Late Summer and Chinese Medicine Theory

 

Good Morning!

Late Summer and Chinese Medicine Theory

Late Summer is considered the "dog day afternoons" when in late August and "Indian Summer" are hotter and damper days rich in humidity and a feeling of heaviness in the air. This often parallels the way our bodies feel during this period.

Dampness is associated with the element earth and is most active in late summer. Ailments of excessive dampness can be induced by sudden exposure to fog or mist, immersion in water or exposure to rain, and living in excessively damp locations or climates. The surface pores on the body are open. Because summer is humid, the pathogenic factors, which cause diseases in this season always mix with dampness. The symptoms include excessive fluids in the body with symptoms of abdominal bloating, abdominal pains, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, intestinal spasms, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of thirst, feeling of heaviness, heaviness in the chest or being sluggish and stiff, aching or sore joints - are characteristically heavy and sluggish in nature and tend to block the flow of energy throughout the body.

Damp Heat is a condition of dampness and heat combined with symptoms of thick yellow secretions and phlegm such as jaundice, hepatitis, urinary problems, or eczema.

"Inner-dampness" is caused by excess cold consumption of liquor, tea, cold melons, and sweet, greasy foods. These impede spleen functions.

The Spleen and Stomach

In Chinese Medicine, the spleen and stomach are associated with Late Summer. They belong to the element of Earth. The stomach's function is to rot and rippen food and break it down for transportation. The spleen's functions: transform and transport foods and body fluids to make ready for absorption. The spleen raises our (Qi) energy up. The spleen controls the blood and keeps it in the vessels. The spleen also nourishes the muscles.

Signs and symptoms of poor spleen function include dizziness, pale complexion, low energy, prolapse of organs such as the rectum (hemmorhoids) and uterus. Spontaneous bleeding, muscle weakness and muscle atrophy can all be due to problems with the spleen.
Signs and symptoms of poor stomach function are numerous. Stomach heat manifests as too much heat in the stomach and is represented by bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, burning sensation in the stomach, extreme thirst, frontal headaches and/or mouth ulcers.

The spleen transforms the ingested food and drink to extract the Qi. The function of transformation and transportation is crucial in the process of digestion and the formation of Qi and blood. If this function is impaired there may be a poor appetite, poor digestion, abdominal distention and loose stools. The spleen separates the usable part of fluids from the unusable. If this process is impaired there can be an accumulation of dampness, phlegm, and/or edema. The Spleens ability to transform and transport can be adversely affected by the excessive consumption of cold drinks and raw foods. The action of chewing prepares food for the Spleen to transform and transport. If Spleen-Qi is abnormal, there may be an impairment of the sense of taste or the presence of an abnormal taste , lack of appetite and the lips may be pale and dry. If the Spleen has heat a person may complain of a sweet taste in the mouth and have dry lips.

The stomach transforms food and drink by the process of fermentation. This prepares the ground for the Spleen to separate and extract the refined essence from food. After transformation in the Stomach the food is passed down to the Small Intestine for further separation and absorption.

The Stomach together with the spleen is responsible for transporting food essences to the whole body, especially the limbs. If Stomach Qi is strong a person will feel strong and full of energy. Stomach Qi also ensures that the Qi of the organs reaches the pulse. A pulse with good stomach Qi is said to be neither weak or strong with yin and yang harmonized and it has a regular, slow beat.
The stomach is responsible for the coating on the tongue. A thin white coating on the tongue indicates the Stomach is functioning properly. The absence of coating indicates that the stomach's function of digestion is impaired. A thick white coating reflects either cold or dampness and a thick yellow coating indicates heat.

Men's Health Month: Supplement Overview

 

Good Morning!

Men's Health Month: Supplement Overview

This is one of my favorite perscriptions I give my male patients. These three supplements are only natural. One is plant based, the other is a natural steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and the third is an omega fatty acid. They must be taken together, twice a day for 30 days. The results will be so great that you will want to continue this protocol, but I would only recommend doing this only 6 months apart (twice a year).

1. DIM (diindolylmethane) is a plant compound called an indole and has been shown to help regulate and promote a more efficient metabolism of estrogen, and an optimal ratio of estrogen metabolites. DIM balances estrogen levels, promoting health and well-being. This powerful phytonutrient is found in broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and brussels sprouts, unlike other phytonutrients like soy isoflavones, has no hormonal properties in itself.

2. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a natural steroid hormone, one of the hormones produced by the adrenal glands. After being secreted by the adrenal glands, it circulates in the bloodstream as DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS) and is converted as needed into other hormones. DHEA is chemically similar to testosterone and estrogen and is easily converted into those hormones. DHEA production peaks in early adulthood and declines in production with age in both men and women. Therefore, many diseases which correlate with age also correlate with low levels of DHEA production. Standard dosage is 100 mg twice a day.

3. Fish Oil: Take 2,000 mg of rich, omega 3 fish oil, in doses of 1,000 mg, twice a day.

To increase testosterone levels, consider taking DHEA 100 mg in divided dosage (50 mg, twice a day) with DIM-plus 60 capsule size (one capsule, twice a day for a total of 100 mg) for a total of two capsules per day along with a "good fat" such as flaxseed or fish oil 1,000 mg, twice a day (2,000 mg total per day).

Another favorite combination of supplements I recommend for long term use are my Male Performance formula. Take this all natural herbal combination, two pills, twice a day. Along with this, take 2,000 mg of L-Arginine (one of the best male amino acids) in divided doses (1,000 mg), twice a day. (Take up to 3 months at a time. Take a break for a month and then go back on the 3 month regime.)

Vitamin C research suggests it may prevent sperm from "clumping" together and that it increases sperm count. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione - research shows that these and other antioxidants may improve sperm quality. Dose: 1,000 mg twice a day.

Vitamin E supplementation with this antioxidant has been shown to increase sperm motility and to enhance the ability of the sperm to penetrate the egg in test-tube studies. Dose: 400 IU daily. Talk to your doctor prior to starting Vitamin E, particularly if you are currently taking aspirin or other blood thinners.

Selenium: Dose: 200 mcg daily. Improves sperm motility.
Coenzyme Q10: Take 10 mg daily. Increases sperm count and motility.
Zinc is an essential nutrient for proper sperm production. A deficiency may result in lowered testosterone levels.. The usual recommended dosage of zinc is about 15 to 30 mg daily, coupled with 1 mg of copper for balance. Too much zinc can be toxic. Do not exceed a dose of 15 to 30 mg daily This mineral is found in great amounts in the outer layer of sperm and plays an important role in the production of the hormone testosterone.

Vitamin B12: Take 1000 mcg daily. A B-12 deficiency reduces sperm motility and sperm count. Even if no deficiency exists, B-12 supplementation may help men with a sperm count of less than 20 million per milliliter or a motility rate of less than 50% Zinc and B Vitamins (B6, B12, and folic acid) are critical nutrients in the male reproductive system for proper hormone metabolism, sperm formation and motility.

L-Arginine (Kidney Yang tonic) especially enhance sperm count. Studies indicate that this amino acid may improve sperm motility. Take 4 gr daily. Needed to produce sperm. If the sperm count is below 10 million per ml, arginine probably will not provide any benefit.

L-Carnitine (Yin and Blood tonic) especially enhance sperm count. Researchers have found that L-carnitine is found in much greater amounts in sperm tissues than other cells. Preliminary studies suggest that L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine may be able to stimulate sperm motility in certain situations. The role of L-carnitine on sperm maturation and sperm quality however, is still unclear. Several clinical studies have evaluated the effect of L-carnitine on men with a low sperm count, a reduction/loss in sperm movement, or men with both conditions. These studies have evaluated only small numbers of men who took oral carnitine supplements for varying lengths of time. Some patients enrolled in these studies experienced increased sperm counts and/or increased sperm motility. Take 3-4 grams daily. Required for normal sperm function.

Flaxseed oil: Take 1 tbsp daily. Is a source of essential fatty acids.
Fish Oil: Take 2,000 mg of rich, omega 3 fish oil, in doses of 1,000 mg, twice a day.

Ginseng: increases production of testosterone and helps with sperm production. Avoid if you have high blood pressure or Yin deficiency (with heat signs). ___

Discovering Digestive Health: pH Balancing and Acidity

 

Good Morning!

Discovering Digestive Health: pH Balancing and Acidity

Balancing pH Levels

During the process of digestion, hydrochloric acid (HCL) is secreted by the gastric glands in the stomach, which is an important part of digesting food. Excessive secretion of HCL by the stomach, results in acid reflux or acidity. Indigestion, flatulence, heartburn, and nausea are the symptoms of acidity. Ulcers might be formed due to excess secretion of HCL.

When the body is too acidic resulting from an intake of acid forming foods, mucus forming, high fat foods, and toxic food residues, disease and infections are encouraged. This is especially true in many digestive disorders but also shows up in cases of arthritis and rheumatic situations. Most foods are alkaline by nature, but often the more processed the foods are the more acidic they become. It is important to balance each meal with a ratio of 75% alkaline to 25% acidity in order to maintain better health. Perfect body pH is 6.4, above is alkaline and below is acidic. It is important that your daily dietary intake of food naturally balances your body pH. Balancing the body's pH is achieved by avoiding foods that create acidic conditions in the body, which can help lessen pain and inflammation.

Foods that create acidity in the body include, meat, dairy, hydrogenated fats, wheat and sugar. Consumption of excessive meat or foods that contain spices oe frequent use of medicines for inflammation, are some of the known causes for acidity. Acidic problems generally occur after eating heavy meals or during night at bedtime (especially lying down after eating a meal), or applying pressure at the abdominal area while lifting heavy weight.

Eliminate: butter, all fried foods, margarine, red meat, shellfish, shortenings or tropical oils (such as coconut and palm oils).
Limit foods that have little or no fiber such as ice cream, cheese, meat, snacks like chips and pizza, and processed foods such as instant mashed potatoes or already-prepared frozen dinners. Too much white flour and refined sugar.

Decrease phosphorus foods such as soft drinks, which are high in phosphoric acid, organ meat (liver, kidney), processed meat, which are especially high in phosphorus, fried foods and vegetable oil, which have a high level of omega 6 and can make inflammation worse. Sugar results in poor absorption of nutrients as does antacids, which neutralize stomach acid and result in poor absorption of calcium (heartburn and indigestion are caused by poor eating habits and NOT ENOUGH stomach acid!)


Decreasing Acidity

Foods that help restore balance include vegetables and legumes or non-acidic fruits (when eaten on an empty stomach).
As a preventative or when acid reflux strikes, enjoy a class of Andrew's Cleansing Smoothie with Green Powder. This cooling combination of vegetable, fiber and herbs help relieve the "fire" and assist the stomach in neutralizing acid.

A powder of any of these herbs, including avipattikar, cardamom, clove, fennel, neem or turmeric taken after meals or in an tea, provides relief from acidity.

To prevent acidity, boil about 1 cup of water and add either anis seed, caraway seeds or fennel seed and a teaspoon of honey and drink this three times per day for six days to get relief from acid reflux.

Add ten grams of flaxseed husk to one glass of water and take after meals to prevent acidity.

Dry fruits like dates, mangoes, bananas musk melon mixed with milk also provide good relief from acidity.

A great Ayurvedic remedy is to mix a small quantity of ginger with avipattikar and a pinch of rock salt, taken with water, relieves acidity.


Therapies for healing
mind, body, spirit

When the body is too acidic resulting from an intake of acid forming foods, mucus forming, high fat foods, and toxic food residues, disease and infections are encouraged. This is especially true in many digestive disorders but also shows up in cases of arthritis and rheumatic situations. Most foods are alkaline by nature, but often the more processed the foods are the more acidic they become. It is important to balance each meal with a ratio of 75% alkaline to 25% acidity in order to maintain better health. Perfect body pH is 6.4, above is alkaline and below is acidic. It is important that your daily dietary intake of food naturally balances your body pH. Balancing the body's pH is achieved by avoiding foods that create acidic conditions in the body, which can help lessen pain and inflammation.

Foods that create acidity in the body include, meat, dairy, hydrogenated fats, wheat and sugar. Consumption of excessive meat or foods that contain spices oe frequent use of medicines for inflammation, are some of the known causes for acidity. Acidic problems generally occur after eating heavy meals or during night at bedtime (especially lying down after eating a meal), or applying pressure at the abdominal area while lifting heavy weight.

Eliminate: butter, all fried foods, margarine, red meat, shellfish, shortenings or tropical oils (such as coconut and palm oils).
Limit foods that have little or no fiber such as ice cream, cheese, meat, snacks like chips and pizza, and processed foods such as instant mashed potatoes or already-prepared frozen dinners. Too much white flour and refined sugar.

Decrease phosphorus foods such as soft drinks, which are high in phosphoric acid, organ meat (liver, kidney), processed meat, which are especially high in phosphorus, fried foods and vegetable oil, which have a high level of omega 6 and can make inflammation worse. Sugar results in poor absorption of nutrients as does antacids, which neutralize stomach acid and result in poor absorption of calcium (heartburn and indigestion are caused by poor eating habits and NOT ENOUGH stomach acid!)


Decreasing Acidity

Foods that help restore balance include vegetables and legumes or non-acidic fruits (when eaten on an empty stomach).
As a preventative or when acid reflux strikes, enjoy a class of Andrew's Cleansing Smoothie with Green Powder. This cooling combination of vegetable, fiber and herbs help relieve the "fire" and assist the stomach in neutralizing acid.

A powder of any of these herbs, including avipattikar, cardamom, clove, fennel, neem or turmeric taken after meals or in an tea, provides relief from acidity.

To prevent acidity, boil about 1 cup of water and add either anis seed, caraway seeds or fennel seed and a teaspoon of honey and drink this three times per day for six days to get relief from acid reflux.

Add ten grams of flaxseed husk to one glass of water and take after meals to prevent acidity.

Dry fruits like dates, mangoes, bananas musk melon mixed with milk also provide good relief from acidity.

A great Ayurvedic remedy is to mix a small quantity of ginger with avipattikar and a pinch of rock salt, taken with water, relieves acidity.

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