Toxic Teacher Syndrome-Multiple Chemical Sensitivities

A 25-year-old woman begins her new career as a 2nd grade school teacher. After many of years of preparation, this new educator is ready to serve the public and help her young students learn how to read and write. Beginning in a newly renovated school is an extra bonus, which makes our new teacher proud that she became part of the educational system. Everything is moving along fine.  She couldn’t be happier!

Three months passes by and our teacher has noticed that her concentration is just not right. She has been getting a little “edgy.” Definitely not like her. Her husband is concerned that maybe she is pushing herself a little too much and encourages her to simply slow down and pace herself. As the weeks go by, she begins experiencing headaches over her eyes and the back of her head. The headaches are now occurring more frequently a minimum of 3-4 times a week.

Six months into the school season and her symptoms are getting worse. In addition to her headaches, lack of concentration and irritability, she is now having insomnia, cries over nothing and has noticed an unusual tingling in her face, hands and feet. Concerned, our once “excited” trainer of children decides to see her family physician. After a brief consultation and a basic physical evaluation, her physician is confident she is again just overdoing it and recommends she lighten her workload. In the mean time, she is prescribed Xanax, a mild tranquilizer to settle her nerves. Feeling reassured that nothing is seriously wrong, our teacher returns to her young students and pushes on.

Another three months pass and this time our once highly motivated teacher is only a “shadow” of herself. It takes every ounce of energy to get started in the morning. She is having greater difficulty preparing her school assignments and simply is just exhausted! In a state of desperation she is referred to a psychiatrist. He diagnoses her with depression and prescribes an anti-depressant and also recommends counseling.

After two emotional years of trying an assortment of anti-depressants and hours of counseling, our young teacher is stuck in a nightmare. a web of medical labels… depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, stress … just name a few!

Is It Possible Something Has Been Missed?

Every year thousands of teachers are afflicted with a condition that simply “zaps” the life right out of them. Most physicians are at a total loss to understand what is behind this mysterious illness. Unfortunately, many people are looked at as hypochondriacs and continue to suffer year after year.

The Diagnosis

By a stroke of luck and a lot of prayer, our schoolteacher stumbled on a medical article that “painted” an exact picture of her health challenges. She was amazed to find that she was not alone and that thousands of other teachers were experiencing the same problem.

She was able to find a physician who was trained in making this difficult diagnosis and learned that she was suffering with something called “Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS).” Some physicians have coined the term “The Toxic Teacher Syndrome” due to the numbers of teachers suffering with the same symptoms.

What is MCS?

Chemical Sensitivity is not a new term. It has been around for many years. The diagnosis MCS was researched by allergist Theron G. Randolph, M.D. (1906-1995). Dr. Randolph discovered that many of his patients became ill from chemical substances that were normally considered safe at the recommended dosage. In the 1950s, Dr. Randolph concluded that people were failing to adapt to modern-day synthetic chemicals. As more research was done on the effects of MCS, doctors suggested that the immune system is like a barrel that continually fills with chemicals until it overflows and symptoms appear. Potential chemical toxins include:

• Formaldehyde which can be found in foam insulation, plywood, particleboard and press cabinets, fabric finishes, new carpet, polyurethane foam rubber (used in pillows, cushions, mattresses and rug padding), mobile homes, adhesives, synthetic clothes that crease resistant, wrinkle resistant
• Oil vapors: from oil furnaces, motor-oil air-conditioning filters, electric kitchen appliances such as food processors, blenders, can openers.
• Polyethylene plastics: fake leather, artificial flowers, shower curtains.
• Household chemicals such as dry cleaning chemicals in clothes, mothballs, rug-cleaning products, paints, solvents, stain removers, air fresheners, window washing compounds
• Polyesters in clothing, upholstery, drapery, furniture and stuffing for pillows and quilts.
• Pesticides residue on cottons and woolens; residues from exterminators.
• Epoxy adhesives on plastics, electronic equipment (TVs, microwaves,) which release gases when heated up.
• Common school paraphernalia such as carbon paper, ink, mimeographic and duplicating chemicals, glue

How do these chemicals cause health problems?

For most people the constant exposure to the above chemicals may not pose any health challenge. However, an individual may come in contact with a freshly painted room and begin to experience dizziness, nausea, headaches etc.. Usually, however, it requires the constant everyday exposure to various toxins that simply become cumulative and eventually overwhelm the body’s ability to eliminate them. When your detoxification system is in good working order, it protects you from low-level chemical build-up. It is interested that most of the sixty thousands chemicals in current use today have been developed in the last forty years. In other words, it seems quite clear that these chemicals are being made at a faster rate than our bodies are able to get rid of them.

Chemicals are noted to injure the part of the cell that produces energy causing swelling of the cell membrane and a decreased ability to pump out chemical toxins. When this occurs you can experience fatigue, weakness, poor memory, migraine headaches, insomnia, anxiety, etc..

So what happened to our teacher?

When the teacher first arrived in her new school, she was greeted with fresh paint, new carpet, new furniture etc.. which was all piled in her small room. This was further complicated by inadequate ventilation. When the chemical load to her system was too high, some of the chemicals were simply unable to be detoxified. This resulted in the slow accumulation of chemicals backing up in the blood causing her health to slowly spiral downward.

How was she helped?

Our schoolteacher was thoroughly evaluated receiving a physical examination, blood tests for liver function and a comprehensive detoxification blood test. This test is used to determine how well her body is getting rid of toxins.

A chemical blood exposure test was also performed. This test is extremely valuable in determining the levels of chemical toxins in the blood.

A checklist of suspected chemical toxins was done as well as an assessment of the schools ventilation system.

The Results

After suffering for a little over two years, her tests revealed the following:

1: The Liver Profile was normal.

2: The Detoxification Profile was seriously compromised resulting in an inability to process the load of chemicals.

3: The Chemical Testing revealed high levels of Formaldehyde, Toluene and Xylene.

4: The checklist accurately correlated with her high levels of chemicals in her blood.

5: As suspected, although the school received a face-lift with new furniture and a fresh coat of paint, the ventilation system was functioning at approximately 40% efficiency and needed a major overhaul!!

The Treatment

The first step was to begin treatment on improving her ability to detoxify including intravenous glutathione and Myer’s Cocktail.

The next step was for the school to upgrade the ventilation system and for the teacher to purchase a four-stage air filtration system for her classroom.

Finally, our teacher had a comprehensive safe environmental check of her classroom. Chemical toxins were replaced with non-toxic products. This was carried over to her home as well.

The Outcome

Within 2 weeks, our school teacher began to notice an improvement in her health. Her energy gradually increased, headaches were reduced to 1 every 2 weeks, the depression lifted, and insomnia was replaced by sound restful sleep. By the end of 2 and half months, she felt like her old self again and has continued to do well ever since.

Dr. DaSilva’s Comments:

This article presents a real case and demonstrates the sad fact that thousands of people are suffering needlessly. Unless a physician has studied and been trained in the diagnosis and treatment of environmental illness, many more people especially teachers and other professionals working in similar environmental surroundings will continue to develop MCS and unfortunately be “branded” un-diagnosable and sadly a hypochondriac. The truth of the matter is.. there is an answer and this answer can pull many people out of this nightmare.

References:

1: Rogers SA, Depression: Cured at Last. Prestige Publishing, Syracuse, N.Y., 1997

2: Rogers SA, Chemical Sensitivity, Part I, II, III, February-April 1992, Internal Medicine World Report, 322-D Englishtown Rd., Old Bridge NJ 088857

3: Ashford, Nicholus, J.D., PhD., and Miller, Claudia, M.D. Chemical Exposures-Low Levels and High Stakes. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1991

4: LoSasso GL, Rapport LJ, Axelrod BN.Neuropsychological symptoms associated with low-level exposure to solvents and (meth)acrylates among nail technicians. Neuropsychiatry Neuropsychol Behav Neurol. 2001 Jul-Sep;14(3):183-9.

5: Courtade S, Giordano-Labadie F, Bazex J. [Formaldehyde related textile allergy in atopic patient] Ann Dermatol Venereol. 2001 Jun-Jul;128(6-7):765-7.

6: Teng S, Beard K, Pourahmad J, Moridani M, Easson E, Poon R, O’Brien PJ. The formaldehyde metabolic detoxification enzyme systems and molecular cytotoxic mechanism in isolated rat hepatocytes. Chem Biol Interact. 2001 Jan 30;130-132(1-3):285-96.

7:Sorg BA, Bailie TM, Tschirgi ML, Li N, Wu WR Exposure to repeated low-level formaldehyde in rats increases basal corticosterone levels and enhances the corticosterone response to subsequent formaldehyde. Brain Res. 2001 Apr 20;898(2):314-20.

8:Pitten FA, Kramer A, Herrmann K, Bremer J, Koch S. Formaldehyde neurotoxicity in animal experiments. Pathol Res Pract. 2000;196(3):193-8.

9: Czap A The ultimate sick building syndrome. Altern Med Rev. 2001 Oct;6(5):447.

10: Kimmel R, Dartsch PC, Hildenbrand S, Wodarz R, Schmahl FW. [Insufficient ventilation as the etiology of illness perception in an elementary school] Gesundheitswesen. 2000 Dec;62(12):660-4.

11: Thorn A. Building-related health problems: reflections on different symptom prevalence among pupils and teachers. Int J Circumpolar Health. 1998 Oct;57(4):249-56.

12: Fischer FM, Morata TC, Latorre Mdo R, Krieg EF, Fiorini AC, Colacioppo S, Gozzoli L, Padrao MA, Zavariz C, Lieber R, Wallingford KM, Cesar CL. Effects of environmental and organizational factors on the health of shiftworkers of a printing company. J Occup Environ Med. 2001 Oct;43(10):882-9.

13: Gericke C, Hanke B, Beckmann G, Baltes MM, Kuhl KP, Neubert D. Multicenter field trial on possible health effects of toluene. III. Evaluation of effects after long-term exposure. Toxicology. 2001 Nov 15;168(2):185-209.

14: Juntunen J, Matikainen E, Antti-Poika M, Suoranta H, Valle M. Nervous system effects of long-term occupational exposure to toluene. Acta Neurol Scand. 1985 Nov;72(5):512-7.

15: Eller N, Netterstrom B, Laursen P. Risk of chronic effects on the central nervous system at low toluene exposure. Occup Med (Lond). 1999 Aug;49(6):389-95.

16: Jo WK, Kim SH. Worker exposure to aromatic volatile organic compounds in dry cleaning stores. AIHAJ. 2001 Jul-Aug;62(4):466-71.

17: Romieu I, Ramirez M, Meneses F, Ashley D, Lemire S, Colome S, Fung K, Hernandez-Avila Environmental exposure to volatile organic compounds among workers in Mexico City as assessed by personal monitors and blood concentrations. Environ Health Perspect. 1999 Jul;107(7):511-5.

The Hidden Link Between Parkinson’s and Autism

Autism and Parkinson’s disease are two seemingly unrelated conditions. Yet, they are tied together by a common denominator—glutathione deficiency.

Glutathione deficiency has been associated with several neurological and degenerative diseases. Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that has been shown to decrease with age, and these diminished levels manifest in increased oxidative stress associated with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism and Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS).¹

Glutathione is a molecule synthesized by the liver comprised of the amino acids glycine, cysteine and glutamate. Glutathione provides antioxidant activity protecting DNA and cell membranes from free radical damage, detoxifies external substances such as pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants, and enhances immune function.

Glutathione exists in the body in 2 forms: the reduced state and the oxidized, disulfide forms. Reduced glutathione reacts with and neutralizes free radicals, and in the process is converted into the oxidized form, which is no longer functional. Thus, sufficient levels of reduced glutathione are imperative to inhibit free radical damage.

The brain has very high levels of fats yet has relatively low levels of antioxidants. This creates a situation in which the brain is extremely vulnerable to fatty acid oxidation, called lipid peroxidation.² Many degenerative diseases of the brain can be traced back to lipid peroxidation.

Autism

Autism is one condition of particular interest that has been associated with decreased levels of glutathione. Autism is classified as a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), along with similar conditions such as Asperger disorder, disintegrative disorder, atypical autism, and Rett disorder. Autism, the classical presentation of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), has increased in pediatric prevalence by an astounding 556 percent between 1991 and 1997.³ Data estimates that 1 in 100 children have ASD.⁴ It is estimated that 673,000 US children have ASD,⁴ and males are four times more likely to have ASD than females.⁵

Autism is characterized by impaired social interaction. Children with autism also exhibit impaired communication, imaginative play, and range of interests and activities. Individuals with ASD also have difficulty with reciprocal social interaction and non-verbal cues such as facial expression, body posture, and eye-to-eye gaze. They often exhibit repetitive stereotyped behavior, repetitive motor mannerisms and require strict routines or rituals. As parents, teachers and family members know, each child with autism presents uniquely as an individual relative to symptoms and severity.

Research is showing that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of autism, although the exact cause of the disease is unknown. Research has shown that monozygotic (identical) twins have a concordance of greater than 60 percent, meaning that if one twin has the disease, the other twin has the same disease 60 percent of the time. When the researchers looked at the concordance rate for monozygotic twins and all PDD’s, they found a 92 percent concordance rate and 10 percent concordance rate for dizigotic (fraternal) twins. In addition, siblings of autistic children have a reoccurrence rate ranging from 2-8 percent, which is much higher than the general population.³

Studies have shown that children with autism have significantly decreased plasma total glutathione levels compared to healthy children.⁶ Furthermore, research has shown that the reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) redox ratio was decreased and the percentage of oxidized glutathione is increased in lymphoblastoid cells (LCLs) derived from autistic children compared to unaffected controls. Additionally, this study showed that exposure to oxidative stress via thimerosal, a mercury-containing compound found in some vaccinations, resulted in a greater decrease in the GSH/GSSG ratio and increase in free radical generation in autism compared to cells from unaffected children.

The study authors stated, “These results suggest that the autism LCLs exhibit a reduced glutathione reserve capacity in both cytosol and mitochondria that may compromise antioxidant defense and detoxification capacity under pro-oxidant conditions.”⁷ Similarly, another study showed that children with autism have significantly decreased plasma levels of reduced glutathione and significantly increased plasma oxidized glutathione compared to healthy children. This study also found that subjects with severe ASDs had significantly increased mercury intoxication-associated urinary porphyrins, which correlated to oxidized glutathione levels. These results suggest that mercury intoxication is significantly associated with autistic symptoms, and ASD is associated with increased oxidative stress and decreased detoxification capacity.⁸

Additional research has shown that lipid peroxidation is significantly higher and glutathione and vitamin E levels are significantly lower in children with autism compared to healthy children. Also, the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were significantly upregulated in autistic children compared to the control group. These researchers concluded that this study suggested the possibility of antioxidant supplementation for the early intervention with autistic children.⁹ Another study found that 45 percent of children with autism have decreased natural killer (NK) cell activity, which is a white blood cell important for fighting infections, and that the decrease in NK activity correlated with decreased intracellular level of glutathione. Cells from the affected children were treated with cellular mediators and glutathione, which restores NK cell activity.¹⁰

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is another neurological condition associated with glutathione deficiency. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder associated with a loss of the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. It is estimated that over 500,000 individuals in the U.S. have Parkinson’s disease, and approximately 50,000 new cases are reported annually. The average age of onset is approximately 60, and it is slightly more common in men than women.¹¹

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by a resting tremor, including trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face; rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; bradykinesia or akinesia, which is slow movements or the inability to move: and impaired balance and coordination. Other symptoms may include depression and other emotional changes; sleep disruption; difficulty in swallowing, chewing, and speaking; and problems with urination, constipation, or the skin. As the condition progresses, individuals may have difficulty walking, talking or completing other simple tasks.

Parkinson’s disease occurs from the loss of sufficient dopamine production in the portion of the brain called the substantia nigra. The substantia nigra is an area within the basal ganglia that contains dopaminergic (dopamine-producing) cells located at the base of the cerebral cortex, which helps control coordination and movement. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for controlling voluntary movement and coordination, and death of dopaminergic cells causes loss of coordination and voluntary movement.

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unclear; it is likely to have both genetic and environmental factors. The development of Parkinson’s disease is strongly associated with exposure to environmental toxins. Studies have shown that the degree of hydrocarbon solvent exposure during a person’s lifetime is a major risk factor for

Parkinson’s disease development.¹² Hydrocarbon solvents cause damage to cells in the brain by lipid peroxidation. Oxidative stress has been implicated to play a major role in the neuronal cell death associated with Parkinson’s disease.

One of the earliest biochemical changes seen in Parkinson’s disease is a reduction in the levels of total glutathione. This decrease in glutathione levels was believed to be due to increased oxidative stress, a process heavily implicated in the pathology of this disease. However, recent evidence now suggests that glutathione depletion may itself play an active role in causing Parkinson’s disease.¹³ In fact, data indicates that there is a 40-50 percent deficit in total glutathione levels in the substantia nigra in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.¹⁴

In addition, research has shown a decrease in systemic antioxidants, including the enzyme glutathione peroxidase in red blood cells and plasma vitamin E levels, with an increase in markers of oxidative stress such as plasma malondialdehyde.¹⁵ A similar study showed that subjects with Parkinson’s disease have a reduction in antioxidant enzyme activity in red blood cells including glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which was directly correlated to the severity of the disease.¹⁶ In a recently published study, glutathione was given to subjects with Parkinson’s disease who had motor symptoms not adequately controlled by medication. Subjects received 1,400 mg of intravenous glutathione or placebo three times per week for 4 weeks. The results showed that Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale activity of daily living and motor scores improved by a mean of 2.8 units more in the glutathione group compared to the placebo group. Also, the subject’s symptoms returned after discontinuing the glutathione.¹⁷

Intravenous Glutathione

Intravenous glutathione is the most highly absorbable form of glutathione, and can be administered to increase glutathione levels, fight free radical damage, and promote detoxification. IV administration remains the state of the art method of Glutathione administration, which readily crosses the blood-brain-barrier for optimal brain and body detoxification.   It is safe and inexpensive and can be given over 15-minutes, which makes this treatment an obvious choice for those who wish to prevent the onset, reduce the risk or reduce the symptoms of those afflicted with neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusion

A hallmark of numerous neurological diseases is a reduction in antioxidants, including glutathione. In both autism and Parkinson’s disease, numerous studies indicate that deficient glutathione may play a role in the development and progression of these conditions. Intravenous supplementation with glutathione may help fight the oxidative stress and free radical damage associated with these diseases.

References

1. Bains JS, Shaw CA. Neurodegenerative disorders in humans: the role of glutathione in oxidative stress-mediated neuronal death. Brain Res Brain Res Rev. 1997 Dec;25(3):335-58.

2. Volchegorskii IA, Malinovskaya NV, Shumelyova OV, et al. Dynamics of LPO products and oxidative modification of proteins in human brain during postnatal development. Bull Exp Biol Med. 2007 Aug; 144(2):192-9.

3. Muhle R, Trentacoste SV, Rapin I. The genetics of autism. Pediatrics. 2004 May;113(5):e472-86.

4. Kogan MD, Blumberg SJ, Schieve LA, Boyle CA, Perrin JM, Ghandour RM, Singh GK, Strickland BB, Trevathan E, van Dyck PC. Prevalence of Parent-Reported Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children in the US, 2007. Pediatrics. Published online October 5, 2009.

5. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Autism Information Center. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5601a2.htm. Accessed on: 12-13-09.

6. James SJ, Cutler P, Melnyk S, et al. Metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidative stress and impaired methylation capacity in children with autism. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Dec;80(6):1611-7.

7. James SJ, Rose S, Melnyk S, et al. Cellular and mitochondrial glutathione redox imbalance in lymphoblastoid cells derived from children with autism. FASEB J. 2009 Aug;23(8):2374-83.

8. Geier DA, Kern JK, Garver CR, et al. Biomarkers of environmental toxicity and susceptibility in autism. J Neurol Sci. 2009 May 15;280(1-2):101-8.

9. Al-Gadani Y, El-Ansary A, Attas O, et al. Metabolic biomarkers related to oxidative stress and antioxidant status in Saudi autistic children. Clin Biochem. 2009 Jul;42(10-11):1032-40.

10. Vojdani A, Mumper E, Granpeesheh D, et al. Low natural killer cell cytotoxic activity in autism: the role of glutathione, IL-2 and IL-15. J Neuroimmunol. 2008 Dec 15;205(1-2):148-54.

11. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Parkinson’s Disease Backgrounder. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/parkinsons_disease/parkinsons_disease_backgrounder.htm. Accessed on: 12-10-09.

12. Jenner P. Oxidative mechanisms in nigral cell death in Parkinson’s disease. Mov Disord 1998;13 Suppl 1:24-34.

13. Martin HL, Teismann P. Glutathione–a review on its role and significance in Parkinson’s disease. FASEB J. 2009 Oct;23(10):3263-72. Epub 2009 Jun 19.

14. Zeevalk GD, Razmpour R, Bernard LP. Glutathione and Parkinson’s disease: is this the elephant in the room? Biomed Pharmacother. 2008 Apr-May;62(4):236-49.

15. Chen CM, Liu JL, Wu YR, et al. Increased oxidative damage in peripheral blood correlates with severity of Parkinson’s disease. Neurobiol Dis. 2009 Mar;33(3):429-35.

16. Abraham S, Soundararajan CC, Vivekanandhan S, et al. Erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes in Parkinson’s disease. Indian J Med Res. 2005 Feb;121(2):111-5.

17. Hauser RA, Lyons KE, McClain T, et al. Randomized, double-blind, pilot evaluation of intravenous glutathione in Parkinson’s disease. Mov Disord. 2009 May 15;24(7):979-83.

18. eevalk G, Guilford F, Bernard L. Liposomal glutathione for replenishment and maintenance of intracellular glutathione in mesencephalic cultures. Abstract Neuroscience 2009: Soc. for Neuroscience 2009.

Resveratrol Turns On Longevity Genes

RESVERATROL

Resveratrol is a phytonutrient found mainly in the skin of red grapes discovered by Dr. David Sinclair at Harvard Medical School.  GlaxoSmithKline purchased the outstanding shares of Dr. Sinclair’s laboratory, Sirtis Pharmaceuticles for $720 million thus supporting the importance of this amazing substance.

Resveratrol activates a “longevity gene” that reduces high-fat diet related deaths.  The effects of Resveratrol mimic those of calorie restriction, the only proven way of extending maximum life span.  Resveratrol activates one of the same “sirtuin (SIR)” genes as calorie restriction and has been called a “calorie restriction mimetic”.

Resveratrol has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease & stroke by inhibiting the formation of blood clots and bad cholesterol LDL.  It has also been shown to be neuroprotective and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  It has also been shown to block the start and spread of cancer.  It is a powerful antioxidant and antiviral agent.  It can improve spinal cord injury damage better than prednisone.

Resveratrol is a potent antioxidant protector, estrogen protector, cardio-protector, cancer protector, viral protector and neural protector.

Resveratrol possesses a “novel mechanism” for scavenging radicals in Alzheimer’s patients.  It reduces the frequency of DNA mistakes.  It should not only improve Diabetes but also minimize complications such as Diabetic Neuropathy.

Glutathione shown to protect against neurological disease

Found in living plant and animal tissue, the antioxidant glutathione is a powerful substance that may help slow the aging process and fight disease. Antioxidants work by attacking and neutralizing free radicals—damaging compounds formed by various body functions or taken in from the environment.

Free radicals cause harmful chemical reactions that can damage cells, making it harder to fight off infections and lowering defenses against conditions such as cancer and heart disease. In fact, free radical damage may be the basis for the aging process.

According to Dr. Jörg Schulz and colleagues, “there is significant evidence that the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Friedreich’s ataxia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, may involve the generation of [free radicals].” As you may or may not know, Friedreich’s ataxia is the progressive dysfunction of the cerebellum, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, while amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a fatal neurological condition that attacks the nerve cells (neurons) responsible for controlling voluntary muscles.

Researchers conclude that “if alterations in glutathione metabolism play an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, treatments that lead to enhanced synthesis of glutathione or that inhibit its degradation may result in a slowing of disease progression.”

However, since glutathione cannot be directly transported into brain tissue, intravenous infusion is the best option.  In addition, glutathione precursors such as N-acetylcysteine and alpha-lipoic acid are necessary to ensure adequate glutathione levels and proper neuroprotection.

Eur J Biochem 2000;267(16):4904-11.

Quick Guide to Gluten Free

Restricted to a gluten-free diet?  Here’s a Guide.

Gluten-free eating can be quite a challenge for people with Gluten sensitivity and Celiac disease (which is the GI manifestation of Gluten sensitivity). Although these conditions are different, people diagnosed with Gluten-sensitivity and celiac disease may be treated with gluten-free diets.

Gluten sensitivity and Celiac disease (CD) is a permanent, life-long genetic disorder affecting children and adults. When people with Gluten sensitivity or CD eat foods that contain gluten, it creates an immune-mediated toxic reaction that causes damage to numerous organ systems including the peripheral and central nervous system (brain), cardiovascular system (heart), the gastrointestinal system (esophagus, stomach, small bowel (classic Celiac disease), and colon), endocrine system (type one diabetes, other hormone dysfunction), and immune system causing autoimmunity (Sjogren’s, Rheumatoid arthritis, Hoshimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves disease, lymphoma, etc.).

Treatment modalities for the various condition are many times difficult to treat even after going Gluten free. Therefore seeking a Function Diagnostic Medical doctor to assess and treat these disorders is highly advised, for these conditions often lead to life-long disability.

Gluten sensitivity Even the smallest amount of gluten can cause an adverse affect on a person living with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Currently, gluten status is not required to be stated on food labels, so it may be difficult to identify gluten-free foods.

Here are some shopping tips to help you select gluten-free foods (remember to read your labels carefully).

Grains not allowed in any form:

Wheat (Einkorn, Durum, Faro, Graham, Kamut, Semolina, Spelt), Rye, Barley and Triticale.  This list is not meant to be an exhaustive resource.  It does not include alcohol, which often times contains Gluten (Beer, Gin, Whiskeys, etc.).

Produce:

All fresh fruit and vegetables are gluten free.

Dairy:

Milk, buttermilk, butter, 100 percent cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, eggs, egg substitutes, half and half, and sour cream are gluten free. Yogurt, plain ice cream and frozen yogurt, pudding, whipped toppings and soymilk are mostly gluten free. Check the ingredient list to make sure barley malt, rye or wheat containing toppings, flavorings, or fillers are not added.  Caution:  Many with Celiac disease are also Lactose intollerant.

Meats and poultry:

Most meats and poultry are gluten-free, except for those that are breaded or marinated in a gluten-containing mixture. Select poultry, beef and pork that contain no additives listed on the ingredients.

Fish and seafood:

All fresh fish and seafood is gluten free, unless it is breaded or in a gluten-containing marinade.

Dry goods:

Choose plain dry beans and peas, rice, rice-pasta, Gluten-free flours and plain, uncoated dried fruit. Add your own seasonings and sauces. Gluten-free grains and flours include almonds, amaranth, beans, buckwheat, coconut, cornmeal, grits, millet, oats (labeled gluten free), potato, quinoa, rice and sorghum. Most regular cereals are not gluten free even when the product says corn, rice, or wheat free. Often there are added ingredients or there is gluten contamination during production. Always look for a “gluten-free” claim on the label.

Canned goods and beverages:

Tomato products, most unseasoned vegetables, beans and canned fruits are gluten free. Juice, tea, most sodas and sparkling water are gluten free.

Spreads, dressings and seasonings:

Jams, jellies, peanut and nut butters, fruit butters, applesauce, oils and many salad dressings are gluten free, but check each brand. Use pure herbs and spices, salt, pepper, sweeteners, distilled vinegar (apple cider, rice, balsamic, white, grape, wine) and only soy sauce that is labeled gluten free.

Frozen:

Plain, frozen vegetables and fruits, ice pops, ice cream and most sherbet are gluten free.

Bakery:

Little, if any, gluten-free items can be found in the bakery, except in some specialty stores. Check the freezer section for gluten-free, prepared baked goods or purchase gluten-free bread, cake and cookie mixes.

Snacks:

Select 100 percent corn and potato chips, plain and salted nuts, popcorn, rice crackers and corn and rice cakes.

A gluten-free lifestyle remains a challenge for many people. When in doubt about a product, always contact the food manufacturer. Contact information can be found on the Internet or product packages.  Happy eating!

Nutritional Advances In Antiaging Medicine

An important aspect of Antiaging Medicine is proper nutrition.  Previous generations were able to count on their everyday diets to provide a daily dose of nutrients.

Today, everyday healthy eating is a thing of the past.

Healthy foods are hard to come by and are oftentimes expensive.

Nutraceuticals are nutritional supplements such as vitamins, herbs, oils or minerals that are used to replace the vitamins and minerals that we can’t get in our present diet.  They also help augment the unhealthy or malnourished foods that we do eat.

The best way to eat to maintain a healthy lifestyle is to eat organic fruits and vegetables and wild game or fish.  In the United States, however, the soil where our food is grown has become depleted of natural vitamins and minerals.  This has caused the fruits and vegetables we eat to be lower in nutrient value than what our bodies need.   Organic produce does not use pesticide and the organic soil that farmers’ use has added nutrients.  The problem America faces today is that we are too busy to take the time to shop and prepare healthy, homemade meals.  We too frequently eat fast, processed foods that not only limit our intake of nutrients but also increase inflammation in our body putting us at risk for illness and dysfunction.

With many supplements or nutraceuticals on the market the decision of what to buy can be confusing.  The following tips will help you know where to buy your supplements and which ones you need.

First, it is important to find a company that does testing on their products to make sure there are no toxins or contamination in the product.

Second, you want a company that makes their own product.  This way the company you are buying from knows what is in the product and why.

Third, be aware that most of the highest quality supplements and nutraceuticals can only be obtained through your physician.  Many store bought products do not have the quality, freshness or complete balance that you need.

Finally, look for a company that does testing and research to double check the supplements structure, making sure of its ingredients and purposes.  It is important to use a pharmaceutical grade supplement because they guarantee to meet these requirements.    I find that when patient’s opt to hunt and purchase products from health food stores and the internet that don’t meet these standards, they often fall short of the results we are trying to achieve.

How about supplements Over the Counter?

Buying products over the counter can be convenient and inexpensive but the danger can lie in its contents.  Over the counter supplements are not standardized and the ingredient list may not always be complete.  It can also be dangerous to mix certain supplements with certain medications.  Other nutrients, such as fat-soluble vitamins can also be dangerous if you take too much.

Other supplements come with the famed label “proprietary blend.”  This notation makes it nearly impossible to figure out exactly what is in the capsules they come in.

In today’s society, intermixed with toxins, pesticides, stressors, and radiation, it is important to protect yourself through living a healthy lifestyle filled with good nutrition, supplements, exercise, stress management and hormone balancing.  It is best to seek your physician’s opinion on the supplements you should be taking and where to get them.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPLEMENTS

Supplements can be used for prevention, to help augments traditional medicine, or as an alternative therapy.  They are the spark plugs and catalysts required for all physiologic reaction in the body.

Let us learn about some of my favorite supplements that are gaining interest in antiaging medicine.

FATTY ACIDS

By tracking the diet of 4,775 adults for 12 years in 2005, Harvard scientists revealed an association between certain types of risk meals and risk of stroke in men and women aged 65 and over. Eating broiled or baked fish one to four times weekly lowered stroke risk by 28%. Dining on the same fish five or more times per week reduced the risk by 32%. Fried fish and fish sandwich consumption caused 37% increased risk of stroke.

Fatty fish rich in EFA omega-3 fats, which help to alter cholesterol and triglycerides and prevent blood platelets from sticking to artery walls, have gained much positive attention as health-promoting foods.  But some fish should be avoided due to high levels of methyl mercury.  Farmed salmon may contain up to 16 times the PCH levels depending on what they are fed, and this is linked to cancer, neurological impairment, and developmental delays in children.

Trout, tuna, and halibut are rich in omega-3, iron, and magnesium, but are high in methyl mercury. Limit your consumption of these.

Swordfish and shark are very high in methyl mercury and should be totally avoided.

Buyer be aware when purchasing fish-oil to supplement their Omega-3 requirements.  This is because, manufacturers of these supplements typically state “no evidence of mercury” when in fact their method of detection is suboptimal.  I recommend an ultra-purified oil that has been tested free of mercury in parts per trillion, rather than the standard of parts per thousand, which is still toxic to humans.

Diseases currently being treated with Omega-3 and Omega-9 fatty acids include heart disease, high triglyceride, high blood pressure, depression, arthritis, Psoriasis, autoimmune diseases, Crohn’s disease, cancer prevention, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, irregular heart rhythms, memory and cognitive decline, eczema, schizophrenia, ulcerative colitis, constipation and much more.

A compound found in olive oil (an Omega-9 fatty acid, called oleocanthal, has anti-inflammatory properties much like those associated with the pain killer ibuprofen,  an NSAID, found US researchers in 2005.  Oleocanthal inhibits Cox enzymes responsible for the inflammation response implicated in headaches and joint pain.  This study not only supports the notion that regular consumption of olive oil might have some of the long term health benefits of ibuprofen, but may help explain olive oils widely reported health benefits such as in lowering the rates of heart disease and cancer in populations that consume it in large quantities (such as in Mediterranean countries).   The study authors conclude that “our findings raise the possibility that long-term consumption of oleocanthal may help to protect against some diseases.”

COENZYME Q10

Coenzyme Q10 also known as CoQ10 is a fat soluble nutrient.  It is made in almost every tissue in the body; however, the amount the body makes declines by age 10.  CoQ10 is one of the most powerful anti-oxidants in our body but its main area of responsibility is in the energy-producing metabolic pathway of all cells, namely aerobic respiration in the Kreb’s cycle within the mitochondria.  Without CoQ10 one gets muscle aches and fatigue similar to that seen in Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Cholesterol lowering drugs (statins) deplete the body of CoQ10 and as a consequence have a very serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis whereby the muscle is destroyed.  Another symptom directly related to the statin-CoQ10 depletion syndrome is fatigue, muscle weakness and even erectile dysfunction.

CoQ10 is a very large molecule making it very difficult to absorb upon ingestion and absorption by the stomach.  Many over-the-counter and internet brands of CoQ10 are never absorbed by the stomach and therefore never reach the blood stream or cells.

CoQ10 also enhances the regeneration of vitamin E, reduces platelet stickiness, and lowers blood pressure and increase sperm count.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has shown that CoQ10 levels are frequently low in cancer patients.  Supplementation of CoQ10 has been shown to extend the life span of patients with breast, colon, prostate, rectal, lung, and pancreatic cancers (http://cancerweb.nci.ac.uk/cancernet/600916.htm).

CoQ10 has been used in the treatment of breast cancer. Dosages of 300-390 mg a day have resulted in complete regression of residual tumors in breast cancer (Lockwood, L., et al., “Partial and complete regression of breast cancer in patients in relation to dosage of coenzyme Q-10,” Biochem Biophys Res Commun,” 1994; 199(3):1504-08.  Lockwood, L., et al., “Progress on therapy of breast cancer with vitamin Q-10 and the regression of metastases,” Biochem Biophy Res Commun 1995; 212(1):172-77).

CoQ10 has been shown to protect against certain types of chemotherapy drug-induced damage to the heart (Cortes, E., et al., “Adriamycin cardiotoxicity: early detection by systolic time interval and possible prevention by coenzyme Q-10,” Cancer Treat Rep 1978; 62(6):887-91.  Conklin, K., et al., “Coenzyme Q-10 for prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity,” Integr Cancer Ther 2005; 4(2):110-30).

Low levels of plasma coenzyme Q-10 are associated with an increased risk of melanoma metastasis (Rusciani, L., et al., “Low plasma coenzyme Q10 levels as an independent prognostic factor for melanoma progression,” Jour Amer Acad Dermatol 2006; 54(2):234-41).

L-CARNITINE

L-Carnitine is an amino acid also responsible for energy production in the mitochondria via ATP production.  It converts stored body fat into energy and also energizes the heart.  L-Carnitine helps reduce triglycerides and cholesterol and raises the good cholesterol HDL.  L-Carnitine has also been shown to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and prevent DNA break down.  L-Carnitine improves mental focus and energy and enhances short and long term memory.

RESVERATROL

Resveratrol is a phytonutrient found mainly in the skin of red grapes discovered by Dr. David Sinclair at Harvard Medical School.  GlaxoSmithKline purchased the outstanding shares of Dr. Sinclair’s laboratory, Sirtis Pharmaceuticles for $720 million thus supporting the importance of this amazing substance.

Resveratrol activates a “longevity gene” that reduces high-fat diet related deaths.  The effects of Resveratrol mimic those of calorie restriction, the only proven way of extending maximum life span.  Resveratrol activates one of the same “sirtuin (SIR)” genes as calorie restriction and has been called a “calorie restriction mimetic”.

Resveratrol has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease & stroke by inhibiting the formation of blood clots and bad cholesterol LDL.  It has also been shown to be neuroprotective and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  It has also been shown to block the start and spread of cancer.  It is a powerful antioxidant and antiviral agent.  It can improve spinal cord injury damage better than prednisone.

Resveratrol is a potent antioxidant protector, estrogen protector, cardio-protector, cancer protector, viral protector and neural protector.

Resveratrol possesses a “novel mechanism” for scavenging radicals in Alzheimer’s patients.  It reduces the frequency of DNA mistakes.  It should not only improve Diabetes but also minimize complications such as Diabetic Neuropathy.

VITAMIN D3

Prostate cancer is a major cause of death among men, claiming 56, 000 European men in 1998, and 29, 000 American men in 2004.  To date, no obvious preventive strategies are known.  In 2005, scientists from Northern California Cancer Center proposed that Vitamin D could cut prostate cancer risk. In men with certain genetic variants, high sun exposure reduced prostate cancer risk by as much as 65%. The prostate uses Vitamin D from sun exposure to promote normal growth of prostate cells and to inhibit the invasiveness and spread of prostate cancer cells to other parts of the body. Omega-3 fatty acids have the same protective effect, as does the epigallocathechin gallate from green tea.  Foods rich in Vitamin D like egg yolks, liver and cod liver oil, soymilk, and dairy products, some orange juices and margarines.  Cereals may be fortified with Vitamin D, but taking simple supplements of Vitamin D3 is a simple insurance. Have your blood levels of 25 OH Vitamin D measured yearly and correct any deficiency.

Other therapeutic benefits of Vitamin D3 include Migraine Headaches, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Musculoskeletal Pain, Autoimmune, Inflammatory Conditions, Depression, Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis and many others.

Cancer prevention and treatment, and Fibromyalgia.  Vitamin D3 deficiency has been found to be a cause of heart failure (Kini, S., et al., “A reversible form of cardiomyopathy,” J. Postgrad Med 2003; 49(1):85-7).

The progression of osteoarthritis is lessened by adequate vitamin D3 (McAlindon., T., et al., “Relation of dietary intake and serum levels of vitamin D to progression of osteoarthritis of the knee among participants in the Framingham study,” Ann Int Med 1996; 125(5):353-9).

Defend against atomic pickpockets: Antioxidant supplements and foods with Vitamin A, C, E and Selenium protect cells by neutralizing free radicals, atomic fragments that cause cellular destruction and produce metabolic waste.  Numerous studies point to the value of Vitamin A in boosting immunity as it enhances TH2 (T helper cell type 2) mediated immune responses necessary for fighting bacterial and parasitic infections. Several studies have shown that Vitamin A is a potent stimulator of growth hormone production.  Therapeutic daily dosing:  7, 000 to 10,000 IU. Except for those over the age of 65, with liver disease, and women who are or could become pregnant.  These people should speak with their doctor as limited Vitamin A intake may be appropriate.

VITAMIN C

Antioxidant supplements and foods with Vitamin A, C, E, and Selenium protect cells by neutralizing free radicals, atomic fragments that cause cellular destruction and produce metabolic waste.

Vitamin C raises good cholesterol and prevents bad cholesterol from oxidation, which subsequently prevents the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque on blood vessel walls contributing to cardiovascular disease.  In a study by UCLA School of Health, men who took Vitamin C daily had a 45% lower risk of heart attack than men whose intake was less than the US RDA.  Vitamin C has also been found to lower the risk of stroke.  In one study, men who had relatively low blood levels of Vitamin C were 2.4 times more likely to have a stroke than men with the highest blood levels of the nutrient. In a separate study, women who took supplemental Vitamin C over a ten-year period were 77% less likely to develop lens opacities– the beginning stage of cataracts.

VITAMIN E

Antioxidant supplements protect against free radical damage.

The alpha tocopherol beta carotene study, which involved more than 29,000 men, revealed that those who took Vitamin E supplements were 32% less likely to develop prostate cancer and 41% less likely to die from the disease.  In 2005, researchers involved in the women’s health study, the largest trial to date involving Vitamin E supplementation, reported that natural alpha tocopherol supplementation significantly lowered the risk of premature death, especially by heart attack and stroke, and particularly in women over age 65.  A separate study found that consuming high dietary levels of Vitamin E could lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by as much as 70%.  Choose only mixed natural source Vitamin E tocopherols.

SELENIUM

Antioxidant vitamins and minerals protect against free radical damage.  Selenium is an essential trace element, necessary for growth and protein synthesis.  It helps to increase the effectiveness of Vitamin E, another key antioxidant. Selenium may help to prevent cardiovascular diseases by increasing levels of good cholesterol, lowering levels of bad cholesterol and decreasing the stickiness of blood to reduce the risk of blood clots in arteries supplying the heart and brain. Selenium has been shown to offer protection against a number of different types of cancer. Results of two five-year studies at Cornell University and the University of Arizona revealed that daily supplemental selenium cut the incidence of prostate cancer by 63%, colorectal tumors by 58%, and lung cancer by 46%. In these studies all told the death rate from cancer of people who took supplemental selenium was found to be 39% lower than that of the general population.

SPICES FOR LONG LIFE

Capsaicin in chili pepper relieves pain topically; allicin in garlic can reduce cholesterol and BP.

Curcumin, found in turmeric, which gives curry spice its yellow color, protects against Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) by triggering production of a protein that fights free radical damage in the brain.

It may help treat skin cancer, in a 2005 study by the University of Texas Anderson Cancer Center, melanoma cell lines treated with Curcumin showed decreased cell viability and higher cell death. In a 2005 study by University of Texas researchers, Curcumin stopped breast cancer from spreading in a mouse model. Also being tested in multiple myeloma, pancreatic cancer, and in prevention of oral cancers.

B12/FOLATE/B6

Homocysteine linked to cardiovascular risk, is associated with lower scores on tests that evaluate cognitive skills (thinking, reasoning, remembering, imagining, and learning words). In a 2005 study of data from the VA normative aging study, tracking men between 50 and 85 yrs Tufts University found that men with higher blood levels of folate, pyridoxine, and cobalamin were able to retain their verbal skills and spatial perception skills. High Homocysteine levels were found to decrease recall memory skills.   To help prevent age related mental decline and reduce Homocysteine levels, eat green leafy vegetables high in folate and B Vitamins and take a Vitamin B Complex supplement.

IODINE

Most women metabolize and detoxify (both pre-menopausal and postmenopausal given Estradiol replacement) a majority of their estrogens to the end-product metabolite estriol.

Some women do not and thus have a higher risk of estrogen-related cancer. Iodine can promote the complete metabolization and detoxification into estriol.

Up to 72% of the world’s population is affected by an iodine deficiency disorder (WHO Nov. 12, 1998).

Iodine deficiency is common due to the following reasons:

• 1.      The ground is depleted in iodine.
• 2.      Diets without ocean fish or sea vegetables such as seaweed.
• 3.      Diet high in pasta and breads which contain bromide (bromide binds to the iodine receptors)
• 4.      Fluoride use (inhibits iodine binding)
• 5.      Vegan and vegetarian diets
• 6.      Sucralose (contains chlorinated table sugar)
• 7.      Medications
  • a.              Atrovent Inhaler (contains bromide)
  • b.              Ipratropium Nasal spray (contains bromide)
  • c.              Pro-Panthine (contains bromide)
  • d.              Flonase (contains fluoride)
  • e.              Flovent (contains fluoride)

In areas of the world with high iodine intake like Japan, have a low rate of breast cancer.  Estimates are that the breasts need approximately 5 mg of iodine per day in a 50 kg woman. (Abraham, G., et al., “Orthoiodosupplementation: Iodine sufficiency of the whole human body,” The Original Internist 2002; 9:30-41).

Recent studies have been reported showing a relationship of iodine deficiency during pregnancy and Attention Deficit Disorder (Abraham, G., et al., “The historical background of the iodine project,” The Original Internist 12(2):57-66, 2005).

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium deficiency is linked with cellular aging.  This deficiency affects half of the US population.  Most notable sign of deficiency is telomere shortening (DNA sequences that cap chromosomes), which has been associated with aging and cancer (www.pnas.org/cgi/contents/abstract/0712401105v1. Accessed May 1, 2008).

A new study on magnesium showed that people that are deficient are 1.48 to 1.75 times more likely to have elevated C-reactive protein (King, D., et al., “Dietary magnesium and C-reactive protein levels,” Jour Amer Coll Nutr 2005; 24(3):166-71).

PALLADIUM LIPOIC ACID COMPLEX

Palladium Lipoic Acid Complex is a supplement that is a member of the palladium Lipoic acid reductase complex family.  It contains a patented type of palladium Lipoic acid complex composed of the element palladium bonded with the antioxidant Lipoic acid.  It also contains vitamins (B1, B2, B12), minerals (molybdenum, rhodium, ruthenium), and amino acids (formyl-methionine, acetyl-cysteine).

Rhodium is a rare metal that is noted for its low electrical resistance and high corrosion resistance and is used as a catalyst for many chemical reactions.

Ruthenium is a transition metal of the platinum group that is used to harden and increase the corrosion resistance of titanium. It is also a catalyst.

This supplement takes the free radicals produced by disease and turns these damaging molecules into energy.

It literally short-circuits the bioelectric current in cancer cells, which starves them of energy and causes cell death (apoptosis) while at the same time, strengthens the immune system and protects normal healthy cells.  This action leads to dead cancer cells and healthy body cells.

Animal studies reveal that Palladium Lipoic Acid Complex reduces the area of stroke damage in the brain. Research is no ongoing in humans (Antonavich, F., et al., “Regulation of ischemic cell death by the Lipoic acid-palladium complex, in gerbils,” Exp Neurol 2004; 189(1):10-5).

DEOXYRIBOSE (D-ribose)

D-ribose is a five-carbon sugar and the building block of such things as Adenosine Tri-Phosphate (ATP) – the molecule of energy and is the “D” in DNA.  It is directly used in the body’s energy cycle, “aerobic respiration” in the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the body.  At the institute, d-Ribose is used as a medical food to overcome such things as mitochondrial disorders such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and numerous disorders associated with aging.

D-ribose was first used by innovated cardiologists who discovered its benefits in cardiac failure, heart attacks, etc.

Few physicians are aware of its benefits in everyday health.

In conclusion, I just want to add that the science is here to live to be a healthy 100 years of age and that it does matter what environment that you put your body in.  So the next time you ask the question “do I really have to take all of this stuff?” I hope you can come back to this article and remember the many benefits of your supplements.

Preventing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease

Prior to sitting down to write this article, I spent hundreds of hours preparing and researching for a seminar I once gave entitled, “Neurodegenerative Disease: Unraveling the Mystery.”  Although I won’t bore you with all of the science and details that I discovered, I will try to enlighten you into what I think is behind the increase in neurodegenerative disease- Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s.

Traveling West on Fletcher Avenue in Tampa, Florida from I-75 lies a beautiful and pristine white multi-story building with a boldly visible sign: “The Alzheimer’s Research Center.”   I thought to myself:  The buildings keep getting bigger and more expensive.  Yet, the rate of neurodegenerative diseases keeps growing and growing.

In fact, the National Institute on Aging, a subsidiary of the National Institute of Health states “Once considered a rare disorder, Alzheimer’s disease is now seen as a major public health problem that is seriously affecting millions of older Americans and their families.”

They also say that it is “not part of normal aging.”  That implies that it is part of pathologic aging.  A term that I coined several years ago when referring to the way we age in America.

Amongst the frightening statistics is the fact that scientist estimate that around 4.5 million people now have the disease, and that for every 5-years beyond age 65, your chance of getting it doubles.  And if that is not enough, by 2050, 13.2 million older Americans are expected to have Alzheimer’s disease.  That means that one of every two of us over 65 will get the disease, if no preventive treatments become available.

As the National Institute on Aging continues to “Unravel the Mystery” by informing us as to who will get it, when we will get it, and what the brain will show when you get it, they offer no help in telling us how we can prevent it.

Of course they mention the pharmaceutical drugs such as Aricept, that are out there to minimize the bad effects once you get the disease, we are reminded by the prestigious medical journal The Lancet, that Aricept doesn’t work.

So what do we do?  It’s not suppose to be  a part of normal aging, yet I’m told that at age 65 years old I can expect to be one of two people that will get it.

Naturally, as an Antiaging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine physician this notion disturbed me greatly.  To think that I must accept this as fact is absurd.  I needed to research for the reasons why these diseases are becoming so prevalent in America in the first place.  Then perhaps I could gather up ways to medically reverse the root cause.

In the Journal of Neuroinflammation I discovered that there are biomarkers that correlate closely to the increase in neurodegenerative diseases.

Simply stated, many of the markers are very sensitive predictors of most of the neurodegenerative disorders we face today.  One of the markers is Homocysteine, were to persist at a value of greater than 14, will double your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  Another, C-Reactive Protein, if greater than 3.0, will increase the risk to 500 times the norm.  These two markers are amongst those tested in the BioAge Analysis.

The good news is that there are natural ways to reverse these markers.  Through bio-identical hormone replacement, nutrition, supplementation, neurotransmitter balancing, reduction of oxidative stress, mitochondrial support, heavy metal removal, IV free radical reduction and adrenal stress control, the harmful effects of these biochemical markers of pathologic aging can be thwarted.

In summary, as scientists are eagerly researching new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease & Parkinson’s, I believe it’s best not to get it at all, and reverse the biochemical precursors that will ultimately lead to the destruction of brain cells and the advent of neurodegenerative disorders altogether.

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