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tuesdaygray · 5 months
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gethealthy18-blog · 5 years
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What’s the Deal With Coffee Enemas?
New Post has been published on https://healingawerness.com/news/whats-the-deal-with-coffee-enemas/
What’s the Deal With Coffee Enemas?
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I’ve covered the topic of drinking coffee, and if it’s healthy or not, in this post, but there’s actually another way to benefit from coffee. Coffee enemas may sound scary and unsanitary, but they’re incredibly beneficial for many health issues. Here I cover what’s up with coffee enemas, potential risks, and how we can benefit from consuming coffee… from the other end!
How This Interesting Practice Came to Be
Enemas have been around for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians detailed the protocol on ancient sheets of papyrus. (Imagine your job description being “nery phuyt”… or anus shepherd!) Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine, also strongly encouraged them. There are even mentions of enemas on the Dead Sea scrolls as a way to purify the body and soul.
Coffee enemas became a more widely popular practice starting in World War I. They were reportedly used for pain reduction during the war when meds were scarce. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy even considered them as standard health care treatment until 1972.
Most recently, proponents of alternative medicine (from Goop to holistic psychologists) are turning their attention back to coffee enemas as a means of detoxification.
What Is a Coffee Enema?
Yes, it really is what it sounds like!
Coffee flows into the colon via the rectum and is then expelled in a bowel movement a few minutes later. The caffeine and antioxidants in the coffee have a highly effective, yet very safe, detoxing effect on the body that is hard to replicate with other methods.
Proven Benefits of Coffee Enemas
Sounds crazy, but coffee applied to your… ahem… underside can do all this:
Liver Detox
The number one reason people use coffee enemas is for detoxifying the liver. Herbs like milk thistle are helpful at clearing toxins from the liver. However, these released toxins can be reabsorbed in the colon if the gut microbiome is impaired in any way.
When a coffee enema is used, a special pathway of veins carries toxins straight from the colon to the liver to be processed. The liver is then triggered to release bile to flush the toxins out and back into the colon. The water from the enema softens the stool, and provides a clear pathway for the toxins to exit. This process lessens the toxic load the liver deals with and frees it to cleanse the blood and eliminate toxins in other body systems. Since toxicity plays a huge role in so many issues with the body, this process can be a powerful healing tool.
Improve Gallbladder Function
As mentioned above, liver function is closely tied to the gallbladder. When bile isn’t flowing properly, biliary ducts can become inflamed and blocked, leading to gallbladder attacks and, eventually, removal of the tiny organ. Toxins also recirculate through the body as they continue to build up in the bile, instead of being eliminated. Coffee enemas stimulate the liver to release more bile. Not only does this flush toxins from the body, but it releases gallstones and keeps the bile from stagnating.
Parasite Cleanse
Most of us have little hitchhikers stowed away in our gut and don’t even realize it. Little pockets in the colon, called diverticuli, are the perfect hiding places for these parasites.
Coffee enemas help to flush out years of impacted fecal matter and debris, rooting out parasites from their hiding spots. Coffee, not just flushing with liquid in general, may weaken and harm the parasites.
Candida Cleanse
Candida occurs naturally in the body. However stress, diets high in sugar, or antibiotics can cause it to grow out of control. Enemas work to restore balance to the digestive tract by eliminating harmful organisms, like excess candida. This clears the way for healthy probiotics in the gut to do their job. (However, it won’t be enough to restore gut balance if a problematic diet and lifestyle are unchanged.)
Toxic Mold
Mold spores in the air, and the microscopic mycotoxins they produce, can devastate the body’s health. Mycotoxins, from toxic mold, have been linked to certain cancers, organ failure, and other serious issues.
A major issue with mold toxicity is that the mycotoxins continue to accumulate in the bile. The toxins are constantly reabsorbed into the body, instead of eliminated. This stimulates bile flow, get it through the colon and out of the body to help flush these toxins. It’s helpful for those with debilitating illness due to mold, or anyone who’s had minimal exposure.
Cancer?
Cancer occurs when the body is under too much oxidative stress and toxic load. Coffee enemas are a requirement in the Gerson cancer therapy. This therapy began in the 1920s with Dr. Max Gerson seeking a cure for his migraines. Over the years, followers of Gerson have adapted his therapy to a three-pronged approach to help with cancer: a vegetarian diet, ingestion of supplements, and enemas. The antioxidants in coffee enemas support healthy cellular function, and eliminate toxins which put stress on the body.
Cancer is a complex thing and must be addressed at multiple levels though, not just with coffee enemas. Cancer Research UK warns that more research is needed before substantiating claims that Gerson cancer therapy is effective. All cancer therapies should be guided by a doctor’s advice.
Better Gut Health
Dr. Natasha Campbell McBride also recommends coffee enemas as part of the gut-healing GAPS protocol. The process flushes out bacteria, parasites, and fungus that impede gut healing. It also speeds up the detox and healing process needed for whole body wellness.
Lessen Die-Off Reactions
When the body releases toxins, it can overwhelm the system and we experience unpleasant die-off reactions. These can range from emotional issues (like irritability) to physical ones (like headaches and nausea). A coffee enema helps to quickly eliminate the released toxins from the body, to reduce or erase the die-off reactions, as part of a comprehensive cleansing protocol.
Clearer Skin
Our livers process hormones and waste in the body. When the liver becomes overburdened from all of the toxins in our diet and environment, the body tries to eliminate through a different route.
The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it picks up the slack for an overtaxed liver. Hives, psoriasis, eczema, rashes and itchy skin can all be caused by toxin excretion through the skin. A coffee enema clears the way for the liver to function properly, eliminating many skin issues.
Enema Concerns & Risks
Having looked at the benefits, we should also weigh the risks. According to a 2013 pharmacokinetic study, there are potentially negative side effects to consider when administering a coffee enema.
Forewarned is forearmed… possible situations to avoid are rectal burn, proctocolitis, and electrolyte imbalance.
Rectal Burn
To prevent rectal burn, you should allow the coffee to achieve room temperature before you administer it. Test the coffee like you would formula to see if it’s too hot.
Proctocolitis
The Mayo Clinic defines proctocolitis as the inflammation of the rectum’s lining. There was one case, in Korea, in which a coffee enema resulted in proctocolitis. The patient recovered through the use of antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and bowel rest.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Sadly, there have been two documented deaths associated with daily coffee enemas. These were the result of severe electrolyte imbalance. Because coffee enemas help remove toxic metals, they can also strip some nutrient minerals from your body. To stay safe, consult with a health practitioner before you begin the regimen. You may also want to check out this recipe for a natural electrolyte sports drink.
Who Should Not Use Coffee Enemas?
Even though coffee enemas are gentle and beneficial, there are a few groups who advised against them. Pregnant moms and children younger than five can use other enemas, like salt water, but are advised against coffee enemas. Breastfeeding moms may want to exercise caution here, too.
Those with severe bowel dysfunction, like Crohn’s disease, should take special precautions with coffee enemas. Similarly, those with hypertension, ulcerative colitis, renal/heart/respiratory failure, and those who are currently undergoing chemotherapy should exercise caution and consult with a health practitioner before beginning a regime of coffee enemas. As always, consult with your doctor to determine if coffee enemas should be an option for you.
Frequency
This depends on the issue being addressed. Almost everyone can benefit from a coffee enema once in a while. For those with acute toxicity, like cancer patients, or those experiencing gallbladder attacks, coffee enemas can be done four times a day. This helps to quickly eliminate the toxins that may be causing the issue.
For those on a detox protocol, once a day is usually sufficient. Many people continue coffee enemas long term, transitioning to once a week or as needed for maintenance. It’s best to do an enema after a bowel movement and not right after eating. A full stomach and colon aren’t just uncomfortable, but impede the process.
Ask your doctor for specific advice (or use mine!) if you are wondering whether enemas are right for you and how often to use them.
How to Do a Coffee Enema
I can’t speak to this part personally, but here are some resources with details on exactly how to do a coffee enema, and what supplies are necessary. If I ever work up the courage to try it, I will be sure to share my honest review (while hopefully sparing you too many gory details!)
Could you benefit from a coffee enema? Is it something you’re willing to try or have already done? Let me know about your experience!
Sources:
Bakker, E., N.D. (2018, April 23). Enema solution for candida: How enema can help get rid of your candida. Retrieved from https://www.yeastinfection.org/enema-solution-for-candida-how-enema-can-help-get-rid-of-your-candida/
Ben Greenfield Fitness. (2019, March 12). Kion coffee enema. Retrieved from https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/article/digestion-articles/kion-coffee-enema/
Bora, K., M.D., Yoon, J., M.D., Park, S., M.D., Seo, Y., M.D., Kim, Y., M.D., Chun, H., M.D., . . . Ryu, H., M.D. (2010, January). Proctocolitis caused by coffee enemas : American journal of gastroenterology. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Citation/2010/01000/Proctocolitis_Caused_by_Coffee_Enemas.48.aspx
Cancer Research UK. (2019, April 05). Gerson therapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/gerson
Davidson, J., M.D. (2016, June 3). Coffee enema: The detox and bile flow superstar. Retrieved from https://drjaydavidson.com/coffee-enema-missing-links/
Environmental Protection Agency. (2018, October 24). Ten things you should know about mold. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/mold/ten-things-you-should-know-about-mold
Gut and Psychology Syndrome. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from http://www.gaps.me/faqs.php
Gutsy. (2017, September 18). The ultimate liver detox: Coffee enemas. Retrieved from http://www.mygutsy.com/the-ultimate-liver-detox-coffee-enemas/
Issacs, L. L., M.D. (2013, May 13). Coffee enemas: Helping the body detoxify. Retrieved from https://beatcancer.org/blog-posts/coffee-enemas-helping-the-body-detoxify
Kim, E. S., Chun, H. J., Keum, B., Seo, Y. S., Jeen, Y. T., Lee, H. S., . . . Ryu, H. S. (2014, July 29). Coffee enema for preparation for small bowel video capsule endoscopy: A pilot study. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4135241/
Pope, S. (2019, May 15). Do coffee enemas harm gut flora? Retrieved from https://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/coffee-enemas-and-gut-flora/
PureLife. (n.d.). Acne? Try a coffee enema! Retrieved from https://www.purelifeenema.com/acne-try-a-coffee-enema/
Teekachunhatean, S., Tosri, N., Rojanasthien, N., Srichairatanakool, S., & Sangdee, C. (2013, March 4). Pharmacokinetics of caffeine following a single administration of coffee enema versus oral coffee consumption in healthy male subjects. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3603218/
The Gerson Institute. (2019, April 10). Coffee enema – 8 things you need to know. Retrieved from https://gerson.org/gerpress/coffee-enema-8-things-you-need-to-know/
UBiome. (2016, February 22). The 800-pound enema syringe, curious Ancient Egyptian job titles, and a pretty strange place to put your pipe. Retrieved from https://ubiome.com/blog/post/the-800-pound-enema-syringe-curious-ancient-egyptian-job-titles-and-a-pretty-strange-place-to-put-your-pipe/
Source: https://wellnessmama.com/414785/coffee-enemas/
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doyouthatknow · 5 years
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What is Necrotizing Fasciitis?
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Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an infection that affects the fascia and leads to rapidly spreading tissue death and rapidly spreading to include adjacent soft tissue. It is also called meat-eating disease (bacteria). Several different types of meat-eating bacteria can cause life-threatening conditions that affect both healthy and individuals with underlying medical problems. Although rare, there has been an increase in the incidence of necrotizing fasciitis in the last decade. Although probably not adequately reported, the annual incidence of necrotizing fasciitis is estimated to be approximately 500-1,000 cases per year with a prevalence of 0.40 cases per 100,000 populations per year. Early diagnosis and emergency treatment of necrotizing fasciitis is critical to managing the potentially devastating consequences of this medical emergency. What is the history of necrotizing fasciitis? One of the first definitions of necrotizing fasciitis was the diagnosis of erysipelas. It came from Hippocrates in the 5th century. Although necrotizing fasciitis has existed for centuries, more detailed explanations of this condition have been reported in the early 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1952, B. Wilson first used the term necrotizing fasciitis to describe this condition, and it remained the term most commonly used in modern medicine. Other terms used to describe this same condition include meat-eating bacterial syndrome, necrotizing soft tissue infection, suppurative fasciitis, dermal gangrene, streptococcal gangrene, hospital gangrene, necrotizing cellulitis, Melener's ulcer and Melener's gangrene. When necrotizing fasciitis affects the genital area, it is often referred to as Fournier's gangrene. What Causes and Risk Factors of Necrotizing Fasciitis?
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Most cases of necrotizing fasciitis are caused by bacteria, but fungi can rarely cause it. Most cases of necrotizing fasciitis originate from group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, but many bacteria may be isolated and associated with other bacterial pathogens. Group A is the same bacterium responsible for streptococci, strep throat, impetigo (skin infection) and rheumatic fever. In recent years, there has been an increase in intravenous drug addicts in cases of necrotizing fasciitis caused by community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Most cases of necrotizing fasciitis are polymicrobial and include both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Additional bacterial organisms that may be isolated in cases of necrotizing fasciitis include Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Proteus, Vibrio, Most cases of necrotizing fasciitis have a previous history of trauma, such as cuts, abrasions, insect bites, burns or needle sores. These lesions may initially appear insignificant or small. Surgical incision sites and various surgical procedures may also serve as a source of infection. In most cases, however, there is no obvious source of infection or entry portal to explain the cause. https://www.orak11.com/index.php/how-to-make-money-from-home/ Once the bacterial pathogen has gained entry, the infection can spread from subcutaneous tissues to involve deeper facial planes. Infection spreads progressively rapidly, sometimes involving adjacent soft tissues, including muscle, fat and skin. Various bacterial enzymes and toxins cause vascular obstruction, resulting in tissue hypoxia and tissue necrosis. In most cases, these tissue conditions allow the proliferation of anaerobic bacteria, allowing the progressive spread of infection and the continued destruction of tissue. There is also a risk of developing necrotizing fasciitis in people with underlying medical problems and a weak immune system. Various medical conditions such as diabetes, renal failure, liver disease, cancer, peripheral vascular disease and HIV infection are frequently present in patients who develop necrotizing fasciitis, such as those receiving chemotherapy. In addition, patients undergoing organ transplants and receiving corticosteroids for various reasons, alcoholics and drug addicts are at risk. However, most cases of necrotizing fasciitis occur in a healthy individual and in healthy cases without predisposing factors. For classification purposes, necrotizing fasciitis is divided into three groups, primarily based on the microbiology of the underlying infection. Type 1 NF is caused by multiple bacterial species (polymicrobial), type 2 NF is caused by a single bacterial species (monomicrobial), typically Streptococcus pyogenes; type 3 NF (gas gangrene) is caused by Clostridium spp, type 4 NF is caused by fungal infections, particularly Candida spp. And infection caused by Zygomycetes Vibrio spp. (Often Vibrio vulnificus) is a variable form that is frequently seen in people with liver disease. It usually occurs after eating seafood or exposing skin wounds to sea water contaminated by this organism.
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Is Necrotizing Fasciitis Infectious?
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Necrotizing fasciitis is not considered an infectious disease. However, it is theoretically possible that an individual is infected with the same organism, for example an MRSA infection, which causes necrotizing fasciitis in a person in direct contact with them. Although it is possible for the exposed individual to continue to develop necrotizing fasciitis, it is very rare and unlikely. What are the symptoms? Symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis vary according to the degree and progression of the disease. Necrotizing fasciitis usually affects the extremity or genital area, although it is in any part of the body. During the course of the disease, patients with necrotizing fasciitis may initially look deceptively good and may not show any superficial signs of an underlying infection. Some people may complain of pain similar to the muscle initially taken. However, as the infection spreads rapidly, symptoms of serious illness become apparent. Necrotizing fasciitis usually appears as a localized area of ​​redness, warmth, swelling and pain that resembles a superficial skin infection. Often, patients' pain and tenderness are not commensurate with visible signs of the skin. There may be fever and chills. The skin's redness spreads rapidly over hours and the skin can be dark, purplish or dark. Overlapping blisters, necrotic siblings (black shells), skin hardening, skin deterioration and wound drainage may develop. Sometimes a subtle crackling sensation can be felt in the tissues under the skin. Severe pain and tenderness may be reduced due to subsequent nerve damage and may lead to localized anesthesia of the affected area. If left untreated, infection continues to spread and generalized physical detention, it can often lead to sepsis and often death. Other symptoms associated with necrotizing fasciitis may include malaise, nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, and confusion. When to seek medical help? Immediate identification and treatment of necrotizing fasciitis is critical to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome. Due to the rapid progression of this condition, detailed screening and early diagnosis are required to initiate immediate treatment immediately. Individuals with underlying medical problems or a weak immune system should be particularly vigilant. If any of the following symptoms occur, a healthcare professional should be consulted:  • An unexplained skin rash, temperature, tenderness or swelling area with or without a history of skin trauma •  Changes in skin color or skin texture  • Drain from an open wound  • Fever or chills • Intense pain or discomfort of the body area that has previously been traumatized or not traumatized  If a person has previously been evaluated by a healthcare professional and the above symptoms have progressed or the person cannot recover, an antibiotic treatment at home should be re-evaluated immediately. If necrotizing fasciitis is suspected, an accelerated surgical consultation is needed. Tests and Inspection
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Diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is usually predicted initially based on the patient's history and physical examination findings. Although there are several laboratory tests and imaging studies that can help make the diagnosis, immediate results may not be immediately available. Therefore, in any patient with signs or symptoms suggestive of necrotizing fasciitis, a high index of suspicion should be promptly discussed with a surgeon to accelerate management. The tests are as follows:  • Laboratory tests: include various blood tests, such as a complete blood count, which may reveal an elevated number of white blood cells. Electrolyte panels, blood cultures and other blood tests are also generally obtained. However, the results of these blood tests cannot be used solely for an immediate diagnosis. • Imaging studies such as CT scan, MRI and ultrasound: These imaging studies have been used successfully to identify cases of necrotizing fasciitis. It can be used when symptoms are equivalent or when the diagnosis is suspicious. These methods can help determine the degree of infection, as well as identify fluid areas, inflammation, and gas fields within the soft tissue. Although occasional plain radiographs may show gas in soft tissue, they are considered less useful and less valuable. Imaging studies in cases suggesting necrotizing fasciitis should not delay the definitive treatment.  • Tissue culture, tissue biopsy and gram staining results: It can help to accurately identify the organisms responsible for infection, and this can help guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Are There Home Remedies for Necrotizing Fasciitis? • Necrotizing fasciitis is an emergency that cannot be managed at home.  • Patients with necrotizing fasciitis require hospital admission, appropriate IV antibiotics, surgical debridement, and close observation in the intensive care unit. What are Necrotizing Fasciitis Treatments? • When the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is suspected or confirmed, urgent measures should be taken to promptly intervene treatment to reduce Necrotizing analytes. Medical treatment of necrotizing fasciitis mainly involves the use of much less used antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and intravenous immunoglobulin. Definitive treatment for necrotizing fasciitis ultimately requires surgical intervention.  • Initial treatment includes patient stabilization, including additional oxygen, cardiac monitoring, and intravenous fluid delivery.  • Some patients with sepsis may require the administration of intravenous medications to increase blood pressure and require a breathing tube in case of serious illness or respiratory failure.  • Intensive care requires close monitoring and supportive care. Antibiotics of Necrotizing Fasciitis • Broad-spectrum antibiotics should be started immediately. Since responsible organisms are not initially known, antibiotics should cover a wide variety of organisms including aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as anaerobes. Consideration of infection caused by MRSA should also be considered.  • There are various antibiotic regimens that may include monotherapy or multidrug regimens. Commonly recommended antibiotics include penicillin, ampicillin-sulbactam, clindamycin, aminoglycosides, metronidazole, carbapenems, vancomycin and linezolid. Most clinicians treat multiple IV antibiotics because bacteria that cause necrotizing fasciitis are usually resistant to more than one antibiotic and some infections are caused by more than one bacterial species. • Antibiotic coverage can be adjusted when culture results, causative organisms, organisms are identified and antibiotic susceptibility results are found. Antibiotic susceptibility testing is required to properly treat MRSA and new NDM-1 antibiotic-resistant bacteria species. https://www.orak11.com/index.php/balance-diet-plan/ Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO) This therapy gives patients in a special room a high concentration of oxygen, thereby increasing tissue oxygenation. This inhibits anaerobic bacteria and promotes tissue healing. Some researchers believe that HBO reduces mortality in some patients when combined with an aggressive treatment regimen including surgery and antibiotics. HBO is not commonly available, so consultation with a hyperbaric specialist may be necessary. However, this should not delay definitive surgical treatment. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Some investigators believe that IVIG may be a useful adjunctive treatment in some cases of streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis, as it has been shown to successfully neutralize streptococcal ecotoxins in Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. However, its use in necrotizing fasciitis is controversial and is therefore not considered a standard of care. Surgical intervention Rapid surgical debridement of infected tissue is the cornerstone of treatment in cases of necrotizing fasciitis. Early diagnosis and emergency surgery have been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality, which emphasize the importance of early surgical involvement and consultation. Comprehensive surgical debridement is required in all necrotic tissues. Infected all tissues, fascia, muscle, skin and so on. Large and deep incisions may be required to excise until healthy, viable tissue appears. Repeated surgical debridement is required between the following hours and days after the first surgical intervention, because the progression of the disease may not be sudden, severe and stubborn. Sepsis may lead to other sites of infection, and surgical intervention may be required in these areas, which may also require some patients to require amputation. In some cases, despite repeated surgical debridement, Follow-up After Treatment Patients recovering from necrotizing fasciitis usually require follow-up with various specialists depending on the complications encountered during hospital stay and subsequent outcomes. Many patients require physical therapy and rehabilitation with skin graft and reconstructive surgery. Sometimes psychological intervention is required for some patients who may experience depression, anxiety, or other psychological repercussions. Disease Prevention
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Preventive measures may be taken to reduce the likelihood of necrotizing fasciitis, however, not all cases may be completely preventable, as the underlying cause is usually not identified. Since many cases start after some kind of skin trauma, proper wound care and treatment are important. All wounds should be kept clean and any signs of infection should be observed. Early detection and treatment of infection may be the best measure to prevent necrotizing of this disease. If any signs of infection occur, seek medical attention immediately. Patients with underlying medical problems, such as diabetes, should pay attention to any signs of infection, and people with weakened immune systems should take precautions to avoid exposure to potential infections. For people with liver disease it is recommended to avoid seafood and direct contact with hot sea water potentially contaminated with Vibrio species. People with active skin infections or open wounds should be avoided in jacuzzis, swimming pools and natural water sources. Good personal hygiene and frequent handwashing can prevent infection and control the spread of infection. Compliance with the appropriate sterile surgical technical rules and gloves, gowns, masks, etc. in hospitals. strict barrier measures should be observed. And the implementation of isolation measures may also prevent health personnel from preventing the development and spread of infection. What is the Prognosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis? Prognosis for patients with necrotizing fasciitis depends on many factors such as patient age, underlying medical problems, causal organisms, the extent of infection, and the duration of diagnosis and onset of treatment. Early diagnosis and aggressive surgery and medical treatment are the most important factors in determining the outcome. Necrotizing fasciitis is a life and limb threatening condition with poor prognosis if left untreated. Complications and potential outcomes may include limb loss, scarring, deformity and disability, while many patients continue to develop sepsis, multiple system organ failure and death. Disease rates are as follows:  • Combined morbidity and mortality rates have been reported to range from 70% to 80%.  • Mortality rates in the scientific literature range from 8.7% to 76%. • The mortality rate for untreated necrotizing fasciitis approaches approximately 100%. https://www.orak11.com/index.php/hair-follicle-infection-folliculitis-and-treatment/ References: cdc.gov sepsis.org drugs.com Read the full article
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addictionfreedom · 6 years
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Crack Addiction Behavior
Contents
Eating disorder and drug the
And develop erratic behavior that places
From addiction with proven and proprietary
Street drug often called
Crack Addiction Behavior. Crack addiction behavior may vary from person to person. However, there is some general crack addiction behavior that is common to all addicts.
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Jul 18, 2017 … Crack is extremely addictive, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, and can be smoked, snorted or dissolved in water and injected into a vein. … Individuals using crack often miss work, distance themselves from their loved ones and develop erratic behavior that places a strain on personal and …
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Includes: shows lack of concern with personal hygiene, has a lack of interest in family, friends, or job, experiences changes in sleeping habits, and displays anxiety …
Crack cocaine is a potent drug that can cause addiction after only one hit. Thousands of people struggle with an addiction to this powerful drug. Although the effects …
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Witnessing crack addict behavior? Learn the warning signs of crack cocaine. Cocaine is a potent, addictive stimulant drug with a high potential for abuse and addiction.
This form of cocaine is called Crack, … How can people get treatment for cocaine addiction? Behavioral therapy may be used to treat cocaine addiction.
Feb 5, 2018 … Other signs of crack abuse to look for include: Frequent disappearances (to get high); Dilated pupils; Aggressive behavior; Restlessness; Increased breathing rate; Uncharacteristic irresponsibility; Cracked or blistered lips from smoking out of a hot pipe; Burns on fingers …
The man was fresh out of prison and addicted to crack cocaine. His erratic behavior sparked Mayfield’s curiosity … sure the doctors had discovered her crack addiction. The office had tested her blood, but cocaine was not the reason for …
Aug 30, 2008 … This study describes binge use of crack cocaine, binge users, and their sexual risk behaviors in a sample of 303 African-American, HIV-positive users. Recent binge use was defined as, “using as much crack cocaine as you can, until you run out of crack or are unable to use any more” in the last 30 days.
Crack addiction is a dangerous and often deadly disease. You need help to break the cycle of crack addiction before it is too late for you find help right here.
The more processed and fatty the food, the more it was associated with addictive eating behaviors. Cheese happens to be especially addictive because of an ingredient called casein, a protein found in all milk products. During digestion, …
Addiction Treatment Providers Insurance Program Contents Challenges people face that can Cigna health insurance Adults are not eligible Proven and proprietary treatment methods The right help Sep 20, 2017 … As an approved in-network provider, BoardPrep treats all Baycare team members , including nurses, respiratory therapists and other licensed health … Furthermore , BoardPrep customizes Addiction Treatment plans to better
The results of abusing crack cocaine are so severe that only the most powerful addiction would keep a person using this drug.
Larry Hogue, the crack-addicted, homeless veteran who residents of West … Though neighborhood residents have described many incidents of threatening or irrational behavior, Mr. Hogue has never seriously hurt anyone, so he has …
How Crack Addiction Develops. Prolonged use of crack can lead to a crack addiction. Once a person has a crack addiction, they will engage in frequent and impulsive drug-seeking behavior and will feel that they need crack to function. Crack addiction develops quickly, especially because of the fact that the drug's effects …
Learn about cocaine addiction causes, withdrawals, side effects, warning signs & symptoms of cocaine abuse. Options Behavioral Health. … Cocaine, an illegal street drug often called “blow,” “coke,” and “crack” on the streets, is a recreational drug that is created by purifying an extract from the leaves of the Erythroxylum …
The post Crack Addiction Behavior appeared first on Freedom From Addiction II.
0 notes
fishermariawo · 7 years
Text
Alternative Therapies For ADHD: Part 2
With 6.1 million children in this country bearing a past or present ADHD diagnosis, it’s little wonder folks had a lot to say in the initial post I did on the subject a few months back.  For the most part, people were pumped to discover new potential therapies for themselves or loved ones, or at the very least to find validation in their own hunt for side effect free ADHD treatment. Others questioned the validity of certain alternative approaches, and still more posed questions about other treatments they’d heard about or were interested in.
Is there any substance to the other alternative therapies I added in passing within that previous post? What else shows promise? Let’s dig in….
Neurofeedback Strategies
Many of those seeking other answers to the ADHD question have probably heard mention of neurofeedback, which continues as a debated prospect. As far back as the 1930s, the EEG was being used to condition certain parts of the brain and teach “voluntary control” over a person’s alpha blocking response. In essence, this neurofeedback therapy is intended to enable a person with ADHD to regulate their brain activity, thereby enhancing concentration and moderating behavioral difficulties.
For the most part, controversy surrounding neurofeedback strategies for ADHD has stemmed from a high degree of heterogeneity amongst study approaches, with a definite lack of standardized protocols. Despite this, however, there has been an overwhelmingly positive flood of results from neurofeedback studies through the years, with a 2009 meta-analysis showing substantial impact for inattention and impulsivity, and lesser but still substantive effects for hyperactivity.
A more recent literature review suggests that while certain previous studies may have had overinflated results, trials that followed standardized protocols have reported statistically significant and reliable results in treatment of ADHD. Thus, while neurofeedback therapies aren’t universally successful, they’re definitely worth looking into.
Acupuncture
Skim the literature for recent research on acupuncture therapies for ADHD, and you’ll find that most applicable studies have used acupuncture in conjunction with common pharma treatments. This in itself doesn’t reduce the value of the studies, as complementary therapies are often far more effective than standalone ones; however, it does muddy the waters a little in terms of standardizing results.
A Chinese study published in 2015 divided 120 participants into two groups: one receiving acupuncture and psychological therapy, and another receiving methylphenidate. After 12 weeks of therapy, the acupuncture group had significantly better hyperactivity scores than the drug group. In the same year, an Iranian team of researchers showed that just 12 acupuncture sessions in a small group of children already on methylphenidate could improve ADHD symptoms by 23-72%. Because of the small cohort, however, and the lack of control, the results should obviously be taken with a grain of salt.
Finally, a 2015 meta-analysis covering 13 trials and 1304 subjects concluded that acupuncture was either just as effective or superior to other treatments (pharmacotherapy or behavioral therapy) in addressing symptoms of ADHD, with the added benefit of fewer side effects.
Personally, I wouldn’t put all my eggs in the acupuncture basket, but as a complementary therapy it shows promise.
Coaching
Following my first post, someone pointed out that I’d skipped over a very valuable ADHD therapy: coaching. Everyone is different when it comes to ADHD, and what works for one invariably doesn’t work for another. Most conventional treatments, and even some of the more alternative ones, either don’t or aren’t able to account for this individuality, making the success rate very hit-and-miss. The beauty of coaching is that it’s individually tailored to suit each person’s needs, and I like that there’s an element of accountability combined with a sociable face-to-face aspect that you simply don’t get with a lot of other treatments.
And when we look beyond the subjective, coaching really does work. A 2009 study of 45 adults with ADHD found that coaching had a “positive impact on the lives of people with ADHD,” while a slew of studies on ADHD college students showed that coaching helped to improve grades, boost learning, elevate self-esteem and make academic goals more attainable.
GABA
Research shows that ADHD is often associated with a deficit in Gamma-aminobutyric acid, more conveniently known as GABA. A small 2012 study used MRI to determine that children with ADHD had reduced GABA concentrations when compared to control subjects, a finding that’s mirrored in animal studies and has more recently been linked to GABAergic inhibitory neurons.
It stands to reason, then, that supplementing with GABA could improve symptoms of ADHD. Unfortunately, GABA supplementation for the treatment of ADHD isn’t well studied, and certain specialists maintain that supplemental GABA isn’t able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Then there’s the whole correlation vs. causation argument, but we won’t go into that.
In fact, I couldn’t track down a single study supporting the use of GABA for treatment of ADHD. An extensive search yielded repeated mention of a standalone study, in which a Japanese medical faculty research team used a natural form of GABA to elicit higher test success rates in students; however, the study itself remains elusive.
While anecdotal evidence suggests it might help with ADHD, I’d be inclined to wait this one out until we know more.
L-Carnitine
After the previous post, someone commented on the potential benefits of L-carnitine for ADHD. I got to digging, and while I didn’t come up with a lot, I did find preliminary research in the past two decades that shows a possible positive effect from L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) supplementation for symptoms of ADHD.
In an earlier Dutch study, 13 out of 24 boys with ADHD who received L-carnitine showed improved behavior both at home and in school. In a 2007 study, 112 ADHD children between the ages of 5 and 12 received weight-based doses of 500-1500 mg ALC twice a day for 16 weeks. While teachers didn’t notice a significant difference in inattention overall, when divided into ADHD subtype there were marked differences: ALC produced superior results in inattentive type children, while it had the opposite effect in combined type children. Clearly, ALC may work for some, but it may make the situation worse for others.
Caffeine
Following the previous post, several people noting that caffeine was actually a pretty useful tool when it comes to ADHD. One person commented that, while caffeine disrupted her sleep, it also helped to improve her focus. Another said much the same thing, pointing out that caffeine can act as a stopgap for that dopamine dis-regulation that’s so part and parcel with ADHD. And, of course, most standard medication therapies for ADHD are stimulants. 
That being said, caffeine is surely a double-edged sword. On the therapeutic side of the story, several animal studies have been published examining the role of caffeine as a less side effect-laden stimulant drug in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. A 2011 study found that 14 days of caffeine treatment in rats with induced ADHD brought on a significant improvement in attention deficit symptoms. An earlier study showed that pre-test administration of 1-10 mg/kg caffeine in spontaneously hypertensive rats (considered the genetic equivalent of ADHD humans) significantly improved spatial learning deficits.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s a lot we still don’t know about the diverse effects caffeine exerts on the human brain, particularly in the case of children. While most research suggests that caffeine is generally well tolerated in “normal” concentrations, children are increasingly being exposed to caffeine above and beyond what might be considered normal. And while a child (or even an adult, for that matter) without cognitive issues might not display any adverse side effects to caffeine, all studies agree that caffeine response is very individual-specific. In higher amounts, caffeine is infamously associated with impaired sleep—a known catalyst for worsening ADHD symptoms—and in anxious people it can dramatically increase levels of anxiety. For some, it might be worth discussing with your physician, particularly if you’re not taking other stimulant drugs or looking for a combination of strategies to get off of a stimulant prescription.
B Vitamins
One of our commenters mentioned that she recommends water soluble b-vitamin complexes as part of a healthy regime for keeping ADHD symptoms at a low level. And I’m inclined to agree that this is a good approach, knowing that many people are typically deficient in many of the b vitamins and considering the important role they play in brain development and cognitive health.
While studies that specifically address possible links between b-vitamin deficiencies and risk/severity of ADHD are thin on the ground, this 2010 paper piqued my interest. It examined the role that b vitamins play in the central nervous system, pointing out that b vitamins elicit a similar dopaminergic effect to agonists like methylphenidate. It stands to reason, then, that upping b vitamin intake (primarily through food but secondarily through a good B complex) might serve as a viable alternative (or at least complementary therapy) to side effect laden dopamine agonist drugs.
Add to the fact that supplementing with folate, B12 and B6 has been shown to limit brain atrophy and cognitive impairment, and there’s very little reason why anyone wouldn’t prioritize this group of vitamins. As always, consult the doctor first though.
Keto Diet
Someone last time noted how surprised they were that I hadn’t covered the potential benefits of ketogenic-style diets for ADHD treatment. My main reason for this was a lack of studies examining the keto-ADHD link, but it’s a worthwhile discussion.
The only study I’m aware of directly applying keto to ADHD is one on dogs, strangely enough. Published in 2016, researchers found that placing dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy on a keto-style diet for 3 months helped to significantly reduce ADHD-related behaviors. Back in the human arena, there’s of course a trove of research demonstrating the impressive results ketogenic diets can have on conditions like bipolar mood disorders, Parkinson’s disease, MS, traumatic brain injury, and others.
It doesn’t take much of a leap to establish a possible positive connection between going occasionally keto and improving certain ADHD symptoms, especially those associated with focus and concentration. Once again, this will be an individual process, and not everyone will respond favorably to a ketogenic diet. With kids, in particular, consult your doctor, but for adults and older teens give it a go and see how your body responds.
Finally, I’ll add that there are plenty more suggested strategies and therapies I haven’t yet touched upon, and research continues to highlight new prospects.
In the meantime, it’s all about safe experimentation. No one practitioner or coach is ever going to have all the answers, so it’s up to each of us to do the research, think critically, and assemble what works for us or our loved ones.
Thanks for reading everyone. Be sure to post your thoughts, suggestions and questions in the comments below.
0 notes
milenasanchezmk · 7 years
Text
Alternative Therapies For ADHD: Part 2
With 6.1 million children in this country bearing a past or present ADHD diagnosis, it’s little wonder folks had a lot to say in the initial post I did on the subject a few months back.  For the most part, people were pumped to discover new potential therapies for themselves or loved ones, or at the very least to find validation in their own hunt for side effect free ADHD treatment. Others questioned the validity of certain alternative approaches, and still more posed questions about other treatments they’d heard about or were interested in.
Is there any substance to the other alternative therapies I added in passing within that previous post? What else shows promise? Let’s dig in….
Neurofeedback Strategies
Many of those seeking other answers to the ADHD question have probably heard mention of neurofeedback, which continues as a debated prospect. As far back as the 1930s, the EEG was being used to condition certain parts of the brain and teach “voluntary control” over a person’s alpha blocking response. In essence, this neurofeedback therapy is intended to enable a person with ADHD to regulate their brain activity, thereby enhancing concentration and moderating behavioral difficulties.
For the most part, controversy surrounding neurofeedback strategies for ADHD has stemmed from a high degree of heterogeneity amongst study approaches, with a definite lack of standardized protocols. Despite this, however, there has been an overwhelmingly positive flood of results from neurofeedback studies through the years, with a 2009 meta-analysis showing substantial impact for inattention and impulsivity, and lesser but still substantive effects for hyperactivity.
A more recent literature review suggests that while certain previous studies may have had overinflated results, trials that followed standardized protocols have reported statistically significant and reliable results in treatment of ADHD. Thus, while neurofeedback therapies aren’t universally successful, they’re definitely worth looking into.
Acupuncture
Skim the literature for recent research on acupuncture therapies for ADHD, and you’ll find that most applicable studies have used acupuncture in conjunction with common pharma treatments. This in itself doesn’t reduce the value of the studies, as complementary therapies are often far more effective than standalone ones; however, it does muddy the waters a little in terms of standardizing results.
A Chinese study published in 2015 divided 120 participants into two groups: one receiving acupuncture and psychological therapy, and another receiving methylphenidate. After 12 weeks of therapy, the acupuncture group had significantly better hyperactivity scores than the drug group. In the same year, an Iranian team of researchers showed that just 12 acupuncture sessions in a small group of children already on methylphenidate could improve ADHD symptoms by 23-72%. Because of the small cohort, however, and the lack of control, the results should obviously be taken with a grain of salt.
Finally, a 2015 meta-analysis covering 13 trials and 1304 subjects concluded that acupuncture was either just as effective or superior to other treatments (pharmacotherapy or behavioral therapy) in addressing symptoms of ADHD, with the added benefit of fewer side effects.
Personally, I wouldn’t put all my eggs in the acupuncture basket, but as a complementary therapy it shows promise.
Coaching
Following my first post, someone pointed out that I’d skipped over a very valuable ADHD therapy: coaching. Everyone is different when it comes to ADHD, and what works for one invariably doesn’t work for another. Most conventional treatments, and even some of the more alternative ones, either don’t or aren’t able to account for this individuality, making the success rate very hit-and-miss. The beauty of coaching is that it’s individually tailored to suit each person’s needs, and I like that there’s an element of accountability combined with a sociable face-to-face aspect that you simply don’t get with a lot of other treatments.
And when we look beyond the subjective, coaching really does work. A 2009 study of 45 adults with ADHD found that coaching had a “positive impact on the lives of people with ADHD,” while a slew of studies on ADHD college students showed that coaching helped to improve grades, boost learning, elevate self-esteem and make academic goals more attainable.
GABA
Research shows that ADHD is often associated with a deficit in Gamma-aminobutyric acid, more conveniently known as GABA. A small 2012 study used MRI to determine that children with ADHD had reduced GABA concentrations when compared to control subjects, a finding that’s mirrored in animal studies and has more recently been linked to GABAergic inhibitory neurons.
It stands to reason, then, that supplementing with GABA could improve symptoms of ADHD. Unfortunately, GABA supplementation for the treatment of ADHD isn’t well studied, and certain specialists maintain that supplemental GABA isn’t able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Then there’s the whole correlation vs. causation argument, but we won’t go into that.
In fact, I couldn’t track down a single study supporting the use of GABA for treatment of ADHD. An extensive search yielded repeated mention of a standalone study, in which a Japanese medical faculty research team used a natural form of GABA to elicit higher test success rates in students; however, the study itself remains elusive.
While anecdotal evidence suggests it might help with ADHD, I’d be inclined to wait this one out until we know more.
L-Carnitine
After the previous post, someone commented on the potential benefits of L-carnitine for ADHD. I got to digging, and while I didn’t come up with a lot, I did find preliminary research in the past two decades that shows a possible positive effect from L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) supplementation for symptoms of ADHD.
In an earlier Dutch study, 13 out of 24 boys with ADHD who received L-carnitine showed improved behavior both at home and in school. In a 2007 study, 112 ADHD children between the ages of 5 and 12 received weight-based doses of 500-1500 mg ALC twice a day for 16 weeks. While teachers didn’t notice a significant difference in inattention overall, when divided into ADHD subtype there were marked differences: ALC produced superior results in inattentive type children, while it had the opposite effect in combined type children. Clearly, ALC may work for some, but it may make the situation worse for others.
Caffeine
Following the previous post, several people noting that caffeine was actually a pretty useful tool when it comes to ADHD. One person commented that, while caffeine disrupted her sleep, it also helped to improve her focus. Another said much the same thing, pointing out that caffeine can act as a stopgap for that dopamine dis-regulation that’s so part and parcel with ADHD. And, of course, most standard medication therapies for ADHD are stimulants. 
That being said, caffeine is surely a double-edged sword. On the therapeutic side of the story, several animal studies have been published examining the role of caffeine as a less side effect-laden stimulant drug in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. A 2011 study found that 14 days of caffeine treatment in rats with induced ADHD brought on a significant improvement in attention deficit symptoms. An earlier study showed that pre-test administration of 1-10 mg/kg caffeine in spontaneously hypertensive rats (considered the genetic equivalent of ADHD humans) significantly improved spatial learning deficits.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s a lot we still don’t know about the diverse effects caffeine exerts on the human brain, particularly in the case of children. While most research suggests that caffeine is generally well tolerated in “normal” concentrations, children are increasingly being exposed to caffeine above and beyond what might be considered normal. And while a child (or even an adult, for that matter) without cognitive issues might not display any adverse side effects to caffeine, all studies agree that caffeine response is very individual-specific. In higher amounts, caffeine is infamously associated with impaired sleep—a known catalyst for worsening ADHD symptoms—and in anxious people it can dramatically increase levels of anxiety. For some, it might be worth discussing with your physician, particularly if you’re not taking other stimulant drugs or looking for a combination of strategies to get off of a stimulant prescription.
B Vitamins
One of our commenters mentioned that she recommends water soluble b-vitamin complexes as part of a healthy regime for keeping ADHD symptoms at a low level. And I’m inclined to agree that this is a good approach, knowing that many people are typically deficient in many of the b vitamins and considering the important role they play in brain development and cognitive health.
While studies that specifically address possible links between b-vitamin deficiencies and risk/severity of ADHD are thin on the ground, this 2010 paper piqued my interest. It examined the role that b vitamins play in the central nervous system, pointing out that b vitamins elicit a similar dopaminergic effect to agonists like methylphenidate. It stands to reason, then, that upping b vitamin intake (primarily through food but secondarily through a good B complex) might serve as a viable alternative (or at least complementary therapy) to side effect laden dopamine agonist drugs.
Add to the fact that supplementing with folate, B12 and B6 has been shown to limit brain atrophy and cognitive impairment, and there’s very little reason why anyone wouldn’t prioritize this group of vitamins. As always, consult the doctor first though.
Keto Diet
Someone last time noted how surprised they were that I hadn’t covered the potential benefits of ketogenic-style diets for ADHD treatment. My main reason for this was a lack of studies examining the keto-ADHD link, but it’s a worthwhile discussion.
The only study I’m aware of directly applying keto to ADHD is one on dogs, strangely enough. Published in 2016, researchers found that placing dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy on a keto-style diet for 3 months helped to significantly reduce ADHD-related behaviors. Back in the human arena, there’s of course a trove of research demonstrating the impressive results ketogenic diets can have on conditions like bipolar mood disorders, Parkinson’s disease, MS, traumatic brain injury, and others.
It doesn’t take much of a leap to establish a possible positive connection between going occasionally keto and improving certain ADHD symptoms, especially those associated with focus and concentration. Once again, this will be an individual process, and not everyone will respond favorably to a ketogenic diet. With kids, in particular, consult your doctor, but for adults and older teens give it a go and see how your body responds.
Finally, I’ll add that there are plenty more suggested strategies and therapies I haven’t yet touched upon, and research continues to highlight new prospects.
In the meantime, it’s all about safe experimentation. No one practitioner or coach is ever going to have all the answers, so it’s up to each of us to do the research, think critically, and assemble what works for us or our loved ones.
Thanks for reading everyone. Be sure to post your thoughts, suggestions and questions in the comments below.
0 notes
cristinajourdanqp · 7 years
Text
Alternative Therapies For ADHD: Part 2
With 6.1 million children in this country bearing a past or present ADHD diagnosis, it’s little wonder folks had a lot to say in the initial post I did on the subject a few months back.  For the most part, people were pumped to discover new potential therapies for themselves or loved ones, or at the very least to find validation in their own hunt for side effect free ADHD treatment. Others questioned the validity of certain alternative approaches, and still more posed questions about other treatments they’d heard about or were interested in.
Is there any substance to the other alternative therapies I added in passing within that previous post? What else shows promise? Let’s dig in….
Neurofeedback Strategies
Many of those seeking other answers to the ADHD question have probably heard mention of neurofeedback, which continues as a debated prospect. As far back as the 1930s, the EEG was being used to condition certain parts of the brain and teach “voluntary control” over a person’s alpha blocking response. In essence, this neurofeedback therapy is intended to enable a person with ADHD to regulate their brain activity, thereby enhancing concentration and moderating behavioral difficulties.
For the most part, controversy surrounding neurofeedback strategies for ADHD has stemmed from a high degree of heterogeneity amongst study approaches, with a definite lack of standardized protocols. Despite this, however, there has been an overwhelmingly positive flood of results from neurofeedback studies through the years, with a 2009 meta-analysis showing substantial impact for inattention and impulsivity, and lesser but still substantive effects for hyperactivity.
A more recent literature review suggests that while certain previous studies may have had overinflated results, trials that followed standardized protocols have reported statistically significant and reliable results in treatment of ADHD. Thus, while neurofeedback therapies aren’t universally successful, they’re definitely worth looking into.
Acupuncture
Skim the literature for recent research on acupuncture therapies for ADHD, and you’ll find that most applicable studies have used acupuncture in conjunction with common pharma treatments. This in itself doesn’t reduce the value of the studies, as complementary therapies are often far more effective than standalone ones; however, it does muddy the waters a little in terms of standardizing results.
A Chinese study published in 2015 divided 120 participants into two groups: one receiving acupuncture and psychological therapy, and another receiving methylphenidate. After 12 weeks of therapy, the acupuncture group had significantly better hyperactivity scores than the drug group. In the same year, an Iranian team of researchers showed that just 12 acupuncture sessions in a small group of children already on methylphenidate could improve ADHD symptoms by 23-72%. Because of the small cohort, however, and the lack of control, the results should obviously be taken with a grain of salt.
Finally, a 2015 meta-analysis covering 13 trials and 1304 subjects concluded that acupuncture was either just as effective or superior to other treatments (pharmacotherapy or behavioral therapy) in addressing symptoms of ADHD, with the added benefit of fewer side effects.
Personally, I wouldn’t put all my eggs in the acupuncture basket, but as a complementary therapy it shows promise.
Coaching
Following my first post, someone pointed out that I’d skipped over a very valuable ADHD therapy: coaching. Everyone is different when it comes to ADHD, and what works for one invariably doesn’t work for another. Most conventional treatments, and even some of the more alternative ones, either don’t or aren’t able to account for this individuality, making the success rate very hit-and-miss. The beauty of coaching is that it’s individually tailored to suit each person’s needs, and I like that there’s an element of accountability combined with a sociable face-to-face aspect that you simply don’t get with a lot of other treatments.
And when we look beyond the subjective, coaching really does work. A 2009 study of 45 adults with ADHD found that coaching had a “positive impact on the lives of people with ADHD,” while a slew of studies on ADHD college students showed that coaching helped to improve grades, boost learning, elevate self-esteem and make academic goals more attainable.
GABA
Research shows that ADHD is often associated with a deficit in Gamma-aminobutyric acid, more conveniently known as GABA. A small 2012 study used MRI to determine that children with ADHD had reduced GABA concentrations when compared to control subjects, a finding that’s mirrored in animal studies and has more recently been linked to GABAergic inhibitory neurons.
It stands to reason, then, that supplementing with GABA could improve symptoms of ADHD. Unfortunately, GABA supplementation for the treatment of ADHD isn’t well studied, and certain specialists maintain that supplemental GABA isn’t able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Then there’s the whole correlation vs. causation argument, but we won’t go into that.
In fact, I couldn’t track down a single study supporting the use of GABA for treatment of ADHD. An extensive search yielded repeated mention of a standalone study, in which a Japanese medical faculty research team used a natural form of GABA to elicit higher test success rates in students; however, the study itself remains elusive.
While anecdotal evidence suggests it might help with ADHD, I’d be inclined to wait this one out until we know more.
L-Carnitine
After the previous post, someone commented on the potential benefits of L-carnitine for ADHD. I got to digging, and while I didn’t come up with a lot, I did find preliminary research in the past two decades that shows a possible positive effect from L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) supplementation for symptoms of ADHD.
In an earlier Dutch study, 13 out of 24 boys with ADHD who received L-carnitine showed improved behavior both at home and in school. In a 2007 study, 112 ADHD children between the ages of 5 and 12 received weight-based doses of 500-1500 mg ALC twice a day for 16 weeks. While teachers didn’t notice a significant difference in inattention overall, when divided into ADHD subtype there were marked differences: ALC produced superior results in inattentive type children, while it had the opposite effect in combined type children. Clearly, ALC may work for some, but it may make the situation worse for others.
Caffeine
Following the previous post, several people noting that caffeine was actually a pretty useful tool when it comes to ADHD. One person commented that, while caffeine disrupted her sleep, it also helped to improve her focus. Another said much the same thing, pointing out that caffeine can act as a stopgap for that dopamine dis-regulation that’s so part and parcel with ADHD. And, of course, most standard medication therapies for ADHD are stimulants. 
That being said, caffeine is surely a double-edged sword. On the therapeutic side of the story, several animal studies have been published examining the role of caffeine as a less side effect-laden stimulant drug in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. A 2011 study found that 14 days of caffeine treatment in rats with induced ADHD brought on a significant improvement in attention deficit symptoms. An earlier study showed that pre-test administration of 1-10 mg/kg caffeine in spontaneously hypertensive rats (considered the genetic equivalent of ADHD humans) significantly improved spatial learning deficits.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s a lot we still don’t know about the diverse effects caffeine exerts on the human brain, particularly in the case of children. While most research suggests that caffeine is generally well tolerated in “normal” concentrations, children are increasingly being exposed to caffeine above and beyond what might be considered normal. And while a child (or even an adult, for that matter) without cognitive issues might not display any adverse side effects to caffeine, all studies agree that caffeine response is very individual-specific. In higher amounts, caffeine is infamously associated with impaired sleep—a known catalyst for worsening ADHD symptoms—and in anxious people it can dramatically increase levels of anxiety. For some, it might be worth discussing with your physician, particularly if you’re not taking other stimulant drugs or looking for a combination of strategies to get off of a stimulant prescription.
B Vitamins
One of our commenters mentioned that she recommends water soluble b-vitamin complexes as part of a healthy regime for keeping ADHD symptoms at a low level. And I’m inclined to agree that this is a good approach, knowing that many people are typically deficient in many of the b vitamins and considering the important role they play in brain development and cognitive health.
While studies that specifically address possible links between b-vitamin deficiencies and risk/severity of ADHD are thin on the ground, this 2010 paper piqued my interest. It examined the role that b vitamins play in the central nervous system, pointing out that b vitamins elicit a similar dopaminergic effect to agonists like methylphenidate. It stands to reason, then, that upping b vitamin intake (primarily through food but secondarily through a good B complex) might serve as a viable alternative (or at least complementary therapy) to side effect laden dopamine agonist drugs.
Add to the fact that supplementing with folate, B12 and B6 has been shown to limit brain atrophy and cognitive impairment, and there’s very little reason why anyone wouldn’t prioritize this group of vitamins. As always, consult the doctor first though.
Keto Diet
Someone last time noted how surprised they were that I hadn’t covered the potential benefits of ketogenic-style diets for ADHD treatment. My main reason for this was a lack of studies examining the keto-ADHD link, but it’s a worthwhile discussion.
The only study I’m aware of directly applying keto to ADHD is one on dogs, strangely enough. Published in 2016, researchers found that placing dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy on a keto-style diet for 3 months helped to significantly reduce ADHD-related behaviors. Back in the human arena, there’s of course a trove of research demonstrating the impressive results ketogenic diets can have on conditions like bipolar mood disorders, Parkinson’s disease, MS, traumatic brain injury, and others.
It doesn’t take much of a leap to establish a possible positive connection between going occasionally keto and improving certain ADHD symptoms, especially those associated with focus and concentration. Once again, this will be an individual process, and not everyone will respond favorably to a ketogenic diet. With kids, in particular, consult your doctor, but for adults and older teens give it a go and see how your body responds.
Finally, I’ll add that there are plenty more suggested strategies and therapies I haven’t yet touched upon, and research continues to highlight new prospects.
In the meantime, it’s all about safe experimentation. No one practitioner or coach is ever going to have all the answers, so it’s up to each of us to do the research, think critically, and assemble what works for us or our loved ones.
Thanks for reading everyone. Be sure to post your thoughts, suggestions and questions in the comments below.
0 notes
cynthiamwashington · 7 years
Text
Alternative Therapies For ADHD: Part 2
With 6.1 million children in this country bearing a past or present ADHD diagnosis, it’s little wonder folks had a lot to say in the initial post I did on the subject a few months back.  For the most part, people were pumped to discover new potential therapies for themselves or loved ones, or at the very least to find validation in their own hunt for side effect free ADHD treatment. Others questioned the validity of certain alternative approaches, and still more posed questions about other treatments they’d heard about or were interested in.
Is there any substance to the other alternative therapies I added in passing within that previous post? What else shows promise? Let’s dig in….
Neurofeedback Strategies
Many of those seeking other answers to the ADHD question have probably heard mention of neurofeedback, which continues as a debated prospect. As far back as the 1930s, the EEG was being used to condition certain parts of the brain and teach “voluntary control” over a person’s alpha blocking response. In essence, this neurofeedback therapy is intended to enable a person with ADHD to regulate their brain activity, thereby enhancing concentration and moderating behavioral difficulties.
For the most part, controversy surrounding neurofeedback strategies for ADHD has stemmed from a high degree of heterogeneity amongst study approaches, with a definite lack of standardized protocols. Despite this, however, there has been an overwhelmingly positive flood of results from neurofeedback studies through the years, with a 2009 meta-analysis showing substantial impact for inattention and impulsivity, and lesser but still substantive effects for hyperactivity.
A more recent literature review suggests that while certain previous studies may have had overinflated results, trials that followed standardized protocols have reported statistically significant and reliable results in treatment of ADHD. Thus, while neurofeedback therapies aren’t universally successful, they’re definitely worth looking into.
Acupuncture
Skim the literature for recent research on acupuncture therapies for ADHD, and you’ll find that most applicable studies have used acupuncture in conjunction with common pharma treatments. This in itself doesn’t reduce the value of the studies, as complementary therapies are often far more effective than standalone ones; however, it does muddy the waters a little in terms of standardizing results.
A Chinese study published in 2015 divided 120 participants into two groups: one receiving acupuncture and psychological therapy, and another receiving methylphenidate. After 12 weeks of therapy, the acupuncture group had significantly better hyperactivity scores than the drug group. In the same year, an Iranian team of researchers showed that just 12 acupuncture sessions in a small group of children already on methylphenidate could improve ADHD symptoms by 23-72%. Because of the small cohort, however, and the lack of control, the results should obviously be taken with a grain of salt.
Finally, a 2015 meta-analysis covering 13 trials and 1304 subjects concluded that acupuncture was either just as effective or superior to other treatments (pharmacotherapy or behavioral therapy) in addressing symptoms of ADHD, with the added benefit of fewer side effects.
Personally, I wouldn’t put all my eggs in the acupuncture basket, but as a complementary therapy it shows promise.
Coaching
Following my first post, someone pointed out that I’d skipped over a very valuable ADHD therapy: coaching. Everyone is different when it comes to ADHD, and what works for one invariably doesn’t work for another. Most conventional treatments, and even some of the more alternative ones, either don’t or aren’t able to account for this individuality, making the success rate very hit-and-miss. The beauty of coaching is that it’s individually tailored to suit each person’s needs, and I like that there’s an element of accountability combined with a sociable face-to-face aspect that you simply don’t get with a lot of other treatments.
And when we look beyond the subjective, coaching really does work. A 2009 study of 45 adults with ADHD found that coaching had a “positive impact on the lives of people with ADHD,” while a slew of studies on ADHD college students showed that coaching helped to improve grades, boost learning, elevate self-esteem and make academic goals more attainable.
GABA
Research shows that ADHD is often associated with a deficit in Gamma-aminobutyric acid, more conveniently known as GABA. A small 2012 study used MRI to determine that children with ADHD had reduced GABA concentrations when compared to control subjects, a finding that’s mirrored in animal studies and has more recently been linked to GABAergic inhibitory neurons.
It stands to reason, then, that supplementing with GABA could improve symptoms of ADHD. Unfortunately, GABA supplementation for the treatment of ADHD isn’t well studied, and certain specialists maintain that supplemental GABA isn’t able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Then there’s the whole correlation vs. causation argument, but we won’t go into that.
In fact, I couldn’t track down a single study supporting the use of GABA for treatment of ADHD. An extensive search yielded repeated mention of a standalone study, in which a Japanese medical faculty research team used a natural form of GABA to elicit higher test success rates in students; however, the study itself remains elusive.
While anecdotal evidence suggests it might help with ADHD, I’d be inclined to wait this one out until we know more.
L-Carnitine
After the previous post, someone commented on the potential benefits of L-carnitine for ADHD. I got to digging, and while I didn’t come up with a lot, I did find preliminary research in the past two decades that shows a possible positive effect from L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) supplementation for symptoms of ADHD.
In an earlier Dutch study, 13 out of 24 boys with ADHD who received L-carnitine showed improved behavior both at home and in school. In a 2007 study, 112 ADHD children between the ages of 5 and 12 received weight-based doses of 500-1500 mg ALC twice a day for 16 weeks. While teachers didn’t notice a significant difference in inattention overall, when divided into ADHD subtype there were marked differences: ALC produced superior results in inattentive type children, while it had the opposite effect in combined type children. Clearly, ALC may work for some, but it may make the situation worse for others.
Caffeine
Following the previous post, several people noting that caffeine was actually a pretty useful tool when it comes to ADHD. One person commented that, while caffeine disrupted her sleep, it also helped to improve her focus. Another said much the same thing, pointing out that caffeine can act as a stopgap for that dopamine dis-regulation that’s so part and parcel with ADHD. And, of course, most standard medication therapies for ADHD are stimulants. 
That being said, caffeine is surely a double-edged sword. On the therapeutic side of the story, several animal studies have been published examining the role of caffeine as a less side effect-laden stimulant drug in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. A 2011 study found that 14 days of caffeine treatment in rats with induced ADHD brought on a significant improvement in attention deficit symptoms. An earlier study showed that pre-test administration of 1-10 mg/kg caffeine in spontaneously hypertensive rats (considered the genetic equivalent of ADHD humans) significantly improved spatial learning deficits.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s a lot we still don’t know about the diverse effects caffeine exerts on the human brain, particularly in the case of children. While most research suggests that caffeine is generally well tolerated in “normal” concentrations, children are increasingly being exposed to caffeine above and beyond what might be considered normal. And while a child (or even an adult, for that matter) without cognitive issues might not display any adverse side effects to caffeine, all studies agree that caffeine response is very individual-specific. In higher amounts, caffeine is infamously associated with impaired sleep—a known catalyst for worsening ADHD symptoms—and in anxious people it can dramatically increase levels of anxiety. For some, it might be worth discussing with your physician, particularly if you’re not taking other stimulant drugs or looking for a combination of strategies to get off of a stimulant prescription.
B Vitamins
One of our commenters mentioned that she recommends water soluble b-vitamin complexes as part of a healthy regime for keeping ADHD symptoms at a low level. And I’m inclined to agree that this is a good approach, knowing that many people are typically deficient in many of the b vitamins and considering the important role they play in brain development and cognitive health.
While studies that specifically address possible links between b-vitamin deficiencies and risk/severity of ADHD are thin on the ground, this 2010 paper piqued my interest. It examined the role that b vitamins play in the central nervous system, pointing out that b vitamins elicit a similar dopaminergic effect to agonists like methylphenidate. It stands to reason, then, that upping b vitamin intake (primarily through food but secondarily through a good B complex) might serve as a viable alternative (or at least complementary therapy) to side effect laden dopamine agonist drugs.
Add to the fact that supplementing with folate, B12 and B6 has been shown to limit brain atrophy and cognitive impairment, and there’s very little reason why anyone wouldn’t prioritize this group of vitamins. As always, consult the doctor first though.
Keto Diet
Someone last time noted how surprised they were that I hadn’t covered the potential benefits of ketogenic-style diets for ADHD treatment. My main reason for this was a lack of studies examining the keto-ADHD link, but it’s a worthwhile discussion.
The only study I’m aware of directly applying keto to ADHD is one on dogs, strangely enough. Published in 2016, researchers found that placing dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy on a keto-style diet for 3 months helped to significantly reduce ADHD-related behaviors. Back in the human arena, there’s of course a trove of research demonstrating the impressive results ketogenic diets can have on conditions like bipolar mood disorders, Parkinson’s disease, MS, traumatic brain injury, and others.
It doesn’t take much of a leap to establish a possible positive connection between going occasionally keto and improving certain ADHD symptoms, especially those associated with focus and concentration. Once again, this will be an individual process, and not everyone will respond favorably to a ketogenic diet. With kids, in particular, consult your doctor, but for adults and older teens give it a go and see how your body responds.
Finally, I’ll add that there are plenty more suggested strategies and therapies I haven’t yet touched upon, and research continues to highlight new prospects.
In the meantime, it’s all about safe experimentation. No one practitioner or coach is ever going to have all the answers, so it’s up to each of us to do the research, think critically, and assemble what works for us or our loved ones.
Thanks for reading everyone. Be sure to post your thoughts, suggestions and questions in the comments below.
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