Legislation
   Alaska
   Naturopathic State Laws
   Response to the "OAND"
   Washington Legislation

Journal of the American Naturopathic Medical Association (JANMA)
   Vol. 11 No. 3   10/07    NEW!
   Vol. 11 No. 2   06/07
   Vol. 11 No. 1   02/07
   Vol. 10 No. 4   11/06
   Vol. 10 No. 3   07/06
   Vol. 10 No. 2   04/06
   Vol. 10 No. 1   01/06
   Vol. 9 No. 3     10/05
   Vol. 9 No. 2     07/05
   Vol. 9 No. 1     04/05
   Vol. 8 No. 4     12/04
   Vol. 8 No. 2     07/04
   Vol. 8 No. 1     03/04
   Vol. 7 No. 4     12/03
   Vol. 7 No. 3     09/03
   Vol. 7 No. 2     06/03
   Vol. 7 No. 1     04/03
   Vol. 6 No. 4
   Vol. 6 No. 3
   Vol. 6 No. 2
   Vol. 6 No. 1
   Vol. 5 No. 4
   Vol. 5 No. 3
   Vol. 5 No. 2
   Vol. 5 No. 1
   Vol. 4 No. 4
   Vol. 4 No. 3
   Vol. 4 No. 2
   Vol. 4 No. 1

Facts
   History & Demise of CNME
   CNME Bites The Dust!
   Caution Nat. Med. Edu.
   Naturopaths In Denial
   Fraud?
   NH Gov. Cavalier Response
   Ltr. to AANP From NH Leg.
   NCNM Student Remarks:
       Merry Bern Letter
       Stephen Sporn
   NCNM Student Report
   Media
   Canada
   Response to the "OAND"
   Naturopathic Lawsuits
       Lawsuit #1
       Lawsuit #2
   Licensing Vs. Certification 

The practice of medicine has been growing tremendously since 1959 when I became a physician. The "bottom line" is the progressing integration of conventional/allopathic medicine and natural/alternative medicine. The three most common and popular names of this union are Complementary and Alternative Medicine or CAMS, Integrative Medicine and Naturopathy or Naturopathic Medicine.. My observation is that most physicians are trained to render primary care that is often limited to treatment of the patients’ signs and symptoms, rather than secondarily to the search for underlying causes. We have many to thank for these changes. I feel that the greatest appreciation goes to the patients, who initiate change through their doctors with their search for healing. Patients have been frustrated with the quality and quantity of care. Doctor visits are short and impersonal. The patient only has a brief time to talk with the physician. Many patients are experiencing a trip down the yellow brick pharmaceutical road with one prescription drug after another, not getting well, and even worse because of their side and adverse effects. The prescription and physician costs may be expensive. The patient and the physician may experience frustration with the attempts to obtain reimbursement from third party insurance carriers. The various state and national governmental rules and regulations add to the problems of the doctor-patient relationship and communication. In conclusion, we have created not a dream but a nightmare in what is truly "disease" care and not the usual misnomer, "health" care. The plus side is that we are waking up!!!

Because patients have found alternative and naturopathic physicians, who offer solutions to their health problems, the conventional doctors are becoming more aware of safer and much less expensive natural treatments. I am seeing a gradual acceptance and integration of these alternative practices into true health care.

Credible Medicine (CM) is the name I selected years ago to encompass the best of all medical worlds or disciplines. CM includes allopathic or drug oriented medicine, naturopathic or natural medicine, alternative medicine, complementary medicine and holistic medicine. I feel that holistic medicine is the major key to true health practice. Holism involves the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual parts of the human being. There are generally alternatives to pharmaceuticals with natural substances in the form of vitamins, minerals, accessory food substances, herbs, homeopathic remedies and many other modalities that are indeed safer and effective. The extensive use of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are far from keeping within the moral obligation of the physician’s Hippocratic Oath to "do no harm." Allopathic medicine has a definite role in overall health care but I emphasize its major contributions are to patients in emergencies and indicated surgical procedures.

When I started my professional life’s journey from conventional medicine as the "Transition Physician" in the mid 1970’s, I was rather naive with the thought I could be part of these two worlds of medicine. However, it is most difficult for one to practice Credible Medicine and remain in the good graces of the medical establishment. I have diagnosed a condition as "The Greed Disease," which I define as the love of money, power and control as the root of all evil. There is a relationship between organized medicine, the pharmaceutical industry, the insurance industry and the governments, They are suffering from this illness. When anyone challenges, their power comes into action to eliminate the threat to their Greed Disease. Through television and radio, one can observe that the pharmaceutical and nutritional industries are responding to change with high intensity advertising and marketing of nutritional supplements.

Who taught me about LOVE in medical school? In Internship? Right, no one. I have been studying for fourteen years with a spiritual teacher, Geoffrey. I have been learning many consciousness raising lessons. I believe that LOVE is the key to all healing. It is UCLA, or UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE/FORGIVENESS of myself and of others. Picture a triangle divided into three compartments like a sandwich. On the bottom level is the PHYSICAL, in the middle is the MENTAL and EMOTIONAL and at the top is the SPIRITUAL. For the person to heal she/he must begin to resolve the negativity on the mental and emotional levels. For example, to let go of the emotions of anger, hate, fear, and jealousy, and transmute them to UCLA. We doctors look for signs and symptoms of illness. These emotions are signs and often result in the manifestation of the physical illnesses on the bottom of this triangle. To raise our consciousness and grow spiritually we begin the healing on the mental and emotional planes to resolve the physical and get to the top of the triangle. Often we can cover up the causes of the illness with the drugs or alternative nutritional supplements and fail to help the body heal itself.

Now, let me turn to eight SPIRITUAL SIGNS. I learned of eight from Geoffrey, and four from Don Miguel Ruiz from his book THE FOUR AGREEMENTS. He is a physician, who became a Toltec philosopher, teacher and writer.

I AM UNCONDITIONALLY LOVING AND ACCEPTING MYSELF EVERY DAY IN EVERY WAY. You can begin now in tuning in on your thoughts and accepting yourself just as you are and forgiving yourself in areas that you find the necessity. As you do this you also begin the same process for others in your life.

THOUGHTS CREATE. You have 18,000 thoughts or more per day. Every thought is a prayer and your prayers manifest. If you have negative thoughts you find your life in a negative mode. By changing your thoughts you change your reality. Develop a PMA or a Positive Mental Attitude.

GRATITUDE ATTITUDE. Begin in thoughts and expressions to have this appreciative nature. Eliminate the negative and accentuate the positive. I suggest that you list and verbalize all for which you are thankful each day.

THY WILL BE DONE. I consider the Creator the Master Healer for whom I am working during this lifetime. Through my payers, meditations and visualizations I aim to do my best to do HIS will and not mine. How about you?

ABUNDANCE FLOWS INTO MY LIFE. Another teacher of mine, Arnold Patent, teaches that abundance is the natural state of the universe.

I SEE REALITY AND GOODNESS IN ALL THINGS. Focus on this one!

I RELEASE MY OLD PATTERNS OF SHAME, AND GUILT AND FILL MYSELF WITH THE LIGHT OF GOOD. The price is right for a fill up at this pump. Remember a most important healing tool is to let go or release for the reward of the spiritual fuel.

I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR MY THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS. Next to unconditional love and acceptance, taking responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and also your actions is the major priority for growth and healing.

BE IMPECCABLE WITH YOUR WORD. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean, avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

DON’T TAKE ANYTHING PERSONALLY. Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others you won’t be a victim of needless suffering.

DON’T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS. Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement you can completely transform your life.

ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST. Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.

(These twelve signs have been graphically designed on color photos by the author and are available on 8 1/2 x 11 photographic paper. You may view them on www.kupmed.com)

I am teaching these twelve lessons to patients, friends and myself! You can only change yourself. You cannot change any other person. Tough lesson that has taken me years to learn and to practice. So many people develop awareness of their health problems and the solutions but are not ready to take the step from the awareness to the practice of getting well. The time interval varies as well as the percentage of positive steps a person takes. So, my patients as well as my friends have been teaching me the lesson of UCLA, unconditional love and acceptance, and I find some situations most difficult to master.

Now, I would like to discuss with you what I have named COMMON DENOMINATORS OF DISEASE. Since my first published article I have expanded to the present form. (Y-U-R SICK, Common Denominators of Degenerative Disease by Roy B. Kupsinel, M.D. THE DIGEST OF CHIROPRACTIC ECONOMICS, Vol. 26. No. 8. May/June 1983). With each Denominator I shall give brief comments. Bear in mind that I have great respect for life and fellow human beings. I always address the patient with the illness rather than refer to the diagnosis and treatment of it.

1. CHRONIC CANDIDIASIS

This condition is present in males as well as females. It is often easily recognized in the female because she may have an overt fungal vaginal infection with the characteristic "cottage cheese" discharge. A conventional physician from Birmingham, AL, C.O. Truss, MD brought this condition to light about 1980. His works were published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine and in his book THE MISSING DIAGNOSIS. The toxins from this microorganism, Candida albicans, cannot only cause signs and symptoms in the vagina and the gastrointestinal tract but also from its absorption into the body with various physical, mental and emotional manifestations. There is an acceptable immunological test that I use (ImmunoLabs, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.) and I have prepared the CANDIDA QUESTIONNAIRE that helps me with diagnosis. Although prescription drugs are available, I am able to treat the patient without them with natural substances.

I estimate that at least 95% of my patients have or have had amalgam fillings. This figure is probably the same for the general population of our country. The silver fillings in the teeth are about 50% mercury, a toxic heavy metal. Combined with four other metals in the filling -- silver, zinc, tin and copper- in the filling, and the saliva, there is a battery effect and an abnormal electrical field is set up within the oral cavity. Only two metals and an electrolyte solution, the saliva, are necessary for this battery effect. The mercury vaporizes especially when eating foods or drinking warm or hot beverages and about 80% goes south into the lungs, then the blood stream and finally to the organs, tissues and glands. In addition, the fillings corrode and the microscopic particles go south via the intestinal tract. Here bacteria convert the elemental mercury to organic mercury that is about 100 times more toxic. Mercury irritates the gastrointestinal tract, enhances the fungus infection of Candida albicans and enters the blood stream like the mercury vapors and wages warfare on organs, tissues and glands with the possibility of physical, mental, and emotional disturbances. Frequently, the illnesses do not manifest for some time after the placement of the fillings and there is no association between cause and effect by the average dentist, physician and/or patient. The abnormal electricity from the battery effect may also cause disturbances. Often there is enough electricity to cause the nerves to fire and contract the jawbone muscles. How many patients have TMJ (jaw joint) problems secondary to this electrical shock? One local dentist told me that about 90% of his patients with the TMJ problem have it resolved with removal and replacement of the mercury fillings. Yet, most dentists do not know this, often grind down the patient’s teeth, and prescribe oral appliances to treat the effect. I question the electrical effect as a factor in sinusitis and headaches with or without the added toxic mercury?

The frequently asked question, "What do I do about my fillings?" There are non- metallic substitutes called composite fillings for replacement. Let me caution you that it is most important that you consult with a knowledgeable dentist and, if available physician, before you go about this removal and replacement. It is not a simple process and it is important that you, the patient, take responsibility for your health and insure that the dental work is done properly. It is imperative to have biocompability testing done before the removal and replacement. Some of the composites may be very comfortable in your mouth but others may not be. There are tests available. Other considerations are sequential removal, intravenous vitamin C and avoiding the Circadian cycle of 7, 14, 21, etc. days. Further discussion is beyond the scope of this article. I suggest that you educate yourself first. I have written, revised and have reprinting for the fourth time the booklet, A PATIENT’S GUIDE TO MERCURY-AMALGAM TOXICITY (PG.). I have produced an audio tape --HOW TO GO ABOUT AMALGAM REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT and a referral list entitled the AMALGAM DIRECTORY, available on the web site, <www.kupmed.com>. The Amalgam Directory lists primarily dentists proficient in this anti-amalgam field and others with related services. In the Patient’s Guide, two areas of increasing concern are discussed -- root canals and cavitations.

BARNES:

The pioneer in this field is Broda Barnes, M.D., Ph.D., who refolded in his 90’s. His book, HYPOTHYROIDISM-THE UNSUSPECTED ILLNESS is a classic and is available in bookstores and health stores. He stated that 40% of the population has low thyroid function. In my practice I find over 90% are hypothyroid. Barnes developed the Basal Temperature Study (BTS) that I have combined in a form with the Thyroid Appraisal Indicator (TAI). I use this for the diagnosis and for following the progress of the patient. The TAI lists all the symptoms I gathered from his book and subsequently learned. These may be associated with hypothyroidism but some are common to those common denominators discussed above and those to follow. The BTS is a simple, costless test that takes only two ten minute periods on two consecutive days. If you still have one, you may use an oral or rectal mercury thermometer. (Do not break it!) Currently, mercury thermometers are unavailable and I recommend one with gallium called GERATHERM. (Warning: Do not use a digital thermometer for the results may not be accurate.) Shake down the thermometer and place it bedside at night. When you awaken and before you get out of bed in the morning place it deeply in your armpit for ten minutes by the clock. Then take the reading. Do for two consecutive days and average. The normal is 97.8 to 98.2 degrees. Below is suggestive of hypothyroidism and above, of hyperthyroidism. You must be fever free to start and must be at the resting state upon awakening. For an infant the study can be done rectally and add one degree to the above normal range. Barnes had found the conventional thyroid tests often normal or negative, equivocal or confusing. They measure what is going on in the blood and not in the organs, tissues and glands of the body. I found the same and the tests costly!

For this very common denominator, treatment is generally with the natural prescription drug called Thyroid, USP, iodine-the key thyroid mineral and the necessary vitamins as in a multiple, especially the B-complex. An alternative is the use of essential oils such as Myrtle and Endoflex combined with Thyromin (available from Young Living Essential Oils). The majority of conventional physicians use the synthetic product Synthroid or Levoxyl. I prefer the natural and less expensive preparations and the particular one called Westhroid (Thyroid, USP). If you are unable to get a prescription for Thyroid, USP, a thyroid glandular product like Thyrocomplex (Progressive Laboratories) is an alternative.

There are reasons for being hypothyroid. For one, the mercury from the fillings may have an adverse effect and contribute to it’s under functioning. With amalgam removal and replacement, as with thyroid hormone treatment, the BTS often rises and the TAI symptoms come down. Often chlorine and fluoride are found in drinking water, processed beverages and foods. They poison the thyroid gland. They are in the same chemical family (halogens) as iodine that is the key mineral for the thyroid. They compete with the iodine and impair hormone production.

Here are a few hypothyroid "bits and pieces". The late Broda Barnes, M.D., Ph.D. visited me for a few days in Oviedo in the early 1980’s and gave a talk to a group of my patients and friends. I learned so much from him. He told me that all red heads are hypothyroid. In addition, these tall basketball players are also hypothyroid. The growing ends of the long bones have epiphyses. The thyroid hormone tells the epiphyses to stop growing around age eighteen. If the production of the thyroid hormone is low, the epiphyses do not get the message. The bones continue to grow with the result in a much taller than average human being. Did you ever see the basketball player, Yao Ming, on television? He is a perfect example! Loss of the outer third of the eyebrows is a sign of hypothyroidism!

WILSON:

Denis Wilson, MD has developed a protocol for the treatment of WILSON’S THYROID SYNDROME (WTS) now called WILSON’S TEMPERATURE SYNDROME. His diagnosis and treatment parallels that of Barnes but there are some major differences. The diagnosis depends on the presence of symptoms of low thyroid function, enumerated in his Thyroid Symptom Check List and a low body temperature based on oral temperatures and three hour intervals, beginning in the early morning and averaged (normal is 98.6). Thyroid function tests such as TSH, T-4, and T-3 may be ordered but are not necessary for the diagnosis and treatment.

Before discussing the treatment, here is a brief view on the physiology. The pituitary gland secretes Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) that tells the thyroid gland to produce T-4. An enzyme normally converts T-4 to T-3, the active thyroid hormone that keeps the body in metabolic balance. For various reasons, some people do not efficiently convert T-4 to T-3 and end up with Reverse T-3 with the result of the body temperature going down and the symptoms coming up. A synthetic form of T-4 is called Synthroid and is the most commonly thyroid medication used by conventional doctors. Another form of T-4 is Levoxyl.

The WTS treatment consists of taking sustained released T-3 capsules, e.g. 7.5 mcg twice a day at an exact twelve-hour interval, increasing dosages each day by 7.5 mcg, to capture the normal temperature of 98.6, continuing on this dosage for two weeks, and then gradually reducing and stopping. The treatment period is about one month. A patient may repeat the series a few times if he or she does not capture the temperature at 98.6.

When this method works, the patient’s result is most rewarding. I have been treating patients with WTS therapy for about five years. I find 75% of my patients do very well, capture their temperature and reduce their symptoms. They usually take one to five series. Some do need another series down the road for stress, which is a factor that may lower the temperature. The beauty of successful treatment is that the patient has no need to take further thyroid prescription medication. With the Barnes Method, the patient takes Thyroid, USP indefinitely. The other 25% of patients seem to have problems in tolerating the medication. The use of the Barnes Method is an alternative.

You may learn more about WTS from going to the web site wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com. Here you will also find a referral list of area physicians. Dr. Wilson has written a most understandable and cleverly illustrated book for both the patient and the doctor called THE DOCTOR’S MANUAL. You may read it for free on the web site, order it, or both.

Physiological reactions to food substances are often conceived as a psychological phenomenon among many medical professionals. Some earmark the condition as a catch-all phrase to describe any unremarkable state of health not clearly or concisely defined by medicine or science as a discipline. It has been substantiated by many scientific methods that food allergy or intolerance disorders are adverse reactions to foods consumed by humans. The rise in the number of harmful bodily responses to foreign substances throughout the life span of the human body deserves a closer inquiry into this problematic situation. The diagnosis and treatment methods vary widely and are addressed allopathically and alternatively.

Originally the term "allergy" meant to the common population that there was a reaction of some sort enough to be bothersome. It wasn’t until the 1920’s that an actual cause was identified as a type of antibody called "Regin" or IgE. Thus coined by medicine, the response or reaction is said to be IgE-mediated (physiology: to act as a medium that transfers something from one place to another). This is particularly true when inhalants are used for allergic reactions. IgE-mediated food reactions are often "fixed" which means that prolonged exposure to a particular substance, in this case food, suddenly causes symptoms identified with those correlating to a food allergy per se.

Food allergy affects between 5% and 7.5% of children and between 1% and 2% of adults.¹⁵ Adverse reactions to foods may result from enzyme deficiencies such as lactose intolerance, exaggerated pharmacologic responses to natural or added chemical agents such as vasoactive amines in wines or immunologic response.

The primary target organs for food allergy reactions are the skin, the gastrointestinal tract, and the respiratory system. Both acute reactions (hives and anaphylaxis) and chronic disease (asthma, atopic dermatitis and gastrointestinal disorders) may be caused or exacerbated by food allergy.¹⁹ The skin is a common target organ characterized by lesions or rash usually occurring within one hour after ingestion or of contact with the causal food. Several IgE-mediated reactions to foods have a beginning phase in the GI tract. Oral allergy syndrome displays edema of the oral mucosa with allergic sensitivity to pollens and proteins found in pollens, fruits and vegetables. Celiac disease (wheat allergy) causes chronic steatorrhea (excess fat in stools), flatulence and weight loss.

Hypersensitivity to gluten (protein combination found in some cereals- especially wheat which makes dough elastic, and enables it to rise by trapping gas) explains the characteristic diagnostic feature of extensive flattening of villi in intestinal wall lining. Allergic eosinophilic (a granular white blood cell that stains with the dye eosin and is thought to play a part in allergic reactions and the body’s response to parasitic diseases) gastroenteritis causes reactions of severe reflux, postprandial abdominal pain, vomiting, early satiety and diarrhea.

The upper region of the respiratory tract becomes inflamed with allergic rhinitis constituting nasal congestion, rhinorrhea sneezing and pruritus. Asthma could result from inhaling vapors of causative food or from consumption. Anaphylaxis is a dramatic multi-organ reaction, a serious disorder, accompanied by the inability to breathe (lacking oxygen) due to swelling tissues.

Because of the lack of IgE (Ig-immunoglobulin E-mediated food allergies can be classified as those that persist indefinitely and those that are predominantly transient¹⁴) antibody involvement in the reactionary process, food allergies are often referred to as food sensitivities or food intolerances. Therefore, in a true allergy, the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or a component of a food as a harmful substance. This causes certain cells to make antibodies top release histamines to fight the culprit food or food component referred to as the allergen. In other words, allergies occur when an unchecked immune system misidentifies and attacks innocent substances in the body. In the case of food allergies, the cause is most likely undigested proteins found in most milk. Typical symptoms of a food allergy include: 1) hives, itching or eczema; 2) swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat; 3) sneezing or nasal congestion; 4) diarrhea, vomiting or nausea accompanied by abdominal pain; and 5) dizziness or fainting. ¹

Food intolerances, on the other hand, may cause a few of the same symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, cramping or diarrhea but the immune system is not compromised. This is not to say that food intolerances should be taken lightly. Food intolerances still encompass another kind of immune mechanism (IgG – a group of antibodies, predominant in serum, that help to prepare the immune system for the period of infancy) complexities of the immune system and cell-mediated reactions. There are blood tests that can diagnose the culprit but usually the IgG-mediated reactions are not fixed. This means that foods can slowly be reintroduced back into the diet in moderate amounts without causing symptoms.

The most common food allergy or tolerance symptoms have already been addressed. It is significant to note that many other medical outcomes can be identified also. Some of these include: asthma, sinus conditions, allergic sore throat, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, malabsorption, sleep disorders, migraines, foggy thinking, dermatitis, arthritis, urinary irritation, bed wetting, chronic ear infections, edema, hypoglycemia, diabetes, premenstrual syndrome and fatigue. This list is unending simply for the reasons that every reaction bears weight on a person’s constitutional type. That is to say that every human body is not alike. The differences are collective in different reactions.

The human body is a beautiful machine operating 24/7 to aggressively maintain homeostasis – a balance of health and well being. The liver, in particular, emits histamine to ward off potential amazing antigens and acts as a security guard against any type of allergy or intolerant reaction. However, occasionally, other factors play a role in association with negative food feedback. Heredity is often cited as a cause of food allergies and certainly plays a role since a recessive gene has been identified as being linked to IgE-mediated food allergies. ²

According to ------ the most common cause of multiple food allergies is having a "leaky gut" or increased intestinal permeability. From an anatomical perspective, large molecules of undigested food pass through small openings of the intestinal lining and into the bloodstream. One of the liver’s functions is to detox or clear the blood impurities. However, if the amount overwhelms the liver, its capacity to do so falters. The immune system then kicks in and produces antibodies binding with the food as it travels through the bloodstream ready to begin the process of causing problems on any organ/part of the body.

For instance, the leaky gut syndrome can result from babies born with an immature intestinal tract setting up for a higher incidence of intestinal permeability. Toxins such as cytotoxic drugs used to treat cancer, nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat pain in arthritis or headache, and corticosteroid drugs used for antibiotics, radiation therapy and alcohol all contribute to possible causes of leaky gut. Nutritional deficiencies, poor digestion, inflammatory bowel disease and infections from protozoan parasites and food borne illness pathogens are other factors that offer a greater opportunity to increase intestinal permeability.

Prescription and non-prescription drugs list a plethora of side effects but unfortunately many consumers do not read the fine print. In one study, indomethacin, a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, induced symptoms of Chron’s disease (sometimes called regional enteritis, a chronic inflammation of the intestines resulting from an extreme reaction of the immune system) in normal mice. The demonstration of increased intestinal permeability in patients with active Chron’s disease suggests there may be a pre-existing abnormality that allows an exaggerated immune response to normal gut contents to occur.¹³ In referencing the PDR (Physician’s Desk Reference) there is a warming of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation when using any of the NSIDs such as Ibuprofen, aspirin or arthritic anti-inflammatory.³

In healthy individuals, the body performs miraculous feats to assure that a state of well-being exists on an ongoing basis provided nutritious meals, physical exercise and practical sense are part of the regiment to healthy living. Symbiosis is one of those healthy states in which the possibility of over 400 species of friendly bacteria detoxify, produce vitamins and protect from unfriendly organisms. Even in the best of all worlds, these dogmatic pathogens can upset the balance and cause the condition of dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is a state of living with intestinal flora that has harmful effects due to putrefaction (a condition resulting from diets high in fat and animal flesh and low in insoluble fiber). Protozoan parasites from (i.e., Giardia lamblia); yeast (Candida albicans); bacteria (Salmonella, E. scherchiacoli or Staphylococcus aureus) aid in the diagnosis of dysbiosis and can cause severe illness in a chronically ill, weakened or malnourished patient.⁵ While most of us welcome the relief of any illness treated with antibiotics along comes the realization that friendly bacteria are also killed in the process of recovery leading to opportunistic hosts by yeast, unfriendly bacteria, and parasites. Bacterial enzymes can degrade pancreatic enzymes, damage the intestinal brush border, deconjugate and reduce bile acids and alter the intestinal milieu in numerous ways, some of which can be easily measured in a properly collected stool. Certainly the rise of industrial technology has opened the path to international travel, thus, an introduction to the parasite jungle. Even if one doesn’t travel, imported produce and immigrants from sub-standard sanitary conditions bring the parasites to local vicinities.

Dysbiosis can also be the sum of maldigestion or diet. According to Dr. Martin lee, colonic flora works best when the enemy isn’t nourished.⁶ Excess meat or vegetable fibers or triglycerides suggest maldigestion.⁹ Elaine Gottshall claims in her book, Breaking the Vicious Cycle, that a diet high in flesh protein and low in plant foods promotes the growth of unfriendly bacteria, especially the Bacteroides species.⁷ By the same token, Dr. William Cook states that sugar must be avoided to curtail the onset of Candida. Recent German studies suggest that very low carbohydrate diets may be counterproductive because they cause the Candida to become invasive and penetrate deeper into the tissues in search of food. ⁸

A putrefaction dysbiosis is accompanied by an increase in fecal concentrations of various bacterial enzymes which metabolize bile acids to tumor promoters and deconjugate excreted estrogens, raising the plasma estrogen level. ¹⁰ Digestive enzymes, large complex protein molecules, help you break down your food into smaller less allergenic molecules, thus decreasing the reaction to the foods you eat.

Fermentation is a condition of carbohydrate intolerance induced by overgrowth of endogenous bacteria in the stomach, small intestine and cecum.¹¹ Small bowel bacterial overgrowth can cause pancreatic insufficiency, mucosal damage and malabsorption. Gastric bacterial overgrowth also increases the risk of systemic infection. In this case, it can also increase passive intestinal permeability. ¹²

Proper testing encompasses assessing a suspected food allergy or intolerance by recording food intake and symptoms over a period of several weeks. This procedure should note the suspected foods, amounts consumed, length of time between ingestion and symptoms.

In order to identify specific foods or to proclaim a diagnosis for skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory reactions to foods, certain laboratory testing must take place for accuracy and scientific analysis.

Prick-puncture skin testing involves a bifurcated needle or a lancet to puncture the skin and deposit a glycerinated extract of a food. The control substances can be either positive (histamine) or negative (saline-glycerin). Any spot produced over 3mm indicates a positive response. Fresh extracts are highly recommended otherwise there may be an unacceptably high false-positive. ²⁰

Blood tests are more favorable among patients because hundreds of foods can be tested using one blood sample. Blood tests can also detect immediate or delayed reactions. RAST (Radio-Allergo-Sorbent Test) and ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay) tests can detect either IgE or IgG antibodies to foods. RAST are higher desirable because the tests for IgE are less sensitive than skin tests and the numbers of food tested are less due to selective measures on only a few food items known to be commonly responsible for reactions.

The ultimate standard for diagnosing food allergy is the double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. The key is avoidance of suspected foods for two weeks with reductions in asthma medications and antihistamine therapy. Using intravenous access, graded doses of either a challenge food or a placebo food are administered.

For non IgE-mediated reactions, elimination diets with gradual reintroduction of foods and supervised oral food challenges are often necessary to identify the causal foods. ²²

In the case of dysbiosis caused by bacteria or yeast, a comprehensive digestive stool analysis (CDSA) test can take place. This type of test is different from a stool culture in a microbial capacity because it investigates the presence and amount or absence of all aerobic organisms and friendly anaerobic organisms. It also supplies the presence and amount or absence of undigested protein and plant fibers, fats, fatty acids, occult blood, and other metabolic markers.

The Institute of Parasitic Diseases offers a comprehensive test which reports types of organisms not uniformly considered pathogenic on conventional medicine standard tests for parasites. In spite of vigorous testing protocol, Dr. Leo Galland says that parasitological testing should be taken with a grain of slat because stool samples contain a lot of debris combined with few parasites, eggs, or cysts. ²³

There are several controversial testing methods worth mentioning here. It seems prudent that if one is considering upon advisement to have any of the following suggested test performed that additional research and second opinion methods be aggressively enforced before a final decision is made. It is not the author’s intent to advocate any particular type of testing for the purpose of this paper.

Several physicians have claimed that Bryan’s Test is useful for diagnosis, however, the Leukocytotoxic testing has never been proven effective by controlled studies. In many double-blind controlled studies, cytotoxic tests afforded no reliable help in establishing the diagnosis of food and inhalant allergy because positive cytotoxic effect were frequently obtained to foods that produced no clinical symptoms, and negative cytotoxic reactions were obtained to foods that did produce clinical symptoms. ²⁴

The ELISA-ACT test claims to locate "hidden allergies" in which symptoms show up anywhere from two hours to five days which makes the diagnosis more difficult. The procedure entails culturing a patient’s lymphocytes and reducing the reactions of up to 300 foods, minerals, preservatives, and other environmental substances. The downside of this test is that many of the immune responses are not necessarily related to an allergy.²⁵ Note: This test should not be confused with the ELISA test previously mentioned, which is a standard test for certain infectious diseases.

Whether the approach for treatment is an allopathic or alternative method, an important step is considered a special diet. Elimination of the offending foods is successful in one or two allergic reactions. One must remember that elimination of proteins is a difficult task according to Dr. Scott Sicherer of Mount Sinai School of Medicine. He states that individuals must be educated about food allergies, food labels and scientifically proven treatment. For example, lactose-free milk contains cow’s milk-protein, and many egg substitutes contain chicken-egg proteins. A spatula used to serve cookies both with and without peanut butter can contaminate the peanut-free cookie with enough protein to cause a reaction. A rotation diet is successful for multiple food allergies where foods are eaten at intervals of four to five days or longer. The duration of rotation diets varies within a physician’s discretion. On a rotation diet, foods are rotated according to their biological classification in food families because foods in the same family have similar antigens.

Some medications and supplements are recommended to help deal with food allergy symptoms. Gastrocom is sodium cromolyn taken orally for food allergies and works to prevent the release of histamine and other chemicals. A common suggestion to allergy clients is a bicarbonate preparation such as Alka Seltzer Gold or Tri-Salts. The quick action of these mixtures alkalizes the blood since allergic reactions tend to raise the acid level of pH in the body. As precautionary measures to prevent a disturbance in the natural process of utilizing hydrochloric acid to aid in good digestion, use these bicarbonate solutions approximately twenty minutes after a meal to which there was a reaction. Because any of these types of preparations neutralize stomach acid, over-use can interfere with digestion of consequent meals.

There are two types of immunotherapy (allergy shots) that were developed in the 1960’s and still widely used today. Again, there is a great deal of controversy as to whether these methods are effective for food allergies but rather to pollens responsible for symptoms of oral allergy syndrome.²⁶ Neutralization testing is a technique for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disease in which a subcutaneous injection of antigen in sufficient quantity is administered to elicit symptoms corresponding to the patient’s complaints.²⁷ Thereafter, an injection of a weaker or stronger dilution of the same antigen is administered. Under controlled circumstances, the validity of this procedure should be performed and reserved.

In 1944, F. K. Hansel suggested the sublingual provocative test as a means of atopic disease treatment.²⁸ The theory behind the testing approach is for food-induced respiratory, gastrointestinal and other systemic symptoms. The method allows the placement of three drops of 1:100 (w/v) aqueous extracted and glycerinated allergenic extract under the tongue. The time frame is within ten minutes for the appearance of symptoms.²⁹ Thereafter, a neutralizing dose is given in a dilute solution [e.g. 1:300,000 (w/v)] of the same extract. Although there has been documented success of this test and treatment, several articles in the Journal of American Medical Association do not support the validity of such treatment. ^{30, 31}

For those individuals who have cases of severe reactions, it is imperative to keep an emergency kit handy at all times packed with a device to inject epinephrine (adrenaline) and oral histamine. The main emphasis is on immediate administration of epinephrine at the first sign of symptoms.

A third type of immunotherapy is enzyme potentiated desensitization (EPD) which was developed by Dr. Leonard McEwen in England in 1960’s.³² The enzyme, Beta-glucuronidase is a natural enzyme already existing in the human body. This low dose immunotherapy works by stimulating the body to make T-suppressor lymphocytes specific for allergen suppression. This unique procedure essentially trains the body not to have allergic reactions. Low dose allergen (LDA) therapy was developed specifically for American-made products or American allergens. EPD injections are taken at two month intervals with a high success rate (60-80%) of cessation and symptom free. EPD is currently banned form the United States due to problems with the FDA. It is worthy to note that EDP is effective for inhalant allergies, food intolerances, and chemical sensitivities which appear to be a favorable solution since all problems are treated at once. The following is a list of conditions that EDP has been doing well: hay fever, asthma, eczema, food allergies, preservative allergies, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), autism, Tourette’s syndrome, Chron’s Disease, migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythmatosis. ³³

Alternative

As part of the physiological response to an allergic reaction, the human body produces most cells to release histamine and other mediating chemicals. Vitamin C helps to stabilize these mast cells to prevent the likelihood of letting go of these substances. Because Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, the body excretes it readily. It is recommended that the intake level should be every two hours at a dosage of the current RDA chart. Another water soluble vitamin, B5 or Pantothenic Acid, has been used in overall general cases of allergy relief because of its support to the adrenal glands in supplying the necessary hormones to cope with allergies.

Vegetables and fruits need to be an essential part of the diet as well as vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and fiber. The amount of these powerhouse nutrients provided is crucial to cell and tissue repair in healing the gastrointestinal tract. Essential fatty acids (EFA) play a pivotal role in intestinal integrity. Some examples are salmon, mackerel and flaxseed oil.

Proper sanitation of foods during storage and preparation lessens the ability of foreign organisms to affect our health. Two disinfectants particularly beneficial for use at home or travel are grapeseed extract (nutribiotic).

The actual chewing or mastication of food should be done in a relaxed state of enjoyment. Consumption of foods during stressful times only aids to incomplete digestion of foods which pass through the leaky gut into the bloodstream. In spite of the fluid rule of the past, moderate intake of one to two glasses of water with a meal improves digestion by facilitating both the production of gastric secretions at the time you eat and the secretion of bicarbonate from the pancreas into the small intestine that normally occurs one to two hours after a meal.³³

Pancreatin is an extract used for the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Because Pancreatin is made from the pancreas of cow and pig, consider that if one is allergic to beef or pork than this remedy would be intolerable.

Some plant based enzymes, like Aspergillus orazeae, actively work on the digestion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

To help soothe the digestive tract and bowel, Christopher Hobbs recommends the following tea: 1 part marshmallow root, ¼ part licorice root, ½ part peppermint, ½ part chamomile flowers and ¼ part fennel. Marshmallow and licorice are soothing to the mucous membranes. Peppermint relieves gas and intestinal spasms. Camomile is relaxing to the bowels with its anti-inflammatory properties. Fennel removes gas and stimulates the production of digestive enzymes. The tea smells and tastes delicious and helps to relieve diarrhea, gas and painful digestion.³⁴

To keep the liver functioning at or near 100 percent will help to rid the body of toxins and works to diligently release histamine when necessary. Liver and bile herbs such as dandelion, burdock root or artichoke leaf blended with ginger root to make a tea ceremoniously keeps the liver working efficiently.

The German people love bitters profusely found in pharmacies, apothecaries and vendor shops in tourist traffic areas in Europe. Bitter tonic remedies include gentian, artichoke leaves, orange peel, cardamom seed, ginger and fennel. The "bitter" tasting concoction improves the vitality and function of the digestive organs and the immune system.

Specifics to a determined diet for dysbiosis are large quantities of soluble and insoluble fiber and low in saturated fat and animal protein. This diet is similar to the arrangement of foods on the Food Guide Pyramid. To increase concentrations of friendly bacteria levels of Lactobacilus, Bifidobacteria and lactic acid Streptococci, fermented dairy foods like fresh yogurt are recommended. Diet Putrefaction benefits from this diet in that insoluble fiber decreases bacterial concentration and microbial enzyme activity while soluble fiber tends to elevate bacterial concentration and enzyme activity while it raises levels of short chain fatty acids.³⁵

As for fermentation dysbiosis, a diet free of cereal grains and added sugar is generally the most helpful.³⁶  The use of carrot juice for bacterial diarrhea has been used in Europe for several years.

To prevent bacterial growth, antibiotics are often prescribed but cautionary thought should take place as to whether these drugs will cause or help control dysbiosis. Instead, herbal antibiotics offer a safer venue and less, if any, side effects. Citrus seed extract has a broad spectrum of antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-protozoan effect. The recommended dosage is 600 to 1600 mg/day. Two other herbal antibiotic suggestions are Bayberry leaf for enterobacteria and yeast and Artemisia annua for protozoan activity. There are a couple of contraindications worth mentioning when using an herbal remedy for intestinal dysbiosis. Probiotics should be not taken while under treatment for parasitic infections because bacteria are "food" for protozoan parasites as offered by Dr. Leo Galland. He also states that it is necessary to avoid all antioxidants because botanical medicines kill parasites and bacteria by oxidizing them, and thus, antioxidants reduce the effectiveness of this remedies.³⁸

Case Study

For the purpose of this paper, only the specific medical information relevant to the history of the diagnosis of food allergy is presented here. There are, however, some factors which pose an inquiry for research should other future debilitating illnesses occur. To begin with, the patient’s name, Rachel, will be used on a first-name basis only to avoid confidential information and the right of privacy to the patient. Rachel’s diet, during her childhood years, consisted of high fat, high sugar, low nutrient percentages. In spite of "junk food" consumption, Rachel’s BMI remained lower than average for her age. She reports that the typical food items were Papa Murphy’s pizza, Kraft macaroni and cheese, and McDonald’s cheeseburgers and French fries accompanied by Pepsi soft drink. Rachel drinks coffee and was introduced to caffeine at the age of twelve. She also loved to chew gum constantly from the ages of four to fifteen.

Rachel states that she was involved in an automobile accident before she was ten years old. A family chiropractor performed skeletal manipulations for a whiplash injury from the incident. During another episode, Rachel received a minor spinal injury and states "she had the wind knocked out of her" from the force of the impact. More noticeable childhood bumps and bruises occurred around the head area.

Her family has moved three times in the last ten years. At the age of ten, the family lived in an apartment where the means of temperature regulation was from an electric heat source which spewed out dust, smoke and mold. Prior to this living arrangement, Rachel experienced sinusitis and nosebleeds. Her autoimmune system was already impaired at this point. At the age of eleven, Rachel lived in a home for four years where mold was a major issue for illness conditions. From 2002 until present, the family has lived in their second home with no apparent allergy induces. Rachel does report that her sinus condition is worse in the winter which is indicative of an environmental reaction. Travel plans have remained in the United States with visits to Charlotte, NC at the ages of nine and thirteen, and to Cleveland, Ohio at the age of twelve. Rachel does not report any significant changes in her health as a result of these excursions. Rachel does not recall any incidence of food poisoning and has experienced the essence of exotic food in calamari and a Philippine dish served at home. To date, there has not been a test conducted for parasitic enterocolitis established by an O&P (ova and parasite) stool culture. Rachel states no history of bacterial infection but does have a recurring fungal infection of the toenail and treats with a prescribed Lamisil spray during the summer months only.

After seeking a Naturopath for chronic symptoms of migraine headaches, nausea, and discomfort, Rachel was given a recommendation to begin a trial of B12 to increase levels of iron and diffuse anemia prognosis. Immediately, her skin tone went from pale, grey coloration to pink, healthy skin. In four weeks time, after food allergy test results, Rachel experienced less stomach pain, less frontal probe and neck/cerebellum pain, and less frequency and intensity of migraine headaches. Within five months of diet changes, the chronic nausea and GI discomfort disappeared. Rachel also reports that as soon as she discontinued taking Celebrex daily, the headaches went away. The frequency of migraines diminished to three a month. Eventually, between six to 12 months, the migraines ceased to only one per month and return during stressful times or new food allergies are identified.

Specific Allopathic Medical History

Specific Alternative Testing

Conclusion

Scientific evidence has proven that food allergy or food intolerance is not a myth, nor is it a psychological determinant to one’s health. The reality of the physiological suffering demonstrates the validity of adverse reactions to all types of foods especially cassein in milk, gluten in wheat, soy, eggs and corn. The diagnosis of any repetitive symptom warrants careful scrutinizing to avoid unnecessary testing and medications. Often the protocol is to treat disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with antacids. Although this recommendation certainly relives common symptoms of food allergies and deems appropriate to do, it only masks the symptom for a temporary solution and avoids the inevitable precursor of the physical effect in the first place. Preventive measures far better serve the purpose here of relieving all physical symptoms of adverse reactions to food substances. It most certainly does not advocate a prediction of mental incapacity in a neurological sense. In an effort, as a last resort, it is often an allopathic protocol to establish psychiatric tendencies.

While, in some cases, it is cannot be dismissed, the suggestion that an individual may be suffering because of a mental disorder is not only insulting but unsubstantiated due to lack of scientific or medical validity. The beleaguered patient will continue to suffer not only repetitive physical pain but also a loss of dignity.

The types of medications prescribed for symptomatic complaints are counterproductive for food allergies or intolerances. In the adopted case study, Rachel was taking Imitrex for migraine headaches, with known side effects of headache pain, anxiety and depression. Her headaches continued and depression was noted in which Penlac was then prescribed. Because of her sinusitis, Rachel tool Allegra daily with known side effects of headache pain and nausea in which Reglan was then prescribed. Ironically, Reglan also has an adverse reaction of anxiety and depression.

Fortunately, at one point, it had been discussed with Rachel’s neurologist to consider the possibility of consulting a Naturopath. Her physical condition had shown some improvement, however, migraine headaches were daunting leaving Rachel fatigued, frustrated and dissatisfied with intakes of multiple medicines. The success of the alternative treatment of food diet rotation, B12, Rhodiola, Grapeseed extract, and Probiotics has left Rachel symptom free as of this writing.

Endless cases, like Rachel’s, could easily be prevented if efficient, effective educational materials were readily available to all medical professionals, parents, school officials and other members of society who remain influential in a child’s life. Needless dosages of plausible medications throwing off the delicate balance of homeostasis within the human body could be avoided. The impact of this valuation formation is extremely important at an early age to avoid countless unnecessary testing and damaging drugs. Just as immunizations are required for the protection of the child’s immune system, it deems appropriate to consider the welfare of the child’s body, mind and spirit through valuable resources of nutritional insight and impact throughout the life span of development. Seeking several opinions fro the medical society focuses on a clear path to solving redundant symptoms is acceptable to a certain point. If resolution does not come within a reasonable length of time (i.e., at least within one year) then steps should be taken to definitely reflect upon a food allergy condition. Similar individual cases conducted for research for this inquiry article denote the same conclusion.

REFERENCES

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Leg of Lamb:
Health Wisdom From The Farm

By: Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismaijer
Institute for the Study of Culturogenic Disease
P.O. Box 1880, Pahoa, Hawaii 96778
(808)935-5563

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

ANMA 25^th Annual Convention
A Huge Success!

The 25th annual American Naturopathic Medical Association Educational Seminar and Convention was a huge success. Celebrating 25 years of hard work and dedication. As always ANMA offers 3 days of educational seminars in which attendees earned 23 hours of continuing education to renew certification and licensing. Clayton College of Natural Health presented the ANMA with a beautiful plaque recognizing ANMA’s contribution and devotion to naturopathy. Dr. Donald Hayhurst, President Emeritus and other past presidents and board members joined in the celebration. It was a great weekend and a great time for all who attended!

Dr. Donald Hayhurst (President Emeritus) and Wife Patricia Celebrating ANMA's Success

	ANMA Convention Lectures

ANMA Convention Exhibitors

	Convention Exhibitor Drucker Labs (www.druckerlabs.com)

When you consider your future plans for adding equipment and skills to improve your business you should plan on attending the 26^th Annual ANMA Convention and Educational Seminar. ANMA’s 25^th Annual Convention was a huge success and will continue to grow. This year ANMA will have over 100 exhibitors representing every possible natural modality and the latest innovations in therapies and products to improve your practice. Last year exhibitors hosted a raffle and provided 100’s of free gifts for convention attendees. Many merchants also offered convention discounts on orders placed at the convention.

In addition to the considerable number of exhibits, ANMA also provides an extensive 3 day lecture schedule. Knowing that education can be your greatest asset, ANMA gives you the opportunity to pick up your continuing education at our annual convention.

If your excited to attend our upcoming 26th Annual Convention, please print, complete and mail the convention registration form to ANMA, P.O. Box 96273, Las Vegas, NV 89193.

 

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

 

 

Seven Steps To Successfully Market
Your Alternative Practice 

Entrepreneur Magazine recommends having a budget of at least $5,500 for your first year in business. After you have paid for supplements, furniture, staff and anything else necessary to get your practice up and running, will you have any money left over for marketing? Luckily, there are free ways to market your practice and increase your clientele. All you have to do is be committed to implementing a seven-step process to get the results you want – more patients. These seven steps will bring you immediate patient referrals in a very short time. I have personally used these techniques for more than 10 years and have found them to be proven methods for client retention.

 

Step 1: Make Your Patients Comfortable

Marketing your alternative practice is all about making your patients comfortable. This is where successful marketing always begins. For example, do you have patients who often arrive frazzled and apologetic because they’re frequently at least 10 minutes late? Do you make them wait even longer to teach them a lesson, walk into the exam room with a scowl on your face or greet them warmly and offer them a glass of water? If you chose the last option you’re in the minority! Most practitioners are in such a hurry to "solve health problems" that they neglect to really listen to their patients or treat them with compassion and understanding. This may be one of the fastest ways to lose a patient’s business.

After you have made your patients comfortable you will be in an excellent position to sell your services. Always tell your patients about special classes or any promotion you’re having for the month or, at the very least, sign them up for your free newsletter (more on this later). Also make sure to have pre-printed signup sheets ready for jotting down your patients’ addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for follow-ups.

 

Step 2: Create a Professional Phone Message that Sells Your Practice

Since first impressions do count, make sure you speak slowly and with courtesy anytime you talk on the phone. Also train your staff to answer the phones courteously and professionally. When you create a voicemail message for your practice, promoting yourself is more important than telling potential clients about your business hours. Inform clients about new products or special classes running throughout the month in your voicemail. If you have a Web site, include the full Web address or URL for your site on your phone message as well.

 

Step 3: Follow-Up with Your Patients

Follow-ups can be one of the most difficult aspects of marketing. Practitioners rarely do follow-ups with their patients. However, when implemented, follow-ups work extremely well. Within 24 hours of a patient visiting your practice you should call them personally. When you call your patients, briefly ask them how they feel or if they’re following any recommendations you may have given. Discuss any possible adjustments they can make to better follow your recommendations.

Remember, marketing is all about making patients feel comfortable. If you take the time out of your schedule to call your patients they will feel cared for and you will build a rapport with them. Even leaving a message for a patient who is not at home will impress upon both them and their families just how much you care. This can be an excellent way to spread "word of mouth" referrals about your practice.

Step 4: Create the Right Image For Your Practice

Everything from the logo of your practice to the colors in your office and the images on your business cards can make a strong first impression on potential clients. Because first impressions are so very important you want to ensure that you create the right image for your practice. If you’re starting out with a very low budget how can you afford to ensure you’re creating the right image for your practice? The first place to start is with your business cards. Potential clients may see your business cards long before they may visit your practice.

At http://www.vistaprint.com you can get 250 high quality business cards for free (shipping and handling is approximately $5). You should order two different kinds of business cards – one for patients with very muted, soft colors and one for professionals with bolder, or more conservative lines. Always give your patients two cards – one for themselves and another one to give to someone else.

 

Step 5: Offer Various Promotions

Everyone loves to save money, but should you offer coupons for various services or products you are offering? Whatever works for you and can generate referrals is an excellent idea. For example, on the back of my brochures I offer a $25 discount for any service costing more than $125, which covers a normal office call and gives patients a sense of saving money. When I want to generate immediate referrals I simply put an expiration date on the bottom of the brochure along with an advertised incentive such as a free product sample.

 

Step 6: Educate Your Patients

At a recent speech in Henderson, Nevada, Dr. Andrew Weil stressed how important it is educate your patients. When you offer weekly or even monthly classes, your patients will appreciate your efforts. You can promote your classes on your phone messages. If you can, make attendance at these classes mandatory. You could tell your patients that you are absolutely committed to their healing and that they are required to come to one educational class per month for 3 months. As an added incentive, you could offer them a discount on their next office visit (usually around $10) if they attend and offer additional incentives for them to bring friends or loved ones. When you hold your classes, always have some healthy snacks available to help keep your patients’ energy level high. This may also help keep them awake during an end of day class.

 

Step 7: Create Newsletters

Newsletters are an important point-of-contact between you and your clients. They are an excellent way to inform clients about new products, services and any other health news that may be relevant to them. Before desktop publishing became the norm, newsletters used to be very time consuming. I personally remember staying up until 3 a.m. trying to develop, print, stamp, address and get some of my older newsletters off in the mail. Even with my friends and family members helping out, preparing one newsletter could be a week long affair.

Today, with the help of Microsoft Publisher, a newsletter can be created in just a few short hours. Your own newsletter doesn’t even need to be very long. You could include a short health article, a product promotion or special discount and information on upcoming health classes. You can print hard copies of the newsletter within your office and e-mail copies of the newsletter to everyone on your subscriber list. Of course, this will save you a lot of money on postage as well.

 

Taking the First Steps

Marketing has to be an ongoing process in order for your business to thrive. Simply take any one of the seven steps above and implement it consistently to achieve the desired results. The more steps you follow, the greater your success may be. Within one or two weeks you will notice more patients coming into your office and these patients will bring their family and friends.

Judy Marie, ND, has owned two holistic health clinics in Wisconsin and California. With more than sixteen years in the natural health industry, she has used the seven proven marketing techniques to build successful practices. Individual marketing consultations are also available to all alternative health care practitioners by calling (702) 862-9346 or sending an e-mail to healing88@yahoo.com.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

 

Using Proteolytic Enzymes To
Combat Inflammation

By: Enzymers, Inc. Technical Services Department

 

Inflammation – a common problem faced daily by health care practitioners and their patients. Whether it manifests as a sprained ankle, arthritis, or a muscle tension headache, every day, healthcare practitioners provide treatment and patients deal with the pain.

However, inflammation can be much more far-reaching than these seemingly innocuous, short-term injuries, and any part of the body can be affected. In fact, researchers are more and more frequently linking inflammation to many debilitating conditions grouped under the umbrella of autoimmune disease, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Many serious and life-threatening illnesses, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and even cancer are being increasingly connected to an underlying problem with inflammation.

 

The Pharmaceutical Factor

The pharmaceutical industry has cashed in on the inflammation bandwagon – big time! Aspirin, one of the oldest pain relievers, has been used in its present form for over 100 years, but reports of willow bark, from which aspirin was originally derived, date back to the time of Hippocrates. The past several decades have seen the introduction of ibuprofen and naproxen and more recently the COX-2 inhibitors rofecoxib (trade name Vioxx) and celecoxib (trade name Celebrex).

The COX-2 inhibitor debacle turned out to be a classic example of pharmaceuticals gone bad, with both of these drugs possibly resulting in more deaths than they ever provided therapeutic benefit. While they may effectively control inflammation and pain, these drugs also come with the risk of heart attack or stroke. And while somewhat safer, aspirin, ibuprofen and other OTC pain relievers come with their own set of problems, such as heartburn, ulcers and even possible liver damage. Despite all this, NSAIDs are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States, and an estimated 14 to 20 million people take one each day.

 

Proteolytic Enzymes - A Natural Alternative

How does one solve the inflammation conundrum naturally and avoid the risks associated with pharmaceutical NSAIDs? Use of therapeutic proteolytic enzymes—such as bromelain from pineapple and papain from papaya—has been documented for over half a century, but even ancient civilizations knew of their healing powers and wrapped papaya leaves around wounds to promote healing. Numerous studies confirm the power of protease when used for everything from osteoarthritis to sinusitis.

The inflammatory process starts when the body is assaulted in some manner. This can be tissue damage due to injury, such as twisting an ankle or being cut, or invasion by a foreign assailant, such as bacteria, viruses or—according to some sources—undigested food seeping from the digestive tract into the bloodstream.

In most cases, the body responds instantly with a full frontal attack. A host of chemical compounds known as inflammatory mediators regulate the entire process. These include histamine, prostaglandins, kinins, leukotrienes and a group of plasma proteins making up the complement system. Their function is to choreograph the vascular and cellular effects of inflammation.

Blood flow to the injured area increases, while blood flow away shuts down. Blood vessels become more permeable, fluid seeps into the tissues, and the capillaries become engorged.