Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP



Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP

96 Garibaldi Ave

Roseto, PA 18013

Ph: 610-588-6563

Fax: 570-420-2473

email: drallen@

Vern Enge, Editor

Advance for Respiratory Care Practitioners

Marion Publications Inc.

2900 Horizon Drive

King of Presia, PA 19406

Ph: 610-278-1400

Fax: 610-278-1425

Hi Vern,

Hope you had a nice holiday. A couple of months ago we discussed the possibility of a series of articles on alternative heath care options. At that time I submitted a couple sample article for review. They, however were not final drafts.

The following pages are the first four articles (including the final drafts of the two originals) for submission. Each article is about 1,000 words. A by-line is submitted for each article as a disclaimer against these being taken as medical advise, . . legalese jargon.

Other than the first article (an explanation between allopathy and holistic methods, which is meant to “kick-off” the series), there is no particular order for publication.

As I mentioned, I’m convinced the interest in these articles will be enormous and suitable for publication in each of the Advance Magazines disciplines. A growing number of healthcare workers (RNs, RRTs, PTs, RTs, MLT, administrators, physicians, etc.) continue to seek my advise as to alterative methods for dealing with their own, their loved one’s, and even their patient’s illnesses. Each has concluded that the synthetic drug route of allopathy is either not working, or is not an option they which to pursue.

For editing purposes, I have also submitted these articles to you via e-mail. Finally, if these articles prove successful, the potential topics are all but endless.

Sincerely,

Desmond Allen

Article #1 (1153 word) - to "Kick-off" the series

Alternative Healthcare for Traditional Healthcare Professionals

Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP

Dr. Allen presents a naturopathic philosophy. He does not advise the reader to arbitrarily abandon prescribed allopathic therapies. But he does encourage everyone to take responsibility for his/her own healthcare decisions, and to seek the advise of an alternative healthcare professional before implementing any naturopathic remedies.

In spite of continuous research projects and a steady stream of new, more potent, medications flooding the market, still we are losing the battle against asthma. By some estimates, the mortality rate for pediatric asthma has increased 50% in less than a decade.1 But this is only a fraction of the health risks facing our nation. Cancer, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, allergies, heart disease and others have increased dramatically over the last several decades.

But I am convinced that it need not be this way. At issue, is the basic philosophical understanding of what is health, and how best is it attained? There are two fundamentally difference views. One held by allopathy, the other by naturopathy, homeopathy, and other alternative holistic health disciplines. Although allopathy is now considered traditional medicine (at least in the Western world), it is not the oldest, or even the most logical.

The early works in physics, chemistry and pathology during the 1600s, paved the way for modern allopathy. But it wasn’t launched into its present popularity until the early 1900s. The AMA was establishment in 1849, largely to compete with homeopathy. A series of events would transpire over the next fifty or sixty years that would galvanize a place in modern medicine for both the pharmaceutical industry and allopathy. The allopathic surgeons of the Civil War coupled with the pharmaceutical companies–whose post Civil War prominence was a demonstration of marketing genius. Substantial grants from the Rockefeller foundation soon followed and prompted the conformity and uniformity of allopathic medical schools. To complete the coup d’etat, legislation was passed to outlaw other, non AMA approved, medical practitioners.

The result was an unprecedented monopoly on healthcare, that still exists today and is still largely controlled by the pharmaceutical companies. Nevertheless, the practice of holistic and other natural healing methods have existed and proven effective for thousands of years.

Both philosophies agree on basic cytology; that each cell is bathed in a nutritional extracellular environment. And each philosophy understands that potential invaders (bacteria, virus, etc), are ever present, lurking, seeking opportunity to strike. But here the two philosophies part company. Each having different answers to the fundamental questions of: How do these invader strike? How best to defend against them? And, how best to repel them once they have invaded? Although it may sound trivial, the schism is deep, with divers and far-reaching implications.

The fundamental belief of allopathy is that the invader must be killed, inhibited or excised. After a definitive diagnosis, a cure is prescribed: a medication, radiation, surgery, etc. What evoked this cellular invasion is of little or not concern. The primary issue is to get rid it.

Conversely, naturopathy believes the invader took advantage of the cell's weakened defense; made so by an imbalance or deficiency of necessary nutrients in its extracellular environment. Barring exceptional circumstances, this philosophy believes that cells necessarily have the ability to defend against these invaders. But they must be supplied the proper ammunition, the nutrients, to accomplish their task.

Another distinguishing feature is that this philosophy does not attempt to diagnose or treat a particular disease, which is the hallmark of allopathy. It views these symptoms as manifestations of a deeper problem. Therefore, rather than merely identifying and suppressing symptoms, holistic methods treat the whole patient and seek to correct the underlying cause of this symptomology. Thus, while allopathy would diagnose asthma, eczema and food allergies as three different diseases and treat each with a different supply of synthetic substances; the naturopath might conclude that each symptom stems from a common deficiency or imbalance, and therefore seek to correct the underlying imbalance with a proper diet and organic herbal supplements if necessary.

Why are "diseases" such as asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, attention deficit disorder, and allergies so prevalent and on the rise our Western society? I don't think we want to hear the answer. Many believe it can be traced to two factors that have greatly altered our Western lifestyle over the last several decades. One is our poor diet; enormous quantities of processed foods, hydrogenated vegetable oil and refined sugars. It is difficult to fill a shopping cart without them.

As early as 1978, Dr. Ballentine, reported that since World Was II, the consumption of soft drinks has increase 80%, pastries 70%, and potato chips 85%, while at the same time the consumption of dairy products has decrease 21%, vegetables 23%, and fruits 25%. The primary ingredients in most of the poor-quality foods are hydrogenated fats and refined sugars, making the average diet for most westerners about 60% to 70% hydrogenated fat and sugar. He points out that little room is left for true nutrients.2 Doubtless, the statistic have only worsened.

Hydrogenated vegetable oil is a non-food. It is a saturated fat constructed from unsaturated oils to which hydrogen atoms have been forced to adhere. The body has no use for this virtual synthetic food; which arguably, is a poison.3 Meanwhile, for the body to metabolize the high volume of refined sugars we consume it must draw upon, and deplete, its own resources that are normally replenished by real foods. The daily consumption of these non-foods eventually creates an unbalanced environment for the cells, thereby leaving them open to attack.

The second factor to greatly alter our Western society, and here is the rub, are the synthetic drugs that we seem not to be able to live without. We have consumed then since infancy, believing they will cure us, right up until we die. By the time we become members of the AARP, we might depend on three, six or even ten of them. Each prescribed for a different "disease" (or perhaps to counteract the side effects of yet another drug), and each altering the bodies chemistry, inhibiting or preventing normal cellular function.

Although they may relieve or temporarily mask symptoms, they do not cure. Often they aggravate the real problem and set the stage for future trouble. Depending upon the particular imbalance created by our poor nutrition and synthetic substance consumption,4 we wait, defenseless against the attack of various invaders. As the battle is lost at the cellular level symptoms, or diseases if you prefer, manifest.

While allopathic pharmacopoeia changes its list of drugs and diseases every few years (due to proven failure), the argument for proper nutrition has been virtually unchanged throughout recorded history. The holistic philosophy of naturopathy has thousands of years and volumes of recent case studies to support it. Indeed, it was the "holistic physician" Hippocrates (often touted as the father of medicine), who said "Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food." This philosophy is still alive today. In recent years, Nobel prize winner Dr. Linus Pauling has concluded that most disease could be eliminated with proper nutrition.5

1 Healthcare Advisory Board, Pediatric Asthma Management Programs, January 1999.

2 Ballentine Rudolph. Diet and Nutrition. Honesdale, PA: The Himalayan International Institute; 1978.

3 Morter Ted. Health and Wellness. Hollywood, FL: Fredrick Fell Publisher, Inc.; 2000.

4 Atkins Robert. Dr. Atkins’ Health Revolution.

5 Holford Patrick. The Optimum Nutrition Bible. Freedom, CA: The Crossing Press; 1999.

(918 words)

Sinusitis--Alternative Healthcare for Traditional Healthcare Professional

Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP

Dr. Allen presents a naturopathic philosophy. He does not advise the reader to arbitrarily abandon prescribed allopathic therapies. But he does encourage everyone to take responsibility for his/her own healthcare decisions, and to seek the advise of an alternative healthcare professional before implementing any naturopathic remedies.

A lingering bout of sinusitis can be a most annoying condition. Aside form the irritation and embarrassment of continual sniffling, blowing and sporting a red nose, there is the discomfort of sinus pressure, headache and poor sleep. True, there are synthetic pharmaceuticals that provide some relief, but we are all aware of their short comings.

On the other hand, nature has provided a number of organic substances that prove very effective for relieving the ill effects of sinusitis. It’s quite amazing that these natural remedies go virtually unnoticed in our society. But then, we are a society that revolves around making a buck. And what pharmaceutical company could successfully market such advanced substances as garlic or oregano.

Indeed, these two herbs are possibly the best kept secretes of the pharmaceutical industry. Granted, both of them have a distinct odor, but then, so do the putrid perfumes most people wear. I’m convinced that one of the more popular fragrances, worn by many of our senior citizens, is packaged and sold as a popular ant spray under another name.

But that’s another issue . . . back to sinusitis. If there is a mild fever, yellow or green purulent mucus, garlic is an invaluable anti-inflammatory and antibiotic. It contains a remarkably high level of sulfur-containing volatile oils that are easily absorbed and circulated throughout the system. Two or three gloves, two or three time a day should do.1 Of course garlic capsules are available with much of the odor producing “allicin” removed, but they are more costly. Oil of oregano is also an effective antiviral, antibiotic and antioxidant. As a member of the mint family it is also a diaphoretic, expectorant, and an excellent treatment for colds and sinusitis.2 A few drops under the tongue and a drop under the nares can bring instant relief from persistent sinus congestion.

Ma Huang, is a very effective decongestant and astringent.3 However, you will not want to take this before bedtime, at least, not if you plan to sleep. Also, because it contains adrenalin, ephedrine, and nor-epinephrine, it should be used in moderation and with caution. It can be contraindicated in such disorders as anxiety, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure.1 It is best to consult a local alternative medical professional before use.

Echinacea and goldenseal are very helpful. They are alteratives and anti-inflammatories that stimulates the immune system and counteract pus. Goldenseal is an astringent that dries and cleanses mucous membranes and inhibits drainage.3

A tea made of grindellia and yerba santa is an effective expectorant, antispasmodic, and sedative that soothes mucous membranes. Boneset tea can also help break sinus congestion. It is an expectorant, and an antipyretic that combats inflammation, pain, and infection anywhere in the body.

Your local herbalist can provide you with certain compounds made of natural herbs that have long proven traditions. For example, an effective astringent, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant, is a compound made of the liquid extracts of eyebright, goldenseal, horseradish, nettle, and yellow flower. For acute conditions associated with fever, infection, and inflammation, another helpful compound is the liquid extracts of red clover blossom, licorice root, buckthorn bark, burdock seed, stillingia root, Oregon grape root, phytolacca root, prickly ash root, and wild indigo. These herbs work synergistically through the lymph, glandular and mucous membranes systems to promote the breakdown and elimination of metabolic wastes.4

Other herbs such as anise, fenugreek, thyme, horseradish marshmallow, and red clover help to loosen phlegm and clear nasal passages. Mullein, horsehound, and flaxseed oil can reduce inflamation and bring relief. Feverfew is known for relieving headaches. Supplements of vitamins A, C, bioflavonoids, beta-carotene, coenzyme Q10 and Zinc are also very helpful for boosting the immune system.1

Various cell salts are effective as well. Calcium phosphate, for an albuminous discharge; sodium chloride, if the discharge is clear, watery; potassium chloride, if white, fibrous; potassium sulphate, if sticky, yellow or green; calcium fluoride, if yellow, lumpy; and if the discharge is purulent, alternate calcium sulphate with silica oxide. If there is inflammation, alternate with iron phosphate.

Ceratin localized treatments are also suggested. An intra-nasal douche with goldenseal tea. A warm solution with sea salt and bicarbonate of soda is also an effective lavage. Swabbing the nasal passages with the oil of bitter orange, or placing a few drops of the oil of oregano in the nares can bring relief. So too will the inhalation of a steam with oregano or marjoram. A poultice made of menthol, eucalyptus, or ginger placed over the sinuses can also be of benefit.1

Some have reported relief from the raw, burning sensation and from the accompanying headache, by placing a few drops of vitamin E oil in the nostrils a few times a day.

Other, temporary lifestyle changes are also in order. Increase the consumption of raw vegetable and reduce the consumption of table salt and dairy products. Sugar is out. So too is smoking. Drink plenty of distilled water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and hot beverages. It is recommended that you bring the mucus into the back of your throat and then expectorate, rather than blowing nose. Such pressure can force the mucus back into the sinus cavities.1

You’ll be amazed at the effectiveness of some of these simple remedies. Perhaps the most impressive, of which I have personalty heard numerous testimonies from chronic sinusitis sufferers is the oil of oregano. I continually hear of its wonderful, life altering effects: sinus passage are opened, headaches subside, sleep is permitted, etc.

References

1 Balch James F and Balch Phyllis A. Perscription for Natural Healing. 2nd ed.; Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group; 1997, pp. 476-8.

2 Michael Tierra. Planetary Herbology. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press; 1988, p. 151.

3 Pederson Mark . Natural Herbology. 4th ed.; Warsaw, IN: Wendell W. White Company; 1998, p. .

4 Smith Ed. Therapeutic Herbal Manual. 2nd ed.; not listed: 1993, pp. 22, 46.

Asthma - Alternative Healthcare for Traditional Healthcare Professional

Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP

Dr. Allen presents a naturopathic philosophy. He does not advise the reader to arbitrarily abandon prescribed allopathic therapies. But he does encourage everyone to take responsibility for his/her own healthcare decisions, and to seek the advise of an alternative healthcare professional before implementing any naturopathic remedies.

Although the allopathic definition for asthma seems to change every few years, doubtless the characteristic symptomology has been the same since man took his first breath. Unfortunately, and curiously, the asthmatic population has increased dramatically in recent years.1 But naturopathy has a persuasive argument for this dilemma. The increasingly poor nutritional value of the virtual non-foods on which our society subsists (especially our children), has impaired our immune systems, making them venerable to attack by various allergens that would normally be keep at bay. Thus, the treatment is three-fold. Identify and avoid allergens. Restore proper cellular and immune system functions. And provide supplemental nutrients that address symptomology.

Most asthmatics are well aware of their particular triggers: dust, pollens, animal dander, molds, fumes, aspirin, etc. But a primary, and generally overlooked, condition that sets the stage for these triggers is often a chronic allergic reaction to common, even favorite, foods or their additives.3-7 Although such allergies may go undetected by modern allergy tests, they can be identified by other, practical measures such as a rotation or elimination diet.3

There seems to be is a link, proportionally, to the ever-increasing consumption of foods with little or no nutritional value and the growing number of asthmatics. As the national dependence upon processed foods increases, so too do the asthmatics. The metabolism of these non-foods and empty calories rob us of nutrients needed to maintain healthy immune systems.8 Real foods replace these nutrients, but processed foods leave the body naked, unprotected against the enemy, and forced to resort to defensive allergic reactions. The simply suppression of these reactions with synthetic drugs has proven to be an inadequate solution.

Westerners want and expect a potion for every illness. This permits indulgence and requires no change in lifestyle. Thus, the popularity of allopathy. Permit me to mix a couple of metaphors; there are no "magic bullets" to let us "have our cake and eat it too."

Step One

Identify and avoid foods that provoke attacks. Many common foods are known to cause either postponed or immediate allergic reactions: milk, chocolate, wheat, citrus, food colorings, eggs, fish, shellfish, alfalfa, corn, peanuts, soy, beets, carrots, colas, red meats, pork, poultry, salt, sulfites, spinach, white flour and refined sugar. But there are many other culprits as well.

Step Two

Restore the immune system. Maintain a balanced diet especially high in fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, brown rice and whole grains. Avoid refined sugars and hydrogenated oils. Avoid animal products as much as possible. This is not a pitch for vegetarianism, but many asthmatics have an imbalance in fatty acid metabolism.9 This contributes to an increased production of leukotrienes, which are 1,000 times more potent broncho-constrictors than are histamines.3

There are specific foods that help to prevent or relieve asthmatic symptoms. Eat them regularly. Garlic and onions inhibit enzymes that promote the release of inflammatory chemicals. The capsaicin in chilli peppers helps desensitize mucosa to various irritants and has even been reported to give relief during attacks. A locally produced honey or bee pollen is an age-old method of increasing tolerance to local pollens. Because of its moisture absorbing ability it also relieves inflammation and soothes painful coughing spells. Of course, it should not be given to infants.

Green tea has mild bronchodilation and antioxidant actions. Kelp and pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium--another mild bronchodilator. Grains and fish are high in selenium, which contains an enzyme very important for reducing leukotriene formation. Acerola fruit, broccoli, horseradish, cauliflower, rose hips, lemon, papaya, cabbage, oranges, and asparagus, are also a most for asthmatics. They are high in Vitamin C, a significant factor in the metabolism of fatty acids, thereby inhibiting leukotriene production.

Another helpful dietary procedure is a three-day fast each month. Drinking only a combination of distilled water and lemon juice will help rid the body of toxins and mucus.10

Step Three

Several herbs and supplements have proven effective.2,3 11-14 Here are but a few of them. Use as suggested by the distributor or your local alternative health care provider.

Marshmallow and Fenugreek: anti-inflammatory, bronchodilation, reduces mucus production, relieves coughing, expectorant. Anemarrhena and Astragalus: soothes inflamed bronchi, fights infection. Ephedra and Passion Flower: decongestant, relieves allergies. Mullein oil: stops coughing, reduces mucus production. Bugleweed: bronchodilator. Lobelia extract: bronchodilator, expectorant. Licorice root: cough suppressant, expectorant, anti-allergy activities, an anti-inflammatory similar to cortisone. Chinese skullcap: inhibits allergic, inflammatory agents. Grape seed: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant. Pau d’arco: natural antibiotic, anti-inflammatory.

Certain minerals are very important as well. Proper levels of magnesium--mild bronchodilator, calcium, selenium help to avoid attacks. Some herbs high in magnesium are Irish moss, licorice root, nettle leaf, peppermint leaf, dog grass, boneset, dulse, white willow bark, burdock root, althea root, astragalus root, and Siberian ginseng root. Some herbs high in selenium are hibiscus flower, catnip, dog grass, milk thistle, lemon grass, lady’s slipper, yarrow flower, valerian root, barberry root, blessed thistle, bayberry root, althea root, dulse, and sarsaparilla root. Some common herbs for calcium are valerian root, buchu leaf, kelp, pau d’ arco bark, cabbage, nettle leaf, barberry bark, and dandelion.

Flaxseed, evening primrose, and borage oil promote production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. L-Cystine and L-Methionine can reduce inflammation and repair lung tissue. Vitamin B complex is an anti-allergen and anti-inflammatory. Vitamin B6 helps correct blocked tryptophan metabolism, common in asthmatics. Tryptophan converts to serotonin, a known broncho-constrictor. B12 improves sleep, appetite and shortness of breath on exertion, especially in those with sulphate sensitivities. The same glands that secrete hydrochloric acid also secrete a substance that makes Vitamin B12 absorption possible.

Vitamin C deficiencies are also common in asthmatics. Yet it is key to the metabolism of fatty acids, thereby contributing to the decreased production of leukotrienes. Potent antioxidant. Oxidizing agents can stimulate bronchial constriction and allergic reactions. Vitamins E, and A with its B-carotenes: potent antioxidants.

1 H Yoos, et all, “An Asthma Management Program for Urban Minority Children, Journal of Pediactric Health Care. March/April, 1997.

2 Balch James F and Balch Phyllis A. Perscription for Natural Healing. 2nd ed.; Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group; 1997.

3 Murray Michael and Pizzorno Joseph. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing; 1991.

4 Oehling A. Importance of Food Allergy in Childhood Asthma. Allergol Immunopathol Suppl 1981; (IX): 71-3.

5 Bock SA. Food Allergy in Childhood Asthma. J. Asthma. 1983; 20: 377-81.

6 Ogle KA and Bullocks JD. Children with Allergic Rhinitis and/or Bronchial Asthma Treated with Elimination Diet: a Five-Year Follow-Up. Ann Allergy 1980; 44: 273-8.

7 Pelikan Z. Nasal Response to Food Ingestion Challenge. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1988; (114): 525-30.

8 Ballentine Rudolph. Diet and Nutrition. Honesdale, PA: The Himalayan International Institute; 1978, p.9.

9 Bray GW. The hypochlorhydria of asthma in childhood. Quart J Med 1931: (24) 181-97.

10 Adams Rex. Miracle Medicine Foods. New York: Parker Publishing Company, Inc.; 1977.

11 Pederson Mark . Natural Herbology. 4th ed.; Warsaw, IN: Wendell W. White Company; 1998.

12 Hutchens Alma R. Indian Herbology of North America. Boston: Shambhala Publications, Inc.; 1973.

13 Edward Shook. Advanced Treatise in Herbology. Warsaw, IN: Wendell W. Whitman Co.; 1999.

14 Michael Tierra. Planetary Herbology. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press; 1988.

(1222 words)

Gout - Alternative Healthcare for Traditional Healthcare Professionals

Desmond Allen, PhD, RCP

Dr. Allen presents a naturopathic philosophy. He does not advise the reader to arbitrarily abandon prescribed allopathic therapies. But he does encourage everyone to take responsibility for his/her own healthcare decisions, and to seek the advise of an alternative healthcare professional before implementing any naturopathic remedies.

Acute gout is an intensely painful, inflammatory, condition generally affecting the first joint of the big toe, the heel, ankle, instep, knee, wrist or even fingers--at least at first. As the condition progresses, other symptoms may evolve. Both arthritis and kidney stones are associated with gout. A flair-up can last from days to months and be so painful that even the weight of a sheet and blanket on the afflicted area is unbearable.

Some 90% to 95% of the sufferers are men over the age of thirty. Most women sufferers are generally postmenopausal. Historically, it is referred to as the rich man’s disease. There is good reason for this. It’s a metabolic disorder associated with hyperuricemia and a common cause for high uric acid levels is the excessive consumption of rich foods and alcohol. Meat is a high purine food. Purines breakdown to form uric acid. Alcohol inhibits the kidney’s secretion of uric acid. High uric acid levels produce monosodium urate monohydrate crystals. These urate crystals lodge in various tissues (cartilage, subcutaneous, periarticular, tendons, bone, kidneys, etc.) to create tophi. The subsequent inflammatory reaction to these nodular deposits is very, very painful.1-2

Aside form the acute inflamation, there may be long-term or reoccurring effects as well. After the initial onset, some 93% will generally suffer another bout within the first year. About 90% experience some degree of kidney dysfunction, and the risk for kidney stones increases considerably. Thus, from the naturopathic viewpoint, it’s best to get a handle on it from the get-go. But here, as is so often the case, the allopathic and holistic philosophies differ.

It’s not surprising that the allopathic treatment (i.e. drug therapy) concentrates on “the acute arthritis first and the hyperuricemia later, if at all. . . .”1 The Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment textbook (the allopathic physician’s bible) even questions the need to restrict foods high in purine, actually arguing that the abstinence from these foods cannot be expected to contribute significantly to the management of the disease. Given such blatantly ignorant advise, it is also not surprising that the outcomes of allopathic treatment as rather dismal.

Although the drug of choice--an anti-inflammatory called colchicine, does bring some improvement--due to gastrointestinal side effects, about 80% of the patients cannot tolerate the optimal dose. Furthermore, like so much of modern pharmacopeia, there is evidence of several detrimental side effects: bone marrow depression, hair loss, liver damage, depression, seizures, respiratory depression and even death.2

The holistic or naturopathic treatment takes a different, more effective, and certainly safer approach. Despite the “prevailing wisdom” of modern allopathy, diet definitely makes a difference. This was proven centuries ago and is no longer even worthy of debate..

What to Avoid

Despite the advise of the authoritative “Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment,” definitely avoid foods high in purine (e.g. meats--especially kidney, liver and other organs, shellfish, sardines, anchovies, brewer’s and baker’s yeast). Purines breakdown into uric acid. Also limit the excess of other moderate protein foods such as dried legumes, spinach, asparagus, fish, poultry and mushrooms. Avoid alcohol. It inhibits the excretion of uric acid. Avoid saturated fats. They promote uric acid retention. Avoid refined carbohydrates. They increase uric acid production.

Limit foods that leave an acid ash (e.g. bread, eggs, cheese, yogurt, flour, wheat germ, honey, cow’s milk, noodles, oatmeal, peanuts, sunflower seeds, walnuts, a few fruits and vegetables, prunes, plums, peas, currants, barley, rice, squash, oat bran, and corn). Avoid high levels of vitamin C. It could increase uric acid levels. And avoid high levels of niacin. It competes with uric acid for excretion.

Pro-Active Steps

There are a number of things to do proactively, to help avoid acute flare-ups. Drink plenty of fluids. This will dilute and promote the excretion of the uric acid. Thus, it will decrease the risk of kidney stones. If overweight, shed a few pounds. This will decrease serum uric acid. Eat foods with an alkaline ash (e.g. molasses, almonds, apples–unpeeled, cherries, cucumbers, carrots, oranges, limes, raisins, grapes, figs, dates, apricots bananas, onions, potatoes, radishes, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, most fruits and vegetables, etc.).3 This will promote uric acid solubility. Celery juice diluted in distilled water is another of natures simply remedies that can bring relief.4

There are two nutritional supplements that top the list. Many individuals have reported great success with either of these two simple remedies. Indeed, if you suffer from gout the next few paragraphs could change your life.

Eat cherries! Lots of them, as many as half a pound a day. They have proven themselves over and over again. Relief has even been reported with frozen cherries and cherry extract. Cherries help lower uric acid, thereby relieving acute attacks and helping to prevent future bouts. They are rich in flavonoids--as are other dark reddish-purple berries such as hawthorn berries, strawberries and blueberries. These flavonoids have several benefits. They have unique, positive affects on collagen metabolism, promoting the formation of connective tissue and inhibiting effects of enzymes released during inflamation. They prevent free radical damage. And they prevent the release and synthesis of compounds such as histamine, serine protease, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, that promote inflammation.2

Another of nature’s simple remedies for this painful condition is apple cider. It has especially proven effective when combined with hydrangea root–which has natural stone-solvent properties. Apples, on the other hand are rich in various phosphates and cell salts. Dr Snook suggests placing 2 oz of hydrangea root in 1 quart of apple cider. Let it stand for twelve hours, then bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. When it cools, bottle it and keep it in a cool place. Drink about 4 oz three of four times a day.5

Other Supplements

A number of other supplements can be beneficial as well. Folic acid can inhibit the enzyme “xanthin oxidase,” which is responsible for producing uric acid. Studies have shown that it does a better job than does the allopathic drug “allopurinol,” which is designed for this purpose. Both EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and vitamin E, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. Bromelain, the proteolytic enzyme of pineapple is a potent anti-inflammatory. Quercetin, is a bioflavonoid that has many of positive affects. It inhibits also xanthine oxidase, leukotriene synthesis and release and neutrophil accumulation. The amino acids alanine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid can also lower serum uric acid levels by promoting its excretion.2 It has also been suggested that a deficiency in vitamin B5, A, and or E, can provoke an attack.4

Herbal Supplements

Certain herbs have a long history as effective treatments for Gout. Devils Claw, is an anti-inflammatory and it lowers uric acid levels. Alfalfa is rich in minerals and nutrients, and also helps to lower uric acid content. Horsetail is used for joint inflammations and is a urinary tract astringent and diuretic used to purge toxins. Dandelion root is a laxative, tonic and diuretic used for various liver and spleen ailments, as well as gout and rheumatism.6 A paste made of cayenne powder and wintergreen oil is suggested as a topical remedy for pain relief. It may take several, repeated applications to the affected area.4

There are viable alternatives for gout victims. This condition is too painful and too easily controlled to settle for the ill-informed advise of modern medical wisdom.

References

1 Lawrence M Tierney, Jr, Stephen J McPhee, and Maxine A Papadakis, eds. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment. Appleton & Lang, 1995, 3rd edition) pp 698-702.

2 Murray Michael and Pizzorno Joseph. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing; 1991.

3 Morter Ted. Health and Wellness. Hollywood, FL: Fredrick Fell Publisher, Inc.; 2000.

4 Balch James F and Balch Phyllis A. Perscription for Natural Healing. 2nd ed.; Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group; 1997.

5 Edward Shook. Advanced Treatise in Herbology. Warsaw, IN: Wendell W. Whitman Co.; 1999.

6 Pederson Mark . Natural Herbology. 4th ed.; Warsaw, IN: Wendell W. White Company; 1998.

................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download