Human Anatomy

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

The Anatomy and Physiology of Digestion

The digestive process begins with the senses. When we see and smell food, especially when we are hungry, our mouths begin to "water." Saliva is secreted into the mouth from salivary glands located in the cheeks and jaw. Saliva contains the first enzymes that will act upon our food.
The first step of digestion is mastication, the chewing process. The food particles must be broken down into very tiny pieces and mixed with saliva in order for the enzymes to do their job. Many digestive disturbances could be avoided with proper chewing. In our fast-paced society most people eat too fast and swallow their food without proper mastication. When chewed properly food will be in an almost liquid form when swallowed.

 From the mouth, the food moves to the stomach by way of the esophagus, a muscular tube which passes through a hole in the diaphragm to enter the abdominal area. The muscles in the esophagus squeeze the food downward with a wavelike motion, a process referred to as peristalsis. Because of this muscular action, food can be swallowed in zero gravity, or even when the body is upside down.
Whereas the pH (acidity) in the mouth and esophagus is very basic (high pH), the pH in the stomach is very acidic (low pH). This low or acid pH is the result of the secretion of hydrochloric acid (HCL), and is necessary for the action of the enzymes in the stomach that are responsible for breaking down protein. The stomach is protected from this acid by a mucus lining. The stomach acid is kept out of the esophagus by the action of the cardiac valve, a sphincter muscle which opens when food passes through, but which immediately closes to prevent the contents of the stomach from backing up into the esophagus.

Another sphincter valve, the pyloric sphincter, keeps the food in the stomach until it has been properly churned and mixed. Once the enzymes that require an acid environment have had time to do their job, the pyloric sphincter opens and the food passes into the small intestines where most of the absorption of nutrients takes place.

 The first portion of the small intestine is the duodenum. Bile, produced in the liver and stored in the gall bladder, is secreted into the duodenun by contractions of the gall bladder. The primary function of the bile is the emulsification of fats. Emulsification is the process whereby large globules of fat are broken down into smaller globules and made water soluble. One of the primary ingredients in the bile is cholesterol.

At the same time that bile is secreted by the gall bladder, pancreatic juices are secreted by the pancreas into the duodenum. The bile and pancreatic juices change the pH from acid back to basic. This higher pH is necessary for the action of the pancreatic enzymes, which continue the digestive process by breaking down carbohydrates and fats into tiny particles that can be absorbed in the intestines.


From the duodenum, the food passes through the next two parts of the small intestines, the jejunum and the ileum. The process by which food moves through the intestines (peristalsis) is made possible by involuntary wavelike contractions of the smooth muscles in the intestinal wall.
The small intestines is where the majority of absorption takes place. The nutrients are absorbed into tiny lymph vessels called lacteals, and are passed to a larger vein, the portal vein, to the liver. The liver breaks down any toxins that may be present and prepares the nutrients for release into the bloodstream. The bloodstream carries the nutrients to every cell in the body, where they are used for energy and for tissue building and repair.

From the small intestines, the remaining material, which by now is mostly nondigestable fiber, water and waste, is passed through yet another sphincter valve, the ileocecal valve, to the large intestine or colon. In the colon, any remaining water and electrolytes are absorbed, and the waste material is retained until it is time for it to be evacuated from the body through the rectum and anus. (For more on the colon see the lesson on the Intestinal System.)

The Digestive Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins which make possible or facilitate a chemical reaction under a given environmental condition. Digestive enzymes are enzymes which help break down food substances into forms that can be absorbed and assimilated by the body. Digestive enzymes are very important. Unfortunately, starting at about the age of 30, the body's secretion of enzymes begins to gradually decline. By the senior years the decline is usually significant enough to adversly effect the digestion and assimilation of food. This is one reason why digestive disturbances are common in the elderly, and why seniors often have difficulty getting the nutrients they need—a contributing factor to many health problems including osteoporosis, which is caused primarily by insufficient assimilation of proteins, calcium and other minerals. Most elderly people can benefit by taking food enzymes with their meals, along with a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.
Younger individuals commonly suffer from insufficient digestive enzymes as well. Tons of antacids are purchased each year by individuals who are suffering more from a deficiency of enzymes (and from improper chewing of their food) than from excess stomach acid. Most of these individuals would be much better served by supplementing their diets with food enzymes.
Digestive enzymes are normally secreted 1) in the mouth (as part of the saliva), 2) by the stomach, and 3) released into the small intestines from the liver and pancreas. The major enzymes are:

• Amylase, also called ptyalin, is an enzyme that aids the breakdown of starches. It is secreted in the saliva and the pancreatic juices.
• Mycozyme is an enzyme that also digests starches.
• Lipase, secreted by the pancreas, refers to any of several enzymes that increase the breakdown of fats (lipids).
• Protease, an enzyme that helps the breakdown of protein, is also secreted by the pancreas. Enzymes that breakdown protein are known as a proteolytic enzymes.
• Pepsin is an enzyme released in the stomach that also helps with the breakdown of protein.
• Pancreatin refers to pancreatic enzymes. Pancreatin is often obtained from cows or pigs and used as a dietary supplement.
• Bile, also called gall, is a bitter, yellow-green secretion of the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released during digestion when fats enter the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Bile emulsifies fats preparing them for further digestion and absorption in the small intestine.
• Cellulase is an enzyme that breaks down cellulose, the carbohydrate that is the main part of the cell walls of plants. Cellulose is nondigestible by humans because we to not produce the enzyme cellulase. Cellulase is produced by grazing animals such as cows (with the aid of the beneficial bacteria that reside in the animal's digestive tract), and is the reason why they can get nutrition from plants such as grasses. The human body does not produce cellulase, however, it is sometimes included in enzyme supplements since it can help us break down the cell walls of plants better, thereby getting the most nutrition from the herbs and other plants that we eat.

A note about terminology: You may have noticed that the names of many enzymes end with -ase, the suffix that is used to indicate an enzyme. The suffix that is used to indicate a sugar (or simple carbohydrate) is -ose. Thus cellulase breaks down cellulose. In the same way, lipase breaks down lipids (fats); pectinase breaks down pectin; protease breaks down proteins, etc.

GERD

Normally the cardiac spincter, the circular band of muscle located between the esophagus and stomach, relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach and then tightens back up to prevent the contents of the stomach from flowing back up. But when this muscle becomes weak or fails to close appropriately, the acidic juices in the stomach can flow back up or reflux into the esophagus. Sometimes the sufferer experiences regurgitation, in which the acidic stomach contents cause a sour taste in the mouth. Because the problem tends to flare-up more at night, he or she might also suffer from disrupted sleep and daytime drowsiness. Unlike the stomach, the esophagus does not have a barrier of mucus to protect it from acid. As a result, reflux can cause irritation, inflammation, and even damage to the inner lining of the esophagus. This irritation is often perceived as heartburn—an uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone. Many of us experience occasional heartburn, particularly after eating a fatty meal. But individuals who suffer from persistent heartburn are said to be suffering from a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. According to some medical experts, 7 percent of Americans have heartburn daily and 14 percent have it at least once a week. Other medical estimates indicate that GERD affects about 20 percent of the adult population in the United States, mostly affecting individuals over 40, although it can affect people of all ages including children.
The antacid industry would have us believe that the problem is too much stomach acid, but it is more likely to be caused by poor digestion due to a lack of digestive enzymes. Sometimes the culprit is actually a lack of sufficient stomach acid. Although they can provide some temporariy relief, antacids will usually only make the problem worse in the long run, because they can cause an acid rebound effect. Other factors that may contribute to GERD include overeating, or being overweight or pregnant. I mentioned earlier that many digestive disturbances could be avoided with the proper chewing of our food. This is especially true of GERD. Food selection is also an important factor. Highly refined foods, such as those made with sugar and white flour, and fried foods can cause the problem for some individuals. Alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks and even smoking are known to cause or aggravate GERD. If you suffer from acid indigestion and are in the habit of drinking a carbonated beverage with your meal or a cup of coffee afterward, stop that unhealthy habit and watch your condition improve. Eat slowly chewing your food well, don't overeat, don't eat within 3 hours before bedtime, eat fewer fried foods and refined foods, and take digestive enzymes, such as Food Enzymes or Proactazyme Plus, before every meal.
GERD may also be caused by H. pylori, the bacteria that has been associated with stomach ulcers. Individuals who suffer from GERD who are not helped significantly with digestive enzymes (and by better chewing habits) may find that Gastro Health can help their condition. (More on this product later.)

Nutritional Support for the Digestive System

Herbal Fiber

Fiber is one of the most effective dietary supplements for body detoxification. Herbal fiber supplements can help lower blood cholesterol while removing waste and toxins from the digestive system. Adding a fiber supplement to your diet can help stimulate digestion and detoxification and cleanse your body at the same time.

 

Plum Delite

Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is an aromatic that improves digestion and appetite. Medical studies have shown that ginger is a more effective treatment for motion sickness than dramamine, the most commonly used drug for the condition. Moderate use of ginger has also been medically shown to be a safe and effective remedy for morning sickness during pregnancy. (Classification: Aromatic herb. Warm energy.)

Papaya

Papaya has traditionally been used to aid indigestion, flatulence, gas, heartburn, nausea, belching, loss of appetite and bad breath. It supplements deficient conditions by providing digestive enzymes.

Ampalaya/Makabuhay/Serpentina

 

Intestinal System

The large intestine, also known as the lower bowel or colon, is anatomically divided into the cecum, the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, the sigmoid (meaning "S-shaped") colon, the rectum, and the anus.

A typical adult colon is approximately five feet long. It is not as long as the small intestine, which typically measures 20 feet in length; but the colon is about two and a half inches in diameter—or three times larger than the diameter of the small intestine—and that why it is referred to as the "large intestine."
By the time the food reaches the colon, it is in a semi-fluid state and is referred to as chyme. The chyme passes from the small intestine to the colon via the ileocecal valve. This valve opens and closes by the action of a sphincter muscle, which allows the chyme to pass from the small intestine to the colon while keeping the contents of the colon from backing up into the small intestine.

What is the Function of the Colon?

As the final link in the digestive chain, it is the colon's job to 1) absorb any remaining water and electrolytes from the chyme, 2) to continue moving the waste material along its way, and 3) to store the waste material until it is time for it to be evacuated.
The colon moves material through by involuntary wavelike contractions, made possible by smooth muscles within the colon wall, a process which is referred to as peristalsis.

What Are the Keys to Colon Health?

1. Fiber

The colon works best when it has a lot of bulky material to push through. This makes the process of peristalsis easier and is the reason fiber, or roughage, is an essential ingredient in our diet. When there is sufficient fiber, the waste material moves through faster and easier. Fiber also absorbs many harmful fats and toxins that can contribute to colon cancer and carries them out of the body. (For more on this, see article on fiber.)

2. Water

Along with fiber, water is necessary to keep the stool soft so it can move through easier. When we don't drink enough water, the mucus lining in the colon changes in consistency—becoming thicker—and fails to provide a slick surface for the movement of material.

3. Proper Diet

A proper diet should consist mostly of fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, eggs,meat and some dairy. These supply fiber and protein as well as the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients needed to keep the colon, and the rest of the body, healthy. I don't recommend that you eat a lot of grains particularly those, such as wheat, that contain gluten. If you suffer from bowel disease, such as irritable bowel, Crone's Disease, etc., you should eliminate gluten from your diet because it is an irritant to the human digestive tract. It isn't necessarily an allergy to wheat or gluten, it's that it causes a type of contact enteritis leading to malabsorption of nutrients, leaky gut, and other problems. For complete details on what I consider a proper diet see the Dietary Guidelines.

4. Exercise

Exercise stimulates the colon and increases peristalsis. A sedentary lifestyle and improper diet are common causes of constipation and other colon problems.

5. Reduce Stress

When we are under excess stress, the entire digestive system tends to shut down. As a result peristalsis slows down.

6. Friendly Bacteria

Beneficial bacteria in our colons, or flora as they are sometimes called, perform functions that are very important for maintaining our health. These bacteria break down some of the materials that we can't digest and produce some important vitamins (some of the B vitamins and vitamin K—essential for blood clotting.) We then absorb these vitamins along with the water and electrolytes into our bloodstreams. These beneficial bacteria are also necessary for keeping the potentially harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli, in check. They also prevent yeast or candida overgrowth.
The normal colon should contain about 70 percent or more of the beneficial bacteria, and about 30 percent or less of the harmful bacteria. Some health experts have estimated that most Westerners have 70 percent or more of the harmful bacteria and 30 percent or less of the beneficial bacteria—just the opposite of what is required for optimal health. The chief reasons: 1) Improper diet, and 2) drug use—especially antibiotics.

What Are Some Things That Can Go Wrong With The Colon?

Constipation is caused primarily by insufficient dietary fiber. Contributing factors are lack of exercise and not drinking enough water. Laxatives are not a good solution. They work by irritating the bowel in order to rid the colon of its contents by inducing a form of diarrhea. Laxatives are harmful to the colon and are habit-forming. A much better solution is to correct the cause of the constipation by following the keys to colon health mentioned above—particularly by insuring that we get enough fiber in the diet.
Hemorrhoids, also known as Piles, are dilated veins in the anus and rectum. They are most commonly caused by insufficient dietary fiber and by straining at the stool—a habit that is often difficult to break and which also results from insufficient dietary fiber. (Straining to urinate due to prostate enlargement can also contribute to hemorrhoids in men.)
Appendicitis refers to inflammation and infection of the appendix. This disease is a perfect example of the fact that drastic measures, like surgery, are sometimes necessary if preventative measures are not employed before symptoms occur. It is caused by low fiber intake and a lack of good bacteria. It usually occurs in childhood, which is why children should be given supplements providing beneficial bacteria—especially after having been on an antibiotic.
Colitis, also known as irritable bowel or spastic colon, is when the inner lining of the colon becomes inflamed. It is the most frequently seen gastrointestinal disease and is highly related to stress. Ulcerative colitis is a more severe form of this disease in which ulcers, or open sores, appear in the mucosa or inner lining of the colon. Even though it is caused largely by stress, a healthy bowel—including all of the factors mentioned above—can help protect us from colitis.
Diverticulosis: An outward ballooning (diverticula) in the bowel wall caused by increased internal pressure and weakening of the bowel wall—both of which are caused by chronic constipation which in turn is caused by a lifetime of insufficient dietary fiber and poor bowel hygiene. If a diverticula becomes inflamed it is call diverticulitis.
Parasites can occur in many body systems, including the brain, but it is in the intestinal tract where they are most commonly found. This problem is far more common than most people will believe. Many of the people who are reading these words are harboring parasites in their bodies without knowing it. That is why I recommend as part of your regular colon cleansing (once in the Spring and again in the Fall) that you include a parasite cleanse in at least one of these cleanses as a preventative measure using a fantastic herbal product called Para-Cleanse I recently had a patient who took my advice and was surprised at the number of worms she saw in her stool as her body was eliminating parasites while she was taking this product. She saw this continue through the end of the 10-day cleanse and asked me what to do. I told her to repeat the cleanse with another Para-Cleanse which she did. By the end of the second cleanse she was no longer seeing parasites in her stool.
Prolapsed Colon (Synonym: Ptosis of the colon) a common condition that occurs when the colon "falls" from its normal position to a lower position. Usually it is not just the colon that is involved. All of the abdominal organs can "sag" in this way. This is generally caused by being out of shape, overweight, and is often due in large part to a general deterioration of colon health as a result of poor colon hygiene. The real problem occurs when the abdominal organs, including the colon, exert pressure on the prostate in men and the uterus and ovaries in women. Women may develop a "tilted" uterus. Exercises on a slant board (where the feet are above the head) are very helpful for this problem along with a better diet. Refer to the book by Dr. Jensen (see recommended reading) for more details on these exercises.
Dilated Blood Vessels such as varicose veins and spider nevi are often caused—like hemorrhoids—by increased internal pressure resulting from straining at the stool because of insufficient dietary fiber.
Skin Problems are often the result of poor colon hygiene. Toxins are sometimes eliminated through the sweat pores of the skin. When excess toxins are being absorbed by the colon, the other elimination systems—such as the kidneys and lungs—are overloaded. Unsightly blemishes, even acne, on the skin can be the result.
Halitosis, or "bad breath," can result from colon problems in the same way. In this case the lungs are eliminating toxins that are being absorbed by the colon.
Heart Disease and Cancer, though not colon problems, are related to problems of the colon because they too can result from a low fiber diet. A recent medical study concluded that "If we could increase the per capita consumption of fiber by 13 grams, the risk of colorectal cancer in the U.S. would decrease by 31%." That translates to two lives saved every hour! Other forms of cancer, including breast cancer, have also been shown to be related to a low intake of dietary fiber.

 

Here's What Some of the Experts Say About Colon Health:

The celebrated Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, formerly of the Battle Creek Sanitarium, maintained that 90 percent of the diseases of civilization are due to improper functioning of the colon.
Dr. Bernard Jensen, a proponent of natural health and author of Dr. Jensen's Guide to Better Bowel Care (see recommended reading) said:
"In the 50 years I've spent helping people to overcome illness, disability and disease, it has become crystal clear that poor bowel management lies at the root of most people's health problems." ... "To try to take care of any symptom in the body without a good elimination system is futile."
Many health experts believe that with all the overcooked and over-processed foods and with all the fats that we eat in the industrialized nations, it is impossible for us to get enough fiber for optimal colon functioning without daily fiber supplementation.
Consider this medical fact: The three most common causes of death in the United States are heart disease, cancer, and adult-onset diabetes (in that order). Medical research has confirmed that insufficient dietary fiber is a major cause of all three diseases!

Conclusion:

Undigested food in liquid form flows from the small intestine into the large intestine or colon. There, most of the water content and mineral salts are absorbed back into the body. The semisolid waste remaining is still 60-70 percent water and 10-30 percent bacteria, with the rest being indigestible cellulose material, dead cells, and other waste materials.
The muscular walls of the colon contract to move waste through it. This takes anywhere from 12-24 hours or longer, depending greatly on the amount of roughage (fiber) present.
People with diets high in refined foods (such as sugar and white flour) and low-fiber foods (such as meat, eggs and dairy products) are especially susceptible to intestinal problems. Colonic and rectal disorders are much more common in America than in Africa, where the diet contains seven times more fiber than the average Western diet.
The colon works best when moderately full of bulky material. Dietary fiber fills this need. Although fiber provides no nutrients to the body, it does help promote good health because it is able to remove certain toxic materials along with many times its weight in water, which is needed to help maintain bowel regularity.
Another factor in colon health is maintaining a good supply of beneficial bacteria such as lactobacillus acidophilus. While it's true that some bacteria are harmful, not all bacteria are bad and most are very beneficial.
If you have five or more of the following indications, you may want to consider nutritional aid to the intestinal system:

Body odor and/or bad breath Monthly female concerns Recent or frequent use of antibiotics Skin/complexion problems Frequent consumption of pasteurized dairy Feeling low, uninterested, or depressed Lack of a balanced diet Slow recovery from illnes		Less than 2 bowel movements per day High-fat diet Low-fiber diet Food/chemical sensitivities Recurrent yeast/fungal infections Easily irritated or angered Don't exercise regularly Respiratory, sinus or allergy problems

Lifestyle Suggestions:

• Eat high fiber fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
• Drink 12-16 cups of purified water daily.
• Avoid foods made with white flour and/or sugar.
• Eat yogurt and other natural fermented foods.
• Avoid frequent use of stimulant laxatives.
• Engage in moderate regular exercise such as walking or bicycling.
• Learn to handle stress. If stress is a problem, try to reduce the stressors in your life, consider learning relaxation techniques, and/or take optrimax plum delite.
• Take a daily fiber supplement 
• Avoid antibiotics and other drugs that harm the body's friendly flora. Periodically supplement your diet with Probiotics - especially important after an antibiotic is taken.
• Periodically Cleanse the Colon: If you eat meat and/or dairy products, I recommend a colon cleanse four times a year (using the season changes as reminders.) If you eat no meat or dairy products then cleanse the colon twice a year (in the Spring and again in the Fall.) Usually the best cleanse to use is Optrimax Plum Delite However, I recommend that once a year you should cleanse with a parasite cleanse (papaya seeds)

 

The Circulatory System—Part I
Anatomy and Physiology

The circulatory system is responsible for the transport of water and dissolved materials throughout the body, including oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and waste. The circulatory system transports oxygen from the lungs and nutrients from the digestive tract to every cell in the body, allowing for the continuation of cell metabolism. The circulatory system also transports the waste products of cell metabolism to the lungs and kidneys where they can be expelled from the body. Without this important function toxic substances would quickly build up in the body.

Anatomy of the Circulatory System

The human circulatory system is organized into two major circulations. Each has its own pump with both pumps being incorporated into a single organ—the heart. The two sides of the human heart are separated by partitions, the interatrial septum and the interventricular septum. Both septa are complete so that the two sides are anatomically and functionally separate pumping units. The right side of the heart pumps blood through the pulmonary circulation (the lungs) while the left side of the heart pumps blood through the systemic circulation (the body).
The human heart is a specialized, four-chambered muscle that maintains the blood flow in the circulatory system. It lies immediately behind the sternum, or breastbone, and between the lungs. The apex, or bottom of the heart, is tilted to the left side. At rest, the heart pumps about 59 cc (2 oz) of blood per beat and 5 l (5 qt) per minute. During exercise it pumps 120-220 cc (4-7.3 oz) of blood per beat and 20-30 l (21-32 qt) per minute. The adult human heart is about the size of a fist and weighs about 250-350 gm (9 oz).
The human heart begins beating early in fetal life and continues regular beating throughout the life span of the individual. If the heart stops beating for more than 3 or 4 minutes permanent brain damage may occur. Blood flow to the heart muscle itself also depends on the continued beating of the heart and if this flow is stopped for more than a few minutes, as in a heart attack, the heart muscle may be damaged to such a great extent that it may be irreversibly stopped.
The heart is made up of two muscle masses. One of these forms the two atria (the upper chambers) of the heart, and the other forms the two ventricles (the lower chambers). Both atria contract or relax at the same time, as do both ventricles.
An electrical impulse called an action potential is generated at regular intervals in a specialized region of the right atrium called the sinoauricular (or sinoatrial, or SA) node. Since the two atria form a single muscular unit, the action potential will spread over the atria. A fraction of a second later, having been triggered by the action potential, the atrial muscle contracts.
The ventricles form a single muscle mass separate from the atria. When the atrial action potential reaches the juncture of the atria and the ventricles, the atrioventricular or AV node (another specialized region for conduction) conducts the impulse. After a slight delay, the impulse is passed by way of yet another bundle of muscle fibers (the Bundle of His and the Purkinje system.) Contraction of the ventricle quickly follows the onset of its action potential. From this pattern it can be seen that both atria will contract simultaneously and that both ventricles will contract simultaneously, with a brief delay between the contraction of the two parts of the heart.
The electrical stimulus that leads to contraction of the heart muscle thus originates in the heart itself, in the sinoatrial node (SA node), which is also known as the heart's pacemaker. This node, which lies just in front of the opening of the superior vena cava, measures no more than a few millimeters. It consists of heart cells that emit regular impulses. Because of this spontaneous discharge of the sinoatrial node, the heart muscle is automated. A completely isolated heart can contract on its own as long as its metabolic processes remain intact.
The rate at which the cells of the SA node discharge is externally influenced through the autonomic nervous system, which sends nerve branches to the heart. Through their stimulatory and inhibitory influences they determine the resultant heart rate. In adults at rest this is between 60 and 74 beats a minute. In infants and young children it may be between 100 and 120 beats a minute. Tension, exertion, or fever may cause the rate of the heart to vary between 55 and 200 beats a minute.

The Heart Sounds

The closure of the heart valves and the contraction of the heart muscle produce sounds that can be heard through the thoracic wall by the unaided ear, although they can be heard better when amplified by a stethoscope. The sounds of the heart may be represented as lubb-dubb-pause-lubb-dubb-pause. The lubb sound indicates the closing of the valves between the atria and ventricles and the contracting ventricles; the dubb sound indicates the closing of the semilunar valves. In addition, there may also be cardiac murmurs, especially when the valves are abnormal. Some heart murmurs, however, may also occur in healthy persons, mainly during rapid or pronounced cardiac action. The study of heart sounds and murmurs furnishes valuable information to physicians regarding the condition of the heart muscle and valves.

Coronary Circulation

The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscle. These vessels originate from the aorta immediately after the aortic valve and branch out through the heart muscle. The coronary veins transport the deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle to the right atrium. The heart's energy supply is almost completely dependent on these coronary vessels. When the coronary vessels become blocked, as in arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, blood flow to the cardiac muscle is compromised. This is when the common "bypass surgery" is performed where the coronary arteries are "bypassed" by replacing them with, for example, a vein from the leg. A "double bypass" is when two coronary arteries are bypassed. A "triple bypass" is when three are bypassed, etc.

The Heartbeat

The heart muscle pumps the blood through the body by means of rhythmical contractions (systole) and relaxations or dilations (diastole). The heart's left and right halves work almost synchronously. When the ventricles contract (systole), the valves between the atria and the ventricles close as the result of increasing pressure, and the valves to the pulmonary artery and the aorta open. When the ventricles become flaccid during diastole, and the pressure decreases, the reverse process takes place.

The Pulmonary Circulation

From the right atrium the blood passes to the right ventricle through the tricuspid valve, which consists of three flaps (or cusps) of tissue. The tricuspid valve remains open during diastole, or ventricular filling. When the ventricle contracts, the valve closes, sealing the opening and preventing backflow into the right atrium. Five cords attached to small muscles, called papillary muscles, on the ventricles' inner surface prevent the valves' flaps from being forced backward.
From the right ventricle blood is pumped through the pulmonary or semilunar valve, which has three half-moon-shaped flaps, into the pulmonary artery. This valve prevents backflow from the artery into the right ventricle. From the pulmonary artery blood is pumped to the lungs where it releases carbon dioxide and picks up oxygen.

The Systemic Circulation

From the lungs, the blood is returned to the heart through pulmonary veins, two from each lung. From the pulmonary veins the blood enters the left atrium and then passes through the mitral valve to the left ventricle. As the ventricles contract, the mitral valve prevents backflow of blood into the left atrium, and blood is driven through the aortic valve into the aorta, the major artery that supplies blood to the entire body. The aortic valve, like the pulmonary valve, has a semilunar shape.
The aorta has many branches, which carry the blood to various parts of the body. Each of these branches in turn has branches, and these branches divide, and so on until there are literally millions of small blood vessels. The smallest of these on the arterial side of the circulation are called arterioles. They contain a great deal of smooth muscle, and because of their ability to constrict or dilate, they play a major role in regulating blood flow through the tissues.

 

The Lymphatic System

An often overlooked part of the circulatory system is the lymphatic system. As blood passes through the capillaries, some of the fluid diffuses into the surrounding tissues. One function of the lymphatic system is to collect and recycle this fluid (called lymph). Lymph passes from capillaries to lymph vessels and flows through lymph nodes that are located along the course of these vessels. Cells of the lymph nodes phagocytize, or ingest, impurities such as bacteria, old red blood cells, and toxic and cellular waste. Finally, lymph flows into the thoracic duct, a large vessel that runs parallel to the spinal column, or into the right lymphatic duct, both of which transport the lymph back into veins of the shoulder areas where is mixes with blood and is returned to the heart. All lymph vessels contain one-way valves, like the veins, to prevent backflow.
The tissues of the lymphatic system include the spleen. The spleen serves as a reservoir for blood, releasing additional blood into the circulatory system as needed. It is also involved with destruction of old cells and other substances by phagocytosis. The lymphatic system is also responsible for collecting nutrients that the digestive system has extracted from our foods, and is a very important part of the immune system. We will cover the lymphatic system in detail in the lesson on the immune system.

The Blood

The blood transports life-supporting food and oxygen to every cell of the body and removes their waste products. It also helps to maintain body temperature, transports hormones, and fights infections. The brain cells in particular are very dependent on a constant supply of oxygen. If the circulation to the brain is stopped, death shortly follows.
Blood has two main constituents. The cells, or corpuscles, comprise about 45 percent, and the liquid portion, or plasma, in which the cells are suspended comprises 55 percent. The blood cells comprise three main types: red blood cells, or erythrocytes; white blood cells, or leukocytes, which in turn are of many different types; and platelets, or thrombocytes. Each type of cell has its own individual functions in the body. The plasma is a complex colorless solution, about 90 percent water, that carries different ions and molecules including proteins, enzymes, hormones, nutrients, waste materials such as urea, and fibrinogen, the protein that aids in clotting.

White Blood Cells

The leukocytes, or white blood cells, are of three types; granulocytes, lymphocytes, and monocytes. All are involved in defending the body against foreign organisms.
There are three types of granulocytes: neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, with neutrophils the most abundant. Neutrophils seek out bacteria and phagocytize, or engulf, them.
The lymphocytes' chief function is to migrate into the connective tissue and build antibodies against bacteria and viruses. Leukocytes are almost colorless, considerably larger than red cells, have a nucleus, and are much less numerous; only one or two exist for every 1,000 red cells. The number increases in the presence of infection.
Monocytes, representing only 4 to 8 percent of white cells, attack organisms not destroyed by granulocytes and leukocytes.
The granulocytes, accounting for about 70 percent of all white blood cells, are formed in the bone marrow. The lymphocytes on the other hand are produced primarily by the lymphoid tissues of the body—the spleen and lymph nodes. They are usually smaller than the granulocytes. Monocytes are believed to originate from lymphocytes. Just as the oxygen-carrying function of red cells is necessary for our survival, so are normal numbers of leukocytes, which protect us against infection.

Red Blood Cells

The red blood cells are tiny, round, biconcave disks, averaging about 7.5 microns (0.003 in) in diameter. A normal-sized man has about 5 l (5.3 qt) of blood in his body, containing more than 25 trillion red cells. Because the normal life span of red cells in the circulation is only about 120 days, more than 200 billion cells are normally destroyed each day by the spleen and must be replaced. Red blood cells, as well as most white cells and platelets, are made by the bone marrow.
The main function of the red blood cells is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and to transport carbon dioxide, one of the chief waste products, it to the lungs for release from the body.
The substance in the red blood cells that is largely responsible for their ability to carry oxygen and carbon dioxide is hemoglobin, the material that gives the cells their red color. It is a protein complex comprising many linked amino acids, and occupies almost the entire volume of a red blood cell. Essential to its structure and function is the mineral iron.

Platelets

Platelets, or thrombocytes, are much smaller than the red blood cells. They are round or biconcave disks and are normally about 30 to 40 times more numerous than the white blood cells. The platelets' primary function is to stop bleeding. When tissue is damaged, the platelets aggregate in clumps to obstruct blood flow.

Plasma

The plasma is more than 90 percent water and contains a large number of substances, many essential to life. Its major solute is a mixture of proteins. The most abundant plasma protein is albumin. The globulins are even larger protein molecules than albumin and are of many chemical structures and functions. The antibodies, produced by lymphocytes, are globulins and are carried throughout the body, where many of them fight bacteria and viruses.
An important function of plasma is to transport nutrients to the tissues. Glucose, for example, absorbed from the intestines, constitutes a major source of body energy. Some of the plasma proteins and fats, or lipids, are also used by the tissues for cell growth and energy. Minerals essential to body function, although present only in trace amounts, are other important elements of the plasma. The calcium ion, for example, is essential to the building of bone, as is phosphorus. Calcium is also essential to the clotting of blood. Copper is another necessary component of the plasma.

Diseases of the Blood

Anemia

Anemia is a deficiency of hemoglobin in the blood. It can be caused by blood loss, abnormal destruction of the red cells, and inadequate red cell formation by the bone marrow.
Anemia caused by acute or chronic blood loss, or abnormal bleeding, results from the inability of the bone marrow to make new cells as fast as they are needed. In acute or massive bleeding, the red blood cells and their hemoglobin are normal but are not abundant. Chronic slow bleeding leads to a deficiency in iron stores needed for hemoglobin. This results in smaller red blood cells that are paler than normal.
Abnormal destruction of red cells (the hemolytic anemias) leads to a shorter than normal red cell survival. For example, in the hereditary disease Sickle-cell Anemia the hemoglobin is built erroneously. Such cells are more fragile and break more readily in circulation.
Anemias caused by bone-marrow failure include aplastic anemia, in which the bone marrow lacks adequate numbers of some or all types of blood cells. Another anemia caused by failure of production of red cells is pernicious anemia. In this disease, the person's stomach fails to produce "intrinsic factor," which is necessary for the normal absorption of vitamin B-12 from the intestines. Because vitamin B-12 is essential for normal bone marrow function, red cells are not formed normally. Sublingual vitamin B-12 supplements are available, from which the vitamin is absorbed through the blood vessels under the tongue, thus avoiding the potential problems associated with intestinal absorption.

Leukemia

A great increase in abnormal leukocytes may occur for unknown reasons, resulting in the diseases known as the leukemias. These range in severity from the chronic lymphocytic leukemia, in which a person may live for many years, to devastating acute leukemia, often causing death within months.

Thromboembolic Disease

A more common disease is abnormal clotting in the blood vessels, known as thromboembolic disease. This group of disorders, caused by a relatively inactive lifestyle, or by a person's confinement to bed, is one of the most common causes of death in middle-aged and elderly persons.

Heart Diseases

Heart attacks are the number-one cause of natural death in the United States. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of natural death worldwide. Cardiovascular diseases include a wide range of disorders that affect the heart and the blood vessels and are the product of many factors, which range in nature from hereditary to nutritional and environmental. Because capillaries are the site where oxygen and nutrients enter body cells and waste products are removed by the bloodstream, any peripheral vascular disease will affect the function of the tissues supplied by the capillaries. Cardiovascular diseases can therefore cause disease in all other tissues and organs of the body.

Artery Diseases

The single major cause of artery disease is the thickening and hardening of arterial walls by deposits of fatty materials, known as arteriosclerosis. In major vessels such as the aorta, this process is called atherosclerosis. The deposits of fatty materials is the response of the body to patch an area where damage has occurred. The damage is caused by inflammation of the inner wall of the artery and the turbulence of the blood.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a disorder of large and medium-sized arteries, such as the large coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle with oxygen. The disorder is characterized by a buildup of fatty deposits, called plaques, on the inner walls of arteries. These yellowish plaques are caused by chronic inflammation of the inner arterial wall, and consist of materials such as cholesterol, lipids, and cellular debris. They lead to a loss of elasticity in the artery and to ischemia, or a narrowing of the blood's passageway. The resulting decrease in smooth blood flow may ultimately deprive a vital organ, such as the heart or brain, of its blood supply. Loss of circulation to a limb may also occur.
The presence of cholesterol in the plaques led scientists to incorrectly assume that high levels of cholesterol in the blood were responsible. But the true cause is inflammation of the arterial walls which weakens the walls leaving them susceptible to damage from the turbulence of blood. The cholesterol plaques are simply the body's attempt to patch or mend the damage. What causes the inflammation? There are several factors that can increase inflammation in the body. An important one is high levels of insulin in the bloodstream which is the body's response to high levels of sugar in the bloodstream. This is why diabetics are more prone to heart disease and why people who consume high amounts of sugar are more susceptible..
Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of coronary heart disease, including heart attacks. It is also a major cause of stroke. Half the mortality in Western societies results from heart and blood-vessel diseases, of which atherosclerosis, the most common lethal disease, is the major cause.
The causes of atherosclerosis are not yet fully understood by the medical profession, but certain characteristics called risk factors are recognized in persons prone to atherosclerosis. These include high blood sugar, insulin resistance and high blood pressure or hypertension (increases turbulance in the arteries.) Resistance to these factors appears to diminish with age, especially when accompanied by unhealthy eating habits, obesity and cigarette smoking. Atherosclerosis may be manifested fairly rapidly in diseases such as diabetes.
Medical evidence indicates that a low fiber diet high in trans fats, produced in food processing, tends to promote atherosclerosis; while a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, and avoidance of smoking and hypertension can delay atherosclerosis, even in persons prone to the disease. Saturated fats are not the problem they were once thought to be. Polyunsaturated fats or oils are the dangerous fats because they are converted into trans fats in cooking or processing.
Atherosclerosis may result in occlusion or blockage of an artery. In many cases the cause of the blockage is a clot formation in a narrowed atherosclerotic area. In the coronary arteries this is the major cause of myocardial infarctions, or heart attacks. In peripheral arteries, such as those of the legs, severe narrowing can result in gangrene and can lead to surgical amputation. Since the condition appears to be accelerated in patients with diabetes mellitus, gangrene of the lower extremity is a significant danger for these persons.
Bypass surgery, the surgical replacement of the narrowed segment of artery with a vein taken from elsewhere in the body, is a common medical treatment for arterial narrowing in coronary arteries. However, this procedure has been proven to be both dangerous and mostly ineffective. Statistically, patients who receive bypass surgery do not live any longer than those who choose not to receive the surgery. Additionally, the new artery has a much greater chance of developing atherosclerosis.
Another medical therapy, angioplasty, is the dilation of the narrowed segment with a tiny balloon delivered by catheter. It has been demonstrated that this procedure also has very limited, if any, benefit. It is also a dangerous procedure since there is a significant risk of death by heart attack while the procedure is being done.

Aneurysms

Other major diseases of the aorta include true aneurysms and so-called dissecting aneurysms. The former are balloon-like swellings that result from weakening of the aorta wall, most commonly because of atherosclerosis. Dissecting aneurysms are thought to be the result of an inherited degeneration of the middle layer of the aorta wall, leading to a separation (a dissection) of the layers by blood, under high pressure, pouring through a tear in the inner layer. A danger in any aneurysm is rupture and sudden death. Additionally, true aneurysms may cause severe symptoms by exerting pressure on nearby structures.

Vein Diseases

The most important peripheral vascular disease of the veins is thrombophlebitis or phlebitis. This disorder involves the formation of a blood clot (or clots) in large veins, usually in the leg or pelvis. Any or all of three major factors can cause such clots: slowing of the bloodstream (or even stoppage for a short period of time), increase of coagulability of the blood, and injury to the lining of the vein. The disorder can cause local inflammation, redness, and swelling, but it may also be entirely free of local symptoms. In either case, but particularly in the latter one, the clot may break off and travel to the right side of the heart. From there it is pumped to the lung where it is trapped as the pulmonary artery branches and narrows, blocking the blood supply to a portion of the lung, a process called pulmonary infarction. The immediate shock may be fatal and is one of the major causes of sudden death in postoperative hospitalized patients. To prevent such an occurrence postoperative patients are constantly monitored and encouraged to walk as soon as possible.
A distressing but usually minor disorder of the veins, known as varicose veins, results from a failure of valves in the veins to keep blood flowing back toward the heart. In some cases, however, the condition can lead to varicose ulcers or the inflammation of vein walls, with resulting development of clots and of thrombophlebitis.

Hypertension

High blood pressure is a common disorder that affects up to 20 percent of the adult population in the United States. By far the most common type is essential hypertension, the causes of which are medically unknown. The remaining cases of high blood pressure are secondary to at least 30 different conditions. High blood pressure is often secondary to hardening of the arteries. As the arteries lose their elasticity, the heart has to beat harder to force the blood through. The result is high blood pressure. Untreated hypertension can cause severe kidney damage, precipitate a cerebral hemorrhage (stroke), or result in heart failure.

Stroke

Stroke, also known as CerebroVascular Accident (CVA), involves damage to the brain because of impaired blood supply and causes a sudden malfunction of the brain. In the United States, stroke is the third-ranking cause of death after heart disease and cancer, and about one-fourth of the neurologic patients in nursing homes are stroke victims.
Stroke victims are generally elderly people with degeneration of blood vessels, but children and young adults also can have a stroke. Some stroke risk factors include increasing age, gender (more men have strokes), diabetes mellitus, prior stroke, and family history of stroke, hypertension, heart disease, cigarette smoking, and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or little strokes. Women using oral contraceptives also tend to have more strokes. According to drugnews.net dual hormonal oral contraceptives can be even more dangerous. For example, yaz birth control side effects can be much riskier than lower dose hormonal contraceptives.

The Circulatory System Part II
Can Heart Disease Be Prevented or Reversed?

Consider these important facts:

• Heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S. for both men and women.
• One of every four Americans suffers from some form of heart disease.
• Almost half of the 1.5 million heart attack victims in the U.S. each year are under age 65.
• The most common symptom of a heart attack is sudden death.

The above facts are reported for the U.S., but Canada and other countries report statistics that are just as grim. Like other vital parts of the human body, the circulatory system was designed to last over 100 years. Unfortunately, owner negligence usually contributes heavily to its early breakdown. Over the millennia humans have subsisted largely on a plant-based diet, to which our cells and organs are adapted. Today, many people in Western countries obtain up to half their calories from animal products. Add to this the fact that, due to modern conveniences, too many of us don't get enough of the right kinds of exercises, and you have a recipe for disaster.
Most circulatory problems are caused by a blockage in an artery caused by atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. When this happens the organs and tissues that are supplied by the artery are deprived of vital nourishment. When it happens to the coronary arteries—the arteries that feed the heart muscle—the heart becomes starved and damaged and may even die.
Although heredity has some influence over who will and who will not get heart disease, it is greatly outweighed by the factors that we have control over—our lifestyle choices.

What Can We Do to Prevent or Reverse Heart Disease?

It is ironic that the disease that is responsible for the most American deaths is also one of the most preventable! We can greatly increase our chances of avoiding cardiovascular disease, and even reverse much of the damage already done, by making the right lifestyle choices—particularly regarding exercise, stress management, smoking, weight management, blood pressure management, and diet—including nutritional supplementation.

Exercise

The American Heart Association recommends at least 20 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week. Aerobic exercise is exercise that makes your heart beat faster. Good examples are brisk walking, jogging, and bicycling. If you are over 40 and out of shape, or if you have a history of heart problems, start slowly with moderate walking, or ask your health care provider to recommend an exercise program especially for you.

Stress Management

Research has shown that people with "type A" personalities are more prone to heart problems, particularly the kind that can cause sudden death. "Type A" personalities are people who have a high need for accomplishment and who drive themselves relentlessly. If you feel that you fit into this category, you might consider learning relaxation techniques such as meditation, hatha yoga or Tai Chi. Remember also that regular exercise has even greater benefits for you, since exercise helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation. Nutritional supplementation may also help. Low levels of magnesium have been associated with a decreased ability to handle stress. Also, during times of stress the body needs more of the B vitamins. Herbs such as valerian root, hops, kava kava, and passion flowers help promote relaxation and better sleep. I have known more than one individual who was able to naturally control his hypertension with the prudent use of herbs and nutrition, particularly with the use of a good stress vitamin.

Smoking

Heart disease rates for smokers are 70 percent higher than for non- smokers. The only way to eliminate or reduce this risk factor is to never smoke, or to quit smoking if you do. The good news is that smokers who quit can reduce their risk of heart disease by about one-half. Eventually their risk will be about that of non-smokers. Recent research indicates that this effect begins within months or even days of quitting. So as long as you are still breathing, it is never too late to quit! The juicing method may help you quit.

Weight Management

Another factor important in preventing cardiovascular disease is to maintain your ideal weight. Weight Management is covered in another lesson so I will not go into detail here.

Blood Pressure Management

The only way to know for sure whether you have high blood pressure is to have it checked, because many individuals have high blood pressure without knowing it. The American Heart Association recommends that, unless you have a known cardiovascular problem, it is sufficient to have your blood pressure checked every two to three years. Everyone experiences periodic fluctuations to their blood pressure depending on activity level, stress, etc. But people with sustained uncontrolled high blood pressure run a much greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Ironically, some people only suffer from high blood pressure when they have it checked by a doctor or nurse. This is referred to as "white coat hypertension" and has resulted in many unnecessary prescriptions for dangerous blood pressure drugs. This is also why prudent doctors will not prescribe a drug for high blood pressure unless the patient has shown consistent high blood pressure over a period of time, or only after conservative measures such as stress management have failed. As a precaution against falling victim to "white coat hypertension," it is a good idea to check your own blood pressure under various conditions, including at home, especially if you are contemplating drug treatment.
Most people can manage their blood pressure adequately with lifestyle choices. People with a tendency toward high blood pressure would do well to eliminate caffeine from their diet. For a small percentage of people there is a correlation between excessive sodium intake and high blood pressure, but for most people this is not as important as was once thought. Many people can adequately manage their blood pressure by following the principles mentioned in this lesson: Quit smoking if you are a smoker. Get enough of the right kind of exercise. Learn stress management techniques if you are a Type A personality. Try to maintain a healthy weight. Eat the right kinds of foods. Avoid the wrong kinds of foods, (more on nutrition below.) And make sure that you get enough of the right nutrients in your diet through supplementation. The herbal combination Blood Pressurex may help you keep your blood pressure levels in the normal range.

Heart Drugs

The prescription drugs that are routinely prescribed for the most common heart problems, particularly those prescribed for high cholesterol and high blood pressure, are very dangerous, present a lot of insidious side effects, (often including the long-term result of making the heart disease worse), and in general should be avoided. The reason they are so popular is because the drug companies reap huge profits from the sale of these drugs and so they spend millions of dollars each year promoting them to both doctors and the general public. There are many natural and safer alternatives, but your doctor is not likely to tell you about them because natural treatments do not produce billions of dollars in profits like prescription drugs. It will therefore be up to you to decide if you want to be a part of the drug industry's agenda, whose primary purpose is to make huge profits and pay large dividends to their stock holders, or if you want to establish your own agenda, with your welfare as its top priority. A word of warning is in order however: Do not discontinue the use of any prescription drug without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. If your doctor will not cooperate with you, get another doctor!

Nutrition

There is clear scientific evidence that Americans should be cutting back on saturated fats and animal products and eating more fiber. There is an indisputable correlation between a high fat, low fiber diet—the typical American diet—and heart disease. Is there any wonder why heart disease is the number one killer of Americans? Not only should we be cutting back on animal products, we should be eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. This will reduce our fat intake, increase our fiber intake, and provide us with many nutrients—including antioxidants—that help protect us from cardiovascular disease. Additionally, the American habit of eating processed foods, particularly products containing sugar and enriched flour, is a leading cause of high cholesterol and heart disease.

Dietary Supplementation for the Circulatory System

While diet modification is a very helpful and necessary step, due to modern food processing procedures, most of us will still not get enough fiber for optimal health unless we supplement.  Dietary fiber is such an important part of health management that I have devoted an entire article to the subject. Fiber is also discussed in the lesson on the Intestinal System. I will therefore not go into further detail here. In the remainder of this section we will take a closer look at nutritional supplements that can play an important part in the battle against heart disease.

Nutritional Supplementation

Antioxidants

Antioxidant vitamins and minerals are essential for circulatory health. Medical studies have shown in particular that vitamins C and E and the trace mineral selenium help protect the blood vessels and heart muscle from the damaging effects of atherosclerosis. Even in advanced cases of heart disease and arterial plaquing, the benefits of these antioxidants have in some cases proven to be more effective than heart medications. Research suggests that 1,000 mg of vitamin C, and 800 IU of vitamin E daily are necessary to have a significantly positive effect on the arteries and the heart.
As you probably know, Vitamin E, has repeatedly been in the news about heart disease. Many medical studies, including an important paper published in the June 1995 Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), have demonstrated the importance of this antioxidant vitamin in the prevention of heart disease. In the JAMA study, men with a previous history of coronary heart bypass surgery who were given more than 100 IU of vitamin E a day had significantly less coronary artery progression than those who did not receive vitamin E. Another recent study of 130,000 nurses showed that intakes of greater than 100 IU per day reduced heart attacks by 46% in women and 26% in men. The reason for the lower figure in men was probably due the low dose used in this study.
Vitamin E has been shown to be vitally important in the prevention of many other health problems in both men and women, including prostate cancer in men. I recommend that everyone supplement their diets with this important antioxidant vitamin. My recommendation for vitamin E is 400 IU a day (800 IU for those who have heart disease or are at risk for heart disease.) Avoid dl-alpha tocopherol or synthetic Vitamin E. It is important to use d-alpha tocopherol, or natural source vitamin E, which is the most biologically active form. Also, remember that natural vitamin E is a complex, like vitamin B, and works much better if taken with the other natural tocopherols. For that reason I recommend Vitamin E , which includes the entire vitamin E complex along with the important trace mineral selenium. Vitamin E and selenium are synergistic, meaning that the Vitamin E will be of more benefit when it is taken with selenium. Selenium has also been proven to be essential for cardiovascular health. (More on selenium in the next section below.)
(Note: Recently a new medical study was reported prominently in the news media which attempted to discredit the virtues of vitamin E, even going so far as to claim that supplementation with the vitamin could be dangerous to your health. A closer look at this study revealed that it was seriously flawed and should be ignored. I believe that the drug interests were behind this new study in the first place and that it was nothing more than an attempt to discredit a beneficial, and popular, natural remedy, all because it was seen as a threat to lucretive heart drug profits. Over the years I have seen this happen numerous times with many natural drug-free treatments. There are many more studies that prove the effectiveness and safety of vitamin E so don't be dissuaded by this new "finding." The media is always too eager to be a part of the drug industry's agenda because it creates the sensation they need to increase their ratings and sell more advertising (much of which is to the drug companies.) This should always be kept in mind when reading or hearing any media report, particularly when it involves bad news about a very popular natural remedy; because it is when a natural remedy becomes very popular and widely used that it is perceived as a threat to the drug industry's profits. The drug industry is a very powerful and well-funded special interest and your health is not their top priority.)

Selenium

It is now well established that the trace mineral selenium is essential for optimal health. It has been shown to help protect against coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease. The problem is that our soils, in many parts of the country, have been depleted of many important trace minerals making it impossible for us to get optimal amounts without supplementation. Choose chelated selenium because it is absorbed much better than the non-chelated form. In addition to its promise in the prevention of heart disease, selenium has proven to have an inhibitory effect on all of the hypothesized aging mechanisms. Animals who have had their diets supplemented with selenium live 50% longer. Selenium has also been proven to help prevent arthritis, emphysema, and cancer. It is no coincidence that the states in the U.S. with the highest incidence of breast cancer are also the states with the lowest levels of selenium in the soil.

Other Minerals

In addition to selenium, there are at least six other minerals that are essential in the battle against heart disease: calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, chromium and copper. Magnesium, in particular, is a key mineral for the heart. It helps reduce heart attack, irregular heart beats and heart spasms. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc have all been shown to help control high blood pressure. And copper is important for the structural integrity of the walls of the blood vessels. Deficiencies of copper have been linked to weaknesses in the vascular walls leading to aneurysm and stroke.

Coenzyme Q-10

Coenzyme Q10 (or Co Q10) is a "vitamin-like" enzyme and a strong antioxidant which is necessary for the cells to produce energy. It is present in very small amounts in some foods, such as seafoods, and is produced by all cells of the body. Studies have shown that most heart patients are deficient in coQ-10 and that supplementation can sometimes dramatically relieve heart disease symptoms. CoQ10 supplementation has been shown to help normalize blood pressure and to strengthen and protect the heart against cardiovascular disorders and heart disease. It has been found to calm arrhythmia and improve congestive heart failure and angina. CoQ-10 also acts as a powerful antioxidant by protecting the body against free radicals and it improves the effectiveness of the immune system. Results have been noted particularly in patients with congestive heart failure. A daily dose of from 50 to 150 mg of Coenzyme Q10 has been suggested for maintenance and to aid heart failure, however, up to 300 milligrams a day may be needed when heart failure is severe.

Herbs for Cardiovascular Health

There are many herbs that are known to help the heart, improve circulation, and prevent heart disease. A few of ones that I consider the most important are listed below:

Garlic

Garlic is a powerful herb that has been used by herbalists for centuries for a wide variety of health problems. Recently scientists have confirmed many of the claims made by herbalists. Garlic has been shown to be effective in helping normalize high blood pressure. It has also proven useful as a "blood thinner," since it inhibits blood clotting. Garlic has also been shown to help lower cholesterol levels for those who have high serum cholesterol.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn Berries is widely used by herbalists around the world for cardiac problems, particularly to strengthen a weakened heart. Scientists have discovered that hawthorn also dilates blood vessels allowing blood to flow more freely and thereby lowers the blood pressure. It also acts directly on the heart muscle to help heal damaged heart tissue.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is the most popular herbal food in Germany and France, outselling other herbal products by 20 percent. Ginkgo contains flavonoid glycosides like quercetin. Quercetin is the "magic" ingredient in red wine that helps protect the French from heart disease. It helps prevent heart attack by preventing cholesterol oxidation.

An Aspirin a Day?

Before leaving the subject of heart disease, I would like to talk briefly about the "aspirin a day" recommendation that is being promoted by the aspirin industry through mass media advertising and the medical profession. It is true that aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack. However, aspirin is a drug with dangerous side effects, especially when taken over a long period of time. These side effects include (but are not limited to) potentially severe and even fatal gastrointestinal bleeding. Two thousand Americans die each year due to gastrointestinal bleeding caused by regular aspirin use. Some studies have also found that aspirin, as well as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), may actually speed joint destruction—bad news for the millions who are taking NSAIDS for arthritis. The reason it is being highly promoted is because aspirin manufacturers have watched their sales drop sharply with the introduction of aspirin substitutes. They have therefore, and quite successfully, devised a scheme to increase their sales. Before running out to buy a king-sized bottle of aspirin, remember that natural supplements like garlic and vitamin E with selenium work better—and without the negative side effects! The side effects of garlic include such benefits as fewer colds and flu due to improved functioning of your immune system. The side effects of vitamin E with selenium include increased protection against cancer! In my opinion, the nutritional approach is by far A BETTER WAY—unless of course you have stock in the aspirin industry.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

Conclusion

The heart operates continually. If it were to stop completely it would mean sudden death. The blood carries vital, life-giving oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body, supplying the raw materials for energy that powers every thought and action. The blood also carries many harmful by-products of metabolism to the kidneys and lungs to be eliminated.
The other branch of the body's circulation system is the lymphatic system, often called the secondary transport system. Cell debris and excess fluids that collect between the cells are picked up by the lymphatic system and mixed with plasma forming lymph. The valuable contents of lymph are purified in the lymph nodes and then recycled by being added back to the blood. The lymphatic system is also vitally important to the success of the immune system.
In this lesson we explored the anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system in health and disease. We also considered some of the factors scientists consider important in the prevention of heart disease, including nutritional supplementation. I have mentioned a few of what I consider to be the most important nutritional supplements for the circulatory system. This list is by no means complete. Other vitamins, minerals and herbs have also shown promise. Some of these are listed in section marked Circulatory System Products below.

If you have four or more of the following indications, you may want to consider nutritional aid to the intestinal system:

Lack of energy Eat fast food more than once a week Bags under eyes Smoking Poor concentration or memory Stressful lifestyle Family history of heart disease		Hair loss Sore or painful joints Low endurance/stamina Slow recovery from illness Diet high in processed foods Low-fiber diet High blood pressure

Lifestyle Suggestions:

• Avoid trans fats and polyunsaturated oils.
• Eat butter rather than margarine
• Use Coconut oil and olive oil
• Eggs are good for you!
• Limit sugar intake (but avoid artificial sweeteners)
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and garlic.
• Eat according to these dietary guidelines
• Engage in aerobic exercise, especially walking.
• Don't smoke.
• Manage your weight.
• Learn to handle stress. If stress is a problem, try to reduce the stressors in your life, consider learning relaxation techniques, and/or take the nutritional stress supplement.
• Take a daily fiber supplement

• Periodically Cleanse the Colon with Optrimax plum delite. If you eat meat and/or dairy products, I recommend a colon cleanse four times a year (using the season changes as reminders.) If you eat no meat or dairy products then cleanse the colon twice a year (in the Spring and again in the Fall.)  

   

 Nervous System

The nervous system consists of the brain, the spinal cord, and the network of nerves throughout the rest of the body. It is sometimes called the master system, since it regulates and coordinates every other body system. The nervous system provides a rapid means for the various parts of the body to communicate with each other. It allows us to adjust to the world around us and cope with the challenges of life. It influences how we act or react to stress. The fight or flight response is a good example. This is a hormonally stimulated state to prepare the body for an upcoming threat or challenge.

The nervous system is composed of two major parts; the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The central system is the brain and spinal cord, and is where most information is processed. The peripheral system is the network of nerves throughout the rest of the body. The peripheral nervous system allows signals to travel between the central nervous system and the body's sensory receptors and motor effectors, such as the muscles.

The Central Nervous System (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord.

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The CNS and PNS are anatomical divisions of the nervous system. The nervous system is also divided into two physiological (or functional) divisions -- a voluntary system, which as the name implies is concerned with voluntary actions such as muscle movement; and an involuntary or automatic system referred to as the autonomic nervous system.

The Autonomic Nervous System

An automatic, or autonomic, nervous system controls basic functions of the body that we do not normally have conscious control over, such as the heart rate, digestion, breathing and blood flow. These involuntary actions are controlled by the opposite and antagonistic actions of the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system - the sympathetic and the parasympathetic divisions. Most organs receive impulses from both divisions and under normal circumstances they work together for proper organ function and adaptation to the demands of life.
The sympathetic system tends to stimulate a particular function while the parasympathetic tends to calm. Normally the two nerve supplies create a balance. However, if the body is stressed, such as in the fight or flight response, the sympathetic nervous system dominates causing an increase in heart rate, breathing, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This prepares the body for quick and strenuous action. When the emergency situation has passed the parasympathetic system takes over and decreases the heart and breathing rates and diverts blood supply back to activities such as digestion and food absorption.
Problems may occur when the autonomic nervous system is out of balance. For example, over-stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to such problems as anxiety, hypertension, and digestive disturbances. Over-stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system can result in low blood pressure and fatigue. Both imbalances lead to poor adaptation to stress.

The Nerve Cell

The basic unit of the nervous system is the nerve cell, or neuron. The basic function of the neuron is to transmit information. There are approximately 28 billion neurons in the human body penetrating every tissue in every part. Neurons vary greatly in size and shape, with the longest ones—those that extend down the leg as part of the sciatic nerve—measuring over one meter. All nerve cells have a similar structure.

A basic nerve cell consists of a cell body, an axon, and many dendrites. Dendrites are thread-like branches that increase the surface area of the cell making it possible for it to receive many connections with adjoining nerve cells. Signals picked up by the dendrites travel through the cell and continue along the axon where they are transmitted to the next cell. Synaptic bulbs on the ends of the axons make connections with other nerve cells, with tiny gaps or synapses between the cells.

The Myelin Sheath

In humans and other vertebrates specialized cells called Schwann cells wrap around the axons of some neurons forming a lipid and cholesterol-rich insulating layer called the myelin sheath. This sheath electrically insulates the axon, kind of like the plastic coating around a copper electrical wire. Neurons with myelin sheaths are said to be myelinated. They make up myelinated nerves which make up the majority of nerves in the peripheral nervous system (the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.)

Schwann cells cover most of the axon but leave bare sections at regular intervals called nodes of Ranvier. Nerve impulses which travel along a myelinated axon jump between these gaps. This process allows myelinated neurons to conduct impulses at twice the speed of unmyelinated neurons.
Without the insulating effect of myelin, nerve impulses passing along one axon can generate impulses in nearby neurons, some of which stimulate muscle contraction. This can cause shivering and jerky movements of the muscles. People whose myelin sheaths are damaged, as a result of multiple sclerosis for example, have difficulties in controlling their muscles.

The Propagation of a Nerve Impulse

Like the other cells of the body neurons contain charged ions including potassium, sodium and chlorine. Potassium and sodium are positively charged ions whereas chlorine is a negatively charged ion. Unlike most other cells, neurons are able to depolarize, creating a nerve impulse, by rapidly changing the concentration of ions inside the cell relative to the outside of the cell.
When at rest a neuron is polarized—that is, it has a negative charge on the inside of the cell relative to the outside of the cell. This is because it has a higher concentration of negatively charged ions on the inside. When stimulated, the nerve cell membrane becomes permeable to sodium ions, which rush in temporarily causing a positive charge to build up on the inside relative to the outside. For a short time afterward, referred to as the "refractory period," the nerve cell is unable to "fire" again. A mechanism in its cell membrane has to "pump" the sodium ions back out again, restoring the negative charge and the "action potential" to the cell. Once the action potential is restored the neuron is ready to transmit the next nerve impulse. This all takes place in a very short period of time, measured in microseconds, as a single nerve cell can fire hundreds of times during a single second.

When the electrical impulse reaches the end of the axon it is transferred to the next nerve cell so the message can continue. At the end of the axon the cell widens out and forms a bulb which comes close to but does not touch the next nerve cell. It is this tiny space between the two cells that is referred to as a synapse. Transmission of the signal across a synapse involves the release of a chemical, called a neurotransmitter, which passes from one cell to the other across the synapse. The neurotransmitter acts on receptor sites on the second cell's membrane, changing its permeability to sodium ions and thus stimulating depolarization. In this manner the nerve impulse is transferred to the second cell.

After the neurotransmitter has had its intended effect on the neighboring cell, the cell which released the neurotransmitter will re-uptake any remaining. In this way the neurotransmitter is recycled and the cell is ready for the next nerve impulse.
Scientists have identified more than 50 neurotransmitters but there are certainly more. The most common are acetylcholine and adrenaline. Neurotransmitters are divided into four main groups:

1. acetylcholine
2. amino acids such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glycine and glutamate
3. monoamines such as noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin, and
4. neuropeptides (chains of amino acids) such as endorphins.

Acetylcholine was the first neurotransmitter to be discovered. It has an excitatory effect at the junction between nerves and muscles. Nerve pathways which use acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter are generally involved in memory, motivation and arousal. Dopamine is another neurotransmitter. A shortage of dopamine in the brain causes Parkinson's disease. Over-activity of the nerve cells that release dopamine seems to be related to schizophrenia.
Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that has received a lot of attention by the scientific community because it has been discovered that deficiencies in serotonin in the brain are associated with depression. Additionally, deficiencies of serotonin, or disturbances in serotonin transmission, seem to underlie many psychiatric problems such as bulimia and kleptomania.

Axoplasmic Flow and the Neurotrophic Function of Nerve Cells

We have seen that the nervous system is one of the most complex systems in the body. Despite all that we know, there is still much more that we do not understand. In recent years for example scientists have discovered a neurotrophic [neuro-, nerve + -trophic, to feed] function of the nerves. In addition to the release of neurotransmitters for signal conduction, some chemicals are released that "feed" the receptor cells, and may even be necessary for the optimal functioning of the nerves and other body tissues that they are connected with. These chemicals are manufactured in the cell body and travel down the axon, a process referred to as axoplasmic flow, and are then released across the synapse.
Perhaps the least understood function of the nerves is that related to the energy fields of the body, such as the accupuncture meridians so important to the traditional system of Chinese medicine. Although these energy fields do not flow exactly along the pathways of nerves, they do seem to be related to the nerves. A physician by the name of Robert O. Becker performed years of research in this field, greatly increasing our understanding. Becker was curious as to why some animals, like salamanders and frogs, could regenerate lost limbs; while higher animals like humans could not. He also wondered how the animal's body knew which part to regrow. For example, how did the salamander's body know to grow a hind leg instead of a fore leg; or a tail instead of a leg.
One of the experiments that Becker performed was rerouting a salamander's sciatic nerve (the largest nerve of the hind leg) to the area where the animal's fore leg had been removed. To his astonishment the animal grew a hind leg in place of the fore leg. In addition to creating some strange looking salamanders, Becker discovered the existence of an energy field that told the animal's body what part to regrow, and which was directly related to the nerves. Becker has written two books which relate his research findings and opinions: The Body Electric and Cross Currents. (The latter book might be of interest to some individuals. I don't really recommend The Body Electric, unless you need reading material to put you to sleep.)

In Cross Currents Dr. Becker discusses the emergence of electromagnetic medicine, which promises to unlock the secrets of healing; and the growth of electromagnetic pollution, which poses a clear environmental danger. He explains the effectiveness of alternative healing methods such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and chi kung, which use the body's innate electrical healing systems; and warns that our bodies are being adversely affected by power lines, computers, microwaves and satellite dishes. He maintains that we are being constantly bombarded by harmful electromagnetic radiation but medical studies showing the dangers of this radiation are buried due to economic interests. As a result of this radiation many people are suffering from all sorts of ailments that doctors are unable to diagnose.

Common Diseases of the Nervous System Now that we have presented a brief overview of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, we will look at some common problems that can result when something goes wrong with this important system. We will also consider common treatments for nerve-related problems and finally explore ways in which individuals with such problems can be nutritionally supported. Depression We must begin our discussion of depression with a word of CAUTION: Severely depressed individuals are at a serious risk for suicide, particularly when their depression medication is suddenly withdrawn. Individuals on drugs for depression should generally be withdrawn very slowly, and then only under the supervision of their physician. Although mild to moderate depression is often amenable to natural methods, severely depressed individuals should be monitored by a health professional at all times. It is estimated that up to 70% of adults will suffer from clinical depression at some time in their lives. ("Clinical" means that it is severe enough to warrant medical treatment.) Depression can strike anyone—old and young. It can be triggered by unemployment, divorce, separation, loneliness, after childbirth, after viral infections, and from grief due to the death of a loved one. Depressed people get tired easily, suffer from loss of appetite, and have trouble concentrating and sleeping. Doctors believe that stimulating the brain's neural activity might help depression and this is what the three main types of antidepressant drugs attempt to do. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO Inhibitors or MAOIs) block the breakdown of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, increasing its level in the brain. It has been observed that decreased levels of noradrenaline in the brainstem, the region involved in control of moods, usually occurs in depression. Although the MAOIs generally work, they have some potentially serious side-effects for many individuals and can even be fatal. The second type of antidepressant drugs were the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). These act the same way as MAOIs—to increase levels of noradrenaline—but don't have side effects quite as dangerous. However, TCAs take several weeks to work. The newest type of anti depressant drugs are the Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) - the most notorious being Prozac, although many others have been added to the mix. As we saw in the section on neurotransmitters, depression has been found to be associated with decreased levels of serotonin in the brain. As with all neurotransmitters, the action of serotonin is normally terminated by its reuptake by the nerve which released it. SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin by the axon's synaptic bulbs. Since less of the neurotransmitter is reabsorbed, more of it remains in the synapse where it continues acting on the neighboring dendrite. This makes a little serotonin go a long way, so to speak. SSRIs are often effective at alleviating depression although it may take over two months to experience an elevation in mood—too long for suicidally depressed individuals. SSRI drugs, like all drugs used to treat depression, are not without negative side-effects. One of the side-effects of anti-depression drugs in general, and SSRIs in particular, is interference with normal sexual function. The good news for these individuals is that recent medical studies have demonstrated that the herb Ginkgo biloba can be very helpful for this particular side-effect. There is also a huge amount of anecdotal evidence suggesting that these types of drugs have been implicated in murder/suicides, including mass murders. Many analysts have observed that nearly all mass murderers had recently started taking an SSRI, or had been taken off of one, just prior to their murderous rampage. In fact, a perusal of the drug company inserts distributed with these drugs will reveal that the drug companies admit to many potential side effects which could be associated with this type of behavior. It appears that the most dangerous times for these individuals is when they first get on their drug, or when there is an alteration to their medication, including when they are withdrawn from it. Unfortunately, because these are very profitable drugs for the drug industry, accounting for billions of dollars in profits each year, and because much of this money finds its way into the advertising revenues of the media, and into the pockets of politicians, this connection is almost totally ignored by the mainstream media and the public servants as well, resulting in an almost total lack of awareness of this connection on the part of the general population. Another problem is that much of the current leadership, and the media which they control, have an agenda to disarm ordinary citizens, so they would rather blame the weapons these murderers use in order to have an excuse to outlaw them, and giving any attention to the real problems associated with these mass murders (psychotropic drugs and disarming the victims in "gun-free" zones) would expose the blatant fallacies of their political agenda. For those individuals who suffer from clinical and sub-clinical depression, fortunately, certain nutritional substances have been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain naturally and without dangerous side effects. One of the most promising is a precursor to serotonin known as 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), which we will discuss in a later section of this lesson. In drastic contrast to SSRI drugs, 5-HTP seems to be without negative side-effects, but most people will never hear of it, because drug companies can't make a billion dollars with 5-HTP so there will never be enough money to inform the masses through the media, or to fund a lobby to line the pockets of politicians.

SAD

For a long time researchers have noticed that depression seems to be more common in the winter months—when the daylight portion of the day is shorter. Scientists now know that the relationship between depression and the decrease in daylight is no mere coincidence. Our nervous systems are affected by the shorter days and by the decreased exposure to light. Clinicians have even coined a term for this condition: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.
Not everyone is affected by SAD. Some people seem to be immune to the malady while others suffer to the point of incapacity. Most of us fall somewhere in between the two extremes.
What can be done to prevent SAD? (1) We can use artificial lights to lengthen our "day" by turning on bright lights early in the morning and extending their use into the evening hours after the sun has gone down. "Full-Spectrum" lighting is best. If you are using fluorescent lights choose the "Daylight" bulbs. (2) We can also support our nervous systems with good nutrition during this time of the year, including herbs like St. John's Wort, which will be discussed in detail later in this lesson.
Vitamin D3 may also prove helpful in the battle against SAD. Known as the "sunshine vitamin," D3 is manufactured in the body by the action of sunlight on the cholesterol in the skin. D3 is important for the immune system, which is a major reason why people suffer from conditions like the common cold and flu more during the Winter months when we are exposed to less sunlight. In fact, research has shown that supplementation with Vitamin D3 during the Winter months is more helpful in preventing the flu than the controversial and potentially dangerous flu shot. Vitamin D3 is also helpful in supporting a good mood, so a decrease in the body's production of this important vitamin during the darker months may explain a causative factor in SAD, and supplementing during these months may help combat or in some cases entirely prevent this malady.

ADD and ADHD

There is some controversy among natural health experts as to whether Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are real conditions, or simply conditions created by the drug industry to sell profitable drugs. Part of the problem may also rest with overworked school teachers who have to handle a lot of boisterous children all day, and who find their jobs easier when their "problem" students are drugged into submission. Thousands of children are sent home from school each year with notes for their parents suggesting that they put their children on the drug Ritilin. Parents are even made to feel guilty when they are reluctant to do so, as if they are bad parents if they don't give their children the "medications they need."

Unfortunately, we are drugging our children for a sickness—not of the children—but of a diseased public educational system.

If you want healthy drug-free children, the best solution is to home school them. However, since many parents will not consider this an option, and because helpless children will continue to be given this diagnosis, real or not, I will address these conditions as a real problem, because whether they are social not, they are a real problem for many children and their parents. The medical profession maintains that the cause is unknown, but alternative practitioners know from clinical experience that the problem is both social, and nutritional. Consider the junk foods that children consume today—during the time of life when the nervous system is growing and developing very rapidly—and there will be little wonder why such functional problems of the nervous systems are so common. Additionally, our children are bombarded with countless toxins, in the form of food additives, as well as environmental assaults, psychological assaults (e.g., television, advertising, propaganda) and now a whole spectrum of electromagnetic pollution (cell phones, wireless communications, electrical currents, etc.) It is a wonder that our children are able to adapt to these onslaughts as well as they have!
It is truly sad that our children have become the dumping grounds for the drug companies, who reap billions of dollars in profits each year with their so called "drugs for everyday living." They would have us believe that disease is essentially a state of drug deficiency, when in actuality it is more likely to be a state of nutritional deficiency. Many of these functional problems of the nervous system respond extremely well to a good nutritional program that feeds the nervous system. We will discuss this later in another section of this lesson.

Why Are So Many Drugs Addictive?

People can get addicted to many things including alcohol, nicotine (in tobacco), prescription drugs, cocaine, antidepressants, many other drugs, and even chocolate! There appears to be biological as well as social and psychological reasons for addiction. Scientists believe that addictive substances directly stimulate "pleasure pathways" in the brain. Pleasure pathways serve an important biological function, they insure that we will engage in the behaviors that are necessary for survival—behaviors such eating and sex for example. Unfortunately many drugs can bypass the normal methods of stimulating these areas of the brain and addiction can be the consequence. Addicted laboratory rats have been observed to starve themselves to death, preferring their addictive substance to food and water. Humans can behave the same way to powerfully addictive drugs. We have long known that some people, alcoholics for example, are more likely to get addicted to drugs than others. Scientists have discovered that some people seem to have a genetic predisposition to becoming addicted. Although the mechanism is not clearly understood, it appears that individuals prone to addiction tend to have problems related to the neurotransmitters in their brain. Perhaps certain neurotransmitters are not produced in sufficient quantities, or there are abnormalities in their reuptake. Addictions are also associated with nutritional deficiencies, or more likely, an interplay between such deficiencies and the other factors mentioned above.
Certain nutritional substances can positively effect the body's production and utilization of neurotransmitters helping some people overcome their addictions. It has been clinically observed that addiction treatment centers that incorporate nutrition in their treatment regimens have half the failures of those treatment centers that use only drugs and talk or group therapy. We will discuss this further in the section on Nutritional Support for Alcoholics and Addicts.

Sleep, Melatonin, and Jet Lag

Scientists have discovered that all animals and humans have an internal biological clock that controls cyclic activities such as sleeping, body temperature, and reproductive cycles. These clocks are influenced by external cues such as light and temperature.
The biological clock that controls many of these functions is located in the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland that extends down from the base of the brain. The pineal gland receives signals from other areas of the brain and from the eyes as well. It manufactures a hormone called melatonin which it secretes into the blood stream to effect other areas in the body. Melatonin is secreted when, according to our internal biological clock, it is time for us to sleep.

When we travel across several time zones, like from the East coast of America to the West coast, or from America to Europe, our body's biological clock continues to run for a while on the old time zone. Our body may be telling us that it is time to sleep, for example, while other cues are telling us to stay awake. Thus you may have trouble falling asleep at night, or you might have trouble staying awake during the day. This condition is called jet lag. The symptoms of jet lag are less when you fly West than when you travel East. This is because the body finds it easier to delay or slow down its clock than it does to speed it up. Scientists have discovered that 1 to 3 mg of melatonin, when taken 30 minutes before you wish to sleep, can greatly help the body overcome jet lag in a much shorter period of time. This supplemental melatonin helps reset the body's internal biological clock to the new time zone, and in the meantime it also helps you sleep when you want to.

Schizophrenia

Nearly one out of every 100 people suffer from Schizophrenia, a very severe mental illness. The symptoms of schizophrenia include positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, and negative symptoms such as withdrawal and apathy. There are many theories about the cause, but schizophrenia is still a poorly understood disease. Researchers have discovered that there is over-activity of nerve cells in certain regions of the brain that release the neurotransmitter dopamine. However, this does not completely explain the contrasting symptoms that schizophrenics experience.
The neuroleptic drugs that block dopamine are used to treat schizophrenia. These can help with some of the positive symptoms, the hallucinations and delusions, but not with the negative symptoms, withdrawal and apathy. Additionally, one of the side effects of blocking dopamine secretion is disruption of motor coordination, resulting in side effects similar to the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Recently researchers have discovered that schizophrenics make too much of an enzyme involved in the production of certain fats important for normal brain cell activity. Drug companies are attempting to develop new drugs that can effect this enzyme's activity, in order to treat the disease.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease was named after a German neurologist, Alois Alzheimer, who first described the disease in 1907. It is a form of dementia that occurs primarily in older people, although it can strike those in their forties and fifties as well. Approximately 4-5% of people over 65 have symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. This number is expected to double by the year 2021 as the average age of the population increases and as cholesterol drug use expands, a major cause of Alzheimer's and other dementias. On the average people die 8 years after being diagnosed with the disease, although this can vary from 2 to 12 years. This makes Alzheimer's Disease the fourth largest cause of death after heart disease, cancer and stroke.
Alzheimer's disease starts with an impairment of short term memory but worsens until the victim has difficulties recognizing people they know. It is a difficult disease to diagnose because similar symptoms can be caused by other problems such as depression, alcoholism, virus infections, and even side-effects from medications. A diagnosis can only be made after death by autopsy. The brains of Alzheimer's patients are distinguished by the loss of acetylcholine-containing neurons and the presence of structures in the brain called plaques and tangles, which consist mostly of clumps of dead neurons. Scientists do not know whether the plaques and tangles are the cause of the disease or a consequence of some other problem in the brain. Since there is a significant loss of acetylcholine, drug treatments, such as tacrine and donepezil, (which have been mostly disappointing), have attempted to enhance the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
A new dietary supplement called Huperzine A has shown promise for Alzheimer's disease. Huperzine is a naturally-occurring chemical found in a traditional Chinese herb, Chinese club moss (Huperzia serrata.) Huperzine acts as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (inhibits the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.) Current research shows that the effects of huperzine are similar to but potentially more potent than the drugs tacrine or donepezil. Huperzine is without the negative side-effects of these drugs and is therefore much safer. Evidence also indicates that huperzine has neuroprotective effects, which means that it may help prevent further nerve damage. (We will discuss Huperzine A further in the herbal section of this lesson.)
Another extremely promising supplement for Alzheimer's and other dementias is coconut oil. Watch the fascinating video interview below. You probably haven't heard of this treatment yet because the drug industry is busy trying to figure out how they can produce a patented concentrate from coconut oil, but you don't have to wait. Add coconut oil to your diet now!\
 
 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to the symptom complex which results when the median nerve is entrapped or pinched in the carpal tunnel—the tunnel between the bones of the wrist through which the nerve passes to enervate the hand. The median nerve supplies sensation to the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger. It also supplies a branch to the thenar muscles of the thumb.
One of the first symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is numbness in the distribution of the median nerve. This is usually followed by pain in the same area. The pain can radiate up the arm to the shoulder and neck. If the condition continues it can lead to weakness in one's ability to grasp.
 

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel not only contains the median nerve, but also the tendons of the forearm that are responsible for the flexion of the fingers (grasp). When these tendons, and the sheaths through which they glide, become inflamed due to overuse or arthritis, they swell and take up more space in the carpal tunnel. Since the tunnel is not able to expand, the swollen tendons and their sheaths pinch the median nerve resulting in the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The usual medical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is surgery. The transverse ligament of the wrist, which crosses the carpal tunnel, is cut to allow more room in the tunnel. Although it works for some people, this surgery has a poor success rate since the resulting scar tissue, which tends to contract over time, can sometimes exert even more pressure on the carpal tunnel than was previously the case.

Herbal and Nutritional Support for the Nervous System

Vitamins, Minerals and More

The B vitamins are very important for overall nervous system health. Any nutritional program targeting the nervous system should therefore include a good balanced B Complex. Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), for example, is necessary for the production of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter associated with memory. Another B vitamin, Niacin, is necessary for nervous tissue function and repair. Niacin deficiencies have been associated with mental and personality disorders.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Fish has often been referred to as "brain food." Perhaps one of the reasons is that fish oil, or Omega-3 fatty acids , has been found to supply precursors for neurotransmitters for the brain that are essential for proper mental function. Research has demonstrated that the omega 3 oils may help some people to eliminate and prevent depression and other mental problems and cravings.
As reported in the Archives of General Psychiatry (1999;56:407-412), researchers from Harvard University's McLean Hospital conducted a preliminary double-blind, placebo-controlled trial which demonstrated marked improvement in manic depressive patients given a dietary supplement containing fish oil. The researchers believed that the benefit was from the Omega 3 fatty acids, which increased the serotonin levels in the brain, possibly through some mechanism involving reinforcement of the nerve cell's lipid-rich membrane. The researchers described the effect as "very strong."

l-Glutamine

Another amino acid that serves as an important precursor for neurotransmitters is l-Glutamine. Studies have demonstrated that some behavior problems and autism in children are helped by l-glutamine supplementation. This amino acid also helps reduce cravings for sugar and alcohol and has been found to be an important supplement for those suffering from alcoholism and drug addiction, (which will be discussed further in another section of this lesson.) L-Glutamine supplentation seems to stimulate mental function helping in some cases to improve alertness and learning.

GABA

GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) is a nonessential amino acid that functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (decreases neuron activity.) GABA is the brain's natural calming agent. In Prescription for Nutritional Healing, James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., state that GABA can be taken to calm the mind and body in much the same way as tranquilizer drugs like valium and librium, but without the fear of addiction.
GABA has a slight relaxing or sedative effect which makes it ideal for use right before going to sleep. Many people report an improvement in the quality of their sleep and a feeling of well-being upon arising in the morning. Lucid or colorful dreams are also frequently reported.
Hundreds of clinicals studies have been conducted on GABA. Many of these indicate that it may help the release of human growth hormone, improve sleep cycles, alleviate pain and stabilise blood pressure. Most people experience some of GABA's benefits almost immediately, but to fully appreciate GABA's effectiveness a program of at least eight weeks is suggested. (See "GABA Rice" on page one of this Lesson.)

Melatonin

Melatonin is the substance that is secreted by the pineal gland when it is time for us to sleep. Scientists have discovered that 1 to 3 mg of melatonin, when taken 30 minutes before you wish to sleep, can greatly help the body overcome jet lag. Melatonin is also helpful for some people who have trouble falling to sleep—especially those who work night shifts and thus have to adjust their biological clocks often. One warning about melatonin: If it is taken on an regular basis it can cause grogginess during the day for some individuals. For that reason I recommend its use mostly for jet lag.

Herbs for the Nervous System

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae), or Maidenhair-Tree, is an ancient Chinese tree and one of the oldest still existing plants. Extracts from its leaves have been used in China for centuries for its health benefits. It wasn't until the 1960's that Ginkgo became widely known to the Western World. Today it is grown in many parts of the United States as an ornamental tree, and many Americans are beginning to discover what the Europeans have known for decades, and the Chinese for centuries, that Ginkgo has some remarkable health-enhancing effects.
Ginkgo biloba extract is one of the most popular over-the-counter medicines used in Europe, where the medical community has recognized it as effective in the treatment of cerebral insufficiency (decreased blood flow to the brain). Recent studies have demonstrated Ginkgo's therapeutic effects in the treatment of dementia (reduction of intellectual capacity), earning it the approval of the German BGA (Bundesgesundheit Amt).¹ According to medical research, indications for Ginkgo biloba extracts include Alzheimer's disease and similar dementias, cerebral insufficiency due to stroke, and atherosclerotic disease of the peripheral arteries.²
There are two groups of substances in Ginkgo which scientists consider to be important; the flavonoids, effective as antioxidants, and the terpenes (ginkgolides), which function as anti-coagulants.² The antioxidant action of Ginkgo has been shown to have beneficial effects on brain neurons subjected to ischemia (lack of oxygen). Myricetin and quercetin, the flavonoid constituents of Ginkgo biloba, are believed to be at least partly responsible.³
Ginkgo has repeatedly been shown to improve cognitive functions in humans and laboratory animals. As we saw in a previous section, decreases in cell membrane fluidity may be a major mechanism in age-related functional decline. A prime cause for the decrease in membrane fluidity is the presence of free radicals. With its antioxidant effect, Gingko biloba extract protects neuronal cell membranes from free radical damage.⁴ Additionally, Ginkgo helps the brain recover from damage quicker and more completely.⁵
A review of the scientific literature reveals that there is substantial experimental evidence to support the view that Ginkgo biloba extracts help protect nerve cells from damage due to hypoxia and ischemia (loss of oxygen supply usually due to arteriosclerosis or stroke).⁶ These studies have also shown that Ginkgo extract is virtually free of side-effects.⁷ In several placebo-controlled double-blind clinical studies, symptoms of cerebral insufficiency due to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias have been effectively and significantly influenced.^2,7,8,9,10 A double blind study done in Denmark, for example, found that Ginkgo biloba extract improved concentration and memory in elderly patients with arterial insufficiency (poor circulation to the brain).¹¹

Depression

We saw in the section of this lesson covering the neurotransmitters of the brain that Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO Inhibitors or MAOIs) is a group of drugs that are sometimes effective in treating depression. However, these drugs have a potential for serious side-effects. Extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves have been shown to inhibit MAO without any adverse side-effects. This is apparently the mechanism behind Ginkgo's reported anti-stress and anti-anxiety effects and leads some to believe that Ginkgo may prove to be an effective aid for individuals suffering from depression.¹²

Ginkgo for the Heart and Cardiovascular System

Ginkgo has been shown to increase the blood flow to cardiac muscle by reducing the arteriolar spasms that often accompany heart disease.¹³ Several studies have also shown that by its free radical scavenging ability, Ginkgo helps protect heart muscle from damage due to hypoxia (lack of oxygen.)^14,15,16
In one medical study performed in China, extracts of Ginkgo were administered to forty-six coronary heart disease patients resulting in the alleviation of the symptom of angina, improved abnormal electrocardiograms, and decreased blood lipid levels.¹⁶ Ginkgo has been shown to have an inhibitory effect on blood platelet aggregation, (the clumping of platelets forming clots); and has been found to inhibit the increase of serum triglyceride levels in high cholesterol diet-treated mice.¹⁷
In a placebo-controlled study conducted in Switzerland, treatment with Ginkgo biloba extract produced a highly significant improvement in the walking ability of patients suffering from intermittent claudication, a condition in which severe pain is felt in the calves of the legs when walking due to an inadequate blood supply to the muscles.¹⁸

Other Benefits of Ginkgo

In addition to its beneficial effects for the nervous and cardiovascular systems, research has indicated that Ginkgo may hold promise for the treatment of impotence especially when combined with Gotu Kola herb. By its general antioxidant effect, it has also been found to significantly reduce impairments to the retina of the eye caused by free-radical damage.^20,21 Ginkgo has been found to hold promise for individuals suffering from vertigo ²² and for hearing loss due to compromised blood flow.^23,24 A medical study done in France found that Ginkgo helps the congestive symptoms of PMS, particularly breast symptoms.²⁵ Finally, there is clear experimental evidence showing that Ginkgo is beneficial for chronic hepatitis because it helps the body arrest and even partially reabsorb liver fibrosis.²⁶
The extract of Ginkgo is usually used in herbology because the herb must be concentrated for maximum effectiveness. In traditional Chinese medicine, the daily dosage was 3 to 6 grams of leaves as an infusion. The leaves are collected in the Fall after they have turned yellow.
Ginkgo extract is practically free of negative side-effects. Rarely individuals have reported headache, presumably because of the increased blood flow to the brain. If the dosage is reduced for these individuals this symptom may be eliminated. The time-release version of Ginkgo extract may also help prevent this relatively uncommon side-effect, since the dosage is released gradually.

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola (Hydrocotyle asiatica, also known as Centella asiatica) is a creeping marsh plant which contains no cola or caffeine, as its name would suggest. A member of the parsley family, it grows in tropical areas and is used in some places as ground cover to retard soil erosion. It grows primarily in India and in some parts of Africa. It is also found in America, where it has generally been considered only a food for wild animals. It contains many nutritional properties which support the body's vitality and feed the nervous system—such as vitamins A, B, E, G and K, and the mineral magnesium.

 

The Immune System

Have you ever noticed, during the "cold and flu season," that some people seem to be sick all the time while others seem to never get sick? Why is it that even though we are exposed to the same "germs," not all of us will get sick? Does this happen by chance or are laws of nature responsible?

Sickness Does Not Happen By Chance!

The reason some people are sick a lot is because they have weak immune systems. Conversely, the reason some people are more resistant is because they have strong immune systems. Our immune system is our body's natural defense against disease. It includes our lymphatic system and all the various types of white blood cells that recognize, engulf and destroy pathogenic (disease-causing) viruses, fungi, bacteria, and parasites—ideally before they have had a chance to make us sick.

In the same way, certain white blood cells of the immune system also protect us from cancer. When a cancer cell is produced in the body, these white blood cells will find it and destroy it, usually before it gets out of control and invades other parts of the body. So a strong immune system is also our best defense against cancer.

Even though we are exposed to the same "germs," not all of us will get sick. This is because some of us have stronger immune systems than others.

The Body's Natural Defenses

From the point of view of our cells, the world is indeed a dangerous place. Billions of microorganisms can be found everywhere—waiting for an opportunity to invade our bodies. For this reason we are equipped with special defenses against such opportunistic invaders. These defenses include the skin; mucus in such places as the lungs, nasal pasages, etc.; acids and enzymes in the digestive tract; and—when all else fails—the immune system.

The Skin

The skin provides a barrier which effectively keeps most would-be invaders out of the body. We all know how a cut in the skin can lead to an infection. This is because the integrity of the skin has been broken allowing the invaders to enter.

Mucus in Lungs, Nasal Passages, etc.

Many microorganisms, or "germs," are trapped by the mucus that lines the openings to the body. Without the mucus, these openings would be easy portals of entry. When all goes well, the organisms are killed by this mucus and ejected from the body by such a mechanism as a cough or a sneeze.

Acids and Enzymes in the Digestive Tract

Organisms that enter through the mouth in our food or drink are usually killed by the acids and enzymes in the stomach and intestines.

The Lymphatic System

A key component of the immune system is the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system can be thought of as a secondary circulatory system. The lymph vessels contain a clear, colorless fluid called lymph, which is derived from a network of capillaries which collect this clear fluid as it filters through the capillaries of the blood. The lymphatic system provides our immune defenses, filters foreign substances and cell debris from the blood and destroys them; and produces a type of white blood cells known as lymphocytes, which circulate in the blood and lymph vessels.

Lymph passes from tiny capillaries to lymph vessels and flows through lymph nodes that are located along the course of these vessels. Cells of the lymph nodes phagocytize, or ingest, such impurities as bacteria, old red blood cells, and toxic and cellular waste. Finally, the lymph flows into either the thoracic duct, a large vessel that runs parallel to the spinal column, or into the right lymphatic duct, both of which transport the lymph back into veins of the shoulder areas where is reenters the general circulation. All lymph vessels contain one-way valves, like the veins, to prevent backflow.
In an infection, the lymph nodes occasionally become enlarged with lymph and white blood cells and become palpable (can be felt by an examiner). These can be felt most easily at the neck, in infections of the neck and head; in the axillary region (the armpit), in infections of the breast or arm; and in the inguinal region (the groin), in infections of the pelvis or lower extremities.
Unlike the blood, which is forced through the arteries by the pumping action of the heart, the flow of lymph is not aided by a pump. The lymph moves by way of the one-way valves, aided by the compression of lymph vessels when the muscles of the body contract. Therefore, exercise and activity is very important for the proper circulation of the lymphatic fluid.
The tissues of the lymphatic system include the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and aggregates of lymphatic tissue located in the tonsils and intestines (including the appendix). The spleen, thymus, and bone marrow manufacture lymphocytes, which are the major cell type of the system. The spleen is also involved in the destruction of old cells and other substances by phagocytosis and plays a role in immune responses. The thymus is considered the central organ that controls lymphocyte production and antibody formation.
Lymphatic tissues of the intestines are known as lacteals. They absorb digested fat (lipids), which are transported by the veins to the liver where they are processed for use by the body. Lymph fluid from lacteals is milky white because of the fat globules that are present.
The most common cell of the lymphatic system is the lymphocyte. Lymphocytes can be classified as T cells (thymus-derived) or B cells (bone-marrow-derived). Other cells of the lymphatic system include histiocytes, which are responsible for structural support of lymph tissue and for phagocytosis; monocytes, which also function to ingest foreign substances; and plasma cells, which synthesize and release antibodies. Monocytes are believed to originate from lymphocytes.

Humoral Immunity: Antigens and Antibodies

An antigen is a substance that, when introduced into the body, induces an immune response consisting of the production of a circulating antibody. An antibody is a molecule that is responsible for recognizing and marking an antigen for destruction by the white blood cells. This type of immunity is known as humoral immunity and is provided by the B cells. Within a few days after an infection, an antigen results in large amounts of the antibody capable of interacting with it.

Cell-Mediated Immunity

T cells are involved in the attacking of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi, in some skin reactions resulting from contact with chemicals (contact dermatitis), and in immunity to cancer cells. Because the immunity associated with T cells does not involve the secretion of antibodies but requires direct physical contact with antigens, it is called cell-mediated immunity.
Scientists have recently discovered that there are four kinds of T cells. One kind, the cytotoxic T cell, defends the body by destroying foreign, infected, and cancerous cells. Helper T cells regulate immune responses, enabling the other T cells and B cells to perform their functions, by secreting messenger proteins or by direct contact with other cells. It is this cell that is destroyed by the HIV virus in patients with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Destruction of helper T cells results in a depressed immune response allowing infection by a variety of microorganisms and the growth of certain kinds of tumors. The third kind of T cell, suppressor T cells, dampen the immune response of B and T cells to keep them in check. The fourth kind of T cell is involved in certain kinds of hypersensitivity reactions.
Under normal circumstances the immune system responds to foreign organisms by the production of antibodies and the stimulation of specialized cells which destroy the organisms or neutralize their toxic products. In a normal healthy individual there is a balance of all the different cell types of the immune system providing an effective defense against all foreign invaders. When the immune response is not working properly (immunodeficient), as in AIDS, the individual will become more susceptible to repeated infections.
Another important function of the immune system is the removal of damaged or dying cells. When the immune system is out of balance, this function may be misdirected resulting in an immune response against the body's own cells producing a condition known as an autoimmune disease.
The function of the immune system most recently discovered is the system's ability to recognize and eliminate the abnormal (mutant) cells that frequently arise within the body. These mutant, or cancer, cells may occur spontaneously, or they may be induced by certain viruses (oncogenic viruses) or chemicals (mutagens). An immune system that is functioning properly can recognize and dispose of such cancer cells by means of a process called immune surveillance. The malfunction of this process may result in cancer.

Cell-Mediated Immunity

T cells are involved in the attacking of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi, in some skin reactions resulting from contact with chemicals (contact dermatitis), and in immunity to cancer cells. Because the immunity associated with T cells does not involve the secretion of antibodies but requires direct physical contact with antigens, it is called cell-mediated immunity.
Scientists have recently discovered that there are four kinds of T cells. One kind, the cytotoxic T cell, defends the body by destroying foreign, infected, and cancerous cells. Helper T cells regulate immune responses, enabling the other T cells and B cells to perform their functions, by secreting messenger proteins or by direct contact with other cells. It is this cell that is destroyed by the HIV virus in patients with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Destruction of helper T cells results in a depressed immune response allowing infection by a variety of microorganisms and the growth of certain kinds of tumors. The third kind of T cell, suppressor T cells, dampen the immune response of B and T cells to keep them in check. The fourth kind of T cell is involved in certain kinds of hypersensitivity reactions.
Under normal circumstances the immune system responds to foreign organisms by the production of antibodies and the stimulation of specialized cells which destroy the organisms or neutralize their toxic products. In a normal healthy individual there is a balance of all the different cell types of the immune system providing an effective defense against all foreign invaders. When the immune response is not working properly (immunodeficient), as in AIDS, the individual will become more susceptible to repeated infections.
Another important function of the immune system is the removal of damaged or dying cells. When the immune system is out of balance, this function may be misdirected resulting in an immune response against the body's own cells producing a condition known as an autoimmune disease.
The function of the immune system most recently discovered is the system's ability to recognize and eliminate the abnormal (mutant) cells that frequently arise within the body. These mutant, or cancer, cells may occur spontaneously, or they may be induced by certain viruses (oncogenic viruses) or chemicals (mutagens). An immune system that is functioning properly can recognize and dispose of such cancer cells by means of a process called immune surveillance. The malfunction of this process may result in cancer.
One function of the immune system is to recognize and eliminate cancer cells that arise within the body. This process is known as. . .

The Immune System

Despite the above measures of protection, occasionally an unwelcome visitor gets through the first line of defense and starts to create a problem. This is when our immune system is called into action.

 One function of the immune system is to recognize and eliminate cancer cells that arise within the body. This process is known as immune surveillance.

Although a lot has been discovered in recent years about the immune system and how it works, it still poses many mysteries for the scientists who study it. It is still unclear just how the immune system performs even its most basic functions. Fortunately for us, we do not have to wait for scientists to catch up with the wisdom of the body. Our immune systems have performed wonders for many years and will continue to do so as long as we maintain our health.

Support for the Immune System

"Our mode of life itself, the way we live, is emerging as today's principal cause of illness." Dr. Joel Elkes, director of Behavioral Medicine at the University of Louisville

What we eat and drink and how we live are key factors in keeping our immune system running at optimal capacity. Recent research on the immune system has demonstrated the importance of vitamins A, C, and E and the minerals zinc and selenium. Vitamins A, C and E are important for the formation of white blood cells. Selenium stimulates formation of antibodies to combat viruses and bacteria. Zinc stimulates the "killer" cells that search out and destroy harmful viruses and bacteria.

We make choices every day that effect our immune system and our health—the foods we eat, the exercise we get (or don't get), the nutritional supplements we take, our mental attitude, whether or not we smoke, etc. Bad choices weaken our bodies and our immune systems while good choices strengthen our bodies and our immune systems. Other factors, such as age and heredity, also play a part but their role is much less important than the part we play in our lifestyle choices.

What Can We Do to Strengthen Our Immune System?

1. Eat a sensible diet including the recommended five daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contain "phytonutrients" and "antioxidants" that support the immune system and protect our health.
2. Eat sufficient amounts of high-quality protein. 
3. Cut back on "junk foods." Junk foods and processed foods are low in vitamins and often contain chemicals that weaken the body. They are also high in the bad fat, or trans-fats, which places additional stress on the body and increases our risk of cancer and heart disease.
4. Don't smoke. If you drink alcohol, keep it moderate. These rob our bodies of nutrients and antioxidants that are needed to support the immune system. They also produce free-radicals that injure the immune system and our health.
5. Take a good multiple vitamin/mineral supplement.
6. Get regular vigorous exercise, such as walking. Exercise has many benefits including weight control and cardiovascular fitness. Exercise also stimulates the circulation (including the lymphatic system) which helps the immune system do its job more efficiently.
7. In addition to the above, many herbs and herbal combinations have been used by herbalists for centuries to strengthen and support the immune system. These may be used during special times of need, such as season changes or during the "cold and flu season"; and may also prove helpful for those who have weakened immune systems, such as the elderly.

Herbs for the Immune System

 Recent scientific research has confirmed much of what traditional herbalists have known for years, proving that many herbs do indeed help the immune system, either by nutritionally supporting and stimulating the white blood cells and the organs that produce them, or by direct effect on the harmful organisms themselves. In the remainder of this lesson, we will explore some of these herbal alternatives.

Echinacea

Echinacea was widely used by the Plains Indians of North America. American settlers also adopted its use and the herb has been valued by natural health advocates since. Herbalists have used Echinacea for years to support the immune system, especially during season changes and during the cold and flu season.

 

Echinacea is one of the most useful herbs because it does more than nourish the immune system. It is also known as the "King of the Blood Purifiers." And Echinacea has no dangerous side-effects.

Echinacea has been one of the most scientifically studied herbs. It has been found to contain natural chemicals, echinacosides, that are beneficial to the immune system by increasing white blood cell activity against tumor cells, candida albicans, and pathological microorganisms. Echinacosides are also very powerful free radical scavengers.

There are three species of Echinacea that are valued by herbalists today; Echinacea purpurea, E. augustifolia and E. pallida. Echinacea purpurea is the Latin name for purple coneflowers (pictured), an herb native to the central and southwestern U.S. and widely-planted today as an ornamental flower. It grows in open fields and rocky soils and bears purple flowers that resemble black-eyed Susans. Extracts of Echinacea purpurea were found to enhance the cellular immune function of normal individuals and patients with depressed cellular immunity (patients with AIDS and individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome.) ¹

All three species of Echinacea were used by the Indians and have been studied for their beneficial effects on the immune system. Many herbalists believe that the most beneficial Echinacea supplements contain a combination of at least two, and perhaps all three species.

Garlic

The dietary virtues of garlic are well-known the world over. Garlic has served humankind for centuries. It has been scientifically proven to be very beneficial for both the immune and circulatory systems. The only problem with getting enough garlic into the diet has always been the odor it leaves on the breath. Recent technological breakthroughs have made it possible to manufacture "odorless garlic." The question is, does it retain the potency of fresh garlic? Studies have shown that odorless garlic does not have the same health benefits as real garlic.

Golden Seal Root

Golden Seal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a native North American herb that grows in the Appalachian Mountains and surrounding areas. The Cherokee Indians valued the root for health purposes and also for the yellow dye it produced. Once widely available in the wild, the plant has been over-harvested for years and is now mostly available through commercial cultivation. Its properties are mostly due to its alkaloids, which include berberine, hydrastine and canadine. Because demand for the herb is high and supplies are low, golden seal is one of the most expensive herbs on the market, and also one of the most counterfeited. Many herb suppliers are tempted to adulterate supplies of golden seal with other herbs of similar chemical composition, such as Oregon grape. However, only golden seal contains the important alkaloid hydrastine. It is important to buy golden seal root from a reputable company that has the technology and expertise needed to test it for hydrastine content—thus ensuring a pure, unadulterated herb.

The Glandular System

There are two basic types of glands in the human body:
Exocrine glands [exo-, outside + crin, secrete] secrete substances through a duct or tube, usually to an outside surface. Examples are tear glands, salivary glands, and sweat glands.
Endocrine glands [endo-, within + crin, secrete] are "ductless glands" which secrete substances directly into the blood stream, which carries it to target tissues or organs where it stimulates some type of action. The substances secreted by endocrine glands are called hormones, from the Greek word meaning "to urge on" or "to set in motion." Examples of endocrine glands are the pineal, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, pancreas, adrenals and the sex glands (the ovaries and testes).
The pancreas is both an exocrine and an endocrine gland. Its exocrine function is to secrete pancreatic juice through the pancreatic duct into the small intestines where it plays an important role in the digestion of food. (This is covered in the lesson on the digestive system.) The endocrine function of the pancreas includes the secretion of insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream to help regulate blood sugar levels and carbohydrate metabolism.
In the remainder of this lesson we will be limiting our discussion to the endocrine glands.

The Endocrine System

A hormone is a chemical messenger which is secreted by an endocrine gland into the bloodstream. It then travels by way of the blood to another part of the body and exerts an effect on a target tissue or organ. The messenger function of the endocrine system has been compared to that of the nervous system. However, a hormone takes longer to cause an effect than a nerve signal and its effects generally last longer.
The endocrine glands are the regulators of the body, controlling many bodily functions including drives, emotions, growth, energy production, and repair of damaged tissues. The secretion of hormones by the endocrine glands is regulated by a negative feedback cycle. An example will illustrate how this works:
Suppose you have just eaten a meal. The sugars from the meal have been absorbed from your small intestines into the bloodstream thus resulting in an increase in your blood sugar level. The pancreas senses this increase and secretes insulin into the bloodstream to bring the sugar level down by allowing it to move into the cells where it is needed for energy. Once your blood sugar level has been lowered, the pancreas responds to this (negative feedback) by decreasing its secretion of insulin.

The Endocrine System

A hormone is a chemical messenger which is secreted by an endocrine gland into the bloodstream. It then travels by way of the blood to another part of the body and exerts an effect on a target tissue or organ. The messenger function of the endocrine system has been compared to that of the nervous system. However, a hormone takes longer to cause an effect than a nerve signal and its effects generally last longer.
The endocrine glands are the regulators of the body, controlling many bodily functions including drives, emotions, growth, energy production, and repair of damaged tissues. The secretion of hormones by the endocrine glands is regulated by a negative feedback cycle. An example will illustrate how this works:
Suppose you have just eaten a meal. The sugars from the meal have been absorbed from your small intestines into the bloodstream thus resulting in an increase in your blood sugar level. The pancreas senses this increase and secretes insulin into the bloodstream to bring the sugar level down by allowing it to move into the cells where it is needed for energy. Once your blood sugar level has been lowered, the pancreas responds to this (negative feedback) by decreasing its secretion of insulin.

Pineal Gland

The pineal gland is a pea-sized organ located in the center of the brain. It is sensitive to light, as perceived through a nerve connection from the eyes. (In some animals the pineal gland perceives light directly through the skull and thus has been referred to a "third eye.")
Darkness signals the pineal gland to release melatonin, which tells our bodies that it is time to sleep. This important hormone has also been found to play a role in sexual function and energy levels and is a powerful antioxidant. In animals it controls the seasonal changes of the body, preparing animals for such activities as mating and hybernation.

Hypothalamus

Also located deep inside the brain is the hypothalamus, which secretes hormones that regulate the other glands of the body. It is responsible, along with the pituitary gland, for coordinating all the other endocrine glands of the body. It also controls the autonomic (automatic or subconscious) nervous system including such automatic functions as blood pressure, heart rate, etc.

Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland hangs down on a stalk from the hypothalamus and is closely associated with it. It has been called the "master gland" due to its role in controlling and regulating the other glands of the body. For example, it secretes hormones that stimulate the thyroid, adrenal and reproductive glands and also controls breast milk production. Growth hormone is also manufactured in the pituitary gland. Good nutrition for the pituitary gland includes trace minerals, such as those found in alfalfa, dandelion, bee pollen, kelp and spirulina. The minerals magnesium and potassium are particularly important to the functioning of this important gland.

Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland located just under the Adam's apple in the throat. It secretes a hormone into the bloodstream called thyroxine, which controls the body's metabolism—the rate at which the body burns calories for energy. It also controls the body's utilization of fat. Too little thyroxine can cause excessive fat to accumulate which can lead to weight gain. It can also result in a low level of energy, low blood pressure, and a lowered basal body temperature, making one feel colder than usual especially in the hands and feet. Such a condition is called underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism.

Who is at Risk for Underactive Thyroid?

To perform its function properly, the thyroid needs sufficient quantities of trace minerals like zinc, copper, selenium, iron, and particularly iodine: as well as adequate amounts of vitamins such as A, C, E and particularly the B vitamins. If the thyroid does not get the nutrition it needs an underactive thyroid can be the result. The habit of eating nutrient-poor fast and processed foods is the ultimate cause for some individuals. Many children have poor eating habits which can eventually lead to problems with the thyroid gland later in life. The condition called goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, was common in areas where there is little iodine in the soil until iodine was added to salt in order to increase dietary intake of this important trace mineral. Dieting, especially starvation diets which severly restrict caloric intake, is another common cause of underactive thyroid. Starvation slows the body's metabolism as it learns to expend energy more efficiently to conserve calories for the next "famine." After a starvation diet we have a tendency to gain even more weight than we took off, and we may find it even harder to lose weight the next time we try. A low-calorie diet can suppress the thyroid function within seven to 24 hours. After one to three months of such dieting, there is a danger of permanently inhibiting the thyroid function.
Another contributor to an underactive thyroid for some individuals is regular use of caffeine. Caffeine can slow the thyroid by suppressing the production of cortisol, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands which is essential to thyroid function.

What are the Symptoms of Underactive Thyroid?

If you are overweight, easily chilled, have little energy, low blood pressure, a tendency toward depression, and find it difficult to get going in the morning, you should consider an underactive thyroid as a possible cause. An underactive thyroid is also a major contributor, if not the major cause, of painful muscular conditions such as fibromyalgia. An underactive thyroid also affects the liver's ability to produce HDL's or "good" cholesterol, the kind that pulls "bad" cholesterol out of the bloodstream. It has been estimated that approximately 14% of cases of high serum cholesterol may be caused by an underactive thyroid. The best way to find out if your thyroid gland is underactive is to take your basal body temperature, which is your temperature when at complete rest. Take your temperature by mouth for three days in a row, first thing in the morning before you get out of bed. Any activity can raise your body temperature so shake the thermometer down before you go to bed and have it beside your bed when you wake up. If your body temperature is below 97.6 degrees Fahrenheit for three days in a row, you have a problem with your thyroid gland.
You may want to see your doctor to determine the severity of your thyroid problem and to discuss your treatment options. In cases of severe hypothyroidism, you doctor may want to put you on synthetic thyroxin. This may be necessary for some individuals, especially those who have had their thyroid glands surgically removed. If your underactive thyroid is not so severe your doctor's test might not indicate a problem. This is because doctors are usually looking for problems that are severe enough to require drug treatment. Doctors will usually ignore an underactive thyroid that does not meet their criteria for drug treatment. However, even mildly underactive thyroids that don't require drug treatment can never-the-less result in all of the symptoms mentioned above, including weight gain and low energy. In such cases, lifestyle and dietary changes and nutritional supplementation may be your best option.
The condition that occurs when the thyroid is functioning below normal is known as hypothyroidism [hypo-, under]. This results in a lowered basal metabolism (decreased body temperature) with the symptoms of excessive sensitivity to cold (feeling cold all the time), lethargy (sluggishness or low energy level), and excessive weight gain.
The condition that occurs when the thyroid is functioning above normal is known as hyperthyroidism [hyper-, above]. The symptoms are the opposite of hypothyroidism including excessive sensitivity to heat (feeling hot all the time) and difficulty gaining weight.
 

Parathyroid Glands

Located on the back of the thyroid gland are four tiny parathyroid glands. Hormones from the parathyroid glands help control calcium and phosphorous levels in the body. The parathyroid glands are necessary for proper bone development. When we don't get enough calcium in the diet, the parathyroid secretes a hormone that takes calcium from the bones so that it will be available in the blood for the important functions of nerve conduction and muscle contraction.

Thymus Gland

The thymus gland is situated behind the sternum in the center of the chest. It is especially important before puberty for its role in the developing immune system. White blood cells are activated by the thymus and thus develop into "T" cells. The thymus also secretes hormones that stimulate and strengthen the immune system. After puberty the thymus gland shrinks and may even atrophy. Vitamins C, E, and B6 are important for the thymus, as are antioxidants and the minerals zinc and selenium.

Adrenal Glands

There are two adrenal glands, one sitting atop each kidney. The adrenals secrete about 50 different hormones including adrenaline and cortisone. The hormones from the adrenal glands control energy output and help us deal with stress. They also produce sex hormones in small amounts—important for later years when the sex glands decrease or cease their production. The adrenals need vitamins A, C and B-complex. In fact, the adrenal glands have the highest concentration of vitamin C in the body. Licorice root has been used by herbalists for many years for adrenal support. Low energy can result if the adrenal glands do not receive the nutrition they need.

Pancreas

As previously mentioned, the pancreas is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. It secretes insulin which helps glucose move from the blood into the cells where it is needed for energy. The pancreas also secretes glucagon when the blood sugar is low to stimulate the liver to release glucose, stored in the liver as glycogen, into the bloodstream.

Gonads

The gonads refer to the ovaries in females and the testes in males. Both produce the same hormones but in different amounts. These hormones are responsible for sexual characteristics and include estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Nutritional Support for the Glandular System

In addition to vitamin C and the other antioxidant vitamins such as E and beta-carotene, many trace minerals are essential for the nutritional support of all the body's glands. Zinc is especially important for many glands. Alfalfa and kelp are rich in trace minerals and are often used to nutritionally support the glandular system. Kelp is particularly rich in iodine, important for the thyroid gland.
Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is an important adaptogenic herb which helps normalize the glandular system—bringing it back toward a state of balance.
Other herbs for the glandular system are mentioned below, both individually and with regard to herbal and vitamin combinations that have been formulated by herbal experts to nutritionally support the various endocrine glands. Because of the synergistic effects of herbs, intelligently formulated herbal and vitamin combinations usually yield better results than using single herbs alone.
Licorice root, which is well recognized for its benefits for the adrenal glands, is included in this important vitamin and herb formulation.

Menopause

Menopause refers to the time in a woman's life marked by the permanent cessation of menstrual activity. It can occur between 25 and 58 years of life. The menses may stop suddenly, but usually there is a gradual decrease each month until final cessation occurs; or in many cases the interval between periods gradually becomes longer until complete cessation occurs. Natural menopause occurs in 25% of women by age 47, in 50% by age 50, 75% by age 52 and 95% by age 55. Menopause due to surgical removal of the ovaries occurs in almost 30% of U.S. women past the age of 50.
Menopause may be accompanied by hot and cold flashes, feelings of weakness, irritability, and in some cases mental depression. These changes are brought about by a natural decline in the secretion of hormones by the woman's body. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the medical treatment for these symptoms. When done right, HRT can greatly decrease these undesirable symptoms. However, most doctors routinely prescribe powerful synthetic hormones such as Premarin that lead to many undesirable side effects. About nine million women now use Premarin for hormone (estrogen) replacement. While some women appear to do fine on the drug, others experience problems, and all experience an increased risk for certain types of cancer.
Premarin is derived from the urine of pregnant mares. There are over 50 horse estrogens in Premarin—not one of which is naturally found in a woman's body. To manufacture the drug, between 75,000 and 85,000 mares are kept on some 500 farms in North Dakota and Canada. To collect their urine, these mares are confined in stalls throughout the duration of their pregnancy. Water is restricted because a concentrated urine is desired. Exercise is also denied. As soon as they give birth, they are immediately impregnated again.
Premarin production is bad news for the mares that "donate" it. Many women, particularly those who have experienced its undesirable side effects, have concluded that it may not be the best choice for them either. Some of the potential side-effects of HRT with drugs such as Premarin are:

Depression Headaches or Migraines Breast tenderness Hair loss Nausea or vomiting Unusual vaginal bleeding Jaundice		Candidiasis (systemic yeast infections) Weight gain Loss of libido (sexual drive) Blood clots Increased risk of gall bladder disease Increased risk of uterine and breast cancer

Phytoestrogens Offer Women Drug-Free Support

Phyto- is from the Greek phyton meaning plant. A phytoestrogen is a naturally-occurring plant nutrient that exerts an estrogen-like action on the body. Scientists have discovered hundreds of phytoestrogens including soybeans, whole grain cereals, seeds (especially flax), nuts (especially walnuts) and many herbs.
Medical research has demonstrated numerous benefits associated with phytoestrogens. In a study published in the journal Menopause, for example, half the women who participated ate a diet rich in phytoestrogens such as soybeans and flax seeds, while half ate a standard diet. In the group that ate the phytoestrogen-rich diet, the menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, decreased significantly. (4:2 (SUM 1997):89-94)
In a study conducted at the Bowman Gray School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, researchers found a significant reduction in menopausal hot flashes when women supplemented their diets with soy. When presenting their findings at the American Heart Association's annual scientific sessions, a spokesperson for the research group noted that Japanese women, who consume relatively high amounts of soy, report only one-eighth as many menopausal symptoms as American women. (United Press, Nov. 10, 1996)
 The major phytonutrients that have been studied for their estrogen-like activity are two classes of nutrients known as isoflavonoids (most notably genistein and daidzien, from soybeans) and lignans (from nuts and flax seeds.) These nutrients are converted by the flora, the beneficial bacteria of the digestive tract, into compounds that have estrogen-like actions. To derive the most benefit from these phytonutrients the flora of the intestinal tract must be in a healthy balance. Unfortunately, the intestinal flora is killed off by many drugs that women commonly use, especially antibiotics and birth control pills. (See article on yeast infections.)
Herbalists have discovered that many of the herbs traditionally used by women for the health concerns unique to women contain some of the highest amounts of these beneficial phytonutrients. The list includes black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), dong quai (Angelica sinensis), red clover (Trifolium pratense), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), wild American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), Kudzu root (Puerariae lobata), and many others. Mexican wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is not a phytoestrogen but contains a phytonutrient that is a precursor for progesterone, which is also important for balancing a women's glandular system.

Phytoestrogens Reduce Risk for Cancer

In a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives (103;Suppl 7:103-112;1995), researchers reported that, in addition to their benefits for the glandular system, phytoestrogens have been shown to have antioxidant activity and can influence intracellular enzymes, protein synthesis, growth factor action, and cell proliferation in a way that makes them "strong candidates for a role as natural cancer-protective compounds." The authors point out that countries or regions that consume the highest amounts of phytoestrogens also tend to have the lowest cancer rates. In another study published in the Journal of Epidemiology (Sept. 97) foods high in phytoestrogens were found to have a protective effect against endometrial cancer. In this nine-year study involving over 800 women, those who ate a diet rich in phytoestrogens showed a 54 percent reduction in the incidence of this cancer.

Phytoestrogens Reduce Risk for Stroke

Stroke is the third most common cause of death for middle-aged and older women. A 50-year-old women has about a one in five chance of suffering a stroke in her remaining lifetime. One of the most common causes of stroke is blockage due to atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries in the neck—the arteries responsible for a major portion of the blood flow to the brain. A team of medical researchers has reported to the American Heart Association's Annual Conference of Cardiovascular Disease that the phytoestrogens in soy protein can reduce a woman's risk for stroke by preventing a plasma lipid profile that can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Phytoestrogens Offer Alternatives to Drugs Like Premarin!

Many women have discovered a better way, using a natural nutritional approach for the changes that accompany menopause. Several of the herbs that have proven to be the most useful are discussed below: Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is probably the most widely-used herb for female concerns—from dysmenorrhea or difficult menstruation to menopause—and with good reason for the research supporting the benefits of this herb is substantial. Black Cohosh is native to Eastern North America and has been valued by Native Americans and American colonists alike for the nutritional support of the female reproductive system, particularly to relieve menstrual cramps, aid amenorrhea and to ease labor. It was also used for fever, sore throat, bronchitis, hysteria, itch, lumbago, malaria, nervous disorders, snakebite, uterine disorders, St. Vitus' dance (chorea) and yellow fever.
The German Commission E (the German equivalent of the FDA) approved black cohosh for dysmenorrhea or painful menstruation. The herb is widely used in Europe for the treatment of PMS and for juvenile menstrual problems and even as a support for women who have had a hysterectomy. Black cohosh is considered an emmenogogue, or a substance that promotes menstrual flow, but it is also successfully used by women with excessive menstrual flow, since it has a balancing effect on a woman's glandular system.
No adverse drug interactions have been identified with black cohosh. The herb has even been used in conjunction with conventional estrogen replacement therapy without any problems. In fact, studies indicate that black cohosh may actually reduce some of the negative side effects associated with conventional drug estrogen replacement therapy, including increased risk for cancer.
In a study of estrogen-dependent cancer, black cohosh extract was administered along with the cancer drug Tamoxifen. The herb appeared to work synergistically with the cancer drug to help block the proliferation of breast cancer cells. The combined effect was greater than the sum of the effects of each substance alone (Nesselhut et al. 1998).
The constituents of black cohosh do not enter into breast milk. There are no contraindications for lactation nor any problems found for nursing children.
Effects on the nervous system: Black cohosh binds to serotonin receptors in the brain which may be helpful for individuals suffering from depression. One study of over 900 peri-, pre- and post-menopausal women with mood disorders found a synergistic effect between black cohosh and St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), the herb most commonly used by individuals suffering from mild depression. (Liske et al. 1997)

Other Herbs:

Dong Quai, pronounced "don kwy," root (Angelica sinensis) is one of China's most popular herbs for women. It has traditionally been used for menopause, hot flashes, as a natural estrogen and hormone balancer, and for nervousness and spasms. The plant's root, which has a vitamin E content that actually outranks that of wheat germ, is the part used. Dong quai is also a natural source of iron and cobalt.
Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) is also known to nourish the female reproductive system. Not to be confused with tuberous sweet potato yam, wild yam is widely used in the world today to supply nutrients essential for optimal glandular function. It nutritionally benefits the urinary, nervous and respiratory systems as well. Wild yam was commonly called Colic root and Rheumatism root a hundred years ago in America. It is also used in Chinese herbal medicine. It has traditionally been used for hot flashes, irritability, depression, insomnia, and for other symptoms of menopause.
Red Raspberry leaves (Rubus idaeus) have been used throughout pregnancy by women for many years to facilitate delivery, prevent miscarriage, and alleviate morning sickness. It has also been used by men, women, and children as a remedy for diarrhea.

Herbs Particularly Beneficial for Men

Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition among men over age 40. It is a benign swelling or enlargement of the prostate gland due to certain hormonal changes in the body. Since the prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine flows as it passes from the bladder to the outside, swelling of the prostate can cause such urinary symptoms as decreased urinary flow rate, trouble emptying the bladder, and increased frequency of urination (having to go to the bathroom repeatedly through the night for example.)
Several herbs have been used to help alleviate the symptoms of BPH. The most notable of these are Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) and pygeum (Prunus africanum). The concentrated form of these herbs is the most desirable form. It should be noted that research indicates that it may take from three to four months for the prostate swelling to go down so immediate results should not be expected.
There is also some evidence that stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) may help with prostate problems. In fact, stinging nettle has a long history of use for men's problems in Europe.
Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca), as its scientific name implies, has also been used traditionally to increase libido (sex drive) for both men and women. It might also prove helpful with infertility for both men and women.
Yohimbe bark (Pausinystalia yohimbe) and Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides) are two herbs that have traditionally been used to help men with sex problems. Evidence of their efficacy has been confirmed by recent scientific research. Like many herbs, yohimbe and muira puama seem to work best when combined with synergistic herbs, so these two are combined with other promising ingredients, including damiana, horny goat weed (Epimedium sagittatum), and the amino acid l-arginine.

Conclusion

The glandular system consists of the endocrine glands: the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, thymus gland, sex glands (ovaries and testes), the pancreas, hypothalamus and adrenal glands. These all work together in monitoring the body's various functions, continuously making adjustments as needed. The hypothalamus, located in the brain in close association with the pituitary gland, is the link between the endocrine and nervous systems.
The glands produce and excrete chemical substances into the blood known as hormones. Hormones regulate basic drives and emotions, promote growth and sexual identity, control body temperature, assist in the repair of damaged tissues, and help generate energy.
The glandular system functions properly when it has ample stores of minerals—particularly trace minerals. The thyroid gland, for example, is able to maintain proper metabolic rates and body fluid levels when it has ample iodine. A similar need has been established for chromium in the pancreas in its control of blood sugar levels.
Nutritional supplements rich in trace minerals, when taken with a well-balanced diet, can help ensure that the glandular system gets the nutritional elements it needs to function properly.
 

Anatomy of the Urinary System

The urinary system consists of the two kidneys, the bladder and the adjoining tubes. Urine produced in the kidneys passes through the ureters to the bladder where it is stored until it is evacuated. It is then expelled from the body through a single tube called the urethra.
The kidneys are the filters of the blood. Every minute, one-fourth of the body's blood—approximately 1200 ml—passes through the kidneys. Each kidney is composed of about one million microscopic filters called nephrons. These nephrons are responsible for eliminating toxins and waste materials from the blood, and for maintaining the electrolyte balance by selectively eliminating some electrolytes while retaining others, according to the body's needs. The kidneys also help regulate other bodily functions by secreting the hormones renin, erythropoietin, and prostaglandins. Renin helps control blood pressure and erythropoietin stimulates the body to produce more red blood cells.

Urinary Tract Disease

Urinary tract disease can be caused by many factors. The most common urinary problems are urinary tract stones, urinary tract infections, and incontinence. Damage to the kidneys can also be caused by the harmful effects of certain diseases, such as diabetes; and by the actions of some drugs, such as ibuprofen. Severe kidney damage can result in a condition known as uremia [urea-, urine + -emia, blood]. This is a toxic condition produced by the retention of the substances which the kidneys normally excrete from the body. The medical treatment for uremia is hemodialysis, also referred to as dialysis, in which the individual is connected to an "artificial kidney" that filters the blood.
Many urinary problems can cause blood to appear in the urine—a condition which is referred to as hematuria [hema-, blood + -uria, urine]. This can be quite frightening, but one should realize that even a small amount of blood can cause the entire toilet bowl contents to appear to be full of blood.

Urinary Tract Stones

Urinary tract stones result from the crystalization of minerals—most commonly calcium—in the urinary system. These stones usually begin in a kidney. Even though 70% of kidney stones contain calcium, dietary intake of calcium is NOT usually the problem and reducing your intake of calcium is not recommended due to the importance of this mineral to your health. (An exception is the calcium-containing antacids which CAN cause urinary stones. We will discuss this further in the lesson on the digestive system.) Many kidney stones can be passed out of the body with the urine. This process is usually very painful. The pain associated with kidney stones often comes in waves and stops immediately once the stone is passed. Unless there is an infection there is rarely a need for medical intervention. There are some herbal remedies, however, that can help the stones pass more easily, and preventative measures should certainly be followed to prevent a reoccurrence.

 Kidney stones do not always require medical intervention. But occasionally a stone can block the urine flow leading to an elevated fever and infection causing an emergency situation where medical attention should be sought immediately.
Calcium-containing stones are most commonly caused by glandular imbalances, dehydration, or a diet rich in oxalic acid. Foods rich in oxalic acid include spinach, rhubarb, and coffee. Heavy consumption of coffee is a common contributing factor to stone formation. In addition, many of us do not drink the eight glasses of water that we need each day. This is probably the greatest contributing factor to urinary tract stones.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTI's) account for 6 million health care visits annually in the United States alone. These infections can involve any part of the urinary system and can be associated with bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Bacteria, especially the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterium, are by far the most common organisms found in UTI's. Women suffer from UTI's more often than men because their urethra is shorter allowing organisms to more easily enter the urinary tract. The symptoms of UTI's can include frequent urination, burning, fever, discomfort in the lower abdomen, and frequent urination at night. UTI's are more common during pregnancy, when urinary tract stones are present, and in men who have prostate problems. (More on the prostate later.)

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence refers to the loss of urine without voluntary control. It has been estimated that 20% of the elderly and 50% of nursing home residents suffer from this condition. In fact, urinary incontinence is one of the most common reasons why elderly people are put in nursing homes. Stress and urge incontinence are the two most common types. In stress incontinence, a small amount of urine is involuntarily released by coughing, laughing, or straining as when lifting a heavy object. This type is commonly seen in post-menopausal women, after pregnancy, and in men after prostatic surgery.
About 70% of urinary incontinence is of the urge type, where uncontrollable bladder contractions lead to a need to urinate accompanied by an inability to hold the urine. The causes include neurological problems such as strokes, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, bladder or pelvic tumors, U

Preventative and Conservative Care for the Urinary System

Kidney Stones

There appears to be some hereditary component to the development of urinary tract stones. If kidney stones run in your family, you should moderate or eliminate coffee consumption and drink plenty of pure water each day. Kidney stones are more common in hot climates due to water loss through perspiration and are more common in men than in women. Typically, the person with kidney stones sweats a lot and produces little urine. Since there is little urine, the urine that is produced is highly concentrated increasing the likelyhood that stones will develop. Drinking the recommended eight glasses of pure water each day is one of the best preventative measures you can take to prevent this problem.

Urinary Tract Infections

Women experience UTI's more frequently than men. The E. coli bacterium, one of the most common bacteria of the colon and the most frequent pathogen found in UTI's, can travel more easily up the shorter urethra of women. To prevent the spread of E. coli from the colon to the urinary tract, women should wipe themselves from front to back after urinating rather than from back to front. Individuals who experience recurrent and persistent urinary tract infections may unknowingly be suffering from a systemic candida infection. Candida albicans is a parasitic opportunistic yeastlike fungus that is found in the mouth, skin, intestinal tract, and vagina of all individuals. Ordinarily, the growth of this fungus is kept in check by the beneficial flora (bacteria) of the body and by the immune system. Individuals with a weakened immune system, and particularly those who have taken antibiotic drugs (which kill the beneficial flora) may develop an overgrowth of this fungus throughout the body. This can result in a myriad of health problems, including frequent urinary tract infections. (For more on Candida see Candida Control.)

Nutritional Support for the Urinary System

Most people have heard about the benefits of cranberry for the urinary system, especially for urinary tract infections. The scientific community has taken a closer look and is now in agreement with long-known folk wisdom. About a decade ago a preliminary study was published in The Journal of Urology (vol. 131, no. 5). Dr. Anthony Sobota of Youngstown State University (Ohio) identified a special factor in the juice that seemed to make harmful bacteria less likely to cling to the surface of cells in the urinary tract. Another study reviewed in the Journal of the American Medical Association (vol. 271, no. 10, March 9, 1994, pp. 751-754) concluded that cranberry juice does indeed have substances which alter the bacteria population in urine. Even though medical research has confirmed that cranberry juice can help prevent UTI's, the effect of cranberry juice alone is weak and will probably have little effect on an infection that is already in progress. Furthermore, the cranberry juice that is most commonly available is the "cocktail" variety which is watered down and heavily sweetened. Most people will find this "cranberry juice cocktail" to be of little use when trying to deal with UTI's.
Cranberry juice will be much more helpful when it is concentrated and taken without the added sugar (or corn sweetners.)
Another effective natural home remedy for UTI's is canned asparagus. This can be very helpful in even the most stubborn cases. A 12 oz. can of asparagus should be consumed—along with the juice—every day until the symptoms disappear. Asparagus, by the way, is approved by the German equivalent of the U.S. FDA for the treatment of urinary tract infections.
There are many other herbs that have been traditionally used with UTI's and other urinary problems:
Parsley herb (Petroselinum sativum) is a bitter aromatic herb with mild diuretic properties.
Juniper berries, from the evergreen juniper shrub which grows widely throughout the Northern Hemisphere, is another herb with diuretic properties.
Golden seal root (Hydrastis canadensis) is a native North American bitter herb with many health benefits including tonic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial.
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is a mucilaginous herb that is used for both the respiratory and urinary systems. Its high mucilage content makes it appropriate for soothing mucus membranes, such as an irritated throat or chest due to coughs, emphysema, and other lung problems. For the urinary tract it is especially helpful in removing stones and gravel. It "coats" the stones allowing them to pass more easily
Hydrangea root (Hydrangea arborescens) is a bitter herb that has been traditionally used to relieve inflamed or enlarged prostate, for urinary stones or gravel associated with infections, for arthritis, gout, and for bladder problems. Hydrangia root is antilithic, which means that it dissolves urinary stones and prevents the formation of new ones. Herbalists recommend taking three capsules, four times a day, to dissolve kidney stones.
Uva ursi leaves (Arctostaphylos uva ursi), also known as bearberry, contain an antiseptic substance known as arbutin. This herb has astringent, diuretic and tonic effects and helps reduce the accumulation of uric acid. It has been used by herbalists for chronic cystitis (bladder infections) and to ease the pain from uriniary stones or gravel.
Cornsilk (Zea mays)—the silky tassel inside the corn husk—is highly valued in herbology for urinary system support. After the corn plant has shed its pollen, the silk is gathered and dried, then powdered for various uses including chronic urinary tract problems and prostate problems. It has been used for kidney, bladder and for bedwetting.

Part 2, The Prostate Gland

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland (normally 3.5-4.0 cm) that surrounds the neck of the bladder and the urethra in males only. The prostate secretes a thin, opalescent fluid during ejaculation that makes up part of the semen. This fluid can be thought of as the liquid in which the sperm cells "swim." Prostate problems are often without pain, but when pain does occur due to the prostate gland it is often felt at the anus and may occur after ejaculation. The prostate gland may also refer pain to the low back but this is not usual with the most common prostate problems, including benign prostatic hyperplasia or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Side View of the Male Pelvis (Normal Prostate Gland):

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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common conditions affecting men over the age of 50. At about the age of 40 to 45, the prostate gland starts becoming progressively enlarged. This can result in restriction of urinary flow and symptoms such as dysuria (difficulty or pain during urination), increased urinary frequency (having to urinate often), urgency (the need to "go" now!), hesitancy (trouble starting urination), decreased pressure behind the stream, and nocturia (the need to go often during the night.) If BPH persists or becomes severe, it can result in stasis of the urine leading to urinary tract infections and possibly damage to the kidneys. More often, BPH is just a nuisance, interfering with quality of life and disturbing normal sleep. BPH rarely improves spontaneously, it usually either remains the same for years or gradually gets worse.

Conventional Medical Therapy

Medical studies have shown that one of the major triggering factors for BPH is dihydrotestosterone, which is produced from the male hormone testosterone by the action of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Compounds that inhibit this enzyme can be expected to have a beneficial effect on BPH. One such compound is the drug finasteride (Proscar). Unfortunately, clinical studies have found this drug to be only marginally effective.^1,2 In addition, the drug has some undesirable side-effects. For example, it causes impotence in about 4 percent of the men who take it. Terazosin, a blood pressure-lowering drug, has been found to relieve the symptoms of BPH is some cases. However this drug does not slow the progression of the condition and is also not without undesirable side-effects.
Prostate surgery (transurethral resection of the prostate or TURP) is still considered the "treatment of choice" by many urologists. However, prostate surgery carries its own risks including possible perforation of the bladder, infection, hemorrhage, persistent urinary incontinence, and even permanent impotency. Furthermore, the surgery is not always effective.

Natural Alternatives

Fortunately there are natural remedies that provide safe, effective, and inexpensive alternatives for men with BPH.

Saw Palmetto Berries

Saw palmetto berries come from the saw palmetto bush (Serenoa repens), which is indigenous to Florida and North Carolina. It is the therapy most frequently prescribed by medical doctors in France for the treatment of BPH. Saw palmetto was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia as early as 1905 and has been used safely for many decades.
     Saw Palmetto     
Recent studies including a double-blind study³ have shown that an extract of saw palmetto berries inhibits 5-alpha-reductase more effectively than finasteride. In addition, saw palmetto berries did not result in side-effects and did not cause any changes in standard blood chemistry measurements. ^{3, 4, 5, 6}

Pygeum

Pygeum (Prunus africana) is an evergreen tree that grows in Africa. The bark of the tree has been used for years by natives of tropical Africa to treat urinary disorders. Although it is not certain what the active ingredients are, some of the compounds found in Pygeum bark exert anti-inflammatory effects, while others are thought to influence testosterone metabolism.
In one double-blind study an extract of Pygeum (200mg/day for 2 months) was significantly more effective than placebo with respect to urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, and urinary flow rate.⁷ Numerous other open and controlled studies have confirmed its effectiveness as a treatment of BPH.⁸

Zinc

Zinc supplements have also been shown to improve urinary symptoms and reduce the size of the prostate both in men with BPH⁹ and in animal studies.¹⁰

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is an herb with a long history of use among men in Africa and Europe. It is recognized by most herbalists for its diuretic action. In Germany, where herbal medicine is more mainstream than it is in the United States, physicians prescribe nettle in the treatment of high blood pressure. One German study suggests stinging nettle might also relieve symptoms of BPH.¹¹

A Word or Two About Prostate Cancer and Its Prevention

Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer in men. Only lung and colorectal cancers rank higher in terms of incidence and morbidity. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute concluded that men who consumed more than 30 grams of saturated fat a day—mostly from meat and dairy products—had twice the risk of prostate cancer than did men who ate less than 11 grams of saturated fat a day. No other dietary factor has been shown to have such a significant correlation with prostate cancer. The authors of the study recommended that men aim for 10 grams or less of saturated fat a day as a preventative measure.¹³
Another study of deaths from prostate cancer in 59 countries showed a strong correlation between diet and prostatic cancer. Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Medical School reported that diets relatively high in meats, milk and poultry seem to lead to a greater incidence of prostatic cancer than those consisting of grains, nuts, fish and soy.¹⁴
There may be a correlation between a low fiber diet and prostatic cancer. Sufficient dietary intake of fiber may prove to be beneficial for preventing prostate cancer, as has proven to be the case in certain other forms of cancer.

Conclusion to Part II

Research has shown that Saw palmetto berries, Pygeum, and zinc can be used safely and effectively by men with BPH. According to Alan R. Gaby, M.D., "In my experience, at least two-thirds of men with symptoms of BPH find gratifying and long-lasting relief when they follow a natural treatment program for BPH that includes some or all of these substances. Because of its low risk of side effects and high success rate, this nutritional/herbal approach should be considered the 'treatment of choice' for BPH."¹²
Immediate results should not be expected when using the natural approach. Most research indicates that at least a two month trial is necessary before determining if the natural approach is best. A healthy diet consisting of plenty of fruits and vegetables and a reduction of dietary intake of saturated fats may also prove helpful with prostate problems. A moderate regular exercise routine such as daily walking may also be beneficial.
Whereas the medical approaches to prostate problems, including the drugs prescribed for prostate conditions, often interfere with sexual performance; the herbal and nutritional approache usually has the opposite effect. In other words, the natural approaches generally enhance sexual performance and enjoyment.

Conclusion to Lesson 13

Our urinary system passes the blood through a filtration process so the body can maintain a clean supply of fluids. This system is also responsible for maintaining the important sodium-potassium balance in and around our cells necessary for a high level of healthy energy. The kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra comprise the urinary system. Because the urethra in men passes through the prostate, and since the prostate gland can cause urinary problems, it too is often considered a part of the urinary system in men. Herbal food supplements, vitamins and minerals can help provide the urinary system with the nutrients it needs to effectively perform its delicate job.

If you have two or more of the following indications, you may consider nutritional aid to the urinary system:

Body odor and/or bad breath Monthly female concerns Bags under eyes Skin/complexion problems		Frequent urination or urinary concerns Dry, damaged or dull hair Weak bones, teeth or cartilage

Lifestyle Suggestions:

• Drink 12-16 cups of pure water daily
• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables especially asparagus
• Personal hygiene (Women after urinating wipe from front to back only insted of back to front)
• Avoid antibiotics if possible
• Eat natural yogurt 

The Structural System

 The structural system is composed of hair, skin, nails and the various other connective tissues—including bone, cartilage and fibrous tissues—that give strength, shape and support to the body. The joints and muscles of the structural system make locomotion possible. The structural system also affords protection to the delicate structures of the body. The skull and spine, for example, protect the brain and spinal chord. The ribs protect the vital organs of the chest—the heart and lungs.

Anatomy

Bones

There are 206 bones in the human skeleton. The different types of bone include short bones, long bones, irregular bones and flat bones. The general structure of nearly all bones consists of a dense, hard tissue surrounding spongy tissue that contains many blood vessels and nerves. Long bones, such as the femur of the thigh and the humerus of the arm, contain yellow marrow in the long spaces and red marrow in the ends near the joints. The red marrow is also found in the short bones, the vertebrae (backbones), and in the skull, sternum and ribs. The red marrow is where blood cells are formed. When people think of bones, they usually think of the dried specimens seen in school libraries and museums. Living bone, however, is quite different, being much more pliable and quite vascular. Living bone contains many blood vessels and nerves and is constantly changing or remodeling. Osteoblasts, bone cells that lay down new bone, are continuously working in balance with osteoclasts, bone cells that break down bone. This constantly changes the shape and density of our bones to meet the changing demands of life. That is why astronauts who spend many hours in zero gravity must regularly perform exercises to keep their bones strong. Dense bones are not needed in zero gravity, so when astronauts don't perform weight-bearing exercises, their osteoclasts become more active than their osteoblasts and their bones become weaker.
Bones are made up of minerals, mostly calcium, on a protein (collagen) matrix. Calcium is the primary mineral that keeps our bones strong. Ninety-nine percent of the calcium in the body is stored in the bones and teeth. The remaining 1% is in the blood and soft tissues. This 1% is extremely important however. Without it our muscles (including the heart) wouldn't contract properly and our nerves (including the brain) wouldn't function. This calcium is also necessary for the blood to clot. This 1% in the blood must be maintained at all costs, and the body will do anything necessary to keep it, including pulling the calcium from the bones when necessary. This is what happens when we don't get enough calcium in our diet.

Cartilage

Cartilage, commonly called gristle, is a dense, rubbery connective tissue which connects and cushions the bones and gives support and shape to rigid structures such as the ear, nose and windpipe. Cartilage is composed of specialized cells, called chondrocytes, surrounded by a gelatinous matrix of collagen, a tough protein. Just as there are different types of bone, there are also different types of cartilage. For example, hyaline cartilage is the connective tissue that covers the moving ends of bones. A characteristic of cartilage is that it tends to harden with age. This is due to cross linkages in its microscopic matrix, caused mainly by free radical damage, and is one of the reasons that free radical scavengers, or antioxidants, are purported to slow down some of the effects of aging.

Muscles

Muscle tissue is a special type of tissue that has the ability to contract, usually as a result of a stimulus from a nerve. The three types of muscles are smooth, cardiac and skeletal. Smooth muscle is found in the lining of organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and is responsible for involuntary movement—movement that we do not have conscious control over. Cardiac muscle is a special kind of involuntary muscle found only in the heart and is responsible for pumping the blood through the body. The most abundant type of muscle is skeletal muscle, which is responsible for voluntary movements such as walking and talking. Some of the major skeletal muscles are illustrated below:

Muscles can only contract and relax. They do not forcefully expand. Opposing movements, such as flexion and extension of the arm, are performed by the actions of opposing muscle groups located on either side of the joint. The biceps muscle of the inside of the arm, for example, is responsible for the flexion or bending of the elbow (bringing the bones closer together), while the triceps muscle, located on the back side of the arm, is responsible for the extension of the elbow (straightening out the arm.)

Muscles

Muscle tissue is a special type of tissue that has the ability to contract, usually as a result of a stimulus from a nerve. The three types of muscles are smooth, cardiac and skeletal. Smooth muscle is found in the lining of organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and is responsible for involuntary movement—movement that we do not have conscious control over. Cardiac muscle is a special kind of involuntary muscle found only in the heart and is responsible for pumping the blood through the body. The most abundant type of muscle is skeletal muscle, which is responsible for voluntary movements such as walking and talking. Some of the major skeletal muscles are illustrated below:

Muscles can only contract and relax. They do not forcefully expand. Opposing movements, such as flexion and extension of the arm, are performed by the actions of opposing muscle groups located on either side of the joint. The biceps muscle of the inside of the arm, for example, is responsible for the flexion or bending of the elbow (bringing the bones closer together), while the triceps muscle, located on the back side of the arm, is responsible for the extension of the elbow (straightening out the arm.)

Joints

Movement is also made possible by the joints. Joints refer to the regions of the body where two or more bones come together, usually for the purpose of motion. Some joints, like those in the cranium, or skull, allow very little movement; while other joints, like the elbow and knee, allow a great deal of movement. Ball and socket joints, like the shoulder and hip, allow movement in many different directions. Hinge joints, like the elbow, knee, and finger joints, allow for movement in one plane only. The purpose of joints is to allow the movement of bones. But bones and joints can not move themselves. They are moved by the contractions of muscles which attach to the bones and cross the joints. Excessive movement, which could dislocate a joint, is prevented by ligaments—strong elastic connective tissues that cross the joint. If a joint is forcefully extended beyond its normal range of motion one or more ligaments can tear resulting in a sprain.
In freely movable joints, the areas of bone that rub against each other are covered with a smooth cartilage and are lubricated by synovial fluid. These joints are known as snovial joints. The synovial fluid is contained in a capsule, formed by ligaments, which surrounds the joint. The synovial fluid is secreted by special cells which lie on the inside of the capsule. Synovial fluid is also produced in membranous sacs, known as bursae, which cushion areas where muscles and tendons rub against bones. When bursae become inflammed due to overuse or misalignment, a painful condition known as bursitis (-itis = inflammation) can result.

Skin, Hair and Nails

The skin is the largest organ of the body, providing a protective barrier and the first line of defense against would-be invaders. The skin also contains nerves and sensory organs involved with touch; and blood vessels and sweat glands that help regulate body temperature. The outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis, is several cells thick and has an external layer of dead cells that is constantly being sloughed off and replaced from below by a basal layer of living cells. The inner layer, or dermis, is composed of a network of collagen and elastic fibers, nerves, blood vessels, fat lobules, and the bases of sweat glands and hair follicles. Each square inch of skin contains hundreds of sweat glands that are controlled by the temperature regulation area of the brain. The sweat glands secrete moisture, which cools the body surface through the process of evaporation, helping to maintain the normal body temperature. Through the sweat glands the skin acts as an excretory organ.
In certain areas of the body the outer layers of the skin are modified to produce hair and nails. The hair, nails and epidermis of the skin all contain a fibrous protein called keratin, which is responsible for their form and strength.
The rate of growth of the hair varies with age, sex, and the length of the hair. When it is short, hair grows about 3/4 inches a month (about 2 cm.) When it is a foot long its rate of growth is reduced to about half that. Women between the ages of 16 and 24 experience the fastest rate of hair growth.

When Something Goes Wrong

Fractures A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. A simple, or closed, fracture is one that is not visible on the surface. A compound, or open, fracture involves a rupture to the skin, possibly revealing a part of the bone. The symptoms of fracture are severe pain, tenderness and swelling. When the ends of the fractured bone are misaligned they must be realigned, or set, otherwise the bone will heal with a deformity. This is called reducing a fracture. It takes about six weeks for a broken bone to heal completely.		Sodas and the Bones: A Harvard study of teenage girls, published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine (June 2000), found that carbonated beverages, particularly colas, may weaken bone structure. Broken bones occurred three times more often in ninth and tenth-grade girls who drank any kind of soda routinely, and five times more often in girls who drank colas. The researchers suggested that the phosphoric acid found in sodas may weaken bones.

Strain/Sprain

A strain involves the tearing of a muscle, while a sprain involves the tearing of a ligament of a joint. Both are referred to as soft tissue injuries to differentiate them from a fracture, or an injury to a bone. Strains and sprains can involve a rupture, in which the tissue is torn completely in two, but incomplete tears are by far the most common. Some soft tissue injuries are referred to as strain/sprains because they involve tearing of both muscle and ligament. Strains are characterized by pain, swelling, and tenderness of the injured muscle. Sprains are characterized by pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the injured joint. The most frequently sprained joints are the ankle, knee, and wrist. Severe strains and sprains, or ruptures, should be treated like a fracture by a health professional. Mild to moderate strains and sprains can usually be effectively treated at home. To remember how to treat a mild to moderate strain or sprain, remember the acronym RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression (lightly wrapping the injured area with a bandage, being careful not to cut off the circulation), and Elevation, raising the injured area, preferably above the heart, to help reduce pain and swelling. Heat should never be applied to an acute strain or sprain. Heat may be used after the swelling has gone down, usually after several days, but initially ice should be used.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, also known as fibromyositis and myofascial pain syndrome, refers to a chronic condition of unknown cause resulting in pain in the fibrous tissues, muscles, ligaments and tendons. It is characterized by achy pain, tenderness and stiffness of the muscles, particularly those of the occiput (the base of the head), neck, shoulders, back and thighs. The pain is aggravated by overuse, straining, and by stress. The condition occurs mainly in women. Fibromyalgia is often associated with depression, sleeping problems, and chronic fatigue. In fact, most experts consider fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome to be the same condition. It is also sometimes associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Many health experts believe that many, if not most, cases of fibromyalgia are caused by an underactive thyroid gland.Arthritis (arthr-, "joint" + -itis, "inflammation") is a non-specific term referring to any type of joint inflammation. There are many different types of arthritis. The three most common ones are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (osteo-, "bone" + arthritis) is by far the most common type of arthritis. It refers to the process of degeneration to the joints caused by wear and tear. In fact, another name for osteoarthritis is degenerative joint disease (DJD). Although some degeneration to the joints is considered normal due to the normal wear and tear that comes with age, there are certain factors which can speed up the process, including excess weight, inadequate or improper nutrition, and joint misalignments. The symptoms of osteoarthritis are stiffness and pain in the joints, especially upon arising in the morning, with some relief after the body has "warmed up" or moved around a bit. The joints most commonly affected are the weight bearing joints, particularly the spine, hips and knees. X-rays of the affected joints reveal decreased joint spaces, sclerosis (hardening of the bone near the joint) and sometimes osteophyte formation or "bone spurs." Osteoarthritis of the spinal column, or spine, also results in thinning of the discs, which can result in a loss of height. The degenerative changes to the discs and bones caused by osteoarthritis of the spinal column can also result in painful nerve impingement where the nerve roots are pinched where they exit the spine. Osteoarthritis is the type of arthritis most likely to be helped with chiropractic care. There are also many things that we can do nutritionally that may help the condition. We will discuss these in a later section of this lesson.
Medical treatment for osteoarthritis generally involves a class of drugs known as non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, such as aspirin, Indocin, ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Aleve, Nuprin and Motrin) and most prescription drugs for arthritis. These drugs cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and kidney damage resulting in 2,000 deaths and 20,000 hospitalizations each year in the U.S. alone. But even worse, research has shown that by interfering at the cellular level with the metabolism responsible for rebuilding and repairing cartilage, NSAIDS actually cause degradation of joint cartilage causing further degeneration to the joints. In other words, while NSAIDS are providing temporary relief, they are actually slowly making the condition worse! The medical solution for this, of course, is to mask the pain with NSAIDS until the degeneration becomes severe enough to justify joint replacement surgery. As we shall see later, many people have discovered a better way!

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis, according to current medical thinking, is an autoimmune disease of unknown cause where the inflammation and pain in the joints is caused when the body's own immune system attacks the joints producing an inflammatory reaction. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur in the young, as well as in adults, and seems to be related to heredity. Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as the "crippling arthritis," can result in deformaties of the affected joints, most commonly the hands. Like osteoarthritis, the pain and stiffness are worse upon arising in the morning. But unlike osteoarthritis, which can be asymmetrical (one sided), rheumatoid arthritis is symmetrical (occurs equally on both sides of the body.) Rheumatoid arthritis occurs in approximately 1% of the population, whereas osteoarthritis occurs in nearly 100% of the population that lives long enough for wear and tear to become evident. Recently it has been discovered that many individuals with RA have a low grade infection in the joints—an infection which can easily be missed by routine medical diagnostic procedures. Some professionals believe that this may, in fact, be a primary causative factor in the disease. But whether such an infection is a cause or a consequence of RA has yet to be discovered.

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by uric acid deposits in the joints. The joints most likely to be affected are the great toes, although the insteps, ankles, knees, wrists and elbows are also common sites. Initially, only one joint may be affected, but in later attacks other joints may be involved as well. Gout is closely associated with diet. Attacks often occur after overindulgence in rich foods and/or after consumption of alcohol. Gout is common in alcoholics. If not treated the uric acid deposits can occur in the kidneys causing kidney damage.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, (not to be confused with osteoarthritis), is a condition of the bones rather than the joints. In the preceding discussion on the bones we saw that the calcium in the diet is necessary to keep the calcium in the bones. When there is insufficient calcium in the diet the bones will provide the body with an emergency supply. If the body continues to break down more bone than it replaces the bones will eventually become weak and break more easily. This can lead to a crippling disease known as osteoporosis. (We will discuss calcium in a later section of this lesson when we discuss nutrition for the bones.) Approximately 25 million American women have osteoporosis and one-third to one-half of all post-menopausal women will get the disease. But it doesn't just effect women. Five million American men also suffer from osteoporosis.
Women suffer from osteoporosis more than men, but men are by no means immune to the disease!
It is estimated that one-fifth to one-third of all hip fractures due to osteoporosis occur in men. In fact, one out of every two women and one out of every eight men over age 50 will have a fracture due to osteoporosis sometime during their lifetime. Before the age of 90, 6% of all men will have a hip fracture due to osteoporosis. Out of the 80,000 men who suffer a hip fracture each year, one-third will die within the year.
The preventable risk factors for osteoporosis in women and men are:

• Insufficient dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D.
• Long-term use of certain drugs, particularly the steroids used to treat asthma, arthritis, and other diseases (e.g., glucocorticoids such as prednisone); anticonvulsants and cancer treatments.
• Aluminum-containing antacids.
• Chronic diseases that affect the kidneys, lungs, stomach, and intestines or alter hormone levels.
• Glandular imbalances. Low levels of estrogen in women and low levels of testosterone in men.
• Smoking.
• Excessive alcohol intake. (Alcohol decreases absorbtion of calcium and has a direct toxic effect on osteoblasts, the cells which build new bone.)
• Insufficient physical exercise.
• Excess consumption of acid-producing foods, particularly animal protein and refined processed foods (white sugar and enriched flour products.)
• Consumption of sodas, particulary colas.

In summary, osteoporosis is not a natural part of aging. It is a preventable disease. To help prevent osteoporosis both men and women should:

• Eat a healthy diet (including plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoiding excess animal protein and refined processed foods such as white sugar and enriched flour products.)
• Supplement your diet with a quality calcium and vitamin D supplement that includes magnesium, phosphorus and boron.
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises such as walking on a regular basis.
• Support the glandular system when needed.
• Avoid drugs.
• Don't smoke.
• Limit alcohol intake to no more than two drinks a day.
• Avoid carbonated beverages, particularly colas. 

Ptosis of Organs

This refers to a common condition in which the internal organs of the abdomen and pelvis "drop" to a lower position due to the effects of gravity. This is caused by multiple factors including poor nutrition, being overweight and out of shape, and especially from poor colon health. The colon is often the most involved organ, due to the accumulations of heavy waste material from a diet that does not contain sufficient fiber. Secondary problems can occur as the weight of the organs compresses structures in the pelvic region, particularly the uterus in women and the prostate in men. Many problems, such as a "tilted uterus" are caused or aggravated by this condition. Exercises on a slant board, where the feet are elevated slightly higher than the rest of the body, are helpful, but the most important thing that can be done for this condition is cleansing and colon health maintenance. Another name for ptosis of organs is a "Prolapsed Colon".

Teeth and Gums

The teeth are actually accessory organs of the digestive system, but we mention them here because they can also be considered part of the skeletal system; and the teeth, like the bones, are made up mostly of the minerals calcium and phophorus. The health of the teeth is closely related to the health of the gums. A common condition of the gums is gingivitis [gingiva, gums + -itis, inflammation], a condition in which the gums become inflammed, red, swollen and bleeding, often as a result of poor mouth care, but also resulting from other conditions including pregnancy. Gingivitis can result from the buildup of bacterial plaque on the teeth. It may also be a sign of a vitamin deficiency. Gingivitis can result from or be aggravated by osteoporosis, in which bone loss occurs around the teeth allowing bacteria to enter causing further damage and bone loss. Gingivitis is the first sign of periodontal disease [peri-, around + odont, teeth], which is the major reason adults lose their teeth.
The health of the teeth and gums is closely related to the diet. It is important to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day, including some "crunchy" vegetables to stimulate strong bone formation around the roots of the teeth. Refined foods, such as sugar and enriched flour products, are detrimental because they produce an acid environment in the mouth and feed the bacteria that is associated with plaque and gingivitis.

Posture

Posture is an important yet often overlooked component of health. Good posture allows adequate room for the organs to function properly. It also allows normal nerve and blood flow and lymphatic dranage—all essential for health maintenance. Our muscles will shorten or lengthen to accomodate our posture, creating muscle imbalances (discussed on the following page.) Chronically poor posture, through the process of bone remodeling which we discussed in a previous section, will also result in actual changes to the shape of the skeleton. This is one reason why poor posture is such a difficult habit to break. As if that wasn't enough, conditions like osteoporosis can cause further deterioration to our posture.
Our posture is closely related to our attitude. In fact, your posture can be thought of as your attitude incarnate. Are you under stress? Do you feel like you carry the worries of the world on your shoulders? If so, your posture probably reflects it. Tall people, especially young girls, sometimes have poor posture as an unconscious attempt to appear the same height as their friends. The good news is it works both ways—not only does our posture reflect our attitude, but our attitude also reflects our posture. So one way you can improve your attitude is to work on your posture.
Our posture is also a reflection of our health in general. To correct poor posture it is therefore advisable to work on all five of the Fundamentals of Health, including rest, exercise, attitude and nutrition. Good nutrition for the skeletal system is important, as this is the system responsible for maintaining our form. Stretching exercises designed to correct muscle imbalances are helpful to lengthen the muscles that have become shortened to accomodate poor posture. Breathing exercises, like the ones taught in Yoga classes, are extremely important. I also recommend cardiovascular exercises like walking, and chiropractic care to restore normal motion to fixated or "stuck" joints. Your chiropractic doctor may also be able to recommend specific exercises to help you strenghen weak muscles related to your posture and to stretch shortened muscles correcting muscle imbalances. But just like your health in general, the primary responsibility for good posture lies with you.

Breathing, The Master Key to Self Healing

"If I had to limit my advice on healthier living to just one tip, it would be simply to learn how to breathe correctly."

Dr. Andrew Weil

Breathing exercises are also a means to better posture and attitude. Dr. Weil reports that these breathing exercises get more favorable responses from patients than anything else he teaches.

Back Pain

My experience as a doctor of chiropractic has taught me that most cases of spinal misalignment and chronic back pain are due to muscle imbalances. On the previous page we discovered that poor posture inevitably leads to muscle imbalances. But which came first? Does poor posture create muscle imbalances, or do muscle imbalances create poor posture? My experience has taught me that it is probably a little of both. But the important thing is - it doesn't matter which came first! To improve your posture and spinal alignment, and to get rid of back pain for good, the solution is to correct muscle imbalances through the correct use of specific exercises.
Here is the way Jesse Cannone, personal fitness trainer and former back pain sufferer, puts it: "What happens when you drive your car with unbalanced tires or your steering out of alignment? Your tires will wear down unevenly and quicker than normal... and eventually you'll have a blowout... the same is true for your body! It's critical for you to understand that your body alignment and mechanics are affected by your muscles and even the smallest muscle imbalance can place tremendous amounts of uneven pressure and wear and tear on your body, especially the back... What The Heck Is a Muscle Imbalance Anyway? When a muscle overpowers the opposing muscle, you have a muscle imbalance... Think Tug-of-War... When your muscles are out of balance they pull your bones and joints out of their normal position and this places your muscles, bones and joints under constant stress and uneven pressure... For example, the position and curvature of your spine is determined by numerous muscles and whether they are balanced or not... There are over 640 muscles in the human body! Nearly every muscle in the body affects your spine and if just one of these muscles are out of balance you're in trouble..."

Nutritional Support for the Structural System

Bones and Cartilage

In the previous section on osteoporosis, we discussed the causes of this potentially debilitating disease and some ways to increase our chances of avoiding it. We mentioned some lifestyle factors other than nutrition, such as exercise and smoking, and I refer you back to that section for those. In this section we will cover nutrition.

Calcium

We saw earlier that the bones are made up of minerals, primarily calcium, on a collagen (a protein) matrix. One of the most important things we can do to support the skeletal system is to get enough good-quality calcium in the diet. Calcium is not only contained in dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt, it is also found in nuts, grains, beans, dark green vegetables, and canned salmon and sardines (if you eat the bones as well). According to the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine (August 1997) the adequate calcium intake values for different ages irrespective of pregnancy or lactation in women are:

Age Group                    Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) 
0 - 6 months                    210 milligrams/day 
6 - 12 months                   270 milligrams/day 
1 - 3 years                     500 milligrams/day 
4 - 8 years                     800 milligrams/day 
9 - 18 years                  1,300 milligrams/day 
Adults 19 - 50 years          1,000 milligrams/day 
Adults 51+ years              1,200 milligrams/day 

These figures are represented on the graph below by the gray line. The actual amount of calcium that Americans consume is represented in the graph by the red line (males) and the blue line (females.) You can see that Americans fall far short when it comes to getting the recommended amount of calcium.
Do we really need that much calcium?
The above recommendations are based on the typical American diet and lifestyle, which is far too high in animal protein, dairy products, colas and caffeinated beverages; and far too low in fruits and vegetables. As we saw earlier, such a lifestyle creates a tendency for the blood pH to shift slightly toward acidic, resulting in calcium being pulled from the bones to buffer the acid in the blood, leading to excess loss of calcium through the urine. So as long as you consume dairy products, animal protein and colas; YES, you will probably need that much calcium. And you are still likely to remain at risk for osteoporosis. However, individuals who get most of their protein from plant sources like soy, and who refrain from dairy products, smoking, colas and caffeinated beverages; can probably get by with far less calcium. In the United Kingdom, for example, the recommended daily calcium intake for children ranges from 350 to 1,000 milligrams depending on age, and the recommended amount for adults is 700 milligrams. The World Health Organization recommends a daily intake of 500 milligrams for children and 800 milligrams for adults. These latter figures may be more appropriate for Americans who choose a healthier lifestyle.
Are Tums and similar antacids good courses of calcium?
The source of calcium in Tums and similar antacids is limestone (calcium carbonate). Limestone is the cheapest form of calcium available. It is very effective at neutralizing stomach acid but it is an inferior source of calcium since it is not absorbed as well as most other forms. Furthermore, because of the danger of a rebound effect from taking too many antacids, which can make a stomach problem worse, antacids should never be taken on a continual basis. Tums is therefore not a good source of calcium. Tums also does not contain Vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption and enhances the bone building process. It also does not contain magnesium, phosphorus and boron, which are necessary for healthy bone.
SmithKline Beecham, the manufacturer of Tums, argues that "healthy" individuals get enough vitamin D to make their calcium effective. One problem with this is that the individuals who are at greatest risk for calcium deficiency, and the individuals who need calcium supplementation the most, are also the individuals who are at greatest risk for vitamin D deficiency. Furthermore, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (63:354-357, 1996), additional vitamin D increases the short term absorption of calcium even in healthy individuals with no apparent vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, all good calcium supplements should not only contain quality sources of calcium, but also vitamin D and the minerals magnesium, phosphorus and boron.
Recent medical evidence suggests that taking large amounts of calcium, without vitamin D, will actually deplete the body's stores of vitamin D, causing a weakening of bone structure. Furthermore, this vitamin D deficiency can result in increased risks for certain kinds of cancers, particularly prostate cancer in men. It is therefore not only inadvisable to rely on antacids for your calcium needs—it can be downright dangerous!
Another prerequisite for calcium absorption is HCl (hydrochloric acid), which is secreted by the stomach to aid the digestion of protein. Since antacids neutralize stomach acid, they are obviously not the best choice for a calcium supplement. The antacid manufacturers point to studies that indicate that "healthy" individuals produce enough stomach acid to absorb calcium carbonate, even in the presence of antacids. The problem with this is, as is the case with vitamin D, the individuals who are at greatest risk for calcium deficiency, and the individuals who need calcium supplementation the most, are also the individuals who are at greatest risk for insufficient stomach acid! Starting at about the age of 30, stomach secretion of HCl gradually decreases. Many of the elderly are deficient in HCl production and malabsoption of nutrients, particularly calcium, is a common finding in this age group.
The Great Antacid Scam: Why do antacid manufacturers promote their products as calcium supplements? Obviously to increase sales! They have a product that should only be taken occasionally—only when needed. And just like the aspirin manufacturers, they have figured out a way to increase their sales by dupping the public into believing that they should be popping their tablets on a daily basis like a vitamin pill.
"But my doctor recommended that I take an antacid as a calcium supplement."
Doctors are also victims of the scam. You would be amazed at the advertisements for antacids that appear in the medical publications that doctors read. (The same goes for aspirin—hence, "the great aspirin scam.") The drug manufacturers figured out a long time ago that if they would target doctors with their advertising, then the doctors would pass the information on to their patients. And their patients will swallow the misinformation because it comes from a credible source—their trusted doctor. The fact is, most doctors know less about nutrition than their patients.
Are dairy products a good source of calcium?
Dairy products certainly do contain calcium. A cup of cow's milk contains about 300 milligrams. However, cow's milk was designed for calves—not humans. I do not recommend dairy products for human consumption. If they are used, they should only be used sparingly—no more then 1/2 to 1 serving per day. There are many reasons why I say that. Below I will mention just a few:
Casein, the main protein in milk, has been linked to several forms of cancer, including liver cancer. Epidemiological research suggest a correlation between milk consumption and at least two kinds of cancers common in countries that consume a lot of dairy—breast and prostate.

In the famous "Physicians' Health Study," in which researchers tracked 20,885 doctors over a 10 year period, it was discovered that those doctors who consumed at least 2 1/2 servings of dairy products per day were 30 times more likely to develop prostate cancer than doctors who consumed half a serving. Another study done in 1999, the "Health Professionals Follow-Up Study," involving nearly 50,000 individuals, found that men who consumed a lot of dairy products had a 70 percent higher risk of prostate cancer. Another large study, the 12-year "Harvard Nurses' Health Study" involving some 78,000 nurses, reported results just as shocking. This study found that the nurses who drank two or more glasses of milk a day broke more bones than the nurses who did not. The milk drinkers also had a slightly higher risk of arm fractures and a significanly higher risk of hip fractures.		The 5th edition of the "Dietary Guidelines for Americans", released by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), includes soybean-based foods as a means to meet the dietary recommendations of the Food Guide Pyramid. The guidelines provide recommendations based on current scientific knowledge about how diet may improve health and reduce risks for major chronic diseases. The new Guidelines recognize one cup of a calcium-rich soy-based beverage as equal to one serving from the dairy group, and 1/2 cup of tofu or a 2 1/2 ounce soyburger as equal to a serving in the meat and beans group.

Why is milk so touted as a calcium supplement? Because of the lobbying done by the dairy industry, and the politicians who are foolish enough to listen to them. Ironically, epidemiological studies show that the countries that consume the highest amounts of dairy products (the United States and Northern European nations) have the greatest incidence of fractures due to osteoporosis, while the countries that consume the lowest amounts (Asians and Africans) have the lowest incidence.
A good milk substitute:
I don't recommend that you stop drinking milk only to end up drinking more colas and caffeinated beverages! You will probably be doing more harm than good. There are healthy substitutes for milk, however, such as calcium-rich soy-based drinks. If you have been drinking milk all your life it might take a while to adjust your taste, but eventually you will enjoy soy-based drinks just as much as you enjoy milk now; and I believe the health benefits will certainly be worth it.
What are other good supplemental sources for calcium?
Since people vary in their ability to absorb the different forms of calcium, the best calcium supplements include not just one, but several good forms of calcium. Calcium citrate has been proven to be a superior source. Other good sources include amino acid chelate. (When a mineral is chelated with an amino acid it is highly absorbable. The minerals in our plant foods are chelated.) Another good source is calcium phosphate (or di-calcium phosphate.) The calcium in our bones is in the form of calcium phosphate. Di-calcium phosphate contains not only calcium but the important mineral phosphorus as well, and it is in a form that is easily used by the body. All calcium supplements should also include vitamin D and the other minerals important for building stong bones, like magnesium and boron. The calcium supplement that meets and exceeds these standards is Skeletal Strength.

Nutritional Support for the Muscles

Magnesium is an important mineral essential for many of the body's functions. Studies have shown that more than half of Americans do not get enough magnesium in their diets, due primarily to food processing and poor eating habits. Magnesium is essential for calcium absorption and utilization. It is also necessary for nerve and muscle function, including cardiac muscle. Research has show that low levels of magnesium are often associated with cardiovascular problems including arterial spasms and high blood pressure. Extra magnesium is often used as a natural muscle relaxer, helping reduce muscle tension and spasms. Malic Acid, found in apples and certain other fruits and vegetables, and also produced in the body, is necessary, in combination with magnesium, for providing fuel for muscle energy. Research has shown that malic acid and magnesium supplementation can be remarkably helpful for painful, stiff, and sore muscles and for muscle fatigue, which results when the muscles are broken down in an attempt to create energy. Studies done with sufferers of fibromyalgia have shown that malic acid and magnesium supplementation.

Nutritional Support for the Hair, Skin and Nails

The herb horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is also helpful in the absorption and utilization of calcium, providing further benefits for the structural system. Pure Jojoba oil can be rubbed into the scalp to improve the health of the scalp and hair. When the pure oil is used it only takes two or three drops. Put the oil on the fingertips and work into the scalp, rather than into the hair.
Hair loss can also be caused by hormone imbalances, particularly an underactive thyroid gland. If this is the case, nutritional supplements for the glandular system may be beneficial. See Glandular System

Nutritional Support for Fractures

Bone fractures should be treated by a doctor to insure that the fractured bone is properly "set" and stabilized. Once this is done, nutritional supplementation can speed healing time and help insure against problems such as malunion (where the bones refuse to completely unite.) A good complete calcium supplement, as previously discussed, should be used when recovering from a fracture. T

Nutritional Support for the Joints

Joint inflammation and pain are very common. There are many reasons for this including excess weight, joint misalignments and poor nutrition. The typical modern diet, high in saturated fats and simple sugars, promotes the body's production of histamines, which tend to increase inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and allergies. Healthy eating habits, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, provides the body with antioxidants which have an anti-inflammatory effect. Not all fats are bad. Certain "good fats," like fish oil and flax seed oil have an anti-inflammatory effect and are very beneficial for the joints. Ligan-rich cold-pressed oil from flax seeds is a rich source of three essential fatty acids (EFAs.) Flax seed oil contains omega-3 essential fatty acid (EFA), alpha-linolenic acid, and linoleic acid (omega-6 EFA) in the correct proportions. This is important to know since the body cannot manufacture EFAs. (That's why they are called "essential." It is essential that we get them in the diet.) North Americans are typically lacking omega-3 EFAs in their diet, and Flaxseed Oil is the perfect supplement. Flaxseeds also contain lignans which provide immune system support in addition to circulatory and structural benefits. Other key components, lecithin and phospholipids, are responsible for the development and integrity of cell membranes. Scientific research has proven that dietary supplementation with flax seed oil has beneficial effects for all types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Phytonutrients known as Proanthocyanidins, (previously known by the trade name Pycnogenol), found in certain foods and herbs, particularly in certain types of grape seeds and pine bark, have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Many individuals also find that they are beneficial for allergies. For best results, initially at least one milligram (1 mg) of proanthocyanidins per pound of body weight per day should be taken in divided dosages throughout the day. Once symptoms are significantly reduced a dosage of 45 to 60 mg a day will usually suffice for maintenance. Proanthocyanidins are very safe and may provide many benefits for the body, since they are powerful antioxidants. Negative reactions are rare, usually occurring only at very high dosages (much higher than I have recommended here), and are usually limited to gastrointestinal upset which disappears when the dosage is reduced.
Plant enzymes also have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Unfortunately, most of the enzymes that are naturally found in our plant foods are destroyed by cooking and food processing leaving the typical diet deficient.
Cat's Claw Herb (Uncaria tomentosa) has been used for centuries by the Ashaninka Indians of Peru for a wide variety of health concerns involving the immune, digestive and structural systems. The herb comes exclusively from the highlands of the Peruvian rainforest. It is a giant, woody vine that grows to heights of more than 100 feet. The name comes from the thorns found on the vine that closely resemble the claws of a cat.
Recent scientific research has proven many of the claims made by the Ashaninka Indians regarding their prized herb. Scientists have isolated six alkaloids from the uña de gato vine and have discovered that four of these alkaloids have a pronounced enhancement effect on the ability of white blood cells and macrophages of the immune system to attack, engulf and digest harmful microorganisms, foreign matter and debris.
Una de gato has also been shown to have beneficial effects for the structural system, particularly for arthritis. It contains proanthocyanidins which are powerful antioxidants that decrease the production of histamine, reducing inflammation, swelling, and free radical damage to collagen. Uña de gato is very safe, although some individuals may experience a mild laxative effect which usually disappears when the dosage is reduced. It is generally recommended that pregnant and lactating women should not use the herb.
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), the "Father of All Herbs," has a long history of traditional use for joint problems, particularly arthritis. Alfalfa is highly nutritious, being especially rich in vital trace minerals. The Alfalfa plant sends its roots deep into the earth, some say as far as 60 feet, where the soil has not been depleted of trace minerals, so common in today's overworked soils. Alfalfa is also an alkalizing food, which offers an additional benefit for "over-acid" conditions like arthritis. Liquid Chlorophyll, a popular alkalizer and blood cleanser that may also be helpful for arthritis, is derived from the alfalfa plant. It is important to choose a brand of alfalfa that uses plants harvested no younger than three years old, because that's how long it takes the plant to send its roots deep enough to reach the best mineral deposits. Most herb companies use alfalfa plants that are harvested when they are less than one year old, yielding an inferior product.
Yucca (Yucca baccata) is a familiar plant to Americans who have lived or traveled in the Southwest U.S.A. or Mexico, where it is abundant. Yucca is also known as soap root, Spanish bayonet and Spanish dagger. The reference to soap comes from a long tradition of using the plant's roots as a foaming agent for cleaning. The American Indians used yucca, not only for its nutritional value but also to make baskets, belts, ropes, cords, sandals and mats. Some Indians—such as the Hopi, Papago and Utes—still use yucca for these purposes today. Yucca root contains large amounts of asteroid saponin, which accounts for its lathering ability as well as its antiinflammatory effect. These saponins are precursors to the natural cortisone produced in the adrenal gland to reduce inflammation in the body. Yucca root also has an alkalizing effect and helps "clean out" accumulations or deposits in the body, such as in the joints in the case of arthritis.

Glucosamine is the only substance (nutritional or drug) that has been shown to have the ability to stop and even reverse the degeneration of osteoarthritis. And unlike the commonly used drugs for osteoarthritis (NSAIDS), glucosamine is perfectly safe and without side-effects.
As we age, the hyalin cartilage, or articular cartilage, that cushions the joints where the ends of the bones come together begins to break down faster than the body can regenerate it. As we saw earlier in this lesson, the commonly used arthritis drugs (NSAIDS), although providing some relief by temporarily masking the pain, actually make the condition worse because they interfere with the body's ability to regenerate or rebuild cartilage. Glucosamine, a nutrient found in very small amounts in certain foods, provides the building blocks necessary for rebuilding cartilage. Glucosamine has become the treatment of choice for arthritis in many countries. Double-blind controlled studies have proven that it works.
Research has demonstrated that although NSAIDS such as ibuprofen provide faster relief, glucosamine provides better results when comparing reduction of pain and swelling after two weeks time. Initially, 800 mgs of glucosamine should be taken twice a day. One should drink plenty of pure water with the supplement to help rehydrate the joints. After relief is obtained, usually after about two weeks, this dosage can usually be cut in half, and a maintenance dose of 400 mgs of glucosamine twice a day can be used for continuing care of the joints. Two forms of glucosamine supplements are generally available, glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride (HCL). Between the two, research has shown that the glucosamine hydrochloride is the superior form. Many nutritionists recommend that glucosamine be taken with chondroitin (see below.)
Chondroitin is another protein building block for the connective tissues around the joints. It is an ingredient in the "gristle" attached to the ends of the bones in the meats that we eat. Chondroitin, along with proteoglycans, attracts and absorbs fluids, which help cushion the joints. It also inhibits the destruction of joint cartilage. Since we don't normally eat the "gristle" off the ends of the bones in the foods that we eat, chondroitin is available as a nutritional supplement for joint health. For best results, chondroitin should be used along with glucosamine.
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally-occurring sulfur compound found in the body and in certain foods—particular meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, beans, legumes, garlic and onions. Research has demonstrated that nutritional supplementation with MSM has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and may be helpful for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis. There are few if any negative side effects from taking MSM at usual dosages. Even individuals who are allergic to sulfur-containing drugs can usually take it without any problems. Extremely high dosages of MSM can result in gastrointestinal complaints, but even these will usually disappear when the dosage is decreased.
Sulfur is a mineral that is needed for the manufacture of several important sulfur-containing amino acids, which are used in the manufacturing of many proteins including the ones that form hair, skin and muscle. Sulfur is needed to make bile, which is necessary for the digestion of fat. It is also a component of teeth, collagen and bones. Sulfur is contained in insulin, which is needed to regulate blood sugar levels. Many potential benefits have been proposed for supplementation of sulfur in the form of MSM, but most of these have not yet been proven due to a lack of scientific research. The greatest benefit for MSM will probably prove to be for the structural system. MSM is available in capsule form to be taken internally, and in a lotion for external application around painful joints. MSM is a key ingredient, along with Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Devil's Claw Herb.

Nutritional Support for Arthritis

I consider it essential for just about anyone beginning a natural program for any type of arthritis to begin with a cleanse of the channels of elimination, including the bowel, liver and kidneys. (The only exceptions are pregnant and lactating women and individuals who are thin, pale and weak. Weak individuals should begin with a building program and cleanse only after they have regained some of their strength.) Cleansing helps rid the body of toxins that have built up due to chemical pollution and unhealthy eating habits. The typical North American consumes four to five pounds of chemical additives each year, hidden in their food. Add to this the fact that we get less than half the fiber we need—fiber which is necessary to sweep the intestinal tract clean—and you will begin to understand the necessity of this essential first step.

Osteoarthritis

As I mentioned on the previous page, Glucosamine has been shown to be helpful for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, but it is probably osteoarthritis for which it has the greatest benefit. I recommend that glucosamine, along with Chondroitin, MSM and Devil's Claw Herb.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Research has shown that Flax Seed Oil reduces the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and helps lubricate the joints. Uña de gato  has been discovered that many cases of RA involve a low grade infection in the joints, something which can easily be missed by doctors. Uña de gato has the added benefit of being a powerful stimulant for the white blood cells of the immune system, increasing their ability to engulf and destroy the pathogenic organisms involved in infections.

Gout

In addition to the advice given previously on cleansing and plant enzymes, the herbs burdock, dandelion and safflowers help the body eliminate the excess uric acid associated with gout. The foods which increase flare-ups should be reduced, including meat, salt and especially alcohol. Aspirin should be avoided as it interfers with the body's ability to eliminate uric acid. Eight to ten fresh red cherries, eaten daily, can also be very beneficial for gout. It is important for the gout sufferer to alkalize his or her system.

Osteoporosis

The previous discussion in this lesson regarding calcium and the bones covered many of the factors involved with this potentially debilitating disease and the importance of a complete, quality calcium supplement for the bones such as Skeletal Strength. Daily weight-bearing exercises such as walking are also important and the glandular system should be supported if it is a weak area for the individual involved. A collagen supplement may also be helpful. It will be recalled that the bones are made up primarily of the minerals calcium and phosphorus on a collagen matrix. It is my opinion, and the opinion of many health experts, that the primary cause of osteoporosis, rather than insufficient dietary intake of calcium, is a diet that is too high in acid-producing foods, particularly animal proteins. Milk and other dairy products, rather than helping the situation, are actually making it worse. Carbonated beverages, particularly colas, are also detrimental. As previously mentioned in this lesson, these foods produce a slight acid shift in the blood, making it necessary for the body to pull calcium from the bones to buffer the acid. This calcium is eventually lost through the urine.
The best thing we can do to prevent osteoporosis is to 1) eat more fruits and vegetables and less animal protein; 2) get most of the protein we need from plant sources such as soy; and 3) avoid carbonated beverages, particularly sodas. Unfortunately Americans appear to be heading in the opposite direction. The high consumption of acid-producing junk foods and colas that our children are consuming today, at an age when they should be building their "calcium bank" instead of withdrawing from it, will certainly lead to more osteoporosis—which is already an epidemic—in the future.

Nutritional Support for Ptosis of Organs

Colon cleansing "Optrimax plum delite" is essential for this problem, to get the weight of the colon off the internal organs. Exercises, particularly those on a slant board with the head slightly lower than the rest of the body, are also helpful. In addition, a collagen can help in two ways: It can be used to help control weight, which is often a factor in this condition; and it supplies necessary nutrients to help strengthen the connective tissues responsible for supporting the internal organs.

Nutritional Support for Teeth and Gums

As we saw in a previous section of this lesson, gum disease, or gingivitis, can be an indication of osteoporosis of the bone surrounding the teeth. A good calcium supplement for the bones, such as Skeletal Strength, is therefore a good first step in maintaining the health of the teeth and gums. Coenzyme Q-10, one 30 mg capsule with a meal two to three times a day, is also very helpful for the gums and will often arrest or even reverse gum disease.
Tea Tree Oil, the pure oil from the Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), can be applied directly to the gums with a cotton swab to kill bacteria. A drop or two of Tea Tree Oil can also be used on your toothbrush and dental floss.
White Oak Bark has an astringent effect which helps tighten the gums and stop bleeding. The capsules containing white oak bark can be opened and the herb powder can be applied directly to the gums and held in place with a cotton ball. You can also make a tea of the herb powder and use the tea, once cooled to room temperature, as a mouth wash. Rinse your mouth with the tea for a good minute and then swallow it.
Black Walnut removes plaque and whitens the teeth. Open one capsule of black walnut herb and put the herb powder in the palm of your hand. Dip a wet tooth brush in the herb powder and use it to brush your teeth. You can also use the liquid herbal extract of black walnut if you prefer. I like the herb powder because it has a mild abrasive effect.
Clove Bud Essential Oil is good for numbing the pain of a toothache. If the taste and sensation of clove oil is familiar to you it may be because dentists use it on a cotton swab to numb the gums prior to administering a shot. Put the clove oil on a cotton ball and place it against the gum for temporary relief until you can see your dentist.

Conclusion

The importance of the Structural System holds for our health. It is the system most visible to others; i.e., hair, skin, nails, form and posture. It is one of the systems most involved in the aging process; e.g., osteoarthritis and osteoporosis—two conditions occuring at epidemic proportions in our modern world. To top it off, many of us are overweight adding additional stress and "wear and tear" to the structural system. The good news is, there are many things we can do to help protect ourselves from the problems and deterioration that so commonly involve this important body system. There is probably no other system that is affected more by our lifestyle and diet, and today we have many choices when it comes to nutritionally supporting the system that supports us.

The respiratory system

The respiratory system enables us to produce energy by supplying the body with a continuous supply of oxygen. It is also responsible for eliminating carbon dioxide, a byproduct of cell metabolism. Whereas oxygen is necessary for human and animal respiration, carbon dioxide is necessary for plant respiration. Plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, their waste product, and the cycle of interdependence between plants and animals continues. (Contrary to what certain authoritarians will tell you, carbon dioxide is not a pollutant, and is just as necessary to the cycle of life as oxygen.)

The four-chambered human heart is divided into two separate pumps, the "right heart" and the "left heart." The right heart (consisting of the right atrium and ventricle) collects deoxygenated blood returning from the body by way of the veins and pumps it through the lungs where carbon dioxide is eliminated and fresh oxygen is picked up. From the lungs, the newly oxygenated blood is collected by the left heart (the left atrium and ventricle) and is pumped, by way of the aorta, throughout the body to supply the cells with oxygen and to collect carbon dioxide for elimination the next time through.

			The ribs enclose the thoracic cavity providing bony protection for the vital organs of the thorax—the heart and lungs. Because the thorax must expand and contract to allow breathing, the ribs move slightly in a "bucket handle" type of motion with each breath.

Breathing

The act of breathing is performed primarily by the diaphragm, a large muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. During inspiration (breathing in), the diaphragm contracts, drawning downward, creating a vacuum in the thoracic cavity. This vacuum inflates the lungs by drawing air into the body through the trachea, or windpipe. During normal expiration (breathing out), the diaphragm relaxes allowing the air to flow out as the lungs deflate, similar to the way an inflated balloon deflates when released. 

The diaphragm receives nerve innervation from the phrenic nerve, which is made up from branches from the 3rd, 4th and 5th cervical (neck) nerve roots. If the cervical spine is severed below the level of the 5th nerve root, paralysis may occur in the body below the shoulders, but breathing will be normal because the phrenic nerve will be intact. If the cervical spine is severed above the 3rd nerve root, the diaphragm will be paralyzed, and if the patient survives, mechanical assistance will be needed for breathing. If the cervical spine is severed between the 3rd and 5th nerve roots, partial paralysis of the diaphragm may occur and some assistance may be needed, but the patient may be able to do some breathing on his or her own. To help remember the nerve enervation to the diaphragm, medical students are taught the mnemonic phrase, "C3, 4 and 5 keep the diaphragm alive.

The Upper Respiratory Tract             Proper breathing involves drawing air in through the nose. The nasal cavity warms and moistens the air and filters it of impurities. Tiny hairs and sticky mucous membranes trap foreign materials before they can enter the delicate tissues of the lungs. Structures in the nasal cavity called concha increase the surface area allowing maximum efficiency. The sinuses are hollow areas, or cavities, in the bones of the skull that are lined with mucous membranes and that open into the nasal cavity. The sinuses provide resonance for the voice. When the sinuses are inflammed and filled with mucus the voice has a different quality, often referred to as "nasal" in character.                         The pharynx refers to the part of the respiratory tract behind the nasal cavity and mouth, in other words, the throat. Inflamnation of the pharynx is referred to as pharyngitis [pharynx + itis, inflammation] also known as the common "sore throat."

Because the middle ear chamber drains into the upper respiratory tract, by way of the eustachian tube, the middle ear is often considered part of the respiratory system. When the eustachian tube becomes blocked, fluid can build up in the middle ear chamber. Bacteria can take advantage of the situation and proliferate, resulting in inflammation and infection in the middle ear. Such a condition is referred to as otitis media [ot-, ear + itis, inflammation] or simply, a middle ear infection.           The Lower Respiratory Tract Moving further down the respiratory tract we reach the larynx, or "voice box," which contains the vocal cords. The voice is produced by controlled vibrations of the vocal cords as air is pushed out of the lungs and through the larynx. When the layrnx becomes inflammed a condition can occur resulting in temporary loss of the voice. This is known as laryngitis [larynx + -itis, inflammation]. The Lobes of the Lungs The right lung is divided into three lobes while the left is divided into two. The left lung is smaller to make room for the heart.  The trachea, or windpipe, divides into two principal bronchi (plural for bronchus) as it enters the lungs. The principal bronchi are further divided into smaller and smaller bronchi. When the bronchi become inflammed, a condition results which is referred to as bronchitis [bronchi + -itis, inflammation]. Further divisions of the bronchi eventually lead to tiny tubes, called bronchioles, which lead to tiny air sacs known as alveoli. The alveoli are richly supplied with capillaries where the exchange of gases takes place between the red blood cells and the air. When the alveoli become inflammed due to an infection, a condition results which is referred to as pneumonia. Pneumonia can be viral or bacterial in nature and can also result from yeast or fungus infections.   The bronchial branches contain smooth muscle which is under the control of the autonomic (automatic) nervous system. Stimulation from the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system causes these smooth muscles to relax, dilating the bronchial branches allowing more air to pass through the lungs. This is what happens during the "fight or flight" response. When danger is perceived, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated to prepare the body for immediate action. In the case of the lungs, this means allowing more air through so that more oxygen will be available for muscle contraction (to either fight or run away from the danger). When the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is stimulated, the smooth muscles of the bronchial branches contract, causing constriction of the bronchial branches allowing less air through the lungs. Normally the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system are in balance, but imbalances can occur. Overstimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system can cause such constriction of the airways that breathing becomes difficult, resulting in asthma (Greek for "gasping.") During the "fight or flight" response, stimulation from the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system causes the bronchial tubes to dilate, allowing more air through the lungs. The lower respiratory tract is lined with tiny hair-like structures known as cilia, which move in a coordinated wave-like motion to help move debris upward and out of the lungs. Once the debris reaches the larger bronchial tubes it can stimulate the cough reflex, which is designed to expel debris from the respiratory tract.             The tiny delicate cilia are killed by tobacco smoke; and as a result, smokers have few if any cilia remaining in their lungs. Because of this, and the constant irritation of smoke, smokers are much more susceptible to all sorts of respiratory problems. Smoking is also the primary cause of lung cancer, is a major contributor to all sorts of circulatory problems including heart disease and stroke, and is responsible for nearly all cases of emphysema. Smoking also contributes to stomach ulcers, harms unborn babies, and increases the risk of osteoporosis. And second-hand smoke also harms nonsmokers, including children. The children of smokers suffer from many more respiratory problems and ear infections than those of non-smokers. Smoking has justifiably earned the reputation of being the largest preventable cause of death and disease. When Something Goes Wrong Allergies An allergy is a hypersensitive condition that some people experience to substances that others find harmless. It is essentially a malfunction of the immune system. The problem is not an overly active immune system, as some people believe, but a misdirection of the immune system. Allergy sufferers usually need more support for their immune systems, not less, because their immune systems are overworked, fatigued, and unable to perform efficiently. The immune system in allergic individuals produces antibodies against the substance they are allergic to, which is known as the allergen. When the antibody reacts with the allergen an allergic reaction results. The symptoms depend on the area where the interaction takes place. In the nasal cavity it can cause sneezing and runny nose or "hay fever." In the air passages of the lungs it can cause constriction of the bronchial tubes with coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing, or asthma. On the skin it can cause hives, welts and itching. The allergen, the substance producing the allergic reaction, is usually a protein or protein-carbohydrate complex. It may be inhaled (e.g., molds and pollen), eaten (e.g., shellfish), contacted through the skin (e.g., wool, poison ivy) or injected under the skin (e.g., penicillin.) The antibodies react with the allergen causing the body to release chemicals, including histamine, that bring about the allergic response. Closely related to the allergen is the antigen, the substance that triggers the initial production of antibodies. In other words, the antigen refers to the substance that causes the allergy, and the allergen refers to the substance that triggers the allergic response. Like the allergen, the antigen is usually a protein or protein-carbohydrate complex. What Causes Allergies? Allergies often result from a "leaky gut". The inner membrane of the small intestines, where food absorption takes place, is designed to allow tiny particles to pass into the bloodstream while larger particles are kept out. For example, before they are allowed to pass into the bloodstream, large protein molecules must be broken down by the body's enzymes into tiny amino acids, the building blocks of protein. When large particles, such as whole protein molecules, pass into the bloodstream due to a "leaky gut," they act as powerful antigens. The body's immune system treats them as foreign objects and an immune reaction occurs resulting in antibody production. What Causes a Leaky Gut? A leaky gut results when the intestinal mucosa (the inner lining of the intestines) becomes inflamed and damaged. This is most commonly caused by 1) drugs, especially antibiotics and NSAIDS such as aspirin and ibuprofen; 2) an overgrowth of yeast in the intestinal tract; and 3) improper digestion of food, which is usually caused by a deficiency of digestive enzymes and insufficient mastication (chewing) of food. These factors are augmented by an imbalance in the bacteria of the gut, as when the normal beneficial bacteria, the flora, is overrun by the bad bacteria and yeast.

The symptoms of allergies are brought about when the body releases certain chemicals, including histamine, as a response to being exposed to an allergen. Seasonal Allergies Many people experience their allergy symptoms during the "allergy season," when plants are releasing pollen into the air. This type of allergy is often referred to as "hay fever." There are two such seasons, the Spring and the Fall, with the Spring being the worst time of the year for the greatest number of people. Allergy sufferers often find that they can reduce their symptoms by decreasing their intake of "junk foods"—foods that are high in saturated fats, simple sugars, and salt—and by increasing their intake of healthy foods which are rich in antioxidants and high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables. Of the three culprits mentioned, the greatest problems seem to come from saturated fats—the kind of fats found in most "fast foods" and processed foods; although for many individuals the greatest problem seems to be sugar and other refined carbohydrates (most bakery goods.) "Junk Foods," containing large amounts of fat and sugar increase the body's production of histamine, which mediates inflammatory and allergic reactions. Periodic cleansing is also essential for allergy sufferers. The average North American consumes four to five pounds of chemical food additives each year, hidden in their foods. The body can not eliminate all of this material, especially when we do not consume enough fiber (which few Americans do.) As a result, many of these chemicals are stored in the body tissues and organs, particularly the liver. The immune system becomes hypersensitive and eventually it and the liver becomes overworked and their performance is adversely effected. Cleansing helps the body get rid of toxins and chemical irritants. We recommend that everyone do a two week cleanse, twice a year, in the Spring and again in the Fall, even if you do not suffer from allergy symptoms.  Asthma Asthma, also called bronchial asthma, is the symptom complex involving difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing and thick mucus from the lungs. Sudden asthma attacks, especially in children, can be triggered by environmental allergies, such as mold and pollen, and by IgE type food allergies. (The discussion of food allergies is beyond the scope of this lesson. Asthma is caused by narrowing of the bronchial airways due to muscle spasm, swelling of the bronchial tubes, and/or excess thick mucus. In addition to allergic reactions, asthmatic attacks can result from an infection in the lungs. When an infection is involved the onset of the asthma is usually more gradual. Asthma can also be triggered by emotional factors. A sudden or severe asthma attack is a medical emergency that could result in death so it should be treated by a doctor. When there is a sudden increase in the rate of breathing with hacking and coughing without production of sputum (phlegm or mucus), the individual may not be getting air and could suffocate.   Asthma can be triggered by allergies, infection and emotional factors. Do Allergy Shots Help Asthma? Not according to a medical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (1/30/97). In a study of 121 children, researchers examined the effects of allergy shots on asthma and found that the shots were of no benefit. Allergy shots are commonly given to children with asthma in the belief that a decreased sensitivity to allergens will decrease the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. The researchers had not intended to discredit the shots, but had hoped to quantify their effectiveness. They were so shocked by the outcome that they urged caution in accepting their own results. Is There a Dietary Link to Asthma? At the Annual International Conference of the American Thoracic Society, Dr. Anne Woolcock presented research from the University of Sydney, Australia, reporting that children who consume high amounts of sugar and trans-fats apparently have a higher risk of asthma. In a study of 213 children, researchers discovered that children with hyper-responsive airways took in 25 percent more fat and sugar than normal children. Children whose diets included fish oils, on the other hand, had half the risk of other children. As we discovered in the previous section on allergies, "junk foods," that is, foods that are high in trans-fats and/or simple sugars (including white sugar and white flour), increase histamine production in the body, which increases inflammatory and allergic reactions. So one thing that we can do to help allergies and asthma is to eat a healthier diet, avoiding "junk foods" as much as possible. In a latter section of this lesson, we will also look at some nutritional supplements, including herbs, that may help allergy and asthma sufferers.  Emphysema Emphysema results when the lungs are over inflated due to destructive changes to the alveolar walls, usually as a result of smoking. The lungs become rigid and are not able to absorb much oxygen, so emphysema patients will often be seen with a tube up their nose and a bottle of oxygen by their side. Whereas asthma sufferers have difficulty getting air into their lungs, emphysema sufferers feel like they have difficulty getting air out of their lungs. Due to labored breathing and lung rigidity, they tend to develop a characteristic "barrel chest" appearance, where the front to back measurement of the chest approximates the side to side measurement. The damage that occurs to the lungs in emphysema is generally irreversible, even with the cessation of smoking. Sinus Trouble The most common disease of the head is probably sinusitis [sinus + itis, inflammation]. The sinuses become inflammed and painful, the mucous membranes in the sinus cavities become swollen, and sometimes excess mucus is present which can block the sinus cavities. Acute (sudden onset) sinusitis is usually treated by doctors with antibiotics, but these rarely provide lasting relief and continued use can eventually lead to chronic (longstanding) sinusitis, which is much more difficult to treat. Sinus conditions can be "dry," meaning that there is a deficiency of mucus or the mucus is very thick; or they can be "damp," meaning that there is an excess of mucus. Damp conditions can be "cold," where the mucus is white or clear and watery; or they can be "warm," where the mucus is yellow, green or brown. There is usually an infection present in "damp, warm" sinus conditions. We will discuss sinus conditions further in a later section of this lesson when we talk about herbs and nutritional supplements. Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infections)                         When the ear drum is intact, the "middle ear" is sealed from the outside world, except for the eustachian tube, which provides dranage into the pharynx (throat), and allows air pressure on both sides of the ear drum to equalize. As we saw in a previous section, when this tube becomes blocked, which can happen when there is excess fluid, when the fluid becomes thicker than normal, or when there is swelling of the tissues, fluid can build up in the middle ear chamber providing an ideal location for bacteria to grow. This can result in inflammation, infection and pain in the middle ear, a condition which is referred to as otitis media [ot-, ear + itis, inflammation] or simply, a middle ear infection. Ironically, it is the antibiotics that are used to treat otitis media that often turn out to be the greatest culprit. Although they can provide quick, temporary relief, antiobiotics cause the fluid in the middle ear to thicken, leading to further problems later on. When middle ear infections become chronic and recurrent, it is usually the overuse of antibiotics that is the cause.  Antibiotics for Ear Infections? A review of the scientific literature on the use of antibiotics for the treatment of otitis media (middle ear infections) was conducted by a group of eight researchers from Britain, the Netherlands and the United States. Their results were reported in the British Medical Journal (BMJ 315(7100):98-102). The study was funded by the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This important study compared the limited use of antibiotics for acute ear infections as practiced in the Netherlands and Iceland, with the abundant use of antibiotics as routinely prescribed in the U.S. and Britain. Otitis media is the most common reason for outpatient antibiotic use in the U.S. with approximately 30 percent of children under age three receiving such treatment for earache each year. The Netherlands, on the other hand, does not include antibiotic use in their initial routine treatment of otitis media. The authors note that the policy of the Netherlands and Iceland is associated with a "decreased emergence of resistance among organisms commonly found in otitis media" among their children. In other words, there are fewer antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, or "super germs" as they are commonly called, in these countries as compared to the U.S. and Britain. This conclusion will not come as a surprise to scientists, but as the paper continues, some findings are revealed that are even more astonishing. The authors continue by addressing some very important questions about antibiotic use for otitis media: Does Antibiotic Treatment Improve Outcome for Otitis Media? "[W]e conclude that the benefit of routine antimicrobial use for otitis media, judged by either short or long-term outcomes, is unproved." Does Antibiotic Treatment Prevent Complications? "Although preventing mastoiditis and meningitis is a rationale for antimicrobial treatment, little evidence exists that routine treatment is effective for this purpose." Do Children at High Risk Benefit from Antibiotics? "No study has addressed whether antimicrobial treatment decreases the frequency of these in all or some of those known risk factors." What is the Optimal Type and Duration of Administration of the drugs? "In the nine country study, antimicrobials did not improve outcome at two months, and no differences in rates of recovery were found for either antimicrobial type or duration." In conclusion, the authors state, "we conclude that existing research offers no compelling evidence that children with acute otitis media routinely given antimicrobials [antibiotics] have a shorter duration of symptoms, fewer recurrences, or better long-term outcomes than those who do not receive them." It's hard to believe that for decades these drugs have been poured down our children without research to support their use. And despite what we know, the practice has not improved! But what harm, other than the obvious financial one, has this indiscriminate use of antibiotics caused? In the initial paragraph of the same paper, the authors quote an article that appeared in Science (1992:257;1036-8) entitled, "The crises of antibiotic resistance": "Increasing worldwide resistance of bacteria to antimicrobial drugs is causing a crises manifested by higher morbidity, mortality and costs." The Immune System After its discovery in the early part of the 20th century, penicillin was hailed as a "miracle drug." Today, as a consequence of its overuse and the resulting emergence of antibiotic-resistant germs, penicillin is practically powerless against germs. Medical scientists have developed stronger and stronger antibiotics, which has led to "super germs" and a "crisis" situation, as many concerned scientists are calling it. Why has this been allowed to continue? Because the drug companies, who make billions of dollars each year with antibiotic sales, are spending millions of dollars mass marketing their drugs—brainwashing both doctors and parents. In our awe of "miracle drugs," many of us have forgotten about the real miracles that take place in our bodies every day, including the body's "natural antibiotics"—the white blood cells that silently and tirelessly kill and consume viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells that have invaded our bodies. (See the lesson on the Immune System.) Consistent with today's new "natural health" care paradigm, many people are taking another look at traditional and natural ways of combating disease. Herbal nutrition for the immune system is gaining popularity as a valid alternative. We will discuss this topic further in the next section of this lesson which deals with nutritional supplementation. Nutritional Support for the Respiratory System As I briefly touched upon in the previous section, cleansing is an important first step for most respiratory problems, including allergies, sinus trouble and asthma. Cleansing is not for pregnant and lactating women nor for individuals in a weakened condition, i.e., those who are pale, weak and underweight. These individuals should begin by building. But the rest of us should begin by cleansing all the channels of elimination, and by keeping these channels clear with a cleanse twice a year, ideally in the Spring and again in the Fall. The lungs are eliminating organs. When the body's other channels of elimination are not performing properly there is extra stress on the lungs and toxins begin to build up in the body tissues. This further affects the mucous membranes (which are also channels of elimination) leading to excess mucus and/or to thickening of the mucus and perhaps to inflammation and swelling of the membranes as well. An unhealthy internal environment results—providing an ideal place for the proliferation of microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast. The immune system, which has to continually battle these stressors, becomes weak. Allergies result, along with poor resistance, leaving us more susceptible to infections.  The yeast-like fungus that often goes undiagnosed and which is often involved in chronic respiratory problems is Candida albicans. Asthma When dealing with constricted airways, it is helpful to determine if there is a history of anxiety or stress, or if there is a history of respiratory allergies or hay fever: Constricted Airways with a History of Anxiety or Stress When there is bronchial constriction with wheezing, deep, gasping cough and a history of anxiety or stress. Herbs that may help:Lobelia inflata, Fenugreek & Thyme. Fenugreek & Thyme contains two important herbs which have the combined effect of opening sinus and lung congestion and stimulating the gentle removal of mucus while calming the nerves. Fenugreek herb contains mucilaginous compounds, which are gel-like substances known for their ability to soothe inflamed tissues. It is also an excellent herbal source of selenium, an antioxidant that helps the body utilize oxygen. Thyme is also known to support respiratory health, especially brochial and throat ailments. Lobelia inflata, a bitter herb native to North America, also known as "Indian Tobacco." Lobelia has antispasmodic and expectorant actions and is excellent for clearing the lungs. A few drops of Lobelia Essence held under the tongue, along with a couple of drops rubbed into the chest or upper back, can often stop an asthma attack very quickly. Sinus and Lung Support for "Dry" Conditions "Dry" conditions involve dry lungs and sinuses. There is a deficiency of mucus, or the mucus is thick and yellowish. Dry conditions can be either "Hot" or "Cold" Hot Dry Conditions: Dry conditions that are "hot" result in a dry, irritated unproductive cough. The best herb to use here is Mullein, which has a soothing moistening effect on the mucous membranes. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is native to Europe and Asia, although it has been naturalized in the U.S. It bears yellow clustered flowers and is known by many names including Bunny's Ears, Donkey's Ears and Velvet Plant. The plant has a long history of use in many cultures. Mullein has a high mucilage content and contains mild saponins, making it ideal for "dry" respiratory conditions since it soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes and is a good natural decongestant and expectorant. Mullein also inhibits the growth of viruses and bacteria, including those that cause tuberculosis. (Classification: Mucilaginous herb. Cool energy.) Marshmallow & Fenugreek is an excellent herbal combination for dry hot respiratory conditions. Like mullein, marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) is a cooling and wetting herb. It has been used for respiratory conditions since at least as far back as ancient Greece. This herbal combination is also suitable for emphysema. (For emphysema use with Omega-3 EPA fish oil or Flax Seed Oil.) Sinus and Lung Support for "Damp" Conditions Damp conditions involve excessive mucus. The herbal combination Fenugreek and Thyme is excellent for these conditions because it helps with the removal of mucus. Together the two herbs act as a soothing expectorant for both the lungs and the sinuses. Fenugreek loosens thick mucus and thyme helps dilate and relax the bronchial branches and relieve spasm. Damp conditions can be cold, with white or clear and watery mucus; or warm, with yellow, green or brown mucus. Warm conditions often involve an infection. For Damp and Cold conditions of the lungs, Garlic may be helpful. For Damp and Cold conditions of the sinuses, the herbal combination Fenugreek & Thyme may be of greatest benefit. For Damp and Warm conditions, Echinacea/Golden seal a blend of two important herbs for the immune system, to help the body fight the infection.  A medical research study recently found that children who ate at least five uncooked apples every week suffered from significantly fewer respiratory problems, including asthma. Conclusion: Humans can survive for weeks or even months without food, and days without water, but only a few minutes without breathing. Since oxygen is so vital to the energy needs of the human body, it is essential that we maintain healthy lungs by breathing unpolluted air as much as possible and by supplying the body in general with good nutrition. Since the respiratory system is also a system of elimination, it is greatly affected when the other systems of elimination are not functioning properly. Cleansing for all the channels of elimination is an essential first step for most respiratory problems. After cleansing, the beneficial flora of the body must be reestablished to reduce or eliminate overgrowth of yeast and fungus, a very common contributor to respiratory problems of all types. A respiratory problem can be better supported nutritionally when we establish whether the condition is "dry" or "damp," and also whether it is "hot" or "cold." Some herbs have a cooling effect, while others have a warming effect. Likewise some herbs have a drying effect while others have a soothing and moisturizing effect. With this knowledge, we can select the most appropriate nutritional aid for the individual involved. If you have two or more of the following indications, you may consider nutritional aid to the respiratory system: Body odor and/or bad breath Food allergies Smoking Regular consumption of dairy foods             Feeling low, uninterested, or depressed Exposure to air pollution daily Respiratory, sinus or allergy problems             Lifestyle Suggestions: Avoid smoking Walk outside daily Avoid dairy products, especially when congested Practice deep breathing and good posture Sing and laugh Maintain your ideal weight