Dr. Arturo M. Volpe

A recent study (Environmental Health Perspec, June 2000;108 (Suppl 3): 433-438) reveals that certain common environmental chemicals can alter thyroid function by acting directly on the thyroid or by affecting centers in the brain that regulate thyroid function. These chemicals, known as PCBs and dioxins, are widespread in today’s environment. This may explain why low thyroid function and many related disorders, including depression and weight gain, have become so common.

A far more disturbing finding of the study is that, in animal models, these chemicals impaired brain development in early life. In humans, adequate thyroid function is essential for brain development starting several months before delivery through the first two years after birth. Based on this information, thyroid deficiencies could be a contributory factor in today’s epidemic of neurological disorders in children such as ADD and ADHD.

Tags: Chemicals & Environmental Issues, Thyroid issues
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BSE, commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, has recently spread to several European countries and led to widespread avoidance of beef and beef products by consumers. However, it may be that this disease is not transmitted by eating infected meat but rather through exposure to organophosphate pesticides. This theory, and the compelling evidence that supports it based on the research of Cambridge University scientist David R. Brown, can be reviewed in a December 13, 2000 article posted on the Irish website http://www.eionews.com.

Interestingly, exposure to these same pesticides has also been linked to the increasing incidence of Alzheimer’s disease, although this link has not yet been proven. In humans, exposure to organophosphates occurs through some head lice shampoos, often used in children, and through anti-flea products for pets. However, organophosphate-free substitutes for these products can be found.

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In a 1997 study (Neuropsychobiology, 1997;35:16-23) the effects of the drug Amantadine on patients with chronic fatigue syndrome were compared with L-carnitine. While Amantadine is a commonly prescribed anti-viral drug, L-carnitine is a natural amino acid derived from protein. It plays a vital role in energy production and fatty acid metabolism. Results revealed that, while Amantadine was poorly tolerated and did not lead to improvements, carnitine had virtually no side effects and led to clinical improvements in 12 of 18 parameters studied.

In an unrelated study (Cardiovascular Drugs Ther, 1999;13:537-546), 20 patients suffering from class II or III cardiac insufficiency received L-carnitine supplements for 120 days. After 60 days of supplementation, the group achieved significant improvements in performance, and these improvements were still maintained at 180 days, or 60 days after supplementation was discontinued.

Tags: Chronic Fatigue
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A group of newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients were given fish oil, a multiple vitamin and basic dietary advice. Results proved that these measures led to a significant reduction in exacerbation rates of the disease (Acta Neurol Scand, 2000; 102:143-149).

Although outside the scope of this study, testing the stool for certain types of “unfriendly” bacteria, and ordering a simple hair analysis to check for toxic metals, can also be of value in the natural management of MS.

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A recent study (Environmental Health Perspec, June 2000;108 (Suppl 3): 433-438) reveals that certain common environmental chemicals can alter thyroid function by acting directly on the thyroid or by affecting centers in the brain that regulate thyroid function. These chemicals, known as PCBs and dioxins, are widespread in today’s environment. This may explain why low thyroid function and many related disorders, including depression and weight gain, have become so common.
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Tags: ADD/ADHD, Chemicals & Environmental Issues
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