Free to be Radical

To sum it up, free radicals are aggressive, reactive substances (scavengers) that are naturally formed in our bodies when we breathe in oxygen or burn food for energy (1). Free radicals contribute to the aging process, which is natural. But excessive amounts can cause tissue damage and even lead to certain diseases. These molecules or atoms are deficient of an electron, rendering them unstable. What happens next? The electron imbalance causes the free radical to steal an electron from another healthy molecule. This creates an unhealthy chain reaction. The once-healthy molecule turns into another free radical, which also goes in search of an electron, and the cycle continues (1).

The effects of excessive free radical damage can be widespread; free radicals attack and oxidize the cell’s membranes (lipids and proteins). Free radicals also damage the mitochondria, the cell’s main energy source. And, the oxidation caused by these free radicals disbands key enzymes and hormones, hindering the bodies’ natural ability to grow, fix themselves and cope with the everyday stresses of life. Last, DNA may also be attacked by as many as 100,000 free radicals daily (1). Free radicals may play a role in cancer, heart disease, liver damage and other diseases, experts say.

Free Radical Fighters

One’s exposure to free radicals cannot be prevented, since their presence can’t be avoided. They are found everywhere; this includes in air and in water pollution, and the processed foods we eat. Free radicals can also appear after physical trauma or from the medication one takes (3). Yes, you read right. Medications have free radicals because of the way they are produced in the laboratory.

But, you may be pleased to know that excessive free radical damage can be quelled by taking antioxidants (e.g., vitamins A, C and E, beta carotene, lutein, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, carotenoids and coenzyme Q10), which are molecules that have a spare electron to neutralize free radicals.

Antioxidants are excellent for maintaining the function and structure of healthy cells. They also are vitamins and nutrients that protect our cells from the damage caused by free radicals. And, antioxidants are found in dietary supplements as well as many natural foods, creating a greater need to eat the unprocessed variety (3).

An Antioxidant Effect

Just how can antioxidants benefit your body? Antioxidants may offer numerous health benefits, and are believed to assist with preventing certain illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. They may also help those with cardiovascular disease, immune dysfunction, cognitive impairment, cataracts and macular degeneration. Studies have shown that antioxidants reduce signs of aging by minimizing wrinkles and preserving the skin’s texture. They may even protect the skin from sun damage and reduce one’s chances of sunburn.

Vitamins C and E are two of the most potent antioxidants because they prevent free radicals from oxidizing sensitive biological molecules. Take vitamin E, for example, which has some research backing for helping those who have Alzheimer’s disease. Mary Sano, Ph.D., of Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, and her team discovered that 2,000 IU of vitamin E administered for two years to patients with severe cases of Alzheimer’s delayed the progression of the disease (5). Also, an analysis published in the journal Current Opinion in Lipidology showed that alpha-tocopherol was helpful for those who have heart disease.

Vitamin C is also well-known to support heart and immune health.  In addition, some trials also have concluded that vitamin C may benefit those with cancer (though everyone’s cancer is different and this vitamin hasn’t been shown to eradicate the disease). The late Abram Hoffer, M.D., Ph.D. was one proponent of giving cancer patients large doses of intravenous vitamin C along with various vitamins and minerals. Nearly one-third of his patients who were deemed terminally ill from the disease lived more than 10 years. It should be noted that different types of cancer respond better than others to vitamin C. Particularly, women who have reproductive cancers (breast), respond to vitamin therapy easier than those with lung cancer (5). Shoppers should ask their physicians before altering their dietary regimen.

Vitamins C and E are just two of the many powerful antioxidants. Selenium also is said to be useful for immunity and heart health; vitamin A is needed for the production of epithelial cells in the body, which line the skin along with most tissues; and coenzyme Q10 supports heart health and healthy blood glucose levels (1). WF

References
1. D. Klatz, R. Goldman, “Stopping The Clock,” Basic Health Publications, (North Bergen, 2002).
2. ICMG, “What are free radicals?” http://www.freeradicalscience.com/ , accessed Janurary 25, 2010.
3. “Free-Radicals are Attacking Your Body,” www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/freeradicals-are-attacking-your-body-1705038.html, accessed January 19, 2010.
4. J. Challem & L. Brown, “User’s Guide To Vitamins & Minerals,” (Basic Health Publications, North Bergen, 2002).
5. “Abram Hoffer, MD, PhD (1917–2009), interview by Andrew W. Saul, ” The Townsend Letter,” Nov. 2009 www.townsendletter.com/
Nov2009/hoffer1109.html, accessed January 29, 2010.

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, March 2010
“Consumer Bulletin” is reprinted with permission from Whole Foods magazine and is provided for educational purposes only by your local retailer. No part of this article is intended as medical advice. Always consult your health care provider for any medical problems.

Homeopathic remedies are derived from plant, animal and mineral sources, and form the core of a medical system that posits the substances that produce symptoms of sickness in healthy people have curing effects in diluted amounts. In other words, the prescribed applications mimic the illnesses and symptoms of the user, and promote natural healing, between body and mind (1).

Homeopathy versus Traditional Medicine

Hahnemann formulated two core principals of homeopathy: the Law of Similars (like cures like) and the Law of the Infinitesimal Dose (dilution equals potency). In the former, Hahnemann theorized that if a substance causes disease systems in a healthy person, it may take only small amounts of that substance to cure a sick person with the same symptoms. The latter law suggests that the lower the dose of medicine, the greater the benefits. Therefore in homeopathy, substances are diluted through a series of specific steps (1).

So, why is homeopathy recommended? Some prefer this healing method over conventional methods because it allows the user to trade drugs for legitimate natural healing. Contrary to popular belief, homeopaths are certified, licensed doctors. Physicians who practice homeopathy help their patients to heal emotionally, mentally and physically by addressing their patients’ needs specifically—while treating whole health at the same time.

Though a visit to a homeopath is different from seeing a physician, surveys have proven that homeopathic doctors spend far greater time with patients during initial consultations than traditional doctors, with interviews lasting anywhere from one to two hours. A homeopath completes this detailed analysis to get a sense of a patient’s overall health and lifestyle, which means the physical, mental and emotional level of each patient, must also be evaluated. In doing so, patients often complete a lengthy questionnaire about their medical/family history, followed by an interview with the doctor, who asks the patient several more questions. However, it is not uncommon for a homeopathic doctor to use lab tests to gauge a patient’s level of health (1).

You may be surprised to know that homeopathic care is quite cost effective; initial visits can be anywhere from $50 to $300. Follow-up visits cost less, at $35 to $100 (1). High-quality homeopathic remedies are often less expensive than pharmaceuticals, with most remedies costing between $2 and $10; however, some doctors provide remedies free of charge (1).

Homeopathy is a safe therapeutic for ailments because it is believed to produce minimal side effects. Also, its non-toxic properties make it an excellent option for treating children’s illnesses.
Read further to learn about some common homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathic Herbs

Arnica may be used at the first signs of trauma, muscle aches, bruises or shock to decrease strain and tension. It can also be used as a remedy for many injuries. Adding to Arnica’s benefits its use for muscular strains and overexertion. Arnica (often found in topical gels) may also quell body soreness or pain caused by muscle or joint pain (2, 3).

Calendula has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is said to be suitable for wound-related aliments such as scrapes, cuts and muscle strains. It is a recommended therapeutic because it heals wounds quickly, seals the edges of minor cuts and prevents scar tissue from forming. Calendula may also be used as an aid for infection, abscess, ulceration and even gangrene (2, 3).

Symphytum assists in bone building and cartilage repair. To that end, it also is said to help injury sustained to the periosteum or bone linings, bruising of the bones and shins, and other types of injury (2).

Camphora is a therapeutic often used for cold extremities, cramps and anxiety (4, 5). It may also help minor physical trauma symptoms and the recovery from cold/flu symptoms.

Hypericum (or Saint John’s Wort) has much research backing for mood support, particularly those who have depression.

If you are thinking about trying homeopathy, speak with a trained homeopath and your healthcare practitioner before taking homeopathic remedies. WF

References
1. “Homeopathy,” Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health, www.enotes.com/nursing-encyclopedia, accessed July 14, 2009.
2. A. Hershoff, Homeopathic Remedies (Avery Publishing Group, New York, NY, 2000).
3. A. Lockie and N. Geddes, Natural Health Complete Guide to Homeopathy (Dorling Kindersley Publishing, New York, NY, 2000).
4. V. McCabe, Household Homeopathy (Basic Health Publications, North Bergen, NJ, 2005).
5. P. Chappell, Emotional Healing with Homeopathy (North Atlantic Books, Berkeley, CA, 2003).

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, August 2009
“Consumer Bulletin” is reprinted with permission from Whole Foods magazine and is provided for educational purposes only by your local retailer. No part of this article is intended as medical advice. Always consult your health care provider for any medical problems.