Neal Barnard, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 Researchers using B6, along with other b vitamins, in patients with acute back pain found that it cut the relapse rate in half over the following six months.22 Large-scale clinical trials have not yet been conducted.
A safe dose of B6 is 50-150 mg per day. Daily doses of 200 mg or higher should be avoided, however, as they are associated with nerve damage.
The amino acid tryptophan may also help. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a natural brain chemical that is important in pain control, sleep, and moods. |
| If your diet is low in b vitamins, the amount of estrogen in your blood may rise.8 Vitamin B6 has also been shown to help with depression, irritability, and other symptoms in some research studies.9,10 ruuus 1 iia i riuni r .a i in
The usual B6 dose is 50-150 mg per day. Avoid higher doses, as they can actually cause nerve problems.
To treat premenstrual headaches, some people have used a combination of vitamin B6 (50-150 mg) and magnesium (200 mg) daily. This combination is most effective when used daily, but can also be used for just five days per month. |
Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
See book keywords and concepts |
 Since high doses of b vitamins can have side effects, seek medical advice before starting a vitamin B supplementation program.
LJ Take 400 international units of vitamin E daily. Taking vitamin E supplements seems to help the body build up its own protective mechanisms against stroke, enabling it to reduce the area affected by a stroke.
LJ Especially if you have been diagnosed with atherosclerosis, avoid fatty meals. Five to seven hours after eating a high-fat meal, especially a meal high in beef fat, the production of clotting factors increases severalfold. |
Bill Gottlieb
See book keywords and concepts |
 Finally, be sure to eat plenty of whole grains, which are loaded with liver-strengthening b vitamins.
Nutrition Is Better
Than Drugs for
High Blood Pressure
There are literally dozens of powerful medications for lowering high blood pressure. According to the nation's top alternative physicians and other experts, however, most people can lower their blood pressures into the safety zone without resorting to drugs.
"Volumes of scientific research show that dietary changes can eliminate high blood pressure—or hypertension—in most patients," says Julian Whitaker, M.D. |
Paul Pitchford
See book keywords and concepts |
 Also, the essential fatty acids in the grain germ and the b vitamins which reside primarily in the germ and bran have a definite healing and sustaining effect on the nerves.
Magnesium in foods is healing to the heart but is virtually lost in the milling of grains and the refining of most other foods. Magnesium allows calcium to function properly in the tissues of the heart and nerves; it also restrains the "anxiety peptide," a complex of amino acids in the brain which appears to contribute to anxiety. |
Dr Bernard Jenson and Mark Anderson
See book keywords and concepts |
 Along came the b vitamins and the cures for beri-beri, pellagra, pernicious anemia, nerve degeneration, enlarged heart, energy production, and much more. These factors all came from unprocessed, whole, natural foods.
It was becoming increasingly clear that vitamins were biological complexes, bundles of enzymes and trace minerals, biological wheels within wheels within wheels. Trying to identify a vitamin in terms of a single chemical structure is self-defeating, because you have to have the whole complex to get the vitamin function. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D., Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 Vitamin C and the b vitamins riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and pyridoxine (B6) are also necessary for normal thyroid hormone manufacture.
Exercise to Improve Thyroid Function
Exercise is particularly important in a treatment program for hypothyroidism. Exercise stimulates thyroid gland secretion and increases tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormone. Many of the health benefits of exercise may be a result of improved thyroid function.
The health benefits of exercise are especially important in overweight hypothyroid individuals who are dieting (restricting food intake). |
Dr Bernard Jenson and Mark Anderson
See book keywords and concepts |
| The micro-intestinal flora, the friendly bacteria that protect the GI tract, synthesize certain b vitamins such as B12, the anti-pernicious-anemia vitamin (made from the trace mineral organic cobalt). Minute levels of this powerful vitamin, measured in micrograms (thousandths of a gram), maintain the health of billions of red blood cells that sustain our life. Antibiotics kill the friendly bacteria that manufacture vitamin B12 in the gut. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D., Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Given the essential role of thiamin and other b vitamins in normal human physiology—especially cardiovascular and brain function—routine B-vitamin supplementation appears to be worthwhile in this age group.
The first study to look at thiamin as a potential adjunct in the treatment of CHF showed only modest benefits. |
Ronald L. Hoffman, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 Of all the b vitamins, pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, has the most profound effect
TU
UN 1 CLUOCIN 1 IVltLUl^IlNll on the immune system. Low levels can globally suppress immunity, inhibiting both antibody production and cell-mediated immune response. Curiously, vitamin B6 deficiency is one of the most common of all vitamin deficiencies, especially among the elderly, who typically have a reduced immune response. Studies have shown that supplements of just 15 milligrams a day can increase immune response. Most B-complex supplements contain 50 milligrams of vitamin B6. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D., Joseph E. Pizzorno, N.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
| A deficiency of any of these b vitamins makes it very difficult for the liver to do its job.
Colon Function
Breast disease has been linked to constipation and to a diet low in fiber.16 Women who have fewer than three bowel movements per week have a 4.5 times greater rate of FBD than women who have at least one bowel movement a day. This association is probably due to the bacterial flora in the large intestine transforming excreted steroids into toxic derivatives or allowing these excreted steroids to be reabsorbed.1 |
| Of course, vitamin C and the b vitamins are also critically important.
In addition to avoiding allergens and enhancing the immune system, locally applied heat is often very helpful in reducing discomfort. It can be applied as a hot pack, with warm oil (especially mullein oil), or by blowing hot air into the ear with the aid of a straw and a hair dryer. These treatments help reduce the pressure in the middle ear and promote fluid drainage.
The following dosage recommendations are given for children. |
| The liver utilizes various b vitamins to detoxify estrogen and excrete it in the bile.
There appears to be support for Dr. Biskind's theory. Estrogen excess is known to produce what is known medically as cholestasis. This term signifies diminished bile flow or stasis of bile. Naturopathic physicians often refer to this condition as a "sluggish liver." It reflects minimal impairment of liver function, because normal indicators of liver function (such as liver enzymes: alkaline phosphatase, SGOT, SGPT, and GGTP) are not elevated. |
Ronald L. Hoffman, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
| Whole grains are excellent sources of b vitamins as well as magnesium, boron, and fiber. The advantage of fiber from a longevity standpoint is that fiber blocks the absorption of cholesterol from food and may even help the body eliminate cholesterol already in the system. Fiber speeds the transit of material through the intestines, which keeps cancer-causing irritants from accumulating. |
Dharma Singh Khalsa, M.D.
See book keywords and concepts |
 B vitamins help provide mental endurance, stable physical energy, and a steady positive mood. The attorney lacked all three characteristics.
His fifteen-year-old daughter—whom I also began treating— had a similar lack of these same three attributes. She had enough intelligence to be a very good student, and enough physical ability to be an accomplished athlete, but she was performing poorly in school, and also in her favorite sport, swimming. |
Paul Pitchford
See book keywords and concepts |
| Except in a few isolated areas, Orientals universally prefer refined white rice, which is stripped of precious oils, b vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. In China, people have been known to stand in line for miles to get a rare treat—refined white bread. White sugar production in China is increasing at an alarming rate, yet always falls short of demand. The traditional teachings of Chinese medicine, however, were written when only organically grown whole foods were available, and very nutritious products were developed from vegetable foods. |
Prevention Magazine
See book keywords and concepts |
 In addition to these important b vitamins, certain greens—particularly beet greens, chicory, and spinach—provide the heart-healthy minerals magnesium, potassium, and calcium. These minerals, along with sodium, help regulate the amount of fluid that your body retains. All too often, researchers say, people have too much sodium and too little of the other three, leading to high blood pressure.
Even though eating leafy greens is an excellent way to help regulate blood pressure, it's important to note that the calcium from spinach and beet greens isn't well-absorbed by the body. |
| Although honey contains trace amounts of minerals and b vitamins, it's really not much more nutritious than plain table sugar. Yet honey does several things that sugar doesn't. Research suggests that honey can relieve constipation, speed healing, and prevent infections. "Some people have called honey a remedy rediscovered," says Peter Molan, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry and director of the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand, who has been studying the healing properties of honey for 15 years. |
The Complete Book of Alternative NutritionSelene Y. Craig, Jennifer Haigh, Sari Harrar and the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books
See book keywords and concepts |
| So if someone says it works for their pets, I don't discourage it. The b vitamins are good for the dog!"
So should everyone start digging in?
"It's nothing magical," says Dr. Gerson. "But if people are concerned about getting these vitamins and minerals, then sure, brewer's yeast is a fine supplement."
You can buy brewer's yeast as tablets, powder or flakes. Doctors recommend not exceeding the daily dosage suggested on the label. And Dr. Haas notes that some people are allergic to yeast, so be sure to talk to your doctor if that's a concern for you. |
| I would still recommend that children, pregnant women and people just starting macrobiotics supplement the b vitamins, especially B12 and folic acid, because they can be difficult to get."
The bottom line, says Dr. Haas, is that while the macrobiotic diet is clearly healthier than the average American diet, it's still possible to miss some important nutrients.
"As long as people feel well, they can continue following the diet without worrying about supplementation," he says. |
Christopher Hobbs
See book keywords and concepts |
 They transform the sugar into small amounts of alcohol, much of which is ultimately changed to acetic acid (up to 3 %) by the bacteria, which also thrive on b vitamins produced by the yeast. This process gives the "tea" a sweet and sour smell of fermenting apple cider. The finished tea is reported to contain on average between 0.5 and 1% alcohol, as well as lesser amounts of lactic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, malonic acid, citric acid, and oxalic acid (List & Horhammer, 1973). |
Prevention Magazine
See book keywords and concepts |
| It does, however, supply good amounts of some key nutrients, like the b vitamins.
A Cap on Cancer
Long esteemed in Japan for their reputed tumor-shrinking abilities, shiitake mushrooms have been attracting global attention because of the cancer-fighting compound that they contain.
These large, meaty black mushrooms contain a polysaccharide, or complex sugar, called lentinan. Polysaccharides are large molecules that are similar in structure to bacteria, explains Robert Murphy, R.N., a naturopathic doctor in private practice in Torrington, Connecticut. |
The Complete Book of Alternative NutritionSelene Y. Craig, Jennifer Haigh, Sari Harrar and the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books
See book keywords and concepts |
| Propolis proponents say that this sticky stuff is not only dripping with droves of nutrients such as b vitamins, minerals and bioflavonoids but also supposedly contains a natural antibiotic called galangin that makes it an immunological wonder. Some even go so far as to call it a natural penicillin.
Unfortunately, all the buzz about propolis's miraculous powers is scientifically unsubstantiated, and doctors say that research needs to be done before they can recommend it for anything. |
Prevention Magazine
See book keywords and concepts |
| Many older people have trouble getting enough b vitamins, which are essential for keeping the nerves and brain healthy. "As we age, the lining of the stomach changes, making it harder to absorb these nutrients," says Dr. Regelson. "After age 55, it's particularly easy to be deficient in vitamin B6."
Potatoes and bananas are your best bets for bringing in the B6. One potato provides 0.5 milligram, 25 percent of the DV, and a banana has 0.7 milligram, 35 percent of the DV. To get more folate (also a B vitamin), you need to eat greens and beans, particularly pinto and kidney beans. |
The Complete Book of Alternative NutritionSelene Y. Craig, Jennifer Haigh, Sari Harrar and the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books
See book keywords and concepts |
| Key nutrients for keeping your genes strong and healthy include the b vitamins folic acid, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, bi-otin and choline. Other gene-boosters are vitamin C and the minerals zinc, magnesium, manganese, chromium and selenium.
If you're going to try supplementing your gene pool anyway, proponents suggest not exceeding 1.5 grams daily. Also, if you have a tendency to develop gout, you should see your doctor before trying any nucleic supplements. They produce excessive uric acid in the body, which may trigger a gout attack.
Man Fats Enzymes ivj. |
the Editors of PREVENTION Magazine Health Books
See book keywords and concepts |
 The level of b vitamins and iron in a typical daily multiple vitamin should be sufficient.
Help from Your Doctor
When uterine growths or undetermined causes result in heavy periods, your doctor can help with medication, or in some cases, surgery.
Reach for anti-inflammatories. Prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may often correct the problem when no specific cause has been found, says Susan Haas, M.D., a reproductive endocrinologist and assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School. |
| Whether you're on a diet or not, a daily multivitamin supplement will help ensure that you get all the vitamins and minerals you need. The b vitamins are especially important in controlling cravings, says Dr. Levitsky.
Chart your PMS flow. Keep track of your cravings for several months to see if any patterns develop, says Dr. Kanarek. Knowing that the real reason you want that chocolate bar is that your period is due in two days may help you understand your cravings.
Be human. Succumbing to an occasional craving means that you're human. |
| Shirley. The b vitamins, for example, may function to help the liver metabolize estrogen, he says.
Breath, Shortness of when to see your doctor
• You're short of breath but cannot breathe more rapidly to compensate.
• You also have chest pain, swollen feet or legs or a history of heart problems.
• You have not been previously diagnosed with asthma or another breathing disorder.
• Shortness of breath is accompanied by wheezing, rapid breathing or coughing up phlegm.
What Your Symptom Is Telling You eing a little winded is entirely natural and harmless if you've exerted yourself. |
| A deficiency of virtually any of the b vitamins or iron-deficiency anemia could be causing the burning," Dr. Abbey says. (This is uncommon in America.) Try taking a daily multivitamin supplement and see if it helps.
Mouth Dryness when to see your doctor
• You have to drink fluids frequently to alleviate thirst and the dry feeling in your mouth.
• Dryness interferes with eating or speaking.
What Your Symptom Is Telling You
It you have dry mouth—doctors call it xerostomia—your salivary glands seem as unproductive as a dead creek bed. Dry mouth is no minor inconvenience, says Michael W. |
| A balanced multivitamin supplement that contains both vitamin C and the b vitamins can help ward off mouth sores, says Dr. Shapira. Ask your doctor if this daily supplement is appropriate for you.
Swallow aspirin—don't suck on it. Aspirin works best in your bloodstream, not when it's applied topically, says Dr. Shapira.
Make sure your dentures fit. Because poorly positioned false teeth can cause mouth sores, have your dentist check the fit at least once a year, says Dr. Shapira. |
Email this page to a friend
