The show will air on Monday afternoon, March 26th, 12:00pm to 2:00 pm Pacific Time, 1:00 to 3:00 Mountain, 2:00 to 4:00 Central, and 3:00 to 5:00 Eastern time. My testimony will begin at 3:00 PM CST.  You can listen to the show live stream at http://www.rumormillnews.com/ffmp3/ffmp3.html  via the chat room hosted by Luella May at http://chatroom.themicroeffect.com (General Chat) or you can call in toll free at 888-747-1968.

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The main objective of the study was to investigate effects of carvacrol in mice fed with a high-fat diet, which is an important model and cause of modern day obesity, and to study the potential underlying mechanisms focusing on the gene expression involved in adipogenesis, thermogenesis and inflammation.

Male mice were divided in three groups: 1) those who were fed a normal diet, 2) those fed a high-fat diet,  and 3) those fed with a 0.1% carvacrol-supplemented diet. Body weight, visceral fat-pads (known as organ fat or intra-abdominal fat) and biochemical parameters were determined. Adipose tissue (connective tissue which stores fat) genes and protein expression levels were also assessed.  The mice fed with the  carvacrol-supplemented diet exhibited significantly reduced body weight gain, visceral fat-pad weights and plasma lipid levels (trygliceride and cholesterol levels) compared with mice fed with a high-fat diet.  Furthermore, the high-fat-diet induced up-regulations of adipose tissue genes and protein associated with the signaling cascades that lead to adipogenesis and inflammation but were significantly reversed by dietary carvacrol supplementation.

In summary, under experimental conditions carvacrol prevented obesity in high fat-diet fed mice by decreasing body weight, visceral fat-pad weights and lowering plasma lipid levels. The evidence obtained in this study suggests that carvacrol appears to inhibit visceral adipogenesis most likely by suppressing bone morphogenic protein-, fibroblast growth factor 1- and galanin-mediated signaling, and it also attenuates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in visceral adipose tissues by inhibiting toll like receptor 2 (TLR2)- and TLR4-mediated signaling.

It is significant to note that the amount of carvacrol used in the study is a typical amount that one would use when supplementing with oregano oil.  A 1500 calorie diet would need approximately 1.5 calories of carvacrol and a 2000 calorie diet would need approximately 2 calories.  If one is consuming 1500 calories per day he or she would need 166 mgs of carvacrol, or 222 mgs for a 2000 calorie diet.

According Byron Richards, CCN, “a key part of the weight gain problem for any person is that immune cells start having an inflammatory party within white adipose tissue, attracting even more immune cells and causing progressive inflammation.  This problem locks in the dysfunction of white adipose tissue and contributes to stubborn weight issues.  This is the first study showing that carvacrol can directly improve this difficult problem, helping break a vicious cycle.”

Five Scientific Studies Demonstrating that Oregano Oil is Effective in Alleviating Inflammation

The first study, published in the journal Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology, discovered that oregano oil significantly improved rat colitis, or inflammation of the colon. When compared to the control group, the oregano-treated rats showed much greater success in terms of visual disease signs such as ulceration and swelling,

In a second study, reported in the journal Mediators of Inflammation, thyme and oregano oils were used in conjunction and found to benefit colitis in mice. The oils reduced the levels of cytokines, biochemical traditionally associated with inflammation. The results found oil treatment led to lower mortality and reduced tissue damage in the animals.

A third study an investigation reported in the journal Phytomedicine examined the effects of carvacrol on liver regeneration. Carvacrol is one of the key active ingredients in oregano oil. Rats with their livers surgically removed were assigned to two different groups. One group was treated with carvacrol and the other served as the control group. The carvacrol group experienced noticeably increased liver-weight gain.

A fourth study found in Phytomedicine discovered that carvacrol protected the livers of rats that also had blood supply restricted to those organs. The investigators found that carvacrol was nontoxic to rat livers used in the study.

In the fifth and final study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that an active ingredient in oregano can cure additional instances of inflammation. This ingredient, known as beta-carophyllin (E-BCP), was administered to mice with inflamed paws. In seven out of ten experiments, there was a subsequent improvement in inflammation symptoms. Researchers believe E-BCP might be of possible use in treating osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis.  Beta-carophyllin works by docking on specific receptor structures in the cell-membrane – the so-called cannabinoid-CB2 receptors. The result is a change in cell behavior, inhibiting the cell’s production of phlogogenic signal substances. According to investigator Dr. Jürg Gertsch, E-BCP has been used to treat mice with swollen paws due to inflammations. In 70 percent of cases where the treatment had been administered, the swelling subsequently subsided.

Many of the oils available in today’s market are derived from non-oregano species, such as various types of marjoram as well as species of thyme. Julia Lawless, author of The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, says that the vast majority of oregano oil is not labeled correctly, because it is derived from thyme, that is Spanish thyme.  I  highly suggest using a cold-pressed pharmaceutical grade formula of Wild Organic Mediterranean Oregano with at least 79-80% carvacrol content such as  Oregasil.  This is the oregano oil that I suggest to clients as well as the one that our family uses.

Research Articles

http://www.jnutbio.com/article/S0955-2863(11)00019-2/abstract

Oregano is a Powerful Natural Medicine for Many Types of Pain

Oregano Oil – Antibacterial, Antifungal and effective against Food Poisoning

The blood samples from the subjects, who were dementia-free at baseline, were analyzed to determine plasma levels of vitamin E (alpha-, beta-, gamma, and delta-tocopherol; alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocotrienol).  The subjects were then followed up for 6 years to record any incidents of Alzheimer’s disease.  The risk of Alzheimer’s disease was reduced by 45 percent among participants who had their total tocopherols in the highest tertile, 54 percent among those whose total tocotrienols were in the highest tertile and 45 percent in those who had their total vitamin E in the highest tertile, compared to those in the lowest tertile.

According to another study, Georgia Health Sciences University researchers report in the journal Nature Communications that full-spectrum vitamin E helps repair tears in the plasma membranes that protect cells from outside forces and screen what enters and exits. Vitamin E appears to aid repair in several ways. As an antioxidant, it helps eliminate destructive byproducts from the body’s use of oxygen that impede repair. Because it’s lipid-soluble, vitamin E can actually insert itself into the membrane to prevent free radicals from attacking. It also can help keep phospholipids, a major membrane component, compliant so they can better repair after a tear.

Tocopherols and tocotrienols plasma levels are associated with cognitive impairment

Abstract

Vitamin E includes 8 natural compounds (4 tocopherols, 4 tocotrienols) with potential neuroprotective activity. α-Tocopherol has mainly been investigated in relation to cognitive impairment. We examined the relation of all plasma vitamin E forms and markers of vitamin E damage (α-tocopherylquinone, 5-nitro-γ-tocopherol) to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Within the AddNeuroMed-Project, plasma tocopherols, tocotrienols, α-tocopherylquinone, and 5-nitro-γ-tocopherol were assessed in 168 AD cases, 166 MCI, and 187 cognitively normal (CN) people. Compared with cognitively normal subjects, AD and MCI had lower levels of total tocopherols, total tocotrienols, and total vitamin E. In multivariable-polytomous-logistic regression analysis, both MCI and AD cases had 85% lower odds to be in the highest tertile of total tocopherols and total vitamin E, and they were, respectively, 92% and 94% less likely to be in the highest tertile of total tocotrienols than the lowest tertile. Further, both disorders were associated with increased vitamin E damage. Low plasma tocopherols and tocotrienols levels are associated with increased odds of MCI and AD.

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0197458011004982

As far as use, not surprisingly, antidepressants come in number one with over 20 percent of women on a drug typically prescribed to treat depression. Anxiety treatments used by women are at almost twice the rate of men; however, greatest use is found among middle-aged women (45-65 years old – note these ages are normally the ages of peri-menopause and post menopause), 11 percent of whom were on an anti-anxiety drug last year.  

The number of women on ADHD drugs was 2.5 times higher than in 2001- outnumbering men in their use of these drugs. The almost unbelievable concern was seen in 20-44 year old women where numbers rose 264 percent in ten years!

Do Adjustment Disorders Really Require Drugs?

Adjustment disorders, the name of the diagnosis in which these drugs are usually prescribed, are basically those times in life when stress may be at its highest – marital concerns, divorce, job loss, job change, relocation, loss of home, death of a loved one, care giver to an elderly parent or sick spouse, etc.  Certainly no one would argue that all of these situations produce tremendous stress and emotional conflict.

Most of the antidepressant drugs currently prescribed are part of the Valium family of drugs and are quick acting – something that our “convenience-reigns-supreme” society adores. While this convenience may allow someone to seemingly be able to deal with their symptoms, these drugs also come with many side effects as well as the great possibility of becoming permanently hooked on a chemical.  Not to forget that antidepressants treat only symptoms and thus do not get to the root of the concern.

I am amazed at how many doctors prescribe antidepressants to women who have textbook symptoms of hormone imbalance and/or adrenal exhaustion. Yet because serum (blood) testing indicates the hormones are in balance, the woman is made to feel like her symptoms are all “in her head” when the doctor hands her a script for antidepressant drugs assuring her that this bottle of pills will make things better. If more doctors used saliva testing for hormones, in most situations a much more accurate diagnosis could be made thus allowing the real root concern to be addressed. This one change could end thousands of scripts for antidepressants that are given to peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women – unnecessarily.

According to Dr. David Muzina, a psychiatrist and national practice leader of the Medco Neuroscience Therapeutic Resource Center: “…with antidepressant medications in young adults, there is a risk early on of an increase in suicidal thoughts and perhaps suicidal behavior that clearly needs to be monitored very closely. The other example would be with the atypical antipsychotics, which have been associated with an increase in cholesterol. There’s an association with Type 2 diabetes, and it can be a very rapid onset. Thinking about the overall health risks is crucial.”

Actually, research shows that antidepressants don’t help many people. A major U.S. government study released in 2006 indicated that fewer than 50 percent of people become symptom-free on antidepressants, even after trying two different medications. And many who do respond to medication go back into depression within a short time period, despite being religious with their drug treatment. Other studies indicate that the benefits of depression medication have been exaggerated, with some researchers concluding that, when it comes to mild to moderate depression, antidepressants are only slightly more effective than placebos.

Side Effects of Antidepressants

The most widely prescribed antidepressants are from a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. These include popular antidepressants such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil.

SSRIs act on the brain chemical serotonin. Serotonin helps regulate mood, but it also plays a role in digestion, pain, sleep, mental clarity, as well as other bodily functions. Thus SSRI antidepressants can cause a wide range of side effects such as:

While some side effects can disappear after using the drug for a few weeks, others can continue and may get worse. And if you are over 65 be aware that studies show SSRI medications can increase the risk for falls, fractures, and bone loss. SSRIs can also cause serious withdrawal symptoms if one decides to stop taking them abruptly.

Natural Remedies for Stress, Depression and Anxiety

Going through emotional trauma and stress can be discouraging and trying to get back on-track seems almost impossible. However, there are many natural things that one can try before running to the doctor for an anti-depressant.  For many, these remedies are literally life-savers and as an added bonus they come with no toxic side effects.

Cleansing & Detoxification.  Total body cleansing is something that even many natural medicine practitioners don’t consider important or necessary.  However, the fact is that even if one puts the cleanest food and the best supplements into their body, if the digestive track and liver are sluggish then one will not get the total benefit of everything that is being consumed. The liver has been called the seat of the emotions.  A sluggish liver as well as constipation can be the culprit of misappropriated anger, stress, mood swings, hormone imbalance and an overall feeling of fatigue.

Healthy Diet. You can actually change your mood with what you eat and drink. Eliminating just sugar, which is known to alter mood, can help many adults as well as children to become more emotionally balanced. Unfortunately sugar is often the first thing reached for when we get emotionally taxed. Why?  Because sugar gives a very short emotional lift which seemingly makes one feel better. However, that “sugar high” is quickly followed by a crash making one feel fatigued and moody. Try to make it a practice to reach for Omega 3 fatty acids (needed for normal brain function) such as sardines, flax seeds, hemp seeds and walnuts. Avoid caffeine and alcohol intake as both can bring one’s mood down. Try juicing your vegetables.  According to Cherie Calborn, The Juice Lady: “Greens like spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in folic acid—a deficiency contributes to depression.  Magnesium deficiency is linked with depression, poor attention, memory loss, fear, insomnia, and restlessness (including restless leg syndrome).  Juice magnesium-rich vegetables—beet with greens, spinach, Swiss chard, collards, and parsley.  Chlorophyll in dark greens helps fight depression. Fennel juice has been a traditional tonic to help release endorphins—the feel good chemicals that elevate mood and dampen anxiety and fear.  According to folklore, celery helps you forget your troubles from a broken heart and soothes your nerves.” 

Water.  Your body requires no liquid other than pure, clean water. Water is used for virtually every biological and cellular function necessary for life and health. Our cells are bathed in water. Drinking one-half of your body weight in ounces of pure, clean water every day is a basic stress prevention technique.  I highly suggest using a Wellness Water Carafe to filter your water.

Sunshine. For many people inadequate light (sunshine) can make any type of depression worse.  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is more common in the winter months for those that live in areas that receive less sunlight.  If possible take a daily walk in the sunshine. Consider purchasing a light-box for winter months. Sunlight on the body also increases the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood and increases the adrenaline available to the tissues and overall tolerance to stress.

Adequate Sleep.  Often, sleeping difficulties are the first sign of depression. Just as we need proper light during the day, the body needs proper darkness at night in order to be able to heal and repair sufficiently.  Restful sleep and mood are very connected.  University of Pennsylvania researchers found that subjects who were limited to only 4.5 hours of sleep a night for one week reported feeling more stressed, angry, sad, and mentally exhausted. When the subjects resumed normal sleep, they reported a dramatic improvement in mood. I suggest being in bed by 10:30 PM every night, even weekends. Make sure your bedroom is dark and cool. Turn off computers, TVs, cell phones, etc. Turn the alarm clock away from your face and put a cloth over it to block out the light or better yet, move it across the room. Forty-five minutes before bed take a warm bath with 1 cup of Epsom salts added to the bath water. Keep bed linens clean and fresh.

Exercise.  The American Council on Exercise indicates that one of the most effective methods of stress relief is exercise. Regular exercise reduces the amount of adrenal hormones the body releases in response to stress. Exercise also helps your body release greater amounts of endorphins which are powerful, pain-relieving, mood-elevating chemicals in the brain.  No gym membership is required. Walking, rebounding, bicycle riding, swimming, tennis, yoga, Wii sports or exercise games, etc.  Anything that gets your body moving can be effective. Exercise also helps open four of the body’s elimination routes: breathing, sweating, urination and defecation.

Aromatherapy.  Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils for psychological and physical well-being. Aromatherapy can affect your mood and help alleviate or temporarily eliminate stress or other psychological factors.  Some good oils to try are peppermint, lavender, lime or any of the citrus oils.

EMF Sensitivity.  Every day, we literally walk through a maze of electromagnetic radiation. Detrimental energies from electromagnetic fields emitted from high tension wires, industrial radar, microwave beams, electric current, wi-fi, computers, cell phones, televisions, fluorescent lights, and other electrical appliances have been found to be dangerous to mental and physical health. When an individual sleeps or works for extensive periods within electromagnetic frequency zones, these energies create a constant source of stress (altering body polarity) which can lead to fatigue, frustration, tension and illness. Signs of exposure may include drowsiness, chronic aches and pains, sleep disorders, irritability, low energy and general malaise and may lead to more serious health situations such as cancer. Purchase EMF protection products for your cell phone, office area, home, computer, water pipes and appliances.

Hormone Balance.  Many women and their doctors don’t quite understand the huge connection between the hormonal changes that occur during peri-menopause/menopause and depression. Estrogen dominance, unbalanced cortisol levels, thyroid and adrenal dysfunction can make one feel horrible and eventually lead to depression. Performing a simple saliva test will allow you to know your hormone levels and which, if any, need to be balanced. Saliva testing measures the unbound biologically active hormone levels, while serum (blood) testing only measures the protein bound biologically inactive hormone levels in the body. If you are experiencing depression and stress – saliva test your hormones levels before using any type of hormone replacement therapy or using antidepressants.

Meditation. Meditation allows us to get quite and still for a period of time.  Even scripture reminds us to “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10. Taking time to quiet the mind of the cares of the day allows the body to actually relax and restore to a calm state as well as helping one to reduce negative emotions. Many believe that mediation is literally a “refueling” time for their body and mind. Meditation is also a good time to practice lymphatic drainage with deep breathing exercises.

Supplements. The following supplements are suggested for stress, depression and anxiety:  Vitamin D-3; Vitamin B6; Max B-ND (B Complex); 5-HTP (do not combine 5-HTP with antidepressants); Lithium Orotate; Magnesium Orotate; Free Aminos; Melatonin ND and Methylcobalamin B-12 Select.  Every person should be on an organic, liquid multi-vitamin/mineral complex such as intraMAX. Without a doubt, minerals are “the gift of life” and cellular function becomes impossible without them. The 74th Congress, 2nd Session of United States declared 99% of Americans are mineral deficient because our foods no longer contain adequate amounts of essential Organic trace minerals critically necessary to maintain health and promote healing.

Talk, Talk, Talk.  Find a trusted and non-judgmental friend or practitioner who you can talk to about the happenings in your life.  Many times just the act of speaking deep-down thoughts can be cleansing and refreshing to the mind.  Anger, unforgiveness, victim mentality and hurt from past wrongs all need to be dealt with and put to rest. You will be amazed at the freedom you experience once toxic emotions are healed.  Two excellent books to read are Feelings Buried Alive Never Die and the sequel Healing Feelings…From Your Heart by Karol Truman.

When dealing with stress, depression and anxiety it’s so easy to be talked into the quick fix “pop-a-pill” philosophy rather than take the time necessary to address the entire body. Certainly one can use only the supplements suggested above and get some good results, but choosing to address all possible causes will give the best results with the added benefit of helping support your body toward healing and health!  You will not only look better and feel better – you will “be” better.

Even with all the beverages available to most people, I still see dehydration at an alarming rate. Dehydration impairs your ability to think, drive, and perform crucial tasks. With age, many confuse thirst with hunger causing overeating and thus more dehydration.

Water helps to ensure adequate electrical functioning so your brain and nervous system function properly. Researchers estimate that your brain gives off about the same amount of electricity as a 60 watt light bulb. So, there’s some truth to the image of a light bulb going on when someone has a good idea. (Ten Surprising Reasons to Drink Water)

Are You Dehydrated?

Did you know that dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization for people over 65?

Why do people lack hydration? This may be due to several things such as a poor thirst mechanism as we age, dissatisfaction with the taste of water, the over consumption of caffeine and alcohol, climate controlled environments (both heated and air conditioned), and even excessive exercise. With water loss at 2% of body weight, individuals experience impaired physiological and mental performance.

The good news is that double blind placebo studies clearly demonstrate that the Silica Hydride in MegaHydrate dramatically increases total body water in just four weeks!

Know the Symptoms of Dehydration

The signs and symptoms of dehydration range from minor to severe.

• Increased thirst
• Dry sticky mouth and swollen tongue
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Palpitations (feeling that the heart is jumping or pounding)
• Confusion – especially in the elderly
• Sluggishness, even fainting
• Sleepiness or tiredness — children are likely to be less active than usual
• Few or no tears when crying
• Inability to sweat
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Decreased urine output: Urine color may indicate dehydration. If urine is concentrated and deeply yellow or amber, you may be dehydrated.

What is MegaHydrate = Silica Hydride

MegaHydrate is a food grade dietary supplement that is rich in antioxidants. MegaHydrate is safe, and has been tested and shown to have no known side effects. Many individuals that use MegaHydrate experience significant increases in hydration at the cellular level as confirmed by laboratory testing. MegaHydrate delivers billions of negatively-charged Hydrogen ions to the cells of the body by simply taking it with water.

MegaHydrate contains the active ingredient Silica Hydride, a compound known to positively affect the “zeta potential” of blood cells. Zeta potential (x) is the electric potential, or charge, that exists in a hydrated particle and the surrounding solution. Zeta potential is an important and useful indicator that this charge can be used to predict and control the stability of colloidal suspensions. The greater the zeta potential, the more likely the suspension will be stable because the charged particles repel one another and thus overcome the natural tendency to aggregate. Zeta potential is an electrical charge that describes how far apart cells are. Greater zeta potential indicates more space between cells. Increased zeta potential has many positive health benefits. More zeta potential means more surface area for cells. Toxins, viral matter, fungi, and bacteria trapped between cells can be expunged more readily. More importantly, water enters cells more easily. Water is arguably the most vital component of anti-aging, life extension, and the removal of free radicals and waste.

MegaHydrate = Powerful Antioxidant

Scientific evidence proves that MegaHydrate is hundreds of times more powerful as an antioxidant than either Green Tea Extract or Grape Seed Extract and the more recognized plant-based antioxidant sources such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C. More importantly, because MegaHydrate is so pure, you get far more Hydrogen ions from a daily supplement of MegaHydrate than from eating pounds of raw fruits and vegetables.

One daily dose of MegaHydrate has more antioxidant power than hundreds of glasses of fresh vegetable and fruit juices, broccoli, brussel sprouts, leafy greens, and other foods rich in antioxidants to prevent free radical damage.

MegaHydrate provides natural pain relief from headaches, sore muscles, and inflammation of the joints. Studies show that MegaHydrate increases energy production (adenosine triphosphate or ATP) by up to 4 times. People with fibromyalgia and other conditions associated with energy production and hydration usually find substantial pain relief.

MegaHydrate = Anti-Aging

Humans must have Hydrogen to survive. It is the key to long life and anti-aging. However, due to mass food production, mineral deficient soil, pesticides, chemical fertilizers, over-processing of foods, chemical preservatives, and drinking over-chlorinated and over-fluoridated water, people do not get enough Hydrogen ions daily. Body cells become damaged, hydration levels decrease and cells age. In summary, MegaHydrate challenges the symptoms of dehydration and minimizes the process of aging. Many people also report increases in energy.

MegaHydrate also is the key that unlocks the potential of water as the medium for nutrient replenishment and waste removal at the cellular level.

I have many people who ask me about what anti-aging strategies they can use and MegaHydrate is one of the first products that I recommend.  When one is sufficiently hydrated the skin looks younger, wrinkles are not as pronounced and one has boundless energy – all of these are very noticeable anti-aging properties from just the simple task of keeping your body hydrated!   

“You are not sick, you are thirsty. Don’t treat thirst with medication.” Dr. F. Batmaghelidj, MD and author of Your Body’s Many Cries for Water.

More MegaHydrate Information

1. Journal of Medicinal Food – Volume 5, Issue Number 1, 2002. Antioxidant Capability and Efficacy of Mega-H Silica Hydride, an Antioxidant Dietary Supplement, by In Vitro Cellular Analysis Using Photosensitization and Fluorescence Detection. (click to download)

2. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy – Volume 28, Issue 11, 2003. Synthesis of a Novel Anionic Hydride Organosiloxane Presenting Biochemical Properties. (click to download)

3. International Journal of Hydrogen Energy – Volume 29, Issue 5, 2004. Non-toxic Hydride Energy Source for Biochemical and Industrial venues: ORP and NAD+ reduction analyses. (click to download)

4. Journal of Medicinal Food- Volume 6, Issue Number 3, 2003. Evaluation of Hydroxyl Radical-Scavenging Abilities of Silica Hydride, an Antioxidant Compound, by a Fe+2-EDTA Induced 2-hydroxyterephthalate Fluorometric Analysis. (click to download)

5. Free Radical Biology and Medicine – Volume 35, Issue 9, 2003. Antioxidant capacity of silica hydride: a combinatorial photosensitization and fluorescence detection assay. (click to download)

6. http://mcyoung.com/zynergy.pdf

In 1934, Whipple, Murphy, and Minot shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their life saving discovery found in liver.  The disorder was referred to as “pernicious anemia” because before this discovery, death was inevitable.  In 1948, the substance in the liver was isolated and named cobalamin (vitamin B12).

B12 deficiency is more common than we hear about and reported to affect 25% of the U.S. population.  It strikes up to 15% (5.9 million) older adults > age 64.  The CDC now reports that one out of every 31 Americans above the age of 50 are B12 deficient.  It’s interesting to know that this report underestimates the incidence by using a cut-off range far too low.  The incidence of B12 deficiency in infants and children is unknown, which is very concerning.

Causes of B12 Deficiency

• Decreased stomach acid
• Atrophic gastritis
• Autoimmune pernicious anemia
• Helicobacter pylori
• Gastrectomy, intestinal resection
• Gastric bypass surgery
• Malabsorption syndromes
• Crohn’s disease
• Celiac disease (gluten enteropathy)
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Bacterial overgrowth (small bowel)
• Fish tapeworm
• Alcoholism
• Malnutrition—Eating disorders
• Vegetarianism
• Advanced liver disease
• Transcobalamin II deficiency
• Inborn errors of B12 metabolism
• Certain drugs
• Nitrous oxide

Signs and Symptoms of B12 Deficiency

Neurologic signs and symptoms:

• Numbness—tingling
• Weakness of legs, arms, trunk
• Impaired vibration—position sense
• Abnormal reflexes
• Unsteady or abnormal gait
• Balance problems
• Difficulty ambulating
• Dizziness
• Tremor
• Restless legs
• Visual disturbances
• Forgetfulness, memory loss
• Dementia
• Impotence
• Urinary or fecal incontinence

Psychiatric symptoms:

• Depression   
• Irritability
• Paranoia
• Mania
• Hallucinations
• Psychosis
• Violent behavior
• Personality changes

Hematologic signs and symptoms:

• Anemia
• Macrocytosis (enlarged red-blood cells)
• Generalized weakness
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pallor

Signs & symptoms in infants and children:

• Developmental delay or regression
• Apathy—Irritability
• Hypotonia
• Weakness
• Tremor
• Involuntary movements
• Seizures        
• Ataxia
• Anorexia
• Failure to thrive
• Poor weight gain
• Poor head growth
• Poor socialization
• Poor motor skills
• Language delay
• Speech problems
• Lower IQ—Mental retardation
• Anemia
• Macrocytosis

Disorders with Possible Underlying B12 Deficiency

• Dementia—Alzheimer’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Depression
• Post-partum depression/psychosis
• Bipolar disorder
• Neuropathy (diabetic, CIDP)
• Vertigo
• Anemia
• Congestive heart failure
• Autism
• AIDS dementia complex
• Restless leg syndrome
• Radiculopathy, chronic pain disorder
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic renal failure (hemodialysis patients)
• Essential tremor—Parkinson’s disease
• Erectile dysfunction
• Infertility

Diagnostic Tests for B12 Deficiency

• Serum B12
• Methylmalonic acid
• Homocysteine

Are You B12 Deficient? Cobalamin Deficiency Criteria List (CDCL)

Read through the sections below to add up your score and determine your risk of B12 deficiency.

I. Neurologic Manifestations (score 2 for each symptom)

• Numbness/tingling (including diagnosis of neuropathy)
• Weakness of arms, legs, or trunk
• Impaired vibration/position sense
• Abnormal reflexes
• Unsteady or abnormal gait
• Balance problems
• Difficulty ambulating
• Dizziness
• Tremor (including diagnosis of Parkinson’s)
• Restless legs or diagnosis of restless leg syndrome
• Visual disturbances
• Forgetfulness/memory loss (including diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s)
• Mental status changes
• Impotence/erectile dysfunction
• Urinary/fecal incontinence
• Developmental delay in infants & children (including diagnosis on the autism spectrum)

II. Psychiatric Manifestations (score 2 for each symptom)

• Depression/suicidal ideations, post-partum depression or prescribed antidepressant/psychiatric medications
• Irritability/anxiety
• Paranoia
• Mania
• Hallucinations
• Psychosis
• Violent behavior
• Personality changes

III. Gastrointestinal Risks (score 2 for each symptom)

• Decreased stomach acid or atrophic gastritis
• Autoimmune pernicious anemia
• Helicobacter pylori
• GERD or ulcer disease
• Gastrectomy or intestinal resection
• Gastric bypass surgery
• Malabsorption syndromes
• Crohn’s disease
• Celiac disease (gluten enteropathy)
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Bacterial overgrowth (small bowel)
• Fish tapeworm
• Alcoholism
• Malnutrition/eating disorders
• Advanced liver disease
• Transcobalamin II deficiency

IV.Hematologic Manifestations (score 2 for each symptom)

• Anemia
• Macrocytosis
• Microcytosis
• Hypersegmented neutrophils
• Anisocytosis
• Leukopenia
• Thrombocytopenia

V. Other Signs and Symptoms (score 1 for each symptom)

• Generalized weakness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath, exertional dyspnea, or chest pain
• Pallor
• Hepatomegaly or splenomegaly
• Loss of appetite/weight loss
• Poor wound healing/decubitus ulcer
• Cervical dysplasia
• Tinnitus
• Vitiligo
• Glossitis

VI. Population at Risk (score 1 for each symptom)

• Age 60 and over
• Fall or fall-related injury in the past year
• Vegan/vegetarian/macrobiotic diet
• Autoimmune and/or thyroid disorders
• Family history of pernicious anemia
• Proton pump inhibitor use
• Metformin use
• Nitrous oxide administration or abuse
• Cancer patients
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Occlusive vascular disorders (MI, CVA, DVT, PE)
• Pregnancy
• Breast-feeding
• Iron deficiency
• Infertility
• Seizures
• AIDS patients
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Chronic renal failure (hemodialysis patients)
• Neck or back surgery

Cobalamin Deficiency Risk (CDR) Score

• Low Risk:                    0 – 1
• Moderate Risk:           2 – 5
• High Risk:                   > 6

B12 Deficiency – Frequently Misdiagnosed 

• Most doctors and health care providers don’t know the facts about B12 deficiency. 
• Most patients who have B12 deficiency symptoms or are at risk for B12 deficiency never get tested. 
• The current standard for “normal” serum B12 levels is actually far too low. 
• Doctors frequently don’t diagnose B12 deficiency until the patient has enlarged red blood cells and/or macrocytic anemia—which are often late signs of advanced B12 deficiency. 
• People over 65 are frequently misdiagnosed because doctors blame their B12 deficiency symptoms on preexisting diseases and comorbid conditions (A comorbid condition refers to one or more diseases or conditions that occur together with the primary condition.) 
• The current Daily Required Intake (DRI) and Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for B12 health for adults, during pregnancy, and during child growth and development are grossly outdated and insufficient. 

B12 screening should always be included for:

• Older adults who fall or are at risk for falling. 
• Older adults who have cognitive changes or dementia. 
• Patients presenting depression or mental illness. 
• Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Methylcobalamin – Most Absorbable Form of B-12

The most absorbable form of B-12 is in the form of methylcobalamin. Evidence indicates methylcobalamin has some metabolic and therapeutic applications not shared by the other forms of vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12 that acts as a co-factor for methionine synthase in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, thus lowering blood levels of homocysteine.

B-12 works best in a comprehensive formula with other B Vitamins. They have a greater synergistic effect together than individually. This is why I recommend and personally use which was created to bypass the digestive tract, providing an infusion of B vitamins directly into the bloodstream. Methylcobalamin B-12 Select nutritionally supports a healthy nervous system and cardiovascular performance.

I also recommend reading the book Could it Be B12? An Epidemic of Misdiagnoses (Second Edition) by Sally M. Pacholok, R.N., B.S.N., and Jeffrey J. Stuart, D.O.

References
(most information compiled from http://b12awareness.org/)

1. Pray about everything.
2. Talk less; Listen more.
3. Go to bed before 10:30 p.m. Sleep in a cool dark room.
4. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
5. During your morning shower/bath think of at least five blessings in your life.
6. Learn to politely say “No,” to projects/activities that do not fit into your time schedule.
7. Learn to delegate tasks to others.
8. Simplify and un-clutter your life.  Keep your home, car and your office organized.
9. Less is often more.
10. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.  Constantly being late is fertile ground for stress.
11. Respect other people’s time just as you want them to respect yours.  If you are held up in traffic then call ahead and/or be willing to re-schedule the meeting, appointment, etc.
12. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don’t lump the difficult things all together.  Don’t procrastinate.
13. Take one day at a time.  Learn to live in the “now”.
14. Separate worry from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you to do and let go of the anxiety. Remember that there are always solutions and answers to every situation and concern. Worry will rob you of your joy.
15. Live within your budget and means.  Save some money from every paycheck, even if it is only $5.
16. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, extra sunglasses, extra garage door opener, etc.
17. K. M. S. (Keep Mouth Shut!) This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble and stress. Practice it regularly.
18. Do something for the child in you everyday.
19. Carry an inspirational book with you to read while waiting in line or waiting for an appointment.
20. Get daily exercise and sunshine. A daily walk in the sunshine is not only healthy but will help to minimize life’s stressors.
21. Eat healthy at every meal and pass on the fast food and sugary drinks/snacks.
22. Organize your desk/work area so that everything has its place.
23. Listen to a self-help or inspirational CD while driving that can help improve your quality of life.
24. Write thoughts and inspirations down. Keep a Blessings List or Notebook and add to it every evening before bed.
25. Every day take 20 minutes to be alone. Practice deep breathing exercises, take a hot bath, read, meditate, pray, sip a cup of herbal tea, listen to soothing music or just close your eyes and relax. Set up a comfy chair with a nice throw/blanket in your bedroom or den. Include a side table to hold a lamp, books, IPOD, CD player, etc.  Let your family know that when you are in that chair, you are unavailable unless someone or something is on fire!
26. When concerns arise, talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small concerns in the bud. Don’t wait until its time to go to bed to pray – most of us are too tired.
27. Cherish your friends and acknowledge their special days (birthday, anniversary, etc.)
28. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures and sayings on hand.
29. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good “Thank you God!”
30. Flash a big smile at two people (that you don’t know) everyday…just for fun! 
31. Remember to laugh!
32. Learn to control your temper.  Harsh words said in anger can never be taken back.  They have a negative effect on every cell of the body and actually bring the immune system down.
33. Take your work seriously, but yourself not at all.  Don’t be too hard on yourself.
34. Develop a forgiving attitude and spirit (most people are doing the best they can). We all make mistakes. Practice forgiveness and soon it will become habit!
35. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
36. Sit on your ego. Don’t talk about yourself and your accomplishments all the time. 
37. Slow down and enjoy each moment.  Make a practice of being aware of all that is going on around you—flowers, refreshing rain, dew drops on trees, deep colors of nature, cool breeze, the aroma of cookies in the oven, etc.
38. Take an organic multi-vitamin/mineral supplement every day. Include a natural sourced B-Complex to help your body manage stress. It’s a proven fact that vitamins and minerals can help with stress.
39. Eliminate EMF (electromagnetic fields) stress by using EMF protection. Research now links long term exposure to manmade EMFs with chronic health issues — from stress and fatigue to cancer.
40. Be positive!  Look for the good in every event and situation that comes your way.
41. Be teachable and desire to learn. Know-it-alls are tiresome to the spirit and often avoided by others.
42. Eliminate negative TV and movies. 
43. Decide to do more reading, listening to good music, outdoor activities, family night game playing, crafting, evenings with good friends, etc.
44. Invest in family relationships. Give your spouse and children your undivided attention, support and love. Tell them you love them every day!
45. Remember that you are not the general manager of the universe.

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