"The hard part of professional journalism going forward is writing about what hasn't been written about, directing attention where it hasn't been, and saying something new."
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/tnIUw7
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Magic Mouthwash
One of the most popular page on our website - several hundred visitors each month - is about a compounded preparation that we refer to as Magic Mouthwash. Actually, there are many versions and variations. It is a preparation used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with mouth sores (stomatitis). Our page explains the differences and similarities.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/tzNRoR
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
A LOT of time on their hands in the UK?
I read this report that explained how "Higher body mass index (BMI), previous knee injury, and radiographically confirmed osteoarthritis (OA) are predictors of persistent knee pain in women 50 years and older..." Is this earth shattering NEWS?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rKIffp
Monday, December 19, 2011
Painful Breast Lumps PROBABLY aren't Serious
The first thing that comes to mind when a woman discovers painful lumps on her breasts is the BIG C. Thankfully, that usually isn't the case, especially when the woman is young. It is a common condition - not a disease - that is referred to as Fibrocystic Breast - actually means lumps in the breast. Instead of fear, biopsies, and testing, some doctors get excellent results with iodine and progesterone. Read more on my website.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/uXSjBU
Friday, December 16, 2011
Fix YOUR house before working on MINE
Brian Caputo says the city currently pays $.07733 per kw-hour. Com Ed confirmed that the rates on the west side of Aurora are $.06968 for residential and $.07014 for commercial. Should the city should FIRST demonstrate that it can negotiate a better rate for itself before it begins to work on my behalf?
It is important to KNOW that the savings are on the cost of the electricity, NOT the franchise fees, taxes, or any of the other fees tacked on to the bill.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/txKQkj
More on the BPA issue.
If you absolutely must heat your food in a microwave machine, never, ever use plastic wraps or containers. The charged microwaves will drive toxic chemicals (and BPA) from the plastic and INTO your food.
What about those heat-and-serve containers, the black ones in which many frozen foods are delivered? Nope! They contain plastic.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vHAJrn
What are your thoughts on BPA and canned foods?
Endocrine disruptor (BPA) from the lining of soup cans shows up in urine of test subjects. Whether its "harmful", "possibly harmful", or even "possibly safe", I would prefer bisphenol A NOT be in my food. I do my best to avoid canned soup - canned anything, actually. I'm certainly not 100% successful, but I think I do better than most.
See this Amp at http://amplify.com/u/a1kpp8
Thursday, December 15, 2011
No, NOT Lemonade
Here's a simple method for improving health. Place a wedge of lemon (about an eighth) in a cup of hot water. No sweetener. No mint. No ice cubes. This article offers ten good reasons to do this. I've done this in the past and just "got out of the habit". I'm starting again in the morning.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vImjbB
Vitamin D3 shown to REDUCE flu by 50%
Here's a PubMed abstract about the effects of Vitamin D3 in preventing the flu. Yes, geeks like me read the abstract and the studies, but that isn't necessary. If you don't have the time or inclination check out the details for yourself, trust me when I say that Vitamin D3 supplements can be very effective in reducing the incidence of flu. A wise person will take extra Vitamin D3 during the cold/flu season - and get plenty of sunshine during the rest of the year.
See this Amp at http://1.usa.gov/rv8y4b
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Surgery can't CURE cancer.
This is a surgeon explaining how she uses special fluorescent materials to assure that she gets ALL of the cancer when she operates. She actually uses the word, "cure". Her basic health philosophy informs her that cancer is a unique set of cells that she can excise completely and bring about her cures. Sadly, the tumor isn't the cancer. It is merely the result of a cancer. Yes, she surgically removes all of the material, but she's still a long way from being able to claim a cure. Surgery, chemo, and radiation MIGHT help, but they will never cure.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/s8dbgf
One way to save BIG BUCKS - there are more.
SUMMARY: "The Obama administration proposes trimming $248 billion over 10 years from Medicare alone. Yet if fraudulent losses could be reduced by just a few percentage points, the issue becomes moot--and the medical support that tens of millions of Americans rely upon could continue uninterrupted.\ ... If only 10% is lost to fraud... that's $80 billion a year--... if it's 20% or 30%? [that's] $200 billion over 10 years. [We] wouldn't need to cut reimbursement rates for providers. [We] wouldn't need to restrict insurance coverage. [We] wouldn't have to increase deductibles."
I know of several OTHER ways to save. Sadly, nobody is interested.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vw5Szv
Monday, December 12, 2011
Prostate Cancer Options
"almost 90% of men told they have prostate cancer opt for immediate treatment with surgery or radiation therapy"
For most of my career I've agreed with the standard approach to cancer diagnoses. Except for rare instances, watching and waiting are superior approaches. This is particularly true when it comes to prostate cancer. However, as the quote above suggests, that old wisdom is mostly ignored in modern America. We seem to all be enthralled with the idea that we can have things fixed, quickly, and that all will be well as soon as the job is done (or the drugs taken, or the radiation focused). Surprise! While one problem might go away (or be cut away), it is highly likely that other problems will arise, which might also require attention - and more action. Then, it seems to all go downhill from there.
It is important to keep in mind that all of us have cancerous cells most of the time. Our body destroys them as they arise - until our immune system is compromised. The focus probably ought to be on keeping the immune system healthy and potent, not cutting, burning, or poisoning.
See this Amp at http://hvrd.me/vpgtD1
Thursday, December 08, 2011
This report is BULL.
"Nearly 40% of women who experience depression in the 12 months after childbirth also suffer from intimate partner violence, according to a study in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology." Don't researchers have anything else to do, but invent a new diagnosis and place blame someplace it doesn't belong?
Post-Partum Depression (Baby Blues) is often associated with hormone imbalance after giving birth. Mom goes from a place of extremely high hormone levels to very low levels. Low progesterone is particularly problematic with mood. We have seen many women "turn around on a dime" when they used progesterone supplements after having a baby.
And I am particularly concerned about the harm that can be done when people in authority make up titles like, "intimate partner violence". What comes first, the violence or the depression? Is it at all possible for an "intimate partner" to be pushed to the end of his/her rope because of the way his/her partner is acting? Of course it is. Baby Blues is treatable and it does NOT require antidepressants. Just a responsible amount of supplemental progesterone - the important hormone that is low after birth.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/t586Rc
More Speed Drugs for Our Children!
Here's a key bit of good advice from a basically depressing report, "Kids who eat better, behave better.?
See this Amp at http://amplify.com/u/a1jmjw
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
These probably apply to ALL Cancers. Agree?
unnecessary ionizing radiation
hormones
oral contraceptives,
estrogen-progesterone hormone replacement therapy
smoking
eating right
lack of exercise
excess alcohol
exposure to benzene, 1.3-butadiene, and ethylene oxide
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/uJqIe0
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Who NEEDS Estrogen?
Here's a key line in this post, "only a tiny number of people ever need additional estrogen." Would you agree?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/tnBNKh
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Plenty of Food for Thought
Seriously consider subscribing to George's blog. He offers insights into the world on many important levels. Like many of us, he doesn't have all the answers and he surely doesn't even hint that he has some of them. What George offers is something to fuel our thoughts.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/ubhT17
Am I being manipulated by my doctor?
It is probably subtle, but the effects are unmistakable. There is no way I could ever hold a bad thought about a doctor who dragged me back from the brink of destruction. How about you?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/v16GK4
Monday, November 28, 2011
The NIH says you should TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR
Seems the NIH "experts" have a difficulty describing how a person should use Ambien (zolpidem). One thing is for certain. Here's a summary of the NIH article;
Don't take it for more than two weeks. If you want to take it for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor. If you take it for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor.
How about this advice? If you want to be healthy, not addicted to zolpidem, and not dependant on drugs to MAKE you sleep, don't talk to your doctor.
See this Amp at http://1.usa.gov/vWllrY
Yes and no.
I first heard about using black pepper on small cuts on a bulletin board for wood carvers. They are often experts in accidentally cutting themselves.
It turns out that black pepper is only one of many such home remedies for bleeding.
I’ve also seen recommendations of flour, cayenne pepper powder, ground coffee, and corn starch. This leads me to believe that it’s not the particular substance but rather that the substance is powdered. The powder clots the blood on the surface, which would be enough to stop the bleeding on a minor cut.
BTW...I nicked my ear shaving. Wouldn't stop bleeding until I applied ground black pepper and a bandage. All was well within a few minutes.
Of course, don't be silly. A serious injury requires medical attention rather than a home remedy. http://bit.ly/vssCBB
I first heard about using black pepper on small cuts on a bulletin board for wood carvers. They are often experts in accidentally cutting themselves.
It turns out that black pepper is only one of many such home remedies for bleeding.
I’ve also seen recommendations of flour, cayenne pepper powder, ground coffee, and corn starch. This leads me to believe that it’s not the particular substance but rather that the substance is powdered. The powder clots the blood on the surface, which would be enough to stop the bleeding on a minor cut.
BTW...I nicked my ear shaving. Wouldn't stop bleeding until I applied ground black pepper and a bandage. All was well within a few minutes.
Of course, don't be silly. A serious injury requires medical attention rather than a home remedy. http://bit.ly/vssCBB
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
'tis the season for some CHOCOLATE?
Just don't confuse real chocolate with milk chocolate (a lot of sugar and scant cocoa) or white chocolate (sugar but no cocoa). Those versions will push your body into places you really don't want it to go. Look for chocolates that are 60% to 70% cocoa.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vTq49F
WHERE Merck Get the Money?
Like every company, Merck doesn't have any money that it didn't get from the sales of its products. Therefore, this whopping "settlement" of $950 million was nothing more than a redistribution of the money people paid to use the Merck drugs. Nobody at Merck suffers even a dime's worth of loss when "the company" is fined. I think it is important to keep this concept in mind whenever we hear that some big company - or group of companies - makes a large payout. Think, cigarette companies.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/sDXy7w
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
I Disagree, George
I don't think we have the right president, the right congress, the right news media, the right governor, or the right state legislature. They all seem terribly out of touch with the problems - and they are surely give me any confidence that they might be capable of solutions.
I have some ideas on HOW we got into such a mess, but I am at a loss for any quick solutions.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/sRtLrs
Any "problems" between Nopalea and Effexor?
Probably not. Of course, there's no absolute guarantee, but the cactus juice seems harmless. You probably already know that I have far more reservations about drugs (Effexor), but that isn't the question. Take a look and let me know what you think.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vPi0XG
Friday, November 18, 2011
Dr. Jonathan Wright Is A Disappointment.
Okay, Dr. Wright, you've entertained your readers with a rant about using too many antibiotics. That's old news. How about some specific recommendations? Yes, you mentioned "questioning the doctor" and how we "...don’t have to fill every prescription [we're] handed". But, what do you mean? What questions - and what should we DO with the answers? How do we decide which prescriptions to have filled and which ones to toss?
I agree 100% with your position on antibiotics. Many of us do. I want more from you - and so do all the people who look to you for guidance.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rzKRaq
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Otherwise healthy girl in a "waking coma"
Here again I'm forced to ponder the wisdom of injecting a vaccine into a child with the intent of preventing a virus infection that might cause cervical cancer.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vR7qLq
So, you want to be THE BEST. Why?
Seth Godin hits the nail on the head -as he does about 98% of the time.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/w0o3uT
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
STINK
“I pick up garbage [for a living], and these were some of the worst smells I’ve ever experienced,’’
See this Amp at http://nyp.st/uqTE0I
Am I taking too much of my hormones?
In general, I have determined that people who use estrogen supplements are probably using too much. Even tiny doses are unnecessary. I'll probably be accused of blasphemy by all teh doctors and pharmacists who are "experts" in anti-aging and hormone replacement therapy. I must note here that I do not object to progesterone, ore even testosterone. Just estrogens.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/sXhBVV
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
The Hardships of Quitting Cheese
Nick Swardson is a comedian. That's why this short article is amusing . More importantly, the story bears a message. It is that food - even the most common ones - can make us ill. Read Nick's article. think about it. Share it - PLEASE SHARE IT.
See this Amp at http://on.wsj.com/uOWcBQ
This makes sense.
I would never suggest that being sick is a good thing. It's always a miserable experience for the child, the parents, and for anyone in the vicinity. Still, it is good to know that something positive can come from it all. It supports the old saying, "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger". Early childhood disease seems to make for a stronger child in the school setting.
See this Amp at http://fxn.ws/rVvDfx
Monday, November 14, 2011
This make me ill.
"The recommendations were greeted positively by many cardiologists and pediatricians, who say that earlier testing is warranted, especially in the face of increasing childhood obesity and diabetes. "
Instead of LOOKING for reasons to start treating more people with drugs, why aren't we engaging in changing the things that cause obesity, diabetes, and heart disease? We already know what they are and more drugs, surgery, or radiation aren't going to help. Changing behavior will.
Don't tell me how difficult it is to make kids eat right and exercise. Yes, popping a pill is easier, but where has that strategy gotten us?
Admit it. If we continue to do what we've always done, we'll continue to get more of what we already have. There aren't any drugs that will help. Never have been and never will be.
See this Amp at http://abcn.ws/taGWRq
Accidents happen, but...
Yes, this happened in Ireland, but from my perspective, it could be anywhere in the world, even in the United States. Accidents happen and sometimes they're sad. The most damning part of this case is what the mother said about the incident, "No one came near us. Sam was getting more and more upset, crying and screaming, but no one in the hospital came back to us."
I am saddened by the heartless attitude this comment portrays. In a better world, the hospital staff would have been "all over the frightened child" and would have been doing everything to comfort the distraught parents.
I miss that kind of medicine.
See this Amp at http://fxn.ws/sjMScS
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Gloves are no guarantee your doctor's hands are clean.
Fixating on gloves might not be a productive action. Heck, practically everything about a hospital, a clinic, an exam room, the doctor, or any of the staff is likely to be massively infested with germs. How often do the men have their ties cleaned? I'm 65 and have never cleaned a tie in my life - and I have some that are more than 10 years old. What about those lab coats? They look white, but. How about the stethoscope? Was it sanitized after being pressed to that last person's chest? I could go on, but you probably get the picture. Instead of worrying about gloves, do more to keep yourself healthy and away from doctors, hospitals, and the like.
See this Amp at http://nyti.ms/tCbEu5
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Can you name your three top mentors?
I was asked this during a radio interview and it only took a few seconds to think of my top three. I put it to writing. Call your own mentors to mind and be conscious of how they molded your life.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vhUsyA
Could Soda Pop Machines Return to Schools?
Seems to suggest that the students are going to gorge on sugar products whether they are in the school or not. So, why not take advantage of their insatiable appetite and make a few bucks selling sugary products in the halls?
This is shoddy logic, but I wouldn't be surprised to see vending machines making a comeback in the schools.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/t3jKs7
Monday, November 07, 2011
Pringles
Thursday, November 03, 2011
Ten Immune System Boosters.
If you have decided to forgo a flu shot, you will certainly want to consider these ten approaches to a stronger immune system. Heck, consider these in any event.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/tJpsAf
Hormone Imbalance = Estrogen Dominance
Estrogen Dominance is common and it is not related to too much estrogen. Instead, it is caused by chemicals that exert action in the body similar to estrogens. The common causes of estrogen dominance include: (1) taking the pill, (2) taking Hormone Replacement Therapy, (3) exposure to environmental poison, (4) eating non organic and estrogen pumped animal products, (5) stress in all its forms, and (6) dangerous cosmetics.
Read this article to get the full details.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rx8QMR
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Global Warming. What to do?
George is a friend, and a great writer. His blog is certainly worth reading. He even allows me to make comments. Thanks, George.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rJ9ZrU
This is a load of manure - ignore these reports.
It seems that everyone is playing with the "data" collected in the Nurses' Health Study. Yes, hundreds of thousands of people were subjects in that study and there were some significant findinigs. Sadly, huge amounts of the data were generated by self reporting. That means that the participants told the investigators their perception of their actions. This is a wildly inaccurate form of data collection and it is inappropriate and unwise to use it, especially when you are evaluating rare events within the sample. Why?
First, the "data" is unreliable. Quickly, can you tell me how many ounces of alcohol you consumed each week for the past month? Do you know how much alcohol is in a glass of wine or a bottle of beer? Even, how much alcohol is in an ounce or whiskey or vodka? No, unless you are well versed in percentages and the concept of proof, you won't know those numbers. Therefore, you are only going to report the number of drinks, glasses of wine, or number of beers. The investigators will convert to ounces of alcohol.
Maybe that's good until I ask you to accurately report how many glasses of wine, martinis, or beers you drank per week during the previous month. Heck, I can't even tell you what I had for lunch last Saturday let alone describe the number of drinks I might have consumed.
Perhaps the numbers work to the advantage of the bean counters who were playing with the "data" (not real data, btw). So what? The reported risk is 333 per 100,000 years, or 0.0033 per year, or 0.167 per 50 years. It may be mathematically significant, but who can honestly worry about risks that are so tiny? Maybe the researchers, but not me.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/seIDL0
My BIG Peroxide Article from way back in 2010
Hydrogen Peroxide, 3%
Available without a prescription (still!)
Many uses.
Safe.
What do you think?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/ttUTdJ
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
My Top Three WORST Drugs
Too Many People Take Too Many Drugs. It has to stop. Of all the dangerous drugs on the market, there are three (categories) that I think are the worst. Take a look. Also, don't miss the "comment" section.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vUXpzV
My Top Three Worst Drugs
Too Many People Take Too Many Drugs. It has to stop. Of all the dangerous drugs on the market, there are three (categories) that I think are the worst. Take a look. Also, don't miss the "comment" section.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/vUXpzV
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Cute idea.
I'd consider ordering them if they were made un the United States.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/uYyQyk
Why not try it?
My thoughts about Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) are fairly liberal - contrary to what "those in the know" support.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rWw6lP
Another piece of the coat is beginning to unravel.
Annual screening with chest X-Ray did not reduce lung cancer mortality compared with usual care. I am pleased that the rest of the medical community is beginning to recognize the flaws and fallacies in the whole idea of medical screening.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/sNNE8h
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
PSA is out. What about mammograms?
The link on this post is to a report in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Here's their Conclusion: "Most women with screen-detected breast cancer have not had their life saved by screening. They are instead either diagnosed early (with no effect on their mortality) or overdiagnosed."
That simple statement holds massive amounts of information, particularly for women and their families when a diagnosis is made when the woman is young. Imagine the devastation of "hearing" she has cancer. Those are words that can ruin a life and they can NEVER be recalled.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/t4sWmV
Monday, October 24, 2011
“You will always have leachables”
A professor from the University of Illinois once BLASTED me about my concerns of "estrogens in the environment". I still worry about pesticides, plasticizers, household chemicals, and so on - all that exert activity on the body similar to estrogens. The professor told me in a lecturing tone of voice that those chemicals are tested and found only in small, insignificant amounts. I asked about the dangers that might occur when a person ingested "safe" amounts of several of those substances. The professor paid for his order and left without another comment, except, "have a nice day". I never saw him again. Hmm.
I still think my concerns are correct. In fact, the number of toxins have increased and, now, here's a report about how even more chemicals get into our bodies through leaching - moving from the packaging to the contents and then into our bodies.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/n8eaSG
Friday, October 21, 2011
Addicted to Medical Testing?
Medical tests should be used to CONFIRM a diagnosis, not MAKE a diagnosis.
I recently heard from someone who said her doctor said arecent blood test showed that she is hypothyroid (low thyroid). She didn't ask to be tested for thyroid and did not report ANY symptoms that might lead the doctor to think her thyroid was not functioning up to par. The doctor used that one test value to arrive at a diagnosis. Of course, he promptly wrote a prescription for a drug the woman "knew in her gut" she shouldn't take. I told her it might be wise to listen to her gut.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/p7JAy3
More on the ADHD issue.
Two studies out of the U.K. found that kids given foods that contain artificial dyes and the preservative sodium benzoate start to climb the walls.
I must always ask, "would you prefer to drug your child with speed drugs or find ways to prevent/treat his/her ADHD more naturally?"
Drugs only seem to be an easy answer. Over the long haul, they are still deadly.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/nWdQeZ
Thursday, October 20, 2011
ADHD - More Drugs or Better Food and Exercise?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition tailor-made to sell drugs.
One analysis finds that the number of kids on drugs like Ritalin and Adderall has jumped 3.4% every year since 1996.
There's a mountain of evidence that a combination of better diet and more exercise (especially outdoors) is superior to drug "treatment".
How would you prefer to help your child if he/she received a diagnosis of ADHD?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/o3hhos
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Should your hairdresser screen you for skin cancer?
I'm not certain how I feel about this idea. Sure, it makes sense on some level, but how would it play out in the mess we call a legal system in the U.S. today?
See this Amp at http://huff.to/o9PDrT
prenatal test for Down syndrome
What would you do if you discovered your unborn might have Down's syndrome as early as 10 weeks into a pregnancy?
Just think about it. I am not actually soliciting answers.
See this Amp at http://bloom.bg/qI5wQH
Typical of modern "scientific" studies?
One study says there's NO effect from diet. The other says there is. Which is it? Both? Neither? C'mon scientists, get your STUFF together. All you're doing these days is confusing everyone - including yourselves. It would be better to say, "we found two studies that contradict each other, so we're not going to report either". Instead, they seem to NEED studies so badly they're willing to publish anything and everything.
Dumb. Irresponsible. Irritating. Confusing.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/oeRNmr
Sunday, October 16, 2011
What are you made of?
Most of the cells in our bodies aren't "us". Who the heck are they, then? Pleas note that this is NOT for the squeamish (just kidding).
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/qlNGIT
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Give Me a Break!
How can anyone legitimately ask, "Did Alternative Medicine Kill Steve Jobs?"
It is very rare for someone to survive 5 years after they’ve received a diagnosis of localized pancreatic cancer. More than half die in under ten months. Steve Jobs received his diagnosis in 2004 and died in 2011, a seven year ordeal that wasn’t made completely unbearable with “standard medicine”. Here was a man who lived his life on his terms. He decided how he would be treated. The conclusion of his life was determined by a disease, but it didn’t control him. Standard medical approaches offered a statistical survival of 6 months to under five years. He BEAT those odds by not following the standard course of treatment from the start.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/nZEFOd
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Do we BELIEVE it will get better?
A news article regarding shortages of medicines at hospitals was sent to me, and the sender asked my thoughts.
I wanted to share those with you.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/qdLpWz
The iSuck is really cool.
Available exclusively from The Compounder website. I STUCK a container of our special skin cream to the glass by the door. It stayed there for over two weeks. I think it finally vibrated loose.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/lkYm9L
Monday, October 10, 2011
Consumers pay everything. Don't you forget it.
Who REALLY paid the tobacco company fines?
Does anyone really believe that the tobacco companies are paying the $206 billion fine that was levied on them in 1998? Every penny they have - and pay in fines or taxes - comes from the sale of their products.
What if the government imposes a tax on a company - any company? The customers of that company pay it. The company either raises prices or accepts lower profit (ha!).
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/qhocI3
FDA is Doing a 180
In October, 1981, our FDA published its *DESI Less-Than-Effective Drug List. Effective the end of that month, the government would stop reimbursement for those drugs under Medicaid and Medicare Part B. The hundreds of drugs on that special list eventually left the market. Now, the same FDA - a little older and wiser (yeah, right) is now approving combination drugs again. Is this a case of dumb OR dumber?
*http://www.dhs.state.or.us/policy/healthplan/guides/pharmacy/misc_files/desi1.pdf
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rpIpGc
*CYA Medicine
Medical professionals are running scared - afraid of lawsuits. The driving fears almost force them to do what everyone else is doing - sometimes referred to as the standard of care. The days of helping people achieve and maintain health are long gone for most practitioners. In place of good diets, exercise, and meditation are drugs, surgery, and radiation. Most of us lose in this scenario, but the doctors are safe and protected from legal harm. Yet, according to this report, they go ahead and DO the things that they DON'T prescribe to their patients. Is this ANOTHER moral problem? I think so.
*CYA = Cover Your A**
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/oQRdIO
Sunday, October 09, 2011
I don't FEEL that I'm too old, but...
This seems to be a good project and I'd participate if I didn't fail the acceptance standards (age, don't you know). The idea is to establish a database of people who can be matches for bone marrow. Seth Godin (http://bit.ly/roZApA) told me about it in reference for finding a marrow match for his friend who has leukemia.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/nPa5ny
Friday, October 07, 2011
Why Was the 1918 Flu So Lethal?
Mortality during that flu pandemic was universally associated with concurrent severe bacterial pneumonia, which today is preventable and curable.
There are also reports that suggest sanitation is better in 2011 than it was in 1918. Ya think that might have an impact on health?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/ppMrxn
Can a coach be dedicated to his team?
YES! [Kurt Becker] is so dedicated to the Marmion team that he was not joining the ’85 Bears team in their visit to the White House — not because of any political agenda, but simply because the visit conflicted with a big Marmion game and Becker had just explained to the kids how the team must come first.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/pYGM7k
It's About Time, Thank you...
"Healthy men should no longer receive a P.S.A. blood test to screen for prostate cancer because the test does not save lives over all and often leads to more tests and treatments that needlessly cause pain, impotence and incontinence in many, a key government health panel has decided. "
The government has also stated, "... only 25 to 35 percent of men who have a biopsy due to an elevated PSA level actually have prostate cancer". (see http://1.usa.gov/oEmRPr). That means the PSA test is PROBABLY WRONG up to 75% of the time.
See this Amp at http://nyti.ms/r37MXE
Monday, October 03, 2011
Positive gut flora at the core of ADHD treatment?
Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride describes the entire process in her book, Gut and Psychology Syndrome: Natural Treatment for Autism, Dyspraxia, A.D.D., Dyslexia, A.D.H.D., Depression, Schizophrenia.
Start by reading my blog post. Then, buy the book if this topic interests you.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/obdH8J
Saturday, October 01, 2011
The Nine Foods Most Contaminated by Pesticides
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Do More Tests? No!
The author* writes, "Primary care physicians in the U.S. believe they are being forced to provide excessive care to their patients, particularly in terms of testing and referrals..."
Doctors do so many tests for many of the wrong reasons; concerns about malpractice, excess reliance on the clinical significance of the test, and inadequate clinical time with their patients. This is exactly what I've feared for many years.
Operating a health system like a business might seem reasonable in a world of free market, but we are finding that it doesn't work that way. Yes, doctors need to use good business models to run their practices, but those same systems don't translate well into the arena healing.
In days past, a doctor would use testing to verify or "rule out" his/her impressions and probably diagnosis. That seems rational. However, using a test report to make the diagnosis opens the door for problems, especially when the test is inappropriate.
One example centers on the mania in medicine to "treat" high cholesterol, regardless of the patient's situation. I personally know of people in their 80s and 90s who have been prescribed a statin drug because their blood cholesterol levels were slightly elevated.
Another is the growing practice of identifying "pre" diseases (pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, pre-cancer). Some test identifies that a person MIGHT develop one of the diseases. The modern response, then, is to treat it as if it already existed. That ends up requiring drugs or surgery to treat something that has not yet happened. I recall a case where a woman had a genetic connection to breast cancer (sister), meaning there was a greater than normal statistical chance she would also get it. A nurse suggested she to have a mastectomy "just in case". Sounds crazy, but I witnessed it.
Doctors are smart. They know what's going on, but they seem helpless when it comes to changing anything. If things continue on this track, we will all suffer. Our health will not be improved and our finances will be depleted.
*Referencing an article by Nancy Walsh, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
Published: September 27, 2011
Doctors do so many tests for many of the wrong reasons; concerns about malpractice, excess reliance on the clinical significance of the test, and inadequate clinical time with their patients. This is exactly what I've feared for many years.
Operating a health system like a business might seem reasonable in a world of free market, but we are finding that it doesn't work that way. Yes, doctors need to use good business models to run their practices, but those same systems don't translate well into the arena healing.
In days past, a doctor would use testing to verify or "rule out" his/her impressions and probably diagnosis. That seems rational. However, using a test report to make the diagnosis opens the door for problems, especially when the test is inappropriate.
One example centers on the mania in medicine to "treat" high cholesterol, regardless of the patient's situation. I personally know of people in their 80s and 90s who have been prescribed a statin drug because their blood cholesterol levels were slightly elevated.
Another is the growing practice of identifying "pre" diseases (pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, pre-cancer). Some test identifies that a person MIGHT develop one of the diseases. The modern response, then, is to treat it as if it already existed. That ends up requiring drugs or surgery to treat something that has not yet happened. I recall a case where a woman had a genetic connection to breast cancer (sister), meaning there was a greater than normal statistical chance she would also get it. A nurse suggested she to have a mastectomy "just in case". Sounds crazy, but I witnessed it.
Doctors are smart. They know what's going on, but they seem helpless when it comes to changing anything. If things continue on this track, we will all suffer. Our health will not be improved and our finances will be depleted.
*Referencing an article by Nancy Walsh, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
Published: September 27, 2011
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/r3mzCa
Monday, September 26, 2011
You CAN'T avoid sucralose (Splenda).
You may want to, but you can't anymore. The stuff is in our drinking water. It was was found to be present in source water of 15 out of 19 drinking water treatment plants.
As much as I dislike sucralose, there are certainly other, more toxic substances in the water supply and they aren't being removed through standard treatments. The really sad part is that it will just continue to get worse.
What are you going to do about it?
See this Amp at http://1.usa.gov/nBELvl
Friday, September 23, 2011
Tell me how this will contain health costs
Some batches of Avastin seem to have been contaminated when the drug was transferred from the original vial to a syringe. Patients suffered and some lost their sight. The VA thinks they can "solve" the infection problem by switching to a similar drug that already comes in a pre-filled syringe. The additional cost? Approximately $1,900 dollars per dose.
Keep in mind that the VA services are funded by tax dollars. If this decision persists OUR COST per treatment just went up 3,800%
See this Amp at http://reut.rs/nhcZhl
I really don't care. Do you?
I read a Letter To The Editor today that contained the following; " America wants a strong USPS. After tornadoes and earthquakes, phones fail, electricity ends, the Internet is interrupted, but the mail will still go through."
Personally, I don't agree that America on the whole WANTS a strong USPS. We clearly want to be able to communicate effectively and quickly, and there are alternatives that work as well or better than the USPS.
Yes, the alternatives can be interrupted. So can (does) the USPS. The old belief that "the mail must go through" is passe' and patently untrue. Based on decades of real experience, I am confident the alternate systems can still be effective - even in times of disaster.
But, what about all the EMPLOYEES of the USPS who will lose their jobs? The alternative systems will need employees when they fill the hole left when USPS goes out of business. The good workers will find jobs. The bad ones may not. But we already have systems in place to support people who can't or won't work. Yes, there may be problems. Nobody, however, is guaranteed anything, let alone a job.
Personally, I don't agree that America on the whole WANTS a strong USPS. We clearly want to be able to communicate effectively and quickly, and there are alternatives that work as well or better than the USPS.
Yes, the alternatives can be interrupted. So can (does) the USPS. The old belief that "the mail must go through" is passe' and patently untrue. Based on decades of real experience, I am confident the alternate systems can still be effective - even in times of disaster.
But, what about all the EMPLOYEES of the USPS who will lose their jobs? The alternative systems will need employees when they fill the hole left when USPS goes out of business. The good workers will find jobs. The bad ones may not. But we already have systems in place to support people who can't or won't work. Yes, there may be problems. Nobody, however, is guaranteed anything, let alone a job.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/pnNtNN
Vaccination for everyone, every year, forever.
The recommendation is to START vaccinating at age 6 months.
"Our goal is to make annual vaccination a no-brainer among all age groups," Dr. William Schaffner, of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and president of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) told the briefing.
What do you think about this?
See this Amp at http://fxn.ws/r9aPr6
How is that OBAMACARE thing working for you?
I heard last evening that some study showed that about 80% of us think we aren't as well off as we were four years ago. Seems we got change we really didn't expect.
See this Amp at http://cnnmon.ie/pzPKwH
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Soy May Not Prevent Clogged Arteries
Son of a gun! Here we all have been thinking that SOY is some kind of heart-healthy "food". Most published information about it fails to mention that raw soybeans, including the immature green form, are toxic to humans.
Can you think of another "food" that is toxic in its raw form and has to be processed before human consumption?
See this Amp at http://fxn.ws/nCzLUC
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Todlers and preschoolers on SPEED.
A 2007 study reported that one preschooler in 70 was taking a psychiatric drug. I MIGHT consider that there would be a real medical need in a tiny number of babies, but, 1 in 70! Just seems wrong. Very wrong. What do you think?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/peDFO6
Why Would You Want to Lower Your Risk?
There is something unsettling about the notion of reducing my risk for a disease or a disaster. Risk is a relative term that only applies to groups. If all is held equal in a group, changing one element can increase or decrease overall risk for the group, but NOT the individuals who make up the group.
What's the point in lowering the risk of cancer by 5% for a group? If there are one thousand people in the group, that change would mean better odds for 50 people. A major problem is identifying which fifty people. Keep in mind that this is true only when every member in the group is identical to the others. Something as simple as a minor accident can change a person such that he/she no longer possesses the characteristics of the group.
If I do something to reduce my personal risk factors (eating better, for example) and the other group members do something to increase their risk (start smoking?), the group risk goes up, but mine goes down, especially if I don't start smoking.
There is an old saying about how we can never step in the same stream twice. More accurately, we can never step in the same stream once. Nothing is static and all is variable.
The concept of risk factors is bogus and should be eliminated from health discussions.
What's the point in lowering the risk of cancer by 5% for a group? If there are one thousand people in the group, that change would mean better odds for 50 people. A major problem is identifying which fifty people. Keep in mind that this is true only when every member in the group is identical to the others. Something as simple as a minor accident can change a person such that he/she no longer possesses the characteristics of the group.
If I do something to reduce my personal risk factors (eating better, for example) and the other group members do something to increase their risk (start smoking?), the group risk goes up, but mine goes down, especially if I don't start smoking.
There is an old saying about how we can never step in the same stream twice. More accurately, we can never step in the same stream once. Nothing is static and all is variable.
The concept of risk factors is bogus and should be eliminated from health discussions.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/rutoHi
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Environmental Factors Play a Major Role in Autism
Dr. Mercola offers some excellent perspective on the topic of Autism. Environmental factors and gut flora probably have a far grater impact that heredity (genetics).
Read Dr. Mercola's article and be sure to take a quality brand of probiotics EVERY DAY - twice daily when you're not feeling well.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/ruvGV8
Sunday, September 18, 2011
I'm beginning to LIKE Dr. Oz - a lot.
Here's a regular medical doctor who sees what is really going on. In a discussion about heart problems and teeth, Dr. Oz makes a poignant comment about toothpaste. He says, "Make sure your toothpaste does not contain triclosan or sodium lauryl sulfate as ingredients."
It is very difficult to find commercial toothpaste without those ingredients. However, consider SOAP. Yes, real, natural soap. Here's a link to some information on our website: http://bit.ly/pH311A
See this Amp at http://abcn.ws/r9wyjN
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Prostate surgery leads to appalling new side effect
This whole prostate thing seems to be spinning out of control. The traditional approach to prostate symptoms has always been cautious watching. Maybe that approach doesn't generate sufficient revenue. Regardless, its about time we begin to take a clear look at prostate problems and consider real alternatives to surgery, radiation, and deadly drugs.
It is unlikely that prostate cancer will kill a man. Its been said that if a man lives long enough he will die with prostate cancer, not from it, but with it. There's a huge difference. Read Dr. Douglass' article. Also take a look at a blog I posted recently http://bit.ly/ClarksProstate
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/n8M9GY
Friday, September 16, 2011
People who eat a high fiber diet and stay well hydrated are less likely to suffer with hemorrhoids, whereas people who eat processed foods will eventually feel it in the end. PUN INTENDED http://bit.ly/pCEjFp
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
You really DON'T need drugs to clear an allergy
Clean the sinus cavities with a saline rinse. Use doses of pepper spray. Don't take any drugs. After teh season ends, continue using the sinus rinse. Heck, you clean your teeth every day, don't you? Might as well clean your sinuses as well.
I posted information about this topic on our website: http://bit.ly/omgCKW
See this Amp at http://fxn.ws/qF0CC8
Friday, September 09, 2011
Flu Vaccines - a Dangerous Waste of Time?
"...children who had received the flu vaccine had three times the risk of hospitalization, as compared to children who had not received the vaccine".
What do you think?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/ohsKXm
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Still waiting on the FDA... So, what else is new?
This event happened well over a month ago (in July 2011). The agents on the phone told me they'd send a letter. I have NOT yet received anything. Should I be surprised? Concerned? Worried? Upset? Sad? Happy?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/pXmIVg
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
No clinical difference!
AstraZenica tried to prove their Crestor was better than their Lipitor. Why? Lipitor is going OFF PATENT soon and the drug seller wants to maximize their profits by selling the more expensive Crestor - still on patent. Sorry, this round goes to the cheaper, generic versions of Lipitor. Don't worry about quality, though.Almost all drugs (trade name and generic) are made by just a few companies - somewhere in Asia.
BTW, I still do not think cholesterol levels should be lowered using drugs - any of them; Crestor, Lipitor, or any of the generic statins - not even that stuff called red yeast rice.
See this Amp at http://bloom.bg/pCtlK7
Friday, September 02, 2011
What the heck is an autoimmune disease?
Nobody knows. However, one thing is for certain; if you're diagnosed with one you will be ordered to take drugs, have surgery , or expose yourself to radiation. Those are the ONLY three approaches to curing any disease, or so says our government. I disagree.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/9mULNK
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Never use dryer sheets or fabric softener.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
How do you TREAT a disease you haven't have - YET?
Medical tests are supposed to verify a diagnosis, not make a diagnosis. There is a difference. A big difference. I suggest that MOST medical testing today is useless and only separates us from our health - and our money.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/qC87VG
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
So glad to see I'm not crazy.
Yes, some people have actually suggested that taking a daily dose of probiotics is unnecessary and a real waste of money. My family and I know without a doubt that good gut health is basic for general good health. If we can't digest and absorb nutrients, our entire body suffers - even our brains. We shouldn't need supplemental probiotics, but we do. After exposing our digestive system to toxins all day, our normal flora is damaged. It needs reinforcement.
Once a day is fine most of the time. In times of stress I'd suggest two, three, or four doses every day - with clean water and on an empty stomach.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/oY1O7j
Monday, August 29, 2011
It's NOT about living a healthy, long life.
It's all about who pays for what we call "health care" and how much they'll pay for it. Here's an article about a Canadian doctor who longed to return home because there is FAR MORE time available for patients - and far less devoted to dealing with the people who pay for the "health care".
See this Amp at http://nyti.ms/odc5OB
Where will THIS money come from?
Commissions sound like a good idea - particularly for the commissioners. They are often compensated for doing what they would normally do for free. I've asked Tom Cross - but haven't had an answer yet - what this Civil War Commission will cost Illinois taxpayers.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/nAN1iL
Acetamin-o-mania
It is also unconscionable that drug makers MIX potent (useful) pain relievers with acetaminophen. Their idea is that it is less likely that someone would abuse the narcotic if its mixed with another, non-addicting drug. The fallacy in that logic is that people who truly need the pain relief are usually forced to consume acetaminophen with each dose. This is a problem for healthy people. It is a disaster for sick folks, especially those with pre-existing liver problems.
There is nothing inherently wrong with using "straight" narcotics. Mixing with a dangerous drug - acetaminophen - is unnecessary.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/qYfg3n
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Antibiotics and Obesity
It seems that more and more people are getting the message about the dangers of taking too many antibiotics. As I posted a couple of days ago, our food supply is also laced with more and more antibiotics. They are being added to feed. That means our meat supply is contaminated with antibiotic drugs - thereby delivering daily doses to all who eat meat.
Do two important things: (1) consume grass fed meat from organic farms (2) take a good probiotic supplement every day.
See this Amp at http://lat.ms/r5Otqx,0,4185617.story
Saturday, August 27, 2011
How far will they go to poison your daughter?
I am obsessively cautious about immunizations. Gardasil is particularly onerous. Despite mounting reports of dangerous side effects (over 15,000 girls have reported adverse effects) -- and deaths -- it continues to haunt us.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/mQtiQU
Friday, August 26, 2011
Gotta wonder what this will cost Illinois
Earlier today I asked Tom Cross (via Facebook) what the 17 commissioners would be paid. No response - yet. As I haven't heard of a voluntary state commission, I have to assume that our tax dollars will be given to some people so they can work on the 150th anniversary of the Civil War.
Oh well, what's a few more tax dollars to a state that's already broke?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/nAN1iL
Thursday, August 25, 2011
What kind of life is that?
The placebo effect demonstrates time and time again that belief in the power of a "sugar pill" can actually bring about improved health. In this article, improvements ran in the 50% range. That's worth noting.
If we can prove that a placebo works, we should also be able to demonstrate that believing we "have" illness would also have a significant impact on our health - in the wrong direction.
A mammogram, for example, can detect a small tumor years (10 - 15?) before the tumor reaches a size that may be dangerous. Yet, our system of care announces the presence of the tiny cancer and the patient's subconscious goes to work to "make it so". If nothing else, the patient will suffer for years with the KNOWLEDGE that she "has" cancer. What kind of life is that?
I also call the following "new diseases" to your attention; pre-diabetes, pre-cancerous lesions, osteopenia, pre-hypertension, and all those potential diseases identified with gene and DNA testing. If our unphysical self can make us feel better when we use a placebo isn't it just as likely that the same unconscious program can make us ill when we have been told we "have" something?
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/mPrzNC
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Thyroid and Cholesterol connection?
We've all been lead to believe that our bodies are made up of multiple, unique pieces. That simply isn't true. Our parts are interconnected and each communicates with and depends on all the others.
Regardless of how strongly we hold a belief, it can still bel untrue unless we can prove otherwise.
See this Amp at http://bit.ly/pLd765
Monday, August 22, 2011
hcg diet - makes me nervous, too.
I understand that many people are using hcg for weight loss, many pharmacies are preparing it, and many doctors are prescribing it. This article lists three exceptional reasons why I'm not interested in using this hormone for this purpose. (1) the weight loss is because of an exceptionally low calorie intake (2) the weight lost isn't necessarily fat (3) the hcg system fails to teach good eating habits. I'll also add that nobody yet knows the long term effects from using a pregnancy hormone in the absence of pregnancy - and even on males.
See this Amp at http://on.fb.me/mSaVY7
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