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Nutritional Aid For Hysterectomy Related Problems
Posted On 2012-01-22 , 11:33 AM
Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and is done for many different reasons. One common reason is fibroid tumors (benign growths in the uterus that can cause problems). Other reasons for which a hysterectomy is performed include endometriosis and prolapse of the uterus.
Symptoms that lead women to consider hysterectomy are varied; but, include: urinary tract problems or incontinence; unusually long or heavy menstrual periods; a constant, heavy bloated feeling; unusual swelling in the abdominal region, due to fibroid tumors; intolerance to the medicine therapy prescribed for endometriosis; and infertility, due to fibroid tumors or endometriosis.
There are three different methods in which hysterectomy may be performed:
- Total hysterectomy - the cervix is removed along with the uterus.
- Partial hysterectomy - the uterus is removed but the cervix and other female reproductive organs are left intact.
- Pan hysterectomy - the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus are removed.
Significant problems can result for many women who have one of these procedures performed. The most obvious of these occurs when the ovaries are removed together with the uterus. Because the body is suddenly deprived of estrogen; menopause begins abruptly, with its difficulties and discomforts.
This hormonal loss in turn can lead to an increased likelihood of heart disease; a greatly increased risk of bone mass loss, which often precedes osteoporosis; as well as depression, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, joint pain, loss of libido and urinary tract problems.
Even women who keep their ovaries often experience a reduction in estrogen production and menopause comes earlier than it would have naturally. Over half of women who have partial hysterectomies experience early menopause.
The following nutritional supplements may help to counteract the unpleasant side effects of hysterectomy. A vitamin and mineral supplement regimen can reduce the risk of severe estrogen deprivation. However, discuss all supplements and medicine you are taking with your doctor; as there may be some that could have adverse effects on your surgery.
Nutritional Supplements:
Vitamin A is important in immune function and promotes tissue repair. Take 50,000 IU daily.
Vitamin B complex is needed for the nervous system and to reduce stress. Use a high stress formula. Take 100 milligrams twice daily with meals.
Vitamin C is an anti-stress vitamin also needed for tissue repair. Take 3,000 to 6,000 milligrams and up daily, in divided doses.
Vitamin E is important in estrogen production. Start with 400 IU daily and increase slowly to 1,200 IU daily.
Boron aids in calcium absorption and prevention of bone loss that can occur after hysterectomy. Take 3 milligrams daily - DO NOT exceed this amount.
Calcium is needed for the central nervous system. A lack of estrogen blocks calcium intake. Take 2,000 milligrams daily at bedtime.
Magnesium enhances the absorption of calcium. Take 1,000 milligrams at bedtime.
Potassium is needed if hot flashes occur to replace electrolytes lost through perspiration. Take 99 milligrams daily.
Zinc boosts the immune system. Use zinc gluconate lozenges for best absorption.
Take 50 milligrams daily. Do not exceed 100 milligrams daily from all supplements.
Essential fatty acids helps the body manufacture estrogen. Primrose oil is a good source. Take 1,000 milligrams 3 times daily.
L-arginine and L-lysine are essential amino acids important in recovery after surgery. Both are needed to avoid an imbalance in amino acids. Take 500 milligrams each daily an an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 milligrams vitamin B6 and 100 milligrams of vitamin C for better absorption.
Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant. This hormone is important in the production of estrogen, testosterone and other hormones. It aids sleep and stimulates the immune system. Take as directed on label.
Herbal Nutrition Supplements:
Herbs that may replenish natural estrogen levels include anise, dong quai, fennel, fenugreek, ginseng, licorice, red clover, sage and suma.
Herbs that may ease symptoms of ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids include black cohosh, black haw, blue cohosh, dandelion root, milk thistle, Pau D'arco and yarrow.
Caution: Ginseng should not be used if you have high blood pressure, hypoglycemia or a heart disorder. Licorice should not be used if you have high blood pressure, liver or kidney disorders or are pregnant. Sage should not be used if you have a seizure disorder.
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Nutritional Supplements That Improve Your Memory
Posted On 2011-12-29 , 9:58 AM
Memory is as natural as breathing, an ability we all have unless we notice that we are losing that ability. The greatest fear brought on by lapses in memory is probably that of Alzheimer's disease. Even though this is a common disorder among the elderly, it is important to be aware that most memory lapses have nothing to do with Alzheimer's disease.
People expect that as they age, their ability to remember will begin to deteriorate and their power to recall will diminish. This is not necessarily true. Aging itself has little, if any, relevance on the ability to recall information.
Infrequent memory lapses are natural at practically any age. With proper diet and nutrition the memory should remain active and sharp well into the nineties or beyond.
One reason many people suffer from memory loss is the lack of necessary nutrients to the brain. The life of the body is in the blood. It feeds and nourishes every cell within the body. The brain is surrounded by a protective cover known as the blood-brain barrier, which allows only certain substances to pass from the bloodstream into the brain.
The arteries that feed the brain are tiny to begin with, so if the blood is thick with cholesterol and triglycerides, the amount of nutrient rich blood that can pass through the blood-brain barrier decreases and over time this results in the brain becoming mal-nourished.
Also, the functioning of the brain depends on chemicals called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters act as electrical switches in the brain and, through the functioning of the nervous system, are responsible for all the functions of the body. If the brain lacks a sufficient supply of neurotransmitters, or the nutrients from which to make them, it begins to develop the biochemical equivalent of a "short circuit". If your mind goes blank when you are trying to recall a specific piece of information, or it begins to plug into some other irrelevant memory instead, it is likely that such a "short circuit" has occurred.
There are a number of other factors involved in the deterioration of memory. Probably one of the most important being exposure to free radicals, which can cause enormous damage to the memory. Hypoglycemia can play a role in memory loss as well. Wide swings in blood sugar levels affect brain function and memory. Nutritional deficiencies, especially of the B vitamins and amino acids, account for memory loss in some individuals. Other factors may include poor circulation to the brain, allergies, candidiasis, stress and thyroid disorders.
If you have; or are at risk for, memory loss you may benefit from taking the following supplements. Check with your doctor before trying any of these remedies, they may interfere with standard drug treatment.
Helpful Supplements
B complex plus extra B3, B5, and B6.
B complex is needed for improved memory. Take 100 milligrams daily.
B3 (niacin) promotes proper circulation to the brain and aids in brain function. Take as directed on label. Do not take niacin if you have gout, high blood pressure or a liver disorder.
B5 (pantothenic acid) helps in transformation of the amino acid choline to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Take 50 milligrams three times daily.
B6 (pyridoxine) is needed for proper brain function. Take 50 milligrams three times daily.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that also improves circulation. Take 3,000 to 10,000 milligrams daily.
Vitamin E causes dilation of blood vessels, improving blood flow to the brain. It protects brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. Start by taking 400 IU daily and slowly increase to 1,200 IU daily.
Acetylcholine is the most important of the neurotransmitters. It maximizes mental ability and prevents memory loss in adults. Take as directed on label.
Choline increases the levels of acetylcholine. Take 100 milligrams three times daily.
Coenzyme Q10 improves brain oxygenation. Take 100 milligrams daily.
Glutathione is one of the most important antioxidants that help support the brain against free radical damage. Take as directed on label.
Manganese helps nourish the brain and nerves and aids in the utilization of choline. Take as directed on label.
Phosphatidylserine is a fatty substance found to be helpful in preventing further deterioration in people with memory problems. Take 200 to 300 milligrams daily. Be patient. It may take up to 3 months before you notice an improvement.
Selenium may help memory loss. Take 100 micrograms daily.
Zinc is important in binding toxic substances and removing them from the brain. Use zinc gluconate lozenges for best absorption. Take 50 to 80 milligrams daily. Do not exceed 100 milligrams daily.
Herbal Supplements
Ginkgo biloba has the ability to increase blood flow to the brain, reduces free radical damage and may slow the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Take capsules as directed on the product label.
Gotu kola is referred to as; a powerful brain food, and is known for its ability to enhance mental ability. It supports and improves comprehension, memory and recollection. Take capsules as directed on the product label.
Rosemary helps blood flow to the brain. It contains carnosic acid which is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and is only activated in the presence of free radical damage with out undesirable effects on normal brain cells. Take capsules as directed on the product label.
Other herbs that are helpful for memory include anise, blue cohosh, eyebright and ginseng. Do not use blue cohosh if you are pregnant. Do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure.
Warning: If you are taking blood thinning medicine, consult with your doctor. Both Vitamin E and ginkgo biloba have mild blood thinning effects.
 
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Natural Remedies For Gastric And Duodenal Ulcers
Posted On 2011-12-14 , 11:21 AM
Ulcers are open sores or lesions in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract which form when the mucous lining fails to protect the digestive tract or when there is too much stomach acid.
There are two kinds of ulcers; gastric, which occur in the stomach, and duodenal, which form in the duodenum (the top part of the small intestine that the stomach empties into). Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers and more common in men than in women.
Those who take large doses of aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAIDS) to manage pain are at increased risk of developing ulcers. This type of ulcer will generally heal when you stop taking the medicine. A bleeding ulcer occurs when the ulcer has penetrated a blood vessel, causing it to bleed.
Spicy foods and stress were once regarded the principal cause of ulcers (although they may contribute); however, researchers have discovered bacterial infection as the culprit. Helicobacter pylori, a germ that clings to the lining of the stomach; is the only bacterium that can live in its acid environment, causing infection of the intestinal lining. A short course of antibiotics can wipe out this bacterium and offers long-term relief from ulcers.
Factors that make someone favorable to infection by H. pylori include low levels of antioxidants in the stomach and intestinal linings and low gastric acid production.
Symptoms of ulcers are sometimes misinterpreted as indigestion or heartburn and may be different for every sufferer. Symptoms of gastric ulcers may include a burning, aching or gnawing pain that occurs after eating, recurrent bloating, nausea and vomiting after eating. Symptoms of duodenal ulcers may include burning or gnawing pain that is felt right below the breastbone, stomach pain that recurs during the night or after a few hours of not eating, an uncomfortable feeling accompanying hunger, and stomach pain that is temporarily eased by taking antacids or eating.
Foods that strengthen the stomach lining include bananas and plantains, cabbage or cabbage juice, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, turnips, cauliflower, kale, green tea and figs. In addition, red and white beans and unpolished rice soak up acid in the stomach.
A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar after meals may help digestion if there is not enough stomach acid. Baby foods are good for a bleeding ulcer.
Undetected or untreated ulcers can lead to peritonitis, an inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity. An ulcer can burn a hole right through the intestine or stomach in severe cases. This is a medical emergency. Fortunately, a number of natural remedies can be used to prevent and treat ulcers before they reach this stage.
Natural Remedies:
Vitamin C helps rebuild antioxidant levels. Take 500 milligrams three times daily.
Vitamin E helps rebuild antioxidant levels. Take 100 IU three times daily.
Zinc promotes healing of the digestive tract. Take 20 - 30 milligrams daily.
Fiber is associated with a reduced rate of duodenal ulcer; it also cuts recurrence rates of the illness. Fiber promotes the secretion of mucus, which helps protect the digestive tract. Follow package directions.
Aloe vera relieves pain and promotes healing. Taken internally, aloe vera gel will soothe sore, ulcerated spots in the stomach. Take one teaspoonful twice daily.
Calendula flowers brewed in a tea can often calm burning ulcer symptoms in a matter of minutes. It has antibacterial and immune stimulating properties.
Chlorophyll is believed to be very effective in cleansing the intestinal lining and reducing irritation associated with pre-ulcerous or ulcerous conditions. Take a teaspoon of liquid chlorophyll everyday. Or try a daily eight ounce glass of green juices, such as parsley or spinach juice, which are high in chlorophyll.
Licorice root helps heal ulcers by promoting the production of mucus to protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum. It contains active substances that attack the bacteria that cause ulcers. Add licorice root extract to hot drinks, in part as herbal medicine, in part as a sweetener. Be sure to use the deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form, otherwise, the pure form of licorice can raise blood pressure.
Psyllium provides supplemental fiber. Take as needed. Start with 1/2 teaspoon psyllium seeds or powder mixed in 8 ounces of cool liquid and drink 2 to 3 cups daily. Do not take psyllium if you are taking supplemental fiber.
Other herbs that may have benefits for those with ulcers include; alfalfa, bayberry bark, burdock, chamomile, comfrey, fenugreek seeds, ginger, ginseng, marshmallow root, meadowsweet, mint, shepherd's purse and slippery elm.
Caution: All supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
Do you use any natural remedies for your ulcers?
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Herbal Steam Inhalation To Relieve Congestion
Posted On 2011-11-30 , 5:37 AM
Steam inhalation therapy opens up congested sinuses and lung passageways, allowing you to breathe easier, discharge mucus and faster healing. It is helpful in relieving congestion from a variety of respiratory and sinus conditions; such as, allergies, bronchitis, common cold and sinus infections. You may use water only; however, to enhance the effects of the treatment add herbal oils or dried or fresh herbs.
To prepare a steam inhalation treatment, you may place the hot water in either a pot or a sink; which ever method you find most comfortable and convenient. If using dried or fresh herbs, you should use an enameled or glass pot instead of a sink to hold the water. Whichever method you use, take several deep, full breaths to clear lung congestion after each steam inhalation treatment. Repeat the treatment as needed.
Procedure For Using a Pot:
If you are using dried or fresh herbs, be sure to use glass or an enameled pot only. A metal pot can cause herbs to lose some of their medicinal properties. If using water only, any type of pot will do.
Fill a wide pot with water and bring to a boil. Then remove the pot from the heat source, place it on a heatproof pad and place at a convenient height for the treatment.
Once the water stops bubbling, add dried or fresh herbs or several drops of essential oil to the water. Allow the water to cool slightly. Then hold your head over the pot and breathe in the steam; keeping your face far enough from the water so that the steam does not burn or irritate your skin (about 18 inches).
To capture the steam, drape a towel over your head and the pot creating a tent. Five to ten minutes of steam should be as much as needed to clear your congestion. You may however choose to extend the session.
Procedure For Using a Sink:
Using a sink to hold the water, fill it with very hot water. Add 2 to 5 drops of herbal oil. Keep the water hot and steamy during the treatment by allowing a small continuous trickle of hot water to flow into the basin. Your sink should have an overflow outlet to prevent the water from spilling over. Add a few more drops of the herbal oil as needed, as the water will become diluted.
Hold your face over the sink and breathe in the steam. Five to 10 minutes of steam should be sufficient enough to clear your congestion, but you may choose to extend the session. Be sure to keep your face far enough from the water so that the steam does not burn or irritate your skin. This is especially important when a child is being treated, as a child's skin is more sensitive to heat.
Herbal Remedies:
The following herbs are anti-catarrhal; actions that eliminate or prevent the formation of mucous. They may be taken in the form of capsules, teas or oils used in herbal steam inhalation.
Anise, black cohosh, black pepper, cayenne, cinnamon, coltsfoot, comfrey, eyebright, ginger, gotu kola, mullein, peppermint, sage, saw palmetto, thyme, wild cherry bark and yerba santa.
The following herbs are expectorants that make it easier to excrete mucus from the lungs, sinuses and throat. They may be used individually or in combination with one another or in combination with the demulcent herbs (listed below).
Camphor, coltsfoot, comfrey, elecampane, eucalyptus, fenugreek, garlic, horseradish, licorice, lobelia, mullein, pleurisy root, rosemary, thyme, and yerba santa.
The demulcent herbs contain substances that soften and relieve irritation of the mucous membranes. They may be used individually or in combination with one another or in combination with the expectorant herbs (listed above).
Burdock, chickweed, coltsfoot, marshmallow, mullein and slippery elm.
All herbal supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
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Nutritional Remedies For Dermatitis - Eczema
Posted On 2011-11-13 , 6:00 AM
Eczema; also known as atopic or contact dermatitis, can appear at any age and often runs in families with history of allergic disorders such as hay fever and asthma. Other causes may be food allergies, sensitivity to perfumes and chemical reactions. In addition, skin eruptions can be intensified by anger, anxiety or frustration.
Other characteristics shared by those with eczema are dry skin, thickened skin with a limited capacity to hold water, an overgrowth of bacteria and the tendency of the skin to thicken when scratched or rubbed.
Eczema is unpredictable and can strike any part of the body; however, most outbreaks occur on the creases of the elbows, knees, wrists, behind the ears and on the face. When you scratch the area, the skin gets rough, scaly and thick and may cause the skin to become crusty and ooze.
If you have sensitive skin - avoid everything that causes allergic reactions or irritates the skin. Wear cotton instead of silk, synthetics or wool. Keep your skin moisturized by frequently applying moisturizer or by taking quick baths or showers.
If you suspect you have developed eczema, your condition should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor. Outbreaks can be treated at home; except when you develop an open sore that shows signs of infection. Look for swelling, yellowish discharge or pus and red streaks in the area of the sore.
Deficiencies often seen in people with eczema include zinc and the fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Evidence supports the use of essential fatty acids to reduce inflammation and one or more bioflavonoids to reduce histamine release.
Nutritional and supplemental treatment of eczema focuses on preventing the release of excess histamine and providing nutrients that offer anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic benefits.
The following supplements may help bring relief for the symptoms of eczema.
Helpful Supplements:
Vitamin A in the form of beta carotene is needed for smooth skin and aids in preventing dryness. Take 50,000 to 75,000 IU daily for one month, then 25,000 IU daily as maintenance. If you are pregnant - do not exceed 10,000 IU daily.
B complex is needed for proper circulation, healthy skin and aids in reproduction of all cells. A deficiency of any of the B vitamins can cause dermatitis. However, when combined with 500 milligrams of vitamin C, 50 milligrams of B6, plus 100 milligrams of pantothenic acid it has an antihistamine effect that may alleviate atopic dermatitis. Take one high potency tablet; B complex, three times a day.
Vitamin C. Studies show that vitamin C improves, sometimes clears and helps prevent recurrences of dermatitis. Take 1,000 to 3,500 milligrams in divided daily doses.
Zinc restores low zinc levels usually seen in people with eczema - it also promotes tissue repair. Take 45 to 60 milligrams daily; reducing to 30 milligrams once eczema clears.
Evening primrose oil restores GLA levels. Take two 500 milligram capsules three times daily. It can also be applied topically once a day to reduce inflammation and redness. (Puncture the capsule; squeeze out contents; apply to area).
Omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oils and flaxseed work the same way as evening primrose oil. In some studies even greater benefits were found with fish and flaxseed oils. Take as directed on label with food.
Quercetin is a bioflavoniod that helps inhibit the body's release of histamine. It can act in a manner similar to medicine prescribed by doctors. Take 400 milligrams twenty minutes before meals.
Grape seed extract is also a flavonoid that can have an anti-histamine effect. Take 50 to 200 milligrams three times daily.
Oatmeal baths can help soothe itchy skin. Use a commercial product; follow package instructions.
Herbal Supplements:
Aloe vera gel is one of the oldest remedies for irritated skin, it relieves both itching and pain and is believed to speed healing.
Burdock, chickweed or red clover are considered the most effective herbal treatment for eczema when 2 cups of the tea are taken internally each day and another cup sponged over the eruptions.
Chamomile has been found to be very effective in reducing inflammation and itching of eczema. It contains natural anti-inflammatory chemical flavonoids. Try cream or lotion; some people find it very soothing. Caution: Do not use chamomile if you are allergic to ragweed.
Ginkgo biloba contains terpene molecules that may block key chemical mediators in eczema. Studies have shown the standardized extract demonstrated clinically significant anti-allergy effects. Take 80 to 120 milligrams of extract divided into two or three doses daily. Caution: Do not use if taking blood thinning medications.
Green tea is both an anti-histamine and anti-allergenic. Take 200 to 300 milligrams three times daily.
Licorice taken orally is both anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic and may have both internal and external beneficial effects for dermatitis. When applied topically it is very similar to hydorcortisone creams in the treatment of several different types of dermatitis. Take ONE of the following three times daily.
1.) 1 to 2 grams powered root OR
2.) 2 to 4 milliliters fluid extract OR
3.) 250 to 500 milligrams dry powdered extract
Topically - in gel form; apply as needed to ease symptoms. Caution: Licorice should not be taken orally by those who have high blood pressure, liver or kidney disorders, or are pregnant. It also should not be taken with diuretics or oral corticosteroids.
Other herbal supplements that may have supportive and toning effects on the skin include basil, chaparral, comfrey, gotu kola and horsetail.
All nutritional supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
Do you know of any nutritional remedies for eczema?
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