Before discussing my Menopause/Andropause study, I will furnish you with some important background information that is necessary to thoroughly comprehend the results the study achieved.
Menopause can be defined as the conclusion of the female reproductive phase of life. In most women, the onset of menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 50, but it has been known to occur anywhere from age 40 to 60. In addition, menopause can be provoked at an earlier time due to uterine ovarian surgery, or certain types of illnesses. Menopause is characterized by the decreased functioning of the ovaries, which results in reduced quantities of the hormone estrogen in the body. Not just a discrete event, menopause is actually a process, one that lasts several years, or even a decade.
Although menopause is an experience common to women all around the world, those in Asian countries tend to adapt more easily to the hormonal changes involved, due to their willingness to accept the aging process as a natural transition. In Asian countries, age is associated with wisdom and respect; hence, women in these countries do not dread this stage of life. In the United States and other Western nations, advanced age is feared profoundly by women, due to cultural conditioning. This negative outlook is often correlated with the acquisition of acute menopausal symptoms. Women who are about to experience menopause, or have already, should reexamine their attitudes and try to eliminate any preconceived ideas regarding aging. It should also he noted that acute symptoms are frequently avoided by Asian women because their diets contain ample quantities of soy products, which are high in phytoestrogens and phytoesterols. In addition, Asians benefit from the widespread use of medicinal herbs.
As the information above indicates, menopause has traditionally been defined as a female condition. However, men have a similar condition called andropause – commonly referred to as the male menopause, which is caused by hypogonadism - or low testosterone levels. Strictly speaking, andropause is defined as the "natural cessation of the sexual function in older men.” In lay language, it means the lessening of sexual desire in men because of decreasing hormone levels.
The menopausal process usually begins with variations in the menstrual cycle. The time between cycles often becomes irregular, and sometimes periods are skipped. Although menopause is usually accompanied by reduced menstrual flow, some women report heavy, irregular bleeding. Hot flashes are another common experience, while some women may experience dry skin, irritability vaginal dryness, night sweats, urinary tract infections, mood swings, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It should be kept in mind that some women have no troublesome symptomatology at all. It’s also important to mention that menopause is characterized by diminished estrogen production by the ovaries, and when this occurs, the manufacturing process is transferred to the adrenal glands. Consequently, women with healthy adrenal glands are less susceptible to experiencing acute symptoms.
A common misconception is that women will lose their sex drive once they have experienced menopause. In fact, only a small percentage lose their ability to become aroused, and these cases can be effectively treated. Actually, many women report heightened sexuality because the risk of pregnancy is absent. Another assumption whose time has gone is the belief that, after the change of life, life will no longer be enjoyable. Many women fear that their later years will be characterized by intense psychological problems. This is untrue, as women who have reached 50 years of age are not at any increased risk of clinical depression. Although some women may experience mood swings due to decreased levels of estrogen, serotonin, and endorphins, these levels can effectively be corrected by natural means, and thus, symptomatic mood swings can be eliminated.
The beginning of male menopause typically occurs as men enter into their 40’s. As men reach their 40s, most will begin experiencing physical and emotional changes. The exercise routine that formerly held their body together has become inadequate. Fat has slowly appeared in places where muscle used to be. Sexual activity and interest wane. Oftentimes, men find their enthusiasm for living has decreased along with their sexual desire. Reports indicate that approximately 25 million men in the US between 40 and 55 years of age suffer from andropause. Oftentimes, when men have low levels of testosterone, it has a domino effect on mood, mental skills, memory, and sexual desire.
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for regulating the structure of proteins in the body. It governs the development of the genitals (penis and testicles). The testicles account for about 7-10 mg of the testosterone produced each day. When the testicles do not produce their normal level of testosterone, the body changes. In the cause and effect relationship, the low testosterone levels are the cause and the effect is a man with a body that is falling apart, ravaged by clogged arteries, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, high blood pressure and elevated increased cholesterol.
The medical establishment has traditionally approached menopause as a disease, and, in that paradigm, offered hormone replacement as a “cure.” In reality, menopause is not a disease; it is a natural transitional period that can be coped with using natural techniques. Unfortunately, hormone replacement therapy has become commonplace in our nation in the past few years. Although most doctors insist that replacement therapy involves the use of natural hormones, the fact is that the hormones being used are not manufactured by our own bodies, nor are they derived from natural plant sources, such as soy products or yams. Premarin, a popular hormone replacement product, is obtained from the urine of pregnant horses. Currently, 10 million women are being administered this product in capsules or in patches. Clinical studies have confirmed that the administration of synthetic hormones to patients can increase the risk of breast cancer by up to 33 percent. Furthermore, hormone replacement has been linked to upper body obesity and insulin resistance, a condition commonly associated with low blood sugar levels, elevated blood pressure, and excessive insulin levels.
There are many ways men can combat the ravages of andropause. Eating a well-balanced diet, with an emphasis on organically grown fruits and vegetables is a good way to escape the negative effects of chemicals that negatively impact the endocrine system. Men should supplement their diets with the full gamut of antioxidants. In order to counteract the physical impact of andropause on the body, men should develop a regular exercise routine. Numerous studies have documented that high-intensity exercise helps men keep their testosterone levels elevated. Encouragingly, the exercise program works in both older and younger men.
Fortunately, synthetic hormone replacement can be averted in favor of natural treatments that have no harmful side effects. Studies have shown that plant estrogens, such as those found in soy products, are quite helpful in combating symptoms. And soy products (e.g., tofu, tempeh, soybeans) hamper the proliferation of cancerous cells. Oats, cashews, almonds, alfalfa, apples, and flaxseeds also contain natural sources of estrogen enhancement, although in more modest amounts. Women who incorporate these foods natural estrogen-containing foods into their diets can experience remarkable relief of hot flashes. In addition, sufficient intake of magnesium, found in soy products, whole grains, and beans, is important in curbing hot flashes. Increased dietary intake of fiber and reduced quantities of animal products can limit irritability, while sunflower seeds, walnuts, hazelnuts, cabbage, asparagus, broccoli, oats, and barley can serve as additional combatants of menopausal symptoms.
A multivitamin/mineral supplement that has more magnesium than calcium and adequate quantities of B vitamins and vitamin C can enhance adrenal functioning and alleviate emotional disturbances. Supplements of vitamin E are recommended too. This useful vitamin promotes the production of the brain hormones FSH and LH, which act as vital agents in the prevention of hot flashes. In addition, vitamin E reduces vaginal dryness and thinning. Natural sources of vitamin E, including the various mixed tocopherols, are more efficient than artificial versions. The mineral zinc is useful as well.
Supplements of the vitamin B complex are especially important during the menopausal years and can be extracted naturally from whole grains and green vegetables. Three to four mg of vitamin B5 and 150 mg of B6 should be consumed on a daily basis, while prescriptions of folic acid can serve as natural hormone replacements. Adequate quantities of essential fatty acids should also be consumed because they act as natural hormone supplements, prevent cancer, and can alleviate the symptoms of aging. Essential fatty acids are also crucial in preventing dryness of the vaginal region. People on low-fat diets often suffer from deficiencies of essential fatty acids and, consequently, need to incorporate certain foods into their diets to correct the problem. Omega-6 fatty acids can be obtained from pumpkin, sesame, safflower, and flaxseed oils, while omega-3 fatty acids are sufficiently supplied in diets that contain fish, fish oil capsules, and flaxseed oil.
Vitamin D, which can be supplemented in quantities of 400 to 600 IU per day, is also absorbed directly from sunlight, or extracted from salmon oil. This is an important vitamin for menopausal women, especially those who live in polluted legions. Calcium supplements can prevent or curb osteoporosis and can be particularly beneficial when supplementation is initiated considerably before menopause. While many women have difficulty assimilating dairy products, calcium citrate, amino acid chelate, and calcium carbonate offer alternative sources of calcium that can be easily digested. Regardless of which source you select, remember that the body requires 1300 mg of calcium on a daily basis, and even more if you have difficulty assimilating it. An analysis of an individual’s calcium absorption can be performed prior to supplementation. Gamma linoleic acid, which is available as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil, should be supplemented by menopausal women in quantities of 200 mg per day. Boron is yet another valuable source of both female and male hormones and can be effectively supplemented.
There are several other natural products that can stimulate the production of hormones during the menopausal years. Natural DHEA, commonly obtained from yam extract, can invigorate the body. Progesterone cream or serum guards against fibrocystic conditions and breast cancer, improves the effectiveness of thyroid hormones, and prevents osteoporosis by replacing depleted calcium. Progesterone should be administered three to four weeks out of every month. Wild yam cream, which is an over-the-counter product, and oral progesterone supplements, can provide effective natural hormone replacement. Estriol is a beneficial hormone that has demonstrated its ability to hinder the development of breast tumors in animals and is currently being prescribed as an alternative to synthetic hormones by some gynecologists. Finally, Estrogen, a formula comprised of 80 percent estriol and 20 percent estrone and estradiol, can prevent the onset of breast cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disorders without any harmful side effects.
Certain soy products have high amounts of isoflavones (see Osteoporosis). Isoflavone is a phytoestrogen, also known as a plant estrogen. In the body, plant estrogens perform like a weaker version of estrogen. It is important to note that the key to maximizing the effectiveness of soy products is to consume large amounts of them over a protracted period of time. Taken in this manner affords them the best opportunity to combat osteoporosis and help relieve some of the menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Several studies have documented soy’s effectiveness in significantly reducing the occurrence of hot flushes. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that women who received 60 g of soy protein isolate per day lessened their hot flash episodes by 45%. To re-emphasize the point above, the results of one study showed that there was a significant decrease in the occurrence of hot flushes after a six week period among women who had taken 400 mg of soy extract and 50 mg isoflavone daily.
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Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate) |
25 mg |
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Vitamin B2 (Cyanocobalamin) |
125 mg |
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Pantothenic Acid (D - Calcium Pantothenate) |
75 mg |
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Calcium (Carbonate) |
50 mg |
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Magnesium (Oxide) |
50 mg |
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Ginko Bilboa Leaf |
100 mg |
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L-Phenylalanine |
75 mg |
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L-Glutathione |
25 mg |
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L-Taurine |
50 mg |
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Choline Bitartrate |
75 mg |
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Inositol |
25 mg |
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L-Carnitine |
30 mg |
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L-Cysteine |
50 mg |
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Blue Cohosh Root |
25 mg |
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Rosemary Leaves |
10 mg |
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Siberian Ginseng Root |
10 mg |
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L-Aspartic Acid |
25 mg |
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L-Glutamine |
25 mg |
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L-Tyrosine 1 |
25 mg |
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Linoleic Acid |
25 mg |
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Linolenic Acid |
10 mg |
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Caprylic Acid |
25 mg |
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Glucerophosphorylcholine |
250 mg |
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Phosphatidyl Serine |
200 mg |
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Pregnenolone |
20 mg |
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Benfotiamine |
25 mg |
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Vitamin A |
10,000 IU |
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Vitamin C |
500 mg |
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Vitamin E |
200 IU |
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Vitamin B6 |
10 mg |
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Magnesium |
4 mg |
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Zinc |
15 mg |
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Selenium |
70 mcg |
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Copper |
2 mg |
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Astaxanthin |
25 mg |
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Quercetin |
25 mg |
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L-Carnosine |
100 mg |
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Lycopene |
25 mg |
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Rosemary Leaf Powder (Rosmarinus Officinalis) |
25 mg |
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Tocotrienols |
25 mh |
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Raspberry Leaf Powder |
5 mg |
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Citrus Bioflavonoid |
300 mg |
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Rutin |
25 mg |
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Bilberry Fruit Extract |
25 mg |
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Red Wine Concentrate |
25 mg |
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Grape Skin Extract |
150 mg |
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China Green Tea Leaf Powder |
200 mg |
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Reduced L-Glutathione |
10 mg |
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L-Cysteine |
200 mg |
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Co-Enzyme Q10 |
10 mg |
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N-Acetyl Cysteine |
25 mg |
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Alpha Lipoic Acid |
75 mg |
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Super Oxide Dismutase |
25 mg |
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Taurine |
50 mg |
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Pycnogenol |
3 mg |
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Licorice Root |
25 mg |
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Broccoli Stem |
25 mg |
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Lutein |
25 mg |
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Cabbage Leaf |
25 mg |
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Carrot Root |
25 mg |
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Milk Thistle Leaf |
25 mg |
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Bromelain |
8 mg |
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I cannot overemphasize the interrelatedness of the mind to all aspects of health. One cannot be depressed and healthy. They are mutually exclusive terms. Just as our diet plays a crucial role in good health, it can also negatively impact emotions and exacerbate or bring on an episode of depression. What can be difficult in promoting proper nutrition as we age is the fact that our bodies may become less efficient in absorbing and utilizing key nutrients. Furthermore, someone suffering from depression may have little or no appetite or interest in food. Therefore, it is important that every bit of food you eat has the maximum good impact on your mental health.
The first step in eating a diet brain-healthy diet is to eliminate fast foods, simple carbohydrates, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, white flour products, and caffeine. This change will immediately impact the chemical balances in your brain.
To prevent and combat depression, your diet should contain lots of fruits and vegetables, with soybeans and soy products, brown rice, millet and legumes. A low carbohydrate diet can cause a decrease in serotonin levels and can lead to depression. At all costs, you must avoid foods meat or fried foods such as hamburgers and French fries. These foods are high in saturated fats that block the arteries and small blood vessels, interfering with blood flow. Your blood cells become sticky and clump together, leading to poor cerebral circulation, accompanied by mental sluggishness and fatigue.
Depressed people are attracted to sugar because of the initial lift it provides. Sugar does stimulate serotonin levels, which in turn, temporarily improves your mood. However, this initial surge of energy disappears in a matter of minutes. The reason behind the initial boost is that sugar—regardless of which form you are talking about—does not have to be digested and passes directly into the bloodstream, where it dramatically raises the blood sugar level, and overstimulates the pancreas to produce too much insulin. The excess insulin then causes the sugar level to plummet. Within half-an-hour of consuming a sugary snack, your blood sugar level will drop to very low levels allowing fatigue, irritability and anxiety to creep in. With these feelings present, the person seeks another boost from sugar, resulting in repeating the same, vicious cycle.
In addition to dietary modifications and natural supplements, there are numerous herbs that can enhance a woman’s ability to cope with menopause if she is having problems. First of all, the herb chaste berry, commonly marketed under the name Vitex, can augment the progesterone level in the body and, consequently, eliminate many of the symptoms associated with menopause, including vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and mood swings. Chaste berry can be obtained in capsules, teas, and in dry or liquid extracts. Note that the medicinal capabilities of this herb, which affect the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, can take a considerable amount of time to show up. Usually at least one or two complete cycles are required before the effects become apparent, and six months of use may be needed for sustained improvement.
Herbs that serve as natural sources of phytoestrogens and progesterone include wild yam (used as a progesterone-producing herb to alleviate hot flashes), alfalfa, sarsaparilla, and blessed thistle. To assist with proper functioning of the nervous system, consider skullcap, Motherwort (to relieve vaginal dryness), valerian root (to promote sleep and relieve anxiety), passionflower, ginseng, fresh oat, and blue vervain. Black cohosh is a panacea-type herbal remedy that is used to treat “female problems” like PMS, menstrual cramps, morning sickness and menopausal symptoms. Studies have credited it with helping relieve menopausal symptoms in a high percentage of menopausal women.
Dong quai, one of the most significant Chinese herbs, has proven effective in providing relief from the symptoms of menopause. It should be taken for 8-12 weeks, or three menstrual cycles. At the end of this period, many have found a perceptible decrease in the negative effects of hormone imbalances. Asian healers have used dong quai for centuries to balance female hormones and to avoid the problems associated with menopause.
To treat the depression that can accompany menopause and andropause, many advocate the use of St. John's Wort (SJW), an extract of the flower Hypericum perforatum. For hundreds of years, SJW has been used to treat mild to moderate depression. In short, St. John’s Wort’s effectiveness is incontrovertible.
There are several homeopathic remedies that can be effective in treating flooding in younger women. (Flooding is the condition in which menstrual bleeding stops for a period of time and then resumes profusely.) The remedy China is used by homeopaths in remedying heavy bleeding with dark, clotted blood. To treat the painful discharge of heavy, bright red, clotted blood, sabina can be used. Sabina can also he used to alleviate feelings of irritability. Secale is helpful in reducing heavy and persistent bleeding of almost black colored blood, while the remedy phosphorous can control frequent bleeding of bright red blood without any clots. Additional Symptoms that can be treated with phosphorous include multiple fears, non-severe depression, chilliness, and memory loss.
Homeopathic remedies can be useful in lessening the vaginal dryness and thinning that frequently accompany menopause. Sepia should be used when the vagina is itchy and dry. When vaginal dryness interferes with sexual intercourse, natmur is the remedy administered. In addition, natmur can be used to control burning vaginal secretions, loss of pubic hair, depression, and irritability that intensifies with consolation. These symptoms often become compounded in the later part of the morning. When dryness and headaches occur simultaneously, the herb bryonia can act as a healing agent. The homeopathic remedy nitric acid is used to treat cases of severe vaginal dryness in which extreme desiccation of the mucosa results in splinter-like sensations in the vaginal region.
Aromatherapy is an approach to menopausal symptoms that incorporates both the mind and the body. Menopausal women may want to try the application of fennel, clary sage, and cyprus in a lotion or body oil two or three times a day. Inhaling peppermint or basil oil on a tissue numerous times a day is recommended by aromatherapists for hot flashes. Remember, though, not to use excessive quantities of essential oils and to avoid direct skin contact. In addition, essential oils should constitute only 3 percent of lotions or body oils. People interested in aromatherapy should seek professional supervision when they begin treatment in order to prevent harmful side effects and ensure that high-quality oils are being used. Also, professional aromatherapists can create specific oils tailored to the individual needs of their clients.
Research demonstrates that exercise can diminish the occurrence of hot flashes in menopausal women. In order to completely reap time benefits of physical fitness, regular exercise should be initiated significantly before the onset of menopause, although any time is a good time to begin – with medical guidance.
Exercise can also be a good counter to menopausal depression and mood swings because it enhances the production of endorphins and serotonin in the brain. And considering the disease-preventive benefits of exercise, everyone should partake, at some level. Beneficial forms of exercise include biking, running, swimming, walking, and dancing. Discover what you enjoy, and then keep at it. Crosstraining can also be advantageous, but be sure to perform different exercises on different days of the week in order to avoid overexerting any one part of the body.
Ayurvedic, which translated means ‘‘the science of life,’’ has had a widespread following in India for 4000 years. The key to Ayurveda lies in the belief that balance can have a profound influence upon a person’s health. Practitioners of Ayurveda examine the patients psychological and physical health, and then custom-design a proper diet and exercise program based upon their evaluation. To alleviate menopausal symptoms, this form of therapy uses herbal phytoprogesterones and phytoestrogens.
Although all women will experience menopause, some will be victimized by adverse symptoms more than others. Remember that the severity of symptoms may be dependent upon one’s willingness to accept the aging process and the person’s ability to adapt to the tremendous hormonal changes that occur. Adaptation includes taking some preventive measures, specifically avoiding several foods that have a tendency to compound symptoms. Clinical research has revealed that excessive intake of sugar, caffeine, and alcohol can modify the blood sugar levels of the body, leading to, or compounding psychological disturbances. Furthermore, it should be noted that studies have correlated alcohol, meat, and cigarettes with premature menopause.
Stress overtaxes the adrenal system and is a major contributor to premature aging, degenerative disease and early death. In these hurried times, we need to make a conscious effort to slow down and find satisfaction in life. Many methods help the mind to overcome stress: deep breathing, tai chi, yoga, meditation, qi gong, mantras, self-hypnosis, hypnosis and Bach flower remedies. EFT is another method for stress release. By touching or tapping the body’s numerous meridian points, we stimulate the flow of energy. Biofeedback uses the body’s own signals to help combat stress. Also, massage is an excellent way to relax.
One of these modalities, reiki, is a powerful tool toward this end. The term is Japanese for universal life force and reiki, a form of therapeutic touch, works by amplifying and channeling this energy. This technique, like acupuncture, is centered on bodily meridians, or energy paths, and proponents extol its ability to release physical and emotional blockages, promote total relaxation and enhance recovery from stress and injuries.
Art, when used as therapy, helps an individual calm down. By coloring, dancing and writing, one can find the road to self-discovery and personal fulfillment. Art has spiritual power.
The more toxic we are, the faster we age. Cosmetic changes, such as facelifts and hair coloring, may temporarily help us appear younger, but to really regenerate we must detoxify, that is, clean ourselves up from the inside. The youthful appearance that results will be the natural byproduct of improved health.
Cleansing practices date back thousands of years. The Essenes, for example, filled gourds with clean river water and used long reeds to wash “devils” out of their intestines. In the modern, polluted world, internal cleansing is especially important, for no matter how well we take care of ourselves, we still breathe in polluted air, bathe in polluted water and take in all sorts of chemicals. Once these substances are absorbed, we never fully eliminate them unless we detoxify.
Some methods of detoxification focus on specific systems; others, such as juice fasting and chelation therapy, help the entire body at once.
Humans have several organs for detoxification—the intestines, kidneys, liver, skin and lungs. In addition, the lymph glands play a major role. Each area must work optimally to avoid overburdening other systems. The following are some therapies beneficial to these organs:
Intestines…The average person carries around several pounds of impacted fecal matter on the intestinal walls, which can create constipation, emotional repression, and an environment conducive to bacteria and disease. To help with this problem, a detoxification drink can be made from ground flaxseeds, psyllium seeds and bentonite, a liquid clay. This formula is excellent for colon cleansing because the clay absorbs toxins while the seeds expand in water and brush the intestines clean. Certain herbs, like rhubarb root, buckthorn bark, ramnus frangula, cascara sagrada, ramnus purshiana and goldenseal are powerful laxatives. Furthermore, sanicle roots or leaves help remove poisonous waste matter from the body. Lastly, sumac berry and bark tea are very cleansing to the system.
Another helpful technique is colonic irrigation. This therapy gently but thoroughly washes the intestines by infusing water into the large bowel in small amounts at steady intervals. Water travels the entire length of the colon. In the process, old encrustations of fecal matter are dislodged and swept away. Often this material has been attached to the bowel for many years and is laden with millions of bacteria. Unless eliminated, this sets up the perfect environment for disease.
Colonic irrigation restores the colon to its natural shape and function so that food is better absorbed and eliminated, skin improves and irritability, fatigue and constipation disappear. A healthy colon means a healthy body.
Kidneys...The herbs dandelion leaf, echinacea and corn silk are beneficial to the kidneys. Short fasts, during which apple juice is mixed with small amounts of parsley, also improve kidney health. The herbs dandelion, echinacea and corn silk are beneficial to the kidneys. Also, the uva ursi leaf is a great remedy in case of kidney infection.
Liver...Milk thistle protects liver function and helps this organ expel toxins. That, in turn, promotes health and youthfulness. The herbs licorice, pau d’arco, tabebuia heptaphylla, stilingia root, prickly ash, St. John’s wort (wort means "plant"), wood betony, chickweed, fennel and sassafras leaf and root protect the liver by drawing toxins from the blood thus helping to avoid blood toxicity.
Lungs...With each exhalation, waste products are removed from the system. And one of the best ways to improve lung capacity is through regular aerobic exercise. Of course, exercise has other age-defying benefits; it facilitates lung functioning. Exercise enables us to detoxify, as we sweat, through the outlet of our skin. It allows more blood to flow to the tissues throughout the body that keep cells from dying prematurely. By oxygenating brain cells, exercise prevents or minimizes senility. It also improves metabolism, so that the body can easily maintain a normal weight. Finally, weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging and weightlifting, enhance bone density thus helping to prevent osteoporosis.
Skin...Not only does our skin provide a protective covering, it also expels many toxins daily. But to do this job properly, the pores must not be clogged. One technique for ensuring this is skin brushing. Using a natural bristle brush or loofah, rub the skin all over in a circular motion, to get rid of dead skin that clogs up the pores. Always brush toward the heart, and never brush thin facial skin.
Taking a sauna is a good follow-up to dry skin brushing because sweat expels toxins through the now open pores. Beginners should start out slowly and keep the temperature at around 185 degrees Fahrenheit. There are different types of saunas, and the directions for each type should be followed.
Lymphatic System...The job of the lymphatic system is to move disease- causing wastes from the body. Cleansing herbs, such as burdock root, red clover, echinacea, dandelion, yellow dock and garlic, can speed up a sluggish lymphatic system. Lymphatic massage and skin brushing also help.
Chelation therapy has many benefits, all of which add up to a longer, healthier life. Several studies show it to favorably impact the four major causes of death in the United States: heart disease, cancer, cerebrovascular disease and chronic obstructive lung disease. In purifying the body, chelation therapy may be the boost that you need.
During treatment, medical doctors administer a man-made amino acid, EDTA, via an intravenous drip. Once in the bloodstream, EDTA attaches itself to heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and mercury, and holds onto these toxic substances until they exit the body through the kidneys. Eliminating these substances prevents premature aging and disease.
In these polluted times, health professionals often recommend chelation therapy for many people over 30. As we get older, the toxic metals from the environment, especially lead, accumulate in the skeleton. Even natural calcium can accumulate in the wrong places. Chelation therapy will take calcium out of the heart vessels and place it back into the long bones, thus preventing osteoporosis.
Another benefit of chelation is that it helps the brain work better. As artery blockages are removed, more blood flows to the brain and cognitive abilities improve. And when these pathways are kept open, individuals are at lower risk for stroke.
As we regain health through detoxification, the body becomes more responsive to therapies that rebuild the system, such as a healthy diet and vitamin/mineral supplements. Below are general recommendations for life-extending foods and nutrients. For more precise guidance, a holistic practitioner can make recommendations based on individual test results.
Tests are important because we do not age uniformly; rather, individual organs diminish in energy at different rates. One thing that Western medicine excels at is laboratory analysis, and a full spectrum of tests can determine which systems are out of balance, and thus causing premature aging. Tests can indicate, for instance, whether the adrenal glands are producing enough anti-aging hormones, whether vitamins and minerals are being properly digested and whether toxic metals are polluting the system. Findings may reveal that one person is anemic due to an iron deficiency, for example, while another is low in folic acid. Results help holistic health practitioners address the unique needs of their patients.
Once you begin a health regimen, subsequent testing shows how well recommendations are taking effect, and adjustments are made accordingly. Some nutrients can be dispensed with once the body starts producing more of its own, while others are needed on a continual basis. Some nutrients, like vitamin C, leave the body rapidly and need to be taken several times each day.
Subjective measures of improvement must also be taken into account. This is done through observation of symptoms and appearance. If symptoms diminish and appearance improves over time, it is an indication that therapies are working. And as the body rejuvenates, a person will notice additional improvements, such as increased endurance, enhanced memory and better body tone.
HGH-HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE
The levels of HGH start to decline after age 40. Some people may benefit from the replacement of this very important hormone, but the physician should decide that.
DHEA—DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONEMASTER—HORMONE
This natural hormone enhances brain functioning and promotes well-being, and could be very important in terms of lengthening the lifespan. It is typical that by the age of 70, DHEA hormone levels are 80-90% lower than they were earlier in life. The highest levels of DHEA in the blood occur around age 25, and progressively decrease thereafter. Naturally, there is great interest in restoring DHEA to youthful levels. Oral administration of 50 mg of DHEA daily mimics the benefits of traditional hormone replacement and triggers the release of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), which stimulates the release of growth hormone.
DHEA counteracts cortisol, a hormone released by stress. It protects the brain against aging. Higher DHEA levels help to release acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits nerve impulses between brain cells. DHEA strengthens the hippocampus by enhancing its activity. This is essential in preventing or improving Alzheimer’s disease. It helps to overcome depression, while promoting a stronger immune system. A properly formulated topical preparation of DHEA keeps and maintains the proper collagen level of the skin.
Before seeking DHEA replacement therapy, men should check their PSA (prostate specific antigen) and take a digital rectal exam. Men with prostate cancer or benign prostate hypertrophy should avoid DHEA because it could easily be converted into testosterone and estrogen. Note: Tests of PSA and DHEA serum levels should be conducted every 6-12 months.
Women need to check their estrogen and testosterone levels periodically in order to determine the dosage of DHEA. Women who have a history of estrogen-dependent cancer should consult their physicians before beginning the DHEA replacement process.
DHEA can promote free radicals in liver cells. When taking oral supplements of DHEA, it is important to take antioxidants to avoid liver damage. It is also suggested that a person take 1000 mg of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and gamma tocopherol 210 mg daily. For men, it is suggested they take saw palmetto extract (160 mg twice a day), pygeum extract (50 mg twice a day), nettle extract (120 mg twice a day) and boron (3-10 mg daily). Women should supplement with melatonin (300 mcg to 3 mg nightly) and vitamin D3 (1000-1400 IU daily).
TESTOSTERONE Rebalancing In Men
Low production of free testosterone is not the most important issue aging men have to confront. The pressing problem, in most instances, is the excessive conversion of testosterone into estrogen. Estrogen triggers the production of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which binds the active free testosterone into an inactive “bound testosterone.” When the testosterone receptors are unable to pick up the bound testosterone, it is useless to the system. Low testosterone elevates the level of the dangerous hormone cortisol, causing immune dysfunction, brain cell injury and arterial wall damage.
The following are natural approaches that rebalance testosterone in men:
Chrysin is a bioflavonoid that is extracted from various plants. The suggested daily dose is 1000 mg, combined with piperine (a component of black pepper) at 10 mg. Originally used by body builders, it is a natural aromatase-inhibitor that increases free testosterone, thereby decreasing excess estrogen. Chrysin has a terrific libido-enhancing effect and has anti-anxiety properties as well. Nettle (constituents of highly concentrated extracts from nettle root) bind to SHBG in place of testosterone, thereby decreasing the chances of producing bound testosterone.
Muira puama is an herbal extract that increases free testosterone and suppresses excess estrogen. It enhances the libido and boosts energy.
Losing weight is highly suggested.
FEMALE NATURAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT
Menopause is not just an estrogen deficiency. Balancing estrogen, testosterone, DHEA and progesterone is essential. When a deficiency arises, it needs to be replaced. These hormones affect the entire system and are linked to: fatigue; brain electrical activity and cognitive function; healthy sexual function; vaginal lubrication; proper sleep; mood; skin; hair; muscle tone, and; a general feeling of well-being.
TESTING
Eric R. Braverman, MD, director of the Place of Achieving Total Health (PATH), recommends a testing protocol before natural estrogen therapy is used. The protocol consists of a physical examination with standard blood work, attention testing, memory assessment, an analysis of hormone and nutrient levels, allergic and toxic metal screening and cancer screening.
NATURAL ESTROGEN…This is a phytoestrogen formula made up of different ingredients (such as soy, licorice) that improve estrogen synthesis: black cohosh mimics the safe estrogen “estriol”; dong quai helps with estrogen balance, and; vitex agnus castus creates hormonal balance and prevents the accumulation of excess prolactin. The suggested dosage is one capsule two times a day.
Topically applied natural progesterone cream could also be used. Additionally, it is suggested that one use alpha lipoic acid 250 mg twice a day, calcium citrate (1000 mg a day) to help prevent bone loss, CoQ10 (100-300 mg a day) and essential fatty acids.
Note: It is a fundamental tenet that a protocol designed to treat a certain condition—in this case, andropause/menopause—will benefit the entire body. Keep this in mind while reading the following.
1. Mostyn, Kathy (100% compliance with the menopause protocol)
I had been taking vitamins and supplements for a few years before I started this protocol. What are the major changes that I noticed after being on the Menopause study? I started getting my period after approximately 46 weeks. I completely STOPPED HAVING HOT FLASHES AND NIGHT SWEATS. Also, my skin looks younger and my hair is growing better. I noticed that my hair even became thicker.
2. Gore, Elisa (100% compliance with the menopause protocol)
I had been on a different Gary Null study before I’ve started the Menopause protocol. I have a thyroid condition, so I can’t consume much soy (this is the only thing that I did not follow). I lost some weight during the 3 months of the study, and the percentage of my body fat decreased. I realized that my overall mental status improved during and after the study (I still follow the Menopausal protocol:) my short- and long- term MEMORY HAS BEEN IMPROVING; also, my ability to concentrate on things is getting better. Additionally, my mood is a lot more even now, no anxiety, no mood swings.
3. Maggio, Judy (100% compliance with of the menopause protocol)
I followed the protocol completely, except that I stopped taking arginine for a while due to a medical condition. During the study, my energy definitely increased. Also, my ENDURANCE AND STAMINA IMPROVED a great deal. I started to remember things that I would normally forget. My concentration at work improved. I noticed also that my SKIN BECAME SMOTHER AND SOFTER, so much that sometimes I even forget to use a skin lotion. Amazing changes occurred in my nails: they do not crack anymore and grow very fast. My hair got slightly thicker and grew longer. I lost weight (4 to 5 lbs in 3 months). Interestingly enough, I get FEWER ALLERGIES (I have a food allergy to milk and wheat) with the increase in vitamin C supplements.
4. Sharpe, Cheryl (100% compliance with the menopause protocol)
My energy definitely increased. I do not get tired as often as I used to and do not have to take naps during a day. There are the major changes that I my body has been experiencing. My sleeping pattern is much-much better. NO URINARY INCONTINENCE anymore. Also, I do not have as intense hot flashes as I used to experience. Finally, my night sweats almost disappeared.
In general, I had a noticeable burst of energy after about one week of following the protocol. Later on, after approximately 2 months, I started to sleep better at night. Some nights, I could even sleep without waking during the night. Also, my nails have been growing very fast and they do not break as often as they used to.
I have increased mental clarity and an abundance of energy. Doing the work has encouraged me to RUN MY FIRST MARATHON. I have new direction for what I want to do in life, especially as a leader in my family. I am helping my son deal with his autism and reaching out to others affected by this condition. I used to be serious but now I take things lightly, not worrying about the past or the future.
7. Vevurka, Dianne (99 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I followed vitamins and supplements intake approximately 99 %. I could not follow the whole exercise program (only about 60 %,) but I do exercise regularly. I walk 15-30 minutes a day and do yoga every day. After being on the protocol, I completely got rid of the pain in my left knee (It had been bothering me for years.) My energy level increased. My hair became darker- great improvement! I have been going through a change in my MENSTRUAL CYCLE: IT IS BACK TO NORMAL! I have no acne on my face (there is still some ache on my arms before my period starts). I LOST WEIGHT after giving up meat (15-20 lbs in about 10 months.) My NIGHT SWEATS are GONE and my mood swings are much more stable. I used to have horrible hemorrhoid bleeding. After the first month of being on the protocol, the bleeding subsided, in about 3 months it completely disappeared.
8. Oleszchuk, Heidi (95 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I followed the protocol entirely before I broke my foot and stopped exercising for a few weeks. In addition, I did not meditate as much as I should have. Nevertheless, during and after the Menopausal study, I lost 15 lbs (over 3- 4 months.) Now, I have a lot more energy during the day and even in the evenings. There is a slight increase in my libido, which is a good thing, because I have a nice relationship and would like to experience all the pleasures out of it. My hot flashes are gone and I have about 90 % reduction in night sweats. In addition, my MOOD STABILIZED and I feel better about myself. Gary Null’s protocol has a very balanced diet. The knowledge that I acquired during the study helped me to find a way of balancing my own meal pattern (certain vegetables and fruits, a little grains, NO SUGAR.) I got rid of SUGAR CRAVINGS after consuming a balanced meal on a daily basis.
9. Kopp, Patricia (95 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I was suffering from ULCERATIVE COLITIS and SHOULDER BURSITIS which both CLEARED COMPLETELY from following the protocol. I sleep very well now after not sleeping well at all before. I have no more hot flashes. My hair is thicker with new growth at the back of my neck. My nails were brittles and would break easily, but now they’re strong and fast growing. My knees used to hurt going down stairs; now I do lunges with 15 pound weights. My urine became more alkaline, going from a pH of 5.5 to 7.3. My concentration and mindfulness are better.
10. Shagawat, Luba (90 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I tried to follow the protocol 100 % except that I would have regular milk and some ice cream once in a while. During the 3 months, I lost 12 lbs. My ability to concentrate is much better now, better endurance and stamina. My total energy increased. My nails do not break anymore and grow faster. My skin looks younger and is not as dry as it was before. Major improvements- NO MORE HOT FLASHES and NIGHT SWEATS!
11. Gluck, Linda (85-90 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I feel more energetic and have experienced age reversal from being on the protocol long term. People don’t guess my age. With the group I LOST 15 POUNDS. My skin is clear now and I’m thinking more clearly.
12. Rodrigues, Arnoldo (80 % compliance with the andropause protocol)
My strength is much better, and I have improved muscle tone and endurance.
My energy improved, intermittent hot flashes were eliminated, and I sleep better.
14. Fontana, Edward (80 % compliance with the andropause protocol)
I ran into some financial problems and could not take all the supplements at the very beginning of the study. Nevertheless, at the end of the second month, I was 80% compliant with the protocol. A major benefit of the program was the realization that I am not the only one dealing with my problems. I acquired a mental comfort to be a part of a team. So, emotionally, I accepted myself and recognized that all the changes taking place in my body were a part of a big inevitable process. I wanted to take care of myself even more. I slowly added supplements and exercising to my daily routine. What improvements did I observed? My energy level increased tremendously. I am a night person, but somehow I became energetic in the morning. My increased libido and erection were so great that it made me feel uncomfortable at times towards my partner. My erection lasted longer during intercourse. In the shower, I noticed that my hair is not coming out as it used to. The skin on my face began to glow. My total mental state got better (especially, short term memory and concentration.) I just wanted to laugh and enjoy myself! I maintained my weight through the study; my body fat is still 3.5 %. Mood swings went away.
15. Smiley, Yvonne (80 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I did not follow the juicing part of the protocol- too much liquid. I also consumed more green stuff as compared to red stuff. Nevertheless, my ENERGY entirely INCREASED. I have less hot flashes and they are not as strong as they were (I just feel warm.) I have much less night sweats and urinary incontinence. I can sleep through the night if I do not consume any liquid right before I go to bed. The PAIN in my shoulders has become almost unnoticeable. My ankle and my knees do not hurt anymore. I have been experiencing an improvement in my stamina.
16. Ryan, Elaine (75-80 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I’ve been on a different protocol since the menopausal study started. Although, while still being on the menopausal protocol, I noticed that my energy increased. I could accomplish more things during a day and did not feel worn out during the evenings. Biggest change- my NAILS get less peeled and GROW faster. I get less sinus headaches (once in 2 weeks currently instead of 1-2 a week in the past.) I lost 10 lbs in 2 month. Now, I am in a good shape and I LOVE MYSELF!
17. Oleszchuk, Tom (75 % compliance with the andropause protocol)
I’d been on a diabetic diet before I started the protocol (I have a prediabetic condition.) I do not consume sugars at all due to my condition. During and after the protocol, my energy increased tremendously and I noticed that I needed less sleep. My wife (who was also on the Menopausal protocol at the same time) and I had improvements in libido and we appreciate it so much! I love to exercise and feel so good afterward! MY WHOLE ATTITIDE TOWARD LIFE CHANGED: I’ve learned to take more time and more space for myself. Tremendous changes!
18. Sullivan, Linda (70 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
I found the support group empowering, giving me a sense of hope to change depression or irritability in a positive way without drugs. It has led me on a continued journey to eat well instead of following the tide. I’ve been very excited to feel better and hear people say I look great. I’ve benefitted physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
19. Goldstein, Sara Lee (70 % compliance with the menopause protocol)
My body reacts badly to sugars so, I consume stevia instead. I got really bad diarrhea right before the study started, and did not have a chance to go to the doctor to take care of it. As a result, I did not take the supplements at the beginning of the study. I was very tired and weak; my whole body was in pain; it got even worse during the first month of the protocol. Then, within 1 1/2 months, my general symptoms gradually subsided; my condition improved; and the pain eventually disappeared. What had caused the symptoms? Possibly a virus, I still do not know. My energy increased so much! I lost some weight (8 lbs.) Also, I used to get severe sinus infections- not anymore! I became more focused; do not have as much fear; and I AM NO LONGER AFRAID OF OPEN SPACES! I am allergic to Candida, so it causes me to lose focus at times and become very spacey. Even when I do get sick now, it is not as bad as it used to be (no severe sinus infection, or chest pain.)
20. Jankowski, Helen (70 % compliance with the menopause protocol.)
My HOT FLASHES DISAPPEARED, I lost weight, and I feel much better. My energy and endurance improve and my nails got better.
21. Troller, Beatrice (100 % compliance for the first 2 months of the protocol; then, after she had heart problems- only 60%)
I observed a big increase in energy, slightly better concentration, and improvement in my stamina. PAIN FROM the ARTHRITIS -- WENT AWAY entirely. I am still having some problems with my heart and wish that I could have started on the protocol again.
22. Heshimi, Adewolf (75 % compliance with the andropause protocol)
My endurance and libido are greatly improved, and AT AGE 59 I WILL BE RUNNING MY FIRST MARATHON, AND HAVE CONCEIVED A CHILD as a result of this work. I have gained lean body mass, and have NEW GROWTH of DARKER HAIR where none was before. I have improved concentration and digestion.
The foods we eat should keep us balanced—not too acid or alkaline. One way to keep our systems stable is to place a pH strip in a urine sample each morning. The ideal result should read approximately 6.8. Deviations from that number mean that the foods eaten the day before were too acidic (downward deviations from 6.8) or too alkaline (upward). Acidic foods are especially harmful as they contribute to numerous diseases. Cutting down on these foods, and eating lots of fruits and vegetables instead, will support the body.
Complex Carbohydrates...An anti-aging diet is high in complex carbohydrates, such as grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Many are eaten raw or close to their natural state, and none are unnecessarily processed or overcooked. Frying is minimized, although stir-frying is acceptable. Very little, if any, animal proteins are eaten, and fats are used sparingly. Only about 10 to 15 percent of calories should come from fat.
Complex carbohydrates help us in several ways. First, they are high in fiber, and can therefore prevent common afflictions associated with aging, such as constipation, hemorrhoids, intestinal diseases, high blood pressure and colorectal cancer. They are also rich in phytochemicals, antioxidant substances found in plants that help us prevent everything from cancer, arthritis and heart disease, to wrinkles and age spots.
By eating diets centered on complex carbohydrates, we not only feel healthier, we look better. Most people tend to gain weight as they age because their metabolism slows down. Complex carbohydrates counter this problem because they are digested quickly Thirty minutes after a meal of rice and vegetables, the body starts to burn up food at maximum speed, a process that continues for 2 ½ to 3 hours. Of course, this works best when foods are eaten without creamy or greasy sauces. But this does not mean that meals must be bland. Many cookbooks show how wholesome food can be healthfully spiced and dressed.
How can foods minimize wrinkling? Beta-carotene, from carrots and other yellow/orange vegetables, enters the cell’s outer membrane and provides some protection against sun damage. This nutrient’s cousin, lycopene, is twice as powerful.
Lycopene gives the watermelon, tomato and pink grapefruit their red color. It is a powerful antioxidant that enters the membrane of skin cells, and provides protection from ultraviolet damage. Recent studies tout it as the new heart attack preventer. Lycopene reduces human DNA damage that can cause cancer.
Polyphenols, a type of phytonutrient, can be obtained from blueberries, bilberries, any deep-colored berries, plums grapes and black currants. Color can be used as a guide; the stronger, more vibrant the color, the more nutritional value the fruit or vegetable has. Polyphenols also have a great neuroprotective effect. They reduce neuropathology and enhance neurogenesis and production of new nerve cells. Polyphenols also have an anti-inflammatory property, and they’re powerful iron chelators. Iron plays a key role in developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Green Foods...Greens are rich in chlorophyll, the ultimate blood purifier. Chlorophyll is known to cure various infections in the respiratory tract and can lessen the effects of various pollutants, such as second-hand smoke, diesel fuel and coal dust. In addition, it can turn an acidic pH more alkaline. Then, food is better absorbed and antioxidants are able to effectively do their job of strengthening the immune system. This, in turn, is a key aspect of slowing the aging process.
Excellent sources of chlorophyll are barley grass and wheatgrass. These are high in superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant enzyme that scavenges free radicals from the body. Additionally, they’re far richer in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and trace elements than are most other vegetables.
Sea Vegetables and Algae...They may not be household words, but you should know that the sea vegetables dulse, kelp and nori are exceptionally high in minerals, particularly calcium, iodine, potassium and magnesium and in trace elements as well. Kelp can rebalance thyroid metabolism, resulting in successful weight management and the reversal of many conditions that are caused by a thyroid imbalance, including stomach and respiratory disorders.
Spirulina and chlorella are single-celled, waterborne algae that are rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. These foods help protect cells and boost energy levels. By building and strengthening at the cellular level, they protect against the effects of aging.
Garlic and Onions...These two are health superstars because they contain sulfur compounds that have an anti-aging and anticancer effect.
Water and Juice...Pure water is an essential part of a good diet, but most people don’t get enough. This is important because suboptimal water intake can dehydrate the brain, causing symptoms of senility in the elderly. Eight 8-ounce glasses daily is a minimum requirement. In addition, fresh, enzyme-rich juices should be a regular part of the diet.
Author’s Note: I have purposely placed my protocol last. This is to discourage using it without the proper foundation. You now have it. This is the protocol that I use for all of those who participate in my Health Support Groups. In order to achieve maximum results, I advise strict adherence. This information is presented for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified, licensed professional. This is the protocol that I use for all of those who participate in my Health Support Groups. In order to achieve maximum results, I advise strict adherence.
1. Drink Green Juices
Drink two 10-oz glasses of organic green juice per day, each consisting of:
Note: When making your juices, use organic produce whenever possible, as harmful chemicals found in tainted fruits and vegetables become more concentrated after juicing. Obviously, that is counterproductive to your objective to cleanse internally. Drink about eight 10-ounce glasses of juice a day and you’ll be treating your whole body to the maximum usable supply of health-giving phytochemicals, antioxidant vitamins and minerals, chlorophyll and enzymes.
To ensure digestibility, you should understand that the juices of dark green vegetables, such as spinach, arugula, parsley and watercress, are very concentrated and should be liberally diluted with more watery juices, such as those of cabbage, celery, or cucumber, or with aloe vera and mineral water. Also, to get the most physical and psychological benefit from juices, drink them slowly, consuming them as you would food as opposed to water. Drinking too fast cheats the mind of taste satisfaction and places unwanted stress on the kidneys and bladder.
2. Take Supplements
Each night, take:
In divided doses throughout the day, take:
Always read the label on any product you purchase.
3. Follow A Healthy Diet
Eat primarily during the day. Have a light breakfast, your main meal between 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. and a light dinner (grains and any salad with dressing, sea vegetable and/or soup).
Follow this elimination diet:
4. Eliminate Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners
Replace with stevia root, raw honey, molasses, brown rice syrup, beet sugar and natural fruit sweeteners. You may use chromium picolinate (200 mcg) for sugar cravings.
5. Eliminated Carbonated Drinks
This includes soda or seltzer. Replace with spring water, distilled water, filtered water, or fresh-squeezed organic fruit juice.
6. Eliminate Wheat
Replace with spelt bread, sprouted whole grain bread, rice bread and Essene bread.
Replace with organic produce, including potatoes again, squash, sweet potatoes, yams, grains, beans, fruits and vegetables.
8. Eliminate Fried and Processed Foods.
Replace with steamed, sautéed, stir-fried, grilled or broiled foods. Use the following oils for cooking: coconut, macadamia and safflower oils. Use the following oils for oils for baking: hazelnut and macadamia and safflower. Use the following for baking: hazelnut and macadamia nut. Use the following oils for salads: walnut, flax seed, extra virgin cold pressed olive oil. Do not cook with olive oil.
This includes food additives, preservatives, coloring agents and flavorings.
10. Avoid MSG and Miso
Mercury Dental Amalgams
An important component of the Gary Null Menopause/Andropause protocol is removing mercury dental amalgams from the participant’s mouth. Some remain skeptical about the significance of this act. Note the following:
“How could mercury be completely harmless when put into a patient’s mouth?” asks Dr. Boyd Haley, professor and chair of the department of chemistry at the University of Kentucky. “I think the situation would make a great Gilbert and Sullivan musical,” Haley notes. “It is absolute silliness for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and OSHA to say that mercury before going in and after coming out of mouth is totally toxic, but inside the mouth is absolutely safe.”[i][i]
Yet, the evidence is overwhelming. The peer-reviewed scientific literature reveals a number of disturbing facts about dental amalgam, according to a review conducted by the Australasian Society of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (ASOMAT), a nonprofit professional organization of dentists and doctors that promotes concepts of biocompatible dentistry. ASOMAT’s analysis found that the mercury contained in dental amalgams is continuously released from fillings and almost totally absorbed, that it accumulates in tissues throughout the body, and that the very toxic metal interferes with a variety of physiological systems. Further, the physiological effects and health changes that occur can be demonstrated through the placement and removal of amalgam, and the dental profession itself has shown evidence of health problems related to mercury exposure.
A recent study of patients undergoing amalgam removal and chelation therapy found that the most common complaints were problems with memory and/or concentration; muscle and/or joint pain; anxiety and insomnia; stomach, bowel and bladder complaints; depression; food or chemical sensitivities; numbness or tingling; and eye symptoms, in descending order of frequency. The most distressing symptoms were headache and backache, fatigue and memory and concentration problems.
ASOMAT reports that controlled, broad-scale scientific studies of the health effects of mercury released from dental amalgams have never been conducted. However, amalgam fillings have been associated in the scientific literature with a number of ailments, including periodontal problems (pyorrhea), allergic reactions, oral lichen planus, immune system interference, multiple sclerosis, fatigue, cardiovascular problems, skin rashes, endocrine disorders and eye problems.
In addition, the toxic threshold for mercury vapor has never been identified, and the occupational standards that have been set are estimates based on signs and symptoms which can be clinically observed. The earliest symptoms of long-term, low-level mercury poisoning are subclinical and neurological, which makes them easy to misdiagnose.
The U.S. Public Health Service did establish a safe level of exposure to mercury from amalgams in 1994 when it published the “Toxicological Profile for Mercury,” a report by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The document set a minimal risk level (MRL) for chronic and acute exposure to mercury vapor for the general population at 0.28 micrograms of mercury per day. It set an acute exposure MRL at 0.4 micrograms.
The report openly acknowledged that these levels are far below the amount of daily exposure provided by mercury amalgam fillings.
The ADA has claimed that people are exposed to more mercury from fish than from dental amalgams, a statement challenged by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology because the scientific evidence proves otherwise. As the Academy states, “Autopsies of people with fillings confirm that the amount of exposure to dietary mercury is apparently much less than that from dental amalgam mercury. Authorities in the field of metal toxicology have concluded that this chronic exposure from dental fillings makes the predominant contribution of human exposure to mercury.”
Numerous studies support the finding that amalgam fillings are the main source of mercury exposure in the general population. Perhaps the earliest of these is a 1991 report produced by the World Health Organization in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Labor Organization. This report states very explicitly that mercury dental fillings are the principal source of mercury and mercuric compound intake and retention among the general population not occupationally exposed to mercury.
A review by Drs. Lorscheider and Vimy and Anne O. Summers, a biochemist, concludes that “Medical research has demonstrated that [mercury from dental amalgams] is continuously released as vapor into mouth air. Animal and human experiments demonstrate that the uptake, tissue distribution, and excretion of amalgam mercury is significant, and that dental amalgam is the major contributing source to mercury body burden in humans.”
According to organized dentistry, amalgams do not pose a long-term threat because the mercury becomes inert after a filling has set for several days. But a number of studies prove that mercury continues to leach from fillings due to the ongoing deterioration of the amalgam.
Factors leading to corrosion include the physical stress of chewing, the acidity and temperature of foods and beverages and the electromagnetic potential of other metals in the mouth. Dental amalgam contains not only mercury (52% by weight), but also silver, tin, copper and zinc. Crowns and bridges may contain these elements as well as aluminum, beryllium, gold, iridium and nickel.[ii][ii] Even the simple act of brushing your teeth can release mercury from amalgam, according to a report by J.E. Patterson.
Other studies have analyzed the expired air of humans to determine how much mercury leaches from amalgams. In a study by Drs. Vimy and Lorscheider of the University of Calgary (Canada), 35 subjects with amalgams chewed gum for 10 minutes and released “quite substantial” amounts of mercury vapor into intra-oral air, about six times more vapor during chewing than before. The intra-oral air of control subjects contained insignificant levels of mercury vapor, and the act of chewing did not alter those levels.
The researchers concluded: “The results demonstrate that the amount of elemental mercury released from dental amalgam exceeds or comprises a major percentage of internationally accepted threshold limit values for environmental mercury exposure. It is concluded that dental amalgam mercury makes a major contribution to total daily dosage.”
In a study conducted in Germany, researchers found that amalgam carriers who chewed gum had urinary mercury levels twice that of controls with a similar mercury burden who didn’t chew gum.
Sam Ziff and Michael Ziff, D.D.S., cite Dr. Patrick Stortebecker on this topic: “The important point to remember is that mercury vapor, ions and abraded particles are escaping and being inhaled and swallowed as well as being absorbed by the oral and nasal mucosa continuously during the lifetime of an amalgam filling.”
Once an amalgam releases mercury vapor, the inhaled fumes can travel throughout the body and into the brain. The vapor is absorbed into body tissues, oxidized to ionic mercury and finally covalently bound to cell proteins. The mercury fumes also settle on the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, an especially dangerous location since the mercury is then transported directly to the pituitary gland and the brain.
In fact, mercury can easily enter brain tissue after crossing the blood-brain barrier or latch on to a developing fetus after passing through the placenta. This is especially true of mercury vapor, where 74% to 100% is assimilated.
Note: In order to objectively analyze the results of the data accumulated during the study, I requested that my staff find—I did not want to participate in this aspect of the process, so as to remove any hint of interference with the results obtained—invited two graduate students in nutrition from Brooklyn College to examine the numerous documents amassed during the study. The following is their report.
The Andropause/Menopause Health Support Group was conducted by Dr. Gary Null and his associates in the spring of 2007. It provided protocols for diet, exercise, juicing, supplements, de-stressing, and meditation, as well as teaching on beliefs and attitudes. Regular meetings were held for 3 months. In entry and exit surveys, participants rated their current status and changes in categories of energy, mental function, andropause and menopause symptoms, hair and skin condition, and body functions. Telephone contact with participants added information where needed. Of 51 group participants, 30 had complete enough data to be included in the study. Data was collected at the beginning of the intervention and at 3 to 8 months following. For undesirable conditions, such as hair thinning, only those with the existing problem were included in assessing the amount of change for that category. For each of 37 variables, responses from a minimum of nine, and up to twenty-four subjects were assessed. Complete starting and ending basic laboratory blood analyses were obtained and compiled for five men and 12 women. Testimonials and compliance information were obtained by phone from 22 of those in the evaluation.
A majority, and usually a substantial majority of subjects, reported improvements in 35 out of 37 variables. In overall energy and mental functions, 100 percent of participants in the study indicated improvements. Laboratory blood analysis generally did not show conclusive changes following the intervention. Almost all subjects were enthusiastic in reporting personal stories, frequently citing additional benefits such as weight loss, joint disorder relief, new hair growth, renewed menstrual cycles, first-time marathon training, and increased self-esteem. The assessment finds the participants typically reporting remarkable and often outstanding results.
As graduate students in nutrition at Brooklyn College, we made this assessment to fulfill dietetic internship requirements. Under indirect supervision for academic evaluation by Dr. Null, we were given all available access to participants and data of the group and had absolute discretion in separately evaluating the results.
Nataliya Rostova
Lawrence Hubbell