A few weeks ago I noticed something with my hair just wasn't right.  It seemed to lack life, seem dry, and overall bleh...I became concerned because this can be a strong indication of thyroid trouble or iron deficiency anemia which I have experienced in the past.  Then one day, I looked at the new hair products I had been using and said A HA!  Overproteinization!  Too much protein buildup in my products had caused my hair to become dehyrated, frizzy and unruly.  I had never experienced this before. So of course I stopped using those products and started moisturizing like mad but this would wear off by mid day and my hair would become unruly again.  So what do do to restore my hair health?  My hair is long and I really didn't want to cut it all off.

 

I could wait and ask my hairdresser but I didn't have an appointment for 6 weeks.

Then, inexplicably while researching another topic I came across this information. There might be a simple solution to my dilemma ...

 

Blackstrap molasses is a by product of the sugar refining process. As part of the boiling process of sugar refining molasses is born. It has the lowest sugar content of any sugar cane product.  Unlike sugar products which actually leach nutrients from the body Molasses is a plethora of nutrients including iron, calcium, magnesium, B6, and selenium.  

 

Molasses has major benefits to treat anemia, build bones, and help with potassium needs. 

 

Believe it or not it also defrizzes hair! Even permed, bleached or colored hair. That is the good news.  The bad news is that applying it can be a bit of a challenge like handling a tar baby to apply.  I have found that getting it in your hands, mixing it with warm water and applying over the sink is the least messy way.  You also will need to cover it with a plastic cap and leave on for 15 minutes. I shampooed afterwards and you will need to rinse very well.

 

After that, voila!  Smooth hair that lasts.  I would guess that about 80 to 90 % of the damage has been resolved in two treatments and the shine and bounciness has returned.  I plan to continue to use this.  It also seems to work for coarse unruly hair like beards or eyebrows in men.

 

The only caveat I see is that if you suffer from dermatitis or seborrhea or even dandruff the sugar content in this may be enough to aggravate it for a few days. If you have very light natural blonde, bleached or gray hair this may discolor your hair as well.  Otherwise I think this is a great natural treatment once you get the application down.

 

We have wonderful health and beauty products for sale on our website!  FREE shipping so I hope you will check them ALL out . I hope you will see how easy it is to make purchases on this new website.

 

Next week, join me for a discussion on what Parkinson's, ALS and MS have in common.  Sign Up so you do miss this leading edge forum.

 

Best of Health

 

Dr. Taryn

 

 

 

 

 

 

🍃🍎It's good to help clients avoid drugs and surgeries🍎🍃

 

 

 

 

Did you know that pet's illnesses often mirror that of their owners?  Sometimes they provide a warning in advance of what is to come. I noticed long ago that friends would get pets that would have similar disorders and later on they would present with the same conditions almost as if the pet was a mirror to their internal organs.  Often, after losing pets, they adopt another pet with the exact same health disorders.

In my own case, I wish I had taken my Shiba Tre's anxiety levels more seriously. I was told that “ it was the breed”, but in truth I was much more high strung  back then.  People's anxiety translates easily to their pets.  Recent studies have demonstrated that pets pick up on people's moods, stress levels and even phobias.   In cats, chronic cystitis is frequently related to stress within a household.  It tends to resolve when the stress is alleviated or another home located more suitable to the pet's comfort.

Allergies, too can be consistent from pet to owner on a frequent basis.   If you and your pet have “allergies”, take a look at your home environment.   Secondhand smoke can be a real trigger for allergies and asthma in both humans and pets.  and Pets reacting to smoke can oftentimes be a real incentive for owners to quit.   Cleaning products as well as other household toxins can also be more problematic for pets, at least initially because they are more in the line of fire and also are more sensitive so they will experience adverse events sooner.

If your pet is heavy or is gaining weight better check yourself.   Have you gained some unwanted pounds too? It is no coincidence that obese pets are on the rise just as obesity in people is.  Check your pet's diet, treat intake, including people food and daily activity level.  Show your pets TLC with more activity, preferably outdoors and it will benefit both of you.   Just as in humans, diabetes, heart disease and autoimmune disorders are showing up more frequently in pets.  And, just as in people, the microbiomes in pets are radically altered from optimal when they present with skin conditions, inflammation, and gut problems.  

I am offering a low cost pet nutrition consult for a limited time, just $99. Give us a call at 847 577 4455 to schedule.   Thank you!  Also check out some of our new pet products in our natural pharmacy, FREE shipping. Next week, I am excited to tell you about an all natural way to defrizz hair using something you may already have.  Sign UP below!!!  You may also want to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In or Instagram.  Our YouTube channel will be implemented shortly.

 

 

 

 

🍃🍎Our new website will be up and running shortly! The delays are due to adding features that you will enjoy immensely! Until then, I am unable to post to our blog. Through July 3rd, Cell Science Labs is offering a BIG discount on their deluxe nutrient panel, antioxidant panel and redox. This will give you your complete nutrition status as it measures 35 plus nutrients plus antioxidants and oxidative stress. It is 200$ off all 3 for $359. It is only $179 if you also get a food allergy panel which starts at $250. HURRY: tests must be performed by July 3rd. Call now to make arrangements. If you missed our email in totality here it is: 

https://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/61ip-14jyj8--l61qh-exll2e8

 

 

We will be sending out an email tomorrow which is again, time sensitive. We also have some savings for you. Have a great Mother's Day weekend.  

Thanks!

Dr Taryn

 

 

"We have essentially confirmed what many smaller studies have suggested," says Jill Crandall, MD, professor of clinical medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, the Bronx, who led the new study. "There is a small but significant risk of developing Vitamin B12 deficiency when people take metformin."

The finding, she adds, ''has implications for the consequences of B12 deficiency." These can include cognitive impairment, nerve problems (neuropathy) and anemia (low red blood cell count). B12 is crucial for the proper formation of red blood cells, for neurological functioning and for making DNA.

The link between taking the popular diabetes drug and deficiencies in vitamin B12 has been discussed as long ago as 1969, according to Dr. Crandall. However, few studies have looked at long term use, as her new study has done, tracking people for up to 13 years.

The new study was published online Feb. 22 in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Overview of the Metformin Study

The researchers evaluated more than 2,000 men and women enrolled in the Diabetes Prevention Program and the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. In these studies, researchers enrolled overweight people who had prediabetes (blood sugar levels higher than normal but not high enough to be termed diabetes) to see if modest weight loss or treatment with metformin could prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, then followed them to see if the effects endured.

Half of the participants were given 850 milligrams of metformin twice daily and half got placebo pills. At the 5-year mark, more of those in the metformin group than the placebo group had low B12 levels, affecting 4.3% of the metformin group but just 2.3% of the placebo group. However, the gap narrowed at 13 years, with 7.4% of the metformin group and 5.4% of the placebo group having low B12 at that point. The narrowed gap seems counter-intuitive until Dr. Crandall explains what is happening.  "As time goes on, the groups are a little contaminated," Dr. Crandall says, because some in the placebo group, as time went on, developed diabetes and had to begin taking metformin.

Years of use was linked with an increased risk of B12 deficiency, Dr. Crandall found. Those taking metformin were more likely to have anemia, regardless of their B12 status. Those taking metformin with low B12 were more likely to have neuropathy.

The study findings suggest that routine testing of Vitamin B12 should be considered in patients on metformin treatment, Dr. Crandall says. Experts think that metformin affects the way Vitamin B12 is absorbed by the body. "People should be aware of this possibility," Dr. Crandall says of the metformin and low B12 link. Currently, she says, there are no official recommendations for B12 testing of those on metformin. 

Metformin & Vitamin B12: Second Opinion

"I think it lends more support to a practice that is already in place with endocrinologists," says Minisha Sood, MD, director of inpatient diabetes at the Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, of the study findings. She reviewed the research but didn't participate in it.

She screens for Vitamin B12 deficiency in her patients ''at least annually if on metformin."  According to Dr. Sood, many endocrinologists do screen for B12 deficiencies in those on metformin. However, she says, many patients with diabetes who are on metformin are cared for by general practice physicians or internists. These patients should ask their doctor's advice about getting screened for B12 deficiencies, Dr. Sood says. 

B12 Deficiency Symptoms & Treatment 

Symptoms of B12 deficiency may include numbness, tingling in the feet, and memory problems, Dr. Crandall says. Loss of appetite, weight loss and fatigue can occur. The deficiency typically develops slowly over time, so the regular screening could detect it early.

Treatment includes a weekly B12 injection and then switching to oral vitamins. 

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for B12 is 2.4 micrograms for those age 14 and older.  Foods high in B12 include cooked clams and beef liver, fortified breakfast cereals and fish such as salmon and trout. You can also take a sublingual B-12 Lozenge-FREE Shipping. And of course, best practice is to take care of your diabetes and eliminate your need for meds.CALL US to learn more at 847-577-4455.Next week, join me for a discussion about how acupuncture is gaining momemtum for all kinds of health concerns. SIGN up so you don't miss it.  Our new responsive website is nearing completion and I cannot wait for you to see it.

 

 

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 Image:blueridgeanimalhospital

 

The FDA has recently issued a warning after assessing reports that have associated certain diets with cardiovascular disease. 

Researchers have found that pet foods with peas, lentils, potatoes and other legume seeds have been linked with instances of canine dilated cardiomyopathy, CDC,  a disease of the heart muscle in dogs. The condition can enlarge the heart, often leading to heart failure.

Although the illness is typically found in larger breeds like Great Danes and Newfoundlands, the FDA said “highly unusual” reports of dogs not vulnerable to the disease have contracted it. 

Diets in cases reported to the FDA frequently list potatoes or multiple legumes such as peas, lentils, other “pulses” (seeds of legumes), and their protein, starch and fiber derivatives early in the ingredient list, indicating that they are main ingredients. Early reports from the veterinary cardiology community indicate that the dogs consistently ate these foods as their primary source of nutrition for time periods ranging from months to years. High levels of legumes or potatoes appear to be more common in diets labeled as “grain-free,” but it is not yet known how these ingredients are linked to cases of DCM. Changes in diet, especially for dogs with DCM, should be made in consultation with a licensed veterinarian.

In the reports the FDA has received, some of the dogs showed signs of heart disease, including decreased energy, cough, difficulty breathing and episodes of collapse. Medical records for four atypical DCM cases, three Golden Retrievers and one Labrador Retriever, show that these dogs had low whole blood levels of the amino acid taurine. Taurine deficiency is well-documented as potentially leading to DCM. The Labrador Retriever with low whole blood taurine levels is recovering with veterinary treatment, including taurine supplementation, and a diet change. Four other cases of DCM in atypical dog breeds, a Miniature Schnauzer, Shih Tzu and two Labrador Retrievers, had normal blood taurine levels. The FDA continues to work with board certified veterinary cardiologists and veterinary nutritionists to better understand the clinical presentation of these dogs. The agency has also been in contact with pet food manufacturers to discuss these reports and to further the investigation.

 

The FDA encourages pet owners and veterinary professionals to report cases of DCM in dogs suspected of having a link to diet by using the electronic Safety Reporting Portal or calling their state's FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators. Please see the link below about “How to Report a Pet Food Complaint" for additional instructions.  I am currently pursuing advanced education in veterinary nutrition and am a pet lover and animal advocate so this is of great interest to me and I am sure to many of you.  Please be exceedingly careful in changing your pet's diet, as pets, just like people are very sensitive to dietary deficiencies.  Feel free to set up a consultation for guidance about your pet's nutritional needs or discuss with your veterinarian.   Next week join me as I discuss a popular diabetes drug that causes vitamin B-12 deficiency.  Sign UP Here.  You can also follow us on our social media pages, links below.  Our 500+ item Natural Pharmacy features brands like: Douglas Labs, Pure Encapsulations, Thorne Research and more.  FREE shipping on every order!  Thanks!

 

 

 

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Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Dietitian

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOCAL TREATMENT (Vaginal Suppositories)- APPLIED TO THE CERVIX in cervical Dysplasia and Cervical Cancers:

Risk Factors for cervical dysplasia or cervical cancers include: multiple sexual partners, young age at first intercourse, unprotected intercourse, HPV, Chlamydia, and HIV, poor immune status, poor nutritional status, smoking, use of oral contraceptives, and more.  The purpose of today's post is to address use of various vaginal suppositories such as green tea suppositories, vag pak, vaginal depletion pack and others in the quest for remission of cervical dysplasia. I receive daily requests for information regarding buying these vaginal suppositories on a daily basis.  Here is a brief history on their use, my recommendations will follow below.

 

Vaginal Suppositories: Escharotic treatment
The use of escharotic or caustic treatments for epithelial cancers is based on a centuries-old observation that select plant and mineral extracts could be used to treat topical skin lesions. Two small studies show the efficacy of this treatment in reversing cervical dysplasia in women. This treatment is used for CIN I and II after a satisfactory colposcopy is performed and if there is no disease in the endocervical canal and no glandular cells present. Escharotic treatment for cervical dysplasia involves the local application of a natural enzyme, bromelain, to the surface of the cervix. This is left in place for 15 minutes with heat applied to activate the enzyme. The protein dissolving properties in bromelain dissolve the top layer of cells on the cervix which are infected and damaged by the HPV virus. A mixture of zinc chloride and a plant (Sanguinaria) is applied to the cervix to cause sloughing of abnormal tissue. Zinc chloride is caustic and acts to disrupt the cellular membrane integrity and the mucus over coating to allow the Sangunaria to penetrate the cells. Sanguinaria has been shown to have anti-neoplastic qualities. The treatment is performed twice per week with at least two days in between treatments for 4-5 weeks. The ZnCl solution is made by a compounding pharmacist.

Vaginal suppository treatment
Vaginal depletion packs have been in use since the 1800s. Vaginal depletion packs, Vag pak, work by the action of the substances within the packs, which draw infection out of the cervical cells and boast the immune system. Each suppository contains: magnesium sulfate, glycerin complex, hydrastis tincture, thuja oil, tea tree oil, bitter orange oil, vitamin-A (as palmitate) 100,000 iu, ferric sulfate,ferrous sulfate in polybase. Hydrastis canadensis is effective against many microbial pathogens, as are the essential oils of tea tree, thuja and bitter orange.Vag Pak suppositories are often used for mild dysplsia and/or high risk HPV.

Green tea suppositories are also effective for cervical dysplasia and HPV. ECGC in green tea was evaluated on cervical epithelial; cells and cervical cancer cells and HPV. Green tea inhibited cancer cell growth, induced apoptosis, decreased gene expression, and cell cycle changes. As mentioned green tea has been shown to be effective against HPV.

Critics of natural medicine say there is no published evidence that these options work or are backed in science. There are several recent published articles explaining the science and patient outcomes. One can be found at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19679625

SUMMARY
As a specialist in the area of HPV, cervical dysplasia etc, I feel it is important that a woman be informed of her options for managing cervical health. In my opinion, and clinical experience the very best outcomes occur with an individualized program addressing the patient's immune system, diet and lifestyle factors. The least invasive, most natural, safe and effective treatments that address the cause should be offered. There are times natural medicine is not an exclusive option for treating cervical cell changes due to the severity and location of disease but in many cases naturopathic treatment of cervical dysplasia and HPV is the safest and most effective option. I do not advocate suppositories alone as the condition can and does recur. With the right comprehensive treatment protocol, most of my clients reach remission in 3 to 6 months.  I do work long distance with clients so please feel free to call to schedule an appointment at 847 577-4455.  Thank you!  Next week I will investigate a phenomenon causing deaths of dogs due to pet food. Sign up here for more information and future blog posts.   Don't forget to visit our Natural Pharmacy for great prices, FRESH NEW EFFECTIVE products and free shipping on hundreds of "doctor only"products.We add new products daily. If you'd like us to offer something send us an email at DocTaryn@apple-a-day-clinic.com and I will be happy to add it.  Thanks so much. Our new website is still being developed I appreciate your patience as we perfect it. Thank you!

REFERENCES
1. Synder U. A look at cervical cancer. Medscape OB/GYN & Women's Health. 2003;8(1):1-12
2. Wheeler C. Advances in primary and secondary interventions for cervical cancer: prophylactic human papillomavirus vaccines and testing. Nat Clin Pract Oncol. 2007;4(4):224-235.
3. ACOG.org
4. Wright TC, et al. 2006 consensus guidelines for the management of women with abnormal cervical cancer screening tests. Am J OB/GYN 2007;11:346-355.
5. Wright TC, et al. 2006 consensus guidelines for the management of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or adenocarcinoma-in-situ. Am J OB/GYN 2007;11:340-345.
6. Synder U. A look at cervical cancer. Medscape OB/GYN & Women's Health. 2003;8(1):1-12
7. Weinstein SJ, et al. Low serum and red blood cell folate are moderately, but nonsignificantly associated with increased risk of invasive cervical cancer. J Nutr. 2001;131:2040-2048.
8. Schiff MA, et al. Serum carotinoids and risk of cervical epithelial neoplasia in southwestern American women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2001;10:1219-1222.

 

 

 

Join our weekly health blog for FREE Natural Health tips!

 

Interested in saving a TON on awesome, professional products with FREE shipping and Volume discounts??? Then:

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for the best prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Dietitian

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.