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.

Osteoarthritis
(Degenerative Joint Disease)

Osteoarthritis (OA) is marked by inflammation and swelling of the bone joints. The joints affected include the neck and spine, hips, knees, and fingers and toes. Symptoms include stiffness and pain. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen in people in their 60s and older. It may be caused, in part, by the years of wear and tear on the joints, resulting in the cartilage deteriorating. Without the protective layer of cartilage, which is smooth and slippery, the bones of the joints rub together, causing the symptoms. Other causes of OA include joint injury and genetics. Also, more women than men get osteoarthritis.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin B3 (niacinamide); vitamin C; boron.
Less Helpful: vitamin E; copper; manganese; selenium.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: bromelain; chondroitin sulfate; CMO; glucosamine sulfate; guggulipid; MSM; SAMe; SOD.
Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: boswellia; cat= s claw; cayenne (topical); devil= s claw; ginger; stinging nettle; yucca.
Less Helpful:

Conventional treatment includes cold or heat (pads, bottles, baths), NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), corticosteroids, and surgery. Some alternative treatments include relaxation techniques, yoga, and acupuncture. If overweight, you should lose weight. Follow a low-impact (swimming or walking) exercise plan.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Osteoporosis is characterized by a generalized, progressive reduction of bone mass. Bones become more porous and are prone to fractures, especially those of the spine, hip, and wrist. Symptoms include back pain, loss of height (also stooped posture or dowager= s hump), and bone fractures. Risk factors include being a white female, inadequate calcium intake, sedentary lifestyle, early menopause, eating disorders (anorexia nervosa and bulimia), smoking, excessive alcohol use, genetics (family history), endocrine disorders (diabetes, hyperparathyroidism, hyper-thyroidism), and the chronic use of some medications, such as corticosteroids and barbiturates.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin C; vitamin D; vitamin K; boron; calcium; magnesium; manganese; silicon; strontium.
Less Helpful: copper; zinc.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: DHEA; essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6); soy isoflavonoids (ipriflavone).
Less Helpful: lysine.

HERBS*

More Helpful: black cohosh; red clover.
Less Helpful:

Conventional treatments include nutrients (calcium and vitamin D), hormones (raloxifene or estrogen-progesterone combinations for postmenopausal women; calcitonin; parathyroid injections), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain, and biphosphonates to increase bone mass. Other recommendations include weight-bearing and resistance exercises. Also, quit smoking and limit alcohol intake. Fluoride has been used for osteoporosis, and it does increase bone density. However, it seems to reduce bone strength, making it more brittle. Phosphorus is also necessary for bone structure, but the average diet already contains too much of it. Vegetarians are at lower risk for osteoporosis.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Overweight
(Obesity)

Obesity is a medical condition where there is too much body fat, and body weight is 20% more than the ideal, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) 30 or greater. (BMI measures the relationship of weight to height.) More than 30% of the U.S. population is now considered obese. Obesity increases the risk for many health conditions, including cancer (breast, colon, prostate), coronary artery disease, diabetes, gallstones, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and stroke. Factors that contribute to obesity include genetics, inactivity, diet (too much of the wrong foods), metabolism (hypothyroidism), medications (corticosteroids and certain antidepressants), and age.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: calcium.
Less Helpful: vitamin D; chromium.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: 5-HTP; 7-keto DHEA; conjugated linoleic acid; DHEA; glucomannan; guar gum; MCT; omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil); pyruvate.
Less Helpful: CoQ10; guggulipid; L-carnitine.

HERBS*

More Helpful: green tea.
Less Helpful: banaba; coleus forskohlii; garcinia cambogia.

Tips for losing weight include: eat less, exercise more; eat more fresh fruit, raw vegetables, and legumes; increase fiber intake; consume more low glycemic index foods; eat slowly and chew many times; don= t eat late in the evening; drink plenty of water (no sodas or fruit juices); eat a small handful of unsalted nuts 30 minutes before meals; build up muscles (they increase metabolism); do not multitask while eating; take food out of its container and put a portion on your plate (do not eat out of the container it came in if there is more than one serving); lose weight slowly (2 to 4 pounds per month); do not use food as a reward. Adding whey protein to your diet can help with weight loss.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Parasites (internal) are organisms that live in our intestinal tract. They depend on getting the nourishment they need from the food we eat. Internal parasites can range from the microscopic (amoebas, bacteria, fungi) to the visible (assorted worms, small and large). Parasites can cause a variety of symptoms, including those of the GI tract (gas, cramping, pain, diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite), and also fever, muscle pain, and fatigue. Most parasites come from contaminated food and water.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: propolis.
Less Helpful: probiotics.

HERBS*

More Helpful: garlic; goldenseal; oregano.
Less Helpful: ginger; grapefruit seed extract; olive leaf; pau d= arco; skullcap (Chinese).

Conventional treatment relies on various medications. To avoid becoming infested, observe proper food cleaning and handling (avoid cross-contamination from raw animal products), and cook food (especially animal products) thoroughly. Also, wash hands after handling pets.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Parkinson= s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive, degenerative neurologic disorder that affects muscle control. It is caused by the degeneration of a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This region of the brain is responsible for the production of the neurotransmitter, dopamine. Reduced dopamine production leads to reduced activation of the nerve cells responsible for normal muscle activity. Symptoms may start with infrequent blinking, lack of facial expression, and deliberateness of speech, then progress to trembling of the arms and legs, muscular rigidity, and poor balance, and finally resulting in the inability to walk or talk, paranoia, delirium, and dementia. The cause of Parkinson= s disease is unknown, but possible factors include genetics, exposure to environmental poisons (pesticides and insecticides, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide, manganese), viral infection, head trauma, free radicals, and some medications.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin E.
Less Helpful: choline (CDP or GPC); vitamin C; vitamin D.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: CoQ10; NADH; octacosanol; phenylalanine.
Less Helpful: tyrosine.

HERBS*

More Helpful: green tea.
Less Helpful:

Treatment includes medications (L-dopa or levodopa, dopamine agonists, anticholinergics, antidepressants), physical therapy, and surgery. Drinking caffeinated beverages (coffee, cola, tea) reduces the risk for PD. Exercise regularly, such as walking. It is very important to stretch the muscles, making yoga very helpful.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Poor Circulation
(Intermittent Claudication)

Poor blood circulation is usually caused by atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), resulting in restricted blood supply to the muscles of the legs. Symptoms include muscle cramps, aches, and fatigue. Symptoms are usually brought on by physical exercise, and disappear a few minutes after resting from the activity. Risk factors for poor circulation include obesity, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin B3 (inositol hexanicotinate); vitamin E.
Less Helpful: vitamin C; magnesium.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: arginine; policosanol; propionyl-L-carnitine.
Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: butcher= s broom; ginkgo; gotu kola.
Less Helpful:

Besides reducing the risk factors listed above, treatment includes yoga, acupuncture, and massage. If you have a Adesk job,@ every hour get up and walk and stretch for a few minutes.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Premenstrual Syndrome
(PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome is a condition many women experience before menstruation. The actual cause is unknown. Nevertheless, factors contributing to it may include hormonal or neurotransmitter imbalances, stress, poor diet, excessive alcohol, caffeine, and salt intake, and a sedentary lifestyle. Symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, mood swings, food cravings, acne, and gastrointestinal problems (nausea, constipation, diarrhea).

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin B6; vitamin E; calcium; magnesium; manganese.
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: omega-6 fatty acid (GLA); theanine; tryptophan.
Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: butcher= s broom; chasteberry; dong quai; ginkgo; St. John= s wort.
Less Helpful:

Conventional treatments include diuretics (to reduce fluid retention) and oral contraceptives (to balance hormones). Other treatments that may help include dietary changes (reduce alcohol, caffeine, and salt) and lifestyle changes (aerobic exercise, yoga, and meditation).

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Prostate Problems
(Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

Prostate problems affect most men, usually over the age of 50. The most common is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate is a walnut-sized gland, with the urethra passing through it. As the prostate enlarges, it restricts urinary flow. Symptoms include difficulties in urination, including nighttime urination (nocturia), weak stream, difficulty starting the stream, dribbling, and the inability to completely empty the bladder. There is also an increased risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: zinc.
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: beta-sitosterol.
Less Helpful: flaxseed oil.

HERBS*

More Helpful: pygeum; rye grass pollen extract; saw palmetto.
Less Helpful: garlic; prickly pear cactus; pumpkin seed oil; red clover; stinging nettle.

Conventional treatment includes medications to improve urine flow by relaxing the muscles around the prostate gland. Other medications can help to reduce the size of the prostate. However, some medications may cause erectile dysfunction or a decrease in libido. Surgery is also done to cut away excess prostate tissue. Recommendations include reducing alcohol intake, especially beer. There is an old amino acid formula (alanine, glycine, glutamic acid) that may help. Some yoga positions and regular exercise can help, but avoid bicycling, which may put pressure on the prostate.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by the rapid production of the skin cells, resulting in pink, raised patches of skin with white scales. Areas of the body commonly affected include the elbows, knees, and scalp, but psoriasis can appear on almost any part of the body. The cause is unknown, but genetics seems to play a role. Other factors contributing to psoriasis include emotional stress, infection, smoking, and an immune response to a disease. Light-skinned people are more at risk. Also, the joints can be affected, causing psoriatic arthritis.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin A; vitamin D (oral and topical).

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil).
Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: aloe vera (topical); cayenne (topical); gotu kola (topical); milk thistle.
Less Helpful: chamomile (topical); licorice (topical).

Conventional treatments include hydrocortisone ointments (corticosteroids), oral medications, and sunlight therapy. Bovine (cow) and shark cartilage may be helpful. Use natural moisturizers, especially ones containing significant amounts of aloe vera, plus chamomile and vitamins A and D). Try various stress reduction techniques.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Raynaud= s Disease and Phenomenon are disorders of the small arteries of the extremities, primarily of the fingers, but sometimes also the toes. They occur much more often in women than men. Spasms of the arteries cause the hands (and sometimes the feet) to become cold and numb, sometimes accompanied by a pins and needles sensation. With Raynaud= s disease, the cause is unknown, whereas with Raynaud= s phenomenon, the cause is secondary to another condition, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma. Symptoms can be triggered by cold, smoking, certain medications (for high blood pressure or migraines), and working with machines that vibrate (e.g., jackhammers). Symptoms may last for few minutes to several hours.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin B3 (inositol hexanicotinate).
Less Helpful: magnesium.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil).
Less Helpful: omega-6 fatty acid (GLA).

HERBS*

More Helpful: ginkgo.
Less Helpful:

Conventional treatment ranges from certain medications to surgery. Other recommendations include avoiding exposure to cold, giving up cigarettes and caffeine-containing products, and stress reduction. Finally, some over-the-counter medications, including decongestants, diet pills, and cold remedies, can trigger symptoms.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Retinopathy is an eye disorder of the small blood vessels (capillaries) of the retina. The two main causes are diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure). With diabetic retinopathy, there are two kinds (nonproliferative and proliferative). Nonproliferative retinopathy is characterized by leaky capillaries, whereas proliferative retinopathy has increased capillary formation. Hypertensive retinopathy develops from a thickening of the small arteries (arterioles), decreasing their response to light. As the disease progresses, the arterioles can also become leaky, further affecting vision. Symptoms of retinopathy include blurred and fluctuating vision, difficulty adjusting from bright to dim light, poor night vision, and floating specks in the eye. If left untreated, retinopathy can lead to blindness.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin E.
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: quercetin.

HERBS*

More Helpful: bilberry; ginkgo; grape seeds (OPCs), pine bark (pycnogenols).
Less Helpful:

Treatment includes more closely regulating blood sugar levels (if diabetic) or reducing blood pressure (if hypertensive). Laser treatment (photocoagulation) and surgery (vitrectomy) are also available. If you are a smoker, quit.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the joints. The immune system attacks the synovial membranes lining the joints, causing inflammation and increased release of synovial fluid. The synovial membrane becomes thickened and the joint swells, damaging the joint and restricting movement. Joints affected include those of the arms (hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders) and the legs (ankles, feet, knees). Rheumatoid arthritis usually appears between the ages 20 and 40, and more women than men are affected. Initial symptoms are general and include fatigue and poor appetite. As the disease progresses, there is pain and swelling, joint redness and warmth, and morning stiffness. Symptoms are usually experienced on both sides of the body (bilateral). Another form of the disease affects children (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis).

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: vitamin E.
Less Helpful: vitamin B5; copper; selenium; zinc.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: cetyl myristoleate; essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6).
Less Helpful: bromelain; SOD.

HERBS*

More Helpful: cat= s claw; cayenne (topical); ginger; turmeric.
Less Helpful: boswellia.

Conventional treatment includes medications to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease. Other therapies include hot or cold packs, gentle exercise (especially in water), and yoga. Food allergies may contribute to RA, so keep a food diary to determine if any food is causing flare-ups.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that causes the overproduction of collagen, a connective tissue. The result is abnormal deposits of scar tissue, mostly in the face and hands (limited scleroderma). Diffuse scleroderma occurs when it spreads to the internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive tract. Symptoms include changes in skin color, swollen hands and feet, skin thickening and tightening, problems involving the affected organs (if diffuse type), fatigue, and numb hands and feet (Raynaud= s disease). The people most likely to get scleroderma are middle-aged women. Diffuse scleroderma is more serious than the limited version, because of the internal organs being affected.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: PABA (Potaba).
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: MSM; omega-6 fatty acid (GLA).

HERBS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: gotu kola.

Some medications are available that help to slow the disease= s progression, as well as treating the symptoms created by the damaged internal organs. If a smoker, quit. Avoid toxic chemicals, such as paint thinners and other organic solvents. Exercise and stretching are helpful.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Shingles
(Herpes Zoster)

Shingles is caused by the same virus (varicella-zoster) that causes chicken pox. The virus usually lays dormant in the dorsal root ganglia nerve cells (neurons) of the spinal cord. The virus can be reactivated by emotional stress, physical trauma, or a serious illness. Initial symptoms can be fatigue, fever, or muscle soreness. The outbreak proceeds with pain, burning, and itching, followed by blisters and a rash. The area affected usually ranges from the upper spine around to one side of the chest, but the face, arms, and legs can also be involved. The whole outbreak may last for several weeks. Shingles is contagious for anyone who never had chicken pox. Pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems should also avoid anyone who is infected.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin B12 (injection); vitamin C; vitamin E (oral and topical).

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: propolis (topical).
Less Helpful: lysine; MSM (topical).

HERBS*

More Helpful: cayenne (topical).
Less Helpful: aloe vera (topical); licorice (topical).

Conventional treatment includes antiviral, pain relieving, and anti-inflammatory medications. There are also topical preparations to reduce the pain and itching. Natural ones include cayenne (capsaicin cream), which reduces pain (do not apply to open sores). Other creams or gels may include combinations of aloe vera and vitamin E, which will help with the pain and itching, and also accelerate the healing process. Colloidal oatmeal added to bath water can help to reduce the itching. Also, using cold, wet compresses can soothe the affected area.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses (hollow spaces in the bones around the nose and eyes). Sometimes the sinuses cannot drain because the openings (ostia) become blocked. The blockage may be caused by an upper respiratory infection (e.g., common cold), dental infection, allergies, or atmospheric pressure changes (air travel or underwater swimming). Nasal polyps also increase the chance of getting sinusitis. The accumulated mucus allows for the growth of bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pressure builds up, causing pain around the eyes and cheeks, and also headache, fever, and breathing difficulties.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin A; vitamin C.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: bromelain; serrapeptase.
Less Helpful: bioflavonoids.

HERBS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: echinacea; eucalyptus (vapor); garlic.

Conventional treatment includes medications, such as antibiotics, decongestants, and corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation). Other treatments include irrigation of the sinuses with saline or other solutions (colloidal silver, grapefruit seed extract, xylitol). Steam vaporizers and warm compresses offer relief. Drink plenty of water. It also helps to avoid smoke, other pollutants, and allergens.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Stroke
(Cerebrovascular Accident; CVA)

Strokes are caused when there is a decrease in the brain= s blood flow. One cause is a blood clot (embolus), which blocks blood flow (ischemic stroke). Sometimes a person will experience a ministroke (transient ischemic attack; TIA), with stroke-like symptoms lasting less than a day. About four out of five strokes are of the ischemic type. Another cause of strokes is a rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, causing pressure on the surrounding blood vessels, reducing blood flow (hemorrhagic stroke). Atherosclerosis and hypertension are primary contributors to ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, respectively. When there is an interrupted blood flow in an area of the brain, that part is starved of oxygen, resulting in tissue death. Symptoms can include paralysis, weakness, speech and comprehension difficulties, and if not treated quickly enough, death. Prompt medical attention is critical.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: choline (CDP and GPC); calcium; potassium.
Less Helpful: vitamin E; magnesium.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil); glycine (sublingual).
Less Helpful: acetyl-L-carnitine; vinpocetine.

HERBS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: ginkgo; green tea.

These nutraceuticals may be helpful for prevention, treatment, or dealing with the aftereffects of an ischemic stroke. People at risk for a hemorrhagic stroke should avoid nutraceuticals that thin the blood, such as fish oil, garlic, ginkgo, vitamin E, and many others. Ischemic strokes are treated with blood thinners and clot busters. Hemorrhagic strokes are treated by lowering blood pressure and using medications to reduce brain swelling. Lessen the chance of getting a stoke by making lifestyle changes, such as lowering blood pressure, stopping smoking, reducing high cholesterol, dietary improvements, stress reduction, and appropriate exercise.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Tinnitus is a persistent sound (ringing, buzzing, roaring) that is internal to the ear and is only sensed by the person hearing it. It may be continuous, intermittent, or pulsate, and may be accompanied by hearing loss. Tinnitus can be caused by almost any problem concerning the ear (e.g., Meniere= s disease), as well as ear wax, ear infection, TMJ, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, tumors, head trauma, certain medications (aspirin, antibiotics, diuretics, quinine), allergies, hypothyroidism, caffeine, and prolonged exposure to loud noises.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin B12; zinc.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: melatonin; vinpocetine.

HERBS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: ginkgo.

If the cause of tinnitus cannot be determined and eliminated, assorted stress reduction techniques may offer help. Reduce intakes of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and salt. Limit the use of aspirin. Avoid loud noises and music. Some acupressure, acupuncture, and yoga techniques may be helpful. If tinnitus affects your sleep, try using a white noise or ambient sound generator.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Peptic ulcers are sores in the protective mucous linings of the upper GI tract. Peptic ulcers develop in three regions, most often in the duodenum (the beginning part of the small intestine), then the stomach, and occasionally, the esophagus. Ulcers are caused by a variety of agents, including bacterial infections (Helicobacter pylori), chronic use of some drugs (aspirin and NSAIDs), and regular intake of alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes. Ulcers also tend to run in the family, either because of genetics or inherited lifestyle. Symptoms of peptic ulcers include burning and bloating sensations in the upper abdominal area, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Duodenal ulcers produce symptoms several hours after the meal, and symptoms are often relieved by eating. With gastric ulcers, symptoms appear shortly after eating. Other evidence of peptic ulcers is black, tarry, or bloody stools.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: zinc.
Less Helpful: vitamin A; vitamin C.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: mastic gum.
Less Helpful: citrus bioflavonoids; glutamine; quercetin.

HERBS*

More Helpful: cayenne; licorice (DGL).
Less Helpful: aloe vera; bacopa; bilberry; garlic; gotu kola.

Conventional treatment includes antacids, antibiotics, histamine H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated sodas, and coffee. Do not smoke. Eat unripe bananas or plantain. Drink raw cabbage juice (contains glutamine). Increase intake of high fiber foods, and decrease intake of fatty foods. Eat smaller meals. Try various stress reduction techniques.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Underactive Thyroid
(Hypothyroidism)

Hypothyroidism is caused by decreased activity of the thyroid gland resulting in underproduction of thyroid hormones. In the past, before iodine was added to salt, iodine deficiency was a primary cause of hypothyroidism and goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). Now, many cases of hypothyroidism are attributed to an autoimmune disease. Another cause is destruction or removal of the thyroid because of cancer or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). When production of thyroid hormones is inadequate, there is a reduction of metabolic activity. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, low blood pressure, dry skin and hair, constipation, elevated blood cholesterol, menstrual problems, depression, and memory problems. Hypothyroidism is more common in women.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful: iodine.
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: tyrosine.
Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: kelp (source of iodine).
Less Helpful: coleus forskohlii.

Treatment often involves hormone replacement with either natural or synthetic thyroid hormone. Avoid raw cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, collard greens, kale), which contain goitrogens (suppress thyroid function). There is some concern that soy products may affect people with thyroid problems, especially underactive thyroid.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Urinary Tract Infections
(Cystitis; Pyelonephritis; Urethritis)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) mostly affect the bladder (cystitis) and the urethra (urethritis), but sometimes also the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Usually the infection is caused by the bacterium, Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the GI tract. UTIs are more common in women than men, primarily because the urethral opening is close to the anus (source of E. coli and other bacteria) and the vagina (may contain sexually transmitted diseases). Symptoms include frequent, urgent, and painful (burning) urination, cloudy and foul-smelling urine, and blood in the urine. If the kidneys become infected, there can also be symptoms of chills and fever, and pain in the side.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin C.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: D-mannose.
Less Helpful: probiotics (oral and vaginally).

HERBS*

More Helpful: cranberry; dandelion; uva ursi.
Less Helpful: goldenseal; stinging nettle.

Conventional treatment includes the use of antibiotics. The folk remedy of drinking cranberry juice has been scientifically proven as being both an effective treatment and preventative. Components in the juice make it harder for E. coli to adhere to the lining of the urinary tract. Drinking more water, and urinating directly after sexual intercourse, can also reduce the frequency of UTIs.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Varicose Veins
(Varicosities)

Varicose veins are enlarged veins caused by poorly functioning valves within the vein, allowing for blood to pool or backflow. They usually have a dark, purplish-blue color, bulge, are often twisted, and usually appear on the lower leg and ankle. Hemorrhoids are another form of varicose veins, and spider veins are just small versions. Varicose veins can be caused by inherent weaknesses in the vein walls (family history), pregnancy, obesity, and standing for prolonged periods of time. Chronic constipation can lead to hemorrhoids. Women are more likely to develop varicosities than men. Varicose veins may cause the legs to ache (deep veins) or develop ulcers. Deep varicose veins can also develop blood clots, which can have serious consequences.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: vitamin C.

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful: citrus bioflavonoids.

HERBS*

More Helpful: gotu kola.
Less Helpful: bilberry; butcher= s broom; grape seeds; horse chestnut.

Various surgical procedures are available for treating varicosities. Other treatments include avoiding standing for long periods of time, elevating the legs, and regular exercise (low impact). Try stretching exercises or yoga. If overweight, lose weight. Do not smoke cigarettes.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Vertigo
(Dizziness)

Vertigo is an extreme form of dizziness. Dizziness is defined as the inability to keep normal balance, and may be connected to nausea, mental confusion, or weakness. With vertigo, there is an accompanying sensation of spinning or rotation. Vertigo may be caused by a disturbance (inflammation or infection) of the balance organs located in the inner ear (semicircular canals and vestibular nuclei). Several conditions involving vertigo are Meniere= s disease, labyrinthitis, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. The first two conditions are treated with medications, and the latter condition can be treated in a medial office using the canalith repositioning procedure.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: vinpocetine.

Less Helpful:

HERBS*

More Helpful: ginger; ginkgo.
Less Helpful:

Avoid sudden changes in posture. If sitting, get up slowly. Do not turn your head quickly. If you smoke, stop. Try aromatherapy, such as lavender.

Yeast Infection
(Candidiasis)

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of various yeast species, including candida albicans. The yeast grows in moist environments, including the mouth (thrush), intestines (systemic yeast infection), buttocks (diaper rash), and the vagina (vaginitis). Symptoms of thrush include raised white patches in the mouth and throat. Vaginal yeast infections produce a thick, white discharge, along with vulvar itching, redness, and swelling. Systemic yeast infection may produce an array of nonspecific symptoms, including fatigue, allergies, depression, and digestive problems. Yeast overgrowth is associated with excessive use of certain antibiotics, and lowered immune states.

VITAMINS & MINERALS*

More Helpful:
Less Helpful:

OTHER SUPPLEMENTS*

More Helpful: prebiotics; probiotics.
Less Helpful: caprylic acid.

HERBS*

More Helpful: goldenseal.
Less Helpful: cinnamon; echinacea; grapefruit seed extract; oregano oil; tea tree oil (topical).

Conventional treatment involves the use of various antifungal drugs. For vaginitis, cotton underwear, without panty hose, is recommended, along with using cultured products (orally and vaginally). For systemic candidiasis, many dietary changes are advised, especially reducing carbohydrate intake.

*See The Nutraceutical Reference Guide for dosages and cautions.

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Last modified: 01/09/08