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ASK
DAVID - FAQ'S
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| Ask David
What is the herb that helps control PMS?
While the mineral calcium
in the past was the recommended supplement (1200 mg/day)
to help decrease the symptoms of PMS, a new study points
to the herb chaste tree berry (or vitex) as the latest
weapon to help women during these challenging days of
the month. A study in Germany, completed with a group
that took 20 mg of vitex daily, along with one given a
placebo, showed a marked decrease in regard to mood
swings, irritability and anger in more than half of the
herb-consuming group. A decrease in headaches and breast
tenderness also occurred with the group taking vitex.
You had stated once
about combining certain supplements for brain power.
What were they?
A study in the journal
Psychopharmacology of almost 260 adults found that
those taking 200 mg of panax ginseng and 120 mg ginkgo
biloba daily improved their scores relating to
recongition, spatial, and recall tests by almost eight
percent. Those taking a placebo showed no improvement at
all. If you are currently taking any medications,
check with your doctor before beginning herbal
supplementation.
Can Quercetin help
with allergies?
While I have never seen
an actual study with people on the effect of Quercetin
and allergies, many holistic practitioners report
remarkable success with 500 mg of this antioxidant taken
2 - 3 times per day. A study in Japan showed a positive
result when Quercetin was tested in the cells of
our mucous membranes, as this bioflavinoid was shown to
inhibit the release of histamine. Histamine is one of
several chemicals that produces symptoms such as
allergic rashes and runny noses.
Can peppermint oil
help with stomach problems like irritable bowel
syndrome?
Peppermint oil, either in
the form of essential oil (found in health food stores)
or capsule (Enzymatic Therapy offers an excellent
supplement) has been used by many to help with the
abdominal cramping associated with IBS and Chrohn's
Disease. Tim Koch, M.D., from West Virginia University,
School of Medicine, stated in an article recently that
this oil may benefit individuals with these conditions
by blocking the contractions of the muscle surrounding
the intestines and stomach. Just one drop of the oil in
a cup of water, consumed 20 minutes before a meal or at
the first sign of symptoms, may offer relief. Please
check with your doctor before adding any new therapies
to your health regimen. Avoid this remedy if you
currently are pregnant or suffer from heartburn, unless
you get clearance from your physician.
Is there any
relationship between osteoporosis and hormone levels or
declining hormonal levels?
In a recent copy of Dr.
Julian Whitaker's newsletter, he spoke about a French
study correlating osteoporosis and diminished levels of
the hormone DHEA. In this study of approximately 300 men
and women with osteoporosis, half received 50 mg of DHEA
daily and half received a placebo. After six months,
bone loss decreased by 11% in the women's DHEA group and
by an astonishing 26% after one year. However, there
were no changes in the men who supplemented with DHEA.
Can ginseng help with
male problems regarding erection?
As always, check with a
urologist to eliminate any medical conditions that may
cause this type of problem. A few years ago the
International Journal of Impotence Research showed that
panax ginseng helped to improve erectile disfunction in
almost 60% of one study's clients. You may also consider
the supplement MACA (Nature's Way has an excellent
version of this which contains 450 mg of a standardized
concentrate extract).
Recently you spoke
about nutritional supplements for helping people with
high blood sugar and diabetes. Have you heard of any
benefits from using Fenugreek?
Yes, but before I
continue please make sure to always check with your
doctor prior to adding anything to your diabetic
routine. A story published in the European Journal of
Clinical Nutrition looked at two groups of people
with type 1 diabetes (insulin dependent). One group
consumed 50 grams of Fenugreek twice a day; the other
group received nothing. The group with the Fenugreek
supplementation had a greater than 50% reduction of
glucose in their urine when tested at the end of the
day, as well as a significant reduction in total
cholesterol. Another study in Plant Foods for Human
Nutrition showed positive results when utilizing
this herb as well.
I haven't heard much
about Gingko recently, is it still promoted by herbal
experts?
Some supplements fall out
of favor by herbal experts after their initial exciting
introduction, but Gingko is not one of those. Dr. James
Duke in a recent interview in Natural Health
magazine (December 2000) rates this herb as one of his
eight favorites. Gingko's ability to increase blood flow
to the body's extremities and brain helps to sustain
sexual health as well as sharper mental functioning.
Consider taking 120 mg/day of a standardized extract
from a reputable company. Avoid this herb if you
currently are taking anticoagulant drugs.
What was the
recommended dosage of melatonin you suggested for sleep
aid?
Several years ago, the
normal dosage recommended was 3 - 5 milligrams. A recent
study reported at
Endocrine
Society's Annual Conference stated at totally
different amount . . . 1/3 of a milligram (or 300
micrograms). At this level, they saw a decrease in
nightmares and/or the "hangover" effect that occurred at
higher dosages. Nature's Way brand puts out a 500mcg
sublingual product that may be a good choice.
Please let me know the
benefits, if any, of Colostrum.
The immune system
enhancing effects of Colostrum. Colostrum (the
supplement is actually derived from cows, but it is
nearly identical to that produced by women) is the
breast fluid produced within the first 30-40 hours after
delivering. Studies have shown its effectiveness against
fungal infection, diarrhea and possibly ulcers. It seems
to be especially effective for those with chronic
disease. Some believe it also has a strong potential as
an anti-aging supplement as well. Colostrum produced in
New Zealand is recommended because of their high quality
and strict farming laws. Look for organic, pasteurized
Colostrum.
Have you ever heard of
a link between a vitamin deficiency and gallstones?
A recent study in the
Archives of Internal Medicine reported a link between
Vitamin C deficiency and gallbladder disease. The study
of 13,000 men and women replicated the results of
earlier studies in both humans and animals. The National
Academies Institute of Medicine recommends a daily limit
of up to but not exceeding 2,000 mg/day. Of course,
other notable researchers such as Dr. Linus Pauling have
shown positive heath effects when consuming more than
this as well.
I've tried a variety
of supplements including pharmaceuticals and St. John's
Wort for depression with no positive results. A friend
told me about DHEA. Is it effective?
A recent report in the
Archives of General Medicine says yes, but this is the
first study I've seen to show DHEA (a hormone
supplement) as being effective against depression. The
dosage used was 90 mg. daily, which showed significant
improvement in the group taking it even if they had not
shown a positive response to other treatments. Check
with your doctor first as we still don't know the
long-term effects of DHEA supplementation. Continue to
look at journaling, meditation and exercise as important
components of overcoming depression.
Several months ago you
reported on a study being done with Omega 3 fatty acids
and depression. Please advise the dosage to take.
A study completed at
Harvard Medical School recently proved that these Omega
3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) from fish oil were as
effective as pharmaceutical antidepressants in the fight
against depression. This really is fantastic news. Dr.
Carol Locke, who is a member of the faculty at Harvard,
also described the positive effects of Omega 3 fatty
acid therapy for those who suffer from manic/depression
or Bipolar disorder. The recommended dosage was 14 grams
of fish oil capsules per day with a split of 7 grams in
the A.M. and 7 grams in the P.M. (This works out to 14
capsules per day with a reputable company product like
MAX-EPA from Nature's Way, 1-800-9-NATURE). For more
information on this study, call 1-888-57-OMEGA.
A lot of interest in
the herb Kava these days. Why would one take it? How
much each day?
The standardized extract
of the Kava root is mainly used for anxiety and
insomnia. Cultivated in the South Pacific, the herb is
used as a celebratory tonic there that causes a relaxed
yet alert response for the person drinking it. Many
studies in Europe have concluded that it can be as
effective as drugs like Vallium at reducing anxiety
without negative side effects or the possibility of
addiction. The recommended dosage of Kava in a
standardized extract capsule is 100 mg three times/day.
Do not consume Kava if you are pregnant or currently
taking antidepressant or antianxiety drugs. For more
information on Kava, check out the
Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine by Michael Murray,
Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James &
Phyllis Balch or
Kava by Ray Sahelian. Remember that the causes of
anxiety are usually multifaceted. I recommend journaling
of your day, what events preceded the sensation of
anxiety, a close review of your exercise, eating and
meditation/prayer routines. Another source of
information is
From Panic to Power by Lucinda Bassett.
The new rage in
supplements seems to be Sam-e. What is it taken for?
While many supplements
die in the marketplace almost as quickly as they are
introduced, Sam-e (a naturally occurring substance in
our bodies, S-Adenosylmethionine) has been studied in
Europe for the past 20 years. Its current use as an
antidepressant has been bolstered by research showing
that it aids in the production of brain chemicals such
as dopamine and seratonin. Dr. Richard Brown from
Columbia University recommends Sam-e for mild to
moderate cases of depression due to its quick action and
lack of negative side effects. Sam-e has also been
successfully used to treat arthritis by rebuilding
cartilage and may be helpful with fibromyalgia and some
liver diseases. For more information, check out the new
book
SAMe: S-Adenosylmethione: The European Arthritis and
Depression Breakthrough by Grazi and Costa
(800-634-1380). Always check with your doctor prior to
stopping any medications you may currently be taking.
And remember that the cause of depression is
multifaceted . . . which means the cure in multifaceted,
too.
Bendes psyllium fiber,
do you recommend other fiber supplements and which ones?
For the top benefits of
fiber from a supplementation perspective, along with
psyllium I recommend oat and wheat bran. Oat bran, a
soluble fiber is excellent for heart health, decreasing
cholesterol, etc. and wheat bran, an insoluble fiber is
wonderful for our intestinal health as it helps move
food through the digestive tract and out of the body.
These two fibers can be added to cereal or mixed in
protein shakes. Start with a few tablespoons of each and
then work your way up to 1/3 cup of each per day.
One-third cup of oat bran will supply about 8 grams of
fiber and the same amount of wheat bran will give you
approximately 10 grams of fiber. This one addition to
your diet will put you well on your way to the
recommended 30-50 grams of fiber daily. The average
American still only consumes about 12 grams of fiber
daily.
What do you think
about creatine as a supplement for enhancing my weight
training sessions? I'm a woman, 41 years old.
Creatine is definitely
the hottest physique enhancing supplement to come down
the road in a long time. As of today, with all of the
research done on this product, I have yet to see any
problems that have arisen. The big question, though,
that has not been answered is, "Are there any side
effects for someone using creatine daily for years?" No
answer here yet, so most experts recommend "cycling" on
and off creatine — take the recommended 5 gms/day for
30-60 days, then take a creatine vacation for 60-90
days, and repeat. Creatine seems to enhance muscular
strength and size (to some extent through the retention
of water in the muscle cells). I believe this is
beneficial for men and women who are on a strong
strength training program. Most recent research even
shows creatine's benefit for enhancing the strength in
simple motor movements for those with Amyotrophic
Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease, ALS) for
activities as simple, yet as important, as lifting a
fork to one's mouth. Another recent study at the
University of Massachusetts showed creatine
supplementation lessened leg fatigue in men over 60.
Less leg fatigue may then even encourage people to do
more physical activity. Overall, those who combine
creatine with strength training will probably see an
increase in strength and muscle size, which may then
assist in helping the body to burn more calories as
well. For more information, check out the book
Creatine: Nature's Muscle Builder by Dr.Ray Sahelian,
and monthly body building magazines like Muscle &
Fitness and Muscle Media 2000.
Could you give me your
favorite supplements for two areas: high blood pressure
and intestinal health?
First, I urge individuals
to discuss herbal supplementation with their physician
if they currently are on any medications. For high blood
pressure, I recommend Garlic, Co-Enzyme Q10 and
Hawthorne Berry (along with lifestyle changes) and daily
meditation. For intestinal health, L-Glutamine, Aloe
Vera Juice and Pro-Biotic supplements (acidophilus,
etc.). Check out the books
Staying Healthy with Nutrition by Elson Haas and the
Encyclopedia for Nutritional Supplements by Michael
Murray.
Please advise on the
best supplements to protect the brain during the aging
process.
I believe the best
supplements to take as a preventative (and possibly even
during the decline of mental functioning) are:
Phosphatidyl Serine
(100-300 mg per day)
Ginkgo Biloba (60-120 mg per day)
Grape Seed Extract (100-150 mg per day)
Vitamin C (1,000-4,000 mg per day)
Two of the best books on
the market that I would highly recommend are
Brain Longevity by Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa and
The Memory Cure by Thomas Crook.
Recently you discussed
the top selling herbal supplements for the past year.
What were they and can they all be taken daily?
According to the
Nutrition Business Journal, the top five best
selling herbs in order are: Echinacea, Ginseng, Gingko
Biloba, Garlic and St. John's Wort. Of these listed,
Echinacea, in most cases, should probably only be taken
at the first signs of a cold or flu and continued for up
to two weeks. Most experts recommend Ginseng to be used
continuously for one-two months followed by 30 days of
abstinence.
What was the name of
that book you regarded as "the Bible" on herbology?
There are so many
excellent herbal books -- several of my favorites are
The Healing Power of Herbs by Michael Murray N.D.,
Herbal Prescriptions for Better Health by Donald
Brown, N.D., and
The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine by
Daniel Mowrey, Ph.D.
I am writing regarding
the herb Yohimbine for sexual impotence. Can you share
any info?
Many physicians believe
this herb to be highly effective in helping men with
chronic sexual dysfunctions like impotence. A study in
the Journal of Urology showed that men who had
suffered from impotence and took a Yohimbine supplement
had an improvement rate of 81% compared to a control
group. Some herbal experts caution the use of this
supplement for men who suffer from anxiety, kidney
problems, low or high blood pressure and anyone being
treated for depression. Another supplement that may
assist you is Ginkgo Biloba, due to its ability to
enhance blood flow to the extremities.
I heard you mention a
product called "Focus" for treatment of ADD. Where can
this product be found?
"Efalex Focus" is
produced by the Efalex Company. Dr. Jacqueline Stordy is
the lead researcher on this product showing its
effectiveness in treating ADD, ADHD and Dyslexia, as
well as some eye disorders like night blindness. You can
write to Dr. Stordy at the University of Surrey, School
of Biological Sciences, Guildord, GUT 5XH, United
Kingdom. Focus can be ordered by calling 1-800-962-8873.
I have this horrible
ringing in my ears and doctors have put me on several
antihistamines, which did nothing. Is there anything
else I might try?
According to many herbal
experts, a standardized ginkgo biloba extract has been a
godsend for many people suffering from (1) tinnitus
(ringing in the ears), (2) memory loss, and (3)
unfocused thinking. Look for a standardized product.
Follow the recommendations, usually beginning at 120mg
and working up to a maximum of 240mg/day. Check with
your doctor if you are currently taking any blood
thinning medication.
Recently, you had a
guest on your show who had cancer of the jaw and used
herbal teas for a cure. What was the name of the book
mentioned?
The book is
Killing Cancer by Sir Jason Winters.
I am interested about
the use of the herb St. John's Wort in the management of
depression. How can I be assured of receiving a
consistent, effective dose from one capsule to another?
A detailed book on St.
John's Wort is
Hypericum and Depression, Bloomfield et al. The only
way to ensure receiving the potency necessary is to
purchase a standardized extract from an extremely
reputable herbal supplement manufacturer. Also, remember
working through depression may incorporate uncovering
issues in our lives that we have failed to work through.
Care of the Soul by Thomas Moore is a wonderful
book. Our book,
Phoenix Soul is helpful as well. It is my personal
writings that came out of my own struggle with
depression. Also, consider working with a
counselor/therapist.
You had recently
mentioned a substance used to fight depression that I
had never heard of. I think you called it one of the
amino acid products. Could you revisit this?
The amino acid I spoke of
was DLPA — or phenylalanine. DLPA is a combination of
the two forms of phenylalanine: L-phenylalanine and
D-phenylalanine. DLPA may work by allowing endorphins,
or "feel good" chemicals to accumulate in the brain,
thereby reducing depression in some individuals. A
recent article in Let's Live magazine (Nov. 1998)
quoted a practitioner who has had a success rate of 80%
with patients put on this supplement. Remember, however,
that depression must be treated holistically — examining
our lifestyle habits . . . food, sleep, relaxation,
supplementation, how we deal with (or don't deal with)
relationships at home and at the workplace, exercise and
our own self acceptance. There is no one shot answer to
alleviating depression.
Could you suggest an
alternative to prescription medication for migraines?
There are many factors
that can trigger migraines: certain perfumes, tobacco
smoke, anxiety, as well as psychological facts described
well in Joan Borysenko's book
Minding the Body, Mending the Mind. Foods such as
nuts, cheese, alcohol, products containing caffeine,
MSG, Nutrasweet and convenience meats can also be
culprits. Remedies include biofeedback, relaxation tapes
No More Stress, and meditation can all reduce the
severity of these attacks. The herb feverfew can be used
as a preventive supplement if taken regularly. Studies
have shown a dramatic reduction in the frequency and
severity of migraine headaches with those taking
feverfew daily. Mygrafew, available in health food
stores, is one extract proven effective in the treatment
of these headaches. Some believe the addition of ginkgo
biloba to feverfew is the "state of the art" in the
treatment of migraines. Also, check out the book
Herbal Prescriptions for Better Health by Donald
Brown.
I am a 55 year old
woman who has been taking medicine for hypertension for
about two years. I feel that my doctor prescribed
medication too quickly as my blood pressure wasn't that
high in the beginning. What can I do to improve my
health and reduce my blood pressure without medication?
The following supplements
are some of the best natural alternatives available for
heart health: hawhtorne berry, garlic, CoQ10
(1-800-9-Nature). You should speak with your physician
before discontinuing any medication. My favorite
technique for lowering high blood pressure is
transcendental meditation. A study funded last year by
the National Institute of Health proved transcendental
meditation to be as effective as any medication at
decreasing high blood pressure (for info. on
transcendental meditation call 800-888-5797).
Could you describe the
different supplements that would help: 1) Osteoarthritis
and 2) Rheumatoid Arthritis? You speak of these
regularly and I keep forgetting to write the answers
down.
For Osteoarthritis, where
joint cartilage has been damaged,there can be swelling
accompanied by pain. Try Glucosamine or Hydrochloride
Sulfate for 90 days. If relief does not come, try the
Glucosamine/Chondroitin combination — 500 mg three times
a day is usually recommended.
For Rheumatoid Arthritis,
in which the body's immune system attacks tissues within
the joint causing inflammation and "hot" joints, try
Fish Oil capsules. Up to six capsules of fish oil per
day can be taken, or you may try two tablespoons of
Flaxseed Oil. The spice Curcumin has shown to be
extremely beneficial as well at dosages around 600 mg
twice a day.
Do you know of any
natural treatments for periodontal disease?
I recently came across an
amazing toothbrush that may help stop the progression of
or even prevent the recession of gum lines. The
Sonicare is an
electric toothbrush that can remove plaque below the gum
line, which may reverse gingivitis and shrink
periodontal pockets. It is guaranteed for three months,
so you have nothing to lose. I've used many different
models of electric toothbrushes over the years and this
by far is the best. To order, call 1-800-682-7664. I
also highly recommend the supplement COQ10 60
mg once or twice a day, which has been shown in some
small studies to halt this disease. To order, call
1-800-962-8873. Also, be sure to have regular teeth
cleanings two or three times a year and floss daily. If
you do not have any gum related problems, I would still
recommend following all of the information presented
here for prevention purposes. |
