Health Answers

Healthy answersHow Serious Is Gluten Ingredients? You Might Want To Read This.

A New Way To Fight Depression

This Organ May Be Large But It's Still Vulnerable

Low Libido In Women: "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
Is Abdominal Pain And Diarrhea Making Food Your Enemy?

Is Inflammation Your Defender Or Ruthless Destroyer?

You Could Have Diabetes And Not Even Know It- Part I

Middle-Aged Men Are Twice As Likely As Women To Have Diabetes- Part II
You May Be One Of The Millions Suffering From This Mystery Illness

Is Your Inner Voice Trying To Tell You Something?


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The Ins And Outs Of A Gluten-Free Diet

You may be hearing a lot about gluten these days and wondering what the fuss is about. There are gluten-free breads and other specialty products in stores, and you may have friends who follow gluten-free diets. Here are the facts about gluten and some information to help you decide if a gluten-free diet may be right for you.
What is Gluten Anyway?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. There is nothing inherently bad in gluten, but it does cause digestive problems, like bloating, gas, diarrhea and abdominal pain in some individuals. This is not an allergic reaction but sensitivity to the protein. In this case, it may be helpful to avoid gluten or even eliminate it from your diet altogether.

The important thing to note, however, is that gluten sensitivity does not cause long-term damage. If you eat gluten, you may have irritating symptoms, but it will not affect your overall health.

For about one percent of the population, intolerance to gluten can cause serious health consequences. These individuals suffer from celiac disease. When gluten reaches the small intestine, it can cause an abnormal immune reaction that damages the intestine and prevents celiac sufferers from absorbing the nutrients in food.
This lack of nourishment can eventually damage the brain, the peripheral nervous system, liver, bones and other organs. There is no cure for celiac disease, but people diagnosed with the condition can live healthy lives by completely removing gluten from their diets.

How to Be Gluten Free

It may sound simple at first—simply stop eating foods made with wheat, barley or rye. Unfortunately, going gluten-free requires a bit more work. “Gluten” is generally not labeled under the ingredients list in most foods made with grains. Aside from obvious foods like bread, pasta or crackers, gluten can hide in some unexpected places. Soups, gravies and sauces, salad dressings, candy, beer, imitation crab meat, pickles, chutneys, and processed lunch meat are likely to contain gluten.

Since celiac disease is being diagnosed more commonly than it was even a decade ago, there are a growing number of gluten-free products on store shelves. Not only must these foods not contain gluten, but they must be processed in facilities that are free of wheat or other gluten-containing foods in order to avoid contamination.
Celiac sufferers must be careful about any product that may touch their lips, whether it is a food or not. Lipsticks and lip balms, postage stamps, and toothpaste may contain gluten.

Going gluten free may sound nearly impossible, but it is not difficult once you learn the ropes. One important principle to remember is that the more “processed” a food is, the more likely it is to contain gluten.

If you follow guidelines for healthy eating and choose foods in their whole, most natural form, you have taken a big step toward gluten-free living. Fruits, vegetables, rice, legumes and most dairy products are safe to eat. Wine and distilled liquor is gluten-free. The same goes for unprocessed animal proteins, like beef, poultry and seafood.

For baking, you may use a variety of gluten free flours, like quinoa, rice, soy, corn and nut flours. The Celiac Disease Foundation provides resources and lists of foods and ingredients to watch out for at http://www.celiac.org/lifestyle.php.

To create the healthiest gluten-free diet, I recommend working with a dietician.

Should You Go Gluten Free?

If you suspect celiac disease, do not put yourself on a gluten-diet; instead, see your doctor. It is more difficult to make a correct diagnosis if gluten is not creating certain indicators in your blood. Symptoms vary, but they include abdominal pain, intermittent diarrhea, weight loss, general weakness, oily and foul-smelling stools, muscle cramps and joint pain.

Celiac has traditionally been difficult to pin down, but more doctors today are knowledgeable about the disease. To make the diagnosis, your doctor will look for signs by doing a blood test. If those are present, a biopsy of the small intestine is needed for confirmation.

If you do not have celiac, it is still possible for you to have a difficult time digesting foods containing gluten. See if going gluten free improves your symptoms. Sometimes, simply eating a healthy diet of natural foods gives you more energy and vitality. With a little effort and knowledge, it is easy to enjoy a delicious, gluten-free diet full of foods you love to eat.

Stay well,
Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/gluten-intolerance-against-grain?page=2
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/painter/2008-08-17-gluten_N.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gluten-free-diet/DG00063
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Can A Good Night's Sleep Beat Depression?

Everyone has days where they feel down in the dumps. But when feelings of sadness, anger or frustration become so overwhelming they interfere with your daily activities you could fall into depression. While sleep disorders have long been associated with depression, recent research on this link has changed the way the medical community views the cause of depression. Today I’m going to share the latest research and tell you how to use this new information to fight depression – or even prevent it altogether.

The Surprising Link Between Insomnia and Depression

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. During our mid-life years the chances of experiencing an episode of depression nearly doubles. Even mild cases can interfere with one’s ability to function normally at work, maintain a home and interact socially.

Over 90% of depression patients suffer from either insomnia (inability to sleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleep). For a long time, many experts believed insomnia was caused by depression. But new drugs designed to treat depression proved depression could be improved without relieving the patient’s insomnia.

New studies have dramatically changed the way researchers understand the link between insomnia and depression. These studies conclude insomnia is frequently the cause of depression instead of the other way around. For example, elderly patients with insomnia but no history of depression were found to be 6 times more likely to be diagnosed with an initial episode of depression than patients without insomnia. Those at highest risk for first-time depression suffer from severe “middle insomnia,” where you wake up frequently through the night then eventually go back to sleep each time.

By correcting sleep disorders, patients recover significantly faster from depression. One study found depressed patients able to sleep well were 11 times more likely to have recovered within 6 months than those with insomnia. Improved sleep also reduces the likelihood of remission. Two-thirds of patients with persistent insomnia relapse into depression within a year of discontinuing antidepressants while only 10% of those with good sleep do.

Clearly sleeping well is critical for dealing with depression. While most studies focus on patients suffering from major depression, those suffering from milder forms will likely benefit from a similar focus on improving sleeping habits.

Quick Tips for Getting a Better Night’s Rest

If you or someone you love is one of the nearly 18 million Americans battling depression each year I have some good news for you. You probably don’t have to resort to addictive sleeping pills to get the rest you need. Instead I’ll share with you some of my best tips on beating insomina so you can safely and easily get the 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep you need for optimum health.

Sleeping Environment

Start by sleeping on the right mattress. Choose a fully supportive mattress with just enough softness to allow you to wake up refreshed, not sore. Pillow placement should keep your head and neck in a straight line. Always keep your room as dark as possible while sleeping. If you absolutely must fall asleep with a radio or television on, use its sleep timer. Dress for bed in comfortable, loose fitting clothes. Your goal is to be comfortably warm, not too hot or too cold.

Sleeping Schedule

Get into a routine. Get up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Avoid naps during the day. If needed, keep naps to 15-20 minutes long. Avoid drinking for an hour before bedtime to avoid waking from a full bladder. Exercise or other physical activity during the day, at least an hour before bedtime, helps you achieve a deeper, more restful sleep. Limit yourself to the equivalent of 3 cups of coffee a day, avoiding caffeinated drinks including hot cocoa and soda near bedtime.

Sleeping Supplements

Try late night snacks like milk, turkey, ice cream, yogurt, or peanuts an hour before bed. These all have high levels of tryptophan which help your body produce the serotonin needed to relax and prepare your body for sleep. Some natural herbal supplements have a long track record as non-habit forming sleep aids. Passionflowers, Valerian root and American Skullcap leaves are a few which have been used for centuries to safely and effectively treat anxiety and insomnia.

Wrapping Up Depression

If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide or is in crisis, please seek help immediately by calling 911, visiting a nearby emergency department, or calling the 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or TTY 1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889).

Remember, depression is a treatable illness. While every case of depression may not be overcome with sleep alone, getting proper rest will certainly help. Exercise and maintaining a proper diet also play an important role. Whether you suffer from depression or not, you will always enjoy better health by sleeping well, exercising regularly, and eating the right foods.
Stay well,

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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Your Skin Is The First Line Of Defense

Your skin is likely to be something you take for granted and you assume it’s less important than other parts of your body. The truth is that your skin serves as the first line of defense to protect you from harm.

Skin is the largest organ of your body and provides information about your surroundings by sensing heat, cold, sharp objects, and danger. It regulates your body temperature through small surface blood vessels, sweat glands and hair follicles. With all that it does to guard you from the elements it is still the most vulnerable organ.

Patients often come to me for consultation complaining about various skin problems. Many times the reason for their discomfort is due to their own neglect and abuse over a long period of time. That’s why taking care of your skin from an early age is critical to keeping it looking healthy. When you think about what your skin is exposed to on a daily basis, its no wonder special care is advisable.

You are exposed to sun, wind, dirt, sharp objects, water and chemicals. Every encounter causes skin cells to be lost and it takes about one month for a skin cell to work its way from the base of the epidermis to the surface. The trick is to keep your skin nourished from within. This ensures the replacement skin cells are healthy and protected from without so there is less environmental damage to repair.

The Best Defense is a Good Offense

Keeping your skin young and supple is not as hard as it might seem. The best defense is a good offense so why not follow these five simple recommendations to guard your skin from the elements. Your skin will respond to your tender loving care by feeling softer and looking more radiant.
• Protect it from the sun with sunscreens, cover-ups, or midday sun avoidance.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking decreases blood flow, which depletes your skin of oxygen and nutrients, such as vitamin A.
• Wash your skin carefully. Don’t use abrasive soaps or hot water, which can strip the protective oils from your skin.
• Moisturize your skin to keep it supple and less prone to chafing and breaks.
• Shave gently. Use a good lubricant so the razor glides gently over your skin with no danger of nicks and abrasion.

Red Lines Are A Red Flag!

One of the most common problems I encounter in my practice is a skin condition known as Cellulitis. Although this skin condition can be serious, it is fortunately treatable. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection caused by the streptococcus bacteria entering your skin tissue through a small cut or sore.

Red lines may appear on your skin, running from the infected area along lymph vessels to your lymph glands. Left untreated the bacteria can get into your bloodstream and cause blood poisoning. Be particularly aware of a potential infection if you have a swollen, red area of skin that feels hot and tender. When this symptom is accompanied by a high fever it is time to see your doctor immediately.

There are several contributing factors to be aware of when dealing with infections of the skin. Depending on your medical background you might want to alert your doctor to any one of these conditions that could exacerbate your problem and impede a speedy recovery.
• Age – As you age, your circulatory system has a harder time delivering infection-fighting white blood cells to any open wounds or sores.
• Weakened immune system can leave you susceptible to cellulitis
• Diabetes – chronic skin ulceration can lead to bacterial infections.
• Chickenpox and shingles -the broken blisters on your skin are potential entry points for bacteria.
• Lymphedema – chronic swelling of your arms or legs, can lead to cracks on your skin.
• Chronic fungal infection of your feet or toes can cause skin cracks and possible bacterial infection.
• Intravenous drug use – needle entry points are excellent portals for bacteria infection.

Be pro-active when it comes to caring for your skin by giving it the care and attention it deserves. The look and feel of your skin is a testament to how well you take care of yourself. Proper nutrition, exercise, and vitamin supplements go hand in hand with skin care maintenance. Take care of your largest and most vulnerable organ and it will take care of you.

In Good Health,
Jay Brachfeld, M.D.
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Sex For Women Over 60!

One of my patients came to me last week complaining about his wife. He said she just wasn’t interested in sex anymore. He added, “After she turned 60, her desire for sex disappeared. Is there such a thing as a female Viagra?”

This is a question I get frequently from men who are having sexual difficulties with their spouse. It appears that sex is one subject most women hate to discuss with their doctors. Women over 60 may come to me for treatment of a physical nature but when it comes to sex, it usually boils down to a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. Sexual problems fall into a “quality of life” category verses one that is life threatening so it is a subject that is rarely talked about.

It is natural to assume that women over 60 no longer have a desire for sex because their production of estrogen has been dramatically reduced during menopause. At the same time, their ovaries decrease the production of testosterone, the hormone connected to sexual drive or libido. Although some women experience a drop in sexual desire after menopause it does not mean that their sexual relationships have to be less fulfilling.

Although sexual problems are not considered an illness you shouldn’t hesitate to get treatment if you are having symptoms. Even if there is no equivalent to Viagra for women, there are a number of natural remedies to help boost the female libido.

Increase Your Sex Drive Naturally

For many women over 60, vaginal dryness is a major problem that can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse. You may shy away from sex rather than find out what you can do to enjoy your body and your sexual desires. Don’t be embarrassed to ask your doctor about some of the treatments that are available including lifestyle adjustments, hormone therapy, and natural remedies.

There are many alternative treatments being researched to counteract the effects of menopause and increase sexual desire. Herbs with estrogen like properties that work to restore hormonal balance in women may be helpful in improving sexual ability and satisfaction.
• Natural Estrogen – known as phytoestrogens that can be found in certain foods. There are two types of phytoestrogens; isoflavones found in soybeans, chickpeas, and other legumes and lignans found in flaxseed, whole grains and some fruits and vegetables.
• Black cohosh – has long been used for treating menopausal symptoms in particular for the relief of hot flashes.
• Dong Quai – believed to increase libido and help prevent vaginal dryness
• Wild Yam – touted as a natural source of progesterone to improve vaginal dryness
• Shunthi – helps with sexual arousal by pumping blood to the genital areas of a female system
• Avena Sativa – helps to lower anxiety and improve sensitivity of female sex organs
• Chasteberry – boosts the body’s progesterone production and normalizes estrogen/progesterone ratio
• Other foods and spices – coffee, cola, and chocolate have reputations as libido-enhancers. Anise, fennel, sage and parsley are reputed to boost sex drive.

Overcoming a diminished sex drive is no different than dealing with most health problems. Following a healthy lifestyle by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, exercising moderately, and cutting out saturated fats, will contribute to your overall feeling of well being. You may also find an increase in your libido as you gain the confidence to fully enjoy your own sexuality.

Low Libido Not True in All Women

Not all women over the age of 60 have unfulfilled sexual relationships. Since they no longer have to be concerned about having a monthly period or an unwanted pregnancy very late in life they can be more spontaneous. With the addition of herbal remedies and hormone therapy, women are learning to enjoy new found sexual freedom after menopause. Here are a few statistics that may surprise you.
• A study of 2,000 U.S. women ages 45-80 found 60 percent had been sexually active in the previous three months, researchers said.
• The study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, also found 43 percent of the women reported at least moderate sexual desire, challenging conventional wisdom that women lose interest in sex due to their own physical problems.
• Researchers at the University of California-San Francisco said half of all sexually active participants described their overall sexual satisfaction as moderate to high. More than one-quarter of women age 65 years or older remained moderately or highly interested in sex, and more than one-third of women in this age group had been sexually active in the past three months.
• Among sexually inactive women in the entire group, 39 percent reported the most common reason was a lack of interest in sex, followed by 36 percent reporting lack of a partner, 23 percent citing physical problems of their partner and 11 percent saying there was a partner's lack of interest.

Just because you are over 60 doesn’t mean you have to live with low sex drive. If you are suffering from vaginal dryness, hot flashes, or low libido, there are remedies out there that can help bring back enjoyment to your sex life. Join the ranks of the thousands of women over 60 who experience fulfilling sexual relationships. Remember to consult your doctor before taking herbal treatments as they may interfere or interact with other medications you may be taking.

Stay well,
Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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Stomach Disorders

There is nothing worse than suffering from all sorts of unpleasant symptoms related to stomach disorders. Just going out to eat with friends can become a nightmare when you have to make a mad dash to the bathroom because of abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you are one of the thousands of people who experience uncomfortable and embarrassing side affects after eating don’t wait to see your doctor. You may be suffering from Crohn’s Disease or a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammation of the intestinal wall, a condition that has become increasingly common in Western countries in the past few decades. Most cases start between the ages of 15 to 35 years and affect men, women and children. Patients with Crohn’s Disease struggle with severe stomach cramps and feel as if they have completely emptied their insides of everything they have eaten within the past 24 hours. And that’s just one of the unpleasant symptoms.

Crohn’s Disease is considered to be the most common of similar colon related diseases known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Unfortunately, many people explain their frequent spells of diarrhea as just part of what they ate for lunch or dinner rather than seeking a professional’s advice.

I have to tell you that living with Crohn’s or IBD can be both physically and emotionally debilitating. What many people don’t realize is their discomfort may not be due to something they are doing or eating but rather what is happening within their own immune system.

Normally white blood cells are there to help fight infection but in the case of Crohn’s your immune system becomes dysfunctional and can’t tell the difference between good substances and foreign invaders. The result is swelling and pain somewhere along the digestive tract that leads to chronic inflammation. This overactive immune response is called an autoimmune disorder.

How Do You Know You Have IBD?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above there is only one way to know for sure if you have IBD or Crohn’s Disease. There are a number of tests that will determine your condition and the severity of your problem.

One of the most prevalent symptoms of Crohn’s Disease is bleeding. Doctors will test for blood in the stools, check for signs of anemia which could be an indication of internal bleeding. Other tests include an upper GI, or gastrointestinal series, which is an x-ray process that reveals abnormalities in the intestine.

Doctors might also decide to do a colonoscopy which is a procedure that examines the inside of the large intestine by a device hooked to a TV or computer monitor. This allows the doctor to see internal bleeding during the examination or any inflammation that exists. Additional x-rays of both the upper and lower intestines are sometimes needed depending upon the results of the colonoscopy.

Living With Crohn’s Disease

There is no known cure for Crohn’s Disease therefore it is important for you to know how to manage your symptoms. Your doctor will decide which treatments are best for you depending on how severe and where the inflammation is located.

One area of particular concern is correcting vitamin and nutritional deficiencies. Eating a healthy amount of calories, vitamins, and protein is important to avoid malnutrition and weight loss. Others treatments include controlling bleeding, inflammation, and relieving the pain and diarrhea. Methods usually involve the use of drugs, nutritional supplements, surgery or a combination of all three.

There are a variety of drug treatments for Crohn’s disease but may produce side effects. The most common are drugs containing mesalamine or those containing corticosteroids. Antibiotics may also be prescribed for infection when it occurs.

Herbal Treatments and Diet May Relieve Symptoms

There are many herbal recommendations for treating inflammation of the bowel and to relieve the symptoms of cramps and diarrhea. Always consult your doctor when considering any herbal remedy or supplement to ensure that you are choosing ingredients that help to improve your condition.
• An herbal anti-inflammatory option is White Willow which does not have common side effects that the other drugs produce.
• Another treatment involves taking 1 dessertspoon of Slippery Elm Powder mixed with yoghurt, mashed banana or cold chamomile tea. Slippery Elm provides a protective lining to the mucosal lining of the gastro intestinal system and in 12 weeks will help heal an irritated lining.

It is also important to avoid foods that spark the s
ymptoms of IBD. Although fatty foods are to be kept to a minimum, fish oil and flax oil are highly recommended. Your diet must be healthy and non-irritating consisting of natural products whenever possible. Because Crohn’s Disease and IBD can cause certain vitamin and protein deficiencies, an increase in supplements is recommended. This includes vitamins A, folic acid, B12, C, D, E and K as well as Calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.

Certain herbs may also provide relief from stomach disorders.
• German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) - German Chamomile has antispasmodic and analgesic properties. This plant has long been used in natural medicine against insomnia, painful digestive spasms, and in the treatment of diarrhea, stomach ulcers.
• Probiotics - Probiotics are non-pathogenic living microorganisms involved in the proper functioning of the digestive system. Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the Probiotics; it is beneficial for the health of the intestinal flora. Without these small organisms, intestinal flora can be infected by many disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
• Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides (AMP) – this is the most effective supplement that has an anti-inflammatory property, it regulates normal functioning of your intestine to prevent both diarrhea and constipation; it repairs the protective mucosa lining throughout the digestive system; it ensures healthy intestinal flora, and much more.

Although there is no known cure for Crohn’s the good news is treatments have come a long way. It is possible to stay comfortable and pain free most of the time so eating out does not have to be a nightmare. The most important part is making sure your problem is diagnosed correctly because the symptoms may be similar to other bowel disorders.

Stay well,
Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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Inflammation

If I told you that inflammation is good for your health chances are you would think I had lost my mind, especially if you happen to be one of the millions who suffer with the pain of arthritis. Although inflammation is linked to a host of diseases related to aging, it can be your best friend and an essential part of your well-being. Let me explain what I mean.

Inflammation is your first indicator that something in your body is going wrong. It can signal the presence of bacteria, toxins and viral infection and help you repair and heal the cells of your body. You would surely die without a healthy, powerful inflammatory process. When inflammation occurs, the body’s white blood cells and chemicals are released to protect us from infection and foreign substances.

There are times, however when inflammation becomes more of an enemy than a friend. This happens in some diseases when the body’s immune system triggers an inflammatory response when there is no need to do so. In other words, there are no foreign substances to fight so the inflammatory chemicals actually cause damage to the body’s own tissue. When this occurs it is known as an autoimmune disease.

How a Good Defense Turns Bad
When inflammation becomes chronic, uncontrolled or systemic it goes from being your defender to a ruthless destroyer. As tissue is continuously hit with infection, stress, and irritation it is left with chronic inflammation.

In a perfect scenario the inflammation should subside when the pathogens are removed. For instance, when a virus dies, or an injury heals, the blood vessels and lymphatic system carry the excess fluid and damaged cells away from the inflamed site. It is only when the body is out of balance that the system overreacts, or turns against you that inflammation continues causing tissue destruction.

Some of the obvious characteristics of inflammation are redness, swollen joints that are warm to the touch, joint pain, stiffness, and loss of joint function. There may be only a few of these symptoms that are present along with the possibility of fever, chills, and fatigue.

Although inflammation is generally associated with arthritis or joint pain, uncontrolled inflammation can affect internal organs as well. Since organs do not contain pain sensitive nerves, the symptoms can be very different depending on which organs are affected.

For example:
• Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis) may cause shortness of breath or leg swelling.
• Inflammation of the small tubes that transport air to the lungs may cause an asthma attack.
• Inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis) may cause high blood pressure or kidney failure.
• Inflammation of the large intestine (colitis) may cause cramps and diarrhea.
Don’t Just Treat Inflammation – Prevent It!
The best way to maintain healthy joints, relieve stiffness, reduce pain and fatigue, and improve muscle and bone strength is through exercise. Specific programs can be individualized to meet your needs and include low-impact aerobic activity, range of motion for flexibility, and strength training for muscle tone.

When dealing with severe or serious inflammatory situations circulation is critical for healing to take place. Since the body is trying to fix itself you can help it along by improving circulation to the affected area by using hot-cold hydrotherapy. You may also apply a cream derived from hot chili peppers to the skin over your painful joints. Improvement may be felt after applying the cream for 3-7 days.

There are many natural ways to enrich your diet with nutrients that are easily accessible:
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially antioxidants like vitamin E. These are found in fruits and vegetables.
• Get selenium from Brewer's yeast, wheat germ, garlic, whole grains, sunflower seeds, and Brazil nuts.
• Get omega-3 fatty acids from cold water fish (like salmon, mackerel, and herring), flaxseed, rapeseed (canola) oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts.
• Taking supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin are important because they form the building blocks of cartilage, the substance that lines joints.
Let’s not forget that rest is just as important as exercise to help you recover from flare-ups. Avoid holding one position too long or placing stress on your affected joints.

You can see how inflammation can be good for you and a key to staying healthy. Taking control of inflammation and balancing your body’s inflammatory response will help reduce the threat of it turning against you. Learn to read your body’s signs of inflammation and see your doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment. Get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, improve circulation, and eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

Take control of inflammation before it controls you!
Stay well,
Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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What You Should Know About Diabetes
Dear RAUL,
Whenever I inform my patients that they may be suffering from juvenile diabetes, better known as Type 1, the reaction is often the same. “How can I have juvenile diabetes when I am not an adolescent?” This is a very good question and one worth explaining.

Although juvenile diabetes tends to occur in young, lean individuals, usually before the age of 30, older people may also show signs of this chronic condition. What’s worse is that approximately 12 million people in the United States have diabetes and don’t even know it! The reason for this astounding statistic is that the American Diabetes Association does not recommend screening for the general population at this time unless you have a parent or sibling with the disease.

With an estimated 17 million people (about 8 % of the population) in the United States affected with diabetes it is important for everyone to have a better understanding of this insidious disease.

There are many factors that play into the cause of type 1 diabetes including genetics and exposure to certain viruses. Diabetes is considered to be a chronic condition meaning that it lasts a lifetime. Despite ongoing research no known cure has been found to date, but type 1 diabetes is manageable and treatable. People suffering with diabetes are now living longer, healthier lives with the addition of herbs and nutritional supplements available to complement conventional medicine.

All About Blood Sugar

Glucose is a simple sugar found in food and is a necessary nutrient that provides energy for the cells to function properly. Glucose in digested food cannot enter the cells without the help of insulin to help it along. Without it, the cells become starved of glucose energy and the unused sugar is wasted in excreted urine. That’s why a urine test is sometimes used as a means to measure sugar levels in the body and to check for potential signs of diabetes.

A person with type 1 diabetes doesn’t produce enough of the hormone insulin or is unable to use it effectively, which causes high blood sugar (glucose) levels. Over time, this imbalance can lead to heart disease, nerve damage, kidney disease, vision loss, and other complications. The less controlled your blood sugar, the higher the risk of disabling complications over a long period of time.

As a type 1 diabetic, the goal is to keep your blood sugar level as close to normal as possible to delay or prevent complications. This is done by monitoring blood glucose levels and is the only way to make sure that your sugar level remains within the target range.

You should also include a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are high in nutrition and low in fat and calories. Fewer sweets and animal products provide more nutrients and less sugar.

Move to Keep Blood Sugars Low

If you are a type 1 diabetic, the secret to lowering blood sugar is more than just a healthy diet. Exercise is right up there with watching what you eat. The advantage of physical activity is that it moves sugar from your blood into your cells so the more you move the lower your blood sugar level.

Walking, biking, and swimming are examples of activities that you might enjoy and can easily be included in your daily schedule. Shoot for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise as many days of the week as possible. Add some weight bearing exercises along with stretching to round out your program. Remember not to do too much too soon especially if you have not exercised for awhile. Consult your doctor for advice on the level of physical activity that is best for you.

Type 1 diabetics must also be cautious of their blood sugar dropping too low especially when taking insulin. When blood sugar drops the condition is known as hypoglycemia and is common among diabetics as well as people who are not.

Nature Can Help You Live with Type 1 Diabetes

The majority of people with type 1 diabetes are insulin dependent. But did you know there are natural remedies that have been around for years proven to be effective in lowering blood glucose levels? Here are a few of nature’s miracle workers:
• Gymnema sylvestre – The name of this herb actually means “destroyer of sugar” and was used in ancient times as a treatment for diabetes. “A study published in Ethnopharmacology in 1990 showed a daily dose of 400 milligrams was effective in lowering blood glucose levels in diabetics over the long term.”
• Fenugreek - A popular herb used for high blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.
• Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) – This plant has a long history of use as a hypoglycemic agent and has been referred to as vegetable insulin. At least three properties of Bitter Melon have been reported to have sugar-regulating properties.

Many famous athletes and professional people suffer with type 1 diabetes. It is possible to live a normal life as long as you follow your treatment plan, get daily exercise, eat a healthy diet, and monitor your blood sugar. Ask your doctor about natural remedies that will help you keep your glucose levels in check and aid you in your quest for good health.

Stay well,

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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All Diabetes Are NOT The Same

In my previous “Healthy Answer” article I helped you better understand the problems and solutions of diabetes type 1. Unfortunately, many Americans suffer from another type of diabetes that is far more prevalent and this article will help you better comprehend the differences. Here’s a general description on the two types:

Diabetes falls into the category of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar levels. Under normal conditions, blood glucose levels are controlled by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, the organ responsible for sugar control. All types of diabetics have difficulty either producing too much or not enough. Here is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes in a nutshell.
• Type 1 diabetes is sometimes called juvenile diabetes and occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. Nobody knows exactly why this happens, but some experts believe a virus or an autoimmune response, in which the body attacks its own pancreatic cells, is responsible. People with this type of diabetes must take insulin for life.
• Type 2 was once known as adult-onset and those affected are noninsulin-dependent. In the case of type 2 diabetes, the pancreas secretes plenty of insulin, but the body’s cells don’t respond to it.

Age, Gender, and Obesity Linked to Type 2 Diabetes

Did you know that men, aged 35 to 54 are almost twice as likely to have diabetes as women? Recent studies indicate that although diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing the disease. What researchers don’t know is why certain people develop type 2 diabetes and others do not.
What medical reports do tell us are the factors that increase a person’s risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Let’s take a look at the relationship of type 2 diabetes and three very important characteristics that put you in danger of developing the disease.
• Weight – The more fatty tissue you have, the more resistant your cells become to insulin.
• Inactivity - Physical activity helps you control your weight, uses up glucose as energy and makes your cells more sensitive to insulin.
• Age - The risk of type 2 diabetes increases as you get older, especially after age 45. It may be because as people age they tend to become less active, lose muscle tone and gain unwanted weight.
Its no wonder these common risk factors have sparked concern among members of the medical profession.

More Staggering Statistics

You might agree that it seems more and more people you know are becoming a statistic; one more victim of diabetes 2. I’d like to share a few facts about this fast growing disease that might be of interest to you.
• Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is responsible for 90% - 95% of the 21 million people afflicted with the disease.
• People over 40 are at higher risk of the condition, as are people with a large waist or family history of the disease.
• Type 2 diabetes is the form linked to poor exercise and diet. Many of the two million people with type 2 are overweight or obese - and an estimated 500,000 more people have type 2 but do not know it.
• The number of obese people will increase in the coming decades, putting people at higher risk of heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer.
• Type 2 diabetes can be undetected for a decade or longer and many already have complications by the time it is diagnosed. These complications include heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and amputation.

The News Is Not All Bad

If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes it might seem frightening at first. But don’t let it get you down. Although type 2 diabetes is serious, it is also manageable. If you are willing to follow a healthy life style you can reduce your risk of developing the disease as well as learn to control it. Consider this:
• Losing weight can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in high-risk people by 58 percent.
• Exercising can cut the risk by 64 percent.

There are also natural remedies for type 2 diabetes that are being explored in addition to standard treatment. Make sure that you inform your doctor about any herbs, supplements, or natural treatments you are taking to safeguard against adverse reactions with other medications.

Diabetes Improves With Natural Minerals
• Chromium is a mineral that helps increase the efficiency of insulin, and picolinate is an amino acid that allows the body to use chromium much more readily.
Research shows that chromium picolinate helps lower blood sugar levels in most type 2 diabetics after taking a daily supplement containing the mineral. What’s even better is chromium picolinate has shown to reduce obesity which means it may enable some people with type 2 diabetes to lose enough weight to stop taking drugs entirely.
• Magnesium is a mineral that can be found naturally in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. It is needed to help regulate blood sugar levels as well as other bodily functions. Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting glucose levels.
• Zinc is important to type 2 diabetics because it helps in the production and storage of insulin. It can be found naturally in oysters, ginger root, lamb, pecans, split peas, egg yolk, rye, beef, liver, lima beans, almonds, walnuts, sardines, and chicken.
• Vanadium can be found in soil and many foods and has been found to improve insulin and reduce blood sugar. It actually imitates the action of insulin in the body.

It’s not hard to see why nutritional supplements can be an aid to a diabetic sufferer. However, all diabetics are not created equal. Cases differ in terms of the severity, prescribed medication, diet, and exercise. That’s why I stress the importance of working with a qualified health care professional to find the best treatment and supplement for you.

Stay well,

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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A Small Gland Doing A Big Job

One of my patients came to me feeling tired, run down, confused and out of focus. When I suggested it could be related to his thyroid, he was shocked. That’s because most people don’t think a small gland like the thyroid could have such a huge affect on your overall health. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Hypothyroidism has been labeled the “unsuspected illness” and is one of the most under diagnosed conditions in the United States.

The thyroid is one of the endocrine glands located in your neck, just above your collarbone that produces hormones to help set your metabolism. In other words it controls how your body gets nutrients from the foods you eat. It has a big job to keep your weight stabilized and your energy level at an even keel. Millions of people live with thyroid disease without realizing they have a problem.

Some people experience chronic fatigue, others find that they don't have the same mental clarity they once had. Other symptoms are dramatic changes in weight, sleep disturbances, even depression. You can see why it is difficult to determine the cause when the physical signs are so easily confused with a number of other illnesses.
As a result people continue to live with thyroid disease for years without getting proper treatment. What makes matters worse is the fact that since thyroid conditions are mistaken for other diseases they are often treated incorrectly. So the patient continues to suffer with thyroid problems with no relief.

If some of these symptoms sound familiar you may want to learn more about the functioning of this small but powerful gland.
Too Much or Not Enough
Too much - hyperthyroidism

The thyroid gland uses iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make hormones that help to regulate your metabolism. When your thyroid becomes overexcited it produces too much of the hormone and kicks your metabolism into overdrive. This is called hyperthyroidism. When this happens you tend to lose weight, have trouble sleeping, and feel irritable. It might also affect your heart as well by producing a faster or irregular beat. You may even find your body temperature higher than normal.

The cause of hyperthyroidism may be a result of inflammation which resolves itself once the thyroid heals. Or some chronic diseases such as Graves’ may cause hyperthyroidism which can be treated with anti-thyroid drugs to bring thyroid hormones back into balance.

Not enough – hypothyroidism

When the thyroid becomes exhausted and doesn't produce enough hormones to do the job your body slows down. This is called hypothyroidism. The result is weight gain, weakness, trouble with focusing and fatigue. The cause of hypothyroidism is considered to be due to an autoimmune disorder. It is unknown as to why the immune system goes astray but in this situation it attacks the thyroid gland and disrupts its function.

Unfortunately, there is no way to restore thyroid function once it is lost. But you can manage the disease by taking prescription medication or natural supplements. This process takes some trial and error to get you feeling back to normal. Too much hormone replacement can mimic hyperthyroidism. Too little won't correct your symptoms.
There are both natural and synthetic versions of prescription thyroid hormones. Work with your doctor to find which medication works best for you.

Your Temperature Can Be A Clue to Thyroid Disease

If you suspect that you have thyroid disease your first step is to track your temperature. You can do this by keeping a thermometer by your bed. Place the thermometer bulb in your armpit as directed. (Make sure there is no clothing between your skin and the thermometer). Wait ten minutes if you are using a mercury thermometer. For a digital thermometer, wait until it beeps.

Record the temperature in a notebook. Do this every day for three weeks. After three weeks, calculate your average waking temperature. If your average waking temperature falls below the normal range of 97.8 to 98.2, tell your doctor. You could have a low thyroid or hypothyroidism. If it falls above, it could be a case of hyperthyroidism.

Determining your average daily temperature is only a clue to detecting thyroid disease. The next step is to consult a health care practitioner to check your TSH level and the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. There are two basic blood tests that are usually given first. If your doctor suspects you have a thyroid condition more specialized testing may be needed.

Foods and Supplements Aid Thyroid Conditions

Once you have been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, it is important to get the proper nutrition for your problem. For hyperthyroidism foods that depress thyroid activity are recommended. These include broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, soy, beans, and mustard greens. The same foods should be avoided for hypothyroidism.

For both types of thyroid conditions keep the following in mind:
• Avoid refined foods, sugar, dairy products, wheat, caffeine, alcohol
• Add 1,000 – 1,500 mg of flaxseed oil (an essential fatty anti-inflammatory) three times per day
• Add calcium and magnesium to aid the metabolic process to function properly. Consult your doctor for the appropriate amount of each.

If you think you have a thyroid condition, see your doctor. Don’t be one of the many people who live with the “unsuspected illness.” With the right diagnosis and treatment you will be feeling better in no time.

Stay well,

Mark Rosenberg, M.D.
Institute For Healthy Aging
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Is Your Inner Voice Trying To Tell You Something?

Have you ever made a few life-changing decisions knowing that down deep inside it just wasn’t right for you? It has happened to all of us at some time or another. I must confess I am not exempt! There were times I wish someone had hit me upside the head to give me a reality check! How many red flags have to go up before we heed the warning signs?

I recall a time in my life when I made the decision to relocate to a different state to live with my boyfriend. Our relationship seemed like a match made in heaven as long as we lived apart in distant places. Something deep inside of me told me no, but I wanted it to work so I went there. Like many people I didn’t listen to that little inner voice that says, “Maybe this is not such a good idea”!

Well, as you expected, it turned out to be a disaster. I no sooner settled in when I felt my independence was compromised. I realized in hindsight that I should have followed my gut instincts.

Learning to follow through on your everyday hunches is not easy! Blame it on the realization that we are just human. But thankfully, there are ways to tune in your inner dialogue to help you make wiser choices and protect yourself from harmful outcomes.

Just recently I had a close friend call me for some good old girl-to-girl talk. The fact that I’m a life coach probably helped promote this phone call, but that’s what friends are for!

Jane (the name I use here is to protect the innocent) is known for making the wrong choice when it comes to her love life. Shortly after her divorce, Jane was anxious to put her life back together again and throw herself into the dating scene.

To make a long story short she ended up with a man not too much different from her ex-husband. At first it seemed like a Camelot romance but after a few short months the red flags were flying high.

Her mate’s controlling and manipulative personality was becoming very evident. That’s too mild, let’s just say he was a “control freak”. There were times Jane couldn’t even go to the grocery store without him. Talk about jealousy! Of course there were other instances that were reminiscent of her past that came flashing back.

Jane basically felt trapped and knew she had to get out. All she wanted to do was to be left alone to pursue her own life. Why didn’t she just listen to her intuition in the first place? The big WHY!

Let’s not single Jane out! We are all subject to the weakness of not reading the signs that help to frame our life decisions. Regardless if it’s a relationship or simply a work related choice we often don’t go with “our gut” How many times have you accepted a job opportunity that you know is just not right for you?

Or maybe you decide to go into business with a friend but it doesn’t feel quite right. In the back of your mind you know it’s not a good idea. The deal goes bust and you end up losing a friend. At the end of it all you say, “What was I thinking?”

Many people refuse to follow their instincts because they want the outcome to be different and think they can force it to happen. Just like Jane you believe if you work hard enough or want something badly enough you can control the result. So you sidestep your inner voice and do it anyway.

So, what is this phenomenon we call intuition? Why is it important to our well being? Intuition is a way of knowing or sensing the truth without explanations. It is the ability to get a sense, a vision or feeling about someone or something. It is that voice inside of you that communicates with you through feelings and emotions.

We are all born with intuition but many of us don’t develop a way to use it to our advantage. Children are fine examples of intuitive beings and seem to have a natural ability to sense when there is danger, or react to what would be an unpleasant situation.

As you grow older your reasonable mind takes over and you lose touch with the instinctive part of yourself. You ignore the small voice inside of you and replace it with intellect and rational judgment. Even when it slaps you in the face as it did to me and Jane, you still choose to disregard its calling.

The good news is intuition can be nurtured and strengthened. The first thing I do is to clear my busy schedule of all distractions. This step allows time for me to think about my dilemma. Here’s a great little trick I’ve used for years to help me steer clear of the bumps in the road.

I imagine a weighted scale, much like the balance you see in a legal sense. I call it my “intuition scale”. On one side I place all the pros I’ve written down and on the other all the cons I consider to be deal breakers. Then I look at my scale to see which way it’s tipping. Believe me, this helps simplify and clarify your decisions when making important life choices.

If you have difficulty emptying your mind, I suggest trying a few minutes of meditation along with some deep breathing exercises. Just three to five minutes of this relaxing process will train your mind to surrender its control and make better use of to your instincts.

Please try to pay attention to your inner voice when it speaks. It will connect you to a better understanding of your purpose in life. It is there to channel your choices toward the greater good and is looking out for your best interests. Listening to your intuition can give you the confidence you need to take action and change your life for the better.

Your Healthy Life Coach,
Dale Brown, B.S., M.A., C.E.C.