by Tori Hudson, ND
Hawthorn and hibiscus have a long history of use in traditional botanical medicine in many parts of the world for their multiple health effects, but especially in relation to cardiovascular disorders. In the last 15-20 years, modern research has expanded and clarified those uses. Hawthorn research has focused on congestive heart failure, and sour tea research has focused on hypertension and dyslipidemia, with several clinical trials emerging in the last 3-4 years.
by Natural Standard
Zinc is necessary for the functioning of more than 300 different enzymes and plays a vital role in a large number of biological processes. This article distills the copious research surrounding the mineral and rates its effectiveness for a variety of conditions.
by Alexander Schauss, PhD, FACN
"I was surprised to see an audio presentation in the June 2011 issue of 'Natural Medicine Journal' that promotes a specific product, rather than a generic discussion of ingredients in the product and their attributes. I think this sets a precedent and wonder what guidelines have been established by the editorial board and management of the journal as it relates to such submissions."
by Jacob Schor, ND, FABNO
Weight gain or loss is complex. Increasing consumption of healthy foods and avoidance of bad foods, especially potatoes, leads to weight loss. This concept is not new to any of us. Simple carbohydrates increase weight gain.
by Jacob Schor, ND, FABNO
Eating 5 or more servings of baked or broiled fish per week lowered the risk of heart failure by 30%. Eating fried fish 1 or more times a week was associated with a 48% increase in risk for heart failure. No association was seen between consumption of omega-3 fish oil supplements or trans fatty acids with heart failure.
by Lena Suhaila, ND
Subjects were randomized to 8 weekly 2.5-hour Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) classes, plus an all-day class on a weekend day during the 6th week and guided instruction to be practiced at home on days they did not have class. The study measures bothersomeness and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats, and their impact on quality of life, sleep quality, anxiety, and perceived stress.This is frequently seen in menopause: Negative emotions and psychological distress are reported in conjunction with hot flashes.
by Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO
This study clearly demonstrates a preventive effect of on ER- breast cancer from consumption of at least 5 cups of boiled coffee daily. The body of literature on the relationship between coffee intake and breast cancer is quite mixed. There are studies with similar findings to those of this study. However, there are also studies that show a reduction in risk of ER+ breast cancers from coffee. There yet other studies that suggest an increased risk of ER- breast cancer associated with caffeine intake.
by Tina Kaczor, ND, FABNO
The theoretical risk of interference with antioxidant compounds during treatment for cancer has been given as the reason to avoid all supplementation while receiving conventional therapies. This study shows the use of the antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E during and after treatment with chemotherapy has a statistically significant impact on both mortality and risk of recurrence.
by Jacob Schor, ND, FABNO
This book is a treasure. No one in naturopathic practice should be without it. So much of our practice has been reduced to telling our patients what not to eat. We should instead, for many patients, be actively instructing them in what to eat. Perhaps the most benefit may not come from shifting carbohydrate, fat, and protein ratios, but from getting them to spice up what they are already eating.
by Natural Medicine Journal
Michael Traub, ND, FABNO, speaks about his experience in doing research on homeopathics and natural agents. A clinician in private practice, Traub has forged relationships with companies and universities that have allowed him to publish his work in peer-reviewed journals. Clinicians are uniquely positioned to design research protocols based on clinical observations, and Traub gives inspiration and guidance for those interested in pursuing this often challenging path.
by Lise Alschuler, ND, FABNO
One of the key aspects of dietary supplement regulations is the opportunity for consumers, healthcare providers, and manufacturers to report serious adverse events. The Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act took effect in 2007. The intention of this act is to provide a way to identify potentially harmful supplements and prevent harm to future consumers. Adverse event reporting is a cornerstone in the safe use of dietary supplements.
