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Tag: Asthma - Organic Lifestyle Magazine Tag: Asthma - Organic Lifestyle Magazine

More Than 40% of Older Millennials Have At Least One Chronic Health Condition, Data Suggests

A new poll by CNBC suggests 44% of older millennials (people born between 1981 and 1988) have at least one chronic health condition.

Migraines, depression, and asthma were the most common conditions with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure closely following.

The poll found older millennials had a higher rate of chronic illness compared to the general public, including the age group older than them.

Among the survey group, cancer was almost as common among older millennials as it was in the general population. About four percent of the 33- to 40-year-olds said they’d been diagnosed with cancer, compared to five percent of the overall survey group. 

Nearly half of older millennials have at least one chronic health condition such as depression, high blood pressure or asthma by the time they turn 40, poll suggests

Obesity is an increasing problem for Americans of all ages but even more so for the younger population. Only 10% of the 4,000 survey respondents reported being obese, which is lower than the general population, with an obesity rate of 13%. Obesity can lead to a higher likelihood of chronic health conditions that millennials are more likely to suffer from.

Related:



Air Pollution Listed As Official Cause Of Death for the First Time

In the UK, A nine-year-old girl, Ella Kissi-Debrah, died in 2013 from an asthma attack that resulted in respiratory failure. It was later discovered by Stephen Holgate that the levels of pollution near her home were illegal.

PHOTOGRAPH: KEVIN SCHAFER/GETTY IMAGES

Air pollution has officially been labeled as a cause of death with the coroner ruling that it “made a material contribution” to her death.

“Ella died of asthma contributed to by exposure to excessive air pollution. The whole of Ella’s life was lived in close proximity to highly polluting roads. I have no difficulty in concluding that her personal exposure to nitrogen dioxide and PM was very high.”

Barlow – Air pollution listed as an official cause of death in the UK for the first time

The World Health Organization has estimated that nearly 7 million people are killed by air pollution each year. Children who live in poorer areas are more susceptible to asthma.

The U.K has announced that it would end the sale of gas and diesel cars 10 years earlier than planned, by the year 2030. Boris Johnson, Prime Minister, plans to have the country reach zero emissions by 2035.




Household Cleaners May Damage Lungs Like Pack-a-Day Smoking Habit, According to New Study

Scientists at Norway’s University of Bergen found that using toxic cleaning products has as much of an impact on health as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day.

The study tracked 6,000 people, with an average age of 34 at the time of enrollment in the study, who used the cleaning products over a period of two decades, according to the research published in the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.Lung function declined in women who regularly used cleaning products. They, such as those who worked as cleaners, was equivalent over the period to those with a 20-cigarette daily smoking habit.

Related: How to Clean Your Floors with Homemade Non-toxic Cleaners Instead of Store Bought Chemicals

While the short-term effects of cleaning chemicals on asthma are becoming increasingly well documented, we lack knowledge of the long-term impact. We feared that such chemicals, by steadily causing a little damage to the airways day after day, year after year, might accelerate the rate of lung function decline that occurs with age.” – Dr. Cecile Svanes, professor at the University of Bergen in Norway, senior author of the study.

Must Read: How To Heal Your Gut

The study measured lung function by testing the amount of air the subjects could forcefully breathe out. They examined the results alongside a questionnaire where participants were asked about they use cleaning products. The study found that women who used the cleaning products regularly have decreased lung capacity and an increased rate of asthma. The products seemed to affect women more than men, though the scientists noted that the number of male participants was limited. The mode of chemical cleaner—be it spray or other liquid—was not statistically relevant, only that a chemical cleaner was used.

When you think of inhaling small particles from cleaning agents that are meant for cleaning the floor and not your lungs, maybe it is not so surprising after all.” – Øistein Svanes, a doctoral student.

Recommended Reading:



Adrenal Compromise: The Hidden Cause of Chronic Health Conditions

That old saying, “Big things come in small packages,” can certainly refer to the adrenals, the endocrine glands located on top of the kidneys. These tiny powerhouses are responsible for a myriad of functions within the body, including the production of hormones, some of which are essential for survival. The adrenals are well-known for their function in how the body responds to stress, but their lesser known functions are also involved in the regulation of blood pressure, the secretion of sex hormones, and immune response. Understanding a little about how the adrenals work can bring a greater understanding of why these tiny glands can be at the root of seemingly unrelated health conditions such as allergies, asthma, and reproductive imbalances.

Each adrenal gland has two distinct parts, each responsible for secreting specific hormones vital to life or wellbeing. The cortex comprises the outer portion of the gland and produces the hormones hydrocortisone (cortisol), corticosterone, aldosterone, and small amounts of sex hormones. Cortisol plays a critical role in metabolism, cardiovascular function, and blood pressure while its sidekick corticosterone is the VIP hormone that is responsible for healthy immune response and inhibiting inflammation. Aldosterone handles the body’s levels of water and sodium; thus, it is critical for the minute-to-minute regulation of blood pressure. Unlike the adrenal cortex, the medulla or inner portion of the adrenal gland secretes the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. We can live without them, but when they are disrupted or impaired, quality of life and well-being are compromised, for they play an important role in how we handle life’s stresses and can affect blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure.

The Body’s Foundation for Good Health and Homeostasis

In conventional medicine, serious disorders including Addison’s Disease, Cushing’s Syndrome, and other diseases of the adrenal cortex are most readily recognized and treated, but imbalances within both the cortex and medulla can slip between the cracks. From the holistic view of things, both portions of the adrenal glands and all of their hormones are taken into account in order to get a bigger picture of what is going on in the body when it comes to depression, anxiety disorders, female hormone imbalance (including PMS), and menopausal havoc. The superficial symptoms of adrenal-rooted illnesses are too often treated with pharmaceutical medications, so the primary cause is never addressed, and a lifetime of suffering can result.

The average individual in our modern times steps on an ambition-fueled treadmill that begins in childhood. Gone are the days when our bodies lived in harmony with the natural cycles of seasons and light. Modern convenience and technological wonders have enabled us to burn the candle at both ends, and despite the fact that most of us claim to enjoy it, our core ability to fight disease has been severely compromised. Epidemic conditions such as chronic allergies, food and environmental sensitivity, asthma, diabetes, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia were considered rare just a few decades ago. Allopathic and alternative medicine offer many approaches, but according to cutting-edge, holistic-minded medical doctors, resolution will be nowhere in sight as long as the role of adrenal function is ignored.

Adrenal imbalance can manifest as, or play a role in, low immunity, insomnia, infertility, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, pain syndromes, PTSD, eating disorders, and failure to recover from or conquer addiction. The adrenals may be small and misunderstood, but in essence, there is no quality of life if they are not functioning properly. We must provide them adequate nutrition along with any needed lifestyle changes, supplements, and alternative modalities such as bodywork and clinical aromatherapy. Prolonged physical, mental, and/or emotional stress, lack of rest, poor diet, antibiotics, and continual stimulation of the nervous system via electronics contribute to adrenal compromise. Some people are born with adrenal weakness while others acquire it through life circumstances. Most of us, no matter how health-conscious, are susceptible, but there are many ways we can help the body to restore core vitality and balance. Here are some wonderful ways:

Herbal Allies for Adrenal Support

Due to medication contraindications and other factors, please consult your health care practitioner before taking herbal supplements.

There are many herbal formulas on the market that are purported to boost energy by stimulating the adrenals, but nothing could be more detrimental to compromised adrenal function. Herbs that nourish the glands and support the parasympathetic nervous system can be highly beneficial for regaining the balance of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (hpa).

American White Ginseng

American white ginseng is an excellent herb to support the body’s endocrine system during times of stress. It also promotes healthy immunity and resilience after illness, as it provides nourishment to the adrenals and sex glands. Considered gentler than Korean ginseng, American white is recommended for adrenal exhaustion and non-diabetic hypoglycemia.

Korean Ginseng

Korean ginseng is an age-old herb that is considered a tonic for the body and an elixir for longevity. It is excellent for improved stamina and balanced hormones, and it is recommended for both men and women.

Tip: Be sure your source of Korean ginseng is authentic. If the product seems inexpensive, its integrity is usually compromised.

Damiana

Fragrant and calming, damiana is nourishing to the adrenals and the reproductive system. It is excellent for frayed nerves, low libido, menopausal and perimenopausal discomfort, and hormonal-based anxiety.

Tip: Damiana can be combined with licorice for adrenal support.

White Willow Bark

White Willow Bark is an excellent herb for pain reduction and overall adrenal support. It works best when brewed into a tea.

Caution: Do not use white willow bark is you are allergic to aspirin. Check with your doctor if you are taking blood thinners.

Licorice Root

This sweet root supports the adrenal cortex, which in turn, helps the body regulate and utilize cortisol. It also helps the body’s production of DHEA, a hormone that helps the body respond to stress. It is an excellent herb for the nourishment of tired adrenal glands, especially when combined with other herbs such as ginsengs, juniper berries, or damiana. It can also be very useful for asthmatic or allergic conditions and is excellent for lung support.

Caution: Avoid licorice if you have high blood pressure and check with your physician if you are taking blood pressure medicine.

Juniper Berries

These small, purple-black berries from the evergreen shrub support adrenal function, boost immune response and help the organs eliminate toxins. They work especially well when combined with damiana for adrenal health.

Maca

Maca root balances the endocrine system and is especially beneficial to the adrenals and reproductive system. It is wonderful when added to a morning health shake.

Kava Kava

Kava kava root stimulates the production of various neurotransmitters, chemicals that work hand in hand with hormones in the body. It is an excellent herb for anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, mental agitation, and adrenal function.

Tip: Be sure to purchase kava kava from a reputable source for product quality.

Caution: Do not take with alcohol, medications, or antidepressants. Do not take if you have liver or kidney disease.

Lavender Flowers

Beautifully fragrant lavender helps the body maintain equilibrium and is unsurpassed during times of stress. It helps the body to find balance and is beneficial for adrenal support, blood sugar regulation, neurotransmitter production, and overall nervous system homeostasis. It is helpful for insomnia, low immunity, allergies, and muscle tension.

Tip: Lavender is available in bulk form and can be made into a lovely tea. Be sure to purchase non-sprayed/organic flowers.

Helpful Vitamin Supplements for Adrenal Health

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic Acid, also known as B-5, is essential for adrenal support and is highly useful for illness and addiction recovery, times of stress, and lack of energy. B-5 works hand in hand with other B vitamins, especially biotin.

Vitamin B Complex

B complex is the body’s ally for better adrenal and nervous system health as well as healthy immunity and overall endocrine function.

Tip: Look for a formula that has a balance of all B vitamins in equal ratios (50-100 mg.)

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids

Like B vitamins, vitamin C is crucial in healthy adrenal and immune function. The adrenals use more vitamin C than any other organ and use it to release hormones. During times of stress, vitamin C is used up in the body at an alarming rate.

Essential Oils and Clinical Aromatherapy

Black Spruce Essential Oil

Blue spruce essential oil is recommended during times of prolonged stress because it decreases excessive cortisol, a stress hormone secreted by the adrenals.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the evening before bed. Can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops in Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Balsam Fir Essential Oil

Balsam Fir Essential Oil brings equilibrium to the endocrine and nervous systems. It is an excellent choice after a long work day or stressful conditions.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the morning and evening before bed. Can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops with Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Pine Needle Essential Oil and Pine Bark Essential Oil

Pine needle and pine bark essential oils help the adrenals and nervous system restore core vitality and life force.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily. Can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops in Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Juniper Berry Essential Oil

Juniper Berry Essential Oil is invigorating and nourishing to the adrenals, lungs, and immune system. It is excellent for afternoon slumps and hard-to-get-going mornings.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the morning or early evening. Inhaling this oil will help restore energy. It can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops in Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Geranium Essential Oil

Unsurpassed for adrenal support and female hormone balance, geranium essential oil helps the body find equilibrium and supports immunity. It is excellent for PMS, perimenopause, menopause, and adrenal fatigue during hormonal shifts.

Application: Apply 2-3 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily. It can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops with Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is the go-to essential oil for balancing the body, restoring the nervous system, and endocrine support.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the evening before bed. It can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops with Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense is an overall balancer for the endocrine system that is especially effective for imbalances of the pituitary, adrenals, and nervous system. It is unsurpassed for adrenal exhaustion and related disorders of the nervous system and highly useful for chronic anxiety, panic attacks, certain forms of depression, and insomnia.

Application: Apply 2 drops of undiluted essential oil to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the morning and evening before bed. Can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops with Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Yland ylang regulates adrenaline and balances the body during stress and after a fight-or-flight response. It also supports the female reproductive system.

Application: Apply 2 drops of essential oil undiluted to the soles of the feet daily, preferably in the evening before bed. Can also be added to a bath or foot bath by mixing a few drops with Epsom salt or evaporated sea salt. Place a drop on the hand and inhale for immediate calm to frayed nerves and a racing heart due to anxiety and to regain equilibrium during or after a panic attack. Ylang ylang can also be combined with neroli essential oil for this purpose.

Lifestyle Changes

Unplug

Unplugging from computer screens, devices, phones, television, and overall electronic distraction for periods of time can have a tremendously positive impact on our overall health. Cortisol levels soar when we are engaged in these activities, especially in the evening.

Remove devices from the bedroom; turn off cell phones during meals. Try to eliminate excuses for not taking time away from electronic devices so the body, namely the brain, can have some down time. Only then can the adrenals restore vitality and the nervous system kick into parasympathetic mode- the mode that turns off stress hormones, encourages healthy digestion, and promotes better sleep.

Get More Sleep and Rest

Take a cat nap. Go to bed an hour earlier each night. Close your eyes for ten minutes. Look into adrenal support if you suffer from insomnia. The body only heals during REM sleep, and without it, adrenal function is severely impaired and remains so. All the vitamins, supplements, meditation, yoga, and good food in the world cannot do us much good until the body receives adequate rest and sleep. Shifting priorities is essential.

Avoid Conflict and Agitation

Most adrenal-aware doctors agree that emotional stress is a major factor in adrenal exhaustion, and until we change our responses or eliminate the problem entirely, the adrenals cannot recover. Sometimes choices in our lives must be aligned with our higher good. Self-preservation is not selfishness.

Play and Make Time for Pleasure

Playing and seeking healthy pleasure signal the body to step out of the fight-or-flight stress mode. Enjoyable, non-competitive games, activities, and hobbies contribute to our body’s long-term good health.

Conclusion

The adrenals can determine our quality of life, so it is to our benefit that we remember to take care of these precious glands. If we don’t put our health and emotional needs on the to-do list, the adrenals will certainly be our tough teachers who show us what we need to do to get back in alignment. Life is meant to be more than survival, accomplishment, and getting ahead. Our adrenals remind us that joy, pleasure, rest, and calm are not only the best medicine the doctor can order but our reason for being here. Be well!

For more information check out The Adrenal Fatigue Center.

OLM Recommended Reading:
Sources:
  • Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome by James L. Wilson
  • Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome: Reclaim your Energy and Vitality with Clinically Proven Natural Programs by Michael Lam
  • Chronic Fatigue Unmasked: What You and Your Doctor Should Know About the Adrenal Syndrome, Today’s Most Misunderstood, Mistreated and Ignored Health by Gerald Poesnecker
  • The Edge Effect: Achieve Total Health and Longevity with the Balanced Brain Advantage by Eric R. Braverman
  • Tired of Being Tired: Rescue, Repair, Rejuvenate by Jesse Lynn Hanley
  • Multidimensional Aromatherapy by Marlaina Donato



How I Replaced Medications With Essential Oils

I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in March 2014. Today, 11 months later, my symptoms are virtually gone. Not only are my MS symptoms gone, I am no longer taking medication for the other disease symptoms that I suffered with for more than 30 years, like asthma and migraines. I’m 98% well. I can’t credit essential oils with getting me well, I owe my renewed health to the changes I made in my diet first and foremost. But while getting well, and every now and then once wellness has been achieved, it’s nice to have access to an all natural, side-efect free type, chemical free treatment.

When I Experience Symptoms

I still occassionally experience breakthrough symptoms, especially if I eat something I shouldn’t. Symptoms can also reappear due to stress, environmental triggers, or exposure to toxins. When I do experience symptoms, I have found essential oils work well for me, whether I am experiencing wheezing, muscle cramps, or something else. It’s important to note here that every person is different and the source of his or her symptoms will vary. Oils can only do so much to treat disease. The foundation of health must start with a clean, plant based diet.

I take 5 slow, deep breaths and every symptom of asthma immediately goes away

Trial and error is necessary to discover which oils work for you. Sometimes it takes a while to to find the right oil or combination of oils that will do the trick. It’s crucial to start with quality, therapeutic grade oils. Be sure your essential oils do not contain filler oils, like olive oil, which will dilute the strength and effectiveness of your essential oil. If the oil requires you to dilute it in another oil, you want that option to control the strength and the choice of the carrier oil. If you don’t find relief with an essential oil, try a different oil, a different combination of oils, or another brand.

The Oils That Helped Me

The MS symptom that was the most severe for me (other than the paralysis) was the muscle spasms. They prevented me from sleeping, and we all know how tough life can be when you haven’t sleep for a few days in a row. It’s life altering.

Basil oil first provided me some relief from my leg spasms. Sandlewood and frankincense oil helped as well. After awhile, I found Shillington’s Deep Tissue Repair Oil (a blend of wintergreen, menthol and cayanne oils). I have used this oil for spasms ever since.

I’ve been an asthmatic for as long as I can remember. Now, when I feel my chest get tight or sense a slight wheeze, I no longer reach for my “Puffer” (Proventil rescue inhaler). Now I grab an oil belend called “Breathe”. I put a drop or two into my hands, rub them together (like Mr. Miyagi did in Karate Kid), and place them in front of my face. I take 5 slow, deep breaths and every symptom of asthma immediately goes away. If I feel any allergy symptoms, I put a five drops of lavender, lemon, and pepperment oil in a vegetable capsule and swallow it. I haven’t used my puffer for more than 6 months.

For migraines, I use lavender oil and then add pepermint oil. I also use a blend of frankincense, sandlewood, ylang ylang, and pepermint. This amazing blend is known for for cell regineration and specifically neuron (brain cell) repair. It helps both my MS symptoms (weakness and imbalance) and migraines.

How to Apply Essential Oils Topically

The symptom will determine how you apply the oils. Essential oils can be difused into the air or otherwise inhaled, applied directly to the skin (topically) as well as taken internally. When you apply oils topically, you can either apply them straight (directly to the skin from the bottle) or use a carrier oil. A good rule to follow is if you are trying to apply the oils to a large surface area (back, legs, etc) use a carrier oil first. When I am treating my muscle spasms, I apply organic coconut oil to my leg first. This helps the essential oil spread evenly, and not soak into one spot. Then I drop the essential oil into my hands and spread it on top of the coconut oil. You can “stack” oils, too. Rub one into your skin and then place another one on top of it.

When I feel a migraine coming on I use the oils (lavendar and pepermint) straight, and stack them. I place them directly on the pressure points at the base of my neck. I also place them on my temples, and the skin behind my ears down to my jaw line.

The soles of the feet, wrists, and the space behind the ears down to the jaw line are all great places to put any oil for fast absorbtion. The skin in these areas is thin, so the therapeutic benefit of the oil can quickly absorb into the bloodstream and go to work.

Other Oils I Use

In addition to the oils I’ve already mentioned, I also use oils like melaluca (tea tree), lemon, oregeno, and grapefruit oils daily. Most oils have amazing antiviral, antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

I’ve used melaluca to treat everything from a bacterial vaginal infection to a sore throat to foot odor. Just make sure to dilute this oil well with a carrier oil (coconut or olive oil) if you are applying it topically. Melaluca, like cayenne oil, needs to be diluted well before being placed on the skin (especially in the nether regions). It won’t physically damage your skin, but it can cause a strong burning sensation.

I also use melaluca or lemon oil to clean my house. Put 5 drops in a spray bottle, fill it with water and go to work. Just a note: the oils can clog the spray nozzle. To prevent this just dissolve the oils into some grain alcohol and add the mixture to the water and you are ready to clean. Lemon oil works great for cleaning mirrors.

Oregano oil helps with toothaches and skin infections; grapefruit oil helps reduce the appearance of cellulite (due to its diuretic properties) and it has strong antidepressant properties.

I mix a few drops of grapefruit oil with coconut oil and use this to moisturize my whole body every morning. After I moisturize, I feel uplifted and am ready to face the day. These are some of my favorite uses for essential oils. What are yours?

Shillington’s Deep Tissue Repair Oil – recipe (or click here to buy)

This formula is awesome, and I have found it to be beneficial for arthritis patients, torn ligaments, pulled muscles, and maladjusted vertebrae. Suprisingly, it will sometimes get rid of a headache almost instantly if you put a drop on both of your temples and rub it in. Used in conjuction with the BF&C (below), and you can create miracles of healing in the damaged area.

32 oz. Wintergreen Oil
16 oz. Cold Pressed Organic Virgin Olive Oil
12 oz. Menthol Crystals
8 oz. DMSO
2 cups Arnica Flowers (Dry)
2 cups Calendula (Marigold Flowers)
1 cup Ginger Root
1/2 cup Cayenne (Hottest you can find = Habanero)

Blend on high for 2 minutes and store for two weeks. Add the DMSO after you have pressed the tincture. Do not get this formula near water in any shape or form or your mixture will mold. Also see, How to Make A Tincture.

Shillington’s Bone Flesh and Cartilage – recipe (or click here to buy)

It’s called BF&C (Bone, Flesh and Cartilage) and I recommend using it with my Deep Tissue Repair Oil (above). It is the Dynamic Duo for Broken Bones, Torn Cartilage, and Bruises ETC.

  • 6 parts Comfrey Root
  • 6 parts Oak Bark
  • 3 parts Gravel Root
  • 3 parts Mullein
  • 1 part Lobelia
  • 2 parts Wormwood
  • 3 parts Marshmallow Root
  • 1 parts Skullcap
  • 2 parts Walnut Bark

Remember, when I discuss a “part”, I am always talking about “volume”. If I use another measurement such as cups ETC., I always say so.

Further Reading:
Recommended Supplements:



If You’re Sick, Chances Are, Candida Is the Foundation of Your Illness

The most common fungus to negatively affect humans, Candida albicans, primarily colonizes the skin and the mucosal membranes of the mouth, genitals, and digestive tract. There are also a few other types of Candida that can impact our health as well; all strains respond well to naturopathic treatment.

Conventional medical experts say that from 30-70% of the present population have a benign colonization of this yeast. I would bet any well trained naturopath will tell you that more than 90% of the population host a Candida colonization and most of them are not benign, not in our modern, processed, easy-food society. In addition, I am yet to meet anyone suffering from any illness, who is not dealing with an overabundance of Candida.

When Candida leads to disease, conventional medical belief states that the infection can be localized, invasive, or systemic. Alternative medical belief would argue that a local infection such as a skin infection, vaginitis, or thrush is an indication that the gut, and likely the whole rest of the body, is already overwhelmed. Lending credence to this belief is the fact that the fastest way to kill any type of Candida infection, and insure it does not come right back, revolves around balancing the gut microbes.

The Candida connection with allergies, asthma, and dermatitis has long been accepted. Current research suggests Candida antigens may trigger celiac and Crohn’s disease. Even though these links of Candida to disease are acknowledged, the conventional medical community is hesitant to understand and accept the role of Candida in patients with multiple complaints often labeled as either non-specific autoimmune disease or more often as psychosomatic illness. These symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain, rashes, dysuria, urinary frequency, vaginitis, and more. Nor do they realize Candida is so often the underlying cause for chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, environmental exposure syndrome, and central sensitization syndrome. Candida even effects the brain, and can be the precursor to many different mental illnesses from depression to schizophrenia. In other words, when the immune system goes belly up, Candida is almost always a major factor, if not, one of the few basic causes, though this connection is often overlooked or ignored.

There are more than 200 species of Candida, but less than a dozen affect humans. Candida alternate in form from budding yeast cells called blastospores to hyphae, thread-like filaments that bore through tissue and individual cells. The fact that it can alternate back and forth in form makes it harder for the immune system to respond to it. We are now discovering that it can produce slightly differing hyphae in different parts of the body, again creating a different immune response.

Candida is controlled or eliminated through diet and supplements, but studies have shown it often reoccurs. Since the same studies showed diet was the most important factor in eliminating the overgrowth, it only stands to reason that dietary changes need to be a lifelong commitment. A return to a standard American diet is a return to disease. A healthy diet, though not as restrictive as a diet designed to kill Candida, will help prevent a recurrence.

Candida overgrowth is certainly linked to antibiotic use, but it is also clearly a by-product of our sugar laden, processed, frankenscience American diet. If you are experiencing allergies, depression, slow healing, a weak immune system, dizzy spells, brain fog, insomnia, migraines, or any autoimmune problems such as chemical sensitivities, unexplained fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, or similar symptoms, get the Candida that is in your body under control and know that eating well, eating a truly healthy diet is essential in keeping Candida at bay.

Believe it or not, chances are you eat too much sugar. Even most of us health nuts do. Sugar from fruit is fine when the fruit is whole, but sweet fruit and vegetable juices, agave, honey, brown rice syrup, and any refined sugar feeds Candida. To learn more about Candida and how to fight it, check out How To Kill Candida and Balance Your Inner Ecosystem.

Recommended Supplements:
Further Reading:
Sources:
  •  Stephen Olmstead, MD; Dennis Meiss, PhD; and Janet Ralston,BS, Candida, Fungal-Type Dysbiosis, and Chronic Disease: Exploring the Nature of theYeast Connection, Townsend Letter, June 2012



Natural Remedies for Asthma

An asthma attack can feel like a huge weight is sitting on your chest or like a giant is squeezing the life right out of you. The truth is, asthma can be deadly; a quarter of a million people die from asthma each year.

Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the airways. The bronchial tubes become inflamed and swollen. Then bronchial spasms tighten and compress the airways. The narrower passageways are further compromised by an increase in secretions.

Most asthma sufferers are allergic to foods and/or environmental irritants. Environmental triggers include chemical irritants or industrial particles in the air in the workplace, drug reactions, cigarette smoke, air pollution, animal dander, dust, mites, cockroaches, and more. Many are sensitive to sulfites in food and drink. Respiratory infections such as a cold or bronchitis often can cause an attack. For some, asthma is triggered by exercise.

The first step or natural remedy to treating asthma is to stop ingesting cow’s milk and milk products. Known to increase mucous, cow’s milk is also one of the primary allergens in our Western diet. When milk is removed from the diet, chronic respiratory infections, ear infections, and asthma are often resolved without further treatment.

Vegan, gluten-free diets and rotation diets have also shown good results, but the primary consideration is allergen free and nutrient-dense foods. Eliminate all artificial flavors, coloring, and additives (MSG is a known trigger) and be sure to eat organic to avoid pesticides and fungicides.

Since most asthma sufferers are known to have several allergies, all allergens should be removed from the diet and environment.  Never smoke or allow smoking indoors and follow an elimination diet to see if allergies to other foods are a factor.

Asthma, allergies, and inflammation are all a sign of an unhealthy gut. If you suffer from asthma and any other chronic conditions, please see How To Heal Your Gut.

Asthma sufferers may be deficient in vitamin D—most people are. If don’t you spend enough time in the sun or if you live at a high latitude, chances are you are deficient. Obesity increases the probability of deficiency as does dark skin. Other vitamins known to affect the severity or number of attacks are vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin B6. IN most cases one should take B complex rather than just one of the B vitamins for a long term treatment. And essential fats are…essential. The body needs omega 3’s to stop the inflammatory process.

A healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial and, of course, exercise is a major component of a healthy lifestyle. If your asthma is triggered by exercise, take heart. Andrew Weil, M.D. suggests you find a form of exercise that minimizes your symptoms due to built-in, intermittent breaks (tennis, golf, softball, etc). Along the same lines of thinking, we would recommend interval training as well as exercise that focuses on breathing technique such as Tai Chi and yoga. Dr. Weil suggests you learn to warm up slowly to the point you almost feel the tightness, then stop and stretch. If you are already into your workout, slow down. Revving up the pace and slowing down the pace before asthma strikes can eliminate the need for medication.

Cold air can trigger an attack. Breathe through your nose and cover your face to avoid this problem.

You must learn to breathe correctly, to fully expand your lungs, to exhale and inhale the way nature intended.  Dr. Weir also suggests doing manipulative work such as deep tissue massage like Rolfing to break up the restrictive patterns of nerves and muscles that have developed due to chronic asthma.

Alternative treatments for acute attacks abound. Mullein leaves can be steeped in boiling water. The vapor is inhaled to bring relief as does the mist from eucalyptus oil in a steamer.  Eucalyptus, horehound, lungwort, pleurisy root, and elecampane can all be brewed into a tea in any combination. Green tea is often recommended for its natural theophylline.

Asthma is the result of a toxic, unbalanced body. Remember, the primary cure for asthma is changing your lifestyle. Detox and change your diet. Eat fresh, raw, organic fruits and vegetables. Avoid allergens. And realize that reaping the benefits of this lifestyle change, while immediate in many other aspects, may take months to produce a noticeable change in asthmatic response. But the results will come.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies work much better to control asthma when the diet is clean and breathing is done right. These protocols may be perfect for you if you are wanting to stop using an inhaler or other medication, but take things slowly and be careful.

Ginger

Ginger reduces inflammation along with many other beneficial properties that can help alleviate asthma. Make ginger tea or juice ginger immediately at the onset of symptoms, and do the same for migraines as well. Here’s a recipe:

Enhanced Golden Milk Tea Recipe

This is a new twist on an ancient way of experiencing the benefits of turmeric. Ideally, use all fresh, unadulterated herbs whenever available.

  • 1 cup of warm coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon of freshly grated turmeric with skin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger with skin
  • 1 pinch of black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper

Mix it all up and drink. For the drink to be warm, warm up the coconut milk only, but be careful not to cook the other ingredients. Add them in when the coconut milk is not too hot to drink so as to preserve enzymes and other fragile micronutrients.

Essential Oils

Eucalyptus, frankincense, peppermint, lavender, clove, and thyme oil have all been shown to help with asthma, but eucalyptus oil, in particular, is interesting thanks to eucalyptol, a chemical that breaks up mucus and phlegm. Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to warm water in a hot water pot or a steam inhaler. Lean over and inhale the steam. You can use a towel to catch the steam and breathe more in. This will expand constricted airways and relax lung spasms.

Supplements & Nutrition For Asthma Relief

Raw Apple Cider Vinegar has tons of health benefits, and if you’re prone to asthma (or have a sore throat or a sinus infection), try sipping it. Just sip it throughout the day, and especially if you feel the onset of an attack. It will also help balance the body’s PH which can reduce inflammation. We highly recommend Barrier Organics Root Cider; check out our review here.

Shillington’s Huff and Puff Formula is lobelia and mullein in a base of apple cider vinegar and grain alcohol. Lots of people use this formula instead of an inhaler. It is not only useful during an asthma attack, this formula can help detoxify the lungs, helping them to heal, and function better in the long run, too.

Shillington’s Herbal Snuff – Snorting goldenseal root powder, bayberry bark powder, cayenne pepper powder, and garlic powder will clear out the sinuses and open up the lungs, but it’s not pleasant and, therefore, is not for the faint of heart. But neither is an asthma attack. This snuff also works very well for migraines.

When COQ10 & Vitamin C are taken together, they are a powerful synergistic combination of antioxidants. Vitamin C is involved in the metabolism of histamine, and in studies with asthmatics, vitamin C decreased post-exercise nitric oxide and cysteinyl leukotrienes. There is considerable evidence to support that vitamin C can successfully treat asthma. Studies also show that patients with corticosteroid-dependent bronchial asthma can benefit from COQ10.

As stated, diet is key but anyone suffering from chronic asthma most likely needs to heal their gut as well. Check out the further reading below for more information.

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