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Dr. Williams'
Live Chat: August 26, 2005
Welcome,
and thanks for joining me today. I’ve spent a lot of time
over the last 20 years searching for the truths about health
and writing Alternatives, so I haven’t had much time to meet
readers. This is a chance for you to ask about what’s been
on your mind.
I can’t always answer specific, personal medical questions,
but I can at least point you in the right direction. Here
we go!
Note: The material presented in this web chat is for educational
and general health information purposes only. Dr. Williams
cannot provide you with recommendations regarding your specific
health condition or any specific recommendations regarding
medications you may be using or are considering using. In
this regard, you should seek advice from your personal medical
professional regarding your symptoms or condition.
Sunland,
CA: I am a 56 year old menopausal vegetarian. I have
been a vegetarian for over fourteen years. How can I ensure
I'm receiving all the necessary nutrients - vitamins, minerals,
efa, etc. on a daily basis? How do I know if I'm taking too
much or too little of something? Besides blood tests, are
there other tests I can send away for? I take a liquid vitamin,
whey protein powder, flax, your Osteobuild, probiotics, colostrum
(New Zealand), food enzymes. If I have a complaint, it's indigestion
and sometimes just plain tired. Then it can be the very next
day, I feel energetic and can walk 5 miles with no problem.
Is this yo-yo part of menopause?
Dr.
Williams: Every individual has different and varying
nutritional needs. Some blood tests and even hair analysis
can be somewhat beneficial in helping determine your current
status…but that can change from day to day. The best insurance
is to eat a very wide variety of foods, particularly vegetables
and fruits. Being a vegetarian, you need to make sure you’re
getting adequate amounts of three particular items: essential
fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin B12. There may be some good
ones out there, but I’ve yet to find a liquid vitamin that
provides adequate amounts of both minerals and essential fatty
acids. Minerals usually taste so bad it’s hard to mask them
in a liquid. Digestive problems also seem so be common in
vegetarians. I personally feel the saying, “use it or lose”
might apply here. Without harder-to-digest proteins like meat
in the diet your body may not be producing adequate stomach
acids. Betaine hydrochloride may help both your digestion
and energy levels. Also with menopause I would strongly suggest
trying a drop or two of the iodine Iosol to improve energy
levels (a thyroid glandular would also help but that would
be an animal-derived product).
Tucson,
Az.: I am mostly bedridden, and I am worried about getting
diabetis.
Since I can't do much exercise and have Neuropathy; I am over
weight, can't walk hardly at all! I am 61 years old, and both
my mother and grandmother had diabetis in their latter years.
I have to eat so much fruit because I take medicine that slows
me down. I ride a stationary bike 20 to 40 minutes a day.
What else can I do?
Dr.
Williams: To help protect against diabetes, I would suggest
taking a comprehensive multivitamin/mineral product that contains
chromium, vanadium and adding additional alpha lipoic acid
(200 mg), gymnema sylvestre extract (200 mg) and resveratrol
(20 mg) . The best thing you can do to both help lose weight
and avoid diabetes is to change your diet. Avoid high fructose
corn syrup like the plague (it’s one of the most common sweeteners
in all types of prepared foods). I certainly wouldn’t be overdoing
it on the fruit. If that gives you energy then you probably
have weakened adrenals, which I’ve explained how to strengthen
in several past articles. It would also be helpful to gear
your diet more toward lower glycemic foods. You can get the
book The New Glucose Revolution by Jennie Brand-Miller from
nearly any bookseller, online or in a store, and a good chart
at www.mendosa.com.
Also use the axillary test to check for a hypothyroid condition
which may be keeping your energy low and lessening your ability
to lose weight. (Keep a thermometer by your bedside. Take
your temperature under your arm when you first wake up in
the morning. If it reads below 97.2, then you need to address
your thyroid condition.) Gradually increase your stationary
bike time and adding resistance exercise with light weights
or elastic bands will also be helpful.
Vancouver
Washington: If you were to take any drug or substance
other than statins to reduce cholesterol, what would that
substance or substances be?
Dr.
Williams: My favorite is niacin. Start with 100 mg a
day and gradually increase to 1 to 2 grams (1,000 to 2,000
mg) a day. This can be done over a two or three month period.
Make sure your multi-vitamin includes a good mix of complete
B vitamins. If you have the initial problem with “flushing”
remember it is only temporary, it normally stops after a week
or two in most people and you can lessen the effects by taking
the niacin with meals. Don’t use time-release niacin, just
regular niacin (B3). Niacin can not only lower LDL cholesterol,
it can raise HDL cholesterol levels dramatically. It’s the
least expensive and one of the most effective ways I know
to quickly and safely lower cholesterol levels.
OHIO:
What are you your recommendations on supplements to help
perimenopausal symptoms - hot flashes/ night sweats etc. I
had used black cohosh in the past but read that that was not
advisable if you have fibroids - thoughts?
Dr.
Williams: Tough question since the situation normally
requires a practitioner that can help ‘balance” the hormones.
I would start by checking axillary temperature for normal
thyroid function (Iosol liquid iodine and a thyroid glandular
can provide support for your thyroid). Add freshly ground
flax seeds (at least a tablespoon a day) to your diet and
increase your vitamin E to 400 to 800 IU daily which will
help with fibroids and hot flashes both. I haven’t seen the
best results using black cohosh. A combination glandular like
Symplex F from Standard Process works well also. You may have
to get help from a natural practitioner to resolve the problem.
sevierville,
TN: In your world wide research, have you discovered
anything to renew body tissue that has been damaged by radiation
from cancer treatment?
Thank you.
Dr.
Williams: If the damage has resulted in destruction and
the formation of scar tissue, which is often the case, I don’t
know of anything thing that renews tissue...sorry. The one
thing that might help remove scar tissue on a microscopic
level, which might help neurological or circulation problems,
and be worth a try would be nattokinase.
CHARLTON
MASSACHUSETTS: IS THE H5N1 VIRUS AS DANGEROUS AS I HAVE
BEEN RECENTLY READING WHAT DO YOU THINK THE LIKELYHOOD OF
SUCH A PANDEMIC OCCURING, AND WOULD AHCC BE SOMETHING YOU
WOULD TAKE AS FRONTLINE DEFENSE.
Dr.
Williams: Yes the Avian influenza virus is dangerous,
very dangerous. It’s my personal feeling that it’s not whether
an influenza pandemic will occur, it just a matter of when.
I’m not sure which viral strain will mutate and be passed
on from animals (most likely birds) to humans, but it will
happen and it will be very hard to stop quickly enough before
it spreads worldwide. AHCC would be one of first line defense
products. I would attack the problem on several fronts including
items like thea saline nasal wash, elderberry extract, high
doses of vitamin C, and eucalyptus oil in the vaporizer.
Norfolk,
VA: I have diabetes & don't want it. I've tried everything
from vanadium to gymnestra sylvestre & more. NOthing helps.
When it isn't 95 degrees, I exercise. Even do so in the evenings
when it is hot. How can I get rid of this forever? I eat good,
don't eat junk food, take about 50 or more supplements a day,
including a good multi. Can't anyone do anything about this?
Two years ago the EVMS was on the news saying they had devised
a cure but would not be available to the public until 2 years.
It's been over that & still no cure. Do you know of anything
or anyone who is even close to the answer to this problem?
Dr.
Williams: It sounds like you’re approaching the situation
correctly. Most natural treatments deal with preventing the
disease by restoring pancreatic function, increasing insulin
production, or improving the insulin’s efficiency at moving
blood sugar. If there is no or very little pancreatic function
it might be that the disease has progressed to the point that
natural therapies won’t work. The best hope at this point
appears to be in the use of stem cells but I have no idea
when that might be available. Based on the fact that diabetes
is rapidly becoming one of the most prevalent diseases of
our time, I would suspect that it might be one of the first
diseases where stem cells will be used on a wide-scale basis.
Baltimore,
MD: Some health advisors recommend carefully balancing
protein and carbohydrates. Do you agree?
Dr.
Williams: I believe that the less refined carbohydrates
you consume, the better. Consuming lower-glycemic foods results
in a longer, healthier life. Proteins are essential for growth
and repair and the regular daily use of a good whey protein
powder is one of the best ways I know to ensure most people
are getting an adequate mix of amino acids. In short, the
quality of what you eat is more important than any specific
ratio.
Baltimore,
MD: Some health advisors recommend using very refined
fish oil and using large quantities of fish oil. What do you
think of that advice?
Dr.
Williams: I personally prefer including more fish in
the diet, particularly sardines. Not only do you get the beneficial
oils but also the nucleotides or building blocks from which
your body creates RNA and DNA. Numerous studies show fish
oil can be beneficial for a wide variety of problems, but
eating fish can have the same benefits if eaten on a regular
basis. In individuals with known heart disease it might be
necessary to use high doses of fish oil in the beginning to
normalize or even stabilize the condition. For prevention
purposes however I prefer regular consumption of fish and
smaller doses of fish oil.
Asbury
Park, NJ: Is there anything I can do to stop getting
up every two to three hours at night to go to the bathroom?(I've
tried pills)Than you.
Dr.
Williams: It sounds like you have benign prostatic hypertrophy
or an enlarged prostate gland. Your doctor can confirm this
with a simple examination and blood test. Fortunately, there
are numerous prostate products on the market which can be
helpful. Saw palmetto extracts like Saw Palmetto Complex from
Enzymatic Therapy is one such product. I would also recommend
a procedure called prostate massage or a simple safe, self-massaging
device called the Pro-State Massager (Model PS New) from High
Island Health at www.HighIsland.com. Reducing congestion and
swelling in the prostate gland allows better emptying of the
bladder and can prevent the need for constant trips to the
bathroom at night.
Denver,
CO: As I read your newsletter and a couple others it
seems that implementing the wonderful recommendations would
have me taking a mountain of vitamins/supplements everyday.
With all the new knowledge I am almost paralyzed with information.
What are the most important - can't live without - recommendations
that I should implement immediately?
Dr.
Williams: Go back to the basics. Drink plenty of pure
water. Start to include a wide variety of vegetables (raw,
when possible) in your diet. Make sure your bowels are moving
properly...if you eat three meals a day, you should have three
bowel movements a day. Additional roughage, water and/or a
good probiotic can solve that problem. Cut out sugar and high
fructose corn syrup sweetened products from your diet. Eliminate
fried foods. Check your axillary temperature to ensure that
your thyroid is working properly. (If found to be inactive,
you can address that problem with liquid iodine, and thyroid
glandular product like Thytrophin from Standard Process Laboratories.)
Don’t use margarine (butter and olive oil instead). Include
more nuts, seeds and fish in your diet. Start a regular exercise
program and stay with it regardless of whether it is simply
walking or something more intense. Then add a good multi-vitamin/mineral
supplement and continue to read and learn. As you learn more
and see how your body works and feels you will be in a better
position to judge what additional supplements you might want
to add to your program.
Clarksville,
Arkansas : I took antibiotics for chronic sinus problems
in years past, and my husband now must take two strong antibiotics
for a year for infection in a hip prosthesis following four
surgeries in two months. What are your recommendations for
dealing with candida yeast problems?
Dr.
Williams: I would use a good probiotic and in your particular
case I would also start taking 2 to 3 tablets of a product
called Lactic Acid Yeast from Standard Process Laboratories.
It uses available carbohydrates to re-establish the bacteria
flora in your lower bowel. The best way to get rid of a candida
yeast problem is to increase the competing benefical bacteria
in the lower bowel with products like probiotics and Lactic
Acid Yeast.
The
Woodlands, TX: My grandchildren both have severe cases
of eczema. I have read that children in Germany do not have
eczema due to a form of Vitamin D that has been treated with
ultraviolet rays. My understanding is that it cures the eczema
within weeks. Thanks to the big pharmaceutical companies,
I understand that the vitamin is not available in this country.
Can you clarify if this vitamin treatment actually works and
if it is available in this country?
Dr.
Williams: The vitamin I think you’re referring to is
a synthetic form of vitamin D. It is available in this country
but only as a prescription item. It also comes with its share
of side effects and it is far from being 100% effective. A
better alternative is a natural diet rich in essential fatty
acids from nuts, seeds, and cold pressed oils, and trying
an elimination diet to see if the problem might be caused
by a food allergy.
San
Marcos CA: I have repeatedly asked your opiniom of the
effectiveness of Oral EDTA Chelation for the removal of atheroscelortic
build up. For some reason the silence on your part has deafing.Maybe
this time will be the charm
Dr.
Williams: I’m not impressed with what I’ve seen through
the use of oral EDTA chelation. I’m not convinced that it
works and personally wouldn’t spend my money on it.
Tucson,
AZ: My 80-year old mother has just recently developed
high blood pressure. Several medications have been tried,
but the side effects have been too bothersome. She eats quite
healthy, tons of wild salmon, and walks for 30 minutes every
day. What are your latest, up to the minute recommendations
for dealing with high blood pressure?
Dr.
Williams: Keep in mind that higher blood pressure at
an advanced age is often normal. Depending on her overall
health it might not be something that even needs to be treated.
The side effects from the treatment may result in worse consequences
than the elevated blood pressure itself. From your brief statement
it appears that overall your mother has a good diet and exercise
program. If her overall health is good I would get a second
opinion if considering the use of medication.
Llano,
Ca.: Being new to natural health care and all the hoop
la about it, how does one really know what works and whats
just sales promotion? Natural healers push a plan and point
to studies that are positive to that plan. Then one reads
a contradicting story by some one in the traditional med profession
also supporting his theory with studies. How does one with
no medical training separate the fly shit from the peper?
Dr.
Williams: It’s not an easy task. I’ve been trying to
do it myself for three decades and it’s still confusing. Even
with my training and education in this area, I’m still learning
every day. There are a lot of conflicts of interest in the
field of medicine and health care, which seems to taint much
of the information being presented, particularly to the public.
I can’t speak for anyone else but personally, I’m only interested
in writing about a therapy, supplement or technique if I know
firsthand that it works or is effective. Since no one product
or therapy works 100% of the time there will always be conflicting
studies as to whether something works or doesn’t work. The
first rule of medicine used to be "do no harm."
Natural therapies still follow that rule. Pharmaceutical products
have both apparent, immediate side effects, as well as side
effects that may take years or decades to manifest. They don’t
"balance" or enhance the body’s natural, innate
healing ability. When it comes to sorting the wheat from the
chaff you’re in the position of having to place a degree of
trust in someone trained in the field of health.
Pensacola,
Florida: What nutrition supplements can help a person
break away from alcohol dependance?
Dr.
Williams: Practically any of the nutrients that help
control blood sugar and enhance adrenal gland function will
be of benefit. Large doses of the B-complex vitamins, vitamin
C, and adrenal glandulars are some examples. It’s very important
to eliminate sugar and simple carbohydrates from the diet
and a the same time eat 5 or 6 small meals (high in protein)
throughout the day to avoid blood sugar fluctuations, which
can trigger an intense craving for alcohol. Additionally,
eliminating the dependence often requires a “geographical
change.” A change of location, friends, hangouts, and lifestyle
might be in order to kick the habit.
cottonwood,az:
is it possible to take too much coq10? It is in several
meds I take and I would not want to take too much in a day
if it can be dangerous to my heart health. I had a CABG almost
18years ago, and have "spells" of PVCs and take
Calcium 1000 mg and magnesium 500 mgs daily at 4 capsules
which equal the 1500 mgs.
Thank you for all the information I read in your newsletters.
Dr.
Williams: I don’t know of any problems with taking too
much CoQ10. It would probably be hard to do, if for no other
reason than it’s so expensive. A good therapeutic dosage would
be 200 to 300 mg a day. Some products are better absorbed
and therapeutic effects can be seen at 100 to 150 mg a day.
Las
Vegas, NV: What are your thoughts on seaweed products
and do you have any upcoming?
Dr.
Williams: I love seaweed. I’ve been working on a mixed
product for several years and was almost ready to introduce
it but the sources I was working with in Australia will no
longer be able to supply the product (the source was from
the cold, pristine waters of Tasmania). I'll continue to look
for sources and hopefully be able to supply the product in
the future.
wakefield
massachusetts: 1.any new treatments for multiple sclorosis?
drugs or herbal supplements?
2.same question as above for diabetes? and hardening of the
arteries and high cholesteral
Dr.
Williams: Since heart disease and diabetes are growing
problems I am constantly investigating and reporting almost
monthly on any new treatments.
Bethesda,
Maryland: What's your opinion on the effacacy and safety
of using Red Yeast Rice and Policosanol for lowering LDL and
raising HDL?
Is taking CoQ10 a wise precaution when taking Red Yeast Rice
and Policosanol?
Dr.
Williams: Both of these are effective in reducing LDL
and since Red Yeast Rice works much like a statin drug it
is advisable to take CoQ10 if you decide to take that product.
See my earlier answer about the use of niacin in lowering
LDL and raising HDL.
Northridge,
CA: Your doctor says you need a hip replacement.
Your condition is such that you tolerate the pain
and your daily lifestyle is "ALMOST" normal but
in a slower pace requiring extra rest.
You are holding a job and you can still drive lond distance
daily.
You feel you can continue for as long as it takes in order
to avoid the surgery and possible future complications.
You want to exhaust all other alternatives prior to commiting
to surgery.
What would be the best remedy at this time and what would
be the damage of postponing the surgery?
Thank you
Dr.
Williams: A couple of suggestions might include the use
of a quality calcium, joint components, glucosamine, and bovine
cartilage in an effort to reduce the pain and at the same
time increase the health of the cartilage in the joint. I
would also start consuming homemade gelatin broths make from
cartilage and bones from chicken and beef. It would be beneficial
to try to put the joint gently through its full range of motion
everyday. Cartilage is like a sponge and the motion helps
remove waste material while replenishing necessary minerals
and nutrients. Niacinamide (not niacin) will also help increase
circulation to the joint. I would suggest 500 mg a day. I
don’t see much downside to postponing the surgery while you
explore other options.
Moorhead,
MN: Do you know of any natural treatments for epilepsy
and/or seizures.
Dr.
Williams: One unusual therapy that has worked successfully
involves the use of jasmine essential oil. The oil is diluted
with other massage oils, lotion or cream (two to four drops
of essential oil to every two tablespoons of base oil or lotion).
Seizure patients were given a couple of full body massages
using the oil. Then, at the first sign of a seizure the patients
were told to take a whiff of the undiluted jasmine essential
oil. In one clinical trial, sniffing the oil stopped the seizures
in 24 of 25 patients. It appears to elicit a conditioned response
and lasted for several months. You’d have to experiment to
see if it works for you and just how often you would need
additional massages (possibly once every month or two). The
amino acid taurine (1,500 to 4,000 milligrams a day) has also
been shown to lessen seizures in some people. Sleep apnea
has also been related to seizures.
Sharpsville,Pa.
16150: I am 84yrs of age.am active in gardening and not
on any meds;however .I do take vitamins. I was thinking about
taking Zinc for my eyes. What is a safe mg to take and how
aften? Thank you.
Dr.
Williams: 10 to 15 milligrams a day is a safe dosage.
Covina,
Calif: What is the best all around nutrient for the heart?
Thank you, Ken Raab
Dr.
Williams: It’s hard to name just one. The heart muscle,
like all muscles, is dependent on several nutrients. Vitamin
E is protective. CoenzymeQ10 increases the efficiency of the
heart.
Portland,
OR: Is there anything I can do to maintain good liver
and intestinal function after having had my gall bladder removed?
Dr.
Williams: I would suggest taking bile salts with each
meal. This will help the digestive process since you have
no gallbladder to store bile salts created by the liver. Without
the gallbladder as a storage container bile salts are constantly
being released in small amounts as they are produced. When
larger amounts are needed to digest fats in the diet they
aren’t available and fat isn’t digested properly. This can
lead to deficiencies in various necessary fats and essential
fatty acids. The list of resulting symptoms and diseases is
long and will manifest for decades to come. A few of these
that come to mind are skin dryness, eczema, cataracts, and
heart disease.
Spencer,
Oklahoma: What safe and effective methods could be used
for the removal of moles and warts?
Dr.
Williams: Warts are one thing, moles are another. Damp
aspirin, crushed and placed on a bandaid with the surrounding
tissue protected with Vaseline, works for warts. Putting duct
tape on warts also works.
I wouldn’t suggest trying to remove moles. Watch for any changes
in shape, size, or color, which can indicate at least a precancerous
condition.
Colgate,
Wisconsin: Is there anything new for the treatment of
extreme psoriasis?
Dr.
Williams: Not that I’ve found but I’m still looking.
Elkin,
NC: Dear Dr. Williams,
My husband and I drink distilled water only. However, we buy
it in plastic bottles at our local supermarket. I have read
that the plastic bottles can be injurious to your health because
of leaching harmful chemicals etc into your body. Could you
please comment on this?
Dr.
Williams: Generally they shouldn’t be a problem when
it comes to distilled water. The problem occurs when the water
is still very hot from the distillation process and then it
is placed in the plastic bottles before it cools. In most
operations the water is allowed to cool first. You could probably
place a call to the company producing the product to make
sure this isn’t happening. Storing distilled water in the
jugs for the short time before use shouldn’t be an issue either.
West
Hurley, NY : For those of us who no longer have a gall
bladder, what nutrients are inadequately digested that may
cause us health problems? and Are there any additional supplements
or digestive aids that should be taken?
Dr.
Williams: Primarily it’s the fats that your body will
have difficulty digesting due to a lack of bile salts. If
you’ve had your gallbladder removed you should without any
doubt be taking a bile salt digestive supplement prior to
each meal. The problems you will begin to experience from
improper fat digestion is long and varied. Immediate symptoms
can be bloating and indigestion following a meal, particularly
one containing fat. Symptoms experienced after years (even
decades) can be dry skin, eye problems like cataracts, heart
and artery disease, and dozens of other conditions. To me
it borders on malpractice when a physician removes a patient’s
gallbladder and doesn’t explain (or they haven’t taken the
time to understand themselves) the serious ramifications of
not supplementing the diet with bile salts.
ventura
california: What do you think of using food grade hydrogen
peroxide internally for getting rid of fungus, bad bacteria
or worms? I have definite symptoms of all three.
What do you think of using virgin coconut oil for skin and
to take internally?
Thank you
Dr.
Williams: I think it works when done properly. Not everyone,
however, seems to tolerate hydrogen peroxide internally. It’s
best if you have someone to help monitor the situation and
you know you have the problems you mentioned and can check
to see how the therapy is actually working.
Virgin coconut oil is great for the skin when used both internally
and externally. I personally use it and give it to my 22 month
old son. We have given it to him since he was probably 1 1/2
to 2 months old. It will also help improve your metabolic
rate and boost your immune process.
Cincinnati,
OH : What vitamins, etc. would you take if you had your
prostate out for prostate cancer. I know you may not choose
to have your prostate removed but this person did. So far
psa is about zero where it should be.
Also what would you recommend for reducing eye pressure? This
question is for a different person.
Will these answers be available after the chat? I will be
out of town that day but would like to see the info?
Thanks. Your newsletter is great.
Dr.
Williams: I would be taking the same vitamins/minerals
that you would use to treat the prostate for BHP. The gland
is a type of “reservoir” for zinc so without it I would make
sure I was getting adequate amounts in the diet...all trace
minerals in fact, since they often have a tendency to work
together. Essential fatty acids are also important as is vitamin
E and exercise. If you think about it this individual was
probably deficient in these substances which allowed the cancer
to form and progress. They are probably still deficient in
the same substances which can cause more problems down the
road.
And yes, the entire chat will be available on the Web site
after we’re finished here.
Simi
Valley, CA: Hi Dr. Williams,
I think I have been with you from the start of Alternatives.
I just checked and have been keeping them from 1989. I am
sorry to say that I didn't keep them before then, but I guess
the info would be outdated anyway.
What I would like to know is what IS plaque and what will
clean the plaque out of arteries. How long does it take to
clean arteries? Does EDTA cleation therapy work? What do you
think about Policosanol? Do you think Pfizer will kill Apo
A-1 Milano now that the bought the company? I get a lot of
plaque on my teeth, is this the same as what is in the arteries?
Why do some people have more than others? Lets have a whole
plaque fest. Do you think root canals can cause heart trouble.
You could devote a whole issue to this....it would be great
reading.
Dr.
Williams: You have asked about a whole issue of questions.
I’ll just briefly cover a little here since there are other
questions people want answered (I can only type so fast...)
At the risk of over-simplifying the matter you could say that
arterial plaque (which is not related to dental plaque) is
a combination of things that the body uses to try to repair
damage to the inside lining of arteries. It may contain various
fats and minerals like calcium. Diet, lifestyle, exposure
to toxins, and heredity all play a role in if and how much
plaque develops in an individual. Intravenous (not oral) EDTA
chelation does work but it’s a slow process. The time needed
depends on the severity of the situation.
I do think root canals can cause heart trouble and chronic
infections leading to poor immune function. Again not every
root canal is a problem, it depends on how it was done, how
sterile the canal was before being filled, the mini-canals
in the tooth itself, etc... I’ve discussed most of these issues
in past newsletters and will do so again I’m sure. Thank for
your support and sticking with me for all this time.
Grand
Prairie Texas: What cure is there for hemmoroids?
What cure is there for Migrains?
Dr.
Williams: The way to naturally treat hemorrhoids can
vary depending if they are internal or external. The first
order of business is to make sure the bowels move normally
(regularly and without having to strain) and are soft. Being
overweight, particularly with a big mid-section, only adds
to the problem. This puts pressure on the intestines and can
block the return blood flow in the veins causing them to bulge,
distend and become a hemorrhoid. Sometimes they require surgery
or "rubber band" treatment from a proctologist.
Oftentimes you can gently stretch the rectum with a gloved,
lubricated finger and the hemorrhoid will be able to go back
in between the circular muscles of the rectum and it will
solve the problem. It’s a longer explanation than I can give
here but have covered it in a back issue of Alternatives.
Migraines can have many, many causes... too many to cover
each one here. Toxicity from diet, constipation, environmental
exposure, prescription or over-the-counter drug use, mis-aligned
vertebra in the neck, "jammed" cranial bones or
cranial sutures (these last two can be corrected by a chiropractor…the
profession that undoubtedly eliminates more headaches than
any other). Other causative factors can be food allergies
(including allergic reactions to supplements and/or herbs),
dehydration, kidney disfunction, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar
problems), circulation problems, etc. etc. Obviously the cure
would depend on the cause.
Madison,
Wisconsin: What in your view would be best treatments
for fibromyalgia that includes chronic fatigue? Am currently
using St.John's Wort and 5-hydroxytryptophan along with a
good diet, supplements, and exercise (moderate). I feel as
if climate and stress are major factors in flare-ups and am
hoping to be able to move to Santa Barbara, Ca within the
next couple of years, feeling that the climate, being near
the ocean, and living close to good friends as well as being
significantly closer to my married son would all be beneficial
to my health. My husband is skeptical that climate will make
much of a difference. I think experiencing fewer climate extremes
will make a big difference. What do you say?
Dr.
Williams: I think climate and stress can play a very
big role. Maybe before you take the drastic step of moving
you could have an extended stay in the new area. I would think
with a month or two you would experience a significant change
if it was going to happen. Many people seem to do much better
after a change in climate.
Sacramento,
CA: What is your scientific opinion of someone taking
supplemental DHEA? My DHEA-Sulfate level was 53 ug/ml on a
normal scale of 95-530. Should it be taken long term? What
good can come from taking and what bad? If too many bads,
like most hormones, what can one do to improve ones body to
increase the DHEA levels?
Thank you
Dr.
Williams: If you continue to monitor your levels as you
apparently have in the past DHEA supplementation can be very
safe and effective. You will probably notice some very positive
results. There is really very little downside. One of my primary
concerns with the use of hormones (of which DHEA is probably
one of the safest) is that most people don’t address the underlying
problem that is responsible for the drop in hormone levels
in the first place. With DHEA it is most often weakened adrenal
glands. It may be fine to take DHEA but I would also suggest
that you do everything possible to strengthen your adrenal
glands. This would include things like avoiding sugars, not
skipping meals, increasing B-complex vitamins and vitamin
C and dealing with unresolved stress, etc.
New
Boston, Michigan: My doctor says that I have C-reactive
protein. What can you tell me about this?
Dr.
Williams: It indicates inflammation somewhere in your
system, usually connected to arterial walls. A high level
can indicate an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, etc.
Your doctor might recommend the use of statins or antibiotics,
but there are some natural things you can use to lower it,
such as essential fatty acids from fish or flax seed, curcumin,
green tea, and exercise.
Lansing,Michigan:
I know that you had advised not to drink pops due to
the carbonation. Does this include sparkling waters also?
Do these deplete calcium supplies in the bones? Thanks
Dr.
Williams: The trouble with soda pop is not from the carbonation,
it's the phosphoric acid, sweeteners, and additives that can
cause bone loss and other problems. Carbonation on its own
is no problem at all.
Clearwater,
Florida: I have subscribed to Alternatives for several
years and also on your recomendation have been taking "Daily
Advantage" nutrients for several years but am now thinking
of switching to another brand because of what i have read
about Vitamin E. I have read in Health publications from the
Cleveland Clinc, Health News, Life Enhancement, Consumer Reports
on Health, Worst Pills-Best Pills,Smart Publications on health
and more.They all said that Vitamin E in new clinicals trials
will not reduce the risk of Cardiovascular disease and Cancer
and may even worsen it if 400 iu or more are taken daily.
I have waited for 3 months to see if you would comment in
Alternatives along with others.Will you please comment here.
Thank You
Dr.
Williams: The evidence in favor of vitamin E is much
stronger than the evidence against it. Hundreds of studies
over the last 50 years have shown that vitamin E works with
other nutrients to support heart health.
There are two big problems with the negative studies. First,
they use synthetic forms of the vitamin, instead of natural
forms. Second, vitamins work together, and the studies have
looked at vitamin E in isolation. Keep taking your E with
confidence.
Arlington,,Texas:
How much nut butter could you consume in lieu of whole
nuts?
Would dry roasted nuts be unhealthy?
Dr.
Williams: If it's freshly made nut butter, you can eat
the same amount as you would of fresh nuts. Keep the container
cool, and closed after you open it. Dry-roasted nuts are not
quite as good for you, because the roasting process destroys
some of the nutrients, particularly the essential fatty acids.
New
Milford, CT: Hi Dr. Williams,
Recently, I've begun using detox pads from 'bodypurenow.com'
on a bi-weekly basis. I put one on the bottom of my right
foot, and 3 or 4 days later, I put one on the bottom of my
left foot and sleep through the night with it taped to either
foot. In the morning, I remove the pad which has turned during
the night to a dark grey color from being pure white when
I put it on the previous evening.
The goal of the pad is to detox the body by placing it on
the meridians on the bottom of the feet that are connected
to the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and kidneys - the organs
responsible for removing toxins from the body.
I tried an experiment just to see if whatever is in the pads
is a material that simply attracts dirt from the body, or
is made from a substance that just turns grey/black when placed
on the human body. So, I taped a pad to the back of my calf
instead of on the bottom of my foot. The following morning,
the result was pretty much a clean, white pad - not very different
from how the pad looks in the package. So, evidently, the
bottoms of my feet do have something to do with detoxification.
My question is this: what is your opinion of these detox pads
and can they help detoxify the body or harm it in some way?
Thanks very much for doing the work that you do. It's a real
education for me to learn alternative means to staying healthy.
Dr.
Williams: Toxins are released through the sweat, so you
are naturally detoxing in this manner already. Perhaps the
pads will help increase the circulation and the production
of sweat--but I don't know that they are actually all that
affective.
Milwaukee,
WI: Dr Williams,
I'm aware that taking multiple drugs can result in drug interactions,
with adverse effects. I do not take any medications, but do
take numerous herbal supplements and have concern that the
same can occur. Supplements I take include a multivitamin,
glucosamine chondroitin, fish oil, Vision Advantage, Joint
Advantage, green tea concentrate, Osteobuild Advantage, vitamin
C, a menopause balance complex and a high power flavonoid
antioxidant. The worrisome concern is that I'm putting all
these substances in my body and don't know what, if any, untoward
effects they might be causing. With the high incidence of
cancer I'm concerned. Please advise regarding this.
Dr.
Williams: The products that I've developed are safe to
be used along with my Daily Advantage. Generally, when you're
taking natural supplements its the same as eating natural
foods that are free of chemicals and other harmful compounds.
Your body will treat them the same as foods. It's difficult
for me to speak about supplements from other companies since
I'm not aware of what they might be including in their products.
You should also look to be sure that you aren't duplicating
substances that causes you to take levels that go beyond research-based
dosages.
Tarzana,
California: Colon health and proper elimination is important,
yet all I ever seem to see written about stools is that they
should be blood-free, well formed, and regular. I would like
to know what stool qualities are cause for concern and why?
Dr.
Williams: Dry, hard stools or loose runny stools are
two signs to look for--but that's really just another way
to say "well-formed." Color is also a consideration
because blacker stools might be an indication of the presence
of blood. Basically, the three things you mentioned really
are the things to be concerned about.
You should also just be sure to eat properly since what's
going in is one of the most important factors in what comes
out.
CLARKS
SUMMIT PA: Most of your recommendations are for adults,
but with 3 young children I was seeking advice in food or
other supplements to boost their immune system and treat asthma.
Thanks for all your help.
Dr.
Williams: As far as diet is concerned, it should be similar
to that of adults--a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Coconut oil and fresh nuts are also important things to consider.
As for supplements, vitamin C is important. One of the best
lines for children is the vitamin supplement Catalyn manufactured
by Standard Process--but you will most likely need to have
them supplied by your family doctor since SP only sells to
medical professionals.
For asthma, Congaplex also by Standard Process is a good supplement
to help reduce symptoms.
Columbus
Ohio: I've always been careful about what I put directly
on my skin (lotions, sun lotion, etc). What is your opinion
concerning swimming pool chlorine on the skin? I swim for
1 hour, 5 times a week, so I'm getting quite a bit of exposure.
Also, does the benefit from the exercise outweigh the chemical
exposure? Right now it is the only form of exercise I'm able
to do. Thank you.
Dr.
Williams: The benefits of the exercise far outweigh any
problems with swimming pool chlorine on the skin. While there
is some evidence that chlorine can be absorbed through the
skin, but I don't really know if it's that big of a concern.
Just be sure to shower after the swim so you can wash off
the chlorine.
Crofton,
Maryland: Is it possible for near-sightedness to improve
by taking a vision
supplement, or would that supplement just help prevent one
from
getting macular degeneration?
Thank you kindly.
Dr.
Williams: In the majority of cases, vision supplements
work to slow down degeneration. It may help in preventing
vision from getting worse, but I don't know of any products
that can reverse near-sightedness.
Tucson,
Arizona: #1. With the concerns about mad cow disease,
where can I buy healthy "whey protein" to use to
fight osteoporosis? I have been using rice whey.
Dr.
Williams: Whey isn't an issue when it comes to mad cow
disease. The concern is with nerve and muscle tissue. There's
no indication that milk protein is involved with the disease.
Nephi,
Utah: There seems to be a controversy about SOY. Please
comment about whether we should or should not be consuming
Soy products, such as milk.
Dr.
Williams: The brief answer is that I would limit soy
products to a large degree because soy mimics estrogen. The
only time I would recommend soy is when it's fermented--tofu,
tempeh, miso, et cetera.
Estrogen-dependent cancers would be the concern I would have
in taking non-fermented soy. Soy-based infant formulas should
probably be avoided by children, and soy milk should be avoided
by everyone.
Salt
Lake City, Utah: I am on several blood pressure pills
and a blood thinner. What can I take (that really works) to
restore my sexual capability? Need something that doesn't
interfere with blood thinner (no vit K) or other medication.
Thanks
Dr.
Williams: Honestly, without knowing your particular medications,
this issue is something that you will need to discuss with
your doctor since one of the side effects of these medications
is impotency. If you're taking any medication that is giving
you an uncomfortable side effect, it is something that should
be discussed with your doctor rather than suffer silently.
Wooster,
Ohio: You mention in the August newsletter, vol 11, that
omega-3 fatty acids ease the worklosd on the adrenals and
moderate the level of adrenal harmones such as cortisol. I
assume that such a condition [as adrenal overload] might be
responsible for symptoms such as high blood pressure and stress
sensitivity. (The basis of my question.) Are there other supplements
and/or foods or measures that can be taken? Specifically,
how about increased vitamin C intake or B-complex?
Dr.
Williams: Yes, vitamin C and B-complex are the two standards
for adrenal support. One of the best things I know to restore
adrenal function is a product called Drenamin from Standard
Process.
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