Naturopathic Medical Doctor vs. Naturopathic Doctor: What Is the Difference?
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Every year the same House Bill is introduced into the State of Colorado—one that endangers the future of naturopathy. The bill seeks to regulate the field by licensing Naturopathic Medical Doctors (NMD) who obtained their degrees from a handful of colleges.
The problem is that the degree of NMD goes against the very core of naturopathic philosophy. Graduates of Naturopathic Medical Doctor programs incorporate the use of prescription drugs, invasive procedures, surgeries, and other philosophies found in traditional medical schools. These same doctors would become primary care physicians (PCPs) but would be lacking the medical background traditionally found in medical schools. The frightening thing is that these NMDs would receive a valid state license to diagnose and treat injuries and diseases.
At the other end of the spectrum is the Naturopathic Doctor (ND). An ND is a traditional natural healer whose focus is on education: helping their clients to improve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, finding the underlying causes of disease rather than merely treating the signs and symptoms of them. Naturopathic Doctors rely on non-invasive procedures and herbal/homeopathic remedies. Their focus is on prevention and cures.
The big problem is that both practitioners are referred to as doctors. But remember: the title of doctor does not always mean medical doctor. (There are post-graduate degrees that give the title of doctor in a variety of fields such as counseling, education, philosophy, and anthropology.)
In any field, you are going to find good practitioners and some very bad practitioners. It is important for you to decide what type of partnership you desire for your health care needs. There should be a marriage between the two types of naturopathic doctors, a complement where the two disciplines work together to provide overall improved health.
No matter what option you choose, always check the practitioner’s credentials. The field is not highly regulated, so there are many who will hang a shingle to practice and go way beyond their scope and skill. Don’t fall victim to these charlatans.
A little knowledge goes a long way to those of us who take the time to become naturally savvy!
In health and wellness,
By Dr. Linda Mundorff
Let’s Talk About Fat
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Fat is a mega-nutrient that is critical to maintaining a healthy body and brain. In the body fat is broken down into the micronutrient fatty acid where it is able to be utilized by the body. Fat, also called adipose tissue, is found in the subcutaneous layer of the skin and surrounding our vital organs. Fat assists in the absorption of many nutrients, provides protection and insulation, is a back-up energy source and storage site for fat-soluble vitamins, and assists in nerve transmission and temperature regulation.
We know that dietary fat can be found in a variety of sources: saturated, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, and trans-fat. It can make your head spin just trying to figure out what all the different terms mean. So rather than make this a discussion about what you should eat versus what you shouldn’t eat, I decided to define some of the terms associated with fat to help you identify those sources in your diet that are healthier choices and reduce or eliminate those unhealthy fat choices.
Hydrogenation: During the manufacturing process, hydrogen is added to liquid fat to solidify it and stabilize the atoms. By doing so, products can stay on the shelf longer, reducing spoilage.
Trans-fat: This is the end result of hydrogenation. Trans fat is the worst kind of fat, as it clogs arteries and makes us fat. It provides absolutely no nutritional value whatsoever.
Cholesterol: A fatty substance that is produced in the liver and necessary for a variety of bodily functions such as production of cell membranes, bile, and hormones. Because the body makes cholesterol, we need very little of it from dietary sources. Too much and it can harden and clog our arteries, which causes heart disease and stroke.
Saturated fat: Fat that is solid at room temperature. It is found in fatty cuts of meat, dairy products, butter, lard, solid shortening, many fried and processed foods, and in some plant sources such as palm and coconut oils. It raises blood cholesterol levels and results in increase risk for heart disease and stroke.
Polyunsaturated fat: A healthier form of fat that the body can better utilize. Found in vegetable oils and in omega-3 (fatty fish such as salmon, halibut, mackerel, flounder, sole, herring, trout, tuna and sardines, and in walnuts, flaxseed, and canola oil) and omega-6 (corn, sunflower, safflower, and soybean oils) products. Most Americans are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids and have too much omega-6 fatty acids in their diets. Balance between these two powerhouses is critical to maintaining healthy blood vessels and heart.
Monounsaturated fat: Fat that is liquid at room temperature and is found in olive, grapeseed, and pumpkin oils, as well as in nuts such as brazil nuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and cashews. Also found in vitamin E and avocados.
Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats are found to help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. They also help to promote healthy skin and body cell integrity, and may promote a healthy immune system.
To learn more about fat and how to keep your heart healthy, visit the National Cholesterol Education Program at www.nhibi.nih.gov/chd. With all the food choices available to us it is easy to cut out bad fat and increase healthy food choices to keep our brain and body functioning at optimal levels. A little prevention goes a long way and you will be glad you did!
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda
Probiotics
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We are born with a variety of microorganisms on our skin, in our mouth, and in our intestines, to name a few. These microorganisms constitute our normal flora and are a necessary part of maintaining a healthy body. The key to maintaining a healthy flora is balance. If just one of these microbes has an opportunity to take over, illness would result.
Many of us eat on the run, have eating regimens that contain a great deal of fried fatty foods, and little to no fiber. Introducing a group of supplements called probiotics could help bring balance and prevent the gastric upset mentioned above. Not only do probiotics help regulate our bowels; they also play a key role in providing a barrier to infection.
If you struggle with bouts of constipation and then diarrhea, it could be related to a variety of problems stemming from poor dietary intake, stress, intestinal disease, or can be the result of antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics are given to treat bacterial infections. The problem is that the antibiotic doesn’t discriminate between good and bad bacteria. So in the process of killing the bad bacteria, some or all of the good bacteria are destroyed as well. We see this mechanism in the form of severe diarrhea. Probiotics can help rebalance the intestines after antibiotic treatment.
Not all probiotics are created equally, so it is important to do your homework before you buy. You can purchase probiotics as a separate supplement in the form of lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, and others or you can purchase many dairy products that have added probiotic cultures. Note that these supplements are very fragile and subject to destruction from heat, age, and if taken with certain types of food. Also check the expiration date. Regulation of all supplements in the United States is lax, which means there is little in the form of regular testing to ensure that the consumer is getting exactly what they paid for.
Probiotic treatment is not recommended for patients who are on immunosuppressent therapy, or have had an organ transplant. Before starting any probiotic regimen it is important to discuss with your doctor any potential adverse reactions when combining probiotics with your prescription, over-the-counter medications, herbal, or homeopathic remedies. Probiotics are a wonderful adjunct to maintaining healthy intestines. But do your research first; you gut will thank you for it later.
In health and wellness,
Dr. Mundorff
How Green is Your Laundry Detergent?
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It’s in your bathroom right now. No one is immune from it, and it is something most of us hate to deal with. What is it? It’s the laundry. The fact is, we don’t often think about the kind of laundry aids we use, as the basic assumption is that they all clean the same way.
For the most part, all laundry detergents work in the same way. However, I have found that some detergents are actually too strong and contain chemicals that have given me hives and irritated my son’s eczema. So for me, my biggest concern has to do with the residual chemicals that remain on the clothing after the wash. For this reason I run all my clothing through two rinse cycles and I buy green.
So what makes your detergent green? To be classified as green or a healthier alternative to their chemical-laden counterparts, the detergent must be: dye-free, not contain chemical scents, utilize oxygen-bleach or baking soda (instead of chlorine bleach), contain plant or soybean oil (instead of animal-fat products), and instead of petroleum-based surfactants plant-based soaps are used. You can also find environmentally friendly fabric softeners and stain removers.
Surprisingly, the green alternative detergents are not more expensive than the major brands found in the grocery store. And there are many brands to choose from. Remember: your clothing is the closest thing next to your skin. Oftentimes, skin allergies can easily be traced to laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and soaps. Both my son’s eczema and my hives have dramatically improved since changing our laundry aids and adding a second rinse cycle to the laundry.
So before you start popping Benadryl and spending money on allergy testing and dermatology appointments, look to your laundry aids. A simple change in product could save you hundreds in medical expenses.
Dr. Mundorff
Topical Creams: Are They Safe?
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Topical creams are preparations that are applied to the skin; they can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC), and stronger preparations are available by prescription. Most of us don’t think about the kinds of products we rub into our skin because we assume if we can purchase it OTC it must be safe. But that assumption is incorrect, as anything you rub into the skin is going to be absorbed by the skin and can be stored in the fat layers for months at a time.
Each day we apply these creams in the form of cosmetics, moisturizers, toiletries, and medicinal preparations without giving them a second thought. Obviously, most of the creams and ointments on the market are fairly safe for everyday use. The preparations you should be most weary about are those that contain medicines such as: pain-relieving ointments, arthritis creams, vaginal itch preparations, and muscle soothing creams. In addition, if you were allergic to, say, aspirin, then you would want to stay away from any product that contains aspirin-based chemicals, whether you ingest it or apply it to the skin. (This would include herbal remedies as well.)
Your skin is the largest organ of the body. Its main purpose is to provide a barrier to the outside world: germs, dirt, air pollution, chemicals, and the like. The skin has its own temperature regulation system. It stores fat-soluble vitamins and produces vitamin D. It is important to keep your skin in tip-top shape; otherwise, it will not be able to perform optimally and your chances of getting sick will increase.
Healthy skin should be warm to the touch, soft, supple, and intact. Dry skin will eventually develop fine cracks, which provide an excellent opportunity for germs to get inside and can lead to nasty infections.
I am not saying don’t use topical preparations. As a savvy shopper you just need to be more aware of what you are putting on top of your skin. Always start by reading the ingredients on the label to first determine if you are allergic to any of them, then read and follow the directions on the label.
Don’t think that more is better. Always start with a small amount and test it on a small area of your skin. If you develop a rash, irritation, itchiness, or your skin turns pink or red, then discontinue use and contact your doctor.
Also, unless instructed by your doctor, never cover the area; always allow air to circulate around the sight where you placed the preparation. The reason is, covering an area will increase the absorption of the preparation. There are some ointments, especially medicinal ones, that you don’t want to be absorbed in this way, such as hydrocortisone creams.
Armed with knowledge, you can improve your chances of making better-informed decisions about your health and the health of those you love. You’ll be glad you did!
Dr. Mundorff
The Top Five Parasitic Infections in the U.S.
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Parasites are microorganisms – not bacteria or viruses. Unfortunately, many parasitic infections are misdiagnosed as bacterial infections and treated with antibiotics. An antibiotic will not kill a parasite.
Since parasites are difficult to diagnose, it’s important that accurate testing be done. For gastrointestinal parasitic infection, the best indicator is a stool exam. The test itself is not painful or expensive, but does require a small sample of stool. Your doctor will send you home with a kit that includes everything you need; once you get the sample you will need to send the kit back for testing.
After the diagnosis is made and a prescription is given, a repeat stool test should be done to ensure that the parasite has been killed. It is important that you take the medication as directed for the entire time required, even if you are already feeling better.
Below are the top five parasites found in the United States:
Blastocytosis
Contracted by: Poor hygiene and unsanitary conditions
Symptoms: Diarrhea, stomach pain, and gas
Cryptosporidium
Contracted by: Contaminated food or water
Symptoms: Dehydration, diarrhea, stomach cramps, weight loss, fever, nausea, and vomiting
Giardia
Contracted by: Contaminated food or water that has been in contact with animal or human feces
Symptoms: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, severe cramps
Toxoplasma Gondii
Contracted by: Contact with infected cat’s litter box
Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms
Trichomonas Vaginalis
Contracted by: Genital contact
Symptoms: Foul-smelling green-yellow vaginal discharge, vaginal swelling, itching, and redness
The best way to stop a parasitic infection is through prevention:
• Always practice good handwashing before preparing and eating food.
• Drink treated water only; mountain streams and rivers might look clean but they can be harboring all kinds microorganisms that will make you very sick.
• Clean the cat litter box daily and always wash your hands afterwards.
• Don’t fertilize your vegetable garden with untreated manure.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Cook your meat thoroughly.
• If you have an open cut, cover it. Your skin is your first line of defense against microorganisms. An open cut is an invitation in.
A little prevention goes a long way!
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda Mundorff
Living with Lupus – Part III
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Being diagnosed with lupus is no longer the death sentence it used to be. Many lupus sufferers live long and productive lives. It is all about being positive and hopeful about your success. If you have a negative attitude about your disease, then the negativity is what will make you sick. Many people live with chronic illnesses everyday and live a very happy life. Just because you have a chronic illness doesn’t mean you have to live as if you are chronically ill.
With some planning and care you should be able to stay ahead of your lupus and live a life that is full. Here is what I recommend:
Get a good night’s sleep. The body needs time to recharge and to perform self-maintenance. It does this when we sleep, so give your body about eight hours of good restful sleep every night.
Get plenty of rest. Rest is not the same as sleep. By rest, I mean give your mind and body a break. Try to lay down for a brief rest a couple of times a day. If you can’t do this, then take a mind-body break a few times during the day by closing your eyes for 10 minutes and thinking good thoughts.
Be active. Exercise is great for the body and the soul. But don’t overdo it, as lupus tends to affect the joints. If you can, try swimming or even walking in a pool. Water is very gentle to the joints and provides a great way to exercise the body.
Listen to your body. If you are tired, then rest. You are not in a competition, so please don’t overdo it.
De-stress. Stress can play havoc on the body. There are a variety of ways to manage stress: yoga, meditation, taking a bath, listening to music, journaling, or painting. Everyone is different; find what works best for you and practice it daily.
Talk about it. Keeping your emotions inside can only lead to stress and illness. So talk about your feelings – your fears, what scares you, and the like.
Stay out of the sun. The sun is not a friend of lupus; it can actually trigger a flair-up. Maximum strength sun block, loose-fitting breathable fabric, and even a wide-brim hat will help keep the sun off your skin. Also, stay indoors during the sun’s strongest part of the day.
Avoid crowds or people with infections. Your immune system is already compromised. There’s no need to tax it further.
Eat nutritiously. Food is fuel for the body. If you give the body good sources of fuel it will have the tools needed to help combat illness and give you energy.
Do not smoke. Nicotine hurts the body; it doesn’t help it.
Do not combine drugs and herbal remedies. Many people today want to be more proactive in their health, and this is good! But always check with your doctor before starting any health care regimen.
Be prepared for your doctor visits. Keep a list of issues, concerns, or changes in your condition. Partner with your doctor; he or she is there to help you.
Be proactive. Learn everything you can about your lupus. Armed with knowledge, you are powerful!
You are not alone – there are many other people in your situation. A support group is only a phone call away. Start or find one in your area! Be an active participant in your lupus care!
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda Mundorff
Covering the Basics of Lupus – Part II
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In my last blog I discussed the origins of the autoimmune disease called lupus, as well as two of the three classifications of the disease. The last type and most serious form of lupus is called systemic (system-wide) lupus. Systemic lupus can affect nearly any organ or system in the body. For example, it can affect the kidneys of the urinary system, the joints of the muscular system, or the lungs of the respiratory system. Some patients have one organ or system involved while for others it might be several organs and body systems. Obviously, the more organs and systems involved, the greater the problems in treating, preventing and mitigating any further progression of the disease.
There is no single way to diagnose lupus. A very thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history (both past and present) is coupled with the results of a series of blood tests. Because of the difficulty in diagnosing lupus, it is often misdiagnosed as something less serious or completely different, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Raynaud’s disease.
Please contact your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms: the onset of a rash or reddened area on the skin, joint pain, changes in urinary function, or shortness of breath, or if you have a family history of lupus. Remember, early intervention and treatment is the key to successful control of lupus.
The next and last part of the series (Part III) will cover how to live with lupus.
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda Mundorff
Covering the Basics of Lupus – Part I
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In this three-part series you will learn about lupus, a growing concern in our country. If lupus runs in your family then I strongly suggest you get tested. Don’t wait until you have symptoms to start taking better care of yourself.
Lupus is a chronic and progressive disease that manifests itself in the skin; however, the damage is usually occurring deep below the skin’s surface in one or more other body organs, such as the joints, kidneys, and lungs. Lupus is categorized as an autoimmune condition whereby the body’s defense system actually attacks its own cells. Normally, the body’s defense system, also known as the immune system, will only attack foreign invaders in the body. These invaders can be in the form of viruses (such as in the common cold) or something like a piece of wood (such as a splinter). Sometimes the immune system, for reasons yet unknown, will confuse its own cells as foreign, and attempt to destroy those cells. In lupus, this self-attack is characterized by inflammation or swelling, which, if left untreated, will damage surrounding tissue and organs. The disease ranges from mild flair-ups to debilitating and often life-threatening episodes.
Lupus is broken down into three distinct types: discoid lupus, systemic lupus, and drug-induced lupus. Discoid lupus only affects the skin and is characterized by a patchy, red, scaly rash most prominently found on the face, neck or scalp. Patients diagnosed with discoid lupus may also experience mouth or nose sores called ulcerations, as well as a sensitivity to the rays of the sun (photosensitivity). Drug-induced lupus is caused by a reaction to specific drugs, most notably in hydralazine, a drug used for high blood pressure, and procainamide, a drug used for cardiac rhythm problems. Because this type of lupus is drug-related, it is easier to treat than discoid lupus. The lupus will resolve itself once the medication is discontinued.
To learn about systemic lupus, tune in next week…
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda Mundorff
Smart Supplement Usage
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The major purpose of dietary supplements is to replace vitamins and minerals destroyed during food preparation and to provide the body with essential nutrients that the body doesn’t or can’t produce. Many people are under the misconception that more is better, and therefore take mega-doses of supplements or use them as meal replacements. Under certain conditions, supplementing with vitamins and minerals is important for preventing deficiencies. However, the problem lies in using supplementation instead of eating right in the first place.
Our bodies need the right kind of fuel to work properly; however, the body can only make the right kind of fuel if the proper raw materials are provided.
We can do this by:
· eating a variety of foods from a variety of sources;
· eliminating processed foods;
· eating raw, fresh produce and vegetables;
· eating lean meats that are free of hormones and chemicals;
· reducing portion sizes;
· cutting out foods high in simple sugars.
Eating right and using supplements wisely can assist in keeping the body healthy and strong.
It is important to discuss supplementation with your health care provider to ensure that your plan is safe and a true benefit to your health. Take care of yourself. You deserve longevity, but be smart, and do it right!
Dr. Linda Mundorff
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