With New Year's Day right around the corner, a lot of our clients are talking about losing weight, reducing stress, and addressing other health concerns as part of their New Year's Resolutions. We have a few clients who smoke, and we've been asked about using electronic cigarettes in order to quit smoking.
I will first admit that it wasn't a topic I was very familiar with, so I decided to do some research before I answered. And I was really surprised at what I found.
There ARE testimonials of people who have quit smoking, or greatly reduced their smoking habit, and who credit this to their use of electronic cigarettes. However, it seems that the idea has many opponents as well, and their voices are surprisingly strident. But rather than get into a long philosophical discussion about the FDA's standpoint, or that of various health and anti-cancer organizations, I'll just get to the essence of what I learned.
I've been curious about the devices since I first saw them advertised, and wondered about their implications for health. Most electronic cigarettes use heat to vaporize a solution of nicotine, flavorings, and propylene glycol or glycerine into a water vapor which is then inhaled. The vapor delivers the nicotine to the user, along with the flavor.
Almost all of the substances believed to cause cancer from burning traditional tobacco cigarettes are not present, and the others are present in comparatively minute amounts. For the smoker's gratification, nicotine is still delivered, and the action of smoking (involving the hands, mouth) is still satisfied. For these reasons, many argue that electronic cigarettes are a safer alternative.
However, the substances that are inhaled have not been extensively tested, and vary from brand to brand. Most of our clients will recognize propylene glycol to be of special concern. We try to offer products free of propylene glycol even for topical use. The vapor from electronic cigarettes is meant to be taken into the body via the lungs, making it that much more dangerous than shampoo, for example.
I would also add the subject of exposure to second-hand smoke as a factor to consider. Most non-smokers would prefer not to be exposed to second-hand smoke on principle, and there are many of us who are concerned about the health risks associated with exposure.
Whether or not the devices are actually helpful in stopping smoking is not something I can comment on. Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest they may be helpful. Legally they cannot be sold or promoted for this purpose in the US, since they have not been tested as such.
Even so, if a client comes to me and has tried other methods and yet failed, and asks me if they should try electronic cigarettes, what would I tell them? In conscience, I could not tell them NOT to try it, since it might indeed help. If the client can successfully quit smoking, their health would benefit so much that it would be unethical for me to advise them against trying it at all.
One of the major issues I see with these products that does concern me is the potential to entice non-smokers to try it, if they get the idea that it is relatively safe. Nicotine is still a drug, and a very addictive one. Also the flavors available might be something that make it more appealing to younger people, which pretty much takes us back to the now-banned commercials of rugged cowboys and sensual models designed to romanticize smoking in the first place.
For now I am holding a neutral position on the devices. There may be situations where they may be helpful, and there may be other situations where they may be harmful. I think it is important to weigh potential risks and benefits, and make decisions on a case by case basis.
Incidentally, our preferred method of quitting smoking is to take a high-strength liquid lobelia extract, which tends to make smoking unappealing and benefits the lungs, and marshmallow herb capsules which also help to expel build-up from smoking from the lungs. These must be paired with a desire to quit smoking. For motivated clients, this combination has been proven very effective.
Written by Trish A.
December 22, 2011
December 21, 2011
Interesting Ways To Take Care Of Your Teeth
If you're tired of the same-old same-old when it comes to taking care of your teeth, try spicing up your dental routine a little bit. Here are some weird, wonderful and downright wacky dental products that can put a little extra fun in your oral hygiene routine.
Flavored dental floss: Tired of mint and cinnamon? Then how about putting some new flavors on the floss menu? Try pickle, ranch, bacon, or cupcake frosting flavored floss instead! Tired of having salad stuck in your teeth? Use salad-flavored floss instead! Maybe you don't have time for breakfast in the morning, or perhaps you're just watching your weight? If so, try the breakfast flavored floss combo. It includes coffee, waffles and bacon to start your morning out right. If you want to take a walk on the wild side, then you won't want to pass up the absinthe floss. Check out the whole flavored floss collection at Archie McPhee (http://www.mcphee.com) and perk up your routine.
Flavored toothpaste: Toothpaste doesn't have to come in boring flavors either. You'll find some excellent alternative toothpaste flavors at Archie McPhee. Bacon flavored toothpaste could await you every morning. (Who doesn't like bacon?) Don't forget to check out the pickle and cupcake flavored toothpastes, too. They make great gifts, or keep them for yourself and enjoy the ride! Having trouble getting someone in your house interested in the dental hygienist program? Try ice cream flavored toothpaste. For the truly adventurous: pine flavored toothpaste. Yup.
Tooth Tunes: This one may not appeal to everyone, but for kids and pre-teens, Tooth Tunes is where it's at. This toothbrush plays music for two minutes – the recommended time for brushing. As long as the music is playing, the brusher should be brushing. Tooth Tunes toothbrushes come loaded with clips from more than two dozen pop music artists. The music isn't readily audible by anyone other than the brusher, and is triggered by pressure on the brush head. Tooth Tunes are distributed by Hasbro/Tiger Electronics and are available at most general merchandise stores. A single toothbrush – batteries included - will set you back about $10.
Brushing Timers: Not interested in listening to the music in your head while you brush? Then try a toothbrush timer. Whether it's a mechanical timer or a simple sand timer, these devices can help ensure that you're spending enough quality time with your toothbrush. You can find toothbrush timers online and in stores. They're great tools for teaching kids to brush, but they only measure time spent, not good brushing techniques.
Electric and Ultrasonic Toothbrushes: They've been around forever but there are a whole new line of electric toothbrushes that can help you keep your teeth clean. Spinning brush heads promise to clean up your teeth better and faster than manual toothbrushes do. If you want to get really tooth-techy, take your brushing to a whole new level and try an ultrasonic toothbrush. These gadgets will set you back seriously but promise to deliver a better time at the dentist than a manual toothbrush does. You can get a sonic setup for the whole family, too.
Flavored mouthwashes: With all this fun you're having brushing and flossing, you need a fun mouthwash to complete the picture, right? Well, you're not in nearly as much luck as you are with brushing and flossing. Aside from the standard vanilla mint, regular mint, spearmint, ultra mint, peppermint, orange, and grape flavored mouthwashes (and don't forget regular Listerine), you're not going to have much luck here. Why? To be truly effective, mouthwashes need to be tough enough to stand up to heavy hitters like garlic. One of the best (and only) contenders in this category? You guessed it: mint!
Flavored dental floss: Tired of mint and cinnamon? Then how about putting some new flavors on the floss menu? Try pickle, ranch, bacon, or cupcake frosting flavored floss instead! Tired of having salad stuck in your teeth? Use salad-flavored floss instead! Maybe you don't have time for breakfast in the morning, or perhaps you're just watching your weight? If so, try the breakfast flavored floss combo. It includes coffee, waffles and bacon to start your morning out right. If you want to take a walk on the wild side, then you won't want to pass up the absinthe floss. Check out the whole flavored floss collection at Archie McPhee (http://www.mcphee.com) and perk up your routine.
Flavored toothpaste: Toothpaste doesn't have to come in boring flavors either. You'll find some excellent alternative toothpaste flavors at Archie McPhee. Bacon flavored toothpaste could await you every morning. (Who doesn't like bacon?) Don't forget to check out the pickle and cupcake flavored toothpastes, too. They make great gifts, or keep them for yourself and enjoy the ride! Having trouble getting someone in your house interested in the dental hygienist program? Try ice cream flavored toothpaste. For the truly adventurous: pine flavored toothpaste. Yup.
Tooth Tunes: This one may not appeal to everyone, but for kids and pre-teens, Tooth Tunes is where it's at. This toothbrush plays music for two minutes – the recommended time for brushing. As long as the music is playing, the brusher should be brushing. Tooth Tunes toothbrushes come loaded with clips from more than two dozen pop music artists. The music isn't readily audible by anyone other than the brusher, and is triggered by pressure on the brush head. Tooth Tunes are distributed by Hasbro/Tiger Electronics and are available at most general merchandise stores. A single toothbrush – batteries included - will set you back about $10.
Brushing Timers: Not interested in listening to the music in your head while you brush? Then try a toothbrush timer. Whether it's a mechanical timer or a simple sand timer, these devices can help ensure that you're spending enough quality time with your toothbrush. You can find toothbrush timers online and in stores. They're great tools for teaching kids to brush, but they only measure time spent, not good brushing techniques.
Electric and Ultrasonic Toothbrushes: They've been around forever but there are a whole new line of electric toothbrushes that can help you keep your teeth clean. Spinning brush heads promise to clean up your teeth better and faster than manual toothbrushes do. If you want to get really tooth-techy, take your brushing to a whole new level and try an ultrasonic toothbrush. These gadgets will set you back seriously but promise to deliver a better time at the dentist than a manual toothbrush does. You can get a sonic setup for the whole family, too.
Flavored mouthwashes: With all this fun you're having brushing and flossing, you need a fun mouthwash to complete the picture, right? Well, you're not in nearly as much luck as you are with brushing and flossing. Aside from the standard vanilla mint, regular mint, spearmint, ultra mint, peppermint, orange, and grape flavored mouthwashes (and don't forget regular Listerine), you're not going to have much luck here. Why? To be truly effective, mouthwashes need to be tough enough to stand up to heavy hitters like garlic. One of the best (and only) contenders in this category? You guessed it: mint!
December 19, 2011
Fighting the holiday blues
Our intention is not to spread gloom on anyone’s holiday, but a more realistic approach can suggest effective coping strategies. First, remember that time spent with family is more important than the cost of the gift. Holiday meals don’t have to be gourmet affairs. Meaningful discussion, inviting others, and something as simple as a few candles on the table can make dinners special. Don’t over-extend yourself – it’s ok to say no if you don’t have time for something. Take time out to relax. Refreshing yourself can make you more productive the rest of the time. If you can’t be with loved ones, or if you’ve had a death in the family, realize that it is normal to feel sad. Not every holiday is or has to be perfect – don’t put that expectation on yourself. Remember that helping others can be the best lift you can give to yourself.
Even if your holiday is wonderful, be aware of others around you. Invite a lonely neighbor or co-worker for dinner and cookies. Be especially aware of those who may have lost a loved one recently, or near the holidays. Those who have been recently divorced may be especially lonely and depressed. Anyone who has been admitted to a drug abuse rehab center in the past may be at risk for falling back into drinking or drugs. Don’t expect anyone to be happy or cheerful just because it’s the holiday season. Instead, give them the opportunity to talk in case the holidays are proving especially difficult for them, and encourage others to seek help if necessary.
Written by Trish A.
December 18, 2011
Should you throw away your Neti pot?
News of a tragic death in Louisiana makes this a good time to talk about the proper use of Neti pots, which are used for nasal irrigation. These have long been a popular, and effective, means of cleansing among our clients, providing many health benefits.
However, users should be aware that pouring water through the nostrils places the water in contact with membranes that provide less of a barrier to infection. The infection that led to death in Louisiana was the result of an amoeba, Naegleria fowleri. E xposure to Naegleria can lead to primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which is almost always fatal. This is the second death in Louisiana this year from the same cause.
A few precautions can prevent infection. While many sources recommend warm tap water to make the flushing solution, we have always suggested using distilled water in the Neti pot. It would also be acceptable to use tap water that has been boiled. The Neti pot should always be carefully washed to prevent other infections as well, especially if the user has a cold or influenza.
Incidentally, it is important to use a safe source of saline as well. Makers of Neti pots offer safe commercial products. If you wish to make your own solution, you can use a non-iodized salt (sea salts can be problematic as well, unfortunately, depending upon how they were processed), and add a pinch of baking soda.
We are saddened by this tragedy, and hope that all of our readers and clients will be careful to use their Neti pots safely.
Written by Trish A.
However, users should be aware that pouring water through the nostrils places the water in contact with membranes that provide less of a barrier to infection. The infection that led to death in Louisiana was the result of an amoeba, Naegleria fowleri. E xposure to Naegleria can lead to primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which is almost always fatal. This is the second death in Louisiana this year from the same cause.
A few precautions can prevent infection. While many sources recommend warm tap water to make the flushing solution, we have always suggested using distilled water in the Neti pot. It would also be acceptable to use tap water that has been boiled. The Neti pot should always be carefully washed to prevent other infections as well, especially if the user has a cold or influenza.
Incidentally, it is important to use a safe source of saline as well. Makers of Neti pots offer safe commercial products. If you wish to make your own solution, you can use a non-iodized salt (sea salts can be problematic as well, unfortunately, depending upon how they were processed), and add a pinch of baking soda.
We are saddened by this tragedy, and hope that all of our readers and clients will be careful to use their Neti pots safely.
Written by Trish A.
December 15, 2011
Decorating
Guest post written by Kevin Beach
As I was scanning through my options for programming offered through direct tv deals southgate, I always find myself during this time of year stopping for periods of time to watch how designers transform homes into magical showplaces for the holidays. With the simple addition of a few holiday touches, any home can sparkle and shine. Last week on HGTV, a designer attached a plain, green wreath to a kitchen chandelier. She attached the wreath to the light fixture with three strands of beautiful silver ribbon. From the bottom of the wreath hung a handful of simple silver Christmas ornaments suspended with fishing line. The ornaments seemed to be floating magically from the wreath. It was a beautiful, yet simple idea that transformed a rather ordinary space into a place inviting for any holiday feast. What I was even more impressed with was the ease of this project. Sometimes designers on these shows make these do-it-yourself projects seem so effortless, but for the amateur, these projects never translate into such easy tasks. This project, however, required minimal skill, and could be done in a matter of minutes.
As I was scanning through my options for programming offered through direct tv deals southgate, I always find myself during this time of year stopping for periods of time to watch how designers transform homes into magical showplaces for the holidays. With the simple addition of a few holiday touches, any home can sparkle and shine. Last week on HGTV, a designer attached a plain, green wreath to a kitchen chandelier. She attached the wreath to the light fixture with three strands of beautiful silver ribbon. From the bottom of the wreath hung a handful of simple silver Christmas ornaments suspended with fishing line. The ornaments seemed to be floating magically from the wreath. It was a beautiful, yet simple idea that transformed a rather ordinary space into a place inviting for any holiday feast. What I was even more impressed with was the ease of this project. Sometimes designers on these shows make these do-it-yourself projects seem so effortless, but for the amateur, these projects never translate into such easy tasks. This project, however, required minimal skill, and could be done in a matter of minutes.
December 08, 2011
Indoor Air Quality -- Mold
One of the major factors to consider in indoor air quality is the presence of mold. There are a number of potential health risks associated with mold exposure, including asthma and allergies as well as more serious concerns. Mold cannot be completely wiped out – there will always be some mold spores present. The problem comes when the mold finds an environment in which it can grow.
Anytime there is excess water, whether from flooding, a burst pipe or other plumbing issues, or any other cause, the homeowner should act quickly. If the water has not penetrated beyond the surface, it may be possible to sufficiently dry the area yourself. However, if you have any doubt about lingering moisture that you cannot clean up yourself (like water that has penetrated carpets, or soaked into wood), it may be safer to hire professional water damage cleaners. Austin based cleaning and restoration company, The Steam Team (http://www.thesteamteam.com), explains that higher levels of moisture in the air can cause damage to absorbent surfaces even in unaffected areas of the home. Mold and mildew can grow on books, papers, walls, ceiling tiles and other surfaces and compromise the air quality as well as damaging your property, so it is important to act quickly.
If mold and mildew begin to spread, especially in hidden areas, it can be much more difficult to combat later.
Flood damage, moist areas, plumbing leaks, or improper ventilation are all possible causes of mold growth, and any of these warrant careful inspection of all surrounding areas. Mold can affect walls, wood, ceilings, air ducts, clothing, furniture, carpets, books, papers, and many others. Simply painting over the surface will not necessarily prevent further mold. Mold can continue to grow under the paint if it is not properly cleaned.
We’ll continue our next indoor air quality post with alternative cleaning supplies …
Written by Trish A.
Anytime there is excess water, whether from flooding, a burst pipe or other plumbing issues, or any other cause, the homeowner should act quickly. If the water has not penetrated beyond the surface, it may be possible to sufficiently dry the area yourself. However, if you have any doubt about lingering moisture that you cannot clean up yourself (like water that has penetrated carpets, or soaked into wood), it may be safer to hire professional water damage cleaners. Austin based cleaning and restoration company, The Steam Team (http://www.thesteamteam.com), explains that higher levels of moisture in the air can cause damage to absorbent surfaces even in unaffected areas of the home. Mold and mildew can grow on books, papers, walls, ceiling tiles and other surfaces and compromise the air quality as well as damaging your property, so it is important to act quickly.
If mold and mildew begin to spread, especially in hidden areas, it can be much more difficult to combat later.
Flood damage, moist areas, plumbing leaks, or improper ventilation are all possible causes of mold growth, and any of these warrant careful inspection of all surrounding areas. Mold can affect walls, wood, ceilings, air ducts, clothing, furniture, carpets, books, papers, and many others. Simply painting over the surface will not necessarily prevent further mold. Mold can continue to grow under the paint if it is not properly cleaned.
We’ll continue our next indoor air quality post with alternative cleaning supplies …
Written by Trish A.
December 06, 2011
Dressing for clients' comfort?
Today we would like to share some of our experiences as natural health care providers in the hopes that it might benefit others who provide services similar to ours.
In addition to client consulting and providing dietary supplements, we have offered a number of alternative therapies. We usually wear casual office clothing during consults and in the store area while assisting customers with their choice of supplements and other products. Dressed in regular clothing, the public sees us as friendly and providing personalized help, and as being more caring.
However, we have found that most of our clients are more comfortable in a therapeutic setting when the staff is dressed in medical scrubs or white lab coats. For some, therapy becomes almost invasive if it is carried out on a too-personal level, and they are able to relate better to a more professional appearance. The scrubs and lab coats also seem to help inspire confidence in their care providers. Because of this, we have made it a practice for those who provide therapies to dress in them.
Image courtesy of http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/
Another feature that is important to assuring the comfort of clients is making them feel that their privacy is always being respected. Some clients are uncomfortable discussing personal health issues on the open floor of the store area, so we make it a practice to guide them to a private consulting room. If possible, it can also be helpful to have both male and female consultants on hand for those situations where clients may need to discuss sensitive personal details.
We have found that respecting clients’ comfort issues goes a long way toward reassuring them when they may be dealing with health issues. When they are comfortable, clients share more information, which helps us provide better service. And when they feel reassured, they are much more likely to follow through with the course we suggest. When their condition improves as a result, we have just cemented a new relationship with a satisfied client, and increased our reputation at the same time.
In addition to client consulting and providing dietary supplements, we have offered a number of alternative therapies. We usually wear casual office clothing during consults and in the store area while assisting customers with their choice of supplements and other products. Dressed in regular clothing, the public sees us as friendly and providing personalized help, and as being more caring.
Image courtesy of http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/
Another feature that is important to assuring the comfort of clients is making them feel that their privacy is always being respected. Some clients are uncomfortable discussing personal health issues on the open floor of the store area, so we make it a practice to guide them to a private consulting room. If possible, it can also be helpful to have both male and female consultants on hand for those situations where clients may need to discuss sensitive personal details.
We have found that respecting clients’ comfort issues goes a long way toward reassuring them when they may be dealing with health issues. When they are comfortable, clients share more information, which helps us provide better service. And when they feel reassured, they are much more likely to follow through with the course we suggest. When their condition improves as a result, we have just cemented a new relationship with a satisfied client, and increased our reputation at the same time.
December 02, 2011
Natural Supplements for Pet Health
In many instances, using herbal supplements intended for humans can be safe and effective for pets as well. Of course, you should check with your veterinarian or a qualified natural health practitioner to be sure, as some herbs, essential oils, etc. that are safe for humans can also be toxic for pets. Cats especially are sensitive to essential oils, which we often don’t consider a possible danger, since they are usually not ingested.
Sometimes they can be significant money savers, and even life saving as well. My almost 2-year old German Shepherd dog recently started showing signs of malnutrition in spite of being well-fed. As it turns out, his pancreas is now failing to produce digestive enzymes and he was starting to literally starve to death, no matter how much food he ate. There is a veterinary product available in powdered enzyme form, but the cost is around $200 per bottle for a total cost of around $2,000 per year for a dog his size. As a temporary measure, I gave him a good broad-spectrum human enzyme I had on hand while I looked into other possible treatments. The cost of the human enzymes was around $30 per month, for a total of about $360 per year.
As it turns out, that is not the best treatment for many dogs, though it is standard protocol in the US. In the UK and other countries where it is available, pig pancreas is the treatment of choice, and it seems many dogs respond very well to it. It didn’t take long to discovered that pig pancreas is not available at any price in the US, due to USDA slaughterhouse guidelines. I was able to source some for free from a wildlife butchering service that handles wild hogs, but there would never have been enough available to keep my dog healthy.
So I turned to pancreatin. It is easily purchased from a local health food store, and even MORE effective than the enzymes I was giving him, for just over $10 a bottle. I was able to reduce the dosage since it is so much more effective, and now his treatment cost should be around $15 a month, for an annual total of only $180. At the same time, it seems so far that it will be more effective than either the human or veterinary enzyme preparations. So don’t overlook human supplements, in cases where they may prove both safe and effective, as alternative treatments for your pets either.
Sometimes they can be significant money savers, and even life saving as well. My almost 2-year old German Shepherd dog recently started showing signs of malnutrition in spite of being well-fed. As it turns out, his pancreas is now failing to produce digestive enzymes and he was starting to literally starve to death, no matter how much food he ate. There is a veterinary product available in powdered enzyme form, but the cost is around $200 per bottle for a total cost of around $2,000 per year for a dog his size. As a temporary measure, I gave him a good broad-spectrum human enzyme I had on hand while I looked into other possible treatments. The cost of the human enzymes was around $30 per month, for a total of about $360 per year.
As it turns out, that is not the best treatment for many dogs, though it is standard protocol in the US. In the UK and other countries where it is available, pig pancreas is the treatment of choice, and it seems many dogs respond very well to it. It didn’t take long to discovered that pig pancreas is not available at any price in the US, due to USDA slaughterhouse guidelines. I was able to source some for free from a wildlife butchering service that handles wild hogs, but there would never have been enough available to keep my dog healthy.
So I turned to pancreatin. It is easily purchased from a local health food store, and even MORE effective than the enzymes I was giving him, for just over $10 a bottle. I was able to reduce the dosage since it is so much more effective, and now his treatment cost should be around $15 a month, for an annual total of only $180. At the same time, it seems so far that it will be more effective than either the human or veterinary enzyme preparations. So don’t overlook human supplements, in cases where they may prove both safe and effective, as alternative treatments for your pets either.
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