The Case for High-Dose Iodine
Although the body doesn’t demand high doses of iodine for daily function, there is some evidence for its use For most individuals, dietary intake or supplemental iodine between the recommended dietary allowance and the upper daily limits is adequate. However, there are certain situations in which higher doses of iodine may be appropriate. Treatment…
Iodine: Essential for the Mother-To-Be
The physical and cognitive health of the developing infant depends on adequacy of this essential mineral Iodine – you may know it as the topical preparation used before surgery for the purpose of disinfecting, or as just another element learned in chemistry courses of high school or college (which you have long forgotten). However,…
The Science Behind Some Liver-Loving Herbs: Milk Thistle and Berberine to the Rescue!
Protecting the body against excesses and toxins associated with daily living There are many herbs with a history of use for supporting liver function and metabolic regulation with exposure to toxins or excessive consumption of alcohol or food. Modern analytical techniques and clinical studies have helped us to further understand the potential health benefits…
Stimulants and Sedatives: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Use now, pay later? Problems associated with common stimulants and sedatives In our go-go-go world, it’s easy to feel drawn to stimulant substances to keep us going and sedatives to help us relax. Whether it’s coffee to get through the day and a glass of wine after work, or medications such as methylphenidates or…
Mastering Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Knowledge is Power
From enzymes to eating habits, there is hope Everyone has episodes of digestive discomfort from time-to-time. Unfortunately, some of us experience digestive problems chronically. It’s then that the doctor is seen, and most often, the diagnosis is irritable bowel syndrome, commonly known as IBS.[1] The physician’s recommendations may include a gentle laxative, fiber, water,…
Gut Microbiota Diversity in the Young and Old
A factor in disease conditions and aging? In recent decades, there has been an explosion of information regarding the role that the human microbiota plays in both health and disease. Projects such as the National Institutes of Health Human Microbiome Project,[1] and similar collaborative efforts in other countries, have focused on the collection of…
Leaky Gut, Autoimmunity, and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) – Oh My!
Harm from one kind of bacteria, healing from another What’s LPS, and why should I care? Lipopolysaccharide, or LPS, is the major component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. LPS contributes to the structural integrity of the bacteria, protecting the membrane from certain kinds of chemical attack. LPS is of crucial importance to…
It’s Not Just Antibiotics that Potentially Harm Gut Health
Which of these prescription medications are YOU taking? Most people are aware that antibiotic medications can alter the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. In addition to the science we have proving this, many of us have personally experienced upset bellies and changes in stool patterns upon taking an antibiotic. However,…
Herbal and Nutritional Allies for Tick-Borne Illness
Clinical evidence supports the use of natural substances for reducing symptoms associated with Lyme disease We all are becoming more aware of Lyme disease, as the incidence of this tick-borne infection is on the rise, particularly in the endemic regions of the upper Midwest and Northeastern United States.[1] Confirmed cases continue to show up…
Avoiding Alzheimer’s Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond – Part 2 of 2
A proactive approach to reducing the risk of dementia In Part 2 of this two-part series, we investigate some botanicals and additional supplements which complement nutritional and lifestyle factors for the prevention of cognitive decline. Also, you may want to listen to Dr. Decker’s live interview with Natural Medicine Journal on the topic of…
Stomach Acidity, Dietary Intake, and the Microbiome
The gut microbiome, stomach acidity, sloths, and you. In recent years we’ve seen an explosion in the research on the importance of the collection of trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in the human body, collectively known as the microbiome. We now know that a vast array of health conditions such as obesity,[1]…
Supplements for Sleep and Relaxation Support
Supplements for Better Sleep When it comes to natural sleep aids and relaxation support, we tend to think of melatonin. As helpful as this supplement can be, it can cause morning grogginess in some people. Thankfully, there are many other nutraceuticals well shown to support relaxation and healthy sleep. Beyond melatonin, natural amino acids…
