ALETRIS Natural Wellness & Organic Beauty

Hemochromatosis

2008-03-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Hemochromatosis is the most common of the iron storage diseases, and the hereditary form of hemochromatosis is the most common genetic disorder in the United States. Symptoms of this disease may include joint pain, fatigue, abdominal pain, heart and liver disease. Women are often not diagnosed until around the age of 50. This makes sense because in menopause women are no longer losing iron through their menses and their hemoglobin and iron will show elevations on routine blood work.

High rates of iron storage diseases are found in the southwestern states because of the amount of iron in our ground water and soil. Additionally, iron is fortified in many foods including some brands of breads, cereals and pasta. Vitamin C supplementation can be very detrimental to someone with hemochromatosis because it increases iron absorption.

Treatments for hemochromatosis include phlebotomy, avoidance of Vitamin C, nutritional supplementation and diet modification. Early detection and treatment are very effective and are essential to the prevention of heart and liver disease.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

GERD

2008-03-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced pain in your chest, trouble swallowing and a sour taste in your mouth? If so, you may be suffering from GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux syndrome. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle connecting your esophagus to your stomach, weakens and allows stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus. This can cause irritation to the esophageal lining and a burning sensation in your chest and esophagus.

Prolonged and untreated heartburn can lead to inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus. GERD can also increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

The following is a list of just a few of the foods and medications that can weaken the LES: coffee, tea, cow’s milk, alcohol, onions, peppermint, birth control pills, blood pressure medication, pain killers and anti-anxiety medication.

ALETRIS naturopaths are adept at treating the underlying causes of GERD and preventing further damage to the gastro-intestinal system. Our treatment includes herbal medicines to heal the lining of the esophagus and digestive stimulants to promote the appropriate closure of the LES.

Blood Test for BREAST CANCER

2008-03-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

The statistics are astounding: Every year 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 women will die from breast cancer. Early detection is crucial because in its early stages, treatable breast cancers can have over a 5 year 95% survival rate.

The Biomarker Translation Test, or “BT Test” is a new blood test that when used in conjunction with mammography may aid in the early detection of breast cancer. The BT test measures specific protein biomarkers in the blood that are associated with cancerous activity. The results are analyzed along with personal health history and women are given an individualized “BT score.” This exciting new test has been tested for accuracy and has indicated an accuracy of over 81%.

The BT Test is not a substitution for mammography, but is an additional tool to detect early breast cancers. Because breast cancers are easily missed with mammography, especially in women who have dense breast tissue, the BT Test is an excellent addition to conventional breast imaging.

MSG Under Cover

2008-03-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

For those of you who avidly check food labels in grocery stores, you probably try to avoid monosodium glutamate, more commonly known as MSG. When eaten in any amount, this flavor enhancer is implicated in headaches, sweating, sense of facial tightness, numbness and tingling around the mouth, heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness or breath, nausea and weakness.

Analyzing food labels can be really tricky because MSG has numerous other aliases! For example, hydrolyzed soy protein and autolyzed yeast are other names for MSG. Most protein bars, including ones that claim to be healthy and low in carbs contain these products.

At ALETRIS, we advocate a whole foods diet that is high in organic proteins, fiber and vegetables. We counsel patients on the importance of eliminating processed foods to attain optimum health. A quick and easy tool when perusing the grocery store is to steer clear from any product containing a long list of ingredients. Remember, just because you are buying from a health food store doesn’t mean it’s healthy!

EXERCISE Intensity

2008-03-14T16:07:00.000-07:00

At ALETRIS, we often see women who want to lose weight and stay slim as they age. One obstacle we face as naturopathic physicians is changing women’s perceptions of how vigorous their exercise regimes need to be to truly see results. The 20 minute walk with the dogs or the laid-back weight lifting program twice a week is a nice start, but is never the end goal.

In support, new research conducted by Berkeley Lab followed 6,119 men and 2,221 women who maintained their weekly running mileage (to within three miles per week) over a seven-year period. In summary, the men and women who ran over 30 miles per week gained half the weight of those who ran less than 15 miles per week as they aged. It seems that individuals that engage in more vigorous exercise regimes keep weight off better than those who engage in only moderate exercise programs.

For all of our patients, helping them work towards higher and higher levels of exercise intensity is the goal at ALETRIS. We help them understand the amount of hard work required to change their bodies.

Heavy Metals & Childhood OBESTIY

2008-03-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

Recent research by a University of Houston professor has discovered a link between lead exposure in the womb and increased obesity in male children later in adulthood. Donald Fox stumbled onto this conclusion after experimenting with lead’s effects on the retina. To confirm his observations, Fox undertook an 18 month study exposing pregnant mice to varying levels of lead in their drinking water. Mice that exposed their fetus to lead while pregnant had male offspring that grew up to be obese. This new findings may influence the CDC to lower acceptable lead levels in water even further.

Naturopathic physicians have long understood the effects of heavy metal exposure on children’s behavioral and developmental characteristics. We now understand that exposures in the fetus can change children’s health permanently as they develop into adulthood. We advise women who want to become pregnant to test for heavy metal levels and detoxify them out of their systems before trying to conceive.

Why CASH PAY is a GOOD Thing

2008-03-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

“I wish my insurance company covered naturopathic medicine” is a statement we frequently hear. The truth is, there are many reasons why ALETRIS would not take insurance even if the option was available.

First, when a medical clinic decides to accept insurance, each physician signs a contract with that insurance agency. Elements of that contract dictate how often a physician can see a patient, how much time a physician can spend with a patient, what types of treatments are allowed and how much the insurance company will reimburse the physician.

In a facility accepting insurance, for example, a patient suffering from depression and fatigue would be immediately prescribed an anti-depressant medication. The insurance company will pay the physician for 15 minutes worth of work to diagnose the depression and then discuss the medication.

With naturopathic treatment, a patient with depression and fatigue may require a one and a half hour visit so that the underlying cause of the condition can be determined and treated. If a naturopathic physician were to ask an insurance compnay for reimbursement for that 90 minute visit, they would be paid by allopathic standards and would receive the same $60 that a MD would receive for a 15 minute (or less) visit. $60 per 90 minutes will never cover expenses.

So what would naturopaths have to do in order to have a successful practice while taking insurance? They would have to start practicing more and more like traditional doctors – spending less time with each patient and giving “pharmaceutical-industry” recommendations. They may have to go from seeing six patients a day to seeing twenty or thirty. Other naturopathic doctors may focus their practice on more expensive procedures like prolotherapy or IV therapy to try to make up for costs.

In addition to setting requirement for the physicians, the insurance agency has the right to look inside a patient’s chart at any time, for any reason. This may not seem like a problem until you suspect cancer or heart disease and wish to evaluate those issues before using insurance to cover treatments. One element our patients love about our practice is that can be truly is anonymous.

We prefer to have patients use insurance for labwork, imaging, or other procedures as necessary and pay cash for their visits. Some patients with insurance even choose to pay cash for certain tests so that their insurance company does not have record of their results.

In the end, naturopathic patients see the true value in the time, energy, and money it saves them to address the issue instead of chasing symptoms. Not taking insurance guarantees the personalized care that so many of our patients love.

In this day and age, insurance and drug companies are dictating the way medicine and treatment are carried out in the United States. Choosing to engage in a different system – one that empowers patients and puts doctors back at the top of the decision making tree – is the best vote you could make with your dollar.

CATS & Heart Health

2008-03-06T14:41:00.000-08:00

Many of us have lovable cats and playful dogs who we look forward to coming home to every day. They shower us with happiness, unconditional love, a sense of security and friendship. Even though pets can be demanding, the stress relief that they bring to us may be beneficial for our heart health.

New research presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference suggests that heart attack risk may be reduced by having a cat in the house.

Over 4,000 Americans between the ages of 30 and 75 were tracked for over 20 years. All were free of cardiovascular disease when they entered the study in the 1970s. More than half of the people surveyed own or have owned a cat. The remainder had never owned cats. Researchers tracked death rates from heart attack and other causes. The evidence showed that cat owners had 30% lower death rates by heart attack than those who had never owned a cat. No such correlation was made among dog owners.

If you are already a lover of kitties, think about making one of these furry friends a part of your family. Who knows…your heart may be healed in more ways than one!

Type II DIABETES

2008-03-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

In the United States, over 18 million people, representing 6% of the total population, have diabetes mellitus. Out of those with diabetes, 5 million remain undiagnosed and about 90% have type II diabetes.

It is estimated that 85% of people diagnosed with type II diabetes are overweight. In addition, it is considered inevitable that individuals who are 30+% overweight will become diabetic. Type II diabetes is caused by an impaired ability of the body to utilize insulin. Insulin resistance and deficiency causes a dangerous rise in blood sugar, which can lead to serious complications including heart disease, peripheral neuropathy, blindness, limb amputations and kidney failure.

Western and naturopathic doctors include diabetes in their differential diagnoses if any of the following symptoms are present: excess urination, excess thirst, excess hunger, weight loss, vision changes, peripheral numbness or tingling, fatigue, slow healing sores, and/or an increase in infections.

Risk factors for type II diabetes include obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, family history of diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and ethnicity. Western doctors treat type II diabetes with diet, exercise, oral hypoglycemic drugs, and insulin when necessary.

In contrast, naturopaths emphasize diet, nutrition and exercise and use oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin when necessary. Additionally, naturopaths prescribe vitamins, minerals and herbs to help the body utilize insulin and protect vital organs. Type II diabetes is preventable and treatable when patients are invested in their own health care and well being.

Lipoprotein A & Cardiovascular Disease

2008-03-01T08:58:00.000-08:00

At ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine, our goal is to educate patients about preventative medicine. Cardiovascular disease is always a popular topic with our patients simply because the average American is more likely to die of heart disease than any other disease.

Beyond cholesterol, there are many more blood markers that may predict one's risk of heart disease. One less-known risk factor is lipoprotein a. Lipoprotein a, also called Lp-a, is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a better predictor than the more well known LDL cholesterol marker.

Lp-a is carried on the LDL molecule and tells us how “sticky” the LDL is. In other words, the higher the Lp-a level, the higher the risk that LDL will be placed in the artery wall and eventually cause blockage. Blocked arteries eventually cause strokes and heart attacks, the top two killers in the US.

The good news is that specific diets as well as supplementation will reduce Lp-a levels in at-risk patients. At ALETRIS Center, we run all cardiovascular risk factors in order to determine our individual patients’ risks. Caught early, a patient’s risk for heart disease can be drastically reduced.

STROKE in Younger Women

2008-02-29T06:53:00.000-08:00

Middle aged women are too young to be suffering from strokes!

New research shows an increase of strokes in women between the ages of 35 and 54. In a survey done between the years of 1988 and 1994, 0.5% of women in the above age bracket reported to have suffered a stroke. In a more recent survey, conducted from 1999 to 2004 an astounding 2% of women between 35 and 54 reported to have had a previous stroke.

Two percent may seem like a small number, but remember, we are talking about young and middle aged women. Traditionally it was thought that women’s risk of stroke increases 5-10 years after menopause, so why are we seeing strokes in younger women? The researchers attribute this finding to increased abdominal fat, higher BMI (or body mass index) and higher blood sugar.

It is never too early to assess your cardiovascular and stroke risk factors. Eating a healthy diet consisting of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, fiber, essential fats and an abundance of vegetables is a great way to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Exercising 4 days a week and not smoking are crucial to maintaining the health of your heart and blood vessels.

At Aletris Center of Integrative Medicine, we use progressive lab tests and imaging to assess risk factors associated with current and potential heart disease which may lead to strokes. It is never too late to engage yourself in your own health care and seek the help of a well-trained naturopathic physician.

CELEBREX Causes Irreguar Heartbeat?

2008-02-27T15:09:00.000-08:00

Researchers have just discovered that Celebrex, a popular drug used to treat arthritis, has been shown to promote arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythms. Researchers at University of Buffalo made this unexpected discovery while conducting simple research on potassium channels in the heart.

They found that in animals, very small amounts (corresponding to prescription doses) induced pronounced arrhythmias by inhibiting potassium channels in the heart. This research comes on the heels of more extensive research linking this class of pain killers to other forms of heart disease. Vioxx, the sister drug of Celebrex, was taken off the market in September 2004.

Sohat’s the bottom line? All medications come with side effects and researchers are always discovering new ways that drugs inhibit normal functions in the body. At ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine, our goal is to reduce or eliminate the number of drugs on which our patients must rely. Using botanical medicines, vitamins, or food to achieve the same results is always preferable.

Inflammation & HEART DISEASE

2008-02-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

Inflammation is inflammation is inflammation. Naturopathic physicians have understood this principle for years, yet conventional researchers are just starting to investigate how inflammation in different parts of the body is connected. For example, a Mayo Clinic study published in the February 2005 issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism details the link between rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory arthritis) and increased risk of unrecognized heart disease and cardiac sudden death.

Inflammation anywhere in the body will ultimately travel through the blood vessels and damage them. Therefore, we can make the assumption that increases in inflammation anywhere in the body will increase our risk of the number one killer in the US: Heart Disease.

What exactly is inflammation? On a biochemical level, inflammation means the production of free radials, which are unpaired electrons that bounce around and damage any other molecules in their path. In the bloodstream, inflammation nicks the inside walls of blood vessels and causes plaque and calcium build up there. This causes sclerosis, a closing of the arteries, which can ultimately lead to stroke or heart attack.

At ALETRIS Center of Integrative medicine, we evaluate levels of inflammation in each and every patient. Allowing excess inflammation in our patients would ultimately lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Please visit us or give us a call to learn how simple blood tests can help you assess your individual risk for inflammation and heart disease.

Healthy Weight for FERTILITY

2008-02-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

According to recent research published in Human Reproduction, as a woman’s BMI (or body mass index) increases, her fertility decreases. The study found that for every BMI unit over 29 kg/m2, the probability of pregnancy was reduced by 4 percent. Very obese women with a BMI between 35 and 40 had a pregnancy probability that was 26-43% lower than those with a BMI below 29.

The researchers postulate that being obese disrupts the endocrine system. One hormone which is produced by fat cells called leptin may be the culprit, as evidence shows that leptin may influence sex hormone production directly from the ovaries.

A healthy weight is essential for having an easy pregnancy and birthing experience, and weight loss is a key component of naturopathic fertility treatment in women with elevated BMI levels. Regular moderate exercise, diet modification and customized supplementation is still the healthiest way to lose weight for long term results.

Want to know your BMI? Use this handy tool from the Department of Health and Human Services. BMI CALCULATOR

HPV and STRESS

2008-02-20T16:50:00.000-08:00

It is estimated that 75% of all sexually active women have been exposed to human papilloma virus (HPV) at some point in their lives. Although this infection can be cleared over time, common HPV subtypes can lead to cervical cancer. The overall health of our immune system is a good indicator of potential disease resolution or progressive cervical dysplasia.

It is well known among naturopathic physicians that stress, diet, exercise and overall lifestyle patterns can immensely affect the health of our immune system. New research conducted by Fang et al., looked at perceived daily life stressors among women and its effect on HPV resolution. A total of 74 women were questioned with regard to their daily life stressors, and those with more perceived daily stress were linked to lowered immune responses to HPV. Interestingly, there was no association found with regard to immune response to HPV and a single major stressful event.

Naturopaths believe that chronic stress can have adverse affects on the digestive, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and endocrine systems in addition to the immune system. It is also notable that women who have an abnormal pap do not necessarily need to resort to cryotherapy or LEEP procedures, as HPV can be cleared through natural therapies. At ALETRIS, we provide comprehensive medical testing, naturopathy and acupuncture to clear HPV, bring balance to the body and alleviate the response to daily stress.

27 ORGANIC Fruits & Veggies

2008-02-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

"Buying organic produce is so expensive," We often hear, and it's certainly true that organic produce is often two to three times more expensive than regular fruits and vegtables.

To help you decide when to be frugal and when to splurge, we want to share a list of produce most contaminated with high levels of pesticides and herbicides. We urge you to purchase these fruits and vegetables organically at any cost.

FRUITS
Strawberries
Raspberries
Apples
Grapes
Raisins
Peaches
Nectarines
Apricots
Pears
Cherries
Lemons
Limes
Bananas
Kiwis
Cantaloupes
Tomatoes

VEGETABLES
Potatoes
Carrots
Corn
Celery
Cucumber
Spinach
Green & Red Bell Peppers
Lettuce
Green Beans
Squash

We recommend copying or printing this list to carry with you while grocery shopping.

Coming Soon! Saliva Test for Breast Cancer

2008-02-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

Scientists in Houston are developing a saliva test to identify specific proteins found in breast cancers. In the future, this could provide us with an inexpensive and non-invasive tool to detect early cancers of the breast.

Cancerous tumors produce proteins that affect cell growth, cell metabolism and cell death. According to an article in the journal Cancer Investigation, “breast cancer triggers a change in the type and amount of proteins in secretions from the salivary glands.” The authors studied 30 women, 10 healthy, 10 with benign breast tumors and 10 with malignant breast cancer. After testing the samples, they identified differences in proteins among the three groups. Future studies are necessary in order to assess the reliability of saliva testing for breast cancers.

Naturopathic physicians educate women on the importance of maintaining their breast health and reducing risks associated with breast cancer. At ALETRIS, we offer a variety of progressive lab testing and imaging in order to analyze a woman’s breast health. As with other cancers, early detection of breast abnormality is conducive to more effective natural treatments.

Acupuncture for FERTILITY

2008-02-12T09:22:00.000-08:00

A recent study out of the University of Maryland investigated the effects of combining acupuncture with in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the treatment of infertility. Researchers found that women who received traditional acupuncture before and/or after IVF were 65% more likely to become pregnant than those who received random needling, or sham acupuncture. Additionally, the rate of live births was twice as high among women treated with traditional acupuncture than those who were treated with sham acupuncture.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats infertility by restoring balance, whether the underlying cause is due to organ deficiency, stagnant energy, or inadequate blood and qi. Acupuncturists place needles along specific meridians in order to promote the smooth flow of energy and treat imbalances within these meridians and organs. Treatment plans are individualized according to patient symptoms and pulse and tongue observation.

If you would like to schedule an acupuncture treatment or complimentary 15-minute consultation with our naturopathic acupuncturist, please call ALETRIS at 480-443-7168 or email info@aletriscenter.com.

The BIG 3 Skincare Ingredient Offenders

2008-02-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

Skincare products labeled "organic" or "natural" are popular for good reason, but many of these products are not actually good for our skin. Parabens, sodium laurel sulfate (SLS) and propylene glycol are skin irritants often found in even the most luxurious product lines.

PARABENS are preservatives commonly listed as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Allergies, skin irritation, biochemical changes, neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption are symptoms linked to these ingredients.

SLS is a cleansing agent found in shampoos, facial and body cleansers, toothpastes and other foaming products. This ingredient is linked to skin irritation, developmental/organ system/reproductive toxicity and cancer.

PROPYLENE GLYCOL is an inexpensive, mass-produced petroleum derivitave often found in skin and haircare products, deodorants and toothpastes. Irritation, gastro-intestinal disturbances, nausea, headache, vomiting, and central nervous system depression are possbile side effects of long-term exposure.

Remember: Just because you find it at the local natural foods or luxury department store doesn't mean you don't have to check the label!

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

CHANTIX Alternatives

2008-02-04T12:26:00.000-08:00

The FDA recently issued a warning that the smoking cessation drug Chantix may increase mood swings and suicide. The FDA has already confirmed 39 suicides of patients taking the drug. The smoking cessation drug also accounts for 420 individuals reporting mood changes such as anxiety, nervousness, tension, suicidal behavior, and suicidal thoughts.

Chantix works by partially blocking nicotinic receptors in the brain. This receptor is where nicotine from cigarettes acts, causing a release of dopamine. Dopamine is the main neurotransmitter involved in the pleasure/reward pathway. It also plays a role in other brain functions like sleep, mood, attention, and learning.

From a naturopathic perspective, the plant Lobelia inflata works the same way Chantix does without the side effects of mood disturbance or suicide. Naturopathic physicians also work with patients on cognitive and behavioral changes, lifestyle modifications, and encourage patients to use the patch.

Acupuncture has also shown to be very effective for smoking cessation. It works by stimulating points that control cravings. At ALETRIS, we perform acupuncture in conjunction with a holistic plan to help our patients quit smoking for the final time.

Birth Control Options

2008-02-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

Birth control pills can cause a variety of problems.

Today, there are many safer birth control options available.

The male and female condom not only prevents pregnancy if used correctly, but also prevents the transmission of HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV and the correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).” When used correctly, latex condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy from occurring. If cost is an issue, you can check your local Planned Parenthood for male and female condoms at lower costs.

Another option for birth control is the FemCap and the diaphragm. The FemCap is a non-latex, non-allergenic silicone rubber cap that is placed over the cervix to prevent sperm from going into the uterus. The dDiaphragm is a natural rubber cup with a flexible rim. Both the FemCap and the Diaphragm must be used in conjunction with a spermicide. When used perfectly, the FemCap is estimated to be up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. The diaphragm is estimated to be 80-94% effective when used consistently and correctly. Neither the FemCap nor the Diaphragm prevent the transmission of HIV or other STIs. They should be used along with a condom when having sex with multiple partners or a partner who has not been recently tested.

Fertility awareness is another option to avoid pregnancy if you are in a monogamous relationship and if you have regular menstrual cycles. Fertility awareness involves charting your menstrual cycles, your basal body temperature and monitoring your cervical mucus. This information is used as a guide to predict fertile and unfertile days of the month. For more information, please visit gardenoffertility.com and the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control and Pregnancy Achievement by Toni Weschler.

At Aletris Center of Integrative Medicine, we provide patients with comprehensive information regarding natural forms of birth control and fertility awareness practices.

ADRENAL FATIGUE & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

2008-01-31T08:53:00.000-08:00

A recent article in The New York Times newspaper reports findings from a study in The Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism. Researchers measured morning cortisol levels in male and female test subjects with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and in subjects without CFS. Although cortisol levels were unremarkable across the male subjects, the female subjects with CFS were found to have lower levels of cortisol than those without CFS.

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that becomes elevated in individuals with acute stress. Cortisol elevates blood sugar levels, raises blood pressure, and suppresses the immune system to help the body cope with stress.

After prolonged periods of stress, however, the adrenal gland fatigues and is unable to produce enough cortisol. Individuals with low cortisol levels are said to have “adrenal fatigue.” Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include blood sugar dysregulation and hypoglycemia, low blood pressure, allergies, asthma, autoimmune disease and fatigue. Adrenal fatigue is one cause of chronic fatigue syndrome.

From a naturopathic perspective, having the right amount of cortisol is necessary for optimum health. At ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine, we measure cortisol levels in patients, especially those with general fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome. Our treatment strategies are focused on restoring healthy cortisol levels and include nutriceuticals, botanical medicine, acupuncture, and natural hormone therapy.

Caffeine Raises Blood Sugar

2008-01-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

A study reported in the February issue of Diabetes Care showed that caffeine raises blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It seems that blood sugar was most notably higher after meals, when blood sugar is normally at its highest. Subjects had a 9% increase after breakfast, 15% after lunch, and 26% increase after dinner compared to baselines.

The test subjects took 500 mg of caffeine during the study, which equals 4 small cups of coffee.

Caffeine, the active alkaloid in coffee, stimulates elevated blood glucose via two routes. First it inhibits the transfer of glucose from the blood stream into cells. Second, it raises adrenaline levels in the body. Elevated adrenaline levels stimulate the liver to produce and release sugar into the blood stream.

At ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine, we see a lot of patients attached to their daily cups of coffee. These patients may not be diabetic, but they often have fasting blood glucoses that are high normal. Over time, these “high normal” levels of blood sugar age us faster than usual.

Patients with high normal blood sugars are typically at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, macular degeneration (progressive blindness in the elderly), and mood imbalances.

To have your blood sugar levels tested and discuss whether caffeine or other lifestyle risk factors may play a part in the aging process, please contact us at ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine.

The Truth about Birth Control Pills

2008-01-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Worldwide, the birth control pill has given millions of women control over their reproduction. As technology continues to progress, oral contraception also has become much safer to use then it once was. Currently, there are pills on the market that have smaller and smaller amounts of hormone in them, whereas earlier birth control pills were implicated in much higher rates of blood clots and strokes.

However, there are still many risks associated with oral contraceptives (OCs). For example, OC’s deplete many of our essential vitamins, including folic acid, B12, B6, B2, vitamin C and zinc. Deficiency of these vitamins can lead to cervical dysplasia, depression, and birth defects. Additionally, OC’s increase the risk of heart disease, breast cancer, and bone fractures. Women on OC’s are especially at risk for developing a blood clot during a long plane ride, and during surgery. Sedentary women, women over 40, and smokers also have increased risk.

Birth control pills also elevate a blood protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). This protein can bind to testosterone and thyroid hormone in the blood leading to deficiency symptoms. Testosterone deficiency commonly manifests as a low libido in women, and low thyroid levels can present as an intolerance to cold, constipation, or fatigue.

Also note worthy is that OC’s can increase vaginal glycogen, a storage form of sugar, and predispose women to vaginal yeast infections.

At ALETRIS, we believe in discussing the risks of birth control pills in depth with each patient. Other options may be more desirable than hormonal contraception, given their side effects. Please consult with your doctor regarding the safest birth control methods for you.

Blood Test for COLON CANCER

2008-01-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, affecting men and women equally. Age, meat consumption, constipation, and genetics are all risk factors for colon cancer. Colon cancer arises from intestinal polyps, or growths, that enlarge continuously over time. Some polyps will never turn into cancer, but others will. The only way to know if a polyp is cancerous is to remove and biopsy them during a colonoscopy.

Currently, the only screening test available for colon cancer is the colonoscopy – a procedure that involves sedation. A new blood test, called CCSA-2 (colon cancer specific antigen 2), is showing promising results in early research. It seems that this protein is found in the blood of those individuals with high risk polyps and absent in those with low risk polyps. Results have shown that, overall, the test has a 91% specificity, meaning that 9% of cancers were missed by the test.

The current recommendation of waiting every 10 years for a colonoscopy may be too long to wait for those individuals who develop fast-growing colon cancers. Even with it's 9% miss rate, a CCSA-2 blood test run every year may catch more cancers and save more lives than colonoscopy alone.

Contact ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine to learn more about this exciting new screening test for colon cancer. Direct access (cash-pay) testing is available.