Expert: Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac. - 7/1/2009

Question
Hi Tamsen
I dont know if acupuncture is applicable in my case, but I have visited an acupuncturist/natural healer in the past for arthritis and stomach bloating. He helped a lot and by giving up red meat which he recommended the inflammation and indigestion is much improved!
I have metabolic syndrome, which seems to be hereditary as I think my Dad had it and my daughter seems to have it.
I am on medication for hypertension, and am eating low fat to reduce cholesterol.
The fatigue has improved with exercise, but my weight,in spite of a low fat low calorie diet (especially the abdominal obesity) has not changed.
There seems to be some supplements/vitamins but where to start? Magnesium seems to keep coming up in the more scientific sites.
Last week I ditched the low fat (still not eating red meat) and went low glycemic, which is making me feel a bit better and my belly has shrunk a bit but no weight loss.
I also ditched the weight lifting and running three times a week (too hard on my 50 year old body) and all I was getting was sore muscles) for long daily walks. I have to walk longer but I can do it every day.
Any thoughts appreciated!

Answer
One of the best nutritional supplements you can take is a high quality oil such as flax oil or fish oil.  I would recommend either for most people, but some people prefer flax oil because it seems to cause less burp up than fish oil.  This is simply a case of poor digestion however and taking oil supplements in the middle of a meal or with some enzymes that break down fat can ease that problem.

Both flax seed and fish oils can help reduce inflammation, help protect the cardiovascular system, can help lower cholesterol, and even help mood and overall energy.  By supplying the body with healthy fats, many people also see a decrease in their body's fat stores.  In fact, there are entire books written on weight loss using healthy oils like flax seed or coconut oil.  

Both fish and flax oils come in liquid or capsule form.  Many people like the convenience of capsules, though you may need to take a lot to get the same amount of oil as simply taking the liquid.  Liquid forms now come flavored, and plain flax oil itself is actually really good on toast or salads once you get used to it.  Remember to keep them refrigerated and use within a month or two.

Some nutritional changes you can make that will also make a big difference is to start cooking with healthy oils as well, olive oil and coconut oil specifically.  

You also stated you have metabolic syndrome but did not mention how your body is doing with sugar.  There are some good fiber supplements out there that can help with blood sugar but I would have to know more about your specific needs in that area to make any suggestions.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can also be a great help. Find a local licensed/certified acupuncturist in your area that can give you a full Oriental Medicine exam and diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan to best fit you.

Both the oils and acupuncture can be safely used while on blood pressure medication.