Nature's Pupil

A Systems Theory Approach To An Expanded Medical Model – Introduction

Admin — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 20:51:34 +0000

{A Systems Theory Approach To An Expanded Medical Model was written by Elliott Dacher M.D.} As practitioners, we approach our patients and their problems within the framework of a conceptual model that organizes and defines the questions we ask, the information we seek, the diagnostic and therapeutic options, and ultimately the outcome of our interventions. Because [...]

Nitric Oxide and Heart Disease

Admin — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 20:01:10 +0000

Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency is a major risk factor for heart disease. NO acts at the inner lining of blood vessels, or endothelium, to increase blood flow, prevent fatty deposits from sticking to blood vessel walls, keep walls from getting too thick and stiff, and prevent the arteries from narrowing. All of the major [...]

Change in the Air for Tobacco States

Admin — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:36:58 +0000

In December 2009, Virginia became the first Southern state to ban smoking in bars and restaurants. A similar law recently took effect in North Carolina, the nation’s leading tobacco producer. A more moderate, college-educated batch of newcomers is changing the cultural landscape across the South. According to Ferrel Guillory of the Center [...]

Nitric Oxide and Cardiovascular Health

Admin — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 14:42:19 +0000

(NaturesPupil) Nitric oxide (NO) was proclaimed “Molecule of the Year” in 1992, and research discoveries related to its role in cardiovascular physiology led to a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for three US scientists in 1998. Nitric oxide is a gas molecule produced by cells throughout the body. An enzyme known as nitric oxide [...]

Chocolate Constituent Prevents Tooth Decay

Admin — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 17:18:48 +0000

Theobromine, a substance found in raw cocoa, is more effective than fluoride at strengthening tooth enamel. However, don’t expect to get this benefit simply by eating chocolate. The high sugar content of processed chocolate contributes to cavities. Research and development is underway to produce a toothpaste containing theobromine. Arman Sadeghpour, PhD, [...]

Omega-3 DHA Lowers Risk of Ulcerative Colitis

Admin — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 15:17:10 +0000

A diet rich in a type of omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid was associated with an increased risk of ulcerative colitis. This study found that people who ate the most linoleic acid were 2.5 times more likely to develop ulcerative colitis than those who ate the least amount. In contrast, a high intake of [...]

Food Stamp Program Offers Incentives for Healthy Eating

Admin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:26:47 +0000

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), administered by the USDA, helps low-income individuals and families put food on the table. It is commonly and historically known as the Food Stamp Program. The new name was adopted following enactment of the 2008 Farm Bill, which brought many new changes including expanded coverage and funding [...]

Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Deodorant

Admin — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:31:31 +0000

Everyone wants to avoid body odor, but the use of aluminum-containing antiperspirants and chemical-laden deodorants is unacceptable to those who are aware of their potentially harmful effects. Fortunately, many natural deodorants exist that are made from plant extracts and oils. As part of my effort to replace all household products with safer natural substitutes, I [...]

How Much Vitamin D Should You Take?

Admin — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:13:34 +0000

Perhaps the most common question asked by people who supplement with vitamin D is “How much should I take?” Unfortunately, there is no single answer that applies to everyone. Vitamin D dose should be individualized, and the only way to do so is by measuring a blood level. Ideally, you should have [...]

Vitamin D: Questions and Answers

Admin — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:58:21 +0000

Vitamin D has received a lot of attention lately. As its health implications become more and more apparent through research, it is becoming evident that a significant proportion of the population has inadequate blood levels of the vitamin. It is estimated that up to 58% of US adolescents and adults are deficient. [...]