May 2013
Natural Nutmeg Connecticut's Resource For Essential Living
Are You Almost As Good As Your Dog Bernie Siegel, MD
Menopause: A Hormone Balancing Act Deanna M. Cherrone, MD
Infertility Treatment with Acupuncture and Natural Medicine Helene Pulnik, ND, L.Ac
Food: Medicine or Poison
Desmond Ebanks, MD
Novel Approaches to Lyme Disease
Kenneth R. Hoffman, L.Ac NaturalNutmeg.com
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Are you STILL in pain? effective treatment can be hard to find. Doctors and patients are frustrated by ineffective oral medications. At Pioneer Health, 95% of new patients dramatically reduce their pain using a customized pain relief gel. WHY? Because WE take the time to find the right BLEnd that:
• Decreases your dosage of medication • Increases the preciseness of your therapy • Reduces side effects of common pain meds I injured my lower back and suffered immense pain and immobilization. After working with Gene and my doctor to create a customized pain formula, the pain was gone within two weeks! I was even able to make a 22 hour car trip to Alabama with no pain and it was as if I never hurt my back. I hope more doctors will listen to their patients and prescribe this more often. Pam S.
Call noW for a free pain consultation (Reg. $200)
(888) 268-9379
In network with most insurance plans Gene Gresh, RPh
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Natural Nutmeg May 2013
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR
JOINT
ARTHRITIS Arthritis pain can be annoying at best, and crippling at worst. It can affect your every move, and even keep you from the activities you love. But there is hope. Valley Sports Physicians is southern New England’s leader in non-surgical treatment for osteoarthritis (the wear-and-tear kind). With over 18 years of performing Prolotherapy injections, 5 years of Platelet-Rich Plasma treatments, and 2 years of Stem Cell treatments, we have more experience than anyone in these cutting edge treatments. And, unlike most practices, we do ALL of our injections under ultrasound guidance to insure safe and accurate treatment. In fact, we are nationally recognized leaders in musculoskeletal ultrasound. Before you consider surgery for your arthritis, consider a consultation with us! SPECIALIZING IN THE TREATMENT OF: • • • •
ROTATOR CUFF INJURIES TENNIS ELBOW CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME PLANTAR FASCIITIS
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ACHILLES TENDINITIS ANKLE SPRAINS & INSTABILITY JOINT ARTHRITIS HIP & BACK PAIN
PAUL TORTLAND, D.O.
ALBERT KOZAR, D.O. DAVID MAGNUSSEN, P.A. TEAM PHYSICIANS: UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD, AVON H.S., BLOOMFIELD H.S., GRANBY H.S.
VALLEY SPORTS PHYSICIANS & ORTHOPEDIC MEDICINE, INC.
AVON & GLASTONBURY, CT 860.675.0357 WWW.JOCKDOCTORS.COM
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Featured Content
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Infertility Treatment with Acupuncture and Natural Medicine Helene Pulnik, ND, L.Ac 10
O
ur mission is to provide valuable insight, information and resources that will allow our readers to maintain a healthy, active, sustainable lifestyle. Natural Nutmeg contains timely information on natural health, complementary and alternative medicine, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, and the products and services that support good health.
Menopause: A Hormone Balancing Act Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 12
PUBLISHERS
Novel Approaches to Lyme Disease Kenneth R. Hoffman, L.Ac 18
Dr. Diane Hindman Chris Hindman Publisher@naturalnutmeg.com
Editor-in-Chief
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Deb Percival Deb@naturalnutmeg.com
ADVERTISING SALES
Food: Medicine or Poison Desmond Ebanks, MD 22
Advertising@naturalnutmeg.com
ADVISORY BOARD
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Departments The BUZZ 6
Ann Aresco, N.D. Deanna M. Cherrone, M.D. Debra Gibson, ND Lauren Gouin, ND Kenneth Hoffman, LAc, CCH David Johnston, DO Vicki Kobliner, MS, RD, CD-N Donald Piccoli, DC Paul Tortland, DO
BERNIE 8 Natural Nutmeg Magazine
Dish 17
P.O. Box 447, Avon, CT 06001 Ph. (860)206-9500 Fax (860)263-8505
Prevention 24
In keeping with our concern for the environment, Natural Nutmeg is proudly printed on recycled paper with soy based inks.
SELF 26
Natural Nutmeg is a free publication supported solely by our advertisers and distributed throughout Connecticut. Please call for a location near you. (860) 206-9500 or email to publisher@naturalnutmeg.com.
REMEDIES 34 Happenings 37 Resources 41 4
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© 2007-13 by Natural Nutmeg, LLC. All rights reserved. Parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that permission be obtained in writing. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your feedback.
publisher'sletter
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s we are now one third of the way through the year, I felt it was important to reinforce the importance of reviewing the resolutions and goals that you set at the beginning of the year. The key thing that makes goal setting both exciting and important are the results achieved because of it. But, the ultimate reason for setting goals is to entice you to become the person it takes to achieve them, for what you become, you’ll soon find is so much more important than the goal itself. What many of you may find on your quest to accomplish a goal, is that it loses its appeal after the hard work sets in. The day to day things that you are required to do in order to move closer to your goal may be difficult, unrewarding and monotonous. It is here where you find out what you are truly made of and if you want the goal or end result bad enough. At this point you should go back to your original list of goals, review each one and make a note of the progress you have made towards it – if you haven’t already been doing that on a weekly basis. Sometimes it’s hard to see the progress on a day to day basis, but after you take a step back and see what you’ve accomplished in the last four months, you may be pleasantly surprised. Take some time to determine if each goal still holds momentum, energy and juice for you. Do you still want to accomplish this goal strongly enough that you will continue to make the commitment to do what needs to be done on a daily and weekly basis? Do you get excited and motivated when you think about who or where you will be when you reach this goal? Will accomplishing this goal put you on a path to achieving an even bigger dream? If the answer to these questions is yes – fantastic! If the answer to any of those questions is no, then something has either changed for you or you really weren’t committed to the goal in the first place. Either way, it’s ok. The most important thing is that you recognize this now and go back to the drawing board to create a new goal. Then the work begins again. Sometimes it takes many revisits and revisions to get really clear on which goals are going to get you to where you ultimately want to be. This is a perfectly normal part of the process, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you find that your original goals just don’t hold enough energy for you. It just means you need to spend more time thinking about what you want for your life and how you are going to get there. The achievement of every one of your goals is a direct result of the power of thought, purpose, and potential. A goal is more than a thought in your head. It’s a profound message about who you are and what you are capable of. Begin by visualizing your goal and continue with that image until completion. Go there in your thoughts and your body will follow. In health and happiness,
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The Buzz Special Presentation at TGI Featuring Caroline Myss
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aroline Myss, one of the world’s leading voices in spirituality, health, human consciousness, energy healing, and medical intuition, will offer a special lecture to students in The Graduate Institute’s Master of Arts in Integrative Health and Healing this spring – a program that explores mind-body approaches to health and wellness. As part of her teaching engagement, Myss will also offer a rare public presentation on Friday, May 31 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, with a limited number of tickets open to the general public. The event is sponsored by The Graduate Institute and held at Yale University, Sheffield Sterling Strathcona Hall (SSS), Room 114 on Prospect Street in New Haven. This presentation will provide a thoughtful exploration of health, wellness, spirituality, current events, relationships, and the environment through the lens of Myss’ body of work in medical intuition, healing, archetypes and mystical wisdom. Here is your chance to hear one of the most powerful and inspirational visionaries of our time! Tickets are $50 each and may be purchased through The Graduate Institute at www.learn.edu/myss. Call (203) 874-4252 or write to Leslie Cahill at Cahill@learn.edu for more information. See ad on page 2.
Expand Consciousness and Learn a Transformational Healing Modality in a New Master’s Degree Program
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asters in Pastoral Counseling Offered by the Hartford Family Institute in affiliation with the Graduate Theological Foundation Program starts September, 2013 The Hartford Family Institute is the first east-coast location to partner with the Graduate Theological Foundation to offer a Master’s Degree is Pastoral Counseling (MPC) with concentrations in Integrative Healing or Somatic Expressive Movement Therapy. No religious belief or affiliation is necessary to be part of the program. The program targets students with a Bachelor’s degree who want to study and expand their skills in the art of healing – such as Nurses, Massage Therapists, Yoga Teachers, Personal Trainers, Movement Therapists, Energy Healers or others who want to become healers. During the two-year program, students will develop a strong foundation in healing skills and find their own unique connection to embodied spirituality while integrating theory, skill, self-awareness and integrity. With a deep commitment to their own growth, graduate practitioners will be able to provide an energetic invitation for clients to develop a foundation that supports the path to well-being. The curriculum is psycho/spiritual in nature, based on the theories of In-Depth Body Psychotherapy and Subtle Energy Healing. Each year the program consists of an opening weekend, 27 Wednesday evenings, five weekend workshops and a five-day residential workshop. For more information, visit HartfordFamilyInstitute.com, call 860-236-6009, or like us at www.Facebook.com/HartfordFamilyInstitute.
Re:Create CT: An Up-Cycle & Green Living Event in Elizabeth Park
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he CT Holistic Chamber of Commerce presents Re:Create CT; an up-cycle, and green living event that will take place on Saturday, May 4th, from 10am-4pm in Elizabeth Park, West Hartford. It will be the destination event of the year for like-minded people, both business and consumers whose commitment and purpose is to foster a healthier community. Free to the public. Re:Create CT will have three distinct elements, all tied together by the “green” theme. An artisan marketplace will provide a fun and unique shopping experience with artists who specialize in upcycling, re-purposing, and using eco-friendly materials. Re:Create will feature a number of Farmers’ Market type vendors and specialty food producers from around the Hartford County; as well as info on where and when the popular Markets are open so you can have access to fresh and local food for your family. There will also be nutritionists and experts on site talking about solutions and sampling recipes for food allergies and dietary preferences. Meet healers, practitioners, therapists, instructors, and experts; all on site to guide you to a healthier, happier you. There will also be live music, interactive yoga and Zumba classes, children’s activities, and fresh eats from local food trucks. Elizabeth Park is a beautiful backdrop to this event with its lush greenery and nationally acclaimed gardens. This event is free to the public, and you can view a full list of vendors, sponsors, classes, and activities on our website; www. recreateCT.com.
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Desperate Husbands Reveal All On May 4th At CT Women’s Confidential
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r. Diane Hindman and Jeff Forte present an empowering halfday workshop entitled “CT Women’s Confidential: A Tell All Expose Event,” where they will teach attendees how to navigate a successful relationship in the midst of today’s ultra-busy lifestyles, while a panel of men reveal what it takes. In this informational and interactive workshop, attendees will learn the 7 secrets all successful marriages and relationships have in common, to discover the soulmate they didn’t know existed in their partner, and find out what men really want in a relationship but probably won’t ever disclose! “Men rarely share what they really need from their partners and this event will give rare insight into the things that men crave the most but will never ask for,” says Jeff Forte. Dr. Hindman holds a PhD in exercise physiology, is a certified Empowerment and Dream Coach®,and the publisher of Natural Nutmeg Magazine. Jeff Forte, author, speaker, Certified Marriage Educator, and Certified Strategic Interventionist is the founder of PEAK Results Coaching in Glastonbury, CT. Workshops will be held on Saturday, May 4th at the Stamford Hilton in Stamford, CT and Saturday, June 8th at the Farmington Marriott, both 9-12pm. The day will be jam-packed with practical strategies for success, do-it-yourself take home exercises, pole dancing demos and chair massage. Register for only $97 and receive your exclusive Marriage Miracle swag bag (valued at over $100) and be entered to win one of many exciting prizes. For more information or to register, visit www.ctwomensconfidential.eventbrite.com or www.ctwomensconfidential.com. See ad on page 43.
Integrative Health Caribbean Cruise Conference Rescheduled
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he OxyGenesis Institute’s Evolving Conscious Health Community Cruise to the Caribbean has been rescheduled for November 2-9, 2013. The infamous Dr. Norm Shealy will be teaching several classes in November, as will Dorothy Martin-Neville, PhD, Robban Sica, M.D., and a number of other excellent holistic doctors, performers and speakers. New sponsors include Natural Nutmeg, The Holistic Chamber of Commerce, and the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA), which will be providing nationally accredited CNEs for nurses. In addition, AHNA’s president Glenda Christiaens, PhD, RN, has joined the cruise team as Director of Programming and Master of Ceremonies. Once again, the non-profit OxyGenesis Institute is keeping the price very low, and has even arranged a special discount for Natural Nutmeg readers. Enter coupon code “NNutmeg” for $100.00 discount when registering by April 30, 2013. Visit www.MyHolisticCruise.com for details and/or contact cruise director Lois Grasso directly at 860-322-0706 or info@oxygenesis.org.
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Bernie
By Bernie Siegel, MD
Are You Almost as Good as Your Dog?
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here is a story about a boy who is willing to give his life, with his parents’ permission, to save another and bursts into joyful laughter when they are about to kill him. What did he tell his parents to get them to agree? Now most high school students feel their parents would agree without them asking for permission. That’s sad but true. The boy said, “Consider this; sooner or later my body will perish at any rate but if it perishes without love, which the wise declare is the only thing of permanence, of what use will it have been? What greater merit can my body reap than the love of this act?” And his parents agree. When his parents are holding his arms and legs and he is about to be slain what was his last prayer? “Let me be born again and again on the wheel of rebirth so again and again I may offer this body for the benefit of others.” It’s the age-old message that we are here to serve and not be served. Last but not least what did he know about life that would allow him to burst into joyful laughter at that moment? I feel he knows that we are here to perform acts of love and serve in a way that we choose. No one else should be deciding how you live and what you do with your life. It is not about the years you are alive but what you do with them. I know children who are immortal through their efforts to help find a cure for the disease they died of. Those who survived them continue their efforts and they live on through their acts. I think animals understand this better than people. I may add in another story a young man is asked, by the vet who is about to euthanize his dog, why he thinks animals have shorter lives than we do. The boy answers that they know about love, kindness and forgiveness and don’t need all the time we do to learn about them. Our pets teach us about the importance of connections and that is really the reason we are here and given bodies to perform acts of love and compassion. When you pet a dog your oxytocin and serotonin levels rise. These are the bonding hormones that rise after a woman gives birth. Some examples of the benefit of the presence of pets are increased longevity in nursing homes, decreased truancy in schools and decreased violence in prisons. One study showed that 30% of single women met the man they married while walking their dog and another study showed that if you went home to a house with a dog, after having a heart attack, the mortality rate after twelve months was close to 6% but if no dog was present it was closer to 30%. It isn’t just about pets it is about meaning in our work and lives. Most people do not like their jobs because they have to interact with people. Yet when you see the people as giving your life meaning and that you are here to serve them with love your life changes and everyone benefits. It’s no accident that women live longer than men and married men longer than single men with the same cancers. Married men also have a lower incidence of lung cancer than single men who smoke the same amount. So what is protecting the married men and
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women? One oncologist suggested that women must be protected by female hormones in some way. I then suggested that the married men were protected by sleeping with female hormones. Just kidding. What protects them are their relationships. A recent study of loneliness shows it affects the genes, which control your immune response. Lonely people are more likely to have viral and inflammatory diseases and cancer. Our lives and our health are inter-related so when your life has meaning Monday morning becomes less of a threat to your health. When you ask adults what day of the week is bad for their health they all say, Monday. Right, there are more suicides, strokes, illnesses and heart attacks on Monday. When you ask kids what day of the week is bad for your health they yell out Saturday and Sunday. Why, because they think running around and getting tired makes them susceptible to disease. They are wrong. They are burning up and adults are burning out. We need a new life and all they need is a nap. Many of you have seen the list, which appeared many years ago in an Ann Landers column. Here are some elements of it; If you can get going without pep pills, conquer tension without medical help, relax without liquor, sleep without the aid of drugs, resist boring people with your troubles, eat the same food every day and be grateful for it, resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend, face the world without lies and deceit, take criticism without resentment and say honestly that deep in your heart you have no prejudice against any race, religion or politics then my friend you are almost as good as your dog. So what do I ask of all of you from here on? Just follow my advice and when in doubt as to how to act or behave ask...WWLD. Yes, What Would Lassie Do? Bernie runs a Woodbridge Cancer Support group on the second and fourth Tuesday evenings of each month and a Mind, Body, Health Support Group on the first Tuesday evening of every month at Coachman’s Square, Bradley Road, Woodbridge, CT. Contact: Lucille Ranciato at 203-288-2839 or email her at lranciato@yahoo.com or email Bernie at bugsyssiegel@sbcglobal.net. Wisdom of the Ages, a special place to nurture your spiritual side. It's filled with items to calm the mind, heal the body & empower your spirit. They also provide massages & monthly meditation classes. Wisdom of the Ages is owned by Bernie's son & daughter- in-law, Keith & Jane Siegel. Located at 1408 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury. Please call for info or to register for Bernie's group. (860) 651-1172, www.wisdomoftheages.biz. See ad on page 7.
Healing With Salt in Connecticut’s First Himalayan Salt Cave
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hat’s pink, weighs 90,000 pounds, and was delivered to 945 Farmington Avenue in West Hartford recently? Himalayan salt, which now covers the walls and floor of West Hartford’s first Himalayan Salt Cave in “Elements,” a brand new, full-service spa. Inspired by the natural salt caves of Europe, long-used for healing, the cave and spa are the creation of owner Sarah Howes, who has designed a full spa menu featuring vichy shower treatments, soaking tub cures, holistic skin and body services, and a complete massage-therapy menu, in addition to salt therapy in the Himalayan Salt Cave. Dr. Margaret Smiechowski, aka world-renowned cave builder, placed solid salt onto the walls and ceiling of the chamber, and finely ground salt on the floor creating a unique and healthy underground environment.
What can salt therapy do for you? Alchemists have referred to salt as “the fifth element”—besides water, earth, air and fire—because salt’s qualities were comparable only to ether, the actual fifth element. These ionized minerals help the body maintain homeostasis; internal stability. Without this proper chemical and ionic balance in the body, the immune system is compromised, resulting in susceptibly to asthma, dizziness, migraines, nervousness, anxiety, heart issues, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, skin disorders & lack of oxygenation of cells. Treating these ailments in an ionized salt cave environment is known as halotherapy. The cave reproduces the unique microclimate found in Europe’s and Asia’s natural salt caves. This form of therapy has been found to be extremely effective in treating a variety of disorders/diseases such as: • Allergic Rhinopathy or Hay Fever • Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis • Chronic ear-nose-throat illnesses • Circadian Dysrhythmia (Jet Lag) • General depression and anxiety • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) • Viral Infections
• Coughs, Colds, Sinusitis • Cystic Fibrosis • Ear Infections • Psoriasis • Smoker’s cough • COPD
The electro-smog of positively charged ions disturbs the balance between positively and negatively charged ion particles in and around our bodies. Only thirty seconds on a cell phone is enough to open up our blood-brain-barrier, a natural barrier that protects our brain from toxins, for eight hours. (www.himalayancrystalsalt.com) The Salt Cave’s neutralizing effects on man-made pollution and general healing properties are well known in allopathic medicine as well as in naturopathic medicine. A hospital just outside of Krakow, Poland was carved out of an expansive salt deposit, from seven hundred and forty feet below ground, and specifically designed for asthmatics and those with lung disorders and chronic allergies. The birth of salt rooms throughout Europe and the United States is the result of recognition of these healing effects experienced in salt chambers. Salt is anti-bacterial, mucolytic & anti-inflammatory and this is why halotherapy was practiced by monks, who practiced meditation in the salt caves of the Himalayas to cure respiratory and skin ailments, as well as mental lethargy. Salt caves, man-made and natural alike, create an environment which promotes general wellness and healing, making it the perfect therapy for everyone, especially because there are no known contraindications for this form of therapy. In addition, the Himalayan Pink Salt crystals that form Elements’ salt room contain the full spectrum of 84 minerals and trace elements, just like Mother Earth intended; unrefined, unprocessed raw salt that our bodies and minds inherently understand and welcome as much as a walk on the beach. Our subconscious mind instinctively wants to return to the specific vibrational salinity of the ocean to recharge and regenerate. “It was only two hundred and fifty years ago, with the advent of industrialization, that we initiated our disconnection from nature and her ways. Fortunately, we are witnessing a trend to return back to natural, holistic methods for living and caring for our body, including a shift back to utilizing natural salts in this process.” Excerpted from the book Water and Salt by Peter Ferreria As a complement to the salt cave and spa, Elements offers meditation in the salt cave as well as spa parties and salt parties, Tequila and wine tastings, crystal bowl healings, and a full range of retail from salt to skin care, lamps, candles, bath preparations and more. Salt Cave sessions are 45 minutes for $45. Call to book your Halotherapy, 860-231-8011. www.5elements4u.com. See ad on page 31. NaturalNutmeg.com
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Infertility Treatment with Acupuncture and Natural Medicine
By Helene Pulnik, ND, L.Ac
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he fertility rate in the United States has been declining for the past few decades. The fertility rate is the number of children an average woman bears over the course of her life. The replacement rate is 2.1. If the average woman has more children than that, population grows. Today, America’s total fertility rate is 1.93, according to the latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; it hasn’t been above the replacement rate in a sustained way since the early 1970s. Infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant after a year or more of sperm insemination or well-timed, unprotected vaginal intercourse. Infertility may be a temporary or a permanent condition; this depends on the available treatments, the cause, and the fertility of the partner at any particular point in time. Infertility is often incorrectly considered “the woman’s problem”. To improve the couple’s chances of conceiving a child together, both the man and the woman should be evaluated, and treated, if necessary. Because conception is a complicated process, it depends upon several factors.
Causes of Infertility There are many potential causes for infertility or reproductive problems. Chronic illnesses, as well as their treatments, can lead to fertility problems. Illnesses like diabetes and hypothyroidism can cause fertility problems. Insulin, antidepressants, and thyroid hormones may lead to irregular menstrual cycles. Premature ovarian failure has become a common cause of infertility in younger women, often diagnosed as “unexplained infertility”. Environmental toxins and xenoestrogens in foods are known to cause hormone disruption, free radical damage to both ovaries in women, and sperm production in men. Certain toxins such as phthalates may be linked to genital abnormalities in boys. Products that contain phthalates include food packaging, cosmetics, makeup, soaps, fragrances, shampoos, hairspray, nail polish, pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, building materials, vinyl flooring, paints, adhesives, detergents, solvents, lubricating oils, plastic bags, garden hoses, automobiles, children’s toys, modeling clay, glow sticks, cleaning products, and as inert ingredients in insecticides. In many instances phthalates are not identified on product labels. Forty percent of infertility can be due to male factors, and acupuncture also treats male partners of women trying to conceive. 10
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Medication used to treat peptic ulcers or hypertension can cause male factor infertility, including problems with sperm production or their ability to fertilize the egg. In men, sperm concentration went from 72 million/ml in 2001 to 52 million/ml in 2011. When sperm concentration drops below 40 million/ml conception becomes difficult. Researchers agree that diet, lifestyle and exposure to chemicals are causing the worldwide decline. Fertility issues are environmental issues. Couples experiencing difficulty conceiving may be referred to a fertility specialist for evaluation. Typically, blood testing, genetic testing and sperm testing are done to determine if there are any medical or hormonal abnormalities that need to be treated.
Medical Treatments Currently, there are several medical treatments for infertility performed by MDs who specialize in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). These treatments are typically hormones to induce ovulation, IUI or intrauterine insemination, which is a procedure in which sperm are placed directly into the uterine cavity near the time of ovulation and IVF, or in-vitro fertilization, which is a procedure that involves retrieving eggs and sperm from the bodies of the male and female partners and placing them together in a laboratory dish to enhance fertilization. Fertilized eggs are then transferred several days later into the female partner’s uterus where implantation and embryo development will hopefully occur as in a normal pregnancy. Success rates with IUI can vary from 5% to 20% for a single cycle, depending on the age and health of the couple. With several IUI cycles, the conception rate can be even higher. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the success rate of conception with IVF is 10%-35%, again depending on the age and health status of the couple. Both IUI and IVF procedures can cost several thousand dollars per cycle or treatment, and are not always covered by insurance.
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture From the viewpoint of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and Naturopathic Medicine, other factors contributing to infertility include imbalances in the energy meridians of the body, toxic overload, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, stress, and lack of proper sleep. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are affordable therapies that have been used safely and effectively alongside with IUI and IVF, as well as a stand-alone treatment for infertility. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve the success rate of IVF by 40%-60%. The typical cost for an Acupuncture session is only $85.00.
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help improve fertility and the success of IVF in a number of ways: 1. Improve the function of the ovaries to produce better quality eggs. 2. Restore hormonal balance and blood flow to the ovaries to produce a large number of follicles. 3. Increase blood flow to the uterus to increase thickness of the uterine lining. 4. Reduce stress, increase relaxation and improve sleep. 5. Lessen the side effects of drugs used in IUI and IVF. 6. Balances the immune system. 7. Improves sperm count, motility and morphology.
Using proven Acupuncture techniques, Chinese herbal medicine, detoxification, nutritional counseling, nutritional supplementation and stress reduction can help to restore balance and overall wellness. Restoring balance allows the body’s hormones and natural cycles to become more regular, and increases the body’s response to IUI and IVF, thus improving fertility. Traditional Acupuncture involves inserting extremely thin, sterile, stainless steel, disposable needles into specific points on the surface of the skin, restoring balance to the body, mind and spirit along with the correction of infertility-related imbalances and deficiencies. This age-old system of medicine has stood the test of thousands of years and yet continues to rise above and improve health even in our modern western culture. This sophisticated yet subtle method of treatment is so effective because of its focus on each individual’s particular needs. At the same time, acupuncture is a very relaxing and rejuvenating treatment. Dr. Helene Pulnik is a board-certified, licensed Naturopathic Physician and Licensed Acupuncturist. She is also a Registered Pharmacist and holds a Master’s Degree in Human Nutrition. Integrating the wisdom of proven acupuncture techniques and natural medicine, Dr. Pulnik treats couples by supporting the body’s natural cycles to enhance fertility. Dr. Pulnik provides Acupuncture, detoxification, herbal and nutritional counseling for infertile couples. See ad on page 23.
Developed by Hartford Family Institute in affiliation with the Graduate Theological Foundation
With Concentrations in Integrative Healing or Somatic Expressive Therapy
Come to a 1/2 day HFI workshop to get a feel for the teaching style.
For people who want to expand their consciousness and are interested in learning a healing modality that allows for transformation at the core of experience. Graduates receive a master’s in pastoral counseling (MPC) from GTF.
Program begins September 2013 For more information visit HartfordFamilyInstitute.com or call 860-236-6009 Enrollment is limited, Call Now! NaturalNutmeg.com
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Menopause:
A Hormone Balancing Act By Deanna M. Cherrone, MD
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enopause is not a dis-ease. It is a natural transition that occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs. Women are not meant to be fertile for their entire lives so when a woman reaches her late forties or early fifties her body produces less estrogen and progesterone. When she has had no period for one year she is considered post-menopausal and no longer able to bear children. Surgical menopause occurs when a woman has had both of her ovaries removed.
Estrogen and Progesterone Let’s examine the menstrual cycle and the role of estrogen and progesterone in this monthly event. Estrogen and progesterone are hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers released from the glands of the endocrine system that affect the functioning of every cell in the body. The ovaries, testes, adrenals, thyroid, pituitary and hypothalamus are all part of this intricate, interconnected system. Because of the complex interrelationship between these glands when one gland is out of balance it can upset the balance of other glands. Progesterone and estrogen, like all of the steroid hormones, are made from cholesterol. As a building block for our hormones, cholesterol is essential to our well being. It is not the enemy. When a patient has high cholesterol it is important to determine the cause of that high cholesterol. Hormone imbalance, toxicity, nutritional deficiencies and an underactive thyroid are some of the contributing factors to high cholesterol. Arbitrarily lowering cholesterol with statin drugs without examining these causes could be harmful. The body produces three different estrogens: estradiol, estriol and estrone. In a woman’s body estrogen is produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands and fat cells. The more fat cells a woman has the more estrogen she will produce. Estrogen is responsible for the growth and development of the female sex organs (breasts, uterus and ovaries) as she goes through puberty. Once she has reached menarche and has begun menstruating, estrogen causes the uterine lining, also known as the endometrium, to grow and thicken each month so that it is ready to receive a fertilized egg. To assist in the success of fertilization, estrogen promotes water retention and fat storage. Once a month an egg is released from a follicle of either ovary and travels down the Fallopian tube hoping to be fertilized. The ruptured follicle has an important job in that it is needed to produce progesterone for the next two weeks in preparation for pregnancy. The progesterone from the follicle functions to maintain the uterine lining until implantation occurs. If the egg implants and pregnancy occurs the uterine lining takes over continued production of progesterone. If there is no implantation, the follicle stops producing progesterone and the uterine lining is shed during menstruation. Progesterone has some other essential functions besides its role in pregnancy. It is important in new bone formation, increasing libido, normalizing blood clotting and regulating blood pressure as it is able to function as a natural diuretic. It maintains the myelin sheath which insulates nerves, is involved in blood sugar regulation and it 12
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utilizes fat for energy. It is a natural anti-depressant. It can protect against breast cysts. It can help restore cell oxygen levels and proper zinc copper balance in the body and prevent breast and endometrial cancer. Progesterone helps counteract the negative effects of estrogen; therefore, the body needs adequate tissue levels of this hormone for optimal health. Progesterone is also produced by the ovaries. It is often referred to as an upstream hormone. This means that it is required to make all of the other downstream hormones including cortisol, aldosterone, the three estrogens and testosterone. Because of its place in the hormone cascade, progesterone can often get “used up” to make these downstream hormones and then it is not around to balance the effects of estrogen. This state of excessive or unopposed estrogen in the body is called estrogen dominance.
Estrogen Dominance Estrogen dominant symptoms include: PMS, depression, mood swings, headaches (including migraines), blood clotting, increased risk of stroke and heart attack, decreased libido, impaired blood sugar regulation, imbalance of zinc and copper, namely, too much copper and too little zinc, reduced oxygen levels in all cells, and thyroid dysfunction. Normal levels of estrogen and progesterone in a woman’s body help prevent excess or abnormal growth in tissues sensitive to the effects of estrogen. For example, without proper estrogen/progesterone balance (estrogen dominance) fibroids may grow in the uterus, cysts may grow in the breasts or ovaries and cancer of the uterus, breast or ovary may develop. Having too much estrogen in the body is the result of many factors. These include consumption of processed foods such as white sugar and white flour as well as unhealthy fats, lack of exercise and
exposure to environmental toxins. Many of these toxins are referred to as xeno-estrogens. Xeno = foreign or outside the body. These foreign substances bind very strongly to estrogen receptors in the body and therefore strongly mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. We are exposed to numerous xeno-estrogens in our environment today which increase total body load of estrogen. Xeno-estrogens are found in plastics, phthalates (also known as plasticizers, substances added to plastics to make them more flexible, transparent and durable), bisphenol A which lines beverage and food containers, BHA - butylated hydroxyanisole–a food preservative also used in certain medications, hormone injected meats, weed killer, pesticides, DDT and PCB’s – both of which have been banned from use in the USA, foaming agents in soaps and detergents, personal care products such as cosmetics, sunscreens, parabens in lotions, spermicides in condoms, birth control pills containing ethinyl estradiol, Teflon cookware, clothes, computer chips and PVC piping. Studies of the effects of xeno-estrogens in animals have revealed high levels of estrogen in females, low testosterone, low sperm counts and feminization in males and overall, decreased numbers of offspring. The S.A.D. – Standard American Diet - laden with unhealthy fats and carbohydrates can literally double estrogen levels above normal. These processed foods are calorie rich and nutrient poor. They do not come from nature. They are manufactured. Whole grain bread and whole wheat pasta are processed foods. Most of what we eat is processed elevating estrogen levels and increasing fat storage. This means more fat cells to store the fat and then these fat cells produce more estrogen perpetuating a high estrogen- high fat cycle. Estrogen levels have been found to be much lower in women who perform strenuous physical activity. Exercise plays an important role in how estrogen is metabolized in the body. Studies have shown that women with an increased risk for breast cancer had great improvement in their estrogen metabolism when they were placed on a moderate exercise regimen and calorie restriction. Ultimately, lean body mass means less body fat which means less estrogen is being produced from fat cells. Fewer fat cells mean less fat storage so the high estrogen high fat cycle is broken.
Effects of Early Menarche At the turn of the twentieth century the average age of menarche was fourteen years of age. Today some females are starting to have their periods as early as eight years of age in large part due to diets of highly refined foods and exposure to foreign estrogens. It is also no coincidence that industrialized nations with much higher rates of exposure to xeno-estrogens and processed foods
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have higher rates of breast and endometrial cancer. If women are menstruating earlier and waiting longer to have children and then having fewer children and breast feeding them for much shorter periods of time their exposure to estrogen is much greater. This increased exposure is then compounded by the toxic soup of estrogen mimickers we live in and the food we are ingesting. A woman has on average five hundred periods throughout her lifetime. The hormonal fluctuations that occur monthly ultimately allow for the survival of our species. It is clear that we need to clean up our diets and our environment to reduce the estrogen onslaught that is occurring and that may in the long run threaten our survival as human beings on earth. Excess estrogen is definitely adversely impacting our health.
Menopausal Symptoms and Hormone Imbalance Excessive levels of estrogen can also impact how a woman goes through menopause. If a woman approaches menopause with twice as much estrogen in her body and inadequate progesterone to balance that estrogen not only is she likely to experience estrogen dominant symptoms she will also be more likely to experience the “traditional” symptoms of menopause namely, hot flashes, night sweats, flushing, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, palpitations, mood swings, memory issues and joint and muscle aches. Some menopausal women also develop frequent urinary or vaginal infections as a result of this hormonal imbalance.
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HAYFEVER? FOOD INTOLERANCES? SPRING OR FALL ALLERGIES? 14
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Non-invasive testing and therapies
D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8
Interestingly, women are often told that they need more estrogen when they go through menopause. When a woman in an industrialized nation goes through menopause ovarian production of estrogen falls by an estimated forty percent. With estrogen levels double normal in these women, despite this fall, there is still a lot of estrogen around to promote tissue growth, water retention and fat storage. Estrogen continues to be produced by the adrenal glands and fat cells to maintain those functions of estrogen not related to reproduction, namely bone formation, insulin balance, and fat and protein metabolism. Progesterone is not produced when a woman stops ovulating as occurs in menopause. Some progesterone is produced by the adrenal glands but levels can actually fall much greater than estrogen levels when a woman goes through menopause. Clearly this scenario can greatly upset the delicate balance that needs to exist between progesterone and estrogen for optimal hormonal health. Hormone imbalance is responsible for poor sleep, low energy, diminished sexual desire and problems managing stress appropriately. Stress, itself, is a major contributor to hormone imbalance. We place tremendous demands on our bodies - more than we were designed to handle without support. When the body is under physical or emotional stress its response is to produce stress hormones, one of which is cortisol. Over time this repeated stress taxes the adrenal glands and they fatigue. Because cortisol requires progesterone for its production, progesterone may be shunted toward production of cortisol resulting in less progesterone available to counteract the negative effects of estrogen. Estrogen dominance again results.
Treatment for Menopause Over the years attempts have been made to address and treat the symptoms associated with menopause. In the early 1900’s aging female nobility in China were given dried young female’s urine to eat. Containing the metabolites of progesterone, estrogen and testosterone, the dried urine was found to help with menopausal symptoms. In the 1940’s the pharmaceutical company Wyeth decided to produce a drug called Premarin, a conjugated estrogen made from pregnant mare’s urine to help with menopausal symptoms. This drug was an effective therapy for many women; however, in the 1970’s a causal relationship was found between estrogen and endometrial cancer. In response, Wyeth developed Provera - a synthetic progestin, not equal to progesterone in many of its effects except its ability to protect the uterus from unopposed estrogen. For thirty years these synthetic hormones were peddled to unsuspecting menopausal women as the only way to eliminate menopausal symptoms and prevent cancer, heart dis-ease and osteoporosis. In the 1990’s Wyeth partnered with the National Institute of Health, a government agency, to conduct a long term study of the effects of Premarin and Provera in postmenopausal women. The aim of the study was to prove that women needed hormone replacement therapy to protect them from cancer, heart attack, stroke and bone loss. This study was called the Women’s Health Initiative and was conducted across the United States in multiple academic centers. In 2002 the study was halted because data actually showed an increased incidence of heart attack, stroke and breast cancer in patients taking these hormones. Millions of women stopped taking these hormones after the NIH came out with a public statement declaring that hormones were harmful. Although Wyeth was not required to take Premarin and Provera off the market, low dose variations of the drugs continued to be prescribed for shorter duration to women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Were there any other available options to address these symptoms? NaturalNutmeg.com
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Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy
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Natural Nutmeg May 2013
Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has been a treatment option for women since the 1930’s. The hormones were initially delivered through intramuscular injection. BHRT was not supported by the drug industry because these hormones were derived from plants and as such could not be patented. Unfortunately, doctors get most of their information about drug therapies from drug companies so most practitioners have not learned about BHRT. Because BHRT is hormone therapy, much of the medical community assumes that bio-identical hormones, like synthetic hormones, are harmful. In 2004 Suzanne Somers introduced BHRT to the masses in her book “The Sexy Years.” BHRT use has increased significantly in the US since then, though it has been used successfully for decades in Europe. The term bio-identical is not a marketing scheme. These hormones have the exact chemical structure as the hormones which our bodies produce so they function well in the body. They are manufactured in laboratories from soy and yam oils but because they do not come directly from nature some might say they are not natural. Bio-identical estradiol, progesterone and testosterone are FDA approved. Estriol, the weaker estrogen which is produced during pregnancy is not FDA approved. Because it is the estrogen which the body produces during pregnancy, a time when the fetus is most vulnerable to the effects of any exposures, it is felt by many to be a safer alternative to using estradiol, the most potent estrogen the body produces. Progesterone is the only one of these hormones which is available over the counter. There are commercially available bio-identical hormones including the Vivelle patch, Climera and Estraderm delivered via the skin and oral Estrace. These hormones contain only estradiol, the most potent estrogen. Prometrium is oral progesterone and Androgel is testosterone applied topically. The downside to these hormone products is the higher dosing. With compounded BHRT, the dosing is often ten to twenty times lower and is individualized based on each patient’s salivary hormone levels and symptoms. There is no one size fits all approach. However, it is recommended to all hormone patients that they eat whole foods, move daily, eat every 2-3 hours and reduce stress and exposure to environmental toxins. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help achieve healthier hormone balance in the body. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is often the answer to many people’s prayers when it comes to improving health and reducing or eliminating symptoms. If we know that it is our lifestyle choices that create hormone imbalance in the first place why can’t we just start there? For some people this is a viable option but for many it is not. They are too tired, overwhelmed and stressed to do what is necessary. They know that they need to do. They just cannot do it. BHRT very often gives patients the energy, motivation and desire to take the steps required to improve their health. Balancing hormones can bring balance into our lives just as balancing our lives can bring our bodies into greater hormonal balance. Dr. Deanna M. Cherrone is a board certified Internist who practices Functional Medicine at Natural Health & Healing, LLC located at 60 E. Main St. in Avon, CT. She can be reached at 860-677-4600 or via email at drcherrone@naturalhealthandhealing.net. See ad on back cover.
Michele Welcome-Pellegatto
Dish
Chicken Tacos with Romaine Shells
W
hen you think of tacos, what comes to mind? Fatty, beefy, oily, sloppy meat scooped into crunchy, salty, corn shells with layers of cheese, salsa, olives, and sour cream? The only saving grace is the lettuce you might add on top, but you wouldn’t want to get carried away and add enough vegetables to make the dish healthy, right? Just kidding! One thing we all love about tacos is that they are quick and easy to make. After a long work day or an evening workout you just want to whip something together quickly so you can relax for the evening. Now you can have your tacos, and eat them, too! My version of guilt-free healthy tacos can be created in 15 minutes or less, so give them a try and let me know what you think! Ingredients: 1. 1lb fresh ground chicken –The Meat House in Avon will freshly grind their free-bird chicken breasts upon request. This chicken has no chemicals/antibiotics and the chickens are treated humanely. 2. Organic, large romaine lettuce leaves—3 or 4 per person 3. Organic taco seasoning (to taste) 4. 10-12 organic grape tomatoes (per person) 5. 1 sweet onion 6. 1 avocado 7. 2-4 cloves of fresh garlic 8. 1 container of organic salsa 9. 1 container of Greek yogurt 10. 2-3 tablespoons of grapeseed oil
Directions: In a large skillet, spray organic non-stick spray and toss the ground chicken and ½ the onion in the pan. Cook completely, using a spatula to mix around and break up the chicken. Add taco seasoning (to taste), grapeseed oil, 2 to 4 garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt and pepper (if desired). Turn off the heat and let sit covered. Meanwhile, pull whole romaine lettuce leaves off the stem, wash, dry, and lay out on dinner plates. Chop the rest of the onion, grape tomatoes, and avocado for toppings. Stir the ground chicken one last time before filling each lettuce leaf and adding toppings of choice. Finish each taco with organic salsa and a dollop of Greek yogurt, or mash the avocado, onion, and Greek yogurt together to create a refreshing topping. Makes 4 servings Submitted by Michele Welcome-Pellegatto, owner of Snap Fitness Health Club in Avon at 260 West Main Street, Avon, CT 06001. Michelle is a 3x Professional Physique Athlete, Certified Personal Trainer, and Cathy Savage Fitness (CSF) Nutrition, Training, & Competition Prep Coach. Michele believes nutrition is the yin to the fitness yang and focuses on combining both to help her members reach health and wellness goals. She can be reached at avonct@ snapfitness.com or 860-581-4014. See ad on page 23.
NaturalNutmeg.com
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Novel Approaches to Lyme Disease: Ancient Remedies and Modern Illnesses
By Kenneth R. Hoffman, L.Ac
T
he history of Lyme disease in Connecticut began in 1975, when a cluster of children and adults residing in the Lyme, Connecticut area experienced uncommon arthritic symptoms. By 1977, the first 51 cases of Lyme arthritis were described, and the Ixodes scapularis (blacklegged) tick was linked to the transmission of the disease. During 1982, Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, was discovered and the first brochure addressing Lyme disease was developed by the Arthritis Foundation. Serology testing became widely available in Connecticut during 1984. By 1988, the news of Lyme disease spread and national media attention began. The first federal funding for Lyme disease surveillance, education, and research became available in 1991. The first Lyme disease vaccine became available in 1997. However, the manufacturer withdrew the vaccine from the market in 2001, due to safety issues, lack of efficacy and class action lawsuits.
Two Standards of Care According to the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society, “Opinion within the medical community is deeply divided regarding the best approach for treating Lyme disease, particularly persistent Lyme disease that is not cured by shortterm protocols. This split has resulted in two standards of care. Both viewpoints are reflected in peer-reviewed, evidence-based guidelines. Some physicians treat patients for 30 days only and assume that remaining symptoms reflect a self-perpetuating autoimmune response. Other physicians assume that the persistent symptoms reflect 18
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on-going infection and gauge the duration of treatment by the patient’s individual clinical response. These physicians believe that there is insufficient evidence at this point to adopt standardized treatment protocols.” If you add to this the other theories regarding chronic Lyme disease symptoms, such as the presence of co-infections and the “Molecular-mimic” theory of a Lyme-like auto-immune problem, it is easy to see why a patient suffering from Lyme Disease can get confused and lost in the sea of information and opinion.
Details of the Disease Lyme Disease symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways, leading to missed or ignored symptoms. Most recently, a patient of mine, a 10-year-old boy, presented with nothing more than a swollen knee. The Western Blot and Elisa tests were performed and came back positive. It would have been easy to miss the single symptom which would later have lead to serious infection. It’s important to know that Lyme testing is typically 50% incorrect and there are a variety of co-infections that may not be tested for. One of the best labs for testing is Igenix Lab. However, if all testing is coming back negative and you are experiencing Lymetype symptoms, neuromuscular testing from a qualified practitioner can be effective to support using a natural approach. Early symptoms of Lyme include a bullseye rash and flu-like symptoms. Later symptoms include joint pain and neurological impairment. More rare but equally disturbing symptoms can include heart problems such as palpitations, liver inflammation, eye inflammation, and severe fatigue.
Treatment While treatment, testing and controversies can take up a whole book, let’s look at just a few ideas. Due to the dangerous and long-term debilitating effect of Lyme Disease and its many manifestations, do not try to self-diagnose or treat this disease. Go see a qualified, Lyme-literate health professional. This article is intended only to inform and educate so that you will understand the doctors you see and be aware of what is available from a complementary medicine standpoint. Chinese Medicine: Chinese medicine views all pathogens as toxic heat; regardless of the type of microbe, Meteria Medica (herbs that work for toxic heat) will help. A bio-medical explanation would state that these herbs work against aggressive entities such as bacterial and viral infections, and even against parasitic and malarial-type pathogens. Ironically, Western Science has supported the use of the herbals as effective anti-microbials. Two such examples we use in my clinic are Xu Duan (teasel root) and Hu Zhang (Knotweed). The most absorbable way to take these is in a tincture. Since I could not find a good source of these locally, a local community of nuns grew a large batch and distilled them. These herbs will be very powerful as they were lovingly grown and harvested to retain the energy of the plants. I find that the addition of acupuncture therapy also opens up the circulation, so the herbs can penetrate the body deeper to get to all the pathogenic particles and support good immune and organ function.
Integrative Medicine While writing this article I came across the work of Deitrich Klinghardt, a medical doctor who specializes in the use of Ozone therapy, cleaning up the EMF environment, and a cocktail of herbals. More information can be found at www.klinghardtacademy. com. Naturopaths who are Lyme-literate should be able to facilitate his protocols.
Homeopathy Many Lyme symptoms mimic auto-immune diseases such as Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis. In fact, there is a theory that once the actual microbes are gone, the immune system behaves as if the organism is still there. Homeopathy is a system of medicine which involves treating the individual with highly diluted substances, with the aim of triggering the body’s natural system of healing. A homeopath will match the most appropriate medicine to each patient, based on the patient’s specific symptoms. Because I believe homeopathy is a strong triggering system for resetting the body’s many chemical and biological pathways, I feel it could be an effective treatment for chronic Lyme.
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Holistic Solutions Donald L. Piccoli, DC 363 New Britain Road, Kensington, CT 06037
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Which One is Right?
the same results, unless they’re good results. Base your decision on both objective results (testing) and subjective results (how you feel) not just one or the other. Become an expert on your condition. And don’t ever give up and accept what you have. Expect your body to work miracles for you and it will.
At the end of the day, the conclusion is that all methods have challenges, whether they be the overuse of antibiotics that destroy digestion and immunity, or risking not clearing the pathogens properly. At my clinic we help patients with these challenges daily. My advice is to test, test, test, mixing conventional testing with functional and energetic testing. This provides many points of data to ensure that patients are getting well and staying well. There is still quite a bit of controversy as to the direction to pursue with chronic Lyme in both conventional and unconventional circles. At this point, all of us know someone who has or has had Lyme disease. Choose the approach for you, expect and get results or move to another form of care. Don’t continue to do the same thing and get
Kenneth R. Hoffman, L.Ac, D.Ac (RI), started private training under the tutelage of a Taoist medical and qi gong master in 1991 where he began learning the art of Chinese healing through Qi Gong, Herbology, Tui Na (Chinese medical massage) and Tai Qi. He graduated from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in 2004 and finished his clinical internship at St John’s Riverside Hospital. He is the medical director for Sophia Natural Health Center in Brookfield where his specialties are hormone conditions, allergies, pain and medical thermography. It is one of the largest acupuncture and Oriental medicine centers in Connecticut. He can be reached at his new location at Brookfield Medical Center, 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT or 203-740-9300. www.SophiaNaturalHealth.com. See ad on page 20.
Homeopathy is a complex art and requires decades of study to do right. In Europe, it is taught primarily to MDs. I would recommend, if taking this route, that one find a highly trained practitioner.
Arthritis, abdominal pain, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, migraines, autism, ADD, ADHD, Sensitivity to medications, geriatric medicine, nutritional support, Diet and exercise, pain management, back pain, colitis, IBS, Chrons, chronic conditions, acute conditions pediatrics, WE ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCES menopause, arHelping Patients Findthyroid, Doctors thritis, issues, Who Treat stomach Health Care Naturally... head Memberache NDs: including miDr. Ann Aresco • Kensington • 860-829-0707 graines, eczema, Dr. Rick Cooper • Norwalk • 203-229-0164psoriasis, Dr. Marcos de Escobar • Waterbury • 203-757-9336 adrenals, allergies, Dr. Summer McAllistersinus, • Norwalk • 877-437-3537 Dr. Jonathan Ritz • Lebanon • 860-281-7489 food allergies, hormone 860-505-0702 imbalances Arthritis, abProNaturalPhysicians.com ProNaturalPhysicians@comcast.net dominal pain, rheumatoid 20
Natural Nutmeg May 2013
Forbidden Flowers? Not These...
M
ost hospitals in the United States and Europe ban fresh flowers from all of their Critical Care Units. Live plants, flowers, and fruit baskets are not allowed in areas where patients receive medical treatments that compromise the immune system, such as Intensive Care, Transplant and Oncology. Caution must also be used in hospital wards where people with autoimmune deficiencies such as Lupus are being treated. The main concern is that live plants and floral arrangements have the potential of harboring bacteria that could be harmful to patients. People being treated with medications that lower their ability to tolerate allergens could get an infection or suffer an allergic reaction to the scented flowers. Even if a patient is not allergic to flowers, there could be someone in the vicinity of the arrangement who is sensitive to the odors. Furthermore, the Intensive Care Unit is a sterile environment, and flowers have pollens, which can travel freely through circulating air. Live vegetation can also harbor insects that could spread. Another concern is that flowers often arrive in glass vases, which creates an additional risk due to breakage and possible injury. Live plants and flowers require maintenance, which often becomes the responsibility of the staff. However, one study done by Giskin Day and Naiome Carter of Imperial College, London proved that flowers “could help improve a patient’s health and recovery.” A 2009 article in “Environment of Care News,” explained how the art in patients’ rooms can improve the quality of health care. Through research, it was found that art has a strong impact, not just on patients but also on caregivers. The hospital restrictions on live flowers and plants and the art of flower making became the foundation for a unique business that solved a problem by bringing floral art into hospital rooms. Elizabeth Greenberg, a student at Elon University majoring in entrepreneurship, was devastated when she was told she could not bring flowers to her friend hospitalized
for cancer surgery. But that incident made her recognize the need for a substitution, something colorful and artistic that would cheer up her friend. She also wanted to communicate messages of encouragement and healing. With these desires in mind, she found the solution in the form of origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. Within one year, Elizabeth and her mother had created a social enterprise called Non-Scents. NonScents delivers flowers for any occasion, but they were specifically designed to convey messages of cheer to hospital patients, people with allergies, or individuals who have odor sensitivities. Non-Scents flowers are whimsical, colorful origami flower arrangements, often made from recycled papers. Within each of six flower blossoms, a meaningful, inspirational message is rolled up and secured, waiting to be delivered and read without the worry of an allergic reaction. The arrangement is a card and a gift, all in one. They’ve been delivered to hospitals, offices, private homes and nursing homes for all types of events. Non-Scents offers meaningful, pre-written quotes within each flower, which can be likened to those found in a fortune cookie. People ordering Non-Scents also have the opportunity to customize their own messages and say what they really want to say. The
notes can be further customized by ordering them on plantable paper, seed paper made from recycled fibers and embedded with a variety of wildflower seeds. This paper can be planted in a garden and will grow into live flowers. And, even if discarded, the paper is biodegradable and will not be detrimental to a landfill. Non-Scents flowers is a woman-owned business, and each piece is hand made in America. All of the arrangements are created with the assistance of intellectually disabled individuals through The ARC of Farmington Valley in Canton, CT. Additional information can be obtained at their website: http:// www.nonscentsflowers.com.
Expressive Art Groups & Workshops 2013 Express your visual voice & discover creative wellbeing! “Get Your Toes Wet! Intro To Expressive Art” Saturday, May 18th. 12:30-3:30. $35. “Art & Healing-Loving What Is Unloved” Women’s Expressive Art Group. 4 -Wednesdays. May 15, 22, 29, June 5. 5:30-8:30. $175. “Paint Your Vision” 4 - Tuesdays, 5-8pm. June 16, 23, 30 & July 7. $175.
To register or for more information contact Elisabeth Moss BFA 12 Old Farms Rd Avon, CT • 860.550.0882 • www.elisabethmoss.com NaturalNutmeg.com
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Food: Medicine or Poison?
W
e all need food to exist, and nearly all of us derive substantial pleasure from a well-prepared meal. Unfortunately, we live in a time when the quality of food has come into question. Corporate farming techniques deplete the nutrient-content of produce, livestock are fed unnatural diets, and then there are GMOs. Most of us know we should avoid highly processed foods with added sugars, calorie-dense fast foods, chemically laden foods, and genetically modified foods, all of which are likely culprits in many of the chronic ailments and the obesity epidemic that plagues a growing portion of our population. But what about foods considered healthy? Are there really any universally beneficial foods?
Food Sensitivities Insidiously Make Us Ill It turns out that there are crucial differences in individuals that can cause an otherwise healthy food to become a source of chronic symptoms. In contrast to more commonly recognized food allergies that cause immediate reactions like hives, swelling and difficulty breathing, food sensitivities can cause delayed immune reactions that insidiously make us ill. Food sensitivities are not something I learned about in medical school, and many of my conventional colleagues scoff at the idea. But nearly 80% of the population is affected by food sensitivities or intolerances. Unlike allergies, food sensitivity is not always a straightforward yes or no. There usually are different degrees of intolerance, which can be altered by changing eating habits, stress levels, medical conditions, nutritional status, hormone levels, gut health, and other factors that affect the immune system.
A Case Study Cassandra, a registered dietitian who works with me, had years of gastrointestinal (GI) difficulties, despite eating a very healthy diet. When my office started offering the ALCAT food sensitivity test, Cassandra immediately signed up. The ALCAT Test identifies cellular reactions to more than 350 foods, chemicals and herbs. These inflammatory reactions are linked to chronic health problems like obesity and diabetes, as well as skin, heart, joint, and digestive disorders. 22
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Cassandra eliminated foods identified on her ALCAT test, and her symptoms improved dramatically. Interestingly, her daughter had some of the same intolerances. Cassandra recently told me, “The ALCAT panel has revealed to me foods that I could never properly identify as bothersome, but truly are. Now that these foods are eliminated and/or minimized, my gut is much more calm and healthy and I feel amazing. This test has been so helpful for my family who all struggle with gastro-intestinal disorders and has us all functioning at a much higher health level. I recommend it to everyone I know who struggles with digestive issues. I can’t say enough good about it.” Another patient had a recurring rash on her face, trunk and extremities for several years. Despite seeing several dermatologists and trying a variety of prescription topical creams, she did not receive any lasting relief. Her ALCAT panel revealed several intolerant foods that she ate regularly. Once they were eliminated, her rash resolved. It has been nearly two years now. In my practice we have seen similar success with most of the symptoms listed above in people with documented intolerances.
Two-thirds of Immune Activity Occurs in the Gut Recent scientific discoveries have revealed deeper levels of understanding of how food interacts with our immune system, affecting metabolism in ways that can be both beneficial and harmful. Chronic activation of the immune system produces chronic inflammation, which is the underlying cause of most chronic diseases. Long term exposure can even trigger auto-immunity, where the immune system attacks its own body tissues. We used to believe that the primary function of the GI tract was the digestion and absorption of nutrients, along with the balance of water and electrolytes. When we eat, food passes through the stomach into the small intestine. That is where nutrient absorption occurs through a semi-permeable lining of the intestinal wall. It has become increasingly clear that the gut also functions as a barrier to regulate the trafficking of larger molecules between the environment and the body. Because this mucous membrane shields the bloodstream from potential invaders such as toxins, pathogens and undigested food, it is a vital part of the body’s immune system.
Researchers estimate that two-thirds of our immune activity occurs in the gut. Foods to which we have a specific sensitivity can alter the permeability of the intestinal lining. The immune system treats this “sensitive food” like a foreign invader. A classic example is the adverse effect gluten sensitivity can have on intestinal permeability which leads to a leaky gut.
Leaky Gut Leaky Gut Syndrome is a condition that develops when the tight junctions between the cells on the mucous lining of the small intestine become too porous, allowing unwanted toxins to enter the bloodstream. A substance call zonulin modulates those tight junctions. Gluten and its toxic component gliadin, just like bacterial overgrowth, have been shown to activate the zonulin pathway, leading to increased intestinal permeability. A variety of conditions have been associated with dysfunction of intestinal tight junctions, including food sensitivities, GI tract infections, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases. There also is growing evidence that genetically modified foods may contribute to leaky gut. Zonulin levels can be measured in the blood. Food sensitivities and leaky gut are very closely interrelated. The source of the problems may originate in the intestinal tract but can lead to widespread systemic symptoms, including: • Joint pains • Fatigue • Rashes and skin disorders • Depression • Brain fog, poor memory and confusion • Headaches or migraines • Irritability • Impaired sleep • Nutrient deficiencies • Irritable bowel syndrome
The Importance of Variety One more important point is about variety in your diet. Our digestive system is suited to a changing, seasonal diet. Unfortunately, as a society, we are losing sight of that. With modern agriculture and ease of shipping, every food is available nearly year round. If people demand fresh strawberries in the middle of winter, all they have to do is go to the nearest grocery store to get them. While you do not need to have prior exposure to have a sensitivity, breaking down, digesting and metabolizing the same foods, day after day, increases the likelihood of developing a sensitivity to them, or to a related food. You may not notice it at first, as your body has a tremendous capacity for adaptation. But eventually, with relentless exposure to the same foods, that adaptation is overwhelmed and you begin to experience symptoms. How will you know if you have food sensitivities? All it requires is a simple blood test. It is a test that everyone who wants a healthy lifestyle should have done. The ancient Greek philosopher Lucretius once said, “One man’s meat is another man’s poison”. The ALCAT test can help you determine which food is which for you.
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PREVENTION
Dr. Patrick DeFrancesco
Sweet Dreams
“I wish I could sleep through the night.” “I can’t fall asleep.” “I wake up every hour.” “I can’t stop thinking.” “Why am I so tired and cranky when I get up in the morning?” “Doctor, do you have anything that can help me sleep?”
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hese are just a few of the sleep-related complaints I have heard from my patients over the past 20 years. It seems clear that not sleeping soundly, or at all, has become a major issue. Why is this happening? Is it due to stress, poor diet, lack of down time prior to bed, or an inadequate sleeping surface? Sleep plays a vital role in your wellbeing, protects physical and mental health, and promotes quality of life. The way you feel while awake depends in part on the quantity and quality of your sleep.
Not for Adults Only Children suffer from sleeping disorders, too. Common symptoms include decreased learning ability, inadequate development of the cortex, poor communication skills, reduced socialization, and depression/suicide. While a person sleeps, the body is rejuvenated, cells are repaired, the immune system is strengthened, and mental functions are sharpened; much like rebooting a computer resets and removes barriers or viruses that prevent proper function. A frozen computer does not respond to outside stimuli, which is exactly what occurs in the human body with sleep deprivation. Our bodies seize up, affecting overall performance and function. Ongoing sleep deficiency can make it difficult to learn new things, cause poor decision making, and increase the risks of heart disease, diabetes, anxiety, depression, suicide, obesity, hypertension, and stroke; thus shortening life expectancy. How can we get more rest and return to proper levels of sleep? The quantity of sleep needed each day will change over the course of a lifetime. According to the American Sleep Institute the following chart applies: Newborns 16-18 hours/day Preschool-Aged children 11-12 hours/day School-Aged children 10-11 hours/day Teens 9-10 hours/day Adults (including elderly) 7-8 hours/day
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Set a Consistent Routine Your body has a rhythm and an internal time-clock. Good sleep requires a consistent routine, which means going to bed and waking up at the same time (within an hour) each day, whether weeknight or weekend. This sounds simple but it’s not, due to the many diversions in our lives. A consistent sleep-schedule permits a stage during the sleep cycle in which dreams occur and the body undergoes marked changes, including rapid eye movement, loss of reflexes, and increased pulse rate and brain activity, also called REM sleep or paradoxical sleep. This is the ultimate sleep goal and must be reached daily for a healthy and happy life.
Promote REM Sleep Some factors that aid in promoting REM sleep include: daily physical activity of at least 30 minutes, but not within 3 hours of sleep time, and preferably outside. It’s also important to avoid large meals for two hours prior to going to sleep and especially to avoid food or drinks that contain stimulants like caffeine, sugar, or chocolate during this time, as the effects can last up to eight hours.
Quiet Time Try carving out a little quiet time before bed, perhaps reading by the fire or listening to your favorite classical music. Completely remove bright and artificial lights, including those from the many screens in the home, such as the TV, computer, and cell phone. These lights signal the brain that it is time to be awake.
Electronics The increased usage of electronic media is most likely the biggest cause of sleep disorders in children and adults. Parents must not only evaluate the type and amount of video games their children play, but when they can be played. Too much game-time during the day, or more importantly at night before bed time, is setting our kids up for a multitude of problems, including sleep disorders.
Sleep Aids Several studies have revealed that during periods of disturbed REM sleep, calcium levels are extremely low. Taking a quality calcium/magnesium supplement that has a ratio of 1:1 has been shown to counteract this, and may be the most important supplement for inducing sleep naturally. Magnesium promotes proper absorption of calcium which is then used by the brain to manufacture melatonin, which helps regulate sleep and wake cycles. Drinking four ounces of organic milk with a pinch of nutmeg thirty minutes before retiring acts as a natural relaxant. Valerian root and chamomile also can help, and both can be taken in capsule or tea form prior to bed. Other ways to promote more restful sleep include keeping the bedroom quiet, cool and dark, or taking a hot bath before retiring (you might want to add a few capfuls of a bath soak that contains lavender and eucalyptus).
How to Buy a Mattress A better quality sleep surface provides a better night’s sleep. Over time, all mattresses wear out and may even form valleys that offer little or no support. When shopping for a new mattress, know that you will spend one-third of your time on it, so test-sleep it by lying down on it for 15 minutes or so to really get a feel for it, or you may be cheating yourself. One of the most important rules to follow when hunting for a mattress is that a larger person needs more support than a smaller person. I always recommend firmer mattresses as opposed to medium or softer ones because you can make a firm mattress softer by adding a topper, but you cannot make a soft mattress firmer. Also, by starting with a firmer one, the mattress is at its peak in five years verses nearing the end of its useful life. Mattress prices range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the style selected, and there are many types, including: traditional coil spring, air (such as those from Select Comfort Corp.), memory foam, latex foam, and water among them. Traditional mattresses that are of a high quality organic material are the best choice. If you and your partner cannot agree on firmness, an air mattress type that allows the firmness on each side to be controlled independently may prove to be best. Lastly, a mattress should be replaced every ten years or so with the average person having seven to nine mattresses over the course of a lifetime.
How to Pick a Pillow A quality pillow that supports your cervical spine is essential. When you sleep, your ear, shoulder, hip and ankle should be aligned whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach. This removes pressure from your spinal column and nervous system and allows for proper rest and rejuvenation. Avoid stomach sleeping as it puts stress on joints and muscles and makes it difficult to maintain a neutral position with your spine. Side or back positions are best. Good night and rest well for tomorrow is a new day! “The best cure for insomnia is to get a lot of sleep.” ~W.C. Fields Submitted by Dr. Patrick DeFrancesco of Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury. For more information, contact 860-657-8800 or visit www.glastonburychiro.com. See ad on page16.
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SELF
Ashley Burkman, ND
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Not as Simple as Acid Suppression
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astroesophageal reflux disease, GERD, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach reflux backward up into the esophagus, creating chest pain and pressure, chronic cough and discomfort. Sometimes individuals may not have any of the common symptoms of GERD and are diagnosed after an endoscopy, a camera that can visualize the tissue of the stomach and esophagus. Not only is GERD a nuisance, but with continual back flow of the acidic contents of the stomach into the esophagus, it can lead to a precancerous condition called Barrett’s Esophagus. The most common treatment for GERD are antacids which neutralize stomach acid and acid reducing medications that limit the release of acid into the stomach, thereby, reducing the symptoms of burning and discomfort in the esophagus. While this may be a temporary solution, chronic use and abuse of these medications may lead to malabsorption of nutrients, bacterial overgrowth and can put you at a higher risk of certain conditions like osteoporosis. Stomach acid is one of the body’s first lines of defense as acid helps to kill off offending bacteria and pathogens that enter
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the body. Acid also plays several rolls in digestion including triggering the release of digestive enzymes like pepsin, which is needed for the breakdown of proteins. Stomach acid also aids in the absorption of essential nutrients including vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and iron. Vitamin B12 is needed for proper nervous system conduction and deficiency can be seen as tingling in hands and feet, depression and fatigue. Calcium and magnesium are needed for bone mineral density and when low can lead to osteopenia or osteoporosis. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and when not absorbed properly can show as anemia and be felt as fatigue and inability to focus. These are just a few of the major roles acid plays in the maintenance of health, thereby further illustrating the need for investigation into the causes of GERD rather than masking the symptoms with acid neutralizers and blockers.
Anatomy & Physiology 101 Digestion starts in the mouth with mastication (chewing). Food is mixed with saliva, which starts to break down the food
bolus. After chewing comes swallowing and propulsion of food toward the stomach. Once in the stomach, digestive enzymes and acid are mixed with food to further break down food into a substance called chyme which is then sent to the small intestine for further digestion and absorption. The separation between stomach and esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter, is meant to remain closed unless food is entering the stomach. When there is dysfunction with the sphincter, stomach contents are allowed to backwash up into the esophagus leading to esophageal erosion. There are tests that can be done to ensure proper tone of the lower esophageal sphincter and avoidance of carminatives like mint, which further relax the sphincter, can be helpful in reducing GERD symptoms.
Conditions Associated with GERD 1. Too Little Acid More often than not, the stomach may not be producing enough acid to digest food appropriately, prolonging the time it takes to digest and move food from the stomach to the small intestine. When the digestive process is slowed, this can increase the chance of backflow into the esophagus. Ways to test the acidity of your stomach include the Heidelberg test or the Betaine HCL challenge test. The Heidelberg test is the most accurate way of testing stomach acidity. It requires a small capsule with a pH transmitter to be swallowed by the patient after fasting for at least 8 hours. An electrode placed on the stomach will read the fasting pH of the stomach. Once a fasting pH is established, the patient is asked to drink an alkaline solution of sodium bicarbonate and further readings of pH will be taken to decipher the amount of time it takes for the stomach to reestablish the original fasting pH. The Betaine HCL challenge is a much less invasive test that can be done at home that can also help detect decreased stomach acid production. The test involves Betaine HCL capsules to be taken with protein meals until you feel a burning or hot sensation
in the stomach. Starting with one HCL capsule with a high protein meal, working up to as many capsules needed to feel a burning or hot sensation in the stomach. The more capsules it takes, typically no more than 3, indicates a low production of stomach acid. If burning is felt at first dose, this is a sign of adequate stomach acid production. Note: NSAIDS like Aleve and Ibuprofen can increase the risk of stomach damage with HCL, physician approval is recommended prior to performing the Betaine HCL challenge.
2. Food Intolerances Food intolerances are different from food allergies in that food allergies create hypersensitivity reactions that can lead to life threatening situations like obstruction of breathing. Food intolerances can create low-level inflammation in the gastrointestinal system that can lead to indigestion and increase the chances of reflux. Inflammatory food triggers can be different for each person and can be quantified through food intolerance testing. Pinpointing inflammatory foods and eliminating them from the diet can bring about resolution of symptoms.
3. Neurological Disorders
Don’t let fear keep you from better health...
An intact neurological system is needed for proper chewing, swallowing and propulsion of food into the stomach. Conditions that affect the neurological system like strokes, cerebral palsy, brain tumors, dementia and multiple sclerosis can all affect the central nervous system control of the process of swallowing. Neurological disorders usually have other symptoms associated than just digestive disruption but can also be a cause of GERD. With so many causes for the symptoms of GERD it is worthwhile to further explore your particular triggers rather than masking the symptoms given that long-term suppression of symptoms can lead to further health deterioration. Dr. Ashley Burkman is a board certified licensed Naturopathic Physician at Connecticut Natural Health Specialists, LLC. Like all the physicians at Connecticut Natural Health Specialists, LLC, Dr. Burkman is dedicated to treating the cause of disease and is an in-network provider for most insurance companies. Visit http://www.ctnaturalhealth.com. For an appointment, please call (860) 533-0179. See ad on page 26.
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Electro-Acupuncture A Unique Testing System
By Elena Sokolova, MD, ND
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loria, a 55 year-old woman, came into my office with an itchy skin rash. She had already visited a dermatologist who had prescribed a steroidal cream; unfortunately, the cream did not get rid of the rash. When I tested her, I discovered that she had a signal for a microbe that causes “hot tub” rash. I gave her a natural remedy based on the test. In five days her skin was normal. Susan, a middle-aged, motivated school worker, came in complaining about a chronic scratchy throat, episodes of dry cough, mild sinus congestion, headaches, and tiredness (no fever or chills). Upon testing, I discovered that she had a signal for several strains of Streptococci. I made her a remedy based upon those test results, and I gave her a combination of antimicrobial botanicals. She took these remedies for several months. Generally speaking, the duration of treatment for Streptococcus bacteria varies, depending on the degree of toxicity and virulence of the particular species. However when I saw Susan for her follow-up visit, she reported that her primary care physician had tested her for Strep, and the result was negative. Danielle, a 30-year-old pet lover, came in complaining that she didn’t feel well when she was around her cat. The problem was so severe that if she came within 6 feet of her cat, she developed a headache, sinus congestion, itchy skin, a GI disturbance, and fatigue. Considering that she lived with the cat, in the interest of time, I decided to skip routine labs and start treatment immediately. I checked her for cat’s fur and cat’s dandruff using my testing system. Fifteen minutes later, I made a remedy for her based on the results of the test. She started taking the remedy immediately and, in three days, she was able to play with her cat again.
A Unique Testing System I use a range of treatment regimens when I work with my clients–including something very special–an individualized, natural therapy that is based on a testing system that is truly unique. I have used it successfully for many years to treat a variety of conditions. It’s called EAV (Electro-Acupuncture According to Voll), and it’s an electrodermal screening of acupuncture points. Dr. Reinhold Voll, a German medical doctor and anatomy professor, invented this system in the late 1940s. Since then, it has been transformed into an even more effective unit than the original.
Popular in Europe EAV is well known and popular in England, Western Europe, and Eastern Europe. There are innumerable articles about the EAV testing and treatment system, both for the scientific and lay communities. But, unfortunately, EAV is not well known by patients and health care providers in the USA. Perhaps the reason for its limited use in the U.S. is that it takes years of experience to test in the right way and to be able to properly interpret the readings. During an assessment, the patient holds a brass rod, which is plugged into the EAV unit. This rod carries a minute amount of current. A second, pen-like rod also is plugged into the EAV unit, and when it is used to touch certain acupuncture points it may provide readings that correspond to the disease state of the body organs.
Westside Chiropractic, LLC Dr. Richard Duenas
Chiropractic Physician • Board Certified Neurologist
Natural Health Care for Family and Friends West Hartford / Hartford 557 Prospect Avenue (860) 523-5833 www.westsidechiropractors.com 28
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In addition, if an item is placed on a testing tray (located within the circuit), the patient’s readings change. This makes it possible to test foods, allergens, toxic chemicals, and even microbes, in order to discover if they ameliorate or exacerbate a patient’s condition. Knowing the possible cause of a condition is 50% of treatment success. The other 50% comes from taking the right remedies. The EAV system also has a unit that imprints information about causative factors of a condition into the design of an individualized patient’s remedy.
Pinpointing the Cause In my practice EAV helps me differentiate between diseases that have similar symptoms. For example, cardio-vascular conditions may have symptoms similar to hyperthyroid conditions. Eva, gorgeous and a sweetheart of a young woman in her 20s arrived at my office with symptoms of heart racing, shortness of breath, and swollen ankles. When I assessed her heart and her thyroid gland with EAV, I learned that she had an autoimmune condition of the thyroid gland (caused by a toxic viral infection). Her heart and cardiovascular system tested as normal. I made a remedy for the thyroid gland based on testing results. I also used the EAV to identify the best Oriental botanicals for her condition. Within two weeks of taking the remedies, she started feeling better. After two months of following the treatment plan, she repeated her blood work and had a thyroid ultrasound. Her medical doctors were amazed that her results were normal. Since that time her
thyroid gland function has been normal. She called me several times during the following years to inform that she got pregnant and had two beautiful babies. I was really happy for her. Keep in mind that the conventional medical treatment for a hyperthyroid condition could lead to a side effect of infertility. Mary, a health-oriented lady in her 70s, had gastro-intestinal discomfort for a number of years. EAV revealed that her problem stemmed from an issue in her upper right molars. Mary’s dentist addressed her dental problem. Many of my patients experience positive changes in their conditions after using the EAV. This screening test is non-invasive and is very reliable in the hands of a skilled practitioner. Sometimes it may show early changes that are not detectable with the methods of conventional medicine. I consider EAV one of the most natural tools for evaluating health and for designing a natural treatment plan. Dr. Elena Sokolova, MD, ND is a graduate of the prestigious First Medical Institute of Leningrad in Russia, where she served as a primary care physician for over 18 years. Dr. Sokolova has also trained extensively in Family Medicine, Botanical Medicine, Homeopathy, Traditional Chinese and Tibetan Medicines. She is one of the few experts world-wide in the area of Visceral Manual Therapy, the art and science of rehabilitation of intestinal, bilary and liver function. Dr. Sokolova received her naturopathic degree at the University of Bridgeport School of Naturopathic Medicine. She practices naturopathic medicine at Whole-Body Medicine located at Merritt Parkway Exit 47 at the Fairfield/Trumbull townline. Visit www.wholebodymed.com or call 203-371-8258. See ads this page.
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Mothers...Gaining A New Perspective on Health Care
By Ann Aresco, ND
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his Mother’s Day, we should all be grateful to the women in our lives who ensure our daily health through simple yet critical actions, such as providing nutritious meals, ensuring adequate hydration, and enforcing consistent sleep schedules. Since I’m both a mother and a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.), these are values that I work to instill in my children, family, and patients every day. Mothers are the primary purchasers in most families, so their increasing awareness of issues such as GMOs (genetically modified foods), pesticides, processed foods, and chemical additives has a big impact on children and their health care. I use the term health care because the whole foods that we consume, along with the quality of our sleep and the number of hours that we exercise, are the most essential pillars of our overall health. We simply can’t operate or perform at our best, or prevent illness, without first achieving these naturopathic goals.
Nutrition Must Come First When I ask patients about their diets they often confess, “I don’t have time to eat well.” This is especially concerning if the patient is a parent, since this lack of proper nutrition affects the entire family. Today’s parents are frazzled with full- and part-time jobs, parenting, homework, soccer, karate lessons, and ballet lessons. Something has to give, because it’s simply impossible to do it all. Often what gets pushed aside is nutritional food. Sure, schoolwork, exercise, and learning the piano are important. But in order to perform these functions, solid nutrition must come first. Children (and adults)
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can’t learn well or run quickly if they don’t have sufficient fuel from whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and good sources of protein. These foods should be served to your children daily. A meal should not consist of mostly processed food. There are simple ways for busy people to work whole food into the daily menu. From crock-pot cooking to juicing, there are ways to make healthy food quickly; you just have to look into what will work for your family. Eating a lot of processed food doesn’t work for anyone’s family.
Are You Eating Food that Starves Your Body? Unfortunately, malnourishment is far more rampant in the U.S. than many people realize, and it can interfere with proper development and growth. People often think that because they are eating something—anything, they’re not starving. But the reality is that if you only eat vacuum-sealed prepared food, then you are starving your body of what it truly needs to function. As a mom and N.D., I suggest that families take a look at the food that they consume—and at the food they throw away. A recent report on food in the U.S. stated that 30% to 50% of Americans’ food is thrown in the trash, most of which is fruits and vegetables. Think about all of your health care that is thrown in the garbage! Do we not put enough value on fresh food, so we don’t mind throwing it out? If this is the case, then we need to pay more for it. I would be willing to bet that people who buy organic, non-GMO food throw out a lot less than people who buy cheaper, processed food. The other obvious contributing factor is that fresh food spoils faster. Food that is rich in vitamins and minerals tends to degrade quickly, but is used more readily and efficiently by the human body. So while shelf-stable food may last a long time, it simply does not provide enough nutrition. Another challenge for mothers who are racing through their days is to avoid giving in to children who fall prey to TV commercials that peddle sugary cereals, billboards that promote fast-food meals that come with toys, and colorful, cartoon-filled, junk-food packaging at the supermarket. The reason there are so many tempting ad campaigns for unhealthy food is because marketers need to convince you, and SELL you, on the idea of purchasing their overprocessed food. Organic farmers don’t need to convince you that their products are good for you.
Buy Whole Foods and Read Labels Learn how to cut through the marketing clutter and really read labels. Is that loaf of bread fresh, made with only whole grains, and perishable? Or is it bleached white-flour bread that is processed with a little bit of whole grains so that they can slap a misleading label on it? I advise my patients to avoid putting items in their grocery carts such as “cheese foods,” brightly colored gummy “fruitlike” snacks, or chicken nuggets cut into the shape of dinosaurs that barely resemble poultry. The human body has not evolved to handle junk food, GMOs, and chemicals. We teach our children how to eat, and for better or worse, these habits can last a lifetime. Submitted by Ann Aresco, ND. To learn more about naturopathic medicine, or to find a licensed naturopathic doctor near you, visit ProNaturalPhysicians.com. All ProNatural Physicians Group NDs are providers for most major insurance carriers. ProNatural Physicians Group, LLC is a network of naturopathic doctors who serve patients throughout Connecticut. The member-based organization provides administrative support such as insurance coding for service reimbursement and insurance credentialing. Interested NDs may contact Dr. Ann Aresco for membership information. ProNatural Physicians Group, www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com, ProNaturalPhysicians@ comcast.net, 860-505-0702, 355 New Britain Road, Kensington, CT 06037. See ad on page 20.
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STRESS…
What Is It Good For? By Laura Mignosa, NCCH
A
ccording to an article by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, stress makes you sick. It has the power to cause heart attacks, strokes, and chronic disease. These findings have nothing to do with faith or fad; impeccable experiments show that the brain and the immune system, traditionally thought to have no biological connection, are in fact not separated at all.
Stress at Work One of the most fascinating studies on stress and illness involved 400 U.S. air traffic controllers. An initial health study was done in early 1970s. In 1983, mass layoffs followed a strike. Even before the strike, more than half the controllers had high blood pressure by their late 30s. Perhaps that is not surprising given the rapid-fire decision making required in such a high-pressure job. Follow-up research in 1993 showed that a higher-than-normal percentage of the con-
trollers developed cancer or heart disease. It was not the earlier physical health of these controllers that best predicted who would get those serious illnesses later, it was the psychological factors. According to Esther Sternberg, who directs the National Institutes of Health’s research on how brain hormones affect disease, those who felt the most alienated or traumatized by job upheavals were at peak risk for cancer and coronaries. This message should not be lost on employers today, she says. Her new book, “The Balance Within: The Science Connecting Health and Emotions,” explains the western understanding of what we call stress, and its relationship to disease.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with more than 5000 years of history, sees emotions as bringing disharmony to our
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bodies. TCM is the most practiced form of healing in the world and it bears witness to what is now considered science in our world. It is the belief that each energetic organ of our body not only serves a physical function, but also an emotional and spiritual one. The basis of Chinese Medicine is that, to stay well, we must nurture our body in all ways; through our daily work, the food we choose to eat, the people we choose to associate with, and the love of self and community.
Types of Stress are Linked to Specific Organs Stress is an umbrella word that lumps all emotions into one. That is not the way TCM sees it. The emotion of over-thinking and worrying is determined by how strong our digestion or “Spleen” is to counter that state of being. The energetic Liver is responsible for the smooth spreading of all emotions and cycles and is the organ that will be in disharmony when anger, resentment and feeling stuck in life are evident. The Heart’s emotional component is the ability to express joy or find peace of mind. Lungs play a key role in expressing repressed grief of any type (not just the loss of a loved one), and the Kidney is the organ that, when out of balance, will make you feel unsupported in life and fear will become more prevalent than trust. To just say, “I am stressed out,” does little to identify the root cause of your emotional imbalance. This is the reason that Chinese Medicine, in its many forms,
can isolate and help alleviate the symptoms of what we call stress today. Soul searching to uncover the reason for our uneasiness and emotional pain is part of the process of healing. Many people find Talk Therapy helps them in this area. Others use prayer and chanting, while others may find breath work like Qi Gong, Sun Do or Yoga to be their path to a more stress-free life.
Acupuncture/Acupressure The use of acupuncture and/or acupressure helps release emotions that have stagnated and are now causing a physical imbalance. Chinese Herbal Therapy is another way to help the body find its way back to a more fulfilling and empowering life.
Guilt Affects Almost Every Organ Another emotion that has no roots in the ancient wisdom of Chinese Medicine is Guilt. It is exhibited often in today’s society and impacts almost every organ. There is absolutely no mention of this emotion in the old texts and yet in today’s world it brings such pain to so many people. That pain becomes stress, of course, and if untreated it will absolutely cause disharmony in the physical body. Guilt does not exist in the Chinese psyche for those who practice the religion/philosophies of Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism. We see guilt manifest in many different ways today. It is inwardly-directed and its object is the self. In this sense, it is almost the opposite emotion of anger, which is usually directed at another person.
Balance Chinese Medicine balances emotion with the physical signs and symptoms of many chronic and acute diseases, treating emotions that are deeply imbedded in our minds and hearts. Laura Mignosa is a Nationally Certified Chinese Herbologist and has been the Director of the Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies in New Britain, CT since 1995. She takes Appointments for Chinese Herbal Care at the school (912 Corbin Ave., New Britain), and can be reached at 860-826-2705. Visit her website,CTHerbschool.com, and her Facebook Page, Laura Mignosa, for information on events and classes offered each month. See ad on page 17.
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REMEDIES
Michael Dworkin, P.D., M.S. Erika Dworkin, Dip. C.N. (Pend.)
Nutritional Supplements to Improve Memory & General Brain Function Most people have brain damage and don’t know it. Anyone over age 40 needs to be concerned about this issue. ~ Russell L. Blaylock, MD, Neurosurgeon An estimated 10 million baby boomers will develop Alzheimer’s in their lifetime. The disease commonly begins after age 60, and risk rises with age. Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in Americans overall, and the 5th among those over 64. www.medicineworld.org; Life Extension Magazine, (March/April 2013) Have you been experiencing memory loss, especially the kind caused by aging? Do you ever misplace items you use every day, forget names or recent or past events, or have difficulty learning new material? Memory loss may start suddenly or come on slowly, and may be permanent or temporary. If yours is mild-to-moderate, you may be able to slow or even reverse it with nutritional supplements and lifestyle changes.
How the Brain Remembers The area of the brain that is involved in the memory process depends on the type of memory and the type of information it contains. For example: (1) the pre-frontal cortex temporarily stores and processes short-term memories (information that will be needed in the next several seconds or minutes); and (2) the hippocampus orchestrates the processes related to long-term memories (the hippocampus, surrounding cortical structures, and neural pathways connecting these structures to the cortex are all involved in the memory of facts and events).
Memory Loss: Definitions & Causes While the entire subject of memory loss goes far beyond the scope of this article, this discussion aims to remove some of the mystery and fear around it. Everyone occasionally experiences forgetfulness. Mild memory loss tends to increase with age and is generally no cause for concern. However, there is a difference between mild memory loss due to normal aging, and progressive or extreme memory loss. A person can lose either short- or long-term memory, and one type of loss does not necessarily accompany the other. Short-term memory loss is quite common and often results from brain artery blockage. The numerous causes include prescription drugs (e.g. statin drugs to lower cholesterol), excess stress (especially over time), substance abuse, pain, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Dementia, a group of symptoms caused by gradual death of brain cells, is a “loss of mental ability severe enough to interfere with normal activities of daily living, lasting more than six months, not present since birth, and not associated with a loss or alteration 34
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of consciousness.” The loss of cognitive abilities that occurs with dementia leads to impairments in memory, reasoning, planning, and behavior/social skills. While most people with dementia are elderly, it is not an inevitable part of aging; rather, it is caused by specific brain diseases. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, arises from the degeneration and death of both brain cells and the connections between them in the cerebral cortex. The brain becomes clogged with neurofibrillary tangles (twisted masses of protein fibers inside nerve cells) and senile plaques (composed of parts of neurons surrounding a group of sticky proteins called amyloid beta deposits). A slow, chronic starvation of the brain as we age may be a key trigger of a biochemical process that causes some forms of AD. One study, published in Neuron by Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, found that the brain’s failure to get enough glucose launches a process that ultimately produces amyloid beta. The study’s author indicated that improving blood flow and increasing delivery of glucose to the brain, especially with vasodilators (e.g., ginkgo biloba, L-arginine), might prevent or treat AD, and people may be able to prevent dementia if they “start early enough.”
The Natural Approach Below are just a few of the supplements that have been shown in human clinical or lab studies to support brain and memory function:
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) The amino acid acetyl-L-carnitine supports mental acuity by preserving the powerhouses of brain cells (mitochondria), improving blood flow, protecting against toxins, and assisting with the transport of fatty acids (e.g., DHA) between cells. One 1998 clinical trial conducted at Stanford University School of Medicine found that this nutrient slows the progression of AD in subjects in their early 60s. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2008) established that ALC can reduce fatigue and boost mental function in people over age 70. Combining ALC with Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinol) enhances ALC’s activity.
Curcumin/Turmeric As noted in the Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, curcumin (from turmeric), an ancient Indian herb, has been used to treat dementia and TBI. It also has a potential role in the prevention and treatment of AD since it combats inflammation, decreases amyloid beta plaques, delays degradation of neurons, chelates metals, and is a powerful antioxidant.
Human clinical studies have shown that a patented curcumin formulation (BCM-95) greatly enhances the bioavailability of this herb, which is generally difficult to absorb. This form not only delivers up to seven times better absorption than ordinary 95% standardized curcumin, but also remains in the bloodstream for 8 to 12 hours, almost twice as long as conventional supplements.
DHA (Fish Oil) According to multiple studies, including one published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2008), those with lower intake levels of omega-3 fatty acids are at greater risk for AD. DHA, one component of fish oil: (1) protects brain tissue from ageinducing inflammatory damage from oxidative and other stresses; (2) stimulates physical changes that underlie learning and memory; and (3) promotes healing after brain tissue injury from seizure, stroke, or TBI. Largescale epidemiological studies reveal that consuming an average of 3g/day of fatty fish reduces by 19-23% the risk of mild cognitive impairment, which can progress to AD. This translates to daily doses of high-quality fish oil containing 1,400 mg EPA and 1,000 mg DHA.
Magnesium L-Threonate Magnesium is critical to brain function. In particular, magnesium L-threonate restores degraded neuronal connections, thereby improving learning and memory. Lab studies demonstrate that higher levels of magnesium
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favor amyloid beta breakdown. Magnesium levels are markedly lower in AD patients, and the degree of deficiency of this critical mineral correlates with the severity of the disease.
Phosphatidyl Choline (PC) The body uses phosphatidylcholine to make the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, critical for memory. Since PC increases acetylcholine, there is keen interest in using it for improving memory and AD.
Pregnenolone
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Derived from cholesterol, pregnenolone is the parent hormone from which all other vital steroid hormones are made, including DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Aging results in a dramatic decline in production of both pregnenolone and the hormones for which pregnenolone is a precursor. Science has linked decreasing levels of these essential hormones with many disorders that commonly accompany aging, including cognitive decline. Supplemental pregnenolone thus supports youthful cognition by contributing to optimal hormone levels, supporting activity of acetylcholine (damage to the acetylcholine-producing system in the brain has been shown to be associated with AD memory deficits), and promoting nerve cell growth in the brain’s hippocampus. However, because pregnenolone can affect hormone levels, those with hormonally related cancers (e.g., prostate and breast cancers) should avoid it.
Lifestyle Choices To lower your dementia risk right now, try: (1) eating healthier; (2) avoiding being overweight/obese; (3) staying physically active; (4) breaking addictions to sugar, smoking and prescription/illicit drugs; (5) managing your prescription side effects and drug-drug interactions; (6) sleeping 6-9 hours/night; (7) challenging your mind (see www.lumosity.com, WordsWithFriends); (8) managing your stress with cortisol-lowering nutritional supplements (e.g., Relora®), yoga, and deep breathing/meditation; (9) maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels; and (10) taking anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplements.
Conclusion While conventional medications cannot prevent progressive brain deterioration, numerous nutritional supplements have been shown to bolster brain function and slow or prevent dementia. Regardless of which nutrients you choose, ideally in combinations, they will more likely be effective if you start using them early, long before memory loss symptoms appear. Submitted by Michael Dworkin, PD, MS, CCN, a Registered Pharmacist and Connecticut Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CT Cert. No. 232), with J. Erika Dworkin, Nutrition Consultant, Certified Lifestyle Educator, Board Cert. Holistic Nutrition (pending). Owner of the Manchester Parkade Health Shoppe (860.646.8178, 378 West Middle Turnpike, Manchester), Pharmacist Dworkin has been guiding patients since 1956 and is available for consultation by appointment. Erika is available to speak to groups and for weight loss consultations. References are available upon request. See ad on page 5.
Happenings Wednesday, May 1st Autism Is Treatable! 6:30-8pm. Free. Eileen C. Comia, MD. Learn the science behind Autism Treatment. Give your children hope of a good future! St. Francis Care, 1502 Hopmeadow St. (Rte.10) Simsbury, CT. Please call (860) 2422200 to RSVP. Seats are limited. Attendance is FREE and open to the public. For more information, visit www.AdvBiomedTx.com.
Thursday, May 2nd Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. 7pm: Respecting Your Rhythms, with Dr. Leigh White, ND of Natural Family Health. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden. 203-407-8128. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. The Four Agreements Series. 6:30pm-8:30pm. $20. Also May 9, 16 & 30. Transform your life using core beliefs of The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. See how your thoughts and beliefs affect you and prevent you from living a life of authenticity and love. Learn tools and techniques to quiet the mind, remove the chaos and distress your life. 36 Cheshire Rd. Wallingford. Gayle @203-265-2927, sunnispirit@ sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love. Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. 7pm. Respecting Your Rhythms, with Dr. Leigh White, ND of Natural Family Health. Acknowledging innate natural rhythms & making choices to live with respect to them can increase natural wellbeing and vitality, in both physical and emotional ways. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden. 203-407-8128. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com Spring Open House! Join Us for an Evening of Wellness. Complimentary chair massage and mini-spa services. Raffles for a VitaMix, Massage and more. 7-9pm .Glastonbury Naturopathic Center, 18 School St. Glastonbury. Call 860-657-4105 to reserve your space. www.naturopathicwellness.com.
Friday, May 3rd Free Blood Pressure Screening Volunteers of YNHH/St. Raphael. 11:30 – 1pm. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden. 203-407-8128. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. Ladies Night Out with Dori Sargent. 7:30pm, $16 prepay (class cards accepted), $20 at the door. A class for all levels. Relax and rejuvenate. We will move and breathe into bliss
together with exercises to strengthen, support, and empower ourselves as feminine beings. Class requires 3 person minimum signed up to be held. Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury CT 860-657-9545 www.sacredriversyoga.com 21 Day Spring Detox. 7:45 - 9 pm. $99 plus $15 materials fee. Through May 24th. Join Pauline Weissman, certified nutritionist, for this exclusive guided 21 day spring detoxification program. The detox program consists of an initial session and a closing session and includes: individualized coaching on how to conduct a safe and effective detox, supportive materials including grocery lists, menu plans and recipes, an optional supplement program at discounted prices. Register online now at www.westhartfordyoga.com/whyworkshops or call the studio at 860-953-9642. Free Blood Pressure Screening. Volunteers of YNHH/St. Raphael. 11:30 - 1. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
Saturday, May 4th Information Session on The Graduate Institute’s Master of Arts in Learning and Thinking. Learn about a graduate program with a holistic, learner-centered approach to education. 11 am to 1:00 pm at Capitol Region Education Council (CREC), 111 Charter Oak Ave, Hartford, CT. RSVP online at www.learn.edu/events or call (203) 874-4252 for more info. Free Reiki at Thyme & Season: Tranquil Healing Reiki provided by Usui Reiki Master Anita Jones. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden. 203-407-8128. www. ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. CT Women’s Confidential. A Tell All Expose Event: Desperate Husbands Reveal All! 9:0012:00pm $97. Featuring Jeff Forte, Certified Marriage Educator, Dr. Diane Hindman and a panel of outrageous, fun-loving, tell it like they see it highly successful men who will hold nothing back in this closed door event! Discover the 7 secrets all successful marriages have in common. Learn what men really want in a relationship and what they crave but won’t ever say. Win a one night stay for two at Chez Fiona in Norwalk and British afternoon “Tea for two” with Champagne. Stamford Hilton. Also June 8th at the Farmington Marriott. Register at www.ctwomensconfidential.eventbrite.com. Info at www.ctwomensconfidential.com. World Labyrinth Day Walk & Clinic. 12:30-4 pm. Free. There will be an orientation to labyrinths, then we’ll Walk as One at 1, joining others around the globe walking at 1 pm in their
time zone. A free holistic wellness clinic with energy healing, sound healing and channeling follows. Sponsored by Alliance For Holistic Living, www.afhlnow.org. Ravenwood Holistic Wellness Center, 199 West Center Street, Manchester, CT. No advance registration, just walk-in. Free Reiki at Thyme & Season: Tranquil Healing Reiki provided by Usui Reiki Master Anita Jones. First & 3rd Saturday of Every Month! All are welcome, Free, No reservation required; Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com Usui Reiki level 2. 11:30 am-5:00pm $200.00. With Reiki Master Carol Hipkins at Purple Turtle Wellness, 1 Grist Mill Rd Simsbury. www. onthepathofhealing.com. 860-413-3592 Reiki II. 9am. – 5pm. $150.00. Receive attunements to higher frequencies of universal energy and enhance your healing work. Learn how to do distance healing, as well as heal mental, emotional and past life issues. Participants receive a manual and certificate. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For information please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.
Sunday, May 5th Women’s Empowerment Meditation. 10am. – 12noon. $25.00. This guided meditation is specifically designed to the energy of the group. We invite in our angels and guides to help us release those things that keep us stuck. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com. Journey to the Heart: A Yin Yoga Workshop with Tracey Sondik. 12pm, $35. Yin Yoga has been called “A quiet practice” through longer holdings of postures designed to target the connective tissues exercised very much in a more active asana practice. Participants will learn 6 primary Yin sequences that will strengthen, nurture, and support the body. Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury CT 860657-9545. www.sacredriversyoga.com. Chinese Herb Series. 1 - 3pm. $78.00. Also May 12, 26th. Introduction to Chinese Herbal Therapy, Chinese Herbs to Maintain and Regain Health, Chinese Herbs to Calm the Spirit Laura Mignosa, Nationally Certified Chinese Herbologist, www.CtHerbschool.com. 912 Corbin Ave. New Britain, CT. 860-TCM(826)2705.
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Happenings Sunday, May 5th Harmony Yoga Dance. 4-5pm $27. Also May 12th. First class next class FREE or $22 per class. Everyone is a dancer and this is dancing from the inside out using evocative music that gets your body to move without concerning your mind about the “right dance steps”! It is about the breath and the union of the mind body and soul thru dance and thru yoga. No mats or shoes needed. Harmony Yoga Studio, 48 Union St Stamford. www.harmonyogastudio. com.
Monday, May 6th Circle of Love/Spiritual Empowerment Group. 6:30pm – 8:30pm. $20. Also May 20. Meet together with “like minded” spiritual people to enhance your spiritual empowerment through meditation and other tools and techniques. Delve deep within ourselves to bring forth and enhance our ability to tap into our divine energy. 36 Cheshire Rd. Wallingford. Gayle @203-265-2927, sunnispirit@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.return2love. QiGong. No Cost. 1:15-1:45pm Instructor: Risa Brophy, MQT. Join us to calm your mind and energize your body with the deep breathing and slow movements of these ancient Chinese exercises. Note: Please, eat your lunch before or after this program. The Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 1 Northwestern Drive, Suite 101, Bloomfield. To obtain additional information or to sign up for this class, please email Bloomfield@InstituteofIMT.com or call 860243-6571.
Tuesday, May 7th So you want to be a Medium? 6:30pm. – 9pm. $50.00. Participants will learn the differences between mediumship and psychic ability, how to receive messages clearly and how to know who you are working with in the spirit world. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.
Wednesday, May 8th Healing in Harmony Night. 5pm. – 7pm. FREE. Participants will sit individually with a healer and receive an 8 – 10 minute healing. No reservation required. You will be served in the order in which you enter the center. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. For information please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.
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Community Lecture. No Cost. 6-7:30pm Instructor: Ayelet Connell-Giammatteo, Phd, PT, IMTC. Learn natural & gentle hands-on techniques to reduce pain and fatigue, improve learning, reduce constipation, and promote a general feeling of well-being. 1 Northwestern Drive, Suite 101, Bloomfield, CT06002. To obtain additional information or to sign up for this class, please email Bloomfield@InstituteofIMT. com or call 860-243-6571.
Thursday, May 9th Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. Allergies – It’s That Time Again. Dr. Ann Mitchell, ND, of Advanced Allergy Relief. 7pm. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden. 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. Wholistic HCG Fat Loss Program. Free Educational Seminar. Reach Your Weight Loss Goal at Last. Learn how you can lose up to 30 pounds in 40 days with our UNIQUE, safe and effective, medically supervised weight loss program! 6-7pm Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School St. Glastonbury, CT. Call 860-657-4105 to reserve your space. www.naturopathicwellness.com.
Friday, May 10th
“Move Better, Feel Better” Alexander Technique Intro Class. Free. 9am-10am. Do you experience tension or fatigue? Do you wish you had better posture and balance? In this class you will begin to investigate how you use your body and explore ways of moving with less tension. Offered by Eric Miller, certified Alexander Technique teacher. Please call 860-656-6177, or email eric@millerAT.com to register, space is limited. Miller - Alexander Technique, Farmington, CT. www.millerat.com. CELIAC: Greater New Haven Celiac Group Pancake Breakfast. 9:15 – 11:30am. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 55 North Main St., Wallingford. Gluten free food, discussion, info. RSVP by May 4th to RobertJManning@sbcglobal.net. $5 for non-members & children over 12.
Sunday, May 12th Crystal Singing Bowls Meditation. 6pm. $20.00. Sound vibration is the primary mover for change, effectively shifting an individuals vibrational level to re-establish physical, emotional and mental and spiritual well-being. Recipients often experience a sense of balance, reduction in pain, release of stress, feelings of well-being, joy, confidence along with more energy and clarity of thought. Connecticut Yoga Center, 91 Beverly Heights Rd., Middletown,CT. http://www.ctyogacenter.com. (860) 986-2017.
May Market. 10-4pm. Enjoy Hill-Stead Museum’s lush grounds and historic setting as you browse over 75 exhibitors with unique crafts, perennial and annual plants and flowers, and antiques for home and garden. This year’s featured speaker is Carolyne Roehm, former designer for Oscar de la Renta. General admission: $12; museum members $10; children 12 and under, free (admission price includes all activities except keynote speaker fee). Fee for keynote speaker is $45 (includes general admission fee). Contact Becky Trutter at (860) 677-4787 ext. 132 or trutterb@hillstead.org.
A Gong and Himalayan Singing Bowl Meditation with Priscilla Gale. 7:30pm, $15. Everything in and around our bodies resonates to sound. Sound therapy has long been shown to strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure, reduce stress, relieve pain, improve sleep patterns and help with depression and anxiety. Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury CT. 860-657-9545. www.sacredriversyoga.com.
Saturday, May 11th
Wednesday, May 15th
Nordic Pole Walking Class. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring your water bottle. Everything else is provided, all ages are welcome! 10am-11am. Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School Street Glastonbury Ct. Class fee $10.00. Call 860-657-4105 to reserve your space. www.naturopathicwellness.com. Psychic Saturday. 10am – 4pm $25.00 for a 20-minute reading. Receive a private reading with Medium Priscilla Bengtson. Other readers may also be available. Receive guidance from your angels, spirit guides and loved ones. Pre-scheduling is highly recommended. Held at The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To pre-schedule an appointment, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.
Tuesday, May 14th
“Art & Healing-Loving What Is Unloved.” Women’s Expressive Art Group. Also meets May 22, 29 & June 5. 5:30-8:30PM $175. Experience the quiet power of your authentic visual voice to reveal imagery that offers honesty, beauty and comfort to aspects we may have pushed aside. Connect with your own radiant source of love through art. Multi media art supplies will be used. Facilitated by Elisabeth Moss BFA Certified Expressive Art Facilitator. To register call 860-550-0882. Classes held at 12 Old Farms Rd. Avon. No previous art experience needed!
Thursday, May 16th Turn It Around Movie. 6-7:30 p.m. By donation. Witness on screen the transformative power of The Work of Byron Katie®. Experience for yourself this simple process that offers a way to turn your stressful situations and relationships around. Certified Facilitator Joy Karim. To register/for more info., call Joy at 860-796-9461 or email joy@theworkwithjoy.com. Institute of Integrative Manual Therapy, 1 Northwestern Drive, 1st Floor, Bloomfield. Dowsing for Underground Water Veins. 7-8:30 pm. Free. The availability of clean drinking water is becoming a top priority. Learn how to search for clean, underground water both on site and remotely on a map. Bring a pendulum and dowsing rod if available. Dennis and Joyce Custer of Granby facilitate. Sponsored by Alliance For Holistic Living, www.afhlnow. org. Ravenwood Holistic Wellness Center, 199 West Center Street, Manchester. No advance registration. Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. The ABC’s of Supplements, w/ Dr. Tracy Kreider, ND. 7pm. What to take when & why. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
Friday, May 17Th Gallery Night. 6:30pm. – 8:30pm. $45.00. Enjoy an intimate evening of learning about angels and guides and experiencing intuitive readings with medium and certified Angel Therapy Practitioner®, Priscilla Bengtson. Seating is limited and pre-registration and pre-payment are required. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.
Saturday, May 18th Free Reiki at Thyme & Season: Tranquil Healing Reiki provided by Usui Reiki Master Anita Jones. First & 3rd Saturday of Every Month! All are welcome, Free, No reservation required; Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. Deepening Your Relationship with Your Mother. 10-11:30 a.m. $90. 4-week class. 5/18-6/8. Our mothers gift us with much throughout our lives, baggage included! Their apparent harsh words and actions can cut to our core, leaving us depressed, hurt and angry. Question your stressful beliefs about your mother through The Work of Byron Katie®, and you may uncover a new, peaceful, loving relationship. Contact Joy Karim at 860-796-9461 or joy@theworkwithjoy. com. 935 Main Street, Manchester, CT. www. TheWorkwithJoy.com.
Get Your Toes Wet! Intro to Expressive Art. 12:30-3:30 $35. A playful spacious atmosphere allows you to open and trust the artist within. Create authentic imagery using collage, paint, and drawing materials. Guided meditation helps us relax beneath worry & words into our intuitive creative flow. Faciliated by Elisabeth Moss BFA Certified Expressive Art Facilitator Held at 12 Old Farms Rd. Avon. To register call 860-550-0882. No prior art experience needed! Feng Shui For Your Brain. 1-5pm. A unique opportunity to experience Master Feng Shui practitioner, Val Biktashev as he removes your blocks to success, freedom, and happiness. Learn how to use this ancient Chinese method to free yourself from the limitations that hold you back. Cost: $50. Flamig Farm, 7 Shingle Mill Rd. West Simsbury. Information & Registration: http://feng-shui.eventbrite.com.
Sunday, May 19th Become a Client Magnet with Mission-based Marketing with Marcie Mauro. 9am, $75. You’re clear about what you do, but are your prospective clients? It’s time to create a breakthrough for your business with marketing that’s in alignment with your authentic spirit. This workshop is for teacher trainees and RYTs. 3 CEUs available. Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury CT. 860-657-9545. www. sacredriversyoga.com. Feng Shui For Your Brain. 1-5pm. A unique opportunity to experience Master Feng Shui practitioner, Val Biktashev as he removes your blocks to success, freedom, and happiness. Learn how to use this ancient Chinese method to free yourself from the limitations that hold you back. Cost: $50. Holy Name of Jesus Church, 50 College Street (in the Community Center -Corner of Rt. 1 and College St.), Stratford. Information & Registration: http:// feng-shui-stratford.eventbrite.com.
Tuesday, May 21st Reiki Share. $10.00 open to the public.With Reiki Master Carol Hipkins. Purple Turtle Wellness, 1 Grist Mill Rd Simsbury. www.onthepathofhealing.com. 860-413-3592.
Thursday, May 23rd Sound Healing Meditation with Tibetan Singing Bowls and Drums. 7-8:30 pm. $20. Lisa Burch, LCSW and Marna Walter, RN facilitate. Relax with this blend of guided imagery and sound healing. Bring a mat, pillow and blanket, chairs also available. Spirit Matters, 199 West Center Street, Manchester. Www.SpiritMattersCT.com. Advance registration recommended: 860-7835597. Walk-ins as space allows.
Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. Digestion: You Don’t Have To Live With Grouchy Guts w/ Dr. Amanda Levitt, ND. 7pm. Learn how to deal with IBS, GERD, indigestion. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com. 3 Day Juice Fast and Cleansing Group! Cleanse your body, Purge toxins, Lose weight and Feel great! Receive a free introductory session on the Biomat, and enjoy organic treats! 6-7pm. Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School St. Glastonbury. $199 per person. Call 860-6574105 to reserve your space. www.naturopathicwellness.com. Ascended Masters/Full Moon Meditation. 6:30-8:30pm. $20 Join us for the combined energies of the full moon and ascended masters for a very powerful meditation. No experience necessary. Divine beings will be guiding and supporting you on your quest to discovering your true authentic self. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Gayle @203-265-2927 or sunnispirit@ sbcglobal.net.
Sunday, May 26th Family Yoga with Beth Agdish. 9am. $10 for adults, $5 for kids. Explore the benefits of family yoga as we have fun with downward dog, tree, cobra and more, in a safe environment to move and breathe. Yoga calms and centers the growing body and mind. Sacred Rivers Yoga 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury CT. 860-657-9545 www.sacredriversyoga.com.
Wednesday, May 29th Abundance/Manifestation Series. 6:30pm8:30pm. $87 – Also Jun. 5, 12, 19. 4 Session Series. Learn how to focus your intent and energy to create and manifest abundance in all its forms. Discover the keys to open your gates to allow and accept that which is rightfully yours. 36 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford. Gayle Franceschetti@203-265-2927 or sunnispirit@ sbcglobal.net, www.return2love.net. Home Message Circle. 6:30pm. – 8pm. $15.00. The session is open to anyone who wishes to practice their mediumship message delivery in a group. Your ability doesn’t matter as we are all here to get some practice and learn from each other. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www.healinginharmonycenter.com.
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Happenings Thursday, May 30th Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. Sugar: We Love It, But Is It Killing Us? 7pm. With Dr. Robin Ritterman, ND. Learn how sugar effects your body; learn alternatives. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
Friday, May 31st Meet your Angels and Guides. 6:30pm. – 9pm. $50.00. During this workshop you will learn about your primary spiritual guides and guardian angels. Through meditation, we will meet them and receive information from them on how they would like to work with you. The Healing in Harmony Center, 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury. To register, please call 860.301.1468 or visit www. healinginharmonycenter.com.
Saturday, June 1st Free Reiki at Thyme & Season: Tranquil Healing Reiki provided by Usui Reiki Master Anita Jones. First & 3rd Saturday of Every Month! All are welcome, Free, No reservation required; Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
Thursday, June 5th Thyme & Season Free Health Talk. Fat: The Good, The Bad and the Getting Rid Of It, w/ NDCandidate Elise Panza. 7pm. Learn the essential good fats, and which to avoid. Learn more about this wrongly demonized nutrient & how to use it to reduce inflammation, reduce cholesterol, promote overall wellness, and even to help you lose weight. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. www. ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
Friday, June 7th Free Blood Pressure Screening. Volunteers of YNHH/St. Raphael. 11:30 - 1. Thyme & Season Natural Market, 3040 Whitney Ave, Hamden, 203-407-8128. Certified Nutrition Counselor to assist you M-F 9-5. www.ThymeAndSeasonNaturalMarket.com.
ONGOING Monday Yoga Bootcamp. 9:00am, $5. Try yoga with a kick! This strength-inducing power class will build heat, sweat and stamina and challenge yogis of all levels. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc.com.
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Zumba. 5:30pm, $5. It’s an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party™! Join us for a full, fun hour of sweating off the calories and have fun doing it!. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc.com. Vigorous VInyasa Yoga. 6:30pm, $5. In this dynamic, challenging class, you will be guided through a series of asana coordinated to the flow of your breath. Standing and seated postures, backbends, hip openers, and inversions flow together to form a seamless dance- like movements deepening the awareness of your breath. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc.com.
Tuesday QiGong/Tai Chi Classes. 7:30pm. $60. Learn how to gain more energy, balance your energy, emotionally & physically, free yourself from pain and stiffness, strengthen your immune system, relax, rejuvenate and get a great night’s sleep. Feel Great! Marcey Hickey Certified Instructor. Suffield By The River, 7 Canal Road, Suffield, CT. Call 860844-8535 to register. Conscious Living Relationship Tools Series. Ongoing Second Tuesday’s, begins March 12th. 7-9pm. $20.00 Lynda Aldorisio, Certified Life Coach. The intention of this series is to learn how to end power struggles, criticism, get unstuck from recurring patterns; to communicate authentically/ listen consciously. Come explore/discover essential relationship tools to create more harmony/ vitality/love/creativity. Spirit Matters, 199 West Center Street, Manchester, CT. 2 Day Registration. lyndaaldo@yahoo.com. Ph. 508-962-0009. Reiki Share and Healing Circle April 16th.Every 3rd Tuesday of the month. 6:30pm -8:30pm $10.00 open to the public. Purple Turtle Massage and Wellness, 1 Grist Mill Rd Simsbury. With Reiki Master Carol Hipkins. www.onthepathofhealing.com. 860-413-3592. Yoga Bootcamp. 9:00am, $5. Try yoga with a kick! This strength-inducing power class will build heat, sweat and stamina challenge yogis of all levels. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc. com.
Wednesday Holistic Moms Network of Greater Hartford. Meetings the first Wednesday of the Month starting in May (except July and August). 6:308:30pm. First Church of Christ, 75 Main St., Farmington CT. Don’t miss our Chapter Kick Off on May 1st! Come get pampered for Mother’s Day! For general information, please visit the Holistic Moms Network website at www.holisticmoms.org or contact the organization at (877) HOL-MOMS.
Thursday Yoga Bootcamp. 9am and 5:45pm, $5. Try yoga with a kick! This strength-inducing power class will build heat, sweat and stamina and challenge yogis of all levels. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc.com. Detox With Dr. Dave. Every Thursday 6pm. Come join us for discussion on the importance of cleanses, facts on nutrition and supplementation and support for weight loss. No fee; no registration; just drop in! for those who attend and commit to a 14 or 28 day plan, we offer 20% off the detox kit. Osteopathic Wellness Center, 158 Danbury Road, Suite 6, Ridgefield, CT 06877. 203-438-9915.
Friday Ellington Winter Farmers Market. 4-6:30pm. Feb 1 & 15, March 1, 15, & 29. Indian Valley YMCA, 11 Pinney St., Ellington. Providing a variety of products that are grown or produced in CT, including: dairy, seafood, meats, bakery, produce, specialty foods, and artisan wares. www.ellingtonfarmersmarket.com. Tibetan Singing Bowls Sound Healing and QiGong. Let the good vibrations flow through you to alleviate pain, get a good nights sleep, become more centered & balanced. West Suffield Third Friday of every month: February 15th, March 15, April 19th. 7pm - West Suffield Congregational Church, 1408 Mountain Rd., West Suffield, CT. More info call Marcey 860-844-8535. $10.00 per person bring pillow, mat, blanket and water.
Saturday Zumba. 9:30am, $5. It’s an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party™! Join us for a full, fun hour of sweating off the calories and have fun doing it!. mission Fitness, 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT, 860-657-8608. www.missionfitnessllc.com. Ellington Farmers’ Market. 9-12pm. Arbor Park, Main St. Ellington. May 4th-Oct 19th Local and fresh organic produce, seafood, baked goods, dairy, beef, poultry, chicken, specialty foods artisan wares and more. Weekly themes, entertainment and Kids Power of Produce Club. Visit www.ellingtonfarmersmarket.com for a complete schedule of events. ellingtonfarmersmarket@ gmail.com.
Sunday Community Acupuncture. 1-2:30 pm. $30. May 5 & May 26. We provide effective, affordable, and high quality acupuncture care in a peaceful warm comfortable environment. Points will be individually chosen based on your main health issue, tongue and pulse diagnosis. Treatments take place in a group setting and last an average of 40 minutes. No pre-registration. 23 Brook STreet, West Hartford CT. 860-953-9642. Jen@Westhartfordyoga.com.
Acupuncture
Dentistry
Stan Baker, L. Ac., Dipl. Ac. Menla Holistic Health, 35 Nod Road, Ste. 106 Avon, CT • (860) 836-1068.
Dr. Steven Hinchey 2249 New London Turnpike South Glastonbury, CT. (860) 633-6518 www.dentistryfordiabetics.com/drhinchey See ad on page 20.
Glastonbury Naturopathic & Acupuncture Center 18 School St. Glastonbury, CT • 860-657-4105 Dr. Helene Pulnik, RPh, MS, ND, L.Ac. www.naturopathicwellness.com info@naturopathicwellness.com See ad on page 23. Sophia Natural Health Center Kenneth Hoffman, L.Ac., CCH 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804. (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com See ad on page 20.
Child Birth Preparation Birthing From Within Childbirth Preparation Giedre Kere (Mentor, Birthing From Within® (203) 554-7249 • doulagiedre@gmail.com www.birthingfromwithin.com ®
Chiropractic Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury 2934 Main St.,Glastonbury, CT 860-657-8800 • www.glastonburychiro.com See ad on page 16. Westside Chiropractic 557 Prospect Avenue, West Hartford,CT (860) 523-5833 • westsidechiropractors.com See ad on page 28.
Allergy Treatment Wholistic Allergy Solutions 18 School St. Glastonbury, CT • 860-657-4105 Dr. Helene Pulnik, RPh, MS, ND, L.Ac. www.naturopathicwellness.com info@naturopathicwellness.com See ad on page 23.
Colon Hydrotherapy Glastonbury Naturopathic Center 18 School St. Glastonbury, CT • 860-657-4105 Dr. Helene Pulnik, RPh, MS, ND, L.Ac. www.naturopathicwellness.com info@naturopathicwellness.com See ad on page 23.
Dentistry The Canaan Gentle Dentle & Implant Center Dr. Thomas Livingstone 3 Railroad St. North Canaan, CT (860)824-0751 • www.livingstonedental.com See ad on page 13.
South Windsor Smiles Kevin Norige, D.M.D. Matthew McCabe, D.M.D 112 Deming St., South Windsor, CT. (860) 644-0113 • See ad on page 2.
Green & Sustainable Interior Design Put It Together, llc Judie Ricciardi Heritage Center,464 Heritage Road, Suite 1B Southbury, CT 06488 • 203-263-7836 Email: putittogetherllc@cs.com www.putittogetherllc.com M-Th 9:30 am-4:30 pm, Fri. until noon.
Health Food Stores Parkade Health Shoppe Manchester Parkade, 378 West Middle Tpke, Manchester, CT • 860.646.8178 M-Sat 8am-9pm • Sun 9am-6pm See ad on page 5.
Holistic Centers Center for Holistic Practices & Psychotherapy 963 Queen Street, Suite C Southington, CT 06489 • (860) 276-5843 www.centerforholisticpractices.com See ad on page 30.
Holistic Health PANACEA - Healing for Body and Sole LLC Barb Porlides Access Consciousness Techniques, Reflexology, Etheric Weaver Healing, Ionic Detox Foot Baths 101 River Rd., Canton, CT 860-294-1296 • www.panaceahealing.com
Hypnosis Diane Bahr-Groth, C. Hy., TFT, Dir. 1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT. (203)595-0110 • mindbodytransformation.com See ad on page 33. Lisa Zaccheo, MA, BCH, BCI Board Certified Hypnotist & Instructor Mind Matters Hypnosis Center 12 Waterside Court, Avon, CT 06001 (860)693-6448 • MindMatters@comcast.net www.mindmattershypnosis.com
Resources Hypnosis Michele P. Rousseau, MA, CH 267 William Street, Middletown, CT 06457 860-704-9054 • mprousseau@sbcglobal.net www.micheleprousseau.com
Hypnosis/NLP/Aura Chakra Analysis Nishanto Kane...MindDesigning. Hypnosis, Master NLP Practitioner, Aura/Chakra Analysis, Enneagram Profile, Astrology Chart, Interpretation, Belief Change Sessions. Simsbury, CT. (860 658-9678) • www.minddesigning.net
Integrative Medicine New England Integrative Health Associates, LLC (NEIHA) 345 North Main Street, Bishop’s Corner West Hartford, CT 06117 Ph. 860.278.3812 • Fax: 860.525.6054 Email: info@neihact.com • See ad on page 15.
Life Coach PEAK Results Coaching Jeff Forte, CSIC, CME 2389 Main St., Glastonbury, CT 06033 (860)633-8555 • peakresultscoaching.com See ad on page 33.
Partners In Spirit
Ellen Gilhooly 22 Maple Ave Windsor, CT 06095 (860)490-2027 • http://www.partnersinspirit.com
Massage Wholistic Spa 18 School Street, Glastonbury, CT. 06033 860-657-4105 • www.wholisticspa.com See ad on page 23.
Naturopathic Medicine CT Natural Health Specialists Lauren Gouin, ND 135 Center St., Manchester, CT (860) 533-0179 • www.ctnaturalhhealth.com See ad on page 26. Debra Gibson, ND 100 Danbury Road, Ste. 102 Ridgefield, CT 06877 • (203)431-4443 See ad on page 2. Glastonbury Naturopathic & Acupuncture Center 18 School St. Glastonbury, CT • 860-657-4105 Dr. Helene Pulnik, RPh, MS, ND, L.Ac. www.naturopathicwellness.com info@naturopathicwellness.com See ad on page 23.
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Resources
Nutrition
Skincare
Holcare Nutrition Vicki Kobliner MS RD 3 Hollyhock Lane, Suite 2A, Wilton, CT 06897 203-834-9949 • www.holcarenutrition.com See ads on page 33.
Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center Melissa Martin, 16A Ensign Drive, Avon. (860)284-9730 • www.anewyouskincare.net Melissa@anewyouskincare.net See ad on page 32.
Physicians, M.D.
Spa/Floatation Services
Naturopathic & Acupuncture Health Center Dr. Marie Mammone, ND Dr. Renee Mammone, ND John Mammone, Licensed Acupuncturist 274 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield, CT 06109 (860)529-1200 • www.NAHcenter.com
Advance Biomedical Treatment Center, LLC (formerly Avon Therapeutic Center) Eileen C. Comia, M.D. 35 Jolley Dr., Ste., #102 Bloomfield, CT 06002 Tel 860.242.2200 • Fax 860.242.2212 www.AdvBioMedTx.com • See ad on page 35.
iFloat 163 Main Street. Westport, CT 06880 Phone: 203-26-7378 Website: ifloatspa.net • Email:info@ifloatspa.net
William Nager, ND, DC 11 Mountain Ave., Ste. 201, Bloomfield, CT, 06002 (860) 242-8277 • www.drbillnager.com
Natural Health & Healing, LLC Deanna M. Cherrone, MD 60 East Main Street, Avon, CT. (860) 677-4600 • naturalhealthandhealing.net See ad on back cover.
Sophia Natural Health Center 31 Old Route 7, Brookfield, CT 06804. (203) 740-9300 • SophiaNaturalHealth.com See ad on page 20.
Tamara Sachs, MD Functional Medicine & Integrative Care 15 Bennitt St., New Milford, CT (860) 354-3304 • www.tsachsmd.intranets.com
X to Rays, LLC Suzanne Pyle, MS, CCT 35 Boston Street, Guilford, CT 866.986.7297 or 203 331-2878 www.xtorays.com
Naturopathic Medicine Kensington Naturopathic Medical Center Dr. Ann Aresco 355 New Britain Rd, Kensington, CT (860) 829-0707 • drannaresco@comcast.net kensingtonnaturopathic.com See ad on page 20.
The Wellness Institute Marvin Schweitzer, ND 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk, CT (203) 847-2788 See ad on page 14. West Hartford Naturopathic Medicine Frank Aieta, ND 301 N. Main St., West Hartford, CT (860) 232-9662 • www.DRAIETA.com See ad on page 13. ProNatural Physicians Group LLC 355 New Britain Road Kensington, CT 06037 • 860-505-0702 www.ProNaturalPhysicians.com ProNatural Members Dr. Ann Aresco 355 New Britain Road Kensington, CT 06037 P: 860-829-0707 • F: 860-829-0606 E: draresco@comcast.net • See ad on page 20. Dr. Rick Cooper 258 Main Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 P: 203-229-0164 E: contact@rickcoopernd.com Dr. Marcos de Escobar 171 Grandview Avenue, Suite 101 Waterbury, CT 06708 P: 203-757-9336 E: cosnd1@gmail.com Dr. Summer McAllister 71 East Avenue, Suite D Norwalk, CT 06851 P: 877-437-3537 • F: 917-456-0362 E: drsummermcallister@gmail.com Dr. Jonathan Ritz 37 West Town Road Lebanon, CT 06249 • P: 860-281-7489 E: drjon@drjonritz.com
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Osteopathic physcian Osteopathic Wellness Center, LLC David L. Johnston, DO • Lisa Preston, DO 158 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877 (203) 438-9915 • www.osteopathicwellness.net See ad on page 15.
Psychotherapist Inner Change Holistic Counseling Deni Weber, MA, LPC, DCEP Weston, CT. • 203-544-6094 DeniWeber.com
Relationship Coach PEAK Results Coaching Jeff Forte, CSIC, CME • Relationship Coach 2389 Main St., Glastonbury, CT 06033 (860)633-8555 • peakresultscoaching.com See ad on page 33.
Schools Connecticut Institute for Herbal Studies LauraMignosa, NCCH 912 Corbin Ave, New Britain, CT 06052 (860) TCM-2705 • www.ctherbschool.com. See ad on page 17. The Graduate Institute Leslie Cahill, Director of Admissions & Recruitment. (203) 874-4252 • www.learn.edu See ad on page 2.
Thermography
Vibrational/Energy Healing The Healing in Harmony Center Priscilla Bengtson, ATP® 99 Citizens Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033 (860)632-8434 • healinginharmonycenter.com See ad on page 28.
Veterinary Care Mobile Pet Vet Kim Rio, DVM (203)584-1210 • www.mobile-pet-vet.com
Yoga / Pilates Centers Sacred Rivers Yoga Paula Scopino LMT, E-RYT 500 IAYT, Owner 2934 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033 PH. 860.657.9545 • FAX. 860.657.3161 www.sacredriversyoga.com. See ad on page 16. Sacred Movement Yoga 10 Simsbury Road (Bishop’s Corner) West Hartford, Connecticut 06117 860.990.2555 • www.mysacredmovement.com. Visit our Facebook page! mission FITNESS 80 Commerce Street, Glastonbury, CT 860-657-8608 • www.missionfitnessllc.com Visit our Facebook page!
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Deanna Cherrone, M.D.
Board certified Internal Medicine Functional Medicine practitioner
“Do you believe you should feel better than you do?” I help restore balance so that you can look, feel and function your best. Areas of Focus: • Adrenal Fatigue • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Bone Loss • Detoxification • Food Sensitivities • Heavy Metal Testing & Oral Chelation • Leaky gut • Menopause & Andropause • Mind Body Medicine
Many of my patients are simply looking for someone who will listen.
Functional Medicine explores the root cause symptoms: Fatigue • Brain Fog • Sugar Cravings • Headches • Depression • Stress & Anxiety • Decreased Libido • Aches & Pains • Decreased Stamina • Constipation • Allergies • Inability to Lose Weight • Insomnia Dr. Cherrone, founder of Natural Health & Healing, provides Functional Medicine with emphasis on patient education and self care for optimal health.
Call Dr. Cherrone toDay at (860) 677- 4600
• Neurotransmitter Testing • Nutritional & Lifestyle Counseling • Thyroid • Weight Loss
60 East Main Street, Avon CT. 06001 www.naturalhealthandhealing.net 44
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