APRIL 23, 2024 FOODS THAT ARE BAD FOR YOUR THYROID
The thyroid, a small gland located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and overall health. However, certain foods can negatively impact its functioning, leading to health issues like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain goitrogens, substances that can interfere with thyroid hormone production. When these vegetables are consumed in large amounts, particularly in their raw form, they can lead to the enlargement of the thyroid gland, a condition known as goiter. It’s important to note that these vegetables are also packed with essential nutrients, so they shouldn’t be entirely eliminated from the diet. I always caution my thyroid patients about eating large quantities of cruciferous vegetables. I even have to mention about these when patients are juicing raw greens
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, has been linked to thyroid disorders, particularly in individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Research suggests that gluten can trigger an autoimmune response in susceptible individuals, potentially leading to conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism Any patient with Hashimoto’s should eliminate gluten from their diet to reduce the TPO ( thyroid peroxidase antibodies ) In addition their physician should recommend LDN ( low dose naltrexone) to further decrease the TPO antibodies.
Lastly let’s discuss coffee. Coffee, especially when consumed in large quantities, can interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication. Caffeine has a stimulant effect that can exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia. When taking thyroid medications - it should be done first in the morning and not ingest coffee or food for a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes
Until tomorrow…
APRIL 22, 2024 COPD
What is COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung diseases. It makes it difficult to breathe. There are two main forms of COPD: One is chronic bronchitis, which involves a long-term cough with mucus and the other is emphysema, which involves destruction of the lungs over time. Most people with COPD have a combination of both conditions. The leading cause of COPD is smoking . A person who smokes two packs per day is more likely to develop COPD than someone who smokes one pack per day.
Other risk factors for COPD are exposure to second hand smoke, air pollution and certain gases/fumes in the workplace.
One of the first symptoms is a cough with or without mucous, fatigue, dyspnea (shortness of breath) and many bouts of respiratory infections. Some other symptoms might be wheezing, and trying to catch one's breath.
The most useful test is for the doctor to listen to the lungs with a stethoscope. I do not think that many doctors have time to listen to their patients’ lungs. In the last years I am getting more involved in the physical diagnosis aspect of my patient’s health. I used to sit behind a desk (which I still do) but now I have an examination table in my office to better assess my patient’s health.
The best test for COPD is a lung function test called spirometry. This involves blowing out as hard as possible into a small machine that tests lung capacity. The results can be checked right away, and the test does not involve exercising, drawing blood, or exposure to radiation.
Many Americans die from emphysema from years of smoking. If not emphysema, then lung cancer. One of those individuals was William Griffith Wilson, also known as Bill W He was he founder of AA.
Years ago in the Annals of Internal Medicine (2012;156:105-114) a study was published involving COPD patients and the supplementation of Vitamin D. The supplementation was 100,000 units every 4 weeks which was equivalent to about 3,600 IU/day.
The data concluded that high dose Vitamin D DID NOT decrease the incidence of exacerbations in patients with COPD. Vitamin D supplementation did decrease the exacerbation in patients with severe Vitamin D deficiency. The definition for severe was less than 10. There was a suggestion that high dose Vitamin D may exacerbate COPD in those without a severe deficiency (less than 10)
My conclusion is that the estimated daily dose is not enough. I do not consider 3,600 IU/day to be a high dose. Most of my patients take an average dose of 5,000 or greater. The results in this article are basically what has been written before, but I feel more studies need to be done on much higher doses of Vitamin D. I prefer to use Vitamin D3 as a liquid.
Until tomorrow
APRIL 18, 2024 CONSTIPATION
Constipation can often be an uncomfortable and persistent issue for many individuals. It can stem from various causes, including dietary choices, hypothyroidism, stress, or underlying health conditions There are foods to eat to help with your constipation Here are some examples.
Apples are more than just a tasty snack; they are a powerhouse when it comes to promoting digestive health. Rich in a type of soluble fiber called pectin, apples not only aid in bowel movements but also enhance overall gut health. Pectin helps increase stool bulk, making it easier to pass, and also balances levels of good bacteria in the large intestine.
Beyond the immediate benefits to bowel health, eating apples with their skin further maximizes the fiber intake.
The other is spinach. I feel I didn’t enough spinach as a child. I certainly eat more now in adulthood. Spinach, often hailed for its impressive nutritional profile, is also an effective food choice for combating constipation. High in both fiber and magnesium, spinach helps soften stools and act as a natural muscle relaxant. The combination of these elements ensures smoother and more regular bowel movements, making spinach a staple for anyone looking to enhance digestive health.
The other foods that help are beans, Kefir and of course, Prunes.
Until tomorrow…
APRIL 17, 2024 EYE HEALTH
Good eye health and clear vision are essential to navigating daily life, and the proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in achieving this. There are certain sup0polements and herbs one must take to keep their eyes healthy.
One of the most important vitamins for eyes is Vitamin A is indispensable for vision, particularly in low-light conditions. It is a key component of rhodopsin, a protein in the eyes that allows you to see in dim light. Without adequate Vitamin A, seeing at night becomes more difficult, and one may suffer from night blindness. Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, making it easy to incorporate into any meal
It also plays a crucial role in protecting the cornea and the eye’s surface and is essential for preventing conditions such as dry eyes. However, too little Vitamin A can lead to serious eye issues, including xerophthalmia, a condition that can cause blindness.
Vitamin C is also critical for many diseases. Vitamin C is not just for warding off colds; it’s a powerful antioxidant that combats free radicals in the eye, potentially reducing the risk of cataract formation and macular degeneration. This vitamin is abundant in the watery portions of the eye, such as the aqueous humor, where it helps maintain ocular health. Citrus fruits, berries, and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin C, making it easy to add to your daily diet. I use IV Vitamin C for macular degeneration in helping preventing this disease and supporting the eye in those patients that already have this disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that play a significant role in eye health, particularly in preventing and managing dry eyes. These fats contribute to the visual development and retinal function, with DHA, a type of Omega-3, being a major structural component of the retina. Omega-3s can be found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, providing a variety of options for dietary inclusion.
There are many other supplements for the eyes. I use Dr Grossman web site, www.naturaleyecare.com
Until tomorrow…
APRIL 16, 2024 LOW PROTEIN
I am constantly asking my patient’s to increase their protein in their diet. I see many vegetarians/vegans who need to increase their protein intake Protein is a long chain of amino acids. As we age we need more protein in our diets. You do not have to eat animal protein, but you need protein. About 50-70 % of all protein is found in the muscles. After the age of 30 there is a muscle loss at the rate of 3-5 % every year,
In active individuals , the higher protein intake is associated with a 35 % reduction in the risk of functional decline.
To live a healthy long life you need these three components
drink enough water every day ( half your body weight should be consumed from water)
Get enough sleep About 6 hours of continuous sleep every night
Increase your muscles mass by exercising and increasing your protein intake
You can use a healthy protein shake between meals if you need more protein. Consume nut butters appropriate for your blood type. Have more protein snacks throughout the day
Until tomorrow…