Dr. Arturo M. Volpe

Two recent studies have shown that DHEA can help restore bone mass. In the first study (Clin Endocrinol, 2000;53:561-568) 10 women and 8 men in their 70’s were given 50 mg of DHEA daily for 6 months. At the end of this period, the bone mineral density of their total body, including the spine, increased; fat mass decreased; and fat-free mass increased.

A second one-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in France (Family Practice News, Nov. 1, 2000:24) also found that in 70 women aged 60 to 69, those receiving DHEA had an increase in bone mineral density, while those on placebo suffered a loss.

Tags: Bone Issues
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A recent study published in the Journal of Rheumatology (2000;27:2343-46) found that shifting dietary balance away from omega 6 oil (commonly found in vegetable oils) and towards omega 3 oil (found in fish oil) significantly alleviates symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

In this study, subjects were instructed to restrict their dietary intake of omega 6 oil, then one group received fish oil supplements and another group received olive oil. Researchers found that after 15 weeks the fish oil group exhibited “statistically significant improvements in 6 of 9 measures of disease activity”. Improvements included less pain, fewer tender and swollen joints, and reduced stiffness. No significant improvements were observed in the olive oil group. Fish oil contains certain fatty acids that have been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory action with no side effects. The best results are obtained when fish oil is used in combination with diet changes and other synergistic nutrients.

Tags: Arthritis
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In a 1967 study, 60 patients with obstructive emphysema and bronchitis were able to bring their symptoms under control and stop using steroid medications when they adopted a grain-free diet. The study, entitled “Food allergy = its role in the symptoms of obstructive emphysema and chronic bronchitis,” was published in the Journal of Asthma Research (9/67;5(1):11-20). Unfortunately, studies such as this have been quickly forgotten, and few follow-up studies have been made. Today, just as in 1967, food is still the single most important factor in health and disease; however, it is rarely considered as such by mainstream healthcare providers.

Tags: Food Allergies
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A recent study published in the Journal of Rheumatology (2000;27:2343-46) found that shifting dietary balance away from omega 6 oil (commonly found in vegetable oils) and towards omega 3 oil (found in fish oil) significantly alleviates symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

In this study, subjects were instructed to restrict their dietary intake of omega 6 oil, then one group received fish oil supplements and another group received olive oil. Researchers found that after 15 weeks the fish oil group exhibited “statistically significant improvements in 6 of 9 measures of disease activity”. Improvements included less pain, fewer tender and swollen joints, and reduced stiffness. No significant improvements were observed in the olive oil group. Fish oil contains certain fatty acids that have been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory action with no side effects. The best results are obtained when fish oil is used in combination with diet changes and other synergistic nutrients.

Tags: Fish Oil
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A double-blind, placebo-controlled study (J Int Med, 2000;248:377-386) looked at 52 men and 58 women who had elevated cholesterol levels and thickening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). These individuals were given a placebo, vitamin E, vitamin C, or both Vitamins E and C.

After three years, the researchers found that in individuals receiving both vitamins, the increase in thickness of the arteries was reduced by 74%, a very significant result. Those who were given only one vitamin had more modest benefits, and no side effects were noted. .

Tags: Antioxidants, Cataracts
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