Hormones and blood

Nut Cereal

There are many hormones that assist in the production of blood cells and platelets, regulating blood pressure, protection of blood cells and blood clotting.  Where a patient has constant issues with blood pressure or keeping adequate levels of iron, analysis of hormones should be considered.

Erythropoietin (EPO, haematopoietin or haemopoietin)

Erythropoietin is produced mainly in the kidney, by interstitial cells.  Once the hormone is made it protects red blood cells against destruction.  It also stimulates stem cells of the bone marrow to increase the production of red blood cells.

Angiotensin

Angiotensin is a hormone that helps regulate your blood pressure by constricting (narrowing) blood vessels and triggering water and sodium intake.  Angiotensin is part of linked hormones, enzymes, proteins and reactions called the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

There are four different forms of angiotensin: Angiotensin I–IV.  Angiotensin II is the main and active form of the hormone.  If your body has too little or too much angiotensin, it can cause health issues.

Angiotensin II binds to several receptors and affects many different systems and functions, including:

  • Stimulating the release of aldosterone from your adrenal glands, which causes your body to retain sodium and lose potassium through your urine.
  • Increasing blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels.
  • Triggering the sensation of thirst through your hypothalamus.
  • Triggering the desire for sodium through your hypothalamus.
  • Stimulating the release of antidiuretic hormone from your pituitary gland, which causes your kidneys to reabsorb water. (1)

Thrombopoietin

Thrombopoietin is the chemical mediator that regulates the number of platelets in the blood by stimulating an increase in the number and growth of megakaryocytes, thus controlling the rate of platelet production.

Vasopressin

Vasopressin is known as an antidiuretic hormone.  It maintains the appropriate volume of water in the space that surrounds cells within the body.  It plays a role in regulating circadian rhythm, maintains the body’s internal temperature, blood volume and the proper flow of urine from the kidneys.  Nerve cells at the base of the brain (hypothalamus) make and transport vasopressin to the pituitary gland, which then releases the hormone into the bloodstream  If your body produces too much vasopressin, your kidneys may retain water.  If you don’t have enough vasopressin, your kidneys may excrete too much water.  This causes frequent urination and can lead to dehydration, as well as low blood pressure. (2)

Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands.  It supports the regulation of blood pressure mainly by acting on organs such as the kidney and the colon to increase the amount of sodium reabsorbed into the bloodstream and to increase the amount of potassium excreted in the urine.  Aldosterone also causes water to be reabsorbed along with sodium; this increases blood volume and therefore blood pressure. (3)

Hepcidin

Hepcidin is a peptide hormone produced in the liver that plays a crucial role in iron production and uptake.  Serum iron levels must be tightly regulated to ensure an adequate supply is available for hemoglobin synthesis, without allowing iron overload to occur in the body.  Hepcidin decreases the level of iron by reducing dietary absorption and inhibiting iron release from cellular storage.  Too much hepcidin can lead to problems like iron deficiency, where your body doesn’t absorb enough iron.  Too little hepcidin can cause iron overload, where your body absorbs too much.

Prostaglandins

Most hormones are produced by glands and transported in the bloodstream.  Prostaglandins are produced at the site where they are needed, are produced in nearly all body cells and are part of the body’s way of dealing with injury and illness, where there is inflammation, pain and fever.  When a blood vessel is injured, a prostaglandin called thromboxane stimulates the formation of a blood clot; a muscle in the blood vessel wall contracts to try to prevent blood loss.  Another prostaglandin called prostacyclin has the opposite effect to thromboxane, reducing blood clotting and removing any clots that are no longer needed and causing the muscle in the blood vessel wall to relax.  The opposing effects that thromboxane and prostacyclin have on the blood vessels can control the amount of blood flow and regulate response to injury and inflammation. (4)

References:
  1. Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.-a). Angiotensin. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23359-angiotensin
  2. Cassata, C. (2023, September 22). What is vasopressin? EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/vasopressin/guide/
  3. Aldosterone | You and Your Hormones from the Society for Endocrinology. (n.d.). https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/aldosterone
  4. Prostaglandins | You and Your Hormones from the Society for Endocrinology. (n.d.). https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/prostaglandins/

 

 

 

Hormones involved in Digestion

gut health

The gut is a major producer of hormones, with more than 20 known hormones being responsible for controlling food intake, digestion of food, energy expenditure and influence the pleasure of eating.  Some of these digestive hormones target the brain and work in association with the enteric nervous system and is often why the gut is known as the “2nd brain”.

Some of the well known hormones are below:

Gastrin

Gastrin is a hormone that is produced in the lining of the stomach and upper small intestine and is released into the bloodstream.  During a meal, gastrin stimulates the stomach to release hydrochloric acid, which then allows the stomach to break down food and absorb certain vitamins such as vitamin B12.  Gastric acid also acts as a disinfectant.  Gastrin can stimulate the gallbladder to empty its store of bile and the pancreas to secrete enzymes.  Gastrin also stimulates growth of the stomach lining and increases the muscle contractions of the gut to aid digestion. (1)

Ghrelin

Ghrelin is a hormone that is produced and released mainly by the stomach with small amounts also released by the small intestine, pancreas and brain.  It is known as the ‘hunger hormone’ because it stimulates appetite, increases food intake and promotes fat storage.  Ghrelin levels are actually higher in people with lean body weight compared to those who are overweight.  High levels of Ghrelin have also been found in people with certain cancers, anorexia nervosa and cachexia. (2)

Glucagon

Glucagon is made by the pancreas and helps regulate your blood glucose (sugar) levels.  Glucagon increases your blood sugar level and prevents it from dropping too low, whereas insulin, another hormone, decreases blood sugar levels.

Insulin

Insulin is released from the Pancreas and is essential for helping your body use glucose for energy.  If your body cannot produce enough insulin, or your body cannot use the insulin being released, it causes high blood sugar levels.  In most people insulin lowers blood sugar levels, stimulates metabolism of glucose, protein, and fat.  The inability to produce insulin by destruction of beta cells in the pancreas, creates an autoimmune condition which results in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and those diagnosed require injections of insulin for the rest of their lives.  Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is when the body cannot properly use insulin, and is often a result of poor eating and lifestyle habits which results in insulin resistance. (3) (4)

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)

IGF is a hormone that your body makes naturally in the liver and acts much like insulin.  It used to be known as somatomedin.   IGF helps to control growth hormone secretion in the pituitary gland.  IGF works with growth hormones to promote growth and development of bone and tissue.  These hormones also affect how your body metabolizes sugar, or glucose.  IGF and insulin can work together to rapidly reduce the level of glucose in your blood.

Leptin

Leptin is a hormone released by body fat that helps your body maintain normal weight on a long-term basis.  It does this by regulating hunger by providing the sensation of satiety (feeling full).  As leptin is created by stored body fat, the higher level of body fat means a higher release of leptin.  This signal should mean that the person stops eating.  For those on weight loss protocols, as your body fat decreases, your leptin levels decrease, which may signal your body to think that it is suddenly in starvation, which it clearly is not.  This feeling of starvation can stimulate hunger and appetite and can lead to increased food consumption.  (5)

Gastric Inhibitory Peptide (GIP)

GIP is a member of the secretin family of hormones.  It was discovered in extracts of intestine that inhibited gastric motility and secretion of acid, and initially called enterogastrone.  It is secreted from mucosal epithelial cells in the first part of the small intestine.

GIP enhances the release of insulin in response to infusions of glucose.  For this action, it has also been referred to as glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide.

Secretin

Secretin is a digestive hormone secreted by the wall of the upper part of the small intestine (the duodenum) that regulates gastric acid secretion and pH levels in the duodenum.  When hydrochloric acid passes from the stomach into the duodenum, secretin is released into the bloodstream and stimulates the duct cells of the pancreas to secrete water and bicarbonate.  By this mechanism, hydrochloric acid secreted by the stomach is diluted and neutralized.  Secretin also inhibits the secretion of gastrin, which triggers the initial release of hydrochloric acid into the stomach, and delays gastric emptying. (6)

References

  1. Gastrin | You and Your Hormones from the Society for Endocrinology. (n.d.). https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/gastrin/
  2. Ghrelin | You and Your Hormones from the Society for Endocrinology. (n.d.). https://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/ghrelin/
  3. (2023, December 6). Type 1 diabetes | Diabetes Australia | Diabetes Australia. Diabetes Australia. https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/type-1-diabetes/
  4. Healthdirect Australia. (2021, November 4). Type 2 diabetes. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/type-2-diabetes
  5. Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.-d). Leptin & Leptin Resistance. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22446-leptin
  6. Utiger, R. D. (1998, July 20). Secretin | Definition & Function. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/secretin

 

 

How to Lose Weight Safely and For Good 

Woman in field of lavender

Despite the wide range of diets available, one in three Australians is overweight or obese. Research shows that a different, healthier approach to weight management works better in the long term than restrictive dieting. This focuses on wellness rather than weight loss.

The holistic wellness programme that I recommend to my clients includes:

· Self-compassion.

· Tools to ease yourself into habit change.

· Nourishing food.

· Jump-starting your metabolism.

Self-compassion

Many people have an unkind inner critic who drains them of motivation and stops them believing that change is possible. They berate themselves, get stressed and eat to self -soothe. However self compassion is not the same as being soft on yourself.

Kristin Neff, Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and author of Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, defines self-compassion as taking good care of yourself, taking the longer view about what would be nurturing for your mind, body and soul rather than looking for short term gratification.

So while one day we might feel down and remember that eating a large bar of chocolate made us feel better in the past, a more self-compassionate approach would be to do something else that also lifts the mood and is healthy.

Habit Change Tools

We often know what would be a healthier option for us but fail to follow through. Changing ingrained habits can be tough – perhaps possible with strong willpower but, in the long term, we tend to revert back to our old ways.

Dr Judson Brewer, an addiction psychiatrist in the USA (fondly known as Dr Jud), has spent much of his working life looking at how our brains work. What he has found is, when we really experience the full effects of our habits on a deep level in our body, if these habits are harmful to us, our brains will reprogramme themselves so that these habits become less attractive.

Dr Jud uses three steps to support habit change.

Habit Change Step One

He encourages his clients to map out a habit that they would like to change. This involves breaking the habit into three steps:

1. The trigger that causes us to act.

2. The behaviour.

3. The reward/result.

For example, you might come home after a hard day’s work, tired and hungry, then mindlessly over indulge in a sugary snack and afterwards feel bloated and disappointed in yourself. The trigger would be being tired and hungry. The behaviour overeating and the reward/result feeling bloated and disappointed in yourself -not such a reward really.

Habit Change Step Two

This is exploring all the results of this habit – the physical sensations in your body, emotional responses and any thoughts.. How do you feel after finishing the packet of chips?

Habit Change Step Three

Then, only when you have taken time to become fully aware of all the effects of this habit would you start changing your behaviour by replacing it with what Dr Jud called a bigger, better option. You might choose to do a short breathing exercise to get past the craving or to go for a short walk – anything that helps you feel better and healthier.

This is just a short summary of this method . For more information, please see the resources at the end of this article.

Nourishing Food

One important element to regaining your health and managing your weight is eating nourishing wholefoods, organic if possible. While everyone has different dietary needs, these are the main principles apply, whether you are vegan, vegetarian or eat meat:

· Avoid foods to which you have an intolerance or are allergy.

· Eat a varied, plant based diet to ensure you have enough fibre and phytonutrients to help your body work optimally.

· Avoid or at least minimise foods and drink rich in sugar, salt and fat such as fizzy drinks takeaway, chocolate, cakes, lollies and cookies.

· Eat protein rich food with every meal and snack to keep your blood sugar levels steady and avoid energy slumps. Think meat, fish, lentils, dried beans, nuts and seeds.

· Keep hydrated and filter your water, if possible, to avoid toxins.

Jump start your metabolism

If you have been eating junk food and living a sedentary lifestyle, it’s time to be kind to your liver and get your metabolism and digestion working well again by:

· moving more – this can be as simple as getting up every half an hour to stretch and take a short walk.

· giving your body the rest it needs both by having a good night’s sleep and taking mini breaks during the day to de-stress.

· reducing/cutting out alcohol.

· drinking plenty of water – often we think we are hungry and, in fact, we are thirsty. Drinking enough water helps our brains and bodies feel better and work optimally.

You are enough now

While we are bombarded with images of slim, athletic people on screen, if you look around you’ll notice that is not what the average Australian looks like. People come in all shapes and sizes and that makes life interesting.

Think about someone you find attractive and you might notice it’s much more than what they look like. It’s often their sense of humour and the way they make us laugh – or common interests and values that we share. So be gentle with yourself. Life is short and enjoy where you are now while you celebrate gradually easing yourself into a healthier lifestyle to feel better and more energised.

Resources:

Websites:
Dr Kristin Neff: Exploring the Meaning of Self-Compassion and its Importance self-compassion.org
Dr Jud: Habit Change Made Simple drjud.com

Books:
A Week of Mindful Eating Changing the Habits of a Lifetime by Sarah Isaacs
Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr Kristin Neff
The Hunger Habit: Why We Eat When We’re Not Hungry and How to Stop by Dr Judson Brewer

Find out what you are made of

Have you ever walked around a health food shop or browsed the isles of the supermarket looking for something to make you feel more energetic, sleep better or lose weight?  If so, you are one of the many people who self-diagnose and prescribe natural remedies to feel better.  Is this effective, or do you end up with a drawer full of supplements that “just don’t work”? 

At Torrens University Australia, The Practice Wellbeing Centres, we believe in a two-pronged approach to wellness.  The first step is to evaluate your overall wellbeing with a personalised consultation.  Personalised consultation evaluates your individual health status, taking into account your health history, diet, lifestyle and other social determinants of health.  Deep understanding of these factors allows your health professional to ensure any treatments are tailored to your needs. 

The second step is to evaluate your body composition using a tool called a Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA).  BIA assesses a wide range of body composition markers including weight, body mass index, basal metabolic rate, intra and extracellular water, muscle mass, fat mass, skeletal mass, biological age and a range of other useful markers. Not only does a BIA take measurements of the whole-body composition, it is also able to provide measurements for specific limbs, which can be very useful, particularly for people looking to optimise physical functionality.  

A comprehensive personalised consultation with BIA may help with:

  • improving physical health 
  • weight loss or weight gain 
  • enhanced athletic performance 
  • recovery from an injury 
  • prevention of disease 
  • healthy ageing 
  • monitoring of treatment efficacy 

It’s important to note that BIA is not suitable for pregnant women and individuals with electrical implantable devices.  

What is Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)?

Health professionals around the world commonly use BIA because it is a non-invasive, low cost, fast and reliable approach that provides valuable insights into their client’s general health and wellbeing. Used in conjunction with a full consultation, BIA allows the practitioner to understand your baseline health, adjust treatments to suit health and disease risk profile and monitor treatment efficacy. 

How does BIA work?

Bioelectrical impedance analysis is very similar to standing on a set of scales. In addition to measuring your weight, BIA devices can also take very precise measurements of your body tissue composition by sending a low frequency electrical current around the body. As the current travels around your body, the BIA device constantly measures the resistance of the tissue it is travelling through. For example, the current travels quicker through blood, less quickly through muscle, less quickly through fat and even less quickly again through bone. In less than one minute, the BIA device calculates the composition of your body based on the resistance of the current travelling through your tissues. Following that,  it presents this information in a comprehensive, user-friendly report.  

How can BIA help me?

Undertaking a BIA is useful for a number of reasons. Firstly, BIA is a great tool for establishing baseline markers. Maybe you are looking to achieve a goal weight (ie. lose weight or put on muscle)? By taking comprehensive baseline measurements, it is easier to track your progress with subsequent BIA scans and to fine-tune your dietary and exercise regimen to optimise results.  

Secondly, BIA provides an insight into the composition of your body, allowing for highly individualised dietary and lifestyle recommendations. For example, the BIA can provide insight as to how much fat tissue you have, where it’s distributed throughout your body and whether or not it may be posing a risk to your health. 

Thirdly, BIA can be useful in identifying a potential issue before it becomes a problem. If you were to get a BIA every 3–4 months, changes in body composition can be closely monitored. For example, your fat mass might be slowly increasing and your muscle mass might be decreasing over time (which is a risk factor for a number of chronic diseases). A BIA can identify these changes before they become a problem, allowing for fine-tuning of dietary habits and lifestyle practices.  

How do I get a BIA analysis done?

At The Practice Wellbeing Centres  in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Book in for a full health consultation and BIA assessment, with one of our student practitioners, today. BIA consultations take approximately 10 minutes and are done prior to a 40-minute consultation.  We recommend that you allow approximately 2 hours for your entire consultation process that also includes a debrief discussion regarding your health status, interpretation of the BIA report and individualized treatment plan.  All student practitioners at our low-cost community health clinic are supervised by expert practitioners who are at the top of their field.   

Special offer to celebrate Natural Medicine Week

To celebrate ATMS Natural Medicine Week, we are offering a free health consultation and BIA appointment during the month of June.  You can choose to book an appointment in our naturopathic, western herbal medicine or clinical nutrition clinics.  Use the code ATMS when booking your appointment. 

To ensure you don’t miss out, book your appointment now, by calling or emailing The Practice Wellbeing Centre at central locations in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. 

Our clinic details are here.  

4 ways in which Naturopaths can Support Patients with their Oncology Journey

Welcome to PROSPER, the forefront of natural cancer care in Australia.

I’m Carla Wrenn, a Naturopath and Nutritionist with a passion for supporting individuals through the complexities of cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship with evidence-based complementary medicine and integrative oncology strategies through my program PROSPER Natural Cancer Care. With over two decades of experience and accolades including the Australian Traditional Medicine Society Practitioner of the Year 2023, I’m here to support you with the knowledge and tools to navigate your cancer journey with comprehensive, personalised care, hope, and confidence.

A Holistic Approach to Cancer Support

PROSPER Natural Cancer Care embodies a multifaceted approach to oncology helping people with cancer safely blend conventional treatments with evidence-based complementary strategies. Principles of integrative oncology are laid out by the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians and Society of Integrative Oncology. Let’s explore the pillars of this comprehensive approach:

  1. Minimising Treatment Side Effects: Cancer treatments can often bring challenging side effects, impacting quality of life. Through research evident herbal, nutritional and lifestyle medicine techniques, including turmeric, green tea (EGCG), medicinal mushrooms, vitamin D, mind-body practices, and tailored dietary interventions. I aim to mitigate these effects and promote your overall wellbeing.
  2. Research-backed Supplements for Chemoprevention: Complementing conventional oncology treatments – ‘chemopreventation’ refers to the administration of a medication or supplements for the purpose of preventing disease development, addressing the ‘terrain’ of cancer growth and aiming to reduce risks to progression. Evidence-based supplements play a crucial role in addressing underlying factors or ‘Hallmarks of Cancer’ contributing to cancer progression. By safely integrating these supplements into your treatment plan, I strive to optimise outcomes and support your body’s own cancer defences.
  3. Addressing Comorbidities: Co-existing health conditions can complicate cancer treatment, influence outcomes, and affect quality of life. By addressing these comorbidities with personalised management strategies, I aim to optimise your health and resilience, while also enhancing your ability to navigate your overall longer-term wellbeing.
  4. Education on Lifestyle Medicine: Considering diet and lifestyle factors including nutrition, movement, sleep, purpose, stress management – these lifestyle factors wield immense research evident benefits in cancer prevention and management. Through education and guidance, I create a personalised plan to make informed choices that support your body’s natural healing processes.

Your Path to Empowerment

Whether you or your loved one are experiencing cancer – at diagnosis, during or after treatment; PROSPER Natural Cancer Care and complementary medicine may assist you to optimise your health, minimise side effects and promote overall well-being. While helping you feel confident to safely use natural medicines.

Don’t hesitate to reach out – you can find more information at carlawrenn.com

Steps to Acne- free Skin: A Naturopathic Perspective

Understanding Different Types of Acne 

To effectively address acne, it’s important to identify the specific type you’re dealing with, as acne manifests in various forms. 

Identification involves examining its location, appearance, itchiness, and timing. Swabs can also be used to pinpoint certain types. 

For instance, fungal acne results from an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, often seen around the hairline, forehead, temples, chest, and back. 

Cystic acne presents as deep, pus-filled cysts beneath the skin, often causing pain and scarring. 

Hormonal acne, triggered by hormonal imbalances like excess oestrogen or testosterone, typically appears around the jawline, chin, and mouth. 

Step 1: Nurturing Liver and Gut Health 

The liver and gut significantly influence acne. If the liver has sluggish detoxification, toxins will be expelled through the skin, the body’s largest organ, in the form of acne. 

Supporting the gut involves maintaining adequate fibre, water, and prebiotics intake, along with regular and gentle exercise. Hydration and consumption of nettle tea can aid kidney function. Detoxification should proceed gradually under professional guidance, starting with gentle measures like dandelion tea or supplements such as glycine and taurine. This gradual process reduces the chance of a purge of acne or a sudden worsening of symptoms. Imbalances in gut bacteria, as well as parasites, may also contribute to acne, warranting assessment through comprehensive gut microbiome tests, that can be prescribed through a naturopath.  

Step 2: Getting Blood Work Analysed by a Naturopath 

Nutrient deficiencies often get overlooked as a cause of acne. That’s why it’s important to get a thorough blood test. Your body prioritises getting nutrients to your vital organs first, so if there’s not enough to go around, your skin loses out. A blood test can also check for thyroid issues, inflammation, or major nutrient shortages. For example, many women who menstruate have low iron levels, which are important for both thyroid health and healthy skin. 

Step 3: Keeping Skincare Simple 

With so many skincare products out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But when it comes to acne, less is often more. 

Your skin’s pH balance is important—it likes to stay between 4.7 and 5.75. But a lot of modern skincare products can interrupt this balance. Using diluted white vinegar in water as a toner on your skin can help bring it back to a healthy pH and restore its acid mantle. 

Step 4: Awareness of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals 

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are always something to consider when treating acne as they can exacerbate the condition by interfering with hormonal balance. EDC’s are natural or human made chemicals that may mimic, block or interfere with the body’s hormones, which are part of the endocrine system. 

Minimising exposure to EDCs involves avoiding plastic containers, reducing the use of perfumes and harsh cleaners, and opting for gentler cleaning alternatives like vinegar and baking soda. 

Autoimmune Disease and how Toxins can Impact

Most health-conscious individuals are already aware of the presence of toxins in our environment, but despite our best efforts, we’re often limited in how effectively we can protect ourselves.

My qualifications as a naturopath and nutritionist have been able to give me the ability to unravelled some of the intricate relationship between toxins and health, particularly their profound impact on autoimmune conditions and helping others. Personally, I am affected by Autoimmune disease (Graves’ disease) and Rheumatoid arthritis and two of my family battle lupus.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage.

Despite their diversity, autoimmune diseases share common features:

  • Chronic inflammation
  • Tissue damage
  • Dysfunction of the immune system.
  • Autoantibodies
  • Remission and Flares

While the exact cause of autoimmune diseases remains elusive, emerging research suggests that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as infections by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens can stimulate the immune system and trigger an autoimmune reaction.

For others lifestyle choices and exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and pollutants, can disrupt immune function and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.

Essentially, toxins are substances that have the potential to cause harm to our bodies. They encompass a wide range of compounds, including heavy metals, pesticides, and synthetic chemicals commonly found in household cleaners and personal care products.

While our bodies possess natural detoxification mechanisms, the abundance of toxins we encounter daily can overwhelm these processes, leading to a detrimental build-up that compromises our health.

In recent years, ground breaking scientific research has brought to light the intricate relationship between toxins and autoimmune diseases. These studies have unearthed a profound connection, demonstrating how toxins can wreak havoc on the delicate balance of our immune system, ultimately exacerbating autoimmune conditions.

Toxins have been found to disrupt immune balance by activating immune cells, such as T cells and B cells, leading to an exaggerated immune response. This hyperactive immune response can result in inflammation and tissue damage, hallmark features of autoimmune diseases. Moreover, toxins have the ability to induce a phenomenon known as molecular mimicry.

Molecular mimicry occurs when toxins or foreign substances bear structural similarities to proteins in our own tissues. As a result, the immune system becomes confused and mistakenly identifies these self-proteins as foreign invaders. This confusion triggers an autoimmune response, where the immune system launches an attack against the body’s own tissues, leading to further inflammation and tissue damage.

The impact of toxins on autoimmune diseases is far-reaching, with various sources of toxins posing risks to immune health. Environmental toxins, such as heavy metals (mercury, lead), pesticides, and industrial chemicals (PCBs, dioxins), can infiltrate our bodies through inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption. These toxins not only disrupt immune function but also contribute to chronic inflammation, a driving force behind autoimmune diseases.

Food toxins, including pesticides, herbicides, and additives found in processed foods, have also been implicated in autoimmune disorders. These substances can contaminate our food supply and burden our bodies with harmful chemicals, further exacerbating immune dysregulation.

Household toxins present another avenue through which toxins can impact autoimmune diseases. Common household products like cleaners, detergents, and personal care items often contain chemicals like phthalates and parabens, which disrupt hormonal balance and immune function, potentially triggering or worsening autoimmune conditions.

Plastics, ubiquitous in our modern world, contain chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which can leach into food and beverages, posing a risk to endocrine health and immune function. Additionally, heavy metals found in contaminated water, seafood, and dental fillings can accumulate in the body over time, contributing to chronic inflammation and autoimmune dysfunction.

Moulds and mycotoxins, commonly found in damp indoor environments, have also been linked to autoimmune diseases. Exposure to mold can cause chronic inflammation and trigger autoimmune responses, exacerbating symptoms in individuals with autoimmune conditions.

Finally, excessive sugar consumption has emerged as a significant factor in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. Sugar intake can impact immune cells, particularly T helper 17 (Th17) lymphocytes, altering their metabolism and promoting inflammation, thereby increasing the risk of autoimmune disorders.

In conclusion, the influence of toxins on autoimmune diseases cannot be overstated. From environmental pollutants to food additives and household chemicals, toxins permeate our daily lives and pose significant risks to immune health. By understanding the mechanisms through which toxins impact autoimmune diseases, we can take proactive steps to minimise exposure and support immune function, ultimately empowering individuals to manage their autoimmune conditions more effectively.

To mitigate the impact of toxins on autoimmune diseases, several strategies can be adopted to reduce toxin exposure and support immune health. Prioritising organic and locally sourced foods, opting for natural household products, and incorporating regular detoxification practices can help minimise toxin accumulation in the body.

By making conscious choices to reduce toxin exposure and support immune health, individuals with autoimmune diseases can take proactive steps towards managing their condition and improving overall well-being.

Natural Medicine Week Webinar

Join us for a webinar during natural medicine week Monday May 20 at 7pm Eastern Australian Time, where we delve deeper into the link between toxins and autoimmune diseases, exploring practical strategies for reducing toxin exposure and supporting immune health.

The Inflammation and Migraine Connection

Woman touching pressure points on side of head in pain

What is migraine?

Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders and a leading cause of disability worldwide. It is thought to affect more than 10% of people globally and occurs highest in those aged 30-39 years.

In Australia, 14.9% of women patients seen in general practice are diagnosed with migraine.

It’s important to know that a migraine attack is not just a bad headache. Migraine is a neurological disorder with episodic migraine attacks that can last from a few hours to a few days or more.

Signs And Symptoms of Migraine and Migraine Attacks

How one experiences a migraine attack differs from person to person, and sometimes from episode to episode.

Headaches are one of the most noticeable symptoms. They often begin as a dull ache and grow into throbbing pain. The pain usually gets worse during physical activity and can shift from one side of the head to the other, be in the front of the head, or feel like it’s affecting the entire head.

Other symptoms can include:

  • Sensitivity to light, noise, and smells
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Cravings
  • Nausea and vomiting, upset stomach, and belly pain
  • Loss of appetite or extreme hunger, food cravings
  • Feeling very warm or cold
  • Pale skin
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision or droopy eyes
  • Diarrhoea
  • Feeling great the day before a migraine
  • Feeling terrible, anxious or depressed the day before a migraine
  • Feeling “washed out” the day after a migraine
  • Stiff or painful neck
  • Mood swings
  • Yawning more than usual

It is also possible to experience a migraine attack without a headache (known as ‘silent migraine’). In children, migraine can be experienced through mainly abdominal symptoms, rather than head pain.

Is inflammation and migraine connected?

Scientific studies have established a strong connection between inflammation in the brain and the occurrence of migraine attacks. And this makes a lot of sense, as inflammation can trigger the activation of pain pathways, resulting in migraine attack symptoms. We also know that individuals with migraine have higher baseline levels of inflammatory markers compared to those without the condition. What’s more, these inflammatory markers further increase during a migraine attack.

How to reduce systemic inflammation

As a naturopath, here are some of the ways I may support people with migraine to naturally dampen down inflammation, with the aim to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

Diet: Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet focusing on whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can have a very positive impact to reduce migraine attacks. Avoid or minimise foods that are known to contribute to inflammation, such as refined sugars, trans fats, processed meats, and excessive alcohol. I also like to encourage specific anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, turmeric, fish and blueberries.

Natural medicines: Certain supplements may help reduce inflammation. These include omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil), curcumin (a compound in turmeric), ginger, Boswellia, quercetin, green tea and resveratrol. Of course, consulting with your naturopath or another qualified healthcare professional is always recommended before trying these for yourself.

Lifestyle modifications: Stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise can help reduce inflammation. Gentle and moderate physical activity promotes circulation and supports the body’s natural healing processes.

Sleep and rest: Adequate sleep is crucial for the body to repair and regenerate. Prioritise quality sleep by establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practising good sleep hygiene.

Identifying and addressing food sensitivities: Some individuals may experience inflammation due to specific food sensitivities. A naturopath may recommend an elimination diet or testing to identify and eliminate trigger foods.

Gut health: The gut plays a significant role in inflammation. A naturopathic approach may involve improving gut health through gut healing nutrients, along with probiotics and prebiotics to address digestive issues.

Environmental factors: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as pollutants, chemicals, and allergens, can help minimise inflammation. This may involve using natural cleaning products, filtering air and water, and minimising exposure to allergens.

Individualised approach: Each person with migraine is different, and underlying factors can vary. Like other naturopaths, I take a holistic approach to consider the unique health history, symptoms, and underlying causes of inflammation to develop a personalised treatment plan.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Unravelling the Enigma

Welcome, warrior queens, to the labyrinth of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), a complex hormonal problem that affects up to 26% of women globally. Despite its prevalence, many remain undiagnosed until later stages, often seeking treatment only when fertility issues arise. But fret not, for within the realm of holistic health lie potent tools to reclaim control and rewrite your PCOS narrative.

Decoding the Complexities of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS isn’t just about missing periods or pesky pimples (jawline, oily skin); it’s a multifaceted journey marked by irregular cycles, stubborn abdominal weight gain (apple-shaped bodies), facial hair growth, and a hormonal rollercoaster (prolonged PMS symptoms). Beyond these visible symptoms lurk risks of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications, underscoring the importance of proactive management.

PCOS-The Diagnostic Odyssey

Diagnosing PCOS involves identifying two of three key indicators: hyperandrogenism (increased male hormones), oligo-anovulation, or polycystic ovaries (via transvaginal ultrasonographic evidence of a polycystic ovary OR elevated anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels). A myriad of factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, nutritional deficiencies, hypothyroidism, stress, sedentary lifestyle and genetic predisposition, contribute to its onset, underscoring the need for personalised treatment, diagnosis and strategies.

Signs and Symptoms

Enlarged ovaries (generally 2-3 times bigger), irregular menstrual cycles, and hirsutism are hallmark features of PCOS. Yet, its manifestations extend beyond physical realms, encompassing sleep disturbances, blood sugar dysregulation, insulin resistance and chronic pelvic pain. This holistic perspective underscores the importance of comprehensive management.

Navigating the Path to Wellness

Crafting a lifestyle aligned with holistic principles forms the cornerstone of PCOS management.

One such approach is my Metabolic Balance program, which offers personalised metabolic dietary nutrition plans tailored to individual needs. By optimising low GI dietary choices, regular exercise, zen mindfulness practices, and supporting metabolic function, my ‘Harness Your Hormones’ Metabolic Balance program can play a crucial role in mitigating PCOS symptoms and fostering hormonal balance. With its focus on holistic health and personalised support, this program empowers women to take control of their PCOS journey and embrace a life of vitality and wellness.

Studies have also shown that embracing nature’s remedies, such as inositol and chromium in therapeutic dosages, further supports restoring vitality and improving ovulation rates and menstrual cycles.

Harnessing the Power of Herbs

In herbal medicine, allies like liquorice and peony offer solace, easing inflammation and harmonising hormonal imbalances. Their gentle yet potent effects pave the path to equilibrium, guiding you to reclaiming sovereignty over your health.

(Please do not take any supplements without consulting your healthcare practitioner)

Embracing Your Inner Sovereignty

PCOS may present challenges, but within every challenge lies an opportunity for growth. Armed with knowledge and empowered by holistic approaches, you can rewrite your PCOS narrative. Bid farewell to erratic cycles and decrease the risk of related conditions such as diabetes. And welcome a life imbued with vitality and purpose.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Step into the realm of holistic wellness and book a free discovery call today, and let’s navigate the labyrinth of PCOS together, unlocking the secrets to lasting wellness and reigniting your inner fire.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before changing your health regimen.

References

[1] Walters KA, Gilchrist RB, Ledger WL, Teede HJ, Handelsman DJ, Campbell RE. New perspectives on the pathogenesis of PCOS: neuroendocrine origins. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2018 Dec;29(12):841-852. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2018.08.005.

[2] Walters KA, Gilchrist RB, Ledger WL, Teede HJ, Handelsman DJ, Campbell RE. New perspectives on the pathogenesis of PCOS: neuroendocrine origins. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2018 Dec;29(12):841-852. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2018.08.005.

[3] Takeuchi T, Nishii O, Okamura T, Yaginuma T. Effect of traditional herbal medicine, shakuyaku-kanzo-to on total and free serum testosterone levels. Am J Chin Med. 1989;17(1-2):35-44. PMID: 2511749.

[4] Kong P, Chi R, Zhang L, Wang N, Lu Y. Effects of paeoniflorin on tumour necrosis factor-α-induced insulin resistance and changes of adipokines in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Fitoterapia. 2013 Dec;91:44-50. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2013.08.010.

[5] Eu CH, Lim WY, Ton SH, Bin Abdul Kadir K. Glycyrrhizic acid improved lipoprotein lipase expression, insulin sensitivity, serum lipid and lipid deposition in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Lipids Health Dis. 2010 Jul 29;9:81. doi: 10.1186/1476-511X-9-8.

[6] Fruzzetti F, Perini D, Russo M, Bucci F, Gadducci A. Comparison of two insulin sensitisers, metformin and myo-inositol, in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017 Jan;33(1):39-42. Doi: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1236078.

Fibromyalgia, the Science behind the Pain

If you’ve found your way to this blog, chances are you’re all too familiar with the relentless battle against fibromyalgia’s persistent pain and obstacles.

As a naturopath and nutritionist, I’ve seen first-hand the profound impact this condition has on individuals and their families. My own daughter struggles with it, which drives my personal commitment to understanding and addressing fibromyalgia underlying causes and discovering effective pain relief strategies.

For those who may be unfamiliar, let’s briefly touch on what fibromyalgia is.

It’s a chronic and often perplexing condition where a person will experience widespread pain, tenderness, and an increased sensitivity to touch, among other symptoms. Despite extensive research the exact cause of fibromyalgia remain elusive, with experts suggesting a complex mix of genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and lifestyle influences.

Essentially, fibromyalgia involves the body perceiving pain as more intense than it would for someone else, a condition known as hypersensitivity, due to faulty nervous system signalling. This phenomenon is referred to as Central Sensitisation, which I’ll delve into further below.

This heightened sensitivity can manifest in various ways, from making a gentle touch intensely uncomfortable and turning everyday activities to become significant challenges. Beyond physical pain, fibromyalgia can also lead to cognitive difficulties, such as memory issues and difficulty concentrating, as well as profound fatigue and sleep disturbances. The emotional toll of living with fibromyalgia cannot be overstated, as individuals often grapple with feelings of frustration, isolation, and anxiety due to the unpredictable nature of their symptoms.

The Science behind Fibromyalgia

Central Sensitisation is a process in the nervous system where there is and amplification of pain caused by a combination of pain pathways abnormalities and brain processing.

Abnormal pain pathway signally. Normally, when you experience pain, nerve signals travel from the site of the pain to your brain, which interprets them as pain sensations.

With central sensitisation, the nervous system becomes overly responsive, so even mild stimuli can trigger exaggerated pain responses. This heightened sensitivity can persist even after the initial injury or condition causing the pain has healed.

It involves changes in the way neurons in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) transmit and process pain signals.

Essentially, the nervous system becomes “sensitised” to pain, making people more susceptible to experiencing pain and discomfort from various stimuli, including those that wouldn’t typically cause pain.

Brain Processing: People with fibromyalgia often experience significant alterations in how their brains process pain signals. These changes are influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental triggers like trauma or infections, and heightened stress levels.

Research suggests that these alterations affect different areas of the brain responsible for pain processing, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. As a result, individuals may have heightened sensitivity to pain and struggle to regulate their pain responses effectively

Neurotransmitter Imbalances: (Brain Chemical Imbalances.) In fibromyalgia, there are noticeable disruptions in the levels of crucial neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

These neurotransmitters are like messengers in the brain, responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells. When there’s an imbalance in these chemicals, it can throw off the body’s ability to regulate pain signals properly.

For instance, serotonin is involved in mood regulation and sleep, while norepinephrine plays a role in alertness and stress responses. Dopamine, on the other hand, is associated with pleasure and reward pathways.

When these neurotransmitters are out of whack, it can exacerbate pain symptoms and lead to issues like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders.

Pain Perception Neuropeptide: There’s a significant involvement of Substance P, a neuropeptide crucial for transmitting pain signals and regulating inflammation.

Neuropeptides are small protein-like molecules used by neurons to communicate with each other.

Substance P acts as a messenger, relaying information about pain to the brain and spinal cord, it is also involved in promoting inflammation. Elevated levels of Substance P are associated with heightened pain sensitivity, exacerbating the symptoms experienced by individuals with fibromyalgia.

Exploring the intricate mechanisms of Substance P offers promising avenues for developing innovative treatments aimed at managing pain and alleviating symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.

The Gut-Brain Connection:  Studies suggest that there is a connection between the health of our gut and fibromyalgia.

The gut microbiome—the community of bacteria living in our intestines—affects immune function, the production of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), and overall health.

When there’s an imbalance in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, it can lead to symptoms of fibromyalgia. Dysbiosis basically means there’s a disruption in the normal balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut.

This imbalance has been linked to symptoms of fibromyalgia, which shows how important gut health is when it comes to managing the condition. By making changes to our diet and adding probiotics (good bacteria), we might find relief from fibromyalgia symptoms.

Holistic Approaches to Fibromyalgia Management

Natural medicine offers a range of tools to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of fibromyalgia.

Lifestyle modifications, including stress management techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, play a crucial role in symptom management.

Nutrition also plays a vital role in supporting overall health and well-being. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, antioxidants, and essential nutrients can help reduce pain and inflammation while supporting energy levels and mood stability.

While Natural Medicine Week provides a spotlight on alternative therapies, it’s important to seek guidance from natural health practitioners throughout the year, especially for managing fibromyalgia.

Embracing Natural Medicine Week

In celebration of Natural Medicine Week, I invite you to join me for a webinar on May 24th at 12:30 pm, where we will delve deeper into holistic approaches to managing fibromyalgia. Whether you are living with fibromyalgia or supporting a loved one on their journey, this webinar aims to empower you with knowledge and strategies to nurture wellness naturally.

Beyond the pain, the science behind fibromyagia