Copper Imbalance – An American Epidemic

By Rebecca Steiner, Holistic Health Coach and Peptide Therapy Specialist

 

About Copper Imbalance:

Copper imbalance might be the biggest epidemic in our country, that nobody’s heard about. Copper is an essential mineral that is, without exaggeration, needed to live. Copper is required for ATP energy production, cell function, immune function, collagen formation, iron utilization, oxygen transportation, and much more.

Clearly the body needs copper to function. But copper must be functioning properly too. It must remain at just the right levels. It must not get too low, or too high, or lose its ability to move freely (becoming bio-unavailable). When copper gets out of balance it can lead to all sorts symptoms and disease processes, and yet it is often missed or misdiagnosed. The main reason for this is because copper imbalance rarely shows up in bloodwork, since it is mainly stored in tissues. Blood levels can look normal, even when there is copper deficiency or toxicity.

Symptoms:

Copper can act like a heavy metal, accumulating in tissues and organs and impairing their function. Many times, symptoms of copper dysregulation are related to systems of the body where copper is being stored. Common areas of copper storage are: the brain, liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs. So copper dysregulation may show up as depression, or headaches if it is accumulating in the brain, or endometriosis or infertility, if accumulating in the uterus. Copper dysregulation symptoms may also impact immune system and gastrointestinal function, or show up as iron deficiency, or B12 anemia.

Copper toxicity, insufficiency, and bio-unavailability can also cause:

  • Acne

  • Adrenal Fatigue

  • Allergies

  • Anemia

  • Anorexia

  • Anxiety

  • Arthritis

  • Asthma

  • Attention Deficit Disorder

  • Autism

  • Autoimmune Disorders

  • Behavioral Problems in Children

  • Bipolar (Manic Depression)

  • Brittle Nails or White Spots on Nails

  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • Chronic Digestive Disorders: Acid Reflux, GERD, SIBO, Indigestion, Constipation, Diarrhea, Bloating, Nausea, Vomiting 

  • Chronic Infections, Bacterial, Viral or Fungal

  • Chronic Yeast Infections, Vaginitis, UTI’s or Chronic Candida Overgrowth

  • Depression, Apathy

  • Dry Skin or Hair

  • Dysmenorrhea

  • Early Aging

  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

  • Estrogen Dominance, or Symptoms of Estrogen Dominance

  • Feeling like you’re “Wired but Tired”

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Fluroquinolone Poisoning – both predisposing one to poisoning, and worsening of symptoms associated with the condition

  • Food, Environmental, and Chemical Sensitivities 

  • Gastritis

  • Getting sick all the time/Never Getting Sick

  • Hair loss

  • Hoshimotos

  • Hypertension

  • Hypotension

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Hyperthyroidism

  • Immune Dysregulation

  • Infertility

  • Insomnia

  • Irregular Periods

  • Learning Disabilities

  • Loose Skin

  • Lyme Disease – that persists despite treatment

  • Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

  • Memory Problems

  • Mental and Mood Disorders

  • Migraines, Headaches (primarily located at the front of the head and behind the eyes.)

  • Miscarriage

  • Mold Toxicity and Mold Sensitivity

  • Neuralgia (nerve pain)

  • Osteoporosis

  • Parasites

  • PCOS, Fibroids, Uterine Cysts, Endometriosis

  • POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome)

  • Poor Collagen Production

  • PMS (bad cramps, mood swings, water retention)

  • Racing thoughts that can lead to insomnia

  • Schizophrenia

  • Sciatica

  • Worse hangover from alcohol or Alcohol Sensitivity

Not only is copper imbalance commonly misdiagnosed, it is also often missed because it is hidden by chronic illnesses like Lyme, mold toxicity, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, candida, parasites, and EBV. Because copper plays such an important role in the immune system, if it is not functioning properly, we become more susceptible to chronic infections.

Causes:

But what causes copper imbalance? There can be many causes, but the two biggest are; modern agricultural practices and the increasing ubiquity of female birth control. The way that we grow food in this country depletes the soils over time. As the years go by fewer minerals and nutrients make it into our food. This includes grass, and grass-fed animals too. So, we get less copper, or less of other minerals and vitamins we need to keep copper in check. In addition, GMO’s, pesticides, and even “natural” pesticides like copper sulfate are detrimental to the delicate mineral balance of the body. Ultimately, we can end up with too little, or too much copper. When we get too much copper, it acts like estrogen in the body. Combine this with naturally occurring estrogen, and the growing number of young women prescribed hormonal (and copper) birth control, and you have a recipe for a copper toxicity epidemic.

Since women naturally have more estrogen, copper overload from birth control, or other sources, tips the scales, leading to hormonal imbalances like; estrogen dominance, acne, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, infertility, and miscarriage.

Copper dysfunction in women should be suspected when the onset or worsening of symptoms coincides with puberty, early adulthood, or if symptoms increase around menses. It should also be considered in women with symptoms of copper toxicity who have used any form of birth control, at any point in life, including progestin and the copper IUD, which have been shown to elevate copper levels. That being said, men and boys can experience copper toxicity or deficiency too. One reason being that it can be passed from mom to baby in the womb. In young boys it often presents as behavioral problems, poor impulse control, learning disabilities, mental disorders, or developmental disabilities.   

Other sources of copper toxicity or dysregulation include:

·       Breast Milk

·       B Vitamin Insufficiency

·       Chronic Gastrointestinal Disorders

·       Copper Cookware and Dishes

·       Copper Piping in the Home

·       Fluorinated and Chlorinated Drinking and Bathing Water

·       Eating Disorders

·       Fluoride Used in Dental Procedures

·       Genetic Mutations

·       Gestational (transmission from mom to fetus)

·       Medications

·       Infant Formula

·       Lack of Vitamin A from Animal Sources in the Diet

·       Other Mineral Imbalances

·       Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs (treated with copper)

·       Supplementing with copper, zinc, vitamin C, and citrate, or using zinc sulfate sunscreen, without knowing your mineral levels

·       Vegetarian or Vegan Diets

·       Water Contamination

Testing and Treatment:

If you suspect you are suffering from copper dysfunction, it is extremely important to work with a practitioner who has experience in diagnosis and treatment.

As stated above, copper dysregulation is very difficult to find through blood work, so alternative forms of testing are needed, and in some cases, clinical diagnosis is required.

Treatment will be based on a person’s individual mineral balances, and symptoms, and usually consists of supplementing methodically with specific vitamins and minerals. It can take anywhere from 3-12 months, and in some cases up to 3 years, to correct copper imbalance. With proper diagnosis and treatment, health can be restored.

If you are interested in learning more about copper dysfunction or mineral balancing, please contact me: rebecca@bewellnaturalmedicine.net or schedule an appointment: https://SteinerHealthCoaching.as.me/?appointmentType=38500332

 

 

What I Love About Peptides

By Rebecca Steiner, Certified Health Coach and Peptide Specialist

Peptide therapy is one of my favorite tools for anyone who wants to enhance their health, longevity, physical appearance, and overall well-being. What I really love about peptides is that they are natural and very safe (when used correctly and under your doctor’s supervision). Peptides are messenger molecules that our bodies make naturally. They do all sorts of important things, like telling your cells how to function properly, and which hormones to release.  In our clinic, peptide therapy has been a game changer for a lot of people who are seeking support for a wide range conditions, from chronic illnesses like Lyme disease to weight loss and body optimization, and the prevention of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. In my opinion, there is really no condition that peptides can’t benefit. 

Why Some People Don’t Love Peptides

I occasionally come across clients who have tried peptides without success, or they experienced bad side-effects. Upon further investigation, I learn that they purchased their peptides not through their doctor but from an online vendor. I can’t stress enough how important it is to work with a skilled practitioner who is able to source your peptides from a reputable pharmacy and can design a protocol for you based on your individual needs. No matter what some people may tell you, peptides are NOT a one size fits all product. Additionally, while peptide therapy is quite safe, purchasing peptides online is risky. This is because only doctors have access to compounding pharmacies that are strictly regulated by the FDA, and because peptide practitioners will be the first to know if there are issues with a product or a manufacturer. Peptides that are sold online at discounted prices are at best, a lesser quality and at worst, dangerous for your health. 

Why You’ll Love Peptides

  • Peptides have so many amazing health benefits including:

  • Anti-aging properties

  • Improvement in the look of skin, hair and nails

  • Increased life span

  • Weight loss

  • Lean muscle building

  • Performance enhancing

  • Improved sexual function

  • Increased bone density 

  • Prevention of degenerative diseases

  • Immune system support

  • Wound healing

  • Bone, tissue and muscle repair

  • Neuroprotection 

  • Gut repair 

  • Mood balancing 

  • Improved sleep

  • Antimicrobial effects

MY FAVORITE PEPTIDES

 There are lots of different peptides out there, but these are some of my favorites. Keep in mind that many of these peptides work better synergistically, so your practitioner may want to combine, or “stack” them. 

CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin for Weight Loss

As we age, our hormones change, we experience chronic illness and stress, or regularly diet, weight loss becomes more difficult. Our growth hormone production decreases, and our metabolism is no longer working properly. CJC and Ipamorelin are combined in this peptide to improve growth hormone production, and boost and restore the metabolism. It is a small injection that allows for easier weight loss (especially around the midsection) increased lean muscle mass, and overall body optimization. Other benefits include: anti-aging properties, strengthening of the immune system, better sleep, and improvement in the look of hair, skin and nails. The caveat with these peptides is that you must follow a specific diet to really get the full benefit. At our clinic we design a “Peptide Diet Program” so you get the most out of your peptides. 

Amlexanox – For Weight Loss, Seasonal Allergies, and Much More

In my opinion, Amlexanox is the most underrated peptide on the market. It is a very effective, unique, and multifaceted compound, that is taken orally, as a capsule and is reasonably priced. It is usually used for weight loss because it improves glucose control and insulin resistance and reduces HbA1C levels, as well as reducing appetite. I find that it works very well in people with inflammation-related weight gain, because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Amlexanox doesn’t work for everybody. We still don’t know why, but it likely has something to do with genetics. Even though it doesn’t work for everyone, when Amlexanox works, it works very well! I also find that it’s much more effective when stacked with CJC+Ipamorelin. The other amazing thing about Amlexanox is that it has mast cell stabilizing effects. Amlexanox stabilizes mast cells in the body, that when activated, release histamine, therefore, it reduces the levels histamine in the body. I’ve seen Amlexanox work wonders for people with histamine or inflammation-based conditions like; mold toxicity, CIRS, seasonal allergies, food allergies, Gut problems, histamine intolerance, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, and Lyme disease. There is also research showing that it could be useful in the treatment of tumors. 

Thymosin Alpha-1 – For the Immune System

Many people who work with peptides will tell you that if they had to pick only one peptide they could use forever, it would be Thymosin alpha-1. That is because of the incredible effects TA-1 has on the immune system. On one end, it can bolster the immunity of a healthy person, to prevent potential illnesses, and on the other, it can improve chronic conditions like Lyme disease, Autoimmune illness, and even cancer. I personally use TA-1 anytime I get the feeling I’m coming down with something, and I’m usually successful at preventing or limiting the duration of colds and flus. I’ve also had a lot of success stacking TA-1 with CJC+Ipamorelin in people with inflammation, infection, or mold related weight gain. 

Thymosin Beta-4 – For Injury 

TB-4 is a healing peptide that promotes repair and recovery after injury. It is commonly used to treat sports injuries and to promote healing after surgery. TB-4 improves blood flow and reduces inflammation, it also repairs muscles, tendons and ligaments. 

BPC-157 – For Gut Repair, Fitness & Injury

BPC, or Body Protective Compound, is the one peptide that everyone can benefit from, has zero side-effects or contraindications and can, and should, be taken every day of your life. BPC is often used orally for gut repair, and is very helpful in treating ulcers, SIBO, IBS, Leaky Gut Syndrome, C. Difficile, and Ulcerative Colitis. Body builders, or anyone who is looking to make gains in the gym, appreciate the injectable version of BPC for its body repairing benefits. BPC will promote quicker recovery after exercise, faster muscle regeneration, and promotes tissue repair after injury. BPC reduces inflammation and prevents injury from exercise. BPC can also be stacked with TB-4 to accelerate healing pre and post-surgery. It can also repair organs, and has been shown to improve liver function and most importantly, can help prevent hangovers.  

Selank 

Selank is a natural nootropic and anxiolytic nasal spray, that has been shown to be an effective replacement for pharmaceuticals like Xanax. Selank can improve; anxiety, depression, memory and mental clarity, and is helpful in the treatment of ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, gut problems, histamine intolerance, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. It also has immune boosting properties and can work synergistically with other peptides to improve weight loss.  The great thing about selank is that unlike pharmaceuticals such as Xanax and valium, it is non-addictive and often allows people to successfully wean off of their prescription medications. 

Epitalon – The Fountain of Youth

Epitalon is probably the most amazing peptide there is, because it is literally the fountain of youth placed inside of a tiny injection. Epitalon will make you live longer and have you looking better. Unfortunately, it is also quite expensive, and can be cost prohibitive for many people. Epitalon has been shown, through scientific research, to increase lifespan and prevent degenerative diseases, by increasing telomere length. Telomeres are the ends of a chromosome, and the protective parts of our DNA. They make sure our cells divide properly. The longer the telomere strands are, the better the cell health. Each time a cell divides, the telomere becomes shorter, so as we age, the length of our telomeres inevitably shorten. Epitalon will lengthen these telomeres, resulting in longer life span and the delay and prevention of degenerative diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and dementia. Epitalon will also help prevent skin aging, and it improves sleep. For best results, Epitalon should be administered as a small injection, twice per year, for three years. 

If you are interested in scheduling a peptide consultation, please contact our office!

Breast Implant Illness: A Modern Epidemic

By Rebecca Steiner, Naturopathic Medical Assistant and Health Coach

About Breast Implant Illness:

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a little-known, but debilitating condition that develops in some women who have undergone cosmetic breast augmentation. Although the public has generally been made aware of the dangers of silicone implants, BII appears to be no less prevalent in women with saline implants. This may be in part because although saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, the outer shell is still comprised of silicone and other harmful chemicals that can flake off into the body. Consider just some of the toxic chemicals that have been reported in implants: 

Acetone (used in nail polish remover), methyl ethyl ketone (a known neurotoxin), sodium fluoride, formaldehyde, lacquer thinner, epoxy hardener, printing ink, heavy metals.

Additionally, saline implants can harbor mold and other fungi that can leak through tiny holes that develop when the implant shell degrades over time, resulting in systemic, chronic fungal infections. 

Not all women develop Breast Implant Illness. It is estimated that around 10 million women have breast implants, and while there is currently no fully accurate statistics available, it is believed that somewhere around 2% of these women will develop BII. This is a small percentage to be sure, but when you consider how many women have implants you’re talking about 140,000-200,000 women. Additionally, this estimation is probably staggeringly low, since it is likely BII cases are grossly underreported.  Breast Implant Illness is not currently recognized by the mainstream medical community, or the FDA. Both groups have a vested financial interest in dismissing the health complaints of women who report becoming ill after high-priced cosmetic augmentation surgeries. Therefore, women may not have any idea that implants are the cause of their health problems, and might even be accused of making their symptoms up. 

Causes:

While medical knowledge about this condition is still limited, it is believed that BII develops in some women because their immune system attacks the implant, viewing it as a foreign object. A capsule of tissue and immune cells grows around the implant attempting to wall it off from the rest of the body. The immune system continues to attack the implants on an ongoing basis, leading to an auto-immune-like condition resulting in chronic inflammation and a wide array of debilitating symptoms and a cascade of secondary disease processes. 

In women who have breast implants in addition to complex, chronic illnesses like Lyme disease, and mold toxicity, breast implants may play a big role in inhibiting their inability to recover, despite proper treatment. Because the immune system is so focused on the implants, it is not dealing with other problems like tick-borne infections, viruses, or mycotoxins, allowing them to run rampant in the body. Additionally, the immune system can become weakened and compromised over time, so that it is not functioning properly and is less able to fight off infections. Medical studies have shown significantly suppressed natural killer cell activity in patients with silicone implants. Natural killer cells are an integral part of a functioning immune system and work to limit illness and infections. Often times removal of the implants marks the first time a patient with complex, chronic illness begins to make headway in her treatment, because her immune system is unburdened.   

Women who develop BII may go years with no symptoms and then suddenly develop them out of the blue. Others report becoming ill almost immediately after implant surgery. Symptoms can be severe and debilitating. Just some of the many symptoms that can be associated with BII are:

Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, hair loss, rashes, auto-immune disease, thyroid dysfunction, SIBO, leaky gut, neuropathy, arthritis, pain, Lymphoma, brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, weight gain or weight loss, low libido, insomnia, vertigo, persistent viral, fungal, bacterial and yeast infections, chemical sensitivity, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, feelings of dying, mast cell disorder (MCAS), migraines, food allergies and sensitivities. 

Diagnosis:

What do you do if you suspect you may have BII? Unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer. There are no laboratory tests that will tell you if you have BII. I do not recommend patients seek a diagnosis from a doctor. Few doctors are aware of, or have accurate knowledge of BII and patients are likely to receive misinformation. I do not recommend returning to the surgeon who performed your initial surgery. Many surgeons have a vested financial interest in turning a blind eye to BII. Even the best-intentioned surgeon is likely to simply believe what they’ve been taught by the medical establishment – that Breast Implant Illness doesn’t exist. 

Here is what I do recommend: follow your gut, listen to your intuition. Think back over your health history; what was your health like before implants? How has it changed since? How well does your immune system function? Do you have a condition like Lyme disease? Have you been treated by a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor with little improvement in your symptoms? I also recommend that any woman who is wondering if she has BII join a Facebook group where she can read the stories of thousands of other women and see if those stories resonate. The best Facebook groups dedicated to BII are: Dr. Jae Chun- Patient Explant and Support Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/298460460534109/and Breast Implant Illness and healing by Nicole https://www.facebook.com/groups/Healingbreastimplantillness/. 

Making the choice to remove your implants is a big decision that only you can make. 

Treatment:

Once you decide that you are going to treat BII the first and most important step is to undergo a full En Bloc Capsulectomy explant of your implants with a highly trained surgeon. There are very few surgeons who are qualified to correctly remove the implants of BII sufferers. You can find a list of qualified surgeons on Nicole’s Facebook page or her website https://healingbreastimplantillness.com/explant-surgeons/. It is imperative that you do not remove your implants with any surgeon who is not on this list and is not highly skilled in En Bloc removal technique, in which the implant and the surrounding tissue capsule are fully removed in one piece. Many women have undergone expensive explant surgeries only to remain ill due to tissues that were left behind during surgery.

Even if a doctor promises you that they can remove all of your capsule, at the time of surgery he or she may find they are not skilled enough to do so. For instance, in some cases tissue can be adhered to the ribs and most surgeons are not capable of removing it without risking complications. In this case the surgeon may choose to leave pieces of the capsule behind rather than risk harming the patient. It is probably not possible to recover from BII without a full En Bloc extraction of the entire implant and surrounding tissue. 

Once you have decided to go through with explant surgery you must understand that for most people symptoms do not resolve overnight. Experienced explant surgeons generally report that around 85% of their patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms, but at minimum recovery usually takes at least one year. It is essential to enlist a qualified holistic practitioner to help you get your body and immune system back on track. Your body has been under assault and it will take time and work to heal. Work with your Naturopath to address detoxifying from the implants and clearing up any other associated problems like heavy metal toxicity, mycotoxins, Lyme and Co-infections. 

Some additional treatments that can assist with recovery and which we offer in our clinic are:

1.     IV Therapy: Following up explant surgery with nutritive IV infusions can really help to support and speed up recovery, especially in cases of leaky gut or otherwise compromised G.I. health where your body is not getting enough nutrients from food and oral vitamins. Speak with your doctor about which IV therapies are appropriate for you. 

2.     Ozone Therapy: Ozone therapy applied to the chest, post-surgery can have an almost magical, healing effect, helping to promote wound closure and diminish scarring. Ozone gas is also anti-microbial which helps prevent infection and complications of the incision site. 

3.     Low Dose Immunotherapy: LDI therapy can be a good addition to BII treatment. You can read my article about what LDI is and how it works here: http://bewellnaturalmedicine.net/blog/2020/1/9/low-dose-immunotherapy-for-chronic-conditions  In order to utilize this therapy, you will need to request before your surgery that your explant surgeon provide you with a small tissue sample of your removed capsule after surgery. We can make a sterilized, autologous LDI solution from your capsule that can be administered with a small injection under your skin. In some patients it takes a while for the immune system to rebalance once the implants are gone. LDI therapy can help to speed up the process. In cases where a patient is not recovering despite explant surgery, LDI can be a useful tool for retraining the immune system, which may be stuck in overdrive. 

4.     Health Coaching: It is essential to clean up your diet and lifestyle in the year following explant surgery. It may be helpful to work with a health coach to determine which diet and exercise programs will work best for you. 

If you are interested in further information on Breast Implant Illness, treatment, or Health Coaching please reach out to our clinic.

 SOURCES: 

1.     https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/8/9/5269/htm

2.     https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7570622

3.     https://www.myplasticsurgery.com

4.     https://www.breastimplantillness.com

5.     https://www.facebook.com/groups/298460460534109

6.     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QowrmaDy4uA

7.     https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7855864

 

 

Winter Wellness

by Sangita Pedro, ND

Cold and flu season is upon us! Our respiratory systems are being bombarded by cooler air, viruses floating around and poor air quality from local fires.  Luckily natural medicine has so many tools to help fight viruses, improve detox, clean the lungs and improve our immune function.

Below you will find some of our favorite tips, herbs and supplements at Be Well to keep the whole family healthy this Fall and Winter season:

  • REST. There is no substitute for a good night’s sleep. Sleep helps our immune system recharge so go to sleep by 10pm (or earlier if you are tired) and sleep until at least 6am (more if you are tired). And always go to bed and get up at the same time to regulate sleep hormones and prevent illness.

  • Drink plenty of water. Filtered water with liquid minerals added to every glass will increase hydration and help flush out bacteria, viruses and toxins.

  • Exercise. Moving the body helps move the lymphatic system which is our drainage system for toxins. Don’t over exercise. If you are feeling tired or rundown, take a break from vigorous exercise and rest. A good rule of thumb is if you feel tired after a workout you worked too hard! Back off a bit and you will feel recharged and invigorated.

  • Eat warm, cooked food. A healthy digestive system equals a stronger immune system and one simple way to tone digestion is to eat warm, cooked foods at every meal. They are easier to digest which means you will get more nutrition, more easily, from every meal and they warm the body which helps gently stimulate the immune system. 

  • Eat less. It is common to feel a decrease in appetite when you are coming down with an acute viral illness so listen to your body and only eat when you are hungry. Your body is trying to divert energy to the immune system to fight the illness so give it some help and eat light. 

  • Cool mist humidifier. Indoor air quality is often very poor in the winter because we keep doors and windows closed all season. One simple way to combat this is to put a cool mist humidifier in any and all rooms, especially the bedrooms. You can also add cleansing essential oils like eucalyptus, pine, fir, tea tree, lavender or lemon, directly in the humidifier to directly kill viruses and bacteria in the air. 

  • Astragalus: take astragalus only BEFORE you get sick. It is a wonderful immune modulator and can help prevent many acute illnesses before they start. Adults can take 500mg daily as preventative.

If all your best efforts fail and you find yourself coming down with a cold or the flu, try the following herbs, supplements and other tips to get well faster:

  • Immune IV: come in Monday, Wednesday or Friday for an immune IV to give your system a big boost of nutrients to fight viruses faster. No time for an IV? Try our Immune Shot instead.

  • Warm bath before bed: take a warm bath with Epsom salt or a combination of sea salt and baking soda before bed. Soak for at least 15-30 minutes, rinse with cool water, dry off well, bundle up and go to bed.

  • Wet sock treatment: warm your feet in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Rinse a thin, cotton pair of socks under cool water and wring out well. Dry your feet well and put cool, wet socks on. Cover with a pair of heavy wool socks and go to bed. This helps take down fevers and draw congestion out of the head.

  • Avoid cold medicine and anti-inflammatory medication: cold medicines that dry up mucus, cough medicines that stop coughs and anti-inflammatory medications that take down fevers should be avoided as much as possible. These medications can be useful in a pinch to get through a day of work or help a sick child sleep, but if used consistently day and night they will increase the length of the illness and can drive an illness deeper, turning a simple cold into a sinus infection or bronchitis. 

  • Elderberry: syrup or capsules. It is a great anti-viral and it tastes good! Adults can take 1,000mg three times daily during an acute illness.

  • Vitamin C and Zinc: immune boosting and virus-killing these two in combo do a lot to decrease the length of an illness. 

  • Vitamin A: a strong antiviral, Vitamin A (not beta-carotene) can be taken in high dose for up to five days at the fist signs of an illness to significantly decrease the length of an acute illness. Liquid form is best with 1 drop equal to 10,000IU. Kids can take the number of drops equal to their age daily for five days (ex: 7-year-old would take 7 drops daily x five days). Anyone 15 years and older can take 150,000 IU daily for five days.

  • Some of our favorite immune support products for children and adults include: Silvercillin, ImmunoBerry Liquid, V-Clear, EHB and Ten Mushroom Formula.

  • We carry all of these products and more at Be Well. You can also find them at your natural health store.

Protecting Our Lungs from Wildfire Smoke

NUTRIENTS FOR LUNG PROTECTION

The wildfires in Northern California are a major concern for all of us. Now that we are in our third year of serious fires during the Fall season, we really need to be aware of the dangerous affects of smoke on our lungs and immune health.

During this time of poor air quality, it is important to be preventative about lung damage, especially for those with allergies, asthma and existing respiratory disease or immune system deficiencies. Wildfire smoke is a combination of particles and gases, both of which can cause irritation and damage to sensitive mucosa in the lungs.

Here a quick list of nutrients that can be helpful while the air is polluted by smoke. It is likely you have some or all of these in your home pharmacy or pantry...

DIET: Whenever the body is under stress it requires extra vitamins and minerals. This is an important time to choose high quality whole foods. Nutrient-dense foods such as brightly colored fruits and vegetables will provide a mixture of natural antioxidants. Foods containing flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features that may provide additional lung protection. These foods include: strawberries, green tea, black tea, brussels sprouts, beans, onions and apples.

Vitamin C: Smoke causes inflammation via oxidative damage so antioxidants will be very helpful during this time. One of our best antioxidants is Vitamin C. You can increase your dose up to bowel tolerance (too much will cause loose stools). Recommended: 3000 to 6000mg/day in divided doses.

Vitamin D3: Supporting the immune system with vitamin D is especially important when dealing with smoke inhalation, especially those who have been diagnosed with a deficiency. Recommended: 5,000 to 10,000 iu/day with meals

Glutathione: Liposomal or IV glutathione can detoxify acetaldehyde and other toxins found in smoke and has great potential benefit to preventing damage from smoke inhalation. Recommended: 1 teaspoon of liposomal form twice daily or by IV administration at prescribed dose.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): is a precursor to glutathione and can be used if glutathione is not available as a supplement. NAC is a powerful mucolytic, breaking down and eliminating accumulated mucus from the lungs. In addition to facilitating breathing, toxins and germs threatening the lungs are also removed. People with various lung disorders such as bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema may greatly benefit from NAC. Recommended: 600mg three times/day.

Selenium: As an antioxidant, selenium helps fight free radical damage and moderates cellular oxidative stress.Recommended: 200mcg twice/day

Herbs: Green tea, ginger, and turmeric can be highly effective in inhibiting the activation of carcinogens in environmental smoke. Use in cooking or as a tea.

Additional Reminders:

  • HEPA filters or even air conditioners with filters and recirculating air can help cut down on particulate matter in the air indoors. Do NOT use an air conditioner if it does not have air filters or it will only suck in smoke and make breathing conditions worse.

  • Stay hydrated.

  • Avoid unnecessarily exerting yourself. Heavy breathing means you’re going to inhale more smoke.

  • Be especially conscious of breathing conditions for children and pregnant women.


With our Best Wishes for All to Be and Stay Well...

Dr. Lisa Brent