JANUARY 9-10, 2021 VACCINE DILEMNA

Do I take the vaccine ? Do I not take the vaccine ? I thought I share with you observations from a microbiologist

Thai-German microbiologist Dr. Sucharit Bhakdi discussed the vaccine risks

The first striking observation made by Dr. Bhakdi was that the vaccine, “developed in partnership with US pharma giant Pfizer” was not tested on individuals that are most likely to die of the coronavirus: elderly people with pre-existing conditions. In fact, Dr. Bhakdi specifically points out that the test subjects were “young, healthy people”. Still, “half of them had fever, chills, muscle aches, aching limbs, headaches, and they felt sick,” said the doctor.

Dr. Sucharit Bhakdi explains that the second “major risk” is the fact that the gene-altering Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccination “can cause very serious allergic reactions.” There have been reports of allergic reactions in patients receiving the vaccine

The third risk from the coronavirus vaccine, Dr. Bhakdi explains, is that it can “contribute an adverse overreaction to subsequent naturally occurring infections.” Bhakdi continues to say that the potential overreaction can also affect “other viruses” as well.

Reports from Pfizer and Moderna are conflicting from what this microbiologist states. Discuss receiving the vaccine with your health care professional.

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 8, 2021 THEOBROMA COOCOA

You know it as Cocoa or Chocolate, but it actually comes from a plant. Theobroma cacao, also called the cacao tree and the cocoa tree, is a small (4–8 m (13–26 ft) tall) Evergreen tree in the family Malvacea native to the deep tropical regions of Mesoamerica Its seeds, cocoa beans, are used to make chocolate and its derivatives. There are many health benefits to consuming cocoa. There is a high amount of polyphenols in cocoa .

Among those benefits are modulation of peripheral and cerebral blood flow, insulin sensitivity and carbohydrate metabolism, immune response, decreased cancer risk, anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of gut microbiota, neuroprotection, and improved cognitive function

An article was published by the American Botanical Council and published in its HerbalGram. It was titled Systematic Review of Studies Suggests a Positive Effect of Cocoa Polyphenols on Memory and Executive Function

Barrera-Reyes PK, de Lara JC, González-Soto M, Tejero ME. Effects of cocoa-derived polyphenols on cognitive function in humans. Systematic review and analysis of methodological aspects. Plant Foods Hum Nutr.  March 2020;75(1):1-11. doi: 10.1007/s11130-019-00779-x.

It was an interesting study reviewing 271 patients. "Overall, this set of studies suggest a positive effect of cocoa polyphenols on memory and executive function. However, the available evidence is very diverse and future studies may address the identified sources of variation to strengthen current evidence on this promising field," write the authors.

So eat more high phenol dark chocolate

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 7, 2021 POMEGRANATE

I always question whether it was an apple or a pomegranate in the Garden of Eden. There have been many studies on the benefit of this fruit, its juice and its seeds.

Pomegranate juice contains higher levels of antioxidants than most other fruit juices. It also has three times more antioxidants than red wine and green tea. The antioxidants in pomegranate juice can help remove free radicals, protect cells from damage, and reduce inflammation. We also know that the polyphenols in pomegranates exhibit antioxidant, anti-atherogenic, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antihyperglycemic effects. The authors conducted a controlled clinical trial to study the effects of fresh PGJ on levels of insulin, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and melatonin in adults with impaired fasting glucose

While reviewing my HerbalGram by the American Botanical Council on line in December 2020. The article was titled

Pomegranate Juice Produces Antihyperglycemic Response in Adults with Impaired Fasting Glucose

Banihani SA, Fashtaky RA, Makahleh SM, El-Akawi ZJ, Khabour OF, Saadeh NA. Effect of fresh pomegranate juice on the level of melatonin, insulin, and fasting serum glucose in healthy individuals and people with impaired fasting glucose. Food Sci Nutr. 2020;8(1):567-574. doi:10.1002/fsn3.1344.

In this study, fresh PGJ produced an antihyperglycemic response and a decrease in insulin resistance three hours after consumption in participants with IFG. All study participants experienced lower melatonin levels and higher insulin levels one hour after drinking PGJ. "These results provide some encouragement for people with prediabetes regarding fresh PGJ consumption as an alternative and safe-dietary contribution for blood glucose homeostasis," write the authors. This article is a nice, promising preliminary study of the antihyperglycemic effect of pomegranate juice in humans with IFG

I found this study to be useful and beneficial in my clinical practice.

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 4, 2021 FIGHT CANCER WITH FOOD

We all musty protect ourselves against cancer, whether there is a family history of not. The environment causes cancer. The air we breathe, the food we eat and the environment are risk factors for cancer. Keep eating fish, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Please be careful for the fish that contains mercury. This are tuna, sushi and swordfish. See www.vitalchoice.com for a full list of healthy fish. Two superstar heart disease protectors in these foods may also help fight cancer. Antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may be more powerful than we knew.

Found in fatty fish and certain nuts and seeds, omega-3 fatty acids help protect your heart. Studies show they help maintain brain function. Experts are also looking at how well omega-3 fatty acids can protect against age-related mental decline, eye diseases, arthritis, and others conditions.
Some experts think omega-3s may help protect against cancer. "Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to reduce inflammation in the body. And a variety of cancers have been linked to chronic inflammation," says Sarah Rafat, RD, a senior dietitian at MD Anderson Cancer Center. I utilize more than 4 grams ( 4,000 mg ) of EPA for most patients.

Cancers with a link to inflammation include:
1. Colorectal
2. Liver
3. Lung
4. Prostate

Omega-3s also seem to restrict tumor cell growth, and may cause cancer cells to self-destruct. Diet and cancer studies show mixed results. Some suggest that a diet that's rich in omega-3s can protect you against certain cancers. Other studies show no benefit.



There's not enough proof to conclude that loading up on fatty fish or taking fish oil capsules will slow down or reverse your condition if you already have cancer. But several studies do suggest that a diet rich in omega-3s helps some cancer patients tolerate chemotherapy better. Fatty acids from fish may also help patients maintain weight and muscle mass. Expert suggestions: The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fatty fish a week. If you don't eat fish, you can get omega-3s from canola oil and flax. Talk to your doctor before you start taking supplements. There is a link between high levels of omega-3s in the blood and an aggressive form of prostate cancer, according to scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Many fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are rich in antioxidants lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, some eye diseases, and various forms of cancer. Getting a single antioxidant from a pill, such as vitamin C or beta carotene, isn’t as protective. Supplements don't seem to protect against cancer or help fight it. If you want a regimen of supplements you need to see a Naturopathic Physician . Some antioxidants may even increase the risk of certain cancers. Experts also worry that high doses of antioxidants may reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

What we know so far: "We tell our patients to focus on food," says Veronica McLymont, PhD, director of food and nutrition services at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. "Foods contain a mix of many different antioxidants, along with other nutrients and fiber. The more colorful your diet is the better, since antioxidants and other phytochemicals are often what give fruits and vegetables their color.

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 31, 2020 THERMOGRAPHY

Yesterday was the last moon of the decade. For those that do not follow the moons— here is what it tell us . "Consider the next two days as a sort of spiritual incubation period for heading into the new year, to be used to suss out conditions, behaviors, or relationships that do or do not provide you a sense of safety, protection, and emotional equilibrium. The Cancer moon is highly instinctual and witchy, and can therefore be used to banish what is weighing you down; the energies that you do not want to make space for in 2021!"

Thermography is not a new science. The latest and newest book THERMOGRAPHY The Fibrocystic and Dense Breast by Patricia Bowen-Luccardi is now available. I read this book in its manuscript form months ago and was impressed I even wrote a recommendation for the book which appears on the inside cover.

Not only do I believe in the Science of thermography but have been an advocate for its use as it is a radiation free. I have known the author as a friend and colleague for many years. We have collaborated on many patient cases over the years

Through Amanda’s Story in the book you become engaged in her struggle and that of other countless women. You will this book insightful, enlightening, and educational . The book’s author is beyond reproach and I am proud to know her

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 30, 2020 PSILOCYBIN MUSHROOMS

Psilocybin Mushrooms are NOT new news. I have discussed them on my blogs and much has been written about the medical benefits they offer. Twenty four years ago, the mushroom ‘captain’ of the world as I call him, Paul Stamets wrote a book entitled “ Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World.” It is a must for your herbal library or if you are interested in plants with amazing potential for health. I have many books on Mushrooms—and Paul Stamets has written the best. You need to identify all types of mushrooms. Unless you are familiar with Mushrooms—you should never pick them randomly from a field and ingest them. Through the years I have am fairly comfortable with identifying mushrooms. I have been self taught through books , lectures and in different types of educational schools.

I have always knew about psilocybin mushrooms. I feel the latest book by Michael Pollan , “ How to Change Your Mind- What the New Science of Psychedelics… is a definite read if interested. It opened my mind of the possibilities. Why would a sober physician write about this ? Although I am sober nearly 27 years, I am a physician with a very open mind. Many of patients have asked about mushrooms, MDMA, Iborgane, Bufo and even Sappo. These all have psychedelic properties. There is a new resurgence or renaissance about these drugs especially in treating depression and addiction. This is excellent news . I feel more physicians should be educated and well informed . Michael Pollan as part of the research for the book experimented with LSD and psilocybin with the help of guides who prepared him. Kudos to Mr Pollan This is NOT taboo any longer

A then started to obtain and read a third book by Dr Torsten Passie, called The Science of Microdosing Psychedelics.” This book was written n 2019 and is a must read if you are going to consider micro dosing. I didn’t know the science behind micro dosing with psilocybin and other drugs. This book allowed me to better understand the science, the politics, and the experience. It is not for evereyone, but in the right setting can be for some.

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 29, 2020 NEW STRAINS

By this time you have heard about the new COVID strain from Europe. It was first detected in England last week. It prompted many travel bans from Europe to the US The new strain can spread more quickly and responsible for 60 % of new infections. Be rest assured , it is in the United States already and probably in New York City and other major cities. Another new strain has been reported in S. Africa.

I often worry why has the virus mutated already It is only one year since the first reported case in China in December 2019. This bothers me and boggles my mind. Viruses do not mutate this quickly…unless possibly changed in a lab ? I would like to find out more about the WUHAN laboratory and their studying of corona virus in bats.

Hospitals are filling up . The lack of ICU beds can be a dire situation. Today there was a question that stated if there are lack of beds, ventilators, and staff— decisions might have to made by physicians and health care workers who is more stable to live.

ICU patients can be COVID patients but others with severe disease and not COVID. January 2021 will be a tough month for COVID cases and deaths. We do not even know if the vaccine will be effective against the new strains. We do not know if there will be enough of vaccines for the second shot ?

More to come

Until tomorrow…

DECEMBER 28, 2020 THREATS FACING BEES

As the year comes to a close we ALL have had a tough year. A political election year and a pandemic . What we need to think about in the next year is saving our planet. One of the causes I have strived to help is our bees. The wild bee face a variety of external threats—many caused by man. The years of intensive farming , changing urban habitats and the wide spread use of pesticides. Pesticides need to be stopped.

It is not only the honeybee that has declining populations. The bumblebee - nearly one of four of the 68 species face extinction. Rudolf Steiner in 1920 on his Lectures on Honeybees predicted that in 100 years bees would be gone. He is not far off from that statement

In 1962 — 58 years ago ,Rachel Carson in her book Silent Spring warned the world about the devastating impact of pesticides on the environment. What have we done ? I can tell you this - WE haven’t done enough. DDT has been responsible for the wiping out the wildlife of most bees and birds. It was banned in 1972 due to human cancer risk and environmental hazards. More needs to be done. You can help

Stop using pesticides in your own gardens. Stop buying pesticides. Boycott the sale of pesticides. In the 1990’s new pesticides, neonictinoids were introduced and still used today. These pesticides attack the insects nervous system on contact or ingestion. It has been responsible for Colony Collapse Disorder in the United States and in Europe

Help me in the fight to save bees whom are Living on the Edge Support your local beekeeper. Support the American Apitherapy Society ( for which I am vice president) www.apitherapy.org

Until tomorrow…