WOMEN:

Did you KNOW that 70% of American women don't get nearly enough VITAMIN D.  Many women take a vitamin D supplement, but here's the problem: most vitamin preparations contain 200-400iu --- you need between 1,500 to 2,oooiu to get the cancer-fighting benefits found in the studies on Vitamin D.  For many patients the blood levels may indicated the need for much much higher doses.  If you are below the level of 50ng/ml then your replacement should be monitored with blood levels at least twice per year. When I am asked how much should I take?? - You take the amount necessary to raise your blood to the healthy level of 50ng/ml.

HEART DISEASE  IS THE BIGGEST KILLER OF WOMEN!!! 

It kills more women than breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer combined.  Here is the scariest part: 64% of women who die suddenly of heart attack or stroke have NO previous symptoms. 

How is this prevented 

• Optimal weight
• Proper diet
• Regular exercise 
• Optimal Hormones levels  
  
  

The Major Female Androgen is Testosterone.  This is secreted by the adrenals and ovaries in women.  Even post menopausally some secretion continues from the ovaries.  Women who have had Hysterectomy with ovarian removal SEE this hormone decline dramaticaly.  In addition to low libido, the clinical presentation of "Female Androgen Insufficiency Syndrome"  is present.  This is "Unexplained Fatigue" and "Decreased" sense of well-being.   Multiple "placebo" controlled studies have demonstrated improved libido with testosterone replacement in women significantly more then placebo.  If you have your lab done to check testosterone look at the Free Testosterone level.  Testosterone needs to be in the range of a 25 year old women.  The lab will report "your" age normal and in some cases depending on age a "0" could be reported normal!!!!!!

Review the statements your Doctor gives you with the evidence.  I frequently have patients tell me "their Doctor said" --

and this is followed by statements on Hormones that are !00% connected to the Horse estrogen "Premarin" and the synthetic Progestin "Provera".  If you Doctor gives you as statement such as "all estrogen causes clot" then ask where did He or She get that from?  In reviewing the medical literature Eight observational studies and Nine randomised controlled studies ORAL estrogen NOT transdermal estrogen increased the risk of clot.    Unfortunately my medical associates need to not mislead patients by false information.

Watch your treatment for prevention and treatment of Osteoporosis - Even a"movie star"  taking about "Boniva"does not make a medical expert.  Apparently September 14, 2010 an "Expert" panel concluded that the use of certain "BISPHOSPHONATE" drugs such as Fosamax, Boniva & Actonel used to treat Osteoporosis can "INCREASE" the risk of specific type of leg fracture.  The panel is now urging the FDA to add warning to alert patients and doctors of the risk. ---------------------------------------------------------------------

 If you are dealing with bone loss - Osteopenia or Osteoporosis think carefully the way you should treat this problem.  The bone is made of Osteoclasts and Osteoblasts.  Everything needs to be done on a natural basis to give the body the tools to make the best in normal bone.   Biphosphates work on one cellular area and apparently, according to the panel report, create brittle bone increasing linear hip fracture. Unfortunately many patients receive Bisphosphate drugs do not have Osteoporosis and this is the ONLY FDA indication for this class of drug.

How do we rebuild our bones???????

 1. The right hormones ----------------------

             *Men = Testosterone

             *Women = Estrogen, Testosterone, Progesterone, DHEA ,

2. The right calcium + magnesium + D3 (corrrect amount) + minerals.

 3.  Correct weight and Exercise --

Monitor your loss OR gain by Bone Density AND Urine NTX

Knowledge is Power -- Educate yourself on what you need - Remember the average Doctor's visit is less then 15 minutes and this is very little time to have your issues addressed and a plan to be developed.  As we age it becomes even more important to read and understand the process of aging and what to do to have good aging.  "Predictors of Good AGING"

• DIET -- What do you put into your BODY
• BMI -- Body Mass Index -- YOUR WEIGHT -
• DHEA Sulfate - levels - one of our foundational Hormones
  

TESTOSTERONE FOR MEN:

Here are the numbers - if you have not had your level check - insist your Doctor orders your testosterone level.

• 20 YEAR OLD MALE = around 1,000ngs per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 30 YEAR OLD MALE = around 900ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 4o YEAR OLD MALE = around 800ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 50 YEAR OLD MALE = around 700ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 60 YEAR OLD MALE = around 500ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 70 YEAR OLD MALE = around 400ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 80 YEAR OLD MALE = around 300ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)
• 90 YEAR OLD MALE = around 200ng per deciliter in blood (ng/dl)

When your Doctor tells you, "Your Testosterone level is normal" Ask him or her "Is my level that of a 20-30 year old?" If he doesn't know or insists your "OK" for anything under the optimal 20-30 year old - change Doctors. 

 IF YOU DON'T KEEP YOUR TESTOSTERONE LEVELS AT THE OPTIMAL RANGES OF A 20-30 YEAR OLD -- ALL THE DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH LOW TESTOSTERONE WILL START TO HAPPEN!!!!

Men don't notice the issues of Testosterone decline as much as women notice their body changes.  Usually when the sexual function becomes an issue Men will be interested in looking at what is going on with their Hormones.  But in reality, the evidence of decline starts much earlier.  As men turn into those cantankerous "old guys" and start their belly fat, fall asleep after dinner and have no motivation to enjoy the things they used to. It is a Man's testosterone that is usually the cause.  Male andropause typically begins for men at age 40 wih testosterone beginning its decline.  Men will have their mood, memory, thinking and most of all their general health affected.  One of the greatest medical treatments Cardiologists could do would be to aggressively treat declining testosterone levels as aggressively as they write for Crestor and Lipitor.  Testosterone is the greatest Heart protector for the aging male. 

Women will ask, "What happened to my flat belly?"

It is very common to see increased body fat, loss of muscle tone, and weight gain around your middle during menopause.  The fall of progesterone - and estrogen will increase a process of : 

--Rise in cortisol  ---- Lack of sleep ---- fatigue ---- decrease in exercise - increase in hunger to combat fatigue - more quick junk food to stay alert.  All of this cascade will increase the abdominal fat and raise the risk of Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease.  The good news - Giving women Bio-identical hormones as they start this process -- Don't wait till you are fully menopausal --- will help to reverse and correct this picture. 

Many women need to be started on Bio-identical Progesterone in their "30's", this will balance their estrogen and "nip" this cascade of problems before it is causing such terrible symptoms.

Women in their "30's" may already be experiencing some of the signs of menopause.  A loss of progesterone can make you cracky and moody and increase the effects of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).  By the time she hits 50 the effects of estrogen loss begin--

• Attention Deficiencies
• Bone Weakness
• Vaginal Dryness
• Failure to ovulate and More progesterone deficiences
• Hair loss
• Hot flashes
• Loss of Libido
• Mood Swings
• Abdominal weight gain

These changes do not happen from one day to the next they are slowly occuring over a 10-15 year time span.

There is NO limit for good sex!!  Obviously we need to like the person we are with, but assuming that is the case, men and women can enjoy good sex for their lifetime.  I see many divorces which are connected to sexual incompatibility.  Simply speaking, men maintaining their desire and function much longer then their partners who are experiencing the changes of perimenopause and menopause.  Women who have had great increases in their desire and ability to want and enjoy sex, once hormones are optimal and lifestyles have changed. Once a women is on DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, Testosterone, and Human growth hormone, their partners are ecstatic.

Sex for men and women is "All in your head"! 

• Desire is created by Dopamine
• Arosal by Acetylcholine
• Organsm is controlled by GABA
• Resolution is controlled by serotonin

Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone, Pregnenolone, Androstendione, and DHEA all are connected to the Chemicals in our brain.  Is it surprising that when our production of these hormones go down we feel less sexy and less sexually motivated?  Unfortunately pretending that we should accept this decline and age gracefully (as recommended by most Doctors) is the safest and best recommendation --- That is simply not true!

As much as I review Homones - Lets not forget the other aging and death causes Americans are doing to themselves.  As I see patients for Bio-identical Hormone replacement many have tremendous issues with weight.  Excessive weight creates "Endogenous" Estrogen - This is connected to  cancer and Heart disease issues.  Not because Estrogen is bad - but dominance of this hormone without balance is Unhealthy.  Replacement of your hormones to those levels of a healthy 25-30 year old and optimizing your weight, will add many healthy years to your life!  The data tells us that excessive weight can shorten your life by 15-20 years.  If you cann't "afford" a program - eat like the "cave-men" - Fruit - vegtables - meat and eliminate ALL processed foods and drinks.  No soda - No fruit drinks - no canned or boxed foods. 

As we age, hormonal output diminishes.  We slow down - then break down.  You may see your Doctor and be told - Everything is "normal" - yes this is true but Do you have to accept this "normal" deterioration process?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  The earlier you review your hormones and evaluate your lifestyle the more you are able to prevent the process of deterioration. 
For example: Between the age of 50 to 80 a women looses "80%" of the layers of her vaginal tissue -- Are we surprised women STOP having sex? The pain and discomfort and the lack of libido all are factors.  Should we accept this --- No!
The good news, as with many things that are not correct, --- We can reverse and better yet, prevent this process.  If you boost your hormones early enough, the symptoms and conditions related to this deterioration can be reversed and your body rejuvenated!  Thus, you are not stopping aging but stopping the deterioration of your body with aging.

Studies and easy to read information on "Bio-Identical" hormones are presented in DR. NEAL ROUZIER'S BOOK - listed below -------
Recommend: Natural Hormone Replacement by Neal Rouzier, M.D. order via Medquest Pharmacy: 1-888-222-2956

Do you have more than 15 pounds to Lose? --------

"FREE"ONE HOUR - from 4-5pm every Friday “TAKE SHAPE FOR LIFE"- Medifast Program email me if you want to attend liveyoungerlongerwithdrpeters@yahoo.com 

In Dr. Braverman's book "The Younger You" he mentions "4" key Neurotransmitters in the brain that are key in being a Younger You - These are Acetylcholine, Dopamine, GABA, and serotonin.  All things that you do in a natural way to keep these levels optimal will keep your brain and You being Younger. 

*Proper Hormones and Supplements
*Good Sleep
*Proper Foods
*Good Exercise
*Managing Stress

Just a few general items that are key in the maintenance of these key neurotransmitters of the brain.

Serotonin manages the messages leaving the brain -- When you are deficient you cannot think clearly, you might feel tired, unhappy, emotionally out of controll, unable to get proper restful sleep. 
A good 7 hours of sleep boost your serotonin levels.  Bio-identical hormones boost your serotonin levels. Progesterone for women (our natural valium), Human Growth Hormone, and Pregnenolone. 
These are all much better options then Pharmaceutical Drugs.

Growth Hormone is the most abundant hormone produced by the pituitary gland.  After the age of 30, Growth Hormone declines at a rate of 14% per year.  Studies have shown that supplementation of HGH increases positive changes in body composition, increases bone mass, improves cardiac function and exercise ability, enhances skin texture and improves wound healing.  This hormone has the potential to suppor the body's healing from the deterioration associated with the ageing process.

Growth Hormone prevents dementia.  Growth Hormone decline refers to somatopause.  Warning signs of Somatopause:

*Nighttime muscle cramps 
*Decreased Energy
*Decreased Well-being
*Depressed mood
*Increased Anxiety
*Poor Sleep
*Increased body fat
*Decreaed muscle mass
*Thin Skin and Increased Wrinkles 
*Decreased Hair and Nail Growth
*Decreased bone density
*Longer Wound healing

You may not be able to take Growth Hormone due to the expensive cost (about 600 dollars per month) but exercise and good sleep help to make growth hormone - So get a IGF-1 blood test it-measures growth hormone - so you will know how you are doing. 

OSTEOPOROSIS IS NOT JUST A WOMEN'S DISEASE!!
Male osteoporosis is an epidemic.     2 million of the 10 million people who have osteoporosis are men.  Most men who are at risk don't think about doing Bone Density testing. But if you are a white male with low testosterone and in your 60's you have risk.  If a man has a hip fracture he has about 30% risk he will die from the complications of the fracture within a year of the fracture.

December 6, 2010

In a study published by the Journals of Gerontology, men ages 65 to 87 who used testosterone for a year had improved memory and concentration abilities.  So not only is Testosterone good for Erectile function and good for the Heart - IT IS GREAT FOR THE BRAIN ALSO!!!!

DHEA is produced by the adrenal gland, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the precursor to the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone.  Recent studies have suggested DHEA as a treatment for accelerating wound healing in elderly patient.  Many patients find DHEA more effective when also given with N-ACETYL CYSTEINE. (NAC).  DHEA has also been shown to be helpful in some autoimmune diseases like Lupus.  Why is this not promoted??? Well there is no money for the pharmaceutical companies in making a perscription DHEA Sustained Release - It cost about 35 dollars for 3 months supply of DHEA Sustained Release.  Your Doctor must use a Compounding Pharmacy to ORDER this. 

DHEA is a foundational hormone - easy to give to male patients - based on their weight - more tricky for women since too much dose leads to acne and extra facial hair.  Remember the DHEA over the counter in most cases is "WORTHLESS" - It has fillers and
will only last about 2-3 hours vs 24 hours.  You need Compounded - Pharmaceutical grade DHEA Sustained Release.  
DHEA -

* increase your energy level
* help you lose weight
* slow down the aging process
* boost your immune system
* reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease
* improve your memory

Is there any reason to not spend 49 dollars and have your DHEASulfate level checked ---- This is a critical hormone in your brain and body not being in an accelerated aging process.   

SEVEN STAGES OF COGNITIVE DECLINE

1. Loss of Brain Processing Speed
Vibrant cognitive state - sharp memory - attention - and learning

2. Lapses in Memory and Forgetfulness
Loss of acetylcholine - this can be reversed - Natural testosterone and the nutrient zinc can boost acelylcholine.

3. Loss of Attention - If you are forgetful lately - keep shifting from one activity to another - feel hyperactive or apathetic  - find it difficult to get along with family, friends, and colleagues the problem may be aceylcholine and your decreasing attention.

4. Changes in Personality and Temperament  - This is regulated by Dopamine, acetylcholine, GABA and serotonin -- The four main Primary neurotransmitters.   Drastic overall personality imbalances can be a early stage of dementia.  Personality imbalances can be corrected if you catch them early. This change is probably a result of lowered acetylcholine.

5. Not feeling as smart as you used to be --

• abstract intelligence as the ability to control emotions by application of reason
• creative IQ - ability to think outside the box
• emotional IQ - Ability of sustain long term relationships
• common sense - quickness in seeing things as they are

6. Mild thinking Impairment, no dementia -

7. Dementia - Full dementia affects more than 4 million people over the age of 65, with 40-75 percent over the age of 85 Dementia not only affects memory but your judgment, abstract thinking, personality, and mood, and it clouds your orientation to time and place.

These items are all presented in  Eric Braverman's Book - the "YOUNGER YOU" --

When your mind begins to deteriorate, the rest of the body begins to deteriorate.  When your body begins to deteriorate, the mind begins to deteriorate.  This is the process we are FIGHTING -- yes there is no value to "aging gracefully".  You need to fight this process - we will not stop aging but you can be and feel like you did in your 30's if you do the right things.  Exercise - diet control - eating the right foods avoid the poisons of MSG - Aspartane - perservatives - artificial colors and dyes.  Preservation -- Bio-identical hormones --maintain acetlycholine and more devastating the loss of dopamine.  Women develope dementia more frequently than men because of earlier hormonal loss.  But, men with low testosterone also lose the good cognitive function they had in their 30's  

SEROTONIN THE GOOD BRAIN CHEMICAL ---

Serotonin is boosted through dietary choices.  Foods that are high in tryptophan, like turkey (so enjoy that good protein on Thanksgiving) this is one of the reason we feel so tired after that great meal.  Watch the junk food and carbohydrates you crave to keep your energy up; they ultimately will slow you down and lead to excess weight.

Sleep enhances creativity and Makes you Money!!

Your ability to learn motor skills inceases when you've had a good night's sleep.  When your serotonin (the feel good brain chemical) is at a good level; your dopamine and aceylcholine (other critical brain chemicals) -- can help in leading to deep thoughts and artistic skills.   Dopamine is the chemical missing for Parkinson's patients - a disease best prevented since we have NO cure.  Allowing your brain to 'reboot' with adequate sleep is like giving the brain a vacation.  You are rejuvenated when you have adequate sleep.  Remember the menopaual women -- Most suffer from sleep adnormalities - cann't fall asleep or wake frequently.  This is why so many women are given "habit-forming" sleep aids - ambien etc.  I aggressively use

Bio-identical Progesterone Capsules so it will do a safe pass via the liver and aid in sleep. The metabolites of progesterone help induce sleep in a natural manor.

Position Yourself for Good Night's sleep and Boost Your "serotonin" levels --- remember this is the chemical that makes you feel good!  Serotonin is critical to your brain working correctly------ and will slow the "Aging" process ---

1. Try to go to bed at the same time
2. Set up a routine - not listening to TV - Computer - Listen to music and darkness in the room
3. Finish dinner at least 3 hours before and make that dinner - LEAN and Green (lean protein and green veggie or salad)
4. Sleep in a cool,  dark room that is only used for "bedroom" activities.
5. Lavender-scented candles, aromatherapy oil, or night cream relaxed the mind before bed.
6. Do not drink caffeinated beverages or alcohol, and do not smoke!!
7. Get into bed when you are sleepy; don't fall asleep on the couch.
8. Avoid naps in the late afternoon or early evening.
   

Sleep restores serotonin ----
Getting better, more restful sleep is antidote to fear.  The brain has been restored, it "reboots".  BE HAPPY -- do not take life too seriously and enjoy ourselves and family.  One of easiest ways of getting back to a younger you is to get back to a schedules of good sleep.  Sleep debt is getting fewer then 49 hours of sleep per week - this is the amount you need to keep your serotonin levels in check.

Dr. Braverman writes in "The Younger You" -(another excellant book on aging) - Serotonin is a key chemical in the brain - When it is high you experience great mood in the day and sleep restfully at night.  When it is low you are depressed, cann't sleep, your mind spins out of control toward unusual fears and phobias.
NOTE: Sleep restores serotonin -
As I have said before Sleep is the number Vitamin!!!!! 

What are the points to remember about your thyroid?

• Fatigue is the most common symptom - Both physicial and mental -It precedes depression.
• Anxiety - including worry and panic are common when thyroid is underactive.
• Regardless of the degree of thyroid dysfunction there is cognitive loss - poor memory, difficulty processing, lack of focus, mental fog.
• This is an extremely commom problem and most women in menopause have "non-optimal" thyroid function.
• Underactive thyroid accelerates aging.
• Severe underactive thyroid not treated will promote dementia.
• Congenital (In children) hypothyroidism that is not detected will lead to irreversible intellectual deficits.

LASTLY - the use of Drugs like synthroid and levothyroid are only T4 - if you (like most menopausal women and andropausal men) are a poor converter to the active form of thyroid T3 then you will remain "CLINICALLY" hypothyroid.  Treatment needs to be with the Bio-identical form that is a mix of T4/T3 - and then all the parts of the hormone will be available for your body to use. 

WHAT ABOUT DEMENTIA AND THYROID??
An interesting connection- Patients with Alzheimers disease are more likely to have Thyroid Imbalance.  And patients with Alzheimer's and their normal relatives appear to have a higher incidence of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Hypothyroidism.  Hypothyroidism treatment slows the cognitive deterioration.  PROTECT YOUR BRAIN AND KEEP YOUR THYROID FUNCTION "OPTIMAL"!!

Why am I doing so much on Thyroid?
Well Thyroid and Aging are a connected issue.  The normal aging process is related, to some extent, to the decrease in thyroid hormone activity in the body. Because the thyroid is so connected to the hundreds of functions in the body it is conceivable that the decline in your thyroid contributes to the reduction in you basal metabolic rate which will drop 52% by age 85!!!!!

In an study published by the Archives of Internal Medicine it was shown that patients with "low grade" hypothyroidism suffer more from cornonary artery disease and cardiovascular death than people with normal thyroid function.  The reason is low grade hypothyroidism causes elevation of blood pressure, elevation of triglycerides and cholesterol, and high homocysteine levels.  Amazingly physician will still tell patients that it is not serious enough to treat when looking at the lab values that are not in drastic disease ranges.  All of this stems from the value the medical community has placed on DISEASE TREATMENT MODEL vs A WELLNESS TREATMENT MODEL --- When 500,000 Americans yearly die from Cardiovascular events a small "cheap" prevention should not be ignored.    

Signs of Hypothyroidism:
As the thyroid levels decrease the functioning of "Most" organs is affected.  The person may begin to experience a multitude of physical symptoms, including:

• General Tiredness
• Depression
• Weight gain
• Mental sluggishness
• Aches and pains in joints and muscles
• Increased sleepiness
• Muscle cramps
• Forgetfulness
• Constipation
• Emotional Instability
• Thickened skin
• Loss of ambition
• Dry and pale skin
• Decrease attention
• Brittle hair
• Decrease interest
• Hair loss, including loss of eyebrow hair
• Feeling cold even in warm temperatures
• Milky discharge from the breast (galactorrhea)
• Elevation of Cholesterol
• Elevation of HOMOCYSTEINE-an inflammatory marker --

OVER 200 ITEMS CONNECTED TO POOR FUNCTIONING THYROID -- Keeping your levels optimal (not just disease correction) is the way to feel optimal in all these items --REMEMBER IT IS THE OPTIMAL THYOID AND THE RIGHT BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT -THAT DOES THE RIGHT JOB -- THE RIGHT REPLACEMENT NEEDS TO BE COMPOUNDED BY A COMPOUNDING PHARMACY AND HAVE A MIX OF T4+T3 -- NOT JUST T4 (which is what synthoid & levothyroxin are).When asking for your thyroid to be tested you need TSH - FREE T3 AND FREE T4 -- this will assess the full spectrum of circulating unbound hormone in your blood and will allow a skilled physician in hormones to assess if you need replacement to "optimize" your LEVELS!!

Remember GABA - THE FEEL GOOD BRAIN CHEMICAL -
Here are some foods that help to increase GABA.  These foods are high in glutamine, the amino acid precursor to GABA. 

*Almonds *Banana *Beef liver *Banana *Broccoli *Brown rice *Grapefruit *Halibut *Lentils *Oats *Oranges *Potatoes * Spinach *Walnuts *Whole grains  -------

PASS ON THE JUNK FOODS -- THEY DON'T HELP YOUR BRAIN --
Stay away from simple carbohydrates (they are addictive) and simple sugars, white flours, and wheat products.  Focus on lots of protein - (especially organ meats) - citrus foods, and plenty of green veggies.
START SLOWLY - eliminate unhealthy foods, such as refined processed foods that are high in fat and sugar and replace them with healthy foods such as raw fruits and vegtables whole grains and lean protein sources.
Did you know the Average American consumes 170 pounds of refined sugar a year.  About 75% is hidden and 20% is composed of white sugar and sucrose.  Sugar helps in feeding cancer!!!!!!

Women -- Progesterone is a NATURAL VALIUM ---
Loss of progesterone in women as they age results in a higher rate of GABA deficencies (the chemical needed for Good brain function) --Progesterone can be considered a relaxing agent for women.  So ladies ---- make sure you keep your Progesterone going - take it liberally and make sure you get the right form (capsule - dissolvable)
For many women this needs to be started in their 30's - two weeks before menses and most women in their 40's and ALL women fifty and up.  Once women are menopausal this needs to be given daily and blood needs to be at 20-30 at all times.  

As I mentioned yesterday GABA is an important chemical in the Brain and helps us to not feel anxious.  Things that can decrease your GABA and make your Brain not function as well. 

* Overuse of cell phones and exposure to other electromagnetic fields
* Frequent exposure to loud noises
* Lack of Sleep
* Constantly being on the go
* Obesity
* Poor Diet
* Sedentary lifestyle
* Living and/or working in a Toxic environment

There is a biochemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) - GABA has a calming stabilizing, organizing effect over the brain.  GABA directly affects your personality and determines how you handle life's stresses.   Signs of low GABA--

*Restlessness - Feeling on edge - Being easily fatigues - Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank - Irritabliity - Muscle tension - Rapid Heartbeat - Shortness of breath - Sweaty, clammu hands- Cold extremites - High startle response - Feelings of panic - Excessive worry - Attention deficit disorder - Mood swings - Headaches - Sleep Problems - Out of body feelings - Obsessive compulsive disorder ----

Recent studies using pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) have showed that natural steroids can help elevate mood - Progesterone is for women a natural calmer.

If you want to improve your mood, reduce your stress, and get healthier:
1. Laugh - your brain will release endorphins which will make you feel better.
2. Exercise ---- North Arizona University study found if you don't have time to do 20-30 minutes daily, then do 10 minutes of exercise and do it several times per day. 10 minutes twice daily will improve your mood and reduce fatigue.  And, if you do 10,000 steps for the day you will meet the American Heart Associations recommendation on Minimum exercise daily.

Recently the news media - from CNN - ABC - PBS - etc. have all "revisited" the Women's Health Initiative Study" - 160,000 women who received Premarin and Premarin/Provera.  Time and Time again these two BAD hormones have been equaled to our Human Hormones and Recommendations from "EXPERTS" are to not use Hormone Replacement because it causes Heart attack - Stroke - Cancer.  Well giving women estrogen made from "Pregnant Horses" as a treatment for Menopause or Birth control pills makes a much sense as using a horses skin for your skin graft??  Why would you use horse urine to supplement your estrogen??  There is NO match between a horse and a women. 
Stay away from

*Methyltestosterone
*Diethylstilbestrol (DES)
*Conjugated estrogens
*Medroxyprogesterone (PROVERA)
*Cadaver growth hormones
*Birth control pills

So listen carefully when the discussion of hormones are on the news and become educated on what hormones are being discussed.

When do we lose our Hormones??

Age 30 ------------------------Decreasing Growth Hormone
Age 40 ------------------------Testosterone, estrogen, progesterone
Age 50 ------------------------DHEA, THYROID
Age 60 ------------------------Insulin, parathyroid
Age 70 ------------------------Calcitonin, erythropoietin

Supplements and Bio-identical hormones can reverse this "falling" descending hormonal battle.
Testing your hormones and starting early is true preventive medicine - Most Doctors do not perform these tests earlier enough and then are not interested in correction to Healthy optimal levels.  The treatment is only if in AGE DISEASE ranges.

NOTE A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR SUZANNE SOMERS AT YOUR LOCAL THEATERS CHECK -- www.suzannesomers.com

Dear Reader,
Alzeiheimer's disease does not occur overnight.  Just like heart disease, it's a condition that begins slowly and silently progresses over the years.  Similarly, if you address those first lapses of memory, there's a chance that you won't totally lose cognitive function later on in life. Dopamine controls the brain's voltage, or power.  If your Dopamine falls you become overweight, and develope a cascade of health symptoms.  Lifestyle such as weight, addiction, anxiety, depression, lack of sleep, all effect Dopamine - Acetylcholine - GABA- Serotonin -- ALL PART OF BRAIN FUNCTION --   years of life will be lost if you don't take care of your brain.

Dr. Eric Braverman writes in his book "The Younger You" - Fix your oldest part -- for women who are older then 50 this can mean their ovaries - Menopause "batters a women" aging her skin and hair and damaging her memory, attention and sleep cycles.  The current medical community answer is Antidepressants - Antianxiety - and sleepers - Remember when you start a Bio-identical Hormone program depending how long you have been in the Battle of MENOPAUSE - the correction could be short or it may take a few years.

Remember - Surgically enhancing your face or body will make you look younger but it won't stop you from aging.  Just as you have a choice to do or not do "age enhancing" surgery - you have the ability to choose paths of living younger - LOSING WEIGHT - QUIT SMOKING - LOWERING YOUR CHOLESTEROL - OPTIMIZE YOUR HORMONES - and you will add 10-15 years to your life.

Osteoporosis is all about a "younger you" - younger in your hormones - in your mind - and in your body -
Younger bodies can better absorb the nutrients and hormones the body needs to stay supple.  Your bone's age is affected by a host of variables, -- proper hormones -- vitamins, minerals -- and proper exercise and diet.

Knowing your bone age---
Your bone age is calculated in pluses and minuses: +1 would equal 40 year old bones, +2 would be 50 year old bones, +3 would be 60 year old bones, and so on.  You could be 40 and have the bones of a 70 year old.
BONE MINERAL DENSITY

-1    --------20:FIRM, STIFF BONES
0     --------30:IDEAL, NO BONE LOSS
+1    --------40:BEGINNING BONE LOSS
+2    --------50:OSTEOPENIA
+3    --------60:OSTEOPOROSIS
+4    --------70:SEVERE OSTEOPOROSIS
+5    --------80-90 DEAD BONES, LIKELY TO FRACTURE
+6    --------90-100-ALMOST 50% BONE FRACTURE
-------- ------RATE PER YEAR; DEATH OR SEVERE DEHYDRATION

MAKE NO MISTAKE - RECOMMENDATIONS ON BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONES - YOUR DIET - YOUR SUPPLEMENTS THIS IS TO "FIGHT" THE DEATH AND DIEING PROCESS--

The dease model treatment modality does not give "quality" of life - PREVENTION AND RESTORATION IS TRUE QUALITY OF LIFE MEDICINE!!!

Osteopause refers to the weakening of the bones and is more commonly thought of as Osteoporosis, or loss of bone density.  When this occurs the bones throughout the body - primarily within the spinal colunm begin to weaken.  A younger brain and body help postpone osteopause, younger brains send more biochemical messengers to produce hormones naturally, and youger bodies can better adsorb the nutrients and hormones the bones need to stay supple. 
CONCLUSION: -- Bio-identical hormones for your brain and bones and body 
--Do the right exercise and weight and diet
--Do the right supplements to give the body the tools it needs to continue the bone building.   

Be concerned if you see changes like these in someone you know---

* Forgets things more often
* Has problems doing familiar things
* Puts things in strange places
* Forgets common words or uses wrong words
* Has frequent problems with complicated tasks
* Has major change in personality (confused, suspecious, or afraid)
* Is confused about where he or she is
* Has lost interest in doing things
* Has sudden change in mood or behavior
* Does things that don't seem to make sense

Take action to increase aceylcholine - Increase your acetylcholine and improve your brain cognition. 
One of the easiest ways is dietary supplement.  Choline begins as vitamin B and is converted through digestion to acetylcholine. 

A "Nightcap" is a bad choice for getting a good night's sleep.

Alcohol and Carhohydrates, are used as a form of self-medication for anxiety and depression.  Even small doses can reduce the quality and the lenght of your sleep.  You fall asleep and then wake up!
Alcohol suppresses deep sleep, causing sleep fragmentation and contributing to sleep apnea, a problem where you stop breathing.  If you cann't sleep -- (besides Melatonin in a pharmaceutical grade and taking sustained release at the right amount) --- consider meditation - yoga - exercise -and prayer. Sleep restores "serotonin" and this is an "antidepressant".  Are we surprised so many Americans are dealing with depression?  Sleep is the number one vitamin. Sleep problems are NOT solved by Pharmaceutical drugs - they only ADD to the problem by giving you addiction.

"Calcium Hydroxyapatite: A Superior Bone Support Supplement"
The importance of calcium on preventing osteoporosis is undeniable. Yet, calcium does not work alone in creating strong, healthy bones. Although calcium is a major constituent of bone, the whole bone matrix is composed of a variety of other minerals including phosphorus and magnesium, trace elements, proteins, collagen, and glycosaminoglycans. Calcium and phosphorus occur in bone in a 2 to 1 ratio predominantly as crystalline structures called hydroxyapatite.
A Better Form of Calcium.
The physiological balance and structure of the hydroxyapatite minerals along with the presence of the organic constituents in bone caused researchers to speculate that it might be appropriate to use an extract of whole bone as a more beneficial form of supplemental calcium. Subsequent research conducted in Britain over a ten-year period showed that was indeed the case. Microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite compound (MCHC), and extract of young bovine bone, was found to be an extremely bioavailable form of calcium. The superiority of MCHC compared to traditional forms of calcium was shown in a number of controlled calcium balance and calcium absorption studies. The whole bone extract was exceptionally well-absorbed, producing more prolonged positive balance than soluble calcium salts such as calcium gluconate. MCHC was uniquely found to not only prevent further loss of bone, but to restore its mineral content. It was also surprisingly well-tolerated. Unlike calcium carbonate, the bone extract did not produce carbon dioxide to interfere with digestion.

Conclusion:  It takes more then just Calcium to keep your bones - AND - it takes the right kind of Calcium!!!

A study in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension found that increasing Magnesium and Potassium intake by consuming more veggies and fruit can help to lower your blood pressure by 2-6 points especially by also decreasing salt reduction.  Fish oil has also be shown to decrease blood pressure.  And the study done by the American Heart Association on 5000 patients for 3 1/2 years gave a statistically reduction in your risk for Heart Attack and Stroke.  

October 20, 2010

Well here we go again ----
Medical "Experts" giving American women mixed information.  It makes you wonder what pharmaceutical company was backing them!! On "PBS" - news today - Dr. Julie Gralon and Dr. Bowan Chlebowski - an oncologist and breast cancer surgeon "revisited" THE WOMENS HEALTH INITIATIVE STUDY.  Conclusion - Women who had "Premarin" (the horse estrogen that causes blood clot) did NOT cause breast cancer - But the group of women taking "Progestin=Provera" had increase in breast cancer.  So the "experts" advise = Only take "hormones" if you have to and then for a very short time.  According to the "experts" Use other Pharmaceutical options to treat women --- Per these experts all hormones are "BAD" -  Unfortunately this advice leaves women at risk for SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION - DEPRESSION - INSOMNIA - HAIR LOSS - DRY SKIN - LOSS OF LIBIDO - ELEVATED CHOLESTEROL - OSTEOPOROSIS - Do your own research and read read read.  The evidence is presented in Dr. Rouzier's book - read the medical studies and make up your own mind! 

Researchers at the University of South Carolina  in Columbia found that people who had moderate  to high levels of physical activity experienced  20-30% fewer colds than those with low activity  levels.  Remember--- Keeping your Vitamin D blood level at 50 or greater may protect you as much as the influenza vaccine.

Staying youthful means staying at a BMI of less than 25
----- STAYING THIN -----
Just controlling your weight takes 10-15 years off your aging.  A "Big Mac" may seem like an OK item once and awhile, but it can't give you precious years with your loved ones.

Recommend : Habits of Health By Wayne Scott Anderson M.D.

"Like many people, you've probably tried to lose weight and failed. You are not alone... I'm going to give you the knowledge, skills, and support to put you back in the driver's seat. You and I are going to build a different kind of relationship than you may have experienced in your past medical treatments. I'm not going to use prescriptions, warnings, or fear tactics. Instead, I'll be your coach, your guide. Together, we'll put you on the path to taking permanent charge of your health." - Dr. A's Habits of Health

Auto-immune Disorders ------

Lupus - Multiple Sclerosis - Rheumatoid Arthritis and more -There are many Nutritional influences on these diseases.  The presentation and progression can be influenced by our diets.   I recommend a book called "NUTRITIONAL INFLUENCES ON ILLNESS - By Melvyn Werbach M.D." - There are numerous studies presented on many illnesses.  The book gives "evidence based" studies from many medical journals.  Unfortunately when patients have these illnesses most physicians who are considered "Experts" in the disease treatments only relie on the Pharmaceutical drugs and this is much to the detriment of patients.  
If you have a chronic disease you need to do your homework and research the best of treatments which have degrees of "evidence" behind how they are working.   

Hypertension --------
One of the most common medical conditions in this country.  You need to do all you can to correct your bodies functions in controlling your Blood Pressure.  Americans fool themselves if they believe taking a pill will stop their risk of dying from a Stroke or Heart attack.  This does not mean I advise stopping your medications - It means correct the items that cause the elevated blood pressure and then you have an excellent chance to eliminate the Blood Pressure problem and your won't need medications.

1. Idealize your weight
2. Idealize your Hormones
3. Take Coenzyme q10 - 60mg daily reduced Blood pressure in 4-12 weeks
4. Adequate amounts of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (fish oil) have been shown to decrease blood pressure
5. Avoid caffeine and Alcohol
6. Dietary changes - Fresh - Fruits - vegetables -5-9 servings per day -- (avoid processed food-heavy with sodium)
7. Start walking - 10,000 steps (3miles) per day

If you don't want to be part of the 1/2 million cardiovascular deaths per year - make your changes and DON'T "relie" on medications. ----

What about weight and "Elevated Fasting Insulin".

If you are overweight - you should have a Fasting Insulin done.  How will this help you?  If your insulin is elevated in the morning then you will battle with yourself "all" day.  The bodies  mechanisms to control hunger and fatigue are "off" and you will have a very difficult time controlling weight. There are effective regimes to help this, including the medication Metformin.  I am not a "fan" of random use of medications but on a temporary basis this can help in dropping the insulin levels and bringing down your hunger.  Starting a controlled medical diet will aid to this and you should start to see minimum of 2lbs per week in weight loss.  Dr. Wayne Anderson discusses this in his book = Habits of Health.

Five manifestations of Polycstic Ovarian syndrome or Hyperandrogen Syndrom - Occuring in up to 10% of all women!

1. Testosterone causes oily skin, acne, increased facial and body hair, and may give loss of hair on the scalp
2. Ovulation can be blocked - for the premenopausal women
3. Weight is a major frustration.
4. Increase in insulin levels = increase in risk of Diabetes and Heart disease.
5. Depression = may due to hormones or frustration of working with so many different problems

It is important all these hormonal imbalances be corrected and eliminated to reduce womens changes of disease.  

Caffeine and Fibrocystic Breast:
Fibrocystic breast disease is a most common female health problem- occuring in 60% of women ages 30 to 50.   While caffiene intake does not cause it, it does seem to aggravate it.  Several studies have been conducted that have enough evidence behind them to state this.  If the pain and problem of this is enough to be bothersome for a women I advise to eliminate caffeine.   As women are treated in Menopause with Bio-identical hormones, even the bio-identical estrogen can bother some womens breast temporarily.  Increasing the progesterone and elimination of caffeine can help the issue.  Making sure your blood levels are balanced with these your hormones will rid the breast of any temporary discomfort.   

More poison for your body---

Hormones for the Heart

* Estradiol = Regulates the amount of Cholesterol generated in the liver.  It helps to raise HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL (bad cholesterol).  Estradiol assists the regeneration of Endothelial cells and reduces inflammation.
* Progesterone = While the "bad" copy - provera - methroxyprogesterone acetate - has been linked to heart attacks, stroke and cancer,  - bio-identical progesterone safely regulates cholesterol levels to improve cardiovascular function.

* Testosterone = Deficiencies are linked to increase in heart disease in men and women.  Low testosterone levels may lead to blood pressure and cholesterol imbalance, as well as clot proliferation.  Restoring testosterone levels can aid blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improve insulin sensitivity.  Testosterone can increase HDL levels, decreae triglyceride levels and the blood flow to the heart is increased.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR THE HEART HEALTH

* Alpha lipoic Acid
* Co-enzyme Q 10
* Fish Oil
* Resveratrol
* Viamin D (This vitamin functions more as a Hormone then vitamin - Our RDA standards of 400iu are completely inadequate) Huge amounts of research are now showing this vitamin deficiency influences Blood Pressure and cardiovascular dysfunction. Make sure your blood levels are at least 50!

 
-----EXERCISE GOES STRAIGHT TO YOUR HEART --
Getting your heart in shape means increasing that muscle for stress and strain.  Your heart is like any other muscle it must have enough blood flow to maintain its job = pumping oxygen and nutrients thoughout the body.  It also transports waste products that get eliminated.
Where do you start?? -
* If you have not exercised then start with walking - DO NOT END your day without 10,000 steps = 3 miles = 1hour 
* Walk fast enough that you cann't talk and walk -
* If you cann't walk then find a pool and "water walk" - even those who are in wheelchairs can do this - or with joint problems - Get the water to your nipple line and wear a "water jogger" - walk back and forth for 1 hour -
*Add some weight training - REMEMBER WOMEN WE LOSE 80% of our upper body strenght with age ---
Make it fun and buddy up - Working out with someone is good for the soul and good for the mind - good for the body

Heart Disease = The Leading Cause of Death =
425,000 DEATHS per year and growing due to the Poor health of this Nation - Remember we are "25th" in the world in our nations health - Billions of dollars are NOT doing the job.  Multiple factors include elevated Cholesterol, High blood pressure , Plaque formation.
Decline in estrogen increases your heart risk and low testosterone increases your heart risk. 
What do your do:
* Bio-identical hormone replacement
* Adequate heart protective nutritents ex: FISH OIL
* Exercise - increase your heart rate to at least 60% of your maximum (calculate = 220-Age X 60%= Your heart rate goal)
* Optimize your weight
(As you see I did not list, start a Statin = lipitor, crestor ,etc.
These are disease treatment drugs not for "PRIMARY PREVENTION") It has become a primary prevention strategy but has NOT changed our nations death from Heart disease - but it certainly is increasing the revenue of the Pharmaceutical companies. ---

For the Men - An Andropausal Questionnaire

How did you score? Cross reference your score with the table below.

Another questionnaire to decide on the issue of Testosterone --

The St. Louis ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male) questionnaire asks for the following symptoms:

1. Decrease in sex drive.
2. Lack of energy.
3. Decrease in strength and/or endurance.
4. Lost height.
5. Decreased "enjoyment of life."
6. Sad and/or grumpy.
7. Erections less strong.
8. Deterioration in sports ability.
9. Falling asleep after dinner.
10. Decreased work performance.

Men experiencing problems 1, 7, or a combination of any four or more might be candidates for TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT --- GET YOUR FREE AND TOTAL TESTOSTERONE CHECKED AND SEE IF YOU ARE IN THE NORMALS OF A 25 YEAR OLD MAN------ THAT SHOULD BE YOUR GOAL RANGE!!

What is Perimenopause? 
This is a time frame when hormone swings can be wider then any other stage of a women's life, even puberty.  Women are frustrated by these swings - hair loss, mood swings, general aches and pains, and the medical community dismissing them as merely psychological. 

• Usually about age 44 (but can be earlier)
• Periods are lighter (but they can be closer together and less frequent)
• Restless sleep - (waking at 2-am and cannot fall back to sleep
• Mood swings (a lead to marital discord and divorce)
• Hair loss
• Body just does not feel right
• Memory problems
• Slower thinking
• Increase vaginal dryness

This is the time to see a competent physician that can address these items and return your hormonal state to a balance.

Vaginal health for women 40 and up -- A subject much ignored by physicians and misunderstood by partners -
Recently this week - "Dr. Oz" gave a visual of the state of a womens vagina on his weekly show - The show depicted three walls of wood representing the "walls of the vagina" of a 30 to 60 year old women  - Needless to say: the wall of wood that represented a 60 year old, when hit with a hammer - fractured and split indicating the state of vaginal tissue at that age.  Now the experts gave as "their" expert advice the following
1. use oil to help with sex!!
2. have sex anyway - "use it" to not "lose it"! - Medical expert Dr. Ashton --
3. and -- consider a dilator to help! 

After seeing this show I am not surprised that women are turning to "Susan Summers" as their medical consultant for sexual help after menopause.  The "ignorance" of these statements is amazing.  If you want a true solution to vaginal atrophy - restore the right hormones and your body will Restore the vagina to its "YOUTHFUL" self and you and your partner will be happy. 

Do you have "PCOS" - polycystic ovarian syndrome?

Or a better name "Hyperandrogen syndrome".  Between 5-10% of women have this hormonal imbalance and it starts at all ages. 

The five manifestions of PCOS:

• Acne, unwanted facial and body hair, and loss of scalp hair - all caused by testosterone.
• Ovarian problems, including irregular periods.  Some, but not all have difficulty becoming pregnant.
• Weight gain
• Abnormal metabolism, particularly insulin resisitance, and sometimes increase risk of diabetes and heart attacks.
• Depression - partly biochemical and partly due to the stress of coping with the condition.

There is help ----- if you think you have this or have a friend or family member who does --- seek out a physician who will work with you in acheiving better health and controlling this hormone imbalance.

Starting at age 35. Hypothyroidism is a condition that is fairly common among women and can raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels and lead to heart problems and depression. If your TSH level is high, your doctor may prescribe a thyroid replacement medication. But remember if this is not a Bio-identical hormone thyroid replacement then you will remain "CLINICALLY HYPOTHRYOID". -- You need to have a compounded replacement and if on a synthetic thyroid then find a Doctor to do a compounded thyroid perscription.  Synethetic is only T4 and Bio-identical is T4 combined with T3 (The part of the thyroid you need to circulate at optimal levels).

Starting at age 20 and older. "You should have a fasting blood test to measure total cholesterol and LDL, plus the other lipids, triglycerides, and HDL [high-density lipoprotein],"

"If the numbers are normal, you don't have to recheck them for five years." If the numbers are not where they should be, the best way to improve your cholesterol levels is to lose excess weight; exercise more often; stick with a diet that is low in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fats; and get your levels rechecked yearly. 

Remember FISH OIL is recommended by the American Heart Association as "Primary Prevention"

Check your blood sugar --At age 45, then every three years after that. (Your doctor may test you earlier or more frequently, if you are overweight or have a family history of diabetes.)  Also do a hemoglobin A1C test, which measures glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), a substance in red blood cells that forms when glucose attaches to hemoglobin. This "gives a better picture of average blood sugar over the previous three months," says Wendy S. Klein, an internist in Richmond, Virginia. An optimal A1C reading is less than 5.7 percent. To improve your blood-sugar numbers, shed any excess pounds.

Healthy number: Less than 120/80 mmHg.

Blood pressure refers to the force of blood against the walls of your arteries when your heart beats (systolic pressure, the top number) and during rests between beats (diastolic pressure, the bottom) and is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). "The lower yours is, the better," says Holly Thacker, M.D., director of the Center for Specialized Women's Health at the Cleveland Clinic. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is 140/90 mmHg or higher. Hypertension is called "the silent killer" because it often has no symptoms and, left untreated, can lead to stroke, heart disease, kidney damage, and vision and memory problems. (If your top number is between 120 and 139 and the lower is between 80 and 89, you have prehypertension, which also carries risks.)
 How do you get rid of High Blood pressure?? You must start with a normal Body mass index! - This is your weight to height ratio - it needs to be less then 25. -

8 Health Shortcuts That Work
Doing exactly the right thing can seem impossible. These quick methods come close.
Greg Clarke
Cardiovascular Activity 
The ideal: Do 30 minutes most days of the week. The surgeon general advises this near-daily regimen will help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, raise HDL (good) cholesterol, and improve cardio health, reducing the risk for diabetes and heart disease. 
The next best thing: Take three 10-minute walks each day. Short bursts have real health benefits, says Cris Slentz, Ph.D., a senior research scientist at Duke University Medical Center, in Durham, North Carolina. Assuming the intensity is identical to that of a 30-minute workout, you'll burn the same number of calories and get the heart-health benefits.

This week we have focused on a few items around weight and health.  Where is the medical communities in all of this? Just like the items with Bio-identical hormone replacement - the focus is on sick care.  Bio-identical hormones are prevention of disease - and optimal weight is prevention of disease.  Medical students and residents are being given the newest technologies and life-saving breakthroughs and newest "drugs" for disease.  But how is this saving our nation.  We are NOT even in the top "25" for our nations health.  Health and wellness must come from taking control of your diet - your exercise - your lifestyle.  Becoming Knowledgeable on what your body needs in Vitamins - and supplements - What FOOD is safe and what Hormonal replacements you need as you age.

Because of the alarming increase in the number of calories we eat and the lifestyles that are becoming ever more sedentary, in 2003 Baylor University did a study with this prediction----
If we don't change our life styles and behaviors then by the year 2032 over "90%" of us will be overweight or worse.
If the food industry could have us eating "all night" they would to increase  their bottom line -- profit!-

Just like so many "money" Industries the "food" industry is not your friend.  The food industry is "BIG" business and the focus is on cost.  Stocking products that "last" a long time and are filled with preservatives and dyes and artificial colors and sugars - In the 1980's sugar was replaced by "HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP"  - not a real sugar.  Why -COST!! -- IT allowed the industry to make bigger amounts with the same price.  So what happens with this High fructose corn syrup - it goes through your liver and increases your triglycerides and increases your fat.  What else happens - High fructose corn syrup is addicting - your crave it and want more.  More money for the Industry that produces Pepsi and Coke.   Do one committment this week stop buying anything with "HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP".  Your saving your liver and your life!!! Don't fool yourself - if you switch to diet your now taking in Aspartane - another "Killer" -

* In the U.S. alone, excess weight, obesity, and inactivity are reportedly responsible for about 300,000 deaths every year.
*Complications from obesity, including increased risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, and certain cancers, now account for over 9 percent of all health care costs. 
* 66% of Americans are overweight or obese  and this coming generation will have a shorter life span than their parents.
ONLY YOU CAN TAKE CONTROL - I am recommending a book called Habits of Health by Dr. Wayne Anderson - you can order it by hitting my Medifast link on my  web site and you will go to the "Take Shape for Life" web site - go to the ordering site - it is only about 30 dollars for 2 DVD's and Habits of Health --

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an androgen secreted by the adrenal glands.  Like testosterone, DHEA levels decline with age, so the large majority of women of menopausal age (and some younger women) would do well to replace this hormone, too.  DHEA replacement is essential for maintaining optimum immune function and for helping to reduce the risk of cancer.  Some women report that DHEA does more for libido than testosterone.  DHEA levels are also predictive on aging well or aging poorly. 

Women  who do not have a uterus need to remember that Progesterone which your body made before menopause had a job.  In fact Progesterone has a huge number of jobs - from your brain to sleep to libido to cancer protection. I am still seeing women who have had Hysterectomy and being given estrogen only.   This is the highest risk situation for Breast cancer.  These women are being given estrogen with no protection to "oppose" the carcinogenic properties that can develope from this "unbalanced" state.  Therefore, if any physician insists on prescribing any form of estrogen without also an adeqeuate amount of progesterone - whether you have a uterus or not - I recommend you ask the Doctor for the research on this.  If your Doctor cann't then find yourself a better informed doctor.

Venous Thromboembolism  is a blood clot that forms in the large veins.  When these clots form in the deep veins in the legs, thighs, or pelvis, the condition is known as "deep vein thrombosis".  Because estrogen taken orally has the ability to activate abnormal blood coagulation and clotting only low risk young women should be given this as an option.  Physician must make careful decisions in the route of each hormone prescribed. 

Control your body fat safely ----
Even though there are obvious dangers of obesity and specifically elevated abdominal fat content.  Most Americans have a hard time losing weight.  Many turn to "quick-fix" solutions like bariatric surgery - diet pills or shots - The best and safest approaches to weight loss continue to be the reduction of caloric intake coupled with careful increase in energy expenditure.  This is why I recommend "TAKE SHAPE FOR LIFE" - Medifast --consistent weight loss of 2-5 lbs weekly.  The cheapest and most successful program in the country.  Over 1 million patients -- used by greater then 20,000 physicians.  
If you have questions email me for more information.

Excessive body fat not only increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, it also increases the risk of deadly cancer.  In one European study per "Life Extension" magazine high BODY MASS INDEX increases the risk of cancer for 10 out of 17 specific types of cancer. Other studies have shown a powerful association between body fat content and kidney and liver cancers.  Another study has estimated a reduction of 45% in the risk of breast cancer in women who lost more then nine pounds.
The point is - look at your BMI and optimize your weight to decrease your risk of cancer. 

Prebiotics help in the absorption of calcium - a critical factor in preventing bone loss. Researchers have further demonstrated that both short and long term prebiotic supplementation enhances not only calcium absorption but also bone mineralization in humans. Prebiotics help in the bowel health and in turn with total-body immune system support.

"VITAMIN D" THE GREAT PROTECTOR---------------------
 You need to get your vitamin D level checked twice per year in the Fall and spring - this will allow you to protect yourself against influenza.  Vitamin D has powerful immune-boosting properties, upregulating genes for vital immune-enhancing effects, most individuals need a "high quality" higher dose supplement then any multidose has.  You blood level for optimal protection should be 50-80.  The blood test you need is a Vitamin D 25-OH.  --- (25-hydroxyvitamin D- or 25(OH)D)
 (not the kidney modified 1,25dihydroxy vitamin D) You can get the test at your Doctors office and it should not cost more then 50 dollars or less or covered by insurance. One way of taking care of yourself.  Most adults will need up to 5000iu - some slightly less but some patients could need significantly higher amounts if the Vitamin D levels are less then 30 ---

ARE YOU PROTECTING YOURSELF WITH VITAMIN D??
As "flu" season comes around the corner, we don't need to be unprotected.  Vitamin D has been shown to have a wonderful protection.  This incredible vitamin functions more as a hormone then a vitamin.  The current "RECOMMENDED" requirerments of 400-800 iu daily are extraordinaryly inadequate!  87% of adults are deficient.  Your immune system needs this critical vitamin and without it you are at risk for "flu" and a host of other medical problems.
Even within "main" stream medicine -The Dr. Oz's and Dr. Sanjay Gupta's with many others are talking about vitamin D.
Tomorrow I will discuss testing and levels.--------------

Life Extension Magazine presented that  'Finnish allergists' were able to prevent eczema in infants by feeding their mothers a probiotic/prebiotic mixture during the final weeks of pregnancy and continuing the supplements in the newborns.  If the "gut" can control the behavior of the skin - just think how many areas of the body are controlled by the gut.

So what are Prebiotics??  They are Nutrients that support the growth of beneficial bacteria already residing in the colon.  Complex carbohydrate molecules are the most effective.  Ex: agava plant
So what are Probiotics??  They are dietary supplements that contain billions of beneficial bacteria in the living form.  They are ingested and eventually deliver beneficial bacteria into the colon, where they increase in number and amplify their health-promoting effects. You need both in your regular daily regime.   

Millions of Americans suffer from the symtoms of "Irritable Bowl Syndrome".  While the causes may be unclear, Irritable bowl syndrome is extremely common.  If you have bouts of of diarrhea, gas and cramping,  alternating with constipation,  then you may have "IBS".  Doing detailed analysis of the stool and food allergy testing may often guide you to what is needed for replacement in the gut and stop the episodes.  Prebiotics and Probiotics are growing in acceptance and even Mainstream medicine has started to accept their value for IBS patients.

Your 'GUT' determines alot.  Optimal beneficial bacteria in the colon plays a vital role in "overall" health.  Digestion and Imune functions are part of the aging process.  Remember past 50 we are fightening the death and dying process.  Both probiotics and prebiotics are extremely important in helping your digestive system continue to function like that healthy 25 year old your body wants to be.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General of the 2.2 million  deaths in American each year, 1.8 million are diet related.  Take control and look at yourself and see if your diet is killing you.  Don't end your day without 10,000 steps or 3 miles, recommended by the American Heart Association.   Get rid of the junk and if you have a weight problem then check out your options.  Whatever you chose, if you don't lose lbs per week then consider the most successful program in the country -"Take Shape for Life" - Medifast.  You will lose 2-5 lbs per week eating portion controlled meals 6 times daily - This is the program John Hopkins University uses.  John Hopkins was ranked this year as the #1 Medical center in the Country. if YOU HAVE QUESTIONS GIVE ME A CALL!!!      ----954-612-2112  -----

Strengthen Bones the Natural way-------
Bio-identical hormones and the use of Strontium (along with calcium, vitamin D3, magnesium, Vitamin K2, Zinc,Copper, Selenium, Manganese, Molybdenum, Boron, and Silicon are the way to "prevent" and "treat" Osteoporosis.  

AN ANTIDOTAL STORY --
My mother at the age of 78 gained over 10% (in two years) in her bone density  with Bio-identical hormones and proper supplements.  She feels great and no harmful drugs to worry about. 

MORE BAD NEWS ON BISPHOSPHATES = FOSAMAX - ETC.

Gastrointestinal Toxicity:
Upper "food" tube tract problems -
These drugs can cause Esophagitis, Esophageal ulcers, Esophageal erosions.

"Jaw Death" = Osteonecrosis
Doctors at one hospital were alarmed to note that in a 3 year  period  - OSTEONECROSIS OF THE JAW- were diagnosed in 63 patients - all had been on Fosamax.

ATRIAL Fibrillation-
Women who have ever been on Fosamx or Reclast "double" their risk of developing serious atrial fibrillation - a serious form of irregular heartbeats.

What about our "friend" the FDA - THEY approved the Bisphosphonats= FOSAMAX - ACTONEL - DIDRONEL - BONIVA - RECLAST - designed to impact the bone Resorbing activity - they also block mineralization.  The Drug companies hit the 'BIG ONE' with these drugs when the Womens Health Initiative study came out and created a $3.6 BILLION dollar per year golden egg.  But ALL IS NOT ROSY - there are now 10 year studies showing some very concerning findings - Patients were having Bizarre nonspiral fractures (to the lower back, ribs, hip bones, and femur) while performing normal activities -walking- standing or turning.  The locations of the fractures were unusual and the fractures took months and even years longer to heal then they should have. Think long and hard before you use these drugs - there are much better ways of protecting and restoring your bones with Bio-identical Hormones and Proper supplements.

There are other important Nutrients for "BONE HEALTH" besides Calcium - Vitamin D - particularly D3 - strontium - Magnesium - K2 (as menaquinone) - Zinc - Copper - Selenium - Manganese, Molybdenum, Boron and Silicon.
Also - If you are adding Strontium to your supplement regime - make sure you do more mg's of Calcium then Strontium -

Strategies to help you sleep

1. Practive good sleep hygiene - perscription sleep medications should not be used unless all else has been tried -- they are habit forming and difficult to get off --
2. Stick to a sleep schedule: Keep your bedtime and wake time consistent from day to day, including on weekends.  Sleeping in may set you up for a cumulative sleep deficit.
3. Make the sun work for you. Sunlight can have a powerful effect on our sleep.
4. Have a cool - dark - quite room to sleep in "Turn off the TV" ---------------
   
   

One third of Americans report occasional bouts of insomnia, while 10 percent to 15 percent suffer from a chronic form of the condition.  The consequences are not limited to daytime drowsiness.  Insomnia can affect your physical healthy, work performance, and quality of life. As I mentioned yesterday, insomnia can create epression. Recognition and treatment of insomnia by healthcare providers may be critical in preventing or eliminating depression.  The "coaktail" of an antidepressant and sleeper is NOT the answer.  If you have chronic insomnia, meaning at least three nights per week for a month or longer, your Doctor should be addressing this.  I see many women who are in the early premenopausal state or menopause that will have great relief by just PROGESTERONE AND MELATONIN ---  Tomorrow more suggestions to follow-----------------------------------

American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., identified 555 people who suffered from chronic insomnia. Four years later, the researchers found that this group was up to five times more likely to be depressed than those without insomnia.  There was noone in the study that was depressed at the beginning of the study, suggesting that it was indeed the insomnia that led to the depression.  If you don't sleep get the pharmaceutical grade melatonin and have a physician help in getting the correct dose for you. 

If you want to increase your energy in the middle of the day -get up - go for a short walk or any physical activity.  This will re-energize you instead of reaching for caffeine or sugary snacks -
Remember you should take 1/2 your body weight in onzes of water.  Dehydration can give you headache, add to fatigue, increase anxiety.  If you think this is happening to you, drink 2-3 glasses of pure water. 

Americans do love our dietary supplements. More than half of the adult population have taken them to stay healthy, lose weight, gain an edge in sports or in the bedroom, and avoid using perscription drugs.  In 2009, we spent 26.7 billion on them, according to the Nutrition Business Journal, a trade publication.  The problem is determining safety in the company and the supplement.
    
Do  your research!     Unfortunately, there is manufacturing quality problems with companies that supply herbs, vitamins, and other raw ingredients.  China, which has repeatedly been caught exporting contaminated products, is a "major" supplier of raw supplements.  So be careful - Look at the site of where you are getting supplements and pick American based companies and ones who do quality control.  To name a few supplements that have had issues linked to serious adverse events --

 Bitter orange, Aconite, chaparral, colloidal silver, coltsfoot, comfrey, country mellow, germanium, greater celandine, kava, lobelia, and yohimbe.

The worse your PMS (premenstral syndrome) experience, the higher your stress level and the less healthy your diet and lifestyle, the more likely you'll  have a difficult menopause.  But remember doing the natural items -diet, exercise and Bio-identical hormones the more you will consider this a transition that you can "Enjoy".
Using items like Antidepressants, Sleepers, Antianxiety drugs is not the way to go.  If your Doctor wants to use these items as your tools for Menopause seek another opinion.

Healthy lifestyles and Healthy living are very important in the Menopausal picture - Hormonal Fluctuations can begin many years before menopause.  The first Hormone that begins this fluctuation is PROGESTERONE  not Estrogen - Infact, estrogen may remain high for several years as a women has great need for additional progesterone.  Starting progesterone early will help to easy the path toward complete menopause.

A Study coming from one of the Journals of Clinical Nutrition out of Europe found that spikes in blood sugar can interfere with your short term memory.  This is why a balance Mediterranean diet or a 'cave man' type diet is the best - eating 5 small meals that are concentrated on Meat - Fruits - Veggies will help your waist and your mind.

For Optimal Health, read food labels and avoid foods containing additives such as: artificial colors, nitrates, sulfites, MSG, food preservatives, synthetic flavors, food waxes and genetically modified foods.  Good health is controlling all aspects of what your body is exposed to and how you help your body work. 

Monday

In a recent JAOA supplement journal - Dr. Spillman from the Texas Internal Medicince Dept. of University Health Sciences reviewed Diabetes with Collages.  One statement mentioned was " ...every drug that has ever been approved for the treatment of Type 11 Diabetes is predicated(dependent) on being an adjunct to lifestyle modifications." Diabetic patients need to realize that Prescriptions drugs make blood sugar look better - Life style can get "RID" of the disease and Truly is the way to stop Diabetic Blindness and Kidney disease and Heart disease associated with Diabetes.

Do not assume Skin application of progesterone will maintain protective levels ---- Blood markers of hormone levels are the greatest end points of Cancer protection.  There are some clinicians using management testing with Saliva.  The difficulty with Saliva is what we know in "Evidence- Based" studies with Blood testing.  If the blood testing does NOT show protection against cancer then it does NOT MATTER what saliva testing shows.  Even if Salivary levels are > 1000 - Progesterone replacement is necessary to bring the blood level up to >20ng/ml -

I have many women ask about the use of "Over the Counter" Progesterone cream.  As important as progesterone is in killing and preventing cancer.  It is important to understand that inadequate blood levels of progesterone give NO protection against cancer.  Over the counter progesterone cream has been shown to be completely inadequate in giving protection against uterine or breast cancer.  The blood levels must be greater than 10ng/ml and greater then 20ng/ml to protect against breast cancer.  Information on the progesterone creams were presented by Gynecological Endocrinology in 2005.

Breast cancer is killed by Progesterone because of the P13/-kinase/AKT pathway.  Provera (the option on the market and used by many Doctors) stimulates the growth of Breast cancer cells.  Progesterone alone or with Estradiol REDUCES the growth of breast cancer cells.

Why is there an increase of breast cancer at menopause, from age 50 to 60???  If higher estrogen levels predict an overall increase in cancer, then why does the incidence of breast cancer increase when women lose estrogen with menopause?  The answer -- PROGESTERONE LOSS---
Progesterone is the first hormone to go and is the key in prevention of cancer!!  Progesterone is SO SAFE that this hormone is used in multiple medical problems of pregnancy.  High dose INJECTABLE PROGESTERONE IN PREGNANCY --- This is the hormone Breast Cancer patients need to be given immediately. It has CANCER KILLING ABILITY!!

Did you know??  The "Female Patient" Medical Journal indicates over 60 published studies that state Estrogen can be safely given to women with history of breast cancer.  IN FACT WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD BREAST CANCER ---ESTROGEN USERS HAD A 9% RECURRENCE RATE AND NON-USERS OF ESTROGEN HAD A 20% RECURRENCE.
The problem with the medical community-- NOT properly looking at their own data. One of the largest studies - The "Womens Health Initiative" study clearly made the cancer link to the Non-Bio-identical drug PROVERA. Quess what?  Doctors are STILL writing this CANCER CAUSING DRUG!!

Optimal health is the result of small changes that add up to increased vitality, a healthy body and mind, and a sense of well-being and purpose.  Start with your own assessment

1. Do you have an ideal Body Mass Index -BMI
2. Are you doing 10,000 steps daily = 3 mile day
3. Is your diet free of chemical- prevervatives- & Fillers
4. Do you "EAT THE CAVE MAN DIET" = fruit-veggie-meat?
5. Do you eat Breakfast and make it your largest meal?
6. What is your age and are you hormonally balanced?

These are the items that will extend your life and make you feel the enjoyment of good health.

Research has shown us that patients who do not sleep have effect on your body's sensitivity to insulin and two appetite-related hormones.  This explains why people who have insufficient sleep overeat. 
CONCLUSION:  not sleeping well = increase risk of obesity!
Melatonin sustained release can help correct the problems of not sleeping.

Most of us know that obesity can affect your health.  Did you know that not sleeping increases your risk of obesity? A study done by Columbia University looked at people who slept 5 hours per night.  This study showed that people who sleep only 5 hours were 73% more likely to become obese then those getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night. 

Conclusion:
MEN AND WOMEN - ONCE YOU ARE HAVING SLEEP PROBLEMS START THE MELATONIN.
WOMEN - USE PROGESTERONE CAPSULES TO AID IN YOUR GOOD SLEEP PATTERNS.

Melatonin
Your body's natural sleep and wake cycles depend on chemical compounds in your body.  Melatonin helps set and maintain your body's "inner clock".  As we age, our bodies produce less melatonin.  This is one reason why older adults can find it hard to fall, or stay, asleep.  Sleeping pills are addicting (even if you are told they are not) and add unnatural chemicals to the body.  You need a compounded sustained release melatonin designed dose for you.  The average women needs  .5mg to 10mg and Men usually need 10mg to 40mg.

Recent research suggests that a key factor in menopausal women sleeping better may be bio-identical progesterone.  There was a study done in France which compared sleep patterns of women taking conventional Hormone Replacement Therapy and Bio-identical Progesterone.  The results of the study showed women using progesterone had significant improvement in sleep efficiency - faster sleep onset, fewer awakenings, and more then 40 minutes more total time sleeping throughout the night - compared with those in the conventional Hormone Replacement group.

The only testosterone "FDA" approved for women is an oral pill called Estratest.  This dangerous drug has been around for decades.  It's marginally effective for hot flashes and is too risky for long term use.  Estratest active Pseudotestosterone is Methyltestosterone  a patented derivative of natural testosterone.  This testosterone does not do well with the liver.  It causes liver failure, liver cancer, blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, and other disorders.  Can you see any justification why the FDA continues to allow this drug on the market for women.  Don't fool yourself!  Not all drugs approved by the FDA are safe and Many patented non bio-identical hormones should "not" be on the market.

In men, testosterone replacement has well-documented benefits not only for libido and sexuality, but also for such nonsexual factors as a general sense of well-being, mood, energy level, bone and muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function.  Women also have been shown to have some nonsexual benefits (of course they have sexual benefits too) such as:

• Enhanced sense of well-being
• Reduced fatigue
• Less depression
• Lower risk of osteoporosis
• Increased lean body mass and reduced fat tissue mass
• Improved cognitive, lower risk of dementia
• Reduced risk of breast cancer
  

Women must get testosterone from a Compounding Pharmacy because women only need about 3-5% of what men need.   There are no Bio-identical testosterone pharmaceuticals for women.

One the greatest ways women know that menopause has "HIT" them is the way their skin looks.  Within a few months after the onset of menopause, the skin (the body's largest organ) may start to age.  The skin becomes thinner, drier, less elastic, and more easily bruised.  Over time it may start to sag, wrinkles may deepen, wounds don't heal as well.  The skin effects are the "FIRST" real outward sign of menopause.  This is why women who do Bio-identical hormones can feel so good but also "LOOK" so good. I often will recommend women consider Estriol cream topically for the face - to improve the health and vitality of the face.

Not surprising, the prevalence of "Urinary Incontinence"  (leaking urine) increases with age.  Recent research revealed a prevalence of "UI" of 28% in younger women and more than 50% in women in their 60's and older.  Depression also rises as the severity of "UI" increases. Medical science  has known for a long time that the best treatment for "Urinary Incontinence" is estrogen replacement.  Specifically Estriol .5mg given by cream to the vaginal area will significantly reduce Recurrent urinary tract infections in the "UI" group of women. 

Women have had their ovaries removed with Hysterectomy as a routine far to often - The practice and attitude can be traced to the early 1980's after a Swedish survey  predicted a 10% reduction in ovarian cancer incidence in women over 40 --- The sad fact is that this forgets about all the functions the ovaries continue to do even after menopause developes.  Healthy postmenopausal ovaries continue secreting testosterone and androstenedione, perhaps for the rest of a woman's life, a series of studies from the Mayo Clinic showed a link with higher risks of Cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, cognitive impairment and dementia, Parkinson's disease, a decline in sexual function and psychological well-being, as well as premature death.  I think it is obvious -- leave those ovaries if they are "not" diseased!!!! 

Iodine - It is very important nutrient we need every day - Much as been written about this.  I recently reviewed a study from New Zealand that looked at several hundred children with Cognitive issues and documented iodine deficiencies.  These children were split into "placebo (group with nothing)" and treatment group with Iodine.  After several months of treatment the children were retested on Cognitive skills and there was a satistical improvement.  How does this related to adults.  Most of us don't get enough iodine and this affects the thyroid.  So get a natural iodine supplement and start taking it - You may feel smarter and your thyroid will work better.

Zinz may be low in many people and is one of the items I recommend for men who have low testosterone.  Certain food have zinc - wheat, soy, and sugar.  12 raw pumpkin seeds give your daily zinc.  Having adequate zinc boost your energy level.

How do we relieve stress?
Exercise releases Dopamine-Epinephrine-Seratonin - These are all antidepressants and will relieve stress - Remember yesterday's tip - "increase stress increase Belly Fat"
Massage will also reduce stress, headaches, and improve mood, quality of sleep and immune function.
Conclusion: Exercise daily if you are under stress and get regular massages.
AVOID: Pharmaceutical drugs when there are none drug treatments that work and have NO side effects.

Yale University released a study (which those of us in a more integrated practice are aware of) that people under alot of stress release more cortisol.  The extra cortisol will cause you to have excess "ABDOMINAL FAT".
I hear this complaint all the time.  What else is effected?  The elevated cortisol will, over time, impact your thyroid. This is the issue for the andropausal and menopausal patients in the most common complaint = "DOCTOR I AM GAINING WEIGHT AND ALL IN MY MIDDLE"

Get a PEDOMETER - This a device that many Sport stores have.  The average person takes far fewer that 4,000 steps a day - well under a mile. This is not enough to burn calories or maintain health.  No one expects you to count your steps, but you can get a handy device called a pedometer that will track how much you walk.  It costs less than $20, and you can clip it on your clothes.  The American Heart Association recommends 10,000 steps per day as a minimum for all Americans. So get out there and start walking.

Sleep is a major way of preventing major disease states. About 40 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders; that is they report difficulty sleeping at night. Many report taking sleeping medication.  Ambien - a pharmaceutical favorite is NOT a natural sleep aid.  I see patients on this drug and most have extreme difficulty in stopping Ambien if they have used Ambien for any prolonged time.  Using a compounded Sustained Release Melatonin is a natural sleep aid.  Lack of sleep --- Consider these points

1. Are you Overcaffeinated?
2. No smoking at Night -- obviously quitting is best.  Nicotine is a stimulant and will interfere with sleep. 
3. Pass on the Nightcap - Alcohol will put you to sleep but it will interfere with the deepest phases of sleep and causes frequent nighttime awakenings.
4. Exercise - to a point - Lack of exercise is a major cause of insomnia.  A serious workout will interfere with sleep.
5. Stress - Under alot of stress you produce hormones that will interfere with good sleep.

MEN AND AGING --Fear of prostrate cancer is the leading reason why men have been reluctant to restore their Free Testosterone to youthful ranges.  There is no basis for this fear.  What has been found is that men with low testosterone appear to be more likely to contract prostate cancer.  To further dispel the myth; Blood test analysis of free testosterone levels in aging men showed that low free testosterone increased PSA levels. There is alot of variability among men on Free Testosterone levels.  Some 60 year old men may still have youthful Free Testosterone Levels, while others have dangerously low levels.  Don't guess - get your levels done and address it. 

MEN AND AGING -- Cardiac drugs generate huge profits for pharmaceutical companies.  These companies face huge losses if too many Americans start to use Natural hormones and reduce reliance on prescripton drugs.  So what about young men?  There was a study showing even men under 45 who have testosterone below 17pg/ml had a 3 fold greater risk of developing premature coronary artery disease compared with men who had Free Testosterone levels above 17pg/ml.

MEN AND AGING --  Can we predict you risk of dying when your Hormones are not optimal -- YES!!
Life Extension reported a landmark study on men suffering from chronic heart failure.  The numbers below reflect survival for 3 years.

1. High levels of DHEA, Testosterone, Growth Hormone - 83% survival
2. Deficiency in one hormone - 74% survival
3. Deficiency in two hormones - 55% survival
4. Deficiency in three hormones - 27% survival

CONCLUSION -- The more you allow you hormones to age to low levels the closer you go to your demise!

MEN AND AGING --  HDL Cholesterol and Free Testosterone levels plummet in aging men.  This combination virtually guarantees an "EXPLOSION" in heart disease with vascular stents and drugs that earn Tens of Billions of dollars in profits for the pharmaceutical companies.Under optimal situation HDL efficiently removes cholesterol from the arterial walls - transports the cholesterol to the liver for elimination.  When there is testosterone deficiency HDL is less efficient in removing cholesterol and the liver is less efficient in breaking cholesterol down and getting rid of it.

MEN AND AGING --  HDL cholesterol protects against heart attacks.  Testosterone helps the HDL remove cholesterol from the arterial wall.  HDL returns cholesterol to the liver - this is done with a process called reverse cholesterol transport. Testosterone addes to this process and is one of testosterones unique and life saving action against heart disease. Men can reduce cholesterol by healthier diets and taking certain drugs, but testosterone is required for optimal transport of cholesterol.

MEN AND AGING --  The number one killer in this country is Heart Disease - If men start paying attention to their testosterone blood levels more then their cholesterol levels they could reduce their heart disease.  Testosterone protects against HEART ATTACKS -- (DOCTORS need to wake-up and realize cholesterol medications are a BILLION DOLLAR PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY BOOM!) -- Statin drugs are "not" Primary Prevention of Heart Disease. Check the health tip tommorow to see how testosterone works in the cholesterol picture.

MEN AND AGING --  How do men present with early symptoms of Testosterone decline? Testosterone deficit can manifest in the form of psychological disturbances such as depression---- Reduced sexual desire ----Loss of sense of well being.  Ask for a FREE TESTOSTERONE level and know the level you want -- 20-25pg/ml.  Some lab will call levels as little at 7pg/ml of Free testosterone normal.  This is "absurb" -- Just because an average 70 year may have this level does not make it GOOD.  Men need healthy 25 year old levels.

Testosterone and Men---MEN AND AGING -- The big key is the loss of healthy levels of Testosterone.  As testosterone levels decline in men, their risk of dying markedly increases!!  Heart disease - Osteoporosis - Muscle wasting are markedly increased with Testosterone deficiency. Most doctors are not aware that men with low testosterone show an increase incidence of prostrate cancer.  Unfortunately some Doctors even think that replacement of the healthy 25 year old levels will cause prostrate cancer ---WRONG!!!!!!!! --- 30 YEARS OF DATA REVIEW SHOW CLEARLY TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT IS ALL GOOD.  Men who do replacement have no increase risk of cancer.

Free radicals are the highly reactive molecules - created by environmental toxins, the foods we eat and our own metabolism.  We also know that free radicals are harmful, as a mountain of research - more than 40,000 published studies - show they create a foothold for many of the undesirable effects of aging.  
There are standard antioxidants that do some nutritional benefits - there seems to be a particular oxidative enzyme inducer that may be extremely potent - This was developed at the University of Utah - made up of Curcumin - Milk Thistle - Bacopa - Ashwagandha - green tea - So I do encourage everyone to research this out -- This combined product is called Protandim and is Being looked at by 14 major Universities -Including Univ. of Michigan, Vanderbilt Univ., Univ. of Florida. 

What some of the studies on DHEA?????

1. 1. DHEA was found to be beneficial in treating Lupus patients.
   2. DHEA treats depression and improves memory and DHEA lowered cortisol levels.
   3. DHEA restores well being, increases bone density and decreased vaginal drynes.
   4. DHEA reduces LDL, cholesterol and body fat.
   5. The goal of replacement therapy is to restore DHEA to the upper level of normal of a young adult range.  Those patients experience a reduction in fatigue, improvement in mood and psychological well being.
   
   

What is DHEA?

DHEA is a steroid hormone and precursor of androgens (testosterone).  The adrenal glands produce the majority of DHEA present.  For women a small amount comes from the ovaries.  DHEA levels decrease as we age.  By the time you are 80 years old, the amount of DHEA produced by your body is only 5-10% of what your produced in your 20's and 30's.  

MANY CLAIMS have been linked to DHEA:

• Increase your energy
• Help you to lose weight
• Slow down the aging process
• Boost your immune system
• Reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease
• Improve your memory

Side effects were reported by 20% of participants, such as greasy skin, acne, and increased body hair. So it is important to have monitoring and doses should be individually managed because tolerance is quite different patient to patient.  Most men tolerate significantly higher doses then women.  Some women need very low doses such as 5mg compared to men who could tolerate 75-100mg.

Why is vitamin D so important?
Vitamin D does more than just make healthy bones - at least 36 other tissue types also have receptors for Vitamin D.  Studies reveal that low levels of vitamin D are linked to multiple sclerosis, some types of cancer, psoriasis, muscle weakness, the inflammatory response, adiposity/obesity, glucose intolerance, diabetes, autoimmune disease, schizophrenia, depression, lung dysfunction, kidney disease, abnormal lipid profile and high blood pressure. 
Because this Vitamin acts like a hormone vs a vitamin - "Vitamin D may exert its effects directly through the modulation of gene expression, via activation of vitamin D receptors, or through the regulation of intracellular and extracellular calcium.

TEST YOUR VITAMIN D-25-HYDROXY - and optimize your number by blood to about 60 ng/ml

Adult Vitamin D Deficiency: Where can it lead?

• Osteopenia
• Osteoporosis
• Muscle Weakness
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic Pain
• Fractures
• Common Cancers
• Autoimmune Disease
• Infectious Disease
• Cardiovascular Disease

CONCLUSION: TAKE SUPPLEMENTAL QUALITY VITAMIN D3

Safeguard Your Health with Adequate Vitamin D Intake

• By far, the best dietary source of vitamin D is fatty fish, salmon and sardines,
• But note: Even a diet made up completely of fish would fall far short of the amount of vitamin D you need.
• And if you think your multivitamin and/or vitamin D supplement has you covered you may be surprised.
• Many experts believe the recommended dosages quotes on the vitamin bottle are way too low when it comes to vitamin D.
•  A daily dose of 5,000 units (make sure its vitamin D3) is sufficient for most people, but its important to periodically test blood serum levels to be sure.
  
  

Are you at risk?  According to recent data, the majority of us suffer from insufficient "Vitamin D" - Researchers in a 2009 study published in the "Archives of Internal Medicine" tested 13,369 people in the U.S. and found that only 23% had sufficient levels of vitamin D, revealing a shocking 50% decrease from 19 years ago when the same survey found 45% had sufficient levels.  Why is this? Well the problem is most of us don't get enough direct sunlight to fulfill our vitamin D requirements because of concerns about skin cancer and skin damage, less time spent outdoors and low light quality in winter and extreme latitudes.  Keep in mind that sunscreens, clothing and glass block the sun's ability to aid in the manufacture of vitamin D.

"GET YOUR VITAMIN D LEVELS CHECKED AND REPLACE VITAMIN D WITH GOOD QUALITY D3 TO HEALTHY LEVELS.  Vitamin D is needed for your bones and many other body systems" 

I frequently see the ads on "Life style Life" - a modified face-life that does look beautiful - BUT - looking younger (no matter how you do this) does not matter if the inside is not corrected to stop the many hormonal changes of aging.  One of the ways women are dismissed is by the statement, "you are getting older" -- This is true - but exercise and proper nutrition can maintain our bodies.  Correcting our hormones will effect our energy, mood, sleep problems etc. If you are hormonally vulnerable, replacement can help, but one size does not fit all and the adjustment you need must be done by a physician who understands correcting each hormone.  

Common Symptoms caused by Hormones

• Changes in thoughts and feelings
• Weight problems
• Changes in skin and hair
• Bodily discomforts
• Changes in the menstrual cycle
• Changes in the pelvic region and vagina

I see and hear many "remedies" for menopausal hot flashes from over the counter supplements and food types - vs - over the counter progesterone creams.  The real answer is a "Holistic" approach.  All hormones need to be revaluated and corrected.  Sadly, there is no limit on how many hormonal symptoms a women may have. Menopause is NOT just HOT FLASHES -- If you have several hormonal disturbances, you need help for all of them together. If you don't feel the same as what you did in yours 20's and 30's then menopause "may" be the cause of some of what you are experiencing 
  

There are 14 "DAGGERS" of Heart Disease Development

1. Low EPA/DHA - low intake of Fish Oil
2. Elevated Homocysteine - AN INFLAMMATORY MARKER
3. Low Free Testosterone - protect your heart and replace this
4. Elevated C-reactive protein - AN INFLAMMATORY MARKER
5. Excessive Triglycerides -  (cholesterol)
6. Excessive LDL - (cholesterol)
7. Excessive Fibrinogen
8. Excessive Insulin
9. Low HDL (good cholesterol)
10. High Sugar (glucose)
11. Excessive Cholesterol
12. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
13. Low Vitamin K
14. Nitric Oxide Deficit -- this is corrected by ideal testosterone-

Many of these items will be helped by Bio-identical Hormone replacement in idealizing your hormones and the rest by proper diet and supplements.  Americans must understand pharmaceutical  drugs are not the answer to a healthy nation.

The incidence of hair thinning in women is 20% of women in their thirties and 40% of women by the time they are 70.   How do you know if you are losing hair - if you "think" you are the answer is probably -YES.  

For Menopausal women - estrogen nurtures hair just like it nutures breasts, uterus, blood vessels, and many other tissues in a womens's body. Under its influence hair grows faster and stays on the head longer - producing a more luxuriant head of hair.  The hair friendly action of estrogen is why so many women notice that their hair is so much better with pregnancy and after delivery they have extra hair loss.  Again hormone influence on hair is all about balance.   The group of women who have Hyperresponsiveness to their own production of testosterone (prior to menopause) will also often deal with hair loss. 

The most distressing hormone problem women will present with is "HAIR LOSS" - I have seen women present with no hair under arms - no leg hair - no pubic hair and severe loss of hair on their heads that they wear a wig.  Often this is due to the severe state of their lack of hormones in general but specifically their thyroid.  There is a common condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.  This is an autoimmune disease - causing damage to the thyroid.  Tests are not just TSH - the most common thyroid test ordered - but antithyroid antibodies and Free T3 - Free T4 and Reverse T3 - this will give a picture that guides a physician to do proper replacement.  But, you must work with a physician who is willing to optimize you levels to a healthy 25 year old level and "DOES NOT" use Synthroid or Levothyroid.  I recently saw a patient who after 6 months of Dessicated thyroid (change from Synthroid) had lost 30 pounds and stopped wearing hair extensions.  An antidotal story but one that shows what can happen in balancing a patient with the correct hormone at the corrrect doses.    

I frequently hear patients complain they can't lose weight due to their "slow" metabolism -

1. Strength training twice a week will reverse 50% of metabolism slow down that occurs with age. (Plus - women lose 80% of upper body muscle strength by age 80 without a program)
2. Optimizing all your hormones give you the benefit of ideal Thyroid - DHEA - Testosterone - Estradiol -Progesterone-Melatonin to have the vigor you need to do the strength training
3. Idealize you Vitamins - B12 - Vitamin D and this will also aid in the overall program to take years off your metabolism and aid in the program to lose weight.
 

Natural Relief of "Heart Burn" - Use if you have NO pathology in your stomach -(you have no history of Ulcer-causing bacteria - no bleeding ulcers - no reflux causing damage to the esophagus - no zollinger-ellison syndrome) 

Most people with acid indigestion can be relieved by

1. Avoid heartburn-triggering foods
2. Stay upright for a few hours after you eat (no late big meals)
3. No intensive workout immediately after eating
4. Eat small meals (5-6 small portions of fruit-veggies-meat)  Eat you largest meal by 2pm
5. Don't smoke -Reduce caffeine and alcohol --  (this increases acid and lowers the lower esophageal sphincter that prevents reflux)
6. Don't eat quickly
7. Wear loose-fitting clothes
8. Find way to relax
9. Aim to lose any extra pounds
10. Chewing gum increases the production of saliva
11. Bend at the knees not the waist
12. Elevate the head of you bed 6 inches - try a wedge pillow 

Remember taking a drug you don't need increases you risk of other problems. 

Wishing everyone a Safe and Healthy  "MEMORIAL DAY"

Remember as you may indulge in those memorial day picnics, taking heartburn relief drugs pose risk

One study found 74% percent increase in risk of infection with a harmful backeria called Clostridium difficile for those taking daily presciption-strenght "heart-burn" drugs or "PPI'S" - another found 25% increase risk of fractures in postmenopausal women who used these drugs.  Natural lifestyle changes can make a difference and I will cover these tomorrow. 

The maker of Conjugated Equiline (horse) estogen just did a comparison study to Supplements over the counter for Menopausal hot flashes.  The results were in the favor of the Pharmaceutical Synthetic Hormones.  Are we surprised?? In the study it is never mentioned the dangers involved with synthetic hormones and this is exactly the point.  The more "Synthetic Hormone Manufactures" can point out their products virtues; then the more they hope Physicians will forget their harm.  Just like the studies on Bisphosphonates -Fosamax and others- show increase in Bone.  Unfortunately, all is not so "rosy".  Trials lasting up to 10 years are beginning to raise doubts on the long-term safety and efficacy.  The action of these drugs may create little "pits" in the bone structure.  As studies (not funded by the pharmaceutical companies) are being done, concerns of quality of bone - on lack of healing in bone fracture and  deterioration in bone health was almost certainly due to Fosamx.

Lack of sleep linked to early death!!
Sleep is the number "1" vitamin.  People who get less than six hours of sleep have an increased risk of dying prematurely. If you sleep less than 6 hours you are 12% more likely to die early.  There was also a link between more than 9 hours sleep and early death, but "oversleeping" is more likely to be an effect of illness.  20% of the U.S. population sleeps less than "five" hours.  The link between sleep and death is "HORMONES".  The researchers stated "little sleep" impacts the series of hormonal and metabolic mechanisms that will lead to early death. Remember that "Melatonin" can help induce sleep and "Growth Hormone" is made while we sleep.

As I speak to women, many have a "fear" of hormones.  Either because of "missinformation" about hormones  ex: - estrogen causes cancer - not true!  The use of "Unnatural hormones" -- those that are made from Pregnant Horses Urine ex: Premarin; cause clot which leads to Heart Attacks and Stroke.  Other synthetic hormones like  Provera "do" cause increase risk for CANCER.  Synthoid that does not cause cancer "does not" relieve the symtoms of Hypothyroidism; women will still complain of hair loss, fatigue, weight gain and depression.  There is a general mistrust of the medical community because so many pharmaceutical drugs have side effects and myself and many other Doctors have used them thinking we were doing the "right thing" in treating diseases.  Unfortunately many of these Pharmaceutical drugs are now showing more problems then they ever solved. 
But, the good news -- "Evidence Based Medicine" has shown us the direction we need to go.  "Replace your hormones with Bio-identical Hormones (the exact replica you always made) and to the lab levels that prevent disease.  Seek a physician who will provide this care and give you the evidence behind the recommendations that are made. "
  

I see patients every day who present with such states of fatigue - weight gain - insomnia - hair loss - no libido -"mental fog" - depression - and simply "a loss of pleasure in their day by day life.  Yet their physicians tell them "your lab is normal and this is "normal" aging.  In fact one patient stated their physicians said "relax and get used to it".  To the credit of many patients out there - people are seeking answers and solutions not being done by the majority of the medical community.  How much better is it to replace Testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, DHEA, Thyroid, and melatonin to the healthy lab of a 25 year old then to accept the lab "normal" of a 50 - 60 - 70 - and 80 year old.  No one has to be a physician to know that healthy 25 year olds function over 80 year olds.  So remember when your Doctor tells you your lab is normal on your hormones remember it is based on your age and not the optimal levels to function as a healthy 25 year old does. 

Reference: Natural Homone Replacement by Neal Rouzier, M.D. order via Medquest Pharmacy: 1-888-222-2956

Hormones and aging -------

Melatonin is available "over the counter" or by "perscription."

There are over 2500 published papers documenting DHEA's Health benefits.  We produce 1/2 of our DHEA by age 40 and as we age; some patients will produce "NO" DHEA.  Patients receiving DHEA slept better, had more energy, and were better equipped to handle stress.  Other benefits of DHEA include immune enhancement, anti-cancer effects, anti-atherosclerotic effects, anti-depression, life extension, and cognitive enhancement.  So as we finish this week on DHEA - remember:

1. Check your blood level
2. You need a compounded or Pharmaceutical grade DHEA.
3. Most over the counter DHEA does not last a full 24 hours when you take it as a supplement.
   
   

Women and dementia

The myth that one "can't afford" to eat healthyfully is merely an excuse and, quite simply, untrue.  The Journal of the American Dietetic Association, a survey of 637 foods by a nutrient -to-price ratio compared with calorie-to-price ratio, showed fruits and vegetables did significantly better. So it is cheaper to eat those fruits and veggies then that "cheese cake and big mac".

The bigger savings is the one that saves you the risk of being one of the millions of Americans that will have a stroke or Heart attack.

If a women does not have a serum "Free Testosterone" the same as a healthy 25 year old then all the benefits - Bone, sexual, "feel good" benefits, will not be there.  In fact the treatment regime for "Osteopenia" -early bone loss should be:

• Calcium + K2 + Minerals +magnesium
• Vitamin D3
• Estradiol
• Progesterone
• Testosterone
• DHEA

This regime will restore the bone and the patient will have vigor, sexuality returned, vaginal health, energy and NOT deal with all the side effects of the Bisphosphonates (fosamax, boniva etc).  I have seen Osteoporotic women gain  >10% in 2 years time on their bone densities.  Doesn't it make sense to give the body back what it had in youth!

What about Women and Testosterone?

Testosterone is an important Bio-identical hormone that needs to be addressed in the postmenopausal female.  Testosterone in postmenopausal women will help in the "balance of the Estrogen-progesterone" to aid in the protection against breast cancer. The androgen effect helps to "down-regulate" any developement of abnormal tissue in the breast and reduce risk of breast cancer development.
The true prevention of breast cancer and uterine cancer is the word "BALANCE" -- it is the unbalanced state of women entering menopause, in which they have lack of progesterone and the unbalanced state of 10% of premenopausal women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome that add risk for these women in getting uterine and breast cancer.

How often will men see signs of low Testosterone?

• Age 50's ---- 9%
• Age 80's ---- 91%

You see the progression --- So if you have healthy 25 year old levels at age 50 -- GREAT! But, check your levels yearly and treat when the levels start to fall.  Men with Testosterone levels <241 ng/dl were 44% more likely to die than those in the higher levels >370 ng/dl.  The group was followed for approximately 12 years.  Low Testosterone was an independent risk - meaning outside of age, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, alcohol use, smoking and exercise.
It is easy to see how Testosterone replacement can be a life saving hormone for men!

Life span has increased during the second half of the 20th century, but "most" of this increase was in years of "disability".  Unfortunately you as the consumer cannot rely on the standard medical community to guide you in active steps to address aging and reduce "disability" -- The standard medical model is to treat disease.  Medical conditions related to Low Testosterone:

• HEART DISEASE
• METABOLIC SYNDROME
• DIABETES
• ALZHEIMERS DISEASE

If you are 40 and up -- Ask your Doctor to draw your "Free Testosterone level" -- Don't accept "normal" for your age - Look at the normals of a healthy 25 year old and that is your goal.

Per the New York Times 1-17-2010: "Mainstream medicine does not embrace the idea of male menopause (andropause)."  But would any 45 and older male say that all "things" are just as good as in their 20's.  Signs & Symptoms of Andropause:

• Decreased Energy
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Increasing Fatigue
• Reduced Bone Density
• Decreased Motivation
• Moodiness
• Reduced libido
• Irritability
• Decreased Mental Clarity
• Decreased Cognitive
• Depression

This is not to say all men get "all" of these items but for medicine to ignore the issues of male aging connection to progressive loss of Optimal testosterone levels is a injustice to men. (and their partners)

If you think the "FDA" protects the American public vs their "Friends" the pharmaceutical companies, take a look at this:
According to the "FDA" there's no data supporting the safety or efficacy of bio-identical hormones, especailly estriol.  Well, the NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE reported a "Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of Postmenapausal women with recurrent Urinary Infections (due to the severe effects of hormone loss).  Results: over 8 months there was a 1000% "decline" in urinary infections.  Keep in mind the pharmaceutical companies "don't" have a patented estriol and this must be obtained from a compounding pharmacy at a cost of <$20 per month vs the pharmaceutical drug that cost 10 times that amount (and doesn't do the job as well)!!!!

A Harvard Study of almost 5000 men/women age 65 and older gave questionaires and physicals to the subjects, low risk groups were the following Lifestyle factors:

• Above average consumption of dietary fiber
• Never smoked
• Modest Alcohol consumption
• Not Overweight (BMI=<25) Women waist<35 Men waist<36
• Physical activity: walking regularly
  

DIABETES RATE DROPPED SUBSTANTIALLY FOR COMBINED LIFESTYLE FACTORS

In multiple studies on the effect of sex hormones - estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, progesterone, there has been significant enhancement of mood and/or relief of depression.  It seems the current medical community has forgotten how the brain is controlled by the hormones we produce when we are young.  Instead, the standard of care is now controlled by the pharmaceutical companies which persuade Doctors to use "antidepressants" for everything --- sleep, hot flashes, chronic fatigue, etc.  How sad that all the natural physiology we learn as Doctors is forgotten when it comes to the function of the brain.
Nothing beats replacing our hormones with optimal levels of Bio-identical hormones.  Your body and brain will function to the best ability that God designed.

The head of Epidemiology at University of Milan stated in an interview, "What can be achieved with breast screening as been achieved.  We cann't do much more.  It's time to move on to other things."  Up to 1/3 of breast cancer cases in Western countries could be avoided if women ate less and exercised more.  "The genes have been there for thousands of years, yet breast cancer rates are increasing."  Conclusion: Get your weight to normal BMI <25 and exercise daily -- 10,000 steps or 3 miles day.  For those women who are menapausal: use Progesterone to increase your P-53 gene that can kill those cancer cells if they develop.

Did you know that B12 is a water soluble vitamin and is key in normal functioning of the "Brain" and "Central nervous system".  Have you had your blood B12 level checked?  Ideal is the "Upper" level of the lab.  For most labs this is about 1000 and up.  You are able to correct your B12 level to optimal levels yourself.  You are able to replace this with B12 sublingual over the counter.  Purchase B12 called "Methylcobalamin B12".  Methylcobalamin B12 is the form your body needs.

High Fructose corn syrup is "addicting"!  The more you eat the more you want.  High Fructose corn syrup is in so many drinks and foods.  This artificial sugar can add to the risk of Obesity, Diabetes, and Hypertension.   Hypertension can lead to Heart Disease.   Look at those labels -- avoid those artificial "killers"  Remember 2 out of 3 Americans will have a stroke or Heart attack. 

Your intestinal system is a primary method of elimination of "toxic" waste in your body. You should be having a bowl movement after every major meal.  Many people suffer from chronic constipation.  To keep your system moving eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Make sure you have at least 64 ounces of water during the day.

Published in Natural Medicine (15-145-146: 2009)
People who take "SSRI's" - Prozac, Lexapro, etc. have a decrease in Bone growth.  Bone metabolism has "Osteoclastic"activity and "Osteoblastic" activity. "SSRI's" effect this activity balance.  

Well Ladies - what about our brains.  There has been controversial reports on Dementia and Hormone Replacement Therapy.  There is a study (1.889 women) that use premarin and provera (non- Bio-identical) that showed a 59% reduction in Alzheimers, even using the non-bioidentical.  What we are seeing in the data is the sooner Bio-identicals are started from menapause the greater the reduction of dementia.  If Hormones are started >10 years out there was little protection against dementia.

Though most women are menopausal about age 50, many women will start hormone imbalances in their early to mid-30's.  For about 10% of women they will have hormone imbalances from their teens on.  When a women has shortening of their cycles it can mean a decline in progesterone production and this can start the cycle of increase risk for Cancer, infertility, increase depression, PMS and many more complaints.

All women should have natural bio-identical Progesterone.
Yes all women - This hormone fights cancer and kills cancer. I recently received an email commenting on a study from The "British Medical Journal" that linked the increase in Risk of Breast cancer recurrence and death to the use of TAMOXIFEN AND PAXIL. Why not copy Nature? What are there not studies following women with Breast Cancer on "Natural Cancer Fighter"? Such studies cost millions to run and the pharmaceutical companies have not money to make on something easily found in nature. So the money is placed in "patented" pharmaceutical drugs. Does it sould like we are dealing with the "banking" industry all over again. We the consumer pay for Patented drugs - don't we deserve to have the BEST treatment given to us?

All women should have natural bio-identical Progesterone - safe to use in large doeses in the first trimester of of pregnancy

Some of Progesterone's many important roles in the human female body:

• Acts as a natural antidepressant
• Promotes bone building
• Acts as a natural diuretic  (promotes urination)
• Promotes fat burning
•  Aids thyroid hormone action
• Promotes cell oxygen
• Helps keep blood sugar levels normal
• Promotes the Embroyo
• Maintains the lining of the uterus
• Protects against Cancer
• May help maintain sex drive
• Protects breasts
• Normalizes blood clotting
• Protects uterus
• Normalizes zinc and copper levels

The large study on NON-BIOIDENTICAL hormones -"Womens Heath Initiative Study" demonstrated the risks of Premarin and Provera.  In fairness to Bio-Identical hormones there have been a number of European and Asian studies that have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of Bio-identical hormones.

Unfortunately, because "Bio-identical" hormones do not have FDA approval, because they are readily available, and don't have the monitary advantages of the patented "NON-BIOIDENTICAL" they remain under attack.  Often the Bio-Identical hormones are placed in the category of Prempro and other pseudohormonal treatments.  Interestingly, we must remember "Nature" has approved bio-identical hormones as long as there as been men and women.

I recently heard a commentary on the issue of "Estrogen" dominance from "Teresa Heiz Kerry on Larry King" -- She was  diagnosed with Breast cancer and blamed her "Estrogen" dominate state for this event.  The implication is that Estrogen is "bad".  This is NOT the case!  "IMBALANCE" of hormones is the problem.  There is a gene called the P53 gene.  The P53 gene blocks formation of cancer.  This gene is found at the highest levels during mid cycle when "progesterone" is at its peak.  Only natural progesterone molecules kill cancer cells and stimulate the P53 gene.  So when women enter their 40 and early 50's they are still producing lots of estrogen but have insufficient progesterone. Progesterone increases the P53 gene and kills cancer cells!
Estrogen has many health benefits from favorable changes in muscle tone, wrinkles, hair texture, libido,reduce incidence of Alzheimers, reduce incidence in stroke and heart attack, reduce incidence in vision loss, and prevention of osteoporosis. Bottom line.

• Estrogen does not cause cancer
• Progesterone protects against cancer
  
  

What part of the thyroid hormone should you be aware of?
Answer: Free T3

All of our hormones are responsible for many jobs and keeping us in good health.  When thyroid is "non-optimal" the body can suffer from high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, sluggish thought process, memory impairment, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, muscle cramping, menstral adnormalities and changes in hair, skin, and nails.  Many patients will see a number of physicians with a vast number of complaints.  If they are started on medication often it will be "SYNTHETIC" (synthroid, levoxyl,T4). Once on this regime many patients will "NOT" be corrected.

As women age and are dealing with the symptoms of Menopause and perimenopause, symptoms of "nonoptimal" thyroid function are also there.  If a women is only treated with Estrogen and Progesterone to eliminate menopausal symptoms the decrease in thyroid hormone may make many symptoms persist.  Optimal thyroid function will give you the energy you need, restore your hair loss, allow you to optimize your weight, restore your memory and for many patients ---- give them life back.

Lets talk about "thyroid"