A newly published study in the British Medical Journal showed that chronic use of oral and/or inhaled glucocorticoids affected the white and gray matter of the brain.
Viewing entries in
Immune System
No one likes to get sick. And unfortunately, this year that feeling is amplified by 1000%! I wanted to share some naturopathic medical suggestions to maintain your health this fall/winter season. There are some simple things you can do and some extra supplements you could take. Here we go!
REMEMBER, LET FOOD BE YOUR MEDICINE!
1. Bring on the ginger!
One of my favorite foods for maintaining wellness during winter is ginger. This warming food has a variety of health benefits for cold winter months. Ginger promotes circulation to help keep the body warm and help your fingers and toes remain toasty. In addition, ginger has wonderful antimicrobial and anti-cough effects!
To incorporate ginger into your diet, try to add it to your stir-frys and soups. To make fresh ginger tea, simply grate a 1-2 inch piece of ginger root and boil in 1.5 cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. Because ginger is a root, it needs to be boiled to release its medicinal components. Ginger is also available as a standardized extract.
2. Drink your fluids!
With the dryer air inside and outside, winter makes it particularly challenging to stay hydrated. Fluid is especially important in maintaining a healthy immune system. If drinking water isn’t appealing, get your favorite herbal tea to drink or make your dinners count with using yummy bone or vegetable broths. Be sure to bring a travel mug of water or tea with you everywhere you go to encourage yourself to get plenty of added fluids!
3. Skip the sweets!
This includes the sweet treats and desserts but also refined grain products like white flour that turns quickly into sugar. Studies have shown that refined sugars can suppress your immune system for hours after ingesting,
4. Eat your garlic and onions!
Garlic and onions contain antimicrobial compounds that play an important role in keeping your immune system healthy. In addition, eating the can keep the vampires away :-).
5. Eat your mushrooms!
Another food I sneak in many dishes for lunch or dinner (or even breakfast!) to maintain my family’s health is mushrooms. The more variety the better! The edible mushrooms have immune boosting properties built right in. They have been shown to elevate B and T lymphocytes which are own infection fighting cells. In addition, they are packed with important minerals, antioxidants, and minerals.
LIFESTYLE STRATEGIES TO REMAIN HEALTHY
1. Get adequate sleep!
We ALL know sleep restores and heals the body. As many of you know, my mantra is 7-9 hours per night the majority of the week. If this is something you are not achieving, you should reach out to find ways to optimize your sleep. It’s vital for your health. Without adequate sleep, optimal immune function is next to impossible!
2. SWEAT!
Exercise is so important for your health, and in particular immune health. It’s vital to get 30-40 minutes of exercise 4 days per week. Yes! sweating is important for detoxifying your body but avoid overexertion when you are feeling run down this can actually lower your immune defenses.
SUPPLEMENTS TO TAKE FOR IMMUNITY
This is a HUGE topic and I will only list my top 4 favorites. If you have autoimmune or immunocompromised disease’s I would advise you to seek out a naturopathic doctor who can better tailor a supplement plan for you.
1. Vitamin D3
Optimal Vitamin D status is critical for health immunity and often times can’t be achieved without supplementation during the winter months. It is best to have your 25 OH Vitamin D level check for accurate dosing. Blood levels should be above 30ng/dl; however, optimal levels are closer to 50 ng/dl. The majority of my patients require 4000-5000 ID per day dosing in the winter to reach that optimal number.
A recent study published in Epidemiology and Infection showed that people with Vitamin D deficiency were 11 times more likely to get a cold or the flu, while supplementing with vitamin D can reduce colds and flu by 42%.
2. Astragalus
I love astragalus. It’s an herb that has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is an adaptogen which mean that it helps protect the body against a variety of stressors, whether it’s physical, mental or emotional. It contains antioxidants, and has antimicrobial properties which protect and support the body’s immune system, for preventing colds and upper respiratory infections. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure, treat diabetes, and protect the liver. What more could you ask for in a herb :-)!
I typically dose Astragalus root extract at 300mg 2x/day for prevention, and increase the dose to 600 mg 2x/day at first sign of illness.
3. Zinc picolinate
Zinc can be amazing for preventing cold or flu symptoms from worsening. I don’t suggest patients to take this supplement daily but instead to take it at the first sign of symptoms. Studies have shown that zinc taken within the first 24 hours of symptoms can shorten the duration of the cold by 33% if taken in dosages >75mg/day (for adults). I wouldn’t suggest long term use of zinc at these high dosages since it can block other minerals from being absorbed. I would also suggest it to be taken with food since it can cause nausea.
4. Elderberry
Consuming elderberry for cold and flu prevention is hardly a new concept, but there is so much research out their proving it to be effective it’s hard not to use this herb during fall and winter season for prevention and treatment. Research has also shown that its anti-viral properties are comparable to Tamiflu (without the awful side effects). It’s also super yummy to taste making it easy to give to kids too! I usually suggest dosing 1-5 mL daily for prevention and then double to triple the dose at the first sign of symptoms.
Here’s to a healthy fall and winter season this year!
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2870528/?tool=pmcentrez
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23775705/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19682714/
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believes that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms. With her scientific background, Dr Fey uses science based natural approaches to treating disease.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center for Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Dr Fey is currently offering telemedicine for patients all across the US. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
Summer is the time for picnics, swimming, and vacation-fun! However, the fun doesn’t come without a price. It’s also the time when the insects are swarming, the sun is sweltering, and the ivy is growing. If you have children, you know that every summer is an adventure filled with bites, scratches, and bumps for them and for you. Even without children, our summer activities often take us outside and into new surroundings. We tend to be more adventurous in the summer and that can lead to a few stiff muscles, a few scratches, and/ or bites in which we normally wouldn't encounter.
Here are some natural remedies to help prepare for the hot days of summer. The remedies listed below can reduce the symptoms of many minor injuries until medical care is found or until it heals on its own. Use your judgment as to the severity of the problem, but if it's minor, these remedies may be helpful. If symptoms persist, seek professional medical advice immediately. Minor symptoms can often be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
FOR BUMPS AND BRUISES
ARNICA: Arnica is available in both internal and external preparations, and is safe to use for all ages. Useful for reducing swelling and bruising. Look for Arnica gel or cream, as well as the oral preparation of Arnica 12c or 30c potency. Directions: Apply gel/cream every 2-4 hours as needed, do not apply to broken skin. Arnica 12c/30c should be given immediately after the trauma and then 3 times per day for a few days.
COMPRESSES: Apply a cold compress immediately after the trauma for 20 minutes. This will help reduce the amount of bruising. You may also add witch hazel, comfrey, or arnica (pour ½ tsp from a tincture into a pint of cold water). Repeat 2 to 3 times. External use only.
FOR SUNBURNS
COMPRESSES: As soon as you notice a sunburn, cool the affected area by applying a cold towel compress, apply for 20 minutes. You can also apply fresh cucumber juice to the area by mashing cucumber in a bag or a bowl and then applying it.
ALOE VERA: Apply fresh aloe gel from a plant or a prepared gel or juice to unbroken skin. The plant will soothe the pain and burning. Reapply as needed.
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES: Apis, cantharis, arnica, or urtica urens are possible remedies used in a 12c or 30c potency. Check a homeopathic guide to see which remedy is appropriate for your symptoms.
HYPERICUM (St. John’s wort): Apply oil or salve to the area a few hours after the burn occurs.
FOR SCRAPES AND SUPERFICIAL WOUNDS
If the wound is gaping and does not appear to be minor, then seek medical attention immediately.
ANTISEPTIC WASH: If bleeding, apply pressure to the area for a few minutes to stop the bleeding. Clean the area well with an antiseptic wash solution using calendula, goldenseal, or witch hazel (1/2 tsp of tincture in a pint of water).
SALVES OR CREAMS: Apply cream or salve made from comfrey, calendula, yarrow or tea tree and cover with a bandage. Use the antiseptic wash once a day to prevent infection.
HOMEOPATHY: Use Arnica as described in the above burns and bruises section.
FOR INSECT BITES AND STINGS
POULTICE: Apply plantain leaves, raw potato slices or raw carrots directly on the bite or with a cheese-cloth for 20 minutes. It will draw out the poison and relieve itching.
COMPRESSES: Apply a compress of distilled witch hazel with a few drops of lavender oil. If you don’t have witch hazel solution on hand then use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar diluted in water.
NATURAL BUG REPELLENT: Using lavender, citronella, eucalyptus and pennyroyal essential oils, mix 15 drops of each with one ounce of almond or olive oil. Use on clothing to avoid repeated skin contact.
HOMEOPATHY: Apis, potency 12c or 30c within 1 hour of bite or sting.
FOR SPLINTERS
BANANAS: Enzymes in banana peels create a drawing action that pulls splinters out of your skin. To use, apply a ripe banana peel (skin side up, pulp side down) to the affected area. Attach using surgical tape before you go to bed and leave it on over night.
SILICEA: Take homeopathic silicea, potency 12c or 30c, three times per day for three days. Specific for extruding foreign material from wounds.
FOR POISON IVY
If you think you have come in contact with poison oak or ivy, immediately wash your clothes and skin with cold, soapy water.
OATMEAL: Make a pot of oatmeal and add to a cool bath and soak for 20- 30 minutes. You may also make a paste from oatmeal and apply it directly to the affected areas. Oatmeal soothes irritated skin and also assists in drawing out the oily exudate.
HOMEOPATHY: Rhus toxicodendron, anacardium, graphites, and sulphur are possible remedies used in a 12c or 30c potency. Check a homeopathic guide to see which remedy is appropriate for your symptoms.
CLAY POULTICE: Use bentonite clay mixed with water and add a few drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil. Apply to the affected areas. Clay will help draw out the irritating oils and soothe the itching.
Enjoy your summer!!!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believes that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms. With her scientific background, Dr Fey uses science based natural approaches to treating disease.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center for Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Dr Fey is currently offering telemedicine for patients all across the US. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
Spring has sprung! The long awaited change of winter into spring is among us bringing the season of rebirth filled with flowers, greenery, and warmer weather. For many folks, the changing of the season brings more than just sunshine—it signals the onset of seasonal allergies.
Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, can appear as early as February and last throughout the summer or throughout the year. Physiologically, exposure to an allergen, such as pollen, elicits a massive release of IgE antibodies by white blood cells signaling mast cells. These cells are mostly located in the lungs and upper respiratory tract, the lining of the stomach, and the skin. When mast cells are stimulated, they release chemicals including histamine and leukotrienes which produce the allergy symptoms.
While many over-the-counter remedies promise symptomatic relief, naturopathic doctors believe that addressing the causes of allergies, treating the whole person, and focusing on balancing the immune system leads to substantial long-term health benefits.
Avoiding the allergen - The first step in the natural approach to allergies is to reduce contact with the allergen. Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dander, and dust mites are often too difficult to avoid, but measures can be taken to reduce exposure. For example, reducing surfaces where allergens collect like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, or encasing your mattress in allergen-proof plastic. Installing an air purifier in your home is another approach to reducing your exposure
Quercetin - This supplement is believed to work by stabilizing cell membranes, reducing the release of histamine, so the cells are less reactive to allergens. Adding the supplemental enzyme bromelain increases the amount of quercetin absorbed in the digestive tract.
Butterbur - Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) contains the active ingredient petasin, which exhibits antileukotriene and antihistamine activity. Research has shown butterbur to be as effective as some conventional treatments without the side effects.
Nettle Leaf - Nettle leaf has a long history of traditional use for allergies. An initial scientific study with an extract of the herb nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) was made during the peak season for allergic rhinitis. The extract gave a slight reduction in symptoms of hayfever within just 7 days.
Vitamin C – By stabilizing mast cell membranes, Vitamin C prevents the secretion of histamine and therefore decreases allergies. Studies have shown that doses of 2 grams daily increase the ability of white blood cells to respond to an infection and lower blood histamine levels if taken over time.
Food Intolerance - Some researchers suggest that people who react to pollens may also have a hypersensitivity to certain foods. For example, people allergic to grass pollens also reacted to tomatoes, peanuts, wheat, carrot, peach, eggs, and pork. Elimination diets have been successful at finding out which foods aggravate symptoms of allergic rhinitis in an individual. These diets involve the removal of suspected foods for at least two weeks followed by systematic re-introduction of the foods in order to identify what specifically causes the aggravation.
Nasal Lavage – This classic hydrotherapy technique is used in cases of chronic infections and/or irritations in the nose and sinuses. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the recurrent irritant so that the body can be given a chance to heal itself. For acute problems, perform the nasal lavage up to four times per day until resolved. For chronic problems, use one or more times daily, continuing for several months. If your condition continues to worsen after a week of treatment, see your doctor.
Allergies affect more than twenty percent of the US population. Natural therapies provide an alternative to medications that can sometimes have unpleasant side effects. Seek out a naturopathic physician today to develop an individualized plan that works for you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believes that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms. With her scientific background, Dr Fey uses science based natural approaches to treating disease.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center for Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Dr. Fey is currently offering telemedicine for patients all across the US. To contact the office, call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
I have been spending a lot of time in the kitchen trying out new recipes. Here are two of my most recent recipe finds that were really yummy (they were even Fey children approved ;-)). The last recipe, gluten & dairy free banana bread, isn’t a new recipe find but one I’ve been making for years and one that my family really loves.
The best approach to any infection, viral or bacterial, is to keep our immune systems strong all year long so we have less of a chance of becoming infected. A great way to do that is to eat more healthy food! Eating real whole food is the best investment for your health!
“LET FOOD BE THY MEDICINE, MEDICINE BE THY FOOD” -Hippocrates
Bon appétit!
GINGER SWEET POTATO COCONUT MILK STEW WITH LENTILS & KALE
From: https://thefirstmess.com/2020/02/19/sweet-potato-coconut-milk-stew/
INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 medium yellow onion, small dice
½ – 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes (I used Diaspora Co’s ground Guntur Sannam Chilli)
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
1 ½ lbs (690 grams or 2 medium) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
½ cup brown lentils, picked over
4 cups vegetable stock
13.5 oz (400 ml) can full fat coconut milk
1 small bunch of kale, stems removed & leaves chopped (about 4 cups chopped & lightly packed kale)
GARNISH:
chopped cilantro
extra chili flakes
lime wedges
Nigella seeds (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add the coconut oil to the pot and let it melt. Add the onions to the pot and stir. Saute the onions, stirring occasionally, until translucent and quite soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chili flakes, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Saute spices until very fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ginger and garlic to the pot and cook for another minute. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the sweet potatoes to the pot and stir to coat in the spices. Add the lentils to the pot and stir once more. Season everything liberally with salt and pepper. Add the vegetable stock and stir, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. Place the lid on top of the pot and bring to a boil.
Once the stew is boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and set the lid slightly askew on top of the pot so that there’s a couple inches available for steam to escape. Simmer until the sweet potatoes are almost falling apart and the lentils are tender, about 30 minutes. The liquid should also be reduced by almost a third.
Add the coconut milk and kale to the pot and stir. Place the lid on top and continue to simmer the stew until the kale is wilted and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Season the sweet potato and coconut milk stew again with salt and pepper. Bring the stew back up to a strong simmer and check for seasoning. Adjust with more salt, pepper, chili etc. if necessary.
Serve the sweet potato and coconut milk stew hot with chopped cilantro, extra chili flakes, lime wedges, and Nigella seeds (if using).
ASIAN-INSPIRED CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
From: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/252321/asian-inspired-chicken-soup/
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 ounce (about 1/2 cup) dried shiitake or mixed dried mushrooms
3 cups boiling water
1 tablespoon peanut oil or canola oil
2 cups diced onion
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
6 1/8-inch-thick slices peeled fresh ginger
6 cups chicken broth
¼ cup soy sauce
1 2-to-3-inch cinnamon stick
1 whole star anise
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 bulb fennel, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
8 scallions, whites cut into 2-inch pieces and greens chopped, divided
1 pound bok choy, preferably baby bok choy, white stems sliced lengthwise and greens chopped, divided
2 cups (4 ounces) mung bean sprouts
½ cup chopped cilantro
2 teaspoons sesame oil
Lime wedges for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
Place mushrooms in a heatproof measuring cup and cover with boiling water. Soak for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours. Remove the mushrooms from the water, remove and discard stems (if any) and cut into 1/8-inch slices; set aside. Strain the soaking liquid and reserve.
Heat oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes. Pour in the reserved mushroom liquid, broth, soy sauce, cinnamon stick, star anise and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and stir in chicken. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in fennel, scallion whites and the reserved mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes. Add bok choy stems, return to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes more. Stir in bok choy greens and bean sprouts. Cook until the greens are just wilted, about 2 minutes more.
Discard the cinnamon stick and star anise. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with scallion greens, cilantro and a 1/4-teaspoon drizzle of sesame oil. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.
Note: Mung bean sprouts (germinated mung beans), often simply labeled “bean sprouts,” are white with a light yellow tip and are thicker than more common alfalfa sprouts. People with celiac disease or gluten-sensitivity should use soy sauces that are labeled "gluten-free," as soy sauce may contain wheat or other gluten-containing sweeteners and flavors.
BANANA BREAD (gluten and dairy free)
From: the cookbook Against All Grain by Danielle Walker
INGREDIENTS:
2T coconut oil. melted
4 Eggs, large
3T maple syrup
1tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2tsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup almond flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 cup coconut milk
3 large ripe bananas
Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup dairy free chocolate chips, walnuts, dried cranberries or raisins
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350F
Grease the sides of and bottom of 81/2 by 41/2 inch loaf pan, then place a piece of parchment paper at the bottom.
Place 2 T coconut oil, eggs, honey, vanilla, and vinegar in a bowl beat on high with a mixer or food processor for 30 seconds.
Combine the coconut flour, almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt, then add them to the wet ingredients, beating on high until combined.
Place the coconut milk and bananas in a separate bowl and mash until the mixture resembles baby food.
Add the banana mixture to the batter and beat on medium until thoroughly combined.
Mix in optional add-ins, if desired.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Remove loaf and cool completely on a wire rack.
Yes, there’s a pandemic going on around the world and yet it’s frightening to hear about. I would like to put it into perspective and discuss the research behind using herbal medicine for fighting coronaviruses.
I would like to remind you that the CDC estimates that the influenza virus (aka the flu) has resulted in between 9 million – 45 million illnesses, between 140,000 – 810,000 hospitalizations and between 12,000 – 61,000 deaths every year since 2010 in the US alone. And this is a virus we have a vaccine for!
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can infect many different animal species, including camels, cattle, and bats. A new strain of coronavirus has been identified as the cause of the outbreak of respiratory illness in people first detected in Wuhan, China. On February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization named the disease COVID-19. (Formerly, it was referred to as 2019-nCoV.) What makes this virus unique is that rarely do animal coronaviruses jump species and infect people. Past coronaviruses with this similar pattern are the MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV which some of you may remember from the outbreak in 2002-2003.
There is a lot of media hype about alternative treatments not being effective to treat or prevent the coronavirus, and yet its true the new strain of coronavirus, COVID-19, has not been thoroughly researched regarding herbal therapies. There are however many studies showing the medicinal effects of herbs against other coronaviruses. Let’s talk about those.
In November 2019, a study published in the journal Virus Research showed that elderberry (Sambucas nigra) extract significantly inhibited the replication of the human coronavirus strain NL63 (HCoV-NL63). Elderberry specifically blocked the coronavirus attachment and therefore was concluded to have strong antiviral potential against this strain of coronavirus.
In January 2014, another study showed that elderberry (Sambucas nigra) extract can inhibit coronavirus when taken at the early stages of the infection unlike extracts of Rhodiola rosea or Nigella sativa.
In October 2011, a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine showed that herbal extracts of scythian lamb (Cibotium barometz), gentian root (Gentiana scabra), chinese or wild yam (Dioscorea batatas), wild senna (Cassia tora), and chinese mistletoe (Taxillus chinensis) inhibited the replication of the virulent severe acute respiratory syndrome associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV).
Lastly, a study published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine in February 2020 indicated that herbal medical treatments classically used for treating viral respiratory infections might contain direct anti-2019-nCoV (aka COVID-19) compounds. Thirteen herbal compounds were found to have antiviral effects specifically against the COVID-19 strain, and 125 herbs were found to contain 2 or more of these 13 compounds. Proving that natural plant compounds may be powerful tools in fighting against these virulent virus strains and more research needs to be done.
It is unfortunate that the media is quick to disregard these plant extracts as potentially effective strategies in helping to bring this pandemic under control. As an alternative medicine practitioner, I wish there were more research studies and articles published to back up the clinical success stories I see daily using naturopathic therapies like herbal medicine. Unfortunately, there is not much funding for these types of research studies.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31560964
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24433341
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24716104
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32113846
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believes that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms. With her scientific background, Dr Fey uses science based natural approaches to treating disease.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center for Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
Hydrotherapy or “water cure" has been used for centuries to promote healing. It's non invasive and a great technique to use on any family members when they are feeling ill.
Plant-derived dietary lectins have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease. Studies show that the plant lectins act as a “danger signal” that can activate inflammatory mediators.
So, what are plant lectins?
Lectins are naturally occurring proteins found in most plants. Some foods that contain higher amounts of lectins include beans, peanuts, lentils, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, fruits, and wheat and other grains. Clinically, I hear a lot, “if I eat cooked tomatoes not raw I can tolerate them more”. This is likely because cooking the vegetables can breakdown the lectin protein making them less inflammatory to the body.
Research
Dr. Steven Gundry, MD has done a lot of research on how plant lectins affect disease. He found that out of 102 patients that he studied with autoimmune diseases, 95 of them went into complete remission after removing lectins from their diet after 9 months. The other 7 patients all had reduced inflammatory markers in their blood, but they were not in complete remission. And, 80 of the 102 patients were weaned from all immunosuppressive and/or biologic medications without rebound. He did also find most of his patients were low in vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, so supplementation along with probiotics were utilized as well during the 9 months.
I don’t find that once you are diagnosed with an autoimmune disease it has to be a lifetime problem. I find removing plant lectins from the diet as one of the useful tools in bringing patients with autoimmune diseases back to the state of balance and optimal health they deserve.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087670
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/circ.137.suppl_1.p238
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped thousands of women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believe that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center For Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
I love Pho! I first experienced it while at Naturopathic Medical School in Portland OR. On cold rainy days, I would frequent my favorite pho restaurant near Portland State University. Even today, 15 years later, it’s a favorite of mine to prepare for my family during the winter months.
My favorite recipe is below. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does when its chilly outside.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons coriander seeds (whole)
1 cinnamon stick (roughly broken)
4 whole star anise
4 whole cloves
1 quart beef broth
1 piece ginger (3-inch size, roughly chopped)
1 bunch scallions (or green onions reserve the green parts for garnishing the soup, white parts only)
1 tablespoon fish sauce
2 teaspoons brown sugar
5 slices jalapeno pepper (fresh, depending on your spice tolerance)
1 handful rice noodles (soaked or cooked according to package directions)
1/4 pound flank steak (sliced paper thin)
1 bean sprouts (generous handful)
scallions (sliced, or green onions to taste green parts only)
1 sprig fresh basil
1 sprig fresh cilantro
3 lime wedges
sriracha
hoisin sauce
Instructions
Place a heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium low heat. Add all of the spices and stir them until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Carefully add the beef broth; it will sputter quite a bit. Turn the heat to high and add the remaining broth ingredients. When it reaches a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Strain the broth through colander into another sauce pot or soup pot so all the added spices are removed and all that remains is the broth. Keep it at a simmer while you assemble your bowls and garnishes.
To assemble and garnish each bowl of pho: Lay desired amount of jalapeno slices in the bottom of each bowl (optional of course). Top with a generous amount of rice noodles. Drape the beef evenly over the noodles and pour the boiling broth over top. Give a quick stir to help cook the beef, then pile on bean sprouts, sliced scallions (green onions), basil, and cilantro. Squeeze a couple of lime wedges and let them rest in the broth to lend to the flavor. Serve with sriracha and/or hoisin sauce. It's best to serve this the traditional way: with chopsticks AND a soup spoon. Slurping is encouraged!
Feel free to have fun with it. You can also make it strictly vegan without the beef if you desire. I like to add in vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, carrots, and green onions. Each member of my family designs their own bowl and then adds the broth. This works nicely especially for picky kids cause then they get to decide what they put into their soup.
Bon appetit!
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped thousands of women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believe that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center For Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
Some simple home remedies for you and your family during the season of sore throats! Be well!
A.H.C.C. stands for Active Hexose Correlated Compound. It is produced in the mycelia of the shiitake mushroom. It was originally designed to decrease blood pressure but through research done in Japan it was found to be extremely beneficial in cancer prevention. Currently, it is being used as an alternative cancer therapy in hundreds of cancer clinics throughout Asia.
So, what’s so special about this compound making it so popular in Japan? AHCC stimulates your immune system by activating your white blood cells, particularly natural killer cells and macrophages, which directly attack abnormal cells, virus-infected cells, or bacterial pathogens that enter your body. AHCC was also shown to improve the immune system’s ability to recognize cancer tumors.
Many scientists in the US are doing research on this exciting compound as well. Research done at Yale University indicated that AHCC helped to maintain the strength of the immune system in men as they aged. Therefore, preventing the onset of numerous conditions affecting the elderly, today.
AHCC is used widely in Japan for improving quality of life for cancer patient’s. Used in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiation, researchers found anemia prevention, hair loss prevention, and improvement in mood with those patients using AHCC. In addition, when AHCC was used in post-operative liver cancer patients, the rate of recurrence of malignant tumors was significantly lower (34% versus 66%) and patient survival was significantly higher in the AHCC group (80% vs. 52%).
AHCC is used as an adjunctive therapy for cancer, hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, and other disorders categorized as immunodeficiency. As well as, prophylactically for people who are susceptible to colds, flus, and other airborne infectious diseases. Making it an important tool to be stored in your natural medicine tool box.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31311148
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Yin+Z%2C+et+al.+Hum+Immunol.+2010+Dec%3B71(12)%3A1187-90.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29111786
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped thousands of women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believe that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center For Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Her personal website is www.doctorfey.com. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.
As cold and flu season is among us, many of us stock up on our favorite immune boosting herb, Echinacea. However, many people don’t realize that boosting the immune system too much may cause trouble, especially for anyone with an already diagnosed autoimmune disease.
How does Echinacea work?
The active constituents of Echinacea stimulate the immune response by interacting with various cells of the immune system. Macrophages, natural killer cells, and neutrophils have all been shown to be activated with the use of Echinacea.
So what’s the problem?
Autoimmune diseases are diseases where the immune system is overstimulated and begins attacking itself. For many autoimmune diseases, medications are used to suppress the immune cells that Echinacea has been shown to stimulate. Yikes!
Case Study
A 55-year-old male who was diagnosed as having pemphigus vulgaris, an autoimmune disorder that involves blistering and erosion of the skin and mucous membranes. His disease was gradually controlled with an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medication. The patient achieved complete clearance of lesions and continued to be clear of lesions 1 year after the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medications were discontinued.
1.5 years into his remission, he developed an upper respiratory tract infection and began taking an Echinacea supplement daily. He had never before taken an herbal supplement. He developed blisters on his trunk, head, and oral mucosa within 1 week of starting the supplement. He had not had oral mucosal lesions since onset of the disease. After discontinuing the use of the Echinacea supplement, partial disease control, but never complete remission, was achieved with the use of the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medications again.
What else can I do when I am sick?
Clinically, I am very cautious with using herbal supplements with already diagnosed autoimmune patients or those patients that have a strong family history of autoimmune diseases. There are many lifestyle things to do instead like, watching your diet and avoiding certain inflammatory foods at the first sign of illness. As well as, using vitamins and minerals, like vitamin D, C, and zinc to help the immune system during its battle against cold and flu invaders.
Just because its “natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe! Supplements are sold over the counter with no regulations. This makes them appear to all be safe and to take regardless of your health conditions and the medications you are taking. Seeking out a Naturopathic Doctor who has been medically trained with the expert knowledge in the use of herbs and vitamin supplements for diseases and interactions with medications you are currently taking is recommended.
Article
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/480602
About the author
Since 2005, Dr Fey has helped thousands of women, men, and children find real solutions to their health concerns. She truly believe that giving the proper care and nutrients your body has an amazing ability to heal. She is committed to finding the root cause of illness by utilizing a whole body approach not just focusing solely on presenting symptoms.
Dr. Amanda Fey is the owner and practicing Naturopathic Doctor at Complementary Medicine & Healing Arts, the Southern Tiers Center For Natural Healthcare located in the Binghamton NY area. The office website is www.naturallywell.us. Her personal website is www.doctorfey.com. To contact the office call 607-729-0591 or email cmhahealth@gmail.com.