FREE MONTHLY LECTURE

INTESTINAL HEALTH
& NUTRITION

Date & Time: Wednesday, April 29, 2009
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Gelco Spine & Sports Medicine Center
1629 West Avenue J, Suite 101
Lancaster, California

Speaker:
Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
• Doctor of Nutrition and Homeopathy
• Health & Wellness Educator
• Motivational Coach

Dr. Sconiers will discuss the foods, nutrients, herbs and techniques that will support sound digestion and intestinal function. He will also address those foods, items & habits that undermine healthy gastrointestinal ability & function.

SEATING IS LIMITED.
Call (661) 729-4533 now to reserve a seat.

For more information and to schedule an
appointment with Dr. Wallace,
please call (661) 729-4533.
Services & Fees: www.drwallacesconiers.net
Email: DrWallaceSays@aol.com

FREE MONTHLY LECTURE

STRESS & WELLNESS

Date & Time: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Gelco Spine & Sports Center
1629 West Avenue J, Suite 101
Lancaster, California

Speaker: Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
▸ Doctor of Nutrition and Homeopathy
▸ Health & Wellness Educator
▸ Motivational Coach

Dr. Sconiers will discuss the foods, nutrients, herbs and items that will help to combat the effects of stress. He will also talk about healthier methods and means of dealing with stress. He will shed light on the social and dietary habits that are counter productive in reducing stress, i.e., wrong food choices, worries, lack of regular exercise, happy hour, etc.

Seating is limited.
Call (661) 729-4533 now to reserve a seat.

For more information and to schedule an
appointment with Dr. Wallace,
please call (661) 729-4533.
Services & Fees: www.drwallacesconiers.net
Email: DrWallaceSays@aol.com

IRIDOLOGY ANALYSIS SPECIAL!
SAVE $25.00
What Do Your Eyes Reveal
About Your Health?
Go to www.drwallacesconiers.net
for more information
or call (661) 729-4533

FREE MONTHLY LECTURE

(CHART: Developed by Bernard Jensen, D.C., Ph.D.
with revisions by Ellen Jensen, Ph.D., D.Sc:. www.bernardjensen.com)


Iridology:
A Basic Introduction

Date & Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2009
7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Gelco Spine & Sports Center
1629 West Avenue J, Suite 101
Lancaster, California

Speaker: Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
▸ Doctor of Nutrition and Homeopathy
▸ Health & Wellness Educator
▸ Motivational Coach

What do your eyes reveal about your health?
Dr. Wallace will lead a basic discussion on the art and science of analyzing the color, texture, markings and structure of the iris of the eye to gain valuable health information. The iris holds secrets to your health.

Seating is limited.
Call (661) 729-4533 now to reserve a seat.

For more information and to schedule an
appointment with Dr. Wallace,
please call (661) 729-4533.
Services & Fees: www.drwallacesconiers.net
Email: DrWallaceSays@aol.com

Free Monthly Lecture

Healthy New Year!
How to Stay Motivated

Date & Time: Wednesday, January 28, 2009
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Gelco Spine & Sports Center
1629 West Avenue J, Suite 101
Lancaster, California

Speaker:
Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
▸ Doctor of Nutrition and Homeopathy
▸ Health & Wellness Educator
▸ Motivational Coach

Dr. Sconiers will discuss techniques, tools and items that can be used to assist you in staying motivated and focused on your goals, plans and resolutions for the New Year/New You!

Seating is limited.
Call (661) 729-4533 now to reserve a seat.

WISHING YOU HEALTH, WELLNESS & HAPPINESS IN THE NEW YEAR

(Image Source: Optiknerve)

DEPRESSION

Although the holidays are thought of by most of us as times of fun, family, feasting, and the company of loved ones, for some (especially in light of our country’s current financial situation), it is a time of sorrow, loneliness, hopelessness, uncertainty and strain. However, I trust that the majority of you will have a warm and wonderful heart-felt time. For those struggling with loneliness, sorrow or mild to moderate depression, I hope the following article will be of some assistance as a starting guideline during this holiday season.

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder and a major health problem in the United States (an estimated 11 million people yearly). Depression is a mental state characterized by varying degrees of feeling down or blue or a constant sense of despair and lack of motivation. It is classified as mild, moderate or severe and by degree of frequency. According to the American Psychiatric Association, to be classified as clinically depressed, the following criteria must be met: 1. poor appetite with weight loss or increased appetite with weight gain, 2. insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping), 3. physical hyperactivity or inactivity, 4. loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, or decreased sex drive, 5. loss of energy and feelings of fatigue, 6. feelings of worthlessness, self-reproach, or inappropriate guilt, 7. diminished ability to think or concentrate, 8. recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

Depression occurs in all age groups, particularly the elderly and young. At any age it is twice as common in females as in males. Individuals with mild depression are often treated without medication and are encouraged to find relief by spending time doing things they enjoy like exercising, eating better & healthier foods (nutrition and diet changes), laughter and other stress management techniques.

For the more serious forms of depression where possible harm to self or others is apparent, a medical doctor or psychotherapist should be contacted right away where pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy may be used.

CAUSE(S):
There can be a multitude of causes for depression and often they are difficult to clearly detect. They can be in the realm of emotional or biological (which would include possible toxic environmental elements, chemical imbalance and/or nutrient deficiencies) or a combination of both. Some of the more typical and well-known causes of depression are listed below.

• Emotional
• Bereavement
• Job loss (finances)
• Unrealistic expectations
• Childhood environment
• A cold, uncaring upbringing
• Divorce
• Neglect
• Mid life crisis
• Loss of a parent
• Biological
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Physical abuse
• Oral contraceptives
• Chemical toxicity/Drug abuse
• Mental disease and nervous disorders
• Anti-hypertensives such as reserpine
• Viral infections
• Postpartum depression
• Cerebral allergies
• Alcoholism
• Heredity
• Chemical deficiencies
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Chronic disease

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:
Some symptoms of depression, such as feelings of guilt or inadequacy, may be apparent only to the person experiencing them. However, these feelings may bring about noticeable changes in behavior and attitude that are visible to others close to them.

• Anorexia
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Sexual dysfunction
• Impaired concentration
• Relationship withdrawal
• Inability to find pleasure
• Inexplicable mood swings
• Early morning waking
• Headache
• Constipation
• Anxiety attacks
• Frequent crying spells
• Gastrointestinal pain
• Overreacting to little things
• Emotional instability
• Sleep disturbances
• Inability to get out of bed

DIETARY CONSIDERATIONS

1. Decrease the amount of protein and fat from animal sources.
2. Eat more toxin-free fish (salmon, halibut, cod, mackerel) and turkey.
3. Increase your intake of complex carbohydrates from organic fresh fruits and vegetables.
4. Consume more whole grains, beans and seeds (supply essential fatty acids).
5. Avoid or limit the use of refined white sugar, flour and junk foods.
6. Avoid fried foods and foods high in saturated fats.

NUTRIENTS

• B-complex vitamins are essential for proper brain function and carbohydrate metabolism.
• Choline and Inositol are two B-vitamins that support neurotransmission in the brain and assist the liver in fat metabolism (in Chinese medicine poor liver function is said to affect mood).
• Niacin, another member of the B-complex family, increases circulation to the brain and aids the liver in fat and cholesterol management.
• Vitamin C supports the immune system, enhances circulation, protects brain cells from free-radical damage, and helps combat depression.
• Chromium (GTF or Picolinate) assists in the metabolizing of fat, maintaining muscle tone and the production of energy.
• S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (Same-e) in several studies was found to produce a significant reduction in pain, decrease rates of depression and lower homocysteine levels which are linked to depression and Sam-e availability.
• 5-HTP a form of L-Tryptophan has been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain and reduce pain and depression found in people suffering from chronic pain conditions.
• L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that aids the body in combating stress and elevates levels of dopamine one of the feel good brain neurotransmitters. (Caution: Do not take with MAOI, i.e., Nardil).
• L-Taurine is an important antioxidant, immune system regulator, white blood cell activator.
• Essential Fatty acids (EFA), especially from fish oil such as salmon, mackerel and cod is crucial for assisting in proper brain function and blood lipid balance.

LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENT

• Participate in a regular exercise program (30 - 45 minutes daily, 4 - 5 times weekly).
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, sedatives and antihistamines.
• Get out in the morning sun 3 - 4 times a week (before 10:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m.)
• Spend more time at parks, hiking, beaches and strolling your neighborhood.
• Spend more time laughing and playing with children and animals.
• Become involved with yoga, meditation, Tai chi, prayer or mental imagery.

HERBAL APPROACHES
St. Johns’s Wort has a long history of combating depression and anxiety. Research indicates that one of the active compounds hypericin shows positive effects against anxiety, depression and feelings of worthlessness. (Caution: Do not take if pregnant, avoid intense sun exposure).

Ginkgo biloba has shown benefit in combating depression by improving blood flow to the brain and by enhancing long and short-term memory. (Caution: In large amounts, ginkgo may cause diarrhea, irritability and restlessness in some individuals).

Gotu kola, an East Indian herb, works much like ginkgo by improving circulation throughout the entire body, especially the brain. It takes part in revitalizing both the mental and physical body stores of energy. In India it is used as an antiaging herb. (Gotu kola is caffeine free and has no listed cautions).

Siberian ginseng has a solid history for improving the function of various organs and glandular systems, enhancing the production of energy and the libido and creating a sense of well-being.

Licorice root, besides having wonderful gastrointestinal soothing abilities, it contains at least eight different antidepressant compounds. (Caution: Long-term use could result in headache, lethargy and high blood pressure).

Ginger, besides being a good circulatory enhancer, has a long history of helping with depression, pain and anxiety. (Caution: Ginger has a blood thinning affect).

Oat straw has a history of balancing deficient and debilitated systems and supporting sound brain function.

HOMEOPATHIC (general depression):

1. Aurum
2. Ignatia
3. Cimicifuga/Sepia
4. Medusa
5. Murex
6. Natrum Carbonicum
7. Natrum Muriaticum
8. Pulsatilla

For more in-depth information about depression and what can be done, please see the list of references below and/or visit this blog often which features upcoming lectures and articles on health, wellness and nutrition.

References:
The Natural Medicine Guide to Depression.....Stephanie Marohn

Mood Cure....................................................Julia Ross

Deadly Emotions..............................Don Colbert, M.D.

Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary................F. A. Davis Company

Alternative Medicine, The Definitive Guide.........Burton Goldberg Group

The American Medical Association Encyclopedia of Medicine
........Charles B. Clayman, M.D.

Integrative Medicine Access, Professional Reference to Conditions, Herbs and Supplements

The Green Pharmacy................................James A. Duke, Ph.D.

The Family Health Guide to Homeopathy............Barry Rose, M.D.

Homeopathic Medicine.................................Trevor Smith, M.D.

Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
Email: DrWallaceSays@aol.com

For more information and to schedule an
appointment with Dr. Wallace,
please call (661) 729-4533.
Services & Fees: www.drwallacesconiers.net

Monthly Article: FIBROIDS

Fibroids, also known as myomas, leiomyomas, fibromyomas, and fibromas, are solid common benign tumors that usually occur in the walls of muscle lining the uterus, however they may occasionally grow outside the uterus. They are often described as hard, fibrous or “tuff,”light-colored tissue that grows slowly (and at certain times quickly) within the uterine wall. At times a fibroid may grow within the muscle resulting in a distortion of the uterine cavity, or it may protrude like a hernia from the uterine wall into the uterine cavity or cervix anchored by a stalk at which time it is called a pedunculated fibroid. Fibroids can range from pea to grapefruit size and are often found in groups. Many gynecologists will describe the size of a fibroid in terms of weeks of pregnancy (i.e., size of a 12-week pregnancy) or in terms of seeds, nuts or fruits.

There are three primary types of fibroids based on their size and location. The location of the fibroid also determines the possible symptoms a woman will experience. 1. Subserous (associated with pressure) grow on the outside of the uterus, 2. intramural (may cause pain) grow within the wall of the uterus and are the most common and 3. submucosal (cause bleeding) grow into the uterine cavity and are the least common and are known to cause heavy bleeding and prolonged menstrual cycles.

When a fibroid is growing from a stalk, pedunculated, it may grow into the uterus or outside the uterine wall or sometimes twist on its stalk obstructing its blood supply resulting in pressure and pain. Very small fibroids called seedlings are difficult to detect and cause no symptoms and are usually detected after undergoing a pelvic examination. A uterus that is producing fibroids will normally average six to seven fibroids. Approximately 40% to 80% of all women between the ages of 30 and 50 will have fibroids and they are three to nine times more prevalent in African-American women than in Caucasian women. Women of all races who are overweight are two to three times more likely to develop fibroids. They rarely occur before age twenty and have been the primary reason for most women undergoing hysterectomies in the U.S. at a rate of 600,000 surgeries annually. Today many experts believe that most of these hysterectomies are unnecessary.
Fibroids may decrease in size and number when a woman reaches menopause at about age 52. Unless they cause severe pain, produce chronic heavy bleeding, become too numerous, grow larger than 4 inches in diameter, or produce great pressure against other organs, they need not be treated. Many physicians will adopt a wait and see approach because at menopause most fibroids stop growing and in many cases will shrink and disappear on their own without surgery or drug intervention.

If exploring non conventional methods, remember to be patient and persistent. It may take up to three to six months before a fibroid may begin to shrink or disappear once you have embarked on a wholesome and balanced diet, lifestyle and attitude.

Cause(s):
Medically the cause(s) of uterine fibroids is not clear. However, some experts believe that there is a genetic error in a gene that controls how rapidly muscle cells grow in the muscle wall of the uterus, and also that there may be an abnormal response to estrogen and possibly progesterone. The pancreatic hormone insulin and other growth factors may also affect fibroid growth. Fibroids also tend to run in families, further suggesting a possible genetic connection (or possible traditional connection). The tendency to grow in the presence of elevated estrogen levels would explain rapid growth of fibroids during pregnancy or when taking hormone replacement therapy, especially estrogen (ERT). Also under question are poor dietary and social habits particularly refined carbohydrates, alcohol, tobacco, junk food and sugar consumption, as well as high stress or poor stress management. Many experts state that the standard American diet is the type of diet that places women at risk for not only uterine fibroids but also endometriosis, fibrocystic breast lumps and breast cancer. According to some reports beef and ham have been associated with increased rates of fibroids possibly due to added growth hormones. Lastly, many experts, as do I, believe that fibroids or any dysfunction is a sign that there are problems stemming from suppressed or blocked feelings, energy or severe imbalances in both the physical and emotional body. These imbalances could be from bad relationships, unrewarding jobs or professions, nutrient-deficient diets, detrimental lifestyles and a loathsome view of self. In all cases, it implies that we need to rethink, review and do better in all areas of concern.

Symptoms:
Many women with fibroids have no symptoms. The major concern with fibroids is rapid growth and excessive bleeding. Large fibroids can prevent pregnancy, cause miscarriages, can produce heavy bleeding during menses, cause anemia, pressure the urinary bladder, cause frequent urges to urinate, painful intercourse, promote constipation and produce leg and back pain. Although extremely rare (less than one case out of 1000), there are cases of cancer (uterine sarcoma) resulting from fibroids. Unfortunately, when fibroids cause chronic severe pain, stubborn heavy bleeding, hinder efforts to become pregnant, and infringe upon neighboring organs obstructing their function, surgery may be the only choice or option. Even in such dire situations it would be wise to seek a second or third opinion before opting for a hysterectomy and other surgeries.

Whenever there is heavy vaginal bleeding it is crucial to see a physician in order to rule out polyps and cervical or uterine cancer.

What to Do:
As with all serious health issues you may wish to consult with your medical doctor while exploring and investigating all other possible modalities and therapies as potential adjuncts to improving your health. Do not be reluctant to ask questions and voice your concerns and fears to your medical doctor and do consider he or she as a “partner” in your quest to make the best decisions.

Conventional Avenues:
• Myomectomy: surgical removal of fibroid
• Uterine fibroid embolization: shrinking of a fibroid tumor
• Hysterectomy: removal of the uterus
• Endometrial ablation: lining of uterus is removed
• Myolysis: needle inserted into fibroid using freezing or electric current

Dietary Modifications:
The premise of the dietary section below is that the “avoid items” are hard on the liver and increase the presence of estrogen that promotes the occurrence and growth of existing fibroids, and that the “do items” decrease the presence or effect of excess estrogen.

• Avoid hydrogenated and saturated fats and oils.
• Avoid caffeine, tea (except specific herbal teas), cola drinks, and chocolate.
• Do eat low-fat, high fiber foods, i.e., dark-green leafy vegetables, fruits, beans and whole grains.
• Do eat plenty of raw foods including nuts and seeds.
• Avoid alcohol and estrogenic foods, i.e., dairy, eggs, red meat and fat.
• Avoid or limit your intake of salt, fried foods and white flour products.
• Avoid or limit saturated fats from animal sources, i.e., bacon, sausage, ham, beef, pork and gravies.
• Do eat tofu, tempeh, fish, organic chicken and fresh fruit.
• Do eat only hormone-free products whenever possible.

A Few Excellent Nutrients to Consider

SUPPLEMENTS:
1. Vitamin A: This fat-soluble vitamin from fish oil was found to be affective in protecting fragile tissues of the mucosal lining throughout the body. It also has been found to combat the recurrence of tumors and assist in preventing bleeding. In fibrocystic breast (often accompanied by uterine fibroids), vitamin A may protect the soft tissue and ducts of the breasts.

2. Beta-Carotene: Like its cousin vitamin A, beta-carotene is an excellent antioxidant and protector of fragile mucosal tissue. A great food source is sweet potatoes and squash.

3. Vitamin C with citrus bioflavonoids: This versatile vitamin performs a myriad of functions including helping with inflamed gums, skin, joints, muscles, blood vessel strength, bruising, stress, circulation, fatigue, edema, varicose veins, allergies, eye and vision problems, cholesterol levels, hormone production and balance, wound healing and immunity. Vitamin C and bioflavonoids aid in stopping the bleeding associated with large fibroids. Best food sources are citrus fruit, kiwi, bell peppers, dark-greens, and most all berries.

4. B-Complex Vitamins: This family of water soluble vitamins is important for health of tissue, immune support, carbohydrate metabolism, stress management, brain/nerve and muscle function and water retention. They also assist the liver in the regulation of estrogen. Fine food sources are whole grains, beans, peas, liver and dark-green leafy vegetables.

5. Iron supplements can be used in an effort to improve iron levels, which in turn along with B-vitamins and other nutrients should help alleviate chronic tiredness as a result of anemia.

6. Black strap Molasses: This natural sweetener is an excellent source of iron, potassium and B-vitamins and is easily absorbed by the body.

7. Kelp, Dulse, Hijiki: These wonderful sea plants are good sources of many important trace and micro minerals, especially iodine that support liver and thyroid function. The mineral iodine has been found to be deficient in women who suffer from uterine fibroids and fibrocystic breast syndrome.

LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS
• Avoid all forms of tobacco (hinders oxygen availability)
• Maintain a regular moderate exercise program at least 4 to 5 days a week
• Keep weight within ideal range for your height (excess weight is linked to elevated estrogen levels).
• Employ the use of natural progesterone cream on various soft tissue areas.
• Practice effective stress management techniques

HERBAL APPROACHES
The following herbs were listed as the most successful in combating the growth of uterine fibroids and taking part in supporting liver and glandular function while supplying the body with a sound array of nutrients and cleansing and detoxifying properties: Licorice root, burdock root, dandelion root, Pau D’Arco, comfrey root, chaparral, vitex, ginger root, cinnamon, yellow dock, dong quai, wild yam, red clover, and squaw vine.

For more in-depth information about fibroids and what can be done,
please see the list of references below.

References:
Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary.......F. A. Davis Company

Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom........Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Alternative Medicine, The Definitive Guide......Burton Goldberg Group

The American Medical Association Encyclopedia of Medicine.....Charles B. Clayman, M.D.

The Estrogen Decision Self Help Book......Susan Lark, M. D.

Soy Smart Health..................Neil Solomom, M.D., Ph.D.

The Estrogen Alternative....Raquel Martin and Judi Gerstung, D.C.

Herbal Healing for Women............Rosemary Gladstar

Women’s Herbs, Women’s Health......Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac and Kahti Keville

Center for Uterine Fibroids..................www.fibroids.net

National Uterine Foundation......................www.nuff.org

Wallace B. Sconiers, Ph.D., Hom, CN
Email: DrWallaceSays@aol.com

For more information and to schedule an
appointment with Dr. Wallace,
please call (661) 729-4533.
Services & Fees: www.drwallacesconiers.net