ball. They are more common in diabetics, women,
and African-Americans, and their likelihood increases with age. While many
people will have no symptoms, others will experience general stomach
discomfort, right-sided pain, jaundice, burping, and intolerance to certain
foods (high fat).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatment includes surgery and ultrasound. Vegetarians are less likely to
get gallstones. Increase fiber intake and reduce saturated fats (cheese,
fried foods, red meat). Increase olive oil intake. Caffeine consumption
(coffee and other caffeinated beverages) reduces gallstone risk. People who
exercise regularly are less likely to get gallstones.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Gas
(Flatulence)
OVERVIEW
Flatulence is the presence of excessive amounts of gas in the stomach or
intestines that is eventually expelled from the rectum as flatus. Other
symptoms include stomach or intestinal bloat and pain. The origin of the gas
is a combination of swallowed air (aerophagia) and a variety of gasses
produced from incomplete food digestion. Foods that are high in fiber (whole
grains), cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower), and the
indigestible carbohydrates found in legumes (resistant starches, e.g.,
stachyose, raffinose), are more likely to produce gas.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Glaucoma
OVERVIEW
Glaucoma is a condition of the eye defined by increased intraocular
pressure. Most cases of glaucoma are open-angle (also called chronic simple
glaucoma), and about 5% being closed-angle. When there are symptoms, they
include frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, mild headaches, vague
visual disturbances, halos around lights, and difficulty adjusting to
darkness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Risk
factors for glaucoma include old age, family history, being
African-American, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Gout
OVERVIEW
Gout is characterized by attacks of pain, often in the joints, and
especially the big toe. Besides pain, joints may be red and swollen. Fever
and chills may also accompany attacks of gout. The attacks, which last a few
days to a week or more, are triggered by elevated levels of uric acid in the
blood. Foods that are high in purines (e.g., high protein foods, including
anchovies, herring, sardines, shellfish, legumes, liver and other organ
meats, and poultry), asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms, and spinach,
increase uric acid levels. Alcohol (especially beer) also increases uric
acid levels. Almost all cases of gout are found in men.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Medications (colchicine, indomethacin) are available. Dietary changes and
increased water intake usually eliminate or reduce the attacks. So, increase
water intake, reduce weight (if obese), and make the necessary dietary
changes (see Overview above). Eating cherries and other berries may also
lower uric acid levels.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Gum Disease
(Gingivitis; Periodontal Disease; Periodontitis)
OVERVIEW
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a disease of the gums
and bones that support the teeth. It begins when plaque builds up around the
teeth. Bacteria in the plaque attack the gum tissue (gingiva), causing
inflammation and recession of the tissue from the teeth. If the disease
progresses, the periodontal ligament, which anchors the teeth to the bone,
deteriorates, allowing the teeth to loosen. Left untreated, tooth loss can
occur. Symptoms of periodontal disease include swollen gums that bleed
easily, especially after flossing and brushing. Other symptoms include
shrinkage of the gum tissue from the teeth, pus, and bad breath.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Headaches
(Cluster; Migraine; Tension)
OVERVIEW
Headaches are classified into three main types: tension, migraine, and
cluster. Tension headaches are by far the most common, and can be caused by
muscle tension, minor trauma, stress or anxiety, allergies, sinus or ear
infections, or eye strain. They are usually dull, on both sides of the head
(bilateral), and do not throb. Migraines affect about 5% of the population,
mostly women, and are often triggered by the hormonal changes around their
menstrual periods. They may also be caused by allergies, diets high in
carbohydrates or salt, foods containing tyramine (aged cheese, processed
meat), nuts, beer, wine, whiskey, chocolate, and some fruit (bananas, citrus
fruit). Usually preceded by a visual aura, the pain is on one side of the
head (unilateral) and is throbbing. Cluster headaches are more common in
men, also on one side of the head (often around the eye), with a deep,
nonthrobbing pain. They usually are of shorter duration than migraines.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Analgesics (aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen) usually help tension
headaches. Migraines and cluster headaches usually require various
prescription medications, such as triptans and ergot derivatives. Caffeine
can help with simple headaches and migraines. Breathing pure oxygen can be
helpful with cluster headaches. Aromatherapy with lavender or peppermint may
help.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Heartburn
(Gastroesophageal Reflux; GERD)
OVERVIEW
Heartburn (acid reflux) is a condition of acidity in the esophagus. If
the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes, it allows stomach acid to enter
(regurgitate) the esophagus. Reflux can be caused by pregnancy, obesity,
hiatal hernia, lifestyle (alcohol, coffee, smoking) or diet (fatty foods,
chocolate, peppermint, large meals).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
To reduce GERD, eat small evening meals, elevate the head of the bed, and
make the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes (see Overview above). That
is better than relying on antacids, which may interfere with protein
digestion by neutralizing stomach acid.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Hemorrhoids
(Piles)
OVERVIEW
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in or around the rectum or anus. They are
caused by pregnancy and constipation (straining at stool), and can be
exacerbated by stress or sitting for long periods of time. Symptoms include
pain, itching, and bleeding.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
The most important goal is to maintain soft stools, primarily by
increasing water and fiber intake. Stool softeners and topical preparations
are available, and if they do not work, surgery is an option. Do not hold
breath when lifting heavy objects.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Hepatitis
OVERVIEW
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by bacterial and
viral infections, and by chronic exposure to alcohol, certain drugs, and
toxic chemicals, such as paint thinners and aerosol sprays. Symptoms can
range from none to many, including fatigue and weakness, lack of appetite,
fever, and abdominal pain. Another symptom is jaundice, a yellowing of the
skin and eyes that is the result of the liver=
s failure to break down bile pigments. The most common forms of hepatitis
are caused by a variety of viruses, and they are classified alphabetically,
hepatitis A virus to hepatitis E virus (HAV, HBV, HCV, HDV, HEV). The most
common ways they are acquired are: HAV via the fecal to hand route (bathroom
to kitchen), HBV mostly from sexual intercourse, and HCV from intravenous
drug use. Other liver problems include cirrhosis and fatty liver.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Hepatitis can be prevented by cleanliness and proper food handling, safe
sex, and not sharing IV needles. Vaccines are available for HAV and HBV.
Avoid combining alcohol and acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), a combination
that can lower glutathione in the liver. Avoid saturated fat and fried
foods.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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High Blood Pressure
(Hypertension)
OVERVIEW
High blood pressure is a medical condition, usually without symptoms, in
which the arterial blood pressure consistently exceeds 140/90 mm Hg.
(Optimal is below 120/80.) Basically it is a combination of too much blood
volume and/or too narrow arteries. In most cases of hypertension (about
95%), the cause is unknown (idiopathic), but may be connected to genetic
predisposition, race, obesity, smoking, stress, and a high-fat or
high-sodium diet. This is called essential hypertension. In secondary
hypertension, the cause is related to a medical condition, such as kidney
disease, or endocrine or metabolic disorders. Two other forms of
hypertension are malignant and preeclampsia (toxemia of pregnancy). If left
untreated, hypertension can increase the likelihood of having a heart
attack, stroke, or kidney failure.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatment usually starts with changes to diet (less fat and salt, and
more fresh fruit and vegetables) and lifestyle (lose weight, stop smoking,
less alcohol, stress reduction, exercise more). Plenty of medications are
available, including diuretics (water pills), beta-blockers, and ACE
inhibitors.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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High Cholesterol
(Hypercholesterolemia)
OVERVIEW
High cholesterol is a condition of having too much cholesterol in the
blood. Cholesterol is a type of fat (sterol) found in animal fats and oils
(not plants) that is a component of cell membranes, and is also converted
into vitamin D, as well as steroid hormones (estrogen, testosterone,
aldosterone), and bile acids. When blood levels are too high, it is usually
because the body= s liver is
making too much of it. Cholesterol levels should be kept below 200 mg/dl.
Low-density cholesterol (LDL-C) is often called the
A bad@
cholesterol, but it is necessary for life. However, when it becomes oxidized
(ox-LDL-C), it has atherogenic properties, contributing to plaque buildup in
the arteries.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Dietary recommendations include decreasing intakes of saturated fat and
trans-fatty acids, and increasing intakes of monounsaturated fat and
fiber. Statin drugs decrease the body=
s production of cholesterol by inhibiting an enzyme in the pathway for
cholesterol synthesis. Unfortunately, they also reduce synthesis of coenzyme
Q10.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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High Homocysteine
(Hyperhomocysteinemia)
OVERVIEW
Homocysteine is produced from the sulfur-containing amino acid,
methionine. (Methionine is also responsible for producing cysteine, SAMe,
and taurine.) Elevated levels of homocysteine can contribute to the clogging
of arteries. Therefore, homocysteine is considered to be an independent risk
factor for causing coronary heart disease (atherosclerosis). Fortunately,
homocysteine can be converted back to methionine when there are sufficient
levels of three B-vitamins: B6, B12, and folic acid.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Usually a moderate to high potency multivitamin supplement will contain
enough of the B-vitamins to keep homocysteine in check. If needed, there are
supplements containing just the ingredients for lowering homocysteine
levels. These should be taken in addition to a multivitamin supplement,
especially if it is a low potency one. New research shows that vitamin B2
(riboflavin) may lower homocysteine in some people.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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High Triglycerides
(Hypertriglyceridemia)
OVERVIEW
High triglycerides is a condition of having too many triglycerides in the
blood. Triglycerides are compounds made up of three fatty acids (oleic,
palmitic, or stearic) and glycerol. Factors that can elevate blood
triglycerides include a refined carbohydrate diet, alcohol, obesity,
untreated diabetes or hypothyroidism, chronic renal disease, and liver
disease. Elevated triglyceride levels increase the risk for coronary heart
disease. Triglyceride levels should be kept below 150 mg/dl.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Steps to reduce triglycerides include reducing intakes of sweets
(including very sweet and dried fruit), other refined carbohydrates, fat,
and alcohol, weight reduction (if overweight), and increasing activity
levels. Blood tests can be influenced by what was recently eaten (also by
alcohol and exercise), so you may not want to rely on the results of only
one test.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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HIV/AIDS
(Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
OVERVIEW
HIV/AIDS is a virus and disease process. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency
Virus) takes over one type of immune cell (T-helper cell lymphocyte),
leading to immunosuppression and a lowering of the body=
s main defense mechanism against intracellular pathogens and the formation
of malignant tumors. This process may take several months or as long as 10
to 15 years, and is classified into four stages. The final, life threatening
stage, is called AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). HIV is
contracted through unprotected sex with an infected partner, the sharing of
hypodermic needles, or from infected mother to baby. There is no cure for
HIV/AIDS, but combinations of drugs slow the progression of the disease.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
To offset weight loss (of lean body mass), extra protein is necessary.
Whey protein is particularly helpful, plus it contains immune factors,
branched chain amino acids, and glutamine. Also take a high potency
multivitamin supplement (e.g., 6 pill/day formula).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Hives
(Urticaria)
OVERVIEW
Hives is an allergic reaction that produces wheals, temporary raised
areas on the skin, which are usually red and itchy. Hives may be caused by
food allergies (shellfish, eggs, nuts, fruit), some medications (aspirin,
penicillin, insulin), insect bites (bed bugs, lice), clothing materials
(silk, wool), or chronic emotional stress.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Besides avoiding the offending materials or conditions, antihistamines
can help reduce the allergic response. Avoid food and beverages containing
artificial ingredients (color, flavor, preservatives). Reduce stress with
relaxation techniques. Try creams or lotions with chamomile or aloe vera.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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