Author: Jonbrauer

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions worldwide. Despite considerable investigation, current treatments have modest benefits, and the prognosis remains poor. This blog post explores a functional and integrative medicine approach to assessing and healing CFS, focusing on causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, including natural/functional/herbal/integrative options.

Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

CFS is a multifactorial condition, and its causes are not fully understood. However, some key factors contributing to CFS include:

  • Viral Infections: Some cases of CFS have been linked to viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, and enteroviruses.
  • Immune System Dysfunction: Dysregulation of the immune system may play a role, with abnormalities in immune function, including inflammation, observed in individuals with CFS.
  • Genetic Predisposition: There is evidence suggesting a genetic component to CFS, with individuals with a family history of the syndrome being more susceptible.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Disruptions in the endocrine system, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, can contribute to CFS.
  • Psychological Factors: While not a primary cause, psychological stressors can exacerbate symptoms and contribute to the development of CFS in some cases.
  • Leaky Gut: Recent research has found a connection between a leaky gut and CFS. When treated for a leaky gut, patients with CFS have shown an improvement in symptoms.
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins, pollutants, and certain chemicals may trigger or worsen CFS symptoms in susceptible individuals.
  • Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Impaired energy production within cells, known as mitochondrial dysfunction, has been implicated in CFS.
  • Infections: Some people develop CFS/ME symptoms after recovering from certain viral or bacterial infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus, Ross River virus, Coxiella burnetii, and others. However, not all people with CFS/ME have had these infections.[1][3][5]
  • Immune system changes: CFS/ME may be triggered by changes in how the immune system responds to stress or infection. Patients often have lower functioning natural killer cells and chronic production of cytokines, which can lead to changes in the body’s stress response.[1][5]
  • Physical or emotional stress: Some people report that physical injury, surgery, or significant emotional stress preceded the onset of their CFS/ME symptoms.[2][5]
  • Problems with energy production: There are indications that the way cells convert fuel into energy may be different in people with CFS/ME, but the exact link to the development of the illness is unclear.[5]
  • Long COVID: Some researchers are investigating a potential connection between CFS/ME and the condition known as long COVID, as the symptoms can be similar.[5]

Citations:

  • [1] https://www.cdc.gov/me-cfs/about/possible-causes.html
  • [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360490
  • [3] https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-fatigue-syndrome
  • [4] https://medlineplus.gov/chronicfatiguesyndrome.html
  • [5] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

CFS is characterized by profound fatigue, sleep abnormalities, pain, and a multitude of other symptoms that are typically made worse by exertion. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Chronic fatigue lasting more than 6 months that is not alleviated by rest
  • Fatigue 12 to 48 hours after exercise that can last for days to weeks
  • Un-refreshing sleep
  • Trouble remembering, learning new things, concentrating, or decision making
  • Dizziness or fainting when standing up
  • Rapid heart rate with activity
  • Alternating between sweating too much and not sweating at all
  • Feeling burned out
  • Depression or shifting moods
  • Joint aches and muscle pains
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Migraine headaches
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)

Diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A diagnosis of CFS is based on two criteria: severity and duration (the severe and chronic tiredness lasts for more than 6 months and other medical conditions have been ruled out), and the number of symptoms (four or more symptoms of CFS are present).

Treatment Options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Conventional Treatment

There is no specific treatment for CFS, and vitamin supplements and medicines have some benefits but do not eliminate the condition. Many treatments only relieve the symptoms of CFS.

Functional and Integrative Medicine Approach

Functional medicine, a personalized and integrative healthcare model, focuses on addressing the root causes of chronic fatigue rather than just alleviating symptoms. Key aspects of functional medicine treatment for chronic fatigue include:

  • Personalized Assessment: A comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and environmental factors is essential to identify the root causes of CFS.
  • Nutritional Support: Dietary modification and functional nutritional deficiencies can help support the body’s natural healing processes.
  • Exercise and Physical Fitness: Physical fitness and exercise can improve energy levels and overall health.
  • Psychological and Physical Stress: Addressing stress and its impact on the body can help alleviate CFS symptoms.
  • Environmental Toxicity: Reducing exposure to toxins and pollutants can improve symptoms for some patients.
  • Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Addressing gastrointestinal issues, such as leaky gut, can help improve symptoms.
  • Immunological Aberrations: Supporting immune function and addressing inflammation can be beneficial.
  • Oxidative Stress: Antioxidant support can help reduce oxidative stress and improve overall health.
  • Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Addressing mitochondrial dysfunction can help improve energy production within cells.

Conclusion

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a complex and debilitating condition that requires a personalized and integrative approach to assessing and healing. Functional and integrative medicine offers a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of CFS, focusing on diet, exercise, stress management, and addressing underlying imbalances in the body. By working with a functional medicine practitioner, patients can develop a customized treatment plan to help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health.

References

  1. Functional Medicine Approach to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Functional Mitochondriopathy, and Enterohepatic Dysfunction
  3. Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with Integrative Medicine
  4. A Functional Medicine Approach To Chronic Fatigue
  5. Chronic fatigue syndrome: a personalized integrative medicine approach

Created by Perplexity API on March 21, 2024 (as Markdown)

Understanding and Mitigating Electrical Hypersensitivity (EHS)

Understanding and Mitigating Electrical Hypersensitivity (EHS)

Physiology and Mitigation

Electrical hypersensitivity (EHS), also known as electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EMF sensitivity), is a condition where individuals report experiencing adverse health effects in response to exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) [1][2]. While the scientific community remains divided on the underlying causes of EHS, research has provided some insights into the potential physiological mechanisms and approaches to managing this condition.

Physiological Theories of EHS

The exact physiological mechanisms behind EHS are still not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed:

  1. Neuroinflammation: Some studies suggest that EHS may be associated with neuroinflammation, particularly in the frontal lobes and hypothalamus[5]. This neuroinflammation could potentially account for the diverse range of symptoms reported by EHS individuals.
  2. Autonomic Nervous System Imbalance: Researchers have observed that some EHS individuals exhibit hyperreactivity in the central nervous system and imbalances in the autonomic nervous system[2]. This dysregulation may contribute to the symptoms experienced.
  3. Oxidative Stress and Free Radical Damage: Exposure to EMFs may lead to increased oxidative stress and the generation of free radicals, which could potentially damage cells and contribute to EHS symptoms[5].
  4. Genetic Susceptibility: Some studies suggest that certain genetic factors may predispose individuals to developing EHS, though more research is needed to fully understand this potential link[5].

Reducing EMF Exposure and Managing EHS

While the scientific consensus remains that there is no clear causal link between EMF exposure and EHS, individuals who experience EHS-related symptoms may benefit from the following approaches:

  1. Reducing EMF Exposure: Minimizing exposure to sources of EMFs, such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi, and power lines, may help alleviate symptoms for some EHS individuals[4].
  2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy has shown promise in helping EHS individuals cope with their condition and manage the associated psychological distress[2].
  3. Addressing Comorbid Conditions: EHS is often accompanied by other health issues, such as multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) or psychiatric disorders. Addressing these comorbidities through appropriate medical treatment may be beneficial[2].
  4. Supportive Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including stress management techniques, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet, may help alleviate some EHS-related symptoms[2].

It’s important to note that the scientific community remains divided on the validity of EHS as a distinct medical condition, and more research is needed to fully understand its underlying causes and effective management strategies. However, for individuals experiencing EHS-related symptoms, a multifaceted approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects may be the most effective way to manage this complex condition.

Citations:
[1] https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/reveh-2021-0038/html?lang=en
[2] https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/radiation-and-health/non-ionizing/emf/hypersensitivity
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7201940/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_hypersensitivity
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7139347/

Created by Perplexity.ai, April 18, 2024.

Current Theories on the Physiology of EHS

EHS is a controversial and not yet fully understood condition. The lack of conclusive evidence on its physiological basis has made it a challenging topic for researchers. However, several theories have been proposed:

  1. Nocebo Effect: Some researchers suggest that EHS may be a psychological phenomenon rather than a physiological one. The nocebo effect is the opposite of the placebo effect and refers to when negative expectations of EMF exposure lead to real physical symptoms.
  2. Calcium Ion Channels: Another theory proposes that EMF exposure may disrupt voltage-gated calcium ion channels in cells, potentially leading to changes in cellular function and the release of neurotransmitters and other chemicals that could cause symptoms.
  3. Oxidative Stress: EMF exposure might increase oxidative stress in the body, leading to cell damage and inflammation. These factors could contribute to the symptoms experienced by individuals with EHS.
  4. Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity as an Environmental Sensitivity: Some experts suggest that EHS may be a form of environmental sensitivity similar to chemical sensitivity. In this case, an individual’s immune system may overreact to EMF exposure.
  5. Altered Nervous System Functioning: Another hypothesis is that EMF exposure may alter the functioning of the nervous system, leading to heightened sensitivity to stimuli.

Created by ChatGPT 3.5 April 18, 2024

Addressing EMF Sensitivity Through a Functional Medicine Approach

Electrical hypersensitivity (EHS), also known as electromagnetic field (EMF) sensitivity, is a condition characterized by adverse health effects experienced by individuals when exposed to EMFs. While the scientific community continues to debate the underlying causes, a functional medicine approach can provide a comprehensive strategy to manage and potentially alleviate EHS symptoms.

Nutrition and Antioxidant Support

One of the key theories behind EHS suggests that EMF exposure can lead to increased oxidative stress and the generation of harmful free radicals[2][5]. To combat this, a diet rich in antioxidants can help neutralize these free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. Some beneficial antioxidant-rich foods and supplements include:

  • Melatonin: Found in foods like pistachios, walnuts, and tart cherries, melatonin is a potent antioxidant that may help protect against EMF-induced cellular changes and support healthy sleep patterns[5].
  • Resveratrol: Present in grapes, red wine, and dark chocolate, resveratrol has been shown to reduce inflammation in individuals exposed to high-intensity EMFs[5].
  • Catechins and Epicatechins: Found in green tea, dark chocolate, and berries, these compounds may protect brain tissue from EMF-induced inflammation[5].
  • Procyanidins: Extracted from lotus seeds, procyanidins have been found to protect cells from EMF-induced cell death[5].
  • Vitamin C, Glutathione, and Powdered Greens: These antioxidant supplements can help bolster the body’s defense against oxidative stress[3].

Detoxification and Reducing EMF Exposure

Functional medicine emphasizes the importance of reducing exposure to environmental toxins and supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes. In the case of EHS, this can involve:

  1. Minimizing EMF Exposure: Identifying and reducing exposure to sources of EMFs, such as wireless devices, cell phones, and power lines, can help alleviate symptoms for some individuals[1][4].
  2. Supporting Detoxification Pathways: Ensuring proper hydration, regular exercise, and adequate intake of nutrients like magnesium, B-vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids can support the body’s natural detoxification processes[1][3].
  3. Stress Management: Implementing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help regulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce the impact of EMF exposure[1].

Addressing Neuroinflammation and Autonomic Imbalance

Some theories suggest that EHS may be linked to neuroinflammation and imbalances in the autonomic nervous system[2]. To address these potential contributors, a functional medicine approach may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory Herbs and Supplements: Curcumin, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the body and brain[3].
  • Vagus Nerve Support: Practices like deep breathing, cold exposure, and certain supplements (like omega-3s and probiotics) can help regulate the vagus nerve and promote autonomic balance[3].
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This therapeutic approach can help individuals cope with the psychological distress associated with EHS and manage symptoms more effectively[2].

By combining targeted nutritional interventions, detoxification strategies, and techniques to address neuroinflammation and autonomic imbalance, a functional medicine approach offers a comprehensive and personalized way to manage EMF sensitivity and support overall health and well-being.

Citations:
[1] https://www.ruanliving.com/blog/detox-your-emfs-simple-detox-tips-to-cleanse-your-body
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/
[3] https://www.shieldyourbody.com/emf-nutrition/
[4] https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/18/10041
[5] https://myacare.com/blog/electromagnetic-fields-and-health-pt5-how-the-unseen-affects-our-cells
[6] https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/ijo.2021.5272
[7] https://www.jillcarnahan.com/2020/09/08/the-dark-side-of-technology-how-to-protect-yourself-from-emfs/
[8] https://www.brainharmony.com/blog/2021/4/17/is-your-nervous-system-at-the-root-of-your-sensitivities
[9] https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/reveh-2023-0023/html?lang=en
[10] https://dirt-to-dinner.com/electromagnetic-fields-around-us/
[11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8038719/
[12] https://consciousspaces.com/en-us/blogs/science/13-powerful-healing-supplements-to-protect-against-the-effects-of-emfs
[13] https://www.water-for-health.co.uk/blogs/blog/do-you-need-to-detoxify-heavy-metals-to-reduce-emf-impact
[14] https://centrespringmd.com/electrosensitivity-do-emfs-from-your-devices-make-you-sick/
[15] https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/radiation-and-health/non-ionizing/emf/hypersensitivity
[16] https://texasintegrative.com/multiple-chemical-sensitivity-and-emf-hypersensitivity/
[17] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7201940/
[18] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9608227/
[19] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-35086-8
[20] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6958998/

Created by Perplexity.ai, April 18, 2024.

Functional Medicine Approach to EHS

Root Cause Identification

Identifying the root cause of EHS symptoms is crucial for developing an effective management plan. Functional medicine practitioners may explore potential factors such as:

  • Oxidative Stress: Increased oxidative stress due to EMF exposure can cause cell damage and inflammation.
  • Calcium Ion Channels: Alterations in calcium ion channels may impact cellular function and neurotransmitter release.
  • Detoxification Pathways: Impaired detoxification pathways can make it more challenging for the body to eliminate toxins and respond to stress.

Personalized Management Plan

Based on the assessment and root cause identification, a functional medicine practitioner may recommend a personalized management plan to help patients manage EHS symptoms. This may include:

  • EMF Mitigation: Reducing exposure to EMFs by using wired connections, keeping devices away from the body, and creating EMF-free zones.
  • Nutritional Support: Supplementing with antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, selenium, and magnesium to combat oxidative stress.
  • Detoxification Support: Supporting the body’s detoxification pathways with targeted supplements, hydration, and lifestyle changes.
  • Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help regulate the nervous system.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Creating a healthy sleep environment by minimizing EMFs, using blackout curtains, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

Created by Chat GPT 3.5 April 18, 2024.


How to Heal Your Leaky Gut

Healing intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as “leaky gut,” involves addressing the underlying factors that contribute to the compromised integrity of the intestinal lining. While specific approaches may vary based on individual health conditions, here are general methods that are commonly suggested to support the healing of leaky gut:

  1. Dietary Changes:
    • Elimination Diet: Identify and remove potential trigger foods that may be contributing to inflammation and gut permeability. Common culprits include gluten, dairy, soy, and processed foods.
    • Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Emphasize a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish (omega-3 rich), turmeric, and ginger.
    • Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and amino acids, bone broth can support gut health and help repair the intestinal lining.1
  2. Nutrient Supplementation:
    • Probiotics: Restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Probiotics can promote a diverse microbiota and contribute to a healthier gut lining.
    • Digestive Enzymes: Support digestion and nutrient absorption by supplementing with enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food.
    • L-Glutamine: An amino acid that helps repair the intestinal lining and reduce inflammation.
  3. Gut-Supportive Supplements:
    • Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce intestinal permeability.
    • Zinc: Plays a crucial role in gut health and can support the healing of the intestinal lining.
    • Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm: These herbs can provide a soothing effect on the digestive tract and help with mucous membrane repair.
  4. Manage Stress:
    • Chronic stress can contribute to gut inflammation and compromise the integrity of the intestinal lining. Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness.
  5. Identify and Address Food Sensitivities:
    • Identify and eliminate foods that may be triggering an immune response and contributing to gut permeability. This can be done through elimination diets or food sensitivity testing.
  6. Addressing Infections:
    • Infections, such as bacterial overgrowth or parasitic infections, can contribute to gut issues. Identifying and treating these infections with the help of a healthcare professional is important for gut healing.
  7. Optimize Sleep:
    • Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, including gut repair. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night.
  8. Hydration:
    • Ensure adequate hydration to support the mucous lining of the intestines and overall digestive function.
  9. Regular Exercise:
    • Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can contribute to a healthy gut microbiota and help regulate immune function.

It’s important to note that individual responses to these strategies may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a functional medicine practitioner or a gastroenterologist, is advisable for a personalized approach based on specific health needs and conditions.

Eating to Heal Your Leaky Gut

While there is no specific “leaky gut diet” endorsed by all experts, certain foods are often recommended for their potential to support gut health and promote healing in individuals with leaky gut or intestinal permeability issues. It’s important to note that individual responses to foods can vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice is recommended. Here are some foods that are commonly considered beneficial for promoting gut health and potentially supporting the healing of leaky gut:

  1. Bone Broth:
    • Rich in collagen and amino acids, bone broth is thought to support the repair of the intestinal lining and provide essential nutrients for gut health.
  2. Fermented Foods:
    • Yogurt with live probiotics
    • Kefir
    • Sauerkraut
    • Kimchi
    • Miso
    • Tempeh
  3. Probiotic-Rich Foods:
    • These foods introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microbiota.
    • Probiotic supplements may also be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
  4. Fiber-Rich Foods:
    • Fruits (especially berries, apples, and pears)
    • Vegetables (especially leafy greens, broccoli, and carrots)
    • Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, oats)
    • Legumes (chickpeas, lentils, black beans)
  5. Healthy Fats:
    • Avocado
    • Olive oil
    • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
    • Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds)
  6. Ginger and Turmeric:
    • Both ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gut.
  7. Aloe Vera:
    • Aloe vera may have soothing effects on the digestive tract and is sometimes used to support gut health.
  8. Coconut Products:
    • Coconut oil and coconut milk may be included in the diet. They are sources of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be easier to digest.
  9. L-Glutamine-Rich Foods:
    • L-Glutamine is an amino acid that supports the health of the intestinal lining.
    • Foods rich in L-Glutamine include bone broth, cabbage, spinach, and parsley.
  10. Low-FODMAP Foods:
    • For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or sensitive guts, following a low-FODMAP diet under the guidance of a healthcare professional may help manage symptoms.

It’s crucial to note that while certain foods may be beneficial, an overall balanced and varied diet, along with a healthy lifestyle, is key for gut health. Additionally, identifying and avoiding specific trigger foods that may contribute to inflammation or irritation in the gut is an important aspect of managing leaky gut. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can help create a personalized plan based on individual health needs and conditions.

Content written by ChatGPT 3.5 on March 10, 2024

References:

  1. Lopetuso LR, Scaldaferri F, Bruno G, Petito V, Franceschi F, Gasbarrini A. The therapeutic management of gut barrier leaking: the emerging role for mucosal barrier protectors. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2015;19(6):1068-76. ↩︎

Be Ye Healthy! But Why?

There are many different reasons the world gives for wanting to live and be healthy—to take care of our children, look younger, live longer, be smarter, accomplish more—but what reasons does Scripture give for inviting us to live healthfully?  What reasons does God give for calling us to a “holy” life in body, mind, and spirit?

 “I am the LORD your God, who has set you apart from the nations. You must therefore make a distinction between clean and unclean animals and between unclean and clean birds. Do not defile yourselves by any animal or bird or anything that moves along the ground—those that I have set apart as unclean for you.” Leviticus 20:24, 25.

What reasons does God give?  What does God NOT give? He could have explained that they would live longer, or he could have pointed out how they were more likely to cause disease, but what reasons DOES he give?  “I am the Lord thy God…, therefore…”

“Designate a place outside the camp where you can go to relieve yourself… For the LORD your God moves about in your camp to protect you and to deliver your enemies to you. Your camp must be holy, so that he will not see among you anything indecent and turn away from you.” Deuteronomy 23:12, 14.

God ties our choices for health, closely to our relationship with Him! “I am the Lord thy God…, therefore.”  “The Lord your God walks…, therefore.”

“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple.” 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9.

Our choices are not made JUST because of health reasons but to shew forth the praises of Him who has made and is ONLY able to remake us inside and out.

“If any man will follow me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.” God doesn’t just want our bodies, he wants our lives, surrendered, offered on His alter.  It’s not just about health, it’s about surrendering our will, taking up our cross and following after He who knows our very being and offers us every good thing.  By our choices to restrain we demonstrate our trust and dependence on His provision of “every good and perfect thing” (James 1:17).

What are your thoughts?  Why do we choose to live (or not live) healthy holy lives?  What are some good or not so good reasons?

Taking on the Spiritual Issues

It is no doubt a daunting task to take on some of the numerous spiritual issues that arise when exploring alternative medicine methodologies.  No doubt I am far from the most qualified individual to address the multitude of complex issues involved but my own personal experience and the experiences of those I’ve watched around me lead me to believe that we must speak to these issues.  There is too much at stake.  So until I find a better voices seeking to address this void, I will do my best to speak my concerns and convictions as cogently as I can.

Unfortunately there is a dearth of scripturally sound examinations of many of the strange semi-spiritual scientific sounding healing methodologies out there.  I will attempt to link to them when I find them but will try and also spend time laying out the scriptural, theoretical, philosophical, and scientific reasons why I disagree with the methodologies to be described and believe them to more often then not be mediums for spiritual deception.

As a Seventh-day Adventist I believe in a Great Controversy worldview where the Devil is a real being who was created by an all knowing loving God who gave him the freedom to rebel and deceive those around him.  Instead of immediately destroying Lucifer and his angels, God chose the longer more painful approach of presenting truth through demonstration.  It is this approach of demonstration through evidence and appeal to examination of His Ways that I believes lies at the root of the difference between God-like and Lucifer-like healing methodologies.  Most every religion in the world has “healing” methodologies and experiences that harmonize with and support the beliefs and values of that religion. This truth has not changed in the modern scientific age. The nature and characteristics of these remedies however now includes the language and technicalities of the modern scientific era.

It is my hope that an exposure of the principles and issues at stake in the methods and characteristics used by Christ vs. those repeatedly demonstrated through Lucifer will help us become discerning and God fearing as we examine the increasing variety of holistic integrative remedies available.

For starters I encourage you to read these articles excerpted from the Journal of Christian Nursing.Energy Therapies in Christian Nursing - Part 1Energy Therapies in Christian Nursing - Part 2Energy Based Therapies in Nursing - Part 3

May we each grow day by day in the knowledge and discernment firmly grounded in love.

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment.” Philippians 1:9

Learn How to Make a Whole Food Protein Smoothie

Enjoying this great smoothie for the morning.  Added a bit of vegan protein powder to round it out.  Definitely worth a try.

Learn How to Make a Whole Food Protein Smoothie

This portable smoothie from Dr. Mark Hyman can power the busiest of days. It’s 100 percent whole, real food – with plenty of plant proteins, healthy fats, fiber, and potent phytonutrients. Ingredients: Improvise! It’s fine to use the greens, seeds, and seasonal fruits you have on hand – just strive to maintain suggested ratios.

What are Panic Attacks?

Here is a quick exploration of panic attacks as I currently understand them.  I first read about panic attacks in the book Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome.  In that book Dr. Wilson describes panic attacks as being a common first sign of what he coined “adrenal fatigue.”  Since that time much has been learned about the factors contributing to the stress hormone imbalances he described as adrenal fatigue.  In looking deeper now it looks like panic attacks may be related to more specific triggers and imbalances that though still related to the larger “HPA Axis Dysregulation” we focus on as FDNs, is more specific than the general “Adrenal Fatigue” or “Adrenal insufficiency”.  The Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis is the key stress, hormone, and energy regulation system of the body and has numerous biological inter-dependencies the body.

One of my favorite sites Diagnose-me.com lists the following potential triggers for panic attacks and potential solutions:  (1) adrenal/cortisol dysregulation (2) hormone imbalances such as low estrogens, low progesterone to estrogen ratios (2) low thyroid (often a byproduct of adrenal insufficiency), (3) high sugar diets,  and (4)  toxicity signs such as heavy metal exposure, smoking, and electrical hypersensitivity, and other internal stressors such as lyme disease.   Although they don’t specifically mention adrenal supports (i.e. adaptogens), many of the suggestions are in line with the general recommendations to decrease adrenal and hormone stressors and support the bodies internal stress response.

The best method to confirm and correct these imbalances is to take adrenal/hormone stress test such as the BioHealth 205 Adrenal/Hormone saliva test or the DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) urine test.  Both of which would give you a great picture of body’s cortisol stress response and sex hormone imbalances as well as hints for tracking down next step root cause investigations.  A thyroid test could be an option although as FDNs we find that thyroid is often a secondary issue to adrenal/hormone balance issues.

Depending on what the test indicates we would support your low cortisol or sex hormone levels in a natural way and look for root causes for high cortisol elevating stressors or sex hormone balance disrupters (i.e. liver toxins).  The general supports Diagnose-me recommends are definitely worth starting as well.

Panic Attacks

Complete information about Panic Attacks, including signs and symptoms; conditions that suggest it; contributing risk factors; conditions suggested by it.