Category: Conditions

Diabetes

Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism – the way our bodies use digested food (primarily glucose) for growth and energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Blood sugar control is at the center of any diabetes treatment plan. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a major concern and can affect people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

A diet high in refined sugars forces our body to produce more insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. With more insulin in the system, cellular resistance to insulin increases. When the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient insulin to influence the cells to take up blood sugar, the person will require additional insulin in the form of drugs and injections.

High blood sugar levels is dangerous because it increases the viscosity of blood. Viscous blood cannot travel trough capillaries, especially near the eyes and the extremities, leading to blindness and amputation in extreme circumstances. As blood is filtered in the kidneys, the kidneys are especially at risk and diabetes regularly leads to kidney failure and dialysis. Diabetes with its associated viscous blood issues mean that risks commonly associated with constricted blood vessels such as heart disease and atherosclerosis will become more and more prevalent.

Given the risks, the control of blood sugar is important not only for diabetes patients; but also for preventing diabetes. It is important to reduce exposure to high glycemic index foods such as cane sugar, white rice and other refined carbohydrates. Fruit is not to be avoided strictly (given the abundance of enzymes and phytonutrients in them), but should be taken together with easily absorbed proteins to reduce the glycemic load.

A plan to reduce the risks and consequences of diabetes will involve sugar control, reducing insulin resistance through exercise and all the things needed to reduce risks of heart disease.

Applied nutrition

  • Morning fruit
  • Water soluble fibre
  • Nutrition breakfast without body key
  • Nutrition breakfast before meals
  • Avoid carbohydrates for lunch and dinner – get the carbs from breakfast and protein powder before meals.
  • Eat fibre first and couple proteins with sugar
  • excercise (aerobic) to reduce sensitivity to insulin (20-30 minutes)
  • Chromium
  • Primrose to create prostaglandin
  • Green tea extract

Stress 壓力

Stress can come from any situation or thought. Interpretation of that scenario can lead to feelings of frustration, anger or anxiety. A healthy body is able to detect and respond to stress. Prolonged exposure to stress may lead to fluctuating responses or an insensitivity / hypersensitivity to stress, which may further lead to undesirable habits and conditions such as alcoholism, temper issues and depression.

Under sudden stress, adrenal glands release cortisone, deoxyribose, adulterine and IL-6. These require A, B2, C, E, pantothenic acid and linoleic acid.

Adrenaline accelerates the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy for the body to use. This causes to body to excrete amino acids, potassium and phosphorous. It also depletes magnesium in muscle tissue and reduces calcium storage. It can destroy membranes (soft protein structures) if constantly released or becomes uncontrollable. Ulcers, breathing problems and eczema can result.
Cortisol ages brain cells and builds fat around the body’s midsection.
Interleukin-6 has direct effects on most cells in the body and is associated with many disorders, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease.

Our enzymes and bodily fluids responsible for the millions of actions our bodies undertake everyday are made from micronutrients and amino acids which are reduced by stress. With inadequate supplies, the body tries to make something similar, but which is actually a histamine, an agent which causes inflammatory responses. Histamine is useful where there is actual cell injury since it brings white blood cells and blood to the area. If histamine is produced randomly, it can be an unnecessary irritant.

Stress is regulated by the release of calcium. If there is inadequate supplies in the blood, calcium is forced from bone where 99% of it is stored. Therefore, long periods of stress can result in osteoporosis and arthritis. If that occurs, calcium is not a first priority. Vitamin C and glucosamine is. Vitamin C is needed together with amino acids to fulfil its potential.

Phosphorous comes from processed meats and foods. This mineral replaces calcium and magnesium in our bodies, leading to lower absorption of those essential minerals. If the body has inadequate magnesium, calcium gets stuck in membrane structures leading to splinters, stones and arthritis.

The body does not absorb nutrients well when under stress, which can cause a multitude of other problems. It promotes the growth of free radicals that can oxidise and damage body tissues, especially cell membranes. Stress suppresses the immune system and long term stress will increase susceptibility to illness and slow healing.

In short, stress is to be avoided as much as possible.

Possible signs and symptoms

Twitching or trembling, muscle tension, headaches, sweating, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and abdominal pain. General fatigue, inability to sustain concentration and short tempers.

Applied nutrition

Nutrition serves to help the body respond properly to stress. It is also essential to target and reduce the source of stress, and to help interpret and discuss appropriate responses to the stress being experienced.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Vitamin B All B vitamins are necessary for health and proper functioning of the nervous system. B5 is an anti-stress vitamin needed by the thymus gland 5x twice daily
Vitamin C Essential to adrenal gland function. Stress depletes the gland’s anti-stress hormones 5x twice daily
Calcium + magnesium Replaces minerals lost by stress. Deficiency is common in highly stressed persons and can result in anxiety, fear and even hallucinations 4x twice daily
Q10 Also includes taurine which increases energy and protects brain, heart and immune system 2x twice daily
Multivitamin + phytonutrients Supplements nutrition lost or prevented from absorption from stress As directed
Selenium E Disarms free radicals caused by stress, improves immunity 1-2x daily

Poor digestion 消化不良

The digestive system processes foods taken into the body and breaks it down to its useable components – carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. It also expels waste from the body. A diet with plenty of dietary fibre and water is essential to keep the digestive system functioning well. Running a poor digestive system for extended periods of time reduces overall nutritional intake leading to a multitude of other problems and can also cause cancers of the digestive system.

Fibre is found in whole grains, vegetables and fruit – essential to healthy gastrointestinal function. Leading health organisations recommend adults to consume 30-40 grams of dietary fibre per day, which is about 5-9 portions of fruits and vegetables. For urban populations, this is often not feasible and this is where supplements can assist.

Applied nutrition

It is often necessary to explore whether it is the intake of food or lack thereof that is the source of the problem. If the diet and lifestyle is changed for a particular condition but problems persist, then it may be useful to direct attention to the digestive system.

Chew food properly. Eat slower if you are a fast eater. Turn off all distractions when eating – this includes the TV, the phone and speaking too much. Avoid cold liquids and excess liquids when eating meals. Heat improves digestion generally.

Like a pipeline, you’ll need water. 8 glasses (250ml) is a good guideline, to be sipped throughout the day from morning to 7pm and not in large gulps.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Vitamin B Helps metabolise sugars, fats and proteins to prevent the “food coma” 5x twice daily
Insoluble fiber Helps cleanse the colon by building bulk there and purging waste 1 tablet half an hour before each meal
Water-soluble fiber Helps maintain a probiotic-friendly environment and absorb excess sugars and oils Mix 1-2 sticks into some of your 8 glasses of water
Calcium + magnesium Regulates stomach and intestinal muscle activity 2x twice daily

Pneumonia 肺炎

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by an infection by bacteria, viruses or fungi. It can range from mild to severe depending on the type of organism causing it as well as age and underlying health.

Possible causes

Bacterial pneumonias tend to be the most common yet most serious cause of pneumonia in adults. Respiratory viruses are the most common cause of pneumonia in young children, peaking between the ages of 2 and 3. In some people, particularly the elderly and weak, bacterial pneumonia may follow influenza or even a common cold.

Many people contract pneumonia while staying in a hospital for other conditions. This tends to be more serious because the patient’s immune system is often impaired. In addition, there is a greater possibility of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, kill micro-organisms and repair the lungs.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Garlic Protects against respiratory infections and destroys harmful bacteria 3x twice daily
Multi-carotene Enhances immunity and promotes repair of soft (lung) tissue 4x twice daily
Vitamin C Improve immune response and reduce inflammation FLUSH + 5x three times daily
Protein powder Tissue repair At least 2 scoops twice daily
Vitamin B Essential for production of antibodies, formation of red blood cells and healthy mucus membranes 3x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Needed to build new lung tissue and reduce inflammation. Speeds recovery and boosts immunity As directed on label
Multivitamin, mineral and phytonutrients To supply essentials such as zinc, vitamin E, etc. to balance nutritional support As directed on label

Osteoporosis 骨質酥鬆

Osteoporosis is the loss of bone tissue resulting in thin, brittle bones that are prone to fracture. Peak bone mass is reached about age 35 for men and early 30s for women. Bone density decreases with age.

Maintaining adequate calcium intake along with physical activity will slow the process. For women, the menopausal years also pose a risk for developing osteoporosis and require increased calcium intake.

Applied nutrition

A diet that is low in calcium with a high intake of tea, coffee, soft drinks and alcohol with a lack of weight-bearing exercises will increase the risk of severe osteoporosis. Act to increase calcium intake and absorption and to also prevent arthritis risk.

High animal protein intake has been shown to reduce bone mass – as compared with people on vegetarian diets. Always strive to maximise plant protein intake to satisfy daily needs.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Necessary for maintaining strong bones Women under 50, men under 65: 2x twice daily. Else 4x twice daily
Glucosamine For bone and soft tissue development As directed on label
Double X Provides essential vitamin D, boron, copper, zinc and nutritional balance As directed on label
Protein powder protein and soy isoflavones promote bone mass At least two scoops, twice daily (40g total)
Vitamin B Provides strength to protein in bone tissue and promotes progesterone production 3x twice daily
Multi-carotene Strong antioxidant retards ageing process 2x twice daily
Vitamin C Important for collagen and connective tissue formation 4-6x twice daily

Migraines 頭疼

Migraines are a neurological disease and is the most common type of vascular headache. During an attack, the blood vessels in the brain dilate and then stimulate nerve endings nearby, causing (usually severe) pain.

Possible signs and symptoms

These attacks can last from 4 to 72 hours and are commonly accompanied by nausea. Migraines are an intense and disabling headache and can come with an upset stomach, hypersensitivity to light or sound.

Triggers

  • Different foods such as cheese, chocolate, wines or citrus fruits can cause the attacks.
  • Exercise, anxiety, stress, bright lights, loud noises, contraceptive pills and travel.
  • Some women experience attacks more frequently around the time of their menstrual periods.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, stress and pain.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Minerals help to reduce pain and regulate muscular tone and transmit nerve impulses. Take liberally (up to 10) upon attack. Then 3x 3 times daily
Q10 Increases blood flow to the brain and improves circulation 2x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Anti-inflammatory agents needed for brain, cells and for fat metabolism 2x twice daily
Vitamin B Needed for a healthy nervous system 3x twice daily
(Garlic) A potent detoxifier 3x twice daily
(Vitamin C) Helps produce anti-stress hormones and improve immunity. Helps calcium absorption 5x twice daily

 

Motion Sickness 暈船/暈車等

Overview

Motion sickness occurs when motion causes the eyes, sensory nerves and the balancing mechanism of the ear to send conflicting signals to the brain, causing a loss of equilibrium. It is usually experienced in a moving vehicle (plane, boat, car). Anxiety, genetics, overeating, poor ventilation and travelling immediately after eating. Women are affected by this condition more frequently than men are. Elderly people and children under the age of two are usually not affected.

People suffering from motion sickess experience symptoms that range from headaches to queasiness to nausea and vomiting, and such symptoms may last for days if serious. Natural remedies have been used successfully in many cases.

Applied Nutrition

Massaging the space about 3 fingers’ width from the lines that connect your hand to your arm often stops motion sickness. Do not read or do visually-focussed things while on the vehicle. Close your eyes, breathe deeply or roll the windows down and get fresh air and focus on faraway things.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium  Acts as a nerve tonic At least 3 tablets 1 hour before the trip
 B complex Helps to relieve nausea At least 3 tabs before the trip and 3 tabs more 2 hours after the first dose

Charcoal tablets are known to be effective – take 5 tablets one hour before travel.

Menstrual pain 月经痛

Painful menstrual periods are marked by lower abdominal pain and cramps. A woman may feel sharp pains that come and go, or dull, aching pains. Painful menstrual periods may also cause back pain.

Painful menstruation is the leading cause of lost time from school and work among women in their teens and 20s. Although some pain during menstruation is normal, excessive pain is not.

There are two general types of dysmenorrhea:

  1. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to menstrual pain that occurs in otherwise healthy women. This type of pain is not related to any specific problems with the uterus or other pelvic organs.
  2. Secondary dysmenorrhea is a menstrual main that is attributed to some underlying disease of structural abnormality within or outside the uterus.

Activity of the hormone prostaglandin, produced in the uterus, is thought to be a factor in primary dysmenorrhea. This hormone causes contractions in the uterus and levels tend to be much higher in women with severe menstrual pain than in women who experience mild or no menstrual pain.

Possible causes

  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Stress and anxiety;
  • Endometriosis; pelvic inflammatory disease; sexually transmitted diseases, fibroids, ovarian cysts and use of intrauterine devices.

Applied nutrition

Generally to ease pain and regulate hormonal release.

Menstrual bleeding 月经出血

Although it is a natural process, the symptoms can be reduced through a good diet, proper exercise and stress management.
The menstrual cycle is not the same for every woman. Optimally, menstrual flow occurs every 28 days and lasts about 4 days.

If one soaks a sanitary pad / tampon every hour for 6 consecutive hours, it is considered a very heavy period. A prolonged period lasts longer than 7 days.

Bleeding may be something to worry about if it occurs between periods, after intercourse, or if the prospect is over the age of 50, especially after menopause.

Possible causes

There are myriad possible causes including:

  • Anovulation (failure of ovaries to produce / release eggs);
  • Endometrial polyps / hyperplasia / cancer;
  • Uterine fibroids;
  • Abnormal thyroid or pituitary function;
  • Hormonal changes (e.g. menopause);
  • Pregnancy complications including miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy;
  • Ingestion of birth control pills or estrogens;
  • Use of certain drugs like steroids or blood thinners;
  • Use of an intrauterine device for birth control;
  • Recent trauma, surgery or other uterine procedure;
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease or other infection;
  • Stress, changes in diet or exercise routine, recent weight changes, travel or illness.

Applied nutrition

The main flow of thought is to compensate for the loss of nutrients through the blood and to balance hormonal release.

Menopause 经绝期

Menopause is the transition in a woman’s life when the ovaries stop releasing eggs, menstrual activity decreases and eventually ceases, and the body decreases the production of the female hormone oestrogen and progesterone. This natural process usually occurs in women between the ages of 38 to 58, though good health would push the time later. Poor diet, stress and inactivity may increase the symptoms of menopause.

The menopausal years may also increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. Calcium and magnesium supplementation may be of assistance before and during menopause in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Recent studies suggest that the increased consumption of soy-based foods may be of assistance for women in their menopausal years.

Possible signs and symptoms

Fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, hot flushes and sleeplessness.

Applied nutrition