ASTHMA...Then and NOW

When I was in medical school, I was taught that the main problem in asthma was something called bronchoconstriction, the tightening of the small airways or bronchial tubes needed for normal breathing. The primary treatment offered was medication to dilate those airways. The current concept or theory of asthma is very different. It is now seen as an inflammatory disorder of the airways, with bronchoconstriction secondary to the irritation caused by the inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs, like inhaled steroids for example, are now considered to be standard of care and the mainstays of treatment. Asthma is increasing in frequency all over the world.


Asthma has typically been divided into two categories, extrinsic and intrinsic types. Extrinsic asthma is generally considered an allergy related condition. Intrinsic asthma type is associated with a bronchial reaction that is due to such factors as chemicals, cigarette smoking, dust, cold air, exercize, infection, and becoming emotionally upset.


I believe without question that diet influences inflammation. The food choices we make can determine whether we are in a pro-inflammatory state or an anti-inflammatory one. In the former, abnormal inflammation is more likely, as are all the diseases associated with it, including asthma. In the latter case, normal inflammation is not affected, that is, the body's healing response to infection is as it should be.


So, if you or someone you know suffers with asthma or some type of restrictive airway condition, consider all possibilities: evaluate your diet ( certain foods like the nightshade plants for example, tomatoes, white potatoes, eggplants ) may produce the pro-inflammatory response I mentioned above. Milk and dairy products can be a major problem for children with asthma as they increase mucus production which can further inhibit free breathing. Again, many children have food allergies and are allergic to dairy products.


Evaluate your lifestyle and environment at work, school and play, as it may be contributing to some of your asthmatic or allergy type symptoms...and read on.


Knowing The Facts About Asthma


It is an obvious statement to say, "asthma is on the rise." If you know anyone with children or have children yourself, you probably know of a child with asthma. “6.3 million children under 18 report having asthma.” Now, let’s look at some statistics that may surprise you:
20.3 million Americans report having asthma.

There are more than 5,000 deaths from asthma annually.

More than 14 million school days are missed annually due to asthma.

Asthma accounts for approximately 14.5 million missed workdays for adults annually.
The American Chiropractor – January 2006 So we know it is a serious concern for Americans, but do we really know what it is? And why is it on the rise? Also, what can we do about it from a nutritional standpoint? Those are questions that I will answer for you.


Asthma is a disease in the lungs where the bronchial tubes constrict reducing the airflow in and out of the lungs. This happens in a number of ways: the smooth muscles around the tubes tighten, the tubes themselves swell and inflame, and an accumulation of mucus as well as other fluids build up and obstruct the airways. There are specific triggers that set off this overreaction or overstimulation of the airways. This is sometimes called “reactive airway disease.” The various triggers consist of allergens like certain foods, animal dander, chemicals, drugs, dust mites, environmental pollutants, feathers, food additives, mold, tobacco, etc. and also nonallergenic triggers like adrenal disorders, anxiety, extreme temperature and weather changes, exercise, laughing, infections, etc.


As for answering the question, “Why is it on the rise?” That is yet to be determined. We do know that asthma is an inherited condition and so are allergies. Therefore, as our population grows so will the number of Americans who have this disease. Here comes another very obvious statement, "pollution is on the rise." “The US is the largest single emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels.” www.cia.gov


"Give me some good news," you say. Even though preventative and emergency medications may be necessary for those who suffer from asthma, certain nutrients are known to help reduce the amount of medication needed. Vitamin C is known to limit inflammatory responses, fight against possible infections and also helps keep airways open if taken before exercise. Vitamin B6 is known to help decrease the asthmatic wheeze and is also needed for those taking medications containing theophylline. Vitamin B12 also helps to decrease inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Magnesium, fatty acids and L-Glutamine are other important nutrients that are thought to help minimize asthmatic symptoms.


Växa products that we suggest for those who suffer from asthma are: Aller-Sine, Vitamin C, Omegacin, Anti Oxin and Immune-Aid. All of these products have the above ingredients and more! The combination is sure to help with all aspects of asthma as well as improve overall health. Do be cautious if you are allergic to rag weed, some of the herbs in Aller-Sine and Immune-Aid may also cause said allergies. Also on that note, if your asthma is due to an allergy, do your best to single out the specific allergy and if it is something that can be eliminated from your diet or surroundings (as in a pet or dust), then you can omit the problem ahead of time.

The ADD/ADHD Label Challenge

As many of you are aware (especially those of you who are familiar with ADD/ADHD) the FDA Advisory Panel met again this week regarding the side effect profile of the stimulant prescription medications. The Panel's concern is that due to recent black box warnings it is possible that children or individuals who are good candidates for a particular pharmaceutical drug for treating the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD, may be frightened or scared to begin therapy.
Obviously everyone is unique and different biochemically. What works well for one individual may not be effective for the next person. When it comes to families or individuals who are struggling with ADD/ADHD, I suggest you discuss all options with your child’s pediatrician, or family doctor. And remember, you do have choices!

Slippery Slope Diagnosis?

Could ADD/ADHD be a little over diagnosed? In some areas… yes, depending on how much weight the school systems are allowed to carry. “When 63% of children in a single Virginia school district are diagnosed as having ADHD, it seems clear.” (USA Today) Another question that I would like to raise is, does it really matter if these stimulant drugs carry a “Black Box” warning or not? Haven’t we already heard enough about the known side effects to avoid using them? Yet, if you read any of the recent articles discussing the concern that if these medications carried a “Black Box” warning it would “scare many patients away from treatment.” (Dr. Robert Nelson, panel chairman) I ask the question again, do we really need a “Black Box” warning to be frightened with known side effects of: heart attacks, hallucination and other psychological problems? Many people think that these are their only options. That if they or their children are diagnosed with ADHD they have the option to either use the pharmaceutical drugs or they will be left to become misfits in society. We really need to get the word out that there are safe alternatives. Safe alternatives that work!

Even if you are uncertain if you have ADD/ADHD, Attend can be a viable option to help you increase your ability to focus and process information. There are many theories as to why ADD/ADHD is on the rise, but if you are a parent or teacher dealing with a hyperactive or unruly child, time is of the essence and the how and why falls to the wayside to finding a means to sanity. We understand the pressure that is placed on these parents to gain some sort of control and when the trusted family doctors are so willing to prescribe an answer in the form of an easy to swallow pill, why would you question it? Herein lies the problem. There is no one to blame for the current situation; however, we can no longer ignore the seriousness of the situation. Teens that have been medicated by these stimulant ADD/ADHD medications are now abusing drugs, having increased suicidal tendencies and dying from cardiovascular events. Just because it hasn’t happened to “so and so” doesn’t mean that it can’t happen to you or your child. Why take the chance?

We know that there are some wonderful natural products in the market place that you may have tried that did not work as well as you would have liked, but Attend truly works. It may take a little longer but it is not a controlled substance that may cause insomnia, tension or drug dependency. It works in a very positive manner to open up the pathways of communication in the brain. It is extremely comprehensive with proven homeopathics, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids and herbs. Essentially, brain food... not only brain food, but also a specific set of instructions for the brain. There are no known side effects and Attend can be taken along side with the prescription medication for ADD/ADHD to balance the chemical messengers in the brain for improved focus and concentration. So, although your family doctor may not be aware of this product or its effectiveness, it can be a healthier solution for your family. It may be up to you to educate him or her, but know a safe and effective alternative is available. This product has been a “life saver” for many children and adults alike since 1987.

Do You Feel Tired All The Time? Maybe You Have Restless Legs Syndrome!

I have to admit, when I first heard about this syndrome, I did not pay much attention to it. Now, however, it is apparent that many Americans suffer with the disorder daily. RLS is a diagnosis of exclusion. In other words, doctors rule out other disorders related to neurological deficit or central nervous system involvement first.

Restless legs syndrome is a nerve and muscular disorder characterized by repeated contractions of one or more muscle groups, typically of the leg, during sleep. Each jerk usually lasts less than ten seconds. Many times, the individual is unaware of the movement and only complains of either frequent awakenings at night, or excessive daytime sleepiness. So, if this sounds like you, take action. You do not have to suffer with RLS. There are therapeutic options that can be very beneficial.

Treating Restless Legs Syndrome

The Natural Way Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), or Ekbom’s Syndrome, is a neurological sensory disorder that affects approximately 12 million Americans. This disorder has been described as creeping, crawling, jittery, tingling and burning sensations in the legs that ease with movement. The uncomfortable sensations, that are sometimes indescribable, begin during times of inactivity and usually during the evening hours. RLS is receiving a lot of attention as of late due to its association with sleep loss.

It is believed that RLS stems from an imbalance of dopamine (a chemical produced in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter). Factors that may worsen symptoms of the disorder are caffeine, alcohol and tobacco intake; stress; pregnancy; and iron deficiencies (sometimes caused by anemia). One of the comorbid conditions that are being linked to RLS is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

There are not any direct tests used to diagnose RLS. Doctors ask a series of questions regarding the symptoms and rule out other conditions in order to make a diagnosis. There are a handful of medications that are used in an attempt to silence the twitching disorder such as medications for Parkinson’s disease, Opioids (narcotics), muscle relaxers, sleeping pills, and even medications for epilepsy. So far, there is only one medication developed specifically for RLS and that is ropinirole (Requip).

Natural ways that you can minimize symptoms of RLS are to avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco intake; exercise and stretch daily, stay active mentally (read a good book or do an activity that thoroughly engages you); go to bed and wake up at the same time every day; and try some relaxation techniques like yoga. A calcium/magnesium supplement can also help by calming the nervous system and relaxing muscles. Växa products that we recommend for someone suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome are: Neuran, Extress and our Calcium Citrate with Magnesium and Vitamin D.

The ingredients in Neuran have been shown to naturally:

Help diminish excessive muscle spasms, mental nervousness, uncontrolled agitation and other neurological dysfunction such as involuntary shaking and twitching.

Help promote healthy nerve function and smooth neural pathways to ensure clean, non-confused, direct responsive signaling and receiving of neural messages within the Central Nervous System

The ingredients in Extress have been shown to naturally:


Help relax muscles safely
Help reduce the possibility of stress-induced head pain and muscle aches

RLS affects women, men and children of any race. Adults who have a severe case of RLS have typically had an early onset from childhood. Many doctors discredit RLS in children as growing pains. Treating the RLS with the various medication options can be hit or miss strategies, meaning you may have to try several different types before you find one that works. In addition, once a medication is found that works, it may stop working later down the line as your body builds up a tolerance towards it.

Växa’s products are safe and all natural. They are simply providing the body with nutrients that it needs and direction through proven homeopathics. If you or someone you know suffers from RLS, try an alternative approach. It just might do the trick and stop the twitch, if not, we will gladly give you

The ADD/ADHD Label Challenge

As many of you are aware (especially those of you who are familiar with ADD/ADHD) the FDA Advisory Panel met again last week regarding the side effect profile of the stimulant prescription medications. The panels concern is that due to recent black box warnings it is possible that children or individuals who are good candidates for a particular pharmaceutical drug used for the treatment of ADD/ADHD, may be frightened or scared to begin therapy.

Obviously, everyone is unique and different biochemically. What works well for one individual may not be effective for the next person. When it comes to families or individuals who are struggling with ADD/ADHD. I suggest you discuss all options with your child’s pediatrician, or family doctor. And remember, you do have choices!

Slippery Slope Diagnosis?

Could ADD/ADHD be a little over diagnosed? In some areas... yes, depending on how much weight the school systems are allowed to carry. “When 63% of children in a single Virginia school district are diagnosed as having ADHD, it seems clear.” (USA Today) Another question that I would like to raise is does it really matter if these stimulant drugs carry a “Black Box” warning or not? Haven’t we already heard enough about the known side effects to avoid using them? Yet, if you read any of the recent articles discussing the concern that if these medications carried a “Black Box” warning it would “scare many patients away from treatment.” (Dr. Robert Nelson, panel chairman) I ask the question again, do we really need a “Black Box” warning to be frightened with known side effects of: heart attacks, hallucination and other psychological problems? Many people think that these are their only options. That if they or their children are diagnosed with ADHD they have the option to either use the pharmaceutical drugs or they will be left to become misfits in society. We really need to get the word out that there are safe alternatives. Safe alternatives that work!

Even if you are uncertain if you have ADD/ADHD, Attend can be a viable option to help you increase your ability to focus and process information. There are many theories as to why ADD/ADHD is on the rise, but if you are a parent or teacher dealing with a hyperactive or unruly child, time is of the essence and the how and why falls to the wayside to finding a means to sanity. We understand the pressure that is placed on these parents to gain some sort of control and when the trusted family doctors are so willing to prescribe an answer in the form of an easy to swallow pill, why would you question it? Herein lies the problem. There is no one to blame for the current situation; however, we can no longer ignore the seriousness of the situation. Teens that have been medicated by these stimulant ADD/ADHD medications are now abusing drugs, having increased suicidal tendencies and dying from cardiovascular events. Just because it hasn’t happened to “so and so” doesn’t mean that it can’t happen to you or your child. Why take the chance?

We know that there are some wonderful natural products in the marketplace that you may have tried that did not work as well as you would have liked, but Attend truly works. It may take a little longer but it is not a controlled substance that may cause insomnia, tension or drug dependency. It works in a very positive manner to open up the pathways of communication in the brain. It is extremely comprehensive with proven homeopathics, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids and herbs. Essentially, brain food… not only brain food, but also a specific set of instructions for the brain. There are no known side effects and Attend can be taken along side with the prescription medications for ADD/ADHD to balance the chemical messengers in the brain for improved focus and concentration. So, although your family doctor may not be aware of this product or its effectiveness, it can be a healthier solution for your family. It may be up to you to educate him or her, but know a safe and effective alternative is available. This product has been a “life saver” for many children and adults alike since 1987.