Leaky Gut Syndrome (LGS)

LGS is a condition where large spaces can develop between the cells of the gut wall creating excessive permeability. Undesirable agents can then enter the bloodstream such as disease-causing bacteria (salmonella etc), yeasts (Candida albicans), large allergenic food molecules, toxins and chemicals (eg. food additives).

Malabsorption can occur at the same time. Many nutrients have to be ‘actively transported’ across the gut wall. These active carrying sites can be damaged leading to nutritional deficiency.

LGS is associated with the following:

•   food allergies (eczema, asthma, migraine)

•   chronic fatigue syndrome

•   auto-immune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Multiple Sclerosis)

•   inflammatory joint disease (arthritis)

•   Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

•   Coeliac Disease - Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Septicaemia

Diet and lifestyle

Our modern lifestyle is to blame for this condition. A diet low in fibre, high in sugar, alcohol and caffeine will aggravate the condition. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID5) like aspirin and ibuprofen can irritate and damage the gut wall. Antibiotics which wipe out friendly gut bacteria allow yeasts (Candidiasis) and disease-causing bacteria to flourish. These micro-organisms damage the gut wall and can enter the blood stream causing disease. To help the healing programme deal with any fungal overgrowth and identify and eliminate food or environmental allergies.

Useful supplements

U     Vitamin A 7,500iu daily

U     Fructo-oligosaccharide 5-10 grams (1-2 tsp) daily - promotes beneficial flora which can nourish and heal the gut wall

•    L-glutamine 1-3 grams daily - food source for cells of upper gastro-intestine tract, so helps healing

•    Flax Seed Oil 1-2 grams daily -anti-inflammatory properties

U     Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed may increase the health of the gut wall

Other supplements to consider

•    Magnesium 300-450mg daily

•    Vitamin E 400iu daily - has antioxidant and healing properties

Short-term memory loss is often a sign of advancing age. Women going through the menopause may also experience periods of forgetfulness and difficulties in concentrating.

Diet and lifestyle

Try to follow a wholefood diet with the emphasis on fresh fruit and vegetables.

Useful supplements To increase blood flow to the brain

•    Ginkgo biloba 120mg extract daily - choose a standardised extract (containing 24% Flavonglycosides)

•    Lecithin - 2 tablespoons of a granular formula - a good source of phosphatidyl choline

        top

This common condition can be extremely painful and although they usually clear in 7-10 days, they may reoccur.

No single factor is known to be the cause but food allergies, particularly to gluten (a protein in wheat and flour) is one possibility, as is stress.

Nutrient deficiencies are also implicated since almost 50% of sufferers in one trial were found to have iron, folate or vitamin B12 deficiencies. When these deficiencies were corrected, the incidence of ulcers was reduced.

Useful supplements

U    Zinc - 15mg daily

•    A good multivitamin containing iron and high levels of B vitamins

U    Vitamin C - 1-2 grams daily

U    Co-Enzyme Q10 - 30mg daily

Other supplements to consider

U    Goldenseal, equivalent to 3-4 grams of dried root powder

U    Echinacea pururea 200mg extract twice daily to boost your immune system

This debilitating disease is far too complex to discuss in detail here and there are several excellent books on the subject. Many experts now believe that diet and lifestyle changes may have a significant impact on the progression of the illness. A reduction in saturated fat intake and the use of essential fatty acids, as found in starflower (borage) oil and fish oils, may be of help. Meat intake should be reduced and the anti-oxidant nutrients vitamin E and selenium are sometimes recommended. A natural approach to treating this disease will cause no harm and may be of benefit.

Useful supplements

U High potency Starflower Oil - 1-3 grams daily

•    Vitamin B-complex formula - B vitamins are paramount in nerve health, especially B12

U    A high potency broad spectrum multivitamin and mineral complex

U    Vitamin C - 1 gram daily

U    Vitamin E - 400iu daily

Other supplements to consider

•    Ginkgo biloba 120mg extract - acts as an antioxidant and improves blood flow to the nervous system

top

M.E.

(Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)

Myalgic encephalomyelitis, or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition which can be associated with a lengthy list of symptoms the most common of which are fatigue, muscle pain, depression, headaches and mental confusion. A milder form of this condition is called post viral fatigue syndrome although this usually subsides within a year. CFS, however, seems to have no definite end, only periods of remission. The exact cause of the collection of symptoms associated with this condition is not yet fully understood although it seems likely that viral infections or stress precipitate the illness.

Diet and lifestyle

Rest is essential, a common mistake is to feel better and then relapse when normal activity is resumed. A healthy diet high in vitamins and minerals is essential. As allergies, candida (yeast overgrowth) and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar level) can feature strongly in this condition, it is important to avoid foods containing yeast, sugar, artificial additives or chemicals as well as tea, coffee and alcohol.

As there are so many different symptoms and therefore requirements for this condition, the following supplements are recommended for the immune system but more specific treatment dependent on symptoms may be necessary.

Useful supplements 

*      Magnesium 300-450mg for fatigue and muscle spasms

*      Vitamin B Complex - daily, to aid in energy production

•    Co-Enzyme Q10 - 30mg daily - the biochemical spark involved in energy release

*      A broad spectrum multivitamin with vitamin A 800mg, vitamin E lOOiu, selenium 200~ig and zinc 15mg

*      Echinacea purpurea - 200-400mg extract daily for 2-3 week periods to help support the body’s immune system (which is often compromised in CFS sufferers leaving them vulnerable to infections)

Other supplements to consider

 *      Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed and bilberry extract

*      Siberian Ginseng - 100mg extract daily

Osteoporosis, or brittle bones, is caused by the slow loss of bone density and is primarily a disease of the elderly. The minerals, especially calcium, in bones is not fixed but in constant flux. Osteoporosis occurs when more calcium is mobilised from the bones than is subsequently laid down and the bones start to become porous. This slow but steady process generally starts at the age of about 50, particularly in women, and often goes unnoticed until a sudden break in a bone occurs.

Diet and lifestyle

There is some evidence that smoking increases the risk of osteoporosis as does excessive coffee and alcohol. Physical exercise can prevent bone loss but it must be “load bearing” (walking, tennis etc) so the bones are flexed which encourages calcium to be laid down. Vegetarians have a lower incidence of osteoporosis, perhaps because the diet is lower in protein, since high protein diets can cause calcium excretion.

Useful supplements

*      Calcium 1000mg and Magnesium 500mg in a 2:1 ratio. Boron appears to reduce Calcium and Magnesium loss from the body A multivitamin incorporating good levels of vitamin D to aid calcium metabolism, plus zinc, copper and manganese

*      Vitamin C - 1-3 grams daily - encourages healthy bone ‘matrix’ production

     top

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

This widespread problem in the western world is actually quite uncommon in more primitive societies, and this suggests that diet and lifestyle play a large part in the problem.

PMS affects one in three menstruating women and the often ill-defined symptoms can be severely debilitating. Treatment of these problems using nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes can produce excellent results.

Diet and lifestyle

Consumption of refined carbohydrates (sweet foods and white flour) should be restricted and a high fibre diet containing plenty of vegetables and fruit should be eaten. A well-planned exercise programme can also be of benefit.

Useful supplements

PMS symptoms can be categorised into the four groups listed below:

Fluid Retention - Resulting in weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness and swollen extremities (hands, fingers).

•    Vitex agnus castus 100mg extract daily

•    Starflower 1000mg or Evening Primrose Oil 2000mg daily

•    Magnesium 300-450mg daily

•    Broad spectrum multivitamin containing the B Complex vitamins

*      Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed and bilberries are highly anti-inflammatory — a property that helps to reduce fluid retention by strengthening minor blood vessels to reduce leakiness. If you think you have fluid retention, please phone 01892 554346 for a FREE copy of our booklet “Fresh thinking on tackling fluid retention — naturally”.

Anxiety - Symptoms include nervous tension, mood swings and irritability

•    Vitex agnus castus 100mg extract daily

•    Broad spectrum multivitamin containing the B Complex vitamins daily

•    Valerian 400mg extract daily

Food Cravings - Can lead to headaches, cravings for sweet foods, fatigue, dizziness and fainting

•    Broad spectrum multivitamin containing the B Complex vitamins daily

* Chromium GTF 200pg daily

*      Magnesium 300mg daily

Depression - Often associated with forgetfulness, insomnia & confusion

•    St John’s Wort - providing 1000mcg hypericin daily

•    Broad spectrum multivitamin containing the B Complex vitamins

•    Magnesium 300mg daily

•    Black cohosh 250mg extract daily

top

Prostate Enlargement

Prostate problems are common in men over 50 years old and the most common condition is called benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate gland enlarges, constricting the urethra and making urination difficult. Surgery may be needed to correct the problem but increasingly, nutrition is being used as a first line of attack. If prostate problems start to occur it is essential that you first consult a doctor in case prostate cancer is the cause, before trying dietary supplements.

Diet and lifestyle

Alcohol, smoking and caffeine are all best avoided as these just add to the burden of detoxification on the body. The diet should be low in saturated fat eg. red meat, full-fat dairy foods, pastry, cakes, biscuits and hard fats. Sugar is best avoided. A wholefood diet is best. Ensure a good supply of essential fatty acids (oily fish, seeds and nuts). Eat ample raw fruit and vegetables, (especially tomatoes, watermelon and guava) which help eliminate excess hormones and toxins.

Useful supplements

Zinc 15mg - a vital mineral for prostate health

Fish Oils - 1-2 grams may help to prevent inflammation and swelling caused by the enlarged prostate gland

Saw Palmetto - this herb may reduce inflammation, swelling and slow down prostate growth. Clinical trials have shown 160mg of Saw Palmetto berry extract twice daily to be effective

        Anti-oxidant dense multivitamin nutrients (vitamin C, E, natural beta-carotene and selenium) -prevent potential damage by free radicals produced in inflammation

Other supplements to consider

Evening Primrose Oil - 1-2 grams daily

Psoriasis

This common skin disorder is a recurring disease where the skin erupts into red circular patches, covered with dry scales. Psoriasis is thought to be caused by a number of factors including poor fat digestion, liver dysfunction (often from alcohol consumption), bowel problems and stress.

Diet and lifestyle

If stress is a cause then the stressor should be removed. Bowel problems may need to be sorted out and often a high fibre diet including a lot of fresh fruit may help to achieve this. Once bowel health is achieved, a great deal of pressure will be taken off the liver, whose job it is to detoxify the blood of the toxins produced in the bowel that are absorbed into the blood. Sunlight has also been found to be beneficial.

Useful supplements

*      Milk Thistle Seed Extract (Silymarin) 100mg Extract daily -this herb can help to correct liver problems

*      Vitamins A, C and the B complex vitamins are needed for skin health

*      Zinc 15mg daily

•    Flax Seed Oil - 1-3 grams daily - contains Omega 3 essential fatty acids required for skin health

•    Biotin - 1mg daily, thought to aid regeneration of cells

Rosacea

Most common in middle aged adults, acne rosacea appears as a blush or redness on the nose, cheeks and chin. There is a dilation of the capillaries, pimples and an overgrowth of tissue which can lead to rhinophyma (rum nose), where the nose can become bulbous. Many patients with rosacea are teetotal, so excess alcohol alone cannot be blamed. Reduced gastric output is often implicated, so hydrochloric acid and pancreatic enzymes are often helpful. Worry and stress can decrease gastric secretion. The B complex has been found to be helpful, especially riboflavin (B2).

Diet and lifestyle

Foods which dilate the capillaries should be avoided such as coffee, tea, chocolate, alcohol, spices.

Useful supplements

*   Betaine Hydrochloride - 300mg - one to three times daily. Needed to correct low gastric acidity

*   Digestive Enzyme Formula - with each meal. To replace deficient digestive enzymes

*   Vitamin B complex formula - anti-stress vitamins, needed to manufacture digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid

*   Zinc - 15mg daily - to aid healing and support the immune system

*   Goldenseal - equivalent to 3-4 grams of dried root powder daily

  top

Shingles (herpes zoster) is an infection caused by a virus of the nerve endings in the skin. The condition is characterised by blisters on the skin and severe pain along the nerve involved. The blisters commonly occur on the chest or abdomen, although they can occur on the face around the eyes. Shingles can reoccur during periods of stress, anxiety or as a result of emotional upset.

Diet and lifestyle

Although there are no specific dietary recommendations for shingles, it makes sense to follow a whole - food

high fibre diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Learn to relax and avoid undue stress.

Useful supplements

For the healthy functioning of nerves and the immune system

*   L-Lysine - 500mg daily - inhibits the growth of viruses

*     B complex vitamins - a high potency B complex containing thiamin and B12 can be helpful.

*   Vitamin E - 200iu daily. Modern studies shown that vitamin E is essential for healthy nerve function and healing.

* Vitamin C - 1-3 grams daily - enhances immune function and has extensive anti-viral activity

Other supplements to consider

*   Echinacea purpurea - 200-400mg extract daily - has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties

*   Vitamin A - 7,5OOiu daily

*   St John’s Wort - containing 1000mcg hypericin daily for its antiviral activity

*     Siberian Ginseng - 100mg extract daily to support the immune system

Whole books are written on skin problems and we can only make a few very general comments here. The skin should be considered as any other organ, and indeed, it is the biggest we have. Lifestyle and nutrition affect the health of the skin to an enormous degree and in the next few years we will see more focus on caring for the skin from inside with nutrition rather than from outside with creams and lotions.

Wrinkles: Harmful free radicals are a major cause of wrinkles and smoking is the biggest producer of free radicals.

     top

Many of us at some point in our life will consider being on a weight loss programme, whether it is prompted by illness, vanity or the need to encourage optimum health. Whatever the reason, the only way to lose weight is to eat fewer calories than your body needs, so that the body’s fat stores provide the shortfall. As your body burns its fat, it uses large amounts of vitamins and minerals to control the biochemical reactions involved. However, if you are eating less, you are consuming less of these essential nutrients and this is why the Department of Health recognises slimmers as a group ‘at risk’ of having micro nutrient deficiencies.

Diet and lifestyle

Try to increase your exercise levels to help burn off additional calories.

Useful supplements

•   Broad spectrum multivitamin formula - to ensure you have an intake of the nutrients required daily

•   Flax Seed Oil - 1-3 grams daily. These Omega 3 oils are needed by the body for correct metabolism

•   A magnesium-dense multi mineral providing at least 300mg magnesium, plus chromium and copper, to help reduce sugar cravings

   top

This term is usually applied to emotional pressure on an individual rather than a physical pressure. However, often the two overlap as in illness, pregnancy or physical tiredness. In response to stress such as fear, hate, sadness and anxiety, our adrenal glands release hormones that prime our body for action by raising blood pressure and heart rate. Since we can rarely release this pent up energy in “fight or flight’, our systems suffer from ulcers, asthma, atherosclerosis, fatigue and insomnia.

 Diet and lifestyle

Strong emotions ruin our appetite. Anxiety and worry must be removed by changing our lives or by learning to accept the stress-forming situation. Regular exercise will help in many situations and a good wholesome diet is essential to ensure the digestive system, in particular, is kept healthy.

Useful supplements

*   Magnesium 300 - 450mg daily - to calm the nerves and aid restful sleep

*     Vitamin B Complex - the B vitamins are used up by stress. Many people find a good B complex can relax them

*     Valerian - 400mg extract daily - to aid relaxation

*     High Potency Multi - to offset dietary imbalance

*   Vitamin C 1-2 grams daily - since the adrenal glands use this vitamin up

 Other supplements to consider

*     St John’s Wort - providing 1000mcg Hypericin daily

Stomach Ulcers -see Stress

All ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract must be treated by a doctor who will use drugs that will limit the level of gastric acid, the main causative factor.

Diet and lifestyle

There is plenty of evidence that stress plays a large part in the development of ulcers and therefore the cause of the stress should be removed if possible. Also smoking, alcohol, aspirin and coffee should be limited. A high fibre diet fed to recently healed patients reduced the recurrence by 50%.

Useful supplements

*     A general multivitamin and mineral containing vitamins C, E beta carotene, and the mineral zinc may help in the healing process

•   Aloe Vera - studies show this herb may be relevant in treating ulcers

•    Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed and bilberry for its anti-inflammatory effects

•   Valerian - 400mg extract daily to aid relaxation

top

Ultraviolet light causes the production of free radicals (highly reactive chemicals) in the skin and these damage the surrounding tissues.

Free radicals can be controlled with the anti-oxidant nutrients vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and selenium.

Lifestyle

It is definitely best to avoid any risk of even mild sunburn..There is evidence that the occasional “accident” increases the risk of melanomic (cancer) more than constant, careful exposure. Dress up well, wear a hat, and use a high protection sunblock.

Useful supplements

No supplement will protect from damage completely. The following may help to reduce the damage, although “after�sun” doses are probably too late.

*          Vitamin E - 400iu daily

*      Beta - carotene - 15mg daily

•       Vitamin C - I gram daily

•       Selenium – 200mcg daily

•       Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed and bilberry for its anti-inflammatory effects

(Bursitis, Tennis Elbow, Frozen Shoulder)

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon and bursitis is the inflammation of the fluid filled sac that surrounds a joint. Both of these conditions usually result from either a sudden or repetitive strain or an infection. Treatment involves removing the cause of the injury and clearing up an infection. Calcium deposits sometimes build up and surgery may be necessary to remove these.

Useful supplements

*      Vitamin C 1-2 grams daily - for its role in collagen formation

*   Vitamin E 200iu and Beta-carotene 15mg daily - for their anti-oxidant activity

*      Anthocyanidins 160-320mg daily - eg. grapeseed and bilberry for its mild anti-inflammatory effects

    top

Tinnitus or ringing in the ears is an extremely common problem with many different causes. It is a condition which becomes more widespread after the age of 40, and can be regarded as a natural hazard of modern life and ageing. As yet, there is no cure for tinnitus, as it is not the symptom of any single disorder but is likely to be due to a number of factors eg. excessive exposure to loud sounds, food allergies and stress.

 Diet and lifestyle

There is little evidence to suggest that diet can influence tinnitus. If stress is a contributory factor, take steps to relax and unwind.

 Useful supplements

*      Ginkgo biloba - 120mg extract daily - this herb has been shown in one trial to help reduce tinnitus and in some people, it caused the ringing to completely disappear. The benefits occurred within 70 days but the success rate is greatly reduced if the ringing has been constant for more than a year.

Varicose Veins

Up to 50% of adults are affected by enlarged uncomfortable veins which are generally just below the skin surface of the legs. Veins are thin-walled vessels that, if put under too much pressure and unsupported by surrounding tissues, will gradually become stretched. Factors contributing to the problem include standing for long hours, constipation, heavy lifting and pregnancy.

Diet and lifestyle

A high fibre diet is essential to avoid constipation and straining. Varicose veins are rare in populations who have high fibre intakes. Avoid standing for long periods if possible and exercise such as walking and cycling can help. When resting your legs should be uncrossed and put up.

Useful supplements

• Horse Chestnut seed extract -providing 50-100mg of the active ingredient aescin

• An antioxidant-rich multivitamin

• Vitamin C with bioflavonoids 1-2 grams - for building collagen

• Vitamin F 400iu daily - may help to improve circulation and has healing properties

Other supplements to consider

Butcher’s Broom extract - may tone the veins.

   top