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Natural Support For Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Ultrachrome 500Ultrachrome is a superior form of chromium (4-oxopyridine, 2,6-dicarboxlate) that has the greatest effect on adipose (fat) tissue and insulin levels. It is three times more potent than chromium picolinate.

Ultra Chrome 500

Each Capsule contains: 500 mcg chromium as Ultrachrome.

Suggested dose 1 Capsule per day.

Dr. Myatt’s Super-Shake


The Healthiest “Milkshake” You’ll Ever Drink!

Did you ever wish that something like a rich, creamy milkshake could also be healthy? I’ve got great news for you!

I have found myself giving individual patients the recipe for what I call my “Super Shake” so frequently in the past few weeks that I realized it’s high time for me to encourage everybody to drink this incredibly tasty, amazingly healthy “milkshake.” (It can also be made as a pudding, too). Before I discuss the recipe and what the individual ingredients will do for you, let’s take a look at the overall health benefits of The Myatt Super Shake.

What My “Super Shake” Will Do for You

Taken at least once, and better yet twice per day, this tasty treat provides a basket full of health benefits. I’ll describe the “whys” and “wherefores” of individual ingredients below so you can see how my Super Shake works it’s “magic,” but first let’s look at all the good this amazing recipe accomplishes. I believe you’ll see why I recommend it so often in my practice.

  • If you are overweight, the Super Shake will help you lose.
  • If you are underweight, the Super Shake will help you gain.
  • The Super Shake helps preserve and build better muscle tone.
  • The Super Shake strengthens the immune system.
  • The Super Shake helps normalize blood sugar levels, so it improves both diabetes and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
  • Ingredients in The Super Shake help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Whey and gelatin in the Super Shake strengthen ligaments, tendons, and bones.
  • Antioxidants and protein contained in my Super Shake help renew, rejuvenate and heal skin.
  • Maxi Fiber and L-glutamine help normalize bowel function and correct constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • The Super Shake is high in flavonoids, especially the kind useful for preventing or halting eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and retinopathy.
  • These same flavonoids plus other ingredient work together to prevent and reverse varicose veins, atherosclerosis, neuropathy and neuralgia (nerve disease and nerve pain).
  • Whey and L-glutamine help protect normal cells during radiation and chemotherapy.
  • My Super Shake is so easily assimilated and so healthy that it is THE beverage of choice when recovering from illness or surgery. Whey is known to speed wound healing.

Best of all, this is a truly delicious drink or pudding, not a “choke-it-down” health concoction. Sound too good to be true? Here’s the recipe and an individual breakdown of the numerous benefits of each of the ingredients.

Dr. Myatt’s Super Shake Recipes:

1.) Our full original recipe:
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping teaspoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. flax oil
1 packet gelatin (which equals 1 TBS.)
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 teaspoon L-glutamine
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

2.) Our new, simplified recipe:
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping teaspoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 scoop Red Alert
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

This recipe gives you the equivalent of 10 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables!

3.) Our deluxe, full-meal-deal recipe: (Nurse Mark’s Every-Day Favorite!)
1 scoop vanilla whey protein (with both whey protein concentrate and isolate)
1 heaping tablespoon Maxi Fiber
1 TBS. frozen blueberries
1 scoop Red Alert
2 tablespoons Organic India psyllium
2 tablespoons fresh ground flax seed
1 egg
1 cup crushed ice
1 cup water (1 cup for a soft-serve ice cream consistency, 2 cups for a milkshake)

Add 1 cup ice (crushed is best) to the bottom of an electric blender. Add water. Add blueberries and all dry ingredients. Blend until smooth. This will be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. If you want it to be a “shake,” add an additional cup of water AFTER the first ingredients are well-blended. Drink or eat and Enjoy! You’re going to love this and so will your body!

This recipe provides a great helping of dietary fiber – perfect for weight loss dieters, diabetics, cholesterol management, and bowel regularity. With the added egg it is a full meal.

For all of these recipes, the secret to a creamy, smooth shake is to blend well.

To make your shake extra-creamy and rich try adding a quarter-cup of regular (not low-fat) yoghurt or kefir.

What’s in the “Super Shake” that Makes it So Great?

Let’s take a look at the individual ingredients and see why this Shake is a “Miracle Food.”

Whey Protein: When processed correctly (to retain whole protein concentrate and at low temperatures to preserve immune factors), whey supplies a biologically superior protein with natural immune factors, including lactoferrin and immunoglobulins. Milk-derived whey protein has been shown to:

  • boost immune function
  • improve liver function
  • bind and safely remove heavy metals
  • speeds wound healing
  • aid muscle growth. (Body builders have long known about the muscle-building benefits of whey).
  • promote healing of bones, skin, and muscle.
  • heal cartilage and strengthen joints, tendons and cardiac muscle.

In cancer medicine it has been found that whey offers “considerable protection to the host” over that of other types of protein including soy, especially during chemotherapy and radiation. At low concentrations, whey inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells. Whey also protects cellular glutathione (a body-produced antioxidant) in normal cells during radiation. This effect is not seen with other proteins.

Because the milk-sugar portion is removed, whey is suitable for people who are lactose intolerant. The Super Shake made with whey provides a high quality protein, high nutrient, low carb meal replacement or between-meal snack.

NOTE: NOT ALL WHEY PROTEINS ARE CREATED EQUAL! Many whey powders contain the “isolate” form only, but many of the immune benefits of whey are found in the Whole Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC). Our Wellness Club brand of whey is specially processed to preserve all of these important nutritive factors.

You’ve heard me wax eloquent numerous times about the importance and benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids (Flax and fish oil are the primary sources). The American diet is grossly deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids (Which are Essential Fatty Acids, or EFA’s). Deficiencies of Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to subtle body-wide inflammation which in turn is associated with over 60 known diseases including heart disease, stroke, arthritis, allergies, asthma, cancer, overweight and obesity, autoimmune disease, neurological disease, psoriasis, eczema, high blood pressure to name only a few. Daily supplementation of Omega-3 fatty acids, derived primarily from flax and/or fish oil (salmon is a rich source) are one of the healthiest things a person can do to prevent these many EFA-deficiency associated diseases. The essential fats are SO important that the Government officially recommended in 2003 that Americans get more Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.

L-Glutamine: This amino acid is a major component of muscle tissue. It is also a major source of energy for cells of the GI tract. It stimulates the production of Growth Hormone (GH) and decreases sugar and alcohol cravings.
Athletes use Glutamine to help build muscle (anabolic), but it can also be used by non-athletes, even the frail elderly, to help prevent muscle tissue breakdown. It is useful for rejuvenating the lining of the GI tract and can therefore assist in healing after GI surgery and in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Glutamine stimulates the immune system and should be used when recovering from any surgery or illness. In weight loss, it is useful for reducing alcohol and sugar cravings. Because it crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a ready supply of energy for the brain, it is also used in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD).

Maxi Fiber: A powdered, great-tasting, easy-to-mix high fiber blend. This formula makes it easy to add extra fiber to your diet. Maxi Fiber is sugar-free, low calorie and low carb, and contains all seven classes of fiber. This mix of fiber is known to:

  • Bind intestinal toxins and soften and bulk stools
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Helps correct constipation and diarrhea
  • Helps remove heavy metals and toxins
  • Clears out excess bowel mucous and alleviates gas
  • Deodorizes and cleans the digestive tract
  • Helps heal and soothe the G.I. tract

Gelatin: OK, total vegetarians and vegans, just leave this ingredient out of the Shake. For the rest of us, gelatin has an amino acid profile with the following benefits:

  • promotes joint health. Two of the amino acids found in gelatin are substances the body uses to make collagen, a primary component of connective tissues such as cartilage.
  • promotes nail health.

Blueberry: (and its cousin bilberry which can be taken in capsule form if preferred) is an herb which acts as a potent antioxidant and serves to strengthen and stabilize veins. It is used for: Atherosclerosis, cataracts, diabetes mellitus, neuropathy and neuralgia, retinopathy, varicose veins, and macular degeneration. Bilberry has a special affinity for the eyes and veins. It also improves skin tone because of its antioxidant and capillary-strengthening properties.

BOTTOM LINE on My Super-Shakes:

Why not have at least one, and better yet two, of these wonderful health-enhancing drinks per day for one month and give yourself the opportunity to experience a great number of health benefits in one tasty glass? And DO drop me a line and tell me of your experiences. I get “fan mail” for the Shakes on a daily basis and I’d like to hear yours!

To make one shake each for two people or two shakes for one person (per day) for one month, you will need to order:

Saturated Fats and The Big Fat Lie 


“For every complicated problem there is a solution that is simple, direct, understandable, and wrong.” — H.L. Mencken

 Everybody knows that saturated fats are unhealthy, just like everybody knew once upon a time that the earth was flat. The saturated fat myth has seriously compromised the heart-health of Americans, and it’s all based on a Big Fat Lie. Here’s how this fairy tale came to be….

How Bad Science (And Urban Health Legends) Get Started

Once upon a time, not so very long ago in a place called Nebraska (where the corn grows as high as an elephant’s eye) there lived a handsome young man who was very wealthy and powerful and kept himself very fit. This young man worked hard making millions of dollars in the construction industry and he loved to eat hamburgers. Though he was a very happy young man with a fine family and a successful business, all was not well. One day the young man became very sick. He suffered a heart attack, and almost died.

The young man’s doctors were very skilled and they saved the his life, but this turn of events frightened the young man very much and he set out to discover why such a dreadful thing happened to him. He found out that his blood cholesterol was high and his doctors told him that this was the cause of his heart attack. Without questioning whether this was true or not, the young man made up his mind to ensure that this would never happen again. He set out to learn as much as he could about heart disease and cholesterol, and quickly decided that the foods he was eating were to blame for his troubles. You see, the experts at that time believed that certain kinds of fats called saturated fats would cause high blood cholesterol and dangerous buildups of a substance called plaque in peoples blood vessels. The young man listened carefully to these “experts,” and being a fine young man who wished to help others avoid the troubles that he had experienced, he decided that he would do everything in his power to make sure that saturated fats never ever harmed anyone again.

The young man wrote many letters and spent much of his own money to take out big newspaper ads telling people how they were being poisoned by saturated fats. He made a lot of people believe in the same things that he believed – that is, that saturated fats were bad and would make them sick and had no place in a healthy diet. The young man’s efforts were quite successful and many big companies were forced to change the way they cooked their foods. They stopped using the saturated fats, and began to use fats that were created especially for them by big industries in big factories. They said that these fats were healthier, and the young man was pleased.

The young man became very popular, and dedicated the rest of his life to his mission of spreading the word about “bad saturated fats” and cholesterol to all who would listen. He didn’t live happily ever after, but he did live a long life, and became known as “America’s Number One Cholesterol Fighter” before he became sick with heart failure and passed away just a few years ago.

While this sounds like a fairy tale, it really isn’t. Philip Sokolof was a handsome and wealthy young man who suffered a heart attack that was blamed on high cholesterol and who dedicated himself and his millions to becoming a self-described “amateur cardiologist” and championing the cause of removing the saturated fats that he believed caused elevated blood cholesterol levels from the American diet. While his intentions were good, his science was shaky (he was a high school graduate, not a biochemist or a doctor – much less a cardiologist) and his misguided campaign resulted in the replacement of stable, healthy saturated fats with artificially created trans fatty acids that we now know as extremely dangerous “trans fats.”

Big Business (Can You Say “Proctor and Gamble”?) Helps Promote the Sat Fat Myth

While Sokolof was largely responsible for the vilification of saturated fats in America, he was not alone. The campaign against saturated fats actually began many years earlier, and Sokolof’s efforts were going on at the same time as the efforts from other political organizations were gathering momentum. A few years prior to Sokolof’s efforts, in 1986, the American Soybean Association began a campaign protesting the importation of competing palm and coconut oils. Two years later the “watchdog” organization, the Center for Science in the Public Interest, took up the cry against saturated fats with the publication of a booklet that was later found to contain mistakes, errors of biochemistry, and erroneous statements about the fat composition of foods. This concerted campaign against saturated tropical oils paid off, and ” fats” have been considered poison ever since by mainstream medicine and nutrition “experts.”

To discover why saturated fats have been given such a bad rap we need to go a little further back into history – perhaps as far back as the riverboat days of Mark Twain, but at least to the Second World War, when Japanese forces occupied much of the south Pacific and supplies of most of the tropical oils in the US were cut off for a number of years. Americans turned to home-grown substitutes: polyunsaturated oils such as corn, peanut, cottonseed, and a product of the aforementioned American Soybean Association, soy oil. As the use of these oils grew the growers and industries involved in their production became more powerful and eager to protect their market at any cost.

At this same time, in the early 1950′s, America began to notice a sharp increase in rates of cardiovascular disease and researchers were looking for answers. A study conducted by a Russian researcher found that rabbits, fed with animal fats (cholesterol) added to their feed developed fatty deposits in their skin and other tissues, including their blood vessels. (I’ll bet those normally vegetarian bunnies wondered what they were being fed!) Another sensational study relied on autopsies of American soldiers that had died in the Korean conflict and found that many of those examined had buildups of arterial plaque – atherosclerosis. (Which surely couldn’t have had anything to do with the military diet of the day, right? Or with the popularity of cigarette smoking?) This study, which made major news at the time, overshadowed other studies of the period which showed similar degrees of atherosclerosis in populations which had less mortality from heart disease despite high fat and high meat diets, or that ate far more vegetarian diets and suffered similar degrees of atherosclerosis, and generally indicated that the thickening of the arterial walls is a natural and unavoidable process. The press took the headline-grabbing autopsy results and ran with them using their usual logic of “the rooster crows every morning, and then the sun rises: therefore, the crowing of the rooster is what makes sunrise happen!”

During the 1960′s the attack on saturated fats continued with unabated vigor: despite scientific studies showing a decided lack of benefits companies such as Mazola and Proctor and Gamble promoted their vegetable oil creations as being especially healthy, and medical journals of the day promoted Fleischman’s unsalted margarine as being especially good for patients with high blood pressure. The American Medical Association was initially skeptical of all this hype but after the American Heart Association published its dietary guidelines damning animal fats and praising vegetable oils the AMA quickly fell into line. In 1966 a little self-help book called “Your Heart Has Nine Lives” advocated the substitution of vegetable oils for butter and other so-called “artery clogging” saturated fats. This book was sponsored by makers of Mazola Corn Oil and Mazola Margarine – no surprise – and was widely and freely circulated.

And that brings us to the handsome young man with his clogged arteries. Despite volumes of evidence to the contrary, saturated fats have been the “fall guy” for coronary artery disease since the 1950′s when in fact, as early as 1956 one researcher had suggested that the increasing use of hydrogenated vegetable oils might be the underlying cause of the CAD epidemic. Unwilling to stand idly by and let profits be imperiled by such things as health or humanitarian concerns, the massive and powerful edible oil industry in the United States has obfuscated, bullied, manipulated, and outright lied to protect it’s burgeoning market share. Supporting the flawed science of Philip Sokolof and pressuring legislators to adopt the anti-saturated fat / tropical oils legislation that he promoted was just good business.

Setting the Record Straight about Sat Fats

So, just what are these so-called saturated fats, where do they come from, and what are they used for? Well, the answers to these questions might be a surprise – sat fats are not what we have been led to believe. The most exact answers to the question “what is a saturated fat?” require some tedious and complicated science, and there are varying degrees of saturation. It is easier to simply think of the properties of “hardness” of fats.

A fat that is fully “saturated” would be as hard as wax, and quite indigestible. Fats that are almost totally “unsaturated” are very liquid, easily absorbed, and not at all common in the natural food supply. This “hardness” of fats is also dependant upon temperature. Many fats are liquid when warm, and solid when cold. Butter, for example, is quite hard when refrigerated, but soft at room temperature. Animal fats such as beef fat, lard, or chicken fat, while usually called “saturated fats” are actually not so: they are mixtures of naturally occurring fats and are actually less than half “saturated.” So-called “saturated fats” include things such as cocoa butter, dairy fats (milk fats and butter for example), palm oil, and tallow. Even breast milk is high in saturated fats! Monounsaturated fats include most animal fats, olive oil, canola oil, and peanut oil. Polyunsaturated fats include corn, cotton, and soybean oils, borage and primrose oil, flax seed oil, and fish oil.

Then there are the “modified” oils: oils that have been altered through a process called “hydrogenation” to make them more useful for certain applications. Margarine is a perfect example of hydrogenation: liquid oil such as cottonseed oil or corn oil, something that humans would never eat in nature, is altered to make it more solid and hard at room temperature. Crisco is another example – the name stands for CRyStalized Cottonseed Oil. The degree of hydrogenation is varied according to the desired use of the oil. Heavily hydrogenated oils might become stick margarine, while less hydrogenated or “partially hydrogenated” oils would become “spreads” or other “food products.”

Then there are the “trans fats” that have been in the news lately. These are fats that have had their molecular geometry altered, either on purpose or accidentally, and they are with very few and minor exceptions, not found in nature. Trans fats, when eaten by humans, tend to have some very bad effects on our bodies as they enter our cells and change how the cell walls function. Effects of trans fats in humans (and animals too) range from unfavorable changes in cholesterol levels to causing blood to become more “sticky”, to reduced ability to utilize insulin and increased blood sugar levels and increased weight, to alterations in hormone balances, and more. Trans fats are really only a very small step away from polyunsaturated fats – many polyunsaturated fats can be turned “trans” simply by heating them too much in cooking!

So, what does all this mean in more practical terms? It means that we must choose our fats carefully, and use them wisely. It means that we must cautiously weigh the claimed benefits of the vegetable-based hydrogenated “designer fats” that are so very commonplace in our modern “fast foods / prepared foods” diet against the known benefits of those traditional and natural fats that have been a part of mankind’s diet for millions of years.

We humans have evolved over the millennia as creatures that are well-adapted to, and in fact require, animal fats and proteins in our diets for optimal health – the claims of the vegetarian and vegan folks notwithstanding. Indeed, our very first meal, at our mother’s breast, supplied us with a high energy drink that gave our tiny bodies the cholesterol needed for development, and a special fat called Lauric Acid. This Lauric Acid, which is also found in the now-vilified tropical oils coconut oil and palm kernel oil has very strong antifungal and antibacterial properties and helps our tiny infant bodies develop strong immune systems. We are very well equipped to utilize fatty acids in the form of saturated fats such as dairy fats, and monounsaturated fats such as animal fats and olive oil. It is only with the advent of modern industrial processes that polyunsaturated fats such as corn and soybean oils have been available for our consumption – though fish oils (a form of polyunsaturated animal fat) have historically been considered to be healthy.

Why You Should Eat Butter and Lard

Butter, as another example, has a far healthier composition as a saturated fat than the synthesized creations that are the various margarines. Being a combination of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats it is not as “stable” as margarine – that is, it will turn rancid (a form of turning “trans”) if not refrigerated. But then, who would eat rancid butter? It also contains a variety of health-giving vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Does anyone remember the jar of bacon grease that was a fixture in every kitchen before the days of “spray-on” cooking oils, non-stick fry pans and fat-phobia? My mother carefully saved the grease from the morning bacon, and it was used to cook all sorts of wonderful things, from our morning eggs to delectable entrees and even desserts. We keep a jar of bacon grease in our own kitchen – it is far healthier than the canola oil and soy lecithin and “propellants” (your guess?) that are in our can of “no stick cooking spray.”

Then there is our obsession with “vegetable oils” as found in the aforementioned Crisco shortening. It is interesting to note that Proctor and Gamble, perhaps seeing the writing on the wall, or perhaps in a belated fit of conscience, has sold off the Crisco name and product. This “all vegetable oil” creation, once made from cottonseed oil, is now made from canola oil which must be hydrogenated (as was the cottonseed oil) to make it semi-solid. Smuckers, the new owners of Crisco, claims “Our entire line of Crisco Shortening products have been reformulated to contain zero grams trans fat per serving”. Can anyone reading this remember the days when lard was used? All-natural, no-trans-fat lard that made such wonderfully fluffy pastries and flaky pie crusts? Do we really think that humans are well-equipped to consume the kinds of oils that require bushels of rape seed or corn or soybeans per gallon to produce? Any more than we might be equipped to consume petroleum oils – no matter how they are “modified”?

Just like our handsome young man who made it his life’s mission to vilify healthful fats, we live in a fairy-tale world where we are led to believe that with a little help from chemistry and science we can fool mother nature into allowing us to consume “food products” that our bodies were never intended to have to deal with. Unfortunately, life in that fairy tale world is having very real and very serious consequences for Americans and people around the world who are buying into the anti-sat-fat fantasy being promoted by the vegetable oils industry. We are gambling our health and our lives and our future on a grand industrial experiment, and it is paying off with increasing rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and more.

At the beginning of the last century, most of the fats in our forefathers diet were either saturated or monounsaturated, mostly from butter, lard, tallow, coconut oil and small amounts of olive oil. Today most of the fats in our diet are polyunsaturated from vegetable oils mostly from soy, as well as from corn, safflower and canola. Before 1920 coronary heart disease was a rarity in America, causing no more than 10% of all deaths. Today heart disease accounts for at least 40% of all deaths. Is there a connection? We believe there is, and a growing body of scientists, researchers, and health care professionals is beginning to stand up to the politically correct diet dogma that is dictating low fat diets and vegetable fats instead of animal or tropical fats. For a historically interesting end to this article we go back to 1956 when Dr. Dudley White, in a television interview, noted that heart disease in the form of myocardial infarction (heart attack) was almost nonexistent in 1900 when egg consumption was three times what it was in 1956 and when corn oil was unavailable. When pressed to support the low-fat, vegetable oil based “Prudent Diet”, Dr. White replied: “See here, I began my practice as a cardiologist in 1921 and I never saw an MI patent until 1928. Back in the MI free days before 1920, the fats were butter and lard and I think that we would all benefit from the kind of diet that we had at a time when no one had ever heard the word corn oil.”

Former surgeon general Dr. C. Everett Koop even said, during congressional hearings in 1988: “the coconut scare is foolishness. . . To get the word to commercial interests terrorizing the public about nothing is another matter.” Could it be that it is time to turn away from the dangerous designer oils and fats of Big Industry and return to the animal and tropical fats that served our ancestors so well? We think it is!

Finally, let’s look briefly at this current medical fad that demands that we reduce cholesterol levels in our bloodstream to the lowest possible levels. Remember, cholesterol is essential to life; so essential that your liver will make it “de novo” – from new – if your body senses that it doesn’t have enough of this precious material. Even conventional medicine, in the form of The Framingham Report – the oldest, longest, and biggest study into heart disease in history – determined that when total serum cholesterol is reduced below 160 the risk of heart disease actually increases. Even more interestingly, the Director of The Framingham Study, Dr. William Castelli said in the July 1992 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine “At Framingham, we found that the people who ate the most saturated fat, the most cholesterol and the most calories weighed the least, were more physically active and had the lowest serum cholesterol levels.” We can only imagine the dismay that this information must have cause for Philip Sokolof; he must have been aware of it as it was published over a decade before his death. Nevertheless, Sokolof persisted in his efforts to vilify saturated fats and remove cholesterol from the American diet and we can only guess as to why he would continue these efforts in the face of research showing them to be wrong, even harmful. Was he simply too stubborn to accept the facts that proved him wrong, or was he too fully caught up in the whirlwind of Big Politics, Big Industry, Big Agriculture, and Big Pharmacy to be able to change? We’ll never know…

References
1.) Sokolof article http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/11/26/health/main585849.shtml
2.) Sokolof death http://www.blogofdeath.com/archives/000902.html
3.) D Groom, “Population Studies of Atherosclerosis,” Annals of Int Med , July 1961, 55:1:51-62; W F Enos, et al, “Pathogenesis of Coronary Disease in American Soldiers Killed in Korea,” JAMA , 1955, 158:912
4.) “Hydrogenated vegetable oils might be the underlying cause of the CAD epidemic”
A Keys, “Diet and Development of Coronary Heart Disease,” J Chron Dis, Oct 1956, 4(4):364-380
5.) Excerpt from “The Coconut Diet: The Secret Ingredient That Helps You Lose Weight While You Eat Your Favorite Foods” by Cherie Calbom http://www.enotalone.com/article/3242.html
6.) http://easydiagnosis.com/articles/oiling.html “The Oiling of America” by Enig and Fallon – many rerferences following this 4 part series.
7.) http://www.westonaprice.org/knowyourfats/skinny.html#lipid
The Weston A Price Society Enig & Fallon article “The Skinny on Fats”
8.) Framingham Study reports re: total cholesterol <160:
“There is a direct association between falling cholesterol levels over the first 14 years and mortality over the following 18 years” (11% overall and 14% CVD death rate increase per 1 mg/dL per year drop in cholesterol levels). Anderson KM JAMA 1987
9.) The Honolulu Heart Study:
“Our data accord with previous findings of increased mortality in elderly people with low serum cholesterol, and show that long-term persistence of low cholesterol concentration actually increases the risk of death. Thus, the earlier that patients start to have lower cholesterol concentrations, the greater the risk of death.” Lancet Aug 2001.

 

Sugar More Addictive Than Cocaine According To New Research!

08/23/07

This Week In HealthBeat News:

  • Yet More Good Reasons To Stop The Pop Habit – Metabolic Syndrome And Addiction
  • This week’s FDA “Warnings”…
  • The FDA Is “At It Again”… Keeping Us Safe From Mother Nature
  • We Get Letters I –  Comments and Questions…
  • We Get Letters II – Readers Ask Medical Questions…
  • Laughter is Good Medicine: Kids Say The Darndest Things – Part 2

Yet More Good Reasons To Stop The Pop Habit

Dr. Myatt has written and warned and ranted about the dangers of Soda Pop consumption over and over and over – most recently in our HealthBeat article Poisonous Pop . Well, the bad news about pop just keeps rolling in… this article from one of the many medical journals that we read each day for you:


A study suggests that middle-aged adults who drink more than 1 soft drink (diet or regular) daily have a higher risk of developing adverse metabolic traits as well as the metabolic syndrome.
Medscape Medical News 2007

For those who are a little hazy about what is “metabolic syndrome”, the article defines it thusly:

Metabolic syndrome was defined as the presence of three or more of following risk factors: excess waist circumference, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels, and high fasting glucose levels. [high fasting glucose levels = diabetes]

So, the long and short of this is that Pop drinkers are far more likely to develop “Metabolic Syndrome” and diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Cool, huh? And we let our kids drink this stuff ???

But Wait! There’s More!

This just in from a research paper out of France:

Intense Sweetness Surpasses Cocaine Reward

Yup, you read correctly – according to this study sugar is more addicting than cocaine!

Here is the conclusion of the research (edited slightly for brevity):

Our findings clearly demonstrate that intense sweetness can surpass cocaine reward, … We speculate that the addictive potential of intense sweetness results from an inborn hypersensitivity to sweet tastants. In … humans, sweet receptors evolved in ancestral environments poor in sugars and are thus not adapted to high concentrations of sweet tastants. The supranormal stimulation of these receptors by sugar-rich diets, such as those now widely available in modern societies, would generate a supranormal reward signal in the brain, with the potential to override self-control mechanisms and thus to lead to addiction.

Here’s the short-course, plain English translation: Because our distant (and not-so-distant) ancestors developed without mounds of sugar available to them we don’t handle sugars well, and sugars turn out to be actually more addictive (in the truest sense of addiction) than cocaine. Further, it is not the sugar, but the intense sweetness that is the addictive thing – the researchers used saccharine as a sweetener as well as sucrose (sugar) and the results were the same. Sweet beat out cocaine for the lab rats in the study.

Yikes! It boggles the mind, doesn’t it!

Read the research paper in it’s entirety here: http://www.plosone.org/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0000698

Still gonna go out for that six-pack of soda-pop or that mega-slurpee at the convenience store? Why not try some alternatives? Plain ol’ water has been a perennial favorite since the days of Alley Oop the caveman – I’ve heard it called “Adam’s Ale”… but if water just doesn’t cut it for you, how about iced green tea with a little lemon, or if you really need an energy drink, try some Greens First Berry  – 10 Servings of Fruits & Vegetables in One Delicious Drink, with minimal sugar.

This week’s FDA “Warnings”…

Certain Diabetes Drugs to Carry Strengthened Warnings
Manufacturers of certain drugs to treat type 2 diabetes have agreed to add a stronger warning on the risk of heart failure. The information will be included in the form of a “boxed” warning, FDA’s strongest type of warning.
FDA

So… take Big Pharma’s drugs and risk heart failure, or read up on some natural strategies for dealing with Diabetes without drugs and risk improving your health… Tough call, right? Check out our webpage Diabetes – get hip, get healthy, and do it without heart-destroying drugs!

Updated Prescribing Information Approved for Coumadin
FDA has approved updated labeling for the blood-thinning drug Coumadin to explain that genetic makeup may influence how a patient responds to the drug. Manufacturers of warfarin, the generic version of Coumadin, also plan to add similar labeling information.
FDA News

It should come as no surprise that there are some wonderfully effective ways of maintaining healthy blood “viscosity” and normal clotting factors that don’t involve swallowing “rat poison’… you can find plenty of free information with strategies for staying healthy without rat poison – check out our pages on Thrombophlebitis and Heart Health and kick the Warfarin habit before it kicks you!

The FDA Is “At It Again”… Keeping Us Safe From Mother Nature

A recent notice from the FDA warns consumers to not use several red yeast rice products that have been discovered to contain a molecule described as Lovastatin – the molecule synthesized by the Big Drug Companies and marketed to us under a variety of brand names such as Mevacor®, Advicor®, Altocor®,
Altoprev®, and Statosan® (Atos Pharma).

Here is their warning and link for your amusement:

FDA is warning consumers not to buy or eat three red yeast rice products promoted and sold online as dietary supplements for treating high cholesterol. FDA analysis showed the products contained an ingredient found in the prescription cholesterol drug Mevacor. FDA News

In part, their warning states:

This risk is even more serious because consumers may not know the side effects associated with lovastatin and the fact that it can adversely interact with other medications,” said Steven Galson, M.D., M.P.H., director of FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

Oooh! Spooky frightening words! No mention of course that the FDA approved drug, which is the same stuff that is in the supplements the FDA would ban, might be just as dangerous (or not)…

The FDA goes on to explain:

These red yeast rice products are a threat to health because the possibility exists that lovastatin can cause severe muscle problems leading to kidney impairment. This risk is greater in patients who take higher doses of lovastatin or who take lovastatin and other medicines that increase the risk of muscle adverse reactions. These medicines include the antidepressant nefazodone, certain antibiotics, drugs used to treat fungal infections and HIV infections, and other cholesterol-lowering medications.

Uh, Guys…? You forgot grapefruit juice – grapefruit juice (and grapefruit) inhibits the metabolism of statins which can increase the levels of the statin, and increase the risk of dose-related adverse effects…

But of course the patented drugs are safe – after all, they are FDA approved, and prescribed for you by a FDA approved doctor, and sold to you at great profit by a FDA approved Pharmacy… Surely that FDA approval removes almost all the risk from these drugs, right?

Folks, I have a news flash for you: Mother Nature holds the patent on Lovastatin! Big Pharma may have figured out how to fully synthesize it in their soulless, sterile laboratories, but Mother Nature was there first!

Here is a bit of history about the “discovery” of Lovastatin taken from the on-line reference resource wikipedia: (edited for brevity – full article available at Wikipedia )

Akira Endo and Masao Kuroda of Tokyo, Japan commenced research… in 1971. The first agent isolated was mevastatin (ML-236B), a molecule produced by Penicillium citrinum. The pharmaceutical company Merck & Co. showed an interest in the Japanese research in 1976, and isolated lovastatin (mevinolin, MK803), the first commercially marketed statin, from the mold Aspergillus terreus.

But mankind has known about the properties of this Miracle of Mother Nature for thousands of years – here is an another excerpt from the on-line resource wikipedia: ( full article available at: Red Rice Yeast )

In addition to its culinary use, red yeast rice is also used in traditional Chinese herbology and traditional Chinese medicine. Its use has been documented as far back as the Tang Dynasty in China in 800 A.D. and taken internally to invigorate the body, aid in digestion, and remove “blood blockages”.

This whole silly thing just makes me want to shake my head – for it is nothing new, and the FDA has tried this several times before with Red Rice Yeast. Each time they try it, their ban crumbles under the weight of logic:

  • If Lovastatin is a unique, synthesized, patented drug, how could Mother Nature have possibly gotten there first with something as lowly as a fungus?
     
  • If Lovastatin is a new and novel thing (and therefore worthy of patent protection,) what were the ancient Chinese doing with it in 800 A.D.?
     
  • If the natural, less potent (but just as effective) substance is so very dangerous that we must be “protected” from it, how can the synthesized, isolated version be so much safer that it is sold without prescription (O.T.C or Over The Counter) in Britain, with Big Pharma agitating for the same here in the US?

To their credit, the FDA has so far resisted Big Pharma’s call – probably because they are wary of the logic that says if Big Pharma’s brands of statins can be sold O.T.C., then why shouldn’t Mother Nature’s brand also be allowed to be sold?

It will be fun to follow this one, and you can be sure that HealthBeat will keep you updated as this comedy – er, story – unfolds.

And here is a parting thought… is there not a lawyer out there somewhere who would take this case? God and God’s Agent, Mother Nature vs. Big Pharma and Big Pharma’s Agent, The FDA in a lawsuit over theft of intellectual property, plagiarism, counterfeiting, and patent infringement?

What a fun trial that might be! After all, what would happen to you or I if we reverse-engineered one of Big Pharma’s creations and sold the result for billions in profits? Would we not find ourselves in court “quicker than two shakes of a lamb’s tail?”

Learn more about Red Yeast Rice at the Wellness Club website!

We Get Letters: Comments and Questions…

Janet writes to comment:

I have just signed up for your newsletter. Thank you again!
I have personally used medicinal herbs and other natural treatments for 30 years; and now know just enough to realize how little I know! ~Janet

Dr. Myatt replies:

Hi Janet:

An ancient Arab proverb goes something like this:

There are four types of men:

The man who doesn’t know, and doesn’t know that he doesn’t know. He is a fool. Avoid him.
The man who doesn’t know, and knows that he doesn’t know. He is a student. Teach him.
The man who knows, and doesn’t know that he knows. He is asleep. Awaken him.
The man who knows, and knows that he knows. He is a teacher. Learn from him.

Knowing how little you know is the beginning of wisdom!

In Health,
Dr. Myatt

And another Janet writes:

Dear Dr. Myatt,
I have a question regarding castor oil packs.  I have read that this is a good treatment for lymphoma….Then, on another website, I read one should not use castor oil packs if there is a malignancy.  Your in put would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You, Janet

To which Dr. Myatt answers:

Hi Janet:

I use castor oil packs (COP) for everything, including every type of cancer. I have been involved in several large (unpublished) studies using castor oil packs and have never seen an adverse outcome, and I have never seen any studies which show that a COP is contraindicated in lymphoma. The only time I wouldn’t use a COP is where I wouldn’t use heat, such as in a “hot” appendix.

Please keep in mind that there are MANY other things that should be done in addition to COP’s for cancer. It is difficult for a layman to sort out what will really help because of all the conflicting stories one hears. As you probably know, “everybody is an expert” when you have cancer. The lady next door, your butcher, baker and candlestick-maker, the gal at the health food store — everybody “knows” a cure for cancer that you should be using! The trouble is, 99% of such advice is wrong.

An holistic physician can make specific recommendations based on the individual, and this is much more productive.

Here is a note (which the patient gave me permission to use ) from a Stage 4 ovarian cancer patient. I don’t know if you’re familiar with “staging,” but stage 4 is as high as it gets, and ovarian cancer is usually a death-sentence. She wrote last week after her check-up with the oncologist:

Hi Dr. Myatt –

Well, I’m home now – been a long day.  He (oncologist) gave me an internal exam as usual to see what’s growin’ – because the last time I was there (3 mo. ago) he felt stuff growing – Well, guess what – he felt NOTHING!! NADA – NIENTE – 0 growths!! – and he can’t figure it out.  So he wants to see me in 3 more months and no scans ordered.  How do you like that!
Bye!
Gail

And a note she sent out to friends the next day:

Hi Everyone – I just had another ‘cancer visit’ with my oncologist.  I was delighted with the results.
On his examination – he could not feel the cancer that was growing the last time I was there even though my cancer marker was elevated a little.  He expected me to be bloated and full of growths, but I wasn’t. He is baffled.  I attribute this as a result of working with Dr. Myatt – a nutritionist in Arizona – and sticking with her diet and and supplements.

So, to all my family and friends – Thank you for your support and prayers and kind and healthy thoughts – they are working for me. Don’t underestimate their power and yours
I love you all soooooooo much
Love and Light
Gail

Janet, Gail is not an exception. We have excellent results in achieving remissions in even our advanced cancer patients. And keep in mind that I have never met any of these people in person — this work has all been done by telephone consultation.

Please, if you need solid holistic medical advice, don’t just try and stumble around with a “do it yourself” program. Cancer is a very “worthy adversary,” and I cannot recommend highly enough that you enlist the help of myself or a trusted holistic doctor to help you with this. My telephone consultation information can be found here: Telephone Consultations

Please do keep in touch no matter what and let me know how this lymphoma case turns out. We’ll be praying for the welfare of this patient.

In Health,
Dr. Myatt

Muscular and joint pain is a very common and vexing problem that interferes with the enjoyment of life’s pleasures for most of us at some time or other. There are some excellent natural solutions to this problem – read on:

Dr. Myatt received this letter recently:

Hi!
I am a friend of a patient of yours and he mentioned that you could probably suggest a vitamin/mineral that might help my muscle soreness. Have been to a Dr. who ruled out Fibromyalgia. I am very active with work, motorcycles and horses. Have any suggestions? Thank You, Tanya N.

Hi Tanya,

Thank you for your question. Muscle soreness can result from many things, and combinations of things. The very best way to sort this out would be to arrange an
alternative medicine consultation
with Dr. Myatt – this will save you time, money, and uncertainty, and provide you with a very definitive plan for better health.

Here are some general suggestions:

An optimal dose multiple vitamin / mineral / micronutrient formula such as Maxi-Multiis a cornerstone for anyone’s good health. Without optimal nutrition, the cells of your body (including your muscles) cannot function properly.

CoEnzyme Q 10 (CoQ10) is an important energy molecule for the mitochondria (the energy units) of our body’s cells. The body produces CoQ10 naturally, but many people are deficient for a number of reasons, including prescription medication use – particularly the use of cholesterol-lowering drugs. Without adequate energy supplies your muscles cannot function at their best and may feel tired and achy. CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to many processes in the body. They are anti-inflammatory. Deficiencies in Omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to a subtle body-wide inflammatory state. The Standard American Diet is woefully deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids. An excellent source is Max EPA .

Bromelainis nature’s premier anti-Inflammatory herb, useful for all types of infection, injuries, inflammation, sinusitis, cardiovascular disease, rheumatic disease, autoimmune disease, and cancer. It is very effective at reducing swelling and inflammation, thereby reducing pain and discomfort of muscle soreness.

Cox-2 Support is a new product that many of Dr. Myatt’s patients and Wellness Club members have reported excellent results with. This herbal blend was created to help support normal healthy Cox-2 levels. You are no doubt familiar with the Cox-2 inhibitor drugs such as Vioxx and Bextra and others which have earned a reputation for being  dangerous. Cox-2 support was formulated to give similar pain relief by helping the body to produce normal, healthy levels of Cox-2 compounds instead of creating artificially high levels of these compounds in the body by preventing their normal metabolism as the discredited Cox-2 inhibitor drugs are designed to do. It is well worth a try for relieving all kinds of muscular and joint discomfort.

Hope this helps,

Cheers,
Nurse Mark

We Get Letters II – Readers Ask Medical Questions…

Q.) Hello Dr. Myatt,

I would be interested in information regarding high cholesterol (my LDL is 314!!), halting or REVERSING coronary artery disease (several 40% blockages), and osteoporosis (severe—I’m trying strontium now after refusing Forteo), lowering blood pressure in a healthy way (I’m 53, 5′ tall and weigh 100 pounds on a good day!) and fibromyalgia (Yep, that too). The laundry list goes on and on, so at this point just about anything you talk about would be of interest to me or a family member!
Trying to avoid as many pharmaceuticals as possible, but have tried all the ‘naturals’, and I still haven’t found the solution….

Your site is great. I look forward to your newsletters!
Best regards, Eliz

A.) Hi Eliz:

Welcome aboard! As I’m sure you know, I can’t really respond personally to every complaint you have (I don’t have NEARLY enough information). To do so would require a telephone consultation. But there are plenty of highly informative pieces to help answer these questions on our main website ( DoctorMyatt.com ) and on this site.

This should get you going: High Cholesterol .

And be sure to see these HealthBeat articles:

And this whitepaper: (which will be pulled from the site soon and made into a white paper for purchase, so grab this while you can for free) Lower Cholesterol Naturally

See our information about Osteoporosis: and our HealthBeat article Strontium: The Missing Mineral for Osteoporosis Prevention and Reversal:

Fibromyalgia: that’s a “case by case” basis; I recommend a phone consult. And I’ll work on a general information page for this topic and post it to the main website.

There’s a problem with a “do it yourself” approach to natural health, especially when you have some serious medical concerns. You wind up buying all of the “best-hyped” supplements (and natural manufacturers can be every bit as “hypey” as Big Pharma!), waste a lot of time and money, and you still haven’t done anything specific for your case.

There’s a reason why naturopathic medical doctors spend 4 years in medical school after 4 years of pre-med. That’s because a precise understanding of the patient’s complaints, and targeted recommendations, takes a lot of knowledge and understanding. The “do it yourself” approach to medicine is, for most people, a waste of time and money and can even be dangerous. Get some professional assistance! I’m here if you need me….

P.S. to all HealthBeat News Subscribers: Remember that you’ll find a boat-load of free, no-hype holistic health information at DoctorMyatt.com.

You can also look up past articles from HealthBeat at our new HealthBeat Archives page.

All the links above were taken from our free-to-access websites.

In Health,
Dr. Myatt

Laughter is Good Medicine: Kids Say The Darndest Things – Part 2

When my grandson Billy and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects. Still, a few fireflies followed us in. Noticing them before I did, Billy whispered, ‘It’s no use, Grandpa. The mosquitoes are coming after us with flashlights.’

When my grandson asked me how old I was, I teasingly replied, ‘I’m not sure.’ ‘Look in your underwear, Grandma,’ he advised. ‘Mine says I’m four to six.’

A second grader came home from school and said to her grandmother, ‘Grandma, guess what? We learned how to make babies today.’ The grandmother, more than a little surprised, tried to keep her cool. ‘That’s interesting,’ she said, ‘How do you make babies?’ ‘It’s simple,’ replied the girl. ‘You just change ‘y’ to ‘i’ and add ‘es’.’

‘Give me a sentence about a public servant,’ said a teacher. The small boy wrote: ‘The fireman came down the ladder pregnant.’ The teacher asked, ‘Do you know what pregnant means?’ Sure,’
said the young boy confidently. ‘It means carrying a child.’

A nursery school teacher was delivering a station wagon full of kids home one day when a fire truck zoomed past. Sitting in the front seat of the fire truck was a Dalmatian dog. The children started discussing the dog’s duties. ‘They use him to keep crowds back,’ said one youngster. ‘No,’ said another, ‘he’s just for good luck.’ A third child brought the argument to a close: ‘No, they use the dogs to find the fire hydrant.’

 

 

HYPOGLYCEMIA (LOW BLOOD SUGAR)


Natural Support For This Dietary Imbalance

Hypoglycemia results when there is an abnormally low level of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This condition is often caused by an excess secretion of insulin from the pancreas. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can mimic many other conditions. Any or all of the following can be experienced during a hypoglycemic episode: weakness, heart palpitations, anxiety, dizziness, headache, depression, weakness in the legs, tightness in the chest, numbness and/or tingling of body parts, insomnia, confusion, craving for sweets or starches, and nervous habits. Poor adrenal function and abnormal carbohydrate metabolism often occur with hypoglycemia.

Although heredity can play a role, the most common cause of hypoglycemia is dietary imbalance. Nutritional deficiencies compound the problem. A diet that is high in refined carbohydrates will aggravate or even cause hypoglycemia. Paradoxically, these foods will give temporary relief of symptoms during a low blood sugar “episode” and are therefore often eaten by hypoglycemics.

If ignored, the condition may predispose to development of Type II (adult-onset) diabetes. Because of their high sugar intake, many hypoglycemics also develop candidiasis.

DIET AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Eat only unrefined (complex) carbohydrates. Avoid all processed grains and sugars (except fresh fruit) The Super Fast Diet is EXCELLENT for hypoglycemics.
  • Always eat breakfast and include protein with this meal. (Eggs, tofu, Super Pro ‘96, whey powder, etc.)
  • Do not use coffee, tobacco, alcohol, or sugar.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise stabilizes blood sugar levels.
  • Practice stress reduction techniques: meditation, prayer, biofeedback, deep breathing. Stress releases excess adrenalin which lowers blood sugar levels.

PRIMARY SUPPORT

  • Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidants (ACES), magnesium, B complex vitamins, and chromium are particularly important for correcting hypoglycemia.
  • Ultra-Chrome (chromium 4-oxopyridine, 2,6 dicarboxylate): 200-500mg daily in addition to multiple vitamin/mineral dose. (This form of chromium is 3 times more potent than chromium picolinate!)
  • Fiber: Maxi Fiber: 1 teaspoon, 3 times per day 10 minutes before meals, OR Fiber Formula: 4-6 caps, 3 times per day before or during meals.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

  • Multi-B-Complex: 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals IF you are not taking the Optimal Doses of B vitamins contained in Maxi Multi.
    • Support any organ system that scored “high” on the Self-Health Questionnaire, pages 6-8 in your Holistic Health Handbook.

 

 

HealthBeat News

Heart Health Breakthroughs

From the medical journals this month, a lot of important new about heart health. Topics include 4 Major Risk Factors for Heart Disease that can be modified; How and Why eating fish lowers heart rate (and which kind is best to eat); How hormone balancing, including DHEA, fights heart disease; Study shows that diet change works as well as drugs for lowering cholesterol.

Big Fat Lies! A deficiency of Omega-3 Fatty Acid OR an imbalance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio is associated with heart irregularities, breast cancer, difficulty losing weight and more.

Sex hormone balance. New studies continue to show the danger of conventional hormone therapy (though this has been known for over a decade), but other studies show benefit of natural hormone replacement therapy. Find out what the difference is and how to go about improving your hormone levels.

Risks and Benefits of Soy Soy and soy-related foods have health benefits including cholesterol-lower and anti-cancer effects BUT there are definite cautions as well. Learn more about this up-and-coming food source.

Body/Mind: The Shaman’s Lesson of Worth What I learned from a Native American Medicine Man may prove of value to you as well.

Member News and Notes

Upcoming topics: What else would you like to see in future editions? Keep those requests and letters coming.

Heart Health Breakthroughs

From the medical journals in the past month come these heart-healthy findings:

    1. The Top 4 major heart disease risks can be modified, and isn’t this great news since heart disease is the major cause of death in our country! Nine out of ten people who suffer a heart attack were found to have at least one of these modifiable risks, including cigarette smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. It was previously believed that these 4 factors accounted for about 50% of fatal heart attacks, but two studies published this week now estimate the number to be between 87-100%. (Journal of the American Medical Association, August 18, 2003)
    2. Eating fatty fish helps keep heart rate low, which in turn decreases the risk of sudden cardiac death. The exact mechanism is not yet known, but I predict it will be discovered to be due to the “essential” nature of the correct Omega-6:Omega-3 fatty acid ratio. (See “Big Fat Lies”, below). (Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, August 12, 2003)
    3. Diet works as well as drugs for lowering cholesterol levels. The test diets included fiber and soy protein, and worked as well at lowering cholesterol as the major “statin” drugs. There are several advantages to the dietary approach, namely lower cost and most importantly, no nasty side effects. (Statin drugs can damage the liver, hence the need for regular blood tests to monitor liver function). (Journal of the American Medical Association, July 23/30, 2003)
    4. DHEA May Fight Heart Disease. A study of middle-aged men taking DHEA found that insulin sensitivity and endothelial function both improved. (Endothelium is the lining of the blood vessels, the area where plaque accumulates). Since both of these factors are known to contribute to atherosclerosis, it is believed that DHEA will be shown to be beneficial to the heart. (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, July 23, 2003). Dr. Myatt’s Note: Please read the article on “Sex Hormone Balance,” below, and DO NOT attempt to take hormone supplementation without guidance. This study is promising but preliminary, and it is possible to drive estrogen and other sex hormones too high with excessive DHEA intake.
    5. Type “A” Behavior Triggers Heart Disease. Those who have “Type A” behaviors—- impatient, competitive, uptight, holding grudges— are heart attacks waiting to happen, and happen much sooner than they would in a person with similar physical risk factors but non-type A personalities. (Psychosomatic Medicine, July, 2003). The bottom line? Practice relaxation techniques, physical activity to burn off excess “hyper” energy, forgiveness— whatever it takes to ease you into a less stressful personality and behavior mode.

____________________________________________________

Big Fat Lies!

Unlike carbohydrates, fats are an essential macronutrient and also the most misunderstood. The term “fat” actually refers to an entire family of fatty acids, each with very different biological functions. Only two fatty acids are essential, but the way in which all interact with each other plays an important role in how Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) are utilized. Deficiencies, excesses or relative deficiencies of EFA’s are now known to have serious health consequences. Because imbalanced dietary fats are strongly associated with many diseases, any diet aiming for optimal health must correct fat intake. A number of books address the importance of EFA’s, also called “Omegas,” but most contain elements of spurious science.

The New Keto Diet dives deeper into the description and prescription for optimizing fat intake than any diet ever before, shattering some widely held but incorrect beliefs about certain fats and setting the record straight on others. Let’s look at some of the Big Fat Lies about fat that no other diet book has correctly explained, including:

TRANS fats are the real villains among dietary fats, interfering with absorption of the Essential Fatty Acids, damaging cell membranes, elevating cholesterol level and altering the way normal cell membranes function. Trans fats are prevalent in the American diet, including many weight loss and “health” diets, but their intake should be drastically minimized for health reasons. In fact, the FDA recently passed a law requiring the amounts of trans fats to be listed separately on food nutrition labels.

Saturated fats, the kind we get from eating steak, butter, cheese and eggs, are NOT unhealthy as they have been portrayed. In fact, they are so important that the human body produces them internally. Dietary saturated fat intake is not only safe but also necessary. Because “sat fats” do not compete with the EFA’s for absorption, do not turn “trans” or rancid, and maintain their chemical composition when heated, they are preferable for frying and high-heat cooking. The old belief that “saturated fats are unhealthy” was actually started many years ago based on some unscientific “science,” the edible oil industry in this country (who magnified the unsavory science in ads to discredit coconut oil and improve sales of domestic oils such as corn and cottonseed), and one wealthy businessman who mistakenly blamed his heart disease on saturated fats and paid for a huge, negative marketing campaign. Saturated fats are not villains, and some sat fats, such as coconut oil, have significant health benefits. (Coconut oil is antimicrobial, antiviral, is excellent for cooking for the reasons listed above, and can be used easily and directly as a calorie source, hence, it “burns” faster and “hotter” than many other types of calories).

Further, the belief that monounsaturated oils (such as olive oil) are healthful and desirable is another Big Fat Lie. In truth, they are the white bread of the fatty acid family. Although better than Trans fats, “monos” serve no purpose in the body, are not essential, compete with the Essential Fatty Acids for utilization, and can turn into Trans fats with cooking.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids are an Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) that needs to be balanced with it’s EFA partner, Omega-3, for optimal health. The American diet contains far too much of this essential fat and most people should not be taking supplements of O-6 oils.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids, the other EFA, must partner with O-6 in a 4:1 to 10:1 ratio. Unfortunately, this EFA is exceptionally low in virtually every diet, from the Standard American Diet to Atkin’s to Pritiken, and especially the USDA food pyramid. No one has told us the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth regarding optimal fat intake until now. On a truly healthful diet (primarily The New Keto Diet), you can have your steak (its “Omega Ratio” makes it far healthier than chicken), lavish butter on your broccoli and bathe your artichoke in mayonnaise, but that dainty olive oil vinaigrette that most would advise should be replaced by a healthier flax oil dressing.

Heart Disease

One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart disease is to eat a diet low in trans fats and replace foods rich in trans and omega-6 fats with those that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high cholesterol and high blood pressure. There is also strong evidence that these substances can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, each of which tends to clog arteries. Studies of heart attack survivors have found that daily omega-3 fatty acid supplements dramatically reduce the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks, and stroke. Similarly, people who eat an ALA-rich diet are less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.

Stroke

Strong evidence from population-based studies suggests that omega-3 fatty acid intake (primarily from fish), helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. In fact, eating at least two servings of fish per week can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, people who eat more than three grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may be at an increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in the brain leaks or ruptures. Keep in mind that 80% of strokes are due to blood clots, and only 20% are hemorrhagic. Further, it is weak blood vessels, not thin blood, that cause this rarer type of stroke. (Grape seed extract, available in supplement form, helps strengthen blood vessels among its other benefits).

Weight Loss

People who have trouble losing weight when dieting, including those who are resistant to weight loss on a ketogenic (Atkins’) diet, are likely to have a deficiency of Omega-3 fatty Acids OR an imbalanced ratio of O-6 to O-3. Improving this ratio of Essential Fatty Acid intake in the diet, without additional restriction on carbohydrates or calories, is often the key to unlocking this “metabolic resistance.”

Arthritis

Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in omega-6 fatty acids) may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. In some participants, symptoms worsened before they improved.

Depression

People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids or do not maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet may be at an increased risk for depression. The omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes. They help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health.

Levels of omega-3 fatty acids were found to be measurably low and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids were particularly high in a study of patients hospitalized for depression. In a study of people with depression, those who ate a healthy diet consisting of fatty fish two to three times per week for 5 years experienced a significant reduction in feelings of depression and hostility.

Macular Degeneration

A questionnaire administered to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those who consumed more fish in their diet were less likely to have macular degeneration (a serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who consumed less fish. Similarly, a study comparing 350 people with macular degeneration to 500 without found that those with a healthy dietary balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and higher intake of fish in their diets were less likely to have this particular eye disorder. Another larger study confirms that EPA and DHA from fish, four or more times per week, may reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration.

Colon Cancer

Consuming significant amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appears to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to follow a high fat diet but eat significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer. Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent worsening of colon cancer while omega-6 fatty acids promote the growth of colon tumors. Daily consumption of EPA and DHA also appeared to slow or even reverse the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease.

Breast Cancer

Women who regularly consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appear to be less likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, the risk of dying from breast cancer may be significantly less for those who eat large quantities of omega-3 from fish and brown kelp seaweed (common in Japan). This is particularly true among women who substitute fish for meat. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids appears to play an important role in the development and growth of breast cancer. The tissue levels of women with breast cancer are found to contain much lower levels of Omega-3 fatty acids than breast tissue from healthy controls.

Some researchers hypothesize that omega-3 fatty acids in combination with other nutrients (namely, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and coenzyme Q10) may prove to be of particular value for preventing and treating breast cancer.

Prostate Cancer

Laboratory and animal studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically, DHA and EPA) may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Similarly, population based studies of groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Like breast cancer, the balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids appears to be particularly important for reducing the risk of this condition.

Other

Preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may also prove beneficial in protecting against infections, ulcers, migraine headaches, preterm labor, asthma, emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease, lupus, and panic attacks.

Dietary Sources

Fish oils and plant oils are the primary dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, and herring. ALA is found in flaxseeds & flaxseed oil. FISH and FLAX are the best sources. Other oils that contain significant amounts of Omega-3 are not recommended because they are also high in Omega-6. these include: canola (rapeseed) oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seed oil, purslane, walnuts, and walnut oil.

Available Forms

In addition to the dietary sources described, EPA and DHA can be taken in the form of fish oil Capsules. Flaxseed, flaxseed oil, and fish oil should be kept refrigerated. Whole flaxseeds should be ground within 1 week of use to ensure maximum potency.

Be sure to buy omega-3 fatty acid supplements made by established companies who certify that their products are free of heavy metals such as mercury.

How to Take It

Flaxseed

1 TBS. ground flax seed per day AND 1 TBS. flax oil per day OR 2 TBS. flax oil per day. (This corresponds to about 12 flax oil Capsules.

Flaxseed: 1 TBS two to three times per day or 2 to 4 tsp one time per day. Grind before eating and take with lots of water.

EPA and DHA

The adequate daily intake of EPA and DHA for adults should be at least 220 mg of each per day. Two to three servings of fatty fish per week (roughly 1,250 mg EPA and DHA per day) are generally recommended to treat certain health conditions.

Fish oil supplements

3,000 to 4,000 mg standardized fish oils per day. (This amount corresponds to roughly 2 to 3 servings of fatty fish per week.)

Typically, a 1,000 mg fish oil Capsule has 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA

ALA. Do NOT use cod liver oil on a regular basis, as it’s high vitamin A & D levels can become toxic. A physician should monitor high intakes of these fat-soluble vitamins. Regular EPA-containing fish oils do not contain vitamin A & D.

Possible Interactions

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use omega-3 fatty acid supplements without first talking to your healthcare provider.

Blood-thinning Medications

Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the blood-thinning effects of aspirin or warfarin. While the combination of aspirin and omega-3 fatty acids may actually be helpful under certain circumstances (such as heart disease), they should only be taken together under the guidance and supervision of a knowledgeable nutritionally-oriented physician.

Cyclosporine

Taking omega-3 fatty acids during cyclosporine therapy may reduce toxic side effects (such as high blood pressure and kidney damage) associated with this medication in transplant patients.

Etretinate and Topical Steroids

The addition of omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA) to a drug regimen of etretinate and topical corticosteroids may improve symptoms of psoriasis.

Cholesterol-lowering Medications

Following certain nutritional guidelines, including increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and reducing the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, may allow a group of cholesterol lowering medications known as “statins” (such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin) to work more effectively.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

In an animal study, treatment with omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk of ulcers from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). More research is needed to evaluate whether omega-3 fatty acids would have the same effects in people.

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Sex Hormone Balance

The so-called “sex hormones,” including estrogens, testosterone, progesterone, DHEA, DHT, appear to play an important role in keeping us health, preventing many known age-related changes. When they are in healthful balance, they also appear to help prevent hormone-related cancers, heart disease, age-related memory changes, osteoporosis and a host of other ills. This is the reason that women, particularly, have been prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause.

Although it was well-known when I first started practicing medicine 14 years ago, only this year have we “officially” acknowledged that conventional hormone replacement therapy can be dangerous. In fact, such HRT can actually INCREASE the risk of heart disease and breast cancer. Fortunately for men, we have not tended to use HRT at middle age.

In contradistinction, natural Hormone Replacement Therapy (n-HRT) appears to have numerous positive benefits for both women AND men. A decline in these sex hormones is highly associated with undesirable metabolic changes of aging, and altering the levels toward a more “youthful” profile can be seen to reverse or slow the aging process. (See the “Heart Healthy” note on DHEA, above).

In women, youthful hormone balance is associated with lower heart disease risk, protection from osteoporosis, breast cancer, depression and age-related memory changes, to name a few.

In men, youthful hormone balance is associated with increased virility and protection from heart disease, prostate cancer, depression and osteoporosis (yes, men get it to), to name a few.

The key difference between HRT and n-HRT is that n-HRT attempts to duplicate a normal hormone profile of a youthful body. Conventional HRT makes absolutely NO attempt to imitate nature, usually giving high doses of the most potent form of estrogen, which is the likely reason for its dismal failure.

Anyone past the age of 40, both men and women, may benefit from n-HRT. Because the “hormone milieu” is a complicated mix in each individual, the only safe and sane way to take hormones is to have a baseline hormone profile performed, and replacement therapy prescribed by an holistic physician. Because of the broad array of physical functions affected by sex hormone balance, this simple measure of evaluation and n-HRT is worth considering for anyone who wants to delay the aging process and enjoy better health past middle age.

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Soy: Risks and Benefits

Like most things in nature, the humble soy bean (Glycine max) can be healthful in moderation, harmful in excess. Because soy and soy products (tofu, miso, soy flour) are currently gaining a lot of media attention and popularity, it is important to understand the risks and benefits of this food and supplement.

Soy contains substances called protease inhibitors. In small to moderate amounts, these substances help prevent cancer and are also useful in controlling cancer. Soy has estrogenic effects, though much weaker than the human estrogen equivalent. For this reason, soy can increase the estrogen effect in someone who is deficient, or decrease the estrogen effect in one who has an excess. (Because it competes for the same receptors as the stronger mammalian estrogens, giving then less available places to bind). Soy may also improve cholesterol levels when eaten with some regularity. Believe me, you’ll be reading and hearing a lot more about this food in the months ahead, but please exercise moderation. Much of what you hear is “hype,” some is valuable medical advice.

Soy is a “goitrogen,” capable of inhibiting thyroid function when consumed in large amounts. In fact, I have seen some particularly sensitive people experience thyroid suppression when eating soy even in modest doses.

Further, soy is a type of protein that many people do not digest and tolerate well. It is especially likely to aggravate irritable bowel symptoms, causing gas and diarrhea, in those who are sensitive to it.

SO, who should eat soy? It appears to be a healthy and even helpful food for many people, 3 to 4 servings per week is my recommendation. If you experience bowel discomfort from eating soy, then this food is not for you. If you elect to eat larger amounts per week than this, consider having your thyroid function tested when you first add more soy to your diet, then again in 3 months to see if it has adversely affected your thyroid hormones levels.

For those who wish to obtain the benefits of soy (such as women desiring alternative to convention hormone replacement, or those with hormone-related cancers under their holistic physician’s guidance), soy supplements can be taken. These contain the isolated active ingredients of soy, primarily genistein and diadzein, without the gut-disturbing proteins that bother many.

I consider soy a useful protein source with positive health benefits when consumed in moderation. Just don’t fall for the plethora of media and soy-growers of America “over-hype” and fall prey to excess. “All things in moderation, including moderation”!

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The Shaman’s Lesson of Worth

I was a starry-eyed first year resident when I met the old man, a Shaman (medicine man and spiritual advisor) to his Native tribe in the four corner’s area of New Mexico. It had long been my goal to study with such a healer and learn the “secrets” of the Shaman’s ways. Now here I was, face-to-face with just such a One.

A young man came to see the Shaman about a health problem. From his appearance and description, I guessed him to be no more than twenty. He complained bitterly about the “strange sights” he saw on occasion. By Western standards, schizophrenia was a likely diagnosis. The young man clearly needed help. The Shaman told him that help was available, but that a week-long ceremony would be necessary. Then the Shaman told him the cost. The young man shook his head dejectedly and left. I questioned the Shaman.

What was the fee for the ceremony, and why had the young man gone away without treatment? I wanted to know. The Shaman explained that his fees were approximately equivalent to $6000 in Western money, but that people paid in other means of exchange like goats, sheep, baskets and food items. The man left because he did not have the required fee. Sensing that I was upset by this, the Shaman explained that the young man would return for treatment after he raised the necessary funds.

“But why don’t you help him now and let him pay later?” I wanted to know. “Aren’t there some people that are too poor to afford your services? Do you ever give your services away for free?”

“Never,” he assured me. Then the old man sat me down and carefully explained his reasoning.

“Health is a valuable commodity,” he began, looking to see if I agreed. I nodded. “Like other valuable commodities, the people who want it dearly enough will work to get it. As they work, they increase their appreciation of its value. When I give a man a healing service without a fee, he associates ‘free’ with ‘not valuable.’ The potency of any treatment is not only in the treatment, but also in a person’s belief in its value. When someone pays dearly for a ceremony, they show that they appreciate the value of my treatment. More importantly, they show themselves how much they value their health. A man who values his health will work hard to win it back, and he is more likely to recover.” He paused to let me take his words in.

“But what if someone really can’t afford your treatment?” I persisted.

“People can always afford my ceremonies if they value their health. A poor man will recruit his family to help him raise the necessary funds. If he has no family, he will petition the community to help him raise the necessary funds. By doing this, he will not only value the ceremony he receives, but he will feel the support and good wishes of the community for his recovery. Anyone who truly wants to get well can always find a way to afford the healing ceremony.” With that, the old man stood to indicate that we were through for the day.

In years since, the Shaman’s words have returned to haunt me. How many times have I heard people complain about the cost of supplements, or of my services, while they drive Mercedes, eat out twice a week, own a vacation home in the mountains and subscribe to cable T.V.? I believe that the old Shaman was right. The people who value their health will work to get it. They will pay to get it. And they will value it dearly when it returns.

Herbs for Metabolism and Weight Loss

Dana Myatt, N.D.

Definition: Overweight is body fat in excess often pounds above lean body mass index. Obesity is defined as 20% excess fat above lean body mass index. (BMI).1

Scope of the Problem: An estimated 34% of American adults are overweight with 25% being fully obese.2 more recent studies have suggested that as many as 75% of the adult population is at least some degree above their ideal body mass index.

Risk; Excess body fat is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, Type II diabetes, stroke (cerebrovascalar accident)3, various cancers (including prostate, all gynecological cancers4 5, gallbladder and colon cancer), benign prostatic hypertrophy6, cholelithiasis, infertility, arthritis, degenerative joint disease7, and impaired immune function.8 At only ten pounds above lean body mass index, most of these risks are increased, and the risk increases with increasing body fat.9 Heart disease and cancer are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States. This makes overweight/obesity the single biggest controllable risk factor for disease, and offers a major opportunity for disease prevention and risk intervention.

1Merkow R., Fletcher A. editors. The Merck Manual. 1992; 984
2Davis DL, et al. Decreasing cardiovascular disease and increasing cancer among whites in the United States from 1973 through 1987. JAMA 1994; 271:431-7
3Willett WC, Manson JE, Stampfer MJ, et al. Weight, weight changes, and coronary heart disease in women. JAMA 1995; 273:461-5
4Hunter DJ, Hankinson S£, Colditz GA, et al. Very low fat diets and risk of breast cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1996; 143
5Willett WC, et al. Dietary fat and fiber hi Relation to Risk of Breast Cancer. JAMA 1992; 268:2037-44.
6Giovannucci E, Rimm EB, Chute CG, et al. Obesity and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Am J Epidemiol 1994; 140:989-1002.
7Eichner ER. Infection, immunity, and exercise: What to tell patients. Physician Sports Medicine 1993;21:125-33.
8Palmblad J, Hallberg D, and Rossner S. Obesity, plasma lipids and polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte functions. Scand JHeamatol 1977;19:293-303.
9Manson JE, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, et al. Body weight and mortality among women. NEngUMed 1995; 333:677-85.

Action of Herbs for Overweight/Obesity

antioxidants: herbs that prevent free radical damage and control increased oxidative stress created by fat loss.

aperient: mild laxatives.

carminatives: herbs that help the body expel gas from the stomach, small intestines, or colon.

diuretic: herbs that stimulate the flow of urine

fiber: indigestible plant cell walls that have a variety of effects including increased fecal weight and size, delayed gastric emptying, unproved bowel transit time, cholesterol lowering and satiety.

nutritives: herbs that nourish. They usually have a high mineral content.

psychotropics: herbs used to affect mood.

stimulants: herbs that quicken functional action. They are usually, but not always, thermogenic.

thermogenics: herbs that increase basal metabolic rate. (BMR).

tonics: herbs that tone a physical system or function.

An Extremely Concise Materia Medica

Ephedra ( Ephedra sinica, E. vulgaris, E. nevadensis, E. antisyphihtica & other species) action: stimulant, thermogenic.

Kola ( Cola nitida, C. vera, C. accuminata) action: stimulant, tkermogemc.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) action: tonic to connective tissue via stimulation of glycosaminoglycan synthesis.1

Aesculus (Aesculus hippocastanum) action: venous tonic.2

i^ucus (Fucus vesiculosus) action: nutritive, esp. to thyroid gland due to high iodine content.

Silybum (silybum marianum) action: antioxidant. liver tonic and stimulant.

Taraxacum (Taraxacum officinale) action: aperient, nutritive, dieuretic.

Tea (Camellia sinesis) action: autioxidant, stimulant, thermogenic, lowers cholesterol.3

Bromelain (Ananas comosus) action: appetite inhibition and enhanced fat excretion.4

Coffee (Coffea arabica) caffeine/rnethylxanthine containing herbs action: stimulant, thermogenic.

Fiber (includes guar gum,psyllium, oat bran, wheat bran, pectin, vegetable fiber) action: satiety, decreases absorbed calories, stabilizes blood sugar levels, improves bowel transit time, aids excretion of cholesterol.5 6

Fructose action: greater thermogenesis as compared to glucose.7 8

Essential Fatty Acids: action: normalizes brown fat activity.910

Urtica (Urtica dioica) action: dieuretic, clears tissue acids, nutritive.

Mate (Ilex paraguayensis) action: stimulant, thermogenic.

Papaya ( Carica papaya) action: digestant.

Hypericum (Hypericumperforatum) action: psychotrophic.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum, P. hortense, P. sativum) action: dieuretic, nutritive, carminative.

l.Pointel, JP, Boccalon H, Cloarec M, et al. Titrated extract of centella asiatica (TECA) in the treatment of venous insufficiency of the lower limbs. Angiology 1987; 46-50
2.Aniioui F, Mauri A, Marincola F, and Kesele L.F. Venotonic activity of escin on the liurnan saphenous vein. Arzneim-Forsch 1979; 29:672-5.
3.Kouo S., et al. Green tea consumption and serum lipid profiles: a cross-sectional study in northern Kyushu, Japan. PrevMed 1992; 21;526-31.
4.Taussig S,, Batkin S. Broinelain, the enzyme complex of pineapple (Ananas coruosus) and its clinical application. JEthnopharm 1988; 22: 191-203.
S.Krotkiewski M. effect of guar on body weight, hunger ratings and metabolism in obese subjects. Clinical Science 1984; 66: 329-336.
6.Glore SR, et al, Soluable fiber and serum lipids: A literature review. J Am Diet Assoc 1994; 94: 425-36.
7.Schwarz JM, et al. Thermogenesis in men and women induced by fructose vs glucose added to a meal. Am J Clin Nutr 1989; 49: 667-74.
8. Macdonald I. differences in dietary-induced thermogenesis following the ingestion of various carbohydrates. Ann Nutr Metab 1984; 28:226-30.
9.Garcia CM, et al. Gamma iinoleiiic acid causes weight loss and lower blood pressure in overweight patients with family history of obesity. SwedJBiol Med 1986; 4:8-11.
 

Gymnema(Gymnema sylvestre)

Improves Insulin Production

Gymnema has been shown to lower fasting blood sugar levels and regenerate pancreatic cells that produce insulin. This is an incredibly important herb for diabetes, both type I and II.

Gymnema enhances insulin action, reduces fasting blood sugar levels (only in diabetics) and may stimulate islet cell regeneration. Gymnema is indicated in:

  • Type I, I.5 & II diabetes
  • Weight loss programs
  • Insulin resistance

Suggested dose: 2 caps (1,000+mg), 2-3 times per day between meals.

REFERENCES

1.) Mhasker KS, Caius JF. A study of Indian medicinal plants. II. Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. Indian J Med Res Memoirs 1930;16:2–75.
2.) Shimizu K, Iino A, Nakajima J, et al. Suppression of glucose absorption by some fractions extracted from Gymnema sylvestre leaves. J Vet Med Sci 1997;59:245–51.
3.) Shanmugasundaram KR, Panneerselvam C, Sumudram P, Shanmugasundaram ERB. Insulinotropic activity of G. sylvestre, R.Br. and Indian medicinal herb used in controlling diabetes mellitus. Pharmacol Res Commun 1981;13:475–86.
4.) Shanmugasundaram ER, Gopinath KL, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Rajendran VM. Possible regeneration of the islets of Langerhans in streptozotocin diabetic rats given Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:265–79.
5.) Prakash AO, Mather S, Mather R. Effect of feeding Gymnema sylvestre leaves on blood glucose in beryllium nitrate treated rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;18:143–4.
6.) Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. J Endocrinol 1999;163:207–12.

Diabetes (Adult Type II)

Natural Support To Prevent And Reverse This Condition

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition of abnormally high fasting blood sugar (above 126mg/dl) measured on two separate occasions.

Type I diabetes is caused by a destruction of pancreatic cells that produce insulin. It is a more serious condition, and more difficult to control, than type II.

Type II diabetes is related to Western diet and lifestyle and can almost always be controlled by diet and lifestyle changes alone.

A less recognized form of diabetes is Type 1.5 which may combine features of both Type I and Type II with some loss of endogenous insulin production as well as reduced sensitivity to available insulin. This type also responds very well to dietary and lifestyle changes and supplementation.

Uncontrolled diabetes (blood sugars that continue to go above the normal 120mg/dl) result in a four-fold increased risk of atherosclerotic heart disease and a five-fold increased risk of stroke. Diabetes also increases the risk of nerve damage leading to eye disease, peripheral neuropathy (nerve disorder), increased risk of infection, and compromised circulation sometimes resulting in gangrene. Persistent high blood sugar levels can stress and damage kidney (renal) function.

Diet And Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Diet: work with an alternative medicine physician to discover optimal diet. High carbohydrate, low calorie diets are often prescribed for diabetics, but low carbohydrate diets have been shown to work much better for most type II diabetics. A special version of the ketogenic diet — what Dr. Myatt calls “The Ketone Zone” — works fast and reliably to reverse DM. Individual guidance in diet will almost always correct Type II DM and help control Type 1.5 DM.
  • Maintain a normal weight. Overweight makes the body resistant to its own insulin. A low carbohydrate diet will reduce weight quickly and even modest weight loss helps significantly with blood sugar control.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise improves the body’s response to insulin, decreases blood sugar levels, normalizes weight and improves circulation.
  • Drink 64 ounces of pure water daily. Adequate water intake has a wide number of health benefits and specific to diabetes these include improved blood sugar regulation and improved liver and kidney function.

Primary Support

  1. Maxi Multi: 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Optimal (not minimal) doses of antioxidants (ACES), B complex vitamins, magnesium, chromium, vanadium and bioflavonoids are particularly important in correcting diabetes and preventing the damage that diabetes causes. Chromium picolinate is known to help improve insulin sensitivity.
  2. Omega 3 fatty acids – any or all of these:
    Flax seed meal, 2 teaspoons per day with food
    Flax seed oil capsules: 2-4 caps, 3 times per day
    Flax seed oil: 1 tablespoon per day
    MaxiMarine O3 (Omega-3 rich fish oil): 1 cap, 2 times per day with meals. Omega 3 deficiency contributes to insulin resistance and supplementation can reverse it.
    Diabetes increases cardiovascular risk factors in part through the inflammatory action of abnormally high blood sugars. O3 fatty acids have a potent anti-inflammatory effect. The Essential Fatty Acids are SO important that the U.S. Government officially recommended in 2003 that Americans get more Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids in their diet.
  3. Maxi Greens (Advanced Phytonutrient Formula): 3 caps, 3 times per day with meals. Bilberry, grape seed extract and ginkgo are particularly important since these potent antioxidants serve to strengthen blood vessels and protect the circulatory system.
  4. CoQ10 (50-100mg): 1 cap, 2-3 times per day with meals (target dose range: 150-400mg per day). CoQ10 is essential to mitochondrial function which can be comprimized in diabetes and should be considered a mandatory supplement for anyone taking statins fo cholesterol or by anyone with any cardiac risk factors.
  5. Increased Fiber Intake: A minimum of 20 grams of fiber daily will stabilize blood sugars and provide a host of other health benefits. Dietary fiber can be difficult to obtain in adequate amounts and most Americans get woefully little in their diet. Dr. Myatt has developed a “bread” substitute that is very low carb and very high fiber.
  6. Fiber Formula: 6-12 caps per day can be useful in maintaining a good fiber intake, especially when travelling and unable to make the “Myatt Bread” mentioned above.
  7. Berberine (200mg): I cap, 3 times per day with meals. Berberine has been found to be as effective for blood sugar control as the prescription drug metformin. Do not take both metformin and berberine – take one or the other. Do NOT stop taking metformin if it has been prescribed to you without discussing it with your doctor or other health care provider.

Additional Support

Urinary Tract Health:

  • D-mannose works by preventing bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract and not by direct antibiotic action soit does not have any of the potential for negative side-effects that antibiotics do. One teaspoon in 6 ounces of water drunk twice daily can help to prevent the urinary tract infections common in diabetics, and double that (i.e.: 4 times daily) can help to resolve urinary tract infections.

With High Cholesterol:

  • Red Yeast Rice: 2 caps, 2 times per day with meals. (Target Dose 2000 mg per day) Unlike isolated “statin” drugs, Red Rice Yeast contains a mixture of related but different statins that act synergistically. As a result, lower (and safer) doses of any one statin are taken. Red Rice Yeast has been shown to lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL levels.
    OR
  • Berberine (200mg): I cap, 3 times per day with meals. Berberine is a potent lipid-lowering compound and also has a moderate weight loss effect.

With Neuopathy (nerve pain):

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine: 500-1,000 mg, 2-3 times per day with meals. (Target dose range: 1,000- 2,000mg per day).Acetyl-L-Carnitine helps to restore insulin sensitivity.
  • Alpha lipoic acid: 300-1200 mg daily. Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces symptoms of neuropathy.

Since these two supplements create a powerful synergy when used together Dr. Myatt offers a high-potency supplement which combines both nutrients in a single formula. One bottle of ALA-ALC is equivalent to two bottles each of our separate ALA and ALC formulas. For those who need to take both nutrients in higher potencies, this represents asignificant savings and convenience.

  • Alpha Lipoic Acid / Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALA / ALC) One or two caps daily to improve insulin sensitivity and relieve symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. This combination also improves mitochondrial function (the “energy producing units” of the cell) is also involved in the conversion of carbohydrates to energy.

Dr. Myatt’s Comment

Diabetes leads to serious health complications. All of the problems associated with aging—-impaired circulation, decreases of hearing and eyesight, and heart disease are accelerated in uncontrolled diabetes. Fortunately, Type II diabetes is almost always controllable through diet, lifestyle, and corrective nutrients and herbs. Insulin is sometimes but rarely necessary (in instances of Type 1.5 diabetes) and may be preferable to other glucose-lowering drugs. It is important to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range, thus avoiding the multiple health risks and premature aging that diabetes causes.

I find that well over 90% of Type II diabetic patients can achieve normal-range glucose control by following a ketogenic diet and the above-listed primary support measures. If blood sugars are not dramatically improved (usually completely corrected!) after three months on this program, consult with an alternative medicine physician who can help you find the best diet and supplement program. I am available for consultation by telephone and I have an excellent success rate with type II diabetic patients.

References:

Kalman D. Chromium picolinate and type 2 diabetes. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2003; 78(1): 92.
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/78/1/192.1.full.pdf

Artemis P. Simopoulos, Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency and High Fructose intake in the Development of Metabolic Syndrome Brain, Metabolic Abnormalities, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Nutrients. 2013 Aug; 5(8): 2901–2923.
Published online 2013 Jul 26. doi: 10.3390/nu5082901
PMCID: PMC3775234
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775234/

Power RA, Hulver MW, Zhang JY, Dubois J, Marchand RM, Ilkayeva O, Muoio DM, Mynatt RL.Carnitine revisited: potential use as adjunctive treatment in diabetes. Diabetologia. 2007 Apr;50(4):824-32. Epub 2007 Feb 20.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00125-007-0605-4

Ziegler D, Ametov A, Barinov A, Dyck PJ, Gurieva I, Low PA, Munzel U, Yakhno N, Raz I, Novosadova M, Maus J, Samigullin R. Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy. Diabetes Care 2006; 29(11): 2365-70.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17065669

Consultations With Dr. Dana Myatt

Help Yourself To Good Health

Notice To New Patients:

Because of Dr. Myatt’s reputation of being the doctor to call when conventional medicine gives up she has been inundated with a number of extremely complicated patients.

In order that she may continue to provide all her patients the high levels of care and attention that they have come to rely upon she is accepting only very select new patients.

In order to determine suitability to be added to her caseload Dr. Myatt is requiring all those who wish to be taken on as new patients to first speak with her in a Brief Telephone Consultation.

DANA MYATT, N.M.D.

Member: American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (eligible)
President: ECAFH Foundation, Inc. (Exploring Complementary Answers for Health)
Author: A Physicians Diary
Professor: Atlantic University
Graduate: National College of Naturopathic Medicine

How May I Help You? Herbs Homeopathy Nutritional Evaluations Lifestyle Counseling Chinese Medicine Edgar Cayce Remedies Health Optimization Immune Enhancement Detoxification and Fasting Stress Reduction Health Education Weight Management

 

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DR. DANA MYATT
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Dr. Myatt And Nurse Mark Make “The Ultimate House Calls”!

Many of our private practice patents and Wellness Club Customers know that Dr. Myatt travels often to speak, teach, and lecture. When her travels bring her to areas where her patients live she is happy to schedule them for an in-person consultation, including examination and other therapeutic treatments. Patients may be seen in Dr. Myatt’s Wellness Club coach or even in the comfort of their own home. When visits can be scheduled to coincide with Dr. Myatt’s travel itinerary her customary consultation fees apply.

Your Own Private Naturopathic Doctor And Nurse – In Attendance:

For those who need the undivided attention of this unique doctor and nurse team, Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark can travel to your location where they will attend to your holistic health needs 24/7 if need be. This may include not only intensive care for the patient, it may include teaching for family members and caregivers or for staff such as personal chefs, personal assistants, housekeepers, or security staff.

You can be assured of absolute, inviolate confidentiality and respect for your privacy when working with Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark.

This is a unique and specialized service and it is not inexpensive. Not all patients will qualify for or benefit from this intensive in-home naturopathic medical care. Please contact Dr. Myatt for cost and availability and to determine your suitability for this ultimate health-restorative opportunity.

Is your situation more urgent?

Do you need Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark to attend you more quickly than is possible with road travel? (for road travel figure 500 miles per day from northern Arizona to your location)

Dr. Myatt will not travel by commercial (public) air carrier. She will consent to travel by private business aircraft and there is an airfield near her location that will accommodate this class of aircraft. (KTYL) Contact The Wellness Club to discuss this option.

Dr Myatt can also arrange to travel to your location by private plane. Nurse Mark is a licensed Private Pilot and their airplane allows them to reach you quickly and discretely. Requirements for visitations of this kind will include a destination airport with adequate runways and secure tie-downs and available fuel, appropriate transportation arrangements on arrival and during the visit, and appropriate accomodations for Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark while on location.

Piper Warrior II Private Airplane
Dr. Myatt and Nurse Mark can be at your side quickly if need be. Click on the picture above for more information about their aircraft.


Dr. Myatt’s Wellness Club Coach is 36 feet in length. She maintains contact with her patients and the internet via 2-way satellite. When in location she requires electrical service for her communications: 20 amps minimum.

Brief Consultations

Brief Consultations by telephone are available between 9 AM and 5 PM, Tuesday through Friday, Arizona time. When you checkout please tell us what times and dates would be best for your consultation – we will make every effort to accommodate your needs, subject to prior scheduling commitments. Please be sure that we have both a valid email and telephone number so we can contact you to arrange your appointment.

Please Note: Be sure that you are available at the telephone number you provide, at the time you have arranged, when Dr. Myatt calls you – there are no refunds for missed appointments!

In the very unlikely event that a medical emergency prevents Dr. Myatt from calling at your appointment time, you will be offered a full refund or a rescheduled appointment – your choice.

DO NOT send Dr. Myatt lab reports, medical records or summaries, or any other medical information unless you are booking a New Patient Visit Consultation! Any medical information that is received unsolicited will be treated as confidential medical records and will be destroyed immediately.

Medical records and other documentation can be sent to:

Dr. Myatts Wellness Club
Attn: Medical Records
PO Box 900
Snowflake, AZ 85937

It is of no benefit to send via “overnight” courier – USPS Priority Mail provides timely and inexpensive delivery to our location – usually as quickly as any “overnight” courier!