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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.
Immune Function
(Immunodepression; Infection)
OVERVIEW
Immune function can be compromised when the main organs of the immune
response system (bone marrow, thymus, and lymphoid tissues) are not
functioning properly. These organs produce a variety of immune components,
including neutrophils, lymphocytes, macrophages, immunoglobulins, and
interferon. A poorly operating immune system results in frequent bacterial,
viral, or fungal infections, allergies, and even cancer. Factors that can
depress the immune system include inborn errors (genetic defects), alcohol
and drug abuse, certain medications (chemotherapy, corticosteroids), certain
viral infections (Epstein-Barr, HIV), smoking, chronic stress, poor sleep,
too little or too much exercise, trauma, burns, and a poor diet. The immune
system can also turn against the body, causing diseases such as lupus,
multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type-1 diabetes.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
More Helpful: andrographis; ashwaganda; cordyceps; garlic; ginseng
(Panax and Siberian); olive leaf.
Less Helpful: astragalus; cat=
s claw; chlorella; echinacea; goldenseal; larch arabinogalactan; mushrooms
(maitake, reishi, shiitake); pau d=
arco.
COMMENTS
The supplements listed above either strengthen the immune system,
stimulate it, or directly act on various pathogenic organisms. Whey protein
contains immune factors that benefit the immune system. A natural diet,
moderate exercise, plenty of sleep, and various relaxation techniques, will
support the immune system.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Infertility, Female
OVERVIEW
Female infertility is the inability of not being able to conceive or to
carry a child to term. Infertility may be present in one or both sex
partners. In the case of female infertility, it may be a matter of
structural abnormalities or hormonal imbalances. Structural abnormalities
include anatomical irregularities that were present at birth, or developed
later as a result of infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea), inflammation, or
endometriosis, that scar the fallopian tubes and prevent sperm from reaching
the egg. Fibroid tumors and polyps can prevent a fertilized egg from
implanting in the uterine wall. Hormonal imbalances can affect the menstrual
cycle and inhibit the release of an egg for fertilization. This can be
caused by diabetes, thyroid disease, and polycystic ovarian syndrome, or by
the use of drugs, excessive alcohol or caffeine intake, or cigarette
smoking. Finally, age affects fertility.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Normal weight, not smoking, and moderate exercise, help with female
infertility problems. After sex, lie on back and stay in bed for at least 15
minutes.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Infertility, Male
OVERVIEW
Male infertility is the inability of not being able to conceive a child.
Infertility may be present in one or both sex partners. In the case of male
infertility, it may be a matter of sperm abnormalities, structural problems,
or medical disorders. Sperm abnormalities, which may be genetic, include low
sperm count and the quality of the sperm (poor motility or cannot penetrate
the egg). Contaminants, such as heavy metals and pesticides, can affect
sperm quality. Structural problems include varicocele and blocked vas
deferens, which influence the delivery of the sperm. Medical disorders
affecting male infertility include scarring that was caused by sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections. Medications for high
blood pressure and depression can cause erectile dysfunction. Low hormonal
levels can also reduce sperm levels. Finally, age affects fertility.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Inflammation
OVERVIEW
Inflammation is the response of the body=
s tissues to irritation, infection, or injury. There is increased blood flow
to the injured site, causing it to become red (rubor) and swollen (tumor).
Other symptoms include heat (calor) and pain (dolor). Carried within the
blood are white blood cells (lymphocytes) and macrophages. Contributing to
the inflammatory response are substances called histamine, leukotrienes,
kinins, and prostaglandins. Pretty much any condition that ends in
A itis@
involves inflammation. Examples include arthritis, bursitis, colitis,
conjunctivitis, dermatitis, diverticulitis, gastritis, gingivitis,
hepatitis, interstitial cystitis, nephritis, neuritis, pancreatitis,
pharyngitis, phlebitis, prostatitis, sinusitis, tendonitis, thyroiditis,
tonsillitis, ulcerative colitis, and vaginitis. Excessive inflammation is
now thought to be a contributory factor in coronary heart disease
(atherosclerosis).
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease
(Crohn's Disease; Ulcerative Colitis; Ulcerative Proctitis)
OVERVIEW
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a long-term disease of unknown cause.
The two most common kinds of IBD are Crohn=
s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). Crohn=
s disease most often affects the lower part of the small intestine (the
large intestine can also be involved), whereas ulcerative colitis is
confined to the colon (large intestine), or just the rectum (ulcerative
proctitis). Symptoms include many attacks of diarrhea, severe stomach pain,
nausea, fever, chills, weakness, appetite loss, and weight loss. American
and European Jews are at greatest risk for inflammatory bowel disease,
sometimes just called colitis. If left untreated, IBD can increase the risk
for colon cancer.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes anti-inflammatory (corticosteroids) and
antidiarrheal drugs, and possibly surgery to remove diseased sections of the
intestines. Nutritional support is needed to replace nutrients lost because
of malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins and some minerals). Food allergens
can cause inflammation, so try to determine if you are allergic to a food
(e.g., corn, dairy, soy, wheat). Reduce intake of refined carbohydrates.
Drink sufficient water to avoid dehydration. Try various stress reducing
techniques.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Insomnia
OVERVIEW
Insomnia is the condition in which a person has a chronic inability to
fall asleep, or to remain asleep throughout the night. It can be caused by
various physical and psychological factors. Physical factors include an
overactive thyroid, diabetes, muscle twitching, or consumption of
caffeine-containing products (coffee, black and green tea, cocoa, chocolate,
some soft drinks) before going to bed. Some cold, allergy, and headache
medications also contain caffeine. Psychological factors include problems
that produce anxiety, irrational fears, and tensions. Naps during the day,
and not being exposed to sufficient daylight, can also contribute to
insomnia.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Treatments include medications (for short-term use only), psychotherapy,
and exercise. Exposure to full-spectrum light during the day can reset the
body= s biological clock
(circadian rhythm), allowing for greater release of melatonin by the pineal
gland at night. Keep the bedroom very dark at night. Avoid alcohol, caffeine
(sodas and tea), chocolate, and tobacco. Try to have a regular sleep
schedule, every night, including the weekends. Do not read or watch
television in bed. Exercise during the day. Try meditation, yoga, or
aromatherapy (lavender).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
(Spastic Colon)
OVERVIEW
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), also commonly called spastic colon, is a
disorder affecting the small and large intestines. For some reason, the
intestines suffer from hypermotility, and food moves too quickly through
them. Symptoms include painless diarrhea after meals, or alternating painful
constipation and diarrhea. Other symptoms include bloating, flatulence, and
fatigue. While there is no known cause, emotional stress seems to be the
primary factor, with diet, drugs, and GI hormones possibly having roles,
too. More women than men are likely to have IBS.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes using antidiarrheal drugs and
bulk-forming agents. Medication to relieve anxiety, or stress-reducing
activities, may also help. Determine if you are lactose intolerant (not
IBS), and if so, avoid dairy or take lactase enzyme products. Gradually
increase the soluble fiber content of your diet. Avoid alcohol, caffeine,
and spicy and fatty foods. Eat slowly and have smaller, more frequent meals.
Check to see if you have food allergies. Try various relaxation techniques.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Kidney Stones
(Renal Calculi)
OVERVIEW
Kidney stones consist of a variety of elements (calcium, phosphates,
oxalates, urates) that crystalized in the urine while in the kidney. When
they leave the kidney, depending on the size of the stones, pain may be felt
in various areas, including the groin, stomach area, and lower back. Fever,
chills, and nausea may accompany the pain. Causes of kidney stones include
urinary tract infections, dehydration, deficiencies of vitamin A, vitamin
B6, and magnesium, and excesses of vitamin D and foods rich in calcium
oxalate, such as chocolate, tea, and spinach. People who have gout are at a
greater risk for getting kidney stones.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
While small stones may pass (with or without pain), large stones can
block the ureters, resulting in infection or worse. Removing these stones
requires chemical solvents or surgery. Extracorporeal shock wave
lithotripsy, which breaks up the stones, is used if they are small enough.
Drink plenty of water. If your stones are comprised of oxalates, avoid foods
containing oxalic acid, such as almonds, asparagus, beets, bell peppers,
black tea, celery, chocolate, egg plant, green beans, grapes, grapefruit,
parsley, peanuts, rhubarb, and strawberries. If your stones are comprised of
urates, avoid foods containing uric acid, such as anchovies, brewer=
s yeast, herring, organ meats, and sardines (in general, eat a low protein
diet). Also avoid alcohol, especially beer.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Low Blood Sugar
(Hypoglycemia)
OVERVIEW
Low blood sugar occurs when there is a less-than-normal amount of sugar
in the blood, usually below 70 mg/dL. One type of hypoglycemia occurs when a
diabetic injects too much insulin. More commonly, though, is a type called
reactive, or functional, hypoglycemia. Reactive hypoglycemia results from
the body producing too much insulin, usually three to five hours after a
meal. Symptoms include weakness, shakiness, anxiety, dizziness, sweating,
rapid heart beat, poor concentration, headaches, food cravings, drowsiness,
tingling in hands and feet, and depression. Some alternative health
practitioners believe that stress or allergies can contribute to
hypoglycemia. The adrenaline (epinephrine) produced as a result of stress or
anxiety, can produce the symptoms of low blood sugar.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Recommendations include avoiding caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and refined
carbohydrates (sweets, including fruit juice, and white flour products), and
increasing protein and wholegrain foods. Legumes, which contain soluble
fiber, are particularly good. It is also advisable to eat smaller, more
frequent, meals.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Lupus
(Systemic Lupus Erythematosus; SLE)
OVERVIEW
Lupus has no known cause, but it is considered to be an autoimmune
disease. The body produces antibodies to its own tissues, inducing
inflammation, and causing damage to many organs and systems. Symptoms
include arthritis, a butterfly-like rash on the nose and cheeks, fatigue,
sensitivity to sunlight, headache, fever, weight loss, and skin sores with
related hair loss. Organs affected can include the kidneys, lungs, heart,
and nervous system. The disease often cycles between remissions and
flare-ups. About nine times more women than men get lupus, and three times
more blacks than whites.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Conventional treatment includes aspirin and NSAIDs for mild flare-ups,
and stronger anti-inflammatory medications (corticosteroids) for more severe
episodes. Antimalarial drugs are sometimes given to treat skin sores, but
they can damage the eyes if used too much. It is also recommended that lupus
patients should avoid sunlight, eat a healthy diet, exercise, and avoid
stress.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Macular Degeneration
OVERVIEW
Macular degeneration, also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD
or ARMD), affects the macula, which is a small spot located at the center of
the eye= s retina. It allows for
focused, straight-ahead vision. When the macula becomes damaged, vision
needed for reading and seeing fine details is gradually lost. There are two
forms of AMD. The dry form is the most common (about 90%), progresses
slowly, and is less severe. The wet form has abnormal growth of blood
vessels beneath the macula, causing more rapid and extensive cell damage.
People at greater risk for AMD include those with light-colored eyes, and
those with diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Heredity,
smoking, being female, and spending a lot of time in sunlight, are also risk
factors.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
There is no conventional treatment for the dry form, but antioxidants are
thought to slow its progression. If done before there is significant damage,
surgery can help with the wet form. Eat a colorful diet containing
vegetables and fruit, especially berries. Wear sunglasses with UV protection
when outdoors.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Memory Loss
(Alzheimer= s Disease;
Senile Dementia)
OVERVIEW
Memory loss can be caused by alcoholism, depression, and stroke, but the
focus here is primarily on the severe form called Alzheimer=
s disease or senile dementia. The incidence of Alzheimer=
s disease increases dramatically from people in their 60s to their 80s. It
is a gradual and progressive disease, starting with symptoms of short-term
memory loss, to becoming paranoid or delusional, and being unable to carry
on a normal conversation. The time from diagnosis to death ranges from five
to fifteen years. Involved in the brain=
s destruction are amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary tangles. Family history
increases the risk, and high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, inflammation,
and a high-fat diet, can contribute to the disease.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
There is no known cure for Alzheimer=
s disease. Treatment has focused on increasing neurotransmitters, especially
acetylcholine. Patients have lower brain voltage, and dopamine precursors
(phenylalanine, tyrosine) may help. Antioxidants may slow the disease=
s progression. Exercise both the body and the mind (memory exercises,
crossword puzzles, etc.). Have a natural diet that is low in fat, especially
fried foods that contain trans-fatty acids. Fish that is low in
mercury is good.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Menopause
OVERVIEW
Menopause marks the permanent end of menstruation and fertility in women,
usually between ages 45 and 55. The ovaries stop egg production, and the
production of the hormone, estrogen, greatly declines. Besides the cessation
of their periods, some women may experience hot flashes, heavy sweating,
heart palpitations, and vaginal dryness. There may be some psychological
symptoms, including depression and mood swings. To relieve some of the
menopausal symptoms, synthetic hormones, including estrogen and progestin,
may be prescribed. Since hormonal therapy can increase the risk of breast
cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots, its use should be
considered wisely. While vaginal dryness can affect sexual intercourse,
sexual desire may decrease or increase.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol, caffeine, and
salt, stopping smoking, and increasing exercise, can improve the whole
menopausal experience.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Metabolic Syndrome
(Syndrome X)
OVERVIEW
Metabolic syndrome is a combination of metabolic disorders that increases
the risk for cardiovascular disease, and possibly cancer and other
illnesses. The signs are insulin resistance, abnormal blood lipids (high
total cholesterol and triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol), high blood
pressure, and obesity (especially fat around the belly or apple-shaped).
Sedentary lifestyle (little or no exercise), stress, smoking, as well as
poor dietary habits (high sugar, fat, and salt, and low fiber), contribute
to metabolic syndrome. The effect this syndrome has on health fits the
expression, A The whole is greater
than the sum of its parts.@
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
More Helpful: cinnamon; DHEA; lipoic acid; omega-3 fatty acids (fish
oil); soluble fiber (e.g., glucomannan, guar gum, psyllium).
Less Helpful: arginine; CoQ10; L-carnitine.
HERBS*
COMMENTS
The focus of treatment for metabolic syndrome is reducing insulin
resistance. Weight loss, through dietary improvements (fewer carbs and fat,
and more soluble fiber) and increased exercise, goes a long way to achieving
that goal. Also avoid alcohol and nicotine. For the other areas of concern
(high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure), go to their
individual listings for the supplements that may be helpful.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Mitral Valve Prolapse
OVERVIEW
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) occurs when one or both leaflets of the
mitral valve do not close properly. This causes a small amount of blood to
leak back into the left atrium, instead of completely flowing forward into
the left ventricle. (Blood enters the heart at the right atrium, then goes
to the right ventricle, the lungs, the left atrium, the left ventricle, and
then leaves the heart.) With a stethoscope, this can be heard as a click or
murmur. The cause of MVP is unknown, and about 5% to 10% of the population
has this condition, most of them being women. Usually there are no symptoms,
but some people may experience chest pain, weakness, or irregular heart
beats.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Multiple Sclerosis
OVERVIEW
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system, where
there is a loss of the myelin (fatty, protective coating) that covers the
nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Nerve transmission becomes slowed or
interrupted. Initial symptoms include numbness, tingling, weakness,
dizziness, and visual disturbances. The disease can progress to include
other symptoms, such as dementia, loss of bowel and bladder control, and
inability to stand and walk. The cause of MS is unknown, but genetics and a
faulty immune system are suspected. There are four categories of MS, based
on how the disease progresses, and the on-again (relapse) and off-again
(remitting) cycles of symptoms.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
There is no cure for MS, and few drugs are available for treatment.
Corticosteroids are used to shorten the duration of acute attacks, muscle
relaxants for spasticity, and other drugs for bladder problems and fatigue.
Exercise regularly, but gently. Do not exercise during an attack.
Stretching, especially yoga, can be helpful. Avoid excessive heat, or
becoming overheated. Some foods may trigger an attack (e.g., dairy, grains
containing gluten, vinegar, wine), so keep a record of the foods eaten
before an attack. The Swank Diet was developed by Roy Swank, M.D., for
people with MS. Some people use bee venom therapy (make sure you are not
allergic to bee stings).
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Nausea
(Morning Sickness; Motion Sickness)
OVERVIEW
Nausea is the feeling that precedes the urge to vomit. It may be caused
by gastroenteritis (food poisoning, bacterial or viral infections),
emotional stress and anxiety, early pregnancy, gallstones, Crohn=
s disease, migraines, and heart attack. Another major source of nausea is
motion sickness, which is caused by excessive stimulation of the
semicircular canals in the inner ear. The uneven or rhythmic motions
associated with ships, airplanes, and automobiles generate the stimulation
that can cause motion sickness.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Medications are available that can reduce the sensitivity of the
motion-detecting nerves in the ear. Also for motion sickness, sit in the
middle of the bus, ship, or airplane, and do not read. Eat light, low fat,
starchy meals. There are acupressure points for relieving nausea. Avoid
strong odors, such as tobacco smoke, perfumes, and cleaning supplies.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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Neuropathy
OVERVIEW
Neuropathy is an ailment of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)
characterized by swelling and degeneration of the nerves. The PNS is made up
of three types of nerves: motor (voluntary movement), sensory (sensing
temperature, pain, touch, and limb positioning), and autonomic (involuntary
functions, including breathing, blood pressure, sexual function, and
digestion). Neuropathy has many causes, including diabetes, nutritional
deficiencies (vitamins B1, B12), alcohol, poisons, heavy metals (arsenic,
lead, mercury), autoimmune diseases (Guillain-Barré syndrome), carpel tunnel
syndrome, heredity, and some medications. The primary symptoms are numbness
and tingling in the hands and feet, burning pain, and muscle weakness, but
organ systems can also be affected, including cardiovascular (hypotension),
sexual (impotence), and digestive (nausea, alternating diarrhea and
constipation). Many people with diabetes develop neuropathy.
VITAMINS & MINERALS*
OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*
HERBS*
COMMENTS
Avoid toxic chemicals and heavy metals. Exercise regularly. Acupuncture
treatments may help. A few prescription medications can cause nerve damage.
Very high doses of vitamin B6 (usually over 500 mg), especially when not
taken with other B-vitamins, can cause reversible peripheral neuropathy.
*See The Nutraceutical Reference
Guide for dosages and cautions.
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