Expert: Tonja Wells - 2/19/2009

Question
Hi!
I live in Sweden and have not been able to find a doctor that can help me as of yet. I’m trying to heal myself by reading a lot about alternative healing/medicine. I’ve suffered from “something” for many years now. I have been diagnosed with hypotyreosis and am taking medicine (levotyroxin) for that. However, I seem to have developed most of my symptoms after I began taking the medicine. The only thing getting better is the carpal tunnel syndrome, although it’s not completely gone. My other symptoms is severe anxiety (so bad that I’ve been subscribed with a medicine called Seroquel in Sweden), sleeping problems, fatigue etc. However these problems have gotten better but now I wonder what’s going on.
Now I’m following a diet since two weeks; no sugar, no gluten products, no milk, nothing processed, no additives etc. I’m following a food plan and am taking the following vitamins etc.: Vitamin C, multivitamine, magnesium, tyrosine, 5-htp, milk thistle, Q-10, and am drinking a lot of water. The problem is that one week in to the problem I got really tired and now, two weeks in, I’m so tired I can barely drag myself to work. I can’t function at any level, can’t think properly and can definitely not do a good job at my work place. My limbs and my head feels like they’ve been coated with concrete. I think it’s strange since I eat really healthy and sleep a lot. Do you have a clue? (I’m sorry about the long note and my poor English…)


Answer
Hello,

I would try to find an herbalist there that can help you.
I would consider candida issues, adrenal issues.

Severe anxiety can be adrenal issues.

I would suggest Nervous Fatigue Formual and B complex.  

I would also look to the thyroid to see if it is low.  Herbal like Thyroid Support would be good here.

I would take the Candida quiz below and see how many of the adrenal burnout symtpoms you have below.

If you want to order these items through me I can find the number in Sweeden for you to call.

ARE YOU DEALING WITH THE YEASTY BEASTIES?
Symptoms That Indicate Yeast or Candida Overgrowth
Allergic responses. Since yeast weakens your immune system, your immune system is less able to distinguish between harmful and harmless substances. You may suffer from an increased number of allergic reactions as a result of yeast overgrowth. So, you may have fewer allergy problems once your body's yeast supply is under control. You may still have the allergy, but bigger "doses" of the allergen are required to create a reaction. Symptoms to watch for include dizziness, diarrhea, congestion, hives, asthma, headaches, depression and weakness.
Digestion. Any food with a high sugar content encourages yeast growth, and yeast in turn produces extra carbon dioxide. This can lead to gas, bloating and heartburn. Other symptoms are abdominal pain, gastritis, gastric ulcer. The effect of yeast doesn't stop with the stomach. Diarrhea (due to yeast's direct invasion of the intestinal tract) and constipation or episodes of alternating diarrhea and constipation can also point to yeast overgrowth.
Respiration. Signs of yeast problems in this area include sore throat and sore mouth (thrush), canker sores, sinus and bronchial infections, pneumonia, chronic cough and asthma.
Circulation. Palpitations, rapid pulse rate and a pounding heart can signal yeast problems since yeast hinders the hormonal balance necessary to govern circulation. The result is fluid retention, along with cold, clammy hands and increased perspiration.
Genital and Urinary. Symptoms of vaginal or urinary difficulties due to yeast infection include the following symptoms: vaginal discharge, itching, urinary burning, frequent urination, lack of bladder control and bedwetting, menstrual cramps and PMS.
Muscles and Bones. As yeast affects the musculoskeletal system, these symptoms can occur: night leg pains, muscle stiffness and muscle weakness, deep muscle pains, particularly in the shoulder and neck, and poor coordination.
Skin. Yeast also attacks the skin in warm, moist areas like the groin and breast in adults or the diaper rash area in children. Skin conditions such as hives and eczema, psoriasis, athletes feet, and itching are often an allergic response to yeast.
Nerves. Headaches are one of the most common symptoms that result from yeast problems. Other symptoms that stem from yeast's effect on the nervous system are anxiety, irritability, restlessness, panic attacks, sudden anger, sleep disturbances.
Other symptoms that point to multiplying yeast are fatigue, sugar cravings, high insulin levels and low metabolism.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TAKE THE CANDIDA TEST TO SEE IF NSP's NEW CANDIDA CLEAR IS RIGHT FOR YOU!
Candida Questionnaire and Score Sheet

The questionnaire is designed for adults and the scoring system isn't appropriate for children.  It lists factors in your medical history which promote the growth of Candida Albicans (Section A), and symptoms commonly found in individuals with yeast-connected illness (Sections B and C).

For each "Yes" answer in Section A, circle the point score in that section. Record your total score in the box at the end of the section. Then move on to Sections B and C and score as directed.

Filling out and scoring this questionnaire should help you evaluate the possible role of Candida in contributing to your health problems. Yet it will not provide an automatic "Yes" or "No" answer.

Section A:  History

1.Haveyou taken tetracyclines (Symycin, Panmycin, Vibramycin, Minocin, etc.)  or other antibiotics for acne for one month or longer?                                                                      25  points

2.Have you, at any time in your life, taken other "broad spectrum" antibiotics  for respiratory, urinary or other infections for 2 months or longer or in shorter courses 4 or more times in a 1-year period?                            20 points

3.Have you taken a broad spectrum antibiotic - even in a single course?                         6 points
* Including Keflex, ampicillin, amoxicillin, Ceclor, Bactrim, and Septra. Such antibiotics kill off "good germs" while they are killing off those which cause infection.

4.Have you, at anytime in your life, been bothered by persistent prostatitis, vaginitis, or other problems affecting your reproductive organs?                              25 points

5.Have been pregnant ..
       2 or more times?                                                    5 points
       1 time?                                                             3 points
 
6.Have you taken birth control pills ...
       For more than 2 years?                                             15 points
       For 6 months to 2 years?                                             8 points

7.Have you taken Prednisone, Decadron or other cortisone-type drugs ...
       For more than 2 weeks?                                          15 points
       For 2 weeks or less?                                                             6 points

8.Does exposure to perfumes, insecticides, fabric shop odors, and other chemicals provoke ...
       Moderate to severe symptoms?                                      20 points
       Mild symptoms?                                                       5 points
9.Are

10.Have you had athlete's foot, ring worm, jock itch, or other chronic fungus infections of the skin or nails?
Have such infections been ...
       Severe or persistent?                                              20 points
       Mild to moderate?                                                  10 points

11.Doyou crave sugar?                                                     10 points

12.Doyou crave breads?                                                    10 points

13.Do you crave alcoholic beverages?                                      10 points

14.Does tobacco smoke really bother you?                                  10 points

                                    Point Score ____________

Section B:  Major Symptoms

For each of your symptoms, enter the appropriate figure in the point score column:

       Occasional or Mild                              3 points
       Frequent and/or Moderately Severe       6 points
       Severe and/or Disabling                        9 points

Add total score and record it in the box at the end of this section:
        
1.  Fatigue or lethargy                                        _____
2.  Feeling of being "drained"                               _____
3.  Poor memory                                                _____   
4.  Feeling "spacey" or "unreal"                           _____
5.  Depression                                                   _____
6.  Numbness, burning, or tingling                       _____
7.  Muscle aches                                               _____
8.  Muscle weakness or paralysis                        _____
9.  Pain and/or swelling in joints                          _____
10. Abdominal pain                                            _____
11. Constipation                                                _____
12. Diarrhea                                                      _____
13. Bloating                                                      _____
14. Troublesome vaginal discharge                      _____
15. Persistent vaginal burning or itching               _____
16. Prostatitis                                                   _____
17. Impotence                                                   _____
18. Loss of sexual desire                                   _____
19. Endometriosis                                             _____
20. Cramps and/or other menstrual irregularities  _____
21. Premenstrual tension                                   _____
22. Spots in front of the eyes                             _____
23. Erratic vision                                               _____ your symptoms worse on damp, muggy days or in moldy places?                                                        20 points

                                                                          Point Score _______
Section C:  Other Symptoms
For each of your symptoms, enter the appropriate figure in the point score column:

       Occasional or Mild                               1 point
       Frequent and/or Moderately Severe     2 points
       Severe and/or Disabling                        3 points

Add total score and record it in the box at the end of this section:

1.  Drowsiness                                                _____
2.  Irritability or jitteriness                                 _____
3.  Poor coordination                                       _____
4.  Inability to concentrate                                _____
5.  Frequent mood swings                                _____
6.  Headache                                                  _____     
7.  Dizziness/loss of balance                            _____
8.  Pressure above ears, feeling of  head swelling and tingling         _____
9.  Itching                                                       _____
10. Other rashes                                             _____        
11. Heartburn                                                  _____
12. Indigestion                                                _____
13. Belching and intestinal gas                        _____
14. Mucus in stools                                       _____
15. Hemorrhoids                                             _____        
16. Dry mouth                                                _____        
17. Rash or blister in mouth                             _____
18. Bad breath                                                _____
19. Joint swelling or arthritis                             _____
20. Nasal congestion or discharge                    _____
21. Postnasal drip                                           _____
22. Nasal itching                                             _____
23. Sore or dry throat                                      _____
24. Cough                                                      _____
25. Pain or tightness in chest                          _____
26. Wheezing or shortness of breath                _____
27. Urinary urgency or frequency                     _____
28. Burning or tearing of eyes                         _____
29. Failing vision                                            _____
30. Burning on urination                                  _____
31. Recurrent infections or fluid in ears             _____
32. Ear pain or deafness                                 _____

       Total Score, Section C                            _______
       Total Score, Section A                            _______
       Total Score, Section B                            _______
       GRAND TOTAL SCORE                                 _______

The Grand Total Score will help you if your health problems are yeast-connected.  Scores in women will run higher as 7 items in the questionnaire apply exclusively to women, while only 2 apply exclusively to men.

       If your score is:       Symptoms are:

       180 (women)             Almost Certainly
       140 (men)                 Yeast Connected

       120 (women)             Probably
       90 (men)                   Yeast Connected

       60 (women)              Possibly
       40 (men)                  Yeast Connected

       Less Than:
       60 (women)              Probably Not
       40 (men)                  Yeast Connected
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
YOUR ANSWER TO OVERCOMING THE CANDIDA CHALLENGE
NATURE'S SUNSHINE CANDIDA CLEAR
Candida albicans is a natural part of the body's gut flora; however, certain factors can lead to Candida overgrowth, requiring a solution to help balance candida.
Candida albicans is a yeast-like fungus. Candida is a natural part of the body's gut flora and is also present on the skin and in mucous membranes. Under normal circumstances, Candida coexists without harmful effects. However, factors such as stress, weakened immune function, a diet high in refined carbohydrates or the use of antibiotics can lead to Candida overgrowth.
Benefits

· Helps the body maintain the normal balance of colonization of Candida albicans.
· Supports the immune system.
· Supports the intestinal tract.
Candida Clear is a 14-day cleansing program. Its dual-action approach consists of the Candida Clear Combo pack and the Candida Clear Enzyme pack.
The Combo pack is formulated with natural ingredients like pau d'arco, caprylic acid and oregano, which have been shown to help balance the colonization of Candida.
The Enzyme pack contains a proprietary blend of enzymes specially combined to provide support to the intestinal tract. Candida's cell wall is composed of a variety of components, including carbohydrates and proteins.
This proprietary formula is designed to break down candida's defenses. Candida cells are well-adapted to environmental extremes because of the protection afforded by their cell wall. The action of the carbohydrate and protein-digesting enzymes in the Candida Clear Enzyme pack may help discourage the colonization of Candida by disrupting the cell wall. Cellulase, hemicellulase, amylase and glucoamylase enzymes aid in breaking down its cellulose and carbohydrate components. Protease and bromelain specifically target proteins.
The Candida Clear Combo pack is a blend of ingredients specifically selected to help balance Candida levels. Black walnut hulls, pau d'arco, elecampane, garlic, echinacea, red raspberry leaves and oregano are renowned for their digestive system-cleansing properties.
Historically, black walnut hulls and pau d'arco have been relied upon for multiple fungal concerns.
Studies have shown that elecampane helps maintain an optimal balance of gut flora, and has specific activity against candida.
In addition to immune system support, echinacea and garlic have been shown to inhibit the activity of multiple fungal species, including candida.
Red raspberry leaves have a long history of traditional use and were frequently employed for bowel complaints.
Oregano is an aromatic herb commonly used to flavor foods. Carvacrol, an active constituent present in oregano, helps to promote balance within the digestive system.
Caprylic acid, sorbic acid and sodium propionate have demonstrated efficacy in addressing fungal concerns. These natural substances may disrupt the integrity of fungal cells and inhibit their function.
Several components of the Candida Clear Combo pack also help support immune system health. Echinacea, garlic, zinc and selenium may boost the body's defense mechanisms. These ingredients are important in protecting against free radical damage and in the function of immune cells.
Ingredients
The Candida Clear program consists of two different packets. The Candida Clear Combo cellophane packet contains two Pau d' Arco capsules, two Caprylic Acid capsules and two Yeast/Fungal Detox capsules.
The Candida Clear Enzyme cellophane packet contains two capsules of our proprietary carbohydrolytic and proteolytic enzyme blend.
Dietary Recommendations While Taking Candida Clear
Foods to avoid: sugary foods, foods high in simple carbohydrates, alcohol, starchy foods, fresh fruits, fermented foods, mushrooms, vinegar, foods high in gluten, foods that contain yeast and mold, cheese, and most other dairy products.

Foods to eat: vegetables, foods high in protein, meats, plain yogurt, nuts (almonds), berries (strawberries, raspberries), grains low in gluten (quinoa, chia, flax), and green foods. Ultimate GreenZone is an important whole food supplement to complement this diet.
The importance of probiotics: Nature's Sunshine's probiotics will help to populate the gut with friendly bacteria, a key strategy to help combat Candida overgrowth. Take either Bifidophilus Flora Force or Probiotic Eleven to help boost and repopulate your friendly bacteria.
Recommended Directions
Adults: Take one Candida Clear Combo cellophane packet three times daily with meals. Take one Candida Clear Enzyme cellophane packet three times daily on an empty stomach.
Candida Clear Stock Number #957-7

STAGES OF STRESS - General Adaptation Syndrome


1. Alarm stage



INDICATIONS
1.      Sugar Cravings

2.      Sudden fatigue in mid-afternoon about 1-3

3.      Mood

4.      Irritability or confusion when food is not eaten regularly.  

5.      Sudden coldness of limbs or nose

6.      Hyperactivity or difficulty concentrating

7.      Can't remember

8.      Circulator problems

9.  Easily tired in the summer

9.      Excess hair, particularly in women, such as     

      facial hair.

11. Infertility

12. Decreased libido

13. Thirsty

14. Dizziness or shakiness

15.    People who fly a lot

16.    Mental illness

17.    Bumpy itchy skin



Herbal Suggestions: HY-A, , Mineral Chi Tonic, Nutri-Calm



2. Resistance stage



INDICATIONS

1.         High blood pressure

2.         High blood sugar

3.         Depress healing in the body

4.         Bone loss

5.         Lowered immune response

6.         Thinning hair

7.         Muscle wasting

8.         Development of abdominal fat

9.         Feeling of tension and stress

10.     Anxiety

11.     Shallow breathing

12.     Muscle tension



Herbal Suggestions: Eleuthero, Stress-Relief, Mineral Chi Tonic, Adrenal Support, Suma, Kava



3. Exhaustion stage - Burnout.  



INDICATIONS
1.      Low blood pressure

2.      Low blood sugar

3.      Heart palpitations

4.      You want sweets and carbs

5.      Poor memory and hard time concentrating

6.      Insomnia - tired from the dreams

7.      Nervousness & Irritability

8.      Mental confusion

9.      Fatigue

10.  Low sex drive

11.  Dark purple circles under the eyes

12.  The pupils may pulse or be very large

13.  The tongue will pulse

14.  Night sweats

15.  ADD

16.  Dry skin

17.  Low body temperate

18.  Cold hands and feet

19.  Can't speak or articulate your feelings clearly

20.  Shell shock - No way to unwind



Herbal Suggestions: Nervous Fatigue Formula, B complex, Lavender Oil bath, Mineral Chi Tonic




Common foods, drinks and lifestyle habits that contribute to adrenal fatigue
Sugar - Instead: Use Stevia or Xylitol- an all-natural herbal sweetener that gives you a sweet taste without feeding candida, raising your blood sugar or robbing your body of minerals.
Coffee - Instead: Replace your morning cup of adrenaline boosting coffee with a green drink or an herbal beverage of roasted barley & chicory.
Too much animal protein - most people don't have enough stomach acid to digest animal protein properly, creating an acidic condition in their blood.  -Instead: Take HCL like Food Enzymes to break down heavy proteins or switch to lighter proteins like fish/turkey and chicken.
Processed foods strip your body of minerals making your blood acidic and your adrenals weaken quickly. Over time you will look and feel older than your age. This is one of the most important anti-aging secrets to delay and even reverse old age. - Instead: Use a NSP's Mineral Chi Tonic
Soda pop - Instead: Use organic lemon juice sweetened with stevia or xylitol to make all natural lemonade or drink water.
Drugs - this includes over the counter  and prescription drugs.


Those with adrenal/stress issues:

1.      Need Proteins which are good for your blood type.

2.      Worst enemy is caffeine and sugar - Caffeine whips the adrenals.

3.      Need to remember Hypoglycemia can also be related to alcoholism

4.      Food allergies can affect blood sugar

5.       Need to eat 6 small meals a day and include protein

6.      Need whole grains + B's + C's

7.      Chromium or Colloidal Minerals will stabilize the blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sweets.



How Stress Affects Our Health
1. Stress can Weaken Our Cardiovascular System

a.       We can eliminate coffee and caffeine, reduce salt intake and drink plenty of lemon water.  

b.      I also suggest Magnesium and Kava make great muscle relaxants.

c.       Capsicum, Garlic & Parsley combination or Blood Pressure X + nervines to help the nervous system.

d.      Oils Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Lemon.  Avoid Rosemary



2. Stress Can Weaken the Immune System

a.       The best way to have a healthy immune system is to have a healthy body.  To do this we need Minerals, EFA's, Enzymes & greens.  Your goal is to build your vital energy.

b.      Essential oils like Frankincense, tea tree, oregano, cloves, myrrh and lemon (which stimulates both red and white blood cell formation)

c. Thai Go and Probiotics are you best line of defense.

 

3.      Stress is Associated with Anxiety & Depression

     5-HTP, St. Johns Wort, Sam-e, Probiotics, Chinese Mood Elevator, Nutri-Calm, B Complex



STRESS & THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Stress is Regulated by Chemical Messengers from the Nervous & Glandular System



Nervous System

1.  Sympathetic

2.  Parasympathetic





6 KEYS TO LESS STRESS

1.  Breathe Deeply

Benefits of Deep Breathing

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

2.  Avoid Caffeine and other Stimulants

3  Avoid Sugar and other Simple Carbs

4.  Exercise Regularly

5..  Feed Your Nerves

B complex

Vitmain C

Magnesium

Potassium

Cholesterol

EFA's

NutriCalm

Panothenic Acid

Adrenal Support

Distress Remedy

Cellular Energy

6. Supplement with Adaptagens and Nervines

Nutri Calm

Stress-J

Chinese Stress Relief

Herbal Sleep

Nervous Fatigue Formula

Adrenal Support

Adaptamax

Nature's Cortisol



STESS ELIMINATORS - Simple lifestyle changes:
1.      Eat steadily, all day long.

2.      Eat More Raw Uncooked Food.

3.      Remove Negative Emotions and Negative talk

4.      Implement Positive Goals.

5.      If you "add" something to your day you will have to "subtract" something else from your day.

6.      Be assertive with people about your time.

7.      Breathe

8.      Pay off your sleep debt.

9.      Avoid energy-zappers. A variety of toxins in food and the environment contribute to a heightened adrenal response.

10.  Start your day with a good breakfast

11.  Stress management has a lot to do with controlling what you see and hear, so choose wisely.

12.  Avoid sugar, caffeine, alcohol, drugs and food additives.

13.  Pain killers will dull the function of the nervous system

14.  Exercise is powerful natural antidepressant.

15.  Get up every hour or so during work and take a break - walk down the hall and back or do some sitting or standing stretching exercises.

16.  Keep a rubber ball or silly putty at your desk and squeeze or pull it when you feel stressed.

17.     Listen to soothing music or nature sounds in your office or turn over a rain stick and relax.

18.  If you are allowed breaks, take a 5 to 15 minute power nap.

19.  Take a brisk power walk at lunch time to get your blood circulating.

20.  Don't create stress.

21.  Take Lavender baths

22..  Do Deep Breathing

23.  Try NSP's  Distress Remedy



OVERCOMING DEPRESSION

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
1.        A change in appetite or weight

2.        Inability to sleep, disturbed or excessive  sleep

3.        Restlessness or feeling "slowed down

4.        Extreme fatigue or lack of energy

5.        Difficulty in concentrating or making decisions

6.        Feelings of guilt or worthlessness,  helplessness, hopelessness or pessimism

7.        Persistent sad, anxious or empty mood,  feeling blue

8.        Loss of interest or pleasure in activities,  including sex

9.        Restlessness, irritability or excessive crying

10.   Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

11.     Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches digestive disorders and chronic pain

12.                 Dark circles under eyes


This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases.  If
you have any health problems consult a health practitioner before embarking on any course of treatment