LEAD THE GOOD LIFE

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

2011-10-13T08:54:00.001-07:00

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer. Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, and prescribed medications. For some people, however, IBS can be disabling. They may be unable to work, attend social events, or even travel short distances.

As many as 20 percent of the adult population, or one in five Americans, have symptoms of IBS, making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors. It occurs more often in women than in men, and it begins before the age of 35 in about 50 percent of people.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

Abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort are the main symptoms of IBS. However, symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have constipation, which means hard, difficult-to-pass, or infrequent bowel movements. Often these people report straining and cramping when trying to have a bowel movement but cannot eliminate any stool, or they are able to eliminate only a small amount. If they are able to have a bowel movement, there may be mucus in it, which is a fluid that moistens and protect passages in the digestive system. Some people with IBS experience diarrhea, which is frequent, loose, watery, stools. People with diarrhea frequently feel an urgent and uncontrollable need to have a bowel movement. Other people with IBS alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Sometimes people find that their symptoms subside for a few months and then return, while others report a constant worsening of symptoms over time.

What causes IBS?

Researchers have yet to discover any specific cause for IBS. One theory is that people who suffer from IBS have a colon, or large intestine, that is particularly sensitive and reactive to certain foods and stress. The immune system, which fights infection, may also be involved

· Normal motility, or movement, may not be present in the colon of a person who has IBS. It can be spasmodic or can even stop working temporarily. Spasms are sudden strong muscle contractions that come and go.

· The lining of the colon called the epithelium, which is affected by the immune and nervous systems, regulates the flow of fluids in and out of the colon. In IBS, the epithelium appears to work properly. However, when the contents inside the colon move too quickly, the colon loses its ability to absorb fluids. The result is too much fluid in the stool. In other people, the movement inside the colon is too slow, which causes extra fluid to be absorbed. As a result, a person develops constipation.

· A person’s colon may respond strongly to stimuli such as certain foods or stress that would not bother most people.

· Recent research has reported that serotonin is linked with normal gastrointestinal (GI) functioning. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or chemical, that delivers messages from one part of your body to another. Ninety-five percent of the serotonin in your body is located in the GI tract, and the other 5 percent is found in the brain. Cells that line the inside of the bowel work as transporters and carry the serotonin out of the GI tract. People with IBS, however, have diminished receptor activity, causing abnormal levels of serotonin to exist in the GI tract. As a result, they experience problems with bowel movement, motility, and sensation—having more sensitive pain receptors in their GI tract.

· Researchers have reported that IBS may be caused by a bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies show that people who have had gastroenteritis sometimes develop IBS, otherwise called post-infectious IBS.

· Researchers have also found very mild celiac disease in some people with symptoms similar to IBS. People with celiac disease cannot digest gluten, a substance found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with celiac disease cannot eat these foods without becoming very sick because their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. A blood test can determine whether celiac disease may be present. (For information about celiac disease, see the NIDDK’s Celiac Disease fact sheet.)

How is IBS diagnosed?

If you think you have IBS, seeing your doctor is the first step. IBS is generally diagnosed on the basis of a complete medical history that includes a careful description of symptoms and a physical examination.

There is no specific test for IBS, although diagnostic tests may be performed to rule out other problems. These tests may include stool sample testing, blood tests, and x rays. Typically, a doctor will perform a sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy, which allows the doctor to look inside the colon. This is done by inserting a small, flexible tube with a camera on the end of it through the anus. The camera then transfers the images of your colon onto a large screen for the doctor to see well.

If your test results are negative, the doctor may diagnose IBS based on your symptoms, including how often you have had abdominal pain or discomfort during the past year, when the pain starts and stops in relation to bowel function, and how your bowel frequency and stool consistency have changed. Many doctors refer to a list of specific symptoms that must be present to make a diagnosis of IBS.

Symptoms include

· Abdominal pain or discomfort for at least 12 weeks out of the previous 12 months. These 12 weeks do not have to be consecutive.

· The abdominal pain or discomfort has two of the following three features:

It is relieved by having a bowel movement.
When it starts, there is a change in how often you have a bowel movement.
When it starts, there is a change in the form of the stool or the way it looks.

· Certain symptoms must also be present, such as

a change in frequency of bowel movements
a change in appearance of bowel movements
feelings of uncontrollable urgency to have a bowel movement
difficulty or inability to pass stool
mucus in the stool
bloating

· Bleeding, fever, weight loss, and persistent severe pain are not symptoms of IBS and may indicate other problems such as inflammation, or rarely, cancer.

The following have been associated with a worsening of IBS symptoms

large meals
bloating from gas in the colon
medicines
wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk products, or alcohol
drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or colas
stress, conflict, or emotional upsets

Researchers have found that women with IBS may have more symptoms during their menstrual periods, suggesting that reproductive hormones can worsen IBS problems.

In addition, people with IBS frequently suffer from depression and anxiety, which can worsen symptoms. Similarly, the symptoms associated with IBS can cause a person to feel depressed and anxious.

What is the treatment for IBS?

Unfortunately, many people suffer from IBS for a long time before seeking medical treatment. Up to 70 percent of people suffering from IBS are not receiving medical care for their symptoms. No cure has been found for IBS, but many options are available to treat the symptoms. Your doctor will give you the best treatments for your particular symptoms and encourage you to manage stress and make changes to your diet.

Medications are an important part of relieving symptoms. Your doctor may suggest fiber supplements or laxatives for constipation or medicines to decrease diarrhea, such as Lomotil or loperamide (Imodium). An antispasmodic is commonly prescribed, which helps to control colon muscle spasms and reduce abdominal pain. Antidepressants may relieve some symptoms. However, both antispasmodics and antidepressants can worsen constipation, so some doctors will also prescribe medications that relax muscles in the bladder and intestines, such as Donnapine and Librax. These medications contain a mild sedative, which can be habit forming, so they need to be used under the guidance of a physician.

A medication available specifically to treat IBS is alosetron hydrochloride (Lotronex). Lotronex has been re-approved with significant restrictions by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for women with severe IBS who have not responded to conventional therapy and whose primary symptom is diarrhea. However, even in these patients, Lotronex should be used with great caution because it can have serious side effects such as severe constipation or decreased blood flow to the colon.

With any medication, even over-the-counter medications such as laxatives and fiber supplements, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Some people report a worsening in abdominal bloating and gas from increased fiber intake, and laxatives can be habit forming if they are used too frequently.

Medications affect people differently, and no one medication or combination of medications will work for everyone with IBS. You will need to work with your doctor to find the best combination of medicine, diet, counseling, and support to control your symptoms.

How does stress affect IBS?

Stress—feeling mentally or emotionally tense, troubled, angry, or overwhelmed—can stimulate colon spasms in people with IBS. The colon has many nerves that connect it to the brain. Like the heart and the lungs, the colon is partly controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which responds to stress. These nerves control the normal contractions of the colon and cause abdominal discomfort at stressful times. People often experience cramps or “butterflies” when they are nervous or upset. In people with IBS, the colon can be overly responsive to even slight conflict or stress. Stress makes the mind more aware of the sensations that arise in the colon, making the person perceive these sensations as unpleasant.

Some evidence suggests that IBS is affected by the immune system, which fights infection in the body. The immune system is affected by stress. For all these reasons, stress management is an important part of treatment for IBS. Stress management options include

stress reduction (relaxation) training and relaxation therapies such as meditation
counseling and support
regular exercise such as walking or yoga
changes to the stressful situations in your life
adequate sleep

What does the colon do?

The colon, which is about 5 feet long, connects the small intestine to the rectum and anus. The major function of the colon is to absorb water, nutrients, and salts from the partially digested food that enters from the small intestine. Two pints of liquid matter enter the colon from the small intestine each day. Stool volume is a third of a pint. The difference between the amount of fluid entering the colon from the small intestine and the amount of stool in the colon is what the colon absorbs each day.

Colon motility—the contraction of the colon muscles and the movement of its contents—is controlled by nerves, hormones, and impulses in the colon muscles. These contractions move the contents inside the colon toward the rectum. During this passage, water and nutrients are absorbed into the body, and what is left over is stool. A few times each day contractions push the stool down the colon, resulting in a bowel movement. However, if the muscles of the colon, sphincters, and pelvis do not contract in the right way, the contents inside the colon do not move correctly, resulting in abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, a sense of incomplete stool movement, or diarrhea.

Can changes in diet help IBS?

For many people, careful eating reduces IBS symptoms. Before changing your diet, keep journals noting the foods that seem to cause distress. Then discuss your findings with your doctor. You may want to consult a registered dietitian who can help you make changes to your diet. For instance, if dairy products cause your symptoms to flare up, you can try eating less of those foods. You might be able to tolerate yogurt better than other dairy products because it contains bacteria that supply the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk products. Dairy products are an important source of calcium and other nutrients. If you need to avoid dairy products, be sure to get adequate nutrients in the foods you substitute, or take supplements.

In many cases, dietary fiber may lessen IBS symptoms, particularly constipation. However, it may not help with lowering pain or decreasing diarrhea. Whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are good sources of fiber. High-fiber diets keep the colon mildly distended, which may help prevent spasms. Some forms of fiber keep water in the stool, thereby preventing hard stools that are difficult to pass. Doctors usually recommend a diet with enough fiber to produce soft, painless bowel movements. High-fiber diets may cause gas and bloating, although some people report that these symptoms go away within a few weeks. (For information about diets for people with celiac disease, please see the NIDDK’s Celiac Disease fact sheet.) Increasing fiber intake by 2 to 3 grams per day will help reduce the risk of increased gas and bloating.

Drinking six to eight glasses of plain water a day is important, especially if you have diarrhea. Drinking carbonated beverages, such as sodas, may result in gas and cause discomfort. Chewing gum and eating too quickly can lead to swallowing air, which also leads to gas.

Large meals can cause cramping and diarrhea, so eating smaller meals more often, or eating smaller portions, may help IBS symptoms. Eating meals that are low in fat and high in carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, whole-grain breads and cereals (unless you have celiac disease), fruits, and vegetables may help.

Is IBS linked to other health problems?

As its name indicates, IBS is a syndrome—a combination of signs and symptoms. IBS has not been shown to lead to a serious disease, including cancer. Through the years, IBS has been called by many names, among them colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon, or spastic bowel. However, no link has been established between IBS and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Points to Remember

· IBS is a disorder that interferes with the normal functions of the colon. The symptoms are crampy abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

· IBS is a common disorder found more often in women than men.

· People with IBS have colons that are more sensitive and reactive to things that might not bother other people, such as stress, large meals, gas, medicines, certain foods, caffeine, or alcohol.

· IBS is diagnosed by its signs and symptoms and by the absence of other diseases.

· Most people can control their symptoms by taking medicines such as laxatives, antidiarrhea medicines, antispasmodics, or antidepressants; reducing stress; and changing their diet.

· IBS does not harm the intestines and does not lead to cancer. It is not related to Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Food Issues - The Bad Substances

2011-10-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Aspartame

When scientific tests were first run on aspartame (which is now known by the brand names: NutraSweet, Equal, etc.), it caused holes in the brains of rats. It would seem logical that such a substance would not be something a human should take internally.

However, knowing that tobacco is legal, it should not be surprising that the profits of large corporations are far more important to society than the health of individual human beings. The politics behind the approval of aspartame is beyond the scope of this article, suffice it to say that massive corruption in government was needed to get this poison approved by the FDA.

Virtually everything a person drinks that is “diet” contains aspartame. Many diet foods also contain aspartame. Things that are “sugar free” may also contain aspartame.

Even skinny people frequently take aspartame in order to stay skinny. In fact, it is hard to find a person who does not routinely take aspartame.

You have probably heard that there is no scientific evidence that aspartame is bad for you. Let me introduce you to the corruption among “science.”

Dr. Ralph G. Walton, M.D., did a study of 166 published studies on the safety of aspartame. The funding of these studies were from the following sources:

1) The pharmaceutical industry funded 74 of the studies

2) The FDA funded 7 studies

3) There were 85 studies that were not funded by the pharmaceutical industry or the FDA

Which of the three groups of studies do you think didn't find anything wrong with aspartame?

Of the 74 pharmaceutical funded studies, not a single one of them found any health problems caused by aspartame. However, of the 85 studies that were not funded by the pharmaceutical industry (i.e. Big Pharma) or the FDA, 84 of the 85 found health problems caused by aspartame. Do you see a pattern here?

Where do you think the 7 FDA studies landed? 6 of the 7 found no health problems caused by aspartame.

See: http://www.dorway.com/peerrev.html

This kind of "science" sounds strangely like what happened with the tobacco industry. During a 42-year period, an organization controlled by the tobacco industry funded 1,500 studies. Not a single one of these studies could find a major health problem caused by tobacco. It seems that scientists are far more loyal to their funding source than they are to the truth.

When I tell someone that aspartame causes brain cancer, birth defects, etc. (actually over 90 different documented health problems), people just look at me and laugh. They will say there is "no scientific evidence" that aspartame causes any health problems. They will say that a person has to drink 800 Diet Cokes to have any bad effects. Unfortunately, it is all a lie that was started by well-paid scientists.

Getting back to real science, aspartame is one of many substances that is called an “excitotoxin.” Excitotoxins, when they get into the brain, cause brain cells to get so “excited” that they literally die or their DNA is damaged. In other words, every time a person drinks a diet Coke some of their brain cells die.

But for the purposes of this article, the side-effects of aspartame can also lead to migraine headaches, depression, anxiety, and a host of other mental problems.

Aspartame’s long-term effects can be even more significant. Aspartame is known to cause brain cancer, leading to a rash of brain cancer among younger and younger people. It can cause dementia and the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. It can cause the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis, and so on and so on.

Someone who is experiencing depression, anxiety, migraines, bipolar behavior, etc. should first and foremost get aspartame completely out of their system.

Unfortunately, even if aspartame is a major part of the problem, stopping the ingestion of aspartame will not solve the problem immediately. Aspartame is stored by the body and will continue to cause symptoms long after the victim quits taking it.

It gets worse. Aspartame and Neotame can cause brain damage to an unborn fetus. This brain damage can be manifest as mental retardation, Cerebral Palsy, autism, ADD, ADHD, brain tumors, and a myriad of other brain related disorders!

There are other things that are also excitotoxins that can cause the same mental problems as aspartame. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is especially bad if it is taken with aspartame. Other things include hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) and cysteine,

Step one in isolating why a person frequently gets depressed or suffers from anxiety is to remove all artificial sweeteners out of their body, plus MSG, HVP and cysteine.

Food Allergies

Many people suffer mental illnesses due to food allergies. The interesting thing about food allergies is that a person craves the foods they are allergic to!! Let me say that again: a person craves the foods they are allergic to!!

I spoke to a doctor once who described a patient who happened to be allergic to bananas. He described that the person was perfectly normal, with perfectly normal behavior, but when the person was given a banana he (or she, I don’t remember) immediately went into a psychotic rage.

Most food allergies are not that dramatic, however. Foods that people are allergic to include dairy products (e.g. milk and cheese), which are probably the number one cause, plus wheat, food colorings, food additives, and just about any other food.

During World War II, the people of Holland suffered great hardships and extreme mental stress. However, mental illness in Holland decreased during World War II!! Why? Because the people basically lived on potatoes and could not get the foods they may have been allergic to.

There are two basic ways a person can isolate food allergies. First, go to a medical doctor who specializes in isolating food allergies.

Another way is to simply stop taking all foods that a person normally takes, especially the ones they crave and eat frequently, and instead eat foods they would rarely eat and avoid the foods that are related to the foods they normally eat!!

This should go on this diet for at least 3 weeks. If this gives some relief to the person there is a pretty good chance food allergies are a contributing factor, if not a major cause. After three weeks foods can be reintroduced into the diet, one food per day, to isolate what might be causing the problem.

Many cases of autism, ADHD, ADD, and many other mental disorders, can also be traced to food allergies, sometimes called brain allergies. And by far the number one cause of these types of allergies is dairy products.

My guess is that food allergies cause an inflammation in the brain that is what actually causes the problem. Migraines can also be caused by food allergies.

A worthwhile book to read on this subject is:

Brain Allergies: The Psychonutrient and Magnetic Connections, by Willam H. Philpott

Heavy Metals (plus aluminum)

The body is a very interesting entity. At times it attacks itself. In an “auto-immune” disease the body mistakes something for an attacking invader and destroys itself in an attempt to kill what it mistakes as an invader.

For example, Type I diabetes is a disease known as an “auto-immune” disease. The body mistakes something for a foreign invader and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas. That “something” may be dairy products, heavy metals (especially mercury from vaccinations) or other foreign items. (Note: there have been recent scientific studies - which were controlled by the pharmaceutical industry - that claim there is no connection between autism and vaccinations, but these studies are a giant lie.

There are many other auto-immune diseases, such as arthritis, MS, and others.

The question is this: "Can mental illnesses ever be caused by an “auto-immune” reaction?"

Well, let’s be logical. It has been known since World War II that heavy metals (e.g. the mercury in dental amalgam or the combination of aluminum pots and fluoride) were the major cause of Alzheimer’s and dementia. In this case, however, it may not be an auto-immune disease as much as the heavy metals simply blocking the functions of the brain.

However, heavy metals are also known to be causes of auto-immune diseases, such as Type I diabetes.

If someone is having mental problems it may be wise (actually it would be wise for anyone to do this) to throw away all aluminum cookware. Aluminum, combined with the fluoride in tap water, creates massive problems, similar to those caused by "heavy metals," even though aluminum is technically not a heavy metal.

In some cases it would be wise to have the dental amalgam removed. However, prior to having this done the mercury level in the blood should be checked to see if this might be a problem. Reduction in the amount of fish that is eaten would also help. If the amalgam is removed, flood you stomach with chlorella prior to going to the dentist.

Another thing is to avoid vaccinations, except for life-threatening situations. Flu shots should be avoided unless the person's life would be jeopardized by catching the flu.

The way to get rid of heavy metals is with "chelation." There are two kinds of chelation: "EDTA chelation," which is an I.V. that must be administered by a medical doctor, and "oral chelation," which is a combination of nutrients. There are numerous nutrients that will "chelate" heavy metals. A discussion of these is beyond the scope of this article. However, I will say that chlorella may be the best chelating food.

Trans-Fatty Acids

Trans-fatty acids are a little more complicated. Trans-fatty acids are rigid molecules that attach to cell walls, in place of the pliable cholesterol. If enough trans-fatty acids attach to a cell wall, significant damage can be done because large molecules, such as the insulin molecule and oxygen clusters, cannot get into the cell. If enough cells become like this the person will likely develop Type II diabetes. It is highly likely that trans-fatty acids, found in margarine, fried foods, peanut butter, etc. are the leading cause of Type II diabetes.

So what does this have to do with depression? Trans-fatty acids interfere with the absorption by the body of EFAs. As will be seen below, omega-3 EFAs are a major help to those with depression or anxiety. In other words, the effect of trans-fatty acids on depression or anxiety is an indirect effect that blocks one of the necessary nutrients needed for good mental health.

PHYTOESTROGEN AND OTHER TASLY HEALTH PRODUCTS - Kuala Lumpur - Health - Beauty

2010-03-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

PHYTOESTROGEN AND OTHER TASLY HEALTH PRODUCTS - Kuala Lumpur - Health - Beauty

SKIN DISORDERS

2010-03-01T19:18:00.001-08:00

Dry skin: Normal healthy skin looks pink, feels smooth & soft is well preserved. If the superficial skin cells are deprived of water, the skin looks parched, cracked, feel rough and hard. There are several reasons for developing dry skin. It can be a result of frequent washing (which removes natural oils) or a failure to protect the skin with regular applications of moisturizing cream. Certain environmental factors like wind, sun exposure & over heated homes can also dehydrate the skin. Some times dryness is hereditary- then it is called ichthyosis. As we age, our skin gradually becomes rough & parched.

Acne: Acne is one of the commonest skin problems. It produces unsightly spots on the face, neck, chest, back & upper arms although traditionally considered a teenage problem (8 out of 10 teenagers suffer from it), acne can affect people even in their forties. One out of every 20 persons in the fourth decade has acne. Even though it is a common problem, acne causes much anguish in the victims, so much advice is preferred to them that they really do not know what to do. More ever acne can some time go on for ages, producing both physical & psychological scars. The sebaceous gland is the site of the problems. These glands produce sebum which, contains cholesterol, fatty acids and waxes, several things can go wrong with this fairly simple process. For example, if the production of sebum increases or if dead cells clog up the openings of the glands, the flow of the sebum gets disturbed. The pores get blocked & black pimples develop as the sebum spills into the surrounding tissue.

These pimples might even get infected. Male hormones, the androgens, are thought to be responsible, at least in part, for the over production of sebum & the consequent development of acne. In the past, diet had been held responsible for aggravating the problem. Hence for years, chocolates, spices & fatty foods were considered a taboo for acne patients. Recent studies however have scientifically exploded this myth. So dietary restrictions are no longer necessary to combat the onslaught of acne. Other factors, which affect acne, are menstruation, stressful conditions, hot humid climates and genetic factors. Cosmetic preparations containing lanolin & paraffin are known to exacerbate. Pimples may also occasionally occur as a side effect of drugs taken for other illness. Oral drugs are required when acne is severe and can not be controlled by local measures. Scars which result from acne require specialized care & management.

Skin allergies: When the skin cannot tolerate certain substances, it reacts to their presence; this reaction can be either in the form of eczema or in the form of hives, this result in itching and redness of the skin. It is often difficult to pin point the cause of the allergy. It could be something you have ingested-foods, medicines, drinks or something you have applied cosmetics, antiseptics or something you have worn-cloths, jewellery or something you have only touched detergents, plants, vegetable, chemicals. So looking for the causes is sometimes really like looking for proverbial needle in the haystack.

Deciding exactly what has caused the allergic reaction is difficult of several other reasons too.

The reaction may take a few hours to few days to develop; it may not develop immediately.

Cosmetics companies are extremely secretive about the ingredients of their products, making it difficult for the patient & the doctor to identify the cause of the rash. The reaction can develop even to minute amounts of the substance & the patients might not even be aware of the contact.

More ever the substances can get on to the skin in all sorts of indirect ways; for example, nail varnish can easily cause reactions on the face because we all touch our face several times a day.

Hives or urticaries: Hives are temporary swellings of the skin, caused by a localized collection of fluid in the dermis due to leakage from the blood vessels. Articaria can result from any of the following: -

· Allergy to foods, pollens or drugs.

· Changing to the temperature.

· Infections, including the presence of worms and Emotional upset.

Some times the cause can not be accurately determined. A few individuals get hives repeatedly, but in most people urticaria usually gets better over a period of time. If the cause can be made out, it is easy to cure urticaria.

Moles & tumors: Moles are actually abnormal multiplication of the pigment cells of the skin. They are usually black or brown, but may some times be pink. They can be smooth or irregular, flat and raised and may even be hairy. They can be present absolutely anywhere on the body. Moles began to appear in childhood and continue to increase during adolescence. An average adult has between 15-20 moles spread over the body. Any mole which, appear later on life or one which changes in size rapidly or one which has a tendency to bleed needs to be treated.

Understanding HIV from the Chinese Perspective

2010-03-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

Through clinical observation and treatment of thousands of people with HIV and AIDS, clinical evaluation of the tongues of over 600 people with HIV infection and/or AIDS, and the use of pulse diagnosis, I have come to understand that HIV infection is triggered by Toxic Heat, and initially attacks the Spleen and Stomach Organ Systems. They are the central organs involved in this complex syndrome and must be supported throughout the entire course of the disease even when the HIV-related disharmonies expand to involve all the other organ systems as well.

The Impact of Toxic Heat

Toxic Heat creates the initial flu-like symptoms that for many people accompany initial exposure to HIV. And as the Toxic Heat moves more deeply into all systems of the body, it triggers a whole variety of common HIV-related symptoms: Pruritis (chronic itching), sore throats, increase in body temperature, feeling like you always have a fever even if one is not present, a nagging sensation that something toxic is present in the body.

Toxic Heat is also responsible for the cascade of Organ System disharmonies in the Spleen and Stomach, Kidney and Liver, which contribute to the major complication associated with HIV infection, wasting. (For detailed information on nutritional management and therapy see the Diet Therapy chapter beginning on page? and the three-part Wasting Program: The Daily Diary; The Cleansing Diet; the Anti-Wasting Program in The HIV Wellness Sourcebook.)

Role of the Spleen and Stomach Systems in the Progression from HIV to AIDS

The Spleen and Stomach Systems govern the digestive process, transforming food energy and fluid into Qi and Xue (blood). As a result the Spleen and Stomach moisten and nurture all the other Organ Systems and channels.

When Toxic Heat disrupts the Spleen and Stomach Systems, it triggers symptoms that are associated with the very early stages of HIV infection. These symptoms include:

fatigue
inability to gain weight no matter how much is eaten
stools
bloating, gas and flatulence and/or dull pain in the abdomen
needing to take naps after meals
Frequent infections.

In addition, symptoms of early stage HIV infection, such as dry skin and lips, set in when the flow of fluids and food essence from the Spleen and Stomach to the Lungs, is disrupted. Often dryness in one area, triggers dampness in another: Spleen Qi deficiency with dampness manifests in early neuropathy (a numbness or tingling sensation often in the hands or feet, lymphadenopathy (swelling and inflammation of the lymph nodes), vaginal candidiasis (yeast) infections, more serious loose stools and/or bloating. Spleen-related diarrhea is prevalent with loose stools and abdominal bloating after eating. Skin rashes, commonly associated with early-stage HIV infection, are a result of Spleen Qi deficiency and Lung disharmonies interacting with the essential substances.

Spleen Qi deficiency also causes deficient Xue (blood). Once this sets in, the door is opened to allow Toxic Heat to enter the depleted blood and penetrate ever deeper into the body. The body then moves into more advanced stages of HIV/AIDS. If unchecked, an increasing depletion of the fluids of the Spleen (the Spleen's Yin aspect) leads to overall Yin deficiency, which in turn can lead to Yang depletion.

Although today the combination of Western and Chinese therapies can arrest (for some period of time) the progression of HIV infection to end-stage AIDS for many people, when the cascade of Spleen-Stomach triggered disorders causes overall Yin deficiency and Yang depletion, wasting becomes severe. Diarrhea stops. The skin becomes drier and drier. Thirst is unquenchable. Fevers spike every afternoon and often in the evenings. The pulse is rapid, thready and superficial. This is a terminal stage of HIV disease. (ED: Yes it is called HIV disease.) Acupuncture and herbs are used to support the Shen (spirit) and the passing over to a new phase of existence.

Associated Disharmonies and Opportunistic Infections

Toxic Heat and the Spleen-Stomach disharmonies weaken the body's overall resistance to assault from both internal and external disease factors and allow other organ systems to become involved. This leads to the development of HIV-related disorders and opportunistic infections. For example, if Toxic heat assaults the Lungs, PCP (Pneumocystis Carinii pneumonia) may develop. Xue disharmonies are associated with Kaposi's sarcoma (a proliferative, circulatory cell disease that causes skin lesions); dampness is associated with candidiasis (yeast infections) and fungal invasions; Yin deficiency and Xue deficiency are associated with MAC (Mycobacterium Avian Complex) ; dampness and Spleen and Lung disharmonies may manifest as chronic sinusitis; disturbed Shen that is associated with mental disturbances that accompany HIV/AIDS; and many more.

Each of these syndromes is detailed in the individual treatment programs in the last section of the book. However, I wanted to make the point here that looking at HIV disease as an assault by Toxic Heat that starts with damage to the Spleen and Stomach, and moves on to include other organ systems and Essential Substances, provides a concise method of describing, diagnosing and treating the whole constellation of HIV-related diseases.

Hepatitis C

2010-03-01T19:01:00.001-08:00

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is increasing in the United States and around the world today. HCV infection is the most common chronic blood borne infection in the United States. More than three-quarters of those who are infected will develop chronic liver disease and up to 20 percent will develop cirrhosis. It is estimated that there are 8,000 to 10,000 HCV-related deaths each year and the US Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health expect the rate to triple in the next 10 to 20 years.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that during the 1980s an average of 230,000 new infections occurred each year. The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted during 1988-1994, indicated that an estimated 3.9 million (1.8%) Americans have been infected with HCV. Most are chronically infected and might not be aware of their infection because they do not have apparent symptoms. Infected persons may transmit the virus to others and are at risk for chronic liver disease or other HCV-related chronic diseases during the twenty to thirty years following infection.


	General symptoms of Hepatitis C virus Acute symptoms of Hepatitis C virus include flu-like symptoms, dark urine, light stools, jaundice, fever, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, and itching skin. Chronic HCV symptoms include fatigue, malaise, weakness, mild fevers, liver pain, decreased appetite, and itching skin. However, many persons infected with HCV do not have obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages of chronic infection with HCV.

HCV infection is found within people of all ages. The highest prevalence rates of chronic HCV infection are found among those aged 30-49 years and among males. The highest incidence of acute hepatitis C is among 20-39 year olds with men having a slightly higher rate of acute infections. Because most HCV-infected people range between 30-49 years old, the number of deaths caused by HCV-related chronic liver disease could increase significantly during the next 10-20 years as more likelihood of complications develop.

While African Americans and whites currently have similar occurrence of acute infection, African Americans have a substantially higher prevalence of chronic HCV infection than do whites. Latinos have the highest rate of acute infection.

The CDC identified most risk factors associated with HCV transmission in the US in case-control studies conducted during 1978-1986. These risk factors included: blood transfusion, injection drug use, patient care or clinical laboratory work employment, sex partner or household member who has had a history of hepatitis, multiple sex partners, and low socioeconomic level. These studies reported no association with military service or exposures resulting from medical, surgical, or dental procedures, tattooing, acupuncture, ear piercing, or foreign travel, although it may be that the frequency of infection through these means may be too low too detect.

Currently, the highest rate of acute infection is among injecting drug users. Acute HCV infection is basically undetected in people who have had transfusions and in hemophiliacs since the early 1990s, since the blood supply in the US has been tested for HCV since 1990, with more sensitive tests developed in 1992.

Chinese Traditional Medicine for HCV

Many people with HCV are turning to Chinese traditional medicine, which has a rich history in the treatment of chronic hepatitis. Hepatitis B — and increasingly, Hepatitis C — is prevalent throughout China, accounting for increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in the mainland Chinese population. The Chinese medical system has been dedicated to solving the problem for many years, working to eliminate sources of hepatitis as well as developing treatments for hepatitis using both Chinese traditional medicine and Western medicine.

At the International Symposium on Viral Hepatitis and AIDS held in Beijing in April 1991, more than 100 papers on viral hepatitis were presented, several of which documented positive results of studies of Chinese herbal medicine. Studies of herbal antivirals and Xue-cooling and Xue-circulating herbs for repairing liver damage supported the hundreds of years of practical experience with Chinese herbs for the symptoms of hepatitis.

A literature review by Dr. Kevin Ergil in 1995 revealed at least 55 herbal formulas that may be used to treat hepatitis clinically. Recent herbal studies in China and Australia showed positive results in hepatitis C using similar formulas to those used widely in clinics in the US.

In the US, Chinese traditional medicine is a popular complementary or alternative therapy among patients with chronic liver disease. In a late 1990¡s anecdotal report from one of the largest clinical hepatology practices in San Francisco found that at least 20 to 30 percent of patients report use of Chinese herbal interventions for hepatitis. The level of use is probably underestimated because patients often choose not to divulge the use of complementary and alternative medicine therapies to their Western primary care physician.

Chinese medicine uses nutrition, acupuncture, heat therapies such as moxibustion, exercise, massage, meditation, and herbal medicine for the treatment of people with HCV. Protocols have been developed that have successfully helped HCV infected people to decrease symptoms, normalize or lower liver enzyme levels, and slow down the progression of liver disease.

A pilot study conducted among people co-infected with HIV and hepatitis at the Quan Yin Healing Arts Center in 1995 indicates that acupuncture alone may have an effect in lowering and normalizing liver enzyme levels.

The Hepatitis Help section explores the use of TCM treatment for HCV as well as the use of a comprehensive East/West approach to healing the liver. This section also explores the use of traditional Chinese medicine as both adjunctive and as an alternative to current Western treatment.

Quan Yin Healing Arts Center

Quan Yin Healing Arts Center is a traditional Chinese medicine clinic and community center located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District.

For 20 years, the Quan Yin clinic and center has provided acupuncture, therapeutic massage, Chinese herbal medicine, Chinese exercise classes, meditation classes, nutritional counseling, comprehensive alternative/complementary medicine, and Western medicine support.

Quan Yin Healing Arts Center was founded in the early 1980’s with the view that there is a place for traditional Asian medicine in Western society, and that it could be complementary to Western medicine. The leadership and practitioners of Quan Yin have always been innovative and forward-looking; therefore it has become an internationally respected treatment center that provides affordable primary care traditional Chinese medicine services.

For example, in 1984, the Quan Yin clinic became the first to offer full-service traditional Chinese medicine to treat HIV+ people and, in 1989, offered the first comprehensive Chinese medicine approaches for people affected by the hepatitis C virus.

Other innovative programs include the Hand and Wrist Clinic, Women’s Wellness Programs, and the Cancer Support Treatment Program. Our Executive Director and practitioners coordinate all complementary medicine programs with Western providers as needed.

Description of Diabetes

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Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce insulin or to use the insulin produced in the proper way. Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death among Americans; over 15 million Americans suffer from one form or another of this disease.

After a meal, a portion of the food a person eats is broken down into sugar (glucose). The sugar then passes into the bloodstream and to the body's cells via a hormone (called insulin) that is produced by the pancreas.

Normally, the pancreas produces the right amount of insulin to accommodate the quantity of sugar. However, if the person has diabetes, either the pancreas produces little or no insulin or the cells do not respond normally to the insulin. Sugar builds up in the blood, overflows into the urine and then passes from the body unused. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage:

eyes - leading to diabetic retinopathy and possible blindness
blood vessels - increasing risk of heart attack, stroke and peripheral artery obstruction
nerves - leading to diabetic neuropathy, foot sores and possible amputation, possible paralysis of the stomach, chronic diarrhea
kidneys - leading to kidney failure

Diabetes has also been linked to impotence and digestive problems. It is important to note that controlling blood pressure and blood glucose levels, plus regular screenings and check-ups, can help reduce risks of these complications.

There are two main types of diabetes, Type I and Type II:

Type I diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes (formerly called juvenile-onset diabetes, because it tends to affect persons before the age of 20) affects about 10 percent of people with diabetes. With this type of diabetes, the pancreas makes almost no insulin.

Type II diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. This was previously called "adult-onset diabetes" because in the past it was usually discovered after age 40. However, with increasing levels of obesity and sedentary lifestyle, this disease is now being found more and more in adolescents - and sometimes even in children under 10 - and the term "adult onset" is no longer used.

Type II diabetes comprises about 90 percent of all cases of diabetes. With this type of diabetes, either the pancreas produces a reduced amount of insulin, the cells do not respond to the insulin, or both.

There are three less common types of diabetes called gestational diabetes, secondary diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT):

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and causes a higher than normal glucose level reading.

Secondary diabetes is caused by damage to the pancreas from chemicals, certain medications, diseases of the pancreas (such as cancer) or other glands.

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is a condition in which the person's glucose levels are higher than normal.

Causes and Risk Factors of Diabetes

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The cause of Type I diabetes is genetically based, coupled with an abnormal immune response.

The cause of Type II diabetes is unknown. Medical experts believe that Type II diabetes has a genetic component, but that other factors also put people at risk for the disease. These factors include:

sedentary lifestyle
obesity (weighing 20 percent above a healthy body weight)
advanced age
unhealthy diet
family history of diabetes
improper functioning of the pancreas
minority race (higher risk in Black, Hispanic, American Indian, westernized Asian and native Hawaiian populations)
medication (cortisone and some high blood pressure drugs)
Women having given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 lbs.
previously diagnosed gestational diabetes
previously diagnosed IGT

Symptoms of Diabetes

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Usually, the symptoms of Type I diabetes are obvious. That is not true for Type II. Many people with Type II do not discover they have diabetes until they are treated for a complication such as heart disease, blood vessel disease (atherosclerosis), stroke, blindness, skin ulcers, kidney problems, nerve trouble or impotence.

The warning signs and symptoms for both types are:

Type I: Frequent urination, increased thirst, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, irritability, nausea and vomiting.

Type II: Any Type I symptom, plus: unexplained weight gain, pain, cramping, tingling or numbness in your feet, unusual drowsiness, frequent vaginal or skin infections, dry, itchy skin and slow healing sores.

Note: If a person is experiencing these symptoms, they should see a doctor immediately.

Diagnosis of Diabetes

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Besides a complete history and physical examination, the doctors will perform a battery of laboratory tests. There are numerous tests available to diagnose diabetes, such as a urine test, blood test, glucose-tolerance test, fasting blood sugar and the glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) test.

A urine sample will be tested for glucose and ketones (acids that collect in the blood and urine when the body uses fat instead of glucose for energy).

A blood test is used to measure the amount of glucose in the bloodstream.

A glucose-tolerance test checks the body's ability to process glucose. During this test, sugar levels in the blood and urine are monitored for three hours after drinking a large dose of sugar solution.

The fasting blood sugar test involves fasting overnight and blood being drawn the next morning.

The glycohemoglobin test reflects an average of all blood sugar levels for the preceding two months.

Treatment of Diabetes

2010-03-01T18:40:00.000-08:00

A landmark study, the 10-year, multi-center Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT), has now shown that intensifying diabetes management with stricter control of blood sugar levels can reduce long-term complications.

The results of DCCT are extraordinary in that they prove that tight control of glucose levels can in fact dramatically slow the onset and progression of diabetic complications in both Type I and Type II diabetes. Additionally, researchers have found strict attention to diet and exercise also helps in the management of diabetes.

Management of Type I Diabetes

Virtually everyone with Type I diabetes (and more than one in three people with Type II) must inject insulin to make up for their deficiency. Until recently, insulin came only from the pancreases of cows and pigs (with pork insulin more closely duplicating human insulin). While beef, pork and beef/pork combinations are still widely used, there are now two types of "human" insulin available: semisynthetic (made by converting pork insulin to a form identical to human) and recombinant (made by using genetic engineering). All insulin helps glucose levels remain near normal (about 70 to 120 mg/dl).

Different types of insulin work for different periods of time. The numbers shown below are only averages. The onset (how long it takes to reach the bloodstream to begin lowering the blood sugar), peaking (how long it takes to reach maximum strength) and duration (how long it continues to lower the blood sugar) of insulin activity can vary from person to person and even from day to day in the same person.

Rapid or Regular Activity: Onset is within half an hour and activity peaks during a 2 to 5 hour period. It remains in the bloodstream for about 8 to 16 hours. These fast-acting, short-lasting insulins are useful in special cases: accidents, minor surgery or illnesses, which cause the diabetes to go out of control or whenever insulin requirements change rapidly for any reason. These are also being used more and more in combination with a long-acting insulin or alone (prior to meals and at bedtime).

Semilente: A special type of short-acting insulin that takes 1 to 2 hours for onset, peaks 3 to 8 hours after injection and lasts 10 to 16 hours.

Intermediate-Acting: Reaching the bloodstream 90 minutes after injection, intermediate-acting insulin peaks 4 to 12 hours later and lasts in the blood for about 24 hours. There are two varieties of this type of insulin: Lente (called L) and NPH (called N).

Long-Acting: These insulins, which take 4 to 6 hours for onset, are at maximum strength 14 to 24 hours after injection, lasting 36 hours in the bloodstream. Long-acting insulin is referred to as U (for Ultralente).

Please be aware of the following problems that exist with insulin intake:

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is sometimes called an insulin reaction or insulin shock. It can occur suddenly in people using insulin if too little food is eaten, if a meal is delayed or in the case of extreme exercise. Symptoms include feeling cold, clammy, nervous, shaky, weak or hungry, and some people become pale, have headaches or act strangely.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) occurs when too much food is eaten or not enough insulin is taken. The warning signs are large amounts of sugar in the urine and blood, frequent urination, great thirst and nausea.
Ketoacidosis (in its most severe form - diabetic coma) develops when insulin and blood sugar are so out of balance that ketones accumulate in the blood. Symptoms include high blood sugar or ketones in the urine, dry mouth, great thirst, loss of appetite, excessive urination, dry and flushed skin, labored breathing, fruity-smelling breath and possible vomiting, abdominal pain and unconsciousness.

In addition to daily injections of insulin, regular physical activity and a controlled diet are essential. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends the following daily dietary guidelines:

Up to 70 percent of all calories should be obtained from carbohydrates and unsaturated fats. These carbohydrates should be mainly complex carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugars (simular to those in milk and fruits). Examples of unsaturated fats are vegetable oils and margarine.
Between 10 and 20 percent of calories should be obtained from protein.
Less than 10 percent of all calories should be obtained from fat. Saturated fats are found in animal products and in some vegetable oils (such as coconut, palm, and palm-kernel oils).
Eat 30 to 35 grams of fiber.
Eat no more than 300 mg of cholesterol.

For Type I diabetes, the meal plan should be tailored to the person's individual needs and is likely to include three meals and two or three snacks a day. A person with diabetes must eat these meals and snacks at set times each day to properly balance insulin.

Management of Type II Diabetes

The ADA recommends diet (see ADA guidelines stated above) and regular physical activity as the first line of treatment for Type II diabetes. If normal glycemic levels are not achieved within three (3) months, drug treatment is recommended.

Currently there are four (4) classes of prescription drugs available for the treatment of Type II diabetes:

Sulfonylureas (Diabinese, Dymelor, PresTab, Orinase, Tolinase, Micronase, DiaBeta, Glynase, Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL and Amaryl), which stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin.
Biguanides (Glucophage and Metformin), which keep the liver from releasing too much glucose.
Alpha-glucoside inhibitors (Precose), which slow the digestion of some carbohydrates.
Thiazolidinediones, which control glucose levels by making muscles more sensitive to insulin and reduce the amount of glucose that the liver produces.

Clinical trials suggest that oral antidiabetic agents - particularly the new noninsulin secretagogues (including Troglitazone and Metformin, which act on the liver and skeletal muscle) - may be useful in delaying or preventing development of Type II diabetes. Both agents, acting primarily by different mechanisms of action, also have demonstrated potential beneficial effects on serum lipid profiles.

Although these oral medications work in different ways, they can be combined to work more effectively to manage Type II diabetes. When these combinations of oral treatments are no longer effective (for about 60 percent of people with Type II diabetes), the doctor will start a regimen of insulin alone or in combination with an oral medication.

Prevention of Diabetes

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There is no foolproof way to prevent diabetes, but steps can be taken to improve the chances of avoiding it:

Exercise. Studies of both men and women have shown that vigorous exercise, even if done only once a week has a protective effect against diabetes. Exercise not only promotes weight loss but lowers blood sugar as well.
Lose weight. There is evidence that both men and women who gain weight in adulthood increase their risk of diabetes. A study conducted at Harvard showed that adult women who gained 11 to 17 pounds since the age of 18 doubled their risk of diabetes; those who gained between 18 and 24 pounds almost tripled their risk. Fact: 90 percent of diabetics are overweight.
Diet. The use of a diet low in calories and in saturated fat is an ideal strategy for preventing Type II diabetes. (See the ADA guidelines stated in the TREATMENT section).
Stop smoking. Smoking is especially dangerous for people with diabetes who are at risk for heart and blood vessel diseases.
Use alcohol in moderation. Moderation for men means no more than two drinks a day; for women, one drink is the limit. Choose drinks that are low in alcohol and sugar such as dry wines and light beers. If you use mixers, try to select one that is sugar free, such as diet drinks, club soda, seltzer or water. If you take diabetic pills or insulin, alcohol can drop blood glucose levels too far. Have the drink with a meal or snack.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Diabetes

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How often does the blood sugar need to be checked?
What are the best monitoring techniques for this?
How do you measure glucose levels?
What type of insulin or insulins will you be prescribing?
Who would help in learning about and giving injections?
Do you have a dietitian you could recommend?
How much can exercise and diet control the diabetes?
Is there information available or assistance on planning a regular exercise program?
What is important for family members to learn also?
How do you recognize a diabetic reaction and when should a doctor be notified?
What are the signs and symptoms of insulin deficit and excess?
What measure should be taken for either condition?
Are there any other signs or symptoms that need to be reported to the doctor?
When traveling, is an adjustment in the insulin dose needed?
Can OTC medications be taken?
If so, what is the medication and what are the side effects?
(Women) Should there be a concern about taking menopause-based medicine with insulin?

The Differences between Diabetes Insipidus and Diabetes Mellitus

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Trying to explain what diabetes Insipidus is can be challenging enough, without having it confused with "the other diabetes"-sugar diabetes (diabetes mellitus). Both share the word "diabetes" in the name, and both involve thirst and frequent urination, although in DI, urination is more frequent and in much greater volumes than the more common sugar diabetes, and the urine is subsequently extremely dilute and a very pale yellow color or almost clear. But beyond that, there's not much else in common. Some people with DI refer to their condition as either "central DI" or "nephrogenic DI" (depending on what's applicable), because it avoids the confusion caused when people not familiar with DI hear the word diabetes.

The more you know about both diabetes Insipidus and diabetes mellitus, the better able you are to explain your condition to others-from family members to primary care physicians or emergency technicians.

A good starting place is to know the meaning of the words themselves. Diabetes is derived from the Greek verb diabainein, which means to stand with legs apart, as in urination. Diabetes mellitus means, literally honey-sweet urine (back when doctors would sometimes actually taste people's urine to make a diagnosis). Diabetes Insipidus means bland or insipid urine.

There are four forms of DI: central DI (also referred to as pituitary or neurogenic DI), nephrogenic DI, gestational DI and dipsogenic DI. DI is caused by the lack of the antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin) or the kidney's inability to respond to this hormone.

Sugar diabetes, or diabetes mellitus, comes in two different forms: adult-onset diabetes and insulin-dependent diabetes. Sugar diabetes is caused by lack of the hormone insulin. Not only are DI and sugar diabetes separate conditions, but the diagnostic tests and treatments are different, as well.

The table below sums up the major differences:

	Central DI	Nephrogenic DI	Diabetes Mellitus
How common is the condition?	Uncommon	Uncommon	Common
What causes the condition?	The pituitary is unable to secrete vasopressin or the hypothalamus is unable to make vasopressin.	The kidneys are unable to respond to the diuretic hormone vasopressin. It is acquired (as in lithium-induced nephrogenic DI) or may be inherited, usually by male children.	Not enough of the hormone insulin is secreted, or the body's cells do not respond to it. Heredity, stress, obesity, pregnancy and drugs can also lead to diabetes mellitus.
What do these hormones do in our bodies?	Vasopressin is a diuretic hormone that controls water metabolism. It is made in the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) and is stored and secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (also in the brain).	It causes the kidney to reabsorb water. Water that is not absorbed is released to the bladder as urine.	Insulin is made in the pancreas, where it controls carbohydrate metabolism. It controls sugar (glucose) levels in the body.
How do I know if I have this condition?	Sudden or gradual urination of large amounts of clear, or almost colorless urine (polyuria), accompanied by excessive thirst (polydipsia). Dehydration can occur if fluid balance is not maintained.	Sudden or gradual urination of large amounts of clear, colorless urine (polyuria), accompanied by excessive thirst (polydipsia). Dehydration can occur if fluid balance is not maintained.	Excessive urination (polyuria), excessive thirst (polydipsia), excessive appetite (polyphagia). You may experience a sudden or gradual change with no symptoms. Other symptoms include tiredness, weight gain or loss, and skin infections that do not heal.
How is the condition diagnosed?	Water deprivation test/vasopressin test. Also, MRI to determine if the post pituitary bright spot is present.	Water deprivation test/vasopressin test.	Fast blood sugar-24hr. post-prandial test. Glucose tolerance test.
How is the condition managed?	Balance fluid intake and urine output. Replace antidiuretic hormone, vasopressin (usually with synthetic hormone: desmopressin), find, if possible, underlying injury to pituitary gland that is causing the condition.	Balance urine output with fluid intake. Treatment with thiazide and potassium-sparing diuretics. Low-sodium diet (500-600 mg/day or less for adults; 300 - 500 mg/day for children).	Correct sugar/insulin intake. Prevent progression of disease. Change the diet. Oral medication.

Chinese Medicine

2010-03-01T18:04:00.001-08:00

What is Chinese Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is one of the great herbal systems of the world, with an unbroken tradition going back to the 3rd century BC. Yet throughout its history it has continually developed in response to changing clinical conditions, and has been sustained by research into every aspect of its use. This process continues today with the development of modern medical diagnostic techniques and knowledge.

Because of its systematic approach and clinical effectiveness it has for centuries had a very great influence on the theory and practice of medicine in the East, and more recently has grown rapidly in popularity in the West. It still forms a major part of healthcare provision in China, and is provided in state hospitals alongside western medicine.

Chinese medicine includes all oriental traditions emerging from Southeast Asia that have their origins in China. Practitioners may work within a tradition that comes from Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan or Korea. It is a complete medical system that is capable of treating a very wide range of conditions. It includes herbal therapy, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and exercises in breathing and movement (tai chi and qi gong). Some or several of these may be employed in the course of treatment

Chinese herbal medicine, along with the other components of Chinese medicine, is based on the concepts of Yin and Yang. It aims to understand and treat the many ways in which the fundamental balance and harmony between the two may be undermined and the ways in which a person's Qi or vitality may be depleted or blocked. Clinical strategies are based upon diagnosis of patterns of signs and symptoms that reflect an imbalance.

However, the tradition as a whole places great emphasis on lifestyle management in order to prevent disease before it occurs. Chinese medicine recognizes that health is more than just the absence of disease and it has a unique capacity to maintain and enhance our capacity for well being and happiness.

Herbal Medicine and Modern Pharmacology

There is a growing body of research which indicates that traditional uses of plant remedies and the known pharmacological activity of plant constituents often coincide. However, herbal medicine is distinct from medicine based on pharmaceutical drugs. Firstly, because of the complexity of plant materials it is far more balanced than medicine based on isolated active ingredients and is far less likely to cause side-effects. Secondly, because herbs are typically prescribed in combination, the different components of a formulae balance each other, and they undergo a mutual synergy which increases efficacy and enhances safety. Thirdly, herbal medicine seeks primarily to correct internal imbalances rather than to treat symptoms alone, and therapeutic intervention is designed to encourage this self-healing process.

What can Chinese Medicine treat?

Chinese medicine is successfully used for a very wide range of conditions. Among the more commonly treated disorders are:

Skin disease, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, urticaria

Gastro-intestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, chronic constipation, ulcerative colitis

Gynecological conditions, including pre-menstrual syndrome and dysmenorrheal, endometriosis, infertility

Hepatitis and HIV: some promising results have been obtained for treatment of Hepatitis C, and supportive treatment may be beneficial in the case of HIV

Chronic fatigue syndromes, whether with a background of viral infection or in other situations

Respiratory conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, and chronic coughs, allergic and perennial rhinitis and sinusitis

Rheumatological conditions (e.g. osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)

Urinary conditions including chronic cystitis

Diabetes, including treatment and prevention

Psychological problems (e.g. depression, anxiety)

Are herbs safe?

Chinese herbal medicines are very safe when prescribed correctly by a properly trained practitioner. Over the centuries doctors have compiled detailed information about the pharmacopoeia and placed great emphasis on the protection of the patient. Allergic type reactions are rare, and will cause no lasting damage if treatment is stopped as soon as symptoms appear.

Tasly Nigeria Awards Car to Rank-2 Health Star Distributor

2010-02-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

Tasly Nigeria held its first car awarding convention for Rank-2 Health Star distributors at All Seasons Plaza in Lagos on the morning of 27 September 2008. At the convention a brand-new SUV was awarded to Ms. Merry Vanderpuye, a rank-2 Health Star. This SUV is the first car award in Nigeria and even in the whole Western Africa.

The award was presented by Mr. Zhang Yang, General Manager of Tasly Nigeria. Holding the key in her hands, Merry Vanderpuye was so excited that she shared her joy of success and her experience with other distributors to show her gratitude to Tasly and motivate others to achieve success as she did.

In addition, laptops were presented to two Fast Developing Award winners and bonuses were presented to the top 3 distributors for August in western Nigeria, Osakwe Amaka, Akindiji Akinsola and Rita Orji.

After the award ceremony the participants shared their experiences on how they joined Tasly and became a distributor and the way on how a distributor can succeed and what rewards can be obtained by a successful distributor. Inspired by the introduction, the distributors expressed their belief in realization of their dreams under the leadership of Tasly and their willingness to work hard to develop Tasly Business to make their dreams come true.

How To Be A Member

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To become a member of Tasly Phar.-International, you only need to pay a little money and hence enjoy the benefit of product purchasing at distributor's price. To enjoy the benefits from both products and business, you only need to recommend our products and business to others.

For more detail information, you can call/contact

Henry Mitchell Chinedu: +60146379718

Personal website: http://www.chimithen.co.cc/

Business Opportunity Video

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Are you struggling towards a better life for you and your family? Are you getting the rewards your hard work deserves?

Join in Tasly Phar.-International, we will provide you the flexibility to work where and when you want, giving you time for family and friends as well as the opportunity to earn a good income. In our team, we will offer you all the personal support and assistance you require to become the Independent Business Owner you to help you succeed and finally in control of your life.

Business Profile

2010-01-27T21:46:00.003-08:00

Tasly Phar.-International is a global direct selling organization wholly owned by China Tasly.

Tasly Phar.-International takes the Greater-Health industry as its orientation and modern TCM as its core business and it scope covers businesses of herbal plantation, healthcare products, cosmetics, health drinking and new package industries. It has grown up to be an international group of companies by conducting the corporate philosophy of 'Harmonizing Human and Nature, Improving the Quality of Life' and adhering to the mission of modernization and globalization of TCM.
Our confidence in our products comes from what our customers around the globe tell us: these products produce result which they have expected; they are the result of modern technology applied to ancient TCM philosophy; and they are the perfect marriage of the modern and the classic.
Most importantly, our excellent products and compensation plan demonstrate our commitment to provide you superior nutritional herbal supplements with opportunity to earn good money.
It is our honor that you have chosen Tasly to realize your personal healthy and financial dreams. Welcome to Tasly Business, and best wishes for your heath and success.

Contact Us

2010-01-27T21:46:00.001-08:00

Tasly Nigeria held Seminar successfully in Kano

2010-01-24T20:35:00.001-08:00

Kano, the second largest city and northern commercial center of Nigeria, witnessed a successful training seminar held by Tasly International on Feb.23rd 2008. The seminar attracted about 100 distributors from different cities of Kano.

The seminar began with speeches on inspiration and career plan made by a famous trainer Yusuff Moore who is a level-7 distributor in Tasly Group. The audiences were inspired by his speech highly. Mr. Tim Wang, marketing manager of Tasly Nigeria, gave a detail introduction on the company and the top-quality products then which made distributors know more about Tasly products and the career. One of the distributors expressed that it was wise to choose Tasly career and he believed that it can bring health and success to human.

During this seminar, we also had lucky draws and award giving ceremony. Ten people got either Tasly calendar or Tasly T-shirt, and one lucky person got the mp3 player. They were really happy about this seminar and more and more interested in this business.
After the seminar, Tim Wang, Matt Wang (the northern region manager) and Yusuff Moore visited every shop in Kano to get more knowledge about Kano people and Kano business.
In future, the company will give more support for the local trainers in Kano and let more and more people understand Tasly business in this big inland city.

Owerri Witnessed Wonderful Seminar held by Tasly Nigeria

2010-01-24T20:19:00.000-08:00

On Mar 2nd, 2008, Tasly held a big seminar at a splendid conference center in Owerri, Nigeria, where Tasly’s service center is situated. More than 200 people, including Tasly distributors, people who are interested in Tasly business, and even government officials and physician doctors. attended the meeting.

Tim Wang is making introduction

Tim Wang, the marketing manager of Tasly Nigeria, firstly introduced Tasly products and unique advantages of Tasly career. The speech gave attendees overall understanding about the fresh slogan “Tasly is Unique".

Dr. Merry Vanderpuye is making speech

Dr. Merry Vanderpuye, a Tasly top distributor in Nigeria, shared her wonderful experience in Tasly business as well as her knowledge on methods to become success in this business then. People were all motivated by her speech. After the seminar, one of the distributors told Tasly Eastern Manager, Eric Zhang that he is confident in Tasly and believe it will achieve success in eastern Nigeria.

REGISTER NOW TO BE A MEMBER

2010-01-21T07:19:00.000-08:00

As a registered member you must have an number ID which indicates your membership with tasly Africa, with this id you can contact the head office either by visitation in person or phone, and all you need to know about the contact will be brought to lime light.

For further enquiry you can contact me by email [chimithen@taslyproducts.co.cc] and i will put you through in both the purchase of the health products and the marketing channels which goes "pari pasu".

To get your name registered for free tutorials and Newsletter. CLICK HERE

Company Profile

2010-01-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

Tasly was founded on May 1994. Through decades of development with Great Health industry as guideline and pharmaceutical industry as its center, Tasly has become a hi-tech group whose scope of business includes modern TCM, chemical medicine, biological medicine, healthcare products, functional food, covering the fields of research and development, planting, manufacturing and distribution.

Tasly was successfully listed as public company (Class A stock ) in Shanghai Stock Exchange on August 8th, 2002, which symbolizes the start of capital operation of Tasly. This spurs on Tasly to make large dose determination in accelerating its progress in all aspects.

In recent years, Tasly's strategy of internationalization is being conducted in full swing. Tasly had already set up two organizing systems of international trade and international direct sales, and established a global marketing mode of expanding from developing countries to developed countries, and taking direct sales as major force to bring along distribution method. Key regional markets have taken shape in Southeast Asia, Europe, North America and Africa. Its major products have registered in 34 countries and regions, and Cardiotonic Pill undergoes FDA and EMEA Phase II and Phase III clinical trials.

By the end of 2006,only in Africa, the number of members reaches 220,000, covering 20 countries. The overseas branches earned $31.58 million in sales, and $6.97 million foreign exchange through self-run export. Local influence of the brand effect has taken shape. Channels for overseas cooperation keep expanding, and this lays solid foundation for TCM entering into the main stream of international medical market.

Photos of Tasly delegation and American experts

after FDA approved Cardiotonic Pill as IND

Cardiotonic Pill was approved to sell in Russia and South Korea

Mr. Milton, the international marketing expert who give the suggestion of marking to TASLY

Establishment of communication cooperation with international enterprises

TASLY KASLY AFRICA (NIGERIA)

2010-01-21T07:02:00.000-08:00

TASLY KASLY AFRICA (NIGERIA)

C-TRONS I.T. COMMUNIQUE

HEALING THE WORLD WITH MODERN DAY CHINESE MEDICINE

TASLY KASLY PRODUCTS

We offer life saving products and services. These products are modern day Chinese herbal drugs which vary in their various function as their packages differ. Many of these products are effective in Asthma, Bronchial infection, viral and bacterial infections, stress, body immunity, skin irritations, liver & kidney diseases, diabetes, infertility, tumor & cancerous growth, ulcers, indigestion, joint & arthritic pain, fatigue while others are preventing diarrhea, infection, aging, as well as enhancing skin beauty. our simple network business channel flows in line with our sales and supply of these life saving products. For detailed enquiry on how to get your products and services, please contact us at :chimithen@yahoo.com

PRICE LIST

(Prices are in NIGERIA NAIRA)

v PROPOLIS SOFTGEL CAPSULES(400MG X 30)To regulate blood pressure and blood sugar level...........................3,000

v ROYAL JELLY SOFTGEL CAPSULE(500MG X30)Regulating blood sugar, strengthen memory, improve quality of sleep.........3,500

v PROPOLIS & GLOSSY GANADERMA(250MG X30)Immunity, antioxidant & good for cancer treatment.........................2,500

v PROPOLIS & WATER LILY CAPSULE(500MG X 30)For prostrate, constipation & weight loss..............................2,200

v PROPOLIS SYRUP(20ML)For ulcers wound, healing natural antibiotics...............................................4,000

v GINSENG RH2 CAPSULE(350MG X 30)Cures about 40 types of cancer anti – tumor, vitality & longevity, blood tonic...8,200

v CAMELIA POLLEN TEA(1500MG X 20)Improve immunity, retard aging, get rid of fatigue, and reduce fat...............2,250

v DANSHEN TEA(2,500MG X 20)Detoxifier and cleanses your entire system.............................................2,150

v DANSHEN PILL (C – PILL)(250MG X 30).............................................................................3,750

v KING’S CAPSULE(6 CAPSULES)Corrects male fertility...............................................................6,000

v OMEGA - 3(500MG X 60)Good for eyes, kidney & heart nourish brain. Excellent for pregnancies.....................5,900

v CORDYCEPS CAPSULE(500MG X 60)Natural anti – biotic & inflammation, liver & kidney problems.....................4,200

v PHYTOESTROGEN(500MG X 90)Balance estrogen in women, fibroid and infertility.....................................3,750

v DE - TOXIN SHEETS(8 PICS)Removes waste from the body, swollen joints/arthritic pain.............................4,000

v FOOT MASSAGER[RT – 2006A].......................................................................................85,600

v DUAL – USAGE MASSAGE CUSHION[RT – D006].........................................................................15,000

v MASSAGER TAPPER[RT – Q010]......................................................................................12,000

v CENFORTE(100 TABLETS)...........................................................................................3,900

v RED YEAST TABLETS(500MG X 60)...................................................................................3,500

v A1 CAPSULE(400MG X 60)..........................................................................................9,000

v BITTER MELON POWDER(30 CAPSULES)Reduce blood sugar & blood lipid. For diabetes type I & II......................3,750

v CEREBRAL CARE GRANULES(4G X 10 SACHETS)Nourishes brain & revive vital energy....................................3,400

v NANO IRON + VIT. C(40 TABLETS)Vitamin C tablets build blood + give you better health condition..................2,500

v STARTER KIT.....................................................................................................2,600

v MILK CALCIUM TABLET(100 TABLETS)For strong bone & good health. For children, pregnant women & elderly persons...3,830

v CARDIOTONIC PILL Improve blood circulation, good for stroke, diabetes,

v high blood pressure, pain, arthritis, tuberculosis, Asthma.

v HERBAL SANITARY PADS Anti – bacterial, prevention & good healing

v BEE POLLEN SOAP Skin beauty, relieve itching, antibacterial, fragrance

v HONEY PROPOLIS SOAP Skin beauty, relieve itching, antibacterial, fragrance

v ALOE FIBRE PLUS Enhance immunity, weight loss, toxin cleansing, relieve constipation.

v NANO COOL GEL For immediate pain relief

v KASLY WATER DISPENSER For pure, clean & hygienic water

v HERBAL COSMETIC For radiant & healthy skin

v TUMMY RELIEF For stomach pain, acid regurgitation, belching & indigestion

v RICE COOKER Pressure pot

v CAR SEAT MASSAGER

ID NO:

23135420

CHUKWUNAGOROM CHINEDU MITCHELL HENRY

HOME ADDRESS:

34 LIASU ROAD, EGBE TOWN, LAGOS NIGERIA.

AWAY ADDRESS:

BLK A-11-17, Menara Alpha Condominium, Seksyen 2, Wangsa Maju, 53300 Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

chimithen@yahoo.com

+60146379718

chimithen@taslyproducts.co.cc

POSITION: AGENT MARKETER

RANK: INDEPENDENT MARKETER (ID)