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Fibroids and Cysts – Prevention and Treatment

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Fibroids in the uterus, and cysts on the ovaries are benign (not cancerous) growths, which can cause no symptoms, mild or severe symptoms of pain, bloating and/or bleeding. Both uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts affect 75% of women. Fibroids and can range in number and size from a single growth to multiple growths, from small to large. The ovaries can have single or multiple cysts, small or large. The type of cyst that is more complicated to treat is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. The main differences are the location and texture. Cysts are fluid filled whereas fibroids are dense tissue. Both are diagnosed through Pelvic Ultrasound.

You can prevent and treat both Uterine Fibroids and Ovarian Cysts simply by understanding the cause (discussed below). Prevention is always easier. If either one has gotten to the point that reversing through lifestyle changes is unsuccessful, conventional treatment may be necessary. Conventional treatment for fibroids and cysts involve pain medication and/or hormonal suppression with Birth Control Pills. Both fibroids and cysts can require surgery. Fibroids can be treated by reducing blood supply to fibroid (embolization), myomectomy (removing fibroid), hysterectomy (removing uterus) or endometrial ablation – with heat or cold to stabilize the uterine lining.

The cause of both fibroids and ovarian cysts are similar – Estrogen Dominance and Liver overload.

Symptoms of Uterine fibroids:

  • None
  • Pressure on the bladder/rectum
  • Lower abdominal and/or lower back pain
  • Constipation/rectal pressure
  • Uterine cramping from mild to severe
  • Bleeding that can be frequent or infrequent, heavy or light, with or without cramping

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts:

  • None
  • Pressure with ovulation
  • Sharp pain in pelvic cavity if large

The main concerns with uterine fibroids are:

  • Anemia due to heavy bleeding.
  • Discomfort due to size.
  • Challenges with fertility.

The main concerns with ovarian cysts are:

  • Pain
  • Challenges with fertility

Estrogen dominance means that estrogen is high and progesterone is low. It is caused by many things, mainly by xenoestrogens. These are xeno (alien, strange) hormones. They imitate estrogen. They are found widely in PCB’s, BPA’s and Phthalates. Most specialists that study xenoestrogens regard them as serious environmental hazards that have hormonal disruptive effects on both humans. PCB – (polychlorinated biphenyl) is an organochloride pollutant. These are man-made chemicals used widely in electrical equipment (capacitors and transformers) until they were banned in 1979 due to toxic human exposures. Although declining, once in the environment, PCBs tend to be persistent in the environment. We have all been exposed to them through breathing, eating, drinking and skin contact.

These toxins store in fat tissue and are difficult to eliminate.

  • BPA – Bisphenol A, is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960’s. They are found in food and beverage containers, both plastic and metal products (as they have linings that contain BPA). Steel cans/bottles do not contain BPA. The recycling # 7 on plastic bottles contains BPA – unless it says “BPA free on it,” then the #7 is fine.
  • Phthalates – Phthalates, called “plasticizers,” are a group of industrial chemicals used to make plastics more flexible. Phthalates are everywhere – in processed foods, plastic objects like shower curtains and toys, adhesives, detergents, shampoo and many more. Hidden phthalates may be abbreviated as seen below. For more detailed information on environmental toxins please visit www.thedailygreen.com.
  • Paraen is a chemical used as a preservative in cosmetics and food. They can mimic estrogens as well and have been found in breast tumors and linked to breast cancer. Paraben can be avoided by reading labels. Any word that has “paraben” in it is a paraben. Two other ways to write parabens are Hydroxybenzoic acid and hydroxybenzoate.

Treating Estrogen Dominance

Excess estrogen in one of the main culprits in hormonal imbalance, which then can cause fibroid tissue in the uterus and disordered ovulation or ovarian cysts. One of the first things you can do to prevent and start reversing these hormonal imbalances is to stop exposing yourself to xenohormones.

Five steps to avoiding xenoestrogens:

  • Avoid plastic bottles as much as possible – never freeze, warm or reuse disposable water bottles.
  • If you use the microwave, never use plastic. Best is to not use the microwave.
  • If you eat meat or use dairy, use from grass-fed, free-range farms.
  • Use natural detergents
  • Avoid paraben in skin care products.
  • Supplement with Natural Factors Estrosense

What to expect from this product:

  • Supports healthy hormone balance (estrogen to progesterone)
  • Supports healthy breasts
  • Detoxifies the liver of xenoestrogens
  • Reduces flooding and heavy periods
  • Helps those with PCOS and ovarian cysts
  • Inhibits conversion of 2-hydorsyestrone metabolites to carcinogenic estrogens (16-hydroxyestrone)
  • Cancer-protecting plant nutrients
  • Reduces PMS symptoms
  • Supports normal PAP smears
  • Helps reduce endometriosis and fibroids

Symptoms of hormone imbalance are sparked by an imbalance of estrogen to progesterone, with estrogen being dominant. It is important to understand that there are several different forms of estrogen, with some being beneficial and others being potentially harmful. For example, synthetic estrogens present in the environment are called xenoestrogens. These toxins are found in pesticides and other chemicals and exposure to these chemicals can result in imbalanced hormone levels, menstrual cycle disruption, reduced fertility and a range of other possible effects.

Even among the body’s naturally produced hormones, there are harmful and beneficial estrogens. Extensive research in animals and in humans has shown that higher levels of one form of estrogen, called 2-hydroxyestrone is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in women, whereas higher levels of another form, called 16α-hydroxyestrone, has been associated with a significantly increased risk of breast cancer.

It is clear then that shifting the balance of estrogen in the body towards the “good” form of estrogen is highly desirable and can have many beneficial health effects. EstroSense® is a complete natural formula that helps to maintain lifelong healthy hormone balance from puberty onward. EstroSense® contains an effective combination of ingredients that have been clinically demonstrated to help promote healthy estrogen metabolism, detoxification of harmful chemicals and hormones, and the production of beneficial estrogen hormones.

EstroSense® is the ideal hormonal health partner for women using oral contraceptives and those suffering from various symptoms of hormonal imbalance which could include, breast health concerns, exposure to xenoestrogens (pesticides, herbicides and toxins), endometriosis, fibrocystic breasts, heavy/flooding periods, PMS, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and more.

Calcium-D-Glucarate – D-glucarate is a naturally occurring substance that is found in many fruits and vegetables. D-glucarate has been shown to help enhance the detoxification of toxins and carcinogens in the body. It also enhances estrogen metabolism, helping to promote healthy hormone balance.

Indole-3-Carbinol – I3C is a compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables that has been shown to promote healthy estrogen metabolism in women by helping to shift the balance of estrogen in the body towards 2-hydroxyestrone, the “good” form of estrogen. As a result, I3C can help to improve hormone balance and may also help to reduce the risk of estrogen-related cancers, like breast and cervical cancer. I3C has also been used successfully as a treatment in women with cervical dysplasia.

Broccoli Extract: Sulforaphane – Sulforaphane is another detoxification compound found in broccoli. Sulforaphane is a powerful antioxidant that can help to enhance the immune system and improve the body’s ability to detoxify and eliminate harmful chemicals and hormones. Preliminary studies also suggest that sulforaphane may be able to target and destroy early breast cancer cells.

Milk Thistle Extract – Milk Thistle is known for its liver protecting properties. This natural antioxidant works together with sulphoraphane to enhance the function of the liver, improving its ability to eliminate toxins, excess hormones and harmful forms of estrogen. As a result, healthy estrogen balance is restored, and side-effects of unbalanced hormone levels can be reduced.

Additional Antioxidants – EstroSense also contains a combination of other powerful natural antioxidants that work together to protect the body’s cells and tissues from damage, reduce inflammation and the risk of disease and help to maintain hormone balance. These antioxidants include rosemary extract, green tea extract, turmeric and lycopene. Green Tea extract, for example, has been shown to support estrogen balance, with one study showing that green tea drinkers have lower blood estrogen levels than non-drinkers.

What Is Glutathione…And Why Do You Need More of It?

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Glutathione (pronounced “gloota-thigh-own”) is probably the most important compound produced by the human body. It is made in your healthy liver, and is comprised of 3 amino acid proteins. One doctor referred to it as “the Mother of all Antioxidants,” the “Master Detoxifier,” and the “Maestro of the Immune System.”

This is not an exaggeration. Glutathione performs all of these functions, and at the very highest level. It blocks oxidative stress, caused by free radicals that can damage our DNA and organs. It can remove dangerous heavy metals, and toxic chemicals from your body. Your body cannot make enough white blood cells without glutathione. White blood cells protect us from disease causing bacteria, viruses, and fungal infections. It has been shown to stimulate Natural Killer Cell activity, which is especially useful in destroying cancer cells.

Unfortunately, normal aging, stress, poor diet, or being diagnosed with a chronic disease, can mean that your levels could be as much as 50% lower than that of a younger healthier person. There are, however, reliable ways to boost your levels:

  1.  Take non-denatured whey protein powder such as “WHEY FACTORS” by Natural Factors. It contains adequate amounts of the amino acids needed to synthesize glutathione in your body.
  2. A unique slow melt activated tablet has been developed in France. It has been shown to boost the useable form of Glutathione in the body by 230%. Terry’s Nutrition markets this exciting new product.
  3. “SETRIA” is a trademarked supplement comprised of the triple peptide formula that makes Glutathione. Blood testing at the 6th month showed a 35% increase in Glutathione levels in certain immune cells.

Many nutrients are used to make adequate Glutathione in the body. That’s why a good multi-vitamin and omega 3 fish oil should be taken daily. Moderate exercise and diet can help, too. Certain foods such as asparagus, broccoli,cauliflower, kale, cabbage, onions and garlic are to be included in the diet. Try taking some of these supplements to support your Glutathione levels. This could be the most important thing you could do for your health.

Preventing and Treating Colds and Flu for the Fall-Winter Season

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The fall-winter season is here, and the cold/flu product ads have begun to appear on TV. This should be a signal to begin your own seasonal prevention program. Let’s start with trying to get 7-8 hours of quality sleep. Sleep helps to “recharge” your body and maintain strong immunity. Paying close attention to your diet can help, too. Consuming just one serving of a sugary treat can lower your immune system for about 5 hours.

Starting with Halloween, and continuing with the Thanksgiving thru Christmas holiday seasons, an awful lot of sugar is consumed in the name of traditional holiday treats such as candy, various types of cookies, cakes, pies, and alcohol. Combine this with shorter, colder days, and the stress that is associated with the holiday season, and I can understand why so many people get sick.

Supplementing your diet with some key nutritionals can also help keep you well. Start with a whole-food multi-vitamin, which will contain vitamin A for mucus membranes as well as vitamins C, D, and Zinc for overall immunity. Speaking of vitamins, Vitamin D has really established itself as the true immune vitamin (along with vitamin C). Adults should get 5000 i.u. per day and students should aim for at least 2000 i.u. If you’re adding extra vitamin C to your diet, take 500 mg. with breakfast and 500 mg. with your evening meal.

Ever heard of PROBIOTICS? Well, you should have, because they are the “talk of the town” in the nutrition world. 70% of your immune cells are found in the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that help maintain gut integrity and boost immunity. There are over 200 different cold (Rhinovirus) viruses, and they are always around just waiting to strike. If one should strike, then try this trick: Put 8-10 drops of Hydrogen Peroxide (using a dropper) in each ear. Laying on your side, put the drops in each ear, and let them “fester” for about 7 or 8 minutes. Repeat in 24 hours if necessary. This should be tried within 12 hours of noticing symptoms. I did this three different times, and it worked twice (two out of three ain’t bad). This is safe to do, so you have nothing to lose. In the event that it doesn’t, here are some of the best “tried and true” products that you will find anywhere:

OIL OF OREGANO… I’m not talking about the kitchen spice . I’m referring to the stuff grown in countries in the Mediterranean region that contains a minimum of 70% Carvacrol (the active ingredient, along with Phenol). It’s available in softgels, capsules, or liquid tincture. It can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Speaking of killing viruses, COLOSTRUM is the thick, yellow pre-milk fluid produced by all female mammals just after giving birth. Supplements are dried to a powder (they are derived from bovine) and put in capsules, or taken as a powder. Colostrum contains every known immune factor, and a PUB-MED study states that it is three times more affective against the flu than the vaccine. It is very well researched, and to date there are reportedly over 5000 scientific papers published on Colostrum. It’s a personal favorite of mine, and I take it every day of the year.

Standardized OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT has a long history as an effective anti-bacterial, dating back to the Romans and Greeks. Later studies are validating its effectiveness against viruses and fungus. Oleuropein is considered the active ingredient, so look for a product that mentions this on the label.

SILVER HYDROSOL is the preferred form of Colloidal Silver. Size does matter, and the particles are extremely small (nano size), allowing better penetration into the body. This means the product can be effective using only 10 parts per million of silver, making it extremely safe. Silver Hydrosol can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Take orally by the teaspoon, swishing it around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before swallowing. Do not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes.

UMCKA is a very effective cold and flu remedy with a funny sounding name. The main ingredient is Pelargonium Sidoides, a medicinal plant that grows in South Africa. It has undergone extensive testing and has consistently shown to reduce the severity of all cold (respiratory) symptoms, and shorten the duration of the infection. I tried it several times, and it delivered as promised. It reduced my symptoms, and shortened the duration of the cold to about 3 days (instead of the typical 7-10 days).

Keep some of these products at home in your medicine cabinet, so you don’t have to run out and buy them when you’re feeling sick. Jumping on a cold when you first notice symptoms is key in defeating the illness and returning to health. Try several of these recommendations and be illness-free this winter.

 (This blog is written by Mike Warther, a health amike-warther01nd nutrition consultant at Dover Healthy Alternatives)

Welcome to Our “Health Kicks” Blog

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Dover Healthy Alternatives was started September 1st, 2000 by Connie Ciekanski. We started in Downtown Dover and moved to our present location in May of 2003. We currently employ 10 people, some of the staff have been here from the downtown days. We are truly passionate about helping our customers!

We hope you enjoy our new website. We plan to highlight different supplements, a blog with Mike Warther, offering coupons, and keeping it active so you want to keep reading!

Dover Healthy Alternatives is a complete health food store. We offer herbs, vitamins, cosmetics, body care, natural make-up and skin care, bulk and bag teas, natural foods, sports nutrition, protein bars, salt lamps, homeopathics, essential oils, books, cleaning products, animal supplements and more. We also have a lunch cafe and smoothie bar which are quite popular with the customers of Dover Healthy!

We would like emails from our customers on products they have benefited from so we can create a testimonial page.

As always…..Thank You For Your Business!!!!