FEBRUARY 2014 www.yhconnection.com
VENTURA COUNTY
CONEJO VALLEY
MALIBU
WEST SAN FERNANDO VALLEY
HEART HEALTH
DR. SABIRA SAIFUDDIN OF WESTLAKE WELLNESS CENTER GO RED FOR WOMEN • ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AND BLOOD THINNERS INFLAMMATION AND CAD • PRINZMETAL’S ANGINA • INTERNAL CLEANSING & NUTRITION • FOODS FOR SEXUAL HEALTH • DIVINE LOVE FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM |1
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SINUS INSTITUTE Alen Cohen M.D., F.A.C.S.
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
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Contents
HEART HEALTH FEBRUARY 2014
DEPTARTMENTS
16/
06/ PUBLISHER’S LETTER
It’s a Heartfelt Thing
09/ FYI
Go Red For Women: Celebrating 10 Years of Saving and Changing Lives
28/ NATURAL APPROACH
Cholesterol is not the Problem Causing Heart Disease. It’s Inflammation.
by Dr. Sharon Norling
28/
24/
14/
32/ COMPASSIONATE EATING
Plant-Based Passion: Foods for Sexual Health
by Bianca Rose Martinez
38/ SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
Divine Love
by Denise Schriedel
44/ BEYOND GREEN LIVING
Internal Cleansing and Nutrition— and a Life Lesson to Internalize
by Jan Tucker, MBA
10/ CONNECTION Family Psychiatry Provides Cutting-edge Psychiatric Care
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by Alicia Doyle
CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
FEATURES 14/ SPECIAL HEALTH BULLETIN Prinzmetal’s Angina/
Coronary Vasospasm by Dr. Alon Steinberg
16/ HEALTH VIEW 1
The Heart of Cacao
No Scar Bunion Surgery by Dr. Alireza Khosroabadi
34/ MIND & SPIRIT
Porn—Is it a Problem for You and Your Man? by Wayne M. Levine
by Merissa Marcuccella
20/ HEALTH VIEW 2
24/ HEALTH VIEW 3
Atrial Fibrillation and the Risk of Stroke by Dr. Ishu Rao
40/ BEAUTY
The New Face of Cosmetic Medicine – Voluma
by Dr. Sarmela Sunder
FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
IT’S A HEARTFELT THING
IT’S A HEARTFELT THING Much attention is focused on cancer, including the ongoing research and the various walks for awareness. The good news is that cancer deaths are down 20 percent. All of this is wonderful and much needed, but it tends to cloud the fact that the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. is heart disease.
ANN K. CASTLE FOUNDER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & PUBLISHER
The rate of women having heart attacks far outnumbers the rate of women being diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), heart disease kills ten times more women than breast cancer each year. This is due to the fact that a woman’s heart attack symptoms are different from a man’s. Women tend to ignore the signs and feel compelled to self-diagnose and power through the day taking care of family first. Many times she finds herself in an emergency and too late to react. I have been and always will be a strong supporter of both the American Cancer Society and the AHA, as both of these diseases have affected my family traumatically. Both organizations tirelessly dedicate themselves to bringing awareness for a healthier country. Also, my ongoing commitment to the communities I serve with this publication mean so much to me. In this issue we provide vital information on some rarely discussed health issues: Prinzmetal’s Angina, CAD (coronary artery disease) and the correlation between atrial fibrillation and blood thinners. We explore the health connection between cacao and your heart, and introduce a heart-healthy recipe for a romantic evening. You will also be connected with Dr. Sabira Saifuddin of Westlake Wellness and much more! Remember, we have a responsibility to take care of one another. If you see someone showing signs of a heart attack or stroke do not hesitate— call 911. Minutes count when dealing with heart disease. With Peace, Love, Blessings and Gratitude,
Ann
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
OUR ENVIRONMENT Mother Nature is in need of attention—look for March’s Healthy Environment issue in stands everywhere and online at yhconnection.com beginning on March 1!
PILATES FOR BUFF BONES
®
JOE & CLARA INVITES Readers of CTW to Take One Free Class in February Pilates for Buff Bones® is a medically endorsed workout that combines Pilates with bone-strengthening and balance techniques to optimize the health and safety of your bones. It is now available in 15 countries around the world and JOE & CLARA in Westlake Village is excited to bring this life changing program to the Conejo Valley. Joe & Clara’s Athletic Director, Romina Laygo, was interested in adding a program specific to bone health and was pleasantly surprised to learn that there was a specialist right next door.
The workout follows a research-supported design of specifically sequenced exercises, making it an entire system of bone and joint health. Classes are open to the public and include all mats and equipment. Pilates for Buff Bones® offers people a realistic and safe way to take charge of their diagnosis, or help take steps earlier in life to prevent osteoporosis. It also offers a bridge to doing movements and a daily practice that will improve one’s overall fitness level to improve his/her condition beyond taking medication.
Taught by Aggie Winston, a certified Pilates for Buff Bones® Instructor, this one hour mat-based exercise program is performed in different positions including standing upright for weight-bearing and balance training.
This program was developed by 37 year old Rebekah Rotstein, who created Pilates for Buff Bones® after she was diagnosed with osteoporosis when she was 28 years old.
“Pilates for Buff Bones® is a full body toning workout,” explained Aggie, adding that it’s safe for those with osteopenia or osteoporosis, or anyone concerned about bone density.
“Pilates for Buff Bones® has helped me feel stronger and more capable and the feedback I get from people everywhere is the same,” said Rebekah, who lives in New York City.
“But this is not just a class for older people. It is a truly revolutionary, challenging, fun and adaptable class for all ages and levels, including beginning to advanced participants.” said Aggie, who has been teaching Pilates for more than a decade and is also a PMA® Certified Pilates Teacher.
“This workout gives people the opportunity to feel empowered again and recognize that they can in fact move, use their bodies and are not weak physically nor emotionally,” she said. “And after just a few classes they see and feel the results of improved strength and balance which encourages them to continue.”
To sign up for the free class visit joeandclara.com to make a reservation. For more information contact Aggie Winston at 805-768-4711 or info@bodysolveit.com. ADVERTORIAL
FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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FOUNDER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, PUBLISHER
ANN K. CASTLE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR JODY L. LEVITAN COPY EDITING KRISTI KELLOGG; JAN TUCKER, MBA ACCOUNTING DONNA BRYANT CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS DIANA GARNARD CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ALICIA DOYLE ALIREZA KHOSROABADI, DPM WAYNE M. LEVINE, MA BIANCA ROSE MARTINEZ MERISSA MARCUCCELLA SHARON NORLING, MD, MBA ISHU V, RAO, MD DENISE SCHRIEDEL ALON STEINBERG, MD, FACC SARMELA SUNDER, MD JAN TUCKER, MBA COVERAGE AREA INCLUDES MONTHLY TO VENTURA COUNTY, WEST SAN FERNANDO VALLEY, MALIBU AND THE CONEJO VALLEY; AGOURA HILLS, CALABASAS, CAMARILO, MOORPARK, NEWBURY PARK, NORTHRIDGE, OAK PARK, OXNARD, SIMI VALLEY, THOUSAND OAKS, VENTURA, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, WEST HILLS, WOODLAND HILLS
FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT MARIAN GREEN marian@connecttowellbeing.com 818.943.0751
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FOR ALL OTHER INQUIRIES CONTACT ANN K. CASTLE ann@connecttowellbeing.com or 805.341.2972
ADVISORY BOARD
ANDREA DOCTOR, LCSW, DCSW Home Health Administrator for Buena Vista Palliative Care and Home Health KATIE GREELEY, DC United Family Chiropractic Specializing in Pediatric Chiropractic Care STEVEN GREENMAN, DDS Specializing in Advanced Cosmetic, Implant & Sedation Dentistry, Snoring & Sleep Apnea HILDA MALDONADO, MD Specializing in Functional Medicine, Anti-Aging Medicine & Hormone Therapy SHARON NORLING, MD Board Certified OB/GYN, Holistic/Integrative Medicine, Medical Acupuncture, Nutrition & Functional Medicine DENISE NOYER-EREZ, LAC, FABORM Licensed Acupuncturist Specializing in Women’s Health ALON STEINBERG, MD, FACC Board Certified Cardiologist JAN TUCKER, MBA Founder of Whitelotusliving.com Specializing in green living, environmental awareness & spiritual yoga DAVID VILLARREAL, DDS Centers for Healing Specializing in Holistic Dentistry
WWW.YHCONNECTION.COM
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31139 Via Colinas, St. 303 Westlake Village | 91362 (In the shopping center with the green awnings, across from the Four Seasons Hotel.)
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the publishers or management of YHC Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Publication of the name or photo of any person or organization in YHC Magazine should not be construed as an indication of that person’s expressed opinion. Advertisers and their agencies assume responsibility and liability for the content of their advertisement in YHC Magazine. Photographers whose work is published in any advertising or editorial content within YHC Magazine agree to indemnify and save harmless the publishers from all liability, loss and expense due to a photographer’s failure to gain a model release. YHC Magazine is not responsible for loss of or damage to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork, or any other unsolicited material. Unsolicited material will not be returned. YHC Magazine’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. YHC Magazine does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein.
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GO RED FOR WOMEN
fyi
Go Red For Women Celebrating 10 Years of Saving and Changing Lives
ANNUAL GO RED LUNCHEON SET ON FEB. 14 AT HYATT WESTLAKE PLAZA For more than a decade, women have been fighting heart disease individually and together as part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement. Since 2004, more than 627,000 women’s lives have been saved, but nearly 1,100 women are still dying each day. Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women – claiming the lives of more women than all forms of cancer combined. Most women don’t notice the symptoms of heart disease until it’s too late, which is why heart disease has been called the silent killer. Well-known heart attack symptoms can include chest pain and radiating discomfort in the left arm. But there are several other ways your body may tell you when something isn’t quite right, potentially with your heart. Watch for these warning signs:
• Shortness of breath: Women often struggle to breathe a few weeks before experiencing a heart attack • Back pain: Irregular pain in the lower or upper back can indicate stress to the heart muscle • Jaw pain: Pain radiating to the neck, jaw and back • Nausea: Flu-like symptoms are often reported weeks and days before a heart attack Trust your gut. Go to your local emergency room if you are not feeling normal or are experiencing symptoms. It is better to take care of yourself and prevent damage to your heart, in the event you are having a heart attack.
Go Red For Women Luncheon Go Red For Women hosts annual Luncheons nationwide to bring women together and empower them with the knowledge and tools to live heart-healthy lives. This year’s Ventura County Go Red For Women Luncheon is on Feb. 14 at Hyatt Westlake Plaza in Westlake Village. The half-day event will feature keynote speaker Sheila Cluff, internationally-known fitness expert and founder of the The Oaks at Ojai. Guests will also enjoy educational sessions, health expo and a heart-healthy luncheon. Chairing this year’s event is Rick Lemmo, Senior Vice President of Community Relations at Caruso Affiliated. Lemmo is a heart disease survivor who was born with heart defects. He is the first male to take on the role of luncheon chair in Ventura.
For tickets and information, visit VenturaGoRedLuncheon.org or call 805-445-7050. FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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CONNECTION
DR. SABIRA SAIFUDDIN
DR. SABIRA SAIFUDDIN
FAMILY PSYCHIATRY CUTTING-EDGE PSYC DR. SABIRA SAIFUDDIN OF THE by Alicia Doyle
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SABIRA SAIFUDDIN, MD ORIGINALLY ENTERED THE FIELD OF MEDICINE BECAUSE HER MOM AND GRANDFATHER WANTED HER TO BE A DOCTOR. “HOWEVER, ONCE I WAS IN MEDICAL SCHOOL, I LOVED IT AND COULDN’T IMAGINE DOING ANYTHING ELSE,” RECALLED DR. SAIFUDDIN, A DIPLOMATE OF THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROLOGY.
“After the first four years of general medical training it came time to decide what field of medicine I would pursue,” she continued. “After much thought, I decided to pursue psychiatry because I believed that I could make the most amount of impact on my patients’ well-being.”
PRACTICE PHILOSOPHY A board-certified general, child, adolescent and addiction psychiatrist, Dr. Saifuddin has had a private practice of psychiatry and anti-aging medicine since 2003. “My practice philosophy emphasizes treating the whole patient and not just symptoms,” she explained. “I focus not only on improving the patient’s mental and physical well-being but also their general functioning.” At her practice—Family Psychiatry, located in Westlake Village—much of her work with patients focuses on prevention of complications and catching problems before they materialize. “Besides providing mental health treatment, I counsel my patients on lifestyle changes, nutrition, supplements and stress management,” Dr. Saifuddin said. With a solo practice of psychiatry, Dr. Saifuddin has a medical assistant who helps with various front desk and patient care duties.
PROVIDES HIATRIC CARE
WESTLAKE WELLNESS CENTER FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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CONNECTION
DR. SABIRA SAIFUDDIN
“I work collaboratively with other physicians, therapists, psychologists, nutritionist in the area in order to have a comprehensive treatment approach,” said Dr. Saifuddin, who sees most psychiatric conditions and all ages. “But conditions that I typically see a lot in my office are ADHD, both in children and adults, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger problems, sleep problems, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), addiction and alcohol dependence,” Saifuddin said.
COMING TO AMERICA Born in Karachi Pakistan, Dr. Saifuddin came to the United States as a young adult. After completing her medical residency and fellowship training at University of Southern California and L.A. County Medical Center, she graduated in 2000.
what’s going on and treating them, but most importantly, when they get better and I see a smile on their face, I find that most gratifying.”
EMOTIONAL HEALTH Dr. Saifuddin believes if an individual’s emotional health is optimum, they can pretty much handle any type of challenge in their lives whether it be illnesses, financial problems or family problems. “Everything hinges on good emotional health,” she said. “If a person is unstable emotionally, every aspect of their life will suffer and they won’t be able to avail the opportunities in their life,” Dr. Saifuddin further emphasized. “Therefore, with each and every patient I see, I try to identify and treat not only the acute symptoms to relieve their immediate suffering but ultimately my goal is to make sure they are able to achieve optimal functioning.”
“My kids were very young at the time and we were looking to move to a nice residential neighborhood with good schools,” Dr. Saifuddin explained. In 2003, her family moved to Oak Park and she established her private practice in Westlake Village.
BRAIN CHEMISTRY TESTING
“I love interacting with my patients, being able to educate them about
“Brain chemistry testing quantifies the severity of chemical dysfunction
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
Last year, Dr. Saifuddin implemented brain chemistry testing in her practice, which allows her to detect the abnormalities in the chemical makeup of the patient’s brain.
in the brain, thereby guiding my treatment, helping me to customize it to the individual patient’s needs, and ensuring excellent treatment outcomes,” she said. “I have to say that it is a fascinating aspect of my practice and I am in awe of the amazing insight it provides.” In addition, Dr. Saifuddin is planning to incorporate hormonal testing in her mental health patients since hormonal imbalances can play havoc on emotional health, sleep and sexual health. “Correcting those can lead to a tremendous improvement in the quality of life,” Dr. Saifuddin said. She added that there have been exciting new developments in the area of Brain Fitness. “I want to pursue anti-aging treatments geared toward preservation of good brain function with aging; prevention of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementias; and minimization of general cognitive decline with aging,” Dr. Saifuddin said. Family Psychiatry is located at 5565 Lindero Canyon Road, Suite 405, in Westlake Village. For more information call 805.341.3416 or visit www.cuttingedgepsychiatry.com.
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SPECIAL HEALTH BULLETIN
PRINZMETAL’S ANGINA/CORONARY VASOSPASM
Prinzmetal’s Angina/Coronary Vasospasm A Variant Form of Angina by Dr. Alon Steinberg
THE CORONARY (HEART) ARTERIES ARE BLOOD VESSELS ON TOP OF THE HEART THAT PROVIDE FLOW TO THE HEART MUSCLE ITSELF. THESE ARTERIES DEVELOP ARTERIOSCLEROSIS (PLAQUE) THAT CAN LEAD TO BLOCKAGES THAT CAUSE ANGINA (CHEST PAIN), MYOCARDIAL INFARCTIONS (HEART ATTACKS) AND DEATH.
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A LESSER-KNOWN CAUSE OF HEART PROBLEMS There is another important cause of chest pain resulting from narrowing coronary arteries that can cause myocardial infarctions and death. The coronary or heart blood vessels can also close when blood vessels are constricted due to the increase in tone and contraction of the small muscle fibers in the blood vessel wall. This is known as Prinzmetal’s angina, cardiac syndrome X or variant angina. It is most commonly called coronary vasospasm. Dr. Myron Prinzmetal graduated from Roosevelt high school in Los Angeles and from UCLA. He started to practice and perform research at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in 1939 (this hospital later become known as Cedars-Sinai hospital). Dr. Prinzmetal published his landmark report on coronary vasospasm, A Variant Form of Angina, in 1959. The syndrome became better known as “Prinzmetal’s angina.”
SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES Classic angina due to arteriosclerosis usually presents as chest pain due to an increase in workload. For example when one exercises or does something strenuous, the heart needs more blood but can’t get enough due to a plaque buildup obstructing the heart artery flow. This stress gives one chest pain or angina. Coronary vasospasm is not yet completely understood. It appears more random and is not related to workload or stress. Some patients experience partial constriction with activities but most achieve narrowing at rest. In most cases, coronary artery vasospasm occurs spontaneously without a specific cause. Some triggers have been identified including smoking or hyperventilation (breathing rapidly). The most common trigger I have seen for Prinzmetal’s angina is secondary to cocaine use but most patients with coronary vasospasm (spasm) have no clear cause. The exact physiologic mechanism causing variant angina is not
completely understood but is likely due to a dysfunction of the lining of the coronary blood vessel. The underlying causes of the spasm is thought to be a lack of a chemical called nitric oxide (NO) in the blood vessel and/or an oversensitivity of the blood vessel to a chemical called acetylcholine. Certain genes that compromise NO are associated with coronary vasospasm. Vasospasm has been associated with inflammation in the blood vessels, which can increase a blood marker called CRP. Some behavior traits like type A personality, panic disorder and anxiety can be associated with vasospasm. Variant angina is more common in younger females but can occur in men. The age of developing the disease is variable. In medical literature, the patients are in their 50s on average onset of coronary vasospasm but most patients I have seen with it have been in their 30s and 40s. Variant angina is three times more common in Japan and Korea than in the USA. Most people have clusters of attacks that occur over a few months separated by long periods with no symptoms. Recurrent symptoms of coronary vasospasm gradually decrease over time. The constriction of the coronary artery can vary from a partial occlusion, giving chest pain, or a complete occlusion causing a heart attack. Even though coronary vasospasm can cause symptoms and a heart attack, death is uncommon.
DIAGNOSIS CAN BE DIFFICULT Variant angina is suspected when chest pain occurs at rest and not with exercise. Chest pain is associated with specific electrocardiogram (EKG) changes called ST elevation. Prinzmetal’s angina may be difficult to diagnose since a patient needs to have a monitor or EKG on while having chest pain. When patients arrive at the hospital with a heart attack but a cardiac catheterization procedure (coronary angiography or X-ray pictures of heart arteries) shows no clear significant
blockages, they are usually suspected to have variant angina. Specific drugs may need to be given during coronary angiography to induce spasm of the arteries, helping to make the diagnosis. Many people with variant angina have spasm associated with stable plaque or arteriosclerosis in their coronary arteries. Cardiologists sometimes see some coronary vasospasm during coronary angiography associated with plaque/arteriosclerotic rupture but this is not the classic variant angina. Having arteriosclerosis (plaque in heart arteries) increases one’s risk. Risk of death from variant angina without significant arteriosclerosis is 6 percent in 5 years. But in people with coronary vasospasm and arteriosclerosis in many vessels, the risk of death is increased to 23 percent in 5 years.
T R E AT M E N T Treatment includes avoiding things that may trigger vasospasm such as smoking. Medications such as calcium channel antagonists (amlodipine, diltiazem or verapamil) and nitroglycerin are the main treatments and work in 80 to 90 percent of patients. Persistent symptoms despite medication are challenging. At times a stent (small mesh metallic tube) needs to be placed at the area of recurrent spasm to keep the artery from closing. If a patient has plaque associated with the spasm it is important to aggressively treat arteriosclerosis causes (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, etc). Prizmental’s angina was first described more than 60 years ago and our knowledge is still limited. Ongoing research is being performed to evaluate causes, triggers and treatments. Alon Steinberg, MD, FACC is a board certified cardiologist practicing with Cardiology Associates Medical Group in Ventura and Oxnard. His office can be reached at 805.278.4020 or visit www.cardiacadvantage.com. FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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HEALTH VIEW 1
THE HEART OF CACAO
The Heart of
CACAO by Merissa Marcuccella
THEOBROMA CACAO LITERALLY TRANSLATES TO THE FOOD OF THE GODS. CHOCOLATE IS THE WORLD’S FAVORITE FOOD. IS IT ANY WONDER THAT SUCH A TEMPTING, INDULGENT, DEEPLY LOVED AND REVERED FOOD COULD ALSO HAVE INCREDIBLE NUTRIENT POTENTIAL?
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German scientist Alexander von Humboldt expounds upon the glory of cacao, “The cocoa bean is a phenomenon, for nowhere else has nature concentrated such a wealth of valuable nourishment in so small a space.” Strictly speaking, when it comes to nutritional superfood powerhouses, raw cacao is not to be confused with its processed cousin, cocoa, which has been cooked and processed with alkali, aluminum, and is stripped bare of essential nutrients.
Interestingly enough, women’s bodies naturally crave chocolate during menses because cacao contains iron and magnesium.
Theobroma cacao, this intoxicating, truly rich substance of which we speak, originates from what is now Mexico. It was so highly revered that the cacao beans were actually used to pay laborers like coins—truly worth their weight in gold. Montezuma, the emperor of the Aztec empire, says of cacao, “The divine drink, which builds up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink permits a man to walk for a whole day without food.”
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CACAO So where do we begin with the health benefits of cacao? Let’s start with the heart, the organ of love, life, and the circulation of vitality. The cacao bean contains flavonoids, which are phytochemicals so potently abundant with antioxidants and minerals they have been reported to potentially prevent strokes.
Cacao butter is chock full of omegas 6 and 9—omega 6 contributing to cellular structural integrity, tissue maintenance, and the body’s responses to inflammation, and omega 9 important for heart health and blood sugar control. Contrary to popular rumors, truly raw cacao contains very little caffeine. Cacao is the number one source of magnesium on earth. Magnesium is a crucial dietary element that helps keep blood pressure normal, bones strong, and the heart rhythm steady, as well as a major ingredient in the lining of the myelin sheathes in neurons. MS and fibromyalgia, as well as Parkinson’s disease, all share a common thread—a lack of myelin sheaths enveloping neurons, whose lack of lubrication causes information to misfire, thus leading to the different difficulties associated with these illnesses. Flavonoids increase cerebral blood flow, and thus increase cognitive capabilities like memory, retention and synaptic firing. Cacao is full of metals, minerals, endorphins and antioxidants. Here are just a few: chromium, anandamide (aka the bliss chemical), theobromine, manganese, zinc, copper, PEA, tryptophan, resveratrol, vitamin C, serotonin and arginine. Chromium is a metal used by people for weight loss, increas-
FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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Re-Balance
HEALTH VIEW 1
THE HEART OF CACAO
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FAMILY PSYCHIATRY A Division of Westlake Wellness Center
Sabira Saifuddin MD Medical Director
805-341-3416 www.cuttingedgepsychiatry.com 5655 Lindero Canyon Road, Suite 405 Westlake Village, CA 91362 18
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
ing muscle tone, decreasing body fat, improving athletic performance and elevating energy. Cacao has twenty times the amount of antioxidants of red wine and green tea.
byjoy Andea to the peace and oneGallagher feels after meditation, a good jog, or a pleasant encounter with a beloved friend or family member. It has been said that cacao is nature’s Prozac.
Cacao is not a superfood whose benefits are limited solely to the physical body. Raw chocolate contains arginine, an amino acid known to reduce anxiety and blood pressure, and is quite the potent aphrodisiac. Arginine, anandamide, and PEA are all very powerful chemicals that not only elevate moods but can aid in attaining a general sense of well-being and outright happiness.
HOW TO CHOOSE
David Wolfe, author of Naked Chocolate and a passionate raw food enthusiast, proudly declares, “Cacao is the number one longevity food in the world.” Consumption of raw cacao is a win-win; we are satisfying the body’s need for vital nutrition and getting to enjoy chocolate at the same time!
THE SPIRITUAL SIDE OF CACAO So if chocolate is good for your physical and mental well-being, and enhances your emotional wellbeing, who is to say that this miraculous food does not also enhance your spiritual fulfillment to boot? Anandamide is known as the bliss chemical, and acts as a neurotransmitter to relay an effect of extreme delight or bliss, comparable
That being said, the best raw chocolates for you to enjoy and also gain health benefits are dairy-
free and contain no refined sugar. Pasteurized dairy actually kills enzymes and antioxidant prowess. Interestingly enough, women’s bodies naturally crave chocolate during menses because cacao contains iron and magnesium. All the more reason to eat real, raw chocolate, not the processed, watered-down version provided by that big guy over in PA. Long past are the days when we avoided chocolate to prevent acne flare-ups, as we realize that the chocolate itself is not the culprit; it is the processed ingredients added into the mix.
SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported that raw chocolate may help protect skin from UV damage. Scientists published in The Journal of Nutrition performed an experiment in which they found drinking a cacao-rich beverage not only improved skin elasticity and hydration, it reduced redness of the skin or uneven skin tones. Yeah for beautifying food! Cacao in itself is truly a beauty food, as it contains high levels of sulfur (which is another form of collagen) and helps to develop youthful skin, nails, and connective tissue in general. Sulfur has been said to assist in detoxifying the liver and also supporting healthy pancreas function. It is a dream conjured into reality, the idea of a delectable treat also being medicinal in quality. With cacao, we have this dream actualized. If cacao were a pharmaceutical, we would have indeed grasped the greatest medicine of all time.
With copayments and premiums going up, and insurance-covered services going down — there’s never been a greater need for Aflac. Aflac pays cash benefits to help cover things that major medical doesn’t — like out-of-pocket medical costs and everyday living expenses. Call Julie today!
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I personally find it a great plus that the remedy is not a pill or tasteless tablet, but a rich, fabulous, malleable substance that can be transformed from bean to paste, and from solid bite to intoxicating elixir beverage. To indulge and to benefit holistically in such a seductive synergy is indeed sinfully satisfying. To your health, joy and ultimate vitality!
Merissa Marcuccella is the founder and CEO of Love Bites Raw Confections based in Thousand Oaks, CA. For more yummy information, visit Rawlovebites.com FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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HEALTH VIEW 2
ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Atrial Fibrillation and the Risk of Stroke by Dr. Ishu Rao
ATRIAL FIBRILLATION (AF), IS THE MOST COMMON SUSTAINED HEART RHYTHM ABNORMALITY IN THE WORLD. IN THE U.S. ALONE, IT AFFECTS ALMOST 3 MILLION PEOPLE. IT IS CHARACTERIZED BY CHAOTIC ACTIVITY OF THE UPPER CHAMBERS OF THE HEART, OR ATRIA.
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AF patients often complain of palpitations, irregularity of their heart rhythm, fatigue, and weakness. Despite these symptoms, however, the high risk of stroke remains the most devastating potential consequence of AF. In AF, the normal, organized activity of the atria is replaced with up to 500 disorganized beats each minute, resulting in quivering contractions of the otherwise strongly squeezing upper chambers. Instead of blood moving briskly through the atria, it pools and trickles sluggishly into the ventricles, or lower chambers of the heart. Strokes can be caused by a variety of mechanisms, but all have one common characteristic - the failure of blood and oxygen to get to the brain. In AF patients, the sluggish flow of pooling blood causes tiny clots to form in the left upper chamber of the heart, the left atrium. Studies have shown that 90 percent of these clots originate in the left atrial appendage, a small, blind cul-de-sac like outpouching of the left atrium.
COUMADIN — T H E M A I N S TAY O F T R E AT M E N T For decades, the blood thinner Coumadin (warfarin) has been used to minimize the risk of stroke in AF patients. In lower risk patients, aspirin has been found to be equally helpful.
Dr. Ishu Rao assisted by CVT John Uyeno performing a CRT-D implant.
How can you determine your risk of stroke? Physicians use the CHADS-VASc scoring system to help predict if patients can be treated with aspirin alone, or if Coumadin is necessary. Simply, CHADS-VASc is an acronym - the letters represent particular conditions. Points are assigned for each risk factor: • Congestive Heart Failure (1 point). • Hypertension (1 point). • Age 65 to 75 (1 point). • Diabetes (1 point). • Stroke history (2 points). • Vascular disease history (1 point). • Age over 75 (2 points). • Sex Characteristic: Female (1 point). A patient with a score of 0 or 1 can be treated with aspirin alone. Any score of 2 or greater requires Coumadin for adequate safety. Appropriately treated, even the strokeprobability of higher-risk patients can be reduced to about 1 percent per year.
N E W E R M E D I C AT I O N S Though Coumadin has been proven effective for stroke reduction in AF patients, it has many drawb acks. Coumadin dosing has been notoriously difficult to regulate in many patients because of its interactions with other medications, including some used regularly to treat AF, as well as the
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HEALTH VIEW 2
ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
effect of a patient’s diet on the blood thinning levels of the drug. Additionally, Coumadin requires stringent monitoring to ensure that the level is in the therapeutic range. The INR (Protime) test can be performed in a physician’s office with a fingerstick blood draw, but often must be conducted weekly to monthly to confirm that the level is appropriate. Understandably, many patients find this to be inconvenient. Recently, the medications Pradaxa, Xarelto, and Eliquis have reached the market and are used to replace Coumadin. Their advantages include once or twice daily dosing without the need for monitoring blood tests. Studies have confirmed that these medications are at least equally effective as Coumadin in preventing strokes caused by blood clots that form in the atrium.
S O M E PAT I E N T S C A N ’ T TA K E B L O O D THINNERS Unfortunately, physicians often encounter the challenge of the patient who carries a substantial risk of stroke due to their AF but with a high likelihood of bleeding from another condition. Patients who have had a history of catastrophic hemorrhage, such as from a ruptured brain aneurysm or from gastrointestinal bleeding, should typically not be placed on blood thinning medications. The choice the physician then faces is daunting - avoid blood thinners and risk a debilitating stroke or treat with blood thinners and encounter calamitous bleeding? Recently, a third alternative has emerged. For decades, heart surgeons 22
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have removed the left atrial appendage during open heart surgery in an effort to limit the risk of stroke in the AF patient. This approach has been proven effective, and has led investigators to embark on the development of less invasive means of achieving this goal. The result has been the development of a new class of therapies targeted to eliminate the left atrial appendage from the circulation.
aspirin is required for long term stroke risk reduction. The LARIAT procedure relies upon a similar concept in appendage exclusion. Rather than approaching the appendage with a plug inside it’s opening, the LARIAT seeks to place a suture loop around the outside of the appendage. By tightening this permanent suture, the operator closes off the appendage, thus eliminating it
For a decade, different approaches of implanting a plug in the opening of the appendage have been explored. The Watchman device has shown the most promise thus far, and the expectation among Cardiologists is that this device will be released for commercial use soon, perhaps before the end of 2014. The Watchman has undergone rigorous testing and clinical trials indicate that it will prove to be equal to Coumadin in its ability to reduce stroke in the AF patient. The device consists of several struts covered with a mesh fabric, similar to an expandable umbrella. When implanted in the opening of the appendage, the Watchman separates the clot-forming blind pouch of the appendage from the rest of the heart’s circulation. Because 90 percent of clots that result in stroke originate in the appendage, the exclusion of this structure from the circulation decreases the patient’s risk of stroke dramatically. The Watchman is implanted via minimally-invasive access in the groin blood vessels and requires no surgical incisions or repair. The patient usually stays in the hospital overnight, and within six weeks of implantation only
Dr. Ishu Rao discusses electrogram findings with his staff.
from the blood’s circulation. The LARIAT is deployed by entering the narrow space around the heart. Technical aspects limit its application to all patients. Specifically, patients who have undergone previous heart surgery are not candidates because of the scar tissue that results from that procedure. Also, not all appendages are anatomically suitable for the LARIAT. A pre-procedure CT scan of the chest can identify appropriate candidates. Similar to the Watchman, the LARIAT is a minimally invasive procedure with no need for surgical incisions. While theoretically promising, the LARIAT’s ability to reduce stroke risk in AF patients has not been proven in comparison to blood thinners, though studies are underway. Because of this lack of data, most
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physicians only recommend the LARIAT for patients with a high risk of stroke (CHADS-VASc of 2 or greater) and a compelling reason not to take blood thinners.
W H AT A B O U T A B L AT I O N ? Cardiac ablation procedures have been performed by Electrophysiologists (Cardiologists with sub-specialty training in heart rhythm disturbances) for decades. Only in the last fifteen years have these techniques been used to target AF. In that time, AF ablation has been proven to be successful in 70 to 85 percent of cases. AF ablation, a minimally invasive procedure typically performed in less than four hours and requiring only an overnight hospital stay, is indicated for patients who have symptoms from AF and have failed therapy with medication. Importantly, no large studies have shown this procedure reduces the risk of stroke. Hence, it is not currently viewed as a feasible means of eliminating the need for blood thinners in the high risk patient.
IN SUMMARY… Atrial Fibrillation continues to provide daily challenges to physicians and patients. While Coumadin has been the mainstay of stroke reduction, newer blood thinners show significant promise in their ability to similarly reduce the risk of stroke without the inconveniences posed by Coumadin. In the near future, we hope to see viable options with minimally-invasive procedural interventions that may eliminate the need for blood thinners entirely. As ablation technology and experience evolve, we hope to be able to cure patients of AF permanently.
Dr. Ishu Rao is a Board Certified Electrophysiologist and the Director of Electrophysiology at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura. He has offices in Ventura and Oxnard and is available for consultation on all of the therapies discussed here. In addition to complex ablation procedures, he performs pacemaker and defibrillator implantation and extraction procedures. He can be reached through his office at 805-653-0101.
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HEALTH VIEW 3
NO SCAR BUNION SURGERY
No Scar
Bunion Surgery by Dr. Alireza Khosroabadi
AND GETTING MEDICATION WAS A MUCH DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE THAN IT IS TODAY. IN DAYS GONE BY, PHARMACISTS COMPOUNDED EACH PRESCRIPTION BY HAND, TAILORING EACH ONE
BUNION IS JUST A HARD
SPECIFICALLY TO THE
BUMP ON THE SIDE OF THE
NEEDS OF THE PATIENT.
BUMP IS REFLECTIVE OF MAJOR CHANGES THAT HAVE OCCURRED INSIDE THE FOOT.
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GOING TO A PHARMACY
TO MOST PEOPLE, A
BIG TOE. HOWEVER, THAT
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
When someone has a bunion, the big toe leans toward the second toe instead of pointing forward. Over time, the bones inside the foot shift and slowly produce the bunion bump, which becomes larger and more obvious.
is traditional bunion surgery leaves unsightly scars on the outside of the foot and scar tissue inside the foot. Patient recovery following traditional bunion surgery takes weeks. People experience pain, have to use crutches and have a limited range of motion.
Bunions are not inherited, but the way our feet are constructed is inherited, which can make a person more likely to develop a bunion. Contrary to some old wives tales, shoes do not cause bunions, but can make bunions get worse and appear sooner.
NEW, IMPROVED BUNION SURGERY
Symptoms of a bunion include the bump on the side of the big toe, pain, soreness, inflammation, redness and possibly even numbness. People usually experience these symptoms when they wear shoes with a small toe box or high heels. Because women often wear high heels, they experience bunions more often than men. When people spend long periods of time on their feet, their bunions can become aggravated.
BUNION RELIEF Unfortunately, bunions do not go away on their own, but rather get worse over time. That is why people who experience bunions should consult a foot and ankle specialist, who will examine their foot and take X-rays to see how far the bunion has progressed. Some non-surgical treatments can help with the pain of bunions, including wearing shoes that are more comfortable and provide plenty of room, placing pads over the area of the bunion, taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, applying ice to the bunion, injecting steroids into the inflamed bursa (inside the foot), and custom orthotic devices.
TRADITIONAL BUNION SURGERY
Fortunately, there is a new procedure, called No Scar bunion surgery. I developed my own technique for this procedure, which is the most advanced cutting edge bunion procedure yet. I was invited to showcase this procedure on The Doctors TV show. With No Scar bunion surgery, patients can get back on their feet in two to four weeks. Some have gone back to work in as little as one week—much faster than if they had traditional bunion surgery which can keep a patient off their feet for up to three months. As mentioned earlier, with traditional bunion surgery, there are unsightly scars on the outside of the foot. However, No Scar bunion surgery is performed with a much smaller incision. It leaves little, if any, scars on the outside of the foot. Traditional bunion surgery also leaves scar tissue, which is inside the foot. Scar tissue is the cause of prolonged pain after surgery. It also limits movement, which in this case would be that of the big toe. That means patients often have to go to physical therapy after their surgery to try to restore their range of motion. No Scar bunion surgery leaves no scar tissue buildup. Patients have far less pain afterwards and do not lose any significant range of motion of their big toe or any other part of their foot after surgery.
However, if nonsurgical treatments do not relieve bunion pain that interferes with normal activities, then bunion surgery is needed. Bunion surgery actually removes the bump of bone and fixes the bones inside the foot.
Swelling is one of the biggest problems with traditional bunion surgery. Because the foot is the lowest part of the body, swelling in that area tends to stay longer because it has nowhere to go. A swollen foot means people have to wait longer to get back on their feet and wear their shoes.
While the good news is bunions can be treated with surgery, the bad news
With No Scar surgery the incision is so small that the swelling is not
PMS 433
R = 59 G = 26 B= 7
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HEALTH VIEW 3
NO SCAR BUNION SURGERY
BEFORE AFTER noticeable. Minimal swelling means minimal pain, so people can go back to their regular shoes as soon as four to six weeks, if not sooner. Here’s an analogy of the No Scar bunion surgery versus traditional surgery: If you had a gallbladder removed 20 years ago you probably stayed in the hospital for two days and you have a 6-inch scar. Now, doctors are able to remove the gallbladder leaving only two small holes and you can go home the same day. Why are doctors still making big incisions when patients can’t walk for few weeks after bunion surgery?
PAT I E N T S ’ E X P E R I E N C E During the past five years, I performed traditional bunion surgery, but the postoperative results were always a big concern to me. Most patients had pain for weeks, used crutches and had a significant amount of swelling. I have completed more than seventy No Scar bunion surgeries during the past twelve months and have found that my patients have had little to no complications. In fact, most of my patients are walking the next day without even using crutches. These patients took little to no pain medication and have gone back to work in as little as one week. My patients have ranged from college students to a 65-year-old retiree. It’s gratifying to see them on the first office visit after their No Scar bunion surgery, walking, smiling and telling me how they’ve experienced little pain and have been walking since the day after their surgery. Most people put off bunion surgery because they can’t afford the downtime after the procedure. They can’t be off their feet for a long period of time because of work, taking care of their children, etc. No Scar bunion surgery alleviates these problems. The No Scar bunion surgery has been so successful that I cannot imagine going back to traditional bunion surgery. With less pain and a faster recovery time, No Scar bunion surgery has changed this area of medicine forever.
Dr. Khosroabadi is a podiatrist at the Foot & Ankle Alliance at 11273 Laurel Canyon Blvd. #4, San Fernando, CA 91340. 818.898.2181 and 622 W.Duarte Rd, Arcadia, CA 91007. 626.447.2184 or visit www. fixmyfoot.com
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NATURAL APPROACH
INFLAMMATION AND HEART DISEASE
Cholesterol is Not the Problem Causing Heart Disease.
It’s Inflam by Sharon Norling, MD, MBA
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mones, vitamin D, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), even tea and chocolate all play important roles for controlling your heart health. Preventing heart disease requires much more than simply screening for high cholesterol. Fifty percent of all people who experience a heart attack have normal cholesterol.
mation DO YOU EVER WONDER WHY SOMEONE YOU KNEW HAD A STROKE OR A HEART ATTACK? THEY SEEMED HEALTHY AND WERE NOT OVERWEIGHT. Coronary artery disease (CAD), one type of heart disease, is the leading cause of heart attacks. The most common cause of CAD is atherosclerosis, a condition that occurs when plaque builds in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. “About three-quarters of the population older than 30 years has some lesion related to atherosclerosis in the arterial tree. This lesion gets worse almost every day in all these people and will eventually result in closure of a vital artery in half of them, causing their death,” said William P. Castelli, MD, director of Framingham Heart Study. Even though heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., you have more influence in helping to prevent it than you think. Cholesterol levels (good-HDL and bad-LDL), essential fatty acid deficiencies/ imbalances, high carbohydrate intake, stress, neurotransmitters, hor-
I N F L A M M AT I O N I S A M A I N C U L P R I T Cholesterol is not the problem. It is the inflammation which creates the plaques that causes atherosclerosis and heart disease. Heart disease, like so many other diseases, is caused primarily by inflammation. Diabetics have a higher risk of heart disease. Increased blood sugar and diabetes increase insulin levels. Insulin promotes inflammation which promotes cardiovascular disease (CVD), strokes and death. CVD is an inflammatory condition such as arthritis. A recent article published in Arthritis & Rheumatism noted, “Overall, there was a 50 percent increased risk of death in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). When looking at causes of specific deaths, patients with RA had a 59 percent increased risk of dying from ischemic heart disease (heart attack) compared with the general population and a 52 percent increased risk of death due to strokes.” Could a hidden food allergy or an infection in your mouth or intestines be causing your heart disease? We know food allergies, gluten sensitivity, celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome are all inflammatory diseases; therefore it should not come as a surprise that they, too, increase the risk of cardiac disease.1 Gastrointestinal infections can also increase the risk of heart disease.2 If you have risks for heart disease or have CVD, have your stool tested. Find the root cause of your inflammation. The right test will help determine the cause.
M E TA L T OX I N S I N T H E B L O O D Evidence-based medicine has clearly shown that clinicians must begin to pay more attention to some of the less-obvious factors that play a significant role in the development of obesity, diabetes and CVD.
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NATURAL APPROACH
INFLAMMATION AND HEART DISEASE
Inflam High levels of lead have been known to cause kidney and neurological impairment. But blood levels of lead as low as 5 to 9 ug/dL are associated with an increased risk for all causes of death, cardiovascular disease and cancer. These results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) study showed that low levels of lead have significant health consequences. According to Menke, lead exposure even as low as 2 mcg/dl is associated with a 55 percent increase in CVD, an 89 percent increase in heart attacks, and a 151 percent increase risk in strokes. It is estimated that 39 percent of the U.S. population has serum levels in that range. Dr. Mark Houston, a cardiologist and associate clinical professor of medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical School and director of the Hypertension Institute at Saint Thomas Hospital in Nashville, TN, presents the role of mercury toxicity in hypertension, cardiovascular disease and stroke. The clinical problems associated with mercury toxicity also include heart attacks, cardiac arrhythmias, atherosclerosis and kidney problems. The bottom line is that metal toxins can cause CVD and increased mortality. Toxicity can be minimized. Toxins can be removed by specific IV therapies, detoxifying foods and supplements. Lifestyle changes can reverse CVD. Researchers have linked BPA (bisphenol A) to increased risk of CVD, diabetes and liver problems.3 BPA is the chemical commonly found in plastics which has been banned from baby products by 30
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CTW MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014
many states and a few cities. It is still ubiquitous in many other products we use every day. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlorinated pesticides have been associated with increased risk of diabetes and cardiac problems.4 Yet, in spite of the fact that toxins can increase CVD, the pharmaceutical companies and physicians focus on cholesterol as if it were the only game in town! Does your cardiologist test for lead or mercury?
THE NEW CHOLESTEROL GUIDELINES CAN BE DANGEROUS On November 12, 2013 new cholesterol guidelines were announced in Circulation. The past guidelines recommended statins for the next 10 years for people of high risk. Now they are recommended for people who are healthy and have a low risk of heart disease.
The new guidelines do finally acknowledge that there is no good data to justify lowering LDL except maybe in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. LDL has important roles in cell formation, digestion and hormone production. Clearly it makes no sense to lower LDL to dangerously low levels. Statins lower CoQ10 levels and inhibit a very important mevalonate pathway. Simply stated, this pathway is responsible for normal metabolism. It is responsible for how our body works. It functions to make corticosteroids, sex steroids, bile acids and vitamin D. When this pathway is disrupted we are at risk for hormonal imbalance; muscle pain and problems; and memory, mental and emotional changes.
For those who have had a cardiac arrest such as a heart attack or stroke, statins have been shown to reduce the chance of another recurrence by 5 percent. But even in that class of patients, the drugs fail to help people live longer.
Statins have other issues: “The bottom line is that there appears to be an increased risk among people taking statins as far as getting cataracts,� said study lead author, Elizabeth Irving, PhD, research chairwoman in the School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada. And research has consistently shown people on statins increase their risk of getting diabetes by 9 percent.
Most physicians reach for the prescription pad and write an order for a statin. Statins lower LDL, considered the bad cholesterol. Yet a study published in the American Heart Journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes (January, 2009), found that nearly two-thirds of patients admitted to hospitals for heart attacks and cardiovascular events had low LDL-cholesterol levels, indicating they were not at high risk for heart problems.
Low cholesterol can be dangerous. In 1990, an NIH conference concluded from a meta-analysis of 19 studies that men and, to a lesser extent, women with a total serum cholesterol level below 160 mg (6th percentile) exhibited about a 10 to 20 percent excess total mortality compared with those with a cholesterol level between 160 to 199 mg. Low Cholesterol has been shown to increase the risk of dying from gastrointestinal and respiratory disease.5
mmation Cholesterol below 160 has also been shown to double the risk of cancer and shorten life expectancy. So why would you give statins to a healthy person with a low risk of heart disease? Abnormally low levels of cholesterol may indicate: • Hyperthyroidism—an overactive thyroid gland. • Liver disease. • Inadequate absorption of nutrients in the intestines. • Malnutrition. • Poor metabolism. • Compromised health. • Cholesterol is essential for: • Formation and maintenance of cell membranes (essential for life). • Making hormones (progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, cortisol). • Production of bile salts, which help to digest food. • Conversion of sunlight into vitamin D in the skin. We get approximately one-third of our cholesterol from what we eat. Two-thirds of cholesterol is made by the liver. Very low cholesterol may mean your body is shutting down and not able to make its own cholesterol. Cholesterol is not bad. Cholesterol makes up one-third of our cell membranes. It makes all our hormones. And “fats” is not a four-letter word. Our brain is 60 percent fat. Like fats, our life and our health need balance. Good fats are one of the keys to optimal health. The National Institute of Health recommends if you are diagnosed with high cholesterol you should follow a list of lifestyle changes for 12 weeks.
Yes, that is their recommendation. Why? Because it is safe, effective and without side effects. If your cholesterol has not lowered after three months, then consider using a medication.
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The bottom line is, heart disease is caused by many factors, all of them related to inflammation. Heart disease does not develop due to a statin deficiency. Find the root cause of your inflammation and live a heart healthy life. 1. De Kort S., et.al. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12 (6): 449–58 2. Tsai F, et.al. Gastroenterol Report August 2009; 11(4): 307–13 3. Lang I A, et.al. JAMA 2008; 300 (11) 1303–10 4. Jones O A, et.al. Lancet 2008; 371 (9609): 287–8 5. Jacobs DR, Blackburn H, Higgins M, Reed D, Iso H, McMillan G, et al. Report of the conference on low blood cholesterol: mortality associations. Circulation 1992; 86:1046–1060. 6. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute NIH Publication December 2005 No.06–5235 Dr. Sharon Norling brings a lifetime of education, training and passion in both conventional and natural medicine. Using specialized testing she finds the root cause of symptoms and illnesses and uses effective natural medicine whenever possible. She is the author of Your Doctor is Wrong. Her advanced medicine practice is located in Westlake Village. Call 818.707.9355 or obtain a free report at www.drsharonnorling.com.
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COMPASSIONATE EATING
PLANT-BASED PASSION
Plant-Based Passion Foods for Sexual Health by Bianca Rose Martinez
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SO MUCH OF OUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS DEPENDS ON WHAT FOODS WE PUT IN OUR BODIES. WHILE EATING LESS PROCESSED AND PACKAGED FOODS IS A GOOD START IT CAN SOMETIMES BE DAUNTING TO NAVIGATE THE WORLD OF NUTRITION AND DIETS. KEEPING THINGS AS SIMPLE AS POSSIBLE IS THE WAY TO GO. EATING LOTS OF FRESH HEALTHY VEGETABLES, HERBS, WHOLE GRAINS, LEGUMES, NUTS, SEEDS AND COLORFUL FRUITS CAN KEEP YOU VIBRANT, YOUTHFUL AND PROTECT YOU FROM DEGENERATIVE DISEASES.
Vegan Cashew Nut Cheese Plate for Two This dairy-free cashew nut cheese is creamy and delicious. You can also use it on pizza or as a creamy vegan Alfredo sauce for pasta, just thin the “cheese” by adding more warm water than the recipe calls for. INGREDIENTS 1 cup raw cashews 1-2 cloves minced garlic 1 tbs lemon juice 1/4 cup tahini (optional) 1/2 tsp salt (pinch) 2 tbs nutritional yeast flakes 1/4-1/2 cup of warm water chopped cilantro, dill or parsley, dried cranberries or chopped raw or roasted cashews for garnish veggies & crackers for dipping and spreading If you are cooking something special for yourself or your sweetie this month here are some tips for creating a sumptuous dining experience.
Texture A key to creating a romantic meal is the textures of foods. Think creamy sauces and smooth mouth feelings. Some great foods to use are avocados, which can be used in salads or in a chocolate mousse. This womb shaped fruit is good for balancing hormones in the body and is loaded with good, buttery fats.
Sharing Things that are easy to feed your mate like chocolate dipped berries, bites of pasta on a fork or a spoonful of a creamy soup.
Nutrition Of course we have to absorb some good nutrition to keep our amazing bodies flowing with vitality. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are good for prostate health and can even eliminate inflammation. Raw seeds are best and you can easily sprinkle them on a variety of dishes as a decorative, protein filled topping.
Circulation
DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients together into a blender or food processor except water and garnishing ingredients. Slowly add a little water at a time and blend until smooth paste forms. (If you add too much water you can always add a few more cashews or nutritional yeast to create the right consistency.) With a spoon or rubber spatula take out 3-4 spoonfuls of cashew cheese and with wet hands form a little “log” or ball on a plate. Garnish cheese using chopped dried cranberries, fresh herbs and chopped cashews.
Some spices that will get blood flowing to all the right places are turmeric, cumin and paprika. Use them to add some extra flavor to rice or quinoa. Nothing spoils the mood like indigestion - cumin, cardamom and coriander are also good for gas and bloating.
Serve with sliced veggies and your favorite crackers or toasted baguette.
Other Aphrodisiac Foods
Bianca Rose Martinez is an artist, public speaker and author of the book Compassionate Eating: Conscious Consumption for Mind, Body, Spirit & Planet. She also teaches organic vegan cooking classes in Ventura, CA. For free recipes, class schedule and registration please visit compassionateating.com
Cacao and macca root (sold as a powder) can be added to smoothies, desserts and sauces. Mushrooms because of their high magnesium content, and melon’s sweet and soft texture has been know to get juices flowing in women-especially watermelon.
Ambiance Light some candles, turn on some sexy music and dress up even if you are staying home! Cooking and serving someone you love can be a passionate expression of your devotion and desire for him or her. The time, attention to detail and the sexual energy that builds during the cooking and enjoying of delicious food can be enjoyed long after the pots and pans are put away.
Enjoy!
Have questions on how to make the cashew nut cheese? Watch the how-to video on compassionateating.com. FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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MIND & SPIRIT
PORN AND YOUR MAN
PORN Is it a problem with your man? by Wayne M. Levine
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On a computer, cache holds copies of recently viewed images like web pages and photos, and keeps them available so one can access them again instantly instead of having to return to a particular website.
Perhaps your man is looking at porn—maybe even quite a bit. Before you quickly label him a sex addict—a very popular tendency these days— or a sick jerk, a cheat, or just a disappointment—let’s take a deep breath and look at this situation and the man you love with compassion and an informed perspective. Let’s briefly address two questions. First, is porn inherently bad? And second, is porn a problem for you and your man?
Is Porn Inherently Bad? Much of the porn material freely available on the web—some would argue all of the material—is degrading to women. We have to be mindful of the negative impact these images have on men, and the ways in which they encourage objectification. More on this in a moment. But porn exists and it has for millennia. It is not going away. So whether it is inherently bad is, perhaps, not even relevant here. Men are going to view it. It is part of one of the world’s largest industries—sex. And as mentioned in the musical Avenue Q, it is, for many, what the Internet is for. So let’s address how porn might be bad for the two of you.
The female form is beautiful. But when men stop seeing the woman, or the girl, and only see her for the role she might play in their fantasies, then men begin to wrestle with the deeper issues relating to relationships and intimacy. It’s a constant battle for many men. For some, it wreaks havoc in their lives.
Cache Problem On a computer, cache holds copies of recently viewed images like web pages and photos, and keeps them available so one can access them again instantly instead of having to return to a particular website. It’s convenient. Whenever you want, you can hit a button and empty the cache, deleting from the memory all the images previously viewed. Emptying the cache on a computer is easy. But when it comes to a man’s brain, there is no emptying the cache. There is no deleting those images from his memory. And therein lies the problem.
Objectification
In a single sitting a man can view literally hundreds of images, stills and movies. These images don’t quickly disappear. They remain in a man’s conscious and unconscious mind. They can become the reference point for what sex should be with his significant other.
Men objectify women all the time. We’re encouraged to do so every day thanks to a constant flood of media that takes advantage of our propensity to want to view more and more of whatever parts we happen to like.
These images can and do affect how a man views sex, intimacy and women, often in ways that negatively impact the man and his relationships. FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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MIND & SPIRIT
PORN AND YOUR MAN
Excessive Masturbation
Not looking and feeling so fresh?
We can help!
What’s excessive? I’ll leave that to you. It’s much like the question, “Are you an alcoholic?” The issue is whether the drinking is negatively impacting a man’s life and relationships. One man may consider himself an alcoholic because his daily glass of wine prevents him from being present with his family. Another man may believe he’s got a drinking problem because when he infrequently drinks, he drinks to excess. It’s a personal choice. Whether porn is a problem in a man’s life can be viewed similarly. Keep in mind that masturbation is a normal and healthy activity for men. But is he masturbating to porn daily (or multiple times daily) and then finding himself unmotivated in the sex and romance departments? If so, it sounds like a problem worth discussing with a counselor.
Is Viewing Porn Cheating?
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www.UroAntiAging.com
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He may not think so, but you might. It’s not a matter of who’s right and who’s wrong. It’s something that needs to be discussed. There’s a lot to learn. If this is a topic the two of you can’t discuss productively on your own, then get some couples counseling for the help you need to be able to have this important conversation. Hopefully, it’ll be the first of many conversations. As a society, we are not having honest conversations about sex. I believe this is at the core of what is ailing marriages today. If you’re among the many couples who view porn together to enhance your sexual experiences and you’re both happy with that choice, view on and enjoy. But if there’s a problem, or a sense that there might be a problem, I hope you’ll have the courage to talk about it. When we’re honest and loving, the solutions present themselves.
Wayne M. Levine, MA, is a men’s life coach and director of BetterMen Coaching in Agoura Hills. He teaches men to be the best men, fathers, husbands and leaders they can be through individual, couples and group coaching, both in office and via the phone. Wayne is author of the best-selling book, Hold On to Your N.U.T.s—The Relationship Manual for Men. To find out more, get a copy of Wayne’s book and register for the BetterMen Weekend Retreat at www.bettermencoaching.com.
“Professionial chef, mother of two boys. Very Active, on my feet all the time; runner, hiker. If it wasn’t for Dr.K’s procedure I would have never had my bunions done.” Jessica M.
Your community yoga & meditation studio specializing in therapeutic practices for children, adults & seniors.
28914 Roadside Drive, Suite 204 Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818 889 YOGA (9642)
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SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
NURTURING OUR SOULS
Divine Love
Loving and Nurturing Yourself by Denise Schriedel
DO YOU LOVE YOURSELF AS MUCH AS YOU LOVE OTHERS? IN WHAT WAYS TO YOU ALLOW SELFLOVE INTO YOUR LIFE? WHICH RELATIONSHIPS DO YOU FEEL MOST APPRECIATED AND VALUED? Each day we have an opportunity to express Love to the Universe through interaction and exchange with others. Love is the Universal Language. Therefore, it is inherent that you practice coming from a place of love in your heart to positively affect your connection with yourself and others. Try listing all the ways you love yourself including the comforts that you enjoy, healthy habits and the time you make for yourself during the day for simple pleasures. Your #1 priority is taking care of yourself so you will have the strength, energy and wisdom to take care of others in your family, your friendships and your career. When you realize that love brings you joy without any expectations, then you open yourself up for more love. Of course, in relationships, reciprocal love is the best to feel good because you are receiving what you are giving into it. Loving yourself enough is in direct correlation to how much love you will receive from others. Really. Try it! Smile at everyone you come in contact with, offer guidance or help to strangers, listen with compassion to people in your social circle, learn to understand the common bond that people have in their desire to be loved and to be happy. This is Divine Love from our Higher Power. Soon you will experience so much love and joy in return for what you give, that
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Hilda Maldonado, M.D.
it will continue to inspire you and create a greater spiritual awakening to the Divine Presence in your life. Remember: Like attracts like so it will be easy to stay positive, loving and optimistic. One day, your heart will be overflowing with God’s Gifts of Gratitude for the Divine Love you do have in your life. Stay open and receive all the love that comes to you. Love is the greatest gift. Love yourself. Enjoy living with love, passion, romance and intimacy. Love is the ultimate connection. Denise Schriedel is a freelance journalist specializing in wine, travel, resorts, and spas. She has devoted the last several years living at the beach enjoying her spiritual yoga practice, attending meditation classes and wellness events throughout the world and writing about her experiences in order to help her readers gain insight into their true dreams, desires and destiny. www. examiner.com/food-and-wine-travel-inlos-angeles/denise-schriedel
Regenerative & Anti Aging Medicine • Over ten years of experience using bio-identical hormone replacement therapy • Specialized testing for metabolic factors • Hormone balancing • Nutritional supplementation • Lifestyle changes (individualized diet and exercise) • Stress management • Education • Judicious use of medications as required Dr. Hilda Maldonado is board certified in Internal Medicine and additionally she is a diplomate of the American Academy of Regenerative and Anti-Aging Medicine.
1240 Westlake Blvd., Suite 133 Westlake Village, CA 91361 Phone / Fax: 805.496.6698 www.drhildamaldonado.com
FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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BEAUTY
THE NEW FACE OF COSMETIC MEDICINE
The New Face of Cosmetic Medicine
VOLUMA by Dr. Sarmela Sunder
EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE IN THE WORLD OF COSMETIC MEDICINE THERE COMES A PRODUCT THAT FILLS A VOID IN THE MARKET. ONE SUCH PRODUCT HAS ARRIVED THIS WINTER. ALLERGAN, THE MAKERS OF THE WELL-KNOWN FILLER JUVEDERM, RECENTALY RECEIVED FDA APPROVAL FOR JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC.
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One of the signs of youth is a prominent and full mid-face or cheek region. As we age, the cheek area loses its youthful contours.
Although it has been available in many international doctor’s offices since 2005, it has only been available in the United States for several months. In fact, it was available in 72 countries prior to receiving approval in the U.S.
What is Juvederm VOLUMA XC? Juvederm VOLUMA XC or VOLUMA for short, is the first and only hyaluronic acid filler that is FDA approved for injection in the cheek region to correct age-related volume deficits in individuals over the age of 21. It is composed of hyaluronic acid in the form of a smooth, colorless gel. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring body compound that enables the delivery of nutrients to the skin and helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture and softness. There is a small amount of lidocaine (a local anesthetic) in the product to make the injections more comfortable.
Who is a Good Candidate for VOLUMA? One of the signs of youth is a prominent and full mid-face or cheek region. As we age, the cheek area loses its youthful contours. With the cheeks flattening out, the surrounding and overlying skin may begin to sag. This can lead to prominent nasolabial folds (smile lines) and jowls. VOLUMA is a good option for anyone who has some volume loss in the cheeks. It can also impart the appearance of a subtle lift by filling in areas lacking in volume.
What Makes it Different from Other Fillers? One of the attributes of VOLUMA that sets it apart from Juvederm Ultra and other fillers is the fact that it is manufacFEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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BEAUTY
THE NEW FACE OF COSMETIC MEDICINE
Live life feeling your very best.
Your grandchildren will thank us. Same day appointments available. Many patients are referred by a Doctor, but a Doctor's referral isn't necessary. We offer the most innovative treatments for a full range of disorders including: 4 Chronic back pain 4 Disc pain
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tured using VYCROSS technology which allows for a thicker formulation of the product to produce long-lasting results. Another benefit of this filler that is quite comforting is that it can be easily reversed with the injection of an antidote. For example, if a week after injection the patient decides she/he doesn’t like how the VOLUMA looks, with one simple injection of the antidote, the filler can be completely dissolved. Finally, VOLUMA tends to look very natural without any significant swelling after injection. Patients like how it feels and love how it looks.
How Long Does it Last? According to the study conducted as part of the FDA trial, once the patient was treated optimally with the appropriate number of syringes, the product was shown to last up to two years. If patients needed a touch-up prior to the full two years, they usually didn’t need as much as they did for the first treatment.
How Many Syringes Does a Person Need to See a Significant Difference? The amount of filler required really depends on how much volume loss he/she has. Some people may only need two or three syringes, while others may require four or five. Your plastic surgeon or dermatologist should evaluate you in order to estimate how many syringes you will need.
What are the Side Effects? Some side effects include temporary reactions at the injection site such as bruising, discoloration, firmness, lumps/
DID YOU KNOW... bumps, itching, pain and discomfort at the injection site.
How Much Does VOLUMA Cost? The cost of the product varies across practices. Because it is a premium product and is longer-lasting than most products on the market, it will generally be priced accordingly.
WHAT ARE THE TOP 10 HEART HEALTHY SUPER FOODS? Almonds, avocados, blueberries, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, flax seed (ground), brown rice and salmon. Make sure you are buying only organic and that the salmon is wild Atlantic – not farm raised!
A consideration in the price point is the experience of the injector. Since it is a thicker product that needs to be placed deeper than some others, it is important for patients to seek an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist with a meticulous technique and an artistic eye in order to achieve the best results. Even if you have to pay a little bit more, the results will be more than worth it. Dr. Sarmela Sunder is a facial plastic surgeon with office locations at 16311 Ventura Blvd, Suite 600, Encino, CA 818.501.3223 and Ruth Swissa Spa, 29020 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA818.735.8818 . For more information, visit www.sunderplasticsurgery.com and www.facebook.com/facialsurgeon. FEBRUARY 2014 YHCONNECTION.COM
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BEYOND GREEN LIVING
INTERNAL CLEANSING AND NUTRITION
Internal Cleansing and Nutrition and a Life Lesson to Internalize by Jan Tucker
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AYURVEDA IS AN ANCIENT, 5,000-YEAR-OLD SCIENCE OF HEALING THAT ORIGINATED IN INDIA. AYURVEDA MEANS THE SCIENCE OF LIFE. MY AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER, DR. KULREET CHAUDHARY—DR. OZ’S AYURVEDA EXPERT—PRESCRIBED A WONDERFUL HERBAL TEA CLEANSE FOR ME AND MY HUSBAND. SO MANY OF US LOVE THE IDEA OF AN INTERNAL CLEANSE—BUT WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO DO IT?
When you’ve been working out or working on something that makes you sweat, nothing can help your body feel better than a good bath or shower. In the same way, cleansing your body on the inside can do wonders! Think of all the toxins—gone—that we inevitably breathe in and ingest through food and drink!
Just Three Half Teaspoons Change Everything When my husband and I rise in the morning, we drink a room temperature mixture of aloe vera (1/4 cup) and pomegranate juice (1/2 cup) on an empty stomach. Both are organic and with as little processing as we can find. Then we brew a daily detox tea for each of us, which consists of nothing but four to five cups of water and one-half teaspoon each of three spices—fennel, cumin and coriander—using the whole seed form. We boil the water, add the spices and then simmer or steep the tea for 10 minutes. We sip this comforting tea throughout the day. It’s comforting because it has the right nutrition to balance our doshas.
What is a Dosha? In Ayurveda, there are seven different body or biological types (involving physical, mental and emotional makeup). Body type is commonly known as dosha, from the language of Ayurveda which is Sanskrit, but dosha translates more fully to that which contaminates or causes disease. So the goal of Ayurveda is to balance the doshas, enabling the body to heal itself. Three different doshas (pitta, vata and kapha) combine in different amounts to result in the seven biological types. The recipe for the tea is very simple, and we are using a total of only 1 ½ teaspoons of these common herb seeds. When we were on this cleanse for only three months we found the difference to be amazing. Dr. Chaudhary verified by feeling our pulses on our second visit that our bodies reacted in the desired way. Our nervous (pitta) energy had relaxed significantly.
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BEYOND GREEN LIVING
INTERNAL CLEANSING AND NUTRITION
Both of us also noticed obvious signs this cleanse was working—our digestive process changed markedly, our energy level at first decreased significantly (while beginning the cleanse) and then increased markedly, and our sleep became much deeper and more restful. This recipe also results in an improved complexion since it removes the digestive toxins that normally deposit in your skin. So it is an anti-aging cleanse as well. The rest of Dr. Chaudhary’s treatment, which we are now working toward, is a program of right nutrition and some Ayurvedic supplements which were chosen, again, to assist the body in healing itself.
First Things First In Ayurveda, nutrition and diet are the first items of focus. And it’s all about balance. An Ayurvedic proverb teaches, “Without proper diet, medicine is of no use. With proper diet, medicine is of no need.” It makes common sense to put diet first—if your body is not getting the right nutrition and processing it properly, then nothing else you do for your health will be effective. It’s like putting gas into a car whose fuel injection system is unable to work properly—or better yet, putting electricity into a car whose controller is not able to correctly transfer power to the motor. It doesn’t matter how good the gas or electricity is—the car isn’t going to run properly without the ability to use it.
A Little Goes a Lot Further Than We Realize During my last acupuncture appointment, Dr. Yong Ping Chen of Camarillo, CA, pointed out a block in my kidney functioning and in the same breath said my estrogen was low. I asked, “Do you want me to start taking the soup again?” The soup is a liquefied mixture of nutritious Chinese herbs specially formulated to 46
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improve my immune system based on my body’s needs. I had been finding that I was way too susceptible to colds and flu and needed to correct this. She said, “No—still through nutrition—but all you need is a small amount of black sesame seed every day. Put it on your cereal or something.” I asked, “How much—a tablespoon?” She said, “No, no—more like a teaspoon.”
The Lesson We All Need to Think About What I learned from these two gifted doctors, and what I want to pass along to you, is that we can ingest minute amounts of the right kind of herb or spice or seed to change the way our body functions in major ways. And we can do this using plants—directly from nature. The other major takeaway is that if minute amounts of natural plant cures can be successfully targeted to tackle very specific disease and illness symptoms, then we need to be supremely careful about our diets. What we decide to eat on a regular basis has a major effect on our health. Eating the wrong things, such as processed foods, foods containing chemicals and other unnatural ingredients, high-fat foods or foods prepared in a way to alter or minimize their nutrition, white-flour and white-sugar products, caffeine and alcohol ultimately cause illness and disease. Instead we should eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, sprouts and nuts. Our bodies are not a factory or a machine. They are delicate instruments of nature and we should treat them with this in mind if we wish to be as healthy as possible.
A Word About Eastern Medicine If you haven’t used Eastern medicine before, you won’t realize how precisely the Chinese and Ayurvedic
herbs work to cure your ills. For instance, in the past I contracted bronchitis yearly. Doctors used to prescribe antibiotics just to make sure no bacterial infections would take hold as a result (not to cure the bronchitis). I would still remain sick for days. But when I started taking Chinese herbs during a bout of bronchitis eight years ago, I was amazed at how quickly my symptoms, both nasal and bronchial, responded to the herbs. I returned to health much more quickly and was able to resume my daily activities almost immediately rather than having to recuperate in bed as before. I was an immediate convert after spending years suffering through bronchitis without these remedies. The whole science of Eastern medicine is based on getting the body in condition using natural means so it can do the job of healing itself. It is also focused on preventive health— taking herbs and using nutrition to prevent illness rather than treating illness after it occurs. You can find Ayurvedic supplements, in addition to many everyday items you use in your home such as personal care items, cosmetics, cookware, cleaning solutions, air purifiers, steam cleaners, etc., minus all of the harmful chemicals, online at White Lotus Living.
Jan Tucker is founder of White Lotus Living, whose vision is all about positive thinking, returning to basics, tuning in with nature, unifying the world with compassion, and through all these principles—ultimately—world transformation. It’s about truth. www. whitelotusliving.com is also a place for consumers to learn about and gain access to truly green, natural products.
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Go Red For Women Celebrating 10 Years of Saving and Changing Lives
Join the Celebration and Raise Your Voice to Fight Heart Disease — the No. 1 Killer of Women
Ventura County
GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON
February 14, 2014 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Hyatt Westlake Plaza, Westlake Village www.venturagoredluncheon.org Educational Sessions · Motivational Speakers · Networking · Heart-Healthy Lunch Locally sponsored by
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